Visual resolution under photopic and mesopic conditions in patients with Sjogren's syndrome

AIM:To focus on different visual resolution tasks under photopic and mesopic conditions in Sjogren’s syndrome patients compared to age-matched healthy controls.METHODS:The visual resolution measurements included high and low visual acuities and contrast sensitivity functions.These tests were conducted under photopic and then mesopic conditions.Twenty-one Sjögren’s syndrome patients and 21 aged-matched healthy volunteers completed all the measurements in this study.RESULTS:Sjogren’s syndrome patients have greater impairment in contrast sensitivity than standardized visual acuity.This reduction was significant under the mesopic condition.Also,Sjogren’s syndrome patients treated with pilocarpine suffer more than patients without pilocarpine treatment under low light conditions.CONCLUSION:Sjogren’s syndrome patients shows greater impairment in different visual resolution tasks due to dry eye symptoms.

Comparison of the meibomian gland dysfunction in patients with chronic ocular graft-versus-host disease and Sjogren's syndrome

AIM: To investigate the abnormalities in the meibomian gland in patients with dry eye disease(DED) associated with chronic ocular graft-versus-host disease(coGVHD) in comparison with Sj?gren's syndrome(SS), a major form of aqueous deficient DED and meibomian gland dysfunction(MGD), a common cause of evaporative DED.METHODS: A total 135 eyes of 135 subjects included in this study: patients with DED associated with coGVHD(n=30), patients with SS(n=35), patients with MGD(n=35), and normal controls(n=35). All participants completed the Ocular Surface Disease Index(OSDI) questionnaire, ocular surface examination [Schirmer test, tear film breakup time(TFBUT), and ocular surface staining], and meibomian gland assessment [meiboscore(gland dropout detected on meibography using infrared camera of the Keratograph 5 M), meibum expressibility score(MES), meibum quality score(MQS), lid margin abnormality]. In addition, correlations of meibomian gland characteristics with ocular surface parameters as well as disease severity score were investigated in coGVHD group.RESULTS: The coGVHD group showed significantly higher meiboscore, MES, and MQS than the other 3 groups(all P<0.05). In the coGVHD group, parameters of meibomian gland showed a significant correlation each other and those of ocular surface. The correlation between meibomian gland parameters and severity score of co GVHD was also established(meiboscore, r=0.62; MES, r=0.47; MQS, r=0.47; lid margin abnormality score, r=0.55; all P<0.05).CONCLUSION: Patients with DED associated with co GVHD show poorer gland morphology and worse glandfunction than other types of DED. In addition, meibomian gland damage is not only associated with ocular surface damage but also disease severity of coGVHD.

Serum-negative Sjogren's syndrome with minimal lesion nephropathy as the initial presentation:A case report

BACKGROUND Primary Sjogren's syndrome(pSS)is an autoimmune disease,and renal involvement has been considered to be one of the systemic complications of pSS.Patients who have sjogren's syndrome with renal disease as the first manifestation and no exocrine gland involvement or autoantibodies can be missed clinically.CASE SUMMARY We here in report an unusual case of a primary Sjogren's syndrome in a 43-yearold female who had minimal lesion nephropathy as the initial presentation,and the patient was negative for serum anti-SSA and anti-SSB antibodies and did not have signs of exocrine gland involvement.The patient’s Sjogren's syndrome was confirmed by a minor salivary gland biopsy(MSGB)and a filter paper test.the patient’s oedema subsided,and the patient’s urinary protein resolved,showing that the treatment was effective.CONCLUSION MSGB should be considered if pSS is suspected in patients who do not have the typical pSS symptoms or who are positive for the specific autoantibodies.

Subclavian steal syndrome associated with Sjogren's syndrome: A case report

BACKGROUND Subclavian steal syndrome(SSS)caused by Sjogren's syndrome is rare,especially for elderly patients with risk factors for atherosclerosis.The current report presents the uncommon etiology and treatment of SSS,aiming to improve doctor’s clinical experience.CASE SUMMARY A 69-year-old man was diagnosed with hypertension and acute cerebral infarction presenting with left upper limb weakness and pain even gradually aggravating to left limb hemiplegia 30 years ago.He was managed with antihypertensive and antithrombotic therapy;however,his condition was recurrent,and he never had any further examination.It was found that the difference of the bilateral upper arm systolic pressure was over 20 mmHg,and Doppler examination showed that the blood flow of the left vertebral artery was reversed,suggesting SSS.Further tests revealed a benign lymphoepithelial lesion in salivary gland tissue,confirming the Sjogren's syndrome.CONCLUSION The patient was found to have hypertension when he was 33 years old,and the blood pressure of both sides was asymmetric,which was ignored.The patient's symptoms of dizziness and upper limb weakness were misdiagnosed as general cerebral infarction.It is necessary to test the aorta computed tomography angiography to prove secondary hypertension factors such as Sjogren's syndrome.

