Evaluation of a miniature mass spectrometer based point-of-care-test method for direct analysis of amlodipine and benazepril in whole blood

A miniature mass spectrometer (mMS) based point-of-care testing (POCT) method was evaluated for on-site detecting the hypertension drugs, amlodipine and benazepril. The instrument parameters, including voltage, ISO1, ISO2, and CID, were optimized, under which the target compounds could be well detected in MS2. When these two drugs were injected simultaneously, the mutual ionization inhibition and mutual reduction between amlodipine and benazepril were evaluated. This phenomenon was severe on the precursor ions but had a small impact on the product ions, thus making this POCT method suitable for analysis using product ions. Finally, the method was validated and applied. The blood samples from patients were tested one hour after oral administration of the drugs (20 mg), and the benazepril was quantitatively analyzed using a standard curve, with detected concentrations ranging from 190.6 to 210 μg L-1 and a relative standard deviation (RSD) of 8.6 %. In summary, amlodipine has low sensitivity and can only be detected at higher concentrations, while benazepril has high sensitivity, good linearity, and even meets semi-quantitative requirements. The research results of this study are of great clinical significance for monitoring blood drug concentrations during hypertension medication, predicting drug efficacy, and customizing individualized medication plans.

PTPRO inhibition ameliorates spinal cord injury through shifting microglial M1/M2 polarization via the NF-κB/STAT6 signaling pathway

Spinal cord injury (SCI) induces severe neuroinflammation, and subsequently neurological dysfunction. Activated microglia are critical for modulation of neuroinflammation. Protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type O (PTPRO), a member of protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs), exerts a pro-inflammatory role in multiple human diseases; however, its role in SCI remains unclarified. Here, a T7 spinal cord compression injury model was established in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, and PTPRO expression was upregulated in injured spinal cord and microglia after SCI. Microglia M1 and M2 polarization in vitro were induced using LPS/IFN-γ and IL-4, respectively. PTPRO expression was elevated in M1-polarized microglia, and PTPRO downregulation mediated by PTPRO shRNA (shPTPRO) decreased CD86+ cell proportion, iNOS, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels, and p65 phosphorylation. PTPRO was downregulated in M2 microglia, and PTPRO upregulation by PTPRO overexpression plasmid (OE-PTPRO) reduced CD206+ cell percentage, Arg-1, IL-10, and TGF-β1 levels and STAT6 phosphorylation. Mechanistically, the transcription factor SOX4 elevated PTPRO expression and its promoter activity. SOX4 overexpression enhanced M1 polarization and p65 phosphorylation, while its knockdown promoted M2 polarization and STAT6 phosphorylation. PTPRO might mediate the function of SOX4 in BV2 microglia polarization. Furthermore, lentivirus-mediated downregulation of PTPRO following SCI improved locomotor functional recovery, demonstrated by elevated BBB scores, incline angle, consistent hindlimb coordination, and reduced lesion area and neuronal apoptosis. PTPRO downregulation promoted microglia M2 polarization, NF-κB inactivation and STAT6 activation after injury. In conclusion, PTPRO inhibition improves spinal cord injury through facilitating M2 microglia polarization via the NF-κB/STAT6 signaling pathway, which is probably controlled by SOX4.

Cardiolipin oxidized by ROS from complex II acts as a target of gasdermin D to drive mitochondrial pore and heart dysfunction in endotoxemia

Cardiac dysfunction, an early complication of endotoxemia, is the major cause of death in intensive care units. No specific therapy is available at present for this cardiac dysfunction. Here, we show that the N-terminal gasdermin D (GSDMD-N) initiates mitochondrial apoptotic pore and cardiac dysfunction by directly interacting with cardiolipin oxidized by complex II-generated reactive oxygen species (ROS) during endotoxemia. Caspase-4/11 initiates GSDMD-N pores that are subsequently amplified by the upregulation and activation of NLRP3 inflammation through further generation of ROS. GSDMD-N pores form prior to BAX and VDAC1 apoptotic pores and further incorporate into BAX and VDAC1 oligomers within mitochondria membranes to exacerbate the apoptotic process. Our findings identify oxidized cardiolipin as the definitive target of GSDMD-N in mitochondria of cardiomyocytes during endotoxin-induced myocardial dysfunction (EIMD), and modulation of cardiolipin oxidation could be a therapeutic target early in the disease process to prevent EIMD.

Emerging trends of invasive yeast infections and azole resistance in Beijing intensive care units

BACKGROUND

Invasive fungal infections pose a substantial threat to patients in healthcare settings globally. Recent changes in the prevalence of fungal species and challenges in conducting reference antifungal susceptibility testing emphasize the importance of monitoring fungi and their antifungal resistance.

METHODS

A two-phase surveillance project was conducted in Beijing, China, involving 37 centres across 12 districts, from January 2012 to December 2013 and from January 2016 to December 2017.

FINDINGS

We found that the proportion of Candida albicans in intensive care units (ICUs) during 2016-2017 exhibited a significant decline compared with the 2012-2013 period, although it remained the most predominant pathogen. In contrast, the prevalence of Nakaseomyces glabratus (formerly Candida glabrata) and Candida tropicalis notably increased during the two-phase surveillance. The high prevalence of C. tropicalis and its resistance to azole drugs posed a serious threat to patients in ICUs. The pathogens causing invasive fungal infections in Beijing were relatively sensitive to echinocandins. While C. albicans continued to exhibit susceptibility to azoles, the resistance and growth rates of C. tropicalis towards azoles were particularly prominent. Concerns were raised due to the emergence of multiple, short-term isolates of Clavispora lusitaniae and Candida parapsilosis complex in neonatal ICUs, given their similarity in antifungal susceptibilities. Such occurrences point towards the potential for transmission and persisting presence of these pathogens within the ICU environment.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study complements existing data on the epidemiology of invasive fungal infections. It is imperative to exercise cautious medication management for ICU patients in Beijing, paying particular attention to azole resistance in C. tropicalis.

Preclinical toxicity evaluation of novel antibacterial contezolid acefosamil in rats and dogs

Contezolid acefosamil (CZA) is an intravenous prodrug of oxazolidinone antibiotic contezolid (CZD). It is being developed to treat infections due to Gram-positive bacteria including multidrug-resistant pathogens, while addressing myelosuppression and neurotoxicity limitations associated with long-term use of this class of antibiotics. In vivo, CZA is rapidly deacylated into its first metabolite MRX-1352, which is then dephosphorylated to release active drug CZD. Four-week repeat-dose toxicity studies of intravenous CZA were conducted in Sprague-Dawley rats (40, 80, and 160/120 mg/kg/dose twice a day [BID]) and beagle dogs (25, 50, and 100/75 mg/kg/dose BID). The high doses administered to both rats and dogs were adjusted due to adverse effects including decreased body weight and food consumption. Additionally, a dose-dependent transient reduction in erythrocyte levels was recorded at the end of dosing phase. Importantly, no myelosuppressive reduction in platelet counts was observed, in contrast to the myelosuppression documented for standard-of-care oxazolidinone linezolid. The no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) of CZA was 80 and 25 mg/kg/dose BID in rats and dogs, respectively. Separately, 3-month neuropathological evaluation in Long-Evans rats (25, 37.5, and 50 mg/kg/dose, oral CZA, BID) demonstrated no neurotoxicity in the central, peripheral, and optical neurological systems. Toxicokinetic data from these studies revealed that CZD exposures at NOAELs were higher than or comparable with that for the intended clinical dose. These results confirm the favorable safety profile for CZA and support its clinical evaluation for long-term therapy of persistent Gram-positive infections, beyond the application for earlier oxazolidinones.

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester: an effective antiviral agent against porcine reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus

Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) presents a formidable viral challenge in swine husbandry. Confronting the constraints of existing veterinary pharmaceuticals and vaccines, this investigation centers on Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester (CAPE) as a prospective clinical suppressant for the Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV). The study adopts an integrated methodology to evaluate CAPE's antiviral attributes. This encompasses a dual-phase analysis of CAPE's interaction with PRRSV, both in vitro and in vivo, and an examination of its influence on viral replication. Varied dosages of CAPE were subjected to empirical testing in animal models to quantify its efficacy in combating PRRSV infections. The findings reveal a pronounced antiviral potency, notably in prophylactic scenarios. As a predominant component of propolis, CAPE stands out as a promising candidate for clinical suppression, showing exceptional effectiveness in pre-exposure prophylaxis regimes. This highlights the potential of CAPE in spearheading cutting-edge strategies for the management of future PRRSV outbreaks.

