Metabolomic screening of radioiodine refractory thyroid cancer patients and the underlying chemical mechanism of iodine resistance

Radioiodine refractory (RAIR) patients do not benefit from iodine-131 therapy. Thus, timely identification of RAIR patients is critical for avoiding ineffective radioactive iodine therapy. In addition, determining the causes of iodine resistance will facilitate the development of novel treatment strategies. This study was comprised of 20 RAIR and 14 non-radioiodine refractory (non-RAIR) thyroid cancer patients. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to identify differences in the serum metabolites of RAIR and non-RAIR patients. In addition, chemical assays were performed to determine the effects of the differential metabolites on iodine uptake. Metabolic pathway enrichment analysis of the differential metabolites revealed significant differences in the phenylalanine and tyrosine metabolic pathways. Notably, quinate and shikimic acid, metabolites of the tyrosine pathway, were significantly increased in the RAIR group. In contrast, the phenylalanine pathway metabolites, hippuric acid and 2-phenylacetamide, were markedly decreased in the RAIR group. Thyroid peroxidase plays an important role in catalyzing the iodination of tyrosine residues, while the ionic state of iodine promotes the iodination reaction. Quinate, shikimic acid, hippuric acid, and 2-phenylacetamide were found to be involved in the iodination of tyrosine, which is a key step in thyroid hormone synthesis. Specifically, quinate and shikimic acid were found to inhibit iodination, while hippuric acid and 2-phenylacetamide promoted iodination. Abnormalities in phenylalanine and tyrosine metabolic pathways are closely associated with iodine resistance. Tyrosine is required for thyroid hormone synthesis and could be a potential cause of iodine resistance.

Irisin attenuates ventilator-induced diaphragmatic dysfunction by inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress through activation of AMPK

Mechanical ventilation (MV) is an essential life-saving technique, but prolonged MV can cause significant diaphragmatic dysfunction due to atrophy and decreased contractility of the diaphragm fibres, called ventilator-induced diaphragmatic dysfunction (VIDD). It is not clear about the mechanism of occurrence and prevention measures of VIDD. Irisin is a newly discovered muscle factor that regulates energy metabolism. Studies have shown that irisin can exhibit protective effects by downregulating endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in a variety of diseases; whether irisin plays a protective role in VIDD has not been reported. Sprague-Dawley rats were mechanically ventilated to construct a VIDD model, and intervention was performed by intravenous administration of irisin. Diaphragm contractility, degree of atrophy, cross-sectional areas (CSAs), ER stress markers, AMPK protein expression, oxidative stress indicators and apoptotic cell levels were measured at the end of the experiment.Our findings showed that as the duration of ventilation increased, the more severe the VIDD was, the degree of ER stress increased, and the expression of irisin decreased.ER stress may be one of the causes of VIDD. Intervention with irisin ameliorated VIDD by reducing the degree of ER stress, attenuating oxidative stress, and decreasing the apoptotic index. MV decreases the expression of phosphorylated AMPK in the diaphragm, whereas the use of irisin increases the expression of phosphorylated AMPK. Irisin may exert its protective effect by activating the phosphorylated AMPK pathway.

Development of aptamer surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy sensor based on Fe3O4@Pt and Au@Ag nanoparticles for the determination of acetamiprid

As a common chlorinated nicotinic pesticide with high insecticidal activity, acetamiprid has been widely used for pest control. However, the irrational use of acetamiprid will pollute the environment and thus affect human health. Therefore, it is crucial to develop a simple, highly sensitive, and rapid method for acetamiprid residue detection. In this study, the capture probe (Fe3O4@Pt-Aptamer) was connected with the signal probe (Au@DTNB@Ag CS-cDNA) to form an assembly with multiple SERS-enhanced effects. Combined with magnetic separation technology, a SERS sensor with high sensitivity and stability was constructed to detect acetamiprid residue. Based on the optimal conditions, the SERS intensity measured at 1333 cm-1 is in relation to the concentration of acetamiprid in the range 2.25 × 10-9-2.25 × 10-5 M, and the calculated limit of detection (LOD) was 2.87 × 10-10 M. There was no cross-reactivity with thiacloprid, clothianidin, nitenpyram, imidacloprid, and chlorpyrifos, indicating that this method has good sensitivity and specificity. Finally, the method was applied to the detection of acetamiprid in cucumber samples, and the average recoveries were 94.19-103.58%, with RSD < 2.32%. The sensor can be used to analyse real samples with fast detection speed, high sensitivity, and high selectivity.

TXNIP/NLRP3 aggravates global cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury-induced cognitive decline in mice

Global cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (GCI/R) injury poses a risk for cognitive decline, with neuroinflammation considered pivotal in this process. This study aimed to unravel the molecular mechanisms underlying GCI/R injury and propose a potential therapeutic strategy for associated cognitive deficits. Utilizing bioinformatics analysis of a public microarray profile (GSE30655 and GSE80681) in cerebral ischemic mice, it was observed that neuroinflammation emerged as a significant gene ontology item, with an increase in the expression of thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) and NLRP3 genes. Experimental models involving bilateral occlusion of the common carotid arteries in mice revealed that GCI/R induced cognitive impairment, along with a time-dependent increase in TXNIP and NLRP3 levels. Notably, TXNIP knockdown alleviated cognitive dysfunction in mice. Furthermore, the introduction of adeno-associated virus injection with TXNIP knockdown reduced the number of activated microglia, apoptosis neurons, and levels of oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines in the hippocampus. Collectively, these findings underscore the significance of TXNIP/NLRP3 in the hippocampus in exacerbating cognitive decline due to GCI/R injury, suggesting that TXNIP knockdown holds promise as a therapeutic strategy.

Health risk assessment of soil heavy metals in a typical mining town in north China based on Monte Carlo simulation coupled with Positive matrix factorization model

The accumulation of heavy metals (HMs) in soil caused by mineral resource exploitation and its ancillary industrial processes poses a threat to ecology and public health. Effective risk control measures require a quantification of the impacts and contributions to health risks from individual sources of soil HMs. Based on high-density sampling, soil contamination risk indexes, positive matrix factorization (PMF) model, Monte Carlo simulation and human health risk analysis model were applied to investigate the risk of HMs in a typical mining town in North China. The results showed that As was the most dominant soil pollutant factor, Cd and Hg were the most dominant soil ecological risk factors, and Cr and Ni were the most dominant health risk factors in the study area. Overall, both pollution and ecological risks were at low levels, while there were still some higher hazard areas located in the central and south-central part of the region. According to the probabilistic health risk assessment (HRA), children suffered greater health risks than adults, with 21.63% of non-carcinogenic risks and 53.24% of carcinogenic risks exceeding the prescribed thresholds (HI > 1 and TCR>1E-4). The PMF model identified five potential sources: fuel combustion (FC), processing of building materials with limestone as raw materials (PBML), industry source (IS), iron ore mining combined with garbage (IOG), and agriculture source (AS). PBML is the primary source of soil HM contamination, as well as the major anthropogenic source of carcinogenic risk for all populations. Agricultural inputs associated with As are the major source of non-carcinogenic risk. This study offers a good example of probabilistic HRA using specific sources, which can provide a valuable reference for strategy establishment of pollution remediation and risk prevention and control.

Construction and biological effects of a redox-enzyme dual-responsive lufenuron nano-controlled release formulation

BACKGROUND

Pesticide formulations based on nanotechnology can effectively improve the efficiency of pesticide utilization and reduce pesticide residues in the environment. In this study, mesoporous silica nanoparticles containing disulfide bonds were synthesized by the sol-gel method, carboxylated and adsorbed with lufenuron, and grafted with cellulose to obtain a lufenuron-loaded nano-controlled release formulation (Luf@MSNs-ss-cellulose).

RESULTS

The structure and properties of Luf@MSNs-ss-cellulose were characterized. The results showed that Luf@MSNs-ss-cellulose exhibits a regular spherical shape with 12.41% pesticide loading. The highest cumulative release rate (73.46%) of this pesticide-loaded nanoparticle was observed at 7 days in the environment of glutathione and cellulase, which shows redox-enzyme dual-responsive performance. As a result of cellulose grafting, Luf@MSNs-ss-cellulose had a small contact angle and high adhesion work on corn leaves, indicating good wetting and adhesion properties. After 14 days of spraying with 20 mg L-1 formulations in the long-term control efficacy experiment, the mortality of Luf@MSNs-ss-cellulose against Ostrinia furnacalis larvae (56.67%) was significantly higher than that of commercial Luf@EW (36.67%). Luf@MSNs-ss-cellulose is safer for earthworms and L02 cells.

