Ziwan-Taoren herb pair can exert an therapeutical effect in primary Sjogren’s syndrome through inhibiting the TLR/NF-κB pathway

Background:Ziwan and Taoren(ZT)is a classic medicine pair in the formula of Mai Dong Di Shao Decoction,has been used to treat primary Sjogren’s syndrome(pSS)for more than 20 years.But its action mechanism is still unknown.This study is aimed to reveal the potential mechanism of ZT treated pSS and discover its active compounds of ZT and therapeutic target for pSS.Methods:Firstly,the potential pathways of ZT for pSS treatment were predicted through network pharmacology and GO and KEGG enrichment analysis.Secondly,the inter-structural relationships between active compounds of ZT and target proteins were visualized using molecular docking techniques.Finally,efficacy and mechanism were conducted through in vivo experiments,such as water intake,spleen index,hematoxylin-eosin staining pathological changes,ELISA,Western Blot analysis,and immunofluorescence staining.Results:Nine active compounds were extracted from network pharmacology,including quercitrin,luteolin,kaempferol,β-sitosterol,isorhamnetin,galangin,hederagenin,diosmetin and gibberellin 7.Seven disease targets were identified:RELA,TP53,AKT1,interleukin(IL)6,MAPK1,ESR1,IL10;with RELA being the most core target.KEGG and GO enrichment analysis indicated that ZT may act through the TLR/NF-κB/RELA inflammatory mechanism process.preliminary results of molecular docking showed that ZT’s active compounds bind well to the RELA(p65)receptor.In vivo results demonstrated that a high dose of ZT significantly improved water intake and reduced lymphocytes infiltration in submandibular gland pathology in NOD mice.The expression content of AQP5 and vasoactive intestinal peptide in the submaxillary gland was significantly increased,while levels of inflammatory factors such as tumor necrosis factor-α,IL-6,and IL-1βalong with protein expressions including toll-like receptor4,p-p65 and p-IKKα/βin NF-κB pathway were reduced.Conclusions:The ZT treatment exhibits a promising efficacy in mitigating dryness symptoms of pSS,potentially attributed to its capacity for suppressing the TLR/NF-κB inflammatory signaling pathway.

Serotonin receptor 2B induces visceral hyperalgesia in rat model and patients with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome

BACKGROUND Serotonin receptor 2B(5-HT2B receptor)plays a critical role in many chronic pain conditions.The possible involvement of the 5-HT2B receptor in the altered gut sensation of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea(IBS-D)was investigated in the present study.AIM To investigate the possible involvement of 5-HT2B receptor in the altered gut sensation in rat model and patients with IBS-D.METHODS Rectosigmoid biopsies were collected from 18 patients with IBS-D and 10 patients with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation who fulfilled the Rome IV criteria and 15 healthy controls.The expression level of the 5-HT2B receptor in colon tissue was measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and correlated with abdominal pain scores.The IBS-D rat model was induced by intracolonic instillation of acetic acid and wrap restraint.Alterations in visceral sensitivity and 5-HT2B receptor and transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1(TRPV1)expression were examined following 5-HT2B receptor antagonist adminis-tration.Changes in visceral sensitivity after administration of the TRPV1 antago-INTRODUCTION Irritable bowel syndrome(IBS)is a chronic functional bowel disorder characterized by recurrent abdominal pain with altered bowel habits that affects approximately 15%of the population worldwide[1].IBS significantly impacts the quality of life of patients.Although the pathogenesis of IBS is not completely understood,the role of abnormal visceral sensitivity in IBS has recently emerged[2,3].5-Hydroxytryptamine(5-HT)is known to play a key role in the physiological states of the gastrointestinal tract.Plasma 5-HT levels in IBS with diarrhea(IBS-D)patients were greater than those in healthy controls[4],suggesting a possible role of 5-HT in the pathogenesis of IBS-D.The serotonin receptor 2(5-HT2 receptor)family comprises three subtypes:5-HT2A,5-HT2B,and 5-HT2c.All 5-HT2 receptors exhibit 46%-50%overall sequence identity,and all of these receptors preferentially bind to Gq/11 to increase inositol phosphates and intracellular calcium mobilization[5].5-HT2B receptors are widely expressed throughout the gut,and experimental evidence suggests that the primary function of 5-HT2B receptors is to mediate contractile responses to 5-HT through its action on smooth muscle[6].The 5-HT2B receptor is localized to both neurons of the myenteric nerve plexus and smooth muscle in the human colon.The 5-HT2B receptor mediates 5-HT-evoked contraction of longitudinal smooth muscle[6].These findings suggest that the 5-HT2B receptor could play an important role in modulating colonic motility,which could affect sensory signaling in the gut.Other laboratories have shown that the 5-HT2B receptor participates in the development of mechanical and formalin-induced hyperalgesia[7,8].A 5-HT2B receptor antagonist reduced 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid(TNBS)and stress-induced visceral hyperalgesia in rats[9,10].However,the role of the 5-HT2B receptor in IBS-D patients and in acetic acid-and wrap restraint-induced IBS-D rat models was not investigated.

