Improvement of Post-Surgery Constipation in Patients with Fractures by Lactobacillus rhamnosus JYLR-127: A Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

The high prevalence of constipation after fracture surgery brings intolerable discomfort to patients on the one hand, and affects post-surgery nutrient absorption on the other hand, resulting in poor prognosis. Given the acknowledged probiotic properties of Lactobacillus rhamnosus, 100 fracture patients with post-surgery constipation were centrally enrolled and administered orally with L. rhamnosus JYLR-127 to assess the efficacy of probiotic-adjuvant therapy in alleviating post-fracture constipation symptoms. The results showed that L. rhamnosus JYLR-127 improved fecal properties, promoted gastrointestinal recovery, and relieved constipation symptoms, which were mainly achieved by elevating Firmicutes (p < 0.01) and descending Bacteroidetes (p < 0.001), hence remodeling the disrupted intestinal microecology. In addition, blood routine presented a decrease in C-reactive protein levels (p < 0.05) and an increase in platelet counts (p < 0.05) after probiotic supplementation, prompting the feasibility of L. rhamnosus JYLR-127 in anti-inflammation, anti-infection and hemorrhagic tendency prevention after fracture surgery. Our study to apply probiotics in ameliorating constipation after fracture surgery is expected to bless the bothered patients, and provide broader application scenarios for L. rhamnosus preparations.

Electroacupuncture blocked motor dysfunction and gut barrier damage by modulating intestinal NLRP3 inflammasome in MPTP-induced Parkinson's disease mice

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder commonly accompanied by gut dysfunction. EA has shown anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. Here, we aim to explore whether EA can treat Parkinson's disease by restoring the intestinal barrier and modulating NLRP3 inflammasome. We applied 1-Methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) to establish a PD mouse model and EA at the GV16, LR3, and ST36 for 12 consecutive days. The open-field test results indicated that EA alleviated depression and behavioral defects, upregulated the expressions of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and blocked the accumulation of α-synuclein (α-syn) in the midbrain. Moreover, EA blocked the damage to intestinal tissues of PD mice, indicative of suppressed NLRP3 inflammasome activation and increased gut barrier integrity. Notably, the antibiotic-treated mouse experiment validated that the gut microbiota was critical in alleviating PD dyskinesia and intestinal inflammation by EA. In conclusion, this study suggested that EA exhibited a protective effect against MPTP-induced PD by alleviating behavioral defects, reversing the block of motor dysfunction, and improving the gut barrier by modulating intestinal NLRP3 inflammasome. Above all, this study could provide novel insights into the pathogenesis and therapy of PD.

A bibliometric analysis of research on organizational resilience

Organizational resilience is a key concept in the study of sustainable corporate growth and indicates an organization's capacity to recover from adversity. It plays a crucial role in responding to uncertain crises. In recent years, academic interest in organizational resilience has increasingly gained prominence. This research uses CiteSpace and VOSviewer to provide a thorough visual analysis of pertinent international literature based on 342 pieces of closely linked literature about organizational resilience. The findings suggest that organizational resilience research is currently experiencing a development phase. Within this field, there is a substantial number of scholars involved, with the most prolific among them including Aleksic Aleksandar, Prayag Girish, and Griffiths Andrew. The networks of collaboration among these authors, nevertheless, are very scattered. Co-citation network research reveals the academics with the biggest sway in the field. Organizational resilience, conservation of resources theory, crisis management, corporate social responsibility, and emergency management are identified as research hotspots within the keyword co-citation network. Furthermore, to determine which countries and regions are the most influential, this study has created a cooperative network among them. China, the United States, and England are the top three nations with articles published. Not only are the highly cited journals respected in the management sector, but they also showcase noteworthy research accomplishments within the field. The purpose of this study is to investigate potential avenues for future research and offer helpful sources for choosing research subjects and developing theoretical frameworks in this area. The analysis is highly valuable as a reference for research on organizational resilience in different settings in the future.

