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Jian Zou,&ast; Jia-Yun Zhong,&ast; Yan-Xin Liu, Yu Liu, Dan Huang, Bian-Tiao Xu, Xi-Wen Li, Wen-Jun Gong, Jia Tao Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The People’s Hospital of Pengzhou, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Jian Zou, The People’s Hospital of Pengzhou, No. 255 Second Section of South Third Ring Road, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86 28 86239898, Email 70336641@qq.comPurpose: Quality control circle (QCC) has acquired success in many fields in healthcare industry as a process management tool, whereas its efficacy in surgical antimicrobial prophylaxis (SAP) remains unknown. This study aimed to implement QCC interventions to improve the appropriateness of SAP.Methods: A QCC activity team was established to grasp the current situation of SAP in clean surgery procedure, set target, formulate corresponding countermeasures and implement and review them in stages. The plan-do-check-act (PDCA) method was cyclically applied.Results: The appropriateness of antibiotic prophylaxis before (January to December 2020) and after (January to December 2021) the implementation of QCC activities were evaluated based on relevant international and Chinese SAP guidelines. The overall SAP appropriateness was significantly improved from 68.72% before QCC to 93.7% post QCC implementation (P< 0.01). A significant improvement (P< 0.05) was also determined for each category: selection (from 78.82% to 96.06%), duration (from 90.15% to 96.46%), indication (from 94.09% to 97.64%), timing of first dose (from 96.55% to 99.21%), antimicrobial usage (from 96.8% to 99.41%), re-dosing of antimicrobial (from 96.55% to 99.21%).Conclusion: Implementation of a QCC program can optimize the use of antibiotics and improve the appropriateness of SAP and is of practical importance to their standardization.Keywords: surgical antimicrobial prophylaxis, quality control circle, appropriateness

Mutations in the mitochondrial (mt) genome that result in mt dysfunction, have long been proposed to play important roles in the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Among these, the common mtDNA 4977 bp deletion is one of the most frequent mutations observed in various cancers. To understand the relationship between the mtDNA 4977 bp deletion and HCC, we performed mutational screening for the presence of this deletion in 105 HCC patients and 69 unrelated healthy subjects. After nested-polymerase chain reaction (nested-PCR) amplification, we found that there were 10 patients carrying the mtDNA 4977 bp deletion, and this deletion was absent in control subjects. Moreover, HCC patients carrying this deletion showed a marked increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) level and mtDNA copy number when compared with the healthy controls. Taken together, our data indicated that the mtDNA 4977 bp deletion may play important role in the carcinogenesis of HCC, possibly via the alternation of mtDNA copy number and oxidative stress.

Background: Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DbCM) is one of the common complications in diabetic patients, but there is no effective treatment for it up to now. Ketone bodies such as β-OHB have been widely reported to be beneficial for metabolic diseases including various diabetic complications. However, the role of ketone metabolism, especially the relevant enzymes, in the pathogenesis of DbCM is poorly understood., Methods and Results: In this study, we firstly observed BDH1, the rate-limiting enzyme of ketone metabolism, was markedly diminished in cardiac tissues from db/db mice and diabetic patients, as well as in H9C2 cells treated with palmitic acid. Genetic deletion of BDH1 aggravated, whereas AAV-mediated BDH1 overexpression attenuated, the diastolic dysfunction and pathogenic progression including apoptosis, fibrosis and inflammation of hearts from db/db mice. Likewise, BDH1 knockdown promoted, whereas BDH1 overexpression reversed, the palmitic acid-induced lipotoxicity in H9C2 cells. Transcriptome analysis revealed that BDH1 negatively regulated LCN2 expression and LCN2 overexpression largely abrogated BDH1 overexpression-mediated myocardial protection in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, BDH1 overexpression reprogrammed ketone metabolism with increased AcAc and decreased β-OHB, thereby resulting in decreased β-hydroxybutyrylation of H3K9 on promoter region of LCN2, which repressed transcription of LCN2 and ultimately inhibited NF-κB activity through weakening interaction between NF-κB and RPS3. Furthermore, oral administration of β-hydroxybutyrylation inhibitor A485 to diabetic mice mitigated the cardiac injury concurrently with decreased expression of LCN2., Conclusion: Our results uncovered a novel mechanism whereby myocardial BDH1 ameliorates DbCM via epigenetic regulation of LCN2, which highlights the potential of BDH1/LCN2-based therapeutics in DbCM., Competing Interests: Declarations. Ethics approval and consent to participate: All procedures that involved human samples were approved by the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University Ethics Committee (KY2023221). Animal experiments were approved by the Institutional Animals Ethics Committees of Southwest Medical University (20220225-014). Consent for publication: Not applicable. Competing interests: The authors declare no competing interests., (© 2025. The Author(s).)

