The effect of single nucleotide polymorphisms on depression in combination with coronary diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Depression and coronary heart disease (CHD) have common risk mechanisms. Common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) may be associated with the risk of depression combined with coronary heart disease. Methods: This study was designed according to the PRISMA-P guidelines. We will include case-control studies and cohort studies investigating the relationship between gene SNPs and depression and coronary heart disease comorbidities. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) will be used to assess the risk of bias. When measuring dichotomous outcomes, we will use the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95%CIs) in a case-control study. Five genetic models (allele model, homozygous model, co-dominant model, dominant model, and recessive model) will be evaluated for each included study. Subgroup analysis by ethnicity will be performed. If necessary, post hoc analysis will be made according to different types. Results: A total of 13 studies were included in this study, and the types of genes included are FKBP5 and SGK1 genes that act on glucocorticoid; miR-146a, IL-4-589, IL-6-174, TNF-α-308, CRP-717 genes that act on inflammatory mechanisms; eNOS genes from endothelial cells; HSP70 genes that act on the autoimmune response; ACE2 and MAS1 genes that act to mediate Ang(1-7) in the RAS system; 5-HTTLPR gene responsible for the transport of serotonin 5-HT and neurotrophic factor BDNF gene. There were three studies on 5-HTTLPR and BDNF genes, respectively, while there was only one study targeting FKBP5, SGK1, miR-146a, IL-4-589, IL-6-174, TNF-alpha-308, CRP-717, eNOS, HSP70, ACE2, and MAS1 genes. We did not perform a meta-analysis for genes reported in a single study, and meta-analysis was performed separately for studies exploring the 5-HTTLPR and BDNF genes. The results showed that for the 5-HTTLPR gene, there was a statistically significant association between 5-HTTLPR gene polymorphisms and depression in combination with coronary diseases (CHD-D) under the co-dominant model (LS vs LL: OR 1.76, 95%CI 1.20-2.59; SS vs LL: OR 2.80, 95%CI 1.45 to 5.41), the dominant model (LS+SS vs LL: OR 2.06, 95%CI 1.44 to 2.96), and the homozygous model (SS vs LL: OR 2.80 95%CI 1.45 to 5.5.41) were statistically significant for CHD-D, demonstrating that polymorphisms in the 5-HTTLPR gene are associated with the development of CHD-D and that the S allele in the 5-HTTLPR gene is likely to be a risk factor for CHD-D. For the BDNF gene, there were no significant differences between one of the co-dominant gene models (AA vs GG: OR 6.63, 95%CI 1.44 to 30.64), the homozygous gene model (AA vs GG: OR 6.63,95% CI 1.44 to 30.64), the dominant gene model (GA+AA vs GG: OR4.29, 95%CI 1.05 to 17.45), recessive gene model (AA vs GG+GA: OR 2.71, 95%CI 1.16 to 6.31), and allele model (A vs G: OR 2.59, 95%CI 1.18 to 5.67) were statistically significant for CHD-D, demonstrating that BDNFrs6265 gene polymorphisms are associated with the CHD-D development and that the A allele in the BDNFrs6265 gene is likely to be a risk factor for CHD-D. We analyzed the allele frequencies of SNPs reported in a single study and found that the SNPs in the microRNA146a gene rs2910164, the SNPs in the ACE2 gene rs2285666 and the SNPs in the SGK1 gene rs1743963 and rs1763509 were risk factors for the development of CHD-D. We performed a subgroup analysis of three studies involving the BDNFrs6265 gene. The results showed that European populations were more at risk of developing CHD-D than Asian populations in both dominant model (GA+AA vs GG: OR 10.47, 95%CI 3.53 to 31.08) and co-dominant model (GA vs GG: OR 6.40, 95%CI 1.98 to 20.73), with statistically significant differences. In contrast, the studies involving the 5-HTTLPR gene were all Asian populations, so subgroup analyses were not performed. We performed sensitivity analyses of studies exploring the 5-HTTLPR and BDNF rs6265 genes. The results showed that the results of the allele model, the dominant model, the recessive model, the homozygous model and the co-dominant model for both 5-HTTLPR and BDNF rs6265 genes were stable. Due to the limited number of studies of the 5-HTTLPR and BDNF genes, it was not possible to determine the symmetry of the funnel plot using Begg's funnel plot and Egger's test. Therefore, we did not assess publication bias. Discussion: SNPs of the microRNA146a gene at rs2910164, the ACE2 gene at the rs2285666 and the SGK1 gene at rs1743963 and rs1763509, and the SNPs at the 5-HTTLPR and BDNF gene loci are associated with the onset of comorbid depression in coronary heart disease. We recommend that future research focus on studying SNPs' impact on comorbid depression in coronary heart disease, specifically targeting the 5-HTTLPR and BDNF gene at rs6265. Systematic review registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42021229371.