CONCLUSION

The nano-controlled release formulation obtained in this study achieved intelligent pesticide delivery in time and space under the environmental stimulation of glutathione and cellulase, providing an effective method for the development of novel pesticide delivery systems. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Vitamin K1 ameliorates lipopolysaccharide-triggered skeletal muscle damage revealed by faecal bacteria transplantation

BACKGROUND

Sepsis-associated muscle weakness is common in patients of intensive care units (ICUs), and it is closely associated with poor outcomes. The mechanism of sepsis-induced muscle weakness is unclear. Recent studies have found that gut microbiota and metabolites are involved in the regulation of skeletal muscle mass and metabolism. This study aimed to investigate the effects of gut microbiota and metabolites on sepsis-associated muscle weakness.

METHODS

In a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation mouse model, mice with different sensitivities to LPS-induced inflammation were considered as donor mice for the faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) assay, and recipient mice were divided into sensitive (Sen) and resistant (Res) groups. Skeletal muscle mass and function, as well as colonic barrier integrity were tested and gut microbiota and metabolite composition were analysed in both groups of mice. The effect of intestinal differential metabolite vitamin K1 on LPS-triggered muscle damage was investigated, and the underlying mechanism was explored.

RESULTS

Recipients exhibited varying LPS-triggered muscle damage and intestinal barrier disruption. Tibialis anterior (TA) muscle of Sen exhibited upregulated expression levels of MuRF-1 (0.825 ± 0.063 vs. 0.304 ± 0.293, P = 0.0141) and MAFbx (1.055 ± 0.079 vs. 0.456 ± 0.3, P = 0.0092). Colonic tight junction proteins ZO-1 (0.550 ± 0.087 vs. 0.842 ± 0.094, P = 0.0492) and occludin (0.284 ± 0.057 vs. 0.664 ± 0.191, P = 0.0487) were significantly downregulated in the Sen group. Metabolomic analysis showed significantly higher vitamin K1 in the faeces (P = 0.0195) and serum of the Res group (P = 0.0079) than those of the Sen group. After vitamin K1 intervention, muscle atrophy-related protein expression downregulated (P < 0.05). Meanwhile SIRT1 protein expression were upregulated (0.320 ± 0.035 vs. 0.685 ± 0.081, P = 0.0281) and pNF-κB protein expression were downregulated (0.815 ± 0.295 vs. 0.258 ± 0.130, P = 0.0308). PI3K (0.365 ± 0.142 vs. 0.763 ± 0.013, P = 0.0475), pAKT (0.493 ± 0.159 vs. 1.183 ± 0.344, P = 0.0254) and pmTOR (0.509 ± 0.088 vs. 1.110 ± 0.190, P = 0.0368) protein expression levels were upregulated in TA muscle. Meanwhile, vitamin K1 attenuated serum inflammatory factor levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Vitamin K1 might ameliorate LPS-triggered skeletal muscle damage by antagonizing NF-κB-mediated inflammation through upregulation of SIRT1 and regulating the balance between protein synthesis and catabolism.

A biodegradable oxidized starch/carboxymethyl chitosan film coated with pesticide-loaded ZIF-8 for tomato fusarium wilt control

Film mulching is one of the most important methods to control soil-borne diseases. However, the traditional mulch may cause microplastic pollution and soil ecological damage. Herein, a biodegradable film was developed using oxidized starch and carboxymethyl chitosan and incorporated ZIF-8 carrying fludioxonil to sustainably control soil-borne disease. The microstructure, mechanical properties, optical properties, and water barrier properties of the composite films (Flu@ZIF-8-OS/CMCS) were investigated. The results show that Flu@ZIF-8-OS/CMCS had a smooth and uniform surface and excellent light transmittance. The excellent mechanical properties of the films were verified by tensile strength, elongation at break and Young's modulus. Higher contact angle and lower water vapor permeability indicate water retention capacity of the soil was improved through using Flu@ZIF-8-OS/CMCS. Furthermore, the release properties, biological activity, degradability and safety to soil organisms of Flu@ZIF-8-OS/CMCS was determined. The addition of ZIF-8 significantly improved the film's ability to retard the release of Flu, while the Flu@ZIF-8-OS/CMCS has good soil degradability. In vitro antifungal assays and pot experiments demonstrated excellent inhibitory activity against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Lycopersici. Flu@ZIF-8-OS/CMCS caused only 13.33 % mortality of earthworms within 7 d. This research provides a new approach to reducing microplastic pollution and effectively managing soil-borne diseases.

RBM3 Accelerates Wound Healing of Skin in Diabetes through ERK1/2 Signaling

BACKGROUND

With the increasing risk of infections and other serious complications, the underlying molecular mechanism of wound healing impairment in diabetes deserves attention. Cold shock proteins (CSPs), including CIRP and RBM3 are highly expressed in the skin; however, it is unknown whether CSPs are involved in the wound-healing impairment of diabetic skin.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of RBM3 on skin wound healing in diabetes.

METHODS

In vitro experiments, western blot assay was used to test the levels of proteins in HaCaT cells treated with different concentrations of glucose. RBM3 was over-expressed in HaCaT cells using lentivirus particles. Cell viability was analyzed by Cell-Counting Kit-8 assay and colony formation assay. The migration of HaCaT cells at different concentrations of glucose was evaluated by wound healing assay. In vivo experiments, the mouse model of diabetes was established by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. Four weeks later, the mice were anesthetized by intraperitoneal injection of pentobarbital sodium for skin tissue collection or wound healing experiments. RBM3 knockout mice were established by removing exons 2-6 using the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-Cas9 technique and then used in skin wound healing experiments with or without diabetic stress.

RESULTS

In this study, the expression of RBM3, rather than CIRP, was altered in the skin of diabetic specimens, and the RBM3's overexpression accelerated the cell viability and proliferation of HaCaT cells under high glucose conditions. RBM3 deficiency caused delayed wound healing in RBM3 knockout in diabetic conditions. Moreover. RBM3 enhanced the ERK1/2 signaling pathway, and its inhibitor FR180204 blocked the beneficial effect of RBM3 overexpression on skin wound healing in diabetes.

CONCLUSION

RBM3 activated the ERK1/2 signal to facilitate skin wound healing in diabetes, offering a novel therapeutic target for its treatment.

Mesenchymal Stem Cell-derived Type II Alveolar Epithelial Progenitor Cells Attenuate LPS-induced Acute Lung Injury and Reduce P63 Expression

AIM

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)/acute lung injury (ALI) is a severe clinical respiratory-failure disease mainly characterized by acute damage to the alveolar epithelium and pulmonary vascular endothelial cells. Stem cell therapy has emerged as a potential regenerative strategy for ARDS/ALI, however, the outcome is limited, and the underlying mechanisms are unclear.

INTRODUCTION

We established a differentiation system for bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cellderived (BM-MSC) type II alveolar epithelial progenitor cells (AECIIs) and assessed their regulatory effects on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI.

METHODS

We induced BM-MSC differentiation into AECIIs using a specific conditioned medium. After 26 days of differentiation, 3×105 BM-MSC-AECIIs were used to treat mice with LPS-induced ALI through tracheal injection.

RESULTS

After tracheal injection, BM-MSC-AECIIs migrated to the perialveolar area and reduced LPSinduced lung inflammation and pathological injury. RNA-seq suggested that P63 protein was involved in the effects of BM-MSC-AECIIs on lung inflammation.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that BM-MSC-AECIIs may reduce LPS-induced acute lung injury by decreasing P63 expression.

