SUMOylation and coupling of eNOS mediated by PIAS1 contribute to maintenance of vascular homeostasis

Endothelial dysfunction (ED) is commonly considered a crucial initiating step in the pathogenesis of numerous cardiovascular diseases. The coupling of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) is important in maintaining normal endothelial functions. However, it still remains elusive whether and how eNOS SUMOylation affects the eNOS coupling. In the study, we investigate the roles and possible action mechanisms of protein inhibitor of activated STAT 1 (PIAS1) in ED. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) treated with palmitate acid (PA) in vitro and ApoE-/- mice fed with high-fat diet (HFD) in vivo were constructed as the ED models. Our in vivo data show that PIAS1 alleviates the dysfunction of vascular endothelium by increasing nitric oxide (NO) level, reducing malondialdehyde (MDA) level, and activating the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-protein kinase B-endothelial nitric oxide synthase (PI3K-AKT-eNOS) signaling in ApoE-/- mice. Our in vitro data also show that PIAS1 can SUMOylate eNOS under endogenous conditions; moreover, it antagonizes the eNOS uncoupling induced by PA. The findings demonstrate that PIAS1 alleviates the dysfunction of vascular endothelium by promoting the SUMOylation and inhibiting the uncoupling of eNOS, suggesting that PIAS1 would become an early predictor of atherosclerosis and a new potential target of the hyperlipidemia-related cardiovascular diseases.

Echinacoside exerts neuroprotection via suppressing microglial α-synuclein/TLR2/NF-κB/NLRP3 axis in parkinsonian models

BACKGROUND

Echinacoside (ECH), a natural active compound, was found to exert neuroprotection in Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain controversial.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to explore the roles of ECH in PD and its engaged mechanisms.

CONCLUSION

In vivo, MPTP was adapted to construct subacute PD mouse model to explore the regulation of ECH on NLRP3 inflammasome. In vitro, α-synuclein (α-syn)/MPP+ was used to mediate the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in BV2 cells, and the mechanism of ECH regulation of it was explored with molecular docking, immunofluorescence, Western blotting, and small molecule inhibitors.

CONCLUSION

The activation of microglial NLRP3 inflammasome could be evoked by MPTP in vitro, but its toxic metabolite MPP+ alone cannot trigger the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in vitro, which requires α-synuclein (α-syn) priming. Exogenous α-syn could evoke microglial TLR2/NF-κB/NLRP3 axis, playing the priming role in MPP+ -mediated NLRP3 inflammasome activation. ECH can suppress the upregulation of α-syn in MPTP-treated mice and BV2 microglia. It can also suppress the activation of the TLR2/NF-κB/NLRP3 axis induced by α-syn.

CONCLUSION

ECH exerts neuroprotective effects by downregulating the TLR2/NF-κB/NLRP3 axis via reducing the expression of α-syn in the PD models.

Cell Membrane-Camouflaged Nanoparticles Mediated Nucleic Acids Delivery

Nucleic acids have emerged as promising therapeutic agents for many diseases because of their potential in modulating gene expression. However, the delivery of nucleic acids remains a significant challenge in gene therapy. Although viral vectors have shown high transfection efficiency, concerns regarding teratogenicity or carcinogenicity have been raised. Non-viral vehicles, including cationic polymers, liposomes, and inorganic materials possess advantages in terms of safety, ease of preparation, and low cost. Nevertheless, they also face limitations related to immunogenicity, quick clearance in vivo, and lack of targeting specificity. On the other hand, bioinspired strategies have shown increasing potential in the field of drug delivery, yet there is a lack of comprehensive reviews summarizing the rapid development of bioinspired nanoparticles based on the cell membrane camouflage to construct the nucleic acids vehicles. Herein, we enumerated the current difficulties in nucleic acid delivery with various non-viral vehicles and provided an overview of bioinspired strategies for nucleic acid delivery.

[Pro-oxidation status of rotator cuff tissue and expression of Beclin-1 and mTOR in patients with rotator cuff injury]

OBJECTIVE

To explore pro-oxidative state of rotator cuff tissue and expression levels of Beclin-1 and mam-malian target of rapamycin(mTOR) in patients with acute and chronic rotator cuff injury, and then analyzed relationship between rotator cuff injury and oxidative stress and autophagy.

METHODS

Forty patients with rotator cuff injury were seleceted from July 2019 to December 2020, and divided into male chronic injury group, male acute injury group, female chronic injury group, and female acute injury group, 10 patients in each group. All patients were performed rotator cuff repair under arthroscopy. The sample of tendon at the rotator cuff injury site of the patient was taken during operation, and total reactive oxygen species (ROS) and superoxide dismutase(SOD) were detected by detection kit;expression of Beclin-1 and mTOR mRNA were detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and Western-blot was applied to detect protein expression of Beclin-1 and p-mTOR/mTOR.

RESULTS

There were no significant difference in expression of ROS, SOD, Beclin-1mRNA and mTOR mRNA between male and female chronic injury groups, and between male and female acute injury groups (P>0.05); ROS, SOD and Beclin-1mRNA in male chronic injury group were higher than those in male chronic injury group, while mTOR mRNAand protein decreased (P<0.05);ROS, SOD and Beclin-1 mRNA in female chronic injury group were up-regulated compared with female acute injury group, while mTOR mRNA was down-regulated (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Chronic rotator cuff injury is more likely to stimulate the pro-oxidation state of rotator cuff tissue than acute rotator cuff injury, which could up-regulating expression of autophagy factor Beclin-1 and down-regulating expression of mTOR. Therefore, patients with chronic rotator cuff injury may have higher levels of oxidative stress and autophagy.

Combined Measurement of the Higgs Boson Mass from the H→γγ and H→ZZ^{*}→4ℓ Decay Channels with the ATLAS Detector Using sqrt[s]=7, 8, and 13 TeV pp Collision Data

A measurement of the mass of the Higgs boson combining the H→ZZ^{*}→4ℓ and H→γγ decay channels is presented. The result is based on 140  fb^{-1} of proton-proton collision data collected by the ATLAS detector during LHC run 2 at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV combined with the run 1 ATLAS mass measurement, performed at center-of-mass energies of 7 and 8 TeV, yielding a Higgs boson mass of 125.11±0.09(stat)±0.06(syst)=125.11±0.11  GeV. This corresponds to a 0.09% precision achieved on this fundamental parameter of the Standard Model of particle physics.

The Drainage Dysfunction of Meningeal Lymphatic Vessels Is Correlated with the Recurrence of Chronic Subdural Hematoma: a Prospective Study

Meningeal lymphatic vessels (mLVs) were recently discovered to be involved in the waste drainage process in the brain, which has also been associated with a variety of neurological diseases. This research paper hypothesizes that the drainage function of mLVs may be affected after chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) and the alterations of mLVs' drainage may predict CSDH recurrence. In this prospective observational study, unenhanced 3D T2-fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (3D T2-FLAIR) MRI data were collected from CSDH patients and healthy participants for analysis. Patients with CSDH who underwent surgery received MRI scans before and after surgery, whereas healthy controls and patients with CSDH who received pharmaceutical treatment received only one MRI scan at enrollment. The signal unit ratio (SUR) of mLVs were then measured according to the MRI data and calculated to define mLVs' drainage function. Finally, the relationship between mLVs' drainage function and CSDH recurrence was analyzed accordingly. Thirty-four participants were enrolled in this study, including 27 CSDH patients and 7 controls. The SUR of mLVs in all CSDH patients changed significantly before and after surgery. Moreover, the drainage function of the mLVs ipsilateral to hematoma (mLVs-IH) in CSDH patients was significantly lower than that in the controls (p < 0.05). Last, a higher improvement rate of the drainage function of the mLVs-IH is correlated to a lower risk of recurrence (p < 0.05). This study revealed the mLVs' drainage dysfunction after CSDH through non-invasive MRI. Furthermore, the drainage function of mLVs is an independent predictive factor of CSDH recurrence.