Advancing Spinal Cord Injury Bioimaging and Repair with Multifunctional Gold Nanodots Tracking.

High levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) are known to play a critical role in the secondary cascade of spinal cord injury (SCI). The scavenging of ROS has emerged as a promising approach for alleviating acute SCI. Moreover, identifying the precise location of the SCI site remains challenging. Enhancing the visualization of the spinal cord and improving the ability to distinguish the lesion site are crucial for accurate and safe treatment. Therefore, there is an urgent clinical need to develop a biomaterial that integrates diagnosis and treatment for SCI. Herein, ultra-small-sized gold nanodots (AuNDs) were designed for dual-mode imaging-guided precision treatment of SCI. The designed AuNDs demonstrate two important functions. First, they effectively scavenge ROS, inhibit oxidative stress, reduce the infiltration of inflammatory cells, and prevent apoptosis. This leads to a significant improvement in SCI repair and promotes a functional recovery after injury. Second, leveraging their excellent dual-mode imaging capabilities, the AuNDs enable rapid and accurate identification of SCI sites. The high contrast observed between the injured and adjacent uninjured areas highlights the tremendous potential of AuNDs for SCI detection. Overall, by integrating ROS scavenging and dual-mode imaging in a single biomaterial, our work on functionalized AuNDs provides a promising strategy for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of SCI.

Fixation technique of biodegradable magnesium alloy suture anchor in the rotator cuff repair of the shoulder in a goat model: a technical note.

BACKGROUND: Shoulder disorders, particularly rotator cuff tears, are prevalent musculoskeletal conditions related to aging. Although the widely used suture anchor technique provides strong mechanical support to the tendon, it is associated with a risk of postoperative tendon retearing. The conventionally used titanium alloys can affect the interpretation of magnetic resonance imaging. Degradable magnesium alloys possess excellent biocompatibility, similar mechanical property to the bone, and stimulating bone formation ability from Mg2+. The purpose of this experiment was to develop innovative magnesium-based suture anchors to enhance rotator cuff repair by improving fixation materials, and to evaluate their feasibility in a goat model. METHODS: We developed fluoridized ZK60 suture anchors as the implantation material for two goats, who underwent rotator cuff repair surgery on both shoulders. Computed tomography (CT) and histological analysis were performed at 12 weeks postoperatively, and the results were compared between the magnesium and titanium alloy groups. Additionally, a hematological examination was conducted, which included assessments of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, coagulation function, liver function, kidney function, and magnesium ion concentration. RESULTS: The 12-week postoperative CT images showed intact MgF2 ZK60 suture anchors, effectively reconnecting the infraspinatus tendon to the humeral head. The anchors became less visible on CT scans, indicating absorption by surrounding tissues. New bone formation in the MgF2 group surpassed that in the Ti group, demonstrating superior osseointegration. The similarity between cortical bone and magnesium reduced stress-shielding and promoted bone regeneration. Histological analysis revealed successful tendon healing with MgF2 anchors, while the Ti group showed discontinuous interfaces and reduced collagen secretion. Hematological examination showed stable liver, renal function, and magnesium ion levels. CONCLUSIONS: The findings indicate that MgF2-coated suture anchors are feasible for rotator cuff repair and potentially other orthopedic applications. We hope that magnesium alloy anchors can become the solution for rotator cuff tendon repair surgery.

Postpartum choriocarcinoma - a rare cause of delayed postpartum hemorrhage: Four case reports and literature review.

