ABSTRACT: Acute liver injury (ALI) is an important medical problem that requires effective therapy. Astaxanthin (AST) is a carotenoid, and the beneficial effects of astaxanthin, including anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory and anti-tumour activities, have been identified. The present study was designed to elucidate the protective effects of astaxanthin against ALI and their underlying mechanisms. RAW264.7 macrophages were treated with dimethyl sulfoxide combined with different doses of astaxanthin for 12 h. Mice were fed with or without astaxanthin for up to 7 days. LPS was administered to induce inflammation. We assessed histopathology, oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis .The results indicated that astaxanthin attenuated LPS-induced oxidative stress, inflammation and cell apoptosis both in vivo and in vitro. In vivo and in vitro experiments showed that astaxanthin down regulated the nuclear factor-kappa beta (NF-κB), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) signalling pathways, inhibiting the LPS-induced inflammatory response, oxidative stress and cell apoptosis, and alleviating LPS-induced ALI in mice.

RESUMO: A lesão hepática aguda (ALI) é um problema médico importante que requer terapia eficaz. A astaxantina (AST) é um carotenóide, e os efeitos benéficos da astaxantina, incluindo atividades antioxidantes, anti-inflamatórias e antitumorais, foram identificados. O presente estudo foi desenhado para elucidar os efeitos protetores da astaxantina contra ALI e seus mecanismos subjacentes. Macrófagos RAW264.7 foram tratados com dimetil sulfóxido combinado com diferentes doses de astaxantina por 12 h. Os camundongos foram alimentados com ou sem astaxantina por até sete dias. O LPS foi administrado para induzir a inflamação. Histopatologia, estresse oxidativo, inflamação e apoptose foram avaliados. Os resultados indicaram que a astaxantina atenuou o estresse oxidativo induzido por LPS, inflamação e apoptose celular in vivo e in vitro. Experimentos in vivo e in vitro mostraram que a astaxantina regulou negativamente as vias de sinalização do fator nuclear-kappa beta (NF-κB), fator nuclear 2 relacionado ao eritróide 2 (Nrf2) e domínio de pirina da família NLR contendo 3 (NLRP3), inibindo o LPS- resposta inflamatória induzida, estresse oxidativo e apoptose celular e alívio da ALI induzida por LPS em camundongos.

Abstract Introduction: Propofol is a widely used anesthetic and its dose is closely related to aging. Telomere length (TL) is a unique heritable trait, and emerging as a biomarker of aging, health and disease. Telomerase RNA component (TERC) plays an important role in maintaining TL. We proposed a hypothesis that propofol dose in general anesthesia can be predicted by measuring TL before operation, which greatly reduced the risk of anesthesia, especially the elderly. Methods: The association between the propofol dose in anesthesia induction and: TL in the DNA of peripheral blood leukocytes; body weight; sex; difference of the Bispectral Index (BIS) before and after anesthesia induction in patients was evaluated by multivariable linear regression analyses. The mutation at the 5’end or 3’end of TERC was detected. We recruited 100 patients of elective surgery. Results: We found that propofol dose in anesthesia induction was clearly correlated significantly with TL (r = 0.78, p < 0.001), body weight (r = 0.84, p = 0.004), sex (r = 0.83, p= 0.84, p = 0.004), sex (r = 0.83, p = 0.004), and difference of BIS before and after anesthesia induction (r = 0.85, p = 0.029). By comparing the absolute values of standardized regression coefficients (0.58, 0.21, 0.19, and 0.12) of the four variables, it can be seen that TL contributes the most to the propofol dose in anesthesia induction. However, the mutation at the 5’ end or 3’ end of TERC was not found. Conclusions: These findings provide preliminary evidence that the propofol dose in anesthesia induction was clearly correlated with genetically determined TL. TL may be a promising predictor of the propofol dose, which is beneficial to improve the safety of anesthesia and reduce perioperative complications.

Abstract Objective: To investigate the optimal timing of initial intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatment in Kawasaki disease (KD) patients. Methods: KD patients were classified as the early group (day 1-4), conventional group (day 5-7), conventional group (day 8-10), and late group (after day 10). Differences among the groups were analyzed by ANOVA and Chi-square analysis. Predictors of IVIG resistance and the optimal cut-off value were determined by multiple logistic regression analyses and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results: There were no significant differences in IVIG resistance among the 4 groups (p = 0.335). The sensitivity analysis also confirmed no difference in the IVIG resistance between those who started the initial IVIG ≤ day 7 of illness and those who received IVIG >day 7 of illness (p = 0.761). In addition, patients who received IVIG administration more than 7 days from the onset had a higher proportion of coronary artery abnormalities (p = 0.034) and longer length of hospitalization (p = 0.033) than those who started IVIG administration less than 7 days. The optimal cut-off value of initial IVIG administration time for predicting IVIG resistance was >7 days, with a sensitivity of 75.25% and specificity of 82.41%. Conclusions: IVIG therapy within 7 days of illness is found to be more effective for reducing the risk of coronary artery abnormalities than those who received IVIG >day 7 of illness. IVIG treatment within the 7 days of illness seems to be the optimal therapeutic window of IVIG. However, further prospective studies with long-term follow-up are required.

