[Clinical manifestations and genetic analysis of 4 patients with variants of FBN1 gene]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the genetic basis for four patients suspected for Marfan syndrome (MFS).

METHODS

Four male patients with suspected MFS and their family members who were treated at West China Second Hospital of Sichuan University from September 12, 2019 to March 27, 2021 were selected as the study subjects. Peripheral venous blood samples were collected from the patients and their parents or other pedigree members for the extraction of genomic DNA. Whole exome sequencing was carried out, and candidate variants were validated by Sanger sequencing. The pathogenicity of the variants was determined based on the guidelines from the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG).

RESULTS

Genetic testing revealed that all four patients have harbored variants of the FBN1 gene, including c.430_433del (p.His144fs) deletional variant in exon 5, c.493C>T (p.Arg165*) nonsense variant in exon 6, c.5304_5306del (p.Asp1768del) deletional variant in exon 44 and c.5165C>G (p.Ser1722Cys) missense variant in exon 42. According to the ACMG guidelines, the c.430_433del and c.493C>T were classified as pathogenic variants (PVS1+PM2_Supporting+PP4; PVS1+PS1+PS2+PM2_Supporting+PP4). c.5304_5306del and c.5165C>G were classified as likely pathogenic variants (PS2+PM2_Supporting+PM4+PP4; PS2_Moderate+PS1+PM1+PM2_Supporting).

CONCLUSION

The c.430_433del and c.5304_5306del variants of the FBN1 gene identified in this study were unreported previously. Above results have enriched the variation spectrum of the FBN1 gene and provided a basis for genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis of patients with MFS and acromicric dysplasia.

[Cardiac amyloidosis: pathological classification and clinical analysis of 48 cases]

Objective: To investigate the histological features and clinical manifestations in different types of cardiac amyloidosis to improve diagnostic accuracy. Methods: The histopathological features and clinical manifestations of 48 patients diagnosed with cardiac amyloidosis by Congo red stain and electron microscopy through endomyocardial biopsy were collected in West China Hospital of Sichuan University from January 2018 to December 2021. Immunohistochemical stains for immunoglobulin light chains (κ and λ) and transthyretin protein were carried out, and a review of literature was made. Results: The patients age ranged from 42 to 79 years (mean 56 years) and the male to female ratio was 1.1 to 1.0. The positive rate of endomyocardial biopsy was 97.9% (47/48), which was significantly higher than that of the abdominal wall fat (7/17). Congo red staining and electron microscopy were positive in 97.9% (47/48) and 93.5% (43/46), respectively. Immunohistochemical stains showed 32 cases (68.1%) were light chain type (AL-CA), including 31 cases of AL-λ type and 1 case of AL-κ type; 9 cases (19.1%) were transthyretin protein type (ATTR-CA); and 6 cases (12.8%) were not classified. There was no significant difference in the deposition pattern of amyloid between different types (P>0.05). Clinical data showed that ATTR-CA patients had less involvement of 2 or more organs and lower N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) than the other type patients (P<0.05). The left ventricular stroke volume and right ventricular ejection fraction of ATTR-CA patients were better than the other patients (P<0.05). Follow-up data of 45 patients was obtained, and the overall mean survival time was 15.6±2.0 months. Univariate survival analysis showed that ATTR-CA patients had a better prognosis, while cardiac amyloidosis patients with higher cardiac function grade, NT-proBNP >6 000 ng/L, and troponin T >70 ng/L had a worse prognosis (P<0.05). Multivariate survival analysis showed that NT-proBNP and cardiac function grade were independent prognostic factors for cardiac amyloidosis patients. Conclusions: AL-λ is the most common type of cardiac amyloidosis in this group. Congo red staining combined with electron microscopy can significantly improve the diagnosis of cardiac amyloidosis. The clinical manifestations and prognosis of each type are different and can be classified based on immunostaining profile. However, there are still a few cases that cannot be typed; hence mass spectrometry is recommended if feasible.

High-Sensitivity, Low-Field 19F-MRI Approach Using High Manganese Ferrite Concentrations

Fluorine-19 (¹⁹F) MRI (¹⁹F-MRI) is a promising method for quantifying biomedical research and clinical applications without background interference. Nevertheless, dependency on high-field MRI systems limits the applicability of ¹⁹F-MRI. Low-field MRI systems are more common than high-field MRI systems. Hence, developing ¹⁹F-MRI at low-field MRI devices can promote the ¹⁹F-MRI translation in medical diagnosis. The detection sensitivity of fluorine agents is critical in ¹⁹F-MRI. Reduction of the ¹⁹F spin-lattice relaxation time (T₁) enables an improved detection sensitivity while requiring ultrashort echo time (UTE) imaging methods to reduce the negative spin-spin relaxation (T₂) decay effect. However, conventional UTE sequences require hardware with high performance. Herein, we introduce the k-space scaling imaging (KSSI) MRI sequence that accomplishes sampling k-space with variable scales to implement hardware-friendly UTE ¹⁹F-MRI compatible with low-field MRI systems. We implemented experiments with swine bone, a perfluorooctyl bromide (PFOB) phantom, and one tumor-bearing mouse on two self-customized low-field MRI systems. The swine bone imaging validated the ultrashort TE of KSSI. Under high concentrations of manganese ferrite, a high signal-to-noise ratio was shown in the imaging of a fluorine atom concentration of 658 mM, which indicated high-sensitivity detection of KSSI. Moreover, the KSSI sequence exhibited a 7.1 times signal-to-noise ratio of spin echo sequence on the PFOB phantom imaging with a fluorine atom concentration of 3.29 M. Additionally, the various concentrations of the PFOB phantom imaging revealed quantifiable capacity. Finally, the ¹H/¹⁹F imaging was implemented with KSSI on one tumor-bearing mouse. This method provides the potential for clinical translation of fluorine probes at low-field MRI systems.

[Risk predictive models of healthcare-seeking delay among imported malaria patients in Jiangsu Province based on the machine learning]

OBJECTIVE

To create risk predictive models of healthcare-seeking delay among imported malaria patients in Jiangsu Province based on machine learning algorithms, so as to provide insights into early identification of imported malaria cases in Jiangsu Province.

METHODS

Case investigation, first symptoms and time of initial diagnosis of imported malaria patients in Jiangsu Province in 2019 were captured from Infectious Disease Report Information Management System and Parasitic Disease Prevention and Control Information Management System of Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention. The risk predictive models of healthcare-seeking delay among imported malaria patients were created with the back propagation (BP) neural network model, logistic regression model, random forest model and Bayesian model using thirteen factors as independent variables, including occupation, species of malaria parasite, main clinical manifestations, presence of complications, severity of disease, age, duration of residing abroad, frequency of malaria parasite infections abroad, incubation period, level of institution at initial diagnosis, country of origin, number of individuals travelling with patients and way to go abroad, and time of healthcare-seeking delay as a dependent variable. Logistic regression model was visualized using a nomogram, and the nomogram was evaluated using calibration curves. In addition, the efficiency of the four models for prediction of risk of healthcare-seeking delay among imported malaria patients was evaluated using the area under curve (AUC) of receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC). The importance of each characteristic was quantified and attributed by using SHAP to examine the positive and negative effects of the value of each characteristic on the predictive efficiency.

RESULTS

A total of 244 imported malaria patients were enrolled, including 100 cases (40.98%) with the duration from onset of first symptoms to time of initial diagnosis that exceeded 24 hours. Logistic regression analysis identified a history of malaria parasite infection [odds ratio (OR) = 3.075, 95% confidential interval (CI): (1.597, 5.923)], long incubation period [OR = 1.010, 95% CI: (1.001, 1.018)] and seeking healthcare in provincial or municipal medical facilities [OR = 12.550, 95% CI: (1.158, 135.963)] as risk factors for delay in seeking healthcare among imported malaria cases. BP neural network modeling showed that duration of residing abroad, incubation period and age posed great impacts on delay in healthcare-seek among imported malaria patients. Random forest modeling showed that the top five factors with the greatest impact on healthcare-seeking delay included main clinical manifestations, the way to go abroad, incubation period, duration of residing abroad and age among imported malaria patients, and Bayesian modeling revealed that the top five factors affecting healthcare-seeking delay among imported malaria patients included level of institutions at initial diagnosis, age, country of origin, history of malaria parasite infection and individuals travelling with imported malaria patients. ROC curve analysis showed higher overall performance of the BP neural network model and the logistic regression model for prediction of the risk of healthcare-seeking delay among imported malaria patients (Z = 2.700 to 4.641, all P values < 0.01), with no statistically significant difference in the AUC among four models (Z = 1.209, P > 0.05). The sensitivity (71.00%) and Youden index (43.92%) of the logistic regression model was higher than those of the BP neural network (63.00% and 36.61%, respectively), and the specificity of the BP neural network model (73.61%) was higher than that of the logistic regression model (72.92%).

