Effects of n-hexane fraction of Piper guineense seed extract on Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride-induced hypertension in rats.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of the n-hexane fraction of the ethanolic seed extract of PG (NFESEPG) on hypertension induced by Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) in rats. Specifically, the study examined the impact of NFESEPG on blood pressure, oxidative stress markers, NO concentration, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and arginase activities, and cardiac biomarkers in hypertensive rats. The study involved collecting, identifying, and processing the PG plant to obtain the ethanolic seed extract. The extract was then partitioned with solvents to isolate the n-hexane fraction. Hypertension was induced in rats by oral administration of L-NAME for 10 days, while concurrent treatment with NFESEPG at two doses (200 and 400 mg/kg/day) was administered orally. Blood pressure was measured using a noninvasive tail-cuff method, and various biochemical parameters were assessed. Treatment with both doses of NFESEPG significantly reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure in L-NAME-induced hypertensive rats. Additionally, NFESEPG administration increased NO concentration and decreased ACE and arginase activities, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and cardiac biomarkers in hypertensive rats. The findings indicate that NFESEPG effectively lowered blood pressure in hypertensive rats induced by L-NAME, potentially through mechanisms involving the modulation of oxidative stress, NO bioavailability, and cardiac biomarkers. These results suggest the therapeutic potential of NFESEPG in managing hypertension and related cardiovascular complications.

Efficacy, safety, and serum cytokine modulation by olopatadine hydrochloride and desloratadine citrate disodium combination therapy in urticaria.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the efficacy, safety, and impact on serum cytokines of olopatadine hydrochloride (OLP) combined with desloratadine citrate disodium (DES) in treating urticaria. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed 114 urticaria patients treated at the Affiliated Hospital of Xinyang Vocational and Technical College from March 2020 to March 2023. The control group (55 patients) received DES, while the research group (59 patients) received OLP+DES combination therapy. We compared efficacy, safety (including epigastric pain, dry mouth, lethargy, dizziness, and fatigue), changes in serum cytokines (interleukin [IL]-2, IL-4, and interferon [IFN]-γ), symptom resolution (wheal number, wheal size, and itching degree), and 3-month recurrence rates. A univariate analysis was also conducted to identify factors influencing urticaria recurrence. RESULTS: The research group exhibited a significantly higher overall efficacy rate, lower incidence of adverse events, and reduced recurrence rates at 3 months (all P<0.05) compared to the control group. Post-treatment, the research group showed significant increases in IL-2 and IFN-γ levels and reductions in IL-4 levels, wheal number, wheal size, and itching degree (all P<0.05). Factors such as history of drinking/smoking, IL-2 levels, and treatment method were associated with urticaria recurrence (all P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The combination of OLP and DES is an effective and safe treatment option for urticaria, significantly improving serum cytokine profiles, alleviating symptoms, and reducing recurrence risk.

Therapeutic effectiveness of Donepezil hydrochloride in combination with butylphthalide for post-stroke cognitive impairment.

OBJECTIVE: To study the therapeutic effectiveness of donepezil hydrochloride (DPZ) in combination with butylphthalide (BP) for the treatment of post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI). METHODS: In this retrospective study, the clinical data of 125 PSCI patients treated at the First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University from December 2019 to December 2023 were collected and analyzed. The patients were grouped into a joint group (n=75, receiving DPZ + BP) and a control group (n=50, receiving DPZ alone) according to their treatment regimen. Inter-group comparisons were then carried out from the perspectives of therapeutic effectiveness, safety (constipation, abdominal distension and pain, and gastrointestinal reactions), cognitive function (Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale [MoCA], Chinese Stroke Scale [CSS]), Activities of Daily Living Scale (ADL), and serum biochemical indexes (neuron-specific enolase [NSE], high-sensitivity C-reactive protein [hs-CRP], nitric oxide [NO], and malondialdehyde [MDA]). In addition, a univariate analysis was carried out to identify factors affecting therapeutic effectiveness in PSCI patients. RESULTS: The joint group showed significantly better therapeutic effectiveness compared to the control group (P<0.05). There was a significant correlation between the type of stroke, treatment method, and therapeutic effectiveness in PSCI patients (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the total incidence of adverse reactions (P>0.05). After the treatment, compared to the control group, the joint group demonstrated significant improvements in MoCA and ADL scores (all P<0.05) and reductions in CSS scores and levels of NSE, hs-CRP, NO, and MDA (all P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: DPZ in combination with BP is highly effective for the treatment of PSCI. It positively affects cognitive function and ADL, alleviates neurological deficits, and reduces abnormal serum biochemical indices without increasing the risk of adverse reaction.

