Discrepancy on the flavor compound affect the quality of Taiping Houkui tea from different production regions.

Taiping Houkui (TPHK) is prevalent green tea in China, its flavor quality is significantly influenced by different production regions. However, the key flavor compounds responsible for these discrepancies remain unclearly. Here, TPHK samples were produced from fresh leaves of 'Shidacha 2' cultivar planted in 14 distinct production regions. In 14 TPHK samples, a total of 33 non-volatile compounds were identified and quantified. Partial least-squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) reveal that theanine and glutamate were the main umami compounds, caffeine imparted with bitterness, which collectively contributed to the variation in the taste flavor of TPHK across different production regions. Furthermore, the profiles of 51 volatile compounds were determined, integrated PLS-DA with odor activity values of volatiles indicated that linalool (165.7-888.5) and geraniol (11.9-141.4) affecting the floral aroma of TPHK among different production regions. Our findings revealed the critical compounds that contributed to the effect of production regions on flavor quality of TPHK.

Clinical Application of Polygenic Risk Score in IgA Nephropathy.

Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have identified 30 independent genetic variants associated with IgA nephropathy (IgAN). A genetic risk score (GRS) represents the number of risk alleles carried and thus captures an individual's genetic risk. However, whether and which polygenic risk score crucial for the evaluation of any potential personal or clinical utility on risk and prognosis are still obscure. We constructed different GRS models based on different sets of variants, which were top single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) reported in the previous GWASs. The case-control GRS analysis included 3365 IgAN patients and 8842 healthy individuals. The association between GRS and clinical variability, including age at diagnosis, clinical parameters, Oxford pathology classification, and kidney prognosis was further evaluated in a prospective cohort of 1747 patients. Three GRS models (15 SNPs, 21 SNPs, and 55 SNPs) were constructed after quality control. The patients with the top 20% GRS had 2.42-(15 SNPs, p = 8.12 × 10-40), 3.89-(21 SNPs, p = 3.40 × 10-80) and 3.73-(55 SNPs, p = 6.86 × 10-81) fold of risk to develop IgAN compared to the patients with the bottom 20% GRS, with area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.59, 0.63, and 0.63 in group discriminations, respectively. A positive correlation between GRS and microhematuria, mesangial hypercellularity, segmental glomerulosclerosis and a negative correlation on the age at diagnosis, body mass index (BMI), mean arterial pressure (MAP), serum C3, triglycerides can be observed. Patients with the top 20% GRS also showed a higher risk of worse prognosis for all three models (1.36, 1.42, and 1.36 fold of risk) compared to the remaining 80%, whereas 21 SNPs model seemed to show a slightly better fit in prediction. Collectively, a higher burden of risk variants is associated with earlier disease onset and a higher risk of a worse prognosis. This may be informational in translating knowledge on IgAN genetics into disease risk prediction and patient stratification. Supplementary Information: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43657-023-00138-6.

Combined Genetic Association and Differed Expression Analysis of UBE2L3 Uncovers a Genetic Regulatory Role of (Immuno)proteasome in IgA Nephropathy.

Introduction: IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is a leading cause of end-stage renal disease. The exact pathogenesis of IgAN is not well defined, but some genetic studies have led to a novel discovery that the (immuno)proteasome probably plays an important role in IgAN. Methods: We firstly analyzed the association of variants in the UBE2L3 region with susceptibility to IgAN in 3,495 patients and 9,101 controls, and then analyzed the association between lead variant and clinical phenotypes in 1,803 patients with regular follow-up data. The blood mRNA levels of members of the ubiquitin-proteasome system including UBE2L3 were analyzed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 53 patients and 28 healthy controls. The associations between UBE2L3 and the expression levels of genes involved in Gd-IgA1 production were also explored. Results: The rs131654 showed the most significant association signal in UBE2L3 region (OR: 1.10, 95% CI: 1.04-1.16, p = 2.29 × 10-3), whose genotypes were also associated with the levels of Gd-IgA1 (p = 0.04). The rs131654 was observed to exert cis-eQTL effects on UBE2L3 in various tissues and cell types, particularly in immune cell types in multiple databases. The UBE2L3, LUBAC, and proteasome subunits were highly expressed in patients compared with healthy controls. High expression levels of UBE2L3 were not only associated with higher proteinuria (r = 0.34, p = 0.01) and lower eGFR (r = -0.28, p = 0.04), but also positively correlated with the gene expression of LUBAC and other proteasome subunits. Additionally, mRNA expression levels of UBE2L3 were also positively correlated with IL-6 and RELA, but negatively correlated with the expression levels of the key enzyme in the process of glycosylation including C1GALT1 and C1GALT1C1. Conclusion: In conclusion, by combined genetic association and differed expression analysis of UBE2L3, our data support a role of genetically conferred dysregulation of the (immuno)proteasome in regulating galactose-deficient IgA1 in the development of IgAN.

