OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects and potential mechanism of Panax notoginseng saponins （PNS） on gastric mucosal injury and inflammatory response in rats with chronic atrophic gastritis （CAG） via the stem cell factor（SCF）/cellular tyrosine kinase receptor（c-kit） signaling pathway. METHODS Male SD rats were used to establish a CAG rat model through intragastric administration of N -methyl- N ′-nitro- N -nitrosoguanidine combined with an irregular diet. Successfully modeled rats were randomly divided into a model group， positive control-vitacoenzyme group （Positive group， 250 mg/kg）， PNS low- and high-dose groups （PNS-L and PNS-H groups， 9， 18 mg/kg）， and high-dose PNS+SCF/c-kit inhibitor group （PNS-H+ISCK03 group， 18 mg/kg+47 mg/kg）， with 8 rats in each group. Additionally， 8 healthy rats were selected as a control group. After the final administration， the activities of serum gastrin （GAS）， motilin （MTL） and pancreatic polypeptide （PP）， as well as the levels of tumor necrosis factor-α （TNF-α）， interleukin-10 （IL-10）， and IL-8 in gastric mucosal tissues， were measured in each group. Pathological changes of the gastric mucosal and ultrastructure of the epithelial cells were observed， and gastric mucosal atrophy was scored. Cell apoptosis in gastric mucosal tissues and the expressions of proliferating cell nuclear antigen （PCNA）， nuclear factor-κB p65 （NF-κB p65）， SCF and c-kit were detected. RESULTS Compared with the control group， the model group showed significantly increased inflammatory cell infiltration in the gastric mucosal， extensive epithelial cell detachment， severe ultrastructural damage， and significantly elevated or up-regulated gastric mucosal atrophy score， TNF-α and IL-8 levels in gastric mucosal， cell apoptosis rate， and NF-κB p65 protein expression. Meanwhile， serum levels of GAS and MTL， PP activity， the level of IL-10 in gastric mucosal tissue， and protein expressions of PCNA and SCF， as well as the phosphorylation level of c-kit， were significantly decreased or down-regulated （ P ＜0.05）. Compared with the model group， Positive， PNS-L and PNS-H groups exhibited markedly improved pathological changes in the gastric mucosal and significant amelioration of the quantitative indicators， with the PNS-H group showing significantly better improvement than the PNS-L group （ P ＜0.05）. However， ISCK03 significantly reversed the ameliorative effects of high-dose PNS on the above indicators in rats （ P ＜0.05）. CONCLUSIONS PNS improves gastric mucosal injury in CAG rats by reducing the inflammatory response and promoting gastric mucosal repair； these effects may be related to the activation of the SCF/c-kit signaling pathway.

[Objective] To explore the therapeutic effects of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) on dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis (UC). [Methods] C57BL/6 mice were randomly assigned to the control group, the DSS group (model) and the DSS+IVIG group (treatment). The DSS group and the DSS+IVIG group received 3% DSS in drinking water to establish the acute UC mouse model. During the experiment, the DSS+IVIG group received IVIG (1 g/kg/2d) via tail vein injection, while the DSS group received equivalent saline via tail vein injection at the same dose and frequency. The symptoms of the mice were observed, body weight changes were recorded, and the disease activity index (DAI) was calculated daily. At the end of the experiment, hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was used to observe the pathological changes and inflammatory cell infiltration of colon tissue; Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining was used to quantify the number of goblet cells; Luminex was used to detect the levels of inflammatory-related cytokines (such as TNF-α, IL-6 and MMPs) in colon; western blot and qRT-PCR were respectively used to detect the protein expression and mRNA levels of tight junction proteins (ZO-1, Occludin, Claudin-3). [Results] DSS induced weight loss, diarrhea, bloody stool, increased DAI score, and shortened colon length in mice. Compared with DSS group, after the administration of IVIG, the DAI score was significantly reduced (P<0.001), colon length was increased (P<0.001), infiltration of inflammatory cells and pathological damage were alleviated in colonic mucosa (P<0.001), the number of goblet cells were increased (P<0.05), and the levels of inflammatory-related cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, IL-6R, MMP2, MMP3 and Chitinase3like1 were decreased (all P<0.05). Western blot and qRT - PCR results showed that IVIG significantly up-regulated the protein expression of ZO-1, Occludin and claudin-3 (all P<0.05) and the mRNA levels of ZO-1 and Occludin (all P<0.05). [Conclusion] IVIG has protective effects on colitis by inhibiting the pathological release of inflammatory-related cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6 and MMPs and restoring the integrity of intestinal barrier.

