Myeloid-derived suppressor cells from tumour-bearing mice induce the population expansion of CD19hiFcγRIIbhi regulatory B cells via PD-L1

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) increase in number and gain immunosuppressive functions in tumours and many other pathological conditions. MDSCs are characterized by their strong T-cell immunosuppressive capacity. The effects that MDSCs may have on B cells, especially within the tumour microenvironment, are less well understood. Here, we report that either monocytic MDSCs or polymorphonuclear MDSCs can promote increases in interleukin (IL)-10-expressing CD19hiFcγRIIbhi regulatory B cells in vitro and in vivo. Splenic transitional-1, -2, and -3 cells and marginal zone B cells, but not follicular B cells, differentiate into IL-10-expressing CD19hiFcγRIIbhi regulatory B cells. The adoptive transfer of CD19hiFcγRIIbhi regulatory B cells via tail vein injection can promote subcutaneous 3LL tumour growth in mice. The expression of programmed death-ligand 1 on MDSCs was found to be strongly associated with CD19hiFcγRIIbhi regulatory B cell population expansion. Furthermore, the frequency of circulating CD19+FcγRIIhi regulatory B cells was significantly increased in advanced-stage lung cancer patients. Our results unveil a critical role of MDSCs in regulatory B-cell differentiation and population expansion in lung cancer patients.

Differentiating the human heart: A focus on atrioventricular canal cardiomyocytes

Bioengineering of a functional human heart continues to face many challenges, including the production of distinct cardiac cell types. Now, in Cell Stem Cell, Ye et al.1 develop AVC-like cardiomyocytes through timing- and concentration-specific activation of canonical Wnt signaling.

Complications and psychological impact of pressure ulcers on patients and caregivers

Pressure ulcers are persistent skin lesions that have substantial detrimental effects on the physical well-being of patients. Moreover, their psychological ramifications for both patients and their caregivers are becoming more widely acknowledged. This research was conducted to examine the psychological ramifications of pressure ulcers and ascertain efficacious approaches to mitigate these effects and improve overall well-being. A cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2022 to December 2023 across tertiary care centres located in Beijing. The cohort consisted of 431 participants, which included primary caregivers and patients who were diagnosed with pressure ulcers. The data were gathered through the utilization of structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. These methods encompassed demographic details, clinical characteristics and validated scales that assessed psychological parameters, including quality of life, anxiety, stress and depression. The research exposed substantial psychological toll on both individuals receiving care and those providing care, with caregivers enduring diminished quality of life and elevated levels of anxiety, depression and stress (p < 0.05). A significant positive correlation was identified between the degree of psychological distress and severity of pressure ulcers (p < 0.05). Both location of the ulcer and duration of care were substantial contributors to the psychological burden (p < 0.05). In spite of the apparent necessity, a significant proportion of the participants refrained from obtaining psychological counselling. The results underscored the significant psychological ramifications of pressure ulcers for both individuals receiving care and the caregivers. As a result, comprehensive care strategies that incorporate psychological assistance into the prescribed treatment plan are imperative. This research highlighted the criticality of implementing all-encompassing, interdisciplinary approaches to tackle the complex issues presented by pressure ulcers in an effort to enhance the general welfare of those influences.

HERC5-catalyzed ISGylation potentiates cGAS-mediated innate immunity

The cytosolic DNA sensor cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) is essential to elicit type I interferon cascade response; thus, the activity of cGAS must be strictly regulated to boost the antiviral innate immunity. Here, we report that cGAS is responsible for the DNA-induced ISG15 conjugation system. The E3 HERC5 catalyzes the ISGylation of cytoplasmic cGAS at lysine 21, 187, 219, and 458, whereas Ubl carboxy-terminal hydrolase 18 removes the ISGylation of cGAS. The interaction of cGAS and HERC5 depends on the cGAS C-terminal domain and the RRC1-4 and RRC1-5 domains of HERC5. Mechanically, HERC5-catalyzed ISGylation promotes DNA-induced cGAS oligomerization and enhances cGAS enzymatic activity. Deficiency of ISGylation attenuates the downstream inflammatory gene expression induced by the cGAS-STING axis and the antiviral ability in mouse and human cells. Mice deficient in Isg15 or Herc6 are more vulnerable to herpes simplex virus 1 infection. Collectively, our study shows a positive feedback regulation of the cGAS-mediated innate immune pathway by ISGylation.

An Intelligent Early Warning System for Harmful Algal Blooms: Harnessing the Power of Big Data and Deep Learning

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) pose a significant ecological threat and economic detriment to freshwater environments. In order to develop an intelligent early warning system for HABs, big data and deep learning models were harnessed in this study. Data collection was achieved utilizing the vertical aquatic monitoring system (VAMS). Subsequently, the analysis and stratification of the vertical aquatic layer were conducted employing the "DeepDPM-Spectral Clustering" method. This approach drastically reduced the number of predictive models and enhanced the adaptability of the system. The Bloomformer-2 model was developed to conduct both single-step and multistep predictions of Chl-a, integrating the " Alert Level Framework" issued by the World Health Organization to accomplish early warning for HABs. The case study conducted in Taihu Lake revealed that during the winter of 2018, the water column could be partitioned into four clusters (Groups W1-W4), while in the summer of 2019, the water column could be partitioned into five clusters (Groups S1-S5). Moreover, in a subsequent predictive task, Bloomformer-2 exhibited superiority in performance across all clusters for both the winter of 2018 and the summer of 2019 (MAE: 0.175-0.394, MSE: 0.042-0.305, and MAPE: 0.228-2.279 for single-step prediction; MAE: 0.184-0.505, MSE: 0.101-0.378, and MAPE: 0.243-4.011 for multistep prediction). The prediction for the 3 days indicated that Group W1 was in a Level I alert state at all times. Conversely, Group S1 was mainly under an Level I alert, with seven specific time points escalating to a Level II alert. Furthermore, the end-to-end architecture of this system, coupled with the automation of its various processes, minimized human intervention, endowing it with intelligent characteristics. This research highlights the transformative potential of integrating big data and artificial intelligence in environmental management and emphasizes the importance of model interpretability in machine learning applications.

Transcriptome Analysis of Compensatory Growth and Meat Quality Alteration after Varied Restricted Feeding Conditions in Beef Cattle

Compensatory growth (CG) is a physiological response that accelerates growth following a period of nutrient limitation, with the potential to improve growth efficiency and meat quality in cattle. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. In this study, 60 Huaxi cattle were divided into one ad libitum feeding (ALF) group and two restricted feeding groups (75% restricted, RF75; 50% restricted, RF50) undergoing a short-term restriction period followed by evaluation of CG. Detailed comparisons of growth performance during the experimental period, as well as carcass and meat quality traits, were conducted, complemented by a comprehensive transcriptome analysis of the longissimus dorsi muscle using differential expression analysis, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), gene set variation analysis (GSVA), and weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA). The results showed that irrespective of the restriction degree, the restricted animals exhibited CG, achieving final body weights comparable to the ALF group. Compensating animals showed differences in meat quality traits, such as pH, cooking loss, and fat content, compared to the ALF group. Transcriptomic analysis revealed 57 genes and 31 pathways differentially regulated during CG, covering immune response, acid-lipid metabolism, and protein synthesis. Notably, complement-coagulation-fibrinolytic system synergy was identified as potentially responsible for meat quality optimization in RF75. This study provides novel and valuable genetic insights into the regulatory mechanisms of CG in beef cattle.

Single-cell chromatin profiling reveals genetic programs activating proregenerative states in nonmyocyte cells

Cardiac regeneration requires coordinated participation of multiple cell types whereby their communications result in transient activation of proregenerative cell states. Although the molecular characteristics and lineage origins of these activated cell states and their contribution to cardiac regeneration have been studied, the extracellular signaling and the intrinsic genetic program underlying the activation of the transient functional cell states remain largely unexplored. In this study, we delineated the chromatin landscapes of the noncardiomyocytes (nonCMs) of the regenerating heart at the single-cell level and inferred the cis-regulatory architectures and trans-acting factors that control cell type-specific gene expression programs. Moreover, further motif analysis and cell-specific genetic manipulations suggest that the macrophage-derived inflammatory signal tumor necrosis factor-α, acting via its downstream transcription factor complex activator protein-1, functions cooperatively with discrete transcription regulators to activate respective nonCM cell types critical for cardiac regeneration. Thus, our study defines the regulatory architectures and intercellular communication principles in zebrafish heart regeneration.