One-pot hydrothermal synthesis of silicon, nitrogen co-doped carbon dots for enhancing enzyme activity of acid phosphatase (ACP) to dopamine and for cell imaging.

Developing water-soluble nanomaterials with high photoluminescence emission and high yield for biological analysis and imaging is urgently needed. Herein, water-soluble blue emitting silicon and nitrogen co-doped carbon dots (abbreviated as Si-CDs) of a high photoluminescence quantum yield of 80 % were effectively prepared with high yield rate (59.1 %) via one-step hydrothermal treatment of N-[3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl]ethylenediamine (DAMO) and trans-aconitic acid. Furthermore, the Si-CDs demonstrate environmental robustness, photo-stability and biocompatibility. Given the importance of the potentially abnormal levels of acid phosphatase (ACP) in cancer diagnosis, developing a reliable and sensitive ACP measurement method is of significance for clinical research. The Si-CDs unexpectedly promote the catalytic oxidation of ACP on dopamine (DA) to polydopamine under acidic conditions through the produced reactive oxygen species (ROS). Correspondingly, a fluorescence response strategy using Si-CDs as the dual functions of probes and promoting enzyme activity of ACP on catalyzing DA was constructed to sensitively determine ACP. The quantitative analysis of ACP displayed a linear range of 0.1-60 U/L with a detection limit of 0.056 U/L. The accurate detection of ACP was successfully achieved in human serum through recovery tests. As a satisfactory fluorescent probe, Si-CDs were successfully applied to fluorescent imaging of A549 cells in cytoplasmic with long-term and safe staining. The Si-CDs have the dual properties of outstanding fluorescent probes and auxiliary oxidase activity, indicating their great potential in multifunctional applications.

Unlocking fungal quorum sensing: Oxylipins and yeast interactions enhance secondary metabolism in monascus.

Exploring the symbiotic potential between fungal and yeast species, this study investigates the co-cultivation dynamics of Monascus, a prolific producer of pharmacologically relevant secondary metabolites, and Wickerhamomyce anomalous. The collaborative interaction between these microorganisms catalyzed a substantial elevation in the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, prominently Monacolin K and natural pigments. Central to our discoveries was the identification and enhanced production of oxylipins (13S-hydroxyoctadecadienoic acid，13S-HODE), putative quorum-sensing molecules, within the co-culture environment. Augmentation with exogenous oxylipins not only boosted Monacolin K production by over half but also mirrored morphological adaptations in Monascus, affecting both spores and mycelial structures. This augmentation was paralleled by a significant upregulation in the transcriptional activity of genes integral to the Monacolin K biosynthetic pathway, as well as genes implicated in pigment and spore formation. Through elucidating the interconnected roles of quorum sensing, G-protein-coupled receptors, and the G-protein-mediate signaling pathway, this study provides a comprehensive view of the molecular underpinnings facilitating these metabolic enhancements. Collectively, our findings illuminate the profound influence of Wickerhamomyces anomalous co-culture on Monascus purpureus, advocating for oxylipins as a pivotal quorum-sensing mechanism driving the observed symbiotic benefits.

Preparation and performance evaluation of a novel orthodontic adhesive incorporating composite dimethylaminohexadecyl methacrylate-Polycaprolactone fibers.