CONCLUSIONS

Imported malaria cases with long duration of residing abroad, a history of malaria parasite infection, long incubation period, advanced age and seeking healthcare in provincial or municipal medical institutions have a high likelihood of delay in healthcare-seeking in Jiangsu Province. The models created based on the logistic regression and BP neural network show a high efficiency for prediction of the risk of healthcare-seeking among imported malaria patients in Jiangsu Province, which may provide insights into health management of imported malaria patients.

A network analysis of subjective well-being in Chinese high school students

BACKGROUND

The psychological situation of high school students during adolescence is not promising, and the most obvious manifestation is the lack of subjective well-being (SWB). This network analysis presents a model of the interaction and correlation between different items of SWB, identifying the most central items for high school students.

METHODS

Through offline and online surveys, 4,378 questionnaires were sent out and finally 4,282 Chinese high school students were available. The response rate was 97.807%. The study used the eLASSO method to estimate the network structure and centrality measures. This algorithm used the EBIC to select the best neighbor factor for each node.

RESULTS

The average age for high school students was 16.320 years old and the average SWB score was 76.680. The distribution of SWB between male and female students was significant different (P < 0.001). S8 (Have you been anxious, worried, or upset) was the node with the highest strength and expected influence. The network structure and centrality remained stable after discarding 75% of the sample at random. Except for S15 (How concerned or worried about your health have you been), all nodes were positively correlated with each other (P < 0.01). The network structure of SWB was similar for female and male students (network strength: 8.482 for male participants; 8.323 for female participants; P = 0.159), as well as for rural and urban students (network strength: 8.500 for rural students; 8.315 for urban students; P = 0.140).

CONCLUSION

Targeting S8 (Have you been anxious, worried, or upset) as a potential intervention target may increase high school students' SWB effectively.

A Turn-On Fluorescence Sensor Based on Nitrogen-Doped Carbon Dots and Cu2+ for Sensitively and Selectively Sensing Glyphosate

Glyphosate has excellent herbicidal activity, and its extensive use may induce residue in the environment and enter into humans living through the food chain, causing negative impact. Here, water-soluble 1.55 nm size nitrogen-doped carbon quantum dots (NCDs) with strong blue fluorescence were synthesized using sodium citrate and adenine. The maximum excitation and emission wavelengths of NCDs were 380 nm and 440 nm, respectively. The above synthesized NCDs were first used for the construction of a fluorescence sensor for glyphosate detection. It was found that Cu²⁺ could quench the fluorescence of NCDs effectively through the photoinduced electron transfer (PET) process, which was confirmed using fluorescence lifetime measurements. Additionally, the fluorescence was restored with the addition of glyphosate. Hence, a sensitive turn-on fluorescence sensor based on NCDs/Cu²⁺ for glyphosate analysis was developed. The LODs of glyphosate for water and rice samples were recorded as 0.021 μg/mL and 0.049 μg/mL, respectively. The sensor was applied successfully for ultrasensitive and selective detection of glyphosate in environmental water and rice samples with satisfied recoveries from 82.1% to 113.0% using a simple sample pretreatment technique. The proposed strategy can provide a significant potential for monitoring glyphosate residue in water and agricultural product samples.

Association between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and periodontal disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objectives

Studies have suggested contradictory results on the relationship between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and periodontal disease (PD). The aim of this study was to determine whether PD increased the risk of COPD and COPD-related clinical events.

Design

A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Data sources

PubMed, Ovid EMBASE and Ovid CENTRAL were searched from inception to 22 February 2023.

Eligibility criteria for studies

We included trials and observational studies evaluating association of PD with the risk of COPD or COPD-related events (exacerbation and mortality), with statistical adjustment for smoking.

Data extraction and synthesis

Two investigators independently extracted data from selected studies using a standardised Excel file. Quality of studies was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. OR with 95% CI was pooled in a random-effect model with inverse variance method.

Results

22 observational studies with 51 704 participants were included. Pooled analysis of 18 studies suggested that PD was weakly associated with the risk of COPD (OR: 1.20, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.32). However, in stratified and subgroup analyses, with strict adjustment for smoking, PD no longer related to the risk of COPD (adjusting for smoking intensity: OR: 1.14, 95% CI 0.86 to 1.51; smokers only: OR: 1.46, 95% CI 0.92 to 2.31; never smokers only: OR: 0.93, 95% CI 0.72 to 1.21). Moreover, PD did not increase the risk of COPD-related exacerbation or mortality (OR: 1.18, 95% CI 0.71 to 1.97) in the pooled result of four studies.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates PD confers no risk for COPD and COPD-related events when strictly adjusted by smoking. Large-scale prospective cohort studies with control of potential confounding factors are warranted to validate the present findings.

Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking and Molecular Dynamics to Explore the Potential Immunomodulatory Mechanisms of Deer Antler

The use of deer antlers dates back thousands of years in Chinese history. Deer antlers have antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties and can be used in treating neurological diseases. However, only a few studies have reported the immunomodulatory mechanism of deer antler active compounds. Using network pharmacology, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulation techniques, we analyzed the underlying mechanism by which deer antlers regulate the immune response. We identified 4 substances and 130 core targets that may play immunomodulatory roles, and the beneficial and non-beneficial effects in the process of immune regulation were analyzed. The targets were enriched in pathways related to cancer, human cytomegalovirus infection, the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, human T cell leukemia virus 1 infection, and lipids and atherosclerosis. Molecular docking showed that AKT1, MAPK3, and SRC have good binding activity with 17 beta estradiol and estrone. Additionally, the molecular dynamics simulation of the molecular docking result using GROMACS software (version: 2021.2) was performed and we found that the AKT1-estrone complex, 17 beta estradiol-AKT1 complex, estrone-MAPK3 complex, and 17 beta estradiol-MAPK3 complex had relatively good binding stability. Our research sheds light on the immunomodulatory mechanism of deer antlers and provides a theoretical foundation for further exploration of their active compounds.

The metabolism and dissipation behavior of tolfenpyrad in tea: A comprehensive risk assessment from field to cup

The metabolites of pesticides usually require rational risk assessment. In the present study, the metabolites of tolfenpyrad (TFP) in tea plants were identified using UPLC-QToF/MS analysis, and the transfer of TFP and its metabolites from tea bushes to consumption was studied for a comprehensive risk assessment. Four metabolites, PT-CA, PT-OH, OH-T-CA, and CA-T-CA, were identified, and PT-CA and PT-OH were detected along with dissipation of the parent TFP under field conditions. During processing, 3.11-50.00 % of TFP was further eliminated. Both PT-CA and PT-OH presented a downward trend (7.97-57.89 %) during green tea processing but an upward trend (34.48-124.17 %) during black tea manufacturing. The leaching rate (LR) of PT-CA (63.04-101.03 %) from dry tea to infusion was much higher than that of TFP (3.06-6.14 %). As PT-OH was no longer detected in tea infusions after 1 d of TFP application, TFP and PT-CA were taken into account in the comprehensive risk assessment. The risk quotient (RQ) assessment indicated a negligible health risk, but PT-CA posed a greater potential risk than TFP to tea consumers. Therefore, this study provides guidance for rational TFP application and suggests the sum of TFP and PT-CA residues as the maximum residual limit (MRL) in tea.