Exopolysaccharide from Weissella confusa J4-1 inhibits colorectal cancer via induction of cell cycle arrest

Exopolysaccharide (EPS), a bioproduct of lactic acid bacteria (LAB), has various health-promoting biological activities that may be beneficial for cancer therapy. This in vivo and in vitro study aimed to elucidate the anti-colorectal cancer (CRC) capacity of a homopolysaccharide EPS obtained from Weissella confusa J4-1 (EPSJ4-1) isolated from the faeces of healthy infants. We confirmed that EPSJ4-1 contained glucose and effectively suppressed the proliferation, migration, and invasion of CRC cells. EPSJ4-1 treatment significantly retarded the growth of HT-29 tumour xenografts without causing cytotoxicity to normal organs. EPSJ4-1 exerts an inhibitory effect on cell proliferation by inducing G0/G1 phase cell cycle arrest in CRC cells. Furthermore, EPSJ4-1 upregulated p21 levels and downregulated mutant p53 and cyclin kinase 2 levels. This is the first study to demonstrate the antitumour effects of EPS from W. confusa on CRC via cell cycle arrest and inhibition of cell migration and invasion, suggesting that EPSJ4-1 has the potential to be developed as a nutraceutical or pharmaceutical drug to prevent and treat CRC.

The SIRT3 activator ganoderic acid D regulates airway mucin MUC5AC expression via the NRF2/GPX4 pathway

PURPOSE

The expression of MUC5AC, a highly prevalent airway mucin, is regulated by stimulatory factors such as oxidative stress. Ganoderic acid D (GAD) activates mitochondrial deacetylase SIRT3. SIRT3 regulates mitochondrial function through deacetylation of mitochondrial proteins, thereby playing a significant role in alleviating oxidative stress-related diseases. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the mechanisms and rationale underlying the regulation of MUC5AC expression by GAD.

METHODS

Human airway epithelial cells (NCI-H292) were exposed to pyocyanin (PCN) to establish an in vitro cell model of airway mucus hypersecretion. The expression of SIRT3, MUC5AC, and NRF2 pathway proteins in cells was assessed. Cellular mitochondrial morphology and oxidative stress markers were analyzed. C57BL/6 mice were induced with Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) to establish an in vivo mouse model of airway mucus hypersecretion. The expression of SIRT3 and MUC5AC in the airways was examined. In addition, the differential expression of target genes in the airway epithelial tissues of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was analyzed using publicly available databases.

RESULTS

The results revealed a significant upregulation of MUC5AC expression and a significant downregulation of SIRT3 expression in relation to airway mucus hypersecretion. GAD inhibited the overexpression of MUC5AC in PCN-induced NCI-H292 cells and PA-induced mouse airways by upregulating SIRT3. GAD activated the NRF2/GPX4 pathway and inhibited PCN-induced oxidative stress and mitochondrial morphological changes in NCI-H292 cells. However, ML385 inhibited the regulatory effects of GAD on MUC5AC expression.

CONCLUSION

The SIRT3 activator GAD downregulated MUC5AC expression, potentially through activation of the NRF2/GPX4 pathway. Accordingly, GAD may be a potential treatment approach for airway mucus hypersecretions.

Sodium alginate-carboxymethyl chitosan hydrogels loaded with difenoconazole for pH-responsive release to control wheat crown rot

Increasing concern about environmental pollution has driven the development of controlled release formulations for agrochemicals. Due to the advantages of degradability and responsiveness to environmental stimuli, polysaccharide-based hydrogel is an ideal carrier for agrochemicals controlled release. In this study, a method-easy polysaccharide hydrogel for controlled release of difenoconazole (DZ) was prepared with sodium alginate (SA) and carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS). Due to its three-dimensional crosslinked mesh structure, the prepared hydrogels (CSDZ) showed an agrochemical load capacity of 9.03 % and an encapsulation efficiency of 68.64 %. The release rate is faster in alkaline solution, followed by neutral solution, and slowest in an acid environment, which is consistent with the swelling behavior. Furthermore, leaching studies showed that CSDZ hydrogels have excellent protective properties for encapsulated agrochemicals. Compared with technical DZ, the results of in vitro and pot antifungal testing showed that CSDZ had a better control effect against wheat crown rot (Fusarium pseudograminearum). Safety assessment studies indicated that CSDZ hydrogels exhibit good biocompatibility on nontargeted organisms (Daphnia magna, zebrafish and Eisenia fetida) and wheat. This study aims to provide a potentially promising approach for the preparation and application of biocompatible polysaccharide-based hydrogels for agrochemical-controlled release in sustainable disease management.

The anticancer mechanisms of exopolysaccharide from Weissella cibaria D-2 on colorectal cancer via apoptosis induction

Exopolysaccharide (EPS) from Weissella cibaria has been devoted to the study of food industry. However, the anticancer activity of W. cibaria derived EPS has not yet been investigated. In this study, we obtained the EPS from W. cibaria D-2 isolated from the feces of healthy infants and found that D-2-EPS, a homopolysaccharide with porous web like structure, could effectively inhibit the proliferation, migration, invasion and induce cell cycle arrest in G0/G1 phase of colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. In HT-29 tumor xenografts, D-2-EPS significantly retarded tumor growth without obvious cytotoxicity to normal organs. Furthermore, we revealed that D-2-EPS promoted the apoptosis of CRC cells by increasing the levels of Fas, FasL and activating Caspase-8/Caspase-3, indicating that D-2-EPS might induce apoptosis through the extrinsic Fas/FasL pathway. Taken together, the D-2-EPS has the potential to be developed as a nutraceutical or drug to prevent and treat colorectal cancer.

A novel UVA-associated circUBE2I mediates ferroptosis in HaCaT cells

Alternative splicing of precursor messenger RNA (pre-mRNA), including linear splicing and back splicing, produces multiple isoforms that lead to diverse cell fates in response to stimuli including ultraviolet radiation (UVR). Although UVR-induced linear gene splicing has been extensively studied in skin cells, the UVR-induced gene back-splicing events that lead to the production of circular RNAs (circRNAs) have not been thoroughly investigated. The present study used circRNA transcriptome sequencing to screen the differentially expressed circRNAs in human keratinocytes (HaCaT) after UVA irradiation. A total of 312 differentially expressed circRNAs were found in HaCaT cells post-UVR. Among the UVA-induced differentially expressed circRNAs, circUBE2I-a novel circRNA formed by exons 2-6 of the UBE2I gene-was the most significantly upregulated circRNA. RT-qPCR assay further confirmed the increase of circUBE2I level in HaCaT cells after UVA irradiation or H2 O2 treatment. RNase R digestion experiment revealed the stability of circUBE2I. Overexpression of circUBE2I in keratinocytes induced ferroptosis after UVA or H2 O2 , preventable by the ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin-1. Our study provides new insights into the role of circular RNAs in UVA-induced skin cell damage and suggests that circUBE2I could be a therapeutic target in UVR-aroused ferroptosis in skin cells.

Fndc5/irisin deficiency leads to dysbiosis of gut microbiota contributing to the depressive-like behaviors in mice

BACKGROUND

Depression is one of the most common mental diseases and the leading cause of disability worldwide. A dysfunctional gut microbiota-brain axis is one of the main pathological bases of depression. Irisin, an exercise-related myokine, reduces depression-like behaviors and may guide the relief of depressive symptoms by exercise. However, its underlying mechanism remains unclear.

METHODS

Fibronectin type III domain containing 5 (Fndc5)/Irisin was knocked out in male wide-type C57BL/6N mice using CRISPR-cas9. The depression and anxiety symptoms were examined in irisin knockout and control mice with or without chronic unpredictable mild stress by sucrose preference test (SPT), forced swimming test (FST), and tail suspension test (TST). Fecal microbiota was assessed by 16S rRNA sequencing and microbiota-related metabolites using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. Differential metabolites were analyzed with the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses.

RESULTS

The knockout mice showed anxiety- and depression-like behaviors and altered diversity and richness of gut microbiota. At the phylum level, these mice had decreased Firmicutes and increased Bacteroidota populations, while at the genus level, they exhibited a low relative abundance of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. Moreover, knocking out of Irisin gene in these mice significantly reduced N-desmethyl-mifepristone (RU 42633) and elevated (-)-stercobilin levels. The KEGG results showed that the microbiota-related metabolites affected by irisin mainly clustered into arginine and proline metabolism and affected the mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase (mTOR) signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

Our findings show that Fndc5/irisin deficiency causes depression in mice by inducing dysbiosis of gut microbiota and changes in microbiota-related metabolites.

