ACL and HAT1 form a nuclear module to acetylate histone H4K5 and promote cell proliferation

Acetyl-CoA utilized by histone acetyltransferases (HAT) for chromatin modification is mainly generated by ATP-citrate lyase (ACL) from glucose sources. How ACL locally establishes acetyl-CoA production for histone acetylation remains unclear. Here we show that ACL subunit A2 (ACLA2) is present in nuclear condensates, is required for nuclear acetyl-CoA accumulation and acetylation of specific histone lysine residues, and interacts with Histone AcetylTransferase1 (HAT1) in rice. The rice HAT1 acetylates histone H4K5 and H4K16 and its activity on H4K5 requires ACLA2. Mutations of rice ACLA2 and HAT1 (HAG704) genes impair cell division in developing endosperm, result in decreases of H4K5 acetylation at largely the same genomic regions, affect the expression of similar sets of genes, and lead to cell cycle S phase stagnation in the endosperm dividing nuclei. These results indicate that the HAT1-ACLA2 module selectively promotes histone lysine acetylation in specific genomic regions and unravel a mechanism of local acetyl-CoA production which couples energy metabolism with cell division.

A randomized trial of eribulin monotherapy versus eribulin plus anlotinib in patients with locally recurrent or metastatic breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Eribulin mesylate is a novel, nontaxane, microtubule dynamics inhibitor. In this study, we assessed the efficacy and safety of eribulin versus eribulin plus the oral small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitor anlotinib in patients with locally recurrent or metastatic breast cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this single-center, open-label, phase II clinical study (NCT05206656) conducted in a Chinese hospital, patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative, locally recurrent or metastatic breast cancer previously treated with anthracycline- or taxane-based chemotherapy were randomized (1 : 1) to receive eribulin alone or in combination with anlotinib. The primary efficacy endpoint was investigator-assessed progression-free survival (PFS).

RESULTS

From June 2020 to April 2022, a total of 80 patients were randomly assigned to either eribulin monotherapy or eribulin plus anlotinib combination therapy, with 40 patients in each group. The data cut-off was 10 August 2022. The median PFS was 3.5 months [95% confidence interval (CI) 2.8-5.5 months] for eribulin and 5.1 months (95% CI 4.5-6.9 months) for eribulin plus anlotinib (hazard ratio = 0.56, 95% CI 0.32-0.98; P = 0.04). The objective response rates were 32.5% versus 52.5% (P = 0.07), respectively, and disease control rates were 67.5% versus 92.5% (P = 0.01), respectively. Patients <50 years of age, with an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status score of 0, visceral metastasis, number of treatment lines of four or more, hormone receptor negative (triple-negative), and HER2 low expression appeared to benefit more from combined treatment. The most common adverse events in both groups were leukopenia (n = 28, 70.0%, patients in the eribulin monotherapy group versus n = 35, 87.5%, patients in the combination therapy group), aspartate aminotransferase elevations (n = 28, 70.0%, versus n = 35, 87.5%), neutropenia (n = 25, 62.5%, versus n = 31, 77.5%), and alanine aminotransferase elevations (n = 25, 62.5%, versus n = 30, 75.0%).

CONCLUSION

Eribulin plus anlotinib can be considered an alternative treatment option for HER2-negative locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer.

Correlation of short-term variation derived from novel ambulatory fetal electrocardiography monitor with computerized cardiotocography

OBJECTIVES

To compare short-term variation (STV) outputs from a novel self-applied non-invasive fetal electrocardiography (NIFECG) device with those obtained on computerized cardiotocography (cCTG). Technological and algorithmic limitations and mitigation strategies were also evaluated.

METHODS

This was a prospective cohort study of women with a singleton pregnancy over 28 + 0 weeks' gestation attending a tertiary London hospital for cCTG assessment between June 2021 and June 2022. Women underwent concurrent monitoring with both NIFECG and cCTG for up to 1 h. Postprocessing of NIFECG data using various filtering methods produced NIFECG-STV (eSTV) values, which were compared with cCTG-STV (cSTV) outputs. Linear correlation, mean bias, precision and limits of agreement were assessed for STV derived by the different methods of computation and mathematical correction.

