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18 December 2022, Volume 26 Issue 35 Previous Issue    Next Issue

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The mechanism of lncRNA HOTAIR in interleukin-1beta-mediated osteoarthritis Zhou Liang, Chen Xingzhen, Li Zhenyu, Zhang Zekun, Duan Guoqing 2022, 26 (35):  5607-5613.  doi: 10.12307/2022.1008 Abstract ( 478 )   PDF (1229KB) ( 145 )   Save BACKGROUND: The articular cartilage of patients with osteoarthritis and normal human articular cartilage have been studied and found that long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) HOTAIR is significantly up-regulated compared with the control group, which may be related to the occurrence of osteoarthritis. OBJECTIVE: To explore the mechanism of lncRNA HOTAIR in interleukin-1β-mediated osteoarthritis. METHODS: (1) Clinical grouping: The medial condyle cartilage samples of 20 patients with arthritis who underwent total knee replacement were selected as experimental group. The articular cartilage samples of seven patients with lower extremity amputation or undergoing total hip arthroplasty due to femoral neck fracture were selected as control group. (2) Animal grouping: Forty-eight Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into osteoarthritis group (n=36) and normal control group (n=12). Animal models of knee osteoarthritis were made in the osteoarthritis group. (3) Cell testing and treatment: The rat articular chondrocytes (RCCs-1) cultured in vitro were divided into control group, interleukin-1β group (the best mass concentration of 10 μg/L was selected to simulate osteoarthritis environment), small interfering RNA (siRNA) group, interleukin-1β+siRNA group. Except for the control group with no special treatment, the other groups were treated with corresponding solutions and cultured for 48 hours. (4) Detection indicators: At 4, 6, and 8 weeks after modeling, the rat femurs were collected for pathological observation using hematoxylin-eosin staining. RT-PCR was used to analyze the mRNA expression of lncRNA HOTAIR in interleukin-1β-mediated rat chondrocytes, rat articular cartilage, and the articular cartilage of patients. Chondrocyte viability was detected by cell counting kit-8 method. Expression of type II collagen in chondrocytes was detected by western blot. Apoptosis of chondrocytes was detected by flow cytometry. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The chondrocytes of the rats in the normal control group were neatly arranged, the cartilage structure was clear, and the tide line was complete. In the osteoarthritis group, the cartilage structure became more disordered over time, the number of chondrocytes was significantly reduced, the cartilage matrix was decolorized, and the tide line was badly disordered. (2) lncRNA HOTAIR expression was increased in the chondrocytes of both patients and rats with osteoarthritis. (3) Interleukin-1β reduced the viability of chondrocytes and increased the HOTAIR expression in rat knee joint. (4) HOTAIR inhibited the viability of chondrocytes and the expression of type II collagen in rat knee joint. (5) The expression of HOTAIR promoted apoptosis in chondrocytes. (6) To conclude, inhibition of HOTAIR-mediated chondrocyte apoptosis may be the potential mechanism of gene therapy for knee osteoarthritis. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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miRNA screening for targeted regulation of bone growth by semen ziziphi spinosae extract Luo Shiren, Xie Yan, Zhang Li, Yin Na 2022, 26 (35):  5658-5664.  doi: 10.12307/2022.886 Abstract ( 403 )   PDF (991KB) ( 156 )   Save BACKGROUND: Growth hormone is secreted during slow-wave sleep in large proportion, and the initiation and prolongation of slow-wave sleep is closely linked with serotonin. Previous studies have shown that semen ziziphi spinosae extract can increase the expression of serotonin 1A receptor. The combination of serotonin 1A receptor and serotonin can prolong slow-wave sleep, thereby promoting the secretion of growth hormone and bone growth. In addition, semen ziziphi spinosae extract can down-regulate the expression of serotonin 2A receptor in brain tissue, which can promote the combination of serotonin 1A receptor and serotonin, thereby promoting the prolongation of slow-wave sleep, the secretion of growth hormone, and bone growth. OBJECTIVE: To prove that semen ziziphi spinosae extract can promote bone growth in mice by down-regulating the expression of serotonin 2A receptor and to screen miRNAs targeting serotonin 2A receptor and promoting bone growth. METHODS: (1) Kunming mice were divided into blank control group, high- and low-dose groups of semen ziziphi spinosae extract (hereinafter referred to as high- and low-dose groups), positive control group, and serotonin 2A receptor selective inhibitor group (hereinafter referred to as inhibitor group), with 10 mice in each group. Mice in the blank control group were gavaged with deionized water every day, the high- and low-dose groups were gavaged with 0.16 and 0.32 mg/g semen ziziphi spinosae extract suspension respectively, the positive control group was gavaged with semen ziziphi spinosae saponin A standard solution, and the inhibitor group was gavaged with semen ziziphi spinosae extract aqueous solution. Gavage was administered to each group at the same period, and 10 μg of M100907 was injected into the lateral ventricle of each mouse once a day for the last 3 days. Changes in the body length of mice were observed, and changes in the expression of serum growth hormone and brain tissue serotonin 2A receptor were observed by ELISA. (2) Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into blank control group, medication group (given semen ziziphi spinosae extract), positive control group and serotonin 2A receptor selective inhibitor group (hereinafter referred to as the inhibitor group). The effects of drugs on slow-wave sleep were observed at the 3rd day after intragastric administration. (3) The chip method was used to detect the differentially expressed miRNAs in the brain tissues of mice with bone growth and ordinary mice. The miRNAs targeting serotonin 2A receptor were selected and verified by real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) After 25 days of treatment, the body length of mice in the high-dose group was significantly longer than that in the blank control group (P < 0.01). The serum growth hormone level of mice was significantly higher in the high-dose group than the blank control and inhibitor groups (P < 0.01, P < 0.01). Compared with the inhibitor group, semen ziziphi spinosae extract significantly lowered the expression of serotonin 2A receptor in brain tissue (P < 0.01). (2) The duration of slow-wave sleep in the medication and positive control groups was longer than that in the blank control group (P < 0.01, P < 0.01) and in the inhibitor group (P < 0.05, P < 0.05). There was no difference in the effects of drugs on paradoxical sleep periods. (3) A total of 16 differentially expressed miRNAs met the screening conditions, 13 of which were up-regulated and 3 were down-regulated. (4) It was verified by real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR that the up-regulated miR-34a-5p could regulate serotonin 2A receptor. (5) All these findings indicate that semen ziziphi spinosae extract can inhibit the expression of serotonin 2A receptor and prolong slow-wave sleep, thereby increasing the secretion of growth hormone and promoting bone growth in mice. The possible mechanism is that semen ziziphi spinosae extract up-regulates the expression of miR-34a-5p which results in the lowered expression of serotonin 2A receptor. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effect of teriparatide combined with risedronate sodium on bone metabolism in patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures Zhai Xiao, Yang Xinming, Liu Fanghong, Sun Jianwei 2022, 26 (35):  5685-5692.  doi: 10.12307/2022.929 Abstract ( 792 )   PDF (1051KB) ( 534 )   Save BACKGROUND: Osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture can lead to an increase in the rate of recurrence of adjacent vertebrae fractures after vertebroplasty. Osteoporosis is an independent risk factor leading to recurrence of fractures, so it is a clinical hot issue to select anti-osteoporotic drugs with better curative effects for postoperative treatment.  OBJECTIVE: To explore the effect of teriparatide combined with risedronate sodium after vertebroplasty in patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures.  METHODS: 151 patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures, aged 50-75 years, were enrolled from the Handan Branch, Fengfeng General Hospital of North China Healthcare Group from September 2018 to October 2020. All the patients were randomly divided into four groups according to the random number table method, namely control group (n=28; oral calcium), risedronate sodium group (n=41; oral calcium+oral risedronate sodium), teriparatide group (n=41; oral calcium+subcutaneous injection of teriparatide) and combination therapy group (n=41; oral calcium+oral risedronate sodium+subcutaneous injection of teriparatide). After 6 months of treatment, visual analog scale score, Oswestry dysfunction index, bone mineral density, and serum bone metabolism indexes were evaluated. Adverse reactions and incidence of refractures were recorded.