Supercharged precision killers: Genetically engineered biomimetic drugs of screened metalloantibiotics against Acinetobacter baumanni

To eliminate multidrug-resistant bacteria of Acinetobacter baumannii, we screened 1100 Food and Drug Administration-approved small molecule drugs and accessed the broxyquinoline (Bq) efficacy in combination with various metal ions. Antibacterial tests demonstrated that the prepared Zn(Bq)2 complex showed ultralow minimum inhibitory concentration of ~0.21 micrograms per milliliter with no resistance after 30 passages. We then constructed the nano zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) as a drug carrier of Zn(Bq)2 and also incorporated the photosensitizer chlorin e6 (Ce6) to trace and boost the antibacterial effect. To further ensure the stable and targeted delivery, we genetically engineered outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) with the ability to selectively target A. baumannii. By coating the ZnBq/Ce6@ZIF-8 core with these OMV, the resulted drug (ZnBq/Ce6@ZIF-8@OMV) exhibited exceptional killing efficacy (>99.9999999%) of A. baumannii. In addition, in vitro and in vivo tests were also respectively carried out to inspect the remarkable efficacy of this previously unknown nanodrug in eradicating A. baumannii infections, including biofilms and meningitis.

Morphological control and performance engineering of Co-based materials for supercapacitors

As one of the most promising energy storage devices, supercapacitors exhibit a higher power density than batteries. However, its low energy density usually requires high-performance electrode materials. Although the RuO2 material shows desirable properties, its high cost and toxicity significantly limit its application in supercapacitors. Recent developments demonstrated that Co-based materials have emerged as a promising alternative to RuO2 for supercapacitors due to their low cost, favorable redox reversibility and environmental friendliness. In this paper, the morphological control and performance engineering of Co-based materials are systematically reviewed. Firstly, the principle of supercapacitors is briefly introduced, and the characteristics and advantages of pseudocapacitors are emphasized. The special forms of cobalt-based materials are introduced, including 1D, 2D and 3D nanomaterials. After that, the ways to enhance the properties of cobalt-based materials are discussed, including adding conductive materials, constructing heterostructures and doping heteroatoms. Particularly, the influence of morphological control and modification methods on the electrochemical performances of materials is highlighted. Finally, the application prospect and development direction of Co-based materials are proposed.

Ginsenoside Rh2-Based Multifunctional Liposomes for Advanced Breast Cancer Therapy

Background

Most solid tumors are not diagnosed and treated until the advanced stage, in which tumors have shaped mature self-protective power, leading to off-target drugs and nanomedicines. In the present studies, we established a more realistic large tumor model to test the antitumor activity of a multifunctional ginsenoside Rh2-based liposome system (Rh2-lipo) on advanced breast cancer.

Methods

Both cholesterol and PEG were substituted by Rh2 to prepare the Rh2-lipo using ethanol-water system and characterized. The effects of Rh2-lipo on cell uptake, penetration of the tumor spheroid, cytotoxicity assay was investigated with 4T1 breast cancer cells and L929 fibroblast cells. The 4T1 orthotopic-bearing large tumor model was established to study the targeting effect of Rh2-lipo and inhibitory effect of paclitaxel loaded Rh2-lipo (PTX-Rh2-lipo) on advanced breast tumors.

Results

Rh2-lipo exhibit many advantages that address the limitations of current liposome formulations against large tumors, such as enhanced uptake in TAFs and tumor cells, high targeting and penetration capacity, cytotoxicity against TAFs, normalization of the vessel network, and depletion of stromal collagen. In in vivo study, PTX-Rh2-lipo effectively inhibiting the growth of advanced breast tumors and outperformed most reported PTX formulations, including Lipusu® and Abraxane®.

Conclusion

Rh2-lipo have improved drug delivery efficiency and antitumor efficacy in advanced breast cancer, which offers a novel promising platform for advanced tumor therapy.

Effect of Sinus Membrane Thickness on Membrane Perforation and Bone Augmentation in Transcrestal Sinus Floor Elevation: A Retrospective Study

Sinus membrane thickening is a common maxillary sinus disease. However, a consensus has not been reached on the effect of sinus membrane thickness on the transcrestal sinus floor elevation. This retrospective study evaluated the perforation and bone formation at transcrestal sinus floor elevation sites with different sinus membrane thicknesses. A total of 117 sites in 87 patients treated with transcrestal sinus floor elevation were included in this study. The surgical sites were divided into four groups according to the baseline sinus membrane thickness: Group A (0 to 1 mm), Group B (1 to 2 mm), Group C (2 to 4 mm), and Group D (> 4 mm). CBCT scans were taken before surgery, immediately after surgery, and 6 months after surgery. The mean baseline sinus membrane thickness was 2.16 ± 2.54 mm, and the mean residual alveolar bone height was 6.58 ± 1.85 mm. The mean endosinus new bone height was 3.76 ± 1.95 mm. The perforation rate and endosinus new bone height showed no significant difference among the groups (P > .05). The incidence rates of membrane thickening and perforation were significantly higher in smoking patients (P < .05). Membrane thickening without ostium obstruction may have little impact on transcrestal sinus floor elevation surgery in regards to perforation rate and bone formation. In addition, smoking may be a risk factor for membrane thickening, and the sinus membrane is more likely to perforate during transcrestal surgery when the patient has a history of smoking.

Influenza D virus utilizes both 9-O-acetylated N-acetylneuraminic and 9-O-acetylated N-glycolylneuraminic acids as functional entry receptors

Influenza D virus (IDV) utilizes bovines as a primary reservoir with periodical spillover to other hosts. We have previously demonstrated that IDV binds both 9-O-acetylated N-acetylneuraminic acid (Neu5,9Ac2) and 9-O-acetylated N-glycolylneuraminic acid (Neu5Gc9Ac). Bovines produce both Neu5,9Ac2 and Neu5Gc9Ac, while humans are genetically unable to synthesize Neu5Gc9Ac. 9-O-Acetylation of sialic acids is catalyzed by CASD1 via a covalent acetyl-enzyme intermediate. To characterize the role of Neu5,9Ac2 and Neu5Gc9Ac in IDV infection and determine which form of 9-O-acetylated sialic acids drives IDV entry, we took advantage of a CASD1 knockout (KO) MDCK cell line and carried out feeding experiments using synthetic 9-O-acetyl sialic acids in combination with the single-round and multi-round IDV infection assays. The data from our studies show that (i) CASD1 KO cells are resistant to IDV infection and lack of IDV binding to the cell surface is responsible for the failure of IDV replication; (ii) feeding CASD1 KO cells with Neu5,9Ac2 or Neu5Gc9Ac resulted in a dose-dependent rescue of IDV infectivity; and (iii) diverse IDVs replicated robustly in CASD1 KO cells fed with either Neu5,9Ac2 or Neu5Gc9Ac at a level similar to that in wild-type cells with a functional CASD1. These data demonstrate that IDV can utilize Neu5,9Ac2- or non-human Neu5Gc9Ac-containing glycan receptor for infection. Our findings provide evidence that IDV has acquired the ability to infect and transmit among agricultural animals that are enriched in Neu5Gc9Ac, in addition to posing a zoonotic risk to humans expressing only Neu5,9Ac2.IMPORTANCEInfluenza D virus (IDV) has emerged as a multiple-species-infecting pathogen with bovines as a primary reservoir. Little is known about the functional receptor that drives IDV entry and promotes its cross-species spillover potential among different hosts. Here, we demonstrated that IDV binds exclusively to 9-O-acetylated N-acetylneuraminic acid (Neu5,9Ac2) and non-human 9-O-acetylated N-glycolylneuraminic acid (Neu5Gc9Ac) and utilizes both for entry and infection. This ability in effective engagement of both 9-O-acetylated sialic acids as functional receptors for infection provides an evolutionary advantage to IDV for expanding its host range. This finding also indicates that IDV has the potential to emerge in humans because Neu5,9Ac2 is ubiquitously expressed in human tissues, including lung. Thus, results of our study highlight a need for continued surveillance of IDV in humans, as well as for further investigation of its biology and cross-species transmission mechanism.

Upregulation of PGC-1α expression by pioglitazone mediates prevention of sepsis-induced acute lung injury

The imbalance between pro-inflammatory M1 and anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of sepsis-induced acute lung injury (ALI). Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α) may modulate macrophage polarization toward the M2 phenotype by altering mitochondrial activity. This study aimed to investigate the role of the PGC-1α agonist pioglitazone (PGZ) in modulating sepsis-induced ALI. A mouse model of sepsis-induced ALI was established using cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). An in vitro model was created by stimulating MH-S cells with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). qRT-PCR was used to measure mRNA levels of M1 markers iNOS and MHC-II and M2 markers Arg1 and CD206 to evaluate macrophage polarization. Western blotting detected expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) PGC-1α, and mitochondrial biogenesis proteins NRF1, NRF2, and mtTFA. To assess mitochondrial content and function, reactive oxygen species levels were detected by dihydroethidium staining, and mitochondrial DNA copy number was measured by qRT-PCR. In the CLP-induced ALI mouse model, lung tissues exhibited reduced PGC-1α expression. PGZ treatment rescued PGC-1α expression and alleviated lung injury, as evidenced by decreased lung wet-to-dry weight ratio, pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion (tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, interleukin-6), and enhanced M2 macrophage polarization. Mechanistic investigations revealed that PGZ activated the PPARγ/PGC-1α/mitochondrial protection pathway to prevent sepsis-induced ALI by inhibiting M1 macrophage polarization. These results may provide new insights and evidence for developing PGZ as a potential ALI therapy.