Vitamin C facilitates direct cardiac reprogramming by inhibiting reactive oxygen species

BACKGROUND

After myocardial infarction, the lost myocardium is replaced by fibrotic tissue, eventually progressively leading to myocardial dysfunction. Direct reprogramming of fibroblasts into cardiomyocytes via the forced overexpression of cardiac transcription factors Gata4, Mef2c, and Tbx5 (GMT) offers a promising strategy for cardiac repair. The limited reprogramming efficiency of this approach, however, remains a significant challenge.

METHODS

We screened seven factors capable of improving direct cardiac reprogramming of both mice and human fibroblasts by evaluating small molecules known to be involved in cardiomyocyte differentiation or promoting human-induced pluripotent stem cell reprogramming.

RESULTS

We found that vitamin C (VitC) significantly increased cardiac reprogramming efficiency when added to GMT-overexpressing fibroblasts from human and mice in 2D and 3D model. We observed a significant increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in human and mice fibroblasts upon Doxy induction, and ROS generation was subsequently reduced upon VitC treatment, associated with increased reprogramming efficiency. However, upon treatment with dehydroascorbic acid, a structural analog of VitC but lacking antioxidant properties, no difference in reprogramming efficiency was observed, suggesting that the effect of VitC in enhancing cardiac reprogramming is partly dependent of its antioxidant properties.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrate that VitC supplementation significantly enhances the efficiency of cardiac reprogramming, partially by suppressing ROS production in the presence of GMT.

Epigenetic Regulation of Cardiomyocyte Maturation by Arginine Methyltransferase CARM1

BACKGROUND

During the neonatal stage, the cardiomyocyte undergoes a constellation of molecular, cytoarchitectural, and functional changes known collectively as cardiomyocyte maturation to increase myocardial contractility and cardiac output. Despite the importance of cardiomyocyte maturation, the molecular mechanisms governing this critical process remain largely unexplored.

METHODS

We leveraged an in vivo mosaic knockout system to characterize the role of Carm1, the founding member of protein arginine methyltransferase, in cardiomyocyte maturation. Using a battery of assays, including immunohistochemistry, immuno-electron microscopy imaging, and action potential recording, we assessed the effect of loss of Carm1 function on cardiomyocyte cell growth, myofibril expansion, T-tubule formation, and electrophysiological maturation. Genome-wide transcriptome profiling, H3R17me2a chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing, and assay for transposase-accessible chromatin with high-throughput sequencing were used to investigate the mechanisms by which CARM1 (coactivator-associated arginine methyltransferase 1) regulates cardiomyocyte maturation. Finally, we interrogated the human syntenic region to the H3R17me2a chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing peaks for single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated with human heart diseases.

RESULTS

We report that mosaic ablation of Carm1 disrupts multiple aspects of cardiomyocyte maturation cell autonomously, leading to reduced cardiomyocyte size and sarcomere thickness, severe loss and disorganization of T tubules, and compromised electrophysiological maturation. Genomics study demonstrates that CARM1 directly activates genes that underlie cardiomyocyte cytoarchitectural and electrophysiological maturation. Moreover, our study reveals significant enrichment of human heart disease-associated single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the human genomic region syntenic to the H3R17me2a chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing peaks.

CONCLUSIONS

This study establishes a critical and multifaceted role for CARM1 in regulating cardiomyocyte maturation and demonstrates that deregulation of CARM1-dependent cardiomyocyte maturation gene expression may contribute to human heart diseases.

Liposome-exosome hybrids for in situ detection of exosomal miR-1246 in breast cancer

Several lines of evidence suggest that exosomal miRNAs are potential biomarkers for cancer monitoring. An urgent need remains for the in situ detection of exosomal miRNAs at low concentrations without destroying the exosome structure. In the present study, a novel sensitive exosomal miR-1246 in situ detection strategy has been developed by integrating the CRISPR/Cas13a system with the formation of hybrids between exosomes and cationic liposomes. The liposomes were loaded with CRISPR/Cas13a, CRISPR RNA (crRNA), and RNA reporter probes. In the presence of exosomes, the liposome-exosome hybrids were formed through electrostatic interactions, and CRISPR/Cas13a was activated to cleave the reporter probes by exosomal miR-1246. The acquired fluorescence signal showed a linear response to the logarithm of MCF-7 exosome concentrations, indicating a quantitative response to exosomal miR-1246. The regression equation is y = 5021 log C - 9976 (R2 = 0.9985) with a limit of detection of 3 × 102 particles per mL. This strategy could not only be used to detect serum exosomal miR-1246 in breast cancer patients but also to distinguish early form advanced disease. This strategy can be exploited in future exosomal miRNA analyses.

Establishment of diabetes mellitus model using Bombyx mori silkworms in a low-temperature environment

Due to the high prevalence of diabetes mellitus, researchers have conducted numerous experimental animal studies. However, the mammalian diabetes model is cumbersome and expensive to operate, while the cheap and simple common silkworm diabetes model has the disadvantage of a short cycle time. Since the growth of silkworms is greatly affected by environmental factors, we extended the five-age cycle of silkworms by lowering the ambient temperature to establish a novel low-temperature silkworm diabetes model. Our goal was to determine whether the low-temperature feeding of a high-sugar diet to silkworms could serve as an effective animal model for diabetes. Also, we aimed to resolve certain issues concerning the normal temperature silkworm diabetes model, such as the short time frame for experiments and erratic fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Silkworms weighing between 0.9 and 1.0 g at the beginning of the fifth instar were selected, and we created diabetic silkworms by feeding mulberry leaves containing 4% glucose daily in a 16-20°C environment. When the silkworms were kept at a cooler temperature, the fifth instar stage lasted for an additional 9-11 days. In the model group, 83.3% of the silkworms had blood glucose levels greater than 7.8 mmol/L, while the total prevalence of diabetic silkworms was 89.8%. Moreover, JNK phosphorylation expression rose in the model group, while PI3K expression fell. Additionally, the JNK and PI3K signaling pathway expressions matched diabetic signals. Therefore, using silkworms to create a diabetes model in a cool environment is a straightforward and cost-effective approach to studying diabetes in animals.

Fibroblast Reprogramming in Cardiac Repair

Cardiovascular disease is one of the major causes of death worldwide. Limited proliferative capacity of adult mammalian cardiomyocytes has prompted researchers to exploit regenerative therapy after myocardial injury, such as myocardial infarction, to attenuate heart dysfunction caused by such injury. Direct cardiac reprogramming is a recently emerged promising approach to repair damaged myocardium by directly converting resident cardiac fibroblasts into cardiomyocyte-like cells. The achievement of in vivo direct reprogramming of fibroblasts has been shown, by multiple laboratories independently, to improve cardiac function and mitigate fibrosis post-myocardial infarction, which holds great potential for clinical application. There have been numerous pieces of valuable work in both basic and translational research to enhance our understanding and continued refinement of direct cardiac reprogramming in recent years. However, there remain many challenges to overcome before we can truly take advantage of this technique to treat patients with ischemic cardiac diseases. Here, we review recent progress of fibroblast reprogramming in cardiac repair, including the optimization of several reprogramming strategies, mechanistic exploration, and translational efforts, and we make recommendations for future research to further understand and translate direct cardiac reprogramming from bench to bedside. Challenges relating to these efforts will also be discussed.

