Phosphate solubilization and plant growth properties are promoted by a lactic acid bacterium in calcareous soil

On the basis of good phosphate solubilization ability of a lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strain Limosilactobacillus sp. LF-17, bacterial agent was prepared and applied to calcareous soil to solubilize phosphate and promote the growth of maize seedlings in this study. A pot experiment showed that the plant growth indicators, phosphorus content, and related enzyme activity of the maize rhizospheric soils in the LF treatment (treated with LAB) were the highest compared with those of the JP treatment (treated with phosphate solubilizing bacteria, PSB) and the blank control (CK). The types of organic acids in maize rhizospheric soil were determined through LC-MS, and 12 acids were detected in all the treatments. The abundant microbes belonged to the genera of Lysobacter, Massilia, Methylbacillus, Brevundimonas, and Limosilactobacillus, and they were beneficial to dissolving phosphate or secreting growth-promoting phytohormones, which were obviously higher in the LF and JP treatments than in CK as analyzed by high-throughput metagenomic sequencing methods. In addition, the abundance values of several enzymes, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) orthology, and Carbohydrate-Active Enzymes (CAZys), which were related to substrate assimilation and metabolism, were the highest in the LF treatment. Therefore, aside from phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms, LAB can be used as environmentally friendly crop growth promoters in agriculture and provide another viable option for microbial fertilizers. KEY POINTS: • The inoculation of LAB strain effectively promoted the growth and chlorophyll synthesis of maize seedlings. • The inoculation of LAB strain significantly increased the TP content of maize seedlings and the AP concentration of the rhizosphere soil. • The inoculation of LAB strain increased the abundances of the dominant beneficial functional microbes in the rhizosphere soil.

The complexity of glucose time series is associated with short- and long-term mortality in critically ill adults: a multi-center, prospective, observational study

BACKGROUND

The wealth of data taken from continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) remains to be fully used. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between a promising new CGM metric, complexity of glucose time series index (CGI), and mortality in critically ill patients.

METHODS

A total of 293 patients admitted to mixed medical/surgical intensive care units from 5 medical centers in Shanghai were prospectively included between May 2020 and November 2021. CGI was assessed using intermittently scanned CGM, with a median monitoring period of 12.0 days. Outcome measures included short- and long-term mortality.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up period of 1.7 years, a total of 139 (47.4%) deaths were identified, of which 73 (24.9%) occurred within the first 30 days after ICU admission, and 103 (35.2%) within 90 days. The multivariable-adjusted HRs for 30-day mortality across ascending tertiles of CGI were 1.00 (reference), 0.68 (95% CI 0.38-1.22) and 0.36 (95% CI 0.19-0.70), respectively. For per 1-SD increase in CGI, the risk of 30-day mortality was decreased by 51% (HR 0.49, 95% CI 0.35-0.69). Further adjustment for HbA1c, mean glucose during hospitalization and glucose variability partially attenuated these associations, although the link between CGI and 30-day mortality remained significant (per 1-SD increase: HR 0.57, 95% CI 0.40-0.83). Similar results were observed when 90-day mortality was considered as the outcome. Furthermore, CGI was also significantly and independently associated with long-term mortality (per 1-SD increase: HR 0.77, 95% CI 0.61-0.97).

CONCLUSIONS

In critically ill patients, CGI is significantly associated with short- and long-term mortality.

[Interpretation of the pathological diagnostic criteria and characteristics of high-grade thyroid follicular-derived carcinoma in the 5th edition WHO classification]

The 5th edition WHO classification of thyroid tumors proposed high-grade non-anaplastic thyroid carcinoma, which includes traditional poorly differentiated thyroid carcinoma (PDTC) and differentiated high-grade thyroid carcinoma (DHGTC), with a prognosis between highly differentiated thyroid carcinoma and anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC), in which about 50% of patients do not take radioactive iodine. Therefore, this classification is of great clinical significance. This article interprets the diagnostic criteria and genetic features of high-grade non-anaplastic thyroid carcinoma in 5th edition WHO classification, comparing with ATC.

Dimeric Rh Complexes Supported by a Bridging Phosphido/Bis(Phosphine) PPP Ligand

Rh complexes of a tridentate PPP ligand bearing 1,2-pyrrolediyl linkers have been prepared, including examples with the central P donor being either a phosphine or a phosphide. Three bimetallic Rh complexes containing the diamandoid Rh2P2 core (P = phosphido) have been structurally and spectroscopically characterized. The Rh-Rh interaction in these three dimers was examined by way of structural comparisons and DFT investigations.

Large-scale array for radio astronomy on the farside (LARAF)

At the Royal Society meeting in 2023, we have mainly presented our lunar orbit array concept called DSL, and also briefly introduced a concept of a lunar surface array, LARAF. As the DSL concept had been presented before, in this article, we introduce the LARAF. We propose to build an array in the far side of the Moon, with a master station which handles the data collection and processing, and 20 stations with maximum baseline of 10 km. Each station consists of 12 membrane antenna units, and the stations are connected to the master station by power line and optical fibre. The array will make interferometric observation in the 0.1-50 MHz band during the lunar night, powered by regenerated fuel cells. The whole array can be carried to the lunar surface with a heavy rocket mission, and deployed with a rover in eight months. Such an array would be an important step in the long-term development of lunar-based ultralong wavelength radio astronomy. It has a sufficiently high sensitivity to observe many radio sources in the sky, though still short of the dark age fluctuations. We discuss the possible options in the power supply, data communication, deployment etc. This article is part of a discussion meeting issue 'Astronomy from the Moon: the next decades (part 2)'.

Reducing younger and older adults' spatial disorientation during indoor-outdoor transitions: Effects of route alignment and visual access on wayfinding

Getting lost could lead to frustration, anxiety, and even fatal accidents. Previous research primarily focused on disorientation in indoor or outdoor environments separately. The indoor-outdoor transition received little attention, yet it is in this complex transition that individuals often lose their way. Therefore, the effects of indoor-outdoor route alignment, visual access, and age on wayfinding performance and spatial cognition were examined. Twenty older adults (aged 18-25) and twenty young adults (aged 65-82) participated in an experiment through desktop Virtual Reality (VR). They traversed indoor-outdoor environments and were informed within a building to quickly navigate an item inside another building. They also drew the route map. Participants repeated tasks in four different environments. Their spatial cognition and wayfinding performance were analyzed. Four main findings were derived. Firstly, the accuracy of global representation of the routes in the indoor-outdoor route alignment environment was higher than that in the non-aligned environment. Secondly, in environments with higher visual access, the accuracy of global representation of the routes for older adults was higher than that with lower visual access. Thirdly, enhancing visual access attenuated the negative impact of the non-aligned route on global representation of the routes. This effect is particularly beneficial for older adults. Fourthly, the younger adults outperformed the older adults in both wayfinding performance and global representation of the routes in indoor-outdoor environments. This difference could potentially be attributed to variations in education level, mental rotation ability, and digital experience. These findings provide valuable implications for urban design and wayfinding strategies.

Influence of climate and land use on watershed anthropogenic phosphorus inputs and riverine phosphorus export dynamics: A global analysis

Many studies have found predictive relationships between riverine phosphorus (P) export and net anthropogenic P inputs (NAPI) at the watershed scale, but the global or regional extent of these relationships has not been empirically quantified. Herein, we present a data-driven global assessment of the response of riverine total P (TP) fluxes to NAPI based on 358 watersheds. NAPI exhibited high spatial heterogeneity (2-12,085 kg P km-2 yr-1) and was well correlated with riverine TP fluxes. Riverine TP export fractions of NAPI were primarily regulated by NAPI components, hydroclimate factors, and land-use as determined through a random-forest meta-analysis. In watersheds dominated by disturbed land-use (e.g., agricultural and developed lands), runoff emerged as pivotal climate-related factors influencing riverine export fractions of NAPI. In watersheds dominated by natural land-use, runoff, precipitation and temperature were identified as the most critical factors. We developed a mixed-effects meta-regression model (R2 = 0.63-0.70, RMSE = 19-78 %, n = 87-202) to examine the quantitative relationship between riverine TP fluxes and NAPI, which avoids subjectivity in selecting influencing factors and regression forms. The model estimated that legacy P contributed 14-17 % of annual riverine TP fluxes in Chinese watersheds, 25 % in North American watersheds and 11-27 % in European watersheds. Annual NAPI contributions to annual riverine TP flux were 83-86 % in China, 75 % in North America and 73-89 % in Europe. The model forecasted 52-67 %, 69-71 % and 74-77 % reductions in riverine TP fluxes across Chinese, North American, and European watersheds by 2050 under five shared socio-economic pathway scenarios compared to 2010 baseline conditions, respectively. This study provides a straightforward and reliable method for quantifying anthropogenic P input and riverine P export dynamics within an acceptable error range. It provides guidance for developing phosphorus pollution control strategies to counter potential increases in phosphorus inputs due to expected changes in climate and land use.

