A high-performance liquid chromatography method using pre-column derivatization with 6-aminoquinolyl-N-hydroxysuccinimidyl carbamate was developed to determine the content of 15 amino acids in the medicinal snakes Bungarus Parvus, Agkistrodon, and Zaocys. The results showed that the total amino acid(TAA) content ranged from 277.13 to 515.05 mg·g~(-1), with the top four amino acids in all three species being glutamic acid(Glu), glycine(Gly), aspartic acid(Asp), and lysine(Lys). The essential amino acid(EAA) content ranged from 74.56 to 203.94 mg·g~(-1), with Agkistrodon exhibiting the highest content. The non-essential amino acid(NEAA), semi-essential amino acid(semi-EAA), and medicinal amino acid(MAA) content ranged from 189.06 to 318.23, 12.89 to 33.53, and 179.83 to 342.33 mg·g~(-1), respectively, with Zaocys having the highest content in these categories. Amino acid nutritional value was evaluated using the amino acid ratio(RAA), amino acid ratio coefficient(RCAA), and amino acid ratio coefficient score(SRCAA), and the results indicated that all three medicinal snakes possessed good nutritional value. The amino acid composition was similar across the species, though significant differences in content were observed. Based on these differences, an orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis(OPLS-DA) model was established, which could clearly distinguish between the three medicinal snake species. The key differences in amino acid content included Gly, tyrosine(Tyr), Glu, and serine(Ser), which may be related to the observed clinical application differences among the species. Further research into the mechanisms of these differential amino acids is expected to provide more insights into the clinical application disparities of these three medicinal snake species.
Amino Acids/chemistry* ; Animals ; Nutritive Value ; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid ; Snakes/classification* ; Bungarus

Baihuasheshecao(Hedyotis diffusa) is a commonly used traditional Chinese medicine derived from the whole herb of H. diffusa and has been widely utilized in folk medicine. It possesses anti-tumor, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it one of the frequently used herbs in TCM clinical practice. However, Shuixiancao(H. corymbosa) and Xianhuaercao(H. tenelliflora), species of the same genus, are often used as substitutes for Baihuasheshecao. To substantiate the medicinal basis of Baihuasheshecao, this study systematically reviewed classical herbal texts and modern literature, examining its nomenclature, botanical origin, harvesting, processing, properties, meridian tropism, pharmacological effects, and clinical applications. The results indicate that Baihuasheshecao was initially recorded as "Shuixiancao" in Preface to the Indexes to the Great Chinese Botany(Zhi Wu Ming Shi Tu Kao). Based on its morphological characteristics and habitat description, it was identified as H. diffusa in the Rubiaceae family. Subsequent records predominantly refer to it as Baihuasheshecao as its official name. In most regions, Baihuasheshecao is recognized as the authentic medicinal material, distinct from Shuixiancao and Xianhuaercao. Baihuasheshecao is harvested in late summer and early autumn, and the dried whole plant, including its roots, is used medicinally. The standard processing method involves cutting. It is known for its effects in clearing heat, removing toxins, reducing swelling and pain, and promoting diuresis to resolve abscesses. Initially, it was mainly used for treating appendicitis, intestinal abscesses, and venomous snake bites, and later, it became a treatment for cancer. The excavation of its clinical value followed a process in which overseas Chinese introduced the herb from Chinese folk medicine to other countries. After its unique anti-cancer effects were recognized abroad, it was reintroduced to China and gradually became a crucial TCM for cancer treatment. The findings of this study help clarify the historical and contemporary uses of Baihuasheshecao, providing literature support and a scientific basis for its rational development and precise clinical application.
Humans ; China ; Drugs, Chinese Herbal/chemistry* ; Hedyotis/classification* ; Medicine, Chinese Traditional/history*