Study on improving hematopoietic function of rats with blood deficiency syndrome by Shengxuebao mixture

Background:Shengxuebao mixture(SXBM)is a novel herbal drug approved by China State Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of Leukopenia and iron deficiency anemia caused by radiotherapy and chemotherapy.Methods:To explore the mechanism of SXBM in treating blood deficiency syndrome(BDS).Firstly,network pharmacology and in vivo experiments were used to screen candidate targets and important signaling pathways of SXBM,GO functional enrichment and KEGG pathway analysis were performed.Secondly,a BDS rat model was established to verify the results of the analysis of network pharmacological enrichment.Histopathology and routine peripheral blood examination were observed.The expressions of tumor necrosis factor-α,interleukin(IL)-6,HIF-1αand NF-κB were detected by Western blot,and the expressions of IL-6,IL-1βwere detected by ELISA.Results:62 bioactive components,66 potential targets and 131 signaling pathways of BDS were successfully identified by network pharmacology.Molecular docking simulation techniques showed that key targets tumor necrosis factor-α,IL-6,IL-1βcan dock well with crucial components,and the BDS-related signaling pathways HIF-1 and JAK-STAT play a vital role.The combined model experiment of acetylphenylhydrazine and cyclophosphamide showed that the model group had obvious blood deficiency,and the histopathology and blood routine were effectively restored after administration.Our findings indicate that SXBM’s therapeutic effect on BDS primarily involves the mediation of the HIF-1α/NF-κB signaling pathway and the regulation of hematopoietic factor expression.Conclusion:This study not only affirmed the protective properties of SXBM against BDS but also provided insights into a potential mechanism for blood replenishment in the treatment of BDS using SXBM.

系统性红斑狼疮患者应用靶向B细胞治疗后发生中枢神经系统病变文献病例分析

目的探讨系统性红斑狼疮(SLE)患者经靶向B淋巴细胞生物制剂治疗后发生中枢神经系统不良反应的临床特征。方法检索国内外相关数据库(截至2023年5月),收集系统性红斑狼疮患者经贝利尤单抗、利妥昔单抗治疗后发生中枢神经系统病变的病例报告类文献,提取患者的基本信息、贝利尤单抗或利妥昔单抗用药情况(用法用量、单用或联用、联用方案等)、中枢神经系统病变发生时间、临床表现、影像学特征、临床治疗及转归等,并进行描述统计分析。结果检索到进行性多灶性脑白质病(PML)患者14例,发病年龄(50.71±11.45)岁;可逆性后部脑病综合征(PRES)患者24例,发病年龄(30.67±14.93)岁。纳入有详细病例报道的患者共7例,7例患者均未合并HIV感染、恶性肿瘤及其他自身免疫性疾病。7例患者均经磁共振检查确诊,均未行脑组织活检。临床表现:癫痫5例,视物模糊或视力丧失3例,构音障碍或失语2例,头痛2例,昏迷1例,血压升高4例。最终7例患者中1例死亡。结论应用靶向B细胞治疗后,SLE患者中枢神经系统副作用多发生在疾病活动期且合并使用其他免疫抑制剂时。患者的临床表现容易与神经精神狼疮混淆,导致病情延误,提示在使用靶向B细胞生物制剂治疗时,应评估SLE患者发生中枢神经系统副作用的潜在风险。

