BACKGROUND Melioidosis,an infectious disease caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei(B.pseudomallei),occurs endemically in Southeast Asia and Northern Australia and is a serious opportunistic infection associated with a h...BACKGROUND Melioidosis,an infectious disease caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei(B.pseudomallei),occurs endemically in Southeast Asia and Northern Australia and is a serious opportunistic infection associated with a high mortality rate.CASE SUMMARY A 58-year-old woman presented with scattered erythema on the skin of her limbs,followed by fever and seizures.B.pseudomallei was isolated successively from the patient’s urine,blood,and pus.Magnetic resonance imaging showed abscess formation involving the right forehead and the right frontal region.Subsequently,abscess resection and drainage were performed.The patient showed no signs of relapse after 4 months of follow-up visits post-treatment.CONCLUSION We present here a unique case of multi-systemic melioidosis that occurs in nonendemic regions in a patient who had no recent travel history.Hence,it is critical to enhance awareness of melioidosis in non-endemic regions.展开更多
In the present study, we explored the therapeutic potential of Cang Zhu-Huang Bai (CZ-HB) against rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and elucidated the associated mechanisms. The approach involved a systematic examination of t...In the present study, we explored the therapeutic potential of Cang Zhu-Huang Bai (CZ-HB) against rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and elucidated the associated mechanisms. The approach involved a systematic examination of the chemical ingredients of CZ-HB using TCMSP database. Subsequently, we predicted the targets corresponding to the active ingredients through the SwissTargetPrediction database. We constructed a comprehensive drug-ingredient-target network using Cytoscape (v 3.8.0), with the main ingredients of the drugs identified based on their degree values. We conducted a meticulous search across GEO, GeneCards, Therapeutic Target Database (TTD), and PharmGkb databases to identify target proteins associated with RA. The intersection of targets corresponding to the drugs' active ingredients and those associated with RA provided crucial insights. Functional analysis, including GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses, was performed on the intersecting targets using R (v 4.2.2). Additionally, a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of the intersecting targets was constructed using the String platform. The resulting drug-ingredient-target-disease topology network was visualized using Cytoscape (v 3.8.0), and the Cytohubba plugin facilitated the identification of hub genes. The study revealed 35 active ingredients of CZ-HB and their corresponding 673 targets. We identified 14 major active ingredients crucial to the drug’s effects by focusing on the degree values. Furthermore, our investigation uncovered 784 targets associated with RA. Through the intersection of drug and disease targets, we pinpointed 34 active ingredients of CZ-HB capable of acting on 126 targets implicated in RA. The topological network analysis of the intersected genes identified five hub genes. The binding affinity of these hub genes to the 14 primary active ingredients of the drug was confirmed through molecular docking. The enrichment results of the intersecting genes suggested that CZ-HB exerted its anti-RA effects through a multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway approach.展开更多
BACKGROUND Toxic epidermal necrolysis(TEN)is a life-threatening dermatological emergency mainly induced by drug hypersensitivity reactions.Standard management includes discontinuation of culprit drug and application o...BACKGROUND Toxic epidermal necrolysis(TEN)is a life-threatening dermatological emergency mainly induced by drug hypersensitivity reactions.Standard management includes discontinuation of culprit drug and application of immunomodulatory therapy.However,mortality remains high due to complications like septic shock and multiorgan failures.Innovative approaches for skin care are crucial.This report introduces borneol-gypsum,a traditional Chinese drug but a novel dressing serving as an adjuvant of TEN therapy,might significantly improve skin conditions and patient outcomes in TEN.CASE SUMMARY A 38-year-old woman diagnosed with eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis experienced gangrenous complications and motor nerve involvement.After initial treatment of high-dose corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide,symptom of foot drop improved,absolute eosinophil counts decreased,while limb pain sustained.Duloxetine was added to alleviate her symptom.Subsequently,TEN developed.Additional topical application of borneol-gypsum dressing not only protected the skin lesions from infection but also significantly eased localized pain.This approach demonstrated its merit in TEN management by promoting skin healing and potentially reducing infection risks.CONCLUSION Borneol-gypsum dressing is a promising adjuvant that could significantly improve TEN management,skin regeneration,and patient comfort.展开更多
BACKGROUND Patients with ankylosing spondylitis(AS)frequently suffer from comorbid sleep disorders,exacerbating the burden of the disease and affecting their quality of life.AIM To investigate the clinical significanc...BACKGROUND Patients with ankylosing spondylitis(AS)frequently suffer from comorbid sleep disorders,exacerbating the burden of the disease and affecting their quality of life.AIM To investigate the clinical significance of serum inflammatory factors,health index and disease activity scores in patients with AS complicated by sleep disorders.METHODS A total of 106 AS patients with comorbid sleep disorders were included in the study.The patients were grouped into the desirable and undesirable prognosis groups in accordance with their clinical outcomes.The serum levels of inflammatory factors,including C-reactive protein,erythrocyte sedimentation rate,interleukin(IL)-6,tumour necrosis factor-αand IL-1β,were measured.Disease activity scores,such as the Bath AS functional index,Bath AS disease activity index,Bath AS metrology index and AS disease activity score,were assessed.The health index was obtained through the Short Form-36 questionnaire.RESULTS The study found significant associations amongst serum inflammatory factors,health index and disease activity scores in AS patients with comorbid sleep disorders.Positive correlations were found between serum inflammatory factors and disease activity scores,indicating the influence of heightened systemic inflammation on disease severity and functional impairment.Conversely,negative correlations were found between disease activity scores and health index parameters,highlighting the effect of disease activity on various aspects of healthrelated quality of life.Logistic regression analysis further confirmed the predictive value of these factors on patient outcomes,underscoring their potential utility in risk assessment and prognostication.CONCLUSION The findings demonstrate the intricate interplay amongst disease activity,systemic inflammation and patientreported health outcomes in AS patients complicated by sleep disorders.The results emphasise the need for comprehensive care strategies that address the diverse needs and challenges faced by these patients and underscore the potential relevance of serum inflammatory factors,health index and disease activity scores as prognostic markers in this patient population.展开更多
Microfibers from natural products are endowed with remarkable biocompatibility,biodegradability,sustainable utilization as well as environmental protection char-acteristics etc.Benefitting from these advantages,microfibe...Microfibers from natural products are endowed with remarkable biocompatibility,biodegradability,sustainable utilization as well as environmental protection char-acteristics etc.Benefitting from these advantages,microfibers have demonstrated their prominent values in biomedical applications.This review comprehensively summarizes the relevant research progress of sustainable microfibers from natural products and their biomedical applications.To begin,common natural elements are introduced for the microfiber fabrication.After that,the focus is on the specific fabri-cation technology and process.Subsequently,biomedical applications of sustainable microfibers are discussed in detail.Last but not least,the main challenges during the development process are summarized,followed by a vision for future development opportunities.展开更多