Search for Dark Photons in Rare Z Boson Decays with the ATLAS Detector

A search for events with a dark photon produced in association with a dark Higgs boson via rare decays of the standard model Z boson is presented, using 139  fb^{-1} of sqrt[s]=13  TeV proton-proton collision data recorded by the ATLAS detector at the Large Hadron Collider. The dark boson decays into a pair of dark photons, and at least two of the three dark photons must each decay into a pair of electrons or muons, resulting in at least two same-flavor opposite-charge lepton pairs in the final state. The data are found to be consistent with the background prediction, and upper limits are set on the dark photon's coupling to the dark Higgs boson times the kinetic mixing between the standard model photon and the dark photon, α_{D}ϵ^{2}, in the dark photon mass range of [5, 40] GeV except for the ϒ mass window [8.8, 11.1] GeV. This search explores new parameter space not previously excluded by other experiments.

Isolation and Pathogenicity Analysis of a G5P[23] Porcine Rotavirus Strain

(1) Background: Group A rotaviruses (RVAs) are the primary cause of severe intestinal diseases in piglets. Porcine rotaviruses (PoRVs) are widely prevalent in Chinese farms, resulting in significant economic losses to the livestock industry. However, isolation of PoRVs is challenging, and their pathogenicity in piglets is not well understood. (2) Methods: We conducted clinical testing on a farm in Jiangsu Province, China, and isolated PoRV by continuously passaging on MA104 cells. Subsequently, the pathogenicity of the isolated strain in piglets was investigated. The piglets of the PoRV-infection group were orally inoculated with 1 mL of 1.0 × 106 TCID50 PoRV, whereas those of the mock-infection group were fed with an equivalent amount of DMEM. (3) Results: A G5P[23] genotype PoRV strain was successfully isolated from one of the positive samples and named RVA/Pig/China/JS/2023/G5P[23](JS). The genomic constellation of this strain was G5-P[23]-I5-R1-C1-M1-A8-N1-T1-E1-H1. Sequence analysis revealed that the genes VP3, VP7, NSP2, and NSP4 of the JS strain were closely related to human RVAs, whereas the remaining gene segments were closely related to porcine RVAs, indicating a reassortment between porcine and human strains. Furthermore, infection of 15-day-old piglets with the JS strain resulted in a diarrheal rate of 100% (8 of 8) and a mortality rate of 37.5% (3 of 8). (4) Conclusions: The isolated G5P[23] genotype rotavirus strain, which exhibited strong pathogenicity in piglets, may have resulted from recombination between porcine and human strains. It may serve as a potential candidate strain for developing vaccines, and its immunogenicity can be tested in future studies.

Framework of wind joint analysis for different lake regions and its effects on the water quality

Water quality of Lake Taihu (LT) is paid wide attention, and the wind field makes wind-induced flow, significantly impacting the water quality. As a wide lake, the wind field suffers spatial and temporal changes. The correlated relationship among the wind fields for different lake regions has not been studied, and the joint effects of wind field on the water quality is still unknown. Hence, this paper proposed a framework of wind joint analysis for different lake regions and modelling its effects on the water quality, including joint analysis of wind field for different lake regions using Copula function, random time series generation of wind field using Monte-Carlo simulation, and hydrodynamic and water quality numerical simulation. Taking the Lake Taihu (LT) as study case, the joint relationships of wind field for four lake regions were analyzed, and the CODMN, TP and TN distributions under different wind fields were simulated. This paper showed the following: (1) The relationship between the wind speed and direction was weak, and the correlated relationships among the wind fields for four lake regions were significant (ρ > 0.5). (2) The water quality of LT was more influenced by the wind direction rather than the wind speed, with an impacting ratio of ∼4.5. (3) The discharged weighted angle of runoff outflow (DWARO) was a practical index to improve the water quality. When regulating the input/output runoff discharge, water diversion project and water intakes in practice, the administrations should make the DWARO less than or equal to the average wind direction, to decrease the average pollutant concentration and improve the water quality of lake and intake. The proposed framework and results of LT could be extended to other wide shallow lakes to support the environmental management and basin runoff regulation.

Machine Learning Modeling Based on Microbial Community for Prediction of Natural Attenuation in Groundwater

Natural attenuation is widely adopted as a remediation strategy, and the attenuation potential is crucial to evaluate whether remediation goals can be achieved within the specified time. In this work, long-term monitoring of indigenous microbial communities as well as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX) and chlorinated aliphatic hydrocarbons (CAHs) in groundwater was conducted at a historic pesticide manufacturing site. A machine learning approach for natural attenuation prediction was developed with random forest classification (RFC) followed by either random forest regression (RFR) or artificial neural networks (ANNs), utilizing microbiological information and contaminant attenuation rates for model training and cross-validation. Results showed that the RFC could accurately predict the feasibility of natural attenuation for both BTEX and CAHs, and it could successfully identify the key genera. The RFR model was sufficient for the BTEX natural attenuation rate prediction but unreliable for CAHs. The ANN model showed better performance in the prediction of the attenuation rates for both BTEX and CAHs. Based on the assessments, a composite modeling method of RFC and ANN was proposed, which could reduce the mean absolute percentage errors. This study reveals that the combined machine learning approach under the synergistic use of field microbial data has promising potential for predicting natural attenuation.

Concurrent remission of lymphoma and Sjögren's disease following anti-CD19 chimeric antigen receptor-T cell therapy for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: a case report

Anti-CD19 chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells not only target CD19-positive malignant lymphoma cells but also normal B cells. The utility of CAR-T cell therapy has been reported in rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus; however, its use in Sjögren's disease (SjD) remains unknown. In this study, we describe the case of a 76-year-old woman with active SjD for 10 years who was diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. After receiving anti-CD19 CAR-T cell therapy, she achieved complete remission (CR) on day 28. Since the onset of her 10-year history with SjD, she was negative for antinuclear antibodies and anti-Ro-52 for the first time on day 90 after CAR-T cell therapy. Six months after CAR-T cell therapy, the CR status was maintained, serum cytokine levels returned to their normal levels, and dry mouth symptoms improved. The EULAR Sjögren's Syndrome Disease Activity Index score decreased from 5 to 2, indicating a partial remission of SjD activity compared with that before CAR-T cell treatment. In the early stage of treatment, she presented with grade 2 cytokine release syndrome and grade 1 neurotoxicity, which were completely controlled after an active intervention. This case highlights the potential application of CAR-T cells in treating autoimmune diseases, such as SjD.

Liver-Specific Ionizable Lipid Nanoparticles Mediated Efficient RNA Interference to Clear "Bad Cholesterol"

Background

High-level low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) plays a vital role in the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Low-density lipoprotein receptors (LDLRs) are scavengers that bind to LDL-C in the liver. LDLR proteins are regulated by proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), which mediates the degradation of LDLR and adjusts the level of the plasma LDL-C. The low expression of PCSK9 leads to the up-regulation of liver LDLRs and the reduction of plasma LDL-C. Hepatocytes are attractive targets for small interfering RNA (siRNA) delivery to silence Pcsk9 gene, due to their significant role in LDL-C regulation.

Methods

Here, a type of liver-specific ionizable lipid nanoparticles is developed for efficient siRNA delivery. This type of nanoparticles shows high stability, enabling efficient cargo delivery specifically to hepatocytes, and a membrane-active polymer that reversibly masks activity until an acidic environment is reached.

Results

Significantly, the siPcsk9 (siRNA targeting to Pcsk9)-loaded nanoparticles (GLP) could silence 90% of the Pcsk9 mRNA in vitro. In vivo study showed that the improved accumulation of GLP in the liver increased LDLR level by 3.35-fold and decreased plasma LDL-C by 35%.

