Epidural ropivacaine versus bupivacaine for cesarean sections: a system review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

It is still no consensus on the use of ropivacaine or bupivacaine in epidural anesthesia for cesarean section (CS), because their anesthetic potency and relative complications remains controversial. This system review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the efficacy of epidural ropivacaine and bupivacaine for elective CSs and investigate relative complications for parturients and neonates.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, Science-Direct, and Google Scholar to June 30, 2023 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs), which compared epidural ropivacaine with bupivacaine for elective CSs. The success rate of epidural anesthesia (EA) was primary outcome. The secondary outcomes included onset times of sensory block, maternal side effects, neonatal Apgar scores and umbilical artery pH.

RESULTS

We analyzed 8 RCTs with 532 parturients. 0.75% ropivacaine is associated with a shorter onset time of sensory block than 0.5% bupivacaine (SMD = -0.43, 95% CI: -0.70 to -0.17; p = .001). 0.5% ropivacaine resulted in a reduced nausea than 0.5% bupivacaine (RR = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.28 to 0.83; p = .008). In addition, there were no significant difference between ropivacaine and bupivacaine groups in terms of success rate of epidural anesthesia, maternal side effects (hypotension, bradycardia, shivering), and neonatal Apgar scores and umbilical artery pH.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggest that there were no significant difference between epidural ropivacaine and bupivacaine for elective CSs in terms of the success rate (85.9% vs. 83.5), maternal side effects (hypotension, bradycardia, shivering), and neonatal Apgar scores and umbilical artery pH. But compared with 0.5% bupivacaine, epidural 0.75% ropivacaine was mildly effective for reducing onset time of sensory block and 0.5% ropivacaine reduced the incidence of maternal nausea.

High-performance, stable CoNi LDH@Ni foam composite membrane with innovative peroxymonosulfate activation for 2,4-dichlorophenol destruction

In this study, the cobalt-nickel layered double hydroxides (CoNi LDH) were synthesized with a variety of Co/Ni mass ratio, as CoxNiy LDHs. In comparison, Co1Ni3 LDH presented the best peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation efficiency for 2,4-dichlorophenol removal. Meanwhile, CoNi LDH@Nickel foam (CoNi LDH@NF) composite membrane was constructed for enhancing the stability of catalytic performance. Herein, CoNi LDH@NF-PMS system exerted high degradation efficiency of 99.22% within 90 min for 2,4-DCP when [PMS]0 = 0.4 g/L, Co1Ni3 LDH@NF = 2 cm × 2 cm (0.2 g/L), reaction temperature = 298 K. For the surface morphology and structure of the catalyst, it was demonstrated that the CoNi LDH@NF composite membrane possessed abundant cavity structure, good specific surface area and sufficient active sites. Importantly, ·OH, SO4·- and 1O2 played the primary role in the CoNi LDH@NF-PMS system for 2,4-DCP decomposition, which revealed the PMS activation mechanism in CoNi LDH@NF-PMS system. Hence, this study eliminated the stability and adaptability of CoNi LDH@NF composite membrane, proposing a new theoretical basis of PMS heterogeneous catalysts selection.

Associations between levels of physical literacy and adherence to the 24-h movement guidelines among university students: A cross-sectional study

Objectives

Emerging evidence indicates that the composition of movement behaviours within a 24-h period is associated with multiple health benefits across the lifespan. A concept that emphasises an individual's active lifestyle is physical literacy (PL), yet empirical research exploring the potential associations between PL and 24-h movement guidelines remains scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the associations between levels of PL and adherence to the guidelines among Chinese university students.

Study design

A cross-sectional study.

Methods

Seven hundred and ninety-eight university students (390 male, 19.2 ± 1.2 years) completed all the measurements. Levels of PL and participants' adherence to guidelines including physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep were self-reported through Perceived Physical Literacy Instrument, International Physical Activity Questionnaire and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, respectively. Two-way ANOVA was conducted to determine the associations between the number of guidelines met (0, 1, 2, or 3) and levels of PL.

Results

The results demonstrate that 36.5% (n = 291) of the participants met all the three guidelines, while 4.1% (n = 33) met none. Further analysis indicated that meeting physical activity or sedentary behaviour guidelines was associated with significantly higher total PL scores, and scores in the sub-domains of Confidence and Physical Competence and Motivation.

Conclusions

The findings provide evidence that young adults who obtained higher PL scores may meet more guidelines during a 24-h period. Future studies should incorporate accelerometer-based physical activity measurements and investigate the causal relationship between PL and adherence to the movement guidelines.

Rapid separation of the low concentration Pd from Pd-Pt coexisting systems: Cyano-group's monomer-specific affinity

Rapid separation of low concentration palladium (Pd) from Pd-Platinum (Pt) coexisting systems remains a formidable challenge, primarily due to the undifferentiated substitution of ligands in Pd/Pt complexes by adsorption sites. The development of an adsorbent featuring monomer-specific affinity adsorption sites for Pd/Pt could mitigate this drawback. Herein, Manganese hexacyanoferrate (MnHCF) possessing the sensitivity and specificity to Pd ions (Pd(II)) was synthesized via the facile co-precipitation method. MnHCF could rapidly and selectively capture 90.30 % of Pd(II) from a 10 ppm Pd-Pt coexisting system within just 5 min. Spectroscopic analyses and density functional theory (DFT) calculations indicated that cyano-group (CN) in MnHCF exhibited the monomer-specific affinity for targeted capturing Pd via the direct and strong coordination interaction (Fe-CN-PdCl2), which was co-determined by the electron-losing of C (0.06 e) and N (0.07 e) atom. At the same time, CN could neither react directly with the fully coordinated [PtCl6]2- species nor substitute the Cl- ligand, both of which contributed to the non-adsorption of Pt, thus triggering the Pd-Pt separation. This study provides a promising candidate adsorbent for practical applications in platinum group metals recovery by the design of adsorption sites with monomer-specific affinity.

Low-frequency alternating magnetic field and CaCl2 influence the physicochemical, conformational and gel characteristics of low-salt myofibrillar protein

In this study, the improvement mechanism of low-frequency alternating magnetic field (LF-AMF, 5 mT, 3 h) combined with calcium chloride (CaCl2, 0-100 mM) on the gel characteristics of low-salt myofibrillar protein (MP) was investigated. LF-AMF combined with 80 mM CaCl2 treatment increased solubility (32.71%), surface hydrophobicity (40.86 μg), active sulfhydryl content (22.57%), water-holding capacity (7.15%). Besides, the combined treatment decreased turbidity, particle size and intrinsic fluorescence strength of MP. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) results indicated that the combined treatment altered the secondary structure of MP by increasing β-sheet and β-turn, and reducing α-helix and random coil. The combined treatment also induced a high G' value and shortened T2 relaxation time for forming a homogeneous and compact gel structure. These results revealed that LF-AMF combined CaCl2 treatment could as a potential approach for modifying the gel characteristics of low-salt MP.

Anji white tea relaxes precontracted arteries, represses voltage-gated Ca2+ channels and voltage-gated K+ channels in the arterial smooth muscle cells: Comparison with green tea main component (-)-epigallocatechin gallate

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Tea (Camellia sinensis) is a favorite drink worldwide. Tea extracts and green tea main component (-)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) are recommended for various vascular diseases. Anji white tea is a very popular green tea. Its vascular effect profile, the mechanisms, and the contribution of EGCG to its integrated effect need elucidation.

AIM

To characterize the vasomotion effects of Anji white tea and EGCG, and to explore possible involvement of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (VGCCs) and voltage-gated K+ (Kv) channels in their vasomotion effects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Anji white tea water soaking solution (AJWT) was prepared as daily tea-making process and concentrated to a concentration amounting to 200 mg/ml of dry tea leaves. The tension of rat arteries including aorta, coronary artery (RCA), cerebral basilar artery (CBA), intrarenal artery (IRA), intrapulmonary artery (IPA) and mesenteric artery (MA) was recorded with myographs. In arterial smooth muscle cells (ASMCs) freshly isolated from RCA, the levels of intracellular Ca2+ were measured with Ca2+-sensitive fluorescent probe fluo 4-AM, and Kv currents were recorded with patch clamp. The expressions of VGCCs and Kv channels were assayed with RT-qPCR and immunofluorescence staining.

RESULTS

At 0.4-12.8 mg/ml of dry tea leaves, AJWT profoundly relaxed all tested arteries precontracted with various vasoconstrictors about half with a small transient potentiation on the precontractions before the relaxation. KCl-induced precontraction was less sensitive than precontractions induced by phenylephrine (PE), U46619 and serotonin (5-HT). IPA was less sensitive to the relaxation compared with other arteries. AJWT pretreatment for 1 h, 24 h and 72 h time-dependently inhibited the contractile responses of RCAs. In sharp contrast, at equivalent concentrations according to its content in AJWT, EGCG intensified the precontractions in most small arteries, except that it induced relaxation in PE-precontracted aorta and MA, U46619-precontracted aorta and CBA. EGCG pretreatment for 1 h and 24 h did not significantly affect RCA contractile responses. In RCA ASMCs, AJWT reduced, while EGCG enhanced, intracellular Ca2+ elevation induced by depolarization which activates VGCCs. Patch clamp study showed that both AJWT and EGCG reduced Kv currents. RT-qPCR and immunofluorescence staining demonstrated that both AJWT and EGCG reduced the expressions of VGCCs and Kv channels.

