The International journal of neuroscience
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The previous studies suggested that low-dose lipopolysaccharide (LPS) provides neuroprotection against subsequent challenge with ischemic/reperfusion injury in the brain. But there were few reports about the neuroprotective effects of low-dose LPS against spinal cord injury (SCI). In this study, we evaluated the effect of low-dose LPS preconditioning on neuroapoptosis status after traumatic SCI (TSCI), using a standardized contusion model (NYU, New York University, impactor). ⋯ LPS preconditioning reduced neuron apoptosis, improved neurologic outcome and actived Nrf2 expression. Moreover, Histological changes and the number of apoptotic cells were correlated with Nrf2 expression after the rats suffered the SCI. Our results suggest that LPS preconditioning exerted a neuroprotective effect against TSCI in rats, and activation of Nrf2 was believed to be one of the contributing mechanisms.
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There is evidence that neuropathic pain component in low back pain (LBP) patients is associated with higher ratings of comorbidities such as depression and anxiety disorders. In line with current findings, the purpose of this clinical study is to examine a hypothesis regarding a relationship of neuropathic pain component, depression, and other psychopathological symptoms in a specific group of LBP patients with sciatica pain. ⋯ Results of the present study show that increased neuropathic pain component in sciatica patients is associated with elevated levels of depression, anxiety, alexithymia, and serum CRP levels. In conclusion, results of this study indicate that CRP levels in sciatica patients are closely associated with neuropathic pain.
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Little is known about health-related quality of life (HRQoL) after stroke in Chinese populations. We conducted the present study to evaluate HRQoL after stroke in a group of Chinese patients. We followed 114 patients diagnosed with a first-ever stroke for 2 years. ⋯ Our results suggest that HRQoL greatly improved 2 years after discharge in patients with stroke. This study also confirmed the usefulness of the HRQoL assessment for prognosis evaluation in patients after stroke. Further studies from Chinese populations are still warranted.
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Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an important health issue with high prevalence. The most common type of TBI is mild TBI (MTBI). MTBI is known as a condition with self-limited symptoms; however, it could cause some structural abnormalities of brain and become complicated. ⋯ Rehospitalization was increased in the patients with altered level of consciousness. The size of brain contusion increased in two patients without further need for neurosurgical intervention. Contusion alone did not worsen the prognosis of patients in short-term follow-up and did not cause neurosurgical interventions.