Meta analysis of efficacy and safety of traditional Chinese medicine combined with hydroxychloroquine sulfate in the treatment of Sjogren's syndrome

Objective:To systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of traditional Chinese medicine combined with hydroxychloroquine sulfate in the treatment of Sjogren's Syndrome(SS).Methods:Two researchers searched the databases of Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure(CNKI),Wanfang Database,Weipu Database,Chinese Biomedical Literature Database,PubMed Database,Web of science Database and The Cochrane Library Database(the retrieval period is from the establishment of the database to October 2020)and screened the literatures independently.The data were extracted for bias risk assessment,and then meta-analysis was performed using Revman 5.3 software.Results:A total of 19 articles involving 1185 patients were included,including 617 cases in the treatment group and 568 cases in the control group.Combined data analysis showed that the total effective rate of traditional Chinese medicine combined with hydroxychloroquine sulfate in the treatment of Sjogren's syndrome was significantly higher than that of hydroxychloroquine sulfate alone[R R=1.34,95%CI(1.24,1.44),P<0.00001].The improvement of salivary gland[SMD=0.66,95%CI(0.47,0.85),P<0.00001],tear secretion function[MD=2.56,95%CI(1.29,3.83),P<0.0001]and reducing CRP[MD=-3.53,95%CI(-3.93,-3.14),P<0.00001],ESR[MD=-5.80,95%CI(-8.48,-3.13),P<0.00001]were better than those of the control group.However,there was no significant difference in the reduction of IgG and the incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups.Conclusion:Traditional Chinese medicine combined with hydroxychloroquine sulfate in the treatment of SS is superior to the control group in total effective rate,improvement of salivary gland and tear secretion function,and reduction of CRP and ESR,and we didn’t see the significantly increase on the adverse event.However,due to the small sample size and low quality of the included studies,the conclusion needs to be verified by larger sample and higher quality randomized controlled trials.

Study on the correlation between TCM syndrome differentiation and immune inflammation index of Sjogren's syndrome

Objective:To observe the relationship between the distribution of TCM Syndromes of primary Sjogren's syndrome(pSS)and the changes of erythrocyte sedimentation rate(ESR),C-reactive protein(CRP),tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α),interleukin-6(IL-6),immunoglobulin IgA,IgG and IgM.Methods:157 diagnosed PSS patients were divided into dampness heat obstructing collaterals syndrome,dryness evil invading lung syndrome,Qi blood stasis syndrome,liver kidney yin deficiency syndrome and Qi Yin deficiency syndrome according to TCM syndrome differentiation standard.The age,course of disease,general health score in international universal quality of life scale,self rating Anxiety scale(SAS),self rating Depression Scale(SDS)and erythrocyte sedimentation rate were observed and detected(ESR,C-reactive protein(CRP),tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α),interleukin-6(IL-6),immunoglobulin IgA,IgG and IgM and other immune inflammatory indexes were detected.The relationship between different TCM Syndromes of PSS and molecular level changes of immune inflammatory indexes was analyzed and compared,as well as the impact on quality of life and mental emotion.Results:The overall health score of patients with Qi Yin deficiency syndrome was significantly lower than that of patients with dampness heat obstructing collaterals and dampness evil invading lung syndrome(P<0.01),while the SAS and SDS scores of patients with Qi Yin deficiency syndrome were significantly higher than those of patients with dampness heat invading lung syndrome and dampness heat obstructing collaterals syndrome(P<0.05,P<0.01);ESR,CRP,RF,TNF-α,IL-6,IgA,IgG and IgM related laboratory indexes of patients with dampness heat obstructing collaterals syndrome were significantly higher than those of patients with dry evil invading lung syndrome,liver kidney yin deficiency syndrome and liver kidney yin deficiency syndrome Qi Yin deficiency syndrome and Qi blood stasis syndrome(P<0.05,P<0.01).Correlation test found that the above five syndrome types were positively correlated with hs-CRP,IL-6,TNF-ɑindicators(P<0.05).Conclusion:The overall health,SAS,SDS and related hs-CRP,IL-6,TNF-ɑand some others indexes of SS patients are associated with TCM syndromes.

