Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) is a respiratory sleep disorder characterized by repeated episodes of complete or partial obstruction of the upper airway. OSAS has a frequency of 4 percent and is classified ac...Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) is a respiratory sleep disorder characterized by repeated episodes of complete or partial obstruction of the upper airway. OSAS has a frequency of 4 percent and is classified according to the number of obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea episodes. The OSAS diagnostic path starts with the evaluation of the patient’s clinical framework and follows an instrumental procedure, depending on the clinical severity of the patient. Dental practitioners have the ability to intercept early on the signs and symptoms of OSAS. At the same time, they can assess whether the patient has the indications for treatment with specific oral devices (Oral Appliances, OA). The purpose of this paper is to provide guidance for dental management of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in adult individuals.展开更多
Paraneoplastic syndromes (PS) represent a large spectrum of symptoms, associated with malignant diseases. PS can be diagnosed in asymptomatic patients with occult carcinoma, clinically active cancer, and during clinic...Paraneoplastic syndromes (PS) represent a large spectrum of symptoms, associated with malignant diseases. PS can be diagnosed in asymptomatic patients with occult carcinoma, clinically active cancer, and during clinical remission, suggesting a recurrence of the neoplasm. The underlying mechanisms of PS are not completely understood but several authors have suggested that the increased production of biologically active immune factors and cytokines from the neoplastic cells may underlie the etiology of PS. Although rare, the renal involvement of patients with prostatic carcinoma has been reported. The most common paraneoplastic-associated glomerulopathy in prostatic cancer is the membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis with nephrotic syndrome (NS). In this review, we aimed to discuss the incidence of nephrotic syndrome secondary to prostatic carcinoma, its challenging diagnosis, clinical manifestation, and treatment.展开更多
Apelin, recently identified as an endogenous ligand of the orphan G protein-coupled receptor APJ, has multiple pathophysiological properties. In the present study, we investigated whether pyroglutamated apelin-13 ([Py...Apelin, recently identified as an endogenous ligand of the orphan G protein-coupled receptor APJ, has multiple pathophysiological properties. In the present study, we investigated whether pyroglutamated apelin-13 ([Pyr1]-apelin-13), the most highly active isoform among the mature apelin peptide family, modulates the effect of bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on cytokine induction in a murine macrophage-like cell line, J774.1 cells. J774.1 cells expressed the APJ protein in a stationary state, and the expression of APJ was not affected by LPS stimulation. No significant effect of [Pyr1]-apelin-13 treatment alone was observed on the proliferation or cytokine production of J774.1 cells in the stationary state. However, prior to LPS stimulation, pretreatment with [Pyr1]apelin-13 for 16 h significantly diminished mRNA expression and protein secretion of inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6, which was confirmed by RT-PCR and ELISA, respectively. Western blot analysis revealed that the phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and c-Jun N-terminal kinase, but not extracellular signal-regulated kinase, which was induced by LPS, significantly decreased in [Pyr1]-apelin-13-pretreated J774.1 cells compared with untreated cells. These observations suggest that [Pyr1]-apelin-13 functions as a negative regulator of LPS-mediated pro-inflammatory responses in macrophages.展开更多
In order to understand pathogenic mechanism of allergic dermatitis, it is important to find morphological changes of the internal structure of the skin by non-invasive imaging. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is po...In order to understand pathogenic mechanism of allergic dermatitis, it is important to find morphological changes of the internal structure of the skin by non-invasive imaging. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is powerful tool for in vivo tomographic imaging of the internal microstructure in biological tissue. In this study, we prepared the animal model of genuine pig with allergic dermatitis developed by chemical administration to examining their skin inflammation by microscopic observations with OCT images captured continuously, aiming at tracking the morphological changes in the skin structure induced by the chronological inflammation. As a result, epidermis thickening became evident as the days passed since Day 7, and the capillary vessel expansion was confirmed since Day 14;the process of inflammation development was successfully observed.展开更多
Skin photoaging is a complex, multifactorial process resulting in functional and structural changes of the skin, and different phenotypes from chronological skin aging are well-recognized. Ultraviolet (UV)-irradiated ...Skin photoaging is a complex, multifactorial process resulting in functional and structural changes of the skin, and different phenotypes from chronological skin aging are well-recognized. Ultraviolet (UV)-irradiated hairless mice have been used as a skin photoaging animal model. However, differences in morphology and gene expression patterns between UV-induced and chronological skin changes in this mouse model have not been fully elucidated. Here we investigated differences in histopathology and cytokine expression between UV-irradiated and non-irradiated aged hairless mice to clarify the factor(s) that differentiate photoaging from chronological skin aging phenotypes. Eight-week-old HR-1 hairless mice were divided into UV-irradiated (UV-irradiated mice) and non-irradiated (control mice) groups. Irradiation was performed three times per week for 10 weeks. In addition, 30-week-old HR-1 hairless mice were reared until 70 weeks of age without UV irradiation (aged mice). Histopathologies revealed that the flattening of dermal-epidermal junctions and epidermal thickening were observed only in UV-irradiated mice. Decreases in fine elastic fibers just beneath the epidermis, the thickening of elastic fibers in the reticular dermis, and the accumulation of glycosaminoglycans were more prominent in UV-irradiated mice as compared to non-irradiated aged mice. Quantitative PCR analyses revealed that UV-irradiated mice showed an increase in the expression of IFN-γ. In contrast, aged mice exhibited proportional up-regulation of both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines. The IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio, an indicator for the balance of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, was significantly higher in UV-irradiated mice as compared to control and non-irradiated aged mice. An elevated IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio was also observed in aged senescence-accelerated mouse-prone 1 (SAMP1) mice, a spontaneous skin photoaging model we recently reported. Thus, an imbalance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines might be a key factor to differentiate photoaged skin from chronologically-aged skin.展开更多
The study investigated the intervention of caffeine on the effect of Nigerian Bonnylight crude oil (NBLCO) on sperm motility and morphology of diabetic Wistar rats. Eighty adult male rats (180 - 200 g body weight) wer...The study investigated the intervention of caffeine on the effect of Nigerian Bonnylight crude oil (NBLCO) on sperm motility and morphology of diabetic Wistar rats. Eighty adult male rats (180 - 200 g body weight) were randomly divided into eight groups of 10 animals each. The control group received 3 mL/Kg body weight of distilled water, ND Caf. group received 20 mL/kg body weight of caffeine, NDCO group received 3 mL/Kg body weight of NBLCO, ND Caf. + CO group received 20 and 3 mL/Kg body weight of caffeine and NBLCO respectively, diabetic group received 3 mL/Kg body weight of distilled water, D Caf. group received 20 mL/Kg body weight of caffeine, D CO received 3 mL/Kg body weight of NBLCO and D Caf. + CO group received 20 and 3 mL/Kg body weight of caffeine and NBLCO respectively, by oral gavaging for 28 days. The results showed that independent administration of caffeine and NBLCO to both non-diabetic and diabetic rats significantly (p < 0.05) altered sperm concentration, morphology and motility. Administration of NBLCO aggravated the worsening condition by significantly (p < 0.05) reducing sperm concentration, motility and increasing abnormal sperms in diabetic rats. Although caffeine significantly (p < 0.05) reduced motility in non-diabetic rats, it did cause any significant alteration in diabetic rats. Diabetes mellitus and NBLCO significantly (p < 0.05) reduced all indices that promote sperm motility while significantly (p < 0.05) increasing indices that do not promote motility. It can be concluded that diabetes mellitus and NBLCO administration have shown the tendency to promote male infertility by reducing sperm motility and adversely altering the morphology of sperm in male Wistar rats, which was ameliorated by caffeine intervention.展开更多