This letter discusses the research conducted by Abdel-Razeq et al , highlighting a significant association between Helicobacter pylori ( H. pylori ) infection and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) in individuals with a prior history of H. pylori infection. Using a comprehensive patient database, the study establishes an independent correlation between H. pylori and an elevated risk of MASH, even after adjusting for coexisting conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and dyslipidemia. Notably, the findings suggest that H. pylori may worsen liver pathology through inflammatory pathways, contributing to hepatic insulin resistance and lipid accumulation. Although the study provides strong evidence for this association, limitations related to diagnostic heterogeneity indicate a need for further research to clarify the underlying mechanisms and to explore the potential roles of genetic and microbiome factors in this relationship., Competing Interests: Conflict-of-interest statement: The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest., (©The Author(s) 2025. Published by Baishideng Publishing Group Inc. All rights reserved.)

This letter discusses the recent study by Mukherjee et al , which identifies a significant prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) among newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients in Bihar, India, and underscores the pressing need for integrated MASLD management within T2DM care. With 72.3% of the study cohort affected by MASLD, implementing routine liver function tests and ultrasound screenings is recommended as a standard practice in diabetes care, especially in regions with high prevalence rates. The study also advocates for dietary and lifestyle modifications, particularly the reduction of saturated fats, to slow MASLD progression. Patient education on monitoring body mass index and waist circumference, coupled with the integration of these metrics into digital health records, could enhance patient involvement and support proactive health management. Moreover, the letter emphasizes the advantages of developing a region-specific MASLD risk model that incorporates local dietary patterns and socioeconomic factors. Continued research into genetic and environmental determinants of MASLD remains essential for advancing our understanding of its etiology and informing targeted public health strategies., Competing Interests: Conflict-of-interest statement: The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest., (©The Author(s) 2025. Published by Baishideng Publishing Group Inc. All rights reserved.)

This article discusses the interplay between colorectal cancer (CRC) stem cells, tumor microenvironment (TME), and gut microbiota, emphasizing their dynamic roles in cancer progression and treatment resistance. It highlights the adaptability of CRC stem cells, the bidirectional influence of TME, and the multifaceted impact of gut microbiota on CRC. The manuscript proposes innovative therapeutic strategies focusing on these interactions, advocating for a shift towards personalized and ecosystem-targeted treatments in CRC. The conclusion underscores the importance of continued research in these areas for developing effective, personalized therapies., Competing Interests: Conflict-of-interest statement: All the authors report no relevant conflicts of interest for this article., (©The Author(s) 2024. Published by Baishideng Publishing Group Inc. All rights reserved.)

