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    18 September 2023, Volume 27 Issue 26 Previous Issue    Next Issue
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    Influence of Tuina manipulation on walking dysfunction in rats with sciatic nerve injury
    Liu Xinhao, Ma Xinran, Yang Shengyong, Wang Yanyu, Ma Shujie
    2023, 27 (26):  4101-4106.  doi: 10.12307/2023.594
    Abstract ( 260 )   PDF (992KB) ( 55 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Tuina manipulation has definite effects on peripheral nerve injury. However, the behavioral effect of walking function is less involved in basic research.
    OBJECTIVE: To explore the effect of Tuina manipulation on the improvement of motor function after adventitial suture of sciatic nerve transection in rats. 
    METHODS: A total of 24 male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups: Tuina group, model group and normal group, with 8 rats in each group. The rats in the Tuina group and model group were established with adventitial suture model of sciatic nerve transection injury. In the Tuina group, a small animal Tuina manipulation simulator was used at the gastrocnemius muscle on the operation side to give Tuina manipulation once a day. Rats in the model group and the normal group were only fixed and bound in the same way as those in the Tuina group, and no other intervention was performed. At 1, 2, 3 and 4 months after the intervention, the catwalk small animal gait analysis system was used to collect gait data of rats in each group. Maximum contact mean intensity (MCMI), maximum contact area (MCA), stride length (SL) and swing speed (SS) were then analyzed. 
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Because of nerve injury, compared with the normal group, maximum contact mean intensity, maximum contact area, stride length and swing speed in the model and Tuina groups were significantly decreased at various time points after intervention (P < 0.05). With regeneration after nerve repair, maximum contact mean intensity, maximum contact area, stride length and swing speed in the Tuina and model groups recovered to varying degrees. The maximum contact area in the Tuina group was significantly lower than that in the model group 2 and 3 months after intervention (P < 0.05), while 4 months after intervention, the maximum contact mean intensity in the Tuina group was significantly higher than that in the model group (P < 0.05). Stride length and swing speed in the Tuina group were significantly higher than those in the model group at 3 and 4 months after intervention (P < 0.05). To conclude, Tuina manipulation can improve the gait dysfunction of rats with sciatic nerve injury and promote the recovery of motor function and overall coordination of the affected limb. 
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    Alteration in knee and ligament functions in patients with knee ligament injury under aerobic training intervention mode
    Zhang Duo, Shan Jixin
    2023, 27 (26):  4107-4112.  doi: 10.12307/2023.481
    Abstract ( 276 )   PDF (918KB) ( 67 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: After reconstruction of knee ligament injuries, some patients develop obvious thigh muscle atrophy. Moreover, postoperative immobilization and fixation measures will also lead to intra-articular adhesion and soft tissue contracture around the joint. Therefore, in the rehabilitation process after ligament injury, muscle strength training plays an important role in promoting its rapid recovery.
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of aerobic training mode of skeletal muscle recovery on knee joint and ligament functions of patients with knee ligament injury. 
    METHODS: A total of 94 patients with knee ligament injury who received arthroscopic repair were selected and randomized into experimental group and conventional group, with 47 patients in each group. Patients in the conventional group received conventional rehabilitation intervention mode, and patients in the experimental group received integrated exercise mode of aerobic training intervention on the basis of the conventional group. Visual analog scale score, ligament function indexes (flexor/extensor peak moment ratio, limb symmetry measurements), knee function Lysholm score, and quality of life (SF-36) score were compared between the two groups before and after treatment. Pearson correlation coefficient was used to analyze the correlation between patients’ ligament function score, knee function score and their quality of life. 
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Visual analog scale scores decreased significantly in the experimental group compared with the conventional group after 3 months of treatment (P < 0.001). After 3 months of treatment, flexor/extensor peak moment ratio and limb symmetry measures improved significantly in the two groups, and all the indexes in the experimental group were significantly higher than those in the conventional group (all P < 0.001). After 3 months of treatment, the Lysholm score increased significantly in the two groups, and the Lysholm score was significantly higher in the experimental group than the conventional group (both P < 0.001). After 3 months of treatment, the total score of SF-36 scale increased significantly in the experimental group compared with the conventional group (P < 0.001). Pearson correlation analysis showed that quality of life was significantly positively correlated with flexor/extensor peak moment ratio, limb symmetry, and Lysholm score (P < 0.05). To conclude, aerobic training intervention mode can effectively improve the knee join and ligament functions of patients with knee ligament injury, help patients recover motor function as soon as possible, and improve the quality of life of patients.
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    Astragaloside IV can reduce interleukin-1beta-induced chondrocyte inflammation
    Huang Shaoshuo, Li Jiacheng, Luo Di, Zhu Kai, Xu Bo, Xue Yuanliang, Yan Bozhao, Li Gang
    2023, 27 (26):  4113-4119.  doi: 10.12307/2023.435
    Abstract ( 211 )   PDF (1421KB) ( 101 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Osteoarthritis is one of the most common degenerative diseases, and there are still no drugs to delay or reverse the disease. Only anti-inflammatory and analgetic treatments can be performed to relieve symptoms and improve patient’s conditions in the short term. Astragaloside IV is an active component of Astragalus membranaceus with immunomodulatory, ischemic protection, cardiac protection, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anti-tumor effects.  
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of astragaloside IV on interleukin-1β-induced ATDC5 cell injury and its related mechanism.  
    METHODS: ATDC5 cells were randomly divided into blank control group, model group, monomer group, and experimental group. There was no intervention in the blank control group. Cells in the latter three groups were treated with 100 μg/L interleukin-1β, 5 μg/L astragaloside IV, and 100 μg/L interleukin-1β+5 μg/L astragaloside IV, respectively. After 18 hours of treatment, cell counting kit-8 was used to detect cell proliferation. Western blot and qRT-PCR were used to detect the expression of matrix metalloproteinases 3, 9, 13, type II collagen, stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1), and C-X-C chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) at protein and mRNA levels, respectively. Toluidine blue staining was used to detect cell morphological changes and cell numbers, and trypan blue staining was used to detect cell viability.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Interleukin-1β (100 μg/L) significantly inhibited the activity of ATDC5 cells, increased the expression of inflammatory markers (matrix metalloproteinases 3, 9, and 13), decreased the expression of type II collagen, increased the expression of SDF-1 and CXCR4, activated the SDF-1/CXCR4 pathway, and induced inflammatory responses in cells. Compared with the model group, astragaloside IV significantly reduced the expression of matrix metalloproteinases 3, 9, and 13, and increased the expression of type II collagen, indicating that astragaloside IV can alleviate chondrocyte injury induced by interleukin-1β. In addition, the expression of CXCR4 and SDF-1 was decreased in the experimental group compared with the model group, indicating that astragaloside IV alleviates interleukin-1β-induced chondrocyte inflammation through the SDF-1/CXCR4 signaling pathway.  
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    Effects of brain-derived neurotrophic factor on neuronal activity, pain, and related cytokines in rats with lumbar spinal stenosis
    An Hepeng, Liu Zhenteng, Li Lixin, Xu Yafang, Fan Guofeng
    2023, 27 (26):  4120-4125.  doi: 10.12307/2023.450
    Abstract ( 240 )   PDF (1323KB) ( 49 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Studies have found that brain-derived neurotrophic factor deficiency can cause neurodegenerative changes in central motor structures, leading to a variety of motor neurological diseases. Considering lumbar spinal stenosis is a chronic progressive neurological dysfunction syndrome, brain-derived neurotrophic factor may be an effective target for the treatment of this disease.
