Development of a RNA-protein complex based smart drug delivery system for 9-hydroxycamptothecin.

Camptothecin (CPT) is a monoterpenoid indole alkaloid with a wide spectrum of anticancer activity. However, its application is hindered by poor solubility, lack of targeting specificity, and severe side effects. Structural derivatization of CPT and the development of suitable drug delivery systems are potential strategies for addressing these issues. In this study, we discovered that the protein Cytochrome P450 Family 1 Subfamily A Member 1 (CYP1A1) from Homo sapiens catalyzes CPT to yield 9-hydroxycamptothecin (9-HCPT), which exhibits increased water solubility and cytotoxicity. We then created a RNA-protein complex based drug delivery system with enzyme and pH responsiveness and improved the targeting and stability of the nanomedicine through protein module assembly. The subcellular localization of nanoparticles can be visualized using fluorescent RNA probes. Our results not only identified the protein CYP1A1 responsible for the structural derivatization of CPT to synthesize 9-HCPT but also offered potential strategies for enhancing the utilization of silk-based drug delivery systems in tumor therapy.

Nucleophilic hydrolysis of dichloroacetonitrile and trichloroacetonitrile disinfection byproducts by peroxymonosulfate: Kinetics and mechanisms.

In this work, it was found that peroxymonosulfate (PMS) could appreciably accelerate the transformation rates of dichloroacetonitrile (DCAN) and trichloracetonitrile (TCAN) in aqueous solutions, especially under alkaline pHs. The impact of reactive oxygen species scavengers (methyl alcohol for sulfate radical, tert-butyl alcohol for hydroxyl radical, and azide for singlet oxygen) and water matrices (chloride (Cl-), bicarbonate (HCO3-), and natural organic matter (NOM)) on DCAN and TCAN transformation by PMS is evaluated, revealing negligible effects. A nucleophilic hydrolysis pathway, as opposed to an oxidation process, was proposed for the transformation of DCAN and TCAN by PMS, supported by the hydrolyzable characteristics of these compounds and validated through density functional theory calculations. Kinetic analysis indicated that the transformation of DCAN and TCAN by PMS adhered to a second-order kinetic law, with higher reaction rates observed at elevated pH levels within the range of 7.0-10.0. Kinetic modeling incorporating the hydrolytic contributions of water, hydroxyl ion, and protonated and deprotonated PMS (i.e., HSO5- and SO52-) effectively fitted the experimental data. Species-specific second-order rate constants reveal that SO52- exhibited significantly higher reactivity towards DCAN ((1.69 ± 0.22) ×104 M-1h-1) and TCAN((6.06 ± 0.18) ×104 M-1h-1) compared to HSO5- ((2.14 ± 0.12) ×102 M-1h-1) for DCAN; and (1.378 ± 0.11) ×103 M-1h-1 for TCAN). Comparative analysis of DCAN and TCAN transformation efficiencies by four different oxidants indicated that PMS rivaled chlorine but falls short of hydrogen peroxide, with peroxydisulfate displaying negligible reactivity. Overall, this study uncovers the nucleophilic hydrolysis characteristics of PMS, supplementing its recognized role as an oxidant precursor or mild oxidant, and underscores its significant implications for environmental remediation.

Fabrication of Stable Liquid-like Wetting Buckled Surfaces as Bioinspired Antibiofouling Coatings by Using Silicon-Containing Block Copolymers.

Inspired by animals with a slippery epidermis, durable slippery antibiofouling coatings with liquid-like wetting buckled surfaces are successfully constructed in this study by combining dynamic-interfacial-release-induced buckling with self-assembled silicon-containing diblock copolymer (diBCP). The core diBCP material is polystyrene-block-poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PS-b-PDMS). Because silicon-containing polymers with intrinsic characters of low surface energy, they easily flow over and cover a surface after it has undergone controlled thermal treatment, generating a slippery wetting layer on which can eliminate polar interactions with biomolecules. Additionally, microbuckled patterns result in curved surfaces, which offer fewer points at which organisms can attach to the surface. Different from traditional slippery liquid-infused porous surfaces, the proposed liquid-like PDMS wetting layer, chemically bonded with PS, is stable and slippery but does not flow away. PS-b-PDMS diBCPs with various PDMS volume fractions are studied to compare the influence of PDMS segment length on antibiofouling performance. The surface characteristics of the diBCPs─ease of processing, transparency, and antibiofouling, anti-icing, and self-cleaning abilities─are examined under various conditions. Being able to fabricate ecofriendly silicon-based lubricant layers without needing to use fluorinated compounds and costly material precursors is an advantage in industrial practice.

