Objective To identify core targets of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by using bioinformatics and specific algorithms, explore their relationships with immune cells, and investigate the causal relationships between immune cells and HCC through Mendelian randomization. Methods Relevant genes associated with the development of HCC were screened using the GEO and TCGA databases. Immune infiltration analysis was conducted using GSVA and CIBERSORT algorithms. A bidirectional Mendelian randomization analysis was then performed to explore the causal relationships between immune cells and HCC. Results A total of 284 HCC-related genes were identified, with 120 genes recognized within the protein interaction network. Immune infiltration analysis revealed significant correlations between key genes and immune cells. Mendelian randomization results indicated that HLA DR on CD33⁺ HLA DR⁺ CD14dim (OR=1.097, 95%CI: 1.002–1.201, P=0.045, P_Bonferroni=0.091) and CD8 on CD28⁺ CD45RA⁺ CD8⁺ T cell (OR=1.123, 95%CI: 1.027–1.228, P=0.011, P_Bonferroni=0.022) were the risk factors for HCC. Conversely, HLA DR⁺⁺ monocyte absolute count was identified as a protective factor for HCC (OR=0.812, 95%CI: 0.702–0.938, P=0.005, P_Bonferroni=0.139). Conclusion The occurrence and development of liver cancer may be related to CDK1, CCNB1, and CDC20, showing a high degree of correlation with Th2 cells, T helper cells, Th17 cells, and DCs. Mendelian randomization shows that HLA DR on CD33⁺HLA DR⁺ CD14dim and CD8 on CD28⁺CD45RA⁺CD8⁺T cells are associated with an increased risk of HCC. The risk of hepatocellular carcinoma is associated with a decrease in the level of HLA DR⁺⁺monocyte absolute count.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of subsequent radiotherapy (RT) following first-line treatment with durvalumab plus chemotherapy in patients with extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC). METHODS: A total of 122 patients with ES-SCLC from three hospitals during July 2019 to December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) analysis was performed to address potential confounding factors. The primary focus of our evaluation was to assess the impact of RT on progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). RESULTS: After IPTW analysis, 49 patients received durvalumab plus platinum-etoposide (EP) chemotherapy followed by RT (Durva + EP + RT) and 72 patients received immunochemotherapy (Durva + EP). The median OS was 17.2 months vs . 12.3 months (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.38, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.17-0.85, P = 0.020), and the median PFS was 8.9 months vs . 5.9 months (HR: 0.56, 95% CI: 0.32-0.97, P = 0.030) in Durva + EP + RT and Durva + EP groups, respectively. Thoracic radiation therapy (TRT) resulted in longer OS (17.2 months vs . 14.7 months) and PFS (9.1 months vs . 7.2 months) compared to RT directed to other metastatic sites. Among patients with oligo-metastasis, RT also showed significant benefits, with a median OS of 17.4 months vs . 13.7 months and median PFS of 9.8 months vs . 5.9 months compared to no RT. Continuous durvalumab treatment beyond progression (TBP) prolonged OS compared to patients without TBP, in both the Durva + EP + RT (NA vs . 15.8 months, HR: 0.48, 95% CI: 0.14-1.63, P = 0.238) and Durva + EP groups (12.3 months vs . 4.3 months, HR: 0.29, 95% CI: 0.10-0.81, P = 0.018). Grade 3 or 4 adverse events occurred in 13 (26.5%) and 13 (18.1%) patients, respectively, in the two groups; pneumonitis was mostly low-grade. CONCLUSION Addition of RT after first-line immunochemotherapy significantly improved survival outcomes with manageable toxicity in ES-SCLC.
Humans ; Small Cell Lung Carcinoma/therapy* ; Retrospective Studies ; Male ; Female ; Middle Aged ; Lung Neoplasms/therapy* ; Aged ; Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use* ; Adult ; Immunotherapy/methods* ; Aged, 80 and over

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between erectile dysfunction (ED) and myocardial infarction (MI) using two sample Mendelian randomization. METHODS: A Mendelian randomization study was conducted using comprehensive data on ED and MI from extensive genome-wide association data. Using inverse variance weighted analysis for causal relationships, and correct for confounding factors using multivariate Mendelian randomization, the potential mediating effects were evaluated as well. Based on Genecard data, the genes related to ED and MI were identified. Molecular docking was used to reveal spontaneously bound drug molecules. RESULTS: Our study found that exposure to ED was a risk factor for MI (OR: 1.001 0, 95% CI: 1.000 2－1.001 8, P=0.017 7), which also held true in the validation dataset (OR: 1.028 5, 95% CI: 1.005 0－1.052 6, P=0.017 2). No statistically significant heterogeneity or horizontal pleiotropy was found. The results of reverse Mendelian randomization analysis showed any reverse causal relationship between ED and MI. In multivariate Mendelian randomization analysis, after excluding confounding factors (excluding triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein), the P-value remained less than 0.05, and the OR ranged from 1.000 1 to 1.000 7, indicating that ED was still a risk factor for MI. In the mediation analysis, it was found that the current mediation ratio of smoking to MI was 13.06%. In summary-data-based mendelian randomization analysis, it was found that the gene PTPN11 was a common target gene for MI and ED (OR=0.990, P<0.001). Subsequent molecular docking with sildenafil, clopidogrel, and dapoxetine could spontaneously bind to the PTPN11 gene receptor. CONCLUSION There is a causal relationship between ED and MI, with smoking as a potential mediating factor, and the gene PTPN11 being a co-target gene.
Humans ; Male ; Mendelian Randomization Analysis ; Myocardial Infarction/genetics* ; Erectile Dysfunction/complications* ; Risk Factors ; Genome-Wide Association Study ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide

Homo- or heterodimeric compounds that affect dimeric protein function through interaction between monomeric moieties and protein subunits can serve as valuable sources of potent and selective drug candidates. Here, we screened an in-house dimeric natural product collection, and panepocyclinol A (PecA) emerged as a selective and potent STAT3 inhibitor with profound anti-tumor efficacy. Through cross-linking C712/C718 residues in separate STAT3 monomers with two distinct Michael receptors, PecA inhibits STAT3 DNA binding affinity and transcription activity. Molecular dynamics simulation reveals the key conformation changes of STAT3 dimers upon the di-covalent binding with PecA that abolishes its DNA interactions. Furthermore, PecA exhibits high efficacy against anaplastic large T cell lymphoma in vitro and in vivo, especially those with constitutively activated STAT3 or STAT3^Y640F. In summary, our study describes a distinct and effective di-covalent modification for the dimeric compound PecA to disrupt STAT3 function.

Accurate timing of myelination is crucial for the proper functioning of the central nervous system. Here, we identified a de novo heterozygous mutation in TMEM63A (c.1894G>A; p. Ala632Thr) in a 7-year-old boy exhibiting hypomyelination. A Ca²⁺ influx assay suggested that this is a loss-of-function mutation. To explore how TMEM63A deficiency causes hypomyelination, we generated Tmem63a knockout mice. Genetic deletion of TMEM63A resulted in hypomyelination at postnatal day 14 (P14) arising from impaired differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs). Notably, the myelin dysplasia was transient, returning to normal levels by P28. Primary cultures of Tmem63a^-/- OPCs presented delayed differentiation. Lentivirus-based expression of TMEM63A but not TMEM63A_A632T rescued the differentiation of Tmem63a^-/- OPCs in vitro and myelination in Tmem63a^-/- mice. These data thus support the conclusion that the mutation in TMEM63A is the pathogenesis of the hypomyelination in the patient. Our study further demonstrated that TMEM63A-mediated Ca²⁺ influx plays critical roles in the early development of myelin and oligodendrocyte differentiation.
Animals ; Cell Differentiation/physiology* ; Oligodendroglia/metabolism* ; Mice, Knockout ; Mice ; Male ; Myelin Sheath/metabolism* ; Humans ; Child ; Cells, Cultured ; Oligodendrocyte Precursor Cells/metabolism*

Stickler syndrome is a hereditary connective tissue disorder, characterized in ocular manifestations by high myopia and vitreous abnormalities. The progression of the disease can lead to giant retinal tear and rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, making it the most common cause of inherited pediatric retinal detachment. Surgical intervention is the primary treatment for retinal detachment associated with Stickler syndrome. However, there are currently no evidence-based management strategies. Patients typically require multiple surgeries, with low reattachment rates and high recurrence rates, emphasizing the importance of prophylactic treatment. Current prophylactic measures include scleral bucking, laser photocoagulation and retinal cryotherapy, but their absolute benefits remain insufficiently supported. This review summarizes recent advances in the prophylaxis and treatment of retinal detachment in Stickler syndrome, aiming to provide new insights and essential references for the prevention and treatment for such conditions.