Conclusion

GLP has shown a powerful effect on reducing LDL-C, thus providing a potential therapy for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

Identification of isothiazolones analogues as potent bactericidal agents against antibiotic resistant CRE and MRSA strains

Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) has emerged as a worldwide spread nosocomial superbug exhibiting antimicrobial resistance (AMR) to all current antibiotics, leaving limited options for treating its infection. To discovery novel antibiotics against CRE, we designed and synthesized a series of 14 isothiazol-3(2H)-one analogues subjected to antibacterial activity evaluation against Escherichia coli (E. coli) BL21 (NDM-1) and clinical strain E. coli HN88 for investigating their structure-activity relationships (SAR). The results suggested that 5-chloroisothiazolone core with an N-(4-chlorophenyl) substitution 5a was the most potent antibacterial activity against the E. coli BL21 (NDM-1) with MIC value of less than 0.032 μg/mL, which was at least 8000-fold higher than the positive control Meropenem (MRM). It also displayed 2048-fold potent than the positive control MRM against E. coli HN88. Additionally, SAR analysis supported the conclusion that compounds with a chloro-group substituted on the 5-position of the heterocyclic ring was much more potent than other positions. The board spectrum analysis suggested that compound 5a showed a promising antimicrobial activity on MRSA and CRE pathogens. Meanwhile, cytotoxicity study of compound 5a suggested that it had a therapeutic index value of 875, suggesting future therapeutic potential. In vivo efficacy study declared that compound 5a could also protect the BALB/c mice against American type culture collection (ATCC) 43,300. Further screening of our compounds against a collection of CRE strains isolated from patients indicated that compound 5 g displayed much stronger antibacterial activity compared with MRM. In conclusion, our studies indicated that isothiazolones analogues could be potent bactericidal agents against CRE and MRSA pathogens.

Review on Pediatric Malignant Focal Liver Lesions with Imaging Evaluation: Part II

Malignant focal liver lesions (FLLs) represent various kinds of epithelial and mesenchymal tumors. In pediatric patients, the understanding of pediatric liver diseases and associated imaging manifestations is essential for making accurate diagnosis and differential diagnosis. This paper will discuss the latest knowledge of the common pediatric malignant FLLs, including undifferentiated embryonal sarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, epithelioid hemangioendothelioma, angiosarcoma, and malignant rhabdoid tumor. Medical imaging features are not only helpful for clinical diagnosis, but can also be useful in the evaluation and follow-up of pre- and post-treatment. The future perspectives of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) enhancement patterns of FLLs in pediatric patients are also mentioned.

Intestinal epithelial dopamine receptor signaling drives sex-specific disease exacerbation in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis

Although the gut microbiota can influence central nervous system (CNS) autoimmune diseases, the contribution of the intestinal epithelium to CNS autoimmunity is less clear. Here, we showed that intestinal epithelial dopamine D2 receptors (IEC DRD2) promoted sex-specific disease progression in an animal model of multiple sclerosis. Female mice lacking Drd2 selectively in intestinal epithelial cells showed a blunted inflammatory response in the CNS and reduced disease progression. In contrast, overexpression or activation of IEC DRD2 by phenylethylamine administration exacerbated disease severity. This was accompanied by altered lysozyme expression and gut microbiota composition, including reduced abundance of Lactobacillus species. Furthermore, treatment with N2-acetyl-L-lysine, a metabolite derived from Lactobacillus, suppressed microglial activation and neurodegeneration. Taken together, our study indicates that IEC DRD2 hyperactivity impacts gut microbial abundances and increases susceptibility to CNS autoimmune diseases in a female-biased manner, opening up future avenues for sex-specific interventions of CNS autoimmune diseases.

Exploring the application value of the modified Delphi method in the development process of acupuncture and moxibustion guideline recommendations based on the WFAS Clinical Practice Guideline for Female Urinary Incontinence

Taking the recommendations development of the World Federation of Acupuncture-Moxibustion Societies (WFAS) standard Clinical Practice Guideline for Female Urinary Incontinence as an example, this study analyzed the consensus expert composition, specific consensus process, and results in the development of the guideline's recommendations. It systematically examined the advantages of using the modified Delphi method in the formation of recommendations for acupuncture and moxibustion clinical practice guideline, with the aim of providing reference for the development of acupuncture and moxibustion guidelines in the same field.

[Technical specification for orthodontic transmission straight wire technique]

Malocclusion is an oral disease with a high prevalence. The goal of orthodontic treatment is health, aesthetics, function and stability. The transmission straight wire appliance and technique is an innovative orthodontic system with independent intellectual property rights invented by Professor Jiuxiang Lin's team based on decades of clinical experience, which provides a new solution for the non-surgical correction of skeletal malocclusions, especially class Ⅲ malocclusion, and it is also a good carrier for the implementation of the concept of healthy orthodontics. Due to the lack of guidelines, how to implement standardized application of transmission straight wire technique remains a problem to be solved. This technical specification was formed by combining the guidance from Professor Jiuxiang Lin and joint revision by a number of authoritative experts from the Orthodontic Special Committee, Chinese Stomatological Association, with reference to relevant literatures, and combined with abundant clinical experience of many experts. This specification aims to provide reference to standardize the clinical application of transmission straight wire technique, so as to reduce the risk and complications, and finally to improve the clinical application level of this technique.

Clinical phenotypes and prognoses of microscopic polyangiitis based on kidney biopsies

BACKGROUND

To classify the different clinical phenotypes and compare the distinct prognoses of microscopic polyangiitis (MPA).

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 436 patients with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitides (AAV) from 2015 to 2022 was conducted in our center, of which 90 patients were diagnosed with MPA and underwent renal biopsy.

RESULTS

Among the 90 MPA patients, 63% were female, and the median age at onset was 63 years (25th-75th percentile: 58-68). The median follow-up time was 26 months (25th-75th percentile: 10-53). We identified four subtypes: renal impairment type (cluster 1, 39%), pure type (cluster 2, 22%), systemic inflammation type (cluster 3, 26%), and rapid progress type (cluster 4, 13%). Cluster 1, characterized by renal dysfunction at onset (80%), demonstrated poor prognoses with only 26% achieved complete remission (CR), 11% dying, and 19% developing renal failure. In contrast, patients in cluster 2, exclusively female, most had only kidney involvement showed the best prognoses with 55% achieving CR and none experiencing death or renal failure within 10 years. Cluster 3 mostly consisted of males; high fever and C-reactive protein levels were the primary characteristics. These cases exhibited moderate prognoses with 53% achieving CR, 9% dying, and 4% developing renal failure. Finally, patients in cluster 4, which was characterized by rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis, had the worst prognoses, with none achieving CR, 8% dying, and 75% developing renal failure despite aggressive treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

MPA is classified into four subtypes with distinct clinical manifestations and prognoses.

Graph Reasoning Module for Alzheimer's Disease Diagnosis: A Plug-and-Play Method

Recent advances in deep learning have led to increased adoption of convolutional neural networks (CNN) for structural magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI)-based Alzheimer's disease (AD) detection. AD results in widespread damage to neurons in different brain regions and destroys their connections. However, current CNN-based methods struggle to relate spatially distant information effectively. To solve this problem, we propose a graph reasoning module (GRM), which can be directly incorporated into CNN-based AD detection models to simulate the underlying relationship between different brain regions and boost AD diagnosis performance. Specifically, in GRM, an adaptive graph Transformer (AGT) block is designed to adaptively construct a graph representation based on the feature map given by CNN, a graph convolutional network (GCN) block is adopted to update the graph representation, and a feature map reconstruction (FMR) block is built to convert the learned graph representation to a feature map. Experimental results demonstrate that the insertion of the GRM in the existing AD classification model can increase its balanced accuracy by more than 4.3%. The GRM-embedded model achieves state-of-the-art performance compared with current deep learning-based AD diagnosis methods, with a balanced accuracy of 86.2%.

