The Comparison between Spinal Facet Joint Toothed Plate and Traditional Pedicle Screw-rod on Reduction of Thoracolumbar Fracture

OBJECTIVE

Thoracolumbar fractures are one of the most common fractures in clinical practice. Surgical intervention is recommended to restore spinal alignment or decompress the nerves when there are unstable fractures or neurological injuries. However, after excessive forward thrust force restoration, facet joint dislocation often occurs between the upper vertebra and the fractured vertebra, which usually leads to unsatisfactory reduction outcomes. Herein, we propose a novel spinal facet joint toothed plate to assist in fracture reduction. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the new spinal facet joint toothed plate in preventing facet joint dislocation, and its advantages compared to traditional pedicle screw-rod decompression.

METHODS

A total of 26 patients in the toothed plate group and 93 patients in the traditional group who experienced thoracolumbar fracture with reduction were retrospectively included. Relevant patients' information and clinical parameters were collected. Furthermore, visual analogue scores (VAS) scores and Oswestry disability index (ODI) scores were also collected. Moreover, imaging parameters were calculated based on radiographs. Correlated data were analyzed by χ2 test and t test.

RESULTS

All patients in this study had no postoperative complications. Postoperative VAS scores and ODI scores (p < 0.001) were statistically significant (p < 0.001) in both groups compared with preoperative scores and further decreased (p < 0.001) at final follow-up. In addition, the postoperative vertebral margin ratio (VMR) (p < 0.001) and vertebral angle of the injured vertebrae (p < 0.001) were significantly improved compared with the preoperative period. There were no significant differences in postoperative VAS scores and ODI scores between the two groups. However, toothed plate reduction significantly improved the VMR (p < 0.05) and vertebral angle (p < 0.05) compared with conventional reduction. Ultimately, the total screw accuracy was 98.72% (sum of levels 0 and I), with 100% screw accuracy in the segment related to the tooth plate in the tooth plate group. The dislocation rate was higher in the conventional group (6.45%) than in the new serrated plate repositioning group (0.00%).

CONCLUSION

The facet toothed plate assisted reduction method prevents facet joint dislocation and improves fracture reduction compared to traditional reduction technique, hence it could be considered as a novel surgical strategy for thoracolumbar fracture reduction.

A fully autonomous robotic ultrasound system for thyroid scanning

The current thyroid ultrasound relies heavily on the experience and skills of the sonographer and the expertise of the radiologist, and the process is physically and cognitively exhausting. In this paper, we report a fully autonomous robotic ultrasound system, which is able to scan thyroid regions without human assistance and identify malignant nod- ules. In this system, human skeleton point recognition, reinforcement learning, and force feedback are used to deal with the difficulties in locating thyroid targets. The orientation of the ultrasound probe is adjusted dynamically via Bayesian optimization. Experimental results on human participants demonstrated that this system can perform high-quality ultrasound scans, close to manual scans obtained by clinicians. Additionally, it has the potential to detect thyroid nodules and provide data on nodule characteristics for American College of Radiology Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (ACR TI-RADS) calculation.

Electrochemical Benzylic C-H Amination via N-Aminopyridinium

An electrochemical protocol for benzylic C(sp3)-H aminopyridylation via direct C-H/N-H cross-coupling of alkylarenes with N-aminopyridinium triflate has been developed. This method features excellent site-selectivity, broad substrate scope, redox reagent-free and facile scalability. The generated benzylaminopyridiniums can be readily converted to benzylamines via electroreductive N-N bond cleavage.

Effects of flowing water stimulation on hormone regulation during the maturation process of Conger myriaster ovaries

Conger eel (Conger myriaster) is an economically important species in China. Due to the complex life history of the conger eel, achieving artificial reproduction has remained elusive. This study aimed to explore the effect of water stimulation on hormonal regulation during the artificial reproduction of conger eel. The experiment was divided into four groups: A1 (no hormone injection, still water), A2 (no hormone injection, flowing water), B1 (hormone injection, still water), and B2 (hormone injection, flowing water). The flowing water group maintained a flow velocity of 0.4 ± 0.05 m/s for 12 h daily throughout the 60-day period. Steroid hormone levels in the serum and ovaries of conger eels were analyzed using UPLC-MS/MS and ELISA on the 30th and 60th days of the experiment. The relative expression levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSHβ) and luteinizing hormone (LHβ) in the pituitary were determined by quantitative PCR. The results showed a significantly lower gonadosomatic index (GSI) in B2 compared to B1 (p < 0.05) on the 30th day. FSH was found to act only in the early stages of ovarian development, with water stimulation significantly enhancing FSH synthesis (p < 0.05), while FSHβ gene was not expressed after hormone injection. Conversely, LH was highly expressed in late ovarian development, with flowing water stimulation significantly promoting LH synthesis (p < 0.05). Serum cortisol (COR) levels were significantly higher in the flowing water group than in the still water group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, estradiol (E2) content of B2 was significantly lower than that of B1 on the 30th and 60th day. Overall, flowing water stimulation enhanced the synthesis of FSH in early ovarian development and LH in late ovarian development, while reducing E2 accumulation in the ovaries. In this study, the effect of flowing water stimulation on hormone regulation during the artificial reproduction of conger eel was initially investigated to provide a theoretical basis for optimizing artificial reproduction techniques.

CRISPR-Cas12a based target recognition initiated duplex-specific nuclease enhanced fluorescence and colorimetric analysis of cell-free DNA (cfDNA)

The significant role of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) for disease diagnosis, including cancer, has garnered a lot of attention. The challenges of creating target-specific primers and the possibility of false-positive signals make amplification-based detection methods problematic. Fluorescent biosensors based on CRISPR-Cas have been widely established, however they still require an amplification step before they can be used for detection. To detect cfDNA, researchers have created a CRISPR-Cas12a-based nucleic acid amplification-free fluorescent biosensor that uses a combination of fluorescence and colorimetric signaling improved by duplex-specific nuclease (DSN). DSN-assisted signal recycling is initiated in H1@MBs when the target cfDNA activates the CRISPR-Cas12a complex, leading to the degradation of single-strand DNA (ssDNA) sequences. This method has an extremely high detection limit for the BRCA-1 breast cancer gene. In addition to measuring viral DNA in a field-deployable and point-of-care testing (POCT) platform, this fast and highly selective sensor can be used to evaluate additional nucleic acid biomarkers.

A statistical symptomatic evaluation on SAPHO syndrome from 56 cases of confirmed diagnosis and 352 cases of non-SAPHO involvement

OBJECTIVE

To report a statistical evaluation of symptomatology based on 56 cases of SAPHO syndrome and 352 non-SAPHO involvement cases, to propose a symptomatic scoring system in consideration of early warning for SAPHO syndrome.

METHODS

A cohort comprising 56 subjects diagnosed with SAPHO syndrome was reported, as well as 352 non-SAPHO involvement cases, including their chief complaints, skin manifestations, radiological findings, and laboratory tests. We systematically reviewed previous published five representative huge cohorts from different countries to conclude several specific features of SAPHO by comparing with our case series. The score of each specific index is based on respective incidence and comparison of two cohorts was performed.

RESULT

In terms of complaint rates, all subjects of two cohorts suffered from osseous pain, which appeared in the anterior chest wall, spine, and limb which were calculated. In respect to dermatological lesions, SAPHO patients suffered from severe acne, and other patients (82.14%) accompanied with palmoplantar pustulosis. Having received radiological examinations, most SAPHO subjects rather than non-SAPHO involvement cases showed abnormal osteoarticular lesions under CT scanning and more detailed information under whole-body bone scintigraphy. Differences also emerged in elevation of inflammation values and rheumatic markers like HLA-B27. Based on our cases and huge cohorts documented, the early warning standard is set to be 5 scores.

CONCLUSIONS

SAPHO syndrome case series with 56 subjects were reported and an accumulative scoring system for the early reminder on SAPHO syndrome was proposed. The threshold of this system is set to be 5 points. Key Points • Fifty-six patients diagnosed by SAPHO syndrome with detailed symptoms and radiological findings were reported. • Comparison was made between the 56 SAPHO patients and 352 non-SAPHO involvement cases. • An accumulative scoring system for the early reminder on SAPHO syndrome was proposed and the threshold of this system is set to be five points.

Pentraxin 3 exacerbates psoriasiform dermatitis through regulation of macrophage polarization

OBJECTIVE

To elucidate the mechanism of Pentraxin 3 (PTX3) in the pathogenesis of psoriasiform dermatitis using Ptx3-knockout (Ptx3-KO) background mice.

METHODS

An Imiquimod (IMQ)-induced murine psoriatic model was created using Ptx3-KO (Ptx3-/-) and wild-type (Ptx3+/+) mice. Skin lesion severity and expression of inflammatory mediators (IL-6 and TNFα) were assessed using PASI score and ELISA, respectively. Cutaneous tissues from the two mice groups were subjected to histological analyses, including HE staining, Masson staining, and Immunohistochemistry (IHC). The PTX3, iNOS, COX2, and Arg1 expressions were quantified and compared between the two groups. We used RNA-seq to clarify the underlying mechanisms of the disease. Flow cytometry was used to analyze systemic Th17 cell differentiation and macrophage polarization.

RESULT

The psoriatic region exhibited a higher PTX3 expression than the normal cutaneous area. Moreover, PTX3 was upregulated in HaCaT cells post-TNFα stimulation. Upon IMQ stimulation, Ptx3-/- mice displayed a lower degree of the psoriasiform dermatitis phenotype compared to Ptx3+/+ mice. Consistent with the RNA-seq results, further experiments confirmed that compared to the wild-type group, the PTX3-KO group exhibited a generally lower IL-6, TNFα, iNOS, and COX2 expression and a contrasting trend in macrophage polarization. However, no significant difference in Th17 cell activation was observed between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed that PTX3 was upregulated in psoriatic skin tissues and TNFα-stimulated HaCaT cells. We also discovered that PTX3 deficiency in mice ameliorated the psoriasiform dermatitis phenotype upon IMQ stimulation. Mechanistically, PTX3 exacerbates psoriasiform dermatitis by regulating macrophage polarization rather than Th17 cell differentiation.

Insights on E1-like enzyme ATG7: functional regulation and relationships with aging-related diseases

Autophagy is a dynamic self-renovation biological process that maintains cell homeostasis and is responsible for the quality control of proteins, organelles, and energy metabolism. The E1-like ubiquitin-activating enzyme autophagy-related gene 7 (ATG7) is a critical factor that initiates classic autophagy reactions by promoting the formation and extension of autophagosome membranes. Recent studies have identified the key functions of ATG7 in regulating the cell cycle, apoptosis, and metabolism associated with the occurrence and development of multiple diseases. This review summarizes how ATG7 is precisely programmed by genetic, transcriptional, and epigenetic modifications in cells and the relationship between ATG7 and aging-related diseases.

Piezo1 channel exaggerates ferroptosis of nucleus pulposus cells by mediating mechanical stress-induced iron influx

To date, several molecules have been found to facilitate iron influx, while the types of iron influx channels remain to be elucidated. Here, Piezo1 channel was identified as a key iron transporter in response to mechanical stress. Piezo1-mediated iron overload disturbed iron metabolism and exaggerated ferroptosis in nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs). Importantly, Piezo1-induced iron influx was independent of the transferrin receptor (TFRC), a well-recognized iron gatekeeper. Furthermore, pharmacological inactivation of Piezo1 profoundly reduced iron accumulation, alleviated mitochondrial ROS, and suppressed ferroptotic alterations in stimulation of mechanical stress. Moreover, conditional knockout of Piezo1 (Col2a1-CreERT Piezo1flox/flox) attenuated the mechanical injury-induced intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). Notably, the protective effect of Piezo1 deficiency in IVDD was dampened in Piezo1/Gpx4 conditional double knockout (cDKO) mice (Col2a1-CreERT Piezo1flox/flox/Gpx4flox/flox). These findings suggest that Piezo1 is a potential determinant of iron influx, indicating that the Piezo1-iron-ferroptosis axis might shed light on the treatment of mechanical stress-induced diseases.

Design Principles and Mechanistic Understandings of Non-Noble-Metal Bifunctional Electrocatalysts for Zinc-Air Batteries

Zinc-air batteries (ZABs) are promising energy storage systems because of high theoretical energy density, safety, low cost, and abundance of zinc. However, the slow multi-step reaction of oxygen and heavy reliance on noble-metal catalysts hinder the practical applications of ZABs. Therefore, feasible and advanced non-noble-metal electrocatalysts for air cathodes need to be identified to promote the oxygen catalytic reaction. In this review, we initially introduced the advancement of ZABs in the past two decades and provided an overview of key developments in this field. Then, we discussed the working mechanism and the design of bifunctional electrocatalysts from the perspective of morphology design, crystal structure tuning, interface strategy, and atomic engineering. We also included theoretical studies, machine learning, and advanced characterization technologies to provide a comprehensive understanding of the structure-performance relationship of electrocatalysts and the reaction pathways of the oxygen redox reactions. Finally, we discussed the challenges and prospects related to designing advanced non-noble-metal bifunctional electrocatalysts for ZABs.

First In Vivo Experiment with PulmValve Endobronchial Valve: Feasibility, Efficiency, and Safety

INTRODUCTION

Endoscopic Lung Volume Reduction (ELVR) with endobronchial valves has been widely recognized for treating hyperinflation in advanced COPD and emphysema patients. The main challenges include the technical complexity of upper lobe implantation and the number of endobronchial valves required. These issues might be addressed by placing larger-diameter valves in the lobar bronchus. This study evaluated the feasibility, efficiency, and safety of the new valve PulmValve (model PV-13) in porcine models.

METHODS

Six PV-13 valves were bronchoscopically implanted into the caudal lobe bronchus of six healthy pigs. The procedure time, valve deployment, and removability were recorded. Follow-up examinations included blood tests, chest CT scans, and bronchoscopy at 30 minutes, 14 days, 28 days, and 84 days post-procedure, with necropsy and pathological evaluations after the final follow-up examination.

RESULTS

The successful in vivo deployment and removal of PV-13 valves was established, with a median procedure time of 6.5 minutes. The distal lung volume reduction was evident at 30 minutes post-operation and was persistently monitored on day 84. No migration or malfunction of any PV-13 valves was detected, but a mild angle deviation was found in three cases. Coughing was observed in four pigs within the first seven days, and localized granulation tissue was observed in all pigs. No cases of pneumothorax, diffuse pneumonia, or hemoptysis were detected.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, we report the successful implantation and removal of a new valve PulmValve in a short operation time. Complete lobar atelectasis was induced without device migration, malfunction, or severe complications. Further studies are warranted to evaluate the long-term, sustained effects, and potential benefits in human patients.

Analysis of endoscopic and pathological features of 6961 cases of gastric cancer

Gastric cancer (GC) stage and tissue differentiation affect treatment efficacy and prognosis, highlighting the importance of understanding the risk factors that affect these parameters. Therefore, this study analyzed risk factors affecting the GC stage and differentiation and the relationships between the cancer site and the sex and age of the patient. We collected clinical data from 6961 patients with GC, including sex, age, endoscopic lesion location, and pathological differentiation. Patients were grouped based on GC stage (early or advanced), differentiation (well or poorly differentiated), and lesion site (upper stomach [cardia and fundus], middle stomach [gastric body], and lower stomach [gastric antrum]). Differences in sex, age, location, stage, and degree of differentiation were assessed based on these groupings. Univariate analysis revealed that the disease location and differentiation significantly differed based on the GC stage (P < 0.05), whereas sex, age, site, and stage significantly differed based on GC differentiation (P < 0.05). A multivariate analysis confirmed these factors as independent risk factors affecting GC. Moreover, lesion sites significantly differed between sexes (P < 0.05) and among age groups (P < 0.05). Although the effects of family history, lifestyle, and Helicobacter pylori infection status of the patients were not considered, this single-center retrospective study established independent risk factors for GC.Trial registration ChiCTR2200061989.

Pulmonary thromboembolism associated with hereditary antithrombin III deficiency: A case report

BACKGROUND

Thrombophilia is a coagulation disorder closely associated with venous thromboembolism. Hereditary antithrombin III (AT III) deficiency is a type of genetic thrombophilia. In China, genetic thrombophilia patients mainly suffer from deficiencies in AT III, protein S, and protein C. Multiple mutations in the serpin family C member 1 (SERPINC1) can affect AT III activity, resulting in thrombosis.

CASE PRESENTATION

This case presented a 17-year-old adolescent female who developed lower extremity venous thrombosis and subsequently pulmonary embolism (PE) following a right leg injury. A missense mutation in gene SERPINC1 of c.331 T > C, p.S111P was detected on the patient, resulting in a decreased AT III activity and an elevated risk of thrombosis. The patient received anticoagulation treatment for approximately 5 months. During follow-up, the blood clot gradually dissolved, and there have been no recurrent thrombotic events reported thus far.

DISCUSSION

Hereditary AT deficiency can be classified into two types based on the plasma levels of the enzymatic activity and antigen. Type I is a quantitative defect, while Type II is a qualitive defect. Until 2021, 486 SERPINC1 gene mutations have been registered, more than 18% of which are point mutations. The SERPINC1 mutation c.331 T > C in was firstly reported in 2017, which was classified into type I AT III deficiency.

CONCLUSION

Hereditary thrombophilia is a coagulation disorder with a high omission diagnostic rate. Minor mutations in the SERPINC1 gene can also lead to hereditary AT III deficiency, which in turn can cause PE. We emphasized the importance of etiological screening for hereditary thrombophilia in venous thromboembolism patients without obvious high-risk factors. Long-term anticoagulation treatment and avoidance of potential thrombosis risk factors are critical for such patients.

Influence of Biotite Content on the Mechanical Response of Granite Using a Novel Three-Dimensional Grain-Based Model and Force Chain Analysis

In this study, a three-dimensional grain-based model based on the discrete element method is utilized to replicate the heterogeneous structure of crystalline granite, and corresponding laboratory tests are conducted to validate the numerical conclusions. A novel model and an analytical method involving a multilevel force chain network are employed to quantitatively investigate the influence of mineral content on the mechanical behavior of granites. First, a set of granite specimens with varying biotite contents is constructed, and then, uniaxial compression tests are conducted. The effects of the mineral content on the mechanical behavior, force chain network characteristics, and fracture resistance of granite specimens are quantitatively analyzed. The results indicate an inverse relationship between the biotite (VB) content and the load-bearing capacity of granite under uniaxial compression conditions. As VB increases, the number of contacts within the biotite structure increases, as does the force chain distribution density within the biotite structure, while the force chain distribution density in other intragranular structures correspondingly decreases. The average values and sum values of all of the force chains in the whole specimen decrease with increasing VB. Among the various structures, intragranular structures exhibit the highest fracture resistance, whereas intergranular structures exhibit lower resistance.

Pulmonary arterial sarcoma: A case report

RATIONALE

Pulmonary artery sarcoma (PAS) is a rare malignant tumor primarily originating from the pulmonary artery's intima or subintima. Approximately one-third of cases are classified as undifferentiated type. Its clinical manifestations lack specificity, dyspnea is the main symptom but can also present with chest pain, cough, hemoptysis, and other discomforts, making it prone to misdiagnosis as pulmonary embolism (PE).

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 50-year-old woman was admitted to the hospital with "dyspnea for more than 3 months, aggravated for 2 days," and computed tomography pulmonary angiography suggesting "bilateral multiple pulmonary embolisms."

DIAGNOSES

The patient was initially misdiagnosed as PE, and was later definitively diagnosed as undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma of the pulmonary artery by pathologic biopsy.

INTERVENTIONS AND OUTCOMES

The patient was initially treated with anticoagulant therapy, but her dyspnea was not relieved. After that, she underwent positron emission computed tomography (PET-CT) and other investigations, which suggested the possibility of PAS, and then she underwent pulmonary endarterectomy to remove the lesion, which relieved her symptoms and was advised to seek further medical attention from the Department of Oncology and Department of Radiotherapy.

LESSONS

PAS can be easily misdiagnosed as PE. If a diagnosis of PE is made, but anticoagulation or even thrombolytic therapy proves ineffective, and there is no presence of PE causative factors such as deep vein thrombosis in the lower extremities, or D-dimer levels are not high, one should be cautious and consider the possibility of PAS.

Development and Application of an Advanced Biomedical Material-Silk Sericin

Sericin, a protein derived from silkworm cocoons, is considered a waste product derived from the silk industry for thousands of years due to a lack of understanding of its properties. However, in recent decades, a range of exciting properties of sericin are studied and uncovered, including cytocompatibility, low-immunogenicity, photo-luminescence, antioxidant properties, as well as cell-function regulating activities. These properties make sericin-based biomaterials promising candidates for biomedical applications. This review summarizes the properties and bioactivities of silk sericin and highlights the latest developments in sericin in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Furthermore, the extended application of sericin in developing flexible electronic devices and 3D bioprinting is also discussed. It is believed that sericin-based biomaterials have great potential of being developed into novel tissue engineering products and smart implantable devices for various medical applications toward improving clinical outcomes.

The Wound Healing of Autologous Regenerative Factor on Recurrent Benign Airway Stenosis: A Canine Experimental and Pilot Study

INTRODUCTION

Benign airway stenosis (BAS) is a severe pathologic condition. Complex stenosis has a high recurrence rate and requires repeated bronchoscopic interventions for achieving optimal control, leading to recurrent BAS (RBAS) due to intraluminal granulation.

METHODS

This study explored the potential of autologous regenerative factor (ARF) for treating RBAS using a post-intubation tracheal stenosis canine model. Bronchoscopic follow-ups were conducted, and RNA-seq analysis of airway tissue was performed. A clinical study was also initiated involving 17 patients with recurrent airway stenosis.

RESULTS

In the animal model, ARF demonstrated significant effectiveness in preventing further collapse of the injured airway, maintaining airway patency and promoting tissue regeneration. RNA-seq results showed differential gene expression, signifying alterations in cellular components and signaling pathways. The clinical study found that ARF treatment was well-tolerated by patients with no severe adverse events requiring hospitalization. ARF treatment yielded a high response rate, especially for post-intubation tracheal stenosis and idiopathic tracheal stenosis patients.

CONCLUSION

The study concludes that ARF presents a promising, effective, and less-invasive method for treating RBAS. ARF has shown potential in prolonging the intermittent period and reducing treatment failure in patients with recurrent tracheal stenosis by facilitating tracheal mucosal wound repair and ameliorating tracheal fibrosis. This novel approach could significantly impact future clinical applications.

Role of Post-Translational Modifications in Colorectal Cancer Metastasis

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignant tumors of the digestive tract. CRC metastasis is a multi-step process with various factors involved, including genetic and epigenetic regulations, which turn out to be a serious threat to CRC patients. Post-translational modifications (PTMs) of proteins involve the addition of chemical groups, sugars, or proteins to specific residues, which fine-tunes a protein's stability, localization, or interactions to orchestrate complicated biological processes. An increasing number of recent studies suggest that dysregulation of PTMs, such as phosphorylation, ubiquitination, and glycosylation, play pivotal roles in the CRC metastasis cascade. Here, we summarized recent advances in the role of post-translational modifications in diverse aspects of CRC metastasis and its detailed molecular mechanisms. Moreover, advances in drugs targeting PTMs and their cooperation with other anti-cancer drugs, which might provide novel targets for CRC treatment and improve therapeutic efficacy, were also discussed.

Study on the flow mechanism and frequency characteristics of rales in lower respiratory tract

The frequency characteristics of lung sounds have great significance for noninvasive diagnosis of respiratory diseases. The rales in the lower respiratory tract region that can provide rich information about symptoms of respiratory diseases are not clear. In this paper, a three-dimensional idealized bifurcated lower respiratory tract geometric model, which contains 3rd to 13th generation (G3-G13) bronchi is constructed, where Re ∼ 10 1 - 10 3 , and then the large eddy simulation and volume of fluid are used to study the fluid flow characteristics. Ffowcs Williams and Hawkings model are subsequently used to study the frequency characteristics of rale of different generations of bronchi. The results showed that bronchial blockage and sputum movement will enhance the turbulence intensity and vortex shedding intensity of flow. The dominant frequency and highest value of sound pressure level (SPL) of rhonchi/moist crackles decrease with the increase of bronchial generation. The change rates of dominant frequency of rhonchi / moist crackles in adjacent generations were 5.0 ± 0.1 ~ 9.1 ± 0.2% and 3.1 ± 0.1 ~ 11.9 ± 0.3%, respectively, which is concentrated in 290 ~ 420 Hz and 200 ~ 300 Hz, respectively. The change rates of SPL of rhonchi/moist crackles were 8.8 ± 0.1 ~ 15.7 ± 0.1% and 7.1 ± 0.1 ~ 19.5 ± 0.2%, respectively, which is concentrated in 28 ~ 50 dB and 16 ~ 32 dB, respectively. In the same generation of bronchus (e.g., G8, G9) with the same degree of initial blockage, the dominant frequency and SPL of moist crackles can be 3.7 ± 0.2% and 4.5 ± 0.3% slightly higher than that of rhonchi, respectively. This research is conducive to the establishment of a rapid and accurate noninvasive diagnosis system for respiratory diseases.

[Circ_0026134 regulates the miR-1270/GRB2 pathway to affect the radiosensitivity of hepatoma cells]

Objective: To investigate whether circular RNA 0026134 (circ_0026134) affects the radiosensitivity of hepatoma cells by regulating the miR-1270/growth factor receptor-bound protein 2 (GRB2) pathway. Methods: Real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was used to detect the expression levels of circ_0026134, miR-1270, and GRB2 in liver cancer tissues and cells. Bioinformatics analysis, a dual-luciferase gene reporter assay, RT-qPCR, and western blot were used to analyze the targeting relationships between circ_0026134 and miR-1270 and miR-1270 and GRB2. The effects of circ_0026134, miR-1270, and GRB2 expression combined with 6 Gy on the proliferation, invasion, migration, and apoptosis of Huh7 and SK-HEP-1 cells were detected by a cell counting kit, a transwell assay, a scratch assay, and flow cytometry. The tumorigenesis experiment was used to detect the effect of silencing circ_0026134 in nude mice. Measurement data are expressed as the mean ± standard deviation. The independent sample t-test was used for comparison between two groups, and the one-way analysis of variance and SNK-q test were used for comparison between multiple groups. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The expression levels of circ_0026134 and GRB2, Huh7, and SK-HEP-1 cells in liver cancer tissues were significantly increased, while the expression levels of miR-1270 were significantly decreased (P < 0.05). The expression of circ_0026134 in Huh7 and SK-HEP-1 decreased significantly after radiotherapy (P < 0.05). circ_0026134 binds directly to miR-1270 and negatively regulates miR-1270 expression (P < 0.05). miR-1270 binds directly to GRB2 and negatively regulates GRB2 expression (P < 0.05). 6 Gy radiation significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of Huh7 and SK-HEP-1 cells and induced apoptosis (P < 0.05). Silencing circ_0026134 or overexpression of miR-1270 significantly enhanced the anti-proliferation, anti-migration, invasion, and pro-apoptosis effects of 6 Gy treatment on hepatoma cells (P < 0.05). Inhibition of miR-1270 significantly weakened the effects of silencing circ_0026134 combined with 6 Gy radiation on proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis of hepatoma cells (P < 0.05). Overexpression of GRB2 significantly weakened the effects of miR-1270 overexpression combined with 6 Gy radiation on proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis of hepatoma cells (P < 0.05). circ_0026134 knockdown significantly delayed tumor growth in vivo (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Silencing circ_0026134 strengthens radiation treatment's anti-proliferation, anti-migration, invasion, and pro-apoptotic effects in hepatoma cells by negatively regulating the miR-1270/GRB2 pathway, thereby enhancing radiosensitivity.

Regulated secretion of mutant p53 negatively affects T lymphocytes in the tumor microenvironment

Several studies have demonstrated the role of the oncogenic mutant p53 in promoting tumor progression; however, there is limited information on the effects of secreted oncogenic mutant p53 on the tumor microenvironment and tumor immune escape. In this study, we found that secretion of mutant p53, determined by exosome content, is dependent on its N-terminal dileucine motif via its binding to β-adaptin, and inhibited by the CHK2-mediated-Ser 20 phosphorylation. Moreover, we observed that the mutant p53 caused downregulation and dysfunction of CD4+ T lymphocytes in vivo and downregulated the levels and activities of rate-limiting glycolytic enzymes in vitro. Furthermore, inhibition of mutant p53 secretion by knocking down AP1B1 or mutation of dileucine motif could reverse the quantity and function of CD4+ T lymphocytes and restrain the tumor growth. Our study demonstrates that the tumor-derived exosome-mediated secretion of oncogenic mutant p53 inhibits glycolysis to alter the immune microenvironment via functional suppression of CD4+ T cells, which may be the underlying mechanism for tumor immune escape. Therefore, targeting TDE-mediated p53 secretion may serve as a potential therapeutic target for cancer treatment.

Preceding neurosurgery is not needed for presumed adolescent idiopathic scoliosis with syringomyelia: a 10-year longitudinal comparative study

Background

One-stage scoliosis correction surgery is safe for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), but it is not yet known whether it is safe for presumed AIS (PAIS). This study sought to investigate the safety and efficacy of one-stage scoliosis correction surgery for PAIS associated with syringomyelia from multiple perspectives by conducting an analysis of 10-year consecutive cases.

Methods

A retrospective study of all consecutive cases of patients diagnosed with PAIS associated with syringomyelia or AIS from January 2011 to January 2020 was performed. The main radiographic parameters and clinical function scores before, immediately after, and at the last follow-up were collected or measured. Three-dimensional (3D) models of spinal canal length were generated, refined, measured, and compared between the PAIS and AIS groups.

Results

In total, 318 patients with AIS and 47 patients with PAIS associated with syringomyelia were included in the study. There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of changes in the Cobb angle of the main curve (MC), thoracic kyphosis (TK), coronal balance (CB), sagittal vertical axis (SVA), Oswestry disability index (ODI), Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22) score, cervical and thoracolumbar spinal canal length, and whole spinal canal length before and after the surgery (P>0.05). The changes in the thoracolumbar and whole spinal canal length were significantly positively correlated with the improvement rate of the MC (P<0.05), but were not significantly correlated with the improvement rate of TK, the SRS-22 score, and the ODI (P>0.05).

Conclusions

In relation to the main radiologic parameters, clinical function scores, and 3D biomechanics, one-stage posterior correction surgery was found to be safe and effective for patients with PAIS associated with syringomyelia.

[Research progress on distribution characteristics and health risk assessment of bioaerosols in medical institutions]

Bioaerosols in healthcare facilities are closely related to the health of medical staff and patients. Inhalation of microbial aerosol particles can lead to both infectious and non-infectious diseases. However, a systematic summary of bioaerosol types, sources, impact factors and health risk analysis is lacking.This article condutcted a literature review to understand the distribution characteristics, sources, influencing factors and health risks of bioaerosols in healthcare facilities, both domestically and internationally. The goal is to increase awareness of the distribution characteristics of bioaerosols in healthcare facilities and health risk of bioaerosols in medical institutions. This article also provides a reference for prevention and control of bioaerosols.

[The impact of the highest mediastinal lymph node metastasis on postoperative recurrence and survival in non-small cell lung cancer patients]

Objective: To examine whether the highest mediastinal lymph node (HMLN) metastasis had an influence on postoperative recurrence and survival among non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with pN2 lymph node metastasis. Methods: A total of 261 patients who underwent radical resection of lung cancer and systematic lymph node dissection in the Department of Thoracic Surgery of Peking University First Hospital from January 2007 to December 2016 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 180 males and 81 females, aged (61.5±9.4) years (range: 31 to 83 years). There were 128 cases of HMLN-positive and 133 cases of HMLN-negative. They were pathologically confirmed N2 stage NSCLC and postoperative recurrence and survival were followed up. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to calculate disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) curves according to whether HMLN metastasize or not. The Cox proportional hazards regression model was used for the prognostic analysis. Results: The median DFS and the median OS of the whole group were 28 months and 44 months, respectively. The median DFS in HMLN-positive and HMLN-negative patients was 19 months and 33 months, respectively (P=0.005). The median OS of HMLN-positive and HMLN-negative group was 37 months and 49 months, respectively (P=0.005). Multivariate analysis showed that pneumonectomy and visceral pleural invasion were independent risk factors for both postoperative OS (HR=1.85, 95%CI: 1.25 to 2.72, P=0.002; HR=1.82, 95%CI: 1.30 to 2.56, P=0.007) and DFS (HR=1.61, 95%CI: 1.10 to 2.35, P=0.014; HR=1.77, 95%CI: 1.27 to 2.46,P=0.001). HMLN metastasis and lymphovascular invasion were independent risk factors for only postoperative DFS (HR=1.39, 95%CI: 1.03 to 1.87, P=0.030; HR=1.40, 95%CI: 0.99 to 1.81, P=0.042). Conclusions: For patients of pN2 stage NSCLC, both postoperative recurrence and long-term survival were significantly worse in the HMLN metastatic group. In addition, pneumonectomy and visceral pleural invasion were unfavorable factors that affected both recurrence and overall survival. HMLN metastasis and lymphovascular invasion could shorten the postoperative time for DFS.

Clinical effect of stem cell transplantation combined with 308-nm excimer laser therapy for 56 cases of vitiligo

OBJECTIVE

To probe the clinical effect of stem cell transplantation in combination with 308-nm excimer laser therapy for vitiligo and to analyze its value in clinical application.

METHODS

A total of 56 patients with stable non-segmental vitiligo in different parts who were not cured by other therapies visiting our hospital from March 2019 to December 2021 were enrolled as study subjects. They were treated by stem cell transplantation combined with 308-nm excimer laser therapy. The treatment efficacy was observed and analyzed.

RESULTS

Among the 56 patients, 38 (67.85%) and 49 (87.5%) patients were cured at 6 and 12 months after treatment, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Stem cell transplantation combined with 308-nm excimer laser therapy for vitiligo achieves significant efficacy, with the cure rate far superior to that of other therapies for vitiligo. The therapy is worthy of popularization in the clinic.

The deubiquitinase USP10 mediates crosstalk between the LKB1/AMPK axis and Wnt/β-catenin signaling in cancer

The liver kinase B1 (LKB1)/AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) axis pivotally controls cell metabolism and suppresses abnormal growth in various cancers. Wnt/β-catenin is a frequently dysregulated signaling pathway that drives oncogenesis. Here, we discovered a crosstalk mechanism between the LKB1/AMPK axis and Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Activated AMPK phosphorylates the deubiquitinase USP10 to potentiate the deubiquitination and stabilization of the key scaffold protein Axin1. This phosphorylation also strengthens the binding between USP10 and β-catenin and supports the phase transition of β-catenin. Both processes suppress Wnt/β-catenin amplitude in parallel and inhibit colorectal cancer growth in a clinically relevant manner. Collectively, we established a crosstalk route by which LKB1/AMPK regulates Wnt/β-catenin signaling in cancer. USP10 acts as the hub in this process, thus enabling LKB1/AMPK to suppress tumor growth via regulation of both metabolism and cell proliferation.

ATM-CHK2-TRIM32 axis regulates ATG7 ubiquitination to initiate autophagy under oxidative stress

Oxidative stress-induced autophagy helps to prevent cellular damage and to maintain homeostasis. However, the regulatory pathway that initiates autophagy remains unclear. We previously showed that reactive oxygen species (ROS) function as signaling molecules to activate the ATM-CHK2 pathway and promote autophagy. Here, we find that the E3 ubiquitin ligase TRIM32 functions downstream of ATM-CHK2 to regulate ATG7 ubiquitination. Under metabolic stress, ROS induce ATM phosphorylation at S1981, which in turn phosphorylates CHK2 at T68. We show that CHK2 binds and phosphorylates TRIM32 at the S55 site, which then mediates K63-linked ubiquitination of ATG7 at the K45 site to initiate autophagy. In addition, Chk2-/- mice show an aggravated infarction phenotype and reduced phosphorylation of TRIM32 and ubiquitination of ATG7 in a stroke model. We propose a molecular mechanism for autophagy initiation by ROS via the ATM-CHK2-TRIM32-ATG7 axis to maintain intracellular homeostasis and to protect cells exposed to pathological conditions from stress-induced tissue damage.

Chimeric antigen receptor T cells to target CD79b in B-cell lymphomas

BACKGROUND

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells targeting CD19 mediate potent and durable effects in B-cell malignancies. However, antigen loss or downregulation is a frequent cause of resistance. Here, we report development of a novel CAR T-cell therapy product to target CD79b, a pan B-cell antigen, widely expressed in most B-cell lymphomas.

METHODS

We generated a novel anti-CD79b monoclonal antibody by hybridoma method. The specificity of the antibody was determined by testing against isogenic cell lines with human CD79b knock-in or knock-out. A single-chain variable fragment derived from the monoclonal antibody was used to make a panel of CD79b-targeting CAR molecules containing various hinge, transmembrane, and co-stimulatory domains. These were lentivirally transduced into primary T cells and tested for antitumor activity in in vitro and in vivo B-cell lymphoma models.

RESULTS

We found that the novel anti-CD79b monoclonal antibody was highly specific and bound only to human CD79b and no other cell surface protein. In testing the various CD79b-targeting CAR molecules, superior antitumor efficacy in vitro and in vivo was found for a CAR consisting CD8α hinge and transmembrane domains, an OX40 co-stimulatory domain, and a CD3ζ signaling domain. This CD79b CAR specifically recognized human CD79b-expressing lymphoma cell lines but not CD79b knock-out cell lines. CD79b CAR T cells, generated from T cells from either healthy donors or patients with lymphoma, proliferated, produced cytokines, degranulated, and exhibited robust cytotoxic activity in vitro against CD19+ and CD19- lymphoma cell lines and patient-derived lymphoma tumors relapsing after prior CD19 CAR T-cell therapy. Furthermore, CD79b CAR T cells were highly efficient at eradicating pre-established lymphoma tumors in vivo in three aggressive lymphoma xenograft models, including two cell line-derived xenografts and one patient-derived xenograft. Notably, these CAR T cells did not demonstrate any significant tonic signaling activity or markers of exhaustion.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicated that this novel CD79b CAR T-cell therapy product has robust antitumor activity against B-cell lymphomas. These results supported initiation of a phase 1 clinical trial to evaluate this product in patients with relapsed or refractory B-cell lymphomas.

A multifunctional optoelectronic device based on 2D material with wide bandgap

Low-dimensional materials exhibit unique quantum confinement effects and morphologies as a result of their nanoscale size in one or more dimensions, making them exhibit distinctive physical properties compared to bulk counterparts. Among all low-dimensional materials, due to their atomic level thickness, two-dimensional materials possess extremely large shape anisotropy and consequently are speculated to have large optically anisotropic absorption. In this work, we demonstrate an optoelectronic device based on the combination of two-dimensional material and carbon dot with wide bandgap. High-efficient luminescence of carbon dot and extremely large shape anisotropy (>1500) of two-dimensional material with the wide bandgap of >4 eV cooperatively endow the optoelectronic device with multi-functions of optically anisotropic blue-light emission, visible light modulation, wavelength-dependent ultraviolet-light detection as well as blue fluorescent film assemble. This research opens new avenues for constructing multi-function-integrated optoelectronic devices via the combination of nanomaterials with different dimensions.

USP10 strikes down β-catenin by dual-wielding deubiquitinase activity and phase separation potential

Wnt/β-catenin signaling is a conserved pathway crucially governing development, homeostasis, and oncogenesis. Discoveries of its regulators hold great values in both basic and translational research. Through screening, we identified a deubiquitinase, USP10, as a critical modulator of β-catenin. Mechanistically, USP10 binds to key scaffold Axin1 via conserved motifs and stabilizes Axin1 through K48-linked deubiquitination. Surprisingly, USP10 physically tethers Axin1 and β-catenin and promotes the phase separation for β-catenin suppression regardless of the enzymatic activity. Function-wise, USP10 enzymatic activity preferably regulates embryonic development and both the enzymatic activity and physical function jointly control intestinal homeostasis by antagonizing β-catenin. In colorectal cancer, USP10 substantially represses cancer growth mainly through physical promotion of phase separation and correlates with Wnt/β-catenin magnitude clinically. Collectively, we discovered USP10 functioning in multiple biological processes against β-catenin and unearthed the enzyme-dependent and -independent "dual-regulating" mechanism. These two functions of USP10 work in parallel and are context dependent.

Autologous CIK cells combined with chemotherapy as the first-line treatment for locally advanced or metastatic gastric cancer is safe and feasible

Aim

To evaluate the safety and initial efficacy of autologous cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cells combined with S-1+oxaliplatin (SOX) as the first-line treatment for locally advanced or metastatic gastric cancer (GC).

Materials and methods

In this two-arm, single-center exploratory trial, patients with locally advanced or metastatic GC were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive autologous CIK cells in combination with SOX (CIK-SOX) or SOX alone. The primary endpoint was the incidence of adverse events (AEs). Progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), objective response rate (ORR), and disease control rate (DCR) served as the secondary endpoints.

Results

Fifty-nine patients were enrolled in the study between November 20, 2014 and September 6, 2017. A total of 31 patients received CIK-SOX and 28 patients received SOX. The most common AEs in both groups were gastrointestinal reaction, leucopenia, neutropenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, hyperbilirubinemia, and elevated aspartate transaminase concentration, with a higher incidence of these conditions in the SOX group. The median PFS for the CIK-SOX and SOX groups was 6.9 and 4.9 months, respectively (hazard ratio (HR) 0.80, p=0.45). The respective median OS values were 17.8 and 9.75 months (HR 0.76, p=0.34). Patients who received more than three injections of specific lymphocyte subsets benefited the most from this combination therapy. Cox univariate and multivariate analyses showed that tumor metastasis to more than two organs was the main risk factor for PFS and OS. A total of 29 patients in the CIK-SOX group and 25 in the SOX group had measurable lesions. The ORR for the CIK-SOX and SOX groups was 55.2% and 32.0%, while the DCR was 93.1% and 88.0%, respectively.

Conclusion

The safety of CIK-SOX as the first-line treatment for patients with locally advanced or metastatic GC was good. Although the PFS and OS in the CIK-SOX group were not statistically significantly different compared to the values in the SOX alone group, this treatment increased the PFS and OS duration, with the absolute improvement in OS of about 8.05 months. Continuous benefit from the CIK-SOX treatment was observed during long-term follow-up.

Clinical trial registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT02504229?term=NCT02504229&rank=1, identifier ChiCTR-IPR-15005923; NCT02504229.

Surface Treat Method to Improve the Adhesion between Stainless Steel and Resin: A Review

Combining metal and polymer into hybrid composite materials is finding increasing interest in many industries. Special attention is being paid to increase the adhesion between the metal and polymer interface. In this paper, the current research progress of surface treatment methods for improving the interfacial adhesion of stainless steel and resin is reviewed. It involves the stainless steel surface treatment method, resin surface treatment method, and adhesion test methods of stainless steel and resin. The methods of improving the interfacial adhesion of stainless steel and resin are summarized and prospected according to the research status.

[Advances in the raw material selection and functional design of artificial nerve guidance conduits]

Artificial nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) are synthetic nerve grafts that are capable of providing the structural and nutritional support for nerve regeneration. The ideal NGCs have plenty of requirements on biocompatibility, mechanical strength, topological structure, and conductivity. Therefore, it is necessary to continuously improve the design of NGCs and establish a better therapeutic strategy for peripheral nerve injury in order to meet clinical needs. Although current NGCs have made certain process in the treatment of peripheral nerve injury, their nerve regeneration and functional outcomes on repairing long-distance nerve injury remain unsatisfactory. Herein, we review the nerve conduit design from four aspects, namely raw material selection, structural design, therapeutic factor loading and self-powered component integration. Moreover, we summarize the research progress of NGCs in the treatment of peripheral nerve injury, in order to facilitate the iterative updating and clinical transformation of NGCs.

Porous Molybdenum Nitride Nanosphere as Carrier-Free and Efficient Nitric Oxide Donor for Synergistic Nitric Oxide and Chemo/Sonodynamic Therapy

Given its abundant physiological functions, nitric oxide (NO) has attracted much attention as a cancer therapy. The sensitive release and great supply capacity are significant indicators of NO donors and their performance. Here, a transition metal nitride (TMN) MoN@PEG is adopted as an efficient NO donor. The release process starts with H+-triggered denitrogen owing to the high electronegativity of the N atom and weak Mo-N bond. Then, these active NHx are oxidized by O2 and other reactive oxygen species (ROS) to form NO, endowing specific release to the tumor microenvironment (TME). With a porous nanosphere structure (80 nm), MoN@PEG does not require an extra carrier for NO delivery, contributing to ultrahigh atomic utilization for outstanding release ability (94.1 ± 5.6 μM). In addition, it can also serve as a peroxidase and sonosensitizer for anticancer treatment. To further improve the charge separation, MoN-Pt@PEG was prepared to enhance the sonodynamic therapy (SDT) effect. Accordingly, ultrasound (US) further promotes NO generation due to more ROS generation, facilitating in situ peroxynitrite (·ONOO-) generation with great cytotoxicity. At the same time, the nanostructure also degrades gradually, leading to high elimination (94.6%) via feces and urine within 14-day. The synergistic NO and chemo-/sono-dynamic therapy brings prominent antitumor efficiency and further activates the immune response to inhibit metastasis and recurrence. This work develops a family of NO donors that would further widen the application of NO therapy in other fields.

Pentraxin 3 deficiency ameliorates the severity of osteoarthritis and alleviates inflammation

BACKGROUND

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common degenerative joint disorders, characterized by articular cartilage breakdown, synovitis, osteophytes generation and subchondral bone sclerosis. Pentraxin 3 (PTX3) is a long pentraxin protein, secreted by immune cells, and PTX3 is identified to play a critical role in inflammation and macrophage polarization. However, the underlying mechanism of PTX3 in osteoarthritis under the circumstance of Ptx3-knockout (KO) mice model is still unknown.

METHODS

Murine destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM) OA model was created in Ptx3-knockout (KO) and wildtype mice, respectively. The degenerative status of cartilage was detected by Safranin O, H&E staining, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and micro-CT. OARSI scoring was employed to assess the proteoglycan of cartilage. Serum inflammatory cytokines were examined by ELISA and systematic macrophage polarization in spleen was analyzed by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Safranin O and H&E staining confirmed that the joint cartilage was mostly with reduced degeneration in both the senior KO mice and the DMM model generated from the KO mice, compared to the WT group. This is also supported by micro-CT examination and OARSI scoring. Immunohistochemistry illustrated an up-regulation of Aggrecan and Collagen 2 and down-regulation of ADAMTS-5 and MMP13 in KO mice in comparison with the WT mice. ELISA indicated a dramatical decrease in the serum levels of TNF-α and IL-6 in KO mice. Polarization of M2-like macrophages was observed in the KO group.

CONCLUSION

Pentraxin 3 deficiency significantly ameliorated the severity of osteoarthritis by preventing cartilage degeneration and alleviated systematic inflammation by inducing M2 polarization.

Boosting the Lithium-Ion Transport Kinetics of Sn-Based Coordination Polymers through Ligand Aromaticity Manipulation

Tin-based compounds are promising anode materials for lithium-ion batteries owing to their low charge/discharge voltage and high theoretical capacity but are plagued by both huge volume expansion during cycling and complex synthetic procedures. Constructing a coordination network between Sn and the lithium-active organic matrix can effectively relieve the volume expansion and increase the lithium storage active site utilization. Herein, we report a facile method to prepare two one-dimensional Sn-based coordination polymers [Sn(Hcta)]n (1) and [Sn(Hbtc)]n (2) (H3cta = 1,3,5-cyclohexanetricarboxylic acid, H3btc = 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylic acid) for lithium storage, which differ only in the aromaticity of the ligand. 2 with an aromatic ligand provided a reversible capacity of 833 mAh g-1 at 200 mA g-1 over 160 cycles, higher than that of 1 without an aromatic ligand due to the quick charge transfer. The reversible lithium storage reactions of metal centers and organic ligands and the volume expansion rate of Sn-based coordination polymers during cycling were studied by detailed characterization and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. This research revealed that the structural factor of ligand aromaticity in these Sn-based coordination polymers boosted the utilization of active sites and rapid charge transfer, offering a coordination chemistry strategy for the design and synthesis of advanced anode materials.

Improved Interlaminar Properties of Glass Fiber/Epoxy Laminates by the Synergic Modification of Soft and Rigid Particles

Poor interlaminar fracture toughness has been a major issue in glass fiber-reinforced epoxy resin (GF/EP) laminate composites. In this paper, soft carboxy-terminated nitrile (CTBN) rubber particles and rigid nano-SiO2 are used to toughen the epoxy resin (EP) matrix to improve the interlayer properties of GF/EP laminate composites. The effects of adding two toughening agents on the mechanical and interlayer properties of GF/EP laminates were studied. The results showed that adding the two kinds of particles improved the mechanical properties of the epoxy matrix. When the additional amount of flexible CTBN rubber particles was 8 wt%, and the rigid nano-SiO2 was 0.5 wt%, the fracture toughness of the matrix resin was increased by 215.8%, and the tensile strength was only decreased by 2.3% compared with the pure epoxy resin. On this basis, the effects of two kinds of particles on the interlayer properties of GF/EP composites were studied. Compared with the unmodified GF/EP laminates, the interlayer shear strength and mode I interlayer fracture toughness is significantly improved by a toughening agent, and the energy release rate GIC of interlayer shear strength and interlayer fracture toughness is increased by 109.2%, and 86.8%, respectively. The flexible CTBN rubber particles and rigid nano-SiO2 improve the interfacial adhesion between GF and EP. The cavitation of the two particles and the plastic deformation of the matrix is the toughening mechanism of the interlayer properties of the composite. Such excellent interlaminar mechanical properties make it possible for GF/EP laminates to be widely used as engineering materials in various industries (e.g., aerospace, hydrogen energy, marine).

Atorvastatin rescues vascular endothelial injury in hypertension by WWP2-mediated ubiquitination and degradation of ATP5A

As a widely used lipid-lowering drug in clinical practice, atorvastatin is widely recognized for its role in protecting vascular endothelium in the cardiovascular system. However, a clear mechanistic understanding of its action is lacking. Here, we found that atorvastatin counteracted angiotensin II-induced vascular endothelial injury in mice with hypertension. Mechanistically, atorvastatin up-regulated WWP2, a E6AP C-terminus (HECT)-type E3 ubiquitin ligase with an essential role in regulating protein ubiquitination and various biological processes, thereby rescuing vascular endothelial injury. By ubiquitinating ATP5A (ATP synthase mitochondrial F1 complex subunit alpha), WWP2 degraded ATP5A via the proteasome pathway, stabilizing Bcl-2/Bax in the mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis. Moreover, atorvastatin further ameliorated death of vascular endothelial cells and improved vascular endothelial functions under WWP2 overexpression, whereas WWP2 knockout abrogated these beneficial effects of atorvastatin. Furthermore, we generated endothelial cell-specific WWP2 knockout mice, and this WWP2-mediated mechanism was faithfully recapitulated in vivo. Thus, we propose that activation of a WWP2-dependent pathway that is pathologically repressed in damaged vascular endothelium under hypertension is a major mechanism of atorvastatin. Our findings are also pertinent to develop novel therapeutic strategies for vascular endothelial injury-related cardiovascular diseases.

Role of non-canonical post-translational modifications in gastrointestinal tumors

Post-translational modifications (PTMs) of proteins contribute to the occurrence and development of tumors. Previous studies have suggested that canonical PTMs such as ubiquitination, glycosylation, and phosphorylation are closely implicated in different aspects of gastrointestinal tumors. Recently, emerging evidence showed that non-canonical PTMs play an essential role in the carcinogenesis, metastasis and treatment of gastrointestinal tumors. Therefore, we summarized recent advances in sumoylation, neddylation, isoprenylation, succinylation and other non-canonical PTMs in gastrointestinal tumors, which comprehensively describe the mechanisms and functions of non-classical PTMs in gastrointestinal tumors. It is anticipated that targeting specific PTMs could benefit the treatment as well as improve the prognosis of gastrointestinal tumors.

α-myosin heavy chain lactylation maintains sarcomeric structure and function and alleviates the development of heart failure

The sarcomeric interaction of α-myosin heavy chain (α-MHC) with Titin is vital for cardiac structure and contraction. However, the mechanism regulating this interaction in normal and failing hearts remains unknown. Lactate is a crucial energy substrate of the heart. Here, we identify that α-MHC undergoes lactylation on lysine 1897 to regulate the interaction of α-MHC with Titin. We observed a reduction of α-MHC K1897 lactylation in mice and patients with heart failure. Loss of K1897 lactylation in α-MHC K1897R knock-in mice reduces α-MHC-Titin interaction and leads to impaired cardiac structure and function. Furthermore, we identified that p300 and Sirtuin 1 act as the acyltransferase and delactylase of α-MHC, respectively. Decreasing lactate production by chemical or genetic manipulation reduces α-MHC lactylation, impairs α-MHC-Titin interaction and worsens heart failure. By contrast, upregulation of the lactate concentration by administering sodium lactate or inhibiting the pivotal lactate transporter in cardiomyocytes can promote α-MHC K1897 lactylation and α-MHC-Titin interaction, thereby alleviating heart failure. In conclusion, α-MHC lactylation is dynamically regulated and an important determinant of overall cardiac structure and function. Excessive lactate efflux and consumption by cardiomyocytes may decrease the intracellular lactate level, which is the main cause of reduced α-MHC K1897 lactylation during myocardial injury. Our study reveals that cardiac metabolism directly modulates the sarcomeric structure and function through lactate-dependent modification of α-MHC.

Adipocyte-Derived PXR Signaling Is Dispensable for Diet-Induced Obesity and Metabolic Disorders in Mice

Pregnane X receptor (PXR) is a xenobiotic receptor that can be activated by numerous chemicals including endogenous hormones, dietary steroids, pharmaceutical agents, and environmental chemicals. PXR has been established to function as a xenobiotic sensor to coordinately regulate xenobiotic metabolism by regulating the expression of many enzymes and transporters required for xenobiotic metabolism. Recent studies have implicated a potentially important role for PXR in obesity and metabolic disease beyond xenobiotic metabolism, but how PXR action in different tissues or cell types contributes to obesity and metabolic disorders remains elusive. To investigate the role of adipocyte PXR in obesity, we generated a novel adipocyte-specific PXR deficient mouse model (PXRΔAd). Notably, we found that loss of adipocyte PXR did not affect food intake, energy expenditure, and obesity in high-fat diet-fed male mice. PXRΔAd mice also had similar obesity-associated metabolic disorders including insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis as control littermates. PXR deficiency in adipocytes did not affect expression of key adipose genes in PXRΔAd mice. Our findings suggest that adipocyte PXR signaling may be dispensable in diet-induced obesity and metabolic disorders in mice. Further studies are needed to understand the role of PXR signaling in obesity and metabolic disorders in the future. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The authors demonstrate that deficiency of adipocyte pregnane X receptor (PXR) does not affect diet-induced obesity or metabolic disorders in mice and infers that adipocyte PXR signaling may not play a key role in diet-induced obesity. More studies are needed to understand the tissue-specific role of PXR in obesity.

A Comprehensive Privacy-Preserving Federated Learning Scheme with Secure Authentication and Aggregation for Internet of Medical Things

Data mining, integration, and utilization are the inevitable trend of the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) in the context of big data. With the increasing demand for data privacy, federated learning has emerged as a new paradigm, which enables distributed joint training of medical data sources without leaving the private domain. However, federated learning is suffering from security threats as the shared local model will reveal original datasets. Privacy leakage is even more fatal in healthcare because medical data contains critically sensitive information. In addition, open wireless channels are susceptible to malicious attacks. To further safeguard the privacy of IoMT, we propose a comprehensive privacy-preserving federated learning scheme with a tactful dropout handling mechanism. The proposed scheme leverages blind masking and certificateless proxy re-encryption (CL-PRE) for secure aggregation, ensuring the confidentiality of the local model and rendering the global model invisible to any parties other than clients. It also provides authentication of uploaded models while protecting identity privacy. Compared with other relevant schemes, our solution has better performance on functional features and efficiency, and is more applicable to IoMT systems with many devices.

Effect of K‑line on posterior cervical surgery versus anterior cervical surgery in patients with multi-level ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament

PURPOSE

To evaluate the influence of K-line on the outcome of open-door laminoplasty versus anterior cervical corpectomy decompression and fusion (ACCF) for patients with more than two levels of ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL).

METHODS

60 patients undergoing open-door laminoplasty and 62 patients undergoing ACCF from January 2013 to January 2020 with more than 2 years of follow-up were included. Eighty-four cases with the ossification mass not beyond the K-line were grouped as K-line (+), while thirty-eight cases were grouped as K-line (-). The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, hospital stay, preoperative, postoperative, and last follow-up JOA scores, and postoperative complications were investigated.

RESULTS

The improvement rate of JOA scores after posterior approaches in cases of group K-line (+) and K-line (-) was 72.4% and 53.1%, respectively, which showed a significant difference (P < 0.01). In group K-line (+), the improvement of JOA scores for open-door laminoplasty was 73.4% and 71.8% for ACCF, which showed no significant difference (P > 0.05). In group K-line (-), the improvement of JOA scores for ACCF was 52.1% and 42.9% for open-door laminoplasty, which showed a significant difference (P < 0.05). The incidence of C5 palsy was significantly lower in cases with ACCF than in cases with open-door laminoplasty (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

For patients with more than two levels of OPLL, preoperative K-line (+) predicates a better outcome than K-line (-). For cases with K-line (-), ACCF provides better neurologic function recovery. For patients with K-line (+), open-door laminoplasty provides the same neurologic function recovery of ACCF.

Expression and regulatory network of E3 ubiquitin ligase NEDD4 family in cancers

NEDD4 family represent an important group of E3 ligases, which regulate various cellular pathways of cell proliferation, cell junction and inflammation. Emerging evidence suggested that NEDD4 family members participate in the initiation and development of tumor. In this study, we systematically investigated the molecular alterations as well as the clinical relevance regarding NEDD4 family genes in 33 cancer types. Finally, we found that NEDD4 members showed increased expression in pancreas cancer and decreased expression in thyroid cancer. NEDD4 E3 ligase family genes had an average mutation frequency in the range of 0-32.1%, of which HECW1 and HECW2 demonstrated relatively high mutation rate. Breast cancer harbors large amount of NEDD4 copy number amplification. NEDD4 family members interacted proteins were enriched in various pathways including p53, Akt, apoptosis and autophagy, which were confirmed by further western blot and flow cytometric analysis in A549 and H1299 lung cancer cells. In addition, expression of NEDD4 family genes were associated with survival of cancer patients. Our findings provide novel insight into the effect of NEDD4 E3 ligase genes on cancer progression and treatment in the future.

A Bioinspired Manganese-Organic Framework Ameliorates Ischemic Stroke through its Intrinsic Nanozyme Activity and Upregulating Endogenous Antioxidant Enzymes

Following stroke, oxidative stress induced by reactive oxygen species (ROS) aggravates neuronal damage and enlarges ischemic penumbra, which is devastating to stroke patients. Nanozyme-based antioxidants are emerging to treat stroke through scavenging excessive ROS. However, most of nanozymes cannot efficiently scavenge ROS in neuronal cytosol and mitochondria, due to low-uptake abilities of neurons and barriers of organelle membranes, significantly limiting nanozymes' neuroprotective effects. To overcome this limitation, a manganese-organic framework modified with polydopamine (pDA-MNOF), capable of not only mimicking catalytic activities of natural SOD2's catalytic domain but also upregulating two endogenous antioxidant enzymes in neurons is fabricated. With such a dual anti-ROS effect, this nanozyme robustly decreases cellular ROS and effectively protects them from ROS-induced injury. STAT-3 signaling is found to play a vital role in pDA-MNOF activating the two antioxidant enzymes, HO1 and SOD2. In vivo pDA-MNOF treatment significantly improves the survival of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo) mice by reducing infarct volume and more importantly, promotes animal behavioral recovery. Further, pDA-MNOF activates vascular endothelial growth factor expression, a downstream target of STAT3 signaling, thus enhancing angiogenesis. Taken together, the biochemical, cell-biological, and animal-level behavioral data demonstrate the potentiality of pDA-MNOF as a dual ROS-scavenging agent for stroke treatment.

De-ubiquitination of SAMHD1 by USP7 promotes DNA damage repair to overcome oncogenic stress and affect chemotherapy sensitivity

Oncogenic stress induces DNA damage repair (DDR) that permits escape from mitotic catastrophe and allows early precursor lesions during the evolution of cancer. SAMHD1, a dNTPase protecting cells from viral infections, has been recently found to participate in DNA damage repair process. However, its role in tumorigenesis remains largely unknown. Here, we show that SAMHD1 is up-regulated in early-stage human carcinoma tissues and cell lines under oxidative stress or genotoxic insults. We further demonstrate that de-ubiquitinating enzyme USP7 interacts with SAMHD1 and de-ubiquitinates it at lysine 421, thus stabilizing SAMHD1 protein expression for further interaction with CtIP for DDR, which promotes tumor cell survival under genotoxic stress. Furthermore, SAMHD1 levels positively correlates with USP7 in various human carcinomas, and is associated with an unfavorable survival outcome in patients who underwent chemotherapy. Moreover, USP7 inhibitor sensitizes tumor cells to chemotherapeutic agents by decreasing SAMHD1 in vitro and in vivo. These findings suggest that de-ubiquitination of SAMHD1 by USP7 promotes DDR to overcome oncogenic stress and affect chemotherapy sensitivity.

PANDORA-Seq unveils the hidden small noncoding RNA landscape in atherosclerosis of LDL receptor-deficient mice

Small noncoding RNAs (sncRNAs) play diverse roles in numerous biological processes. While the widely used RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) method has advanced sncRNA discovery, RNA modifications can interfere with the complementary DNA library construction process, preventing the discovery of highly modified sncRNAs including transfer RNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) and ribosomal RNA-derived small RNAs (rsRNAs) that may have important functions in disease development. To address this technical obstacle, we recently developed a novel PANDORA-Seq (Panoramic RNA Display by Overcoming RNA Modification Aborted Sequencing) method to overcome RNA modification-elicited sequence interferences. To identify novel sncRNAs associated with atherosclerosis development, LDL receptor-deficient (LDLR-/-) mice were fed a low-cholesterol diet or high-cholesterol diet (HCD) for 9 weeks. Total RNAs isolated from the intima were subjected to PANDORA-Seq and traditional RNA-Seq. By overcoming RNA modification-elicited limitations, PANDORA-Seq unveiled an rsRNA/tsRNA-enriched sncRNA landscape in the atherosclerotic intima of LDLR-/- mice, which was strikingly different from that detected by traditional RNA-Seq. While microRNAs were the dominant sncRNAs detected by traditional RNA-Seq, PANDORA-Seq substantially increased the reads of rsRNAs and tsRNAs. PANDORA-Seq also detected 1,383 differentially expressed sncRNAs induced by HCD feeding, including 1,160 rsRNAs and 195 tsRNAs. One of HCD-induced intimal tsRNAs, tsRNA-Arg-CCG, may contribute to atherosclerosis development by regulating the proatherogenic gene expression in endothelial cells. Overall, PANDORA-Seq revealed a hidden rsRNA and tsRNA population associated with atherosclerosis development. These understudied tsRNAs and rsRNAs, which are much more abundant than microRNAs in the atherosclerotic intima of LDLR-/- mice, warrant further investigations.