Through the experience of being stationed on the USS Mercy hospital ship(T-AH19) and a preliminary comprehension of the personnel and material arrangements,processing and functional formats,and the multi-platform cont...Through the experience of being stationed on the USS Mercy hospital ship(T-AH19) and a preliminary comprehension of the personnel and material arrangements,processing and functional formats,and the multi-platform contributions of US Navy hospital ships,we briefly introduce the characteristics of US hospital ships regarding medical support,emergency rescue exercises,communications and training,international humanitarian aid,etc.We discuss the function and responsibility of Chinese hospital ships,focusing on the investigation of the construction mode and positioning in the navy.展开更多
To investigate the known and new factors associated with uninvestigated dyspepsia （UD）, we surveyed 8600 Chinese navy personnel with offshore training shorter than 1 month or longer than 9 months per year. All respo...To investigate the known and new factors associated with uninvestigated dyspepsia （UD）, we surveyed 8600 Chinese navy personnel with offshore training shorter than 1 month or longer than 9 months per year. All respondents were required to complete a questionnaire covering demographics, the Chinese version of the Rome Ⅲ survey, eating habits, life styles, and medical and family history. The response rate was 94.3% （8106/8600） with 4899 respondents qualified for analysis, including 1046 with offshore training and 3853 with onshore training. The prevalence of UD was higher in the offshore group than in the onshore group （12.6% vs. 6.9%, P〈0.001）, with a general prevalence of 8.1%. The subjects with offshore training were more likely to suffer from UD and postprandial distress syndrome （OR= 1.955 95% CI 1.568-2.439, P〈0.001 and OR=1.789, 95% CI 1.403-2.303, P〈0.001, respectively）. The mul- tivariate logistic regression analysis showed UD was associated with offshore training （OR=1.580, 95% CI 1.179-2.118, P=-0.002）, family history （OR=1.765, 95% CI 1.186-2.626, P=0.005） and smoking （OR=1.270, 95% CI 1.084-1.488, P=0.003）, but not with alcohol drinking. The association between dysentery history and UD was undetermined/borderline （P=0.056-0.069）. In conclusion, we identified offshore training as a new factor associated with UD, and also confirmed 2 known associated factors, family history and smoking.展开更多
Objective:This study aimed to survey the characteristics and treatments of cancer pain in Beijing hospitals,China.Methods:At 20:00 on December 22,2009,there conducted a questionnaire survey in 2238 patients with malig...Objective:This study aimed to survey the characteristics and treatments of cancer pain in Beijing hospitals,China.Methods:At 20:00 on December 22,2009,there conducted a questionnaire survey in 2238 patients with malignant tumors of 26 hospitals in Beijing,and the survey results were statistically analyzed.Results:The 531 cases in 2238 patients had pained and 121 cases (22.79%) had outbreak pain with one week.At 20:00 on December 22,2009,199 cases (38%) in the above-mentioned 531 pain patients suffered the moderate to severe pain (pain scores ≥ 4).The number of pain (pain scores ≥ 4) patients in the consecutive three days from December 20 to December 22 were 150.Conclusion:In the 531 cancer pain patients of the surveyed hospitals,38% of the patients were not satisfied with the pain control.Doctors believed that the main reason for pain not controlled was the non-standard treatment,but patients considered to be afraid of addiction.展开更多
Gastric neuroendocrine tumors (GNETs) are rare lesions characterized by hypergastrinemia that arise from enterochromaffin-like cells of the stomach. GNETs consist of a heterogeneous group of neoplasms comprising tumor...Gastric neuroendocrine tumors (GNETs) are rare lesions characterized by hypergastrinemia that arise from enterochromaffin-like cells of the stomach. GNETs consist of a heterogeneous group of neoplasms comprising tumor types of varying pathogenesis, histomorphologic characteristics, and biological behavior. A classification system has been proposed that distinguishes four types of GNETs; the clinicopathological features of the tumor, its prognosis, and the patient’s survival strictly depend on this classification. Thus, correct management of patients with GNETs can only be proposed when the tumor has been classified by an accurate pathological and clinical evaluation of the patient. Recently developed cancer therapies such as inhibition of angiogenesis or molecular targeting of growth factor receptors have been used to treat GNETs, but the only definitive therapy is the complete resection of the tumor. Here we review the literature on GNETs, and summarize the classification, clinicopathological features (especially prognosis), clinical presentations and current practice of management of GNETs. We also present the latest findings on new gene markers for GNETs, and discuss the effective drugs developed for the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of GNETs.展开更多
ABNORMALITIES during pregnancy are regarded as pathological pregnancy.Early detection of anomalies is urgent to take measures as soon as possible to prevent serious pregnancy complications.Procoagulant-anticoagulant i...ABNORMALITIES during pregnancy are regarded as pathological pregnancy.Early detection of anomalies is urgent to take measures as soon as possible to prevent serious pregnancy complications.Procoagulant-anticoagulant imbalance is often the pathological basis of many pathological pregnancy conditions,leading to a hypercoagulable state.We展开更多
This study investigated whether changes in circulating tumor cell(CTC) numbers reflect tumor progression and treatment efficacy in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma(ESCC). A 47-year-old male patient with ESCC is pres...This study investigated whether changes in circulating tumor cell(CTC) numbers reflect tumor progression and treatment efficacy in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma(ESCC). A 47-year-old male patient with ESCC is presented in this case study. The patient was evaluated for a series of serum tumor markers and subjected to radiological examinations before and after surgery and during follow-up over the course of five years. In addition, the CTCs in 7.5 m L of peripheral blood were enriched by magneticactivated cell sorting negative selection and identified by immunofluorescence staining. Serum tumor markers remained within normal ranges and were discordant with imaging scans during the follow-up. Initially, one CTC was detected in the peripheral blood sample, and 14 were observed seven days after the operation. After 12 wk, subcutaneous metastases and bone metastases occurred, and the number of CTCs increased to 84. After 48 wk, lung metastases were noted, and the CTC level was 21. At 104 wk, the number of CTCs was 14, and disease recurrence was detected by positron emission tomography-computed tomography. The CTC counts were in accord with the imaging studies at several time points. The additional information provided by CTC enumeration could thus facilitate monitoring of disease status and treatment efficacy and provide support for treatment decisions.