Compositional, Structural, and Biomechanical Properties of Three Different Soft Tissue-Hard Tissue Insertions: A Comparative Review

Connective tissue attaches to bone across an insertion with spatial gradients in components, microstructure, and biomechanics. Due to regional stress concentrations between two mechanically dissimilar materials, the insertion is vulnerable to mechanical damage during joint movements and difficult to repair completely, which remains a significant clinical challenge. Despite interface stress concentrations, the native insertion physiologically functions as the effective load-transfer device between soft tissue and bone. This review summarizes tendon, ligament, and meniscus insertions cross-sectionally, which is novel in this field. Herein, the similarities and differences between the three kinds of insertions in terms of components, microstructure, and biomechanics are compared in great detail. This review begins with describing the basic components existing in the four zones (original soft tissue, uncalcified fibrocartilage, calcified fibrocartilage, and bone) of each kind of insertion, respectively. It then discusses the microstructure constructed from collagen, glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), minerals and others, which provides key support for the biomechanical properties and affects its physiological functions. Finally, the review continues by describing variations in mechanical properties at the millimeter, micrometer, and nanometer scale, which minimize stress concentrations and control stretch at the insertion. In summary, investigating the contrasts between the three has enlightening significance for future directions of repair strategies of insertion diseases and for bioinspired approaches to effective soft-hard interfaces and other tough and robust materials in medicine and engineering.

Association of maternal mineral status with the risk of preterm birth: a retrospective cohort study

Background

There has been a gradual increase in the proportion of preterm birth in China during the past several decades. Maternal malnutrition is a significant determinant for preterm birth. Nevertheless, comprehensive studies investigating serum mineral levels during pregnancy associated with preterm birth remain scarce. This study aims to assess the associations between maternal serum mineral levels and the risk of preterm birth.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study of 18,048 pregnant women used data from a tertiary hospital in China from January 2016 to December 2022. Demographic data and serum mineral concentrations in the second and third trimesters of mothers were collected from the hospital information system. Analysis was performed using restricted cubic splines and logistic regression models.

Results

The proportion of preterm birth in this study was 6.01%. Phosphorus [P for overall = 0.005; P for nonlinear = 0.490; OR (95%CI) = 1.11 (1.04, 1.18)] and chlorine [P for overall = 0.002; P for nonlinear = 0.058; OR (95%CI) = 1.11 (1.03, 1.19)] showed a significant positive correlation with preterm birth in a linear fashion. Furthermore, serum levels of potassium (P for nonlinear <0.001), sodium (P for nonlinear = 0.004), and magnesium (P for nonlinear <0.001) exhibited non-linear relationships with the risk of preterm birth.

Conclusion

Serum levels of some minerals during pregnancy were associated with the risk of preterm birth among pregnant women. In addition to commonly recognized micronutrients such as folic acid, iron, and vitamin D, healthcare providers should also pay attention to the levels of these minerals during pregnancy.

[Genetic analysis of a Chinese pedigree affected with Brachydactyly type B1 due to a novel variant of ROR2 gene]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the genetic basis for a Chinese pedigree affected with Brachydactyly type B1 (BDB1) through whole exome sequencing (WES).

METHODS

A BDB1 pedigree admitted to the Affiliated Women and Children's Hospital of Qingdao University on June 25, 2021 was selected as the study subject. Clinical data of the pedigree was collected with informed consent. WES was carried out for the proband, and candidate variant was verified by Sanger sequencing and bioinformatic analysis.

RESULTS

WES and Sanger sequencing had identified a heterozygous c.2257delT variant in the ROR2 gene of the proband and his affected father, which has conformed to an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance. Based on the guidelines from the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG), the variant was classified to be likely pathogenic (PVS1_Strong+PM2 Supporting+PP4).

CONCLUSION

The c.2257delT variant of the ROR2 gene was unreported previously and is strongly correlated with the BDB1-like phenotype in this pedigree. Above finding has enriched the mutational spectrum of the ROR2 gene and facilitated the diagnosis and genetic counseling for this pedigree.

Effects of Social Support on Medication Adherence Among Patients with Schizophrenia: Serial Multiple Mediation Model

Purpose

This study aims to explore the serial mediating effect of stigma and depression on the association between social support and medication adherence.