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a group of chronic liver disease which ranges from simple steatosis (NAFL) to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and is characterized by lipid accumulation, inflammation activation, fibrosis, and cell death. To date, a number of preclinical studies or clinical trials associated with therapies targeting fatty acid metabolism, inflammatory factors and liver fibrosis are performed to develop effective drugs for NAFLD/NASH. However, few therapies are cell death signaling-targeted even though the various cell death modes are present throughout the progression of NAFLD/NASH. Here we summarize the four types of cell death including apoptosis, necroptosis, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis in the NAFLD and the underlying molecular mechanisms by which the pathogenic factors such as free fatty acid and LPS induce cell death in the pathogenesis of NAFLD. In addition, we also review the effects of cell death-targeted therapies on NAFLD. In summary, our review provides comprehensive insight into the roles of various cell death modes in the progression of NAFLD, which we hope will open new avenues for therapeutic intervention., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Flame-retardant materials that are mechanically robust, low cost and non-toxic from green and renewable resources are highly demanded in many fields. In this work, aerogels of alginate extracted from seaweeds were fabricated and reinforced with nanoclay. The nanoclay particles increase the molecular ordering (crystallinity) of the aerogels through physical interactions with alginate molecules. They also served as cross-linkers and flame-retardant additives to improve the mechanical strength, elasticity, thermal stability and flame-retarding properties of the aerogels. Under exposure to a butane flame (750 °C), the aerogels maintained their structural integrity and did not produce drips. An optimal loading of nanoclay which led to the best flame retardancy (non-flammable) of the aerogel was determined. The results of this work demonstrate that alginate-nanoclay composite aerogels can be promisingly used as flame-retardant thermal insulation materials., Competing Interests: There are no conflicts to declare., (This journal is © The Royal Society of Chemistry.)

A ketogenic diet (KD) and β-hydroxybutyrate (βOHB) have been widely reported as effective therapies for metabolic diseases. β-Hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase 1 (BDH1) is the rate-limiting enzyme in ketone metabolism. In this study, we examined the BDH1-mediated βOHB metabolic pathway in the pathogenesis of diabetic kidney disease (DKD). We found that BDH1 is downregulated in the kidneys in DKD mouse models, patients with diabetes, and high glucose- or palmitic acid-induced human renal tubular epithelial (HK-2) cells. BDH1 overexpression or βOHB treatment protects HK-2 cells from glucotoxicity and lipotoxicity by inhibiting reactive oxygen species overproduction. Mechanistically, BDH1-mediated βOHB metabolism activates NRF2 by enhancing the metabolic flux of βOHB-acetoacetate-succinate-fumarate. Moreover, in vivo studies showed that adeno-associated virus 9-mediated BDH1 renal expression successfully reverses fibrosis, inflammation, and apoptosis in the kidneys of C57 BKS db/db mice. Either βOHB supplementation or KD feeding could elevate the renal expression of BDH1 and reverse the progression of DKD. Our results revealed a BDH1-mediated molecular mechanism in the pathogenesis of DKD and identified BDH1 as a potential therapeutic target for DKD.

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease characterized by long-term hyperglycaemia, which leads to microangiopathy and macroangiopathy and ultimately increases the mortality of diabetic patients. Endothelial dysfunction, which has been recognized as a key factor in the pathogenesis of diabetic microangiopathy and macroangiopathy, is characterized by a reduction in NO bioavailability. Oxidative stress, which is the main pathogenic factor in diabetes, is one of the major triggers of endothelial dysfunction through the reduction in NO. In this review, we summarize the four sources of ROS in the diabetic vasculature and the underlying molecular mechanisms by which the pathogenic factors hyperglycaemia, hyperlipidaemia, adipokines and insulin resistance induce oxidative stress in endothelial cells in the context of diabetes. In addition, we discuss oxidative stress-targeted interventions, including hypoglycaemic drugs, antioxidants and lifestyle interventions, and their effects on diabetes-induced endothelial dysfunction. In summary, our review provides comprehensive insight into the roles of oxidative stress in diabetes-induced endothelial dysfunction., (© 2023. BioMed Central Ltd., part of Springer Nature.)