Coupling coordination and spatio-temporal evolution of land-use benefits under the dual carbon goal: A case study in Anhui, China

According to the dual carbon goal, urban development should adhere to the principle of low-carbon sustainable development in order to reach the "carbon peak" in 2030 and "carbon neutrality" in 2060. To achieve the dual carbon goal and sustainable land resource utilization, it is necessary to seek ways to improve land-use benefits and promote the coordinated development of economic, social, and ecological benefits. Therefore, the study analysed the coupling coordination and spatio-temporal evolution of land-use benefits in Anhui province, aiming to provide a reference for improving the level of regional land-use benefits. First, we developed a land-use benefit evaluation indicator system that took into account the dual carbon goal from three perspectives: economic benefits, social benefits, and ecological benefits or economic, social, and ecological benefits. Following that, we evaluated the spatial-temporal characteristics of land-use benefits using the coupling coordination model and coupling coordination gravity model. The results showed: (1) From the time scale, the comprehensive land-use benefits showed an increasing trend from 2011 to 2020, the coordination state changed from "moderately uncoordinated" to "on the verge of uncoordinated". (2) From the perspective of spatial differences, the coupling coordination level of land-use benefits in 16 prefecture-level cities increased year by year, but no prefecture-level cities reached the coordination stage. (3) As for the spatial linkage strength of coupling coordination of land-use benefits, 16 prefecture-level cities in 2011, 2015 and 2020 presented a similar spatial linkage pattern, and the coupling coordination of prefecture-level cities in southeast Anhui province was strongly influenced by regional factors.

m6A modification patterns are associated with copy number burden and tumor immune landscape in thyroid cancer

BACKGROUND

The association involving N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification, molecular subtype and specific immune cell group in tumor microenvironment has been the focus of recent studies. The underlying function of m6A modification in thyroid cancer (TC) remains elusive.

METHODS

The m6A modification regulations, molecular character and tumor immune profile of 461 TC patients were explored and then the correlation between them were comprehensively evaluated. The m6Ascore was established using principal component analysis (PCA) to quantify the m6A pattern of individual TC patients. The prognostic significance of the m6Ascore was evaluated by multivariate Cox regression analysis.

RESULTS

Four m6Aclusters (mc1, 2, 3, 4)-characterized by differences in extent of aneuploidy, expression of immunomodulatory genes, mRNA or lncRNA expression pattern and prognosis were identified. T Preliminary validation of m6Ascore was a potential independent prognostic factor of TC involving in mc3. Finally, the prognostic value of the m6Ascore and its association with copy number variation (CNV) and tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) of TC in mc3 were verified.

CONCLUSIONS

The correlation between m6A modification, the copy number burden and tumor immune landscape in TC was demonstrated. A m6Acluster-mc3 with low m6Ascore and high CNV molecular subtype was identified with poor clinical prognosis, low infiltrating immunocyte and weak effector T cell. A three-gene clinical prognosis model for TC based on 4 m6a cluster expression was established. Understanding of TIME is enhanced by comprehensive assessment of m6A patterns in individual TC patients and gives a new insight toward improved immunotherapy strategies for TC cancer patients.

Abiotic and Biotic Reduction of Iodate Driven by Shewanella oneidensis MR-1

Iodate (IO3-) can be abiotically reduced by Fe(II) or biotically reduced by the dissimilatory Fe(III)-reducing bacterium Shewanella oneidensis (MR-1) via its DmsEFAB and MtrCAB. However, the intermediates and stoichiometry between the Fe(II) and IO3- reaction and the relative contribution of abiotic and biotic IO3- reduction by biogenic Fe(II) and MR-1 in the presence of Fe(III) remain unclear. In this study, we found that abiotic reduction of IO3- by Fe(II) produced intermediates HIO and I- at a ratio of 1:2, followed by HIO disproportionation to I- and IO3-. Comparative analyses of IO3- reduction by MR-1 wild type (WT), MR-1 mutants deficient in DmsEFAB or MtrCAB, and Shewanella sp. ANA-3 in the presence of Fe(III)-citrate, Fe(III) oxides, or clay minerals showed that abiotic IO3- reduction by biogenic Fe(II) predominated under iron-rich conditions, while biotic IO3- reduction by DmsEFAB played a more dominant role under iron-poor conditions. Compared to that in the presence of Fe(III)-citrate, MR-1 WT reduced more IO3- in the presence of Fe(III) oxides and clay minerals. The observed abiotic and biotic IO3- reduction by MR-1 under Fe-rich and Fe-limited conditions suggests that Fe(III)-reducing bacteria could contribute to the transformation of iodine species and I- enrichment in natural iodine-rich environments.

Can we stop one heart from breaking: triumphs and challenges in cardiac reprogramming

Ischemic cardiac injury causes irreversible muscle loss and scarring, but recent years have seen dramatic advances in cardiac reprogramming, the field focused on regenerating cardiac muscle. With SARS-CoV2 increasing the age-adjusted cardiovascular disease mortality rate, it is worth evaluating the state of this field. Here, we summarize novel innovations in reprogramming strategies, insights into their mechanisms, and technologies for factor delivery. We also propose a broad model of reprogramming to suggest directions for future research. Poet Emily Dickinson wrote, "If I can stop one heart from breaking, I shall not live in vain." Today, researchers studying cardiac reprogramming view this line as a call to action to translate this revolutionary approach into life-saving treatments for patients with cardiovascular diseases.

Stauntonia chinensis injection relieves neuropathic pain by increasing the expression of PSD-95 and reducing the proliferation of phagocytic microglia

Neuroinflammation induced by engulfment of synapses by phagocytic microglia plays a crucial role in neuropathic pain. Stauntonia chinensis is extracted from Stauntonia chinensis DC, which has been used as a traditional Chinese medicine to control trigeminal neuralgia or sciatica. However, the specific anti-neuralgia mechanism of Stauntonia chinensis is unknown. In this study, the analgesic effect of Stauntonia chinensis injection (SCI) in mice with neuropathic pain and the possible mechanisms are explored. We find that a local injection of 0.1 mL Stauntonia chinensis for 14 days can considerably relieve mechanical hyperalgesia and thermal hyperalgesia in mice with sciatic chronic constriction injury (CCI). Immunofluorescence staining shows that SCI reduces neuroinflammation in the spinal cord of CCI mice. RNA sequencing reveals that the expression of postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD-95), a postsynaptic scaffold protein, is downregulated in the spinal cord of CCI mice, but upregulated after SCI administration. Immunofluorescence experiments also demonstrate that SCI administration reverses microglia proliferation and PSD-95 downregulation in CCI mice. These data suggest that SCI relieves neuropathic pain by increasing the expression of PSD-95 and reducing the proliferation of phagocytic microglia.

A prospective ecological risk assessment method based on exposure and ecological scenarios (ERA-EES) to determine soil ecological risks around metal mining areas

Soil heavy metal (HM) contamination around metal mining areas (MMAs) is a global concern that requires a cost-effective ecological risk assessment (ERA) method for preventive management. Traditional ERAs, comparing environmental HM concentrations with benchmarks, are labor- and cost-intensive in field investigations and chemical analyses, which challenge the management demands of numerous MMAs. In this study, a prospective ecological risk assessment method based on exposure and ecological scenario (ERA-EES) was developed to predict the eco-risk levels (low/medium/high) around MMAs prior to field sampling. Five exposure scenario indicators related to soil HM exposure and three ecological scenario indicators reflecting the soil bioreceptor response were selected and combined with the analytic hierarchy process and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation methods for ERA-EES development. Case application and performance evaluation with 67 MMAs in China demonstrated that the ERA-EES method had an overall effective and conservative performance when referring to potential ecological risk index (PERI) levels, with an accuracy of 0.87, kappa coefficient of 0.7, and low or medium eco-risk levels in PERI classified to high levels in ERA-EES. Overall, the selected scenario indicators could efficiently reflect the risk levels of soil HM pollution from mining activities. Besides, more regulatory efforts should be paid to the MMAs of nonferrous metals, underground and long-term mining and those located in southern China. This work provided a convenient and cost-effective prospective ERA method under the trend of ERA being tiered and refined, facilitating the risk management of various MMAs.

Translational landscape of direct cardiac reprogramming reveals a role of Ybx1 in repressing cardiac fate acquisition

Direct reprogramming of fibroblasts into induced cardiomyocytes holds great promise for heart regeneration. Although considerable progress has been made in understanding the transcriptional and epigenetic mechanisms of iCM reprogramming, its translational regulation remains largely unexplored. Here, we characterized the translational landscape of iCM reprogramming through integrative ribosome and transcriptomic profiling, and found extensive translatome repatterning during this process. Loss of function screening for translational regulators uncovered Ybx1 as a critical barrier to iCM induction. In a mouse model of myocardial infarction, removing Ybx1 enhanced in vivo reprogramming, resulting in improved heart function and reduced scar size. Mechanistically, Ybx1 depletion de-repressed the translation of its direct targets SRF and Baf60c, both of which mediated the effect of Ybx1 depletion on iCM generation. Furthermore, removal of Ybx1 allowed single factor Tbx5-mediated iCM conversion. In summary, this study revealed a new layer of regulatory mechanism that controls cardiac reprogramming at the translational level.

Topsoil selenium (Se) under Se-rich farming in China: Current status, cropping impacts and ecological risk assessment

Selenium (Se), as an essential microelement, can be supplied through Se-biofortified food from Se-rich soils and associated farming practices for human health, while it can also cause eco-risks if overapplied. In this study, a multi-scale spatiotemporal meta-analysis was conducted to guide sustainable Se-rich farming in China by combining a long-term survey with a reviewed database. The weighted mean concentration, spatial distribution of soil Se, nationwide topsoil Se variation from cropping impacts and its bioavailability-based ecological risks were assessed and quantified. The results showed that the weighted mean content (0.3 mg kg-1) of China was slightly higher than that of previous nationwide topsoil Se surveys, as more Se-rich areas were found in recent high-density sampling surveys. Cropping has overall reduced Se content by 9.5% from farmland across China and deprived more with the increase in farming rotation driven by geo-climatic conditions. Long-term cropping removed Se from Se-rich areas but accumulated it in Se-deficient areas. Additionally, the bioavailable Se content of topsoil in China ranged from 0 to 332 μg kg-1, and the bioavailability-based eco-risks indicated that high eco-risks only existed in overfertilized and extremely high-Se soils, such as in Enshi, Ziyang and some coalfield areas. This work provides evidence for the development of sustainable Se-rich farming with proper utilization of soil Se resources, simultaneously protecting the soil eco-environment.

Gastric ectopic pancreas adenocarcinoma: A case report and literature review

The incidence of malignant transformation in ectopic pancreas (EP), including adenocarcinoma, is extremely rare. Herein, we presented a single case with invasive adenocarcinoma caused by the EP in the stomach. The patient consulted our hospital due to abdominal discomfort with acid regurgitation. Computed tomography scan showed a pyloric obstruction and thickening of the gastric wall in the gastric antrum; a digestive endoscopic examination showed mucosal congestion, swelling in the anterior pyloric area, and pyloric canal stenosis. Next, the patient underwent gastrointestinal surgery, and the distal gastrectomy specimens revealed a deviation of 10 cm towards the lesser curvature and an extension of 22 cm towards the greater curvature. A 5.5 x 5.4 cm round-like mass was found during surgery. Pathological examination suggested invasive submucosal adenocarcinoma located under the gastric antrum mucosa. Our report provides additional clinical experience for diagnosing EP with canceration in the stomach.

Validation of the mild cognitive impairment health literacy assessment scale (MCI-HLA scale) in middle-aged and older adults

OBJECTIVES

Health literacy (HL) is associated with early prevention of mild cognitive impairment (MCI), but a targeted comprehensive assessment tool is lacking. This study aims to psychometrically evaluate the MCI-HLA scale.

METHODS

This observational study was conducted in a tertiary-level hospital's physical examination center from October to December 2020. The middle-aged and older adults (N = 550, aged 41-80 years) completed the MCI-HLA questionnaire online. The validity of the MCI-HLA scale was assessed through content validity, exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), convergent validity, and discriminant validity. The internal reliability was measured using Cronbach's alpha, McDonald's Omega coefficient, and split-half reliability.

RESULTS

5 factors emerged, naming: Function (7 items), Knowledge (8 items), Practice (8 items), Attitude (4 items), and Motivation (3 items), explaining 72.42% of variance. The CFA revealed that five factors of the MCI-HLA scale fit well (χ2/df=4.076, RMSEA=0.078, SRMR=0.057, CFI=0.904, TLI=0.894). Good convergent validity was suggested by the Average Variance Extracted (AVE) values exceeding 0.50. Discriminant validity was demonstrated for all the square root AVE were higher than the correlation between the two factors. Internal consistency was high (Cronbach's alpha=0.875, McDonald's Omega coefficient=0.910, split-half reliability=0.949).

CONCLUSIONS

The MCI-HLA scale takes on high reliability and validity, suitable for assessing MCI-related health literacy in middle-aged and older adults. The MCI-HLA scale could enhance MCI health literacy assessment and supports tailored interventions for improved outcomes.

Bacterial Sulfate Reduction Facilitates Iodine Mobilization in the Deep Confined Aquifer of the North China Plain

Bacterial sulfate reduction plays a crucial role in the mobilization of toxic substances in aquifers. However, the role of bacterial sulfate reduction on iodine mobilization in geogenic high-iodine groundwater systems has been unexplored. In this study, the enrichment of groundwater δ34SSO4 (15.56 to 69.31‰) and its significantly positive correlation with iodide and total iodine concentrations in deep groundwater samples of the North China Plain suggested that bacterial sulfate reduction participates in the mobilization of groundwater iodine. Similar significantly positive correlations were further observed between the concentrations of iodide and total iodine and the relative abundance of the dsrB gene by qPCR, as well as the composition and abundance of sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) predicted from 16S rRNA gene high-throughput sequencing data. Subsequent batch culture experiments by the SRB Desulfovibrio sp. B304 demonstrated that SRB could facilitate iodine mobilization through the enzyme-driven biotic and sulfide-driven abiotic reduction of iodate to iodide. In addition, the dehalogenation of organoiodine compounds by SRB and the reductive dissolution of iodine-bearing iron minerals by biogenic sulfide could liberate bound or adsorbed iodine into groundwater. The role of bacterial sulfate reduction in iodine mobilization revealed in this study provides new insights into our understanding of iodide enrichment in iodine-rich aquifers worldwide.

Targeting XPO1 Combined with Radiotherapy to Enhance Systemic Anti-tumor Effects in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

The combination of radiation and radiosensitizing chemotherapeutic agents have shown promising anti-tumor effects in NSCLC. Acting as an oncogenic driver, XPO1 is frequently overexpressed and/or mutated in lung cancer. Thus, suppression of XPO1-mediated nuclear export presents a unique therapeutic strategy. We hypothesize that XPO1 inhibition combined with radiotherapy (XRT) may remodel the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) and reduce radioresistance, thus enhance systemic anti-tumor effects.

MATERIALS/METHODS

Herein, we optimized a small molecule inhibitor, WJ01024, which can bind to XPO1 and antagonize its activity to inhibit nuclear export. In the C57BL/6 mouse subcutaneous tumor model, we evaluated the ability of different treatment regimens containing oral WJ01014 single or combined with XRT (one fractions of 15 Gy) in tumor control and tumor recurrence inhibition. The effects of each treatment regimen on the alterations of immunophenotypes, including the quantification, activation, proliferative capacity, exhaustion marker expression, and memory status, were evaluated by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

In our study, we found that the overexpression of XPO1 was associated with poor prognosis and survival in radioresistant patients with NSCLC. The combination therapy of WJ01024 and XRT resulted in an increase of apoptosis and a decrease of proliferation compared to monotherapy, which was closely correlated with tumor regression and improved survival in the C57BL/6 mouse subcutaneous tumor model. Notably, we found that WJ01024 were shown to enhance the therapeutic effect of XRT by remodeling TIME. Compared with XRT, the addition of WJ01024 increased the infiltration and proliferation of radiation-stimulated CD8+ T cells, which especially promoted the production of interferon-γ and granzyme B. Moreover, the combination therapy also reversed the immunosuppressive effect of radiation on the percentage of Tregs and exhausted T cells in mouse xenografts. Thus, the TIME was significantly improved in combination therapy. Strikingly, mechanistic studies suggested that the activation of cyclic GMP-AMP synthase/stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS/STING) signaling pathway is required to reshape TIME and produce synergistic anti-tumor effect with the combination of WJ01024 and XRT.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that WJ01024 might be a potential synergistic treatment for radiotherapy to control the proliferation of NSCLC cells, promote tumor regression and prolong survival in mouse model of NSCLC by activating cGAS/STING signaling, and this in turn potentiate the immune microenvironment.

Serum levels of polychlorinated biphenyls and polybrominated diphenyl ethers in early pregnancy and their associations with gestational diabetes mellitus

Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) and Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) are extensively present in humans and may disturb glucose metabolism during pregnancy. However, previous reports on the associations between PCBs/PBDEs levels and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) have been inconsistent. We performed a nested case-control study to measure the serum levels of 6 PCB and 7 PBDE congeners in early pregnancy, and to assess their associations with GDM risk and blood glucose levels. Totally, 208 serum samples (104 GDM cases and 104 controls) were included based on a prospective cohort which was carried out in Jiangsu province, China, from 2020 to 2022. The results showed that PCB-153 was the major PCB congener, whereas PBDE-47 was the predominant PBDE congener. The continuous concentrations of PCB-153, PBDE-28, and total PCB were significantly related to an increased risk of GDM, with adjusted ORs (95%CI) of 1.25 (1.04-1.50), 1.19 (1.02-1.39), and 1.37 (1.05-1.79), respectively. Potential dose-response relationships were also observed between serum levels of PCB-153 (P = 0.011), PBDE-28 (P = 0.028), total PCB (P = 0.048), and total PCB/PBDE (P = 0.010) and GDM risk. Moreover, PCB-153, PBDE-28 and total PCB levels were positively related to 1-h OGTT blood glucose (adjusted βPCB-153: 0.14, 95%CI: 0.00-0.28; adjusted βPBDE-28: 0.20, 95%CI: 0.08-0.32; adjusted βtotal PCB: 0.30, 95%CI: 0.09-0.50), whereas none of the PCBs/PBDEs were statistically related to fasting blood glucose and 2-h OGTT blood glucose (all P > 0.05). Further meta-analysis also supported the association of PCBs exposure with GDM risk. Our study provides further evidence that PCBs/PBDEs exposure may increase GDM risk during pregnancy.

Dynamics of trace element enrichment in blue carbon ecosystems in relation to anthropogenic activities

Blue carbon ecosystems (BCEs), located at the land-sea interface, provide critical ecological services including the buffering of anthropogenic pollutants. Understanding the interactions between trace element (TE) loads in BCEs and socioeconomic development is imperative to informing management plans to address pollution issues. However, the identification of anthropogenic TE pollution in BCEs remains uncertain due to the complex geochemical and depositional processes and asynchronous socioeconomic development along continental coastlines. Here, priority-controlled TE (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, and Zn) concentrations in the mangrove, saltmarsh and seagrass soils and plant tissues along the coastline of China were investigated while taking bare flat and upland soils as corresponding references. We demonstrate that blue carbon (BC) soils accumulated markedly higher concentrations of anthropogenic TEs than the reference soils, mainly due to the effective trapping of fine-grained particles and higher binding capacities. We identify the time course of TE changes over the last 100 years which shows increasing anthropogenic TE accumulation resulting from military activities (1930-1950) and the growth of industrial and agricultural activities (1950-1980), then reaching a maximum after national economic reform (1980-2000). Since the 2000s, decreases in TE discharges driven by socioeconomic reform and strengthened environmental regulations have led to a widespread reversal of anthropogenic TE concentrations in BC soils. Based on the current TE flux we estimate that BCEs can filter over 27.3-100 % of the TEs emitted in industrial wastewaters from Chinese coastal provinces annually. However, the uptake of these TEs by plants can be substantially reduced through various mechanisms offered by edaphic properties such as organic carbon, clay, and sulfur contents. Therefore, enhancing TE filtering while preventing TEs from entering food webs through the conservation and restoration of BCEs will greatly aid in achieving the sustainable development goal of the coastal zone under intensified anthropogenic activities.

Ciprofloxacin enhances cadmium toxicity to earthworm Eisenia fetida by altering the gut microorganism composition

The concurrent existence of cadmium (Cd) and ciprofloxacin (CIP) in agricultural soils is very common, but presents a challenge to soil organisms. As more attention has been paid to the effect of toxic metals on the migration of antibiotic resistance genes, the critical role of the gut microbiota in CIP-modifying Cd toxicity in earthworms remains unclear. In this study, Eisenia fetida was exposed to Cd and CIP alone or in combination at environmentally relevant concentrations. Cd and CIP accumulation in earthworm increased as their respective spiked concentrations increased. In fact, Cd accumulation increased by 39.7% when 1 mg/kg CIP was added; however, the addition of Cd did not affect CIP uptake. Compared with exposure to Cd alone, a greater ingestion of Cd following combined exposure to Cd and 1 mg/kg CIP resulted in greater oxidative stress and energy metabolism disturbances in earthworms. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) contents and apoptosis rate of coelomocytes were more sensitive to Cd than these biochemical indicators. In fact, 1 mg/kg Cd induced the derivation of ROS. Similarly, the toxicity of Cd (5 mg/kg) to coelomocytes was promoted by CIP (1 mg/kg), ROS content in coelomocytes and the apoptosis rate increased by 29.2% and 113.1%, respectively, due to increased Cd accumulation. Further investigation of the gut microorganisms revealed that the decreased abundance of Streptomyces strains (known as Cd accumulation taxa) could be a critical factor for enhanced Cd accumulation and greater Cd toxicity to earthworms following exposure to both Cd and CIP; this was because this microorganism group was eliminated by the simultaneous ingestion of CIP. This study stressed the role of gut microorganisms in altering the toxicity of Cd and CIP combined contamination in soil organisms. More attention should be paid to the ecological risks of such combined contamination in soils.

Longitudinal Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis Underlies Olanzapine-Induced Weight Gain

Olanzapine is one of the most effective medicines available for stabilizing schizophrenia spectrum disorders. However, it has been reported to show the greatest propensity for inducing body weight gain and producing metabolic side effects, which cause a great burden in patients with psychiatric disorders. Since the gut microbiota has a profound impact on the initiation and development of metabolic diseases, we conducted a longitudinal study to explore its role in olanzapine-induced obesity and metabolic abnormalities. Female Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with different doses of olanzapine, and metabolic and inflammatory markers were measured. Olanzapine significantly induced body weight gain (up to a 2.1-fold change), which was accompanied by hepatic inflammation and increased plasma triglyceride levels (up to a 2.9-fold change), as well as gut microbiota dysbiosis. Subsequently, fuzzy c-means clustering was used to characterize three clusters of longitudinal trajectories for microbial fluctuations: (i) genera continuing to increase, (ii) genera continuing to decrease, and (iii) genera temporarily changing. Among them, Enterorhabdus (r = 0.38), Parasutterella (r = 0.43), and Prevotellaceae UCG-001 (r = 0.52) positively correlated with body weight gain. In addition, two MetaCyc metabolic pathways were identified as associated with olanzapine-induced body weight gain, including the superpathway of glucose and xylose degradation and the superpathway of l-threonine biosynthesis. In conclusion, we demonstrate that olanzapine can directly alter the gut microbiota and rapidly induce dysbiosis, which is significantly associated with body weight gain. This may suggest gut microbiota targets in future studies on metabolic abnormalities caused by olanzapine. IMPORTANCE Olanzapine is one of the most effective second-generation antipsychotics for stabilizing schizophrenia spectrum disorders. However, olanzapine has multiple drug-induced metabolic side effects, including weight gain. This study provides insight to the gut microbiota target in olanzapine-induced obesity. Specifically, we explored the longitudinal gut microbiota trajectories of female Sprague-Dawley rats undergoing olanzapine treatment. We showed that olanzapine treatment causes a dynamic alteration of gut microbiota diversity. Additionally, we identified three genera, Parasutterella, Enterorhabdus, and Prevotellaceae UCG-001, that may play an important role in olanzapine-induced obesity. In this case, the supply or removal of specific elements of the gut microbiota may represent a promising avenue for treatment of olanzapine-related metabolic side effects.

A binary pulsar in a 53-minute orbit

Spider pulsars are neutron stars that have a companion star in a close orbit. The companion star sheds material to the neutron star, spinning it up to millisecond rotation periods, while the orbit shortens to hours. The companion is eventually ablated and destroyed by the pulsar wind and radiation1,2. Spider pulsars are key for studying the evolutionary link between accreting X-ray pulsars and isolated millisecond pulsars, pulsar irradiation effects and the birth of massive neutron stars3-6. Black widow pulsars in extremely compact orbits (as short as 62 minutes7) have companions with masses much smaller than 0.1 M⊙. They may have evolved from redback pulsars with companion masses of about 0.1-0.4 M⊙ and orbital periods of less than 1 day8. If this is true, then there should be a population of millisecond pulsars with moderate-mass companions and very short orbital periods9, but, hitherto, no such system was known. Here we report radio observations of the binary millisecond pulsar PSR J1953+1844 (M71E) that show it to have an orbital period of 53.3 minutes and a companion with a mass of around 0.07 M⊙. It is a faint X-ray source and located 2.5 arcminutes from the centre of the globular cluster M71.

Discovery of potential biomarkers for lung cancer classification based on human proteome microarrays using Stochastic Gradient Boosting approach

PURPOSE

Early identification of lung cancer (LC) will considerably facilitate the intervention and prevention of LC. The human proteome micro-arrays approach can be used as a "liquid biopsy" to diagnose LC to complement conventional diagnosis, which needs advanced bioinformatics methods such as feature selection (FS) and refined machine learning models.

METHODS

A two-stage FS methodology by infusing Pearson's Correlation (PC) with a univariate filter (SBF) or recursive feature elimination (RFE) was used to reduce the redundancy of the original dataset. The Stochastic Gradient Boosting (SGB), Random Forest (RF), and Support Vector Machine (SVM) techniques were applied to build ensemble classifiers based on four subsets. The synthetic minority oversampling technique (SMOTE) was used in the preprocessing of imbalanced data.

RESULTS

FS approach with SBF and RFE extracted 25 and 55 features, respectively, with 14 overlapped ones. All three ensemble models demonstrate superior accuracy (ranging from 0.867 to 0.967) and sensitivity (0.917 to 1.00) in the test datasets with SGB of SBF subset outperforming others. The SMOTE technique has improved the model performance in the training process. Three of the top selected candidate biomarkers (LGR4, CDC34, and GHRHR) were highly suggested to play a role in lung tumorigenesis.

CONCLUSION

A novel hybrid FS method with classical ensemble machine learning algorithms was first used in the classification of protein microarray data. The parsimony model constructed by the SGB algorithm with the appropriate FS and SMOTE approach performs well in the classification task with higher sensitivity and specificity. Standardization and innovation of bioinformatics approach for protein microarray analysis need further exploration and validation.

[Retracted] CtBP1 interacts with SOX2 to promote the growth, migration and invasion of lung adenocarcinoma

Following the publication of this paper, it was drawn to the Editors' attention by a concerned reader that, for the western blots showing the CtBP1 and SOX2 bands in Fig. 5C on p. 74, the data were in fact the same, but flipped horizontally; moreover, two pairs of overlapping data panels were identified comparing between the cell invasion and assay data images shown in Figs. 3E and 6C, such that these were likely to have been derived from the same original sources even though they were intended to show the results from differently performed experiments; similarly, the 'shSOX2 / 24 h' and 'shCtBP1 / 24  h' data panels in Fig. 6B showing the results of differently performed scratch‑wound assay experiments appeared to be overlapping, albeit with one of the panels being slightly rotated relative to the other. Finally, there were erroneous calculations included for the CtBP1 expression data shown in Table III.  Given the large number of apparent errors that were made during the assembly of various of the figures and Table III in this paper, the Editor of Oncology Reports has decided that this paper should be retracted from the Journal due to an overall lack of confidence in the presented data. After contacting the authors, they accepted the decision to retract this paper. The Editor apologizes to the readership for any inconvenience caused. [Oncology Reports 42: 67‑78, 2019; DOI: 10.3892/or.2019.7142].

The criterion for dividing the surrounding rock EDZs of underground caverns based on the energy dissipation degree

An energy calculation parameter named the energy dissipation degree (RUd) is introduced based on the analysis of the energy dissipation mechanism and energy evolution characteristics during conventional triaxial tests of the granite of Shuangjiangkou. The deviatoric stress‒strain curve of rock can be divided into five stages using four stress thresholds (crack closure stress σcc, crack initiation stress σci, damage stress σcd and peak stress σp), which also correspond to the four RUd thresholds (RUdc, RUdi, RUdd and RUdp) on the energy dissipation degree-strain curve. A given stress threshold increases with increasing confining pressure; however, a given RUd threshold is basically stable under different confining pressures. Then, a new criterion for dividing the excavation damaged zones (EDZs) in the rock surrounding underground caverns based on the monotonically increasing characteristics of the energy dissipation degree‒axial strain relationship curve is proposed, and it allows for the classification of the surrounding rock into five types of zones through quantitative analysis of the RUd thresholds. Based on the criterion for dividing the EDZs of the surrounding rock mass of the underground cavern, the EDZs of the surrounding rocks of the underground cavern group of the Shuangjiangkou Hydropower Station are analyzed. The distribution characteristics of the EDZs of the rock surrounding underground caverns obtained by numerical simulation calculations based on RUd are basically the same as those obtained by in situ elastic wave tests. However, the RUd-based method for classifying the EDZs of the surrounding rock has the obvious advantage of being able to probe the boundaries of the undamaged zone (UDZ) of the surrounding rock more explicitly, while the method based on wave velocity testing is not sufficiently explicit. The damage zoning of the surrounding rock based on RUd can provide support design advice for the excavation of the surrounding rock, such as the support method, the length of the free section and anchor section of the prestressing anchor, etc.

Tracing the history of a heart

Newly developed tools will help researchers understand how the human heart develops and build better models to study and treat congenital heart disease.

MMR gene patterns evaluation provides novel insights for personalized immunotherapy compared to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in lung adenocarcinama

BACKGROUND

The association involving mismatch repair (MMR) genes, molecular subtype and specific immune cell group in tumor microenvironment has been focused by more recent studies. Its prognosis value in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) neoadjuvant chemotherapy remains elusive.

METHODS

The correlation between the MMR gene patterns and the immune landscape were comprehensively evaluated. The MMRScore was calculated using principal component analysis (PCA) after grouping using R/mclust package. The prognostic significance of the MMRScore was evaluated by Kaplan-merrier analysis. Then a cohort of 103 Chinese LUAD patients was collected for neoadjuvant chemotherapy prognosis evaluation and validation using MMRScore.

RESULTS

Four MMRclusters (mc1, 2, 3, 4)-characterized by differences in extent of aneuploidy, expression of immunomodulatory (IM) genes, mRNA expression, lncRNA expression and prognosis were identified. We established MMRscore to quantify the MMR pattern of individual LUAD patients. As is shown in further analyses, the MMRscore was a potential independent prognostic factor of LUAD. Finally, the prognostic value of the MMRscore and its association with tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) of LUAD were verified in Chinese LUAD cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated the correlation between MMR gene pattern, the CNV and tumor immune landscape in LUAD. A MMRcluster mc2 with high MMRscore, high TMB and high CNV subtype was identified with poor prognosis and infiltrating immunocyte. The comprehensive evaluation of MMR patterns in individual LUAD patients enhances the understanding of TIME and gives a new insight toward improved immune treatment strategies for LUAD patients compared to neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

Fully Passive Quantum Key Distribution

We propose a fully passive linear optical quantum key distribution (QKD) source that implements both random decoy-state and encoding choices with postselection only, thus eliminating all side channels in active modulators. Our source is general purpose and can be used in, e.g., BB84, the six-state protocol, and reference-frame-independent QKD. It can even potentially be combined with measurement-device-independent QKD to achieve robustness against side channels in both detectors and modulators. We also perform a proof-of-principle experimental source characterization to show its feasibility.

Metabolic variation and oxidative stress response of blue mussels (Mytilus sp.) perturbed by norfloxacin exposure

Antibiotics are currently widely applied in agricultural cultivation, animal husbandry, and medical treatment, but the effects and ecological risks of antibiotics need to be further investigated. Norfloxacin is one of the most widely applied fluoroquinolone antibiotics and is commonly detected in aquatic ecosystems. In this study, the activities of catalase (CAT) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) in blue mussels (Mytilus sp.) exposed to norfloxacin (from 25 to 200 mg/L) for 2 d of acute exposure and 7 d of subacute exposure were measured. ¹H nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H-NMR)-based metabolomics was applied to identify the metabolites and to investigate the physiological metabolism of blue mussels (Mytilus sp.) under different concentrations of norfloxacin. The activity of the CAT enzyme was induced in acute exposure, while the activity of GST was inhibited in subacute exposure when the concentration of norfloxacin reached 200 mg/L. Orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) revealed that the increased concentrations of norfloxacin might cause greater metabolic differences between the treatment and control groups and cause greater metabolic variation within the same treatment group. The contents of taurine in the 150 mg/L acute exposure group were 5.17 times higher than those in the control group. The pathway analysis indicated that exposure to high concentrations of norfloxacin disturbed different pathways involved in energy metabolism, amino acid metabolism, neuroregulation, and the regulation of osmotic pressure. These results may provide a molecular and metabolic view of the effects of norfloxacin and the regulatory mechanism of blue mussels when exposed to extremely high doses of antibiotics.

The significance of transrectal ultrasound and urologist_dually guided pelvic floor muscle exercise in improving urinary continence after radical prostatectomy

BACKGROUND

To determine whether transrectal ultrasound and urologist_dually guided pelvic floor muscle exercise is associated with immediate, early and long-term urinary continence after radical prostatectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data from 114 patients with localized prostate cancer (PC) who underwent RP at Henan Cancer Hospital from November 2018 to April 2021 were included in the retrospective study. Of the 114 patients, 50 patients in the observation group underwent transrectal ultrasound and urologist_dually guided PFME, and 64 patients in the control group underwent verbally_guided PFME. Contractile function of the external urinary sphincter was in the observation group was evaluated. The immediate, early and long-term urinary continence rates were assessed in both groups, and the factors affecting urinary continence were analyzed.

RESULTS

The urinary continence rate at 2 weeks and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months in the observation group after RP was significantly higher than that in the control group (52.0% vs. 29.7%, 70.0% vs. 39.1%, 82% vs. 57.8, 88% vs. 70.3%, 98.0 vs. 84.4%, p < 0.05). The contractile function of the external urinary sphincter was obviously correlated with urinary continence at multiple visits after RP, except for the 12-month visit. Transrectal ultrasound and urologist-dually guided PFME was verified to be an independent positive factor for urinary continence at 2 weeks and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months using logistic regression analysis. However, TURP was a negative factor for postoperative urinary continence at different times.

CONCLUSIONS

Transrectal ultrasound and urologist_dually guided PFME had a significant role in improving immediate, early and long-term urinary continence after RP and acted as an independent prognostic factor.

LINC01002 Targets miR-650/FLNA Pathway to Suppress Prostate Cancer Progression

INTRODUCTION

In view of the vital implication of long noncoding RNAs in tumorigenesis, we possess the aim to determine the action effects and mechanisms of LINC01002 in prostate cancer (PCa).

METHODS

Expression level of LINC01002, miR-650, or filamin A (FLNA) in PCa tissues and cells was assessed using quantitative real-time PCR or Western blotting. Cell proliferative and migratory capacities were investigated by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and wound healing assays. Cell apoptosis was investigated by the levels of Bax and Bcl-2. Xenograft models were constructed to testify the role of LINC01002 in vivo. The anticipated binding of miR-650 to LINC01002 or FLNA was confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter or RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation assays.

RESULTS

Relatively poor expression of LINC01002 and FLNA, and high expression of miR-650 were identified in PCa tumor specimens and cells. Ectopic LINC01002 expression restrained PCa cell proliferation/migration and provoked apoptosis in vitro, and blocked solid tumor growth in Xenograft models. MiR-650 was directly targeted by LINC01002, and it also directly bound to FLNA. MiR-650 reintroduction in PCa cells overexpressing LINC01002 or FLNA partly reversed the anticancer effects of LINC01002 or FLNA overexpression, thus recovering PCa cell proliferation/migration and repressing apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

LINC01002 deregulation was linked to PCa development. LINC01002 exerted potential anticancer effects in PCa via targeting the miR-650/FLNA pathway, which, at least in part, provided a basis for the involvement of LINC01002 as a therapeutic target in PCa.

Exploring the Inner Workings of Direct Cardiac Reprogramming

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Following cardiac injury, the heart has limited ability to regenerate leading to decreased efficiency and function. Cardiac reprogramming offers a promising treatment to ameliorate the damage caused by ischemia through conversion of cardiac fibroblasts to induced cardiomyocytes (iCMs). Here, we aim to highlight the recent advancements of the last 5 years by discussing the various aspects of cardiac reprogramming including characterization of the cardiac fibroblast, the endogenous environment of the heart, the molecular mechanisms during reprogramming, the epigenetic landscape, and the mechanics of delivering reprogramming factors.

RECENT FINDINGS

Due to generally low efficiency of direct cardiac reprogramming, many researchers have continued to improve the efficiency of iCM induction and continued exploration of the basic science behind the technique. The field is continuing to optimize individual aspects of reprogramming that can be leveraged together to improve overall effectiveness. Over the last several years, knowledge regarding the process of direct cardiac reprogramming and the many factors that affect its efficiency has increased significantly. Individual aspects have continued to be optimized, and it will be essential going forward to synthesize this information. Cardiac reprogramming continues to advance towards clinical translatability.

[Distribution and Drug Sensitivity Analysis of Pathogenic Bacteria Isolated from Patients in Hematology Department]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the distribution and drug sensitivity of pathogenic bacteria isolated from patients in hematology department, in order to provide evidence for rational use of antibiotics in clinic.

METHODS

The distribution of pathogenic bacteria and drug sensitivity data of patients in the hematology department of The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University from 2015 to 2020 were retrospectively analyzed, and the pathogens isolated from different specimen types were compared.

RESULTS

A total of 2 029 strains of pathogenic bacteria were isolated from 1 501 patients in the hematology department from 2015 to 2020, and 62.2% of which were Gram-negative bacilli, mainly Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia and Acinetobacter baumannii. Gram-positive coccus accounted for 18.8%, mainly Coagulase-negative staphylococcus (CoNS) and Staphylococcus aureus. Fungi (17.4%) were mainly candida. The 2 029 strains were mainly isolated from respiratory tract (35.1%), blood (31.8%) and urine (19.2%) specimens. Gram-negative bacilli were the main pathogenic bacteria in different specimen types (>60%). K. pneumoniae, S. maltophilia and A. baumannii were the most common pathogens in respiratory specimens, E. coli, CoNS, K. pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa were common in blood samples, and E. coli and Enterococcus were most common in urine samples. Enterobacteriaceae had the highest susceptibility to amikacin and carbapenems (>90.0%), followed by piperacillin/tazobactam. P. aeruginosa strains had high sensitivity to antibiotics except aztreonam (<50.0%). The susceptibility of A. baumannii to multiple antibiotics was less than 70.0%. The antimicrobial resistance rates of E. coli and K. pneumoniae in respiratory tract specimens were higher than those in blood specimens and urine specimens.

CONCLUSION

Gram-negative bacilli are the main pathogenic bacteria isolated from patients in hematology department. The distribution of pathogens is different in different types of specimens, and the sensitivity of each strain to antibiotics is different. The rational use of antibiotics should be based on different parts of infection to prevent the occurrence of drug resistance.

Effects of altitude and varieties on overwintering adaptability and cold resistance mechanism of alfalfa roots in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau

BACKGROUND

The roots are the main functional organs involved in the overwintering adaptability of alfalfa (Medicago sativa). However, it is still unclear how the roots are involved in the cold resistance in the high-altitude area of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP). In this study, three winter-surviving 2-year-old alfalfa varieties (M. sativa Zhongmeng No.1, M. sativa Chiza No.1, and M. sativa Gongnong No.1) planted at two different altitudes (2812 m and 3109 m) in the northeast edge of the QTP were used to explore the cold-resistance mechanism.

RESULTS

At low altitudes (2812 m), the overwintering rate, taproot length, root area, root surface area, and root average diameter, plant height, fresh yield and hay yield of M. sativa Zhongmeng No.1 were significantly higher (P < 0.01) than for the other two varieties. At high altitude (3109 m), lateral root length, number of lateral roots, main root dry weight, and lateral root dry weight of M. sativa Chiza No.1 were higher (P < 0.01) than the other two varieties. At low and high altitudes, the activities of peroxidase and catalase were higher (P < 0.05) in M. sativa Chiza No.1 during post-winter and pre-winter respectively. At low altitude, higher soluble sugar (P < 0.05) and proline (P < 0.01) contents were recorded during the pre- and post-winter periods. Membership function analysis showed that M. sativa Zhongmeng No.1 has the strongest cold resistance. The structural equation model showed that the overwintering rate of alfalfa was mainly affected by the morphological characteristics of roots and the physiological characteristics of roots, with contribution rates of 0.54 and 0.75 respectively, and the physiological characteristics of roots had the greatest effect on the overwintering rate.

CONCLUSIONS

This study is of great significance to effectively solve the overwintering of alfalfa, the lack of high-quality legume forage resources, and promote the development of animal husbandry in the alpine areas of the QTP. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Optimized protocol for direct cardiac reprogramming in mice using Ascl1 and Mef2c

Direct cardiac reprogramming refers to the conversion of fibroblasts into cardiomyocyte-like cells (iCMs) without going through an intermediate progenitor stage. Here, we present a protocol for direct cardiac reprogramming in mice using Ascl1 and Mef2c. We describe steps for isolating primary neonatal mouse cardiac fibroblast, preparing retrovirus encoding reprogramming factors, and efficient cardiac reprogramming with Ascl1 and Mef2c. The resulting iCMs display cardiomyocyte-like sarcomere structure, gene expression, and calcium flux. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Wang et al. (2022).¹.

Conserved transcription factors promote cell fate stability and restrict reprogramming potential in differentiated cells

Defining the mechanisms safeguarding cell fate identity in differentiated cells is crucial to improve 1) - our understanding of how differentiation is maintained in healthy tissues or altered in a disease state, and 2) - our ability to use cell fate reprogramming for regenerative purposes. Here, using a genome-wide transcription factor screen followed by validation steps in a variety of reprogramming assays (cardiac, neural and iPSC in fibroblasts and endothelial cells), we identified a set of four transcription factors (ATF7IP, JUNB, SP7, and ZNF207 [AJSZ]) that robustly opposes cell fate reprogramming in both lineage and cell type independent manners. Mechanistically, our integrated multi-omics approach (ChIP, ATAC and RNA-seq) revealed that AJSZ oppose cell fate reprogramming by 1) - maintaining chromatin enriched for reprogramming TF motifs in a closed state and 2) - downregulating genes required for reprogramming. Finally, KD of AJSZ in combination with MGT overexpression, significantly reduced scar size and improved heart function by 50%, as compared to MGT alone post-myocardial infarction. Collectively, our study suggests that inhibition of barrier to reprogramming mechanisms represents a promising therapeutic avenue to improve adult organ function post-injury.

A therapeutic role of exosomal lncRNA H19 from adipose mesenchymal stem cells in cutaneous wound healing by triggering macrophage M2 polarization

BACKGROUND

Emerging evidence has figured out that adipose mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) promote wound healing. Exosomes, which act as main paracrine factors and contains various protein, lncRNA, and miRNAs, play a critical role in wound healing. Nevertheless, the mechanism remains to be elucidated. This study aims to identify the underlying mechanism of ADSCs-derived exosome (ADSCs-exos)-mediated wound healing.

METHODS

ADSCs-exos were characterized using the transmission electron microscope, dynamic light scattering, and western blot. ELISA, RT-qPCR, flow cytometry, western blot, CCK-8 assay, transwell assay and tube formation were employed to validate the actions of ADSCs-exos harboring H19 in cell polarization, proliferation, migration and angiogenesis. The regulatory axis among H19, miR-130b-3p and PPARγ or STAT3 was confirmed by RNA pull-down, RIP assay and dual-luciferase reporter assays.

RESULTS

ADSCs-exos harboring H19 promoted macrophage M2 polarization, thereby enhancing fibroblast proliferation, migration and endothelial cell angiogenesis. However, their promotive effects were disrupted within H19 depletion in ADSCs-exos. Additionally, miR-130b-3p, directly targeting PPARγ or STAT3, was identified to be a downstream effector to participate in H19-mediated biological effects. Moreover, ADSCs-exos carrying H19 modulated cutaneous wound healing via H19/miR-130b-3p -mediated macrophage M2 polarization in vivo.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, ADSCs-derived exosomal H19 accelerates cutaneous wound healing via the miR-130b-3p/PPARγ/STAT3 axis, indicating potential therapeutic strategies for the treatment of wound healing.

Psychometric properties of patient-reported outcome measures assessing self-efficacy in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: A systematic review

AIMS

The aim of this study is to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the patient-reported outcome measure assessing self-efficacy in patients with inflammatory bowel disease, and recommend the most robust measurement.

DESIGN

A systematic review of psychometric properties.

DATA SOURCES

We performed systematic electronic searches in the following databases from inception to 26 May 2022: PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and PsycINFO via OVID.

REVIEW METHOD

This review evaluated the tools' quality in accordance with the Selection of Consensus-Based Health Measurement Instruments 2018 system Evaluation guidelines.

RESULTS

Three patient-reported outcome measures were identified in the five included studies. The "IBD-yourself" questionnaire revealed very low evidence for a sufficient hypothesis test for construct validity, moderate evidence for insufficient internal consistency, and very low evidence for uncertain measurement error. Evidence from Inflammatory Bowel Disease Self-Efficacy Scale validated internal consistency, structural validity, criterion validity, and hypothesis test for construct validity. However, evidence of moderate quality corroborated this reliability. The Adolescents and Young Adults Inflammatory Bowel Disease Self-Efficacy Scale demonstrated very low evidence for sufficient internal consistency, moderate evidence for a sufficient hypothesis test for construct and content validity, and very low evidence for uncertain reliability.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with the other two measures, the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Self-Efficacy Scale has higher quality evidence of higher overall ratings for some of its psychometric properties, but there were some methodological problems that must be further studied to determine their quality.

IMPACT

It is uncertain whether a scale to assess self-efficacy in patients with inflammatory bowel disease has good measurement performance in clinical applications. This study first presents the methodological quality and psychometric properties of the self-efficacy scale used to assess patients with inflammatory bowel disease, which is based on the Consensus-Based Health Measurement Instruments standard. This study can help researchers and physicians decide which scale is the most suitable and reliable for patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

NO PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

Because this was a systematic review based on synthesizing information from previous studies, no human participants were included.

DHA-enriched phosphatidylserine alleviates high fat diet-induced jejunum injury in mice by modulating gut microbiota

A long-term high-fat diet (HFD) is one of the high-risk factors for intestinal barrier damage. Docosahexaenoic acid-enriched phosphatidylserine (DHA-PS) has multiple biological activities, while its protective effect on HFD-caused jejunum injury remains unknown. Thus, the present study investigated the protective effect of DHA-PS on HFD-induced jejunum injury in mice. Our results showed that DHA-PS (100 mg per kg per d) could protect against HFD-caused jejunum injury by decreasing the levels of inflammatory factors such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in the serum and jejunum tissues, with histological analysis confirming this injury amelioration. Additionally, DHA-PS alleviated the HFD-caused oxidative stress by decreasing malondialdehyde (MDA) and increasing total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and catalase (CAT) levels in the jejunum. Moreover, DHA-PS significantly increased the expression of tight junction proteins (ZO-1, occludin, and claudin-4) in the jejunum, and modulated the HFD-induced gut microbiota disorder by decreasing the Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes ratio, and reducing the relative abundance of Lachnoclostridium, Coriobacteriaceae, Desulfovibrionaceae, and Helicobacter, while increasing the relative abundance of Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, Alistipes, norank_f__Muribaculaceae, and Bacteroides. Overall, these results support that DHA-PS can alleviate the HFD-caused jejunum injury.

ZipperCells Exhibit Enhanced Accumulation and Retention at the Site of Myocardial Infarction

There has been extensive interest in cellular therapies for the treatment of myocardial infarction, but bottlenecks concerning cellular accumulation and retention remain. Here, a novel system of in situ crosslinking mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for the formation of a living depot at the infarct site is reported. Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells that are surface decorated with heterodimerizing leucine zippers, termed ZipperCells, are engineered. When delivered intravenously in sequential doses, it is demonstrated that ZipperCells can migrate to the infarct site, crosslink, and show ≈500% enhanced accumulation and ≈600% improvement in prolonged retention at 10 days after injection compared to unmodified MSCs. This study introduces an advanced approach to creating noninvasive therapeutics depots using cellular crosslinking and provides the framework for future scaffold-free delivery methods for cardiac repair.