IL-6 mediates olfactory dysfunction in a mouse model of allergic rhinitis

BACKGROUND

Immune-inflammatory response is a key element in the occurrence and development of olfactory dysfunction (OD) in patients with allergic rhinitis (AR). As one of the core factors in immune-inflammatory responses, interleukin (IL)-6 is closely related to the pathogenesis of allergic diseases. It may also play an important role in OD induced by diseases, such as Sjögren's syndrome and coronavirus disease 2019. However, there is no study has reported its role in OD in AR. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the role of IL-6 in AR-related OD, in an attempt to discover a new target for the prevention and treatment of OD in patients with AR.

METHODS

Differential expression analysis was performed using the public datasets GSE52804 and GSE140454 for AR, and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained by obtaining the intersection points between these two datasets. IL-6, a common differential factor, was obtained by intersecting the DEGs with the General Olfactory Sensitivity Database (GOSdb) again. A model of AR mice with OD was developed by sensitizing with ovalbumin (OVA) to verify the reliability of IL-6 as a key factor of OD in AR and explore the potential mechanisms. Furthermore, a supernatant and microglia co-culture model of nasal mucosa epithelial cells stimulated by the allergen house dust mite extract Derp1 was established to identify the cellular and molecular mechanisms of IL-6-mediated OD in AR.

RESULTS

The level of IL-6 in the nasal mucosa and olfactory bulb of AR mice with OD significantly increased and showed a positive correlation with the expression of olfactory bulb microglia marker Iba-1 and the severity of OD. In-vitro experiments showed that the level of IL-6 significantly increased in the supernatant after the nasal mucosa epithelial cells were stimulated by Derp1, along with significantly decreased barrier function of the nasal mucosa. The expression levels of neuroinflammatory markers IL-1β and INOS increased after a conditioned culture of microglia with the supernatant including IL-6. Then knockdown (KD) of IL-6R by small interfering RNA (siRNA), the expression of IL-1β and INOS significantly diminished.

CONCLUSION

IL-6 plays a key role in the occurrence and development of OD in AR, which may be related to its effect on olfactory bulb microglia-mediated neuroinflammation.

What can molecular assembly learn from catalysed assembly in living organisms?

Molecular assembly is the process of organizing individual molecules into larger structures and complex systems. The self-assembly approach is predominantly utilized in creating artificial molecular assemblies, and was believed to be the primary mode of molecular assembly in living organisms as well. However, it has been shown that the assembly of many biological complexes is "catalysed" by other molecules, rather than relying solely on self-assembly. In this review, we summarize these catalysed-assembly (catassembly) phenomena in living organisms and systematically analyse their mechanisms. We then expand on these phenomena and discuss related concepts, including catalysed-disassembly and catalysed-reassembly. Catassembly proves to be an efficient and highly selective strategy for synergistically controlling and manipulating various noncovalent interactions, especially in hierarchical molecular assemblies. Overreliance on self-assembly may, to some extent, hinder the advancement of artificial molecular assembly with powerful features. Furthermore, inspired by the biological catassembly phenomena, we propose guidelines for designing artificial catassembly systems and developing characterization and theoretical methods, and review pioneering works along this new direction. Overall, this approach may broaden and deepen our understanding of molecular assembly, enabling the construction and control of intelligent assembly systems with advanced functionality.

Machine learning identifies the risk of complications after laparoscopic radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic radical gastrectomy is widely used, and perioperative complications have become a highly concerned issue.

AIM

To develop a predictive model for complications in laparoscopic radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer to better predict the likelihood of complications in gastric cancer patients within 30 days after surgery, guide perioperative treatment strategies for gastric cancer patients, and prevent serious complications.

METHODS

In total, 998 patients who underwent laparoscopic radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer at 16 Chinese medical centers were included in the training group for the complication model, and 398 patients were included in the validation group. The clinicopathological data and 30-d postoperative complications of gastric cancer patients were collected. Three machine learning methods, lasso regression, random forest, and artificial neural networks, were used to construct postoperative complication prediction models for laparoscopic distal gastrectomy and laparoscopic total gastrectomy, and their prediction efficacy and accuracy were evaluated.

RESULTS

The constructed complication model, particularly the random forest model, could better predict serious complications in gastric cancer patients undergoing laparoscopic radical gastrectomy. It exhibited stable performance in external validation and is worthy of further promotion in more centers.

CONCLUSION

Using the risk factors identified in multicenter datasets, highly sensitive risk prediction models for complications following laparoscopic radical gastrectomy were established. We hope to facilitate the diagnosis and treatment of preoperative and postoperative decision-making by using these models.

Distinguishing Protein Chemical Topologies Using Supercharging Ion Mobility Spectrometry-Mass Spectrometry

A technique combining ion mobility spectrometry-mass spectrometry (IMS-MS) and supercharging electrospray ionization (ESI) has been demonstrated to differentiate protein chemical topology effectively. Incorporating as many charges as possible into proteins via supercharging ESI allows the protein chains to be largely unfolded and stretched, revealing their hidden chemical topology. Different chemical topologies result in differing geometrical sizes of the unfolded proteins due to constraints in torsional rotations in cyclic domains. By introducing new topological indices, such as the chain-length-normalized collision cross-section (CCS) and the maximum charge state (zM ) in the extensively unfolded state, we were able to successfully differentiate various protein chemical topologies, including linear chains, ring-containing topologies (lasso, tadpole, multicyclics, etc.), and mechanically interlocked rings, like catenanes.

Optimizing the detection of emerging infections using mobility-based spatial sampling

Background Timely and precise detection of emerging infections is crucial for effective outbreak management and disease control. Human mobility significantly influences infection risks and transmission dynamics, and spatial sampling is a valuable tool for pinpointing potential infections in specific areas. This study explored spatial sampling methods, informed by various mobility patterns, to optimize the allocation of testing resources for detecting emerging infections. Methods Mobility patterns, derived from clustering point-of-interest data and travel data, were integrated into four spatial sampling approaches to detect emerging infections at the community level. To evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed mobility-based spatial sampling, we conducted analyses using actual and simulated outbreaks under different scenarios of transmissibility, intervention timing, and population density in cities. Results By leveraging inter-community movement data and initial case locations, the proposed case flow intensity (CFI) and case transmission intensity (CTI)-informed sampling approaches could considerably reduce the number of tests required for both actual and simulated outbreaks. Nonetheless, the prompt use of CFI and CTI within communities is imperative for effective detection, particularly for highly contagious infections in densely populated areas. Conclusions The mobility-based spatial sampling approach can substantially improve the efficiency of community-level testing for detecting emerging infections. It achieves this by reducing the number of individuals screened while maintaining a high accuracy rate of infection identification. It represents a cost-effective solution to optimize the deployment of testing resources, when necessary, to contain emerging infectious diseases in diverse settings.

