Deletion of TECRL promotes skeletal muscle repair by up-regulating EGR2

Myogenic regeneration relies on the proliferation and differentiation of satellite cells. TECRL (trans-2,3-enoyl-CoA reductase like) is an endoplasmic reticulum protein only expressed in cardiac and skeletal muscle. However, its role in myogenesis remains unknown. We show that TECRL expression is increased in response to injury. Satellite cell-specific deletion of TECRL enhances muscle repair by increasing the expression of EGR2 through the activation of the ERK1/2 signaling pathway, which in turn promotes the expression of PAX7. We further show that TECRL deletion led to the upregulation of the histone acetyltransferase general control nonderepressible 5, which enhances the transcription of EGR2 through acetylation. Importantly, we showed that AAV9-mediated TECRL silencing improved muscle repair in mice. These findings shed light on myogenic regeneration and muscle repair.

The relationship between family resilience, post-traumatic growth, and caregiver burden among family caregivers of stroke survivors: a cross-sectional study

The study aimed to explore the relationship between family resilience, post-traumatic growth(PTG), and caregiver burden among family caregivers of stroke survivors. Researchers conducted a cross-sectional study to recruit 253 family caregivers of stroke survivors from a public hospital in Shandong Province, China. Caregivers completed sociodemographic information, the Shortened Chinese Version of the Family Resilience Assessment Scale, the Post-traumatic Growth Inventory, and the Zarit Caregiver Burden Interview. We used Amos 24.0 to construct structural equation models and examine the mediating effects of stroke survivors' post-traumatic growth. Family resilience was positively associated with post-traumatic growth, and both family resilience and post-traumatic growth were negatively associated with caregiver burden. Post-traumatic growth partially mediated the relationship between family resilience and caregiver burden, and the mediating effect accounted for 21.27% of the total effect. Targeted interventions should address family resilience and post-traumatic growth as protective factors of caregiver burden.

Human papillomavirus infection affects treatment outcomes and the immune microenvironment in patients with advanced penile squamous cell carcinoma receiving programmed cell death protein 1 inhibitor-based combination therapy

BACKGROUND

Penile squamous cell carcinoma (PSCC) is a human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated malignancy. Immunotherapy is emerging as a potential treatment for advanced PSCC. In this study, the authors analyzed the association of HPV status with outcomes and the immune microenvironment in patients with advanced PSCC undergoing programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1) inhibitor-based combination therapy (PCT).

METHODS

HPV status was assessed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction in 87 patients with advanced PSCC treated with PCT. Objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) in the HPV+ and HPV- groups were compared. Additionally, bulk RNA sequencing was performed to investigate the potential impact of HPV on the immune microenvironment in advanced PSCC.

RESULTS

Among patients receiving first-line PCT, ORR (91.7% vs. 64.6%, p = .014) and DCR (100.0% vs. 79.2%, p = .025) in the HPV+ group were higher compared to the HPV- group. Kaplan-Meier curves demonstrated that the HPV+ group exhibited superior PFS (p = .005) and OS (p = .004) for patients in the first-line setting. However, these advantages of HPV infection were not observed in multi-line PCT (p > .050). HPV status remained an independent prognostic factor for predicting better ORR (p = .024), PFS (p = .002), and OS (p = .020) in the multivariate analyses. Landmark analyses showed that the HPV-induced superiority of PFS occurred at an early stage (within 3 months) and OS occurred at a relatively late stage (within 9 months). Bioinformatic analyses identified potential immune-activated genes (GLDC, CYP4F12, etc.) and pathways (RAGE, PI3K/AKT, etc.), antitumor immune cell subtypes, and lower tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion scores in HPV+ tissues.

CONCLUSIONS

HPV infection may confer treatment efficacy and survival benefits in patients with advanced PSCC receiving first-line PCT because of the possible stimulation of the antitumor immune microenvironment.

PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection may induce better objective response rate, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) for advanced penile squamous cell carcinoma (PSCC) patients receiving first-line programmed cell death protein 1 inhibitor-based combination therapy (PCT) instead of multi-line PCT. HPV infection-induced PFS advantage occurs at an early stage (within 3 months) whereas OS superiority occurs at a relatively late stage (within 9 months). Antitumor immune microenvironment could be stimulated by HPV infection in advanced PSCC tissues.

Potential value of CT-based comprehensive nomogram in predicting occult lymph node metastasis of esophageal squamous cell paralaryngeal nerves: a two-center study

PURPOSE

The aim of this study is to construct a combined model that integrates radiomics, clinical risk factors and machine learning algorithms to predict para-laryngeal lymph node metastasis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

METHODS

A retrospective study included 361 patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma from 2 centers. Radiomics features were extracted from the computed tomography scans. Logistic regression, k nearest neighbor, multilayer perceptron, light Gradient Boosting Machine, support vector machine, random forest algorithms were used to construct radiomics models. The receiver operating characteristic curve and The Hosmer-Lemeshow test were employed to select the better-performing model. Clinical risk factors were identified through univariate logistic regression analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis and utilized to develop a clinical model. A combined model was then created by merging radiomics and clinical risk factors. The performance of the models was evaluated using ROC curve analysis, and the clinical value of the models was assessed using decision curve analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 1024 radiomics features were extracted. Among the radiomics models, the KNN model demonstrated the optimal diagnostic capabilities and accuracy, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.84 in the training cohort and 0.62 in the internal test cohort. Furthermore, the combined model exhibited an AUC of 0.97 in the training cohort and 0.86 in the internal test cohort.

CONCLUSION

A clinical-radiomics integrated nomogram can predict occult para-laryngeal lymph node metastasis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and provide guidance for personalized treatment.

Experimental Limits on Solar Reflected Dark Matter with a New Approach on Accelerated-Dark-Matter-Electron Analysis in Semiconductors

Recently a dark matter-electron (DM-electron) paradigm has drawn much attention. Models beyond the standard halo model describing DM accelerated by high energy celestial bodies are under intense examination as well. In this Letter, a velocity components analysis (VCA) method dedicated to swift analysis of accelerated DM-electron interactions via semiconductor detectors is proposed and the first HPGe detector-based accelerated DM-electron analysis is realized. Utilizing the method, the first germanium based constraint on sub-GeV solar reflected DM-electron interaction is presented with the 205.4  kg·day dataset from the CDEX-10 experiment. In the heavy mediator scenario, our result excels in the mass range of 5-15  keV/c^{2}, achieving a 3 orders of magnitude improvement comparing with previous semiconductor experiments. In the light mediator scenario, the strongest laboratory constraint for DM lighter than 0.1  MeV/c^{2} is presented. The result proves the feasibility and demonstrates the vast potential of the VCA technique in future accelerated DM-electron analyses with semiconductor detectors.

Eight-month intensive meditation-based intervention improves refractory hallucinations and delusions and quality of life in male inpatients with schizophrenia: a randomized controlled trial

AIM

This study investigated the impact of an 8-month daily-guided intensive meditation-based intervention (iMI) on persistent hallucinations/delusions and health-related quality of life (QoL) in male inpatients with schizophrenia with treatment-refractory hallucinations and delusions (TRHDs).

METHODS

A randomized controlled trial assigned 64 male inpatients with schizophrenia and TRHD equally to an 8-month iMI plus general rehabilitation program (GRP) or GRP alone. Assessments were conducted at baseline and the third and eighth months using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), 36-Item Short Form-36 (SF-36), and Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ). Primary outcomes measured PANSS reduction rates for total score, positive symptoms, and hallucinations/delusions items. Secondary outcomes assessed PANSS, SF-36, and FFMQ scores for psychotic symptoms, health-related QoL, and mindfulness skills, respectively.