Patients and Methods

A cross-sectional survey was undertaken in the Changning District of Shanghai using a five-part questionnaire from August to December 2023. A convenient sampling method was employed, and 35 patients with schizophrenia were invited from each of the 9 streets in Changning District to participate in the survey, resulting in a total of 305 valid questionnaires collected. The questionnaire measured social support, stigma, depression, medication adherence, and demographic characteristics. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, independent samples t-tests, ANOVA, Pearson correlation analysis, and the bootstrap method.

Results

There was a direct and significantly positive association between social support and medication adherence (β = 0.69, p < 0.001). Moreover, increased levels of stigma (β = - 0.45, p = 0.013) and depression (β = - 0.09, p = 0.017) were both associated with a decline in medication adherence. Bootstrapping analysis revealed that the association between social support and medication adherence operated indirectly through stigma (β = 0.11, 95% CI: 0.03, 0.18). Additionally, social support was indirectly associated with medication adherence through depression (β = 0.15, 95% CI: 0.04, 0.30). Further analysis indicated that social support had an indirect association with medication adherence through both stigma and depression (β = 0.04, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.07).

Conclusion

Stigma and depression serially mediate the association between social support and medication adherence among patients with schizophrenia. This serial multiple mediation model underscores the importance of integrating social support interventions with psychological interventions aimed at reducing stigma and depression, thereby effectively enhancing medication adherence in patients with schizophrenia.

Effect of water-soluble polymers on the transport of functional group-modified polystyrene nanoplastics in goethite-coated saturated porous media

The research on the impact of water-soluble polymers (WSPs) on the migration and fate of plastic particles is extremely limited. This article explored the effects of polyacrylic acid (PAA, a common WSP) and physicochemical factors on the transport of polystyrene nanoparticles (PSNPs-NH2/COOH) with different functional groups in QS (quartz sand) and FOS (goethite-modified quartz sand, simulates mineral colloids). Research has shown that PAA can selectively adsorb onto the surface of PSNPs-NH2, forming ecological corona heterogeneous aggregates. This process increased the spatial hindrance and elastic repulsion, resulting in the recovery of PSNPs-NH2 always exceeding that of PSNPs-COOH. Overall, PAA can hinder the migration of PSNPs in QS but can promote their migration in FOS. When multivalent cations coexist with PAA, the transport of PSNPs in the media is primarily affected by cation bridging and CH-cation-π interaction. The presence of oxyanions and PAA prevents PSNPs from following the Hofmeister rule and promotes their migration (PO43-: 82.34 ± 0.16% to 94.63 ± 2.82%>SO42-: 81.38 ± 2.73% to 91.15 ± 0.93%>NO3-: 55.85 ± 0.70%-87.16 ± 3.80%). The findings of this study contribute significantly to a better understanding of the migration of WSPs and group-modified NPs in complex saturated porous media.

Risk of meningomyelocele mediated by the common 22q11.2 deletion

Meningomyelocele is one of the most severe forms of neural tube defects (NTDs) and the most frequent structural birth defect of the central nervous system. We assembled the Spina Bifida Sequencing Consortium to identify causes. Exome and genome sequencing of 715 parent-offspring trios identified six patients with chromosomal 22q11.2 deletions, suggesting a 23-fold increased risk compared with the general population. Furthermore, analysis of a separate 22q11.2 deletion cohort suggested a 12- to 15-fold increased NTD risk of meningomyelocele. The loss of Crkl, one of several neural tube-expressed genes within the minimal deletion interval, was sufficient to replicate NTDs in mice, where both penetrance and expressivity were exacerbated by maternal folate deficiency. Thus, the common 22q11.2 deletion confers substantial meningomyelocele risk, which is partially alleviated by folate supplementation.

Contribution of individual and cumulative social determinants of health underlying gender disparities in periodontitis in a representative US population: A cross-sectional NHANES study

AIM

To examine the impact of both individual and cumulative social determinants of health (SDoH) on the likelihood of developing periodontitis, while also exploring any gender disparities in this relationship.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data of self-reported SDoH domains and sub-items based on Healthy People 2030 were obtained from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys between 1999 and 2014. Logistic regression models, weighted by survey responses, were used to examine the relationship between SDoH (including eight sub-items and the cumulative number of unfavourable SDoH) and periodontitis. The results were further analysed by gender.

