[Retracted] Fangchinoline suppresses growth and metastasis of melanoma cells by inhibiting the phosphorylation of FAK

Following the publication of this paper, it was drawn to the Editor's attention by a concerned reader that certain of the Transwell migration and invasion assay data shown in Fig. 3C and D on p. 67 were strikingly similar to data appearing in different form in another pair of articles written by different authors at different research institutes, one of which (subsequently retracted) had already been published elsewhere prior to the submission of this paper to Oncology Reports, with the other having been submitted for publication at around the same time. In addition, duplications of data were identified within Fig. 3C and D, such that data which had been used to represent the results from differently performed experiments had apparently been derived from the same original source. Given that the abovementioned data had already apparently been published previously, the Editor of Oncology Reports has decided that this paper should be retracted from the Journal. After having been in contact with the authors, they accepted the decision to retract the paper. The Editor apologizes to the readership for any inconvenience caused. [Oncology Reports 38: 63‑70, 2017; DOI: 10.3892/or.2017.5678].

Engineered CRISPR-Cas12a for higher-order combinatorial chromatin perturbations

Multiplexed genetic perturbations are critical for testing functional interactions among coding or non-coding genetic elements. Compared to double-stranded DNA cutting, repressive chromatin formation using CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) avoids genotoxicity and is more effective for perturbing non-coding regulatory elements in pooled assays. However, current CRISPRi pooled screening approaches are limited to targeting one to three genomic sites per cell. We engineer an Acidaminococcus Cas12a (AsCas12a) variant, multiplexed transcriptional interference AsCas12a (multiAsCas12a), that incorporates R1226A, a mutation that stabilizes the ribonucleoprotein-DNA complex via DNA nicking. The multiAsCas12a-KRAB fusion improves CRISPRi activity over DNase-dead AsCas12a-KRAB fusions, often rescuing the activities of lentivirally delivered CRISPR RNAs (crRNA) that are inactive when used with the latter. multiAsCas12a-KRAB supports CRISPRi using 6-plex crRNA arrays in high-throughput pooled screens. Using multiAsCas12a-KRAB, we discover enhancer elements and dissect the combinatorial function of cis-regulatory elements in human cells. These results instantiate a group testing framework for efficiently surveying numerous combinations of chromatin perturbations for biological discovery and engineering.

Simulation and parameter determination of the net sorption of phenanthrene by sediment particles

The distribution of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the ocean is affected by the sorption-desorption process of sediment particles. This process is determined by the concentration of PAHs in seawater, water temperature, and organic matter content of sediment particles. Quantitative relationships between the net sorption rates (=the difference of sorption and desorption rates) and these factors have not been established yet and used in PAH transport models. In this study, phenanthrene was chosen as the representative of PAHs. Three groups of experimental data were collected to address the dependence of the net sorption processes on the initial concentration, water temperature, and organic carbon content representing organic matter content. One-site and two-compartment mass-transfer models were tested to represent the experimental data using various parameters. The results showed that the two-compartment mass-transfer model performed better than the one-site mass-transfer model. The parameters of the two-compartment mass-transfer model include the sorption rate coefficients kafand kas (L g-1 min-1), and the desorption rate coefficients kdf and kds (min-1). The parameters at different temperatures and organic carbon contents were obtained by numerical simulations. Linear relationships were obtained between the parameters and water temperature, as well as organic carbon content. kaf, kas and kdf decreased linearly, while kds increased linearly with temperature. kaf, kas and kdf increased linearly, while kds decreased linearly with organic carbon content. The r2 values between the simulation results based on the relationships and the experimental results reached 0.96-0.99, which supports the application of the model to simulate sorption-desorption processes at different water temperatures and organic carbon contents in a realistic ocean.

Effect of hydrodynamic and ecosystem conditions on persistent organic pollutant temporal-spatial variations in the Yellow Sea

Coastal seas are important pools of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) discharged from land. Considering the complex conditions in coastal seas and various biochemical features of POPs, special temporal-spatial variations in POPs have been reported. To understand these variations, we developed a three-dimensional hydrodynamic-ecosystem-POP coupled model and applied it to the Yellow Sea. We selected two POP species (polychlorinated biphenyl congener 153 (PCB-153) and decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209)), which have different biochemical properties, as target materials. The dissolved PCB-153 simulated concentration was high in late spring and low in autumn, whereas that of BDE-209 was high in summer and low in winter. Both PCB-153 and BDE-209 showed high particle-bound concentrations in early spring. In summer, dissolved PCB-153 accumulated at the sea bottom, whereas dissolved BDE-209 accumulated at the sea surface. Seasonal and spatial variation differences in the two POPs are likely caused by greater Henry's Law Constant (H') and bioconcentration factor (BCF) of PCB-153 than that of BDE-209, which leads to higher volatilization and stronger absorption by the particles for PCB-153 than BDE-209. As a component of such differences, the "biological pump" of PCB-153 in the central Yellow Sea is more apparent than that of BDE-209.

Blood transfusion is correlated with elevated adult all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality in the United States: NHANES 1999 to 2018 population-based matched propensity score study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The association of blood transfusion with an increase in medium- and short-term mortality in specific populations has been confirmed. However, the correlation between blood transfusion and long-term mortality in the general population remains unclear. This cohort study evaluated the correlation between blood transfusion and overall and cause-specific mortality in the general American adult population.

METHODS

The authors utilized 10 sets of 2-year cycle data (1999-2018) from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey on the outcomes of adults who did and did not receive blood transfusions. Propensity score-matching (1:1) was performed based on age, sex, race, education level, marital status, poverty-income ratio, arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease, cancer, anemia, hypertension, and diabetes status. After controlling for demographic characteristics and clinical risk factors, Cox regression analysis was performed to evaluate the correlation between blood transfusion and all-cause and cause-specific mortality.

RESULTS

The study included 48,004 adult participants. The risk of all-cause mortality increased by 101 % with blood transfusion, and the risk of cardiovascular mortality increased by 165 %. After propensity score-matching, 6,116 pairs of cases were retained, and the risk of all-cause mortality increased by 84 % with blood transfusion, and the risk of cardiovascular mortality increased by 137 %. The sensitivity analysis results were robust.

CONCLUSIONS

In the general American population, blood transfusion significantly impacts long-term all-cause and cardiovascular mortality and may be an unacknowledged risk factor for death. Thus, the effective management of blood transfusion in the general population may be beneficial.

A disinhibitory microcircuit of the orbitofrontal cortex mediates cocaine preference in mice

Both clinical and animal studies showed that the impaired functions of the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) underlie the compulsive drug-seeking behavior of drug addiction. However, the functional changes of the microcircuit in the OFC and the underlying molecular mechanisms in drug addiction remain elusive, and little is known for whether microcircuits in the OFC contributed to drug addiction-related behaviors. Utilizing the cocaine-induced conditioned-place preference model, we found that the malfunction of the microcircuit led to disinhibition in the OFC after cocaine withdrawal. We further showed that enhanced Somatostatin-Parvalbumin (SST-PV) inhibitory synapse strength changed microcircuit function, and SST and PV inhibitory neurons showed opposite contributions to the drug addiction-related behavior of mice. Brevican of the perineuronal nets of PV neurons regulated SST-PV synapse strength, and the knockdown of Brevican alleviated cocaine preference. These results reveal a novel molecular mechanism of the regulation of microcircuit function and a novel circuit mechanism of the OFC in gating cocaine preference.