RESULTS

In the primary outcome, iMI significantly improved the reduction rates of PANSS total score, positive symptoms, and hallucination/delusion items compared with GRP at both the third and eighth months. Treatment response rates (≥25% reduction) for these measures significantly increased in the iMI group at the eighth month. Concerning secondary outcomes, iMI significantly reduced PANSS total score and hallucination/delusion items, while increasing scores in physical activity and mindfulness skills at both the third and eighth months compared with GRP. These effects were more pronounced with an 8-month intervention compared with a 3-month intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

An iMI benefits patients with TRHDs by reducing persistent hallucinations/delusions and enhancing health-related QoL. Longer iMI duration yields superior treatment outcomes.

A novel method to quantify chitosan in aqueous solutions by ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry

In this study, a novel and accurate quantitative analysis method for the direct determination of chitosan (CS) in aqueous solutions using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) is presented. By detecting the mass spectrum response intensity of a series of CS characteristic ion pairs, the sample concentration (abscissa) was linearly fitted with the total ion current (TIC) response intensity of its characteristic ion pairs (ordinate). A reliable standard curve was derived for quantifying CS in the range of 125-4000 ng/mL. Under the detection conditions, this CS quantification method yielded acceptable specificity (no interference peak), linearity (with correlation coefficient (r2) values >0.999), precision (acceptable limit RSDr < 3 %, RSDR < 6 %), accuracy (RE within the acceptable limits of ±5 %), and stability (acceptable limit RE within ±5 %, RSDr < 3 %). Moreover, the applicability of measurement was verified when a series of substrates did not interact with CS in the solution. Results have verified the applicability of this method for determining CS content in different composites. This study provides a method for determining CS content with significant practical value and economic benefit.

Role of ArcA in the regulation of antibiotic sensitivity in avian pathogenic Escherichia coli

Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) is one of the common extraintestinal infectious disease pathogens in chickens, geese, and other birds, inducing serious impediments to the development of the poultry industry. Hence, investigating how bacteria regulate themselves amidst different challenging conditions is immense essential in prevention and treatment for bacterial pathogen infections. The ArcA regulatory factor has been reported to regulate oxygen availability in strains, but its role in regulation of antibiotics resistance in APEC is unclear. This study delved into understanding how ArcA regulates antibiotic resistance in APEC. An E. coli APEC40 arcA knockout strain was constructed, and the regulatory mechanism of arcA on APEC antibiotic susceptibility was identified by drug sensitivity test, colony counting assay, real-time quantitative PCR, β-galactosidase assays and electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA). The results showed that ArcA directly binds to the promoter region of the outer membrane protein OmpC/OmpW and regulates bacterial susceptibility to kanamycin and penicillin G. At the same time, the double knockout of ompW and ompW/arcA resulted in an increase in resistance to kanamycin compared to the deletion of the arcA gene. This outcome provided experimental proof suggesting that the outer membrane protein OmpW could serve as a crucial pathway for the ingress of kanamycin into cells. These results confirmed the important regulatory role of ArcA transcription factors under APEC antibiotic stress.

Extracellular vesicle biomarkers for complement dysfunction in schizophrenia

Schizophrenia, a complex neuropsychiatric disorder, frequently experiences a high rate of misdiagnosis due to subjective symptom assessment. Consequently, there is an urgent need for innovative and objective diagnostic tools. In this study, we used cutting-edge extracellular vesicles' (EVs) proteome profiling and XGBoost-based machine learning to develop new markers and personalized discrimination scores for schizophrenia diagnosis and prediction of treatment response. We analysed plasma and plasma-derived EVs from 343 participants, including 100 individuals with chronic schizophrenia, 34 first-episode and drug-naïve patients, 35 individuals with bipolar disorder, 25 individuals with major depressive disorder and 149 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Our innovative approach uncovered EVs-based complement changes in patients, specific to their disease-type and status. The EV-based biomarkers outperformed their plasma counterparts, accurately distinguishing schizophrenia individuals from healthy controls with an area under curve (AUC) of 0.895, 83.5% accuracy, 85.3% sensitivity and 82.0% specificity. Moreover, they effectively differentiated schizophrenia from bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder, with AUCs of 0.966 and 0.893, respectively. The personalized discrimination scores provided a personalized diagnostic index for schizophrenia and exhibited a significant association with patients' antipsychotic treatment response in the follow-up cohort. Overall, our study represents a significant advancement in the field of neuropsychiatric disorders, demonstrating the potential of EV-based biomarkers in guiding personalized diagnosis and treatment of schizophrenia.

Characterization of A π-π stacking cocrystal of 4-nitrophthalonitrile directed toward application in photocatalysis

Photoexcitation of the electron-donor-acceptor complexes have been an effective approach to achieve radicals by triggering electron transfer. However, the catalytic version of electron-donor-acceptor complex photoactivation is quite underdeveloped comparing to the well-established utilization of electronically biased partners. In this work, we utilize 4-nitrophthalonitrile as an electron acceptor to facilitate the efficient π-stacking with electron-rich aromatics to form electron-donor-acceptor complex. The characterization and energy profiles on the cocrystal of 4-nitrophthalonitrile and 1,3,5-trimethoxybenzene disclose that the electron transfer is highly favorable under the light irradiation. This electron acceptor catalyst can be efficiently applied in the benzylic C-H bond photoactivation by developing the Giese reaction of alkylanisoles and the oxidation of the benzyl alcohols. A broad scope of electron-rich aromatics can be tolerated and a mechanism is also proposed. Moreover, the corresponding π-anion interaction of 4-nitrophthalonitrile with potassium formate can further facilitate the hydrocarboxylation of alkenes efficiently.

Remodeling the polymer-binding cavity to improve the efficacy of PBAT-degrading enzyme

Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) is among the most widely applied synthetic polyesters that are utilized in the packaging and agricultural industries, but the accumulation of PBAT wastes has posed a great burden to ecosystems. Using renewable enzymes to decompose PBAT is an eco-friendly solution to tackle this problem. Recently, we demonstrated that cutinase is the most effective PBAT-degrading enzyme and that an engineered cutinase termed TfCut-DM could completely decompose PBAT film to terephthalate (TPA). Here, we report crystal structures of a variant of leaf compost cutinase in complex with soluble fragments of PBAT, including BTa and TaBTa. In the TaBTa complex, one TPA moiety was located at a polymer-binding site distal to the catalytic center that has never been experimentally validated. Intriguingly, the composition of the distal TPA-binding site shows higher diversity relative to the one proximal to the catalytic center in various cutinases. We thus modified the distal TPA-binding site of TfCut-DM and obtained variants that exhibit higher activity. Notably, the time needed to completely degrade the PBAT film to TPA was shortened to within 24 h by TfCut-DM Q132Y (5813 mol per mol protein). Taken together, the structural information regarding the substrate-binding behavior of PBAT-degrading enzymes could be useful guidance for direct enzyme engineering.

Integration analysis of ATAC-seq and RNA-seq provides insight into fatty acid biosynthesis in Schizochytrium limacinum under nitrogen limitation stress

BACKGROUND

Schizochytrium limacinum holds significant value utilized in the industrial-scale synthesis of natural DHA. Nitrogen-limited treatment can effectively increase the content of fatty acids and DHA, but there is currently no research on chromatin accessibility during the process of transcript regulation. The objective of this research was to delve into the workings of fatty acid production in S. limacinum by examining the accessibility of promoters and profiling gene expressions.

RESULTS

Results showed that differentially accessible chromatin regions (DARs)-associated genes were enriched in fatty acid metabolism, signal transduction mechanisms, and energy production. By identifying and annotating DARs-associated motifs, the study obtained 54 target transcription factor classes, including BPC, RAMOSA1, SPI1, MYC, and MYB families. Transcriptomics results revealed that several differentially expressed genes (DEGs), including SlFAD2, SlALDH, SlCAS1, SlNSDHL, and SlDGKI, are directly related to the biosynthesis of fatty acids, meanwhile, SlRPS6KA, SlCAMK1, SlMYB3R1, and SlMYB3R5 serve as transcription factors that could potentially influence the regulation of fatty acid production. In the integration analysis of DARs and ATAC-seq, 13 genes were identified, which were shared by both DEGs and DARs-associated genes, including SlCAKM, SlRP2, SlSHOC2, SlTN, SlSGK2, SlHMP, SlOGT, SlclpB, and SlDNAAF3.