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of brain-derived neurotrophic factor on neuronal activity, pain and hypoxia-inducible factor-1α/vascular endothelial growth factor in rats with lumbar spinal stenosis. 
    METHODS: Forty SPF male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into normal group, model group, nerve growth factor group, brain derived neurotrophic factor group (n=10 per group). In the latter three groups, animal models of lumbar spinal stenosis were established. After modeling, the rats in the nerve growth factor group was intraperitoneally injected with 1 500 U of nerve growth factor, and those in the brain-derived neurotrophic factor group was intrathecally injected with 20 μL of 10 mg/L brain-derived neurotrophic factor, once a day, for 30 continuous days. The normal and model groups were intragastrically given the same volume of normal saline at the same time. After administration, the motor function and body surface pain of the rats were observed and recorded. Spinal canal density was detected by CT, nerve conduction velocity was measured by nerve trunk action point conduction velocity tester, the neuronal activity of spinal cord tissue was detected by TUNEL method, and the protein expression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α/vascular endothelial growth factor was detected by western blot.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the normal group, rats in the model group showed a significant decline in plate movement distance, body surface pain value, and nerve conduction velocity (P < 0.05). Compared with the model group, the above-mentioned indexes were significantly increased in the nerve growth factor group and brain-derived neurotrophic factor group (P < 0.05). Moreover, these indexes were significantly higher in the brain-derived neurotrophic factor group than the nerve growth factor group (P < 0.05). Compared with the normal group, the density of lumbar spinal canals and the apoptotic rate of neurons in spinal cord tissue were significantly increased in the model group (P < 0.05), while the two indexes were significantly decreased after treatment with nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (P < 0.05). Moreover, the brain-derived neurotrophic factor group showed better effects than the nerve growth factor group (P < 0.05). Compared with the normal group, the model group had significantly increased expression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α protein and decreased vascular endothelial growth factor in the spinal cord tissue (P < 0.05). Compared with the model group, the protein expression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α was significantly decreased (P < 0.05) and the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor was significantly increased in the nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor groups (P < 0.05). And the above-mentioned indexes changed significantly in the brain-derived neurotrophic factor group compared with the nerve growth factor group (P < 0.05). To conclude, brain-derived neurotrophic factor has a significant therapeutic effect on lumbar spinal stenosis in the rat model, which can effectively improve neuronal activity, reduce pain, inhibit hypoxia-inducible factor 1α expression, and promote vascular endothelial growth factor expression.
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    Mechanism of stone balm on the healing of infected refractory wounds in rats
    Liu Zhilun, Guan Zhiyu, Jiang Taiping, Li Chengxi, Liu Zhaoming
    2023, 27 (26):  4126-4131.  doi: 10.12307/2023.479
    Abstract ( 281 )   PDF (1297KB) ( 83 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: In clinical work, western medicine has less treatment methods for skin-infected refractory wounds, while the treatment of skin wounds with traditional Chinese medicine has attracted more and more attention.
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect and mechanism of stone balm on promoting the healing of skin-infected refractory wounds in rats. 
    METHODS: A total of 15 male Sprague-Dawley rats were selected. Of these rats, 12 rats were used to establish animal models of skin-infected refractory wounds and then randomly divided into model group (no intervention), recombinant bovine basic fibroblast growth factor (rb-bFGF) group, low- and high-dose stone balm groups, with 3 rats in each group. Administration was performed every 48 hours. The remaining three rats were not given inoculation of bacteria, serving as blank control group. After 14 days of medication, wound healing was observed and pathological changes in wound tissue were observed under microscope. The levels of superoxide dismutase and malondialdehyde in wound tissue were detected by ELISA, and the protein expressions of Nrf2 and heme oxygenase 1 in wound tissue were detected by western blot method.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: After 14 days of intervention, the wounds in each groups showed a healing state. Compared with the blank control group, the wound area was slightly smaller in the model group, but redness and swelling could still be seen. Compared with the model group, the wound area of were reduced in the rb-bFGF and high-dose stone balm groups, and wound redness and swelling was alleviated, while the wound area did not change significantly in the low-dose stone balm group but wound redness and swelling was also alleviated. Compared with the rb-bFGF group, the wound surface was significantly reduced in the high-dose Stone balm group, and the wound basically healed. Hematoxylin-eosin staining showed that compared with the blank control and model groups, the number of sphacelus and inflammatory substances on the wound surface was significantly reduced in the rb-bFGF, low- and high-dose Stone balm groups, and a large number of collagen fibers and granulation tissue hyperplasia were observed. Compared with the rb-bFGF group, collagen fibers and granulation tissue were denser in high-dose Stone balm group. Compared with the model group, the levels of malondialdehyde were significantly lower in the rb-bFGF, low- and high-dose stone balm groups (P < 0.05), while the levels of superoxide dismutase were significantly higher (P < 0.05). The protein expressions of Nrf2 and heme oxygenase 1 were significantly higher in the rb-bFGF group than the model group (P < 0.05), and the protein expression of heme oxygenase 1 was significantly higher in the high- and low-dose stone balm groups than the model group (P < 0.05). To conclude, regulation of the Nrf2-ARE signaling pathway induces the ARE antioxidant response element to produce heme oxygenase 1 protein and superoxide dismutase factor, while inhibiting the production of malondialdehyde and reducing cellular oxidative stress injury, which may be one of the possible mechanisms by which stone balm promotes wound healing.
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    Protective effect of ethanol extract of Zizhu on vascular endothelial cell injury induced by high glucose and high lipids
    Wang Lijuan, Liu Guobin, Han Qiuqin, Zhao Zhihong, He Jinjing, Li Wenhui
    2023, 27 (26):  4132-4138.  doi: 10.12307/2023.434
    Abstract ( 255 )   PDF (1345KB) ( 43 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Zizhu ointment is composed of Astragali Radix, Radix Arnebiae seu Lithospermi, Cinnabar, Resina Dracoins, Ejiao and Borneol, which has the effects of clearing heat and detoxifying, removing saprophyxia and strengthening muscles, invigorating qi and benefiting blood. Previous clinical and animal experiments have shown that it can inhibit inflammation and promote angiogenesis in the healing process of diabetic ulcer.
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the protective effect of ethanol extract of Zizhu on the injury of rat brain microvascular endothelial cells (bEend.3 cells) induced by high glucose and high lipids at the cellular level, and to study its effect on angiogenesis. 
    METHODS: bEnd.3 cells were induced with glucose and palmitic acid at different concentrations, and treated with different concentrations of ethanol extract of Zizhu. The optimum concentrations for modeling and administration were identified by cell counting kit-8 method. The effect of ethanol extract of Zizhu on angiogenesis of bEnd.3 cells was observed by scratch test and angiogenesis test. AnnexinV/PI apoptosis detection kit was used to detect the apoptosis rate of bEnd.3 cells under fluorescence microscope. The protein and mRNA expression levels of VEGFA, Ang-2, SPRED1, and PIK3R2 in bEnd.3 cells were determined by western blot and qRT-PCR, respectively. 