Combined effects of mulch film-derived microplastics and pesticides on soil microbial communities and element cycling

Pesticides and microplastics (MPs) derived from mulch film in agricultural soil can independently impact soil ecology, yet the consequences of their combined exposure remain unclear. Therefore, the effects of simultaneous exposure to commonly used pesticides (imidacloprid and flumioxazin) and aged mulch film-derived MPs on soil microorganisms and element cycles in cotton fields were investigated. The combined exposure influenced soil microorganisms, alongside processes related to carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus cycles, exhibiting effects that were either neutralized or enhanced compared to individual exposures. The impact of pesticides in combined exposure was notably more significant and played a dominant role than that of MPs. Specifically, combined exposure intensified changes in soil bacterial community and symbiotic networks. The combined exposure neutralized NH4+, NO3-, DOC, and A-P contents, shifting from 0.33 % and 40.23 % increase in MPs and pesticides individually to a 40.24 % increase. Moreover, combined exposure resulted in the neutralization or amplification of the nitrogen-fixing gene nifH, nitrifying genes (amoA and amoB), and denitrifying genes (nirS and nirK), the carbon cycle gene cbbLG and the phosphorus cycle gene phoD from 0.48 and 2.57-fold increase to a 2.99-fold increase. The combined exposure also led to the neutralization or enhancement of carbon and nitrogen cycle functional microorganisms, shifting from a 1.53-fold inhibition and 10.52-fold increase to a 6.39-fold increase. These findings provide additional insights into the potential risks associated with combined pesticide exposure and MPs, particularly concerning soil microbial communities and elemental cycling processes.

Seasonal nitrate variations, risks, and sources in groundwater under different land use types in a thousand-year-cultivated region, northwestern China

The global public health concern of nitrate (NO3-) contamination in groundwater is particularly pronounced in irrigated agricultural regions. This paper aims to analyze the spatial distribution of groundwater NO3-, assess potential health risks for local residents, and quantitatively identify nitrate sources during different seasons and land use types in the Jinghuiqu Irrigation District, a region in northwestern China with a longstanding agricultural history. The investigation utilizes hydrochemical parameters, dual isotopic data, and the Bayesian stable isotope mixing model (MixSIAR). The findings underscore significant seasonal variations in the average concentrations of NO3-, with values of 87.72 mg/L and 101.87 mg/L during the wet and dry seasons, respectively. Furthermore, distinct fluctuations in nitrate concentration were observed across different land use types, whereby vegetable lands manifested the maximum concentration. Prolonged exposure to elevated nitrate concentrations may pose potential health risks to residents, especially in the dry season when the non-carcinogenic groundwater nitrate risk surges past its wet season counterpart. The MixSIAR analysis revealed that chemical fertilizers accounted for the majority of nitrate pollution in vegetable lands, both during the dry season (49.6%) and wet season (41.2%). In contrast, manure and sewage contributed significantly to NO3-concentrations in residential land during the wet (74.9%) and dry seasons (67.6%). For croplands, soil nitrogen emerged as a dominant source during the wet season (42.2%), while chemical fertilizers prevailed in the dry season (38.7%). In addition to source variations, the nitrate concentration of groundwater is further affected by hydrogeological conditions, with more permeable aquifers tending to display higher nitrate concentrations. Thus, targeted measures were proposed to modify or impede the nitrogen migration pathway, taking into consideration hydrogeological conditions and incorporating domestic sewage, organic fertilizer, and agricultural management practices.

New Structures in the J/ψJ/ψ Mass Spectrum in Proton-Proton Collisions at sqrt[s]=13 TeV

A search is reported for near-threshold structures in the J/ψJ/ψ invariant mass spectrum produced in proton-proton collisions at sqrt[s]=13  TeV from data collected by the CMS experiment, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 135  fb^{-1}. Three structures are found, and a model with quantum interference among these structures provides a good description of the data. A new structure is observed with a local significance above 5 standard deviations at a mass of 6638_{-38}^{+43}(stat)_{-31}^{+16}(syst)  MeV. Another structure with even higher significance is found at a mass of 6847_{-28}^{+44}(stat)_{-20}^{+48}(syst)  MeV, which is consistent with the X(6900) resonance reported by the LHCb experiment and confirmed by the ATLAS experiment. Evidence for another new structure, with a local significance of 4.7 standard deviations, is found at a mass of 7134_{-25}^{+48}(stat)_{-15}^{+41}(syst)  MeV. Results are also reported for a model without interference, which does not fit the data as well and shows mass shifts up to 150 MeV relative to the model with interference.

Collision-free automatic berthing of maritime autonomous surface ships via safety-certified active disturbance rejection control

This paper addresses the automatic berthing of a maritime autonomous surface ship operating in a confined water environment subject to static obstacles, dynamic obstacles, thruster constraints, and space constraints due to shorelines. A safety-certified active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) method is proposed for achieving the automatic berthing task of an MASS in the presence of model uncertainties and ocean disturbances. An extended state observer (ESO) based on a second-order robust exact differentiator (RED) is employed to estimate an extended state vector consisting of internal model uncertainties and external ocean disturbances. With the aid of the RED-based ESO, a nominal ADRC law is designed to achieve the position and heading stabilization. To avoid collisions with static obstacles, dynamic obstacles, and shorelines, input-to-state safe high-order control barrier functions are used to guarantee safety. Optimized control signals are obtained based on a constrained quadratic programming (QP) problem within safety constraints. In order to translate the control signals into the individual thruster command, a constrained QP problem is further used to search for optimized commands in real time. It is proven that the closed-loop automatic berthing system is input-to-state stable. By using the proposed method, the MASS is able to reach the desired position and heading with collision avoidance. Simulation results verify the effectiveness of the proposed safety-certified ADRC method for automatic berthing.

Estragole Ameliorates CFA Induced Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms in Wistar Rats by Inhibiting JAK-2/STAT-3 Pathway

The present study was conducted to scrutinize the pharmacological effect of Estragole (ESG) against CFA-induced arthritis in rats. The rats underwent induction of arthritis using the administration of CFA and after that, the rats were randomly divided into five different groups, where three groups correspond to diverse dosages of ESG, and the other two were control and CFA-arthritic control. Results of the study suggested that ESG in a dose-dependent manner, improves body weight and arthritis score of rats as evidenced by reduction of hind-paw volume. ESG also improved the antioxidant status of rats by reducing MDA levels and enhancing the concentration of endogenous antioxidants SOD and GPx. The level of pro-inflammatory cytokines was also found to be reduced in the case of ESG treated group as compared to CFA-group. In a western blot analysis, ESH showed downregulation of p-JAK-2/STAT-3. The study provided concrete evidence for the protective effect of ESG against rheumatoid arthritis in rats.

BPIFB1, Serving as a Downstream Effector of EBV-miR-BART4, Blocks Immune Escape of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma via Inhibiting PD-L1 Expression

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is one of the most common tumors of head and neck in the Southeast Asia. PD-L1-dependent immune escape plays a critical role involved in NPC development. BPIFB1 has previously reported to take tumor-suppressive actions on NPC cell proliferation and migration. Nonetheless, the function of BPIFB1 in immune escape remains largely elusive. Expression pattern on mRNA and protein levels of target genes in NPC patients' samples and cell lines were examined by qRT-PCR, western blot, and immunohistochemistry staining, respectively. The assessment of CD8+ T-cell apoptosis and expression was determined by flow cytometry. Molecular interactions were verified using chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and luciferase reporter assay. BPIFB1 was downregulated in NPC tumor tissues, exhibiting a negative correlation of PD-L1. Overexpression of BPIFB1 significantly inhibited the expression of PD-L1, suppressing the apoptosis and enhancing the expression of CD8+ T cells. Mechanistically, BPIFB1 was found to repress the expression of STAT1, which was identified to be an upstream activator of PD-L1. Furthermore, the EBV-encoded miR-BART4 overexpressed in NPC cells could directly target and inhibit BPIFB1. This study provided a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanism for the upstream and downstream pathway of BPIFB1 related with immune escape, indicating a novel approach for the treatment of NPC.

Visual Sensor with Host-Guest Specific Recognition and Light-Electrical Co-Controlled Switch

Perception of UV radiation has important applications in medical health, industrial production, electronic communication, etc. In numerous application scenarios, there is an increasing demand for the intuitive and low-cost detection of UV radiation through colorimetric visual behavior, as well as the efficient and multi-functional utilization of UV radiation. However, photodetectors based on photoconductive modes or photosensitive colorimetric materials are not conducive to portable or multi-scene applications owing to their complex and expensive photosensitive components, potential photobleaching, and single-stimulus response behavior. Here, a multifunctional visual sensor based on the "host-guest photo-controlled permutation" strategy and the "lock and key" model is developed. The host-guest specific molecular recognition and electrochromic sensing platform is integrated at the micro-molecular scale, enabling multi-functional and multi-scene applications in the convenient and fast perception of UV radiation, military camouflage, and information erasure at the macro level of human-computer interaction through light-electrical co-controlled visual switching characteristics. This light-electrical co-controlled visual sensor based on an optoelectronic multi-mode sensing system is expected to provide new ideas and paradigms for healthcare, microelectronics manufacturing, and wearable electronic devices owing to its advantages of signal visualization, low energy consumption, low cost, and versatility.

Enhanced uranium extraction from seawater: from the viewpoint of kinetics and thermodynamics

Uranium extraction from seawater (UES) is recognized as one of the seven pivotal chemical separations with the potential to revolutionize global paradigms. The forthcoming decade is anticipated to witness a surge in UES, driven by escalating energy demands. The oceanic reservoirs, possessing uranium quantities approximately 1000-fold higher than terrestrial mines, present a more sustainable and environmentally benign alternative. Empirical evidence from historical research indicates that adsorption emerges as the most efficacious process for uranium recovery from seawater, considering operational feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and selectivity. Over the years, scientific exploration has led to the development of a plethora of adsorbents with superior adsorption capacity. It would be efficient to design materials with a deep understanding of the adsorption from the perspective of kinetics and thermodynamics. Here, we summarize recent advancements in UES technology and the contemporary challenges encountered in this domain. Furthermore, we present our perspectives on the future trajectory of UES and finally offer our insights into this subject.

Development and validation of a major adverse limb events prediction model for peripheral arterial disease with frailty

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the risk factors for major limb adverse events (MALE) in peripheral arterial disease (PAD) combined with frailty and to develop and validate a risk prediction model of MALE.

METHODS

This prospective study was performed in the vascular surgery department of patients in six hospitals in southwest China. Prospective collection of patients with PAD combined with frailty from February 1 to December 20, 2021, with MALE as the primary outcome, and followed for 1 year. The cohort was divided into a development cohort and a validation cohort. In the development cohort, a multivariate risk prediction model was developed to predict MALE using random forests for variable selection and multivariable Cox regression analysis. The model is represented by a visualized nomogram and a web-based calculator. The model performance was tested with the validation cohort and assessed using the C-statistic and calibration plots.

RESULTS

A total of 1179 patients were prospectively enrolled from February 1 to December 20, 2021. Among 816 patients with PAD who were included in the analysis, the median follow-up period for this study was 9 ± 4.07 months, the mean age was 74.64 ± 9.43 years, and 249 (30.5%) were women. Within 1 year, 222 patients (27.2%) developed MALE. Target lesion revascularizations were performed in 99 patients (12.1%), and amputations were performed in 131 patients (16.1%). The mortality rate within the whole cohort was 108 patients (13.2%). After controlling for competing risk events (death), the cumulative risk of developing MALE was not statistically different. Prealbumin (hazard ratio [HR], 0.6; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.41-0.89; P = .010), percutaneous coronary intervention (HR, 2.31; 95% CI, 1.26-4.21; P = .006), Rutherford classification (HR, 1.77; 95% CI, 1.36-2.31; P < .001), white blood cell (HR, 1.85; 95% CI, 1.20-2.87; P = .005), high altitude area (HR, 3.1; 95% CI, 1.43-6.75; P = .004), endovascular treatment (HR, 10.2; 95% CI, 1.44-72.5; P = .020), and length of stay (HR, 1.01; 95% CI, 1.00-1.03; P = .012) were risk factors for MALE. The MALE prediction model had a C-statistic of 0.76 (95% CI, 0.70-0.79). The C-statistic was 0.68 for internal validation and 0.66 for external validation for the MALE prediction model. The MALE prediction model for PAD presented an interactive nomogram and a web-based network calculator.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, the MALE prediction model has a discriminative ability to predict MALE among patients with PAD in frailty. The MALE model can optimize clinical decision-making for patients in PAD with frailty.

Electronic structure and magnetothermal properties of two-dimensional ScCl

Two-dimensional ferromagnetic materials with intrinsic half-metallic properties have strong application advantages in nanoscale spintronics. Herein, density functional theory calculations show that monolayer ScCl is a ferromagnetic metallic material when undoped (n = 0), and the transition from metal to half-metal occurs with the continuous doping of holes. On the contrary, as the concentration of doped electrons increases, the system will exhibit metallic characteristics, which is particularly evident from a variation in spin polarizability. Furthermore, we have discussed how doped carriers affect the shape of the Fermi surface and the Fermi velocity of electrons. Most importantly, Monte Carlo simulations show that the ScCl monolayer is particularly regulated by carrier concentration (n) and magnetic field (h). Additionally, trends in energy and magnetic exchange coupling in different magnetic configurations (AFM phase and FM phase) with different doping concentrations are presented. When n < -0.16, the material is not only a half-metallic material that easily flips the magnetic axis, but also proves to be a candidate ferromagnetic material that works stably at room temperature in terms of dynamic stability. In addition, the origin of magnetocrystalline anisotropy is analyzed, and the contribution of different orbitals to spin-orbit coupling is presented. Moreover, we note that when magnetic field is small (h < 1 T), the change in size has a significant effect on ferromagnetic phase transition. However, when the system size is large (size >15 nm), TC is less sensitive to magnetic field. In addition, hole doping and size effect will greatly affect the hC of the system, but when the hole doping exceeds the critical value (n = -0.16), its influence on the hysteresis loop is no longer obvious. These interesting magnetic phenomena and easily adjustable physical properties show us that monolayer ScCl will be a promising functional material.

Effects of Supplementing Selenium-Enriched Cardamine violifolia to Laying Hens on Egg Quality and Yolk Antioxidant Capacity during Storage at 4 °C and 25 °C

Oxidative stress occurs in the process of egg storage. Antioxidants as feed additives can enhance egg quality and extend the shelf life of eggs. Selenium-enriched Cardamine violifolia (SEC) has strongly antioxidant properties. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of dietary supplementation with SEC on egg quality and the yolk antioxidant capacity of eggs stored at 4 °C and 25 °C. Four hundred fifty 65-week-old, Roman hens that were similar in laying rate (90.79 ± 1.69%) and body weight (2.19 ± 0.23 kg) were divided into 5 groups. The birds were fed diets supplemented with 0 mg/kg selenium (Se) (CON), 0.3 mg/kg Se from sodium selenite (SS), 0.3 mg/kg Se from Se-enriched yeast (SEY), 0.3 mg/kg Se for selenium-enriched Cardamine violifolia (SEC) or 0.3 mg/kg Se from Se-enriched Cardamine violifolia and 0.3 mg/kg Se from Se-enriched yeast (SEC + SEY) for 8 weeks. The eggs were collected on the 8th week and were analyzed for egg quality and oxidative stability of yolk during storage at 4 °C or 25 °C for 0, 2, 4, or 6 weeks. Dietary SEC and SEC + SEY supplementation increased the Haugh unit (HU) and albumen foam stability in eggs stored at 4 °C and 25 °C (p < 0.05). SS and SEC supplementation increased the yolk index in eggs stored at 25 °C (p < 0.05). SEC or SEC + SEY slowed down an increase in albumen pH and gel firmness in eggs stored at 4 °C and 25 °C (p < 0.05). Moreover, SEC or SEC + SEY alleviated the increase in malonaldehyde (MDA), and the decrease in total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) level and total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) activity in yolks stored at 4 °C and 25 °C (p < 0.05). These results indicate that SEC mitigated egg quality loss and improved the antioxidant capacity of yolks during storage. SEC supplementation would be advantageous to extend the shelf life of eggs.

The effects of robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery with Trendelenburg position on short-term postoperative respiratory diaphragmatic function

OBJECTIVE

To study how Pneumoperitoneum under Trendelenburg position for robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery impact the perioperative respiratory parameters, diagrammatic function, etc. METHODS: Patients undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery in the Trendelenburg position and patients undergoing general surgery in the supine position were selected. The subjects were divided into two groups according to the type of surgery: robot-assisted surgery group and general surgery group. ① Respiratory parameters such as lung compliance, oxygenation index, and airway pressure were recorded at 5 min after intubation, 1 and 2 h after pneumoperitoneum. ② Diaphragm excursion (DE) and diaphragm thickening fraction (DTF) were recorded before entering the operating room (T1), immediately after extubation (T2), 10 min after extubation (T3), and upon leaving the postanesthesia care unit (T4). ③ Peripheral venous blood (5 ml) was collected before surgery and 30 min after extubation and was analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to determine the serum concentration of Clara cell secretory protein 16 (CC16) and surfactant protein D (SP-D).

RESULT

① Compared with the general surgery group (N = 42), the robot-assisted surgery group (N = 46) presented a significantly higher airway pressure and lower lung compliance during the surgery(P < 0.001). ② In the robot-assisted surgery group, the DE significantly decreased after surgery (P < 0.001), which persisted until patients were discharged from the PACU (P < 0.001), whereas the DTF only showed a transient decrease postoperatively (P < 0.001) and returned to its preoperative levels at discharge (P = 0.115). In the general surgery group, the DE showed a transient decrease after surgery(P = 0.011) which recovered to the preoperative levels at discharge (P = 1). No significant difference in the DTF was observed among T1, T2, T3, and T4. ③ Both the general and robot-assisted surgery reduced the postoperative serum levels of SP-D (P < 0.05), while the robot-assisted surgery increased the postoperative levels of CC16 (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery significantly impairs postoperative diaphragm function, which does not recover to preoperative levels at PACU discharge. Elevated levels of serum CC16 after surgery suggest potential lung injury. The adverse effects may be attributed to the prolonged Trendelenburg position and pneumoperitoneum during laparoscopic surgery.