RESULTS

A total of 18,075 participants (8867 males and 9208 females) were included in the main analysis, of which 5814 (32.2%) had periodontitis. The study found that certain unfavourable SDoH were individually associated with higher odds of periodontitis, and the cumulative number of unfavourable SDoH was positively linked to the odds of developing periodontitis. Furthermore, males exposed to more unfavourable SDoH appeared to be more susceptible to developing periodontitis than females.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggest that unfavourable SDoH, especially when they accumulate, are associated with an increased odds of periodontitis and contribute to gender disparities within the U.S.

POPULATION

TRIB3-TRIM8 complex drives NAFLD progression by regulating HNF4α stability

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress of hepatocytes plays a causative role in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Reduced expression of hepatic nuclear factor 4α (HNF4α) is a critical event in the pathogenesis of NAFLD and other liver diseases. Whether ER stress regulates HNF4α expression remains unknown. The aim of this study was to delineate the machinery of HNF4α protein degradation and explore a therapeutic strategy based on protecting HNF4α stability during NAFLD progression.

METHODS

Correlation of HNF4α and tribbles homologue 3 (TRIB3), an ER stress sensor, was evaluated in human and mouse NAFLD tissues. RNA-sequencing, mass spectrometry analysis, co-immunoprecipitation, in vivo and in vitro ubiquitination assays were used to elucidate the mechanisms of TRIB3-mediated HNF4α degradation. Molecular docking and co-immunoprecipitation analyses were performed to identify a cell-penetrating peptide that ablates the TRIB3-HNF4α interaction.

RESULTS

TRIB3 directly interacts with HNF4α and mediates ER stress-induced HNF4α degradation. TRIB3 recruits tripartite motif containing 8 (TRIM8) to form an E3 ligase complex that catalyzes K48-linked polyubiquitination of HNF4α on lysine 470. Abrogating the degradation of HNF4α attenuated the effect of TRIB3 on a diet-induced NAFLD model. Moreover, the TRIB3 gain-of-function variant p.Q84R is associated with NAFLD progression in patients, and induces lower HNF4α levels and more severe hepatic steatosis in mice. Importantly, disrupting the TRIB3-HNF4α interaction using a cell-penetrating peptide restores HNF4α levels and ameliorates NAFLD progression in mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings unravel the machinery of HNF4α protein degradation and indicate that targeting TRIB3-TRIM8 E3 complex-mediated HNF4α polyubiquitination may be an ideal strategy for NAFLD therapy.

IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS

Reduced expression of hepatic nuclear factor 4α (HNF4α) is a critical event in the pathogenesis of NAFLD and other liver diseases. However, the mechanism of HNF4α protein degradation remains unknown. Herein, we reveal that TRIB3-TRIM8 E3 ligase complex is responsible for HNF4α degradation during NAFLD. Inhibiting the TRIB3-HNF4α interaction effectively stabilized HNF4α protein levels and transcription factor activity in the liver and ameliorated TRIB3-mediated NAFLD progression. Our findings demonstrate that disturbing the TRIM8-TRIB3-HNF4α interaction may provide a novel approach to treat NAFLD and even other liver diseases by stabilizing the HNF4α protein.

Structural and functional insights into the epigenetic regulator MRG15

MORF4-related gene on chromosome 15 (MRG15), a chromatin remodeller, is evolutionally conserved and ubiquitously expressed in mammalian tissues and cells. MRG15 plays vital regulatory roles in DNA damage repair, cell proliferation and division, cellular senescence and apoptosis by regulating both gene activation and gene repression via associations with specific histone acetyltransferase and histone deacetylase complexes. Recently, MRG15 has also been shown to rhythmically regulate hepatic lipid metabolism and suppress carcinoma progression. The unique N-terminal chromodomain and C-terminal MRG domain in MRG15 synergistically regulate its interaction with different cofactors, affecting its functions in various cell types. Thus, how MRG15 elaborately regulates target gene expression and performs diverse functions in different cellular contexts is worth investigating. In this review, we provide an in-depth discussion of how MRG15 controls multiple physiological and pathological processes.

