Periodontitis and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are chronic inflammatory diseases that share similar inflammatory mechanisms and characteristics. Programmed cell death (PCD) has recently garnered attention for its crucial role in regulating inflammation and maintaining tissue homeostasis, as well as for its potential to link these two diseases. The various forms of PCD--including apoptosis, pyroptosis, and necroptosis--are closely controlled by signaling pathways such as Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) /NF-κB and MAPK. These pathways determine cell fate and influence inflammatory responses, tissue destruction, and repair, and they both play important roles in the pathogenesis of RA and periodontitis. In periodontitis, periodontal pathogens such as Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) and its virulence factors, including lipopolysaccharide (LPS), induce pyroptosis and necroptosis in immune cells such as macrophages via the TLR4/NF-κB pathway, which leads to an excessive release of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-1β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. Concurrently, these pathogens inhibit the normal apoptotic process of immune cells, such as neutrophils, prolonging their survival, exacerbating immune imbalance, and aggravating periodontal tissue destruction. Similarly, in RA synovial tissue, fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) acquire apoptosis resistance through signaling pathways such as the Bcl-2 family, JAK/STAT, and NF-κB, allowing for the consistent proliferation and secretion of matrix metalloproteinases and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Meanwhile, the continuous activation of pyroptotic pathways in neutrophils and macrophages results in the sustained release of IL-1β, further exacerbating synovial inflammation and bone destruction. Notably, dysregulated PCD fosters inter-organ crosstalk through shared inflammatory mediators and metabolic networks. Damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) and cytokines that originate from periodontal lesions can spread systemically, influencing cell death processes in synovial and immune cells, thereby aggravating joint inflammation and bone erosion. By contrast, systemic inflammation in RA can upregulate osteoclastic activity or interfere with the normal apoptosis of periodontal cells via TNF-α and IL-6, ultimately intensifying periodontal immune imbalance. This review highlights the pivotal bridging role of PCD in the pathogenesis of both periodontitis and RA, providing a reference for therapeutic strategies that target cell death pathways to manage and potentially mitigate these diseases.

OBJECTIVE: To explore the anatomical parameters of the cervical uncinate process "inflection point" through cervical CT angiography (CTA) and MRI measurements, offering a reliable and safe anatomical landmark for anterior cervical decompression surgery. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the cervical CTA and MRI imaging data of normal adults who met the selection criteria between January 2020 and January 2024. The CTA dataset included 326 cases, with 200 males and 126 females, aged 22-55 years (mean, 46.7 years). The MRI dataset included 300 cases, with 200 males and 100 females, aged 18-55 years (mean, 43.7 years). Based on the CTA data, three-dimensional models of C ₃-C ₇ were constructed, and the following measurements were obtained from the superior view: uncinate process "inflection point" to vertebral artery distance (UIVD), uncinate process tip to vertebral artery distance (UTVD), uncinate process "inflection point" to "inflection point" distance (UID), uncinate process long-axis to sagittal angle (ULSA), and uncinate process "inflection point" to transverse foramen-sagittal angle (UITSA). From the anterior view, the anterior uncinate process to sagittal angle (AUSA) was measured. From the posterior view, the posterior uncinate process to sagittal angle (PUSA) was measured. Based on the MRI data, uncinate process "inflection point" to dural sac distance (UIDD) and dural sac width (DSW) were measured. The trends in measurement parameters of C ₃-C ₇ were observed, and the differences in measurement parameters between genders and between the left and right sides of the same segment were compared, as well as the difference in UID and DSW within the same segment was compared. RESULTS: The measurement parameters from C ₃ to C ₇ in the CTA data showed a general increasing trend, with no significant difference between the left and right sides within the same segment ( P>0.05). The UIVD, UTVD, and UID were greater in males than in females, with significant differences observed in the UIVD and UTVD at C ₃ and C ₆ and UID at C ₃, C ₆, and C ₇ ( P<0.05). The MRI measured DSW showed a general increasing trend from C ₃ to C ₇, and the DSW at C ₆ was greater in females than in males, with a significant difference ( P<0.05). The UIDD showed a gradual decreasing trend, with the smallest value at C ₆. There was no significant difference between males and females or between the left and right sides within the same segment ( P>0.05). The UID was greater than the DSW at C ₃-C ₇, and the differences were significant ( P<0.05). CONCLUSION The uncinate process "inflection point" is a constant anatomical structure located at the anteromedial aspect of the uncinate process tip and laterally to the dural sac. It maintains a certain safe distance from the vertebral artery. As a decompression landmark in anterior cervical spine surgery, it not only ensures surgical safety but also guarantees complete decompression.
Humans ; Adult ; Male ; Female ; Middle Aged ; Retrospective Studies ; Cervical Vertebrae/surgery* ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Decompression, Surgical/methods* ; Young Adult ; Adolescent ; Computed Tomography Angiography ; Imaging, Three-Dimensional ; Vertebral Artery/anatomy & histology* ; Anatomic Landmarks/diagnostic imaging*