Treatment of Sjogren's Syndrome with Liver Depression

Liu Chunying is a famous old Chinese medicine doctor for more than 30 years.He has rich experience in the understanding and treatment of Sjogren's syndrome(SS).Liu Shi systematically discusses the etiology and pathogenesis of SS from the angle of liver depression.In the treatment,it is emphasized that"Muyu Da Zhi"is the first,with the addition and subtraction of the disease,to provide a new idea for the treatment of Sjogren's syndrome from liver depression,and to attach a test case.

Research progress on BDNF in Sjogren's syndrome with depressive disorder

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor(BDNF)is a widely studied neurotrophic factor,which plays an important role in the growth,development,dif-ferentiation,injury,repair,survival and apoptosis of nerve cells.More and more studies have found that there is a high prevalence of depressive disorders in patients with autoimmune diseases.Sjogren's syndrome is a chronic autoimmune exocrine disease characterized by lympho-cytic infiltration and exocrine gland destruction.Depres-sive disorders are common in patients with Sjogren's syndrome.The quality of life of patients with Sjogren's syndrome with depression was generally lower than that of patients with Sjogren's syndrome without depres-sion.In this article,we reviewed the research progress of BDNF and depression in Sjogren's syndrome at home and abroad.

Comparison of corneal biomechanics in Sjogren's syndrome and non-Sjogren's syndrome dry eyes by Scheimpflug based device

AIM：To compare the corneal biomechanics of Sj？gren＇s syndrome（SS） and non-SS dry eyes with Corneal Visualization Scheimpflug Technology（CorV is ST）.METHODS：Corneal biomechanics and tear film parameters, namely the Schirmer I test value, tear film break-up time（TBUT） and corneal staining score（CSS） were detected in 34 eyes of 34 dry eye patients with SS（SSDE group） and 34 dry eye subjects without SS（NSSDE group） using CorV is ST. The differences of the above parameters between the two groups were examined, and the relationship between corneal biomechanics and tear film parameters were observed. RESULTS：The differences in age, sex, intraocular pressure（IOP） and central corneal thickness（CCT） were not significant between the two groups（P〉0.05）. The tear film parameters had significant differences between the SSDE group and NSSDE group（all P〈0.05）. Patients in the SSDE group had significantly lower A1-time and HC-time, but higher DA（P=0.01, 0.02, and 0.02, respectively） compared with the NSSDE group. In the SSDE group, DA was negatively correlated with TBUT（rho=-0.38, P=0.03）; HC-time was negatively correlated with CSS（rho=-0.43, P=0.02）. In the NSSDE group, HC-time was again negatively correlated with CSS（rho=-0.39, P=0.02）.CONCLUSION：There are differences in corneal biomechanical properties between SSDE and NSSDE. The cornea of SSDE tends to show less ＂stiffness＂, as seen by a significantly shorter A1-time and HC-time, but larger DA, compared with the cornea of NSSDE. Biomechanical parameters can be influenced by different tear film parameters in both groups.

Higher frequency of brain abnormalities in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder patients without primary Sjogren's syndrome

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder often co-exists with primary Sjogreffs syndrome. We compared the clinical features of 16 neuro- myelitis optica spectrum disorder patients with （n = 6） or without primary Sjogreffs syndrome （n = 10）. All patients underwent extensive clinical, laboratory, and MRI evaluations. There were no statistical differences in demographics or first neurological involvement at onset between neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder patients with and without primary Sjogren＇s syndrome. The laboratory findings of cerebrospinal fluid oligoclonal banding, serum C-reactive protein, antinudear autoantibody, anti-Sjogren＇s-syndrome-related antigen A an- tibodies, anti-Sjogren＇s-syndrome-related antigen B antibodies, and anti-Sm antibodies were significantly higher in patients with primary Sjogren＇s syndrome than those without. Anti-aquaporin 4 antibodies were detectable in 67% （4/6） of patients with primary Sjogren＇s syndrome and in 60% （6/10） of patients without primary Sj6gren＇s syndrome. More brain abnormalities were observed in patients without primary Sj6gren＇s syndrome than in those with primary Sj6gren＇s syndrome. Segments lesions （〉 3 centrum） were noted in 50% （5/10） of patients without primary Sj6gren＇s syndrome and in 67% （4/6） of patients with primary Sjogren＇s syndrome. These findings indicate that the clinical characteristics of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder patients with and without primary Sjogren＇s syndrome are similar. However, neu- romyelitis optica spectrum disorder patients without primary Sjogreffs syndrome have a high frequency of brain abnormalities.

