Annals of medicine
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With the decline of global fertility, drug therapeutic of ectopic pregnancy is of great significance. Lithospermum erythrorhizon is using for embryo killing as herbal medicine. Shikonin is the critical nucleus of Lithospermum erythrorhizon; however, the mechanism is still unclear. The study aimed to explore the mechanism of shikonin against ectopic pregnancy. ⋯ Our results suggest that shikonin activates CTSB to induce NLRP3-dependent pyroptosis in HTR-8/SVneo cells. This study has important clinical implications for the treatment of ectopic pregnancy.
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Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can precipitate a deterioration of an individual's physical performance and overall health. Evidence suggests that, along with pulmonary functions, several other factors are related to the significant impairment of walking performance in individuals with COPD. This study compared the depressive symptoms, health status, upper and lower extremity functions, and peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) in a group of individuals with COPD based on walking performance using a cutoff distance of 350 m in the six-minute walking test (6MWT). The study also investigated the associations between these factors and walking performance. ⋯ This study shed light on the association of depressive symptoms, health status, extremity function, and VO2peak with walking performance, providing valuable insights that may impact the management and care of individuals with COPD.
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In this study, the chemical properties of Ganoderma applanatum polysaccharides (GAP) were systematically investigated, followed by a comprehensive analysis of their antitumor and antioxidant capabilities. ⋯ These results substantiate the potential of GAPs as viable and effective antitumor agents, additionally suggesting their utility as functional foods endowed with antioxidant attributes.
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Haemodialysis (HD) patients are predisposed to physical ailments, and their occurrence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) could potentially lead to a more unfavourable prognosis. However, the impact of SARS-CoV-2 (Omicron variant) infection on the prognosis of HD patients remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the impact of Omicron variant infection on the prognosis of HD patients. ⋯ Omicron variant infection was associated with increased mortality risk in HD patients, and Omicron infection worsen the prognosis of HD patients. Enhancing immune protection against SARS-CoV-2 is crucial for HD patients during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
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Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), comprising ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, have a profound impact on people's lives. This study aims to investigate the perceived impact of IBD on sexual life and family planning to enhance understanding of the interplay between IBD, sexuality, intimacy and family planning to foster a better quality of life for those living with the condition. ⋯ This is the first study concerning the sexuality and family planning of people with IBD in the Czech Republic. It highlights the need for information and open communication from professionals.