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of reducing posterior malleolar fractures via the modified Rammelt transfibular approach. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 26 patients with ankle fractures who met the selection criteria and were admitted between September 2023 and May 2024. There were 13 males and 13 females, aged from 14 to 59 years (median, 43.5 years). Causes of injury included traffic accident (1 case), falls (7 cases), and sprains (18 cases). Time from injury to operation ranged from 1 to 13 days (mean, 3.9 days). According to the Lauge-Hansen classification, there were 5 supination-external rotation type Ⅲ fractures and 21 supination-external rotation type Ⅳ fractures. According to the Bartoníček classification for posterior malleolar fractures, there were 12 type Ⅱ fractures, 10 type Ⅲ fractures, and 4 type Ⅳ fractures. During operation, the fracture was exposed via the modified Rammelt transfibular approach; then, the fracture reduction was achieved under direct vision using techniques such as towel clip traction, posterolateral compression, and lifting with a posterior transverse periosteal elevator; finally, the fracture was fixed using anteroposterior cannulated screws or Kirschner wires. The incision healing was observed after operation. At 4 months after operation, X-ray film and CT were reviewed to evaluate the quality of fracture reduction. The medial clear space, tibiofibular clear space, and the anterior/posterior tibiofibular syndesmotic distances were measured. At last follow-up, the ankle function was assessed using the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score and the range of motion. RESULTS: The marginal necrosis occurred in 2 lateral malleolar incisions, and superficial infection occurred in 1 lateral malleolar incision; the remaining incisions healed by first intention. All 26 patients were followed up 13-21 months (mean, 15.6 months). X-ray films showed that fractures in 25 patients achieved clinical union within 3-8 months (mean, 5.4 months); 1 case had delayed union of the lateral malleolus. At 4 months after operation, no significant difference was found between the injured and healthy sides in the medial clear space, tibiofibular clear space, or the anterior/posterior tibiofibular syndesmotic distances ( P>0.05). No malreduction of the posterior malleolus or the tibiofibular syndesmosis occurred. At last follow-up, the AOFAS score ranged from 80 to 100 (mean, 91.9). The range of motion ranged from 17° to 22° (mean, 21.0°) in active ankle dorsiflexion and from 40° to 49° (mean, 44.6°) in plantar flexion. Internal fixator was removed in 12 patients at 1 year after operation, with no ankle instability occurring. Ankle joint degeneration was observed in 1 patient at last follow-up. CONCLUSION The modified Rammelt transfibular approach is a safe and reliable technique. It enables precise reduction under direct vision, improves the quality of reduction for the distal tibial articular surface and the tibiofibular syndesmosis, and provides satisfactory ankle functional recovery in short-term follow-up.
Humans ; Male ; Female ; Adult ; Ankle Fractures/diagnostic imaging* ; Middle Aged ; Retrospective Studies ; Fracture Fixation, Internal/instrumentation* ; Adolescent ; Treatment Outcome ; Young Adult ; Bone Screws ; Ankle Joint/surgery* ; Fibula/surgery* ; Range of Motion, Articular

The pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is complex. It is characterized by myofibroblast hyperplasia and deposition of collagen protein. Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) is expressed in lung fibroblasts and epithelial cells, but its functions in lung homeostasis and diseases remain elusive. Here, we characterize the critical role of IDO1 in PF patients and bleomycin (BLM)-induced PF mouse models. We find that IDO1 is significantly upregulated in the fibrotic lungs of patients and mice, showing a positive correlation with genes characteristic of fibrosis. Functionally, IDO1 knockout inhibits lung fibroblast proliferation, differentiation, mitochondrial biogenesis, and mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation. Conversely, IDO1 overexpression and accumulation of kynurenine (Kyn) exacerbate progressive lung fibrosis. Mechanistically, IDO1-deletion activated profound mitochondrial fusion-enhanced potentially the capacity for fatty acid oxidation, along with activation of de novo glycolytic serine/glycine synthesis pathways and mitochondrial one-carbon metabolism. Wedelolactone (WEL), a small molecule IKK inhibitor, is found to strongly bind to IDO1 and effectively protect mice from PF in an IDO1-dependent manner. Collectively, this study characterizes a promotor role for IDO1 in PF and suggests a potential avenue of targeting IDO1 to treat lung diseases.