CONCLUSION

AJWT, but not EGCG, consistently induces vasorelaxation. The vasomotion effects of either AJWT or EGCG vary with arterial beds and vasoconstrictors. Modulation of VGCCs, but not Kv channels, contributes to AJWT-induced vasorelaxation. It is suggested that Anji white tea water extract instead of EGCG may be a promising food supplement for vasospastic diseases.

Multi-omics Analysis of Volatile Flavor Components in Pacific Chub and Spanish Mackerel during Freezing using GC-MS-O

This study employed gas chromatography-mass spectrometry with olfactory (GC-MS-O) and multi-omics methods to investigate the changes in volatile flavor compounds during the freezing process of Pacific chub mackerel (Scomber japonicus) from Japan and China, and Spanish mackerel (Scomberomorus niphonius). A total of 18 volatile flavor compounds were identified, and significant differences in volatile flavor components were observed among samples frozen for 1 week, 1 year, and 2 years. The results of the Partial least squares regression (PLSR) indicated that the fishy odor was correlated with independent variables such as fatty acids (FA 22:4, FA 28:6, FA 24:4), differentially expressed genes (Gene.2425 (NDUFA5), Gene.38 (GPX1), and Gene.2844 (DAD1)). Classification and regression tree (CART) analysis revealed that the peak area values of fatty acids (FA 22:5, FA 20:4) and fatty acid esters of hydroxy fatty acids (FAHFA 18:0/22:3) were the main differentiating factors for fishy odor perception.

Machine learning based on functional and structural connectivity in mild cognitive impairment

OBJECTIVE

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a chronic, degenerative neurological disorder characterized by progressive cognitive decline and mental behavioral abnormalities. Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is regarded as a transitional stage in the progression from normal elderly individuals to patients with AD. While studies have identified abnormalities in brain connectivity in patients with MCI, including functional and structural connectivity, accurately identifying patients with MCI in clinical screening remains challenging. We hypothesized that utilizing machine learning (ML) based on both functional and structural connectivity could yield meaningful results in distinguishing between patients with MCI and normal elderly individuals, so as to provide valuable information for early diagnosis and precise evaluation of patients with MCI.

METHODS

Following clinical criteria, we recruited 32 patients with MCI for the patient group, and 32 normal elderly individuals for the control group. All subjects underwent examinations for resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). Subsequently, significant functional and structural connectivity features were selected and combined with a support vector machine for classification of the patient and control groups.

RESULTS

We observed significantly different functional connectivity in the frontal lobe and putamen between the MCI group and normal controls. The results based on functional connectivity features demonstrated a classification accuracy of 71.88% and an area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.78. In terms of structural connectivity, we found that decreased fractional anisotropy in patients with MCI was significantly associated with Montreal Cognitive Assessment scores, specifically in regions such as the precuneus and cingulate gyrus. The classification results using the structural connectivity feature yielded an accuracy of 92.19% and an AUC value of 0.99. Lastly, combining functional and structural connectivity features resulted in a classification accuracy and AUC value of 93.75% and 0.99, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, we demonstrated a high classification performance, underscoring the potential of both brain functional and structural connectivity in distinguishing patients with MCI from normal elderly individuals. Furthermore, the integration of functional connectivity and structural connectivity features indicated that utilizing rs-fMRI and DTI could enhance the accuracy and specificity of identifying patients with MCI compared with relying on a single neuroimaging technique.

Noodles, the all-in-one system for on-target efficiency analysis of CRISPR guide RNAs

The efficiency of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) guide RNA (gRNA) targeting is critical for CRISPR associated protein 9 (Cas9)-dependent genomic modifications. Here, we developed Noodles, an all-in-one system to test the on-target activity of gRNAs easily and efficiently. Single-strand annealing repair mechanism of the split luciferase gene allows a positive selection of gRNAs efficiently driving nuclease activity of Cas9 from Streptococcus pyogenes (SpCas9). Our system can reliably validate in silico-predicted gRNAs before implementing them for in vitro and in vivo applications. Altogether, Noodles might be an asset for researchers and bioengineers, saving their time and efforts, while keeping the screening efficient and sensitive. •All-in-one dual-luciferase system to easily probe on-target activity of gRNAs based on homology-directed repair mechanism.•Easy-to-subclone spCas9-based 2-plasmid system comprising Renilla luciferase for transfection efficiency control.

Acetylation of Rec8 cohesin complexes regulates reductional chromosome segregation in meiosis

For establishing sister chromatid cohesion and proper chromosome segregation in mitosis in fission yeast, the acetyltransferase Eso1 plays a key role. Eso1 acetylates cohesin complexes, at two conserved lysine residues K105 and K106 of the cohesin subunit Psm3. Although Eso1 also contributes to reductional chromosome segregation in meiosis, the underlying molecular mechanisms have remained elusive. Here, we purified meiosis-specific Rec8 cohesin complexes localized at centromeres and identified a new acetylation at Psm3-K1013, which largely depends on the meiotic kinetochore factor meikin (Moa1). Our molecular genetic analyses indicate that Psm3-K1013 acetylation cooperates with canonical acetylation at Psm3-K105 and K106, and plays a crucial role in establishing reductional chromosome segregation in meiosis.

Microbiome and its relevance to indigenous inflammatory bowel diseases in China

BACKGROUND

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract with an unknown etiology. Although dysbiosis is implicated in its pathogenesis, deep sequencing and oral microbiota study in Chinese IBD patients is absent.

AIM

To explore the role of oral / intestinal microbiota in patients with IBD and the potential associations therein.

METHODS

Clinical data, fecal and saliva samples were harvested from 80 patients with IBD (Crohn's disease, CD, n = 69; Ulcerative colitis, UC, n = 11) and 24 normal controls. Microbiomics (16S rRNA sequencing and 16S rRNA full-length sequencing) were used to detect and analyze the difference between IBD patients and normal control.

RESULTS

Compared with normal controls, a higher abundance of the intestinal Shigella spp. (Shigella flexneri and Shigella sonnei, which were positively relate to the severity of IBD), lower abundance of intestinal probiotics (Prevotella, Faecalibacterium and Roseburia), and higher abundance of oral Neisseria were present in IBD patients with microbiome. The higher inflammation-related markers, impaired hepatic and renal function, and dyslipidaemia were present in patients with IBD. A higher intake of red meat and increased abundance of Clostridium in the gut were found in CD patients, while the elevated abundance of Ruminococcus in the gut was showed in UC ones. The bacterial composition of saliva and fecal samples was completely different, yet there was some correlation in the distribution of dominant probiotics.

CONCLUSION

Enteric dysbacteriosis and the infections of pathogenic bacteria (Shigella) may associate with the occurrence or development of IBD.

Characterization of dissolved organic matter in rivers impacted by acid mine drainage: Components and complexation with metals

Dissolved organic matter (DOM), a ubiquitous and active ingredient, is extensively involved in the transformation and migration of environmental pollutants in aquatic ecosystems. However, its chemical composition in acid mine drainage (AMD)-impacted rivers remains poorly characterized, hindering our understanding of its role in the biogeochemistry of key elements in contaminated fluvial environments. Here, we investigated the concentration of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and spectroscopic and molecular characteristics of DOM in a headwater river contaminated with polymetallic mine-derived AMD in southern China. Terrestrial humic-like (C1) and typically groundwater-supplied aromatic protein/tyrosine-like (C2) substances which were partially from AMD, were identified as the predominant fluorescent components in the river water. Notably, tryptophan-like (C3) substances originating from tailings pond spills were only occasionally detected in the river. Although DOM biogeochemical transformations and degradation occurred in the lateral soil-water riparian interface and longitudinal in-stream transport processes, the molecular compositions identified by FT-ICR MS showed a core set of molecular formulae in the lignin/saturated compound/tannin region of the van Krevelen diagram of the water samples across the rivers. The complexation of DOM with typical metals in AMD was investigated using fluorescence quenching experiments. The results showed that the highest binding ability of Fe(III) to C2 followed by C1, with both detected in the experimental water samples. Mg(II) and Ca(II) strengthened the binding of DOM-Fe(III) when the ferric/DOM ratio was low, while Cu(II) weakened the binding of DOM-Fe(III) due to competition. Ca(II) inhibited the binding of Fe(III) to C1 but promoted the binding of the complex to C2 when both Cu(II) and Mg(II) were present. Since DOM-Fe(III) complexation was associated with the cotransport of AMD-derived metals/metalloids in diverse aqueous environments with multiple co-existing ions (typically Ca(II) input for remediation), our study on the composition of DOM and its complexation with metals can contribute to managing and remediating AMD-impacted rivers.

Overexpressing of the GIPC1 protects against pathological cardiac remodelling

OBJECTIVE

Pathological cardiac remodelling, including cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis, is a key pathological process in the development of heart failure. However, effective therapeutic approaches are limited. The β-adrenergic receptors are pivotal signalling molecules in regulating cardiac function. G-alpha interacting protein (GAIP)-interacting protein, C-terminus 1 (GIPC1) is a multifunctional scaffold protein that directly binds to the C-terminus of β1-adrenergic receptor (β1-adrenergic receptor). However, little is known about its roles in heart function. Therefore, we investigated the role of GIPC1 in cardiac remodelling and its underlying molecular mechanisms.

METHODS

Pathological cardiac remodelling in mice was established via intraperitoneal injection of isoprenaline for 14 d or transverse aortic constriction surgery for 8 weeks. Myh6-driving cardiomyocyte-specific GIPC1 conditional knockout (GIPC1 cKO) mice and adeno-associated virus 9 (AAV9)-mediated GIPC1 overexpression mice were used. The effect of GIPC1 on cardiac remodelling was assessed using echocardiographic, histological, and biochemical analyses.

RESULTS

GIPC1 expression was consistently reduced in the cardiac remodelling model. GIPC1 cKO mice exhibited spontaneous abnormalities, including cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis, and systolic dysfunction. In contrast, AAV9-mediated GIPC1 overexpression in the heart attenuated isoproterenol-induced pathological cardiac remodelling in mice. Mechanistically, GIPC1 interacted with the β1-adrenergic receptor and stabilised its expression by preventing its ubiquitination and degradation, maintaining the balance of β1-adrenergic receptor/β2-adrenergic receptor, and inhibiting hyperactivation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase signalling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggested that GIPC1 plays a cardioprotective role and is a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of cardiac remodelling and heart failure.

Modulation of protein-ligand interactions in the presence of ZIF-8: Spectroscopy and molecular dynamics simulation

In this paper, we investigated the protein-ligand interactions in the presence of ZIF-8 using multi-spectroscopic approaches and molecular dynamics simulation. Fluorescence experiments and molecular docking results showed that ZIF-8 did not change the type of quenching and interaction force between ciprofloxacin (CIP) and human serum albumin (HSA), but made the binding constant of HSA-CIP to be smaller, suggesting that ZIF-8 maybe accelerate the dissociation of CIP from HSA-CIP complex. Moreover, the effect of ZIF-8 on the physiological function of HSA was explored. Multi-spectroscopic methods revealed that ZIF-8 did not significantly alter the microenvironment of amino acid groups, but cause a slight decrease in the content of α-helical conformation, and a sparse and flexible structure of the protein backbone. These peculiarities might lead to the diminution of HSA's ability to control drugs. In short, ZIF-8 might enhance drug effect due to affecting the binding of drugs to proteins. However, the present study is only a preliminary investigation of the suitability of ZIF-8 as a drug carrier in vitro, and subsequent in vivo experimental studies will be required to further confirm the idea.

Modulating the pore and electronic structure for targeted recovery of platinum: Accelerated kinetic and reinforced coordination

Adsorption for recovery of low-concentration platinum (Pt) from the complex composition of acidic digestates was challenging because of slow kinetic and poor affinity. It was expected to be overcome by the improvement of pore size distribution and adsorption site activity. Herein, a series of Prussian blue etchings (PBE) with porosity-rich and activity-high cyano (CN) was synthesized to recover low-concentration Pt. The N2 isotherm results showed that the pore structure evolved from mesoporous to microporous. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and density functional theory (DFT) calculations results revealed that the modulation of electronic structure converted FeII to FeIII in [FeII(CN)6]4-. The coexistence of micro- and meso-pore structures provided channels to accelerate adsorption and ensured PtII enrichment. The regulation of Fe valence state activated CN, which reinforced the strength of coordination interaction between Pt and Fe-CN- at N-atom. The adsorption rate and maximum capacity of PBE1 were 4.4 and 2.5 times higher than those of PB, respectively, due to the dual efficacy of accelerated kinetic and reinforced coordination. This study systematically analyzes the pivotal role of pore and electronic structure modulation in adsorption kinetic and affinity, which provides a novel strategy for PtII targeted recovery.

Preparation of strong and tough conductive hydrogel based on Grafting, Fe3+-Catechol complexations and salting out for triboelectric nanogenerators

The development of a strong and tough conductive hydrogel capable of meeting the strict requirements of the electrode of a hydrogel-based triboelectric nanogenerator (H-TENG) remains an enormous challenge. Herein, a robust conductive polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogel is designed via a three-step method: (1) grafting with 3,4-dihydroxy benzaldehyde, (2) metal complexation using ferric chloride (FeCl3) and (3) salting-out using sodium citrate. The hydrogel contains robust crystalline PVA domains and reversible/high-density non-covalent interactions, such as hydrogen bonding, π-π interactions and Fe3+-catechol complexations. Benefiting from the crystalline domains, the hydrogel can resist external forces to the hydrogel network; meanwhile, the reversible/high-density of non-covalent interactions can impart gradual and persistent energy dissipation during deformation. The hydrogel possesses multiple cross-linked networks, with 6.47 MPa tensile stress, 1000 % strain, 35.24 MJ/m3 toughness and 37.59 kJ/m2 fracture energy. Furthermore, the inter-connected porous hydrogel has an ideal structure for ionic-conducing channels. The hydrogel is assembled into an H-TENG, which can generate open circuit voltage of ∼ 150 V, short-circuit current of ∼ 3.0 μA, with superb damage immunity. Subsequently, road traffic monitoring systems are innovatively developed and demonstrated by using the H-TENG. This study provides a novel strategy to prepare superiorly strong and tough hydrogels that can meet the high demand for H-TENGs.

Microbiome dysbiosis by antibiotics protects cartilage degradation in OAOP mice

The role of this study was to evaluate the impact of gut microbiota depletion on the progression of osteoarthritis (OA) and osteoporosis (OP). We conducted an experimental mouse model of OA and OP over an 8-week period. The model involved destabilization of the medial meniscus and bilateral ovariectomy (OVX). To deplete the gut microbiota, we administered a course of antibiotics for 8 weeks. The severity of OA was assessed through micro-CT scanning, X-rays, and immunohistochemical staining. Microbiome analysis was performed using PCR of 16S DNA on fecal samples, and the levels of serum lipopolysaccharide, interleukin 6, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), osteocalcin, and estrogen were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. We found that in comparison to the OVX+OA group, the OVX+OA+ABT group exhibited increased bone mineral density (P < 0.0001), bone volume fraction (P = 0.0051), and trabecular number (P = 0.0023) in the metaphyseal bone. Additionally, cartilage injury and levels of matrix metalloproteinase 13 were reduced in the OVX+OA+ABT group compared to the OVX+OA group. Moreover, the OVX+OA+ABT group demonstrated decreased relative abundance of Bacteroidetes, serum lipopolysaccharide (P = 0.0005), TNF-α (P < 0.0001), CTX-1 (P = 0.0002), and increased expression of bone formation markers. These findings were further supported by correlation network analyses. Depletion of gut microbiota was shown to protect against bone loss and cartilage degradation by modulating the composition of the gut microbiota in osteoporosis and osteoarthritis.

Rational construction of synthetic consortia: Key considerations and model-based methods for guiding the development of a novel biosynthesis platform

The rapid development of synthetic biology has significantly improved the capabilities of mono-culture systems in converting different substrates into various value-added bio-chemicals through metabolic engineering. However, overexpression of biosynthetic pathways in recombinant strains can impose a heavy metabolic burden on the host, resulting in imbalanced energy distribution and negatively affecting both cell growth and biosynthesis capacity. Synthetic consortia, consisting of two or more microbial species or strains with complementary functions, have emerged as a promising and efficient platform to alleviate the metabolic burden and increase product yield. However, research on synthetic consortia is still in its infancy, with numerous challenges regarding the design and construction of stable synthetic consortia. This review provides a comprehensive comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of mono-culture systems and synthetic consortia. Key considerations for engineering synthetic consortia based on recent advances are summarized, and simulation and computational tools for guiding the advancement of synthetic consortia are discussed. Moreover, further development of more efficient and cost-effective synthetic consortia with emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning is highlighted.

Allergen specific immunotherapy regulates macrophage property in the airways

BACKGROUND

Allergen specific immunotherapy (AIT) has been widely used in allergy clinics. The therapeutic effects of it are to be improved. Macrophages occupy the largest proportion of airway immune cells. The aim of this study is to measure the effects of nasal instillation AIT (nAIT) on airway allergy by regulating macrophage functions.

METHODS

An airway allergy mouse model was established with the ovalbumin-alum protocol. nAIT was conducted for mice with airway allergy through nasal instillation. The effects of nAIT were compared with subcutaneous injection AIT (SCIT) and sublingual AIT (SLIT).

RESULTS

Mice with airway allergy showed the airway allergic response, including lung inflammation, airway hyper responsiveness, serum specific IgE, increase in the amounts of eosinophil peroxidase, mouse mast cell protease-1, and Th2 cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. nAIT had a much better therapeutic effect on the airway allergic response than SCIT and SLIT. Mechanistically, we observed better absorption of allergen in macrophages, better production of IL-10 by macrophages, and better immune suppressive functions in macrophages in mice received nAIT than SCIT and SLIT.

CONCLUSIONS

The nAIT has a much better therapeutic effect on suppressing the airway allergic response, in which macrophages play a critical role.

A novel biochar-augmented enzymatic process for conversion of food waste to biofertilizers: Planting trial with leafy vegetable

The present study developed a novel biochar-augmented enzymatic approach for fast conversion of food waste to solid and liquid biofertilizers. By augmented with 10 % of biochar and mediated with 5 % of food waste-derived hydrolytic enzymes mixture (i.e. fungal mash), 100 kg of food waste could be converted into 22.3 kg of solid biofertilizer with a water content of 30 % and 55.0 kg of liquid biofertilizer, which fulfilled Chinese national standards for solid and liquid organic biofertilizers, respectively. Field plantation results showed that the Pak Choi grown on food waste-derived biofertilizers was comparable with that on commercial ones, in terms of the vegetable productivity and nutrient contents. It was further revealed that the application of food waste-derived biofertilizers did not change soil chemical properties but enriched microbial diversity. This study clearly indicated that the biochar-augmented enzymatic approach for food waste conversion to biofertilizers was technically feasible and economically viable towards circular agriculture economy.

Phosphorylation of Rec8 cohesin complexes regulates mono-orientation of kinetochores in meiosis I

In meiosis I, unlike in mitosis, sister kinetochores are captured by microtubules emanating from the same spindle pole (mono-orientation) and centromeric cohesion mediated by cohesin is protected in the following anaphase I. The conserved meiosis-specific kinetochore protein meikin (Moa1 in fission yeast) associates with polo-like kinase: Plo1 and regulates both mono-orientation and cohesion protection. Although the phosphorylation of Rec8-S450 by Plo1 associated with Moa1 plays a key role in cohesion protection, how Moa1-Plo1 regulates mono-orientation remains elusive. Here, we identify Plo1 phosphorylation sites in the cohesin subunits, Rec8 and Psm3. The non-phosphorylatable mutations at these sites showed specific defects in mono-orientation. These results enabled the genetic dissection of meikin functions at the centromeres.

Mechanistic insight into the aggregation ability of anammox microorganisms: Roles of polarity, composition and molecular structure of extracellular polymeric substances

The chemical characteristics of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) of anammox bacteria (AnAOB) play a crucial role in the rapid enrichment of AnAOB and the stable operation of wastewater anammox processes. To clarify the influential mechanisms of sludge EPS on AnAOB aggregation, multiple parameters, including the polarity distribution, composition, and molecular structure of EPS, were selected, and their quantitative relationship with AnAOB aggregation was analyzed. Compared to typical anaerobic sludge (anaerobic floc and granular sludge), the anammox sludge EPS exhibited higher levels of tryptophan-like substances (44.82-56.52 % vs. 2.57-39.81 %), polysaccharides (40.02-53.49 mg/g VSS vs. 30.22-41.69 mg/g VSS), and protein structural units including α-helices (20.70-23.98 % vs. 16.48-19.32 %), β-sheets (37.43-42.98 % vs. 25.78-36.72 %), and protonated nitrogen (Npr) (0.065-0.122 vs. 0.017-0.061). In contrast, it had lower contents of β-turns (20.95-27.39 % vs. 28.17-39.04 %). These biopolymers were found to originate from different genera of AnAOB. Specifically, the α-helix-rich proteins were mainly derived from Candidatus Kuenenia, whereas the extracellular proteins related to tryptophan and Npr were closely associated with Candidatus Brocadia. Critically, these EPS components could drive anammox aggregation through interactions. Substantial amounts of tryptophan-like substances facilitated the formation of β-sheet structures and the exposure of internal hydrophobic clusters, which benefited the anammox aggregation. Meanwhile, extracellular proteins with high Npr content played a pivotal role in the formation of mixed protein-polysaccharide gel networks with the electronegative regions of polysaccharides, which could be regarded as the key component in the maintenance of anammox sludge stability. These findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted roles of EPS in driving anammox aggregation and offer valuable insights into the development of EPS regulation strategies aimed at optimizing the anammox process.

Extracellular matrix stiffness as an energy metabolism regulator drives osteogenic differentiation in mesenchymal stem cells

The biophysical factors of biomaterials such as their stiffness regulate stem cell differentiation. Energy metabolism has been revealed an essential role in stem cell lineage commitment. However, whether and how extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness regulates energy metabolism to determine stem cell differentiation is less known. Here, the study reveals that stiff ECM promotes glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, and enhances antioxidant defense system during osteogenic differentiation in MSCs. Stiff ECM increases mitochondrial fusion by enhancing mitofusin 1 and 2 expression and inhibiting the dynamin-related protein 1 activity, which contributes to osteogenesis. Yes-associated protein (YAP) impacts glycolysis, glutamine metabolism, mitochondrial dynamics, and mitochondrial biosynthesis to regulate stiffness-mediated osteogenic differentiation. Furthermore, glycolysis in turn regulates YAP activity through the cytoskeletal tension-mediated deformation of nuclei. Overall, our findings suggest that YAP is an important mechanotransducer to integrate ECM mechanical cues and energy metabolic signaling to affect the fate of MSCs. This offers valuable guidance to improve the scaffold design for bone tissue engineering constructs.

Resveratrol Promotes Diabetic Wound Healing by Inhibiting Notch Pathway

INTRODUCTION

Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a severe complication that threatens the daily lives of patients with diabetes and represents a serious challenge to the global health system. Considering that impaired wound healing is the leading cause of DFU, exploring the mechanism of diabetic wound healing is beneficial for improving DFU treatment. Resveratrol (RES) is a native polyphenol with various pharmacological characteristics, and recent studies have indicated an accelerated function of RES in diabetic wound healing. As human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) play a significant role in diabetic wound healing, this study aimed to elucidate the regulatory mechanism of RES in HDFs.

METHODS

To mimic diabetic wound healing in vitro, the HDFs were stimulated with high glucose (HG). Our findings revealed that RES reversed HG-induced suppression of HDF proliferation and migration caused by HG. RES inhibits the Notch signaling pathway. More importantly, we demonstrated that the activation of the Notch pathway abrogated the effects of RES on HG-induced HDFs.

RESULTS

In vivo assays also illustrated that RES contributed to wound healing in diabetic mice by blocking the Notch pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, RES improved diabetic wound healing by targeting the Notch pathway, which offers novel insights into DFU therapy.

Interventions to promote the implementation of pressure injury prevention measures in nursing homes: A scoping review

AIMS

To identify studies and the content of the interventions that have facilitated the implementation of pressure injury (PI) prevention measures in nursing home settings.

DESIGN AND METHOD

A scoping review methodology was employed. The author has carried out the following steps successively: Identified this scoping review's questions, retrieved potentially relevant studies, selected relevant studies, charted the data, summarised the results, and consulted with stakeholders from nursing homes in China.

DATA SOURCES

Six electronic databases and three resources of grey literature-PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science Core Collection, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Psych INFO, Open Grey, MedNar, ProQuest Dissertations, and Theses Full Texts were searched from January 2002 through May 2022.

RESULTS

Forty articles were included, among which the primary interventions were quality improvement, training and education, evidence-based practice, device-assisted PI prophylaxis, nursing protocols, and clinical decision support systems. Twenty-three outcome indicators were summarised in 40 articles, which included 10 outcome indicators, seven process indicators, and six structural indicators. Furthermore, only five articles reported barriers in the process of implementing interventions.

CONCLUSION

The common interventions to promote the implementation of PI prevention measures in nursing homes are quality improvement, training, and education. Relatively limited research has been conducted on evidence-based practice, clinical decision support systems, device-assisted PI prophylaxis, and nursing protocols. In addition, there is a paucity of studies examining the impediments to implementing these measures and devising targeted solutions. Therefore, it is recommended that future studies include analysis and reporting of barriers and facilitators as part of the article to improve the sustainability of the intervention.

IMPACT

This article reminds nursing home managers that they should realise the importance of implementation strategies between the best evidence of PI prevention and clinical practice. Also, this review provides the types, contents, and outcome indicators of these strategies for managers of nursing homes to consider what types of interventions to implement in their organisations.

TRIAL AND PROTOCOL REGISTRATION

The protocol of this scoping review was published as an open-access article in June 2022 (Yang et al., 2022).

PENCIL imaging: A novel approach for neuromelanin sensitive MRI in Parkinson's disease

BACKGROUND

Parkinson's disease (PD) is associated with the loss of neuromelanin (NM) and increased iron in the substantia nigra (SN). Magnetization transfer contrast (MTC) is widely used for NM visualization but has limitations in brain coverage and scan time. This study aimed to develop a new approach called Proton-density Enhanced Neuromelanin Contrast in Low flip angle gradient echo (PENCIL) imaging to visualize NM in the SN.

METHODS

This study included 30 PD subjects and 50 healthy controls (HCs) scanned at 3T. PENCIL and MTC images were acquired. NM volume in the SN pars compacta (SNpc), normalized image contrast (Cnorm), and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were calculated. The change of NM volume in the SNpc with age was analyzed using the HC data. A group analysis compared differences between PD subjects and HCs. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis and area under the curve (AUC) calculations were used to evaluate the diagnostic performance of NM volume and CNR in the SNpc.

RESULTS

PENCIL provided similar visualization and structural information of NM compared to MTC. In HCs, PENCIL showed higher NM volume in the SNpc than MTC, but this difference was not observed in PD subjects. PENCIL had higher CNR, while MTC had higher Cnorm. Both methods revealed a similar pattern of NM volume in SNpc changes with age. There were no significant differences in AUCs between NM volume in SNpc measured by PENCIL and MTC. Both methods exhibited comparable diagnostic performance in this regard.

CONCLUSIONS

PENCIL imaging provided improved CNR compared to MTC and showed similar diagnostic performance for differentiating PD subjects from HCs. The major advantage is PENCIL has rapid whole-brain coverage and, when using STAGE imaging, offers a one-stop quantitative assessment of tissue properties.

Posterior open wound healing in immediate implant placement using reactive soft tissue versus absorbable collagen sponge: a retrospective cohort study

The soft and hard tissue healing of open wounds in immediate implant placement are yet to be explored. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes of open wound healing using reactive soft tissue (RST) and absorbable collagen sponge (ACS). Forty implants placed immediately in posterior sockets were included; autologous RST was used in 20 and ACS substitute was used in 20. Soft tissue healing was primarily assessed through a novel scoring system and the evaluation of gingival recession. The horizontal bone width (HBW) and interproximal marginal bone level (MBL) were measured on radiographs to observe the hard tissue healing. No significant difference in total soft tissue healing score was observed at 2 weeks postoperatively. Notably, the ACS group showed better tissue colour (P = 0.016) but worse fibrous repair (P = 0.043) scores than the RST group. Gingival recession levels were comparable in the two groups, both before tooth extraction and after placement of the restoration. Regarding hard tissue, HBW and MBL changes showed no intergroup differences. Within the limitations of this study, both RST and ACS seemed effective for open wound closure, achieving ideal soft and hard tissue healing in immediate implant placement.

Endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced necroptosis promotes cochlear inflammation: Implications for age-related hearing loss

Age-related hearing loss (ARHL) is the most common sensory disorder associated with human aging. Chronic inflammation is supposed to be an important contributor to ARHL. Yet, the underlying mechanisms of developing cochlear inflammation are still not well understood. In this study, we found that the inflammation, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and necroptosis signalings are activated in the cochlea of aged C57BL/6 mice. ER stress activator tunicamycin (TM) induced necroptosis in cochlear HEI-OC1 cells and cochlear explants, while necroptosis inhibitors protected cochlear cells from ER stress-induced cell death. The antioxidants inhibited necroptosis and protected HEI-OC1 cells from TM insults. Necroptotic HEI-OC1 cells promoted the activation of the co-cultured macrophages via Myd88 signaling. Moreover, necroptosis inhibitor protected from TM-induced hearing loss, and inhibited inflammation in C57BL/6 mice. These findings suggest that ER stress-induced necroptosis promotes cochlear inflammation and hearing loss. Targeting necroptosis serves as a potential approach for the treatment of cochlear inflammation and ARHL.

Exploring the inhibitory potential of KPHs-AL-derived GLLF peptide on pancreatic lipase and cholesterol esterase activities

The effective modulation of pancreatic lipase and cholesterol esterase activities proves critical in maintaining circulatory triglycerides and cholesterol levels within physiological boundaries. In this study, peptides derived from KPHs-AL, produced through the enzymatic hydrolysis of skipjack tuna dark muscle using alkaline protease, have a specific inhibitory effect on pancreatic lipase and cholesterol esterase. It is hypothesized that these peptides target and modulate the activities of enzymes by inducing conformational changes within their binding pockets, potentially impacting the catalytic functions of both pancreatic lipase and cholesterol esterase. Results revealed these peptides including AINDPFIDL, FLGM, GLLF and WGPL, were found to nestle into the binding site groove of pancreatic lipase and cholesterol esterase. Among these, GLLF stood out, demonstrating potent inhibition with IC50 values of 0.1891 mg/mL and 0.2534 mg/mL for pancreatic lipase and cholesterol esterase, respectively. The kinetics studies suggested that GLLF competed effectively with substrates for the enzyme active sites. Spectroscopic analyses, including ultraviolet-visible, fluorescence quenching, and circular dichroism, indicated that GLLF binding induced conformational changes within the enzymes, likely through hydrogen bond formation and hydrophobic interactions, thereby increasing structural flexibility. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations supported these findings, showing GLLF's stable interaction with vital active site residues. These findings position GLLF as a potent inhibitor of key digestive enzymes, offering insights into its role in regulating lipid metabolism and highlighting its potential as functional ingredient.

Comparative analysis of two digestive tract reconstruction methods in total laparoscopic radical total gastrectomy

BACKGROUND

The incidence of gastric cancer has significantly increased in recent years. Surgical resection is the main treatment, but the method of digestive tract reconstruction after gastric cancer surgery remains controversial. In the current study, we sought to explore a reasonable method of digestive tract reconstruction and improve the quality of life and nutritional status of patients after surgery. To this end, we statistically analyzed the clinical results of patients with gastric cancer who underwent jejunal interposition double-tract reconstruction (DTR) and esophageal jejunum Roux-en-Y reconstruction (RY).

AIM

To explore the application effect of DTR in total laparoscopic radical total gastrectomy (TLTG) and evaluate its safety and efficacy.

METHODS

We collected the relevant data of 77 patients who underwent TLTG at the Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University from October 2021 to January 2023. Among them, 35 cases were treated with DTR, and the remaining 42 cases were treated with traditional RY. After 1:1 propensity score matching, the cases were grouped into 31 cases per group, with evenly distributed data. The clinical characteristics and short- and long-term clinical outcomes of the two groups were statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

The two groups showed no significant differences in basic data, intraoperative blood loss, number of lymph node dissections, first defecation time after operation, postoperative hospital stay, postoperative complications, and laboratory examination results on the 1^st, 3^rd, and 5^th days after operation. The operation time of the DTR group was longer than that of the RY group [(307.58 ± 65.14) min vs (272.45 ± 62.09) min, P = 0.016], but the first intake of liquid food in the DTR group was shorter than that in the RY group [(4.45 ± 1.18) d vs (6.0 ± 5.18) d, P = 0.028]. The incidence of reflux heartburn (Visick grade) and postoperative gallbladder disease in the DTR group was lower than that in the RY group (P = 0.033 and P = 0.038). Although there was no significant difference in body weight, hemoglobin, prealbumin, and albumin between the two groups at 1,3 and 6 months after surgery, the diet of patients in the DTR group was better than that in the RY group (P = 0.031).

CONCLUSION

The clinical effect of DTR in TLTG is better than that of RY, indicating that it is a more valuable digestive tract reconstruction method in laparoscopic gastric cancer surgery.

Blastomas of the digestive system in adults: A review

Blastomas, characterized by a mixture of mesenchymal, epithelial, and undifferentiated blastematous components, are rare malignant neoplasms originating from precursor blast cells. This review focuses on digestive system blastomas in adult patients, including gastroblastoma, hepatoblastoma, and pancreatoblastoma. Gastroblastoma is a biphasic, epitheliomesenchymal tumor, with only sixteen cases reported to date. In addition to the characteristic histology, metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 - glioma-associated oncogene homolog 1 gene fusion is typical, although recently novel ewing sarcoma breakpoint region 1 - c-terminal binding protein 1 and patched 1 - glioma-associated oncogene homolog 2 fusions have been described. Hepatoblastoma is exceptionally rare in adults and can show a variety of histologic patterns which may cause diagnostic difficulty. Pancreatoblastoma, primarily a pediatric tumor, displays acinar differentiation and squamoid nests with other lines of differentiation also present, especially neuroendocrine. Diagnostic approaches for these blastomas include a combination of imaging modalities, histopathological examination, and molecular profiling. The treatment generally involves surgical resection, which may be supplemented by chemotherapy or radiotherapy in some cases. Prognoses vary with gastroblastoma generally showing favorable outcomes post-surgery whereas hepatoblastoma and pancreatoblastoma often have poorer outcomes, particularly in the setting of metastases. This review highlights the complexity of diagnosing and managing these rare adult blastomas as well as the need for ongoing research to better understand their pathogenesis and improve treatment strategies.

Ferric particle-assisted LDI-MS platform for metabolic fingerprinting of diabetic retinopathy

OBJECTIVES

To explore the metabolic fingerprints of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in individuals with type 2 diabetes using a newly-developed laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (LDI-MS) platform assisted by ferric particles.

METHODS

Metabolic fingerprinting was performed using a ferric particle-assisted LDI-MS platform. A nested population-based case-control study was performed on 216 DR cases and 216 control individuals with type 2 diabetes.

RESULTS

DR cases and control individuals with type 2 diabetes were comparable for a list of clinical factors. The newly-developed LDI-MS platform allowed us to draw the blueprint of plasma metabolic fingerprints from participants with and without DR. The neural network afforded diagnostic performance with an average area under curve value of 0.928 for discovery cohort and 0.905 for validation cohort (95 % confidence interval: 0.902-0.954 and 0.845-0.965, respectively). Tandem MS and Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance MS with ultrahigh resolution identified seven specific metabolites that were significantly associated with DR in fully adjusted models. Of these metabolites, dihydrobiopterin, phosphoserine, N-arachidonoylglycine, and 3-methylhistamine levels in plasma were first reported to show the associations.

CONCLUSIONS

This work advances the design of metabolic analysis for DR and holds the potential to promise as an efficient tool for clinical management of DR.

Anti-hepatocellular carcinoma activity of Sorbaria sorbifolia by regulating VEGFR and c-Met/apoptotic pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Sorbaria sorbifolia (SS) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that has been employed anti-hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) for over 2000 years; yet, its underlying mechanism is still not fully understood.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In this study, we evaluated the anti-HCC effect on the freeze-dried powder of the water extract of SS (FDSS) by inhibiting tumor-induced neovascularization, and promoting apoptosis, and elucidated the underlying mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

HCC cell lines (HepG2 and Huh7 cells) and HepG2 xenograft tumors in zebrafish were employed as in vivo and in vitro models, respectively, to evaluate the anti- HCC-indued neovascularization and apoptosis. In HCC cell lines, CCK-8 assay, wound-healing assay, transwell assay, cell circle assay, apoptosis assay, transmission electron microscopy, and co-culture assay were performed in vitro; in HepG2 xenograft tumor-zebrafish, tumor growth inhibition assay, hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, xenograft tumor-zebrafish apoptosis assay, and HCC-indued neovascularization assay were performed to evaluate the effect of FDSS on biological behavior of tumor, HCC-indued neovascularization, and apoptosis. The expression of VEGFR and c-Met/apoptotic pathway-related proteins was detected by western blotting analysis. Assays for c-Met and VEGFR activation were conducted to assess the impact of FDSS in either agonistic or inhibitory roles on these receptor proteins.

RESULTS

The findings from our study revealed that FDSS effectively suppresses the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HepG2 and Huh7 cells, as well as inhibiting tumor growth in the HepG2 xenograft zebrafish model by downregulating the expression of p-Met and p-AKT proteins. FDSS decreased the tumor growth associated with promoting apoptosis, including arresting HepG2 and Huh7 cells cycle at G0/G1phase, increasing apoptotic cell numbers and apoptotic bodies in cancer cells, and increasing the apoptotic fluorescence of xenograft tumor zebrafish by downregulating Bcl-2 proteins and upregulating Bax, caspase-9, and caspase-3 levels. We also found that FDSS can inhibit HCC-induced neovascularization and regulate VEGFR. Using an agonist or inhibitor of c-Met and VEGFR in HepG2 cells, we discovered that FDSS can downregulate c-Met and VEGFR protein expression.

CONCLUSION

FDSS exerts an anti-HCC effect by inhibiting HCC-indued neovascularization and pro-apoptosis through the inhibition of the action of VEGFR and c-Met/apoptotic pathway.

[Exploration and practice of cardio-oncology]

With the improvement of oncology diagnosis and treatment, the survival time of cancer patients has been significantly prolonged, and the cancer therapy-related cardiovascular toxicity such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and surgery are becoming more and more prominent, and it is in this context that the germ of Cardio-Oncology exploration has come into being. The multidisciplinary Cardio-Oncology team aims to establish a multidisciplinary prevention and control system to assess patients' baseline risk factors, individualized monitoring, and weighing the risk-benefit ratio of cancer therapy. At present, the connotation of the discipline of Cardio-Oncology has been expanded horizontally and deepened vertically in China, and Cardio-Oncology treatment centers have blossomed all over the country. Moreover, international and domestic scholars continue to improve Cardio-Oncology guidelines and consensus through their own practice, and develop artificial intelligence software to help the development of the discipline. It is believed that in the future, with the training of Cardio-Oncologists and the output of high-quality clinical research evidence, cardiovascular safety of cancer patients can be ensured more scientifically and effectively.

[Exploration and validation of optimal cut-off values for tPSA and fPSA/tPSA screening of prostate cancer at different ages]

Objective: To determine the total and age-specific cut-off values of total prostate specific antigen (tPSA) and the ratio of free PSA divided total PSA (fPSA/tPSA) for screening prostate cancer in China. Methods: Based on the Chinese Colorectal, Breast, Lung, Liver, and Stomach cancer Screening Trial (C-BLAST) and the Tianjin Common Cancer Case Cohort (TJ4C), males who were not diagnosed with any cancers at baseline since 2017 and received both tPSA and fPSA testes were selected. Based on Cox regression, the overall and age-specific (＜60, 60-＜70, and ≥70 years) accuracy and optimal cut-off values of tPSA and fPSA/tPSA ratio for screening prostate cancer were evaluated with time-dependent receiver operating characteristic curve (tdROC) and area under curve (AUC). Bootstrap resampling was used to internally validate the stability of the optimal cut-off value, and the PLCO study was used to externally validate the accuracy under different cut-off values. Results: A total of 5 180 participants were included in the study, and after a median follow-up of 1.48 years, a total of 332 prostate cancer patients were included. In the total population, the tdAUC of tPSA and fPSA/tPSA screening for prostate cancer were 0.852 and 0.748, respectively, with the optimal cut-off values of 5.08 ng/ml and 0.173, respectively. After age stratification, the age specific cut-off values of tPSA in the <60, 60-<70, and ≥70 age groups were 3.13, 4.82, and 11.54 ng/ml, respectively, while the age-specific cut-off values of fPSA/tPSA were 0.153, 0.135, and 0.130, respectively. Under the age-specific cut-off values, the sensitivities of tPSA screening for prostate cancer in males <60, 60-70, and ≥70 years old were 92.3%, 82.0%, and 77.6%, respectively, while the specificities were 84.7%, 81.3%, and 75.4%, respectively. The age-specific sensitivities of fPSA/tPSA for screening prostate cancer were 74.4%, 53.3%, and 55.9%, respectively, while the specificities were 83.8%, 83.7%, and 83.7%, respectively. Both bootstrap's internal validation and PLCO external validation provided similar results. The combination of tPSA and fPSA/tPSA could further improve the accuracy of screening. Conclusion: To improve the screening effects, it is recommended that age-specific cut-off values of tPSA and fPSA/tPSA should be used to screen for prostate cancer in the general risk population.

[Therapeutic efficacy analysis of endoscopic combined with serological diagnosis strategy and endoscopic in G1 and G2 gastric neuroendocrine neoplasms]

Objective: To investigate the endoscopic combined serological diagnosis strategy for G1 and G2 gastric neuroendocrine neoplasms (G-NENs), and to evaluate the safety, short-term, and long-term efficacy of two endoscopic treatment procedures: endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). Methods: This study retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 100 consecutive patients with G-NENs who were hospitalized at the Cancer Hospital of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences from January 2011 to October 2023. These patients underwent endoscopic treatment, and propensity score matching (PSM) was used to compare clinicopathological characteristics, as well as short-term and long-term efficacy of lesions in the EMR group and ESD group before and after treatment. Results: Among the 100 patients with G-NENs, the median age was 54 years old. Before surgery, 29 cases underwent endoscopic combined serological examination, and 24 of them (82.2%) had abnormally elevated plasma chromogranin A. The combined diagnostic strategy for autoimmune atrophic gastritis (AIG) achieved a diagnostic accuracy of 100%(22/22). A total of 235 G-NEN lesions were included, with 84 in the ESD group and 151 in the EMR group. The median size of the lesions in the ESD group (5.0 mm) was significantly larger than that in the EMR group (2.0 mm, P＜0.001). Additionally, the ESD group had significantly more lesions with pathological grade G2[23.8%(20/84) vs. 1.3%(2/151), P＜0.001], infiltration depth reaching the submucosal layer [78.6%(66/84) vs. 51.0%(77/151), P＜0.001], and more T2 stage compared to the EMR group[15.5%(13/84) vs. 0.7%(1/151), P＜0.001]. After PSM, 49 pairs of lesions were successfully matched between the two groups. Following PSM, there were no significant differences in the en bloc resection rate [100.0%(49/49) vs. 100.0%(49/49)], complete resection rate [93.9%(46/49) vs. 100.0%(49/49)], and complication rate [0(0/49) vs. 4.1%(2/49)] between the two groups. During the follow-up period, no recurrence or distant metastasis was observed in any of the lesions in both groups. Conclusions: The combination of endoscopy and serology diagnostic strategy has the potential to enhance the accuracy of diagnosing G1 and G2 stage G-NENs and their background mucosa. Endoscopic resection surgery (EMR, ESD) is a proven and safe treatment approach for G1 and G2 stage G-NENs.

Dose-response associations of triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio and triglyceride-glucose index with arterial stiffness risk

BACKGROUND

The triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) ratio and triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index are novel indexes for insulin resistance (IR). We aimed to evaluate associations of TG/HDL-C and TyG with arterial stiffness risk.

METHODS

We enrolled 1979 participants from the Rural Chinese Cohort Study, examining arterial stiffness by brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV). Logistic and linear regression models were employed to calculate effect estimates. For meta-analysis, we searched relevant articles from PubMed, Embase and Web of Science up to August 26, 2023. The fixed-effects or random-effects models were used to calculate the pooled estimates. We evaluated dose-response associations using restricted cubic splines.

RESULTS

For cross-sectional studies, the adjusted ORs (95%CIs) for arterial stiffness were 1.12 (1.01-1.23) and 1.78 (1.38-2.30) for per 1 unit increment in TG/HDL-C and TyG. In the meta-analysis, the pooled ORs (95% CIs) were 1.26 (1.14-1.39) and 1.57 (1.36-1.82) for per 1 unit increment of TG/HDL-C and TyG. Additionally, both TG/HDL-C and TyG were positively related to PWV, with β of 0.09 (95% CI 0.04-0.14) and 0.57 (95% CI 0.35-0.78) m/s. We also found linear associations of TG/HDL-C and TyG with arterial stiffness risk.

CONCLUSIONS

High TG/HDL-C and TyG were related to increased arterial stiffness risk, indicating TG/HDL-C and TyG may be convincing predictors of arterial stiffness.

Biological characteristics of Cordyceps militaris single mating-type strains

Cordyceps militaris has been extensively cultivated as a model cordyceps species for commercial purposes. Nevertheless, the problems related to strain degeneration and breeding technologies remain unresolved. This study assessed the physiology and fertility traits of six C. militaris strains with distinct origins and characteristics, focusing on single mating-type strains. The results demonstrated that the three identified strains (CMDB01, CMSY01, and CMJB02) were single mating-type possessing only one mating-type gene (MAT1-1). In contrast, the other three strains (CMXF07, CMXF09, and CMMS05) were the dual mating type. The MAT1-1 strains sourced from CMDB01, CMSY01, and CMJB02 consistently produced sporocarps but failed to generate ascospores. However, when paired with MAT1-2 strains, the MAT1-1 strains with slender fruiting bodies and normal morphology were fertile. The hyphal growth rate of single mating-type strains (CMDB01, CMSY01, and CMJB02) typically surpassed that of dual mating-type strains (CMXF07, CMXF09, and CMMS05). The growth rates of MAT1-2 and MAT1-1 strains were proportional to their ratios, such that a single mating-type strain with a higher ratio exhibited an increased growth rate. As C. militaris matured, the adenosine content decreased. In summary, the C. militaris strains that consistently produce sporocarps and have a single mating type are highly promising for production and breeding.

Oxidant-Assisted Sulfonylation/Cyclization Cascade Synthesis of Alkylsulfonylated Oxindoles via the Insertion of SO2

An oxidant-assisted tandem sulfonylation/cyclization of electron-deficient alkenes with 4-alkyl-substituted Hantzsch esters and Na2S2O5 for the preparation of 3-alkylsulfonylated oxindoles under mild conditions in the absence of a photocatalyst and transition metal catalyst is established. The mechanism studies show that the alkyl radicals, which come from the cleavage of the C-C bond in 4-substituted Hantzsch esters under oxidant conditions, subsequently undergo the in situ insertion of sulfur dioxide to generate the crucial alkylsulfonyl radical intermediates. This three-component reaction provides an efficient and facile route for the construction of alkylsulfonylated oxindoles and avoids the use of highly toxic alkylsulfonyl chlorides or alkylsulfonyl hydrazines as alkylsulfonyl sources.

A national-scale assessment of land subsidence in China's major cities

China's massive wave of urbanization may be threatened by land subsidence. Using a spaceborne synthetic aperture radar interferometry technique, we provided a systematic assessment of land subsidence in all of China's major cities from 2015 to 2022. Of the examined urban lands, 45% are subsiding faster than 3 millimeters per year, and 16% are subsiding faster than 10 millimeters per year, affecting 29 and 7% of the urban population, respectively. The subsidence appears to be associated with a range of factors such as groundwater withdrawal and the weight of buildings. By 2120, 22 to 26% of China's coastal lands will have a relative elevation lower than sea level, hosting 9 to 11% of the coastal population, because of the combined effect of city subsidence and sea-level rise. Our results underscore the necessity of enhancing protective measures to mitigate potential damages from subsidence.

Copper-Catalyzed Radical Relay 1,3-Carbocarbonylation across Two Distinct C═C Bonds

The radical relay provides an effective paradigm for intermolecular assembly to achieve functionalization across remote chemical bonds. Herein, we report the first radical relay 1,3-carbocarbonylation of α-carbonyl alkyl bromides across two separate C═C bonds. The reaction is highly chemo- and regioselective, with two C(sp3)-C(sp3) bonds and one C═O bond formed in a single orchestrated operation. In addition, the synthesis method under mild conditions and using inexpensive copper as the catalyst allows facile access to structurally diverse 1,3-carbocarbonylation products. The plausible mechanism is investigated through a series of control experiments, including radical trapping, radical clock experiments, critical intermediate trapping, and 18O labeling experiment.

Performance Enhancement of Silicone Rubber Using Superhydrophobic Silica Aerogel with Robust Nanonetwork Structure and Outstanding Interfacial Effect

The application of high-performance rubber nanocomposites has attracted wide attention, but its development is limited by the imbalance of interface and network effects caused by fillers. Herein, an ultrastrong polymer nanocomposite is successfully designed by introducing a superhydrophobic and mesoporous silica aerogel (HSA) as the filler to poly(methyl vinyl phenyl) siloxane (PVMQ), which increased the PVMQ elongation at break (∼690.1%) by ∼9.3 times and the strength at break (∼6.6 MPa) by ∼24.3 times. Furthermore, HSA/PVMQ with a high dynamic storage modulus (G'0) of ∼12.2 MPa and high Payne effect (ΔG') of ∼9.4 MPa is simultaneously achieved, which is equivalent to 2-3 times that of commercial fumed silica reinforced PVMQ. The superior performance is attributed to the filler-rubber interfacial interaction and the robust filler-rubber entanglement network which is observed by scanning electron microscopy. When the HSA-PVMQ entanglement network is subjected to external stress, both the HSA and bound-PVMQ chains are synergistically involved in resisting structural evolution, resulting in the maximized energy dissipation and deformation resistance through the desorption of the polymer chain and the slip/interpenetrating of the exchange hydrogen bond pairs. Hence, highly aggregated nanoporous silica aerogels may soon be widely used in the application of reinforced silicone rubber or other polymers shortly.

2,5-Thiophenedicarboxylic Acid Bridging Hexameric CeIII-Substituted Selenotungstate and Its Application for Detecting Mucin 1

The development of polyoxometalate chemistry not only is derived from the continuous discovery of novel polyoxometalates (POMs) but also stems from the exploitation of their new functionalities. In this work, we obtained a rigid sulfur-containing heterocyclic ligand-linking aggregate [N(CH3)4]10Na6H6[Ce8(H2O)26W8(HTDA)2(TDA)2O20][SeW4O18]2[SeW9O33]4·112H2O (1) (H2TDA = 2,5-thiophenedicarboxylic acid). Its polyanionic unit consists of one [Ce4(H2O)13W4O10(HTDA)(TDA)O10]18+ cluster and two kinds of Keggin-type [SeW4O18] and [SeW9O33] segments. It is noteworthy that H2TDA ligands not only work as connectors to link two symmetrical {[Ce4(H2O)13W4(HTDA)(TDA)O10][SeW4O18][SeW9O33]2}11- units but also function as ornaments to graft to the polyanionic backbone. Furthermore, 1 and 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) were deposited on the glassy carbon electrode (GCE) by the electropolymerization (EPM) method, resulting in a 1-poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (1-PEDOT) composite film, which can provide sufficient binding sites to immobilize Au nanoparticles (Au NPs). Hereafter, the Au NPs-immobilized 1-PEDOT modified electrode (Au/1-PEDOT/GCE) was used to construct an electrochemical aptasensor to detect mucin 1, showing a low detection limit of 29.5 fM in the Tris solution. This work not only demonstrates that rigid heterocyclic ligands are beneficial for the creation of novel rare-earth-substituted selenotungstate hybrids but also provides more enlightenment for POM-based materials used for electrochemical detection of cancer markers.

Mitotic chromosomes are self-entangled and disentangle through a topoisomerase-II-dependent two-stage exit from mitosis

The topological state of chromosomes determines their mechanical properties, dynamics, and function. Recent work indicated that interphase chromosomes are largely free of entanglements. Here, we use Hi-C, polymer simulations, and multi-contact 3C and find that, by contrast, mitotic chromosomes are self-entangled. We explore how a mitotic self-entangled state is converted into an unentangled interphase state during mitotic exit. Most mitotic entanglements are removed during anaphase/telophase, with remaining ones removed during early G1, in a topoisomerase-II-dependent process. Polymer models suggest a two-stage disentanglement pathway: first, decondensation of mitotic chromosomes with remaining condensin loops produces entropic forces that bias topoisomerase II activity toward decatenation. At the second stage, the loops are released, and the formation of new entanglements is prevented by lower topoisomerase II activity, allowing the establishment of unentangled and territorial G1 chromosomes. When mitotic entanglements are not removed in experiments and models, a normal interphase state cannot be acquired.

Oligodeoxynucleotides containing CpG motifs (CpG-ODN) restores immune regulatory functions of airway macrophages of patients with asthma

Allergic asthma is characterized by the polarization of Th2 cells and impaired immune regulation. Macrophages occupy the largest proportion of airway immune cells. This study aims to discover the mechanism that hinders the immune regulatory functions of airway macrophages. In this study, macrophages were isolated from cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluids (BALF) collected from asthma patients and normal control (NC) subjects. The results indicated that macrophages occupied the largest portion of the cellular components in BALF. The frequency of IL-10+ macrophage was significantly lower in asthma patients than in NC subjects. The expression of IL-10 in macrophages of BALF was associated with the levels of asthma-related parameters. The immune-suppressive functions of BALF M0 cells were defective in asthma patients. The inducibility of IL-10 expression was impaired in BALF macrophages of asthma patients, which could be restored by exposing to CpG. In conclusion, the induction of IL-10 in macrophages of BALF in asthma patients was impaired, and it could be restored by exposure to CpG.

Optimizing a five-factor cocktail to prepare reparative macrophages for wound healing

The treatment of non-healing wounds, such as diabetic ulcers, remains a critical clinical challenge. Recent breakthroughs in cell therapy have shown great promise, with one primary focus on preparing cells with comprehensive reparative functions and foreseeable safety. In our previous study, we recapitulated the pro-regenerative and immunosuppressive functions of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in non-tumor-derived macrophages, endowing the latter with characteristics for promoting diabetic wound healing - termed TAMs-educated macrophages (TAMEMs). To eliminate the use of tumor-derived sources and devise a more controllable method to prepare TAMEM-like cells, in this study, we identify a cocktail comprising five recombinant proteins as an essential condition to induce non-polarized macrophages (termed TAMEMs5) into therapeutic cells with pro-healing functions. The screened five factors are osteopontin (OPN), macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-2, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 8 (CCL8), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-B, and macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF). We demonstrate the rationale for screening these factors and the phenotype of TAMEMs5 prepared from murine bone marrow-derived macrophages, which exhibit angiogenic and immunomodulatory effects in vitro. Then, we induce primary human monocytes from periphery blood into TAMEMs5, which show pro-healing effects in a human primary cell-based ex vivo model (T-SkinTM). Our study demonstrates a simple, effective, and controllable approach to induce primary macrophages to possess repairing activities, which may provide insights for developing cell-based therapeutics for non-healing wounds clinically.

Simultaneous removal of ammonia nitrogen, calcium and cadmium in a biofilm reactor based on microbial-induced calcium precipitation: Optimization of conditions, mechanism and community biological response

With the enhancement of environmental governance regulations, the discharge requirements for reverse osmosis wastewater have become increasingly stringent. This study proposes an innovative approach utilizing heterotrophic nitrification and aerobic denitrification (HNAD)-based biomineralization technology, combined with coconut palm silk loaded biochar, to offer a novel solution for resource-efficient and eco-friendly treatment of reverse osmosis wastewater. Zobellella denitrificans sp. LX16 were loaded onto modified coir silk and showed removal efficiencies of up to 97.38, 94.58, 86.24, and 100% for NH4+-N (65 mg L-1), COD (900 mg L-1), Ca2+ (180 mg L-1), and Cd2+ (25 mg L-1). Analysis of the metabolites of microorganisms reveals that coconut palm silk loaded with deciduous biochar (BCPS) not only exerts a protective effect on microorganisms, but also enhances their growth, metabolism, and electron transfer capabilities. Characterization of precipitation phenomena elucidated the mechanism of Cd2+ removal via ion exchange, precipitation, and adsorption. Employing high-throughput and KEGG functional analyses has confirmed the biota environmental response strategies and the identification of key genes like HNAD.

High-Fidelity Assay Based on Turn-Off Fluorescence to Detect the Perturbations of Cellular Proteostasis

The persistence of neurodegenerative diseases has necessitated the development of new strategies to monitor protein homeostasis (proteostasis). Previous efforts in our laboratory have focused on the development of fluorogenic strategies to observe the onset and progression of proteostatic stress. These works utilized solvatochromic and viscosity sensitive fluorophores to sense protein folded states, enabling stressor screening with an increase in the emission intensity upon aggregation. In this work, we present a novel, high-fidelity assay to detect perturbations of cellular proteostasis, where the fluorescence intensity decreases with the onset of proteostatic stress. Utilizing a fluorogenic, hydroxymethyl silicon-rhodamine probe to differentiate between protein folded states, we establish the validity of this technology in living cells by demonstrating a two-fold difference in fluorescence intensity between unstressed and stressed conditions.

Unveiling Crucial Chemical Processing Parameters Influencing the Performance of Solution-processed Inorganic Thermoelectric Materials

Production of thermoelectric materials from solution-processed particles involves the synthesis of particles, their purification and densification into pelletized material. Chemical changes that occur during each one of these steps render them performance determining. Particularly the purification steps, bypassed in conventional solid-state synthesis, are the cause for large discrepancies among similar solution-processed materials. In present work, the investigation focuses on a water-based surfactant free solution synthesis of SnSe, a highly relevant thermoelectric material. We show and rationalize that the number of leaching steps, purification solvent, annealing, and annealing atmosphere have significant influence on the Sn:Se ratio and impurity content in the powder. Such compositional changes that are undetectable by conventional characterization techniques lead to distinct consolidated materials with different types and concentration of defects. Additionally, the profound effect on their transport properties is demonstrated. We emphasize that understanding the chemistry and identifying key chemical species and their role throughout the process is paramount for optimizing material performance. Furthermore, we aim to demonstrate the necessity of comprehensive reporting of these steps as a standard practice to ensure material reproducibility.

The 'Candidatus phytoplasma ziziphi' effectors SJP1 and SJP2 destabilise the bifunctional regulator ZjTCP7 to modulate floral transition and shoot branching

Phytoplasmic SAP11 effectors alter host plant architecture and flowering time. However, the exact mechanisms have yet to be elucidated. Two SAP11-like effectors, SJP1 and SJP2, from 'Candidatus Phytoplasma ziziphi' induce shoot branching proliferation. Here, the transcription factor ZjTCP7 was identified as a central target of these two effectors to regulate floral transition and shoot branching. Ectopic expression of ZjTCP7 resulted in enhanced bolting and earlier flowering than did the control. Interaction and expression assays demonstrated that ZjTCP7 interacted with the ZjFT-ZjFD module, thereby enhancing the ability of these genes to directly bind to the ZjAP1 promoter. The effectors SJP1 and SJP2 unravelled the florigen activation complex by specifically destabilising ZjTCP7 and ZjFD to delay floral initiation. Moreover, the shoot branching of the ZjTCP7-SRDX transgenic Arabidopsis lines were comparable to those of the SJP1/2 lines, suggesting the involvement of ZjTCP7 in the regulation of shoot branching. ZjTCP7 interacted with the branching repressor ZjBRC1 to enhance suppression of the auxin efflux carrier ZjPIN3 expression. ZjTCP7 also directly bound to and upregulated the auxin biosynthesis gene ZjYUCCA2, thereby promoting auxin accumulation. Our findings confirm that ZjTCP7 serves as a bifunctional regulator destabilised by the effectors SJP1 and SJP2 to modulate plant development.