Research progress on the pathogenesis and treatment of ventilator-induced diaphragm dysfunction

Prolonged controlled mechanical ventilation (CMV) can cause diaphragm fiber atrophy and inspiratory muscle weakness, resulting in diaphragmatic contractile dysfunction, called ventilator-induced diaphragm dysfunction (VIDD). VIDD is associated with higher rates of in-hospital deaths, nosocomial pneumonia, difficulty weaning from ventilators, and increased costs. Currently, appropriate clinical strategies to prevent and treat VIDD are unavailable, necessitating the importance of exploring the mechanisms of VIDD and suitable treatment options to reduce the healthcare burden. Numerous animal studies have demonstrated that ventilator-induced diaphragm dysfunction is associated with oxidative stress, increased protein hydrolysis, disuse atrophy, and calcium ion disorders. Therefore, this article summarizes the molecular pathogenesis and treatment of ventilator-induced diaphragm dysfunction in recent years so that it can be better served clinically and is essential to reduce the duration of mechanical ventilation use, intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay, and the medical burden.

SEPSIS LEADS TO IMPAIRED MITOCHONDRIAL CALCIUM UPTAKE AND SKELETAL MUSCLE WEAKNESS BY REDUCING THE MICU1:MCU PROTEIN RATIO

ABSTRACT

Purpose: Intensive care unit-acquired weakness (ICUAW) is a severe neuromuscular complication that frequently occurs in patients with sepsis. The precise molecular pathophysiology of mitochondrial calcium uptake 1 (MICU1) and mitochondrial calcium uniporter (MCU) in ICUAW has not been fully elucidated. Here, we speculate that ICUAW is associated with MICU1:MCU protein ratio-mediated mitochondrial calcium ([Ca 2+ ] m ) uptake dysfunction. Methods: Cecal ligation and perforation (CLP) was performed on C57BL/6J mice to induce sepsis. Sham-operated animals were used as controls. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (5 μg/mL) was used to induce inflammation in differentiated C2C12 myoblasts. Compound muscle action potential (CMAP) was detected using a biological signal acquisition system. Grip strength was measured using a grip-strength meter. Skeletal muscle inflammatory factors were detected using ELISA kits. The cross-sectional area (CSA) of the tibialis anterior (TA) muscle was detected by hematoxylin and eosin staining. Cytosolic calcium ([Ca 2+ ] c ) levels were measured using Fluo-4 AM. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) was injected into TA muscles for 4 weeks to overexpress MICU1 prophylactically. A lentivirus was used to infect C2C12 cells to increase MICU1 expression prophylactically. Findings: The results suggest that sepsis induces [Ca 2+ ] m uptake disorder by reducing the MICU1:MCU protein ratio, resulting in skeletal muscle weakness and muscle fiber atrophy. However, MICU1 prophylactic overexpression reversed these effects by increasing the MICU1:MCU protein ratio. Conclusions: ICUAW is associated with impaired [Ca 2+ ] m uptake caused by a decreased MICU1:MCU protein ratio. MICU1 overexpression improves sepsis-induced skeletal muscle weakness and atrophy by ameliorating the [Ca 2+ ] m uptake disorder.

Exploring the role of esketamine in alleviating depressive symptoms in mice via the PGC-1α/irisin/ERK1/2 signaling pathway

Esketamine provides an immediate and noticeable antidepressant effect, although the underlying molecular processes are yet unclear. Irisin induced by aerobic exercise has been implicated in the alleviation of depressive symptoms, whether irisin expression responds to the administration of esketamine remains unknown. In this study, we found that irisin was reduced in the hippocampus and peripheral blood of chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) mice, whereas the irisin level was rescued by esketamine treatment. The reduction of PGC-1α expression (transcriptional regulator of irisin gene expression) in the CUMS mice was rescued by esketamine treatment, PGC-1α knockdown significantly reduced the irisin level induced by esketamine. Additionally, FNDC5/irisin-knockout mice developed more severe depressant-like behaviors than wild-type mice under CUMS stimulation, with an attenuated the antidepressant effect of esketamine. Further research indicated that irisin-mediated modulation of esketamine on depressive-like behaviors in CUMS mice involved the ERK1/2 pathway. Overall, the PGC-1α/irisin/ERK1/2 signaling activation may be a new mechanism underlying the antidepressant activity of esketamine, denoting that irisin may be a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of depression.

AIE-Active Glycomimetics Triggered Bacterial Agglutination and Membrane-Intercalating toward Efficient Photodynamic Antiseptic

Opportunistic infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) are particularly difficult to treat due to the altered membrane permeability and inherent resistance to conventional antibiotics. Here, a cationic glycomimetics is designed and synthesized with aggregation-induced emission (AIE) characteristics namely TPyGal, which self-assembles into the spherical aggregates with galactosylated surface. TPyGal aggregates can effectively cluster P. aeruginosa through multivalent carbohydrate-lectin interactions and auxiliary electrostatic interactions and subsequently trigger membrane-intercalating, which results in efficient photodynamic eradication of P. aeruginosa under white light irradiation by in situ singlet oxygen (1 O2 ) burst to disrupt bacterial membrane. Furthermore, the results demonstrate that TPyGal aggregates promote the healing of infected wounds, indicating the potential for clinical treatment of P. aeruginosa infections.

Tetracaine hydrochloride induces macrophage pyroptosis through caspase‑1/11‑GSDMD signaling pathways

Tetracaine hydrochloride (TTC) is a long-lasting local anesthetic commonly used for topical anesthesia. Inappropriate dosage or allergic reactions to TTC can lead to local anesthetic toxicity. TTC exerts cytotoxic effects on certain cell types by inducing apoptosis and necrosis; however, the effects of TTC on macrophages are currently unclear. In the present study, the RAW 264.7 and BV2 cell lines, and murine peritoneal macrophages, were used to evaluate the cytotoxicity of TTC. The present study demonstrated that TTC caused a decrease in cell viability according to a Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, increased lactate dehydrogenase and IL-1β secretion according to ELISA, and induced morphological changes characteristic of pyroptosis according to western blotting. Moreover, TTC-induced macrophage pyroptosis was mediated by gasdermin (GSDM)D, and the cleavage of GSDMD was modulated by both caspase-1 and caspase-11. These results were experimentally validated using caspase-1 and caspase-11 inhibitors. Furthermore, it was observed that TTC and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exerted similar effects on macrophages. However, the mechanism of induction of pyroptosis by TTC was different from that of LPS. The present study demonstrated that TTC alone could induce macrophage pyroptosis mediated by canonical and non-canonical inflammatory caspases. Therapies targeting pyroptosis may potentially provide a promising future strategy for the prevention and treatment of local anesthetic toxicity induced by TTC.

Stress-enhanced cardiac lncRNA Morrbid protects hearts from acute myocardial infarction

Myeloid RNA regulator of Bim-induced death (Morrbid) is a newly identified leukocyte-specific long noncoding RNA (lncRNA). However, the expression and biological functions of Morrbid in cardiomyocytes and heart disease are currently unclear. This study was meant to determine the role of cardiac Morrbid in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and to identify the potential cellular and molecular mechanisms involved. We found that both human and mouse cardiomyocytes could express a significant amount of Morrbid and that its expression was increased in cardiomyocytes with hypoxia or oxidative stress as well as in mouse hearts with AMI. Overexpression of Morrbid reduced the myocardial infarct size and cardiac dysfunction, whereas the infarct size and cardiac dysfunction deteriorated in cardiomyocyte-specific Morrbid-KO (Morrbidfl/fl/Myh6-Cre) mice. We identified that Morrbid had a protective effect against hypoxia- or H2O2-induced apoptosis; this was also confirmed in vivo in mouse hearts after AMI. We further discovered that serpine1 was a direct target gene of Morrbid that was involved in the Morrbid-mediated protective effect on cardiomyocytes. In summary, we have found, for the first time to our knowledge, that the cardiac Morrbid is a stress-enhanced lncRNA that protects hearts from AMI via antiapoptosis through its target gene serpine1. Morrbid may be a novel promising therapeutic target for ischemic heart diseases such as AMI.

Preparation and Characterization of a Novel Artemisia Oil Packaging Film and Its Application in Mango Preservation

In this work, a new food packaging film was synthesized via blending Artemisia oil (AO) into soybean protein isolate (SPI) and gelatin (Gel) for the postharvest storage of mango. The morphological architecture and mechanical properties of the films were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), and other technologies. The results show that the prepared films had relatively flat surfaces with good mechanical properties. AO enhanced the light-blocking ability of the film, increased the hydrophobicity, and affected the moisture content and water solubility of the film to a certain extent. Furthermore, the antioxidant performance and antifungal (Colletotrichum gloeosporioides) capacity of the films increased with higher AO concentration due to the presence of the active components contained in AO. During mango storage applications, the films showed good freshness retention properties. The above results indicate that SPI-Gel films containing AO have excellent physicochemical and application properties and have great potential in the field of food packaging.

Recent advances of exosomal circRNAs in cancer and their potential clinical applications

Circular RNA (circRNA) is a type of non-coding RNA that forms a covalently closed, uninterrupted loop. The expression of circRNA differs among cell types and tissues, and various circRNAs are aberrantly expressed in a variety of diseases, including cancer. Aberrantly expressed circRNAs contribute to disease progression by acting as microRNA sponges, functional protein sponges, or novel templates for protein translation. Recent studies have shown that circRNAs are enriched in exosomes. Exosomes are spherical bilayer vesicles released by cells into extracellular spaces that mediate intercellular communication by delivering cargoes. These cargoes include metabolites, proteins, lipids, and RNA molecules. Exosome-mediated cell-cell or cell-microenvironment communications influence the progression of carcinogenesis by regulating cell proliferation, angiogenesis, metastasis as well as immune escape. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge about exosomal circRNAs in cancers and discuss their specific functions in tumorigenesis. Additionally, we discuss the potential value of exosomal circRNAs as diagnostic biomarkers and the potential applications of exosomal circRNA-based cancer therapy.

The RNA-binding protein LRPPRC promotes resistance to CDK4/6 inhibition in lung cancer

Kinase inhibitors against Cyclin Dependent Kinase 4 and 6 (CDK4/6i) are promising cancer therapeutic drugs. However, their effects are limited by primary or acquired resistance in virtually all tumor types. Here, we demonstrate that Leucine Rich Pentatricopeptide Repeat Containing (LRPPRC) controls CDK4/6i response in lung cancer by forming a feedback loop with CDK6. LRPPRC binds to CDK6-mRNA, increasing the stability and expression of CDK6. CDK6 and its downstream E2F Transcription Factor 1 (E2F1), bind to the LRPPRC promoter and elevate LRPPRC transcription. The activation of the LRPPRC-CDK6 loop facilitates cell cycle G1/S transition, oxidative phosphorylation, and cancer stem cell generation. Gossypol acetate (GAA), a gynecological medicine that has been repurposed as a degrader of LRPPRC, enhances the CDK4/6i sensitivity in vitro and in vivo. Our study reveals a mechanism responsible for CDK4/6i resistance and provides an enlightening approach to investigating the combinations of CDK4/6 and LRPPRC inhibitors in cancer therapy.

Difficult endotracheal intubation due to a large epiglottic cyst: A case report

RATIONALE

An epiglottic cyst is a type of benign tumor that is formed due to the obstruction of the mucinous duct and the retention of glandular secretion. In such cases, the glottis is not visible as it is covered by the enlarged epiglottic cyst. When conventional anesthesia is administered in such patients, they might have difficulty ventilation since the epiglottic cyst can easily form a flap and move with external pressure changes and can cause the blockage of the glottis due to the loss of consciousness and the relaxation of the throat muscles of the patient. If endotracheal intubation is not initiated and effective ventilation is not established, the patient may suffer from hypoxia and other accidents.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 48-year-old male presented to the otolaryngology department with a foreign body sensation in the throat.

DIAGNOSES

A large epiglottic cyst was diagnosed.

INTERVENTIONS

The patient was planned to undergo epiglottis cystectomy under general anesthesia. After induction of anesthesia, the cyst severely covered the glottis and made endotracheal intubation difficult. The anesthesiologist rapidly adjusted the position of the laryngeal lens; thus, the endotracheal intubation was successful under the visual laryngoscope.

OUTCOMES

The endotracheal intubation was successful under the visual laryngoscope and the operation went well.

LESSONS

Patients with epiglottic cysts are more likely to have difficult airways after induction of anesthesia. Anesthesiologists should take preoperative airway assessment seriously, efficiently handle difficult airway and intubation failure, and make quick and correct choices to ensure patient safety.

CAR T Cell Therapy: Remedies of Current Challenges in Design, Injection, Infiltration and Working

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy, as an innovative immunotherapy, plays a huge role in current cancer therapy. Although CAR T cell therapy has demonstrated therapeutic effects in some subtypes of B cell leukemia or lymphoma, there are many challenges that limit the therapeutic efficacy of CAR T cells in solid tumors. And how to efficiently transport CAR T cells to tumor tissues is a continuing concern for us. In this review, experiments have been extensively studied and compared. We finally compared the influence of different injection methods on therapeutic efficacy. We also carefully explored the difficulties of designing, homing, and working of CAR T cells, and ultimately came up with better solutions for each process to help CAR T cells reach tumor tissue more efficiently and quickly. These results will have significant implications for guiding CAR T cell therapy in cancer treatment.

Construction of Fe3O4/xSiO2/ySiO2 Nanoparticles for Pesticide Removal from Water: Improved Dispersion Stability and Adsorption Capacity

Highly efficient and reusable adsorbents for pesticide removal from wastewater have received increasing attention. In this study, Fe₃O₄ was synthesized using the solvothermal method. Fe₃O₄/xSiO₂ and Fe₃O₄/xSiO₂/ySiO₂ were obtained through layer-by-layer silica (SiO₂) coating on the surface of Fe₃O₄. SiO₂ coating improved the dispersibility of the adsorbent, which can be separated from water rapidly under the action of the external magnetic field. The adsorption capacity of the adsorbent was investigated through removing pyraclostrobin from synthetic wastewater. The adsorbent showed the highest adsorption effect at the adsorbent concentration of 1 mg mL^-1, at a pH of 7, and the adsorbent time of 110 min. The fitting model of the adsorption process conformed to the second-order kinetic model and the Langmuir model. The maximum adsorption capacity of Fe₃O₄/xSiO₂/ySiO₂ nanoparticles was 94.89 mg g^-1, and the removal efficiency was about 96% at adsorption equilibrium. Acetone as the eluent can effectively desorb the adsorbent, and the desorbed adsorbent had high reusability. Particularly, the removal efficiency was still greater than 86% after 9 times of reuse. These results provide a reference for designing reusable nanoparticles to effectively absorb pesticides in wastewater.

Construction and formulation optimization of prothioconazole nanoemulsions for the control of Fusarium graminearum: Enhancing activity and reducing toxicity

In this study, the optimal emulsifier for prothioconazole nanoemulsions was initially screened based on appearance, microscopic observation, mean droplet size and polydispersity index (PDI). In addition, the BoxBehnken design method is adopted, and the optimal formula is screened with an emulsification time, emulsifier content, and solvent content as a single factor. On this basis, the nanoemulsion meets FAO standards for various indicators. The contact angle of droplets on wheat leaves was significantly reduced. This nanoemulsion also showed good inhibitory activity against Fusarium graminearum (EC₅₀ =1.94 mg L^-1), low acute toxicity to zebrafish (LC₅₀ =26.35 mg L^-1) and good biosafety to BEAS-2B cells. The nanoemulsion reduced the adverse effects of pesticide on wheat seed germination and growth. This study can help promote the design and manufacture of stable, efficient and safe agricultural nanoemulsions, and is expected to benefit the sustainable development of green plant protection.

Resistance to anti-HER2 therapy associated with the TSC2 nonsynonymous variant c.4349 C > G (p.Pro1450Arg) is reversed by CDK4/6 inhibitor in HER2-positive breast cancer

HER2-positive breast cancer patients carrying the germline TSC2 nonsynonymous variant c.4349 C > G (p.Pro1450Arg) are resistant to anti-HER2 therapy. Multi-predictor in silico analysis reveals that this variant is deleterious. We explore the potential mechanism of this TSC2 variant and investigate methods for overcoming anti-HER2 resistance. TSC2 c.4349 C > G reverses the inhibitory effect on mTOR and downstream signaling by increasing TSC2 phosphorylation at Thr1462 and confers significant lapatinib resistance in vitro and in vivo. The combination of lapatinib and the CDK4/6 inhibitor palbociclib inhibits cyclin D1/CDK4/Rb alternative pathway and TSC2 phosphorylation, thereby partially attenuating mTOR activity and inducing TSC2-mutant cell blockage at G1/G0. In in vitro and xenograft models, palbociclib+lapatinib shows higher anti-tumor activity than monotherapy and overcomes the resistance of the TSC2 c.4349 C > G-related variant to anti-HER2 therapy. We reveal a new mechanism of resistance to anti-HER2 therapy and provide a strategy to increase the efficiency of anti-HER2 therapy in HER2-positive breast cancer.

A BRAF mutation-associated gene risk model for predicting the prognosis of melanoma

BRAF mutation plays an important role in the pathogenesis and progression of melanoma and is correlated to the prognosis of melanoma patients. However, fewer studies have attempted to develop a BRAF mutation-associated gene risk model for predicting the prognosis of melanoma. The current research explores BRAF mutation-related biological features in melanoma and establishes a prognostic signature. First, we identified three significantly enriched KEGG pathways (glycosphingolipid biosynthesis - ganglio series, ether lipid metabolism, and glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis - keratan sulfate) and corresponding genes in the BRAF mutant group by gene set enrichment analysis. We then developed a prognostic signature based on 7 BRAF-associated genes (PLA2G2D, FUT8, PLA2G4E, PLA2G5, PLA2G1B, B3GNT2, and ST3GAL5) and assessed its prediction accuracy using ROC curve analysis. Finally, the nomogram was established according to the prognostic signature and independent clinical characteristics to predict the survival of melanoma patients. Furthermore, we found higher proportions of naive B cells, plasma cells, CD8 T cells, CD4 memory-activated T cells, and regulatory T cells in the low-risk group. Whereas lower proportions of M0, M1, and M2 macrophages and resting NK cells were observed in the high-risk group. The analysis also showed a significantly higher expression of immune checkpoint molecules (PD-1, PD-L1, CTLA4, BTLA, CD28, CD80, CD86, HAVCR2, ICOS, LAG3, and TIGIT) in the low-risk group. Our results provide novel insights into the effect of BRAF mutation on melanoma growth and indicate a promising direction toward immunotherapy and precision medicine in melanoma patients.

Evaluation of quality and risk to human health of groundwater in a coastal coal-bearing graben basin, North China

Water quality assessments are essential for ensuring human and ecosystem health. This study conducted a water quality assessment on a typical coastal coal-bearing graben basin. Suitability of groundwater quality of the basin for drinking and agricultural irrigation was assessed. Hazards posed to human health by groundwater nitrate were assessed using the objective combined weight water quality index, percent sodium, sodium adsorption ratio, and health risk assessment model. The results indicated groundwater of the basin to be weakly alkaline hard-fresh or hard-brackish, and mean values of pH, total dissolved solids, and total hardness of 7.6, 1464.5 mg/L, and 794.1 mg/L, respectively. The ranks of groundwater cations and anions by abundance were Ca²⁺>Na⁺>Mg²⁺>K⁺ and HCO₃^->NO₃^->Cl^->SO₄^2->F^-, respectively. The main groundwater type was Cl-Ca, followed by HCO₃-Ca. The results of the water quality evaluation indicated that most groundwater in the study area is of a medium quality (38%), followed by poor (33%), and extremely poor (26%). Groundwater quality gradually worsened from inland to the coast. Groundwater of the basin was generally suitable for agricultural irrigation. Groundwater nitrate posed a hazard to over 60% of the exposed population, with infants most at risk, followed by children, adult females, and adult males.

The Role of LincRNA-EPS/Sirt1/Autophagy Pathway in the Neuroprotection Process by Hydrogen against OGD/R-Induced Hippocampal HT22 Cells Injury

Cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (CI/R) injury causes high disability and mortality. Hydrogen (H2) enhances tolerance to an announced ischemic event; however, the therapeutic targets for the effective treatment of CI/R injury remain uncertain. Long non-coding RNA lincRNA-erythroid prosurvival (EPS) (lincRNA-EPS) regulate various biological processes, but their involvement in the effects of H2 and their associated underlying mechanisms still needs clarification. Herein, we examine the function of the lincRNA-EPS/Sirt1/autophagy pathway in the neuroprotection of H2 against CI/R injury. HT22 cells and an oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) model were used to mimic CI/R injury in vitro. H2, 3-MA (an autophagy inhibitor), and RAPA (an autophagy agonist) were then administered, respectively. Autophagy, neuro-proinflammation, and apoptosis were evaluated by Western blot, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunofluorescence staining, real-time PCR, and flow cytometry. The results demonstrated that H2 attenuated HT22 cell injury, which would be confirmed by the improved cell survival rate and decreased levels of lactate dehydrogenase. Furthermore, H2 remarkably improved cell injury after OGD/R insult via decreasing pro-inflammatory factors, as well as suppressing apoptosis. Intriguingly, the protection of H2 against neuronal OGD/R injury was abolished by rapamycin. Importantly, the ability of H2 to promote lincRNA-EPS and Sirt1 expression and inhibit autophagy were abrogated by the siRNA-lincRNA-EPS. Taken together, the findings proved that neuronal cell injury caused by OGD/R is efficiently prevented by H2 via modulating lincRNA-EPS/Sirt1/autophagy-dependent pathway. It was hinted that lincRNA-EPS might be a potential target for the H2 treatment of CI/R injury.

Dysfunctional gene splicing in glucose metabolism may contribute to Alzheimer's disease

ABSTRACT

The glucose metabolism is crucial for sustained brain activity as it provides energy and is a carbon source for multiple biomacromolecules; glucose metabolism decreases dramatically in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and may be a fundamental cause for its development. Recent studies reveal that the alternative splicing events of certain genes effectively regulate several processes in glucose metabolism including insulin receptor, insulin-degrading enzyme, pyruvate kinase M, receptor for advanced glycation endproducts, and others, thereby, influencing glucose uptake, glycolysis, and advanced glycation end-products-mediated signaling pathways. Indeed, the discovery of aberrant alternative splicing that changes the proteomic diversity and protein activity in glucose metabolism has been pivotal in our understanding of AD development. In this review, we summarize the alternative splicing events of the glucose metabolism-related genes in AD pathology and highlight the crucial regulatory roles of splicing factors in the alternative splicing process. We also discuss the emerging therapeutic approaches for targeting splicing factors for AD treatment.

Circular RNAs in chemotherapy resistance of lung cancer and their potential therapeutic application

Lung cancer is one of the high malignancy-related incidence and mortality worldwide, accounting for about 13% of total cancer diagnoses. Currently, the use of anti-cancer agents is still the main therapeutic method for lung cancer. However, cancer cells will gradually show resistance to these drugs with the progress of treatment. And the molecular mechanisms underlying chemotherapy agents resistance remain unclear. circRNAs are newly identified noncoding RNAs molecules with covalently closed circular structures. Previous studies have shown that circRNAs are associated with tumorigenesis and progression of various cancers, including lung cancer. Recently, growing reports have suggested that circRNAs could contribute to drug resistance of lung cancer cell through different mechanisms. Therefore, in this review, we summarized the functions and underlying mechanisms of circRNAs in regulating chemoresistance of lung cancer and discussed their potential applications for diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of lung cancer.

AQP4 mitigates chronic neuropathic pain-induced cognitive impairment in mice

Neuropathic pain is a risk factor for cognitive defects. The ubiquitous expression of AQP4 in astrocytes throughout the central nervous system is altered in the neurodegenerative disease. However, the exact role of AQP4 in cognitive impairment induced by chronic neuropathic pain remains unclear. In this study, we discovered that AQP4 protein and mRNA expression decreased time-dependently in the model of chronic neuropathic pain-induced cognitive disorder. AQP4 overexpression recovered mice from cognitive impairment. Furthermore, the concentration of Aβ1-42 in the serum and hippocampus reduced in mice with AQP4 overexpression adeno-associated virus injection. In conclusion, AQP4 in astrocytes is important in mitigating cognitive impairment caused by chronic neuropathic pain.