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effectiveness of ultrasound-guided closed reduction with Kirschner wire fixation and open reduction with Kirschner wire fixation in the treatment of humeral lateral condyle fracture (HLCF) in children. METHODS: A clinical data of 53 children with HLCF admitted between May 2020 and April 2023 and met selective criteria was retrospectively analyzed. Of these, 25 cases were managed with closed reduction and Kirschner wire fixation under ultrasound guidance (closed group), while 28 cases underwent open reduction and Kirschner wire fixation (open group). There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of gender, age, cause of injury, fracture side, fracture classification, and time from injury to operation ( P>0.05). The following variables were recorded and compared between the two groups: operation time, intraoperative fluoroscopy frequency, fracture healing time, incidence of complications, and the Flynn elbow function score at last follow-up. RESULTS: In the closed group, the fractures were successfully reduced under ultrasound guidance, with no nerve damage reported in either group. The operation time and intraoperative fluoroscopy frequency were significantly less in the closed group than in the open group ( P<0.05). One case of infection (Kirschner wire irritation) was observed in the closed group, while 3 cases in the open group (2 of Kirschner wire irritation and 1 of incision infection). However, the difference in the incidence of infection between the two groups was not significant ( P>0.05). All patients in both groups were followed up 6-18 months (mean, 10.2 months). X-ray examinations confirmed that fractures had healed in both groups, with no significant difference in healing time ( P>0.05). During follow-up, 5 cases of lateral humeral process formation were observed in the closed group, compared to 12 cases in the open group, although this difference was not significant ( P>0.05). At last follow-up, the excellent and good rate of elbow joint function was evaluated as 96.0% (24/25) in the closed group and 92.9% (26/28) in the open group according to the Flynn scoring criteria, with no significant difference between the two groups ( P>0.05). Both groups showed no occurrence of ossifying myositis or elbow internal/external rotation. CONCLUSION The effectiveness of ultrasound-guided closed reduction and Kirschner wire fixation in the treatment of HLCF in children is comparable to open reduction and Kirschner wire fixation, but the former can reduce operation time and intraoperative fluoroscopy frequency, and obtain lower the incidence of complications.
Humans ; Humeral Fractures/diagnostic imaging* ; Bone Wires ; Male ; Female ; Child ; Retrospective Studies ; Fracture Fixation, Internal/instrumentation* ; Treatment Outcome ; Child, Preschool ; Open Fracture Reduction/methods* ; Fracture Healing ; Elbow Joint/surgery* ; Adolescent ; Closed Fracture Reduction/methods* ; Fluoroscopy ; Operative Time

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the short-term clinical efficacy of external fixation and internal fixation with steel plate in the treatment of unstable distal radius fractures (AO-23C type), based on the principles of Chinese osteosynthesis (CO). METHODS: Forty-eight patients with unstable distal radius fractures between January 2022 and February 2023 were retrospectively analyzed and divided into the CO external fixation group and internal fixation group. CO external fixation group consisted of 25 patients, including 7 males and 18 females, aged from 37 to 56 years old with an average of ( 52.6±11.3) years old. Among them, there were 7 patients of traffic accidents and 18 patients of falls, resulting in a total of 25 patients of closed fractures and no open fractures, the treatment was conducted using closed reduction and CO external fixation. The internal fixation group consisted of 23 patients, comprising 8 males and 15 females, age ranged from 41 to 59 years old, with an average age of(53.3±13.7) years old. Among them, 8 patients resulted from car accidents while the remaining 15 patients were caused by falls. All 23 patients were closed fractures without any open fractures observed. The technique of open reduction and internal fixation with steel plate was employed. The perioperative data, including injury-operation time, operation duration, blood loss, and length of hospital stay, were assessed in both groups. Additionally, the QuickDASH score and visual analogue scale (VAS) were evaluated. Range of motion and grip strength assessment, imaging findings such as palmar inclination angle, ulnar declination angle, radius length, articular surface step, intra-articular space measurements were also examined along with any complications. RESULTS: The follow-up duration ranged from 0 to 24 months, with an average duration of (16.0±3.8) months. The CO external fixation exhibited significantly shorter time from injury to operation (2.4±3.3) d vs (7.4±3.7) d, shorter operation duration (56.27±15.23) min vs (74.10±5.26) min, lower blood loss (14.52±6.54) ml vs (32.32±10.03) ml, and reduced hospitalization days (14.04±3.24 )d vs (16.45±3.05) d compared to the internal fixation group (P<0.05). The QuickDASH score at 12 months post-operation was (8.21±1.64) in the CO external fixation group, while no significant difference was observed in the internal fixation group (7.04±3.64), P>0.05. There were no statistically significant differences in VAS between two groups at 6 weeks, as well as 1 and 3 months post-surgery (P>0.05). Additionally, there were no significant disparities observed in terms of range of motion and grip strength between two groups at the 2-year follow-up after the operation (P>0.05). After 12 months of surgery, the CO external fixation group exhibited a significantly smaller palmar inclination angle (17.90±2.18) ° vs (19.87±3.21) °, reduced articular surface step (0.11±0.03) mm vs (0.17±0.02) mm, and shorter radius length (8.16±1.11) mm compared to the internal fixation group (9.59±1.02) mm, P<0.05. The ulnar deviation angle and intra-articular space did not show any significant difference between two groups (P>0.05). The reduced fell within the allowable range between the CO external fixation group (23 out of 25 cases) and the internal fixation group (21 out of 23 cases) was not statistically significant (P=0.29). There was no significant difference in complications between the two groups(P>0.05). CONCLUSION Both the CO external fixation and open reduction with plate internal fixation demonstrate clinical efficacy in managing unstable distal radius fractures. The CO external fixation offers advantages in shorter injury-to-operation times, reduced intraoperative blood loss, and decreased surgical durations, while radial shortening is more effectively controlled by internal fixation.
Humans ; Male ; Female ; Middle Aged ; Radius Fractures/physiopathology* ; Adult ; Bone Plates ; Fracture Fixation, Internal/methods* ; External Fixators ; Retrospective Studies ; Fracture Fixation/methods* ; Wrist Fractures