Study on load allocation of land-based total nitrogen in the Bohai Sea

Total nitrogen (TN) is one of the terrigenous pollutants in the Bohai Sea. A reasonable releasing scheme can effectively improve the seawater quality. Based on the observed TN concentrations and the national pollution control requirements, the TN load ratios of four major rivers around the Bohai Sea are adjusted in multiple levels within the range of 50 %-200 % in the frame of total control. Then, a pollutant transport model is used to evaluate each load allocation scheme by calculating the area of different seawater qualities. The optimum scheme is loads of the Yellow River and Luan River are set to 50 % and 200 % of the levels in 2018, and thus the area of heavily polluted seawater can be decreased by 33.14 %. Additionally, the reasonable TN reduction amounts of four major rivers in 2018-2020 are calculated according to the optimum scheme, which can be provided as a decision-making basis of marine managements.

Efficacy and safety of psychedelics for the treatment of mental disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis

We aim to systematically review and meta-analyze the effectiveness and safety of psychedelics [psilocybin, ayahuasca (active component DMT), LSD and MDMA] in treating symptoms of various mental disorders. Web of Science, Embase, EBSCO, and PubMed were searched up to February 2024 and 126 articles were finally included. Results showed that psilocybin has the largest number of articles on treating mood disorders (N = 28), followed by ayahuasca (N = 7) and LSD (N = 6). Overall, psychedelics have therapeutic effects on mental disorders such as depression and anxiety. Specifically, psilocybin (Hedges' g = -1.49, 95% CI [-1.67, -1.30]) showed the strongest therapeutic effect among four psychedelics, followed by ayahuasca (Hedges' g = -1.34, 95% CI [-1.86, -0.82]), MDMA (Hedges' g = -0.83, 95% CI [-1.33, -0.32]), and LSD (Hedges' g = -0.65, 95% CI [-1.03, -0.27]). A small amount of evidence also supports psychedelics improving tobacco addiction, eating disorders, sleep disorders, borderline personality disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and body dysmorphic disorder. The most common adverse event with psychedelics was headache. Nearly a third of the articles reported that no participants reported lasting adverse effects. Our analyses suggest that psychedelics reduce negative mood, and have potential efficacy in other mental disorders, such as substance-use disorders and PTSD.

Expression of microRNAs during apheresis platelet storage up to day 14 in a blood bank in China

BACKGROUND

Storage affects platelet microRNAs (miRNAs); discussing miRNA expression differences in apheresis platelets after varied storage periods is important for developing platelet quality measurement tools and identifying platelet storage lesion biomarkers. To our knowledge, the difference of MicroRNA expression profile in up to 14-day storage apheresis platelets has less relevant reports.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Apheresis platelet bags from three donors were collected, divided into six groups, and stored for 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, and 14 days. miRNA expression was determined using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Differentially expressed miRNAs were screened using RNA sequencing.

RESULTS

MiRNA expression profiles showed that the six treatment groups generally highly expressed hsa-let-7 family, hsa-miR-26a-5p, hsa-miR-92a-3p, hsa-miR-199, and hsa-miR-103a-3p. A total of 15 miRNAs in the top 10 known miRNAs of the six groups were highly expressed. Time series analyses for the trend classification of 944 differentially expressed miRNAs indicated 43 genes with 14 trend changes. Hsa-miR-223-3p, hsa-miR-181a-5p, hsa-miR-4433b-5p, hsa-miR-22-3p, and hsa-miR-30c-5p were selected, and the qRT-PCR results also showed that they were significantly reduced under standard blood bank condition.

DISCUSSION

Expression of microRNAs lays the foundation for further research on apheresis platelet storage lesions. Based on our results from information analysis and miRNA target gene prediction, we suggest hsa-miR-30c-5p as a biomarker of the quality and viability of apheresis platelets during storage in blood banks.

Conductance Quantization in 2D Semi-Metallic Transition Metal Dichalcogenides

Conductance quantization of 2D materials is significant for understanding the charge transport at the atomic scale, which provides a platform to manipulate the quantum states, showing promising applications for nanoelectronics and memristors. However, the conventional methods for investigating conductance quantization are only applicable to materials consisting of one element, such as metal and graphene. The experimental observation of conductance quantization in transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) with complex compositions and structures remains a challenge. To address this issue, an approach is proposed to characterize the charge transport across a single atom in TMDCs by integrating in situ synthesized 1T'-WTe2 electrodes with scanning tunneling microscope break junction (STM-BJ) technique. The quantized conductance of 1T'-WTe2 is measured for the first time, and the quantum states can be modulated by stretching speed and solvent. Combined with theoretical calculations, the evolution of quantized and corresponding configurations during the break junction process is demonstrated. This work provides a facile and reliable avenue to characterize and modulate conductance quantization of 2D materials, intensively expanding the research scope of quantum effects in diverse materials.

Prognostic and Immunotherapeutic Predictive Value of CAD Gene in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Integrated Bioinformatics and Experimental Analysis

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common type of cancer that ranks first in cancer-associated death worldwide. Carbamoyl-phosphate synthetase 2, aspartate transcarbamylase, and dihydroorotase (CAD) are the key components of the pyrimidine pathway, which promotes cancer development. However, the function of CAD in HCC needs to be clarified. In this study, the clinical and transcriptome data of 424 TCGA-derived HCC cases were analyzed. The results demonstrated that high CAD expression was associated with poor prognosis in HCC patients. The effect of CAD on HCC was then investigated comprehensively using GO annotation analysis, KEGG enrichment analysis, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA), and CIBERSORT algorithm. The results showed that CAD expression was correlated with immune checkpoint inhibitors and immune cell infiltration. In addition, low CAD levels in HCC patients predicted increased sensitivity to anti-CTLA4 and PD1, while HCC patients with high CAD expression exhibited high sensitivity to chemotherapeutic and molecular-targeted agents, including gemcitabine, paclitaxel, and sorafenib. Finally, the results from clinical sample suggested that CAD expression increased remarkably in HCC compared with non-cancerous tissues. Loss of function experiments demonstrated that CAD knockdown could significantly inhibit HCC cell growth and migration both in vitro and in vivo. Collectively, the results indicated that CAD is a potential oncogene during HCC metastasis and progression. Therefore, CAD is recommended as a candidate marker and target for HCC prediction and treatment.

PD-1 regulation in immune homeostasis and immunotherapy

Harnessing the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)/programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) axis is pivotal in autoimmunity and cancer immunotherapy. PD-1 receptors on immune cells engage with one of its ligands, PD-L1 or PD-L2, expressed on antigen-presenting cells or tumor cells, driving T-cell dysfunction and tumor immune escape. Thus, targeting PD-1/PD-L1 revitalizes cytotoxic T cells for cancer elimination. However, a majority of cancer patients don't respond to PD-1/PD-L1 blockade, and the underlying mechanisms remain partially understood. Recent studies have revealed that PD-1 expression levels or modifications impact the effectiveness of anti-PD-1/PD-L1 treatments. Therefore, understanding the molecular mechanisms governing PD-1 expression and modifications is crucial for innovating therapeutic strategies to enhance the efficacy of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibition. This article presents a comprehensive overview of advancements in PD-1 regulation and highlights their potential in modulating immune homeostasis and cancer immunotherapy, aiming to refine clinical outcomes.

Targeting METTL3 reprograms the tumor microenvironment to improve cancer immunotherapy

The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a heterogeneous ecosystem containing cancer cells, immune cells, stromal cells, cytokines, and chemokines which together govern tumor progression and response to immunotherapies. Methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3), a core catalytic subunit for RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification, plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological and pathological processes. Whether and how METTL3 regulates the TME and anti-tumor immunity in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remain poorly understood. Here, we report that METTL3 elevates expression of pro-tumorigenic chemokines including CXCL1, CXCL5, and CCL20, and destabilizes PD-L1 mRNA in an m6A-dependent manner, thereby shaping a non-inflamed TME. Thus, inhibiting METTL3 reprograms a more inflamed TME that renders anti-PD-1 therapy more effective in several murine lung tumor models. Clinically, NSCLC patients who exhibit low-METTL3 expression have a better prognosis when receiving anti-PD-1 therapy. Collectively, our study highlights targeting METTL3 as a promising strategy to improve immunotherapy in NSCLC patients.

