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18 March 2022, Volume 26 Issue 8 Previous Issue    Next Issue

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Exercises for activating foot valgus muscle: reciprocal inhibitory effects on antagonistic muscle elasticity, tension and hardness Zheng Pei, Xing Xinyang, Huo Hongfeng 2022, 26 (8):  1149-1153.  doi: 10.12307/2022.216 Abstract ( 836 )   PDF (644KB) ( 108 )   Save BACKGROUND: Exercise for activating foot valgus muscle is an important intervention approach in the field of foot and ankle rehabilitation. It has been widely used in rehabilitation practice; however, its interactive effect on antagonist muscles is still unclear. OBJECTIVE: To explore the reciprocal inhibitory effect of foot varus muscle activation exercise on antagonistic muscle. METHODS: Eighteen college student volunteers were selected. The elastic band was used for the isometric exercises of foot eversion. Muscle elasticity, tension and hardness of the marked area were measured using MyotonPRO before and after the intervention, and pain intensity and ankle dorsiflexion activity were measured. The data were analyzed and processed by t-test. The implementation of the study protocol complied with the relevant ethical requirements of Hebei Normal University, and all subjects signed an informed consent form prior to the participation in the trial. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: After intervention, muscle tension oscillation frequency was significantly decreased (P < 0.05); the hardness score and muscle elasticity score were significantly increased (P < 0.05); the pain score in tenderness area was significantly lower (P < 0.05); and the dorsal malleolus flexion activity was significantly improved (P < 0.05). To conclude, foot varus activation exercises can immediately reduce muscle tension and hardness, enhance muscle elasticity, and improve exercise fatigue and performance. This reciprocal inhibitory intervention have a potential to reduce the pain score, improve ankle dorsiflexion range of motion, relieve pain, and reduce the risk of sports injury. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Exploratory study on talk test as a measure of intensity in blood flow restriction training Gu Zhengqiu, Xu Fei, Wei Jia, Zou Yongdi, Wang Xiaolu, Li Yongming 2022, 26 (8):  1154-1159.  doi: 10.12307/2022.217 Abstract ( 659 )   PDF (837KB) ( 75 )   Save BACKGROUND: Blood flow restriction combined with aerobic exercise has potential training benefits, and talk test is a convenient option for prescribing the exercise intensity. Whether the talk test can be applied to the blood flow restricted aerobic exercise depends on the reliability and validity of the talk test under blood flow restriction. OBJECTIVE: To explore the reliability and validity of talk test with blood flow restriction.  METHODS: Twenty collegiate males participated in one maximum oxygen uptake test (Tmax) and three talk tests. The protocols for the three talk tests were the same, with the one equipped with a gas metabolizer (TT-gas) throughout the whole test process, and the other two following the standard procedure (TT-standard). In Tmax, the maximum oxygen uptake, ventilatory threshold and respiratory compensation threshold were examined. In TT-standard, the corresponding heart rate and rating of perceived exertion of the last positive stage, equivocal state and negative stage were examined. In TT-gas, the corresponding oxygen uptake, heart rate and rating of perceived exertion of all steps were examined. All the four tests were fully pressurized along the bandages on both thighs (40% arterial occlusion pressure).  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The reliability of corresponding power of the last positive stage and negative stage measured by two TT-standard was high. The reliability of corresponding heart rate of the last positive stage, equivocal state and negative stage was high to very high. However, the reliability of corresponding rating of perceived exertion of the last positive stage, equivocal state and negative stage was low to medium. The correlation between corresponding oxygen uptake, heart rate and rating of perceived exertion of the last positive stage and ventilatory threshold was medium to high (R=0.47-0.63, P < 0.05). The correlation between corresponding oxygen uptake, heart rate and rating of perceived exertion of the equivocal state and ventilatory threshold is high to very high (R=0.63-0.84, P < 0.05). The correlations between corresponding oxygen uptake, heart rate and rating of perceived exertion of the negative stage and ventilatory threshold were medium (R=0.36, P > 0.05), very high (R=0.80, P < 0.01) and medium (R=0.52, P < 0.05), respectively. Except for corresponding heart rate of the last positive stage, there was no significant difference between corresponding oxygen uptake, heart rate and rating of perceived exertion of the last positive stage and equivocal state and ventilatory threshold values (P > 0.005). There was no significant difference between corresponding oxygen uptake and heart rate of the negative stage and respiratory compensation threshold (P > 0.005). To conclude, the talk test in aerobic exercise with blood flow restriction under 40% arterial occlusion pressure has high retest reliability and medium to high validity, which can effectively evaluate the intensity of ventilatory threshold, but cannot effectively evaluate the intensity of respiratory compensation threshold. Talk test can be a convenient and reliable option for monitoring low intensity during blood flow restricted aerobic exercise. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Massage vibration intervenes with MyoD expression and proliferation and differentiation of muscle satellite cells in rats with sciatic nerve injury Kong Yamin, Yan Juntao, Ma Bingxiang, Li Huawei 2022, 26 (8):  1160-1166.  doi: 10.12307/2022.218 Abstract ( 610 )   PDF (903KB) ( 81 )   Save BACKGROUND: Massage vibration therapy has definite effects on peripheral nerve injury. However, less is reported on its mechanism of action. OBJECTIVE: To explore the mechanism of massage vibration on peripheral nerve regeneration after injury. METHODS: Twenty-eight SD rats were randomly divided into sham operation group (n=8) and model group (n=20). Animal models of sciatic nerve injury were established in the model group by sciatic nerve clamping. Four rats in the model group were then randomly selected for model identification, and the remaining rats in the model group were randomly divided into sham intervention group (n=8) and massage vibration method group (n=8). In the sham operation group the skin was opened and sutured with no injury. The rats were intervened on the 7th day after modeling. In the massage vibration group, massage vibration was given using a vibrator by touching the skin of the right lower extremity at a frequency of 8 Hz, once a day, 2 min per time, for 4 consecutive weeks. In the sham intervention group, the vibrator only touched the skin but with no massage treatment. No treatment was given in the sham operation group. Incline plane test and behavioral indexes of sciatic function index were performed and measured after 7, 14, and 28 days of treatment, and muscle satellite cells, insulin-like growth factor 1, and MyoD biochemical index were detected after 28 days of  treatment. The study protocol was approved by the Animal Experiment Ethics Committee of Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: In the inclined plane test, the inclination angle of the sham intervention group and the massage vibration group was significantly smaller than that in the sham operation group after 7, 14, and 28 days of treatment (P < 0.05), but there was no significant difference between the sham intervention group and the massage vibration group (P > 0.05). The sciatic function index value in the massage vibration group was significantly better than that in the sham intervention group after 14 and 28 days of treatment. The positive expression of muscle satellite cells, insulin-like growth factor 1, and MyoD in the massage vibration group was highest after 28 days of treatment, followed by the sham intervention group and sham operation group (P < 0.05). To conclude, massage vibration method can effectively promote the recovery of motor function, accelerate the expression of insulin-like growth factor 1 and MyoD, expedite the proliferation and differentiation of muscle satellite cells, alleviate skeletal muscle atrophy, and accelerate sciatic nerve regeneration after injury. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Relationship between transforming growth factor beta1 expression and chondrocyte migration in adult articular cartilage after fragmentation Wu Cong, Jia Quanzhong, Liu Lun 2022, 26 (8):  1167-1172.  