Rheumatoid arthritis(RA)is a prevalent autoimmune disease whose main features include chronic synovial inflammation,bone destruction,and joint degeneration.Neutrophils are often considered to be the first responders t...Rheumatoid arthritis(RA)is a prevalent autoimmune disease whose main features include chronic synovial inflammation,bone destruction,and joint degeneration.Neutrophils are often considered to be the first responders to inflammation and are a key presence in the inflammatory milieu of RA.Neutrophil extracellular traps(NETs),a meshwork of DNA-histone complexes and proteins released by activated neutrophils,are widely involved in the pathophysiology of autoimmune diseases,especially RA,in addition to playing a key role in the neutrophil innate immune response.NETs have been found to be an important source of citrullinated autoantigen antibodies and inflammatory factor release,which can activate RA synovial fibroblasts(FLS)and cause joint damage.This article reviews the role of NETs in the pathophysiology of RA,demonstrating the application of multiple molecules with various therapies,with a view to informing the discovery and development of novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for RA.展开更多
AIM:To examine the disparities in macular retinal vascular density between individuals with connective tissue disease-related interstitial lung disease(CTD-ILD)and healthy controls(HCs)by optical coherence tomography ...AIM:To examine the disparities in macular retinal vascular density between individuals with connective tissue disease-related interstitial lung disease(CTD-ILD)and healthy controls(HCs)by optical coherence tomography angiography(OCTA)and to investigate the changes in microvascular density in abnormal eyes.METHODS:For a retrospective case-control study,a total of 16 patients(32 eyes)diagnosed with CTD-ILD were selected as the ILD group.The 16 healthy volunteers with 32 eyes,matched in terms of age and sex with the patients,were recruited as control group.The macular retina’s superficial retinal layer(SRL)and deep retinal layer(DRL)were examined and scanned using OCTA in each individual eye.The densities of retinal microvascular(MIR),macrovascular(MAR),and total microvascular(TMI)were calculated and compared.Changes in retinal vascular density in the macular region were analyzed using three different segmentation methods:central annuli segmentation method(C1-C6),hemispheric segmentation method[uperior right(SR),superior left(SL),inferior left(IL),and inferior right(IR)],and Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study(ETDRS)methods[superior(S),inferior(I),left(L),and right(R)].The data were analyzed using Version 9.0 of GraphPad prism and Pearson analysis.RESULTS:The OCTA data demonstrated a statistically significant difference(P<0.05)in macular retinal microvessel density between the two groups.Specifically,in the SRL and DRL analyses,the ILD group exhibited significantly lower surface density of MIR and TMI compared to the HCs group(P<0.05).Furthermore,using the hemispheric segmentation method,the ILD group showed notable reductions in SL,SR,and IL in the superficial retina(P<0.05),as well as marked decreases in SL and IR in the deep retina(P<0.05).Similarly,when employing the ETDRS method,the ILD group displayed substantial drops in superficial retinal S and I(P<0.05),along with notable reductions in deep retinal L,I,and R(P<0.05).In the central annuli segmentation method,the ILD group exhibited a significant decrease in the superficial retinal C2-4 region(P<0.05),whereas the deep retina showed a notable reduction in the C3-5 region(P<0.05).Additionally,there was an observed higher positive likelihood ratio in the superficial SR region and deep MIR.Furthermore,there was a negative correlation between conjunctival vascular density and both deep and superficial retinal TMI(P<0.001).CONCLUSION:Patients with CTD-ILD exhibits a significantly higher conjunctival vascular density compared to the HCs group.Conversely,their fundus retinal microvascular density is significantly lower.Furthermore,CTD-ILD patients display notably lower superficial and deep retinal vascular density in comparison to the HCs group.The inverse correlation between conjunctival vascular density and both superficial and deep retinal TMI suggests that detecting subtle changes in ocular microcirculation could potentially serve as an early diagnostic indicator for connective tissue diseases,thereby enhancing disease management.展开更多
BACKGROUND Macrophage activation syndrome(MAS),a sub-type of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis(HLH)secondary to autoimmune rheumatic diseases,is a critical and potentially fatal condition characterized by an excessiv...BACKGROUND Macrophage activation syndrome(MAS),a sub-type of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis(HLH)secondary to autoimmune rheumatic diseases,is a critical and potentially fatal condition characterized by an excessive inflammatory response.Despite the established efficacy of the HLH-2004 guideline in diagnosing and treating HLH over the years,ongoing discussion persists regarding its application,especially for HLH secondary to complicated conditions,such as autoimmune rheumatic diseases combined with severe infection.Etoposide(VP-16),a topoisomerase II inhibitor that effectively induces DNA damage and subsequent apoptosis in hyperactivated immune cells,has been widely used for the treatment of HLH.However,its suppressive effect on immune system may also cause potential exacerbation of infection in autoimmune rheumatic disease-induced HLH patients complicated with severe infection.Therefore,the use of VP-16 in such cases was inconclusive.CASE SUMMARY In this case study,we propose a potentially effective strategy for managing a patient diagnosed with secondary HLH complicated with systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE)and chronic coronavirus disease 2019 infection.Our approach involves early administration of low-dose VP-16(100 mg twice a week,300 mg in total),combined with methylprednisolone,cyclophosphamide,and cyclosporine A.The administration of etoposide effectively led to improvements in various indices of HLH.CONCLUSION Low dose etoposide proves to be an effective approach in alleviating HLH while mitigating the risk of infection.展开更多
[Objectives]To study the effect and mechanism of baicalin on the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in human fibroblast like synoviocytes of rheumatoid arthritis(HFLS-RA).[Methods]To confirm that baicalin alleviated the...[Objectives]To study the effect and mechanism of baicalin on the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in human fibroblast like synoviocytes of rheumatoid arthritis(HFLS-RA).[Methods]To confirm that baicalin alleviated the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in HFLS-RA,the expression of NLRP3 before and after baicalin treatment was observed by immunofluorescence.Western blot was used to detect the protein expression of p-PI3K,p-Akt,NF-κB p65,NLRP3,ASC and caspase-1 after baicalin treatment for 48 h,and the contents of IL-1 and IL-18 in the supernatents were detected by ELISA.In order to explore the mechanism of baicalin alleviating the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome,the corresponding relationship between let-7i-3p and PIK3CA was verified by double luciferin and Westen blot analysis.The expression of let-7i-3p and PI3K before and after baicalin intervention was detected by RT-qPCR.let-7i-3p interference was used to verify whether baicalin mitigated the activation of enhanced NLRP3 inflammasome.[Results]Baicalin(50 and 100 mg/L)significantly reduced the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome,inhibited the protein expressions of p-PI3K,p-Akt,NF-κB p65,NLRP3,ASC and caspase-1,and the secretion of IL-1 and IL-18.let-7i-3p and PIK3CA had a targeted correspondence,and baicalin up-regulated the expression of let-7i-3p and down-regulated the expression of PIK3CA.Baicalin attenuated the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome enhanced by let-7i-3p interference.[Conclusions]Baicalin can up-regulate let-7i-3p expression,inhibit PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signal transduction,and thus reduce the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in HFLS-RA.展开更多