Study on immunological characteristics of T lymphocyte in peripheral blood from patients with sjogren's syndrome

Objective: To study on in immunological characteristics of T lymphocyte in peripheral blood from patients with Sjogren's syndrome (SS), provide the theory basis for the further research of Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) targeted therapy.Methods:T lymphocyte subsets in peripheral blood from SS, RA and normal control groups were tested with various monocbnal antibodies and multicolor flow cytometry.T lymphocyte subsets were tested in peripheral blood from SS patients of different TCM Syndromes. The relationship between T Lymphocyte subsets and disease activity was measured by erythrocyte sedimentation rate (SR)and serum IgG. Results: The percentage of CD4^+T cells and the ration of CD4^+/CD8^+T cells in peripheral bbod from SS patients decreased significantly, and the percentage of CD8^+T cells increased than that in control groups (P<0.05). Compared with patients in inactive period, the percentage of CD4^+T cells in peripheral bLood from SS patients in the active stage increased (P>0.05), the percentage of CD8^+T cells decreased (P>0.05), and the ration of CD4^+/ CD8^+T cells increased (P<0.05).Compared with control groups, the percentage of CD69 expressed on T cells in peripheral blood from SS patients decreased, and the percentage of CD95's expression increased (P<0.05).The percentage of CD69CD95's expression also increased (P>0.05). There were no differences among CD4^+T cells, CD8^+T ceLs and CD4^+/ CD8^+ in peripheral blood from SS patients of different TCM Syndromes (P>0.05). CD69 and CD95's expression on SS patients of different TCM Syndromes was no significantLy different (P>0.05).T cell receptor Vβ(TCR Vβ) subfamilies gene in peripheral blood from SS patients and control groups were expressed in all. Compared witji control groups, Vβ 5.3,Vβ 13.1,Vβ 12,Vβ 7.2 had significant differences (P<0.05).Comparison of different TCM Syndromes in SS group: Vβ 13.1 and Vβ 14 were significantly different (P<0.05).Conclusion:There was dysimmunity on T lymphocyte subsets in peripheral blood of SS patients, which was related to disease activity;apoptosis after activation of autoreactive T cell may be induced by Chinese medicine;TCR Vβ subfamilies of different TCM syndromes were different, which noted that different autoreactive T cells of abnormal activation tended to result in different expression of TCM Different syndromes.

A case of Sjogren's syndrome evolving into multicentric reticulohistiocytosis

Introduction:Multicentric reticulohistiocytosis(MRH)is a rare disease that is known to affect the skin and joints,primarily.It is considered a rare form of non-Langerhans cell histiocytosis(Group C)that can cause destructive inflammatory arthritis involving both the small and large joints.Cutaneous eruptions of periungual,“coral beads”and nodules appearing over the distal fingers are considered pathognomonic clues for identifying this disorder.Histology evaluation of the cutaneous papules typically shows infiltrative histiocytes and multinucleated giant cells.Although no well-established therapies exist to date,a variety of immunosuppressants have been used with varying degrees of success.Case Description:A 53-year-old Caucasian female patient with a family history of rheumatoid arthritis and a personal history of Sjogren's syndrome presented to the rheumatology clinic complaining of pain in her bilateral hands and fingers.There were several small,papulo-nodular lesions ranging from 1 to 2mm in size noted at the base of her nails.A 4mm punch biopsy of one of the papules from the neck showed dermal infiltration of eosinophilic mononucleated and multinucleated giant cells with“ground glass”appearing cytoplasm consistent with MRH.X-ray of her hands showed periarticular demineralization and erosions surrounding several bilateral proximal and distal interphalangeal joints,and thus tofacitinib in addition to methotrexate,hydroxychloroquine,and dexamethasone(dosed weekly)was started to help control any further articular damage.Conclusion:Our aim is to further support the relation of MRH with autoimmune diseases,including Sjogren's syndrome.Autoimmune diseases have been reported in association with MRH,although a clear association has yet to be made.