CONCLUSIONS

SlCAKM may act as a negative regulator of fatty acid and DHA synthesis, while SlSGK2 may act as a positive regulator, which requires further study in the future. These insights enhance our comprehension of the processes underlying fatty acid and DHA production in S. limacinum. They also supply a foundational theoretical framework and practical assistance for the development of strains rich in fatty acids and DHA.

[Single-cell RNA sequencing combined experimental verifies the core genes of dendritic cells in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease]

Objective Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq) and experimental verifies core genes of dendritic cells in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Methods scRNA-seq data GSE173896 and chip data GSE38974 were extracted from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. GSE173896 was used to perform quality control, batch correction, dimensionality reduction clustering, cell type annotation and dendritic cell differentially expressed genes (DC-DEGs) identification. DEGs from the analysis of GSE38974 were intersected with DC-DEGs to obtain the common DC-DEGs. The diagnostic efficacy of the common DC-DEGs for COPD and their enrichment analysis were conducted. The correlation of the common DC-DEGs with activated dendritic cell (DCs), plasmacytoid dendritic cell (pDCs) and type 17 T helper(Th17) cells were analyzed. The mRNA expression level of the common DC-DEGs in the lung tissue of emphysema mice was verified. Results From GSE173896, 18 DC-DEGs were obtained between groups and from GSE38974, 646 DEGs were obtained. The intersection of the two resulted in 3 common DC-DEGs, including interleukin 1 receptor antagonist 1 (IL1RN), S100 calcicum-binding protein A8 (S100A8) and S100A9. Their respective area under curve (AUC) values were 0.841, 0.804 and 0.966. The GO and KEGG enrichment analysis mainly concentrated on chronic inflammatory response, collagen-containing extracellular matrix, receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) binding, Toll-like receptor (TLR) binding and interleukin 17 (IL-17) signaling pathway. IL1RN, S100A8 and S100A9 were positively correlated with activated DCs, pDCs and Th17 cells. The results showed that the mRNA relative expression levels of IL1RN, S100A8 and S100A9 were up-regulated in the lung tissue of emphysema mice. Conclusion IL1RN, S100A8 and S100A9 may be the core genes of DCs in the pathogenesis of COPD, which potentially provide targets and a theoretical basis for subsequent COPD immunotherapy.

Characterization of caspase gene family in Sebastes schlegelii and their expression profiles under Aeromonas salmonicida and Vibrio anguillarum infection

The caspase, functioning as a proteinase, plays a crucial role in eukaryotic cell apoptosis, regulation of apoptosis, cellular growth, differentiation, and immunity. The identification of caspase gene family in Sebastes schlegelii is of great help to understand its antimicrobial research. In S. schlegelii, we totally identified nine caspase genes, including four apoptosis initiator caspases (caspase 2, caspase 8, caspase 9 and caspase 10), four apoptosis executioners (caspase 3a, caspase 3b, caspase 6, and caspase 7) and one inflammatory executioner (caspase 1). The duplication of caspase 3 genes on chr3 and chr8 may have been facilitated by whole genome duplication (WGD) events or other complex evolutionary processes. In general, the number of caspase genes relatively conserved in high vertebrates, while exhibiting variation in teleosts. Furthermore, syntenic analysis and phylogenetic relationships analysis supported the correct classification of these caspase gene family in S. schlegelii, especially for genes with duplicated copies. Additionally, the expression patterns of these caspase genes in different tissues of S. schlegelii under healthy conditions were assessed. The results revealed that the expression levels of most caspase genes were significantly elevated in the intestine, spleen, and liver. To further investigate the potential immune functions of these caspase genes in S. schlegelii, we challenged individuals with A. salmonicida and V. anguillarum, respectively. After infection with A. salmonicida, the expression levels of caspase 1 in the liver and spleen of S. schlegelii remained consistently elevated throughout the infection time points. The expression levels of most caspase family members in the intestine exhibited significant divergence following V. anguillarum infection. This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the caspase gene families in S. schlegelii, thereby establishing a solid foundation for further investigations into the functional roles of these caspase genes.

[Serum glycocalyx markers in patients after cardiac arrest: association with outcomes]

Objective: To assess the levels of serum glycocalyx markers in the first 24 hours after cardiac arrest (CA) and investigate their relationship with 30-day outcomes. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted on prospectively collected data from CA patients, who were admitted to the intensive care units of the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University and obtained return of spontaneous circulation for more than 24 hours between September 2021 and October 2022. Serum samples obtained at the 24-hour after CA were utilized to measure the levels of glycocalyx markers, including heparan sulfate (HS), hyaluronic acid (HA), and syndecan-1 (Sdc-1). Patients were allocated into good function (CPC1-2) and poor function (CPC3-5) groups on the basis of cerebral performance category (CPC) at 30 days post-CA. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the association between serum glycocalyx markers and neurological outcomes. Patients were regrouped in light of 30-d mortality and Cox regression analysis was used to determine the association between serum glycocalyx markers and 30-d mortality. Results: A total of 71 patients were included in the study, including 31 (43.7%) females and 40 (56.3%) males, with an average age of (59.0±17.0) years. The poor function group (n=49) demonstrated significantly elevated levels of HS and HA when compared to the good function group (n=22) [HS: 2 461.0(1 623.0, 5 492.0) μg/L vs 1 492.0 (914.0, 2 550.0) μg/L, P=0.008; HA: 124.0(97.0, 365.0)μg/L vs 337.0(135.0, 1 421.0) μg/L, P=0.033]. Adjusted logistic regression analysis revealed that HS was independently associated with poor neurological outcome [odds ratio (OR)=0.389, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.182-0.828, P=0.014]. In the 30-day mortality analysis, the death group (n=32) exhibited significantly higher levels of HS and HA when compared to the survival group (n=39) [HS: 1 880.0(1 011.0, 3 554.0) μg/L vs 2 500.0(1 726.0, 6 276.0) μg/L, P=0.027; HA: 162.0(99.0, 537.0) μg/L vs 813.0(148.0, 1 531.0) μg/L, P=0.025]. Adjusted Cox regression analysis indicated that elevated levels of HS and HA were independent risk factors (HS: HR=1.697, 95%CI: 1.126-2.557, P=0.011; HA: HR=1.336, 95%CI: 1.047-1.705, P=0.020) for 30-day mortality. Conclusions: High level of serum HS in 24 hours after CA may serve as a potential predictive marker for both neurological function and 30-day mortality. However, high level of serum HA appears to primarily predict 30-day mortality. Sdc-1 does not seem to contribute to outcome prediction.

Dual function of H2O on interfacial intermediate conversion and surface poisoning regulation in simultaneous photodegradation of NO and toluene

Co-existing air pollutants, especially NOx and VOCs, will generate secondary photochemical pollution under light irradiation. However, simultaneous elimination of multi-pollutants has long been a challenge. Photocatalysis could turn the reaction pathway between pollutants to convert them into harmless products, which is a promising technology for multi-pollutant control. Here we achieved synergistic photocatalytic degradation of NO and C7H8 on InOOH photocatalyst, and the performance can be adjusted by H2O through affecting the interaction between surface species and catalyst. In situ DRIFTS and GC-MS revealed that the improved efficiency originated from the fast conversion of C-N coupling intermediates led by additional H2O. Surface characterizations and DFT simulation determined that accumulated nitrates will compete with the adsorption of NO and C7H8, resulting in a decline in efficiency in the later stage. Although improved efficiency would bring more nitrates, as H2O has comparable adsorption to nitrate at the same site, high humidity can mitigate the deactivation. The photocatalyst can be also simply regenerated by water washing. This work reveals the complex interaction in the multi-pollutant system and provides guidelines for precisely regulating the synergistic removal of NOx and VOCs.