Inhibition of Retinoic Acid Signaling in Proximal Tubular Epithelial cells Protects against Acute Kidney Injury by Enhancing Kim-1-dependent Efferocytosis

Retinoic acid receptor (RAR) signaling is essential for mammalian kidney development, but in the adult kidney is restricted to occasional collecting duct epithelial cells. We now show there is widespread reactivation of RAR signaling in proximal tubular epithelial cells (PTECs) in human sepsis-associated acute kidney injury (AKI), and in mouse models of AKI. Genetic inhibition of RAR signaling in PTECs protects against experimental AKI but is associated with increased expression of the PTEC injury marker, Kim-1. However, Kim-1 is also expressed by de-differentiated, proliferating PTECs, and protects against injury by increasing apoptotic cell clearance, or efferocytosis. We show that the protective effect of inhibiting PTEC RAR signaling is mediated by increased Kim-1 dependent efferocytosis, and that this is associated with de-differentiation, proliferation, and metabolic reprogramming of PTECs. These data demonstrate a novel functional role that reactivation of RAR signaling plays in regulating PTEC differentiation and function in human and experimental AKI.

Graphical abstract

"Three-in-one" platform based on Fe-CDs nanozyme for dual-mode/dual-target detection and NIR-assisted bacterial killing

As nanozymes, carbon dots (CDs) have attracted increasing attention due to their remarkable properties. Besides general enzyme activity, their photoluminescence and photothermal properties have been explored rarely, whereas their synergistic effects might produce CDs-based nanozymes of high performance. Here, iron-doped CDs (Fe-CDs) with tunable fluorescence and enhanced peroxidase-like activity were designed to develop a novel "three-in-one" multifunctional platform to provide dual-mode/dual-target detection and near infrared (NIR)-assisted antibacterial ability. This proposed strategy for a H₂O₂ test exhibited a wide linear relationship with a low limit of detection (LOD) of 0.16 μM (colorimetric) and 0.14 μM (ratiometric fluorescent). Furthermore, due to the nature of cholesterol being oxidized to H₂O₂ by cholesterol oxidase, sensitive and selective detection of cholesterol was realized, and the LOD was 0.42 μM (colorimetric) and 0.27 μM (ratiometric fluorescent), surpassing that reported previously. This result suggested that Fe-CDs could be used for dual-mode quantification of large family of H₂O₂-producing metabolites, thereby paving the way for developing multi-mode sensing strategies based on nanozymes. Moreover, this platform showed synergistic effects for antibacterial application, indicating great prospects for bacterial killing as well as wound disinfection and healing. Hence, this platform could contribute to the construction of multifunctional CDs with high performance.

Efficacy and safety of antifibrotic agents in the treatment of CTD-ILD and RA-ILD: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The clinical spectrum of connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease (CTD-ILD) and rheumatoid arthritis-associated interstitial lung disease (RA-ILD) ranges from asymptomatic findings on radiographic imaging to a rapidly progressive illness leading to respiratory failure and death. The treatment is always challenging due to the paucity of proven effective treatments. Nintedanib and pirfenidone are recently approved antifibrotics in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of antifibrotic agents in the treatment of CTD-ILD and RA-ILD.

METHODS

Relevant databases were searched for randomized controlled trials that compared pirfenidone or nintedanib with placebo in patients with CTD-ILD and RA-ILD. The primary outcome was the change in forced vital capacity (FVC). The odds ratio or risk ratio with 95% confidence interval (CI) was estimated for categorical data, and the mean difference with 95% CI was estimated for continuous data. The I² statistic was used to assess heterogeneity, and meta-analysis was performed when possible.

RESULTS

Ten studies with a total of 880 participants met the inclusion criteria. Of these, four studies were included in the meta-analysis. According to the pooled result, the annual decline of FVC was significantly decreased in the antifibrotic agent arm compared to that in the placebo arm (MD 70.58 mL/yr, 95% CI 40.55 to 100.61).

CONCLUSION

This review suggests a potential benefit and safety of antifibrotic treatment in slowing the decline of FVC in patients with CTD-ILD and RA-ILD. Further large-sample, random-controlled, high-quality trials are needed to provide more evidence in the decision-making regarding the use of antifibrotics in this group of patients.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO; No.: CRD42022369112; URL: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/.

Neural basis of the attention bias during addiction stroop task in methamphetamine-dependent patients with and without a history of psychosis: an ERP study

Background

Attentional bias plays an important role in sustaining various types of drug addiction. No prior studies examined methamphetamine (MA)-associated psychosis (MAP) relationships between ERP time course and performance on an addiction Stroop task in MA abusers. The aim of the present study was to determine whether MA abusers with (MAP+) or without (MAP-) psychosis exhibit alterations of the ERP during the addiction Stroop task.

Methods

Thirty-one healthy controls (CTRL), 14 MAP-, and 24 MAP+ participants were recruited and completed the addiction Stroop task during EEG recording using 32 electrodes. Group variations were compared on measures of behavioral task performance and event-related potentials (ERP) of performance monitoring (N200, P300, N450). The Barratt impulsiveness scores were analyzed to investigate correlations with ERP changes.

Results

MA-related word stimulus elicited a more negative N200 amplitude over left-anterior electrodes in MAP- abusers; furthermore, a positive association between the N200 amplitude and Barratt attentional scores and non-planning scores was observed, while no such differences were found in MAP+ abusers. There were no significant differences in reaction time (RT) and error rate between each group.

Conclusion

This is the first study to examine psychosis relationships between ERP time course and performance on an addiction Stroop task in MA abusers with or without psychosis. These findings support the association between attentional bias measured by the MA addiction Stroop task and N200 component as well as indicate the possibility of using this cognitive task in combination with ERP technology to detect psychosis factors among abstinent MA abusers.

Trends in estrogen and progesterone receptors in prostate cancer: a bibliometric analysis

Introduction

The bibliometric analysis aims to identify research trends in estrogen receptor (ERs) and progesterone receptor (PRs) in prostate cancer (PCa), and also discuss the hotspots and directions of this field.

Methods

835 publications were sourced from the Web of Science database (WOS) from 2003 to 2022. Citespace, VOSviewer, and Bibliometrix were used for the bibliometric analysis.

Results

The number of published publications increased in early years, but declined in the last 5 years. The United States was the leading country in citations, publications, and top institutions. Prostate and Karolinska Institutet were the most publications of journal and institution, respectively. Jan-Ake Gustafsson was the most influential author based on the number of citations/publications. The most cited paper was "Estrogen receptors and human disease" by Deroo BJ, published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation. The most frequently used keywords were PCa (n = 499), gene-expression (n = 291), androgen receptor (AR) (n = 263), and ER (n = 341), while ERb (n = 219) and ERa (n = 215) further emphasized the importance of ER.

Conclusions

This study provides useful guidance that ERa antagonists, ERb agonists, and the combination of estrogen with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) will potentially serve as a new treatment strategy for PCa. Another interesting topic is relationships between PCa and the function and mechanism of action of PRs subtypes. The outcome will assist scholars in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the current status and trends in the field, and provide inspiration for future research.

[Research on the establishment of standard limits for perfluorooctanoic acid and perfluorooctane sulfonate in the "Standards for Drinking Water Quality（GB5749-2022）"in China]

Perfluorinated compounds, especially Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), are widely detected in water environments in China. Considering the potential health risks of drinking water exposure routes, PFOA and PFOS have been added to the water quality reference index of the newly issued "Standards for Drinking Water Quality (GB5749-2022)", with limit values of 40 and 80 ng/L, respectively. This study analyzed and discussed the relevant technical contents for determining the limits of the hygiene standard, including the environmental existence level and exposure status of PFOA and PFOS, health effects, derivation of safety reference values, and determination of hygiene standard limits. It also proposed prospects for the future direction of formulating drinking water standards.

[Research on the determination of the limit value of perchlorate in the "Standards for Drinking Water Quality（GB5749-2022）" in China]

Perchlorate is an environmental pollutant that has been a focus of attention in recent years. It has been detected in many environmental water bodies and drinking water in China, with a high level of presence in some areas of the Yangtze River Basin. The human body may ingest perchlorate through exposure pathways such as drinking water and food, and its main health effect is to affect the thyroid's absorption of iodine. The "Standards for Drinking Water Quality" (GB5749-2022) includes perchlorate as an expanded indicator of water quality, with a limit value of 0.07 mg/L. This article analyzes the technical content related to the determination of hygiene standard limits for perchlorate in drinking water, including the environmental presence level and exposure status of perchlorate, main health effects, derivation of safety reference values, and determination of hygiene standard limits.

