Pseudorabies virus usurps non-muscle myosin heavy chain IIA to dampen viral DNA recognition by cGAS for antagonism of host antiviral innate immunity

Alphaherpesvirus pseudorabies virus (PRV) causes severe economic losses to the global pig industry and has garnered increasing attention due to its broad host range including humans. PRV has developed a variety of strategies to antagonize host antiviral innate immunity. However, the underlying mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. In our previous work, we demonstrated that non-muscle myosin heavy chain IIA (NMHC-IIA), a multifunctional cytoskeleton protein, attenuates innate immune responses triggered by RNA viruses. In the current study, we reported a previously unrecognized role of NMHC-IIA in counteracting PRV-induced cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-dependent type I interferon (IFN-I) production. Mechanistically, PRV infection led to an elevation of NMHC-IIA, strengthening the interaction between poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) and cGAS. This interaction impeded cGAS recognition of PRV DNA and hindered downstream signaling activation. Conversely, inhibition of NMHC-IIA by Blebbistatin triggered innate immune responses and enhanced resistance to PRV proliferation both in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, our findings unveil that PRV utilizes NMHC-IIA to antagonize host antiviral immune responses via impairing DNA sensing by cGAS. This in-depth understanding of PRV immunosuppression not only provides insights for potential PRV treatment strategies but also highlights NMHC-IIA as a versatile immunosuppressive regulator usurped by both DNA and RNA viruses. Consequently, NMHC-IIA holds promise as a target for the development of broad-spectrum antiviral drugs.IMPORTANCECyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) axis plays a vital role in counteracting alphaherpesvirus infections. Alphaherpesviruses exploit various strategies for antagonizing cGAS-STING-mediated antiviral immune responses. However, limited examples of pseudorabies virus (PRV)-caused immunosuppression have been documented. Our findings reveal a novel role of non-muscle myosin heavy chain IIA (NMHC-IIA) in suppressing PRV-triggered innate immune responses to facilitate viral propagation both in vitro and in vivo. In detail, NMHC-IIA recruits poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) to augment its interaction with cGAS, which impairs cGAS recognition of PRV DNA. Building on our previous demonstration of NMHC-IIA's immunosuppressive role during RNA virus infections, these findings indicate that NMHC-IIA acts as a broad-spectrum suppressor of host antiviral innate immunity in response to both DNA and RNA viruses. Therefore, NMHC-IIA will be a promising target for the development of comprehensive antiviral strategies.

Liposomal STAT3-Degrading PROTAC Prodrugs Promote Anti-Hepatocellular Carcinoma Immunity via Chemically Reprogramming Cancer Stem Cells

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) with hyperactivated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) are a major driver of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Herein, we report a nanointegrative proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC)-based STAT3 degradation strategy that enables efficient chemical reprogramming of HCC-associated CSCs, which potently inhibits CSC growth while evoking anti-HCC immune responses. The PROTAC prodrug was synthesized by conjugating the STAT3 binding domain (inS3) with a thioketal-caged E3 ligase ligand (VL-TK) via an oligo(ethylene glycol) linker (OEG) with tuned length and flexibility and encapsulating it in cRGD-modified cationic liposomes for CSC-targeted delivery while facilitating their lysosomal escape. The PROTAC prodrugs were activated by the upregulated ROS levels in CSCs and efficiently degraded STAT3 for chemical reprogramming, which would not only impair their stemness features but also remodel the immunosuppressive TME into an immunosupportive state to boost anti-HCC immunity. This strategy provides an approach for improving HCC treatment in clinics.

Nanointegrative Glycoengineering-Activated Necroptosis of Triple Negative Breast Cancer Stem Cells Enables Self-Amplifiable Immunotherapy for Systemic Tumor Rejection

Triple-negative breast cancer stem cells (TCSCs) are considered as the origin of recurrence and relapse. It is difficult to kill not only for its resistance, but also the lacking of targetable molecules on membrane. Here, it is confirmed that ST6 β-galactoside alpha-2,6-sialyltransferase 1 (ST6Gal-1) is highly expressed in TCSCs that may be the key enzyme involved in glycoengineering via sialic acid (SA) metabolism. SA co-localizes with a microdomain on cell membrane termed as lipid rafts that enrich CSCs marker and necroptosis proteins mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL), suggesting that TCSCs may be sensitive to necroptosis. Thus, the triacetylated N-azidoacetyl-d-mannosamine (Ac3ManNAz) is synthesized as the glycoengineering substrate and applied to introduce artificial azido receptors, dibenzocyclooctyne (DBCO)-modified liposome is used to deliver Compound 6i (C6), a receptor-interacting serine/threonine protein kinase 1(RIPL1)-RIP3K-mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein(MLKL) activator, to induce necroptosis. The pro-necroptosis effect is aggravated by nitric oxide (NO), which is released from NO-depot of cholesterol-NO integrated in DBCO-PEG-liposome@NO/C6 (DLip@NO/C6). Together with the immunogenicity of necroptosis that releases high mobility group box 1(HMGB1) of damage-associated molecular patterns, TCSCs are significantly killed in vitro and in vivo. The results suggest a promising strategy to improve the therapeutic effect on the non-targetable TCSCs with high expression of ST6Gal-1 via combination of glycoengineering and necroptosis induction.

Mechanically Robust Hemostatic Hydrogel Membranes with Programmable Strain-Adaptive Microdomain Entanglement for Wound Treatment in Dynamic Tissues

Supramolecular hydrogels emerge as a promising paradigm for sutureless wound management. However, their translation is still challenged by the insufficient mechanical robustness in the context of complex wounds in dynamic tissues. Herein, we report a tissue-adhesive supramolecular hydrogel membrane based on biocompatible precursors for dressing wounds in highly dynamic tissues, featuring robust mechanical resilience through programmable strain-adaptive entanglement among microdomains. Specifically, the hydrogels are synthesized by incorporating a long-chain polyurethane segment into a Schiff base-ligated short-chain oxidized cellulose/quaternized chitosan network via acylhydrazone bonding, which readily establishes interpenetrating entangled microdomains in dynamic cross-linked hydrogel matrices to enhance their tear and fatigue resistance against extreme mechanical stresses. After being placed onto dynamic tissues, the hydrogel dressing could efficiently absorb blood to achieve rapid hemostasis. Moreover, metal ions released from ruptured erythrocytes could be scavenged by the Schiff base linkers to form additional ionic bonds, which would trigger the cross-linking of the short-chain components and establish abundant crystalline microdomains, eventually leading to the in situ stiffening of the hydrogels to endure heavy mechanical loads. Benefiting from its hemostatic capacity and strain adaptable mechanical performance, this hydrogel wound dressing shows promise for the clinical management of various traumatic wounds.

Polydopamine nanoplatform with near infrared light and pH dual stimuli-responsive for chemo-photothermal cancer therapy

Photothermal agent accompanying with thermally responsive materials, displays well controlled drug release property, which is well-received as an outstanding design strategy for simultaneous photothermal/chemotherapy in cancer. Cyanine dye, as the prestigious photothermal agent has shown great potential due to its preeminent near-infrared absorbance and excellent thermal conversion efficiency. However, their inherent defect such as inferior photothermal stability, high leakage risk and poor therapy efficacy limit their further application in cancer therapy. Hence, a facile and universal strategy to make up these deficiencies is developed. Chemotherapeutic drug DOX and cyanine dye were loaded into polydopamine (PDA) nanoparticles. The PDA encapsulation dramatically improved the photothermal stability of cyanine dye. Attributed by the PDA structure feature, the thermo-sensitive small molecule glyamine (Gla) is introduced into the PDA surface to lessen leakage. The Gla can form a dense encapsulation layer on the dopamine surface through hydrogen bond. This newly fabricated Cyanine/DOX@PDA-Gla nanopaltform is characterized with NIR light/pH dual-responsive property, high NIR photothermal conversion performance and fluorescence guided chemo-photothermal therapy.

[Construction of an evaluation index system for the capability of comprehensive control of mountain - type zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis based on the One Health concept]

OBJECTIVE

To construct an evaluation index system for the capability of comprehensive control of mountain-type zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis based on the One Health concept, so as to provide insights into the control and elimination of mountain-type zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis using the One Health approach.

METHODS

A preliminary evaluation index system was constructed based on literature review, panel discussions and field surveys. Thirty-three experts were selected from 7 provincial disease control and prevention centers in Beijing Municipality, Hebei Province, Shanxi Province, Henan Province, Sichuan Province, Shaanxi Province and Gansu Province where mountain-type zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis was endemic, and two rounds of expert consultations were conducted to screen the indicators. The positive coefficient, degree of concentration, degree of coordination, and authority of the experts were calculated, and the normalized weights of each index were calculated with the analytic hierarchy process.

RESULTS

The response rates of questionnaires during two rounds of expert consultation were both 100.00% (33/33), and the authority coefficients of the experts were 0.86 and 0.88, respectively. The coefficients of coordination among experts on the rationality, importance, and operability of the indicators were 0.392, 0.437, 0.258, and 0.364, 0.335, 0.263, respectively (all P values < 0.05). Following screening, the final evaluation index system included 3 primary indicators, 17 secondary indicators, and 50 tertiary indicators. The normalized weights of primary indicators "external environment", "internal support" and "comprehensive control" were 16.98%, 38.73% and 44.29%, respectively. Among the secondary indicators of the primary indicator "external environment", the highest weight was seen for natural environment (66.67%), and among the secondary indicators of the primary indicator "internal support", the lowest weight was seen for the scientific research for visceral leishmaniasis control (8.26%), while other indicators had weights of 12.42% to 13.38%. Among the secondary indicators of the primary indicator "comprehensive control", the weight was 16.67% for each indicator.

CONCLUSIONS

An evaluation index system has been constructed for the capability of comprehensive control of mountain-type zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis based on the One Health concept. In addition to assessment of the effect of conventional mountain-type zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis control measures, this index system integrates the importance of top-level design, organizational management, and implementation of control measures, and includes indicators related to multi-sectoral cooperation.

An Adaptive Deconvolution Method with Improve Enhanced Envelope Spectrum and Its Application for Bearing Fault Feature Extraction

To address the problem that complex bearing faults are coupled to each other, and the difficulty of diagnosis increases, an improved envelope spectrum-maximum second-order cyclostationary blind deconvolution (IES-CYCBD) method is proposed to realize the separation of vibration signal fault features. The improved envelope spectrum (IES) is obtained by integrating the part of the frequency axis containing resonance bands in the cyclic spectral coherence function. The resonant bands corresponding to different fault types are accurately located, and the IES with more prominent target characteristic frequency components are separated. Then, a simulation is carried out to prove the ability of this method, which can accurately separate and diagnose fault types under high noise and compound fault conditions. Finally, a compound bearing fault experiment with inner and outer ring faults is designed, and the inner and outer ring fault characteristics are successfully separated by the proposed IES-CYCBD method. Therefore, simulation and experiments demonstrate the strong capability of the proposed method for complex fault separation and diagnosis.

Antifungal activity and potential mechanism of action of Huangqin decoction against Trichophyton rubrum

Introduction. Trichophyton rubrum is a major causative agent of superficial dermatomycoses such as onychomycosis and tinea pedis. Huangqin decoction (HQD), as a classical traditional Chinese medicine formula, was found to inhibit the growth of common clinical dermatophytes such as T. rubrum in our previous drug susceptibility experiments.Hypothesis/Gap Statement. The antifungal activity and potential mechanism of HQD against T. rubrum have not yet been investigated.Aim. The aim of this study was to investigate the antifungal activity and explore the potential mechanism of action of HQD against T. rubrum.Methodology. The present study was performed to evaluate the antifungal activity of HQD against T. rubrum by determination of minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs), minimal fungicidal concentrations (MFCs), mycelial growth, biomass, spore germination and structural damage, and explore its preliminary anti-dermatophyte mechanisms by sorbitol and ergosterol assay, HPLC-based ergosterol test, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and mitochondrial enzyme activity test.Results. HQD was able to inhibit the growth of T. rubrum significantly, with an MIC of 3.125 mg ml-1 and an MFC of 12.5 mg ml-1. It also significantly inhibited the hyphal growth, conidia germination and biomass growth of T. rubrum in a dose-dependent manner, and induced structural damage in different degrees for T. rubrum cells. HQD showed no effect on cell wall integrity, but was able to damage the cell membrane of T. rubrum by interfering with ergosterol biosynthesis, involving the reduction of squalene epoxidase (SE) and sterol 14α-demethylase P450 (CYP51) activities, and also affect the malate dehydrogenase (MDH), succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) and ATPase activities of mitochondria.Conclusion. These results revealed that HQD had significant anti-dermatophyte activity, which was associated with destroying the cell membrane and affecting the enzyme activities of mitochondria.

Integrated non-targeted metabolomics and network pharmacology to reveal the mechanisms of berberine in the long-term treatment of PTZ-induced epilepsy

AIMS

The increasing resistance to anti-seizure medications (ASMs) and the ambiguous mechanisms of epilepsy highlight the pressing demand for the discovery of pioneering lead compounds. Berberine (BBR) has received significant attention in recent years within the field of chronic metabolic disorders. However, the reports on the treatment of epilepsy with BBR are not systematic and the mechanism remains unclear.

MAIN METHODS

In this study, the seizure behaviors of mice were recorded following subcutaneous injection of pentetrazol (PTZ). Non-targeted metabolomics was used to analyze the serum metabolites based on ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF/MS). Meanwhile, multivariate statistical methods were used for metabolite identification and pathway analysis. Furthermore, network pharmacology, molecular docking, and quantitative real-time PCR assay were used for the target identification.

KEY FINDINGS

BBR had anti-seizure effects on PTZ-induced seizure mice after long-term treatment. Tryptophan metabolism and phenylalanine metabolism were involved in regulating the therapeutic effects of BBR.

SIGNIFICANCE

This study reveals the potential mechanism of BBR for epilepsy treatment based on non-targeted metabolomics and network pharmacology, which provides evidence for uncovering the pathogenesis of epilepsy, suggesting that BBR is a potential lead compound for anti-epileptic treatment.

Dietary supplementation of proteases on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood characteristics and gut microbiota of growing pigs fed sorghum-based diets

Low-tannin sorghum is an excellent energy source in pig diets. However, sorghum contains several anti-nutritional factors that may have negative effects on nutrient digestibility. The impacts of proteases on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood parameters, and gut microbiota of growing pigs fed sorghum-based diets were studied in this study. Ninety-six pigs (20.66 ± 0.65 kg BW) were allocated into three groups (eight pens/group, four pigs/pen): (1) CON (control diet, sorghum-based diet included 66.98% sorghum), (2) PRO1 (CON + 200 mg/kg proteases), (3) PRO2 (CON + 400 mg/kg proteases) for 28 d. No differences were observed in growth performance and apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of nutrients between CON and PRO1 groups. Pigs fed PRO2 diet had increased (P < 0.05) BW on d 21 and 28, and increased (P < 0.05) average daily gain during d 14-21 and the overall period compared with pigs fed CON diet. In addition, pigs fed PRO2 diet had improved (P < 0.05) ATTD of gross energy, CP, and DM compared with pigs fed CON and PRO1 diets. Pigs fed PRO2 diet had lower (P < 0.05) plasma globulin (GLB) level and higher (P < 0.05) plasma glucose, albumin (ALB) and immunoglobulin G levels, and ALB/GLB ratio than pigs fed CON and PRO1 diets. Furthermore, pigs fed PRO2 diet had decreased (P < 0.05) the relative abundance of Acidobacteriota at the phylum level and increased (P < 0.05) the relative abundance of Prevotella_9 at the genus level. The linear discriminant analysis effect size analysis also showed that pigs fed PRO2 diet had significantly enriched short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria, such as Subdoligranulum and Parabacteroides. In conclusion, protease supplementation at 400 mg/kg improved the growth performance of growing pigs fed sorghum-based diets, which may be attributed to the improvement of nutrient digestibility, host metabolism, immune status and associated with the altered gut microbiota profiles.

Nanointegrative In Situ Reprogramming of Tumor-Intrinsic Lipid Droplet Biogenesis for Low-Dose Radiation-Activated Ferroptosis Immunotherapy

Low-dose radiotherapy (LDR) has shown significant implications for inflaming the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Surprisingly, we identify that FABP-dependent lipid droplet biogenesis in tumor cells is a key determinant of LDR-evoked cytotoxic and immunostimulatory effects and developed a nanointegrated strategy to promote the antitumor efficacy of LDR through cooperative ferroptosis immunotherapy. Specifically, TCPP-TK-PEG-PAMAM-FA, a nanoscale multicomponent functional polymer with self-assembly capability, was synthesized for cooperatively entrapping hafnium ions (Hf4+) and HIF-1α-inhibiting siRNAs (siHIF-1α). The TCPP@Hf-TK-PEG-PAMAM-FA@siHIF-1α nanoassemblies are specifically taken in by folate receptor-overexpressing tumor cells and activated by the elevated cellular ROS stress. siHIF-1α could readily inhibit the FABP3/7 expression in tumor cells via HIF-1α-FABP3/7 signaling and abolish lipid droplet biogenesis for enhancing the peroxidation susceptibility of membrane lipids, which synergizes with the elevated ROS stress in the context of Hf4+-enhanced radiation exposure and evokes pronounced ferroptotic damage in vital membrane structures. Interestingly, TCPP@Hf-TK-PEG-PAMAM-FA@siHIF-1α-enhanced ferroptotic biomembrane damage also facilitates the exposure of tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) to promote post-LDR immunotherapeutic effects, leading to robust tumor regression in vivo. This study offers a nanointegrative approach to boost the antitumor effects of LDR through the utilization of tumor-intrinsic lipid metabolism.

Methylation of ESR1 promoter induced by SNAI2-DNMT3B complex promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition and correlates with poor prognosis in ERα-positive breast cancers

Estrogen receptor α (ERα) serves as an essential therapeutic predictor for breast cancer (BC) patients and is regulated by epigenetic modification. Abnormal methylation of cytosine phosphoric acid guanine islands in the estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) gene promoter could silence or decrease ERα expression. In ERα-negative BC, we previously found snail family transcriptional repressor 2 (SNAI2), a zinc-finger transcriptional factor, recruited lysine-specific demethylase 1 to the promoter to transcriptionally suppress ERα expression by demethylating histone H3 lysine 4 dimethylation (H3K4me2). However, the role of SNAI2 in ERα-positive BC remains elusive. In this study, we observed a positive correlation between SNAI2 and ESR1 methylation, and SNAI2 promoted ESR1 methylation by recruiting DNA methyltransferase 3 beta (DNMT3B) rather than DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) in ERα-positive BC cells. Subsequent enrichment analysis illustrated that ESR1 methylation is strongly correlated with cell adhesion and junction. Knocking down DNMT3B could partially reverse SNAI2 overexpression-induced cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Moreover, high DNMT3B expression predicted poor relapse-free survival and overall survival in ERα-positive BC patients. In conclusion, this study demonstrated the novel mechanisms of the ESR1 methylation mediated with the SNAI2/DNMT3B complex and enhanced awareness of ESR1 methylation's role in promoting epithelial-mesenchymal transition in BC.

TMEM230 modulates seizure in epilepsy: evidence from temporal lobe epilepsy patients and mouse models

Transmembrane protein (TMEM230) is located in secretory/recycling vesicles, including synaptic vesicles in neurons. However, the functional relationship between TMEM230 and epilepsy is still a mystery. The aims of this study were to investigate the expression of TMEM230 in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and two different mice models of chronic epilepsy, and to determine the probable roles of TMEM230 in epilepsy. Our results showed that TMEM230 expression was increased in the temporal neocortex of epileptic patients and the hippocampus and cortex of epileptic mice compared with that in the control tissues. Moreover, TMEM230 was mainly expressed in the neurons in both humans and mice epileptic brain. TMEM230 co-localized with glutamate vesicular transporter 1 (VGLUT-1), but not with vesicular GABA transporter (VGAT). Mechanistically, coimmunoprecipitation confirmed that TMEM230 interacted with VGLUT-1, but not with VGAT in the hippocampus of epileptic mice. Lentivirus mediated overexpression of TMEM230 increased mice susceptibility to epilepsy and behavioural phenotypes of epileptic seizures during the kainite (KA)-induced chronic phase of epileptic seizures and the pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) kindling process, whereas lentivirus-mediated TMEM230 downregulation had the opposite effect. These results shed light on the functions of TMEM230 in neurons, suggesting that TMEM230 may play a critical role in the regulation of epileptic activity via influencing excitatory neurotransmission.

Impact of COVID-19 infection experience on mental health status of intensive care unit patients' family members: a real-world study

PURPOSE

Family members of patients hospitalized in intensive care unit (ICU) are susceptible to adverse psychological outcomes. However, there is a paucity of studies specifically examining the mental health symptoms in ICU patients' family members with a prior history of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection.

AIM

This study aimed to investigate mental health status and its influencing factors of ICU patients' family members with previous COVID-19 infection experience in China.

DESIGN

Nationwide, cross-sectional cohort of consecutive participants of family members of ICU patients from 10 provinces randomly selected in mainland China conducted between October 2022 and May 2023.

METHODS

The basic information scale, Self-rating depression scale, Self-rating Anxiety Scale, Impact of Event Scale-Revised, Pittsburgh sleep quality index, Perceived Stress Scale, Connor-Davidson resilience scale, Simplified Coping Style Questionnaire were employed to explore mental health status among participants.

RESULTS

A total of 463 participants, comprising 156 individuals in Covid-19 family member cohort (infection group) and 307 individuals in control family member cohort (control group), met inclusion criteria. The infection group exhibited significantly higher incidence of composite mental health symptoms compared to control group (P = 0.017). Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that being female, engaging in physical/mental labor, residing in rural areas, and having children were identified as risk factors for the development of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms, while medical history of surgery was protective factor. A predictive model demonstrated a favorable discriminative ability and excellent calibration.

CONCLUSION

COVID-19 infection experience regarded as new traumatic stressors worsen mental health status of ICU patients' family members.

Inhibition of glycolysis-driven immunosuppression with a nano-assembly enhances response to immune checkpoint blockade therapy in triple negative breast cancer

Immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) are promising modalities for treating triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). However, hyperglycolysis, a hallmark of TNBC cells, may drive tumor-intrinsic PD-L1 glycosylation and boost regulatory T cell function to impair ICI efficacy. Herein, we report a tumor microenvironment-activatable nanoassembly based on self-assembled aptamer-polymer conjugates for the targeted delivery of glucose transporter 1 inhibitor BAY-876 (DNA-PAE@BAY-876), which remodels the immunosuppressive TME to enhance ICI response. Poly β-amino ester (PAE)-modified PD-L1 and CTLA-4-antagonizing aptamers (aptPD-L1 and aptCTLA-4) are synthesized and co-assembled into supramolecular nanoassemblies for carrying BAY-876. The acidic tumor microenvironment causes PAE protonation and triggers nanoassembly dissociation to initiate BAY-876 and aptamer release. BAY-876 selectively inhibits TNBC glycolysis to deprive uridine diphosphate N-acetylglucosamine and downregulate PD-L1 N-linked glycosylation, thus facilitating PD-L1 recognition of aptPD-L1 to boost anti-PD-L1 therapy. Meanwhile, BAY-876 treatment also elevates glucose supply to tumor-residing regulatory T cells (Tregs) for metabolically rewiring them into an immunostimulatory state, thus cooperating with aptCTLA-4-mediated immune-checkpoint inhibition to abolish Treg-mediated immunosuppression. DNA-PAE@BAY-876 effectively reprograms the immunosuppressive microenvironment in preclinical models of TNBC in female mice and provides a distinct approach for TNBC immunotherapy in the clinics.

Butyrate Inhibits Dendritic Cell Activation and Alleviates Periodontitis

Dendritic cells (DCs) can mediate inflammation-related bone resorption that is crucial in the development of periodontitis. Butyrate is a critical by-product of microbes with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Here, we found that butyrate inhibited the activation of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced DCs and generation of inflammatory cytokines by DCs. Moreover, butyrate regulated glycolysis in LPS-induced DCs via the G-protein-coupled receptor/hypoxia-inducible factor-1α pathway. In addition, butyrate inhibited the maturation of CD11c+MHC-II+ DCs in vivo, suppressing local inflammatory infiltration and ultimately alleviating bone resorption in a periodontitis model. Our results imply that butyrate suppresses the activation of LPS-induced DCs by modulating their metabolism, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent for inflammatory diseases.

Mechanotransduction in response to ECM stiffening impairs cGAS immune signaling in tumor cells

The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays decisive roles in disabling T cell-mediated antitumor immunity, but the immunoregulatory functions of its biophysical properties remain elusive. Extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffening is a hallmark of solid tumors. Here, we report that the stiffened ECM contributes to the immunosuppression in TME via activating the Rho-associated coiled-coil-containing protein kinase (ROCK)-myosin IIA-filamentous actin (F-actin) mechanosignaling pathway in tumor cells to promote the generation of TRIM14-scavenging nonmuscle myosin heavy chain IIA (NMHC-IIA)-F-actin stress fibers, thus accelerating the autophagic degradation of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (GMP)-AMP synthase (cGAS) to deprive tumor cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP) and further attenuating tumor immunogenicity. Pharmacological inhibition of myosin IIA effector molecules with blebbistatin (BLEB) or the RhoA upstream regulator of this pathway with simvastatin (SIM) restored tumor-intrinsic cGAS-mediated cGAMP production and enhanced antitumor immunity. Our work identifies that ECM stiffness is an important biophysical cue to regulate tumor immunogenicity via the ROCK-myosin IIA-F-actin axis and that inhibiting this mechanosignaling pathway could boost immunotherapeutic efficacy for effective solid tumor treatment.

All-in-One Engineering Multifunctional Nanoplatforms for Sensitizing Tumor Low-Temperature Photothermal Therapy In Vivo

Low-temperature photothermal therapy (PTT) is a noninvasive method that harnesses the photothermal effect at low temperatures to selectively eliminate tumor cells, while safeguarding normal tissues, minimizing thermal damage, and enhancing treatment safety. First we evaluated the transcriptome of tumor cells at the gene level following low-temperature treatment and observed significant enrichment of genes involved in cell cycle and heat response-related signaling pathways. To address this challenge, we have developed an engineering multifunctional nanoplatform that offered an all-in-one strategy for efficient sensitization of low-temperature PTT. Specifically, we utilized MoS2 nanoparticles as the photothermal core to generate low temperature (40-48 °C). The nanoplatform was coated with DPA to load CPT-11 and Fe2+ and was further modified with PEG and iRGD to enhance tumor specificity (MoS2/Fe@CPT-11-PEG-iRGD). Laser- and acid-triggered release of CPT-11 can significantly increase intracellular H2O2 content, cooperate with Fe2+ ions to increase intracellular lipid ROS content, and activate ferroptosis. Furthermore, CPT-11 induced cell cycle arrest in the temperature-sensitive S-phase, and increased lipid ROS levels contributed to the degradation of HSPs protein expression. This synergistic approach could effectively induce tumor cell death by the sensitized low-temperature PTT and the combination of ferroptosis and chemotherapy. Our nanoplatform can also maximize tumor cell eradication and prolong the survival time of tumor-bearing mice in vivo. The multifunctional approach will provide more possibilities for clinical applications of low-temperature PTT and potential avenues for the development of multiple tumor treatments.

Impacts of pregnancy and menopause on COVID-19 severity: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 4.6 million women

BACKGROUND

Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is still a public health emergency of international concern. However, whether pregnancy and menopause impact the severity of COVID-19 remain unclear.

AIM

This study is performed to investigate the truth.

DESIGN

Study appraisal and synthesis follows PRISMA guideline. Meta-analysis is performed in random-effects model.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane database, Central, CINAHL, ClinicalTrials.gov, WHO COVID-19 database and WHO-ICTRP are searched until 28 March 2023.

RESULTS

In total, 57 studies (4 640 275 COVID-19 women) were analyzed. Pregnant women were at a lower risk of severe COVID-19, intensive care unit (ICU) admission and disease mortality compared to those nonpregnant women with comparable comorbidities. In contrast, pregnant women with more prepregnancy comorbidities were at a higher risk of severe COVID-19, ICU admission and invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV). In addition, pregnant women with pregnancy complications had a significantly increased risk of severe COVID-19 and ICU admission. Menopause increased COVID-19 severity, IMV requirement and disease mortality. Hormone replacement therapy inhibited COVID-19 severity in postmenopausal women. Premenopausal and postmenopausal women had a lower chance of severe illness than age-matched men. The impact of pregnancy on COVID-19 severity was significant in Americans and Caucasians, whereas the effect of menopause on COVID-19 severity was only significant in Chinese.

CONCLUSIONS

Pregnancy and menopause are protective and risk factors for severe COVID-19, respectively. The protective role of pregnancy on COVID-19 is minimal and could be counteracted or masked by prepregnancy or pregnancy comorbidities. The administration of estrogen and progesterone may prevent severe COVID-19.

Coordination-driven FBXW7 DNAzyme-Fe nanoassembly enables a binary switch of breast cancer cell cycle checkpoint responses for enhanced ferroptosis-radiotherapy

Radiotherapy is a mainstream modality for breast cancer treatment that employs ionizing radiation (IR) to damage tumor cell DNA and elevate ROS stress, which demonstrates multiple clinically-favorable advantages including localized treatment and low invasiveness. However, breast cancer cells may activate the p53-mediated cell cycle regulation in response to radiotherapy to repair IR-induced cellular damage and facilitate post-treatment survival. F-Box and WD Repeat Domain Containing 7 (FBXW7) is a promoter of p53 degradation and critical nexus of cell proliferation and survival events. Herein, we engineered a cooperative radio-ferroptosis-stimulatory nanomedicine through coordination-driven self-assembly between ferroptosis-inducing Fe2+ ions and FBXW7-inhibiting DNAzymes and further modification of tumor-targeting dopamine-modified hyaluronic acid (HA). The nanoassembly could be selectively internalized by breast cancer cells and disintegrated in lysosomes to release the therapeutic payload. DNAzyme readily abolishes FBXW7 expression and stabilizes phosphorylated p53 to cause irreversible G2 phase arrest for amplifying post-IR tumor cell apoptosis. Meanwhile, the p53 stabilization also inhibits the SLC7A11-cystine-GSH axis, which combines with the IR-upregulated ROS levels to amplify Fe2+-mediated ferroptotic damage. The DNAzyme-Fe-HA nanoassembly could thus systematically boost the tumor cell damaging effects of IR, presenting a simple and effective approach to augment the response of breast cancer to radiotherapy. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: To overcome the intrinsic radioresistance in breast cancer, we prepared co-assembly of Fe2+ and FBXW7-targeted DNAzymes and modified surface with dopamine conjugated hyaluronic acid (HA), which enabled tumor-specific FBXW7-targeted gene therapy and ferroptosis therapy in IR-treated breast cancers. The nanoassembly could be activated in acidic condition to release the therapeutic contents. Specifically, the DNAzymes could selectively degrade FBXW7 mRNA in breast cancer cells to simultaneously induce accumulation of p53 and retardation of NHEJ repair, eventually inducing irreversible cell cycle arrest to promote apoptosis. The p53 stabilization would also inhibit the SLC7A11/GSH/GPX4 axis to enhance Fe2+ mediated ferroptosis. These merits could act in a cooperative manner to induce pronounced tumor inhibitory effect, offering new approaches for tumor radiosensitization in the clinics.

Functionally Tailored Metal-Organic Framework Coatings for Mediating Ti Implant Osseointegration

Owing to their mechanical resilience and non-toxicity, titanium implants are widely applied as the major treatment modality for the clinical intervention against bone fractures. However, the intrinsic bioinertness of Ti and its alloys often impedes the effective osseointegration of the implants, leading to severe adverse complications including implant loosening, detachment, and secondary bone damage. Consequently, new Ti implant engineering strategies are urgently needed to improve their osseointegration after implantation. Remarkably, metalorganic frameworks (MOFs) are a class of novel synthetic material consisting of coordinated metal species and organic ligands, which have demonstrated a plethora of favorable properties for modulating the interfacial properties of Ti implants. This review comprehensively summarizes the recent progress in the development of MOF-coated Ti implants and highlights their potential utility for modulating the bio-implant interface to improve implant osseointegration, of which the discussions are outlined according to their physical traits, chemical composition, and drug delivery capacity. A perspective is also provided in this review regarding the current limitations and future opportunities of MOF-coated Ti implants for orthopedic applications. The insights in this review may facilitate the rational design of more advanced Ti implants with enhanced therapeutic performance and safety.

Injectable microenvironment-responsive hydrogels with redox-activatable supramolecular prodrugs mediate ferroptosis-immunotherapy for postoperative tumor treatment

Immunotherapy is an emerging antitumor modality with high specificity and persistence, but its application for resected tumor treatment is impeded by the low availability of tumor-specific antigens and strong immunosuppression in the wound margin. Here a nanoengineered hydrogel is developed for eliciting robust cooperative ferroptosis-immunotherapeutic effect on resected tumors. Specifically, β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) is first grafted onto oxidized sodium alginate (OSA) through Schiff base ligation, which could trap cRGD-modified redox-responsive Withaferin prodrugs (WA-cRGD) to obtain the hydrogel building blocks (Gel@WA-cRGD). Under Ca2+-mediated crosslinking, Gel@WA-cRGD rapidly forms physiologically stable hydrogels, of which the porous network is used to deliver programmed cell death ligand 1 antibodies (aPD-L1). After injection into the post-surgical wound cavity, the β-CD-entrapped WA-cRGD is detached by the local acidity and specifically internalized by residual tumor cells to trigger ferroptosis, thus releasing abundant damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) and tumor-derived antigens for activating the antigen-presenting cell-mediated cross-presentation and downstream cytotoxic T cell (CTL)-mediated antitumor responses. Furthermore, aPD-L1 could block PD-1/PD-L1 interaction and enhance the effector function of CTLs to overcome tumor cell-mediated immunosuppression. This cooperative hydrogel-based antitumor strategy for ferroptosis-immunotherapy may serve as a generally-applicable approach for postoperative tumor management. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: To overcome the immunosuppressive microenvironment in resected solid tumors for enhanced patient survival, here we report a nanoengineered hydrogel incorporated supramolecular redox-activatable Withaferin prodrug and PD-L1 antibody, which could elicit robust cooperative ferroptosis-immunotherapeutic effect against residual tumor cells in the surgical bed to prevent tumor relapse, thus offering a generally-applicable approach for postoperative tumor management.

Workplace bullying and suicidal ideation and behaviour: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Suicidal ideation and behaviour are potential outcomes of workplace bullying. This review aimed to determine the extent of the association between workplace bullying and suicidal ideation and behaviour.

STUDY DESIGN

The study incorporated a systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement was followed to conduct a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis. A combination of subject terms and free words was used to search nine electronic databases. Two reviewers independently screened articles and extracted information according to the inclusion criteria. A meta-analysis was performed with averaged weighted correlations across samples using the STATA software (version 16.0) from pooled estimates of the main results from all studies.

RESULTS

In total, 25 articles of high or medium quality were included in the systematic review; 15 of these were included in the meta-analysis. The prevalence of suicidal ideation and behaviour was 18% and 4%, respectively. Individuals who experienced workplace bullying had 2.03-times and 2.67-times higher odds of reporting suicidal ideation and behaviour, respectively, after adjustment for confounding factors. Moderating and mediating factors may help reduce the risk of suicidal ideation and behaviour for individuals experiencing workplace bullying.

CONCLUSION

This study indicated that exposure to workplace bullying significantly increased the risk of suicidal ideation and behaviour.

Ferroptosis Nanomedicine: Clinical Challenges and Opportunities for Modulating Tumor Metabolic and Immunological Landscape

Ferroptosis, a type of regulated cell death driven by iron-dependent phospholipid peroxidation, has captured much attention in the field of nanomedicine since it was coined in 2012. Compared with other regulated cell death modes such as apoptosis and pyroptosis, ferroptosis has many distinct features in the molecular mechanisms and cellular morphology, representing a promising strategy for treating cancers that are resistant to conventional therapeutic modalities. Moreover, recent insights collectively reveal that ferroptosis is tightly connected to the maintenance of the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), suggesting the potential application of ferroptosis therapies for evoking robust antitumor immunity. From a biochemical perspective, ferroptosis is intricately regulated by multiple cellular metabolic pathways, including iron metabolism, lipid metabolism, redox metabolism, etc., highlighting the importance to elucidate the relationship between tumor metabolism and ferroptosis for developing antitumor therapies. In this review, we provide a comprehensive discussion on the current understanding of ferroptosis-inducing mechanisms and thoroughly discuss the relationship between ferroptosis and various metabolic traits of tumors, which offer promising opportunities for direct tumor inhibition through a nanointegrated approach. Extending from the complex impact of ferroptosis on TIME, we also discussed those important considerations in the development of ferroptosis-based immunotherapy, highlighting the challenges and strategies to enhance the ferroptosis-enabled immunostimulatory effects while avoiding potential side effects. We envision that the insights in this study may facilitate the development and translation of ferroptosis-based nanomedicines for tumor treatment.

DNAzyme Nanoconstruct-Integrated Autonomously-Adaptive Coatings Enhance Titanium-Implant Osteointegration by Cooperative Angiogenesis and Vessel Remodeling

Orthopedic implants have a high failure rate due to insufficient interfacial osseointegration, especially under osteoporotic conditions. Type H vessels are CD31+EMCN+ capillaries with crucial roles in mediating new bone formation, but their abundance in osteoporotic fracture site is highly limited. Herein, we report a nanoengineered composite coating to improve the in situ osseointegration of a Ti implant for osteoporotic fracture repair, which is realized through inhibiting the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) in endothelial cells (ECs) to stimulate type H vessel formation. Autonomously catalytic DNAzyme-ZnO nanoflowers (DNFzns) were prepared through rolling circle amplification (RCA) of STING mRNA-degrading DNAzymes, which were then integrated on the Ti surface and further sequentially complexed with thioketal-bridged polydopamine and naringenin (Ti/DNFzn/PDA-Nar). ECs and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can be recruited to the implant surface by galvanotaxis, accounting for the negative charges of DNFzn/PDA-Nar, subsequently released Nar under reactive oxygen species (ROS) stimulation to upregulate endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in recruited ECs, leading to enhanced local angiogenesis. Meanwhile, the coordinately released DNFzns would abolish STING expression in ECs to transform the newly formed vessels into Type H vessels, thus substantially promoting the osseointegration of Ti implants. This study provides application prospects for improving implant osteointegration for osteoporotic fracture treatment.

A NARX Model-Based Condition Monitoring Method for Rotor Systems

In this study, we developed a data-driven frequency domain analysis method for rotor systems using the NARX (Nonlinear Auto-Regressive with eXternal input) model established by system vibration signals. We propose a model-based index of fault features calculated in a multi-frequency range to facilitate condition monitoring of rotor systems. Four steps are included in the proposed method. Firstly, displacement vibration signals are collected at multiple monitored rotating speeds. Secondly, the collected signals are processed as output data and the corresponding input data is generated. Then, NARX models are developed with input and output data to characterize the rotor system. Finally, the NRSF (Nonlinear Response Spectrum Function)-based nonlinear fault index is calculated and compared to the healthy condition. An experimental application to the misaligned rotor system is also demonstrated to verify its effectiveness. Our results indicate that the value of the index directly reflects the severity of the misaligned fault.

Structurally dynamic self-healable hydrogel cooperatively inhibits intestinal inflammation and promotes mucosal repair for enhanced ulcerative colitis treatment

Hydrogels are a class of biocompatible materials with versatile functions that have been increasing explored for the localized treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC), but various mechanical stimuli may cause premature hydrogel breakage and detachment, impeding their further clinical translation. Here we report a multifunctional mechanically-resilient self-healing hydrogel for effective UC treatment, which is synthesized through the host-guest interaction between dopamine/β-cyclodextrin-modified hyaluronic acid (HA-CD-DA) and amantadine-modified carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS-AD). The excessive β-CD cavities allow the incorporation of dexamethasone (DEX), while the porous hydrogel network potentiates the encapsulation of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and L-alanyl-l-glutamine (ALG). DA moieties in HA components allow firm adhesion of the hydrogel to the ulcerative lesions after in-situ implantation, while the reversible host-guest interaction between CD and AD could enhance the persistence of hydrogel. The hydrogel demonstrated favorable biocompatibility and could continuously release DEX to induce M1-to-M2 repolarization of mucosal macrophages through inhibiting the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) axis. Furthermore, the co-delivered bFGF and ALG facilitates the regeneration of ulcerative mucosa and restore its barrier functions to ameliorate UC symptoms. The mechanically resilient hydrogel offers an integrative approach for UC therapy in the clinics.

Biomaterial-enabled therapeutic modulation of cGAS-STING signaling for enhancing antitumor immunity

cGAS-STING signaling is a central component in the therapeutic action of most existing cancer therapies. The accumulated knowledge of tumor immunoregulatory network in recent years has spurred the development of cGAS-STING agonists for tumor treatment as an effective immunotherapeutic strategy. However, the clinical translation of these agonists is thus far unsatisfactory because of the low immunostimulatory efficacy and unrestricted side effects under clinically relevant conditions. Interestingly, the rational integration of biomaterial technology offers a promising approach to overcome these limitations for more effective and safer cGAS-STING-mediated tumor therapy. Herein, we first outline the cGAS-STING signaling axis and generally discuss its association with tumors. We then symmetrically summarize the recent progress in those biomaterial-based cGAS-STING agonism strategies to generate robust antitumor immunity, categorized by the chemical nature of those cGAS-STING stimulants and carrier substrates. Finally, a perspective is provided to discuss the existing challenges and potential opportunities in cGAS-STING modulation for tumor therapy.

First Observation of the β3αp Decay of ^{13}O via β-Delayed Charged-Particle Spectroscopy

The β-delayed proton decay of ^{13}O has previously been studied, but the direct observation of β-delayed 3αp decay has not been reported. Rare 3αp events from the decay of excited states in ^{13}N^{⋆} provide a sensitive probe of cluster configurations in ^{13}N. To measure the low-energy products following β-delayed 3αp decay, the Texas Active Target (TexAT) time projection chamber was employed using the one-at-a-time β-delayed charged-particle spectroscopy technique at the Cyclotron Institute, Texas A&M University. A total of 1.9×10^{5} ^{13}O implantations were made inside the TexAT time projection chamber. A total of 149 3αp events were observed, yielding a β-delayed 3αp branching ratio of 0.078(6)%. Four previously unknown α-decaying excited states were observed in ^{13}N at 11.3, 12.4, 13.1, and 13.7 MeV decaying via the 3α+p channel.

Enhanced Immunogenic Cell Death and Antigen Presentation via Engineered Bifidobacterium bifidum to Boost Chemo-immunotherapy

The immunogenic cell death (ICD) of tumor cells has aroused great interest in the field of immunotherapy, mainly due to the production of plentiful tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) and damage-associated molecule patterns. However, doxorubicin (DOX)-induced tumor-specific T-cell-mediated immune response is usually very weak because of antigen presentation deficiency and the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (ITME). Herein, the probiotic Bifidobacterium bifidum (Bi) was covalently modified with DOX-loaded CaP/SiO₂ nanoparticles (DNPs@Bi) for tumor therapy. On one hand, the pH-responsive release of DOX could induce chemotherapy and ICD in the ITME. On the other hand, tumor-targeting Bi is able to significantly enhance the presentation of TAAs from B16F10 cells to DCs via Cx43-dependent gap junctions. Due to the combination of enhanced ICD and TAAs presentation, the maturation of DCs and the infiltration of cytotoxic T lymphocytes in the ITME were stimulated. As a result, in vivo antitumor experiments demonstrated that DNPs@Bi prolonged the survival rate and significantly inhibited the tumor progression and metastasis. This strategy of bacterial-driven hypoxia-targeting delivery systems offers a promising approach to tumor chemo-immunotherapy.

Analysis of Mechanical Properties and Fatigue Life of Microturbine Angular Contact Ball Bearings under Eccentric Load Conditions

Angular contact ball bearings are common basic components in rotating machinery. During the operation of the bearing, the rolling slips, resulting in contact sliding friction between it and the raceway, which in turn causes wear in the rolling element and increase in the radial clearance of the bearing. The increase in clearance also affects the stiffness of the bearing, which in turn affects the natural frequency and fatigue life of the bearing. At present, there are few studies on the influence of bearing wear (variation of clearance) on life. In this paper, the finite element model based on the theory of contact mechanics is established for the angular contact ball bearing with medium- and high-speed rotation, and the mechanical properties and fatigue life influenced by the internal action of the bearing are analyzed. The effects of radial load and deflection angle on the mechanical properties and fatigue life of the bearing are also studied. Based on the analysis results of bearing contact mechanical properties and clearance changes, the calculation method of bearing life under rolling element wear is established. The influence of the variation of clearance and preload clearance on bearing life is analyzed, and the optimal preload is obtained. The research results of this paper can provide a theoretical basis for optimizing the installation of angular contact ball bearings, reasonably determining the service conditions, and prolonging the service life of bearings, which is necessary for engineering practice.

Pharmacokinetics and safety of Padsevonil in healthy Chinese subjects and comparison of two sampling methods for Padsevonil quantification

OBJECTIVE

Padsevonil (PSL) is a novel antiepileptic drug candidate that inhibits seizure activity in both presynaptic and postsynaptic ways. The pharmacokinetic (PK) profiles and volumetric absorptive microsampling (VAMS) application of PSL in the Chinese population are limited. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the PK profile of PSL and its 2 metabolites, the safety of PSL, and compare the PK profile of PSL from samples collected using the VAMS technique with that of conventional venous samples in healthy Chinese subjects.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled single-dose study, the participants received either 200 mg PSL or placebo. Blood samples for the PK variables were collected using both the traditional venous method and the VAMS Mitra® technique at the scheduled time points. The PK parameters of PSL and 2 metabolites were calculated, and the concentration agreement of VAMS and venous samples were also evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 14 subjects were enrolled. The concentration-time profile of PSL showed rapid absorption with a median tmax of 1.25 h (range: 0.5 to 3.0), followed by an apparent biphasic disposition. For PSL, the geometric means of AUC(0-t), AUC, Cmax, and t1/2 were 6,573 h*ng/mL, 6,588 h*ng/mL, 1,387 ng/mL, and 5.275 h, respectively. The geometric mean body weight-normalized AUC(0-t), AUC, and Cmax were 5,712 h*ng/mL, 5,725 h*ng/mL, and 1,205 ng/mL, respectively. The AUC(0-t), AUC, Cmax of PSL and metabolites in VAMS-dried blood were all lower than those in plasma. The Passing-Bablok regression showed that the PSL and metabolite concentrations obtained by VAMS analysis were comparable to those obtained by plasma at some time points. The most frequently reported treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were somnolence and dizziness. There were no serious TEAEs, severe TEAEs, discontinuations due to TEAEs, or deaths reported during this study. No clinically significant laboratory, vital signs, electrocardiograph (ECG), or physical examination results were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

PSL has a favorable PK profile after single-dose oral administration and good safety properties in healthy Chinese volunteers. The regression analysis results of VAMS and plasma indicated that the application of VAMS for therapeutic drug monitoring in novel antiepileptic drug development is promising and needs further validation.

Approach to the Quantitative Diagnosis of Rolling Bearings Based on Optimized VMD and Lempel-Ziv Complexity under Varying Conditions

The quantitative diagnosis of rolling bearings is essential to automating maintenance decisions. Over recent years, Lempel-Ziv complexity (LZC) has been widely used for the quantitative assessment of mechanical failures as one of the most valuable indicators for detecting dynamic changes in nonlinear signals. However, LZC focuses on the binary conversion of 0-1 code, which can easily lose some effective information about the time series and cannot fully mine the fault characteristics. Additionally, the immunity of LZC to noise cannot be insured, and it is difficult to quantitatively characterize the fault signal under strong background noise. To overcome these limitations, a quantitative bearing fault diagnosis method based on the optimized Variational Modal Decomposition Lempel-Ziv complexity (VMD-LZC) was developed to fully extract the vibration characteristics and to quantitatively characterize the bearing faults under variable operating conditions. First, to compensate for the deficiency that the main parameters of the variational modal decomposition (VMD) have to be selected by human experience, a genetic algorithm (GA) is used to optimize the parameters of the VMD and adaptively determine the optimal parameters [k, α] of the bearing fault signal. Furthermore, the IMF components that contain the maximum fault information are selected for signal reconstruction based on the Kurtosis theory. The Lempel-Ziv index of the reconstructed signal is calculated and then weighted and summed to obtain the Lempel-Ziv composite index. The experimental results show that the proposed method is of high application value for the quantitative assessment and classification of bearing faults in turbine rolling bearings under various operating conditions such as mild and severe crack faults and variable loads.

Calcium Phosphate-Based Nanoformulation Selectively Abolishes Phenytoin Resistance in Epileptic Neurons for Ceasing Seizures

Phenytoin (PHT) is a first-line antiepileptic drug in clinics, which could decrease neuronal bioelectric activity by blocking the voltage-operated sodium channels. However, the intrinsically low blood-brain-barrier (BBB)-crossing capability of PHT and upregulated expression level of the efflux transporter p-glycoprotein (P-gp) coded by the gene Abcb1 in epileptic neurons limit its efficacy in vivo. Herein, a nanointegrated strategy to overcome PHT resistance mechanisms for enhanced antiepileptic efficacy is reported. Specifically, PHT is first incorporated into calcium phosphate (CaP) nanoparticles through biomineralization, followed by the surface modification of the PEGylated BBB-penetrating TAT peptide. The CaP@PHT-PEG-TAT nanoformulation could effectively cross the BBB to be taken in by epileptic neurons. Afterward, the acidic lysosomal environment would trigger their complete degradation to release Ca²⁺ and PHT into the cytosol. Ca²⁺ ions would inhibit mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation to reverse cellular hypoxia to block hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (Hif1α)-Abcb1-axis, as well as disrupt adenosine triphosphate generation, leading to simultaneous suppression of the expression and drug efflux capacity of P-gp to enhance PHT retention. This study offers an approach for effective therapeutic intervention against drug-resistant epilepsy.

Multifunctional antibiotics-free hydrogel dressings with self-regulated nitric oxide-releasing kinetics for improving open wound healing

Healing of large open wounds remains a major challenge in clinics due to the high risk of bacterial infection and slow healing rates, while excessive use of antibiotics would cause enhanced antibiotic resistance and reduced biocompatibility. Herein, we developed a multifunctional hydrogel dressing (GCNO) through embedding nitrosothiol-conjugated chitosan into a crosslinked gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) network via hydrogen bonding, which presented self-regulated nitric oxide (NO) release kinetics for temporally controlled bacterial elimination and wound repair. At early stages after implantation, the positively charged chitosan molecules of the GCNO hydrogel precursors and release of a high level of NO from the GCNO hydrogel demonstrated effective coordinated antimicrobial capability, thus preventing wound infection in the early stages of healing. While at later stages of wound healing, the hydrogel could sustainably release low levels of NO to stimulate the proliferation and migration of fibroblasts and endothelial cells, leading to accelerated angiogenesis and cell deposition at the wound area. GCNO hydrogels exhibited anti-bacterial and wound repair performance with excellent biocompatibility and biosafety. Overall, this antibiotic-free GCNO hydrogel could demonstrate self-adaptive NO release profiles to prevent bacterial infection in early stages of wound healing while accelerating skin regeneration at later stages, which may offer new insights for the clinical management of large open wounds in clinics.

Prevalence and risk factors of erectile dysfunction in COVID-19 patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Studies have found that erectile dysfunction (ED) may be a short-term or long-term complication in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients, but no relevant studies have completed a pooled analysis of this claim. The purpose of the review was to comprehensively search the relevant literature, summarize the prevalence of ED in COVID-19 patients, assess risk factors for its development, and explore the effect of the COVID-19 infection on erectile function.

METHODS

Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Library was performed from database inception until April 14, 2022. Heterogeneity was analyzed by χ² tests and I² was used as a quantitative test of heterogeneity. Subgroup analyses, meta-regression, and sensitivity analyses were used to analyze sources of heterogeneity.

RESULTS

Our review included 8 studies, 4 of which functioned as a control group. There were 250,606 COVID-19 patients (mean age: 31-47.1 years, sample size: 23-246,990). The control group consisted of 10,844,200 individuals (mean age: 32.76-42.4 years, sample size 75-10,836,663). The prevalence of ED was 33% (95% CI 18-47%, I² = 99.48%) in COVID-19 patients. The prevalence of ED based on the international coding of diseases (ICD-10) was 9% (95% CI 2-19%), which was significantly lower than the prevalence of ED diagnosed based on the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) (46%, 95% CI 22-71%, I² = 96.72%). The pooling prevalence of ED was 50% (95% CI 34-67%, I² = 81.54%) for articles published in 2021, significantly higher than that for articles published in 2022 (17%, 95% CI 7-30%, I² = 99.55%). The relative risk of developing ED was 2.64 times in COVID-19 patients higher than in non-COVID-19 patients (RR: 2.64, 95% CI 1.01-6.88). The GRADE-pro score showed that the mean incidence of ED events in COVID-19 patients was 1,333/50,606 (2.6%) compared with 52,937/844,200 (0.4%) in controls; the absolute impact of COVID-19 on ED was 656/100,000 (ranging from 4/100,000 to 2352/100,000). Anxiety (OR: 1.13, 95% CI 1.03-1.26, I² = 0.0%) in COVID-19 patients was a risk factor for ED.

CONCLUSION

COVID-19 patients have a high risk and prevalence of ED, mainly driven by anxiety. Attention should be paid to patient's erectile functioning when treating COVID-19.

Designing supramolecular self-assembly nanomaterials as stimuli-responsive drug delivery platforms for cancer therapy

Stimuli-responsive nanomaterials have attracted substantial interest in cancer therapy, as they hold promise to deliver anticancer agents to tumor sites in a precise and on-demand manner. Interestingly, supramolecular chemistry is a burgeoning discipline that entails the reversible bonding between components at the molecular and nanoscale levels, and the recent advances in this area offer the possibility to design nanotherapeutics with improved controllability and functionality for cancer therapy. Herein, we provide a comprehensive summary of typical non-covalent interaction modes, which primarily include hydrophobic interaction, hydrogel bonding, host-guest interaction, π-π stacking, and electrostatic interaction. Special emphasis is placed on the implications of these interaction modes to design novel stimuli-responsive drug delivery principles and concepts, aiming to enhance the spatial, temporal, and dosage precision of drug delivery to cancer cells. Finally, future perspectives are discussed to highlight current challenges and future opportunities in self-assembly-based stimuli-responsive drug delivery nanotechnologies for cancer therapy.

Oxygen Self-Generating Nanoreactor Mediated Ferroptosis Activation and Immunotherapy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

The hypoxia microenvironment of solid tumors poses a technological bottleneck for ferroptosis and immunotherapy in clinical oncology. Nanoreactors based on special physiological signals in tumor cells are able to avoid various tumor tolerance mechanisms by alleviating the intracellular hypoxia environment. Herein we reported a nanoreactor Cu_2-xSe that enabled the conversion of Cu elements between Cu⁺ and Cu²⁺ for the generation of O₂ and the consumption of intracellular GSH content. Furthermore, to enhance the catalytic and ferroptosis-inducing activities of the nanoreactors, the ferroptosis agonist Erastin was loaded on the ZIF-8 coating on the surface of Cu_2-xSe to up-regulate the expression of NOX4 protein, increase the intracellular H₂O₂ content, catalyze the Cu⁺ to produce O₂ and activate ferroptosis. In addition, the nanoreactors were simultaneously surface functionalized with PEG polymer and folic acid molecules, which ensured the in vivo blood circulation and tumor-specific uptake. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that the functionalized self-supplying nanoreactors can amplify the ability to generate O₂ and consume intracellular GSH via the interconversion of Cu elements Cu⁺ and Cu²⁺, and impair the GPX4/GSH pathway and HIF-1α protein expression. At the same time, by alleviating the intracellular hypoxia environment, the expression of miR301, a gene in the secreted exosomes was decreased, which ultimately affected the phenotype polarization of TAMs and increased the content of IFN γ secreted by CD8⁺ T cells, which further promoted the ferroptosis induced by Erastin-loaded nanoreactors. This combined therapeutic strategy of activating the tumor immune response and ferroptosis via self-supplying nanoreactors provides a potential strategy for clinical application.

Redox Homeostasis Strategy for Inflammatory Macrophage Reprogramming in Rheumatoid Arthritis Based on Ceria Oxide Nanozyme-Complexed Biopolymeric Micelles

The synovial tissues under rheumatoid arthritis conditions are usually infiltrated by inflammatory cells, particularly M1 macrophages with aberrant redox homeostasis, which causes rapid deterioration of articular structure and function. Herein, we created an ROS-responsive micelle (HA@RH-CeO_X) through the in situ host-guest complexation between ceria oxide nanozymes and hyaluronic acid biopolymers, which precisely delivered nanozyme and clinically approved rheumatoid arthritis drug Rhein (RH) to proinflammatory M1 macrophage populations in inflamed synovial tissues. The abundant cellular ROS could cleave the thioketal linker to trigger the release of RH and Ce. Specifically, the Ce³⁺/Ce⁴⁺ redox pair could present SOD-like enzymatic activity to rapidly decompose ROS and alleviate the oxidative stress in M1 macrophages, while RH could inhibit the TLR4 signaling in M1 macrophages, both of which could act in a concerted manner to induce their repolarization into anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype to ameliorate local inflammation and promote cartilage repair. Notably, rats bearing rheumatoid arthritis showed a drastic increase in the M1-to-M2 macrophage ratio from 1:0.48 to 1:1.91 in the inflamed tissue and significantly reduced inflammatory cytokine levels including TNF-α and IL-6 following the intra-articular injection of HA@RH-CeO_X, accompanied by efficient cartilage regeneration and restored articular function. Overall, this study revealed an approach to in situ modulate the redox homeostasis in inflammatory macrophages and reprogram their polarization states through micelle-complexed biomimetic enzymes, which offers alternative opportunities for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

[Malaria control knowledge and behaviors and their influencing factors among residents in Banlao Township, Cangyuan County, Yunnan Province]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the awareness of malaria-related knowledge, the use of mosquito nets and their influencing factors among residents in Banlao Township, Cangyuan County, Yunnan Province.

METHODS

In August 2020, 19 settlement sites in Banlao Township, Cangyuan County, Lincang City, Yunnan Province were selected as study areas, and permanent residents at ages of 10 years and older were enrolled for a questionnaire survey, including residents' demographics, family economic status, malaria control knowledge and use of mosquito nets. In addition, the factors affecting the use of mosquito nets in the night prior to the survey were identified using multivariate logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 320 questionnaires were allocated, and all were recovered (a 100% recovery rate). There were 316 valid questionnaires, with an effective recovery rate of 98.75%. The 316 respondents included 152 men and 164 women and 250 Chinese respondents and 66 foreign respondents. The awareness of clinical syndromes of malaria was significantly higher among Chinese residents (71.60%) than among foreign residents (50.00%) (χ² = 11.03, P < 0.01), and the proportions of Chinese and foreign residents sleeping under mosquito nets were 46.00% and 69.70% on the night prior to the survey, respectively (χ² = 11.73, P < 0.01). Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified ethnicity group and type of residence as factors affecting the use of mosquito nets in the night prior to the survey.

CONCLUSIONS

The awareness of malaria control knowledge, the coverage and the use of mosquito nets were low among residents in Banlao Township, Cangyuan County, Yunnan Province. Targeted health education is recommended to improve the awareness of malaria control knowledge and self-protection ability. In addition, improving the allocation of long-lasting mosquito nets and health education pertaining to their uses and increasing the proportion of using mosquito nets correctly is needed to prevent re-establishment of imported malaria.

Nitric Oxide Scavenging and Hydrogen Sulfide Production Synergistically Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis

To restore the disordered endogenous gas levels is an efficient alternative for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Both insufficient hydrogen sulfide (H₂ S) and excessive nitric oxide (NO) contribute to synovial inflammation. Herein, a new block polymer PEG₁₀ -b-PNAPA₃₀ -b-PEG₁₀ composed of an NO-responsive monomer and a cysteine-triggered H₂ S donor, which can simultaneously scavenge NO and release therapeutic H₂ S for RA treatment, is reported. In vitro experiments demonstrate that the polymer exhibits a synergistic effect on suppressing reactive oxygen species levels and pro-inflammatory cytokine production via NF-κB signaling pathway. It leads to the polarization of macrophages from M1 to M2 phenotype. Moreover, the released H₂ S further restrains NO production by suppressing the expression of iNOS. In vivo experiments with an RA rat model show that the system markedly mitigates the synovial inflammation, osteoporosis, and clinical symptoms of RA rats, which is attributed to the combination therapy of H₂ S release and NO depletion. This work provides new insight into the synergistic treatment of RA and endogenous gas-related diseases.

Glycyrrhizin regulates the HMGB1/P38MAPK signalling pathway in status epilepticus

In recent decades, studies have reported that inflammation serves key roles in epilepsy and that high mobility group box protein‑1 (HMGB1) may be involved in status epilepticus. However, it has not been reported whether HMGB1 participates in the pathogenesis of status epilepticus through the regulation of the p38 mitogen‑activated protein kinase (p38MAPK) signalling pathway. In the present study, Sprague‑Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups as follows: Control, status epilepticus (SE), dimethyl sulfoxide treatment (DMSO + SE), and glycyrrhizin treatment (GL + SE) groups. Behavioural changes were then evaluated using the Racine score. In the hippocampus, the protein expression levels of HMGB1 were assessed using western blotting, the neuronal damage was evaluated using haematoxylin and eosin staining and transmission electron microscopy, and the activation of microglia was assessed using immunochemistry and immunofluorescence. The results demonstrated that, in the hippocampal region, HMGB1 existed in neurons and astrocytes and the protein expression levels of HMGB1, p38MAPK and phosphorylated‑p38MAPK were significantly inhibited after treatment with GL. Furthermore, GL could alleviate neuronal injury in the CA1 region of the hippocampus and prevented HMGB1 translocation from the nucleus into the cytoplasm in these areas. These findings expand the understanding of how HMGB1 may participate in SE and lay a foundation for evaluation of HMGB1 as a drug target.

Anticeramide Improves Sjögren's Syndrome by Blocking BMP6-Induced Th1

T-cell dysfunction has been shown to play an important role in the pathogenesis of Sjögren's syndrome (SS). In recent studies, the increased expression of BMP6 has been reported to be related to SS. However, the roles that BMP6 plays in immune homeostasis in the development of SS as well as the downstream signals activated by BMP6 remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the effects and molecular mechanisms of BMP6 on naive CD4⁺ T cells, showing that BMP6 could upregulate interferon (IFN)-γ secretion from CD4⁺ T cells through a ceramide/nuclear factor-κB pathway, with no effect on T-cell activation or proliferation. Moreover, an in vivo study showed that anticeramide treatment (myriocin) for an SS animal model (NOD/LtJ mice) could significantly decrease the IFN-γ expression and Th1 frequency in the salivary glands and suppress the inflammation infiltration in salivary glands and maintain the salivary flow rates, both of which reflect SS-like symptoms. This study identifies a promising target that could effectively attenuate the abnormal state of CD4⁺ T cells and reverse the progression of SS.

PGC-1α Affects Epileptic Seizures by Regulating Mitochondrial Fusion in Epileptic Rats

BACKGROUND

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), regulated by AMPK, is an important regulator of mitochondrial fusion. At present, whether the AMPK/PGC-1α signaling pathway regulates mitochondrial dynamics in epileptic rats is still unknown.

METHODS

Adult male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into fourgroups: the control group (0.9% saline, n = 5), the EP groups (lithium-pilocarpine was used to induce epilepsy, and tissues were harvested at 6 and 24 h, every time point, n = 5), the EP + Compound C group (the specific inhibitor of PGC-1α, 15 mg/kg in 2% DMSO, n = 5), and the EP + DMSO group (0.9% saline + 2% DMSO, n = 5). To investigate whether PGC-1α participates in seizures by regulating the expression of mitofusin1/2(MFN1/2)in rats.

RESULTS

In this study, the behavioral results indicate that the seizure susceptibility of the rats to epilepsy was increased when the expression of PGC-1α was inhibited. Subsequently, Western blot results suggested that the expression level of both MFN1 and MFN2 in the hippocampus was higher at 6 and 24 h after an epileptic seizure. Besides, the expression of PGC-1α and MFN2 was significantly decreased in the hippocampus when the epileptic rats were treated with Compound C. Furthermore, the immunofluorescence analysis of the localization of MFN1/2 and PGC-1α showed that MFN1/2 was mainly expressed in neurons but not astrocytes in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex of rats. Meanwhile, PGC-1α colocalized with the excitatory post-synaptic marker PSD95, suggesting that PGC-1α may regulate the seizure susceptibility of the rats by mediating excitatory post-synaptic signaling.

CONCLUSION

The AMPK/PGC-1α signaling pathway may play an important role in the lithium-pilocarpine-induced epileptic rat model by mediating the expression of fusion proteins.

Forest succession improves the complexity of soil microbial interaction and ecological stochasticity of community assembly: Evidence from Phoebe bournei-dominated forests in subtropical regions

Forest succession is a central ecological topic, due to the importance of the associated dynamic processes for terrestrial ecosystems. However, very little is currently known about the community assembly and interaction of soil microbial communities along forest successional trajectories, particularly regarding the microbial community dynamics in contrasting seasons. To bridge these knowledge gaps, we studied soil bacterial and fungal community compositions, assemblages, and co-occurrence networks in a well-established successional gradient of Phoebe bournei-dominated forest, spanning about 65 years of forest development in a subtropical region. Illumina MiSeq sequencing of 16S and ITS genes was employed for the assessment of soil bacterial and fungal community composition and diversity, respectively. The relative abundance and α-diversity of soil bacteria and fungi showed a differential trend over forest succession. The dominant fungal phyla (Basidiomycota and Ascomycota) changed more frequently than the dominant bacterial phyla (Proteobacteria, Acidobacteriota, and Actinobacteriota), indicating that soil fungi have a more sensitive relationship with forest succession compared with bacteria. The soil microbial community variation induced by forest succession was significantly affected by soil total phosphorus, dissolved organic carbon content and pH. Compared to deterministic processes, stochastic processes mainly dominated the community assembly of soil microbial communities. Meanwhile, the relative importance of stochasticity in soil fungal communities increased in the later stages. In Particular, dispersal limitation and drift accounted for a large proportion of bacterial and fungal community assembly, respectively. In addition, the co-occurrence networks of soil microbial communities became more complex as succession proceeds. Soil bacteria and fungi exhibited more competition and cooperation along the forest successional gradient. Collectively, our findings suggest that forest succession improves the complexity of soil microbial interactions and the ecological stochasticity of community assembly in Phoebe bournei-dominated forests, providing key insights into the relationship between microbial communities and forest succession.