Portable smartphone platform utilizing AIE-featured carbon dots for multivariate visual detection for Cu2+, Hg2+ and BSA in real samples

Heavy metals cause serious toxic threats to both environment and human health. The multivariate, instrument-free, portable, and rapid detection strategy is crucial for determination of heavy metals. Herein, aggregation-induced emission (AIE) featured carbon dots (SN-CDs) were fabricated hydrothermally by optimizing co-doping precursors. With bright yellow emission at 560 nm, the SN-CDs were utilized for multivariate sensing Cu2+, Hg2+ and bovine serum albumin (BSA) based on AIE behavior and static quenching effect, with detection limits of 0.46 μmol·L-1, 25.8 nmol·L-1 and 1.52 μmol·L-1. A portable smartphone platform was constructed to enable portable, prompt, and sensitive analysis for Cu2+, Hg2+, and BSA via different strategies in real water and food samples with satisfied recovery. Moreover, a logic gate circuit was designed to provide the possibilities for utilization of intelligent facility. The proposed AIE SN-CDs possessing great contribution in preferable sensing performance, present promising prospects in real-time monitoring of environment and food safety.

Dual-mode fluorimetric and colorimetric sensors based on iron and nitrogen co-doped carbon dots for the detection of dopamine

Determination of dopamine (DA) is crucial for its intimate relationship with clinical trials and biological environment. Herein, Fe, N co-doped carbon dots (AFC-CDs) were fabricated by optimizing precursors and reaction conditions for fluorimetric/colorimetric dual-mode sensing of DA. With synergistic influence of Förster resonance energy transfer and static quenching effect, DA significantly quenched the blue luminescence of AFC-CDs at 442 nm, the production of recognizable tan-brown complex caused evident colorimetric response, achieved the dual-mode fluorimetric/colorimetric sensing for DA. The excellent selectivity and satisfied sensitivity can be confirmed with the limit of detection at 0.29 μM and 2.31 μM via fluorimetric/colorimetric mode respectively. The reliability and practicability were proved by recovery of 94.81-101.61% in real samples. Notably, the proposed electron transfer way between AFC-CDs and DA was hypothesized logically, indicated dual-mode probe provided a promising platform for the sensing of trace DA, and could be expanded in environment and food safety.

An integrated network pharmacology, molecular docking and experiment validation study to investigate the potential mechanism of Isobavachalcone in the treatment of osteoarthritis

BACKGROUND

In many different plants, including Dorstenia and Psoralea corylifolia L., Isobavachalcone (IBC) is a naturally occurring flavonoid chemical having a range of biological actions, including anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and anti-bacterial. The "Theory of Medicinal Properties" of the Tang Dynasty states that Psoralea corylifolia L. has the ability to alleviate discomfort in the knees and waist. One of the most widespread chronic illnesses, osteoarthritis (OA), is characterized by stiffness and discomfort in the joints. However, there hasn't been much research done on the effectiveness and underlying processes of IBC in the treatment of osteoarthritis.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the potential efficacy and mechanism of IBC in treating osteoarthritis, we adopted an integrated strategy of network pharmacology, molecular docking and experiment assessment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The purpose of this research was to determine the impact of IBC on OA and the underlying mechanisms. IBC and OA possible targets and processes were predicted using network pharmacology, including the relationship between IBC and OA intersection targets, Cytoscape protein-protein interaction (PPI) to obtain key potential targets, and GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis to reveal the probable mechanism of IBC on OA. Following that, in vitro tests were carried out to confirm the expected underlying processes. Finally, in vivo tests clarified IBC's therapeutic efficacy on OA.

RESULTS

We anticipated and validated that the impact of IBC on osteoarthritis is mostly controlled by the PI3K-AKT-NF-κB signaling pathway by combining the findings of network pharmacology analysis, molecular docking and Experiment Validation.

CONCLUSIONS

This study reveals the IBC has potential to delay OA development.

Paeoniflorin promotes PPARγ expression to suppress HSCs activation by inhibiting EZH2-mediated histone H3K27 trimethylation

BACKGROUND

The alleviating effect of paeoniflorin (Pae) on liver fibrosis has been established; however, the molecular mechanism and specific target(s) underlying this effect remain elusive.

PURPOSE

This study was to investigate the molecular mechanism underlying the regulatory effect of Pae on hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation in liver fibrosis, with a specific focus on the role of Pae in modulating histone methylation modifications.

METHODS

The therapeutic effect of Pae was evaluated by establishing in vivo and in vitro models of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced mice and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1)-induced LX-2 cells, respectively. Molecular docking, surface plasmon resonance (SPR), chromatin immunoprecipitation-quantitative real time PCR (ChIP-qPCR) and other molecular biological methods were used to clarify the molecular mechanism of Pae regulating HSCs activation.

RESULTS

Our study found that Pae inhibited HSCs activation and histone trimethylation modification in liver of CCl4-induced mice and LX-2 cells. We demonstrated that the inhibitory effect of Pae on the activation of HSCs was dependent on peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) expression and enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2). Mechanistically, Pae directly binded to EZH2 to effectively suppress its enzymatic activity. This attenuation leaded to the suppression of histone H3K27 trimethylation in the PPARγ promoter region, which induced upregulation of PPARγ expression.

CONCLUSION

This investigative not only sheds new light on the precise targets that underlie the remission of hepatic fibrogenesis induced by Pae but also emphasizes the critical significance of EZH2-mediated H3K27 trimethylation in driving the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis.