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with baseline data, the visual analog scale score, Oswestry dysfunction index, serum bone metabolism level, and bone mineral density were significantly improved in the four groups after treatment (P < 0.05). After 6 months of treatment, the combination therapy group achieved the best therapeutic effects and had lower visual analog scale score and Oswestry dysfunction index, higher bone mineral density, and lower β-degradation product level at the carboxyl end of type I collagen than the other three groups (all P < 0.05). The combination therapy showed significantly better therapeutic effects than the other three groups at different age stages. There was no significant difference in the therapeutic effect between men and women under the same medication method. There was also no significant difference among the four groups within the same fracture time. Both teriparatide and risedronate sodium only caused mild or moderate symptoms, such as vomiting, palpitations, headache or dizziness, in a small number of patients, and 151 patients showed no obvious abnormality in liver and kidney functions. Incidence of refractures was 7.14% in the control group, 7.32% in the risedronate sodium group, 7.32% in the teriparatide group, and 4.88% in the combination therapy group, and there was no significant difference between the four groups (P > 0.05). For patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures, therefore, the combined use of teriparatide and risedronate sodium is highly safe that can effectively improve patients’ quality of life and bone metabolism, reduce pain, and improve bone mineral density. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effect of warm acupuncture on PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in articular cartilage of a rabbit knee osteoarthritis model Wu Yongli, Liu Di, Wang Duo, Liu Junwei, Ma Yuyuan 2022, 26 (35):  5596-5601.  doi: 10.12307/2022.911 Abstract ( 931 )   PDF (1468KB) ( 688 )   Save BACKGROUND: Warm acupuncture is an effective treatment for knee osteoarthritis; however, the therapeutic mechanism is not clear OBJECTIVE: To observe the effects of warm acupuncture on PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and expression of downstream factors Bcl-2 and Bax in the articular cartilage of a rabbit model of knee osteoarthritis. METHODS: Forty 6-month-old New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into blank group, model group, glucosamine sulfate group and warm acupuncture group, with 10 rabbits in each group. The blank group was not modeled, and in the other three groups, the knee joint of the rabbit right hindlimb was immobilized in extension position using a plaster tube for 4 weeks to prepare the rabbit knee osteoarthritis model. After successful modeling, the blank group was not interfered. The rabbits in the model group were fixed in the rabbit frame for 15 minutes daily, those in the glucosamine sulfate group were treated with glucosamine sulfate by gavage at 77 mg/kg daily, and those in the warm acupuncture group were treated with warm acupuncture for 15 minutes daily, for 28 continuous days in total. After the intervention, hematoxylin-eosin staining was performed to observe the severity of cartilage damage. Cell apoptosis in chondrocytes was observed using TUNEL assay. mRNA and protein expressions of PI3K, Akt, Bcl-2 and Bax in cartilage tissue were detected by RT-PCR and western blot, respectively. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The model group had a rough surface of articular cartilage, disordered arrangement and reduced number of chondrocytes, and significantly increased Mankin score, while the glucosamine sulfate and warm acupuncture groups showed increased number of chondrocytes, deeply stained matrix, and reduced Mankin score. Compared with the blank group, the apoptotic rate of chondrocytes was significantly increased in the model group (P < 0.05). Compared with the model group, the apoptotic rate of chondrocytes was significantly decreased in the glucosamine sulfate and warm acupuncture groups (P < 0.05). Compared with the blank group, the mRNA and protein expressions of PI3K, Akt and Bcl-2 were significantly decreased and the mRNA and protein expressions of Bax were significantly increased in the model group (P < 0.05). Compared with the model group, mRNA and protein expressions of PI3K, Akt and Bcl-2 were significantly increased and the mRNA and protein expressions of Bax were significantly decreased in the glucosamine sulfate and warm acupuncture groups (P < 0.05). To conclude, warm acupuncture can increase the expression of bcl-2 and decrease the expression of Bax by regulating PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, and then inhibit the excessive apoptosis of chondrocytes to protect articular cartilage. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Melatonin effect on the activity of mouse ATDC5 cells Sun Jinpeng, Liu Jun, Bai Yunfeng, Hua Feng, Wang Haoran, Zheng Hongrui, Wu Tao 2022, 26 (35):  5665-5668.  doi: 10.12307/2022.936 Abstract ( 509 )   PDF (828KB) ( 156 )   Save BACKGROUND: Human primary chondrocytes extracted from adolescent iliac cartilage are currently used in the study of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. However, research on adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is largely limited due to parental concerns and ethical restrictions. Therefore, it is of great scientific and social significance to find a kind of cells that can replace human primary chondrocytes in the study of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. OBJECTIVE: To study the activity, receptor and signaling pathway changes of ATDC5 cells stimulated by melatonin, and to explore whether ATDC5 cells can be used to replace human chondrocytes in comparison with the response of human chondrocytes under melatonin stimulation. METHODS: (1) ATDC5 cells were seeded into 96-well plates and stimulated by melatonin at different concentrations (10-5, 10-6, 10-7, 10-8, 10-9, 10-10, 10-11, 10-12 mol/L). Cells without melatonin stimulation were used as the control. After 72 hours of culture, the proliferation rate of ATDC5 cells was detected by MTT method. (2) ATDC5 cells were seeded into 96-well plates. The control group was not stimulated with melatonin, and the experimental group was stimulated with 10-5 mol/L melatonin. After culture for 24 hours, the protein expression of melatonin receptor and AMPK pathway was detected by western blot assay.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: After melatonin stimulation, the proliferative rate of ATDC5 cells was increased with melatonin concentration increasing. After melatonin stimulation, the protein expressions of type II collagen, p-AMPK and melatonin receptor 1B in the experimental group were higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05), while there was no significant difference in the protein expressions of AMPK and melatonin receptor 1A between the two groups (P > 0.05). Therefore, melatonin can promote the proliferation of mouse ATDC5 cells, and the proliferation rate is similar to that of human chondrocytes stimulated by melatonin at the same concentration, suggesting there is a possibility that mouse chondrocyte ATDC5 can be a substitute of human chondrocytes. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effect of mandibular advancement device on mitochondrial ultrastructure of the genioglossus in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea Yuan Xixi, Zhao Zirui, Zhang Yanyan, Huang Yu, Shi Kaikai, Fan Dengying, Zhu Yahui, Liu Chunyan 2022, 26 (35):  5626-5632.  doi: 10.12307/2022.913 Abstract ( 352 )   PDF (1407KB) ( 220 )   Save BACKGROUND: At present, the common treatment method for obstructive sleep apnea is mandibular advancement device. Scholars have reached a consensus that the abnormality of the genioglossus muscle can cause obstructive sleep apnea. However, insufficient attention has been paid to the mechanism that causes genioglossus muscle damage and dysfunction and the impact of relevant treatment methods on the genioglossus muscle.  OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of mandibular advancement device for obstructive sleep apnea on the genioglossus ultrastructure and explore whether oxidative stress pathway is the mechanism of obstructive sleep apnea causing skeletal muscle structure and function disorders.  METHODS: Thirty rabbits were divided into three groups: control, obstructive sleep apnea, and mandibular advancement device groups. Rabbit models of obstructive sleep apnea were established in the latter two groups. Three days after modeling, all rabbits were induced to sleep in supine position. CT scans were performed to examine the changes in upper airway structure and polysomnography was used to monitor changes in blood oxygen saturation and respiratory sleep index. After 8 weeks, the ultrastructure of the genioglossus muscle was detected under transmission electron microscope. The level of malondialdehyde in the genioglossus muscle was measured by the thiobarbituric acid method, and the levels of 8-isoprostaglandin in the plasma and genioglossus muscle were measured by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. The level of glutathione and activities of catalase, total superoxide dismutase, copper-zinc superoxide dismutase, manganese superoxide dismutase, and succinate dehydrogenase were measured in strict accordance with the kit instructions.