Cemental tear is a rare and indetectable condition unless obvious clinical signs present with the involvement of surrounding periodontal and periapical tissues. Due to its clinical manifestations similar to common dental issues, such as vertical root fracture, primary endodontic diseases, and periodontal diseases, as well as the low awareness of cemental tear for clinicians, misdiagnosis often occurs. The critical principle for cemental tear treatment is to remove torn fragments, and overlooking fragments leads to futile therapy, which could deteriorate the conditions of the affected teeth. Therefore, accurate diagnosis and subsequent appropriate interventions are vital for managing cemental tear. Novel diagnostic tools, including cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), microscopes, and enamel matrix derivatives, have improved early detection and management, enhancing tooth retention. The implementation of standardized diagnostic criteria and treatment protocols, combined with improved clinical awareness among dental professionals, serves to mitigate risks of diagnostic errors and suboptimal therapeutic interventions. This expert consensus reviewed the epidemiology, pathogenesis, potential predisposing factors, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of cemental tear, aiming to provide a clinical guideline and facilitate clinicians to have a better understanding of cemental tear.
Humans ; Dental Cementum/injuries* ; Consensus ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Cone-Beam Computed Tomography ; Tooth Fractures/therapy*

With the growing emphasis on maternal and child oral health, the significance of managing oral health across preconception, pregnancy, and infancy stages has become increasingly apparent. Oral health challenges extend beyond affecting maternal well-being, exerting profound influences on fetal and neonatal oral development as well as immune system maturation. This expert consensus paper, developed using a modified Delphi method, reviews current research and provides recommendations on maternal and child oral health management. It underscores the critical role of comprehensive oral assessments prior to conception, diligent oral health management throughout pregnancy, and meticulous oral hygiene practices during infancy. Effective strategies should be seamlessly integrated across the life course, encompassing preconception oral assessments, systematic dental care during pregnancy, and routine infant oral hygiene. Collaborative efforts among pediatric dentists, maternal and child health workers, and obstetricians are crucial to improving outcomes and fostering clinical research, contributing to evidence-based health management strategies.
Humans ; Pregnancy ; Female ; Infant ; Consensus ; Mouth Diseases/therapy* ; Pregnancy Complications/therapy* ; Oral Health ; Infant, Newborn ; Delphi Technique ; Oral Hygiene

Objective:Exploring the efficacy and safety of the combination of programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) inhibitors with chemotherapy for the treatment of local recurrence at the primary tumor site of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) following definitive chemoradiotherapy.Methods:Seventy-six patients with local recurrence at the primary tumor site of ESCC following definitive chemoradiotherapy, who were treated at the Cancer Hospital Affiliated with Nanjing Medical University from January 2019 to January 2024. All patients received treatment with a PD-1 inhibitor combined with chemotherapy, and the short-term efficacy, long-term efficacy, and adverse reactions were observed. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression models were employed to identify the factors influencing overall survival (OS) and after-recurrence survival (ARS).Results:Among the 76 patients, 7 achieved partial response, 35 had stable disease, and 34 experienced progressive disease. The objective response rate was 9.2% (7/76), and the disease control rate was 55.3% (42/76). With a median follow-up time of 23.1 months, 33 out of 76 patients died. The median survival time was 38.5 months (95% CI: 29.6-47.3 months); the 1-year, 2-year, and 3-year OS were 94.5%, 66.6%, and 51.7%, respectively. The median ARS was 14.7 months (95% CI: 10.4-19.1 months); the 6-month, 12-month, and 24-month ARS were 85.8%, 59.6%, and 25.7%, respectively. Univariate analysis showed that the initial radiation dose, the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status of patients after recurrence, the recurrence-free interval (RFI), and the approach to chemotherapy treatment following local esophageal recurrence were factors affecting OS and ARS ( P＜0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that initial radiotherapy dose ( HR=0.268, 95% CI: 0.100-0.720), the ECOG performance status after recurrence ( HR=4.106, 95% CI: 1.228-13.728), and RFI ( HR=0.248, 95% CI: 0.106-0.582) were independent prognostic factors for OS. Additionally, the initial radiation dose ( HR=0.289, 95% CI: 0.098-0.853) and the ECOG performance status after recurrence ( HR=5.143,95% CI:1.404-18.838) were independent prognostic factors for ARS. The incidence of treatment-related adverse-reactions was 85.5% (65/76). Grade 3 or higher treatment-related adverse reactions primarily included anemia in 4 cases, leukopenia in 8 cases, neutropenia in 9 cases, thrombocytopenia in 2 cases, liver function abnormalities in 4 cases, and elevated troponin T in 2 cases. There were no cases of treatment-related mortality. Conclusions:The combination of PD-1 inhibitors with chemotherapy is safe and effective for local recurrence at the primary tumor site of ESCC following definitive chemoradiotherapy and can provide survival benefits for patients. This approach can be considered as a therapeutic option for local recurrence at the primary tumor site of ESCC following definitive chemoradiotherapy.

