Organ-Specific Immune Setpoints Underlie Divergent Immune Profiles across Metastatic Sites in Breast Cancer

Immune composition within the tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a central role in the propensity of cancer cells to metastasize and respond to therapy. Previous studies have suggested that the metastatic TME is immune-suppressed. However, limited accessibility to multiple metastatic sites within patients has made assessing the immune TME difficult in the context of multiorgan metastases. We utilized a rapid postmortem tissue collection protocol to assess the immune composition of numerous sites of breast cancer metastasis and paired tumor-free tissues. Metastases had comparable immune cell densities and compositions to paired tumor-free tissues of the same organ type. In contrast, immune cell densities in both metastatic and tumor-free tissues differed significantly between organ types, with lung immune infiltration being consistently greater than that in the liver. These immune profiling results were consistent between flow cytometry and multiplex immunofluorescence-based spatial analysis. Furthermore, we found that granulocytes were the predominant tumor-infiltrating immune cells in lung and liver metastases, and these granulocytes comprised most PD-L1-expressing cells in many tissue sites. We also identified distinct potential mechanisms of immunosuppression in lung and liver metastases, with the lung having increased expression of PD-L1+ antigen-presenting cells and the liver having higher numbers of activated regulatory T cells and HLA-DRlow monocytes. Together, these results demonstrate that the immune contexture of metastases is dictated by organ type and that immunotherapy strategies may benefit from unique tailoring to the tissue-specific features of the immune TME.

Axin1 regulates tooth root development by inhibiting AKT1-mTORC1 activation and Shh translation in Hertwig's epithelial root sheath

Hertwig's epithelial root sheath (HERS) interacts with dental apical mesenchyme and guides development of the tooth root, which is integral to the function of the whole tooth. However, the key genes in HERS essential for root development are understudied. Here, we show that Axin1, a scaffold protein that negatively regulates canonical Wnt signaling, is strongly expressed in the HERS. Axin1 ablation in the HERS of mice leads to defective root development, but in a manner independent of canonical Wnt signaling. Further studies reveal that Axin1 in the HERS negatively regulates the AKT1-mTORC1 pathway through binding to AKT1, leading to inhibition of ribosomal biogenesis and mRNA translation. Sonic hedgehog (Shh) protein, a morphogen essential for root development, is over-synthesized by upregulated mTORC1 activity upon Axin1 inactivation. Importantly, either haploinsufficiency of the mTORC1 subunit Rptor or pharmacological inhibition of Shh signaling can rescue the root defects in Axin1 mutant mice. Collectively, our data suggest that, independently of canonical Wnt signaling, Axin1 controls ribosomal biogenesis and selective mRNA translation programs via AKT1-mTORC1 signaling during tooth root development.

Enhancing GFPT1 expression with glutamine protects chondrocytes in osteoarthritis

OBJECTIVE

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the leading joint disease without currently available disease-modified drugs. The current study aimed to identify potential drug targets that could decelerate the progression of OA.

METHODS

We employed Mendelian Randomization (MR) and colocalization analysis to identify therapeutic targets linked to 12 OA traits within 2645 targets. Bulk and single-cell RNA-seq analyses of cartilage samples were conducted to pinpoint GFPT1 and determine the specific cell types in which GFPT1 is expressed. Overexpression and knockdown experiments further explored the expression and potential OA-associated functions of GFPT1.

RESULTS

GFPT1 has been identified as a cross-OA therapeutic candidate gene by MR analysis. We observed a significant reduction in GFPT1 expression in OA cartilage compared to normal cartilage from public transcriptomic data of both humans and mice. In vitro experiments confirmed these findings at both mRNA and protein levels in OA chondrocytes. IL-1β stimulation leads to downregulation of GFPT1. We confirmed that supplementary glutamine can reverse the suppression of GFPT1 more effectively than glucosamine in the OA in vitro model. GFPT1 upregulation with glutamine, in turn, further increases the expression of COL2A1 and decreases the expression of MMP13.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrate that GFPT1 is downregulated in OA, and overexpressing GFPT1 can restore the anabolic metabolism of cartilage. Compared to glucosamine, enhancing GFPT1 expression with glutamine to influence the hexosamine biosynthetic pathway may offer a more effective therapeutic strategy for OA.