Börjeson-Forssman-Lehmann综合征1例

Börjeson-Forssman-Lehmann综合征(Börjeson-Forssman-Lehmann syndrome,BFLS)是一种罕见的X连锁智力障碍性疾病,主要临床表现为智力障碍/全面发育落后、特殊面容、手指和足趾异常、性腺功能减退,女性患者多见线状皮肤色素沉着和牙齿异常,男性患者多见肥胖。中南大学湘雅医院儿科收治1例PHF6基因新发突变致BFLS病例。本例为11个月的女性患儿,临床表现为全面发育落后,特殊面容,头发稀疏,眼距增宽,鼻梁低平,耳屏前多毛,上唇薄,牙齿异常,舌系带过短,通贯掌,锥形指,双手小指弯曲,线样皮肤色素沉着斑。二代测序技术结果显示PHF6基因(NM_032458.3)存在新发c.346C>T(p.Arg116*)杂合突变,变异评级为致病性变异。随访期间患儿出现散光、斜视、清醒磨牙症、刻板行为,皮肤色素沉着颜色较前加深。本病目前尚无特异性治疗方法。

Association between hepatitis B and metabolic syndrome:Current state of the art

Chronic hepatitis B(CHB)is a global health issue that increases the risk of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma in infected patients.Metabolic syndrome(Met S)is a disease endemic mostly to the developed countries.It is associated with high cardiovascular mortality and morbidity,diabetes mellitus as well as cancer.In this manuscript,we systematically review the published data on the relationship between Met S and CHB infection.Multiple studies have described highly variable correlations between CHB on one hand and Met S,non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and dyslipidemia on the other.No association between CHB and diabetes mellitus or atherosclerosis has been described as of now.The presence of Met S in patients infected with hepatitis B virus increases the risk of fibrosis,cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.Appropriate lifestyle,but also pharmacological interventions are needed to prevent the development of these complications.

TLR4 upregulates CBS expression through NF-κB activation in a rat model of irritable bowel syndrome with chronic visceral hypersensitivity

AIM:To investigate the roles of toll-like receptor 4(TLR4) and nuclear factor(NF)-κB on cystathionine βsynthetase(CBS) expression and visceral hypersensitivity in rats.METHODS:This study used 1-7-wk-old male SpragueDawley rats.Western blot analysis was employed to measure the expression of TLR4,NF-kB and the endogenous hydrogen sulfide-producing enzyme CBS in colon dorsal root ganglia(DRG) from control and "irritable bowel syndrome" rats induced by neonatal colonic inflammation(NCI).Colon-specific DRG neurons were labeled with Dil and acutely dissociated to measure excitability with patch-clamp techniques.Immunofluorescence was employed to determine the co-expression of TLR4,NF-kB and CBS in Dil-labeled DRG neurons.RESULTS:NCI significantly upregulated the expression of TLR4 in colon-related DRGs(0.34 ± 0.12 vs 0.72 ±0.02 for the control and NCI groups,respectively,P <0.05).Intrathecal administration of the TLR4-selective inhibitor CLI-095 significantly enhanced the colorectal distention threshold of NCI rats.CLI-095 treatment also markedly reversed the hyperexcitability of colonspecific DRG neurons and reduced the expression of CBS(1.7 ± 0.1 vs 1.1 ± 0.04,p < 0.05) and of the NF-kB subunit p65(0.8 ± 0.1 vs 0.5 ± 0.1,P< 0.05).Furthermore,the NF-KB-selective inhibitor pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate(PDTC) significantly reduced the upregulation of CBS(1.0 ± 0.1 vs 0.6 ± 0.1,P< 0.05)and attenuated visceral hypersensitivity in the NCI rats.In vitro,incubation of cultured DRG neurons with the TLR4 agonist lipopolysaccharide significantly enhanced the expression of p65(control vs 8 h:0.9 ± 0.1 vs1.3 ± 0.1;control vs 12 h:0.9 ± 0.1 vs 1.3 ± 0.1,P< 0.05;control vs 24 h:0.9 ± 0.1 vs 1.6 ± 0.1,P <0.01) and CBS(control vs 12 h:1.0 ± 0.1 vs 2.2 ±0.4;control vs 24 h:1.0 ± 0.1 vs 2.6 ± 0.1,P< 0.05),whereas the inhibition of p65 via pre-incubation with PDTC significantly reversed the upregulation of CBS expression(1.2 ± 0.1 vs 0.6 ± 0.0,P< 0.01).CONCLUSION:Our results suggest that the activation of TLR4 by NCI upregulates CBS expression,which is mediated by the NF-kB signaling pathway,thus contributing to visceral hypersensitivity.