Fabrication of multi-functional gelatin/deep eutectic solvent/polyacrylonitrile nanofiber membranes via electrospinning

In this work, gelatin was dissolved in sodium acetate trihydrate/urea deep eutectic solvent (DES) and then mixed with polyacrylonitrile (PAN) spinning solution to prepare composite nanofiber membranes via electrospinning. The rheological properties of gelatin/DES (Gel/DES) solution and gelatin/DES/PAN (GDES/PAN) spinning solution were investigated. Besides, the water vapor transmittance rate, water contact angle, and antistatic and mechanical properties of GDES/PAN nanofiber membranes had also been evaluated and the composition and structure of GDES/PAN nanofiber membranes had also been characterized by SEM, EDS and FTIR further. Due to the introduction of DES components and gelatin, the composite nanofibers presented a smooth surface, small diameter, uniform distribution and good continuity. GDES/PAN nanofiber membranes also exhibited desirable breathable properties, hydrophilicity, antistatic properties and mechanical strength compared with the PAN nanofiber membrane. GDES/PAN nanofiber membranes would provide new opportunities for the application of gelatin and DES in the electrospinning field.

PTH level might be associated with impaired quality of life in patients with nonsurgical hypoparathyroidism

OBJECTIVE

Nonsurgical hypoparathyroidism (ns-HP) is a rare disease. There are few studies on Quality of Life (QoL) among patients with ns-HP. This study aimed to investigate the QoL among ns-HP patients with regular conventional treatment, and explore the influence factors affecting QoL among these Chinese ns-HP patients.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study comparing 101 patients identified as ns-HP and 101 healthy controls. The questionnaires of Short Form 36 Health Survey questionnaire version 2(SF-36v2) were used to evaluate QoL.

RESULTS

Scores of all eight subdomains of SF-36v2 and physical component scores (PCS), mental component scores (MCS) were significantly lower in the ns-HP group compared with the healthy controls. The indices of all subdomains of SF-36v2 between Q1 (the lowest quartile) and Q4 (the highest quartile) groups were compared, suggesting higher percentages of detectable parathyroid hormone (PTH) before treatment in Q4 group among all QoL indices except two subdomains (physical function and body pain).

CONCLUSION

Both mental and physical QoL were impaired in the ns-HP patients even with regular conventional treatment for hypocalcemia, which were more severe in cases with lower baseline PTH levels.

Medium-term clinical efficacy of endoscopic antireflux mucosectomy on laryngopharyngeal reflux: a retrospective multicenter cohort study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Studies on the effect of antireflux mucosectomy (ARMS) on laryngopharyngeal reflux disease (LPRD) are lacking. We conducted a multicenter retrospective study to explore the clinical efficacy of ARMS on LPRD.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the data of patients diagnosed with LPRD by oropharyngeal 24-hour Dx-pH monitoring who underwent ARMS. The effects of ARMS on LPRD were evaluated by comparing the 36-Item Short-Form Survey (SF-36), reflux symptom index (RSI), and 24-hour Dx-pH monitoring scores before and 1 year after surgery. Patients were divided into groups according to gastroesophageal flap valve (GEFV) grade to explore the effect of GEFV on prognosis.

RESULTS

One hundred eighty-three patients were included in the study. The oropharyngeal pH monitoring results showed that the effective rate of ARMS was 72.1% (132/183). After surgery, the SF-36 score was higher (P = .000), RSI score was lower (P = .000), and the symptoms of constant throat clearing; difficulty swallowing food, liquids, and pills; coughing after eating or after lying down; troublesome or annoying cough; and breathing difficulties or choking episodes were significantly improved (P < .05). Upright reflux was dominant in GEFV grade I to III patients, and the SF-36, RSI, and upright Ryan index scores were significantly improved after surgery (P < .05). In GEFV grade IV patients, regurgitation was dominant in the supine position, and the above evaluation indexes were worse after surgery (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

ARMS is effective for LPRD. The GEFV grade can predict the prognosis of surgery. ARMS is effective in GEFV grade I to III patients, but the effect is not exact in GEFV grade IV patients and may even be aggravated.

Long Non-coding RNA H19 Promotes NLRP3-Mediated Pyroptosis After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in Rats

NLRP3 inflammasomes have been reported to be an essential mediator in the inflammatory response during early brain injury (EBI) following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Recent studies have indicated that NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis and long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) H19 can participate in the inflammatory response. However, the roles and functions of lncRNA H19 in NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis during EBI after SAH are unknown and need to be further elucidated. NLRP3 inflammasome proteins were significantly elevated in CSF of human with SAH induced EBI and presented a positive correlation with severity. In ipsilateral hemisphere cortex of rats, these NLRP3 inflammasome proteins were also increased and accompanied with upregulation of H19, and both of NLRP3 and H19 were peaked at 24 h after SAH. However, knockdown of H19 markedly decreased the expression of NLRP3 inflammasome proteins at 24 h after SAH in rats and also ameliorated EBI, showing improved neurobehavioral deficits, cerebral edema, and neuronal injury. Moreover, knocking down of H19 downregulated the expression of Gasdermin D (GSDMD) in microglia in SAH rats. Similarly, knockdown of H19 also alleviated OxyHb-induced pyroptosis and NLRP3-mediated inflammasomes activation in primary microglia. Lastly, H19 competitively sponged with rno-miR-138-5p and then upregulated NLRP3 expression in the post-SAH inflammatory response. lncRNA H19 promotes NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis by functioning as rno-miR-138-5p sponge in rats during EBI after SAH, which might provide a potential therapeutic target for post-SAH inflammation regulation.

[The predictive value of microvascular obstruction for adverse left ventricular remodeling after primary percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction: a prospective study]

Objectives: Microvascular obstruction (MVO) is a specific cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging feature in patients with acute myocardial infarction. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the predictive value of MVO in left ventricular adverse remodeling after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Methods: A total of 167 patients with STEMI undergoing primary PCI in the Chinese PLA General Hospital from 2016 to 2020 were enrolled in this prospective cohort study, the average age of study patients was 57±10 years old, with 151 males (90.4%) and 16 females (9.6%). The patients were divided into the MVO group (n=81) and non-MVO group (n=86) according to the presence or absence of MVO on CMR imaging, respectively. The primary endpoint of the study was the occurrence of left ventricular adverse remodeling, which was defined as an increase in left ventricular end diastolic volume (LVEDV) by >20% at 6 months after primary PCI compared with the baseline. Patients who completed follow-up were diagnosed as left ventricular adverse remodeling or no left ventricular adverse remodeling according to CMR. The baseline data, perioperative data, and related data of end points were compared between the MVO group and non-MVO group. Finally, the predictive value of MVO in left ventricular adverse remodeling was calculated by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Results: In the baseline data, preoperative thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow (χ2=13.74, P=0.003) and postoperative TIMI flow (χ2=14.87, P=0.001) were both obviously decreased in the MVO group. After 6 months of follow-up, the incidence of left ventricular adverse remodeling in the MVO group was significantly higher than that in the non-MVO group [37.0%(27/73) vs. 18.9%(14/74), χ2=5.96, P=0.015]. The left ventricular end systolic volume at 6 months post infarction in the MVO group was significantly larger than that in the non-MVO group [(94±32) vs. (68±20) ml, t=-5.98, P<0.001], as well as the LVEDV [(169±38) vs. (143±29) ml, t=-4.74, P<0.001]. Receiver operating characteristic curve showed that the area under the curve of MVO size for predicting left ventricular adverse remodeling was 0.637. Conclusion: The risk of left ventricular adverse remodeling is significantly increased in patients with MVO after primary PCI for acute STEMI.

Decoupling tourism growth from carbon emissions: Evidence from Chengdu, China

The fast growth increases in energy use and greenhouse gas emissions in China's tourism industry. This article assessed the carbon emissions of tourist Chengdu's traffic patterns and how they are expected to change between 2005 and 2021 and explains why tourism carbon decoupling is important for sustainable tourism development. In order to investigate how carbon emissions from tourism may expand without necessarily increasing in tandem with GDP and the variables that influence it, the Tapir model and the LMDI (logarithmic mean Divisia index) method were used. In our study, we looked at six important variables, including (1) the number of visitors, (2) the level of tourism spending per capita, (3) the contribution rate of the tourism sector with according to the country's total national income, (4) the amount of passenger traffic relative to GDP, and (5) the energy consumption relative to the volume of passenger traffic. There have been five stages in the correlation: positively charged decoupling, weak decoupling, negative decoupling, strong coupling, and strong decoupling. All of these describe the relationship between the expansion of China's tourist industry and the country's carbon emissions. Findings highlighted the importance of large numbers of visitors, high levels of per-person tourism spending, and low passenger traffic volume per unit of energy consumption as key positive factors. The rise of carbon emissions may also be slowed by increasing the number of passengers transported per unit of GDP. Carbon emissions from tourists in Chengdu are fluctuating, and this influences the city's economy. The findings have significant theoretical and practical implications for Chengdu's transition to a low-carbon economy and for the formulation of policies to reduce emissions. During the research period, most Chinese provinces exhibited ideal decoupling situations. This research has the potential to be used as a scientific resource for guiding the long-term growth as a result of China's tourist sector.