[Advances in the application of liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry for therapeutic drug monitoring]

Therapeutic drug monitoring is a good interpretation of personalized medicine, which helps to improve the safety and effectiveness of patient medication. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) has gradually been widely accepted by clinical laboratories due to its characteristics of specificity, sensitivity, and flexibility in method development. This article introduces the importance and analytical techniques for therapeutic drug monitoring, describes the application and development of liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry for therapeutic drug monitoring, new advances in the detection of different drug types and sample types, and challenges in automation, convenience, and standardization.

Tumor draining lymph nodes connected to cold triple-negative breast cancers are characterized by Th2-associated microenvironment

Tumor draining lymph nodes (TDLN) represent a key component of the tumor-immunity cycle. There are few studies describing how TDLNs impact lymphocyte infiltration into tumors. Here we directly compare tumor-free TDLNs draining "cold" and "hot" human triple negative breast cancers (TDLNCold and TDLNHot). Using machine-learning-based self-correlation analysis of immune gene expression, we find unbalanced intranodal regulations within TDLNCold. Two gene pairs (TBX21/GATA3-CXCR1) with opposite correlations suggest preferential priming of T helper 2 (Th2) cells by mature dendritic cells (DC) within TDLNCold. This is validated by multiplex immunofluorescent staining, identifying more mature-DC-Th2 spatial clusters within TDLNCold versus TDLNHot. Associated with this Th2 priming preference, more IL4 producing mast cells (MC) are found within sinus regions of TDLNCold. Downstream, Th2-associated fibrotic TME is found in paired cold tumors with increased Th2/T-helper-1-cell (Th1) ratio, upregulated fibrosis growth factors, and stromal enrichment of cancer associated fibroblasts. These findings are further confirmed in a validation cohort and public genomic data. Our results reveal a potential role of IL4+ MCs within TDLNs, associated with Th2 polarization and reduced immune infiltration into tumors.

High-Performance Aqueous Calcium Ion Batteries Enabled by Zn Metal Anodes with Stable Ion-Conducting Interphases

Aqueous calcium ion batteries, promising for energy storage, are still challenged by very limited anode choices. Although a Zn metal anode is popular in aqueous batteries, interface instability due to incessant corrosion and severe Zn dendrites hinders its development. Here, an interphase layer with densely packed nanocrystals of Ca3(CO3)2(OH)2·1.5H2O and ZnF2, and amorphous organic species, is demonstrated for a Zn metal anode with 1 M calcium trifluoromethyl sulfonate aqueous electrolyte. The hybrid interface fully avoids direct Zn-H2O contact, maintains fast ion conductivity, and effectively prevents corrosion and dendrite growth. Therefore, the symmetric cell stably lasts for 1600 h at 0.5 mA cm-2 and 2.5 mAh cm-2, far superior to 150 h for the control cell. Furthermore, the device maintains 80% capacity retention after 700 cycles at 1 A g-1, outperforming 13% retention after 200 cycles for the control device. This work indicates that interface and interphase engineering is also crucial for aqueous batteries.

Genome-wide analysis tracks the emergence of intraspecific polyploids in Phragmites australis

Polyploidization plays an important role in plant speciation and adaptation. To address the role of polyploidization in grass diversification, we studied Phragmites australis, an invasive species with intraspecific variation in chromosome numbers ranging from 2n = 36 to 144. We utilized a combined analysis of ploidy estimation, phylogeny, population genetics and model simulations to investigate the evolution of P. australis. Using restriction site-associated DNA sequencing (RAD-seq), we conducted a genome-wide analysis of 88 individuals sourced from diverse populations worldwide, revealing the presence of six distinct intraspecific lineages with extensive genetic admixture. Each lineage was characterized by a specific ploidy level, predominantly tetraploid or octoploid, indicative of multiple independent polyploidization events. The population size of each lineage has declined moderately in history while remaining large, except for the North American native and the US Land types, which experienced constant population size contraction throughout their history. Our investigation did not identify direct association between polyploidization events and grass invasions. Nonetheless, we observed octoploid and hexaploid lineages at contact zones in Romania, Hungary, and South Africa, suggestively due to genomic conflicts arising from allotetraploid parental lineages.

Sociodemographic factors impacting the spatial distribution of private dental clinics in major cities of Peoples Republic of China

OBJECTIVES

Investigate the geographical distribution of private dental practices in major Chinese cities and analyze the variables influencing this distribution.