Beat-to-Beat Blood Pressure Variability Within 24 Hours of Ischemic Stroke Onset: A Potential Predictor of Functional Prognosis.

BACKGROUND: Beat-to-beat blood pressure variability (BPV) is based on each heartbeat and represents a dynamic equilibrium process modulated by artery and cardiac involvement of pressure-receptive reflexes. To date, there remains a lack of prospective studies illustrating the clinical value of beat-to-beat BPV within 24 hours of acute ischemic stroke onset. METHODS AND RESULTS: This study prospectively monitored beat-to-beat blood pressure and heart rate in patients with acute ischemic stroke within 24 hours of onset using a noninvasive plethysmograph and calculated beat-to-beat BPV, heart rate variability, and the cross-correlation baroreflex sensitivity. A modified Rankin Scale score of ≥2 at 90 days was defined as an unfavorable prognosis. Multivariate logistic regression was performed, and the nomogram model was developed by adding the beat-to-beat BPV to the traditional model for predicting prognosis. Beat-to-beat BPV increased significantly in the unfavorable outcome group (P<0.05) compared with that in the favorable outcome group, whereas no difference was observed in beat-to-beat heart rate variability and cross-correlation baroreflex sensitivity between both groups (P>0.05). Furthermore, beat-to-beat BPV within 24 hours of acute ischemic stroke onset was independently associated with unfavorable outcome at 90 days (P<0.005). The addition of beat-to-beat BPV to the traditional model for predicting prognosis enhanced the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve from 0.816 to 0.830. CONCLUSIONS: Increased beat-to-beat BPV within 24 hours of acute ischemic stroke onset was independently associated with a poor prognosis at 90 days and may be a potential predictor for discriminating unfavorable prognosis.

Depressive symptoms of older adults with chronic diseases: the mediating roles of activities of daily living and economic burden of diseases.

Objective: To explore the mediating roles of activities of daily living (ADL) and economic burden of diseases in the relationship between chronic diseases and depressive symptoms of older adults. Methods: The data were sourced from China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). The number of chronic diseases, ADL, out-of-pocket medical expenses and the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) were selected as measuring indexes. Mediation analysis was conducted to explore the potential mediating roles of ADL and economic burden of diseases in the association between chronic diseases and depressive symptoms. Results: The number of chronic diseases, ADL, economic burden of diseases and depressive symptoms of older adults were significantly correlated with each other. ADL and economic burden of diseases individually mediated the relationship between the number of chronic diseases and depressive symptoms, accounting for 31.460% and 5.471% of the total effect, respectively. Additionally, ADL and economic burden of diseases demonstrated a chain mediating effect in this relationship, contributing to 0.759% of the total effect. Conclusion: The chain-mediated model effectively elucidated the mediating roles of ADL and economic burden of diseases in the association between chronic diseases and depressive symptoms among older adults. The study underscores the need for policymakers to focus attentively on the mental health of older adults with chronic diseases. Enhancing the capacity for ADL and strengthening social security to mitigate the economic burden of diseases are recommended strategies to alleviate depressive symptoms in older adults.

Anatomical-related factors and outcome of percutaneous short-term spinal cord stimulation electrode shift in patients with disorders of consciousness: a retrospective study.

