Hohaiivirga grylli gen. nov., sp. nov., a New Member of the Family Methylobacteriaceae, Isolated from Cricket (Gryllus chinensis).

A Gram-staining negative, non-motile, rod-shaped, oxidase negative and catalase positive strain WL0021T was isolated from cricket (Gryllus chinensis) living in the campus of Hohai University. Strain WL0021T was characterized utilizing a polyphasic taxonomy approach. The major fatty acids (> 5%) for strain WL0021T were C16:0 and summed feature 8, and the major polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylcholine, phospholipid, two aminolipids, and an unidentified polar lipid. Ubiquinone-10 was detected as the predominant respiratory quinone. The results of 16S rRNA gene phylogenetic analyses revealed that strain WL0021T had the highest sequence similarity of 95.3% to Microvirga flavescens c27j1T and strain WL0021T formed a distinct linage within the family Methylobacteriaceae in the phylogenetic trees. Whole genomic DNA G+C content was 48.3%. Combined with the results from this study, strain WL0021T should represent a novel genus in the family Methylobacteriaceae, for which the name Hohaiivirga grylli gen. nov., sp. nov. (type strain WL0021T=GDMCC 1.2420T =JCM 34655T=MCCC 1K05886T) is proposed.

DDIT3 switches osteogenic potential of BMP9 to lipogenic by attenuating Wnt/ß-catenin signaling via up-regulating DKK1 in mesenchymal stem cells.

Bone morphogenetic protein 9 (BMP9) functions as a potent inducer of osteogenic differentiation in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), holding promise for bone tissue engineering. However, BMP9 also concurrently triggers lipogenic differentiation in MSCs, potentially compromising its osteogenic potential. In this study, we explored the role of DNA damage inducible transcript 3 (DDIT3) in regulating the balance between BMP9-induced osteogenic and lipogenic differentiation in MSCs. Utilizing techniques such as PCR, Western blot, histochemical staining, and in vivo experiments, we analyzed the osteogenic and lipogenic markers induced by BMP9 and delved into the underlying molecular mechanism. We found a significant upregulation of DDIT3 in C3H10T1/2 cells treated with BMP9. This upregulation led to a reduction in BMP9-induced osteogenic markers but an enhancement in lipogenic markers. Conversely, knocking down DDIT3 produced the opposite effects. Furthermore, BMP9-induced bone formation was decreased in the presence of DDIT3, but adipocyte formation was increased. Further investigations demonstrated that BMP9 increased the phosphorylation level of GSK-3ß and promoted nuclear translocation of ß-catenin, both of which were suppressed by DDIT3. Moreover, DDIT3 decreased the total ß-catenin protein level while BMP9 increased the DKK1 protein level, which was further enhanced by DDIT3. Notably, knocking down DKK1 partially reversed the effect of DDIT3 on reducing BMP9-induced osteogenic markers and increasing lipogenic markers. Our findings indicated that DDIT3 enhances lipogenic differentiation by diminishing BMP9's osteogenic potential, possibly through inhibiting Wnt/ß-catenin signaling via DKK1 upregulation in MSCs.

Taxonomic revision of Geotrichum and Magnusiomyces, with the descriptions of five new Geotrichum species from China.

The arthroconidial yeast-like species currently classified in the asexual genera Geotrichum and Saprochaete and the sexual genera Dipodascus, Galactomyces and Magnusiomyces are frequently associated with dairy and cosmetics production, fruit rot and human infection. However, the taxonomic system of these fungi has not been updated to accommodate the new nomenclature code adopting the "one fungus, one name" principle. Here, we performed phylogenetic analyses of these yeast-like species based on the sequences of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and the D1/D2 domain of the large subunit of the rRNA gene. Two monophyletic groups were recognised from these species. One group contained Dipodascus, Galactomyces, and Geotrichum species and the other Magnusiomyces and Saprochaete species. We thus assigned the species in each group into one genus and selected the genus name Geotrichum for the first group and Magnusiomyces for the second one based on the principle of priority of publication. Five new Geotrichum species were identified from arthroconidial yeast strains recently isolated from various sources in China. The new species are described as Ge. dehoogii sp. nov., Ge. fujianense sp. nov., Ge. maricola sp. nov., Ge. smithiae sp. nov., and Ge. sinensis sp. nov.

Transition Metal-Gallium Intermetallic Compounds with Tailored Active Site Configurations for Electrochemical Ammonia Synthesis.

