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18 December 2021, Volume 25 Issue 35 Previous Issue   

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Cut-off point of visceral fat area: predicting low bone mass in women Qin Qian, Yang Yang, Chen Jingfeng, Wang Shoujun, Ding Suying 2021, 25 (35):  5577-5581.  doi: 10.12307/2021.283 Abstract ( 659 )   PDF (626KB) ( 132 )   Save BACKGROUND: In recent years, concerns have been paid to the relationship between obesity, especially abdominal obesity, and bone mineral density. Studies have concluded that visceral fat area is a risk factor for reducing bone mineral density. There are also some studies suggesting an interaction between age, visceral fat area and bone mineral density. OBJECTIVE: To explore the correlation between body composition and bone mineral density, and to predict the risk cut-off point of visceral fat area for low bone mass. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed visceral fat area and bone mineral density measured by quantitative CT and bioelectrical impedance analysis in the Health Management Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University. Pearson correlation and multivariate linear regression analyses were used to analyze the correlation between body composition and bone mineral density, and multivariate Logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the correlation between body composition and low bone mass. Receiver characteristic operator curve was plotted to determine the cut-off point value of visceral fat area that predicts low bone mass. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: With the increase of age, bone mineral density gradually decreased, visceral fat area gradually increased, and basal metabolic rate gradually decreased. Multivariate linear regression analysis showed that age and visceral fat area were negatively correlated with bone mineral density. Multivariate Logistic regression analysis indicated that the visceral fat area of postmenopausal women was related to low bone mass. The cut-off point value of visceral fat area under receiver characteristic operator curve predicting low bone mass and osteoporosis in postmenopausal women was 117.85 cm2. In addition to age, visceral fat area is a risk factor for predicting osteoporosis. In order to reduce the incidence of osteoporosis and the medical and economic burden, we should strengthen the management of fat reduction in early-stage postmenopausal women.  Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Influence of taekwondo competition on cortical thickness in the calcaneus and stress distribution in the trabecular bone Xu Guanghua, Liu Hongyu, Zhang Lifu, Xie Shaoming, Deng Kun, Zhao Changyi 2021, 25 (35):  5582-5587.  doi: 10.12307/2021.284 Abstract ( 629 )   PDF (1122KB) ( 165 )   Save BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that long-term high-impact exercise stress can cause adaptive changes in the bones, which have certain effects on cortical bone thickness and trabecular bone density in athletes. Calcaneus bone density is often used as a basis for judging changes in bone mass. OBJECTIVE: To measure the cortical thickness of the calcaneus and trabecular bone density and distribution trend in Taekwondo athletes, in order to provide reference for research on foot functional anatomy, imaging anatomy, foot movement biomechanics and ankle surgery.  METHODS: Ten high-level Taekwondo athletes were enrolled as experimental group and nine ordinary sports enthusiasts as control group. The subjects in the two groups were all male, and there were no significant differences in height, weight and age. GE64-slice spiral CT was used to scan the subjects’ feet on both sides, and Mimics 21.0 software was used to measure the cortical thickness of the calcaneal tubercle, lateral process, and medial process as well as trabecular bone density. The length, width and height of the trabecular bone in the sagittal, horizontal and coronal image windows were measured.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The thickness of the left and right calcaneal tuberosity and medial process in the experimental group was greater than that in the control group (P < 0.05). In the experimental group, the thickness of the cortical bone of the left lateral process, medial process and calcaneal tubercle was greater than that of the right lateral process, medial process and calcaneal tubercle (P < 0.05). The bone mineral density of the left and right lateral calcaneus and medial process of the experimental group was higher than that of the control group (P < 0.01). The length, width and height of the trabecula of the left and right calcaneus (sagittal, horizontal and coronal planes) in the experimental group were larger than those in the control group (P < 0.05). Taekwondo strikes and jumps produce the stress and traction of the Achilles tendon and plantar muscle ligament, which can increase the cortical thickness of the calcaneus, increase the density of the trabecular bone, and change the shape of the trabecular bone, manifested by the increase in trabecular length, width and height, indicating that the cortical bone and trabecular bone of the calcaneus at force part have undergone adaptive changes, and the left and right feet have changed. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Different concentrations of platelet rich plasma in the repair of cartilage defects in rabbits with knee osteoarthritis Fang Xin, Guo Jinming, Liu Pinduan 2021, 25 (35):  5588-5593.  doi: 10.12307/2021.285 Abstract ( 543 )   PDF (889KB) ( 339 )   Save BACKGROUND: Both in vivo and in vitro studies have shown that platelet-rich plasma plays an important role in promoting chondrocyte proliferation and tissue regeneration and repair. However, little is reported on the repair of cartilage defects with different concentrations of platelet-rich plasma in rabbits with knee osteoarthritis. OBJECTIVE: To compare the different concentrations of platelet rich plasma in the repair of cartilage defects in rabbits with knee osteoarthritis, so as to provide theoretical basis and options for the clinical treatment of cartilage defects in knee osteoarthritis. METHODS: A total of 50 healthy New Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into blank group, model group, low concentration, medium concentration and high concentration groups of platelet-rich plasma with 10 rabbits in each group. Platelet-rich plasma was prepared by secondary centrifugation. An osteoarthritis model of rabbit knee was made by improved Hulth method in each group except for the blank group. In the model group, 0.3 mL of normal saline was injected into the articular cavity, while in the low, medium and high concentration groups, (1.0-1.2)×1012/L, (1.5-1.7)×1012/L, and (2.0-2.2)×1012/L platelet-rich plasma was injected respectively. The expression of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β and interleukin-6 in the synovial fluid was detected by ELISA, and the histological changes of different concentrations of platelet-rich plasma were evaluated by hematoxylin-eosin staining, toluidine blue staining and Mankin’s pathological score. Western blot and RT-PCR were used to detect the protein and mRNA levels of type II collagen and aggrecan. The study protocol was approved by the Experimental Animal Ethics Committee of China Medical University. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the model group, the levels of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β and interleukin-6 in the low, middle and high concentration groups decreased to some extent (P < 0.05), the expression levels of these indicators in the middle concentration group were lower than those in the low concentration group and high concentration group (P < 0.05). Hematoxylin-eosin and toluidine blue staining results showed that chondrocytes in the low and high concentration groups were relatively regular in shape and the cell number increased. Chondrocytes in the medium concentration group were arranged neatly, with formation of cartilage-like cells, and a remarkable effect was found in the repair of chondrocytes. Mankin’s pathological scores were highest in the model group, followed by the low and high concentration groups, and lowest in the middle concentration group. Western blot and RT-PCR results showed that compared with the model group, the expression of type II collagen and aggrecan protein and mRNA in cartilage tissues were significantly increased in low, medium, and high concentration groups (P < 0.05). To conclude, different concentrations of platelet-rich plasma can effectively resist the expression of inflammatory factors involved in the process of knee osteoarthritis and has a significant effect on the repair of cartilage defects in knee osteoarthritis, and (1.5-1.7)×1012/L platelet-rich plasma has better effects. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effect of serum containing Bushen Tiaogan prescription on interleukin-1beta-induced chondrocyte apoptosis Fan Shuai, Lin Jiebin, Wu Chunfei, Xu Zhaohui 2021, 25 (35):  5594-5598.  doi: 10.12307/2021.286 Abstract ( 573 )   PDF (941KB) ( 246 )   Save BACKGROUND: Previous studies have found that Bushen Tiaogan prescription can significantly improve the symptoms of osteoarthritis, with a positive clinical effect, but there is still a lack of relevant experimental evidence. OBJECTIVE: To explore the effect of serum containing Bushen Tiaogan prescription on interleukin (IL)-1β-induced chondrocyte apoptosis and its molecular mechanism.  METHODS: Passage 3 chondrocytes from rats were randomly divided into four groups: PBS group (control group), 10 μg/L IL-1β group, 10 μg/L IL-1β+5% Bushen Tiaogan prescription group, 10 μg/L IL-1β+10% Bushen Tiaogan prescription group, in which chondrocytes were treated for 24 hours. Flow cytometry was used to detect cell apoptosis, and western blot was used to analyze the expression levels of SOX9, NF-κB P65 and p-NF-κB P65 proteins. An approval was obtained from the Animal Experimental Ethics Committee of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the control group, IL-1β induced chondrocyte apoptosis (P < 0.05). Compared with the IL-1β group, the apoptosis rate of chondrocytes in the 10 μg/L IL-1β+5% Bushen Tiaogan prescription and 10 μg/L IL-1β+10% Bushen Tiaogan prescription groups significantly decreased in a dose-dependent manner (P < 0.05). Compared with the control group, the expression of SOX9 in the IL-1β group was significantly lower than that of the control group (P < 0.05), and the expression of p-P65/P65 was significantly higher than that of the control group (P < 0.05). The expression of SOX9 in the        10 μg/L IL-1β+5% Bushen Tiaogan prescription and 10 μg/L IL-1β+10% Bushen Tiaogan prescription groups was significantly higher than that in the IL-1β group (P < 0.05), and the expression of p-P65/P65 in the 10 μg/L IL-1β+10% Bushen Tiaogan prescription group was significantly lower than that in the IL-1β group  (P < 0.05). To conclude, Bushen Tiaogan prescription may inhibit IL-1β-induced apoptosis of rat osteoarticular chondrocytes by regulating SOX9/NF-κB, and play a role in alleviating articular cartilage degeneration. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Inhibition of galectin-3 promotes apoptosis of cartilage endplate cells and induces intervertebral disc degeneration Liu Yanlu, Hu Wei, Aikebaier, Yiliya, Huang Yifei 2021, 25 (35):  5599-5603.  doi: 10.12307/2021.287 Abstract ( 518 )   PDF (717KB) ( 123 )   Save BACKGROUND: Cartilage endplate degeneration of the intervertebral disc destroys the integrity of the intervertebral disc and impacts the exchange of nutrition and metabolites and the metabolic balance of extracellular matrix, which is the main factor leading to intervertebral disc degeneration. Galectin-3, a member of galectin family, is expressed in various tissues and participates in the regulation of cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell adhesion and other physiological and pathological processes. However, the regulatory role of Galectin-3 in the cartilage endplate of the intervertebral disc is still unclear. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of Galectin-3 on the proliferation, apoptosis and cell cycle of rat cartilage endplate cells through the intervention of GB1107, a Galectin-3 inhibitor. METHODS: In this study, the rat cartilage endplate cells were divided into normal control group and Galectin-3 gb1107 inhibitor groups (1, 2.5, 5, 10, 25, and  50 μmol/L). MTT was used to detect the proliferation of cartilage endplate cells in each group at three time points (12, 24, 48 hours). The optimal concentration of 25 μmol/L was used for follow-up flow cytometry to detect the difference of cell apoptosis and cell cycle. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The proliferation activity of chondrocytes treated with GB1107 was concentration- and time-dependent. In the concentration range of 5-50 μmol/L, the proliferation activity of chondrocytes was significantly lower than that of the normal control group at all three observational time points (P < 0.05). At the concentration of 25 μmol/L, the apoptosis rate of cartilage endplate cells was significantly higher than that of the normal control group (P < 0.05). Under the effect of GB1107, the number of cartilage endplate cells at G1 stage was significantly lower than that in the normal control group (P < 0.05), while the cell number at G2 and S stage was significantly lower than that in the normal control group (P < 0.05). Thererfore, inhibition of Galectin-3 may inhibit the DNA replication of cartilage endplate cells to promote the apoptosis of cartilage endplate cells and lead to the destruction of cartilage endplate, thereby inducing the occurrence and development of intervertebral disc degeneration. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Application of transport distraction osteogenesis in reconstruction of mandibular segmental defects Su Chengli, Zhu Songsong, Li Yunfeng 2021, 25 (35):  5604-5609.  doi: 10.12307/2021.288 Abstract ( 556 )   PDF (3205KB) ( 134 )   Save BACKGROUND: In recent years, distraction osteogenesis has become an important alternative option to the reconstruction of mandibular segmental bone defects.  OBJECTIVE: To explore the clinical feasibility and efficiency of transport distraction osteogenesis for reconstruction of segmental mandibular bone defect and later dental implantation.  METHODS: Six patients with ameloblastoma or keratocystic odontogenic tumor were included in this study. Computed tomography and panoramic film were performed for preoperative evaluation and surgical planning. Transport distraction osteogenesis was used to reconstruct the defect after tumor resection. The fixation period after distraction varied from 16 to 25 weeks, depending on the degree of ossification in the distraction space after operation. The second operation was performed to remove the traction device and restore the gap between the delivery disc and the residual bone defect with bone graft and rigid internal fixation. Finally, the occlusal relationship was restored by dental implantation on the new bone in the distraction space.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: All patients successfully completed the whole treatment period without traction failure or tumor recurrence. The stretch length ranged from 45 to 57 mm. Satisfactory new bone formation and high calcification in the distraction space were confirmed by imaging examination and intraoperative observation. Of the six patients, one developed infection, and the symptoms were controlled by surgical dressing change; two had salivary leakage, and were cured by pressure bandaging and atropine. All patients eventually achieved satisfactory facial appearance and occlusal function. The findings of this study indicate that transport distraction osteogenesis can be used to reconstruct segmental mandibular bone defect and further used in clinical dental implant treatment, and moreover, the therapeutic effect is satisfactory.  Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Visual analysis of literature on transcranial magnetic stimulation for stroke based on Citespace knowledge map Zhang Jiaming, Tian Yanping, Zhang Yue, Zhong Dongling, Li Yuxi, Zheng Zhong, Li Juan, Jin Rongjiang 2021, 25 (35):  5610-5618.  