BACKGROUND: Delayed postpartum hemorrhage is rare, with an incidence of 0.5% to 2.0% in all pregnancies. The most important causes are placental remnants, infections, and placental bed subinvolution. Postpartum choriocarcinoma, a highly malignant complication of pregnancy, is a rare condition that can be easily misdiagnosed as other common causes, such as gestational remnants, and delays the diagnosis. METHODS: Four patients visited our clinic complaining of delayed postpartum hemorrhage, combined with respiratory and neurological symptoms in 2 cases. Two cases were confirmed by histopathological examination and in addition, medical history, elevated human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) level, and imaging findings help confirm the diagnosis of delayed postpartum hemorrhage caused by postpartum choriocarcinoma in other cases. Individualized combination chemotherapies were prescribed. In the light of massive cerebral metastasis in case 2, intrathecal methotrexate injection combined with whole-brain radiotherapy was prescribed. RESULTS: Due to the absence of routine monitoring of ß-hCG following full-term delivery, there was widespread metastasis at the time of diagnosis. Three patients got complete remission and there is no sign of recurrence. One patient had relapse and widespread metastasis and died at home 6 months after the last chemotherapy. CONCLUSION: It is important to be aware of the possibility of choriocarcinoma in patients with delayed postpartum hemorrhage. Clinicians should improve the recognition of choriocarcinoma following full-term delivery, emphasize the monitoring of ß-hCG, comprehensively analyze the general condition of patients, and conduct standardized and individualized chemotherapy protocols.

Analysis and validation of hub genes in neutrophil extracellular traps for the long-term prognosis of myocardial infarction.

INTRODUCTION: The study focuses on the long-term prognosis of myocardial infarction (MI) influenced by neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). It also aims to analyze and validate relative hub genes in this process, in order to further explore new therapeutic targets that can improve the prognosis of MI. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We established a MI model in mice by ligating the left anterior descending branch (LAD) and conducted an 8-week continuous observation to study the dynamic changes in the structure and function of the heart in these mice. Meanwhile, we administered Apocynin, an inhibitor of NADPH Oxidase, which has also been shown to inhibit the formation of NETs, to mice undergoing MI surgery in order to compare. This study employed hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, echocardiography, immunofluorescence, and real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) to examine the impact of NETs on the long-term prognosis of MI. Next, datasets related to MI and NETs were downloaded from the GEO database, respectively. The Limma package of R software was used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). After analyzing the "Robust Rank Aggregation (RRA)" package, we conducted a screening for robust differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and performed pathway enrichment analysis using Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) to determine the functional roles of these robust DEGs. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was visualized and hub genes were filtered using Cytoscape. RESULTS: Immunofluorescence and qPCR results showed an increase in the expression of Myeloperoxidase (MPO) at week 1 and week 8 in the hearts of mice after MI. HE staining reveals a series of pathological manifestations in the heart of the MI group during 8 weeks, including enlarged size, disordered arrangement of cardiomyocytes, infiltration of inflammatory cells, and excessive deposition of collagen fibers, among others. The utilization of Apocynin could significantly improve these poor performances. The echocardiography displayed the cardiac function of the heart in mice. The MI group has a reduced range of heart movement and decreased ejection ability. Moreover, the ventricular systolic movement was found to be abnormal, and its wall thickening rate decreased over time, indicating a progressive worsening of myocardial ischemia. The Apocynin group, on the contrary, showed fewer abnormal changes in the aforementioned aspects. A total of 81 DEGs and 4 hub genes (FOS, EGR1, PTGS2, and HIST1H4H) were obtained. The results of RT-qPCR demonstrated abnormal expression of these four genes in the MI group, which could be reversed by treatment of Apocynin. CONCLUSION: The NETs formation could be highly related to MI and the long-term prognosis of MI can be significantly influenced by the NETs formation. Four hub genes, namely FOS, EGR1, PTGS2, and HIST1H4H, have the potential to be key genes related to this process. They could also serve as biomarkers for predicting MI prognosis and as targets for gene therapy.

Tetracosanuclear nickel complexes as effective catalysts for cycloaddition of carbon dioxide with epoxides.