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Cell viability was detected by cell counting kit-8 method. 25 mmol/L glucose+200 μmol/L palmitic acid for 24 hours was selected as the model group; treatment with ethanol extract of Zizhu 500 mg/L for 24 hours was performed as the way of administration in the ethanol extract of Zizhu group. Compared with the normal group, bEnd.3 cell migration and angiogenesis were decreased in the model group (P < 0.001, P < 0.05), bEnd.3 cell apoptosis rate was increased (P < 0.001), the mRNA and protein expressions of VEGFA and Ang-2 were significantly decreased (P < 0.001), and the mRNA and protein expressions of SPRED1 and PIK3R2 were significantly increased (P < 0.001). Compared with the model group, in the ethanol extract of Zizhu group, cell migration and angiogenesis of bEnd.3 cells were significantly increased (P < 0.05), bEnd.3 cell apoptosis rate was significantly decreased (P < 0.001), mRNA and protein expressions of VEGFA and Ang-2 were significantly up-regulated (P < 0.001), mRNA and protein expressions of SPRED1 and PIK3R2 were significantly down-regulated (P < 0.001, P < 0.05). All the experimental results show that the ethanol extract of Zizhu can protect bEnd.3 cells induced by high glucose and high lipid, promote cell migration and angiogenesis, and reduce cell apoptosis.
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    Expression of microRNA-124 and cortical proteins in ischemic penumbra of rats pretreated with “Tongdu Tiaoshen” electroacupuncture
    Zhang Junyu, Zhang Lida, Hu Yanqi, Jin Zikai, Luo Fuci, Wu Xiaoqing, Tong Tingting, Song Xiaoge, Han Wei
    2023, 27 (26):  4139-4146.  doi: 10.12307/2023.596
    Abstract ( 279 )   PDF (1721KB) ( 56 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: “Tongdu Tiaoshen” electroacupuncture pretreatment is an emerging physiotherapy combining traditional acupuncture with modern electrical stimulation, which has been reported to have significant therapeutic effects on ischemic stroke, but its specific mechanism is still unclear.
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of “Tongdu Tiaoshen” electroacupuncture pretreatment on cell apoptosis, the relative expression of microRNA-124 (miR-124) in the ischemic penumbra and Notch-1, p-JNK and cysteinyl-aspartate specific protease-3 (caspase-3) proteins in the cortex of rats and their possible mechanisms of action.
    METHODS: Seventy-five male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups (n=15 per group): model group, sham-operated group, electroacupuncture pretreatment group, miR-124 antagomir pretreatment group and electroacupuncture+miR-124 agomir pretreatment group. In the electroacupuncture pretreatment group, 20-minute electroacupuncture at Fengchi, Baihui, and Dazhui was performed once a day, for 7 continuous days. In the miR-124 antagomir pretreatment group, miR-124 antagomir was injected into the lateral ventricle of rats on day 7. In the electroacupuncture+miR-124 agomir pretreatment group, miR-124 agomir was injected based on electroacupuncture pretreatment. Model and sham-operated groups were not treated. After the intervention, animal models were created. In the sham-operated group, the rats were only fixed on the operating board and the vessels were blunt-separated. In the other groups, the right cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury model was established by the middle cerebral artery occlusion method and the Zea Longa suture method. Twenty-four hours after the modeling, the modified neurological severity scoring was performed to determine the damage. TUNEL staining method was then used to measure cell apoptosis in the rat cerebral cortex. Ultrastructure of the rat cerebral cortex was observed under electron microscopy.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the sham-operated group, the modified neurological severity scores were significantly elevated in the other groups (all P < 0.01). Compared with the model group, the miR-124 antagomir pretreatment group and electroacupuncture pretreatment group had significantly reduced modified neurological severity scores (both P < 0.05). Compared with the sham-operated group, the number of apoptotic cells was elevated in the model group (P < 0.01). Compared with the model group, the number of apoptotic cells was reduced in the pretreatment groups (all P < 0.01). The model group had more severe defects in cell structure and contents. The electroacupuncture pretreatment group had mild defects in cell structure and contents. Cells in the miR-124 antagomir pretreatment group were more intact. There was damage to cell structure and contents in the electroacupuncture+miR-124 agomir pretreatment group. The relative expressions of caspase-3, Notch-1 and p-JNK proteins in the cortex of rats were significantly lower in the miR-124 antagomir pretreatment and electroacupuncture pretreatment group compared with the model group (all P < 0.01). The relative expression of miR-124-3p and Notch-1 mRNA in the cortex of the pretreated rats was significantly reduced compared with that of the model group (all P < 0.01). The relative expression of caspase-3 mRNA and p-JNK mRNA in the cortex of rats was significantly reduced in the miR-124 antagomir pretreatment and electroacupuncture pretreatment groups compared with the model group (all P < 0.01). The relative expression of p-JNK mRNA in the cortex of rats in the electroacupuncture+miR-124 agomir pretreatment group was also reduced compared with the model group (P < 0.05). To conclude, “Tongdu Tiaoshen” electroacupuncture pretreatment can inhibit the apoptosis of neuronal cells after cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury by interfering with the expression level of miR-124 in the brain tissue of rats, thereby reducing neurological deficits after cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury. The mechanism of this action may be related to the positive regulation mechanism of miR-124 on the Notch pathway.
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    Protective effect of metformin against lipopolysaccharide-induced chondrocyte injury by activating nuclear factor E2 and its relevant signaling pathway
    Wang Xudong, Han Junzhu, Wang Wenrui, Xia Qixin, Guo Cheng
    2023, 27 (26):  4147-4153.  doi: 10.12307/2023.441
    Abstract ( 237 )   PDF (2164KB) ( 62 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Previous studies have shown that the nuclear factor E2-related factor 2/heme oxygenase 1 signaling pathway is crucial for the development of osteoarthritis, and metformin has a certain protective effect on chondrocytes.
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the protective effect and mechanism of metformin on chondrocyte injury induced by lipopolysaccharide.
    METHODS: Sprague-Dawley rat chondrocytes were isolated, cultured, and identified in vitro. Passage 3 chondrocytes were selected and treated with different concentrations of lipopolysaccharide (0, 10, 50, 100, 500, 1 000, and 5 000 μg/L) and metformin (0, 50, 100, 500, 1 000, 5 000, and 10 000 μmol/L) for 24 hours. Cell viability was then detected by cell counting kit-8 method, and the optimal mass concentrations of lipopolysaccharide and metformin were screened. According to different treatment factors, the chondrocytes were divided into blank group, lipopolysaccharide (5 000 μg/L) induced group, and 5 000 μg/L lipopolysaccharide +1 000 μmol/L group. Cell apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry. Oxidative stress was detected by reactive oxygen species, malondialdehyde, and superoxide dismutase kits. The mRNA and protein expressions of interleukin-1β, cyclooxygenase 2, type II collagen, nuclear factor E2-related factor 2, and heme oxygenase were detected by RT-PCR and western blot, respectively.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Lipopolysaccharide reduced the activity of chondrocytes and induced apoptosis of chondrocytes, while metformin increased the activity of chondrocytes and decreased the apoptosis rate. The levels of reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde were increased and the activity of superoxide dismutase was decreased in lipopolysaccharide-induced chondrocytes, while treatment with metformin decreased the levels of reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde and increased the activity of superoxide dismutase in lipopolysaccharide-induced chondrocytes. Lipopolysaccharide increased the expressions of interleukin-1β and cyclooxygenase-2 in chondrocytes, and decreased the expressions of type II collagen, nuclear factor E2-related factor 2, and heme oxygenase 1 in chondrocytes. After metformin intervention, the expressions of interleukin-1β and cyclooxygenase-2 were decreased, and the expression of type II collagen, nuclear factor E2-related factor 2, and heme oxygenase 1 were increased. To conclude, metformin can inhibit lipopolysaccharide-induced chondrocyte injury, possibly through the activation of nuclear factor E2-related factor 2/heme oxygenase 1 signaling pathway
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    Effects of compound diclofenac sodium on cartilage morphology and oxidative stress in osteoarthritis rats
    Zhou Zhijie, Zhang Lanyun, Li Fengguo, Zhang Guohui
    2023, 27 (26):  4154-4160.  doi: 10.12307/2023.189
    Abstract ( 271 )   PDF (1154KB) ( 79 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Compound diclofenac sodium is an analgesic and antipyretic, non-steroidal drug, which has been widely used to relieve mild-to-moderate pain and treat rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and ankylosing spondylitis, and osteoarthritis, musculoskeletal injury. However, there are few reports on its mechanism of action on osteoarthritis.