Biomacromolecular Characterizations Using State-of-the-Art Quartz Crystal Microbalance with Dissipation

Biomolecular characterization is essential in fields such as drug discovery, glycomics, and cell biology. This feature article focuses on the experimental use of quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM-D) as a powerful analytical technique to probe biological events ranging from biomacromolecular interactions and conformational changes of biomacromolecules to surface immobilization of biomacromolecules and cell morphological changes.

[Efficacy and safety of endovascular therapy after 24 h from ischemic stroke onset in patients with acute anterior circulation ischemic stroke]

Objective: To explore the effectiveness and safety of endovascular treatment (EVT) for patients with acute anterior circulation ischemic stroke with symptom onset exceeding 24 h. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, data were extracted from patients who underwent endovascular treatment for acute anterior circulation ischemic stroke at the First Hospital of Jilin University from February 2019 to April 2022. A total of 569 patients were included, with a mean age of 63 (54-70) years. Among them, 398 (69.9%) were male. The patients were divided into two groups based on symptom onset time:>24 h group and≤24 h group. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to match the patients in a 1︰1 ratio between the>24 h group and the≤24 h group. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the impact of symptom onset time on outcome events. Results: Before PSM, compared with≤24 h group, the>24 h group had a younger age [56 (48, 64) vs. 64 (55, 70), Z=-3. 60, P<0.001]; lower proportion of prior atrial fibrillation [1.8% (1/57) vs. 21.1% (108/512), χ2=12.39, P<0.001]; lower proportion of wake-up stroke [7.0% (4/57) vs. 27.7% (142/512), χ2=11.54, P<0.001]; lower baseline NIHSS score [11.0 (7.5, 14.0) vs. 13.0 (10.0, 16.0), Z=-3.22, P<0.001]; and a higher American Society of Interventional and Therapeutic Neuroradiology/Society of Interventional Radiology(ASITN/SIR) grading (P<0.001). After PSM, there were no significant differences in baseline characteristics between the two groups. There was no significant difference in the proportion of patients with a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score≤2 at 90 days after surgery between the two groups (before matching: 42.0% vs. 40.4%, OR=0.745, 95%CI 0.407-1.362, P=0.339; after matching: 51.8% vs. 39.3%, OR=0.511, 95%CI 0.212-1.236, P=0.136). No significant differences were observed in the incidence of any safety outcomes between the>24 h group and the≤24 h group. Conclusion: For patients with acute anterior circulation ischemic stroke with symptom onset exceeding 24 h, EVT is feasible after strict radiological screening and has similar safety and effectiveness as for patients with symptom onset under 24 h.

A single-domain protein catenane of dihydrofolate reductase

A single-domain protein catenane refers to two mechanically interlocked polypeptide rings that fold synergistically into a compact and integrated structure, which is extremely rare in nature. Here, we report a single-domain protein catenane of dihydrofolate reductase (cat-DHFR). This design was achieved by rewiring the connectivity between secondary motifs to introduce artificial entanglement and synthesis was readily accomplished through a series of programmed and streamlined post-translational processing events in cells without any additional in vitro reactions. The target molecule contained few exogenous motifs and was thoroughly characterized using a combination of ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, protease cleavage experiments and ion mobility spectrometry-mass spectrometry. Compared with the linear control, cat-DHFR retained its catalytic capability and exhibited enhanced stability against thermal or chemical denaturation due to conformational restriction. These results suggest that linear proteins may be converted into their concatenated single-domain counterparts with almost identical chemical compositions, well-preserved functions and elevated stabilities, representing an entirely new horizon in protein science.

DHCR24 reverses Alzheimer's disease-related pathology and cognitive impairment via increasing hippocampal cholesterol levels in 5xFAD mice

Accumulating evidences reveal that cellular cholesterol deficiency could trigger the onset of Alzheimer's disease (AD). As a key regulator, 24-dehydrocholesterol reductase (DHCR24) controls cellular cholesterol homeostasis, which was found to be downregulated in AD vulnerable regions and involved in AD-related pathological activities. However, DHCR24 as a potential therapeutic target for AD remains to be identified. In present study, we demonstrated the role of DHCR24 in AD by employing delivery of adeno-associated virus carrying DHCR24 gene into the hippocampus of 5xFAD mice. Here, we found that 5xFAD mice had lower levels of cholesterol and DHCR24 expression, and the cholesterol loss was alleviated by DHCR24 overexpression. Surprisingly, the cognitive impairment of 5xFAD mice was significantly reversed after DHCR24-based gene therapy. Moreover, we revealed that DHCR24 knock-in successfully prevented or reversed AD-related pathology in 5xFAD mice, including amyloid-β deposition, synaptic injuries, autophagy, reactive astrocytosis, microglial phagocytosis and apoptosis. In conclusion, our results firstly demonstrated that the potential value of DHCR24-mediated regulation of cellular cholesterol level as a promising treatment for AD.

[Diagnostic value of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in hepatic epithelioid hemangioendothelioma]

Objective: To investigate the features of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in hepatic epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (HEHE) in order to improve the preoperative diagnosis rate. Methods: CEUS images of 32 pathologically-proven cases of hepatic epithelioid hemangioendothelioma from January 2004 to August 2021 were collected. Lesions were analyzed to observe the features of enhancement mode, enhancement intensity, and distinct enhancement phases. Results: Among the 32 cases, one had a solitary lesion, 29 had multiple lesions, and two had diffuse-type lesions. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound revealed a total of 42 lesions in 32 cases. In terms of arterial phase enhancement, 18 lesions had overall enhancement, six lesions had uneven dendritic enhancement, 16 lesions had rim-like enhancement, and two lesions had just slight peripheral spot enhancement around the lesions. Among the three cases, there were multiple lesions that had overall enhancement and ring enhancement. In terms of the enhancement phase, 20 lesions showed "fast progression", 20 lesions showed "same progression", and two lesions showed "slow progression". During the late arterial or early portal venous phases with rapid washout, all lesions manifested as hypoechoic. With peaked enhanced intensity, 11 lesions had a lower enhancement intensity than the surrounding normal liver parenchyma; 11 lesions had the same enhancement degree as the surrounding normal liver parenchyma; and 20 lesions had a higher enhancement degree than the surrounding normal liver parenchyma. All 16 ring-enhancing lesions had marked hyperenhancement. In the typical enhancing lesions, four showed hyperenhancement, five showed low enhancement, and nine showed isoenhancement. In the dendrite-enhancing lesions, there were two isoenhancing and four hypoenhancing. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound delineated the boundaries of all lesions more clearly than two-dimensional ultrasound. Conclusion: Contrast-enhanced ultrasound has certain value in the diagnosis of hepatic epithelioid hemangioendothelioma.

A single-domain green fluorescent protein catenane

Natural proteins exhibit rich structural diversity based on the folds of an invariably linear chain. Macromolecular catenanes that cooperatively fold into a single domain do not belong to the current protein universe, and their design and synthesis open new territories in chemistry. Here, we report the design, synthesis, and properties of a single-domain green fluorescent protein catenane via rewiring the connectivity of GFP's secondary motifs. The synthesis could be achieved in two steps via a pseudorotaxane intermediate or directly via expression in cellulo. Various proteins-of-interest may be inserted at the loop regions to give fusion protein catenanes where the two subunits exhibit enhanced thermal resilience, thermal stability, and mechanical stability due to strong conformational coupling. The strategy can be applied to other proteins with similar fold, giving rise to a family of single-domain fluorescent proteins. The results imply that there may be multiple protein topological variants with desirable functional traits beyond their corresponding linear protein counterparts, which are now made accessible and fully open for exploration.

Visualizing the multi-level assembly structures of conjugated molecular systems with chain-length dependent behavior

It remains challenging to understand the structural evolution of conjugated polymers from single chains to solvated aggregates and film microstructures, although it underpins the performance of optoelectrical devices fabricated via the mainstream solution processing method. With several ensemble visual measurements, here we unravel the morphological evolution process of a model system of isoindigo-based conjugated molecules, including the hidden molecular assembly pathways, the mesoscale network formation, and their unorthodox chain dependence. Short chains show rigid chain conformations forming discrete aggregates in solution, which further grow to form a highly ordered film that exhibits poor electrical performance. In contrast, long chains exhibit flexible chain conformations, creating interlinked aggregates networks in solution, which are directly imprinted into films, forming interconnective solid-state microstructure with excellent electrical performance. Visualizing multi-level assembly structures of conjugated molecules provides a deep understanding of the inheritance of assemblies from solution to solid-state, accelerating the optimization of device fabrication.

P2X7 receptor of microglia in olfactory bulb mediates the pathogenesis of olfactory dysfunction in a mouse model of allergic rhinitis

The pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis (AR)-related olfactory dysfunction (OD) remains unknown. Inhibiting microglial response in olfactory bulb (OB) can ameliorate AR-related OD, but no precise targets have been available. In this study, we established a mouse model of ovalbumin (OVA)-induced AR and combined with the application of P2X7 receptor (P2X7R)-specific antagonists and cell culture in conditioned medium to investigate the role and mechanism of OB microglial P2X7R in AR-related OD. Serum IgE and IL-5 levels determined via ELISA and federated the number of nose-scratching to affirm the success of OVA-induced AR mouse model. Buried food pellet test was used to evaluate the olfactory function of mice. The changes of IBA1, GFAP, P2X7R, IL-1β, IL-1Ra, and CASPASE 1 were detected by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. The levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) were determined by the commercialized kit. The morphological changes of microglia were assessed using immunofluorescence staining and Sholl analysis. Findings showed that AR-related OD was associated with OB microglia-mediated imbalance between IL-1β and IL-1Ra. Treatment with BBG improved the olfactory function in AR mice with restoring the balance between IL-1β and IL-1Ra. In vitro, the conditioned medium obtained after HNEpC treatment with Der p1 could activate HMC3 to arise inflammatory reaction basing on "ATP-P2X7R-Caspase 1" axis, while inhibition of its P2X7R suppressed the reaction. In brief, microglial P2X7R in OB is a direct effector molecule in AR-related OD and inhibition of it may be a new strategy for the treatment of AR-related OD.

Brain response in allergic rhinitis: Profile and proposal

In addition to typical nasal symptoms, patients with allergic rhinitis (AR) will further lead to symptoms related to brain function such as hyposmia, anxiety, depression, cognitive impairment, memory loss, etc., which seriously affect the quality of life of patients and bring a heavy burden to the patient's family and society. Some scholars have speculated that there may be potential "nose-brain communication" mechanism in AR that rely on neuro-immunity. This mechanism plays an important role in AR-associated brain response process. However, no study has directly demonstrated which neural circuits will change in the connection between the nose and brain during the onset of AR, and the mechanism which underlines this question is also lack. Focusing on the topic of "nose-brain communication", this paper systematically summarizes the latest research progress between AR and related brain responses and discusses the mechanism of AR-related neurological phenotypes. Hope new diagnostic and therapeutic targets to ameliorate the brain function-related symptoms and improve the quality of life of AR patients will be developed.

Deep brain stimulation improves central nervous system inflammation in Parkinson's disease: Evidence and perspectives

BACKGROUND

In Parkinson's disease (PD), inflammation may lead to the degeneration of dopaminergic (DAergic) neurons. Previous studies showed that inflammatory mediators mainly contributed to this phenomenon. On the other hand, invasive neuromodulation methods such as deep brain stimulation (DBS) have better therapeutic effects for PD. One possibility is that DBS improves PD by influencing inflammation. Therefore, we further explored the mechanisms underlying inflammatory mediators and DBS in the pathogenesis of PD.

METHODS

We measured serum levels of two inflammatory markers, namely RANTES (regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), using Luminex assays in 109 preoperative DBS PD patients, 49 postoperative DBS PD patients, and 113 age- and sex-matched controls. The plasma protein data of the different groups were then statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

RANTES (p < 0.001) and TNF-α (p = 0.005) levels differed significantly between the three groups. A strong and significant correlation between RANTES levels and Hoehn-Yahr (H-Y) stage was observed in preoperative PD patients (r_s  = 0.567, p < 0.001). Significant correlations between RANTES levels and Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale III (UPDRS III) score (r_s1  = 0.644, p = 0.033 and r_s2  = 0.620, p = 0.042) were observed in matched patients. No correlation was observed for TNF-α levels.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study indicate that PD patients have a persistent inflammatory profile, possibly via recruitment of activated monocytes, macrophages, and T lymphocytes to the central nervous system (CNS). DBS was shown to have a significant therapeutic effect on PD, which may arise by improving the inflammatory environment of the central nervous system.

Leveraging Macromolecular Isomerism for Phase Complexity in Janus Nanograins

It remains intriguing whether macromolecular isomerism, along with competing molecular interactions, could be leveraged to create unconventional phase structures and generate considerable phase complexity in soft matter. Herein, we report the synthesis, assembly, and phase behaviors of a series of precisely defined regioisomeric Janus nanograins with distinct core symmetry. They are named B₂DB₂ where B stands for iso-butyl-functionalized polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS) and D stands for dihydroxyl-functionalized POSS. While BPOSS prefers crystallization with a flat interface, DPOSS prefers to phase-separate from BPOSS. In solution, they form 2D crystals owing to strong BPOSS crystallization. In bulk, the subtle competition between crystallization and phase separation is strongly influenced by the core symmetry, leading to distinct phase structures and transition behaviors. The phase complexity was understood based on their symmetry, molecular packing, and free energy profiles. The results demonstrate that regioisomerism could indeed generate profound phase complexity.

