Effects of Lycium barbarum polysaccharide on cytokines in adolescents with subthreshold depression: a randomized controlled study

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202409000-00036/figure1/v/2024-01-16T170235Z/r/image-tiff Strong evidence has accumulated to show a correlation between depression symptoms and inflammatory responses. Moreover, anti-inflammatory treatment has shown partial effectiveness in alleviating depression symptoms. Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP), derived from Goji berries, exhibits notable antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. In our recent double-blinded randomized placebo-controlled trial, we found that LBP significantly reduced depressive symptoms in adolescents with subthreshold depression. It is presumed that the antidepressant effect of LBP may be associated with its influence on inflammatory cytokines. In the double-blinded randomized controlled trial, we enrolled 29 adolescents with subthreshold depression and randomly divided them into an LBP group and a placebo group. In the LBP group, adolescents were given 300 mg/d LBP. A 6-week follow up was completed by 24 adolescents, comprising 14 adolescents from the LBP group (15.36 ± 2.06 years, 3 men and 11 women) and 10 adolescents from the placebo group (14.9 ± 1.6 years, 2 men and 8 women). Our results showed that after 6 weeks of treatment, the interleukin-17A level in the LBP group was lower than that in the placebo group. Network analysis showed that LBP reduced the correlations and connectivity between inflammatory factors, which were associated with the improvement in depressive symptoms. These findings suggest that 6-week administration of LBP suppresses the immune response by reducing interleukin-17A level, thereby exerting an antidepressant effect.

Portable, intelligent MIECL sensing platform for ciprofloxacin detection using a fast convolutional neural networks-assisted Tb@Lu2O3 nanoemitter

Environmental pollution caused by ciprofloxacin is a major problem of global public health. A machine learning-assisted portable smartphone-based visualized molecularly imprinted electrochemiluminescence (MIECL) sensor was developed for the highly selective and sensitive detection of ciprofloxacin (CFX) in food. To boost the efficiency of electrochemiluminescence (ECL), oxygen vacancies (OVs) enrichment was introduced into the flower-like Tb@Lu2O3 nanoemitter. With the specific recognition reaction between MIP as capture probes and CFX as detection target, the ECL signal significantly decreased. According to, CFX analysis was determined by traditional ECL analyzer detector in the concentration range from 5 × 10-4 to 5 × 102 μmol L-1 with the detection limit (LOD) of 0.095 nmol L-1 (S/N = 3). Analysis of luminescence images using fast electrochemiluminescence judgment network (FEJ-Net) models, achieving portable and intelligent quick analysis of CFX. The proposed MIECL sensor was used for CFX analysis in real meat samples and satisfactory results, as well as efficient selectivity and good stability.

A multi-omics study reveals the therapeutic effect of Linderae Radix water extract on irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Linderae Radix (Lindera aggregata (Sims) Kosterm) is a traditional Chinese medicine known for its capability to regulate qi and relieve pain, particularly in the context of gastrointestinal disorders.

AIM OF THE STUDY

While our previous research has demonstrated the efficacy of the Linderae Radix water extract (LRWE) in the treatment of diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D), the precise mechanisms remain elusive. This study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the therapeutic effects of LRWE on IBS-D through multi-omics techniques.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

16 S rRNA gene sequencing combined with LC-MS metabolomics was employed to investigate the effect of LRWE on the gut microbiota and metabolites of IBS-D rats. Spearman correlation analysis was performed on the gut microbiota and metabolites.

RESULTS

LRWE administration significantly ameliorated IBS-D rats' symptoms, including diarrhea, visceral hypersensitivity, and low-grade intestinal inflammation. Gut microbiota analysis revealed that LRWE influenced the diversity of the gut microbiota in IBS-D rats by significantly reducing the relative abundance of Patescibacteria and Candidatus Saccharimonas, while increasing the relative abundance of Jeotgalicoccus. Serum metabolomic analysis identified 16 differential metabolites, associated with LRWE's positive effects on IBS-D symptoms, focusing on glyoxylate and dicarboxylic acid metabolism, and cysteine and methionine metabolism. Spearman analysis demonstrated a strong correlation between cecal microbiota composition and serum metabolite levels.

CONCLUSIONS

This study elucidates that LRWE plays a crucial role in the comprehensive therapeutic approach to IBS-D by restoring the relative abundance of gut microbiota and addressing the disturbed metabolism of endogenous biomarkers. The identified bacteria and metabolites present potential therapeutic targets for IBS-D.

Upregulation of circ0000381 attenuates microglial/macrophage pyroptosis after spinal cord injury

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202406000-00041/inline-graphic1/v/2023-10-30T152229Z/r/image-tiff

Neuroinflammation exacerbates secondary damage after spinal cord injury, while microglia/macrophage pyroptosis is important to neuroinflammation. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play a role in the central nervous system. However, the functional role and mechanism of circRNAs in regulating microglia/macrophage pyroptosis after spinal cord injury are still poorly studied. In the present study, we detected microglia/macrophage pyroptosis in a female rat model of spinal cord injury, along with upregulated levels of circ0000381 in the spinal cord. Our further experimental results suggest that circ0000381 may function as a sponge to sequester endogenous microRNA423-3p (miR-423-3p), which can increase the expression of NOD-like receptor 3 (NLRP3), a pyroptosis marker. Therefore, upregulation of circ0000381 may be a compensatory change after spinal cord injury to attenuate microglia/macrophage pyroptosis. Indeed, knockdown of circ0000381 expression exacerbated microglia/macrophage pyroptosis. Collectively, our findings provide novel evidence for the upregulation of circ0000381, which may serve as a neuroprotective mechanism to attenuate microglia/macrophage pyroptosis after spinal cord injury. Accordingly, circ0000381 may be a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of spinal cord injury.

New breakthrough in rapid degradation of lignin derivative compounds · A novel high stable and reusable green organic photocatalyst

The pulp and paper sectors are thriving yet pose significant environmental threats to water bodies, mainly due to the substantial release of pollutants. Lignin-derived compounds are among the most problematic of these contaminants. To address this issue, we present our initial results on utilizing organic semiconductor photocatalysis under visible light for treating lignin-derived compounds. Our investigation has been centered around creating a green and cost-effective organic semiconductor photocatalyst. This catalyst is designed using a structure of bagasse cellulose spheres to support PM6 (poly[(2,6-(4,8-bis(5-(2-ethylhexyl)-4-fluorothiophen-2-yl)benzo[1,2-b:4,5-b']dithiophene))-co-(1,3-di(5-thiophene-2-yl)-5,7-bis(2-ethylhexyl)-benzo[1,2-c:4,5-c']dithiophene-4,8-dione))]: MeIC (3,9-bis(2-methylene-(3-(1,1-dicyanomethylene)-cyclopentane-1,3-dione[c]-1-methyl-thiophe))-5,5,11,11-tetrakis(4-hexylphenyl)-dithieno[2,3-d:2',3'-d']-s-indaceno[1,2-b:5,6-b']-dithiophene)). This photocatalyst demonstrates remarkable efficiency, achieving over 91 % degradation of lignin-derived compounds. The superior photocatalytic performance is attributed to three main factors: (1) The ability of PM6 to broaden MeIC's absorption range from 300 to 800 nm, allowing for effective utilization of visible light; (2) the synergistic interaction between PM6 and MeIC, which ensures compatible energy levels and a vast, evenly spread surface area, promoting charge mobility and extensive donor/acceptor interfaces. This synergy significantly enhances the generation and transport of carriers, resulting in a high production of free radicals that accelerate the decomposition of organic materials; (3) The deployment of PM6:MeIC on biomass-based carriers increases the interaction surface with the organic substances. Notably, PM6: MeIC showcases outstanding durability, with its degradation efficiency remaining between 84 % and 91 % across 100 cycles. This study presents a promising approach for designing advanced photocatalysts aimed at degrading common pollutants in papermaking wastewater.

Plastic particles affect N2O release via altering core microbial metabolisms in constructed wetlands

Constructed wetlands (CWs) have been proven to effectively immobilize plastic particles. However, little is known about the differences in the impact of varying sized plastic particles on nitrous oxide (N2O) release, as well as the intervention mechanisms in CWs. Here, we built a lab-scale wetland model and introduced plastic particles of macro-, micro-, and nano-size at 100 μg/L for 370 days. The results showed that plastic particles of all sizes reduced N2O release in CWs, with the degrees being the strongest for the Nano group, followed by Micro and Macro groups. Meanwhile, 15N- and 18O-tracing experiment revealed that the ammoxidation process contributed the most N2O production, followed by denitrification. While for every N2O-releasing process, the contributing proportion of N2O in nitrification-coupled denitrification were most significantly cut down under exposing to macro-sized plastics and had an obvious increase in nitrifier denitrification in all groups, respectively. Finally, we revealed the three mechanism pathways of N2O release reduction with macro-, micro-, and nano-sized plastics by impacting carbon assimilation (RubisCO activity), ammonia oxidation (gene amo abundance and HAO activity), and N-ion transmembrane and reductase activities, respectively. Our findings thus provided novel insights into the potential effects of plastic particles in CWs as an eco-technology.