Gallium (Ga) with a low melting point can serve as a unique metallic solvent in the synthesis of intermetallic compounds (IMCs). The negative formation enthalpy of transition metal-Ga IMCs endows them with high catalytic stability. Meanwhile, their tunable crystal structures offer the possibility to tailor the configurations of active sites to meet the requirements for specific catalytic applications. Herein, we present a general method for preparing a range of transition metal-Ga IMCs, including Co-Ga, Ni-Ga, Pt-Ga, Pd-Ga, and Rh-Ga IMCs. The structurally ordered CoGa IMCs with body-centered cubic (bcc) structure are uniformly dispersed on the nitrogen-doped reduced graphene oxide substrate (O-CoGa/NG) and deliver outstanding nitrate reduction reaction (NO3RR) performance, making them excellent catalysts to construct highly efficient rechargeable Zn-NO3- battery. Operando studies and theoretical simulations demonstrate that the electron-rich environments around the Co atoms enhance the adsorption strength of *NO3 intermediate and simultaneously suppress the formation of hydrogen, thus improving the NO3RR activity and selectivity.

Routine blood parameters as auxiliary diagnostic tools for Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection in children.

Introduction. Recently, the incidence of Mycoplasma pneumoniae (M. pneumoniae) infection in children has been increasing annually. Early differential diagnosis of M. pneumoniae infection can not only avoid the abuse of antibiotics, but also is essential for early treatment and reduction of transmission.Gap statement. The change of routine blood parameters may have important clinical significance for the diagnosis of M. pneumoniae infection, but it has not been reported so far.Aim. This study aims to establish a predictive model for M. pneumoniae infection and explore the changes and clinical value of routine blood parameters in children with M. pneumoniae infection, serving as auxiliary indicators for the diagnosis and differentiation of clinical M. pneumoniae infection.Methodology. A total of 770 paediatric patients with respiratory tract infections were enrolled in this study, including 360 in the M. pneumoniae group, 40 in the SARS-CoV-2 group, 200 in the influenza A virus group, and 170 in the control group. The differences of routine blood parameters among all groups were compared, and risk factors were analysed using multivariate logistics analysis, and the diagnostic efficacy of differential indicators using ROC curves.Results. This study revealed that Mono% (OR: 3.411; 95% CI: 1.638-7.102; P=0.001) was independent risk factor associated with M. pneumoniae infection, and Mono% (AUC=0.786, the optimal cutoff at 7.8%) had a good discriminative ability between patients with M. pneumoniae infection and healthy individuals. Additionally, Mono% (OR: 0.424; 95% CI: 0.231-0.781; P=0.006) and Lymp% (OR: 0.430; 95% CI: 0.246-0.753; P=0.003) were independent risk factors for distinguishing M. pneumoniae infection from influenza A virus infection, and the Lymp% (AUC=0.786, the optimal cutoff at 22.1%) and Net% (AUC=0.761, the optimal cutoff at 65.2%) had good discriminative abilities between M. pneumoniae infection and influenza A infection. Furthermore, platelet distribution width (OR: 0.680; 95% CI: 0.538-0.858; P=0.001) was independent risk factor for distinguishing M. pneumoniae infection from SARS-CoV-2 infection. Meanwhile, the ROC curve demonstrated that PDW (AUC=0.786, the optimal cutoff at 15%) has a good ability to differentiate between M. pneumoniae infection and SARS-CoV-2 infection.Conclusion. This study demonstrates that routine blood parameters can be used as auxiliary diagnostic indicators for M. pneumoniae infection and provide reference for the diagnosis and differentiation of clinical M. pneumoniae infection.