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the effect of biliary drainage on inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), CD14 and TGR5 expression in rats with obstructive jaundice (OJ). METHODS: Male adult Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assi...AIM: To investigate the effect of biliary drainage on inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), CD14 and TGR5 expression in rats with obstructive jaundice (OJ). METHODS: Male adult Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to four groups: OJ, sham operation (SH), internal biliary drainage (ID) and external biliary drainage (ED). Rat models were successfully established by two operations and succumbed for extraction of Kupffer cells (KCs) and liver tissue collection on the 8 th and 15 th day. KCs were isolated by in situ hepatic perfusion and digested with collagen Ⅳ, density gradient centrifuged by percoll reagent and purified by cell culture attachment. The isolated KCs were cultured with the endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS) with and without the addition of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). The expression of iNOS, CD14 and bile acid receptor-TGR5 protein in rat liver tissues was determined by immunohistochemistry. The expression of iNOS and CD14 messenger RNA (mRNA) on the isolated KCs was detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and the TGR5 mRNA level in KCs was measured by real-time quantitative PCR. RESULTS: The iNOS protein was markedly expressed in the liver of OJ rats, but rare expressed in SH rats. After relief of OJ, the iNOS expression was decidedly suppressed in the ID group (ID vs OJ, P < 0.01), but obviously increased in rats of ED (ED vs OJ, P=0.004). When interfered only with LPS, the expression of iNOS mRNA by KCs was increased in the OJ group compared with the SH group (P=0.004). After relief of biliary obstruction, the iNOS mRNA expression showed slight changes in the ED group (ED vs OJ, P=0.71), but dropped in the ID group (ID vs OJ, P=0.001). Compared with the simple intervention with LPS, the expressions of iNOS mRNA were significantly inhibited in all four groups after interfered with both LPS and UDCA (P < 0.01, respectively). After bile duct ligation, the CD14 protein expression in rat liver was significantly strengthened (OJ vs SH, P < 0.01), but the CD14 mRNA level by KCs was not up-regulated (OJ vs SH, P=0.822). After relieving the OJ, the expression of CD14 protein was reduced in the ID group (ID vs OJ, P < 0.01), but not reduced in ED group (ED vs OJ, P=0.591). And then the CD14 mRNA expression was aggravated by ED (ED vs OJ, P < 0.01), but was not significantly different between the ID group and the SH and OJ groups (ID vs SH, P=0.944; ID vs OJ, P=0.513, respectively). The expression of TGR5 protein and mRNA increased significantly in OJ rats (OJ vs SH, P=0.001, respectively). After relief of OJ, ID could reduce the expression of TGR5 protein and mRNA to the levels of SH group (ID vs SH, P=0.22 and P=0.354, respectively), but ED could not (ED vs SH, P=0.001, respectively).CONCLUSION: ID could be attributed to the regulatory function of activation of KCs and release of inflammatory mediators.展开更多
Bevacizumab, an angiogenesis inhibitor, is a recombined humanized monoclonal antibody against vascular endothelial growth factor and a promising therapeutic option for angiosarcoma management. This is a ease report an...Bevacizumab, an angiogenesis inhibitor, is a recombined humanized monoclonal antibody against vascular endothelial growth factor and a promising therapeutic option for angiosarcoma management. This is a ease report and review of the literature using bevacizumab and combination chemotherapy for angiosarcoma. The understanding of the effectiveness of combined therapy of bevacizumab and chemotherapy agents is still limited. The benefits of bevacizumab treatment for angiosarcoma will need to be weighed against the risks of venous thromboembolism in this population.展开更多
Objective To investigate the clinical application value of Loewenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment （LOTCA） battery in Chinese patients with post-stroke aphasia. Methods Cognitive fimctions of 59 Chine...Objective To investigate the clinical application value of Loewenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment （LOTCA） battery in Chinese patients with post-stroke aphasia. Methods Cognitive fimctions of 59 Chinese patients with aphasia following a stroke were assessed with the Chinese version of the second edition of LOTCA battery and their linguistic functions were tested with the Western Aphasia Battery （WAB） Scale, respectively. The results of LOTCA were analyzed and compared across different groups, in the light of gender, age, educational background, the length of illness, and the degree of aphasia.展开更多
Aim: To assess the quality of high-resolution CT section planes(HRCT), multi-planar reformation(MPR) and 3-dimensional volume rendered computer tomography(3D-CTVR) were here used in the fine differential diagnosis of ...Aim: To assess the quality of high-resolution CT section planes(HRCT), multi-planar reformation(MPR) and 3-dimensional volume rendered computer tomography(3D-CTVR) were here used in the fine differential diagnosis of ossicular chain in the case of conductive hearing loss with intact tympanic membrane.Methods: Here, 17 cases of otosclerosis and 22 cases of ossicular chain deformity were selected. All patients had normal external ear canals,intact tympanic membranes, conductive hearing loss, type A tympanograms, and negative Gelle's tests. The respective radiological reports of the status of the ossicles via 3 protocols were compared to surgical findings. The quantitative assessments of the representation of different segments of the ossicular chain were based on a 3-point scoring system.Results: MPR and CTVR imaging both showed the integrity of whole ossicular chain well. MPR and CTVR imaging were found to be superior to section planes with respect to showing the superstructure of the stapes and malformations(P > 0.05).Conclusion: CTVR and MPR imaging were found to be better able to show the whole ossicular chain in the conductive hearing loss with normal tympanic membranes. Furthermore, the use of these techniques can have profound contributive value in the differential diagnosis of otosclerosis and ossicular chain absence or malformation.展开更多
Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of transepithelial collagen cross-linking by iontophoretic delivery of riboflavin in treatment of progressive keratoconus.Methods:.Eleven patients(15 eyes) with progressive...Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of transepithelial collagen cross-linking by iontophoretic delivery of riboflavin in treatment of progressive keratoconus.Methods:.Eleven patients(15 eyes) with progressive keratoconus were enrolled. After 0.1% riboflavin-distilled water solution was deliveried via transepithelial iontophpresis for 5 min with 1 m A current, and ultraviolet radiation(370 nm,.3 m W /cm2) was performed at a 1.5 cm distance for 30 min. The follow up were 6 months in all eyes. The uncorrected visual acuity, corrected visual acuity,endothelial cell counting, corneal thickness,.intraocular pressure, corneal curvature, corneal topography,.OCT and corneal opacity before and 6-month after surgery were analyzed.Results: At 6 month postoperatively, mean uncorrected visual acuity and corrected visual acuity changed from 0.36 to 0.30 and from 0.42 to 0.57 without statistical significance..The mean value of each index of corneal curvature declined without statistical significance.Kmax value dereased from 60.91 to59.91, and the astigmatism declined from 3.86 to 3.19. Central corneal thickness decreased from 460.93 μm to 455.40μm,.and thinnest corneal thickness declined from 450.87 μm to 440.60 μm with no statistical significance..Intraocular pressure was significantly elevated from 10.85 mm Hg to 12.62 mm Hg. Endothelial cell count did not change significantly. No corneal haze occurred. Mean depth of corneal demarcation line was 288.46 μm at 1 month postoperatively..Conclusion:.Transepithelial corneal collagen cross-linking by iontophoresis is effective and safe in the treatment of progressive keratoconus, and yields stable clinical outcomes during 6-month follow up..However,.long-term follow up is urgently required.展开更多
AIM To determine a panel of serum micro RNAs(mi RNAs) that could be used as novel biomarkers for diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).METHODS We initially screened 9 out of 754 serum mi RNAs by Taq Man Low Densi...AIM To determine a panel of serum micro RNAs(mi RNAs) that could be used as novel biomarkers for diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).METHODS We initially screened 9 out of 754 serum mi RNAs by Taq Man Low Density Array in two pooled samples respectively from 35 HCC and 35 normal controls, and then validated individually by RT-qP CR in another 114 patients and 114 controls arranged in two phases. The changes of the selected mi RNAs after operation and their prognostic value were examined.RESULTS miR-375, miR-10 a, miR-122 and miR-423 were found to be significantly higher in HCC than in controls(P < 0.0001), and the area under the receiver-operating-characteristic curve for the 4-miR NA panel was 0.995(95%CI: 0.985-1). All the four mi RNAs were significantly reduced after surgical removal of the tumors(P < 0.0001), while still higher than normal controls(at least P < 0.05)CONCLUSION The four serum miR NAs(miR-375, miR-10 a, miR-122 and miR-423) could potentially serve as novel biomarkers for the diagnostic and prognostic of HCC.展开更多
BACKGROUND Intervertebral disc(IVD) degeneration is a condition characterized by a reduction in the water and extracellular matrix content of the nucleus pulposus(NP) and is considered as one of the dominating contrib...BACKGROUND Intervertebral disc(IVD) degeneration is a condition characterized by a reduction in the water and extracellular matrix content of the nucleus pulposus(NP) and is considered as one of the dominating contributing factors to low back pain. Recent evidence suggests that stromal cell-derived factor 1α(SDF-1α) and its receptor CX-C chemokine receptor type 4(CXCR4) direct the migration of stem cells associated with injury repair in different musculoskeletal tissues.AIM To investigate the effects of SDF-1α on recruitment and chondrogenic differentiation of nucleus pulposus-derived stem cells(NPSCs).METHODS We performed real-time RT-PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to examine the expression of SDF-1α in nucleus pulposus cells after treatment with pro-inflammatory cytokines in vitro. An animal model of IVD degeneration was established using annular fibrosus puncture in rat coccygeal discs. Tissue samples were collected from normal control and degeneration groups.Differences in the expression of SDF-1α between the normal and degenerative IVDs were analyzed by immunohistochemistry. The migration capacity of NPSCs induced by SDF-1α was evaluated using wound healing and transwell migration assays. To determine the effect of SDF-1α on chondrogenic differentiation of NPSCs, we conducted cell micromass culture and examined the expression levels of Sox-9, aggrecan, and collagen II. Moreover, the roles of SDF-1/CXCR4 axis in the migration and chondrogenesis differentiation of NPSCs were analyzed by immunofluorescence, immunoblotting, and real-time RT-PCR.RESULTS SDF-1α was significantly upregulated in the native IVD cells cultured in vitro with pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α, mimicking the degenerative settings. Immunohistochemical staining showed that the level of SDF-1α was also significantly higher in the degenerative group than in the normal group. SDF-1α enhanced the migration capacity of NPSCs in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, SDF-1α induced chondrogenic differentiation of NPSCs, as evidenced by the increased expression of chondrogenic markers using histological and immunoblotting analyses. Realtime RT-PCR, immunoblotting, and immunofluorescence showed that SDF-1αnot only increased CXCR4 expression but also stimulated translocation of CXCR4 from the cytoplasm to membrane, accompanied by cytoskeletal rearrangement.Furthermore, blocking CXCR4 with AMD3100 effectively suppressed the SDF-1α-induced migration and differentiation capacities of NPSCs.CONCLUSION These findings demonstrate that SDF-1α has the potential to enhance recruitment and chondrogenic differentiation of NPSCs via SDF-1/CXCR4 chemotaxis signals that contribute to IVD regeneration.展开更多
AIM To understand the cellular and molecular changes inperipheral blood that can lead to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) and provide new methods for its diagnosis and treatment.METHODS Peripheral bloo...AIM To understand the cellular and molecular changes inperipheral blood that can lead to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) and provide new methods for its diagnosis and treatment.METHODS Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated from the peripheral blood of HCC patients and normal controls and then analyzed by flow cytometry. The percentage of transforming growth factor-β(TGF-β)+ regulatory cells(Tregs) in the peripheral blood was measured, and the expression of TGF-β was also determined. Then, the relationship between the changes and the 5-year survival of patients was analyzed. In addition, recombinant human TGF-β(rh TGF-β) and recombinant human interleukin-6 were added to stimulate the cultured cells, and their effects on HCC were evaluated.RESULTS The expression of TGF-β and the percentage of TGF-β+ Tregs in the peripheral blood of HCC patients increased significantly compared with normal controls. Compared with the low TGF-β expression group, the high TGF-β expression group had a significantly lower 5-year survival rate, and the same result was found in the two TGF-β+ Treg groups, suggesting that TGF-β and TGF-β+ Tregs were negatively correlated with the overall survival of the patients. In addition, rh TGF-β promoted the growth of tumor cells and induced high expression levels of IL-6, which further promoted tumor proliferation.CONCLUSION The results showed that TGF-β may promote tumor growth and proliferation by inducing the production of IL-6, and TGF-β and TGF-β+ Tregs may serve as new markers for predicting a poor prognosis in HCC.