    OBJECTIVE: To explore the effect of compound diclofenac sodium on matrix metalloproteinase 1, cartilage morphology and oxidative stress in osteoarthritis rats. 
    METHODS: Rat models of osteoarthritis were established by intra-articular injection of papain and randomly divided into blank group, model group, low, middle-, and high-dose compound diclofenac sodium groups, and celecoxib group. The swelling degree of the right knee joint of rats was measured. ELISA was used to detect the contents of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, and matrix metalloproteinase 1 in the joint effusion. The levels of oxidative stress indicators, superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde, glutathione peroxidase, were detected. Articular cartilage histology and Mankin score were compared between groups. Western blot was used to detect the protein expression of matrix metalloproteinases 1, 3, and 13 in the articular cartilage. 
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: After modeling and before administration, compared with the blank group, rats in the model group, low-, middle-, high-dose groups and celecoxib group all had different degrees of redness and swelling in the right knee joint, but no purple-red spots and nodules. After administration, the degree of redness and swelling of the right knee joint of rats in the model group was significantly reduced in the low-, middle-, high-dose groups and celecoxib group compared with the model group (P < 0.05). The levels of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, and matrix metalloproteinase 1 in the joint effusion were significantly higher in the model group than the blank group (P < 0.05), while these levels were significantly reduced after administration of low-, 
    middle-, and high-dose compound diclofenac sodium and celecoxib (P < 0.05). Compared with the blank group, the superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase levels were significantly reduced and the malondialdehyde content was significantly increased in the model group (P < 0.05). Compared with the model group, the low-, middle-, and high-dose groups and the celecoxib group showed the significantly increased levels of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase and the reduced content of malondialdehyde. Moreover, the changes in the high-dose group were the most significant (P < 0.05). The Mankin score of rats was higher in the model group than the blank group (P < 0.05), but were significantly reduced in the low-, middle- and high-dose groups and the celecoxib group, especially in the high-dose group (P < 0.05). The protein expression levels of matrix metalloproteinases 1, 3, and 13 in the articular cartilage were significantly higher in the model group than the blank group (P < 0.05) and were significantly reduced after administration of low-, middle-, and high-dose compound diclofenac sodium and celecoxib (P < 0.05). To conclude, compound diclofenac sodium can improve the cartilage morphology of osteoarthritis rats, reduce oxidative stress damage, and inhibit the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 1 in cartilage tissue, thereby having a therapeutic effect on bones and joints.
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    Effects of sodium arsenite on human umbilical vein endothelial cell injury and sphingosine kinases 1/sphingosine 1-phosphate signaling axis
    Fang Xingyan, Tian Zhenli, Zhao Zheyi, Wen Ping, Xie Tingting
    2023, 27 (26):  4161-4167.  doi: 10.12307/2023.121
    Abstract ( 213 )   PDF (1798KB) ( 64 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Vascular endothelial cells are the main target of arsenic toxicity and the molecular mechanism of arsenic-induced endothelial cell injury needs to be further studied.
    OBJECTIVE: To study the effects of sodium arsenite on human umbilical vein endothelial cell injury and sphingosine kinase 1/sphingosine 1-phosphate signaling axis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells.
    METHODS: Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were isolated, cultured, and identified. The cells were treated with 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 µmol/L sodium arsenite for 24 hours. Cell viability was detected by cell counting kit-8. Cell morphology was observed by inverted phase contrast microscope. The content of intracellular reactive oxygen species was detected by fluorescent probe DCFH-DA. Annexin V-FITC/PI double labeling combined with flow cytometry and TUNEL were used to detect apoptosis. The content of sphingosine 1-phosphate in cells was detected by ELISA. The mRNA and protein expressions of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, sphingosine kinase 1, and sphingosine 1-phosphate were detected by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR and western blot respectively. 
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the control group (0 µmol/L sodium arsenite), the cell viability decreased gradually along with the increased concentration of sodium arsenite in a dose-dependent manner; the cell fusion rate decreased gradually, the cell gap widened gradually, and the number of exfoliated and floating cells increased gradually; the reactive oxygen species content and apoptosis rate increased gradually; the sphingosine 1-phosphate content in cells increased gradually; the relative mRNA and protein expressions of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 and sphingosine kinase 1 increased gradually, but the relative mRNA and protein expression of sphingosine kinase 1 decreased gradually. To conclude, sodium arsenite-injured human umbilical vein endothelial cell injury may be related to the activation of sphingosine kinase 1/sphingosine 1-phosphate signaling axis and the downregulation of sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor 1. Sphingosine kinase 1/sphingosine 1-phosphate signaling axis may become a new target of arsenic-induced cardiovascular injury.
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    Effects of hydrogen sulfide in paraventricular nuclei on PI3K/Akt pathway and blood pressure in high salt-induced hypertensive rats
    Zhang Dongdong, Gu Qingyun, You Qingxin, Jin Yingxin, Zhang Jiani, Wang Haoran, Wang Fengyue, Chen Shuyue, Su Jialu, Liang Yanfeng
    2023, 27 (26):  4168-4174.  doi: 10.12307/2023.188
    Abstract ( 217 )   PDF (1258KB) ( 62 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: The paraventricular nucleus is the center of cardiovascular regulation, which plays an important role in the regulation of peripheral sympathetic nerves and blood pressure. As a new type of gas signal molecular, hydrogen sulfide has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidation effects. And the synthetase of hydrogen sulfide is expressed in the paraventricular nucleus. The mechanism of hydrogen sulfide in hypertension needs to be studied.
    OBJECTIVE: To study the effects of hydrogen sulfide in the paraventricular nucleus on blood pressure, peripheral sympathetic nerve activity and PI3K/Akt pathway in high salt-induced hypertensive rats and to explore the mechanism of hydrogen sulfide in hypertension.
    METHODS: Forty male Dahl rats were randomly divided into four groups: normal control group, normal intervention group, high-salt model group and high-salt intervention group. The rats in the two high-salt groups were fed high-salt diet for 4 weeks. The blood pressure of each rat was monitored by the caudal artery every week. After 4 weeks, the rats in the intervention groups were injected with GYY4137 in the bilateral paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus through a micro osmotic pump. Rats in the normal control group and the high-salt model group were given the same amount of artificial cerebrospinal fluid. After 6 weeks, the levels of plasma norepinephrine and hydrogen sulfide in the paraventricular nucleus were detected by ELISA, and the expressions of PI3K-p85, p-Akt and t-Akt in the paraventricular nucleus were detected by western blot and immunohistochemistry.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the normal control group, the levels of mean arterial pressure and plasma norepinephrine were significantly increased in the high-salt model group (P < 0.01). Compared with the high-salt model group, the levels of mean arterial pressure and plasma norepinephrine were significantly decreased in the high-salt intervention group (P < 0.01). Compared with the normal control group, the expressions of PI3K-P85 and p-Akt in the paraventricular nucleus were significantly increased in the high-salt model group (P < 0.01). Compared with the high-salt model group, the expressions of PI3K-P85 and p-Akt were significantly decreased in the high-salt intervention group (P < 0.01). These results suggest that hydrogen sulfide in the paraventricular nucleus can inhibit the peripheral sympathetic nerve activity and lower the blood pressure after high salt-induced hypertension. When the blood pressure is decreased by hydrogen sulfide, the PI3K/Akt pathway in the paraventricular nucleus can be significantly inhibited, which will lay a theoretical foundation for finding new targets and developing new drugs for the clinical treatment of hypertension.