Application of essential oils as natural biopesticides; recent advances

There is an urgent need for the development of sustainable and eco-friendly pesticide formulations since common synthetic pesticides result in many adverse effects on human health and the environment. Essential oils (EOs) are a mixture of volatile oils produced as a secondary metabolite in medicinal plants, and show activities against pests, insects, and pathogenic fungi. Their chemical composition is affected by several factors such as plant species or cultivar, geographical origin, environmental conditions, agricultural practices, and extraction method. The growing number of studies related to the herbicidal, insecticidal, acaricidal, nematicidal, and antimicrobial effects of EOs demonstrate their effectiveness and suitability as sustainable and environment-friendly biopesticides. EOs can biodegrade into nontoxic compounds; at the same time, their harmful and detrimental effects on non-target organisms are low. However, few biopesticide formulations based on EOs have been turned into commercial practice upto day. Several challenges including the reduced stability and efficiency of EOs under environmental conditions need to be addressed before EOs are widely applied as commercial biopesticides. This work is an overview of the current research on the application of EOs as biopesticides. Findings of recent studies focusing on the challenges related to the use of EOs as biopesticides are also discussed.

Canagliflozin primes antitumor immunity by triggering PD-L1 degradation in endocytic recycling

Understanding the regulatory mechanisms of PD-L1 expression in tumors provides key clues for improving immune checkpoint blockade efficacy or developing novel oncoimmunotherapy. Here, we showed that the FDA-approved sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitor canagliflozin dramatically suppressed PD-L1 expression and enhanced T cell-mediated cytotoxicity. Mechanistic study revealed that SGLT2 colocalized with PD-L1 at the plasma membrane and recycling endosomes and thereby prevented PD-L1 from proteasome-mediated degradation. Canagliflozin disturbed the physical interaction between SGLT2 and PD-L1 and subsequently allowed the recognition of PD-L1 by Cullin3SPOP E3 ligase, which triggered the ubiquitination and proteasome-mediated degradation of PD-L1. In mouse models and humanized immune-transformation models, either canagliflozin treatment or SGLT2 silencing significantly reduced PD-L1 expression and limited tumor progression - to a level equal to the PD-1 mAb - which was correlated with an increase in the activity of antitumor cytotoxic T cells. Notably, prolonged progression-free survival and overall survival curves were observed in the group of PD-1 mAb-treated patients with non-small cell lung cancer with high expression of SGLT2. Therefore, our study identifies a regulator of cell surface PD-L1, provides a ready-to-use small-molecule drug for PD-L1 degradation, and highlights a potential therapeutic target to overcome immune evasion by tumor cells.

Amelioration of central neurodegeneration by docosahexaenoic acid in trigeminal neuralgia rats through the regulation of central neuroinflammation

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a stubborn head and face neuropathic pain with complex pathogenesis. Patients with TN have a significantly increased risk of central neurodegeneration, which manifests as cognitive impairment and memory loss, but the specific mechanism underlying central nervous degeneration is still unclear. This study aimed to explore central neurodegeneration and its possible mechanism of action in TN rats based on changes in the brain fatty acid content and microglia-related neuroinflammation. Using a TN neuropathic pain model established by us, we found that TN rats have obvious cognitive impairment. Furthermore, changes in the brain fatty acid content were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). It was found that the docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) content in the central nervous system (CNS) of TN rats was significantly decreased compared to that in the CNS of Sham rats. An important component in maintaining brain cognition, DHA also plays a key role in regulating central neuroinflammation. Here, by continuous supplementation of DHA, the CNS DHA content was increased to a certain extent in TN rats. The cognitive impairment of TN rats was improved after restoring the central DHA level; this may be related to the improvement of neuroinflammation through the DHA-mediated regulation of microglial polarization. Overall, this study provides a theoretical basis for explaining the pathogenesis of central neurodegeneration in TN. It also suggests DHA as a target for protecting the CNS of patients with TN from damage.

A simple mesoporous silica Nanoparticle-based aptamers SERS sensor for the detection of acetamiprid

In this study, we developed a novel, rapid, simple, and sensitive nano sensor based on the controlled release of 4-Aminothiophenol (4-ATP) signal molecules from aptamers (Apts) modified aminated mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs-NH₂) for the quantitative detection of acetamiprid (ACE). Firstly, we synthesized the positively charged MSNs-NH₂ by one-pot method, then loaded 4-ATP signal molecules into the pore, and finally electrostatically adsorbed the Apts onto the MSNs-NH₂, which acts as a gate to control the release of signal molecules. When ACE is added to the system, ACE preferentially and specifically binds to Apts, so the gate opens and 4-ATP signal molecules are released from the pore. Meanwhile, the silver-loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticles (Ag@SiO₂) were prepared by one-pot method as surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) substrate to amplify the signal. The intensity of 4-ATP signal molecules at 1433 cm^-1 position was observed to has a linear relationship with the concentration of ACE by SERS detection. Under the optimized detection conditions, a linear correlation was observed in the range of 5-60 ng/mL (R² = 0.99749), and the limit of detection (LOD) was 2.66 ng/mL. The method has high sensitivity, good selectivity and reproducibility, and can be used for actual sample analysis with the recovery rate of 96.24-103.6 %. This study provides a reference for the rapid and convenient detection of ACE in agricultural products.

Fluorescent aptamer-modified mesoporous silica nanoparticles for quantitative acetamiprid detection

Acetamiprid (ACE) is widely used to control aphids, brown planthoppers, and other pests in agricultural production. However, ACE is difficult to degrade in the environment, resulting in excessive residue, which causes acute and chronic toxicity to human beings and non-target organisms. Therefore, the development of a rapid, convenient, and highly sensitive method to quantify ACE is essential. In this study, aminated mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs-NH₂) were synthesized by one-pot method, and 6-carboxyl fluorescein modified aptamers (FAM-Apt) of ACE were adsorbed on the surface of MSNs-NH₂ by electrostatic interaction. Finally, a simple and sensitive fluorescence analysis method for the rapid detection of ACE was established. In the absence of ACE, the negatively charged FAM-Apt was electrostatically bound to the positively charged MSNs-NH₂, followed by centrifugation to precipitate MSNs-NH₂@FAM-Apt, and no fluorescent signal was detected in the supernatant. In the presence of ACE, the specific combination of FAM-Apt with ACE was greater than its electrostatic interaction with MSNs-NH₂, so that FAM-Apt was separated from MSNs-NH₂, and the supernatant had strong fluorescence signal after centrifugation. For ACE detection, the linear concentration range was 50-1100 ng/mL, and the detection limit (LOD) was 30.26 ng/mL. The method exhibited high sensitivity, selectivity and reproducibility, which is suitable for practical sample analysis and provides guidance for rapid detection of pesticide residues.

Combined expression of the BRAFV600E mutation and PD-L1 in early papillary thyroid carcinoma and its relationship with clinicopathological features and recurrence-a retrospective cohort study

Background

Identifying the high recurrence group of patients with early-stage papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is the greatest challenge in the management of this disease. It has been noted that B-type Rafkinase (BRAF) V600E mutation and programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) are associated in PTC and highly expressed in PTC, correlating in PTC as potential prognostic biomarkers. However, whether they can be used to predict the aggressiveness and recurrence of early PTC remains unclear.

Methods

Clinicopathological data of 137 patients with early PTC [tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) stage I-II] who underwent surgery in Zhejiang Cancer Hospital between 2008 and 2010 were retrospectively analyzed. BRAF^V600E mutation and PD-L1 was detected by immunohistochemistry. The median follow-up time was 136 months (interquartile range 5.8). The presence of tumor confirmed by imaging or pathology or lymph node metastasis was considered as tumor recurrence. The association of both alone and in combination with clinicopathological features and recurrence was statistically analyzed respectively. The risk of recurrence was assessed using Cox regression models.