Objective: To evaluate the therapeutic potential and underlying mechanisms of action of propolis in db/db mice. Methods: The chemical composition of propolis was analyzed using UHPLC-MS/MS. Thirty mice, including six wt/wt and 24 db/db mice, were randomly assigned to four groups (n = 6 per group): control, model, metformin (250 mg/kg), low dose propolis (100 mg/kg), and high dose propolis (HDP; 400 mg/kg). Treatments were administered orally for four weeks. Body weight and FBG levels were recorded weekly, and an oral glucose tolerance test was conducted on the 25th day. Serum levels of FIN, GSP, connecting peptide, AST, ALT, HDL, LDL, TG, and TC were quantified using ELISA. Liver histopathology was assessed using H&E and PAS staining. Western blotting was performed to examine the expression levels of NF-κB, phosphorylated NF-κB, IκBα, pIκBα, and AKT in liver tissues. Results: The top 10 metabolites of propolis were identified in positive and negative ion modes. The HDP group exhibited a significant reduction in FBG levels, body weight, connecting peptide levels, homeostatic model assessment of β-cell function scores, and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance scores (all P < .05). GSP levels were significantly reduced in both treatment groups (all P < .001). The HDP group also exhibited a reduction in TC and LDL levels (both P < .05), whereas HDL levels increased in both treatment groups (all P < .05). Liver weight, AST levels, and ALT levels were reduced in both treatment groups (all P < .05). Histological analysis revealed improved liver morphology. Protein analysis demonstrated downregulation of phosphorylated NF-κB and phosphorylated IκB, alongside upregulation of AKT. Conclusion Propolis exhibited significant antihyperglycemic effects in db/db mice, potentially by modulating the AKT and NF-κB signaling pathways, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent for diabetes management.

Objective: To investigate the molecular mechanisms and pathways of action of total flavonoids of Dracocephalum moldavica L.(TFDM) in treating vascular cognitive impairment(VCI) based on network pharmacology and in vivo animal experiments. Methods : The swiss target prediction database, literature, and PubChem were used to screen the active components and action targets of TFDM. The online mendelian inheritance in man(OMIM) and GeneCards databases were utilized to screen for possible VCI targets. Venny software was used to obtain the intersection target of TFDM and VCI. The search tool for recurring instances of neighbouring genes(String) database and Cytoscape software was used to construct the PPI network. The database for annotation, visualization and integrated discovery(DAVID) database was utilized to screen for the kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes(KEGG) pathway and gene ontology(GO) enrichment analyses to explore the molecular mechanism and signaling pathway of TFDM for VCI. 24 rats were divided into Sham, Model, Donepezil, and TFDM groups. Except for the Sham group, the VCI model was created using modified bilateral common carotid artery ligation. After continuous gavage for 21 days, the Morris water maze test was used to evaluate the spatial learning and memory ability of rats. Hematoxy-lineosin(HE) staining was used to observe the pathological changes in the hippocampal CA1 and cortex region of the animals and immunohistochemistry detection of zonula occludens-1(ZO-1) content in the brains of the rats. Western blot was used to detect nuclear factor kappa-B p65(NF-κB p65) and tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α) in rat brains. Results : A total of 39 active ingredients of TFDM were screened, 209 corresponding targets, 10 417 gene targets of VCI, and 193 intersecting targets. According to the results of the GO enrichment of function analysis, TFDM could improve the response of reactive oxygen species and metabolic processes of reactive oxygen species, etc. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis suggested that TFDM might regulate TNF, IL-17 signing pathway, etc. The results of animal experiments showed that TFDM improved learning and memory while reduced pathological damage in the brains of VCI rats. In addition, TFDM upregulated the positive expression of ZO-1 and downregulated the protein levels of TNF-α and NF-κB p65(P<0.05). Conclusion TFDM can improve the cognitive function of VCI through multi-components and multi-targets, and its key mechanism may be related to inhibiting TNF-α/NF-κB p65 signaling pathway,reducing neuroinflammation,and improvement of blood-brain barrier permeability.