Abstract Background Neuropathic pain typically refers to the pain caused by somatosensory system injury or diseases, which is usually characterized by ambulatory pain, allodynia, and hyperalgesia. Nitric oxide produced by neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) in the spinal dorsal cord might serve a predominant role in regulating the algesia of neuropathic pain. The high efficacy and safety, as well as the plausible ability in providing comfort, entitle dexmedetomidine (DEX) to an effective anesthetic adjuvant. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of DEX on the expression of nNOS in spinal dorsal cord in a rat model with chronic neuropathic pain. Methods Male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were randomly assigned into three groups: sham operation group (sham), (of the sciatic nerve) operation (CCI) group, and dexmedetomidine (DEX) group. Chronic neuropathic pain models in the CCI and DEX groups were established by sciatic nerve ligation. The thermal withdrawal latency (TWL) was measured on day 1 before operation and on day 1, 3, 7 and 14 after operation. Six animals were sacrificed after TWL measurement on day 7, and 14 days after operation, in each group, the L4–6 segment of the spinal cords was extracted for determination of nNOS expression by immunohistochemistry. Results Compared with the sham group, the TWL threshold was significantly decreased and the expression of nNOS was up-regulated after operation in the CCI and DEX groups. Compared with the CCI grou[, the TWL threshold was significantly increased and the expression of nNOS was significantly down-regulated on day 7 and 14 days after operation in the DEX group. Conclusion Down-regulated nNOS in the spinal dorsal cord is involved in the attenuation of neuropathic pain by DEX.

Resumo Antecedentes A dor neuropática refere-se tipicamente à dor causada por lesões ou doenças do sistema somatossensorial. De modo geral, é caracterizada por dor à ambulação, alodinia e hiperalgesia. O óxido nítrico produzido pela enzima óxido nítrico sintase neuronal (nNOS) na medula espinhal dorsal pode ter um papel predominante na regulação da dor neuropática. A alta eficácia e segurança, bem como a plausível capacidade de proporcionar conforto, faz com que a dexmedetomidina (DEX) seja um adjuvante anestésico eficaz. O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar o efeito da DEX na expressão de nNOS na medula espinhal dorsal em um modelo de ratos com dor neuropática crônica. Métodos Ratos Sprague Dawley (SD) machos foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em três grupos: grupo de cirurgia simulada (sham), grupo de cirurgia (do nervo ciático; CCI) e grupo dexmedetomidina (DEX). Os modelos de dor neuropática crônica nos grupos CCI e DEX foram estabelecidos por ligadura do nervo ciático. A latência de retirada térmica (TWL) foi medida no dia 1 antes da cirurgia e nos dias 1, 3, 7 e 14 após o procedimento. Seis animais de cada grupo foram eutanasiados após a medida de TWL nos dias 7 e 14 após a cirurgia e o segmento L4-6 da medula espinhal foi extraído para determinação da expressão de nNOS por imuno-histoquímica. Resultados Em comparação ao grupo sham, o limiar de TWL diminuiu significativamente e a expressão de nNOS foi regulada de maneira positiva após a cirurgia nos grupos CCI e DEX. Comparado ao grupo CCI, o limiar de TWL aumentou de forma significativa e a expressão de nNOS caiu significativamente diminuída nos dia 7 e 14 após a cirurgia no grupo DEX. Conclusão A regulação negativa de nNOS na medula espinhal dorsal está envolvida na atenuação da dor neuropática pela DEX.