This study addressed enamel demineralization, a common complication in fixed orthodontic treatment, by evaluating a novel orthodontic adhesive with DMAHDM-PCL composite fibers. These fibers, produced through electrospinning, were incorporated into orthodontic adhesive to create experimental formulations at different concentrations and a control group. The study assessed antimicrobial properties, biosafety, and mechanical characteristics. New orthodontic adhesive exhibited significant bacteriostatic effects, reducing bacterial biofilm activity and concentrations. Incorporating 1% and 3% DMAHDM-PCL did not affect cytocompatibility. Animal tests confirmed no inflammatory irritation. Shear bond strength and adhesive residual index results indicated that antimicrobial fibers didn't impact bonding ability. In conclusion, orthodontic adhesives with 3% DMAHDM-PCL fibers are potential antimicrobial bonding materials, offering a comprehensive solution to enamel demineralization in orthodontic patients.

Hepatitis B Virus Status and Clinical Outcomes in IgA Nephropathy.

Introduction: Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) has been reported to coexist with hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Despite the clinical significance of this association, there is a lack of comprehensive research investigating the impact of various common conditions following HBV infection and the potential influence of anti-HBV therapy on the progression of IgAN. Methods: We investigated 3 distinct states of HBV infection, including chronic HBV infection, resolved HBV infection, and the deposition of hepatitis B antigens in renal tissue, in a follow-up database of 1961 patients with IgAN. IgAN progression was defined as a loss of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) >40%. Multivariable cause-specific hazards models to analyze the relationship between HBV states and IgAN progression. Results: Chronic HBV infection was identified as an independent risk factor for IgAN progression, supported by both prematching analysis (hazard ratio [HR], 1.61; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.06-2.44; P = 0.024) and propensity-score matching analysis (HR, 1.74; 95% CI 1.28-2.37; P < 0.001). Conversely, resolved HBV infection showed no significant association with IgAN progression (HR, 1.01; 95% CI 0.67-1.52; P = 0.969). Moreover, the presence of HBV deposition in the kidneys and the utilization of anti-HBV therapy did not appear to be significant risk factors for renal outcomes (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Chronic HBV infection is an independent risk factor for IgAN progression, whereas resolved HBV infection is not. In patients with IgAN, management of concurrent chronic HBV infection should be enhanced. The presence of HBV deposition in the kidneys and the use of anti-HBV medications do not impact the kidney disease progression in patients with IgAN with concurrent HBV infection.

Therapeutic Potential of Fucoidan in Alleviating Histamine-Induced Liver Injury: Insights from Mice Studies.

Histamine, a bioactive component in certain foods such as Huangjiu has been associated with liver injury and disrupted intestinal balance. This study explored the potential therapeutic effects of fucoidan (FCD) in mitigating histamine-induced imbalances in mice. We found that FCD mitigated liver injury, reducing transaminases, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Histological improvements included decreased cell infiltration and necrosis. FCD restored tight junction proteins and suppressed inflammation-related genes. Western blot analysis revealed FCD's impact on TGF-ß1, p-AKT, AKT, CYP2E1, Grp78, NLRP3, Cas-1, and GSDMD. Gut LPS levels decreased with FCD. Gut microbiota analysis showed FCD's modulation effect, reducing Firmicutes and increasing Bacteroides. FCD demonstrates potential in alleviating histamine-induced liver injury, regulating inflammation, and influencing gut microbiota. Further research exploring higher dosages and additional parameters is warranted.

Ultrafine nickel-rhodium nanoparticles anchored on two-dimensional vanadium carbide for high performance hydrous hydrazine decomposition at mild conditions.

The development of heterogeneous supported nanocatalysts with a high kinetics combined with low cost is off importance but remains still challenged for hydrazine hydrate served as a promising hydrogen storage material. Herein, by virtue of surficial functional groups, ultrafine NiRh NPs were monodispersed on the two-dimensional V2C surface via a conventional wet chemical co-reduction. The optimized NiRh/V2C system demonstrates an excellent catalytic performance toward selectively catalyzing dehydrogenation of hydrazine hydrate, affording 100% H2 selectivity with the turnover frequency (TOF) value of 987.5 h-1 at 323 K. Such an enhancement is mainly attributed to synergistic effect of nanosystem, which will optimize local surface energy and promote electron transfer in NiRh/V2C system, thereby improving the kinetic selectivity of catalytic hydrazine hydrate decomposition. This work has provided a facile strategy for developing nanocatalysts with high kinetics that could enable huge industrial applications in the future.