Suspensions of antibiotics in self-emulsifying oils as a novel approach to formulate eye drops with substances which undergo hydrolysis in aqueous environment.

The aim of this study was to develop eye-drops with cefuroxime (CEF) sodium or vancomycin (VAN) hydrochloride, antibiotics that are instable in water. Anhydrous self-emulsifying oils (SEO) are proposed as a carrier and antibiotics are suspended. In the contact with tear fluid, the formulation should transform into emulsion, with fast dissolution of an antibiotic. CEF or VAN (5% w/w) was suspended in SEO carriers prepared by dissolving surfactants (Tween 20 or Span 80 5% w/w) in Miglyol, castor oil, or olive oil. Formulations with or without sodium citrate (2% w/w) were compared. Six-months or 1-year stability tests were carried out at 40 °C. The content of CEF and VAN was evaluated using HPLC and the potency of the antibiotic was assessed with agar diffusion method. In contact with water, drug particles suspended in SEO dissolved rapidly and o/w emulsion was formed. After 1-year at 40 °C, the content of degradation products was at most 0.5% in CEF and 4.0% in VAN formulations. The agar diffusion assay has shown that CEF and VAN loaded into SEO retained its potency against the sensitive microorganisms comparable to an aqueous solution. Therefore, SEO can be used as a novel carrier for the active substances which may not require improved solubility or absorption but need to be protected from moisture. This is a formulation that can be produced on industrial scale, with no limitation of stability or drug concentration.

Sinomenine hydrochloride improves DSS-induced colitis in mice through inhibition of the TLR2/NF-κB signaling pathway.

BACKGROUND: Sinomenine hydrochloride (SH) has anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects, and its effectiveness in inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, has been demonstrated. However, whether SH has a therapeutic effect on dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis (UC) in mice and its mechanism of action have not been clarified. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects and mechanism of action of SH on UC. METHODS: Twenty-four mice were randomly divided into control, model, SH low-dose (SH-L, 20 mg/kg), and SH high-dose (SH-H, 60 mg/kg) groups with six mice in each group. Disease activity index (DAI), colonic mucosal damage index, and colonic histopathology scores were calculated. The expression levels of related proteins, genes, and downstream inflammatory factors in the Toll-like receptor 2/NF-κB (TLR2/NF-κB) signaling pathway were quantified. RESULTS: SH inhibited weight loss, decreased DAI and histopathological scores, decreased the expression levels of TLR2, MyD88, P-P65, P65 proteins, and TLR2 genes, and also suppressed the expression of inflammatory factors TNF-α, IL-1 ß, and IL-6 in the peripheral blood of mice. CONCLUSION: The therapeutic effect of SH on DSS-induced UC in mice may be related to the inhibition of the TLR2/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Effectiveness of Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Combined with Bupivacaine for Combined Spinal and Epidural Anaesthesia in Reducing Postpartum Urinary Retention: A Retrospective Study.