RESUMO Introdução: O quadro de lesão muscular no treinamento esportivo de esqui tem aumentado gradualmente, prejudicando muito o desempenho das competições esportivas de gelo e neve. Objetivo: Estudar a lesão muscular e o movimento muscular durante o treinamento esportivo no gelo e na neve, bem como a reabilitação das lesões musculares. Métodos: Trinta esquiadores com lesão muscular no joelho foram selecionados como sujeitos e submetidos a treinamento de reabilitação por um total de 6 semanas, tendo os indicadores sido avaliados estatisticamente. Resultados: Os tipos de lesões no esqui foram principalmente tensão muscular, tensão muscular ou ligamentar e ruptura ligamentar. Os índices após o tratamento foram significativamente diferentes daqueles antes do tratamento (P < 0,05); comparado com os três programas de reabilitação, a melhora de cada índice no grupo C foi significativamente diferente da dos outros dois grupos (P < 0,05), enquanto não houve diferença significativa na melhora de cada índice entre o tratamento de treinamento isométrico multiangular no grupo A e a técnica de estimulação neuromuscular proprioceptiva no grupo B (P>0,05). Conclusão: A influência da tecnologia de treinamento de recuperação na reeducação muscular do joelho foi proposta, e foi apresentado um plano de reabilitação para a prática de esqui. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos - investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Muscle injury in ski sports training has gradually increased, greatly impairing performance in ice and snow sports competitions. Objective: To study muscle injury and muscle movement during ice and snow sports training and the rehabilitation of muscle injuries. Methods: Thirty skiers with knee muscle injuries were selected as subjects and underwent rehabilitation training for six weeks, and the indicators were statistically evaluated. Results: The ski injuries were mainly muscle strain, muscle or ligament strain, and ligament rupture. The indices after treatment were significantly different from those before treatment (P < 0.05); compared with the three rehabilitation programs, the improvement of each index in group C was significantly different from that in the other two groups (P < 0.05), while there was no significant difference in the improvement of each index between the multi-angle isometric training treatment in group A and the proprioceptive neuromuscular stimulation technique in group B (P>0.05). Conclusion: The influence of recovery training technology on knee muscle re-education was proposed, and a rehabilitation plan for skiing was presented. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment outcomes.

RESUMEN Introducción: El cuadro de lesiones musculares en el entrenamiento de los deportes de esquí ha ido aumentando progresivamente, lo que perjudica en gran medida el rendimiento en las competiciones de deportes de hielo y nieve. Objetivo: Estudiar las lesiones musculares y el movimiento muscular durante el entrenamiento de los deportes de hielo y nieve, así como la rehabilitación de las lesiones musculares. Métodos: Se seleccionaron como sujetos treinta esquiadores con lesiones musculares en la rodilla y se sometieron a un entrenamiento de rehabilitación durante un total de 6 semanas, y se evaluaron estadísticamente los indicadores. Resultados: Los tipos de lesiones de esquí fueron principalmente la distensión muscular, la distensión muscular o de ligamentos y la rotura de ligamentos. Los índices después del tratamiento fueron significativamente diferentes de los anteriores (P < 0,05); en comparación con los tres programas de rehabilitación, la mejora de cada índice en el grupo C fue significativamente diferente de la de los otros dos grupos (P < 0,05), mientras que no hubo diferencias significativas en la mejora de cada índice entre el tratamiento de entrenamiento isométrico multiángulo en el grupo A y la técnica de estimulación neuromuscular propioceptiva en el grupo B (P>0,05). Conclusión: Se propuso la influencia de la tecnología de entrenamiento de recuperación en la reeducación muscular de la rodilla y se presentó un plan de rehabilitación para el esquí. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos - investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The training should be performed according to the characteristics of basketball by establishing a scientific evaluation index system to fully exploit the potential of its players. Objective: Evaluate the index system for measuring physical training specific to basketball players. Methods: The physical training evaluation indexes of athletes were studied by checking the scientific literature and mathematical statistics, and an evaluation index for the physical training of young basketball players was designed and experimented. Results: The highest proportion of the special fitness score in athletic average was 46.25%; the proportion of the players’ general fitness score represented 15% above and 13.75% below. The specific fitness level of basketball players is mainly at the average level. Conclusion: The effects of training can be effectively evaluated by the experienced index system, and it is useful for athletes to find deficiencies, make full use of their potential, improve skills and adapt basketball tactics. It may also provide more reserve talent for professional basketball. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment outcomes.