Adaptive Multioutput Gradient RBF Tracker for Nonlinear and Nonstationary Regression

Multioutput regression of nonlinear and nonstationary data is largely understudied in both machine learning and control communities. This article develops an adaptive multioutput gradient radial basis function (MGRBF) tracker for online modeling of multioutput nonlinear and nonstationary processes. Specifically, a compact MGRBF network is first constructed with a new two-step training procedure to produce excellent predictive capacity. To improve its tracking ability in fast time-varying scenarios, an adaptive MGRBF (AMGRBF) tracker is proposed, which updates the MGRBF network structure online by replacing the worst performing node with a new node that automatically encodes the newly emerging system state and acts as a perfect local multioutput predictor for the current system state. Extensive experimental results confirm that the proposed AMGRBF tracker significantly outperforms existing state-of-the-art online multioutput regression methods as well as deep-learning-based models, in terms of adaptive modeling accuracy and online computational complexity.

RGS1 mediates renal interstitial fibrosis through activation of the inflammatory response

Renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF) is considered as a common pathway for all patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) to progress to end-stage kidney disease (ESRD). The basic pathological manifestation is the increase of matrix component in the tubular interstitium, while the injury of tubular epithelial cells in the renal interstitium and the excessive accumulation of matrix will eventually lead to tubular atrophy and obstruction, loss of effective renal units, and finally impaired renal filtration function. The relevant mechanism of RIF remains unclear. The present study will investigate the function and relevant mechanism of RGS1 in RIF. The RIF-related microarrays GSE22459 and GSE76882 were downloaded and analyzed. Renal parenchymal atrophic calyx tissues were collected from clinical RIF patients. Cellular inflammation, fibrosis and animal RIF models were constructed using Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), TGF-β1 and unilateral ureteral occlusion (UUO). HE and Masson staining were performed to detect morphological alterations of renal tissue samples. qRT-PCR, Western blot and ELISA were carried out to detect the expression of relevant genes/proteins. RGS1 is a gene co-differentially expressed by GSE22459 and GSE76882. RGS1 expression was elevated in renal tissues of RIF patients, cells and animal RIF models. Knockdown of RGS1 inhibited renal cell inflammatory response, fibrosis and renal fibrosis in RIF mice. Overexpression of RGS1 plays the opposite role. Knockdown of RGS1 inhibited the inflammatory response in the RIF cell and mouse model. Targeting RGS1 might be a potential therapeutic strategy for RIF treatment.

Pro-inflammatory markers are associated with response to sequential pharmacotherapy in major depressive disorder: a CAN-BIND-1 report

OBJECTIVE

There is limited literature on associations between inflammatory tone and response to sequential pharmacotherapies in major depressive disorder (MDD).

METHODS

In a 16-week open-label clinical trial, 211 participants with MDD were treated with escitalopram 10-20 mg daily for 8 weeks. Responders continued escitalopram while non-responders received adjunctive aripiprazole 2-10 mg daily for 8 weeks. Plasma levels of pro-inflammatory markers-C-reactive protein, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-17, interferon-gamma (IFN)-Γ, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and Chemokine C-C motif ligand-2 (CCL-2)-measured at baseline, and after 2, 8 and 16 weeks were included in logistic regression analyzes to assess associations between inflammatory markers and treatment response.

RESULTS

Pre-treatment IFN-Γ and CCL-2 levels were significantly associated with a lower of odds of response to escitalopram at 8 weeks. Increases in CCL-2 levels from weeks 8 to 16 in escitalopram non-responders were significantly associated with higher odds of non-response to adjunctive aripiprazole at week 16.

CONCLUSION

Higher pre-treatment levels of IFN-Γ and CCL-2 were associated with non-response to escitalopram. Increasing levels of these pro-inflammatory markers may be associated with non-response to adjunctive aripiprazole. These findings require validation in independent clinical populations.

Connection between oxidative stress and subcellular organelle in subarachnoid hemorrhage: Novel mechanisms and therapeutic implications

Spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is one of the most devastating forms of stroke, with limited treatment modalities and poor patient outcomes. Previous studies have proposed multiple prognostic factors; however, relative research on treatment has not yet yielded favorable clinical outcomes. Moreover, recent studies have suggested that early brain injury (EBI) occurring within 72 h after SAH may contribute to its poor clinical outcomes. Oxidative stress is recognized as one of the main mechanisms of EBI, which causes damage to various subcellular organelles, including the mitochondria, nucleus, endoplasmic reticulum (ER), and lysosomes. This could lead to significant impairment of numerous cellular functions, such as energy supply, protein synthesis, and autophagy, which may directly contribute to the development of EBI and poor long-term prognostic outcomes. In this review, the mechanisms underlying the connection between oxidative stress and subcellular organelles after SAH are discussed, and promising therapeutic options based on these mechanisms are summarized.

Quantitative evaluation of retinal and choroidal vascularity in systemic lupus erythematosus by SS-OCT/OCTA

PURPOSE

To evaluate changes in retinal and choroidal vascularity using swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

METHODS

In this prospective, cross-sectional study, 48 SLE patients and 40 healthy control (group HC) participants were included. The SLE patients were divided into two subgroups: patients with SLE with no ocular disease (group I) and patients with SLE with signs of retinopathy (group II). The superficial vessel density (SVD), deep vessel density (DVD), peripapillary retinal vessel densities (pRVD), choroidal thickness (ChT), and choroidal vascularity including total choroidal area (TCA), luminal area (LA), stromal area (SA), and choroidal vascularity index (CVI) were measured using SS-OCT/OCTA. Physical and ophthalmic examinations as well as the assessments of immunological markers were performed. The results of SS-OCT/OCTA were compared between group I, group II, and group HC, while the correlations among the parameters were analyzed.

RESULTS

The SVD, DVD, and pRVD were found to be significantly lower in SLE patients than group HC, especially in SLE patients with signs of retinopathy. ChT were found to be significantly higher in group II. CVI was positively correlated with SVD and DVD in the fovea, as well as the foveal and parafoveal thickness. A significant decrease in SVD and DVD in the fovea among subjects positive for anti-dsDNA antibodies was noted.

CONCLUSIONS

The application of OCTA in the evaluation of microvasculature may be useful in subclinical changes. Retinal microvascular density decreased in patients with SLE with greater severity of SLE. Disturbed retinal circulation was related to SLE disease activity, disease duration, CVI, and being positive for anti-dsDNA antibodies. The study results also suggest that SLE with signs of retinopathy may affect the choroid with increases in LA, SA, TCA, and ChT.

A simple and convenient model combining multiparametric MRI and clinical features to predict tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes in breast cancer

AIM

To develop a simple and convenient method based on multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and clinical features to non-invasively predict tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in breast cancer (BC) and to explore the relationship between TIL levels and disease-free survival (DFS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 172 BC patients were enrolled between November 2017 and June 2021 in this retrospective study. The patients were divided into high (≥10%) and low (<10%) TIL groups. Clinicopathological data were collected. MRI features were reviewed by two radiologists. Predictors associated with TILs were determined by using multivariable logistic regression analyses. Kaplan-Meier survival curves based on TIL levels were used to estimate DFS.