BACKGROUND Systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE)is a heterogeneous autoimmune disorder with varied clinical courses and prognoses,not only did the patients suffer from physical impairment,but also various physical and psy...BACKGROUND Systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE)is a heterogeneous autoimmune disorder with varied clinical courses and prognoses,not only did the patients suffer from physical impairment,but also various physical and psychiatric comorbidities.Growing evidence have suggested that mental disorders in SLE patients,can lead to various adverse consequences.AIM To explored the features and influencing factors of mental health in patients with SLE and clarifying the correlations between mental health and personality characteristics and perceived social support.The results would provide a basis for psychological intervention in patients with SLE.METHODS The clinical data of 168 patients with SLE admitted at the First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University between June 2020 and June 2022 were collected.Psychological assessment and correlation analysis were conducted using the Symptom Checklist-90(SCL-90)and Perceived Social Support Scale,and the collected data were compared with the national norms in China.The relevant factors influencing mental health were identified by statistical analysis.A general information questionnaire,the Revised Life Orientation Test,and Short-Form 36-Item Health Survey were employed to assess optimism level and quality of life(QoL),respectively.RESULTS Patients with SLE obtained higher scores for the somatization,depression,anxiety,and phobic anxiety subscales than national norms(P<0.05).A correlation was identified between total social support and total SCL-90 score or each subscale(P<0.05).The factors significantly affecting patients’mental health were hormone dosage and disease activity index(DAI)(P<0.05).The average optimism score of patients with SLE was 14.36±4.42,and 30 cases were in the middle and lower levels.A positive correlation was found between optimism level and QoL scores.CONCLUSION Patients with SLE develop psychological disorders at varying degrees,which are significantly influenced by hormone dosage and DAI.Patients’mental health should be closely monitored during clinical diagnosis and treatment and provided adequate support in establishing positive,healthy thinking and behavior patterns and improving their optimism level and QoL.展开更多
Background:The incidence of lumbar disc herniation(LDH)is notably high.Consensus among experts highlights non-surgical treatments as the primary therapeutic approach for LDH.Contemporary medicine frequently employs ph...Background:The incidence of lumbar disc herniation(LDH)is notably high.Consensus among experts highlights non-surgical treatments as the primary therapeutic approach for LDH.Contemporary medicine frequently employs pharmacotherapy and epidural injections in such treatments,which are associated with numerous adverse effects.Prolonged use can severely impair the liver and kidney functions of patients.Hence,the role of safe and effective traditional Chinese medicine techniques becomes pivotal.Among various traditional Chinese medicine approaches for treating LDH,fire dragon cupping,renowned for its remarkable efficacy,cost-effectiveness,and ease of application,is extensively utilised in clinical settings for managing LDH.Nonetheless,there is a scarcity of systematic and standardised evidence from evidence-based medicine studies.Therefore,conducting a meta-analysis is imperative.Methods:A comprehensive computerised search was conducted in databases including China National Knowledge Infrastructure,WanFang Data,VIP,China Biology Medicine disc,PubMed,EMbase,The Cochrane Library,Web of Science,and CINAHL.The search aimed to gather randomised controlled trials on fire dragon cupping therapy for LDH,spanning from the inception of these databases until December 2023.Two researchers independently screened the literature according to inclusion and exclusion criteria,extracted data,and assessed the methodological quality of the studies included,utilising RevMan 5.3 software for meta-analysis.Results:The results show that the fire dragon cupping therapy group had better clinical effectiveness(relative risk=1.23,95%confidence interval(CI)(1.14,1.33),P<0.00001),less pain(standardized mean difference=–1.33,95%CI(–1.49,–1.16),P<0.00001),and some improvement in lumbar function(Japanese Orthopaedic Association scores:mean difference=3.37,95%CI(2.31,4.43),P<0.00001.Conclusion:The fire dragon cupping therapy significantly alleviates LDH,warranting its extensive application.However,considering the limitations in the number and quality of studies included,the aforementioned conclusion necessitates further validation through more high-quality research.展开更多
Gluten ataxia and other central nervous system disorders could be linked to gluten enteropathy and related autoantibodies.In this narrative review,we focus on the various neuro-logical manifestations in patients with ...Gluten ataxia and other central nervous system disorders could be linked to gluten enteropathy and related autoantibodies.In this narrative review,we focus on the various neuro-logical manifestations in patients with gluten sensitivity/celiac disease,immunological and autoimmune mechanisms of ataxia in connection to gluten sensitivity and the autoantibodies that could be used as a biomarker for diagnosing and following.We focused on the anti-gliadin antibodies,antibodies to different isoforms of tissue transglutaminase(TG)(anti-TG2,3,and 6 antibodies),anti-glycine receptor antibodies,anti-glutamine acid decarboxylase antibodies,anti-deamidated gliadin peptides antibodies,etc.Most studies found a higher prevalence of these antibodies in patients with gluten sensitivity and neurological dysfunction,presented as different neurological disorders.We also discuss the role of a gluten-free diet on the clinical improvement of patients and also on imaging of these disorders.展开更多
Ankylosing spondylitis(AS)has a very high disability rate.How to effectively inhibit the formation of new bones has become a difficult point in clinical treatment.In recent years,research has shown that different trea...Ankylosing spondylitis(AS)has a very high disability rate.How to effectively inhibit the formation of new bones has become a difficult point in clinical treatment.In recent years,research has shown that different treatment plans can have an impact on inhibiting new bone formation.In this paper,the different effects of new bone formation in the treatment of AS with traditional Chinese and Western medicine are systematically listed.展开更多
Efficient cellular fusion of mononuclear precursors is the prerequisite for the generation of fully functional multinucleated bone-resorbing osteoclasts.However,the exact molecular factors and mechanisms controlling o...Efficient cellular fusion of mononuclear precursors is the prerequisite for the generation of fully functional multinucleated bone-resorbing osteoclasts.However,the exact molecular factors and mechanisms controlling osteoclast fusion remain incompletely understood.Here we identify RANKL-mediated activation of caspase-8 as early key event during osteoclast fusion.展开更多
Nocardiosis manifests as an opportunistic infection,primarily affecting individuals who are immunocompromised and susceptible to the infection.We present a case study of one patient with nephrotic syndrome and membran...Nocardiosis manifests as an opportunistic infection,primarily affecting individuals who are immunocompromised and susceptible to the infection.We present a case study of one patient with nephrotic syndrome and membranous nephropathy,who underwent treatment with prednisone and cyclosporine in 2016.In early 2017,the patient was diagnosed with a"fungal infection"and discontinued the use of cyclosporine.After one month of anti-infection therapy,a cranial magnetic resonance imaging scan showed multiple abscesses in the right temporal region.The diagnosis of nocardiosis was confirmed based on the presence of metastatic abscess masses,multiple lung and brain lesions,and a positive culture of Nocardia in the drainage.We changed the anti-infection therapy to a combination of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole(TMP-SMX),minocycline,and voriconazole.However,the patient experienced a sudden cardiac arrest and subsequently recovered after cardiopulmonary resuscitation.During the five-month follow-up period following the discharge,the patient displayed an enhanced nutritional status and stable renal function.The focal infection ultimately resolved during the subsequent three years.Neuro-infection caused by Nocardia should be considered in immunocompromised patients,and TMP-SMX is the preferred initial therapy;however,because of the high mortality rate,a long-term combination therapy with imipenem,cefotaxime,amikacin,and TMP-SMX is suggested.展开更多