Background: s/Aims: Sarcomatoid hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a rare histological subtype of HCC characterized by extremely poor prognosis; however, its molecular characterization has not been elucidated. Methods: In this study, we conducted an integrated multiomics study of whole-exome sequencing, RNA-seq, spatial transcriptome, and immunohistochemical analyses of 28 paired sarcomatoid tumor components and conventional HCC components from 10 patients with sarcomatoid HCC, in order to identify frequently altered genes, infer the tumor subclonal architectures, track the genomic evolution, and delineate the transcriptional characteristics of sarcomatoid HCCs. Results: Our results showed that the sarcomatoid HCCs had poor prognosis. The sarcomatoid tumor components and the conventional HCC components were derived from common ancestors, mostly accessing similar mutational processes. Clonal phylogenies demonstrated branched tumor evolution during sarcomatoid HCC development and progression. TP53 mutation commonly occurred at tumor initiation, whereas ARID2 mutation often occurred later. Transcriptome analyses revealed the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and hypoxic phenotype in sarcomatoid tumor components, which were confirmed by immunohistochemical staining. Moreover, we identified ARID2 mutations in 70% (7/10) of patients with sarcomatoid HCC but only 1–5% of patients with non-sarcomatoid HCC. Biofunctional investigations revealed that inactivating mutation of ARID2 contributes to HCC growth and metastasis and induces EMT in a hypoxic microenvironment. Conclusions We offer a comprehensive description of the molecular basis for sarcomatoid HCC, and identify genomic alteration (ARID2 mutation) together with the tumor microenvironment (hypoxic microenvironment), that may contribute to the formation of the sarcomatoid tumor component through EMT, leading to sarcomatoid HCC development and progression.

Background: and Purpose This study aimed to investigate the association between residual inflammatory risk (RIR) and vulnerable plaques using high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (HRMRI) in symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS). Methods: This retrospective study included 70%–99% symptomatic ICAS patients hospitalized from January 2016 to December 2022. Patients were classified into four groups based on high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C): residual cholesterol inflammatory risk (RCIR, hs-CRP ≥3 mg/L and LDL-C ≥2.6 mmol/L), RIR (hs-CRP ≥3 mg/L and LDL-C <2.6 mmol/L), residual cholesterol risk (RCR, hs-CRP <3 mg/L and LDL-C ≥2.6 mmol/L), and no residual risk (NRR, hs-CRP <3 mg/L and LDL-C <2.6 mmol/L). Vulnerable plaque features on HRMRI included positive remodeling, diffuse distribution, intraplaque hemorrhage, and strong enhancement. Results: Among 336 included patients, 21, 60, 58, and 197 were assigned to the RCIR, RIR, RCR, and NRR groups, respectively. Patients with RCIR (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 3.606; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.346–9.662; P=0.011) and RIR (aOR, 3.361; 95% CI, 1.774–6.368, P<0.001) had higher risks of strong enhancement than those with NRR. Additionally, patients with RCIR (aOR, 2.965; 95% CI, 1.060–8.297; P=0.038) were more likely to have intraplaque hemorrhage compared with those with NRR. In the sensitivity analysis, RCR (aOR, 2.595; 95% CI, 1.201–5.608; P=0.015) exhibited an additional correlation with an increased risk of intraplaque hemorrhage. Conclusion In patients with symptomatic ICAS, RIR is associated with a higher risk of intraplaque hemorrhage and strong enhancement, indicating an increased vulnerability to atherosclerotic plaques.

Colorectal cancer(CRC) is a common malignant tumor worldwide. Due to the treatment intolerance and side effects, CRC rank the top among various cancers regarding the incidence and mortality rates. Therefore, exploring new therapies is of great significance for the treatment of CRC. Aerobic glycolysis(AEG) plays an important role in the microenvironment formation, proliferation, metastasis, and recurrence of CRC and other tumor cells. It has been confirmed that intervening in the AEG pathway can effectively curb CRC. The active ingredients and compound prescriptions of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) can effectively inhibit the proliferation, metastasis, and drug resistance and regulate the apoptosis of tumor cells by modulating AEG-associated transport proteins [eg, glucose transporters(GLUT)], key enzymes [hexokinase(HK) and phosphofructokinase(PFK)], key genes [hypoxia-inducible factor 1(HIF-1) and oncogene(c-Myc)], and signaling pathways(MET/PI3K/Akt/mTOR). Accordingly, they can treat CRC, reduce the recurrence, and improve the prognosis of CRC. Although AEG plays a key role in the development and progression of CRC, the specific mechanisms are not yet fully understood. Therefore, this article delves into the intrinsic connection of the targets and mechanisms of the AEG pathway with CRC from the perspective of tumor cell glycolysis and explores how active ingredients(oxymatrine, kaempferol, and dioscin) and compound prescriptions(Quxie Capsules, Jiedu Sangen Decoction, and Xianlian Jiedu Prescription) of TCM treat CRC by intervening in the AEG pathway. Additionally, this article explores the shortcomings in the current research, aiming to provide reliable targets and a theoretical basis for treating CRC with TCM.
Humans ; Colorectal Neoplasms/genetics* ; Drugs, Chinese Herbal/therapeutic use* ; Glycolysis/drug effects* ; Animals ; Medicine, Chinese Traditional ; Signal Transduction/drug effects*