Facile synthesis of NiCoSe2@carbon anode for high-performance sodium-ion batteries

Sodium-ion batteries offer significant advantages in terms of low-temperature performance and safety. In this study, we present a straightforward synthetic approach to produce bimetallic selenide NiCoSe2 nanoparticles grown on a three-dimensional porous carbon framework for application as anode materials in sodium-ion batteries. This unique architecture enhances reaction kinetics and structural stability. The three-dimensional interconnected porous carbon network establishes a continuous pathway of electronic conductive, while increasing specific surface area and mitigating volume expansion. Consequently, these features expedite ion transfer and enhance electrolyte interaction. Notably, compared to CoSe, NiCoSe2 exhibits reduced ion transport distances and lower sodium diffusion barriers. Leveraging these attributes, NiCoSe2/N, Se co-doped carbon composite materials (NiCoSe2/NSC) demonstrate a high specific capacity of 320.8 mAh/g, even after 1000 cycles at 5.0 A/g, with a capacity retention rate of 85.1%. The study further delves into the revelation of the reaction mechanism and ion transport pathway through in-situ X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis and theoretical calculations. The development of these anode materials is poised to pave the way for advancements in sodium-ion battery technology.

A series of viologen/POM materials with discoloration properties under the stimulation of X-ray, UV, electricity, and organic amines

At present, viologen-based compounds can undergo reversible chemical/physical changes under external stimuli such as light and electricity. This makes these compounds have potential applications in smart windows, displays, and sensors. In order to obtain such materials, three viologen-POM inorganic-organic hybrid compounds have been successfully synthesized by a hydrothermal method, namely {[Cu2(cybpy)8(α-P2W18O62)2}·18H2O (1), (Hbpy)·(cybpy)·[H4(α-P2W18O62)]}·32H2O (2) and {(Hcybpy)2(β-Mo8O26)}·2H2O (3) (cybpy·Br = 1-cyclobutylmethyl-[4,4']bipyridinyl-1-ium bromide, bpy = 4,4'-bipyridine). Three compounds exhibit good discoloration behaviors under various external stimuli, especially under the stimulation of X-ray, UV, electricity, and organic amines. In addition, in order to promote the compounds in the actual production of more applications, they were doped into the polymer matrix to construct hybrid films, which not only have the same response to external stimulation but also increase the repeatability of the photochromic process. Moreover, 1-3 powder samples in ethanol solution were ultrasonic treated and deposited on filter paper, which can be successfully used in erasable inkless printing.

Coupling Partial Nitritation, Anammox and n-DAMO in a membrane aerated biofilm reactor for simultaneous dissolved methane and nitrogen removal

Anaerobic technologies with downstream autotrophic nitrogen removal have been proposed to enhance bioenergy recovery and transform a wastewater treatment plant from an energy consumer to an energy exporter. However, approximately 20-50 % of the produced methane is dissolved in the anaerobically treated effluent and is easily stripped into the atmosphere in the downstream aerobic process, contributing to the release of greenhouse gas emissions. This study aims to develop a solution to beneficially utilize dissolved methane to support high-level nitrogen removal from anaerobically treated mainstream wastewater. A novel technology, integrating Partial Nitritation, Anammox and Methane-dependent nitrite/nitrate reduction (i.e. PNAM) was demonstrated in a membrane-aerated biofilm reactor (MABR). With the feeding of ∼50 mg NH4+-N/L and ∼20 mg/L dissolved methane at a hydraulic retention time of 15 h, around 90 % of nitrogen and ∼100 % of dissolved methane can be removed together in the MABR. Microbial community characterization revealed that ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB), nitrite-oxidizing bacteria (NOB), anammox bacteria, nitrite/nitrate-dependent anaerobic methane oxidation microorganisms (n-DAMO bacteria and archaea) and aerobic methanotrophs co-existed in the established biofilm. Batch tests confirmed the active microbial pathways and showed that AOB, anammox bacteria and n-DAMO microbes were jointly responsible for the nitrogen removal, and dissolved methane was mainly removed by the n-DAMO process, with aerobic methane oxidation making a minor contribution. In addition, the established system was robust against dynamic changes in influent composition. The study provides a promising technology for the simultaneous removal of dissolved methane and nitrogen from domestic wastewater, which can support the transformation of wastewater treatment from an energy- and carbon-intensive process, to one that is energy- and carbon-neutral.

Bioreduction of chromate in a syngas-based membrane biofilm reactor

This study leveraged synthesis gas (syngas), a renewable resource attainable through the gasification of biowaste, to achieve efficient chromate removal from water. To enhance syngas transfer efficiency, a membrane biofilm reactor (MBfR) was employed. Long-term reactor operation showed a stable and high-level chromate removal efficiency > 95%, yielding harmless Cr(III) precipitates, as visualised by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray analysis. Corresponding to the short hydraulic retention time of 0.25 days, a high chromate removal rate of 80 µmol/L/d was attained. In addition to chromate reduction, in situ production of volatile fatty acids (VFAs) by gas fermentation was observed. Three sets of in situ batch tests and two groups of ex situ batch tests jointly unravelled the mechanisms, showing that biological chromate reduction was primarily driven by VFAs produced from in situ syngas fermentation, whereas hydrogen originally present in the syngas played a minor role. 16 S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing has confirmed the enrichment of syngas-fermenting bacteria (such as Sporomusa), who performed in situ gas fermentation leading to the synthesis of VFAs, and organics-utilising bacteria (such as Aquitalea), who utilised VFAs to drive chromate reduction. These findings, combined with batch assays, elucidate the pathways orchestrating synergistic interactions between fermentative microbial cohorts and chromate-reducing microorganisms. The findings facilitate the development of cost-effective strategies for groundwater and drinking water remediation and present an alternative application scenario for syngas.

Non-canonical CRISPR/Cas12a-based technology: A novel horizon for biosensing in nucleic acid detection

Nucleic acids are essential biomarkers in molecular diagnostics. The CRISPR/Cas system has been widely used for nucleic acid detection. Moreover, canonical CRISPR/Cas12a based biosensors can specifically recognize and cleave target DNA, as well as single-strand DNA serving as reporter probe, which have become a super star in recent years in the field of nucleic acid detection due to its high specificity, universal programmability and simple operation. However, canonical CRISPR/Cas12a based biosensors are hard to meet the requirements of higher sensitivity, higher specificity, higher efficiency, larger target scope, easier operation, multiplexing, low cost and diversified signal reading. Then, advanced non-canonical CRISPR/Cas12a based biosensors emerge. In this review, applications of non-canonical CRISPR/Cas12a-based biosensors in nucleic acid detection are summarized. And the principles, peculiarities, performances and perspectives of these non-canonical CRISPR/Cas12a based biosensors are also discussed.

Temperature-resilient superior performances by coupling partial nitritation/anammox and iron-based denitrification with granular formation

Partial nitritation-anammox (PN/A), an energy-neutral process, is widely employed in the treatment of nitrogen-rich wastewater. However, the intrinsic nitrate accumulation limits the total nitrogen (TN) removal, and the practical application of PN/A continues to face a significant challenge at low temperatures (<15 °C). Here, an integrated partial nitritation-anammox and iron-based denitrification (PNAID) system was developed to address the concern. Two up-flow bioreactors were set up and operated for 400 days, with one as the control group and the other as the experiment group with the addition of Fe0. In comparison to the control group, the experiment group with the Fe0 supplement showed better nitrogen removal during the entire course of the experiment at different temperature levels. Specifically, the TN removal efficiency of the control group decreased from 82.9 % to 53.9 % when the temperature decreased from 30 to 12 °C, while in stark contrast, the experiment group consistently achieved 80 % of TN removal in the same condition. Apart from the enhanced nitrogen removal, the experiment group also exhibited better phosphorus removal (10.6 % versus 74.1 %) and organics removal (49.5 % versus 65.1 %). The enhanced and resilient nutrient removal performance of the proposed integrated process under low temperatures appeared to be attributed to the compact structure of granules and the increased microbial metabolism with Fe0 supplement, elucidated by a comprehensive analysis including microbial-specific activity, apparent activation energy, characteristics of granular sludge, and metagenomic sequencing. These results clearly confirmed that Fe0 supplement not only improved nitrogen removal of PN/A process, but also conferred a certain degree of robustness to the system in the face of temperature fluctuations.