Clinical Value of Serum Anti-Mullerian Hormone and Inhibin B in Prediction of Ovarian Response in Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

The present study aimed to investigate the clinical value of serum anti-mullerian hormone（AMH） and inhibin B（INHB） in predicting the ovarian response of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome（PCOS）. A total of 120 PCOS patients were enrolled and divided into three groups in terms of the ovarian response： a low-response group（n=36）, a normal-response group（n=44）, and a high-response group（n=40）. The serum AMH and INHB levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay（ELISA）. The follicle stimulating hormone（FSH）, luteinizing hormone（LH）, and estradiol（E2） levels were determined by chemiluminescence microparticle immunoassay. The correlation of the serum AMH and INHB levels with other indicators was analyzed. A receiver operating characteristic（ROC） curve was established to analyze the prediction of ovarian response by AMH and INHB. The results showed that there were significant differences in age, body mass index（BMI）, FSH, total gonadotropin-releasing hormone（Gn RH）, LH, E2, and antral follicle counts（AFCs） between the groups（P〈0.05）. The serum AMH and INHB levels were increased significantly with the ovarian response of PCOS patients increasing（P〈0.05）. The serum AMH and INHB levels were negatively correlated with the age, BMI, FSH level, Gn, and E2 levels（P〈0.05）. They were positively correlated with the LH levels and AFCs（P〈0.05）. ROC curve analysis of serum AMH and INHB in prediction of a low ovarian response showed that the area under the ROC curve（AUC） value of the serum AMH level was 0.817, with a cut-off value of 1.29 ng/m L. The sensitivity and specificity were 71.2% and 79.6%, respectively. The AUC value of serum INHB was 0.674, with a cut-off value of 38.65 ng/m L, and the sensitivity and specificity were 50.7% and 74.5%, respectively. ROC curve analysis showed when the serum AMH and INHB levels were used to predict a high ovarian response, the AUC value of the serum AMH level was 0.742, with a cut-off value of 2.84 ng/m L, and the sensitivity and specificity were 72.7% and 65.9%, respectively; the AUC value of the serum INHB level was 0.551 with a cut-off of 45.76 ng/m L, and the sensitivity and specificity were 76.3% and 40.2%, respectively. It was suggested the serum AMH and INHB levels have high clinical value in predicting the ovarian response of PCOS patients.

弥漫大B细胞淋巴瘤初诊时合并噬血细胞综合征的临床特征与预后分析

目的:比较弥漫大B细胞淋巴瘤初诊时合并噬血细胞综合征(HPS)与不合并HPS患者的临床特征和预后差异。方法:回顾性分析2012年1月至2021年12月就诊甘肃省人民医院的45例弥漫大B细胞淋巴瘤患者的临床资料,按初诊时是否伴HPS分为合并HPS组(15例)和不合并HPS组(30例),比较两组患者临床特征及预后差异,并应用Kaplan-Meier法进行生存分析。结果:合并HSP组的患者多以发热、血细胞减少、脾大为突出表现;所有患者铁蛋白、可溶性CD25水平升高;66.67%的患者纤维蛋白原水平降低,53.33%的患者甘油三酯水平升高,80.00%的患者出现骨髓噬血现象。与不合并HSP组相比,合并HSP组的进展期(Ann Arbor分期Ⅲ/Ⅳ期)患者和乳酸脱氢酶≥240 U/L患者所占比例较高(均P<0.05)。合并HSP组中位生存时间为8.0个月,而不合并HSP组的中位生存时间为45.5个月,比较差异有统计学意义(P<0.001)。结论:弥漫大B细胞淋巴瘤初诊时合并HPS的患者与不合并HPS的患者相比,Ann Arbor分期晚、乳酸脱氢酶水平高,总体生存时间较短。

Creation of two hyperactive variants of phytochrome B1 for attenuating shade avoidance syndrome in maize