Hepatocardiorenal syndrome in liver cirrhosis:Recognition of a new entity?

Emerging evidence and perspectives have pointed towards the heart playing an important role in hepatorenal syndrome(HRS),outside of conventional understanding that liver cirrhosis is traditionally considered the sole origin of a cascade of pathophysiological mechanisms directly affecting the kidneys in this context.In the absence of established heart disease,cirrhotic cardiomyopathy may occur more frequently in those with liver cirrhosis and kidney disease.It is a specific form of cardiac dysfunction characterized by blunted contractile responsiveness to stress stimuli and altered diastolic relaxation with electrophysiological abnormalities.Despite the clinical description of these potential cardiac-related complications of the liver,the role of the heart has traditionally been an overlooked aspect of circulatory dysfunction in HRS.Yet from a physiological sense,temporality(prior onset)of cardiorenal interactions in HRS and positive effects stemming from portosystemic shunting demonstrated an important role of the heart in the development and progression of kidney dysfunction in cirrhotic patients.In this review,we discuss current concepts surrounding how the heart may influence the development and progression of HRS,and the role of systemic inflammation and endothelial dysfunction causing circulatory dysfunction within this setting.The temporality of heart and kidney dysfunction in HRS will be discussed.For a subgroup of patients who receive portosystemic shunting,the dynamics of cardiorenal interactions following treatment is reviewed.Continued research to determine the unknowns in this topic is anticipated,hopefully to further clarify the intricacies surrounding the liver-heart-kidney connection and improve strategies for management.

Tricuspid mass-curious case of Li-Fraumeni syndrome: A case report

BACKGROUND Li-Fraumeni syndrome(LFS)is a rare autosomal dominant cancer-predisposing syndrome,which can manifest as a polymorphic spectrum of malignancies.LFS is associated with an early onset in life,with the majority of cases occurring prior to the age of 46.Notwithstanding the infrequency of primary cardiac tumors,it behooves clinicians to remain vigilant in considering the differential diagnosis of such tumors in LFS patients who present with a cardiac mass.This is due to the markedly elevated risk for malignancy in this particular population,far surpassing that of the general populace.CASE SUMMARY Herein,we present a case of a 30-year-old female with LFS who was found to have a tricuspid valve leaflet mass.CONCLUSION This case exemplifies valuable learning points in the diagnostic approach for this exceptionally rare patient population.

Immunoglobulin G-mediated food intolerance and metabolic syndrome influence the occurrence of reflux esophagitis in Helicobacter pylori-infected patients

BACKGROUND Reflux esophagitis has an increasing prevalence and complex and diverse symptoms.Identifying its risk factors is crucial to understanding the etiology,prevention,and management of the disease.The occurrence of reflux esophagitis may be associated with food reactions,Helicobacter pylori(H.pylori)infection,and metabolic syndromes.AIM To investigate the risk factors for reflux esophagitis and analyze the effects of immunoglobulin(Ig)G-mediated food intolerance,H.pylori infection,and metabolic syndrome on reflux esophagitis.METHODS Outpatients attending the Second Medical Center of the PLA General Hospital between 2017 and 2021 were retrospectively enrolled.The patients’basic information,test results,gastroscopy results,H.pylori test results,and IgG-mediated food intolerance results were collected.Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to analyze risk factors for reflux esophagitis.Statistical mediation analysis was used to evaluate the effects of IgG-mediated food intolerance and metabolic syndrome on H.pylori infection affecting reflux esophagitis.RESULTS A total of 7954 outpatients were included;the prevalence of reflux esophagitis,IgG-mediated food intolerance,H.pylori infection,and metabolic syndrome were 20.84%,61.77%,35.91%,and 60.15%,respectively.Multivariate analysis showed that the independent risk factors for reflux esophagitis included IgG-mediated food intolerance(OR=1.688,95%CI:1.497-1.903,P<0.00001)and metabolic syndrome(OR=1.165,95%CI:1.030-1.317,P=0.01484),and the independent protective factor for reflux esophagitis was H.pylori infection(OR=0.400,95%CI:0.351-0.456,P<0.00001).IgG-mediated food intolerance had a partially positive mediating effect on H.pylori infection as it was associated with reduced occurrence of reflux esophagitis(P=0.0200).Metabolic syndrome had a partially negative mediating effect on H.pylori infection and reduced the occurrence of reflux esophagitis(P=0.0220).CONCLUSION Patients with IgG-mediated food intolerance and metabolic syndrome were at higher risk of developing reflux esophagitis,while patients with H.pylori infection were at lower risk.IgG-mediated food intolerance reduced the risk of reflux esophagitis pathogenesis in patients with H.pylori infection;however,metabolic syndrome increased the risk of patients with H.pylori infection developing reflux esophagitis.