Development and validation of a novel ankle joint musculoskeletal model

An improved understanding of contact mechanics in the ankle joint is paramount for implant design and ankle disorder treatment. However, existing models generally simplify the ankle joint as a revolute joint that cannot predict contact characteristics. The current study aimed to develop a novel musculoskeletal ankle joint model that can predict contact in the ankle joint, together with muscle and joint reaction forces. We modelled the ankle joint as a multi-axial joint and simulated contact mechanics between the tibia, fibula and talus bones in OpenSim. The developed model was validated with results from experimental studies through passive stiffness and contact. Through this, we found a similar ankle moment-rotation relationship and contact pattern between our study and experimental studies. Next, the musculoskeletal ankle joint model was incorporated into a lower body model to simulate gait. The ankle joint contact characteristics, kinematics, and muscle forces were predicted and compared to the literature. Our results revealed a comparable peak contact force and the same muscle activation patterns in four major muscles. Good agreement was also found in ankle dorsi/plantar-flexion and inversion/eversion. Thus, the developed model was able to accurately model the ankle joint and can be used to predict contact characteristics in gait.

Conditioned medium from human dental pulp stem cells treats spinal cord injury by inhibiting microglial pyroptosis

Human dental pulp stem cell transplantation has been shown to be an effective therapeutic strategy for spinal cord injury. However, whether the human dental pulp stem cell secretome can contribute to functional recovery after spinal cord injury remains unclear. In the present study, we established a rat model of spinal cord injury based on impact injury from a dropped weight and then intraperitoneally injected the rats with conditioned medium from human dental pulp stem cells. We found that the conditioned medium effectively promoted the recovery of sensory and motor functions in rats with spinal cord injury, decreased expression of the microglial pyroptosis markers NLRP3, GSDMD, caspase-1, and interleukin-1β, promoted axonal and myelin regeneration, and inhibited the formation of glial scars. In addition, in a lipopolysaccharide-induced BV2 microglia model, conditioned medium from human dental pulp stem cells protected cells from pyroptosis by inhibiting the NLRP3/caspase-1/interleukin-1β pathway. These results indicate that conditioned medium from human dental pulp stem cells can reduce microglial pyroptosis by inhibiting the NLRP3/caspase-1/interleukin-1β pathway, thereby promoting the recovery of neurological function after spinal cord injury. Therefore, conditioned medium from human dental pulp stem cells may become an alternative therapy for spinal cord injury.

Biological bromate reduction coupled with in situ gas fermentation in H2/CO2-based membrane biofilm reactor

Bromate, a carcinogenic contaminant generated in water disinfection, presents a pressing environmental concern. While biological bromate reduction is an effective remediation approach, its implementation often necessitates the addition of organics, incurring high operational costs. This study demonstrated the efficient biological bromate reduction using H2/CO2 mixture as the feedstock. A membrane biofilm reactor (MBfR) was used for the efficient delivery of gases. Long-term reactor operation showed a high-level bromate removal efficiency of above 95 %, yielding harmless bromide as the final product. Corresponding to the short hydraulic retention time of 0.25 d, a high bromate removal rate of 4 mg Br/L/d was achieved. During the long-term operation, in situ production of volatile fatty acids (VFAs) by gas fermentation was observed, which can be regulated by controlling the gas flow. Three sets of in situ batch tests and two groups of ex situ batch tests jointly unravelled the mechanisms underpinning the efficient bromate removal, showing that the microbial bromate reduction was primarily driven by the VFAs produced from in situ gas fermentation. Microbial community analysis showed an increased abundance of Bacteroidota group from 4.0 % to 18.5 %, which is capable of performing syngas fermentation, and the presence of heterotrophic denitrifiers (e.g., Thauera and Brachymonas), which are known to perform bromate reduction. Together these results for the first time demonstrated the feasibility of using H2/CO2 mixture for bromate removal coupled with in situ VFAs production. The findings can facilitate the development of cost-effective strategies for groundwater and drinking water remediation.

A new sight to acute pancreatitis through paracolic gutter exudation, a multicenter retrospective study

Objectives

Paracolic gutter exudation (PGE) may influence the severity of acute pancreatitis, but no study has explored it extensively. The objective of this study was to evaluate PGE for assessing the severity of disease.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of 488 patients from three tertiary hospitals in Guangxi, China. General clinical information, severity, and clinical courses were recorded. The PGE score were classified as follows: 0 for no exudation, 1 for unilateral exudation, and 2 for bilateral exudation. We used ROC curves to assess the predictive value of the PGE score, and logistic regression analysis to determine risk factors associated with death, ICU admission, and the occurrence of MODS.

Results

This study included 352 patients with moderately severe acute pancreatitis (MSAP) and 136 patients with severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). Patients who had PGE experienced higher total hospitalization costs, longer hospital stays, a higher incidence of SAP, higher mortality rates, higher ICU admission rates, a higher incidence of MODS, and higher incidence of infections than those without (P < 0.05). Diagnostic efficacy in predicting severity in patients with MSAP and SAP increased after BISAP, MCTSI, modified Marshall, and SOFA scores combined with PGE score respectively. The PGE score of >1 is an independent risk factor for ICU admission and MODS occurrence. (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The PGE provides reliable and objective information for assessing severity and clinical course of patients with MSAP and SAP.

Mechanistic insights into Qiteng Xiaozhuo Granules' regulation of autophagy for chronic glomerulonephritis treatment: Serum pharmacochemistry, network pharmacology, and experimental validation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Qiteng Xiaozhuo Granules (QTXZG), a traditional Chinese medicine prescription, is widely acknowledged for its therapeutic efficacy and lack of discernible toxicity in clinical practice, substantiating its potential in the treatment of chronic glomerulonephritis (CGN). Nevertheless, the specific effectiveness and underlying mechanisms of QTXZG remain insufficiently explored.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The purpose of this study was to explore the mechanism of the QTXZG in the treatment of CGN via targeting autophagy based on serum pharmacochemistry, network pharmacology, and experimental validation.

METHODS

Serum samples from SD rats orally administered QTXZG were analyzed using UPLC-QE/MS to identify contained compounds. Network and functional enrichment analyses elucidated QTXZG's targets and biological mechanisms. Reliability was ensured through molecular docking, in vivo and in vitro experiments.

RESULTS

After oral administration of QTXZG, 39 enriched compounds in serum samples collected 1 h later were identified as potential active agents, with 508 potential targets recognized as QTXZG-specific targets. Through integration of various databases, intersection analysis of QTXZG targets, CGN-related genes, and autophagy-related targets identified 10 core autophagy-related targets for QTXZG in CGN. GO and KEGG analyses emphasized their roles in autophagy, inflammation, and immune processes, particularly emphasizing the enrichment of the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway. Molecular docking results demonstrated strong binding affinities between QTXZG's key compounds and the predicted core targets. In animal experiments, QTXZG was found to ameliorate renal tissue damage in CGN model mice, significantly reducing serum creatinine (Scr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels. Importantly, both animal and cell experiments revealed QTXZG's ability to decrease excessive ROS and inflammatory factor release in mesangial cells. Furthermore, in vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed QTXZG's capacity to upregulate Beclin1 and LC3II/I expression, decrease p62 expression, and induce CGN autophagy through modulation of the AMPK/mTOR pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicated that QTXZG can induce autophagy in CGN by affecting the AMPK/mTOR pathway, and induction of autophagy may be one of the possible mechanisms of QTXZG's anti-CGN.

Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antitussive and antipyretic activities of polyphenol-enriched fraction from Nymphaea candida

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

"Snow-white waterlily" (Nymphaea candida) dried flower possesses various efficacy in Uighur medicine such as reducing fever and nourishing the liver, anti-inflammatory and cough relieving, moistening the throat and quenching thirst.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Polyphenols are characteristic component of N. candida as well as its quality markers, and the purpose of this study was to conduct investigations into anti-inflammatory, antitussive, antipyretic, and analgesic activities of the polyphenol-enriched fraction from N. candida (NCTP) in order to validate the traditional efficacy of this plant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The polyphenols in NCTP were analyzed by HPLC, and an acute oral toxicity study was conducted for NCTP. The anti-inflammatory activities of NCTP were evaluated using xylene induced ear edema, capillary permeability, cotton pellet granuloma, and carrageenan-induced rat paw edema, of which multiple biochemical indices were measured in carrageenan-induced rat paw edema such as prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2),5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) activities; the analgesic activities were investigated using acetic acid writhing, hot plate test, and formalin test; the anti-tussive and antipyretic effects were tested by ammonia induced cough in mice and yeast-induced fever respectively.

