The prognostic significance of POD24 in peripheral T-cell lymphoma

BACKGROUND

Peripheral T-cell lymphomas (PTCL) are an aggressive group of mature T-cell neoplasms, often associated with poor outcomes, in part, due to frequent relapsed/refractory disease. The objective of this study was to assess the prognostic impact of disease progression within 24 months (POD24) on overall survival (OS) for patients diagnosed with PTCL.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on a cohort of patients with newly diagnosed PTCL who underwent chemotherapy at the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University between January 2010 and September 2021. Prognostic assessment was limited to patients who were evaluable for POD24.

RESULTS

Records were reviewed for 106 patients with PTCL, of whom 66 patients experienced POD24 (referred to as the POD24 group) and 40 patients did not experience POD24 (referred to as the no POD24 group). Significant differences were observed between the POD24 group and the no POD24 group in regard to clinical stage, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status (PS), International Prognostic Index (IPI) score, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels, β2-microglobulin (β2-MG) levels, prealbumin and albumin levels. Patients in the POD24 group had a significant shorter median OS compared to the no POD24 group (11.9 months vs not reached, respectively; P < 0.001). Non response (NR) to treatment and POD24 were identified as independent negative prognostic factors for survival in patients with PTCL.

CONCLUSION

POD24 is a prognostic factor associated with unfavorable outcomes in patients with PTCL and can be used to identify high-risk patients and guide treatment decisions.

Development and external validation of a nomogram for the early prediction of acute kidney injury in septic patients: a multicenter retrospective clinical study

Background and purpose: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common serious complication in sepsis patients with a high mortality rate. This study aimed to develop and validate a predictive model for sepsis associated acute kidney injury (SA-AKI). Methods: In our study, we retrospectively constructed a development cohort comprising 733 septic patients admitted to eight Grade-A tertiary hospitals in Shanghai from January 2021 to October 2022. Additionally, we established an external validation cohort consisting of 336 septic patients admitted to our hospital from January 2017 to December 2019. Risk predictors were selected by LASSO regression, and a corresponding nomogram was constructed. We evaluated the model's discrimination, precision and clinical benefit through receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, calibration plots, decision curve analysis (DCA) and clinical impact curves (CIC) in both internal and external validation. Results: AKI incidence was 53.2% in the development cohort and 48.2% in the external validation cohort. The model included five independent indicators: chronic kidney disease stages 1 to 3, blood urea nitrogen, procalcitonin, D-dimer and creatine kinase isoenzyme. The AUC of the model in the development and validation cohorts was 0.914 (95% CI, 0.894-0.934) and 0.923 (95% CI, 0.895-0.952), respectively. The calibration plot, DCA, and CIC demonstrated the model's favorable clinical applicability. Conclusion: We developed and validated a robust nomogram model, which might identify patients at risk of SA-AKI and promising for clinical applications.

Enhanced neuroprotective activity of ophthalmic delivered nerve growth factor conjugated with cell penetrating peptide against optic nerve injury

Aims: Nerve growth factor is a well characterised neurotrophic factor that play a critical role in the survival, growth and differentiation of neurons both in central and peripheral nervous system. However, it is difficult for the conventional exogenous nerve growth factor administration delivery to the central nervous system due to the biological barrier in human bodies.Results: We validated a series of cell penetrating peptides and found that L-PenetraMax significantly enhanced the efficiency of recombinant human nerve growth factor entry into the rat retina. In the optic nerve crush mice model, eye drop administration of recombinant human nerve growth factor alone promoted retinal ganglion cell survival and axon regeneration at high dose, while the combination of recombinant human nerve growth factor with L-PenetraMax significantly enhanced the neuroprotective efficacy at lower dose, thus potentially enhancing the availability of recombinant human nerve growth factor eye drops in patients with optic neuropathy.Conclusions: This study provides the evidence that the noncovalent coadministration of recombinant human nerve growth factor with L-PenetraMax could be a potent strategy for the non-invasive and sustained ocular delivery of therapeutic proteins for improving the optic nerve injury.

Human monoclonal antibody F61 nasal spray effectively protected high-risk populations from SARS-CoV-2 variants during the COVID-19 pandemic from late 2022 to early 2023 in China

Following the national dynamic zero-COVID strategy adjustment, the utilization of broad-spectrum nasal neutralizing antibodies may offer an alternative approach to controlling the outbreak of Omicron variants between late 2022 and early 2023 in China. This study involved an investigator-initiated trial (IIT) to assess the pharmacokinetic, safety and efficacy of the F61 nasal spray. A total of 2,008 participants were randomly assigned to receive F61 nasal spray (24 mg/0.8 mL/dose) or normal saline (0.8 mL/dose) and 1336 completed the follow-up in the IIT. Minimal absorption of F61 antibody into the bloodstream was detected in individuals receiving F61 nasal spray for seven consecutive days. No treatment-emergent adverse reactions of grade 3 severity or higher were reported. In the one-dose cohort, the 7-day cumulative SARS-CoV-2 infection rate was 79.0% in the F61 group and 82.6% in the placebo group, whereas, in the multiple-dose (once daily for 7 consecutive days) cohort, the rates were 6.55% in the F61 group and 23.83% in the placebo group. The laboratory-confirmed efficacy of F61 was 3.78% (-3.74%-10.75%) in the one-dose cohort and 72.19% (57.33%-81.87%) in the multiple-dose cohort. In the real-world study, 60,225 volunteers in four different regions were administered the F61 nasal spray based on the subject's wishes, over 90% efficacy rate was observed against different Omicron variants. The F61 nasal spray, with its favourable safety profile, could be a promising prophylactic monoclonal antibody against SARS-CoV-2 VOCs.

Shenxiang Suhe pill improves cardiac function through modulating gut microbiota and serum metabolites in rats after acute myocardial infarction

CONTEXT

Shenxiang Suhe pill (SXSH), a traditional Chinese medicine, is clinically effective against coronary heart disease, but the mechanism of cardiac-protective function is unclear.

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the cardiac-protective mechanism of SXSH via modulating gut microbiota and metabolite profiles.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sprague-Dawley (SD) male rats were randomly divided into 6 groups (n = 8): Sham, Model, SXSH (Low, 0.063 g/kg; Medium, 0.126 g/kg; High, 0.252 g/kg), and Ato (atorvastatin, 20 mg/kg). Besides the Sham group, rats were modelled with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) by ligating the anterior descending branch of the left coronary artery (LAD). After 3, 7, 14 days' administration, ultrasound, H&E staining, serum enzymic assay, 16S rRNA sequencing were conducted to investigate the SXSH efficacy. Afterwards, five groups of rats: Sham, Model, Model-ABX (AMI with antibiotics-feeding), SXSH (0.126 g/kg), SXSH-ABX were administrated for 14 days to evaluate the gut microbiota-dependent SXSH efficacy, and serum untargeted metabolomics test was performed.

RESULTS

0.126 g/kg of SXSH intervention for 14 days increased ejection fraction (EF, 78.22%), fractional shortening (FS, 109.07%), and aortic valve flow velocities (AV, 21.62%), reduced lesion area, and decreased serum LDH (8.49%) and CK-MB (10.79%). Meanwhile, SXSH upregulated the abundance of Muribaculaceae (199.71%), Allobaculum (1744.09%), and downregulated Lactobacillus (65.51%). The cardiac-protective effect of SXSH was disrupted by antibiotics administration. SXSH altered serum metabolites levels, such as downregulation of 2-n-tetrahydrothiophenecarboxylic acid (THTC, 1.73%), and lysophosphatidylcholine (lysoPC, 4.61%).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

The cardiac-protective effect and suggested mechanism of SXSH could provide a theoretical basis for expanding its application in clinic.

Associations of nirmatrelvir-ritonavir treatment with death and clinical improvement in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 during the Omicron wave in Beijing, China: a multicentre, retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

The effectiveness of nirmatrelvir-ritonavir has mainly been shown in non-hospitalized patients with mild-to-moderate coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The real-world effectiveness of nirmatrelvir-ritonavir urgently needs to be determined using representative in-hospital patients with COVID-19 during the Omicron wave of the pandemic.