Increasing the planting density of maize is an effective measure to improve its yield.However,plants under high planting density tend to trigger shade avoidance syndrome(SAS),reducing lodging resistance and ultimately yield drop.Phytochrome B(phyB)plays a dominant role in mediating shade avoidance response.This study constructed two hyperactive mutated alleles of maize PHYB1:ZmPHYB1^(Y98F)(mimicking Y104F of AtPHYB)and ZmPHYB1^(Y359F)(mimicking Y361F of AtPHYB).Ectopic expression of ZmPHYB1^(Y98F) and ZmPHYB1^(Y359F) under the control of the ZmPHYB1 promoter in the Arabidopsis phyB-9 background rendered enhanced activity on complementing the phyB-9 related phenotypes compared with ZmPHYB1^(WT).Moreover,similar to the behavior of ZmPHYB1^(WT),ZmPHYB1Y98F and ZmPHYB1^(Y359F) proteins are localized to the nucleus after red light exposure,and could interact with PIF proteins of maize.In addition,expression of ZmPHYB1^(Y98F) and ZmPHYB1^(Y359F) variants under the control of the native ZmPHYB1 promoter attenuated SAS of maize seedlings subjected to simulated shade treatment.It effectively reduced mature maize’s plant height and ear height in field conditions.The results combined demonstrate the utility of ZmPHYB1^(Y98F) and ZmPHYB1^(Y359F) for attenuating SAS and breeding high density-tolerant varieties of maize.

Novel roles of lipopolysaccharide and TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in inflammatory response to liver injury in Budd-Chiari syndrome

BACKGROUND Budd-Chiari syndrome(BCS)is an uncommon disorder characterized by obstruction of hepatic venous outflow.To date,the exact mechanism underlying hepatic injury derived from the hepatic venous outflow obstruction in BCS remains largely unknown.AIM To assess the role of NF-κB-mediated inflammation in BCS-induced liver injury in humans and rats.METHODS A total of 180 rats were randomly assigned into nine groups,including four BCS model groups(1,3,6 and 12 wk),four sham-operated groups(1,3,6 and 12 wk),and a control group.Lipopolysaccharide(LPS)levels in each group were detected by the Tachypleus Amebocyte Lysate assay.The mRNA and protein levels of TLR4,NF-κB,tumor necrosis factor(TNF)-α,interleukin(IL)-2 and interferon(IFN)-γwere quantified.In addition,60 patients with BCS and 30 healthy controls were enrolled,and their blood samples were analyzed.RESULTS Hepatic and plasma LPS levels were significantly increased in rats.The mRNA and protein expression levels of TLR4,NF-κB and inflammatory cytokines(TNF-α,IL-2 and IFN-γ)in liver tissues were significantly higher in the BCS model groups compared with the other two groups.In addition,the model groups(1,3,6 and 12 wk after BCS induction)showed significant differences in the levels of LPS,TLR4,NF-κB,TNF-α,IL-2 and IFN-γ.Notably,there was a significant correlation between the LPS concentrations and mRNA and protein levels of TLR4,NF-κB and inflammatory cytokines.Importantly,it was revealed that the levels of LPS,TLR4,NF-κB and inflammatory cytokines were significantly greater in chronic BCS patients than healthy controls and acute BCS patients.CONCLUSION LPS level is markedly elevated in BCS,in turn activating the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway,leading to induction of inflammatory cytokines(TNF-α,IL-2 and IFN-γ)in response to BCS-induced liver injury.

颗粒蛋白前体对脓毒症急性肺损伤小鼠肺组织核转录因子-κB的表达的影响

目的:探讨颗粒蛋白前体(progranulin,PGRN)对脓毒症急性肺损伤(acute lung injury,ALI)的影响及可能机制。方法:将C57BL/6小鼠随机分为对照组(Control组)、急性肺损伤组(CLP组)、颗粒蛋白前体治疗组(CLP+PGRN组)。采用盲肠结扎穿刺术(cecal ligation and puncture,CLP)构建小鼠脓毒症ALI模型,CLP+PGRN组在CLP处理半小时后使用PGRN腹腔注射。24 h后麻醉并处死小鼠,取小鼠肺HE染色观察肺组织病理损伤;TUNEL法检测肺部细胞凋亡情况;免疫荧光染色检测肺组织中核转录因子-κB(nuclear factor kappa B,NF-κB)水平;Western blot法检测NF-κB、总p65和磷酸化p65表达水平;RT-qPCR检测NF-κB和炎症细胞因子水平。结果:和Control组相比,CLP组和CLP+PGRN组肺损伤加重,促炎细胞因子升高,肺组织中细胞凋亡增加,NF-κB、p65和p-p65的表达水平明显增加;与CLP组相比,CLP+PGRN组肺组织损伤和凋亡减轻,促炎细胞因子降低,抑炎细胞因子升高,NF-κB、p65和p-p65的表达明显减少。结论:PGRN可以减轻脓毒症小鼠急性肺损伤,其机制可能与抑制NF-κB、p65表达和p65磷酸化有关。