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The morphology and structure of genioglossus mitochondria were normal in the control group, and were seriously damaged in the obstructive sleep apnea group. Compared with the control group, the obstructive sleep apnea group had a higher level of  8-isoprostaglandin (P < 0.05); the level of malondialdehyde was increased significantly in the obstructive sleep apnea group compared with the other two groups (P < 0.05); the activities of total superoxide dismutase, copper-zinc superoxide dismutase and manganese superoxide dismutase decreased significantly in the obstructive sleep apnea group compared with the other two groups (P < 0.05); glutathione level and the activities of catalase and succinate dehydrogenase decreased significantly in the obstructive sleep apnea group compared with the control group (P < 0.05). However, there were no significant differeces between mandibular advancement device group and control group (P < 0.05). To conclude, obstructive sleep apnea -induced genioglossus mitochondria damage is related to oxidative stress. Mandibular advancement device can prevent or alleviate the damage of mitochondrial structure caused by obstructive sleep apnea. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Finite element study on the effect of canine distal movement on anterior tooth intrusion by clear aligners Chen Lin, Xu Xiaomei, Zhang Li, Xu Pengfei, Zheng Qian 2022, 26 (35):  5669-5675.  doi: 10.12307/2022.1011 Abstract ( 535 )   PDF (1944KB) ( 243 )   Save BACKGROUND: When invisible appliances are used in tooth extraction, canine distal movement is a retraction pattern that is beneficial to save the anchorage of posterior teeth and resist the arch effect of braces. However, canine distal movement changes the wrapping of braces around the teeth and the vacuole elasticity due to tooth extraction using the appliance, and relieves the constraint to the movement of adjacent teeth, which may have an impact on anterior tooth intrusion. OBJECTIVE: To study the effect of canine distal movement on anterior tooth intrusion in invisible orthodontic treatment by using finite element method  METHODS: The mandibular finite element model of the subtractive first premolar was established, including teeth, periodontal ligament, alveolar bone, invisible appliance, and accessories. Step-by-step intrusion of the anterior teeth was conducted through simulation of clinical canine distal movement. In control group, the canines did not move. In experimental group 1, the canines moved 1 mm away, while in experimental group 2, the canines moved 1/3 of the extraction space. The effect of canine distal movement on anterior tooth intrusion was analyzed.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The maximum anterior tooth intrusion occurred in the experimental group 1, with the vertical displacement of the canine incisal edge by 0.017 867 0 mm, the vertical displacement of the central incisor by 0.009 647 0 mm, and the vertical displacement of the lateral incisor by 0.007 777 5 mm. The minimum anterior tooth intrusion occurred in the control group, with the vertical displacement of the canine incisal edge by 0.008 195 3 mm, the vertical displacement of the central incisor by 0.005 238 0 mm, and the vertical displacement of the lateral incisor by 0.005 689 2 mm. In the experimental group 2, the canine incisal edge moved 0.014 463 0 mm vertically, the central incisor moved 0.009 294 7 mm vertically, and the lateral incisor moved 0.007 013 9 mm vertically. In all cases, the von Mises stress of anchorage molars was smallest, the displacement of the incisor edge was greater than that of the root apex, and the stress appeared differently between the labial and lingual sides of the periodontal ligament. To conclude, canine distal movement can improve intrusion in the anterior teeth by appliance. However, different distal displacement has different effects on anterior tooth movement. The closer the anchor tooth is to the target tooth, the greater the force is, and vice versa. Invisible orthodontic treatment is mainly for inclined and intruded anterior teeth.  Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Tendon injury and repair of the hand: analysis of epidemiological factors in 737 cases Chen Dongsheng, Jia Qiyu, Abudusalamu·Alimujiang, Guo Jian, Feng Dongwei, Wu Tong, Ma Chuang 2022, 26 (35):  5676-5684.  doi: 10.12307/2022.915 Abstract ( 578 )   PDF (976KB) ( 955 )   Save BACKGROUND: There is a lack of epidemiological investigations on tendon injuries of the hand at both a domestic and international level. The population of flexor and extensor tendon injuries from Xinjiang has been on the rise in recent years. However, a more complete epidemiological investigation of their injury, treatment, and even prognosis has not been reported. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the prevalence trends and prognostic distribution characteristics of patients with hand tendon injuries, to investigate the prognostic functional recovery of patients with hand tendon injuries, to provide targeted population interventions and improve the intervention effects, and to explore the correlation between flexor and extensor tendon injury factors and prognosis. METHODS: Clinical data of patients with hand tendon injuries in the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University from January 2012 to December 2019 were collected by uniformly compiling an epidemiological questionnaire on hand tendon injuries in Xinjiang. The patients’ personal information, cause of injury, time of injury, season of injury, type of injured tendon, injury tendon zones, injured hand, injury comorbidity, excellent rate of total active motion of the fingers after treatment, and postoperative complications were collected. A retrospective analysis of the above information and their correlations was performed and epidemiological characterization of tendon injuries of the hand was performed. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) There were significant differences in the distribution of patients by sex and age (P < 0.05), with the most patients aged 21-30 years old and more male patients than female patients (5.30:1). (2) There were significant differences in the distribution of causes of injury (P < 0.05), with glass cuts being the highest, accounting for 24.4%. (3) The number of injury cases increased yearly (P < 0.01), and there was a significant difference in the seasonal distribution of injury time (P < 0.01), with the most injury cases in summer (35.7%). (4) There was a significant difference in the distribution of flexor and extensor tendons and hands (P < 0.05), with more right-handed than left-handed (1.05:1). (5) There was a significant difference in the distribution of flexor and extensor tendons and comorbidities (P < 0.05), flexor tendon injury was prone to nerve and vascular injury, and extensor tendon injury was prone to fracture of the hand. (6) The postoperative tendon adhesion rate in patients with hand tendon injury was 8.8%, and the rates of tendon adhesion and joint stiffness after functional exercise were significantly lower than those in patients without functional exercise (P < 0.05). The postoperative excellent rate of total active motion was significantly higher in patients with functional exercise than those without functional exercise (P < 0.01). (7) All these findings suggest that there is a certain distribution pattern of inpatients with hand tendon injuries in terms of sex, age, cause of injury, time of injury, injury tendon zones, flexor and extensor tendon types, comorbidity and post-treatment tendon adhesion rate, joint stiffness rate, and total active motion excellent rate. Further research will be conducted on the prevention and treatment strategies of tendon injuries and post-treatment tendon adhesions in the hand. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Changes in irisin, leptin, adiponectin and visceral fat in obese rats undergoing high-intensity intermittent exercise Lin Jiayu, Huang Huibin, Liang Bo, Chen Lijun 2022, 26 (35):  5583-5588.  doi: 10.12307/2022.924 Abstract ( 559 )   PDF (868KB) ( 299 )   Save BACKGROUND: Exercise induces the secretion of muscle factors, such as irisin, which regulates the browning process of white adipose tissue and may contribute to the treatment of obesity. Exercise-mediated browning effects are related to exercise intensity and high-intensity intermittent exercise is superior to moderate-intensity continuous training in inducing adipose tissue browning. OBJECTIVE: To observe the effects of different exercise interventions on irisin, leptin, adiponectin and visceral fat in obese rats.  METHODS: Fifty male SPF Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into normal control group (n=10) and obese model group (n=40). Changes in body mass were recorded for 10 weeks. Thirty rats with higher body mass were selected from the successful modeling rats and randomly divided into three groups (n=10 per group): obese quiet control group, obese moderate-intensity continuous exercise group and obese high-intensity intermittent exercise group. The two exercise groups were subjected to moderate-intensity continuous exercise or high-intensity intermittent exercise. The body mass, visceral fat, blood glucose, blood lipids, blood irisin, leptin and adiponectin levels in the obese rats were measured after different exercise interventions.