METHODS

This study used Python to extract various types of Point of Interest (POI) data spanning from 2016 to 2022 from the AutoNavi map. A 1km*1km grid was constructed to establish the study sample. Additional spatial pattern data, including nighttime lighting, population, and air quality data, were integrated into this grid. Global Moran's I index was used to analyze the spatial autocorrelation. The spatial lag model was used to explore the influencing factors of private dental practice distribution.

RESULTS

This study reveals a specific clustering pattern for private dental practices in major Chinese cities. The primary influencing factors include nighttime lights, population density, and housing prices, suggesting that dental practices are typically concentrated in highly developed regions with dense populations and high housing costs. Additionally, we discovered that patterns vary across different metropolises, with the most pronounced clustering patterns and substantial inequalities found in the most developed areas.

CONCLUSIONS

This study establishes that factors such as regional development and population density positively correlate with private dental practice. Additionally, it reveals a strong mutual correlation in the clustering of dental practices, which does not show a substantial correlation with public resources. Finally, it suggests that the spatial heterogeneity pattern implies a rising necessity to tackle inequality issues within urban areas as economic development progresses.

Molecular Engineering of Poly(Ionic Liquid) for Direct and Continuous Production of Pure Formic Acid from Flue Gas

Electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) offers a promising approach to close the carbon cycle and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. However, traditional decoupled CO2RR processes involve energy-intensive CO2 capture, conversion, and product separation, which increases operational costs. Here, we report the development of a bismuth-poly(ionic liquid) (Bi-PIL) hybrid catalyst that exhibits exceptional electrocatalytic performance for CO2 conversion to formate. The Bi-PIL catalyst achieves over 90% Faradaic efficiency for formate over a wide potential range, even at low 15% v/v CO2 concentrations typical of industrial flue gas. The biphenyl in PIL backbone affords hydrophobicity while maintaining high ionic conductivity, effectively mitigating the flooding issues. The PIL layer plays a crucial role as a CO2 concentrator and co-catalyst that accelerates the CO2RR kinetics. Furthermore, we demonstrate the potential of Bi-PIL catalysts in a solid-state electrolyte (SSE) electrolyzer for the continuous and direct production of pure formic acid solutions from flue gas. Techno-economic analysis suggests that this integrated process can produce formic acid at a significantly reduced cost compared to the traditional decoupled approaches. This work presents a promising strategy to overcome the challenges associated with low-concentration CO2 utilization and streamline the production of valuable liquid fuels and chemicals from CO2.

[Beneficial effects of extravascular lung water index-guided volum management in patients with cardiogenic shock]

Objective: To evaluate the role of volume management guided by extravascular lung water index(EVLWI) in improving the clinical outcomes and cardiac function for patients with cardiogenic shock. Methods: This study was a single-center, prospective cohort study. Patients with cardiogenic shock admitted to the Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital from July 2022 to December 2023 were enrolled. Patients were matched 1∶1 by propensity score and divided into EVLWI group and control group. In the control group, the volume management strategy was determined by the attending physician based mainly on conventional factors, including clinical features, biochemical assessments, and certain blood pressure measurements. In EVLWI group, the volume management plan was formulated by integrating conventional factors with EVLWI derived from pulse index continuous cardiac output (PiCCO) monitoring. Baseline clinical data, in-hospital treatment, and hemodynamic data were collected. Major adverse cardiovascular events and cardiac function related parameters were compared at 30 d after treatment between the two groups. Baseline EVLWI levels were compared between the non-survivors and the survivors in the EVLWI group. The receiver operating characteristic curve was plotted to assess the accuracy of baseline EVLWI and central venous pressure in predicting all-cause mortality at 30 d after treatment in patients with cardiogenic shock, and subgroup analysis was performed according to ischemic/non-ischemic etiology and with/without use of inotropic drugs. Kaplan-Meier curve was used for survival analysis, with log-rank tests comparing all-cause mortality, cardiac death, and readmission rate for heart failure at 30 d after treatment. Results: A total of 200 patients with cardiogenic shock were enrolled, aged (71.35±12.82) years, 144(72%) males, EVLWI group and control group 100 patients each. Compared with the control group, EVLWI group had lower all-cause mortality (16%(16/100) vs. 42%(42/100), log-rank P<0.01), cardiac death (14%(14/100) vs. 34%(34/100), log-rank P<0.01), and readmission rate for heart failure (4%(4/100) vs. 12%(12/100), log-rank P=0.03) at 30 d after treatment. Subgroup analysis showed that EVLWI-guided volume management was associated with lower all-cause mortality at 30 d after treatment in patients with cardiogenic shock of ischemic or non-ischemic etiology and with or without inotropic drugs (all P<0.05). In EVLWI group, baseline EVLWI levels were higher in non-survivors than those in survivors [(15.99±6.47) ml/kg vs.(9.75±2.55) ml/kg, P<0.01]. The baseline EVLWI could predicting all-cause mortality at 30 d after treatment in patients with cardiogenic shock, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.84 (95%CI: 0.75-0.94, P<0.01), while the baseline central venous pressure had no predicting value (AUC=0.54, 95%CI: 0.40-0.69, P=0.60). The optimal cutoff value of EVLWI in pridicting all-cause mortality at 30 d after treatment in patients with cardiogenic shock was >10.3 ml/kg. With the optimization of hemodynamic parameters, left ventricular ejection fraction was improved in EVLWI group, and serum levels of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide, creatinine, alanine aminotransferase and lactic acid were decreased (all P<0.05). Conclusion: EVLWI-guided volume management exerts a beneficial effect on therapeutic decision-making and improves clinical outcomes and cardiac function in patients with cardiogenic shock.