Goal-directed fluid therapy using stroke volume variation on length of stay and postoperative gastrointestinal function after major abdominal surgery-a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The effectiveness of goal-directed fluid therapy (GDFT) in promoting postoperative recovery remains unclear, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of GDFT on length of hospital stay and postoperative recovery of GI function in patients undergoing major abdominal oncologic surgery.

METHODS

In this randomized, double- blinded, controlled trial, adult patients scheduled for elective major abdominal surgery with general anesthesia, were randomly divided into the GDFT protocol (group G) or conventional fluid therapy group (group C). Patients in group C underwent conventional fluid therapy based on mean arterial pressure (MAP) and central venous pressure (CVP) whereas those in group G received GDFT protocol associated with the SVV less than 12% and the cardiac index (CI) was controlled at a minimum of 2.5 L/min/m2. The primary outcomes were the length of hospital stay and postoperative GI function.

RESULTS

One hundred patients completed the study protocol. The length of hospital stay was significantly shorter in group G compared with group C [9.0 ± 5.8 days versus 12.0 ± 4.6 days, P = 0.001]. Postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction (POGD) occurred in two of 50 patients (4%) in group G and 16 of 50 patients (32%) in the control group (P < 0.001). GDFT significantly also shorten time to first flatus by 11 h (P = 0.009) and time to first tolerate oral diet by 2 days (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Guided by SVV and CI, the application of GDFT has the potential to expedite postoperative recovery of GI function and reduce hospitalization duration after major abdominal surgery.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This study was registered on www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov on 07/05/2019 with registration number: NCT03940144.

Construction of the molecularly imprinted adsorbent based on shaddock peel biochar sphere for highly sensitive detection of ribavirin in food and water resources

Ribavirin (RBV) that is not metabolically released into the environment can contaminate the environment and even make organisms resistant to it. Therefore, it is of great significance to establish a simple and effective method for adsorbing RBV in the environment. In this study, a novel biochar-based boronate affinity molecularly imprinted polymers (C@H@B-MIPs) were synthesized. This is the first time that shaddock peel biochar sphere was used as a carrier for specific recognition of RBV. The polymerization conditions were optimized and the binding properties of RBV were studied. Benefiting from the synergistic effect of boronate affinity and surface imprinting, the C@H@B-MIPs showed rapid equilibrium kinetics of 15 min, high adsorption capacity of 18.30 mg g-1, and excellent reusability for RBV. The linear range was 0.05-100 mg L-1, and the detection limit was 0.023 mg L-1. This method was triumphant applied to the selective adsorption of RBV in food and water resources with recovery rates of 81.4-97.7%. This study provides a practical platform for the manufacture of efficient biomass-based adsorbents.

Portable smartphone-integrated AuAg nanoclusters electrospun membranes for multivariate fluorescent sensing of Hg2+, Cu2+ and l-histidine in water and food samples

Detection of heavy metals have been pivotal due to their non-biodegradability and food chain accumulation. Herein, a multivariate ratiometric sensor was developed by in situ integrating AuAg nanoclusters (NCs) into electrospun cellulose acetate nanofibrous membranes (AuAg-ENM) for visual detection of Hg²⁺, Cu²⁺ and consecutive sensing of l-histidine (His), which was integrated into a smartphone platform for quantitative on-site detection. AuAg-ENM achieved multivariate detection of Hg²⁺ and Cu²⁺ by fluorescence quenching, and subsequent selective recovery of the Cu²⁺-quenched fluorescence by His, which distinguished Hg²⁺ and Cu²⁺ and fulfilled determination of His simultaneously. Notably, AuAg-ENM achieved selective monitoring of Hg²⁺, Cu²⁺ and His in water, food and serum samples with high accuracy comparable to ICP and HPLC tests. A logic gate circuit was devised to further explain and promote the application of AuAg-ENM detection by smartphone App. This portable AuAg-ENM provides a promising reference for fabricating intelligent visual sensors for multiple detection.

Effect of statins on pulmonary function in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory lung disease, and its treatment is still controversial. Statins have been proven to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, but their effectiveness in the treatment of COPD is still unclear. We conducted this meta-analysis to more accurately evaluate the therapeutic effect of statins on COPD patients.

METHODS

Randomized controlled studies published in PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Wiley Online Library, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wanfang databases from inception to July 2022 were retrieved to evaluate the effect of statins on COPD patients. Two evaluators conducted literature screening based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, and conducted a bias risk assessment on them. Meta analysis was conducted using Stata17.0 statistical software.

RESULTS

A total of 1,463 patients from 10 studies were included. After statin treatment, the percentage of predicted forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1%pred) of COPD patients was improved [weighted mean difference (WMD): 7.89; 95% confidence interval (CI): 7.19-8.60; P<0.05], and the level of the inflammatory factor C-reactive protein (CRP) decreased (WMD: -0.63; 95% CI: -1.84, 0.58; P<0.05). The 6-minute walking distance (6MWD) of patients in the statin treatment group demonstrated a significant benefit (WMD: 26.27; 95% CI: 24.02-28.51; P<0.05). Compared to the placebo control group, statins significantly reduced COPD Assessment Test (CAT) (WMD: -2.45; 95% CI: -3.62, -1.27).

CONCLUSIONS

Preliminary evidence suggests that statins may have a certain effect on improving lung function, reducing inflammatory factor levels, and improving clinical symptoms in COPD patients. However, due to the quality and quantity limitations of the included studies, these results need to be further verified through a larger, higher quality randomized controlled trial (RCT).