Orchestrating Chemical and Physical Cross-Linking in Protein Hydrogels to Regulate Embryonic Stem Cell Growth

Protein hydrogels are ideal candidates for next-generation biomaterials due to their genetically programmable properties. Herein, we report an entirely protein-based hydrogel as an artificial extracellular matrix (ECM) for regulating the embryonic stem cell growth. A synergy between chemical and physical cross-linking was achieved in one step by SpyTag/SpyCatcher reaction and P zipper association at 37 °C. The hydrogels' stress relaxation behaviors can be tuned across a broad spectrum by single-point mutation on a P zipper. It has been found that faster relaxation can promote the growth of HeLa tumor spheroids and embryonic stem cells, and mechanical regulation of embryonic stem cells occurs via retention of the cells at the G1 phase. The results highlight the promise of genetically encoded protein materials as a platform of artificial ECM for understanding and controlling the complex cell-matrix interactions in a 3D cell culture.

Conjugated Polymers in Solution: A Physical Perspective

Excellent progress has been made in the optoelectronic properties of conjugated polymers by controlling solution-state aggregation. However, due to the wide variety and complex structures of conjugated polymers, it is still challenging to fully understand the complex aggregation process and microstructures both in solution and in the solid state. This Perspective focuses on the chain conformations and the aggregation of conjugated polymers in solution. We discuss the factors in detail which affect solution-state aggregation and microstructures from the perspective of polymer physics in solutions, including chemical structures and environmental conditions. Based on the understanding of multiple interactions of conjugated polymers in solution, strategies to regulate solid-state microstructures and obtain high-performance polymer-based devices from solution-state aggregation are summarized.

The FabA-FabB Pathway Is Not Essential for Unsaturated Fatty Acid Synthesis but Modulates Diffusible Signal Factor Synthesis in Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris

Most bacteria use type II fatty acid synthesis (FAS) systems for synthesizing fatty acids, of which the conserved FabA-FabB pathway is considered to be crucial for unsaturated fatty acid (UFA) synthesis in gram-negative bacteria. Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris, the phytopathogen of black rot disease in crucifers, produces higher quantities of UFAs under low-temperature conditions for increasing membrane fluidity. The fabA and fabB genes were identified in the X. campestris pv. campestris genome by BLAST analysis; however, the growth of the X. campestris pv. campestris fabA and fabB deletion mutants was comparable to that of the wild-type strain in nutrient and minimal media. The X. campestris pv. campestris ΔfabA and ΔfabB strains produced large quantities of UFAs and, altogether, these results indicated that the FabA-FabB pathway is not essential for growth or UFA synthesis in X. campestris pv. campestris. We also observed that the expression of X. campestris pv. campestris fabA and fabB restored the growth of the temperature-sensitive Escherichia coli fabA and fabB mutants CL104 and CY242, respectively, under non-permissive conditions. The in-vitro assays demonstrated that the FabA and FabB proteins of X. campestris pv. campestris catalyzed FAS. Our study also demonstrated that the production of diffusible signal factor family signals that mediate quorum sensing was higher in the X. campestris pv. campestris ΔfabA and ΔfabB strains and greatly reduced in the complementary strains, which exhibited reduced swimming motility and attenuated host-plant pathogenicity. [Formula: see text] Copyright © 2023 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY 4.0 International license.

The value of serum methylated septin 9 and carcinoembryonic antigen in efficacy evaluation and follow-up monitoring of colorectal cancer

This study explored the value of the detection of serum methylated septin 9 (mSEPT9) and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in the auxiliary diagnosis, curative effect evaluation, and follow-up monitoring of colorectal cancer (CRC). The diagnosis and treatment data of 208 CRC patients in the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University (China) were collected from March 2019 to December 2019, and these patients were followed up. The correlation between serum CEA, mSEPT9 levels, and tumor location and size were analyzed. Serum mSEPT9 and CEA were detected before and after surgery and during follow-up after treatment to analyze the value of mSEPT9 in efficacy evaluation and follow-up monitoring. In 87 patients with CRC patients who underwent surgery, the average size of poorly differentiated tumors was the largest (25.01±14.08 cm2), which was significantly different from that of moderately differentiated tumors (P =0.039). There was a statistically significant difference in serum CEA level among different degrees of differentiation (P=0.018). The level of CEA was relatively low when tumors occurred in the transverse and ascending colon. When the level of CEA was high, negative mSEPT9 suggested that the probability of a tumor occurring in the cecum was high; positive mSEPT9 indicated that the tumor was highly likely to occur in the descending or sigmoid colon. Detection before and after surgery revealed that the level of mSEPT9 may be related to the tumor-bearing state of patients. A Follow-up study also showed that the sensitivity and specificity of mSEPT9 for recurrence and metastasis were 83.3% and 97.7%, respectively, and the sensitivity and specificity of CEA were 61.1% and 89.5%, respectively. The combined detection of mSEPT9 and CEA can indicate the location and size of colorectal cancer, while the detection of serum mSEPT9 may have clinical significance in the efficacy evaluation and follow-up monitoring of colorectal cancer. KEY WORDS: Colorectal Cancer, mSEPT9, Recurrence, Metastasis, CEA.

ABC-Type, Bola-Form Giant Surfactants: Synthesis and Self-Assembly

Due to the fast phase separation kinetics and small feature size, the self-assembly of giant molecules has attracted lots of attention. However, there is not much study on multicomponent giant surfactants. In this work, through a modular synthetic strategy, different polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS)-based molecular nanoparticles are installed with diverse functionalities (hydrophobic octavinyl POSS (VPOSS), hydrophilic dihydroxyl-functionalized POSS (DPOSS), and omniphobic perfluoroalkyl-chain-functionalized POSS (FPOSS)) on the ends of one polystyrene (PS) chain to build up a series of triblock bola-form giant surfactants denoted as XPOSS-PS_n -FPOSS (X represents V or D). The target molecules are prepared by a combination of atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP), esterification, as well as Cu(I)-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) and thiol-ene "click" reactions. These macromolecules are thoroughly characterized by combined technologies including nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), size exclusion chromatography (SEC), and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) analyses. It is revealed by small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) that VPOSS-PS_n -FPOSS adopts a two-phase separation scenario where VPOSS and POSS are segregated in one phase. DPOSS-PS_n -FPOSS with a third hydrophilic DPOSS shows a three-phase separation scenario, where highly ordered phase structures are difficult to develop owing to the competition of mutual phase separation processes and may be trapped in kinetically metastable states.

IL-1β and Allergy: Focusing on Its Role in Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a chronic upper airway immune-inflammation response mediated by immunoglobulin E (IgE) to allergens and can seriously affect the quality of life and work efficiency. Previous studies have shown that interleukin-1β (IL-1β) acts as a key cytokine to participate in and promote the occurrence and development of allergic diseases. It has been proposed that IL-1β may be a potential biomarker of AR. However, its definitive role and potential mechanism in AR have not been fully elucidated, and the clinical sample collection and detection methods were inconsistent among different studies, which have limited the use of IL-1β as a clinical diagnosis and treatment marker for AR. This article systematically summarizes the research advances in the roles of IL-1β in allergic diseases, focusing on the changes of IL-1β in AR and the possible interventions. In addition, based on the findings by our team, we provided new insights into the use of IL-1β in AR diagnosis and treatment, in an attempt to further promote the clinical application of IL-1β in AR and other allergic diseases.