Intraspecific variation in tomato: Impact on production quality and cadmium phytoremediation efficiency in intercropping systems with hyperaccumulating plant

Intercropping with hyperaccumulators can facilitate the safe utilization of cadmium-contaminated soil. However, the effectiveness of this approach is influenced by plant species and varieties, which necessitates research on optimal plant consortia. In this study, 8 tomato varieties (3 cherry tomatoes and 5 common large-fruit tomatoes) were intercropped with Sedum alfredii in a moderately Cd-contaminated vegetable field. The results showed that the Cd concentration in the fruits of common large-fruit tomato varieties under monoculture was 1.03-1.50 mg/kg, while that in the fruits of cherry tomato varieties was 0.67-0.71 mg/kg. After intercropping with S. alfredii, the fruit Cd concentrations of Hangza 501, Hangza 503, and Hangza 108 decreased by 16.42 %, 19.72 %, and 6.76 %, respectively, while those of the other varieties significantly increased, except for those of Hangza 8. In contrast, the shoot Cd concentration of cherry tomatoes was greater than that of large-fruit tomatoes under monoculture. Furthermore, a significant increase in the shoot Cd concentration was noted in the Hangza 501, Hangza 503 and Hangza 603 plants following intercropping. Additionally, intercropping with S. alfredii increased the concentration of soluble sugars in the fruits of Hangza 8, Hangza 501, Hangza 503 and Hangza 603 by 4.66 %, 17.91 %, 10.60 % and 17.88 %, respectively. Intercropping with tomatoes resulted in a decrease in both the biomass and Cd uptake of S. alfredii. Interestingly, the inhibitory effect on S. alfredii was less pronounced when intercropped with cherry tomatoes than when intercropped with large-fruit tomatoes. Among the intercropping treatments, S. alfredii exhibited the greatest total Cd accumulation (0.06 mg/plant) when intercropped with Hangza 503. In conclusion, the cherry tomato variety Hangza 503 was the most suitable for intercropping with S. alfredii and can be used safely for vegetable production and simultaneous phytoremediation of polluted soil. Our findings suggest that strategic selection of tomato varieties can optimize the effectiveness of "phytoextraction coupled with agro-safe production" technology for managing soil Cd concentrations.

[Analysis of influencing factors of recurrence after en bloc spondylectomy of spinal tumors]