doi: 10.12307/2022.219 Abstract ( 528 )   PDF (1106KB) ( 43 )   Save BACKGROUND: Fragments of articular cartilage can enhance bone repair ability, the specific mechanism of which is still unclear.   OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship between transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) expression and chondrocyte migration in adult fragmented articular cartilage. METHODS:  Hind limbs (60 knees) from 30 male Sprague-Dawley rats of 12-15 weeks old, SPF grade, were aseptically collected, and the articular cartilage particles (about 1 mm × 1 mm × 1 mm) and massive cartilage blocks (approximately 5 mm in diameter and 2 mm in thickness) were obtained by cross-cutting method. In vitro culture model of composite gelatin sponge crumb and fibrin glue was established. There were three experimental groups: fragment group, whole block group, and inhibitor group. Both the fragment group and the whole group were cultured in a common cell culture medium, and the inhibitor group was treated with an exogenous TGF-β1 inhibitor, Decori, and a common cell culture solution. Transwell assay was used to detect cell migration. Phalloidin staining was used to observe the change of F-actin. The expression of TGF-β1 mRNA and protein was detected by qRT-PCR and western blot, respectively. Molecular docking technique was used to explore the relationship between TGF-β1 and F-actin.   RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Transwell assay results showed that the number of cells passing through matrigel increased significantly in the fragment group compared with the whole block group (P < 0.05). Compared with the fragment group, the number of cells passing through matrigel in the inhibitor group was significantly reduced (P < 0.05). The phalloidin staining results indicated that the F-actin ring structures were significantly reduced in the fragment group compared with the whole block group. Filamentous structures gradually formed with stress fibers in the cells being significantly reduced, the intercellular space beining significantly reduced, and cartilage damage recovering gradually. Compared with the fragment group, the F-actin ring structures were significantly increased in the inhibitor group, presenting with the intercellular space evidently enlarging. Compared with the whole block group, the expression levels of TGF-β1 mRNA and protein increased significantly in the fragment group (P < 0.05); compared with the fragment group, the expression levels of TGF-β1 mRNA and protein decreased significantly in the inhibitor group (P < 0.05). In the molecular docking simulation, TGF-β1 was combined with F-actin to form a stable complex, which was mainly based on hydrogen bonding force. Findings from this study indicate that TGF-β1 can overexpress in adult fragmented articular cartilage, and the overexpression of TGF-β1 can promote chondrocyte migration and promote cartilage. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effect of Zuogui Wan on bone morphogenetic protein 2 signaling pathway in ovariectomized osteoporosis mice Li Wei, Zhu Hanmin, Wang Xin, Gao Xue, Cui Jing, Liu Yuxin, Huang Shuming 2022, 26 (8):  1173-1179.  doi: 10.12307/2022.220 Abstract ( 616 )   PDF (1342KB) ( 50 )   Save BACKGROUND: Postmenopausal osteoporosis is a high-incidence disease in middle-aged and elderly women, which seriously affects the quality of life. It is very necessary to discover and develop an effective prevention and treatment method. Traditional Chinese medicine can treat postmenopausal osteoporosis with tonifying kidney medicines based on the theory of “kidney governs bone,” but the molecular mechanism is still unclear. OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of Zuogui Wan on bone morphogenic protein 2 (BMP-2)/Runx-2/Osterix signaling pathway.  METHODS: The postmenopausal osteoporosis model was established in mice by ovarian removal. Then the successfully modeled mice were divided into model group, sham operation group, estradiol group, high-, medium- and low-dose Zuogui Wan (0.936, 0.468, 0.234 g/L) groups, and blocker group, with 12 mice per group. In the high-, medium- and low-dose Zuogui Wan groups, the corresponding concentrations of Zuogui Wan decoction were given. Sham operation group and model group were given the equal volume of normal saline. Estradiol group was given estradiol aqueous solution. The blocker group was given ICI182780 plus high-dose Zuogui Wan decoction. Intervention in each group was given via gavage for 8 continuous weeks. Immunohistochemistry and western blot were used to detect the expression of key proteins BMP-2, Runx-2 and Osterix in the tibia and femur of ovariectomized osteoporosis mice after intervention by Zuogui Wan. Changes of protein expressions in the BMP pathway were detected after blocking estrogen receptor using ICI182780. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Immunohistochemical findings indicated that compared with the model group, the high and medium doses of Zuogui Wan could significantly increase the expression of BMP-2 in ovariectomized osteoporosis mice (P < 0.01, P < 0.05); the expression of Runx-2 in the medium- and low-dose Zuogui Wan groups was significantly different (P < 0.01). Western blot results showed that compared with the model group, the high and middle doses of Zuogui Wan significantly increased the expression of BMP-2 in ovariectomized osteoporosis mice (P < 0.05); the expression of Runx-2 was significantly higher in the high-, medium- and low-dose Zuogui Wan groups (P < 0.01, P < 0.05, P < 0.05); and the expression of Osterix was significantly higher in the high- and medium-dose Zuogui Wan groups (P < 0.01, P < 0.05). After ICI182780 intervention, compared with the high-dose group, the expression of BMP-2 and Runx-2 in the mouse tibia was significantly reduced in the blocker group (P < 0.05, P < 0.01) and the expression of BMP-2, Runx-2 and Osterix in the mouse femoral bones was significantly reduced in the blocker group (P < 0.01). To conclude, Zuogui Wan can participate in the regulation of bone metabolism by increasing the expression of important proteins in the BMP/Runx-2/Osterix signaling pathway in ovariectomized osteoporosis mice, thereby achieving the protection of bones. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Miao medicine fumigation can delay extracellular matrix destruction in a rabbit model of knee osteoarthritis Wang Baojuan, Zheng Shuguang, Zhang Qi, Li Tianyang 2022, 26 (8):  1180-1186.  doi: 10.12307/2022.221 Abstract ( 408 )   PDF (1335KB) ( 57 )   Save BACKGROUND: Previous studies have shown that Miao medicine fumigation therapy has a definite effect on the treatment of osteoarthritis; however, its mechanism is unclear. Because excessive angiogenesis in synovial tissue and subchondral bone tissue is an important cause of the occurrence and development of osteoarthritis, vascular endothelial growth factor is an important pro-angiogenesis factor in the body, and the stromal cell-derived factor 1/CXCR4 signaling pathway is closely related to the overexpression of vascular endothelial growth factor.  OBJECTIVE: To explore the role of stromal cell-derived factor 1/CXCR4 signaling pathway in the osteoarthritic occurrence and development and the therapeutic mechanism of Miao medicine fumigation on knee osteoarthritis. METHODS: Fifty healthy New Zealand white rabbit were randomized into normal, model, positive control (voltaren ointment for external use), early intervention, and Miao medicine fumigation groups. The knee osteoarthritis model was established in the latter four groups by injecting sodium iodoacetate into the knee joint cavity of rabbits. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was used to observe the pathological changes of synovium and cartilage. Immunohistochemical method was used to detect the levels of interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α in synovial tissue. ELISA method was used to detect the level of stromal cell-derived factor 1 in synovial fluid and the level of vascular endothelial growth factor in serum. Real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR was used to detect vascular endothelial growth factor mRNA expression in articular cartilage tissue. Western blot assay was used to detect the expression of type II collagen and aggrecan protein in cartilage tissue. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the model group, Miao medicine fumigation treatment significantly inhibited the inflammation in synovium and cartilage tissue and reduced its pathological changes. Compared with the model group, the integral absorbance values of interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α in synovium and the levels of vascular endothelial growth factor in serum and stromal cell-derived factor in joint fluid were significantly reduced in the Miao medicine fumigation group (P < 0.05). Compared with the model group, the serum vascular endothelial growth factor mRNA was reduced in the Miao medicine fumigation group, while type II collagen and aggrecan expressions were increased (P < 0.05). The above experimental results indicated no significant differences among Miao medicine fumigation group, positive control group and early intervention group (P > 0.05). To conclude, the Miao medicine fumigation therapy maybe by reducing the binding of stromal cell-derived factor 1 to its receptor CXCR4 inhibits the expression of interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, and vascular endothelial growth factor, delays the destruction of extracellular matrix, and plays a therapeutic role. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Establishment and characteristic analysis of interior heat and diabetes mouse model using compound factors Lü Yiyan, Li Hanbing, Ma Xiaoqing, Zhang Han, Zhang Yuhang, Li Genlin 2022, 26 (8):  1187-1193.  doi: 10.12307/2022.222 Abstract ( 483 )   PDF (822KB) ( 107 )   Save BACKGROUND: Diabetes belongs to the category of “diabetes” in traditional Chinese medicine. According to the development process and clinical manifestations of the disease, there are often different syndrome manifestations. In most cases, excessive heat mainly appears in the early stage, which is called excessive heat type diabetes, and deficiency of both qi and yin is mainly present in the middle and late stages, which is called deficiency of both qi and yin type diabetes.  OBJECTIVE: To establish a mouse model of interior heat and diabetes by compound method, which can reflect the characteristics of traditional Chinese medicine symptoms, and lay a foundation for studying the evolution of diabetes and related drugs.  METHODS: Thirty ICR mice were randomly divided into blank control group, short-term model group and long-term model group. The short-term model group was intraperitoneally injected with 40 mg/kg streptozotocin for 5 consecutive days, and then given 20 g/kg warm drugs via gavage for 14 days to establish the interior heat and diabetes model. On the basis of short-term models, the long-term model group was given the same dose of warm drugs for 21 days. The body mass, fasting blood glucose, water intake, food intake, urine volume and serum insulin levels of mice in each group were measured after modeling. Insulin resistance index and insulin sensitivity index were calculated. The activities of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes III and V in liver and kidney tissues were measured. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was used to detect the pathological changes of mouse pancreas. The study protocol was approved by the Animal Ethics Committee of Henan University of Chinese Medicine (approval No. DWLL202003270). RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the blank control group, the mice in the short-term and long-term model groups showed typical symptoms of diabetes, such as polydipsia, polyuria, body mass loss, rise in the rectal temperature (P < 0.05); the levels of fasting blood glucose and insulin resistance index were significantly increased; the levels of insulin sensitivity index were significantly decreased (P < 0.05); and the activities of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes III and V in liver and kidney tissues were significantly increased (P < 0.05). The pancreatic tissue of mice in the short-term and long-term model groups was damaged in varying degrees by pathological observation of the pancreas. Compared with the short-term model group, the long-term model group had more drinking, more food, more urine, slower growth of body mass, and significantly lower rectal temperature with the progression of the disease (P < 0.05); the levels of fasting blood glucose and insulin resistance index were significantly increased, while the levels of insulin sensitivity index were significantly decreased (P < 0.05); the activities of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes III and V in liver and kidney tissues were significantly decreased (P < 0.05). Pathological findings indicated that the pancreatic function was further damaged in the long-term model group as the disease progressed. To conclude, the combination of streptozotocin and warm drugs for modeling can improve the disease-syndrome further combination model of interior heat and diabetes, and in the model, the syndrome is evolved. The short-term model shows excessive heat and the long-term model shows deficiency of both qi and yin. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Cardioprotective effect of 3-nitro-N-methyl salicylamide on the isolated rat heart under cold ischemia preservation Wang Shuo, Liu Wenying, Lü Chaofan, Li Jiacong, Geng Yi, Zhao Yungang 2022, 26 (8):  1194-1201.  doi: 10.12307/2022.223 Abstract ( 612 )   PDF (1036KB) ( 57 )   Save BACKGROUND: During reperfusion, increased reactive oxygen species will cause oxidative stress injury in ischemic organs, which is the critical factor for ischemia and reperfusion injury. Cellular reactive oxygen species are mainly originated from mitochondrial electron transport chain. Therefore, it is an effective strategy to reduce myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury due to elevated reactive oxygen species by inhibiting electron transport at mitochondrial electron transport chain. 3-Nitro-N-methyl-salicylamide (3-NNMS) is a semi-inhibitor for electron transport chain complex III, which can slow down the electron transport rate. 3-NNMS has potential applications for cardiac preservation; nevertheless, no related definite research or clinical practice has been reported. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the protective effect of a new cardioplegic solution with 3-NNMS as the main component on isolated rat heart preservation for 8 hours.  METHODS: Heart specimens were taken from healthy male Wistar rats, perfused stably for 30 minutes, and then preserved in different cardioplegic solutions at low temperature for 8 hours. According to different cardioplegic solutions used, rat heart specimens were divided into a control group (no preservation), a 3-NNMS cardioplegic solution group, a Celsior cardioplegic group, and a 3-NNMS+Celsior cardioplegic solution group. The hemodynamic changes of the heart were detected by Powerlab instruments. The mitochondrial function in the preserved myocardium was measured by Oxygraph-2k High-resolution respirometry and chemiluminescence apparatus. Myocardial injury was assessed by detecting the expression of cardiac troponin T, creatine kinase isoenzyme MB, and lactate dehydrogenase using ELISA. The morphological changes of the heart were histologically observed. And the myocardial reactive oxygen species level was tested by inverted fluorescence microscope.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The 3-NNMS cardioplegic solution could improve the heart rate recovery compared with the Celsior (P < 0.05), and decrease the levels of cardiac troponin T, creatine kinase isoenzyme MB, and lactate dehydrogenase in perfusate supernatant (P < 0.05). 3-NNMS could remarkably elevate mitochondria membrane potential, and maintain mitochondrial membrane structure effectively (P < 0.05). 3-NNMS could significantly increase the activity of superoxide dismutase (P < 0.05), ameliorate myocardial antioxidant function, and alleviate oxidative damage. It was nontoxic for cell culture with 3-NNMS, which can be used regardless of the concentration. To conclude, 3-NNMS can reduce oxidative stress-induced myocardial injury via increasing superoxide dismutase activity and promoting myocardial active oxygen clearance. Besides, 3-NNMS can improve heart rate recovery and keep mitochondrial membrane integrity during the reperfusion period.  Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Bibliometric and visualized analysis of ferroptosis mechanism research Li Zhiyi, He Pengcheng, Bian Tianyue, Xiao Yuxia, Gao Lu, Liu Huasheng 2022, 26 (8):  1202-1209.  doi: 10.12307/2022.224 Abstract ( 845 )   PDF (1109KB) ( 120 )   Save BACKGROUND: Ferroptosis is a novel form of regulated cell death, characterized by iron-dependent polyunsaturated fatty acids peroxidation and subsequent plasma membrane rupture. Ferroptosis is involved in numerous diseases.  OBJECTIVE: To understand the trends and hot spots of ferroptosis by analyzing Chinese and English literatures related to ferroptosis based on bibliometric and visualized analysis.  METHODS: We searched literatures related to ferroptosis in the Web of Science Core Collection and CNKI from 2012 to 2021, and analyzed the quantity, country, institution, author, journal, citations and keywords of literatures by CiteSpace software to generate a mapping knowledge domain.