OBJECTIVE: To explore clinical efficacy of vancomycin-loaded antibiotic bone cement combined with induced membrane grafting for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers(DFU). METHODS: Totally 68 DFU patients treated with bone cement combined with induced membrane grafting from November 2019 to November 2021 were retrospectively analyzed, including 37 males and 31 females, aged from 51 to 79 years old with an average of (63.63±7.85) years old;47 patients on the right side and 21 patients on the left side;28 patients with grade 2, 31 patients with were grade 3, and 9 patients with grade 4 according to Wagner's grades;the diameter of the wound ranged from 20.40 to 96.99 mm with an average of (59.67±23.26) mm. The time of wound healing, the number of operations, the survival of postoperative skin grafting, the number of postoperative recurrence and the rate of amputation were observed. RESULTS: All 68 patients were followed up for 12 to 18 months with an average of (15.06±2.12) months. The wound healing time ranged from 42 to 65 d with an average of (51.50±7.24) d, the numbers of operation ranged from 2 to 3 with an average of (2.25±0.44) times. All skin grafts were survived well after operation, without recurrence and amputation cases. CONCLUSION Vancomycin-containing antibiotic bone cement combined with induced membrane grafting is effective in treating DFU, and the operation is simple and reliable.
Humans ; Male ; Female ; Middle Aged ; Vancomycin/therapeutic use* ; Bone Cements/therapeutic use* ; Aged ; Diabetic Foot/therapy* ; Skin Transplantation ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use* ; Retrospective Studies ; Wound Healing/drug effects*

Icariin is a pure compound derived from Epimedium brevicornu Maxim, and it helps the regulation of male reproduction. Nevertheless, the role and underlying mechanisms of Icariin in mediating male germ cell development remain to be clarified. Here, we have demonstrated that Icariin promoted proliferation and DNA synthesis of mouse spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). Furthermore, surface plasmon resonance iron (SPRi) and molecular docking (MOE) assays revealed that phosphodiesterase 5A (PDE5A) was an important target of Icariin in mouse SSCs. Mechanically, Icariin decreased the expression level of PDE5A. Interestingly, hydrogen peroxides (H 2 O 2 ) enhanced the expression level of phosphorylation H2A.X (p-H2A.X), whereas Icariin diminished the expression level of p-H2A.X and DNA damage caused by H 2 O 2 in mouse SSCs. Finally, our in vivo animal study indicated that Icariin protected male reproduction. Collectively, these results implicate that Icariin targets PDE5A to regulate mouse SSC viability and DNA damage and improves male reproductive capacity. This study thus sheds new insights into molecular mechanisms underlying the fate decisions of mammalian SSCs and offers a scientific basis for the clinical application of Icariin in male reproduction.
Male ; Animals ; Flavonoids/pharmacology* ; Mice ; Cyclic Nucleotide Phosphodiesterases, Type 5/drug effects* ; DNA Damage/drug effects* ; Cell Survival/drug effects* ; Cell Proliferation/drug effects* ; Spermatogonia/drug effects* ; Reproduction/drug effects* ; Adult Germline Stem Cells/metabolism* ; DNA Replication/drug effects*