USP8-governed GPX4 homeostasis orchestrates ferroptosis and cancer immunotherapy

Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent type of regulated cell death resulting from extensive lipid peroxidation and plays a critical role in various physiological and pathological processes. However, the regulatory mechanisms for ferroptosis sensitivity remain incompletely understood. Here, we report that homozygous deletion of Usp8 (ubiquitin-specific protease 8) in intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) leads to architectural changes in the colonic epithelium and shortens mouse lifespan accompanied by increased IEC death and signs of lipid peroxidation. However, mice with heterozygous deletion of Usp8 in IECs display normal phenotype and become resistant to azoxymethane/dextran sodium sulfate-induced colorectal tumorigenesis. Mechanistically, USP8 interacts with and deubiquitinates glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), leading to GPX4 stabilization. Thus, USP8 inhibition destabilizes GPX4 and sensitizes cancer cells to ferroptosis in vitro. Notably, USP8 inhibition in combination with ferroptosis inducers retards tumor growth and enhances CD8+ T cell infiltration, which potentiates tumor response to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy in vivo. These findings uncover that USP8 counteracts ferroptosis by stabilizing GPX4 and highlight targeting USP8 as a potential therapeutic strategy to boost ferroptosis for enhancing cancer immunotherapy.

FTIR microspectroscopic study of gastric cancer AGS cells apoptosis induced by As2O3

As2O3 has shown significant anti-gastric cancer effects, but the mechanism is still unclear. Thus, biomacromolecular changes induced by As2O3 were investigated by using human gastric cancer AGS cells as the model. Flow cytometry results confirmed that As2O3 induced AGS cells apoptosis. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) microspectroscopy detected biomacromolecular changes during As2O3-induced AGS cells apoptosis sensitively: IR spectra showed significant changes in the lipids content and the proteins and DNA structure. Peak-area ratios indicated obvious changes in the lipids and DNA content and the proteins structure, while also showing a relatively good linear relationship between A1733/A969 and the apoptosis rate. PCA exhibited significant alteration in nucleic acids while curve fitting further revealed the changes in nucleic acids and proteins. On the whole, our study explored As2O3-induced gastric cancer cells apoptosis in depth on the basis of analyzing biomacromolecular changes, in addition, it also suggested FTIR microspectroscopy to be possibly useful in the research of apoptosis.

High frequency deep brain stimulation of the dorsal raphe nucleus prevents methamphetamine priming-induced reinstatement of drug seeking in rats

Drug addiction represents a multifaceted and recurrent brain disorder that possesses the capability to create persistent and ineradicable pathological memory. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has shown a therapeutic potential for neuropsychological disorders, while the precise stimulation targets and therapeutic parameters for addiction remain deficient. Among the crucial brain regions implicated in drug addiction, the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) has been found to exert an essential role in the manifestation of addiction memory. Thus, we investigated the effects of DRN DBS in the treatment of addiction and whether it might produce side effects by a series of behavioral assessments, including methamphetamine priming-induced reinstatement of drug seeking behaviors, food-induced conditioned place preference (CPP), open field test and elevated plus-maze test, and examined brain activity and connectivity after DBS of DRN. We found that high-frequency DBS of the DRN significantly lowered the CPP scores and the number of active-nosepokes in the methamphetamine-primed CPP test and the self-administration model. Moreover, both high-frequency and sham DBS group rats were able to establish significant food-induced place preference, and no significant difference was observed in the open field test and in the elevated plus-maze test between the two groups. Immunofluorescence staining and functional magnetic resonance imaging revealed that high-frequency DBS of the DRN could alter the activity and functional connectivity of brain regions related to addiction. These results indicate that high-frequency DBS of the DRN effectively inhibits methamphetamine priming-induced relapse and seeking behaviors in rats and provides a new target for the treatment of drug addiction.

First Measurement of η Meson Production in Neutrino Interactions on Argon with MicroBooNE

We present a measurement of η production from neutrino interactions on argon with the MicroBooNE detector. The modeling of resonant neutrino interactions on argon is a critical aspect of the neutrino oscillation physics program being carried out by the DUNE and Short Baseline Neutrino programs. η production in neutrino interactions provides a powerful new probe of resonant interactions, complementary to pion channels, and is particularly suited to the study of higher-order resonances beyond the Δ(1232). We measure a flux-integrated cross section for neutrino-induced η production on argon of 3.22±0.84(stat)±0.86(syst) 10^{-41}  cm^{2}/nucleon. By demonstrating the successful reconstruction of the two photons resulting from η production, this analysis enables a novel calibration technique for electromagnetic showers in GeV accelerator neutrino experiments.

Common gastrointestinal symptoms and their impact on psychological state and quality of life in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: a cross-sectional multicenter study in China

Objective

To explore the impact of common gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms on psychological symptoms, sleep quality, and quality of life in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Methods

A unified questionnaire was developed to collect clinical data on the mental psychology and quality of life of IBD patients from 42 hospitals in 22 provinces in P. R. China from September 2021 to May 2022. The general clinical characteristics, psychological symptoms, sleep quality, and quality of life of IBD patients with different numbers of GI symptoms were analyzed by descriptive statistical analysis.

Results

A total of 2,478 IBD patients were finally analysed in this study, including 365 without GI symptoms (14.7%), 752 with single symptoms (30.4%), 841 with double symptoms (33.9%), and 520 with three symptoms (21.0%). Compared with patients without GI symptoms, patients with only simple abdominalgia or diarrhea or hematochezia showed significantly higher levels of anxiety and depression and worse quality of life (all P < 0.05). Compared with asymptomatic patients, patients with double symptoms (e.g. abdominalgia plus hematochezia, diarrhea plus hematochezia, abdominalgia plus diarrhea) and patients with three symptoms (abdominalgia, diarrhea, and hematochezia) showed significantly higher levels of anxiety and depression and worse sleep quality and quality of life (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Compared with IBD patients without gastrointestinal symptoms, patients with gastrointestinal symptoms were more likely to experience anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, and poorer quality of life.

Evaluation of effects from hemoglobin variants on HbA1c measurements by different methods

OBJECTIVES

The impact of seven hemoglobin variants (Hb Q-Thailand, Hb G-Honolulu, Hb Ube-2, Hb New York, Hb J-Bangkok, Hb G-Coushatta, and Hb E) on the outcome of HbA1c was investigated for six methods by comparing with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) reference method.

METHODS

Twenty-nine normal and 112 variant samples were measured by LC/MS/MS, Sebia Capillarys 3 TERA, Intelligene Biosystems QuanTOF, Premier Hb9210, Arkray HA-8190V, Bio-Rad D-100, and Tosoh G11, then evaluated for correlation, consistency, and mean relative bias among six methods. The lowest biological variation bias of ±2.8 % was an acceptable standard.

RESULTS

All methods showed poor correlation and consistency with LC/MS/MS for Hb E. The unacceptable biases were observed for Capillarys 3 TERA (-14.4 to -3.7 % for Hb Q-Thailand, Hb Ube-2, Hb New York, Hb J-Bangkok and Hb E), QuanTOF (-8.3 to -2.9 % for Hb Ube-2, Hb New York and Hb G-Coushatta), Premier Hb9210 (-18.3 to -3.6 % for Hb Q-Thailand, Hb Ube-2, Hb New York, Hb J-Bangkok and Hb E), HA-8190V variant mode (-17.3 to 6.6 % for Hb G-Honolulu, Hb Ube-2, Hb New York, Hb G-Coushatta and Hb E). All variant samples showed larger biases than ±2.8 % comparing HA-8190V fast mode, D-100, and G11 with LC/MS/MS.

CONCLUSIONS

The accuracy of different HbA1c methods was influenced by some Hb variants, especially Hb Ube-2 and Hb New York. Thus, laboratories need to choose appropriate methods to measure HbA1c with different Hb variants.

What else should hemostatic materials do beyond hemostasis: A review

Massive blood loss due to injury is the leading cause of prehospital deaths in disasters and emergencies. Hemostatic materials are used to realize rapid hemostasis and protect patients from death. Researchers have designed and developed a variety of hemostatic materials. However, in addition to their hemostatic effect, hemostatic materials must be endowed with additional functions to meet the practical application requirements in different scenarios. Here, strategies for modifications of hemostatic materials for use in different application scenarios are listed: effective positioning at the site of deep and narrow wounds to stop bleeding, resistance to high blood pressure and wound movement to maintain wound formation, rapid and easy removal from the wound without affecting further treatment after hemostasis is completed, and continued function when retained in the wound as a dressing (such as antibacterial, antiadhesion, tissue repair, etc.). The problems encountered in the practical use of hemostatic materials and the strategies and progress of researchers will be further discussed in this review. We hope to provide valuable references for the design of more comprehensive and practical hemostatic materials.

An inferior vena cava-priority approach in laparoscopic isolated hepatic caudate lobectomy

PURPOSE

Laparoscopic isolated caudate lobectomy is still a challenging operation for surgeons. The access route of the operation plays a vital role during laparoscopic caudate lobectomy. There are few references regarding this technique. Here, we introduce a preferred inferior vena cava (IVC) approach in laparoscopic caudate lobectomy.

METHODS

Twenty-one consecutive patients with caudate hepatic tumours between June 2016 and December 2021 were included in this study. All of them received laparoscopic caudate lobectomy involving an IVC priority approach. The IVC priority approach refers to prioritizing the dissection of the IVC from the liver parenchyma before proceeding with the conventional left or right approach. It emphasizes the importance of the IVC dissection during process. Clinical data, intraoperative parameters and postoperative results were evaluated. Sixteen patients were performed pure IVC priority approach, while 5 patients underwent a combined approach. We subsequently compared the intraoperative and postoperative between the two groups.

RESULTS

All 21 patients were treated with laparoscopic technology. The operative time was 190.95 ± 92.65 min. The average estimated blood loss was 251.43 ± 247.45 ml, and four patients needed blood transfusions during the perioperative period. The average duration of hospital stay was 8.43 ± 2.64 (range from 6.0 to 16.0) days. Patients who underwent the pure inferior vena cava (IVC) approach required a shorter hepatic pedicle clamping time (26 vs. 55 min, respectively; P < 0.001) and operation time (150 vs. 380 min, respectively; P = 0.002) than those who underwent the combined approach. Hospitalization (7.0 vs. 9.0 days, respectively; P = 0.006) was shorter in the pure IVC group than in the combined group.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic caudate lobectomy with an IVC priority approach is safe and feasible for patients with caudate hepatic tumours.

Association of food insecurity with successful aging among older Indians: study based on LASI

PURPOSE

Whether food insecurity (FI), a social determinant of health, is linked with successful aging (SA) in the older generation remains uncertain. This study explored the association of FI with SA among older Indians.

METHODS

Data were collected from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI) wave 1 (2017-2018). Older adults (≥ 60 years) who completed both the FI and the SA surveys were selected. FI was indicated by the lack of access to enough food in the past year. SA was determined by five components: (1) low probability of diseases; (2) low probability of disability; (3) high cognitive functionality; (4) low probability of depression; and (5) active social engagement. The association of FI and SA was assessed using multivariable logistic regression adjusted for potential covariates. Subgroup analyses were performed to evaluate interactions with age, sex, alcohol use, smoking, and place of residence.

RESULTS

27,579 participants met the eligibility criteria. Overall prevalence was 7.13% for FI and 19.41% for SA. Following full adjustment, FI was inversely associated with SA (OR 0.56; 95% CI 0.49-0.65) and with each of SA's five components. No significant interactions of FI and SA were observed in subgroup analyses stratified by age, sex, alcohol use, smoking, or place of residence.

CONCLUSIONS

FI was inversely associated with SA among older Indians. These findings need to be validated by future studies which should also explore potential underlying mechanisms, and whether interventions decreasing FI might increase SA.

Psychological symptoms and quality of life in patients with inflammatory bowel disease in China: A multicenter study

AIMS

To investigate the current situation of mental psychology and quality of life (QoL) in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in China, and analyze the influencing factors.

METHODS

A unified questionnaire was developed to collect clinical data on IBD patients from 42 hospitals in 22 provinces from September 2021 to May 2022. Multivariate Logistic regression analysis was conducted, and independent influencing factors were screened out to construct nomogram. The consistency index (C-index), receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, area under the ROC curve (AUC), calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to evaluate the discrimination, accuracy, and clinical utility of the nomogram model.

RESULTS

A total of 2478 IBD patients were surveyed, including 1371 patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and 1107 patients with Crohn's disease (CD). Among them, 25.5%, 29.7%, 60.2%, and 37.7% of IBD patients had anxiety, depression, sleep disturbance and poor QoL, respectively. The proportion of anxiety, depression, and poor QoL in UC patients was significantly higher than that in CD patients (all p < 0.05), but there was no difference in sleep disturbance between them (p = 0.737). Female, higher disease activity and the first visit were independent risk factors for anxiety, depression and sleep disturbance in IBD patients (all p < 0.05). The first visit, higher disease activity, abdominal pain and diarrhea symptoms, anxiety, depression and sleep disturbance were independent risk factors for the poor QoL of patients (all p < 0.05). The AUC value of the nomogram prediction model for predicting poor QoL was 0.773 (95% CI: 0.754-0.792). The calibration diagram of the model showed that the calibration curve fit well with the ideal curve, and DCA showed that the nomogram model could bring clinical benefits.

CONCLUSION

IBD patients have higher anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbance, which affect their QoL. The nomogram prediction model we constructed has high accuracy and performance when predicting QoL.

The soybean lecithin-cyclodextrin-vitamin E complex nanoparticles stabilized Pickering emulsions for the delivery of β-carotene: Physicochemical properties and in vitro digestion

In this work, soybean lecithin (LC) was used to modify β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) with hydrophobic fat chains to become amphiphilic (LC-CD), and vitamin E (VE) was encapsulated in former modified β-CD complexes (LC-CD-VE), the new Pickering emulsions stabilized by LC-CD-VE and LC-CD complexes for the delivery of β-carotene (BC) were created. The surface tension, contact angle, zeta potential, and particle size were used to assess the changes in complexes nanoparticles at various pH values. Furthermore, LC-CD-VE has more promise as Pickering emulsion stabilizer than LC-CD because of the smaller particle size (271.11 nm), proper contact angle (58.02°), and lower surface tension (42.49 mN/m). The interactions between β-cyclodextrin, soybean lecithin, and vitamin E were confirmed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The durability of Pickering emulsions was examined at various volume fractions of the oil phase and concentrations of nanoparticles. Compared to the emulsion stabilized by LC-CD, the one stabilized by LC-CD-VE showed superior storage stability. Moreover, for the delivery of BC, Pickering emulsions stabilized by LC-CD and LC-CD-VE can outperform bulk oil and Tween 80 stabilized emulsions in terms of UV light stability, storage stability, and bioaccessibility. This work could offer fresh perspectives on stabilizer alternatives for Pickering emulsion delivery systems.

Predictive effect of net water uptake on futile recanalisation in patients with acute large-vessel occlusion stroke

AIM

To determine whether net water uptake (NWU) based on automated software evaluation could predict futile recanalisation in patients with acute anterior circulation large-vessel occlusion (LVO).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with acute anterior circulation LVO undergoing mechanical thrombectomy in Jinling Hospital were evaluated retrospectively. NWU and other baseline data were evaluated by performing univariate and multivariate analyses. The primary endpoint was 90-day modified Rankin scale score ≥3. A nomogram to predict poor clinical outcomes was developed based on multivariate logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

Overall, 135 patients who underwent thrombectomy with a TICI grade ≥2b were enrolled. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, the following factors were identified as independent predictors of futile recanalisation: age (odds ratio [OR]: 1.055, 95 % confidence interval [CI]: 1.004-1.110, p=0.035), female (OR: 0.289, 95 % CI: 0.098-0.850, p=0.024), hypertension (OR: 3.182, 95 % CI: 1.160-8.728, p=0.025), high blood glucose level (OR: 1.36, 95 % CI: 1.087-1.701, p=0.007), admission National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score (OR: 1.082, 95 % CI: 1.003-1.168, p=0.043), and NWU (OR: 1.312, 95 % CI: 1.038-1.659, p=0.023).

CONCLUSIONS

NWU based on Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography (CT) Score (ASPECTS) could be used to predict the occurrence of futile recanalisation in patients with acute anterior circulation LVO ischaemic stroke.

Unveiling the distribution characteristics of rpf-like genes and indigenous resuscitation promoting factor production in PCB-contaminated soils

Resuscitation promoting factors (Rpfs), known for their anti-dormancy cytokine properties, have been extensively investigated in the medical field. Although the Rpf from Micrococcus luteus has been successfully utilized to resuscitate and stimulate microbial populations for the degradation of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), the presence of indigenous Rpf homologs in PCB-contaminated soils has not been established. In this study, the distribution characteristics of rpf-like genes and indigenous strain capable of producing Rpf in PCB-contaminated soils were explored. The results revealed the widespread presence of Rpf-like domains and their associated genes, particularly in close association with heavy metals and PCBs. The rpf-like genes were predominantly found in Proteobacteria and displayed a positive correlation with genes involved in PCB degradation and viable but non-culturable (VBNC) formation. Notably, the recombinant Rpf-Ac protein derived from the indigenous strain Achromobacter sp. HR2 exhibited muralytic activity and demonstrated significant efficacy in resuscitating the growth of VBNC cells, while also stimulating the growth of normal cells. These findings shed light on the prevalent presence of Rpf homologs in PCB-contaminated soils and their potential to resuscitate functional populations in the VBNC state, thereby enhancing in situ bioremediation.

Termination of convulsion seizures by destabilizing and perturbing seizure memory engrams

Epileptogenesis, arising from alterations in synaptic strength, shares mechanistic and phenotypic parallels with memory formation. However, direct evidence supporting the existence of seizure memory remains scarce. Leveraging a conditioned seizure memory (CSM) paradigm, we found that CSM enabled the environmental cue to trigger seizure repetitively, and activating cue-responding engram cells could generate CSM artificially. Moreover, cue exposure initiated an analogous process of memory reconsolidation driven by mammalian target of rapamycin-brain-derived neurotrophic factor signaling. Pharmacological targeting of the mammalian target of rapamycin pathway within a limited time window reduced seizures in animals and interictal epileptiform discharges in patients with refractory seizures. Our findings reveal a causal link between seizure memory engrams and seizures, which leads us to a deeper understanding of epileptogenesis and points to a promising direction for epilepsy treatment.

UFL1 ablation in T cells suppresses PD-1 UFMylation to enhance anti-tumor immunity

UFMylation is an emerging ubiquitin-like post-translational modification that regulates various biological processes. Dysregulation of the UFMylation pathway leads to human diseases, including cancers. However, the physiological role of UFMylation in T cells remains unclear. Here, we report that mice with conditional knockout (cKO) Ufl1, a UFMylation E3 ligase, in T cells exhibit effective tumor control. Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis shows that tumor-infiltrating cytotoxic CD8+ T cells are increased in Ufl1 cKO mice. Mechanistically, UFL1 promotes PD-1 UFMylation to antagonize PD-1 ubiquitination and degradation. Furthermore, AMPK phosphorylates UFL1 at Thr536, disrupting PD-1 UFMylation to trigger its degradation. Of note, UFL1 ablation in T cells reduces PD-1 UFMylation, subsequently destabilizing PD-1 and enhancing CD8+ T cell activation. Thus, Ufl1 cKO mice bearing tumors have a better response to anti-CTLA-4 immunotherapy. Collectively, our findings uncover a crucial role of UFMylation in T cells and highlight UFL1 as a potential target for cancer treatment.

Coupled Interface and Oxygen-Defect Engineering in Co3O4/CoMoO4 Heterostructures toward Active Oxidation of Ethylbenzene

The catalytic oxidation of ethylbenzene (EB) is a promising route to produce acetophenone (AcPO). Unfortunately, it remains a great challenge to achieve the highly efficient oxidation of EB under solvent-free conditions using molecular oxygen as the sole oxidant. In this contribution, we present a facile strategy to construct hierarchical oxygen vacancy-rich Co3O4/CoMoO4 heterostructures (Vö-CCMO), which delivers a high yield value of 74.5% at 83.2% conversion of EB and selectivity of 89.6% to AcPO. Both experimental studies and theoretical calculations substantiate the important role of oxygen-defect engineering triggered by the modified chemistry environment at the interfaces between the biphasic phases, which contributes to the good catalytic performance. This work illustrates a promising paradigm for the exploit of advanced catalysts toward boosting EB oxidation reaction in a more practical way.

New insights into survival strategies and PCB bioremediation potential of resuscitated strain Achromobacter sp. HR2 under combined stress conditions

The resuscitated strains achieved through the addition of resuscitation promoting factor (Rpf) hold significant promise as bio-inoculants for enhancing the bioremediation of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Nevertheless, the potential of these resuscitated strains to transition into a viable but non-culturable (VBNC) state, along with the specific stressors that initiate this transformation, remains to be comprehensively elucidated. In this study, a resuscitated strain HR2, obtained through Rpf amendment, was employed to investigate its survival strategies under combined stress involving low temperature (LT), and PCBs, in the absence and presence of heavy metals (HMs). Whole-genome analysis demonstrated that HR2, affiliated with Achromobacter, possessed 107 genes associated with the degradation of polycyclic aromatic compounds. Remarkably, HR2 exhibited effective degradation of Aroclor 1242 and robust resistance to stress induced by LT and PCBs, while maintaining its culturability. However, when exposed to the combined stress of LT, PCBs, and HMs, HR2 entered the VBNC state. This state was characterized by significant decreases in enzyme activities and notable morphological, physiological, and molecular alterations compared to normal cells. These findings uncovered the survival status of resuscitated strains under stressful conditions, thereby offering valuable insights for the development of effective bioremediation strategies.

Hexavalent Chromium Reduction Mediated by Interfacial Electron Transfer over the Co@NC Nanosheet-Assembled Microflowers

The reductive transformation of Cr(VI) into Cr(III) mediated by formic acid with efficient, stable, and cost-effective catalysts is a promising strategy for remediating Cr(VI) contamination. Herein, we report the facile construction of uniform Co@NC nanosheet-assembled microflowers for the reduction of Cr(VI). Both experimental results and density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal the vital role of the intensive interfacial electronic interaction between Co nanoparticles and the N-doped carbon layer in facilitating the anchoring and dispersion of Co nanoparticles within the carbon framework. The interfacial electron transfer from Co to NC contributes to the interaction with Cr2O72- ions, promoting the subsequent H-transfer reaction. A Langmuir-Hinshelwood kinetic model has been established for the Cr(VI) reduction catalyzed by the CNCF2 (pyrolyzed at 700 °C), which shows a superior reaction performance. This study provides a facile strategy to delicately design well-assembled heterostructures with rich interfaces and strong interfacial interactions for a series of applications in environmental/thermal catalysis.