MDM2 Inhibitors for Cancer Therapy: The Past, Present, and Future

Since its discovery over 35 years ago, MDM2 has emerged as an attractive target for the development of cancer therapy. MDM2's activities extend from carcinogenesis to immunity to the response to various cancer therapies. Since the report of the first MDM2 inhibitor more than 30 years ago, various approaches to inhibit MDM2 have been attempted, with hundreds of small-molecule inhibitors evaluated in preclinical studies and numerous molecules tested in clinical trials. Although many MDM2 inhibitors and degraders have been evaluated in clinical trials, there is currently no Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved MDM2 inhibitor on the market. Nevertheless, there are several current clinical trials of promising agents that may overcome the past failures, including agents granted FDA orphan drug or fast-track status. We herein summarize the research efforts to discover and develop MDM2 inhibitors, focusing on those that induce MDM2 degradation and exert anticancer activity, regardless of the p53 status of the cancer. We also describe how preclinical and clinical investigations have moved toward combining MDM2 inhibitors with other agents, including immune checkpoint inhibitors. Finally, we discuss the current challenges and future directions to accelerate the clinical application of MDM2 inhibitors. In conclusion, targeting MDM2 remains a promising treatment approach, and targeting MDM2 for protein degradation represents a novel strategy to downregulate MDM2 without the side effects of the existing agents blocking p53-MDM2 binding. Additional preclinical and clinical investigations are needed to finally realize the full potential of MDM2 inhibition in treating cancer and other chronic diseases where MDM2 has been implicated. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Overexpression/amplification of the MDM2 oncogene has been detected in various human cancers and is associated with disease progression, treatment resistance, and poor patient outcomes. This article reviews the previous, current, and emerging MDM2-targeted therapies and summarizes the preclinical and clinical studies combining MDM2 inhibitors with chemotherapy and immunotherapy regimens. The findings of these contemporary studies may lead to safer and more effective treatments for patients with cancers overexpressing MDM2.

Vesical Imaging-Reporting and Data System (VI-RADS) as a grouping imaging biomarker combined with a decision-tree mode to preoperatively predict the pathological grade of bladder cancer

AIM

To investigate whether the Vesical Imaging-Reporting and Data System (VI-RADS) could be used to develop a new non-invasive preoperative grade-prediction system to partially predict high-grade bladder cancer (HG-BC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The present study enrolled 89 primary BC patients prospectively from March 2022 to June 2023. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of VI-RADS for predicting HG-BC and muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) in the entire group. In the low VI-RADS (≤2) group, the decision tree-based method was used to obtain significant predictors and construct the decision-tree model (DT model). The performance of the DT model and low VI-RADS scores for predicting HG-BC was determined using ROC, calibration, and decision curve analyses.

RESULTS

At a cut-off of ≥3, the specificity and positive predictive value of VI-RADS for predicting HG-BC in the entire group was 100%, and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.697. Among 65 patients with low VI-RADS scores, the DT model showed an AUC of 0.884 in predicting HG-BC compared to 0.506 for low VI-RADS scores. Calibration and decision curve analyses showed that the DT model performed better than the low VI-RADS scores.

CONCLUSION

Most VI-RADS scores ≥3 correspond to HG-BCs. VI-RADS could be used as a grouping imaging biomarker for a pathological grade-prediction procedure, which in combination with the DT model for low VI-RADS (≤2) populations, would provide a potential preoperative non-invasive method of predicting HG-BC.

A 3D Cross-Linked Metal-Organic Framework (MOF)-Derived Polymer Electrolyte for Dendrite-Free Solid-State Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium metal batteries (LMBs) with high energy density have received widespread attention; however, there are usually issues with lithium dendrite growth and safety. Therefore, there is a demand for solid electrolytes with high mechanical strength, room-temperature ionic conductivity, and good interface performance. Herein, a 3D cross-linked metal-organic framework (MOF)-derived polymer solid electrolyte exhibits good mechanical and ionic conductive properties simultaneously, in which the MOF with optimized pore size and strong imidazole cation sites can restrict the migration of anions, resulting in a uniform Li+ flux and a high lithium-ion transference number (0.54). Moreover, the MOF-derived polymer solid electrolytes with the 3D cross-linked network can promote the rapid movement of Li+ and inhibit the growth of lithium dendrites. Lithium symmetric batteries assembled with the 3D MOF-derived polymer solid electrolytes are subjected to lithium plating/stripping and cycled over 2000 h at a current density of 0.1 mA cm-2 and over 800 h at a current density of 0.2 mA cm-2. The Li/P-PETEA-MOF/LiFePO4 batteries exhibit excellent long-cycle stability and cycle reversibility.

Platinum-Loaded Cerium Oxide Capable of Repairing Neuronal Homeostasis for Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury Therapy

Effective neuroprotective agents are required to prevent neurological damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI) following an acute ischemic stroke. Herein, it is aimed to develop the neuroprotective agents of cerium oxide loaded with platinum clusters engineered modifications (Ptn-CeO2). The density functional theory calculations show that Ptn-CeO2 could effectively scavenge ROS, including hydroxyl radicals (·OH) and superoxide anions (·O2 -). In addition, Ptn-CeO2 exhibits the superoxide dismutase- and catalase-like enzyme activities, which is capable of scavenging hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The in vitro studies show that Ptn-CeO2 could adjust the restoration of the mitochondrial metabolism to ROS homeostasis, rebalance cytokines, and feature high biocompatibility. The studies in mice CIRI demonstrate that Ptn-CeO2 could also restore cytokine levels, reduce cysteine aspartate-specific protease (cleaved Caspase 3) levels, and induce the polarization of microglia to M2-type macrophages, thus inhibiting the inflammatory responses. As a result, Ptn-CeO2 inhibits the reperfusion-induced neuronal apoptosis, relieves the infarct volume, reduces the neurological severity score, and improves cognitive function. Overall, these findings suggest that the prominent neuroprotective effect of the engineered Ptn-CeO2 has a significant neuroprotective effect and provides a potential therapeutic alternative for CIRI.

Intramolecular chaperone-assisted dual-anchoring activation (ICDA): a suitable preorganization for electrophilic halocyclization

The halocyclization reaction represents one of the most common methodologies for the synthesis of heterocyclic molecules. Many efforts have been made to balance the relationship between structure, reactivity and selectivity, including the design of new electrophilic halogenation reagents and the utilization of activating strategies. However, discovering universal reagents or activating strategies for electrophilic halocyclization remains challenging due to the case-by-case practice for different substrates or different cyclization models. Here we report an intramolecular chaperone-assisted dual-anchoring activation (ICDA) model for electrophilic halocyclization, taking advantage of the non-covalent dual-anchoring orientation as the driving force. This protocol allows a practical, catalyst-free and rapid approach to access seven types of small-sized, medium-sized, and large-sized heterocyclic units and to realize polyene-like domino halocyclizations, as exemplified by nearly 90 examples, including a risk-reducing flow protocol for gram-scale synthesis. DFT studies verify the crucial role of ICDA in affording a suitable preorganization for transition state stabilization and X+ transfer acceleration. The utilization of the ICDA model allows a spatiotemporal adjustment to straightforwardly obtain fast, selective and high-yielding synthetic transformations.

Targeting EED as a key PRC2 complex mediator toward novel epigenetic therapeutics

EED within the PRC2 complex is crucial for chromatin regulation particularly in tumor development, making its inhibition a promising epigenetic therapeutic strategy. Significant advancement in PRC2 inhibitor development has been achieved with an approved EZH2 inhibitor in the market and with others in the clinical trials. However, current EZH2 inhibitors are limited to specific blood cancers and encounter therapeutic resistance. EED stabilizes PRC2 complex and enhances its activity through unique allosteric mechanisms, thereby acting as both a scaffold protein and a recognizer of H3K27me3 making it an attractive drug target. This review provides an overview of epigenetic therapeutic strategies targeting EED, including allosteric inhibitors, PPI inhibitors, and PROTACs, together with brief discussions on the relevant challenges, opportunities, and future directions.

IGSF8 is an innate immune checkpoint and cancer immunotherapy target

Antigen presentation defects in tumors are prevalent mechanisms of adaptive immune evasion and resistance to cancer immunotherapy, whereas how tumors evade innate immunity is less clear. Using CRISPR screens, we discovered that IGSF8 expressed on tumors suppresses NK cell function by interacting with human KIR3DL2 and mouse Klra9 receptors on NK cells. IGSF8 is normally expressed in neuronal tissues and is not required for cell survival in vitro or in vivo. It is overexpressed and associated with low antigen presentation, low immune infiltration, and worse clinical outcomes in many tumors. An antibody that blocks IGSF8-NK receptor interaction enhances NK cell killing of malignant cells in vitro and upregulates antigen presentation, NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity, and T cell signaling in vivo. In syngeneic tumor models, anti-IGSF8 alone, or in combination with anti-PD1, inhibits tumor growth. Our results indicate that IGSF8 is an innate immune checkpoint that could be exploited as a therapeutic target.

Functionally selective dopamine D1 receptor endocytosis and signaling by catechol and non-catechol agonists

The dopamine D1 receptor (D1R) has fundamental roles in voluntary movement and memory and is a validated drug target for neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders. However, previously developed D1R selective agonists possess a catechol moiety which displays poor pharmacokinetic properties. The first selective non-catechol D1R agonists were recently discovered and unexpectedly many of these ligands showed G protein biased signaling. Here, we investigate both catechol and non-catechol D1R agonists to validate potential biased signaling and examine if this impacts agonist-induced D1R endocytosis. We determined that most, but not all, non-catechol agonists display G protein biased signaling at the D1R and have reduced or absent Beta-arrestin recruitment. A notable exception was compound (Cmpd) 19, a non-catechol agonist with full efficacy at both D1R-G protein or D1R Beta-arrestin pathways. In addition, the catechol ligand A-77636 was a highly potent, super agonist for D1R Beta-arrestin activity. When examined for agonist-induced D1R endocytosis, balanced agonists SKF-81297 and Cmpd 19 induced robust D1R endocytosis while the G protein biased agonists did not. The Beta-arrestin super agonist, A-77636, showed significantly increased D1R endocytosis. Moreover, Beta-arrestin recruitment efficacy of tested agonists strongly correlated with total D1R endocytosis. Taken together, these results indicate the degree of D1R signaling functional selectivity profoundly impacts D1R endocytosis regardless of pharmacophore. The range of functional selectivity of these D1R agonists will provide valuable tools to further investigate D1R signaling, trafficking and therapeutic potential.

Rhizoma Alismatis Decoction improved mitochondrial dysfunction to alleviate SASP by enhancing autophagy flux and apoptosis in hyperlipidemia acute pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an inflammatory disorder of the exocrine pancreas, especially hyperlipidemia acute pancreatitis (HLAP) is the third leading cause of acute pancreatitis which is more severe with a greater incidence of persistent multiorgan failure. HLAP inflicts injury upon the organelles within the acinar cell, particularly mitochondria, the endolysosomal-autophagy system, and is accompanied by senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). RAD, only two consists of Rhizoma Alismatis and Atractylodes macrocephala Rhizoma, which is best known for its ability to anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering. Nevertheless, the mechanism by which RAD alleviates HLAP remains obscure, necessitating further investigation.

PURPOSE

The study aimed to assess the effects of the RAD on HLAP and to elucidate the underlying mechanism in vivo and in vitro, offering a potential medicine for clinical treatment for HLAP.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

C57BL/6 mice with hyperlipidemia acute pancreatitis were induced by HFD and CER, then administrated with RAD. AR42J were stimulated by cerulein or conditioned medium and then cultured with RAD. Serums were analyzed to evaluate potential pancreas and liver damage. Furthermore, tissue samples were obtained for histological, and protein investigations by H&E, Oil red staining, and Western blot. In addition, western blot and immunofluorescent staining were utilized to estimate the effect of RAD on mitochondrial function, autophagy flux, and SASP.

RESULTS

In vivo, RAD considerably alleviated systemic inflammation while attenuating TC, TG, AMY, LPS, inflammatory cytokines, histopathology changes, oxidative damage, mitochondrial fission, and autophagy markers in HLAP mice. Impaired autophagy flux and mitochondrial dysfunction resulted in a significant enhancement of NLRP3 and IL-1β in the pancreas. RAD could reverse these changes. In vitro, RAD significantly restored mitochondrial membrane potential and oxidative phosphorylation levels. RAD decreased Beclin-1 and LC3-II expression and increased LAMP-1 and Parkin-Pink expression, which showed that RAD significantly ameliorated HLAP-induced damage to the mitochondria function by suppressing mitochondrial oxidative damage and enhancing autophagy flux and mitophagy to remove the damaged mitochondria. In addition, we found that RAD could up-regulate the expression of BAX, and Bad and down-regulate the expression of p16, and p21, indicating that RAD could promote damaged cell apoptosis and alleviate SASP.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed that RAD ameliorates mitochondrial function to alleviate SASP through enhancing autophagy flux, mitophagy, and apoptosis which provided a molecular basis for the advancement and development of protection strategies against HLAP.

Enhanced detection of African swine fever virus in samples with low viral load using digital PCR technology

Detection of low viral load samples has long been a challenge for African swine fever (ASF) prevention and control. This study aimed to compare the detection efficacy of droplet digital PCR(ddPCR) and quantitative PCR(qPCR) for African swine fever virus (ASFV) at different viral loads, with a focus on assessing the accuracy of ddPCR in detecting low viral load samples. The results revealed that ddPCR had a detection limit of 1.97 (95% CI 1.48 - 4.12) copies/reaction and was 18.99 times more sensitive than qPCR (detection limit: 37.42, 95% CI 29.56 - 69.87 copies/reaction). In the quantification of high, medium, and low viral load samples, ddPCR showed superior stability with lower intra- (2.06% - 7.58%) and inter-assay (3.83% - 7.50%) coefficients of variation than those of qPCR (intra-assay: 8.08%-29.86%; inter-assay: 9.27%-34.58%). Bland-Altman analysis indicated acceptable consistency between ddPCR and qPCR for high and medium viral load samples; however, discrepancies were observed for low viral load samples, where two samples (2/24, 8.33%) exhibited deviations beyond the acceptable range (-46.18 copies/reaction). Moreover, ddPCR demonstrated better performance in detecting ASFV in clinical samples from asymptomatic pigs and environmental samples, with qPCR showing false negative rates of 7.69% (2/26) and 27.27% (12/44), respectively. McNemar analysis revealed significant differences between the two methods (P = 0.000) for samples with a viral load <100 copies/reaction. The results of this study demonstrate that ddPCR has better detection limits and adaptability than qPCR, allowing for a more accurate detection of ASFV in early-stage infections and low-concentration environmental samples. These findings highlight the potential of ddPCR in the prevention and control of ASF.

Exogenous Spermidine Alleviated Low-Temperature Damage by Affecting Polyamine Metabolism and Antioxidant Levels in Apples

Low-temperature stress significantly limits the growth, development, and geographical distribution of apple cultivation. Spermidine (Spd), a known plant growth regulator, plays a vital role in the plant's response to abiotic stress. Yet, the mechanisms by which exogenous Spd enhances cold resistance in apples remain poorly understood. Therefore, the present study analyzed the effects of exogenous Spd on antioxidant enzyme activity, polyamine metabolism, and related gene expression levels of 1-year-old apple branches under low-temperature stress. Treatment with exogenous Spd was found to stabilize branch tissue biofilms and significantly reduce the levels of reactive oxygen species by elevating proline content and boosting the activity of antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase. It also upregulated the activities of arginine decarboxylase, S-adenosylmethionine decarboxylase, and spermidine synthase and the expression levels of MdADC1, MdSAMDC1, and MdSPDS1 under low-temperature stress and led to the accumulation of large amounts of Spd and spermine. Moreover, compared with the 2 mmol·L-1 Spd treatment, the 1 mmol·L-1 Spd treatment increased the expression levels of cold-responsive genes MdCBF1/2/3, MdCOR47, and MdKIN1, significantly. The findings suggest that exogenous Spd can enhance cold resistance in apple branches significantly. This enhancement is achieved by modulating polyamine metabolism and improving antioxidant defense mechanisms, which could be exploited to improve apple cultivation under cold stress conditions.

Microstructural, Micromechanical Atlas of the Temporomandibular Joint Disc

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc is mainly composed of collagen, with its arrangement responding to efficient stress distribution. However, microstructural and micromechanical transformations of the TMJ disc under resting, functional, and pathological conditions remain unclear. To address this, our study presents a high-resolution microstructural and mechanical atlas of the porcine TMJ disc. First, the naive microstructure and mechanical properties were investigated in porcine TMJ discs (resting and functional conditions). Subsequently, the perforation and tear models (pathological conditions) were compared. Following this, a rabbit model of anterior disc displacement (abnormal stress) was studied. Results show diverse microstructures and mechanical properties at the nanometer to micrometer scale. In the functional state, gradual unfolding of the crimping cycle in secondary and tertiary structures leads to D-cycle prolongation in the primary structure, causing tissue failure. Pathological conditions lead to stress concentration near the injury site due to collagen interfibrillar traffic patterns, resulting in earlier damage manifestation. Additionally, the abnormal stress model shows collagen damage initiating at the primary structure and extending to the superstructure over time. These findings highlight collagen's various roles in different pathophysiological states. Our study offers valuable insights into TMJ disc function and dysfunction, aiding the development of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for TMJ disorders, as well as providing guidance for the design of structural biomimetic materials.

Alignment error modeling and control of a double-sided microlens array during precision glass molding

Double-sided microlens arrays (DSMLAs) include combinations of two single-sided MLAs to overcome positioning errors and greatly improve light transmissivity compared to other types of lenses. Precision glass molding (PGM) is used to fabricate DSMLAs, but controlling alignment errors during this process is challenging. In this paper, a mold assembly was manufactured with a novel combination of materials to improve the alignment accuracy of mold cores during PGM by using the nonlinear thermal expansion characteristics of the various materials to improve the DSMLA alignment accuracy. By establishing a mathematical model of the DSMLA alignment error and a thermal expansion model of the mold-sleeve pair, the relationship between the maximum alignment error of the DSMLA and the mold-sleeve gap was determined. This research provides a method to optimize the mold-sleeve gap and minimize the alignment error of the DSMLA. The measured DSMLA alignment error was 10.56 μm, which is similar to the predicted maximum alignment error. Optical measurements showed that the uniformity of the homogenized beam spot was 97.81%, and the effective homogeneous area accounted for 91.66% of the total area. This proposed method provides a novel strategy to improve the performance of DSMLAs.

[High-quality acceleration of the Chinese national schistosomiasis elimination programme to advance the building of Healthy China]

The goal of achieving elimination of schistosomiasis across all endemic counties in China by 2030 was proposed in the Outline of the Healthy China 2030 Plan. On June 16, 2023, the Action Plan to Accelerate the Elimination of Schistosomiasis in China (2023-2030) was jointly issued by National Disease Control and Prevention Administration and other 10 ministries, which deployed the targets and key tasks of the national schistosomiasis elimination programme in China. This article describes the progress of the national schistosomiasis control programme, analyzes the opportunities to eliminate schistosomiasis, and proposes targeted recommendations to tackle the challenges of schistosomiasis elimination, so as to accelerate the process towards schistosomiasis elimination and facilitate the building of a healthy China.

AI is a viable alternative to high throughput screening: a 318-target study

High throughput screening (HTS) is routinely used to identify bioactive small molecules. This requires physical compounds, which limits coverage of accessible chemical space. Computational approaches combined with vast on-demand chemical libraries can access far greater chemical space, provided that the predictive accuracy is sufficient to identify useful molecules. Through the largest and most diverse virtual HTS campaign reported to date, comprising 318 individual projects, we demonstrate that our AtomNet® convolutional neural network successfully finds novel hits across every major therapeutic area and protein class. We address historical limitations of computational screening by demonstrating success for target proteins without known binders, high-quality X-ray crystal structures, or manual cherry-picking of compounds. We show that the molecules selected by the AtomNet® model are novel drug-like scaffolds rather than minor modifications to known bioactive compounds. Our empirical results suggest that computational methods can substantially replace HTS as the first step of small-molecule drug discovery.

Outcomes of 2-SSRS plus bevacizumab therapy strategy for brainstem metastases (BSM) over 2 cm3: a multi-center study

Despite 2-staged stereotactic radiosurgery (2-SSRS) has been reported to provide patients with improved survival and limited toxicity, 2-SSRS for brainstem metastases (BSM) larger than 2 cm3 remains challenging. We tried to find out the effectiveness and safety of 2-SSRS plus bevacizumab therapy for BSMs over 2 cm3 and prognostic factors that related to the tumor local control. Patients that received 2-SSRS plus bevacizumab therapy from four gamma knife center were retrospectively studied from Jan 2014 to December 2023. Patients' domestic characteristics and the tumor features were evaluated before and after the treatment. Cox regression model was used to find out prognostic factors for tumor local control. 53 patients with 63 lesions received the therapy. The median peri-tumor edema volume greatly reduced at the end of therapy (P < 0.01), the median tumor volume dramatically reduced (P < 0.01) and patients' KPS score improved significantly (P < 0.05) 3 months after the therapy. Patients' median OS was 12.8 months. The tumor local control rate at 3, 6, and 12 months was 98.4%, 93.4%, and 85.2%. The incidence side effects were mainly oral and nasal hemorrhage (5.7%, 3/53), and radiation necrosis (13.2%, 7/53). Patients with primary lung adenocarcinoma, therapeutic dose over 12 Gy at second-stage SRS, primary peri-tumor edema volume less than 2.3 cm³, primary tumor volume less than 3.7 cm³ would enjoy longer tumor local control. These results suggested that 2-SSRS plus bevacizumab therapy was effective and safe for BSMs over 2 cm3. However, it is important for patients with BSM to receive early diagnosis and treatment to achieve good tumor local control.

Increased frequency of CHD1 deletions in prostate cancers of African American men is associated with rapid disease progression without inducing homologous recombination deficiency

We analyzed genomic data derived from the prostate cancer of African and European American men in order to identify differences that may contribute to racial disparity of outcome and that could also define novel therapeutic strategies. In addition to analyzing patient derived next generation sequencing data, we performed FISH based confirmatory studies of Chromodomain helicase DNA-binding protein 1 (CHD1) loss on prostate cancer tissue microarrays. We created CRISPR edited, CHD1 deficient prostate cancer cell lines for genomic, drug sensitivity and functional homologous recombination (HR) activity analysis. We found that subclonal deletion of CHD1 is nearly three times as frequent in prostate tumors of African American men than in men of European ancestry and it associates with rapid disease progression. We further showed that CHD1 deletion is not associated with homologous recombination deficiency associated mutational signatures in prostate cancer. In prostate cancer cell line models CHD1 deletion did not induce HR deficiency as detected by RAD51 foci formation assay or mutational signatures, which was consistent with the moderate increase of olaparib sensitivity. CHD1 deficient prostate cancer cells, however, showed higher sensitivity to talazoparib. CHD1 loss may contribute to worse outcome of prostate cancer in African American men. A deeper understanding of the interaction between CHD1 loss and PARP inhibitor sensitivity will be needed to determine the optimal use of targeted agents such as talazoparib in the context of castration resistant prostate cancer.

Classification and surgical treatment methods for partial traumatic upper lip deformity

OBJECTIVES

Establish a classification method for partial traumatic upper lip deformity and verify the classified repair method is superior to the traditional non-classified method.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Lip deformities caused by partial tissue defects of less than one-third of total lip length were classified into three types and conducted corresponding surgery based on philtrum ridge and orbicularis oris muscle involvement as well as the extent of roll line discontinuity. In this review, 42 cases were non-classified historical controls before the classification was devised, and 67 cases were classified. Data were collected 12 months after surgery. The pre- and post-operative data of all patients were compared.

RESULTS

In classified patients, the scar width decreased significantly, from 3.1 ± 0.6 mm to 1.2 ± 0.2 mm; the height difference of the groove line was significantly reduced from 3.3 ± 0.9 mm to 0.9 ± 0.1 mm; the ratio of the vermilion area of the affected to healthy side decreased significantly from 1.37 ± 0.31 to 1.05 ± 0.17; the ratio of the lip peak height of the affected to healthy side in type III decreased significantly from 1.91 ± 0.32 to 1.07 ± 0.12; patient satisfaction rate was about 98.5 percent.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical outcomes showed significant improvement of lip aesthetics with a high patient satisfaction rate in the classified group than the non-classified group.

EPAC inhibitor suppresses angiogenesis and tumor growth of triple-negative breast cancer

AIMS

Exchange protein directly activated by cAMP 1 (EPAC1), a major isoform of guanine nucleotide exchange factors, is highly expressed in vascular endothelia cells and regulates angiogenesis in the retina. High intratumor microvascular densities (MVD) resulting from angiogenesis is responsible for breast cancer development. Downregulation of EPAC1 in tumor cell reduces triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC)-induced angiogenesis. However, whether Epac1 expressed in vascular endothelial cells contributes to angiogenesis and tumor development of TNBC remains elusive.

MAIN METHODS

We employed NY0123, a previously identified potent EPAC inhibitor, to explore the anti-angiogenic biological role of EPAC1 in vitro and in vivo through vascular endothelial cells, rat aortic ring, Matrigel plug, and chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) and yolk sac membrane (YSM) assays, as well as the in vivo xenograft tumor models of TNBC in both chick embryo and mice.

KEY FINDINGS

Inhibiting EPAC1 in vascular endothelial cells by NY0123 significantly suppresses angiogenesis and tumor growth of TNBC. In addition, NY0123 possesses a better inhibitory efficacy than ESI-09, a reported specific EPAC inhibitor tool compound. Importantly, inhibiting EPAC1 in vascular endothelia cells regulates the typical angiogenic signaling network, which is associated with not only vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)/vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR2) signaling, but also PI3K/AKT, MEK/ERK and Notch pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings support that EPAC1 may serve as an effective anti-angiogenic therapeutic target of TNBC, and EPAC inhibitor NY0123 has the therapeutic potential to be developed for the treatment of TNBC.

Orphan GPR52 as an emerging neurotherapeutic target

GPR52 is a highly conserved, brain-enriched, Gs/olf-coupled orphan G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that controls various cyclic AMP (cAMP)-dependent physiological and pathological processes. Stimulation of GPR52 activity might be beneficial for the treatment of schizophrenia, psychiatric disorders and other human neurological diseases, whereas inhibition of its activity might provide a potential therapeutic approach for Huntington's disease. Excitingly, HTL0048149 (HTL'149), an orally available GPR52 agonist, has been advanced into phase I human clinical trials for the treatment of schizophrenia. In this concise review, we summarize the current understanding of GPR52 receptor distribution as well as its structure and functions, highlighting the recent advances in drug discovery efforts towards small-molecule GPR52 ligands. The opportunities and challenges presented by targeting GPR52 for novel therapeutics are also briefly discussed.

Chelerythrine induces apoptosis and ferroptosis through Nrf2 in ovarian cancer cells

Ovarian cancer is a prevalent malignancy in the female reproductive system, representing a significantly fatal and incurable tumor. Chelerythrine (CHE), a natural benzopyridine alkaloid, has demonstrated a broad spectrum of anticancer activities. Nevertheless, the ovarian cancer inhibitory impact of CHE remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the cytotoxic mechanism and potential targets of CHE on in vitro cultures of A2780 and SKOV3 cells derived from ovarian cancer. Additionally, in vivo experiments were conducted to confirm the suppressive impact of CHE on tumor growth in nude mice. The findings revealed that CHE impeded the growth of A2780 and SKOV3 cells in a concentration-time-dependent manner and significantly suppressed the development of tumors in nude mice. CHE elevated the level of oxidative stress in tumor cells, prompted cell cycle halt in the S phase, and increased their mitochondrial membrane potential. Western blotting results demonstrated that CHE could modulate the expression of proteins associated with apoptotic and ferroptosis processes in A2780 and SKOV3 cells. Nrf2 was verified to be an upstream key target mediating the inhibitory impact of CHE on ovarian cancer cells. In summary, CHE exerts its anti-cancer effects on ovarian cancer by modulating Nrf2, inhibiting cellular proliferation, and promoting apoptosis and ferroptosis.

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors and cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The effect of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors on cancer has yet to be fully elucidated.

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on cancer.

METHODS

We searched the PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov databases up to July 15, 2023, to identify eligible randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials that lasted at least ≥24 weeks. The primary outcome was the overall cancer incidence, and the secondary outcomes were the incidences of various types of cancer. We used the Mantel-Haenszel method, fixed effects model, risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) to analyze dichotomous variables. Subgroup analysis was performed based on the SGLT2 inhibitor type, baseline conditions, and follow-up duration. All meta-analyses were performed using RevMan5.4.1 and Stata MP 16.0.

RESULTS

A total of 58 publications (59 trials) were included, comprising 113,909 participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus and/or chronic kidney disease and/or high cardiovascular risk and/or heart failure (SGLT2 inhibitor group, 63864; placebo group, 50045). Compared to the placebo SGLT2 inhibitors did not significantly increase the overall incidence of cancer (RR 1.01; 95% CI 0.94-1.08; p = 0.82). However, ertugliflozin did significantly increase the overall incidence of cancer (RR 1.29; 95% CI 1.01-1.64; p = 0.04). SGLT2 inhibitors did not increase the risks of bladder or breast cancer. However, dapagliflozin did significantly reduce the risk of bladder cancer by 47% (RR 0.53; 95% CI 0.35-0.81; p = 0.003). SGLT2 inhibitors had no significant effect on the risks of gastrointestinal, thyroid, skin, respiratory, prostate, uterine/endometrial, hepatic and pancreatic cancers. Dapagliflozin reduced the risk of respiratory cancer by 26% (RR 0.74; 95% CI 0.55-1.00; p = 0.05). SGLT2 inhibitors (particularly mediated by dapagliflozin and ertugliflozin but not statistically significant) were associated with a greater risk of renal cancer than the placebo (RR 1.39; 95% CI 1.04-1.87; p = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

SGLT2 inhibitors did not significantly increase the overall risk of cancer or the risks of bladder and breast cancers. However, the higher risk of renal cancer associated with SGLT2 inhibitors warrants concern.

Comparison of the RF-CL and CACS-CL models to estimate the pretest probability of obstructive coronary artery disease and predict prognosis in patients with stable chest pain and diabetes mellitus

Background

The most appropriate tool for estimating the pretest probability (PTP) of obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and stable chest pain (SCP) remains unknown. Therefore, we aimed to validate and compare two recent models, namely, the risk factor-weighted clinical likelihood (RF-CL) model and coronary artery calcium score (CACS)-weighted clinical likelihood (CACS-CL) model, in these patient populations.

Methods

A total of 1,245 symptomatic patients with DM, who underwent CACS and coronary computed tomographic angiography (CCTA) scan, were identified and followed up. PTP of obstructive CAD for each patient was estimated using the RF-CL model and CACS-CL model, respectively. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), net reclassification improvement (NRI), and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) were used to assess the performance of models. The associations of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) with risk groups were evaluated using Cox proportional hazards regression.

Results

Compared with the RF-CL model, the CACS-CL model revealed a larger AUC (0.856 vs. 0.782, p = 0.0016), positive IDI (12%, p < 0.0001) and NRI (34%, p < 0.0001), stronger association to MACE (hazard ratio: 0.26 vs. 0.38) and less discrepancy between observed and predicted probabilities, resulting in a more effective risk assessment to optimize downstream clinical management.

Conclusion

Among patients with DM and SCP, the incorporation of CACS into the CACS-CL model resulted in a more accurate estimation for PTP and prediction of MACE. Utilizing the CACS-CL model, instead of the RF-CL model, might have greater potential to avoid unnecessary and omissive cardiovascular imaging testing with minimal cost.

Added value of spectral computed tomography quantitative parameters for differentiating tuberculosis-associated fibrosing mediastinitis from endobronchial lung cancer: initial results

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to explore the added value of spectral computed tomography (CT) parameters to conventional CT features for differentiating tuberculosis-associated fibrosing mediastinitis (TB-associated FM) from endobronchial lung cancer (EBLC).

METHODS

Chest spectral CT enhancement images from 109 patients with atelectasis were analyzed retrospectively. These patients were divided into two distinct categories: the TB-associated FM group (n = 77) and the EBLC group (n = 32), based on bronchoscopy and/or pathological findings. The selection of spectrum parameters was optimized with the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression analysis. The relationship between the spectrum parameters and conventional parameters was explored using Pearson's correlation. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to build spectrum model. The spectrum parameters in the spectrum model were replaced with their corresponding conventional parameters to build the conventional model. Diagnostic performances were evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curve analyses.

RESULTS

There was a moderate correlation between the parameters ㏒(L-AEFNIC) - ㏒(L-AEFC) (r= 0.419; p< 0.0001), ㏒(O-AEF40KeV) - ㏒(O-AEFC) (r= 0.475; p< 0.0001), [L-A-hydroxyapatite {HAP}(I)] - (L-U-CT) (r= 0.604; p< 0.0001), {arterial enhancement fraction (AEF) derived from normalized iodine concentration (NIC) of lymph node (L-AEFNIC), AEF derived from CT40KeV of bronchial obstruction (O-AEF40KeV), arterial-phase Hydroxyapatite (Iodine) concentration of lymph node [L-A-HAP(I)], AEF derived from conventional CT (AEFC), unenhanced CT value (U-CT)}. Spectrum model could improve diagnostic performances compared to conventional model (area under curve: 0.965 vs 0.916, p= 0.038).

CONCLUSION

There was a moderate correlation between spectrum parameters and conventional parameters. Integrating conventional CT features with spectrum parameters could further improve the ability in differentiating TB-associated FM from EBLC.

[Analysis of the differences in the characteristics of mesenchymal stem cells derived from jaw and long bones based on single-cell RNA-sequencing]

Objective: To study the whole bone marrow cellular composition of jaw and long bones, and further analyze the heterogeneity of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from these two tissue, aiming at exploring the differences in functional characteristics of bone MSCs from different lineage sources. Methods: The Seurat package of R language was used to analyze the mandibular and femur whole bone marrow single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) datasets in the literature, and the subpopulations were annotated by reference to the marker genes reported by previous studies. The differentially expressed genes between mandible-derived MSCs (M-MSCs) and femur-derived MSCs (F-MSCs) were calculated, and cell-cell communication analysis between M-MSCs or F-MSCs with other cell populations was performed. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were performed on up-regulated and down-regulated differentially expressed genes of M-MSCs, and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was performed on M-MSCs or F-MSCs. Results: cRNA-seq analysis showed that the mandible and femur had the same bone marrow cell composition, but there were differences in the proportion of specific cell populations. Also, there were significantly differentially expressed genes between M-MSCs and F-MSCs. In addition, cell-cell communication analysis revealed differences in numbers of ligand-receptor pairs between M-MSCs or F-MSCs with other cell populations. Furthermore, GO, KEGG and GSEA analysis showed that M-MSCs had higher extracellular matrix production potential than F-MSCs, but had lower ability to regulate other cells in the bone marrow, especially immune cells. Conclusions: M-MSCs and F-MSCs showed distinct differences in the gene expression pattern and up-regulated signaling pathways, which may be closely related to the developmental sources and functional characteristics of jaw and long bones.

[Effect of preemptive analgesia with ibuprofen on postoperative pain after mandibular third molar extraction: a randomized controlled trial]

Objective: To evaluate the impact of preemptive analgesia with ibuprofen on postoperative pain following the extraction of impacted mandibular third molars in a Chinese population, aiming to provide a clinical reference for its application. Methods: This multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel-group trial was conducted from April 2022 to October 2023 at the Capital Medical University School of Stomatology (40 cases), Beijing TianTan Hospital, Capital Medical University (22 cases), and Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University (20 cases). It included 82 patients with impacted mandibular third molars, with 41 in the ibuprofen group and 41 in the control group. Participants in the ibuprofen group received 300 mg of sustained-release ibuprofen capsules orally 15 min before surgery, while the control group received a placebo. Both groups were instructed to take sustained-release ibuprofen capsules as planned for 3 days post-surgery. Pain intensity was measured using the numerical rating scale at 30 min, 4 h, 6 h, 8 h, 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h after surgery, and the use of additional analgesic medication was recorded during days 4 to 6 postoperatively. Results: All 82 patients completed the study according to the protocol. No adverse events such as nausea, vomiting, or allergies were reported in either group during the trial. The ibuprofen group exhibited significantly lower pain scores at 4 h [2.0 (1.0, 4.0) vs. 4.0 (3.0, 5.0)] (Z=-3.73, P<0.001), 6 h [2.0 (1.0, 4.0) vs. 5.0(2.5, 6.0)] (Z=-3.38, P<0.001), and 8 h [2.0 (1.0, 4.0) vs. 5.0 (2.0, 6.0)] (Z=-2.11, P=0.035) postoperatively compared to the control group. There were no statistically significant differences in pain scores between the groups at 30 min, 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h postoperatively (P>0.05). Additionally, 11 out of 41 patients (26.8%) in the ibuprofen group and 23 out of 41 patients (56.1%) in the control group required extra analgesic medication between days 4 and 6 post-surgery, with the ibuprofen group taking significantly fewer additional pills [0.0 (0.0, 1.0) vs. 1.0 (0.0, 3.0)] (Z=-2.81, P=0.005). Conclusions: A pain management regimen involving 300 mg of oral sustained-release ibuprofen capsules administered 15 minutes before surgery and continued for 3 d postoperatively effectively reduces pain levels and the total amount of analgesic medication used after the extraction of impacted mandibular third molars. Considering its efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness, ibuprofen is recommended as a first-line drug for perioperative pain management, enhancing patient comfort during diagnosis and treatment in a feasible manner.

Highlights on Fluorine-Containing Drugs Approved by U.S. FDA in 2023

Fluorine continues to show its potential applications in drug discovery and development, as reflected by twelve drugs being fluorinated out of the fifty-five approved by the FDA in 2023. This concise review highlights the discovery of each of these fluorine-containing drugs in the past year, including its brand name, date of approval, composition, sponsors, indication, and mechanism of action. The relevant future trend is also briefly discussed.

[Clinical and prognostic analysis of opsoclonus-myoclonus-ataxia syndrome in children]

Objective: To summarize the clinical and prognostic features of children with opsoclonus-myoclonus-ataxia syndrome (OMAS). Methods: A total of 46 patients who met the diagnostic criteria of OMAS in the Department of Neurology, Beijing Children's Hospital from June 2015 to June 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Centralized online consultations or telephone visits were conducted between June and August 2023. The data of the children during hospitalization and follow-up were collected, including clinical manifestations, assistant examination, treatment and prognosis. According to the presence or absence of tumor, the patients were divided into two groups. The chi-square test or Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare the differences between the two groups. Univariate Logistic regression was used to analyze the factors related to OMAS recurrence and prognosis. Results: There were 46 patients, with 25 males and the onset age of 1.5 (1.2, 2.4) years. Twenty-six (57%) patients were diagnosed with neuroblastoma during the course of the disease, and no patients were categorized into the high-risk group. A total of 36 patients (78%) were followed up for≥6 months, and all of them were treated with first-line therapy with glucocorticoids, gammaglobulin and (or) adrenocorticotrophic hormone. Among the 36 patients, 9 patients (25%) were treated with second-line therapy for ≥3 months, including rituximab or cyclophosphamide, and 17 patients (47%) received chemotherapy related to neuroblastoma. At the follow-up time of 4.2 (2.2, 5.5) years, 10 patients (28%) had relapsed of OMAS. The Mitchell and Pike OMS rating scale score at the final follow-up was 0.5 (0, 2.0). Seven patients (19%) were mildly cognitively behind their peers and 6 patients (17%) were severely behind. Only 1 patient had tumor recurrence during follow-up. The history of vaccination or infection before onset was more common in the non-tumor group than in the tumor group (55%(11/20) vs. 23%(6/26), χ²=4.95, P=0.026). Myoclonus occurred more frequently in the non-tumor group (40%(8/20) vs. 4%(1/26), χ²=7.23, P=0.007) as the onset symptom. Univariate Logistic regression analysis showed that the tumor group had less recurrence (OR=0.19 (0.04-0.93), P=0.041). The use of second-line therapy or chemotherapy within 6 months of the disease course had a better prognosis (OR=11.64 (1.27-106.72), P=0.030). Conclusions: OMAS in children mostly starts in early childhood, and about half are combined with neuroblastoma. Neuroblastoma in combination with OMAS usually has a low risk classification and good prognosis. When comparing patients with OMAS with and without tumors, the latter have a more common infection or vaccination triggers, and myoclonus, as the onset symptom, is more common. Early addition of second-line therapy is associated with better prognosis in OMAS.

Fucoidan suppresses proliferation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition process via Wnt/β-catenin signalling in hemangioma

Hemangioma is a common benign tumour that usually occurs on the skin of the head and neck, particularly among infants. The current clinical treatment against hemangioma is surgery excision, however, application of drug is a safer and more economical therapy for children suffering from hemangioma. As a natural sulfated polysaccharide rich in brown algae, fucoidan is widely recognized for anti-tumour bioactivity and dosage safety in humans. This study aims to demonstrate the anti-tumour effect and underlying mechanism of fucoidan against hemangioma in vivo and in vitro. We investigated the effects of fucoidan by culturing hemangioma cells in vitro and treating BALB/c mice bearing with hemangioma. At first, we measured the cell proliferation and migration ability through in vitro experiments. Then, we tested the expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and Wnt/β-catenin pathway-related biomarkers by western blot and qPCR. Furthermore, we applied β-catenin-specific inhibitor, XAV939, to determine whether fucoidan suppressed EMT via the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in hemangioma cells. In vivo experiments, we applied oral gavage of fucoidan to treat EOMA-bearing mice, along with evaluating the safety and efficacy of fucoidan. We found that fucoidan remarkably inhibits the proliferation and EMT ability of hemangioma cells, which is dependent on the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. These results suggest that fucoidan exhibits tumour inhibitory effect on aggressive hemangioma via regulating the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway both in vitro and in vivo, providing a new potent drug candidate for treating hemangioma.

[Level and health evaluation of rare earth elements in human blood and hair in the mining areas in Northwest Hubei]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the content of rare earth elements(REs)in blood and hair of residents in a RE mining area in Northwest Hubei, and evaluate the impact of REs on the health status of local residents.

METHODS

A total of 191 residents from the core area of RE mining areas and 186 residents from non RE mining areas, aged 20-69, were selected. The content of REs in the blood and hair of the survey subjects was measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and compared with existing literature values. At the same time, blood tests and questionnaire surveys will be conducted on the health status of residents to examine whether human RE enrichment can lead to endemic diseases.

RESULTS

The average total content of REs in the blood of residents in the mining area was 60.22 ng/mL, which was 3.35 times that of the control area; The average total content of REs in hair was 1197.91 ng/g, which was 6.32 times higher than the control area. As age increasing, the abundance of REs in the blood and hair of both men and women in mining areas increased. The proportion of Yttrium and Scandium in the blood and hair were much higher than that in the soil. Compared to hair, Yttrium and Scandium were more easily enriched in the blood. There was no significant difference in the probability of fatty liver, hepatitis B, hypoglycemia, hypotension, hypertension and heart disease and the average life span between residents in RE mining areas and those in the control area.

CONCLUSION

The high daily average dietary intake of REs in residents leads to a relatively large accumulation of REs in human blood and hair, but no significant and substantial human health damage has been found at present.

Identifying the core residual symptom in patients with major depressive disorder using network analysis and illustrating its association with prognosis: A study based on the national cohorts in China

OBJECTIVE

To identify the core residual symptom of MDD and assess its relationship with patients' long-term outcomes.

METHOD

All patients were administered antidepressants during the acute phase and treated continuously. The 521 patients remitted at month 6 of a multicenter prospective project were included. Remission was defined as a Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptoms-Self-Report total score of ≤5. Functional impairments were measured with the Sheehan Disability Scale, quality of life with the Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire - short form, and family burden with the Family Burden Scale of Disease. Visits were scheduled at baseline, weeks 2, 8, 12, and month 6.

RESULTS

Difficulty with concentration/decision making was the core residual symptom of MDD, determined with the centrality measure of network analysis. It was positively associated with functional impairments and family burden (r = 0.35, P < 0.01 and r = 0.31, P < 0.01, respectively) and negatively associated with life satisfaction (r = -0.29, P < 0.01). The exhibition of this residual symptom was associated with a family history of psychiatric disorders (OR = 2.610 [1.242-5.485]).

CONCLUSIONS

The core residual symptom of MDD, difficulty with concentration/decision making, is associated with poorer social functioning, heavier family burden, and lower life satisfaction. Early detection and intervention of this symptom may be beneficial.

CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION NUMBER

(Chinese Clinical Trials.gov identifier) ChiCTR-OOC-17012566 and ChiCTR-INR-17012574.

Multi-institutional study of 'Sandwich treatment' for motor area large brain metastases (LBM) with diameter over 3 cm

BACKGROUND

The objective of the present study was to explore the effectiveness and safety of 'Sandwich treatment' strategy for large brain metastases (LBM) with diameter over 3 cm (minimum volume >= 15 cm3) located in motor area.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients from four gamma knife center that received 'Sandwich treatment' were retrospectively studied from January 2016 to March 2023. The strategy was one-week treatment course including 2 stages of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) and using bevacizumab once during SRS gap. The tumor volume and peri-tumor edema changes were analyzed before and after 'Sandwich treatment'. Manual muscle testing (MMT) score and Barthel Index (BI) score were used to evaluate the changes of patients' movement and physical strength rehabilitation. The patients' overall survival (OS) and tumor local control (TLC) rate was calculated. Cox regression model was used to analyze the risk factors that related to TLC.

RESULTS

61 patients with 72 lesions received the 'Sandwich treatment'. The median prescription dose was 13.0 Gy and 12.5 Gy at the first- and second-stage SRS. The mean tumor volume at the time of 'Sandwich treatment' and 3 months later was 20.1 cm3 and 12.3, respectively (P < 0.01). The mean peri-tumor edema volume at the first- and second-stage SRS was 12.6 cm3 and 5.2 cm3, respectively (P < 0.01). Patients' median MMT score improved from 6 at the beginning to 8 at the end of 'Sandwich treatment' (P < 0.01), BI score was also greatly improved from 45 at the time of 'Sandwich treatment' to 95 after 3 months (P < 0.01). Patients' median OS was 14.0 months, and the 3, 6, 12 months OS rate was 92.0%, 86.0% and 66.0%, respectively. The TLC rate at 3, 6, 12 months was 98.4%, 93.4%, and 85.3%, respectively. Patients with lung cancer had lower risk of tumor relapse. The cumulative incidence of patient's hemorrhage and radiation necrosis was 4.92% (3/61) and 13.11% (8/61) after 'Sandwich treatment'.

CONCLUSIONS

'Sandwich treatment' strategy is safe and effective for LBM located in motor area. The strategy could rapidly improve the patients' movement and enhance their physical strength rehabilitation.

A biomimetic nanocarrier facilitates glucose consumption and reactive oxide species accumulation in enzyme therapy for colorectal cancer

Glucose oxidase (GOx)-based enzyme therapeutics are potential alternatives for colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment via glucose consumption and accumulation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Given that H2O2 can be eliminated by cytoprotective autophagy, autophagy inhibitors that can interrupt autolysosome-induced H2O2 elimination are promising combination drugs of GOx. Here, we developed a multifunctional biomimetic nanocarrier for effective co-delivery of an autophagy inhibitor-chloroquine phosphate (CQP) and GOx to exert their synergistic effect by irreversibly upregulating intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Poly (D, l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) were used to encapsulate both GOx and CQP using a W/O/W multi-emulsion method. Calcium phosphate (CaP) was used to "fix" CQP to GOx in the internal water phase, where it served as a pH-sensitive unit to facilitate intracellular drug release. Folic acid-modified red blood cell membranes (FR) were used to camouflage the GOx/CQP/CaP encapsulated PLGA NPs (referred to as PLGA/GCC@FR). In an AOM/DSS-induced CRC mouse model, PLGA/GCC@FR exhibited improved antitumor effects, in which the number of tumor nodes were only a quarter of that in the free drug combination group. The enhanced therapeutic effects of PLGA/GCC@FR were attributed to the prolonged tumor retention which was verified by both dynamic in vivo imaging and drug biodistribution. This multifunctional biomimetic nanocarrier facilitated combined enzyme therapeutics by depleting glucose and augmenting intracellular ROS levels in tumor cells, which exerted a synergistic inhibitory effect on tumor growth. Therefore, this study proposed a novel strategy for the enhancement of combined enzyme therapeutics, which provided a promising method for effective CRC treatment.

Superoxide Dismutase Catalyzed Size-Adjustable Selenium Nanoparticles in Saccharomyces boulardii

Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) are important and safe food and feed additives that can be used for dietary supplementation. In this study, a mutagenic strain of Saccharomyces boulardii was employed to obtain biologically synthesized SeNPs (BioSeNPs) with the desired particle size by controlling the dosage and duration of sodium selenite addition, and the average particle size achieved was 55.8 nm with protease A encapsulation. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that increased expression of superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) in the mutant strain effectively promoted the synthesis of BioSeNPs and the formation of smaller nanoparticles. Under sodium selenite stress, the mutant strain exhibited significantly increased expression of glutathione peroxidase 2 (GPx2), which was significantly greater in the mutant strain than in the wild type, facilitating the synthesis of glutathione selenol and providing abundant substrates for the production of BioSeNPs. Furthermore, based on the experimental results and transcriptomic analysis of relevant genes such as sod1, gpx2, the thioredoxin reductase 1 gene (trr1) and the thioredoxin reductase 2 gene (trr2), a yeast model for the size-controlled synthesis of BioSeNPs was constructed. This study provides an important theoretical and practical foundation for the green synthesis of controllable-sized BioSeNPs or other metal nanoparticles with potential applications in the fields of food, feed, and biomedicine.

Design and Study of Machine Tools for the Fly-Cutting of Ceramic-Copper Substrates

Ceramic-copper substrates, as high-power, load-bearing components, are widely used in new energy vehicles, electric locomotives, high-energy lasers, integrated circuits, and other fields. The service length will depend on the substrate's copper-coated surface quality, which frequently achieved by utilising an abrasive strip polishing procedure on the substrate's copper-coated surface. Precision diamond fly-cutting processing machine tools were made because of the low processing accuracy and inability to match the production line's efficiency. An analysis of the fly-cutting machining principle and the structural makeup of the ceramic-copper substrate is the first step in creating a roughness prediction model based on a tool tip trajectory. This model demonstrates that a shift in the tool tip trajectory due to spindle runout error directly impacts the machined surface's roughness. The device's structural optimisation design is derived from the above analyses and implemented using finite element software. Modal and harmonic response analysis validated the machine's gantry symmetrical structural layout, a parametric variable optimisation design optimised the machine tool's overall dimensions, and simulation validated the fly-cutterring's constituent parts. Enhancing the machine tool's stability and motion accuracy requires using the LK-G5000 laser sensor to measure the guideway's straightness. The result verified the machine tool's design index, with the Z- and Y-axes' straightness being better than 2.42 μm/800 mm and 2.32 μm/200 mm, respectively. Ultimately, the device's machining accuracy was confirmed. Experiments with flying-cut machining on a 190 × 140 mm ceramic-copper substrate yielded a roughness of Sa9.058 nm. According to the experimental results, the developed machine tool can fulfil the design specifications.

Protective Effect of Black Rice Cyanidin-3-Glucoside on Testicular Damage in STZ-Induced Type 1 Diabetic Rats

Diabetic testicular damage is quite a common and significant complication in diabetic men, which could result in infertility. The natural fertility rate of type 1 diabetes men is only 50% because of testicular damage. This research first aimed to explore the intervention effect of C3G on testicular tissue damage induced by diabetes. Here, a streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetic rat model was established, and then C3G was administered. After 8 weeks of C3G supplementation, the symptoms of diabetes (e.g., high blood glucose, lower body weight, polydipsia, polyphagia) were relieved, and at the same time that sperm motility and viability increased, sperm abnormality decreased in C3G-treated diabetic rats. Furthermore, the pathological structure of testis was restored; the fibrosis of the testicular interstitial tissue was inhibited; and the LH, FSH, and testosterone levels were all increased in the C3G-treated groups. Testicular oxidative stress was relieved; serum and testicular inflammatory cytokines levels were significantly decreased in C3G-treated groups; levels of Bax, Caspase-3, TGF-β1 and Smad2/3 protein in testis decreased; and the level of Bcl-2 was up-regulated in the C3G-treated groups. A possible mechanism might be that C3G improved antioxidant capacity, relieved oxidative stress, increased anti-inflammatory cytokine expression, and inhibited the apoptosis of spermatogenic cells and testicular fibrosis, thus promoting the production of testosterone and repair of testicular function. In conclusion, this study is the first to reveal that testicular damage could be mitigated by C3G in type 1 diabetic rats. Our results provide a theoretical basis for the application of C3G in male reproductive injury caused by diabetes.

[Prevalence and risk factors of sarcopenia after radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer]

Objective: To investigate the prevalence and risk factors of sarcopenia in patients following radical gastrectomy with the aim of guiding clinical decisions. Methods: This was a retrospective observational study of data of patients who had undergone radical gastrectomy between June 2021 and June 2022 at the Department of General Surgery, First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital. Participants were reviewed 9-12 months after surgery. Inclusion criteria were as follows: (1) radical gastrectomy with a postoperative pathological diagnosis of primary gastric cancer; (2) no invasion of neighboring organs, peritoneal dissemination, or distant metastasis confirmed intra- or postoperatively; (3) availability of complete clinical data, including abdominal enhanced computed tomography and pertinent blood laboratory tests 9-12 after surgery. Exclusion criteria were as follows: (1) age <18 years; (2) presence of gastric stump cancer or previous gastrectomy; (3) history of or current other primary tumors within the past 5 years; (4) preoperative diagnosis of sarcopenia (skeletal muscle index [SMI) ≤52.4 cm²/m² for men, SMI ≤38.5 cm²/m² for women). The primary focus of the study was to investigate development of postoperative sarcopenia in the study cohort. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to identify the factors associated with development of sarcopenia after radical gastrectomy. Results: The study cohort comprised 373 patients of average age of 57.1±12.3 years, comprising 292 (78.3%) men and 81 (21.7%) women. Postoperative sarcopenia was detected in 81 (21.7%) patients in the entire cohort. The SMI for the entire group was (41.79±7.70) cm2/m2: (46.40±5.03) cm2/m2 for men and (33.52±3.63) cm2/m2 for women. According to multivariate logistic regression analysis, age ≥60 years (OR=2.170, 95%CI: 1.175-4.007, P=0.013), high literacy (OR=2.512, 95%CI: 1.238-5.093, P=0.011), poor exercise habits (OR=3.263, 95%CI: 1.648-6.458, P=0.001), development of hypoproteinemia (OR=2.312, 95%CI: 1.088-4.913, P=0.029), development of hypertension (OR=2.169, 95%CI: 1.180-3.984, P=0.013), and total gastrectomy (OR=2.444, 95%CI:1.214-4.013,P=0.012) were independent risk factors for postoperative sarcopenia in post-gastrectomy patients who had had gastric cancer (P<0.05). Conclusion: Development of sarcopenia following radical gastrectomy demands attention. Older age, higher education, poor exercise habits, hypoproteinemia, hypertension, and total gastrectomy are risk factors for its development post-radical gastrectomy.

Preparation of Yeast Extract from Brewer's Yeast Waste and Its Potential Application as a Medium Constituent

Yeast extract serves as a source of nutritional components essential for human dietary requirements, feed formulations, and the vital growth factors and nutrients necessary for microorganisms. However, the production cost of yeast extract using cultivated active dry yeast is relatively high. This study aims to utilize the autolysis of discarded yeast post beer brewing to produce yeast extract. The concentration, temperature, pH, and time conditions are systematically optimized. It reveals that the yield of amino nitrogen and solids in the extract was increased by 3.3% and 20.9% under the optimized conditions (1.2% wall-breaking enzyme, 1% yeast extract enzyme, and a hydrolysis time of 24 h) than that of the documented 4.03% and 69.05%. Additionally, a comparative analysis with commercially available yeast powder demonstrates that the yeast extract derived from this study adequately fulfills the nutritional requirements for microbial growth. Hence, the utilization of discarded beer yeast presents an opportunity for the valuable reclamation of waste yeast, showcasing promising potential applications.

Protection against myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury in mice by 3-caffeoylquinic acid isomers isolated from Saxifraga tangutica

The development of ischemic heart disease (IHD) involves a variety of pathophysiological responses, such as mitochondrial dysfunction. Many compounds with antioxidant activity isolated from natural products have been shown to have significant effects on the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. However, little is known about the palliative effects of 3-caffeoylquinic acid isomers isolated from Saxifraga tangutica (S. tangutica) on myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (MIRI). Three isomers of 3-caffeoylquinic acid were isolated from S. tangutica and identified as neochlorogenic acid (Fr2-4-1-1, 18.5 mg), chlorogenic acid (Fr2-5-1-1, 81.7 mg) and cryptochlorogenic acid (Fr2-5-2-1, 15.0 mg) using medium-pressure liquid chromatography-high-pressure two-dimensional liquid chromatography. An in vitro DPPH assay showed that cryptochlorogenic acid (CCGA), neochlorogenic acid (NCGA) and chlorogenic acid (CGA) (in order of activity from strongest to weakest) possessed superior antioxidant activity. Langendorff's in vitro model was utilized to explore the protective effects of 3 caffeoylquinic acid isomers against MIRI. The ex vivo MIRI assay demonstrated that CCGA significantly improved hemodynamic function (P < 0.05), hemodynamic function-related indices (LVDP, RPP, +dP/dt and -dP/dt), and cell morphology in I/R myocardium tissues. In addition, the results of western blot analysis showed that mitochondrial biogenesis was significantly increased in I/R myocardial tissues after treatment with CCGA. In contrast, the activities of CGA and NCGA were lower. This is the first demonstration of efficient preparative isolation of 3-caffeoylquinic acid isomers (CGA, NCGA and CCGA) from S. tangutica. CCGA may be a promising approach for the treatment of cardiac I/R injury, especially for the regulation of mitochondrial biogenesis after MIRI.

Differences in proximal and intimacy-related defense mechanisms among patients with cancer in different psychological stages of dying

Purpose

This study measured three of the psychological stages of dying in patients with cancer and explored the differences in proximal and intimacy-related defense mechanisms at each stage.

Patients and methods

A total of 220 cancer patients were recruited for this study; 168 patients met the inclusion criteria and were included in the data analysis. The participants were divided into three groups using the "Death Attitudes Questionnaire Revised" (1994) and then completed the Death-Thought Accessibility Test, Self-Control Questionnaire, Rumination Reflection Questionnaire, Attachment Type Test, Intimacy Test, External Control Test, and Positive and Negative Affect Scale.

Results

In the death avoidance stage, which represents a defense stage without cognitive processes, patients are in an irrational state with the highest level of self-control and the lowest level of external control; they tend to prefer close relationships with many people while experiencing high levels of fear and depression. In the bargaining stage, which represents a biased cognitive defense stage, the level of rationality increases, the level of fear and depression decreases, and patients tend to prefer relationships with many people that do not involve intimacy. In the neutral death acceptance stage, which represents a defense stage without cognitive bias, self-control is lowest, external control is highest, patients tend to prefer intimate relationships with a few people, and experience the lowest levels of fear and depression.

Conclusion

Three psychological stages of death exist in cancer patients, with differences in proximal and intimacy-related defense mechanisms in each stage. The findings have theoretical and practical implications for psychological interventions for cancer patients.

Cooperative Cu/azodiformate system-catalyzed allylic C-H amination of unactivated internal alkenes directed by aminoquinoline

Aliphatic allylic amines are common in natural products and pharmaceuticals. The oxidative intermolecular amination of C(sp3)-H bonds represents one of the most straightforward strategies to construct these motifs. However, the utilization of widely internal alkenes with amines in this transformation remains a synthetic challenge due to the inefficient coordination of metals to internal alkenes and excessive coordination with aliphatic and aromatic amines, resulting in decreasing the reactivity of the catalyst. Here, we present a regioselective Cu-catalyzed oxidative allylic C(sp3)-H amination of internal olefins with azodiformates to these problems. A removable bidentate directing group is used to control the regiochemistry and stabilize the π-allyl-metal intermediate. Noteworthy is the dual role of azodiformates as both a nitrogen source and an electrophilic oxidant for the allylic C-H activation. This protocol features simple conditions, remarkable scope and functional group tolerance as evidenced by >40 examples and exhibits high regioselectivity and excellent E/Z selectivity.

Solvation Structure and Derived Interphase Tuning for High-Voltage Ni-Rich Lithium Metal Batteries with High Safety Using Gem-Difluorinated Ionic Liquid Based Dual-Salt Electrolytes

Stabilizing electrolytes for high-voltage lithium metal batteries (LMBs) is crucial yet challenging, as they need to ensure stability against both Li anodes and high-voltage cathodes (above 4.5 V versus Li/Li+ ), addressing issues like poor cycling and thermal runaway. Herein, a novel gem-difluorinated skeleton of ionic liquid (IL) is designed and synthesized, and its non-flammable electrolytes successfully overcome aforementioned challenges. By creatively using dual salts, fluorinated ionic liquid and dimethyl carbonate as a co-solvent, the solvation structure of Li+ ions is efficiently controlled through electrostatic and weak interactions that are well unveiled and illuminated via nuclear magnetic resonance spectra. The as-prepared electrolytes exhibit high security avoiding thermal runaway and show excellent compatibility with high-voltage cathodes. Besides, the solvation structure derives a robust and stable F-rich interphase, resulting in high reversibility and Li-dendrite prevention. LiNi0.6 Co0.2 Mn0.2 O2 /Li LMBs (4.5 V) demonstrate excellent long-term stability with a high average Coulombic efficiency (CE) of at least 99.99 % and a good capacity retention of 90.4 % over 300 cycles, even can work at a higher voltage of 4.7 V. Furthermore, the ultrahigh Ni-rich LiNi0.88 Co0.09 Mn0.03 O2 /Li system also delivers excellent electrochemical performance, highlighting the significance of fluorinated IL-based electrolyte design and enhanced interphasial chemistry in improving battery performance.

Single-atom catalysts supported on two-dimensional tetragonal transition metal chalcogenides for hydrogen and oxygen evolution

Single-atom catalysts (SACs) offer maximum metal atom utilization and high catalytic performance. Transition metal atoms on two-dimensional (2D) materials are effective for improving electrocatalytic performance. However, few studies exist on SACs supported on 2D tetragonal transition metal chalcogenides (TMX) for OER and HER. We report a detailed theoretical study using DFT calculations on SACs supported on TMX monolayers, denoted as TMA@TMBX. Our findings demonstrate that seven TMA@TMBX electrocatalysts surpass IrO2 (ηOER = 0.56 V), with four TMA@TMBX exhibiting a reduced OER overpotential compared to RuO2 (ηOER = 0.42 V). Additionally, four TMA@TMBX exhibit higher HER performance than Pt (111) (ηHER = 0.10 V). We ultimately identified three SACs with high bifunctional HER/OER activity: Co@NiSe, Rh@NiTe, and Co@NiS. This study on TMA@TMBX provides insights for enhancing the HER and OER activities of SACs supported on 2D materials, which could have significant implications in clean and renewable energy.