PGD: Shared gene linking polycystic ovary syndrome and endometrial cancer, influencing proliferation and migration through glycometabolism.

The relationship among polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometrial cancer (EC), and glycometabolism remains unclear. We explored shared genes between PCOS and EC, using bioinformatics to unveil their pathogenic connection and influence on EC prognosis. Gene Expression Omnibus datasets GSE226146 (PCOS) and GSE196033 (EC) were used. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed to identify the central genes. Candidate markers were screened using dataset GSE54250. Differences in marker expression were confirmed in mouse PCOS and human EC tissues using RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. The effect of PGD on EC proliferation and migration was explored using Ki-67 and Transwell assays. PGD's impact on the glycometabolic pathway within carbon metabolism was assessed by quantifying glucose content and lactic acid production. R software identified 31 common genes in GSE226146 and GSE196033. Gene Ontology functional classification revealed enrichment in the "purine nucleoside triphosphate metabolism process," with key Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways related to "carbon metabolism." The PPI network identified 15 hub genes. HK2, NDUFS8, PHGDH, PGD, and SMAD3 were confirmed as candidate markers. The RT-PCR analysis validated distinct HK2 and PGD expression patterns in mouse PCOS ovarian tissue and human EC tissue, as well as in normal and EC cells. Transfection experiments with Ishikawa cells further confirmed PGD's influence on cell proliferation and migration. Suppression of PGD expression impeded glycometabolism within the carbon metabolism of EC cells, suggesting PGD as a significant PCOS risk factor impacting EC proliferation and migration through modulation of single carbon metabolism. These findings highlight PGD's pivotal role in EC onset and prognosis.

Core-Shell Fluorescent Polymeric Particles with Tunable White Light Emission Based on Aggregation Microenvironment Manipulation.

White-light emitting polymers (WLEPs) based on aggregation microenvironment-sensitive aggregation-induced emission (AIE) and Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) have aroused great interest in lighting and optoelectronic devices. Herein, we developed a novel strategy to construct WLEP particles via a stepwise self-stabilized precipitation polymerization of two emission-complementary AIEgens under core-shell engineering, where the AIE characteristics and FRET process of core-shell fluorescent polymeric particles (CS-FPPs) could be modulated by altering aggregation microenvironment under swelling and shrinking of polymers, facilitating the tunable white light emission of CS-FPPs. Furthermore, such tuning could be fast realized in the solid state, thus demonstrating the potential in anti-counterfeiting. This work proved the significance of aggregation microenvironment on emission of luminogens, guiding the development of high-efficiency emission-tunable materials.

Fluorescence Self-Reporting Precipitation Polymerization Based on Aggregation-Induced Emission for Constructing Optical Nanoagents.

Precipitation polymerization is becoming increasingly popular in energy, environment and biomedicine. However, its proficient utilization highly relies on the mechanistic understanding of polymerization process. Now, a fluorescence self-reporting method based on aggregation-induced emission (AIE) is used to shed light on the mechanism of precipitation polymerization. The nucleation and growth processes during the copolymerization of a vinyl-modified AIEgen, styrene, and maleic anhydride can be sensitively monitored in real time. The phase-separation and dynamic hardening processes can be clearly discerned by tracking fluorescence changes. Moreover, polymeric fluorescent particles (PFPs) with uniform and tunable sizes can be obtained in a self-stabilized manner. These PFPs exhibit biolabeling and photosensitizing abilities and are used as superior optical nanoagents for photo-controllable immunotherapy, indicative of their great potential in biomedical applications.

Enhancing MRI through high loading of superparamagnetic nanogels with high sensitivity to the tumor environment.