BACKGROUND: Postpartum urinary retention is a common complication following caesarean section, with significant implications for patient comfort and recovery. Combined spinal and epidural anaesthesia is frequently employed for caesarean section, but postpartum urinary retention remains a clinical concern despite its benefits. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of hydromorphone hydrochloride combined with bupivacaine for combined spinal and epidural anaesthesia in reducing postpartum urinary retention. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients who received combined spinal and epidural anaesthesia for caesarean section. The control group received bupivacaine, whereas the hydromorphone hydrochloride combined with bupivacaine spinal-epidural anaesthesia (HB) group received hydromorphone hydrochloride combined with bupivacaine. Data on demographics, anaesthesia, operative characteristics, postoperative urinary retention and adverse events were collected and analysed. RESULTS: The study enrolled 105 patients, with a control group (n = 51) receiving bupivacaine spinal-epidural anaesthesia and an observation group (n = 54) receiving hydromorphone hydrochloride combined with bupivacaine spinal-epidural anaesthesia. The incidence of postoperative urinary retention was significantly lower in the HB group than in the control group (3.70% vs. 17.65%, p = 0.044). Furthermore, the HB group exhibited a shorter time to first voiding after anaesthesia (5.72 ± 1.26 h vs. 6.28 ± 1.35 h, p = 0.029), lower peak postvoid residual volume (168.57 ± 25.09 mL vs. 180.43 ± 30.21 mL, p = 0.032), decreased need for postoperative catheterisation (5.56% vs. 21.57%, p = 0.034) and shorter duration of urinary catheterisation (10.92 ± 2.61 h vs. 12.04 ± 2.87 h, p = 0.039) than the control group. Correlation analysis supported a negative correlation between hydromorphone supplementation and parameters related to postoperative urinary retention. Multivariate regression analysis demonstrated a significant association between the duration of urinary catheterisation and the use of hydromorphone with the occurrence of postoperative urinary retention, providing further insights into the multifactorial nature of this postoperative complication. CONCLUSIONS: The addition of hydromorphone hydrochloride to bupivacaine for combined spinal and epidural anaesthesia was associated with a reduced incidence of postpartum urinary retention and improved postoperative voiding parameters, without significantly increasing the risk of adverse events.

Diagnostic performance of photodynamic diagnosis with oral 5-aminolevulinic acid for upper tract- and bladder urothelial carcinoma: a single-centre, retrospective analysis.

PURPOSE: To compare the diagnostic performance of photodynamic diagnosis (PDD) enhanced with oral 5-aminolaevulinic acid between the suspected upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) and bladder urothelial carcinoma (BUC) cases. METHODS: This retrospective study included 18 patients with suspected UTUC who underwent ureteroscopy (URS) with oral 5-ALA in the PDD-URS cohort between June 2018 and January 2019; and 110 patients with suspected BUC who underwent transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT) in the PDD-TURBT cohort between January 2019 and March 2023. Sixty-three and 708 biopsy samples were collected during diagnostic URS and TURBT, respectively. The diagnostic accuracy of white light (WL) and PDD in the two cohorts was evaluated, and false PDD-positive samples were pathologically re-evaluated. RESULTS: The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of PDD was significantly superior to that of WL in both cohorts. The per biopsy sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of PDD in patients in the PDD-URS and PDD-TURBT cohorts were 91.2 vs. 71.4, 75.9 vs. 75.3, 81.6 vs. 66.3, and 88.0 vs. 79.4%, respectively. The PDD-URS cohort exhibited a higher AUC than did the PDD-TURBT cohort (0.84 vs. 0.73). Seven of four false PDD-positive samples (57.1%) in the PDD-URS cohort showed potential precancerous findings compared with eight of 101 (7.9%) in the PDD-TURBT cohort. CONCLUSION: The diagnostic performance of PDD in the PDD-URS cohort was at least equivalent to that in the PDD-TURBT cohort.

Comparative performance of liquid chromatography and spectrophotometry in determining metformin hydrochloride within pharmaceutical formulations.

The present study compared the performance of Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) and UV-Vis spectrophotometry for the quantification of metformin hydrochloride in five commercially available metformin hydrochloride products with different strengths. The metformin hydrochloride was measured in the UHPLC with a mobile phase consisting of a mixture of 0.05 M phosphate buffer solution and methanol (35:65, v/v) with a pH of 3.6. Metformin hydrochloride was determined spectrophotometrically at 234 nm using a mixture of methanol and water as a blank. The methods' linearity for metformin hydrochloride was within the concentration range of (2.5-40 µg/ml) in both techniques. The validation process encompassed assessments of specificity, selectivity, linearity, accuracy, precision, the lower limit of quantification (LLOQ), the lower limit of detection (LLOD), robustness, and system suitability. For the UHPLC validation method, the repeatability and reproducibility (expressed as relative standard deviation) were less than 1.578 and 2.718 %, respectively. The LLOQ for metformin hydrochloride was 0.625 µg/ml, and the LLOD was 0.156 µg/ml. For the UV-Vis spectrophotometric validation method, the repeatability and reproducibility (stated as relative standard deviation) were less than 3.773 and 1.988 %, respectively. The percentage recovery results for the five brands of metformin hydrochloride tablets were (98-101 %) and (92-104 %) for the UHPLC and UV-Vis spectrophotometric methods, respectively. In conclusion, the described methodologies were successfully employed for the quantitative analysis of metformin hydrochloride in different pharmaceutical tablet products.