Objectives: To investigate the survival and tumor recurrence after en bloc spondylectomy of spinal tumor and analyze the risk factors of postoperative tumor recurrence. Methods: This is a retrospective case series study. Data of 101 patients undergoing en bloc spondylectomy of spinal tumors in the Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, Peking University People's Hospital from December 2006 to June 2022 were analyzed. There were 58 males and 43 females, aged (38.2±15.8) years (range: 10 to 79 years) at the time of surgery; the follow-up time was(44.0±36.0) months (range: 12 to 171 months).Among them, there were 25 relapsed patients, with 7 females and 18 males; aged (34.8±16.3) years (range: 12 to 66 years) at the time of surgery. The types of tumors included 5 giant cell tumors of bone, 6 osteosarcomas, 1 chordoma, 5 chondrosarcomas, 1 undifferentiated sarcoma, 1 fibrosarcoma, 2 Ewing sarcomas, 3 metastases and 1 malignant giant cell tumor of bone. Survival analysis of overall and relapsed patients were performed using the Kaplan-Meier curves. A segmented regression model was used to fit the sequence of recurrence rate changes over time since admission and identify change points for further analysis on risk factors. Univariate and multivariate Logistic regression analysis were performed to assess risk factors associated with recurrence rate; results from multivariate regression analysis were presented using a forest plot. Results: The tumor recurrence rate after en bloc spondylectomy was 24.8% (25/101).The overall median recurrence-free survival after en bloc spondylectomy was 161 months (95%CI: 92 months to NA).The median recurrence-free survival of recurrent patients was 13 months (95%CI: 12 to 27 months).Regarding the classification based on tumor malignancy, and relapse-free survival of metastatic tumors was significantly shorter (P=0.007); and among the surgical margin groups, relapse-free survival of R0 group was significantly better than the R1 and R2 groups (P<0.01). According to the segmented regression model, the tumor recurrence rate for en bloc spondylectomy showed a significant downward trend over time, with relatively higher recurrence rates before 2009 and a relatively stable trend after 2014. The results of univariate analysis showed that surgical margin and time of admission were the influencing factors of patient recurrence. The results of multivariate analysis showed that the R1 resection(OR=13.453,95%CI:2.897 to 97.941,P=0.002) and R2 resection(OR=11.379,95%CI:2.658 to 79.429,P=0.003) were independent influencing factor affecting patient recurrence. Conclusions: The overall tumor recurrence rate after en bloc spondylectomy was high. The surgical margin of tumor resection is an independent risk factor affecting tumor recurrence. Specifically, R2 and R1 resections significantly increase the risk of tumor recurrence.

Measurements of Chemical Potentials in Pb-Pb Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02 TeV

This Letter presents the most precise measurement to date of the matter-antimatter imbalance at midrapidity in Pb-Pb collisions at a center-of-mass energy per nucleon pair sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV. Using the Statistical Hadronization framework, it is possible to obtain the value of the electric charge and baryon chemical potentials, μ_{Q}=-0.18±0.90  MeV and μ_{B}=0.71±0.45  MeV, with unprecedented precision. A centrality-differential study of the antiparticle-to-particle yield ratios of charged pions, protons, Ω baryons, and light (hyper)nuclei is performed. These results indicate that the system created in Pb-Pb collisions at the LHC is on average baryon-free and electrically neutral at midrapidity.

Chromosome-level genome assemblies reveal genome evolution of an invasive plant Phragmites australis

Biological invasions pose a significant threat to ecosystems, disrupting local biodiversity and ecosystem functions. The genomic underpinnings of invasiveness, however, are still largely unknown, making it difficult to predict and manage invasive species effectively. The common reed (Phragmites australis) is a dominant grass species in wetland ecosystems and has become particularly invasive when transferred from Europe to North America. Here, we present a high-quality gap-free, telomere-to-telomere genome assembly of Phragmites australis consisting of 24 pseudochromosomes and a B chromosome. Fully phased subgenomes demonstrated considerable subgenome dominance and revealed the divergence of diploid progenitors approximately 30.9 million years ago. Comparative genomics using chromosome-level scaffolds for three other lineages and a previously published draft genome assembly of an invasive lineage revealed that gene family expansions in the form of tandem duplications may have contributed to the invasiveness of the lineage. This study sheds light on the genome evolution of Arundinoideae grasses and suggests that genetic drivers, such as gene family expansions and tandem duplications, may underly the processes of biological invasion in plants. These findings provide a crucial step toward understanding and managing the genetic basis of invasiveness in plant species.