RESULTS

A total of 102 patients with low TILs and 70 patients with high TILs were included in the study. Tumour size (odds ratio [OR], 1.040; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.006, 1.075; p=0.020), apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC; OR, 1.003; 95% CI: 1.001, 1.005; p=0.015), clinical axillary lymph node status (CALNS; OR, 3.222; 95% CI: 1.372,7.568; p=0.007), and enhancement pattern (OR, 0.284; 95% CI: 0.143, 0.563; p<0.001) were independently associated with TIL levels. These features were used in the ALSE model (where A is ADC, L is CALNS, S is size, and E is enhancement pattern). High TILs were associated with better DFS (p=0.016).

CONCLUSION

The ALSE model derived from multiparametric MRI and clinical features could non-invasively predict TIL levels in BC, and high TILs were associated with longer DFS, especially in human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive BC and triple-negative BC (TNBC).

Prevalence and genetic basis of tetracycline resistance in Vibrioparahaemolyticus isolates recovered from food products in Shenzhen, China during 2013 to 2021

Understanding tetracycline resistance in Vibrio parahaemolyticus from food products is crucial for effective control measures against this foodborne pathogen. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence, evolution routes, and mechanism of transmission of tetracycline resistance in Vibrio parahaemolyticus isolates collected from food products in Shenzhen, China. A total of 2342 non-duplicate Vibrio parahaemolyticus were isolated from 3509 food samples during the period 2013-2021. Among these 2342 Vibrio parahaemolyticus strains, 530 (21.37 %) were resistant to tetracycline. These tetracycline-resistant Vibrio parahaemolyticus strains were mainly isolated from shrimp samples, with the highest resistance rate (46.9 %) observed in 2019. Phylogenetic and genomic analyses of 387 isolates carrying the tet genes revealed that five different types of tet genes (tet(34), tet(A), tet(B), tet(M), and tet(E)) were present. The tet(A) gene was the most common (65 % of isolates), while tet(E) and tet(M) genes were only detected in specific years. Although tet(A) is the most commonly detected gene, it only encodes resistance in a low percentage of strains (47/129). On the other hand, the resistance rate is highest in isolates carrying tet(B) (41/55). Interestingly, V. parahaemolyticus carrying the tet genes were not necessarily tetracycline-resistant, and vice versa. A total of six different types of plasmids and two transposable units were found to carry the tet genes. V. parahaemolyticus strains that harbored these plasmids were often resistant to multiple antibiotics, indicating that horizontal transfer of antibiotic resistance genes is common among V. parahaemolyticus strains. Our findings suggest a high prevalence of tetracycline resistance in Vibrio parahaemolyticus strains recovered from food products in Shenzhen, China. These results provide valuable insight into the evolution and transmission of tetracycline resistance in foodborne Vibrio parahaemolyticus isolates and highlight the need for effective control measures to prevent the spread of antibiotic resistance.

Effect of L-4-Thiazolylalanine (Protinol™) on skin barrier strength and skin protection

OBJECTIVES

Skin barrier properties are critical for maintaining epidermal water content, protecting from environmental factors and providing the first line of defense against pathogens. In this study, we investigated the non-proteinogenic amino acid L-4-Thiazolylalanine (L4) as a potential active ingredient in skin protection and barrier strength.

METHODS

L4 on wound healing, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties were evaluated using monolayers and 3D skin equivalents. The transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) value was used in vitro as a strong indicator of barrier strength and integrity. Clinical L4 efficacy was assessed for the evaluation of the skin barrier integrity and soothing benefits.

RESULTS

In vitro treatments of L4 show beneficial effects in wound closure mechanism, and we demonstrate that L4 anti-oxidant benefits with markedly increased HSP70 and decreased reactive oxygen species production induced by UVs exposure. Barrier strength and integrity were significantly improved by L4, confirmed clinically by an increase in 12R-lipoxygenase enzymatic activity in the stratum corneum. In addition, soothing benefits of L4 have been shown clinically with the decrease in redness after methyl nicotinate application on the inner arm and the significant reduction of the erythema and the skin desquamation on the scalp.

CONCLUSION

L4 delivered multiple skin benefits by strengthening the skin barrier, accelerating the skin repair process as well as soothing the skin and the scalp with anti-inflammaging effects. The observed efficacy validates L4 as a desirable skincare ingredient for topical treatment.

Peptide-Mimicking Poly(2-oxazoline)s Possessing Potent Antifungal Activity and BBB Penetrating Property to Treat Invasive Infections and Meningitis

Invasive fungal infections, including meningitis, cause a high mortality rate due to few available antifungal drugs and frequently associated side effects and quick emergence of drug-resistant fungi. The restrictive permeability of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) further limits the efficacy of antifungal agents substantially in treating meningitis. Hereby, we design and synthesize guanidinium-functionalized poly(2-oxazoline)s by mimicking cell-penetrating peptides. The optimal polymer, PGMeOx10 bearing a methylene spacer arm, displays potent activities against the drug-resistant fungi and biofilm, negligible toxicity, and insusceptibility to antimicrobial resistance. Moreover, PGMeOx10 can break BBB retractions to exert promising antifungal functions in the brain. PGMeOx10 demonstrates potent in vivo antifungal therapeutic efficacy in mouse models including skin infection, systemic infections, and meningitis. PGMeOx10 effectively rescues infected mice and reduces fungal burden and inflammation in the brain. These results and the excellent biosafety of poly(2-oxazoline)s indicate the effectiveness and potential of our strategy to design promising antifungal agents in treating systemic infections and meningitis.

One-Step Method for Fabricating Janus Aramid Nanofiber/MXene Nanocomposite Films with Improved Joule Heating and Thermal Camouflage Properties

The integration of ultraflexible and mechanically robust films with electric heaters and camouflage technology provides a promising platform for the development of wearable devices, especially for aerospace and military applications. Herein, we present a facile and efficient one-step vacuum-assisted filtration method for fabricating Janus films based on aramid nanofibers (ANF) and Ti3C2Tx (MXene). The ANF/MXene nanocomposite film exhibits remarkable properties, including high conductivity (23809.5 S/m), excellent mechanical strength (102.54 MPa), and outstanding thermal stability (575 °C). Most notably, the Janus ANF/MXene composite film demonstrates superior Joule heating performance with a low driving voltage (1-5 V), high heating temperature (30-276 °C), and rapid response time (within 5 s). Additionally, the film exhibits effective thermal camouflage (72 °C for objects with temperatures above 163 °C) and excellent electromagnetic interference shielding properties (SSE/t = 32475.6 dB cm2/g). These results demonstrate that Janus ANF/MXene films possess a unique combination of thermal camouflage, Joule heating, and electromagnetic interference shielding properties, making them highly promising for wearable devices, high-performance electrical heating, infrared stealth, and security protection applications.

Review on Pediatric Malignant Focal Liver Lesions with Imaging Evaluation: Part I

Malignant focal liver lesions (FLLs) are commonly reported in adults but rarely seen in the pediatric population. Due to the rarity, the understanding of these diseases is still very limited. In children, most malignant FLLs are congenital. It is very important to choose appropriate imaging examination concerning various factors. This paper will outline common pediatric malignant FLLs, including hepatoblastoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, and cholangiocarcinoma and discuss them against the background of the latest knowledge on comparable/similar tumors in adults. Medical imaging features are of vital importance for the non-invasive diagnosis and follow-up of treatment of FLLs in pediatric patients. The use of CEUS in pediatric patients for characterizing those FLLs that remain indeterminate on conventional B mode ultrasounds may be an effective option in the future and has great potential to be integrated into imaging algorithms without the risk of exposure to ionizing radiation.