Results

Most of the 137 early PTC were female (78.1%). The mean age was 43.2±12.1 years. The median tumor size was 1.4 cm; 14 patients developed recurrence during follow-up period; 56 patients (40.9%) were detected positive for BRAF^V600E mutation; 76 patients (55.5%) were detected positive for PD-L1. Patients with both BRAF^V600E mutation and PD-L1 expression had larger tumors (P=0.038), were more likely to have extrathyroidal invasion (P=0.045), and had a lower rate of cervical lymph node metastasis (P=0.046). The recurrence rate was 17.5% (7/40) in patients with BRAF^V600E mutation and PD-L1 double expression compared to 8.9% (4/45) in patients with BRAF^V600E mutation and PD-L1 double negative [hazard ratio (HR) =1.267; 95% CI: 0.841-1.909; P=0.257]. Survival curves showed flatter recurrence-free survival (RFS) curves in positive BRAF^V600E mutation only and PD-L1 expression only, whereas decreased sharply in positive expression of both BRAF^V600E mutation and PD-L1; however, the differences were not significant (P>0.05).

Conclusions

The combination of BRAF^V600E mutation and PD-L1 to identify group at higher risk of recurrence in early PTC has insufficient clinical evidence and should be used with caution in the clinical management of PTC.

Effect of dexmedetomidine for prevention of acute kidney injury after cardiac surgery: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a serious complication related to cardiac surgery. Several studies have been conducted to investigate the effect of dexmedetomidine administration on AKI prevention.

OBJECTIVE

To assess if dexmedetomidine is associated with a protective effect of renal function after cardiac surgery. And the aim of conducting this meta-analysis is to summarize the literature and determine the clinical utility of dexmedetomidine administration in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

METHODS

PubMed, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE databases were comprehensively searched for all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published before 1 December, 2021 that investigated the effect of dexmedetomidine on AKI prevention.

RESULTS

Our analysis included 16 studies involving 2148 patients. Compared with the control group, dexmedetomidine administration significantly reduced AKI incidence (OR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.36-0.61; p <  0.00001; I² = 26%) and the length of stay in the intensive care unit (ICU) but did not alter mortality rate, length of stay in the hospital, and mechanical ventilation time. Furthermore, the incidence of delirium among patients treated with dexmedetomidine was significantly decreased.

CONCLUSION

Dexmedetomidine administration has a positive effect on preventing AKI and postoperative delirium after cardiac surgery and significantly reduces the length of stay in the ICU.

Early renal structural changes and potential biomarkers in diabetic nephropathy

Diabetic nephropathy is one of the most serious microvascular complications of diabetes mellitus, with increasing prevalence and mortality. Currently, renal function is assessed clinically using albumin excretion rate and glomerular filtration rate. But before the appearance of micro-albumin, the glomerular structure has been severely damaged. Glomerular filtration rate based on serum creatinine is a certain underestimate of renal status. Early diagnosis of diabetic nephropathy has an important role in improving kidney function and delaying disease progression with drugs. There is an urgent need for biomarkers that can characterize the structural changes associated with the kidney. In this review, we focus on the early glomerular and tubular structural alterations, with a detailed description of the glomerular injury markers SMAD1 and Podocalyxin, and the tubular injury markers NGAL, Netrin-1, and L-FABP in the context of diabetic nephropathy. We have summarized the currently studied protein markers and performed bioprocess analysis. Also, a brief review of proteomic and scRNA-seq method in the search of diabetic nephropathy.

hnRNP A1 in RNA metabolism regulation and as a potential therapeutic target

Abnormal RNA metabolism, regulated by various RNA binding proteins, can have functional consequences for multiple diseases. Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A1 (hnRNP A1) is an important RNA binding protein, that regulates various RNA metabolic processes, including transcription, alternative splicing of pre-mRNA, translation, miRNA processing and mRNA stability. As a potent splicing factor, hnRNP A1 can regulate multiple splicing events, including itself, collaborating with other cooperative or antagonistical splicing factors by binding to splicing sites and regulatory elements in exons or introns. hnRNP A1 can modulate gene transcription by directly interacting with promoters or indirectly impacting Pol II activities. Moreover, by interacting with the internal ribosome entry site (IRES) or 3′-UTR of mRNAs, hnRNP A1 can affect mRNA translation. hnRNP A1 can alter the stability of mRNAs by binding to specific locations of 3′-UTR, miRNAs biogenesis and Nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) pathway. In this review, we conclude the selective sites where hnRNP A1 binds to RNA and DNA, and the co-regulatory factors that interact with hnRNP A1. Given the dysregulation of hnRNP A1 in diverse diseases, especially in cancers and neurodegeneration diseases, targeting hnRNP A1 for therapeutic treatment is extremely promising. Therefore, this review also provides the small-molecule drugs, biomedicines and novel strategies targeting hnRNP A1 for therapeutic purposes.

Plasma microRNA-221-3p as a biomarker for POCD after non-cardiac surgery

Our previous study showed that the plasma microRNA-221-3p level could serve as a biomarker for major depression or mood. This study aimed to further investigate the role of plasma microRNA-221-3p level in postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD). Patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery were randomly assigned according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. POCD was diagnosed by the Z score method. The relative level of plasma microRNA-221-3p was decided by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Multiple logistic regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic(ROC) curves were used for the analysis of plasma microRNA-221-3p prediction performance for POCD. At 7 days post-surgery, the rate of POCD was 34.04%. Patients in the POCD group had a higher preoperative depression score, older age, and longer operation duration than that in the NPOCD group. The relative level of plasma microRNA-221-3p in the POCD group was 1.78 and 2.73 times higher than that in the NPOCD group at 1 day before and 7 days after the surgery, respectively. The relative content of plasma microRNA-221-3p at 7 days after operation was an independent risk factor for POCD. The ROC curves showed that the area under the curve was 0.938 for plasma microRNA-221-3p at postoperative 7 days, and the threshold for POCD detection was 12.33 with a sensitivity and specificity of 81.3% and 96.3%, respectively. Our results indicate that the plasma postoperative microRNA-221-3p levels could be an effective predictor for POCD after non-cardiac surgery.

Non-Coding RNA Related to MAPK Signaling Pathway in Liver Cancer

The advancement in high-throughput sequencing analysis and the evaluation of chromatin state maps have revealed that eukaryotic cells produce many non-coding transcripts/RNAs. Further, a strong association was observed between some non-coding RNAs and cancer development. The mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) belong to the serine–threonine kinase family and are the primary signaling pathways involved in cell proliferation from the cell surface to the nucleus. They play an important role in various human diseases. A few non-coding RNAs associated with the MAPK signaling pathway play a significant role in the development of several malignancies, including liver cancer. In this review, we summarize the molecular mechanisms and interactions of microRNA, lncRNA, and other non-coding RNAs in the development of liver cancer that are associated with the MAPK signaling pathway. Further, we briefly discuss the therapeutic strategies for liver cancer related to ncRNA and the MAPK signaling pathway.

Preparation and characterization of emamectin benzoate nanocapsules based on the dual role of polydopamine

BACKGROUND

Developing pesticide-controlled release formulations with foliage adhesion has become the focus of current research in the field of crop protection. In this study, an excellent adhesive nanocapsule loaded with emamectin benzoate (Eb@PDA) was prepared via emulsion interfacial polymerization based on the self-polymerization ability and adhesion properties of polydopamine (PDA).

RESULTS

The physicochemical properties of the Eb@PDA were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, particle size statistics, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. The Eb@PDA presented a regular spherical shape, with an average particle size of 163.8 nm. Compared with conventional formulations, it had higher pesticide-loading content (34%) and excellent adhesion onto corn leaf. In addition, Eb@PDA showed sustained-release characteristics, facilitating the release of Eb at low pH and high temperature. Eb@PDA could effectively protect Eb against photodegradation and had a longer effective period for controlling Spodoptera frugiperda and Spodoptera exigua. Furthermore, acute toxicity tests showed that the 50% lethal concentration (LC₅₀ ) was 80.91 and 57.91 mg kg^-1 at 7 and 14 days, respectively, indicating a lower toxicity of the Eb@PDA to earthworms. The cells (L02) treated with Eb@PDA showed a higher cell viability but a lower apoptosis rate (only 5.75%), demonstrating the lower cytotoxicity of the Eb@PDA.

CONCLUSION

The self-prepared Eb@PDA could be used as a formulation with the advantages of slow release, UV shielding, strong leaf adhesion, superior insecticidal properties, sustained effectiveness and biosafety. It will also facilitate the development of an efficient and safe pesticide delivery system. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.