Harnessing Nanochaperone-Mediated Autophagy for Selective Clearance of Pathogenic Tau Protein in Alzheimer's Disease.

Accumulation of pathological tau is a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD), which correlates more closely with cognitive impairment than does the amyloid-ß (Aß) burden. Autophagy is a powerful process for the clearance of toxic proteins including aberrant tau. However, compromised autophagy is demonstrated in neurodegeneration including AD, and current autophagy inducers remain enormously challenging due to inability of restoring autophagy pathway and lack of targeting specificity. Here, pathogenic tau-specific autophagy based on customized nanochaperone is developed for AD treatment. In this strategy, the nanochaperone can selectively bind to pathogenic tau and maintain tau homeostasis, thereby ensuring microtubule stability which is important for autophagy pathway. Meanwhile, the bound pathogenic tau can be sequestered in autophagosomes by in situ autophagy activation of nanochaperone. Consequently, autophagosomes wrapping with pathogenic tau are able to be trafficked along the stabilized microtubule to achieve successful fusion with lysosomes, resulting in the enhancement of autophagic flux and pathologic tau clearance. After treatment with this nanochaperone-mediated autophagy strategy, the tau burden, neuron damages, and cognitive deficits of AD mice are significantly alleviated in the brain. Therefore, this work represents a promising candidate for AD-targeted therapy and provides new insights into future design of anti-neurodegeneration drugs.

Co-Assembled Nanoparticles toward Multi-Target Combinational Therapy of Alzheimer's Disease by Making Full Use of Molecular Recognition and Self-Assembly.

The complex pathologies in Alzheimer's disease (AD) severely limit the effectiveness of single-target pharmic interventions, thus necessitating multi-pronged therapeutic strategies. While flexibility is essentially demanded in constructing such multi-target systems, for achieving optimal synergies and also accommodating the inherent heterogeneity within AD. Utilizing the dynamic reversibility of supramolecular strategy for conferring sufficient tunability in component substitution and proportion adjustment, amphiphilic calixarenes are poised to be a privileged molecular tool for facilely achieving function integration. Herein, taking ß-amyloid (Aß) fibrillation and oxidative stress as model combination pattern, a supramolecular multifunctional integration is proposed by co-assembling guanidinium-modified calixarene with ascorbyl palmitate and loading dipotassium phytate within calixarene cavity. Serial pivotal events can be simultaneously addressed by this versatile system, including 1) inhibition of Aß production and aggregation, 2) disintegration of Aß fibrils, 3) acceleration of Aß metabolic clearance, and 4) regulation of oxidative stress, which is verified to significantly ameliorate the cognitive impairment of 5×FAD mice, with reduced Aß plaque content, neuroinflammation, and neuronal apoptosis. Confronted with the extremely intricate clinical realities of AD, the strategy presented here exhibits ample adaptability for necessary alterations on combinations, thereby may immensely expedite the advancement of AD combinational therapy through providing an exceptionally convenient platform.

Interaction of Cyclodextrins with Amphiphilic Alternating Cooligomers Possessing the Dense Triazole Backbone.

The interaction of cyclodextrins (CDs) with structure-controlled polymers is expected to provide significant insights into macromolecular recognition. However, the interaction of CDs with structure-controlled polymers has been an underexamined issue of investigation. Herein, alternating amphiphilic cooligomers (oligoCnAH, where n denotes the carbon number of alkyl groups; n = 4, 8, and 12) were synthesized by copper(I)-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition polymerization of heterodimers of 4-azido-5-hexynoic acid (AH) derivatives carrying N-alkylamide and t-butyl (tBu) ester side chains, followed by hydrolysis of the tBu ester, to study the interaction of CDs with oligoCnAH by 1H NMR, nuclear Overhauser effect spectroscopy, and pulse-field-gradient spin-echo NMR. These NMR studies indicated that αCD interacted with oligoC4AH, αCD and ßCD interacted with oligoC8AH, and all CDs interacted with oligoC12AH. Based on the equilibrium models proposed, the binding constants were evaluated for the binary mixtures, which showed interaction. Comparing the interactions of the CDs/oligoC12AH binary mixtures with those of the binary mixtures of CDs and alternating copolymers of sodium maleate and dodecyl vinyl ether (polyC12M), it is concluded that oligoC12AH forms less stable micelles than does polyC12M presumably because of the lower molecular weight, the hydrophilic amide groups in the side chain, and the longer interval between neighboring C12 groups in oligoC12AH.