RESULTS

NCTP with LD50 of 5222 mg/kg was low toxicity and safety. NCTP (200 mg/kg) could significantly reduce ear swelling and capillary permeability by 30.63% and 31.37%, respectively. NCTP revealed 15.76% inhibiting activities in cotton pellet granuloma in mice at a dosage of 200 mg/kg. Furthermore, NCTP (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) substantially decreased carrageenin-induced paw edema in rats between 1 and 5 h, and NCTP could decrease PGE2, 5-LOX, COX-2 levels as well as IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α activities compared with the control group; NCTP could decrease MDA contents in carrageenin-induced rise, and increase SOD and GSH activities. Furthermore, the dose-dependent inhibition effect of NCTP on pain was revealed in the hot plate experiment. In addition to reducing the amount of writhes brought on by acetic acid, NCTP (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) significantly inhibited pain latency against both stages of the formalin test. Moreover, NCTP (50, 100, 200 mg/kg) showed the better antitussive activities in mice in a dose-dependent manner. In the yeast-induced pyrexia test, dosages of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg resulted in a statistically significant drop in rectal temperature.

CONCLUSION

The experimental results proved the analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-tussive and antipyretic activities of the polyphenol-enriched fraction from N. candida, and supported the traditional use of this plant as well.

Reversible light-induced spin state switching in a dinuclear Fe(II) spin crossover complex

A dinuclear Fe(II) spin crossover (SCO) complex with the formula [Fe2L5(NCS)4]·2DMF·2H2O (1) was synthesised from 1-naphthylimino-1,2,4-triazole (L). Complex 1 exhibits an incomplete thermally induced spin transition with a transition temperature T1/2 of 95 K and a thermally trapped metastable high-spin state at low temperatures. Furthermore, it undergoes a reversible light-induced spin crossover by alternate irradiation with 532 and 808 nm lasers.

Associations between static and dynamic changes of platelet counts and in-hospital mortality in critical patients with acute heart failure

To investigate the predictive value of baseline platelet count and its short-term dynamic changes in the prognosis of patients with acute heart failure (AHF) in the intensive care unit. Patients diagnosed with AHF in the medical information mart for intensive care III and their clinical data were retrospectively filtered. Patients were divided into survivor and non-survivor groups based on their prognosis during hospitalization, and differences in baseline data between groups were compared. Logistic regression models and restricted cubic spline (RCS) plots were performed to evaluate the relationship between baseline platelet counts and in-hospital mortality. Changes and trends in platelet counts were compared between the survivor and non-survivor groups after adjusting for confounders with the generalized additive mixing model (GAMM). A total of 2930 critical patients with acute heart failure were included, of which 2720 were survivors and 210 were non-survivors. Multiple logistic regression models revealed that baseline platelet count was an independent factor in hospital mortality (OR 0.997, 95% CI 0.994-0.999, P-value = 0.018). The RCS plot demonstrated a U-shaped dose-response relationship between baseline platelet count and in-hospital mortality. GAMM analysis suggested that the platelet counts decreased and then increased in the survivor group and gradually decreased in the non-survivor group, with a gradual increase of difference between two groups. After adjusting for confounders, the mean daily increase was -6.014 (95% CI -7.076-4.953, P-value < 0.001). Baseline platelet demonstrated a U-shaped dose-response relationship with adverse outcomes in critical patients with AHF. Early elevation of platelet was correlated with higher in-hospital mortality, indicating that tracking early changes in platelet might help determine the short-term prognosis of critical patients with AHF.

Different seasonal dynamics, ecological drivers, and assembly mechanisms of algae in southern and northern drinking water reservoirs

The role of environmental factors on the community structure of algae has been intensively studied, but there are few analyses on the assembly mechanism of the algal community structure. Here, changes in the community structure of algae in different seasons, the effects of environmental variables on the algal community structure, and the assembly mechanism of the algal community structure in northern and southern reservoirs were investigated in this study. The study revealed that Bacillariophyta, Cyanophyta, and Chlorophyta were the predominant algal species in the reservoirs, with Bacillariophyta and Cyanophyta exhibiting seasonal outbreaks. Compared to the northern reservoirs, the algal diversity in the southern reservoirs was greater. The diversity and algal community structure could be significantly impacted by variations in water temperature and nitrogen level. According to the ecological model, the interaction among algal communities in reservoirs was primarily cooperation. The key taxa in the northern reservoirs was Aphanizomenon sp., while the outbreak in the southern reservoirs was Coelosphaerium sp. The community formation pattern of reservoirs was stochastic, with a higher degree of explanation observed in the southern reservoirs compared to the northern reservoirs. This study preliminarily explored the assembly mechanism of the algal community, providing a theoretical basis for the control of eutrophication in drinking water reservoirs.

Cascade nanoreactor employs mitochondrial-directed chemodynamic and δ-ALA-mediated photodynamic synergy for deep-seated oral cancer therapy

The management of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) poses significant challenges, leading to organ impairment and ineffective treatment of deep-seated tumors, adversely affecting patient prognosis. We introduced a cascade nanoreactor that integrates photodynamic therapy (PDT) and chemodynamic therapy (CDT) for comprehensive multimodal OSCC treatment. Utilizing iron oxide nanoparticles and mesoporous silica, we developed the FMMSH drug delivery system, encapsulating the photosensitizer prodrug δ-aminolevulinic acid (δ-ALA). Triphenylphosphine (TPP) modification facilitated mitochondrial targeting, while tumor cell membrane (TCM) coating provided homotypic targeting. The dual-targeting δ-ALA@FMMSH-TPP-TCM nanoparticles demonstrated efficacy in eradicating both superficial and deep tumors through synergistic PDT/CDT. Esterase overexpression in OSCC cells triggered δ-ALA release, and excessive hydrogen peroxide in tumor mitochondria underwent Fenton chemistry for CDT. The synergistic interaction of PDT and CDT mechanisms increased cytotoxic ROS levels, intensifying oxidative stress and enhancing apoptotic and damage mechanisms, ultimately leading to enhanced tumor cell death. PDT/CDT-induced apoptosis generated δ-ALA-containing apoptotic bodies, enhancing anti-tumor efficacy in deep tumor cells. The advantageous anatomical accessibility of oral cancer emphasizes the potential of intratumoral injection for precise and localized treatment delivery, ensuring focused therapeutic agent delivery to maximize efficacy while minimizing systemic side effects. Thus, δ-ALA@FMMSH-TPP-TCM, tailored for intratumoral injection, emerges as a transformative modality in OSCC treatment. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Correction: Identification of serum prognostic marker miRNAs and construction of microRNA-mRNA networks of esophageal cancer

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0255479.].

The Allostery and Modification of hGHRH Molecules and Specific Dimer Produced Significant Fertility Effect by Proliferating and Activating in-situ Ovarian Mesenchymal Stem Cells

The negative coordination of growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R) and growth hormone-releasing hormone receptor (GHRH-R) involves in the repair processes of cellular injury. The allosteric U- or H-like modified GHRH dimer Grinodin and 2Y were comparatively evaluated in normal Kunming mice and hamster infertility models induced by CPA treatment. 1-3-9 µg of Grinodin or 2Y per hamster stem-cell-exhaustion model was subcutaneously administered once a week, respectively inducing 75-69-46 or 45-13-50% of birth rates. In comparison, the similar mole of human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) or human growth hormone (hGH) was administered once a day but caused just 25 or 20% of birth rates. Grinodin induced more big ovarian follicles and corpora lutea than 2Y, hMG, hGH. The hMG-treated group was observed many distorted interstitial cells and more connective tissues and the hGH-treated group had few ovarian follicles. 2Y had a plasma lifetime of 21 days and higher GH release in mice, inducing lower birth rate and stronger individual specificity in reproduction as well as only promoting the proliferation of mesenchymal-stem-cells (MSCs) in the models. In comparison, Grinodin had a plasma lifetime of 30 days and much lower GH release in mice. It significantly promoted the proliferation and activation of ovarian MSCs together with the development of follicles in the models by increasing Ki67 and GHS-R expressions, and decreasing GHRH-R expression in a dose-dependent manner. However, the high GH and excessive estrogen levels in the models showed a dose-dependent reduction in fertility. Therefore, unlike 2Y, the low dose of Grinodin specifically shows low GHS-R and high GHRH-R expressions thus evades GH and estrogen release and improves functions of organs, resulting in an increase of fertility.