Body composition and metabolic syndrome in patients with type 1 diabetes

BACKGROUND In recent years,the prevalence of obesity and metabolic syndrome in type 1 diabetes(T1DM)patients has gradually increased.Insulin resistance in T1DM deserves attention.It is necessary to clarify the relationship between body composition,metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance in T1DM to guide clinical treatment and intervention.AIM To assess body composition(BC)in T1DM patients and evaluate the relationship between BC,metabolic syndrome(MS),and insulin resistance in these indi-viduals.METHODS A total of 101 subjects with T1DM,aged 10 years or older,and with a disease duration of over 1 year were included.Bioelectrical impedance analysis using the Tsinghua-Tongfang BC Analyzer BCA-1B was employed to measure various BC parameters.Clinical and laboratory data were collected,and insulin resistance was calculated using the estimated glucose disposal rate(eGDR).RESULTS MS was diagnosed in 16/101 patients(15.84%),overweight in 16/101 patients(15.84%),obesity in 4/101(3.96%),hypertension in 34/101(33.66%%)and dyslip-idemia in 16/101 patients(15.84%).Visceral fat index(VFI)and trunk fat mass were significantly and negatively correlated with eGDR(both P<0.001).Female patients exhibited higher body fat percentage and visceral fat ratio compared to male patients.Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that significant factors for MS included eGDR[P=0.017,odds ratio(OR)=0.109],VFI(P=0.030,OR=3.529),and a family history of diabetes(P=0.004,OR=0.228).Significant factors for hypertension included eGDR(P<0.001,OR=0.488)and skeletal muscle mass(P=0.003,OR=1.111).Significant factors for dyslipidemia included trunk fat mass(P=0.033,OR=1.202)and eGDR(P=0.037,OR=0.708).CONCLUSION Visceral fat was found to be a superior predictor of MS compared to conventional measures such as body mass index and waist-to-hip ratio in Chinese individuals with T1DM.BC analysis,specifically identifying visceral fat(trunk fat),may play an important role in identifying the increased risk of MS in non-obese patients with T1DM.

Causal role of immune cells in obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome:Mendelian randomization study

BACKGROUND Despite being one of the most prevalent sleep disorders,obstructive sleep apnea hypoventilation syndrome(OSAHS)has limited information on its immunologic foundation.The immunological underpinnings of certain major psychiatric diseases have been uncovered in recent years thanks to the extensive use of genome-wide association studies(GWAS)and genotyping techniques using highdensity genetic markers(e.g.,SNP or CNVs).But this tactic hasn't yet been applied to OSAHS.Using a Mendelian randomization analysis,we analyzed the causal link between immune cells and the illness in order to comprehend the immunological bases of OSAHS.AIM To investigate the immune cells'association with OSAHS via genetic methods,guiding future clinical research.METHODS A comprehensive two-sample mendelian randomization study was conducted to investigate the causal relationship between immune cell characteristics and OSAHS.Summary statistics for each immune cell feature were obtained from the GWAS catalog.Information on 731 immune cell properties,such as morphologic parameters,median fluorescence intensity,absolute cellular,and relative cellular,was compiled using publicly available genetic databases.The results'robustness,heterogeneity,and horizontal pleiotropy were confirmed using extensive sensitivity examination.RESULTS Following false discovery rate(FDR)correction,no statistically significant effect of OSAHS on immunophenotypes was observed.However,two lymphocyte subsets were found to have a significant association with the risk of OSAHS:Basophil%CD33dim HLA DR-CD66b-(OR=1.03,95%CI=1.01-1.03,P<0.001);CD38 on IgD+CD24-B cell(OR=1.04,95%CI=1.02-1.04,P=0.019).CONCLUSION This study shows a strong link between immune cells and OSAHS through a gene approach,thus offering direction for potential future medical research.