Cannabidiol (CBD) reportedly exerts protective effects against many psychiatric disorders and neurodegenerative diseases, but the mechanisms are poorly understood. In this study, we explored the molecular mechanism of CBD against cerebral ischemia. HT-22 cells or primary cortical neurons were subjected to oxygen-glucose deprivation insult followed by reoxygenation (OGD/R). In both HT-22 cells and primary cortical neurons, CBD pretreatment (0.1, 0.3, 1 μM) dose-dependently attenuated OGD/R-induced cell death and mitochondrial dysfunction, ameliorated OGD/R-induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and increased the mitofusin-2 (MFN2) protein level in HT-22 cells and primary cortical neurons. Knockdown of MFN2 abolished the protective effects of CBD. CBD pretreatment also suppressed OGD/R-induced binding of Parkin to MFN2 and subsequent ubiquitination of MFN2. Overexpression of Parkin blocked the effects of CBD in reducing MFN2 ubiquitination and reduced cell viability, whereas overexpressing MFN2 abolished Parkin's detrimental effects. In vivo experiments were conducted on male rats subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) insult, and administration of CBD (2.5, 5 mg · kg -1 , i.p.) dose-dependently reduced the infarct volume and ER stress in the brains. Moreover, the level of MFN2 within the ischemic penumbra of rats was increased by CBD treatment, while the binding of Parkin to MFN2 and the ubiquitination of MFN2 was decreased. Finally, short hairpin RNA against MFN2 reversed CBD's protective effects. Together, these results demonstrate that CBD protects brain neurons against cerebral ischemia by reducing MFN2 degradation via disrupting Parkin's binding to MFN2, indicating that MFN2 is a potential target for the treatment of cerebral ischemia., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Chinese Pharmacological Society.)

In 2020, a group of experts officially suggested metabolic dysfunction associated with fatty liver disease "MAFLD" as a more appropriate overarching term than NAFLD, indicating the key role of metabolism in fatty liver disease. Bdh1, as the rate-limiting enzyme of ketone metabolism, acts as an important metabolic regulator in liver. However, the role of Bdh1 in MAFLD is unclear. In this study, we used the transgenic db/db mice as a MAFLD mouse model and observed the downregulated expression of Bdh1 in fatty liver. In addition, expression of Bdh1 was also reduced by palmitic acid (PA) treatment in LO2 cells. Bdh1 knockdown led to ROS overproduction and ROS-induced inflammation and apoptosis in LO2 cells, while Bdh1 overexpression protected LO2 cells from lipotoxicity by inhibiting ROS overproduction. Mechanistically, Bdh1-mediated βOHB metabolism inhibits ROS overproduction by activation of Nrf2 through enhancement of metabolic flux composed of βOHB-AcAc-succinate-fumarate. Notably, adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated Bdh1 overexpression successfully reversed the hepatic function indexes, fibrosis, inflammation, and apoptosis in fatty livers from db/db mice. In conclusion, our study revealed a Bdh1-mediated molecular mechanism in pathogenesis of metabolic dysfunction related liver disease and identified Bdh1 as a novel potential therapeutic target for MAFLD., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

Selective multi-wavelength infrared light sources are important elements to achieve precise molecular detection by the usage of their intrinsic vibrational spectra. In this work, we proposed a double-stacked cross-shaped metal-dielectric-metal (MDM) resonator to achieve penta-wavelength mid-infrared thermal emission. Through the optimization of un-symmetric cross-shaped tri-layers incorporated with two sandwiched dielectric materials, four distinct emission bands associated with the magnetic resonances in stacked MDM resonators were realized, which shows nondispersive and polarization-dependent property due to the localized plasmon oscillations of the magnetic resonances. In addition, the phonon emission in the silicon dioxide layer also contributes one radiation peak at λ = 10 μm. Via a simple polarization rotator, the emission wavelengths can be tuned from 4.5 and 7.5 μm to 5.5 and 8.5 μm. This paves the way for simultaneous detection of multi-band molecular absorption fingerprint, and the polarization-tunable emission wavelengths also facilitate the possibility to achieve multi-compound sensing via one compact system.

In this study, the effects of intercropping with alfalfa and nitrogen application on the functional diversity of soil microbial community in mulberry rhizosphere were examined by Biolog-Ecoplate TM technique, and principal component and canonical analyses. Compared to monoculture with no nitrogen (N) addition, monoculture with N application and intercropping with alfalfa remarkably reduced soil pH and significantly increased the contents of soil organic matter, soil available N, soil water content, and activities of peroxidase and urease. Monoculture with N application and intercropping with alfalfa (with or without N application) increased the AWCD values, diversity index, and the carbon source utilization ratios of soil microbes. Higher increments of these parameters were detected in the treatment of intercropping plus N application. The results of principal component analysis showed that N application and intercropping changed the capacity of the rhizosphere microbial community for utilizing carbon sources. The utilization of carbon sources highly related to the principal components by the rhizosphere microbial communities was similar in the treatments of monoculture with N application and intercropping without N application. The utilization of itaconic acid and D-glucamaminic acid in the latter was more than 4% and was significantly higher than that in the former. The results from redundancy analysis showed that the soil microbial diversity in mulberry rhizosphere of the treatment of monoculture without N application was positively correlated with polyphenol oxidase activity and negatively correlated with soil water content, whereas that of monoculture with N application and intercropping without N application was significantly positively correlated with soil pH and soil water content and negatively correlated with soil N avalaibility. The diversity of the microbes in the rhizosphere soil of mulberries under the treatment of intercropping with N application showed positive correlation with soil N availability and was significantly negatively correlated with soil pH.

Herein, we studied the occurrence and profiles of thirteen PBDE congeners in 30 river sediment samples from Shanghai, China. The concentrations of Σ 13 PBDEs ranged from 110 to 13,071 pg g -1 dw, with an average value of 2,841 pg g -1 dw. BDE-209 was the predominant congener accounting for more than 65 % of total PBDEs, demonstrating that the major source of PBDEs in sediment samples was associated with the prevalent use of technical deca-BDE products. Moreover, low brominated BDEs in sediments also came from the degradation of higher brominated BDEs. In addition, taking into consideration of dietary exposure, PBDEs in serum samples collected from the locals were also detected with range of 419-26,744 pg g -1 (average 5,561 pg g -1 ), which suggested a relatively low burden of PBDEs contamination to human body compared with the condition in other place. And in serum, low brominated compounds constituted the majority of total PBDE congeners.

Herein, the occurrence of three Hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD) diastereoisomers in soil and road dust from the mixed-land-use areas in Shanghai was investigated. The total concentrations of HBCDDs (∑HBCDDs) in soil ranged from 0.30 to 249ngg(-1)dw, with a median level of 5.14ngg(-1)dw. For the road dust samples, the ΣHBCDD concentrations varied from 4.11 to 508ngg(-1)dw, with a median level of 23.4ngg(-1)dw. The levels of HBCDDs varied in different mixed-land-use areas. In soil, the levels of HBCDDs increased in the following sequence: residential area & agricultural area (R&A)

In this study, 14 polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) congeners were investigated in soil and outdoor dust taken from Jiading District, Shanghai City. The concentrations of Σ13PBDEs (BDE-17, BDE-28, BDE-47, BDE-66, BDE-71, BDE-85, BDE-99, BDE-100, BDE-138, BDE-153, BDE-154, BDE-183 and BDE-190) and BDE-209 ranged from 0.37 to 32.9ngg(-1) and 4.31 to 141.8ngg(-1) dry weight (dw) in soil. Concentrations in outdoor dust ranged from 1.03 to 112.5ngg(-1) and 6.71 to 342.1ngg(-1) (dw) for Σ13PBDEs and BDE-209. BDE-209 was the predominant congener both in soil and outdoor dust, but the BDE-209 contribution was much lower in dust compared with that in soil. A significant correlation between PBDEs congeners and specific land use type was observed, and principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that the major source of PBDE in samples was associated with prevalent use of technical Deca-BDE, which also suggested the contributions from Penta-BDE and Octa-BDE mixtures. Canonical correlation analysis suggested the two sets of PBDEs data (soil and outdoor dust) were uncorrelated, and Spearman correlation coefficient matrix implied that the degradation pathways of PBDEs were different between soil and outdoor dust., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To describe in as much detail as possible the method for ablating the ventromedial shell of the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and investigate the efficacy and safety of the ablation treatment., Methods: Sixty-five patients with drug addictions received operations within the time frame from 2004 to 2009. The ablation targets were located in the bilateral medial posterior inferior shell of the NAc. Intraoperative electrophysiological monitoring was performed., Results: Tissue impedance in the shell of the NAc varied from 185 to 355 Ω. When stimulated with a low frequency (2 Hz) and a voltage above 3 V, 57 out of 65 (87.7%) patients experienced slight throbbing sensations. During the lesion procedure, fever was detected on the head and face of 59 patients (90.8%), the heart rate decreased in 19 cases (29.2%), and restlessness, irritability and hyperalgia were noted for all patients. Among the 65 patients, 52 (80%) no longer experienced a psychological craving for the drug., Conclusions: The shell of the NAc may be a promising surgical target for psychosurgery. Electrophysiological recordings revealed that the shell is indeed an appropriate structure.