Systematic evaluation and meta-analysis of Flunarizine Hydrochloride combined with traditional Chinese medicine decoction in the treatment of migraine headaches.

OBJECTIVES: To systematically evaluate the efficacy and superiority of Flunarizine Hydrochloride when combined with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Decoctions in treating migraine headaches. METHOD: The authors conducted a comprehensive search for clinical Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) investigating the combination of Flunarizine Hydrochloride with Chinese herbal decoctions in treating migraines. The databases searched included CNKI, VIP, Wanfang, PubMed, WOI, Cochrane Library, and Embase, covering the period from January 1, 2019, to November 10, 2023. Two independent researchers meticulously screened, extracted, and assessed the relevant data, employing the Revman 5.3 software for meta-analysis. RESULTS: The meta-analysis revealed that, in comparison to Flunarizine Hydrochloride used in isolation, the combination with Chinese herbal decoctions markedly enhanced the effective rate (RR = 1.26, 95 % CI [1.18, 1.34], p < 0.0001). Moreover, significant improvements were observed in the TCM symptom score (MD = 4.97, 95 % CI [-6.74, -3.19], p < 0.00001). The observation group demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in endothelin levels compared to the control group (I2 = 85 %, MD = -13.66, 95 % CI [-17.87, -9.45], p = 0.0001). The observation group showed a significant reduction in NRS scores compared to the control group, indicating better outcomes (I2 = 95 %, MD = -2.11, 95 % CI [-3.09, -1.12], p < 0.0001). The observation group was superior to the control group in terms of the reduction in the number of episodes (I2 = 63 %, MD = -1.16, 95 % CI [-1.45, -0.87], p = 0.007). CONCLUSIONS: The confluence of Flunarizine Hydrochloride with traditional Chinese medicine decoctions in treating migraine patients demonstrated substantial clinical efficacy and improvement in TCM symptom score over the use of Flunarizine Hydrochloride alone.

Clinical Application of Different Doses of Hydromorphone Slow-Release Analgesia in Lumbar Fusion in Elderly Patients.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study is to examine the analgesic efficacy of varying doses of hydromorphone hydrochloride in conjunction with absorbable gelatin sponge for postoperative pain management in elderly individuals undergoing lumbar fusion surgery. Additionally, the study aims to assess the sustained release analgesic properties of this combination and to determine the optimal dosage of hydromorphone hydrochloride for effective pain relief. METHODS: A total of 113 elderly patients (aged ≥ 65 years old) meeting the criteria for 1-2-level posterior lumbar fusion surgery at Ganzhou City People's Hospital between July 2022 and August 2023 were randomly assigned to four groups: group A (0.2 mg hydromorphone hydrochloride 1 ml), group B (0.3 mg hydromorphone hydrochloride 1.5 ml), group C (0.4 mg hydromorphone hydrochloride 2 ml), and group D (0.9% normal saline 2 ml) for standard anesthesia induction and maintenance. Prior to suturing the incision, gelfoam was utilized to administer epidural analgesia to each group. Following the surgical procedure, an intravenous analgesia pump was utilized for pain management. The baseline infusion rate was set at 0.5 ml/h. Patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) was administered at a dose of 2 ml, with a lockout interval of 20 min, allowing the patient to self-administer as needed. Pain relief was assessed using the visual analogue scale (VAS) prior to surgery, as well as at 1 day and 3 days post-operation. The frequency of PCA requests within the initial 48-h postoperative period, the remedial analgesia with dezocine, postoperative adverse reactions, and duration of hospitalization were documented for analysis. RESULTS: The VAS scores of groups B and C were found to be significantly lower than those of group D 1 day after the operation. Additionally, VAS scores at 3 days post-operation, remedial rate of dezocine and PCA follow-up times at 48 h in groups A, B, and C were significantly lower compared to group D (P < 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference between group B and group C in VAS scores at 1 day and 3 days post-operation, as well as PCA follow-up times at 48 h post-operation (P < 0.001). Furthermore, the VAS scores of groups B and C were lower than those of group A at 1 day and 3 days post-operation (P < 0.05). The PCA frequency of group C was also lower than that of group A at 48 h post-operation (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The combination of hydromorphone hydrochloride and absorbable gelatin sponge epidural analgesia has been shown to enhance postoperative pain management. A dosage of 0.4 mg of hydromorphone hydrochloride may be considered an appropriate analgesic dose, as it can provide effective pain relief without eliciting adverse reactions. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ChiCTR.org.cn(ChiCTR2200064863). Registered on October 20, 2022.