A series of well-defined tetracosanuclear nickel complexes 3-7 facilely produced by one-pot synthesis were active catalysts for cycloaddition of CO2 and cyclohexene oxide (CHO). These nickel complexes were doughnut-like supramolecular coordination complexes involving eight repeating units, and each of them contains one Schiff base ligand and three nickel(II) ions. Notably, the 24-nuclear nickel cluster complex 3 in combination with nucleophilic additives was the most efficient catalyst to mediate CO2 coupling with CHO to generate CO2-based cis-cyclohexene carbonates. In addition to CO2/CHO cycloaddition, complex 3 was also found to effectively couple CO2 with other alicyclic epoxides, generating the corresponding cyclic carbonates. Additionally, kinetic investigations for CO2 cycloaddition of CHO using 3 were reported.

Inhibition of Autophagy Aggravates Arachis hypogaea L. Skin Extracts-Induced Apoptosis in Cancer Cells.

The skin of Arachis hypogaea L. (peanut or groundnut) is a rich source of polyphenols, which have been shown to exhibit a wider spectrum of noteworthy biological activities, including anticancer effects. However, the anticancer activity of peanut skin extracts against melanoma and colorectal cancer (CRC) cells remains elusive. In this study, we systematically investigated the cytotoxic, antiproliferative, pro-apoptotic, and anti-migration effects of peanut skin ethanolic extract and its fractions on melanoma and CRC cells. Cell viability results showed that the ethyl acetate fraction (AHE) of peanut skin ethanolic crude extract and one of the methanolic fractions (AHE-2) from ethyl acetate extraction exhibited the highest cytotoxicity against melanoma and CRC cells but not in nonmalignant human skin fibroblasts. AHE and AHE-2 effectively modulated the cell cycle-related proteins, including the suppression of cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4), cyclin-dependent kinase 6 (CDK6), phosphorylation of Retinoblastoma (p-Rb), E2F1, Cyclin A, and activation of tumor suppressor p53, which was associated with cell cycle arrest and paralleled their antiproliferative efficacies. AHE and AHE-2 could also induce caspase-dependent apoptosis and inhibit migration activities in melanoma and CRC cells. Moreover, it is noteworthy that autophagy, manifested by microtubule-associated protein light chain 3B (LC3B) conversion and the aggregation of GFP-LC3, was detected after AHE and AHE-2 treatment and provided protective responses in cancer cells. Significantly, inhibition of autophagy enhanced AHE- and AHE-2-induced cytotoxicity and apoptosis. Together, these findings not only elucidate the anticancer potential of peanut skin extracts against melanoma and CRC cells but also provide a new insight into autophagy implicated in peanut skin extracts-induced cancer cell death.

Bimetallic nickel complexes containing imidazole-based phenolate ligands as efficient catalysts for the copolymerization of carbon dioxide with epoxides.

The utilization of hexadentate imidazole-derived diamine-bisphenolate ligands to construct structurally well-defined bimetallic nickel catalysts that enable the mediation of the copolymerization of carbon dioxide with alicyclic epoxides was reported for the first time. A series of dinickel carboxylate/nitrophenolate complexes were facilely prepared through a one-pot procedure and their structures were fully determined by single crystal X-ray structural analysis. Dinickel complexes 1-10 were used as single-component catalysts, and were evaluated for the copolymerization of CO2 and cyclohexene oxide (CHO), for which acetato-incorporated complex 1 was proved to exhibit the best activity. Not only has the controllability of binickel catalyst 1 for CO2/CHO copolymerization been demonstrated, but also an "immortal" character for the same polymerization has been realized. Furthermore, detailed kinetic studies of polymerization catalysis of this type were undertaken, and the kinetics results revealed a first-order dependence on both Ni complex 1 and CHO concentrations. This is a successful example of the introduction of the easily accessible nitrogen-heterocycle group, the imidazole moiety, into phenolate ligands for the development of high-performance homogeneous catalysts towards the bimetallic complex-catalyzed copolymerization of CO2 and epoxides.

Global, regional, and national burden of gallbladder and biliary diseases from 1990 to 2019.

BACKGROUND: Gallbladder and biliary diseases (GABDs) are a major public health issue. AIM: To analysis the cause-specific incidence, prevalence, and years lived with disability (YLDs) and its temporal trends of GABDs at the global, regional, and national level. Data on GABD were available from the Global Burden of Disease study 2019. METHODS: The estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) was used to quantify temporal trend in GABD age-standardized incidence rates (ASIRs), age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR), and age-standardized YLD rate (ASYR) by region, sex. We analyzed the relationship between the GABD burden and country development level using the human development index (HDI). RESULTS: In 2019, the incident cases of GABD were 52003772, with an ASIR of 63432/100000 population. Globally, the number of incident cases and ASIR of GABD increased 97% and 58.9% between 1990 and 2019. Although, the ASPR and ASYR decreased from 1990 to 2019, the number of prevalent and YLDs cases increased. The highest ASIR was observed in Italy, and the highest ASPR and ASYR was observed in United Kingdom. The highest burden of GABD was found in low-SDI region, and the burden in female was significantly higher than males. A generally negative correlation (ρ = -0.24, P < 0.05) of GABD with the EAPC and human development index (HDI) (in 2021) were observed for ASIR. What's more, no correlation in ASPR (ρ = -0.06, P = 0.39) and ASYR (ρ = -0.07, P = 0.36) of GABD with the EAPC and HDI (in 2021) were observed, respectively. CONCLUSION: GABD remain a major global public health challenge; however, the burden of GABD varies geographically. Globally, the number of incident cases and ASIR of GABD increased between 1990 and 2019. The results of our study provide insight into the global disease burden of GABD and may assist policymakers in formulating effective policies to mitigate modifiable risk factors.

An integrated mycotoxin-mitigating agent can effectively mitigate the combined toxicity of AFB1, DON and OTA on the production performance, liver and oviduct health in broiler breeder hens.

This study was to evaluate the efficacy of an integrated mycotoxin-mitigating agent in reducing the adverse effects of co-occurring dietary aflatoxin B1 deoxynivalenol and ochratoxin A on broiler breeder hens. 360 30-week-old Hubbard Efficiency Plus broiler breeder hens were allocated into four groups and received a basal diet (BD; Control), BD added 0.15 mg/kg aflatoxin B1+1.5 mg/kg deoxynivalenol+0.12 mg/kg ochratoxin A (Toxins), BD plus Toxins with 0.1% TOXO-XL (Toxins + XL1), and BD plus Toxins with 0.2% TOXO-XL (Toxins + XL2), respectively, for 8 weeks, and then received the same BD for another 4 weeks. Compared with control, mycotoxins decreased total egg weigh, egg laying rate, settable eggs rate, hatch of total eggs rate, egg quality, but increased feed/egg ratio and mortality rate, and impaired the liver and oviduct health during weeks 1-8 and(or) 9-12. It also increased PC and MDA concentrations, TUNEL-positive cells and IL-1ß and IL-6 expression, and decreased T-AOC, GPX and CAT activities in liver and/or oviduct. Notably, most of these negative changes were mitigated by both dosages of TOXO-XL. Generally, 0.2% TOXO-XL displayed better mitigation effects than 0.1% TOXO-XL. Conclusively, these findings revealed that TOXO-XL could mitigate the combined mycotoxins-induced toxicity on the performance, liver and oviduct health, through the regulation of redox, immunity, and apoptosis in broiler breeder hens.

Finite Element Analysis Model for Assessing Expansion Patterns from Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion.

Surgically assisted rapid palatal expansion (SARPE) was introduced to release bony resistance to facilitate skeletal expansion in skeletally mature patients. However, asymmetric expansion between the left and right sides has been reported in 7.52% of all SARPE patients, of which 12.90% had to undergo a second surgery for correction. The etiologies leading to asymmetric expansion remain unclear. Finite element analysis has been used to evaluate the stress associated with SARPE in the maxillofacial structures. However, as a collision of the bone at the LeFort I osteotomy sites occurs only after a certain amount of expansion, most of the existing models do not truly represent the force distribution, given that the expansion amount of these existing models rarely exceeds 1 mm. Therefore, there is a need to create a novel finite element model of SARPE that could perform a clinically required amount of expander activation for further analysis of the expansion patterns of the hemimaxillae in all three dimensions. A three-dimensional (3D) skull model from cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) was imported into Mimics and converted into mathematical entities to segment the maxillary complex, maxillary first premolars, and maxillary first molars. These structures were transferred into Geomagic for surface smoothing and cancellous bone and periodontal ligament creation. The right half of the maxillary complex was then retained and mirrored to create a perfectly symmetrical model in SolidWorks. A Haas expander was constructed and banded to the maxillary first premolars and first molars. Finite element analysis of various combinations of buccal osteotomies at different angles with 1 mm clearance was performed in Ansys. A convergence test was conducted until the desired amount of expansion on both sides (at least 6 mm in total) was achieved. This study lays the foundation for evaluating how buccal osteotomy angulation influences the expansion patterns of SARPE.

Unraveling heterogeneity of dissolved organic matter in highly connected natural water bodies at molecular level.

The exploring of molecular-level heterogeneity of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in highly connected water bodies is of great importance for pollution tracing and lake management, and provides new perspectives on the transformations and fate of DOM in aquatic systems. However, the inherent homogeneity of DOM in connected water bodies poses challenges for its heterogeneity analysis. In this work, an innovative method combining fluorescence spectroscopy, high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), and cluster analysis was developed to reveal the heterogeneity of DOM in highly connected water bodies at the molecular level. We detected 4538 molecules across 36 sampling sites in Chaohu Lake using HRMS. Cluster analysis based on excitation-emission matrix (EEM) data effectively divided the sampling sites into four clusters, representing the water bodies from West Chaohu Lake, East Chaohu Lake, agricultural land, and urban areas. Analysis of DOM in the western and eastern parts of the lake revealed that aerobic degradation led to a decrease in CHOS and aliphatic compounds, alongside an increase in CHO and highly unsaturated and phenolic compounds. Furthermore, we unveiled the characteristics and sources of heterogeneity in DOM from agricultural land and urban areas. Our method accurately captured the heterogeneous distribution of DOM in the lake and revealed the heterogeneous composition of DOM at molecular level. This work underscores the importance of integrating complementary spectroscopic analyses with HRMS in DOM research with similar compositions.

[Prediction and analysis of Q-markers of Elephantopus scaber based on its UPLC fingerprint, content determination of components, and in vitro a nti-tumor activity].

This study aimed to provide scientific evidence for predicting quality markers(Q-markers) of Elephantopus scaber by establishing UPLC fingerprint of E. scaber from different geographical origins and determining the content of 13 major components, as well as conducting in vitro anti-cancer activity investigation of the main components. The chromatographic column used was Waters CORTECS UPLC C_(18)(2.1 mm×150 mm, 1.6 µm), and the mobile phase consisted of acetonitrile and 0.1% formic acid solution(gradient elution). The column temperature was set at 30 ℃, and the flow rate was 0.2 mL·min~(-1). The injection volume was 1 µL, and the detection wavelength was 240 nm. The UPLC fingerprint of E. scaber was fitted using the Similarity Evaluation System for Chromatographic Fingerprint of Traditional Chinese Medicine(2012 edition) to determine common peaks, evaluate similarity, identify and determine the content of major components. The CCK-8 assay was used to explore the inhibitory effect of the main components on the proliferation of lung cancer cells. The results showed that in the established UPLC fingerprint of E. scaber, 35 common peaks were identified. Thirteen major components, including neochlorogenic acid(peak 1), chlorogenic acid(peak 2), cryptochlorogenic acid(peak 3), caffeic acid(peak 4), schaftoside(peak 6), galuteolin(peak 9), isochlorogenic acid B(peak 10), isochlorogenic acid A(peak 12), isochlorogenic acid C(peak 18), deoxyelephantopin(peak 28), isodeoxyelephantopin(peak 29), isoscabertopin(peak 31), and scabertopin(peak 32) were identified and quantified, and a quantitative analysis method was established. The results of the in vitro anti-cancer activity study showed that deoxyelephantopin, isodeoxyelephantopin, isoscabertopin, and scabertopin in E. scaber exhibited inhibition rates of lung cancer cell proliferation exceeding 80% at a concentration of 10 µmol·L~(-1), higher than the positive drug paclitaxel. These results indicate that the fingerprint of E. scaber is highly characteristic, and the quantitative analysis method is accurate and stable, providing references for the research on quality standards of E. scaber. Four sesquiterpene lactones in E. scaber show significant anti-cancer activity and can serve as Q-markers for E. scaber.

One Stone, Three Birds: Multifunctional Nanodots as "Pilot Light" for Guiding Surgery, Enhanced Radiotherapy, and Brachytherapy of Tumors.

Surgery, radiotherapy (RT), and brachytherapy are crucial treatments for localized deep tumors. However, imprecise tumor location often leads to issues such as positive surgical margins, extended radiotherapy target volumes, and radiation damage to healthy tissues. Reducing side effects in healthy tissue and enhancing RT efficacy are critical challenges. To address these issues, we developed a multifunctional theranostic platform using Au/Ag nanodots (Au/AgNDs) that act as a "pilot light" for real-time guided surgery, high-efficiency RT, and brachytherapy, achieving a strategy of killing three birds with one stone. First, dual-mode imaging of Au/AgNDs enabled precision RT, minimizing damage to adjacent normal tissue during X-ray irradiation. Au/AgNDs enhanced ionizing radiation energy deposition, increased intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, regulated the cell cycle, promoted DNA damage formation, and inhibited DNA repair in tumor cells, significantly improving RT efficacy. Second, in brachytherapy, precise guidance provided by dual-mode imaging addressed challenges related to non-visualization of existing interstitial brachytherapy and multiple adjustments of insertion needle positions. Meanwhile, the effect of brachytherapy was improved. Third, the excellent fluorescence imaging of Au/AgNDs accurately distinguished tumors from normal tissue, facilitating their use as a powerful tool for assisting surgeons during tumor resection. Taken together, our multifunctional theranostic platform offers real-time guidance for surgery and high-efficiency RT, and improves brachytherapy precision, providing a novel strategy and vision for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

Long period changes of hippocampal diffusion kurtosis imaging and its correlation with cognitive dysfunction after incomplete cerebral ischemia-reperfusion in rats.

This study aims to summarize the changes of functional diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) parameters in the bilateral hippocampal CA1 region of the hemorrhagic shock reperfusion (HSR) model of rats and their correlation with cognitive dysfunction. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats (9-10 weeks of age, weighing 350-400 g) were randomized into the HSR group (n = 30) and the sham-operated group (Sham) (n = 30). Rats in the HSR group and the Sham group were subdivided into five time points (1, 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks) for examination. Diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) was performed. Cognitive dysfunction was analyzed by the Morris Water Maze. The correlation between the DKI parameters and cognitive dysfunction was analyzed by the Spearman correlation. In the HSR group, the values of axial kurtosis (Ka), radial kurtosis (Kr), and mean kurtosis (MK) in the bilateral hippocampal CA1 of rats at 1, 2, 4, 8 and 12 weeks after the surgery were significantly higher. The rats in the HSR group had significantly longer escape latency than in the Sham group. The rats in the HSR group had significantly shorter time and shorter distance in target quadrant than those in the Sham group. The escape latency had positive correlation with MK, Ka, and Kr. The distance and the time in target quadrant had negative correlation with MK, Ka, and Kr. The parameters get from the DKI could accurately evaluate the abnormal blood perfusion and microstructure changes in hippocampal CA1 area of the incomplete cerebral ischemia reperfusion rats induced by HSR. MK, Ka, and Kr values could reflect the decreased learning and memory ability in HSR rat model.

Evaluation of the Neonatal Sequential Organ Failure Assessment and Mortality Risk in Neonates with Early-Onset Infection.

BACKGROUND: The discriminative utility of the neonatal sequential organ failure assessment (nSOFA) for early-onset sepsis (EOS) mortality in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is unknown. OBJECTIVES: The objective of the study was to determine the utility of nSOFA for EOS mortality. METHODS: Multicenter, retrospective cohort study of NICU patients with EOS between 2012 and 2023. nSOFA scores of survivors and non-survivors were compared, and area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUROC) for mortality was calculated. RESULTS: 104 subjects were identified (88 lived, 16 died). AUROC at blood culture collection (T0), 6 h after collection (T6), and the maximum nSOFA at T0 or T6 (T0-6max) were 0.76 (95% CI: 0.62, 0.91), 0.89 (0.80, 0.99), and 0.87 (0.77, 0.97), respectively. Analyses restricted to birthweight (<1.5, <1 kg) or gestational age (<32, <29 week) cutoffs revealed AUROC ranges of 0.86-0.92 for T6 and 0.82-0.84 for T0-6max. CONCLUSIONS: The nSOFA showed good-to-excellent discrimination of mortality among infants with EOS in the NICU.

Safety and efficacy of His-Purkinje system pacing in the treatment of patients with atrial fibrillation and heart failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Aim: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the His-Purkinje system pacing (HPCSP) in the treatment of individuals with atrial fibrillation (AF) complicated by heart failure (HF). Methods: The PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Embase databases were searched through September 1, 2022. The literature was initially screened based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The baseline characteristics of the subjects, implantation success rate, New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDd), QRS duration, pacing threshold, and impedance were extracted and summarized; statistical analysis was performed using RevMan 5.3 software. Results: In all, 22 articles were included, involving 1,445 patients. Compared to biventricular pacing (BiVP), HPCSP resulted in improved cardiac function, including increased ejection fraction (MD = 5.69, 95% CI: 0.78-10.60, P = 0.02) and decreased LVEDd (MD = -3.50, 95% CI: -7.05-0.05, P = 0.05). It was also correlated with shorter QRS duration (MD = -38.30, 95% CI: -60.71--15.88, P < 0.01) and reduced all-cause mortality and rehospitalization events (RR = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.57-0.91, P < 0.01) in patients. Left bundle branch pacing (LBBP) lowered the pacing threshold (MD = 0.47; 95% CI: 0.25-0.69; P < 0.01), and there was no statistical difference in the rate of endpoint events when comparing these two physiologic pacing modalities (RR = 1.56, 95% CI: 0.87-2.80, P = 0.14). Conclusion: The safety and efficacy of HPCSP in patients with AF and HF were verified in this meta-analysis. HPCSP can reverse cardiac remodeling and has great clinical application value. Relatively speaking, His-bundle pacing (HBP) can maintain better ventricular electro-mechanical synchronization, and the pacing parameters of LBBP are more stable. Systematic Review Registration: PROSPERO (CRD42022336109).

Cancer cell membrane biomimetic nanosystem for homologous targeted dual-mode imaging and combined therapy.

HYPOTHESIS: The use of tumor cell membrane-camouflaged nanoparticles, specifically the multifunctional biomimetic core-shell nanosystem MPCONPs, can enhance the targeting ability and immune escape functionality of traditional chemotherapy, leading to more precise drug delivery and improved treatment outcomes. EXPERIMENTS: Preparation of MPCONPs: Autologous tumor cell membrane (CM) fragments are collected and used to create a shell for the nanoparticles. A trypsin-sensitive cationic polylysine framework is synthesized and embedded with oxaliplatin (l-OHP) and Ce6-AuNDs (a singlet oxygen generator). The MPCONPs are formed by assembling these components. FINDINGS: MPCONPs, as nanoparticles camouflaged with tumor CM, have enhanced cellular uptake in cancer cells and improved the efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT) and chemotherapy (CT). This offers great potential for their use as individualized therapeutic agents for clinical oncology treatment.

Using Rayleigh Scattering to Correct the Inner Filter Effect of the Fluorescence Excitation-Emission Matrix.

Excitation-emission matrix (EEM) spectroscopy has been proven to be an effective tool for offline fluorescence analysis. However, the pretreatment of EEM data requires an additional ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) absorption spectrum for inner filter effect (IFE) correction. This complicates the instrument structure and increases the test flow, thus hindering the practical application of EEM in environmental online monitoring. In this work, Rayleigh scattering in EEM, which is often masked, is leveraged to address this challenge as Rayleigh scattering light itself passes through the sample and experiences absorption. We establish a translation-corrected estimation by the Rayleigh scattering (TCERS) method to estimate absorbance, not only enabling the IFE self-correction of EEM but also providing orthogonal spectroscopy information. TCERS is hierarchically tested in real solutions, simulated turbid liquids, and various natural water samples. Results indicate that the predicted UV-vis absorption spectra have a cosine similarity of over 0.95 with the actual spectra. When using the predicted spectra to correct the IFE of EEM, only about 0.005/1.440 bits of information entropy are lost and the absolute errors in EEM are negligible. The proposed method has the potential to streamline the design of fluorescence spectrometers, making it possible to miniaturize, optimize, and popularize these instruments for various practical applications such as environmental monitoring.