METHODS

We performed a multicentre, retrospective study in five Chinese PLA General Hospital medical centers in Beijing, China. Patients hospitalized with COVID-19 from 10 December 2022 to 20 February 2023 were eligible for inclusion. A 1:1 propensity score matching was performed between the nirmatrelvir-ritonavir group and the control group.

RESULTS

1010 recipients of nirmatrelvir-ritonavir and 1010 matched controls were finally analyzed after matching. Compared with matched controls, the nirmatrelvir-ritonavir group had a lower incidence rate of all-cause death (4.6/1000 vs. 6.3/1000 person-days, p = 0.013) and a higher incidence rate of clinical improvement (47.6/1000 vs. 45.8/1000 person-days, p = 0.012). Nirmatrelvir-ritonavir was associated with a 22% lower all-cause mortality and a 14% higher incidence of clinical improvement. Initiation of nirmatrelvir-ritonavir within 5 days after symptom onset was associated with a 50% lower mortality and a 26% higher clinical improvement rate. By contrast, no significant associations were identified among patients receiving nirmatrelvir-ritonavir treatment more than 5 days after symptom onset. Nirmatrelvir-ritonavir was also associated with a 50% increase in survival days and a 12% decrease in days to clinical improvement.

CONCLUSION

Among hospitalized patients with COVID-19 during the Omicron wave in Beijing, China, the early initiation of nirmatrelvir-ritonavir was associated with clinical benefits of lowering mortality and improving clinical recovery.

Solubilization of fish myofibrillar proteins in NaCl and KCl solutions: A DIA-based proteomics analysis

Understanding the basic solubilization of fish myofibrillar proteins (MPs) in common monovalent chloride solutions is crucial for muscle food processing. In this study, the differential proteomic profiles of MPs during extraction and solubilization in NaCl and KCl solutions were investigated by using advanced four-dimensional data-independent acquisition (4D DIA) quantitative proteomics for the first time. Compared to routine biochemical analysis, this could provide insights into the solubilization of muscle proteins. We ensure the consistency of the effective ionic strength of NaCl and KCl buffers by adjusting the conductivity. The results showed that NaCl extractor mainly facilitated the solubilization of cytoskeletal proteins, biochemical enzymes, and stromal proteins compared to KCl, such as tubulin, myosin-9, collagen, plectin, protein phosphatase, and cathepsin D. However, no significant difference was observed in the extraction of major sarcomeric proteins, including myosin, actin, troponin C, myosin-binding protein C, M-Protein, α-actinin-3, and tropomyosin.

Unraveling the binding mechanisms of transglutaminase and substrate subjected to microwaves: Molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulations

Previous studies showed that transglutaminase (TGase) and microwaves acted synergistically to improve the functional properties of proteins. The mechanism behind this has yet to be elucidated. In this study, the phenomenon of microwaves enhancing TGase activity was experimentally validated. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations revealed that moderate microwaves (105 and 108 V/m) increased the structural flexibility of TGase and promoted the orientation of the side chain carboxylate anion group on Asp255, driving the reaction forward. Also, TGase underwent partial transformation from α-helix to turns or coils at 105 and 108 V/m, exposing more residues in the active site and facilitating the binding of the substrate (CBZ-Gln-Gly) to TGase. However, 109 V/m microwaves completely destroyed the TGase structure, inactivating the enzyme. This study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the interactions between TGase and substrate subjected to microwaves, promoting the future applications of TGase and microwaves in food processing.

Free-standing and flexible polyvinyl alcohol-sodium alginate-polypyrrole electrodes based on interpenetrating network hydrogels

Flexible supercapacitors (FSCs) have attracted much attention due to their strong mechanical flexibility, wearability and portability, which greatly rely on the employed flexible electrodes. The conductive polymer hydrogels with excellent flexibility, processability and capacitive performance are one of the most promising candidates, which are still limited by their poor mechanical properties. Constructing robust interpenetrating polymer networks (IPN) is an effective approach to promote their mechanical properties. Herein, interpenetrating polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-sodium alginate (SA)-polypyrrole (PPy) hydrogels are prepared by the freeze-thaw and in-situ polymerization method. The IPN structure composed of PVA and SA not only enhances the mechanical properties of hydrogels, but also provides substantial active sites for electrochemical reactions. Moreover, the hydrogen-bonding interaction between different components in the PVA-SA-PPy hydrogel boosts the charge/ion transfer. The optimal PVA-SA-PPy hydrogels show an elongation at break of 380 %, a tensile strength of 1.5 MPa, and a specific capacitance of 2646 mF cm-2 at 2 mA cm-2. The symmetric PVA-SA-PPy FSCs show an energy density of 96.7 μWh cm-2 at a power density of 999.9 μW cm-2, and the capacitance retention is 66.3 % after 10,000 cycles. These exceptional mechanical and electrochemical properties make the PVA-SA-PPy hydrogels a promising candidate for FSCs.

An observational study of symmetrical VSD occluder for transcatheter closure of ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm

This study evaluated the immediate and 1-year postoperative outcomes of 14 patients with ruptured Valsalva aneurysmal sinus (RSVA) using symmetric ventricular septal defect (VSD) occluder for transcatheter closure (TCC). The sites of rupture were from the non-coronary sinus to the right atrium (RA) in 10 cases (71.4%), the right coronary sinus (RCS) to the RA in 3 cases (21.4%) and the RCS to the right ventricle in 1 case (7.2%). The defects (5-11 mm) were closed with a symmetrical VSD device. During the follow-up (12 months), the enlarged heart of the patients had significantly shrunk and the NYHA improved after closure. In 1 case, a moderate residual shunt was present and the patient suffered from hemolysis at 2 h after the operation, and 1 patient was transferred to surgery for aortic regurgitation 1 year after the initial treatment of RSVA. In conclusion, the TCC of RSVA with the China made symmetrical VSD occluder is safe and effective.

Combination of disulfiram and Copper-Cysteamine nanoparticles induces mitochondria damage and promotes apoptosis in endometrial cancer

Endometrial cancer (EC) stands as one of the most prevalent gynecological malignancies affecting women, with its incidence and disease-related mortality steadily on the rise. Disulfiram (DSF), an FDA-approved medication primarily used for treating alcohol addiction, has exhibited promising anti-tumor properties. Studies have revealed DSF's capacity for enhanced anti-tumor activity, particularly when combined with copper. The novel Copper-Cysteamine (CuCy) compound, Cu3Cl(SR)2 (R[bond, double bond]CH2CH2NH2), showcases photodynamic effects and demonstrates significant anti-tumor potential under various conditions, including exposure to ultraviolet light, X-ray, microwave, and ultrasound. This study delves into exploring the synergistic anti-tumor effects and underlying mechanisms by utilizing copper-cysteamine in conjunction with DSF against endometrial cancer. The investigation involved comprehensive analyses encompassing in vitro experiments utilizing Ishikawa cells, in vivo studies, and transcriptomic analyses. Remarkably, the combined administration of both compounds at a low dose of 0.5 μM exhibited pronounced efficacy in impeding tumor growth, inhibiting blood vessel formation, and stimulating cell apoptosis. Notably, experiments involving transplanted tumors in nude mice vividly demonstrated the significant in vivo anti-tumor effects of this combination treatment. Detailed examination through transmission electron microscopy unveiled compelling evidence of mitochondrial damage, cellular swelling, and rupture, indicative of apoptotic changes in morphology due to the combined treatment. Moreover, transcriptomic analysis unveiled substantial downregulation of mitochondrial-related genes at the molecular level, coupled with a significant hindrance in the DNA repair pathway. These findings strongly suggest that the combined application of CuCy and DSF induces mitochondrial impairment in Ishikawa cells, thereby fostering apoptosis and ultimately yielding potent anti-tumor effects.

Survey data on customer two-stage decision-making process in household vacuum cleaner market

This paper presents the data collection method and introduces the dataset about consumers' consider-then-choose behaviors in the household vacuum cleaner market. First, we designed a questionnaire that collected participants' consideration and choice data, social network data, demographic information, and preferences for product features. In addition, we obtained data on vacuum cleaner product features through web scraping from online shopping websites. After data cleaning and processing, the resulting dataset enables investigation into customer preferences in two stages, namely the consideration and choice stages and the impact of social influence on the two-stage decision-making process. This dataset is unique as it is the first of its kind to collect both customers' revealed preferences in a two-stage decision-making process and their ego social networks. This enables the modeling of customer preferences while accounting for social influence. The published survey questionnaire can be used as a template to collect data on other products in support of customer preferences modeling and the design for market systems.

Pt/NiFe-LDH hybrids for quantification and qualification of polyphenols

Polyphenols with antioxidant properties are of significant interest in medical and pharmaceutical applications. Given the diverse range of activities of polyphenols in vivo, accurate detection of these compounds plays a crucial role in nutritional surveillance and pharmaceutical development. Yet, the efficient quantitation of polyphenol contents and qualification of monomer compositions present a notable challenge when studying polyphenol bioavailability. In this study, platinum-modified nickel-iron layered double hydroxide (Pt/NiFe-LDH hybrids) were designed to mimic peroxidases for colorimetric analysis and act as enhanced matrices for laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (LDI MS) to quantify and qualify polyphenols. The hybrids exhibited an enzymatic activity of 33.472 U/mg for colorimetric assays, facilitating the rapid and direct quantitation of total tea polyphenols within approximately 1 min. Additionally, the heterogeneous structure and exposed hydroxyl groups on the hybrid surface contributed to photoelectric enhancement and in-situ enrichment of polyphenols in LDI MS. This study introduces an innovative approach to detect polyphenols using advanced materials, potentially inspiring the future development and applications of other photoactive nanomaterials.

Novelty-retrieval-extinction paradigm to decrease high-intensity fear memory recurrence

BACKGROUND

The retrieval-extinction paradigm based on memory reconsolidation can prevent fear memory recurrence more effectively than the extinction paradigm. High-intensity fear memories tend to resist reconsolidation. Novelty-retrieval-extinction can promote the reconsolidation of fear memory lacking neuroplasticity in rodents; however, whether it could effectively promote high-intensity fear memory reconsolidation in humans remains unclear.

METHODS

Using 120 human participants, we implemented the use of the environment (novel vs. familiar) with the help of virtual reality technology. Novelty environment exploration was combined with retrieval-extinction in fear memory of two intensity levels (normal vs. high) to examine whether novelty facilitates the reconsolidation of high-intensity fear memory and prevents recurrence. Skin conductance responses were used to clarify novelty-retrieval-extinction effects at the behavioral level across three experiments.

RESULTS

Retrieval-extinction could prevent the reinstatement of normal-intensity fear memory; however, for high-intensity fear memory, only the novelty-retrieval-extinction could prevent recurrence; we further validated that novelty-retrieval-extinction may be effective only when the environment is novel.

LIMITATIONS

Although the high-intensity fear memory is higher than normal-intensity in this study, it may be insufficient relative to fear experienced in real-world contexts or by individuals with mental disorders.

CONCLUSIONS

To some extent, these findings indicate that the novelty-retrieval-extinction paradigm could prevent the recurrence of high-intensity fear memory, and we infer that novelty of environment may play an important role in novelty-retrieval-extinction paradigm. The results of this study have positive implications for the existing retrieval extinction paradigm and the clinical treatment of phobia.

N-nitrosamines in electroplating and printing/dyeing industrial wastewater treatment plants: Removal efficiency, environmental emission, and the influence on drinking water

The discharge of industrial wastewater containing high concentrations of N-nitrosamines to the aquatic environment can impair downstream source waters and pose potential risks to human health. However, the transport and fate of N-nitrosamines in typical industrial wastewater treatment plants (IWWTPs) and the influence of these effluents on source water and drinking water are still unclear. This study investigated nine N-nitrosamines in four full-scale electroplating (E-) and printing/dyeing (PD-) IWWTPs, two drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs) in the lower reaches of these IWWTPs, and the corresponding tap water in South China. The total concentrations of N-nitrosamines (∑NAs) were 382-10,600, 480-1920, 494-789, and 27.9-427 ng/L in influents, effluents, source water, and tap water, respectively. The compositions of N-nitrosamine species in different influents varied a lot, while N-nitrosodi-n-butylamine (NDBA) and N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) dominated in most of the effluents, source water, and tap water. More than 70 % N-nitrosamines were removed by wastewater treatment processes used in E-IWWTPs such as ferric-carbon micro-electrolysis (Fe/C-ME), while only about 50 % of N-nitrosamines were removed in PD-IWWTPs due to the use of chlorine reagent or other inefficient conventional processes such as flocculation by cationic amine-based polymers or bio-contact oxidation. Therefore, the mass fluxes of N-nitrosamines discharged from these industrial wastewaters to the environment in the selected two industrial towns were up to 14,700 mg/day. The results based on correlation and principal component analysis significantly demonstrated correlations between E-and PD-effluents and source water and tap water, suggesting that these effluents can serve as sources of N-nitrosamines to local drinking water systems. This study suggests that N-nitrosamines are prevalent in typical IWWTPs, which may infect drinking water systems. The findings of this study provide a basis data for the scientific evaluation of environmental processes of N-nitrosamines.

Rapid discrimination of quality grade of black tea based on near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), electronic nose (E-nose) and data fusion

For the manufacturing and sale of tea, rapid discrimination of overall quality grade is of great importance. However, present evaluation methods are time-consuming and labor-intensive. This study investigated the feasibility of combining advantages of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and electronic nose (E-nose) to assess the tea quality. We found that NIRS and E-nose models effectively identify taste and aroma quality grades, with the highest accuracies of 99.63% and 97.00%, respectively, by comparing different principal component numbers and classification algorithms. Additionally, the quantitative models based on NIRS predicted the contents of key substances. Based on this, NIRS and E-nose data were fused in the feature-level to build the overall quality evaluation model, achieving accuracies of 98.13%, 96.63% and 97.75% by support vector machine, K-nearest neighbors, and artificial neural network, respectively. This study reveals that the integration of NIRS and E-nose presents a novel and effective approach for rapidly identifying tea quality.

Fabrication of six-atom Pd clusters regulated with different short ligands and their surface structure-dependent catalytic activities

As model catalysts, it is necessary to study the relationship between the structure and properties of ultra-small metal nanoclusters (MNCs) and to reduce their steric hindrance as much as possible, e.g. preparing ultrasmall MNCs protected by ultra-short ligands. However, it is challenging to attain various MNCs with the same cores but different surface stabilizing ligands. Additionally, shortening the chains of protecting ligands will lead to larger MNC cores. Here, four different Pd NCs (Pd6(SC4H9)12, Pd6(SC8H17)12, Pd6(SC6(C2)H17)12 and Pd6(SC6H13)12) were successfully synthesized by a slow synthesis process. All these clusters consist of six Pd atoms and are stabilized by 12 thiols with different chain lengths and steric hindrance. The catalytic properties of the as-prepared Pd6 NCs were evaluated using the catalytic reduction of p-nitroaniline to p-phenylenediamine as a model reaction. The outcomes indicated that shortening the chain length of the protecting thiols could enhance the catalytic activity of the Pd6 NCs. Notably, stable and active ultra-small Pd6 clusters stabilized by ultra-short ligands (HSC4H9) were successfully synthesized. Although the performance of Pd6(SC4H9)12 clusters protected by the ultra-short thiols is lower than that of commercial palladium on carbon (Pd/C), they display higher stability. Interestingly, the activity of Pd6 NCs protected by ethyl-branched alkane thiols is also better than that of Pd6 NCs protected by the alkane thiol ligands with the same chain length or the same number of carbon numbers. This work provides clear evidence that the catalytic activity of atomically precise MNCs can be controlled by regulating the surface stabilizing ligands.

An optimized non-T cell transfection system based on HEK293FT cells for CD3ζ phosphorylation and ubiquitination

CD3ζ is part of the T cell receptor (TCR)/CD3 complex that plays a critical role in antigen recognition and subsequent T cell activation. Understanding the mechanisms that regulate CD3ζ can provide new insights into the T cell-mediated immune responses. However, it is challenging to deliver exogenous genes into T cells for functional and mechanistic analyses. To this end, we established a non-T cell transfection system based on HEK293FT cells to screen for candidate regulatory proteins. The transfection was optimized using relatively high confluent cultures and the transfection reagent PolyJet™. Pervanadate (PV) treatment sustained tyrosine phosphorylation of CD3ζ, and facilitated the subsequent activation-dependent ubiquitination by E3 ligase Cbl-b in the HEK293FT system. Lck and Zap70 kinases enhanced the levels of phosphorylated CD3ζ in the presence of PV. We compared the effects of E3 ligases and the corresponding adaptor proteins on activation-dependent ubiquitination of CD3ζ in the PV-stimulated cells, and found that Cbl-b was most effective. Taken together, we have demonstrated that a non-T cell transfection system based on PV-treated HEK293FT cells could effectively mimic CD3ζ phosphorylation and ubiquitination and is a promising model for studying the role of CD3ζ signaling in T cell activation.

Structural identification and antioxidant activity of trans-9, trans-11, cis-15-conjugated linolenic acid converted by probiotics

The study aimed to determine the chemical structures of octadecatrienoic acid isomers produced by probiotics through the bioconversion of α-linolenic acid and to assess their antioxidant capacities. The chemical structures were identified using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) and mass spectrometry (MS), while the antioxidant capacities were evaluated in vitro and in cellular. The NMR signals obtained allowed for definitive characterization, with the main ion fragments detected being m/z 58.0062, 59.0140, 71.0141, 113.0616, 127.0777, and 181.5833. Compounds at concentrations below 40 μM maintained the antioxidant capacity of HepG2 cells by protecting endogenous antioxidative enzymes and mitochondrial membrane potential. However, doses higher than 40 μM increase oxidative damage and mitochondrial dysfunction. These results confirmed the structure of the probiotic-derived compound as trans9, trans11, cis15-conjugated linolenic acid. Additionally, appropriate doses of CLNA can alleviate oxidative stress induced by AAPH, while high doses aggravate cellular damage. These findings provide foundational information for the further exploration of probiotic-derived edible lipids.

Polyphenol nanoparticles based on bioresponse for the delivery of anthocyanins

Anthocyanin (AN) has good antioxidant and anti-inflammatory bioactivities, but its poor biocompatibility and low stability limit the application of AN in the food industry. In this study, core-shell structured carriers were constructed by noncovalent interaction using tannic acid (TA) and poloxamer 188 (F68) to improve the biocompatibility, stability and smart response of AN. Under different treatment conditions, TA-F68 and AN were mainly bound by hydrophobic interaction. The PDI is less than 0.1, and the particle size of nanoparticles (NPs) is uniform and concentrated. The retention of the complex was 15.50 % higher than that of AN alone after 9 d of light treatment. After heat treatment for 180 min, the retention rate after loading was 13.87 % higher than that of AN alone. The carrier reduce the damage of AN by the digestive environment, and intelligently and sustainedly release AN when the esterase is highly expressed. In vitro studies demonstrated that the nanocarriers had good biocompatibility and significantly inhibited the overproduction of reactive oxygen species induced by oxidative stress. In addition, AN-TA-F68 has great potential for free radical scavenging at sites of inflammation. In conclusion, the constructed nano-delivery system provides a potential application for oral ingestion of bioactive substances for intervention in ulcerative colitis.

Repeat corneal transplantation in Southern China: Indications, surgical technique, outcomes, and risk factors for repeat keratoplasty failure

PURPOSE

To report the indications, surgical techniques, and outcomes of repeat keratoplasty and evaluate the risk factors for graft failure in the Chinese population.

METHODS

The medical records of 216 patients (243 cases) who underwent at least two keratoplasties at a leading eye hospital in southern China between 2011 and 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Indications and surgical procedures for repeat corneal transplantation were analyzed. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used to determine the graft survival rate after repeat keratoplasty. A multivariable survival model was used to assess the risk factors.

RESULTS

Repeated keratoplasties increased continuously from 2011 to 2020 (P = 0.002). The most common primary indication was infectious keratitis (38.7%), and the most common reason for repeat keratoplasty was graft rejection (30.04%). Regraft techniques included penetrating keratoplasty (PK) in 165 cases (67.9%), deep lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) in 52 cases (21.40%), and endothelial keratoplasty (EK) in 26 cases (10.7%). Median survival was 5.3, 6.8, and 6.4 years for PK, DALK, and EK, respectively. The 5-year survival rate was 53.5%, 66.6%, and 69.8% for PK, DALK, and EK, respectively. The median LogMAR visual acuity was 1.4 for PK, 0.75 for DALK, and 1.2 for EK at the end of the follow-up. Multivariate analysis revealed that graft rejection is a risk factor for repeat keratoplasty failure (P = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

DALK and EK may provide better outcomes than PK in treating graft failure. Preventing and treating postoperative graft rejection may be key to improving regraft survival. These findings will aid in the management of failed corneal grafts.

Network-based analysis identifies potential therapeutic ingredients of Chinese medicines and their mechanisms toward lung cancer

Lung cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors around the world, which has the highest mortality rate among all cancers. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has attracted increased attention in the field of lung cancer treatment. However, the abundance of ingredients in Chinese medicines presents a challenge in identifying promising ingredient candidates and exploring their mechanisms for lung cancer treatment. In this work, two network-based algorithms were combined to calculate the network relationships between ingredient targets and lung cancer targets in the human interactome. Based on the enrichment analysis of the constructed disease module, key targets of lung cancer were identified. In addition, molecular docking and enrichment analysis of the overlapping targets between lung cancer and ingredients were performed to investigate the potential mechanisms of ingredient candidates against lung cancer. Ten potential ingredients against lung cancer were identified and they may have similar effect on the development of lung cancer. The results obtained from this study offered valuable insights and provided potential avenues for the development of novel drugs aimed at treating lung cancer.

CrossFormer++: A Versatile Vision Transformer Hinging on Cross-Scale Attention

While features of different scales are perceptually important to visual inputs, existing vision transformers do not yet take advantage of them explicitly. To this end, we first propose a cross-scale vision transformer, CrossFormer. It introduces a cross-scale embedding layer (CEL) and a long-short distance attention (LSDA). On the one hand, CEL blends each token with multiple patches of different scales, providing the self-attention module itself with cross-scale features. On the other hand, LSDA splits the self-attention module into a short-distance one and a long-distance counterpart, which not only reduces the computational burden but also keeps both small-scale and large-scale features in the tokens. Moreover, through experiments on CrossFormer, we observe another two issues that affect vision transformers' performance, i.e., the enlarging self-attention maps and amplitude explosion. Thus, we further propose a progressive group size (PGS) paradigm and an amplitude cooling layer (ACL) to alleviate the two issues, respectively. The CrossFormer incorporating with PGS and ACL is called CrossFormer++. Extensive experiments show that CrossFormer++ outperforms the other vision transformers on image classification, object detection, instance segmentation, and semantic segmentation tasks.

Huanglian-banxia promotes gastric motility of diabetic rats by modulating brain-gut neurotransmitters through MAPK signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Gastric motility disorder is an increasingly common problem among people with diabetes. Neurotransmitters have been recognized as critical regulators in the process of gastric motility. Previous study has shown that herb pair huanglian-banxia (HL-BX) can improve gastric motility, but the underlying mechanism is still unclear. The aim of this study was to further investigate the role of HL-BX in modulating brain-gut neurotransmission to promote gastric motility in diabetic rats, and to explore its possible mechanism.

METHODS

The diabetic rats were divided into five groups. Gastric emptying rate, intestinal propulsion rate, body weight, and average food intake were determined. Substance P (SP), 5- hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), and glucagon-like peptide -1 (GLP-1) in the serum were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Dopamine (DA) and norepinephrine (NE) in the brain were analyzed by high-pressure liquid chromatography with a fluorescence detector. Protein expression of the tissues in the stomach and brain was determined by Western blot.

KEY RESULTS

HL-BX reduced average food intake significantly, increased body weight, and improved gastric emptying rate and intestinal propulsion rate. HL-BX administration caused a significant increase in SP, GLP-1, and 5-HT, but a significant decrease in DA and NE. Interestingly, HL-BX regulated simultaneously the different expressions of MAPK and its downstream p70S6K/S6 signaling pathway in the stomach and brain. Moreover, berberine exhibited a similar effect to HL-BX.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicated that HL-BX promoted gastric motility by regulating brain-gut neurotransmitters through the MAPK signaling pathway. HL-BX and MAPK provide a potential therapeutic option for the treatment of gastroparesis.

Response of tree growth to nutrient addition is size dependent in a subtropical forest

Understanding how nutrient addition affects the tree growth is critical for assessing forest ecosystem function and processes, especially in the context of increased nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) deposition. Subtropical forests are often considered N-rich and P-poor ecosystems, but few existing studies follow the traditional "P limitation" paradigm, possibly due to differences in nutrient requirements among trees of different size classes. We conducted a three-year fertilization experiment with four treatments (Control, N-treatment, P-treatment, and NP-treatment). We measured soil nutrient availability, leaf stoichiometry, and relative growth rate (RGR) of trees across three size classes (small, medium and large) in 64 plots. We found that N and NP-treatments increased the RGR of large trees. P-treatment increased the RGR of small trees. RGR was mainly affected by N addition, the total effect of P addition was only 10 % of that of N addition. The effect of nutrient addition on RGR was mainly regulated by leaf stoichiometry. This study reveals that nutrient limitation is size dependent, indicating that continuous unbalanced N and P deposition will inhibit the growth of small trees and increase the instability of subtropical forest stand structure, but may improve the carbon sink function of large trees.

Corticosteroid in IgA nephropathy with moderate proteinuria: A retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Corticosteroids remain contentious as a therapeutic option for IgA nephropathy. We conducted a retrospective cohort study to explore whether corticosteroid therapy is efficient and safe for IgAN patients with moderate proteinuria.

METHODS

A total of 336 patients with renal biopsy-confirmed IgAN, estimated glomerular filtration (eGFR) over 15 mL/min/1.73 m2 and urine protein levels of 0.75-3.5 g/d were enrolled. According to the treatment protocol, we classified the enrolled patients into two groups: one receiving corticosteroids and the other receiving supportive care. Complete remission, partial remission, and no remission were applied to describe the efficacy assessments. The endpoint was defined as a 40% reduction in eGFR, the onset of ESRD, or renal disease-related death.

RESULTS

Clinical and pathological progression risk factors were higher in corticosteroid-treated individuals. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the corticosteroid group was considerably related to a higher remission rate after adjustment for confounding factors. The occurrence of serious adverse events between the two groups was not found to be statistically significantly different. Then, we matched 95 couples of patients with similar baseline levels in both groups by propensity score matching. The results showed that corticosteroid-treated patients showed higher overall and complete remission rates than untreated patients. However, due to the relatively short follow-up period, no significant differences in the incidence of endpoint and survival analyses have been observed thus far.

CONCLUSION

Corticosteroid therapy may benefit IgAN patients with moderate proteinuria via proteinuria reduction and renal function preservation.

Iron/ROS/Itga3 mediated accelerated depletion of hippocampal neural stem cell pool contributes to cognitive impairment after hemorrhagic stroke

Hemorrhagic stroke, specifically intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), has been implicated in the development of persistent cognitive impairment, significantly compromising the quality of life for affected individuals. Nevertheless, the precise underlying mechanism remains elusive. Here, we report for the first time that the accumulation of iron within the hippocampus, distal to the site of ICH in the striatum, is causally linked to the observed cognitive impairment with both clinical patient data and animal model. Both susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) and quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) demonstrated significant iron accumulation in the hippocampus of ICH patients, which is far from the actual hematoma. Logistical regression analysis and multiple linear regression analysis identified iron level as an independent risk factor with a negative correlation with post-ICH cognitive impairment. Using a mouse model of ICH, we demonstrated that iron accumulation triggers an excessive activation of neural stem cells (NSCs). This overactivation subsequently leads to the depletion of the NSC pool, diminished neurogenesis, and the onset of progressive cognitive dysfunction. Mechanistically, iron accumulation elevated the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which downregulated the expression of Itga3. Notably, pharmacological chelation of iron accumulation or scavenger of aberrant ROS levels, as well as conditionally overexpressed Itga3 in NSCs, remarkably attenuated the exhaustion of NSC pool, abnormal neurogenesis and cognitive decline in the mouse model of ICH. Together, these results provide molecular insights into ICH-induced cognitive impairment, shedding light on the value of maintaining NSC pool in preventing cognitive dysfunction in patients with hemorrhagic stroke or related conditions.

Machine learning-based predictive model for abdominal diseases using physical examination datasets

Abdominal ultrasound is a key non-invasive imaging method for diagnosing liver, kidney, and gallbladder diseases, despite its clinical significance, not all individuals can undergo abdominal ultrasonography during routine health check-ups due to limitations in equipment, cost, and time. This study aims to use basic physical examination data to predict the risk of diseases of the liver, kidney, and gallbladder that can be diagnosed via abdominal ultrasound. Basic physical examination data contain gender, age, height, weight, BMI, pulse, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), total cholesterol, triglycerides, fasting blood glucose (FBG), and uric acid-we established seven single-label predictive models and one multi-label predictive model. These models were specifically designed to predict a range of abdominal diseases. The single-label models, utilizing the XGBoost algorithm, targeted diseases such as fatty liver (with an Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.9344), liver deposits (AUC: 0.8221), liver cysts (AUC: 0.7928), gallbladder polyps (AUC: 0.7508), kidney stones (AUC: 0.7853), kidney cysts (AUC: 0.8241), and kidney crystals (AUC: 0.7536). Furthermore, a comprehensive multi-label model, capable of predicting multiple conditions simultaneously, was established by FCN and achieved an AUC of 0.6344. We conducted interpretability analysis on these models to enhance their understanding and applicability in clinical settings. The insights gained from this analysis are crucial for the development of targeted disease prevention strategies. This study represents a significant advancement in utilizing physical examination data to predict ultrasound results, offering a novel approach to early diagnosis and prevention of abdominal diseases.

Acetylated pelargonidin-3-O-glucoside alleviates hepatocyte lipid deposition through activating the AMPK-mediated lysosome-autophagy pathway and redox state

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a worldwide public health issue, but a widely accepted therapy is still lacking until now. Anthocyanins are natural flavonoid compounds that possess various bioactivities, but their applications are limited due to their low bioavailability and stability. Acylated anthocyanins are reported to show higher stability, whereas their effects on NAFLD are still unclear. Herein, pelargonidin-3-O-(6''-acetyl)-glucoside (Ace Pg3G) was found to dose-dependently reduce intracellular lipid droplets and triglycerides, and improve cellular oxidative stress that accompanied lipid deposition. Besides, Ace Pg3G was proved to activate AMPK phosphorylation, thus stimulating AMPK-mediated lysosome-autophagy pathway to eliminate overloaded lipid. Further study unveiled that Ace Pg3G regulated genes related to lipid metabolism downstream of AMPK to inhibit lipid synthesis and accelerate lipid oxidation. Overall, this study provided the first evidence, to our best knowledge, that Ace Pg3G ameliorated free fatty acid-induced lipid deposition in hepatocytes through regulating AMPK-mediated autophagy pathways and redox state.

Advances, challenges, and opportunities for food safety analysis in the isothermal nucleic acid amplification/CRISPR-Cas12a era

Global food safety stands out as a prominent public concern, affecting populations worldwide. The recurrent challenge of food safety incidents reveals the need for a robust inspection framework. In recent years, the integration of isothermal nucleic acid amplification with CRISPR-Cas12a techniques has emerged as a promising tool for molecular detection of food hazards, presenting next generation of biosensing for food safety detection. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the current state of research on the synergistic application of isothermal nucleic acid amplification and CRISPR-Cas12a technology in the field of food safety. This innovative combination not only enriches the analytical tools, but also improving assay performance such as sensitivity and specificity, addressing the limitations of traditional methods. The review summarized various detection methodologies by the integration of isothermal nucleic acid amplification and CRISPR-Cas12a technology for diverse food safety concerns, including pathogenic bacterium, viruses, mycotoxins, food adulteration, and genetically modified foods. Each section elucidates the specific strategies employed and highlights the advantages conferred. Furthermore, the paper discussed the challenges faced by this technology in the context of food safety, offering insightful discussions on potential solutions and future prospects.

Integrative Analyses of Bulk and Single-Cell RNA Seq Identified the Shared Genes in Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a progressive status of acute lung injury (ALI), is primarily caused by an immune-mediated inflammatory disorder, which can be an acute pulmonary complication of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). As a chronic inflammatory disease regulated by the immune system, RA is closely associated with the occurrence and progression of respiratory diseases. However, it remains elusive whether there are shared genes between the molecular mechanisms underlying RA and ARDS. The objective of this study is to identify potential shared genes for further clinical drug discovery through integrated analysis of bulk RNA sequencing datasets obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, employing differentially expressed genes (DEGs) analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). The hub genes were identified through the intersection of common DEGs and WGCNA-derived genes. The Random Forest (RF) and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithms were subsequently employed to identify key shared target genes associated with two diseases. Additionally, RA immune infiltration analysis and COVID-19 single-cell transcriptome analysis revealed the correlation between these key genes and immune cells. A total of 59 shared genes were identified from the intersection of DEGs and gene clusters obtained through WGCNA, which analyzed the integrated gene matrix of ALI/ARDS and RA. The RF and LASSO algorithms were employed to screen for target genes specific to ALI/ARDS and RA, respectively. The final set of overlapping genes (FCMR, ADAM28, HK3, GRB10, UBE2J1, HPSE, DDX24, BATF, and CST7) all exhibited a strong predictive effect with an area under the curve (AUC) value greater than 0.8. Then, the immune infiltration analysis revealed a strong correlation between UBE2J1 and plasma cells in RA. Furthermore, scRNA-seq analysis demonstrated differential expression of these nine target genes primarily in T cells and NK cells, with CST7 showing a significant positive correlation specifically with NK cells. Beyond that, transcriptome sequencing was conducted on lung tissue collected from ALI mice, confirming the substantial differential expression of FCMR, HK3, UBE2J1, and BATF. This study provides unprecedented evidence linking the pathophysiological mechanisms of ALI/ARDS and RA to immune regulation, which offers novel understanding for future clinical treatment and experimental research.

Quantification of MicroRNA in a Single Living Cell via Ionic Current Rectification-Based Nanopore for Triple Negative Breast Cancer Diagnosis

Accurate analysis of microRNAs (miRNAs) at the single-cell level is extremely important for deeply understanding their multiple and intricate biological functions. Despite some advancements in analyzing single-cell miRNAs, challenges such as intracellular interferences and insufficient detection limits still remain. In this work, an ultrasensitive nanopore sensor for quantitative single-cell miRNA-155 detection is constructed based on ionic current rectification (ICR) coupled with enzyme-free catalytic hairpin assembly (CHA). Benefiting from the enzyme-free CHA amplification strategy, the detection limit of the nanopore sensor for miRNA-155 reaches 10 fM and the nanopore sensor is more adaptable to complex intracellular environments. With the nanopore sensor, the concentration of miRNA-155 in living single cells is quantified to realize the early diagnosis of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Furthermore, the nanopore sensor can be applied in screening anticancer drugs by tracking the expression level of miRNA-155. This work provides an adaptive and universal method for quantitatively analyzing intracellular miRNAs, which will greatly improve our understanding of cell heterogeneity and provide a more reliable scientific basis for exploring major diseases at the single-cell level.

Cr(VI) Reduction and Sequestration by FeS Nanoparticles Formed in situ as Aquifer Material Coating to Create a Regenerable Reactive Zone

Remediation of large and dilute plumes of groundwater contaminated by oxidized pollutants such as chromate is a common and difficult challenge. Herein, we show that in situ formation of FeS nanoparticles (using dissolved Fe(II), S(-II), and natural organic matter as a nucleating template) results in uniform coating of aquifer material to create a regenerable reactive zone that mitigates Cr(VI) migration. Flow-through columns packed with quartz sand are amended first with an Fe2+ solution and then with a HS- solution to form a nano-FeS coating on the sand, which does not hinder permeability. This nano-FeS coating effectively reduces and immobilizes Cr(VI), forming Fe(III)-Cr(III) coprecipitates with negligible detachment from the sand grains. Preconditioning the sand with humic or fulvic acid (used as model natural organic matter (NOM)) further enhances Cr(VI) sequestration, as NOM provides additional binding sites of Fe2+ and mediates both nucleation and growth of FeS nanoparticles, as verified with spectroscopic and microscopic evidence. Reactivity can be easily replenished by repeating the procedures used to form the reactive coating. These findings demonstrate that such enhancement of attenuation capacity can be an effective option to mitigate Cr(VI) plume migration and exposure, particularly when tackling contaminant rebound post source remediation.

Inflammasome-Independent Mechanism of NLRP3 Is Critical for Platelet GPIb-IX Function and Thrombosis

INTRODUCTION

 Platelets link thrombosis and inflammation, but how platelets handle the endogenous intraplatelet inflammatory machinery is less well understood. NACHT, LRR, and PYD domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) is the central component of the interleukin (IL)-1-producing inflammasome. Elucidating the cell type-specific mechanism of NLRP3 in platelets may improve our understanding of thrombotic diseases.

METHODS

 Ferric chloride-induced mesenteric arteriole thrombosis models, tail bleeding models, and microfluidic whole-blood perfusion were used to study thrombosis and hemostasis. Additionally, we utilized aggregometry, flow cytometry, immunoprecipitation, and western blotting to investigate glycoprotein (GP)Ib-IX-mediated platelet function and signaling.

RESULTS

 NLRP3-/- mice exhibited severely impaired thrombosis and hemostasis, whereas apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD (ASC)-/-, caspase-1-/-, and Nlrp3 A350V/+ CrePF4 mice did not exhibit such changes. NLRP3-/- platelets exhibited reduced adhesion to injured vessel walls and collagen and impaired von Willebrand factor (vWF)-dependent translocation and rolling behavior. NLRP3 deficiency decreased botrocetin-induced platelet aggregation and the phosphorylation of key signaling molecules in the GPIb-IX pathway. Mechanistically, decreased cAMP/PKA activity led to reduced phosphorylation of NLRP3, thereby enabling the interaction between NLRP3 and filamin A. This interaction accelerated the dissociation of filamin A from GPIbα, which allowed a 14-3-3ζ-dependent increase in GPIb-IX affinity to vWF. Finally, platelet NLRP3 was found to largely regulate thrombotic disease models, such as models of stroke and deep vein thrombosis.

CONCLUSION

 NLRP3 promoted the function of the major platelet adhesion receptor GPIb-IX without involving NLRP3 inflammasome assembly or IL-1β production.

Lithium Metal-Compatible Antifluorite Electrolytes for Solid-State Batteries

Lithium (Li) metal solid-state batteries feature high energy density and improved safety and thus are recognized as promising alternatives to traditional Li-ion batteries. In practice, using Li metal anodes remains challenging because of the lack of a superionic solid electrolyte that has good stability against reduction decomposition at the anode side. Here, we propose a new electrolyte design with an antistructure (compared to conventional inorganic structures) to achieve intrinsic thermodynamic stability with a Li metal anode. Li-rich antifluorite solid electrolytes are designed and synthesized, which give a high ionic conductivity of 2.1 × 10-4 S cm-1 at room temperature with three-dimensional fast Li-ion transport pathways and demonstrate high stability in Li-Li symmetric batteries. Reversible full cells with a Li metal anode and LiCoO2 cathode are also presented, showing the potential of Li-rich antifluorites as Li metal-compatible solid electrolytes for high-energy-density solid-state batteries.

Temperature Self-Compensating Intelligent Wireless Measuring Contact Lens for Quantitative Intraocular Pressure Monitoring

Flexible bioelectronic devices that can perform real-time and accurate intraocular pressure (IOP) monitoring in both clinical and home settings hold significant implications for the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma, yet they face challenges due to the open physiological environment of the ocular. Herein, we develop an intelligent wireless measuring contact lens (WMCL) incorporating a dual inductor-capacitor-resistor (LCR) resonant system to achieve temperature self-compensation for quantitative IOP monitoring in different application environments. The WMCL utilizes a compact circuitry design, which enables the integration of low-frequency and high-frequency resonators within a single layer of a sensing circuit without causing visual impairment. Mechanically guided microscale 3D encapsulation strategy combined with flexible circuit printing techniques achieves the surface-adaptive fabrication of the WMCL. The specific design of frequency separation imparts distinct temperature response characteristics to the dual resonators, and the linear combination of the dual resonators can eliminate the impact of temperature variations on measurement accuracy. The WMCL demonstrates outstanding sensitivity and linearity in monitoring the IOP of porcine eyes in vitro while maintaining satisfactory measurement accuracy even with internal temperature variations exceeding 10 °C. Overcoming the impact of temperature variations on IOP monitoring from the system level, the WMCL showcases immense potential as the next generation of all-weather IOP monitoring devices.

Tensorial Properties via the Neuroevolution Potential Framework: Fast Simulation of Infrared and Raman Spectra

Infrared and Raman spectroscopy are widely used for the characterization of gases, liquids, and solids, as the spectra contain a wealth of information concerning, in particular, the dynamics of these systems. Atomic scale simulations can be used to predict such spectra but are often severely limited due to high computational cost or the need for strong approximations that limit the application range and reliability. Here, we introduce a machine learning (ML) accelerated approach that addresses these shortcomings and provides a significant performance boost in terms of data and computational efficiency compared with earlier ML schemes. To this end, we generalize the neuroevolution potential approach to enable the prediction of rank one and two tensors to obtain the tensorial neuroevolution potential (TNEP) scheme. We apply the resulting framework to construct models for the dipole moment, polarizability, and susceptibility of molecules, liquids, and solids and show that our approach compares favorably with several ML models from the literature with respect to accuracy and computational efficiency. Finally, we demonstrate the application of the TNEP approach to the prediction of infrared and Raman spectra of liquid water, a molecule (PTAF-), and a prototypical perovskite with strong anharmonicity (BaZrO3). The TNEP approach is implemented in the free and open source software package gpumd, which makes this methodology readily available to the scientific community.

Exploring the potential applications of amphiphilic carbon dots based nanocomposite hydrogel in liquid chromatographic separations

BACKGROUND

Due to their excellent stability, low toxicity, flexible modification and adjustable functionality, carbon dots (CDs) have a promising application prospect in the field of chromatographic stationary phases. Hydrogels are new functional polymer materials with three-dimensional network structure that have excellent hydrophilicity, high porosity and unique mechanical properties, which are also good candidate materials for liquid chromatography. Nevertheless, a review of the literature reveals that CDs based nanocomposite hydrogels have not yet been reported as HPLC stationary phases.

RESULTS

In this work, amphiphilic CDs with multiple functional groups and polyacrylic acid hydrogel were grafted to the surface of silica gel by an in-situ polymerization method, and a CDs/polyacrylic acid nanocomposite hydrogel stationary phase (CDs/hydrogel@SiO2) was prepared. CDs act as the macroscopic cross-linking agents to form a cross-linked network with polyacrylic acid chains through physical cross-linking by hydrogen bonding and chemical cross-linking by amidation and esterification reactions, which not only improve the swelling property of the hydrogel but also increase its stability. Additionally, the introduction of CDs with multifunctional groups modulates the hydrophilic-hydrophobic balance of the hydrogel that also imparts good hydrophobicity to the composite hydrogel. Through the study of retention mechanism and influencing factors, it is certificate that the CDs/hydrogel@SiO2 has mixed-mode chromatographic performance. Furthermore, the CDs/hydrogel@SiO2 column shows great potential for the determination of organic contaminants in environmental water samples.

SIGNIFICANCE

This work confirms the potential application of CDs/hydrogel composite for the separation of various samples and provides the possibility of developing CDs based nanocomposite hydrogel in the field of liquid chromatography. Introducing CDs into hydrogel can open up a new way for nanocomposite hydrogels to be used in HPLC, which expands the advance of hydrogel and CDs in separation field.

Efficacy and safety of generic cefoperazone/sulbactam versus branded cefoperazone/sulbactam in the treatment of bacterial infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis

This study aim to assess the clinical efficacy and safety of generic cefoperazone/sulbactam compared to the branded cefoperazone/sulbactam (Sulperazon) in treating bacterial infections through a meta-analysis. Searches were conducted across PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CNKI, WanFang, VIP databases, and Clinical Trials database, resulting in the inclusion of 11 studies comprising 7 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 4 retrospective cohort studies (RCSs). Meta-analysis of the RCTs indicated no statistical differences in clinical success rates, clinical cure rates, microbiological eradication rates, and incidence of adverse reactions between the generic cefoperazone/sulbactam and the branded version. Findings from the RCSs aligned with those from the RCTs, demonstrating that generic versions of cefoperazone/sulbactam are equivalent in efficacy and safety to their branded counterparts in treating bacterial infections.

Structural basis for the recognition of IFNAR1 by the humanized therapeutic monoclonal antibody QX006N for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus

Interferon (IFN) alpha/beta receptor 1 (IFNAR1) is indispensable for antiviral responses and the immune regulation. Dysregulation of the IFNAR1-mediaetd signaling pathways leads to deleterious autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). QX006N, a humanized therapeutic monoclonal antibody, specifically targets human IFNAR1 and is in the clinical trial phase for treating SLE, but the molecular mechanism underlying the QX006N-mediated recognition of IFNAR1 remains unclear. Here, we report the high neutralization activities of QX006N against IFNAR1-mediated signal transduction. Meanwhile, we determine the structures of the fragment antigen-binding domain (Fab) of QX006N (QX006N-Fab) and QX006N-Fab in complex with the subdomains 1-3 of IFNAR1 (IFNAR1-SD123) at 2.87 Å and 2.68 Å resolutions, respectively. In the structure of the QX006N-Fab/IFNAR1-SD123 complex, QX006N-Fab only recognizes the SD3 subdomain of IFNAR1 by the hydrophobic, hydrogen-bonding and electrostatic interactions. Compared with the structure of the IFN/IFNAR1/IFNAR2 complex, the binding of QX006N-Fab to IFNAR1-SD3 blocks its association with IFN due to steric hindrance, which inhibits the IFN/IFNAR1/IFNAR2 complex formation for signal transduction. The results of this study provide the structural evidence for the specific targeting of IFNAR1 by the therapeutic antibody QX006N and pave the way for the rational design of antibody drugs to combat IFNAR1-related autoimmune diseases.

Digital smart internal fixation surgery for coronal process basal fracture with normal joint spaces or radius-shortening: occult factor of radius-ulna load sharing

BACKGROUND

Reasonable postoperative humeroradial and humeroulnar joint spaces maybe an important indicator in biomechanical stability of smart internal fixation surgery for coronoid process basal fractures (CPBF). The aim of this study is to compare elbow articular stresses and elbow-forearm stability under smart internal fixations for the CPBF between normal elbow joint spaces and radius-shortening, and to determine the occult factor of radius-ulna load sharing.

METHODS

CT images of 70 volunteers with intact elbow joints were retrospectively collected for accurate three-dimensional reconstruction to measure the longitudinal and transverse joint spaces. Two groups of ten finite element (FE) models were established prospectively between normal joint space and radius-shortening with 2.0mm, including intact elbow joint and forearm, elbow-forearm with CPBF trauma, anterior or posterior double screws-cancellous bone fixation, mini-plate-cancellous bone fixation. Three sets of physiological loads (compression, valgus, varus) were used for FE intelligent calculation, FE model verification, and biomechanical and motion analysis.

RESULTS

The stress distribution between coronoid process and radial head, compression displacements and valgus angles of elbow-forearm in the three smart fixation models of the normal joint spaces were close to those of corresponding intact elbow model, but were significantly different from those of preoperative CPBF models and fixed radius-shortening models. The maximum stresses of three smart fixation instrument models of normal joint spaces were significantly smaller than those of the corresponding fixed radius-shortening models.

CONCLUSIONS

On the basis of the existing trauma of the elbow-forearm system in clinical practice, which is a dominant factor affecting radius-ulna load sharing, the elbow joint longitudinal space has been found to be the occult factor affecting radius-ulna load sharing. The stability and load sharing of radius and ulna after three kinds of smart fixations of the CPBF is not only related to the anatomical and biomechanical stability principles of smart internal fixations, but also closely related to postoperative elbow joint longitudinal space.

Co-pyrolysis of alkali-fused fly ash and corn stover to synthesize biochar composites for remediating lead-contaminated soil

Fly ash (FA) is mainly composed of silica, alumina, and other metal oxide components, and has a positive stabilizing effect on soil heavy metals. Biochar composites produced from FA and corn stover (CS) can improve its remediation performance. Therefore, a batch of biochar composites (alkali-fused FA-CS biochars, ABs), synthesized via co-pyrolysis of CS and alkali-fused FA (AFFA) at different temperatures of 300, 500, and 700 °C (AB300-1, AB500-1, and AB700-1) and CS to AFFA mass ratios of 10:1, 10:2, and 10:5 (AB500-1, AB500-2, and AB500-5), was used to remediate lead (Pb)-contaminated soil. Compared with pristine biochars (BCs), ABs were enriched with oxygen-containing functional groups (Si-O-Si and Si-O) and aromatic structures. The ABs prepared at lower pyrolytic temperature (≤ 500 °C) and lower ratio of CS to AFFA (10:1) showed higher yield and stability. The contents of Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP)-extractable Pb and DTPA-CaCl2-triethanolamine (DTPA)-extractable Pb were generally lower in the soils amended with ABs than BCs. Compared with other ABs such as AB300-1, AB500-2, AB500-5, and AB700-1, the soil amended with AB500-1 had lower contents of TCLP and DTPA-extractable Pb (24% reduction), exhibiting superior performance in stabilizing Pb in the soil. The gradual decrease of DTPA-extractable Pb content in the soil with increasing dosage of AB500-1 amendments suggests that AB500-1 facilitated the conversion of bioavailable Pb to the stable and less toxic residual fractions. Specifically, the highest percentage of residual fraction of Pb in soil amended with AB500-1 was 14%. Correlation analyses showed that the soil DTPA-extractable Pb content decreased with the increase of soil pH and cation-exchange capacity (CEC) value. ABs stabilize Pb in the soils mainly via electrostatic attraction, precipitation, cation-π interaction, cation exchange, and complexation. These findings provide insights for producing functionalized biochar composites from industrial waste like FA and biomass waste for remediating the soils polluted by heavy metals.

Bispecific CAR T cell therapy targeting BCMA and CD19 in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma: a phase I/II trial

Despite the high therapeutic response achieved with B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA)-specific chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy in relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma (R/R MM), primary resistance and relapse exist with single-target immunotherapy. Here, we design bispecific BC19 CAR T cells targeting BCMA/CD19 and evaluate antimyeloma activity in vitro and in vivo. Preclinical results indicate that BC19 CAR specifically recognize target antigens, and BC19 CAR T cells mediate selective killing of BCMA or CD19-positive cancer cells. BC19 CAR T cells also exhibit potent antigen-specific anti-tumor activity in xenograft mouse models. We conduct an open-label, single-arm, phase I/II study of BC19 CAR T cells in 50 patients with R/R MM (ChiCTR2000033567). The primary endpoint was safety. BC19 CAR T cells are well tolerated with grade 3 or higher cytokine release syndrome in 8% of patients and grade 1 neurotoxic events in 4% of patients, which meet the pre-specified primary endpoint. Secondary endpoints include overall response rate (92%), median progression-free survival (19.7 months), median overall survival (19.7 months) and median duration of response (not reached). Our study demonstrates that bispecific BC19 CAR T cells are feasible, safe and effective in treating patients with R/R MM.

Observation of giant non-reciprocal charge transport from quantum Hall states in a topological insulator

Symmetry breaking in quantum materials is of great importance and can lead to non-reciprocal charge transport. Topological insulators provide a unique platform to study non-reciprocal charge transport due to their surface states, especially quantum Hall states under an external magnetic field. Here we report the observation of non-reciprocal charge transport mediated by quantum Hall states in devices composed of the intrinsic topological insulator Sn-Bi1.1Sb0.9Te2S, which is attributed to asymmetric scattering between quantum Hall states and Dirac surface states. A giant non-reciprocal coefficient of up to 2.26 × 105 A-1 is found. Our work not only reveals the properties of non-reciprocal charge transport of quantum Hall states in topological insulators but also paves the way for future electronic devices.

Acute right extremity deep vein thrombosis and left-sided inferior vena cava thrombosis treated by percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy (PMT) combined with catheter directed thrombolysis (CDT): A case report

INTRODUCTION

Left-sided inferior vena cava (IVC) is an uncommon condition with a prevalence rate of 0.2% to 0.5%. Most of them remain asymptomatic and are discovered incidentally. The patient condition in this case is critical, and conventional procedures are not applicable. The surgical approach being considered is innovative, but it carries significant risks and uncertain therapeutic efficacy.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 42-year-old male presented with acute right lower extremity pain with swelling for 2 days.

DIAGNOSIS

The patient was subsequently diagnosed with acute right lower extremity deep vein thrombosis, inferior vena cava thrombosis, and a left-sided IVC.

INTERVENTIONS

Based on the treatment guidelines for lower extremity deep venous thrombosis.

OUTCOMES

We successfully cured him with percutaneous mechanic thrombectomy (PMT) combined with catheter directed thrombolysis (CDT).

CONCLUSION AND SIGNIFICANCE

The relatively low incidence of left-sided IVC does not diminish the significance of its identification. PMT combined with CDT is a safe way to treat acute thrombosis. It provides a new approach for similar patients in the future.

Macrophage-modulating nanomedicine for cancer immunotherapy

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) play crucial roles in the immunosuppressive solid tumor microenvironment (TME). Despite their tumor-promoting functions, TAMs can also be therapeutically modulated to exhibit tumor-killing properties, making them attractive targets for tumor immunotherapy. This review highlights the recent advances in nanomedicine-based strategies centered around macrophages for enhanced cancer immunotherapy. Emerging nanomedicine-based strategies to modulate TAMs in cancer treatment include repolarization of the TAM phenotype, inhibition of monocyte recruitment, depletion of TAMs, and blockage of immune checkpoints. These strategies have shown great promise in significantly improving the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy. Moreover, macrophage-inspired drug delivery systems have demonstrated significant promise in inducing immunotherapeutic effects and enhancing therapeutic efficacy by facilitating evasion from the reticuloendothelial system and promoting accumulation at the tumor site. Finally, we also discuss the challenges and propose future opportunities associated with macrophage-modulating nanomedicine to enhance cancer immunotherapy.

Long Non-Coding RNA TRG-AS1 Promoted Proliferation and Invasion of Lung Cancer Cells Through the miR-224-5p/SMAD4 Axis [Retraction]

[This retracts the article DOI: 10.2147/OTT.S297336.].