Synergistic Modulation of In-Situ Hybrid Interface Construction and pH Buffering Enabled Ultra-Stable Zinc Anode at High Current Density and Areal Capacity

In aqueous electrolytes, the uncontrollable interfacial evolution caused by a series of factors such as pH variation and unregulated Zn2+ diffusion would usually result in the rapid failure of metallic Zn anode. Considering the high correlation among various triggers that induce the anode deterioration, a synergistic modulation strategy based on electrolyte modification is developed. Benefitting from the unique pH buffer mechanism of the electrolyte additive and its capability to in situ construct a zincophilic solid interface, this synergistic effect can comprehensively manage the thermodynamic and kinetic properties of Zn anode by inhibiting the pH variation and parasitic side reactions, accelerating de-solvation of hydrated Zn2+ , and regulating the diffusion behavior of Zn2+ to realize uniform Zn deposition. Thus, the modified Zn anode can achieve an impressive lifespan at ultra-high current density and areal capacity, operating stably for 609 and 209 hours at 20 mA cm-2 , 20 mAh cm-2 and 40 mA cm-2 , 20 mAh cm-2 , respectively. Based on this exceptional performance, high loading Zn||NH4 V4 O10 batteries can achieve excellent cycle stability and rate performance. Compared with those previously reported single pH buffer strategies, the synergistic modulation concept is expected to provide a new approach for highly stable Zn anode in aqueous zinc-ion batteries.

Integration of risk variants from GWAS with SARS-CoV-2 RNA interactome prioritizes FUBP1 and RAB2A as risk genes for COVID-19

The role of host genetic factors in COVID-19 outcomes remains unclear despite various genome-wide association studies (GWAS). We annotate all significant variants and those variants in high LD (R2 > 0.8) from the COVID-19 host genetics initiative (HGI) and identify risk genes by recognizing genes intolerant nonsynonymous mutations in coding regions and genes associated with cis-expression quantitative trait loci (cis-eQTL) in non-coding regions. These genes are enriched in the immune response pathway and viral life cycle. It has been found that host RNA binding proteins (RBPs) participate in different phases of the SARS-CoV-2 life cycle. We collect 503 RBPs that interact with SARS-CoV-2 RNA concluded from in vitro studies. Combining risk genes from the HGI with RBPs, we identify two COVID-19 risk loci that regulate the expression levels of FUBP1 and RAB2A in the lung. Due to the risk allele, COVID-19 patients show downregulation of FUBP1 and upregulation of RAB2A. Using single-cell RNA sequencing data, we show that FUBP1 and RAB2A are expressed in SARS-CoV-2-infected upper respiratory tract epithelial cells. We further identify NC_000001.11:g.77984833C>A and NC_000008.11:g.60559280T>C as functional variants by surveying allele-specific transcription factor sites and cis-regulatory elements and performing motif analysis. To sum up, our research, which associates human genetics with expression levels of RBPs, identifies FUBP1 and RAB2A as two risk genes for COVID-19 and reveals the anti-viral role of FUBP1 and the pro-viral role of RAB2A in the infection of SARS-CoV-2.

Observation of Single-Top-Quark Production in Association with a Photon Using the ATLAS Detector

This Letter reports the observation of single top quarks produced together with a photon, which directly probes the electroweak coupling of the top quark. The analysis uses 139  fb^{-1} of 13 TeV proton-proton collision data collected with the ATLAS detector at the Large Hadron Collider. Requiring a photon with transverse momentum larger than 20 GeV and within the detector acceptance, the fiducial cross section is measured to be 688±23(stat) _{-71}^{+75}(syst)  fb, to be compared with the standard model prediction of 515_{-42}^{+36}  fb at next-to-leading order in QCD.

Development and validation of a predictive model for early diagnosis of neonatal acute respiratory distress syndrome based on the Montreux definition

Objective

Based on the Montreux definition, we aim to develop and validate a predictive model for the early diagnosis of neonatal acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

Methods

A retrospective analysis of clinical data on 198 neonates with respiratory distress from January 2018 to January 2022 was conducted. Neonates meeting Montreux definition were classified as ARDS group (n = 79), while the rest were non-ARDS group (n = 119). Univariate analysis identified indicators for neonatal ARDS, followed by logistic regression to construct a predictive model for early diagnosis. The ability of predictors and models to predict neonatal ARDS was evaluated using area under the curve (AUC), and model performance was estimated through bootstrap resampling.

Results

Maternal prenatal fever, abnormal fetal heart beat, meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF), white blood cell (WBC), absolute neutrophil count (ANC), neutrophil percentage (NE%), platelet count (PLT), C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), creatine kinase (CK), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), serum calcium (Ca) and sodium (Na)exhibited significant differences between the ARDS group and the non-ARDS group (P < 0.05). MSAF (OR=5.037; 95% CI: 1.523-16.657; P < 0.05), ANC (OR = 1.324; 95% CI: 1.172-1.495; P < 0.05), PLT (OR = 0.979; 95% CI: 0.971-0.986; P < 0.05), Ca (OR = 0.020; 95% CI: 0.004-0.088; P < 0.05) emerged as independent risk factors for the development of ARDS. The respective AUC values for MSAF, ANC, PLT, Ca, and the combined prediction models were 0.606, 0.691, 0.808, 0.761 and 0.931. Internal validation showed that the C-index for the model was 0.931.

Conclusions

Early application of the model combining MSAF, ANC, PLT and Ca may have a good predictive effect on the early diagnosis of neonatal ARDS.

Comparative study about ozonation to treat Microcystis-laden source water at the development and maintenance stage

The outbreak of toxic cyanobacteria blooms is hazardous to water safety. Ozonation has been used to treat cyanobacteria-laden source water. Generally, cyanobacterial blooms enter into a long-term maintenance stage from the bloom development, but how the changed bloom stage affects ozonation is still unknow. Herein, influences of ozonation on cell inactivation and microcystin removal of Microcystis at the development and maintenance stage, were investigated. Then, ozonation-assisted coagulation for Microcystis removal at the two stages was compared. Results showed no significant difference in the photosynthetic inactivation of Microcystis at both stages. Microcystis at the maintenance stage exhibited a lower loss of membrane integrity (268-480 M-1 s-1) than that at the development stage (413-596 M-1 s-1). However, the extracellular microcystin increased by 30-410% at the maintenance stage at a lower ratio of [O3: DOC] (0.10-0.80) compared to the development stage (0.21-1.68), mainly ascribed to a decrease in the ozonation efficiency for microcystin removal. This finding might result from the elevated biomass and N-containing organics as competitors to reduce microcystin ozonation. Meanwhile, it was possible to generate fewer hydroxyl radicals to oxidize microcystin at the maintenance stage than that at the development stage. Besides, the removal ratio of Microcystis after ozonation-assisted coagulation, was reduced by 46-230% at the maintenance stage, due to the insufficient modification of cellular surface or elevated organics of 3-30 kDa. This work indicated that ozonation is effective to treat Microcystis at the development stage of a bloom whist pre-ozonation might be an inappropriate choice at the long-term maintenance stage.

Force-Loaded Cementocytes Regulate Osteoclastogenesis via S1P/S1PR1/Rac1 Axis

Orthodontically induced inflammatory root resorption (OIIRR) is the major iatrogenic complication of orthodontic treatment, seriously endangering tooth longevity and impairing masticatory function. Osteoclasts are thought to be the primary effector cells that initiate the pathological process of OIIRR; however, the cellular and molecular mechanisms responsible for OIIRR remain unclear. Our previous studies revealed that cementocytes, the major mechanically responsive cells in cementum, respond to compressive stress to activate and influence osteoclasts locally. For this study, we hypothesized that the sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) signaling pathway, a key mechanotransduction pathway in cementocytes, may regulate osteoclasts under the different magnitudes of either physiologic compressive stress that causes tooth movement or pathologic stress that causes OIIRR. Here, we show a biphasic effect of higher compression force stimulating the synthesis and secretion of S1P, whereas lower compression force reduced signaling in IDG-CM6 cementocytes. Using conditioned media from force-loaded cementocytes, we verified the cell-to-cell communication between cementocytes and osteoclasts and show that selective knockdown of S1PR1 and Rac1 plays a role in cementocyte-driven osteoclastogenesis via the S1P/S1PR1/Rac1 axis. Most importantly, the use of inhibitors of this axis reduced or prevented the pathological process of OIIRR. The intercellular communication mechanisms between cementocytes and osteoclasts may serve as a promising therapeutic target for OIIRR.