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the efficacy of quick repositioning maneuver for horizontal semicircular canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (H-BPPV). Methods:Clinical data of 67 patients with H-BPPV who underwent qu...Objective:To investigate the efficacy of quick repositioning maneuver for horizontal semicircular canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (H-BPPV). Methods:Clinical data of 67 patients with H-BPPV who underwent quick repositioning maneuver in our hospital from July 2009 to November 2014 were retrospectively analyzed. The maneuver involved rotating the patient in the axial plane for 180? from the involved side towards contralateral side as quickly as possible. Results:Complete symptom resolution was achieved in 61 patients (91.0%) at one week and in 64 patients (95.5%) at 3 months post-treatment. During the repositioning maneuver process, there were no obvious untoward responses except transient nausea with or without vomiting in a few patients. Conclusion:The results indicate that the quick repositioning maneuver is an easy and effective alternative treatment in the management of H-BPPV. Copyright ? 2015 The Authors. Production & hosting by Elsevier (Singapore) Pte Ltd On behalf of PLA General Hospital Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).展开更多
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of corneal collagen crosslinking (01) to prevent the progression of post-laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) corneal ectasia. METHODS: In a prospective, nonrandomized, single-...AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of corneal collagen crosslinking (01) to prevent the progression of post-laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) corneal ectasia. METHODS: In a prospective, nonrandomized, single-centre study, CXL was performed in 20 eyes of 11 patients who had LASIK for myopic astigmatism and subsequently developed keratectasia. The procedure included instillation of 0.1% riboflavin-20% dextrane solution 30 minutes before UVA irradiation and every 5 minutes for an additional 30 minutes during irradiation. The eyes were evaluated preoperatively and at 1-, 3-, 6-, and 12-month intervals. The complete ophthalmologic examination comprised uncorrected visual acuity, best spectacle-corrected visual acuity, endothelial cell count, ultrasound pachymetry, corneal topography, and in vivo confocal microscopy. RESULTS: CXL appeared to stabilise or partially reverse the progression of post-LASIK corneal ectasia without apparent complication in our cohort. UCVA and BCVA improvements were statistically significant (P<0.05)beyond 12 months after surgery (improvement of 0.07 and 0.13 logMAR at 1 year, respectively). Mean baseline flattest meridian keratometry and mean steepest meridian keratometry reduction (improvement of 2.00 and 1.50 diopters (D), respectively) were statistically significant (P < 0.05) at 12 months postoperatively. At 1 year after 01, mean endothelial cell count did not deteriorate. Mean thinnest cornea pachymetry increased significantly. CONCLUSION: The results of the study showed a long-term stability of post-LASIK corneal ectasia after crosslinking without relevant side effects. It seems to be a safe and promising procedure to stop the progression of post-LASIK keratectasia, thereby avoiding or delaying keratoplasty.展开更多
In vitro experiments have demonstrated that neuronal-like cells derived from bone marrow mesen- chymal stem cells can survive, migrate, integrate and help to restore the function and behaviors of spinal cord injury mo...In vitro experiments have demonstrated that neuronal-like cells derived from bone marrow mesen- chymal stem cells can survive, migrate, integrate and help to restore the function and behaviors of spinal cord injury models, and that they may serve as a suitable approach to treating spinal cord injury. However, it is very difficult to track transplanted cells in vivo. In this study, we injected su- perparamagnetic iron oxide-labeled neuronal-like cells into the subarachnoid space in a rabbit model of spinal cord injury. At 7 days after cell transplantation, a small number of dot-shaped low signal intensity shadows were observed in the spinal cord injury region, and at 14 days, the number of these shadows increased on T2-weighted imaging. Perl＇s Prussian blue staining detected dot-shaped low signal intensity shadows in the spinal cord injury region, indicative of superpara- magnetic iron oxide nanoparticle-labeled cells. These findings suggest that transplanted neu- ronal-like cells derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells can migrate to the spinal cord injury region and can be tracked by magnetic resonance in vivo. Magnetic resonance imaging represents an efficient noninvasive technique for visually tracking transplanted cells in vivo.展开更多
Purpose: To determine the penetrability of riboflavin into the corneal stroma by iontophoresis and to compare the permeability effects of different solvents.Methods: Twenty rabbits were randomly divided into four grou...Purpose: To determine the penetrability of riboflavin into the corneal stroma by iontophoresis and to compare the permeability effects of different solvents.Methods: Twenty rabbits were randomly divided into four groups: a group that received 0.1% riboflavin-balanced salt solution(BSS) by iontophoresis, a group that received 0.1%riboflavin-saline solution by iontophoresis, a group that received 0.1% riboflavin-distilled water solution by iontophoresis, and a control group that received classical riboflavin instillation after corneal de-epithelialization. The degree of yellowing of the de-epithelialized corneal stromal button from each rabbit was compared.Results: The yellow color scores for the corneal stromal buttons in the three iontophoresis groups were compared with those of control group. Iontophoretic delivery of a 0.1% riboflavin-distilled water solution yielded similar yellow changes in the corneal stromal button when compared with classical riboflavin instillation after de-epithelialization. However, the other two solvents did not sufficiently enhance the permeability of riboflavin.Conclusion: Riboflavin can effectively penetrate into the corneal stroma to saturation levels by iontophoresis. Using distilled water as the solvent can promote penetrability.展开更多
文摘Through the experience of being stationed on the USS Mercy hospital ship(T-AH19) and a preliminary comprehension of the personnel and material arrangements,processing and functional formats,and the multi-platform contributions of US Navy hospital ships,we briefly introduce the characteristics of US hospital ships regarding medical support,emergency rescue exercises,communications and training,international humanitarian aid,etc.We discuss the function and responsibility of Chinese hospital ships,focusing on the investigation of the construction mode and positioning in the navy.