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    miR-23b effects on transforming growth factor beta1 and osteoclast activity in synovial tissue of rats with rheumatoid arthritis
    Song Jianhui, Mu Jihong, Li Shiwen
    2023, 27 (26):  4175-4180.  doi: 10.12307/2023.407
    Abstract ( 278 )   PDF (1711KB) ( 53 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that an elevation in miR-23b is closely related to the occurrence and development of rheumatoid arthritis; therefore, inhibiting the expression of miR-23b can be a new target for the treatment of the disease. 
    OBJECTIVE: To explore the effect of miR-23b on the regulation of transforming growth factor-β1 in synovial tissue and the inhibition of osteoclast activity in rats with rheumatoid arthritis. 
    METHODS: Sixty SPF male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into normal control group, model group, miR-NC group, and miR-23b inhibitor group (n=15 per group). Except for the normal control group, animal models of rheumatoid arthritis were prepared in the other three groups using Fredrin complete adjuvant method. After successful modeling, the miR-NC group was injected with 20 μL of 1×108/L miR-NC and the miR-23b inhibitor group was injected with 20 μL of 1×108/L miR-23b inhibitor. Normal control group and model group were injected with the same volume of normal saline at the same time. Twenty-one days later, hematoxylin-eosin staining was used to detect the pathological morphology of the articular tissue of rats, real-time PCR was used to detect the relative mRNA expression of miR-23b in rat serum, and immunohistochemical method was used to detect the protein expression of transforming growth factor-β1 in the synovial tissue of rats. The activity of osteoclasts was detected by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining and phalloidin staining.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: In the normal control group, the structure of synovial cells was normal and neatly arranged. In the model and miR-NC groups, synovial cells proliferated obviously and arranged in disorder. At the same time, capillaries and fibrous connective tissue were obviously proliferated, accompanied by a large number of inflammatory cells infiltrated. In the miR-23b inhibitor group, mild hyperplasia of synovial cells and a small amount of inflammatory cell infiltration appeared, and edema and congestion were significantly improved. The relative expression of miR-23b in the serum was significantly increased in the model group compared with the normal control group (P < 0.05), while there was no significant difference between the model group and the miR-NC group (P > 0.05). The relative expression of miR-23b in the miR-23b inhibitor group was significantly lower than that in the miR-NC group 
    (P < 0.05). Compared with the normal control group, the expression of transforming growth factor-β1 protein in the synovial tissue was significantly increased in the model group (P < 0.05), while there was no significant difference between the model and miR-NC groups (P > 0.05). The expression of transforming growth factor-β1 protein in the synovial tissue was significantly lower in the miR-23b inhibitor group than the miR-NC group (P < 0.05). Compared with the normal control group, a highly positive expression of typical multinucleated osteoclasts was found in the synovial fibroblasts of the model group by the tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference between the model and the miR-NC groups (P > 0.05). The volume and number of osteoclasts in the miR-23b inhibitor group were significantly lower than those in the miR-NC group (P < 0.05). Compared with the normal control group, the phalloidin staining of osteoclasts significantly indicated the formation of rings composed of actin filaments in the model group (P < 0.05) and there was no significant difference between the model and miR-NC groups (P > 0.05), while the actin ring area was significantly reduced in the miR-23b inhibitor group compared with the miR-NC group (P < 0.05). The above results indicate that reducing the expression of miR-23b can play a therapeutic effect on rheumatoid arthritis, which can effectively inhibit the expression of transforming growth factor-β1 and reduce the activity of osteoclasts in rat synovial tissue.
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    Effect of traditional Chinese medicine hot compress on autophagy and expression of apoptosis related factors in the intervertebral disc of rabbits with cervical spondylosis
    Chen Jiali, Gao Hang, Zhao Ziying, Wang Guangyi
    2023, 27 (26):  4181-4186.  doi: 10.12307/2023.445
    Abstract ( 255 )   PDF (1234KB) ( 33 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Traditional Chinese medicine hot compress is a common method to treat cervical spondylosis. It has the unique advantages of convenient operation, stable curative effect and few side effects, but its effect mechanism is not clear.
    OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of traditional Chinese medicine hot compress on autophagy and expression of apoptosis related factors in the intervertebral disc of rabbits with cervical spondylosis and to explore its mechanism in the treatment of cervical spondylosis.
    METHODS: Twenty-four New Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into control group, model group, and traditional Chinese medicine hot compress group (drug group), with eight rabbits in each group. Except for the control group, 16 rabbits in the other two groups were used to establish the animal model of cervical spondylosis. The imaging changes of the cervical spine before and after modeling were compared to observe whether there were changes in the physiological curvature of the cervical spine, smaller intervertebral foramen, narrowing of the intervertebral space, and the formation of osteophytes, which could be used as the evaluation standard of modeling. After the animal model was established, the drug group was treated with traditional Chinese medicine hot compress intervention, 20 minutes per day, and the medicine bag was changed every 5 minutes, once a day, for 20 days in total. The other two groups were fed normally without intervention. The morphological changes of the cervical intervertebral disc of rabbits in each group were observed by hematoxylin-eosin staining. The apoptosis of intervertebral disc cells in each group was observed by TUNEL. The relative mRNA expression levels of Bcl-2, Beclin1, and microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 in the cervical intervertebral disc were measured by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The histological score of the cervical intervertebral disc in the model group was higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05), and the histological score of the intervertebral disc in the traditional Chinese medicine hot compress group was lower than that in the model group (P < 0.05).The apoptosis rate of rabbit cervical intervertebral disc in the model group was higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05), and the apoptosis rate of rabbit cervical intervertebral disc in the traditional Chinese medicine hot compress group was lower than that in the model group (P < 0.05). The relative mRNA expression levels of Bcl-2, Beclin1, and microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 in the model group were lower than those in the control group (P < 0.05), while the relative mRNA expression levels of Bcl-2, Beclin1, and microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 in the traditional Chinese medicine hot compress group were significantly higher than those in the model group (P < 0.05). To conclude, traditional Chinese medicine hot compress can increase the expression of autophagy factors in the intervertebral disc of rabbits with cervical spondylosis and reduce the apoptosis of intervertebral disc cells, so as to protect the intervertebral disc and improve cervical spondylosis.
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    Antiinflammatory and analgesic effects and mechanisms of coix seed and its components in adjuvant arthritis rats
    Yue Jing, Wang Shijun
    2023, 27 (26):  4187-4192.  doi: 10.12307/2023.185
    Abstract ( 292 )   PDF (1216KB) ( 65 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes joint inflammation and pain, which is categorized as arthralgia in traditional Chinese medicine. Coix seed-based prescription is the classic prescription for relieving arthralgia, but the active components and their mechanisms are still unclear.