Triple-negative breast cancer: predictive model of early recurrence based on MRI features

AIM

To develop an integrated model based on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features for predicting early recurrence in patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Women with TNBC who underwent breast MRI and surgery between 2009 and 2019 were evaluated retrospectively. Two breast radiologists reviewed MRI images independently based on the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System Lexicon (BI-RADS), and classified the breast oedema scores on T2-weighted imaging (WI) as no oedema, peritumoural oedema, prepectoral oedema, or subcutaneous oedema. The relationship between disease-free survival (DFS) and MRI features was analysed by Cox regression, and a nomogram model was generated based on the results.

RESULTS

150 patients with TNBC were included and divided into a training cohort (n=78) and validation cohort (n=72). MRI features including subcutaneous oedema and rim enhancement showed a tendency to worsen DFS in univariate analysis. Multivariate analysis showed that subcutaneous oedema (p=0.049, HR [95% confidence interval {CI} = 8.24 [1.01-67.52]) and rim enhancement (p=0.016, HR [95% CI] = 4.38 [1.32-14.54]) were independent predictors for DFS. In the nomogram, the areas under the curves (AUCs) of the training cohort was 0.808, and that of the validation cohort was 0.875.

CONCLUSION

The presence of subcutaneous oedema or rim enhancement on preoperative breast MRI was shown to be a good predictor of poor survival outcomes in patients with TNBC.

Enhancing activity of food protein-derived peptides: An overview of pretreatment, preparation, and modification methods

Food protein-derived peptides have garnered considerable attention due to their potential bioactivities and functional properties. However, the limited activity poses a challenge in effective utilization aspects. To overcome this hurdle, various methods have been explored to enhance the activity of these peptides. This comprehensive review offers an extensive overview of pretreatment, preparation methods, and modification strategies employed to augment the activity of food protein-derived peptides. Additionally, it encompasses a discussion on the current status and future prospects of bioactive peptide applications. The review also addresses the standardization of mass production processes and safety considerations for bioactive peptides while examining the future challenges and opportunities associated with these compounds. This comprehensive review serves as a valuable guide for researchers in the food industry, offering insights and recommendations to optimize the production process of bioactive peptides.

The miR-224-5p/SIRT3/AMPK/mTOR axis is involved in the melatonin-mediated inhibition of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis by activating autophagy

Melatonin has been shown to exert an inhibitory effect on osteoporosis. This study investigates the function of the miR-224-5p/SIRT3/AMPK/mTOR axis in melatonin-mediated effects against osteoporosis. Human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) were treated with glucocorticoid dexamethasone to induce an in vitro osteoporosis model. After melatonin treatment, miR-224-5p and SIRT3 levels were measured by RT‒PCR. Transmission electron microscopy and immunofluorescence were conducted for evaluating autophagy. Western blotting was carried out to determine the expression of osteogenesis-related proteins (Runx2, OSX, OPN, and OCN), SIRT3-AMPK-mTOR axis, and autophagy-related markers (LC3 and p62). Alizarin red staining was used to measure matrix mineralization. The data showed that melatonin inhibited dexamethasone-induced osteoporosis in vitro, and enhanced autophagic levels (as indicated by increased LC3 puncta, LC3II/I ratio, and autophagic vacuoles). In terms of the mechanisms, melatonin decreased miR-224-5p expression and increased SIRT3. SRIT3 was shown to be a direct target of miR-224-5p. miR-224-5p upregulation or SIRT3 downregulation reversed the effects of melatonin on osteoporosis and suppressed autophagy. Additionally, miR-224-5p inhibited SIRT3 expression and AMPK pathway activation. In summary, we discovered that melatonin suppressed glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis and autophagy inhibition via the miR-224-5p/SIRT3/AMPK/mTOR axis.

Identification of a novel RSRC1-ALK (R6: A20) fusion using next-generation sequencing technique

Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) fusion showed promising responses to ALK tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). In this study, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), immunohistochemistry (IHC), next generation sequencing (NGS) and Sanger sequencing were performed to identify the presence of ALK fusion, to investigate whether the patient may benefit from TKI therapy. Postoperative pathological analysis indicated invasive adenocarcinoma with mainly mucinous type and partial micropapillary type in left lower lung. Minimally invasive adenocarcinoma was seen in left upper lung, with mainly acinar type. NGS detected a novel RSRC1-ALK (R6: A20) fusion in left lower lobe sample, which was presented as the fusion of exon 6 of RSRC1 and exon 20 of ALK gene. Sanger sequencing validated the fusion. Break rearrangement signal of ALK gene was detected in 80% of tumor cells. Immunohistochemistry showed ALK positive expression in lung. For the treatment, the patient received ensartinib hydrochloride with a dose of 225 mg per day. He was in a state of progression-free survival for at least 24 months in follow-up with no complications. NGS can be used for exploring treatment options for NSCLC patients with ALK fusion.

Emergence of high-level tigecycline resistance due to the amplification of a tet(A) gene variant in clinical carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the prevalence of a tet(A) gene variant and its role in developing high-level tigecycline resistance among carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) clinical isolates.

METHODS

The mechanism of high-level tigecycline resistance in CRKP mediated by a tet(A) variant was explored by induction experiments, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, whole-genome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. The amplification and overexpression of the tet(A) variant were measured by the determination of sequencing depth, gene copy numbers, and qRT-PCR.

RESULTS

A high rate (62.1%, 998/1607) of tet(A) variant carriage was observed among 1607 CRKP clinical isolates from Henan Province, China. High-level tigecycline resistance could rapidly develop by the amplification of the tet(A) variant in these isolates. The analysis of the raw sequencing data and the plasmid mapping depth revealed that the ΔtnpA homologous sequence of Tn1721 supports the amplification of the region that harbours the tet(A) variant by forming a large number of repeat arrays through translocatable units (TUs). Moreover, the epidemiological analysis of tet(A) variant-carrying structures among 1607 clinical CRKPs showed that the TU structure is widely present.

CONCLUSION

The presence of a tigecycline resistance-mediating tet(A) variant in CRKP clinical isolates represents a greater health concern than initially thought and should be monitored consistently.

Efficacy and safety of anti-programmed cell death protein 1 antibody combination therapy in patients with advanced experienced epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor-resistant lung adenocarcinoma: a retrospective cohort study

Background

The effectiveness of combining anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and chemotherapy has been evaluated as superior to that of chemotherapy alone in the patients with advanced epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI)-resistant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In this study the efficacy and safety of anti-PD-1 combination therapy were evaluated retrospectively in patients who experienced EGFR-TKI-resistant with advanced lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), with the goal of providing helpful guidance for clinical application.

Methods

The clinical results of patients with incurable LUAD who received anti-PD-1 antibody combined with or without anti-angiogenic or chemotherapy after EGFR-TKI therapy failure were collected. The efficacy was calculated based on the objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). The efficacy of the regimes was compared according to treatment groups and programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression.

Results

The final analysis included a total of 43 patients with advanced EGFR-mutant LUAD. The overall cohort had an ORR of 23.3%, median PFS (mPFS) of 6.5 months, and median OS (mOS) of 10.6 months. No notable distinction was observed in mPFS and mOS among patients receiving three types of anti-PD-1 antibody combination therapies. Patients with positive PD-L1 expression showed a longer mPFS compared to patients with negative PD-L1 expression. No statistical difference was detected in terms of mPFS between the use of immune combination chemotherapy and immune combination anti-angiogenic therapy in the PD-L1 positive subgroup, and PFS was prolonged regardless of the PD-L1 expression status being positive or negative in the population receiving immune combination chemotherapy. Treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) of grade 3 or higher were observed in 16.3% of patients, including chemotherapy-containing immunotherapy. No deaths resulting from immune-related adverse events (irAEs) were reported, and only 1 patient receiving immunotherapy plus chemotherapy had to discontinue treatment due to irAEs.

Conclusions

Combination immunotherapy is feasible in post-TKI resistant individuals with LUAD harboring EGFR mutations. Immune combination chemotherapy and immune combination anti-angiogenic therapy have equivalent efficacy in the PD-L1 positive population. PD-L1 expression can be used as a reference for screening candidates for combination immunotherapy.