Tumors pose a significant threat to human health, and their occurrence and fatality rates are on the rise each year. Accurate tumor diagnosis is crucial in preventing untimely treatment and late-stage metastasis, thereby reducing mortality. To address this, we have developed a novel type of hybrid nanogel called γ-Fe2O3@PNIPAM/PAm/CTS, which contains iron oxide nanoparticles and poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide)/polyacrylamide/chitosan. The rationale for this study relies on the concept that thermosensitive PNIPAM has the ability to contract when exposed to elevated temperature conditions found within tumors. This contraction leads to a dense clustering of the high-loading γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles within the nanogel, thus greatly enhancing the capabilities of MRI. Additionally, the amino groups in chitosan on the particle surface can be converted into ammonium salts under mildly acidic conditions, allowing for an increase in the charge of the nanogel specifically at the slightly acidic tumor site. Consequently, it promotes the phagocytosis of tumor cells and effectively enhances the accumulation and retention of nanogels at the tumor site. The synthesis of the hybrid nanogels involves a surfactant-free emulsion copolymerization process, where vinyl-modified γ-Fe2O3 superparamagnetic nanoparticles are copolymerized with the monomers in the presence of chitosan. We have optimized various reaction parameters to achieve a high loading content of the superparamagnetic nanoparticles, reaching up to 60%. The achieved r 2 value of 517.74 mM-1 S-1 significantly surpasses that of the clinical imaging contrast agent Resovist (approximately 151 mM-1 S-1). To assess the performance of these magnetic nanogels, we conducted experiments using Cal27 oral tumors and 4T1 breast tumors in animal models. The nanogels exhibited temperature- and pH-sensitivity, enabling magnetic targeting and enhancing diagnosis through MRI. The results demonstrated the potential of these hybrid nanogels as contrast agents for magnetic targeting in biomedical applications.

Transport characteristics of heavy metals in the soil-atmosphere-wheat system in farming areas and development of multiple linear regression predictive model.

Heavy metal accumulation in agricultural products has become a major concern. Previous studies have focused on the transport of heavy metals from the soil and their accumulation in crops. However, recent studies revealed that wheat leaves, ears, and awns can also transport and accumulate heavy metals. Wheat grains can be influenced by two sources of heavy metals: soil contamination and atmospheric deposition. To comprehend the transport characteristics of heavy metals in soil, atmospheric deposition, and wheat, 37 samples each for wheat rhizosphere soil, wheat roots, stems, leaves, and grains were collected. Fifteen samples of atmospheric dry deposition and atmospheric wet deposition were collected from Linshu County (northern area), China. Based on the test data, the characteristics of heavy metals and their distribution in the study area were analyzed. Migration patterns of heavy metals in crops from different sources were investigated using Pearson correlation and redundancy analysis. Finally, a predictive model for heavy metals in wheat grains was developed using multiple linear regression analysis. Significant disparities in the distribution of heavy metals existed among wheat roots, stems, leaves, and grains. The coefficient of variation of heavy metals in atmospheric deposition was relatively high, indicating discernible spatial patterns influenced by human activities. Notably, a positive correlation was observed between the concentration of heavy metals in wheat grains and atmospheric deposition of Hg, Cd, and Pb. Conversely, Zn and Ni levels in wheat grains were significantly negatively associated with soil Zn, Ni, pH, and OM content. The contribution of heavy metal elements from different sources varied in their impact on the grain's heavy metal content. Specifically, atmospheric deposition was the primary source of Hg and Pb in wheat grains, while Cd, Ni, Cu, and Zn were predominantly derived from soil. Using a multiple linear regression model, we could accurately predict Hg, Pb, Cd, Ni, Zn, and As concentrations in crop grains. This model can facilitate quantitative evaluation of ecological risk of heavy metals accumulation in crops in the study area.

Latest advances in the study of non-coding RNA-mediated circadian rhythm disorders causing endometrial cancer.

Endometrial cancer (EC) is one of the most common gynecological cancers, and its risk factors include obesity and metabolic, genetic, and other factors. Recently, the circadian rhythm has also been shown to be associated with EC, as the severity of EC was found to be related to night work and rhythm disorders. Therefore, circadian rhythm disorders (CRDs) may be one of the metabolic diseases underlying EC. Changes in the circadian rhythm are regulated by clock genes (CGs), which in turn are regulated by non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). More importantly, the mechanism of EC caused by ncRNA-mediated CRDs is gradually being unraveled. Here, we review existing studies and reports and explore the relationship between EC, CRDs, and ncRNAs.

Scaffold-Free Strategy Using a PEG-Dextran Aqueous Two-Phase-System for Corneal Tissue Repair.

Forming thin tissue constructs with minimal extracellular matrix surrounding them is important for tissue engineering applications. Here, we explore and optimize a strategy that enables rapid fabrication of scaffold-free corneal tissue constructs using the liquid-liquid interface of an aqueous two-phase system (ATPS) that is based on biocompatible polymers, dextran and polyethylene glycol. Intact tissue-like constructs, made of corneal epithelial or endothelial cells, can be formed on the interface between the two liquid phases of ATPS within hours and subsequently collected simply by removing the liquid phases. The formed corneal cell constructs express essential physiological markers and have preserved viability and proliferative ability in vitro. The corneal epithelial cell constructs are also able to re-epithelialize the corneal epithelial wound in vitro. The results suggest the promise of our reported strategy in corneal repair.

Silicone oil in vitreoretinal surgery: indications, complications, new developments and alternative long-term tamponade agents.

Silicone oil (SO) has been used as a long-term tamponade agent in the treatment of complicated vitreoretinal diseases for about half a century, during which time many advances in surgical techniques and technologies have been made. This review summarizes the chemical and physical properties of SO, its indications and complications, including particularly emulsification. The mechanisms and risk factors for emulsification are discussed, as well as novel strategies for its effective removal. Finally, the review focuses on new improved formulations of SO, including research into slow-release pharmacological agents within SO and provides an overview of alternatives to SO for the purpose of long-term tamponade that are being developed.

What Is the Cause of Toxicity of Silicone Oil?

PURPOSE: To investigate the toxicity of the low-molecular-weight components (LMWCs) in ophthalmic silicone oils (SilOils) on retinal cell lines. METHODS: The toxicity of six types of LMWCs were studied and compared with conventional SilOil 1000 cSt. In vitro cytotoxic tests of LMWCs, in both liquid and emulsified forms, on three retinal cell lines (Müller cells (rMC-1), photoreceptor cells (661W) and retinal pigment epithelial cells (ARPE-19)) were conducted using a transwell cell culturing system. The morphology and viability of cells were assessed by light microscopy and Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay at different time points (6, 24 and 72 h). The ARPE-19 apoptotic pathway was investigated by Mitochondrial Membrane Potential/Annexin V Apoptosis Kit at different time points (6, 24 and 72 h). RESULTS: Apart from dodecamethylpentasiloxane (L5), all liquid LMWCs showed varying degrees of acute cytotoxicity on retinal cell lines within 72 h. Emulsified LMWCs showed comparable cytotoxicity with liquid LMWCs on retinal cell lines. Cyclic LMWCs, octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4) and decamethylcyclopentasiloxane (D5) had significantly higher cytotoxicity when compared with their linear counterparts decamethyltetrasiloxane (L4) and L5 with similar molecular formula. Using ARPE-19 cells as an example, we showed that LMWCs induce the apoptosis of retinal cells. CONCLUSIONS: Most LMWCs, in both liquid and emulsified forms, can induce acute cytotoxicity. In addition, cyclic LMWCs are suspected to have higher cytotoxicity than their linear counterparts. Therefore, LMWCs are suspected to be the main cause of the long-term toxicity of ophthalmic SilOil, due to their toxicity and propensity to cause ophthalmic SilOil to emulsify. The amount of LMWCs should be considered as the paramount parameter when referring to the quality of SilOil.

Effect of the international pharmacy education programs: A pilot evaluation based on Kirkpatrick's model.

Globalization has attracted much attention to universities over the past decade. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the United States-China international pharmacy education programs (IPEP) in China.Kirkpatrick's model of evaluation was used to evaluate IPEP from reaction and learning levels. In the reaction level, a questionnaire survey with a Likert scale was used. In the learning level, data from "Assessment Record of Advanced Clinical Pharmacy Practice of Peking University" were collected. Cronbach' α coefficient of reliability was calculated, principal component analysis and independent t-test were conducted.All of the students who attended IPEP (n = 36) completed the questionnaire survey. The scores of benefits were increased in 4 categories, including "Clinical practice competency improvement" (mean ranking [MR] = 3.11 points), "Understanding of doctor of Pharmacy education mode" (MR = 3.48 points), "English competency improvement" (MR = 3.64 points) and "International collaboration" (MR = 3.92 points). Meanwhile, the overall satisfaction was relatively high with the IPEP (MR = 4.22 points). In the learning level, a total of 22 records was obtained. Students who attended (n = 5) the IPEP achieved higher scores than those did not attend (n = 17) in the assessment records, although no statistical significant differences were observed. Personal in-depth interviews further supported the overall benefit of IPEP.The Kirkpatrick model of evaluation can be used for IPEP. The benefit and satisfaction of students attended the IPEP were high in the reaction level; even though no statistically significant difference was shown in the learning level, higher scores were still demonstrated.

Magnetic/Gold Core-Shell Hybrid Particles for Targeting and Imaging-Guided Photothermal Cancer Therapy.

The development of hybrid particles for tumor diagnosis and therapy has received considerable attention because they are capable of combining tumor diagnosis and treatment concurrently. So far hybrid particles for efficient and safe tumor theranostics are still very limited. Herein we have designed a new type of hybrid particles and evaluated its potential to be used in image-guided cancer diagnosis and therapy without the need of any toxic anticancer or contrast agents. The hybrid particles, consist of magnetic nanoparticles which are embedded in the poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) cores and gold shells on chitosan (CTS) (γ-Fe2O3 @PMMA/CTS@Au). The hybrid particles were synthesized through initial formation of the core-shell structured γ-Fe2O3 @PMMA/CTS particles containing approximately 20% loading of magnetic nanoparticles. A gold layer was then built on top of the core-shell magnetic particles via a reduction of gold salt by amines from the chitosan assisted with the reducing agent NaBH4, followed by growing to complete gold shells in the presence of ascorbic acid (42.6% Au content). The properties of the composite particles including their chemical composition, morphology, particle size, size distribution, surface charge, magnetic responsiveness and photothermal ability were systematically characterized. The potential application of the γ-Fe2O3 @PMMA/CTS@Au hybrid particles in tumor diagnosis and therapy was assessed in vitro and in vivo using 4T1 tumor cells and 4T1 tumor-bearing mice through combining magnetic targeting, photoacoustic (PA)/computed tomography (CT) imaging and photothermal therapy. Results suggest that the γ-Fe2O3 @PMMA/CTS@Au particles can serve as a multifunctional tumor theranostic nanoplatform for magnetically targeted photothermal therapy. Breast cancer has been effectively eliminated without the use of any anticancer drugs or contrast agents. Therefore, this type of core-shell hybrid particles represents a new composite particle design for effective and safe tumor theranostics.

Biomimetic mineralization of carboxymethyl chitosan nanofibers with improved osteogenic activity in vitro and in vivo.

Inspired by the natural extracellular matrix, the organic-inorganic composite nanofibers are promising scaffolds for bone tissue engineering. Chitosan-based nanofibers are widely used as bone tissue engineering scaffolds with good biocompatibility but pungent solvents are frequently used for its processing. Carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS), a water-soluble derivative of chitosan, has better biodegradability and bioactivity which allows CMCS to chelate Ca2+ and induce the deposition of apatite. Moreover, with water as solvent, CMCS nanofibers avoid the acidic salt removal comparing to electrospun-chitosan. In this study, we successfully prepared uniform CMCS nanofibers with the aid of polyethylene oxide (PEO) and obtained the optimized conditions with a voltage of 25 kV and PEO of molecular weight 1000 kDa. We further prepared hydroxyapatite (HA) coated electrospun CMCS nanofibers by biomimetic mineralization using 5 times simulated body fluid. The promotion of osteogenic differentiation of mouse bone marrow stromal cells (mBMSCs) in vitro was evaluated on the nanofibers scaffolds. Cell experiments revealed that CMCS-HA composite nanofibers increased the ALP activity. The gene expression level of Runx2 and ALP were about 1.6 and 4.3 folds at the 7 days, and 5.1 and 10 folds at the 14 days on CMCS-HA nanofibrous membranes than that on CMCS alone samples. The level of OCN increased by 24 and 1.5 times on the CMCS-HA scaffolds than CMCS scaffolds at the 14 and 21 days. In vivo new bone formation by nanofiber scaffolds was investigated in a critical-size rat calvarial bone defect model. Micro-CT results showed that the whole defect was covered by new bone after CMCS-HA filling the defect for 12 weeks. The results of H&E staining and Masson's trichrome staining on histological sections further confirmed that composite nanofibers promoted new bone formation and maturation.