文摘To investigate the known and new factors associated with uninvestigated dyspepsia （UD）, we surveyed 8600 Chinese navy personnel with offshore training shorter than 1 month or longer than 9 months per year. All respondents were required to complete a questionnaire covering demographics, the Chinese version of the Rome Ⅲ survey, eating habits, life styles, and medical and family history. The response rate was 94.3% （8106/8600） with 4899 respondents qualified for analysis, including 1046 with offshore training and 3853 with onshore training. The prevalence of UD was higher in the offshore group than in the onshore group （12.6% vs. 6.9%, P〈0.001）, with a general prevalence of 8.1%. The subjects with offshore training were more likely to suffer from UD and postprandial distress syndrome （OR= 1.955 95% CI 1.568-2.439, P〈0.001 and OR=1.789, 95% CI 1.403-2.303, P〈0.001, respectively）. The mul- tivariate logistic regression analysis showed UD was associated with offshore training （OR=1.580, 95% CI 1.179-2.118, P=-0.002）, family history （OR=1.765, 95% CI 1.186-2.626, P=0.005） and smoking （OR=1.270, 95% CI 1.084-1.488, P=0.003）, but not with alcohol drinking. The association between dysentery history and UD was undetermined/borderline （P=0.056-0.069）. In conclusion, we identified offshore training as a new factor associated with UD, and also confirmed 2 known associated factors, family history and smoking.
文摘Objective:This study aimed to survey the characteristics and treatments of cancer pain in Beijing hospitals,China.Methods:At 20:00 on December 22,2009,there conducted a questionnaire survey in 2238 patients with malignant tumors of 26 hospitals in Beijing,and the survey results were statistically analyzed.Results:The 531 cases in 2238 patients had pained and 121 cases (22.79%) had outbreak pain with one week.At 20:00 on December 22,2009,199 cases (38%) in the above-mentioned 531 pain patients suffered the moderate to severe pain (pain scores ≥ 4).The number of pain (pain scores ≥ 4) patients in the consecutive three days from December 20 to December 22 were 150.Conclusion:In the 531 cancer pain patients of the surveyed hospitals,38% of the patients were not satisfied with the pain control.Doctors believed that the main reason for pain not controlled was the non-standard treatment,but patients considered to be afraid of addiction.
基金Supported by National Natural Scientific Foundation of China,No.B1070296
文摘Gastric neuroendocrine tumors (GNETs) are rare lesions characterized by hypergastrinemia that arise from enterochromaffin-like cells of the stomach. GNETs consist of a heterogeneous group of neoplasms comprising tumor types of varying pathogenesis, histomorphologic characteristics, and biological behavior. A classification system has been proposed that distinguishes four types of GNETs; the clinicopathological features of the tumor, its prognosis, and the patient’s survival strictly depend on this classification. Thus, correct management of patients with GNETs can only be proposed when the tumor has been classified by an accurate pathological and clinical evaluation of the patient. Recently developed cancer therapies such as inhibition of angiogenesis or molecular targeting of growth factor receptors have been used to treat GNETs, but the only definitive therapy is the complete resection of the tumor. Here we review the literature on GNETs, and summarize the classification, clinicopathological features (especially prognosis), clinical presentations and current practice of management of GNETs. We also present the latest findings on new gene markers for GNETs, and discuss the effective drugs developed for the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of GNETs.