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The body mass of the rats in the obese model group increased significantly compared with that of the normal control group (P < 0.01). The final body mass of the high-intensity intermittent exercise group was significantly lower than that of the moderate-intensity continuous exercise group (P < 0.01). (2) The Lee’s index of the obese quiet control group was significantly higher than that of the normal control group (P < 0.01) and the Lee’s index of the high-intensity intermittent exercise group was significantly lower than that of the obese quiet control group (P < 0.01). However, there was no significant difference between the high-intensity intermittent exercise group and the normal control group (P > 0.05). (3) The fat content of the obese quiet control group was significantly higher than that of the normal control group, moderate-intensity continuous exercise group and high-intensity intermittent exercise group (all P < 0.01). (4) The results of serological analysis showed that fasting blood glucose in the obese quiet control group was significantly higher than that in the normal control group (P < 0.01). During high-fat feeding, the blood glucose level was significantly lower in the moderate-intensity continuous exercise group and high-intensity intermittent exercise group than the obese quiet control group (both P < 0.01). (5) Triglyceride, cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein levels in the obese quiet control group were significantly higher than those in the normal control group (all P < 0.01). Compared with the obese quiet control group, the moderate-intensity continuous exercise significantly decreased the levels of triglycerides, cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (all P < 0.01), while the high-intensity intermittent exercise significantly downregulated the levels of triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P < 0.05). (6) Serum irisin and adiponectin levels were significantly decreased and leptin level was significantly increased in the obese quiet control group (all P < 0.01), while serum irisin and leptin levels were significantly increased in the moderate-intensity continuous exercise group and high-intensity intermittent exercise group (all P < 0.01). (7) Triglycerides, leptin, and final body mass were positively correlated with total fat mass (r=0.959, 0.842, 0.923, all P < 0.01), and irisin and adiponectin levels were negatively correlated with total fat mass (r=-0.720, -0.669, both P < 0.01). (8) To conclude, high-fat diet could increase body mass and visceral fat, decrease serum irisin and adiponectin levels, and increase leptin level in rats. Exercise training could reduce visceral fat, improve blood glucose and lipid metabolism, regulate leptin and adiponectin levels, and increase serum irisin level in obese rats. Moreover, the high-intensity intermittent exercise has a better effect on fat loss in obese rats.  Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Inhibiting NADPH oxidase alleviates hepatocellular injury and lipid metabolism disorder in a mouse model of alcoholic liver damage Cui Wei, Cui Di, Ouyang Ting, Li Xiang, Wei Huiting, Xue Weiyue, Zhou Gang, Qiu Ye 2022, 26 (35):  5589-5595.  doi: 10.12307/2022.912 Abstract ( 486 )   PDF (1673KB) ( 325 )   Save BACKGROUND: Studies have shown NADPH oxidase (NOX) protein expression will up-regulate in the myocardium, skeletal muscle, kidney, and brain under stress conditions. However, its role in alcoholic liver damage is still unclear. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the role of NOX-mediated oxidative stress in normal liver tissue and alcoholic liver damage. METHODS: (1) Six male C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into normal control group and normal drug group, with three mice in each group. Mice in the normal drug group were intraperitoneally injected with 10 mg/kg apocynin for 4 consecutive days, while those in the normal control group were injected with the same dose of solvent. Lipid metabolism-related indexes in serum and liver tissue of mice were detected, and the protein expressions of NOX2 and NOX4 in liver tissue were determined. (2) Another 18 male C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into common control group, alcoholic control group, alcoholic drug group, with 6 mice in each group. Mice in the common control group were given TP4030C, while those in the other two groups were given Lieber-DeCarli liquid diet to construct animal models of alcohol-induced hepatocellular injury. During the modeling, mice in the alcoholic drug group were intraperitoneally injected with 10 mg/kg apocynin, 6 days a week, for 5 continuous weeks, while those in the other two groups were injected with the same dose of solvent. (3) Body mass, epididymal fat relative mass, liver index and relative mass of the skeletal muscle were recorded or calculated. Glucose tolerance test was used to detect insulin sensitivity, and serum liver function and lipid metabolism indexes were measured. Levels of malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were determined. Pathological changes of the liver were observed using hematoxylin-eosin staining. Western blot assay was applied to detect NOX2 and NOX4 protein expression in liver tissue.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the normal control group, the content of triglycerides in liver tissue and the levels of serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase in serum were significantly increased, while high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level and the expression of NOX2 and NOX4 in liver tissue decreased significantly in the normal drug group (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). Compared with the common control group, the relative content of epididymal fat and the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in both serum and liver tissue were significantly decreased in the alcoholic control group, while triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in liver tissue, serum alanine aminotransferase level and NOX4 protein expression were significantly increased in the alcoholic control group. Compared with the alcoholic control group, the alcoholic drug group had a significant increase in the high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in the serum and liver tissue but had a significant decrease in serum alanine aminotransferase level and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level and NOX4 protein expression in liver tissue. In conclusion, inhibiting NOX alleviates alcohol-induced hepatocellular injury and lipid metabolism disorder; apocynin has different effects on liver physiological and pathological states of alcoholic liver damage. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Heat-sensitive moxibustion at the Sanjiao meridian of hand-Shaoyang in psoriatic rats Chen Chu, Ouyang Hougan, Qi Yanzhe, Zhu Xuying, Wang Zi 2022, 26 (35):  5602-5606.  doi: 10.12307/2022.838 Abstract ( 468 )   PDF (1151KB) ( 282 )   Save BACKGROUND: Heat-sensitive moxibustion is confirmed to be effective in the treatment of psoriasis, but the specific mechanism is still unclear. OBJECTIVE: To explore the effect of heat-sensitive moxibustion on psoriasis rats and its mechanism. METHODS: Sixty healthy Sprague-Dawley rats aged 8-10 weeks were randomly divided into blank control group (n=15), model group (n=15), and treatment group (n=30). Except for the blank group, animal models of psoriatic lesions were made on the back and the skin along the Sanjiao meridian of hand-Shaoyang. After successful modeling, the treatment group was treated with heat-sensitive moxibustion at Waiguan point of the Sanjiao meridian of hand-Shaoyang at the same time every day, 40 minutes once, for 7 continuous days. The treatment group was subdivided into heat-sensitive moxibustion group (n=15) and moxibustion group (n=15) according to the changes of tail temperature in the daily moxibustion process. After treatment, the rats in each group were scored by the psoriasis area and severity index (PASI), and after treatment, the protein expressions of JAK3, STAT3, p-JAK3, and p-STAT3 in the skin and fascia of Waiguan point were detected by western blot assay. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The PASI scores in the moxibustion group and heat-sensitive moxibustion group were lower than that in the model group, while the PASI score in the heat-sensitive moxibustion group was lower than that in the moxibustion group and there was no significant difference between groups. Compared with the model group, the protein expressions of p-JAK3 and p-STAT3 in the fascia of Waiguan point were significantly decreased (P < 0.05), and the protein expression of p-JAK3 in the skin of Waiguan point was also significantly reduced in the moxibustion group (P < 0.05). Compared with the model group, the protein expressions of JAK3, STAT3, p-JAK3, and p-STAT in the fascia and skin of Waiguan point were significantly decreased in the heat-sensitive moxibustion group (P < 0.05). Compared with the moxibustion group, the protein expression of STAT3 in the fascia of Waiguan point was significantly reduced in the heat-sensitive moxibustion group (P < 0.05). To conclude, both moxibustion and heat-sensitive moxibustion can improve the skin lesions of psoriatic rats and inhibit the inflammation of psoriasis. Furthermore, heat-sensitive moxibustion has a better efficacy than moxibustion, and its mechanism may be related to the inhibition of STAT3 signal pathway. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Mechanism of electroacupuncture at Zusanli against myocardial injury in rats with sepsis Geng Huan, Luo Zhendong, Sun Fangyuan, Meng Jialei, Ma Yuhui, Lei Ming 2022, 26 (35):  5614-5619.  doi: 10.12307/2022.922 Abstract ( 441 )   PDF (1351KB) ( 141 )   Save BACKGROUND: Previous studies have found that acupuncture at Zusanli can reduce the degree of myocardial injury in septic rats, but there are few studies on the mechanism. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of electroacupuncture at Zusanli on myocardial injury in septic rats and its possible mechanism. METHODS: Forty-eight Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into control group, model group, Zusanli group, and non-acupoint group, with 12 rats in each group. The cecal ligation and perforation was used to construct an animal model of myocardial injury in septic rats. In the control group, only the free cecum was exposed without the cecal perforation and ligation. Three hours after modeling, the rats in the electroacupuncture group and the non-acupoint group were treated with electroacupuncture, dilatation waves, 10 Hz, once for 15 minutes, for 3 consecutive treatments. Hematoxylin-eosin staining, TUNEL staining, and ELISA were used to detect myocardial injury conditions and inflammatory factor levels. Western blot was used to detect the expression of Bax, p65, Bcl-2, and IκBα proteins. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the control group, both the model and non-acupoint groups showed myocardial fibrous tissue disorder and significantly increased apoptosis rate of myocardial cells (P < 0.05). Compared with the model group, the electroacupuncture group showed relatively regular cell arrangement and decreased apoptosis rate (P < 0.05). Compared with the control group, serum inflammatory factors interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 and myocardial injury markers creatine kinase isoenzyme-MB and cardiac troponin I levels were significantly increased in the model and non-acupoint groups (P < 0.05). Compared with the model group, serum inflammatory factors interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 and myocardial injury markers creatine kinase isoenzyme-MB and cardiac troponin I levels were significantly reduced in the electroacupuncture group (P < 0.05) but had no significant changes in the non-acupoint group (P > 0.05). Compared with the control group, the protein expressions of Bax, p65, and IκBα were significantly up-regulated, and the expression of Bcl-2 protein was significantly down-regulated (P < 0.05). Compared with the model group, the protein expressions of Bax, p65, and IκBα were significantly down-regulated and the expression of Bcl-2 protein was significantly up-regulated (P < 0.05). To conclude, electroacupuncture at Zusanli can alleviate myocardial injury in septic rats, and its regulatory mechanism may be related to reducing inflammation and regulating the changes in nuclear factor-κB signaling pathway-related protein levels. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effect of electroacupuncture at Shuigou and Baihui acupoints on neuronal apoptosis in cerebral cortex of rats with cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury Liu Danni, Sun Guanghua, Zhou Guijuan, Liu Hongya, Zhou Jun, Tan Jinqu, Huang Xiarong, Peng Ting, Feng Weibin, Luo Fu 2022, 26 (35):  5620-5625.  doi: 10.12307/2022.949 Abstract ( 462 )   PDF (1178KB) ( 386 )   Save BACKGROUND: Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury is commonly seen in patients with ischemic stroke and seriously affects their prognosis, so it is important to explore effective treatments to alleviate ischemia-reperfusion injury. Electroacupuncture can effectively improve the symptoms of neurological deficits in ischemic stroke.  OBJECTIVE: To investigate the neuroprotective effect of electroacupuncture treatment on cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury rats and its effect on neuronal apoptosis in the cerebral cortex.  METHODS: A total of 48 male 3-month-old Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into sham-operated group, model group, and electroacupuncture group, with 16 rats in each group. Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion models were established on the left middle cerebral artery of the rats from the model and electroacupuncture groups: ischemia for 2 hours and reperfusion for 6 hours. In the sham-operated group, only the carotid artery was exposed and dissociated. Then, rats in the electroacupuncture group were subjected to electroacupuncture at Baihui and Shuigou acupoints with sparse and dense waves at 3 Hz/15 Hz,  1 mA, for 20 minutes, once a day for 5 continuous days. On the 5th day after modeling, all rats were assessed for neurological impairment using the Longa neurological severity score. triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining was used to determine the infarct volume. Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay was used to detect the level of inflammatory factors. TUNEL was used to detect apoptosis. RT-PCR and western blot were used to detect the expression of Caspase-3 and Caspase-8 at mRNA and protein levels, respectively.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the sham-operated group, in the model group, the neurological severity scores of rats were significantly higher (P < 0.01); the brain infarct volume of rats was significantly higher (P < 0.01); the number of TUNEL-positive cells in the left cerebral cortex of rats was significantly increased (P < 0.01); the levels of serum inflammatory factors interleukin-1β, interleukin-18 and tumor necrosis factor-α were increased (P < 0.05, P < 0.01, P < 0.01); mRNA and protein expressions of Caspase-3 and Caspase-8 in the cerebral cortex of rats were significantly higher (P < 0.01, P < 0.01). Compared with the model group, in the electroacupuncture group, the neurological severity scores of rats were reduced (P < 0.05); the volume of cerebral infarction in rats was reduced (P < 0.05); the number of TUNEL-positive cells in the left cerebral cortex area of rats was significantly reduced (P < 0.01); the levels of serum interleukin-1β, interleukin-18 and tumor necrosis factor-α were reduced (P < 0.01, P < 0.05, P < 0.05); mRNA and protein expressions of Caspase-3 and Caspase-8 in the cerebral cortex area of rats were significantly reduced (P < 0.01, P < 0.01). To conclude, electroacupuncture treatment may exert neuroprotective effects by inhibiting neuronal apoptosis in the rat cerebral cortex and alleviating cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Autophagy level of the mandible in nasal obstruction rats Xu Yixin, Wang Yixin, Li Yongming 2022, 26 (35):  5633-5638.  doi: 10.12307/2022.889 Abstract ( 386 )   PDF (1303KB) ( 253 )   Save BACKGROUND: Autophagy is easily activated under hypoxia and has been demonstrated to regulate bone metabolism. Sleep apnea keeps the body in a state of intermittent hypoxia, and whether sleep apnea-induced hypoxia affects the autophagy levels of mandibular alveolar bone and periodontal ligament has not been reported. OBJECTIVE: To observe the autophagy level in the rat mandible under hypoxic conditions.  METHODS: Thirty 1-week-old male Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups (n=10 per group). In unilateral and bilateral nasal obstruction groups, the left nostril was blocked with high-frequency electrocautery after 30 minutes of anesthesia, and 1 week later, the right nostril in the bilateral nasal obstruction group was blocked using the same method. Rats in control group were with no nostril blocking. Four weeks after the successful modeling of unilateral nasal obstruction, the model rats at the age of 5 weeks were anesthetized and sacrificed, and the mandibles were removed to prepare periodontal bone tissue sections of the mandibular first molar for hematoxylin-eosin staining and LC3 immunohistochemical staining. Localization of the stained sections was quantified using the image-J image analysis system. Western blot assay was used to detect the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α and autophagy-related protein p62 in mandibular alveolar bone, as well as the ratio of autophagy marker protein LC3 isoforms LC3-II/LC3-I. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Hematoxylin-eosin staining results revealed disordered arrangement of trabecules of the mandibular alveolar bone in the unilateral and bilateral nasal obstruction groups. Immunohistochemical results indicated an increased expression of LC3 in the alveolar bone cells and periodontal ligament cells of mandibular first molars in the unilateral and bilateral nasal obstruction groups, suggesting that autophagy mainly occurred in the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. Western blot results showed that compared with the control group, the expression level of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α protein in the mandibular alveolar bone tissue was significantly increased, the expression level of p62 protein was significantly decreased (P < 0.05), and the ratio of LC3-II/LC3-I was significantly increased in the unilateral and bilateral nasal obstruction groups (P < 0.05). Moreover, the ratio of LC3-II/LC3-I in the bilateral nasal obstruction group was slightly lower than that in the unilateral nasal obstruction group (P > 0.05). All these findings indicate that hypoxia caused by unilateral and bilateral nasal obstruction increases the expression level of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α protein in the mandible and the level of autophagy in the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone of mandibular first molars in rats. However, the increase in autophagy has no positive correlation with the severity of nasal obstruction. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Establishing a rat model of intervertebral disc degeneration using X-ray guidance Huang Fan, Di Anqi, Qiu Mingwang, Huang Chuyu, Li Xiaohui, Zhao Siyi, Fan Zhiyong, Wu Shan 2022, 26 (35):  5652-5657.  doi: 10.12307/2022.942 Abstract ( 463 )   PDF (1639KB) ( 236 )   Save BACKGROUND: Currently, there are many modeling methods for intervertebral disc degeneration; however, inaccurate positioning is still a problem. OBJECTIVE: To compare the degree of degeneration of rat disc models by X-ray guided puncture and non-X-ray guided puncture.   METHODS: Nine Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups (n=3 per group): experimental group, control group and blank group. The blank group did not receive any operations. In the control group, the caudal vertebrae Co6/7 were manually positioned and punctured vertically with a syringe needle. Anhydrous ethanol was uniformly and slowly injected via the syringe needle to establish the intervertebral disc degeneration model. In the experimental group, the X-rays were used to locate the caudal vertebrae Co6 /7 that were then punctured vertically with a syringe needle, and anhydrous ethanol was uniformly and slowly injected to establish the intervertebral disc degeneration model. MRI and hematoxylin-eosin staining were conducted at 1 week after operation.   RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: MRI detection: In the blank group, the Co6/7 intervertebral disc nucleus pulposus showed high signal intensity, while the annulus fibrosus and endplate showed low signal intensity, with a distinct boundary between them. In the control group, the Co6/7 intervertebral disc nucleus pulposus showed decreased signal intensity, and about half of the intervertebral discs with the high signal in the nucleus pulposus were seen. In the experimental group, the signal of the nucleus pulposus of the Co6/7 intervertebral disc of the rats disappeared completely. Hematoxylin-eosin staining: The nucleus pulposus of the intervertebral disc in the blank group was intact, there were a large number of notochord cells, and the annulus fibrosus was arranged in an orderly manner and had a clear boundary with the nucleus pulposus. In the control group, the nucleus pulposus was intact, many notochord cells were seen, and part of the annulus fibrosus was ruptured. In the experimental group, the nucleus pulposus was ruptured, few notochord cells were observed, and there were obvious stratified fissures in the annulus fibrosus. To conclude, X-ray guided puncture of the rat intervertebral disc could successfully establish a rat model of intervertebral disc degeneration. The model had obvious degeneration, and the operation was accurate and convenient, which can be used as a reference for the study of intervertebral disc degeneration model.  Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effects of Chrono-moxibustion on core clock genes Clock, Bmal1 and pyroptosis in rats with rheumatoid arthritis Yu Mingfang, Chen Bailu, He Xinling, Wang Aiyang, Wu Xiao 2022, 26 (35):  5700-5706.  doi: 10.12307/2022.939 Abstract ( 601 )   PDF (1059KB) ( 512 )   Save BACKGROUND: Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory disease with a circadian variation of symptoms. Moxibustion has achieved remarkable efficacy in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, but it is unclear whether the specific mechanism is related to the regulation of the clock gene and the inhibition of pyroptosis. OBJECTIVE: To explore the effects of moxibustion at different time points on core clock genes Clock, Bmal1 and pyroptosis in rats with rheumatoid arthritis.  METHODS: Forty adult Sprague-Dawley rats of both sexes were randomized into a control group, a model group, a moxibustion at 7:00-9:00 A.M. group and a moxibustion at 5:00-7:00 P.M. group, with 10 rats in each group. To establish the rheumatoid arthritis model, the rats were injected with Freund’s Complete Adjuvant at the right foot. Rats in the control group were given the normal saline at the right foot. At the 7th after modeling, the two moxibustion groups began to be treated with moxibustion at Zusanli and Shenshu acupoints at 7:00-9:00 A.M. or 5:00-7:00 P.M., once a day, for total 18 treatments with a 1-day break every 6 days. We measured the right foot volume of rats using drainage method before model establishment, after model establishment and after treatment. The hypothalamus and the synovium of the right knee joint were collected from the rats after treatment. The expressions of Clock, Bmal1, Nod-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3), Caspase-1, and Gasdermin D (GSDMD) in the hypothalamus or knee synovium were tested by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR and western blot.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The mRNA expreession of Clock and BMAL1 in the hypothalamus had no obvious change among the four groups (P > 0.05). The relative mRNA expression of Clock and Bmal in the hypothalamus was higher than that in the synovium (P < 0.01). The expression of Clock and Bmal1 in the synovium was significantly down-regulated in the model group compared with the control group (P < 0.01). Moxibustion significantly increased the mRNA and protein expression of Clock and Bmal1 in the synoviums compared with the model group (P < 0.05). Compared with the moxibustion at 7:00-9:00 A.M. group, the mRNA and protein expressions of Clock and Bmal1 in the moxibustion at 5:00-7:00 P.M. group were slightly but insignificantly up-regulated (P > 0.05). The mRNA expressions of NLRP3, Caspase-1 and GSDMD in the synovium were significantly increased in the model group compared with the control group (P < 0.01). Compared with the model group, moxibustion at 5:00-7:00 P.M. could significantly reduce the relative mRNA expression of NLRP3, Caspase-1 and GSDMD in the synovium (P < 0.01). Compared with the moxibustion at 7:00-9:00 A.M. group, the relative mRNA expressions of NLRP3 and Caspase-1 were significantly lowered in the moxibustion at 5:00-7:00 P.M. group (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). All these findings indicate that moxibustion can treat rheumatoid arthritis rats by up-regulating the expression of Clock and Bmal1 mRNA and protein in different tissues, down-regulating the mRNA expression of NLRP3, Caspase-1 and GSDMD in the classical signal pathway of pyroptosis, and reducing synovitis and pyroptosis. The anti-inflammatory mechanism of core clock genes Clock and BMAL1 in rheumatoid arthritis may be related to the inhibition of pyrolytic effectors. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Mechanical characteristics of stepping lumbus of fixed-point at lateral decubitus position under different pushing modes collected using multi-point membrane pressure test system Liu Peina, Li Yuanming, Fan Zhiyong 2022, 26 (35):  5577-5582.  doi: 10.12307/2022.973 Abstract ( 415 )   PDF (971KB) ( 599 )   Save BACKGROUND: There is a lack of analysis on the mechanical characteristics of the stepping lumbus of fixed-point at lateral decubitus position, and there is no relevant research on the fast-pushing method and the slow-pushing method.  OBJECTIVE: To conduct a digital analysis on the similarities and differences of various mechanical parameters of the stepping lumbus of fixed-point at lateral decubitus position under different pushing methods.   METHODS: A total of 40 patients with lumbar intervertebral disc herniation who were treated in the Department of Massage of Dade Road General Hospital of Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine in June 2020 were selected and randomly divided into fast-pushing and slow-pushing groups (n=20). The manual trajectory and related mechanical parameters of the operator using the stepping lumbus of fixed-point at lateral decubitus position under two pushing modes were collected and compared through the multi-point membrane pressure test system. The visual analogue scale scores of the two groups were analyzed before and after treatment. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) There were preload force, run-up phase and impact phase in both pushing methods. Preload force, valley value, peak value, pushing speed, and impulse were larger in the fast-pushing group than those in the slow-pushing group (P < 0.05). Duration and impact time were not significantly different between the two groups (P > 0.05). (2) The visual analogue scale scores of the two groups were lower after treatment than those before treatment (P < 0.05). Above score was lower in the fast-pushing group than that in the slow-pushing group (P < 0.05). (3) Pearson and Spearman correlation analysis showed that there was a significant correlation between the visual analogue score difference before and after treatment, and the magnitude of preload force and peak value (i.e. impact force) (r=0.536, P < 0.001; r=0.740, P < 0.001). (4) The low back pain symptoms of patients with lumbar intervertebral disc herniation were significantly improved after a single treatment of the two pushing methods. The analgesic effect of fast-pushing group was better than that of slow-pushing group. The visual analogue score difference before and after treatment was correlated with the magnitude of preload force and peak value.  Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Pain intensity influences the movement patterns of patients with lateral meniscus injury Chen Yiyan, Fan Zhiying, Song Honghui, Lu Aming, Zhou Haibin 2022, 26 (35):  5639-5645.  doi: 10.12307/2022.888 Abstract ( 464 )   PDF (951KB) ( 949 )   Save BACKGROUND: Pain is an important sign of meniscus injury and affects the patient’s movement pattern. Studying the influence of pain on the movement pattern of meniscus injury patients is helpful to formulate targeted movement pattern rehabilitation programs. OBJECTIVE: To explore the influence of pain intensity on the movement pattern of lower limbs in patients with lateral meniscus injury when crossing obstacles; METHODS: Eight inertial measurement units and constant speed cameras were used to collect the lower limb movement patterns of eighty patients with lateral meniscus injury. The pain intensity was taken as an independent variable and one-way analysis of variance was performed for men and women separately. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The swing phase percentage of the swinging leg, the knee flexion angle of the supporting leg when the toe of the swinging leg is directly above the obstacle, and the hip-knee mean absolute relative phase during the swing phase of the swinging leg in males were increased by an increase in pain intensity in males, so were the swing phase percentage of the swinging and supporting legs and the hip-knee mean absolute relative phase during the stance phase of the swinging leg in females. The leading heel-obstacle distance, the thigh angular velocity during the swing phase were decreased by an increase in pain intensity in males, so were the leading heel-obstacle distance, the knee flexion of the swinging leg when the toe of the swinging leg is directly above the obstacle, and the thigh angular velocity during the stance phase in females. Therefore, increased pain intensity reduces the quality of lower limb movement patterns when crossing obstacles in patients with lateral meniscus injury. When facing with increased pain intensity, males adopt more aggressive coping strategies than females, and females are at a greater risk of falling. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Differential analysis of plantar pressure parameters of lower limbs in stroke patients with different cerebral hemispheric injuries Wang Yaoting, Lu Yan, Yao Jiaqin, Yang Chunhua, Xu Wenjing, Wang Hongyu 2022, 26 (35):  5646-5651.  doi: 10.12307/2022.887 Abstract ( 397 )   PDF (1082KB) ( 288 )   Save BACKGROUND: Plantar pressure can effectively assess static standing balance function after stroke. Different hemispheric injuries may cause different plantar pressure performance. OBJECTIVE: To explore the difference in plantar pressure parameters under static standing in stroke patients with different hemispheric injuries and healthy people. METHODS: A total of 11 stroke patients with right brain injury (RHD group), 15 stroke patients with left brain injury (LHD group), and 12 healthy subjects (healthy group) were selected from the First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College. A footwork dynamic foot force platform was used to detect the plantar dynamic (mean and maximum pressure symmetry index and their corresponding asymmetry index values) and kinematic parameters (center of pressure sway trajectories, including ellipse area, anteroposterior and mediolateral displacement, and corresponding symmetry index values) of each subject during static standing. Each measurement lasted for 10 seconds. Three measurements were conducted in total and their mean values were calculated. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Compared with the healthy group, the mean pressure symmetry index of the forefoot in the RHD group, the maximum pressure symmetry index of the forefoot, and the mean and maximum pressure symmetry indexes of the heel in the LHD group were significantly increased under eyes-open conditions (P < 0.05). (2) Compared with the healthy group, there was a significant increase in the mean pressure symmetry index of the forepfoot and the mean and maximum pressure symmetry indexes of the heel in the RHD (P < 0.05) as well as in the maximum pressure symmetry index of the forefoot and the mean and maximum pressure symmetry indexes of the heel in the LHD group (P < 0.05, P < 0.01) under eyes-closed conditions. (3) The ellipse area and mediolateral displacement symmetry index in the eyes-open state and the mediolateral displacement symmetry index in the eyes-closed state were significantly decreased in the LHD group compared with the healthy group (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). (4) The ellipse area and anteroposterior and mediolateral displacement amplitudes were significantly increased in the RHD and LHD groups compared with the healthy group under eyes-closed conditions (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). (5) Compared with the eyes-open conditions, the anteroposterior displacement amplitude was significantly increased in the RHD group under the eyes-closed conditions, and the ellipse area and anteroposterior and mediolateral displacement amplitudes were significantly increased in the LHD group under the eyes-closed conditions (P < 0.01). (6) To conclude, most stroke patients with left or right hemispheric injury shift their body mass to the healthy side to maintain the body balance, and the force magnitudes of the forefoot and heel are lower on the affected side than the healthy side. Irrespective of unilateral spatial neglect factors, patients with left hemispheric injury have worse balance control on the affected side than the healthy side, and visual information has a greater influence on their static standing stability. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Therapeutic effect of Rod Tuina combined with electrical stimulation biofeedback on stress urinary incontinence in adult women: changes in surface electromyography values of pelvic floor muscles Wang Tiegang, Pan Lina, Wang Hai, Yang Tiansong, Sun Zhongren 2022, 26 (35):  5693-5699.  doi: 10.12307/2022.885 Abstract ( 602 )   PDF (977KB) ( 2206 )   Save BACKGROUND: Rod Tuina is an effective treatment for stress urinary incontinence. However, the combination of Rod Tuina and electrical stimulation biofeedback therapy has not been reported. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of Rod Tuina combined with electrical stimulation biofeedback therapy in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence in adult women.  METHODS: A total of 72 female patients with urinary incontinence diagnosed in the Female Rehabilitation Outpatient Clinic of Daqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine from January 2021 to September 2021 were enrolled. These patients were randomly divided into treatment group (n=36) and control group (n=36). Patients in the treatment group received the combined therapy of Rod Tuina and electrical stimulation biofeedback, while those in the control group received electrical stimulation biofeedback only. Treatment in each group lasted for 20 days. Surface electromyography of pelvic floor muscles, 1-hour pad test, International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ-UI SF), and modified Oxford muscle strength test were conducted before and after treatment. The changes of above observation indexes before and 20 days after treatment were compared between groups to evaluate the condition and efficacy of the patients. Follow-ups were conducted at 6 and 12 weeks after the course of treatment. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: After 20 days of treatment, surface electromyography, 1-hour pad test, ICIQ-UI SF score and Oxford muscle strength classification were improved in both groups, and the improvement was more significant in the treatment group than the control group (P < 0.05). After the treatment course, the total effective rate in the treatment group (92%) was significantly higher than that in the control group (67%; P < 0.05). Follow-up results indicated that the ICIQ-UI SF score was significantly better in the treatment group than the control group (P < 0.05). To conclude, Rod Tuina combined with electrical stimulation biofeedback therapy can effectively reduce the frequency and severity of urinary incontinence, promote the strength of pelvic floor muscles, and improve the pelvic floor function. Moreover, Rod Tuina combined with electrical stimulation biofeedback therapy can also improve the accompanying symptoms of stress urinary incontinence and maintain a longer therapeutic effect. In addition, neuromuscular electrophysiological indicators that are more objective have been introduced to evaluate the curative effect. Rod Tuina combined with electrical stimulation biofeedback as a treatment plan of integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine has certain in-depth research and promotion values. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Hot topics and international frontiers of electromyography in the field of body movements Liu Yang, Zhu Zhiqiang, Zhao Xiaowei, Xiang Yujie, Xiao Jian, Cheng Lifen 2022, 26 (35):  5707-5715.  doi: 10.12307/2022.1009 Abstract ( 929 )   PDF (2985KB) ( 2617 )   Save BACKGROUND: Electromyography (EMG) is widely used in the measurement of human limb movement or muscle activity, and it has been widely recognized by experts and scholars in the fields of medicine, sports science, and ergonomics. However, review papers on the application of EMG in human limb movements are slightly insufficient.   