Controllable synthesis of bifunctional magnetic carbon dots for rapid fluorescent detection and reversible removal of Hg2

Mercury is one of the most toxic heavy metals, whose identification and separation are crucial for environmental remediation. Till now, it remains a significant challenge upon simultaneous detection and removal of Hg²⁺. Herein, bifunctional probe magnetic carbon dots were synthesized and optimized via systematic structure manipulation of the carbon and iron precursors towards fluorescence, Hg²⁺ adsorption and magnetic separation. The probe exhibited blue emission at 440 nm with high quantum yield of 55 % and a high paramagnetism with the saturation magnetization value of 22.70 emu/g. Furthermore, the fluorescent detection of Hg²⁺ with limit of 5.40 nM and high selectivity were achieved through surface structure manipulation with moderate -NH₂, -SH and Fe contents. As a result, the magnetic removal of Hg²⁺ was consecutively effectuated with high removal efficiency of 98.30 %. The detection and recovery of Hg²⁺ in real samples were further verified and demonstrated the excellent environmental tolerance of probe. The reusability was viable with recycling at least three turns by external magnet. This work not only provides a promising approach for simultaneous detection and removal of heavy metal pollution, but also provides an excellent example as a versatile platform for multifunction integration via the structure manipulation for other applications.

The synthesis of gold nanoclusters with high stability and their application in fluorometric detection for Hg2+ and cell imaging

Sensing Hg²⁺ is significant to protecting human health and environmental ecosystems, for its toxicity and genotoxicity. Here, highly stable fluorescent folic acid (FA)-protected Au nanoclusters (FA-AuNCs) were synthesized by optimizing the reactive parameters with high quantum yield of 34.7%. Main components of Au₄L were confirmed by MALDI-TOF, and the electron-rich residues of FA shell enabled FA-AuNCs excellent photostability. FA-AuNCs exhibited sensitive response behavior to Hg²⁺ with a minimum detectability of 1.3 nM, and presented extreme effect to the detection of Hg²⁺ in real water. Notably, the cellular imaging and in-situ detection of Hg²⁺ in cells can be achieved visually. The high selectivity was attributed to the chemical bond formed between Au⁺ (4f¹⁴5d¹⁰) and Hg²⁺ (4f¹⁴5d¹⁰). And the internal filter effect and static quenching effect were proved triggering the quenching of FA-AuNCs. The ultra-stable FA-AuNCs provide a potential promising opportunity for the in-situ tracing Hg²⁺ from environmental and biological samples.

The fabrication of N-doped carbon dots by methionine and their utility in sensing Cu2+ in real water

Copper ions (Cu²⁺) are ubiquitous in the ecosystem and cause serious environmental pollution, posing a threat to human health. Therefore, sensitive detection of Cu²⁺ is urgently needed. Herein, we employed a solvothermal method to prepare blue-emitting carbon dots (Met-CDs) using formamide (FA) and methionine (Met) as precursors, with a high quantum yield (QY) of 38%. Based on the good optical stability of Met-CDs and selective quenching by Cu²⁺, a sensitive probe using Met-CDs for the detection of Cu²⁺ in water was successfully designed. Within the linear range of 0.15-2 μM, the limit of detection (LOD) was determined to be as low as 47.7 nM, enabling the quantitative detection of Cu²⁺. Moreover, the recovery data of the spiked analysis of lake/river water samples were also satisfactory and verified the feasibility of the probe by the analysis of Cu²⁺ in natural conditions.

Grain Refinement Mechanism of 5A06 Aluminum Alloy Sheets during Cold Rotary Forging

This paper studies the grain refinement mechanisms of 5A06 aluminum alloy sheets in cold rotary forging (CRF). The results show that the grains are clearly refined from 25.1 µm to 11.8 µm during the CRF process. The grain refinement mechanism can be divided into two modes: (1) The grains with a small Schmid factor (SF) are activated by multi-slip systems, and dense dislocations are segregated along the boundaries of interior regions with different slip systems, which results in a rapidly increasing strain localization along these boundaries. Since the strain localization restrains the coordinate slip deformation between different interior regions, the grains are directly separated into several finer grains. (2) The grains with a large SF are primarily activated by a single slip system, and the dislocation migrates smoothly along most microband boundaries. Then, a more severe lattice rotation causes a transformation to a hard orientation and multi-slip system activation, which contributes to an increase in the rapid misorientation across microband boundaries and thus promotes significant SF grain refinement.

The 100 most cited articles in lateral epicondylitis research: A bibliometric analysis

Introduction

Lateral epicondylitis is a significant clinical problem in orthopaedics. There have been numerous articles written about this. Bibliometric analysis is critical for determining a field's most influential study. We attempt to identify and analyze the top 100 citations in lateral epicondylitis research.

Materials and methods

On December 31, 2021, an electronic search was conducted in the Web of Science Core Collection and the Scopus search engine with no restrictions on publication years, language, or study design. We reviewed each article's title and abstract until the top 100 were documented and evaluated in various ways.

Results

Between 1979 and 2015, the 100 most cited articles were published in 49 journals. The total number of citations ranged from 75 to 508 (mean ± SD, 145.5 ± 90.9), with citation densities ranging from 2.2 to 37.6 citations per year (mean ± SD, 8.7 ± 6.5). The United States is the most productive country, and the 2000s witnessed a surge in lateral epicondylitis research. The year of publication had a moderately positive correlation with citation density.

Conclusion

Our findings offer readers a fresh perspective on historical development hotspot areas of lateral epicondylitis research. Disease progression, diagnosis, and management have always been topics of discussion in articles. PRP-based biological therapy has emerged as a promising area for future research.

The synthesis of carbon dots by folic acid and utilized as sustainable probe and paper sensor for Hg2+ sensing and cellular imaging

In this work, the blue emission carbon dots (FA-CDs) are synthesized by one-pot solvothermal method by using folic acid as precursor. The FA-CDs emitted bright emission at 445 nm when excited at 360 nm with the QY of 31.2 %. The FA-CDs exhibit sensitive quenching response to Hg²⁺ with variable concentrations systematically, which determined FA-CDs can be employed as fluorescent probe, with a reliable linear relationship between fluorescence intensity and Hg²⁺ concentration, and a limit of detection (LOD) of 1.29 nM. Notably, the quenched FA-CDs can be recovered by using EDTA saturated solution with the emission comparable to initial in succession. The FA-CDs based paper sensor can be explored with similar detection performance, and it can also be restored by EDTA saturated solution. Both the restored CDs and paper sensor can be reused in the next turn for detecting Hg²⁺, which allowed the FA-CDs and their paper sensor can be serviced as sustainable probe for Hg²⁺ detection. The visual LOD of paper sensor can be determined at 0.1 μM, notably, the paper sensor can be reused at least 3 times with good performance, which is beneficial to environmental protection and saving resources. Possess excellent water solubility and non-toxic properties, the cellular imaging of FA-CDs was evaluated with excellent quality fluorescent image results. The FA-CDs provide a promising convenient fluorescent probe for multi-application in detection and imaging.

Amino acid-immobilized copper ion-modified carbon-based adsorbent for selective adsorption of bovine hemoglobin

We prepared an amino acid-immobilized copper ion-modified carbon-based adsorbent (C@TA@P@A-Cu) for selective bovine hemoglobin (BHb) adsorption in biological samples. Carbon nanoparticles were used as the matrix, and copper ions were attached to the amino acid-modified carbon nanoparticles as metal chelate complexes via immobilized metal affinity. BSA, Lyz, OVA, and HRP were chosen as reference proteins for further study. Furthermore, the synthesis conditions of adsorbents, SPE conditions, selectivity, competitivity, reproducibility, and reusability were extensively investigated. The results showed that the maximum adsorption capacity of C@TA@P@A-Cu microspheres for BHb under optimal conditions was 673.0 mg g^-1. The addition of a TiO₂ layer with an increased specific surface area of the adsorbent and the addition of poly-l-lysine (PLL) inhibited the adsorbent's binding ability to non-BHb proteins, but chelated Cu²⁺ increased the adsorbent's specific binding ability to BHb. Furthermore, after six adsorption-desorption cycles, the adsorbent has satisfactory reusability with no significant change in adsorption capacity. Furthermore, C@TA@P@A-Cu was successfully used to identify BHb from real blood samples, as confirmed by SDS-PAGE, and it is expected to have potential applications in protein purification and disease diagnosis.

The role of GRP78 in oxidative stress induced by tunicamycin in trabecular meshwork cells

OBJECTIVE

To clarify the regulatory effect of GRP-78 induced by tunicamycin on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress.

METHODS

Tunicamycin was used to induce ER stress in trabecular meshwork cells (HTMC and GTM3). Cell apoptosis and ROS content were detected by flow cytometry to reveal the effect of tunicamycin on trabecular meshwork cells.

RESULTS

Tunicamycin could significantly increase the ROS content and the apoptosis rate in HTMC and GTM3 (p<0.01). The results showed that tunicamycin could increase the Ca2+ flow in cells. Tunicamycin can also increase expression levels of GRP78,VDAC1, ATF4, PERK, eIF2a, and CHOP (p<0.01). Overexpression of GRP78 protected cells from ER stress. Co-IP test showed that GRP78 directly bound to eIF2. These results suggest that GRP78 may play a regulatory role by regulating eIF2.

CONCLUSION

Tunicamycin induces oxidative stress in trabecular meshwork cells, and the increase in GRP78 expression can protect the cells during ER stress by regulating eIF2.

The controllable synthesis of orange-red emissive Au nanoclusters and their use as a portable colorimetric fluorometric probe for dopamine

The fabrication of orange-red emissive M-AuNCs and their utility in the detection of dopamine assisted by a smartphone.

Green and facile synthesis of silicon doped carbon dots with their use in detection for Hg2+ and visualization of latent fingerprints

Mercury (Hg) is the most toxic heavy metal which can lead severe irreversible injure to human health and serious pollution. It is of great significance to explore precise and facile...

Preparation of fluorescent bimetallic silver/copper nanoparticles and their utility of dual-mode fluorimetric and colorimetric probe for Hg2

A dual-mode colorimetric and fluorimetric probe was successfully established based on silver/copper bimetallic nanoparticles (AgCu-BNPs). The AgCu-BNPs were confirmed as individually bimetallic nanoparticles with a mean size of 7.7 ± 0.2 nm, as characterized by high resolution transmission electron microscopy. Intriguingly, the AgCu-BNPs possess both surface plasmon resonances (SPR) and fluorescence emission. AgCu-BNPs emanate bright blue fluorescence with optical emission centered at 442 nm with high quantum yield of 30.3%, and AgCu-BNPs were attenuated or even quenched by Hg²⁺ via both static and dynamic quenching, coincidently accompanied by a visible color change, which endow AgCu-BNPs a unique utility as dual-mode colorimetric and fluorimetric probes. The detection limits as low as 89 nM and 9 nM were determined by dual-mode of AgCu-BNPs, respectively. The recovery rates in real samples were found to be 97.3-118.8%, and 89.5-112.7% by colorimetric and fluorescent methods separately, demonstrates the good environmental tolerance of the dual-mode probe.

The synthesis of Cu nanoclusters and their dual mode colorimetric and fluorescent sensing for 2,4-dinitrophenol

Herein, we have reported a facile one-pot strategy to synthesize fluorescent Cu nanclusters (Cu NCs) by using ʟ-histidine as stabilizer, and ascorbic acid as reducing agent. Cu NCs are stable, water-dispersible, and emit bright cyan emission with a quantum yield 26.08%. The Cu NCs can be employed as colorimetric and fluorimetric dual-mode detector, exhibiting excellent selectivity and sensitivity for detecting 2,4-dinitrophenol (DNP) specifically. Notably, Cu NCs were a sensitive sensor, which had speciality to detect DNP in range of linearity from 0.01 to 0.15 mM with a discernable limit as low as 3.96μM. The mechanism of efficiently selective detection of DNP by Cu NCs was analyzed by UV absorption, fluorescence decay spectrum, and the performance of 'turn off' towards DNP was determined as the inner filter effect and static quenching effect. Further, the environmental tolerance of the Cu NCs probe was estimated by using the different natural water samples, demonstrating its great promise in the field of DNP monitoring and water sample analysis.

Carbon dots-magnetic nanocomposites for the detection and removal of Hg2

The dual functional detection and removal of heavy ion metals by carbon dots has become an urgent matter of concern. Here, a unique fluorescent carbon dot-magnetic nanocomposite (Fe₃O₄/CDs) was prepared by hydrothermal methods for sensitive detection of Hg²⁺. The Fe₃O₄/CDs serve as fluorescent probes with higher selectivity and sensitivity for Hg²⁺, with the lowest detectable limit of 0.3 nM. Hg²⁺ statically quenched the blue emission of Fe₃O₄/CDs, which can be restored in the presence of saturated EDTA solution. The utilization of Fe₃O₄/CDs was fulfilled by recovering their emission conveniently. The recovery of Hg²⁺ in Chagan Lake water, tap water and drinks was calculated at 96.5 ~ 108.8%, which demonstrates the feasibility of the Fe₃O₄/CDs sensing system in natural samples. Notably, the Fe₃O₄/CDs can drive the effective removal of Hg²⁺ from samples, which is of outstanding significance as a promising probe in environmental monitoring.

Risk of non-vertebral fractures in men with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies

PURPOSE

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder. Research regarding the risk of non-vertebral fractures in men, especially in elderly men with T2DM, has not been a priority. T2DM is not a known independent risk factor for low-energy fractures in patients. We aimed to explore the relationship between men (especially older men) with T2DM and the risk of non-vertebral fractures and the reasons for the sex differences.

METHODS

The PubMed, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for articles on T2DM and fracture risk. A meta-analysis, including heterogeneity testing, publication bias analysis, and subgroup analysis of the included studies, was performed using STATA software.

RESULTS

Sixteen studies involving 1,758,225 participants, 59,909 non-vertebral fracture events, and 6430 vertebral fracture events were included in this research. The adjusted relative risk of T2DM and non-vertebral fracture in men was 1.20 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.09-1.31), implying that men with T2DM have a slightly increased risk of non-vertebral fracture.

CONCLUSION

Male patients with T2DM have a slightly increased risk of non-vertebral fractures. Due to the differences in bone strength, sex steroid hormone levels, bone quality and muscle strength and balance, men with type 2 diabetes have a lower risk of non-vertebral fractures than women.

Yunpi Heluo decoction attenuates insulin resistance by regulating SIRT1-FoxO1 autophagy pathway in skeletal muscle of Zucker diabetic fatty rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Diabetes is a serious chronic metabolic disorder, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) accounts for more than 90% of all diabetes cases. Insulin resistance (IR) is an early symptom, typical feature and main pathogenesis of T2DM due to the combined effects of genetic and environmental factors. Current evidence shows that IR is mainly caused by nutrient overload, systemic fatty acid excess, fatty tissue inflammation, endoplasmic reticulum stress, oxidative stress and abnormal autophagy. Autophagy plays an important role in the development of IR and decreased autophagy activity can cause IR through various ways.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Yunpiheluo (YPHL) decoction is a Chinese herbal formula with unique advantages for the treatment of T2DM. The aim of the present study was to investigate the regulatory mechanism of YPHL on the autophagy pathway in the skeletal muscle of IR Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats.

METHODS

T2DM ZDF rats were treated with YPHL or transfected with SIRT1 adeno-associated virus. Serum total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), insulin resistance index (IRI) and skeletal muscle TG levels were detected in a T2DM ZDF rat model. The skeletal muscle morphology was observed by histological analysis and Oil Red O Staining. Autophagosomes were observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The skeletal muscle morphology and fat deposition were observed by histological examination and Oil Red O Staining. A rat skeletal muscle IR cell model was established and transfected with SIRT1 overexpression plasmids. Cell apoptosis was observed by DAPI staining. SIRT1 levels in skeletal muscle tissues and cells were detected by qRT-PCR. The protein expressions of SIRT1, FOXo1, LC3B and P62 were detected by Western blotting.

RESULTS

Large numbers of lipid droplets and swollen mitochondria were observed in the skeletal muscle in both model group and negative control (NC) group receiving blank plasmid. Autophagosomes were seen in the skeletal muscle of YPHL and SIRT1 groups, with no significant structural abnormality. In addition, the protein expression of LC3B was decreased and the protein expression of p62 was increased significantly in the model group as compared with the NC group. After intervention with YPHL and SIRT1 overexpression, the protein expression of LC3B was significantly increased and p62 was significantly decreased. However, there was no significant difference in cell apoptosis between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

The SIRT1-FoxO1 autophagy pathway may play a significant role in the pathogenesis of IR. YPHL could increase the autophagy level by regulating the SIRT1-FoxO1 signaling pathway in the skeletal muscle and improving the lipid metabolism, thereby attenuating IR.

A reusable catalyst based on CuO hexapods and a CuO-Ag composite for the highly efficient reduction of nitrophenols

The enormous and urgent need to explore cost-effective catalysts with high efficiency has always been at the forefront of environmental protection and remediation research. This work develops a novel strategy for the fabrication of reusable CuO-based non-noble metal nanomaterials as high-efficiency catalysts. We report a facile and eco-friendly synthesis of CuO hexapods and CuO–Ag composite using uric acid as a reductant and protectant. Both exhibited high catalytic activity in the hydrogenation of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) to 4-aminophenol (4-AP) by sodium borohydride (NaBH₄), with the CuO–Ag composite showing superior catalytic performance. Notably, the highest turnover frequency of CuO–Ag reached 7.97 × 10⁻² s⁻¹, which was much higher than numerous noble-metal nanomaterials. In addition, CuO hexapods and CuO–Ag composite were also shown to act as highly efficient and recyclable catalysts in the degeneration of 4-NP. Both CuO hexapods and the CuO–Ag composite exhibited outstanding catalytic durability, with no significant loss of activity over more than 10 cycles in the hydrogenation of 4-NP.

Schematic illustration for the process of preparing CuO hexapods and CuO–Ag composite, and their application in catalytically reducing 4-NP and K₃(Fe(CN)₆).

Trelagliptin stimulates osteoblastic differentiation by increasing runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2): a therapeutic implication in osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, an aging-associated bone metabolic disease, is affecting millions of people worldwide. The deregulated process of osteoblastic differentiation has been linked with the progression of osteoporosis. Trelagliptin is a long-acting inhibitor of DPP-4 used for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. However, it is unknown whether Trelagliptin possesses a beneficial effect in osteoblastic differentiation. Interestingly, we found that treatment with Trelagliptin enhanced differentiation and promoted the mineralization of MC3T3-E1 cells. Firstly, Trelagliptin increased the activity of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and promoted osteoblastic calcium deposition. Additionally, treatment with Trelagliptin upregulated ALP, osteocalcin (OCN), osteopontin (OPN), and bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2). Notably, Trelagliptin increased RUNX2, a major regulator of osteoblastic differentiation. Mechanistically, Trelagliptin upregulated the levels of p-AMPKα. Blockage of AMPK with compound C abolished the effects of Trelagliptin in RUNX2 and osteoblastic differentiation, suggesting the involvement of AMPK. Our findings suggest that Trelagliptin might possess a potential for the treatment of osteoporosis.

Designed sponges based on chitosan and cyclodextrin polymer for a local release of ciprofloxacin in diabetic foot infections

Diabetic foot infections are the most common complications requiring hospitalisation of patients with diabetes. They often result in amputation to extremities and are associated with high morbi-mortality rates, especially when bone is infected. Treatment of these complications is based on surgical procedures, nursing care and systemic antibiotic therapy for several weeks, with a significant risk of relapse. Due to low blood flow and damage caused by diabetic foot infection, blood supply is decreased, causing low antibiotic diffusion in the infected site and an increase of possible bacterial resistance, making this type of infection particularly difficult to treat. In this context, the aim of this work was to develop a medical device for local antibiotic release. The device is a lyophilized physical hydrogel, i.e a sponge based on two oppositely charged polyelectrolytes (chitosan and poly(cyclodextrin citrate)). Cyclodextrins, via inclusion complexes, increase drug bioavailability and allow an extended release. Using local release administration increases concentrations in the wound without risk of toxicity to the body and prevents the emergence of resistant bacteria. The hydrogel was characterised by rheology. After freeze-drying, a curing process was implemented. The swelling rate and cell viability were evaluated, and finally, the sponge was impregnated with a ciprofloxacin solution to evaluate its drug release profile and its antibacterial activity.

Six1 Overexpression Promotes Glucose Metabolism and Invasion Through Regulation of GLUT3, MMP2 and Snail in Thyroid Cancer Cells

Introduction

Sineoculis homeobox homolog 1 (Six1) overexpression has been implicated in several human cancers. To date, its clinical significance and potential function in human thyroid cancer remain unclear.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry was used to examine the protein expression of BCAT1 in 89 cases of thyroid cancer tissues. We overexpressed and knockdown Six1 in TPC-1 and B-CPAP thyroid cancer cell lines. Biological roles and potential mechanisms of Six1 were examined using CCK-8, colony formation assay, Matrigel invasion assay, Western blot, PCR, ATP assay, and 2-NBDG uptake assay.

Results

We showed that Six1 protein was upregulated in thyroid cancers and was associated with tumor size and nodal metastasis. Analysis of TCGA dataset indicated that Six1 mRNA was higher in thyroid cancers compared with normal thyroid. CCK-8, colony formation and Matrigel invasion assays demonstrated that Six1 overexpression promoted proliferation, colony number and invasion while Six1 siRNA knockdown inhibited the growth rate, colony formation ability and invasive ability in both cell lines. Notably, Six1 upregulated glucose consumption, lactate production level and ATP level. 2-NBDG uptake analysis showed that Six1 overexpression upregulated glucose uptake while Six1 knockdown inhibited glucose uptake. Further analysis revealed that Six1 overexpression upregulated Snail, MMP2 and GLUT3 at both mRNA and protein levels. TCGA analysis demonstrated positive associations between Six1 and Snail, MMP2 and GLUT3 at the mRNA levels.

Conclusion

Taken together, our data demonstrated that Six1 was upregulated in human thyroid cancers and promoted cell proliferation and invasion. Our data also revealed new roles of Six1 in thyroid cancer development by modulating glucose metabolism and invasion, possibly through regulation of Snail, MMP2 and GLUT3.

Recurrence-Associated Long Non-coding RNA LNAPPCC Facilitates Colon Cancer Progression via Forming a Positive Feedback Loop with PCDH7

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) gradually show critical regulatory roles in many malignancies. However, the lncRNAs implicated in colon cancer recurrence are largely unknown. In this study, we searched the lncRNAs associated with metastasis and recurrence of colon cancer using GEO datasets. We focused on a novel lncRNA long non-coding RNA associated with poor prognosis of colon cancer (LNAPPCC), which is highly expressed in colon cancer. Increased expression of LNAPPCC is positively associated with metastasis, recurrence, and poor survival of colon cancer patients. LNAPPCC promotes colon cancer cell proliferation, migration, and in vivo xenograft growth and liver metastasis. Mechanistic investigations revealed that LNAPPCC binds EZH2, represses the binding of EZH2 to PCDH7 promoter, downregulates histone H3K27me3 level in PCDH7 promoter, and activates PCDH7 expression. Intriguingly, we also found that PCDH7 activates ERK/c-FOS signaling, increases the binding of c-FOS to LNAPPCC promoter, and activates LNAPPCC expression. Therefore, LNAPPCC and PCDH7 form a positive regulatory loop via EZH2 and ERK/c-FOS. The positive correlations between the expression of LNAPPCC, PCDH7, phosphorylated ERK, and phosphorylated c-FOS are detected in colon cancer tissues. Furthermore, depletion of PCDH7 or the adding of ERK inhibitor abolished the oncogenic roles of LNAPPCC in colon cancer. In summary, this study identified a novel lncRNA LNAPPCC that is highly expressed in colon cancer and associated with poor prognosis of colon cancer patients. LNAPPCC exerts oncogenic roles in colon cancer via forming a positive feedback loop with PCDH7. Targeting LNAPPCC/EZH2/PCDH7/ERK/c-FOS signaling axis represents a potential therapeutic strategy for colon cancer.

A facile synthesis of magnetic fluorescence Fe3O4-carbon dots for the detection and removal of Hg2+

This article reports a one-pot hydrothermal strategy for preparing fluorescence carbon dots with magnetic properties (Fe₃O₄-CDs). The Fe₃O₄-CDs can be utilized for the detection of Hg²⁺, simultaneously accompanied with a magnetic removal process.

Green synthesis of carbon dots by celery leaves for use as fluorescent paper sensors for the detection of nitrophenols

Schematic of synthesis CDs, extending to paper sensor and using in detection.

The synthesis and catalytic activity of bimetallic CuAg nanoparticles and their magnetic hybrid composite materials

Bimetallic CuAg nanoparticles were synthesized using uric acid as a stabilizer, Fe₃O₄ loaded CuAg nanoparticles (Fe₃O₄–CuAg NPs) were also fabricated, and the morphology and content of both CuAg NPs and Fe₃O₄–CuAg NPs were investigated.

NR2F1-AS1 regulated miR-423-5p/SOX12 to promote proliferation and invasion of papillary thyroid carcinoma

Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is an aggressive histological subtype of thyroid carcinoma (THCA), whose occurrence rate is high. The participation of long noncoding RNAs in the pathologies of cancers has attracted significant attention during the past decades. The purpose of the current study is to investigate the role of NR2F1 antisense RNA 1 (NR2F1-AS1) in PTC. The expression of NR2F1 in THCA samples was analyzed by bioinformatics tool gene expression profiling interactive analysis. Levels of NR2F1-AS1, microRNA-423-5p (miR-423-5p), and SRY-box 12 (SOX12) were evaluated by a quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. The impact of NR2F1-AS1 on PTC cell proliferation and invasion was assessed by Cell Counting Kit-8, EdU, and Transwell invasion assays. The interactions among NR2F1-AS1, miR-423-5p, and SOX12 were determined by RNA immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter assays. Consequently, we found that NR2F1-AS1 and SOX12 levels were elevated in PTC, whereas miR-423-5p was downregulated in PTC cells. Functionally, NR2F1-AS1 silence led to reduced proliferation and invasion of PTC cells. Mechanistically, NR2F1-AS1 interacted with miR-423-5p to induce SOX12 expression in PTC cells. In conclusion, the present study firstly stated that NR2F1-AS1 regulated miR-423-5p/SOX12 to promote proliferation and invasion of PTC, indicating NR2F1-AS1 as a potential novel target for the molecular-targeted therapy of PTC.

[The analysis of mutations in non-syndromic deafness gene SLC26A4 by next generation sequencing technology]

Objective:To analogize the distribution of nonsyndromic deafness gene SLC26A4 mutation and to characterize clinical profiles in patients with SLC26A4 mutation in order to understand their hereditary etiologies and provide evidence for deafness screening and accurate genetic counseling. Method: SLC26A4 gene was first analized by MALDI-TOF-MS technology to detect the hot mutation c.919-2A>G in 57 cases. There were 3 cases with homozygous mutation and 7cases with heterozygous mutation. Then 54 cases except for 3 cases with homozygous mutation were analyzed by targeted genomic capturing and next generation sequencing technologies(targeted DNA-Hiseq), 81 non-syndromic deafness genes and the chondiogene was designed to all their exons and their flanking intron(±10 bp) sequences. Sanger sequencing was used to confirm the variant by analyzing the DNAs sequences. Result: The carrying rates of SLC26A4 gene in the deafness were 26.32%, but SLC26A4 homozygous genes and compound heterozygous genes were 19.30%. They included 3 cases with c.919-2A>G and 1 case with c.754T>C pathogenic homozygous mutations. While in 7 cases with compound heterozygous there were 6 cases with two pathogenic mutation, there was 1 case with c.2168A>G pathogenic mutation the other likely pathogenic mutation c.1545-1546insC. The 11 cases all were diagnosed large vestibular aqueduct syndrome(LVAS). There were 4 cases with heterozygous that were not found large vestibular aqueduct. Conclusion: Pathogenic mutation of SLC26A4 is closely related to clinical phenotype of LVAS. The hot pathogenic mutation was c.919-2A>G of SLC26A4 gene. The next generation sequencing technology is available for the diagnosis of inherited hearing loss especially for LVAS.