Objective To investigate the antimicrobial resistance of clinical isolates from elderly patients(≥65 years)in major medical institutions across China.Methods Bacterial strains were isolated from elderly patients in 52 hospitals participating in the CHINET Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Program during the period from 2015 to 2021.Antimicrobial susceptibility test was carried out by disk diffusion method and automated systems according to the same CHINET protocol.The data were interpreted in accordance with the breakpoints recommended by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute(CLSI)in 2021.Results A total of 514 715 nonduplicate clinical isolates were collected from elderly patients in 52 hospitals from January 1,2015 to December 31,2021.The number of isolates accounted for 34.3％of the total number of clinical isolates from all patients.Overall,21.8％of the 514 715 strains were gram-positive bacteria,and 78.2％were gram-negative bacteria.Majority(90.9％)of the strains were isolated from inpatients.About 42.9％of the strains were isolated from respiratory specimens,and 22.9％were isolated from urine.More than half(60.7％)of the strains were isolated from male patients,and 39.3％isolated from females.About 51.1％of the strains were isolated from patients aged 65-＜75 years.The prevalence of methicillin-resistant strains(MRSA)was 38.8％in 32 190 strains of Staphylococcus aureus.No vancomycin-or linezolid-resistant strains were found.The resistance rate of E.faecalis to most antibiotics was significantly lower than that of Enterococcus faecium,but a few vancomycin-resistant strains(0.2％,1.5％)and linezolid-resistant strains(3.4％,0.3％)were found in E.faecalis and E.faecium.The prevalence of penicillin-susceptible S.pneumoniae(PSSP),penicillin-intermediate S.pneumoniae(PISP),and penicillin-resistant S.pneumoniae(PRSP)was 94.3％,4.0％,and 1.7％in nonmeningitis S.pneumoniae isolates.The resistance rates of Klebsiella spp.(Klebsiella pneumoniae 93.2％)to imipenem and meropenem were 20.9％and 22.3％,respectively.Other Enterobacterales species were highly sensitive to carbapenem antibiotics.Only 1.7％-7.8％of other Enterobacterales strains were resistant to carbapenems.The resistance rates of Acinetobacter spp.(Acinetobacter baumannii 90.6％)to imipenem and meropenem were 68.4％and 70.6％respectively,while 28.5％and 24.3％of P.aeruginosa strains were resistant to imipenem and meropenem,respectively.Conclusions The number of clinical isolates from elderly patients is increasing year by year,especially in the 65-＜75 age group.Respiratory tract isolates were more prevalent in male elderly patients,and urinary tract isolates were more prevalent in female elderly patients.Klebsiella isolates were increasingly resistant to multiple antimicrobial agents,especially carbapenems.Antimicrobial resistance surveillance is helpful for accurate empirical antimicrobial therapy in elderly patients.