RESULTS

Overall, 306 concurrent NIFECG and cCTG traces were collected from 285 women. Fully filtered eSTV was correlated very strongly with cSTV (r = 0.911, P < 0.001), but generated results only in 142/306 (46.4%) 1-h traces owing to the removal of traces with lower-quality signals. Partial filtering generated more eSTV data (98.4%), but with a weak correlation with cSTV (r = 0.337, P < 0.001). The difference in STV between the monitors (eSTV - cSTV) increased with signal loss; in traces with > 60% signal loss, the values became highly discrepant. Removal of traces with > 60% signal loss resulted in a stronger correlation with cSTV, while still generating eSTV results for 65% of traces. Correcting these remaining eSTV values for signal loss using linear regression analysis further improved correlation with cSTV (r = 0.839, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The discrepancy between STV computed by NIFECG and cCTG necessitates signal filtering, exclusion of poor-quality traces and eSTV correction. This study demonstrates that, with such correction, NIFECG is able to produce STV values that are strongly correlated with those of cCTG. This evidence base for NIFECG monitoring and interpretation is a promising step forward in the development of safe and effective at-home fetal heart-rate monitoring. © 2023 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Phase-rectified signal averaging: correlation between two monitors and relationship with short-term variation of fetal heart rate

OBJECTIVES

To establish the correlation between phase-rectified signal averaging (PRSA) outputs obtained from a novel self-applicable non-invasive fetal electrocardiography (NIFECG) monitor with those from computerized cardiotocography (cCTG). A secondary objective was to evaluate the potential for remote assessment of fetal wellbeing by determining the relationship between PRSA and short-term variation (STV).

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study of women with a singleton pregnancy over 28 + 0 weeks' gestation attending a London teaching hospital for cCTG assessment. Participants underwent concurrent cCTG and NIFECG monitoring for up to 60 min. Averaged accelerative (AAC) and decelerative (ADC) capacities and STV were derived by postprocessing and filtration of signals, generating fully (F) and partially (P) filtered results. Linear correlation and accuracy and precision analysis were performed to assess the relationship between PRSA outputs from cCTG and NIFECG, using varying anchor thresholds, and their association with STV.

RESULTS

A total of 306 concurrent cCTG and NIFECG traces were collected from 285 women. F-filtered NIFECG PRSA (eAAC/eADC) results were generated from 65% of traces, whereas cCTG PRSA (cAAC/cADC) outputs were generated from all. Strong correlations were observed between cAAC and F-filtered eAAC (r = 0.879, P < 0.001) and between cADC and F-filtered eADC (r = 0.895, P < 0.001). NIFECG anchor detection decreased significantly with increasing signal loss, and NIFECG PRSA indices showed considerable deviation from those of cCTG when derived from traces in which fewer than 100 anchors were detected. Removing anchor filters from NIFECG traces to generate P-filtered PRSA outputs weakened the correlation (AAC: r = 0.505, P < 0.001; ADC: r = 0.560, P < 0.001). Lowering the anchor threshold to 100 increased the yield of eAAC and eADC outputs to approximately 74%, whilst maintaining strong correlation with cAAC (r = 0.839, P < 0.001) and cADC (r = 0.815, P < 0.001), respectively. Both cAAC and cADC showed a very strong linear relationship with cCTG STV (r = 0.928, P < 0.001 and r = 0.911, P < 0.001, respectively). Similar findings were observed with eAAC (r = 0.825, P < 0.001) and eADC (r = 0.827, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

PRSA appears to be a method of fetal assessment equivalent to STV, but, due to its innate ability to eliminate artifacts, it generates interpretable NIFECG traces with high accuracy at a higher rate. These findings raise the possibility of self-applied at-home or remote fetal heart-rate monitoring with automated reporting, thus enabling increased surveillance in high-risk women without impacting on service demand. © 2023 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Immune-check blocking combination multiple cytokines shown curative potential in mice tumor model

OBJECTIVE

In order to ensure the stable transcription of target genes, we constructed a eukaryotic high expression vector carrying an immune-check inhibitor PD-1v and a variety of cytokines, and studied their effects on activating immune response to inhibit tumor growth.

METHODS

A novel eukaryotic expression plasmid vector named pT7AMPCE containing T7RNA polymerase, T7 promoter, internal ribosome entry site (IRES), and poly A tailing signal was constructed by T4 DNA ligase, on which homologous recombination was used to clone and construct the vector carrying PD-1v, IL-2/15, IL-12, GM-CSF, and GFP. In vitro transfection of CT26 cells was performed, and the protein expression of PD-1v, IL-12 and GM-CSF was detected by Western blot and ELISA after 48 h. Mice were subcutaneously inoculated with CT26-IRFP tumor cells in the rib abdomen, and the tumor tissues were injected with PD-1v, IL-2/15, IL-12, and GM-CSF recombinant plasmids for treatment during the experimental period. The efficacy of the treatment was evaluated by assay tumor size and survival time of tumor-bearing mice during the experiment. Expression levels of IFN-γ, TNF, IL-4, IL-2, and IL-5 in mouse blood were measured using the CBA method. Tumor tissues were extracted and immune cell infiltration in tumor tissues was detected by HE staining and the IHC method.