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The number of relevant literatures increased rapidly in recent years. Chinese researchers published the most number of literatures. Reference and keywords analysis showed that ferroptosis plays an important role in cancer, neurodegenerative diseases and ischemia reperfusion injury. Iron, lipid and glutathione metabolisms are the basic biological processes of ferroptosis. GPX4 and ACSl4 are the key enzymes in ferroptosis. NRF2, p53 and nuclear factor-κB are the most extensively described regulators of ferroptosis. Sorafenib promotes ferroptosis in tumor cells, while Erastin and vitamin E protect neurons from ferroptosis. They are the most popular drugs for ferroptosis. We should further research the mechanism of ferroptosis to provide more support for its translational applications in clinic. Nanoparticles combined with drugs or physical methods targeting ferroptosis bring a new and worthy therapeutic strategy. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Treadmill exercise improves the myocardial fibrosis of spontaneous type 2 diabetic mice: an exploration on the functional pathway Chen Xianghe, Liu Bo, Yang Kang, Lu Pengcheng, Yu Huilin 2022, 26 (8):  1210-1215.  doi: 10.12307/2022.225 Abstract ( 522 )   PDF (944KB) ( 101 )   Save BACKGROUND: For type 2 diabetes mellitus accompanied by myocardial interstitial fibrosis, although miR-29a closely regulates the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1/Smads pathway, little is reported about this signaling pathway regulating myocardial interstitial fibrosis in type 2 diabetes. Existing studies have shown that exercise can improve myocardial fibrosis in type 2 diabetes. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of different kinds of exercises on myocardial fibrosis in spontaneous type 2 diabetic mice (KK-Ay mice) and the molecular regulation of miR-29a/TGF-β1 pathway in this process.  METHODS: Twenty-four KK-Ay mice, 10 weeks of age, were adaptively fed for 1 week, and randomly divided into KK-Ay control group (KC; 8 mice), KK-Ay swimming group (KY; 8 mice) and KK-Ay treadmill group (KP; 8 mice). Another eight C57BL/6J mice, 10 weeks of age, were selected as normal control group (ZC). KK-Ay mice were given a high-fat diet, and C57BL/6J mice were fed with common feed. The mice in the KY and KP groups were trained for 8 weeks by swimming and running exercise, respectively. Afterwards, the wall of the left ventricle of the mouse was taken, and the change of myocardial fibrosis was detected by Masson staining. The mRNA expression of relevant factors in the myocardium was detected by RT-PCR; the protein level and expression of the relevant factors in the myocardium were detected by ELISA and western blot, respectively. The study protocol was approved by the Animal Ethics Committee of Physical Education School of Yangzhou University with an approval No. YZU-TYXY-31. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the ZC group, the KC group had a significant degree of myocardial interstitial fibrosis; miR-29a mRNA expression and protein level in the myocardium were significantly reduced and TGF-β1, Smad3, Smad4, type I collagen mRNA expression and p-Smad2, p-Smad3, p-Smad4 protein expression were significantly up-regulated (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01), and TGF-β1 and type I collagen protein levels were significantly increased (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). Compared with the KC group, no significant change in myocardial fibrosis was observed in the KY group; the expression of TGF-β1 and Smad4 mRNAs in the myocardium was significantly down-regulated and the TGF-β1 protein level was significantly reduced (P < 0.05), and other related indicators were not significantly changed. The degree of myocardial fibrosis in the KP group was significantly improved; miR-29a mRNA expression and protein level in the myocardium increased (P < 0.05), TGF-β1, Smad2, Smad3 and COL1 mRNA expression and TGF-β1, COL1 protein levels decreased significantly (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01), and p-Smad2, p-Smad3 and p-Smad4 protein expression was significantly down-regulated (P < 0.05). Compared with the KY group, the myocardial fibrosis of the KP group was significantly improved; miR-29a mRNA expression and protein level in the myocardium were significantly increased (P < 0.05), TGF-β1, COL1 mRNA expression and protein level were significantly reduced (P < 0.05), and p-Smad2, p-Smad3 and p-Smad4 protein expression was significantly down-regulated (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). To conclude, type 2 diabetic mice have severe myocardial fibrosis. Treadmill exercise inhibits the TGF-β1/Smads pathway by up-regulating miR-29a in the myocardium of T2DM mice to improve myocardial fibrosis, but swimming exercise has no significant effect. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Dapagliflozin improves renal injury in diabetic nephropathy rats Wang Qin, Shen Cheng, Liao Jing, Yang Ye 2022, 26 (8):  1216-1222.  doi: 10.12307/2022.226 Abstract ( 721 )   PDF (1380KB) ( 107 )   Save BACKGROUND: Dapagliflozin has obvious renal protective effect on renal injury caused by diabetic nephropathy. OBJECTIVE: To explore the possible mechanism by which dapagliflozin can improve renal injury in diabetic nephropathy rats through microRNA-126. METHODS: Sprague-Dawley rat models of diabetic nephropathy were successfully established, and randomly divided into a model group, a metformin group and a dapagliflozin group, with six rats in each group. They were given the same dose of normal saline, metformin (500 mg/kg) and dapagliflozin (10 mg/kg) by gavage once a day. Another six rats with normal diet were selected as control group. Twelve weeks later, the rats in each group were killed under anesthesia. Fasting blood glucose, serum creatinine, urea nitrogen and 24-hour urinary microalbumin levels were detected. The level of microRNA-126 in rat kidney was detected by qRT-PCR. The levels of transforming growth factor-β 1, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 and phosphate and tension homology deleted on chromosome ten (PTEN) in rat kidney were detected by qRT-PCR, western blot and immunohistochemistry. The ultrastructural and pathological changes of the rat kidney were observed by electron microscope, hematoxylin-eosin staining and Masson staining.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The levels of fasting blood glucose, serum creatinine, urea nitrogen, 24-hour urinary microalbumin, transforming growth factor-β1, and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 in the model group were significantly higher than those in the normal group (P < 0.05), and the levels of microRNA-126 and PTEN were significantly lower than those in the normal group. The levels of fasting blood glucose, serum creatinine, urea nitrogen, 24-hour urinary microalbumin, transforming growth factor-β 1, and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 in the metformin group and dapagliflozin group were significantly lower than those in the model group (P < 0.05), and the levels of microRNA-126 and PTEN were significantly higher than those in the model group. The above changes were more significant in the dapagliflozin group compared with the metformin group (P < 0.05). Renal histopathological findings indicated that compared with the model group, the renal lesions in the metformin group and the dapagliflozin group was milder, the foot process of the dapagliflozin group was better than that of the metformin group, and the renal morphology was relatively normal in the dapagliflozin group. These findings indicate that dapagliflozin can up-regulate the level of microRNA-126, inhibit the expression of transforming growth factor-β 1, and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2, promote the expression of PTEN, and delay the process of renal injury in diabetic nephropathy rats. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Neuroprotective effects of tetrandrine preconditioning in rabbits with spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury Yang Shenglin, Pu Xingwei, Luo Chunshan, Yang Jianwen 2022, 26 (8):  1223-1227.  