Diastereoselective Synthesis of Less Accessible Fluorine-Containing Acyclic Tetrasubstituted Stereocenters via Electrophilic Fluorination of β,β-Disubstituted Metalloenamines

A stereocontrolled protocol was developed to construct less accessible fluorine-containing acyclic tetrasubstituted stereocenters bearing two sterically and electronically similar alkyl groups at the α-position of carbonyls. In this process, tBuOK-promoted stereospecific α-deprotonation of α,α-disubstituted N-tert-butanesulfinyl ketimines or NH deprotonation of β,β-disubstituted enesulfinamides generates geometry-defined multisubstituted metalloenamines, followed by stereoselective electrophilic fluorination with the N-fluoro ammonium salt of quinine, affording the acyclic α-fluorinated ketimines with excellent diastereoselectivities.

Investigation on multi-parameter of hydrate-bearing synthetic sediment during hydrate replacement process: A in-situ X-ray computed tomography study

Carbon sequestration can be achieved by carbon dioxide replacement in natural gas hydrate exploitation, which reducing greenhouse gas emissions and providing an effective solution to address climate change, while simultaneously protecting the environment and promoting sustainable energy development. Gas replacement can achieve gas exploitation, gas storage, and stability enhancement simultaneously. However, time-varying microstructure evolution of the hydrate-bearing sediment (HBS) during this process remain a large amount of uncertainty. In this study, with microfocus computer tomography, hydrate replacement process is realized using xenon gas to replace krypton hydrate. During this period, the initial hydrate saturation and effective confining pressure were 63 % and 1 MPa respectively, the results were obtained as follows: 1. Hydrate occurrence dynamically adjusted during replacement process due to the "barrier effect" and "diffusion effect". 2. Dissociated water migration occurred in the sediment, and this induced local hydrate enrichment temporarily and blockages, but the blockages were eventually dredged with the dissociation of the Kr hydrate. 3. The sphericity and surface roughness of the hydrate particles were slightly improved, the pore space connectivity was well enhanced, and both tortuosity and absolute permeability was better strengthened after replacement process, where the absolute permeability was increased by 225.23 %, though the blockage occurrence temporarily weakened this strengthener.

Mycorrhizal fungi reduce the photosystem damage caused by drought stress on Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis

Drought stress (DS) is one of the important abiotic stresses facing cash crops today. Drought can reduce plant growth and development, inhibit photosynthesis, and thus reduce plant yield. In this experiment, we investigated the protective mechanism of AMF on plant photosynthetic system by inoculating Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis(P.py) with a clumping mycorrhizal fungus (AMF) under drought conditions. The drought environment was maintained by weighing AMF plants and non-AMF plants. The relative water content (RWC) of plant leaves was measured to determine its drought effect. DS decreased the RWC of plants, but AMF was able to increase the RWC of plants. chlorophyll a fluorescence curve measurements revealed that DS increased the OKJIP curve of plants, but AMF was able to reduce this trend, indicating that AMF increased the light absorption capacity of plants. DS also caused a decrease in plant Y(I) and Y(II). ETRI and ETRII, and increased Y(NO) and Y(NA) in plants, indicating that DS caused photosystem damage in plants. For the same host, different AMFs did not help to the same extent, but all AMFs were able to help plants reduce this damage and contribute to the increase of plant photosynthesis under normal water conditions.

Species -shared and -unique gyral peaks on human and macaque brains

Cortical folding is an important feature of primate brains that plays a crucial role in various cognitive and behavioral processes. Extensive research has revealed both similarities and differences in folding morphology and brain function among primates including macaque and human. The folding morphology is the basis of brain function, making cross-species studies on folding morphology important for understanding brain function and species evolution. However, prior studies on cross-species folding morphology mainly focused on partial regions of the cortex instead of the entire brain. Previously, our research defined a whole-brain landmark based on folding morphology: the gyral peak. It was found to exist stably across individuals and ages in both human and macaque brains. Shared and unique gyral peaks in human and macaque are identified in this study, and their similarities and differences in spatial distribution, anatomical morphology, and functional connectivity were also dicussed.

Constructing 2D Polyphenols-Based Crosslinked Networks for Ultrafast and Selective Uranium Extraction from Seawater

The role of tannins (TA), a well-known abundant and ecologically friendly chelating ligand, in metal capture has long been studied. Different kinds of TA-containing adsorbents are synthesized for uranium capture, while most adsorbents suffer from unfavorable adsorption kinetics. Herein, the design and preparation of a TA-containing 2D crosslinked network adsorbent (TANP) is reported. The ≈1.8-nanometer-thick TANP films curl up into micrometer-scale pores, which contribute to fast mass transfer and full exposure of active sites. The coordination environment of uranyl (UO2 2+) ions is explored by integrated analysis of U L3-edge XANES and EXAFS. Density functional theory calculations indicate the energetically favorable UO2 2+ binding. Consequently, TANP with excellent adsorption kinetics presents a high uranium capture capacity (14.62 mg-U g-Ads-1) and a high adsorption rate (0.97 mg g-1 day-1) together with excellent selectivity and biofouling resistance. Life cycle assessment and cost analysis demonstrate that TANP has tremendous potential for application in industrial-scale uranium extraction from seawater.

Synergistic Regulation of Targeted Organelles in Tumor Cells to Promote Photothermal-Immunotherapy Using Intelligent Core-Satellite-Like Nanoparticles for Effective Treatment of Breast Cancer

The normal operation of organelles is critical for tumor growth and metastasis. Herein, an intelligent nanoplatform (BMAEF) is fabricated to perform on-demand destruction of mitochondria and golgi apparatus, which also generates the enhanced photothermal-immunotherapy, resulting in the effective inhibition of primary and metastasis tumor. The BMAEF has a core of mesoporous silica nanoparticles loaded with brefeldin A (BM), which is connected to ethylenebis(oxyethylenenitrilo)tetraacetic acid (EGTA) and folic acid co-modified gold nanoparticles (AEF). During therapy, the BMAEF first accumulates in tumor cells via folic acid-induced targeting. Subsequently, the schiff base/ester bond cleaves in lysosome to release brefeldin A and AEF with exposed EGTA. The EGTA further captures Ca2+ to block ion transfer among mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and golgi apparatus, which not only induced dysfunction of mitochondria and golgi apparatus assisted by brefeldin A to suppress both energy and material metabolism against tumor growth and metastasis, but causes AEF aggregation for tumor-specific photothermal therapy and photothermal assisted immunotherapy. Moreover, the dysfunction of these organelles also stops the production of BMI1 and heat shock protein 70 to further enhance the metastasis inhibition and photothermal therapy, which meanwhile triggers the escape of cytochrome C to cytoplasm, leading to additional apoptosis of tumor cells.

Mutual Associations of Exposure to Ambient Air Pollutants in the First 1000 Days of Life With Asthma/Wheezing in Children: Prospective Cohort Study in Guangzhou, China

BACKGROUND

The first 1000 days of life, encompassing pregnancy and the first 2 years after birth, represent a critical period for human health development. Despite this significance, there has been limited research into the associations between mixed exposure to air pollutants during this period and the development of asthma/wheezing in children. Furthermore, the finer sensitivity window of exposure during this crucial developmental phase remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to assess the relationships between prenatal and postnatal exposures to various ambient air pollutants (particulate matter 2.5 [PM2.5], carbon monoxide [CO], sulfur dioxide [SO2], nitrogen dioxide [NO2], and ozone [O3]) and the incidence of childhood asthma/wheezing. In addition, we aimed to pinpoint the potential sensitivity window during which air pollution exerts its effects.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective birth cohort study wherein pregnant women were recruited during early pregnancy and followed up along with their children. Information regarding maternal and child characteristics was collected through questionnaires during each round of investigation. Diagnosis of asthma/wheezing was obtained from children's medical records. In addition, maternal and child exposures to air pollutants (PM2.5 CO, SO2, NO2, and O3) were evaluated using a spatiotemporal land use regression model. To estimate the mutual associations of exposure to mixed air pollutants with the risk of asthma/wheezing in children, we used the quantile g-computation model.

RESULTS

In our study cohort of 3725 children, 392 (10.52%) were diagnosed with asthma/wheezing. After the follow-up period, the mean age of the children was 3.2 (SD 0.8) years, and a total of 14,982 person-years were successfully followed up for all study participants. We found that each quartile increase in exposure to mixed air pollutants (PM2.5, CO, SO2, NO2, and O3) during the second trimester of pregnancy was associated with an adjusted hazard ratio (HR) of 1.24 (95% CI 1.04-1.47). Notably, CO made the largest positive contribution (64.28%) to the mutual effect. After categorizing the exposure according to the embryonic respiratory development stages, we observed that each additional quartile of mixed exposure to air pollutants during the pseudoglandular and canalicular stages was associated with HRs of 1.24 (95% CI 1.03-1.51) and 1.23 (95% CI 1.01-1.51), respectively. Moreover, for the first year and first 2 years after birth, each quartile increment of exposure to mixed air pollutants was associated with HRs of 1.65 (95% CI 1.30-2.10) and 2.53 (95% CI 2.16-2.97), respectively. Notably, SO2 made the largest positive contribution in both phases, accounting for 50.30% and 74.70% of the association, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Exposure to elevated levels of mixed air pollutants during the first 1000 days of life appears to elevate the risk of childhood asthma/wheezing. Specifically, the second trimester, especially during the pseudoglandular and canalicular stages, and the initial 2 years after birth emerge as crucial susceptibility windows.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR-ROC-17013496; https://tinyurl.com/2ctufw8n.