Negative life events and sleep disturbance among adolescents: Intolerance of uncertainty as mediator and moderator

BACKGROUND

While negative life events (NLEs) have been linked to an increased risk of sleep disturbance among adolescents, the mechanisms of this impact still lack further examination. The current study aimed to explore whether intolerance of uncertainty (IU), a dispositional transdiagnostic vulnerability factor for psychopathology, could act as a mediator and/or moderator in the link from NLEs to sleep disturbance.

METHODS

A longitudinal nested subsample of 54,240 Chinese adolescents (aged 9-19) were surveyed at baseline (Timepoint 1) and six months later (Timepoint 2). They completed questionnaires to assess their IU, NLEs, sleep disturbance and sociodemographic characteristics. Mediation and moderation analyses were conducted to test our hypotheses.

RESULTS

Upon adjusting for covariates, IU was found to mediate the relationship between NLEs and residual changes in sleep disturbance over a six-month period, with the mediation effect accounting for 31.8%. Additionally, the moderating role of IU in this relationship was also identified, suggesting that a high level of IU exacerbated the effect of NLEs on sleep disturbance.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, our findings shed light on the dual roles of IU in the link from NLEs to sleep disturbance, holding significant practical implications for preventing and intervening in sleep disturbance among adolescents. To mitigate the risk of sleep disturbance among adolescents experiencing NLEs, timely assessments of IU and tailored interventions to enhance uncertainty tolerance are necessary.

Establishment of the HPLC fluorescence detection method for plasma trace ivermectin and its pharmacokinetics in Bactrian camel

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Ivermectin (IVM), a widely used veterinary anthelmintic, lacks recommended doses for Bactrian camels. This study aims to establish its pharmacokinetics in Bactrian camels, comparing with other livestock.

METHODS

A method for high-performance liquid chromatography fluorescence detection of IVM in plasma was developed.

RESULTS

IVM exhibited linear scaling (y = 0.6946x + 0.0088, R2 = 0.9988) within 0.025-5 ng/mL, with a lower limit of quantification of 25.00 pg/mL, high recovery (>70%) and low RSD (<7%). In Bactrian camels, IVM injection showed a low Cmax, extended Tmax and apparent secondary absorption compared to cattle and sheep.

CONCLUSIONS

Slow absorption and widespread distribution were observed, with peak concentration and area under the curve correlating positively with the dose. This study provides insights into IVM pharmacokinetics in Bactrian camels, informing dose determination and highlighting potential metabolic differences compared to other livestock.

Novel 3D morphological characteristics for congenital biliary dilatation diagnosis: a case-control study

BACKGROUND

Congenital biliary dilatation (CBD) necessitates the timely removal of dilated bile ducts. Accurate differentiation between CBD and secondary biliary dilatation (SBD) is crucial for treatment decisions, and identification of CBD with intrahepatic involvement is vital for surgical planning and supportive care. This study aimed to develop quantitative models based on bile duct morphology to distinguish CBD from SBD and further identify CBD with intrahepatic involvement.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The retrospective study included 131 CBD and 209 SBD patients between December 2014 and December 2021 for model development, internal validation, and testing. A separate cohort of 15 CBD and 34 SBD patients between January 2022 and December 2022 was recruited for temporally-independent validation. Quantitative shape-based (Shape) and diameter-based (Diam) morphological characteristics of bile ducts were extracted to build a CBD diagnosis model to distinguish CBD from SBD and an intrahepatic involvement identification model to classify CBD with/without intrahepatic involvement. The diagnostic performance of the models was compared with that of experienced hepatobiliary surgeons.

RESULTS

The CBD diagnosis model using clinical, Shape, and Diam characteristics showed good performance with an AUROC of 0.942 (95% CI: 0.890-0.994), AUPRC of 0.917 (0.855-0.979), accuracy of 0.891, sensitivity of 0.950, and F1-score of 0.864. The model outperformed two experienced surgeons in accuracy, sensitivity, and F1-score. The intrahepatic involvement identification model using clinical, Shape, and Diam characteristics yielded outstanding performance with an AUROC of 0.944 (0.879-1.000), AUPRC of 0.982 (0.947-1.000), accuracy of 0.932, sensitivity of 0.971, and F1-score of 0.957. The models demonstrated generalizable performance on the temporally-independent validation cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

This study developed two robust quantitative models for distinguishing CBD from SBD and identifying CBD with intrahepatic involvement, respectively, based on morphological characteristics of the bile ducts, showing great potential in risk stratification and surgical planning of CBD.