OBJECTIVE: To understand and comb the relevant EMG data in human limb movements from the Web of Science core database, attempting to further optimize the schematic design using EMG in human rehabilitation and ergonomics. METHODS: Literature search with subject terms was performed in Web of Science Core Collection database based on Boolean logic operation. Search strategy was as follows: TS=“electromyography” OR “sEMG” OR “surface EMG” and “human movement” or “movement”. Included documents de-duplicated using the Citespace V were analyzed in terms of disciplines and countries. Hot topics and international frontier trends of relevant research were analyzed using the knowledge graph in terms of keywords, high citations, and co-citations. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Literature regarding the application of surface EMG in human limb movements is mainly published in the fields of neurology, engineering and sports science. Top three countries with the most publications are the United States, China, and Canada in order. (2) EMG application in human limb movement mainly focus on myoelectric control, chronic low back pain, corticospinal excitability, Parkinson’s disease, attentional focus, stroke survivor, anterior cruciate ligament injury, and muscle synergies. (3) International frontier research is divided into early frontier and modern frontier. Transition between the early and modern frontiers is from the fields of EMG control, EMG influencing factors and EMG algorithms to human-computer interaction and ergonomics (prosthetic rehabilitation). (4) EMG provides EMG parameter diagnosis in the fields of ergonomics, exercise biomechanics (muscle activation degree and time), evaluation of action mode, fatigue standard, and evaluation of rehabilitation training effects. There are significant differences in the recovery time, size and symmetry of trunk EMG in patients with stroke. EMG remains to be further studied in revealing the mechanism of unilateral limb resistance training in patients with stroke in response to activation of untrained limbs. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effect and mechanism of non-coding RNA regulating autophagy in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury Fan Jilin, Zhu Tingting, Tian Xiaoling, Liu Sijia, Su Jing, Zhang Shiliang 2022, 26 (35):  5716-5723.  doi: 10.12307/2022.927 Abstract ( 701 )   PDF (1301KB) ( 929 )   Save BACKGROUND: Increasing studies have shown that autophagy plays an important role in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury and moderate autophagy  help maintain the normal and metabolic function of the heart. Non-coding RNAs, including long non-coding RNAs, circular RNAs, and microRNAs, can maintain cardiomyocyte homeostasis and protect cardiomyocytes by regulating autophagy. OBJECTIVE: To review the role and molecular mechanism of non-coding RNAs in regulating autophagy in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury, in order to lay a foundation for the treatment of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury and other related cardiovascular diseases. METHODS: PubMed, Web of Science, WanFang and CNKI databases were searched for relevant literature published from January 2011 to January 2021 using the keywords of “noncoding RNAs, non-coding RNAs, long non-coding RNA, circRNA, microRNA, miRNA, autophagy, myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury” in English and Chinese. The inclusion and exclusion criteria were formulated and 78 related documents were finally included by reading the titles, abstracts and full-text contents. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Autophagy plays a dual role in the pathology of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury. Under physiological conditions, moderate autophagy can maintain the balance of cell metabolism and promote the survival of cardiomyocytes by degrading and recovering damaged organelles and proteins, but excessive autophagy will aggravate the damage of cardiomyocytes. Non-coding RNA regulating autophagy may become a new target for the development of diagnosis and therapeutic drugs. In addition, it is reasonable to think that the study on the mechanism of autophagy and non-coding RNAs can provide a new strategy for the prevention and treatment of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Visualization analysis of literature on eye tracking in cognitive behaviors of autistic patients She Jian, Zhao Jing, Zhang Jiaming, Xia Haisha, Zhong Dongling, Li Yuxi, Zheng Zhong, Li Juan, Jin Rongjiang 2022, 26 (35):  5724-5732.  doi: 10.12307/2022.938 Abstract ( 654 )   PDF (2863KB) ( 2035 )   Save BACKGROUND: Eye tracking has attracted the attention of Chinese scholars because it can objectively, timely and non-invasively reflect the eye movement and attention characteristics of autistic patients, which makes up for the lack of objectivity of traditional measurement methods. However, there is yet no visualization analysis of literature on eye tracking in autistic patients. OBJECTIVE: To perform the visualization analysis of relevant Chinese and English literature on eye tracking in autism and to understand the research overview, hot spots and trends in this field.  METHODS: Literature related to eye tracking in autistic patients were searched in Web of Science Core Collection database and CNKI database from their inception to November 5, 2021. Bibliometrics and visualization analysis of key node information in the literature was conducted using CiteSpace software (R5.8.R1). The main observation indexes were node centrality, co-occurrence frequency or co-citation frequency, and burst time. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: A total of 1 458 papers were included in the Web of Science core Collection database, the first of which was published in 1994, and 210 papers were included in the CNKI database, the first of which was published in 2007. The international author with the most publications is JOHNSON MH who is from the Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development, Birkbeck, University of London, and the institution with the most publications is University College London. In China, Chen Shunsen who is from the Institute of Applied Psychology of Minnan Normal University has published the most papers, and the institution with the most publications is the Institute of Applied Psychology of Minnan Normal University. There are some differences between domestic and international research hotspots. Domestic researchers mostly focus on the attentional bias behavior pattern of children with autism towards external social cues, and their results mainly show that children with autism have attentional bias of negative emotional cues and eye attention bias. International researchers not only focus on the visual patterns of processing social cues in children and infants with autism, but also use brain imaging technology to study the underlying neural mechanisms of abnormal visual behavior patterns. The main research results are that the abnormal attention pattern of autism patients is mainly related to the activation of amygdala, occipito-temporal lobe and fusiform gyrus. Further research on biomarkers related to autism is required to provide objective indicators for early diagnosis and intervention of autistic patients. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Telomeres and telomerase: mechanism of exercise retarding aging telomeres Yang Ling, Huang Sen 2022, 26 (35):  5733-5740.  doi: 10.12307/2022.919 Abstract ( 1407 )   PDF (1217KB) ( 3017 )   Save BACKGROUND: Telomeres form special structures at the end of chromosomes in human cells, which have special functions and show a very close relationship with biological aging. Exercise can improve the activity of telomerases and protect the structure of telomeres, thus affecting human health. Shorter telomeres increase the incidence of diseases and decrease the survival rate. Therefore, telomeres are often considered as biological markers of cell aging and the “biological clock” that triggers aging.  OBJECTIVE: Based on the relationship between telomeres and aging, to summarize and analyze the effect of exercise on telomeres and telomerases and to explore the mechanism of telomerase retardation by exercise, so as to provide theoretical basis and reference for anti-aging and health promotion by exercises.  METHODS: We searched for relevant articles in CNKI, PubMed and Web of Science databases using the keywords of “telomeres, telomerase, exercise, senescence” in Chinese and English, and conducted preliminary screening of titles and abstracts according to inclusion criteria. After reading the full text, a total of 89 documents were included for further analysis.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Different exercises have different effects on telomeres. Exercise is positively correlated with telomere length, uncorrelated with telomere length, and has inverted U-shaped relationship with telemeter length. Exercise and telomerase activity are age-deviated. Suitable exercises can slow down the speed of telomere shortening, prevent the excessive consumption of telomeres, delay or prevent the occurrence of age-related diseases, and prolong life, but the mechanism has not been fully clarified. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics