Aiming at early-stage vulnerable plaques: A nanoplatform with dual-mode imaging and lipid-inflammation integrated regulation for atherosclerotic theranostics

The vulnerable plaques in atherosclerosis can cause severe outcome with great danger of acute cardiovascular events. Thus, timely diagnosis and treatment of vulnerable plaques in early stage can effectively benefit the clinical management of atherosclerosis. In this work, a targeting theranostic strategy on early-stage vulnerable plaques in atherosclerosis is realized by a LAID nanoplatform with X-CT and fluorescent dual-mode imaging and lipid-inflammation integrated regulation abilities. The iodinated contrast agents (ICA), phenylboronic acid modified astaxanthin and oxidized-dextran (oxDEX) jointly construct the nanoparticles loaded with the lipid-specific probe LFP. LAID indicates an active targeting to plaques along with the dual-responsive disassembly in oxidative stress and acidic microenvironment of atherosclerosis. The X-CT signals of ICA execute the location of early-stage plaques, while the LFP combines with lipid cores and realizes the recognition of vulnerable plaques. Meanwhile, the treatment based on astaxanthin is performed for restraining the progression of plaques. Transcriptome sequencing suggests that LAID can inhibit the lipid uptake and block NF-κB pathway, which synergistically demonstrates a lipid-inflammation integrated regulation to suppression the plaques growing. The in vivo investigations suggest that LAID delivers a favorable theranostics to the early-stage vulnerable plaques, which provides an impressive prospect for reducing the adverse prognosis of atherosclerosis.

Identification of Panax notoginseng origin using terahertz precision spectroscopy and neural network algorithm

Panax notoginseng (P. notoginseng), a Chinese herb containing various saponins, benefits immune system in medicines development, which from Wenshan (authentic cultivation) is often counterfeited by others for large demand and limited supply. Here, we proposed a method for identifying P. notoginseng origin combining terahertz (THz) precision spectroscopy and neural network. Based on the comparative analysis of four qualitative identification methods, we chose high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and THz spectroscopy to detect 252 samples from five origins. After classifications using Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) model, we found that the performance of THz spectra was superior to that of HPLC. The underlying mechanism is that there are clear nonlinear relations among the THz spectra and the origins due to the wide spectra and multi-parameter characteristics, which makes the accuracy of five-classification origin identification up to 97.62%. This study realizes the rapid, non-destructive and accurate identification of P. notoginseng origin, providing a practical reference for herbal medicine.

Long noncoding RNA MALAT-1: A versatile regulator in cancer progression, metastasis, immunity, and therapeutic resistance

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are RNA transcripts longer than 200 nucleotides that do not code for proteins but have been linked to cancer development and metastasis. Metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT-1) influences crucial cancer hallmarks through intricate molecular mechanisms, including proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis, apoptosis, and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). The current article highlights the involvement of MALAT-1 in drug resistance, making it a potential target to overcome chemotherapy refractoriness. It discusses the impact of MALAT-1 on immunomodulatory molecules, such as major histocompatibility complex (MHC) proteins and PD-L1, leading to immune evasion and hindering anti-tumor immune responses. MALAT-1 also plays a significant role in cancer immunology by regulating diverse immune cell populations. In summary, MALAT-1 is a versatile cancer regulator, influencing tumorigenesis, chemoresistance, and immunotherapy responses. Understanding its precise molecular mechanisms is crucial for developing targeted therapies, and therapeutic strategies targeting MALAT-1 show promise for improving cancer treatment outcomes. However, further research is needed to fully uncover the role of MALAT-1 in cancer biology and translate these findings into clinical applications.

The acetylation of MDH1 and IDH1 is associated with energy metabolism in acute liver failure

The liver is the main organ associated with metabolism. In our previous studies, we identified that the metabolic enzymes malate dehydrogenase 1 (MDH1) and isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) were differentially expressed in ALF. The aim of this study was to explore the changes in the acetylation of MDH1 and IDH1 and the therapeutic effect of histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor in acute liver failure (ALF). Decreased levels of many metabolites were observed in ALF patients. MDH1 and IDH1 were decreased in the livers of ALF patients. The HDAC inhibitor ACY1215 improved the expression of MDH1 and IDH1 after treatment with MDH1-siRNA and IDH1-siRNA. Transfection with mutant plasmids and adeno-associated viruses, identified MDH1 K118 acetylation and IDH1 K93 acetylation as two important sites that regulate metabolism in vitro and in vivo.

Ultrafast photoinduced C-H bond formation from two small inorganic molecules

The formation of carbon-hydrogen (C-H) bonds via the reaction of small inorganic molecules is of great significance for understanding the fundamental transition from inorganic to organic matter, and thus the origin of life. Yet, the detailed mechanism of the C-H bond formation, particularly the time scale and molecular-level control of the dynamics, remain elusive. Here, we investigate the light-induced bimolecular reaction starting from a van der Waals molecular dimer composed of two small inorganic molecules, H2 and CO. Employing reaction microscopy driven by a tailored two-color light field, we identify the pathways leading to C-H photobonding thereby producing HCO+ ions, and achieve coherent control over the reaction dynamics. Using a femtosecond pump-probe scheme, we capture the ultrafast formation time, i.e., 198 ± 16 femtoseconds. The real-time visualization and coherent control of the dynamics contribute to a deeper understanding of the most fundamental bimolecular reactions responsible for C-H bond formation, thus contributing to elucidate the emergence of organic components in the universe.

Protocol for electrocatalytic hydrogenation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural using H and flow cells

Recently, there has been a growing interest in using sustainable energy to decrease lignin monomers to generate high-value-added products. Here, we present a protocol for electrocatalytic hydrogenation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural. We describe steps for catalyst preparation, performing electrocatalytic experiments, high-performance liquid chromatography analysis, and in situ infrared reflection-absorption spectroscopy testing. The synthesized catalyst used in this reaction exhibits enhanced selectivity and Faradaic efficiency in NaClO4 solution. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Zhang et al.1.

Testosterone synthesis was inhibited in the testis metabolomics of a depression mouse model

INTRODUCTION

Depression is a common emotional disorder. Previous studies have suggested that depression is associated with the central nervous system. Recent studies have suggested that reduced testosterone level is the core inducement of depression. Testis is the vital organ for the synthesis of testosterone. How does testis mediate depression is still unknown.

OBJECTIVES

We adopted a classical depression model of mouse caused through chronic mild stress (CMS). The metabolomics liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry was adopted to analyse the influence of CMS on testis metabolism. Then we confirmed the possible abnormal metabolism of the testis in depression mice by pathway analysis and molecular biological technique.

RESULTS

Compared with control mice, 16 differential metabolites were found in CMS mice by multivariate statistical analysis. In comparison with control mice, CMS mice showed higher levels for campesterol, ribitol, citric acid, platelet activating factor, guanosine, cytosine and xanthine and lower levels for docosahexaenoic acid, hippuric acid, creatine, testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone, progesterone, l-carnitine, acetyl carnitine and propionyl carnitine. The pathway analysis indicated that these differential metabolites are associated with steroid hormone synthesis, purine metabolism and phenylalanine metabolism. In addition, we also first discovered that testicular morphology in depression mice was damaged and steroid hormone synthetases (including steroidogenic acute regulatory protein and P450 cholesterol side chain cleavage) were inhibited.

CONCLUSION

These findings may be helpful to parse molecular mechanisms of pathophysiology of depression. It also pointed out the direction to search for potential therapy schedules for male depression and provide novel insights into exploring the pathogenesis of male depression.

Diagnostic accuracy of radiomics-based machine learning for neoadjuvant chemotherapy response and survival prediction in gastric cancer patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

In recent years, researchers have explored the use of radiomics to predict neoadjuvant chemotherapy outcomes in gastric cancer (GC). Yet, a lingering debate persists regarding the accuracy of these predictions. Against this backdrop, this study was conducted to examine the accuracy of radiomics in predicting the response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in GC patients.

METHODS

An exhaustive search of relevant studies was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, and Web of Science databases up to February 21, 2023. The radiomics quality scoring (RQS) tool was employed to assess study quality. Tumor response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy and survival outcomes were examined as outcome measures.

RESULTS

Fourteen studies involving 3,373 GC patients who had received neoadjuvant chemotherapy were incorporated in our meta-analysis. The mean RQS score across all studies was 36.3%, ranging between 0 and 63.9%. On the validation cohort, when the modeling variables were restricted to radiomic features alone, the predictive performance was characterized by a c-index of 0.750 (95% CI: 0.710-0.790), with a sensitivity of 0.67 (95% CI: 0.58-0.75) and a specificity of 0.77 (95% CI: 0.69-0.84) for the prediction of neoadjuvant chemotherapy response. When clinical data was integrated with radiomic features as modeling variables, the predictive performance improved, yielding a c-index of 0.814 (95% CI: 0.780-0.847), a sensitivity of 0.78 [95% CI: 0.70-0.84], and a specificity of 0.73 [95% CI: 0.67-0.79].