Graphene oxide quantum dots-loaded sinomenine hydrochloride nanocomplexes for effective treatment of rheumatoid arthritis via inducing macrophage repolarization and arresting abnormal proliferation of fibroblast-like synoviocytes.

The characteristic features of the rheumatoid arthritis (RA) microenvironment are synovial inflammation and hyperplasia. Therefore, there is a growing interest in developing a suitable therapeutic strategy for RA that targets the synovial macrophages and fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs). In this study, we used graphene oxide quantum dots (GOQDs) for loading anti-arthritic sinomenine hydrochloride (SIN). By combining with hyaluronic acid (HA)-inserted hybrid membrane (RFM), we successfully constructed a new nanodrug system named HA@RFM@GP@SIN NPs for target therapy of inflammatory articular lesions. Mechanistic studies showed that this nanomedicine system was effective against RA by facilitating the transition of M1 to M2 macrophages and inhibiting the abnormal proliferation of FLSs in vitro. In vivo therapeutic potential investigation demonstrated its effects on macrophage polarization and synovial hyperplasia, ultimately preventing cartilage destruction and bone erosion in the preclinical models of adjuvant-induced arthritis and collagen-induced arthritis in rats. Metabolomics indicated that the anti-arthritic effects of HA@RFM@GP@SIN NPs were mainly associated with the regulation of steroid hormone biosynthesis, ovarian steroidogenesis, tryptophan metabolism, and tyrosine metabolism. More notably, transcriptomic analyses revealed that HA@RFM@GP@SIN NPs suppressed the cell cycle pathway while inducing the cell apoptosis pathway. Furthermore, protein validation revealed that HA@RFM@GP@SIN NPs disrupted the excessive growth of RAFLS by interfering with the PI3K/Akt/SGK/FoxO signaling cascade, resulting in a decline in cyclin B1 expression and the arrest of the G2 phase. Additionally, considering the favorable biocompatibility and biosafety, these multifunctional nanoparticles offer a promising therapeutic approach for patients with RA.

Development of fluorescence probe for spectrofluorimetric determination of viloxazine hydrochloride in pharmaceutical form and rat plasma; additional pharmacokinetic study.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurological condition frequently identified in early childhood and frequently co-occurs with other neuropsychological disorders, particularly autism. Viloxazine hydrochloride, a non-stimulant medication, has recently gained approval for treating attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. This paper describes the first spectrofluorimetric method for precisely measuring the content of viloxazine in pharmaceutical capsules and rat plasma. This method employed NBD-Cl (4-chloro-7-nitrobenzo-2-oxa-1,3-diazole) as a fluorescent probe, which transformed viloxazine in an alkaline environment into a remarkably sensitive fluorescent adduct. Upon excitation at 476 nm, this adduct becomes detectable at a wavelength of 536 nm. The method was validated using ICH criteria, revealing acceptable linearity across a concentration range of 200-2000 ng/ml and high sensitivity with LOD and LOQ values of 46.774 ng/ml and 141.741 ng/ml, respectively. This method was adeptly applied in a pharmacokinetic study of viloxazine in rat plasma following a single oral dose (10 mg/kg), yielding a mean peak plasma concentration (Cmax) of 1721 ng/ml, achieved within 1.5 h. Furthermore, the environmental impact of the technique was assessed using two greenness assessment tools, revealing a notable level of eco-friendliness and sustainability.