doi: 10.12307/2022.227 Abstract ( 650 )   PDF (773KB) ( 57 )   Save BACKGROUND: Spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury is commonly seen in surgical treatments during extracorporeal circulation. Once it occurs, the consequences are serious. Therefore, it is of great significance to avoid the occurrence of spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury. Tetrandrine seems to protect spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury through multiple approaches. OBJECTIVE: To study the protective effect and mechanism of tetrandrine preconditioning on spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury in rabbits. METHODS: Forty-eight New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into three groups (n=16 per group). Rabbit spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion model was made by using abdominal aorta occlusion. The sham operation group only exposed the abdominal aorta, but did not clamp the abdominal aorta while the abdominal aorta was clamped in the ischemia-reperfusion group for 30 minutes. Tetrandrine (22.5 mg/kg) was injected through the ear vein of the rabbit at 1 hour before operation in the tetrandrine pretreatment group. The abdominal aorta was then clamped for 30 minutes after opening the abdominal cavity, and then the rabbits were perfused for 48 hours. The motor function of hind limbs was evaluated by Tarlov scores at 24 hours and 48 hours after spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury in rabbits. The rabbits in each group were sacrificed after deep anesthesia and the lumbar spinal cord was taken out. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was used to observe the necrosis of spinal nerve cells in rabbits. Evans blue was used to observe the permeability of blood-spinal barrier; enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to test the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α; and mitochondrial permeability transition pore kit was adopted to measure the changes in fluorescence intensity to reflect the open changes of mitochondrial permeability transition pore. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Motor function scores of hind limbs: Compared with the sham operation group, the Tarlov scores were significantly lower in the ischemia-reperfusion group and tetrandrine pretreatment group at 24 hours and 48 hours after operation (P < 0.05), and the Tarlov scores in the ischemia-reperfusion group were lower than those in the tetrandrine pretreatment group at 24 hours and 48 hours after operation (P < 0.05). Hematoxylin-eosin staining indicated that: the cell morphology was normal in the sham operation group; the necrotic nerve cells were noted in the other two groups, but tetrandrine pretreatment group was superior to the ischemia-reperfusion group. The permeability of Evans blue decreased significantly in the sham operation group compared with the other two groups (P < 0.05). Moreover, the permeability of Evans blue in the ischemia-reperfusion group was significantly higher than that in the tetrandrine pretreatment group (P < 0.05). Tumor necrosis factor-α level in the spinal cord was extremely lower in the sham operation group than the other two groups (P < 0.05). Compared with the tetrandrine pretreatment group, the level of tumor necrosis factor-α in the spinal cord was significantly increased in the ischemia-reperfusion group (P < 0.05). The fluorescence intensity of mitochondrial permeability transition pore was stronger in the sham operation group than the other two groups (P < 0.05), and lower in the ischemia-reperfusion group than the tetrandrine pretreatment group (P < 0.05). To conclude, tetrandrine preconditioning has a protective effect on spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury in rabbits, and its mechanism may be associated with protecting blood-spinal cord barrier, inhibiting the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α and inhibiting the opening of mitochondrial permeability transition pore. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Protective effect and mechanism of dendrobium on fibroblasts damaged by ultraviolet B Li Qin, Mao Shuangfa, Li Min, Cheng Jiyan 2022, 26 (8):  1228-1233.  doi: 10.12307/2022.228 Abstract ( 597 )   PDF (1867KB) ( 161 )   Save BACKGROUND: Ultraviolet B increases reactive oxygen species, which is the most important physical factor of light damage and photoaging. Dendrobium polysaccharides contained in dendrobium can improve the activity of antioxidant enzymes, scavenge free radicals, and inhibit lipid peroxidation, which have certain effects on stabilizing biofilms and delaying aging. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the preventive effect and mechanism of dendrobium on the photoaging fibroblasts of human induced by ultraviolet B in vitro.  METHODS: Human fibroblasts cultured in vitro were randomized into four groups: a control group with normal culture, a model group irradiated by one-time ultraviolet B at a dose of 20 mJ/cm2, a dendrobium group interfered with 30 mg/L dendrobium polysaccharides, and an experimental group interfered with 30 mg/L dendrobium polysaccharides following 20 mJ/cm2 ultraviolet B irradiation. Cells in each group were then cultured for another 48 hours. Expression of Nrf2 and superoxide dismutase at gene and protein levels was detected using qRT-PCR, western blot and immunohistochemistry. Cellular reactive oxygen levels were detected using fluorescence detection, and malondialdehyde content was detected using colorimetric determination.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The mRNA and protein levels of Nrf2 and superoxide dismutase were significantly up-regulated in the model, dendrobium and experimental groups compared with the control group (P < 0.05). The mRNA and protein levels of Nrf2 and superoxide dismutase were significantly higher in the experimental group than the model and dendrobium groups (P < 0.05). Compared with the control group, the reactive oxygen level was significantly increased in the model group (P < 0.05), and decreased in the dendrobium group (P < 0.05). The reactive oxygen level in the experimental group was significantly lower than that in the model group (P < 0.05). Compared with the control group, the malondialdehyde content was significantly increased in the model and experimental groups (P < 0.05), and significantly decreased in the dendrobium group (P < 0.05). The malondialdehyde content in the experimental group was significantly lower than that in the model group (P < 0.05). To conclude, dendrobium has certain protective effects on the photoaging of human fibroblasts induced by ultraviolet B. The main mechanism of dendrobium may be to regulate the production of superoxide dismutase, and eliminate reactive oxygen, reduce cell damage caused by ultraviolet B through Keap1-Nrf2-ARE signaling pathway. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Visualization analysis of neuromuscular electrical stimulation therapy based on CiteSpace: therapeutic effects, hot spots, and developmental trends Zhao Jing, Liu Xiaobo, Zhang Yue, Zhang Jiaming, Zhong Dongling, Li Juan, Jin Rongjiang 2022, 26 (8):  1234-1241.  doi: 10.12307/2022.229 Abstract ( 853 )   PDF (1367KB) ( 196 )   Save BACKGROUND: Neuromuscular electrical stimulation therapy has been widely used in the field of rehabilitation. OBJECTIVE: To understand the hot spots and trends of neuromuscular electrical stimulation therapy research worldwide, analyze the research development framework, and provide references for further research and applications in this field. METHODS: Literature from January 1, 2010 to October 7, 2020 was retrieved from the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Web of Science core aggregation databases. Among them, Chinese literatures were searched in the CNKI with “neuromuscular electrical stimulation” or “neuromuscular electrical stimulation therapy,” and English literatures were searched in the Web of Science with “neuromuscular electrical stimulation or NMES.” The CiteSpace V software was used to visualize the publication volume, country, author, institution, cited literature and keywords, and to draw the corresponding figures. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: A total of 2 453 relevant literatures were finally included, 618 from the CNKI and 1 835 from the Web of Science. The author with the most publications in China is Lan Xiaoman from the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Science and Technology (Guangxi, China). The institution with the most publications is the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine of the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University. In China, the high-cited keywords, such as stroke and hemiplegia, are connected with each other more closely. The foreign author with the most publications is GUILLAUMEY MILLET, University of Calgary, Canada, and Case Western Reserve University has the highest volume of publications. The high-cited keywords are stroke, skeletal muscle, and exercise. In recent years, the overall research of neuromuscular electrical stimulation has been stably popularized, and international research hotspots mainly focus on post-stroke dysfunction. In China, the research of neuromuscular electrical stimulation focuses on pelvic floor dysfunction as well as combined acupuncture for swallowing disorders after stroke, whereas the international research trends mainly emphasize on the intrinsic mechanism exploration of neuromuscular electrical stimulation for neuromuscular function and the clinical application combined with magnetic stimulation therapy. However, further explorations are required on the mechanism of neuromuscular electrical stimulation targeting swallowing function, pelvic floor dysfunction and the clinical application of neuromuscular electrical stimulation. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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High-dose vitamin C promotes the survival of autologous fat transplantation in rats Xiang Xinjian, Liu Fang, Wu Liangliang, Jia Daping, Tao Yue, Zhao Zhengnan, Zhao Yu 2022, 26 (8):  1242-1246.  doi: 10.12307/2022.230 Abstract ( 787 )   PDF (1113KB) ( 43 )   Save BACKGROUND: Fat transplantation is often used for soft tissue filling, reconstruction, and beauty treatments. However, the survival rate of fat transplants varies greatly. How to improve the survival rate of fat transplants has become a research focus. OBJECTIVE: To explore the effect of different doses of vitamin C on the survival of fat transplants after autologous fat transplantation.   METHODS: Twenty female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into a low-, high-, super-high-dose vitamin C groups and control group (n=5 per group). The abdominal mesenteric fat of rats in each group was taken out, and 0.8 g of fat particles was transplanted into a 1 cm diameter subcutaneous sac on the back of each rat after proper treatment. The experimental groups were intraperitoneally injected with 1 mL of vitamin C solution of 50, 150, and 1 000 mg/d respectively for 7 consecutive days after operation. The control group was intraperitoneally injected with the same amount of normal saline. After 8 weeks, the rats were euthanized. Then the grafts were taken out and evaluated as follows after removal of the adherent fibrous connective tissue: (1) gross observation; (2) retention weight; (3) hematoxylin-eosin staining; (4) immunohistochemical staining of CD34. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The texture of fat in the three vitamin C groups was generally softer than that of the control group, and there were more small blood vessels on the surface of the fat graft. The graft retention weight of the vitamin C groups was significantly higher than that of the control group, and the retention weight of the high-dose group was highest (P < 0.001). The formation of vesicles in the three vitamin C groups was reduced. High- and super-high-dose vitamin C was more effective in reducing inflammatory infiltration and fibrosis (P < 0.05). The capillary densities in the high- and super-high-dose vitamin C groups were higher than that in the control group (P < 0.001). To conclude, high-dose vitamin C can increase the capillary density and retention quality of autologous fat, reduce the degree of inflammatory infiltration and fibrosis, and reduce the formation of vesicles in rats. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Comparison and evaluation of MPTP-induced subacute and chronic models of Parkinson’s disease in mice Chen Shijian, Li Ge, Zhang Yu, Guan Yalun, Li Xuejiao, Liu Shuhua, Li Yongchao, Li Yunfeng, Gao Jinfeng, Wei Xiaoyue, Zhao Yuhong 2022, 26 (8):  1247-1252.  doi: 10.12307/2022.231 Abstract ( 1048 )   PDF (768KB) ( 285 )   Save BACKGROUND: A mouse model of Parkinson's disease that is inducted by 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) is one of the widely used animal models that partly reflects the pathogenesis and pathological characteristics of Parkinson’s disease.  OBJECTIVE: To establish subacute and Chronic Parkinson's disease models using MPTP, and to observe the similarities and differences between the two animal models in behavior, histopathology, and changes in related protein levels, and their differences with the clinical symptoms of the disease.  METHODS: Forty C57BL/6J mice were randomized into four groups. In subacute model group, mice were injected with MPTP 25 mg/kg/d intraperitoneally for 7 days. In control group 1, injected with normal saline intraperitoneally; chronic model group, injected with MPTP subcutaneously at 25 mg/kg, and then with probenecid at 250 mg/kg intraperitoneally. In the chronic model group, MPTP+probenecid were injected at an interval of 3.5 days for a total of 10 times to induce a chronic model. In control group 2, mice were injected with probenecid intraperitoneally. The behavioral changes of mice were tested by the rotarod and the pole tests, and the distribution of tyrosine hydroxylase positive cells in the substantia nigra was detected by immunofluorescence staining, and the expression level of tyrosine hydroxylase protein in brain tissue was detected by western blot. The study protocol was approved by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) of Guangdong Laboratory Animal Monitoring Institute with AAALAC Certification (No. IACUC 2020137). RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: In the subacute mouse model, the results of the rotarod test showed that the residence time of the mice on the accelerated rotating rod was significantly reduced compared with the control group 1 (P < 0.05). In the pole test, the time for the mice to move from the top of the pole to the bottom increased significantly compared with the control group 1 (P < 0.05). However, the number of tyrosine hydroxylase positive cells in the substantia nigra and the expression of tyrosine hydroxylase protein were not significantly different from those of the control group 1. In the chronic mouse model, there was no significant difference in the total time of rotarod stay and the pole test compared with the control group 2, but the number of tyrosine hydroxylase positive cells in the substantia nigra and the tyrosine hydroxylase protein expression level were significantly lower than those of the control group 2 (P < 0.05). Therefore, MPTP-induced subacute and chronic Parkinson’s model mouse models show partial similar phenotypes to human Parkinson's disease in sports injuries and pathological changes due to differences in modeling methods, suggesting that it is necessary to select an appropriate animal model based on the study purpose. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effect of electroacupuncture on nerve growth factor and its receptor expression in facial nerve nucleus after facial nerve injury in rabbits Xiao Yang, Gong Liqiong, Fei Jing, Li Leiji 2022, 26 (8):  1253-1259.  doi: 10.12307/2022.232 Abstract ( 480 )   PDF (1477KB) ( 144 )   Save BACKGROUND: Preliminary studies have found that peripheral facial nerve injury can cause changes in the expression of nerve growth factor, but the mechanism of electroacupuncture in the expression of nerve growth factor is unclear. OBJECTIVE: Based on a model of peripheral facial nerve injury in rabbits, to observe the effects of electroacupuncture on facial paralysis symptoms, morphology of facial nerve nuclei and expression of nerve growth factor and its receptor and to explore the mechanism of electroacupuncture in the treatment of peripheral facial nerve injury.  METHODS: Forty-two New Zealand white rabbits (n=66) were randomized into normal group (n=6), model group (n=30) and electroacupuncture group (n=30). A crushing injury model of superior buccal branch of the right facial nerve was established in the latter two groups. There was no deal with normal group. After successful modeling, a needle was imbedded at Hegu in the electroacpuncture group, followed by electric stimulations with dilatational wave at Jiache, Dicang, Sibai, Yangbai, Yifeng, and Quanliao. No treatment was done in the model group. At 28 days of electroacupuncture, morphological changes of facial nerve nuclei were observed using hematoxylin-eosin staining and the expression of nerve growth factor, TrkA and p75NTR in facial nerve nuclei was detected using immunohistochemical staining. The expression of nerve growth factor, TrkA and p75NTR mRNA was detected using fluorescent quantitative PCR. The study protocol was approved by the Animal Ethics Committee of Southwest Medical University, with an approval No. 20170120001. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Hematoxylin-eosin staining results showed that the morphology of neurons recovered faster and more completely in the electroacupuncture group than the model group after surgery. The results of immunohistochemical staining showed that the average absorbance value of nerve growth factor in the electroacupuncture group was higher than that in the model group at every time point (P < 0.05), and the average absorbance value of TrkA and p75NTR in the electroacupuncture group was higher than that in the model group on the 7th, 14th, and 28th days after surgery (P < 0.05). Fluorescent quantitative PCR results revealed that the relative expression of nerve growth factor and p75NTR mRNA in the electroacupuncture group was higher than that in the model group on the 14th and 28th days after surgery (P < 0.05). The TrkA mRNA expression in the electroacupuncure group was higher than that in the model group on the 7th, 14th, and 28th days after surgery (P < 0.05). To conclude, electroacupuncture can improve the expression of nerve growth factor, TrkA, and p75NTR in facial nerve nuclei, and may promote the binding between nerve growth factor with TrkA and p75NTR, which may be the mechanism by which electroacupuncture promotes the repair of facial nerve injury. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Role and mechanism of interleukin-3 in bone metabolism Wang Jing, Xiong Shan, Cao Jin, Feng Linwei, Wang Xin 2022, 26 (8):  1260-1265.  doi: 10.12307/2022.233 Abstract ( 671 )   PDF (737KB) ( 156 )   Save BACKGROUND: Bone defect and bone healing have always been two major clinical problems. In recent years, targeted cytokines such as Interleukin-3 have been used to treat certain bone diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple myeloma. OBJECTIVE: To summarize the relationship between interleukin-3 and bone metabolism, and to understand the mechanism of interleukin-3 in osteogenesis, so as to provide theoretical reference for new osteogenesis programs. METHODS: PubMed and CNKI were retrieved by the first author for relevant articles published January 1990 to March 2021 and from January 1979 to March 2021, respectively. The search terms used were “interleukin-3, bone metabolism, osteoblast, osteoclast, bone formation, mesenchymal stem cells, vascularization” in English and Chinese, respectively. A total of 896 articles detailing the mechanism of interleukin-3 and osteogenesis related metabolism were initially searched, and finally 56 eligible articles were included for further review and analysis.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Different from other cytokines, interleukin-3 has multi-lineage targeting potential and plays an important role in hematopoietic system. Studies have shown that interleukin-3 can directly interact with mesenchymal stem cells and promote their osteogenic differentiation. In addition, interleukin-3 has been shown to positively regulate the osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells by stimulating the synthesis of bone morphogenetic protein-2. Although interleukin-3 has an effect on bone marrow stromal osteoblasts through inhibition of bone morphogenetic protein-2, no effects of interleukin-3 on the Runx2 and β-catenin pathways have been found. Bone absorption by osteoclasts can lead to bone loss. Early studies found that interleukin-3 could promote osteoclasts, while recent studies have shown that interleukin-3 could significantly inhibit c-Fms at mRNA and protein levels, and down-regulate the expressions of PU.1 and c-Fos, thus producing an inhibitory effect on osteoclasts. Therefore, the specific mechanism of interleukin-3 in osteoblasts and osteoclasts is thoroughly reviewed in this paper, with a view to providing references for future studies. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Research progress of pulsed electromagnetic field in the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis Xiao Hao, Liu Jing, Zhou Jun 2022, 26 (8):  1266-1271.  doi: 10.12307/2022.234 Abstract ( 677 )   PDF (710KB) ( 69 )   Save BACKGROUND: Pulsed electromagnetic fields generate pulsed currents, and improve bone metabolism through the stress coupling mechanism. In recent years, increasing evidence has proved that pulsed electromagnetic fields can inhibit postmenopausal osteoporosis in many ways involving bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and bone cells.  OBJECTIVE: To review the effect and therapeutic mechanism of pulsed electromagnetic field on postmenopausal osteoporosis.  METHODS: We searched PubMed, CNKI, WanFang, VIP, and CBMdisc databases for relevant articles with the keywords of “pulsed electromagnetic field; postmenopausal osteoporosis; bone homeostasis; bone metabolism; bone density; biomechanical property; bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells; osteoblasts; osteoclasts; bone cells” in Chinese and English, respectively. Finally, 66 articles met the criteria for review. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Pulsed electromagnetic fields can increase bone density, improve bone biomechanical properties, promote bone formation, and inhibit the activity of osteoclasts to inhibit postmenopausal osteoporosis. At present, pulsed electromagnetic fields are of high feasibility to mediate osteogenic differentiation via Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and OPG/RANKL signaling pathway. Research on the mechanism of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, osteoblasts, and osteoclasts indicates a series of concepts in the initial stage, including that SIRT1 inhibits NLRP3 inflammasome to mediate bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell pyrolysis, long-chain non-coding RNA and related pathways regulate osteogenic differentiation, and hypoxia-inducible factors drive osteoclast differentiation. It is of important value to explore whether pulsed electromagnetic fields can regulate NLRP3 inflammasome signals through SIRT1 to inhibit the pyrolysis of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, thereby exerting an anti-osteoporosis effect. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Acupuncture for Parkinson’s disease: an insight into the action mechanism in animal experiments Zhu Chan, Han Xuke, Yao Chengjiao, Zhang Qiang, Liu Jing, Shao Ming 2022, 26 (8):  1272-1277.  doi: 10.12307/2022.235 Abstract ( 671 )   PDF (803KB) ( 97 )   Save BACKGROUND: Animal experiments on acupuncture treatment of Parkinson’s disease are an important way to study the mechanism underlying the therapeutic effect of acupuncture on Parkinson’s disease. OBJECTIVE: To systematically review the therapeutic mechanism of acupuncture for Parkinson’s disease in animal models.  METHODS: Databases including PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Chinese Biomedical database (CBM), Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Chinese Science and Technology Periodical database (VIP) and WanFang database were searched to collect experimental studies on acupuncture for Parkinson’s disease in recent 5 years. The keywords were “Parkinson’s disease; paralysis agitans; shaking palsy; acupuncture; electropuncture; animal model; experimental study” in English and Chinese, respectively. Finally, 22 eligible literatures regarding animal experiments were included for review. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: We found that the mechanisms of acupuncture for Parkinson’s disease mainly include increasing brain neurotrophin, reducing abnormal metabolites, enhancing autophagy, reducing α-syn aggregation to inhibit neuronal apoptosis, inhibit oxidative stress, inhibit endoplasmic reticulum stress, regulate intestinal flora, and reduce inflammatory reactions. Acupuncture can block the occurrence and progression of Parkinson’s disease from multiple pathological mechanisms, while further studies are still needed. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Inflammatory responses in post-stroke depression Tang Wenjing, Wu Siyuan, Yang Chen, Tao Xi 2022, 26 (8):  1278-1285.  doi: 10.12307/2022.236 Abstract ( 737 )   PDF (863KB) ( 80 )   Save BACKGROUND: Post-stroke depression is a common complication of stroke, with complex pathophysiological mechanism. The theory of inflammatory response is currently a hot spot in relevant fields. Some inflammatory factors not only mediate the pathogenesis of post-stroke depression, but also play an important role in the diagnosis and prognosis of post-stroke depression. OBJECTIVE: To summarize the role of different types of inflammatory factors in the pathophysiological mechanism and diagnosis of post-stroke depression, and put forward the possible application prospect. METHODS: Databases of Wanfang, CNKI and PubMed were searched for relevant articles published from January 2010 to February 2021 with the key words of “post-stroke depression, depression or stroke, inflammation reaction, inflammatory factor, cytokine” in Chinese or English, respectively. A few classic early literatures were included. By reading the titles and abstracts, repetitive studies, low-quality or irrelevant literatures were excluded. Finally, 69 articles were included for review.