Objective： The aim of this study is to explore the predictive value of biparametric magnetic resonance imaging(bpMRI)for pelvic lymph node metastasis in prostate cancer patients with PSA≤20 μg/L and establish a nomogram. Methods： The imaging data and clinical data of 363 patients undergoing radical prostatectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection in the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University from July 2018 to December 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression were used to screen independent risk factors for pelvic lymph node metastasis in prostate cancer, and a nomogram of the clinical prediction model was established. Calibration curves were drawn to evaluate the accuracy of the model. Results： Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed extrocapusular extension (OR=8.08,95%CI=2.62－24.97, P<0.01), enlargement of pelvic lymph nodes (OR=4.45,95%CI=1.16－17.11,P=0.030), and biopsy ISUP grade(OR=1.97,95%CI=1.12－3.46, P=0.018)were independent risk factors for pelvic lymph node metastasis. The C-index of the prediction model was 0.834, which indicated that the model had a good prediction ability. The actual value of the model calibration curve and the prediction probability of the model fitted well, indicating that the model had a good accuracy. Further analysis of DCA curve showed that the model had good clinical application value when the risk threshold ranged from 0.05 to 0.70.Conclusion： For prostate cancer patients with PSA≤20 μg/L, bpMRI has a good predictive value for the pelvic lymph node metastasis of prostate cancer with extrocapusular extension, enlargement of pelvic lymph nodes and ISUP grade≥4.
Humans ; Male ; Prostatic Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging* ; Lymphatic Metastasis ; Retrospective Studies ; Nomograms ; Prostate-Specific Antigen/blood* ; Lymph Nodes/pathology* ; Pelvis ; Predictive Value of Tests ; Prostatectomy ; Lymph Node Excision ; Risk Factors ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Logistic Models ; Middle Aged ; Aged

OBJECTIVE: To compare the differences of plasma valine level between autistic and healthy children, and to explore the relationship between plasma valine level and developmental quotient in children with autism. METHODS: In this study, a total of 29 autistic children and 30 typically developing children of the same age range were recruited as the autistic group and the control group. The childhood autism rating scale (CARS) was used to assess autistic core symptoms and severity in the autistic children. Children's developmental quotient was evaluated by Gesell developmental schedules (GDS), and plasma valine level was measured by high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The correlation between plasma valine level and developmental quotient scores in the autistic group was analyzed. RESULTS: The plasma level of valine in the autism group was significantly lower than in the control group (P < 0.05). Children in the autism group got significantly lower scores in the adaption, gross motor, fine motor, language function and personal/social function subscales in GDS than in the control group (P < 0.000 1). Plasma valine level in the autism group showed significant positive correlations with scores of the fine motor (r=0.441, P < 0.05) and personal/social function (r=0.437, P < 0.05) subscales in GDS, but showed no significant correlations with scores of the adaption, gross motor and language function subscales in GDS (P>0.05). According to the criteria of CARS, children in the autism group were subdivided into the mild to moderate subgroup and the severe subgroup based on the severity of the autistic symptoms. Compared with children in the mild to moderate subgroup, children in the severe subgroup got significantly lower scores in the adaption, fine motor, language function and personal/social function subscales in GDS (P < 0.05), while there was no significant difference between the two subgroups in gross motor scores and plasma valine level (P>0.05). CONCLUSION The level of valine in plasma of autistic children is relatively lower, and there is a certain relationship between plasma valine level and the fine movement and personal/social function among children with autism.
Humans ; Autistic Disorder/physiopathology* ; Child ; Male ; Female ; Valine/blood* ; Child Development ; Child, Preschool ; Case-Control Studies

BACKGROUND: Biomarkers-based prediction of long-term risk of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is scarce. We aim to develop a risk score integrating clinical routine information (C) and plasma biomarkers (B) for predicting long-term risk of ACS patients. METHODS: We included 2729 ACS patients from the OCEA (Observation of cardiovascular events in ACS patients). The earlier admitted 1910 patients were enrolled as development cohort; and the subsequently admitted 819 subjects were treated as validation cohort. We investigated 10-year risk of cardiovascular (CV) death, myocardial infarction (MI) and all cause death in these patients. Potential variables contributing to risk of clinical events were assessed using Cox regression models and a score was derived using main part of these variables. RESULTS: During 16,110 person-years of follow-up, there were 238 CV death/MI in the development cohort. The 7 most important predictors including in the final model were NT-proBNP, D-dimer, GDF-15, peripheral artery disease (PAD), Fibrinogen, ST-segment elevated MI (STEMI), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), termed as CB-ACS score. C-index of the score for predication of cardiovascular events was 0.79 (95% CI: 0.76-0.82) in development cohort and 0.77 (95% CI: 0.76-0.78) in the validation cohort (5832 person-years of follow-up), which outperformed GRACE 2.0 and ABC-ACS risk score. The CB-ACS score was also well calibrated in development and validation cohort (Greenwood-Nam-D'Agostino: P = 0.70 and P = 0.07, respectively). CONCLUSIONS CB-ACS risk score provides a useful tool for long-term prediction of CV events in patients with ACS. This model outperforms GRACE 2.0 and ABC-ACS ischemic risk score.