Site-Selective Growth of fcc-2H-fcc Copper on Unconventional Phase Metal Nanomaterials for Highly Efficient Tandem CO2 Electroreduction

Copper (Cu) nanomaterials are a unique kind of electrocatalysts for high-value multi-carbon production in carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR), which holds enormous potential in attaining carbon neutrality. However, phase engineering of Cu nanomaterials remains challenging, especially for the construction of unconventional phase Cu-based asymmetric heteronanostructures. Here the site-selective growth of Cu on unusual phase gold (Au) nanorods, obtaining three kinds of heterophase fcc-2H-fcc Au-Cu heteronanostructures is reported. Significantly, the resultant fcc-2H-fcc Au-Cu Janus nanostructures (JNSs) break the symmetric growth mode of Cu on Au. In electrocatalytic CO2RR, the fcc-2H-fcc Au-Cu JNSs exhibit excellent performance in both H-type and flow cells, with Faradaic efficiencies of 55.5% and 84.3% for ethylene and multi-carbon products, respectively. In situ characterizations and theoretical calculations reveal the co-exposure of 2H-Au and 2H-Cu domains in Au-Cu JNSs diversifies the CO* adsorption configurations and promotes the CO* spillover and subsequent C-C coupling toward ethylene generation with reduced energy barriers.

Observation of Medium-Induced Yield Enhancement and Acoplanarity Broadening of Low-p_{T} Jets from Measurements in pp and Central Pb-Pb Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02 TeV

The ALICE Collaboration reports the measurement of semi-inclusive distributions of charged-particle jets recoiling from a high transverse momentum (high p_{T}) hadron trigger in proton-proton and central Pb-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV. A data-driven statistical method is used to mitigate the large uncorrelated background in central Pb-Pb collisions. Recoil jet distributions are reported for jet resolution parameter R=0.2, 0.4, and 0.5 in the range 7 Collapse

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[Clinicopathological and molecular genetic features of neuromuscular choristoma-associated desmoid type fibromatosis]

Objective: To investigate the clinicopathological and genetic characteristics of neuromuscular choristoma-associated desmoid type fibromatosis (NMC-DF). Methods: The clinical morphological and immunohistochemical features of 7 NMC-DF cases diagnosed from January 2013 to January 2023 in Beijing Jishuitan Hospital were retrospectively analyzed. A series of neuromuscular choristoma and neuromuscular choristoma-associated desmoid type fibromatosis were evaluated for CTNNB1 mutations, and hotspot mutations for CTNNB1 were tested in 4 NMC-DF cases using Sanger sequencing. Results: The tumors were collected from 3 females and 4 males, aged 1 to 22 years (mean 7.1 years), involving the sciatic nerve (n=4), brachial plexus (n=2) or multiple nerves (n=1). The course of the disease spanned from 3 months to 10 years. Two cases were recurrent tumors. All the 7 NMC cases showed endoneurial intercalation of mature skeletal muscle fibers among the peripheral nerve fascicles, and the histologic features of the NMC-DF were strikingly similar to the conventional desmoid-type fibromatosis. By immunohistochemistry, all NMC and NMC-DF cases showed aberrant nuclear staining of β-catenin (7/7), the muscle cells in NMC were intensely immunoreactive for desmin, and the admixed nerve fibers were highlighted by NF and S-100 (7/7). Four NMC and NMC-DF had CTNNB1 mutations, 3 c.121A>G (p.T41A) and 1 c.134C>T (p.S45F). Follow-up of the 7 cases, ranging from 22 to 78 months, showed tumor recurrence in 2 patients at 3 and 8 months respectively after the first surgical resection, of which 1 patient underwent above-knee amputation. No recurrence occurred in other cases with tumor excision and neurological reconstruction surgery. There was no metastasis occurred in the 7 cases. Conclusions: NMC is a rare congenital lesion with differentiated mature skeletal muscle tissue found in peripheral nerve fascicles, and approximately 80% of patients with NMC develop a soft tissue fibromatosis. CTNNB1 mutation in the Wnt signaling pathway may be involved in the pathogenesis of NMC and NMC-DF, and S45F mutations seems to have a higher risk of disease progression.

Effect of ursodeoxycholic acid on preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with liver transplantation: a multicenter retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Immunosuppressed recipients of liver transplantation (LT) are more likely to develop coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and may have an increased risk of developing worse outcomes.

AIM

To assess the effect of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) on preventing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in LT recipients.

DESIGN

Adult patients (aged ≥ 18 years) who underwent LT between 1 January 2015 and 31 December 2022 were included and categorized into two groups according to their use of UDCA.

METHODS

The prevalence and severity of COVID-19 among transplantation patients between the UDCA and non-UDCA groups were estimated and compared.

