Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Antibiotic-Impregnated Shunt Catheters on Anti-Infective Effect of Hydrocephalus Shunt

Zhou, Wen-xiu,Hou, Wen-bo,Zhou, Chao,Yin, Yu-xia,Lu, Shou-tao,Liu, Guang,Fang, Yi,Li, Jian-wen,Wang, Yan,Liu, Ai-hua,Zhang, Hai-jun The Korean Neurosurgical Society 2021 Journal of Korean neurosurgical society Vol.64 No.2

Objective : Shunt infection is a common complication while treating hydrocephalus. The antibiotic-impregnated shunt catheter (AISC) was designed to reduce shunt infection rate. A meta-analysis was conducted to study the effectiveness of AISCs in reduction of shunt infection in terms of age, follow-up time and high-risk patient population. Methods : This study reviewed literature from three databases including PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library (from 2000 to March 2019). Clinical studies from controlled trials for shunt operation were included in this analysis. A subgroup analysis was performed based on the patient's age, follow-up time and high-risk population. The fixed effect in RevMan 5.3 software (Cochrane Collaboration) was used for this meta-analysis. Results : This study included 19 controlled clinical trials including 10105 operations. The analysis demonstrated that AISC could reduce the infection rate in shunt surgery compared to standard shunt catheter (non-AISC) from 8.13% to 4.09% (odds ratio [OR], 0.48; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.40-0.58; p=0.01; I2=46%). Subgroup analysis of different age groups showed that AISC had significant antimicrobial effects in all three groups (adult, infant, and adolescent). Follow-up time analysis showed that AISC was effective in preventing early shunt infections (within 6 months after implant). AISC is more effective in high-risk population (OR, 0.24;95% CI, 0.14-0.40; p=0.60; I2=0%) than in general patient population. Conclusion : The results of meta-analysis indicated that AISC is an effective method for reducing shunt infection. We recommend that AISC should be considered for use in infants and high-risk groups. For adult patients, the choice for AISC could be determined based on the treatment cost.

Comparison of the Effects of Propofol and Midazolam on Inflammation and Oxidase Stress in Children with Congenital Heart Disease Undergoing Cardiac Surgery

Wen-fang Xia,Qing-shan Zhou,Yu Liu,Qi-zhu Tang,Han-dong Zou 연세대학교의과대학 2011 Yonsei medical journal Vol.52 No.2

Purpose: To investigate and compare the effects of propofol and midazolam on inflammation and oxidase stress in children with congenital heart disease undergoing cardiac surgery. Materials and Methods: Thirty-two ASA class I-II children with congenital heart disease undergoing cardiac surgery were randomly divided into two groups: propofol combined with low dose fentanyl (PF group, n = 16) and midazolam combined with low dose fentanyl (MF group, n = 16). Tracheal extubation time and length of Intensive Care Unit (ICU) stay were recorded. Blood samples were taken before operation (T_0), at 2 h after release of the aorta cross-clamp (T_3) and at 24 h after operation (T_4) to measure interleukin 6 (IL-6), IL-8, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Myocardium samples were collected at 10-20 min after aorta cross-clamp (T_1) and at 10-20 min after the release of the aorta cross-clamp (T_2) to detect heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression. Results: Tracheal extubation time and length of ICU stay in PF group were significantly shorter than those of the MF group (p < 0.05, respectively). After cardiopulmonary bypass, IL-6, IL-8 and MDA levels were significantly increased, and the SOD level was significantly reduced in both two groups, but PF group exhibited lower IL-6, IL-8 and MDA levels and higher SOD levels than the MF group (p < 0.05, respectively). The HO-1 expression in the PF group was significantly higher than that in MF group at the corresponding time points (p < 0.05, respectively). Conclusion: Propofol is superior to midazolam in reducing inflammation and oxidase stress and in improving post-operation recovery in children with congenital heart disease undergoing cardiac surgery.