RESUMEN Introducción: El entrenamiento debe realizarse de acuerdo con las características del baloncesto estableciendo un sistema de índices de evaluación científica para explotar plenamente el potencial de sus jugadores. Objetivo: Evaluar el sistema de índices de medición del entrenamiento físico específico para jugadores de baloncesto. Métodos: Se estudiaron los índices de evaluación del entrenamiento físico de los deportistas mediante la comprobación de la literatura científica y la estadística matemática, y se diseñó y experimentó un índice de evaluación del entrenamiento físico de los jóvenes jugadores de baloncesto. Resultados: La proporción más alta de la puntuación de la aptitud física especial en la media atlética fue del 46,25%; la proporción de la puntuación de la aptitud física general de los jugadores representó un 15% por encima y un 13,75% por debajo, el nivel de aptitud física específica de los jugadores de baloncesto está principalmente en el nivel medio. Conclusión: Los efectos del entrenamiento pueden evaluarse eficazmente mediante el sistema de índice de experiencia, y es útil para que los deportistas encuentren las deficiencias, aprovechen al máximo su propio potencial, mejoren las habilidades y adapten las tácticas de baloncesto. También puede proporcionar más talentos de reserva para el baloncesto profesional. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos - investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

RESUMO Introdução: O treinamento deve ser realizado de acordo com as características do basquetebol estabelecendo um sistema de índice de avaliação científica para explorar plenamente o potencial de seus jogadores. Objetivo: Avaliar o sistema de índices de medição do treinamento físico específico para os jogadores de basquetebol. Métodos: Os índices de avaliação do treinamento físico dos atletas foram estudados verificando a literatura científica e estatísticas matemáticas, um índice de avaliação para o treinamento físico de jovens jogadores de basquetebol foi projetado e experimentado. Resultados: A maior proporção da pontuação da aptidão física especial na média atlética foi de 46,25%; a proporção da pontuação da aptidão física geral dos jogadores representou 15% acima e 13,75% abaixo, o nível de aptidão física específica dos jogadores de basquetebol está principalmente no nível mediano. Conclusão: Os efeitos do treinamento podem ser efetivamente avaliados pelo sistema de índice experimentado, sendo útil para que os atletas possam encontrar deficiências, aproveitar plenamente seu próprio potencial, melhorar as habilidades e adaptar as táticas do basquetebol. Também poderá fornecer mais talentos de reserva para o basquetebol profissional. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos - investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

Abstract Background Early risk stratification with simple biomarkers is essential in patients with non-ST segment-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). Objective This study aimed to evaluate the association between plasma big endothelin-1 (ET-1) level and the SYNTAX score (SS) in patients with NSTEMI. Methods A total of 766 patients with NSTEMI undergoing coronary angiography were recruited. Patients were divided into three groups: low SS (≤22), intermediate SS (23-32), and high SS (>32). Spearman correlation, smooth curve fitting, logistic regression, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis were performed to evaluate the association between plasma big ET-1 level and the SS. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results There was a significant correlation between the big ET-1 and the SS (r=0.378, p<0.001). The smoothing curve indicated a positive correlation between the plasma big ET-1 level and the SS. The ROC curve analysis showed that the area under the curve was 0.695 (0.661-0.727) and the optimal cutoff of plasma big ET-1 level was 0.35pmol/l. Logistic regression showed that elevated big ET-1 was an independent predictor of intermediate-high SS in patients with NSTEMI, whether entered as a continuous variable [OR (95% CI): 1.110 (1.053-1.170), p<0.001] or as a categorical variable [OR (95% CI): 2.962 (2.073-4.233), p<0.001]. Conclusion In patients with NSTEMI, the plasma big ET-1 level was significantly correlated with the SS. Elevated plasma big ET-1 level was an independent predictor for intermediate-high SS.

Resumo Fundamento A estratificação de risco precoce com biomarcadores simples é essencial em pacientes com infarto do miocárdio sem supradesnivelamento do segmento ST (IAMSSST). Objetivo Este estudo tem o objetivo de avaliar a associação entre nível de big endotelina-1 plasmática (ET-1) e o escore SYNTAX (SS) em pacientes com IAMSSST. Métodos Foram recrutados 766 pacientes com IAMSSST que passaram por angiografia coronária. Os pacientes foram divididos em três grupos: SS baixo (≤22), SS intermediário (23-32), e SS alto (>32). A correlação de Spearman, o ajuste de curva suave, a regressão logística, e a análise de curva característica de operação do receptor (ROC) foram realizados para avaliar a associação entre o nível de big ET-1 plasmática e o SS. Um p-valor <0.05 foi considerado estatisticamente significativo. Resultados Foi identificada uma correlação significativa entre a big ET-1 e o SS (r=0,378, p<0,001). A curva suavizada indicou uma correlação positiva entre o nível de big ET-1 plasmática e o SS. A análise de curva ROC demonstrou que a área sob a curva foi de 0,695 (0,661-0,727) e o ponto de corte ideal do nível de big ET-1 plasmática foi de 0,35 pmol/l. A regressão logística demonstrou que a big ET-1 elevada era um preditor independente de SS intermediário a alto em pacientes com IAMSSST, seja como variável contínua [RC (IC 95%: 1,110 (1,053-1,170), p<0,001] ou como variável categórica [RC (IC 95%: 2,962 (2,073-4,233), p<0,001]. Conclusão Em pacientes com IAMSSST, o nível de big ET-1 plasmática estava significativamente correlacionado ao SS. O nível de big ET-1 plasmática elevado foi um preditor independente para SS intermediário a alto.