LINC00265 can Serve as a Potential Biomarker for Predicting Increased Disease Risk, Systemic Inflammation, Disease Severity and Poor Prognosis in Sepsis

BACKGROUND

Identifying effective therapeutic targets is of great significance for improving early diagnosis and prognosis of sepsis. This study aims to explore the role of LINC00265 in sepsis.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study based on data collected from sepsis patients in 2017-2018. The basic clinical information of all subjects were collected and the survival of the sepsis patients within 28 days was monitored. The expression of LINC00265 was detected by qPCR. Receiver operating characteristics and Cox regression analysis were used to evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic value of LINC00265 in patients with sepsiss.

RESULTS

Compared with the healthy population, the expression of LINC00265 was significantly upregulated in patients with sepsis distinguishing them from healthy individuals. This expression was patients with sepsis positively correlated with the APACHEII score, tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-8, and IL-17, and negatively correlated with IL-10. LINC00265 expression was upregulated in the sepsis death group, predicting a lower rate in patients with patients with sepsis. The higher expression of LINC00265 was correlated with lower cumulative patient sursvival.

CONCLUSION

LINC00265 is upregulated in patients with sepsis, and its high expression predicts increased disease severity, heightened inflammation, and a poorer prognosis.

An enhanced machine learning approach for effective prediction of IgA nephropathy patients with severe proteinuria based on clinical data

IgA Nephropathy (IgAN) is a disease of the glomeruli that may eventually lead to chronic kidney disease or kidney failure. The signs and symptoms of IgAN nephropathy are usually not specific enough and are similar to those of other glomerular or inflammatory diseases. This makes a correct diagnosis more difficult. This study collected data from a sample of adult patients diagnosed with primary IgAN at the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, with proteinuria ≥1 g/d at the time of diagnosis. Based on these samples, we propose a machine learning framework based on weIghted meaN oF vectOrs (INFO). An enhanced COINFO algorithm is proposed by merging INFO, Cauchy Mutation (CM) and Oppositional-based Learning (OBL) strategies. At the same time, COINFO and Support Vector Machine (SVM) were integrated to construct the BCOINFO-SVM framework for IgAN diagnosis and prediction. Initially, the proposed enhanced COINFO is evaluated using the IEEE CEC2017 benchmark problems, with the outcomes demonstrating its efficient optimization capability and accuracy in convergence. Furthermore, the feature selection capability of the proposed method is verified on the public medical datasets. Finally, the auxiliary diagnostic experiment was carried out through IgAN real sample data. The results demonstrate that the proposed BCOINFO-SVM can screen out essential features such as High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL), Uric Acid (UA), Cardiovascular Disease (CVD), Hypertension and Diabetes. Simultaneously, the BCOINFO-SVM model achieves an accuracy of 98.56%, with sensitivity at 96.08% and specificity at 97.73%, making it a potential auxiliary diagnostic model for IgAN.

Ultrastable and highly active Co-vacancies-enriched IrCo bifunctional nanoalloys for proton exchange membrane water electrolysis

Exploring the electrocatalysts with high intrinsic activity and stability for both anode and cathode to tolerate the extremely acidic condition in proton exchange membrane water electrolyzer (PEMWE) is crucial for widespread industrial application. Herein, we constructed the bifunctional IrCox nanoalloys with abundant metal vacancies via the combination of chemical reduction and electrochemical treatment for overall water splitting. The developed IrCo0.13 exhibits ultra-low overpotentials of 238 mV for OER and 18.6 mV for HER at 10 mA cm-2 in 0.1 M HClO4, and achieves the exceptional stability of 1000 h for OER and 100 h for HER at 10 mA cm-2. Further, the cell voltage is only 1.68 V to reach a high current density of 1 A cm-2 in PEMWE with IrCo0.13 as the both cathode and anode catalytic layer, and it shows excellent corrosion resistance in acidic environment, evidenced by 415 h stable operation at 1 A cm-2. The strong electronic interactions in the Ir-Co atomic heterostructure and the in-situ generation of Co vacancies by electrochemical oxidation synergistically contribute to the enhanced activity and stability via optimizing the electronic structure of adjacent Ir active sites, enhancing the conductivity and electrochemical active surface area of the catalyst, accelerating charge transfer and kinetics. This work provides a new perspective for designing bifunctional catalysts for practical application in PEMWE.