Background: Disorders of consciousness (DoC) represent a spectrum of neurological conditions that pose significant treatment challenges. Percutaneous short-term spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has emerged as a promising experimental diagnostic treatment to assess and potentially improve consciousness levels. However, the effectiveness of this intervention is frequently compromised by the shift of electrodes, particularly in the cervical region, which can negatively affect therapeutic outcomes. Methods: This retrospective study aimed to study if electrodes shift in percutaneous short-term SCS in patients with DoC would affect the outcome. We analyzed the relationship between electrode shift length and patient outcome, as well as the correlation with various anatomical parameters, including the actual length of the cervical spine, linear length, spinal canal transverse diameter, spinal canal diameter, and C2 cone height, in a cohort of patients undergoing the procedure. Results: Our findings revealed that in patients with better outcome, there are significant less patient with electrode shift (p = 0.019). Further, a linear correlation was found between the length of electrode shift and patients' outcome (Rho = 0.583, p = 0.002), with longer shift lengths associated with poorer outcomes. Contrary to our expectations, there was no significant association between the measured anatomical parameters and the extent of electrode shift. However, a trend was found between the actual length of the cervical spine and the shift of the electrode (p = 0.098). Notably, the shorter spinal canal transverse diameter was found to be significantly associated with better outcome in patients with DoC receiving percutaneous short-term SCS (p = 0.033). Conclusion: These results highlight the clinical importance of electrode stability in the cervical region during SCS treatment for patients with DoC. Ensuring secure placement of electrodes may play a crucial role in enhancing patients' outcome and minimize postoperative complications. Given the lack of association with expected anatomical parameters, future research should investigate other factors that could impact electrode stability to optimize this therapeutic intervention.

FOXN2, identified as a novel biomarker in serum, modulates the transforming growth factor-beta signaling pathway through its interaction with partitioning defective 6 homolog alpha, contributing to the pathogenesis of gastric cancer.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Dysregulated expression of Forkhead Box N2 (FOXN2) has been detected in various cancer types. However, the underlying mechanisms by which FOXN2 contributes to the onset and progression of gastric cancer (GC) remain largely unexplored. This study aimed to elucidate the potential role of FOXN2 within GC, its downstream molecular mechanisms, and its feasibility as a novel serum biomarker for GC. METHODS: Tissue samples from GC patients and corresponding non-cancerous tissues were collected. Peripheral blood samples were obtained from GC patients and healthy controls. The expression of FOXN2 was determined using quantitative real-time PCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. The expression of FOXN2 in GC cells was modulated by transfection with small interfering RNA (siRNA) or the pcDNA 3.1 expression vector. Cell proliferation was assessed using the Cell Counting Kit-8 and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine incorporation assays. The migratory and invasive capacities of cells were evaluated by Transwell assays, apoptosis rates were measured by flow cytometry, and the expression of proliferative, apoptotic, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers were assessed by western blot analysis. RESULTS: FOXN2 was found to be overexpressed in the serum, tissues, and cells of GC, correlating with distant metastasis and TNM staging. FOXN2 demonstrated diagnostic value in differentiating GC patients from healthy individuals, with higher levels of FOXN2 being indicative of poorer survival rates. Silencing FOXN2 in vitro inhibited the proliferation, invasion, migration, and EMT of GC cells, while promoting apoptosis. FOXN2 was shown to regulate the transforming growth factor-beta (TGFß) receptor signaling pathway in GC cells via its interaction with Partitioning Defective 6 Homolog Alpha (PARD6A). CONCLUSION: In summary, our data suggest that FOXN2 acts as an oncogenic factor in GC, modulating the TGFß pathway by binding to PARD6A, thereby influencing gastric carcinogenesis. This study underscores the functional significance of FOXN2 as a potential serum biomarker and therapeutic target in GC.

Hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy plus camrelizumab and apatinib for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: There is limited information on combination of hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) and systemic therapy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (Ad-HCC). We aim to compare the efficacy and safety of HAIC plus camrelizumab (a PD-1 inhibitor) and apatinib (an VEGFR-2 inhibitor) versus camrelizumab and apatinib for Ad-HCC. METHODS: From April 2019 to October 2022, 416 patients with Ad-HCC who received either HAIC plus camrelizumab and apatinib (TRIPLET protocol, n = 207) or camrelizumab and apatinib (C-A protocol, n = 209) were reviewed retrospectively. The propensity score matching (PSM) was used to reduce selective bias. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were compared using the Kaplan-Meier method with the log-rank test. Cox regression analyses of independent prognostic factors were evaluated. RESULTS: After PSM 1:1, 109 patients were assigned to two groups. The median OS of not reached in the TRIPLET group was significantly longer than that of 19.9 months in the C-A group (p < 0.001), while in the TRIPLET group, the median PFS of 11.5 months was significantly longer than that of 9.6 months in the C-A group (p < 0.001). Multivariate analyses showed that the factors significantly affected the OS were CTP grade, tumor number > 3, and TRIPLET treatment (p < 0.001). Grade 3/4 adverse events occurred at a rate of 82.1% vs. 71.3% in TRIPLET and C-A groups, respectively. CONCLUSION: The TRIPLET protocol has promising survival benefits in the management of patients with Ad-HCC, with acceptable safety. TRAIL REGISTRATION: The study has been retrospectively registered at Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ( https://www.chictr.org.cn/ , ChiCTR2300075828).

Assessing the merits: an opinion on the effectiveness of simulation techniques in tumor subclonal reconstruction.

Summary: Neoplastic tumors originate from a single cell, and their evolution can be traced through lineages characterized by mutations, copy number alterations, and structural variants. These lineages are reconstructed and mapped onto evolutionary trees with algorithmic approaches. However, without ground truth benchmark sets, the validity of an algorithm remains uncertain, limiting potential clinical applicability. With a growing number of algorithms available, there is urgent need for standardized benchmark sets to evaluate their merits. Benchmark sets rely on in silico simulations of tumor sequence, but there are no accepted standards for simulation tools, presenting a major obstacle to progress in this field. Availability and implementation: All analysis done in the paper was based on publicly available data from the publication of each accessed tool.

Membranous nephropathy: pathogenesis and treatments.

Membranous nephropathy (MN), an autoimmune disease, can manifest at any age and is among the most common causes of nephrotic syndrome in adults. In 80% of cases, the specific etiology of MN remains unknown, while the remaining cases are linked to drug use or underlying conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus, hepatitis B virus, or malignancy. Although about one-third of patients may achieve spontaneous complete or partial remission with conservative management, another third face an elevated risk of disease progression, potentially leading to end-stage renal disease within 10 years. The identification of phospholipase A2 receptor as the primary target antigen in MN has brought about a significant shift in disease management and monitoring. This review explores recent advancements in the pathophysiology of MN, encompassing pathogenesis, clinical presentations, diagnostic criteria, treatment options, and prognosis, with a focus on emerging developments in pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies aimed at halting disease progression. By synthesizing the latest research findings and clinical insights, this review seeks to contribute to the ongoing efforts to enhance our understanding and management of this challenging autoimmune disorder.

Real space method for HAADF image simulation.

A new real space HAADF simulation method was described in detail and a Real Space- STEM software was developed based on the new simulation method. The algorithm of the real space method can quickly calculate and simulate the microstructure images of complex crystals. The Real Space-STEM software developed in this paper has the functions of HRTEM and HAADF image simulation based on the real space method. By using this software to simulate high-resolution images of representative crystal materials from each crystal system, the HAADF images are both accurate and efficient. The effect of STEM parameters on HAADF imaging has been discussed using simulation results.

N/O-Codoped Ultrathin Porous Biochar Derived from Casein for Fast Adsorption of Iodine.

The release of radioactive iodine into the environment poses a significant threat, as it can contaminate soil, water, and food chains, leading to detrimental effects on ecosystems and biodiversity. Hence, employing the adsorption method proves to be a simple yet effective approach for treating radioactive waste. N/O-codoped ultrathin porous biochar, synthesized from casein using NaHCO3 activation, emerges as a potential candidate for adsorption materials. The saturation level of I2 adsorption in 100 mg L-1 iodine-cyclohexane solution is 73 mg·g-1 at 20 min. The density functional theory (DFT) calculations and experiments attribute this phenomenon to the presence of graphite nitrogen (NG) and C-OH groups on the biochar surface. Furthermore, the pseudo-first-order model fits better with the experimental values, suggesting that the adsorption of iodine by the adsorbent is primarily physisorption-based. The Freundlich isotherm is suitable for iodine adsorption of biochar, owing to the abundance of adsorption sites within the porous structure, particularly at the edges, which enhance the adsorption activity. Significantly, the study highlights that NG adsorptive sites exhibit 1.5 times higher adsorption activity compared to C-OH adsorptive sites, underscoring the essential role of NG in iodine adsorption for electron transfer. Overall, these findings underscore the potential of N/O-codoped ultrathin porous biochar in effectively mitigating the presence of radioactive I2, showcasing its promise in addressing environmental challenges associated with radioactive contamination.