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the anti-inflammatory effect and mechanism of coix seed and its components in adjuvant arthritis rats and to find the key anti-inflammatory components of coix seed. 
    METHODS: Sixty-four SPF Wistar rats were randomly divided into normal group, model group, dexamethasone group, coix seed decoction group, coix seed volatile oil group, coix seed protein group, coix seed polysaccharide group, and coix seed starch group. In addition to the normal group, animal models were successfully established in the other groups by subcutaneous injection of 0.2 mL of Freund’s complete adjuvant into the planta pedis of the right hindfoot. Drug administration by gavage began on the 14th day after modeling and lasted for 18 days. The control and model groups were given the same volume of normal saline. General conditions and body mass changes in rats were observed. The swelling degree of the feet was measured by perimeter method. Thymus and spleen indexes were detected. Levels of interleukin-1, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor α in the cartilage were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Histopathological changes of rat knee joint were observed by hematoxylin-eosin staining. 
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the normal group, the degree of joint swelling in each group reached the peak after modeling (14 days), and the body mass was significantly increased (P < 0.05). Compared with the model group, the body mass of rats in coix seed decoction group and coix seed volatile oil group decreased significantly (P < 0.05). Compared with the model group, the joint circumference of rats in the dexamethasone group and coix seed volatile oil group decreased significantly, and the degree of joint swelling decreased (both P < 0.05). Compared with the normal control group, the thymus index and spleen index increased significantly in the model group (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01). Compared with the model group, the thymus and spleen indexes in the dexamethasone group decreased significantly (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). Coix seed protein could significantly decrease the spleen index (P < 0.05). Compared with the normal control group, the levels of interleukin-1, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor α in serum were significantly downregulated in the dexamethasone group, coix seed volatile oil group, and coix seed protein group (P < 0.01). To conclude, coix seed protein and coix seed volatile oil have significant effects on rheumatoid arthritis in rats, which may reduce the serum levels of interleukin-1, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor α, thereby alleviating joint redness and swelling in adjuvant arthritis rats.
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    Effects of Yiqi Huoxue Tongluo Decoction on synovial cell apoptosis and ADAMTS-5 protein expression in a rat model of knee osteoarthritis
    Guo Chao, Li Qiyi, Cui Jinghong, Wang Hui, Tang Yanfeng
    2023, 27 (26):  4193-4199.  doi: 10.12307/2023.438
    Abstract ( 255 )   PDF (1985KB) ( 66 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: In recent years, there have been new progresses in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis by traditional Chinese medicine in terms of pathogenesis and clinical application. Therefore, Chinese medicines for relaxing tendons and dredging collaterals and replenishing qi and enriching the blood should be used as the treatment standard.
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of Yiqi Huoxue Tongluo Decoction on synovial cells, microstructure, and a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motif (ADAMTS)-5 protein of the knee joint in rats with knee osteoarthritis. 
    METHODS: A total of 60 healthy rats were selected and randomly divided into healthy group, model group, Chinese medicine low-dose group, Chinese medicine middle-dose group, Chinese medicine high-dose group, and western medicine group. Animal models of knee osteoarthritis were prepared in the latter five groups. At 24 hours after modeling, the rats in the healthy and model groups were intragastrically given normal saline 3 mg/kg per day, while those in the low-, middle-, and high-dose groups were intragastrically given Yiqi Huoxue Tongluo Decoction 3, 6, 9 mg/kg per day, respectively. In the western medicine group, prednisone was intragastrically administered, 5 mg/kg per day. After 4-week intervention, bone microstructure was detected. TUNEL was used to detect the apoptotic rate of synovial cells. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was used to observe the pathological morphology. Western blot and PCR were used to detect the expressions of ADAMTS-5, matrix metalloproteinase 1, and matrix metalloproteinase 3 in rat bone joints, respectively.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the healthy group, the number of trabecular bone, trabecular bone thickness, bone volume fraction, and bone mineral density of the knee joint were decreased, while structural model index, trabecular bone separation degree, and expression of ADAMTS-5, matrix metalloproteinase 1, and matrix metalloproteinase 3 mRNA and protein in the knee joint of rats were significantly increased in the model group (P < 0.05). The low-dose group shared similar effects with the model group (P > 0.05). Compared with the model group, the number of trabecular bone, trabecular bone thickness, bone volume fraction, and apoptotic rate of synovial cells were increased in the middle-dose group, while structural model index, trabecular bone separation degree, and expression of ADAMTS-5, matrix metalloproteinase 1, and matrix metalloproteinase 3 mRNA and protein in the knee joint were significantly decreased (P < 0.05). The middle-dose group shared similar effects with the western medicine group (P > 0.05). Compared with the middle-dose group, the above-mentioned indicators were all improved in the high-dose group (P < 0.05). In the model and low-dose groups, bone cells of the knee joint were severely damaged and a large number of inflammatory cells were observed. There was still chondrocyte destruction and inflammatory cell infiltration on the bone surface of knee joint in the middle-dose group and the western medicine group. In the high-dose group, a small number of inflammatory cells gathered and the knee surface bone tended to be smooth. All these findings indicate that Yiqi Huoxue Tongluo Decoction has a therapeutic effect on knee osteoarthritis rats, and the high-dose group has the most significant effect. Its mechanism may be related to the improvement of bone microstructure and regulation of synovial cell activity and ADAMTS-5 expression.
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    Effects of transcranial magneto-acousto-electrical stimulation on voltage-gated sodium and potassium channels in aged mice
    Zhang Shuai, Wang Yixiao, Wu Jiankang, Mi Jinrui, Li Zichun, Xu Guizhi
    2023, 27 (26):  4200-4207.  doi: 10.12307/2023.426
    Abstract ( 286 )   PDF (2215KB) ( 65 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Transcranial magneto-acousto-electrical stimulation (TMAES) is a new non-invasive neuromodulation technique, which uses the induced field generated by the coupling of ultrasound and static magnetic fields to regulate the firing activity of the nervous system, but the mechanism of its neuromodulatory effect is not yet clear.
    OBJECTIVE: To explore the intrinsic mediating mechanism of TMAES regulating the changes of neural excitability in aged mice.
    METHODS: Twenty aged mice were equally and randomly divided into aged control group (receiving pseudo-stimulation), magnetic field group (receiving 0.3 T static magnetic field stimulation), ultrasound group (receiving 2.6 W/cm2 ultrasound stimulation), and magneto-acoustical group (receiving 0.3 T and 2.6 W/cm2 coupling stimulation), with five mice in each group. Simulation in each group was done 2 minutes per day for 14 continuous days. Another five young mice (2 months of age) served as the young group (receiving pseudo-stimulation). Then, patch-clamp technique was used to record the ionic currents of relevant channels during cell activation, inactivation, and reactivation in brain slices of mice.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the aged control group, TMAES significantly increased the current peak value of sodium channels (P < 0.05), shifted the activation curve of voltage-gated sodium channel currents to the left, shifted the inactivation curve to the right, and shortened the reactivation time (P < 0.05). However, there was a significant difference between magneto-acoustical and young groups (P < 0.05). Compared with the aged control group, TMAES suppressed the current peaks of potassium channels, shifted the activation curves of both transient outward potassium currents and delayed rectifier potassium currents to the right, shifted the inactivation curves of transient outward potassium currents to the left, and extended the reactivation time of transient outward potassium currents. However, there was still a significant difference between magneto-acoustical and young groups (P < 0.05). All these findings indicate that TMAES can activate sodium currents and inhibit potassium currents through altering the dynamic characteristics of relevant ion channels, thereby improving the neural excitability of aged mice, but not up to the level of young mice. This neuromodulation technique is expected to provide potential possibilities for delaying aging.