Recurring disease activity in relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis: The multicenter RDA-RMS study.

BACKGROUND: This study investigates the gap in understanding the dynamics of recurring disease activity (RDA) in RRMS patients after fingolimod (FGL) treatment discontinuation. The aim is to investigate RDA in RRMS patients after stopping FGL, aiming to improve management and comprehension of disease progression post-treatment. METHODS: In this multicenter, retrospective study, data from 172 of 944 RRMS patients aged 18-55, across nine centers in Turkey, who discontinued FGL treatment, were analyzed. The collected data included EDSS scores, annualized relapse rates (ARR), lymphocyte counts, and MRI findings, with follow-up assessments conducted at 6 months, 1 year, and up to 2 years. RESULTS: RDA was observed in 31.9 % of patients, with incidences of rebound and reactivation at 20.3 % and 11.6 %, respectively. Factors like younger age, longer treatment duration, lower lymphocyte counts, and higher lesion burden increased RDA risk. Notably, 52.9 % of pregnant patients experienced RDA (16.4 % of the overall RDA group), with rebound occurring in six and reactivation in three. Patients with RDA had longer medication-free intervals and increased ARR. Discontinuation reasons varied, with disease progression linked to a lower RDA risk. CONCLUSION: Findings highlight the necessity for personalized management and vigilant monitoring after FGL discontinuation in RRMS patients, offering critical insights into RDA risk factors, and the complex interplay between treatment cessation, pregnancy, and disease progression.

Green micellar factorial design optimized first derivative synchronous spectrofluorimetric method for tripelennamine and diphenhydramine determination in pharmaceutical gel.

A green micellar synchronous spectrofluorimetric method was developed and validated for simultaneous determination of tripelennamine hydrochloride and diphenhydramine in bulk and combined pharmaceutical formulation. Synchronous fluorescence of tripelennamine hydrochloride and diphenhydramine was determined using Δλ = 60 nm. The first derivative of synchronous fluorescence was computed to resolve overlap in the synchronous fluorescence spectra. Tripelennamine hydrochloride was quantified at 375 nm, whereas diphenhydramine was quantified at 293 nm; each is the zero-crossing point of the other. As diphenhydramine exhibited weak native fluorescence, micelle enhancement upon incorporation of sodium dodecyl sulfate was considered. Two-level full factorial design was carried out to optimize experimental parameters. Optimum conditions involved using SDS (2% w/v) along with Teorell and Stenhagen buffer (pH 9). The method was found to be linear over the range 0.2-4.5 and 0.2-5 µg/mL for tripelennamine and diphenhydramine, respectively, with limits of detection 0.211 and 0.159 µg/mL. The method was successfully applied for simultaneous determination of tripelennamine hydrochloride and diphenhydramine in laboratory-prepared gel containing all possible excipients with mean percent recoveries ±SD 100.59 ± 0.79 and 98.99 ± 0.98 for tripelennamine hydrochloride and diphenhydramine, respectively. The proposed method was proved to be eco-friendly using different greenness assessment tools.

Mechanisms of action of berberine hydrochloride in planktonic cells and biofilms of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

The increasing prevalence of extensively drug- and pan-drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a major concern for global public health. Therefore, it is crucial to develop novel antimicrobials that specifically target P. aeruginosa and its biofilms. In the present study, we determined that berberine hydrochloride inhibited the growth of planktonic bacteria as well as prevented the formation of biofilms. Moreover, we observed downregulation in the expression of pslA and pelA biofilm-related genes. Compared with existing antibiotics, berberine hydrochloride exhibits multiple modes of action against P. aeruginosa. Our findings suggest that berberine hydrochloride exerts its antimicrobial effects by damaging bacterial cell membranes, generating reactive oxygen species (ROS), and reducing intracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels. Furthermore, berberine hydrochloride showed minimal cytotoxicity and reduced susceptibility to drug resistance. In a mouse model of peritonitis, it significantly inhibited the growth of P. aeruginosa and exhibited a strong bacteriostatic action. In conclusion, berberine hydrochloride is a safe and effective antibacterial agent that inhibits the growth of P. aeruginosa.