Introduction: Physiotherapy is an integral part of the non-drug treatment strategy for rheumatological conditions. The evidence for its effects is not formal. The objective was to evaluate the impact of physiotherapy ...Introduction: Physiotherapy is an integral part of the non-drug treatment strategy for rheumatological conditions. The evidence for its effects is not formal. The objective was to evaluate the impact of physiotherapy in the management of rheumatological disorders. Methods: 6-month case-control study (December 15, 2021 to June 20, 2022) at Ignace Deen University Hospital (Conakry). Patients with rheumatological disease who received drug therapy and physiotherapy were included in the case group. Age- and sex-matched controls had rheumatological conditions, treated without physiotherapy. The evaluation questionnaires were used: WOMAC (osteoarthritis), EIFEL (low back pain), NDI (neck pain), SPADI (shoulder). Patients with heart failure, respiratory failure and/or skin infection were not included. Results: We collected 773 patients (389 cases and 384 controls) with a mean age of 53.8 years ± 12.2 with female predominance (56.8%). Patients were mainly followed for osteoarthritis (65.2%). Rheumatological conditions managed were knee-based (119;30.6%), lumbar spine (220;56.6%), shoulders (27;6.9%) and cervical spine (23;5.9%). For an average duration of 53.4 ± 12.2 minutes per session, patients had benefited from a median of 19 physiotherapy sessions. After 3 months, the baseline mean VAS of 6/10 improved to 2.2 ± 1.6 for cases and 5.7 ± 1.2 for controls. Functional capacity was improved (WOMAC: 41.8 ± 22.7 vs. 18.3 ± 7.3). The satisfaction of patients treated with physiotherapy was 20 times higher than in controls. Conclusion: Physiotherapy performed in the management of rheumatological conditions significantly reduced pain and improved functional capacity.展开更多
Introduction: Corticosteroid therapy used in rheumatology is effective but can lead to complications. The objective was to describe the complications of corticosteroid therapy in rheumatological practice at Ignace Dee...Introduction: Corticosteroid therapy used in rheumatology is effective but can lead to complications. The objective was to describe the complications of corticosteroid therapy in rheumatological practice at Ignace Deen University Hospital (Conakry). Methods: Cross-sectional study from July 1, 2022 to March 31, 2023. All patients who had been diagnosed with a rheumatological disease and who had received corticosteroid therapy were included. Results: Of the 1489 patients suffering from rheumatological diseases, 238 (15.9%) had received corticosteroid therapy. The average age of the patients was 48.5 ± 17.16 years with a female predominance (70.5%). The main indications for corticosteroid therapy were lower back pain due to probable disco-radicular impingement (35.8%) followed by rheumatoid arthritis (21.9%). The predominant method of administration was infiltration (56.9%). The average dosage was 24.2 ± 13.5 mg prednisone equivalent (range: 5 mg and 40 mg). Complications were present in 26 patients (10.9%) such as muscle cramps (3.8%), hypocalcemia (3.4%), edema of the lower limbs (3%), stimulation of appetite and weight gain (3%), high blood pressure (2.5%), hyperglycemia (2.5%). The occurrence of complications was associated with the high dose of corticosteroid (p = 0.014) and long-term use (p = 0.000). Conclusion: Corticosteroid therapy used in 15.9% of consultations in the rheumatology department of Ignace Deen University Hospital led to 10.9% of complications. These complications were related to the dose and duration of corticosteroid therapy.展开更多
BACKGROUND Systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE)is the most frequent and serious systemic connective tissue disease.Nowadays there is no clear guidance on its treatment in childhood.There are a lot of negative effects of ...BACKGROUND Systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE)is the most frequent and serious systemic connective tissue disease.Nowadays there is no clear guidance on its treatment in childhood.There are a lot of negative effects of standard-of-care treatment(SOCT),including steroid toxicity.Rituximab(RTX)is the biological B-lymphocyte-depleting agent suggested as a basic therapy in pediatric SLE.AIM To compare the benefits of RTX above SOCT.METHODS The data from case histories of 79 children from the Saint-Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University from 2012 to 2022 years,were analyzed.The diagnosis of SLE was established with SLICC criteria.We compared the outcomes of treatment of SLE in children treated with and without RTX.Laboratory data,doses of glucocorticosteroids,disease activity measured with SELENA-SLEDAI,RESULTS Patients,treated with RTX initially had a higher degree of disease activity with prevalence of central nervous system and kidney involvement,compared to patients with SOCT.One year later the disease characteristics became similar between groups with a more marked reduction of disease activity(SELENA-SLEDAI activity index)in the children who received RTX[-19 points(17;23)since baseline]compared to children with SOCT[-10(5;15.5)points since baseline,P=0.001],the number of patients with active lupus nephritis,and daily proteinuria.During RTX therapy,infectious diseases had three patients;one patient developed a bi-cytopenia.CONCLUSION RTX can be considered as the option in the treatment of severe forms of SLE,due to its ability to arrest disease activity compared to SOCT.展开更多
Pott’s disease usually affects two contiguous vertebrae or two spinal levels. The involvement of the three cervicothoracic and lumbar levels is rarely described. Only three cases have been described in the literature...Pott’s disease usually affects two contiguous vertebrae or two spinal levels. The involvement of the three cervicothoracic and lumbar levels is rarely described. Only three cases have been described in the literature to our knowledge. The authors report three new cases of tuberculous spondylodiscitis of cervicothoracic and lumbar site. Our three cases were characterized by symptoms similar to the other topographical forms of Pott’s disease. A predisposing factor is often identified like the infection with human immunodeficiency virus. The definitive diagnosis was made in two cases by identifying acid and alcohol-fast bacilli for one case and by histology for the other case. For the third case, there was a diagnostic presumption reinforced by the satisfactory outcome on tuberculosis chemotherapy for a period of 12 months. The multilevel nature of diseases does not influence the effectiveness of treatment of this form of spinal tuberculosis.展开更多
BACKGROUND Juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE)is a severe,life-threatening disease.However,the role of rituximab in managing juvenile SLE remains undefined,although early biological intervention may improve dis...BACKGROUND Juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE)is a severe,life-threatening disease.However,the role of rituximab in managing juvenile SLE remains undefined,although early biological intervention may improve disease outcomes.AIM To assess the differences in the outcomes of different types of rituximab administration(early and late).METHODS In this retrospective cohort study,the information of 36 children with SLE with administration(LRA)was analyzed.We compared initial disease characteristics at onset,at baseline(start of rituximab),and at the end of the study(EOS)at 12 months,as well as outcomes and treatment characteristics.RESULTS The main differences at baseline were a higher daily median dose of corticosteroids,increased MAS frequency,and a higher Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index(SLEDAI)in the ERA group.No differences in the main SLE outcomes between groups at the EOS were observed.The part of lupus nephritis patients who achieved remission changed from 44%to 31%in ERA and 32%to 11%in the LRA group.Patients with ERA had a shorter time to achieve low daily corticosteroid dose(≤0.2 mg/kg)at 1.2(0.9;1.4)years compared to 2.8(2.3;4.0)years(P=0.000001)and higher probability to achieve this low dose[hazard ratio(HR)=57.8(95%confidence interval(CI):7.2-463.2),P=0.00001 and remission(SLEDAI=0);HR=37.6(95%CI:4.45-333.3),P=0.00001].No differences in adverse events,including severe adverse events,were observed.CONCLUSION ERA demonstrated a better steroid-sparing effect and a possibility of earlier remission or low disease activity,except for lupus nephritis.Further investigations are required.展开更多
文摘BACKGROUND Melioidosis,an infectious disease caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei(B.pseudomallei),occurs endemically in Southeast Asia and Northern Australia and is a serious opportunistic infection associated with a high mortality rate.CASE SUMMARY A 58-year-old woman presented with scattered erythema on the skin of her limbs,followed by fever and seizures.B.pseudomallei was isolated successively from the patient’s urine,blood,and pus.Magnetic resonance imaging showed abscess formation involving the right forehead and the right frontal region.Subsequently,abscess resection and drainage were performed.The patient showed no signs of relapse after 4 months of follow-up visits post-treatment.CONCLUSION We present here a unique case of multi-systemic melioidosis that occurs in nonendemic regions in a patient who had no recent travel history.Hence,it is critical to enhance awareness of melioidosis in non-endemic regions.