SUMMARY A 71-year-old woman with recurrent papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) was referred to our hospital. A computed tomography scan revealed extensive recurrence in the neck, invading sternocleidomastoid muscle, internal jugular vein, sternal end of the clavicle, strap muscle and skin; and lateral compartment and subclavian lymph nodes were also involved. Multiple pulmonary micrometastases also noticed. The tumor was considered unresectable; however, the patient was unwilling to accept highly invasive surgery. Therefore, we initiated neoadjuvant therapy with anlotinib, 12mg p.o. daily with a 2-week on/1-week off regimen. The tumor shrunk to resectable state after 4 cycles of treatment, and after 3 weeks of withdrawal, successful surgical resection without gross tumor residual was performed. Pathology confirmed as classic PTC harboring coexistent TERT promoter and BRAFV600E mutations by NGS. After anlotinib therapy, apoptosis induction was observed, and proliferation increased, which was due to three weeks of anlotinib withdraw. Structual recurrence was recorded at 6 months after operation due to no further treatment was taken. Our finding suggests that anlotinib could represent as a good treatment option for patients with locally advanced (with or without distant metastasis) PTC; Anlotinib treatment resulted in sufficient reduction of the tumor mass to enable total thyroidectomy and radioactive iodine treatment, providing long-term control of the disease.

Abstract Objective: To analyze the value of serum miRNA-122 expression in the diagnosis, severity, and prognosis of Acute Cerebral Infarction (ACI) and the correlation mechanism of serum miRNA-122 on the proliferation and apoptosis of vascular endothelial cells in ACI. Method: A total of 60 patients with ACI who were admitted to the emergency department of the Taizhou People’s Hospital from January 1, 2019, to December 30, 2019, and 30 healthy controls during the same period were selected. General clinical data of all patients at admission were collected. Including age, sex, medical history, and inflammatory factors (C-Reactive Protein [CRP], Interleukin-6 [IL-6], Procalcitonin [PCT], Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipid carrier protein [NGAL]). The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score at admission and short-term prognosis (the Modified Rankin Score [mRS]) score at 3 months after onset were recorded. The expression level of miRNA-122 in the serum of patients with ACI and normal controls was detected by reverse-transcription quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-QPCR), and the correlation between the expression level of miRNA-122 in the serum of patients with ACI and the level of inflammatory factors, NIHSS and mRS scores were analyzed. The expression levels of miRNA-122 in the serum of patients with ACI, normal people, and Human Umbilical cord Endothelial Cells (HUVECs) cultured in a blank control group were detected by RT-QPCR and statistically analyzed. MTT and flow cytometry was used to compare the proliferation and apoptosis of vascular endothelial cells in the miRNA-122 mimics and inhibitors transfection groups and the corresponding negative control group. The mRNA and protein levels of apoptosis-related factors Bax, Bcl-2, Caspase-3, and angiogenesis-related proteins Hes1, Notch1, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors (VEGF), and CCNG1 were detected by RT-QPCR and Western blot. Bioinformatics methods predicted CCNG1 to be the target of miRNA-122, and the direct targeting relationship between CCNG1 and miRNA-122 was verified by a dual-luciferase reporting assay. Result: Serum miRNA-122 expression in patients with ACI was significantly higher than that in healthy controls, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.929, 95% Confidence Interval of 0.875‒0.983, and an optimal cut-off value of 1.397. The expression levels of CRP, IL-6, and NGAL in patients with ACI were higher than those in healthy control groups, p < 0.05; miRNA-122 was positively correlated with CPR, IL-6, NIHSS score, and mRS score. At 48h and 72h, the proliferation rate of HUVECs cells in the miRNA-122 mimics group decreased and the apoptosis rate increased. Cell proliferation rate increased, and apoptosis rate decreased significantly in the groups transfected with miRNA-122 inhibitors. The mRNA and protein levels of pro-apoptotic factors Bax and caspase-3 were significantly increased in the miRNA-122 mimics transfection group, while those of anti-apoptotic factor Bcl-2 were significantly decreased compared to those of the control group. The expression of Bax and Caspase-3 decreased, and the expression of anti-apoptotic factor Bcl-2 increased in the transfected miRNA-122 inhibitors group. mRNA expression levels of Hes1, Notch1, VEGF, and CCNG1 in the miRNA-122 mimic transfected group were significantly decreased, while mRNA expression levels in the miRNA-122 inhibitors transfected group were significantly increased. Bioinformatics showed that there was a miRNA-122 binding site in the 3′UTR region of CCNG1, and dual luciferase assay confirmed that CCNG1 was the target of miRNA-122.