Clinical effect of acupuncture at ghost points combined with fluoxetine hydrochloride on mild-to-moderate depression.

BACKGROUND: Depression is a common, chronic, and recurrent mood disorder that has become a worldwide health hazard. Fluoxetine hydrochloride, a common treatment method, can inhibit 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) recycling in the presynaptic membrane; however, the efficacy of a single drug is inadequate. At present, mild-to-moderate depression can be treated with acupuncture of ghost caves, but the clinical curative effect of combined therapy with fluoxetine hydrochloride has not been sufficiently reported. AIM: To evaluate the clinical effect of acupuncture at ghost points combined with fluoxetine hydrochloride in the treatment of mild-to-moderate depression. METHODS: This retrospective study included 160 patients with mild-to-moderate depression who were admitted to Shanghai Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, between January 2022 and June 2023. Patients were separated into a single-agent group (fluoxetine hydrochloride treatment, n = 80) and a coalition group (fluoxetine hydrochloride treatment combined with acupuncture at ghost points, n = 80). Pre-treatment symptoms were recorded, and the clinical curative effect and adverse reactions [Asberg Antidepressant Side Effects Scale (SERS)] were assessed. Depression before and after treatment [Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD)-24], neurotransmitter levels [5-HT, norepinephrine (NE), dopamine (DA)], oxidative stress indicators [superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA)], and sleep quality [Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI)] were compared. RESULTS: The total efficacy rate was 97.50% in the coalition group and 86.25% in the single-agent group (P < 0.05). After 2, 4, 6, and 8 wk of treatment, the HAMD, self-rating depression scale, and SERS scores of the coalition and single-agent groups decreased compared with pre-treatment, and the decrease was more significant in the coalition group (P < 0.05). After 8 wk of treatment, the levels of NE, DA, 5-HT, and SOD in the coalition and single-agent groups increased, while the levels of MDA decreased; the increases and decrease in the coalition group were more significant (P < 0.05). The PSQI scores of the coalition and single-agent groups decreased, and the decrease was more significant in the coalition group (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Acupuncture at ghost points combined with paroxetine tablets can safely improve depressive symptoms and sleep disorders, regulate neurotransmitter levels, and reduce stress responses in patients with mild-to-moderate depression.

Chitosan decorated oleosomes loaded propranolol hydrochloride hydrogel repurposed for Candida albicans-vaginal infection.

Aim: Our investigation aims to estimate the antifungal effect of propranolol hydrochloride (PNL). Methods: Oleosomes (OLs) were fabricated by thin-film hydration and evaluated for entrapment efficiency (EE%), particle size (PS), polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential (ZP), and amount of drug released after 6 h Q6h (%). Results: The optimal OL showed a rounded shape with optimum characteristics. The ex-vivo permeation and confocal laser scanning microscopy verified the prolonged release and well deposition of PNL-loaded OLs-gel. The in-silico assessment demonstrated the good stability of PNL with OLs' ingredients. In vivo evaluations for PNL-loaded OLs-gel showed a good antifungal impact against Candida albicans with good safety. Conclusion: This work highlights the potential of PNL-loaded OLs-gel as a potential treatment for candida vaginal infection.

[Box: see text].

Novel cross-linkable fluorescent probe with oriented antibody to enhance lateral immunoassay strip for the detection of acetamiprid.