doi: 10.12307/2021.289 Abstract ( 522 )   PDF (1896KB) ( 1841 )   Save BACKGROUND: Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) technology has been widely used in neuropsychology, rehabilitation medicine, and pediatrics, due to its advantages of painlessness, non-invasiveness, effectiveness and safety. However, there is yet no visual analysis of literature on TMS for treating stroke. OBJECTIVE: To objectively analyze global research on TMS in the treatment of stroke in recent 10 years, and summarize the recent research direction of this field and sort out the knowledge structure worldwide. METHODS: Based on the relevant literature on TMS for stroke in databases of CNKI and Web of Science, Citespace software was used to visualize the use of TMS in the treatment of stroke. The number, countries, authors, research institutions, keywords, cited references and journals of relevant literatures and funding grants were analyzed to explore the research hotspot and development trend in this field. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: A total of 1 729 articles were included in the Web of Science database. Among them, the institution with the most publications was Harvard Medical School, and the country with the most publications was the United States, followed by China. China ranks first in international fund support. The hot keywords included rehabilitation, excitability, motor cortex and etc. As described in a representative English article, TMS therapy at a frequency of 1 Hz was found to improve patients’ motor function to a greater extent. A total of 455 literatures were included in CNKI database. Among them, the institution with the most publications was the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine of Huashan Hospital affiliated to Fudan University, and the hot keywords were rehabilitation, depression, motor function, aphasia and so on. As described in a representative Chinese article, high-frequency TMS was found to be more effective than low-frequency TMS in improving post-stroke depression and daily living ability. Further analysis of the results shows that, in recent 10 years, the international research frontier and future development trend mainly focus on the mechanism of TMS on cerebral cortical motor areas and the efficacy of TMS combined with other rehabilitation therapies (motor learning and mirror therapy) in the treatment of various functional disorders after stroke. In China, the research frontier and future trend mainly focus on TMS in the treatment of post-stroke depression and motor function. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Polydatin effects on apoptosis of nucleus pulposus cells and SIRT1/mTOR pathway in mice with lumbar disc degeneration Zuo Bin, Xia Xiaofeng, Che Biao, Zou Kai, Tang Jiaguo 2021, 25 (35):  5619-5625.  doi: 10.12307/2021.290 Abstract ( 546 )   PDF (882KB) ( 253 )   Save BACKGROUND: Intervertebral disc degeneration often causes low back pain, shoulder and neck pain in the elderly, which is closely related to the apoptosis, inflammation and oxidative stress of nucleus pulposus cells in intervertebral disc degeneration. Polydatin is the main active component of Polygonum cuspidatum, which has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and other biological activities. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of polydatin on apoptosis of nucleus pulposus cells and silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway in mice with intervertebral disc degeneration.  METHODS: Primary mouse nucleus pulposus cells were isolated and cultured by trypsin. Cell identification and cytotoxicity measurement were conducted by toluidine blue staining and type II collagen immunocytochemistry staining. The nucleus pulposus cells were randomly divided into five groups: blank group, model group, low-, middle-, and high-dose polydatin groups (10, 25, and 50 mg/L). The blank group was normally cultured; in addition, the other groups were induced by interleukin-1β to build the degenerative model of nucleus pulposus cells, followed by cultured with different doses of polydatin. Cell apoptosis in each group was detected by flow cytometry. The expression levels of oxidative stress factors and inflammatory factors were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The expression levels of apoptosis related proteins and SIRT1/mTOR signaling pathway related proteins in nucleus pulposus cells were detected by western blot method. The study protocol was ethically approved by the Ethics Committee of General Hospital of the Yangtze River Shipping with an approval No. L20200059. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The nucleus pulposus cells were successfully isolated and purified by trypsin. Compared with those in the blank group, the apoptotic rate of nucleus pulposus cells, the expression of Caspase-3 and Bax proteins, the expression levels of malondialdehyde, lactate dehydrogenase, interleukin-6, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and tumor necrosis factor α were significantly higher in the model group. Compared with the model group, these indexes were significantly decreased in the polydatin groups. Compared with the blank group, the model group showed a significant reduction in the expression levels of Bcl-2 protein, superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione, SIRT1, phosphorylated PI3K/phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase, phosphorylated Akt/protein kinase B and mTOR protein (P < 0.05), and the polydatin groups had a significant increase in the above-mentioned indexes in a dose-dependent manner (P < 0.05). To conclude, polydatin can significantly reduce the apoptosis, inflammation and oxidative stress of nucleus pulposus cells induced by interleukin-1β, which may be achieved by activating the SIRT1/mTOR pathway. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effect of angiotensinogen-targeted RNA interference in spontaneously hypertensive rats Yuan Lifen, Cao Shuang, Sun Ting 2021, 25 (35):  5626-5631.  doi: 10.12307/2021.291 Abstract ( 584 )   PDF (868KB) ( 191 )   Save BACKGROUND: Recent studies have found that GPE-AGTshRNA nanocomposite cannot only have better transfection efficiency and lower cytotoxicity to hepatocytes in vitro, and also significantly reduce the expression of angiotensinogen at the gene and protein levels. OBJECTIVE: To observe the effects of angiotensinogen-targeted RNA interference on blood pressure and cardiac protection in spontaneously hypertensive rats, attempting to find a new antihypertensive strategy. METHODS: Spontaneously hypertensive rats were randomly evenly divided into gene therapy group, negative control group and blank control group, and normal Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY) were set as normal blood pressure control group (WKY group). There were nine sessions in total, with 10 days as one session. On the 1st day of each session, administration in each group was given via the rat tail vein: 500 μL of sterile water for injection in the WKY group, 500 μL of GPE-AGTshRNA nanocomplex in the gene therapy group, and 500 μL of GPE-NC shRNA nanocomplex in the negative control group, and 500 μL of sterile water in the blank control group. We used real-time PCR and western blot assay respectively to detect hepatic angiotensinogen mRNA and protein levels. The serum levels of angiotensinogen and angiotensin II were measured by ELISA. Systolic blood pressure of the tail artery was measured with tail cuff method. Ventricular function was detected by echocardiography. Myocardial lesion was observed under light microscopy. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Angiotensinogen mRNA and protein expression and serum angiotensinogen and angiotensin II levels were significantly lower in the gene therapy group than the negative and blank control groups (P < 0.01). On the 3rd day after the first injection, tail arterial pressure of rats decreased significantly by (28±4) mmHg in the gene therapy group, which was significantly different from that before treatment (P < 0.01). The parameters of left ventricular ejection fraction and left ventricular fractional shortening were significantly increased in the gene therapy group, while the thickness of the left ventricular posterior wall was significantly reduced, and cardiomyocyte hypertrophy were significantly relieved under light microscope. To conclude, angiotensinogen-targeted RNA interference can effectively control blood pressure through downregulation of angiotensinogen, and meanwhile significantly  alleviate myocardial hypertrophy and improve ventricular function. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Establishment and validation of C0-T1 finite element model of cervical vertebrae in adult rhesus monkeys Wang Xing, Xu Xuebin, Zhang Shaojie, Zheng Bingwu, Yang Xi, Wang Chaoqun, Li Ping, Ma Yuan, Li Kun, Chen Jie, Li Xiaohe, Shi Jun, Li Zhijun 2021, 25 (35):  5632-5637.  doi: 10.12307/2021.292 Abstract ( 424 )   PDF (1108KB) ( 333 )   Save BACKGROUND: Both rhesus monkeys and humans belong to primates, and their cervical vertebra structure, physiological function and living conditions are very similar to those of human beings. However, there are few studies on the finite element analysis of the whole cervical vertebra of rhesus monkeys. OBJECTIVE: To establish the C0-T1 finite element model of cervical vertebrae of adult rhesus monkeys and to make a comparative study between the finite element models of cervical vertebrae of adult rhesus monkeys and human cervical vertebrae in order to find out the difference.  METHODS: A 7-year-old adult male rhesus monkey was selected and scanned by multi-slice spiral CT in the Imaging Department of the affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University in December 2019. The original CT data of cervical vertebrae were introduced into Mimics21.0 to establish a preliminary three-dimensional model, and the geometric structure of the model was optimized by Cero to get the simulation three-dimensional model of cervical vertebrae. The assembly model was imported into Hypermesh for tetrahedral gridding to divide the tissue grids of various segments, intervertebral discs and ligaments of cervical vertebrae. Then the finite element model of cervical vertebra was constructed by Abaqus&ANSYS, and the validity was verified by referring to the relevant finite element model literature.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The three-dimensional finite element model of cervical vertebra of rhesus monkey (including C0-T1 and six intervertebral discs and related ligaments) was successfully established, with a total of 536 215 elements and 461 915 nodes. The overall simulation of the model was high, and the fine structure was restored with high precision, resulting in a high biological simulation performance. Comparing the range of motion of this model with that of human cervical vertebra model, we found that the flexion and extension of this model were smaller than those of normal adults (P < 0.05), and left and right lateral bending of C2-3, C3-4 and C6-7 segments was smaller than the range of standard deviation as reported (P < 0.05). However, axial rotation showed no significant difference as compared with the value reported previously (P > 0.05). To conclude, there is a great difference in the exercise efficiency between the finite element models of rhesus monkey cervical vertebra and human cervical vertebra, which can provide a theoretical basis for the study of rhesus monkey cervical vertebra modeling. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effect of calorie restriction and its combined exercise on fat reduction and irisin expression in obese rats  Bu Jianhua, Wang Zhen, Liu Ziming, Li Lin, Yu Liang 2021, 25 (35):  5638-5643.  doi: 10.12307/2021.293 Abstract ( 454 )   PDF (819KB) ( 146 )   Save BACKGROUND: Calorie restriction is a very effective way to reduce fat and weight, but it is unclear whether it is related to irisin. OBJECTIVE: Using calorie restriction and its combined exercise as an intervention method, to establish a high-fat diet obese rat model to explore the possible fat-reducing mechanism of calorie restriction and its combined exercise via AMPKα-PGC-1α-FNDC5 pathway.  METHODS: Sixty male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent an 8-week high-fat diet to establish an obesity model, 30 of which were randomly divided into continued high-fat diet group, calorie restriction group (70% of food intake during the modeling period was given daily), calorie restriction combined exercise group (70% of food intake during the modeling period was given daily, and aerobic treadmill exercise was performed, once a day, 6 days per week). All interventions were given for 4 weeks. Body mass and body fat content were recorded weekly, soleus muscle and fat wet weight were weighed, serum irisin level and the expression levels of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivated 1α (PGC-1α), adenosine 5-monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase α (AMPKα), p-AMPKα (Thr172), fibronectin type III domain containing protein 5 (FNDC5) in soleus muscle and p38 MAPK, and uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) protein in adipose tissue were detected. An ethics approval was obtained from the Experimental Animal Ethics Committee of Beijing Sport University. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with continued high-fat diet group, body mass, body fat and wet weight of perinephric, epididymis, and scapular fat were significantly reduced in calorie restriction group and calorie restriction combined exercise group (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the wet weight of soleus muscle among groups (P > 0.05). Serum irisin level in the calorie restriction combined exercise group was higher than that in the continued high-fat diet group (P < 0.05). Compared with the continued high-fat diet group, the expression levels of PGC-1α, AMPKα, p-AMPKα (Thr172), FNDC5 protein in soleus muscle and p38 MAPK, UCP1 in adipose tissue were significantly higher in the calorie restriction group and calorie restriction combined exercise group (P < 0.05), especially in the calorie restriction combined exercise group. To conclude, a 4-week caloric restriction can effectively reduce body mass and body fat content; calorie restriction combined with exercise shows a better effect on fat reduction and upregulate the expression of FNDC5 in skeletal muscle via AMPKα-PGC-1α pathway. FNDC5 is cut into irisin and released into the blood to promote the browning of white fat through the p38 MAPK-UCP1 pathway, which improves the efficiency of lipolysis and energy supply and reduce body fat level in the body. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha is involved in brain injury/protection in rats with acute cerebral infarction Bi Sheng, Sheng Baoying, Han Feng, Jiang Yaojia, Li Congyan, Tian Jiaying 2021, 25 (35):  5644-5649.  doi: 10.12307/2021.294 Abstract ( 436 )   PDF (1018KB) ( 420 )   Save BACKGROUND: Acute cerebral infarction indicates hypoxic-ischemic necrosis in brain tissue, which has become the first cause of death in China. Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α plays a dual role on the occurrence and development of cerebral infarction. Therefore, it is particularly important to use its inhibitor at immediate time in clinical therapy.  OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α on the regulation of brain injury/protection in rats with acute cerebral infarction. METHODS: Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into three groups: sham operation group (sham), MACO-24 h group, and MACO-72 h group. A middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model was prepared by thread embolization in the latter two groups. TTC, Nissl staining, immunohistochemical staining and western blot were used to detect infarct volume and microglia morphology in rat brain tissue, the expression levels of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α, caspase 3, interleukin-1β and p-NF-κBp65 were detected, and the secretion levels of interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α in rat peripheral blood. The study protocol was approved by the Animal Ethics Committee of the First Affiliated Hospital of Jiamusi University (approval No. JMSU-210). RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the sham group, the cerebral infarction area in the MCAO groups was significantly increased, and the brain nerve cells were seriously damaged, arranged disorderly and reduced significantly in number. However, there was no significant difference between the MCAO-24 h group and the MCAO-72 h group. Compared with the sham group, the expression levels of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α, caspase3, p-NF-κBp65, and interleukin-1β in the brain tissue of the MCAO groups were significantly increased (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). The secretion levels of interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α was significantly increased (P < 0.01) in the peripheral blood. However, compared with the MCAO-24 h group, the expression of caspase 3 in the MCAO-72 h group was significantly decreased, while the secretion of interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α increased. To conclude, hypoxia-inducible factor 1α participates in the brain injury/protection process after acute cerebral infarction, and the time target is determined as 24-72 hours after MCAO. The determination of the time target can provide a sufficient theoretical basis and therapeutic strategy for determining the optimal use time of clinical hypoxia-inducible factor-1α inhibitors.  Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effects of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors on oxidative stress related factors in a rat model of beta-amyloid 1-42 dementia Zhang Shuping, Dai Lingli, Wang Yajun, Liu Wenjuan, Huang Zuoyi 2021, 25 (35):  5650-5655.  doi: 10.12307/2021.295 Abstract ( 428 )   PDF (856KB) ( 309 )   Save BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI), an antihypertensive drug, can reduce the production of reactive oxygen species, resist oxidative stress, reduce neuronal apoptosis, and thereby alleviate the procession of Alzheimer’s disease. OBJECTIVE: To explore the effect and mechanism by which ACEI antihypertensive drugs improve learning and memory impairment after Alzheimer’s disease.  METHODS: Firstly, 48 Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into control group, model group, captopril group and donepezil hydrochloride group, 12 in each group. Secondly, rat models of Alzheimer’s disease by injected with beta-amyloid 1-42 were established except the control group injected with normal saline. Then, we offered different intervention treatments for each group and observed the general condition at 2 weeks after intervention. After modeling, the control and model groups were intragastrically given the same amount of normal saline per day; the captopril group was given 2.5 mg/kg captopril; the donepezil hydrochloride group was given 1.0 mg/kg donepezil hydrochloride. Thirdly, the Morris water maze was used to carry out directional navigation and space exploration experiments in rats, in order to explore the effects of captopril on learning and memory impairment in the rat model. In the end, the content of reactive oxygen species in the rat hippocampus was investigated by fluorescence spectrophotometry, and the expression of 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine and insulin degrading enzyme in the hippocampus was detected by immunohistochemistry. The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of Jiamusi University.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Subjective observation showed that the spirit of rats in the model group was significantly depressed and the diet was reduced after modeling; and there were no significant changes in the other three groups. For the Morris water maze test, compared with the control group, the average escape latency and swimming distance were significantly increased in the model group, while the fourth quadrant dwell time and swimming distance percentage were significantly reduced (P < 0.01). Compared with the model group, the average escape latency and swimming distance of captopril group and donepezil hydrochloride group were significantly reduced, while the fourth quadrant dwell time and swimming distance percentage were significantly increased (P < 0.01). However, there were no significant difference between the captopril group and donepezil hydrochloride group (P > 0.05). Compared with the control group, the levels of reactive oxygen species and 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine were significantly increased in the model group, and the expression of insulin degrading enzyme was significantly reduced (P < 0.01). Compared with the model group, the levels of reactive oxygen species and 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine were significantly reduced in the captopril group and donepezil hydrochloride group, and the expression of insulin degrading enzyme was significantly increased (P < 0.01). There was no significant difference between the captopril group and donepezil hydrochloride group. In conclusion, captopril can improve learning and memory impairment in Alzheimer’s disease rat models induced by beta-amyloid 1-42, and our findings also suggest the potentially beneficial effects of certain renin angiotensin aldosterone system activation in high-risk Alzheimer’s disease populations.  Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Tanshinone IIA treats vascular system injury: possible molecular mechanism and biological processes Wen Mingtao, Xu Bo, Li Jiacheng, Liu Jinbao, Li Gang 2021, 25 (35):  5656-5661.  doi: 10.12307/2021.296 Abstract ( 599 )   PDF (1177KB) ( 1873 )   Save BACKGROUND: Tanshinone IIA is one of the most abundant fat-soluble components isolated from Radix Salvia miltiorrhiza, which protects the heart and nerves, and exerts anti-cancer and antibacterial effects. There is no systematic study on the mechanism of tanshinone IIA in the treatment of vascular injury. OBJECTIVE: To explore the mechanism of tanshinone IIA in treating vascular system injury by bioinformatics and molecular docking.  METHODS: In this study, the oral bioavailability and drug-likeness of tanshinone IIA were searched by TCMSP database, and GSE85871 gene chip was downloaded from GEO database, and the differentially expressed genes were analyzed by R to obtain the potential target of tanshinone IIA. Gene ontology (GO) analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis of potential targets were carried out through DAVID6.8 database. CTD database was used to mine diseases related to tanshinone IIA, and Cytoscape was used to construct multi-target, multi-channel and multi-disease visualization network of tanshinone IIA. AutoDock Vina was used to verify the docking of proteins and small molecules.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Tanshinone IIA had an oral bioavailability value of 49.89% and a drug-likeness value of 0.4, indicating a good drug effect. A total of 132 potential targets were screened out. Among the above targets and protein-protein interaction networks, they were mainly manifested in gene co-expression and physical interaction. The biological processes and pathways of potential targets were mainly enriched in ovarian steroid production, cell cycle and steroid hormone biosynthesis, etc. Tanshinone IIA was related to the treatments for breast tumors, hypertension, atherosclerosis, glioma, vascular system damage, left ventricular hypertrophy, leukemia, and hearing loss. The molecular docking results show that tanshinone IIA had good binding activity with vascular system damage-related proteins, such as heme oxygenase 1 and secreted phosphoprotein 1. With the help of bioinformatics methods and molecular docking technology, the possible molecular mechanism and biological process of tanshinone IIA in the treatment of vascular system damage can be systematically analyzed, which lays the idea and foundation for further research.  Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Mechanism of Inulae flos in the treatment of osteoporosis: an analysis based on network pharmacology An Yang, Liao Yinan, Xie Chengxin, Li Qinglong, Huang Ge, Jin Xin, Yin Dong 2021, 25 (35):  5662-5669.  