ABSTRACT Purpose: To determine the predictive value of maternal White Blood Cells (WBC), neutrophils, and C-Reactive Protein (CRP) for diagnosing Histological Chorioamnionitis (HCA) among women with Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes (PPROM) who underwent cervical cerclage. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted among women with singleton pregnancy and PPROM, who underwent cervical cerclage during 2018-2020. Results: A total of 55 eligible women were included in the final analysis, including 36 (61.02%) cases with HCA and 19 (38.98%) without HCA. Women with HCA had higher WBC count (12.31 ± 2.80) × 109/L and neutrophil count (9.67 ± 2.90)×109/L than those without HCA (10.35 ± 2.53) × 109/L and 7.82 ± 2.82 × 109/L, respectively) (both p < 0.05). The cut-off value of WBC count at 10.15×109/L was found to be the most effective in identifying HCA, with an Area Under Curve (AUC) of 0.707 (95% CI: 0.56-0.86; p = 0.012), sensitivity of 86.11%, specificity of 57.90%, Positive Predictive Value (PPV) of 79.49%, Negative Predictive Value (NPV) of 68.75%, and Youden index of 0.44. The combination of WBC + neutrophil had a slightly higher (AUC = 0.711, 95% CI: 0.57–0.86; p = 0.011), specificity (68.42%), and PPV (81.25%), but lower sensitivity (72.22%), than the WBC count alone. A cut-off value of neutrophil at 7.46 × 109/L was effective in identifying HCA, with an AUC of 0.689 (95% CI: 0.53-0.84; p = 0.022). Discussion: Combination use of WBC+neutrophil was found to be the most accurate predictor of HCA among women with PPROM after surgery of cervical cerclage.

Abstract Background Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most frequent chronic diseases with high morbidity worldwide, marked by degradation of the cartilage and bone, joint instability, stiffness, joint space stenosis and subchondral sclerosis. Due to the elusive mechanism of osteoarthritis (OA), we aimed to identify potential markers for OA and explore the molecular mechanisms underlying OA. Methods Expression profiles data of OA were collected from the Gene Expression Omnibus database to identify differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs) and differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs) in OA. Functional annotation and protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks were performed. Then, nearby DEmRNAs of DElncRNAs was obtained. Moreover, GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis of nearby DEmRNAs of DElncRNAs was performed. Finally, expression validation of selected mRNAs and lncRNAs was performed by quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. Results In total, 2080 DEmRNAs and 664 DElncRNAs were determined in OA. PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, Endocytosis and Rap1 signaling pathway were significantly enriched KEGG pathways in OA. YWHAB, HSPA8, NEDD4L and SH3KBP1 were four hub proteins in PPI network. The AC093484.4/TRPV2 interact pair may be involved in the occurrence and development of OA. Conclusion Our study identified several DEmRNAs and DElncRNAs associated with OA. The molecular characters could provide more information for further study on OA.

Abstract Objective To investigate the clinical usefulness of serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) measurement in patients with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV). Methods In this single-center retrospective study, demographic data, serum SOD levels, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C reactive protein (CRP), the Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score (BVAS), ANCA, organ involvement, and outcomes were analyzed for 152 AAV patients hospitalized in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University. Meanwhile, the serum SOD levels of 150 healthy people were collected as the control group. Results Compared to the healthy control group, serum SOD levels of the AAV group were significantly lower (P < 0.001). SOD levels of AAV patients were negatively correlated to ESR, CRP, and BVAS (ESR rho = − 0.367, P < 0.001; CRP rho = − 0.590, P < 0.001; BVAS rho = − 0.488, P < 0.001). SOD levels for the MPO-ANCA group were significantly lower than the PR3-ANCA group (P = 0.045). SOD levels for the pulmonary involvement group and the renal involvement group were significantly lower than those for the non-pulmonary involvement group and the non-renal involvement group (P = 0.006; P < 0.001, respectively). SOD levels in the death group were significantly lower than the survival group (P = 0.001). Conclusions In AAV patients, low SOD levels might indicate disease associated oxidative stress. SOD levels in AAV patients were decreased with inflammation, suggesting that SOD levels could potentially be a surrogate marker for disease activity. SOD levels in AAV patients were closely related to ANCA serology, pulmonary involvement, and renal involvement, with low SOD levels an important indicator of a poor prognosis for AAV patients.