基金National Natural Science Foundations of China (Grant No. 81960863)the Education Department of Yunnan Province (Grant No. 2023Y0463)。
文摘In the present study, we explored the therapeutic potential of Cang Zhu-Huang Bai (CZ-HB) against rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and elucidated the associated mechanisms. The approach involved a systematic examination of the chemical ingredients of CZ-HB using TCMSP database. Subsequently, we predicted the targets corresponding to the active ingredients through the SwissTargetPrediction database. We constructed a comprehensive drug-ingredient-target network using Cytoscape (v 3.8.0), with the main ingredients of the drugs identified based on their degree values. We conducted a meticulous search across GEO, GeneCards, Therapeutic Target Database (TTD), and PharmGkb databases to identify target proteins associated with RA. The intersection of targets corresponding to the drugs' active ingredients and those associated with RA provided crucial insights. Functional analysis, including GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses, was performed on the intersecting targets using R (v 4.2.2). Additionally, a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of the intersecting targets was constructed using the String platform. The resulting drug-ingredient-target-disease topology network was visualized using Cytoscape (v 3.8.0), and the Cytohubba plugin facilitated the identification of hub genes. The study revealed 35 active ingredients of CZ-HB and their corresponding 673 targets. We identified 14 major active ingredients crucial to the drug’s effects by focusing on the degree values. Furthermore, our investigation uncovered 784 targets associated with RA. Through the intersection of drug and disease targets, we pinpointed 34 active ingredients of CZ-HB capable of acting on 126 targets implicated in RA. The topological network analysis of the intersected genes identified five hub genes. The binding affinity of these hub genes to the 14 primary active ingredients of the drug was confirmed through molecular docking. The enrichment results of the intersecting genes suggested that CZ-HB exerted its anti-RA effects through a multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway approach.
文摘BACKGROUND Toxic epidermal necrolysis(TEN)is a life-threatening dermatological emergency mainly induced by drug hypersensitivity reactions.Standard management includes discontinuation of culprit drug and application of immunomodulatory therapy.However,mortality remains high due to complications like septic shock and multiorgan failures.Innovative approaches for skin care are crucial.This report introduces borneol-gypsum,a traditional Chinese drug but a novel dressing serving as an adjuvant of TEN therapy,might significantly improve skin conditions and patient outcomes in TEN.CASE SUMMARY A 38-year-old woman diagnosed with eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis experienced gangrenous complications and motor nerve involvement.After initial treatment of high-dose corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide,symptom of foot drop improved,absolute eosinophil counts decreased,while limb pain sustained.Duloxetine was added to alleviate her symptom.Subsequently,TEN developed.Additional topical application of borneol-gypsum dressing not only protected the skin lesions from infection but also significantly eased localized pain.This approach demonstrated its merit in TEN management by promoting skin healing and potentially reducing infection risks.CONCLUSION Borneol-gypsum dressing is a promising adjuvant that could significantly improve TEN management,skin regeneration,and patient comfort.
基金Supported by the Immuno Inflammatory Diseases Research Support Project,No.J202301E036.
文摘BACKGROUND Patients with ankylosing spondylitis(AS)frequently suffer from comorbid sleep disorders,exacerbating the burden of the disease and affecting their quality of life.AIM To investigate the clinical significance of serum inflammatory factors,health index and disease activity scores in patients with AS complicated by sleep disorders.METHODS A total of 106 AS patients with comorbid sleep disorders were included in the study.The patients were grouped into the desirable and undesirable prognosis groups in accordance with their clinical outcomes.The serum levels of inflammatory factors,including C-reactive protein,erythrocyte sedimentation rate,interleukin(IL)-6,tumour necrosis factor-αand IL-1β,were measured.Disease activity scores,such as the Bath AS functional index,Bath AS disease activity index,Bath AS metrology index and AS disease activity score,were assessed.The health index was obtained through the Short Form-36 questionnaire.RESULTS The study found significant associations amongst serum inflammatory factors,health index and disease activity scores in AS patients with comorbid sleep disorders.Positive correlations were found between serum inflammatory factors and disease activity scores,indicating the influence of heightened systemic inflammation on disease severity and functional impairment.Conversely,negative correlations were found between disease activity scores and health index parameters,highlighting the effect of disease activity on various aspects of healthrelated quality of life.Logistic regression analysis further confirmed the predictive value of these factors on patient outcomes,underscoring their potential utility in risk assessment and prognostication.CONCLUSION The findings demonstrate the intricate interplay amongst disease activity,systemic inflammation and patientreported health outcomes in AS patients complicated by sleep disorders.The results emphasise the need for comprehensive care strategies that address the diverse needs and challenges faced by these patients and underscore the potential relevance of serum inflammatory factors,health index and disease activity scores as prognostic markers in this patient population.
基金National Key Research and Development Program of China,Grant/Award Number:2020YFA0908200National Natural Science Foundation of China,Grant/Award Numbers:T2225003,52073060,61927805+1 种基金Shenzhen Fundamental Research Program,Grant/Award Numbers:JCYJ20190813152616459,JCYJ20210324133214038Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation of Guangdong Province,Grant/Award Number:2021B1515120054。
文摘Microfibers from natural products are endowed with remarkable biocompatibility,biodegradability,sustainable utilization as well as environmental protection char-acteristics etc.Benefitting from these advantages,microfibers have demonstrated their prominent values in biomedical applications.This review comprehensively summarizes the relevant research progress of sustainable microfibers from natural products and their biomedical applications.To begin,common natural elements are introduced for the microfiber fabrication.After that,the focus is on the specific fabri-cation technology and process.Subsequently,biomedical applications of sustainable microfibers are discussed in detail.Last but not least,the main challenges during the development process are summarized,followed by a vision for future development opportunities.
基金supported by grants from the National Traditional Chinese Medicine Inheritance and Innovation Project Fund(Development and Reform Office[2022]366)National Key Discipline of Traditional Chinese Medicine(Traditional Chinese Medicine[2023]No.85)+2 种基金the Ministry of Science and Technology National Key Research and Development Program Chinese Medicine Modernization Research Key Project(2018YFC1705204)National Nature Fund Program(82074373,82274490,82205090)Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Applied Basis and Development of Internal Medicine of Modern Traditional Chinese Medicine(2016080503B041).