RESULTS

Among the 897 LT patients who met the inclusion criteria, infection rate of SARS-CoV-2 was 78.4%, and the rate of severe illness was 5.1% from January 2022 to January 2023 in China. In the multivariate analysis, only UDCA treatment (P = 0.006) was found to be a protective factor against SARS-CoV-2 infection. After propensity score matching, the SARS-CoV-2 infection rate in the UDCA group was lower than that in the non-UDCA group (74.1% vs. 84.6%, P = 0.002). This rate was further reduced to 62.1% (P = 0.002) when the oral administration dose was >15 mg/kg/day. There was no difference in the rates of severe COVID-19 illness, ICU admission, or ventilation rate or length of hospital stay with or without UDCA treatment (all P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of UDCA in LT patients significantly reduced the SARS-CoV-2 infection rate and showed a dose-dependent protective effect.

Constructing Ionic Interfaces for Stable Electrochemical CO2 Reduction

The electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) has emerged as a promising approach for sustainable carbon cycling and valuable chemical production. Various methods and strategies have been explored to boost CO2RR performance. One of the most promising strategies includes the construction of stable ionic interfaces on metallic or molecular catalysts using organic or inorganic cations, which has demonstrated a significant improvement in catalytic performance. The stable ionic interface is instrumental in adjusting adsorption behavior, influencing reactive intermediates, facilitating mass transportation, and suppressing the hydrogen evolution reaction, particularly under acidic conditions. In this Perspective, we provide an overview of the recent advancements in building ionic interfaces in the electrocatalytic process and discuss the application of this strategy to improve the CO2RR performance of metallic and molecular catalysts. We aim to convey the future trends and opportunities in creating ionic interfaces to further enhance carbon utilization efficiency and the productivity of CO2RR products. The emphasis of this Perspective lies in the pivotal role of ionic interfaces in catalysis, providing a valuable reference for future research in this critical field.

A xenogeneic extracellular matrix-based 3D printing scaffold modified by ceria nanoparticles for craniomaxillofacial hard tissue regeneration via osteo-immunomodulation

Hard tissue engineering scaffolds especially 3D printed scaffolds were considered an excellent strategy for craniomaxillofacial hard tissue regeneration, involving crania and facial bones and teeth. Porcine treated dentin matrix (pTDM) as xenogeneic extracellular matrix has the potential to promote the stem cell differentiation and mineralization as it contains plenty of bioactive factors similar with human-derived dentin tissue. However, its application might be impeded by the foreign body response induced by the damage-associated molecular patterns of pTDM, which would cause strong inflammation and hinder the regeneration. Ceria nanoparticles (CNPs) show a great promise at protecting tissue from oxidative stress and influence the macrophages polarization. Using 3D-bioprinting technology, we fabricated a xenogeneic hard tissue scaffold based on pTDM xenogeneic TDM-polycaprolactone (xTDM/PCL) and we modified the scaffolds by CNPs (xTDM/PCL/CNPs). Through series ofin vitroverification, we found xTDM/PCL/CNPs scaffolds held promise at up-regulating the expression of osteogenesis and odontogenesis related genes including collagen type 1, Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), bone morphogenetic protein-2, osteoprotegerin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and DMP1 and inducing macrophages to polarize to M2 phenotype. Regeneration of bone tissues was further evaluated in rats by conducting the models of mandibular and skull bone defects. Thein vivoevaluation showed that xTDM/PCL/CNPs scaffolds could promote the bone tissue regeneration by up-regulating the expression of osteogenic genes involving ALP, RUNX2 and bone sialoprotein 2 and macrophage polarization into M2. Regeneration of teeth evaluated on beagles demonstrated that xTDM/PCL/CNPs scaffolds expedited the calcification inside the scaffolds and helped form periodontal ligament-like tissues surrounding the scaffolds.

Construction of dental pulp decellularized matrix by cyclic lavation combined with mechanical stirring and its proteomic analysis

The decellularized matrix has a great potential for tissue remodeling and regeneration; however, decellularization could induce host immune rejection due to incomplete cell removal or detergent residues, thereby posing significant challenges for its clinical application. Therefore, the selection of an appropriate detergent concentration, further optimization of tissue decellularization technique, increased of biosafety in decellularized tissues, and reduction of tissue damage during the decellularization procedures are pivotal issues that need to be investigated. In this study, we tested several conditions and determined that 0.1% Sodium dodecyl sulfate and three decellularization cycles were the optimal conditions for decellularization of pulp tissue. Decellularization efficiency was calculated and the preparation protocol for dental pulp decellularization matrix (DPDM) was further optimized. To characterize the optimized DPDM, the microstructure, odontogenesis-related protein and fiber content were evaluated. Our results showed that the properties of optimized DPDM were superior to those of the non-optimized matrix. We also performed the 4D-Label-free quantitative proteomic analysis of DPDM and demonstrated the preservation of proteins from the natural pulp. This study provides a optimized protocol for the potential application of DPDM in pulp regeneration.

