Journal of the Chinese Medical Association : JCMA
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Identifying positive bronchodilator reversibility (BDR) helps the diagnosis of asthma. However, not all patients can adequately perform the forced expiration during the spirometry test. An alternative test is required. Impulse oscillometry (IOS) is an effort-independent technique that enables the measurement of lung mechanics during quiet tidal breathing. We investigated the potentiality of IOS to evaluate BDR in untreated adult patients with newly diagnosed asthma (UAPNDS). ⋯ In addition to spirometry, ΔAx (%), an IOS parameter, may serve as a novel indicator to evaluate BDR in UAPNDS.
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The development of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has gained reputation from its therapeutic potential in stem cell regeneration, anti-inflammation, tumor suppression, and drug delivery treatment. Previous studies have shown MSCs have both promoting and suppressing effects against cancer cells. While the limitation of obtaining a large quantity of homologous MSCs for studies and treatment remains a challenge, an alternative approach involving the production of MSCs derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs; induced MSCs [iMSCs]) may be a promising prospect given its ability to undergo prolonged passage and with similar therapeutic profiles as that of their MSC counterparts. However, the influence of iMSC in the interaction of cancer cells remains to be explored as such studies are not well established. In this study, we aim to differentiate iPSCs into MSC-like cells as a potential substitute for adult MSCs and evaluate its effect on non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). ⋯ Our results have shown that iMSCs may suppress the growth of H1975 by releasing proapoptotic cytokines into coculture media. Using iPSC-derived MSC models allows a deeper study of tumor cross talk between MSC and cancer cells that can be applied for potential future cancer therapy.
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Total thyroidectomy is the treatment of choice for multinodular goiter (MNG). In some of these cases, incidental thyroid cancer (ITC) is detected postoperatively. Papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC), the most common type of ITC, has clinical factors and pathologic similarities with ITC that have not been well clarified previously. We investigated the incidence and characteristics of ITC and PTMC in euthyroid patients undergoing total thyroidectomy for MNG. ⋯ Younger age is a clinical factor for ITC and PTMC. We recommend taking considering clinical factors and pathologic characteristics of ITC and PTC when considering total thyroidectomy in euthyroid patients with MNG.
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To evaluate the clinical and imaging presentation, management, and outcome of iatrogenic retroperitoneal hematomas (IRPHs) during a series of neurointerventional procedures (NIPs). ⋯ Unexplained periprocedural or postprocedural abdominal/flank pain, especially contralateral to the femoral access side of the NIPs, should raise the possibility of IRPH. To prevent IRPH, the authors suggest using full visual fluoroscopic monitoring for guidewire navigation during femoral catheterization of NIPs.