文摘Rheumatoid arthritis(RA)is a prevalent autoimmune disease whose main features include chronic synovial inflammation,bone destruction,and joint degeneration.Neutrophils are often considered to be the first responders to inflammation and are a key presence in the inflammatory milieu of RA.Neutrophil extracellular traps(NETs),a meshwork of DNA-histone complexes and proteins released by activated neutrophils,are widely involved in the pathophysiology of autoimmune diseases,especially RA,in addition to playing a key role in the neutrophil innate immune response.NETs have been found to be an important source of citrullinated autoantigen antibodies and inflammatory factor release,which can activate RA synovial fibroblasts(FLS)and cause joint damage.This article reviews the role of NETs in the pathophysiology of RA,demonstrating the application of multiple molecules with various therapies,with a view to informing the discovery and development of novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for RA.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82160195)Key R&D Program of Jiangxi Province(No.20223BBH80014)General Science and Technology Program of the Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine,Jiangxi Provincial Health Commission(No.2017A241).
文摘AIM:To examine the disparities in macular retinal vascular density between individuals with connective tissue disease-related interstitial lung disease(CTD-ILD)and healthy controls(HCs)by optical coherence tomography angiography(OCTA)and to investigate the changes in microvascular density in abnormal eyes.METHODS:For a retrospective case-control study,a total of 16 patients(32 eyes)diagnosed with CTD-ILD were selected as the ILD group.The 16 healthy volunteers with 32 eyes,matched in terms of age and sex with the patients,were recruited as control group.The macular retina’s superficial retinal layer(SRL)and deep retinal layer(DRL)were examined and scanned using OCTA in each individual eye.The densities of retinal microvascular(MIR),macrovascular(MAR),and total microvascular(TMI)were calculated and compared.Changes in retinal vascular density in the macular region were analyzed using three different segmentation methods:central annuli segmentation method(C1-C6),hemispheric segmentation method[uperior right(SR),superior left(SL),inferior left(IL),and inferior right(IR)],and Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study(ETDRS)methods[superior(S),inferior(I),left(L),and right(R)].The data were analyzed using Version 9.0 of GraphPad prism and Pearson analysis.RESULTS:The OCTA data demonstrated a statistically significant difference(P<0.05)in macular retinal microvessel density between the two groups.Specifically,in the SRL and DRL analyses,the ILD group exhibited significantly lower surface density of MIR and TMI compared to the HCs group(P<0.05).Furthermore,using the hemispheric segmentation method,the ILD group showed notable reductions in SL,SR,and IL in the superficial retina(P<0.05),as well as marked decreases in SL and IR in the deep retina(P<0.05).Similarly,when employing the ETDRS method,the ILD group displayed substantial drops in superficial retinal S and I(P<0.05),along with notable reductions in deep retinal L,I,and R(P<0.05).In the central annuli segmentation method,the ILD group exhibited a significant decrease in the superficial retinal C2-4 region(P<0.05),whereas the deep retina showed a notable reduction in the C3-5 region(P<0.05).Additionally,there was an observed higher positive likelihood ratio in the superficial SR region and deep MIR.Furthermore,there was a negative correlation between conjunctival vascular density and both deep and superficial retinal TMI(P<0.001).CONCLUSION:Patients with CTD-ILD exhibits a significantly higher conjunctival vascular density compared to the HCs group.Conversely,their fundus retinal microvascular density is significantly lower.Furthermore,CTD-ILD patients display notably lower superficial and deep retinal vascular density in comparison to the HCs group.The inverse correlation between conjunctival vascular density and both superficial and deep retinal TMI suggests that detecting subtle changes in ocular microcirculation could potentially serve as an early diagnostic indicator for connective tissue diseases,thereby enhancing disease management.
基金Supported by Hubei Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China,No.2023AFB771National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82270903 and No.81974254.
文摘BACKGROUND Macrophage activation syndrome(MAS),a sub-type of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis(HLH)secondary to autoimmune rheumatic diseases,is a critical and potentially fatal condition characterized by an excessive inflammatory response.Despite the established efficacy of the HLH-2004 guideline in diagnosing and treating HLH over the years,ongoing discussion persists regarding its application,especially for HLH secondary to complicated conditions,such as autoimmune rheumatic diseases combined with severe infection.Etoposide(VP-16),a topoisomerase II inhibitor that effectively induces DNA damage and subsequent apoptosis in hyperactivated immune cells,has been widely used for the treatment of HLH.However,its suppressive effect on immune system may also cause potential exacerbation of infection in autoimmune rheumatic disease-induced HLH patients complicated with severe infection.Therefore,the use of VP-16 in such cases was inconclusive.CASE SUMMARY In this case study,we propose a potentially effective strategy for managing a patient diagnosed with secondary HLH complicated with systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE)and chronic coronavirus disease 2019 infection.Our approach involves early administration of low-dose VP-16(100 mg twice a week,300 mg in total),combined with methylprednisolone,cyclophosphamide,and cyclosporine A.The administration of etoposide effectively led to improvements in various indices of HLH.CONCLUSION Low dose etoposide proves to be an effective approach in alleviating HLH while mitigating the risk of infection.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82360802):the Natural Science Foundation of Ningxia Province,China(2022AAC 03152).
文摘[Objectives]To study the effect and mechanism of baicalin on the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in human fibroblast like synoviocytes of rheumatoid arthritis(HFLS-RA).[Methods]To confirm that baicalin alleviated the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in HFLS-RA,the expression of NLRP3 before and after baicalin treatment was observed by immunofluorescence.Western blot was used to detect the protein expression of p-PI3K,p-Akt,NF-κB p65,NLRP3,ASC and caspase-1 after baicalin treatment for 48 h,and the contents of IL-1 and IL-18 in the supernatents were detected by ELISA.In order to explore the mechanism of baicalin alleviating the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome,the corresponding relationship between let-7i-3p and PIK3CA was verified by double luciferin and Westen blot analysis.The expression of let-7i-3p and PI3K before and after baicalin intervention was detected by RT-qPCR.let-7i-3p interference was used to verify whether baicalin mitigated the activation of enhanced NLRP3 inflammasome.[Results]Baicalin(50 and 100 mg/L)significantly reduced the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome,inhibited the protein expressions of p-PI3K,p-Akt,NF-κB p65,NLRP3,ASC and caspase-1,and the secretion of IL-1 and IL-18.let-7i-3p and PIK3CA had a targeted correspondence,and baicalin up-regulated the expression of let-7i-3p and down-regulated the expression of PIK3CA.Baicalin attenuated the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome enhanced by let-7i-3p interference.[Conclusions]Baicalin can up-regulate let-7i-3p expression,inhibit PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signal transduction,and thus reduce the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in HFLS-RA.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81760840 and No.82160874Natural Science Foundation of Hainan Province,No.2019RC206.