Preconception episodes of severe hypoglycemia and risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women with type 1 diabetes mellitus

AIMS

To explore the relationship between preconception severe hypoglycemia (PSH) and pregnancy outcomes in pregnancies complicated with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this multicenter prospective cohort study, women with pregestational T1DM were stratified by episodes of severe hypoglycemia within 1 year before conception: No PSH, sporadic PSH (1-6 times/year), and recurrent PSH (>6 times/year). We analysed the predictive ability of PSH for maternal and neonatal outcomes using log-binomial regression models and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

RESULTS

Of the 124 women studied, 37.1% experienced at least one episode of severe hypoglycemia preconception. In the multiple adjusted regression models, recurrent PSH was significantly associated with increased incidence of preeclampsia (RR 17.59, 95% CI: 2.89-150.62, p for trend = 0.007), preterm birth (RR 6.34, 95% CI: 1.22-40.63, p for trend = 0.027), neonatal hypoglycemia (RR 4.52, 95% CI: 1.14-17.16, p for trend = 0.017), neonatal hyperbilirubinemia (RR 4.12, 95% CI: 1.11-15.56, p for trend = 0.004), and composite neonatal outcome (RR 3.85, 95% CI: 1.01-19.61, p for trend = 0.003). In the ROC analysis, PSH predicted preeclampsia, preterm birth, neonatal hypoglycemia, neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, and composite neonatal outcome with areas under the ROC curve all ≥0.6.

CONCLUSIONS

Recurrent preconception severe hypoglycemia is associated with increased risks of adverse outcomes in pregnant women with T1DM.

PFOS exposure destroys the integrity of the blood-testis barrier (BTB) through PI3K/AKT/mTOR-mediated autophagy

Perfluorooctanesulfonate or perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), a type of perfluorinated compound, is mainly found in consumer products. Exposure to PFOS could cause male reproductive toxicity by causing injury to the blood-testis barrier (BTB). However, the specific mechanisms through which PFOS affects male reproduction remain unclear. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a vital protein kinase that is believed to be a central regulator of autophagy. In this study, we established in vivo and in vitro models to explore the effects of PFOS on the BTB, autophagy, and the regulatory role of the mTOR signaling pathway. Adult mice were developmentally exposed to 0, 0.5, 5, and 10 mg/kg/day PFOS for five weeks. Thereafter, their testicular morphology, sperm counts, serum testosterone, expression of BTB-related proteins, and autophagy-related proteins were evaluated. Additionally, TM4 cells (a mouse Sertoli cell line) were used to delineate the molecular mechanisms that mediate the effects of PFOS on BTB. Our results demonstrated that exposure to PFOS induced BTB injury and autophagy, as evidenced by increased expression of autophagy-related proteins, accumulation of autophagosomes, observed through representative electron micrographs, and decreased activity of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Moreover, treatment with chloroquine, an autophagy inhibitor, alleviated the effects of PFOS on the integrity of TM4 cells in the BTB and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Overall, this study highlights that exposure to PFOS destroys the integrity of the BTB through PI3K/AKT/mTOR-mediated autophagy.

Multiplexed sensitivity-encoding versus single-shot echo-planar imaging: a comparative study for diffusion-weighted imaging of the thyroid lesions

PURPOSE

To compare multiplexed sensitivity-encoding diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MUSE-DWI) and conventional DWI (cDWI) techniques in thyroid MRI.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Nineteen patients who underwent thyroid MRI using both MUSE-DWI and cDWI at a 3.0 T MRI system were enrolled. Qualitative parameters (image quality, thyroid contour, and lesion conspicuity) and quantitative parameters (signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), lesion-to-thyroid contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC)) were compared between the two sequences. In addition, ADC values derived from MUSE-DWI and cDWI were separately compared between benign and malignant lesions.

RESULTS

MUSE-DWI outperformed cDWI in terms of image quality, thyroid contour, and lesion conspicuity. Significantly, higher signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in both the thyroid and its lesion were found in MUSE-DWI than those in cDWI (both P < 0.05). The lesion-to-thyroid contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) values were also significantly higher in MUSE-DWI than those in cDWI (P < 0.05). The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) of the thyroid in MUSE-DWI was significantly lower than that in cDWI (P < 0.05). The ADC of the lesion in MUSE-DWI was also significantly lower than that in cDWI (P < 0.05). In addition, ADC values derived from MUSE-DWI and cDWI were significantly higher in benign lesions than malignant lesions (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Compared with cDWI, MUSE-DWI can improve the image quality, thyroid contour sharpness, lesion conspicuity, SNR in both the thyroid and its lesions, and enhancing the CNR between lesions and thyroid.

Adjuvant sintilimab in resected high-risk hepatocellular carcinoma: a randomized, controlled, phase 2 trial

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), particularly when accompanied by microvascular invasion (MVI), has a markedly high risk of recurrence after liver resection. Adjuvant immunotherapy is considered a promising avenue. This multicenter, open-label, randomized, controlled, phase 2 trial was conducted at six hospitals in China to assess the efficacy and safety of adjuvant sintilimab, a programmed cell death protein 1 inhibitor, in these patients. Eligible patients with HCC with MVI were randomized (1:1) into the sintilimab or active surveillance group. The sintilimab group received intravenous injections every 3 weeks for a total of eight cycles. The primary endpoint was recurrence-free survival (RFS) in the intention-to-treat population. Key secondary endpoints included overall survival (OS) and safety. From September 1, 2020, to April 23, 2022, a total of 198 eligible patients were randomly allocated to receive adjuvant sintilimab (n = 99) or undergo active surveillance (n = 99). After a median follow-up of 23.3 months, the trial met the prespecified endpoints. Sintilimab significantly prolonged RFS compared to active surveillance (median RFS, 27.7 versus 15.5 months; hazard ratio 0.534, 95% confidence interval 0.360-0.792; P = 0.002). Further follow-up is needed to confirm the difference in OS. In the sintilimab group, 12.4% of patients experienced grade 3 or 4 treatment-related adverse events, the most common of which were elevated alanine aminotransferase levels (5.2%) and anemia (4.1%). These findings support the potential of immune checkpoint inhibitors as effective adjuvant therapy for these high-risk patients. Chinese Clinical Trial Registry identifier: ChiCTR2000037655 .

Melatonin regulates the circadian rhythm to ameliorate postoperative sleep disorder and neurobehavioral abnormalities in aged mice

BACKGROUND

Postoperative sleep disorder (PSD) and delirium, which may be associated with surgery and inhalational anesthetics, induce adverse effects in old adults. Emerging evidence indicates that circadian rhythm contributes to various neuropathological diseases, including Alzheimer's disease. Thus, we analyzed the potential role of circadian rhythm in PSD and delirium-like behavior in aged mice and determined whether exogenous melatonin could facilitate entrainment of the circadian rhythm after laparotomy under sevoflurane anesthesia.

METHODS

We selected old C57BL/6J mice which receiving laparotomy/sevoflurane anesthesia as model animals. We employed buried food, open field, and Y maze test to assess delirium-like behavior, and electroencephalography/electromyography (EEG/EMG) were used to investigate sleep changes. We analyzed the transcription rhythm of clock genes in superchiasmatic nucleus (SCN) to explore the effects of surgery and melatonin pretreatment on the circadian rhythm. Then, we measured melatonin receptor levels in SCN and ERK/CREB pathway-related proteins in hippocampus and prefrontal cortex to assess their role in PSDs and delirium-like behavior.

RESULTS

Laparotomy under sevoflurane anesthesia had a greater influence than sevoflurane alone, leading to sleep disorder, a shift in sleep-wake rhythm, and delirium-like behavior. Bmal1, Clock, and Cry1 mRNA expression showed a peak shift, MT1 melatonin receptor expression level was increased in the SCN, and p-ERK/ERK and p-CREB/CREB were decreased in hippocampus and prefrontal cortex of aged mice 1 day after laparotomy. Melatonin showed significant efficacy in ameliorating PSD and delirium-like behavior and restoring the circadian rhythm, reversing melatonin receptor and ERK/CREB pathway expression abnormalities. In addition, most of the beneficial effect of melatonin was antagonized by luzindole, a melatonin receptor antagonist.

CONCLUSIONS

Melatonin receptors in SCN, circadian rhythm, and ERK/CREB signaling pathway participate in the pathophysiological processes of PSD and delirium-like behavior. Melatonin intervention could be a potential preventative approach for PSD and delirium.

Oxygen Vacancy and Bandgap Simultaneous Modulation to Achieve High Lithiophilicity and Mechanical Strength of Lithium Metal Anodes

Metal oxides with conversion and alloying mechanisms are more competitive in suppressing lithium dendrites. However, it is difficult to simultaneously regulate the conversion and alloying reactions. Herein, conversion and alloying reactions are regulated by modulation of the zinc oxide bandgap and oxygen vacancies. State-of-the-art advanced characterization techniques from a microcosmic to a macrocosmic viewpoint, including neutron diffraction, synchrotron X-ray absorption spectroscopy, synchrotron X-ray microtomography, nanoindentation, and ultrasonic C-scan demonstrated the electrochemical gain benefit from plentiful oxygen vacancies and low bandgaps due to doping strategies. In addition, high mechanical strength 3D morphology and abundant mesopores assist in the uniform distribution of lithium ions. Consequently, the best-performed ZnO-2 offers impressive electrochemical properties, including symmetric Li cells with 2000 h and full cells with 81% capacity retention after 600 cycles. In addition to providing a promising strategy for improving the lithiophilicity and mechanical strength of metal oxide anodes, this work also sheds light on lithium metal batteries for practical applications.

Hollow Hierarchical Porous and Antihydrolytic Spherical Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks for Enzyme Encapsulation and Biocatalysis

The creation of a new metal-organic framework (MOF) with a hollow hierarchical porous structure has gained significant attention in the realm of enzyme immobilization. The present work employed a novel, facile, and effective combinatorial technique to synthesize modified MOF (N-PVP/HZIF-8) with a hierarchically porous core-shell structure, allowing for the preservation of the structural integrity of the encapsulated enzyme molecules. Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and other characterization tools were used to fully explore the changes of morphological structure and surface properties in different stages of the preparation of immobilization enzyme CRL-N-PVP/HZIF-8, thus showing the superiority of N-PVP/HZIF-8 as an enzyme immobilization platform and the logic of the immobilization process on the carrier. Additionally, the maximum enzyme loading was 216.3 mg mL-1, the relative activity of CRL-N-PVP/HZIF-8 increased by 15 times compared with the CRL@ZIF-8 immobilized in situ, and exhibited quite good thermal, chemical, and operational stability. With a maximal conversion of 88.8%, CRL-N-PVP/HZIF-8 demonstrated good catalytic performance in the biosynthesis of phytosterol esters as a proof of concept. It is anticipated that this work will offer fresh concepts from several perspectives for the creation of MOF-based immobilized enzymes for biotechnological uses.

Decoding the key compounds responsible for the empty cup aroma of soy sauce aroma type baijiu

The empty cup aroma in soy sauce aroma type baijiu (SSB) is distinct, but the specific compounds responsible for its unique aroma remain unknown. The aroma characteristics of SSB and the empty cup were investigated using molecular sensory science. Fifty-three and 27 aroma active compounds were identified in SSB and empty cup aroma, respectively. AEDA of the empty cup showed ethyl 3-phenylpropanoate, phenylethyl alcohol, sotolon, p-cresol, and 2,3-dimethyl-5-ethyl pyrazine could be the most important aroma contributors to the empty cup aroma due to their high FD values. Sotolon, characterized by its seasoning-like and herbal aroma, was identified as a crucial aroma compound for the empty cup aroma for the first time. Lactic acid was found to decrease the olfactory threshold of sotolon markedly in both 53% ethanol water solution and empty cup, promoting the contribution of sotolon to the empty cup aroma.

Comparable analysis of six immunoassays for carcinoembryonic antigen detection

Objective

This study aimed to assess the current status of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) detection. We evaluated the correlation, consistency, and comparability of CEA results among six automated immunoassays, and combined with the results of CEA trueness verification of the Beijing Center for Clinical Laboratories (BCCL) for further analysis.

Methods

Abbott Architect i2000, Beckman DxI800, Roche Cobas E601, Diasorin Liaison XL, Maccura IS1200, and Autolumo A2000 were used to detect 40 individual serum CEA samples. Taking the optimal analytical quality specifications calculated from data on biological variation as the evaluation criterion. Passing-Bablok regression and Bland-Altman analysis were performed between each assay and all-assays median values to evaluate the correlation and relative difference. The concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) was used for consistency analysis. Additionally, the trueness verification program used samples at three concentration levels to assess the bias, coefficient of variation (CV), and total error (TE) between the average measured values and the target value.

Results

The Spearman's rank correlation coefficient (rs) was ≥0.996 and the CCC ranged between 0.9448 and 0.9990 for each assay vs. all-assays median. Considering the all-assays median value of each sample as a reference, there were proportional and systematic differences according to the Passing-bablok regression analysis. The relative difference of the four assays (Abbott Architect i2000, Autolumo A2000, Diasorin Liaison XL, and Maccura IS1200) met the optimal analytical quality specifications. On the other hand, Beckman DxI800 (13.2 %) and Roche Cobas E601 (-9.0 %) were only able to fulfill the desirable analytical quality specifications. The average pass rates for bias, CV, and TE of the trueness verification program were 80 %, 98 %, and 96 %, respectively.

Conclusions

The six automated immunoassays vs. all-assays median have a good correlation in CEA detection. However, there is a lack of comparability of CEA results. Further improvements are needed in harmonization among CEA detections.

A new scoring system for predicting the outcome of hepatocellular carcinoma patients without microvascular invasion-a large-scale multicentre study

BACKGROUND

The prognosis of HCC patients without MVI (so called M0) is highly heterogeneous and the need for adjuvant therapy is still controversial.

METHODS

Patients with HCC with M0 who underwent liver resection (LR) or liver transplantation (LT) as an initial therapy were included. The Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital (EHBH)-M0 score was developed from a retrospective cohort to form the training cohort. The classification which was developed using multivariate cox regression analysis was externally validated.

RESULTS

The score was developed using the following factors: α-fetoprotein level, tumour diameter, liver cirrhosis, total bilirubin, albumin and aspartate aminotransferase. The score differentiated two groups of M0 patients (≤3, >3 points) with distinct long-term prognoses outcomes (median overall survival (OS), 98.0 vs. 46.0 months; p < 0.001). The predictive accuracy of the score was greater than the other commonly used staging systems for HCC. And for M0 patients with a higher score underwent LR. Adjuvant transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) was effective to prolong OS.

CONCLUSIONS

The EHBH M0 scoring system was more accurate in predicting the prognosis of HCC patients with M0 after LR or LT. Adjuvant therapy is recommended for HCC patients who have a higher score.

Higher-order combinatorial chromatin perturbations by engineered CRISPR-Cas12a for functional genomics

Multiplexed genetic perturbations are critical for testing functional interactions among coding or non-coding genetic elements. Compared to double-stranded DNA cutting, repressive chromatin formation using CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) avoids genotoxicity and is more effective for perturbing non-coding regulatory elements in pooled assays. However, current CRISPRi pooled screening approaches are limited to targeting 1-3 genomic sites per cell. To develop a tool for higher-order ( > 3) combinatorial targeting of genomic sites with CRISPRi in functional genomics screens, we engineered an Acidaminococcus Cas12a variant -- referred to as mul tiplexed transcriptional interference AsCas12a (multiAsCas12a). multiAsCas12a incorporates a key mutation, R1226A, motivated by the hypothesis of nicking-induced stabilization of the ribonucleoprotein:DNA complex for improving CRISPRi activity. multiAsCas12a significantly outperforms prior state-of-the-art Cas12a variants in combinatorial CRISPRi targeting using high-order multiplexed arrays of lentivirally transduced CRISPR RNAs (crRNA), including in high-throughput pooled screens using 6-plex crRNA array libraries. Using multiAsCas12a CRISPRi, we discover new enhancer elements and dissect the combinatorial function of cis-regulatory elements. These results instantiate a group testing framework for efficiently surveying potentially numerous combinations of chromatin perturbations for biological discovery and engineering.

STMN1 Promotes Tumor Metastasis in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer Through Microtubule-dependent And Nonmicrotubule-dependent Pathways

The relationship between STMN1 and cancer metastasis is controversial. The purpose of this study was to explore the role and mechanism of STMN1 in NSCLC metastasis. In this study, we reported that STMN1 was highly expressed in NSCLC tissues and associated with poor prognosis. Both in vivo and in vitro functional assays confirmed that STMN1 promoted NSCLC metastasis. Further studies confirmed that STMN1 promoted cell migration by regulating microtubule stability. The results of Co-IP and LC‒MS/MS illustrated that STMN1 interacts with HMGA1. HMGA1 decreases microtubule stability by regulating the phosphorylation level of STMN1 at Ser16 and Ser38 after interacting with STMN1. This result suggested that STMN1 could be activated by HMGA1 to further promote NSCLC metastasis. Meanwhile, it has been found that STMN1 could promote cell migration by activating the p38MAPK/STAT1 signaling pathway, which is not dependent on microtubule stability. However, activating p38MAPK can decrease microtubule stability by promoting the dephosphorylation of STMN1 at ser16. A positive feedback loop was formed between STMN1 and p38MAPK to synergistically promote cell migration. In summary, our study demonstrated that STMN1 could promote NSCLC metastasis through microtubule-dependent and nonmicrotubule-dependent mechanisms. STMN1 has the potential to be a therapeutic target to inhibit metastasis.

Protein succinylation: regulating metabolism and beyond

Modifications of protein post-translation are critical modulatory processes, which alters target protein biological activity，function and/or location, even involved in pathogenesis of some diseases. So far, there are at least 16 types of post-translation modifications identified, particularly through recent mass spectrometry analysis. Among them, succinylation (Ksuc) on protein lysine residues causes a variety of biological changes. Succinylation of proteins contributes to many cellular processes such as proliferation, growth, differentiation, metabolism and even tumorigenesis. Mechanically, Succinylation leads to conformation alteration of chromatin or remodeling. As a result, transcription/expression of target genes is changed accordingly. Recent research indicated that succinylation mainly contributes to metabolism modulations, from gene expression of metabolic enzymes to their activity modulation. In this review, we will conclude roles of succinylation in metabolic regulation of glucose, fat, amino acids and related metabolic disease launched by aberrant succinylation. Our goal is to stimulate extra attention to these still not well researched perhaps important succinylation modification on proteins and cell processes.

Association between perioperative glucose profiles assessed by the continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system and prognosis in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI): protocol for a cohort study

INTRODUCTION

ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) presents a serious cardiovascular condition requiring prompt intervention. Dysglycaemia has been identified as a significant risk factor impacting STEMI prognosis. However, limited research has focused on comprehensively examining the association between glucose dynamics during the perioperative period and patient outcomes. This study aims to address this gap by leveraging continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology to gain real-time insights into glucose fluctuations and their potential impact on STEMI prognosis.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This is a multicentre, prospective, 3-year follow-up cohort study. Between May 2023 and May 2024, 550 eligible STEM patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention are expected to be recruited. Using the CGM system, continuous glucose levels will be collected throughout the perioperative phase. Key clinical parameters, including cardiac biomarkers, angiographic findings and major adverse cardiovascular events, will be assessed in relation to glucose profile.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study was approved by the Medical Research Ethics Committee of The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China and will be conducted in accordance with the moral, ethical and scientific principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. Written informed consent will be obtained from all participants before any study-related procedures are implemented. Study results will be disseminated through conferences and peer-reviewed scientific journals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ChiCTR2300069662.

Water quality and microecosystem of water tanks in karst mountainous area, Southwest China

Karst mountainous areas in Southwest China, the world's largest bare karst area, are faced with growing water shortages. Rainwater harvesting plays an important role in alleviating water shortage. However, there remains a substantial gap in the research regarding the water quality of tanks. Water samples were seasonally collected from ten tanks to investigate the physicochemical properties, microbial communities, and their key influencing factors. The result showed that pH, turbidity, chroma, DOC, and CODMn exceeded drinking water guidelines. The alkaline pH value and the deterioration of sensory properties was the main feature of tank water, from which the over-standard rate of the uncleaned water tanks was higher. Moreover, principal component analyses suggested that tank water quality was influenced by human activities, catchment areas, and material cycling processes within the tanks, of which in-tank microbial activities were the most important driving factors in water quality variation. Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Cyanobacteria, Firmicutes, and Verrucomicrobia were the predominant bacterial phyla in water tanks. Acinetobacter, Cyanobium-PCC-6307, CL500-29-marine-group, Candidatus-Aquiluna, and Exiguobacterium were the most abundant genera. The bacterial communities were significantly affected by the management practices. Higher relative abundance of Cyanobacteria and lower relative abundance of Proteobacteria was detected in the uncleaned tanks, which was a sign of tank water quality deterioration. The microbial community structure was closely related to the environmental factors. There was evidence that the water quality was affected by the existence of a microecosystem dominated by photosynthetic microorganisms in the water tanks. In addition, Acinetobacter, Enterobacter, Pseudomonas, and Legionella identified as the potential opportunistic pathogenic genera were frequently detected but the relative abundances except Acinetobacter were low in the tanks. Overall, our findings indicated that management style influences water quality and bacterial communities of tank water.

Establishment and application of a reverse dot blot assay for 13 mutations of hearing-loss genes in primary hospitals in China

Background

Hearing loss is a common sensorineural dysfunction with a high incidence in China. Although genetic factors are important causes of hearing loss, hearing-related gene detection has not been widely adopted in China.

Objective

Establishing a rapid and efficient method to simultaneously detect hotspot hearing loss gene mutations.

Methods

A reverse dot blot assay combined with a flow-through hybridization technique was developed for the simultaneous detection of 13 hotspot mutations of 4 hearing loss-related genes including GJB2, GJB3, SLC26A4, and the mitochondrial gene MT-RNR1. This method involved PCR amplification systems and a hybridization platform.

Results

The technique can detect 13 hotspot mutations of 4 hearing loss-related genes. And a total of 213 blood samples were used to evaluate the availability of this method.

Discussion

Our reverse dot blot assay was a simple, rapid, accurate, and cost-effective method to identify hotspot mutations of 4 hearing loss-related genes in a Chinese population.

Highly Reversible Molecular Photoswitches with Transition Metal Dichalcogenides Electrodes

The molecule-electrode coupling plays an essential role in photoresponsive devices with photochromic molecules, and the strong coupling between the molecule and the conventional electrodes leads to/ the quenching effect and limits the reversibility of molecular photoswitches. In this work, we developed a strategy of using transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) electrodes to fabricate the thiol azobenzene (TAB) self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) junctions with the eutectic gallium-indium (EGaIn) technique. The current-voltage characteristics of the EGaIn/GaOx //TAB/TMDCs photoswitches showed an almost 100% reversible photoswitching behavior, which increased by ∼28% compared to EGaIn/GaOx //TAB/AuTS photoswitches. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations showed the coupling strength of the TAB-TMDCs electrode decreased by 42% compared to that of the TAB-AuTS electrode, giving rise to improved reversibility. our work demonstrated the feasibility of 2D TMDCs for fabricating SAMs-based photoswitches with unprecedentedly high reversibility.