肺表面活性物质蛋白-B缺陷与足月新生儿呼吸窘迫综合征的相关性研究

目的探讨肺表面活性物质蛋白(surfactant protein,SP)-B缺陷与足月儿新生儿呼吸窘迫综合征(neonatal respiratory distress syndrome,NRDS)的相关性。方法2019年7月至2023年6月,在解放军总医院第七医学中心等4家医院开展研究。NRDS组纳入因患NRDS死亡的足月新生儿60例;对照组纳入同期因其他原因手术后死亡的足月、非NRDS患儿60例。采集胸部X线片结果。新生儿死亡后30 min内进行支气管肺泡灌洗、肺组织取材,采用蛋白质印迹法检测SP-B表达。统计学方法采用χ^(2)检验。结果NRDS组患儿生后出现严重高碳酸血症和低氧血症,采用外源性肺表面活性物质、有创高频振荡通气呼吸支持、一氧化氮治疗降低肺动脉高压等综合治疗措施,10例接受体外膜肺氧合治疗,均治疗无效死亡。NRDS组的X线胸片均显示白肺。NRDS组患儿支气管肺泡灌洗液中SP-B单体(分子质量8 ku)及二聚体(分子质量16~18 ku)表达阳性的比例均明显低于对照组[8 ku:75.0%(45/60)与100.0%(60/60),χ^(2)=17.143;16~18 ku:73.3%(44/60)与100.0%(60/60),χ^(2)=18.462;P值均<0.001];NRDS组肺组织中SP-B分子质量8 ku及16~18 ku表达阳性的比例也明显低于对照组[8 ku:75.0%(45/60)与100.0%(60/60),χ^(2)=17.143;16~18 ku:70.0%(42/60)与100.0%(60/60),χ^(2)=21.176;P值均<0.001]。NRDS组筛出SP-B缺陷个体15例,对照组仅1例,NRDS组SP-B缺陷的比例高于对照组[25.0%(15/60)与1.7%(1/60),χ^(2)=14.135,P<0.001]。结论SP-B缺陷与足月儿NRDS发病存在一定的相关性。

Association of HLA-B*1502 and*1511 Allele with Antiepileptic Drug-induced Stevens-Johnson Syndrome in Central China

Previous studies have demonstrated a strong association between carbamazepine（CBZ）-induced Stevens-Johnson syndrome（SJS） and HLA-B 1502 in Han Chinese. Here, we extended the study of HLA-B 1502 susceptibility to two different antiepileptic drugs, oxcarbazepine（OXC） and phenobabital（PB）. In addition, we genotyped HLA-B 1511 in a case of CBZ-induced SJS with genotype negative for HLA-B 1502. The presence of HLA-B 1502 was determined using polymerase chain reaction with sequence-specific primers（PCR-SSP）. Moreover, we genotyped HLA-B 1502 in 17 cases of antiepileptic drugs（AEDs）-induced cutaneous adverse drug reactions（cADRs）, in comparison with AEDs-tolerant（n=32） and normal controls（n=38） in the central region of China. The data showed that HLA-B 1502 was positive in 5 of 6 cases of AEDs-induced SJS（4 CBZ, 1 OXC and 1 PB）, which was significantly more frequent than AEDs-tolerant（2/32, 18 CBZ, 6 PB and 8 OXC） and normal controls（3/38）. Compared with AEDs-tolerant and normal controls, the OR for patients carrying the HLA-B 1502 with AEDs-induced SJS was 6.25（95% CI： 1.06–36.74） and 4.86（95% CI： 1.01–23.47）. The sensitivity and specificity of HLA-B 1502 for prediction of AEDs-induced SJS were 71.4%. The sensitivity and specificity of HLA-B 1502 for prediction of CBZ-induced SJS were 60% and 94%. HLA-B 1502 was not found in 11 children with maculopapular exanthema（MPE）（n=9） and hypersensitivity syndrome（HSS）（n=2）. However, we also found one case of CBZ-induced SJS who was negative for HLA-B 1502 but carried HLA-B 1511. It was suggested that the association between the CBZ-induced SJS and HLA-B 1502 allele in Han Chinese children can extend to other aromatic AEDs including OXC and PB related SJS. HLA-B 1511 may be a risk factor for some patients with CBZ-induced SJS negative for HLA-B 1502.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease:An early mediator predicting metabolic syndrome in obese children?