文摘BACKGROUND Systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE)is a heterogeneous autoimmune disorder with varied clinical courses and prognoses,not only did the patients suffer from physical impairment,but also various physical and psychiatric comorbidities.Growing evidence have suggested that mental disorders in SLE patients,can lead to various adverse consequences.AIM To explored the features and influencing factors of mental health in patients with SLE and clarifying the correlations between mental health and personality characteristics and perceived social support.The results would provide a basis for psychological intervention in patients with SLE.METHODS The clinical data of 168 patients with SLE admitted at the First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University between June 2020 and June 2022 were collected.Psychological assessment and correlation analysis were conducted using the Symptom Checklist-90(SCL-90)and Perceived Social Support Scale,and the collected data were compared with the national norms in China.The relevant factors influencing mental health were identified by statistical analysis.A general information questionnaire,the Revised Life Orientation Test,and Short-Form 36-Item Health Survey were employed to assess optimism level and quality of life(QoL),respectively.RESULTS Patients with SLE obtained higher scores for the somatization,depression,anxiety,and phobic anxiety subscales than national norms(P<0.05).A correlation was identified between total social support and total SCL-90 score or each subscale(P<0.05).The factors significantly affecting patients’mental health were hormone dosage and disease activity index(DAI)(P<0.05).The average optimism score of patients with SLE was 14.36±4.42,and 30 cases were in the middle and lower levels.A positive correlation was found between optimism level and QoL scores.CONCLUSION Patients with SLE develop psychological disorders at varying degrees,which are significantly influenced by hormone dosage and DAI.Patients’mental health should be closely monitored during clinical diagnosis and treatment and provided adequate support in establishing positive,healthy thinking and behavior patterns and improving their optimism level and QoL.
基金supported by the 2022 study on the effectiveness of Fire Dragon Cupping in treating cold-dampness obstructive type shoulder stiffness,funded by the Bao'an District Healthcare Research Project in Shenzhen(Shen Bao Ke[2023]No.13,Project No.2022JD237)2023 study on the therapeutic observation and mechanism exploration of Fire Dragon Cupping in cold-dampness obstructive type acute gout,funded by the Guangdong Provincial Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine(Yue Zhong Yi Han[2023]No.205,Project No.20242077)+1 种基金National Clinical Key Specialty(Traditional Chinese Medicine)Construction Project(2013-239)Sanming Project of Medicine in Shenzhen(No.SZZYSM202206014).
文摘Background:The incidence of lumbar disc herniation(LDH)is notably high.Consensus among experts highlights non-surgical treatments as the primary therapeutic approach for LDH.Contemporary medicine frequently employs pharmacotherapy and epidural injections in such treatments,which are associated with numerous adverse effects.Prolonged use can severely impair the liver and kidney functions of patients.Hence,the role of safe and effective traditional Chinese medicine techniques becomes pivotal.Among various traditional Chinese medicine approaches for treating LDH,fire dragon cupping,renowned for its remarkable efficacy,cost-effectiveness,and ease of application,is extensively utilised in clinical settings for managing LDH.Nonetheless,there is a scarcity of systematic and standardised evidence from evidence-based medicine studies.Therefore,conducting a meta-analysis is imperative.Methods:A comprehensive computerised search was conducted in databases including China National Knowledge Infrastructure,WanFang Data,VIP,China Biology Medicine disc,PubMed,EMbase,The Cochrane Library,Web of Science,and CINAHL.The search aimed to gather randomised controlled trials on fire dragon cupping therapy for LDH,spanning from the inception of these databases until December 2023.Two researchers independently screened the literature according to inclusion and exclusion criteria,extracted data,and assessed the methodological quality of the studies included,utilising RevMan 5.3 software for meta-analysis.Results:The results show that the fire dragon cupping therapy group had better clinical effectiveness(relative risk=1.23,95%confidence interval(CI)(1.14,1.33),P<0.00001),less pain(standardized mean difference=–1.33,95%CI(–1.49,–1.16),P<0.00001),and some improvement in lumbar function(Japanese Orthopaedic Association scores:mean difference=3.37,95%CI(2.31,4.43),P<0.00001.Conclusion:The fire dragon cupping therapy significantly alleviates LDH,warranting its extensive application.However,considering the limitations in the number and quality of studies included,the aforementioned conclusion necessitates further validation through more high-quality research.
基金Supported by The European Union-NextGenerationEU,Through The National Recov-ery and Resilience Plan of the Republic of Bulgaria,No.BG-RRP-2.004-0008。
文摘Gluten ataxia and other central nervous system disorders could be linked to gluten enteropathy and related autoantibodies.In this narrative review,we focus on the various neuro-logical manifestations in patients with gluten sensitivity/celiac disease,immunological and autoimmune mechanisms of ataxia in connection to gluten sensitivity and the autoantibodies that could be used as a biomarker for diagnosing and following.We focused on the anti-gliadin antibodies,antibodies to different isoforms of tissue transglutaminase(TG)(anti-TG2,3,and 6 antibodies),anti-glycine receptor antibodies,anti-glutamine acid decarboxylase antibodies,anti-deamidated gliadin peptides antibodies,etc.Most studies found a higher prevalence of these antibodies in patients with gluten sensitivity and neurological dysfunction,presented as different neurological disorders.We also discuss the role of a gluten-free diet on the clinical improvement of patients and also on imaging of these disorders.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82205105).
文摘Ankylosing spondylitis(AS)has a very high disability rate.How to effectively inhibit the formation of new bones has become a difficult point in clinical treatment.In recent years,research has shown that different treatment plans can have an impact on inhibiting new bone formation.In this paper,the different effects of new bone formation in the treatment of AS with traditional Chinese and Western medicine are systematically listed.
基金supported by the Bayerische Forschungsstiftung to B.K.the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (CRC1181 to G.K.and G.S.+3 种基金SCHE 2062/1-1 to C.S.)funded by the Wellcome Trust Investigator Award (107964/Z/15/Z)the UK Dementia Research Institutefunded by BBSRC Discovery Fellowship (BB/T009543/1)。
文摘Efficient cellular fusion of mononuclear precursors is the prerequisite for the generation of fully functional multinucleated bone-resorbing osteoclasts.However,the exact molecular factors and mechanisms controlling osteoclast fusion remain incompletely understood.Here we identify RANKL-mediated activation of caspase-8 as early key event during osteoclast fusion.
基金funded by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.81570666)International Society of Nephrology Clinical Research Program(Grant No.18-01-0247)+3 种基金Program of Jiangsu Clinical Research Center(Grant No.BL2014084)Jiangsu Province Key Medical Personnel Project(Grant No.ZDRCA2016002)CKD Anemia Research Foundation from China International Medical Foundation(Grant No.Z-2017-24-2037)Outstanding Young and Middle-aged Talents Support Program of the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University(Jiangsu Province Hospital).
文摘Nocardiosis manifests as an opportunistic infection,primarily affecting individuals who are immunocompromised and susceptible to the infection.We present a case study of one patient with nephrotic syndrome and membranous nephropathy,who underwent treatment with prednisone and cyclosporine in 2016.In early 2017,the patient was diagnosed with a"fungal infection"and discontinued the use of cyclosporine.After one month of anti-infection therapy,a cranial magnetic resonance imaging scan showed multiple abscesses in the right temporal region.The diagnosis of nocardiosis was confirmed based on the presence of metastatic abscess masses,multiple lung and brain lesions,and a positive culture of Nocardia in the drainage.We changed the anti-infection therapy to a combination of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole(TMP-SMX),minocycline,and voriconazole.However,the patient experienced a sudden cardiac arrest and subsequently recovered after cardiopulmonary resuscitation.During the five-month follow-up period following the discharge,the patient displayed an enhanced nutritional status and stable renal function.The focal infection ultimately resolved during the subsequent three years.Neuro-infection caused by Nocardia should be considered in immunocompromised patients,and TMP-SMX is the preferred initial therapy;however,because of the high mortality rate,a long-term combination therapy with imipenem,cefotaxime,amikacin,and TMP-SMX is suggested.