Objective: To evaluate three-dimensional (3D) finite element (FE) modeling of different periodontally compromised unilateral distal extension removable partial denture (RPD) abutments using the data of a 3D non-contact digitizing scanner., Methods: FE models were established, and the following structures were simulated in the models: alveolar bone, mucosa, abutments, periodontal ligaments, framework and artificial teeth. The alveolar bone and periodontal ligaments around the distal abutment in the three models were designed as normal, with bone defect and with periodontal ligaments defect respectively.Vertical or buccally inclined forces of 50, 100, 100 N were applied on the artificial teeth of the RPD and the stress distributions on the supporting tissues were calculated., Results: Under vertical loading, the maximal stress on the alveolar bone of the abutment were as follows: periodontal ligaments defect model (3.57 MPa) > bone defect model (3.21 MPa) > normal model (2.63 MPa). Under buccally inclined loading, the maximal stress on the alveolar bone of the abutment were as follows: periodontal ligaments defect model (2.50 MPa) > bone defect model (2.41 MPa) > normal model (1.79 MPa). Under buccally inclined loading, the stresses on distal aspects of the residual alveolar ridge were higher than that of the vertical loading model., Conclusions: 3D non-contact digitalizing scanner was useful for the finite element modeling process of removable partial denture.

Objectives: To investigate the applicability of color-difference formula (CIELAB or CIEDE2000) in visual color assessments of metal-ceramic specimens in small color-difference ranges., Methods: Metal-ceramic specimens using mixture of gradient ratio porcelain powders were fabricated to create a color pool. Color differences of specimen pairs were calculated using the CIELAB (ΔE(ab)(∗)) and CIEDE2000 (ΔE(00)). A questionnaire, composed of 1 target and 3 enactment specimens, was designed. For formula-determination, the enactment specimen with the minimum ΔE to the target specimen was registered as FS. For visual-assessment, twenty participants were asked to finish the questionnaire by choosing the most color-matched enactment specimen to the target. The percentage of the FS been selected (P(FS)) was calculated, which was used to represent the consistence of formula-determination and visual-assessment. Binomial Tests were used to compare the differences between P(FS) values and 33% (the randomized probability of the FS been selected was one out of three, approximate 33%). Regression analysis was used to determine the correlation between ΔE(ab)(∗) and ΔE(00) values., Results: A linear regression equation was drawn as ΔE(00)=-0.049+0.619×ΔE(ab)(∗). There were no significant differences between P(FS) values and 33% within the range of ΔE(ab)(∗)<2.0, whereas P(FS) values were significantly higher than 33% when ΔE(ab)(∗)>2.0 (P<0.001). There was a tendency of selecting the enactment specimens with lower L* values and higher b* or C' values, within the range of 1.0<ΔE(ab)(∗)<2.0., Conclusions: CIE color-difference formulas were not applicable for visual color assessments of metal-ceramic specimens within the color-difference range of ΔE(ab)(∗)<2.0., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

In order to supply new information on the antioxidant function of selected fruits for nutritionists and the general public, antioxidant activities and total phenolic contents of 62 fruits were evaluated using ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) assays as well as the Folin-Ciocalteu method, respectively. The correlations between the FRAP value and the TEAC value as well as total phenolic content were also assessed. The results showed that different fruits had diverse antioxidant capacities and the variation was very large, and seven fruits, Chinese date, pomegranate, guava, sweetsop, persimmon, Chinese wampee and plum, possessed the highest antioxidant capacities and total phenolic contents among tested fruits, and could be important dietary sources of natural antioxidants for prevention of diseases caused by oxidative stress., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: A 12-year-old boy was admitted for complaint of progressive urination disorder for over 2 years. Physical examination found dysesthesia in the perineal region and disappearance of anal reflex with anal relaxation and a spinal cleft in the sacrococcygeal region. Lumbosacral magnetic resonance imaging MRI showed a low-set of the spinal cord, tethered cord, spina bifida of sacral vertebrae, and meningocele combined with lipoma inside and outside of the spinal canal. Ultrasonography displayed a significantly increased residual urine volume. The diagnosis of tethered-cord syndrome resulting from mixed lipoma was thus established. During the microsurgery, the adhesions between the spinal cord, coccygeal nerve and lipoma were released with a laser scalpel, and the lipoma inside and outside of the spinal canal was excised, after which the dural defect was repaired. The patient recovered smoothly, and the urinary function was normal at the follow-up 6 months after the surgery. Spinal cord lipoma can be classified into 2 types based on the integrity of the dura mater, and in this case, a combined dural defect was found. A definite diagnosis can be derived from the clinical manifestations and MRI findings. Microsurgery remains the currently only effective treatment, and a favorable prognosis can be expected after an early surgical intervention, especially before the functional lesion of the spinal cord. The integrity of the local dura mater considerably affects the outcome of the treatment, and dural defect often leads to surgical difficulty and poor results. The key to a successful operation lies in a full release of the adhesion and avoidance of injury to the conus medullaris and cauda equina. A reoperation in case of recurrence should be carefully evaluated for its benefits.

Objective: The purposes of this study was to investigate the effects of luting agents on the resultant color of IPS e.max all-ceramic veneer restorations, and to evaluate the similarity of try-in pastes and the corresponding luting agents on the final color., Methods: Disc-shaped ceramic specimens were fabricated and seated on four shades of resin specimens to mimic the complex of ceramic veneer laying on tooth substrates. Try-in pastes and luting agents (Shades of TR, B0.5, A1, A3, W0) were applied into the inter-layer of ceramic and resin specimens, respectively. The color of the combinations was measured using a spectrophotometer and subsequently converted to CIE L*a*b* values. Color changes after luting agent applied, and between try-in paste and corresponding luting agent were calculated and registered as DeltaEresin and DeltaEpaste-resin., Results: DeltaEresin value of A2, A3 backgrounds was more than 1.0. DeltaEresin value of A4, A5 backgrounds was less than 1.0. The DeltaEpaste-resin value of A3 backgrounds was more than 1.0, whereas, A2 was less than 1.0 (except for shade W0). The DeltaEpaste-resin value of shade W0 was significantly different from other shades of luting agents., Conclusion: The color of ceramic veneer restorations were affected by luting agents with A2, and A3 background colors. The agreement of the try-in paste and the corresponding luting agent was excellent for A2 background (except for W0).

In order to supply new information on the antioxidant function of selected beverages for nutritionists and the general public, total phenolic contents of 51 kinds of herbal and tea infusions made in China were measured by the Folin-Ciocalteu method, and their antioxidant capacities were evaluated using ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) assays. A significant correlation between FRAP and TEAC values suggested that antioxidant components in these beverages were capable of reducing oxidants and scavenging free radicals. The high correlation between antioxidant capacities and total phenolic contents indicated that phenolic compounds could be one of the main components responsible for antioxidant activities of these beverages. Generally, these beverages had high antioxidant capacities and total phenolic contents, and could be important dietary sources of antioxidant phenolics for prevention of diseases caused by oxidative stress.

In order to identify wild fruits possessing high nutraceutical potential, the antioxidant activities of 56 wild fruits from South China were systematically evaluated. The fat-soluble components were extracted with tetrahydrofuran, and the water-soluble ones were extracted with a 50:3.7:46.3 (v/v) methanol-acetic acid-water mixture. The antioxidant capacities of the extracts were evaluated using the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) assays, and their total phenolic contents were measured by the Folin-Ciocalteu method. Most of these wild fruits were analyzed for the first time for their antioxidant activities. Generally, these fruits had high antioxidant capacities and total phenolic contents. A significant correlation between the FRAP value and the TEAC value suggested that antioxidant components in these wild fruits were capable of reducing oxidants and scavenging free radicals. A high correlation between antioxidant capacity and total phenolic content indicated that phenolic compounds could be the main contributors to the measured antioxidant activity. The results showed that fruits of Eucalyptus robusta, Eurya nitida, Melastoma sanguineum, Melaleuca leucadendron, Lagerstroemia indica, Caryota mitis, Lagerstroemia speciosa and Gordonia axillaris possessed the highest antioxidant capacities and total phenolic contents among those tested, and could be potential rich sources of natural antioxidants and functional foods. The results obtained are very helpful for the full utilization of these wild fruits.

Objective: To evaluate the colour regression of bleached teeth in four experimental environments, and to explore the relationship between colour change and bulk miners loss., Materials and Methods: Forty freshly extracted sound human incisors were in vitro treated using an in-office bleaching gel containing 38% hydroxide carbamide. The bleached teeth were subsequently divided into four groups and stored in four different environments: purified water, artificial saliva, a commercial remineralisation gel, and a desiccator. A spectrophotometer and a mu-CT were used to investigate the colour parameters (L*, a*, and b*) and the mineral content of the teeth pre- and post-bleaching. ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc analysis were performed to investigate the effect of time on the colour coordinates. Paired t-tests were used to compare the mineral content changes. Linear regression test was performed to explore the relationship of the colour coordinates and mineral content change in the colour regression process., Results: Colour regression occurred in the mineral containing environment accompanying with the mineral content remarkable increase in the outer layers of teeth tissue (P<0.05). No colour regression and mineral content change were found in the anhydrous environment (P>0.05). The regression of lightness is significantly correlated with the density change of teeth hard-tissue (P<0.001, r=0.611)., Conclusion: In this in-office bleaching system, the colour regression is mainly resulted by the reversal of lightness, and is correlated with the presence of the remineralisation processes within the teeth tissue., (Crown Copyright 2009. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objectives: To compare the optical characters of four translucent composites and natural enamel., Methods: Thirty natural enamel slabs and 120 composite replicas (n=30) using four brands of translucent composites (Polofil Supra, Brilliant Esthetic, Gradia Direct, and Vit-l-escence) were evaluated at the thicknesses of 1.0mm and 0.8mm. The colors of the enamel slabs or corresponding composite specimens placed on an A3 shade, white and black backgrounds were measured using a spectrophotometer. Color differences (ΔE*) of the enamel-composite pairs and translucency parameter (TP) of each specimen were calculated. Reflection spectrums were recorded in the wavelength from 380nm to 780nm. Paired-t tests were performed to evaluate the differences of color coordinates (L*, a*, and b*) and TP values between the translucent composites and natural enamel., Results: There were significant differences of color coordinates (L*, a*, and b*) between the enamel and translucent composites (P<0.05). Although no statistical difference of TP values were found in the enamel-composite pairs with Polofil Supra and Brilliant Esthetic composites. The main peaks of the reflectance spectrums of the enamel are different from the four brands of the translucent composites. A reddish shifting of the main reflection peaks was observed, while the thickness of the composite specimens decreasing from 1.0mm to 0.8mm. Whereas, the main reflection peak was not changed in the teeth enamel., Conclusions: The color and the translucency of translucent composites are different from the teeth enamel., (Crown Copyright © 2010. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Unlabelled: Fifty-nine cases with angina pectoris (AP) in coronary heart disease were divided randomly into two groups, 37 cases of Hehuantang group (HT) treated with Hehuantang, 22 cases of patient treated with nifedipine tablet was taken as control group (CG)., The Results: (1) the marked effective and total effective rate in allevating AP was 75.68% and 91.89% in HT respectively; (2) activities of serum SOD and whole blood GSH-Px in HT significantly elevated than that pretreatmentally (P < 0.01); (3) comparing with CG, SOD activity and GSH-Px/LPO ratio increased (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05), whereas plasma LPO content lowered (P < 0.05). It suggested that HT having effects of relieve AP and enhance antioxidative activity and attenuate lipid peroxide reaction. The mechanism might be correlated to inhibit the calcium overload and reduce LPO production in cardiac cell as well as improve blood supply to myocardial ischemia.