Hexabromocyclododecanes in surface soil-maize system around Baiyangdian Lake in North China: Distribution, enantiomer-specific accumulation, transport, temporal trend and dietary risk

This study investigated the occurrence of hexabromocyclododecanes (HBCDs) in soil-maize system around Baiyangdian Lake. The total concentration of ΣHBCDs was in the order of industrial area > residential area > marginal area > Fuhe River estuary in soil. γ-HBCD was predominated in soils, roots and stems, while α-HBCD was the main diastereoisomer in leaves and kernels. Concentration of ΣHBCDs and three diastereoisomer concentrations in soils were significantly reduced and remained low level from 2018 to 2019. Selectivity enrichment of (+)α- and (-)γ-HBCD was found in soils, roots, stems and leaves, whereas only (+)β-HBCD dominated in stems. Most of the total root bioaccumulation factors (ΣRCFs) were less than 1.0, but no significant correlation was showed between translocation factors (TFs) and log K_ow. RCFs and TFs of enantiomers suggested (-)β- and (-)γ-HBCD were easily translocated from soil to roots, while (+)α-, (-)β- and (-)γ-HBCD tended to translocate from stems to leaves. Estimated daily intake (EDI) and of ΣHBCDs, diastereoisomers and enantiomers were all lower than the threshold value, while the Calculated margins of exposure (MOE) were well above the threshold value, which demonstrate the safe consumption of Maize around Baiyangdian Lake.

Assessment of genetic diversity and population structure of Neocaridina denticulata sinensis in the Baiyangdian drainage area, China, using microsatellite markers and mitochondrial cox1 gene sequences

Neocaridina denticulata sinensis is a crustacean of major economic significance in the Baiyangdian drainage area. In this study, the first assessment of N. denticulata sinensis genetic diversity and population structure was performed based on sequence analysis of nine polymorphic microsatellite loci and the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (cox1) gene. Samples (n = 192) were collected from four different regions in the Baiyangdian drainage area i.e., Baiyangdian Lake, Jumahe River, Xidayang Reservoir, and Fuhe River. Microsatellite loci analysis identified high levels of genetic diversity represented by observed heterozygosity (Ho) of 0.6865∼0.9583, expected heterozygosity (He) of 0.7151∼0.8723, and polymorphism information content (PIC) of 0.6676∼0.8585. Based on the analysis of cox1 sequences, haplotype diversity (Hd) ranged from 0.568 to 0.853 while nucleotide diversity (π) ranged from 0.0029 to 0.2236. Furthermore, there was no evidence of expansion events in the N. denticulata sinensis populations. Pairwise F_ST revealed pronounced genetic differentiation, and clustering analyses showed defined genetic structures within the N. denticulata sinensis population. Three groups were identified from four sampled stocks, with Xidayang reservoir, and Fuhe river populations clustered in the same group. This work identified novel molecular markers and provided an important reference to guide management strategies to assist conservation of N. denticulata sinensis resources.

Nano-Econazole Enhanced PD-L1 Checkpoint Blockade for Synergistic Antitumor Immunotherapy against Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma

Insufficienct T lymphocyte infiltration and unresponsiveness to immune checkpoint blockade therapy are still major difficulties for the clinical treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Although econazole has shown promise in inhibiting PDAC growth, its poor bioavailability and water solubility limit its potential as a clinical therapy for PDAC. Furthermore, the synergistic role of econazole and biliverdin in immune checkpoint blockade therapy in PDAC remains elusive and challenging. Herein, a chemo-phototherapy nanoplatform is designed by which econazole and biliverdin can be co-assembled (defined as FBE NPs), which significantly improve the poor water solubility of econazole and enhance the efficacy of PD-L1 checkpoint blockade therapy against PDAC. Mechanistically, econazole and biliverdin are directly released into the acidic cancer microenvironment, to activate immunogenic cell death via biliverdin-induced PTT/PDT and boost the immunotherapeutic response of PD-L1 blockade. In addition, econazole simultaneously enhances PD-L1 expression to sensitize anti-PD-L1 therapy, leading to suppression of distant tumors, long-term immune memory effects, improved dendritic cell maturation, and tumor infiltration of CD8⁺ T lymphocytes. The combined FBE NPs and α-PDL1 show synergistic antitumor efficacy. Collectively, FBE NPs show excellent biosafety and antitumor efficacy by combining chemo-phototherapy with PD-L1 blockade, which has promising potential in a precision medicine approach as a PDAC treatment strategy.

A systematic pharmacology-based in vivo study to reveal the effective mechanism of Yupingfeng in asthma treatment

BACKGROUND

The clinical effect of Yupingfeng (YPF) has been confirmed in asthma patients, however, it lacks a study to verify its pharmacological mechanism.

HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE

To reveal the molecular basis and potential pharmacological mechanism of YPF in the treatment of asthma.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

First, a systems pharmacology-based method integrating pharmacokinetic screening, target prediction, network analyses, GO and KEGG analyses were used for the systematic deciphering of the mechanism of YPF in asthma. Second, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between asthma patients and healthy controls were identified by GEO2R online tool. Third, based on systems pharmacology and DEGs results, molecular docking was performed utilizing the Discovery Studio 2020 Client version to detect the binding capacity between compounds and targets. Finally, ovalbumin (OVA)-challenged C57BL/6 mice were treated with YPF or its effective compound to assess the predictions.

RESULTS

A total of 35 active compounds were filtered out, with 87 potential targets being identified for further analysis after target fishing and matching. Quercetin, kaempferol, and wogonin were identified as the main ingredients in YPF. The signaling pathways of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT), tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and IL-17 were identified as the top signaling pathways in KEGG enrichment analysis. GEO2R tools of NCBI discovered five DEGs that overlapped with the therapeutic targets of YPF. Wogonin was proven to be the top active compound in YPF through the results of molecular docking. In vivo experiments indicated that YPF and wogonin significantly attenuated airway resistance and lung inflammation by decreasing the levels of inflammatory cytokines and key factors in PI3K/AKT, IL-17, and TNF signaling pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

YPF and its main active compound wogonin may exert some therapeutic effects on asthma inflammation through multiple molecular targets and signaling pathways including PI3K/AKT, IL-17 and TNF-α.

Detection of Severe Murine Typhus by Nanopore Targeted Sequencing, China

We report a case of murine typhus in China caused by Rickettsia typhi and diagnosed by nanopore targeted sequencing of a bronchoalveolar lavage fluid sample. This case highlights that nanopore targeted sequencing can effectively detect clinically unexplained infections and be especially useful for detecting infections in patients without typical signs and symptoms.

Lyn-mediated glycolysis enhancement of microglia contributes to neuropathic pain through facilitating IRF5 nuclear translocation in spinal dorsal horn

The pro-inflammatory phenotype of microglia usually induces neuroinflammatory reactions in neuropathic pain. Glycometabolism shift to glycolysis can promote the pro-inflammatory phenotype transition of microglia. The omics data analysis suggest a critical role for Lyn dysregulation in neuropathic pain. The present study aimed at exploring the mechanism of Lyn-mediated glycolysis enhancement of microglia in neuropathic pain. Neuropathic pain model was established by chronic constriction injury (CCI), then pain thresholds and Lyn expression were measured. Lyn inhibitor Bafetinib and siRNA-lyn knockdown were administrated intrathecally to evaluate the effects of Lyn on pain thresholds, glycolysis and interferon regulatory factor 5 (IRF5) nuclear translocation of microglia in vivo and in vitro. ChIP was carried out to observe the binding of transcription factors SP1, PU.1 to glycolytic gene promoters by IRF5 knockdown. Finally, the relationship between glycolysis and pro-inflammatory phenotype transition of microglia was evaluated. CCI led to the upregulation of Lyn expression and glycolysis enhancement in microglia of spinal dorsal horn. Bafetinib or siRNA-lyn knockdown intrathecally alleviated pain hyperalgesia, suppressed glycolysis enhancement and inhibited nuclear translocation of IRF5 in CCI mice. Also, IRF5 promoted the binding of transcription factors SP1, PU.1 to glycolytic gene promoters, and then the enhanced glycolysis facilitated the proliferation and pro-inflammatory phenotype transition of microglia and contributed to neuropathic pain. Lyn-mediated glycolysis enhancement of microglia contributes to neuropathic pain through facilitating IRF5 nuclear translocation in spinal dorsal horn.