BACKGROUND:Bone morphogenetic protein 2 is vital in embryonic development,bone formation,and regeneration,but its high-dose application is linked to cancer.Bone morphogenetic protein 2 osteogenic peptide L20 reduces adverse effects like cancer and boosts bone tissue regeneration.OBJECTIVE:To graft bone morphogenetic protein 2 active peptide segments onto mesopores and surfaces through a peptide mimicry strategy inspired by oysters,and explore its impact on osteogenic properties of tissue-engineered bone.METHODS:(1)Mesoporous bioactive glass was synthesized using a template method.Bone morphogenetic protein 2 osteogenic peptide L20 was loaded onto mesoporous bioactive glass using a one-step synthesis method to characterize the morphology and in vitro sustained release properties of mesoporous active glass nanoparticles loaded with bone morphogenetic protein 2 osteogenic active peptide L20.(2)Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells were isolated and extracted from SD rats.After two generations,they were co-cultured with PBS(blank group),mesoporous bioactive glass nanoparticles(control group),and mesoporous bioactive glass nanoparticles loaded with bone morphogenetic protein 2 osteogenic active peptide L20(experimental group).Cell live/dead fluorescence staining and CCK-8 assay were used to detect cytotoxicity and cell proliferation.Scanning electron microscopy was used to observe cell adhesion.After osteogenic induction and differentiation,alkaline phosphatase staining,Alizarin red S staining,and osteogenesis-related gene expression were detected.(3)Fifteen SD rats were selected to establish bilateral femoral condyle defect models and divided into three groups using a random number table method:the blank group(n=5)was not implanted with any material;the control group(n=5)was implanted with mesoporous bioactive glass nanoparticles,and the experimental group(n=5)was implanted with mesoporous bioactive glass nanoparticles loaded with bone morphogenetic protein 2 osteogenic active peptide L20.Eight weeks after surgery,femoral Micro-CT scanning and tissue morphology observation were performed.RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:(1)Scanning electron microscopy showed that the mesoporous bioactive glass nanoparticles loaded with bone morphogenetic protein 2 osteogenic active peptide L20 were spherical and monodisperse particles.Transmission electron microscopy showed their porous structure with an average particle size of(268.10±0.58)nm,which could release L20 in vitro.(2)Mesoporous bioglass nanoparticles loaded with bone morphogenetic protein 2 osteogenic active peptide L20 were non-cytotoxic and could promote the proliferation and adhesion of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells.Compared with the blank group and the control group,the alkaline phosphatase activity and extracellular matrix mineralization capacity of the experimental group were increased(P<0.05),and the mRNA expression levels of alkaline phosphatase,Runx2,and osteocalcin were increased(P<0.05).(3)The results of femoral Micro-CT scanning showed that compared with the blank group and the control group,the new bone mass and bone density of the experimental group were increased(P<0.05).The results of hematoxylin-eosin and Masson staining showed that compared with the blank group and the control group,the new bone formation and collagen fibers of the experimental group were increased.(4)These findings indicate that mesoporous bioactive glass loaded with bone morphogenetic protein 2 active peptide L20 exhibits excellent biocompatibility and in vitro and in vivo osteogenic properties,promoting regeneration and repair of SD rat femoral condyle defects.

Objective:To compare and analyze the parameters of image quality of virtual mono-energetic images(VMIs)and conventional computed tomography(CT)images of dual-energy CT(DECT)imaging for the coracoclavicular ligament,and to optimize the image quality of DECT imaging for coracoclavicular ligament.Methods:The DECT image data of shoulder joints of 50 patients who received DECT scan in the First People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University were retrospectively analyzed.450 VMIs at energy levels of 40 to 120 keV were obtained through the Syngo.via VB20 workstation,and these VMIs were divided into three groups:low energy level(40,50,60 keV),medium energy level(70,80,90 keV),and high energy level(100,110,120 keV).The contrast-to-noise ratio(CNR),the direction of coracoclavicular ligament's rows,and the displayed subjective quality scores of attachment points of VMIs were compared with those of conventional CT images.The results of MRI examination were used as the"gold standard"to assess the effectiveness of VMIs in diagnosing coracoclavicular ligament injuries of patients with acromioclavicular joint dislocation.The diagnostic efficacies of VMIs'the three groups and conventional images were assessed by using receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curve.Results:The CNR values of diagonal ligament and conical ligament at 40 keV of low energy level group of VMIs for coracoclavicular ligament were respectively 14.09±3.27 and 13.9±3.06,and those of medium energy level group were respectively 11.89±4.01 and 12.17±4.08,and those of high energy level were respectively 9.69±4.25 and 9.78±4.33.The CNR value of low energy level group was significantly higher than that of medium and high energy level groups,and the differences were statistically significant(t=21.1,16.3,P<0.05),respectively.The results of ROC curve analysis indicated that the sensitivity,specificity and area under curve(AUC)value of the low energy level group were relatively higher in diagnosing coracoclavicular ligament injury,which were respectively 90.05%,91.95%and 0.965.There was high consistence in assessing coracoclavicular ligament injury between DECT's VMIs and MRI examination(Kappa=0.896).Conclusion:DECT's VMIs can better display the rows and attachment points of diagonal ligament and conical ligament,and the VMIs quality at low energy level(40 to 70 keV)is the best,which has better diagnostic efficacy in diagnosing coracoclavicular ligament injury.