Carbonate Ester-Based Sodium Metal Battery with High-Capacity Retention at -50°C Enabled by Weak Solvents and Electrodeposited Anode.

Sodium metal batteries (SMBs) have received increasing attention due to the abundant sodium resources and high energy density, but suffered from the sluggish interfacial kinetic and unstable plating/stripping of sodium anode at low temperature, especially when matched with ester electrolytes. Here, we develop a stable ultra-low-temperature SMBs with high-capacity retention at -50°C in a weak solvated carbonate ester-based electrolyte, combined with an electrodeposited Na (Cu/Na) anode. The Cu/Na anode with electrochemically activated "deposited sodium" and stable inorganic-rich solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) was favor for the fast Na+ migration, therefore accelerating the interfacial kinetic process. As a result, the Cu/Na || NaCrO2 battery exhibited the highest capacity retention (compared to room-temperature capacity) in carbonate ester-based SMBs (98.05% at -25°C, 91.3% at -40°C, 87.9% at -50°C, respectively). The cyclic stability of 350 cycles at -25°C with a high energy efficiency of 96.15% and 70 cycles at -50°C can be achieved. Even in chill atmospheric environment with the fluctuant temperature, the battery can still operate over one month. This work provides a new opportunity for the development of low-temperature carbonate ester-based SMBs.

Pantothenate-encapsulated liposomes combined with exercise for effective inhibition of CRM1-mediated PKM2 translocation in Alzheimer's therapy.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative condition characterized by metabolic imbalances and neuroinflammation, posing a formidable challenge in medicine due to the lack of effective treatments. Despite considerable research efforts, a cure for AD remains elusive, with current therapies primarily focused on symptom management rather than addressing the disease's underlying causes. This study initially discerned, through Mendelian randomization analysis that elevating pantothenate levels significantly contributes to the prophylaxis of Alzheimer's disease. We explore the therapeutic potential of pantothenate encapsulated in liposomes (Pan@TRF@Liposome NPs), targeting the modulation of CRM1-mediated PKM2 nuclear translocation, a critical mechanism in AD pathology. Additionally, we investigate the synergistic effects of exercise, proposing a combined approach to AD treatment. Exercise-induced metabolic alterations share significant similarities with those associated with dementia, suggesting a potential complementary effect. The Pan@TRF@Liposome NPs exhibit notable biocompatibility, showing no liver or kidney toxicity in vivo, while demonstrating stability and effectiveness in modulating CRM1-mediated PKM2 nuclear translocation, thereby reducing neuroinflammation and neuronal apoptosis. The combined treatment of exercise and Pan@TRF@Liposome NP administration in an AD animal model leads to improved neurofunctional outcomes and cognitive performance. These findings highlight the nanoparticles' role as effective modulators of CRM1-mediated PKM2 nuclear translocation, with significant implications for mitigating neuroinflammation and neuronal apoptosis. Together with exercise, this dual-modality approach could offer new avenues for enhancing cognitive performance and neurofunctional outcomes in AD, marking a promising step forward in developing treatment strategies for this challenging disorder.

Survey of physicians' knowledge about pediatric nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in China.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate physicians' awareness and knowledge towards pediatric nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and their attitude toward change in nomenclature from NAFLD to metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) or metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in China. METHODS: The questionnaire survey contained five parts (characteristics of the participants, epidemiology, diagnosis, management of NAFLD, and attitudes toward the nomenclature of MAFLD/MASLD). The participants included 53 hepatologists, 88 gastroenterologists (GEs), 74 endocrinologists (ENDOs), 61 primary care physicians (PCPs), and 157 pediatricians across 31 municipalities, provinces and autonomous regions of China's mainland. RESULTS: Hepatologists saw the largest number of pediatric NAFLD patients annually (median 9 [range 1-20]), with the lowest number by PCPs (even notwithstanding one patient annually). The primary sources of pediatric NAFLD knowledge were acquired via guidelines. Hepatologists had the highest total knowledge score among all five types of physicians. Approximately one-third of nonspecialists (ENDOs and PCPs) considered liver biopsy necessary for pediatric NAFLD patients, and this percentage increased to half in specialists (hepatologists and GEs). For nonspecialists, the major barriers to the management of pediatric NAFLD were poor patient adherence to lifestyle modifications and lacking confidence in managing NAFLD. Above 90% physicians agreed to change the nomenclature NAFLD to MAFLD; however, they were not sure whether it could reduce the economic burden. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the epidemic of pediatric NAFLD in China, a significant knowledge gap remains in the identification, diagnosis, and treatment of pediatric NAFLD, particularly among frontline workers such as pediatricians and PCPs. More education programs should be carried out in the future.

MCA Parallel Anatomic Scanning MR Imaging-Guided Recanalization of a Chronic Occluded MCA by Endovascular Treatment.

Basi-parallel anatomic scanning has been widely used for assessing the vascular morphology of vertebral basilar arteries. Previous studies have demonstrated its efficacy in evaluating the morphology of the MCA, which we refer to as MCA parallel anatomic scanning MR imaging (MCPAS). In this study, we present our experience with the application of MCPAS in patients with MCA occlusion. Endovascular treatment was performed on the patients with intact MCA morphology visible in on MCPAS, with no intracranial hemorrhage, occlusion, or other complications observed. No severe stenosis or re-occlusion was observed at the 12-month postoperative follow-up. In conclusion, MCPAS is an effective method for assessing the outer contour of an occlusive MCA. Endovascular treatment can be considered a safe and efficient option for patients who show a favorable MCA through MCPAS assessment.

Photochemical transformation of liquid crystal monomers in simulated environmental media: Kinetics, mechanism, toxicity variation and QSAR modeling.

Liquid crystal monomers (LCMs) are a new class of emerging pollutants with high octanol-water partition coefficients; however, their transformation behavior and associated risk to environments with high organic matter content has rarely been reported. In this study, we investigated the photodegradation kinetics, mechanism, and toxicity variation of 23 LCMs on leaf wax models (e.g., organic solvents methanol and n-hexane). The order of the photolysis rates of these LCMs were biphenylethyne LCMs > phenylbenzoate LCMs > diphenyl/terphenyl LCMs under simulated sunlight, while the phenylcyclohexane LCMs were resistant to photodegradation. The phenylbenzoate and biphenylethyne LCMs mainly undergo direct photolysis, while the diphenyl/terphenyl LCMs mainly undergo self-sensitized photolysis. The main photolysis pathways are the cleavage of ester bonds for phenylbenzoate LCMs, the addition, oxidation and cleavage of alkynyl groups for biphenylethyne LCMs, and the cleavage/oxidation of chains attached to phenyls and the benzene ring opening for diphenyl/terphenyls LCMs. Most photolysis products remained toxic to aquatic organisms to some degree. Additionally, two quantitative structure-activity relationship models for predicting kobs of LCMs in methanol and n-hexane were developed, and employed to predict kobs of 93 LCMs to fill the kobs data gap in systems mimicking leaf surfaces. These results can be helpful for evaluating the fate and risk of LCMs in environments with high content of organic phase.

Assessment of the Biocompatibility Ability and Differentiation Capacity of Mesenchymal Stem Cells on Biopolymer/Gold Nanocomposites.