Efficacy of mobile-based cognitive behavior therapy on lowering low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease patients: a multicenter, prospective, randomized controlled tria (Preprint)

BACKGROUND

Elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is an established risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). However, low adherence to medication and lifestyle management has limited the benefits of lowering lipid levels. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been proposed as a promising solution.

OBJECTIVE

This trial aimed to evaluate the efficacy of mobile-based CBT interventions in lowering LDL-C levels in patients with ASCVD.

METHODS

This multicenter, prospective, randomized controlled trial enrolled 300 patients with ASCVD, who were randomly assigned to the mobile-based CBT intervention group and the control group in a ratio of 1:1. The intervention group received CBT for ASCVD lifestyle interventions delivered by WeChat MiniApp: "CBT ASCVD." The control group only received routine health education during each follow-up. The linear regression and logistic regression analyses were used to determine the effects of a mobile-based CBT intervention on LDL-C, triglyceride, C-reactive protein, the score of General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSE), quality of life index (QL-index), and LDL-C up-to-standard rate (<1.8 mmol/L) at the first, third, and sixth months.

RESULTS

Finally, 296 participants completed the 6-month follow-up (CBT group: n=148; control group: n=148). At baseline, the mean LDL-C level was 2.48 (SD 0.90) mmol/L, and the LDL-C up-to-standard rate (<1.8 mmol/L) was 21.3%. Mobile-based CBT intervention significantly increased the reduction of LDL-C change (%) at the 6-month follow-up (β=-10.026, 95% CI -18.111 to -1.940). In addition, this benefit remained when baseline LDL-C <1.8 mmol/L (β=-24.103, 95% CI -43.110 to -5.095). Logistic regression analysis showed that mobile-based CBT intervention moderately increased the LDL-C up-to-standard rates (<1.8 mmol/L) in the sixth month (odds ratio 1.579, 95% CI 0.994-2.508). For GSE and QL-index, mobile-based CBT intervention significantly increased the change of scores (%) at the 1-, 3-, and 6-month follow-up (all P values <.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with ASCVD, mobile-based CBT is effective in reducing LDL-C levels (even for those who already had a standard LDL-C) and can improve self-efficacy and quality of life.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2100046775; https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=127140.

Efficacy and Safety of Low-Dose Interleukin 2 for Primary Sjögren Syndrome: A Randomized Clinical Trial

IMPORTANCE

Primary Sjögren syndrome (pSS) is a systemic autoimmune disease associated with dysregulated immune cells, with no efficient therapy. There is a need to study potential therapeutic approaches.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the efficacy, safety, and immune response of low-dose interleukin 2 (LD-IL-2) in the treatment of pSS.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

A double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial was conducted with a 2-group superiority design from June 2015 to August 2017. Sixty patients, aged 18 to 70 years, were recruited from Peking University People's Hospital. Efficacy analyses were based on the intention-to-treat (ITT) principle. Data were analyzed from December 2018 to March 2020.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients with pSS were treated with LD-IL-2 or placebo for 12 weeks and accompanied by 12 weeks of follow-up.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary end point was defined as a 3-point or greater improvement on the European League Against Rheumatism Sjögren's Syndrome Disease Activity Index (ESSDAI) by week 24. The secondary end points included other clinical responses, safety, and changes of immune cell subsets at week 12 and 24.

RESULTS

Sixty patients with pSS were recruited, with 30 in the LD-IL-2 group (mean [SD] age, 47.6 [12.8] years; 30 [100%] women) and 30 in the placebo group (mean [SD] age, 51.0 [11.9] years; 30 [100%] women), and 57 completed the trial. More patients in the LD-IL-2 group (20 [66.7%]) achieved ESSDAI score reduction of at least 3 points than in the placebo group (8 [26.7%]) at week 24 (P = .004). There were greater resolutions of dryness, pain, and fatigue in the LD-IL-2 group than placebo group at week 12 (dryness: difference, -18.33 points; 95% CI, -28.46 to -8.21 points; P = .001; pain: difference, -10.33 points; 95% CI, -19.38 to -1.29 points; P = .03; fatigue: difference, -11.67 points; 95% CI, -20.65 to -2.68 points; P = .01). No severe adverse events were observed in either group. In addition, the LD-IL-2 group showed a significant decrease in infection compared with the placebo group (1 [3.3%] vs 9 [30.0%]; P = .006). Immunological analysis revealed that LD-IL-2 promoted an expansion of regulatory T cells and regulatory CD24highCD27+ B cells.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In this randomized clinical trial, LD-IL-2 was effective and well tolerated in patients with pSS, and it restored immune balance, with enhanced regulatory T cells and CD24highCD27+ B cells.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02464319.

Mechano-bioconjugation Strategy Empowering Fusion Protein Therapeutics with Aggregation Resistance, Prolonged Circulation, and Enhanced Antitumor Efficacy

Bioconjugation is a powerful protein modification strategy to improve protein properties. Herein, we report mechano-bioconjugation as a novel approach to empower fusion protein therapeutics and demonstrate its utility by a protein heterocatenane (cat-IFN-ABD) containing interferon-α2b (IFN) mechanically interlocked with a consensus albumin-binding domain (ABD). The conjugate was selectively synthesized in cellulo following a cascade of post-translational events using a pair of heterodimerizing p53dim variants and two orthogonal split-intein reactions. The catenane topology was proven by combined techniques of LC-MS, SDS-PAGE, SEC, and controlled proteolytic digestion. Not only did cat-IFN-ABD retain activities comparable to those of the wild-type IFN and ABD, the conjugate also exhibited enhanced aggregation resistance and prolonged circulation time over the simple linear and cyclic fusions. Consequently, cat-IFN-ABD potently inhibited tumor growth in the mouse xenograft model. Therefore, mechano-bioconjugation by catenation accomplishes function integration with additional benefits, providing an alternative pathway for developing advanced protein therapeutics.

Of its five acyl carrier proteins, only AcpP1 functions in Ralstonia solanacearum fatty acid synthesis

The fatty acid synthesis (FAS) pathway is essential for bacterial survival. Acyl carrier proteins (ACPs), donors of acyl moieties, play a central role in FAS and are considered potential targets for the development of antibacterial agents. Ralstonia solanacearum, a primary phytopathogenic bacterium, causes bacterial wilt in more than 200 plant species. The genome of R. solanacearum contains five annotated acp genes, acpP1, acpP2, acpP3, acpP4, and acpP5. In this study, we characterized the five putative ACPs and confirmed that only AcpP1 is involved in FAS and is necessary for the growth of R. solanacearum. We also found that AcpP2 and AcpP4 participate in the polyketide synthesis pathway. Unexpectedly, the disruption of four acp genes (acpP2, acpP3, acpP4, and acpP5) allowed the mutant strain to grow as well as the wild-type strain, but attenuated the bacterium’s pathogenicity in the host plant tomato, suggesting that these four ACPs contribute to the virulence of R. solanacearum through mechanisms other than the FAS pathway.