doi: 10.12307/2021.297 Abstract ( 431 )   PDF (2182KB) ( 233 )   Save BACKGROUND: The treatment of osteoporosis is a major problem that plagues the medical field. In particular, the development and application of new drugs have always been the focus of modern pharmacology and regenerative medicine. As a common medicinal herb, Inulae flos has not been studied for its value in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. The relationship between the two is analyzed from the network pharmacology level to provide a certain theoretical basis for new drug development and disease treatment. OBJECTIVE: To explore the application prospects of Inulae flos in the treatment of osteoporosis by means of network pharmacology. METHODS: The active ingredients of Inulae flos were screened by TCMSP database. The targets of active ingredients were predicted from TCMSP and Swiss Target Prediction database, and the targets of osteoporosis were predicted by GeneCards database and DrugBank database. Protein-protein interaction network analysis was conducted with String database. Cytoscape software was used to construct a protein-protein interaction network diagram and a drug-component-target-disease network diagram. David database was used for enrichment analysis. Molecular docking prediction was completed using autodock vina software. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: There were 19 effective pharmaceutical active ingredients of Inulae flos and 180 potential targets for osteoporosis treatment, such as AKT1, TP53, VEGFA. Quercetin, luteolin, and kaempferol are considered to be the key effective ingredients for the treatment of osteoporosis by Inulae flos. The results of enrichment analysis showed that the therapeutic effect of Inulae flos on osteoporosis may be related to cell proliferation and apoptosis, aging, hormone levels and hypoxic stress and other life processes, and may be directly or indirectly associated with mediating signaling pathways such as FOXO, PI3K-Akt, and hypoxia inducible factor 1. The therapeutic effect of Inulae flos on osteoporosis needs to be verified by more basic experiments. Our research provides new ideas and new methods for follow-up experiments. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Lentiviral vector overexpressing FNDC5 inhibits proliferation and migration of smooth muscle cells Wang Xiang, Wei Chaojun, Wang Yao, Pan Yujia, Liu Danan 2021, 25 (35):  5670-5675.  doi: 10.12307/2021.298 Abstract ( 565 )   PDF (890KB) ( 258 )   Save BACKGROUND: Fibronectin type III domain containing 5 (FNDC5), mainly expressed in skeletal muscle and other muscle tissues, is a muscle factor that affects the proliferation and migration of various cells through binding different receptors. OBJECTIVE: To construct the lentiviral vector overexpressing FNDC5, and to obtain the smooth muscle cell line stably transfected with FNDC5.  METHODS: The extracted C57BL/6L mouse VSMCs were identified by immunofluorescence. FNDC5 gene was amplified by PCR and was then inserted to pLVX-mCMV-ZsGreen-IRES-Puro lentiviral vector. The recombinant vector was amplified in JM109 competent cells, and after sequencing and identification, the vectors were transfected into 293T cells to produce overexpression lentiviral particles. Virus titer was then measured. The recombinant lentivirus that was transfected into smooth muscle cell line, and a fluorescence microscope was used to calculate transfection efficiency. After a stably transfected cell line with FNDC5 overexpression was screened out by puromycin, the cells were divided into blank group, empty group, and FNDC5 group. RT-PCR and western blot were used to measure the mRNA and protein expression of FNDC5, and the proliferation and migration ability of smooth muscle cells were detected by cell counting kit-8 and cell scratch test. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: A lentiviral vector with FNDC5 overexpression was successfully constructed, and a vascular smooth muscle cell line stably transfected with FNDC5 was established. The transfection efficiency of smooth muscle cells was 86%. Compared with the blank group and empty group, the FNDC5 overexpression group had a significant increase in mRNA and the protein expression of FNDC5 (P < 0.001). Compared with blank group and empty group, the cell proliferation and migration rate of FNDC5 overexpression group decreased significantly (P < 0.05). To conclude, a vascular smooth muscle cell line stably transfected with FNDC5 is established by the lentiviral vector with FNDC5 overexpression, indicating that FNDC5 can significantly inhibit the proliferation and migration of thoracic aortic smooth muscle cells. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Visual analysis of literature regarding post-stroke urinary incontinence in the past 10 years Guo Wen, Leng Jun, Liu Huimin, Zhang Chen, Fang Xiaolei, Wei Fangyue 2021, 25 (35):  5676-5681.  doi: 10.12307/2021.299 Abstract ( 458 )   PDF (833KB) ( 229 )   Save BACKGROUND: The incidence of urinary incontinence after stroke is on the rise year by year. Various treatment methods for urinary incontinence have been emerged, with a constant increase in relevant studies and literatures. However, there is no systematic review and summary on the publication status, core authors, main research institutions and research focus of the literature in this field. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the core journal literatures with respect to post-stroke urinary incontinence in the past 10 years by using the visual knowledge map analysis software Citespace, to understand its development venation, research hotspots and future trends, and to provide objective suggestions for the future development.  METHODS: A computer search of CNKI was performed for relevant literature published from 2009-2019, and finally 227 articles regarding post-stroke urinary incontinence were included for review. Target literatures were derived in Refworks format, and converted using Citespace software. An intuitive visual analysis was conducted based on mapping knowledge domains with respect to the authors, institutions, keywords, and burst terms of the included literatures. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: A total of 227 articles were included. There was a steady research development in this field in recent 10 years, and the number of literatures published in core journals was relatively balanced. There were five high-yield authors, and the main investigators were Wang Jingxin, Cai Wenzhi, Wang Juan, forming a professional research team. The main research institutions included Southern Medical University and its affiliated hospitals. There were 5 clusters of key words, such as “traditional Chinese medicine treatment” and 11 burst terms, such as “moxibustion,” with a high rate of change. The development trend of the research has been changed from clinical trials to systematic review and evidence-based medicine. To sum up, the research on post-stroke urinary incontinence has developed rapidly in the past 10 years, forming a number of core teams and research topics, which is still in the rising stage. Several measures have been expected to promote the rehabilitation of such patients and reduce the economic burden to the patients and the society, such as highly integrating superior resources from the perspective of national development strategy, promoting cooperation between different regions and institutions, and newly developing comprehensive treatment methods. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Construction of human SMARCAL11 gene over-expressed lentiviral vector and its effect on proliferation of embryonic kidney cells Shi Shujuan, Li Cheng, Qiao Lingyan, Yang Binyi, Li Tang 2021, 25 (35):  5682-5687.  doi: 10.12307/2021.300 Abstract ( 627 )   PDF (960KB) ( 442 )   Save BACKGROUND: Studies have found that SMARCAL1 is selectively expressed in a variety of cells in human developing and mature kidneys, indicating that it plays an important role in kidney development. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of SMARCAL1 overexpression on the proliferation of embryonic kidney cells. METHODS: 293T and HEK293 cells at passage 3 were selected. pHBLV-CMV-MCS-3FLAG-EF1-ZsGreen-T2A-PURO vector was used to construct lentiviral vector carrying human SMARCAL1 gene. The human SMARCAL1 gene was over-expressed using lentiviral vector and transfected into 293T cells. There were three groups: blank group untreated HEK293 cells; negative control group, in which HEK293 cells were transfected with empty virus; SMARCAL1 overexpression group, in which HEK293 cells were transfected with SMARCAL1 overexpressing virus. Stably transfected cell lines were screened using puromycin. Virus titer was determined based on the transfection rate. The stable transfection of SMARCAL1 into embryonic kidney cells was verified by quantitative real-time PCR and western blot. The effect of SMARCAL1 overexpression on the proliferation of HEK293 cells was assessed by cell counting kit-8 and EdU assays. Fluorogenic quantitative PCR was further used to evaluate the effect of SMARCAL1 overexpression on Wnt pathway.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The overexpressed SMARCAL1 plasmid gene sequence was consistent with the target gene. The titer of the SMARCAL1 overexpressed lentivirus was 1×108 TU/mL and 3×108 TU/mL for the control lentivirus. The mRNA and protein levels of SMARCAL1 in HEK293 cells were significantly increased after transfection with SMARCAL1 overexpressed lentivirus (P < 0.05). Up-regulation of SMARCAL1 expression gradually inhibited the proliferation of HEK293 cells (P < 0.05). The mRNA expression levels of CTNNB1 and WNT4 genes in the Wnt pathway were also decreased (P < 0.05). The SMARCAL1 overexpressed lentiviral vector is successfully constructed and expressed in HEK293 cells. The SMARCAL1 gene may be involved in regulating the proliferation of embryonic kidney cells through the Wnt signaling pathway and may affect the development of kidney. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Role of chondrocyte autophagy in osteoarthritis and its targeted therapy Sun Mingshuai, Fan Chongshan, Li Kaijie, Gao Ruiyong, Wang Yudong, Shen Ruixue, Wang Lihe 2021, 25 (35):  5688-5693.  doi: 10.12307/2021.301 Abstract ( 628 )   PDF (659KB) ( 573 )   Save BACKGROUND: After osteoarthritis, chondrocyte autophagy is inhibited. Autophagy is an important physiological mechanism to maintain cell homeostasis, which reduces injury of macromolecules and organelles. Improving autophagy may alleviate the progression of osteoarthritis. OBJECTIVE: To explore the mechanism of chondrocyte autophagy in osteoarthritis and the regulation of related factors in chondrocyte autophagy. METHODS: Relevant literatures were searched in PubMed, CNKI, and WanFang from January 2001 to present, using the keywords of “osteoarthritis, chondrocyte, autophagy, treatment, signaling pathways, traditional Chinese medicine, miRNA.” RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The progression of osteoarthritis is related to the changes of autophagy in chondrocytes. In the early stage of cartilage degeneration, autophagy in chondrocytes is activated to protect chondrocytes against various environmental changes. However, with the aggravation of cartilage degeneration, autophagy in chondrocytes cannot maintain, resulting in cell damage and even death. Protein kinases such as mammalian target of rapamycin, nuclear factor-κB, p53 and signaling pathways are involved in autophagy and its related processes. Rapamycin, diazoxide, resveratrol and microRNAs can increase the autophagy activity of chondrocytes, which is a feasible method to inhibit the progression of osteoarthritis. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Nrf2-ARE regulated neurovascular interaction is involved in neural repair after spinal cord injury Tan Rongbang, Wei Bo, Li Guangsheng 2021, 25 (35):  5694-5701.  doi: 10.12307/2021.302 Abstract ( 636 )   PDF (1899KB) ( 187 )   Save BACKGROUND: Neurovascular impairment is the main pathophysiological feature of spinal cord injury. Monotherapy strategy that focuses on neuroprotection or vasoprotection over the years has not made an effective breakthrough. As one of the most important antioxidant factors in vivo, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) has become a research hotspot because of its dual neurovascular protective effect, but the mechanism of Nrf2-mediating neurovascular interaction is still unclear. OBJECTIVE: To review the research progress on Nrf2-antioxidant response element (ARE) regulated neurovascular interaction in spinal cord injury. METHODS: With the key words of“nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), neurovascular unit (NVU), spinal cord injury (SCI)” in English and Chinese, respectively, PubMed, Medline, CNKI, and WanFang databases were searched for related articles published from 2001 to 2020. The literatures irrelevant to the research purpose and the repeated were excluded, and 66 eligible articles were included for review. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The structural and functional interaction between neural cells and microvascular endothelial cells exert the fundamental neurological function of the spinal cord. Recent studies have demonstrated that Nrf2-ARE not only has neuroprotective effects on neural cells but also has vasoprotective effects on microvascular endothelial cells, which is attributed to its anti-oxidative stress, anti-neuroinflammation and anti-apoptosis function, and thus it is involved in neural repair after spinal cord injury. Further research on the neurovascular protection mechanism of Nrf2 is helpful to explore new strategies for the treatment of spinal cord injury.  Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Role of calcium ions in bone repair and osteogenesis Lu Haiping, Lang Xuemei, Cao Jin, Ma Yaping, Xiao Yin, Wang Xin 2021, 25 (35):  5702-5708.  doi: 10.12307/2021.303 Abstract ( 723 )   PDF (774KB) ( 1125 )   Save BACKGROUND: Large-segmental bone defect healing still remains as a critical challenge for orthopedic surgeons. Calcium ion is not only vital for the development of bone cells, angiogenesis and release of growth factors, but also can regulate osteogenesis by affecting the structure of blood clots. OBJECTIVE: To review relevant domestic and foreign literatures, summarize the relationship between calcium ion and osteogenesis, and further understand the mechanism of calcium ion in osteogenesis, providing theoretical reference for new osteogenic strategies. METHODS: CNKI, WanFang, VIP, and PubMed databases were searched for literatures regarding osteogenic role of calcium ions published from January 2000 to January 2021. Key words were “calcium, osteogenesis, mesenchymal stem cell, osteoblasts, osteoclasts, neovascularization, blood clots” in Chinese and English, respectively. Finally, 94 articles were included for review. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Calcium ions are not only involved in the proliferation and differentiation of various osteogenesis-related cells (such as mesenchymal stem cells, osteoblasts, osteoclasts), but also involved in the osteogenesis by promoting angiogenesis and release of growth factors at defect sites. Recent studies have found that altered structure of blood clot at defect sites has a crucial impact on early bone healing, and calcium ions can regulate the structure of blood clots by regulating polymerization of fibrin.  Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Regulatory role of microRNAs in the occurrence and development of osteoarthritis Wang Weikang, Liu Xiaodong, Zhou Changlin, Tian Jun 2021, 25 (35):  5709-5715.  doi: 10.12307/2021.304 Abstract ( 636 )   PDF (626KB) ( 236 )   Save BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that microRNAs play an important role in the regulation of inflammation-mediated diseases. miRNAs are involved in a series of processes such as cell differentiation, apoptosis, proliferation, fat metabolism, inflammation, and immune response. OBJECTIVE: To review the roles of microRNAs in the occurrence and development of osteoarthritis from the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis and the relationship between microRNAs and pain, aging, early diagnosis and treatment, so as to provide new ideas for the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of osteoarthritis. METHODS: CNKI, VIP, WanFang, PubMed, Biosos Preview and Web of Science were searched for relevant literatures published from 1990 to 2020. The search terms were “Osteoarthritis; miRNAs; Chondrocytes; Gene therapy” in Chinese and English, respectively. After excluding repetitive and obsolete literatures, 76 literatures meeting the inclusion criteria were finally selected.     RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: MicroRNA is a kind of non-coding protein small molecule RNA, which widely exists in various eukaryotic cells. MicroRNA is widely involved in the regulation of post-transcriptional genes, affects biological processes and cellular signal transduction due to its binding to target genes, and plays a very important role in the development of osteoarthritis. MicroRNAs participate in the regulation of post-transcriptional genes, affects cellular signal transduction and biological processes by binding to target genes, and plays an important regulatory role in the occurrence and development of osteoarthritis. Although the role of microRNAs in osteoarthritis has been studied a lot, the specific mechanism is still unclear. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Epigenetic mechanisms in periodontal disease, periodontal cell osteogenesis and bone regeneration Wu Dandan, Liu Qi 2021, 25 (35):  5716-5722.  doi: 10.12307/2021.305 Abstract ( 616 )   PDF (635KB) ( 199 )   Save BACKGROUND: Periodontal disease is a complex, heterogeneous and multi-factorial oral destructive disease caused mainly by bacteria, where the role of epigenetics cannot be ignored.  OBJECTIVE: To summarize the epigenetic model of periodontal diseases that can measure periodontal susceptibility, and has diagnostic and therapeutic values for patients with periodontitis.  METHODS: PubMed database was searched for relevant literatures published from 2005 to 2020 using the key words of “epigenetics; periodontal disease; inflammatory response; bone regeneration; diagnosis; periodontal tissue engineering.” After screening, 86 articles was finally reviewed. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Periodontal disease and epigenetics interact with each other. The discovery of the epigenetic regulation of oral pathogens on pathogen recognition receptors (such as Toll-like receptors) and pro-inflammatory/anti-inflammatory cytokines indicates that they play an important role in regulating the host immune response and are related to cellular osteogenesis and bone regeneration. In addition, the latest research in tissue engineering shows that epigenetics can also improve the regeneration of periodontal tissue. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effects of maxillary expansion on temporomandibular joint and airway in children Gao Liping, Wan Lu, Zeng Manman, Li Xiaobing, Zhong Wenyi 2021, 25 (35):  5723-5728.  doi: 10.12307/2021.306 Abstract ( 800 )   PDF (649KB) ( 192 )   Save BACKGROUND: The maxillary expansion technique can help and improve the coordination of the maxilla and mandible and can change the growth pattern of the tissues around the maxilla. Especially, it plays an important role in the change of the temporomandibular joint and the airway in children, and can help and guide their growth along the normal direction. OBJECTIVE: To review the research progress in the effect of maxillary expansion technique on the temporomandibular joint and airway in children. METHODS: Literature retrieval was conducted in PubMed, CNKI, WanFang, and Medline. The key words were “maxillary expansion, palatal expansion, temporomandibular joint, masticatory muscle, airway” in English and Chinese, respectively. Studies and experiments of low quality and irrelevant to the topic of the article were excluded. Finally, 71 literatures were included for careful reading and analysis. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: In patients with underdevelopment of the maxillary, the bilateral condyles are often asymmetrical due to the unbalanced bite. When the maxillary extension technique is used to widen the maxilla, it has certain influence on the surrounding tissues. Maxillary expansion can make the condylar position on both sides of the patients with malocclusion more symmetrical and the muscle force distribution more uniform, which is conducive to the growth and development of the temporomandibular joint, but has no significant change in the position and shape of the joint disc. In addition, maxillary expansion can also improve the volume of the nasal cavity, improve the ventilation function of patients, and therefore, reduce the adverse consequences caused by obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Hypoxia-inducible factor and coronary heart disease: antagonism and protection Zhang Qunhui, Li Yimei, Zhang Dejun 2021, 25 (35):  5729-5734.  doi: 10.12307/2021.307 Abstract ( 467 )   PDF (561KB) ( 316 )   Save BACKGROUND: As a core transcription factor in the hypoxia response process, hypoxia-inducible factors participate in many physiological and pathophysiological processes. In recent years, hypoxia inducible factors play a vital role in the pathophysiological process and treatment of coronary heart disease. OBJECTIVE: To summarize the application of hypoxia-inducible factors in the pathophysiological process of coronary heart disease. METHODS: English literatures published during January 2010 to October 2020 were retrieved from PubMed and Web of Science, and Chinese literatures published during January 2010 to October 2020 were retrieved from CNKI and the Chinese Biomedical Literature Database. Search terms were “hypoxia inducible factor, coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction, angina pectoris” in English and Chinese, respectively. The search strategy for Chinese databases was ((hypoxia inducible factor) AND ((coronary heart disease) OR (myocardial infarction) OR (angina pectoris))), and the search strategy for English databases was ((((coronary heart disease[Title]) OR (myocardial infarction[Title])) OR (angina pectoris[Title])) AND ((HIF[Title]) OR (Hypoxia inducible factor[Title]))). There were 51 articles in Chinese and 44 articles in English. By limiting the time of publication, and then reading the title and abstract, 38 articles were finally included for review. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Hypoxia-inducible factors prevent against myocardial infarction by promoting angiogenesis, inhibiting apoptosis in cardiomyocytes, eliminating inflammatory responses, preventing cardiomyocyte autophagy and resisting myocardial fibrosis. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Relationship between biological activities of Apelin and Elabela and diseases Wen Miaomiao, Fan Junbai 2021, 25 (35):  5735-5740.  doi: 10.12307/2021.308 Abstract ( 457 )   PDF (605KB) ( 306 )   Save BACKGROUND: Apelin is an endogenous ligand of putative receptor protein related to angiotensin II type 1 receptor (APJ), with multiple subtypes, each of which has different biological activities. In recent years, it has been discovered that Elabela is another ligand of APJ, which plays a key role in the development of the heart and differentiation of the endoderm. Elabela is different from Apelin in time point and area. OBJECTIVE: To focus on the therapeutic effects and mechanisms for specific diseases based on a large amount of literatures regarding the structure and function of Apelin and Elabela.   METHODS: Relevant literature searches were conducted in PubMed, CNKI, WanFang Full-text Database, and VIP database. The time limit was from 1993 to 2020. The search terms were “Apelin, Elabela, nervous system, lung disease, high blood pressure, insulin resistance” in English and Chinese, respectively. Abstracts and conclusions were initially screened, and irrelevant literatures were excluded. Finally, 76 literatures were included for results analysis. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Apelin has the effects of relieving pain, reducing lung damage, regulating blood pressure, inhibiting gastric acid secretion, diuresis, reducing insulin resistance, increasing immunity, anti-aging, etc. Elabela is involved in angiogenesis, embryonic development, endoderm differentiation, etc. Both of them are expected to become a therapeutic target for circulatory system, nervous system, and heart diseases, and provide new ideas for the initial prevention of diseases in clinic. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics