Different microbial ecological agents change the composition of intestinal microbiota and the levels of SCFAs in mice to alleviate loperamide-induced constipation

Probiotics exert beneficial effects by regulating the intestinal microbiota, metabolism, immune function and other ways of their host. Patients with constipation, a common gastrointestinal disorder, experience disturbances in their intestinal microbiota. In the present study, we investigated the effectiveness of two microbial ecological agents (postbiotic extract PE0401 and a combination of postbiotic extract PE0401 and Lacticaseibacillus paracasei CCFM 2711) in regulating the makeup of the intestinal microbiota and alleviating loperamide hydrochloride-induced constipation in mice. We also preliminarily explored the mechanism underlying their effects. Both microbial ecological agents increased the abundance of the beneficial bacteria Lactobacilli and Bifidobacterium after administration and were able to relieve constipation. However, the degree of improvement in constipation symptoms varied depending on the makeup of the supplement. The postbiotic extract PE0401 increased peristalsis time and improved faecal properties throughout the intestinal tract of the host. PE0401 relieved constipation, possibly by modulating the levels of the constipation-related gastrointestinal regulatory transmitters mouse motilin, mouse vasoactive intestinal peptide, and 5-hydoxytryptamine in the intestinal tract of the host and by increasing the levels of the short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) acetic acid, propionic acid, and isovaleric acid. It also increased the relative abundance of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium and reduced that of Faecalibaculum, Mucispirillum, Staphylococcus, and Lachnoclostridium, which are among the beneficial microbiota in the host intestine. Furthermore, PE0401 decreased the levels of constipation-induced host inflammatory factors. Therefore, the two microbial ecological agents can regulate the intestinal microbiota of constipation mice, and PE0401 has a stronger ability to relieve constipation.

Efficacy and safety of intrathecal pemetrexed for TKI-failed leptomeningeal metastases from EGFR+ NSCLC: an expanded, single-arm, phase II clinical trial

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of intrathecal pemetrexed (IP) for treating patients with leptomeningeal metastases (LM) from non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who progressed from epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) treatment in an expanded, prospective, single-arm, phase II clinical study (ChiCTR1800016615).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with confirmed NSCLC-LM who progressed from TKI received IP (50 mg, day 1/day 5 for 1 week, then every 3 weeks for four cycles, and then once monthly) until disease progression or intolerance. Objectives were to assess overall survival (OS), response rate, and safety. Measurable lesions were assessed by investigator according to RECIST version 1.1. LM were assessed according to the Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology (RANO) criteria.

RESULTS

The study included 132 patients; 68% were female and median age was 52 years (31-74 years). The median OS was 12 months (95% confidence interval 10.4-13.6 months), RANO-assessed response rate was 80.3% (106/132), and the most common adverse event was myelosuppression (n = 42; 31.8%), which reversed after symptomatic treatment. The results of subgroup analysis showed that absence of brain parenchymal metastasis, good Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group score, good response to IP treatment, negative cytology after treatment, and patients without neck/back pain/difficult defecation had longer survival. Gender, age, previous intrathecal methotrexate/cytarabine, and whole-brain radiotherapy had no significant influence on OS.

CONCLUSIONS

This study further showed that IP is an effective and safe treatment method for the EGFR-TKI-failed NSCLC-LM, and should be recommended for these patients in clinical practice and guidelines.

Amplitude Analysis of the B^{0}→K^{*0}μ^{+}μ^{-} Decay

An amplitude analysis of the B^{0}→K^{*0}μ^{+}μ^{-} decay is presented using a dataset corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 4.7  fb^{-1} of pp collision data collected with the LHCb experiment. For the first time, the coefficients associated to short-distance physics effects, sensitive to processes beyond the standard model, are extracted directly from the data through a q^{2}-unbinned amplitude analysis, where q^{2} is the μ^{+}μ^{-} invariant mass squared. Long-distance contributions, which originate from nonfactorizable QCD processes, are systematically investigated, and the most accurate assessment to date of their impact on the physical observables is obtained. The pattern of measured corrections to the short-distance couplings is found to be consistent with previous analyses of b- to s-quark transitions, with the largest discrepancy from the standard model predictions found to be at the level of 1.8 standard deviations. The global significance of the observed differences in the decay is 1.4 standard deviations.

Controlled establishment of advanced local high-entropy NiCoMnFe-based layered double hydroxide for zinc batteries and low-temperature supercapacitors

The development of high-performance electrodes is essential for improving the charge storage performance of rechargeable devices. In this study, local high-entropy C, N co-doped NiCoMnFe-based layered double hydroxide (C/N-NiCoMnFe-LDH, C/N-NCMF) were designed using a novel method. Multi-component synergistic effects can dramatically modulate the surface electron density, crystalline structure, and band-gap of the electrode. Thus, the electrical conductivity, electron transfer, and affinity for the electrolyte can be optimized. Additionally, the C/N-NCMF yielded a high specific capacitance (1454F·g-1) at 1 A·g-1. The electrode also exhibited excellent cycling stability, with 62 % capacitance retention after 5000 cycles. Moreover, the assembled Zn||C/N-NCMF battery and the C/N-NCMF//AC hybrid supercapacitor yielded excellent energy densities of 63.1 and 35.4 Wh·kg-1 at power densities of 1000 and 825 W·kg-1, and superior cycling performance with 69 % and 88.7 % capacitance retention after 1000 and 30,000 cycles, respectively. Furthermore, the electrode maintained high electrochemical activity and stability and ensured high energy density, power density, and cycling stability of the rechargeable devices even at a low temperature (-20 °C). This study paves a new pathway for regulating the electrochemical performance of LDH-based electrodes.

Fraction of χ_{c} Decays in Prompt J/ψ Production Measured in pPb Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=8.16 TeV

The fraction of χ_{c1} and χ_{c2} decays in the prompt J/ψ yield, F_{χ_{c}→J/ψ}=σ_{χ_{c}→J/ψ}/σ_{J/ψ}, is measured by the LHCb detector in pPb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=8.16  TeV. The study covers the forward (1.5 Collapse

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Subnational estimates of vitamin A supplementation coverage in children: a geospatial analysis of 45 low- and middle-income countries

OBJECTIVES

Vitamin A supplementation (VAS) can protect children from the adverse health consequences of vitamin A deficiency. Granular data on VAS coverage can guide global and national efforts to achieve universal VAS coverage. To provide geographically precise targeting of VAS programs and to monitor progress in reducing geographic disparities, we aimed to create high-resolution (5 × 5 km2) maps of VAS coverage in children under 5 years across VAS priority countries.

STUDY DESIGN

We used cross-sectional data from the Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) program.

METHODS

We used data from the DHS program for United Nations Children's Fund -designated VAS priority countries between 2000 and 2017 with data available from 2005 or later. The outcome variable was the proportion of children under 5 years who received a vitamin A dose in each sampled cluster. We applied a Bayesian geostatistical approach incorporating geographic, climatic, and nutritional covariates to estimate VAS coverage for each cell. We estimated and mapped absolute VAS coverage, Bayesian uncertainty intervals, and exceedance probabilities.