文摘Introduction: Physiotherapy is an integral part of the non-drug treatment strategy for rheumatological conditions. The evidence for its effects is not formal. The objective was to evaluate the impact of physiotherapy in the management of rheumatological disorders. Methods: 6-month case-control study (December 15, 2021 to June 20, 2022) at Ignace Deen University Hospital (Conakry). Patients with rheumatological disease who received drug therapy and physiotherapy were included in the case group. Age- and sex-matched controls had rheumatological conditions, treated without physiotherapy. The evaluation questionnaires were used: WOMAC (osteoarthritis), EIFEL (low back pain), NDI (neck pain), SPADI (shoulder). Patients with heart failure, respiratory failure and/or skin infection were not included. Results: We collected 773 patients (389 cases and 384 controls) with a mean age of 53.8 years ± 12.2 with female predominance (56.8%). Patients were mainly followed for osteoarthritis (65.2%). Rheumatological conditions managed were knee-based (119;30.6%), lumbar spine (220;56.6%), shoulders (27;6.9%) and cervical spine (23;5.9%). For an average duration of 53.4 ± 12.2 minutes per session, patients had benefited from a median of 19 physiotherapy sessions. After 3 months, the baseline mean VAS of 6/10 improved to 2.2 ± 1.6 for cases and 5.7 ± 1.2 for controls. Functional capacity was improved (WOMAC: 41.8 ± 22.7 vs. 18.3 ± 7.3). The satisfaction of patients treated with physiotherapy was 20 times higher than in controls. Conclusion: Physiotherapy performed in the management of rheumatological conditions significantly reduced pain and improved functional capacity.
文摘Introduction: Corticosteroid therapy used in rheumatology is effective but can lead to complications. The objective was to describe the complications of corticosteroid therapy in rheumatological practice at Ignace Deen University Hospital (Conakry). Methods: Cross-sectional study from July 1, 2022 to March 31, 2023. All patients who had been diagnosed with a rheumatological disease and who had received corticosteroid therapy were included. Results: Of the 1489 patients suffering from rheumatological diseases, 238 (15.9%) had received corticosteroid therapy. The average age of the patients was 48.5 ± 17.16 years with a female predominance (70.5%). The main indications for corticosteroid therapy were lower back pain due to probable disco-radicular impingement (35.8%) followed by rheumatoid arthritis (21.9%). The predominant method of administration was infiltration (56.9%). The average dosage was 24.2 ± 13.5 mg prednisone equivalent (range: 5 mg and 40 mg). Complications were present in 26 patients (10.9%) such as muscle cramps (3.8%), hypocalcemia (3.4%), edema of the lower limbs (3%), stimulation of appetite and weight gain (3%), high blood pressure (2.5%), hyperglycemia (2.5%). The occurrence of complications was associated with the high dose of corticosteroid (p = 0.014) and long-term use (p = 0.000). Conclusion: Corticosteroid therapy used in 15.9% of consultations in the rheumatology department of Ignace Deen University Hospital led to 10.9% of complications. These complications were related to the dose and duration of corticosteroid therapy.
基金Supported by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation,No.075-15-2022-301the Russian Science Foundation,No.22-45-08004.
文摘BACKGROUND Systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE)is the most frequent and serious systemic connective tissue disease.Nowadays there is no clear guidance on its treatment in childhood.There are a lot of negative effects of standard-of-care treatment(SOCT),including steroid toxicity.Rituximab(RTX)is the biological B-lymphocyte-depleting agent suggested as a basic therapy in pediatric SLE.AIM To compare the benefits of RTX above SOCT.METHODS The data from case histories of 79 children from the Saint-Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University from 2012 to 2022 years,were analyzed.The diagnosis of SLE was established with SLICC criteria.We compared the outcomes of treatment of SLE in children treated with and without RTX.Laboratory data,doses of glucocorticosteroids,disease activity measured with SELENA-SLEDAI,RESULTS Patients,treated with RTX initially had a higher degree of disease activity with prevalence of central nervous system and kidney involvement,compared to patients with SOCT.One year later the disease characteristics became similar between groups with a more marked reduction of disease activity(SELENA-SLEDAI activity index)in the children who received RTX[-19 points(17;23)since baseline]compared to children with SOCT[-10(5;15.5)points since baseline,P=0.001],the number of patients with active lupus nephritis,and daily proteinuria.During RTX therapy,infectious diseases had three patients;one patient developed a bi-cytopenia.CONCLUSION RTX can be considered as the option in the treatment of severe forms of SLE,due to its ability to arrest disease activity compared to SOCT.
文摘Pott’s disease usually affects two contiguous vertebrae or two spinal levels. The involvement of the three cervicothoracic and lumbar levels is rarely described. Only three cases have been described in the literature to our knowledge. The authors report three new cases of tuberculous spondylodiscitis of cervicothoracic and lumbar site. Our three cases were characterized by symptoms similar to the other topographical forms of Pott’s disease. A predisposing factor is often identified like the infection with human immunodeficiency virus. The definitive diagnosis was made in two cases by identifying acid and alcohol-fast bacilli for one case and by histology for the other case. For the third case, there was a diagnostic presumption reinforced by the satisfactory outcome on tuberculosis chemotherapy for a period of 12 months. The multilevel nature of diseases does not influence the effectiveness of treatment of this form of spinal tuberculosis.
基金Supported by Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation,No.075-15-2022-301the Russian Science Foundation Grant,No.22-45-08004.
文摘BACKGROUND Juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE)is a severe,life-threatening disease.However,the role of rituximab in managing juvenile SLE remains undefined,although early biological intervention may improve disease outcomes.AIM To assess the differences in the outcomes of different types of rituximab administration(early and late).METHODS In this retrospective cohort study,the information of 36 children with SLE with administration(LRA)was analyzed.We compared initial disease characteristics at onset,at baseline(start of rituximab),and at the end of the study(EOS)at 12 months,as well as outcomes and treatment characteristics.RESULTS The main differences at baseline were a higher daily median dose of corticosteroids,increased MAS frequency,and a higher Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index(SLEDAI)in the ERA group.No differences in the main SLE outcomes between groups at the EOS were observed.The part of lupus nephritis patients who achieved remission changed from 44%to 31%in ERA and 32%to 11%in the LRA group.Patients with ERA had a shorter time to achieve low daily corticosteroid dose(≤0.2 mg/kg)at 1.2(0.9;1.4)years compared to 2.8(2.3;4.0)years(P=0.000001)and higher probability to achieve this low dose[hazard ratio(HR)=57.8(95%confidence interval(CI):7.2-463.2),P=0.00001 and remission(SLEDAI=0);HR=37.6(95%CI:4.45-333.3),P=0.00001].No differences in adverse events,including severe adverse events,were observed.CONCLUSION ERA demonstrated a better steroid-sparing effect and a possibility of earlier remission or low disease activity,except for lupus nephritis.Further investigations are required.