Exploration of the mode of death and potential death mechanisms of nucleus pulposus cells

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a common chronic orthopaedic disease in orthopaedics that imposes a heavy economic burden on people and society. Although it is well established that IVDD is associated with genetic susceptibility, ageing and obesity, its pathogenesis remains incompletely understood. Previously, IVDD was thought to occur because of excessive mechanical loading leading to destruction of nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs), but studies have shown that IVDD is a much more complex process associated with inflammation, metabolic factors and NPCs death and can involve all parts of the disc, characterized by causing NPCs death and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation. The damage pattern of NPCs in IVDD is like that of some programmed cell death, suggesting that IVDD is associated with programmed cell death. Although apoptosis and pyroptosis of NPCs have been studied in IVDD, the pathogenesis of intervertebral disc degeneration can still not be fully elucidated by using only traditional cell death modalities. With increasing research, some new modes of cell death, PANoptosis, ferroptosis and senescence have been found to be closely related to intervertebral disc degeneration. Among these, PANoptosis combines essential elements of pyroptosis, apoptosis and necroptosis to form a highly coordinated and dynamically balanced programmed inflammatory cell death process. Furthermore, we believe that PANoptosis may also crosstalk with pyroptosis and senescence. Therefore, we review the progress of research on multiple deaths of NPCs in IVDD to provide guidance for clinical treatment.

Harnessing photosynthetic C18O16O discrimination dynamics under leaf water nonsteady state to estimate mesophyll conductance: a new, regression-based method

Mesophyll conductance (gm) is a crucial plant trait that can significantly limit photosynthesis. Measurement of photosynthetic C18O16O discrimination (Δ18O) has proved to be the only viable means of resolving gm in both C3 and C4 plants. However, the currently available methods to exploit Δ18O for gm estimation are error prone due to their inadequacy in constraining the degree of oxygen isotope exchange (θ) during mesophyll CO2 hydration. Here, we capitalized on experimental manipulation of leaf water isotopic dynamics to establish a novel, nonsteady state, regression-based approach for simultaneous determination of gm and θ from online Δ18O measurements. We demonstrated the methodological and theoretical robustness of this new Δ18O-gm estimation approach and showed through measurements on several C3 and C4 species that this approach can serve as a benchmark method against which to identify previously-unrecognized biases of the existing Δ18O-gm methods. Our results highlight the unique value of this nonsteady state-based approach for contributing to ongoing efforts toward quantitative understanding of mesophyll conductance for crop yield improvement and carbon cycle modeling.

Analysis of risk factors and development of a nomogram-based prediction model for defective bony non-union

Objective

To explore risk factors for defective non-union of bone and develop a nomogram-based prediction model for such an outcome.

Methods

This retrospective study analysed the case data of patients with defective bony non-unions who were treated at the authors' hospital between January 2010 and December 2020. Patients were divided into the union and non-union groups according to their Radiographic Union Score for Tibia scores 1 year after surgery. Univariate analysis was performed to assess factors related to demographic characteristics, laboratory investigations, surgery, and trauma in both groups. Subsequently, statistically significant factors were included in the multivariate logistic regression analysis to identify independent risk factors. A nomogram-based prediction model was established using statistically significant variables in the multivariate analysis. The accuracy and stability of the model were evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and calibration curves. The clinical applicability of the nomogram model was evaluated using decision curve analysis.

Results

In total, 204 patients (171 male, 33 female; mean [±SD] age, 39.75 ± 13.00 years) were included. The mean body mass index was 22.95 ± 3.64 kg/m2. Among the included patients, 29 were smokers, 18 were alcohol drinkers, and 21 had a previous comorbid systemic disease (PCSD). Univariate analysis revealed that age, occupation, PCSD, smoking, drinking, interleukin-6, C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin, alkaline phosphatase, glucose, and uric acid levels; blood calcium ion concentration; and bone defect size (BDS) were correlated with defective bone union (all P < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that PCSD, smoking, interleukin-6, CRP, and glucose levels; and BDS were associated with defective bone union (all P < 0.05), and the variables in the multivariate analysis were included in the nomogram-based prediction model. The value of the area under the ROC curve for the predictive model for bone defects was 0.95.

Conclusion

PCSD, smoking, interleukin-6, CRP, and glucose levels; and BDS were independent risk factors for defective bony non-union, and the incidence of such non-union was predicted using the nomogram. These findings are important for clinical interventions and decision-making.

Understanding PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling in squamous cell carcinoma: mutated PIK3CA as an example

Compared with those in adenocarcinoma, PIK3CA mutations are more common in squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), which arises from stratified squamous epithelia that are usually exposed to adverse environmental factors. Although hotspot mutations in exons 9 and 20 of PIK3CA, including E542K, E545K, H1047L and H1047R, are frequently encountered in the clinic, their clinicopathological meaning remains to be determined in the context of SCC. Considering that few reviews on PIK3CA mutations in SCC are available in the literature, we undertook this review to shed light on the clinical significance of PIK3CA mutations, mainly regarding the implications and ramifications of PIK3CA mutations in malignant cell behavior, prognosis, relapse or recurrence and chemo- or radioresistance of SCC. It should be noted that only those studies regarding SCC in which PIK3CA was mutated were cherry-picked, which fell within the scope of this review. However, the role of mutated PIK3CA in adenocarcinoma has not been discussed. In addition, mutations occurring in other main members of the PI3K-AKT-mTOR signaling pathway other than PIK3CA were also excluded.

Highly drug/target-tolerant neutralizing antibody (NAb) assay development through target-based drug depletion and drug-based NAb extraction for an anti-EGFR therapeutic monoclonal antibody

The reduction of immunogenicity is fundamental for the development of biobetter Erbitux, given that the development of an immune response reduces treatment efficacy and may lead to potential side effects. One of the requirements for the clinical research of a Erbitux biobetter candidate (CMAB009) is to develop a neutralizing antibody (NAb) assay, and sufficient drug and target tolerance for the assay is necessary. Here, we describe the development of a competitive ligand binding (CLB) assay for CMAB009 with high drug and target tolerance through target-based drug depletion and drug-based NAb extraction, the integrated experimental strategy was implemented to simultaneously mitigate drug interference and enhance target tolerance. Following troubleshooting and optimization, the NAb assay was validated for clinical sample analysis with the sensitivity of 92 ng/mL, drug tolerance of 70 μg/mL and target tolerance of 798 ng/mL. The innovative drug depletion and NAb extraction achieved though the combination of drug and target beads would enable the development of reliable NAb assays for many other therapeutics that overcome drug and its target interference for more precise and sensitive NAb assessment.

Engineering Anti-CRISPR Proteins to Create CRISPR-Cas Protein Switches for Activatable Genome Editing and Viral Protease Detection

Proteins capable of switching between distinct active states in response to biochemical cues are ideal for sensing and controlling biological processes. Activatable CRISPR-Cas systems are significant in precise genetic manipulation and sensitive molecular diagnostics, yet directly controlling Cas protein function remains challenging. Herein, we explore anti-CRISPR (Acr) proteins as modules to create synthetic Cas protein switches (CasPSs) based on computational chemistry-directed rational protein interface engineering. Guided by molecular fingerprint analysis, electrostatic potential mapping, and binding free energy calculations, we rationally engineer the molecular interaction interface between Cas12a and its cognate Acr proteins (AcrVA4 and AcrVA5) to generate a series of orthogonal protease-responsive CasPSs. These CasPSs enable the conversion of specific proteolytic events into activation of Cas12a function with high switching ratios (up to 34.3-fold). These advancements enable specific proteolysis-inducible genome editing in mammalian cells and sensitive detection of viral protease activities during virus infection. This work provides a promising strategy for developing CRISPR-Cas tools for controllable gene manipulation and regulation and clinical diagnostics.