RESULTS

Our sample included countries from Latin America and the Caribbean, Asia, and Africa. Most countries had estimated VAS coverage levels <70%, and our exceedance probabilities indicated high certainty that our estimates fell below this threshold in most grid cells. International variations were most notable in the Latin America and the Caribbean region and Africa. Intranational variations were greatest in some South Asian and West and Central African countries.

CONCLUSIONS

These prevalence and exceedance maps, especially used with data on indicators of VAS need, could help to improve equity.

Treatment of auricular pseudocysts using enhanced negative drainage: a prospective study of 21 cases

OBJECTIVE

Auricular pseudocysts are rare, painless, benign intracartilaginous cysts of the auricle that are not lined by epithelium and have no known aetiology.

METHOD

This was a prospective study conducted in an ENT department from January 2020 to June 2022. In 21 patients, complete aspiration of the pseudocyst with enhanced negative drainage was performed. They were followed for a minimum of six months.

RESULTS

All patients completely responded to the negative drainage treatment. No cases of recurrence or obvious deformities were observed.

CONCLUSION

Aspiration with intensified negative drainage was associated with a positive response in patients with auricular pseudocysts. Complete resolution of the swelling can be achieved without any serious complications. Thus, it appears to be a simple and effective method for managing the condition.

Observation of Cabibbo-Suppressed Two-Body Hadronic Decays and Precision Mass Measurement of the Ω_{c}^{0} Baryon

The first observation of the singly Cabibbo-suppressed Ω_{c}^{0}→Ω^{-}K^{+} and Ω_{c}^{0}→Ξ^{-}π^{+} decays is reported, using proton-proton collision data at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 5.4  fb^{-1}, collected with the LHCb detector between 2016 and 2018. The branching fraction ratios are measured to be B(Ω_{c}^{0}→Ω^{-}K^{+})/B(Ω_{c}^{0}→Ω^{-}π^{+})=[6.08±0.51(stat)±0.40(syst)]%,B(Ω_{c}^{0}→Ξ^{-}π^{+})/B(Ω_{c}^{0}→Ω^{-}π^{+})=[15.81±0.87(stat)±0.44(syst)±0.16(ext)]%. In addition, using the Ω_{c}^{0}→Ω^{-}π^{+} decay channel, the Ω_{c}^{0} baryon mass is measured to be M(Ω_{c}^{0})=2695.28±0.07(stat)±0.27(syst)±0.30(ext)  MeV, improving the precision of the previous world average by a factor of 4.

Enhanced Production of Λ_{b}^{0} Baryons in High-Multiplicity pp Collisions at sqrt[s]=13 TeV

The production rate of Λ_{b}^{0} baryons relative to B^{0} mesons in pp collisions at a center-of-mass energy sqrt[s]=13  TeV is measured by the LHCb experiment. The ratio of Λ_{b}^{0} to B^{0} production cross sections shows a significant dependence on both the transverse momentum and the measured charged-particle multiplicity. At low multiplicity, the ratio measured at LHCb is consistent with the value measured in e^{+}e^{-} collisions, and increases by a factor of ∼2 with increasing multiplicity. At relatively low transverse momentum, the ratio of Λ_{b}^{0} to B^{0} cross sections is higher than what is measured in e^{+}e^{-} collisions, but converges with the e^{+}e^{-} ratio as the momentum increases. These results imply that the evolution of heavy b quarks into final-state hadrons is influenced by the density of the hadronic environment produced in the collision. Comparisons with several models and implications for the mechanisms enforcing quark confinement are discussed.

Improved Measurement of CP Violation Parameters in B_{s}^{0}→J/ψK^{+}K^{-} Decays in the Vicinity of the ϕ(1020) Resonance

The decay-time-dependent CP asymmetry in B_{s}^{0}→J/ψ(→μ^{+}μ^{-})K^{+}K^{-} decays is measured using proton-proton collision data, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 6  fb^{-1}, collected with the LHCb detector at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV. Using a sample of approximately 349 000 B_{s}^{0} signal decays with an invariant K^{+}K^{-} mass in the vicinity of the ϕ(1020) resonance, the CP-violating phase ϕ_{s} is measured, along with the difference in decay widths of the light and heavy mass eigenstates of the B_{s}^{0}-B[over ¯]_{s}^{0} system, ΔΓ_{s}, and the difference of the average B_{s}^{0} and B^{0} meson decay widths, Γ_{s}-Γ_{d}. The values obtained are ϕ_{s}=-0.039±0.022±0.006  rad, ΔΓ_{s}=0.0845±0.0044±0.0024  ps^{-1}, and Γ_{s}-Γ_{d}=-0.0056_{-0.0015}^{+0.0013}±0.0014  ps^{-1}, where the first uncertainty is statistical and the second systematic. These are the most precise single measurements to date and are consistent with expectations based on the Standard Model and with the previous LHCb analyses of this decay. These results are combined with previous independent LHCb measurements. The phase ϕ_{s} is also measured independently for each polarization state of the K^{+}K^{-} system and shows no evidence for polarization dependence.

Effect of contact precautions on preventing meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus transmission in intensive care units: a review and modelling study of field trials

BACKGROUND

Contact precautions (CPs) have been widely implemented in hospitals, particularly in intensive care units (ICUs), as the standard approach for managing meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). However, the effectiveness of CPs in preventing MRSA transmission remains a subject of debate.

AIM

To assess the effectiveness of CPs in reducing MRSA transmission within ICUs.

METHODS

A comprehensive analysis was conducted using data from 16 sets of parameters collected from 13 field studies investigating the effectiveness of CPs in ICUs, and an epidemiologic model was developed to simulate the dynamics of MRSA incidence in the hospital setting.

FINDINGS

The analysis demonstrated a mean reduction of 20.52% (95% confidence interval -30.52 to 71.60%) in the MRSA transmission rate associated with the implementation of CPs. Furthermore, reducing the time-delay of screening tests and increasing the percentage of patients identified with MRSA through screening at admission were found to contribute to the effectiveness of CPs.

CONCLUSION

Proper implementation of CPs, with a particular emphasis on early identification of MRSA-colonized/infected patients, demonstrated a strong association with reduced MRSA transmission within the hospital setting. However, further research is necessary to investigate the effectiveness and safety of decolonization and other interventions used in conjunction with CPs to mitigate the risk of infection among colonized patients.

Bronchiolar adenoma/ciliated muconodular papillary tumour: advancing clinical, pathological, and imaging insights for future perspectives

Bronchiolar adenoma/ciliated muconodular papillary tumour (BA/CMPT) is a benign peripheral lung tumour composed of bilayered bronchiolar-type epithelium containing a continuous basal cell layer; however, the similarities in imaging and tissue biopsy findings at histopathology between BA/CMPT and malignant tumours, including lung adenocarcinoma, pose significant challenges in accurately diagnosing BA/CMPT preoperatively. This difficulty in differentiation often results in misdiagnosis and unnecessary overtreatment. The objective of this article is to provide a comprehensive and systematic review of BA/CMPT, encompassing its clinical manifestations, pathological basis, imaging features, and differential diagnosis. By enhancing healthcare professionals' understanding of this disease, we aim to improve the accuracy of preoperative BA/CMPT diagnosis. This improvement is crucial for the development of appropriate therapeutic strategies and the overall improvement of patient prognosis.

Measurement of CP Violation in B^{0}→ψ(→ℓ^{+}ℓ^{-})K_{S}^{0}(→π^{+}π^{-}) Decays

A measurement of time-dependent CP violation in the decays of B^{0} and B[over ¯]^{0} mesons to the final states J/ψ(→μ^{+}μ^{-})K_{S}^{0}, ψ(2S)(→μ^{+}μ^{-})K_{S}^{0} and J/ψ(→e^{+}e^{-})K_{S}^{0} with K_{S}^{0}→π^{+}π^{-} is presented. The data correspond to an integrated luminosity of 6  fb^{-1} collected at a center-of-mass energy of sqrt[s]=13  TeV with the LHCb detector. The CP-violation parameters are measured to be S_{ψK_{S}^{0}}=0.717±0.013(stat)±0.008(syst) and C_{ψK_{S}^{0}}=0.008±0.012(stat)±0.003(syst). This measurement of S_{ψK_{S}^{0}} represents the most precise single measurement of the CKM angle β to date and is more precise than the current world average. In addition, measurements of the CP-violation parameters of the individual channels are reported and a combination with the LHCb Run 1 measurements is performed.

Critical Values of Daily Sedentary Time and Its Longitudinal Association with Mild Cognitive Impairment Considering APOE ε4: A Prospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Long sedentary time and physical inactivity are negatively related to cognition, but the cut-off value remains unclear, and apolipoprotein E polymorphism ε4 (APOE ε4) is a known genetic risk factor of mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

OBJECTIVES

To explore longitudinal association of sedentary time and MCI, and to identify a cutoff value that increases the risk of developing MCI, taking into account APOE ε4 stratification and its interactions.

DESIGN

A prospective cohort study.

SETTING

Population-based study.

PARTICIPANTS

We included 4932 older adults from Tianjin Elderly Nutrition and Cognition (TENC) cohort study recruited from March 2018 to June 2021 with 3.11 years of median follow-up time.

MEASUREMENTS

The primary outcome was newly diagnosed MCI, which was diagnosed by a modified version of the Petersen's criteria. The information of sedentary time (hours/day) and physical activity (MET-h/week) were obtained by questionnaire. Cox proportional hazard regression models and restricted spline curve were conducted.

RESULTS

A total of 4932 participants were included (mean [SD] age, 67.85 [4.96] years; 2627 female [53.3%] and 2305 male [46.7%]), 740 newly onset MCI patients were identified. Longer sedentary time was associated with higher risk of MCI for all participants (HR:1.069, 95%CI: 1.034, 1.105), especially in APOE ε4 non-carriers (HR:1.083, 95%CI: 1.045, 1.123) whether adjusted potential confounders. Sedentary time had synergistic interactions with APOE ε4 (β:1.503, 95%CI: 1.163, 1.942) and physical activities (β: 1.495, 95%CI: 1.210, 1.846). Restricted spline curve showed a cut-off value of 3.03 hours/day.

CONCLUSIONS

Long sedentary time (≥3.03 hours/day) could increase MCI risk, especially in APOE ε4 non-carriers, people with higher PA, aged 65 and above.

Development of the Clinical pHysical rEsilience assEssment Scale (CHEES) in Chinese Older Adults

BACKGROUND

Physical resilience is an emerging concept that describes an individual's capacity to recover from stressors. However, few instruments are currently available for assessing physical resilience.

OBJECTIVE

To develop a scale to assess physical resilience in older adults.

DESIGN

Development of a clinical scale.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

A total of 172 hospitalized older adults were recruited.

MEASUREMENTS

This study comprised two stages. First, a pool of physical resilience scale items was created through a literature review, and the Delphi method was used to establish an initial scale. Second, the initial physical resilience scale was tested on hospitalized older adults.

RESULTS

Five primary and 19 secondary items were identified after reviewing the literature. After two rounds of expert consultations, three primary and 16 secondary items were determined. The overall Cronbach's alpha for the scale was 0.760. Except for items N2, N4, N5, N8, and N14, Pearson's correlation between the scores of the remaining items and the total score ranged from 0.407 to 0.672. Except for items N2, N4, and N5, the corrected item-total correlation results ranged from 0.301 to 0.580, indicating good consistency between each item and the overall scale. Factor analysis showed that except for N7, the factor loadings of the remaining items were between 0.584 and 0.844. After expert discussions, items N2, N4, N7, and N14 were included in the scale, and items N5 and N8 were removed.

CONCLUSION

A 14-item physical resilience scale, CHEES, was developed to assess physical resilience levels in older adults.

Diagnostic performance of SPECT in lumbar spondylolysis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

To evaluate the diagnostic value and clinical applicability of single-photon-emission computed tomography (SPECT) for lumbar spondylolysis using meta-analysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Stata 12.0, was used to test the heterogeneity, and the pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, diagnostic odds ratio, and other effect sizes were collected to generate the summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curve for comprehensive evaluation. Meta-regression analysis was used to explore the source of heterogeneity, and subgroup analysis was performed. Funnel plots, Fagan's line diagrams, and likelihood ratio dot plots were drawn to evaluate publication bias and clinical applicability.

RESULTS

Eight studies involving 785 patients were included. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, odds ratio, and area under the SROC curve of SPECT for the diagnosis of lumbar spondylolysis were 0.85 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.70 0.93), 0.92 (95% CI: 0.60 0.99), 11.01 (95% CI: 1.61 75.18), 0.17 (95% CI: 0.08 0.35), 0.92 (95% CI: 0.90 0.94). Meta-regression analysis showed that the sources of heterogeneity were region and age. Subgroup analysis showed that the specificity of the child and adolescent subgroup was significantly higher than that of the middle-aged and elderly subgroups. Deek's funnel plots showed no significant publication bias. The pooled effect of the likelihood ratio dot plot for diagnosis is in the upper-right quadrant.

CONCLUSION

As a diagnostic tool for spondylolysis, SPECT has a high degree of specificity, moderate sensitivity, and relatively high diagnostic effectiveness. It can be used as an auxiliary sign in the diagnosis and treatment of lumbar spondylolysis.

Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer Network Trials Unit (DIAN-TU): Trial Satisfaction and Attitudes towards Future Clinical Trials

BACKGROUND

Clinical trial satisfaction is increasingly important for future trial designs and is associated with treatment adherence and willingness to enroll in future research studies or to recommend trial participation. In this post-trial survey, we examined participant satisfaction and attitudes toward future clinical trials in the Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer Network Trials Unit (DIAN-TU).

METHODS

We developed an anonymous, participant satisfaction survey tailored to participants enrolled in the DIAN-TU-001 double-blind clinical trial of solanezumab or gantenerumab and requested that all study sites share the survey with their trial participants. A total of 194 participants enrolled in the trial at 24 study sites. We utilized regression analysis to explore the link between participants' clinical trial experiences, their satisfaction, and their willingness to participate in upcoming trials.

RESULTS

Survey responses were received over a sixteen-month window during 2020-2021 from 58 participants representing 15 study sites. Notably, 96.5% of the survey respondents expressed high levels of satisfaction with the trial, 91.4% would recommend trial participation, and 96.5% were willing to enroll again. Age, gender, and education did not influence satisfaction levels. Participants reported enhanced medical care (70.7%) and pride in contributing to the DIAN-TU trial (84.5%). Satisfaction with personnel and procedures was high (98.3%). Respondents had a mean age of 48.7 years, with most being from North America and Western Europe, matching the trial's demographic distribution. Participants' decisions to learn their genetic status increased during the trial, and most participants endorsed considering future trial participation regardless of the DIAN-TU-001 trial outcome.

CONCLUSION

Results suggest that DIAN-TU-001 participants who responded to the survey exhibited high motivation to participate in research, overall satisfaction with the clinical trial, and willingness to participate in research in the future, despite a long trial duration of 4-7 years with detailed annual clinical, cognitive, PET, MRI, and lumbar puncture assessments. Implementation of features that alleviate barriers and challenges to trial participation is like to have a high impact on trial satisfaction and reduce participant burden.

AI's deep dive into complex pediatric inguinal hernia issues: a challenge to traditional guidelines?

OBJECTIVE

This study utilized ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence program based on large language models, to explore controversial issues in pediatric inguinal hernia surgery and compare its responses with the guidelines of the European Association of Pediatric Surgeons (EUPSA).

METHODS

Six contentious issues raised by EUPSA were submitted to ChatGPT 4.0 for analysis, for which two independent responses were generated for each issue. These generated answers were subsequently compared with systematic reviews and guidelines. To ensure content accuracy and reliability, a content analysis was conducted, and expert evaluations were solicited for validation. Content analysis evaluated the consistency or discrepancy between ChatGPT 4.0's responses and the guidelines. An expert scoring method assess the quality, reliability, and applicability of responses. The TF-IDF model tested the stability and consistency of the two responses.

RESULTS

The responses generated by ChatGPT 4.0 were mostly consistent with the guidelines. However, some differences and contradictions were noted. The average quality score was 3.33, reliability score was 2.75, and applicability score was 3.46 (out of 5). The average similarity between the two responses was 0.72 (out of 1), Content analysis and expert ratings yielded consistent conclusions, enhancing the credibility of our research.

CONCLUSION

ChatGPT can provide valuable responses to clinical questions, but it has limitations and requires further improvement. It is recommended to combine ChatGPT with other reliable data sources to improve clinical practice and decision-making.

Lasofoxifene versus fulvestrant for ER+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer with an ESR1 mutation: results from the randomized, phase II ELAINE 1 trial

BACKGROUND

Acquired estrogen receptor alpha (ER/ESR1) mutations commonly cause endocrine resistance in ER+ metastatic breast cancer (mBC). Lasofoxifene, a novel selective ER modulator, stabilizes an antagonist conformation of wild-type and ESR1-mutated ER-ligand binding domains, and has antitumor activity in ESR1-mutated xenografts.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this open-label, randomized, phase II, multicenter, ELAINE 1 study (NCT03781063), we randomized women with ESR1-mutated, ER+/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 negative (HER2-) mBC that had progressed on an aromatase inhibitor (AI) plus a cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 inhibitor (CDK4/6i) to oral lasofoxifene 5 mg daily or IM fulvestrant 500 mg (days 1, 15, and 29, and then every 4 weeks) until disease progression/toxicity. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS); secondary endpoints were safety/tolerability.

RESULTS

A total of 103 patients received lasofoxifene (n = 52) or fulvestrant (n = 51). The most current efficacy analysis showed that lasofoxifene did not significantly prolong median PFS compared with fulvestrant: 24.2 weeks (∼5.6 months) versus 16.2 weeks (∼3.7 months; P = 0.138); hazard ratio 0.699 (95% confidence interval 0.434-1.125). However, PFS and other clinical endpoints numerically favored lasofoxifene: clinical benefit rate (36.5% versus 21.6%; P = 0.117), objective response rate [13.2% (including a complete response in one lasofoxifene-treated patient) versus 2.9%; P = 0.124], and 6-month (53.4% versus 37.9%) and 12-month (30.7% versus 14.1%) PFS rates. Most common treatment-emergent adverse events with lasofoxifene were nausea, fatigue, arthralgia, and hot flushes. One death occurred in the fulvestrant arm. Circulating tumor DNA ESR1 mutant allele fraction (MAF) decreased from baseline to week 8 in 82.9% of evaluable lasofoxifene-treated versus 61.5% of fulvestrant-treated patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Lasofoxifene demonstrated encouraging antitumor activity versus fulvestrant and was well tolerated in patients with ESR1-mutated, endocrine-resistant mBC following progression on AI plus CDK4/6i. Consistent with target engagement, lasofoxifene reduced ESR1 MAF, and to a greater extent than fulvestrant. Lasofoxifene may be a promising targeted treatment for patients with ESR1-mutated mBC and warrants further investigation.

Cellular and Molecular Connections Between Bone Fracture Healing and Exosomes

Fracture healing is a multifaceted process that requires various phases and intercellular interactions. In recent years, investigations have been conducted to assess the feasibility of utilizing exosomes, small extracellular vesicles (EVs), to enhance and accelerate the healing process. Exosomes serve as a cargo transport platform, facilitating intercellular communication, promoting the presentation of antigens to dendritic cells, and stimulating angiogenesis. Exosomes have a special structure that gives them a special function, especially in the healing process of bone injuries. This article provides an overview of cellular and molecular processes associated with bone fracture healing, as well as a survey of existing exosome research in this context. We also discuss the potential use of exosomes in fracture healing, as well as the obstacles that must be overcome to make this a viable clinical practice.

Hyperon Polarization along the Beam Direction Relative to the Second and Third Harmonic Event Planes in Isobar Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=200 GeV

The polarization of Λ and Λ[over ¯] hyperons along the beam direction has been measured relative to the second and third harmonic event planes in isobar Ru+Ru and Zr+Zr collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=200  GeV. This is the first experimental evidence of the hyperon polarization by the triangular flow originating from the initial density fluctuations. The amplitudes of the sine modulation for the second and third harmonic results are comparable in magnitude, increase from central to peripheral collisions, and show a mild p_{T} dependence. The azimuthal angle dependence of the polarization follows the vorticity pattern expected due to elliptic and triangular anisotropic flow, and qualitatively disagrees with most hydrodynamic model calculations based on thermal vorticity and shear induced contributions. The model results based on one of existing implementations of the shear contribution lead to a correct azimuthal angle dependence, but predict centrality and p_{T} dependence that still disagree with experimental measurements. Thus, our results provide stringent constraints on the thermal vorticity and shear-induced contributions to hyperon polarization. Comparison to previous measurements at RHIC and the LHC for the second-order harmonic results shows little dependence on the collision system size and collision energy.

Analysis of coastline changes under the impact of human activities during 1985-2020 in Tianjin, China

The accurate evaluation of shoreline movement is a crucial aspect for managing highly dynamic coasts. This study employed Landsat TM and OLI data through the Digital Shoreline Analysis System model to quantify changes in the spatiotemporal distribution of Tianjin's coastline from 1985 to 2020. The results showed that the coastline length (CL) increased by 178 km and 151% over the past 36 years, with an average increase of 5.1 km/a. Accretion and erosion processes along the entire coast were observed at rates of 83.9% and 16.1%, respectively. Notably, the Tianjin Port Area and Nangang Industrial Zone showed remarkable changes in the shoreline in 2009. Night lights (NL) were used to display the intensity of human activity in this area, and the spatial heterogeneity of night light intensity was significant. Compared to the total night light (TNL) in 1985, it increased by 116% in 2020. The relationship between TNL and CL was then established and displayed a significant positive correlation (r = 0.91). With the increasing total night light, the growth of the CL presented changes with an initial slow increase, then rapid increase, and finally slow increase. In the second phase of TNL, the CL experienced a considerable increase due to anthropogenic activities such as land reclamation and port construction, fueled primarily by government policies during the period of 2005-2013. Subsequently, there was little change in the coastline. These findings provide valuable insights into spatiotemporal coastline monitoring programs and sustainable coastal management.

Observation of New Baryons in the Ξ_{b}^{-}π^{+}π^{-} and Ξ_{b}^{0}π^{+}π^{-} Systems

The first observation and study of two new baryonic structures in the final state Ξ_{b}^{0}π^{+}π^{-} and the confirmation of the Ξ_{b}(6100)^{-} state in the Ξ_{b}^{-}π^{+}π^{-} decay mode are reported using proton-proton collision data collected by the LHCb experiment, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 9  fb^{-1}. In addition, the properties of the known Ξ_{b}^{*0}, Ξ_{b}^{'-} and Ξ_{b}^{*-} resonances are measured with improved precision. The new decay mode of the Ξ_{b}^{0} baryon to the Ξ_{c}^{+} π^{-} π^{+} π^{-} final state is observed and exploited for the first time in these measurements.

Precision Measurement of CP Violation in the Penguin-Mediated Decay B_{s}^{0}→ϕϕ

A flavor-tagged time-dependent angular analysis of the decay B_{s}^{0}→ϕϕ is performed using pp collision data collected by the LHCb experiment at the center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 6  fb^{-1}. The CP-violating phase and direct CP-violation parameter are measured to be ϕ_{s}^{ss[over ¯]s}=-0.042±0.075±0.009  rad and |λ|=1.004±0.030±0.009, respectively, assuming the same values for all polarization states of the ϕϕ system. In these results, the first uncertainties are statistical and the second systematic. These parameters are also determined separately for each polarization state, showing no evidence for polarization dependence. The results are combined with previous LHCb measurements using pp collisions at center-of-mass energies of 7 and 8 TeV, yielding ϕ_{s}^{ss[over ¯]s}=-0.074±0.069  rad and |λ|=1.009±0.030. This is the most precise study of time-dependent CP violation in a penguin-dominated B meson decay. The results are consistent with CP symmetry and with the standard model predictions.

Measurement of the Λ_{b}^{0}→Λ(1520)μ^{+}μ^{-} Differential Branching Fraction

The branching fraction of the rare decay Λ_{b}^{0}→Λ(1520)μ^{+}μ^{-} is measured for the first time, in the squared dimuon mass intervals q^{2}, excluding the J/ψ and ψ(2S) regions. The data sample analyzed was collected by the LHCb experiment at center-of-mass energies of 7, 8, and 13 TeV, corresponding to a total integrated luminosity of 9  fb^{-1}. The result in the highest q^{2} interval, q^{2}>15.0  GeV^{2}/c^{4}, where theoretical predictions have the smallest model dependence, agrees with the predictions.

Clinical Implementation of Optical Surface Imaging Systems in Vulvar Cancer to Reduce Setup Error

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Optical surface monitoring system (OSMS) could achieve continuous monitoring of patient position through a nonradiographic and noninvasive technology, which has been widely applied to many sites of radiation therapy including breast, intracranial, head and neck, abdomen, and the extremities. However, no study has investigated the application of OSMS in radiation therapy of vulvar cancer. In this study, we hypothesized using OSMS would reduce setup error in the vulvar cancer compared to standard laser-based setup (SLS).

MATERIALS/METHODS

A single-center prospective trial included 10 patients with vulvar cancer treated with intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) for a total of 250 fractions. Every patient was immobilized with Styrofoam in a frog-leg position and used marks on the patient's skin to align to the room lasers for pre-setup. The treatment couch values of lateral (Lat), longitudinal (Lng), vertical (Vrt) in three translation directions and Rtn (the rotation along the z axis), Pitch (the rotation along the x axis), Roll (the rotation along the y axis) in three rotations directions were recorded. Then completed the setup of patient with information from a surface imaging system and obtained deviation values. Setup is followed by pretreatment cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) to further verify patient and target position by registering to the planning CT with respect to bony anatomy. With CBCT as a gold standard for patient setup, the absolute values of setup error and error distribution of SLS method and OSMS method from the same patient in above six directions were compared.

RESULTS

The mean of absolute values of setup errors in the SLS method were significantly higher than those of OSMS method in Lat (0.34cm vs 0.20cm), Lng (0.42cm vs 0.29cm), Vrt (0.43cm vs 0.28cm) and Rtn (0.90° vs 0.67°) directions (P<0.05). The mean errors in SLS and OSMS methods in Pitch and Roll directions were 0.93° and 1.02° (P = 0.16), 0.42° and 0.45° (P = 0.48), respectively, with no significant difference. In the OSMS method, the distribution rates of the setup errors within 0.5cm in three translation directions and within 1.5° in three rotations directions were significantly higher in Lat (90.8% vs 80.4%), Lng (82.0% vs 68.8%), Vrt (83.2% vs 65.6%), and Rtn (91.2% vs 80.4%) directions than those of SLS method (P<0.05). In the Pitch (79.2% vs 80.4%) and Roll (97.2% vs 98.0%) directions, the distribution rates of the OSMS method were slightly lower than those of the SLS method, with no significant difference (P = 0.738 and P = 0.559).

CONCLUSION

The implementation of OSMS in IMRT for vulvar cancer could reduce setup error and increase precision of setup, especially for the directions of Lat, Lng, Vrt and Rtn.

Reducing CTV to PTV Margins with Daily Adaptive Radiotherapy in the Postoperative Treatment of Endometrial and Cervical Cancer

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

In the postoperative treatment of endometrial and cervical cancer, a PTV expansion of 1.5cm or greater would be generally recommended to ensure adequate coverage of CTV with no or minimal image guidance. Online adaptive radiotherapy (oART) has demonstrated to be feasible to reduce inter-fractional radiotherapy errors as it re-optimizes treatment plan every fraction. In this study, we hypothesized using daily cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT)-guided oART would reduce CTV to PTV margins in the postoperative treatment of endometrial and cervical cancer.

MATERIALS/METHODS

Seven patients from a single-center with postoperative endometrial and cervical cancer treated with daily CBCT-guided oART were retrospectively reviewed. A total dose of 45Gy is prescribed in CTV-vaginal cuff (CTV-V) and CTV- regional lymph nodes (CTV-N) with daily fractions of 1.8Gy for five fractions per week. A total of 175 radiotherapy fractions of daily pre-treatment CBCTs and post-treatment CBCTs scans were uploaded to oART emulator for CTV-V and CTV-N contouring by a single observer. CTVpre to PTVpre margins of 5, 7, 10, 12, 15mm was used in all directions. Each post-treatment CBCT was rigidly registered to the pre-treatment CBCT with respect to bony anatomy. The CTVpost was projected onto the PTVpre and assess required planning margins to encompass the CTVpost.

RESULTS

The average total treatment time (post-treatment CBCTs - pre-treatment CBCTs) was 23 min 14s (range: 18min 53s ∼ 28min 53s). For all fractions, the adapted plan was selected, and the volume of the PTV-V and PTV-N receiving 100% of the prescribed dose or more (V100%) was more than required 95%. A uniform three-dimensional CTV-Npre to PTV-Npre margin of 5mm could encompass CTV-Npost in all fractions (100%; 175/175f). A uniform three-dimensional CTV-Vpre to PTV-Vpre margin of 10mm could encompass CTV-Vpost in all fractions (100%; 175/175f) and 5mm could encompass 98% fractions (172/175f). In the fractions of 5mm margins that failed to encompass CTV-Vpost, the volume of CTV missed three times in anterior-posterior directions and once in lateral direction. Compared with scheduled plan, adapted plan with 5mm margins significantly reduced the mean dose to bladder (Dmean: 103.97 cGy vs 107.20 cGy, P<0.05) and rectum (Dmean: 117.82 cGy vs 123.67 cGy, P<0.05), and achieved better PTV-N (V100%: 97.8% vs 90.0%, P<0.05) and PTV-V (V100%:96.8% vs 85.4%, P<0.05) dose coverage in 175 fractions.

CONCLUSION

In this study, 5mm CTV to PTV margins was adequate to encompass 100% fractions of CTV-N and 98% fractions of the CTV-V. Adapted plan with 5mm margins significantly reduced the dose to critical organ at risks while improving target coverage.

Observation of New Ω_{c}^{0} States Decaying to the Ξ_{c}^{+}K^{-} Final State

Two new excited states, Ω_{c}(3185)^{0} and Ω_{c}(3327)^{0}, are observed in the Ξ_{c}^{+}K^{-} invariant-mass spectrum using proton-proton collision data collected by the LHCb experiment, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 9  fb^{-1}. Five previously observed excited Ω_{c}^{0} states are confirmed, namely Ω_{c}(3000)^{0}, Ω_{c}(3050)^{0}, Ω_{c}(3065)^{0}, Ω_{c}(3090)^{0}, and Ω_{c}(3119)^{0}. The masses and widths of these seven states are measured with the highest precision to date.

Evidence of a J/ψK_{S}^{0} Structure in B^{0}→J/ψϕK_{S}^{0} Decays

An amplitude analysis of B^{0}→J/ψϕK_{S}^{0} decays is performed using proton-proton collision data, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 9  fb^{-1}, collected with the LHCb detector at center-of-mass energies of 7, 8, and 13 TeV. Evidence with a significance of 4.0 standard deviations of a structure in the J/ψK_{S}^{0} system, named T_{ψs1}^{θ}(4000)^{0}, is seen, with its mass and width measured to be 3991_{-10}^{+12} _{-17}^{+9}  MeV/c^{2} and 105_{-25}^{+29} _{-23}^{+17}  MeV, respectively, where the first uncertainty is statistical and the second systematic. The T_{ψs1}^{θ}(4000)^{0} state is likely to be the isospin partner of the T_{ψs1}^{θ}(4000)^{+} state, previously observed in the J/ψK^{+} system of the B^{+}→J/ψϕK^{+} decay. When isospin symmetry for the charged and neutral T_{ψs1}^{θ}(4000) states is assumed, the signal significance increases to 5.4 standard deviations.

Measurement of the Ratios of Branching Fractions R(D^{*}) and R(D^{0})

The ratios of branching fractions R(D^{*})≡B(B[over ¯]→D^{*}τ^{-}ν[over ¯]_{τ})/B(B[over ¯]→D^{*}μ^{-}ν[over ¯]_{μ}) and R(D^{0})≡B(B^{-}→D^{0}τ^{-}ν[over ¯]_{τ})/B(B^{-}→D^{0}μ^{-}ν[over ¯]_{μ}) are measured, assuming isospin symmetry, using a sample of proton-proton collision data corresponding to 3.0  fb^{-1} of integrated luminosity recorded by the LHCb experiment during 2011 and 2012. The tau lepton is identified in the decay mode τ^{-}→μ^{-}ν_{τ}ν[over ¯]_{μ}. The measured values are R(D^{*})=0.281±0.018±0.024 and R(D^{0})=0.441±0.060±0.066, where the first uncertainty is statistical and the second is systematic. The correlation between these measurements is ρ=-0.43. The results are consistent with the current average of these quantities and are at a combined 1.9 standard deviations from the predictions based on lepton flavor universality in the standard model.

Mechanism of RBBP8-mediated homologous recombination repair in gastric cancer synthetic lethal

Background

It is of great clinical significance to further explore new strategies and potential combined therapeutic targets for gastric cancer. This study aimed to investigate the synthetic lethal effect of RBBP8 molecular intervention combined with a poly ADP ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitor in non-BRCA mutant gastric cancer and clarify the mechanism by which RBBP8 regulates homologous recombination repair.

Methods

The role of RBBP8 in DNA damage repair was observed using bioinformatic analysis, western blot analysis, and immunofluorescence. The synthetic lethal effect was verified using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium, inner salt (MTS)and flow cytometry apoptosis experiments.

Results

Among the patients with gastric cancer treated with chemotherapy, the prognosis of patients with high RBBP8 expression levels was worse (homologous recombination [HR] = 1.54, p = 0.028). RBBP8 knockdown induced DNA damage and had a synergistic effect with PARP inhibitor treatment on cell viability inhibition and cell apoptosis in AGS (generic code for human gastric adenocarcinoma cells) (t = 11.154, p < 0.001) and N87 (t = 6.362, p < 0.001) cells. RBBP8 knockdown inhibited RAD51 activation and DNA terminal excision in homologous recombination repair.

Conclusion

RBBP8 is involved in homologous recombination repair, and molecular intervention into RBBP8 could achieve a synthetic lethal effect with PARP inhibitor treatment in gastric cancer cells.

Measurement of the Branching Fractions B(B^{0}→pp[over ¯]pp[over ¯]) and B(B_{s}^{0}→pp[over ¯]pp[over ¯])

Searches for the rare hadronic decays B^{0}→pp[over ¯]pp[over ¯] and B_{s}^{0}→pp[over ¯]pp[over ¯] are performed using proton-proton collision data recorded by the LHCb experiment and corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 9  fb^{-1}. Significances of 9.3σ and 4.0σ, including statistical and systematic uncertainties, are obtained for the B^{0}→pp[over ¯]pp[over ¯] and B_{s}^{0}→pp[over ¯]pp[over ¯] signals, respectively. The branching fractions are measured relative to the topologically similar normalization decays B^{0}→J/ψ(→pp[over ¯])K^{*0}(→K^{+}π^{-}) and B_{s}^{0}→J/ψ(→pp[over ¯])⁢ϕ(→K^{+}K^{-}). The branching fractions are measured to be B(B^{0}→pp[over ¯]pp[over ¯])=(2.2±0.4±0.1±0.1)×10^{-8} and B(B_{s}^{0}→pp[over ¯]pp[over ¯])=(2.3±1.0±0.2±0.1)×10^{-8}. In these measurements, the first uncertainty is statistical, the second is systematic, and the third one is due to the external branching fraction of the normalization channel.

Erratum: Global Polarization of Ξ and Ω Hyperons in Au+Au Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=200 GeV [Phys. Rev. Lett. 126, 162301 (2021)]

This corrects the article DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.126.162301.

[Clinical effects of free perforator propeller myocutaneous flap from buttock in repairing complex wounds in the buttock with deep dead cavity]

Objective: To investigate the feasibility and clinical effects of using free perforator propeller myocutaneous flap from buttock in repairing complex wounds in the buttock with deep dead cavity. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted. From June 2020 to June 2022, 9 patients with complex wounds in the buttock with deep dead cavity who met the inclusion criteria were admitted to Lanzhou University Second Hospital, including 6 males and 3 females, aged 26 to 62 years, with original wound area ranging from 4.0 cm×3.0 cm to 8.0 cm×7.0 cm and dead cavity depth of 7 to 11 cm. All the wounds were repaired with free perforator propeller myocutaneous flap from buttock, with flap area of 6.0 cm×2.5 cm to 13.0 cm×7.0 cm and muscle flap length of 6 to 11 cm. All the wounds in the donor area were closed and sutured directly. Postoperative myocutaneous flap survival, complications, as well as donor and recipient wound healing were observed, and the shape of donor and recipient areas were followed up. Results: Congestion occurred under the myocutaneous flap of one patient due to poor drainage on post surgery day 2, which was healed after 15 days of drainage and dressing change. The myocutaneous flaps of other patients survived successfully after surgery. The wounds in the donor and recipient areas were all well healed. During the follow-up of 3 to 10 months, the donor and recipient areas were full in shape, with little difference from the healthy side, and were able to bear pressure. Conclusions: The free perforator propeller myocutaneous flap from buttock can repair the deep dead cavity and surface wounds at the same time. The use of this myocutaneous flap in repairing complex wounds in the buttock with deep dead cavity results in minimal damage to the donor area, allows pressure-bearing of the donor and recipient areas after surgery, and ensures a full buttock shape.

Test of Lepton Universality in b→sℓ^{+}ℓ^{-} Decays

The first simultaneous test of muon-electron universality using B^{+}→K^{+}ℓ^{+}ℓ^{-} and B^{0}→K^{*0}ℓ^{+}ℓ^{-} decays is performed, in two ranges of the dilepton invariant-mass squared, q^{2}. The analysis uses beauty mesons produced in proton-proton collisions collected with the LHCb detector between 2011 and 2018, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 9  fb^{-1}. Each of the four lepton universality measurements reported is either the first in the given q^{2} interval or supersedes previous LHCb measurements. The results are compatible with the predictions of the Standard Model.

First Observation of a Doubly Charged Tetraquark and Its Neutral Partner

A combined amplitude analysis is performed for the decays B^{0}→D[over ¯]^{0}D_{s}^{+}π^{-} and B^{+}→D^{-}D_{s}^{+}π^{+}, which are related by isospin symmetry. The analysis is based on data collected by the LHCb detector in proton-proton collisions at center-of-mass energies of 7, 8, and 13 TeV. The full data sample corresponds to an integrated luminosity of 9  fb^{-1}. Two new resonant states with masses of 2.908±0.011±0.020  GeV and widths of 0.136±0.023±0.013  GeV are observed, which decay to D_{s}^{+}π^{+} and D_{s}^{+}π^{-} respectively. The former state indicates the first observation of a doubly charged open-charm tetraquark state with minimal quark content [cs[over ¯]ud[over ¯]], and the latter state is a neutral tetraquark composed of [cs[over ¯]u[over ¯]d] quarks. Both states are found to have spin-parity of 0^{+}, and their resonant parameters are consistent with each other, which suggests that they belong to an isospin triplet.

Search for Rare Decays of D^{0} Mesons into Two Muons

A search for the very rare D^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-} decay is performed using data collected by the LHCb experiment in proton-proton collisions at sqrt[s]=7, 8, and 13 TeV, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 9  fb^{-1}. The search is optimized for D^{0} mesons from D^{*+}→D^{0}π^{+} decays but is also sensitive to D^{0} mesons from other sources. No evidence for an excess of events over the expected background is observed. An upper limit on the branching fraction of this decay is set at B(D^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-})<3.1×10^{-9} at a 90% C.L. This represents the world's most stringent limit, constraining models of physics beyond the standard model.

Observation of a J/ψΛ Resonance Consistent with a Strange Pentaquark Candidate in B^{-}→J/ψΛp[over ¯] Decays

An amplitude analysis of B^{-}→J/ψΛp[over ¯] decays is performed using 4400 signal candidates selected on a data sample of pp collisions recorded at center-of-mass energies of 7, 8, and 13 TeV with the LHCb detector, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 9  fb^{-1}. A narrow resonance in the J/ψΛ system, consistent with a pentaquark candidate with strangeness, is observed with high significance. The mass and the width of this new state are measured to be 4338.2±0.7±0.4  MeV and 7.0±1.2±1.3  MeV, where the first uncertainty is statistical and the second systematic. The spin is determined to be 1/2 and negative parity is preferred. Because of the small Q-value of the reaction, the most precise single measurement of the B^{-} mass to date, 5279.44±0.05±0.07  MeV, is obtained.

Electrochemical Performance of Corn Waste Derived Carbon Electrodes Based on the Intrinsic Biomass Properties

The exploration of cost-effective and sustainable biomass-derived carbon materials as electrodes for energy conversion and storage has gained extensive attention in recent research studies. However, the selection of the biomass and the electrochemical performance regulation of the derived biochar, as well as their interrelationship still remain challenging for practical application. Herein, corn wastes with high carbon content (>40%), corn cob and corn silk, were selected as precursors for the preparation of high value-added and high yield carbon materials via a modified synthetic process. Uniquely, this work put emphasis on the theoretical and experimental investigations of how the biomass properties influence the composition and nanostructure regulation, the electrolyte ion adsorption free energy, and the electrical conductivity of the derived carbon materials as well as their electrochemical performance optimization. Owing to the favorable specific surface area, the hierarchical porous structure, and the diverse elemental distribution, corn cob and corn silk derived carbon materials (CBC and SBC) present great potential as promising electrodes for alkaline aqueous zinc batteries and supercapacitors. The assembled CBC//Zn and SBC//Zn zinc batteries deliver high energy densities of 63.0 Wh kg^-1 and 39.1 Wh kg^-1 at a power density of 575 W kg^-1, with excellent cycling performance of 91.1% and 84.3% capacitance retention after 10,000 cycles. As for the assembled symmetric supercapacitors, high energy densities of 14.9 Wh kg^-1 and 13.6 Wh kg^-1, and superior long-term cycling stability of 99.3% and 96.6% capacitance retention after 20,000 cycles could be achieved. This study highlights the advantages of utilizing corn cob and corn silk as carbon sources on the designed synthesis of carbon electrodes, and presents a meaningful perspective in the investigation of biomass-derived carbon materials and their potential applications in rechargeable devices.