KRT80 Promotes Lung Adenocarcinoma Progression and Serves as a Substrate for VCP.

Background: Keratin 80(KRT80) encodes a type II intermediate filament protein, known for maintaining cell integrity of cells and its involvement in the tumorigenesis and progression of various cancers. However, comprehensive research on its relevance to lung adenocarcinoma remains limited. Methods: In this study, we utilized multiple databases to investigate the transcriptional expression of KRT80 and its correlation with clinicopathological features. A range of assays, including the Cell Counting Kit 8 assay, colony formation assay, cell migration assay, and flow cytometry, were employed to elucidate the impact of KRT80 on the malignant behavior of lung adenocarcinoma. Immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry were also used to identify putative genes interacting with KRT80. Results: The expression of KRT80 was elevated in lung adenocarcinoma and patients with high levels of KRT80 expression had poor clinical outcomes. Silencing KRT80 suppressed cell viability, and migration, while overexpression had the opposite effect. In addition, Immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry revealed an interaction between KRT80 and valosin-containing protein (VCP), with VCP knockdown reducing the stability of KRT80 protein. Overexpression of KRT80 mitigated the inhibitory effect of VCP knockdown to some extent. Conclusion: Our findings collectively suggest that KRT80 is a promising diagnostic and prognostic indicator for lung adenocarcinoma. Additionally, the interaction between KRT80 and VCP plays a crucial role in the progression of lung adenocarcinoma, which implies that KRT80 is a promising therapeutic target.

Electrochemical Ni-Catalyzed Decarboxylative C(sp3 )-N Cross-Electrophile Coupling.

A new electrochemical transformation is presented that enables chemists to couple simple alkyl carboxylic acid derivatives with an electrophilic amine reagent to construct C(sp3 )-N bond. The success of this reaction hinges on the merging of cooperative electrochemical reduction with nickel catalysis. The chemistry exhibits a high degree of practicality, showcasing its wide applicability with 1°, 2°, 3° carboxylic acids and remarkable compatibility with diverse functional groups, even in the realm of late-stage functionalization. Furthermore, extensive mechanistic studies have unveiled the engagement of alkyl radicals and iminyl radicals; and elucidated the multifaceted roles played by i Pr2 O, Ni catalyst, and electricity.

Effect of Breathing Meditation Training on Nursing Work Quality, Occurrence Risk of Adverse Events, and Attention Level of Operating Room Nurses.

Objective: To explore the effect of breathing meditation training on nursing work quality, occurrence risk of adverse events, and attention level of operating room nurses. Methods: Taking the starting time of breathing meditation training of operating room nurses in our hospital in July 2020 as the dividing line, operating room nurses who implemented routine management from April 2020 to June 2020 were selected as the control group (n=30), and operating room nurses who carried out breathing meditation training from July 2020 to September 2020 were included in the intervention group (n=30). The emotional state [Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA) score, Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) score], Mindfulness Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS) score, electrocardiogram indicators (blood pressure, pulse, and respiration), electroencephalogram indicators (SMR wave, ß wave, and θ wave EEG frequency), attention level (attention quotient, visual attention, and auditory attention), nursing work quality (health education, theoretical knowledge, nursing operation, and operating room management) and the number of reported adverse events were compared between the two groups before and after training. Results: After breathing meditation training, the intervention group's Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA) and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD) scores were significantly reduced (P < .05), while the Mindfulness Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS) score was significantly increased (P < .05). ). In addition, blood pressure and respiratory rate were reduced in the intervention group (P < .05), with significant differences compared with the control group (P < .05). The SMR waves and beta waves in the intervention group increased (P < .05), while theta waves decreased (P < .05). Attention quotient, visual attention and auditory attention scores were improved in the intervention group compared with the control group (P < .05). The scores of health education, theoretical knowledge, nursing operations and operating room management of the intervention group after training were higher than those of the control group (P < .05). The intervention group reported a lower number of adverse events than the control group (74.42% vs. 25.58%). The application of breathing meditation training in special training for operating room nurses can effectively relieve negative emotions, enhance mindfulness scores, reduce blood pressure and respiratory rate, regulate brain wave frequency, improve attention status and quality of nursing work, and reduce the risk of adverse events. These outcomes may have a positive impact on improving the quality of nursing practice and patient care in the operating room. For operating room nurses, the negative emotional stress caused by sustained high levels of mental concentration may affect work efficiency and the entire surgical process. Breathing meditation training can enhance nurses' emotional resilience, thereby improving the efficiency and safety of operating room care. Conclusion: The application of breathing meditation training in the special training of operating room nurses can effectively alleviate negative emotions, enhance the mindfulness score, reduce blood pressure and respiratory rate, regulate brain wave frequency, improve the attention state and nursing work quality, and reduce the occurrence risk of adverse events. Future research should conduct longitudinal studies to evaluate the long-term effects of breathing meditation training on the quality of nursing work and the prevention of adverse events. Additionally, research could explore advanced neuroimaging techniques to gain structural insights, integrate meditation into existing training programs, tailor interventions for different healthcare settings, assess patient outcomes, explore technology-assisted meditation, and investigate interprofessional collaboration. Through these pathways, a more complete understanding of the impact and best integration of breath meditation in healthcare settings can be achieved, providing valuable insights into improving the well-being of healthcare professionals and potentially overall patient care and satisfaction.

Controlled Refolding of Denatured IL-12 Using In Situ Antigen-Capturing Nanochaperone Remarkably Reduces the Systemic Toxicity and Enhances Cancer Immunotherapy.

Cytokines are powerful in cancer immunotherapy, however, their therapeutic potential is limited by the severe systemic toxicity. Here a potent strategy to reduce the toxicity of systemic cytokine therapy by delivering its denatured form using a finely designed nanochaperone, is described. It is demonstrated that even if the denatured protein cargos are occasionally released under normal physiological conditions they are still misfolded, while can effectively refold into native states and release to function in tumor microenvironment. Consequently, the systemic toxicity of cytokines is nearly completely overcome. Moreover, an immunogenic cell death (ICD)-inducing chemotherapeutic is further loaded and delivered to tumor using this nanochaperone to trigger the release of tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) that are subsequently captured in situ by nanochaperone and then reflows into lymph nodes (LNs) to promote antigen cross-presentation. This optimized personalized nanochaperone-vaccine demonstrates unprecedented suppressive effects against large, advanced tumors, and in combination with immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy results in a significant abscopal effect and inhibition of postoperative tumor recurrence and metastasis. Hence, this approach provides a simple and universal delivery strategy to reduce the systemic toxicities of cytokines, as well as provides a robust personalized cancer vaccination platform, which may find wide applications in cancer immunotherapy.

A retrospective study on improving the accuracy of radiotherapy for patients with breast cancer with lymph node metastasis using Styrofoam.

BACKGROUND: To retrospectively analyze the accuracy of radiotherapy using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), Styrofoam fixation, and breast bracket fixation in the chest wall target area and supraclavicular lymphatic drainage area (supraclavicular target area) of patients with breast cancer.and compare the setting efficiency and comfort satisfaction. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 65 patients with postoperative lymphatic metastasis of breast cancer, including 36 cases of Styrofoam fixation and 29 cases of breast bracket fixation, were recruited from March 2021 to August 2022 and retrospectively analyzed. All the patients underwent CBCT scans weekly, and the setup errors of the chest wall and supraclavicular target volume were compared and recorded. The planning target volume (PTV) margins of the two groups were calculated using the correlation MPTV = 2.5Σ + 0.7σ. The setup time and comfort satisfaction scores of the two groups were recorded and analyzed. The correlations among errors in each direction were analyzed using the Pearson correlation analysis. RESULTS: There was a significant difference in the left-right direction (X) axis of the chest wall target area between the Styrofoam and breast bracket groups (1.59 ± 1.47 mm vs. 2.05 ± 1.64 mm, P = 0.012). There were statistical differences in the ventrodorsal direction (Z) and bed angle of the supraclavicular target area, the data were (1.36 ± 1.27 mm vs. 1.75 ± 1.55 mm, P = 0.046; 0.47 ± 0.47° vs. 0.66 ± 0.59°, P = 0.006, respectively). In the X, Y, and Z directions, the respective PTV margins of the two groups in the chest wall target area were 5.01 mm, 5.99 mm, and 5.47 mm in the Styrofoam group, while those in the breast bracket group were 6.10 mm, 6.34 mm, and 6.10 mm, respectively. Moreover, the PTV margins of the supraclavicular target in the three directions were 3.69 mm, 3.86 mm, and 4.28 mm in the Styrofoam group, while those in the breast bracket group were 3.99 mm, 3.72 mm, and 5.45 mm, respectively. The setup time of the two groups was 3.4 ± 1.1 min and 5.5 ± 3.1 min (P = 0.007). The subjective comfort satisfaction scores of the two groups were 27.50 ± 1.24 and 25.44 ± 1.23 (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The application of Styrofoam fixation in radiotherapy of breast cancer in the supraclavicular lymph node area has several advantages as compared to breast bracket fixation, including higher positioning accuracy, smaller external expansion boundary, improved work efficiency, and patients' comfort, which might provide a reference for clinical work.

Structural characterization of lignin from the green pretreatments for co-producing xylo-oligosaccharides and glucose: Toward full biomass utilization.

Three green non-enzymatic catalysis pretreatments (NECPs) including autohydrolysis, subcritical CO2-assisted seawater autohydrolysis, and inorganic salt catalysis were utilized to simultaneously produce xylo-oligosaccharides (XOS), glucose, and cellulolytic enzyme lignin (CEL) from sugarcane bagasse (SCB). The yield of XOS in all three NECPs was over 50 % with a competitive glucose yield of enzymatic hydrolysis. And the effects of different pretreatments on the chemical structure and composition of CEL samples were also investigated. The pretreatments significantly increased the thermal stability, yield, and purity of the CEL samples. Moreover, the net yield of lignin was 58.3 % with lignin purity was 98.9 % in the autohydrolysis system. Furthermore, there was a decrease in the molecular weight of CEL samples as the pretreatment intensity increased. And the original lignin structural units sustained less damage during the NECPs, due to the cleavage of the ß-O-4 bonds dominating lignin degradation. Meanwhile, these pretreatments increased the phenolic-OH in CEL samples, making the lignin more reactive, and enhancing its subsequent modification and utilization. Collectively, the described techniques have demonstrated practical significance for the coproduction of XOS and glucose, and lignin, providing a promising strategy for full utilization of biomass.

Melatonin alleviates di-butyl phthalate (DBP)-induced ferroptosis of mouse leydig cells via inhibiting Sp2/VDAC2 signals.

As one of the endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), dibutyl phthalate (DBP) has been extensively used in industry. DBP has been shown to cause damage to Leydig cells, yet its underlying mechanism remains elusive. In this study, we show that DBP induces ferroptosis of mouse Leydig cells via upregulating the expression of Sp2, a transcription factor. Also, Sp2 is identified to promote the transcription of Vdac2 gene by binding to its promoter and subsequently involved in DBP-induced ferroptosis of Leydig cells. In addition, DBP is proved to induce ferroptosis via inducing oxidative stress, while inhibition of oxidative stress by melatonin alleviates DBP-induced ferroptosis and upregulation of Sp2 and VDAC2. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that melatonin can alleviate DBP-induced ferroptosis of mouse Leydig cells via inhibiting oxidative stress-triggered Sp2/VDAC2 signals.