RESULTS

The recombinant plasmids carrying PD-1v, IL-2/15, IL-12, and GM-CSF were successfully constructed, and the Western blot and ELISA results showed that PD-1v, IL-12, and GM-CSF were expressed in the supernatant of CT26 cells 48 h after in vitro cell transfection. The combined application of PD-1v, IL-2/15, IL-12, and GM-CSF recombinant plasmids significantly inhibited tumor growth in mice, and the tumor growth rate was significantly lower than that in the blank control group and GFP plasmid control group (p < 0.05). Cytometric bead array data suggested that the combination of PD-1v and various cytokines can effectively activate immune cells. HE and IHC analysis revealed plenty of immune cell infiltrates in the tumor tissue, and a large proportion of tumor cells showed the necrotic phenotype in the combination treatment group.

CONCLUSION

The combination of immune check blockade and multiple cytokine therapy can significantly activate the body's immune response and inhibit tumor growth.

PD-1 Carried on Small Extracellular Vesicles Leads to OSCC Metastasis

Immune checkpoint molecule PD-1, expressed on the cell surface, impairs antigen-driven activation of T cells and thus plays a critical role in tumorigenesis, progression, and the poor prognosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). In addition, increasing evidence indicates that PD-1 carried on small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) also mediates tumor immunity, although their contributions to OSCC are yet unclear. Here, we investigated the biological functions of sEV PD-1 in patients with OSCC. The cell cycle, proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion of CAL27 cell lines treated with or without sEV PD-1 were examined in vitro. We performed mass spectrometry to investigate the underlying biological process, combined with an immunohistochemical study of SCC7-bearing mice models and OSCC patient samples. In vitro data demonstrated that sEV PD-1 induced senescence and subsequent epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in CAL27 cells by ligating with tumor cell surface PD-L1 and activating the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Comprehensive immunohistochemical analysis of the xenograft mice models and OSCC patient samples revealed a very close correlation between the level of circulating sEV PD-1 and lymph node metastasis. These results demonstrate that circulating sEV PD-1 triggers senescence-initiated EMT in a PD-L1-p38 MAPK-dependent manner, contributing to tumor metastasis. It also suggests that the inhibition of sEV PD-1 may be a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of OSCC.

[Assessment of the diagnostic value and prognosis of different detection markers in endocervical adenocarcinoma]

Objective: To study the diagnostic value of different detection markers in histological categories of endocervical adenocarcinoma (ECA), and their assessment of patient prognosis. Methods: A retrospective study of 54 patients with ECA in the Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences from 2005-2010 were performed. The cases of ECA were classified into two categories, namely human papillomavirus-associated adenocarcinoma (HPVA) and non-human papillomavirus-associated adenocarcinoma (NHPVA), based on the 2018 international endocervical adenocarcinoma criteria and classification (IECC). To detect HR-HPV DNA and HR-HPV E6/E7 mRNA in all patients, we used whole tissue section PCR (WTS-PCR) and HPV E6/E7 mRNA in situ hybridization (ISH) techniques, respectively. Additionally, we performed Laser microdissection PCR (LCM-PCR) on 15 randomly selected HR-HPV DNA-positive cases to confirm the accuracy of the above two assays in identifying ECA lesions. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to analyze the efficacy of markers to identify HPVA and NHPVA. Univariate and multifactorial Cox proportional risk model regression analyses were performed for factors influencing ECA patients' prognoses. Results: Of the 54 patients with ECA, 30 were HPVA and 24 were NHPVA. A total of 96.7% (29/30) of HPVA patients were positive for HR-HPV DNA and 63.3% (19/30) for HR-HPV E6/E7 mRNA, and 33.3% (8/24) of NHPVA patients were positive for HR-HPV DNA and HR-HPV E6/E7 mRNA was not detected (0/24), and the differences were statistically significant (P<0.001). LCM-PCR showed that five patients were positive for HR-HPV DNA in the area of glandular epithelial lesions and others were negative, which was in good agreement with the E6/E7 mRNA ISH assay (Kappa=0.842, P=0.001). Analysis of the ROC results showed that the AUC of HR-HPV DNA, HR-HPV E6/E7 mRNA, and p16 to identify HPVA and NHPVA were 0.817, 0.817, and 0.692, respectively, with sensitivities of 96.7%, 63.3%, and 80.0% and specificities of 66.7%, 100.0%, and 58.3%, respectively. HR-HPV DNA identified HPVA and NHPVA with higher AUC than p16 (P=0.044). The difference in survival rates between HR-HPV DNA (WTS-PCR assay) positive and negative patients was not statistically significant (P=0.156), while the difference in survival rates between HR-HPV E6/E7 mRNA positive and negative patients, and p16 positive and negative patients were statistically significant (both P<0.05). Multifactorial Cox regression analysis showed that International Federation of Obstetrics and Gynecology (FIGO) staging (HR=19.875, 95% CI: 1.526-258.833) and parametrial involvement (HR=14.032, 95% CI: 1.281-153.761) were independent factors influencing the prognosis of patients with ECA. Conclusions: HR-HPV E6/E7 mRNA is more reflective of HPV infection in ECA tissue. The efficacy of HR-HPV E6/E7 mRNA and HR-HPV DNA (WTS-PCR assay) in identifying HPVA and NHPVA is similar, with higher sensitivity of HR-HPV DNA and higher specificity of HR-HPV E6/E7 mRNA. HR-HPV DNA is more effective than p16 in identifying HPVA and NHPVA. HPV E6/E7 mRNA and p16 positive ECA patients have better survival rates than negative.

Lossless Reversible Data Hiding in Encrypted Image for Multiple Data Hiders Based on Pixel Value Order and Secret Sharing

Reversible data hiding in encrypted images (RDH-EI) is instrumental in image privacy protection and data embedding. However, conventional RDH-EI models, involving image providers, data hiders, and receivers, limit the number of data hiders to one, which restricts its applicability in scenarios requiring multiple data embedders. Therefore, the need for an RDH-EI accommodating multiple data hiders, especially for copyright protection, has become crucial. Addressing this, we introduce the application of Pixel Value Order (PVO) technology to encrypted reversible data hiding, combined with the secret image sharing (SIS) scheme. This creates a novel scheme, PVO, Chaotic System, Secret Sharing-based Reversible Data Hiding in Encrypted Image (PCSRDH-EI), which satisfies the (k,n) threshold property. An image is partitioned into N shadow images, and reconstruction is feasible when at least k shadow images are available. This method enables separate data extraction and image decryption. Our scheme combines stream encryption, based on chaotic systems, with secret sharing, underpinned by the Chinese remainder theorem (CRT), ensuring secure secret sharing. Empirical tests show that PCSRDH-EI can reach a maximum embedding rate of 5.706 bpp, outperforming the state-of-the-art and demonstrating superior encryption effects.

A Secure Secret Key Agreement Scheme among Multiple Twinning Superlattice PUF Holders

Modern cryptography attributes the security of a cryptographic system to the security of the key. How to securely distribute the key has always been a bottleneck in key management. This paper proposes a secure group key agreement scheme for multiple parties using a multiple twinning superlattice physical unclonable function (PUF) that can be synchronized. By sharing the challenge and helper data among multiple twinning superlattice PUF holders, the scheme employs a reusable fuzzy extractor to obtain the key locally. Moreover, adopting public-key encryption encrypts public data for establishing the subgroup key, which provides independent communication for the subgroup. At the same time, when the subgroup membership changes, the public key encrypts new public data to update the subgroup key, forming scalable group communication. This paper also presents a cost and formal security analysis, which shows that the proposed scheme can achieve computational security by applying the key obtained by the computationally secure reusable fuzzy extractor to the EAV-secure symmetric-key encryption, which has indistinguishable encryption in the presence of an eavesdropper. Additionally, the scheme is secure against physical attacks, man-in-the-middle attacks, and machine learning modeling attacks.

In Situ Proteomic Analysis of Herbicide-Resistant Soybean and Hybrid Seeds via Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization-Mass Spectrometry Imaging

Transgenic soybean is the commercial crop with the largest cultivation area worldwide. During transgenic soybean cultivation, exogenous genes may be transferred to wild relatives through gene flow, posing unpredictable ecological risks. Accordingly, an environmental risk assessment should focus on fitness changes and underlying mechanisms in hybrids between transgenic and wild soybeans (Glycine soja). Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) was used for in situ detection and imaging of protein changes in the seeds of transgenic herbicide-resistant soybean harboring epsps and pat genes, non-transgenic soybean, wild soybean, and their F₂ hybrid. Protein data clearly distinguished wild soybeans, while the F₂ seeds had protein characteristics of both parents and were distinguished from wild soybean seeds. Using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS, 22 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified, including 13 specific to wild soybean. Sucrose synthase and stress response-related DEPs were differentially expressed in parental and offspring. Differences in these may underpin the greater adaptability of the latter. MSI revealed DEP distribution in transgenic, wild, and F₂ seeds. Identifying DEPs related to fitness may elucidate mechanisms underlying fitness differences among the studied varieties. Our study shows that MALDI-MSI has the potential to become a visual method for transgenic soybean analysis.

Association of virome dynamics with mosquito species and environmental factors

BACKGROUND

The pathogenic viruses transmitted by mosquitoes cause a variety of animal and human diseases and public health concerns. Virome surveillance is important for the discovery, and control of mosquito-borne pathogenic viruses, as well as early warning systems. Virome composition in mosquitoes is affected by mosquito species, food source, and geographic region. However, the complex associations of virome composition remain largely unknown.

RESULTS

Here, we profiled the high-depth RNA viromes of 15 species of field-caught adult mosquitoes, especially from Culex, Aedes, Anopheles, and Armigeres in Hainan Island from 2018 to 2020. We detected 57 known and 39 novel viruses belonging to 15 families. We established the associations of the RNA viruses with mosquito species and their foods, indicating the importance of feeding acquisition of RNA viruses in determining virome composition. A large fraction of RNA viruses were persistent in the same mosquito species across the 3 years and different locations, showing the species-specific stability of viromes in Hainan Island. In contrast, the virome compositions of single mosquito species in different geographic regions worldwide are visibly distinct. This is consistent with the differences in food sources of mosquitoes distributed broadly across continents.

CONCLUSIONS

Thus, species-specific viromes in a relatively small area are limited by viral interspecific competition and food sources, whereas the viromes of mosquito species in large geographic regions may be governed by ecological interactions between mosquitoes and local environmental factors. Video Abstract.

Retraction Note: LncRNA BRE-AS1 acts as a tumor suppressor factor in bladder cancer via mediating STAT3

The article "LncRNA BRE-AS1 acts as a tumor suppressor factor in bladder cancer via mediating STAT3", by L. Zhang, B. Liu, Q.-H. Deng, J.-X. Li, published in Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2020; 24 (10): 5320-5328-DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202005_21314-PMID: 32495865 has been retracted by the Editor in Chief for the following reasons: This paper has been questioned on PubPeer (https://pubpeer.com/publications/F4A75D571A58C9005B703B2B8C4A8E). In particular, concerns were raised about Figures 2D and 5A as the figures result to overlap with previously published papers. The paper has been identified with the "The Clear Skies Papermill Alarm". The Editorial Office has contacted the corresponding author of the article to provide a reply to the comments on PubPeer and the raw data. Still, the journal has yet to receive a reply. Therefore, considering the comments released on PubPeer and the lack of response from authors, the Editor in Chief no longer relies on the data presented and decided to withdraw the manuscript. The Publisher apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause. https://www.europeanreview.org/article/21314.

Ni electrodes with 3D-ordered surface structures for boosting bubble releasing toward high current density alkaline water splitting

The performance of alkaline water electrolysis (AWE) at high current densities is limited by gas bubble generation on the surface of electrodes, which covers active sites and blocks mass transfer, resulting in lower AWE efficiency. Here, we utilize electro-etching to construct Ni electrodes with hydrophilic and aerophobic surfaces to improve the efficiency of AWE. Ni atoms on the Ni surface can be exfoliated orderly along the crystal planes by electro-etching, forming micro-nano-scale rough surfaces with multiple crystal planes exposed. The 3D-ordered surface structures increase the exposure of active sites and promote the removal of bubbles on the surface of the electrode during the AWE process. In addition, experimental results from high-speed camera reveal that rapidly released bubbles can improve the local circulation of electrolyte. Lastly, the accelerated durability test based on practical working condition demonstrates that the 3D-ordered surface structures are robust and durable during the AWE process.

Robotic versus laparoscopic left colectomy with complete mesocolic excision for left-sided colon cancer: a multicentre study with propensity score matching analysis

BACKGROUND

Robotic surgery for right-sided colon and rectal cancer has rapidly increased; however, there is limited evidence in the literature of advantages of robotic left colectomy (RLC) for left-sided colon cancer. The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes of RLC versus laparoscopic left colectomy (LLC) with complete mesocolic excision (CME) for left-sided colon cancer.

METHODS

Patients who had RLC or LLC with CME for left-sided colon cancer at 5 hospitals in China between January 2014 and April 2022 were included. A one-to-one propensity score matched analysis was performed to decrease confounding. The primary outcome was postoperative complications occurring within 30 days of surgery. Secondary outcomes were disease-free survival, overall survival and the number of harvested lymph nodes.

RESULTS

A total of 292 patients (187 males; median age 61.0 [20.0-85.0] years) were eligible for this study, and propensity score matching yielded 102 patients in each group. The clinical-pathological characteristics were well-matched between groups. The two groups did not differ in estimated blood loss, conversion to open rate, time to first flatus, reoperation rate, or postoperative length of hospital stay (p > 0.05). RLC was associated with a longer operation time (192.9 ± 53.2 vs. 168.9 ± 52.8 minutes, p=0.001). The incidence of postoperative complications did not differ between the RLC and LLC groups (18.6% vs. 17.6%, p = 0.856). The total number of lymph nodes harvested in the RLC group was higher than that in the LLC group (15.7 ± 8.3 vs. 12.1 ± 5.9, p< 0.001). There were no significant differences in 3-year and 5-year overall survival or 3-year and 5-year disease-free survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to laparoscopic surgery, RLC with CME for left-sided colon cancer was found to be associated with higher numbers of lymph nodes harvested and similar postoperative complications and long-term survival outcomes.

CuSCN/Si heterojunction near-infrared photodetector based on micro/nano light-trapping structure

In this paper, high-performance CuSCN/Si heterojunction near-infrared photodetectors were successfully prepared using nanoscale light-trapping optical structures. Various light-trapping structures of ortho-pyramids, inverted pyramids and silicon nanowires were prepared on silicon substrates. Then, CuSCN films were spin-coated on silicon substrates with high crystalline properties for the assembly of CuSCN/Si photodetectors. Their reflectance spectra and interfacial passivation properties were characterized, demonstrating their superiority of light-trapping structures in high light response. Under the irradiation of 980 nm near-infrared light, a maximum responsivity of 2.88 A W^-1at -4 V bias and a specific detectivity of 5.427 × 10¹⁰Jones were obtained in the CuSCN/Si heterojunction photodetectors prepared on planner silicon due to 3.6 eV band gap of CuSCN. The substrates of the light-trapping structure were then applied to the CuSCN/Si heterojunction photodetectors. A maximum responsivity of 10.16 A W^-1and a maximum specific detectivity of 1.001 × 10¹¹Jones were achieved under the 980 nm near-infrared light irradiation and -4 V bias, demonstrating the advanced performance of CuSCN/Si heterojunction photodetectors with micro-nano light-trapping substrates in the field of near-infrared photodetection compared to other silicon-based photodetectors.

Crystal structure engineering of metal halide perovskites for photocatalytic organic synthesis

Engineering crystal structure of Cs₃BiBr₆ and Cs₃Bi₂Br₉ is theoretically and experimentally demonstrated to modulate their photocatalytic performance. This work offers insights into the structure-photoactivity relationships of metal halide perovskites (MHPs) and provides a guideline for exploiting MHPs toward efficient photocatalytic organic synthesis.

Hydrogen sulfide alleviates lipopolysaccharide-induced myocardial injury through TLR4-NLRP3 pathway

To investigate the effect of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) on myocardial injury in sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction (SIMD), male C57BL/6 mice were intraperitoneally injected with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (10 mg/kg, i.p.) to induce cardiac dysfunction without or with the H2S donor sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS) (50 µmol/kg, i.p.) administration 3 h after LPS injection. Six hours after the LPS injection, echocardiography, cardiac hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, myocardial damage and inflammatory biomarkers and Western blot results were analyzed. In mice, the administration of LPS decreased left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) by 30 % along with lowered H2S levels (35 % reduction). It was observed that cardiac troponin I (cTnI), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), and interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) levels were all increased (by 0.22-fold, 2000-fold and 0.66-fold respectively). HE staining revealed structural damage and inflammatory cell infiltration in the myocardial tissue after LPS administration. Moreover, after 6 h of LPS treatment, toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and nod-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) expressions were up-regulated 2.7-fold and 1.6-fold respectively. When compared to the septic mice, NaHS enhanced ventricular function (by 0.19-fold), decreased cTnI, TNF-alpha, and IL-1beta levels (by 11 %, 33 %, and 16 % respectively) and downregulated TLR4 and NLRP3 expressions (by 64 % and 31 % respectively). Furthermore, NaHS did not further improve cardiac function and inflammation in TLR4-/- mice or mice in which NLRP3 activation was inhibited by MCC950, after LPS injection. In conclusion, these findings imply that decreased endogenous H2S promotes the progression of SIMD, whereas exogenous H2S alleviates SIMD by inhibiting inflammation via the TLR4-NLRP3 pathway suppression.

A simplified direct on-chip forward or reverse immunoassay for evaluating protein-protein interactions in the serum

BACKGROUND

The identification of protein-protein interactions is a great challenge. In this study, we fabricated a gold surface-modified biochip with activated sophorolipids (SLs) in combination with 16-amino-1-hexadecanethiol hydrochloride to detect serum proteins.

MAIN METHODS AND MAJOR RESULTS

The on-chip immunoassay reported here included a forward assay, in which a ligand is immobilized on the biochip surface and allowed to interact with its free specific receptor in liquid phase, and a reverse assay, in which a receptor is loaded on the biochip surface and combined with its free specific ligand in solution. The specificity of the molecular interactions on the biochip was evaluated using immunological blocking assays and chemiluminescent immunoassays (CLIA). Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) serum was used to test the potential utilization of the biochip. Reverse receptor CD25-based interleukin (IL)-2 and forward ligand IL-2-based CD25 assays revealed that the limit of detection of the target proteins was as low as 156 and 78 pg/ml, respectively. Using receptor- or ligand-based platforms, we found that the positive rates of free IL-2 and soluble CD25 (sCD25) monomers in the sera of HLH patients were 14.3% and 71.4%, respectively. In addition, the biochip showed good compatibility with CLIA for the measurement of sCD25 (r = 0.77, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Biochip platforms, such as on-chip immunoprecipitation (IP), can be used to evaluate the interactions between proteins, ligands, and receptors, or enzymes and substrates in serum.

Activation cross sections for reactions induced by 14 MeV neutrons on natural titanium

Cross sections for the neutrons around 14 MeV interaction with natural titanium were precisely measured by neutron activation and off-line measurement technique. The fast neutrons were produced by ³H(d,n)⁴He reaction and the neutron energy was obtained by using the cross section ratio method of ⁹⁰Zr(n,2n)⁸⁹Zr to ⁹³Nb(n,2n)^92mNb reactions. Experimental cross sections have been acquired for ^natTi(n,x)⁴⁶Sc, ^natTi(n,x)⁴⁷Sc, ⁵⁰Ti(n,x)⁴⁷Ca and ⁴⁸Ti(n,x)⁴⁸Sc reactions. The measured cross section data are compared with the experimental data available in the previous literature and evaluated nuclear data from the ENDF/B-VIII.0, JEFF-3.3, JENDL-5, BROND-3.1, CENDL-3.2 and FENDL-3.2b libraries. Furthermore, excitation functions for these reactions were calculated by using the theoretical model based on Talys-1.96 code with default and adjusted parameters. Within experimental error, evaluated nuclear data are mostly consistent with experimental data. The excitation function with adjusted parameters can roughly reproduce the experimental data.

[Rauwolfia extract inhibits the proliferation of prostate cells in rats with benign prostatic hyperplasia]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of different concentrations of Rauwolfia extract (RE) on the proliferation of prostate cells in the rat model of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

METHODS

We randomly divided 48 male SD rats into six groups of an equal number, BPH model control, finasteride, low-concentration RE, medium-concentration RE, high-concentration RE and normal control, and established a BPH model in the former five groups by subcutaneous injection of testosterone propionate following castration. We treated the rats of the finasteride and RE groups intragastrically with finasteride solution at 5 mg/kg and RE at 5, 10 and 20 mg/kg respectively, and those of the model control and normal control groups with an equal dose of normal saline, all once a day for 28 consecutive days. Then, we killed all the animals, collected their prostate tissue, obtained the wet weight and volume of the prostate, the prostate index and the contents of serum T and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), observed the morphological changes of the prostate tissue by HE staining, counted the glands in the prostate tissue, measured the intraglandular area, and determined the expressions of PCNA and α-SMA by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

Compared with the rats of the normal control group, the BPH model controls showed significantly increased wet weight (［0.923 ± 0.15］ vs ［1.455 ± 0.52］ g, P < 0.05), volume (［1.035 ± 0.29］ vs ［1.687 ± 0.31］ ml, P < 0.05) and index of the prostate (［0.23 ± 0.04］% vs ［0.37 ± 0.15］%, P < 0.05), dilation, hyperemia and edema of the prostatic stroma and vessels, and proliferation rate of the prostatic cells, but remarkably decreased number of glands (［20.35 ± 3.83］ vs ［12.56 ± 2.58］, P < 0.05), epithelial thickness (［39.76 ± 5.20］ vs ［19.52 ± 1.52］ μm, P < 0.05) and intraglandular area (［12.3 ± 1.21］ vs ［5.96 ± 0.34］ ×103μm2, P < 0.05). In comparison with the BPH model controls, the animals treated with RE, especially in the high-concentration RE group, exhibited marked decreases in the weight (［1.455 ± 0.52］ vs ［0.862 ± 0.31］ g, P < 0.05), volume ( ［1.687 ± 0.31］ vs ［0.952 ± 0.28］ ml, P < 0.05) and index of the prostate (［0.37 ± 0.15］% vs ［0.22 ± 0.07］%, P < 0.05), dramatic improvement in the number of glands (［12.56 ± 2.58］ vs ［18.36 ± 1.25］, P < 0.05), epithelial thickness (［39.76 ± 5.20］ vs ［19.04 ± 3.89］ μm, P < 0.05) and intraglandular area (［5.96 ± 0.34］ vs ［10.25 ± 0.98］ ×103μm2, P<0.05］, P < 0.05), remarkable down-regulation of the expressions of PCNA and α-SMA, and significant reduction of the contents of serum T (［19.147 ± 3.214］ vs ［6.016 ± 1.978］ ng/ml, P < 0.05) and DHT (［9.052 ± 0.633］ vs ［2.532 ± 0.386］ ng/ml, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Rauwolfia extract can inhibit the proliferation of prostate cells and relieve BPH symptoms in a concentration-dependent manner in rats with BPH.