Chitin-glucan improves important pathophysiological features of irritable bowel syndrome

BACKGROUND Irritable bowel syndrome(IBS)is one of the most frequent and debilitating conditions leading to gastroenterological referrals.However,recommended treatments remain limited,yielding only limited therapeutic gains.Chitin-glucan(CG)is a novel dietary prebiotic classically used in humans at a dosage of 1.5-3.0 g/d and is considered a safe food ingredient by the European Food Safety Authority.To provide an alternative approach to managing patients with IBS,we performed preclinical molecular,cellular,and animal studies to evaluate the role of chitin-glucan in the main pathophysiological mechanisms involved in IBS.AIM To evaluate the roles of CG in visceral analgesia,intestinal inflammation,barrier function,and to develop computational molecular models.METHODS Visceral pain was recorded through colorectal distension(CRD)in a model of long-lasting colon hypersensitivity induced by an intra-rectal administration of TNBS[15 milligrams(mg)/kilogram(kg)]in 33 Sprague-Dawley rats.Intracolonic pressure was regularly assessed during the 9 wk-experiment(weeks 0,3,5,and 7)in animals receiving CG(n=14)at a human equivalent dose(HED)of 1.5 g/d or 3.0 g/d and compared to negative control(tap water,n=11)and positive control(phloroglucinol at 1.5 g/d HED,n=8)groups.The anti-inflammatory effect of CG was evaluated using clinical and histological scores in 30 C57bl6 male mice with colitis induced by dextran sodium sulfate(DSS)administered in their drinking water during 14 d.HT-29 cells under basal conditions and after stimulation with lipopolysaccharide(LPS)were treated with CG to evaluate changes in pathways related to analgesia μ-opioid receptor(MOR),cannabinoid receptor 2(CB2),peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha,inflammation[interleukin(IL)-10,IL-1b,and IL-8]and barrier function[mucin 2-5AC,claudin-2,zonula occludens(ZO)-1,ZO-2]using the real-time PCR method.Molecular modelling of CG,LPS,lipoteichoic acid(LTA),and phospholipomannan(PLM)was developed,and the ability of CG to chelate microbial pathogenic lipids was evaluated by docking and molecular dynamics simulations.Data were expressed as the mean±SEM.RESULTS Daily CG orally-administered to rats or mice was well tolerated without including diarrhea,visceral hypersensitivity,or inflammation,as evaluated at histological and molecular levels.In a model of CRD,CG at a dosage of 3 g/d HED significantly decreased visceral pain perception by 14%after 2 wk of administration(P<0.01)and reduced inflammation intensity by 50%,resulting in complete regeneration of the colonic mucosa in mice with DSS-induced colitis.To better reproduce the characteristics of visceral pain in patients with IBS,we then measured the therapeutic impact of CG in rats with TNBS-induced inflammation to long-lasting visceral hypersensitivity.CG at a dosage of 1.5 g/d HED decreased visceral pain perception by 20%five weeks after colitis induction(P<0.01).When the CG dosage was increased to 3.0 g/d HED,this analgesic effect surpassed that of the spasmolytic agent phloroglucinol,manifesting more rapidly within 3 wk and leading to a 50%inhibition of pain perception(P<0.0001).The underlying molecular mechanisms contributing to these analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of CG involved,at least in part,a significant induction of MOR,CB2 receptor,and IL-10,as well as a significant decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1b and IL-8.CG also significantly upregulated barrier-related genes including muc5AC,claudin-2,and ZO-2.Molecular modelling of CG revealed a new property of the molecule as a chelator of microbial pathogenic lipids,sequestering gram-negative LPS and gram-positive LTA bacterial toxins,as well as PLM in fungi at the lowesr energy conformations.CONCLUSION CG decreased visceral perception and intestinal inflammation through master gene regulation and direct binding of microbial products,suggesting that CG may constitute a new therapeutic strategy for patients with IBS or IBSlike symptoms.