Abstract The higher acidity in fruits compared with grapes was one of the main obstacles to producing high-quality fruit wines. In the present research, the effect of the split batch fermentation pattern on the metabolites of greengage wines was investigated. This fermentation pattern included whole fruit immersion in the sucrose and coculturing Saccharomyces bayanus Y4 with Torulaspora delbrueckii Y7. These results showed that the contents of total acidity and dominant organic acids were significantly reduced among the batches. Aliphatic compounds were decreased with the batches, while aromatic compounds that contributed to flavor improvement were increased oppositely. The acetate esters, ketones, and terpenes contents were significantly increased in the first batch of coculture. In addition, acidic stress largely affected the kinetics characteristics of greengage wine on a pilot scale. Interestingly, the increment of total acidity was closely associated with the rate of total sugar consumption, which was affected by microbial activities. The acidity content was significantly declined and distinct flavour profiles were formed in split batch and coculture fermentation of greengage wines. It provides a new avenue to enhance the flavor and quality of fruit wines. highquality high research investigated Y Y7 batches oppositely esters ketones addition scale Interestingly consumption activities

RESUMO Introdução O treinamento progressivo da força pode ajudar os atletas a melhorar seus níveis de força de maneira rápida e segura. Controlando a frequência e a amplitude das vibrações, os músculos podem produzir contrações inconscientes e voluntárias que ajudam a prevenir doenças como a osteoporose. Objetivo Explorar a alteração no desempenho esportivo ocasionado pelo treinamento progressivo da força muscular nos membros superiores dos jogadores de tênis de mesa. Métodos 12 jogadores de tênis de mesa com experiência mínima de 5 anos foram aleatoriamente divididos em grupos experimental e controle. O controle efetuou métodos tradicionais de treinamento de força enquanto o grupo experimental utilizou o método progressivo de treinamento de força dirigida, desenvolvido pela equipe de pesquisa, por nove semanas. Os testes foram realizados no equipamento ISOMED 2000 nas condições de 60°/s e 450°/s. Resultados A circunferência, força muscular e a relativa força dos membros superiores aumentaram. Houve diferença na taxa do momento de flexão máxima do cotovelo dos atletas do grupo experimental nas condições de teste de 60°/s. A 450°/s, o momento máximo de flexão do cotovelo e o momento máximo de extensão do cotovelo também mostraram uma diferença significativa (P<0,05). Conclusão O método de treinamento progressivo de força afeta significativamente o momento máximo de flexão do cotovelo e o momento máximo de extensão do cotovelo dos atletas do que os métodos tradicionais de treinamento de força. O progresso da força muscular foi notado principalmente nas articulações do cotovelo e pulso, com menor intensidade nos ombros. Nível de evidência II; Estudos Terapêuticos - Investigação de Resultados.

ABSTRACT Introduction Progressive strength training can help athletes improve their strength levels quickly and safely. By controlling the frequency and amplitude of vibrations, muscles can produce unconscious and voluntary contractions that help prevent diseases such as osteoporosis. Objective To explore the change in sports performance caused by progressive upper limb muscle strength training in table tennis players. Methods 12 table tennis players with a minimum experience of 5 years were randomly divided into experimental and control groups. The control performed traditional strength training methods while the experimental group used the progressive directed strength training method developed by the research team for nine weeks. Tests were performed on ISOMED 2000 equipment at the conditions of 60°/s and 450°/s. Results Circumference, muscle strength, and relative upper limb strength increased. In addition, a difference in the rate of the maximum elbow flexion moment of the athletes in the experimental group in the 60°/s test conditions was observed. At 450°/s, the maximum flexion and extension elbow moment showed a significant difference (P<0.05). Conclusion The progressive strength training method significantly affects the athletes’ maximum elbow flexion moment and maximum elbow extension moment than traditional strength training methods. Muscle strength progress was noted mainly in the elbow and wrist joints, with less intensity in the shoulders. Evidence Level II; Therapeutic Studies – Investigating the results.