Peptide/protein-based macrocycles: from biological synthesis to biomedical applications

Living organisms have evolved cyclic or multicyclic peptides and proteins with enhanced stability and high bioactivity superior to their linear counterparts for diverse purposes. Herein, we review recent progress in applying this concept to artificial peptides and proteins to exploit the functional benefits of these macrocycles. Not only have simple cyclic forms been prepared, numerous macrocycle variants, such as knots and links, have also been developed. The chemical tools and synthetic strategies are summarized for the biological synthesis of these macrocycles, demonstrating it as a powerful alternative to chemical synthesis. Its further application to therapeutic peptides/proteins has led to biomedicines with profoundly improved pharmaceutical performances. Finally, we present our perspectives on the field and its future developments.

Effect of mobile-based cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) on lowering of blood lipid levels in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) patients: study protocol for a multicenter, prospective, randomized controlled trial

Background

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) remains a major source of mortality in China. Convincing evidence has demonstrated that the reduction of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is correlated with lowering ASCVD risk. The efficacy of lifestyle management in lipid levels reduction has been confirmed in numerous studies. However, considering that low compliance to lifestyle management has limited the benefits of lowering lipid levels, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is proposed as a solution to improve clinical outcomes. The objective of this trial is to compare the LDL-C outcome in ASCVD patients receiving mobile device-based CBT to a control group, with both groups under standard pharmacological treatments.

Methods

This trial is designed as a multicenter, prospective randomized controlled trial with a 6-month follow-up. Mean LDL-C level and the percentage of different LDL-C levels, coefficient of variation of LDL, General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSEs), quality of life index (QL-index), etc., between the two groups at baseline, 1, 3, and 6 months will be measured.

Discussion

This trial should demonstrate that the implementation of mobile-based CBT intervention will be potentially effective in lowering LDL-C levels in ASCVD patients.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2100046775) [registered: 2021/5/28].

Untangling the changing impact of non-pharmaceutical interventions and vaccination on European COVID-19 trajectories

Non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) and vaccination are two fundamental approaches for mitigating the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. However, the real-world impact of NPIs versus vaccination, or a combination of both, on COVID-19 remains uncertain. To address this, we built a Bayesian inference model to assess the changing effect of NPIs and vaccination on reducing COVID-19 transmission, based on a large-scale dataset including epidemiological parameters, virus variants, vaccines, and climate factors in Europe from August 2020 to October 2021. We found that (1) the combined effect of NPIs and vaccination resulted in a 53% (95% confidence interval: 42–62%) reduction in reproduction number by October 2021, whereas NPIs and vaccination reduced the transmission by 35% and 38%, respectively; (2) compared with vaccination, the change of NPI effect was less sensitive to emerging variants; (3) the relative effect of NPIs declined 12% from May 2021 due to a lower stringency and the introduction of vaccination strategies. Our results demonstrate that NPIs were complementary to vaccination in an effort to reduce COVID-19 transmission, and the relaxation of NPIs might depend on vaccination rates, control targets, and vaccine effectiveness concerning extant and emerging variants.

Non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) and COVID-19 vaccination have been implemented concurrently, making their relative effects difficult to measure. Here, the authors show that effects of NPIs reduced as vaccine coverage increased, but that NPIs could still be important in the context of more transmissible variants.

HetI-Like Phosphopantetheinyl Transferase Posttranslationally Modifies Acyl Carrier Proteins in Xanthomonas spp

In Xanthomonas spp., the biosynthesis of the yellow pigment xanthomonadin and fatty acids originates in the type II polyketide synthase (PKS II) and fatty acid synthase (FAS) pathways, respectively. The acyl carrier protein (ACP) is the central component of PKS II and FAS and requires posttranslational phosphopantetheinylation to initiate these pathways. In this study, for the first time, we demonstrate that the posttranslational modification of ACPs in X. campestris pv. campestris is performed by an essential 4'-phosphopantetheinyl transferase (PPTase), XcHetI (encoded by Xc_4132). X. campestris pv. campestris strain XchetI could not be deleted from the X. campestris pv. campestris genome unless another PPTase-encoding gene such as Escherichia coli acpS or Pseudomonas aeruginosa pcpS was present. Compared with wild-type strain X. campestris pv. campestris 8004 and mutant XchetI::PapcpS, strain XchetI::EcacpS failed to generate xanthomonadin pigments and displayed reduced pathogenicity for the host plant, Brassica oleracea. Further experiments showed that the expression of XchetI restored the growth of E. coli acpS mutant HT253 and, when a plasmid bearing XchetI was introduced into P. aeruginosa, pcpS, which encodes the sole PPTase in P. aeruginosa, could be deleted. In in vitro enzymatic assays, XcHetI catalyzed the transformation of 4'-phosphopantetheine from coenzyme A to two X. campestris pv. campestris apo-acyl carrier proteins, XcAcpP and XcAcpC. All of these findings indicate that XcHetI is a surfactin PPTase-like PPTase with a broad substrate preference. Moreover, the HetI-like PPTase is ubiquitously conserved in Xanthomonas spp., making it a potential new drug target for the prevention of plant diseases caused by Xanthomonas.[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2022 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY 4.0 International license.

Effects of bilirubin on perioperative myocardial infarction and its long-term prognosis in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention

BACKGROUND

Although bilirubin is known to be an antioxidant, any relationship with coronary heart disease remains controversial. To the best of our knowledge, no previous study has investigated the association between bilirubin and perioperative myocardial infarction (PMI), including its long-term prognosis.

AIM

To investigate the impact of bilirubin levels on PMI in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), and long-term prognosis in post-PMI patients.

METHODS

Between January 2014 and September 2018, 10236 patients undergoing elective PCI were enrolled in the present study. Total bilirubin (TB) and cardiac troponin I (cTnI) levels were measured prior to PCI and cTnI at further time-points, 8, 16 and 24 h after PCI. Participants were stratified by pre-PCI TB levels and divided into three groups: < 10.2; 10.2-14.4 and > 14.4 μmol/L. PMI was defined as producing a post-procedural cTnI level of > 5 × upper limit of normal (ULN) with normal baseline cTnI. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) included cardiac death, MI, stroke and revascularization during a maximum 5-year follow-up.