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: A total of 16 factors were screened out, which may be associated with post-stroke depression, including pro-inflammatory factors (interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, interleukin-8, interleukin-18, tumor necrosis factor-α, and interferon-γ), anti-inflammatory factors (interleukin-4, interleukin-10, and transforming growth factor-β1), and other nonspecific factors (C-reactive protein, neopterin, adiponectin, NLRP3 inflammasome, matrix metalloproteinase 9, growth differentiation factor-15, and serum amyloid A. Antagonizing the expression of pro-inflammatory factors or supplementing exogenous anti-inflammatory factors is beneficial to the relief of the symptoms of post-stroke depression, while anti-post-stroke depression treatment can cause changes of inflammatory factors in serum. Inflammatory factors participate in the occurrence and development of post-stroke depression by interacting with their own receptors, intracellular signaling pathways, neurotransmitters or hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Detection of serum inflammatory markers or gene polymorphism has an important predictive value for the diagnosis of post-stroke depression. However, the related research is still very scattered, and there is a lack of systematic multi-level and high-quality research. The construction of standardized animal models of post-stroke depression is helpful to further explain its pathophysiological mechanism, and the multicenter and large sample longitudinal clinical research is conductive to establish a reliable prediction model of post-stroke depression. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Application of platelet-rich plasma in neuropathic pain Kan Houming, Fan Lijun, Chen Xuetai, Shen Wen 2022, 26 (8):  1286-1292.  doi: 10.12307/2022.237 Abstract ( 730 )   PDF (751KB) ( 311 )   Save BACKGROUND: There is no specific treatment method for neuropathic pain. Patients suffer from chronic pain for a long time, which seriously affects the quality of life of patients. Platelet-rich plasma releases a variety of biologically active factors, has nerve repair and pain relief effects, and has great potential in neuropathic pain applications. OBJECTIVE: To discuss the principles of neuropathic pain and the theoretical basis of platelet-rich plasma in the treatment of neuropathic pain, expound the application of platelet-rich plasma in different types of neuropathic pain, in order to provide new ideas and methods for clinical treatment of neuropathic pain. METHODS: Using “platelet rich plasma, neuropathic pain, nerve injury, neuralgia” as search terms, VIP, WanFang, CNKI, Web of Science and PubMed databases were retrieved for relevant articles published from 1954 to February 2021. Finally, 107 articles eligible for the inclusion and exclusion criteria were included for result analysis. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Platelet-rich plasma has the potential to promote healing and anti-inflammation. It can repair damaged nerve tissues and effectively relieve pain. Platelet-rich plasma is an important treatment for neuropathic pain and has a bright future. The preparation method of platelet-rich plasma is still controversial, and there is a call for the establishment of standardized preparation methods and unified ingredient evaluation standards. Increasing studies on platelet-rich plasma has been made in the fields of spinal cord injury, peripheral nerve injury, and nerve compression. Further exploration is still needed on the application of platelet-rich plasma in the mechanism and clinical efficacy of other types of neuropathic pain. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: from enthesis to tendon-to-bone healing Wu Bingshuang, Wang Zhi, Tang Yi, Tang Xiaoyu, Li Qi 2022, 26 (8):  1293-1298.  doi: 10.12307/2022.238 Abstract ( 916 )   PDF (632KB) ( 238 )   Save BACKGROUND: At present, tendon-to-bone healing after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is still the key factor affecting tendon and bone healing. There have been relevant basic research and clinical research reports; however, there is still a lack of relevant reviews. OBJECTIVE: To summarize the microanatomical structure, mechanical and distribution characteristics of related biological factors of tendon-bone enthesis of the ACL and to discuss the research progress in tendon-to-bone healing after ACL reconstruction. METHODS: We searched PubMed, Embase, and Medline databases for relevant literature published within 10 years using the keywords, including “ACL, tendon-to-bone healing, ligament reconstruction,” and matched Mesh terms. We therefore reviewed the structural characteristics of the tendon-bone enthesis of the ACL and summarized the current research progress in clinical tendon-to-bone healing. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Studies have shown that the femoral and humeral entheses of the ACL are direct entheses, transitioning from fibrocartilage to osseous tissue. The fibrocartilage layer is thicker on the femoral side than on the tibial side and larger on the anterior medial bundle, which is related to the mechanical stimulation during development. In addition, there is a certain law for the transition of molecules and proteins from tendonous structure to osseous tissue, which is mainly present with type I collagen in the tendon, type II collagen at the attachment point, and then type I collagen in bone tissue. Currently, tendon-to-bone healing is mainly enhanced by biological factors such as platelet-rich plasma. The surgical method and the graft fixation method have been developed to promote tendon-to-bone healing by modifying the mechanical environment or using tissue engineering. However, the results are still somewhat different. By studying the basic level of native ACL enthesis, the surgical reconstruction method can be improved accordingly in order to restore its original healing and mechanical function. In clinical research, studies on the use of biological factors, surgical improvements, and the introduction of new materials have gradually increased, but there is still a lack of relatively systematic verification. In the future, it should be further verified from molecular, protein, cell, and animal experiments to clinical randomized controlled trials. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Ankle-foot orthoses improve motor function of children with cerebral palsy: a Meta-analysis based on 12 randomized controlled trials Liu Gang, Ma Chao, Wang Le, Zeng Jie, Jiao Yong, Zhao Yi, Ren Jingpei, Hu Chuanyu, Xu Lin, Mu Xiaohong 2022, 26 (8):  1299-1304.  doi: 10.12307/2022.239 Abstract ( 676 )   PDF (805KB) ( 73 )   Save OBJECTIVE: Cerebral palsy seriously affects children's physical and mental health due to its high morbidity and disability rate. Ankle-foot orthoses are an important treatment for this disease. However, it is not very clear about the clinical effect of ankle-foot orthoses on the motor function of children with cerebral palsy. Therefore, this paper systematically assesses the clinical effect of ankle-foot orthoses on the improvement of motor function in children with cerebral palsy. METHODS: Literature retrieval was carried out in the electronic databases of PubMed, EMbase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, CBM, CNKI, WanFang, and VIP. The time limit for retrieval was from the establishment of these databases to September 9, 2020. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, randomized controlled trials of ankle-foot orthoses in the treatment of children with cerebral palsy were included. At least two evaluators extracted the data independently and used Cochrane 5.1.0 bias risk assessment tool to evaluate the quality of included studies. The data were analyzed by Revman 5.3 software. RESULTS: In the end, a total of 12 randomized controlled trials with high quality, involving 480 children with cerebral palsy, were included in this study. Among them, 239 patients in the ankle-foot orthosis group wore ankle-foot orthosis; 241 patients in the control group did not wear ankle-foot orthosis. The treatment course was 0-48 weeks. Meta-analysis results showed that the improvement of Gross Motor Function Measure-88-D/E score (mean difference (MD)=6.26, 95% confidence interval (CI):3.54-8.98, P < 0.000 01), modified Ashworth scale score (MD=-0.60, 95%CI: -0.80 to -0.40, P < 0.000 01), dorsiflexion mean in swing (MD=14.96, 95%CI: 12.03-17.90, P < 0.000 01), effectiveness in improving motor function (MD=2.99, 95%CI: 1.19-7.50, P=0.02), and stride length (MD=0.06, 95%CI: 0.04-0.09, P < 0.000 01) in the ankle-foot orthosis group was better than that in the control group.  CONCLUSION: Evidence from these 12 randomized controlled trials indicates that no matter walking with ankle-foot orthosis, or walking without ankle-foot orthosis after wearing for a certain period of time, in the short time, it has remarkable clinical value in improving motor function. However, further studies on the long-term recovery of motor function are required. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics