Development and validation of a nomogram to predict the risk of residual low back pain after tubular microdiskectomy of lumbar disk herniation

OBJECTIVE

Tubular microdiskectomy (tMD) is one of the most commonly used for treating lumbar disk herniation. However, there still patients still complain of persistent postoperative residual low back pain (rLBP) postoperatively. This study attempts to develop a nomogram to predict the risk of rLBP after tMD.

METHODS

The patients were divided into non-rLBP (LBP VAS score < 2) and rLBP (LBP VAS score ≥ 2) group. The correlation between rLBP and these factors were analyzed by multivariate logistic analysis. Then, a nomogram prediction model of rLBP was developed based on the risk factors screened by multivariate analysis. The samples in the model are randomly divided into training and validation sets in a 7:3 ratio. The Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to evaluate the diskrimination, calibration and clinical value of the model, respectively.

RESULTS

A total of 14.3% (47/329) of patients have persistent rLBP. The multivariate analysis suggests that higher preoperative LBP visual analog scale (VAS) score, lower facet orientation (FO), grade 2-3 facet joint degeneration (FJD) and moderate-severe multifidus fat atrophy (MFA) are risk factors for postoperative rLBP. In the training and validation sets, the ROC curves, calibration curves, and DCAs suggested the good diskrimination, predictive accuracy between the predicted probability and actual probability, and clinical value of the model, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This nomogram including preoperative LBP VAS score, FO, FJD and MFA can serve a promising prediction model, which will provide a reference for clinicians to predict the rLBP after tMD.

Exploring FGFR signaling inhibition as a promising approach in breast cancer treatment

As our grasp of cancer genomics deepens, we are steadily progressing towards the domain of precision medicine, where targeted therapy stands out as a revolutionary breakthrough in the landscape of cancer therapeutics. The fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFR) pathway has been unveiled as a fundamental instigator in the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying breast carcinoma, paving the way for the exhilarating development of precision-targeted therapeutics. In the pursuit of exploring inhibitors that specifically target the FGFR signaling pathways, a multitude of kinase inhibitors targeting FGFR has been assiduously engineered to address the heterogeneous landscape of human malignancies. This review offers an exhaustive exploration of aberrations within the FGFR pathway and their functional implications in breast cancer. Additionally, we delve into cutting-edge therapeutic approaches for the treatment of breast cancer patients bearing FGFR alterations and the management of toxicity associated with FGFR inhibitors. Furthermore, our contemplation of the evolution of cutting-edge FGFR inhibitors foresees their potential to spearhead innovative therapeutic approaches in the ongoing combat against cancer.

Danggui Shaoyao San protects cyclophosphamide-induced premature ovarian failure by inhibiting apoptosis and oxidative stress through the regulation of the SIRT1/p53 signaling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

It has been reported that apoptosis and oxidative stress are related to cyclophosphamide (CYC)-induced premature ovarian failure (POF). Therefore, anti-apoptotic and anti-oxidative stress treatments exhibit therapeutic efficacy in CYC-induced POF. Danggui Shaoyao San (DSS), which has been extensively used to treat gynecologic diseases, is found to inhibit apoptosis and reduce oxidative stress. However, the roles of DSS in regulating apoptosis and oxidative stress during CYC-induced POF, and its associated mechanisms are still unknown.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This work aimed to investigate the roles and mechanisms of DSS in inhibiting apoptosis and oxidative stress in CYC-induced POF.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

CYC (75 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally injected in mice to construct the POF mouse model for in vivo study. Thereafter, alterations of body weight, ovary morphology and estrous cycle were monitored to assess the ovarian protective properties of DSS. Serum LH and E2 levels were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was employed for examining ovarian pathological morphology and quantifying follicles in various stages. Meanwhile, TUNEL staining and apoptosis-related proteins were adopted for evaluating apoptosis. Oxidative stress was measured by the levels of ROS, MDA, and 4-HNE. Western blot (WB) assay was performed to detect proteins related to the SIRT1/p53 pathway. KGN cells were used for in vitro experiment. TBHP stimulation was carried out for establishing the oxidative stress-induced apoptosis cell model. Furthermore, MTT assay was employed for evaluating the protection of DSS from TBHP-induced oxidative stress. The anti-apoptotic ability of DSS was evaluated by hoechst/PI staining, JC-1 staining, and apoptosis-related proteins. Additionally, the anti-oxidative stress ability of DSS was measured by detecting the levels of ROS, MDA, and 4-HNE. Proteins related to SIRT1/p53 signaling pathway were also measured using WB and immunofluorescence (IF) staining. Besides, SIRT1 expression was suppressed by EX527 to further investigate the role of SIRT1 in the effects of DSS against apoptosis and oxidative stress.

RESULTS

In the in vivo experiment, DSS dose-dependently exerted its anti-apoptotic, anti-oxidative stress, and ovarian protective effects. In addition, apoptosis, apoptosis-related protein and oxidative stress levels were inhibited by DSS treatment. DSS treatment up-regulated SIRT1 and down-regulated p53 expression. From in vitro experiment, it was found that DSS treatment protected KGN cells from TBHP-induced oxidative stress injury. Besides, DSS administration suppressed the apoptosis ratio, apoptosis-related protein levels, mitochondrial membrane potential damage, and oxidative stress. SIRT1 suppression by EX527 abolished the anti-apoptotic, anti-oxidative stress, and ovarian protective effects, as discovered from in vivo and in vitro experiments.

CONCLUSIONS

DSS exerts the anti-apoptotic, anti-oxidative stress, and ovarian protective effects in POF mice, and suppresses the apoptosis and oxidative stress of KGN cells through activating SIRT1 and suppressing p53 pathway.

The incidence of surgical site infections in China

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are a common type of healthcare-associated infection. We performed a literature review to demonstrate the incidence of SSIs in mainland China based on studies since 2010. We included 231 eligible studies with ≥30 postoperative patients, comprising 14 providing overall SSI data regardless of surgical sites and 217 reporting SSIs for a specific site. We found that the overall SSI incidence was 2.91% (median; interquartile range: 1.05%, 4.57%) or 3.18% (pooled; 95% confidence interval: 1.85%, 4.51%) and the SSI incidence varied remarkably according to the surgical site between the lowest (median, 1.00%; pooled, 1.69%) in thyroid surgeries and the highest (median, 14.89%; pooled, 12.54%) in colorectal procedures. We uncovered that Enterobacterales and staphylococci were the most common types of micro-organisms associated with SSIs after various abdominal surgeries and cardiac or neurological procedures, respectively. We identified two, nine, and five studies addressing the impact of SSIs on mortality, the length of stay (LOS) in hospital, and additional healthcare-related economic burden, respectively, all of which demonstrated increased mortality, prolonged LOS, and elevated medical costs associated with SSIs among affected patients. Our findings illustrate that SSIs remain a relatively common, serious threat to patient safety in China, requiring more action. To tackle SSIs, we propose to establish a nationwide network for SSI surveillance using unified criteria with the aid of informatic techniques and to tailor and implement countermeasures based on local data and observation. We highlight that the impact of SSIs in China warrants further study.

[Opening experiments: synthesis, purification, and characterization of polyethyleneimine-modified carbon dots]

Open experiments are an effective means of cultivating top-notch innovative talents. Based on student interests, research hotspots and our laboratory conditions, an experimental scheme was designed. In this experiment, polyethyleneimine modified carbon dots (PEI-CDs) were prepared via a one-step hydrothermal method using citric acid (CA) as the carbon source and PEI as the surface passivator. First, CA and PEI were completely dissolved in 0.1 mol/L HCl and transferred into an autoclave. The autoclave was heated to 130 ℃ for 2 h. PEI-CDs solution was obtained. After cooling to room temperature, the solution was concentrated to 2 mL by rotary evaporation. Finally, the PEI-CDs were precipitated, washed with ethanol, and dried under vacuum at 70 ℃ for 12 h. The obtained PEI-CDs were characterized by fluorescence spectrophotometry, absorption spectrophotometry, infrared spectrometry, and transmission electron microscopy. The results indicated that anhydrous-ethanol precipitation is a simple, rapid, economical, and green purification method. The as-prepared PEI-CDs had unique properties, such as good water solubility, high luminescence, uniform particle sizes, and good stability. Through this open experiment, students can not only master the operation of large-scale instruments but also enhance their interest in scientific research.

Identification of Panax notoginseng origin using terahertz precision spectroscopy and neural network algorithm

Panax notoginseng (P. notoginseng), a Chinese herb containing various saponins, benefits immune system in medicines development, which from Wenshan (authentic cultivation) is often counterfeited by others for large demand and limited supply. Here, we proposed a method for identifying P. notoginseng origin combining terahertz (THz) precision spectroscopy and neural network. Based on the comparative analysis of four qualitative identification methods, we chose high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and THz spectroscopy to detect 252 samples from five origins. After classifications using Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) model, we found that the performance of THz spectra was superior to that of HPLC. The underlying mechanism is that there are clear nonlinear relations among the THz spectra and the origins due to the wide spectra and multi-parameter characteristics, which makes the accuracy of five-classification origin identification up to 97.62%. This study realizes the rapid, non-destructive and accurate identification of P. notoginseng origin, providing a practical reference for herbal medicine.

The burden of mental disorders in Asian countries, 1990-2019: an analysis for the global burden of disease study 2019

Mental disorders are the leading contributors to the globally nonfatal burden of disease. This study was aimed to estimate the burden of mental disorders in Asian countries. Based on GBD 2019, the prevalence and disability-adjusted life of years (DALYs) rates with 95% uncertainty intervals (UI) were estimated in Asian countries. Predictions for the future burden of 8 selected countries, ranks of the burden of mental disorders and correlations with Sociodemographic Index (SDI) were also estimated. During the past 3 decades, while the number of DALYs of mental disorders increased from 43.9 million (95% UI: 32.5-57.2) to 69.0 million (95% UI: 51.0-89.7), the age-standardized rates of DALYs of mental disorders remained largely consistent from 1452.2 (95% UI: 1080.16-1888.53) per 100,000 population in 1990 to 1434.82 (95% UI: 1065.02-1867.27) per 100,000 population in 2019, ranked as the eighth most significant disease burden in Asia in 2019. Depressive disorders (37.2%) were the leading contributors to the age-standardized DALY rates of mental disorders in Asia, followed by anxiety disorders (21.5%). The age-standardized DALY rates in females were higher than their male counterparts, both peaked at 30-34 years. The age-standardized DALY rates were predicted to remain stable, with the number of DALYs presented an upward trend in the future. There was no significant correlation between the burden of mental disorders and SDI. All mental disorders ranked higher in 2019, compared in 1990. To reduce this burden, urgent measures for prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation for mental disorders need to be taken by Asian governments.

Reversible single-crystal-to-single-crystal transition in Gd(III) metal-organic frameworks induced by heat and solvents with a significant magnetocaloric effect

The design and synthesis of a Gd(III) metal-organic framework with the formula [Gd4(BTDI)3(DMF)4]n (JXUST-40, H4BTDI = 5,5'-(benzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazole-4,7-diyl)diisophthalic acid) are reported hererin. Interestingly, a reversible single-crystal-to-single-crystal transition between JXUST-40 and {[Gd4(BTDI)3(H2O)4]·6H2O}n (JXUST-40a) was achieved under the stimulation of heat and solvents. Both JXUST-40 and JXUST-40a exhibited good stability when soaked in common solvents and aqueous solutions with pH values of 1-12. Magnetic studies showed that JXUST-40a has a larger magnetocaloric effect with -ΔSmaxm = 26.65 J kg-1 K-1 at 2 K and 7 T than JXUST-40 due to its larger magnetic density. Structural analyses indicated that the coordinated solvent molecules play a crucial role in the coordination environment around the Gd(III) ions and the change in the framework, ultimately leading to the changes in the pore size and magnetism between JXUST-40 and JXUST-40a. In addition, both isomorphic [Dy4(BTDI)3(DMF)4]n (JXUST-41) and {[Dy4(BTDI)3(H2O)4]·6H2O}n (JXUST-41a) displayed slow magnetic relaxation behaviour.

Maslinic acid alleviates intervertebral disc degeneration by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT and NF-κB signaling pathways

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is the cause of low back pain (LBP), and recent research has suggested that inflammatory cytokines play a significant role in this process. Maslinic acid (MA), a natural compound found in olive plants ( Olea europaea), has anti-inflammatory properties, but its potential for treating IDD is unclear. The current study aims to investigate the effects of MA on TNFα-induced IDD in vitro and in other in vivo models. Our findings suggest that MA ameliorates the imbalance of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and mitigates senescence by upregulating aggrecan and collagen II levels as well as downregulating MMP and ADAMTS levels in nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs). It can also impede the progression of IDD in rats. We further find that MA significantly affects the PI3K/AKT and NF-κB pathways in TNFα-induced NPCs determined by RNA-seq and experimental verification, while the AKT agonist Sc-79 eliminates these signaling cascades. Furthermore, molecular docking simulation shows that MA directly binds to PI3K. Dysfunction of the PI3K/AKT pathway and ECM metabolism has also been confirmed in clinical specimens of degenerated nucleus pulposus. This study demonstrates that MA may hold promise as a therapeutic agent for alleviating ECM metabolism disorders and senescence to treat IDD.

A dinuclear CdII cluster-based stable luminescent metal-organic framework for the consecutive and visual detection of H2PO4- and OCN. Dalton Trans 2024;53:5160-5166. [PMID: 38380950 DOI: 10.1039/d3dt03523a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0]

Due to their hazard to biological systems, it is urgent to develop materials that can rapidly and sensitively detect the concentration of H2PO4- and OCN- ions. In this work, a new CdII-based luminescent metal-organic framework with the formula [Cd(BTDB)(2,6-BBIP)]n (JXUST-47, H2BTDB = (benzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazole-4,7-diyl)dibenzoic acid, 2,6-BBIP = 2,6-bis(benzimidazol-1-yl)pyridine) and sql topology was successfully synthesized using a mixed-ligand strategy. JXUST-47 shows good chemical and thermal stability. It also exhibits weak quenching and fluorescence blue shift for H2PO4- and red shift for OCN-, with the detection limits of 0.106 and 0.128 mM, respectively. In addition, considering the demand for H2PO4- and OCN- ion detection, by combining this with the functions of a smartphone, the chroma of photographs have been used to realize the consecutive visual detection of the concentration of these ions.

AXL/WRNIP1 Mediates Replication Stress Response and Promotes Therapy Resistance and Metachronous Metastasis in HER2+ Breast Cancer

Therapy resistance and metastatic progression are primary causes of cancer-related mortality. Disseminated tumor cells possess adaptive traits that enable them to reprogram their metabolism, maintain stemness, and resist cell death, facilitating their persistence to drive recurrence. The survival of disseminated tumor cells also depends on their ability to modulate replication stress in response to therapy while colonizing inhospitable microenvironments. In this study, we discovered that the nuclear translocation of AXL, a TAM receptor tyrosine kinase, and its interaction with WRNIP1, a DNA replication stress response factor, promotes the survival of HER2+ breast cancer cells that are resistant to HER2-targeted therapy and metastasize to the brain. In preclinical models, knocking down or pharmacologically inhibiting AXL or WRNIP1 attenuated protection of stalled replication forks. Furthermore, deficiency or inhibition of AXL and WRNIP1 also prolonged metastatic latency and delayed relapse. Together, these findings suggest that targeting the replication stress response, which is a shared adaptive mechanism in therapy-resistant and metastasis-initiating cells, could reduce metachronous metastasis and enhance the response to standard-of-care therapies.

SIGNIFICANCE

Nuclear AXL and WRNIP1 interact and mediate replication stress response, promote therapy resistance, and support metastatic progression, indicating that targeting the AXL/WRNIP1 axis is a potentially viable therapeutic strategy for breast cancer.

A Comparative Evaluation of TRPS1 and GATA3 in adenoid cystic, secretory, and acinic cell carcinomas of the breast and salivary gland

GATA3 is the most used marker to determine tumors' breast origin, but its diagnostic value in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is limited. The newly identified TRPS1 is highly sensitive and specific for breast carcinoma, especially TNBC. Here, we compared the utility of TRPS1 and GATA3 expression in a subset of salivary gland-type breast tumors (including adenoid cystic, acinic cell, and secretory carcinomas [AdCC, ACC, and SC, respectively]), and we compared TRPS1 and GATA3 expression of such tumors with head and neck (H&N) and AdCC of upper respiratory tumors. TRPS1 was strongly expressed in basaloid TNBC and AdCCs with solid components, including 100 % of mixed and solid breast AdCCs. However, TRPS1 was positive in only 50 % cribriform AdCCs. Expression patterns of TRPS1 in H&N and upper respiratory AdCC were similar. TRPS1 was positive in 30 % of H&N cribriform AdCCs but was strongly expressed in mixed AdCC (67 %) and solid AdCC (100 %). In the upper respiratory AdCCs, TRPS1 was positive in 58.4 % of cribriform AdCCs and positive in 100 % of AdCCs with solid components. On the contrary, GATA3 was negative in predominant AdCCs of the breast, H&N, and upper respiratory tract. These data show that GATA3 and TRPS1 expression varies AdCCs. In addition, TRPS1 and GATA3 expression patterns were similar SC and ACC of breast and H&N. Both markers were positive in SC and negative in ACC. Therefore, TRPS1 and GATA3 cannot be used to differentiate salivary gland-type carcinomas of breast origin from those of upper respiratory or H&N origin.

Trends of hospitalisation among new admission inpatients with oesophagogastric variceal bleeding in cirrhosis from 2014 to 2019 in the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University: a single-centre time-series analysis

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to assess the internal law and time trend of hospitalisation for oesophagogastric variceal bleeding (EGVB) in cirrhosis and develop an effective model to predict the trend of hospitalisation time.

DESIGN

We used a time series covering 72 months to analyse the hospitalisation for EGVB in cirrhosis. The number of inpatients in the first 60 months was used as the training set to establish the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model, and the number over the next 12 months was used as the test set to predict and observe their fitting effect.

SETTING AND DATA

Case data of patients with EGVB between January 2014 and December 2019 were collected from the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University.

OUTCOME MEASURES

The number of monthly hospitalised patients with EGVB in our hospital.

RESULTS

A total of 877 patients were included in the analysis. The proportion of EGVB in patients with cirrhosis was 73% among men and 27% among women. The peak age at hospitalisation was 40-60 years. The incidence of EGVB varied seasonally with two peaks from January to February and October to November, while the lowest number was observed between April and August. Time-series analysis showed that the number of inpatients with EGVB in our hospital increased annually. The sequence after the first-order difference was a stationary series (augmented Dickey-Fuller test p=0.02). ARIMA (0,1,0) (0,1,1)12 with a minimum Akaike Information Criterion value of 260.18 could fit the time trend of EGVB inpatients and had a good short-term prediction effect. The root mean square error and mean absolute error were 2.4347 and 1.9017, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The number of hospitalised patients with EGVB at our hospital is increasing annually, with seasonal changes. The ARIMA model has a good prediction effect on the number of hospitalised patients with EGVB in cirrhosis.

Transcription factor OsMYB30 increases trehalose content to inhibit α-amylase and seed germination at low temperature

Low-temperature germination (LTG) is an important agronomic trait for direct-seeding cultivation of rice (Oryza sativa). Both OsMYB30 and OsTPP1 regulate the cold stress response in rice, but the function of OsMYB30 and OsTPP1 in regulating LTG and the underlying molecular mechanism remains unknown. Employing transcriptomics and functional studies revealed a sugar signaling pathway that regulates seed germination in response to low temperature (LT). Expression of OsMYB30 and OsTPP1 was induced by LT during seed germination, and overexpressing either OsMYB30 or OsTPP1 delayed seed germination and increased sensitivity to LT during seed germination. Transcriptomics and qPCR revealed that expression of OsTPP1 was upregulated in OsMYB30-overexpressing lines but downregulated in OsMYB30-knockout lines. In vitro and in vivo experiments revealed that OsMYB30 bound to the promoter of OsTPP1 and regulated the abundance of OsTPP1 transcripts. Overaccumulation of trehalose (Tre) was found in both OsMYB30- and OsTPP1-overexpressing lines, resulting in inhibition of α-amylase 1a (OsAMY1a) gene during seed germination. Both LT and exogenous Tre treatments suppressed the expression of OsAMY1a, and the osamy1a mutant was not sensitive to exogenous Tre during seed germination. Overall, we concluded that OsMYB30 expression was induced by LT to activate the expression of OsTPP1 and increase Tre content, which thus inhibited α-amylase activity and seed germination. This study identified a phytohormone-independent pathway that integrates environmental cues with internal factors to control seed germination.

Laparoscopic surgery for ectopic pregnancy: A comparative study on the clinical benefits and impact on tubal patency and reproductive outcomes

BACKGROUND

Ectopic pregnancy is a major contributor to maternal morbidity and mortality across the globe.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate the clinical benefits of laparoscopic surgery in treating ectopic pregnancy, and its impact on tubal patency and reproductive outcomes.

METHODS

A clinical study was conducted to compare laparoscopic and medical conservative treatment for ectopic pregnancy. A total of 206 patients were treated for ectopic pregnancy at our hospital from January 2018 to June 2020. Among them, 46 underwent laparoscopic ipsilateral salpingectomy, 54 underwent laparoscopic ipsilateral salpingostomy with lesion removal, and 106 were treated conservatively with medication.

RESULTS

The age range and average age of each group are provided, with no significant differences in these general demographic characteristics (p> 0.05). Both the salpingostomy and medication groups had higher rates of ectopic pregnancy compared to the salpingectomy group, with statistically significant differences (p< 0.05). The comparison of ectopic pregnancy rates between the salpingostomy and medication groups showed no significant difference. Within three years, the salpingostomy group had 10 cases of recurrent ectopic pregnancy, with 2 cases on the same side, while the medication group had 18 cases, with 8 cases on the same side. At 3 months after the normalization of blood β-HCG, the salpingostomy group showed 43 cases of tubal patency (patency rate: 79.63%), while the medication group showed 57 cases (patency rate: 53.77%), with a statistically significant difference between the two groups (p= 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic surgery for ectopic pregnancy offers significant clinical benefits over conservative medical treatment, including higher rates of tubal patency and improved reproductive outcomes. These findings support laparoscopic surgery as an effective approach for the management of ectopic pregnancy.

A Real-World Pharmacovigilance Study of Ceftazidime/Avibactam: Data Mining of the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System Database

Ceftazidime/avibactam (CAZ/AVI) is a combination of a well-known third-generation, broad-spectrum cephalosporin with a new beta-lactamase inhibitor that has been approved for the treatment of various infectious diseases (especially multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacterial infections) by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The current study extensively assessed CAZ/AVI-related adverse events (AEs) in the real world through data mining of the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database to better understand toxicities. The signals of CAZ/AVI-related AEs were quantified using disproportionality analyses, including the reporting odds ratio, the proportional reporting ratio, the Bayesian confidence propagation neural network, and the multi-item gamma Poisson shrinker algorithms. Out of 10,114,815 records retrieved from the FAERS database, 628 cases were identified, where CAZ/AVI was implicated as the primary suspect drug. A total of 61 preferred terms with significant disproportionality that simultaneously met the criteria of all four algorithms were retained. Several unexpected safety signals may also occur, including melena, hypernatremia, depressed level of consciousness, brain edema, petechiae, delirium, and shock hemorrhagic. The median onset time for AEs associated with CAZ/AVI was 4 days, with most cases occurring within 3 days after CAZ/AVI initiation.

Population genomics of Agrotis segetum provide insights into the local adaptive evolution of agricultural pests

BACKGROUND

The adaptive mechanisms of agricultural pests are the key to understanding the evolution of the pests and to developing new control strategies. However, there are few studies on the genetic basis of adaptations of agricultural pests. The turnip moth, Agrotis segetum (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is an important underground pest that affects a wide range of host plants and has a strong capacity to adapt to new environments. It is thus a good model for studying the adaptive evolution of pest species.

RESULTS

We assembled a high-quality reference genome of A. segetum using PacBio reads. Then, we constructed a variation map of A. segetum by resequencing 98 individuals collected from six natural populations in China. The analysis of the population structure showed that all individuals were divided into four well-differentiated populations, corresponding to their geographical distribution. Selective sweep analysis and environmental association studies showed that candidate genes associated with local adaptation were functionally correlated with detoxification metabolism and glucose metabolism.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study of A. segetum has provided insights into the genetic mechanisms of local adaptation and evolution; it has also produced genetic resources for developing new pest management strategies.

Thermomechanically stable supramolecular elastomers inspired by heat shock proteins

Supramolecular polymers are usually thermomechanically unstable, as their mechanical strength decreases drastically upon heating, which is a fatal shortcoming for their application. Herein, inspired by heat shock proteins (HSPs) which enable living organisms to tolerate lethal high temperatures, we design an HSP-like response to impart a supramolecular elastomer with high thermomechanical stability. The HSP-like response relies on the reversible hydrolysis of boronic acid and the tunable association strength of boron dative bonds. As the temperature increases, the boronic acid dehydrates and transforms into boroxane. The boroxane, acting as a heat shock chemical, prevents the disintegration of the supramolecular network through formation of multiple and stronger dative bonds with imidazole-containing polymers, thereby enabling the material to retain its mechanical strength at high temperatures. Such chemical transformation and network change induced by the HSP-like response are fully reversible during the heating and cooling processes. Moreover, due to the dynamic nature of the supramolecular network, the elastomer possesses recycling and self-healing abilities.

Achieving a Wide-Range Linear Piezoresistive Response in Electrowritten Soft-Hard Polymer Blends via Salami-Inspired Heterostructure Design

Flexible electronics capable of acquiring high-precision signals are in great demand for the development of the internet of things and intelligent artificial. However, it is currently a challenge to simultaneously achieve high signal linearity and sensitivity for stretchable resistive sensors over a wide strain range toward advanced application scenarios requiring high signal accuracy, e.g., sophisticated physiological signal discrimination and displacement measurement. Herein, a film strain sensor, which has an electrical and mechanical dual heterostructure, was fabricated via a direct near-field electrowriting and molecule-guided in situ growth of silver nanoparticles with different concentrations on high-modulus polystyrene domains and low-modulus styrene-butadiene copolymers with a salami-like morphology. Mechanism analyses from both theoretical and experimental investigations reveal that the salami-like heteromodulus microstructure regulates microcrack propagation routes, while the heteroconductivity changes the electron transport paths and amplifies the resistance increase during crack propagation. Therefore, the as-designed strain sensor shows a linear resistive response within ca. 70% strain with a gauge factor of 25, unveiling a simple and scalable strategy for trading off signal linearity and sensitivity over a wide strain range for the fabrication of high-performance linear strain sensors.

Enzyme-Activatable Near-Infrared Photosensitizer with High Enrichment in Tumor Cells Based on a Multi-Effect Design

Enzyme-activatable near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent probes and photosensitizers (PSs) have emerged as promising tools for molecular imaging and photodynamic therapy (PDT). However, in living organisms selective retention or even enrichment of these reagents after enzymatic activation at or near sites of interest remains a challenging task. Herein, we integrate non-covalent and covalent retention approaches to introduce a novel "1-to-3" multi-effect strategy-one enzymatic stimulus leads to three types of effects-for the design of an enzyme-activatable NIR probe or PS. Using this strategy, we have constructed an alkaline phosphatase (ALP)-activatable NIR fluorogenic probe and a NIR PS, which proved to be selectively activated by ALP to switch on NIR fluorescence or photosensitizing ability, respectively. Additionally, these reagents showed significant enrichment (over 2000-fold) in ALP-overexpressed tumor cells compared to the culture medium, accompanied by massive depletion of intracellular thiols, the major antioxidants in cells. The investigation of this ALP-activatable NIR PS in an in vivo PDT model resulted in complete suppression of HeLa tumors and full recovery of all tested mice. Encouragingly, even a single administration of this NIR PS was sufficient to completely suppress tumors in mice, demonstrating the high potential of this strategy in biomedical applications.

Spermidine or spermine pretreatment regulates organic metabolites and ions homeostasis in favor of white clover seed germination against salt toxicity

White clover is widely cultivated as a leguminous forage or ground cover plant worldwide. However, soil salinization decreases its yield and quality. Aims of the present experiment were to elucidate the impact of seed pretreatment with spermidine (Spd) or spermine (Spm) on amylolysis, Na+/K+ accumulation, and metabolic homeostasis during germination. Seed was soaked in distilled water (control), Spd or Spm solution and then germinated under optimal or salt stress conditions for 7 days. Results showed that germination vigor, germination percentage, or seed vigour index of seeds pretreatment with Spd increased by 7%, 11%, or 70% when compared with water-pretreated seeds under salt stress, respectively. Germination percentage or seed vigour index of seeds pretreatment with Spm increased by 17% or 78% than water-pretreated seeds under saline condition, respectively. In response to salt stress, accelerated amylolysis via activation of β-amylase activity was induced by Spd or Spm pretreatment. Spd or Spm pretreatment also significantly enhanced accumulation of diverse amino acids, organic acids, sugars, and other metabolites (putrescine, myo-inositol, sorbitol, daidzein etc.) associated with enhanced osmotic adjustment, antioxidant capacity, and energy supply during germination under salt stress. In addition, Spd or Spm pretreatment not only significantly reduced salt-induced K+ loss and overaccumulation of Na+, but also improved the ratio of K+ to Na+, contributing to Na+ and K+ balance in seedlings. In response to salt stress, seeds pretreatment with Spd or Spm up-regulated transcription level of NHX2 related to enhancement in compartmentation of Na+ from cytoplasm to vacuole, thus reducing Na+ toxicity in cytoplasm. Spm priming also uniquely up-regulated transcription levels of SKOR, HKT1, and HAL2 associated with K+ and Na + homeostasis and decline in cytotoxicity under salt stress.

Acanthamoeba Keratitis in China: Genotypic and Clinical Correlations

Purpose

To investigate the relationship between Acanthamoeba genotypes, clinical manifestations, and outcomes in Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) patients.

Methods

This retrospective study included 159 culture-confirmed AK patients. Patients' data were collected, including demographics, initial diagnosis, treatments, and clinical features. The genotype of Acanthamoeba was identified through sequencing the Diagnostic Fragment 3 (DF3) region in the small ribosomal subunit RNA genes. The phylogenetic tree was constructed using the ClustalW model and maximum likelihood method. Cases with "poor outcome" were defined based on specific clinical criteria, including corneal perforation, keratoplasty, other eye surgery, duration of anti-amoebic therapy ≥8.0 months, and final visual acuity ≤20/80. "Better outcome" cases were the remainder. The correlation between T4 subtypes, clinical phenotypes, and clinical prognosis were further analyzed.

Results

In this study, AK was primarily attributed to the T4A genotype, with a positive correlation between geographical and genetic distances. The primary clinical associated with T4 subtypes was deep stromal infiltration. Results was also showed a significant association between T4 subtypes and clinical outcomes (P = 0.021). Further analysis revealed that T4C was closely associated with a better prognosis (P = 0.040) and T4D with worse outcomes (P = 0.013).

Conclusions

In China, AK was predominantly caused by the T4A subtype. Geographical distance positively correlated with genetic distance. Clinical prognosis varied among different subtypes, notably in T4C and T4D.

Translational Relevance

This study demonstrated the association between T4 subtypes and clinical phenotypes, as well as the effects of T4 subtypes on clinical prognosis.

TRPS1 and GATA3 Expression in Invasive Breast Carcinoma With Apocrine Differentiation

CONTEXT.—

The recently identified immunohistochemical marker TRPS1 is highly sensitive and specific for invasive breast carcinoma, especially triple-negative breast carcinoma. However, TRPS1 expression in special morphologic subtypes of breast cancer is unclear.

OBJECTIVE.—

To investigate the expression of TRPS1 in invasive breast cancer with apocrine differentiation, in comparison to the expression of GATA3.

DESIGN.—

A total of 52 invasive breast carcinomas with apocrine differentiation, comprising 41 triple-negative breast carcinomas and 11 estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR)-negative, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive cases, along with 11 triple-negative breast carcinomas without apocrine differentiation, were evaluated for TRPS1 and GATA3 expression by immunohistochemistry. All tumors were diffusely positive (>90%) for androgen receptor (AR).

RESULTS.—

Triple-negative breast carcinoma with apocrine differentiation had positive TRPS1 expression in 12% of cases (5 of 41), whereas GATA3 was positive in all cases. Similarly, HER2+/ER- invasive breast carcinoma with apocrine differentiation showed positive TRPS1 in 18% of cases (2 of 11), whereas GATA3 was positive in all cases. In contrast, triple-negative breast carcinoma with strong AR expression but without apocrine differentiation showed both TRPS1 and GATA3 expression in 100% (11 of 11) of cases.

CONCLUSIONS.—

Most ER-/PR-/AR+ invasive breast carcinomas with apocrine differentiation are TRPS1 negative and GATA3 positive, regardless of HER2 status. Therefore, TRPS1 negativity does not exclude breast origin in tumors with apocrine differentiation. A panel of TRPS1 and GATA3 immunostains can be helpful when the tissue origin of such tumors is clinically relevant.

Ultrasensitive Soft Sensor from Anisotropic Conductive Biphasic Liquid Metal-Polymer Gels

Subtle vibrations, such as sound and ambient noises, are common mechanical waves that can transmit energy and signals for modern technologies such as robotics and health management devices. However, soft electronics cannot accurately distinguish ultrasmall vibrations owing to their extremely small pressure, complex vibration waveforms, and high noise susceptibility. This study successfully recognizes signals from subtle vibrations using a highly flexible anisotropic conductive gel (ACG) based on biphasic liquid metals. The relationships between the anisotropic structure, subtle vibrations, and electrical performance are investigated using rheological-electrical experiments. The refined anisotropic design successfully realized low-cost flexible electronics with ultrahigh sensitivity (Gauge Factor: 12787), extremely low detection limit (strain: 0.01%), and excellent frequency recognition accuracy (>99%), significantly surpassing those of current flexible sensors. The ultrasensitive flexible electronics in this study are beneficial for diverse advanced technologies such as acoustic engineering, wearable electronics, and intelligent robotics.

Development of a risk score for myopia: A cohort study conducted among school-aged children in China

PURPOSE

To evaluate the myopia risk in school-aged children one year after lifting a pandemic-related lockdown and develop a tool to identify high-risk groups.

METHODS

In total, 38,079 children without myopia from 38 schools were included. The outcomes were myopia incidence and progression in 1 year after the COVID-19 lockdown was lifted, both obtained by the spherical equivalent refraction (SER). We separated the population into an exploratory (75%) and a validation sample (25%) to construct the risk score model.

RESULTS

In total, 9811 (29.57%) students became myopic, and the overall myopia progression was 0.22 ± 0.62 D. Even less myopia progression was noted in the pre-myopia group at baseline (All: P = 0.045, Boy: P = 0.005). The risk score model included seven predictors: gender, grade, SER at baseline, residence, parental myopia, eye discomfort symptoms, and online courses. The model had a score range of 0-46 and an optimal cutoff of 34. The area under the receiver operating curve of the model was 0.726 (0.719-0.732) for the exploratory sample and 0.731 (0.720-0.742) for the validation sample.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk score can serve as a practical tool for classifying the risk of myopia in school-aged children.

Evaluating the depression state during perinatal period by non-invasive scalp EEG

Perinatal depression, with a prevalence of 10 to 20% in United States, is usually missed as multiple symptoms of perinatal depression are common in pregnant women. Worse, the diagnosis of perinatal depression still largely relies on questionnaires, leaving the objective biomarker being unveiled yet. This study suggested a safe and non-invasive technique to diagnose perinatal depression and further explore its underlying mechanism. Considering the non-invasiveness and clinical convenience of electroencephalogram for mothers-to-be and fetuses, we collected the resting-state electroencephalogram of pregnant women at the 38th week of gestation. Subsequently, the difference in network topology between perinatal depression patients and healthy mothers-to-be was explored, with related spatial patterns being adopted to achieve the classification of pregnant women with perinatal depression from those healthy ones. We found that the perinatal depression patients had decreased brain network connectivity, which indexed impaired efficiency of information processing. By adopting the spatial patterns, the perinatal depression could be accurately recognized with an accuracy of 87.88%; meanwhile, the depression severity at the individual level was effectively predicted, as well. These findings consistently illustrated that the resting-state electroencephalogram network could be a reliable tool for investigating the depression state across pregnant women, and will further facilitate the clinical diagnosis of perinatal depression.

The Simulation Analysis and Experimental Study on the Temperature Field of Four Row Rolling Bearings of Rolling Mill under Non-Uniform Load Conditions

As a key component of the rolling mill, the four-row cylindrical roller bearing (FCRB) operates under complex working conditions of high speed, high temperature, and heavy load. Due to the lack of an effective temperature test scheme for rolling mill bearings, a too high temperature can easily lead to bearing failure or damage under unsteady conditions. To reveal the internal temperature distribution law of four-row roller bearings of rolling mills and solve the common problem of difficult temperature monitoring of rolling mill bearings, in this paper, a four-row cylindrical roller bearing of 1140 mm cold rolling six-high mill is taken as the research object, and the temperature field calculation model for four-row cylindrical roller bearings is established. Firstly, the mechanical analysis model of FCRB is established on the basis of single row bearing by slice method. Secondly, the mechanical calculation model of FCRB is established by the Newton-Raphson method (NRM) and the finite element method (FEM). Thirdly, based on the mechanical calculation model, the finite element method is used to establish the temperature field model of FCRB under uniform load distribution and non-uniform load distribution. Finally, the temperature test experiment is carried out with the FCRB in the rolling mill fault diagnosis test bench. The results show that the error between the FCRB temperature calculation model and the experimental results is less than 10%. It can be seen that the uneven temperature distribution of FCRB is mainly caused by the uneven load distribution. The temperature distribution along the axial direction of the bearing is related to the load distribution of each column, while the circumferential temperature distribution is related to the azimuth angle.

Comparing clinical outcomes of peroral endoscopic myotomy for achalasia between Eastern and Western countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has revolutionized the therapeutic strategy for achalasia with promising results. We conducted this meta-analysis to compare clinical outcomes between Eastern and Western countries. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science and Cochrane Library databases to query for studies that assessed the efficacy of POEM for achalasia. All articles published from inception to December 31, 2021 were included. The primary outcome was the pooled clinical success rate. The secondary outcomes included the pooled technical success rate, incidence of adverse events, procedure time and hospital stay. Eighteen Eastern studies involving 5962 patients and 11 Western studies involving 1651 patients were included. The pooled clinical success rate and technical success rate for POEM was equal in the Eastern studies compared to Western studies. The pooled incidence of procedure adverse events for POEM was a little lower in the Eastern studies compared to Western studies (6.6% vs. 8.7%). Similarly, the incidence of reflux-related adverse events was lower in Eastern studies than that in Western studies. The pooled procedure time of POEM was shorter in Eastern studies compared to Western studies (61 minutes vs. 80 minutes), while the length of hospital stay was longer in Eastern studies compared to Western studies (5.8 days vs. 2.4 days). Overall, Eastern countries have the similar POEM outcomes compared to Western countries. However, Eastern countries still need to do more to reduce the length of hospital stay.

Exploring into the Unseen: Enhancing Language-Conditioned Policy Generalization with Behavioral Information

Generalizing policies learned by agents in known environments to unseen domains is an essential challenge in advancing the development of reinforcement learning. Lately, language-conditioned policies have underscored the pivotal role of linguistic information in the context of cross-environments. Integrating both environmental and textual information into the observation space enables agents to accomplish similar tasks across different scenarios. However, for entities with varying forms of motion but the same name present in observations (e.g., immovable mage and fleeing mage), existing methods are unable to learn the motion information the entities possess well. They face the problem of ambiguity caused by motion. In order to tackle this challenge, we propose the entity mapper with multi-modal attention based on behavior prediction (EMMA-BBP) framework, comprising modules for predicting motion behavior and text matching. The behavioral prediction module is used to determine the motion information of the entities present in the environment to eliminate the semantic ambiguity of the motion information. The role of the text-matching module is to match the text given in the environment with the information about the entity's behavior under observation, thus eliminating false textual information. EMMA-BBP has been tested in the demanding environment of MESSENGER, doubling the generalization ability of EMMA.

A chromosome-level genome assembly of Sesamia inferens

The pink stem borer, Sesamia inferens (Walker), is a significant polyphagous pest historically restricted to regions south of N34° latitude. However, with changes in global climate and farming practices, the distribution of this moth has progressively exceeded its traditional limit of 34° N and encompassed most regions in North China. The genetic adaptations of S. inferens remain incompletely understood due to the lack of high-quality genome resources. Here, we sequenced the genome of S. inferens using PacBio and Hi-C technology, yielding a genome assembly of 865.04 Mb with contig N50 of 1.23 Mb. BUSCO analysis demonstrated this genome assembly has a high-level completeness of 96.1% gene coverage. In total, 459.72 Mb repeat sequences (53.14% of the assembled genome) and 20858 protein-coding genes were identified. We used the Hi-C technique to anchor 1135 contigs to 31 chromosomes, yielding a chromosome-level genome assembly with a scaffold N50 of 29.99 Mb. In conclusion, our high-quality genome assembly provided valuable resource that exploring the genetic characteristics of local adaptation and developing an efficient control strategy.

Deep learning and machine learning predictive models for neurological function after interventional embolization of intracranial aneurysms

Objective

The objective of this study is to develop a model to predicts the postoperative Hunt-Hess grade in patients with intracranial aneurysms by integrating radiomics and deep learning technologies, using preoperative CTA imaging data. Thereby assisting clinical decision-making and improving the assessment and prognosis of postoperative neurological function.

Methods

This retrospective study encompassed 101 patients who underwent aneurysm embolization surgery. 851 radiomic features were extracted from CTA images. 512 deep learning features are extracted from last layer of ResNet50 deep convolutional neural network model. The feature screening process pipeline encompassed intraclass correlation coefficient analysis, principal component analysis, U test, spearman correlation analysis, minimum redundancy maximum relevance algorithm and Lasso regression, to identify features most correlated with postoperative Hunt-Hess grading. In the model construction phase, three distinct models were constructed: radiomics feature-based model (RSM), deep learning feature-based model (DLM), and deep learning-radiomics feature fusion model (DLRSCM). The study also calculated the radiomics score and combined it with clinical data to construct a Nomogram for predictive modeling. DLM, RSM and DLRSCM model was constructed by 9 base algorithms and 1 ensemble learning algorithm - Stacking ensemble model. Model performance was evaluated based on the area under the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC), Matthews Correlation Coefficient (MCC), calibration curves, and decision curves analysis.

Results

5 significant radiomic feature and 4 significant deep learning features were obtained through the feature selection process. These features were utilized for model construction. Bootstrap resampling method was used for internal validation of the models. In terms of model evaluation, the DLM model, the stacking ensemble algorithm results achieved an AUC of 0.959 and MCC of 0.815. In the RSM model, the stacking ensemble model AUC was 0.935 and MCC was 0.793. The stacking ensemble model in DLRSCM outperformed others, with an AUC of 0.968 and MCC of 0.820. Results indicated that the ANN performed optimally among all base models, while the stacked ensemble learning model exhibited the highest predictive performance.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that the combination of radiomics and deep learning is an effective approach to predict the postoperative Hunt-Hess grade in patients with intracranial aneurysms. This holds significant value in the early identification of postoperative neurological complications and in enhancing clinical decision-making.

Diversified Chemical Structures and Bioactivities of the Chemical Constituents Found in the Brown Algae Family Sargassaceae

Sargassaceae, the most abundant family in Fucales, was recently formed through the merging of the two former families Sargassaceae and Cystoseiraceae. It is widely distributed in the world's oceans, notably in tropical coastal regions, with the exception of the coasts of Antarctica and South America. Numerous bioactivities have been discovered through investigations of the chemical diversity of the Sargassaceae family. The secondary metabolites with unique structures found in this family have been classified as terpenoids, phlorotannins, and steroids, among others. These compounds have exhibited potent pharmacological activities. This review describes the new discovered compounds from Sargassaceae species and their associated bioactivities, citing 136 references covering from March 1975 to August 2023.

Design strategies and biological applications of β-galactosidase fluorescent sensor in ovarian cancer research and beyond

Beta-galactosidase (β-galactosidase), a lysosomal hydrolytic enzyme, plays a critical role in the catalytic hydrolysis of glycosidic bonds, leading to the conversion of lactose into galactose. This hydrolytic enzyme is used as a biomarker in various applications, including enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs), gene expression studies, tuberculosis classification, and in situ hybridization. β-Galactosidase abnormalities are linked to various diseases, such as ganglioside deposition, primary ovarian cancer, and cell senescence. Thus, effective detection of β-galactosidase activity may aid disease diagnoses and treatment. Activatable optical probes with high sensitivity, specificity, and spatiotemporal resolution imaging capabilities have become powerful tools for visualization and real time tracking in vivo in the past decade. This manuscript reviews the sensing mechanism, molecular design strategies, and advances of fluorescence probes in the biological application of β-galactosidase, particularly in the field of ovarian cancer research. Current challenges in tracking β-galactosidase and future directions are also discussed.

A nested spin structure and single molecule magnet behaviour in an Fe8Dy12 heterometallic cyclic coordination cluster

The 20-nuclearity compound [Fe8Dy12(tea)8(teaH)12(NO3)12]·8MeCN (where teaH3 = triethanolamine) was synthesised and characterised through single crystal X-ray diffraction and magnetic measurements. The shape of the magnetic hysteresis in the microSQUID measurements was rationalised using the MAGELLAN program.

Assessing genome-wide adaptations associated with range expansion in the pink rice borer, Sesamia inferens

Understanding the genetic basis of adaptive evolution following habitat expansion can have important implications for pest management. The pink rice borer (PRB), Sesamia inferens (Walker), is a destructive pest of rice that was historically restricted to regions south of 34° N latitude in China. However, with changes in global climate and farming practices, the distribution of this moth has progressively expanded, encompassing most regions in North China. Here, 3 highly differentiated subpopulations were discovered using high-quality single-nucleotide polymorphism and structural variant datasets across China, corresponding to northern, southern China regions, and the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, with significant patterns of isolation by geographic and environmental distances. Our estimates of evolutionary history indicate asymmetric migration with varying population sizes across the 3 subpopulations. Selective sweep analyses estimated strong selection at insect cuticle glycine-rich cuticular protein genes which are associated with enhanced desiccation adaptability in the northern group, and at the histone-lysine-N-methyltransferase gene associated with range expansion and local adaptation in the Shandong population. Our findings have significant implications for the development of effective strategies to control this pest.

Correlation analysis of surgical outcomes and spino-pelvic parameters in patients with degenerative lumbar scoliosis

Objectives

The study aims to analyze factors that affect the postoperative health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of degenerative lumbar scoliosis (DLS) patients and explore the appropriate pelvic incidence minus lumbar lordosis (PI-LL) value for Chinese DLS patients.

Methods

DLS patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were included in this study. General information, spino-pelvic parameters, and HRQOL were collected. Correlation analysis was used to explore the spino-pelvic parameters that affect the postoperative HRQOL. Thresholds of each parameter were obtained using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Regardless of the effect of age, DLS patients were classified into three groups according to the SRS-Schwab classification: group 0 means PI-LL < 10°, group+means PI-LL = 10-20°, and group ++ means PI-LL > 20°. Postoperative HRQOL was analyzed using variance methods. The ROC curve was used to measure the appropriate PI-LL threshold. When considering the effect of age, the patients with Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) < 75% percentile were considered to have a satisfactory clinical outcome, which was drawn to an equation between PI-LL, age, and PI by multiple linear regression equation.

Results

A total of 71 patients were included. Compared with the control group, there were significant differences in both postoperative ODI and Scoliosis Research Society 22 (SRS-22) scores when the postoperative Cobb angle ≤11°, postoperative lumbar lordosis index (LLI) > 0.8, postoperative sagittal vertical axis (SVA) ≤ 5 cm, postoperative T1 pelvic angle (TPA) ≤ 16° and postoperative global tilt (GT) ≤ 22°, respectively. Regardless of the effect of age, there was a statistical difference in postoperative HRQOL between group 0 and group ++. The PI-LL threshold derived from the ROC curve was 14.4°. Compared with the PI-LL > 14° group, the PI-LL ≤ 14° group achieved a lower postoperative ODI score and a higher postoperative SRS-22 score. Considering the influence of age, the equation for ideal PI-LL was PI-LL = 0.52age + 0.38PI-39.4 (R = 0.509, p = 0.001).

Conclusions

PI-LL was an important parameter that affects the postoperative HRQOL of DLS patients. Sufficient LL should be restored during the operation (LL ≥ PI-14°). The appropriate PI-LL value was affected by age. Smaller LL needed to be restored as the age increased.

CXXC5 mitigates P. gingivalis-inhibited cementogenesis by influencing mitochondrial biogenesis

BACKGROUND

Cementoblasts on the tooth-root surface are responsible for cementum formation (cementogenesis) and sensitive to Porphyromonas gingivalis stimulation. We have previously proved transcription factor CXXC-type zinc finger protein 5 (CXXC5) participates in cementogenesis. Here, we aimed to elucidate the mechanism in which CXXC5 regulates P. gingivalis-inhibited cementogenesis from the perspective of mitochondrial biogenesis.

METHODS

In vivo, periapical lesions were induced in mouse mandibular first molars by pulp exposure, and P. gingivalis was applied into the root canals. In vitro, a cementoblast cell line (OCCM-30) was induced cementogenesis and submitted for RNA sequencing. These cells were co-cultured with P. gingivalis and examined for osteogenic ability and mitochondrial biogenesis. Cells with stable CXXC5 overexpression were constructed by lentivirus transduction, and PGC-1α (central inducer of mitochondrial biogenesis) was down-regulated by siRNA transfection.

RESULTS

Periapical lesions were enlarged, and PGC-1α expression was reduced by P. gingivalis treatment. Upon apical inflammation, Cxxc5 expression decreased with Il-6 upregulation. RNA sequencing showed enhanced expression of osteogenic markers, Cxxc5, and mitochondrial biogenesis markers during cementogenesis. P. gingivalis suppressed osteogenic capacities, mitochondrial biogenesis markers, mitochondrial (mt)DNA copy number, and cellular ATP content of cementoblasts, whereas CXXC5 overexpression rescued these effects. PGC-1α knockdown dramatically impaired cementoblast differentiation, confirming the role of mitochondrial biogenesis on cementogenesis.

CONCLUSIONS

CXXC5 is a P. gingivalis-sensitive transcription factor that positively regulates cementogenesis by influencing PGC-1α-dependent mitochondrial biogenesis. Video Abstract.

The influence of big five personality traits on anxiety: The chain mediating effect of general self-efficacy and academic burnout

BACKGROUND

As an important factor affecting personal health, anxiety has always been valued by people. Prior research has consistently shown that personality traits is associated with anxiety level,but little is known about the inner mechanism of this relationship. To fill the gap, the present research aims to explore the chain mediating role of general self-efficacy and academic burnout in the relationship between big five personality and anxiety.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was performed from September to November 2022. Self-reported questionnaires including the Big Five Personality Questionnaire, General Self-Efficacy Scale, College Student's academic burnout Scale, Generalized Anxiety Scale and demographic characteristics were distributed to 2505 college students in a university in Hebei Province, of which 2,471 were valid. Statistical analysis was carried out through SPSS26.0 and SPSS PROCESS macro.

RESULTS

Results showed four of the big five personality characters (i.e., extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and openness) were negatively correlated with anxiety. Neuroticism was positively correlated with anxiety. Moreover, general self-efficacy was found to be negatively correlated with academic burnout and anxiety; academic burnout was positively correlated with anxiety. Finally, general self-efficacy and academic burnout mediated the relationship between personality traits (i.e., extraversion, agreeableness, neuroticism, openness) and anxiety.

CONCLUSIONS

Personality traits (i.e., extraversion, agreeableness, neuroticism, and openness) could influence anxiety through the chain mediating effects of general self-efficacy and academic burnout. Interventions focusing on anxiety reduction may be successful in increasing general self-efficacy and decreasing students' academic burnout.

Hydrolytic nanozymes: Preparation, properties, and applications

Hydrolytic nanozymes, as promising alternatives to hydrolytic enzymes, can efficiently catalyze the hydrolysis reactions and overcome the operating window limitations of natural enzymes. Moreover, they exhibit several merits such as relatively low cost, easier recovery and reuse, improved operating stability, and adjustable catalytic properties. Consequently, they have found relevance in practical applications such as organic synthesis, chemical weapon degradation, and biosensing. In this review, we highlight recent works addressing the broad topic of the development of hydrolytic nanozymes. We review the preparation, properties, and applications of six types of hydrolytic nanozymes, including AuNP-based nanozymes, polymeric nanozymes, surfactant assemblies, peptide assemblies, metal and metal oxide nanoparticles, and MOFs. Last, we discuss the remaining challenges and future directions. This review will stimulate the development and application of hydrolytic nanozymes.

Lactulose vs Polyethylene Glycol for Bowel Preparation: A Single-Center, Prospective, Randomized Controlled Study Based on BMI

INTRODUCTION

Colonoscopy is currently considered as one of the principal techniques to diagnose the colorectal diseases. Admittedly, qualified bowel preparation before colonoscopy is a premise for high-quality examination. Lower quality bowel preparation might seriously impede visualization of the intestinal mucosa, resulting in missed and misdiagnosed intestinal lesions. Therefore, it is necessary to choose the appropriate oral laxative based on the guarantee of safety and efficacy.

METHODS

This prospective randomized controlled study was conducted to compare lactulose oral solution and polyethylene glycol (PEG) electrolyte powder for bowel preparation using the following indicators: Boston Bowel Preparation Scale, Bowel Bubble Score, detection rate of adenoma and lesion, patients' satisfaction, and adverse effects. Our study investigated the suitability of 2 bowel preparation reagents for patients with different body mass indices mainly based on body mass index (BMI).

RESULTS

In the lactulose group, there was a significant improvement in the quality of bowel preparation compared with those in the PEG group ( P < 0.05), especially in people with normal BMI and higher BMI. Compared with the PEG group, individuals in the lactulose group had a significantly higher adenoma detection rate (50% vs 33.5%, P < 0.05) and taste scores (8.82 vs 6.69, P < 0.05), as well as significantly fewer adverse reactions (6.5% vs 32.5%, P < 0.05).

DISCUSSION

Lactulose oral solution is superior to PEG in bowel preparation quality and taste, especially in normal BMI and higher BMI groups. It can be used clinically as a potential and promising bowel preparation agent in the future. Clinical Trial registration number: ChiCTR2100054318.

Unified framework for terahertz radiation from a single- or two-color plasma filament

The plasma filament induced by photo-ionization in transparent media (e.g., air) is a competitive terahertz (THz) source, whose mechanism has been widely studied in two separate schemes, i.e., the one- or two-color femtosecond laser filamentation. However, the physical commonality of these two schemes is less explored currently, and a common theory is in urgent need. Here, we proposed the traveling-wave antenna (TWA) model applicable to both single- and dual-color laser fields, which successfully reproduced the reported far-field THz angular distribution/dispersion from different filament lengths with either a constant or a varied plasma density. This work paves the way toward a deeper understanding of the important laser-filament-based THz sources within the same theoretical framework.

Comparison of lidocaine viscous gargle and topical application on laryngeal mask airway in general anesthesia: A randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the effects and safety of lidocaine viscous gargle on postoperative sore throat (POST) in patients receiving a laryngeal mask airway (LMA) in general anesthesia.

METHODS

In this randomized controlled trial, 90 patients undergoing urological surgery were allocated into 2 treatment arms (n=45): lidocaine viscous gargle before LMA insertion (Group G) and topical application of lidocaine viscous on the LMA (Group T). Outcome data were collected before placement of LMA (T0), after insertion of LMA (T1), immediately (T2), one hour (T3), and 24 hours after removal of LMA (T4). We analyzed the incidence of POST, pharynx dryness, and adverse events.

RESULTS

The incidence of POST was lower in Group G than Group T at T2 (11.1% vs. 28.9%; p=0.063), T3 (11.1% vs. 24.4%; p=0.167), and T4 (2.2% vs. 4.4%; p=0.566), but there was no significant difference between groups. No patient in either group experienced severe pain or treatment-related adverse events. There was a significantly lower incidence of pharynx dryness in Group G than Group T (p<0.05) at T2, T3, and T4.

CONCLUSION

Lidocaine viscous gargle showed no statistically significant difference in incidence of POST and incidence of pharynx dryness compared with topical application of lidocaine on the LMA. Both approaches were safe for patients receiving LMA.Chinese Clinical Trial Register No.: ChiCTR2200059720.

Total iron binding capacity: an independent predictor of prognosis for pulmonary arterial hypertension in systemic lupus erythematosus

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the role of parameters of iron metabolism in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).

METHOD

This was a prospective observational study recruiting patients diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension (SLE-PAH). Patients with other factors that might lead to PAH were excluded from the study. All patients were assessed for PAH every 1-3 months and were followed up for 6 months. The primary outcome was considered improved if the grade of risk stratification declined at the endpoint; otherwise, it was considered unimproved.

RESULTS

In total, 29 patients with SLE-PAH were included in this study. The mean of serum ferritin was higher than normal, and total iron binding capacity (TIBC) decreased in 48% of patients. Correlation analyses showed that serum iron (SI) was negatively correlated with World Health Organization functional class (WHO-FC) (r = -0.409, p = 0.028), and positively correlated with Six-Minute Walk Test distance (6MWD) (r = 0.427, p = 0.021) and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) (r = 0.388, p = 0.037). Primary outcomes improved in 12 patients at the endpoint, and univariate logistic regression analyses indicated that TIBC was associated with improved primary outcomes in patients with SLE-PAH (odds ratio 12.00, 95% confidence interval 1.90-75.72).

CONCLUSION

SI was negatively correlated with WHO-FC, and positively correlated with 6MWD and TAPSE. Furthermore, TIBC was associated with improved outcomes of patients with SLE-PAH, which could be an independent predictor of prognosis. Further research is needed to verify the findings.

Inhibition of the interaction between microglial adenosine 2A receptor and NLRP3 inflammasome attenuates neuroinflammation posttraumatic brain injury

AIMS

Adenosine 2A receptor (A2A R) is widely expressed in the brain and plays important roles in neuroinflammation, and the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain, leucine-rich repeat, and pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is a crucial component of the innate immune system while the regulation of A2A R on it in the central nervous system (CNS) has not been clarified.

METHODS

The effects of microglial A2A R on NLRP3 inflammasome assembly and activation were investigated in wild-type, A2A R- or NLRP3-knockout primary microglia with pharmacological treatment. Microglial A2A R or NLRP3 conditional knockout mice were used to interrogate the effects of this regulation on neuroinflammation posttraumatic brain injury (TBI).

RESULTS

We found that A2A R directly interacted with NLRP3 and facilitated NLRP3 inflammasome assembly and activation in primary microglia while having no effects on mRNA levels of inflammasome components. Inhibition of the interaction via A2A R agonist or knockout attenuated inflammasome assembly and activation in vitro. In the TBI model, microglial A2A R and NLRP3 were co-expressed at high levels in microglia next to the peri-injured cortex, and abrogating of this interaction by microglial NLRP3 or A2A R conditional knockout attenuated the neurological deficits and neuropathology post-TBI via reducing the NLRP3 inflammasome activation.

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrated that inhibition of the interaction between A2A R and NLRP3 in microglia could mitigate the NLRP3 inflammasome assembly and activation and ameliorate the neuroinflammation post-TBI. It provides new insights into the effects of A2A R on neuroinflammation regulation post-TBI and offers a potential target for the treatment of NLRP3 inflammasome-related CNS diseases.