The changes of intrinsic connectivity contrast in young smokers

Previous studies demonstrated that reward circuit plays an important role in smoking. The differences of functional and structural connectivity were found among several brain regions such as thalamus and frontal lobe. However, few studies focused on functional connectivity (FC) in whole-brain voxel level of young smokers. In this study, intrinsic connectivity contrast (ICC) was used to perform voxel-based whole-brain analyses in 55 young smokers and 55 matched non-smokers to identify brain regions with significant group differences. ICC results showed that the connectivity of young smokers in medial frontal cortex (MedFC), supramarginal gyrus anterior division left (L_aSMG), central opercular cortex left (L_CO) and middle frontal gyrus left (L_MidFG) showed a significantly lower trend compared with the non-smokers. The seed-based FC analysis about MedFC indicated that young smokers showed reduced connectivity between the MedFC and left hippocampus, left amygdala compared to non-smokers. Correlation analysis showed that the ICC of MedFC in young smokers was significantly negatively correlated with Fagerstrom test for nicotine dependence (FTND) and Questionnaire on Smoking Urges (QSU). The FC between the MedFC and left hippocampus, left amygdala was significantly negatively correlated with Pack_years. The mediation analysis indicated that ICC of MedFC completely mediated FTND and QSU of young smokers. The results suggest that nicotine accumulation may affect the communication of the frontal lobe with the whole brain to some extent, leading to changes in smoking cravings. The above research also provides in-depth insights into the mechanism of adolescent smoking addiction and related intervention treatment.

[Progress of researches on developmental processes and reproduction mode of Pneumocystis]

Pneumocystis, an important opportunistic fungal pathogen that parasitizes in multiple mammalian lungs, may cause life-threatening Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) and even death among immunocompromised individuals. With the rapid development of high-throughput sequencing and multi-omics technologies, systematic comparative analyses of genome, transcriptome, and whole-genome sequencing results demonstrate that Pneumocystis is a type of obligate biotrophic fungi, and requires obtaining nutrition from hosts. In addition, sexual reproduction is an essential process for Pneumocystis survival, production and transmission, and asexual reproduction facilitates Pneumocystis survival, which provides new insights into understanding of the whole developmental process of Pneumocystis in the host lung and inter-host transmission of Pneumocystis. This review summarizes the advances in the reproduction mode of Pneumocystis and underlying mechanisms, which provides insights into prevention and treatment of PCP, notably for the prophylaxis against nosocomial transmission of PCP.

Association Between Metabolic Risk Factors and Cognitive Impairment in Schizophrenia Based on Sex

OBJECTIVE

Sex differences have been observed in many aspects of schizophrenia, including cognitive deficits. Despite extensive research into the relationship between metabolic factors and cognitive deficits in schizophrenia, few studies have explored the potential sex difference in their association.

METHODS

We recruited 358 schizophrenia patients and 231 healthy controls. The participants underwent measurements of body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, blood pressure, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and fasting blood glucose. Metabolic risk factors included abdominal obesity, hypertension, hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia. A collection of these metabolic risk factors has been defined as metabolic syndrome. These diagnoses were based on the criteria of the National Cholesterol Education Program's Adult Treatment Panel III. Cognitive performance was measured using the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS). A descriptive analysis, difference analysis, and linear regression model were used to identify the metabolic risk factors for cognitive function in schizophrenia.

RESULTS

Our findings revealed sex differences in the rate of abdominal obesity and hypertension in schizophrenic patients. Additionally, we observed sex differences in the association between metabolic risk factors and cognitive impairment in schizophrenia. Specifically, hyperglycemia was associated with the immediate memory index score of RBANS in male patients, while dyslipidemia was associated with language, attention, delayed memory index scores, and RBANS total score in female patients.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that sex should be considered when evaluating the impact of metabolic disorders on the cognitive function of schizophrenic patients. Moreover, our study identifies hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia as potential targets for precise treatment by sex stratification, which could benefit the improvement of cognitive impairment in schizophrenic patients.

Prognostic Value of Inflammation Biomarkers in Penile Squamous Cell Carcinoma Patients Without Distant Metastasis

BACKGROUND

To investigate the value of the presurgical inflammatory biomarkers including C-reactive protein (CRP), albumin (ALB), C-reactive protein to albumin ratio (CAR), Glasgow prognostic score (GPS), the modified GPS (mGPS), and the high-sensitivity modified GPS (Hs-mGPS) in penile squamous cell carcinoma (PSCC) without distant metastasis and develop a tool to predict the overall survival (OS) of PSCC patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively enrolled 271 PSCC patients without distant metastasis from 2006 to 2021. Patients were divided into 2 cohorts by a 7:3 ratio-a training cohort (n = 191) and a validation cohort (n = 80). We performed cox regression analyses on the training cohort and constructed a nomogram to predict OS over 1, 3, and 5 years. Data from the validation cohort was used to validate the nomogram's predictive power.

RESULTS

According to Kaplan-Meier analysis, elevated CRP (P < .001), hypoalbuminemia (P = .008), higher CAR (P < .001), higher GPS score (P < .001), higher mGPS score (P < .001), and higher Hs-mGPS score (P = .015) were associated with a decreased overall survival. GPS score, along with age, pathology N stage, and grade, was found to be an independent risk factor for poor prognosis in the multivariate analysis. We constructed a nomogram based on the prespecified variables predicting 1-, 3- and 5-year OS. The C-indexes of the nomogram in the training and validation cohorts were 0.871 and 0.869, respectively. The decision curve analysis showed that the nomogram had a larger net benefit. The Kaplan-Meier curves showed significant differences between the risk groups categorized according to the nomogram (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Inflammation biomarkers of systemic inflammation and nutritional status play an important role in individual OS predictions for PSCC patients without distant monitoring. The establishment of the nomogram provided a tool to predict the survival of 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS in PSCC patients without distant metastasis.

Early identification of lung cancer patients with venous thromboembolism: development and validation of a risk prediction model

INTRODUCTION

Venous thromboembolism(VTE) is a leading cause of death in patients with lung cancer. Furthermore, hospitalization of patients with advanced lung cancer for VTE treatment represents a major economic burden on the national public health resources. Therefore, we performed this prospective study to identify clinical biomarkers for the early identification of VTE in lung cancer patients.

METHODS

This prospective study enrolled 158 patients with confirmed lung cancer, including 27 who were diagnosed with VTE within six months of the follow-up after lung cancer diagnosis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the diagnostic performancese of all the relevant clinical features and laboratory indicators in identifying lung cancer patients with a higher risk of VTE. A novel risk prediction model was constructed consisting of five clinical variables with the best diagnostic performances and was validated using the receiver operation characteristic(ROC) curves. The diagnostic performances of the new risk prediction model was also compared with the Khorana risk score (KRS) and the Padua risk score (PRS).

RESULTS

The VTE group of lung cancer patients (n = 27) showed significantly higher serum levels of fibrin degradation products (FDP), D-dimer, thrombomodulin (TM), thrombin-antithrombin-complex (TAT), α2-plasmin inhibitor-plasmin Complex (PIC), and tissue plasminogen activator-plasminogen activator inhibitor complex (t-PAIC) compared to those in the non-VTE group (n = 131). ROC curve analyses showed that the diagnostic efficacy of the new VTE risk prediction model with TM ≥ 9.75 TU/ml, TAT ≥ 2.25ng/ml, t-PAIC ≥ 7.35ng/ml, history of VTE, and ECOG PS score ≥ 2 was superior than the KRS and the PRS in the early identification of lung cancer patients with a higher risk of VTE.

CONCLUSIONS

The new risk prediction model showed significantly high diagnostic efficacy in the early identification of lung cancer patients with a high risk of VTE. The diagnostic efficacy of the new risk prediction model was higher than the KRS and the PRS in this cohort of lung cancer patients.

CodY: An Essential Transcriptional Regulator Involved in Environmental Stress Tolerance in Foodborne Staphylococcus aureus RMSA24

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), as the main pathogen in milk and dairy products, usually causes intoxication with vomiting and various kinds of inflammation after entering the human body. CodY, an important transcriptional regulator in S. aureus, plays an important role in regulating metabolism, growth, and virulence. However, little is known about the role of CodY on environmental stress tolerance. In this research, we revealed the role of CodY in environmental stress tolerance in foodborne S. aureus RMSA24. codY mutation significantly reduced the tolerance of S. aureus to desiccation and oxidative, salt, and high-temperature stresses. However, S. aureus was more tolerant to low temperature stress due to mutation of codY. We found that the expressions of two important heat shock proteins-GroEL and DanJ-were significantly down-regulated in the mutant codY. This suggests that CodY may indirectly regulate the high- and low-temperature tolerance of S. aureus by regulating the expressions of groEL and danJ. This study reveals a new mechanism of environmental stress tolerance in S. aureus and provides new insights into controlling the contamination and harm caused by S. aureus in the food industry.

Computed Tomography-based Radiomics Nomogram for the Preoperative Prediction of Tumor Deposits and Clinical Outcomes in Colon Cancer: a Multicenter Study

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES

To develop and validate a computed tomography (CT)-based radiomics nomogram for the preoperative prediction of tumor deposits (TDs) and clinical outcomes in patients with colon cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study included 383 consecutive patients with colon cancer from two centers. Radiomics features were extracted from portal venous phase CT images. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression was applied for feature selection and radiomics signature construction. The multivariate logistic regression model was used to establish a radiomics nomogram. The performance of the nomogram was assessed by using receiver operating characteristic curves, calibration curves and decision curve analysis. Kaplan‒Meier survival analysis was used to assess the difference of the overall survival (OS) in the TDs-positive and TDs-negative groups.

RESULTS

The radiomics signature was composed of 11 TDs status related features. The AUCs of the radiomics model in the training cohort, internal validation and external validation cohorts were 0.82, 0.78 and 0.78, respectively. The radiomics nomogram that incorporated the radiomics signature and clinical independent predictors (CT-N, CEA and CA199) showed good calibration and discrimination with AUCs of 0.88, 0.80 and 0.81 in the training cohort, internal validation and external validation cohorts, respectively. The radiomics nomogram-predicted high-risk groups had a worse OS than the low-risk groups (p < 0.001). The radiomics nomogram-predicted TDs was an independent preoperative predictor of OS.

CONCLUSION

The radiomics nomogram based on CT radiomics features and clinical independent predictors could effectively predict the preoperative TDs status and OS of colon cancer.

IMPORTANT FINDINGS

CT-based radiomics nomogram may be applied in the individual preoperative prediction of TDs status in colon cancer. Additionally, there was a significant difference in OS between the high-risk and low-risk groups defined by the radiomics nomogram, in which patients with high-risk TDs had a significantly worse OS, compared with those with low-risk TDs.

Trends in the Epidemiology of Pneumocystis Pneumonia in Immunocompromised Patients without HIV Infection

The increasing morbidity and mortality of life-threatening Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) in immunocompromised people poses a global concern, prompting the World Health Organization to list it as one of the 19 priority invasive fungal diseases, calling for increased research and public health action. In response to this initiative, we provide this review on the epidemiology of PCP in non-HIV patients with various immunodeficient conditions, including the use of immunosuppressive agents, cancer therapies, solid organ and stem cell transplantation, autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, inherited or primary immunodeficiencies, and COVID-19. Special attention is given to the molecular epidemiology of PCP outbreaks in solid organ transplant recipients; the risk of PCP associated with the increasing use of immunodepleting monoclonal antibodies and a wide range of genetic defects causing primary immunodeficiency; the trend of concurrent infection of PCP in COVID-19; the prevalence of colonization; and the rising evidence supporting de novo infection rather than reactivation of latent infection in the pathogenesis of PCP. Additionally, we provide a concise discussion of the varying effects of different immunodeficient conditions on distinct components of the immune system. The objective of this review is to increase awareness and knowledge of PCP in non-HIV patients, thereby improving the early identification and treatment of patients susceptible to PCP.

PIF1 Promotes Autophagy to Inhibit Chronic Hypoxia Induced Apoptosis of Pulmonary Artery Endothelial Cells

Purpose

Pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH) is a common complication of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome worldwide. Pulmonary vascular alterations associated with PAH have multifactorial causes, in which endothelial cells play an important role. Autophagy is closely related to endothelial cell injury and the development of PAH. PIF1 is a multifunctional helicase crucial for cell survival. The present study investigated the effect of PIF1 on autophagy and apoptosis in human pulmonary artery endothelial cells (HPAECs) under chronic hypoxia stress.

Methods

Chronic hypoxia Gene expression profiling chip-assays identified the PIF1 gene as differentially expressed, which was verified by RT-qPCR analysis. Electron microscopy, immunofluorescence, and Western blotting were used to analyze autophagy and the expression of LC3 and P62. Apoptosis was analyzed using flow cytometry.

Results

Our study found that chronic hypoxia induces autophagy in HPAECs, and apoptosis was exacerbated by inhibiting autophagy. Levels of the DNA helicase PIF1 were increased in HPAECs after chronic hypoxia. PIF1 knockdown inhibited autophagy and promoted the apoptosis of HPAECs under chronic hypoxia stress.

Conclusion

Based on these findings, we conclude that PIF1 inhibits the apoptosis of HPAECs by accelerating the autophagy pathway. Therefore, PIF1 plays a crucial role in HPAEC dysfunction in chronic hypoxia-induced PAH and may be a potential target for the treatment of PAH.

A meta-analysis of the clinical significance of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratios in interstitial lung disease

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a group of diffuse parenchymal infiltrating diseases of different etiologies. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) can reflect ILD's existence, progression, and prognosis and is currently regarded as a promising biological marker. This meta-analysis assessed elevated NLR levels in ILD for their predictive value. From inception to July 27, 2022, the Scopus, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, and PubMed databases were checked thoroughly. We used the weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) to compare blood NLR values between groups. We examined the relationship between poor prognoses and elevated NLR concentrations in ILD patients using odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CI. After initially including 443 studies, 24 were ultimately analyzed. Fifteen studies(ILD:n = 2,912, Non-ILD: n = 2,868) revealed that the NLR values in the ILD group were relatively high (WMD = 0.61, 95% CI 0.43-0.79, p = 0.001). Eight articles (with poor prognoses: n = 407, without poor prognoses: n = 340) indicated that ILD patients with poor prognoses had higher NLR values (WMD = 1.33, 95% CI 0.32-2.33, p = 0.01). This distinction was especially noticeable in patients with the connective tissue disease (CTD)associated with ILD subgroup (WMD = 3.53, 95% CI 1.54-5.51, p = 0.0005). The pooled OR for increased NLR levels forecasting poor prognoses of ILD was 1.09 (95% CI 1.03-1.15, p = 0.0008). Increasing blood NLR values have clinical significance and application value for detecting ILD and predicting its poor prognosis, especially in CTD patients.

Highly Enhanced Photocatalytic NO Removal and Inhibited Peroxyacetyl Nitrate Formation in Synergistic Acetaldehyde Degradation

The coexistence of NO and CH3CHO in the air is considered to produce secondary peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN) under sunlight irradiation, threatening the ecological environment and public health. Herein, we provide a simple strategy for the photocatalytic removal of NO and acetaldehyde (CH3CHO) on Sr2Sb2O7. In comparison with the single removal, the nearly complete removal of NO is reached by deep oxidation to NO3- with the assistance of CH3CHO. The underlying mechanism is revealed by GC-MS, in situ DRIFTS, and density functional theory calculations. The intermediates •CH3 from CH3CHO and NO2- from NO tend to bond and further oxidize to CH3ONO2, thus promoting NO removal. CH3NO2 and CH3ONO2 are the key products instead of PAN on Sr2Sb2O7 from the synergistic degradation of NO and CH3CHO. This work brings new insights into reaction pathway regulation for promoting performance and suppressing byproducts during synergistic air pollutant removal.