RESULTS

PMI was detected in 526 (15.3%), 431 (12.7%) and 424 (12.5%) of patients with pre-PCI TB levels of < 10.2, 10.2-14.4 and > 14.4 μmol/L (P = 0.001), respectively. Multivariate logistical analysis indicated that patients with TB 10.2-14.4 and > 14.4 μmol/L had a lower incidence of PMI [TB 10.2-14.4 μmol/L: Odds ratio (OR): 0.854; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.739-0.987; P = 0.032; TB > 14.4 μmol/L: OR: 0.846; 95%CI: 0.735-0.975; P = 0.021] compared with patients with TB < 10.2 μmol/L. Construction of a Kaplan-Meier curve demonstrated a higher MACE-free survival time for patients with higher TB than for those with lower TB (log-rank P = 0.022). After adjustment for cardiovascular risk factors and angiographic characteristics, multivariate Cox analysis showed that a TB level > 14.4 μmol/L was associated with a reduced risk of MACEs compared with a TB level < 10.2 μmol/L (hazard ratio 0. 667; 95%CI: 0.485-0.918; P = 0.013).

CONCLUSION

Bilirubin was a protective factor in PMI prediction. For post-PMI patients, elevated bilirubin levels were independently associated with a reduced risk of MACEs during long-term follow-up.

Impacts of worldwide individual non-pharmaceutical interventions on COVID-19 transmission across waves and space

Governments worldwide have rapidly deployed non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) to mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the effect of these individual NPI measures across space and time has yet to be sufficiently assessed, especially with the increase of policy fatigue and the urge for NPI relaxation in the vaccination era. Using the decay ratio in the suppression of COVID-19 infections and multi-source big data, we investigated the changing performance of different NPIs across waves from global and regional levels (in 133 countries) to national and subnational (in the United States of America [USA]) scales before the implementation of mass vaccination. The synergistic effectiveness of all NPIs for reducing COVID-19 infections declined along waves, from 95.4% in the first wave to 56.0% in the third wave recently at the global level and similarly from 83.3% to 58.7% at the USA national level, while it had fluctuating performance across waves on regional and subnational scales. Regardless of geographical scale, gathering restrictions and facial coverings played significant roles in epidemic mitigation before the vaccine rollout. Our findings have important implications for continued tailoring and implementation of NPI strategies, together with vaccination, to mitigate future COVID-19 waves, caused by new variants, and other emerging respiratory infectious diseases.

Genetically engineered materials: Proteins and beyond

Information-rich molecules provide opportunities for evolution. Genetically engineered materials are superior in that their properties are coded within genetic sequences and could be fine-tuned. In this review, we elaborate the concept of genetically engineered materials (GEMs) using examples ranging from engineered protein materials to engineered living materials. Protein-based materials are the materials of choice by nature. Recent progress in protein engineering has led to opportunities to tune their sequences for optimal material performance. Proteins also play a central role in living materials where they act in concert with other biological components as well as nonbiological cofactors, giving rise to living features. While the existing GEMs are often limited to those constructed by building blocks of biological origin, being genetically engineerable does not preclude nonbiologic or synthetic materials, the latter of which have yet to be fully explored.

Predictors and clinical significance of periprocedural myocardial infarction following rotational atherectomy

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the potential predictors and clinical significance of periprocedural myocardial infarction (PMI), as defined by the latest Fourth Universal Definition of Myocardial Infarction (2018), following rotational atherectomy (RA).

BACKGROUND

PMI is not uncommon in patients undergoing RA, although the predictors and prognostic impact are unknown.

METHODS

Data from 229 consecutive patients who had undergone RA before drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation in a single center were analyzed. Patients' demographic information, clinical, angiographic, and procedural characteristics, and 1-year follow-up outcomes were collected retrospectively.

RESULTS

The overall incidence of PMI in patients undergoing RA was 48.5%. Age (adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 1.024, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.001-1.047, p = 0.043) and ejection fraction (adjusted OR: 0.977, 95% CI: 0.962-0.993, p = 0.004) were independent predictors of PMI in RA, although PMI was not associated with an increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) at the 1-year follow-up in patients undergoing RA.

CONCLUSION

Age and ejection fraction were independently associated with an elevated risk of PMI in patients undergoing RA. However, post-RA microinfarcts were not associated with an increased risk of MACCEs over the short-term follow-up period.

[Application of diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging in evaluating the efficacy of radiotherapy and chemotherapy for esophageal cancer]

This study was a prospective single arm trial conducted in Zhejiang Jinhua Guangfu hospital from February 2018 to June 2020. A total of 39 patients (32 males and 7 females) with esophageal cancer, aged from 44 to 82 (69±9) years were enrolled. Diffusion weighted magnetic resonance imaging(MR-DWI) was implemented to evaluate the changes of apparent diffusion coefficient(ADC) value before and after chemoradiotherapy. The results showed that the ADC value after chemoradiotherapy was higher than that before treatment[(2.03±0.42)×10⁻³ mm ²/s vs (1.60±0.28)×10⁻³ mm²/s], and there was a positive correlation between the increase of ADC value and the prognosis of patients.

Higher Order Protein Catenation Leads to an Artificial Antibody with Enhanced Affinity and In Vivo Stability

The chemical topology is a unique dimension for protein engineering, yet the topological diversity and architectural complexity of proteins remain largely untapped. Herein, we report the biosynthesis of complex topological proteins using a rationally engineered, cross-entwining peptide heterodimer motif derived from p53dim (an entangled homodimeric mutant of the tetramerization domain of the tumor suppressor protein p53). The incorporation of an electrostatic interaction at specific sites converts the p53dim homodimer motif into a pair of heterodimer motifs with high specificity for directing chain entanglement upon folding. Its combination with split-intein-mediated ligation and/or SpyTag/SpyCatcher chemistry facilitates the programmed synthesis of protein heterocatenane or [n]catenanes in cells, leading to a general and modular approach to complex protein catenanes containing various proteins of interest. Concatenation enhances not only the target protein's affinity but also the in vivo stability as shown by its prolonged circulation time in blood. As a proof of concept, artificial antibodies have been developed by embedding a human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-specific affibody onto the [n]catenane scaffolds and shown to exhibit a higher affinity and a better pharmacokinetic profile than the wild-type affibody. These results suggest that topology engineering holds great promise in the development of therapeutic proteins.

Bioinspired NO release coating enhances endothelial cells and inhibits smooth muscle cells

Thrombus and restenosis after stent implantation are the major complications because traditional drugs such as rapamycin delay the process of endothelialization. Nitric oxide (NO) is mainly produced by endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) on the membrane of endothelial cells (ECs) in the cardiovascular system and plays an important role in vasomotor function. It strongly inhibits the proliferation of smooth muscle cells (SMCs) and ameliorates endothelial function when ECs get hurt. Inspired by this, introducing NO to traditional stent coating may alleviate endothelial insufficiency caused by rapamycin. Here, we introduced SNAP as the NO donor, mimicking how NO affects in vivo, into rapamycin coating to alleviate endothelial damage while inhibiting SMC proliferation. Through wicking effects, SNAP was absorbed into a hierarchical coating that had an upper porous layer and a dense polymer layer with rapamycin at the bottom. Cells were cultured on the coatings, and it was observed that the injured ECs were restored while the growth of SMCs further diminished. Genome analysis was conducted to further clarify possible signaling pathways: the effect of cell growth attenuated by NO may cause by affecting cell cycle and enhancing inflammation. These findings supported the idea that introducing NO to traditional drug-eluting stents alleviates incomplete endothelialization and further inhibits the stenosis caused by the proliferation of SMCs.