Beyond silence: evolving ultrasound strategies in the battle against cardiovascular thrombotic challenges

Cardiovascular thrombotic events have long been a perplexing factor in clinical settings, influencing patient prognoses significantly. Ultrasound-mediated acoustic therapy, an innovative thrombolytic treatment method known for its high efficiency, non-invasiveness, safety, and convenience, has demonstrated promising potential for clinical applications and has gradually become a focal point in cardiovascular thrombotic disease research. The current challenge lies in the technical complexities of preparing ultrasound-responsive carriers with thrombus-targeting capabilities and high thrombolytic efficiency. Additionally, optimizing the corresponding acoustic treatment mode is crucial to markedly enhance the thrombolytic effectiveness of ultrasound-mediated acoustic therapy. In light of the current status, this article provides a comprehensive review of the research progress in innovative ultrasound-mediated acoustic therapy for cardiovascular thrombotic diseases. It explores the impact of technical methods, therapeutic mechanisms, and influencing factors on the thrombolytic efficiency and clinical potential of ultrasound-mediated acoustic therapy. The review places particular emphasis on identifying solutions and key considerations in addressing the challenges associated with this cutting-edge therapeutic approach.

Bone-derived PDGF-BB enhances hippocampal non-specific transcytosis through microglia-endothelial crosstalk in HFD-induced metabolic syndrome

BACKGROUND

It is well known that high-fat diet (HFD)-induced metabolic syndrome plays a crucial role in cognitive decline and brain-blood barrier (BBB) breakdown. However, whether the bone-brain axis participates in this pathological process remains unknown. Here, we report that platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) secretion by preosteoclasts in the bone accelerates neuroinflammation. The expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALPL), a nonspecific transcytosis marker, was upregulated during HFD challenge.

MAIN BODY

Preosteoclast-specific Pdgfb transgenic mice with high PDGF-BB concentrations in the circulation recapitulated the HFD-induced neuroinflammation and transcytosis shift. Preosteoclast-specific Pdgfb knockout mice were partially rescued from hippocampal neuroinflammation and transcytosis shifts in HFD-challenged mice. HFD-induced PDGF-BB elevation aggravated microglia-associated neuroinflammation and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) secretion, which increased ALPL expression and transcytosis shift through enhancing protein 1 (SP1) translocation in endothelial cells.

CONCLUSION

Our findings confirm the role of bone-secreted PDGF-BB in neuroinflammation and the transcytosis shift in the hippocampal region during HFD challenge and identify a novel mechanism of microglia-endothelial crosstalk in HFD-induced metabolic syndrome.

Development of a Cell Culture Model for Inducible SARS-CoV-2 Replication

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) induces direct cytopathic effects, complicating the establishment of low-cytotoxicity cell culture models for studying its replication. We initially developed a DNA vector-based replicon system utilizing the CMV promoter to generate a recombinant viral genome bearing reporter genes. However, this system frequently resulted in drug resistance and cytotoxicity, impeding model establishment. Herein, we present a novel cell culture model with SARS-CoV-2 replication induced by Cre/LoxP-mediated DNA recombination. An engineered SARS-CoV-2 transcription unit was subcloned into a bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) vector. To enhance biosafety, the viral spike protein gene was deleted, and the nucleocapsid gene was replaced with a reporter gene. An exogenous sequence was inserted within NSP1 as a modulatory cassette that is removable after Cre/LoxP-mediated DNA recombination and subsequent RNA splicing. Using the PiggyBac transposon strategy, the transcription unit was integrated into host cell chromatin, yielding a stable cell line capable of inducing recombinant SARS-CoV-2 RNA replication. The model exhibited sensitivity to the potential antivirals forsythoside A and verteporfin. An innovative inducible SARS-CoV-2 replicon cell model was introduced to further explore the replication and pathogenesis of the virus and facilitate screening and assessment of anti-SARS-CoV-2 therapeutics.