Comparative effectiveness and safety of antibiotic prophylaxis during induction chemotherapy in children with acute leukaemia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Bacterial infections are common during induction therapy in children and adolescents with acute leukaemia and may cause infection-related mortality.

AIM

To determine the efficacy and safety of prophylactic antibiotics in paediatric patients with acute leukaemia receiving induction chemotherapy.

METHODS

From three English databases and four Chinese databases, we searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies that compared prophylactic antibiotics to placebo, no prophylaxis, or that compared one antibiotic versus another in paediatric patients with acute leukaemia undergoing induction chemotherapy. Two reviewers independently screened the studies, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias using Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 tool and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, and the certainty of evidence using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE).

FINDINGS

Two RCTs and ten cohort studies were finally included. For children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, antibiotic prophylaxis, including levofloxacin, sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim, or other antibiotics, probably reduced bacteraemia (risk ratio (RR): 0.44; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.33-0.60; moderate certainty) without significantly increasing Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) or invasive fungal infection. Levofloxacin reduced the CDI rate (RR: 0.08; 95% CI: 0.01-0.62; high certainty). Ciprofloxacin prophylaxis probably reduced infection-related mortality (RR: 0.12; 95% CI: 0.01-0.97; moderate certainty). In children with acute myeloid leukaemia, ciprofloxacin plus vancomycin may reduce febrile neutropenia (RR: 0.79; 95% CI: 0.66-0.94; low certainty). Individual studies indicated that prophylaxis increased antibiotic exposure but reduced non-preventive antibiotic exposure.

CONCLUSION

In children with acute leukaemia undergoing induction therapy, antibiotic prophylaxis may improve the bacterial infection and mortality.

Frequency specificity in the amplitude of low frequency oscillations in patients with white matter lesions

Previous studies have reported that patients with white matter lesions (WMLs) have abnormal spontaneous brain activity in the resting state. However, the spontaneous neuronal activity of specific frequency bands in WMLs patients is unknown. Here, we included 16 WMLs patients and 13 gender and age-matched healthy controls (HCs) underwent resting-state magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) scan and studied the specificity of the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (ALFF) in WMLs patients in the slow-5 (0.01-0.027 Hz), slow-4 (0.027-0.073 Hz), and typical (0.01-0.08 Hz) frequency bands. In addition, ALFF values of different frequency bands were extracted as classification features and support vector machines (SVM) were used to classify WMLs patients. In all three frequency bands, significant increases in ALFF values in WMLs patients were observed in the cerebellum. In the slow-5 band, the ALFF values of the left anterior cingulate and paracingulate gyri (ACG), and the right precentral gyrus, rolandic operculum and inferior temporal gyrus in WMLs patients were lower than those in HCs. In the slow-4 band, ALFF values were lower in WMLs patients than in HCs at the left ACG, the right median cingulate and paracingulate gyri, parahippocampal gyrus, caudate nucleus, and the bilateral lenticular nucleus, putamen. In the SVM classification model, the classification accuracy of slow-5, slow-4 and typical frequency bands is 75.86%, 86.21% and 72.41%, respectively. The results indicate that the ALFF abnormalities in WMLs patients have frequency specificity, and the ALFF abnormalities in the slow-4 frequency band may serve as imaging markers for WMLs.

Efficacy and safety of autologous platelet-rich plasma for diabetic foot ulcer healing: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

The occurrence of a diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a significant complication of diabetes that often precedes the need for amputation. Autologous platelet-rich plasma (Au-PRP), a substance abundant in various growth factors and cytokines, is increasingly being recognized as a promising method for promoting ulcer healing due to its potential similarities to the physiological wound healing process.

METHODS

The databases Medline, EMBASE, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library were systematically accessed on January 26, 2023, without any consideration for the date of publication. The selection and assessment of research studies were conducted autonomously, based on predetermined criteria and methodological standards. Two researchers gathered data and evaluated the potential for bias separately. We utilize the Stata 17.0 software to conduct data analysis and generate relevant visual representations.

RESULTS

The results of the meta-analysis indicate that autologous PRP has a significant positive effect on the healing rate (RR = 1.42, 95% CI 1.30-1.56, P < 0.001), reduces the healing time (MD = - 3.13, 95% CI - 5.86 to - 0.39, P < 0.001), accelerates the reduction of ulcer area (MD = 1.02, 95% CI 0.51-1.53, P < 0.001), decreases the rate of amputation (RR = 0.35, 95% CI 0.15-0.83, P < 0.001), and does not increase the incidence of adverse events (RR = 0.96, 95% CI 0.57-1.61, P > 0.05) when compared to conventional therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Au-PRP therapy has been shown to facilitate the process of wound healing and represents a viable and secure therapeutic alternative for individuals with DFU.

A N/S co-doped free-standing carbon electrode derived from waste facial masks for anti-freezing flexible quasi-solid-state supercapacitors

A cost-effective N/S co-doped carbon cloth has been synthesized by pyrolysis of waste facial masks as robust free-standing electrodes with high capacitance for assembling anti-freezing flexible quasi-solid-state supercapacitors with high energy and good adaptability at low temperatures of -20 °C.

Characteristics of amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations in the resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging of alcohol-dependent patients with depression

The high comorbidity of alcohol use disorder and depressive disorder is associated with poor patient prognosis. The mechanisms underlying this comorbidity, however, are largely unknown. By applying the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations parameter in resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging, this study investigated changes in the brain functioning of alcohol-dependent patients with and without depression. Alcohol-dependent patients (n = 48) and healthy controls (n = 31) were recruited. The alcohol-dependent patients were divided into those with and without depression, according to Patients Health Questionnaire-9 scores. Amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations in resting-state brain images were compared among the alcohol-dependent patients with depression, alcohol-dependent patients without depression, and healthy controls groups. We further examined associations between amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations alterations, alcohol-dependence severity, and depressive levels (assessed with scales). Compared with the healthy controls group, both alcohol groups showed amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations enhancement in the right cerebellum and amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations abatement in the posterior central gyrus. The alcohol-dependent patients with depression group had higher amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations in the right cerebellum than the alcohol-dependent patients without depression group. Additionally, we observed a positive correlation between amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations value and Patients Health Questionnaire-9 score in the right superior temporal gyrus in the alcohol-dependent patients with depression group. Alcohol-dependent subjects showed abnormally increased spontaneous neural activity in the right cerebellum, which was more significant in alcohol-dependent patients with depression. These findings may support a targeted intervention in this brain location for alcohol and depressive disorder comorbidity.

Immunology of SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination

Comprehensive elucidation of humoral immune responses to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and vaccination is critical for understanding coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pathogenesis in general and developing antibody-based diagnostic and therapeutic strategies specifically. Following the emergence of SARS-CoV-2, significant scientific research has been conducted worldwide using omics, sequencing and immunologic approaches. These studies have been critical to the successful development of vaccines. Here, the current understanding of SARS-CoV-2 immunogenic epitopes, humoral immunity to SARS-CoV-2 structural proteins and non-structural proteins, SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies, and T-cell responses in convalescents and vaccinated individuals are reviewed. Additionally, we explore the integrated analysis of proteomic and metabolomic data to examine mechanisms of organ injury and identify potential biomarkers. Insight into the immunologic diagnosis of COVID-19 and improvements of laboratory methods are highlighted.

Proteolysis-targeting chimeras in biotherapeutics: Current trends and future applications

The success of inhibitor-based therapeutics is largely constrained by the acquisition of therapeutic resistance, which is partially driven by the undruggable proteome. The emergence of proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology, designed for degrading proteins involved in specific biological processes, might provide a novel framework for solving the above constraint. A heterobifunctional PROTAC molecule could structurally connect an E3 ubiquitin ligase ligand with a protein of interest (POI)-binding ligand by chemical linkers. Such technology would result in the degradation of the targeted protein via the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS), opening up a novel way of selectively inhibiting undruggable proteins. Herein, we will highlight the advantages of PROTAC technology and summarize the current understanding of the potential mechanisms involved in biotherapeutics, with a particular focus on its application and development where therapeutic benefits over classical small-molecule inhibitors have been achieved. Finally, we discuss how this technology can contribute to developing biotherapeutic drugs, such as antivirals against infectious diseases, for use in clinical practices.

Discrimination of Chinese green tea according to tea polyphenols using fluorescence sensor array based on Tb (III) and Eu (III) doped Zr (IV) metal-organic frameworks

A facile and rapid fluorescence sensor array based on Tb (III) and Eu (III) doped Zr (IV) metal-organic frameworks was proposed for Chinese green tea discrimination. According to large porosity of Tb@UiO-66-(COOH)₂ and Eu@UiO-66-(COOH)₂, phenolic hydroxyl groups of tea polyphenols could coordinate with free carboxylic acid groups and was captured into the pores, which led to the disturbance of electronic structure of ligand and inhibited the energy transfer efficiency from ligand to Tb (III) and Eu (III) center, causing the fluorescence quenching effect. Based on Hierarchy Cluster Analysis and Linear Discrimination Analysis, the fluorescence sensor array was employed for successful tea polyphenols classification through the analysis of different fluorescence quenching effect to tea polyphenols. Green tea samples within different categories and grades were also successfully discriminated using this assay according to tea polyphenols, providing a new method for Chinese green tea identification.

Reactive oxygen species-responsive nanocarrier ameliorates murine colitis by intervening colonic innate and adaptive immune responses

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic or relapsing inflammatory disease with limited therapeutic outcomes. Pterostilbene (PSB) is a polyphenol-based anti-oxidant that has received extensive interest for its intrinsic anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative activities. This work aims to develop a reactive oxygen species (ROS)-responsive, folic acid (FA)-functionalized nanoparticle (NP) for efficient PSB delivery to treat UC. The resulting PSB@NP-FA had a nano-scaled diameter of 231 nm and a spherical shape. With ROS-responsive release and ROS-scavenging properties, PSB@NP could effectively scavenge H2O2, thereby protecting cells from H2O2-induced oxidative damage. After FA modification, the resulting PSB@NP-FA could be internalized by RAW 264.7 and Colon-26 cells efficiently and preferentially localized to the inflamed colon. In dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis models, PSB@NP-FA showed a prominent ROS-scavenging capacity and anti-inflammatory activity, therefore relieving murine colitis effectively. Mechanism results suggested that PSB@NP-FA ameliorated colitis by regulating dendritic cells (DCs), promoting macrophage polarization, and regulating T cell infiltration. Both innate and adaptive immunity were involved. More importantly, the combination of the PSB and dexamethasone (DEX) enhanced the therapeutic efficacy of colitis. This ROS-responsive and ROS-scavenging nanocarrier represents an alternative therapeutic approach to UC. It can also be used as an enhancer for classic anti-inflammatory drugs.

The Effect of Low-Frequency Electrical Stimulation Combined With Anus Lifting Training on Urinary Incontinence After Radical Prostatectomy in a Chinese Cohort

To evaluate the clinical efficacy of pelvic floor low-frequency electrical stimulation combined with anus lifting training in the treatment of urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy in a Chinese cohort. Fifty-five patients with urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy were randomly divided into treatment group and control group. Patients in control group received only anus lifting training therapy, while treatment group combined with pelvic floor low-frequency electrical stimulation. The urinary control including urinary incontinence questionnaire (ICI-Q-SF), urinary incontinence quality of life (I-QOL), visual analogue scale (VAS), and pelvic floor muscle strength assessment (Glazer) of the two groups of patients before treatment and every week was recorded for statistical analysis. There was a statistically significant difference between treatment group and control group in the urinary control curve. The scores of ICI-Q-SF, I-QOL, VAS, and Glazer in the treatment group after 2 weeks were statistically different from those before treatment, and effects were accumulating with the extension of treatment time. Compared with the control group, the scores of treatment group in the 2 to 10 weeks improved more significantly. Especially, in the sixth week, total effective rate of treatment group was significantly better than that of control group (74.07% [20/27], 35.71% [10/28], p < .05). The difference between two groups gradually narrowed after 10 weeks and no significant difference after 10 weeks of treatment between two groups. Pelvic floor low-frequency electrical stimulation combined with anus lifting training after radical prostatectomy can significantly shorten the recovery time of urinary incontinence in patients after radical prostatectomy.

Cloning of the promoter of rice brown planthopper feeding-inducible gene OsTPS31 and identification of related cis-regulatory elements

BACKGROUND

Brown planthopper (BPH; Nilaparvata lugens) is one of the most serious pests of rice in the world. Insect-resistant genetic engineering is a very effective technology to control BPH. The promoters and cis-regulatory elements inducible by plant-feeding insects are critical for genetic engineering of insect-resistant crops.

RESULTS

In this study, we cloned a promoter Ptps31 and a 7 bp cis-regulatory sequence that up-regulated downstream genes induced by BPH feeding. The promoter of OsTPS31 (Ptps31) unresponsive to physical damage but responsive to BPH feeding was cloned and functionally verified. The results showed that expression of the OsBPH14 gene driven by the promoter region from -510 to -246 bp in rice could significantly improve the resistance to BPH. The promoter region from -376 to -370 bp (TAGTGTC) was identified as a cis-regulatory sequence related to BPH feeding induction of downstream gene expression.

CONCLUSION

The findings provide a new promoter and a new cis-regulatory sequence tool for the research on and application of rice BPH resistance genes, as well as a new perspective for functional analysis of the OsTPS31 gene. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Safety study of moxifloxacin in children with severe refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia

BACKGROUND

With the increase in macrolide-resistant M. pneumoniae infections, off-label use is difficult to avoid. This study assessed the safety of moxifloxacin in pediatric patients with severe refractory M. pneumoniae pneumonia (SRMPP).

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of children with SRMPP between January 2017 and November 2020 at Beijing Children's Hospital. They were divided into the moxifloxacin group and azithromycin group according to whether or not moxifloxacin was used. The clinical symptoms, radiographs of both knees, and cardiac ultrasounds of the children were collected after drug withdrawal for at least 1 year. A multidisciplinary team reviewed all adverse events and determined their relationship with moxifloxacin.

RESULTS

A total of 52 children with SRMPP were included in this study (31 in the moxifloxacin group and 21 in the azithromycin group). In the moxifloxacin group, four patients had arthralgia, one had joint effusion, and seven had heart valve regurgitation. In the azithromycin group, three patients had arthralgia, one had claudication, and one had heart valve regurgitation; no obvious knee abnormalities were observed in the radiographs. No statistically significant differences in clinical symptoms or imaging findings were found between the groups. As for the adverse events, 11 patients in moxifloxacin group were deemed to be doubtfully related and one possibly related to moxifloxacin; in the azithromycin group, four patients were regarded to be doubtfully related to azithromycin and one not related.

CONCLUSION

Moxifloxacin was well tolerated and safe for treating SRMPP in children.

Quantitative phosphoproteome analysis reveals differential whey phosphoproteins of bovine milk during lactation

Whey proteins in bovine milk, as the most widely used nutritional components for infant formulae, have been paid more attention. However, the phosphorylation of proteins in bovine whey during lactation has not been thoroughly researched. In this study, a total of 185 phosphorylation sites on 72 phosphoproteins were identified in bovine whey during lactation. 45 differentially expressed whey phosphoproteins (DEWPPs) in colostrum and mature milk were focused on by bioinformatics approaches. Gene Ontology annotation indicated that blood coagulation, extractive space, and protein binding played a key role in bovine milk. The critical pathway of DEWPPs was related to the immune system according to KEGG analysis. Our study investigated the biological functions of whey proteins from a phosphorylation perspective for the first time. The results elucidate and increase our knowledge of differentially phosphorylation sites and phosphoproteins in bovine whey during lactation. Additionally, the data might offer fresh insight into the development of whey protein nutrition.