RESUMEN Introducción El entrenamiento de fuerza progresivo puede ayudar a los atletas a mejorar sus niveles de fuerza de forma rápida y segura. Al controlar la frecuencia y la amplitud de las vibraciones, los músculos pueden producir contracciones inconscientes y voluntarias que ayudan a prevenir enfermedades como la osteoporosis. Objetivo Explorar el cambio en el rendimiento deportivo provocado por el entrenamiento progresivo de la fuerza muscular en las extremidades superiores de los jugadores de tenis de mesa. Métodos 12 jugadores de tenis de mesa con una experiencia mínima de 5 años fueron divididos aleatoriamente en grupos experimental y de control. El grupo de control realizó métodos de entrenamiento de fuerza tradicionales, mientras que el grupo experimental utilizó el método de entrenamiento de fuerza dirigido progresivo desarrollado por el equipo de investigación durante nueve semanas. Las pruebas se realizaron en el equipo ISOMED 2000 en las condiciones de 60°/s y 450°/s. Resultados La circunferencia, la fuerza muscular y la fuerza relativa de los miembros superiores aumentaron. Hubo una diferencia en la velocidad del momento de flexión máxima del codo de los atletas del grupo experimental en las condiciones de prueba de 60°/s. A 450°/s, el momento máximo de flexión del codo y el momento máximo de extensión del codo también mostraron una diferencia significativa (P<0,05). Conclusión El método de entrenamiento de fuerza progresivo afecta significativamente al momento de flexión máxima del codo de los atletas y al momento de extensión máxima del codo que los métodos tradicionales de entrenamiento de fuerza. El progreso de la fuerza muscular se observó principalmente en las articulaciones del codo y la muñeca, con menor intensidad en los hombros. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos - Investigación de resultados.

Abstract Introduction: the frail status of elderly hypertensive patients easily damages the function of many physiological systems. Objectives: we aimed to investigate the correlation between the frail status and lower extremity function of elderly hospitalized patients with hypertension. Methods: a total of 336 eligible subjects were assigned to frail, pre-frail and non-frail groups according to the “Frail” scale. Lower extremity function was assessed by the Short Physical Performance Battery including chair-sit-to-stand, three-posture balance and 6-meter gait speed tests. The influences of factors on frailty were evaluated using the Cox multivariate regression analysis. The correlation between frailty score and lower extremity function score was explored by Spearman's analysis. The values of factors for predicting frail status were analyzed by plotting receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Results: the three groups had similar age, systolic blood pressure, and nutritional, sleepiness and lower extremity function statuses (p < 0.05). Compared with the non-frail group, the lower extremity function score of the frail group was lower (p < 0.05). Age, systolic blood pressure and sleepiness status were the independent risk factors of frailty (p < 0.05), and lower extremity function parameters were independent protective factors (p < 0.05). There were negative correlations between frail status and lower extremity function parameters (p < 0.05). The area under the ROC curve was 0.850, and the optimal cutoff value was 7.80. Lower extremity function had a high value for predicting frail status. Conclusions: lower extremity function is negatively correlated with the frail status of elderly hospitalized patients with hypertension, as a protective factor of frailty, which can be used to predict frail status.

Resumen Introducción: el estado frágil de los pacientes hipertensos de edad avanzada daña fácilmente la función de muchos sistemas fisiológicos. Objetivos: nuestro objetivo fue investigar la correlación entre el estado frágil y la función muscular de pacientes ancianos hospitalizados con hipertensión. Métodos: un total de 336 sujetos elegibles fueron asignados a grupos de frágiles, pre-frágiles y no frágiles de acuerdo con la escala de fragilidad. La función muscular se evaluó mediante la batería de rendimiento físico corto, que incluye las pruebas de sentarse y levantarse de una silla, equilibrio de tres posturas y velocidad de marcha de 6 metros. Las influencias de los factores sobre la fragilidad se evaluaron mediante el análisis de regresión multivariante de Cox. La correlación entre el puntaje de fragilidad y el puntaje de función muscular se exploró con el análisis de Spearman. Los valores de los factores para predecir el estado frágil se analizaron mediante el trazado de curvas características de funcionamiento del receptor (ROC). Resultados: los tres grupos tenían edades similares y valores similares de presión arterial sistólica y estado nutricional, somnolencia y función muscular (p < 0,05). En comparación con el grupo no frágil, la puntuación de la función muscular del grupo frágil fue menor (p < 0,05). La edad, la presión arterial sistólica y el estado de somnolencia fueron los factores de riesgo independientes de fragilidad (p < 0,05), y los parámetros de función muscular fueron factores protectores independientes (p < 0,05). Hubo correlaciones negativas entre el estado frágil y los parámetros de la función muscular (p < 0,05). El área bajo la curva ROC fue de 0,850 y el valor de corte óptimo fue de 7,80. La función muscular tuvo un valor alto para predecir el estado frágil. Conclusiones: la función muscular se correlaciona negativamente con el estado frágil de los pacientes ancianos hospitalizados con hipertensión, como factor protector de la fragilidad, que se puede utilizar para predecir el estado frágil.