Sleep disturbance and internalizing symptoms in adolescents: a moderated mediation model of self-control and mindfulness

OBJECTIVES

Despite accumulating evidence regarding the impact of sleep disturbance on internalizing symptoms among adolescents, the underlying psychological mechanisms remain inadequately explored. This study aimed to investigate a conceptual framework elucidating how sleep disturbance influences internalizing symptoms in adolescents through the mediating role of self-control, with mindfulness as a moderator.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, 1876 Chinese adolescents (Mage = 14.88 years, SD = 1.47 years, range = 12-19 years, 44.7% boys) completed the Youth Self-Rating Insomnia Scale (YSIS), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), Brief Self-control Scale (BSCS), and Mindful Attention Awareness Scale-Children (MAAS-C) to provide data on sleep-related variables, internalizing symptoms (anxiety and depression), self-control, and mindfulness, respectively. The PROCESS macro for SPSS was applied to perform moderated mediation analysis.

RESULTS

Sleep disturbance demonstrated a significant positive correlation with internalizing symptoms in adolescents, including anxiety (β = 0.481, p < 0.001) and depression (β = 0.543, p < 0.001). Self-control served as a mediator between sleep disturbance and two forms of internalizing symptoms. Moreover, mindfulness moderated the pathways from self-control to internalizing symptoms (for anxiety symptoms: β = 0.007, p < 0.001; for depression symptoms: β = 0.006, p < 0.001), and the mediating relationships were weaker for adolescents exhibiting higher levels of mindfulness.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings enhance understanding of the impact, pathways, and influencing factors of sleep disturbance on adolescent internalizing symptoms, suggesting the importance of enhancing mindfulness levels in addressing self-control deficits and subsequently reducing internalizing symptoms among adolescents.

The effects of an integrated supportive programme on oral health in patients with head and neck cancer undergoing radiotherapy: A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

This study determines the effect of an integrated 12-month follow-up support programme on the oral health of patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) who received radiotherapy (RT).

METHODS

Participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group (n = 47) or a control group (n = 45). The intervention group received usual care and an integrated supportive programme, which included face-to-face education and telephone coaching. The control group received usual care. After a clinical dental examination, the prevalence of caries, gingival inflammation and plaque were registered. Oral health impact profile (OHIP)-14 and the WHO Oral Health Questionnaire for Adults were used to evaluate oral health in both groups.

RESULTS

A total of 79 participants completed a 12-month follow-up. The intervention group had lower caries increment between baseline and the 12-month follow-up compared with controls, although this was not statistically significant. After 12 months, the intervention group had statistically significant better outcomes in the plaque index (p = 0.038) and the OHIP-14 (p = 0.002) than the control group. No statistically significant differences were found between the two groups concerning gingival index. However, the intervention group reported an overall better state of teeth (p = 0.034) and gums after 12 months (p = 0.042).

CONCLUSIONS

The integrated supportive programme showed positive effects on improving oral health in patients with HNC regarding plaque control, the state of teeth and gums and oral health-related quality of life during the 12-month follow-up.

Laser Irradiation Synthesis of AuPd Alloy with Decreased Alloying Degree for Efficient Ethanol Oxidation Reaction

The preparation of electrocatalysts with high performance for the ethanol oxidation reaction is vital for the large-scale commercialization of direct ethanol fuel cells. Here, we successfully synthesized a high-performance electrocatalyst of a AuPd alloy with a decreased alloying degree via pulsed laser irradiation in liquids. As indicated by the experimental results, the photochemical effect-induced surficial deposition of Pd atoms, combined with the photothermal effect-induced interdiffusion of Au and Pd atoms, resulted in the formation of AuPd alloys with a decreased alloying degree. Structural characterization reveals that L-AuPd exhibits a lower degree of alloying compared to C-AuPd prepared via the conventional co-reduction method. This distinct structure endows L-AuPd with outstanding catalytic activity and stability in EOR, achieving mass and specific activities as high as 16.01 A mgPd-1 and 20.69 mA cm-2, 9.1 and 5.2 times than that of the commercial Pd/C respectively. Furthermore, L-AuPd retains 90.1% of its initial mass activity after 300 cycles. This work offers guidance for laser-assisted fabrication of efficient Pd-based catalysts in EOR.