Neutrophils, crucial players in the effector phase of the immune response, are recognized as important mediators of both innate and adaptive immune responses. Through the production of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytok...Neutrophils, crucial players in the effector phase of the immune response, are recognized as important mediators of both innate and adaptive immune responses. Through the production of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, they modulate the function of T and other lymphoid cells. Countless reports have highlighted the importance of these cells as efficient antimicrobial agents and annotated their involvement in the pathology of infectious and noninfectious diseases. The development of modern, sophisticated technologies has allowed the study of the functions of these cells in clinical settings. These advanced technologies include fluorescence-activated cell sorters, confocal microscopy, automated cell image analyzers, and live cell analysis instruments. Unfortunately, the cost of these modern instruments, maintenance, reagents, and the need for qualified technicians prohibit their use in low-income laboratories and universities in developing countries. With this in mind, we propose a series of basic tests that can be used in low-input clinical laboratories and universities to evaluate the function of neutrophils in health and disease. Our methodology allows us to assess in a practical and low-cost manner the functions of neutrophils in the phagocytic process, including opsonization, ingestion, ROI production (NBT reduction), myeloperoxidase content, phagosome-lysosome fusion, microbicidal activity, and NET production. Thus, under a disadvantageous ambiance, this may guide physicians in deciding whether a patient’s illness involves phagocytic defects without imposing a heavy financial burden.Graphical Abstract[-rId13-]展开更多
Objectives: Smoking increases oxidative modification of LDL, associated with lower HDL plasma levels, systemic inflammatory response and endothelial dysfunction. We tested the hypothesis that the risk status for coron...Objectives: Smoking increases oxidative modification of LDL, associated with lower HDL plasma levels, systemic inflammatory response and endothelial dysfunction. We tested the hypothesis that the risk status for coronary atherosclerosis disease (CAD) of cigarettes smokers might be identified by means of serum oxidative levels and vascular inflammation determination. Design and Methods: Oxidative stress levels, cytokines, and the metabolic status were investigated on 499 subjects admitted to our institute. The association between biomarkers and smoking habits in the presence/absence of disease and with the number of vessel affected, was studied. Results: Oxidative stress and inflammatory levels (p < 0.001) were strongly induced by smoking habits. Serum values of the subjects categorised as CAD, non CAD and healthy subjects differed significantly (p < 0.001) only for the degree of oxidative stress. Glycaemia was able to affect C-reactive protein serum levels with a positive association (p < 0.05). The analysis of the study population indicated that serum oxidative stress levels significantly increased with increasing number of vessels affected (p < 0.01). When statistical analysis was performed separately in both smoking groups, smokers did not show any particular difference for both oxidative stress and inflammation markers between the two groups of cardiovascular patients (CAD and non CAD) and the control group, while for non smokers, the differences were evident. Conclusion: These findings indicate that the considered biomarkers, especially oxidative stress, can be useful to predict the biological damage caused by cigarette smoking, as well as to identify subjects characterised by a higher risk of cardiovascular event, but cannot evaluate the presence of disease in subjects with smoking habit.展开更多
The majority of the world’s population suffers from gingivitis/periodontitis. This inflammatory process is caused by several bacterial species inside the dental plaque. In vivo and in vitro experiments were set up. T...The majority of the world’s population suffers from gingivitis/periodontitis. This inflammatory process is caused by several bacterial species inside the dental plaque. In vivo and in vitro experiments were set up. The patients of the in vivo group were divided into a noni and a control group. Both groups contained patients that suffered from gingivitis/periodontitis who were introduced to practice standardized, good oral hygiene. The patients in the noni group additionally used noni juice for mouth wash two times a day. The Papillae-Bleeding-Index (PBI) was evaluated comparing the status of inflammation in both groups. Bacterial probes were isolated from the patient’s gingival pouches for species identification and to carry out in vitro experiments for possible antimicrobial effects of noni juice. The Papillae-Bleeding-Index (PBI) in the noni group has “highly significantly” improved from an average of 2.25 at the beginning of the observation period (t0) to 1.01 after four weeks of noni treatment (t1), compared to a change from 2.11 at t0 to 1.95 at t1 inthe control group. A comparison of the differences of the PBI-values (t0-t1) between the noni and the control group was highly significant using a t-test on a level of p = 0.01. Only small inhibition zones were observed in the agar diffusion test on agar plates coated with aerobic, anaerobic and Candida cultures isolated from the patients gingival pouches after treatment with original or neutralized noni juice in different concentrations. Weak bacteriostatic effects occurred in the agar dilution experiments with noni juice in higher concentrations (native and neutralized noni juice). The present investigation has shown that the combination of good oral hygiene and the administration of noni juice was a promising treatment for gingivitis and periodontitis. The additional treatment with noni juice significantly mitigated the gingival inflammation.展开更多
Bone marrow edema syndrome (BMES), is a rare and self-limiting condition characterized by localized bone pain and transient marrow edema visible on MRI. BMES has been increasingly associated with specific cutaneous ma...Bone marrow edema syndrome (BMES), is a rare and self-limiting condition characterized by localized bone pain and transient marrow edema visible on MRI. BMES has been increasingly associated with specific cutaneous manifestations that may hold diagnostic and prognostic significance. Patients with BMES have reported localized erythema, dermal thickening, and induration overlying the affected joints, which are hypothesized to reflect microvascular compromise and inflammatory processes within the bone and adjacent soft tissues. Dermatologic signs are likely linked to regional hyperemia, venous stasis, and cytokine-mediated inflammation, paralleling the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying intraosseous edema. Elevated intraosseous pressure in BMES may disrupt local perfusion, resulting in ischemia-reperfusion injury and subsequent vascular leakage, which manifests in visible cutaneous changes. Pro-inflammatory mediators, such as interleukin-1β and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), central to BMES pathogenesis, may exacerbate endothelial activation, and dermal involvement. Histopathologic studies of affected skin have revealed perivascular lymphocytic infiltration and increased dermal vascularity, further supporting the theory of a shared ischemic and inflammatory pathway between bone and skin. Although MRI remains the gold standard for BMES diagnosis, recognition of these cutaneous manifestations could expedite orthopedic referral and intervention, especially in cases where imaging is delayed or symptoms are ambiguous. Current treatment options, including bisphosphonates, prostacyclin analogs, and offloading of weight bearing, may benefit from integration with dermatologic strategies to alleviate localized cutaneous symptoms and improve patient comfort. Evaluating the molecular and vascular links between BMES and its cutaneous manifestations provides an opportunity to refine diagnostic protocols and therapeutic approaches, offering a comprehensive understanding of the systemic interplay between dermal and skeletal pathophysiology, and optimizing clinical outcomes for patients affected by BMES.展开更多
Background and Objective: Interleukin-1 (IL-1) binds to 2 distinct and separate receptors, types I and II (IL-1RI and IL-1RII, respectively). The binding of IL-1 to IL-1RI induces cellular signaling and biological eff...Background and Objective: Interleukin-1 (IL-1) binds to 2 distinct and separate receptors, types I and II (IL-1RI and IL-1RII, respectively). The binding of IL-1 to IL-1RI induces cellular signaling and biological effects, whereas binding to IL-1RII does not induce cellular signaling and indirectly inhibits IL-1 biological activities such as that of the decoy receptor. Recently, Suzukiet al.reported that soluble IL-1RII (sIL-1RII) was detected in gingival crevicular fluid from a periodontitis patient. However, it remains unclear which cells produce sIL-1RII detected in periodontal tissues. We examined the localization of IL-1RII producing cells in gingival tissues as well as related production control mechanisms. Material and Methods: IL-1RII mRNA expression in gingival epithelial cells (GE1) was performed by real-time PCR analysis, while the amount of sIL-1RII production in supernatant from GE1 cells was examined by dot-blot analysis. Involvement of the phosphorylation of STAT6 in the signaling pathway was determined by western blot analysis. Statistical analysis was performed with Student’st-test. Results: Culturing with IL-4 and IL-13 significantly increased IL-1RII mRNA to levels 10.5-and 8.89-fold, respectively, above that of the control (p< 0.01), while addition of interferon-γ (IFN-γ) significantly suppressed IL-1RII mRNA by 0.22-fold as compared to the control (p< 0.05). Soluble IL-1RII in the supernatant of cultured GE1 cells was increased by IL-4 and IL-13, and decreased by IFN-γ, while western blotting determines the suppression of IL-1RII production by IFN-γ. Without the addition of IL-4 or IL-13 with or without IFN-γ, P-Tyr-STAT6 was not detected. Conclusion: IL-1RII mRNA expression and sIL-1RII production were increased by IL-4 and IL-13, and decreased by IFN-γ. Finally, IL-4 signaling was regulated by IFN-γ through phosphorylation of STAT6 and IL-13 signaling blockage by IFN-γ downstream of STAT6 translocation.展开更多
We have previously demonstrated that acute treatment with low dose methamphetamine is neuroprotectivein a rat model of severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). Using gene expression analysis, we further showed that metham...We have previously demonstrated that acute treatment with low dose methamphetamine is neuroprotectivein a rat model of severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). Using gene expression analysis, we further showed that methamphetamine treatment significantly reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory genes after severe TBI. Therefore, to further investigate the potential effects of methamphetamine treatment on the neuroinflammatory response, we examined immunofluorescent staining of Iba1 and CD68, two marker of neuroinflammation, in the rat lateral fluid percussion injury model of severe TBI. In this study, we observed temporal and spatial alterations in the pattern of Iba1 and CD68 labeling within two weeks after severe TBI. In general, methamphetamine treatment did not dramatically alter the pattern of Iba1 and CD68 staining. However, we did observe a unique and significant drug-induced increase of Iba1 labeling within the granule cell layer of the dentate gyrusat 48 hours post injury. We also observed rod-shaped Iba1+?cells within the core lesion in the cortex. These cells showed variable staining with CD68 and aligned most closely with MAP2+?neuronal processes. Thus, acute treatment with low-dose methamphetamine after severe TBI caused a transient bilateral increase of Iba1+?cells within the granule layer of the dentate gyrus but did not alter the overall temporal and regional pattern of Iba1 and CD68 staining within the cortex, periventricular white matter, fimbria, or thalamus.展开更多
Objective: To study a comprehensive proteomic analysis of celecoxib in oseteoarthritis (OA) chondrocytes. Methods: OA chondrocytes were stimulated with celecoxib, IL-1β and IL-1β together with celecoxib. Proteins we...Objective: To study a comprehensive proteomic analysis of celecoxib in oseteoarthritis (OA) chondrocytes. Methods: OA chondrocytes were stimulated with celecoxib, IL-1β and IL-1β together with celecoxib. Proteins were extracted from the cells and subjected to 2-dimensional differential image gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE). Proteins of interest were identified by mass spectrometry. Results: Eighty-six protein spots showed significantly different intensities with each reagent or reagent combination. AAA+ protein, HSP47/Serpin, cAMP-dependent protein kinase type II-beta regulatory subunit, alpha-actin-4 and tubulin decreased with the addition of celecoxib, while apolipoprotein A-V, glutamate carboxipeptide 2, mitochondrial stress-70 protein, sorting nexin-9 and GRP78 increased with the addition of celecoxib. GRP78 is a stress protein and may be chondroprotective. Celecoxib modulated IL-1β stimulated chondrocytes, and CD200R and moesin were identified as such resulting proteins. Conclusion: Protein profiles of OA chondrocytes changed after administration of celecoxib. Further investigation is needed to elucidate the function of each protein in OA chondrocytes.展开更多
Chronic systemic inflammation is associated with many conditions of aging such as atherosclerosis. Lowering high n-6:n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) ratios are commonly found in Western diets aids in preventing ...Chronic systemic inflammation is associated with many conditions of aging such as atherosclerosis. Lowering high n-6:n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) ratios are commonly found in Western diets aids in preventing inflammatory-related diseases. However, it is not clear whether dietary interventions designed to alter n-6:n-3 PUFA ratios can reduce systemic inflammation in younger adults. Studies that evaluate PUFA intake often use subjective data from food frequency questionnaires or food records rather than more precise physiological measures of PUFAs (e.g. plasma levels). Therefore, the purpose of this pilot study that analyzed data from the experimental parent study of younger adults (n = 18), was to determine whether plasma PUFA levels were associated with levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), an inflammatory marker, and if supplementation with n-3 PUFAs was correlated with rising n-3 PUFA concentrations in plasma and decreasing n-6:n-3 ratios. In the parent study, participants received daily either placebo or n-3 PUFA softgels (1.6 g eicosapentaenoic acid [EPA] and 1.2 g docosahexaenoic acid [DHA]). EPA and DHA are the biologically active components in fish oil. Measures included blood for PUFA quantification at baseline and four weeks later, when blister wounds were created and wound fluid and saliva were collected. The saliva samples were used to measure CRP in the present study. We report that CRP was significantly and negatively correlated with total n-3 PUFAs (tau-β = ?0.373, p = 0.031) and positively correlated with n-6:n-3 ratios (tau-β = 0.320, p = 0.063). Those consuming EPA + DHA supplements had significantly higher concentrations of total n-3 PUFAs and significantly lower n-6:n-3 ratios (p The present study has shown that beneficial levels of n-3 PUFAs and n-6:n3 ratios were achieved with 4-weeks of EPA + DHA supplementation and were associated with reduced CRP in young adults. EPA + DHA supplementation for some young adults may help prevent inflammatory conditions later in life.展开更多
NEM®?brand eggshell membrane is a novel dietary supplement that has been clinically shown to alleviate arthritis joint pain and stiffness;however the mechanism of action is not well understood. Preliminary evi...NEM®?brand eggshell membrane is a novel dietary supplement that has been clinically shown to alleviate arthritis joint pain and stiffness;however the mechanism of action is not well understood. Preliminary evidence from an?in vitro?study of?NEM®?indicated that the mechanism of action may be based on the reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines.?In vivo?studies were therefore initiated to evaluate the effects of?NEM®?on pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines following oral administration in rats.?NEM®?was administered daily at doses of 6.13 mg/kg bw/day (Study 1), 10.0 mg/kg bw/day (Study 2), or at doses of 0 (control), 26.0 or 52.0 mg/kg bw/day (Study 3) by oral gavage for 7 consecutive days. Inflammation was induced in the Study 3 rats by intraperitoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide. Changes in plasma cytokine levels from baseline following 7 days of oral supplementation with?NEM®?at 6.13 mg/kg bw/ day (Study 1) were statistically significant at Day 8 for IL-2, TIMP-1 and VEGF, at Day 21 for IL-10, and at Day 35 for MCP-1, MCP-3 and TIMP-1, and at 10.0 mg/kg bw/day (Study 2) were statistically significant at Day 8 for VEGF, at Day 21 for MIP-1β, MIP-2 and VEGF, and at Day 35 for MCP-3, MIP-1β, MIP-2 and VEGF. Changes in serum cytokine levels versus control at 26.0 mg/kg bw/day (Study 3) were statistically significant at all time-points for IL-1β?and at 1.5 hours for IL-10, and at 52.0 mg/kg bw/day (Study 3) were statistically significant at 1.5 hours for IFN-γ, IL-1β?and IL-10, and at 3 hours for IL-1β, and at 24 hours for IL-10. Taken together, these studies demonstrate that oral supplementation with?NEM®?can influence both early-phase pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-1β?and TNF-α?(Study 3), as well as later-phase cytokines like MCP-1, MIP-1α?&?β, RANTES and VEGF (Study 1 & 2). These studies provide a possible basis for the mechanism of action of?NEM®?in vivo.展开更多
Objective: To explore the effects of Anwei decoction (AD) on the protein expression of TFF in rats with chronic atrophic gastritis(CAG). Methods: Forty-eight healthy rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: normal co...Objective: To explore the effects of Anwei decoction (AD) on the protein expression of TFF in rats with chronic atrophic gastritis(CAG). Methods: Forty-eight healthy rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: normal control group, pathologic model group, Anwei Decoction group, and Weifuchun group. CAG was induced in rats with N-methy-N-nitro-N-nitrogua-nidine (MNNG). The protein expression of TFF in rats’ gastric mucosa was determined by immunohistochemistry. Results: Compared with that in the normal control group, the protein expression of TFF1 was significantly enhanced in the pathologic model, Anwei Decoction and Weifuchun groups (both P TFF1 was significantly higher in the Anwei Decoction group than in the Weifuchun group (P < 0.01). Compared with the normal control group, the protein expression of TFF2 was significantly enhanced in the pathologic model, Anwei Decoction and Weifuchun groups (both P < 0.01). The protein expression level of TFF2 was significantly higher in the Anwei Decoction group than in the Weifuchun group (P < 0.01). In comparison with the pathologic model group, the protein expression of TFF3 was remarkably reduced in Anwei Decoction and Weifuchun groups (both P < 0.01). but there was no difference between the group of Anwei decoction and the group of Weifuchun (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Anwei decoction may be effective in the treatment of CAG by enhancing the protein expression of TFF1, TFF2 while reducing that of TFF3 in gastric mucosas.展开更多
Parotid gland adenocarcinoma is commonly a tumor of low malignancy and low incidence worldwide. The reported case shows the rapid progression of this tumor in an elderly patient and infrequent effects, such as a prese...Parotid gland adenocarcinoma is commonly a tumor of low malignancy and low incidence worldwide. The reported case shows the rapid progression of this tumor in an elderly patient and infrequent effects, such as a presentation of facial edema not commonly described in the medical literature. Patient was admitted to hospital in November 2019 with secretion and partial hearing loss in the right ear and infiltrative and stone lesion with initial skin ulceration in the right cervical region. After 42 days, he returned and was admitted to the intensive care unit with significant swelling of the face, hardened and hyperemic neck, difficulty in speech and inability to open the eye. He presented changes in the mobility of the speech and hearing organs, reduced laryngeal mobility, vocal changes, speech with altered articulation and severe oropharyngeal dysphagia with risk of bronchoaspiration. The patient was diagnosed in September 2019 with a parotid tumor (salivary gland adenocarcinoma T4). The medical team requested computed tomography, computed tomography angiography of the chest and cervical vessels and computed tomography of the neck, in addition to evaluation by the head and neck surgery service and general surgery. After analyzing the results, the medical team suggested a hypothesis of tumor invasion that could result in obstruction of local lymphatic drainage, something unusual in the evolution of this type of tumor. In addition, it was not possible to adhere to radiotherapy treatment due to the extent of the lesion and there was also no confirmation of metastases. The reported case shows us that parotid gland adenocarcinoma, when diagnosed in an advanced stage, can limit the approach to treatment. It was chosen in agreement with the family to proceed with palliative care without invasive measures. Palliative care may be the best option for cases like this, bringing some comfort to the patient and his family.展开更多
Background: The Mediterranean Diet (MD) has been linked to a reduced risk of developing degenerative diseases, including atherosclerosis, heart stroke, diabetes, arthritis and cancer. However, only a few scientific in...Background: The Mediterranean Diet (MD) has been linked to a reduced risk of developing degenerative diseases, including atherosclerosis, heart stroke, diabetes, arthritis and cancer. However, only a few scientific investigations have attempted to validate this impression. The ingredients of the MD include significant amounts of omega (ω3, ω6, and ω9) unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs). A few studies of these UFAs in the prevention or treatment of arthritis have yielded controversial results, but a general belief regarding their beneficial effects has prevailed. Objective: To investigate the effects of three relevant UFAs, namely Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA), Arachidonic Acid (AA), and Oleic Acid (OA) (ω3, ω6, and ω9, respectively), in the development of arthritis using a murine model of Collagen-Induced Arthritis (CIA). Methods: DBA-1 mice were immunized with chicken collagen type II (CII) and were subsequently treated with ω-UFAs for 53 days. Dexamethasone (DEXA) was used as a positive anti-inflammatory agent. The effect of the treatments was evaluated through several parameters: inflammation indices, antibody levels, cell prolifera- tion, and histopathological findings. Results and Conclusion: The anti-inflammatory effect of the tested substances was inversely correlated with the histopathological findings: a greater anti- inflammatory effect was associated with less articular damage. Oleic acid (ω9) was the most efficient anti-inflammatory UFA, followed by DHA and then AA. DEXA completely inhibited the development of arthritis, whereas the untreated CII-immunized mice developed the most severe articular damage. DBA-1 mice with CII-induced arthritis constitute an adequate model for the study of arthritis and its treatment.展开更多
Available reports suggest that, Leishmania donovani antigen KMP-11 may be significant in the modulation of immune responses in visceral leishmaniasis (VL). This study evaluated vaccine prospect of presentation of KMP-...Available reports suggest that, Leishmania donovani antigen KMP-11 may be significant in the modulation of immune responses in visceral leishmaniasis (VL). This study evaluated vaccine prospect of presentation of KMP-11 antigen through murine dendritic cells against VL in infected BALB/c mice. We report here that immunization with KMP-11 delivered through bone marrow derived dendritic cells can lead to killing of L. donovani in infected BALB/c mice. Furthermore, the strategy to use KMP-11 as vaccine delivered through DCs can stimulate the production of IFN-g, IL-12, IL-2R and TNF-α with concomitant down-regulation of IL-10 and IL-4. Furthermore, anti-leishmanial defence function (ROS) of splenocytes was observed increased in the presence of DC-delivered KMP-11 vaccination accompanied with an increased p38-MAPK signalling in vaccinated splenocytes. We summarized from our data that KMP-11 delivered through DCs has potential for eliciting protective immunity through pro-inflammatory cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-12, IL-2, TNF-α) following an up-regulation in signalling event of p38-MAPK. Therefore the study suggests a new control strategy against VL in future.展开更多
Purpose: Interstitial Lung Diseases (ILD) are characterized by inflammation and fibrosis. It described the role of hyaluronic acid (HA) as an immune-regulator. It is not known if HA contributes to the recruitment of i...Purpose: Interstitial Lung Diseases (ILD) are characterized by inflammation and fibrosis. It described the role of hyaluronic acid (HA) as an immune-regulator. It is not known if HA contributes to the recruitment of inflammatory cells associated with ILD. If this hypothesis was correct, then concentrations of HA in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) should correlate with the severity of ILD. Methods: We collected BAL from 22 ILD patients and 15 control subjects. We determined HA and cytokine levels by ELISA. In vitro chemotaxis assays were performed by using a transwell system. Results: We found that ILD patients showed a significant increase in HA, IL-6 levels and the amount of cells in BAL compared to control subjects. We detected a significant positive correlation between HA and IL-6 levels (r = 0.53 and p In vitro, HA induced migration of macrophages and monocytes through a CD44-dependent process. BAL from patients with ILD stimulated macro-phage migration and this was abrogated by hyaluronidase. Conclusions: Our results support the hypothesis that HA contributes to the recruitment of monocytes towards the alveolar space, leading to exacerbation of lung inflammation in ILD patients.展开更多
文摘Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) is a respiratory sleep disorder characterized by repeated episodes of complete or partial obstruction of the upper airway. OSAS has a frequency of 4 percent and is classified according to the number of obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea episodes. The OSAS diagnostic path starts with the evaluation of the patient’s clinical framework and follows an instrumental procedure, depending on the clinical severity of the patient. Dental practitioners have the ability to intercept early on the signs and symptoms of OSAS. At the same time, they can assess whether the patient has the indications for treatment with specific oral devices (Oral Appliances, OA). The purpose of this paper is to provide guidance for dental management of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in adult individuals.
文摘Paraneoplastic syndromes (PS) represent a large spectrum of symptoms, associated with malignant diseases. PS can be diagnosed in asymptomatic patients with occult carcinoma, clinically active cancer, and during clinical remission, suggesting a recurrence of the neoplasm. The underlying mechanisms of PS are not completely understood but several authors have suggested that the increased production of biologically active immune factors and cytokines from the neoplastic cells may underlie the etiology of PS. Although rare, the renal involvement of patients with prostatic carcinoma has been reported. The most common paraneoplastic-associated glomerulopathy in prostatic cancer is the membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis with nephrotic syndrome (NS). In this review, we aimed to discuss the incidence of nephrotic syndrome secondary to prostatic carcinoma, its challenging diagnosis, clinical manifestation, and treatment.
文摘Apelin, recently identified as an endogenous ligand of the orphan G protein-coupled receptor APJ, has multiple pathophysiological properties. In the present study, we investigated whether pyroglutamated apelin-13 ([Pyr1]-apelin-13), the most highly active isoform among the mature apelin peptide family, modulates the effect of bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on cytokine induction in a murine macrophage-like cell line, J774.1 cells. J774.1 cells expressed the APJ protein in a stationary state, and the expression of APJ was not affected by LPS stimulation. No significant effect of [Pyr1]-apelin-13 treatment alone was observed on the proliferation or cytokine production of J774.1 cells in the stationary state. However, prior to LPS stimulation, pretreatment with [Pyr1]apelin-13 for 16 h significantly diminished mRNA expression and protein secretion of inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6, which was confirmed by RT-PCR and ELISA, respectively. Western blot analysis revealed that the phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and c-Jun N-terminal kinase, but not extracellular signal-regulated kinase, which was induced by LPS, significantly decreased in [Pyr1]-apelin-13-pretreated J774.1 cells compared with untreated cells. These observations suggest that [Pyr1]-apelin-13 functions as a negative regulator of LPS-mediated pro-inflammatory responses in macrophages.
文摘In order to understand pathogenic mechanism of allergic dermatitis, it is important to find morphological changes of the internal structure of the skin by non-invasive imaging. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is powerful tool for in vivo tomographic imaging of the internal microstructure in biological tissue. In this study, we prepared the animal model of genuine pig with allergic dermatitis developed by chemical administration to examining their skin inflammation by microscopic observations with OCT images captured continuously, aiming at tracking the morphological changes in the skin structure induced by the chronological inflammation. As a result, epidermis thickening became evident as the days passed since Day 7, and the capillary vessel expansion was confirmed since Day 14;the process of inflammation development was successfully observed.
文摘Skin photoaging is a complex, multifactorial process resulting in functional and structural changes of the skin, and different phenotypes from chronological skin aging are well-recognized. Ultraviolet (UV)-irradiated hairless mice have been used as a skin photoaging animal model. However, differences in morphology and gene expression patterns between UV-induced and chronological skin changes in this mouse model have not been fully elucidated. Here we investigated differences in histopathology and cytokine expression between UV-irradiated and non-irradiated aged hairless mice to clarify the factor(s) that differentiate photoaging from chronological skin aging phenotypes. Eight-week-old HR-1 hairless mice were divided into UV-irradiated (UV-irradiated mice) and non-irradiated (control mice) groups. Irradiation was performed three times per week for 10 weeks. In addition, 30-week-old HR-1 hairless mice were reared until 70 weeks of age without UV irradiation (aged mice). Histopathologies revealed that the flattening of dermal-epidermal junctions and epidermal thickening were observed only in UV-irradiated mice. Decreases in fine elastic fibers just beneath the epidermis, the thickening of elastic fibers in the reticular dermis, and the accumulation of glycosaminoglycans were more prominent in UV-irradiated mice as compared to non-irradiated aged mice. Quantitative PCR analyses revealed that UV-irradiated mice showed an increase in the expression of IFN-γ. In contrast, aged mice exhibited proportional up-regulation of both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines. The IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio, an indicator for the balance of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, was significantly higher in UV-irradiated mice as compared to control and non-irradiated aged mice. An elevated IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio was also observed in aged senescence-accelerated mouse-prone 1 (SAMP1) mice, a spontaneous skin photoaging model we recently reported. Thus, an imbalance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines might be a key factor to differentiate photoaged skin from chronologically-aged skin.
文摘The study investigated the intervention of caffeine on the effect of Nigerian Bonnylight crude oil (NBLCO) on sperm motility and morphology of diabetic Wistar rats. Eighty adult male rats (180 - 200 g body weight) were randomly divided into eight groups of 10 animals each. The control group received 3 mL/Kg body weight of distilled water, ND Caf. group received 20 mL/kg body weight of caffeine, NDCO group received 3 mL/Kg body weight of NBLCO, ND Caf. + CO group received 20 and 3 mL/Kg body weight of caffeine and NBLCO respectively, diabetic group received 3 mL/Kg body weight of distilled water, D Caf. group received 20 mL/Kg body weight of caffeine, D CO received 3 mL/Kg body weight of NBLCO and D Caf. + CO group received 20 and 3 mL/Kg body weight of caffeine and NBLCO respectively, by oral gavaging for 28 days. The results showed that independent administration of caffeine and NBLCO to both non-diabetic and diabetic rats significantly (p < 0.05) altered sperm concentration, morphology and motility. Administration of NBLCO aggravated the worsening condition by significantly (p < 0.05) reducing sperm concentration, motility and increasing abnormal sperms in diabetic rats. Although caffeine significantly (p < 0.05) reduced motility in non-diabetic rats, it did cause any significant alteration in diabetic rats. Diabetes mellitus and NBLCO significantly (p < 0.05) reduced all indices that promote sperm motility while significantly (p < 0.05) increasing indices that do not promote motility. It can be concluded that diabetes mellitus and NBLCO administration have shown the tendency to promote male infertility by reducing sperm motility and adversely altering the morphology of sperm in male Wistar rats, which was ameliorated by caffeine intervention.
文摘Neutrophils, crucial players in the effector phase of the immune response, are recognized as important mediators of both innate and adaptive immune responses. Through the production of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, they modulate the function of T and other lymphoid cells. Countless reports have highlighted the importance of these cells as efficient antimicrobial agents and annotated their involvement in the pathology of infectious and noninfectious diseases. The development of modern, sophisticated technologies has allowed the study of the functions of these cells in clinical settings. These advanced technologies include fluorescence-activated cell sorters, confocal microscopy, automated cell image analyzers, and live cell analysis instruments. Unfortunately, the cost of these modern instruments, maintenance, reagents, and the need for qualified technicians prohibit their use in low-income laboratories and universities in developing countries. With this in mind, we propose a series of basic tests that can be used in low-input clinical laboratories and universities to evaluate the function of neutrophils in health and disease. Our methodology allows us to assess in a practical and low-cost manner the functions of neutrophils in the phagocytic process, including opsonization, ingestion, ROI production (NBT reduction), myeloperoxidase content, phagosome-lysosome fusion, microbicidal activity, and NET production. Thus, under a disadvantageous ambiance, this may guide physicians in deciding whether a patient’s illness involves phagocytic defects without imposing a heavy financial burden.Graphical Abstract[-rId13-]
文摘Objectives: Smoking increases oxidative modification of LDL, associated with lower HDL plasma levels, systemic inflammatory response and endothelial dysfunction. We tested the hypothesis that the risk status for coronary atherosclerosis disease (CAD) of cigarettes smokers might be identified by means of serum oxidative levels and vascular inflammation determination. Design and Methods: Oxidative stress levels, cytokines, and the metabolic status were investigated on 499 subjects admitted to our institute. The association between biomarkers and smoking habits in the presence/absence of disease and with the number of vessel affected, was studied. Results: Oxidative stress and inflammatory levels (p < 0.001) were strongly induced by smoking habits. Serum values of the subjects categorised as CAD, non CAD and healthy subjects differed significantly (p < 0.001) only for the degree of oxidative stress. Glycaemia was able to affect C-reactive protein serum levels with a positive association (p < 0.05). The analysis of the study population indicated that serum oxidative stress levels significantly increased with increasing number of vessels affected (p < 0.01). When statistical analysis was performed separately in both smoking groups, smokers did not show any particular difference for both oxidative stress and inflammation markers between the two groups of cardiovascular patients (CAD and non CAD) and the control group, while for non smokers, the differences were evident. Conclusion: These findings indicate that the considered biomarkers, especially oxidative stress, can be useful to predict the biological damage caused by cigarette smoking, as well as to identify subjects characterised by a higher risk of cardiovascular event, but cannot evaluate the presence of disease in subjects with smoking habit.
文摘The majority of the world’s population suffers from gingivitis/periodontitis. This inflammatory process is caused by several bacterial species inside the dental plaque. In vivo and in vitro experiments were set up. The patients of the in vivo group were divided into a noni and a control group. Both groups contained patients that suffered from gingivitis/periodontitis who were introduced to practice standardized, good oral hygiene. The patients in the noni group additionally used noni juice for mouth wash two times a day. The Papillae-Bleeding-Index (PBI) was evaluated comparing the status of inflammation in both groups. Bacterial probes were isolated from the patient’s gingival pouches for species identification and to carry out in vitro experiments for possible antimicrobial effects of noni juice. The Papillae-Bleeding-Index (PBI) in the noni group has “highly significantly” improved from an average of 2.25 at the beginning of the observation period (t0) to 1.01 after four weeks of noni treatment (t1), compared to a change from 2.11 at t0 to 1.95 at t1 inthe control group. A comparison of the differences of the PBI-values (t0-t1) between the noni and the control group was highly significant using a t-test on a level of p = 0.01. Only small inhibition zones were observed in the agar diffusion test on agar plates coated with aerobic, anaerobic and Candida cultures isolated from the patients gingival pouches after treatment with original or neutralized noni juice in different concentrations. Weak bacteriostatic effects occurred in the agar dilution experiments with noni juice in higher concentrations (native and neutralized noni juice). The present investigation has shown that the combination of good oral hygiene and the administration of noni juice was a promising treatment for gingivitis and periodontitis. The additional treatment with noni juice significantly mitigated the gingival inflammation.
文摘Bone marrow edema syndrome (BMES), is a rare and self-limiting condition characterized by localized bone pain and transient marrow edema visible on MRI. BMES has been increasingly associated with specific cutaneous manifestations that may hold diagnostic and prognostic significance. Patients with BMES have reported localized erythema, dermal thickening, and induration overlying the affected joints, which are hypothesized to reflect microvascular compromise and inflammatory processes within the bone and adjacent soft tissues. Dermatologic signs are likely linked to regional hyperemia, venous stasis, and cytokine-mediated inflammation, paralleling the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying intraosseous edema. Elevated intraosseous pressure in BMES may disrupt local perfusion, resulting in ischemia-reperfusion injury and subsequent vascular leakage, which manifests in visible cutaneous changes. Pro-inflammatory mediators, such as interleukin-1β and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), central to BMES pathogenesis, may exacerbate endothelial activation, and dermal involvement. Histopathologic studies of affected skin have revealed perivascular lymphocytic infiltration and increased dermal vascularity, further supporting the theory of a shared ischemic and inflammatory pathway between bone and skin. Although MRI remains the gold standard for BMES diagnosis, recognition of these cutaneous manifestations could expedite orthopedic referral and intervention, especially in cases where imaging is delayed or symptoms are ambiguous. Current treatment options, including bisphosphonates, prostacyclin analogs, and offloading of weight bearing, may benefit from integration with dermatologic strategies to alleviate localized cutaneous symptoms and improve patient comfort. Evaluating the molecular and vascular links between BMES and its cutaneous manifestations provides an opportunity to refine diagnostic protocols and therapeutic approaches, offering a comprehensive understanding of the systemic interplay between dermal and skeletal pathophysiology, and optimizing clinical outcomes for patients affected by BMES.
文摘Background and Objective: Interleukin-1 (IL-1) binds to 2 distinct and separate receptors, types I and II (IL-1RI and IL-1RII, respectively). The binding of IL-1 to IL-1RI induces cellular signaling and biological effects, whereas binding to IL-1RII does not induce cellular signaling and indirectly inhibits IL-1 biological activities such as that of the decoy receptor. Recently, Suzukiet al.reported that soluble IL-1RII (sIL-1RII) was detected in gingival crevicular fluid from a periodontitis patient. However, it remains unclear which cells produce sIL-1RII detected in periodontal tissues. We examined the localization of IL-1RII producing cells in gingival tissues as well as related production control mechanisms. Material and Methods: IL-1RII mRNA expression in gingival epithelial cells (GE1) was performed by real-time PCR analysis, while the amount of sIL-1RII production in supernatant from GE1 cells was examined by dot-blot analysis. Involvement of the phosphorylation of STAT6 in the signaling pathway was determined by western blot analysis. Statistical analysis was performed with Student’st-test. Results: Culturing with IL-4 and IL-13 significantly increased IL-1RII mRNA to levels 10.5-and 8.89-fold, respectively, above that of the control (p< 0.01), while addition of interferon-γ (IFN-γ) significantly suppressed IL-1RII mRNA by 0.22-fold as compared to the control (p< 0.05). Soluble IL-1RII in the supernatant of cultured GE1 cells was increased by IL-4 and IL-13, and decreased by IFN-γ, while western blotting determines the suppression of IL-1RII production by IFN-γ. Without the addition of IL-4 or IL-13 with or without IFN-γ, P-Tyr-STAT6 was not detected. Conclusion: IL-1RII mRNA expression and sIL-1RII production were increased by IL-4 and IL-13, and decreased by IFN-γ. Finally, IL-4 signaling was regulated by IFN-γ through phosphorylation of STAT6 and IL-13 signaling blockage by IFN-γ downstream of STAT6 translocation.
文摘We have previously demonstrated that acute treatment with low dose methamphetamine is neuroprotectivein a rat model of severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). Using gene expression analysis, we further showed that methamphetamine treatment significantly reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory genes after severe TBI. Therefore, to further investigate the potential effects of methamphetamine treatment on the neuroinflammatory response, we examined immunofluorescent staining of Iba1 and CD68, two marker of neuroinflammation, in the rat lateral fluid percussion injury model of severe TBI. In this study, we observed temporal and spatial alterations in the pattern of Iba1 and CD68 labeling within two weeks after severe TBI. In general, methamphetamine treatment did not dramatically alter the pattern of Iba1 and CD68 staining. However, we did observe a unique and significant drug-induced increase of Iba1 labeling within the granule cell layer of the dentate gyrusat 48 hours post injury. We also observed rod-shaped Iba1+?cells within the core lesion in the cortex. These cells showed variable staining with CD68 and aligned most closely with MAP2+?neuronal processes. Thus, acute treatment with low-dose methamphetamine after severe TBI caused a transient bilateral increase of Iba1+?cells within the granule layer of the dentate gyrus but did not alter the overall temporal and regional pattern of Iba1 and CD68 staining within the cortex, periventricular white matter, fimbria, or thalamus.
文摘Objective: To study a comprehensive proteomic analysis of celecoxib in oseteoarthritis (OA) chondrocytes. Methods: OA chondrocytes were stimulated with celecoxib, IL-1β and IL-1β together with celecoxib. Proteins were extracted from the cells and subjected to 2-dimensional differential image gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE). Proteins of interest were identified by mass spectrometry. Results: Eighty-six protein spots showed significantly different intensities with each reagent or reagent combination. AAA+ protein, HSP47/Serpin, cAMP-dependent protein kinase type II-beta regulatory subunit, alpha-actin-4 and tubulin decreased with the addition of celecoxib, while apolipoprotein A-V, glutamate carboxipeptide 2, mitochondrial stress-70 protein, sorting nexin-9 and GRP78 increased with the addition of celecoxib. GRP78 is a stress protein and may be chondroprotective. Celecoxib modulated IL-1β stimulated chondrocytes, and CD200R and moesin were identified as such resulting proteins. Conclusion: Protein profiles of OA chondrocytes changed after administration of celecoxib. Further investigation is needed to elucidate the function of each protein in OA chondrocytes.
文摘Chronic systemic inflammation is associated with many conditions of aging such as atherosclerosis. Lowering high n-6:n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) ratios are commonly found in Western diets aids in preventing inflammatory-related diseases. However, it is not clear whether dietary interventions designed to alter n-6:n-3 PUFA ratios can reduce systemic inflammation in younger adults. Studies that evaluate PUFA intake often use subjective data from food frequency questionnaires or food records rather than more precise physiological measures of PUFAs (e.g. plasma levels). Therefore, the purpose of this pilot study that analyzed data from the experimental parent study of younger adults (n = 18), was to determine whether plasma PUFA levels were associated with levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), an inflammatory marker, and if supplementation with n-3 PUFAs was correlated with rising n-3 PUFA concentrations in plasma and decreasing n-6:n-3 ratios. In the parent study, participants received daily either placebo or n-3 PUFA softgels (1.6 g eicosapentaenoic acid [EPA] and 1.2 g docosahexaenoic acid [DHA]). EPA and DHA are the biologically active components in fish oil. Measures included blood for PUFA quantification at baseline and four weeks later, when blister wounds were created and wound fluid and saliva were collected. The saliva samples were used to measure CRP in the present study. We report that CRP was significantly and negatively correlated with total n-3 PUFAs (tau-β = ?0.373, p = 0.031) and positively correlated with n-6:n-3 ratios (tau-β = 0.320, p = 0.063). Those consuming EPA + DHA supplements had significantly higher concentrations of total n-3 PUFAs and significantly lower n-6:n-3 ratios (p The present study has shown that beneficial levels of n-3 PUFAs and n-6:n3 ratios were achieved with 4-weeks of EPA + DHA supplementation and were associated with reduced CRP in young adults. EPA + DHA supplementation for some young adults may help prevent inflammatory conditions later in life.
文摘NEM®?brand eggshell membrane is a novel dietary supplement that has been clinically shown to alleviate arthritis joint pain and stiffness;however the mechanism of action is not well understood. Preliminary evidence from an?in vitro?study of?NEM®?indicated that the mechanism of action may be based on the reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines.?In vivo?studies were therefore initiated to evaluate the effects of?NEM®?on pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines following oral administration in rats.?NEM®?was administered daily at doses of 6.13 mg/kg bw/day (Study 1), 10.0 mg/kg bw/day (Study 2), or at doses of 0 (control), 26.0 or 52.0 mg/kg bw/day (Study 3) by oral gavage for 7 consecutive days. Inflammation was induced in the Study 3 rats by intraperitoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide. Changes in plasma cytokine levels from baseline following 7 days of oral supplementation with?NEM®?at 6.13 mg/kg bw/ day (Study 1) were statistically significant at Day 8 for IL-2, TIMP-1 and VEGF, at Day 21 for IL-10, and at Day 35 for MCP-1, MCP-3 and TIMP-1, and at 10.0 mg/kg bw/day (Study 2) were statistically significant at Day 8 for VEGF, at Day 21 for MIP-1β, MIP-2 and VEGF, and at Day 35 for MCP-3, MIP-1β, MIP-2 and VEGF. Changes in serum cytokine levels versus control at 26.0 mg/kg bw/day (Study 3) were statistically significant at all time-points for IL-1β?and at 1.5 hours for IL-10, and at 52.0 mg/kg bw/day (Study 3) were statistically significant at 1.5 hours for IFN-γ, IL-1β?and IL-10, and at 3 hours for IL-1β, and at 24 hours for IL-10. Taken together, these studies demonstrate that oral supplementation with?NEM®?can influence both early-phase pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-1β?and TNF-α?(Study 3), as well as later-phase cytokines like MCP-1, MIP-1α?&?β, RANTES and VEGF (Study 1 & 2). These studies provide a possible basis for the mechanism of action of?NEM®?in vivo.
文摘Objective: To explore the effects of Anwei decoction (AD) on the protein expression of TFF in rats with chronic atrophic gastritis(CAG). Methods: Forty-eight healthy rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: normal control group, pathologic model group, Anwei Decoction group, and Weifuchun group. CAG was induced in rats with N-methy-N-nitro-N-nitrogua-nidine (MNNG). The protein expression of TFF in rats’ gastric mucosa was determined by immunohistochemistry. Results: Compared with that in the normal control group, the protein expression of TFF1 was significantly enhanced in the pathologic model, Anwei Decoction and Weifuchun groups (both P TFF1 was significantly higher in the Anwei Decoction group than in the Weifuchun group (P < 0.01). Compared with the normal control group, the protein expression of TFF2 was significantly enhanced in the pathologic model, Anwei Decoction and Weifuchun groups (both P < 0.01). The protein expression level of TFF2 was significantly higher in the Anwei Decoction group than in the Weifuchun group (P < 0.01). In comparison with the pathologic model group, the protein expression of TFF3 was remarkably reduced in Anwei Decoction and Weifuchun groups (both P < 0.01). but there was no difference between the group of Anwei decoction and the group of Weifuchun (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Anwei decoction may be effective in the treatment of CAG by enhancing the protein expression of TFF1, TFF2 while reducing that of TFF3 in gastric mucosas.
基金funded in part by the Coordination of Improvement of Higher Level Personnel—Brazil(CAPES)—Finance Code 001 by the National Council of Scientific and Technological Development—Brazil(CNPq)—Doctorate GDby Research Foundation of the State of Rio Grande do Sul(FAPERGS).
文摘Parotid gland adenocarcinoma is commonly a tumor of low malignancy and low incidence worldwide. The reported case shows the rapid progression of this tumor in an elderly patient and infrequent effects, such as a presentation of facial edema not commonly described in the medical literature. Patient was admitted to hospital in November 2019 with secretion and partial hearing loss in the right ear and infiltrative and stone lesion with initial skin ulceration in the right cervical region. After 42 days, he returned and was admitted to the intensive care unit with significant swelling of the face, hardened and hyperemic neck, difficulty in speech and inability to open the eye. He presented changes in the mobility of the speech and hearing organs, reduced laryngeal mobility, vocal changes, speech with altered articulation and severe oropharyngeal dysphagia with risk of bronchoaspiration. The patient was diagnosed in September 2019 with a parotid tumor (salivary gland adenocarcinoma T4). The medical team requested computed tomography, computed tomography angiography of the chest and cervical vessels and computed tomography of the neck, in addition to evaluation by the head and neck surgery service and general surgery. After analyzing the results, the medical team suggested a hypothesis of tumor invasion that could result in obstruction of local lymphatic drainage, something unusual in the evolution of this type of tumor. In addition, it was not possible to adhere to radiotherapy treatment due to the extent of the lesion and there was also no confirmation of metastases. The reported case shows us that parotid gland adenocarcinoma, when diagnosed in an advanced stage, can limit the approach to treatment. It was chosen in agreement with the family to proceed with palliative care without invasive measures. Palliative care may be the best option for cases like this, bringing some comfort to the patient and his family.
文摘Background: The Mediterranean Diet (MD) has been linked to a reduced risk of developing degenerative diseases, including atherosclerosis, heart stroke, diabetes, arthritis and cancer. However, only a few scientific investigations have attempted to validate this impression. The ingredients of the MD include significant amounts of omega (ω3, ω6, and ω9) unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs). A few studies of these UFAs in the prevention or treatment of arthritis have yielded controversial results, but a general belief regarding their beneficial effects has prevailed. Objective: To investigate the effects of three relevant UFAs, namely Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA), Arachidonic Acid (AA), and Oleic Acid (OA) (ω3, ω6, and ω9, respectively), in the development of arthritis using a murine model of Collagen-Induced Arthritis (CIA). Methods: DBA-1 mice were immunized with chicken collagen type II (CII) and were subsequently treated with ω-UFAs for 53 days. Dexamethasone (DEXA) was used as a positive anti-inflammatory agent. The effect of the treatments was evaluated through several parameters: inflammation indices, antibody levels, cell prolifera- tion, and histopathological findings. Results and Conclusion: The anti-inflammatory effect of the tested substances was inversely correlated with the histopathological findings: a greater anti- inflammatory effect was associated with less articular damage. Oleic acid (ω9) was the most efficient anti-inflammatory UFA, followed by DHA and then AA. DEXA completely inhibited the development of arthritis, whereas the untreated CII-immunized mice developed the most severe articular damage. DBA-1 mice with CII-induced arthritis constitute an adequate model for the study of arthritis and its treatment.
文摘Available reports suggest that, Leishmania donovani antigen KMP-11 may be significant in the modulation of immune responses in visceral leishmaniasis (VL). This study evaluated vaccine prospect of presentation of KMP-11 antigen through murine dendritic cells against VL in infected BALB/c mice. We report here that immunization with KMP-11 delivered through bone marrow derived dendritic cells can lead to killing of L. donovani in infected BALB/c mice. Furthermore, the strategy to use KMP-11 as vaccine delivered through DCs can stimulate the production of IFN-g, IL-12, IL-2R and TNF-α with concomitant down-regulation of IL-10 and IL-4. Furthermore, anti-leishmanial defence function (ROS) of splenocytes was observed increased in the presence of DC-delivered KMP-11 vaccination accompanied with an increased p38-MAPK signalling in vaccinated splenocytes. We summarized from our data that KMP-11 delivered through DCs has potential for eliciting protective immunity through pro-inflammatory cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-12, IL-2, TNF-α) following an up-regulation in signalling event of p38-MAPK. Therefore the study suggests a new control strategy against VL in future.
文摘Purpose: Interstitial Lung Diseases (ILD) are characterized by inflammation and fibrosis. It described the role of hyaluronic acid (HA) as an immune-regulator. It is not known if HA contributes to the recruitment of inflammatory cells associated with ILD. If this hypothesis was correct, then concentrations of HA in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) should correlate with the severity of ILD. Methods: We collected BAL from 22 ILD patients and 15 control subjects. We determined HA and cytokine levels by ELISA. In vitro chemotaxis assays were performed by using a transwell system. Results: We found that ILD patients showed a significant increase in HA, IL-6 levels and the amount of cells in BAL compared to control subjects. We detected a significant positive correlation between HA and IL-6 levels (r = 0.53 and p In vitro, HA induced migration of macrophages and monocytes through a CD44-dependent process. BAL from patients with ILD stimulated macro-phage migration and this was abrogated by hyaluronidase. Conclusions: Our results support the hypothesis that HA contributes to the recruitment of monocytes towards the alveolar space, leading to exacerbation of lung inflammation in ILD patients.