文摘ABNORMALITIES during pregnancy are regarded as pathological pregnancy.Early detection of anomalies is urgent to take measures as soon as possible to prevent serious pregnancy complications.Procoagulant-anticoagulant imbalance is often the pathological basis of many pathological pregnancy conditions,leading to a hypercoagulable state.We
基金Supported by Grants from the High-tech R and D Program,No.2012AA020206,No.2014CBA02002,and No.2013ZX10002009-001-004State Key Projects for Basic Research,No.2011CB910703+1 种基金National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81372591 and No.81321091the Center for Marine Medicine and Rescue of Tsinghua University of China
文摘This study investigated whether changes in circulating tumor cell(CTC) numbers reflect tumor progression and treatment efficacy in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma(ESCC). A 47-year-old male patient with ESCC is presented in this case study. The patient was evaluated for a series of serum tumor markers and subjected to radiological examinations before and after surgery and during follow-up over the course of five years. In addition, the CTCs in 7.5 m L of peripheral blood were enriched by magneticactivated cell sorting negative selection and identified by immunofluorescence staining. Serum tumor markers remained within normal ranges and were discordant with imaging scans during the follow-up. Initially, one CTC was detected in the peripheral blood sample, and 14 were observed seven days after the operation. After 12 wk, subcutaneous metastases and bone metastases occurred, and the number of CTCs increased to 84. After 48 wk, lung metastases were noted, and the CTC level was 21. At 104 wk, the number of CTCs was 14, and disease recurrence was detected by positron emission tomography-computed tomography. The CTC counts were in accord with the imaging studies at several time points. The additional information provided by CTC enumeration could thus facilitate monitoring of disease status and treatment efficacy and provide support for treatment decisions.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China,No. 30470790 and 30971355
文摘AIM: To investigate the effect of biliary drainage on inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), CD14 and TGR5 expression in rats with obstructive jaundice (OJ). METHODS: Male adult Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to four groups: OJ, sham operation (SH), internal biliary drainage (ID) and external biliary drainage (ED). Rat models were successfully established by two operations and succumbed for extraction of Kupffer cells (KCs) and liver tissue collection on the 8 th and 15 th day. KCs were isolated by in situ hepatic perfusion and digested with collagen Ⅳ, density gradient centrifuged by percoll reagent and purified by cell culture attachment. The isolated KCs were cultured with the endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS) with and without the addition of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). The expression of iNOS, CD14 and bile acid receptor-TGR5 protein in rat liver tissues was determined by immunohistochemistry. The expression of iNOS and CD14 messenger RNA (mRNA) on the isolated KCs was detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and the TGR5 mRNA level in KCs was measured by real-time quantitative PCR. RESULTS: The iNOS protein was markedly expressed in the liver of OJ rats, but rare expressed in SH rats. After relief of OJ, the iNOS expression was decidedly suppressed in the ID group (ID vs OJ, P < 0.01), but obviously increased in rats of ED (ED vs OJ, P=0.004). When interfered only with LPS, the expression of iNOS mRNA by KCs was increased in the OJ group compared with the SH group (P=0.004). After relief of biliary obstruction, the iNOS mRNA expression showed slight changes in the ED group (ED vs OJ, P=0.71), but dropped in the ID group (ID vs OJ, P=0.001). Compared with the simple intervention with LPS, the expressions of iNOS mRNA were significantly inhibited in all four groups after interfered with both LPS and UDCA (P < 0.01, respectively). After bile duct ligation, the CD14 protein expression in rat liver was significantly strengthened (OJ vs SH, P < 0.01), but the CD14 mRNA level by KCs was not up-regulated (OJ vs SH, P=0.822). After relieving the OJ, the expression of CD14 protein was reduced in the ID group (ID vs OJ, P < 0.01), but not reduced in ED group (ED vs OJ, P=0.591). And then the CD14 mRNA expression was aggravated by ED (ED vs OJ, P < 0.01), but was not significantly different between the ID group and the SH and OJ groups (ID vs SH, P=0.944; ID vs OJ, P=0.513, respectively). The expression of TGR5 protein and mRNA increased significantly in OJ rats (OJ vs SH, P=0.001, respectively). After relief of OJ, ID could reduce the expression of TGR5 protein and mRNA to the levels of SH group (ID vs SH, P=0.22 and P=0.354, respectively), but ED could not (ED vs SH, P=0.001, respectively).CONCLUSION: ID could be attributed to the regulatory function of activation of KCs and release of inflammatory mediators.
基金supported by the Wu Jieping Medical Foundation Grant (No. 320.6750.11074)
文摘Bevacizumab, an angiogenesis inhibitor, is a recombined humanized monoclonal antibody against vascular endothelial growth factor and a promising therapeutic option for angiosarcoma management. This is a ease report and review of the literature using bevacizumab and combination chemotherapy for angiosarcoma. The understanding of the effectiveness of combined therapy of bevacizumab and chemotherapy agents is still limited. The benefits of bevacizumab treatment for angiosarcoma will need to be weighed against the risks of venous thromboembolism in this population.
文摘Objective To investigate the clinical application value of Loewenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment （LOTCA） battery in Chinese patients with post-stroke aphasia. Methods Cognitive fimctions of 59 Chinese patients with aphasia following a stroke were assessed with the Chinese version of the second edition of LOTCA battery and their linguistic functions were tested with the Western Aphasia Battery （WAB） Scale, respectively. The results of LOTCA were analyzed and compared across different groups, in the light of gender, age, educational background, the length of illness, and the degree of aphasia.
文摘Aim: To assess the quality of high-resolution CT section planes(HRCT), multi-planar reformation(MPR) and 3-dimensional volume rendered computer tomography(3D-CTVR) were here used in the fine differential diagnosis of ossicular chain in the case of conductive hearing loss with intact tympanic membrane.Methods: Here, 17 cases of otosclerosis and 22 cases of ossicular chain deformity were selected. All patients had normal external ear canals,intact tympanic membranes, conductive hearing loss, type A tympanograms, and negative Gelle's tests. The respective radiological reports of the status of the ossicles via 3 protocols were compared to surgical findings. The quantitative assessments of the representation of different segments of the ossicular chain were based on a 3-point scoring system.Results: MPR and CTVR imaging both showed the integrity of whole ossicular chain well. MPR and CTVR imaging were found to be superior to section planes with respect to showing the superstructure of the stapes and malformations(P > 0.05).Conclusion: CTVR and MPR imaging were found to be better able to show the whole ossicular chain in the conductive hearing loss with normal tympanic membranes. Furthermore, the use of these techniques can have profound contributive value in the differential diagnosis of otosclerosis and ossicular chain absence or malformation.