AIM:To investigate if non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an early mediator for prediction of metabolic syndrome,and if liver B-ultrasound can be used for its diagnosis.METHODS:We classified 861 obese children (6-16 years old) into three subgroups:group 0 (normal liver in ultrasound and normal transaminases);group 1 (fatty liver in ultrasound and normal transaminases);and group 2 (fatty liver in ultrasound and elevated transaminases).We measured the body mass index,waist and hip circumference,blood pressure,fasting blood glucose,insulin,homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR),whole-body insulin sensitivity index (WBISI),lipid profile and transaminases in all the participants.The risk of developing metabolic syndrome (MS) was assessed according to the degree of liver fatty infiltration based on the B-ultrasound examination.RESULTS:Among the 861 obese children,587 (68.18%) were classified as having NAFLD,and 221 (25.67%) as having MS.The prevalence of MS in NAFLD children (groups 1 and 2) was 37.64% (221/587),which was much higher than that in non-NAFLD group (group 0,12.04%) (P < 0.01).There were significantly higher incidences concerning every component of MS in group 2 compared with group 0 (P < 0.05).The incidence of NAFLD in MS patients was 84.61% (187/221),which was significantly higher than that of hypertension (57.46%,127/221) and glucose metabolic anomalies (22.62%,50/221),and almost equal to the prevalence of dyslipidemia (89.14%,197/221).Based on the B-ultrasound scales,the presence of moderate and severe liver fatty infiltration carried a high risk of hypertension [odds ratio (OR):2.18,95% confidence interval (95% CI):1.27-3.75],dyslipidemia (OR:7.99,95% CI:4.34-14.73),impaired fasting glucose (OR:3.65,95% CI:1.04-12.85),and whole MS (OR:3.77;95% CI:1.90-7.47,P < 0.01).The state of insulin resistance (calculated by HOMA-IR and WBISI) deteriorated as the degree of fatty infiltration increased.CONCLUSION:NAFLD is not only a liver disease,but also an early mediator that reflects metabolic disorder,and liver B-ultrasound can be a useful tool for MS screening.

Manifestation of severe pneumonia in anti-PL-7 antisynthetase syndrome and B cell lymphoma:A case report

BACKGROUND Antisynthetase syndrome(ASS)is characterized by the presence of antisynthetase antibodies coupled with clinical findings such as fever,polymyositis-dermatomyositis and interstitial lung disease.It is,however,rare to observe ASS association with B cell lymphoma presenting severe pneumonia as the first clinical manifestation.CASE SUMMARY We evaluated a 59-year-old male patient who presented with cough with sputum,shortness of breath and fever for 13 d.A chest computed tomography radiograph revealed bilateral diffuse ground-glass infiltrates in both upper fields,left lingual lobe and right middle lobe.Initially,the patient was diagnosed with severe community-acquired pneumonia and respiratory failure.He was empirically treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics,without improvement.Further analysis showed an ASS panel with anti-PL7 antibodies.Besides,electromyography evaluation demonstrated a manifestation of myogenic damage,while deltoid muscle biopsy showed irregular muscle fiber bundles especially abnormal lymphocyte infiltration.In addition,bone marrow biopsy revealed high invasive B cell lymphoma.Thus,the patient was diagnosed with a relatively rare anti–PL7 antibody positive ASS associated with B cell lymphoma.CONCLUSION This case highlights that rapidly progressive lung lesions and acute hypoxemic respiratory failure associated with heliotrope rash and extremely high lactate dehydrogenase level should be considered as the characteristics of non-infectious diseases,especially ASS and B cell lymphoma.