Measurement of neutron cross sections and resonance parameters of ¹⁶⁹Tm below 100 eV

Wen-Ming, Wang,Xia, Li,Zhi-Xiang, Zhao,Zu-Ying, Zhou,Hong-Wei, Yu,Hai-Cheng, Wu,Yi-Xiang, Wei,Wang, T. F.,Kim, G. N.,Lee, M. W.,Kim, K. S.,Cho, M. H.,Ko, I. S.,Namkung, W. science press 2010 Chinese physics. C Vol.34 No.2

<P>The neutron total cross-sections of thulium (<SUP>169</SUP>Tm) were measured in the neutron energy region from 0.01 eV to 100 eV by using the time-of-flight method at the Pohang Neutron Facility, which consists of an electron linac, a water-cooled tantalum target with a water moderator, and a 12 m time of flight path. Two thulium plates with different thicknesses were used for the neutron transmission measurement. The background level was determined by using a notch-filter of Co, In, and Cd sheets. The present measurement was compared with the previous ones, and a new set of resonance parameters of <SUP>169</SUP>Tm isotope was obtained from the transmission rate by using the SAMMY code, with a comparison with the recommended parameters by Mughabghab.</P>

Mitochondrial DNA Levels in Blood and Tissue Samples from Breast Cancer Patients of Different Stages

Xia, Peng,Wang, Hui-Juan,Geng, Ting-Ting,Xun, Xiao-Jie,Zhou, Wen-Jing,Jin, Tian-Bo,Chen, Chao Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention 2014 Asian Pacific journal of cancer prevention Vol.15 No.3

Aims: Alterations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) have been implicated in carcinogenesis and tumor progression. We here evaluated the diagnostic and prognostic potential of mtDNA as a biomarker for breast cancer. Methods: Using multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction, nuclear DNA (nDNA) and mtDNA levels in serum, buffy coat, tumor, and tumor-adjacent tissue samples from 50 breast cancer patients were determined and assessed for associations with clinicopathological features. To evaluate mtDNA as a biomarker for distinguishing between the four sample types, we created receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Results: The mtDNA levels in buffy coat were significantly lower than in other sample types. Relative to tumor-adjacent tissue, reduced levels of mtDNA were identified in buffy coat and tumor tissue but not in serum. According to ROC curve analysis, mtDNA levels could be used to distinguish between buffy coat and tumor-adjacent tissue samples with good sensitivity (77%) and specificity (83%). Moreover, mtDNA levels in serum and tumor tissue were positively associated with cancer TMN stage. Conclusions: The mtDNA levels in blood samples may represent a promising, non-invasive biomarker in breast cancer patients. Additional, large-scale validation studies are required to establish the potential use of mtDNA levels in the early diagnosis and monitoring of breast cancer.

Automatic Detection and Classification of Rib Fractures on Thoracic CT Using Convolutional Neural Network: Accuracy and Feasibility

Zhou Qing-Qing,Wang Jiashuo,Tang Wen,Hu Zhang-Chun,Xia Zi-Yi,Xue-Song Li,Zhang Rongguo,Yin Xindao,Zhang Bing,Zhang Hong 대한영상의학회 2020 Korean Journal of Radiology Vol.21 No.7

Objective: To evaluate the performance of a convolutional neural network (CNN) model that can automatically detect and classify rib fractures, and output structured reports from computed tomography (CT) images. Materials and Methods: This study included 1079 patients (median age, 55 years; men, 718) from three hospitals, between January 2011 and January 2019, who were divided into a monocentric training set (n = 876; median age, 55 years; men, 582), five multicenter/multiparameter validation sets (n = 173; median age, 59 years; men, 118) with different slice thicknesses and image pixels, and a normal control set (n = 30; median age, 53 years; men, 18). Three classifications (fresh, healing, and old fracture) combined with fracture location (corresponding CT layers) were detected automatically and delivered in a structured report. Precision, recall, and F1-score were selected as metrics to measure the optimum CNN model. Detection/diagnosis time, precision, and sensitivity were employed to compare the diagnostic efficiency of the structured report and that of experienced radiologists. Results: A total of 25054 annotations (fresh fracture, 10089; healing fracture, 10922; old fracture, 4043) were labelled for training (18584) and validation (6470). The detection efficiency was higher for fresh fractures and healing fractures than for old fractures (F1-scores, 0.849, 0.856, 0.770, respectively, p = 0.023 for each), and the robustness of the model was good in the five multicenter/multiparameter validation sets (all mean F1-scores > 0.8 except validation set 5 [512 x 512 pixels; F1-score = 0.757]). The precision of the five radiologists improved from 80.3% to 91.1%, and the sensitivity increased from 62.4% to 86.3% with artificial intelligence-assisted diagnosis. On average, the diagnosis time of the radiologists was reduced by 73.9 seconds. Conclusion: Our CNN model for automatic rib fracture detection could assist radiologists in improving diagnostic efficiency, reducing diagnosis time and radiologists’ workload.