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    Detection technology of mechanical properties of the arterial wall
    Jiang Songsong, Wang Cheng, Chen Shijiu
    2023, 27 (26):  4208-4213.  doi: 10.12307/2023.525
    Abstract ( 320 )   PDF (997KB) ( 108 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Vascular transplantation is a hot research topic in vascular surgery at present. However, the detection of mechanical properties of preserved vascular wall needs to be solved urgently. 
    OBJECTIVE: To summarize the techniques used by researchers to study arterial wall mechanics and the problems faced in this research direction. 
    METHODS: The first author searched CNKI, WanFang, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases for relevant literature published from 2016 to 2022. The Chinese search terms were “aortic blood vessel, arterial wall, mechanics, elasticity, detection method” and the English search terms were “aortic vessels, arterial walls, mechanical model, elastic structure, mechanical testing.” The relevant literature about the distribution of mechanical structure of aortic blood vessel walls and relevant detection methods were retrieved. Finally, 54 articles regarding mechanical and micromechanical testing were induced for review.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The arterial wall is characterized by complex microstructure, which affects the mechanical properties of vascular tissue. The main components include collagen and elastin fibers, proteoglycans, vascular smooth muscle cells, and matrix. These components are often damaged during cryopreservation. Among them, vascular smooth muscle cells play a key role in the active mechanical response of the arteries, and collagen and elastin determine the passive mechanical response. After the treatment of vascular grafts, the technologies of detecting vascular wall skeleton damage still need to be further explored or summarized to obtain a set of more accurate methods, so as to evaluate vascular wall skeleton damage in multiple dimensions and help in the screening of clinical vascular graft treatment schemes.
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    Activation of cannabinoid receptors promotes periodontal healing by regulating periodontal inflammation and bone remodeling
    Zhao Yuan, Zhai Haoyan, Liu Chunyan
    2023, 27 (26):  4214-4222.  doi: 10.12307/2023.530
    Abstract ( 315 )   PDF (999KB) ( 68 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Cannabinoid receptors, by binding to ligands, modulate inflammation and bone volume in periodontitis and promote healing of periodontal tissue, which is of great significance in the clinical prevention and treatment of periodontitis.
    OBJECTIVE: To review the relation between cannabinoid receptors and periodontitis, mainly cannabinoid type I (CB1) receptor and cannabinoid type II (CB2) receptor in relation to inflammation and remodeling of the alveolar bone, and the common cellular signaling pathways involved, thereby providing ideas for the prevention and treatment of periodontitis and its application in other clinical areas.
    METHODS: Relevant literature included in PubMed, WanFang database, and CNKI Database from July 1985 to July 2022 was searched. Search terms were “cannabinoids receptor, CB1 receptor and periodontitis, CB2 receptor and periodontitis, CB1 receptors and bone remodeling, CB2 receptors and bone remodeling, CB1 receptors and signaling pathways, CB2 receptors and signaling pathways” in English and Chinese. Totally 107 papers were finally included for review.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The endogenous cannabinoid system contains multiple receptors, the most representatives of which are CB1 and CB2 receptors, two members of the G protein-coupled superfamily. Both CB1 and CB2 receptors are expressed in periodontal tissue. In the presence of natural ligands or synthetic agonists, cannabinoid receptors can produce specific physiological effects in vitro and in vivo through different metabolic pathways. Then they can regulate the local inflammation and osteocyte generation and differentiation in periodontitis, ultimately influencing inflammation and bone mass. Further studies are needed on the relation between cannabinoid receptors and periodontitis inflammation and alveolar bone formation and resorption, as well as the common signaling pathways involved, such as mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway and nuclear factor-κB signaling pathway. It has become the focus of current research to provide new ideas for the prevention and treatment of periodontitis in clinical practice.
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    Changes in microvascular reactivity and exercise intervention in obese patients
    Xiao Zhe, Zhou Shufeng, Zhu Huan, Li Feng, Hu Jiangping
    2023, 27 (26):  4223-4230.  doi: 10.12307/2023.535
    Abstract ( 285 )   PDF (992KB) ( 41 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Microvascular dysfunction is a key factor in the occurrence and development of obesity. Aerobic exercise is not only an effective way to reduce fat and body mass, but also can improve microvascular function in obese people. However, some studies have pointed out that resistance exercise, aerobic combined resistance exercise and high-intensity intermittent exercise can also improve microvascular reactivity in obese people. 
    OBJECTIVE: To summarize the characteristics of microvascular reactivity in obese people and the intervention effects and main mechanisms of different exercise modes on microvascular reactivity in obese people, thereby providing a theoretical basis for improving microcirculation function in obese people. 
    METHODS: CNKI and PubMed were searched for relevant literature published from January 2000 to August 2022 using “obesity, microcirculation, microvessels, capillary, microvascular reactivity, microvascular vasodilatation, microvascular blood flow, exercise, training” as Chinese and English search terms. Finally, 61 articles were included for review. 
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: In the resting state, the function of microvascular endothelial cells is impaired in obese people, which leads to the decrease of microvascular reactivity. However, when oxidative stress and inflammation are not obvious in vivo, microvascular reactivity may not change significantly. During exercise, especially in the process of high-intensity exercise, the microvascular reactivity of obese people is significantly decreased, resulting in blood perfusion insufficiency. Aerobic exercise lasting 6-12 weeks, 3-5 times per week, with the exercise intensity of 65%-80% maximal heart rate can effectively improve microvascular reactivity in obese people, but the “dose-response” relationship of aerobic exercise in improving microvascular reactivity in obese people still needs to be further studied. Aerobic exercise combined with resistance exercise lasting 6-12 weeks, 3 times a week, with the exercise intensity of 65%-80% 1 repetition maximum can effectively improve microvascular reactivity in obese people, but resistance exercise alone requires longer intervention time. High-intensity intermittent exercise lasting 4-12 weeks, 2-3 times per week, with the exercise intensity of maximum aerobic intensity or above can improve microvascular reactivity in obese people. However, due to the lack of relevant studies, further studies are needed to clarify the intervention effect of high-intensity intermittent exercise on microvascular reactivity in obese people. Regulating the level of nitric oxide/endothelin-1 and the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor in different tissues may be the main mechanism by which exercise improves microvascular reactivity in obese people.
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    Modulatory effect of leptin on the effector cells of osteoarthritis
    Zhou Jing, Wu Xiaoxiao, Liu Wan, Wei Meng, Wu Miao, Zheng Lan
    2023, 27 (26):  4231-4238.  doi: 10.12307/2023.564
    Abstract ( 883 )   PDF (962KB) ( 67 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Leptin is a multipotent adipose factor and peptide hormone synthesized by adipose tissue, which was initially thought to play a major role in appetite regulation and energy balance. In-depth studies have revealed that leptin also plays a role in regulating chronic inflammation and musculoskeletal system diseases.
    OBJECTIVE: To review the concepts of leptin and leptin receptor and the regulation of leptin on the main effector cells in cartilage, subchondral bone and synovium in osteoarthritis.