Micro-scale assessment of the postoperative effect of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction preclinical study using a 7.1T micro-magnetic resonance imaging

High-field micro-magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanning may provide additional information for quantitative analysis of graft bone healing processes, thus serving as a promising supplementary method in graft and bone healing evaluation following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) surgery during preclinical studies. The present study included 12 New Zealand white rabbits that underwent ACLR with polyethylene terephthalate (PET) ligament. At 4, 8, and 16 weeks following surgery, 4 rabbits were euthanized and knee joint samples were harvested for a 7.1T micro-magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. The graft bone tunnel diameter and signal noise ratio (SNR) at the region of interest (ROI) were measured. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was performed at each time point to verify the graft bone healing process in histology. The bone tunnel diameter at the graft tunnel interface decreased over time in both femoral and tibial parts. Notably, the tunnel size was smaller than the diameter of the drilling Kirschner wire that was used to observe the femoral part and proximal site of the tibial part at 16 weeks following surgery. SNR research demonstrated that both the femoral and tibial part PET ligaments selected in the ROI exhibited a marked increase in SNR from the initial 4-week results. The micro-MRI result was consistent with that of histological analysis. Micro-MRI scanning was applied in an animal model that underwent ACL reconstruction surgery with PET ligament, and it was determined that micro-MRI is promising in quantitatively observing graft bone healing processes directly with a focus on graft tunnel distances and SNRs.

Facile fabrication of bimetallic Cu–Ag binary hybrid nanoparticles and their application in catalysis

Herein, high efficiency and recyclable Cu–Ag hybrid catalyst (Trp–Cu–Ag) NPs were prepared by the hydrothermal method using l-tryptophan as a reducing agent and protecting reagent.

Sub-Tenon’s urokinase injection-assisted vitrectomy in early treatment of suprachoroidal hemorrhage: Four cases report

BACKGROUND

Suprachoroidal hemorrhage (SCH) is a rare but potentially catastrophic ocular event. Surgery for SCH is often challenging because of the difficulty in resolving the retinal and choroidal detachment. Here, we describe a novel surgical technique in which urokinase is administered by sub-Tenon’s injection to target an organized clot in SCH prior to drainage.

CASE SUMMARY

A consecutive case series of four eyes with serous and hemorrhagic choroidal detachments secondary to cataract surgery or trauma was documented to evaluate the feasibility of using a sub-Tenon’s urokinase injection-assisted 23-gauge and 20-gauge incision to drain choroidal detachments. Urokinase (2000 IU) was given by sub-Tenon’s injection one day before surgery for clot liquefaction. A 23-gauge infusion line was placed in the anterior chamber. A 20-gauge incision was created in the suprachoroidal space 3.5 mm from the limbus. After drainage, pars plana vitrectomy was performed because of concomitant pathology that demanded this additional procedure. Visual acuity, ocular findings, the timing of surgical interventions, surgical procedures, and outcomes were retrospectively reviewed in four patients. Postoperative follow-up of the patients ranged from 6 to 24 mo (mean, 13 mo). After the treatment, all patients achieved excellent anatomical recovery.

CONCLUSION

Sub-Tenon’s urokinase injection-assisted vitrectomy makes clot liquefaction happen in the early treatment stage, resulting in marked stability during the procedure.

Facile preparation of highly sensitive and selective fluorescent paper sensor for the visual and cyclic detection of Cu2+ and Hg2+

The fluorescent paper sensor based on LAA-CQDs was prepared and applied to detect heavy metal ions Cu²⁺ and Hg²⁺. Notably, the paper sensor can be recycled for detecting at least four times, which greatly reduced resource consumption.

Nitrogen-doped carbon dots for the detection of mercury ions in living cells and visualization of latent fingerprints

Nitrogen-doped carbon dots (NCDs) were synthesised using a simple and straightforward solvothermal method.

Orange emissive carbon dots for colorimetric and fluorescent sensing of 2,4,6-trinitrophenol by fluorescence conversion

In this study, infrequent orange carbon nanodots (CNDs) were applied as a dual-readout probe for the effective colorimetric and fluorescent detection of 2,4,6-trinitrophenol (TNP). The orange fluorescence could be rapidly and selectively quenched by TNP, and the colorimetric response from the original pink color to blue could also be captured immediately by the naked eye. A limit of detection of 0.127 μM for TNP was estimated by the fluorescent method and 5 × 10⁻⁵ M by visualized detection. Interestingly, the fluorescence of the CNDs with TNP gradually transitioned from orange to green upon irradiation by a UV lamp, and the colorimetric response transitioned from pink to blue to colorless, which ensured effective multi-response detection of TNP. In addition, the CNDs exhibited bright fluorescence, excellent biocompatibility and low toxicity, making them high-quality fluorescent probes for cellular imaging.

We have described a colorimetric and fluorescent dual-readout probe with a strong and sensitive response towards TNP.