Microswimmer-Based Ultrasensitive Dual-Signal Ratiometric Electrochemical Homogeneous Aptasensor with Functionalized Co-UiO-66 for the Single-Step Detection of HER2 in Whole Blood

The ability to efficiently detect trace disease biomarkers in whole blood remains an enormous challenge. Researchers have paid more attention to the homogeneous electrochemical ratio biosensor due to its self-calibration capability and improved detection accuracy. However, proportional homogeneous electrochemical sensing is difficult to achieve and typically requires functional modification of the electrode or the preparation of complex materials. Herein, a dual-signal ratiometric aptamer homogeneous electrochemical microswimming detection device with active capture capability and one-step detection of human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2) is proposed. The homogeneous electrochemical biosensor is fabricated based on a functionalized nanocomposite double-stranded DNA({single-stranded DNA-ferrocene (Fc)-aptamer})@Co-UiO-66 with catalase properties and adsorptive properties to electroactive toluidine blue (TB) molecules. Encapsulation of Co-UiO-66 material with dsDNA (ssDNA-Fc-Apt) containing HER2 aptamer as a gate switch inhibited its ability to adsorb TB molecules. This functionalized Co-UiO-66 material can catalyze hydrogen peroxide. Using hydrogen peroxide as a fuel, it breaks down to release oxygen bubbles, creating a propulsion force that drives dsDNA(ssDNA-Fc-Apt)@Co-UiO-66 target HER2 through whole blood. When the surface dsDNA (ssDNA-Fc-Apt)@Co-UiO-66 recognizes HER2, a strand displacement reaction occurs, and the ssDNA-Fc is released into solution. The HER2 aptamer is coiled because it targets HER2, and the ability to adsorb TB molecules is restored due to the exposed surface of Co-UiO-66. A certain negative voltage is applied to the ITO electrode, and due to the electrostatic attraction, the TB molecules and ssDNA-Fc are adsorbed and enriched on the surface of the electrode by electrostatic attraction, which produces two strong and oppositely changing electrochemical signals, and the electrochemical signals depend on the HER2 concentration. It can sensitively detect HER2 biomarkers in only 40 min with the detection range of 0.0001-10 ng/mL and detection limits as low as 10 fg/mL. The electrochemical microswimmer for the detection of trace disease biomarkers involves a one-step process of capture, signal change, and detection.

The molecular mechanism of human stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles in retinal repair and regeneration

Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including microvesicles (MVs) and exosomes, play a critical role in metabolic regulation and intracellular communication. Stem cell-derived EVs are considered to have the potential for regeneration, like stem cells, while simultaneously avoiding the risk of immune rejection or tumour formation. The therapeutic effect of stem cell-derived EVs has been proven in many diseases. However, the molecular mechanism of stem cell-derived EVs in retinal repair and regeneration has not been fully clarified. In this review, we described the biological characteristics of stem cell-derived EVs, summarized the current research on stem cell-derived EV treatment in retinal repair and regeneration, and discussed the potential and challenges of stem cell-derived EVs in translational medicine.

Emerging roles of tRNA in cancer

Transfer RNAs (tRNAs) play pivotal roles in the transmission of genetic information, and abnormality of tRNAs directly leads to translation disorders and causes diseases, including cancer. The complex modifications enable tRNA to execute its delicate biological function. Alteration of appropriate modifications may affect the stability of tRNA, impair its ability to carry amino acids, and disrupt the pairing between anticodons and codons. Studies confirmed that dysregulation of tRNA modifications plays an important role in carcinogenesis. Furthermore, when the stability of tRNA is impaired, tRNAs are cleaved into small tRNA fragments (tRFs) by specific RNases. Though tRFs have been found to play vital regulatory roles in tumorigenesis, its formation process is far from clear. Understanding improper tRNA modifications and abnormal formation of tRFs in cancer is conducive to uncovering the role of metabolic process of tRNA under pathological conditions, which may open up new avenues for cancer prevention and treatment.

Hydrogen-bonding topological remodeling modulated ultra-fine bacterial cellulose nanofibril-reinforced hydrogels for sustainable bioelectronics

Bacterial cellulose (BC) with its inherent nanofibrils framework is an attractive building block for the fabrication of sustainable bioelectronics, but there still lacks an effective and green strategy to regulate the hydrogen-bonding topological structure of BC to improve its optical transparency and mechanical stretchability. Herein, we report an ultra-fine nanofibril-reinforced composite hydrogel by utilizing gelatin and glycerol as hydrogen-bonding donor/acceptor to mediate the rearrangement of the hydrogen-bonding topological structure of BC. Attributing to the hydrogen-bonding structural transition, the ultra-fine nanofibrils were extracted from the original BC nanofibrils, which reduced the light scattering and endowed the hydrogel with high transparency. Meanwhile, the extracted nanofibrils were connected with gelatin and glycerol to establish an effective energy dissipation network, leading to an increase in stretchability and toughness of hydrogels. The hydrogel also displayed tissue-adhesiveness and long-lasting water-retaining capacity, which acted as bio-electronic skin to stably acquire the electrophysiological signals and external stimuli even after the hydrogel was exposing to air condition for 30 days. Moreover, the transparent hydrogel could also serve as a smart skin dressing for optical identification of bacterial infection and on-demand antibacterial therapy after combined with phenol red and indocyanine green. This work offers a strategy to regulate the hierarchical structure of natural materials for designing skin-like bioelectronics toward green, low cost, and sustainability.

SPE-UPLC-MS/MS for Determination of 36 Monomers of Alkylphenol Ethoxylates in Tea

Alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEOs) represent a non-ionic surfactant widely used as adjuvants in pesticide formulation, which is considered to cause an endocrine-disrupting effect. In the current study, we established a detection method for the APEOs residue in tea based on solid-phase extraction (SPE) for the simultaneous analysis of nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEOs) and octylphenol ethoxylates (OPEOs) by UPLC-MS/MS. In the spiked concentrations from 0.024 to 125.38 μg/kg for 36 monomers of APEOs (n_EO = 3-20), the recoveries of APEOs range from 70.3-110.7% with RSD ≤ 16.9%, except for OPEO₂₀ (61.8%) and NPEO₂₀ (62.9%). The LOQs of OPEOs and NPEOs are 0.024-6.27 and 0.16-5.01 μg/kg, respectively. OPEOs and NPEOs are detected in 50 marketed tea samples with a total concentration of 0.057-12.94 and 0.30-215.89 µg/kg, respectively. The detection rate and the range of the monomers of NPEOs are generally higher than those of OPEOs. The current study provides a theoretical basis for the rational use of APEOs as adjuvants in commercial pesticide production.

Design of tunnel steel arch looping manipulator with multiple actuators in limited space

In order to overcome the low efficiency, high labor intensity and high risk of steel arch support operations in tunnel boring machines, a steel arch looping manipulator with multiple actuators was designed. Firstly, in order to simplify the complex design requirements of the manipulator, an exponential product model was established to analyze the influence of each single joint on the end output, and the manipulator was decomposed into different modules. The design is carried out separately, layer by layer, in the order of actuator-trunk module-branch module. Then, the optimal manipulator is obtained considering the limited space, equivalent flexibility, and joint control accuracy requirements. Finally, a prototype of the steel arch looping manipulator was manufactured and the feasibility of the manipulator was verified by experiments. The design method can provide a reference for the design of multi-actuator manipulator configuration in limited space.

Association of the CDKAL1 gene polymorphism with gestational diabetes mellitus in Chinese women

INTRODUCTION

To identify the association of the cyclin-dependent kinase 5 regulatory subunit associated protein 1-like 1 (CDKAL1) gene polymorphism with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in the Chinese population.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This case-control study enrolled 835 pregnant women with GDM and 870 pregnant women without diabetes who underwent antenatal examination during 24 to 28 gestational weeks at the Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province from January 15, 2018 to March 31, 2019. Trained nurses collected their clinical information and blood samples. CDKAL1 gene rs10440833, rs10946398, rs4712523, rs4712524, rs7754840, rs7756992 and rs9465871 loci were genotyped by Agena MassARRAY system. SPSS V.26.0 software and online SHesis were used to analyze the relationship between CDKAL1 gene polymorphism and GDM susceptibility.

RESULTS

After being adjusted for maternal age, prepregnancy body mass index (BMI), parity and family history of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), CDKAL1 gene rs10440833 (AA vs TT, OR=1.631, 95% CI 1.192 to 2.232), rs10946398 (CC vs AA, OR=1.400, 95% CI 1.028 to 1.905), rs4712523 (GG vs AA, OR=1.409, 95% CI 1.038 to 1.913), rs4712524 (GG vs AA, OR=1.418, 95% CI 1.043 to 1.929) and rs7754840 (CC vs GG, OR=1.407, 95% CI 1.036 to 1.911) polymorphisms were all associated with the increased risk of GDM. In addition, there was a powerful linkage disequilibrium (LD) among rs10946398, rs4712523, rs4712524 and rs7754840 (D'>0.900, r²>0.900). And there were significant differences in haplotype CGGC (OR=1.207, 95% CI 1.050 to 1.387) and AAAG (OR=0.829, 95% CI 0.721 o 0.952, p=0.008) between the GDM group and the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

rs10440833, rs10946398, rs4712523, rs4712524 and rs7754840 of CDKAL1 gene are associated with GDM susceptibility in central Chinese population.

Comprehensive genome-wide identification and functional characterization of MAPK cascade gene families in Nelumbo

Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade signaling pathway plays pivotal roles in various plant biological processes. However, systematic study of MAPK cascade gene families is yet to be conducted in lotus. Herein, 198 putative MAPK genes, including 152 MAP3Ks, 15 MKKs, and 31 MPKs genes were identified in Nelumbo. Segmental duplication was identified as the predominant factor driving MAPK cascade gene family expansion in lotus. MAPK cascade genes in N. nucifera and N. lutea shared high degree of sequence homologies, with 84, 9, and 19 homologous MAP3K, MKK, and MPK gene pairs being detected between the two species, respectively, with most genes predominantly undergoing purifying selection. Gene expression profiling indicated that NnMAPK cascade genes were extensively involved in plant development and submergence stress response. Co-expression analysis revealed potential interaction between transcription factors (TFs) and NnMAPK cascade genes in various biological processes. NnMKK showed predicted interactions with multiple NnMAP3K or NnMPK proteins, which suggested that functional diversity of MAPK cascade genes could be as a result of their complex protein interaction mechanisms. This first systematic analysis of MAPK cascade families in lotus provides deeper insights into their evolutionary dynamics and functional properties, which potentially could be crucial for lotus genetic improvement.

Entropy-driven dynamic self-assembled DNA dendrimers for colorimetric detection of African swine fever virus

Herein, we subtly engineered an amplified colorimetric biosensor for the cyclic detection of African swine fever virus DNA (ASFV-DNA), which associated the branched catalytic hairpin assembly (bCHA) amplification with G-quadruplex DNAzyme activity through triplex DNA formation. Firstly, a Y-shaped hairpin trimer was constructed for the dynamic self-assembly of DNA dendrimers. Then, in the presence of ASFV-DNA, the signal strand CP was opened, exposing the toehold regions, which would trigger the CHA cascade reaction between hairpin trimers. In the CHA cascade reaction, H1, H2, and H3 opened and bound in sequence, eventually forming the structure of DNA dendrimers. Subsequently, the obtained bCHA product was specifically recognized by the GGG repeat sequences of L1 and L2, then amplified by the synergistic effect of triplex DNA and the formation of asymmetric split G-quadruplex. Benefiting from the amplification properties of bCHA and the high peroxidase-like catalytic activity of asymmetrically split G-quadruplex DNAzymes, it could achieve effective colorimetric signal output in the presence of ASFV-DNA by means of triplex DNA formation. Under the optimal experimental conditions, this biosensor exhibited excellent sensitivity with a detection limit of 1.8 pM. Further, it was applied to the content detection of simulated samples of African swine fever, and the recoveries were 98.9 ~ 103.2%. This method has the advantages of simple operation, good selectivity, and high sensitivity, which is expected to be used for highly sensitive detection of actual samples of African swine fever virus.

Expression and molecular regulation of non-coding RNAs in HPV-positive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the sixth most prevalent malignancy worldwide. Accumulating evidence suggests that persistent HPV infection is closely related to a subset of HNSCC types, and the incidence of human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive HNSCC has been annually increasing in recent decades. Although the carcinogenesis of HPV-positive HNSCC has not been completely elucidated, it has been well confirmed that E6 and E7, the main viral oncoproteins are responsible for the maintenance of malignant transformation, promotion of cell proliferation, and increase in tumor invasion. Moreover, compared with HPV-negative HNSCC, HPV-positive HNSCC shows some special clinical-pathological features, which are possibly related to HPV infection and their specific regulatory mechanisms. Non-coding RNA (ncRNA) is a class of RNA lacking the protein-coding function and playing a critical regulatory role via multiple complex molecular mechanisms. NcRNA is an important regulatory pattern of epigenetic modification, which can exert significant effects on HPV-induced tumorigenesis and progression by deregulating downstream genes. However, the knowledge of ncRNAs is still limited, hence, a better understanding of ncRNAs could provide some insights for exploring the carcinogenesis mechanism and identifying valuable biomarkers in HPV-positive HNSCC. Therefore, in this review, we mainly focused on the expression profile of ncRNAs (including lncRNA, miRNA, and circRNA) and explored their regulatory role in HPV-positive HNSCC, aiming to clarify the regulatory mechanism of ncRNAs and identify valuable biomarkers for HPV-positive HNSCC.

The DNA demethylation-regulated SFRP2 dictates the progression of endometriosis via activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway

Background

Endometriosis cause decreases in life quality and pelvic pain in reproductive-age women. Methylation abnormalities played a functional role in the progression of endometriosis, this study aimed to explore the mechanisms mediated by abnormal methylation in the development of EMS.

Materials and methods

Next-generation sequencing dataset and methylation profiling dataset were used to screen out the key gene SFRP2. Western bolt, Real-time PCR, Aza-2?deoxycytidine treatment, luciferase reporter assay, Methylation-specific PCR , Bisulfite sequencing PCR and lentivirus infection were carried out to detect the methylation status and signaling pathway with the primary epithelial cells. Transwell assay and wound scratch assay were implemented to observe the differences of migration ability with the intervening with the expression of SFRP2.

Results

To define the role of the DNA methylation-regulated genes in the pathogenesis of EMS, we performed both DNA methylomic and expression analyses of ectopic endometrium and ectopic endometrium epithelial cells(EEECs) and found that SFRP2 is demethylated/upregulated in ectopic endometrium and EEECs. The expression of lentivirus carrying SFRP2 cDNA up-regulates the activity of Wnt signaling and the protein expression of ?-catenin in EEECs. SFRP2 impact on the invasion and migration of ectopic endometrium by modulating the activities of the Wnt/?-catenin signaling pathway. The invasion and migration ability of EEECs were significantly strengthened after demethylation treatment including 5-Aza and the knockdown of DNMT1.

Conclusion

In summary, the increased SFRP2 expression-induced Wnt/?-catenin signaling due to the demethylation of the SFRP2 promoter plays an important role in the pathogenesis of EMS, suggesting that SFRP2 might be a therapeutic target for EMS treatment.

[CD5L is elevated in the serum of patients with candidemia and promotes disease progression in mouse models]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the changes of CD5L levels in patients with candidemia and explore the role of CD5L in progression of candidemia.

METHODS

Twenty healthy control individuals, 27 patients with bacteremia and 35 patients with candidemia were examined for serum CD5L levels using ELISA, and the correlations of CD5L level with other serological indicators were analyzed. A C57BL/6 mouse model of candidemia induced by intravenous injection of Candida albicans were treated with intraperitoneal injection of recombinant CD5L protein, and renal histopathological and serological changes were analyzed to assess renal injures. The effects of CD5L treatment on general condition, fungal burden, of survival of the mice were observed, and the changes in serum IL-6 and IL-8 levels of the mice were detected using ELISA.

RESULTS

CD5L levels were significantly elevated in patients with candidemia and positively correlated with WBC, BDG, Scr and PCT levels. The mouse model of candidemia also showed significantly increased serum and renal CD5L levels, and CD5L treatment significantly increased fungal burden in the renal tissue, elevated IL-6 and IL-8 levels in the serum and kidney, aggravated renal tissue damage, and reduced survival rate of candidemia mice.

CONCLUSION

Serum CD5L levels are increased in patients with candidemia, and treatment with CD5L aggravates candidemia in mouse models.