The accuracy of electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy compared to fluoroscopy in navigation of transbronchial lung cryobiopsy in patients with interstitial lung disease

BACKGROUND

Safely implementing transbronchial lung cryobiopsy (TBLC) in patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD) requires accurate navigation. Traditional fluoroscopy falls short in reducing the risk of post-procedure pneumothorax. The potential of electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy (ENB) as a more precise navigation method warrants further exploration.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study was conducted on ILD patients undergoing TBLC. Patients were assigned either fluoroscopy or ENB for cryoprobe positioning. Navigation accuracy was evaluated using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images as the standard. Safety and diagnostic yield were also observed.

RESULTS

Seventeen patients underwent TBLC, with 10 guided by fluoroscopy and seven by ENB. Fluoroscopy-guided cryoprobe navigation required more adjustments [9/15 (60%) v.s. 1/9 (11%), p = 0.018] for subsequent TBLC compared to ENB, as confirmed by CBCT images. Clinical characteristics, post-procedure complications, and biopsy specimen size showed no significant differences between the groups. Fourteen patients obtained a pathological diagnosis, and 15 received a multidisciplinary discussion (MDD) diagnosis. In the fluoroscopy group, three patients failed to obtain a pathological diagnosis, and two failed to obtain an MDD diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

ENB demonstrates significantly superior accuracy in TBLC navigation compared to traditional fluoroscopy when CBCT images are used as a reference. Further studies are necessary to determine the value of ENB in TBLC navigation for ILD patients.

Roles of CgEde1 and CgMca in Development and Virulence of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides

Anthracnose, induced by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, poses a substantial economic threat to rubber tree yields and various other tropical crops. Ede1, an endocytic scaffolding protein, plays a crucial role in endocytic site initiation and maturation in yeast. Metacaspases, sharing structural similarities with caspase family proteases, are essential for maintaining cell fitness. To enhance our understanding of the growth and virulence of C. gloeosporioides, we identified a homologue of Ede1 (CgEde1) in C. gloeosporioides. The knockout of CgEde1 led to impairments in vegetative growth, conidiation, and pathogenicity. Furthermore, we characterized a weakly interacted partner of CgEde1 and CgMca (orthologue of metacaspase). Notably, both the single mutant ΔCgMca and the double mutant ΔCgEde1/ΔCgMca exhibited severe defects in conidiation and germination. Polarity establishment and pathogenicity were also disrupted in these mutants. Moreover, a significantly insoluble protein accumulation was observed in ΔCgMca and ΔCgEde1/ΔCgMca strains. These findings elucidate the mechanism by which CgEde1 and CgMca regulates the growth and pathogenicity of C. gloeosporioides. Their regulation involves influencing conidiation, polarity establishment, and maintaining cell fitness, providing valuable insights into the intricate interplay between CgEde1 and CgMca in C. gloeosporioides.

Genome assembly of autotetraploid Actinidia arguta highlights adaptive evolution and enables dissection of important economic traits

Actinidia arguta, the most widely distributed Actinidia species and the second cultivated species in the genus, can be distinguished from the currently cultivated Actinidia chinensis on the basis of its small and smooth fruit, rapid softening, and excellent cold tolerance. Adaptive evolution of tetraploid Actinidia species and the genetic basis of their important agronomic traits are still unclear. Here, we generated a chromosome-scale genome assembly of an autotetraploid male A. arguta accession. The genome assembly was 2.77 Gb in length with a contig N50 of 9.97 Mb and was anchored onto 116 pseudo-chromosomes. Resequencing and clustering of 101 geographically representative accessions showed that they could be divided into two geographic groups, Southern and Northern, which first diverged 12.9 million years ago. A. arguta underwent two prominent expansions and one demographic bottleneck from the mid-Pleistocene climate transition to the late Pleistocene. Population genomics studies using paleoclimate data enabled us to discern the evolution of the species' adaptation to different historical environments. Three genes (AaCEL1, AaPME1, and AaDOF1) related to flesh softening were identified by multi-omics analysis, and their ability to accelerate flesh softening was verified through transient expression assays. A set of genes that characteristically regulate sexual dimorphism located on the sex chromosome (Chr3) or autosomal chromosomes showed biased expression during stamen or carpel development. This chromosome-level assembly of the autotetraploid A. arguta genome and the genes related to important agronomic traits will facilitate future functional genomics research and improvement of A. arguta.

Identification of Key Ubiquitination Sites Involved in the Proteasomal Degradation of AtACS7 in Arabidopsis

The gaseous hormone ethylene plays pivotal roles in plant growth and development. The rate-limiting enzyme of ethylene biosynthesis in seed plants is 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) synthase (ACS). ACS proteins are encoded by a multigene family and the expression of ACS genes is highly regulated, especially at a post-translational level. AtACS7, the only type III ACS in Arabidopsis, is degraded in a 26S proteasome-dependent pathway. Here, by using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis, two lysine residues of AtACS7, lys285 (K285) and lys366 (K366), were revealed to be ubiquitin-modified in young, light-grown Arabidopsis seedlings but not in etiolated seedlings. Deubiquitylation-mimicking mutations of these residues significantly increased the stability of the AtACS7K285RK366R mutant protein in cell-free degradation assays. All results suggest that K285 and K366 are the major ubiquitination sites on AtACS7, providing deeper insights into the post-translational regulation of AtACS7 in Arabidopsis.

Seneca Valley virus 3C protease cleaves OPTN (optineurin) to Impair selective autophagy and type I interferon signaling

Seneca Valley virus (SVV) causes vesicular disease in pigs, posing a threat to global pork production. OPTN (optineurin) is a macroautophagy/autophagy receptor that restricts microbial propagation by targeting specific viral or bacterial proteins for degradation. OPTN is degraded and cleaved at glutamine 513 following SVV infection via the activity of viral 3C protease (3C[pro]), resulting in N-terminal and a C-terminal OPTN fragments. Moreover, OPTN interacts with VP1 and targets VP1 for degradation to inhibit viral replication. The N-terminal cleaved OPTN sustained its interaction with VP1, whereas the degradation capacity targeting VP1 decreased. The inhibitory effect of N-terminal OPTN against SVV infection was significantly reduced, C-terminal OPTN failed to inhibit viral replication, and degradation of VP1 was blocked. The knockdown of OPTN resulted in reduced TBK1 activation and phosphorylation of IRF3, whereas overexpression of OPTN led to increased TBK1-IRF3 signaling. Additionally, the N-terminal OPTN diminished the activation of the type I IFN (interferon) pathway. These results show that SVV 3C[pro] targets OPTN because its cleavage impairs its function in selective autophagy and type I IFN production, revealing a novel model in which the virus develops diverse strategies for evading host autophagic machinery and type I IFN response for survival.Abbreviations: Co-IP: co-immunoprecipitation; GFP-green fluorescent protein; hpi: hours post-infection; HRP: horseradish peroxidase; IFN: interferon; IFNB/IFN-β: interferon beta; IRF3: interferon regulatory factor 3; LIR: LC3-interacting region; MAP1LC3/LC3: microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3; MOI: multiplicity of infection; OPTN: optineurin; PBS: phosphate-buffered saline; SVV: Seneca Valley virus; SQSTM1: sequestosome 1; TAX1BP1: Tax1 binding protein 1; TBK1: TANK binding kinase 1; TCID50: 50% tissue culture infectious doses; UBAN: ubiquitin binding in TNIP/ABIN (TNFAIP3/A20 and inhibitor of NFKB/NF-kB) and IKBKG/NEMO; UBD: ubiquitin-binding domain; ZnF: zinc finger.

Four high sensitivity troponin assays and mortality in US adults with cardiovascular disease: The national health and nutrition examination survey, 1999-2004

Objective

High sensitivity cardiac troponin (hs-cTn) may be useful to monitor residual risk in secondary prevention. Our objective was to study the correlations and comparative associations with mortality of four hs-cTn assays in US adults with known cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Methods

We studied 1,211 adults with a history of CVD who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999-2004. Using stored samples, we measured hs-cTnT (Roche) and three hs-cTnI assays (Abbott, Siemens, and Ortho). Outcomes were all-cause and CVD mortality, with follow-up through December 31, 2019.

Results

Mean age was 64 years, 48 % were female, and 80 % identified as non-Hispanic White. Pearson's correlation coefficients between hs-cTn assays ranged from 0.67 to 0.85. There were 848 deaths (365 from CVD). Among adults with a history of prior non-fatal CVD, each hs-cTn assay (log-transformed, per 1-SD) was independently associated with CVD death (HRs ranging from 1.55 to 2.16 per 1-SD, all p-values <0.05) and with all-cause death (HRs ranging from 1.31 to 1.62 per 1-SD, all p-values <0.05). Associations of hs-cTnT and all-cause and CVD death remained significant after adjusting for hs-cTnI (and vice versa). Associations between hs-cTnI and CVD death remained significant after mutually adjusting for other individual hs-cTnI assays: e.g., HR 2.21 (95 % CI 1.60, 3.05) for Ortho (hs-cTnI) after adjustment for Siemens (hs-cTnI) and HR 1.81 (95 % CI 1.35, 2.43) for Ortho (hs-cTnI) after adjustment for Abbott (hs-cTnI).

Conclusion

In US adults with a history of CVD, we found modest correlations between 4 hs-cTn assays. All assays were associated with all-cause and CVD mortality. The hs-cTnT assay was associated with mortality independent of the hs-cTnI assays. Hs-cTnI assays also appeared to be independent of each other. Thus, hs-cTn assays may provide distinct information for residual risk in secondary prevention adults.

Pedicle screw path planning for multi-level vertebral fixation

BACKGROUND

For the spinal internal fixation procedures, connecting rods to the pedicle screws are commonly used in all spinal segments from the cervical to sacral spine. So far, we have only seen single vertebral screw trajectory planning methods in literatures. Joint screw placements in multi-level vertebrae with the constraint of an ipsilateral connecting rod are not considered.

PURPOSE

In this paper, a screw trajectory planning method that considers screw-rod joint system with both multi-level vertebral constraints and individual vertebral safety tolerance are proposed.

METHODS

The proposed method addresses three challenging constraints jointly for multi-level vertebral fixation with pedicle screws. First, a cylindrical screw safe passage model is suggested instead of a unique mathematical optimal trajectory for a single pedicle. Second, the flexible screw cap accessibility model is also included. Third, the connecting rod is modeled to accommodate the spine contour and support the needed gripping capacity. The retrospective clinical data of relative normal shape spines from Beijing Jishuitan hospital were used in the testing. The screw trajectories from the existing methods based on single vertebra and the proposed method based on multi-level vertebrae optimization are calculated and compared.

RESULTS

The results showed that the calculated screw placements by the proposed method can achieve 88% success rate without breaking the pedicle cortex and 100% in clinical class A quality (allow less than 2 mm out of the pedicle cortex) compared to 86.1% and 99.1%, respectively, with the existing methods. Expert evaluation showed that the screw path trajectories and the connecting rod calculated by the new method satisfied the clinical implantation requirements.

CONCLUSIONS

The new screw planning approach that seeks an overall optimization for multi-level vertebral fixation is feasible and more advantageous for clinical use than the single vertebral approaches.

Oxalic acid secretion alleviates saline-alkali stress in alfalfa by improving photosynthetic characteristics and antioxidant activity

Saline-alkali stress significantly affects the growth and yield of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.). Organic acid secretion is crucial in alleviating abiotic stress-induced damage in plants. In this study, we evaluated the contents of the major organic acids secreted by the roots of tolerant (ZD) and sensitive (LYL) varieties of alfalfa under saline-alkali stress and investigated the effects of these organic acids on the growth, and physiological functions of alfalfa. Our results indicated that the oxalic acid (OA) content was the highest among the organic acids secreted from alfalfa roots under saline-alkali stress, and oxalic acid content was the most significantly different between the two varieties, ZD and LYL, compared to the contents of the other organic acids. Oxalic acid alleviated the inhibition of alfalfa growth caused by saline-alkali stress, improved photosynthetic characteristics, reduced the accumulation of reactive oxygen species, and increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes and content of osmoregulatory substances. Furthermore, oxalic acid resulted in significantly increased expression of genes involved in photosynthesis and antioxidant system in alfalfa under saline-alkali stress. This study revealed the effects of oxalic acid secreted by the root system on stress-related physiological processes, providing valuable insights into the functions of root secretions in plant saline-alkali resistance.

Strategies to Promote the Journey of Nanoparticles Against Biofilm-Associated Infections

Biofilm-associated infections are one of the most challenging healthcare threats for humans, accounting for 80% of bacterial infections, leading to persistent and chronic infections. The conventional antibiotics still face their dilemma of poor therapeutic effects due to the high tolerance and resistance led by bacterial biofilm barriers. Nanotechnology-based antimicrobials, nanoparticles (NPs), are paid attention extensively and considered as promising alternative. This review focuses on the whole journey of NPs against biofilm-associated infections, and to clarify it clearly, the journey is divided into four processes in sequence as 1) Targeting biofilms, 2) Penetrating biofilm barrier, 3) Attaching to bacterial cells, and 4) Translocating through bacterial cell envelope. Through outlining the compositions and properties of biofilms and bacteria cells, recent advances and present the strategies of each process are comprehensively discussed to combat biofilm-associated infections, as well as the combined strategies against these infections with drug resistance, aiming to guide the rational design and facilitate wide application of NPs in biofilm-associated infections.

Prevalence and risk factors of fatigue and its association with quality of life among patients with chronic pancreatitis: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Fatigue is a debilitating symptom found in various chronic diseases and is associated with more severe symptoms and worse quality of life (QoL). However, this symptom has not been adequately addressed in chronic pancreatitis (CP), and there have been no studies on fatigue in patients with CP.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Changhai Hospital in Shanghai, China. Data on the patients' sociodemographic, disease, and therapeutic characteristics were collected. Fatigue was assessed using the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory-20. QoL was assessed utilizing the European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer of QoL questionnaire (EORTC-QLQ-C30). Sleep quality, anxiety and depression, and pain was assessed using Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the Brief Pain Inventory, respectively.

RESULTS

The prevalence of fatigue among Chinese patients with CP was 35.51 % (87/245). Multivariate analysis showed that steatorrhea (OR = 2.638, 95 % CI: 1.117-6.234), history of smoking (OR = 4.627, 95 % CI: 1.202-17.802), history of endoscopic treatment (OR = 0.419, 95 % CI: 0.185-0.950), depression (OR = 5.924, 95 % CI: 2.462-14.255), and sleep disorder (OR = 6.184, 95 % CI: 2.543-15.034) were influencing factors for the presence of fatigue. The scores for global health and all functional dimensions in the EORTC-QLQ-C30 significantly decreased, whereas the scores for all symptom dimensions significantly increased in patients with fatigue.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicated that Fatigue is a common symptom and has a negative impact on the QoL of patients with CP. Steatorrhea, smoking history, endoscopic treatment, depression, and sleep disorders were associated with fatigue.

Dynamic lymphocyte-CRP ratio as a predictor: a single-centre retrospective study on disease severity and progression in adult COVID-19 patients

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy of dynamic changes in lymphocyte-C-reactive protein ratio (LCR) on differentiating disease severity and predicting disease progression in adult patients with Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

METHODS

This single-centre retrospective study enrolled adult COVID-19 patients categorized into moderate, severe and critical groups according to the Diagnosis and Treatment of New Coronavirus Pneumonia (ninth edition). Demographic and clinical data were collected. LCR and sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score were calculated. Lymphocyte count and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were monitored on up to four occasions. Disease severity was determined concurrently with each LCR measurement.

RESULTS

This study included 145 patients assigned to moderate (n = 105), severe (n = 33) and critical groups (n = 7). On admission, significant differences were observed among different disease severity groups including age, comorbidities, neutrophil proportion, lymphocyte count and proportion, D-Dimer, albumin, total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, indirect bilirubin, CRP and SOFA score. Dynamic changes in LCR showed significant differences across different disease severity groups at different times, which were significantly inversely correlated with disease severity of COVID-19, with correlation coefficients of -0.564, -0.548, -0.550 and -0.429 at four different times.

CONCLUSION

Dynamic changes in LCR can effectively differentiate disease severity and predict disease progression in adult COVID-19 patients.

Astragaloside Ⅳ negatively regulates Gpr97-TPL2 signaling to protect against hyperhomocysteine-exacerbated sepsis associated acute kidney injury

BACKGROUND

Hyperhomocysteine (HHcy) plays an important role in promoting inflammation and cell death of tubular epithelial cells. However, the role of HHcy and Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) in sepsis associated acute kidney injury (S-AKI) remain unclear.

PURPOSE

A significant aspect of this study aimed to elucidate the effect of AS-Ⅳ treatment on HHcy-exacerbated S-AKI and reveal its potential mechanism.

METHODS

Male C57BL/6 J mice fed with specific diet containing 2% methionine were established as in vivo models, and AS-Ⅳ was orally administrated continuously for 3 weeks, and then LPS (10 mg·kg-1 bodyweight) was given by a single intraperitoneal injection. The renal morphological changes were evaluated by HE and PAS staining. RNA-sequencing analysis was applied to select key signaling. The NRK-52E cells exposed to Hcy or combined with LPS were used as in vitro models. The mRNA and protein expression levels of Gpr97-TPL2 signaling were examined by qRT-PCR and western blotting assays.

RESULTS

In vivo, HHcy mice developed more severe renal injury and prevalent tubular inflammation after LPS injection. In vitro, the levels of NGAL, Gpr97 and TPL2 were significantly increased in NRK-52E cells induced by Hcy (1.6 mM) or in combination with LPS. Notably, the effects of Hcy on TPL2 signaling was abolished by transfecting TPL2 siRNA or treating TPL2 inhibitor, without alterations in Gpr97. However, the enhancement of Gpr97-TPL2 signaling induced by Hcy was counteracted by Gpr97 siRNA. Subsequently, our findings demonstrated that AS-Ⅳ treatment can improve renal function in HHcy-exacerbated S-AKI mice. Mechanistically, AS-Ⅳ alleviated renal tubular damage characterized by abnormal increases in KIM-1, NGAL, TPL2, Gpr97, Sema3A and TNF-α, and decreases in survivin in vivo and in vitro mainly through suppressing the activation of Gpr97-TPL2 signaling.

CONCLUSION

The present study suggested that HHcy-exacerbated S-AKI was mediated mechanically by activation of Gpr97-TPL2 signaling for the first time. Furthermore, our research also illustrated that AS-Ⅳ protected against HHcy-exacerbated S-AKI by attenuating renal tubular epithelial cells damage through negatively regulating Gpr97-TPL2 signaling, proposing a natural product treatment strategy for HHcy-exacerbated S-AKI.

Edwardsiella piscicida causes iron storage disorders by an autophagy pathway in fish monocytes/macrophages

Edwardsiella piscicida (E. piscicida) is a gram-negative pathogen that survives in intracellular environment. Currently, the interplay between E. piscicida and host cells has not been completely explored. In this study, we found that E. piscicida disturbed iron homeostasis in grass carp monocytes/macrophages to maintain its own growth. Further investigation revealed the bacteria induced an increase of intracellular iron, which was subjected to the degradation of ferritin. Moreover, the autophagy inhibitor impeded the degradation of ferritin and increase of intracellular iron in E. piscicida-infected monocytes/macrophages, implying possible involvement of autophagy response in the process of E. piscicida-broken iron homeostasis. Along this line, confocal microscopy observed that E. piscicida elicited the colocalization of ferritin with LC3-positive autophagosome in the monocytes/macrophages, indicating that E. piscicida mediated the degradation of ferritin possibly through the autophagic pathway. These results deepened our understanding of the interaction between E. piscicida and fish cells, hinting that the disruption of iron homeostasis was an important factor for pathogenicity of E. piscicida. They also indicated that autophagy was a possible mechanism governing intracellular iron metabolism in response to E. piscicida infection and might offer a new avenue for anti-E. piscicida strategies in the future.

Natural compound Sanggenon C inhibits porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus replication in piglets

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus is one of the main pathogens threatening the global pig industry, and there is still a lack of effective therapeutic drugs. Sanggenon C is a flavanone Diels-Alder adduct compound extracted from the root bark of the mulberry genus, which has blood pressure-reducing, anti-atherosclerotic, anti-oxidative, and anti-inflammatory effects. In our previous study, Sanggenon C was confirmed to significantly inhibit PRRSV replication in vitro. However, its antiviral potential to inhibit PRRSV infection in vivo has not been evaluated in piglets. Here, the antiviral effect of Sanggenon C was evaluated in PRRSV-challenged piglets based on assessments of rectal temperature, viral load, pathological changes of lung tissue and secretion of inflammatory cytokines. The results showed that Sanggenon C treatment relieved the clinical symptoms, reduced the viral loads in the lungs and bloods, alleviated the pathological damage of lung tissue, decreased the secretion of inflammatory cytokines, and shorten the excretion time of virus from the oral and nasal secretions and feces of piglets after PRRSV infection. The results indicated that Sanggenon C is a promising anti-PRRSV drug, which provides a new strategy for the prevention and control of PRRS in clinical practice.

The crosstalk between epilepsy and dementia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Epilepsy and dementia are bidirectional. The purpose of this review was to investigate the epidemiological characteristics of and to identify the risk factors for epilepsy in patients with dementia and dementia in patients with epilepsy.

METHODS

We retrieved the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane and Web of Science databases through January 2023. Two individuals screened the articles, extracted the data, and used a random effects model to pool the estimates and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

From 3475 citations, 25 articles were included. The prevalence of seizures/epilepsy was 4% among dementia patients and 3% among Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. For vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia, the pooled period prevalence of seizures/epilepsy was 6%, 3%, and 2%, respectively. Baseline early-onset AD was associated with the highest risk of 5-year epilepsy (pooled hazard ratios: 4.06; 95% CI: 3.25-5.08). Dementia patients had a 2.29-fold greater risk of seizures/epilepsy than non-dementia patients (95% CI: 1.37-3.83). Moreover, for baseline epilepsy, the pooled prevalence of dementia was 17% (95% CI: 10-25%), and that of AD was 15% (95% CI: 9-21%). The pooled results suggested that epilepsy is associated with a greater risk of dementia (risk ratio: 2.83, 95% CI: 1.64-4.88).

CONCLUSIONS

There are still gaps in epidemiology regarding the correlation between dementia types and epilepsy, vascular risk factors, and the impact of antiseizure medication or cognitive improvement drugs on epilepsy and AD comorbidity.

Profile of Chinese Cluster Headache Register Individual Study (CHRIS): Clinical characteristics, diagnosis and treatment status data of 816 patients in China

BACKGROUND

The clinical profile of cluster headache may differ among different regions of the world, warranting interest in the data obtained from the initial Chinese Cluster Headache Register Individual Study (CHRIS) for better understanding.

METHODS

We conducted a multicenter, prospective, longitudinal cohort study on cluster headache across all 31 provinces of China, aiming to gather clinical characteristics, treatment approaches, imaging, electrophysiological and biological samples.

RESULTS

In total 816 patients were enrolled with a male-to-female ratio of 4.33:1. The mean age at consultation was 34.98 ± 9.91 years, and 24.89 ± 9.77 years at onset. Only 2.33% were diagnosed with chronic cluster headache, and 6.99% had a family history of the condition. The most common bout was one to two times per year (45.96%), lasting two weeks to one month (44.00%), and occurring frequently in spring (76.23%) and winter (73.04%). Of these, 68.50% experienced one to two attacks per day, with the majority lasting one to two hours (45.59%). The most common time for attacks was between 9 am and 12 pm (75.86%), followed by 1 am and 3 am (43.48%). Lacrimation (78.80%) was the most predominant autonomic symptom reported. Furthermore, 39.22% of patients experienced a delay of 10 years or more in receiving a correct diagnosis. Only 35.67% and 24.26% of patients received common acute and preventive treatments, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Due to differences in ethnicity, genetics and lifestyle conditions, CHRIS has provided valuable baseline data from China. By establishing a dynamic cohort with comprehensive multidimensional data, it aims to advance the management system for cluster headache in China.

Suxiao Jiuxin Pill alleviates myocardial ischemia/reperfusion-induced autophagy via miR-193a-3p/ALKBH5 pathway

BACKGROUND

Myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (MIRI) poses a formidable challenge to cardiac reperfusion therapy due to the absence of effective clinical interventions. Methylation of N6-methyladenosine (m6A), which is the most common post-transcriptional modifications occurring within mammalian mRNA, is believed to be involved in MIRI by modulating autophagy. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a crucial role in regulating gene expression at the post-transcriptional level and have been implicated in the regulation of m6A methylation. Suxiao Jiuxin Pill (SJP) is extensively used in China for the clinical treatment of angina pectoris and confers benefits to patients with acute coronary syndrome who have received percutaneous coronary intervention. However, the precise mechanisms underlying SJP intervention in MIRI remain unclear.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to demonstrate, both in vivo and in vitro, that SJP could alleviate autophagy in MIRI by regulating miR-193a-3p to target and upregulate the demethylase ALKBH5.

METHODS

An in vitro hypoxia/reoxygenation model was established using H9c2 cells, while an in vivo MIRI model was established using Wistar rats. A lentivirus harboring the precursor sequence of miR-193a-3p was employed for its overexpression. Adeno-associated viruses were used to silence both miR-193a-3p and ALKBH5 expressions. Cardiac function, infarct size, and tissue structure in rats were assessed using echocardiography, triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining, and HE staining, respectively. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) was employed to detect the levels of apoptosis in rat cardiac tissue. m6A methylation levels were assessed using colorimetry. GFP-RFP-LC3B was used to monitor autophagic flux and transmission electron microscopy was used to evaluate the development of autophagosomes. Western Blot and qRT-PCR were respectively employed to assess the levels of autophagy-related proteins and miR-193a-3p.

RESULTS

SJP alleviated autophagy, preserved cardiac function, and minimized myocardial damage in the hearts of MIRI rats. SJP attenuated autophagy in H/R H9C2 cells. Elevated levels of miR-193a-3p were observed in the cardiac tissues of MIRI rats and H/R H9C2 cells, whereas SJP downregulated miR-193a-3p levels in these models. ALKBH5, a target gene of miR-193, is negatively regulated by miR-193a-3p. Upon overexpression of miR-193a-3p or silencing of ALKBH5, m6A methylation decreased, and the autophagy-attenuating effects of SJP and its components, senkyunolide A and l-borneol, were lost in H/R H9C2 cells, whereas in MIRI rats, these effects were not abolished but merely weakened. Further investigation indicated that the METTL3 inhibitor STM2475, combined with the silencing of miR-193a-3p, similarly attenuated autophagy in the hearts of MIRI rats. This suggests that a reduction in m6A methylation is involved in autophagy alleviation.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated that SJP mitigates autophagy in MIRI by downregulating miR-193a-3p, enhancing ALKBH5 expression, and reducing m6A methylation, a mechanism potentially attributed to its constituents, senkyunolide A and l-borneol.

The association of long-term trajectories of BMI, its variability, and metabolic syndrome: a 30-year prospective cohort study

Background

Limited data exists on how early-life weight changes relate to metabolic syndrome (MetS) risk in midlife. This study examines the association between long-term trajectories of body mass index (BMI), its variability, and MetS risk in Chinese individuals.

Methods

In the Hanzhong Adolescent Hypertension study (March 10, 1987-June 3, 2017), 1824 participants with at least five BMI measurements from 1987 to 2017 were included. Using group-based trajectory modeling, different BMI trajectories were identified. BMI variability was assessed through standard deviation (SD), variability independent of the mean (VIM), and average real variability (ARV). Logistic regression analyzed the relationship between BMI trajectory, BMI variability, and MetS occurrence in midlife (URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT02734472).

Findings

BMI trajectories were categorized as low-increasing (34.4%), moderate-increasing (51.8%), and high-increasing (13.8%). Compared to the low-increasing group, the odds ratios (ORs) [95% CIs] for MetS were significantly higher in moderate (4.27 [2.63-6.91]) and high-increasing groups (13.11 [6.30-27.31]) in fully adjusted models. Additionally, higher BMI variabilities were associated with increased MetS odds (ORs for SDBMI, VIMBMI, and ARVBMI: 2.30 [2.02-2.62], 1.22 [1.19-1.26], and 4.29 [3.38-5.45]). Furthermore, BMI trajectories from childhood to adolescence were predictive of midlife MetS, with ORs in moderate (1.49 [1.00-2.23]) and high-increasing groups (2.45 [1.22-4.91]). Lastly, elevated BMI variability in this period was also linked to higher MetS odds (ORs for SDBMI, VIMBMI, and ARVBMI: 1.24 [1.08-1.42], 1.00 [1.00-1.01], and 1.21 [1.05-1.38]).

Interpretation

Our study suggests that both early-life BMI trajectories and BMI variability could be predictive of incident MetS in midlife.

Funding

This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China No. 82070437 (J.-J.M.), the Clinical Research Award of the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University of China (No. XJTU1AF-CRF-2022-002, XJTU1AF2021CRF-021, and XJTU1AF-CRF-2023-004), the Key R&D Projects in Shaanxi Province (Grant No. 2023-ZDLSF-50), the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College (2017-CXGC03-2), and the International Joint Research Centre for Cardiovascular Precision Medicine of Shaanxi Province (2020GHJD-14).

Impaired kidney function and the risk of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease among Chinese hypertensive adults: Using three different equations to estimate the glomerular filtration rate

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to seek accurate assessments of the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in a Chinese hypertensive population to identify individuals at high risk for chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression. Then, the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and all-cause death due to kidney injury were further investigated under appropriate GFR-estimation equations.

METHODS

In this prospective follow-up cohort study of 10,171 hypertensive patients, we compared the discrimination power of a trio of GFR-estimation equations using Harrell's C-index, measuring the model fit by calculating the Akaike information criterion. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were respectively used to calculate the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval [CI] values for CKD progression. In addition, we also assessed the risk of CVD and all-cause death with impaired renal function using multivariable-adjusted Cox regression models.

RESULTS

The Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) equation showed the highest C-index range for the predicted probability of CKD progression in the fully adjusted model. During MDRD analysis, a low eGFR (60-89 mL/min/1.73m2 or < 60 mL/min/1.73m2) was an independent risk factor for CVD, especially stroke (1.28 [95% CI, 1.05-1.55] and 1.89 [95% CI, 1.08-3.31]), as well as all-cause mortality (1.28 [95% CI, 1.09-1.50] and 1.68 [95% CI, 1.01-2.78]).

CONCLUSIONS

The MDRD equation seems to be more suitable for screening CKD progression in Chinese hypertensive populations, targeting potential risk factors for effective prevention to reduce renal impairment so as to further limit CVD morbidity and mortality.

Genomic sequencing revealed recombination event between clade 1 and clade 2 occurs in circulating varicella-zoster virus in China

Varicella-zoster virus (VZV), a member of the Alphaherpesvirinae subfamily, causes varicella in primary infections and establishing a latent stage in sensory ganglia. Upon reactivation, VZV causes herpes zoster with severe neuralgia, especially in elderly patients. The mutation rate for VZV is comparatively lower than the other members of other alpha herpesviruses. Due to geographic isolation, different genotypes of VZV are circulating on separate continents. Here, we successfully isolated a VZV from the vesicular fluid of a youth zoster patient. Based on the single-nucleotide polymorphism profiles of different open reading frames that define the genotype, this newly isolated VZV primarily represents genotype clade 2 but also has characteristics of genotype clade 1. The next-generation sequencing provided a nearly full-length sequence, and further phylogenetic analysis revealed that this VZV isolate is distinct from clades 1 and 2. The Recombination Detection Program indicates that a possible recombinant event may occur between the VZV isolate and clade 1. In summary, we found that there is a circulating VZV isolate in China that may represent a recombinant between clade 1 and clade 2, providing new concerns that need to be considered in the future VZV vaccination program.

Signals From Inflamed Perivascular Adipose Tissue Contribute to Small Vessel Dysfunction in Women Living With the Human Immunodeficiency Virus

INTRODUCTION

People living with the human immunodeficiency virus (PWH) have microvascular disease. Since perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) regulates microvascular function and adipose tissue is inflamed in PWH, we tested the hypothesis that PWH have inflamed PVAT that impairs the function of their small vessels.

METHODS

Subcutaneous small arteries were dissected with or without (+ or -) PVAT from a gluteal skin biopsy from 11 women with treated HIV (WWH) aged < 50 years and 10 matched women without HIV and studied on isometric myographs. Nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured by fluorescence microscopy. Adipokines and markers of inflammation and ROS were assayed in PVAT.

RESULTS

PVAT surrounding the small arteries in control women significantly (P < 0.05) enhanced acetylcholine (Ach)-induced endothelium dependent relaxation and NO and reduced contractions to thromboxane and endothelin-1. However, these effects of PVAT were reduced significantly (P < 0.05) in WWH whose PVAT released less adiponectin but more markers of ROS and inflammation. Moderation of contractions by PVAT were correlated positively with adipose adiponectin.

CONCLUSION

PVAT from WWH has oxidative stress, inflammation and reduced release of adiponectin that may contribute to enhanced contractions and therefore could promote small artery dysfunction.

RBM15 Knockdown Impairs the Malignancy of Cervical Cancer by Mediating m6A Modification of Decorin

Cervical cancer (CC) is considered to be the most prevalent female malignancies across the globe and a prime cause of mortality among women. RNA-binding motif protein 15 (RBM15) has been elucidated to participate in tumorigenesis in various cancers by regulating RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation. However, its significance and detailed molecular mechanisms remain uncertain in CC. Using CGA database and qRT-PCR, the RBM15 expression was found to be elevated in CC tissues. After performing EdU, wound healing, Transwell migration, and xenograft tumor assays, RBM15 knockdown inhibited the malignant properties of CC cells along with the tumor development of CC cells in vivo. Moreover, qRT-PCR, MeRIP, and western blotting experiments were also confirmed that decorin (DCN) downregulated in CC was a direct substrate of RBM15 m6A methylation, and RBM15 knockdown could enhance DCN expression in CC cells. The anti-tumor effects of RBM15 knockdown could be abolished by DCN silencing. Overall, RBM15 knockdown lowered the tumorigenesis of CC both in vitro and in vivo, and it does so via mediating m6A modification of DCN mRNA in CC cells.

Targeting JMJD1C to selectively disrupt tumor Treg cell fitness enhances antitumor immunity

Regulatory T (Treg) cells are critical for immune tolerance but also form a barrier to antitumor immunity. As therapeutic strategies involving Treg cell depletion are limited by concurrent autoimmune disorders, identification of intratumoral Treg cell-specific regulatory mechanisms is needed for selective targeting. Epigenetic modulators can be targeted with small compounds, but intratumoral Treg cell-specific epigenetic regulators have been unexplored. Here, we show that JMJD1C, a histone demethylase upregulated by cytokines in the tumor microenvironment, is essential for tumor Treg cell fitness but dispensable for systemic immune homeostasis. JMJD1C deletion enhanced AKT signals in a manner dependent on histone H3 lysine 9 dimethylation (H3K9me2) demethylase and STAT3 signals independently of H3K9me2 demethylase, leading to robust interferon-γ production and tumor Treg cell fragility. We have also developed an oral JMJD1C inhibitor that suppresses tumor growth by targeting intratumoral Treg cells. Overall, this study identifies JMJD1C as an epigenetic hub that can integrate signals to establish tumor Treg cell fitness, and we present a specific JMJD1C inhibitor that can target tumor Treg cells without affecting systemic immune homeostasis.

Incidence and influencing factors of urinary incontinence in stroke patients: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The incidence of stroke in China ranks first in the world and is the leading cause of death and disability in adults. Urinary incontinence is an independent risk factor leading to poor prognosis of stroke. However, studies on the incidence of urinary incontinence in stroke patients and its influencing factors are different, fluctuate greatly, and there is no unified basis.

OBJECTIVE

To quantitatively analyze the incidence of urinary incontinence in stroke patients and its related influencing factors, and further make public health strategic decisions to reduce the occurrence of adverse outcomes.

METHODS

Computer searches were conducted in PubMed, Medline, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, CLNAHL Complete, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Chinese Biomedical database(CBM), Wan Fang Database, VIP Database, observational studies such as cohort studies, case-control studies or cross-sectional studies on the incidence or influencing factors of urinary incontinence in stroke patients from the establishment of the database to the publication in August 2023. Studies selection, quality evaluation and data extraction were conducted independently by two researchers according to the established search strategy. Stata 14.0 statistical software was used for meta-analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 21 manuscripts were included, with a cumulative sample size of 7327 cases, including 2887 patients with urinary incontinence. Meta-analysis results showed that the incidence of urinary incontinence in stroke patients was 38% [95% confidence interval (34%, 41%)], including married patients and lacunar infarction were the protective factors for urinary incontinence in stroke patients, while age, chaperone, low educational level, chronic cough, lesion sites (parietal lobe, frontal lobe, and temporal lobe), stroke type (cerebral hemorrhage, subarachnoid hemorrhage and cerebral hemorrhage complicated with subarachnoid hemorrhage), dysfunction (aphasia dyslexia, dysphagia, eye movement abnormalities, leg muscle disorders), post-stroke depression, the higher the NIHSS score, the lower the Bachmann index (BI) score, OCSP classification (total anterior circulation infarction) and other 11 items were risk factors for urinary incontinence in stroke patients.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of urinary incontinence in stroke patients is 38%. Marriage and lacunar infarction are the protective factors of urinary incontinence. Age, carer, low educational level, chronic cough, lesion site (parietal, frontal and temporal lobes), stroke type (cerebral hemorrhage, subarachnoid hemorrhage, cerebral hemorrhage combined with subarachnoid hemorrhage), dysfunction (aphasia and dysarthria syndrome, dysphagia, eye movement abnormalities, leg muscle disorders), post-stroke depression, and higher NIHSS score, Lower BI score and OCSP classification (total anterior circulation infarction) were risk factors for urinary incontinence in stroke patients.

Genetic variants in the HLA region contribute to the risk of cerebral palsy

Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common physical disability in childhood, and genetic factors play an important role in its pathogenesis. However, the genetic contributions remain incompletely elucidated. Here, we conducted a two-stage association study between 1090 CP cases and 1100 healthy controls after whole exome sequencing. The human leukocyte antigen (HLA) allelic predispositions were further analyzed in overall CP and subgroups using multivariate logistic regression. We found a strong signal in the HLA region on chromosome 6, where rs3131787 harbored the most significant association with CP (P = 2.05 × 10-14, OR = 2.22). In comparison to controls, the carrier frequencies of HLA-B*13:02 were significantly higher in children with CP (9.82 % in control vs 19.27 % in CP, P = 1.03 × 10-4, OR = 2.17). Furthermore, the effect of HLA-B*13:02 on increasing the risk of CP mainly existed in cryptogenic CP without exposure to premature birth, low birth weight, birth asphyxia, or periventricular leukomalacia. This study indicated a strong association of HLA variants with CP, which implied that immune dysregulation resulting from immunogenetic variants might underlie the pathogenesis of CP. Our findings provide genetic evidence that an immunomodulator may serve as a promising therapeutic intervention for patients with CP by reinstating the neuroinflammation hemostasis.

Functional groups effect on the toxicity of modified ZIF-90 to Photobacterium phosphoreum

Zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF) is of wide interest in biomedical applications due to its extraordinary properties such as high storage capacity, functionality and favorable biocompatibility. However, more comprehensive safety assessments are still essential before ZIF is broadly used in biomedicine. Using the characteristic that aldehyde groups on the surface of ZIF-90 can be modified with other functional groups, a series of ZIF-90s modified with different functional groups (oxime group, carboxyl group, amino group and sulfhydryl group) were synthesized to investigate the effect of functionalization on the toxicity of ZIF-90. ZIF-90 series showed concentration-dependent toxic effects on Photobacterium phosphoreum T3 and the functionalized ZIF-90s are more toxic than pristine ZIF-90, with the ZIF-90 modified with amino group (ZIF-90-NH2) showing the strongest toxicity (IC50 = 23.06 mg/L). Based on the results of the cellular assay and stability exploration, we concluded that corresponding imidazole-ligand release and the property of positively charged are responsible for the elevated toxicity of ZIF-90-NH2. Cell membrane damage, oxidative damage and luminescence damage are the main contributors to the toxic effects of ZIF-90 series. This study explored the effect of surface functionalization on the toxicity of ZIF and proposed mechanistic clues for the safety application of ZIF.

Reduced IgG2 with thrombocytopenia predicts mortality in patients with influenza pneumonia

BACKGROUND

Thrombocytopenia is a common disorder during influenza that is related to high mortality.

OBJECTIVES

A prospective study was performed to investigate the association of immunoglobulin subclass changes accompanying incident thrombocytopenia with clinical outcomes in patients with severe influenza.

METHODS

96 influenza patients were recruited and divided into two groups, patients with thrombocytopenia (n = 30) and patients without thrombocytopenia (n = 66). Plasma microarrays were used for quantitative analysis of immunoglobulins. The endpoint was 28-day mortality. Continuous platelet count, d-dimer, level of each Ig subclass and other variables were compared between the two groups. Kaplan-Meier curve was taken to analyze the 28-day survival rate of the two groups and Cox regression analysis was performed to identify variables independently associated with 28-day mortality.

RESULTS

Patients with thrombocytopenia had significantly high values of d-dimer at admission and when platelet lowest with high SOFA score. Their IgA2, IgG2, and IgG4 values were also lower than those without thrombocytopenia. Patients without thrombocytopenia had a higher 28-day survival rate than those in the thrombocytopenia group. In the multivariate Cox regression model, age (HR = 1.036, 95%CI = 1.011-1.062), IgG2 (HR = 0.990, 95%CI = 0.982-0.998), platelet minimum within 28 days (HR = 0.991, 95%CI = 0.982-0.999) and d-dimer when platelet lowest (HR = 1.091, 95%CI = 1.047-1.137) were independently related to 28-day mortality.

CONCLUSION

Decreased IgG2 may be associated with thrombocytopenia. A coexistence of thrombocytopenia, IgG2 reduction and d-dimer elevation may improve the accuracy of mortality prediction in patients with influenza pneumonia.

The impact of the carbon trading market on urban coordinated development in China

Evaluating the effects of China's carbon emission trading scheme (ETS) is crucial for the coordinated development of Chinese cities. Therefore, based on the panel data of 242 cities in China from 2008 to 2019, this paper uses the multi-period difference-in-difference (DID) model to comprehensively evaluate the impact of carbon market on the coordinated development of cities from the perspectives of carbon market policy and carbon market efficiency, and then analyzes the mechanism and heterogeneity of the effect of carbon market efficiency. The results show that both carbon market policy and carbon market efficiency can promote the coordinated development of cities. Science and education expenditure plays a significant intermediary role in the impact of carbon market efficiency on the coordinated development of cities. The heterogeneity test finds that the stricter the performance penalty system, the higher the level of urban coordinated development, and the stronger the effect of carbon market efficiency. The findings of this paper provide policy recommendations for further improving the construction of China's pilot and national ETS and enhancing the coordinated development of Chinese cities.

Combining directed evolution with high cell permeability for high-level cadaverine production in engineered Escherichia coli

The biosynthesis of cadaverine from lysine is an environmentally promising technology, that could contribute to a more sustainable approach to manufacturing bio-nylon 5X. However, the titer of biosynthesized cadaverine has still not reached a sufficient level for industrial production. A powerful green cell factory was developed to enhance cadaverine production by regulating lipopolysaccharide (LPS) genes and improving membrane permeability. Firstly, 10 LPS mutant strains were constructed and the effect on the growth was investigated. Then, the lysine decarboxylase (CadA) was overexpressed in 10 LPS mutant strains of Escherichia coli MG1655 and the ability to produce cadaverine was compared. Using 20.0 g L-1 of L-lysine hydrochloride (L-lysine-HCl) as the substrate for the biotransformation reaction, Cad02 and Cad06 strains exhibited high production levels of cadaverine, with 8.95 g L-1 and 7.55 g L-1 respectively while the control strain Cad00 only 4.92 g L-1 . Directed evolution of CadA was also used to improve its stability under alkaline conditions. The cadaverine production of the Cad02-M mutant stain increased by 1.86 times at pH 8.0. Finally, the production process was scaled up using recombinant whole cells as catalysts, achieving a high titer of 211 g L-1 cadaverine (96.8%) by fed-batch bioconversion. This study demonstrates the potential role of LPS in enhancing the efficiency of mass transfer between substrate and enzymes in vivo by increasing cell permeability. The results indicate that the argumentation of cell permeability could not only significantly enhance the biotransformation efficiency of cadaverine, but also provide a universally applicable, straightforward, environment-friendly, and cost-effective method for the biosynthesis of other high-value chemicals.

Cooperative coparenting and the associations with adolescent behavioral problems and delinquency in unmarried families

INTRODUCTION

Coparenting in unmarried families is a protective factor for positive adolescent adjustment. Although the relations between coparenting and adolescent outcomes have been investigated, it remains unclear whether the specific patterns of maternal and paternal coparenting are associated with adolescent behavioral outcomes.

METHODS

The present study includs a longitudinal cohort of 1143 triads of unmarried parents and their adolescents to examine the associations between different patterns of coparenting and adolescent behavioral problems and delinquency. The data were drawn from the Future of Families and Child Wellbeing Study in the United States. Our study used six waves of publicly available data at children's birth, ages 1, 3, 5, 9, and 15.

RESULTS

The latent profile analyses identified four coparenting profiles of maternal and paternal coparenting perceived by the other unmarried parent. Comparing average levels of coparenting between mothers and fathers, the profiles were entitled Low Mom-Low Dad, High Mom-Medium Dad, Low Mom-Medium Dad, and High Mom-High Dad. Parents characteristics, such as cohabitation and marital status, predicted the likelihood of being in cooperative coparenting profiles. Furthermore, all the identified coparenting profiles predicted adolescent externalizing behavioral problems; only the high mom cooperative coparenting profiles predicted adolescent internalizing behavioral problems; none of the coparenting profiles predicted adolescent delinquency.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study adds empirical evidence for coparenting research by revealing that coparenting patterns vary in unmarried families and that cooperative coparenting benefits child behavioral outcomes. The findings encourage introducing different coparenting training programs targeting unmarried parents' diverse needs, thus promoting positive adolescent adjustment.