Analysis and Correction of Through-bolt End-region Overheating and Breakdown Failure in a Large Tubular Hydro-generator

Zhou, Zhi-ting,Fan, Zhen-nan,Li, Jian-fu,Wen, Kun,Zhang, Bide,Wang, Tao,Xia, Yan-kun,Sun, Zhang,Yao, Bing The Korean Institute of Electrical Engineers 2018 Journal of Electrical Engineering & Technology Vol.13 No.6

A field-circuit coupling model of a typical faulty generator is established to correct through-bolt end-region overheating and breakdown failure in a tubular hydro-generator. Using the model, eddy current loss and electromagnetic forces on through bolts under normal and failure conditions are analyzed and compared and the natural frequency of a through bolt is determined. Based on the analysis results, the causative mechanism of failure is revealed and targeted improvement design measures are proposed. The numerical results are found to be consistent with the actual fault characteristics, validating the design measure improvements. The results are useful in improving the design and manufacturing standards and enhancing the operational reliability of large tubular hydro-generators.

Experimental Study on Inhibition Effects of the XAF1 Gene against Lung Cancer Cell Proliferation

Yang, Wen-Tao,Chen, Dong-Lai,Zhang, Fu-Quan,Xia, Ying-Chen,Zhu, Rong-Ying,Zhou, Duan-Shan,Chen, Yong-Bing Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention 2014 Asian Pacific journal of cancer prevention Vol.15 No.18

Objective: To investigate the effect of high expression of XAF1 in vivo or in vitro on lung cancer cell growth and apoptosis. Methods: 1. The A549 human lung cancer cell line was transfected with Ad5/F35 - XAF1, or Ad5/F35 - Null at the same multiplicity of infection (MOI); (hereinafter referred to as transient transfected cell strain); XAF1 gene mRNA and protein expression was detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blotting respectively. 2. Methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) and annexin V-FITC/PI double staining were used to detect cell proliferation and apoptosis before and after infection of Ad5/F35 - XAF1 with Western blotting for apoptosis related proteins, caspase 3, caspase - 8 and PARP. 3. After the XAF1 gene was transfected into lung cancer A549 cells by lentiviral vectors, and selected by screening with Blasticidin, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blotting were applied to detect mRNA and protein expression, to establish a line with a stable high expression of XAF1 (hereinafter referred to as stable expression cell strain). Twenty nude mice were randomly divided into groups A and B, 10 in each group: A549/XAF1 stable expression cell strain was subcutaneously injected in group A, and A549/Ctrl stable cell line stable expression cell strain in group B (control group), to observe transplanted tumor growth in nude mice. Results: The mRNA and protein expression of XAF1 in A549 cells transfected by Ad5/F35 - XAF1 was significantly higher than in the control group. XAF1 mediated by adenovirus vector demonstrated a dose dependent inhibition of lung cancer cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis. This was accompanied by cleavage of caspase -3, -8, -9 and PARP, suggesting activation of intrinsic or extrinsic apoptotic pathways. A cell strain of lung cancer highly expressing XAF1 was established, and this demonstrated delayed tumor growth after transplantation in vivo. Conclusion: Adenovirus mediated XAF1 gene expression could inhibit proliferation and induce apoptosis in lung cancer cells in vitro; highly stable expression of XAF1 could also significantly inhibit the growth of transplanted tumors in nude mouse, with no obvious adverse reactions observed. Therefore, the XAF1 gene could become a new target for lung cancer treatment.

Pharmacoeconomics Evaluation of Morphine, MS Contin and Oxycodone in the Treatment of Cancer Pain

Zhang, Wen-Zhou,Yu, Wei-Jiang,Zhao, Xiu-Li,He, Bao-Xia Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention 2014 Asian Pacific journal of cancer prevention Vol.15 No.20

Objective: To analyze cost-effectiveness of morphine, MS contin and oxycodone in the treatment of cancer pain, providing guidance for rational drug use in the clinic. Methods: Confirmed by histology, a total of 171 patients with various cancers who required analgesic treatment were selected and divided into 3 groups, 57 cases for each group, given morphine, MS contin and oxycodone, respectively. If there appeared a poor short-term effect or aggravated sudden pain during the treatment, a short-acting morphine injection was given and adverse reactions were processed by symptomatic treatment. The pain relief rate and adverse reactions of groups were observed and pharmacoeconomics evaluation was undertaken. Results: The pain relief rates with morphine, MS contin and oxycodone were 89.5%(51/57), 91.2%(52/57) and 93.0%(53/57), respectively, with no difference samong groups (${\chi}^2=4.4489$, P=0.6162). The occurrence rates of adverse reactions were 59.7%(34/57), 54.4%(31/57) and 43.9%(25/57), again with no significant variation (P>0.05). The ratios of cost-effectiveness (C/E) for the 3 groups were $14.6{\pm}7.21$, $15.0{\pm}7.44$ and $16.1{\pm}8.10$. When the price of 3 kinds of analgesics was reduced by 10%, the ratios of cost-effectiveness were $12.2{\pm}6.53$, ($13.4{\pm}6.08$ and $14.5{\pm}6.74$ but there was no differences when compared with before the price adjustment (t=1.86, P=0.0651; t=1.30, P=0.1948; t=1.17, P=0.2453). Conclusion: Morphine, MS contin and oxycodone give similar pain relief and adverse reaction rates but of all, morphine is the preferred drug for the treatment of cancer pain from the perspective of pharmacoeconomics.

Study on a New Method for Forming Integral Curved-Hole Structures by Combining Drilling and Plastic Deformation

Yin Zhou,Tong Wen,Xia Chen,Longqin Liu,Fan Yang,Yu Zheng 한국정밀공학회 2022 International Journal of Precision Engineering and Vol.23 No.8

Structures with curved-holes are of great value for industrial application, but how to realize the formation of integral curved hole is still a huge challenge. In the current study, a novel methodology, called Bulk Forming of Curved Hole (BFCH), was proposed to obtain integral structures with curved holes by combining traditional drilling and plastic forming processes. An analytic formula of cross-section distortion in BFCH was derived based on the upper bound method. The formula shows the influence of three factors, including the bending angle θ, billet thickness-to-hole diameter ratio h/d , and material properties index Øk related to material strength, on the wall collapse of the curved hole formed. Moreover, three types of curved holes were designed to verify the concept, and the results of experiments and fi nite element simulation using Al6061 specimens proved that the method is feasible to form integral structures with inside curved-holes. The oval-shaped distortion of the hole cross-sections is the main defect, which increases with the bending angle θ , as well as the value of h/d and Øk. In addition, proper initial temperature difference inside the billet can decrease the distortion of the formed holes.

Thyroid Hormone Reference Intervals among Healthy Individuals In Lanzhou, China

Yan Lu,Wen-Xia Zhang,De-Hong Li,Lian-Hua Wei,Yu-Jun Zhang,Fu-Na Shi,Shen Zhou 대한내분비학회 2023 Endocrinology and metabolism Vol.38 No.3

Background: The common reference intervals (RIs) for thyroid hormones currently used in China are provided by equipment manufacturers. This study aimed to establish thyroid hormone RIs in the population of Lanzhou, a city in the subplateau region of northwest China, and compare them with previous reports and manufacturer-provided values. Methods: In total, 3,123 individuals (1,680 men, 1,443 women) from Lanzhou, an iodine-adequate area of China, perceived ashealthy were selected. The Abbott Architect analyzer was used to determine the serum concentration of thyroid hormones. The 95%RI was estimated using the 2.5th and 97.5th percentiles as the lower and upper reference limits, respectively. Results: The serum levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), total triiodothyronine (TT3), antithyroglobulin (ATG) antibody,and antithyroid peroxidase (ATPO) antibody levels were significantly correlated with sex (P<0.05). TSH, total thyroxine (TT4), andATPO levels were significantly correlated with age (P<0.05). The serum levels of TSH, ATG, and ATPO in men were significantlylower than in women; in contrast, the serum TT3 level was significantly higher in men than in women (P<0.05). Serum TSH, TT3,TT4, and ATG levels differed across age groups (P<0.05), but no such variation was observed for ATG levels (P>0.05). The established RIs of TSH, ATG, and ATPO in this study differed between sexes (P<0.05). The thyroid hormone RIs established herein wereinconsistent with the manufacturer-provided values. Conclusion: The RIs of thyroid hormones in the healthy population of Lanzhou were inconsistent with those in the manufacturer’smanual. Validated sex-specific values are required for diagnosing thyroid diseases.