Role of glutaminyl-peptide cyclotransferase in breast cancer doxorubicin sensitivity

Doxorubicin (DOX) is one of the most effective and widely used chemotherapeutic drugs. However, DOX resistance is a critical risk problem for breast cancer treatment. Previous studies have demonstrated that metadherin (MTDH) involves in DOX resistance in breast cancer, but the exact mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we found that glutaminyl-peptide cyclotransferase (QPCT) was a MTDH DOX resistance-related downstream gene in breast cancer. Elevated expression of QPCT was found in the GEPIA database, breast cancer tissue, and breast cancer cells. Clinical data showed that QPCT expression was positively associated with poor prognosis in DOX-treated patients. Overexpression of QPCT could promote the proliferation, invasion and migration, and reduce DOX sensitivity in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. Mechanistically, MTDH positively regulates the expressions of NF-κB (p65) and QPCT, and NF-κB (p65) directly regulates the expression of QPCT. Therefore, MTDH/NF-κB (p65)/QPCT signal axis was proposed. Collectively, our findings delineate the mechanism by which the MTDH/NF-κB (p65) axis regulate QPCT signaling and suggest that this complex may play an essential role in breast cancer progression and affect DOX sensitivity.

Modulating charge oriented accumulation via interfacial chemical-bond on In2O3/Bi2MoO6 heterostructures for photocatalytic nitrogen fixation

Photocatalytic nitrogen fixation presents an eco-friendly approach to converting atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia (NH3), but the process faces challenges due to rapid interface charge recombination. Here, we report an innovative charge transfer and oriented accumulation strategy using an In-O-Mo bond-modulated S-scheme heterostructure composed of In2O3/Bi2MoO6 (In/BMO) synthesized using a simple electrostatic assembly. The unique interfacial arrangement with optimal photocatalyst configuration (3 % In/BMO) enabled enhanced photogenerated electron separation and transfer, leading to a remarkable nitrogen fixation rate of approximately 150.9 μmol·gcat-1·h-1 under visible light irradiation. The performance of the photocatalyst was 9-fold and 27-fold higher than that of its pristine components, Bi2MoO6 and In2O3, respectively. The experimental and theoretical evaluation deemed interfacial In-O-Mo bonds crucial for rapid transfer and charge-oriented accumulation. Whereas the generated internal electric field drove the spatial separation and transfer of photo-generated electrons and holes, significantly enhancing the photocatalytic N2-to-NH3 conversion efficiency. The proposed work lays the foundation for designing S-scheme heterostructures with highly efficient interfacial bonds, offering a promising avenue for substantial improvements in photocatalytic nitrogen fixation.

Silent information regulator 2 deficiency exacerbates chronic cold exposure-induced colonic injury and p65 activation in mice

Cold is a common stressor that threatens colonic health by affecting internal homeostasis. From the literature, Silent information regulator 2 (SIRT2) may have important roles during cold stress, but this conjecture requires investigation. To address this knowledge gap, we investigated the effects of SIRT2 on colonic injury in chronically cold-exposure mice. In a previous study, we showed that SIRT2 regulated p65 activation after cold exposure. In the current study, mice were exposed to 4 °C for 3 h/day for 3 weeks to simulate a chronic cold exposure environment. Chronic cold exposure shortened colon length, disrupted tight junctions in colonic epithelial tissue, and disordered colonic flora. Chronic cold exposure also increased p65 acetylation levels, promoted nuclear factor (NF)-κB activation, and increased the expression of its downstream pro-inflammatory factors, while SIRT2 knockdown aggravated the consequences of tissue structure disruption and increased inflammatory factors brought about by chronic cold exposure to some extent, but could alleviate the downregulation of colonic tight junction-related proteins to some extent. We also observed direct SIRT2 regulatory effects toward p65, and in Caco-2 cells treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), SIRT2 knockdown increased p65 acetylation levels and pro-inflammatory factor expression, while SIRT2 overexpression reversed these phenomena. Therefore, SIRT2 deletion exacerbated chronic cold exposure-induced colonic injury and p65 activation in mice. Mechanistically, p65 modification by SIRT2 via deacetylation may affect NF-κB signaling. These findings suggest that SIRT2 is a key target of colonic health maintenance under chronic cold exposure conditions.

Novel prognostic nomogram for predicting recurrence-free survival in medullary thyroid carcinoma

AIMS

Recently, there have been attempts to improve prognostication and therefore better guide treatment for patients with medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). In 2022, the International MTC Grading System (IMTCGS) was developed and validated using a multi-institutional cohort of 327 patients. The aim of the current study was to build upon the findings of the IMTCGS to develop and validate a prognostic nomogram to predict recurrence-free survival (RFS) in MTC.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Data from 300 patients with MTC from five centres across the USA, Europe, and Australia were used to develop a prognostic nomogram that included the following variables: age, sex, AJCC stage, tumour size, mitotic count, necrosis, Ki67 index, lymphovascular invasion, microscopic extrathyroidal extension, and margin status. A process of 10-fold cross-validation was used to optimize the model's performance. To assess discrimination and calibration, the area-under-the-curve (AUC) of a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, concordance-index (C-index), and dissimilarity index (D-index) were calculated. Finally, the model was externally validated using a separate cohort of 87 MTC patients. The model demonstrated very strong performance, with an AUC of 0.94, a C-index of 0.876, and a D-index of 19.06. When applied to the external validation cohort, the model had an AUC of 0.9.

CONCLUSIONS

Using well-established clinicopathological prognostic variables, we developed and externally validated a robust multivariate prediction model for RFS in patients with resected MTC. The model demonstrates excellent predictive capability and may help guide decisions on patient management. The nomogram is freely available online at https://nomograms.shinyapps.io/MTC_ML_DFS/.

Cellulose nanocrystal-based polymer hydrogel embedded with iron oxide nanorods for efficient arsenic removal

A cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) polymer hydrogel containing magnetic iron oxide nanorods (Fe3O4NRs) was prepared for As(III) removal in water. Systematic studies on the performance of these prepared CNC-based composite hydrogels for the removal of As(III) have been undertaken. The maximum adsorption capacity of the CNC-g-PAA/qP4VP (CPqP) hydrogel was 241.3 mg/g. After introduction of Fe3O4NRs in the hydrogel, the maximum adsorption capacity of the resulting Fe3O4NRs@CNC-g-PAA/qP4VP (FN@CPqP) hydrogel was further improved to 263.0 mg/g. The high adsorption performance can be attributed to the facts that the 3D interconnected porous network of the hydrogel allows As species to easily enter into the hydrogel, the quaternized P4VP chains provides more adsorption sites, Fe3O4NRs uniformly distributed in the internal cavity of the hydrogel significantly reduces the nanoparticle aggregation. The adsorption kinetics indicated that the adsorption of arsenic by the hydrogel was mainly chemisorption. The isotherm analysis revealed that the adsorption of arsenic by the hydrogel was principally monolayer adsorption on a homogeneous surface. Moreover, the as-prepared CNC-based polymer hydrogels exhibited good stability and reusability with negligible performance loss after five adsorption-desorption cycles. The novel FN@CPqP hydrogel demonstrates great potential as a cost-effective adsorbent for the removal of arsenic contaminants from wastewater.

Coffee intake reduced gout risk by decreasing urate and urea while increasing SHBG levels in plasma: a mediation Mendelian randomization study

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate the causal relationships between specific dietary habits and the risk of gout, while identifying the mediators involved in these associations.

METHODS

We initially assessed the causal effects of five dietary habits on gout by two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR). Subsequently, we identified mediators from five plasma metabolites by two-step MR, including urate, urea, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), interleukin-18 (IL-18), and C-reactive protein (CRP). Next, we quantified the proportion of mediation effects by multivariable Mendelian randomization (MVMR). Last, we performed reverse MR analyses. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to enhance the robustness of our findings.

RESULTS

Only coffee intake demonstrated a significant negative casual effect on gout (inverse variance weighted: OR = 0.444, p = 0.049). In two-step MR, coffee intake decreased urate and urea while increased SHBG levels, but did not affect IL-18 and CRP levels. Besides, urate and urea showed positive causal effects while SHBG exhibited a negative impact on gout. In mediation analysis, urate, urea, and SHBG respectively mediated 53.60%, 16.43%, and 4.81% of the total causal effect of coffee intake on gout. The three mediators collectively mediated 27.45% of the total effect. Reverse MR analyses suggested no significant reverse causal effects. Sensitivity analyses supported the reliability of our causal inferences.

CONCLUSION

Coffee intake reduced gout risk by decreasing urate and urea while increasing SHBG levels in plasma. These findings accentuate the benefits of coffee intake for gout management. The mediators may provide a novel insight into potential therapeutic targets for gout prevention. Key Points • This study determines the causally protective effect of coffee intake on gout. • We reveal that coffee intake reduced the risk of gout by decreasing urate and urea while increasing SHBG levels in plasma. • Identifying specific mediators in the causal pathway from coffee intake to gout provides valuable information for clinical interventions of gout.

Platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio predicts tumor response and survival of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma undergoing immunotherapies

BACKGROUND

Lymphocyte-related factors were associated with survival outcome of different types of cancers. Nevertheless, the association between lymphocytes-related factors and tumor response of immunotherapy remains unclear.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study. Eligible participants included patients with unresectable or advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who underwent immunotherapy as their first-line treatment. Radiological assessment of tumor response adhered to RECIST 1.1 and HCC-specific modified RECIST (mRECIST) criteria. Univariate and multivariate logistic analyses were employed to analyze clinical factors associated with tumor response. Kaplan-Meier survivial analysis were employed to compare progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) across different clinical factors. Furthermore, patients who received treatment with either a combination of bevacizumab and anti-PD-1(L1) antibody (Beva group) or tyrosine-kinase inhibitor (TKI) and anti-PD-1 antibody (TKI group) were examined to explore the relation between clinical factors and tumor response.