Objective:To analyze the clinical characteristics and causes of death of patients with pneumoconiosis, and to provide evidence for the prevention and management of pneumoconiosis.Methods:From June 2022 to July 2023, 38 dead patients with pneumoconiosis confirmed by Shandong Academy of Occupational Health and Occupational Medicine were selected as the research objects. The clinical data of patients were collected through hospital information system (HIS) and laboratory information management system (LIS) to analyze the basic situation of patients with pneumoconiosis who died, the distribution of industry types, the course of disease, the nature of work, the type of reimbursement, complications/comorbidities, and the direct causes of death. Univariate analysis of variance was used to compare the course of pneumoconiosis death in patients with different age of exposure to dust.Results:Among the 38 patients with pneumoconiosis, there were 37 males and 1 female. The age of exposure to dust was 5-37 (19.29±8.17) years, the duration of disease was 5-41 (20.26±8.53) years, and the age of death was 27-86 (70.42±12.26) years old. There were 10 cases of stage Ⅰ pneumoconiosis, 18 cases of stage Ⅱ, 10 cases of stage Ⅲ pneumoconiosis and 32 cases (84.21%) of silicosis. There were 30 (78.95%) people aged ≥65 years and 8 (21.05%) people aged <65 years. The industry was mainly metal products (18 workers, 47.37%), and the distribution of work was mainly excavation workers (11 workers, 28.95%). The death course of pneumoconiosis patients with 10-<30 years of exposure to dust accounted for 76.32% (29/38). The average course of pneumoconiosis patients with 20-<30 years of exposure to dust was the longest[ (24.00±9.39) years], and there was no statistically significant difference in the average course of disease among different age of exposure to dust groups ( F=1.81, P=0.165). The working units of the deceased patients were private enterprises or factories, and the hospitalization expenses were borne by individuals for 21 people (55.26%). The working unit was a state-owned enterprise, and 17 people (44.74%) were reimbursed for hospitalization expenses and work-related injuries. The main comorbidities/complications of pneumoconiosis patients were respiratory infection in 18 cases (47.37%) and chronic pulmonary heart disease (47.37%). The top 3 direct causes of death were pneumoconiosis in 13 cases (34.21%), pulmonary infection in 10 cases (26.32%) and lung cancer in 7 cases (18.42%) . Conclusion:Most of 38 cases of pneumoconiosis patients death diseases such as multiple combination of respiratory system, cardiovascular system, respiratory system disease is a major cause of death in pneumoconiosis patients.

Lipids,including fats(triglycerides)and lipoids(phospholipids and sterols),not only serve as an energy source for the body but also play a pivotal role throughout the reproductive process,particularly in the establishment and maintenance of early pregnancy.This encompasses the regulate of early embryonic development and uterine tolerance,and the facilitation of embryo implantation.Given the diversity of lipids,this review focuses on extensively studied lipid mediators such as polyunsaturated fatty acids,endocannabinoids,prostaglandins,lysophosphatidic acid,sphingolipids and steroid hormones.It systematically elaborates on the regulatory effects of fatty acid,phospholipid,and cholesterol metabolism on the formation of endometrial receptivity and embryo implantation,as well as the potential underlying mechanisms.The review aims to provide new insights and feasible intervention approaches for predicting and improving the outcomes of natural pregnancy and/or assisted reproductive technology.

Background::Carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) and diameter, stiffness, and wave reflections, are independent and important clinical biomarkers and risk predictors for cardiovascular diseases. The purpose of the present study was to establish nationwide reference values of carotid properties for healthy Chinese adults and to explore potential clinical determinants.Methods::A total of 3053 healthy Han Chinese adults (1922 women) aged 18-79 years were enrolled at 28 collaborating tertiary centers throughout China between April 2021 and July 2022. The real-time tracking of common carotid artery walls was achieved by the radio frequency (RF) ultrasound system. The IMT, diameter, compliance coefficient, β stiffness, local pulse wave velocity (PWV), local systolic blood pressure, augmented pressure (AP), and augmentation index (AIx) were then automatically measured and reported. Data were stratified by age groups and sex. The relationships between age and carotid property parameters were analyzed by Jonckheere-Terpstra test and simple linear regressions. The major clinical determinants of carotid properties were identified by Pearson’s correlation, multiple linear regression, and analyses of covariance.Results::All the parameters of carotid properties demonstrated significantly age-related trajectories. Women showed thinner IMT, smaller carotid diameter, larger AP, and AIx than men. The β stiffness and PWV were significantly higher in men than women before forties, but the differences reversed after that. The increase rate of carotid IMT (5.5 μm/year in women and 5.8 μm/year in men) and diameter (0.03 mm/year in both men and women) were similar between men and women. For the stiffness and wave reflections, women showed significantly larger age-related variations than men as demonstrated by steeper regression slopes (all P for age by sex interaction <0.05). The blood pressures, body mass index (BMI), and triglyceride levels were identified as major clinical determinants of carotid properties with adjustment of age and sex. Conclusions::The age- and sex-specific reference values of carotid properties measured by RF ultrasound for healthy Chinese adults were established. The blood pressures, BMI, and triglyceride levels should be considered for clinical application of corresponding reference values.