    METHODS: By combining English search terms (Leptin, Obese Protein, Obese Gene Product, Gene Product, Obese, Ob Gene Product, Gene Product, Ob, Ob Protein, Osteoarthritis, OA, Osteoarthritides, Osteoarthrosis, Osteoarthroses, Arthritis, Degenerative, Arthritides, Degenerative, Degenerative Arthritides, Degenerative Arthritis, Arthrosis, Arthroses, Osteoarthrosis Deformans) and Chinese search terms (leptin, LP, Ob protein, obesity protein, osteoarthritis, OA, degenerative osteoarthritis, osteoarthropathy, osteoarthritis), PubMed, Web of Science, CNKI, cqVIP, and WanFang full-text database were searched for related articles about the effect of leptin on effector cells in the main tissues of osteoarthritis.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Leptin plays a regulatory role in the main tissue effector cells in bone joints and affects the occurrence and development of osteoarthritis. Leptin mainly decomposes the extracellular matrix in the cartilage, and promotes inflammation, inhibits autophagy, induces aging and apoptosis, and biphasically regulates the proliferation of chondrocytes. Leptin induces the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts, inhibits the activity and proliferation of osteoclasts, affects the remodeling of subchondral bone, and leads to the formation of osteophytes. Leptin regulates synovial macrophages and fibroblasts mainly by mediating inflammatory response in osteoarthritis. Leptin is expected to be a prognostic biomarker and a potential target for the treatment of osteoarthritis in the future.
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    Metabolomics evaluation of periodontitis: biomarkers, pathological mechanism and systemic relationship
    Zhao Zirui, Hu Qiaoyu, Qi Xia, Liu Qing
    2023, 27 (26):  4239-4245.  doi: 10.12307/2023.565
    Abstract ( 279 )   PDF (856KB) ( 66 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: In recent years, metabolomics technology is developing rapidly, and its research scope is very extensive. It can detect the global dynamic changes of small molecule metabolites in the whole body, such as the specific metabolites produced by the body when studying oral diseases. It provides new ideas for exploring the pathogenesis, pathogenic process, early diagnosis and prognosis monitoring of oral diseases. 
    OBJECTIVE: To review the application progress of metabolomics in periodontitis in recent years and prospect the existing problems and improvement methods, thereby providing reference for the diagnosis and treatment of periodontitis.
    METHODS: The first author searched the relevant literature from August 2010 to August 2020 in CNKI, WanFang, FMRS, Web of Science and PubMed databases. The search terms were “metabolomics, metabonomics, periodontitis, saliva, gingival sulcus fluid” in Chinese and English. After initial screening, 52 articles were included for review. 
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: At present, the sample sources of metabolomics research on periodontitis are mainly saliva, gingival sulcus fluid, serum, urine, cells, bacteria and tissues. Different sample sources have different advantages and disadvantages. The related research results of metabolomics and periodontitis mainly focus on the changes in metabolic pathways, such as protein, fat, carbohydrate and nucleotid. And these results are applied to identify the biomarkers of periodontitis, explore the pathological mechanism, treatment, and relationship with systemic diseases. They provide a new idea for the clinical and experimental research on periodontitis from the perspective of small molecule metabolites.
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    Exercise intervention strategies for frailty syndrome in the elderly
    Zhao Yongjun, Wang Wei, Bai Tao, Li Jianying
    2023, 27 (26):  4246-4253.  doi: 10.12307/2023.572
    Abstract ( 402 )   PDF (1036KB) ( 71 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Frailty is the result of the interaction between aging process and some chronic diseases, which increases the risk of disability and other adverse consequences due to the decline of body function. Exercise is considered to be one of the main strategies for the elderly to fight against physical injury related to frailty, but most elderly patients with frailty do not carry out any systematic exercise intervention.
    OBJECTIVE: To describe the research progress of different exercises in improving frailty syndrome in the elderly, thereby providing reference and basis for the pre-treatment of frailty by exercise in the elderly in different states.
    METHODS: A computer-based search of PubMed, Web of Science, CNKI, VIP and WanFang databases was performed for relevant articles using “exercise, physical activity, frailty, aging, multi-component intervention” as keywords in Chinese and English. Finally, 72 selected articles were summarized.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Among the exercise forms suitable for frailty syndrome in the elderly, aerobic training is the foundation, strength training is the core, power training and flexibility training are auxiliary, and balance training and virtual training are supplementary. Multicomponent exercise interventions are the best choice in the elderly. For the healthy elderly, aerobic and strength trainings are the main forms of exercise, supplemented by balance training, flexibility training and power training. For the elderly at the early stage of frailty, strength and aerobic trainings are the main forms of exercise, supplemented by balance training, flexibility training and power training. For the elderly with frailty, multicomponent interventions involving strength, endurance, power, balance and flexibility trainings were preferred. For the elderly inpatients, strength training is the main form of exercise, and aerobic, virtual, balance and flexibility trainings as the auxiliary forms of exercise are selected. With the increase of frailty, exercise intensity and exercise time should gradually decrease in the elderly in different states.
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    Muscle effect, dose-effect relationship, and physiological mechanism of KAATSU-resistance training
    Lei Senlin, Zhang Minghui, Ma Chunlian, Gao Weifeng, Xia Xiaoyan, Dong Kunwei
    2023, 27 (26):  4254-4264.  doi: 10.12307/2023.528
    Abstract ( 576 )   PDF (1144KB) ( 112 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: KAATSU-resistance training is a new training mode that achieves training effects through the dual stimulation of “kado” and “resistance.” Therefore, the muscle function performance is different under different KAATSU resistance training models. The dose-effect relationship between KAATSU-resistance training and muscle function performance is still inconclusive and the underlying physiological mechanism needs to be further explored.
    OBJECTIVE: To sort out the recent experimental research on KAATSU and resistance training worldwide, summarize the main training effects of KAATSU and resistance training, clarify the dose-effect relationship in KAATSU and resistance training, and deeply analyze the underlying physiological mechanism, thereby providing guidance for improving muscle target functional performance.
    METHODS: “ Blood flow restricting,” “pressure training,” “KAATSU training,” “KAATSU volume,” “resistance training,” “anaerobic training,” “strength training,” “muscle fitness,” “muscle hypertrophy,” “muscle strength,” “muscle endurance,” and “neuromuscular adaptation” in Chinese and English were used as keywords to conduct detailed searches in literature databases such as CNKI, WanFang, PubMed, Web of Science, and Springer. The retrieval date ended on June 30, 2022 and a total of 75 core related literatures were obtained according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: KAATSU-resistance training can strengthen muscle strength, improve muscle endurance, and promote neuromuscular adaptation. There may be an “inverted U-shaped” dose-effect relationship between KAATSU pressure and muscle function performance during KAATSU-resistance training. However, compression intervention with high occlusion pressure within the effective compression range can better enhance muscle strength performance, while compression intervention with medium occlusion pressure is more conducive to improving muscle endurance performance, and continuous compression is better than intermittent compression to promote neuromuscular adaptation. KAATSU-resistance training promotes muscle strength by inducing greater metabolic stress, promoting the secretion of muscle growth-related hormones, promoting neuromuscular adaptation, and regulating the expression of microRNAs and molecules related to skeletal muscle formation. Muscle endurance can be promoted via a series of physiological mechanisms, such as upregulating the expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase, hypoxia-inducible factor-1, vascular endothelial growth factor at gene or protein level, promoting skeletal muscle capillary angiogenesis, activating the phosphorylation of p38MAPK, AMPK signaling pathway, and its downstream peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator 1α, and promoting mitochondrial production and aerobic metabolic enzyme activity. Increased recruitment of type II muscle fibers evoking a higher threshold may promote neuromuscular adaptation.
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