RESULTS

A total of 208 patients were enrolled in this study. The median PFS and OS were 9.84 months and 24.44 months,respectively. An independent factor associated with a more favorable tumor response to immunotherapy was identified when PLR<100. Patients with PLR<100 had longer PFS than other patients, while OS showed no significant difference. Further analysis revealed that PLR exhibited superior prognostic value in patients of the Beva group as compared to those in the TKI group.

CONCLUSIONS

There exisits an association between PLR and tumor response as well as survival outcomes in patients receiving immunotherapy, particularly those treated with the combination of bevacizumab and anti-PD-1.

Fluorescence Switching and Photoisomerization of a Spiropyran Molecular Photoswitch through Confined Spaces Regulation in Crystals

Spiropyran (SP) and its derivatives are highly attractive owing to their distinctive merits in high contrast and fast response read-out systems. However, the realization of photoswitching properties of SP is hindered in the aggregate state, particularly in crystals owing to the dense packing of molecules leading to insufficient study of the relationship between the molecular structure/stacking mode and photoswitching behavior. Herein, we report three SP derivatives: different flexible chains (carboxyl group for SP-0 and ester group for SP-1) are attached to the indoline moiety, while the ester group is attached to the chromene moiety for SP-2. SP-1 exhibits fluorescent photoswitching properties in crystals due to the weak intermolecular interactions resulting in enough free space for the photoisomerization. The presence of hydrogen bonds in SP-0 enhances the molecular interactions to restrict the photoisomerization, and the ester group of SP-2 impacts the thermodynamic properties, thereby limiting the realization of photoswitching of SP-2.

Effects of cadmium and zinc interactions on the physiological biochemistry and enrichment characteristics of Iris pseudacorus

Compound pollution with cadmium (Cd) and zinc (Zn) is common in nature. The effects of compounded Cd and Zn on the growth and development of Iris pseudacorus in the environment and the plant's potential to remediate heavy metals in the environment remain unclear. In this study, the effects of single and combined Cd and Zn stress on I. pseudacorus growth and the enrichment of heavy metals in I. pseudacorus seedlings were investigated. The results showed that under Cd (160 μM) and Zn (800 μM) stress, plant growth was significantly inhibited and photosynthetic performance was affected. Cd+Zn200 (160 μM + 200 μM) reduced the levels of malondialdehyde, hydrogen peroxide, and non-protein thiols by 31.29%, 53.20%, and 13.29%, respectively, in the aboveground tissues compared with levels in the single Cd treatment. However, Cd+Zn800 (160 μM + 800 μM) had no effect. Cd and Zn800 inhibited the absorption of mineral elements, while Zn200 had little effect on plants. Compared with that for Cd treatment alone, Cd + Zn200 and Cd+Zn800 reduced the Cd content in aboveground tissues by 54.15% and 49.92%, respectively, but had no significant effect on Cd in the root system. Zn significantly reduced the Cd content in subcellular components and limited the content and proportion of Cd extracted using water and ethanol. These results suggest that a low supply of Zn reduces Cd accumulation in aboveground tissues by promoting antioxidant substances and heavy metal chelating agents, thus protecting the photosynthetic systems. The addition of Zn also reduced the mobility and bioavailability of Cd to alleviate its toxicity in I. pseudacorus.

Difunctionalization of gem-difluoroalkenes for amination and heteroarylation via metal-free photocatalysis

gem-Difluoroalkenes are widely used building blocks in fluorine chemistry. Herein, a metal-free photocatalytic amination and heteroarylation method of gem-difluoroalkenes with heteroaryl carboxylic acid oxime esters as substrates is reported. This environmentally benign reaction proceeds via radical-radical cross-coupling in energy-transfer-mediated photocatalysis and can be used in the rapid construction of heteroaryl difluoroethylamine scaffolds and late-stage modification of complex pharmaceutical structures.

Association between dietary fatty acids and urinary incontinence

Background

Dietary nutrient intake contributes to urination; however, the association between dietary nutrient intake, especially that of fat, and urinary incontinence (UI) is not well understood. The most common types of UI include stress UI (SUI) and urgency UI (UUI).

Objective

To investigate the potential effect(s) of dietary fat intake on UI and explore its mechanism of action in relation to body mass index (BMI).

Methods

A cross-sectional survey of data from 15,121 individuals (20-85 years of age) from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2001-2008), a random population-based sample, was performed. Data regarding dietary nutrient intake were collected through 24 h dietary recall interviews. UI and covariate data were collected through in-person interviews. UI was assessed according to the American Urological Association Symptom Index. The odds ratio (OR) for SUI and UUI were calculated using multivariate logistic regression analysis. The mediation effect was estimated using observational mediation analysis.

Results

Higher total fat intake was positively associated with increased odds for developing UI (OR 1.44 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.08-1.93]). Females who consumed more saturated fatty acids (SFA), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) were more likely to develop SUI. BMI partially explained the association between total fat, SFA, MUFA, and PUFA and SUI; the proportions of the mediation effect of BMI were 14.7%, 13.0%, 18.7%, and 16.3%, respectively.

Conclusions

Results of this study emphasize the key role of dietary fat intake in the prevalence of UI. Higher fat intake was positively associated with UI and BMI partially mediated the effect of fat intake on SUI.

Acupoints catgut embedding recovers leptin resistance via improving autophagy progress mediated by AMPK-mTOR signaling in obese mice

Purpose

Leptin resistance represents a primary pathological manifestation in obesity. Investigating potential treatments and associated mechanisms to restore leptin sensitivity is crucial for effective obesity management. This study aimed to explore the therapeutic potential of acupoints catgut embedding (ACE) in addressing obesity and its associated leptin resistance.

Methods

A simple obesity model was established by subjecting C57 male mice to a high-fat diet (HFD) for 12 weeks, followed by ACE treatment administered to half of the obese mice for a duration of 4 weeks. The levels of leptin and its receptor-lepRb, were assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Western blot analysis, respectively. Autophagy progression markers were evaluated through quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and Western blot analysis. Also, the liver autophagosomes were photographed using electron microscopy. The role of autophagy in regulating leptin resistance was elucidated using an autophagy suppression model.

Results

Comparative analyses demonstrated that ACE treatment resulted in a significant reduction in body weight and blood lipid levels compared to the HFD group. Furthermore, serum leptin levels decreased, while liver lepRb expression increased following ACE treatment. The mRNA and protein expression levels of autophagy in liver were adjusted by ACE treatment. Interestingly, the beneficial effects of ACE were attenuated upon the administration of an autophagy inhibitor. Additionally, ACE treatment led to the activation of the AMPK-mTOR signaling pathway, a crucial regulator of autophagy.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that ACE therapy holds promise for recovering leptin resistance by enhancing autophagy progression, mediated via the AMPK-mTOR signaling pathway in liver.

Scaffold hopping derived novel benzoxazepinone receptor-interacting protein kinase 1 (RIP1) inhibitors as anti-necroptosis agents: Anti-inflammatory effect in systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and epilepsy

Necroptosis is a type of regulated cell death known for its pro-inflammatory nature due to the substantial release of cellular contents. The phosphorylation of key proteins, namely RIP1, RIP3, and mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL), plays a pivotal role in the processes associated with necroptosis. Consequently, inhibiting the phosphorylation of any of these three key protein kinases could effectively block necroptosis. Utilizing a scaffold hopping strategy, we have successfully designed and synthesized a series of novel RIP1 inhibitors with selective and anti-necrotic properties, using compound o1 as the lead compound. In comparison to o1, SY1 has demonstrated heightened antinecroptosis activity and binding affinity in vitro studies. Moreover, SY1 has exhibited superior efficacy in both in vivo studies, specifically in the context of SIRS, and pharmacokinetic assessments. Furthermore, SY1 has proven effective in significantly suppressing the central inflammatory response induced by epilepsy.

Identification of an anaplastic subtype of prostate cancer amenable to therapies targeting SP1 or translation elongation

Histopathological heterogeneity is a hallmark of prostate cancer (PCa). Using spatial and parallel single-nucleus transcriptomics, we report an androgen receptor (AR)-positive but neuroendocrine-null primary PCa subtype with morphologic and molecular characteristics of small cell carcinoma. Such small cell-like PCa (SCLPC) is clinically aggressive with low AR, but high stemness and proliferation, activity. Molecular characterization prioritizes protein translation, represented by up-regulation of many ribosomal protein genes, and SP1, a transcriptional factor that drives SCLPC phenotype and overexpresses in castration-resistant PCa (CRPC), as two potential therapeutic targets in AR-indifferent CRPC. An SP1-specific inhibitor, plicamycin, effectively suppresses CRPC growth in vivo. Homoharringtonine, a Food And Drug Administration-approved translation elongation inhibitor, impedes CRPC progression in preclinical models and patients with CRPC. We construct an SCLPC-specific signature capable of stratifying patients for drug selectivity. Our studies reveal the existence of SCLPC in admixed PCa pathology, which may mediate tumor relapse, and establish SP1 and translation elongation as actionable therapeutic targets for CRPC.

XELOX (capecitabine plus oxaliplatin) plus bevacizumab (anti-VEGF-A antibody) with or without adoptive cell immunotherapy in the treatment of patients with previously untreated metastatic colorectal cancer: a multicenter, open-label, randomized, controlled, phase 3 trial

Fluoropyrimidine-based combination chemotherapy plus targeted therapy is the standard initial treatment for unresectable metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), but the prognosis remains poor. This phase 3 trial (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03950154) assessed the efficacy and adverse events (AEs) of the combination of PD-1 blockade-activated DC-CIK (PD1-T) cells with XELOX plus bevacizumab as a first-line therapy in patients with mCRC. A total of 202 participants were enrolled and randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive either first-line XELOX plus bevacizumab (the control group, n = 102) or the same regimen plus autologous PD1-T cell immunotherapy (the immunotherapy group, n = 100) every 21 days for up to 6 cycles, followed by maintenance treatment with capecitabine and bevacizumab. The main endpoint of the trial was progression-free survival (PFS). The median follow-up was 19.5 months. Median PFS was 14.8 months (95% CI, 11.6-18.0) for the immunotherapy group compared with 9.9 months (8.0-11.8) for the control group (hazard ratio [HR], 0.60 [95% CI, 0.40-0.88]; p = 0.009). Median overall survival (OS) was not reached for the immunotherapy group and 25.6 months (95% CI, 18.3-32.8) for the control group (HR, 0.57 [95% CI, 0.33-0.98]; p = 0.043). Grade 3 or higher AEs occurred in 20.0% of patients in the immunotherapy group and 23.5% in the control groups, with no toxicity-associated deaths reported. The addition of PD1-T cells to first-line XELOX plus bevacizumab demonstrates significant clinical improvement of PFS and OS with well tolerability in patients with previously untreated mCRC.

Melatonin promotes cell cycle progression of neural stem cells subjected to manganese via Nurr1

Excessive exposure to manganese (Mn) through drinking water and food during pregnancy significantly heightens the likelihood of neurodevelopmental damage in offspring. Multiple studies have indicated that melatonin (Mel) may help to relieve neurodevelopmental disorders caused by Mn, but potential mechanisms underlying this effect require further exploration. Here, we utilized primary neural stem cells (NSCs) as a model to elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying the protective function of Mel on Mn-induced cell proliferation dysfunction and cycle arrest. Our results showed that Mn disrupted the cell cycle in NSCs by suppressing positive regulatory proteins (CDK2, Cyclin A, Cyclin D1, and E2F1) and enhancing negative ones (p27KIP1 and p57KIP2), leading to cell proliferation dysfunction. Mel inhibited the Mn-dependent changes to these proteins and the cell cycle through nuclear receptor-related protein 1 (Nurr1), thus alleviating the proliferation dysfunction. Knockdown of Nurr1 using lentivirus-expressed shRNA in NSCs resulted in a diminished protective effect of Mel. We concluded that Mel mitigated Mn-induced proliferation dysfunction and cycle arrest in NSCs through Nurr1.

Enhanced 2-MIB degradation by UV-LED/chlorine process: reaction kinetics, wavelength dependence, influencing factors and degradation pathways

The efficient removal of 2-Methylisoborneol (2-MIB), a typical odour component, in water treatment plants (WTPs), poses a great challenge to conventional water treatment technology due to its chemical stability. In this study, the combination of ultraviolet light-emitting diode (UV-LED) and chlorine (UV-LED/chlorine) was exploited for 2-MIB removal, and the role of ultraviolet (UV) wavelength was investigated systematically. The results showed that UV or chlorination alone did not degrade 2-MIB effectively, and the UV/chlorine process could degrade 2-MIB efficiently, following the pseudo-first-order kinetic model. The 275 nm UV exhibited higher 2-MIB degradation efficiency in this UV-LED/chlorine system than 254 nm UV, 265 nm UV and 285 nm UV due to the highest mole adsorption coefficient and quantum yield of chlorine in 275 nm UV. ·OH and ·Cl produced in the 275 nm UV/chlorine system played major roles in 2-MIB degradation. HCO3- and Natural organic matter (NOM), prevalent in water, consumed ·OH and ·Cl, thus inhibiting the 2-MIB degradation by UV-LED/chlorine. In addition, NOM and 2-MIB could form a photonic competition effect. The degradation of 2-MIB by UV-LED/chlorine was done mainly through dehydration and demethylation, and odorous intermediates, such as camphor, were produced. 2-MIB was degraded through the α bond fracture and six-membered ring opening to form saturated or unsaturated hydrocarbons and aldehydes. Four DBPs, chloroform (CF), trichloroacetaldehyde (TCE), trichloroacetone (TCP) and dichloroacetone (DCP), were mainly generated, and CF was the most significant by-product.

The kiwifruit amyloplast proteome (kfALP): a resource to better understand the mechanisms underlying amyloplast biogenesis and differentiation

The biogenesis and differentiation (B&D) of amyloplasts contributes to fruit flavor and color. Here, remodeling of starch granules, thylakoids and plastoglobules was observed during development and ripening in two kiwifruit (Actinidia spp.) cultivars - yellow-fleshed 'Hort16A' and green-fleshed 'Hayward'. A protocol was developed to purify starch-containing plastids with a high degree of intactness, and amyloplast B&D was studied using label-free-based quantitative proteomic analyses in both cultivars. Over 3000 amyloplast-localized proteins were identified, of which >98% were quantified and defined as the kfALP (kiwifruit amyloplast proteome). The kfALP data were validated by Tandem-Mass-Tag (TMT) labeled proteomics in 'Hort16A'. Analysis of the proteomic data across development and ripening revealed: 1) a conserved increase in the abundance of proteins participating in starch synthesis/degradation during both amyloplast B&D; 2) up-regulation of proteins for chlorophyll degradation and of plastoglobule-localized proteins associated with chloroplast breakdown and plastoglobule formation during amyloplast differentiation; 3) constitutive expression of proteins involved in ATP supply and protein import during amyloplast B&D. Interestingly, two different pathways of amyloplast B&D were observed in the two cultivars. In 'Hayward', significant increases in abundance of photosynthetic- and tetrapyrrole metabolism-related proteins were observed, but the opposite trend was observed in 'Hort16A'. In conclusion, analysis of the kfALP provides new insights into the potential mechanisms underlying amyloplast B&D with relevance to key fruit quality traits in contrasting kiwifruit cultivars.

Remodelling the inguinal adipose sensory system to switch on the furnace: Electroacupuncture stimulation induces brown adipose thermogenesis

Brown and white adipose tissue mediate thermogenesis through the thermogenetic centre of the brain, but safe methods for activating thermogensis and knowledge of the associated molecular mechanisms are lacking. We investigated body surface electroacupuncture stimulation (ES) at ST25 (targeted at the abdomen) induction of brown adipose thermogenesis and the neural mechanism of this process. Inguinal white adipose tissue (iWAT) and interscapular brown adipose tissue (iBAT) were collected and the thermogenic protein expression levels were measured to evaluate iBAT thermogenesis capacity. The thermogenic centre activating region and sympathetic outflow were evaluated based on neural electrical activity and c-fos expression levels. iWAT sensory axon plasticity was analysed with whole-mount adipose tissue imaging. ES activated the sympathetic nerves in iBAT and the c-fos-positive cells induced sympathetic outflow activation to the iBAT from the medial preoptic area (MPA), the dorsomedial hypothalamus (DM) and the raphe pallidus nucleus (RPA). iWAT denervation mice exhibited decreased c-fos-positive cells in the DM and RPA, and lower recombinant uncoupling orotein 1 peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor, β3-adrenergic receptor, and tyrosine hydroxylase expression. Remodelling the iWAT sensory axons recovered the signal from the MPA to the RPA and induced iBAT thermogenesis. The sympathetic denervation attenuated sensory nerve density. ES induced sympathetic outflow from the thermogenetic centres to iBAT, which mediated thermogenesis. iWAT sensory axon remodelling induced the MPA-DM-RPA-iBAT thermogenesis pathway.

RAS-Mutated Cytologically Indeterminate Thyroid Nodules: Prevalence of Malignancy and Behavior Under Active Surveillance

Background: Genomic profiling is now available for risk stratification of cytologically indeterminate thyroid nodules (ITNs). Mutations in RAS genes (HRAS, NRAS, KRAS) are found in both benign and malignant thyroid nodules, although isolated RAS mutations are rarely associated with aggressive tumors. Because the long-term behavior of RAS-mutant ITNs is not well understood, most undergo immediate surgery. In this multicenter retrospective cohort study, we characterize tumor growth kinetics of RAS-mutant ITNs followed with active surveillance (AS) using serial ultrasound (US) scans and examine the histopathologic diagnoses of those surgically resected. Methods: US and histopathologic data were analyzed retrospectively from two cohorts: (1) RAS-mutant ITNs managed with AS at three institutions (2010-2023) and (2) RAS-mutant ITNs managed with immediate surgery at two institutions (2016-2020). AS cohort subjects had ≥3 months of follow-up and two or more US scans. Cumulative incidence of nodule growth was determined by the Kaplan-Meier method and growth by ≥72% change in tumor volume. Pathological diagnoses for the immediate surgery cohort were analyzed separately. Results: Sixty-two patients with 63 RAS-mutated ITNs under AS had a median diameter of 1.7 cm (interquartile range [IQR] 1.2-2.6) at time of diagnosis. During a median AS period of 23 months (IQR 9.5-53.5 months), growth was observed in 12 of 63 nodules (19.0%), with a cumulative incidence of 1.9% (1 year), 23.0% (3 years), and 28.0% (5 years). Most nodules (81.0%) demonstrated stability. Surgery was ultimately performed in 6 nodules, of which 1 (16.7%) was malignant. In the cohort of 209 RAS-mutant ITNs triaged to immediate surgery, 33% were malignant (23.9% American Thyroid Association [ATA] low-risk cancers, 7.2% ATA intermediate-risk, and 1.9% ATA high-risk. During a median follow-up of 6.9 (IQR 4.4-7.1) years, there were no disease-specific deaths in these patients. Conclusions: We describe the behavior of RAS-mutant ITNs under AS and find that most demonstrate stability over time. Of the resected RAS-mutant nodules, most were benign; of the cancers, most were ATA low-risk. Immediate surgical resection of all RAS-mutant ITNs appears to be a low-value practice. Further research is needed to help define cases most appropriate for AS or immediate surgery.

Potential relation between starch granule-associated proteins and retrogradation properties of buckwheat starch

To elucidate the effect of starch granule-associated proteins (SGAPs) on retrogradation properties of buckwheat starch, the retrogradation properties of Tartary buckwheat starch (TBS) and common buckwheat starch (CBS) before and after removal of SGAPs were systematically investigated, with wheat starch (WS) as reference. A significant decrease in gel strength of starches and density of starch aggregates were observed after removing SGAPs. The results were in line with the changes in retrogradation enthalpy of starches and short-range ordered structure of starch aggregates. After removing SGAPs, the retrogradation enthalpy of TBS decreased from 4.16 J/g to 3.74 J/g, CBS decreased from 4.05 J/g to 3.35 J/g and WS decreased from 3.27 J/g to 2.81 J/g, respectively. Taken together the results of LF-NMR, FTIR and rheological analysis, it can be concluded that SGAPs could promote the hydrogen bond interactions between starch molecules by competitively binding with water molecules, enhancing the rearrangement of starch molecules and forming a more ordered structure. Overall, the study suggested that the presence of SGAPs could enhanced the interaction between starch molecules chains, thus accelerated the retrogradation process. The research results provide more information about SGAPs in buckwheat starch and support further study for manipulation of starch properties.

Effects of inhaled fine particulate matter on the lung injury as well as gut microbiota in broilers

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) has been widely regarded as an important environmental risk factor that has widely influenced health of both animals and humans. Lung injury is the main cause of PM2.5 affecting respiratory tract health. Gut microbiota participates in the development of lung injury in many pathological processes. However, there is still unknown the specific effects of PM2.5 on the gut-lung axis in broilers. Thus, we conducted a broiler model based on 3-wk-old male Arbor Acres broiler to explore the underlying mechanism. Our results showed that PM2.5 exposure triggered TLR4 signaling pathway and induced the increase of IL-6, IFN-γ, TNF-α expression as well as the decrease of IL-10 expression in the lung. Inhaled PM2.5 exposure significantly altered the gut microbiota diversity and community. Specifically, PM2.5 exposure decreased α diversity and altered β diversity of gut microbiota, and reduced the abundance of DTU089, Oscillospirales, Staphylococcus, and increased the Escherichia-Shigella abundance, leading to the increase of gut-derived lipopolysaccharides (LPS). Moreover, PM2.5 significantly disrupted the intestinal epithelial barrier by reducing the expression of muc2 and claudin-1 to increase intestinal permeability, which possibly facilitated the LPS translocation into the blood. Spearman analysis revealed that gut microbiota dysbiosis was positively related to TLR4, TNF-α, and IFN-γ expression in the lung. In summary, our results showed that PM2.5 exposure induced lung injury by causing inflammation and triggering TLR4 signaling pathway, and also induced gut microbiota dysbiosis resulting in the overproduction of gut-derived LPS. And gut microbiota dysbiosis may be associated with lung injury. The above results provide basis data to comprehend the potential role of gut microbiota dysbiosis in the lung injury as well as providing a new regulatory target for alleviating lung injury associated with environmental pollutants.

Low-dose polystyrene microplastics exposure impairs fertility in male mice with high-fat diet-induced obesity by affecting prostate function

The harmful effects of microplastics (MPs) on male fertility are receiving more and more attention. However, the impact of low-dose MPs exposure on the reproductive function of male mice is still unclear. In this study, we exposed male mice to low-dose MPs (25-30 μg/kg body weight/day) or low-dose MPs combined with high-fat diet (HFD) feeding. Our results showed that low-dose MPs exposure or HFD feeding significantly reduced sperm quality and the number of offspring born, while low-dose MPs exposure combined with HFD feeding further enhanced the above effects. The combination of low-dose MPs exposure and HFD feeding resulted in a notable elevation of inflammatory level within the prostate of mice and induced apoptosis of prostate epithelium and a decrease in nutrients (zinc, citrate) in seminal plasma fluid. Our findings in this study could provide valuable clues for better understanding the influence of low-dose MPs exposure on the reproductive system under metabolic disorders and facilitate the development of the prevention of reproductive toxicity caused by MPs exposure.

Kinome-Wide Synthetic Lethal Screen Identifies PANK4 as a Modulator of Temozolomide Resistance in Glioblastoma

Temozolomide (TMZ) represents the cornerstone of therapy for glioblastoma (GBM). However, acquisition of resistance limits its therapeutic potential. The human kinome is an undisputable source of druggable targets, still, current knowledge remains confined to a limited fraction of it, with a multitude of under-investigated proteins yet to be characterized. Here, following a kinome-wide RNAi screen, pantothenate kinase 4 (PANK4) isuncovered as a modulator of TMZ resistance in GBM. Validation of PANK4 across various TMZ-resistant GBM cell models, patient-derived GBM cell lines, tissue samples, as well as in vivo studies, corroborates the potential translational significance of these findings. Moreover, PANK4 expression is induced during TMZ treatment, and its expression is associated with a worse clinical outcome. Furthermore, a Tandem Mass Tag (TMT)-based quantitative proteomic approach, reveals that PANK4 abrogation leads to a significant downregulation of a host of proteins with central roles in cellular detoxification and cellular response to oxidative stress. More specifically, as cells undergo genotoxic stress during TMZ exposure, PANK4 depletion represents a crucial event that can lead to accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and subsequent cell death. Collectively, a previously unreported role for PANK4 in mediating therapeutic resistance to TMZ in GBM is unveiled.

Folding during sheeting improved qualities of dried noodles through gluten network proteins

The texture properties after cooking for 12 min were selected to optimize the sheeting parameters, and the results were verified using the comprehensive quality of dried noodles. The distribution of water, characteristics of gluten protein, and interaction between gluten network and starch were analyzed to clarify the mechanism of the quality of dried noodles. Results showed that the optimal folding angle was 45°, under this condition, the largest anti-extension displacement perpendicular to the rolling direction and the smallest cooking loss were obtained. The hardness and smoothness of cooked noodles increased by about 14% to 17%. Further, the transverse relaxation time of strongly bound water significantly decreased, while the relative content and binding strength increased. The hydrogen bonds and α-helix contents increased by about 68.8% and 53.1%, respectively. Folding and sheeting enhanced the combination of starch granules and gluten network causing, decreased in the average length and porosity of the gluten network. It is depicted from the results that the method of optimizing the sheeting process based on the texture of dried noodles cooked for 12 min was feasible. And the 45° folding and sheeting could help to improve the quality of dried noodles.

Peripheral blood syndecan-1 levels after mechanical thrombectomy can predict the clinical prognosis of patients with acute ischemic stroke

BACKGROUND

Previously, we revealed noticeable dynamic fluctuations in syndecan-1 levels in the peripheral blood of post-stroke patients. We further investigated the clinical prognostic value of syndecan-1 as a biomarker of glycoprotein damage in patients with acute ischaemic stroke (AIS).

METHODS

We examined 105 patients with acute large vessel occlusion in the anterior circulation, all of whom underwent mechanical thrombectomy (MT). Peripheral blood syndecan-1 levels were measured 1 day after MT, and patients were categorised into favourable and unfavourable prognostic groups based on the 90-day modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score. Additionally, we compared the clinical outcomes between groups with high and low syndecan-1 concentrations.

RESULTS

The findings revealed a significantly lower syndecan-1 level in the group with an unfavourable prognosis compared to those with a favourable prognosis (p < 0.01). In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, lower syndecan-1 levels were identified as a predictor of unfavourable prognosis (odds ratio (OR) = 0.965, p = 0.001). Patients displaying low syndecan-1 expression in the peripheral blood (< 29.51 ng/mL) experienced a > twofold increase in the rates of unfavourable prognosis and mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates that syndecan-1, as an emerging, easily detectable stroke biomarker, can predict the clinical outcomes of patients with AIS. After MT, low levels of syndecan-1 in the peripheral blood on the first day emerged as an independent risk factor for an unfavourable prognosis, suggesting that lower syndecan-1 levels might signify worse clinical presentation and outcomes in stroke patients undergoing this procedure.

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

BACKGROUND

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

OBJECTIVE

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

O-GlcNAcylation regulates long-chain fatty acid metabolism by inhibiting ACOX1 ubiquitination-dependent degradation

BACKGROUND

Cold as a common environmental stress, causes increased heat production, accelerated metabolism and even affects its production performance. How to improve the adaptability of the animal organism to cold has been an urgent problem. As a key hub of lipid metabolism, the liver can regulate lipid metabolism to maintain energy balance, and O-GlcNAcylation is a kind of important PTMs, which participates in a variety of signaling and mechanism regulation, and at the same time, is very sensitive to changes in stress and nutritional levels, and is the body's "stress receptors" and "nutrient receptors". Therefore, the aim of this experiment was to investigate the effect of cold-induced O-GlcNAcylation on hepatic lipid metabolism, and to explore the potential connection between O-GlcNAcylation and hepatic lipid metabolism.

METHODS

To investigate the loss of O-linked N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) transferase (OGT) and the precise impacts of additional cold-induced circumstances on liver mass, shape, and metabolic profile, C57 mice were used as an animal model. Using the protein interactions approach, the mechanism of O-GlcNAcylation, as well as the degradation pathway of acyl-Coenzyme A oxidase 1 (ACOX1), were clarified. Additional in vitro analyses of oleic acid (OA) and OGT inhibitor tetraoxan (Alloxan) (Sigma, 2244-11-3) on lipid breakdown in AML-12 cells.

RESULTS

In C57BL/6 mice, deletion of O-GlcNAcylation disrupted lipid metabolism, caused hepatic edema and fibrosis, and altered mitochondrial apoptosis. This group of modifications was made worse by cold induction. The accumulation of medium- and long-chain fatty acids is a hallmark of lipolysis, which is accelerated by the deletion of O-GlcNAcylation, whereas lipid synthesis is slowed down. The association between ACOX1 and OGT at the K48 gene precludes ubiquitinated degradation.

Papillary thyroid carcinoma tall cell subtype (PTC-TC) and high-grade differentiated thyroid carcinoma tall cell phenotype (HGDTC-TC) have different clinical behaviour: a retrospective study of 1456 patients

AIMS

Papillary thyroid carcinoma, tall cell subtype (PTC-TC) is a potentially aggressive histotype. The latest World Health Organisation (WHO) classification introduced a novel class of tumours; namely, high-grade differentiated thyroid carcinoma (HGDTC), characterised by elevated mitotic count and/or necrosis, which can exhibit a tall cell phenotype (HGDTC-TC).

METHODS AND RESULTS

We analysed the clinical outcomes in a large retrospective cohort of 1456 consecutive thyroid carcinomas with a tall cell phenotype, including PTC-TC and HGDTC-TC. HGDTC-TC is uncommon, accounting for 5.3% (77 of 1379) of carcinomas with tall cell morphology. HGDTC-TC was associated with significantly older age, larger tumour size, angioinvasion, gross extrathyroidal extension, higher AJCC pT stage, positive resection margin and nodal metastasis (P < 0.05). Compared with PTC-TC, HGDTC was associated with a significantly decreased DSS, LRDFS and distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS; P < 0.001). The 10-year DSS was 72 and 99%, the 10-year LRDFS was 61 and 92% and the 10-year DMFS was 53 and 97%, respectively, for HGDTC-TC and PTC-TC. On multivariate analysis, the classification (HGDTC-TC versus PTC-TC) was an independent adverse prognostic factor for DSS, LRDF, and DMFS when adjusted for sex, age, angioinvasion, margin status, AJCC pT and pN stage.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with PTC-TC, HGDTC-TC is associated with adverse clinicopathological features, a higher frequency of TERT promoter mutations (59% in HGDTC-TC versus 34% in PTC-TC) and incurs a significantly worse prognosis. HGDTC-TC is an independent prognostic factor for carcinoma with tall cell morphology. This validates the concept of HGDTC and the importance of tumour necrosis and high mitotic count for accurate diagnosis and prognosis of differentiated thyroid carcinomas.

Ubiquitinome Analysis Uncovers Alterations in Synaptic Proteins and Glucose Metabolism Enzymes in the Hippocampi of Adolescent Mice Following Cold Exposure

Cold exposure exerts negative effects on hippocampal nerve development in adolescent mice, but the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Given that ubiquitination is essential for neurodevelopmental processes, we attempted to investigate the effects of cold exposure on the hippocampus from the perspective of ubiquitination. By conducting a ubiquitinome analysis, we found that cold exposure caused changes in the ubiquitination levels of a variety of synaptic-associated proteins. We validated changes in postsynaptic density-95 (PSD-95) ubiquitination levels by immunoprecipitation, revealing reductions in both the K48 and K63 polyubiquitination levels of PSD-95. Golgi staining further demonstrated that cold exposure decreased the dendritic-spine density in the CA1 and CA3 regions of the hippocampus. Additionally, bioinformatics analysis revealed that differentially ubiquitinated proteins were enriched in the glycolytic, hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1), and 5'-monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathways. Protein expression analysis confirmed that cold exposure activated the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)/HIF-1α pathway. We also observed suppression of pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) protein levels and the pyruvate kinase (PK) activity induced by cold exposure. Regarding oxidative phosphorylation, a dramatic decrease in mitochondrial respiratory-complex I activity was observed, along with reduced gene expression of the key subunits NADH: ubiquinone oxidoreductase core subunit V1 (Ndufv1) and Ndufv2. In summary, cold exposure negatively affects hippocampal neurodevelopment and causes abnormalities in energy homeostasis within the hippocampus.

Revealing the Charge Storage Mechanism in Porous Carbon to Achieve Efficient K Ion Storage

Constructing a porous structure is considered an appealing strategy to improve the electrochemical properties of carbon anodes for potassium-ion batteries (PIBs). Nevertheless, the correlation between electrochemical K-storage performance and pore structure has not been well elucidated, which hinders the development of high-performance carbon anodes. Herein, various porous carbons are synthesized with porosity structures ranging from micropores to micro/mesopores and mesopores, and systematic investigations are conducted to establish a relationship between pore characteristics and K-storage performance. It is found that micropores fail to afford accessible active sites for K ion storage, whereas mesopores can provide abundant surface adsorption sites, and the enlarged interlayer spacing facilitates the intercalation process, thus resulting in significantly improved K-storage performances. Consequently, PCa electrode with a prominent mesoporous structure achieves the highest reversible capacity of 421.7 mAh g-1 and an excellent rate capability of 191.8 mAh g-1 at 5 C. Furthermore, the assembled potassium-ion hybrid capacitor realizes an impressive energy density of 151.7 Wh kg-1 at a power density of 398 W kg-1. The proposed work not only deepens the understanding of potassium storage in carbon materials with distinctive porosities but also paves a path toward developing high-performance anodes for PIBs with customized energy storage capabilities.

Rheological Performance Analysis of Different Preventive Maintenance Materials in Porous High-Viscosity Asphalt Pavements

Porous asphalt pavements are widely used in rainy and wet areas for their skid resistance, noise reduction, runoff minimization and environmental sustainability. Long-term moisture vapor erosion and the destabilization of large pore structures can easily result in pavement problems such as fragmentation, spalling, cracking, and excessive permanent deformation. To this end, four different preventive maintenance materials, including the rejuvenation (RJ), cohesion reinforcement (CEM), polymerization reaction, and emulsified asphalt (EA) types, were selected in this paper to improve the high-viscosity porous asphalt pavement. The effects of the different preventive maintenance materials on the temperature sensitivity, rheological properties and fatigue performance of high-viscosity modified asphalt were evaluated through temperature sweep, frequency sweep, multi-stress creep recovery (MSCR), linear amplitude sweep (LAS), and bending beam rheometer (BBR) tests. The results showed that the four preventive maintenance materials exhibit different enhancement mechanisms and effects. RJ improves the fatigue properties, deformation resistance and low-temperature cracking resistance of aged asphalt by adding elastomeric components; CEM materials are more conducive to increasing the low-temperature crack resistance of aged asphalt; while GL1 and EA improve the viscoelastic behavior of aged asphalt, but the effect of the dosing ratio needs to be considered.

Bifidobacterium longum suppresses colorectal cancer through the modulation of intestinal microbes and immune function

Colorectal cancer (CRC), one of the most common malignancies in the world, urgently requires more treatment strategies. Although there has been much research on probiotics, limited research has been done in treating cancer. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of Bifidobacterium longum (B. longum) in the prevention and treatment of CRC. Through Cell Counting Kit-8 and Colony Formation Assays, 8 h and a B. longum count of 1 × 108 CFU/ml were chosen as the best cocultivation conditions with CRC cells. The role of B. longum in inhibiting the progression of CRC cells was verified by a series of functional and immunofluorescence assays. For instance, in vivo assays have verified that B. longum could alleviate CRC progression. In addition, according to the results of in vivo assays and clinical statistical analysis, B. longum could reduce diarrhea symptoms. Mechanistically, by 16S and RNA sequencing, it was found that B. longum could affect the development of CRC by regulating the composition of gut microbes and enhancing immune function. The B. longum might inhibit the occurrence and development of CRC and relieve diarrhea symptoms by regulating intestinal microbes and immune function.

Efficacy and safety analysis of AcoStream thrombus aspiration device in the treatment of acute superior mesenteric artery embolism

OBJECTIVE

Acute superior mesenteric artery embolism is a life-threatening disease caused by the abrupt interruption of mesenteric blood circulation, and the prognosis is very poor. Several studies have confirmed the efficacy and safety of percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy in acute superior mesenteric artery embolism, however, there are currently no literature reports on the latest percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy device-AcoStream™. In the present report, we summarize a series of cases and share our surgical experiences.

METHODS

The clinical data of 10 patients (six men and four women, mean age 77.6 ± 7.4 years) with acute superior mesenteric artery embolism treated by AcoStream™ in our center from December 2022 to December 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Based on the literature, we summarized the diagnosis, therapy, and surgical experience of acute superior mesenteric artery embolism.

RESULTS

Percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy was performed for all the patients. The success rate of surgery reached 100% and no perioperative complications occurred. Abdominal pain was significantly relieved and the abdominal signs gradually disappeared in eight patients, while the other two patients still complained of abdominal pain during hospitalization, and eventually, they underwent resection of necrotic bowel. All the patients' symptoms were significantly relieved and they were smoothly discharged from the hospital.

CONCLUSIONS

As shown in the present study, percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy using AcoStream™ is minimally invasive, safe, and efficient in the initial stage of acute superior mesenteric artery embolism. We believe that percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy can be a promising alternative in selected cases.

Novel estrogen receptor β/histone deacetylase dual-targeted near-infrared fluorescent probes as theranostic agents for imaging and treatment of prostate cancer

Estrogen receptor (ER) β and histone deacetylases (HDACs), when overexpressed, are associated closely with the occurrence and development of prostate cancer and are, therefore, considered important targets and biomarkers used in the clinical treatment of prostate cancer. The present study involved the design and synthesis of the first ERβ and HDAC dual-target near-infrared fluorescent probe with both imaging capacity and antitumor activity for prostate cancer. Both P1 and P2 probes exhibited excellent ERβ selectivity, with P1 being almost exclusively selective for ERβ compared to ERα. In addition, P1 exhibited good optical properties, such as strong near-infrared emission, large Stokes shift, and better anti-interference ability, along with excellent imaging ability for living cells. P1 also exhibited potent inhibitory activity against HDAC6 and DU-145 cells, with IC50 values of 52 nM and 0.96 μM, respectively. Further, P1 was applied successfully for the in vivo imaging of prostate cancer in a mouse model, and significant in vivo antitumor efficacy was achieved. The developed dual-target NIR fluorescent probe is expected to serve as an effective tool in the research on prostate cancer, leading to novel insights for the theranostic study of diseases related to ERβ and HDACs.

Wavelength dependency and photosensitizer effects in UV-LED photodegradation of iohexol

Iodinated X-ray contrast media (ICM) are ubiquitously present in water sources and challenging to eliminate using conventional processes, posing a significant risk to aquatic ecosystems. Ultraviolet light-emitting diodes (UV-LED) emerge as a promising technology for transforming micropollutants in water, boasting advantages such as diverse wavelengths, elimination of chemical additives, and no induction of microorganisms' resistance to disinfectants. The research reveals that iohexol (IOX) degradation escalates as UV wavelength decreases, attributed to enhanced photon utilization efficiency. Pseudo-first-order rate constants (kobs) were determined as 3.70, 2.60, 1.31 and 0.65 cm2 J-1 at UV-LED wavelengths of 255, 265, 275 and 285 nm, respectively. The optical properties of dissolved organic matter (DOM) and anions undeniably influence the UV-LED photolysis process through photon competition and the generation of reactive substances. The influence of Cl- on IOX degradation was insignificant at UV-LED 255, but it promoted IOX degradation at 265, 275 and 285 nm. IOX degradation was accelerated by ClO2-, NO3-and HA due to the formation of various reactive species. In the presence of NO3-, the kobs of IOX followed the order: 265 > 255 > 275 > 285 nm. Photosensitizers altered the spectral dependence of IOX, and the intermediate photoactivity products were detected using electron spin resonance. The transformation pathways of IOX were determined through density functional theory calculations and experiments. Disinfection by-products (DBPs) yields of IOX during UV-LED irradiation decreased as the wavelength increased: 255 > 265 > 275 > 285 nm. The cytotoxicity index value decreased as the UV-LED wavelength increased from 255 to 285 nm. These findings are crucial for selecting the most efficient wavelength for UV-LED degradation of ICM and will benefit future water purification design.

Robot-assisted single-port retroperitoneal partial nephrectomy with a novel purpose-built single-port robotic system with deformable surgical instruments

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the safety and feasibility of using a novel purpose-built single-port robotic system (the SHURUI Robotic Surgical System) with deformable surgical instruments to perform retroperitoneal single-port partial nephrectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective study was conducted to recruit patients with a single renal tumor no more than 4 cm. Robot-assisted single-port partial nephrectomy was performed by using the novel purpose-built single-port robotic system with deformable surgical instruments. Patients' demographics, tumor characteristics, and perioperative parameters were recorded and analyzed.

RESULTS

Sixteen patients were recruited to the study. The median tumor size was 2.0 cm (IQR: 1.2-2.4 cm). The median R.E.N.A.L score was 6 (IQR: 4-4.5). In 3 cases, pure single-port surgery was carried out, and all the assistance was through the robotic port. Median docking time was 15.5 min (IQR: 14.25-22.25 min). Median operating time was 148.5 min (IQR: 178-238.5 min). Median console time was 107 min (IQR: 92.75-149.75 min). Median warm ischemic time was 26.5 min (IQR: 24.5-30 min). Median blood loss was 17.5 ml (IQR: 10-50 ml).

CONCLUSIONS

Retroperitoneal partial nephrectomy can be safely performed with this novel purpose-built single-port robotic system (SHURUI) with deformable surgical instruments. Further studies are needed to fully evaluate the role of this new platform.

Use of the Serum Level of Cholinesterase as a Prognostic Marker of Nonfatal Clinical Outcomes in Patients Hospitalized with Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Introduction

Acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) contributes to a poor prognosis. Reliable biomarkers to predict adverse outcomes during hospitalization are important.

Aim

To investigate the relationship between the serum cholinesterase (ChE) level and adverse clinical outcomes, including hypoxemia severity, hypercapnia, duration of hospital stay (DoHS), and noninvasive ventilation (NIV) requirement, in patients with AECOPD.

Methods

Patients hospitalized with AECOPD in the Wuhu Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine between January 2017 and December 2021 were included.

Results

A total of 429 patients were enrolled. The serum ChE level was significantly lower in patients with hypercapnia, who required NIV during hospitalization and who had a DoHS of >10 days, with an oxygenation index < 300. The ChE level was correlated negatively with the C-reactive protein level and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and correlated positively with the serum albumin level. Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that a serum ChE level of ≤4116 U/L (OR = 2.857, 95% CI = 1.46-5.58, p = 0.002) was associated significantly with NIV requirement.

Conclusions

The serum ChE level was correlated significantly with complicating severe hypoxemia, hypercapnia, prolonged DoHS, and the need for NIV in patients hospitalized with AECOPD. The serum ChE level is a clinically important risk-stratification biomarker in patients hospitalized with AECOPD.

Immune metabolic mechanisms of acupuncture in improving glycolipid metabolic disorders explored through pancreatic adipose tissue

Pancreatic adipose tissue serves as a crucial structural basis for the development of glycolipid metabolic disorders. Understanding the mechanisms underlying pancreatic adipose tissue infiltration and regulatory strategies is essential for early intervention in glycolipid metabolic disorders. Pancreatic adipose tissue functions as a significant medium linking systemic immune metabolism, while the pancreatic vascular system emerges as a novel target for sensing pancreatic immune responses and maintaining the body's energy homeostasis, collectively participating in the development of glycolipid metabolic disorders. Acupuncture possesses potential effects in modulating the interaction between resident macrophages and adipocytes in the pancreas, leading to the reversible reduction of excessive pancreatic adipose accumulation, with its action being vascular-dependent.

Manganese disrupts the maturation and degradation of axonal autophagosome leading to hippocampal synaptic toxicity in mice via the activation of LRRK2 on phosphorylation of Rab10

Manganese (Mn) overexposure induces hippocampal synaptotoxicity by the accumulation of dysfunctional synaptic vesicles (SVs). Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) kinase activity is involved in regulating axonal transport (autophagosomal maturation) and lysosomal function. Nevertheless, it remains unclear whether Mn-induced synaptotoxicity is associated with the LRRK2-mediated disruption of autophagosomal maturation in axonal transport and the impairment of lysosomes in hippocampal neurons. Here, we established models of manganism in C57BL/6 mice and hippocampal neuronal HT22 cells to verify the role of LRRK2-mediated Rab10 phosphorylation in the Mn-induced dysfunction of autophagy- lysosomal fusion. Our results proved that Mn-induced the disorder of axonal transport and that lysosome impairments were associated with the increased recruitment of phospho-Rab10 at the axon and lysosomes. Next, we established Lrrk2-KD and LRRK2 kinase- specific inhibitor (GNE-0877, GNE) pre-treated HT22 cells to inhibit Lrrk2 gene expression and kinase activity, respectively. In Mn-treated Lrrk2-KD or GNE-pretreated normal neurons, our results indicated that lysosomal pH and integrity and autophagic flow were restored, indicating by decreased levels of phospho-Rab10 on lysosomes and JNK-interacting proteins (JIP4). In addition, GNE pretreatment could provide protection against Mn-induced synaptotoxicity in vivo, which was evidenced by the partial recovery in synaptic plasticity and synaptic damage. Thus, the Mn-induced abnormal activation of LRRK2 affected lysosomes and the recruitment of phospho-Rab10 by JIP4, which disrupted autophagosomal maturation in proximal axons and resulted in the hippocampal synaptic toxicity of mice.

Global age-sex-specific mortality, life expectancy, and population estimates in 204 countries and territories and 811 subnational locations, 1950-2021, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic: a comprehensive demographic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021

BACKGROUND

Estimates of demographic metrics are crucial to assess levels and trends of population health outcomes. The profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on populations worldwide has underscored the need for timely estimates to understand this unprecedented event within the context of long-term population health trends. The Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) 2021 provides new demographic estimates for 204 countries and territories and 811 additional subnational locations from 1950 to 2021, with a particular emphasis on changes in mortality and life expectancy that occurred during the 2020-21 COVID-19 pandemic period.

METHODS

22 223 data sources from vital registration, sample registration, surveys, censuses, and other sources were used to estimate mortality, with a subset of these sources used exclusively to estimate excess mortality due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 2026 data sources were used for population estimation. Additional sources were used to estimate migration; the effects of the HIV epidemic; and demographic discontinuities due to conflicts, famines, natural disasters, and pandemics, which are used as inputs for estimating mortality and population. Spatiotemporal Gaussian process regression (ST-GPR) was used to generate under-5 mortality rates, which synthesised 30 763 location-years of vital registration and sample registration data, 1365 surveys and censuses, and 80 other sources. ST-GPR was also used to estimate adult mortality (between ages 15 and 59 years) based on information from 31 642 location-years of vital registration and sample registration data, 355 surveys and censuses, and 24 other sources. Estimates of child and adult mortality rates were then used to generate life tables with a relational model life table system. For countries with large HIV epidemics, life tables were adjusted using independent estimates of HIV-specific mortality generated via an epidemiological analysis of HIV prevalence surveys, antenatal clinic serosurveillance, and other data sources. Excess mortality due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021 was determined by subtracting observed all-cause mortality (adjusted for late registration and mortality anomalies) from the mortality expected in the absence of the pandemic. Expected mortality was calculated based on historical trends using an ensemble of models. In location-years where all-cause mortality data were unavailable, we estimated excess mortality rates using a regression model with covariates pertaining to the pandemic. Population size was computed using a Bayesian hierarchical cohort component model. Life expectancy was calculated using age-specific mortality rates and standard demographic methods. Uncertainty intervals (UIs) were calculated for every metric using the 25th and 975th ordered values from a 1000-draw posterior distribution.

FINDINGS

Global all-cause mortality followed two distinct patterns over the study period: age-standardised mortality rates declined between 1950 and 2019 (a 62·8% [95% UI 60·5-65·1] decline), and increased during the COVID-19 pandemic period (2020-21; 5·1% [0·9-9·6] increase). In contrast with the overall reverse in mortality trends during the pandemic period, child mortality continued to decline, with 4·66 million (3·98-5·50) global deaths in children younger than 5 years in 2021 compared with 5·21 million (4·50-6·01) in 2019. An estimated 131 million (126-137) people died globally from all causes in 2020 and 2021 combined, of which 15·9 million (14·7-17·2) were due to the COVID-19 pandemic (measured by excess mortality, which includes deaths directly due to SARS-CoV-2 infection and those indirectly due to other social, economic, or behavioural changes associated with the pandemic). Excess mortality rates exceeded 150 deaths per 100 000 population during at least one year of the pandemic in 80 countries and territories, whereas 20 nations had a negative excess mortality rate in 2020 or 2021, indicating that all-cause mortality in these countries was lower during the pandemic than expected based on historical trends. Between 1950 and 2021, global life expectancy at birth increased by 22·7 years (20·8-24·8), from 49·0 years (46·7-51·3) to 71·7 years (70·9-72·5). Global life expectancy at birth declined by 1·6 years (1·0-2·2) between 2019 and 2021, reversing historical trends. An increase in life expectancy was only observed in 32 (15·7%) of 204 countries and territories between 2019 and 2021. The global population reached 7·89 billion (7·67-8·13) people in 2021, by which time 56 of 204 countries and territories had peaked and subsequently populations have declined. The largest proportion of population growth between 2020 and 2021 was in sub-Saharan Africa (39·5% [28·4-52·7]) and south Asia (26·3% [9·0-44·7]). From 2000 to 2021, the ratio of the population aged 65 years and older to the population aged younger than 15 years increased in 188 (92·2%) of 204 nations.

INTERPRETATION

Global adult mortality rates markedly increased during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021, reversing past decreasing trends, while child mortality rates continued to decline, albeit more slowly than in earlier years. Although COVID-19 had a substantial impact on many demographic indicators during the first 2 years of the pandemic, overall global health progress over the 72 years evaluated has been profound, with considerable improvements in mortality and life expectancy. Additionally, we observed a deceleration of global population growth since 2017, despite steady or increasing growth in lower-income countries, combined with a continued global shift of population age structures towards older ages. These demographic changes will likely present future challenges to health systems, economies, and societies. The comprehensive demographic estimates reported here will enable researchers, policy makers, health practitioners, and other key stakeholders to better understand and address the profound changes that have occurred in the global health landscape following the first 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic, and longer-term trends beyond the pandemic.

FUNDING

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Precursor exhausted CD8+T cells in colorectal cancer tissues associated with patient's survival and immunotherapy responsiveness

Exhausted CD8+T cells represent a distinct cellular lineage that emerges during both chronic infections and cancers. Recent studies have shown that persistent antigen exposure can drive the differentiation of precursor exhausted CD8+T cells, termed Tpex cells, which are characterized as TCF-1+PD-1+CD8+T cells. Elevated Tpex cell frequencies in the tumor microenvironment (TME) are associated with improved overall survival (OS) in cancer patients and heightened responsiveness to anti-PD-1 therapy. In our present study, we utilized multi-color immunohistochemistry (mIHC) to determine the localization and clinical implications of tumor-infiltrating Tpex cells within the TME of human colorectal cancer (CRC) tissues. We also conducted a multi-omics integrative analysis using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data derived from both the murine MC38 tumor model and human CRC tissues. This analysis helped delineate the transcriptional and functional attributes of Tpex cells within the CRC TME. Furthermore, we employed spatial transcriptome sequencing data from CRC patients to investigate the interactions between Tpex cells and other immune cell subsets within the TME. In conclusion, our study not only established a method for Tpex cell detection using mIHC technology but also confirmed that assessing Tpex cells within the CRC TME could be indicative of patients' survival. We further uncovered the transcriptional and functional characteristics of Tpex cells in the TME and ascertained their pivotal role in the efficacy of immunotherapy against CRC.

An imageology-based feasibility study of plating posterolateral tibial plateau fractures via an anterolateral trans-fibular-head approach

BACKGROUND

There are many difficulties in the reduction and fixation of the tibial plateau fractures involving posterolateral quadrant using general plates via traditional approaches. By imaging the area above the fibulae capitulum, this study was performed to investigate the feasibility of the trans-fibular-head approach and to design an ideal anatomical plate.

METHODS

MRI and CT scans of the knee joint were collected from 205 healthy volunteers (103 males, 102 females). Gender and height were used to divide the volunteers into groups separately: (1) A1 group and A2 group according to gender, (2) B1 group and B2 group according to height. Based on the images, several parameters were defined and measured to describe the space above the head of the fibula. In addition, differences in these parameters between genders and height were compared.

RESULTS

The narrowest distance in the bony region was (10.96 ± 1.39) mm, (5.41 ± 0.97 mm) in the bone-ligament region. The narrowest distance of bony region in the A1 group was more than that in the A2 group (11.21 ± 1.62 mm, 10.85 ± 1.47 mm, p = 0.029). The narrowest distance of the bony region was (10.21 ± 1.42) mm and (11.65 ± 1.39) mm in the B1 group and B2 group, respectively (p = 0.002). The narrowest distance of the bone-ligament region was (5.39 ± 0.78) mm and (5.22 ± 1.21) mm in the A1 group and A2 group, respectively. No statistically significant differences were observed between the A1 group and the A2 group in terms of the narrowest distance of the bone-ligament region. In the B1 group, the narrowest distance of the bone-ligament region (5.18 ± 0.71 mm) was not significantly less than that (5.31 ± 0.91 mm) in the B2 group.

CONCLUSION

The space above the fibular capitellum was ample enough to place the plate for treating tibial plateau fractures involving posterolateral quadrant. The divisions of the lateral tibial plateau by 3-dimensional CT and the parameters of each region were crucial for providing guidance for designing the anatomical plate for the trans-fibular-head approach.

Seeding Activity of Skin Misfolded Tau as a Biomarker for Tauopathies

Background

Tauopathies are a group of age-related neurodegenerative diseases characterized by the accumulation of pathologically phosphorylated tau protein in the brain, leading to prion-like propagation and aggregation. They include Alzheimer's disease (AD), progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), corticobasal degeneration (CBD), and Pick's disease (PiD). Currently, reliable diagnostic biomarkers that directly reflect the capability of propagation and spreading of misfolded tau aggregates in peripheral tissues and body fluids are lacking.

Methods

We utilized the seed-amplification assay (SAA) employing ultrasensitive real-time quaking-induced conversion (RT-QuIC) to assess the prion-like seeding activity of pathological tau in the skin of cadavers with neuropathologically confirmed tauopathies, including AD, PSP, CBD, and PiD, compared to normal controls.

Results

We found that the skin prion-SAA demonstrated a significantly higher sensitivity (75-80%) and specificity (95-100%) for detecting tauopathy, depending on the tau substrates used. Moreover, increased tau-seeding activity was also observed in biopsy skin samples from living AD and PSP patients examined. Analysis of the end products of skin-tau SAA confirmed that the increased seeding activity was accompanied by the formation of tau aggregates with different physicochemical properties related to two different tau substrates used.

Conclusions

Overall, our study provides proof-of-concept that the skin tau-SAA can differentiate tauopathies from normal controls, suggesting that the seeding activity of misfolded tau in the skin could serve as a diagnostic biomarker for tauopathies.

Blockade of BTLA alone or in combination with PD-1 restores the activation and proliferation of CD8+ T cells during in vitro infection with NCP BVDV

Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) infection can result in typical peripheral blood lymphopenia and immune dysfunction. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the onset of lymphopenia remains unclear. B and T lymphocyte attenuator (BTLA) is a novel immune checkpoint molecule that primarily inhibits activation and proliferation of T cells. Blockade of BTLA with antibodies can boost the proliferation and anti-viral immune functions of T cells. Nonetheless, the immunomodulatory effects of BTLA in CD8+ T cells during BVDV infection remain unknown. Therefore, BTLA expression was measured in bovine peripheral blood CD8+ T cells infected with BVDV in vitro. Furthermore, the effects of BTLA or PD-1 blockade on CD8+ T cell activation, proliferation, and anti-viral immunological activities were investigated, as well as expression of signaling molecules downstream of BTLA, both alone and in combination. The results demonstrated that BTLA and PD-1 mRNA and protein levels were considerably increased in CD8+ T cells infected with cytopathic and non-cytopathic (NCP) BVDV. Surprisingly, as compared to blockade of either BTLA or PD-1, blockade of both dramatically increased proliferation and expression of CD25 and p-EKR of CD8+ T cells infected with NCP BVDV. Furthermore, blockade of BTLA, but not PD-1, had no effect on BVDV replication or IFN-γ expression. These findings confirmed the immunomodulatory roles of BTLA during BVDV infection, as well as the synergistic role of BTLA and PD-1 in NCP BVDV infection, thereby providing new insights to promote activation and the anti-viral immunological activities of CD8+ T cells.

Using machine learning to trace the pollution sources of disinfection by-products precursors compared to receptor models

To increase the efficiency of managing backup water resources, it is critical to identify and allocate pollution sources. Source apportionment of dissolved organic matter (DOM) was investigated in our work. Parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC) and the Spearman correlation analysis were used for source identification. After that, a newly hybrid model applying the fuzzy c-means and support vector regression (FCM-SVR) was employed for source apportionment compared to receptor models. The results demonstrated that the FCM-SVR model exhibited excellent generalization, and only required standardization and normalization as pre-processing steps for dataset. According to the results, microbial sources played a key role (28.1 %) in the formation potential of disinfection byproducts (DBPFPs). Additionally, shipping marine sources exhibited a substantial contribution (21.2 %) to DBPFPs. The prediction accuracy of DBPFPs was matched or exceeded receptor models, and the R2 of DOC (0.884) was significantly high. Therefore, we recommend the FCM-SVR model combined with PARAFAC to trace the source of DBPFPs as its significant effectiveness in source identification, source apportionment, and prediction accuracy, possessing the potential for further applicability in tracking more organic compounds. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPLICATION: The disinfection byproducts precursors in water sources, which were thought to be hazardous materials in this study, are proved to be chlorinated into carcinogenic disinfection byproducts (DBPs) during drinking water treatment, However, the source apportionment methods of DBPs are not well developed compared to other inorganic matter, e.g., heavy metals and ammonia nitrogen. We proposed a new FCM-SVR model to trace the source of DBPs, which required easier pre-treatment and resulted a better source apportionment and prediction accuracy. As a result, it could provide a different prospect and useful management advices to trace the source of DBPs.

Nitrogen addition affected the root competition in Cunninghamia lanceolata-Phoebe chekiangensis mixed plantation

Little is known about below-ground competition in mixed-species plantations under increasing nitrogen (N) deposition. This study aims to determine the effects of N addition on root competition in coniferous and broad-leaved species mixed plantations. A pot experiment was conducted using the coniferous species Cunninghamia lanceolata and the broad-leaved species Phoebe chekiangensis planted in mixed plantations with different competition intensities under N addition (0 or 45 kg N ha-1 yr-1). Biomass allocation, root morphology, root growth level, and competitive ability were determined after five months of treatment. Our findings indicated that root interactions in mixed plantations did not influence biomass allocation in either C. lanceolata or P. chekiangensis but promoted growth in C. lanceolata when no N was added. However, N addition decreased biomass accumulation in both species in the mixed plantation and had a negative effect on the root growth of C. lanceolata due to intensified competition. Addition of N increased the relative importance of root predatory competition in P. chekiangensis, and increased the allelopathic competitive advantage in C. lanceolata. This suggests that N addition causes a shift in the root competitive strategy from tolerance to competition. Overall, these findings highlight the significant impact that the addition of N can have on plant interactions in mixed plantations. Our results provide implications for the mechanisms of root competition in response to increasing atmospheric N deposition in mixed plantations.

Interfacial Engineering and Coupling of MXene/Reduced Graphene Oxide/C3 N4 Aerogel with Optimized d-Band Center as a Free-Standing Sulfur Carrier for High-Performance Li-S Batteries

To overcome the shuttle effect and improve the energy density of Li-S batteries, developing free-standing sulfur carriers with high capture and catalytic effect towards polysulfides is an effective strategy. Herein, a MXene/reduced graphene oxide/C3 N4 aerogel (MG/C3 N4 ) with three-dimensional architecture prepared through low-temperature hydrothermal approach followed by thermal treatment is used as sulfur carrier for free-standing cathode of Li-S batteries. In the MG/C3 N4 , MXene and rGO construct a highly conductive framework, and the MXene nanosheets offer chemical capture and catalytic activity towards lithium polysulfides, in favor of good cycling stability. The introduction of g-C3 N4 further enhances the reactivity of C-Ti-N at the hetero-interface by engineering the electronic state of Ti atoms, leading to the optimized metal d-band for expediting the multistep conversion of sulfur electrochemistry. Therefore, the free-standing sulfur cathode with MG/C3 N4 carrier achieves excellent performance with a capacity of 1315.6 mAh g-1 at 0.2 C and a capacity retention of 97.5% after 100 cycles as well as superior rate capability with 1167.4 mAh g-1 at 2 C. Even at a high sulfur loading of 4.92 mg cm-2 , the cathode remains 940.3 mAh g-1 (4.62 mAh cm-2 ) after 200 cycles, indicating its promising potential for achieving high-performance Li-S batteries.

Endogenous Zinc-Ion-Triggered In Situ Gelation Enables Zn Capture to Reprogram Benign Hyperplastic Prostate Microenvironment and Shrink Prostate

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) as the leading cause of urination disorder is still a refractory disease, and there have no satisfied drugs or treatment protocols yet. With identifying excessive Zn2+ , inflammation, and oxidative stress as the etiology of aberrant hyperplasia, an injectable sodium alginate (SA) and glycyrrhizic acid (GA)-interconnected hydrogels (SAGA) featuring Zn2+ -triggered in situ gelation are developed to load lonidamine for reprogramming prostate microenvironment and treating BPH. Herein, SAGA hydrogels can crosslink with Zn2+ in BPH via coordination chelation and switch free Zn2+ to bound ones, consequently alleviating Zn2+ -arisen inflammation and glycolysis. Beyond capturing Zn2+ , GA with intrinsic immunoregulatory property can also alleviate local inflammation and scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS). Intriguingly, Zn2+ chelation-bridged interconnection in SAGA enhances its mechanical property and regulates the degradation rate to enable continuous lonidamine release, favoring hyperplastic acini apoptosis and further inhibiting glycolysis. These multiple actions cooperatively reprogram BPH microenvironment to alleviate characteristic symptoms of BPH and shrink prostate. RNA sequencing reveals that chemotaxis, glycolysis, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inflammation-related pathways associated with M1-like phenotype polarization are discerned as the action rationales of such endogenous Zn2+ -triggered in situ hydrogels, providing a candidate avenue to treat BPH.

FGFR1/2/3-rearranged carcinoma of the head and neck: expanded histological spectrum crossing path with high-risk HPV in the sinonasal tract

AIMS

Oncogenic FGFR1/2/3 rearrangements are found in various cancers. Reported cases in head and neck (HN) are mainly squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) with FGFR3::TACC3 fusions, a subset of which also harbour high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV). However, the knowledge of the clinicopathological spectrum of FGFR-rearranged head and neck carcinomas (FHNC) is limited.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A retrospective MSK-fusion clinical sequencing cohort 2016-23 was searched to identify malignant tumours in the HN region harbouring FGFR1/2/3 fusion. FHNC were characterised by histological examination, immunohistochemistry and molecular analysis. Electronic medical records were reviewed. Three FHNC were identified. Two cases (cases 1 and 2) involved sinonasal tract and were high-grade carcinomas with squamous, basaloid, glandular and/or ductal-myoepithelial features. Case 1 arose in a 79-year-old man and harboured FGFR2::KIF1A fusion. Case 2 arose in a 58-year-old man, appeared as HPV-related multiphenotypic sinonasal carcinoma (HMSC), and was positive for FGFR2::TACC2 fusion and concurrent high-risk HPV, non-type 16/18. Case 3 was FGFR3::TACC3 fusion-positive keratinising SCCs arising in the parotid of a 60-year-old man. All three cases presented at stage T4. Clinical follow-up was available in two cases; case 1 remained disease-free for 41 months post-treatment and case 3 died of disease 2 months after the diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

FHNC include a morphological spectrum of carcinomas with squamous features and may occur in different HN locations, such as parotid gland and the sinonasal tract. Sinonasal cases can harbour FGFR2 rearrangement with or without associated high-risk HPV. Timely recognition of FHNC could help select patients potentially amenable to targeted therapy with FGFR inhibitors. Further studies are needed (1) to determine if FGFR2 rearranged/HPV-positive sinonasal carcinomas are biologically distinct from HMSC, and (2) to elucidate the biological and clinical significance of FGFR2 rearrangement in the context of high-risk HPV.