Sucrose-associated SnRK1a1-mediated phosphorylation of Opaque2 modulates endosperm filling in maize

During maize endosperm filling, sucrose not only serves as a source of carbon skeletons for storage-reserve synthesis, but also acts as a stimulus to promote this process. However, the molecular mechanism details about sucrose and endosperm filling are poorly understood. Here, we found that sucrose promoted the expression of endosperm-filling hub Opaque2 (O2), coordinating with storage-reserve accumulation. A protein kinase called SnRK1a1 attenuated O2-mediated transactivation, but sucrose released the suppression. SnRK1a1 phosphorylated O2 at Serine 41 (S41), negatively affecting its protein stability and transactivation ability. Mutation of SnRK1a1 resulted in larger seeds with increased kernel weight and storage reserves, while overexpression of SnRK1a1 had the opposite effect. Overexpression of the native O2 (O2-OE), phospho-dead (O2-SA) and phospho-mimetic (O2-SD) variants all increased 100-kernel weight. Although O2-SA seeds exhibited smaller kernel size, they synthesized higher starch and proteins, thereby resulting in larger vitreous endosperm and increased test weight. O2-SD seeds displayed larger kernel size, but had unchanged levels of storage reserves and test weight. O2-OE seeds represented an admixture of O2-SA and O2-SD, showing elevated kernel dimensions and nutrient storage. Overall, this study discovered a novel mechanism to modulate endosperm filling and S41 in O2 offered potential for engineering efforts to enhance storage-reserve accumulation and yield in maize.

[Effect of SHP-1 knockout in airway epithelial cells on emphysema phenotype in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in mice]

Objective: To construct and characterize conditional Src homology region 2 protein tyrosine phosphatase 1 (SHP-1) knockout mice in airway epithelial cells and to observe the effect of defective SHP-1 expression in airway epithelial cells on the emphysema phenotype in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Methods: To detect the expression of SHP-1 in the airway epithelium of COPD patients. CRISPR/Cas9 technology was used to construct SHP-1flox/flox transgenic mice, which were mated with airway epithelial Clara protein 10-cyclase recombinase and estrogen receptor fusion transgenic mice (CC10-CreER+/+), and after intraperitoneal injection of tamoxifen, airway epithelial SHP-1 knockout mice were obtained (SHP-1flox/floxCC10-CreER+/-, SHP-1Δ/Δ). Mouse tail and lung tissue DNA was extracted and PCR amplified to discriminate the genotype of the mice; the knockout effect of SHP-1 gene in airway epithelial cells was verified by qRT-PCR, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence. In addition, an emphysema mouse model was constructed using elastase to assess the severity of emphysema in each group of mice. Results: Airway epithelial SHP-1 was significantly downregulated in COPD patients. Genotyping confirmed that SHP-1Δ/Δ mice expressed CC10-CreER and SHP-1-flox. After tamoxifen induction, we demonstrated the absence of SHP-1 protein expression in airway epithelial cells of SHP-1Δ/Δ mice at the DNA, RNA, and protein levels, indicating that airway epithelial cell-specific SHP-1 knockout mice had been successfully constructed. In the emphysema animal model, SHP-1Δ/Δ mice had a more severe emphysema phenotype compared with the control group, which was manifested by disorganization of alveolar structure in lung tissue and rupture and fusion of alveolar walls to form pulmonary alveoli. Conclusions: The present study successfully established and characterized the SHP-1 knockout mouse model of airway epithelial cells, which provides a new experimental tool for the in-depth elucidation of the role of SHP-1 in the emphysema process of COPD and its mechanism.

Structural basis for human Cav3.2 inhibition by selective antagonists

The Cav3.2 subtype of T-type calcium channels has been targeted for developing analgesics and anti-epileptics for its role in pain and epilepsy. Here we present the cryo-EM structures of Cav3.2 alone and in complex with four T-type calcium channel selective antagonists with overall resolutions ranging from 2.8 Å to 3.2 Å. The four compounds display two binding poses. ACT-709478 and TTA-A2 both place their cyclopropylphenyl-containing ends in the central cavity to directly obstruct ion flow, meanwhile extending their polar tails into the IV-I fenestration. TTA-P2 and ML218 project their 3,5-dichlorobenzamide groups into the II-III fenestration and place their hydrophobic tails in the cavity to impede ion permeation. The fenestration-penetrating mode immediately affords an explanation for the state-dependent activities of these antagonists. Structure-guided mutational analysis identifies several key residues that determine the T-type preference of these drugs. The structures also suggest the role of an endogenous lipid in stabilizing drug binding in the central cavity.

Revealing speckle obscured living human retinal cells with artificial intelligence assisted adaptive optics optical coherence tomography

BACKGROUND

In vivo imaging of the human retina using adaptive optics optical coherence tomography (AO-OCT) has transformed medical imaging by enabling visualization of 3D retinal structures at cellular-scale resolution, including the retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells, which are essential for maintaining visual function. However, because noise inherent to the imaging process (e.g., speckle) makes it difficult to visualize RPE cells from a single volume acquisition, a large number of 3D volumes are typically averaged to improve contrast, substantially increasing the acquisition duration and reducing the overall imaging throughput.

METHODS

Here, we introduce parallel discriminator generative adversarial network (P-GAN), an artificial intelligence (AI) method designed to recover speckle-obscured cellular features from a single AO-OCT volume, circumventing the need for acquiring a large number of volumes for averaging. The combination of two parallel discriminators in P-GAN provides additional feedback to the generator to more faithfully recover both local and global cellular structures. Imaging data from 8 eyes of 7 participants were used in this study.

RESULTS

We show that P-GAN not only improves RPE cell contrast by 3.5-fold, but also improves the end-to-end time required to visualize RPE cells by 99-fold, thereby enabling large-scale imaging of cells in the living human eye. RPE cell spacing measured across a large set of AI recovered images from 3 participants were in agreement with expected normative ranges.

CONCLUSIONS

The results demonstrate the potential of AI assisted imaging in overcoming a key limitation of RPE imaging and making it more accessible in a routine clinical setting.

Compliant Iontronic Triboelectric Gels with Phase-Locked Structure Enabled by Competitive Hydrogen Bonding

Rapid advancements in flexible electronics technology propel soft tactile sensing devices toward high-level biointegration, even attaining tactile perception capabilities surpassing human skin. However, the inherent mechanical mismatch resulting from deficient biomimetic mechanical properties of sensing materials poses a challenge to the application of wearable tactile sensing devices in human-machine interaction. Inspired by the innate biphasic structure of human subcutaneous tissue, this study discloses a skin-compliant wearable iontronic triboelectric gel via phase separation induced by competitive hydrogen bonding. Solvent-nonsolvent interactions are used to construct competitive hydrogen bonding systems to trigger phase separation, and the resulting soft-hard alternating phase-locked structure confers the iontronic triboelectric gel with Young's modulus (6.8-281.9 kPa) and high tensile properties (880%) compatible with human skin. The abundance of reactive hydroxyl groups gives the gel excellent tribopositive and self-adhesive properties (peel strength > 70 N m-1). The self-powered tactile sensing skin based on this gel maintains favorable interface and mechanical stability with the working object, which greatly ensures the high fidelity and reliability of soft tactile sensing signals. This strategy, enabling skin-compliant design and broad dynamic tunability of the mechanical properties of sensing materials, presents a universal platform for broad applications from soft robots to wearable electronics.

Tensile Strain-Mediated Bimetallene Nanozyme for Enhanced Photothermal Tumor Catalytic Therapy

Nanozymes have demonstrated significant potential in combating malignant tumor proliferation through catalytic therapy. However, the therapeutic effect is often limited by insufficient catalytic performance. In this study, we propose the utilization of strain engineering in metallenes to fully expose the active regions due to their ultrathin nature. Here, we present the first report on a novel tensile strain-mediated local amorphous RhRu (la-RhRu) bimetallene with exceptional intrinsic photothermal effect and photo-enhanced multiple enzyme-like activities. Through geometric phase analysis, electron diffraction profile, and X-ray diffraction, it is revealed that crystalline-amorphous heterophase boundaries can generate approximately 2% tensile strain in the bimetallene. The ultrathin structure and in-plane strain of the bimetallene induce an amplified strain effect. Both experimental and theoretical evidence support the notion that tensile strain promotes multiple enzyme-like activities. Functioning as a tumor microenvironment (TME)-responsive nanozyme, la-RhRu exhibits remarkable therapeutic efficacy both in vitro and in vivo. This work highlights the tremendous potential of atomic-scale tensile strain engineering strategy in enhancing tumor catalytic therapy.