文摘Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of transepithelial collagen cross-linking by iontophoretic delivery of riboflavin in treatment of progressive keratoconus.Methods:.Eleven patients(15 eyes) with progressive keratoconus were enrolled. After 0.1% riboflavin-distilled water solution was deliveried via transepithelial iontophpresis for 5 min with 1 m A current, and ultraviolet radiation(370 nm,.3 m W /cm2) was performed at a 1.5 cm distance for 30 min. The follow up were 6 months in all eyes. The uncorrected visual acuity, corrected visual acuity,endothelial cell counting, corneal thickness,.intraocular pressure, corneal curvature, corneal topography,.OCT and corneal opacity before and 6-month after surgery were analyzed.Results: At 6 month postoperatively, mean uncorrected visual acuity and corrected visual acuity changed from 0.36 to 0.30 and from 0.42 to 0.57 without statistical significance..The mean value of each index of corneal curvature declined without statistical significance.Kmax value dereased from 60.91 to59.91, and the astigmatism declined from 3.86 to 3.19. Central corneal thickness decreased from 460.93 μm to 455.40μm,.and thinnest corneal thickness declined from 450.87 μm to 440.60 μm with no statistical significance..Intraocular pressure was significantly elevated from 10.85 mm Hg to 12.62 mm Hg. Endothelial cell count did not change significantly. No corneal haze occurred. Mean depth of corneal demarcation line was 288.46 μm at 1 month postoperatively..Conclusion:.Transepithelial corneal collagen cross-linking by iontophoresis is effective and safe in the treatment of progressive keratoconus, and yields stable clinical outcomes during 6-month follow up..However,.long-term follow up is urgently required.
基金Supported by Grants from the State Key Projects for Basic Re-search,No.2011CB910703 and No.2012ZX10002-017(to Zhao XH)National High-tech R and D Program,No.2013AA041201(to Qian YM)and No.2012AA020206(to Zhao XH)+1 种基金National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81372591 and No.81321091(to Zhao XH)the Research Foundation of the Center for Marine Medicine and Rescue of Tsinghua University and NGH(to Qian YM and Zhao XH)
文摘AIM: To develop a novel method for the rapid and efficient extraction of exosomes secreted by tumor cells.
基金Supported by the National Key R&D Program of China,No.2016YFC0106604National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81502591
文摘AIM To determine a panel of serum micro RNAs(mi RNAs) that could be used as novel biomarkers for diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).METHODS We initially screened 9 out of 754 serum mi RNAs by Taq Man Low Density Array in two pooled samples respectively from 35 HCC and 35 normal controls, and then validated individually by RT-qP CR in another 114 patients and 114 controls arranged in two phases. The changes of the selected mi RNAs after operation and their prognostic value were examined.RESULTS miR-375, miR-10 a, miR-122 and miR-423 were found to be significantly higher in HCC than in controls(P < 0.0001), and the area under the receiver-operating-characteristic curve for the 4-miR NA panel was 0.995(95%CI: 0.985-1). All the four mi RNAs were significantly reduced after surgical removal of the tumors(P < 0.0001), while still higher than normal controls(at least P < 0.05)CONCLUSION The four serum miR NAs(miR-375, miR-10 a, miR-122 and miR-423) could potentially serve as novel biomarkers for the diagnostic and prognostic of HCC.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81772399
文摘BACKGROUND Intervertebral disc(IVD) degeneration is a condition characterized by a reduction in the water and extracellular matrix content of the nucleus pulposus(NP) and is considered as one of the dominating contributing factors to low back pain. Recent evidence suggests that stromal cell-derived factor 1α(SDF-1α) and its receptor CX-C chemokine receptor type 4(CXCR4) direct the migration of stem cells associated with injury repair in different musculoskeletal tissues.AIM To investigate the effects of SDF-1α on recruitment and chondrogenic differentiation of nucleus pulposus-derived stem cells(NPSCs).METHODS We performed real-time RT-PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to examine the expression of SDF-1α in nucleus pulposus cells after treatment with pro-inflammatory cytokines in vitro. An animal model of IVD degeneration was established using annular fibrosus puncture in rat coccygeal discs. Tissue samples were collected from normal control and degeneration groups.Differences in the expression of SDF-1α between the normal and degenerative IVDs were analyzed by immunohistochemistry. The migration capacity of NPSCs induced by SDF-1α was evaluated using wound healing and transwell migration assays. To determine the effect of SDF-1α on chondrogenic differentiation of NPSCs, we conducted cell micromass culture and examined the expression levels of Sox-9, aggrecan, and collagen II. Moreover, the roles of SDF-1/CXCR4 axis in the migration and chondrogenesis differentiation of NPSCs were analyzed by immunofluorescence, immunoblotting, and real-time RT-PCR.RESULTS SDF-1α was significantly upregulated in the native IVD cells cultured in vitro with pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α, mimicking the degenerative settings. Immunohistochemical staining showed that the level of SDF-1α was also significantly higher in the degenerative group than in the normal group. SDF-1α enhanced the migration capacity of NPSCs in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, SDF-1α induced chondrogenic differentiation of NPSCs, as evidenced by the increased expression of chondrogenic markers using histological and immunoblotting analyses. Realtime RT-PCR, immunoblotting, and immunofluorescence showed that SDF-1αnot only increased CXCR4 expression but also stimulated translocation of CXCR4 from the cytoplasm to membrane, accompanied by cytoskeletal rearrangement.Furthermore, blocking CXCR4 with AMD3100 effectively suppressed the SDF-1α-induced migration and differentiation capacities of NPSCs.CONCLUSION These findings demonstrate that SDF-1α has the potential to enhance recruitment and chondrogenic differentiation of NPSCs via SDF-1/CXCR4 chemotaxis signals that contribute to IVD regeneration.
基金Supported by the National Key R and D Program of China,No.2016YFC0106604the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81502591
文摘AIM To understand the cellular and molecular changes inperipheral blood that can lead to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) and provide new methods for its diagnosis and treatment.METHODS Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated from the peripheral blood of HCC patients and normal controls and then analyzed by flow cytometry. The percentage of transforming growth factor-β(TGF-β)+ regulatory cells(Tregs) in the peripheral blood was measured, and the expression of TGF-β was also determined. Then, the relationship between the changes and the 5-year survival of patients was analyzed. In addition, recombinant human TGF-β(rh TGF-β) and recombinant human interleukin-6 were added to stimulate the cultured cells, and their effects on HCC were evaluated.RESULTS The expression of TGF-β and the percentage of TGF-β+ Tregs in the peripheral blood of HCC patients increased significantly compared with normal controls. Compared with the low TGF-β expression group, the high TGF-β expression group had a significantly lower 5-year survival rate, and the same result was found in the two TGF-β+ Treg groups, suggesting that TGF-β and TGF-β+ Tregs were negatively correlated with the overall survival of the patients. In addition, rh TGF-β promoted the growth of tumor cells and induced high expression levels of IL-6, which further promoted tumor proliferation.CONCLUSION The results showed that TGF-β may promote tumor growth and proliferation by inducing the production of IL-6, and TGF-β and TGF-β+ Tregs may serve as new markers for predicting a poor prognosis in HCC.
文摘Objective:To investigate the efficacy of quick repositioning maneuver for horizontal semicircular canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (H-BPPV). Methods:Clinical data of 67 patients with H-BPPV who underwent quick repositioning maneuver in our hospital from July 2009 to November 2014 were retrospectively analyzed. The maneuver involved rotating the patient in the axial plane for 180? from the involved side towards contralateral side as quickly as possible. Results:Complete symptom resolution was achieved in 61 patients (91.0%) at one week and in 64 patients (95.5%) at 3 months post-treatment. During the repositioning maneuver process, there were no obvious untoward responses except transient nausea with or without vomiting in a few patients. Conclusion:The results indicate that the quick repositioning maneuver is an easy and effective alternative treatment in the management of H-BPPV. Copyright ? 2015 The Authors. Production & hosting by Elsevier (Singapore) Pte Ltd On behalf of PLA General Hospital Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).
文摘AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of corneal collagen crosslinking (01) to prevent the progression of post-laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) corneal ectasia. METHODS: In a prospective, nonrandomized, single-centre study, CXL was performed in 20 eyes of 11 patients who had LASIK for myopic astigmatism and subsequently developed keratectasia. The procedure included instillation of 0.1% riboflavin-20% dextrane solution 30 minutes before UVA irradiation and every 5 minutes for an additional 30 minutes during irradiation. The eyes were evaluated preoperatively and at 1-, 3-, 6-, and 12-month intervals. The complete ophthalmologic examination comprised uncorrected visual acuity, best spectacle-corrected visual acuity, endothelial cell count, ultrasound pachymetry, corneal topography, and in vivo confocal microscopy. RESULTS: CXL appeared to stabilise or partially reverse the progression of post-LASIK corneal ectasia without apparent complication in our cohort. UCVA and BCVA improvements were statistically significant (P<0.05)beyond 12 months after surgery (improvement of 0.07 and 0.13 logMAR at 1 year, respectively). Mean baseline flattest meridian keratometry and mean steepest meridian keratometry reduction (improvement of 2.00 and 1.50 diopters (D), respectively) were statistically significant (P < 0.05) at 12 months postoperatively. At 1 year after 01, mean endothelial cell count did not deteriorate. Mean thinnest cornea pachymetry increased significantly. CONCLUSION: The results of the study showed a long-term stability of post-LASIK corneal ectasia after crosslinking without relevant side effects. It seems to be a safe and promising procedure to stop the progression of post-LASIK keratectasia, thereby avoiding or delaying keratoplasty.
基金supported by a grant from Science and Technology Research Projects of Shanxi Province,No.20120321028-02a grant from the Scientific and Technical Foundation of Shanxi Provincial Health Department,No.201201067+1 种基金a grant from University Research and Development Projects of Shanxi Province,No.20131101grant from the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81371628
文摘In vitro experiments have demonstrated that neuronal-like cells derived from bone marrow mesen- chymal stem cells can survive, migrate, integrate and help to restore the function and behaviors of spinal cord injury models, and that they may serve as a suitable approach to treating spinal cord injury. However, it is very difficult to track transplanted cells in vivo. In this study, we injected su- perparamagnetic iron oxide-labeled neuronal-like cells into the subarachnoid space in a rabbit model of spinal cord injury. At 7 days after cell transplantation, a small number of dot-shaped low signal intensity shadows were observed in the spinal cord injury region, and at 14 days, the number of these shadows increased on T2-weighted imaging. Perl＇s Prussian blue staining detected dot-shaped low signal intensity shadows in the spinal cord injury region, indicative of superpara- magnetic iron oxide nanoparticle-labeled cells. These findings suggest that transplanted neu- ronal-like cells derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells can migrate to the spinal cord injury region and can be tracked by magnetic resonance in vivo. Magnetic resonance imaging represents an efficient noninvasive technique for visually tracking transplanted cells in vivo.
文摘Purpose: To determine the penetrability of riboflavin into the corneal stroma by iontophoresis and to compare the permeability effects of different solvents.Methods: Twenty rabbits were randomly divided into four groups: a group that received 0.1% riboflavin-balanced salt solution(BSS) by iontophoresis, a group that received 0.1%riboflavin-saline solution by iontophoresis, a group that received 0.1% riboflavin-distilled water solution by iontophoresis, and a control group that received classical riboflavin instillation after corneal de-epithelialization. The degree of yellowing of the de-epithelialized corneal stromal button from each rabbit was compared.Results: The yellow color scores for the corneal stromal buttons in the three iontophoresis groups were compared with those of control group. Iontophoretic delivery of a 0.1% riboflavin-distilled water solution yielded similar yellow changes in the corneal stromal button when compared with classical riboflavin instillation after de-epithelialization. However, the other two solvents did not sufficiently enhance the permeability of riboflavin.Conclusion: Riboflavin can effectively penetrate into the corneal stroma to saturation levels by iontophoresis. Using distilled water as the solvent can promote penetrability.