This study assessed the biocompatibility of two types of nanogold composites: fibronectin-gold (FN-Au) and collagen-gold (Col-Au). It consisted of three main parts: surface characterization, in vitro biocompatibility assessments, and animal models. To determine the structural and functional differences between the materials used in this study, atomic force microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry were used to investigate their surface topography and functional groups. The F-actin staining, proliferation, migration, reactive oxygen species generation, platelet activation, and monocyte activation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) cultured on the FN-Au and Col-Au nanocomposites were investigated to determine their biological and cellular behaviors. Additionally, animal biocompatibility experiments measured capsule formation and collagen deposition in female Sprague-Dawley rats. The results showed that MSCs responded better on the FN-Au and Col-AU nanocomposites than on the control (tissue culture polystyrene) or pure substances, attributed to their incorporation of an optimal Au concentration (12.2 ppm), which induced significant surface morphological changes, nano topography cues, and better biocompatibility. Moreover, neuronal, endothelial, bone, and adipose tissues demonstrated better differentiation ability on the FN-Au and Col-Au nanocomposites. Nanocomposites have a crucial role in tissue engineering and even vascular grafts. Finally, MSCs were demonstrated to effectively enhance the stability of the endothelial structure, indicating that they can be applied as promising alternatives to clinics in the future.

Automatic Segmentation of Type A Aortic Dissection on Computed Tomography Images Using Deep Learning Approach.

PURPOSE: Type A aortic dissection (TAAD) is a life-threatening aortic disease. The tear involves the ascending aorta and progresses into the separation of the layers of the aortic wall and the occurrence of a false lumen. Accurate segmentation of TAAD could provide assistance for disease assessment and guidance for clinical treatment. METHODS: This study applied nnU-Net, a state-of-the-art biomedical segmentation network architecture, to segment contrast-enhanced CT images and quantify the morphological features for TAAD. CT datasets were acquired from 24 patients with TAAD. Manual segmentation and annotation of the CT images was used as the ground-truth. Two-dimensional (2D) nnU-Net and three-dimensional (3D) nnU-Net architectures with Dice- and cross entropy-based loss functions were utilized to segment the true lumen (TL), false lumen (FL), and intimal flap on the images. Four-fold cross validation was performed to evaluate the performance of the two nnU-Net architectures. Six metrics, including accuracy, precision, recall, Intersection of Union, Dice similarity coefficient (DSC), and Hausdorff distance, were calculated to evaluate the performance of the 2D and 3D nnU-Net algorithms in TAAD datasets. Aortic morphological features from both 2D and 3D nnU-Net algorithms were quantified based on the segmented results and compared. RESULTS: Overall, 3D nnU-Net architectures had better performance in TAAD CT datasets, with TL and FL segmentation accuracy up to 99.9%. The DSCs of TLs and FLs based on the 3D nnU-Net were 88.42% and 87.10%. For the aortic TL and FL diameters, the FL area calculated from the segmentation results of the 3D nnU-Net architecture had smaller relative errors (3.89-6.80%), compared to the 2D nnU-Net architecture (relative errors: 4.35-9.48%). CONCLUSIONS: The nnU-Net architectures may serve as a basis for automatic segmentation and quantification of TAAD, which could aid in rapid diagnosis, surgical planning, and subsequent biomechanical simulation of the aorta.

Electrolyte Design Enables Rechargeable LiFePO4/Graphite Batteries from -80°C to 80°C.

Lithium iron phosphate (LFP)/graphite batteries have long dominated the energy storage battery market and are anticipated to become the dominant technology in the global power battery market. However, the poor fast-charging capability and low-temperature performance of LFP/graphite batteries seriously hinder their further spread. These limitations are strongly associated with the interfacial Li-ion transport. Here we report a wide-temperature-range ester-based electrolyte that exhibits high ionic conductivity, fast interfacial kinetics and excellent film-forming ability by regulating the anion chemistry of Li salt. The interfacial barrier of the battery is quantitatively unraveled by employing three-electrode system and distribution of relaxation time technique. The superior role of the proposed electrolyte in preventing Li0 plating and sustaining homogeneous and stable interphases are also systematically investigated. The LFP/graphite cells exhibit rechargeability in an ultrawide temperature range of -80°C to 80°C and outstanding fast-charging capability without compromising lifespan. Specially, the practical LFP/graphite pouch cells achieve 80.2% capacity retention after 1200 cycles (2 C) and 10-min charge to 89% (5 C) at 25°C and provides reliable power even at -80°C.