Predictive value of bilirubin and serum γ-glutamyltranspeptidase levels in type-2 diabetes mellitus patients with acute coronary syndrome

BACKGROUND Cardiovascular disease is a major complication of diabetes mellitus(DM).Type-2 DM(T2DM)is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events and mortality,while serum biomarkers may facilitate the prediction of these outcomes.Early differential diagnosis of T2DM complicated with acute coronary syndrome(ACS)plays an important role in controlling disease progression and improving safety.AIM To investigate the correlation of serum bilirubin andγ-glutamyltranspeptidase(γ-GGT)with major adverse cardiovascular events(MACEs)in T2DM patients with ACS.METHODS The clinical data of inpatients from January 2022 to December 2022 were analyzed retrospectively.According to different conditions,they were divided into the T2DM complicated with ACS group(T2DM+ACS,n=96),simple T2DM group(T2DM,n=85),and simple ACS group(ACS,n=90).The clinical data and laboratory indices were compared among the three groups,and the correlations of serum total bilirubin(TBIL)levels and serumγ-GGT levels with other indices were discussed.T2DM+ACS patients received a 90-day follow-up after discharge and were divided into event(n=15)and nonevent(n=81)groups according to the occurrence of MACEs;Univariate and multivariate analyses were further used to screen the independent influencing factors of MACEs in patients.RESULTS The T2DM+ACS group showed higherγ-GGT,total cholesterol,low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C)and glycosylated hemoglobin(HbA1c)and lower TBIL and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels than the T2DM and ACS groups(P<0.05).Based on univariate analysis,the event and nonevent groups were significantly different in age(t=3.3612,P=0.0011),TBIL level(t=3.0742,P=0.0028),γ-GGT level(t=2.6887,P=0.0085),LDL-C level(t=2.0816,P=0.0401),HbA1c level(t=2.7862,P=0.0065)and left ventricular ejection fraction(LEVF)levels(t=3.2047,P=0.0018).Multivariate logistic regression analysis further identified that TBIL level and LEVF level were protective factor for MACEs,and age andγ-GGT level were risk factors(P<0.05).CONCLUSION Serum TBIL levels are decreased andγ-GGT levels are increased in T2DM+ACS patients,and the two indices are significantly negatively correlated.TBIL andγ-GGT are independent influencing factors for MACEs in such patients.

Clinical efficacy and mechanism study of mid-frequency anti-snoring device in treating moderate obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome

BACKGROUND Obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome(OSAHS)is primarily caused by airway obstruction due to narrowing and blockage in the nasal and nasopha-ryngeal,oropharyngeal,soft palate,and tongue base areas.The mid-frequency anti-snoring device is a new technology based on sublingual nerve stimulation.Its principle is to improve the degree of oropharyngeal airway stenosis in OSAHS patients under mid-frequency wave stimulation.Nevertheless,there is a lack of clinical application and imaging evidence.METHODS We selected 50 patients diagnosed with moderate OSAHS in our hospital between July 2022 and August 2023.They underwent a 4-wk treatment regimen involving the mid-frequency anti-snoring device during nighttime sleep.Following the treatment,we monitored and assessed the sleep apnea quality of life index and Epworth Sleepiness Scale scores.Additionally,we performed computed tomo-graphy scans of the oropharynx in the awake state,during snoring,and while using the mid-frequency anti-snoring device.Cross-sectional area measurements in different states were taken at the narrowest airway point in the soft palate posterior and retrolingual areas.RESULTS Compared to pretreatment measurements,patients exhibited a significant reduction in the apnea-hypopnea index,the percentage of time with oxygen saturation below 90%,snoring frequency,and the duration of the most prolonged apnea event.The lowest oxygen saturation showed a notable increase,and both sleep apnea quality of life index and Epworth Sleepiness Scale scores improved.Oropharyngeal computed tomography scans revealed that in OSAHS patients cross-sectional areas of the oropharyngeal airway in the soft palate posterior area and retrolingual area decreased during snoring compared to the awake state.Conversely,during mid-frequency anti-snoring device treatment,these areas increased compared to snoring.CONCLUSION The mid-frequency anti-snoring device demonstrates the potential to enhance various sleep parameters in patients with moderate OSAHS,thereby improving their quality of life and reducing daytime sleepiness.These therapeutic effects are attributed to the device’s ability to ameliorate the narrowing of the oropharynx in OSAHS patients.