ObjectiveTo understand the process and influencing factors affecting the utilization of influenza vaccination services and vaccination decision-making among the elderly in Shanghai, to explore the delivery of influenza vaccination services and the difficulties faced by the health service system, and to provide guidance for optimizing immunization strategies. MethodsBased on the vaccine hesitancy determinants matrix, semi-structured personal interviews were conducted with stakeholders involved in influenza vaccination services in Shanghai from January to February 2024, using a purposive sampling method. Participants were included until thematic saturation was achieved. Interview data were audio-recorded, transcribed, coded, and organized using NVivo 20 software, and analyzed using the thematic framework method. ResultsA total of 25 interviewees were included, including 9 medical staff, 12 elderly people aged 60 and above, and 4 family members. The study found that Shanghai had a well-managed and standardized influenza vaccination service. However, the promotion of vaccine-related information at the grassroots level was passive and limited. Out-of-pocket payment of the vaccine and cultural beliefs of the elderly negatively impacted vaccination rates. Meanwhile, recommendations from family, friends, and medical staff facilitated vaccination, although the impact varied depending on the type of medical staff. Neighborhood committees in townships and streets played a crucial role in delivering vaccination information to the target population. Additionally, the internet, social media, and the COVID-19 vaccine had both positive and negative impacts on influenza vaccination. Strategic optimization of vaccination should prioritize price concessions, enhance publicity strategies, and improve awareness, professionalism, and willingness among medical and healthcare workers to recommend vaccination. ConclusionThe influenza vaccination service in Shanghai is well-managed and standardized. However, it is essential to consider the influence of family and other support systems on the elderly. It is also necessary to enhance the professionalism, service awareness, and willingness to recommend among the medical staff. Furthermore, systematic interventions and publicity efforts should be effectively integrated with social media and the functions of neighborhood committees.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the ameliorative effect of Juanbi Tongluo Oral Liquid on sciatic neuronal apoptosis in Type 2 diabetic model mice.METHODS The Type 2 diabetes mouse model was established by feeding with high-fat and high-sugar diet combined with intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin(STZ).The mice were treated with metformin(200 mg·kg-1·d-1),low dose(3.9 g·kg-1·d-1)and high dose(7.8 g·kg-1·d-1)Juanbi Tongluo Oral Liquid for 35 days.The latency of response to thermal stimu-lation was detected by hot plate,and the values of blood glucose insulin and glycosylated hemoglobin were determined.Biochemical kits were used to detect the expression of serum total cholesterol(T-CHO),triglyceride(TG),high density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-C),low density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C),superoxide dismutase(SOD),catalase(CAT),glutathione peroxidase(GSH-Px)and oxidation product malondialdehyde(MDA).The expression of tumor cytokine α(TNF-α),interleukin(IL)-1β,IL-6 and IL-10 in serum of mice were detected by ELISA method;the injury of sciatic nerve of model mice was detected by HE staining;the apoptosis of sciatic nerve was detected by TUNEL method;and the expression of neurofilament protein NF-L,apoptosis(cleaved Caspase-3,Caspase-3)and oxidative stress(Nrf2,HO-1)signal pathway proteins in sciatic nerve of model mice were detected by Western blot method.RESULTS High-dose Juanbi Tongluo Oral Liquid shortened the latent period of heat pain response in model mice(P<0.01);downregulated fasting blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin(P<0.01),and upregulated fasting plasma insulin in model mice(P<0.01);downregulated serum T-CHO,TG,and LDL-C levels(P<0.01),upregulated HDL-C levels(P<0.01);downregulated serum pro-inflammatory factors TNF-α,IL-1β and IL-6 levels(P<0.05),upregulated the anti-inflammatory cyto-kine IL-10 level(P<0.01);inhibited sciatic nerve structural damage and apoptosis(P<0.05);downregulated the ratio of cleaved Caspase-3 to Caspase-3 in the apoptosis pathway(P<0.01);upregulated the expression of neurofilament proteins NF-L and NF-H in sciatic nerve tissue(P<0.05,P<0.01);and upregulated the expression of antioxidant stress proteins Nrf2 and HO-1(P<0.01).CONCLUSION Juanbi Tongluo Oral Liquid can improve sciatic neuronal apoptosis of Type 2 diabetic mice,which may be related to its effect on improving oxidative stress and inflammatory stress.

Objective To identify the current research hotspots of global health training, and construct a global health talent training evaluation index system. Methods Publications pertaining to global health talent training evaluation were retrieved in China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Database, and Web of Science Core Collection from 2003 to 2022, and keywords were extracted from eligible publications for co-occurrence and cluster analyses using the CiteSpace software. Based on keywords clustering results, a global health talent training evaluation index system was constructed using a context, input, process, and product (CIPP) evaluation model as a theoretical framework. Results A total of 692 Chinese publications and 1 264 English publications were included. Keyword co-occurrence and cluster analyses yielded 10 Chinese and 10 English keyword clusters, and the 10 Chinese keyword clusters included analytic hierarchy process, health diplomacy, personnel structure, crossdiscipline, educational assessment, global health discipline development, training needs, curriculum program, quality evaluation and logistics support, while the English keyword clusters included evidence-based practice, capacity building, global health, quality of life, machine learning, leadership, sub-Saharan Africa, health equity, global health security and global health diplomacy. Based on keyword clustering, a global health talent training evaluation index system was constructed with CIPP as the theoretical framework, which contained 4 primary indicators, 15 secondary indicators and 59 tertiary indicators, and the primary indicators included 4 dimensions of context evaluation, input evaluation, process evaluation and product evaluation. Conclusions A global health talent training evaluation index system has been constructed, which provides an effective evaluation tool and quantitative evidence for future global health talent training.