茯苓甘草合剂辅助西药对慢性阻塞性肺疾病合并肌肉衰减患者NF-κB信号通路的影响

目的探讨茯苓甘草合剂辅助西药对慢性阻塞性肺疾病(COPD)合并肌肉衰减NF-κB信号通路的影响及分子机制。方法选取2020年8月至2022年8月COPD合并肌肉衰减患者104例,作为研究对象随机数字表法分为对照组和观察组,每组52例。对照组给予西药治疗,观察组给予西药+茯苓甘草合剂治疗。统计2组中医疗效、不良反应及治疗前后中医证候积分、NF-κB mRNA、蛋白及因子[白细胞介素-8(IL-8)、白细胞介素-1(IL-1)、肿瘤坏死因子-α(TNF-α)]、营养状况指标[转铁蛋白(Tf)、血红蛋白(Hb)、白蛋白(ALB)]、肌肉衰减相关指标[握力试验、起立-行走计时测试(TUGT)、5次坐立试验(FTSST)、肌少症筛查问卷(SARC-F)]。结果观察组中医治疗总有效率[86.54%(45/52)]高于对照组[67.31%(35/52)](P<0.05);治疗1个月、3个月后观察组中医证候积分低于对照组(P<0.05);治疗1个月、3个月后观察组NF-κB mRNA、NF-κB蛋白、IL-8、IL-1、TNF-α低于对照组(P<0.05);治疗3个月后观察组握力高于对照组,FTSST、TUGT、SARC-F评分低于对照组(P<0.05);治疗期间,2组均未出现明显不良反应。结论茯苓甘草合剂辅助西药治疗COPD合并肌肉衰减效果确切,可通过抑制NF-κB信号通路,减轻炎性反应,改善患者营养状态,有效改善临床症状,且安全性高。

Chronic hepatitis B-associated liver disease in the context of human immunodeficiency virus co-infection and underlying metabolic syndrome

Globally,a shift in the epidemiology of chronic liver disease has been observed.This has been mainly driven by a marked decline in the prevalence of chronic hepatitis B virus infection(CHB),with the greatest burden restricted to the Western Pacific and sub-Saharan African regions.Amidst this is a growing burden of metabolic syndrome(MetS)worldwide.A disproportionate co-burden of human immunodeficiency virus(HIV)infection is also reported in sub-Saharan Africa,which poses a further risk of liver-related morbidity and mortality in the region.We reviewed the existing evidence base to improve current understanding of the effect of underlying MetS on the development and progression of chronic liver disease during CHB and HIV co-infection.While the mechanistic association between CHB and MetS remains poorly resolved,the evidence suggests that MetS may have an additive effect on the liver damage caused by CHB.Among HIV infected individuals,MetS-associated liver disease is emerging as an important cause of non-AIDS related morbidity and mortality despite antiretroviral therapy(ART).It is plausible that underlying MetS may lead to adverse outcomes among those with concomitant CHB and HIV co-infection.However,this remains to be explored through rigorous longitudinal studies,especially in sub-Saharan Africa.Ultimately,there is a need for a comprehensive package of care that integrates ART programs with routine screening for MetS and promotion of lifestyle modification to ensure an improved quality of life among CHB and HIV coinfected individuals.

Human Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells inhibit cytokine storm in acute respiratory distress syndrome in a rat model

Objective:To evaluate the potential effect of human Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells(hWJMSCs)on acute respiratory distress syndrome in lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced rats.Methods:The hWJMSCs(5×10^(4)/mL,5×10^(5)/mL,5×10^(6)/mL)were administered to rats on day 1 and day 8 after being induced by LPS(5 mg/kg body weight).TNF-αlevels in the lung and IL-18 and IL-1βlevels in the serum were measured using ELISA.In addition,caspase-1 expression in lung tissues was quantified using qRT-PCR,and NF-κB and IL-6 expressions were assessed using immunohistochemistry.Results:The hWJMSCs decreased TNF-αlevels in the lung and plasma IL-18 and IL-1βlevels.Moreover,the hWJMSCs downregulated the expressions of caspase-1,IL-6,and NF-κB in lung tissues.Conclusions:The hWJMSCs can decrease inflammatory markers of acute respiratory distress syndrome in a rat model and may be further investigated for the treatment of acute respiratory distress syndrome.

Two novel mutations in the VPS33B gene in a Chinese patient with arthrogryposis,renal dysfunction and cholestasis syndrome 1:A case report

BACKGROUND The VPS33B(OMIM:608552)gene is located on chromosome 15q26.1.We found a female infant with autosomal recessive arthrogryposis,renal dysfunction and cholestasis syndrome 1(ARCS1)caused by mutation in VPS33B.The child was diagnosed with ARCS1(OMIM:208085)after the whole exome sequencing revealed two heterozygous mutations(c.96+1G>C,c.242delT)in the VPS33B gene.CASE SUMMARY We report a Chinese female infant with neonatal cholestasis disorder,who was eventually diagnosed with ARCS1 by genetic analysis.Genetic testing revealed two new mutations(c.96+1G>C and c.242delT)in VPS33B,which is the causal gene.The patient was compound heterozygous,and her parents were both heterozygous.CONCLUSION This study extends the mutational spectrum of the VPS33B gene to provide a molecular basis for the etiological diagnosis of ARCS1 and for genetic counseling of the family.