Efficacy of Wuda Granule on Recovery of Gastrointestinal Function after Laparoscopic Bowel Resection: A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Wuda Granule (WDG) on recovery of gastrointestinal function after laparoscopic bowel resection in the setting of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS)-based perioperative care. METHODS: A total of 108 patients aged 18 years or older undergoing laparoscopic bowel resection with a surgical duration of 2 to 4.5 h were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive either WDG or placebo (10 g/bag) twice a day from postoperative days 1-3, combining with ERAS-based perioperative care. The primary outcome was time to first defecation. Secondary outcomes were time to first flatus, time to first tolerance of liquid or semi-liquid food, gastrointestinal-related symptoms and length of stay. Subgroup analysis of the primary outcome according to sex, age, tumor site, surgical time, histories of underlying disease or history of abdominal surgery was undertaken. Adverse events were observed and recorded. RESULTS: A total of 107 patients [53 in the WDG group and 54 in the placebo group; 61.7 ± 12.1 years; 50 males (46.7%)] were included in the intention-to-treat analysis. The patients in the WDG group had a significantly shorter time to first defecation and flatus [between-group difference -11.01 h (95% CI -20.75 to -1.28 h), P=0.012 for defecation; -5.41 h (-11.10 to 0.27 h), P=0.040 for flatus] than the placebo group. Moreover, the extent of improvement in postoperative gastrointestinal-related symptoms in the WDG group was significantly better than that in the placebo group (P<0.05). Subgroup analyses revealed that the benefits of WDG were significantly superior in patients who were male, or under 60 years old, or surgical time less than 3 h, or having no history of basic disease or no history of abdominal surgery. There were no serious adverse events. CONCLUSION: The addition of WDG to an ERAS postoperative care may be a viable strategy to enhance gastrointestinal function recovery after laparoscopic bowel resection surgery. (Registry No. ChiCTR2100046242).

[Chemical profiling of Xiaochaihu Granules and characterization of absorbed components in rat plasma after oral administration].

The chemical components of Xiaochaihu Granules and absorbed components in rats after oral administration were identified by using ultra performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole orbitrap mass spectrometry(UPLC-Q-Exactive-Orbitrap-MS)and UPLC-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry(UPLC-MS/MS). Separation was performed on a CORTECS UPLC C~+_(18)(2.1 mm×100 mm, 1.6 µm)column with gradient elution using acetonitrile-0.1% formic acid aqueous solution as the mobile phase. Data on the chemical components were collected in positive and negative ion modes and identified based on the retention time, precise molecular weight, fragment ion information in comparison with the reference substance, and literature report. The rat fever model was established by subcutaneous injection of dry yeast. Subsequently, the normal and model rats received oral administration of Xiaochaihu Granules. Blood samples were taken from the orbital vein at different time points after administration, and the plasma was isolated for scanning and identification of absorbed components using the multi reaction monitoring mode(MRM).A total of 112 chemical components were identified in Xiaochaihu Granules, including 63 flavonoids, 31 saponins, 6 organic acids, 4 phenylpropanoids, 3 amino acids and 5 other compounds. Additionally, 18 prototypical components were identified in rat plasma. This study lays the foundation for further study of the therapeutic material and quality control of Xiaochaihu Granules.

Bioaccessibility and bioavailability assessment of cadmium in rice: In vitro simulators with/without gut microbiota and validation through in vivo mouse and human data.

Assessing the bioaccessibility and bioavailability of cadmium (Cd) is crucial for effective evaluation of the exposure risk associated with intake of Cd-contaminated rice. However, limited studies have investigated the influence of gut microbiota on these two significant factors. In this study, we utilized in vitro gastrointestinal simulators, specifically the RIVM-M (with human gut microbial communities) and the RIVM model (without gut microbial communities), to determine the bioaccessibility of Cd in rice. Additionally, we employed the Caco-2 cell model to assess bioavailability. Our findings provide compelling evidence that gut microbiota significantly reduces Cd bioaccessibility and bioavailability (p<0.05). Notably, strong in vivo-in vitro correlations (IVIVC) were observed between the in vitro bioaccessibilities and bioavailabilities, as compared to the results obtained from an in vivo mouse bioassay (R2 = 0.63-0.65 and 0.45-0.70, respectively). Minerals such as copper (Cu) and iron (Fe) in the food matrix were found to be negatively correlated with Cd bioaccessibility in rice. Furthermore, the results obtained from the toxicokinetic (TK) model revealed that the predicted urinary Cd levels in the Chinese population, based on dietary Cd intake adjusted by in vitro bioaccessibility from the RIVM-M model, were consistent with the actual measured levels (p > 0.05). These results indicated that the RIVM-M model represents a potent approach for measuring Cd bioaccessibility and underscore the crucial role of gut microbiota in the digestion and absorption process of Cd. The implementation of these in vitro methods holds promise for reducing uncertainties in dietary exposure assessment.

Virgibacillus tibetensis sp. nov., isolated from salt lake on the Tibetan plateau of China.

One bacterial strain, designated as C22-A2T, was isolated from Lake LungmuCo in Tibet. Cells of strain C22-A2T were long rod-shaped, Gram-stain-negative, non-spore-forming, with positive catalase and oxidase activity. Optimal growth occurred at 20-25 °C, pH 8.0 and with 3.0-7.0% (w/v) NaCl. Phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA gene and whole genome sequences revealed that strain C22-A2T belonged to the genus Virgibacillus, showing the highest 16S rRNA gene similarity to Virgibacillus halodenitrificans DSM 10037T (97.6%). The average nucleotide identity values between strain C22-A2T and the type strains of related species in the genus Virgibacillus were less than 74.4% and the digital DNA-DNA hybridization values were less than 20.2%, both below the species delineation thresholds of 95 and 70% respectively. The genome analysis revealed that strain C22-A2T harboured genes responsible for osmotic and oxidative stress, enabling it to adapt to its surrounding environment. In terms of biochemical and physiological characteristics, strain C22-A2T shared similar characteristics with the genus Virgibacillus, including the predominant cellular fatty acid anteiso-C15 : 0, the major respiratory quinone MK-7, as well as the polar lipids phosphatidylglycerol and diphosphatidylglycerol. Based on the comprehensive analysis of phylogenetic, phylogenomic, morphological, physiological and biochemical characteristics, strain C22-A2T is proposed to represent a novel species of the genus Virgibacillus, named as Virgibacillus tibetensis sp. nov. (=CGMCC 1.19202T=KCTC 43426T).

Study on correlation between Chinese medicine syndromes in stroke and neurological deficits during recovery phase: Perspective.

Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability and mortality worldwide, necessitating effective rehabilitation strategies for successful recovery. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has gained recognition as a complementary and alternative approach in stroke rehabilitation, owing to its unique syndromes that offer valuable insights for personalized treatment plans. This study aims to elucidate the correlation between TCM syndromes observed during the recovery phase of stroke and the associated neurological deficits. Syndromes such as Blood stasis, Phlegm-dampness, Qi deficiency, and Yin deficiency were systematically examined, while standardized neurological assessments, encompassing motor function, sensory perception, and cognitive abilities, were employed to evaluate the extent of neurological impairment. Rigorous statistical analyses were conducted to discern potential correlations between TCM syndromes and the severity of neurological deficits. The results revealed statistically significant positive associations between certain TCM syndromes, particularly Blood stasis and Phlegm-dampness, and heightened neurological deficits during the recovery phase post-stroke. These findings suggest that these syndromes may serve as indicators of more severe brain injury post-stroke, thereby guiding the development of tailored rehabilitation strategies. By establishing robust connections between TCM syndromes and neurological deficits, this study contributes to advancing our understanding of stroke recovery through an integrated approach that incorporates TCM principles. Moreover, it underscores the potential benefits of integrating TCM into conventional rehabilitation protocols, offering valuable insights for healthcare professionals and potentially improving patient outcomes.

The epidemic characteristics of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection among children in Anhui, China, 2015-2023.

The number of pediatric respiratory tract infection cases in China has significantly increased this year, and Mycoplasma pneumoniae is one of the main pathogens. This study aimed to investigate the epidemiological characteristics of M. pneumoniae in children in the Anhui region and to provide evidence for the prevention and control strategies of M. pneumoniae in children in this region. A total of 66,488 pediatric patients with respiratory tract infection were enrolled from January 2015 to November 2023 in this study. The results of this study exhibited that M. pneumoniae infection in the Anhui region was characterized by a high positive rate during 2021-2023, especially this year is considered a year of pandemic for M. pneumoniae infection. Moreover, the positive rate of M. pneumoniae in female children is significantly higher than in male children, and the infection rate of M. pneumoniae in children increases significantly with age, particularly in school-aged children. IMPORTANCE: The number of pediatric respiratory tract infection cases in China has significantly increased this year, and Mycoplasma pneumoniae is one of the main pathogens. This study aimed to investigate the epidemiological characteristics of M. pneumoniae in children in the Anhui region and provide evidence for the prevention and control strategies of M. pneumoniae in children in this region.

[Lycium barbarum miR2911-loaded exosomes promote spermatogenic function recovery in rats with non-obstructive azoospermia by regulating Wnt/ß-catenin signaling pathways].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of exosomes loaded with Lycium barbarum miRNA (Lb-miR2911) on spermatogenic function recovery in non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) rats through cross-regulation of the Wnt/ß-catenin signaling pathways. METHODS: We established an NOA model in 30 four-week-old male SD rats by intraperitoneal injection of busulfan. At 5 weeks after modeling, we equally randomized the rats into a model control group (MC，untreated), an Lb-miR2911EXO group (Lb-miR2911EXO ，treated by intratesticular injection of Lb-miR2911-loaded exosomes), and a sham group (Shame，treated by intratesticular injection of exosomes-empty drug), with another 10 male SD rats taken as normal controls（NC）. We observed the uptake and metabolic changes of Lb-miR2911 in the testis tissue of the rats by RNA FISH at 2 and 6 weeks after treatment, detected cell proliferation, spermatogenesis and gene expressions of the Wnt/ß-catenin signaling pathways in the testis tissue by Transcriptome sequencing analysis combined with Western blot and RT-PCR at 12 weeks, evaluated the recovery of the spermatogenic function based on the testis tissue morphology and sperm quality, and assessed the organ toxicity of Lb-miR2911 in the tissue and organs of the rats based on histomorphological analysis and the levels of serum TNF-α, IL-1ß, Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and other relevant indicators. RESULTS: After 12 weeks of treatment, histomorphological analysis showed regular arrangement of spermatogenic cells at all levels in the testis tissue, with a large number of mature sperm in the tubular lumen, and with significantly higher Johnsen scores, testis weight, testicular index, sperm concentration and sperm motility in the Lb-miR2911EXO than in the sham group (all P< 0.05). Compared with the model controls, the Lb-miR2911EXO group exhibited remarkably down-regulated gene expression of DACT3 (P< 0.05), up-regulated expressions of DVL2 and ß-catenin (P< 0.05), elevated levels of p-DVL2 and ß-catenin (nucleus) proteins (P< 0.05), increased expressions of cell proliferation-related genes CCND1, CCNE1 and CCNE2 (P< 0.05) and spermatogenesis-related genes DMC1, CCR6, JAM2 and KLC3 (P< 0.05). No pathological changes were observed in the lung, liver and kidney tissues of the rats, or in the levels of serum TNF-α, IL-1ß, AST, ALT, creatinine and urea nitrogen in the rats treated with Lb-miR2911EXO compared with the normal controls (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Lb-miR2911-loaded exosomes promote spermatogenic function recovery in NOA rats through cross-regulation of the DACT3, Wnt and ß-catenin signaling pathways.

IL-27/Blimp-1 axis regulates the differentiation and function of Tim-3+ Tregs during early pregnancy.

Decidual regulatory T cells (Tregs) are essential for successful pregnancy outcome. A subset of Tregs, T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing protein 3-positive regulatory T cells (TregsTim-3+), plays a central role in the acceptance of the fetus during early stages of normal pregnancy. The molecular mechanism regulating the differentiation and function of TregsTim-3+ is unknown. Here, we investigated the role of the transcription factor B lymphocyte-induced maturation protein 1 (Blimp-1) on decidual TregTim-3+ differentiation. We demonstrated that Blimp-1 enhanced the coexpression of negative costimulatory molecules (Tim-3, T cell immunoreceptor with Ig and ITIM domains, and programmed cell death protein 1) on Tregs and improved their immunosuppressive functions, including increased IL-10 secretion, suppression of effector T cell proliferation, and promotion of macrophage polarization toward the M2 phenotype. Furthermore, we showed that IL-27 regulated the expression of Tim-3 and Blimp-1 through the STAT1 signaling pathway and that transfer of TregsBlimp-1+ into an abortion-prone mouse model effectively reduced embryo absorption rate. We postulated that abnormalities in the IL-27/Blimp-1 axis might be associated with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). These findings provided insights for developing more efficient immunotherapies for women with RPL.

Circular RNA IGF1R Promotes Cardiac Repair via Activating ß-Catenin Signaling by Interacting with DDX5 in Mice after Ischemic Insults.

The potential of circular RNAs (circRNAs) as biomarkers and therapeutic targets is becoming increasingly evident, yet their roles in cardiac regeneration and myocardial renewal remain largely unexplored. Here, we investigated the function of circIGF1R and related mechanisms in cardiac regeneration. Through analysis of circRNA sequencing data from neonatal and adult cardiomyocytes, circRNAs associated with regeneration were identified. Our data showed that circIGF1R expression was high in neonatal hearts, decreased with postnatal maturation, and up-regulated after cardiac injury. The elevation was validated in patients diagnosed with acute myocardial infarction (MI) within 1 week. In human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) and myocardial tissue from mice after apical resection and MI, we observed that circIGF1R overexpression enhanced cardiomyocyte proliferation, reduced apoptosis, and mitigated cardiac dysfunction and fibrosis, while circIGF1R knockdown impeded endogenous cardiac renewal. Mechanistically, we identified circIGF1R binding proteins through circRNA precipitation followed by mass spectrometry. RNA pull-down Western blot and RNA immunoprecipitation demonstrated that circIGF1R directly interacted with DDX5 and augmented its protein level by suppressing ubiquitin-dependent degradation. This subsequently triggered the ß-catenin signaling pathway, leading to the transcriptional activation of cyclin D1 and c-Myc. The roles of circIGF1R and DDX5 in cardiac regeneration were further substantiated through site-directed mutagenesis and rescue experiments. In conclusion, our study highlights the pivotal role of circIGF1R in facilitating heart regeneration and repair after ischemic insults. The circIGF1R/DDX5/ß-catenin axis emerges as a novel therapeutic target for enhancing myocardial repair after MI, offering promising avenues for the development of regenerative therapies.

Prognostic value and predictive model of tumor markers in stage I to III gastric cancer patients.

BACKGROUND: Preoperative serum tumor markers have been widely used in the diagnosis and treatment of gastric cancer patients. However, few studies have evaluated the prognosis of gastric cancer patients by establishing statistical models with multiple serum tumor indicators. AIM: To explore the prognostic value and predictive model of tumor markers in stage I and III gastric cancer patients. METHODS: From October 2018 to April 2020, a total of 1236 patients with stage I to III gastric cancer after surgery were included in our study. The relationship between serum tumor markers and clinical and pathological data were analyzed. We established a statistical model to predict the prognosis of gastric cancer based on the results of COX regression analysis. Overall survival (OS) was also compared across different stages of gastric cancer. RESULTS: The deadline for follow-up was May 31, 2023. A total of 1236 patients were included in our study. Univariate analysis found that age, clinical stage, T and N stage, tumor location, differentiation, Borrmann type, size, and four serum tumor markers were prognostic factors of OS (P < 0.05). It was shown that clinical stage, tumor size, alpha foetoprotein, carcinoembryonic antigen, CA125 and CA19-9 (P < 0.05) were independent prognostic factors for OS. According to the scoring results obtained from the statistical model, we found that patients with high scores had poorer survival time (P < 0.05). Furthermore, in stage I patients, the 3-year OS for scores 0-3 ranged from 96.85%, 95%, 85%, and 80%. In stage II patients, the 3-year OS for scores 0-4 were 88.6%, 76.5%, 90.5%, 65.5% and 60%. For stage III patients, 3-year OS for scores 0-6 were 70.9%, 68.3%, 64.1%, 50.9%, 38.4%, 18.5% and 5.2%. We also analyzed the mean survival of patients with different scores. For stage I patients, the mean OS was 55.980 months. In stage II, the mean OS was 51.550 months. The mean OS for stage III was 39.422 months. CONCLUSION: Our statistical model can effectively predict the prognosis of gastric cancer patients.

[Retrospective study on the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of 85 cases of hypophosphatemic rickets in children]. / 85ä¾‹ä½Žè¡€ç£·æ€§ä½å»ç— æ‚£å„¿è¯Šæ–­ã€æ²»ç–—ä¸Žéšè®¿çš„å›žé¡¾æ€§ç ”ç©¶.

OBJECTIVES: To study the diagnosis, treatment, and complications of hypophosphatemic rickets (HR) in children, explore effectiveness evaluation indicators for the disease, and understand the pattern in height growth among these patients. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of the initial clinical data and five-year follow-up data of 85 children with HR treated at Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University from January 2008 to December 2022. RESULTS: Among the 85 children with HR, there were 46 males (54%) and 39 females (46%). The age at initial diagnosis ranged from 6 months to 13 years and 9 months, with a median age of 2.75 years. The average height standard deviation score was -2.0±1.1. At initial diagnosis, children exhibited reduced blood phosphate levels and elevated alkaline phosphatase (ALP), with 99% (84/85) presenting with lower limb deformities. The positive rate for PHEX gene mutations was 93% (55/59). One year post-treatment, there was a significant reduction in ALP levels and the gap between the lower limbs (P<0.05). The fastest height growth occurred in the first year after treatment, at 8.23 cm/year, with a peak height velocity (PHV) phase lasting about two years during puberty. The height increased by 9-20 cm in male children during the PHV stage and 10-15 cm in female children. Major complications included nephrocalcinosis and hyperparathyroidism. The incidence rate of nephrocalcinosis in the first year after treatment was 55% (22/40), which increased with the duration of the disease (P<0.001); an increased urinary phosphate/creatinine ratio was positively associated with a higher risk of nephrocalcinosis (OR=1.740, P<0.001). The incidence of hyperparathyroidism in the first year after treatment was 64% (27/42). CONCLUSIONS: For children presenting with lower limb deformities, short stature, and slow growth, early testing for blood levels of phosphate, calcium, and ALP, along with imaging examinations of the lower limbs, can aid in the early diagnosis of HR. Genetic testing may be utilized for definitive confirmation when necessary. ALP combined with improvements in skeletal deformities and annual height growth can serve as indicators of therapeutic effectiveness for HR. Compared to normal children, children with HR demonstrate a lower height increase during the PHV phase, necessitating close follow-up and timely adjustment of treatment plans Citation:Chinese Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics, 2024, 26(7): 677-682.

Roles of quorum-sensing molecules in methane production from anaerobic digestion aided by biochar.

Biochar has been used to enhance methane generation from anaerobic digestion through establishing direct interspecific electron transfer between microorganisms. However, the microbial communication is still inadequate, thereby limiting further methane production improvement contributed by biochar. This study investigated the roles of quorum-sensing molecules, acylated homoserine lactone (AHL), in anaerobic digestion of waste activated sludge aided by biochar. Results showed that the co-addition of separated biochar and AHL achieved best methane production performance, with the maximal methane yield of 154.7 mL/g volatile suspended solids, which increased by 51.9%, 47.2%, 17.9%, and 39.4% respectively compared to that of control, AHL-loaded biochar, sole AHL, and sole biochar groups. The reason was that the co-addition of separated biochar and AHL promoted the stages of hydrolysis and acidification, promoting the conversion of organic matters and short-chain fatty acids, and optimizing the accumulation of acetate acid. Moreover, the methanogenesis stage also performed best among experimental groups. Correspondingly, the highest activities of electron transfer and coenzyme F420 were obtained, with increase ratios of 33.2% and 27.2% respectively compared to that of control. Furthermore, biochar did more significant effects on the evolution of microbial communities than AHL, and the direct interspecific electron transfer between fermentative bacteria and methanogens were possibly promoted.

[Prospective,multi-center,and large-scale hospital centralized monitoring of clinical safety of Reduning Injection in 100249 children cases].

This study utilized a prospective, large-sample, multi-center, and registered key specialty approach of hospitals to monitor the application of Reduning Injection. A total of 100 249 adolescent patients aged 14 years and below who received Reduning Injection were monitored, resulting in 83 cases of adverse events, with 76 of them being classified as adverse drug reaction(ADR). The calculated incidence rate of ADR for Reduning Injection was 0.076%, indicating a very rare ADR. The main symptoms of ADR were pruritus, diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, high fever, dyspnea, convulsion, and chills. All ADR cases were reported for the first time, including three new ADR cases and 73 known ADR cases. The categories of ADR was general ADR. All ADR was mild in severity. There were more males than females in ADR patients. One patient had a history of ADR, and the drug causing ADR was buprofen. The largest number of ADR cases occurred when the dosage of Reduning injection was 5-10 mL. The dropping speed was 30 drops or less per min, and the solvent type was 5% glucose injection. The most common manifestation of ADR patients was pruritus, followed by diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, high fever, dyspnea, convulsions, and chills. 72 patients(94.74% of ADR patients) discontinued the drug, and three patients(3.95% of ADR patients) were given oxygen inhalation. 47 cases(61.84% of ADR patients) were treated with medication, of which dexamethasone was the most used(24 cases, 46.15% of ADR patients). 76 ADR patients were cured or improved. ADRs are more likely to occur when diagnosed with acute bronchitis by western medicine and cough by traditional Chinese medicine(TCM), TCM syndrome type is wind heat syndrome, and the combination medicine is ambroxol hydrochloride and bromhexine hydrochloride injection, ascorbic acid/vitamin C injection. This result provides an evidence-based safety basis for active pharmacovigilance of Reduning Injection in adolescents aged 14 years and below.

[Evolution of Physical and Chemical Characteristics of Atmospheric Precipitation and Its Significant Impacts on the Environment in Beijing].

Atmospheric precipitation samples were collected in 2018, 2019, and 2021 in Beijing to study the concentrations and changes of the main metal elements and water-soluble ions； the wet deposition fluxes of heavy metals, water-soluble ions, dissolved inorganic nitrogen, and sulfur in the atmospheric precipitation and their impacts on the ecological environment； and the scavenging mechanisms of the typical precipitation to atmospheric pollutants during the study period. The results showed that the precipitation in Beijing during the study period was mostly neutral or alkaline, and the frequency of acid rain occurrence was very low, only accounting for 3.06%. The total concentrations of major metal elements in 2018, 2019, and 2021 were （4 787.46 ±4 704.31）, （7 663.07 ±8 395.05）, and （2 629.13 ±2 369.51） µg·L-1, respectively. The total equivalent concentrations of ions in 2018, 2019, and 2021 were （851.68 ±649.16）, （973.98 ±850.94）, and （644.31 ±531.16） µeq·L-1, respectively. The interannual changes in major metal elements and ions followed the order of 2019 > 2018 > 2021. The seasonal average total concentrations of major metal elements in spring, summer, autumn, and winter were （9 624.25 ±7 327.92）, （4 088.67 ±5 710.14）, （3 357.68 ±3 995.64）, and （6 203.19 ±3 857.43） µg·L-1, respectively, and the seasonal average total equivalent concentrations of ions in spring, summer, autumn, and winter were （1 014.71 ±512.21）, （729.83 ±589.90）, （724.35 ±681.40）, and （1 014.03 ±359.67） µeq·L-1, respectively, all presenting the order of spring > winter > summer > autumn. NO3- and SO42- were the main acid-causing ions in precipitation, whereas NH4+ and Ca2+ were the main acid-neutralizing ions. The wet deposition fluxes of the heavy metal Cd were very low [（0.05 ±0.01） mg·ï¼ˆm2·a）-1], only accounting for （0.13 ±0.04）% of the total wet deposition fluxes of main metal elements； however, its soil safety years were 291 years, significantly lower than those of other heavy metals, displaying that its ecological risk was relatively the highest. The total wet precipitation flux of water-soluble ions NH4+, Ca2+, NO3-, and SO42- accounted for （85.72 ±2.18）% of the wet precipitation flux of total ions, suggesting that their comprehensive impact on the ecological environment might have been higher. DIN wet deposition flux was mainly characterized by NH4+-N, which had a positive impact on the ecological environment in summer. SO42--S wet deposition flux was higher in summer, so its positive impact on the ecological environment was also greater. The scavenging effects of atmospheric precipitations to pollutants from the air were impacted by various factors, and the synergism effects of these factors could directly influence the scavenging mechanisms of precipitation to pollutants.

Viscolin-mediated antiapoptotic and neuroprotective effects in cortical neurons exposed to oxygen-glucose deprivation and rats subjected to transient focal cerebral ischemia.

OBJECTIVE: Previously, we have successfully purified and synthesized viscolin, an agent derived from Viscum coloratum extract, which has shown significant potential in the treatment of stroke. Our study aimed to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of viscolin. METHODS: We first assessed the cytotoxicity of viscolin on primary neuronal cultures and determined its antioxidant and radical scavenging properties. Subsequently, we identified the optimal dose-response of viscolin in protecting against glutamate-induced neurotoxicity. RESULTS: Our results demonstrated that viscolin at a concentration of 10 µM effectively reduced neuronal cell death up to 6 hours after glutamate-induced neurotoxicity. Additionally, we investigated the therapeutic window of opportunity and the potential of viscolin in preventing necrotic and apoptotic damage in cultured neurons exposed to oxygen glucose deprivation-induced neurotoxicity. Our findings showed that viscolin treatment significantly reduced DNA breakage, prevented the release of cytochrome c from mitochondria to cytosol, increased the expression of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2, decreased the expression of pro-apoptotic protein Bax, and reduced the number of TUNEL-positive cells. Additionally, our in vivo investigation demonstrated a reduction in brain infarction following middle cerebral artery occlusion. CONCLUSION: Viscolin has potential utility as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of stroke.