Improved Measurement of the Evolution of the Reactor Antineutrino Flux and Spectrum at Daya Bay

Reactor neutrino experiments play a crucial role in advancing our knowledge of neutrinos. In this Letter, the evolution of the flux and spectrum as a function of the reactor isotopic content is reported in terms of the inverse-beta-decay yield at Daya Bay with 1958 days of data and improved systematic uncertainties. These measurements are compared with two signature model predictions: the Huber-Mueller model based on the conversion method and the SM2018 model based on the summation method. The measured average flux and spectrum, as well as the flux evolution with the ^{239}Pu isotopic fraction, are inconsistent with the predictions of the Huber-Mueller model. In contrast, the SM2018 model is shown to agree with the average flux and its evolution but fails to describe the energy spectrum. Altering the predicted inverse-beta-decay spectrum from ^{239}Pu fission does not improve the agreement with the measurement for either model. The models can be brought into better agreement with the measurements if either the predicted spectrum due to ^{235}U fission is changed or the predicted ^{235}U, ^{238}U, ^{239}Pu, and ^{241}Pu spectra are changed in equal measure.

Water uptake in germinating pecan (Carya illinoinensis) seed

• Water uptake is the fundamental and essential requirement for seed germination. Pecan seed has a hard woody endocarp and plays an important role during water uptake. • To explore the laws of water uptake during germination, the spatiotemporal pattern of water and the effect of endocarp were analysed by water measuring, high-field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), dye-tracing, blocking and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). • Isolated seeds finish water uptake in 8h while whole seeds take 6d, and the cracking of endocarp plays an important role. The hilum is the channel for water to enter the seed, the rest of the seed coat consist of cells covered with a waxy layer and act as a barrier that made it difficult to absorb water. The region with the highest water contents in pecan seed was the edge of the U-shaped region and the water progressively diffused from the edge of the U-shaped region to the whole kernel. • There seems to be a new water absorption stage between phase II and phase III of triphasic model of water uptake of pecan seeds. The cracking of endocarp changed the water distribution in pecan seeds, which may be the trigger for further water absorption and radicle elongation.

Cyclovirobuxine D inhibits growth and progression of non‑small cell lung cancer cells by suppressing the KIF11‑CDC25C‑CDK1‑CyclinB1 G2/M phase transition regulatory network and the NFκB/JNK signaling pathway

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer‑related mortality worldwide. Non‑small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common pathological subtype of lung cancer and is associated with low 5‑year overall survival rates. Therefore, novel and effective chemotherapeutic drugs are urgently required for improving the survival outcomes of patients with lung cancer. Cyclovirobuxine D (CVB‑D) is a natural steroidal alkaloid, used for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Several studies have also demonstrated the antitumor effects of CVB‑D. Therefore, in the present study, the therapeutic effects of CVB‑D in lung cancer and the underlying mechanisms were investigated using the in vivo xenograft model of NSCLC in nude mice and in vitro experiments with the NSCLC cell lines. Bioinformatics analyses of RNA‑sequencing data, and cell‑based functional assays demonstrated that CVB‑D treatment significantly inhibited in vitro and in vivo NSCLC cell proliferation, survival, invasion, migration, angiogenesis, epithelial‑to‑mesenchymal transition and G₂/M phase cell cycle. CVB‑D exerted its antitumor effects by inhibiting the KIF11‑CDK1‑CDC25C‑cyclinB1 G₂/M phase transition regulatory oncogenic network and the NF‑κB/JNK signaling pathway. CVB‑D treatment significantly reduced the sizes and weights and malignancy of xenograft NSCLC tumors in the nude mice. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that CVB‑D inhibited the growth and progression of NSCLC cells by inhibiting the KIF11‑CDK1‑CDC25C‑CyclinB1 G₂/M phase transition regulatory network and the NF‑κB/JNK signaling pathway. Therefore, CVB‑D is a promising drug for the treatment of NSCLC patients.

Precision Measurement of Reactor Antineutrino Oscillation at Kilometer-Scale Baselines by Daya Bay

We present a new determination of the smallest neutrino mixing angle θ_{13} and the mass-squared difference Δm_{32}^{2} using a final sample of 5.55×10^{6} inverse beta-decay (IBD) candidates with the final-state neutron captured on gadolinium. This sample is selected from the complete dataset obtained by the Daya Bay reactor neutrino experiment in 3158 days of operation. Compared to the previous Daya Bay results, selection of IBD candidates has been optimized, energy calibration refined, and treatment of backgrounds further improved. The resulting oscillation parameters are sin^{2}2θ_{13}=0.0851±0.0024, Δm_{32}^{2}=(2.466±0.060)×10^{-3}  eV^{2} for the normal mass ordering or Δm_{32}^{2}=-(2.571±0.060)×10^{-3}  eV^{2} for the inverted mass ordering.

Glutamate levels in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex and resting‐state functional connectivity within reward circuits in alcohol‐dependent patients

Great progress has been made in understanding the neural mechanisms associated with alcohol-dependent (AD) patients. However, the interactions within the reward circuits of the patients need further exploration. Glutamatergic projections from the prefrontal cortex to some brain regions are present in the reward circuit. However, little is known about the potential implications of glutamate levels in the prefrontal cortex on abnormal interactions within reward circuits in AD patients. To determine the potential roles of reward circuits in drinking, we investigated differences in resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC) and multivariate Granger causality analysis between 20 AD patients and 20 healthy controls (HC). The neuroimaging findings were then correlated with clinical variables (alcohol use disorder identification test). The ventromedial prefrontal cortex (VmPFC) is believed to play a critical role in addiction disorders, and glutamatergic projections from the prefrontal cortex to several regions of the brain are present in reward circuits. Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy was also performed to assess the difference in glutamate levels in VmPFC between AD patients and HC. The results showed that the strength of functional connectivity in the reward circuit was generally attenuated in AD patients, and the reciprocal enhancement of activity between the right insula, left thalamus and VmPFC was found to be significantly greater in AD patients. It is worth noting that although glutamate levels in the VmPFC did not show significant differences between the two groups, the level of glutamate in the VmPFC was significantly correlated with RSFC. We hope that the current findings will help us to develop new intervention models based on the important role of the VmPFC in AD.

Complete bio-degradation of poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) via engineered cutinases

Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT), a polyester made of terephthalic acid (TPA), 1,4-butanediol, and adipic acid, is extensively utilized in plastic production and has accumulated globally as environmental waste. Biodegradation is an attractive strategy to manage PBAT, but an effective PBAT-degrading enzyme is required. Here, we demonstrate that cutinases are highly potent enzymes that can completely decompose PBAT films in 48 h. We further show that the engineered cutinases, by applying a double mutation strategy to render a more flexible substrate-binding pocket exhibit higher decomposition rates. Notably, these variants produce TPA as a major end-product, which is beneficial feature for the future recycling economy. The crystal structures of wild type and double mutation of a cutinase from Thermobifida fusca in complex with a substrate analogue are also solved, elucidating their substrate-binding modes. These structural and biochemical analyses enable us to propose the mechanism of cutinase-mediated PBAT degradation.

The hydrogen bond between tryptophan and the host molecule induced fluorescence enhancement

Tryptophan is one of important anion acids in human body, therefore, its detection is particularly important. 3,5-bis (4-pyridyl)-4-amino-1,2,4-triazole (BPAT) organic molecule was designed to be used as fluorescence detectors to detect tryptophan molecules for the interaction between the host and the guest. The BPAT shows good sensitivity and selectivity toward tryptophan compared to other amino acid molecules. The limit of detection obtained from formula 3δ/Ksv is considered to be 5.43×10^-7 mol/L. We speculated that this change is mainly caused by the hydrogen bond between tryptophan and the host molecule BPAT. And the conjecture was verified by the controlled experiments with BPTA and TBZA as guest molecules.

Three amphioxus reference genomes reveal gene and chromosome evolution of chordates

The slow-evolving invertebrate amphioxus has an irreplaceable role in advancing our understanding of the vertebrate origin and innovations. Here we resolve the nearly complete chromosomal genomes of three amphioxus species, one of which best recapitulates the 17 chordate ancestor linkage groups. We reconstruct the fusions, retention, or rearrangements between descendants of whole-genome duplications, which gave rise to the extant microchromosomes likely existed in the vertebrate ancestor. Similar to vertebrates, the amphioxus genome gradually establishes its three-dimensional chromatin architecture at the onset of zygotic activation and forms two topologically associated domains at the Hox gene cluster. We find that all three amphioxus species have ZW sex chromosomes with little sequence differentiation, and their putative sex-determining regions are nonhomologous to each other. Our results illuminate the unappreciated interspecific diversity and developmental dynamics of amphioxus genomes and provide high-quality references for understanding the mechanisms of chordate functional genome evolution.

Molecular characterization, expression analysis and function identification of TNFα in black rockfish (Sebastes schlegelii)

TNFα, as a pro-inflammatory cytokine, plays an important role in inflammation and immune homeostasis maintaining. However, the knowledge about the immune functions of teleost TNFα against bacterial infections is still limited. In this study, the TNFα was characterized from black rockfish (Sebastes schlegelii). The bioinformatics analyses showed the evolutionary conservations in sequence and structure. The expression levels of Ss_TNFα mRNA were significantly up-regulated in the spleen and intestine after Aeromonas salmonicides and Edwardsiella tarda infections, and dramatically down-regulated in PBLs after LPS and poly I:C stimulations. Meanwhile, the extremely up-regulated expressions of other inflammatory cytokines (especially for IL-1β and IL17C) were observed in the intestine and spleen after bacterial infection and down-regulations were obtained in PBLs. The significant regulation with expression patterns of Ss_TNFα and other inflammatory cytokine mRNAs illustrated the variations of immunity in different tissues and cells of black rockfish. The regulated functions of Ss_TNFα in the up/downstream signaling pathways were preliminarily verified on the transcription and translation levels. Subsequently, in vitro knockdown of Ss_TNFα in the intestine cells of black rockfish confirmed the important immune roles of Ss_TNFα. Finally, the apoptotic analyses were conducted in PBLs and intestine cells of black rockfish. The rapid increases of the apoptotic rates were obtained in both PBLs and intestine cells after treatment with rSs_TNFα, but distinct apoptotic rates at the early and late stages of apoptosis were observed between these two types of cells. The results of apoptotic analyses suggested that Ss_TNFα could trigger apoptosis of different cells in different strategies in black rockfish. Overall, the findings in this study indicated the important roles of Ss_TNFα in the immune system of black rockfish during pathogenic infection, as well as the potential function on biomarker for monitoring the health status.

Method of high-precision free-space distance measurement for noncooperative targets

Aimed at high-precision distance measurement for noncooperative targets in free space, a spatial distance measurement method is proposed. Based on the concept of optical carrier-based microwave interferometry, this method extracts distance information from the radiofrequency domain. The interference model of broadband light beams is established, and the optical interference can be eliminated by using a broadband light source. A spatial optical system with a Cassegrain telescope as the main body is designed to effectively receive the backscattered signal without cooperative targets. A free-space distance measurement system is built to verify the feasibility of the proposed method, and the results agree well with the set distances. Long-distance measurements with a resolution of 0.033 µm can be achieved, and the errors of the ranging experiments are within 0.1 µm. The proposed method has the advantages of fast processing speed, high measurement accuracy, and high immunity to disturbances as well as the potential for measurement of other physical quantities.

A novel gdmH-related gene, ghl, involved in environmental stress tolerance and vancomycin susceptibility in milk-derived Staphylococcus aureus

Staphylococcus aureus is one of the main microorganisms that contaminate dairy products and pickled foods, and has a great impact on economy and human health. GdmH-related proteins, as important functional units widely present in Staphylococcus species, have not been reported in S. aureus so far. In this study, we identified a gdmH-related gene, named ghl. We found that mutation of ghl gene could decrease the tolerance of environmental stresses (heat, desiccation, salt and hydrogen peroxide) of S. aureus and enhanced the capacities of biofilm formation. In addition, the ghl mutant was more sensitive to vancomycin on CAMHB solid plates but more resistant to vancomycin in CAMHB liquid medium compared to wild type RMSA24. These results indicated that ghl is an important factor to respond to environmental stress in foodborne S. aureus. This paper for the first time reported that a GdmH-related protein plays an important role in environmental tolerance, providing a new direction for the follow-up study of GdmH-related proteins, as well as a potential target gene for further research on the tolerance mechanism of Staphylococcus aureus in food processing and the control of biofilm formation.

Radiomics nomogram integrating intratumoural and peritumoural features to predict lymph node metastasis and prognosis in clinical stage IA non-small cell lung cancer: a two-centre study

AIM

To investigate the value of a radiomics nomogram integrating intratumoural and peritumoural features in predicting lymph node metastasis and overall survival (OS) in patients with clinical stage IA non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study retrospectively enrolled 199 patients (training cohort: 71 patients from Affiliated Tumour Hospital of Nantong University; internal validation cohort: 46 patients from Affiliated Tumour Hospital of Nantong University; external validation cohort: 82 patients from the public database). CT radiomics models were constructed based on four volumes of interest: gross tumour volume (GTV), gross and 3 mm peritumoural volume (GPTV₃), gross and 6 mm peritumoural volume (GPTV₆), and gross and 9 mm peritumoural volume (GPTV₉). The optimal radiomics signature was further combined with independent clinical predictors to develop a nomogram. Univariable and multivariable Cox regression analysis were applied to determine the relationship between factors and OS.

RESULTS

GPTV₆ radiomics yielded better performance than GTV, GPTV₃, and, GPTV₉ radiomics in the training (area under the curve [AUC], 0.81), internal validation (AUC, 0.79), and external validation cohorts (AUC, 0.71), respectively. The nomogram integrating GPTV₆ radiomics and spiculation improved predictive ability, with AUCs of 0.85, 0.80, and 0.74 in three cohorts, respectively. Pathological lymph node metastasis, nomogram-predicted lymph node metastasis, and pleural indentation were independent risk predictors of OS (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The nomogram integrating GPTV₆ radiomics features and independent clinical predictors performed well in predicting lymph node metastasis and prognosis in patients with clinical stage IA NSCLC.

Amorphous SnO2 decorated ZnSn(OH)6 promotes interfacial hydroxyl polarization for deep photocatalytic toluene mineralization

Surface hydroxyl groups play a decisive role in the generation of hydroxyl radicals with stronger oxidizing ability, which is indispensable in photocatalytic VOCs removal, especially under the condition of low humidity. In this work, non-noble amorphous SnO₂ decorated ZnSn(OH)₆ (ZSH) was synthesized by an in-situ method. The charge transport, reactant activation and hydroxyl polarization are enhanced through decoration of amorphous SnO₂ on ZSH. Combined with the designed experiment, in-situ EPR, DTF calculation and in-situ DRIFTS, the role and mechanism of interfacial hydroxyl polarization are revealed on SnO₂ decorated ZnSn(OH)₆. Compared with pristine ZSH and noble-metal modified ZSH, the toluene degradation rate of amorphous SnO₂ decorated ZSH is increased by 13.0 and 3.8 times, and the toluene mineralization rate is increased by 5.2 and 2.2 times. The ZSH-24 sample maintains a high toluene degradation activity after 6 cyclic utilization without catalyst deactivation. This work emphasizes the role of non-noble metal and the origin of hydroxyl group polarization on ZnSn(OH)₆ for photocatalytic VOCs mineralization.

Combined analysis of chromatin accessibility and gene expression profiles provide insight into Fucoxanthin biosynthesis in Isochrysis galbana under green light

Isochrysis galbana, as a potential accumulator of fucoxanthin, has become a valuable material to develop functional foods for humans. Our previous research revealed that green light effectively promotes the accumulation of fucoxanthin in I. galbana, but there is little research on chromatin accessibility in the process of transcriptional regulation. This study was conducted to reveal the mechanism of fucoxanthin biosynthesis in I. galbana under green light by analyzing promoter accessibility and gene expression profiles. Differentially accessible chromatin regions (DARs)-associated genes were enriched in carotenoid biosynthesis and photosynthesis-antenna protein formation, including IgLHCA1, IgLHCA4, IgPDS, IgZ-ISO, IglcyB, IgZEP, and IgVDE. The motifs for the MYB family were also identified as candidates controlling metabolic regulation responses to green light culture of I. galbana, including IgMYB1, IgMYB2, IgMYB33, IgMYB42, IgMYB98, IgMYB118, and IgMYB119. The results of differential expression analysis and WGCNA showed that several genes or transcription factors (TFs) related to carotenoid metabolism and photosynthesis exhibited a higher expression level and were significantly upregulated in A-G5d compared with A-0d and A-W5d, including IgMYB98, IgLHCA1, IgLHCX2, IgLHCB4, and IgLHCB5. This suggests that upregulation of these genes by green light may be the key factor leading to fucoxanthin accumulation by regulating the photosynthesis-antenna protein pathway. An integrated analysis of ATAC-seq and RNA-seq showed that 3 (IgphoA, IgPKN1, IgOTC) of 34 DARs-associated genes displayed obvious changes in their chromatin regions in ATAC-seq data, suggesting that these genes specific for green light may play a key role in fucoxanthin biosynthesis in I. galbana through a complex regulatory network of multiple metabolic pathways interacting with each other. These findings will facilitate in-depth understanding the molecular regulation mechanisms of fucoxanthin in I. galbana and its role in response to green light regulation, providing technical support for the construction of high fucoxanthin content strains.

First-line programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) inhibitor and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) blockade, combined with platinum-based chemotherapy, for stage IV penile cancer

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the anti-tumour activity and safety of anti-programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) antibody plus epidermal growth factor receptor blockade combined with platinum-based chemotherapy (PEP) as first-line therapy for stage IV penile squamous cell carcinoma (PSCC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of 17 patients with stage IV PSCC undergoing first-line PEP at Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center between January 2018 and September 2021. Clinical responses were assessed using the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumours (RECIST) version 1.1. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Adverse events (AEs) were graded according to Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 5.0.

RESULTS

Of 17 patients who received first-line PEP, 13 were observed to have partial responses. Twelve patients subsequently received consolidated surgery. Nine of these achieved pN0 status, of whom six with locally advanced PSCC achieved pathological complete response. The median (range) follow-up time was 24.87 (3.63-29.40) months. Median PFS and median OS were not reached, with 2-year PFS and OS rates being 68.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] 48.7-96.1) and 62.9% (95% CI 41.6-95), respectively. Eight patients experienced Grade 3 or 4 treatment-related AEs. No Grade 5 AEs or death associated with treatment was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Anti-PD-1 antibody plus epidermal growth factor receptor blockade and platinum-based chemotherapy showed promising anti-tumour activity, acceptable toxicity, and satisfying long-term survival for stage IV PSCC. Larger clinical trials are needed to validate our findings.

Derivation and characterization of new cell line from intestine of turbot (Scophthalmus maximus)

A continuous intestine cell line from turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) designated as SMI was established utilizing the tissue explant technique. Primary SMI cell was cultured at 24 °C in a medium with 20% fetal bovine serum (FBS), then subcultured in 10% FBS after 10 passages. Impacts of medium or temperature on the growth of SMI were examined and the results indicated it grew well in DMEM supplemented with 10% FBS at 24 °C. The SMI cell line was subcultured more than 60 times. Karyotyping, chromosome number, and ribosomal RNA genotyping analysis revealed that SMI had a modal diploid chromosome number of 44 and originated from turbot. After being transfected with pEGFP-N1 and FAM-siRNA, a large number of green fluorescence signals were observed in SMI, indicating that SMI could be used as an ideal platform to explore gene function in vitro. In addition, the expression of epithelium-associated genes such as itga6, itgb4, gja1, claudin1, zo-1, and E-cadherin in SMI suggested the SMI had some characteristics of epidermal cells. The upregulation of immune-associated genes such as TNF-β, NF-κB, and IL-1β in SMI after stimulation with pathogen-associated molecular patterns suggested the SMI might exhibit immune functions similar to the intestinal epithelium in vivo.

Spatial transcriptomes and microbiota reveal immune mechanism that respond to pathogen infection in the posterior intestine of Sebastes schlegelii

The intestine is a site of immune cell priming at birth. Therefore, spatial transcriptomes were performed to define how the transcriptomic landscape was spatially organized in the posterior intestine of Sebastes schlegelii following Edwardsiella piscicida infection. In the healthy condition, we identified a previously unappreciated molecular regionalization of the posterior intestine. Following bacterial infection, most immune-related genes were identified in mucosa layer. Moreover, investigation of immune-related genes and genes in immune-related KEGG pathways based on spatial transcriptomes shed light on which sections of these genes are in the posterior intestine. Meanwhile, the high expression of genes related to regeneration also indicated that the posterior intestine was responding to the invasion of pathogens by constantly proliferating new cells. In addition, the increasing microbiota communities indicated that these bacteria maintained posterior intestine integrity and shaped the mucosal immune system. Taken together, spatial transcriptomes and microbiota compositions have significant implications for understanding the immune mechanism that responds to E. piscicida infection in the posterior intestine of S. schlegelii, which also provides a theoretical basis for the spatial distribution of immune genes and changes in bacterial flora in other teleosts in the process of resisting pathogens.

Ribavirin extends the lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans through AMPK-TOR Signaling

Aging is a process accompanied by widespread degenerative changes which are a major cause of human disease and disability. One goal of aging research is to develop interventions or drugs that can extend organism lifespan and treat age-related diseases. Here, we report the identification of a broad spectrum anti-viral agent, ribavirin, as a potential pharmacological aging intervention. Ribavirin extended the lifespan and healthspan of Caenorhabditis elegans by inhibiting Target of Rapamycin (TOR) signaling and activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Moreover, our data indicate that ribavirin activated AMPK by reducing the levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and lysosomal v-ATPase-Ragulator-AXIN Complex. Thus, our studies successfully identify ribavirin as a potential anti-aging drug, and indicate that its anti-aging effect is mediated via AMPK-TOR signaling.

The Two-Component System CpxRA Affects Antibiotic Susceptibility and Biofilm Formation in Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli

Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) is one of the common extraintestinal infectious disease pathogens in chickens, geese, and other birds. It can cause a variety of infections, and even the death of poultry, causing enormous economic losses. However, the misuse and abuse of antibiotics in the poultry industry have led to the development of drug resistance in the gut microbes, posing a challenge for the treatment of APEC infections. It has been reported that the CpxRA two-component system has an effect on bacterial drug resistance, but the specific regulatory mechanism remains unclear. In this study, the regulatory mechanism of CpxRA on APEC biofilm formation and EmrKY efflux pump was investigated. The cpxRA knockout strain of E. coli APEC40 was constructed, and the molecular regulatory mechanism of CpxR on biofilms and efflux pump-coding genes were identified by biofilm formation assays, drug susceptibility test, real-time reverse transcription quantitative PCR, and electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA). The results indicated that CpxR can directly bind to the promoter region of emrKY and negatively regulate the sensitivity of bacteria to ofloxacin and erythromycin. These results confirm the important regulatory role of the CpxRA two-component system under antibiotic stress in APEC.