Exploring the mechanism of Corbrin capsules in the intervention of AKI-COVID-19 based on network pharmacology combined with GEO dataset.

AIM: of the study: This study used network pharmacology and the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database to investigate the therapeutic effects of Corbrin capsules on acute kidney injury (AKI)-COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The active constituents and specific molecular targets of Corbrin capsules were obtained from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) and Swiss Target Prediction databases. The targets related to AKI and COVID-19 disease were obtained from the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM), GeneCards, and GEO databases. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed by utilizing Cytoscape. To enhance the analysis of pathways associated with the pathogenesis of AKI-COVID-19, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were performed. Furthermore, immune infiltration analysis was performed by using single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) and CIBERSORT. Molecular docking was used to assess interactions between differentially expressed genes and active ingredients. Verification was performed by utilizing GEO databases and in vivo assays. RESULTS: This study revealed an overlap of 18 significantly differentially expressed genes between the Corbrin capsules group and the AKI-COVID-19 target group. Analysis of the PPI network identified TP53, JAK2, PIK3CA, PTGS2, KEAP1, and MCL1 as the top six core protein targets with the highest degrees. The results obtained from GO and KEGG analyses demonstrated that the target genes were primarily enriched in the apoptosis and JAK-STAT signaling pathways. Moreover, the analysis of immune infiltration revealed a notable disparity in the percentage of quiescent memory CD4 + T cells. Western blot analyses provided compelling evidence suggesting that the dysregulation of 6 core protein targets could be effectively reversed by Corbrin capsules. CONCLUSION: This study revealed the key components, targets, and pathways involved in treating AKI-related COVID-19 using Corbrin capsules. This study also provided a new understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying this treatment.

Probiotic-fermented Portulaca oleracea L. alleviated DNFB-induced atopic dermatitis by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Probiotic fermentation is a mild and safe biological method to boost the performance of herbs. Portulaca oleracea L. (PO), with folklore records of purgative, anti-dermatological and anti-epidemic effects, has been demonstrated to possess anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant properties. However, the potential of PO for the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD) has not been sufficiently explored. AIM OF STUDY: This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic benefits of PO and fermented Portulaca oleracea L. (FPO) and explore their intrinsic mechanisms. METHODS: By utilizing 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene-induced AD mice as a model, the histopathology of the lesions was observed using H&E and toluidine blue staining methods; the levels of immunoglobulin E (Ig E), histamine (HIS), and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) in serum were measured using ELISA, whereas, the expression of inflammatory cytokines in skin lesion was measured using ELISA and immunohistochemistry experiments. The expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), IKKα, NF-κB mRNA was measured using qPCR; and the expression of TNF-α、p-IKKα, p-IκBα, p-NF-κB was measured using western blotting. RESULTS: Both 20 mg/mL PO and FPO alleviated mast cell infiltration and lesion pathology, reduced serum levels of Ig E, HIS and TSLP, down-regulated the expression of AD-related inflammatory cytokines, such as, TNF-α, interferon-γ, and interleukin-4, and increased filaggrin expression. Furthermore, they inhibited the expression of TNF-α, IKKα, and NF-κB genes and TNF-α, p-IKKα, p-NF-κB and p-IκBα proteins associated with the NF-κB signaling pathway. CONCLUSIONS: PO and FPO has a positive therapeutic potential on AD, indicating that it may be employed as alternative therapies for AD.

Role of L-Arginine on the Expression of Coagulation Factor VIII Gene.

Objective: To explore the key sites in which L-arginine affects the expression of human coagulation factor VIII gene, and to create new drug targets for the treatment of hemophilia. Methods: A total of 5 human FVIII genes (A1, A2, A3, C1 and C2) with B domain deletion were transfected into human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) as promoters. Run-on assay and ELISA analysis were performed to observe the driving effect of each domain gene on chloramphenicol acetyl transferase (CAT) gene transcription and expression, and the effect of L-arginine on each promoter. Results: In co-culture with L-arginine, transcriptional expression of the CAT gene was not detected in the PCAT3-Basic group (negative control without promoters), PA3-CAT3-Enhancer group or PC1-CAT3-Enhancer group. The transcriptional expression of CAT gene in the PCAT3-Control group (positive control with promoters) and PA1-CAT3-Enhancer group was unchanged compared with the non-L-arginine intervention, while the transcriptional expression of CAT gene in the PA2-CAT3-Enhancer group was significantly enhanced. Conclusions: A1 and A2 domain genes had promoter function and could initiate the transcription and expression of CAT gene, but A3, C1 and C2 domain genes could not. Moreover, L-arginine can significantly enhance transcription and expression of human coagulation factor VIII via A2 domain.

Enhanced stability and clinical absorption of a form of encapsulated vitamin A for food fortification.

Food fortification is an effective strategy to address vitamin A (VitA) deficiency, which is the leading cause of childhood blindness and drastically increases mortality from severe infections. However, VitA food fortification remains challenging due to significant degradation during storage and cooking. We utilized an FDA-approved, thermostable, and pH-responsive basic methacrylate copolymer (BMC) to encapsulate and stabilize VitA in microparticles (MPs). Encapsulation of VitA in VitA-BMC MPs greatly improved stability during simulated cooking conditions and long-term storage. VitA absorption was nine times greater from cooked MPs than from cooked free VitA in rats. In a randomized controlled cross-over study in healthy premenopausal women, VitA was readily released from MPs after consumption and had a similar absorption profile to free VitA. This VitA encapsulation technology will enable global food fortification strategies toward eliminating VitA deficiency.

Draft genome sequence of a new carotenoid-producing strain Brevibacterium sp. XU54, isolated from radioactive soil in Xinjiang, China.

Some species of the genus Brevibacterium are orange bacteria involved in cheese ripening, synthesis of odoriferous compounds, and carotenoids with aromatic end groups. Here, we report the genome sequence of Brevibacterium sp. XU54, isolated from radioactive soil in Xinjiang, China. The genome of XU54 consists of 4,899,099 base pairs with a GC content of 62.2%. The genome sequence was annotated with 4453 genes, encoding 4260 proteins, 13 rRNAs, and 49 tRNAs. 16S rRNA BLAST and comparative genomic analysis both indicated that XU54 may be a new species of Brevibacterium. In addition, compared to the type strains, some enzymes related to sulfur metabolism showed a low similarity of 66.85, 79.53 and 14.61%, respectively. The carotenoids biosynthesis gene cluster was identified and analyzed according to the genomic data, which revealed relatively low identity (5-85%) with existing strains. The optimum conditions for its growth and carotenoid production were then discussed. The whole-genome sequence of Brevibacterium sp. XU54 will be beneficial for utilizing these newly identified genes in carotenoid biosynthesis and regulation of sulfur metabolism pathway to promote the production of novel carotenoids and other structurally diverse compounds through combinatorial biosynthesis, which facilitates cheese ripening and coloration. Supplementary Information: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13205-022-03366-1.

[Acupuncture combined with western medication for ocular myasthenia gravis: a randomized controlled trial].

OBJECTIVE: To compare the clinical efficacy between acupuncture combined with western medication and simple western medication for ocular myasthenia gravis (OMG), and to explore its possible mechanism. METHODS: A total of 60 patients of ocular myasthenia gravis were randomized into an acupuncture combined with western medication group (30 cases, 1 case dropped off) and a western medication group (30 cases, 2 cases dropped off). Oral pyridostigmine bromide tablet and prednisone acetate tablet were given in the western medication group. On the basis of the treatment in the western medication group, Tongdu Tiaoqi acupuncture (acupuncture for unblocking the governor vessel and regulating qi ) was applied at Baihui (GV 20), Fengfu (GV 16), Hegu (LI 4), Zusanli (ST 36), etc. in the acupuncture combined with western medication group, once a day, 6 days a week. The treatment was given 8 weeks in both groups. Before and after treatment, the OMG clinical absolute score was observed, electrophysiological indexes of orbicularis oculi (value of mean jitter, percentage of jitter >55 µs and percentage of blocks) were measured by single-fiber electromyography (SFEMG), serum levels of acetylcholine receptor antibody (AChR-Ab), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and interleukin-4 (IL-4) were detected by ELISA method. RESULTS: After treatment, the OMG clinical absolute scores, values of mean jitter, percentages of jitter >55 µs, percentages of blocks and serum levels of AChR-Ab, IFN-γ and IL-4 were decreased compared before treatment in both groups (P<0.05), and those in the acupuncture combined with western medication group were lower than the western medication group (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Acupuncture combined with western medication can effectively improve ptosis, palpebra superior fatigability, eye movement disorder and neuromuscular junction dysfunction in patients with ocular myasthenia gravis, the therapeutic effect is superior to simple western medication. Its mechanism may be related to down-regulating serum levels of AChR-Ab, IFN-γ and IL-4 and promoting the recovery of orbicularis oculi function.

[Meta-analysis of Shenqi Jiangtang Granules combined with western medicine on adverse pregnancy outcomes in women with gestational diabetes mellitus].

The present study evaluated the effect of Shenqi Jiangtang Granules(SJG) combined with western medicine on the adverse pregnancy outcomes in women with gestational diabetes mellitus(GDM). PubMed, Web of Science, CNKI, Wanfang, and VIP were searched for clinical randomized controlled trials(RCTs) of SJG combined with western medicine against GDM. The included RCTs were assessed for risks using the assessment criteria recommended by the Cochrane handbook for systematic reviews of interventions. Meta-analysis was performed using Stata 12.0 and RevMan 5.3. Nineteen RCTs were included, with 1 647 patients involved, including 824 cases treated with western medicine alone, and 823 cases treated with SJG combined with western medicine. The course of treatment ranged from 2 to 12 weeks. As revealed by Meta-analysis results, compared with western medicine treatment alone, SJG combined with western medicine could reduce the incidence of postpartum hemorrhage(OR=0.23, 95%CI[0.10, 0.53], P=0.000 6), gestational hypertension(OR=0.24, 95%CI[0.13, 0.45], P<0.000 01), polyhydramnios(OR=0.24, 95%CI[0.12, 0.45], P<0.000 1), premature rupture of membranes(OR=0.20, 95%CI[0.09, 0.45], P<0.000 1), cesarean section(OR=0.40, 95%CI[0.29, 0.55], P<0.000 01), macrosomia(OR=0.19, 95%CI[0.08, 0.47], P<0.000 3), neonatal asphyxia(OR=0.22, 95%CI[0.12, 0.40], P<0.000 01), premature delivery(OR=0.19, 95%CI[0.12, 0.30], P<0.000 01), proteinuria(OR=0.19, 95%CI[0.06, 0.58], P=0.004) and hypoglycemia(OR=0.28, 95%CI[0.16, 0.50], P<0.000 1). The funnel plots and Egger's test showed that except macrosomia, there was no significant publication bias in the results of other indicators. Therefore, as indicated by the findings, SJG combined with western medicine can reduce the incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes in GDM patients. However, due to the uneven quality of the included trials, the clinical application of this protocol requires caution.

Efficacy of MP-3 microperimeter biofeedback fixation training for low vision rehabilitation in patients with maculopathy.

BACKGROUND: To evaluate the efficacy of MP-3 microperimeter biofeedback fixation training (MBFT) in vision rehabilitation of low-vision patients affected by macular disease with central vision loss. METHODS: Seventeen eyes (7 age-related macular degeneration, 10 myopic maculopathy) of 17 patients were included in this prospective, interventional study. The preferred retinal locus was determined by comprehensive ophthalmoscopic fundus evaluation including fundus photography, autofluorescence, optical coherence tomography, and microperimetry. The rehabilitation consisted of three 10-min sessions per eye to be performed twice per week for 20 consecutive weeks using the MP-3 microperimeter. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), reading speed, mean central sensitivity, the percentages of fixation points within specified regions, bivariate contour ellipse area (BCEA) and the 25-item National Eye Institute visual function questionnaire (NEI-VFQ-25) were recorded pre- and post-training. RESULTS: The final BCVA, reading speed and mean central sensitivity all showed significant improvements after rehabilitation (P <  0.0001, P = 0.0013, and P = 0.0002, respectively). The percentages of fixation points located within 2° and 4° diameter circles both significantly increased after training (P = 0.0008 and P = 0.0007, respectively). The BCEA encompassing 68.2, 95.4, 99.6% of fixation points were all significantly decreased after training (P = 0.0038, P = 0.0022, and P = 0.0021, respectively). The NEI-VFQ-25 scores were significantly increased at the end of the rehabilitation training (P <  0.0001). CONCLUSION: Rehabilitation with MP-3 MBFT is a user-friendly therapeutic option for improving visual function, fixation stability, and quality of life in advanced macular disease. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The prospective study was registered with the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ( http://www.chictr.org.cn/ ). TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ChiCTR2000029586 . Date of registration: 05/02/2020.

Fabrication of flavour oil high internal phase emulsions by casein/pectin hybrid particles: 3D printing performance.

In this study, three-dimensional (3D) printable oil/water (O/W) high-internal-phase emulsions (HIPEs) (internal phase fraction = 75%) were fabricated using casein (3% w/v)/pectin (1-5% w/v) hybrid particles with flavour oil. The morphologies of the HIPEs, revealed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and cryo-scanning electron microscopy (cryo-SEM), indicated that the casein/pectin hybrid particles were mainly distributed on the interface of oil droplets. Additionally, the results of rheological and gel-strength measurements indicated that the viscosity (ranging from 1316.51-0.21 to 4301.84-0.79 Pa.s) of HIPEs increased with increasing pectin content (from 0% to 4% w/v), and the gel strength of printed HIPEs increased (from 10.37 to 21.19 g) with increasing pectin (from 1% to 5% w/v). The developed HIPEs were applied for 3D printing and the thus-printed objects could adequately maintain the designed shape and structure. The developed 3D printable HIPEs have excellent potential applications in the food, medical, and cosmetic industries.

[Lycium barbarum polysaccharide reduces testicular spermatogenic injury in Immp2l－/－mice through GPX4 and AIF pathways].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the protective effect of Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) against testicular spermatogenic injury in mice with oxidative stress (OS) and its mechanism. METHODS: A unique OS model was made in 1.5-month-old mice with mitochondrial inner membrane-like peptide-2 mutation (Immp2l－/－), which were fed with water (the negative control group) or LBP in water at the concentration of 20 mg/kg (the LBP intervention group), and wild-type Immp2l＋/＋ mice used as normal controls and fed with water only. Then all the mice were sacrificed at 13 months old and the testis tissue harvested for observation of pathological changes by HE staining, measurement of routine semen parameters, and detection of the apoptosis of spermatogenic cells by TUNEL and the expression levels of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF) by immunohistochemistry and Western blot. RESULTS: Thinned testicular cortex was observed in the negative controls, with evident vacuolar degeneration and reduced numbers of germ cells and elongated spermatids in the lumen of the seminiferous tubules, but all these pathological changes were improved and the germ cells at different levels orderly arranged in the LBP intervention group. Compared with the normal controls, the mice in the negative control group showed dramatically reduced sperm count (ï¼»72.89 ± 8.28ï¼½ vs ï¼»20.78 ± 1.45ï¼½ ×106, P<0.01) and the percentages of progressively motile sperm (PMS) (ï¼»58.62 ± 6.15ï¼½% vs ï¼»18.37 ± 2.67ï¼½%, P<0.01) and morphologically normal sperm (MNS) (ï¼»65.81 ± 7.69ï¼½% vs ï¼»20.33 ± 3.17ï¼½%, P<0.01) and increased apoptosis of spermatogenic cells (ï¼»1.45 ± 0.43ï¼½% vs ï¼»7.14 ± 0.78ï¼½%, P<0.01). LBP intervention, however, significantly increased the sperm count (ï¼»45.25 ± 3.39ï¼½ ×106, P<0.05), PMS (ï¼»36.34 ± 4.56ï¼½%, P<0.05) and MNS (ï¼»38.72 ± 3.63ï¼½%, P<0.05) and decreased the apoptosis of spermatogenic cells (ï¼»2.28 ± 0.07ï¼½%, P<0.01). The mice in the LBP intervention group, in comparison with the negative controls, exhibited remarkably up-regulated expression of GPX4 (2.75 ± 0.48 vs 1.43 ± 0.17, P<0.05) and down-regulated expression of AIF (2.43 ± 0.15 vs 1.35 ± 0.51, P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Lycium barbarum polysaccharide at 20 mg/kg can reduce testicular spermatogenic injury in Immp2l－/－ mice with oxidative stress through GPX4 and AIF pathways.

[Effect of resveratrol on PTEN expression and fibrosis of renal tubular epithelial cells in a high-glucose environment].

This study explored the effects of resveratrol(Res) on the expression of phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome ten(PTEN) and the fibrosis of rat renal tubular epithelial cells in a high-glucose environment and the possible mechanism underlying the fibrosis reduction. After the pretreatment of rat renal tubular epithelial cells(NRK-52 E) cultured in a high-glucose condition with Res or PTEN inhibitor SF1670, they were divided into several groups, i.e., normal glucose(NG), normal glucose + SF1670(NS), high glucose(HG), high glucose + SF1670(HS), high glucose + Res at different concentrations(5, 10, 25 µmol·L~(-1)). The expression and distribution of E-cadherin and α-SMA in renal tubular epithelial cells were observed by immunofluorescence cytochemistry. The protein expression levels of PTEN, E-cadherin, α-SMA, p-Akt~((Thr308)) and collagen Ⅳ were determined by Western blot. Real-time PCR was employed to detect the expression of PTEN mRNA. Compared with the NG group, the HG group witnessed the reduced expression of PTEN mRNA, PTEN protein and E-cadherin protein, but saw the increased expression of α-SMA, p-Akt~((Thr308)) and collagen Ⅳ proteins. Besides, with the increase in Res concentration, the expression levels of PTEN mRNA, PTEN protein and E-cadherin protein gradually increased, while those of α-SMA, collagen Ⅳ, p-Akt~((Thr308)) proteins gradually decreased in the Res groups, showing a dose-effect dependence, compared with the HG group. No distinct difference was found between the NS group and the NG group. The expression level of E-cadherin was even lower and those of α-SMA, p-Akt~((Thr308)), and collagen Ⅳ were higher in the HS group than in the HG group, with no marked difference shown in the two groups in terms of PTEN mRNA and protein. Although the PTEN inhibitor did not affect PTEN, the expression changes of the other proteins were opposite to the results after Res treatment and the fibrosis was aggravated, which suggested that SF1670 promoted the fibrosis by inhibiting PTEN, activating Akt and increasing the synthesis of collagen Ⅳ and other extracellular matrix. The results show that Res can antagonize the high glucose-mediated fibrosis of renal tubular epithelial cells. This may be achieved via the up-regulation of PTEN and the inhibition of PI3 K/Akt signaling pathway.

Corrigendum: The Role of High-Content Complex Dietary Fiber in Medical Nutrition Therapy for Gestational Diabetes Mellitus.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.684898.].

The Role of High-Content Complex Dietary Fiber in Medical Nutrition Therapy for Gestational Diabetes Mellitus.

Objectives: A controlled open clinical study was conducted to evaluate the role of Ricnoat, a high-content complex dietary fiber powder produced by Zhuhai Aimed Biotechnology Co. Ltd., in medical nutrition therapy (MNT) to treat gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). The study aimed to investigate glycemic control, lipid control, weight control, and pregnancy outcomes (neonatal weight) in patients with GDM, as well as evaluate the clinical safety of Ricnoat. Methods: A total of 120 patients with GDM who were admitted to three hospitals in Shanghai between January 2019 and January 2020 were enrolled. Ricnoat was used for intervention for patients in the experimental group. Using a χ2 test and t-test, respectively, comparisons were conducted between the measurement data and countable data of the demographics and baseline disease characteristics of the experimental group and control group. Results: Fasting blood glucose, 2-h postprandial blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein, maternal gestational weight gain, neonatal weight, serum creatinine, glutamate transaminase, and aspartate aminotransferase were lower in the experimental group than in the control group, whereas high-density lipoprotein was higher in the experimental group than in the control group. Ricnoat intervention resulted in satiety higher than the expected 80% and more common occurrence of type 4 (smooth and soft, like salami or a snake) and type 5 (a soft mass with clear edges) stools. Conclusion: Ricnoat intervention had a significant effect on glycemic control, lipid control, weight control, and pregnancy outcomes (neonatal weight) in patients with GDM by enhancing maternal satiety and improving the stool features of pregnant women. It was also found to be safe for application during pregnancy.

[Effects of Vitamin D Supplementation on Serum Lipid Profiles and Neonatal Outcomes in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus:a Meta-analysis].

Objective To evaluate the effects of vitamin D supplementation on serum lipid profiles and neonatal prognosis in gestational diabetes mellitus(GDM)patients.Methods The electronic databases including PubMed,Web of Science,Embase,CNKI,and Wanfang Data were searched from inception to February 1,2020.All randomized controlled trials that compared vitamin D supplementation with placebo or without supplementation for GDM women were included.Paper selection,data extraction,meta-analysis and sensitivity analysis were conducted independently by two authors.Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool.The data were analyzed in RevMan 5.3 software and Stata 12.0.Results Totally 17 randomized controlled trials involving 1432 patients(704 in the intervention group and 728 in the control group)were included in the meta-analysis.The results showed that vitamin D supplementation significantly reduced serum total cholesterol [MD=-6.11,95% CI=(-7.17,-5.04)],low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [MD=-10.80,95% CI=(-14.72,-6.89)],and triglyceride [MD=-8.11,95% CI=(-10.09,-6.13)],while significantly increased serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 level [MD=45.45,95% CI=(41.98,48.92)] and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [MD=2.77,95% CI=(1.59,3.96)].In addition,vitamin D supplementation significantly reduced the incidence rate of hyperbilirubinemia [RR=0.49,95% CI=(0.35,0.68)],premature birth [RR=0.44,95% CI=(0.27,0.72)],and neonatal hospitalization [RR=0.44,95% CI=(0.29,0.67)].Conclusions Vitamin D supplementation may regulate the serum lipid profiles in patients with GDM and reduce the incidence of adverse neonatal outcomes.More high-quality RCTs are needed to confirm the findings in our study.

Acupuncture for Cancer Pain - An Adjuvant Therapy for Cancer Pain Relief.

As current pain management methods cannot effectively control pain among cancer patients, acupuncture has developed as an adjuvant therapy for cancer pain relief. However, the efficacy of acupuncture in treating cancer pain remains controversial. Here, we briefly introduced the development of pain management, analgesic mechanisms, and acupuncture methods. Meanwhile, a comprehensive overview of acupuncture programs was provided in terms of different cancer types, sources, and degrees. Interestingly, acupuncture can treat both tumor-induced pain and therapy-induced pain well among cancer patients. We preliminarily summarized frequently-used acupoints for different types of cancer pain and found that needle retention time was mostly 30 min, and treatment cycle was two weeks. Additionally, clinicians consistently selected Ashi acupoint or bilateral Zusanli acupoint and combined multiple acupuncture methods for different degrees of cancer pain.

Lycium barbarum polysaccharide protects against ethanol-induced spermiotoxicity and testicular degeneration in Immp2l+/- mice.

Studies have indicated that high levels of ethanol exposure impaired spermatogenesis in mice. However, the effects of chronic and low-dose alcohol consumption on susceptible populations remain unclear. The previous studies have confirmed that Immp2l mutant mice (Immp2lTg(Tyr)979Ove or Immp2l-/- ) suffered from increased levels of oxidative stress(OS) and male infertility, heterozygous lmmp2l mice (Immp2l+/- ) showed no altered ROS levels under physiological condition. Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) significantly scavenge oxygen free radicals and enhance antioxidant enzyme activity. The objectives of present study were to research the effects of chronic and low-dose alcohol-induced damage on Immp2l+/- , explore the protective function of LBP and possible mechanism. The results indicated that chronic ethanol exposure leads to spermatogenic impairment and triggered a toxic effect on germ cell, 10 mg/kg LBP administration improved the quality of spermatozoon, decreased the ratio of apoptotic germ cells and the expression of Col1a1 and Col1a2, while increased the level of TNP2 and RPL31. In conclusion, the study may provide basic knowledge about LBP's important role against ethanol-induced spermiotoxicity and testicular degeneration in Immp2l+/- mice, and the mechanism may be that LBP influenced the state of the spermatogenic epithelium by decreasing the expression of Collagen level leading to alterations in protein biosynthesis during the process of spermatogenesis.

Effectiveness of two guided self-administered interventions for psychological distress among women with infertility: a three-armed, randomized controlled trial.

STUDY QUESTION: What is the effect of two guided self-administered interventions on psychological distress in women undergoing IVF or ICSI? SUMMARY ANSWER: A brief mindfulness intervention significantly reduced depression and improved sleep quality, while the gratitude journal intervention showed no significant effect on any outcome variables. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: Mindfulness and gratitude journal interventions have been found to be beneficial in reducing negative affect and improving well-being. However, there are very few mental health professionals who implement such interventions in low- and middle-income countries. Therefore, two guided self-administered interventions for women with infertility were designed to help them cope with their psychological distress. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION: A three-armed, randomized controlled trial was designed to evaluate the mindfulness and gratitude journal interventions for women undergoing IVF/ICSI. Between May 2016 and November 2017, at the reproductive center in a public hospital, 234 women were randomly assigned to the brief mindfulness group (BMG, n = 78), gratitude journal group (GJG, n = 78) or control group (CG, n = 78). The inclusion criteria were being a woman undergoing her first cycle of IVF, having at least junior middle school education and having no biological or adopted children. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS: Female infertility patients (n = 346) were approached, and 112 did not meet the inclusion criteria. All three randomized groups completed questionnaires on the day of down-regulation (T1), the day before embryo(s) transfer (T2), and 3 days before the pregnancy test (T3). The BMG completed four sessions and listened to a 20-minute audio daily, including guided mindfulness breathing and body scan. The GJG completed four sessions and wrote three gratitude journals daily. The CG received routine care. A generalized estimating equation was used in an intention-to-treat analysis. The primary outcome was depression. Secondary outcomes were anxiety, sleep quality, infertility-related stress, mindfulness and gratitude. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: Participants of the BMG showed decreased depression (mean difference (MD) = -1.69, [-3.01, -0.37], d = 0.44) and improved sleep quality (MD = -1.24, [-1.95, -0.39], d = 0.43) compared to the CG, but the effect was not significant for anxiety, Fertility Problem Inventory totals, mindfulness, gratitude scores or pregnancy rates. The BMG showed a significant reduction in depression and improvement in sleep quality between T1 and T2, a continuous significant reduction between T1 and T3 and no reduction between T2 and T3. There were no significant effects on any of the variables for the GJG. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION: The inclusion criteria may result in bias because some participants with low education were excluded and only women with infertility were included. A low compliance rate occurred in the gratitude journals group. Moreover, men were not included in this study. Further research should consider including spouses of the target population. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS: The brief mindfulness intervention was beneficial in decreasing depression and improving sleep quality. Implementation of guided self-administered mindfulness could make the psychological counseling service more accessible for patients with infertility in resource-poor settings. The efficiency and feasibility of the gratitude journal intervention needs to be investigated further. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S): This study was funded by the National Social Science Foundation (17BSH054). The authors have no conflicts of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ChiCTR-IOR-16008452. TRIAL REGISTRATION DATE: 9 May 2016. DATE OF FIRST PATIENT'S ENROLMENT: 15 May 2016.

Fangjing decoction relieves febrile seizures-induced hippocampal neuron apoptosis in rats via regulating the Akt/mTOR pathway.

Background: Fangjing decoction is a Traditional Chinese Medicine that exhibits anticonvulsive effects in treating febrile seizures (FS). Its action mechanism and the regulation on Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway were revealed in the present study.Methods: FS model was established in Sprague-Dawley rats with or without Fangjing decoction treatment. On day 5, following initiation of drug treatment, seizures were monitored. Hippocampal neuron apoptosis was assessed using terminal dUTP nick end-labeling method. The levels of Bax, protein kinase B (Akt), phospho-Akt (p-Akt), mTOR, and p-mTOR proteins were analyzed using Western blotting. The content of hippocampal γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) was measured by using ELISA assay.Results: Compared with the control group (n=8), Fangjing decoction effectively prolonged the latency but shortened the duration of FS in rats (n=8). Concomitantly, the apoptosis of hippocampal neurons, as well as Bax protein levels were also decreased in FS rats which were treated with Fangjing decoction. In addition, the Akt/mTOR signaling was found to be activated in rat hippocampus following FS, as evidenced by increased p-Akt and p-mTOR, while Fangjing decoction could inhibit the activation of Akt/mTOR signaling. Furthermore, the low GABA content in rat hippocampus following FS was significantly elevated by Fangjing decoction treatment. More importantly, SC79, a specific activator for Akt, apparently attenuated the protective effects of Fangjing decoction on FS rats.Conclusion: These results suggest that Fangjing decoction protects the hippocampal neurons from apoptosis by inactivating Akt/mTOR pathway, which may contribute to mitigating FS-induced brain injury.

Chinese herbal medicine formula for acute asthma: A multi-center, randomized, double-blind, proof-of-concept trial.

BACKGROUND: Despite advances in asthma management, exacerbations constitute a significant health economic burden. OBJECTIVE: To observe the efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal medicine formula entitled PingchuanYiqi (PCYQ) granule, on acute asthma and to explore its possible mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This proof-of-concept study consisted of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in patients with acute asthma (n = 300). Participants with acute mild-to-moderate asthma recruited from seven centers in China were randomly assigned to receive PCYQ or placebo. The primary outcomes were PEF (L/min) and total asthma symptom scores. Furthermore, a panel of cytokines including serum IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, IL-1ß, IL-17A, IFN-α, IFN-ß, IFN-γ, CRP, CCL-5, IP-10, and PGD2 levels was detected using ELISA. RESULTS: The PCYQ (n = 139) significantly improved the morning PEF on day 4 (349.73 ±â€¯93.92 vs. 313.56 ±â€¯92.91 L/min, P = 0.004) and day 7 (360.42 ±â€¯94.39 vs. 329.52 ±â€¯95.97 L/min, P = 0.023), and the evening PEF on day 4 (352.65 ±â€¯95.47 vs. 320.58 ±â€¯95.30 L/min, P = 0.012) and day 7 (360.42 ±â€¯94.39 vs. 336.86 ±â€¯95.59 L/min, P = 0.029) in comparison with the placebo (n = 143). The PCYQ also improved the clinical symptoms scores and reduced the puffs of short-acting ß2-agonist (all P < 0.05). Furthermore, the PCYQ statistically reduced IL-5, IL-8, IL-1ß and PGD2 in serum. CONCLUSION: The PCYQ as the Chinese herbal medicine formula significantly improves lung function and symptoms of acute asthma, and reduces SABA dosage possibly via decrease of inflammatory biomarkers such as IL-5, IL-8, IL-1ß and PGD2. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ISRCTN61674768 (http://www.isrctn.com/).

[Re-operation treatment in uremic patients complicated with persistent secondary hyperparathyroidism after parathyroidectomy with autotransplantation].

Objective:To analyze the clinical profile and therapeutic effect of re-operation treatment in uremic patients complicated with persistent secondary hyperparathyroidism(SHPT)after parathyroidectomy with autotransplantation.Method:Twelve persistent SHPT patients who were treated with reoperation of paramyroidectomy(PTX)were enrolled in this study during the period from Jan 2014 to Jul 2017 in our hospital.We evaluated the location of the remaining parathyroid glands by ultrasonography,dual-phase 99 Tcm-sestamibi scintigraphy,CT and MR imaging of the neck before the operation.We resected the parathyroid gland tissue in situ,and the ectopic parathyroid glands hiding in thymus,mediastinal,tracheal esophageal groove,thyroid gland and other locations in the neck.During the surgery,nanocarbon imaging was used to help identify the parathyroid gland and parathyroid hormone assay(IOPTH)was measured at the end of the surgery.We observed the changes of clinical symptoms after the surgery and collected blood parameters including serum intact aramyroidhomone(i-PTH),calcium(Ca),phosphoms(P),calcium and phosphorus product before and after surgery.Complications and failure were also analyzed.Result:All the 12 patients underwented successful operation.The postoperative pathological results were hyperplastic parathyroid glands tissue.22 parathyroid glands were resected,among which 14 were located at the neck in situ,8 were ectopic,i.e.,located at thymus in 4 cases,superior mediastinum in 2 cases and thyroid parenchyma in 2 cases.The clinical symptoms were significantly improved including osteoarthritis,skin itching and limb weakness.The levels of serum iPTH,calcium,phosphorus and calcium and phosphorus product were significantly lower than those before operation(P<0.05).Ten patients presented hypocalcemia after surgery and the level of calcium returned to normal after supplement of calcium.Temporary injury of laryngeal nerve was found in4 cases,but there was no patient with transient bucking,dyspnea or death.No recurrence was found during 1 year follow-up.Conclusion:It was very important to locate the residual parathyroid gland accurately with a variety of imaging methods in uremic patients complicated with persistent or recurrent SHPT when they needed re-operation.Surgeons should explorate ectopic parathyroid gland according to the concept of the superior mediastinum dissection and the central compartment neck dissection.Meanwhile,the use of nanocarbon assisted parathyroid gland negative imaging and rapid IOPTH can significantly improve the success rate of surgery and reduce surgical complications.