Time-resolved fluorescent lateral immunoassay strip (TRFLIS) is a reliable and rapid method for detecting acetamiprid. However, its sensitivity is often affected by the structural patterns and stability of the fluorescent probe. Researchers have shown significant interests in using goat anti-mouse IgG (GaMIgG) which is indirectly bound to time-resolved fluorescent microsphere (TRFM) and antibody. This allowed for oriented modification of the antibody. However, the stability of fluorescent probe in this binding mode remained unexplored. Herein, 1-ethyl-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide hydrochloride was innovatively used as a cross-linking agent to enhance the binding of antibody to GaMIgG, which improved the stability of the fluorescent probe. Under optimal working conditions, this strategy exhibited a wide linear response range of 5-700 ng/mL. Its limit of detection (LOD) was 0.62 ng/mL, the visual LOD was 5 ng/mL, and the limit of quantification (LOQ) of 2.06 ng/mL. Additionally, under tomato matrix, leek matrix and Chinese cabbage matrix, the linear response ranges were 5-400, 5-300, and 5-700 ng/mL, with LODs of 0.16, 0.60, and 0.41 ng/mL, with LOQs of 0.53, 2.01 and 1.37 ng/mL, respectively. In conclusion, this strategy effectively reduced the dosage of acetamiprid antibody compared with TRFM directly linking acetamiprid antibody, and greatly increased the sensitivity of TRFLIS. Meanwhile, it demonstrated outstanding specificity and accuracy in acetamiprid detection and had been successfully applied to vegetable samples. This method enables rapid and accurate detection of large-volume samples by combining qualitative and quantitative methods. As such, it has great potential in the development of low-cost and high-performance immunochromatographic platforms.

Mitigating radiation-induced brain injury via NLRP3/NLRC4/Caspase-1 pyroptosis pathway: Efficacy of memantine and hydrogen-rich water.

Radiation-induced brain injury (RIBI) is a significant challenge in radiotherapy for head and neck tumors, impacting patients' quality of life. In exploring potential treatments, this study focuses on memantine hydrochloride and hydrogen-rich water, hypothesized to mitigate RIBI through inhibiting the NLRP3/NLRC4/Caspase-1 pathway. In a controlled study involving 40 Sprague-Dawley rats, divided into five groups including a control and various treatment groups, we assessed the effects of these treatments on RIBI. Post-irradiation, all irradiated groups displayed symptoms like weight loss and salivation, with notable variations among different treatment approaches. Particularly, hydrogen-rich water showed a promising reduction in these symptoms. Histopathological analysis indicated substantial hippocampal damage in the radiation-only group, while the groups receiving memantine and/or hydrogen-rich water exhibited significant mitigation of such damage. Molecular studies, revealed a decrease in oxidative stress markers and an attenuated inflammatory response in the treatment groups. Immunohistochemistry further confirmed these molecular changes, suggesting the effectiveness of these agents. Echoing recent scientific inquiries into the protective roles of specific compounds against radiation-induced damages, our study adds to the growing body of evidence on the potential of memantine and hydrogen-rich water as novel therapeutic strategies for RIBI.

Development of ropivacaine hydrochloride-loaded dissolving microneedles as a local anesthetic agent: A proof-of-concept.

Ropivacaine hydrochloride (RPL) is a local anesthetic agent that has been widely used for the treatment of pain during or after surgery. However, this drug is only available in parenteral dosage form and may contribute to the infiltration of RPL into the plasma, causing some undesirable side effects. Intradermal delivery of RPL using dissolving microneedles may become a promising strategy to deliver such drugs into the skin. This research aimed to develop RPL-loaded dissolving microneedles (DMN-RPLs) as a proof of the concept of intradermal delivery of a local anesthetic. The DMN-RPLs were fabricated using either centrifugation or air-pressurized chamber methods. Several polymers, such as poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP), poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), and sodium hyaluronate (SH), were utilized for manufacturing the DMN-RPLs. The prepared DMN-RPLs were assessed for their thermal properties, chemical bonds, mechanical strength, insertion ability, skin-dissolution study, and drug content. Furthermore, in-skin deposition and dermatokinetic studies were also performed. The results showed that F9 (30 % w/w PVP-4 % w/w SH) and F10 (30 % w/w PVP-5 % w/w PVA) containing 5 % w/w of RPL were the most promising formulations, as shown by their needle height reduction (<10 %) and insertion depth (∼400 µm). Both formulations were also able to deliver more than 60 % of the RPL contained in the DMNs into the epidermis, dermis, and receiver compartment. This study, for the first time, has provided a proof concept to deliver RPL as a local anesthetic using DMNs and the intradermal route, aiming to minimize pain and discomfort during administration and improve the patient's experience.