CONCLUSIONS

Radiomics holds promise to noninvasively predict neoadjuvant chemotherapy response and survival outcomes among patients with locally advanced GC. Additionally, we underscore the need for future multicenter studies and the development of imaging-sourced tools for risk stratification in this patient population.

The guiding effect of local field potential during deep brain stimulation surgery for programming in Parkinson's disease patients

BACKGROUND

Parkinson's disease (PD) patients undergoing deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery require subsequent programming, which is complex and cumbersome. The local field potential (LFP) in the deep brain is associated with motor symptom improvement. The current study aimed to identify LFP biomarkers correlated with improved motor symptoms in PD patients after DBS and verify their guiding role in postoperative programming.

METHODS

Initially, the study included 36 PD patients undergoing DBS surgery. Temporary external electrical stimulation was performed during electrode implantation, and LFP signals around the electrode contacts were collected before and after stimulation. The stimulating contact at 6 months of programming was regarded as the optimal and effective stimulating contact. The LFP signal of this contact during surgery was analyzed to identify potential LFP biomarkers. Next, we randomly assigned another 30 PD patients who had undergone DBS to physician empirical programming and LFP biomarker-guided programming groups and compared the outcomes.

RESULTS

In the first part of the study, LFP signals of electrode contacts changed after electrical stimulation. Electrical stimulation reduced gamma energy and the beta/alpha oscillation ratio. The different programming method groups were compared, indicating the superiority of beta/alpha oscillations ratio-guided programming over physician experience programming for patients' improvement rate (IR) of UPDRS-III. There were no significant differences in the IR of UPDRS-III, post-LED, IR-PDQ39, number of programmings, and the contact change rate between the gamma oscillations-guided programming and empirical programming groups.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the findings reveal that gamma oscillations and the beta/alpha oscillations ratio are potential biomarkers for programming in PD patients after DBS. Instead of relying solely on spike action potential signals from single neurons, LFP biomarkers can provide the appropriate depth for electrode placement.

An atypical 3-ketoacyl ACP synthase III required for acyl homoserine lactone synthesis in Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae B728a

The last step of the initiation phase of fatty acid biosynthesis in most bacteria is catalyzed by the 3-ketoacyl-acyl carrier protein (ACP) synthase III (FabH). Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae strain B728a encodes two FabH homologs, Psyr_3467 and Psyr_3830, which we designated PssFabH1 and PssFabH2, respectively. Here, we explored the roles of these two 3-ketoacyl-ACP synthase (KAS) III proteins. We found that PssFabH1 is similar to the Escherichia coli FabH in using acetyl-acetyl-coenzyme A (CoA ) as a substrate in vitro, whereas PssFabH2 uses acyl-CoAs (C4-C10) or acyl-ACPs (C6-C10). Mutant analysis showed that neither KAS III protein is essential for the de novo fatty acid synthesis and cell growth. Loss of PssFabH1 reduced the production of an acyl homoserine lactone (AHL) quorum-sensing signal, and this production was partially restored by overexpressing FabH homologs from other bacteria. AHL production was also restored by inhibiting fatty acid elongation and providing exogenous butyric acid. Deletion of PssFabH1 supports the redirection of acyl-ACP toward biosurfactant synthesis, which in turn enhances swarming motility. Our study revealed that PssFabH1 is an atypical KAS III protein that represents a new KAS III clade that functions in providing a critical fatty acid precursor, butyryl-ACP, for AHL synthesis.IMPORTANCEAcyl homoserine lactones (AHLs) are important quorum-sensing compounds in Gram-negative bacteria. Although their formation requires acylated acyl carrier proteins (ACPs), how the acylated intermediate is shunted from cellular fatty acid synthesis to AHL synthesis is not known. Here, we provide in vivo evidence that Pseudomonas syringae strain B728a uses the enzyme PssFabH1 to provide the critical fatty acid precursor butyryl-ACP for AHL synthesis. Loss of PssFabH1 reduces the diversion of butyryl-ACP to AHL, enabling the accumulation of acyl-ACP for synthesis of biosurfactants that contribute to bacterial swarming motility. We report that PssFabH1 and PssFabH2 each encode a 3-ketoacyl-acyl carrier protein synthase (KAS) III in P. syringae B728a. Whereas PssFabH2 is able to function in redirecting intermediates from β-oxidation to fatty acid synthesis, PssFabH1 is an atypical KAS III protein that represents a new KAS III clade based on its sequence, non-involvement in cell growth, and novel role in AHL synthesis.

Uniting Synergistic Effect of Single-Ni Site and Electric Field of B- Bridged-N for Boosted Electrocatalytic Nitrate Reduction to Ammonia

Electrochemical conversion of nitrate, a prevalent water pollutant, to ammonia (NH3 ) is a delocalized and green path for NH3 production. Despite the existence of different nitrate reduction pathways, selectively directing the reaction pathway on the road to NH3 is now hindered by the absence of efficient catalysts. Single-atom catalysts (SACs) are extensively investigated in a wide range of catalytic processes. However, their application in electrocatalytic nitrate reduction reaction (NO3 - RR) to NH3 is infrequent, mostly due to their pronounced inclination toward hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Here, Ni single atoms on the electrochemically active carrier boron, nitrogen doped-graphene (BNG) matrix to modulate the atomic coordination structure through a boron-spanning strategy to enhance the performance of NO3 - RR is designed. Density functional theory (DFT) study proposes that BNG supports with ionic characteristics, offer a surplus electric field effect as compared to N-doped graphene, which can ease the nitrate adsorption. Consistent with the theoretical studies, the as-obtained NiSA@BNG shows higher catalytic activity with a maximal NH3 yield rate of 168 µg h-1  cm-2 along with Faradaic efficiency of 95% and promising electrochemical stability. This study reveals novel ways to rationally fabricate SACs' atomic coordination structure with tunable electronic properties to enhance electrocatalytic performance.

Effect of lipopolysaccharide on TAK1-mediated hepatocyte PANoptosis through Toll-like receptor 4 during acute liver failure

BACKGROUND

Intestinal endotoxemia (IETM) is an important pathogenic mechanism of acute liver failure (ALF), and TAK1-mediated PANoptosis is a novel cell death mode. This study investigated whether IETM can induce hepatocyte PANoptosis during ALF.

METHOD

PANoptosis cell and mouse models were generated, and lentiviruses (LVs), adeno-associated viral vectors (AVVs), and small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) were subsequently used to overexpress or knock down TLR and TAK1. Then, the levels of hepatocyte injury, TLR4, TAK1 and PANoptosis were detected via an enzyme-labeling instrument, tissue staining, RT-PCR, western blotting, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry.

RESULTS

The BioGRID database search revealed that TAK1 might interact with TLR4. According to the in vivo experiments, compared with those in ALF mice, liver tissue damage, hepatocyte mortality and PANoptosis in mice in the AAV-TAK1 group were significantly lower, and liver function was significantly improved. According to the in vitro experiments, after promoting the expression of TLR4 in the model group, the degree of cell damage, TLR4 expression and PANoptosis further increased, while the level of TAK1 further decreased. The opposite result was obtained when TLR4 expression was inhibited. The increase in TAK1 expression in the model group reduced the degree of cell damage and PANoptosis, but the level of TLR4 was not significantly changed. In the model group of cells that exhibited TAK1 expression, further promotion of TLR4 expression inhibited the protective effect of TAK1 on cells. In the model group of cells after TAK1 expression was promoted, if the expression of TLR4 was further promoted, the protective effect of TAK1 on cells was inhibited.

CONCLUSION

IETM inhibited the expression of TAK1 by binding to TLR4 molecules and promoting hepatocyte PANoptosis during ALF. Promoting TAK1 expression effectively relieved lipopolysaccharide-induced hepatocyte PANoptosis.

Femtosecond Collisional Dissipation of Vibrating D_{2}^{+} in Helium Nanodroplets

We explored the collision-induced vibrational decoherence of singly ionized D_{2} molecules inside a helium nanodroplet. By using the pump-probe reaction microscopy with few-cycle laser pulses, we captured in real time the collision-induced ultrafast dissipation of vibrational nuclear wave packet dynamics of D_{2}^{+} ion embedded in the droplet. Because of the strong coupling of excited molecular cations with the surrounding solvent, the vibrational coherence of D_{2}^{+} in the droplet interior only lasts for a few vibrational periods and completely collapses within 140 fs. The observed ultrafast coherence loss is distinct from that of isolated D_{2}^{+} in the gas phase, where the vibrational coherence persists for a long time with periodic quantum revivals. Our findings underscore the crucial role of ultrafast collisional dissipation in shaping the molecular decoherence and solvation dynamics during solution chemical reactions, particularly when the solute molecules are predominantly in ionic states.

GTF2H4 regulates partial EndMT via NF-κB activation through NCOA3 phosphorylation in ischemic diseases

Partial endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is an intermediate phenotype observed in endothelial cells (ECs) undergoing a transition toward a mesenchymal state to support neovascularization during (patho)physiological angiogenesis. Here, we investigated the occurrence of partial EndMT in ECs under hypoxic/ischemic conditions and identified general transcription factor IIH subunit 4 (GTF2H4) as a positive regulator of this process. In addition, we discovered that GTF2H4 collaborates with its target protein excision repair cross-complementation group 3 (ERCC3) to co-regulate partial EndMT. Furthermore, by using phosphorylation proteomics and site-directed mutagenesis, we demonstrated that GTF2H4 was involved in the phosphorylation of receptor coactivator 3 (NCOA3) at serine 1330, which promoted the interaction between NCOA3 and p65, resulting in the transcriptional activation of NF-κB and the NF-κB/Snail signaling axis during partial EndMT. In vivo experiments confirmed that GTF2H4 significantly promoted partial EndMT and angiogenesis after ischemic injury. Collectively, our findings reveal that targeting GTF2H4 is promising for tissue repair and offers potential opportunities for treating hypoxic/ischemic diseases.

Novel allelic variations in Tannin1 and Tannin2 contribute to tannin absence in sorghum

Sorghum is an important food crop commonly used for brewing, feed, and bioenergy. Certain genotypes of sorghum contain high concentrations of condensed tannins in seeds, which are beneficial, such as protecting grains from herbivore bird pests, but also impair grain quality and digestibility. Previously, we identified Tannin1 and Tannin2, each with three recessive causal alleles, regulate tannin absence in sorghum. In this study, via characterizing 421 sorghum accessions, we further identified three novel recessive alleles from these two genes. The tan1-d allele contains a 12-bp deletion at position 659 nt and the tan1-e allele contains a 10-bp deletion at position 771 nt in Tannin1. The tan2-d allele contains a C-to-T transition, which results in a premature stop codon before the bHLH domain in Tannin2, and was predominantly selected in China. We further developed KASP assays targeting these identified recessive alleles to efficiently genotype large populations. These studies provide new insights in sorghum domestication and convenient tools for breeding programs.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11032-024-01463-y.

The severity assessment of Parkinson's disease based on plasma inflammatory factors and third ventricle width by transcranial sonography

BACKGROUND

Predicting Parkinson's disease (PD) can provide patients with targeted therapies. However, disease severity can be roughly evaluated in clinical practice based on the patient's symptoms and signs.

OBJECTIVE

The current study attempted to explore the factors linked with PD severity and construct a predictive model.

METHOD

The PD patients and healthy controls were recruited from our study center while recording their basic demographic information. The serum inflammatory markers levels, such as Cystatin C (Cys C), C-reactive protein (CRP), RANTES (regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted), Interleukin-10 (IL-10), and Interleukin-6 (IL-6) were determined for all the participants. PD patients were categorized into early and mid-advanced groups based on the Hoehn and Yahr (H-Y) scale and evaluated using PD-related scales. LASSO logistic regression analysis (Model C) helped select variables based on clinical scale evaluations, serum inflammatory factor levels, and transcranial sonography measurements. The optimal harmonious model coefficient λ was determined via 10-fold cross-validation. Moreover, Model C was compared with multivariate (Model A) and stepwise (Model B) logistic regression. The area under the curve (AUC) of a receiver operator characteristic (ROC), brier score, calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA) helped determine the discrimination and calibration of the predictive model, followed by configuring a forest plot and column chart.

RESULTS

The study included 113 healthy individuals and 102 PD patients, with 26 early and 76 mid-advanced patients. Univariate analysis of variance screened out statistically significant differences among inflammatory markers Cys C and RANTES. The average Cys C level in the mid-advanced stage was significantly higher than in the early stage (p < 0.001) but not for RANTES (p = 0.740). The LASSO logistic regression model (λ.1se = 0.061) associated with UPDRS-I, UPDRS-II, UPDRS-III, HAMA, PDQ-39, and Cys C as the included independent variables revealed that the Model C discrimination and calibration (AUC = 0.968, Brier = 0.049) were superior to Model A (AUC = 0.926, Brier = 0.079) and Model B (AUC = 0.929, Brier = 0.071) models.

CONCLUSION

The study results show multiple factors are linked with PD assessment. Moreover, the inflammatory marker Cys C and transcranial sonography measurement could objectively predict PD symptom severity, helping doctors monitor PD evolution in patients while targeting interventions.

ACETYL-COA PRODUCTION BY OCTANOIC ACID ALLEVIATES ACUTE COMPARTMENT SYNDROME-INDUCED SKELETAL MUSCLE INJURY THROUGH REGULATING MITOPHAGY

ABSTRACT

Background: Treatment of acute compartment syndrome (ACS)-induced skeletal muscle injury remains a challenge. Previous studies have shown that octanoic acid is a promising treatment for ACS owing to its potential ability to regulate metabolic/epigenetic pathways in ischemic injury. The present study was designed to investigate the efficacy and underlying mechanism of octanoic acid in ACS-induced skeletal muscle injury. Methods: In this study, we established a saline infusion ACS rat model. Subsequently, we assessed the protective effects of sodium octanoate (NaO, sodium salt of octanoic acid) on ACS-induced skeletal muscle injury. Afterward, the level of acetyl-coenzyme A and histone acetylation in the skeletal muscle tissue were quantified. Moreover, we investigated the activation of the AMP-activated protein kinas pathway and the occurrence of mitophagy in the skeletal muscle tissue. Lastly, we scrutinized the expression of proteins associated with mitochondrial dynamics in the skeletal muscle tissue. Results: The administration of NaO attenuated muscle inflammation, alleviating oxidative stress and muscle edema. Moreover, NaO treatment enhanced muscle blood perfusion, leading to the inhibition of apoptosis-related skeletal muscle cell death after ACS. In addition, NaO demonstrated the ability to halt skeletal muscle fibrosis and enhance the functional recovery of muscle post-ACS. Further analysis indicates that NaO treatment increases the acetyl-CoA level in muscle and the process of histone acetylation by acetyl-CoA. Lastly, we found NaO treatment exerts a stimulatory impact on the activation of the AMPK pathway, thus promoting mitophagy and improving mitochondrial dynamics. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that octanoic acid may ameliorate skeletal muscle injury induced by ACS. Its protective effects may be attributed to the promotion of acetyl-CoA synthesis and histone acetylation within the muscular tissue, as well as its activation of the AMPK-related mitophagy pathway.

The promise of nanofluids: A bibliometric journey through advanced heat transfer fluids in heat exchanger tubes

Thermal management is a critical challenge in advanced systems such as electric vehicles (EVs), electronic components, and photoelectric modules. Thermal alleviation is carried out through the cooling systems in which the coolant and the heat exchangers are the key components. The study examines recent literature on nanofluids and heat exchanger tubes along with state-of-the-art concepts being tested for heat transfer intensification. The performance of nanofluids in several common heat transfer tubes' geometries/configurations and the effectiveness of novel heat transfer augmentation mechanisms are presented. Promising results have been reported, showing improved heat transfer parameters with the use of nanofluids and intensification mechanisms like turbulators, fins, grooves, and variations in temperature and flow velocity. These mechanisms enhance dispersion stability, achieve a more uniform temperature distribution, and reduce the boundary layer thickness, resulting in lower tube wall temperatures. Moreover, introducing flow pulsations and magnetic effects further enhances particle mobility and heat exchange. However, there are limitations, such as increased frictional losses and pressure drop due to magnetic effects. The combination of nanofluids, novel heat exchanger tube geometries, and turbulators holds great promise for highly efficient cooling systems in the future. The study also presents a bibliometric analysis that offers valuable insights into the impact and visibility of research in the integration of nanofluids into heat transfer systems. These insights aid in identifying emerging trends and advancing the field towards more efficient and compact systems, paving the way for future advancements.

Design and motion control of exoskeleton robot for paralyzed lower limb rehabilitation

Introduction

Patients suffering from limb movement disorders require more complete rehabilitation treatment, and there is a huge demand for rehabilitation exoskeleton robots. Flexible and reliable motion control of exoskeleton robots is very important for patient rehabilitation.

Methods

This paper proposes a novel exoskeleton robotic system for lower limb rehabilitation. The designed lower limb rehabilitation exoskeleton robot mechanism is mainly composed of the hip joint mechanism, the knee joint mechanism and the ankle joint mechanism. The forces and motion of the exoskeleton robot were analyzed in detail to determine its design parameters. The robot control system was developed to implement closed-loop position control and trajectory planning control of each joint mechanism.

Results

Multiple experiments and tests were carried out to verify robot's performance and practicality. In the robot angular response experiments, the joint mechanism could quickly adjust to different desired angles, including 15°, 30°, 45°, and 60°. In the trajectory tracking experiments, the exoskeleton robot could complete tracking movements of typical actions such as walking, standing up, sitting down, go upstairs and go downstairs, with a maximum tracking error of ±5°. Robotic wearing tests on normal people were performed to verify the assistive effects of the lower limb rehabilitation exoskeleton at different stages.

Discussion

The experimental results indicated that the exoskeleton robot has excellent reliability and practicality. The application of this exoskeleton robotic system will help paralyzed patients perform some daily movements and sports.

Targeting Nanoplatform for Atherosclerosis Inhibition and Degradation via a Dual-Track Reverse Cholesterol Transport Strategy

As a main cause of serious cardiovascular diseases, atherosclerosis is characterized by deposited lipid and cholesterol crystals (CCs), which is considered as a great challenge to the current treatments. In this study, a dual-track reverse cholesterol transport strategy is used to overcome the cumulative CCs in the atherosclerotic lesions via a targeting nanoplatform named as LPLCH. Endowed with the active targeting ability to the plaques, the nanoparticles can be efficiently internalized and achieve a pH-triggered charge conversion for the escape from lysosomes. During this procedure, the liver X receptor (LXR) agonists loaded in nanoparticles are replaced by the deposited lysosomal CCs, leading to a LXR mediated up-regulation of ATP-binding cassette transporte ABCA1/G1 with the local CCs carrying at the same time. Thus, the cumulative CCs are removed in a dual-track way of ABCA1/G1 mediated efflux and nanoparticle-based carrying. The in vivo investigations indicate that LPLCH exhibits a favorable inhibition on the plaque progression and a further reversal of formed lesions when under a healthy diet. And the RNA-sequencing suggests that the cholesterol transport also synergistically activates the anti-inflammation effect. The dual-track reverse cholesterol transport strategy performed by LPLCH delivers an exciting candidate for the effective inhibition and degradation of atherosclerosis.

Levodopa improved different motor symptoms in patients with Parkinson's disease by reducing the functional connectivity of specific thalamic subregions

BACKGROUND

The thalamus is an important relay station for the motor circuit of human. Levodopa can reverse the clinical manifestations by modulating the function of motor circuits, but its detailed mechanisms are still not fully understood. We aimed to explore (1) the mechanism by which levodopa modulates the functional connectivity (FC) in the subregions of the thalamus; (2) the relationship between the changed FC and the improvement of motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients.

METHODS

Resting-state functional MRI was used to scan 36 PD patients and 37 healthy controls. The FC between the subregions in the thalamus and the whole brain was measured and compared under different medication states of PD patients. The correlation between the improvement of motor symptoms and changes in FC in the thalamus subregions was examined.

RESULTS

The PD on state exhibited decreased FC between the right pre-motor thalamus and the right postcentral gyrus, as well as the right lateral pre-frontal thalamus and the right postcentral gyrus. These decreases were positively correlated with the improvement of resting tremor. The PD on state also exhibited decreased FC between the left lateral pre-frontal thalamus and right paracentral lobule, which was positively correlated with the improvement of bradykinesia.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that levodopa treats PD by decreasing the FC between the thalamus subregions and pre/post-central cortex. Our results provide a basis for further exploration of the functional activity of thalamic subregions and offer new insights into the precision treatment in PD patients.

Effects of coronary artery disease in patients with permanent left bundle branch area pacing: A retrospective study

Aims

Myocardial ischemia can affect traditional right ventricular (RV) pacing parameters, but it is unclear whether coronary artery disease (CAD) impact the pacing parameters and electrophysiological characteristics of left bundle branch area pacing (LBBaP) as a physiological pacing representative.

Methods

Patients who underwent coronary angiography (CAG) after/before the LBBaP procedure and underwent percutaneous coronary intervention after LBBaP procedure were divided into CAD group and Non-CAD group according to visual CAG. Pacing parameters and electrophysiological characteristics were recorded at LBBaP implantation. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was implemented to evaluate the association between CAD and higher capture threshold. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to verify result stability.

Results

A total of 176 patients met inclusion criteria (115 Non-CAD patients and 61 CAD patients) with a mean age of 71.1 ± 9.0 years. Compared with the Non-CAD patients, CAD patients had the higher capture threshold (0.67 ± 0.22 V vs. 0.82 ± 0.28 V, P < 0.001) and lower R-wave amplitude (12.5 ± 4.8 mV vs. 10.1 ± 2.7 mV, P = 0.001). Moreover, CAD was independently associated with higher capture threshold (adjusted Odds ratio (OR) 3.418, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.621-7.206, P = 0.001), which was further validated through sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion

Patients without CAD might have safer pacing parameters in the LBBaP procedure. Besides, CAD might be the risk factor of capture threshold increase during permanent LBBaP implantation.

Interactions of ferulic acid and ferulic acid methyl ester with endogenous proteins: Determination using the multi-methods

Ferulic acid (FA) and ferulic acid methyl ester (FAM) are important phenolic compounds in Baijiu. In this study, the interaction of FA and FAM with human serum albumin (HSA) and lysozyme (LZM) was investigated using multispectral methods and molecular dynamics simulation. FA and FAM could interact with HSA and LZM, changing the conformation and hydrophilicity of the protein. The quenching mechanisms of FA-HSA, FA-LZM, FAM-HSA, and FAM-LZM were all static-quenching. In the FA-HSA, FAM-HSA, and FA-LZM systems, the interaction forces were mainly hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonding. In the FAM-LZM system, the interaction forces were mainly hydrophobic interactions, hydrogen bonding, and van der Waals force. Common metal ions such as K+, Ca2+, Cu2+, Mg2+, and Mn2+ could affect the binding ability of FA and FAM to HSA and LZM. Moreover, FA and FAM could increase the stability of HSA and LZM, and the protein bound to FA/FAM was more stable than the free protein. FA and FAM had varying degrees of impact on the physiological activities of HSA and LZM. This study provides relevant information on the interactions and metabolic mechanisms of FA and its derivatives with endogenous proteins.

Effects of DeSUMOylated Spastin on AMPA Receptor Surface Delivery and Synaptic Function Are Enhanced by Phosphorylating at Ser210

Surface trafficking of AMPA receptors (AMPARs) is one of the important mechanisms mediating synaptic plasticity which is essential for cognitive functions such as learning and memory. Spastin, as a novel binding partner for the AMPAR, has been reported to regulate AMPAR surface expression and synaptic function. Additionally, Spastin undergoes two posttranslational modifications, phosphorylation and SUMOylation, both of which are crucial for synaptic function. However, gaps exist in our knowledge of how Spastin phosphorylation cross-talks with its SUMOylation in the regulation of AMPAR surface expression and synaptic function. Here, we reported that deSUMOylation of Spastin at Lys427 increased the surface level of AMPAR GluA2 subunit, the amplitude and frequency of miniature excitatory synaptic currents (mEPSC), and facilitated the morphological maturation of dendritic spines in cultured hippocampal neurons. Further studies demonstrated that Spastin phosphorylation at Ser210 further increased the enhancement of GluA2 surface expression and synaptic function by deSUMOylated Spastin, while dephosphorylation had the opposite effect. Simultaneously, deSUMOylation at Lys427 significantly increased the promoting effect of Spastin phosphorylation on synaptic function. In conclusion, our study suggests that cooperative interactions between phosphorylated and deSUMOylated Spastin are novel pathways to enhance synaptic function.

Wave-Packet Surface Propagation for Light-Induced Molecular Dynamics

Recent advances in laser technology have enabled tremendous progress in light-induced molecular reactions, at the heart of which the breaking and formation of chemical bonds are located. Such progress has been greatly facilitated by the development of an accurate quantum-mechanical simulation method, which, however, does not necessarily accompany clear dynamical scenarios and is rather computationally heavy. Here, we develop a wave-packet surface propagation (WASP) approach to describe the molecular bond-breaking dynamics from a hybrid quantum-classical perspective. Via the introduction of quantum elements including state transitions and phase accumulations to the Newtonian propagation of the nuclear wave packet, the WASP approach naturally comes with intuitive physical scenarios and accuracies. It is carefully benchmarked with the H_{2}^{+} molecule and is shown to be capable of precisely reproducing experimental observations. The WASP method is promising for the intuitive visualization of light-induced molecular dynamics and is straightforward extensible towards complex molecules.

Probing and Steering Attosecond Electron Motion Using Tailored Ultrafast Laser Fields

An ultrafast intense laser field is one of the most important tools to observe and manipulate electronic and nuclear dynamics with subcycle precision in highly nonlinear light-matter interactions, which provides access to attosecond chemistry and physics. In this review, we briefly summarize the protocol of attosecond chronoscopy and its application in probing the attosecond photoemission dynamics from atoms and molecules. We also review the control schemes of attosecond electron motion in atoms and molecules as well as molecular bond formation and cleavage with the assistance of tailored femtosecond laser fields.

Effect of deep brain stimulation compared with drug therapy alone on the progression of Parkinson's disease

Background

Parkinson's disease (PD) symptoms deteriorate with disease progression. Although deep brain stimulation (DBS) can effectively improve the motor signs of PD patients, it is not yet known whether DBS surgery, which is an invasive treatment modality, may change the progression of PD.

Objective

The aim of this work was to compare the effect of DBS with that of drug treatment on the progression of PD.

Methods

A total of 77 patients with PD with the Hoehn and Yahr scale (HY) stage of 2.5 or 3 were included, and were divided into 34 in the drug therapy alone group (Drug-G) and 43 in the DBS therapy group (DBS-G). All patients were subjected to a follow-up of 2 years, and disease severity was assessed by the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale part III (UPDRS-III), the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA), the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA), and the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) scores. In addition, the quality of life of patients and the burden on their family were assessed by the 39-item PD questionnaire (PDQ-39) scores, daily levodopa equivalent dose (LED), patient's annual treatment-related costs, and the Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale (ZCBS) score. The changes in relevant scale scores between the two groups were compared at each follow-up stage.

Results

The UPDRS-III score of the patients in the "off" state increased from year to year in both groups, and the degree of increase of this score was greater in the DBS-G than in the Drug-G group. The MOCA score in both groups began to decline in the 2nd year of follow-up, and the decline was greater in the Drug-G than in the DBS-G group. DBS treatment did not affect patients' psychiatric disorders. The PDQ39, LED, costs, and ZCBS were negatively correlated with the follow-up time in patients in the DBS-G group, and positively correlated with the follow-up time in patients in the Drug-G.

Conclusion

PD is progressive regardless of treatment. The findings from this follow-up study suggest that the disease progression of patients in DBS-G may be slightly faster compared to the drug-G, but the advantages of DBS are also evident. Indeed, DBS better improves patient's motor signs and quality of life and reduces the family burden. In addition, DBS has less impact on patients in terms of cognitive and mental effects.

Associations between NIHSS sub-item scores and prognosis and intracranial hemorrhage after endovascular therapy for acute anterior circulation ischemic stroke

Purpose

The relationship between sub-item scores on the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores and prognosis and intracranial hemorrhage in patients with acute ischemic stroke undergoing endovascular treatment (EVT) has been insufficiently studied. The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between NIHSS sub-item scores, prognosis, and intracranial hemorrhage.

Methods

This study included patients with acute anterior circulation ischemic stroke undergoing EVT between February 2019 and April 2022. The outcomes included functional independence, defined as a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score ≤ 2 at 3 months after EVT, intracranial hemorrhage within 24 h after EVT, and mortality within 3 months. A multivariate regression analysis was performed, including NIHSS sub-item scores and other adjusted variables.

Results

A total of 568 patients were enrolled. Of the 568 patients, 239 (45%) achieved functional independence at 3 months after EVT. The median age in this group was 63 years (IQR 52-69) and 176 (73.6%) were male patients. Intracranial hemorrhage within 24 h after EVT occurred in 170 (30%) patients. The median age in this group was 65 years (IQR 56-71) and 105 (61.8%) were male patients. In a multivariate analysis adjusted for age, gender, and factors with a value of p of <0.05, the NIHSS limb movement sub-item score was strongly associated with prognosis at 3 months (OR 0.833, 95% CI 0.758-0.915) and intracranial hemorrhage within 24 h after EVT (OR 1.161, 95% CI 1.037-1.300).

Conclusion

Higher limb movement sub-item scores on the NIHSS were independently associated with a poorer prognosis at 3 months and a higher rate of intracranial hemorrhage within 24 h after EVT among patients with acute anterior circulation ischemic stroke.

Emission characteristics of intermediate volatility organic compounds from a Chinese gasoline engine under varied operating conditions: Influence of fuel, velocity, torque, rotational speed, and after-treatment device

Improved measurement of new pollutants, particularly intermediate volatility organic compounds (IVOCs), is urgently needed due to the lack of emission data under various operating conditions and potential fuel switching for gasoline engines. This study focused on examining the emission characteristics of IVOCs and the formation of secondary organic aerosols (SOA) in a commercial gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine, considering different fuels and operating conditions. The key findings are as follows: (1) The emission factor (EF) of IVOCs ranged from 2.0 to 357.8 mg kg-fuel-1, with a median value of 87.9 mg kg-fuel-1. (2) IVOCs emission characteristics were influenced by the fuel type and engine operating conditions. The addition of ethanol resulted in a significant decrease in IVOCs emissions, while lower velocities and torques led to higher IVOCs emissions. (3) Ethanol-blended fuel scenarios (E10, E25) and CGPF (Pd/Rh catalytically coated gasoline particle filter)-equipped scenarios exhibited high proportions of oxygen-containing compounds like aliphatic alcohols, ethers, and carboxylic acids. (4) IVOCs exhibited a high potential for the formation of SOA, underscoring the importance of controlling IVOCs in future strategies to mitigate particulate matter pollution in China. These findings highlight the significance of smooth traffic flow and advancements in fuel types, engine technologies, and after-treatment designs to effectively control IVOC emissions and contribute to the realization of a carbon-neutral society.

In Vivo Visualization and Quantification of Optic Disc Microvasculature for Assessing Renal Dysfunction

Objective

To assess the relationship between optic disc microvasculature and renal function in subjects with diabetes mellitus without diabetic retinopathy (DR).

Design

Prospective, cross-sectional study.

Participants

A total 1629 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus without DR were recruited from the community of Guangzhou, China.

Methods

All subjects underwent 6 mm × 6 mm OCT angiography (OCTA) centered on the optic nerve head. Four state-of-the-art microcirculation parameters, including peripapillary vessel density (PVD) in the radial peripapillary capillaries (RPC), superficial capillary plexus, deep capillary plexus (DCP), and a choriocapillaris flow void density percentage (CC FVD%) were assessed via swept-source OCTA.

Primary Outcomes

Renal function was assessed by levels of microalbuminuria (MAU) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).

Results

Compared with non-chronic kidney disease (CKD) participants, PVD was significantly lower in subjects in the CKD group and worsened as eGFR declined. After adjustment for covariates, higher eGFR was significantly associated with higher PVD in the RPC (β = 0.01; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.01-0.02; P < 0.001), in the superficial capillary plexus (β = 0.010; 95% CI, 0.002-0.019; P = 0.020), in the DCP (β = 0.02; 95% CI, 0.01-0.03; P < 0.001), and lower CC FVD% (β = -0.01; 95% CI, -0.03 to -0.001; P = 0.040) in the entire images. After they were fully adjusted, the parameters in the inner ring of the RPC, DCP, and CC FVD% were significantly associated with MAU (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Decrease in retinal and choroidal microcirculation in the optic nerve head was independently associated with renal dysfunction. Further longitudinal studies are needed to clarify the peripapillary vessel changes during CKD progression.

Financial Disclosures

The author(s) have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article.

Association of red blood cell distribution width and hemoglobin-to-RDW ratio with contrast-associated acute kidney injury in patients undergoing coronary angiography: A retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Inflammation contributes to poor prognosis in cardiovascular diseases. A novel biomarker for systemic inflammation that has garnered attention is the red blood cell distribution width (RDW). This study is designed to explore potential associations between RDW and hemoglobin-to-RDW ratio (HRR) with contrast-associated acute kidney injury (CA-AKI).

METHODS

This study retrospectively analyzed 4054 patients undergoing coronary angiography (CAG). Linear regression models were employed to assess the relationships between RDW or HRR and the elevation of serum creatinine (Scr). The associations between RDW or HRR and CA-AKI were explored using restricted cubic spline and log-binomial regression analyses taking into account specific cutoff values and quintiles. Exploratory analyses were also conducted to further investigate these associations.

RESULTS

Among enrolled patients, the average age was 66.9 years and 34.3% were female. Notably, patients who developed CA-AKI tended to have higher RDW and lower HRR. Multivariable linear regression models demonstrated that RDW exhibited a positive association with Scr elevation (β = 2.496, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.784-3.208), while HRR displayed a negative association (β = -3.559, 95% CI = -4.243 to -2.875). Multivariable log-binomial regression models confirmed that both high RDW (RDW ≥ 13.8%) and low HRR (HRR < 8.9) were significantly associated with a higher risk of CA-AKI (RDW [≥13.8% vs. <13.8%]: relative risk [RR] = 1.540, 95% CI = 1.345-1.762; HRR [<8.9 vs. ≥8.9]: RR = 1.822, 95% CI = 1.584-2.096). Exploratory analysis determined that such associations still existed regardless of age, gender, estimated glomerular filtration rate, or anemia.

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated preoperative RDW and decreased HRR were significantly associated with CA-AKI in patients undergoing CAG.

The recent advances in cell delivery approaches, biochemical and engineering procedures of cell therapy applied to coronary heart disease

Cell therapy is an important topic in the field of regeneration medicine that is gaining attention within the scientific community. However, its potential for treatment in coronary heart disease (CHD) has yet to be established. Several various strategies, types of cells, routes of distribution, and supporting procedures have been tried and refined to trigger heart rejuvenation in CHD. However, only a few of them result in a real considerable promise for clinical usage. In this review, we give an update on techniques and clinical studies of cell treatment as used to cure CHD that are now ongoing or have been completed in the previous five years. We also highlight the emerging efficacy of stem cell treatment for CHD. We specifically examine and comment on current breakthroughs in cell treatment applied to CHD, including the most effective types of cells, transport modalities, engineering, and biochemical approaches used in this context. We believe the current review will be helpful for the researcher to distill this information and design future studies to overcome the challenges faced by this revolutionary approach for CHD.

Association between fasting stress hyperglycemia ratio and contrast-induced acute kidney injury in coronary angiography patients: a cross-sectional study

Aims

Stress hyperglycemia ratio (SHR), an emerging indicator of critical illness, exhibits a significant association with adverse cardiovascular outcomes. The primary aim of this research endeavor is to evaluate the association between fasting SHR and contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI).

Methods

This cross-sectional study comprised 3,137 patients who underwent coronary angiography (CAG) or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The calculation of fasting SHR involved dividing the admission fasting blood glucose by the estimated mean glucose obtained from glycosylated hemoglobin. CI-AKI was assessed based on elevated serum creatinine (Scr) levels. To investigate the relationship between fasting SHR and the proportion of SCr elevation, piecewise linear regression analysis was conducted. Modified Poisson's regression analysis was implemented to evaluate the correlation between fasting SHR and CI-AKI. Subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis were conducted to explore result stability.

Results

Among the total population, 482 (15.4%) patients experienced CI-AKI. Piecewise linear regression analysis revealed significant associations between the proportion of SCr elevation and fasting SHR on both sides (≤ 0.8 and > 0.8) [β = -12.651, 95% CI (-23.281 to -2.022), P = 0.020; β = 8.274, 95% CI (4.176 to 12.372), P < 0.001]. The Modified Poisson's regression analysis demonstrated a statistically significant correlation between both the lowest and highest levels of fasting SHR and an increased incidence of CI-AKI [(SHR < 0.7 vs. 0.7 ≤ SHR < 0.9) β = 1.828, 95% CI (1.345 to 2.486), P < 0.001; (SHR ≥ 1.3 vs. 0.7 ≤ SHR < 0.9) β = 2.896, 95% CI (2.087 to 4.019), P < 0.001], which was further validated through subgroup and sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion

In populations undergoing CAG or PCI, both lowest and highest levels of fasting SHR were significantly associated with an increased occurrence of CI-AKI.

Surface Hydrogen Bond-Induced Oxygen Vacancies of TiO2 for Two-Electron Molecular Oxygen Activation and Efficient NO Oxidation

Defect engineering can provide a feasible approach to achieving ambient molecular oxygen activation. However, conventional surface defects (e.g., oxygen vacancies, OVs), featured with the coordinatively unsaturated metal sites, often favor the reduction of O2 to •O2- rather than O22- via two-electron transfer, hindering the efficient pollutant removal with high electron utilization. Herein, we demonstrate that this bottleneck can be well discharged by modulating the electronic structure of OVs via phosphorization. As a proof of concept, TiO2 nanoparticles are adopted as a model material for NaH2PO2 (HP) modification, in which HP induces the formation of OVs via weakening the Ti-O bonds through the hydrogen bond interactions. Additionally, the formed Ti-O-P covalent bond refines the electronic structure of OVs, which enables rapid electron transfer for two-electron molecular oxygen activation. As exemplified by NO oxidation, HP-modified TiO2 with abundant OVs achieved complete NO removal with high selectivity for benign nitrate, superior to that of pristine TiO2. This study highlights a promising approach to regulate the O2 activation via an electronic structure modulation and provides fresh insights into the rational design of a photocatalyst for environmental remediation.

CT Radiomics-Based Nomogram for Predicting the Lateral Neck Lymph Node Metastasis in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma: A Prospective Multicenter Study

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES

This study is based on multicenter cohorts and aims to utilize computed tomography (CT) images to construct a radiomics nomogram for predicting the lateral neck lymph node (LNLN) metastasis in the papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) and further explore the biological basis under its prediction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In the multicenter study, 1213 lymph nodes from 409 patients with PTC who underwent CT examinations and received open surgery and lateral neck dissection were included. A prospective test cohort was used in validating the model. Radiomics features were extracted from the CT images of each patient's LNLNs. Selectkbest, maximum relevance and minimum redundancy and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm were used in reducing the dimensionality of radiomics features in the training cohort. Then, a radiomics signature (Rad-score) was calculated as the sum of each feature multiplied by the nonzero coefficient from LASSO. A nomogram was generated using the clinical risk factors of the patients and Rad-score. The nomograms' performance was analyzed in terms of accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, confusion matrix, receiver operating characteristic curves, and areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUCs). The clinical usefulness of the nomogram was evaluated by decision curve analysis. Moreover, three radiologists with different working experiences and nomogram were compared to one another. Whole transcriptomics sequencing was performed in 14 tumor samples; the correlation of biological functions and high and low LNLN samples predicted by the nomogram was further investigated.

RESULTS

A total of 29 radiomics features were used in constructing the Rad-score. Rad-score and clinical risk factors (age, tumor diameter, location and number of suspected tumors) compose the nomogram. The nomogram exhibited good discrimination performance of the nomogram for predicting LNLN metastasis in the training cohort (AUC, 0.866), internal test cohort (0.845), external test cohort (0.725), and prospective test cohort (0.808) and showed diagnostic capability comparable to senior radiologists, significantly outperforming junior radiologists (p < 0.05). Functional enrichment analysis suggested that the nomogram can reflect the ribosome-related structures of cytoplasmic translation in patients with PTC.

CONCLUSION

Our radiomics nomogram provides a noninvasive method that incorporates radiomics features and clinical risk factors for predicting LNLN metastasis in patients with PTC.

AIE-enabled transfection-free identification and isolation of viable cell subpopulations differing in the level of autophagy

ABBREVIATIONS

3-MA, 3-methyladenine; AIE, aggregation-induced emission; AIEgens, aggregation-induced emission luminogens; ATG5, autophagy related 5; BMDM, bone marrow-derived macrophage; CQ, chloroquine; DiD, 1,1'-dioctadecyl-3,3,3',3'-tetramethylindodicarbocyanine perchlorate; DiO, 3,3'-dioctadecyloxacarbocyanine perchlorate; DMSO, dimethyl sulfoxide; d-THP-1, differentiated THP-1; FACS, fluorescence activated cell sorting; FBS, fetal bovine serum; FCCP, carbonyl cyanide 4-(trifluoromethoxy) phenylhydrazone; GABARAP, GABA type A receptor-associated protein; GFP, green fluorescent protein; HBSS, Hanks' balanced salt solution; HPLC, high-performance liquid chromatography; HRP, horseradish peroxidase; IL1B, interleukin 1 beta; KT, an AIE probe composed of a cell-penetrating peptide and an AIEgen tetraphenyl ethylene; LC3-II, lipidated LC3; LDH, lactate dehydrogenase; LIR, LC3-interacting region; LKR, engineered molecular probe composed of an LC3-interacting peptide, a cell-penetrating peptide and a non-AIE fluorescent molecule rhodamine; LKT, engineered molecular probe composed of an LC3-interacting peptide, a cell-penetrating peptide and an AIEgen tetraphenyl ethylene; LPS, lipopolysaccharide; MAP1LC3/LC3, microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3; MEF, mouse embryonic fibroblast; mRFP, monomeric red fluorescent protein; NHS, N-hydroxysuccinimide; NLRP3, NLR family pyrin domain containing 3; PBS, phosphate-buffered saline; PCC, pearson's correlation coefficient; PL, photoluminescence; PMA, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate; RAP, rapamycin; RIM, restriction of intramolecular motions; s.e.m., standard error of the mean; SPR, surface plasmon resonance; SQSTM1/p62, sequestosome 1; TAX1BP1, Tax1 binding protein 1; TPE, tetraphenylethylene; TPE-yne, 1-(4-ethynylphenyl)-1,2,2-triphenylethene; Tre, trehalose; u-THP-1: undifferentiated THP-1; UV-Vis, ultraviolet visible.

Explainable cross-task adaptive transfer learning for motor imagery EEG classification

Objective. In the field of motor imagery (MI) electroencephalography (EEG)-based brain-computer interfaces, deep transfer learning (TL) has proven to be an effective tool for solving the problem of limited availability in subject-specific data for the training of robust deep learning (DL) models. Although considerable progress has been made in the cross-subject/session and cross-device scenarios, the more challenging problem of cross-task deep TL remains largely unexplored.Approach. We propose a novel explainable cross-task adaptive TL method for MI EEG decoding. Firstly, similarity analysis and data alignment are performed for EEG data of motor execution (ME) and MI tasks. Afterwards, the MI EEG decoding model is obtained via pre-training with extensive ME EEG data and fine-tuning with partial MI EEG data. Finally, expected gradient-based post-hoc explainability analysis is conducted for the visualization of important temporal-spatial features.Main results. Extensive experiments are conducted on one large ME EEG High-Gamma dataset and two large MI EEG datasets (openBMI and GIST). The best average classification accuracy of our method reaches 80.00% and 72.73% for OpenBMI and GIST respectively, which outperforms several state-of-the-art algorithms. In addition, the results of the explainability analysis further validate the correlation between ME and MI EEG data and the effectiveness of ME/MI cross-task adaptation.Significance. This paper confirms that the decoding of MI EEG can be well facilitated by pre-existing ME EEG data, which largely relaxes the constraint of training samples for MI EEG decoding and is important in a practical sense.

Stereodynamical Control of D3+ Formation from the Bimolecular Photoreaction in the D2-D2 Dimer

We report the stereodynamic control of D3+ formation from the laser-induced bimolecular reaction in a weakly bound D2-D2 dimer via impulsive molecular alignment. Using a linearly polarized moderately intense femtosecond pump pulse, the D2 molecules in the dimer were prealigned prior to the bimolecular reaction triggered by a delayed probe pulse. The rotationally excited D2 in the dimer was observed to rotate freely as if it were a monomer. It was demonstrated that the yield of photoreaction product D3+ is increased or decreased when the molecular axis of D2 is parallel or perpendicular to the probe laser polarization, respectively. The underlying physics of this steric effect is the alignment-dependent bond cleavage of D2+ in the dimer induced by a photon-coupled parallel transition.

Hydroxyl-Driven Enhanced Birefringence in Borophosphates

Borophosphates have become promising candidates for ultraviolet or deep-ultraviolet functional crystals. Through high-temperature solution method, four new borophosphates, K2B2P2O9, (NH4)2BP2O7(OH), K2BP2O7(OH), and P21/c-(NH4)2B2P3O11(OH), were acquired successfully. Single crystal X-ray diffraction suggests that K2B2P2O9, (NH4)2BP2O7(OH), and K2BP2O7(OH) belong to the noncentrosymmetric space group, while P21/c-(NH4)2B2P3O11(OH) belongs to the centrosymmetric compound. It is worth mentioning that K2B2P2O9, (NH4)2BP2O7(OH), and K2BP2O7(OH) present the new fundamental building blocks [B2P2O11], [BP2O10H], and [BP2O9(OH)], respectively, as far as we know. Compared with K2B2P2O9, (NH4)2BP2O7(OH), K2BP2O7(OH), and P21/c-(NH4)2B2P3O11(OH) exhibit a larger optical anisotropy, further confirming the positive effect of hydroxyl groups on birefringence. UV-vis-NIR diffuse reflectance spectra display that K2B2P2O9 and (NH4)2BP2O7(OH) have short UV cutoff edges. Meanwhile, theoretical calculations were conducted to comprehend their optical properties and electronic structures.

Comprehensive characterization and expression analysis of enzymatic antioxidant gene families in passion fruit (Passiflora edulis)

Passion fruit, a valuable tropical fruit, faces climate-related growth challenges. Antioxidant enzymes are vital for both stress protection and growth regulation in plants. We first provided systemic analysis of enzymatic antioxidant gene families in passion fruit, identifying 90 members including 11 PeSODs, 45 PeAPXs, 8 PeCATs, 7 PeGPXs, 6 PeMDHARs, 8 PeDHARs, and 5 PeGRs. Gene members in each gene family with same subcellular localization showed closer phylogenetic relationship. Many antioxidant genes exhibited tissue- or developmental stage-specific expression patterns during floral and fruit development, with some widely expressed. Their co-expressed genes were linked to photosynthesis and energy metabolism, suggesting roles in protecting highly proliferating tissues from oxidative damage. Potential genes for enhancing temperature stress resistance were identified. The involvement of diverse regulatory factors including miRNAs, transcription factors, and CREs might contribute to the complex roles of antioxidant genes. This study informs future research on antioxidant genes and passion fruit breeding.

Extracellular vesicles derived from human ESC-MSCs target macrophage and promote anti-inflammation process, angiogenesis, and functional recovery in ACS-induced severe skeletal muscle injury

BACKGROUND

Acute compartment syndrome (ACS) is one of the most common complications of musculoskeletal injury, leading to the necrosis and demise of skeletal muscle cells. Our previous study showed that embryonic stem cells-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ESC-MSCs) are novel therapeutics in ACS treatment. As extracellular vesicles (EVs) are rapidly gaining attention as cell-free therapeutics that have advantages over parental stem cells, the therapeutic potential and mechanisms of EVs from ESC-MSCs on ACS need to be explored.

METHOD

In the present study, we examined the protective effects in the experimental ACS rat model and investigated the role of macrophages in mediating these effects. Next, we used transcriptome sequencing to explore the mechanisms by which ESC-MSC-EVs regulate macrophage polarization. Furthermore, miRNA sequencing was performed on ESC-MSC-EVs to identify miRNA candidates associated with macrophage polarization.

RESULTS

We found that intravenous administration of ESC-MSC-EVs, given at the time of fasciotomy, significantly promotes the anti-inflammation process, angiogenesis, and functional recovery of muscle in ACS. The beneficial effects were associated with ESC-MSC-EVs affecting macrophage polarization by delivering various miRNAs which regulate NF-κB, JAK/STAT, and PI3K/AKT pathways. Our data further illustrate that ESC-MSC-EVs mainly modulate macrophage polarization via the miR-21/PTEN, miR-320a/PTEN, miR-423/NLRP3, miR-100/mTOR, and miR-26a/TLR3 axes.

CONCLUSION

Together, our results demonstrated the beneficial effects of ESC-MSC-EVs in ACS, wherein the miRNAs present in ESC-MSC-EVs regulate the polarization of macrophages.

Electrocatalytic valorization of lignocellulose-derived aromatics at industrial-scale current densities

Electrocatalytic hydrogenation of lignocellulosic bio-oil to value-added chemicals offers an attractive avenue to use the increasing intermittent renewable electricity and biomass-derived feedstocks. However, to date the partial current densities to target products of these reactions are lower than those needed for industrial-scale productivity, which limits its prospects. Here we report a flow-cell system equipped with a Rh diffusion electrode to hydrogenate lignocellulose-derived aromatic monomers, such as furans and lignin monomers, to value-added chemicals. We achieve high faradaic efficiencies up to 64% at industrial-scale current densities of 300-500 mA cm-2, representing high productivities to target products. A screening of electrocatalysts indicates that only by highly-electrolyte-permeable Rh diffusion electrodes are we able to unite current density with faradaic efficiency. We apply in-situ infrared reflection-absorption spectroscopy to investigate the electrode-potential-dependent reaction pathways and intermediates, confirming a wide potential window for efficient electrocatalytic hydrogenation of lignocellulose-derived aromatics to target products.

Cardiac remodeling on echocardiogram is related to contrast-associated acute kidney injury after coronary angiography: a cross-section study

Background

Cardiac dysfunction is a well-established risk factor for contrast-associated acute kidney injury (CA-AKI). Nevertheless, the relationship between cardiac remodeling, as assessed by echocardiography, and CA-AKI remains uncertain.

Method

A total of 3,241 patients undergoing coronary angiography (CAG) with/without percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) were enrolled in this retrospective study. Collected echocardiographic parameters were normalized by body surface area (BSA) and divided according to quartile, including the left ventricular internal end-diastolic diameter index (LVIDDI), left ventricular internal end-systolic diameter index (LVIDSI), and left ventricular mass index (LVMI). Logistic regression analysis was conducted to ascertain the association between structural parameter changes and CA-AKI. Further investigation was performed in different subgroups.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 66.6 years, and 16.3% suffered from CA-AKI. LVIDSI [≥22.9 mm/m2: OR = 1.953, 95%CI (1.459 to 2.615), P < 0.001], LVIDDI [≥33.2 mm/m2: OR = 1.443, 95%CI (1.087 to 1.914), P = 0.011], and LVMI [≥141.0 g/m2: OR = 1.530, 95%CI (1.146 to 2.044), P = 0.004] in quartile were positively associated with CA-AKI risk in general (all P for trend <0.05). These associations were consistent when stratified by age, left ventricular ejection fraction, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and N-terminal brain natriuretic peptide (all P for interaction >0.05). The presence of eccentric hypertrophy [OR = 1.400, 95%CI (1.093 to 1.793), P = 0.008] and the coexistence of hypertrophy and dilation [OR = 1.397, 95%CI (1.091 to 1.789), P = 0.008] carried a higher CA-AKI risk.

Conclusion

The presence of cardiac remodeling, assessed by echocardiography, is associated with a higher risk of CA-AKI.

[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.