Phase Behaviors of Giant Surfactants with Different Numbers of Fluorinated Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane "Heads" and One Poly(ethylene oxide) "Tail" at the Air-Water Interface

Giant surfactants with different numbers of aryl-trifluorovinyl ether-functionalized polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (FVPOSS) heads and one poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) tail, (FVPOSS)_n-PEO₂₂₇, are precisely synthesized. The phase behaviors of (FVPOSS)_n-PEO₂₂₇ at the air-water interface were investigated through surface pressure measurements (isotherm and hysteresis experiments) and the Brewster angle microscopy. Upon increasing the number of FVPOSS heads, the interfacial behaviors of these giant surfactants greatly change. More phase transitions occur during the compression as the number of FVPOSS heads increased from one to two and three. The evolution of morphologies of Langmuir films and compression-expansion hysteresis curves further illustrate phase transitions at the air-water interface. Furthermore, molecular mechanisms to describe phase transitions of (FVPOSS)_n-PEO₂₂₇ at the interface are put forward. This study deepens the understanding of interfacial phase behaviors of special giant surfactants and provides knowledge of nanostructure design and construction at the interface.

Intrastent haematoma after treatment with a drug-eluting balloon for in-stent restenosis: a case report

Background

Intrastent haematoma after dilatation of in-stent restenosis (ISR) is rarely reported and the optimal treatment for this condition remains unclear.

Case summary

We present the case of an 87-year-old man with in-stent subtotal occlusion of left circumflex. He experienced chest pain after drug-eluting balloon was released in the stent. Intravascular ultrasound revealed intrastent haematoma, which was not relieved with a cutting balloon but completely sealed by an Endeavor Resolute stent.

Discussion

Intrastent haematoma after dilatation of ISR is rare. Reimplantation of stent seems the best method to solve this problem. Intravascular ultrasound imaging may provide insight into the cause of ISR and guide the treatment.

Neurogenic orthostatic hypotension with Parkinson's disease as a cause of syncope: A case report

BACKGROUND

Syncope presents with diagnostic challenges and is associated with high healthcare costs. Neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (nOH) as one cause of syncope is not well established. We review a case of syncope caused by nOH in a patient with Parkinson's disease.

CASE SUMMARY

We describe a case of syncope caused by nOH in Parkinson's disease and review the literature. A 70-year-old man with Parkinson's disease had uncontrolled blood pressure for 1 mo, with blood pressure ranging from 70/40 to 220/112 mmHg, and once lost consciousness lasting for several minutes after getting up. Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring indicated nocturnal hypertension (up to 217/110 mmHg) and morning orthostatic hypotension (as low as 73/45 mmHg). Seated-to-standing blood pressure measurement showed that the blood pressure dropped from 173/96 mmHg to 95/68 mmHg after standing for 3 min from supine position. A diagnosis of nOH with supine hypertension was made. During the course of treatment, Midodrine could not improve the symptoms. Finally, the patient's blood pressure stabilized with simple strategies by strengthening exercises, reducing the duration of lying in bed in the daytime, and consuming water intake before getting up.

CONCLUSION

nOH is one of the causes of syncope. Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring is a cost-effective method for its diagnosis, and non-pharmacological measures are still the primary management methods.

Crowding-Induced Unconventional Phase Behaviors in Dendritic Rodlike Molecules via Side-Chain Engineering

Dendritic molecules with a fanlike or conelike conformation are common molecular building blocks to construct supramolecular columnar or spherical phases. Although it is well-accepted that the preferred molecular conformation of dendritic molecules dictates their packing schemes, manipulation of this crucial parameter usually requires significant changes in molecular structures and tedious synthetic efforts. Herein, we report a simple yet highly efficient strategy to tune the molecular conformation of dendritic rodlike molecules by adjusting the length of alkyl side chains tethered to the rods. Strikingly, tiny chemical structure differences can largely change the "crowding" near the branching point to induce the "fanlike to conelike" conformational transitions and thus result in the formation of diverse supramolecular structures, including the columnar phase, double gyroid phase, and the unconventional Frank-Kasper σ and A15 phases. Our study provides a practical platform for further investigation of unconventional structure formation and phase transitions in soft matter.

Prediction of presence and severity of coronary artery disease using prediction for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk in China scoring system

BACKGROUND

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the leading causes of death and disease burden in China and worldwide. A practical and reliable prediction scoring system for CAD risk and severity evaluation is urgently needed for primary prevention.

AIM

To examine whether the prediction for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk in China (China-PAR) scoring system could be used for this purpose.

METHODS

A total of 6813 consecutive patients who underwent diagnostic coronary angiography were enrolled. The China-PAR score was calculated for each patient and CAD severity was assessed by the Gensini score (GS).

RESULTS

Correlation analysis demonstrated a significant relationship between China-PAR and GS (r = 0.266, P < 0.001). In receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, the cut-off values of China-PAR for predicting the presence and the severity of CAD were 7.55% with a sensitivity of 55.8% and specificity of 71.8% [area under the curve (AUC) = 0.693, 95% confidence interval: 0.681 to 0.706, P < 0.001], and 7.45% with a sensitivity of 58.8% and specificity of 67.2% (AUC = 0.680, 95% confidence interval: 0.665 to 0.694, P < 0.001), respectively.

CONCLUSION

The China-PAR scoring system may be useful in predicting the presence and severity of CAD.

Protein Conjugation via SpyStapler-Mediated SpyTag/BDTag Coupling

Genetically encoded peptide-protein coupling reactions, such as the SpyTag/SpyCatcher chemistry, are recent additions to the expanding toolbox of protein bioconjugation. The alternative three-component ligation system, e.g., SpyStapler-mediated SpyTag/BDTag coupling, retains most advantages of the Tag/Catcher chemistry, yet requires only two short peptide tags in the genetic fusion for side-chain ligation. Not only does this facilitate the construction of large protein conjugates directly from as-expressed protein components with minimal disruption to their function, but it also provides an entirely new mode of bioconjugation via mechanical bonding, which could impart additional functional benefits such as improved activity and enhanced stability to the conjugate. Such features are attractive for improving the pharmacokinetic performance of protein therapeutics. Herein we describe protocols for SpyStapler-mediated SpyTag/BDTag coupling for protein bioconjugation. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Conjugation via isopeptide bond Support Protocol: Purification by size-exclusion chromatography Basic Protocol 2: Conjugation via mechanical bond.