Survey of Technology in Network Security Situation Awareness

Network security situation awareness (NSSA) is an integral part of cybersecurity defense, and it is essential for cybersecurity managers to respond to increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. Different from traditional security measures, NSSA can identify the behavior of various activities in the network and conduct intent understanding and impact assessment from a macro perspective so as to provide reasonable decision support, predicting the development trend of network security. It is a means to analyze the network security quantitatively. Although NSSA has received extensive attention and exploration, there is a lack of comprehensive reviews of the related technologies. This paper presents a state-of-the-art study on NSSA that can help bridge the current research status and future large-scale application. First, the paper provides a concise introduction to NSSA, highlighting its development process. Then, the paper focuses on the research progress of key technologies in recent years. We further discuss the classic use cases of NSSA. Finally, the survey details various challenges and potential research directions related to NSSA.

Design and Implementation of a Chain-Type Direct Push Drilling Rig for Contaminated Sites

For sites where volatile organic compounds are present, the direct push method, in combination with other sensors for investigation, is a powerful method. The investigation process is an integrated drilling and sensing process, but the trajectory of the probe carrying the sensor is ambiguous. This paper explores and introduces the application of a chain-type direct push drilling rig by designing and building a chain-type direct push miniature drilling rig. This rig allows for indoor experimental studies of direct push trajectories. The chain-type direct push drilling model is proposed based on the mechanism of chain transmission. The drilling rig provides a steady direct thrust through the chain, which is driven by a hydraulic motor. In addition, the drilling tests and results described prove that the chain could be applied to direct push drilling. The chain-type direct push drilling rig can drill to a depth of 1940 mm in single-pass and up to 20,000 mm in multiple passes. The test results also indicate that it drills a total length of 462.461 mm and stops after 87.545 s of operation. The machine can provide a drilling angle of 0-90° and keep the borehole angle fluctuating within 0.6° with the characteristics of strong adjustability, flexibility, continuity, stability, and low disturbance, which is of great value and significance for studying the drilling trajectory of direct push tools and obtaining more accurate investigation data.

A concentration-descending washing strategy with methanol for the enhancement of protein imaging in biological tissues by MALDI-MS

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) is a powerful approach that has been widely used for in situ detection of various endogenous compounds in tissues. However, there are still challenges with in situ analysis of proteins using MALDI-MSI due to the ion suppression effects of small molecules in tissue sections. Therefore, tissue-washing steps are crucial for protein MALDI tissue imaging to remove these interfering molecules. Here, we successfully developed a new method named the concentration-descending washing strategy (CDWS) with methanol (MeOH), i.e., washing of biological tissue with 100%, 95%, and 70% MeOH solutions, for the enhancement of endogenous in situ protein detection and imaging in tissues using MALDI-MS. The method of MeOH-based CDWS (MeOH-CDWS) led to the successful in situ detection of 272 ± 3, 185 ± 4, and 134 ± 2 protein ion signals from rat liver, rat brain, and germinating Chinese-yew seed tissue sections, respectively. By comparison, 161 ± 2, 121 ± 1, and 114 ± 2 protein ions were detected by three commonly used methods, i.e., Carnoy's wash, ethanol (EtOH)-based CAWS (i.e., concentration-ascending washing strategy, 70% EtOH followed by 90% EtOH/9% AcOH), and isopropanol (iPrOH)-based CAWS (70% iPrOH followed by 95% iPrOH), respectively, in rat liver tissue sections, indicating that 68.9 ± 3.1%, 124.8 ± 3.3%, and 138.6 ± 4.4% more protein ion signals could be detected by the use of MeOH-CDWS than the three abovementioned washing strategies. Our results show that the use of MeOH-CDWS improves the performance of MALDI-MSI for in situ protein detection such as the number and intensity of proteins. The use of MeOH-CDWS improves the fixation of proteins and thus reduces the loss of proteins, which significantly reduces protein delocalization in tissue and enhances the performance of MALDI tissue imaging of protein. Thus, the use of MeOH-CDWS improves the quality of protein images in tissue sections through MALDI-MSI and has the potential to be used as standard practice for MALDI tissue imaging of proteins.