Measurements of the Elliptic and Triangular Azimuthal Anisotropies in Central ^{3}He+Au, d+Au and p+Au Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=200 GeV

The elliptic (v_{2}) and triangular (v_{3}) azimuthal anisotropy coefficients in central ^{3}He+Au, d+Au, and p+Au collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=200  GeV are measured as a function of transverse momentum (p_{T}) at midrapidity (|η|<0.9), via the azimuthal angular correlation between two particles both at |η|<0.9. While the v_{2}(p_{T}) values depend on the colliding systems, the v_{3}(p_{T}) values are system independent within the uncertainties, suggesting an influence on eccentricity from subnucleonic fluctuations in these small-sized systems. These results also provide stringent constraints for the hydrodynamic modeling of these systems.

[Analysis of tobacco dependence level and its influencing factors on Tianjin residents]

Objective: To understand the prevalence and influencing factors of tobacco dependence among the population aged 15-69 in Tianjin to provide the basis for formulating targeted smoking control intervention policies and carrying out scientific smoking cessation intervention services. Methods: The data of this study comes from the 2018 Tianjin residents' health literacy monitoring survey. Probability-proportional-to-size sampling is adopted for sampling. SPSS 26.0 software was used for data cleaning and statistical analysis, and χ² test and binary logistic regression were used to analyze the influencing factors. Results: A total of 14 641 subjects aged 15-69 were included in this study. After standardized, with a smoking rate of 25.5%, including 45.5% for men and 5.2% for women. Among the population aged 15-69, the prevalence of tobacco dependence was 10.7%; among current smokers, the prevalence rate of tobacco dependence is 40.1%, of which the prevalence rate of male tobacco dependence is 40.0%, and the prevalence rate of female tobacco dependence is 40.6%. According to multivariate logistic regression analysis, people who live in rural areas, have an education level of primary school or below, smoke every day, smoke the first cigarette ≤15 years old, smoke ≥21 cigarettes per day, and smoke for more than 20 packet years, people who report poor physical health are more likely to suffer from tobacco dependence (all P<0.05); age and smoking age did not affect the possibility of tobacco dependence (all P>0.05). Among current smokers, there was no significant difference in their willingness to quit smoking whether they had tobacco dependence (P>0.05). The proportion of people with tobacco dependence who have tried to quit smoking and failed is higher (P<0.001). Conclusions: The prevalence of tobacco dependence among smokers aged 15-69 in Tianjin is high, and the demand for quitting smoking is great. Therefore, smoking cessation publicity should be carried out for key groups, and smoking cessation intervention work in Tianjin should be continuously promoted.

[Evaluation of the clinical efficacy of minimally invasive endoscopic surgery in the treatment of isolated non-syndromic sagittal synostosis in infants]

The current study aimed to evaluate the early efficacy in infants with isolated non-syndromic sagittal synostosis who underwent minimally invasive endoscopic-assisted surgery. The clinical data of infants with isolated non-syndromic sagittal synostosis who were admitted to the Department of Neurosurgery of the Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University and underwent endoscopic-assisted surgery from October 2018 to December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. All the infants underwent minimally invasive endoscopic-assisted surgery, and were treated with supine sleeping position after surgery. Computer-aided reconstruction technique was used to reconstruct and measure the thin-slice CT scan images of the head before and 3 months after surgery, and the differences in cranial index (CI), cranial cavity volume and angle drawn between the cranial vertex, nasion, and opisthocranion (VNO angle) of preoperative and postoperative groups were analyzed. A total of 103 infants were included in the final analysis, including 85 males and 18 females. The age at surgery was (2.1±0.8) months, and the weight was (6.1±0.9) kg. The postoperative CI was (84±6)%, which increased obviously compared with the pre-operation [(70±5)%] (P<0.001). The cranial volume of post-operation was (947±130) cm³, which was larger than that of the pre-operation [(748±104) cm³] (P<0.001). The VNO angle after surgery was (45±4)°, which showed a significant reduction compared with the pre-operation [(55±4)°] (P<0.001). The correction of head shape was satisfactory. For the treatment of sagittal synostosis in infants, minimally invasive endoscopic-assisted surgery is safe and effective, and in the case of switching from an auxiliary helmet to a supine position, the postoperative correction efficacy of head shape is better.

Addressing the Smoking-Hypertension Paradox in Pregnancy: Insight from a Multiethnic US Birth Cohort

Background

Smoking during pregnancy has been associated with reduced risk of a spectrum of hypertensive (HTN) disorders, known as the "smoking-hypertension paradox."

Objective

We sought to test potential epidemiologic explanations for the smoking-hypertension paradox.

Methods

We analyzed 8,510 pregnant people in the Boston Birth Cohort, including 4,027 non-Hispanic Black and 2,428 Hispanic pregnancies. Study participants self-reported tobacco, alcohol, cannabis, opioids, or cocaine use during pregnancy. We used logistic regression to assess effect modification by race/ethnicity, and confounding of concurrent substances on hypertensive disorders or prior pregnancy. We also investigated early gestational age as a collider or competing risk for pre-eclampsia, using cause-specific Cox models and Fine-Gray models, respectively.

Results

We replicated the paradox showing smoking to be protective against hypertensive disorders among Black participants who used other substances as well (aOR: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.41, 0.93), but observed null effects for Hispanic participants (aOR: 1.14, 95% CI: 0.55, 2.36). In our cause-specific Cox regression, the effects of tobacco use were reduced to null effects with pre-eclampsia (aOR: 0.81, 95% CI: 0.63, 1.04) after stratifying for preterm birth. For the Fine-Gray competing risk analysis, the paradoxical associations remained. The smoking paradox was either not observed or reversed after accounting for race/ethnicity, other substance use, and collider-stratification due to preterm birth.

Conclusions

These findings offer new insights into this paradox and underscore the importance of considering multiple sources of bias in assessing the smoking-hypertension association in pregnancy.

A new strategy: high level expression and immunogenicity analysis of triplicate repeated multigenes in Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae

Highly immunogenic nucleotide fragments from 3 genes of Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae strain 232 were selected using information software technology. After repeating each fragment three times, a total of 9 nucleotide fragments were joined together to form a new nucleotide sequence called Mhp232_1092bp. Mhp232_1092bp was directly synthesized and cloned into a pET100 vector and expressed in Escherichia coli. After purification, the proteins were successfully validated by SDS-PAGE and Western blotting using mouse His-tag antibody and pig anti-Mhp serum. BALB/c mice were intraperitoneally injected with purified proteins in the high-dose (100 μg), medium-dose group (50 μg) and low-dose (10 μg) groups. Mice in each group were injected on day 1, day 8 and day 15 of feeding, respectively. Serum samples were collected from all mice on the day before immunization and on day 22 after immunization. The antibody level in the mouse serum was detected using western blotting using purified expressed proteins as antigens. IL-2, TNF-α and IFN-γ were simultaneously detected in the mouse serum by ELISA. The results showed that the 60 kDa protein was successfully expressed and reacted specifically with the specific serum Mhp His-Tag mouse monoclonal antibody and pig anti-Mhp serum. From day 0 to day 22 of immunization, IFN-γ increased from 269.52 to 467.74 pg/mL, IL-2 increased from 14.03 to 145.16 pg/mL, and TNF-α increased from 6.86 to 12.37 pg/mL. The IgG antibody in mice increased significantly from 0 day to day 22 after immunization. This study suggests that the expressed recombinant protein may serve as one of the novel vaccine candidates for Mhp.