MILIP Binding to tRNAs Promotes Protein Synthesis to Drive Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) have a poor prognosis due to the lack of effective molecular targets for therapeutic intervention. Here we found that the long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) MILIP supports TNBC cell survival, proliferation, and tumorigenicity by complexing with transfer RNAs (tRNA) to promote protein production, thus representing a potential therapeutic target in TNBC. MILIP was expressed at high levels in TNBC cells that commonly harbor loss-of-function mutations of the tumor suppressor p53, and MILIP silencing suppressed TNBC cell viability and xenograft growth, indicating that MILIP functions distinctively in TNBC beyond its established role in repressing p53 in other types of cancers. Mechanistic investigations revealed that MILIP interacted with eukaryotic translation elongation factor 1 alpha 1 (eEF1α1) and formed an RNA-RNA duplex with the type II tRNAs tRNALeu and tRNASer through their variable loops, which facilitated the binding of eEF1α1 to these tRNAs. Disrupting the interaction between MILIP and eEF1α1 or tRNAs diminished protein synthesis and cell viability. Targeting MILIP inhibited TNBC growth and cooperated with the clinically available protein synthesis inhibitor omacetaxine mepesuccinate in vivo. Collectively, these results identify MILIP as an RNA translation elongation factor that promotes protein production in TNBC cells and reveal the therapeutic potential of targeting MILIP, alone and in combination with other types of protein synthesis inhibitors, for TNBC treatment.

SIGNIFICANCE

LncRNA MILIP plays a key role in supporting protein production in TNBC by forming complexes with tRNAs and eEF1α1, which confers sensitivity to combined MILIP targeting and protein synthesis inhibitors.

Nanozyme-induced deep learning-assisted smartphone integrated colorimetric and fluorometric dual-mode for detection of tetracycline analogs

In this work, a colorimetric and fluorescent dual-mode probe controlled by NH2-MIL-88 B (Fe, Ni) nanozymes was developed to visually detect tetracycline antibiotics (TCs) residues quantitatively, as well as accurately distinguish the four most widely used tetracycline analogs (tetracycline (TC), chrycline (CTC), oxytetracycline (OTC), and doxycycline (DC)). Colorless substrate 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) may be oxidized to blue oxidized TMB by the Fe Fenton reaction, which was catalyzed by the NH2-MIL-88 B (Fe, Ni) nanozyme with POD-like activity. The colorimetric detection system allows TCs to interact with NH2-MIL-88 B (Fe, Ni). This inhibits the production of ·OH, weakens the oxidation process of TMB, and ultimately lightens the blue color in the system by blocking the electron transfer between NH2-MIL-88 B (Fe, Ni) and H2O2. Furthermore, TCs can interact with NH2-MIL-88 B (Fe, Ni) as a result of the internal filtering effect, which causes the fluorescence intensity to decrease as TCs concentration increases. Additionally, a portable instrument that combines a smartphone sensing platform with colorimetric and fluorescent signals was created for the quick, visual quantitative detection of TCs. The colorimetric and fluorescent dual-mode nano platform enables color change, with detection limits (LODs) of 0.182 μM and 0.0668 μM for the spectrometer and smartphone sensor, respectively, based on the inhibition of fluorescence and enzyme-like activities by TCs. Overall, the colorimetric and fluorescence dual-mode sensor has good stability, high specificity, and an efficient way to eliminate false-positive issues associated with a single detection mode.

Temperature Uncertainty Reduction Algorithm Based on Temperature Distribution Prior for Optical Sensors in Oil Tank Ground Settlement Monitoring

Ground settlement (GS) in an oil tank determines its structural integrity and commercial service. However, GS monitoring faces challenges, particularly due to the significant temperature differences induced by solar radiation around the tank in daytime. To address this problem, this paper digs out a prior and proposes a temperature uncertainty reduction algorithm based on that. This prior has a spatial Gaussian distribution of temperature around the tank, and numerical simulation and practical tests are conducted to demonstrate it. In addition, combining uniformly packaged sensor probes and the spatial prior of temperature, the temperature uncertainty is verified to be Gaussian-distributed too. Then, the overall temperature uncertainty can be captured by Gaussian fitting and then removed. The practical test verified a 91% reduction rate in temperature uncertainty, and this approach enables GS sensors to effectively perform daytime monitoring by mitigating temperature-related uncertainties.

High expression of NOTCH2 in gastric adenocarcinoma: A novel early diagnostic target

BACKGROUND AND AIM

NOTCH2 is overexpressed in gastric cancer (GC), and its enhanced activity is significantly correlated with worse tumor characteristics. We aim to analyze the clinicopathologic correlation between NOTCH2 and the molecular typing of GC by immunohistochemistry and by transcriptional sequencing.

METHODS

In this immunohistochemical study, we detected NOTCH2, EBER, P53, HER2, MLH1, MSH2, PMS2, and MSH6 and evaluated the association of NOTCH2 with clinical and histopathological features in a large single-institutional series of gastric adenocarcinomas (n = 488). The correlation was also investigated between immunohistochemical results and survival outcomes.

RESULTS

High NOTCH2 expression (2+/3+) was found in 139/488 (27.5%) samples analyzed. NOTCH2 expression was correlated with early stage T1 (P < 0.0001), GC in the fundus (P = 0.0364), and positive P53 status (P = 0.0019). We did not find an association between NOTCH2 and HER2, microsatellite instability, EBER, and overall survival. Through RNA sequencing, it was revealed that NOTCH2 plays an important biological function in the pathogenesis and development of GC.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggested that NOTCH2 may be a potential diagnostic target for GC due to the fact that its high expression is closely associated with the early stages of cancer.

Study of the f_{0}(980) and f_{0}(500) Scalar Mesons through the Decay D_{s}^{+}→π^{+}π^{-}e^{+}ν_{e}

Using e^{+}e^{-} collision data corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 7.33  fb^{-1} recorded by the BESIII detector at center-of-mass energies between 4.128 and 4.226 GeV, we present an analysis of the decay D_{s}^{+}→π^{+}π^{-}e^{+}ν_{e}, where the D_{s}^{+} is produced via the process e^{+}e^{-}→D_{s}^{*±}D_{s}^{∓}. We observe the f_{0}(980) in the π^{+}π^{-} system and the branching fraction of the decay D_{s}^{+}→f_{0}(980)e^{+}ν_{e} with f_{0}(980)→π^{+}π^{-} measured to be (1.72±0.13_{stat}±0.10_{syst})×10^{-3}, where the uncertainties are statistical and systematic, respectively. The dynamics of the D_{s}^{+}→f_{0}(980)e^{+}ν_{e} decay are studied with the simple pole parametrization of the hadronic form factor and the Flatté formula describing the f_{0}(980) in the differential decay rate, and the product of the form factor f_{+}^{f_{0}}(0) and the c→s Cabibbo-Kobayashi-Maskawa matrix element |V_{cs}| is determined for the first time to be f_{+}^{f_{0}}(0)|V_{cs}|=0.504±0.017_{stat}±0.035_{syst}. Furthermore, the decay D_{s}^{+}→f_{0}(500)e^{+}ν_{e} is searched for the first time but no signal is found. The upper limit on the branching fraction of D_{s}^{+}→f_{0}(500)e^{+}ν_{e}, f_{0}(500)→π^{+}π^{-} decay is set to be 3.3×10^{-4} at 90% confidence level.

Loss of stress sensor GADD45A promotes stem cell activity and ferroptosis resistance in LGR4/HOXA9-dependent AML

The overall prognosis of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains dismal, largely due to the inability of current therapies to kill leukemia stem cells (LSCs) with intrinsic resistance. Loss of the stress sensor GADD45A is implicated in poor clinical outcomes but its role in LSCs and AML pathogenesis is unknown. Here we define GADD45A as a key downstream target of LGR4 oncogenic signaling and discover a regulatory role for GADD45A loss in promoting leukemia-initiating activity and oxidative resistance in LGR4/HOXA9-dependent AML, a poor prognosis subset of leukemia. Knockout of GADD45A enhances AML progression in murine and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) mouse models. Deletion of GADD45A induces substantial mutations, increases LSC self-renewal and stemness in vivo and reduces levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), accompanied by decreased response to ROS-associated genotoxic agents (e.g., ferroptosis inducer RSL3) and acquisition of an increasingly aggressive phenotype upon serial transplantation in mice. Our single-cell CITE-seq analysis on patient-derived LSCs in PDX mice and subsequent functional studies in murine LSCs and primary AML patient cells show that loss of GADD45A is associated with resistance to ferroptosis (an iron-dependent oxidative cell death caused by ROS accumulation) through aberrant activation of antioxidant pathways related to iron and ROS detoxification such as FTH1 and PRDX1, upregulation of which correlates with unfavorable outcomes in AML patients. These results reveal a therapy resistance mechanism contributing to poor prognosis and support a role for GADD45A loss as a critical step for leukemia-initiating activity and as a target to overcome resistance in aggressive leukemia.