M-MDSCs mediated trans-BBB drug delivery for suppression of glioblastoma recurrence post-standard treatment

We found that immunosuppressive monocytic-myeloid-derived suppressor cells (M-MDSCs) were more likely to be recruited by glioblastoma (GBM) through adhesion molecules on GBM-associated endothelial cells upregulated post-chemoradiotherapy. These cells are continuously generated during tumor progression, entering tumors and expressing PD-L1 at a high level, allowing GBM to exhaust T cells and evade attack from the immune system, thereby facilitating GBM relapse. αLy-6C-LAMP is composed of (i) drug cores with slightly negative charges condensed by cationic protamine and plasmids encoding PD-L1 trap protein, (ii) pre-formulated cationic liposomes targeted to Ly-6C for encapsulating the drug cores, and (iii) a layer of red blood cell membrane on the surface for effectuating long-circulation. αLy-6C-LAMP persistently targets peripheral, especially splenic, M-MDSCs and delivers secretory PD-L1 trap plasmids, leveraging M-MDSCs to transport the plasmids crossing the blood-brain barrier (BBB), thus expressing PD-L1 trap protein in tumors to inhibit PD-1/PD-L1 pathway. Our proposed drug delivery strategy involving intermediaries presents an efficient cross-BBB drug delivery concept that incorporates live-cell targeting and long-circulating nanotechnology to address GBM recurrence.

Synthesis of Two-Dimensional Zeolite Nanosheets Applied to the Catalytic Cracking of a Waste Cooking Oil Model Compound to Produce Light Olefins

Hierarchical zeolites can provide multidimensional spatial networks and, therefore, have significant potential as catalysts for the cracking of biomass to generate light olefins. The present work synthesized the diquaternary ammonium-type surfactant [C18H37-N+(CH3)2-(CH2)6-N+(CH3)2-C6H13]Br2, incorporating hydrophobic 18-carbon alkyl groups for usage as a structure-directing agent. This compound was subsequently used to prepare nanosheets of a hierarchical ZSM-5 two-dimensional zeolite (HNZSM-5) through a one-pot hydrothermal method. The crystal phase, morphology, and hierarchical structure of the HNZSM-5 were analyzed using various techniques, including X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and N2 adsorption/desorption. When applied to the catalytic cracking of a waste cooking oil model compound, the HNZSM-5 exhibited superior activity and stability compared with a conventional ZSM-5. This performance was attributed to the more accessible acid sites and unique lamellar structure of the former material. The HNZSM-5 also outlasted the conventional zeolite, showing deactivation after 45 h of reaction compared with 20 h, indicating exceptional stability and excellent resistance to coking.

Atlas of Cell Repertoire Within Neointimal Lesions Is Metabolically Altered in Hypertensive Rats

BACKGROUND

High blood pressure has been suggested to accelerate vascular injury-induced neointimal formation and progression. However, little is known about the intricate relationships between vascular injury and hypertension in the context of arterial remodeling.

METHODS

Single-cell RNA-sequencing analysis was used to depict the cell atlas of carotid arteries of Wistar Kyoto rats and spontaneously hypertensive rats with or without balloon injury.

RESULTS

We found that hypertension significantly aggravated balloon injury-induced arterial stenosis. A total of 36 202 cells from carotid arteries with or without balloon injury were included in single-cell RNA-sequencing analysis. Cell composition analysis showed that vascular injury and hypertension independently induced distinct aortic cell phenotypic alterations including immune cells, endothelial cells (ECs), and smooth muscle cells. Specifically, our data showed that injury and hypertension-induced specific EC phenotypic alterations, and revealed a transition from functional ECs to hypermetabolic, and eventually dysfunctional ECs in hypertensive rats upon balloon injury. Importantly, our data also showed that vascular injury and hypertension-induced different smooth muscle cell phenotypic alterations, characterized by deferential expression of synthetic signatures. Interestingly, pathway analysis showed that dysregulated metabolic pathways were a common feature in monocytes/macrophages, ECs, and smooth muscle cells in response to injury and hypertension. Functionally, we demonstrate that inhibition of mitochondrial respiration significantly ameliorated injury-induced neointimal formation in spontaneously hypertensive rats.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides the cell landscape changes of the main aortic cell phenotypic alterations in response to injury and hypertension. Our findings suggest that targeting cellular mitochondrial respiration could be a novel therapeutic for patients with hypertension undergoing vascular angioplasty.

Functionalized lipid nanoparticles modulate the blood-brain barrier and eliminate α-synuclein to repair dopamine neurons

The challenge in the clinical treatment of Parkinson's disease lies in the lack of disease-modifying therapies that can halt or slow down the progression. Peptide drugs, such as exenatide (Exe), with potential disease-modifying efficacy, have difficulty in crossing the blood-brain barrier (BBB) due to their large molecular weight. Herein, we fabricate multi-functionalized lipid nanoparticles (LNP) Lpc-BoSA/CSO with BBB targeting, permeability-increasing and responsive release functions. Borneol is chemically bonded with stearic acid and, as one of the components of Lpc-BoSA/CSO, is used to increase BBB permeability. Immunofluorescence results of brain tissue of 15-month-old C57BL/6 mice show that Lpc-BoSA/CSO disperses across the BBB into brain parenchyma, and the amount is 4.21 times greater than that of conventional LNP. Motor symptoms of mice in Lpc-BoSA/CSO-Exe group are significantly improved, and the content of dopamine is 1.85 times (substantia nigra compacta) and 1.49 times (striatum) that of PD mice. α-Synuclein expression and Lewy bodies deposition are reduced to 51.85% and 44.72% of PD mice, respectively. Immunohistochemical mechanism studies show AKT expression in Lpc-BoSA/CSO-Exe is 4.23 times that of PD mice and GSK-3β expression is reduced to 18.41%. Lpc-BoSA/CSO-Exe could reduce the production of α-synuclein and Lewy bodies through AKT/GSK-3β pathway, and effectively prevent the progressive deterioration of Parkinson's disease. In summary, Lpc-BoSA/CSO-Exe increases the entry of exenatide into brain and promotes its clinical application for Parkinson's disease therapy.

The Effect of SiO2 Particle Size on Crystallization Behavior and Space Charge Properties for SiO2/MMT/LDPE Composites

The matrix material used in this paper was low-density polyethene (LDPE), and the added particles selected were silicon oxide (SiO2) particles and montmorillonite (MMT) particles. The sizes of the SiO2 particles were 1 µm, 30 nm, and 100 nm, respectively; three kinds of SiO2/MMT/LDPE multi-component composites were prepared based on MMT/LDPE composites doped with MMT particles. The effect of the SiO2 particle size on the crystallization behavior and space charge properties of SiO2/MMT/LDPE composites was studied. The crystalline behaviors and crystallinity of the materials were analyzed. At the same time, the changes in the relative dielectric constant εr and loss factor tanδ for each material with the influence of frequency were studied, and the space charge accumulation, residual characteristics, and apparent charge mobility of each material were explored. The results show that the smaller the size of the added particles, the smaller the grain size and the clearer the grain outline for the multi-composite material. After adding 30 nm SiO2 particles, the crystallinity of the material increases significantly. The microstructure formed by the addition of 100 nm SiO2 particles effectively restricts molecular chain movement and makes it difficult to establish the polarization of the composite. The incorporation of large-size particles can reduce the proportion of the crystalline structure for the material as a whole, resulting in the formation of a new structure to promote charge transfer. Among the three kinds of SiO2 particles, the addition of 30 nm SiO2 particles can effectively suppress the space charge, and the composite material has the lowest residual space charge after depolarization. The addition of 100 nm SiO2 particles can cause the accumulation of many homopolar charges near the anode.

Comparison of Locking Plate Alone and Locking Plate Combined with 3D Printed Polymethylmethacrylate Augmentation in Treating Proximal Humerus Fractures in the Elderly

BACKGROUND

Locking plates are widely used in open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) for proximal humeral fracture (PHF). However, the optimal surgical treatment of unstable, displaced PHF in elderly patients remains controversial. This study aimed to compare the radiological and clinical outcomes of surgical treatment of PHF in the elderly with locking plate (LP) alone and locking plate combined with 3D printed polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) prosthesis augmentation (LP-PA).

METHODS

From May 2015 to April 2021, a total of 97 patients aged ≥ 60 years with acute unstable PHF who underwent osteosynthesis with either LP (46 patients) or LP-PA (51 patients) were retrospectively analyzed. For the LP-PA group, a customized proximal humeral prosthesis made of PMMA cement was intra-operatively fabricated by a three-dimensional (3D) printed prototype mold for the humeral medial support. Radiological outcomes were analyzed by measuring the value of neck-shaft angle (NSA) and humeral head height (HHH). The clinical outcomes were evaluated using Constant-Murley Score (CMS), Disabilities of the Arm Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, and the shoulder range of motion (ROM). Pain was measured using a visual analogue scale (VAS).

RESULTS

At the one-year follow-up, all fractures healed radiologically and clinically. The mean changes of NSA and HHH over the follow-up period were markedly smaller in the LP-PA group (3.8 ± 0.9° and 1.7 ± 0.3 mm) than those in the LP group (9.7 ± 2.1° and 3.2 ± 0.6 mm, both P < 0.0001). The LP-PA group also presented lower DASH score (17.1 ± 3.6), higher ASES score (89.5 ± 11.2) and better ROM in forward elevation (142 ± 26°) and external rotation (59 ± 11°) compared to the LP group (28.9 ± 4.8 for DASH score, P < 0.0001; 82.3 ± 9.0 for ASES score, P < 0.001; 129 ± 21° for forward elevation, P = 0.008; and 52 ± 9° for external rotation, P = 0.001). There was no significant difference in overall complication rate between the two groups, although the complication rate of screw perforation was higher in the LP-PA group (P = 0.172).

CONCLUSIONS

For PHF in elderly patients, the combination of LP fixation and PMMA prosthesis augmentation effectively improved humeral head support and reduction maintenance, providing satisfactory outcomes both radiologically and clinically. This technique also reduced the incidence of screw perforation associated with plate fixation alone, making it a reasonable option to ensure satisfactory clinical outcomes.

Differences in attentional function between experienced mindfulness meditators and non-meditators

Introduction

Attentional enhancement has often been identified as the central cognitive mechanism underlying the benefits of mindfulness meditation. However, the extent to which this enhancement is observable in the neural processes underlying long-term meditation is unclear. This current study aimed to examine differences in attentional performance between meditators and controls (non-meditators) using a visual oddball task with concurrent electroencephalography (EEG) recordings.

Methods

Thirty-four participants were recruited, including 16 meditators and 18 healthy controls, who were non-meditators. The participants completed a visual oddball task, using visual stimuli, and EEG recording.

Results

Self-reports revealed that meditators had higher mindful attention scores than did the control group. The behavioral results showed that the meditators demonstrated faster reaction times than the non-meditators did. Neural findings indicated a higher P2 amplitude in the meditators than in the controls. The meditators demonstrated a significantly higher P3 in the target trials than in the distractor trials, which was not observed in the controls. Additionally, the time-frequency analysis demonstrated that the delta and theta powers in the meditators were significantly higher than those in the controls.

Conclusions

The study suggests the meditators exhibited greater attentional performance than the controls did, as revealed by EEG and behavioral measures. This study extends previous research on the effects of mindfulness meditation on attention and adds to our understanding of the effects of long-term mindfulness meditation.

[Design of an improved percutaneous transhepatic cholangio drainage tube based on MRCP imaging data]

Objective: Quantified MRCP imaging data was used as a reference for design and preparation of a modified percutaneous transhepatic cholangio drainage (PTCD) tube. Methods: 3.0 T upper abdominal MR and MRCP imaging data of 2 300 patients treated from July 2015 to July 2020 at the Department of Radiology of the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University were screened and a total of 381 patients diagnosed with biliary duct structures were identified. Causative etiologies among these patients included pancreatic adenocarcinoma (pancreatic head), cholangiocarcinoma, ampullary carcinoma, as well as intrahepatic and/or extrahepatic bile duct dilation. An improved PTCD tube was designed based on MRCP quantification of left and right hepatic and common hepatic duct length. Results: In the setting of biliary obstruction caused by malignancy, the distance of the left hepatic duct from its origin to the point of left and right hepatic duct confluence was 15.9±3.8 mm, while the distance of the right hepatic duct from its origin to the point of left and right hepatic duct confluence was 12.4±3.2 mm; the length of the bile duct from its origin to the point of left and right hepatic duct confluence was 34.0±8.1 mm. The improved PTCD tube design incorporated an altered length of the drainage orifice. Conclusion: MRCP imaging of the biliary tract is effective for measuring biliary tract length in the setting of pathological dilation. Based on our biliary tract measurements, a modified PTCD tube was designed to more effectively meet drainage requirements and manage biliary obstruction caused by Bismuth-Corlette type Ⅱ and Ⅲ malignancies.

Biomedical analysis of four fixation systems in treatment of type II traumatic spondylolisthesis of the axis: a finite element analysis

This study aimed to compare the properties and safety of self-designed plates in type II traumatic spondylolisthesis of the axis with those of traditional devices via finite element (FE) analysis. We constructed a hangman's fracture FE model from the occipital bone (C0) level to the C3 level. Then, FE models were constructed for the following four fixation systems: an anterior cervical L-shaped plate with four vertebral screws (4-ACLP), or six screws (6-ACLP), an anterior cervical orion plate (ACOP), and a posterior fixation system. A preloaded compressive force of 50 N and a moment of 1.5 N·m were applied to each model under six working conditions. The mobility of the C2/3 segment decreased significantly in four fixation models. In the Mises stress cloud diagram, 4-ACLP showed a better stress distribution in both the bone graft and fixation system than 6-ACLP and ACOP. The resultant force of 4-ACLP was lower but higher than ACOP in axial force. Additionally, the cage in the 4-ACLP configuration experienced the highest stress in the six working conditions. Hence, this novel self-designed plate has the potential to mitigate the operational difficulties, provide sufficient stability, reduce the risk of plate or screw fractures, and improve bone fusion.

Combining Multifunctional Delivery System with Blood-Brain Barrier Reversible Opening Strategy for the Enhanced Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative illness characterized by intracellular tau-phosphorylation, β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques accumulation, neuroinflammation, and impaired behavioral ability. Owing to the lack of effective brain delivery approaches and the presence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), current AD therapeutic endeavors are severely limited. Herein, a multifunctional delivery system (RVG-DDQ/PDP@siBACE1) is elaborately combined with a protein kinase B (AKT) agonist (SC79) for facilitating RVG-DDQ/PDP@siBACE1 to target and penetrate BBB, enter brain parenchyma, and further accumulate in AD brain lesion. Moreover, compared with the unitary dose of RVG-DDQ/PDP@siBACE1, this collaborative therapy strategy exhibits a distinctive synergistic function including scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS), decreasing of Aβ production, alleviating neuroinflammation by promoting the polarized microglia into the anti-inflammatory M2-like phenotype and significantly enhancing the cognitive functions of AD mice. More strikingly, according to these results, an innovative signaling pathway "lncRNA MALAT1/miR-181c/BCL2L11" is found that can mediate the neuronal apoptosis of AD. Taken together, combining the brain targeted delivery system with noninvasive BBB opening can provide a promising strategy and platform for targeting treatment of AD and other neurodegenerative diseases.

Oncological outcomes of conversion therapy in gastric cancer patients with peritoneal metastasis: a large-scale retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Data on the long-term oncological outcomes of patients who undergo conversion surgery (CS) in gastric cancer (GC) patients with peritoneal metastasis (PM) are limited.

METHODS

GC patients with PM who received intraperitoneal (ip) and systemic chemotherapy between April 2015 and January 2021 were enrolled. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify risk factors associated with survival. Clinicopathological and survival outcomes were compared between those with CS and those without CS (NCS). The paclitaxel (PTX) plus tegafur-gimeracil-oteracil potassium capsules (S-1) (PS) + ip PTX and oxaliplatin plus S-1 (SOX) + ip PTX groups were matched in a 1:1 ratio using propensity score matching. Oncological and survival data were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 540 patients who received ip chemotherapy via subcutaneous port and systemic chemotherapy were analyzed and 268 patients were enrolled, including 113 who underwent CS and 155 who did not. Overall survival (OS) were 27.0 months and 11.8 months in the CS and NCS groups (P < 0.0001), respectively. R0 resection was an independent prognostic factor for patients who underwent CS. The OS of patients with or without ovariectomy was 21.3 or 12.0 months (P < 0.0001). No difference of clinicopathological and survival outcomes was found between the PS + ip PTX and SOX + ip PTX groups.

CONCLUSION

Conversion therapy is safe and adverse events were manageable. CS improves the survival of GC patients with PM after ip and systemic chemotherapy. R0 is an important prognostic factor. Furthermore, outcomes are comparable between the PS + ip PTX and SOX + ip PTX groups.

Active Anchoring Stimuli-Responsive Nano-Craft to Relieve Pulmonary Vasoconstriction by Targeting Smooth Muscle Cell for Hypoxic Pulmonary Hypertension Treatment

Recently, nanotechnology-based drug delivery platforms in treating pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) have gradually emerged. However, large mechanical stress and shear stress in blood vessels greatly affect the retention of nanopreparative materials at lesion sites, severely limiting nanotechnology-based drug delivery. Herein, a stimuli-responsive nanocraft is rationally designed by actively anchoring E-selectin overexpressed on pulmonary arterial endothelial cells (PAECs), under hypoxic conditions, allowing effective accumulation and retention of the drug at the lesion site. Briefly, a nitrobenzene group is incorporated into the framework of a nanocarrier, and then it is simultaneously linked with chitosan. Additionally, the surface of the nanocarrier with sialic acid (SA) and encapsulated the clinically used drug ambrisentan (Am), which enables the anchoring of E-selectin and subsequent drug delivery is modifed. This system facilitates intercellular transport to pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) when targeting PAECs and specifically responds to a reductive hypoxic microenvironment with elevated nitroreductase in PASMCs. Moreover, compared with free Am, nanoencapsulation and SA-PEG2000 -NH2 prolong the blood circulation time, achieving better therapeutic outcomes in preventing vascular remodeling and reversing systolic dysfunction. The originality and contribution of this work reveal the promising value of this pulmonary arterial anchoring stimuli-responsive nanocraft as a novel therapeutic strategy for satisfactory PAH treatment.

Long-term PM2.5 exposure and early-onset diabetes: Does BMI link this risk?

OBJECTIVE

Limited studies investigated the association between high-level fine particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution and early-onset diabetes, leaving the possible metabolic mechanisms unclear. We assessed the association of cumulative PM2.5 exposure with diabetes, including early-onset, in high-pollution areas of China and explored whether metabolic factors mediated this association.

METHODS

124,204 participants (≥18 years) from 121 counties in Hunan province, China, were enrolled between 2005 and 2020, with follow-up until 2021. The ground-level air pollution concentrations at each participant's residence were calculated using a high-quality dataset in China. The independent association of PM2.5 with incident diabetes and early-onset diabetes was assessed by Cox proportional hazards models. Restricted cubic splines were utilized to establish the exposure-response relationships. The role of metabolism-related mediators was estimated by mediation analysis.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up of 8.47 (IQR, 6.65-9.82) years, there were 3650 patients with new-onset diabetes. Each 1 μg/m3 increase in the level of cumulative PM2.5 exposure was positively related to an increased incidence of diabetes (HR 1.177, 95 % CI 1.172-1.181) among individuals in the PM2.5 > 50 μg/m3 group after adjusting for multiple variables. The relationship of the PM2.5 dose-response curve for diabetes was non-linear. Significant associations between PM2.5 exposure and early-onset diabetes risk were observed, with this risk showing an increase with the earlier age of early diabetes onset. Males, young individuals (≤45 years), and those with a lower body mass index (BMI <24 kg/m2) appeared to be more susceptible to diabetes. Moreover, change in BMI significantly mediated 31.06 % of the PM2.5-diabetes relationship.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term cumulative PM2.5 exposure increased the risk of early-onset diabetes, which is partially mediated by BMI. Sustained air pollution control measures, priority protection of vulnerable individuals, and effective management of BMI should be taken to reduce the burden of diabetes.

Native molluscs alleviate water quality impacts of invasive crayfish

Freshwaters are considered to be the most vulnerable ecosystems facing biological invasions, and the red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) is one of the most widespread aquatic invasive species in the world. P. clarkii has negative impacts on water quality in the lakes that it invades by, for instance, increasing their turbidity and nutrient concentrations and reducing macrophyte biomass. However, native taxa such as snails and mussels could potentially help to maintain a clear-water status in lakes by grazing on periphyton or by phytoplankton filtration. To examine the potential negative effects of P. clarkii on the clear-water state in lakes dominated by the macrophyte Vallisneria denseserrulata and the potential for native species to buffer these effects, we tested the crayfish impact in the absence and presence of the snail Bellamya aeruginosa and the mussel Sinanodonta woodiana at different biomasses. In the presence of crayfish, total suspended solids, total phosphorus, and chlorophyll a concentrations significantly increased compared to the control treatments without crayfish. However, when crayfish coexisted with snails or mussels, these three environmental variables all decreased in concentration compared to the crayfish-only treatment. Low (500 g/m2) and high (1500 g/m2) snail or mussel biomass had similar buffering effects. Macrophyte biomass in the crayfish and high mussel biomass treatment was 43 % higher than in the crayfish-only treatment. Native molluscs therefore alleviated the negative effects of crayfish on lake water quality and promoted native macrophyte growth. We conclude that a thriving native mollusc community may help in maintaining the clear-water state in lakes following crayfish invasion.

Sacubitril/valsartan inhibits the proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells through notch signaling and ERK1/2 pathway

AIMS

To explore the role and mechanism of Notch signaling and ERK1/2 pathway in the inhibitory effect of sacubitril/valsartan on the proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs).

MAIN METHODS

Human aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (HA-VSMCs) were cultured in vitro. The proliferating VSMCs were divided into three groups as control group, Ang II group and Ang II + sacubitril/valsartan group. Cell proliferation and migration were detected by CCK8 and scratch test respectively. The mRNA and protein expression of PCNA, MMP-9, Notch1 and Jagged-1 were detected by qRT-PCR and Western blot respectively. The p-ERK1/2 expression was detected by Western blot.

KEY FINDINGS

Compared with the control group, proliferation and migration of VSMCs and the expression of PCNA, MMP-9, Notch1, Jagged-1 and p-ERK1/2 was increased in Ang II group. Sacubitril/valsartan significantly reduced the proliferation and migration. Additionally, pretreatment with sacubitril/valsartan reduced the PCNA, MMP-9, Notch1, Jagged-1 and p-ERK1/2 expression.

NIR-Triggered Thermosensitive Nanoreactors for Dual-Guard Mechanism-Mediated Precise and Controllable Cancer Chemo-Phototherapy

Thermosensitive nanoparticles can be activated by externally applying heat, either through laser irradiation or magnetic fields, to trigger the release of drug payloads. This controlled release mechanism ensures that drugs are specifically released at the tumor site, maximizing their effectiveness while minimizing systemic toxicity and adverse effects. However, its efficacy is limited by the low concentration of drugs at action sites, which is caused by no specific target to tumor sties. Herein, hyaluronic acid (HA), a gooey, slippery substance with CD44-targeting ability, was conjugated with a thermosensitive polymer poly(acrylamide-co-acrylonitrile) to produce tumor-targeting and thermosensitive polymeric nanocarrier (HA-P) with an upper critical solution temperature (UCST) at 45 °C, which further coloaded chemo-drug doxorubicin (DOX) and photosensitizer Indocyanine green (ICG) to prepare thermosensitive nanoreactors HA-P/DOX&ICG. With photosensitizer ICG acting as the "temperature control element", HA-P/DOX&ICG nanoparticles can respond to temperature changes when receiving near-infrared irradiation and realize subsequent structure depolymerization for burst drug release when the ambient temperature was above 45 °C, achieving programmable and on-demand drug release for effective antitumor therapy. Tumor inhibition rate increased from 61.8 to 95.9% after laser irradiation. Furthermore, the prepared HA-P/DOX&ICG nanoparticles possess imaging properties, with ICG acting as a probe, enabling real-time monitoring of drug distribution and therapeutic response, facilitating precise treatment evaluation. These results provide enlightenment for the design of active tumor targeting and NIR-triggered programmable and on-demand drug release of thermosensitive nanoreactors for tumor therapy.

Open Distal Femur Fractures Treated with Bone Cement Intramedullary Support Combined with Locked Plate Fixation

Objective

The objective of this study was to assess the short-term clinical efficacy of the short-term clinical efficacy of bone cement intramedullary support combined with locked plate fixation in the treatment of such fractures.

Methods

A retrospective study including 21 patients was reviewed at an urban level one trauma center. There were 17 males and 4 females, with a mean age of 33.9 years. Gustilo grade was II (12 cases), III-A (6 cases), III-B (2 cases), and III-C (1 case). Two fractures were AO-OTA type 33A3, 9 cases were type 33C2, and 10 cases were type 33C3. After the first stage debridement and temporary external fixation, all patients received bone cement intramedullary support combined with locked plate fixation through an anterolateral incision at the second stage.. The perioperative complications, need for bone graft, alignment, and radiographic union were recorded. At 1-year follow-up, the range of knee motion was recorded, and functional results were evaluated by the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) knee score.

Results

All 21 patients were followed up for 12-36 months, with an average of 18.7 months. 1 case had superficial wound infection, and 2 cases had partial skin edge necrosis of the original open wound. After symptomatic dressing changes, they all healed well. 4 cases had autogenous bone grafting. 18 patients (85.7%) achieved radiographic union, with a mean union time of 6.2 months. Two patients underwent secondary operation 9 months after surgery due to nonunion and finally united after autologous bone grafting. One patient developed a deep infection 8 months after surgery and was successfully treated with Masquelet technique. Finally, bone union was achieved 7 months after surgery. The alignment was good in 17 patients (81.0%). No deep infection or hardware failure occurred during 1-year follow-up. The average range of knee extension and flexion was 5.2 ° and 106.8 °, respectively. The HSS score averaged 83.6.

Conclusions

Bone cement intramedullary support combined with locked plate fixation was an effective treatment modality of open distal femur fractures with high union rate, low complication, adequate alignment and satisfactory functional outcomes.

Regulating the Heme Active Site by Covalent Modifications: Two Case Studies of Myoglobin

Using myoglobin (Mb) as a model protein, we herein developed a facial approach to modifying the heme active site. A cavity was first generated in the heme distal site by F46 C mutation, and the thiol group of Cys46 was then used for covalently linked to exogenous ligands, 1H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiol and 1-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1H-pyrrole-2,5-dione. The engineered proteins, termed F46C-triazole Mb and F46C-phenol Mb, respectively, were characterized by X-ray crystallography, spectroscopic and stopped-flow kinetic studies. The results showed that both the heme coordination state and the protein function such as H2 O2 activation and peroxidase activity could be efficiently regulated, which suggests that this approach might be generally applied to the design of functional heme proteins.

Association of serum lipids and abnormal lipid score with cancer risk: a population-based prospective study

BACKGROUND

Serum lipid levels are associated with cancer risk. However, there still have uncertainties about the single and combined effects of low lipid levels on cancer risk.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study of 33,773 adults in Shanghai between 2016 and 2017 was conducted. Total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels were measured. Cox proportional hazard models were used to assess the association of single and combined lipids with overall, lung, colon, rectal, thyroid gland, stomach, and female breast cancers. The effect of the combination of abnormal lipid score and lifestyle on cancer was also estimated.

RESULTS

A total of 926 incident cancer cases were identified. In the RCS analysis, hazard ratios (HRs) of overall cancer for individuals with TC < 5.18 mmol/L or with LDL-C < 3.40 mmol/L were higher. Low TC was associated with higher colorectal cancer risk (HR [95% CI] = 1.76 [1.09-2.84]) and low HDL-C increased thyroid cancer risk by 90%. Abnormal lipid score was linearly and positively associated with cancer risk, and smokers with high abnormal lipid scores had a higher cancer risk, compared to non-smokers with low abnormal lipid scores (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Low TC levels were associated with an increased risk of overall and colorectal cancer. More attention should be paid to participants with high abnormal lipid scores and unhealthy lifestyles who may have a higher risk of developing cancer. Determining the specific and comprehensive lipid combinations that affect tumorigenesis remains a valuable challenge.

Two-dimensional speckle tracking imaging cardiac motion-based quantitative evaluation of global longitudinal strain among patients with coronary Heart Disease and functions of left ventricular ischemic myocardial segment

To investigate two-dimensional speckle tracking imaging (2D-STI)-based quantitative evaluation of the influences of different levels of coronary artery stenosis on left ventricular functions and its clinical diagnostic values, 120 patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) were divided into control group (30 cases), mild stenosis group (30 cases), moderate stenosis group (30 cases), and severe stenosis group (30 cases) according to coronary angiography (CAG) results. They underwent routine ultrasound examination and 2D-STI examination. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were drawn to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of different levels of coronary artery stenosis. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) of left ventricular myocardium among patients in moderate and severe stenosis groups remarkably declined (P < 0.05). Global radial strain (GRS) and global circular strain (GCS) among patients in severe stenosis group dramatically reduced (P < 0.05). ROC curves revealed that available GLS=-17.2 was the cut-off value for screening moderate coronary stenosis. The sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC) amounted to 57.3%, 58.4%, and 0.573, respectively. GLS, GRS, and GCS could be used to screen severe coronary stenosis. When GLS=-16.5 was the cut-off value for screening severe coronary stenosis, sensitivity, specificity, and AUC amounted to 84.3%, 82.5%, and 0.893, respectively. With the aggravation of stenosis, left ventricular systolic function of CHD patients was impaired more significantly. 2D-STI technique could be adopted for the quantitative evaluation of left ventricular strain of patients with coronary stenosis and provided a new method for early clinical diagnosis of CHD.

Effects of the lncRNA MALAT1 gene region rs664589 site mutation on acute myocardial infarction in Chinese Han

We aimed to study the association between the non-coding region of the lncRNA MALAT1 gene, the non-coding region rs664589 C>G variant, and the risk of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in the Chinese Han population. 165 NSTEMI and 135 STEMI patients were enrolled in the study. An additional 150 healthy individuals were enrolled as the controls. All subjects were analyzed for the MALAT1 rs664589 locus genotype. The receiver operating curve (ROC) was used to determine the effect of MALAT1 rs664589 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) on the diagnosis of AMI by plasma lncRNA MALAT1. The MALAT1 rs664589 site G allele carrier was 1.39 times more likely to have NSTEMI than the C allele carrier (95% CI: 1.16-1.61, P = 0.001) and 1.59 times more likely to have STEMI than the C allele carrier (95% CI: 1.31-1.85, P < 0.001). The MALAT1 rs664589 site C>G mutation resulted in an increase in the area under the ROC curve (AUC) of the plasma lncRNA MALAT1 level for the diagnosis of AMI. The plasma lncRNA MALAT1 levels in AMI patients were negatively correlated with hsa-miR-1972, hsa-miR-194-5p, hsa-miR-4717-5p, hsa-miR-6735-3p, and hsa-miR-3677-5p (r = -0.81, -0.75, -0.66, -0.71, and -0.88). The C>G mutation of MAL6641 rs664589 causes an increased risk of AMI in the Chinese Han population. The SNP at this site affects the value of plasma lncRNA MALAT1 in the diagnosis of AMI. The specific mechanism may indicate that the C>G mutation of the MALAT1 rs664589 changes the regulation of miRNAs expression by lncRNA MALAT1.

Analysis of circulating tumor DNA identifies distinct therapeutic response to intraperitoneal and intravenous paclitaxel plus S-1 in gastric cancer patients with peritoneal metastasis

Background

Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is a promising technique for predicting curative effects and monitoring tumor recurrence. The utility of ctDNA for gastric cancer with peritoneal dissemination remains elusive.

Objectives

To assess the feasibility of ctDNA in predicting tumor response to chemotherapy in gastric cancer with peritoneal dissemination.

Design

This was a prospective study.

Methods

We enrolled 30 patients with gastric cancer peritoneal metastasis, treated with intraperitoneal and intravenous paclitaxel plus S-1. Peripheral blood samples of patients were prospectively collected at baseline, after treatment initiation accompanied by computed tomography scan and disease progression. Mutational profiles from ctDNA were analyzed to evaluate its association with chemotherapeutic response.

Results

Tumor protein 53 (TP53) was the most frequently altered gene at baseline blood samples. Although baseline TP53 mutation was not related to therapeutic response, patients with TP53 mutation had worse progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Additionally, baseline ctDNA content fraction (CCF) was found to be significantly lower in responders than non-responders. Meanwhile, patients with high CCF had a trend of worse PFS and OS. Combining TP53 alteration and CCF, the prognosis of TP53-wt patients could be further stratified. Patients with CCF-low_TP53-wt had markedly longer survival than those with CCF-high_TP53-wt.

Conclusion

Our study highlighted the significance of ctDNA in predicting potential clinical outcomes in gastric cancer patients during chemotherapy.

Trial registration

ChiCTR-IIR-16009802 (Chinese Clinical Trial Registry).

Glutathione Consumptive Dual-Sensitive Lipid-Composite Nanoparticles Induce Immunogenic Cell Death for Enhanced Breast Tumor Therapy

Although chemotherapy remains the standard therapy for tumor treatment, serious side effects can occur because of nontargeted distribution and damage to healthy tissues. Hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles (HMSNs) modified with lipids offer potential as delivery systems to improve therapeutic outcomes and reduce adverse effects. Herein, we synthesized HMSNs with integrated disulfide bonds (HMSN) for loading with the chemotherapeutic agent oxaliplatin (OXP) which were then covered with the synthesized hypoxia-sensitive lipid (Lip) on the surface to prepare the dual-sensitive lipid-composite nanoparticles (HMSN-OXP-Lip). The empty lipid-composite nanoparticles (HMSN-Lip) would consume glutathione (GSH) in cells because of the reduction of disulfide bonds in HMSN and would also inhibit GSH production because of NADPH depletion driven by Lip cleavage. These actions contribute to increased levels of ROS that induce the immunogenic cell death (ICD) effect. Simultaneously, HMSN-Lip would disintegrate in the presence of high concentrations of GSH. The lipid in HMSN-OXP-Lip could evade payload leakage during blood circulation and accelerate the release of the OXP in the tumor region in the hypoxic microenvironment, which could significantly induce the ICD effect to activate an immune response for an enhanced therapeutic effect. The tumor inhibitory rate of HMSN-OXP-Lip was almost twice that of free OXP, and no apparent side effects were observed. This design provides a dual-sensitive and efficient strategy for tumor therapy by using lipid-composite nanoparticles that can undergo sensitive drug release and biodegradation.

A Dynamically Stable Mixed Conducting Interphase for All-Solid-State Lithium Metal Batteries

All-solid-state lithium (Li) metal batteries (ASSLMBs) employing sulfide solid electrolytes have attracted increasing attention owing to superior safety and high energy density. However, the instability of sulfide electrolytes against Li metal induces the formation of two types of incompetent interphases, solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) and mixed conducting interphase (MCI), which significantly blocks rapid Li-ion transport and induces uneven Li deposition and continuous interface degradation. In this contribution, a dynamically stable mixed conducting interphase (S-MCI) is proposed by in situ stress self-limiting reaction to achieve the compatibility of Li metal with composite sulfide electrolytes (Li6 PS5 Cl (LPSCl) and Li10 GeP2 S12 (LGPS)). The rational design of composite electrolytes utilizes the expansion stress induced by the electrolyte decomposition to in turn constrain the further decomposition of LGPS. Consequently, the S-MCI inherits the high dynamical stability of LPSCl-derived SEI and the lithiophilic affinity of Li-Ge alloy in LGPS-derived MCI. The Li||Li symmetric cells with the protection of S-MCI can operate stably for 1500 h at 0.5 mA cm-2 and 0.5 mAh cm-2 . The Li||NCM622 full cells present stable cycling for 100 cycles at 0.1 C with a high-capacity retention of 93.7%. This work sheds fresh insight into constructing electrochemically stable interphase for high-performance ASSLMBs.

Management of nocturnal hypertension: An expert consensus document from Chinese Hypertension League

Nocturnal hypertension is highly prevalent among Chinese and Asian populations, which is mainly attributed to high salt intake and high salt sensitivity. Nocturnal hypertension increases the risk of cardiovascular and all-cause mortality, independent of daytime blood pressure (BP). However, it can usually be detected by 24-h ambulatory BP monitoring, rather than routine office or home BP measurement, thus is often underdiagnosed in clinical practice. Currently, no specific guidance is available for the management of nocturnal hypertension in China or worldwide. Experts from the Chinese Hypertension League summarized the epidemiologic and pathophysiologic characteristics and clinical phenotype of nocturnal hypertension and provided consensus recommendations on optimal management of nocturnal hypertension, with the goal of maximally reducing the cardiovascular disease risks. In this consensus document, 24-h ABPM is recommended for screening and diagnosis of nocturnal hypertension, especially in the elderly, patients with diabetes, chronic kidney diseases, obstructive sleep apnea and other conditions prone to high nocturnal BP. Lifestyle modifications including salt intake restriction, exercise, weight loss, sleep improvement, and mental stress relief are recommended. Long-acting antihypertensive medications are preferred for nocturnal and 24-h BP control. Some newly developed agents, renal denervation, and other device-based therapy on nocturnal BP reduction are evaluated.

Electrochemically and Thermally Stable Inorganics-Rich Solid Electrolyte Interphase for Robust Lithium Metal Batteries

Severe dendrite growth and high-level activity of the lithium metal anode lead to a short life span and poor safety, seriously hindering the practical applications of lithium metal batteries. With a trisalt electrolyte design, an F-/N-containing inorganics-rich solid electrolyte interphase on a lithium anode is constructed, which is electrochemically and thermally stable over long-term cycles and safety abuse conditions. As a result, its Coulombic efficiency can be maintained over 98.98% for 400 cycles. An 85.0% capacity can be retained for coin-type full cells with a 3.14 mAh cm-2 LiNi0.5 Co0.2 Mn0.3 O2 cathode after 200 cycles and 1.0 Ah pouch-type full cells with a 4.0 mAh cm-2 cathode after 72 cycles. During the thermal runaway tests of a cycled 1.0 Ah pouch cell, the onset and triggering temperatures were increased from 70.8 °C and 117.4 °C to 100.6 °C and 153.1 °C, respectively, indicating a greatly enhanced safety performance. This work gives novel insights into electrolyte and interface design, potentially paving the way for high-energy-density, long-life-span, and thermally safe lithium metal batteries.

Exogenous application of ALA enhanced sugar, acid and aroma qualities in tomato fruit

The content and proportion of sugars and acids in tomato fruit directly affect its flavor quality. Previous studies have shown that 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) could promote fruit ripening and improve its aroma quality. In order to explore the effect of ALA on sugar and acid quality during tomato fruit development, 0, 100, and 200 mg L-1 ALA solutions were sprayed on the fruit surface 10 days after pollination of the fourth inflorescence, and the regulation of ALA on sugar, acid metabolism and flavor quality of tomato fruit was analyzed. The results showed that ALA treatment could enhance the activities of acid invertase (AI), neutral invertase (NI), and sucrose synthase (SS), reduce the activity of sucrose phosphate synthase (SPS), up-regulate the expression of SlAI, SlNI and SlSS, change the composition and content of sugar in tomato fruit at three stages, significantly increase the content of sugars in fruit, and promote the accumulation of sugars into flesh. Secondly, ALA treatments increased the activities of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPC), malic enzyme (ME), and citrate synthase (CS), up-regulated the expression of SlPPC2, SlME1, and SlCS, and reduced the citric acid content at maturity stage, thereby reducing the total organic acid content. In addition, ALA could also increase the number and mass fraction of volatile components in mature tomato fruits. These results indicated that exogenous application of ALA during tomato fruit development could promote the formation of fruit aroma quality and were also conducive to the formation of fruit sugar and acid quality.

Sintilimab combined neoadjuvant intraperitoneal and systemic chemotherapy in gastric cancer with peritoneal metastasis

Intraperitoneal chemotherapy combined with systemic chemotherapy is one of the therapeutic modalities currently used for the treatment of gastric cancer patients with peritoneal metastasis. This study was designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of sintilimab plus S-1 combined intraperitoneal and intravenous paclitaxel. This is an open-label, single-center, phase II study including 36 gastric adenocarcinoma patients with peritoneal metastases diagnosed by laparoscopy. All enrolled patients received sintilimab, intraperitoneal and intravenous paclitaxel plus oral S-1 every 3 weeks. Conversion operation should be considered when a patient responds to the regimen and the peritoneal metastasis disappears. After gastrectomy, the protocol treatment is repeated until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, investigator decision or patient withdrawal. The primary end point is the 1-year survival rate. Clinical Trial Registration: NCT05204173 (ClinicalTrials.gov).

Management of segmental defects post open distal femur fracture using a titanium cage combined with the Masquelet technique A single-centre report of 23 cases

INTRODUCTION

The segmental bone defects post open distal femur fracture presents a reconstructive challenge, which often requires extreme solutions. The present study reviewed a new treatment strategy which used a cylindrical titanium mesh cage as an adjunct to the Masquelet technique.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed a consecutive series of 23 patients treated for segmental bone defects post open distal femur fracture using a titanium mesh cage combined with the Masquelet technique under a 2-staged protocol in our institution from 2017 to 2021. The study group consisted of 13 men and 10 women with an average age of 44.1 years. The surgical debridement was performed with antibiotic polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) cement spacer implanted into the bone defect combined with cement-wrapped plate stabilization, or antibiotic beads with vacuum sealing drainage (VSD) to cover the wound. The second stage of the Masquelet technique for bone defect repair began at least 4-6 weeks after the first stage, once all signs of possible infection were eliminated. After the cement spacer was removed, the definitive reconstruction was completed with exchange to a cylindrical titanium mesh cage filled with cancellous autograft within the induced membrane. The bone defect with cage was stabilized with a distal femoral Less Invasive Stabilization System (LISS). The radiological and clinical records of the enrolled patients were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 38.6 months. The average number of operations before the second stage was 1.3. The mean interval between the two stages was 12.7 weeks. The average length of the defect measured 8.3 cm (ranging from 6.1 to 12.4 cm). All the defects filled with autograft within the cage achieved bony union, with a mean healing time of 8.4 months. At the latest follow-up, the mean knee extension measured 6.2° (ranging from 0° to 20°), and the mean flexion measured 101.8° (ranging from 60° to 120°). Complications included two instances of superficial stitch abscess, which eventually healed.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of a titanium cage implanted into an induced membrane in a 2-staged Masquelet protocol could achieve satisfactory clinical outcomes in cases of segmental defects following open distal femur fractures.

Chitosan-based nano-micelles for potential anti-tumor immunotherapy: Synergistic effect of cGAS-STING signaling pathway activation and tumor antigen absorption

Cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon gene (STING) signaling pathway is an essential DNA-sensing pathway to regulate the innate and adaptive immune response, which plays an important role in tumor immunotherapy. Although the STING agonists can be used, they are limited by their inability to target immune cells and systemic immunotoxicity, calling for novel strategies to accurately and effectively activate the cGAS-STING signaling pathway. Herein, mannose-modified stearic acid-grafted chitosan (M-CS-SA) micelles with the ability to activate the cGAS-STING signaling pathway and absorb tumor antigens were constructed. The chitosan-based nano-micelles showed valid dendritic cell (DCs) targeting and could escape from lysosomes leading to the activation of the cGAS-STING signaling pathway and the maturation of DCs. In addition, a combinatorial therapy was presented based on the programmed administration of oxaliplatin and M-CS-SA. M-CS-SA adsorbed tumor antigens released by chemotherapy to construct an autologous tumor vaccine and built a comprehensive antitumor immune response. In vivo, the combinatorial therapy achieved a tumor inhibition rate of 76.31 % at the oxaliplatin dose of 5 mg/kg and M-CS-SA dose of 15 mg/kg, and increased the CD3+ CD8+ T cell infiltration. This work demonstrated that M-CS-SA and its co-treatment with oxaliplatin showed great potential in tumor immunotherapy.

Nanocarriers transport across the gastrointestinal barriers: The contribution to oral bioavailability via blood circulation and lymphatic pathway

Oral administration is the preferred route of drug delivery in clinical practice due to its noninvasiveness, safety, convenience, and high patient compliance. The gastrointestinal tract (GIT) plays a crucial role in facilitating the targeted delivery of oral drugs. However, the GIT presents multiple barriers that impede drug absorption, including the gastric barrier in the stomach and the mucus and epithelial barriers in the intestine. In recent decades, nanotechnology has emerged as a promising approach for overcoming these challenges by utilizing nanocarrier-based drug delivery systems such as liposomes, micelles, polymeric nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles, and inorganic nanoparticles. Encapsulating drugs within nanocarriers not only protects them from degradation but also enhances their transport and absorption across the GIT, ultimately improving oral bioavailability. The aim of this review is to elucidate the mechanisms underlying nanocarrier-mediated transportation across the GIT into systemic circulation via both the blood circulation and lymphatic pathway.

Role of LncMALAT1-miR-141-3p/200a-3p-NRXN1 Axis in the Impairment of Learning and Memory Capacity in ADHD

As a prevalent neurodevelopmental disease, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) impairs the learning and memory capacity, and so far, there has been no available treatment option for long-term efficacy. Alterations in gene regulation and synapse-related proteins influence learning and memory capacity; nevertheless, the regulatory mechanism of synapse-related protein synthesis is still unclear in ADHD. LncRNAs have been found participating in regulating genes in multiple disorders. For instance, lncRNA Metastasis Associated Lung Adenocarcinoma Transcript 1 (MALAT1) has an essential regulatory function in numerous psychiatric diseases. However, how MALAT1 influences synapse-related protein synthesis in ADHD remains largely unknown. Here, our study found that MALAT1 decreased in the hippocampus tissue of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) compared to the standard controls, Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats. Subsequent experiments revealed that MALAT1 enhanced the expression of neurexin 1 (NRXN1), which promoted the synapse-related genes (SYN1, PSD95, and GAP43) expression. Then, the bioinformatic analyses predicted that miR-141-3p and miR-200a-3p, microRNAs belonging to miR-200 family and sharing same seed sequence, could interact with MALAT1 and NRXN1 mRNA, which were further confirmed by luciferase report assays. Finally, rescue experiments indicated that MALAT1 influenced the expression of NRXN1 by sponging miR-141-3p/200a-3p. All data verified our hypothesis that MALAT1 regulated synapse-related proteins (SYN1, PSD95, and GAP43) through the MALAT1-miR-141-3p/200a-3p-NRXN1 axis in ADHD. Our research underscored a novel role of MALAT1 in the pathogenesis of impaired learning and memory capacity in ADHD and may shed more light on developing diagnostic biomarkers and more effective therapeutic interventions for individuals with ADHD.

"Targeted plus controlled" - Composite nano delivery system opens the tumor vascular and microenvironment normalization window for anti-tumor therapy

The bottleneck of traditional anti-tumor therapy is mainly limited by the abnormal microenvironment of tumors. Leaky vessels are difficult for drugs or immune cells to penetrate deep into tumors, but tumor cells can easily escape through which and metastasize to other organs. Reprogramming the tumor microenvironment is one of the main directions for anti-cancer research, among which, tumor vascular normalization has received increasing attention. However, how to control the dose and time of anti-angiogenic drugs for stable vascular normalizing effect limits it for further research. We developed a composite nano delivery system, P-V@MG, with double delivery function of pH-responsibility and sustained drug release. The PHMEMA shell improves amphiphilicity of nano delivery system and prolongs in vivo retention, and releases V@MG in the weakly acidic tumor microenvironment, which slowly release anti-angiogenic drugs, Vandetanib. We found that P-V@MG not only prolonged the normalization window of tumor vascular but also reprogram tumor microenvironment with increased perfusion, immune cells infiltration and relieved hypoxia, which further opened the pathway for other anti-cancer therapeutics. This synergy was proved by the improving anti-tumor efficiency by combination of P-V@MG with the doxorubicin hydrochloride in 4 T1 breast cancer model suggesting the desirable value of pro-vascular normalization nano delivery systems in the field of anti-tumor combination therapy.

A phase I study of the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of contezolid acefosamil after intravenous and oral administration in healthy Chinese subjects

Contezolid acefosamil (also known as MRX-4), a prodrug of contezolid, is under development for treatment of multidrug-resistant Gram-positive bacterial infections. A phase I single ascending dose (SAD) and multiple-dose placebo-controlled study was conducted to assess the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics (PK) of contezolid acefosamil in healthy Chinese subjects following intravenous (IV) and oral administration. Adverse events (AEs) and PK parameters were assessed appropriately. All subjects (n = 70) completed the trial. Overall, 67 cases of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were observed in 49.1% (27 of 55) of the subjects receiving contezolid acefosamil. All TEAEs were mild in severity. No serious AEs or deaths were reported. After IV SAD (500-2,000 mg), the corresponding C max of the active drug contezolid increased from 1.95 ± 0.57 to 15.61 ± 4.88 mg/L, AUC0-inf from 40.25 ± 10.12 to 129.41 ± 38.30 h·mg/L, median T max from 2.00 to 2.75 h, and mean t 1/2 from 13.33 to 16.74 h. Plasma contezolid reached steady state on day 6 after multiple IV doses, with an accumulation ratio of 2.20-2.96. Oral SAD of 500 and 1,500 mg resulted in contezolid C max of 8.66 ± 2.60 and 37.10 ± 8.66 mg/L, AUC0-inf of 30.44 ± 7.33 and 162.36 ± 47.08 h·mg/L, and median T max of 2.50 and 2.98 h. Contezolid reached steady state on day 5 after multiple oral doses of 1,500 mg without significant accumulation. Contezolid C max and AUC0-inf increased with the dose of contezolid acefosamil. The good safety and PK profiles in this SAD and multiple-dose study can support further clinical development of contezolid acefosamil.

Intervening in hnRNPA2B1-mediated exosomal transfer of tumor-suppressive miR-184-3p for tumor microenvironment regulation and cancer therapy

BACKGROUND

Despite being a common malignant tumor, the molecular mechanism underlying the initiation and progression of triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs) remain unclear. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are often polarized into a pro-tumor phenotype and are associated with a poor prognosis of TNBCs. Exosomes, important mediators of cell-cell communication, can be actively secreted by donor cells to reprogram recipient cells. The functions and molecular mechanisms of tumor cell-derived exosomes in TNBCs progression and TAMs reprogramming urgently need to be further explored.

RESULTS

We demonstrated that tumor cell-derived exosomes enriched with miR-184-3p were taken up by macrophages to inhibit JNK signaling pathway by targeting EGR1, thereby inducing M2 polarization of macrophages and synergistically promoting tumor progression. Nanoparticles loaded with oncogene c-Myc inhibitor JQ1 could suppress the polarization process by reducing Rac1-related exosome uptake by macrophage. More importantly, it was found for the first time that tumor-suppressive miR-184-3p was actively sorted into exosomes by binding to RNA-binding protein heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A2B1 (hnRNPA2B1), thus facilitating tumor cell proliferation and metastasis by relieving the inhibitory effect of miR-184-3p on Mastermind-like 1 (MAML1). Overexpressing miR-184-3p in tumor cells and simultaneously knocking down hnRNPA2B1 to block its secretion through exosomes could effectively inhibit tumor growth and metastasis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study revealed that hnRNPA2B1-mediated exosomal transfer of tumor-suppressive miR-184-3p from breast cancer cells to macrophages was an important mediator of TNBCs progression, providing new insights into TNBCs pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies.

Nonselective beta-adrenoceptor blocker use and risk of Parkinson's disease: from multiple real-world evidence

BACKGROUND

People with hypertension have a higher risk of developing Parkinson's disease (PD), epidemiological evidence suggests that multiple antihypertensives may affect the occurrence and development of PD with inconsistent results. With multisource data, we sought to determine whether specific antihypertensive classes elevated or reduced the risk for PD.

METHODS

We used a mixed methods approach that combines 4 methodologies. First, we conducted a disproportionality analysis using the reports causing adverse events in the US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Events Reporting System (FAERS) to explore the effect of different classes of antihypertensive medications on the risk of PD; based on the findings from FAERS, a meta-analysis and a UK Biobank cohort analysis were used to further assess the association of drug use with PD; finally, we employed Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to validate the causal relationship between the drug target and the occurrence of PD.

RESULTS

In the disproportionality analysis using the FAERS (N = 187,266), nonselective beta-adrenoceptor blockers (NBBs) were demonstrated to have a significant association with PD (reporting odds ratio (ROR) = 3.13; 95% CI 2.33-4.22). In the meta-analysis of 12 studies with 12,183,809 participants, PD risk was elevated in NBBs (RR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.19-2.09) when stratified by subtypes of BBs. Among the 105,763 participants included in the cohort analysis using data from the UK Biobank, individuals who used NBBs had a significantly increased risk of PD compared to nonusers (HR, 1.47; 95% CI 1.04-2.06). The MR analysis revealed a significant association between higher expression of the β2 adrenergic receptor (ADRB2) gene, a drug target blocked by NBBs, and a reduced risk of PD (OR, 0.85; 95% CI 0.73-0.99).

CONCLUSIONS

Our comprehensive study indicated that regular NBB use is associated with an increased risk of PD. In light of the detrimental effects of NBBs on PD, some people should choose alternative antihypertensive treatments.

GSH-Responsive Polymeric Micelles for Remodeling the Tumor Microenvironment to Improve Chemotherapy and Inhibit Metastasis in Breast Cancer

The tumor microenvironment (TME) of breast cancer is hypoxic, which can promote tumor progression, including invasion and metastasis, and limit the efficacy of anti-tumor treatment. Nitric oxide (NO) can dilate blood vessels, effectively alleviate hypoxia, and regulate the TME, which has the potential to improve the anti-tumor therapeutic efficacy. Here, chitosan (CO) and octadecylamine (ODA) were linked by the disulfide bond, and the LinTT1 peptide was linked onto CO-SS-ODA for targeting tumor cells and endothelial cells in tumors. The NO donor S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP) was connected to CO. Doxorubicin (DOX) was encapsulated, and GSH hierarchically responsive polymer micelles (TSCO-SS-ODA/DOX) were constructed for the treatment of breast cancer. The micelles had differently responsive drug release in different GSH concentrations. In endothelial cells, the micelles rapidly responded to release NO. In tumor cells, the disulfide bond rapidly broke and released DOX to effectively kill tumor cells. The disulfide bond was not sensitive to GSH concentration in endothelial cells, which had less release of DOX. The killing effect of the micelles to endothelial cells was much lower than that to tumor cells. The cell selective drug release of the drug delivery systems enabled safe and effective treatment of drugs. TSCO-SS-ODA/DOX, which had the excellent ability to target tumors, can alleviate tumor hypoxia, decrease the infiltration of M2 macrophages in tumors, increase the infiltration of M1 macrophages in tumors, and remodel the TME. Notably, TSCO-SS-ODA/DOX can significantly inhibit the growth of the primary tumor and effectively inhibit tumor metastasis. The drug delivery system provided a potential solution for effectively treating breast cancer.

Integrative bioinformatics analysis reveals STAT2 as a novel biomarker of inflammation-related cardiac dysfunction in atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common critical cause of stroke and cardiac dysfunction worldwide with lifetime risks. Viral infection and inflammatory response with myocardial involvement may lead to an increase in AF-related mortality. To dissect the potential sequelae of viral infection in AF patients, especially the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), based on AF and COVID-19 databases from Gene Expression Omnibus, weighted gene co-expression network analysis was used to identify key genes in heart tissues and peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Here, HSCT, PSMB9, STAT2, and TNFSF13B were identified as common risk genes of AF and COVID-19 patients. Correlation analysis of these genes with AF and COVID-19 showed a positive disease relevance. silencing of STAT2 by small interfering RNA significantly rescued SARS-CoV-2 XBB1.5 pseudovirus-induced cardiac cell contraction dysfunction in vitro. In conclusion, we identified STAT2 may be a novel biomarker of inflammation-related cardiac dysfunction in AF.

The impact of freezing methods on the quality, moisture distribution, microstructure, and flavor profile of hand-grabbed mutton during long-term frozen storage

The aim of present study was to investigate the influence of conventional freezing (CF, -18 °C), low-temperaturefreezing (LF, -40 °C), and ultra-low-temperature freezing (ULF, -80 °C) on the quality, moisture distribution, microstructure, and flavor profile of hand-grabbed mutton (HGM) during frozen storage (0, 30, 60, 90, 120, 150 and 180 days). The TPC, TVB-N, and TBARS values increased significantly with prolonged storage, while the moisture content decreased (P < 0.05). Additionally, the concentrations of aldehydes, alcohols, ketones, acids, and alkenes decreased significantly as the storage duration increased. However, the concentrations of esters and heterocyclics increased (P < 0.05). Notably, at 30-180 days of storage, the TBARS and TVB-N values in ULF samples were significantly lower than those in CF and LF samples, while the moisture content was significantly higher (P < 0.05). Low field-nuclear magnetic resonance (LF-NMR) analysis showed that ULF decreased water migration and maintained the original texture characteristics of HGM during frozen storage. The ULF and LF groups had significantly higher levels of volatiles than the CF group (P < 0.05). The findings show that ULF, with its relatively rapid freezing rates, can still maintain the high quality of HGM after 180 days of frozen storage, contributing to quality control.

Small molecule screen identifies pyrimethamine as an inhibitor of NRF2-driven esophageal hyperplasia

OBJECTIVE

NRF2 is a master transcription factor that regulates the stress response. NRF2 is frequently mutated and activated in human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), which drives resistance to chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Therefore, a great need exists for NRF2 inhibitors for targeted therapy of NRF2high ESCC.

DESIGN

We performed high-throughput screening of two compound libraries from which hit compounds were further validated in human ESCC cells and a genetically modified mouse model. The mechanism of action of one compound was explored by biochemical assays.

RESULTS

Using high-throughput screening of two small molecule compound libraries, we identified 11 hit compounds as potential NRF2 inhibitors with minimal cytotoxicity at specified concentrations. We then validated two of these compounds, pyrimethamine and mitoxantrone, by demonstrating their dose- and time-dependent inhibitory effects on the expression of NRF2 and its target genes in two NRF2Mut human ESCC cells (KYSE70 and KYSE180). RNAseq and qPCR confirmed the suppression of global NRF2 signaling by these two compounds. Mechanistically, pyrimethamine reduced NRF2 half-life by promoting NRF2 ubiquitination and degradation in KYSE70 and KYSE180 cells. Expression of an Nrf2E79Q allele in mouse esophageal epithelium (Sox2CreER;LSL-Nrf2E79Q/+) resulted in an NRF2high phenotype, which included squamous hyperplasia, hyperkeratinization, and hyperactive glycolysis. Treatment with pyrimethamine (30 mg/kg/day, p.o.) suppressed the NRF2high esophageal phenotype with no observed toxicity.

CONCLUSION

We have identified and validated pyrimethamine as an NRF2 inhibitor that may be rapidly tested in the clinic for NRF2high ESCC.

Unleashing the Full Potential of Photo-Driven CO Hydrogenation to Light Olefins over Carbon-Coated CoMn-Based Catalysts

As a nonpetroleum process, photodriven Fischer-Tropsch synthesis provides a practical approach for the synthesis of light olefins. However, maximizing the solar-energy conversion efficiency based on the design of the composite catalyst and understanding the catalytic mechanism remain challenging. Herein, a novel carbon-coated CoMn-based catalyst, a C-coated mixture of Co and MnO, is designed for the efficient conversion of syngas to light olefins under light irradiation. The CoMnC-450 catalyst exhibits a CO conversion of 12.6% with a selectivity to light olefins of 36.5% under light irradiation, showing 5.5-fold the activity of thermocatalysis. Experimental characterizations as certain the CoMnC-450 catalyst can be excited to generate photogenerated carriers under light irradiation and then the electron transfer to metallic Co to form electron-rich active sites with carbon mediation, thereby enhancing the catalytic performance. In situ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and theoretical calculation based on density functional theory reveal the unique roles of photogenerated carriers in promoting the adsorption and activation of CO molecules. This study demonstrates a feasible catalyst model to efficiently utilize full-spectral solar light to produce the value-added chemical.

Risk Factors for Significant Intraoperative Blood Loss during Anterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion for Degenerative Cervical Diseases

OBJECTIVES

Anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACF) has become a widely accepted surgical treatment for degenerative cervical diseases, but occasionally, significant intraoperative blood loss (SIBL), which is defined as IBL of 500 mL or more, will occur. We aimed to investigate the independent risk factors for SIBL during ACF for degenerative cervical diseases.

METHODS

We enrolled 1150 patients who underwent ACF for degenerative cervical diseases at our hospital between 2013 and 2019. The patients were divided into two groups: the SIBL group (n = 38) and the non-SIBL group (n = 1112). Demographic, surgical and radiographic data were recorded prospectively to investigate the independent risk factors for SIBL. For counting data, the chi-square test or Fisher's exact probability test was used. Student's t-test or the Mann-Whitney rank sum test was used for comparisons between groups of measurement data. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were further used to analyze the significance of potential risk factors.

RESULTS

The incidence of SIBL during ACF was 3.3% (38/1150). A multivariate analysis revealed that female sex (odds ratio [OR], 6.285; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.707-14.595; p < 0.001), corpectomy (OR, 3.872; 95% CI, 1.616-9.275; p = 0.002), duration of operation ≥150 min (OR, 8.899; 95% CI, 4.042-19.590; p < 0.001), C3 involvement (OR, 4.116; 95% CI, 1.808-9.369; p = 0.001) and ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) at the surgical level (OR, 6.007; 95% CI, 2.218-16.270; p < 0.001) were independent risk factors for SIBL. Patients with SIBL had more days of first-degree/intensive nursing (p = 0.003), longer length of stay (p = 0.003) and higher hospitalization costs (p = 0.023).

CONCLUSION

Female sex, corpectomy, duration of operation, C3 involvement and OPLL at the surgical level were independent risk factors for SIBL during ACF. SIBL in ACF was associated with more days of first-degree/intensive nursing, longer length of stay and higher hospitalization costs.

Fructo-oligosaccharide enhanced bioavailability of polyglycosylated anthocyanins from red radish via regulating gut microbiota in mice

The anthocyanins from red radish (ARR) rich in polyglycosylated pelargonidin glucosides were used as pigment. However, bioavailability of anthocyanins was considered at low level. This work examined the intensive effects of fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS) on ARR bioavailability. Pelargonidin, cyanidin and pelargonidin-3-glucoside showed higher level in serum of mice fed with FOS together with ARR for 8 weeks than that fed with only ARR. Co-ingestion of FOS and ARR more effectively elevated the hepatic antioxidant activity by increase in total antioxidant capacity and activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase when compared with intake of ARR. FOS also markedly increased pelargonidin level in cecum of mice. 16S RNA sequencing found that Bacteroides genus play an important role in FOS elevating bioavailability of ARR. Fecal bacteria transplantation verified the positive effects of FOS on ARR bioavailability. These results suggested that combined ingestion of FOS and ARR is effective strategy for bioactivity of ARR.