Glasgow prognostic score and its derived scores predicts contrast-associated acute kidney injury in patients undergoing coronary angiography

Background

Glasgow prognostic score (GPS) is a reliable scoring system reflecting both nutritional and inflammatory factors. The association of inflammation and nutrition with contrast-associated acute kidney injury (CA-AKI) has been validated. This study set out to determine the impact of GPS and its derived scores on CA-AKI incidence.

Methods

Populations treated with coronary angiography with/without percutaneous coronary intervention were screened retrospectively. According to C-reactive protein and albumin, three kinds of GPSs were involved: GPS, modified GPS (mGPS), and the cutoff-based GPS (cGPS) which was derived by calculating the optimal cutoff values of two parameters. Primary endpoint was CA-AKI. Pearson' r correlation, linear/logistic regression, receiver operating characteristic curve as well as subgroup analyses were conducted.

Results

Totally, 3150 patients were valid for analysis, and the mean age was 67.5 years old, with 66.4 % male. Of these, 610 patients suffered CA-AKI. All three kinds of GPSs were independently associated with the SCr elevation proportion (GPS: β = 4.850, 95%CI [3.700 to 8.722], P < 0.001; mGPS: β = 3.450, 95%CI [1.896 to 6.888], P = 0.001; cGPS: β = 3.992, 95%CI [2.368 to 6.940], P < 0.001). GPS, mGPS and cGPS were proved to be the independent risk factors for CA-AKI risk (all P for trend <0.05). Compared with GPS and mGPS, cGPS was of greater prognostic value for predicting CA-AKI incidence (cGPS: AUC = 0.633; mGPS: AUC = 0.567; GPS: AUC = 0.611). Main findings were also consistent in all subgroup analysis.

Conclusion

Preprocedural GPS and its derived scores (mGPS and cGPS), especially cGPS, were correlated with the incidence of CA-AKI, which might assist in clinical decision making in treating CA-AKI.

Simultaneous Regulation of Surface Properties and Microstructure of Graphene Oxide Membranes for Enhanced Nanofiltration Performance

The surface properties and microstructure of graphene oxide (GO)-based membranes are both crucial for enhanced nanofiltration performance. Herein, a GO nanofiltration membrane is fabricated with regulatable surface properties and microstructure via a facile two-step impregnation in KOH and following HCl aqueous solutions. The type and number of oxygen-containing groups in GO membranes change with fewer C-O-C/C-OH and C═O but more COOH groups, and they are readily regulated by alkaline treatment time, which enables enhanced surface hydrophilicity and larger surface ζ potentials. Meanwhile, a few tiny defects are present in the GO sheets, which could increase the number of pores and decrease the length of water nanochannels. Such surface properties and microstructure together determine the excellent nanofiltration performance of the GO membranes with fast and selective water permeation, e.g., ∼99.5% rejection toward CBB G250 and flux of 56.9 ± 1.0 L m-2 h-1. This work provides insights into the design of high-performance two-dimensional laminar membranes.

Selective electrocatalytic hydrogenation of lignocellulose-derived 5-hydroxymethylfurfural with superior productivities

Recently, valorization of biomass to value-added chemicals has drawn increasing attention due to carbon neutrality and sustainability. 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural is an important lignocellulose-derived biomass molecule. Herein, we have demonstrated the efficient electrocatalytic hydrogenation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural to value-added 2,5-bis(hydroxymethyl)furan. An optimized electrolyzer with a highly electrolyte-permeable Pd cathode well balanced the selectivity, faradaic efficiency, and productivity. We have achieved high selectivity (97%) and faradaic efficiency (72%) at 50 mA cm-2 current density, and a record high productivity of 0.923 mmol cm-2·h-1 at 100 mA cm-2 current density, ∼2 times advanced compared with the best productivity in prior reports. We applied in situ infrared reflection-absorption spectroscopy to investigate the electrode-potential-dependent reaction pathways and mechanism, confirming that the highly selective hydrogenation of HMF is due to the tilted adsorption geometry through carbonyl group bonding to the surface of electrode. This work offers an opportunity for the sustainable electrocatalytic valorization of renewable lignocellulose-derived biomass with superior productivities approaching industrial level.

Non-Contact Adaptive Voltage Sensor Based on Electric Field Coupling Principle

Non-contact voltage sensors based on the principle of electric field coupling have the advantages of simple loading and unloading, high construction safety, and the fact that they are not affected by line insulation. They can accurately measure line voltage without the need to connect to the measured object. Starting from the principle of non-contact voltage measurement, this article abstracts a non-contact voltage measurement model into the principle of capacitive voltage sharing and deduces its transfer relationship. Secondly, it is theoretically inferred that the edge effect of the traditional symmetric structure sensor plate will cause the actual capacitance value between the sensor plates to be greater than the theoretically calculated capacitance value, resulting in a certain measurement error. Therefore, the addition of an equipotential ring structure is proposed to eliminate the edge additional capacitance caused by the edge effect in order to design the sensor structure. In addition, due to the influence of sensor volume, material dielectric constant, and other factors, the capacitance value of the sensor itself is only at pF level, resulting in poor low-frequency performance and imbuing the sensor with a low voltage division ratio. In this regard, this article analyzes the measurement principle of non-contact voltage sensors. By paralleling ceramic capacitors between the two electrode plates of the sensor, the capacitance of the sensor itself is effectively increased, improving the low-frequency performance of the sensor while also increasing the sensor's voltage division ratio. In addition, by introducing a single pole double throw switch to switch parallel capacitors with different capacitance values, the sensor can have different voltage division ratios in different measurement scenarios, giving it a certain degree of adaptability. The final sensor prototype was made, and a high and low voltage experimental platform was built to test the sensor performance. The experimental results showed that the sensor has good linearity and high measurement accuracy, with a ratio error of within ±3%.

Variability in Plasma Lipids Between Intensive Statin Therapy and Conventional-Dose Statins Combined with Ezetimibe Therapy in Patients with Coronary Atherosclerosis Disease

Dyslipidemia has been widely recognized as a significant risk factor for coronary atherosclerosis disease (CAD). In fact, lipid variability has emerged as a more reliable predictor of cardiovascular events. In this study, we aimed to examine the variability in plasma lipids under two different lipid-lowering regimens (intensive statin therapy versus the combination of conventional-dose statins with ezetimibe). In total, we have retrospectively examined 1275 patients with CAD from January 2009 to April 2019 and divided them into two groups: intensive statin group and conventional-dose statins combined with ezetimibe group. All patients were followed up for at least 1 year. Lipid variability was verified by standard deviation (SD), coefficient of variation (CV), and variability independent of mean (VIM) triple methods. Multiple linear regression and subgroup analyses were performed. In the overall participants, the mean age was 62.3 ± 10.4 years old, and 72.8% were male. Multivariate linear regression analysis indicated that the intensive statin group had lower variability in terms of total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) in all SD, CV, and VIM triple methods than statins combined with ezetimibe group (P for all <0.05). Similar results were established in the subgroup analyses based on atorvastatin or rosuvastatin, diabetes mellitus or not, and hypertension or not (P for all < 0.05). Thus, we can conclude that intensive statin therapy could contribute in lowering lipid variability than conventional-dose statins combined with ezetimibe therapy among patients with CAD.

Liver enzymes mediate the association between aldehydes co-exposure and hypertriglyceridemia

Aldehydes are recognized environmental toxicants that may affect lipid metabolism. For instance, acrolein has been found to increase serum triglyceride (TG) levels exclusively. However, it remains unclear whether other aldehydes are also associated with hypertriglyceridemia (HTG), and what mechanisms may be involved. This cross-sectional study analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, 2013-2014) to identify associations between serum aldehydes, liver enzymes, and HTG. Serum aldehydes included crotonaldehyde (CRAL), propanaldehyde (3AL), butyraldehyde (4AL), pentanaldehyde (5AL), isopentanaldehyde (I5AL), and heptanaldehyde (7AL). Liver enzymes included alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT). HTG was defined as fasting TG levels ≥ 1.7 mmol/L. Aldehyde co-exposure was quantified using weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR), while mediation analysis was performed to investigate the role of liver enzymes. Among 1474 participants (mean age 38.6 years, male 50.0%), 426 were diagnosed with HTG. 4AL, 5AL, I5AL, and 7AL were shown to be positively associated with HTG (all P values <0.05). Aldehydes co-exposure was also positively associated with HTG (OR 1.706, 95%CI 1.299-2.240), with 5AL contributing the highest weight (35.3%). Furthermore, aldehydes co-exposure showed positive associations with ALT, AST, and GGT (all P values <0.05), and all four liver enzymes were positively associated with HTG (all P values <0.05). Mediation analysis revealed that liver enzymes (ALT, AST, and GGT) may mediate the associations of 5AL and 7AL with HTG (all P values <0.05). This study identified a positive association between aldehyde co-exposure and HTG, which may be partially mediated by liver enzymes.