Emergence of Long-Range Angular Correlations in Low-Multiplicity Proton-Proton Collisions

This Letter presents the measurement of near-side associated per-trigger yields, denoted ridge yields, from the analysis of angular correlations of charged hadrons in proton-proton collisions at sqrt[s]=13  TeV. Long-range ridge yields are extracted for pairs of charged particles with a pseudorapidity difference of 1.4<|Δη|<1.8 and a transverse momentum of 1 Collapse

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First Measurement of the |t| Dependence of Incoherent J/ψ Photonuclear Production

The first measurement of the cross section for incoherent photonuclear production of J/ψ vector mesons as a function of the Mandelstam |t| variable is presented. The measurement was carried out with the ALICE detector at midrapidity, |y|<0.8, using ultraperipheral collisions of Pb nuclei at a center-of-mass energy per nucleon pair of sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV. This rapidity interval corresponds to a Bjorken-x range (0.3-1.4)×10^{-3}. Cross sections are given in five |t| intervals in the range 0.04<|t|<1  GeV^{2} and compared to the predictions by different models. Models that ignore quantum fluctuations of the gluon density in the colliding hadron predict a |t| dependence of the cross section much steeper than in data. The inclusion of such fluctuations in the same models provides a better description of the data.

Laser-Induced Graphene-Based Sensors in Health Monitoring: Progress, Sensing Mechanisms, and Applications

The rising global population and improved living standards have led to an alarming increase in non-communicable diseases, notably cardiovascular and chronic respiratory diseases, posing a severe threat to human health. Wearable sensing devices, utilizing micro-sensing technology for real-time monitoring, have emerged as promising tools for disease prevention. Among various sensing platforms, graphene-based sensors have shown exceptional performance in the field of micro-sensing. Laser-induced graphene (LIG) technology, a cost-effective and facile method for graphene preparation, has gained particular attention. By converting polymer films directly into patterned graphene materials at ambient temperature and pressure, LIG offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional methods, opening up innovative possibilities for electronic device fabrication. Integrating LIG-based sensors into health monitoring systems holds the potential to revolutionize health management. To commemorate the tenth anniversary of the discovery of LIG, this work provides a comprehensive overview of LIG's evolution and the progress of LIG-based sensors. Delving into the diverse sensing mechanisms of LIG-based sensors, recent research advances in the domain of health monitoring are explored. Furthermore, the opportunities and challenges associated with LIG-based sensors in health monitoring are briefly discussed.

Backbone Engineering of Polymeric Catalysts for High-Performance CO2 Reduction in Bipolar Membrane Zero-Gap Electrolyzer

Bipolar membranes (BPMs) have emerged as a promising solution for mitigating CO2 losses, salt precipitation and high maintenance costs associated with the commonly used anion-exchange membrane electrode assembly for CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR). However, the industrial implementation of BPM-based zero-gap electrolyzer is hampered by the poor CO2RR performance, largely attributed to the local acidic environment. Here, we report a backbone engineering strategy to improve the CO2RR performance of molecular catalysts in BPM-based zero-gap electrolyzers by covalently grafting cobalt tetraaminophthalocyanine onto a positively charged polyfluorene backbone (PF-CoTAPc). PF-CoTAPc shows a high acid tolerance in BPM electrode assembly (BPMEA), achieving a high FE of 82.6 % for CO at 100 mA/cm2 and a high CO2 utilization efficiency of 87.8 %. Notably, the CO2RR selectivity, carbon utilization efficiency and long-term stability of PF-CoTAPc in BPMEA outperform reported BPM systems. We attribute the enhancement to the stable cationic shield in the double layer and suppression of proton migration, ultimately inhibiting the undesired hydrogen evolution and improving the CO2RR selectivity. Techno-economic analysis shows the least energy consumption (957 kJ/mol) for the PF-CoTAPc catalyst in BPMEA. Our findings provide a viable strategy for designing efficient CO2RR catalysts in acidic environments.