Predictors of functioning in treatment-resistant schizophrenia: the role of negative symptoms and neurocognition.

Introduction: Predictors of functioning are well-studied in schizophrenia, but much less so in treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS). In this study, we aim to investigate contributions of schizophrenia symptom domains and neurocognition to predict functioning in a TRS population (n = 146). Methods: Participants were assessed on the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), to calculate scores for five symptom factors (Positive, Negative, Cognitive, Depressive and Hostility) and two negative symptom constructs (Diminished Expressivity (DE), and Social Anhedonia (SA) as part of the Motivation and Pleasure-related dimension), based on a previously validated model, modified in accordance with EPA guidelines on negative symptoms assessment. Neurocognition was assessed with symbol coding and digit sequencing tasks from the Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia (BACS). Functioning was assessed with the Social and Occupational Functioning Assessment Scale (SOFAS), employment status and World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 (WHODAS 2.0). Multiple regression analyses were performed on psychopathology scores and BACS scores against all three measures of functioning, controlling for age and sex. For WHODAS, regression with PANSS scores of significant symptom factors were also performed. Results: A lower severity of negative symptoms in the SA dimension was the strongest predictor of higher functioning across all three functioning measures. Neurocognition, in particular processing speed and attention assessed on the symbol coding task, predicted employment. A lower severity of somatic concerns and depressive symptoms was associated with lesser self-reported disability on WHODAS. Discussion: This study represents a first attempt at elucidating significant predictors of functioning in TRS. We highlight negative symptoms and neurocognition as important treatment targets to improve functioning in TRS, consistent with previous studies in general schizophrenia.

Brown adipose tissue-derived exosomes improve polycystic ovary syndrome in mice via STAT3/GPX4 signaling pathway.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with impaired adipose tissue physiology. Elevated brown adipose tissue (BAT) mass or activity has shown potential in the treatment of PCOS. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether BAT-derived exosomes (BAT-Exos), as potential biomarkers of BAT activity, exert similar benefits as BAT in the treatment of PCOS. PCOS was induced in female C57BL/6J mice orally administered 1 mg/kg of letrozole for 21 days. Subsequently, the animals underwent transplantation with BAT or administered BAT-Exos (200 µg) isolated from young healthy mice via the tail vein; healthy female mice were used as controls. The results indicate that BAT-Exos treatment significantly reduced body weight and improved insulin resistance in PCOS mice. In addition, BAT-Exos improved ovulation function by reversing the acyclicity of the estrous cycle, decreasing circulating luteinizing hormone and testosterone, recovering ovarian performance, and improving oocyte quality, leading to a higher pregnancy rate and litter size. Furthermore, western blotting revealed reduced expression of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and increased expression of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) in the ovaries of mice in the BAT-Exos group. To further explore the role of the STAT3/GPX4 signaling pathway in PCOS mice, we treated the mice with an intraperitoneal injection of 5 mg/kg stattic, a STAT3 inhibitor. Consistent with BAT-Exos treatment, the administration of stattic rescued letrozole-induced PCOS phenotypes. These findings suggest that BAT-Exos treatment might be a potential therapeutic strategy for PCOS and that the STAT3/GPX4 signaling pathway is a critical therapeutic target for PCOS.

Cathepsin B modulates microglial migration and phagocytosis of amyloid ß in Alzheimer's disease through PI3K-Akt signaling.

The approval of anti-amyloid ß (Aß) monoclonal antibodies (lecanemab) for the treatment of patients with early preclinical stage of Alzheimer's disease (AD) by the Food and Drug Administration, suggests the reliability and importance of brain Aß clearance for AD therapy. Microglia are the main phagocytes that clear Aß in the brain, but the underlying regulatory mechanism is unclear. Here, we investigate the critical role of cathepsin B (CatB) in modulating microglial Aß clearance from mouse brain. Wild-type or CatB-/- mice were injected with Aß into the hippocampus from 1 to 3 weeks. Mice were evaluated for cognitive change, Aß metabolism, neuroinflammation. Microglia and neuron cultures were prepared to verify the in vivo results. The statistical analyses were performed by student's t test, one-way ANOVA with a post hoc Tukey's test using the GraphPad Prism software package. CatB deficiency significantly reduces Aß clearance efficiency and aggravates mouse cognitive decline. Exogenous Aß markedly increases CatB expression in activated microglia. Transcriptome analysis and in vitro cell culture experiments demonstrate that CatB is associated with gene clusters involved in migration, phagocytosis, and inflammation. In addition, transcriptome analysis and immunoblotting suggest that CatB modulates microglial Aß clearance via PI3K-AKT activation. Our study unveils a previously unknown role of CatB in promoting microglial functionality during Aß clearance.

Formation of thermal-induced microgels from soy protein hydrolysates: Effects of selective proteolysis on glycinin/ß-conglycinin.

This study explored the impact of selective proteolysis on the formation of thermally induced soy protein microgels. Glycinin hydrolysate (GH) and ß-conglycinin hydrolysate (CH) were obtained by subjecting soy protein isolate to selective proteolysis for different hydrolysis time (10-90 min), as confirmed by SDS-PAGE. In the early stages of hydrolysis, free sulfhydryl, surface hydrophobicity, storage modulus (G') and loss modulus (G″) of GH and CH increased, which enhanced their gelling potential. However, as hydrolysis time increased, the gel properties of the hydrolysates progressively weakened. Structural characterization of microgels revealed that GH yielded microgels with smaller particle sizes and coarser and relatively dispersed granular structures, while CH resulted in microgels with lower potential values, smoother surfaces, and lumps resembling strand-like formations. Analysis of the structure and intermolecular force of microgels showed that the microgel formed by the GH gradually tended to be disordered, whereas the secondary structure of microgels formed by CH showed lower random coil content, resulting in a dense gel network aggregated through disulfide bonding, hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonding as demonstrated by frequency-dependent storage moduli measurements. Overall, this study presents a thorough characterization of microgels and shows that they can be tailored by selective proteolysis, which enables controlling the ß-conglycinin/glycinin ratio of soy protein.

Photoelectric property degradation of graded barrier InAs/GaSb type II superlattice long-wave infrared detectors under 1†MeV electron irradiation.

Amid rapid advancements in aerospace science and technology, studying the effects of space radiation on an infrared detector is crucial for enhancing their reliability in radiation environments, particularly against electrons-one of the most damaging charged particles. Barrier structures significantly reduce dark current without any substantial degradation in the optical performance of the devices. Consequently, they are being investigated for use in extreme environments. This paper presents a study on the performance degradation of InAs/GaSb type II superlattice (T2SLs) long-wave infrared (LWIR) detectors with a graded barrier structure under 1 MeV electron irradiation and analyzes potential damage mechanisms. The findings indicate that 1 MeV electron irradiation causes both ionization and displacement damage to the graded barrier InAs/GaSb T2SL LWIR detectors. After irradiation with a fluence of 2 × 1015 e/cm2, the device's dark current density has increased by approximately two orders of magnitude, while the quantum efficiency has decreased by approximately one order of magnitude. As the device mesa shrinks, the sensitivity of dark current to radiation exposure increases. Electron irradiation notably exacerbates surface leakage and bulk dark current, with a pronounced increase in surface leakage current. The study also reveals that electron irradiation primarily enhances the dark current by introducing defect states, thereby leading to device performance degradation.

Diminished representation of vitamin-B12-producing bacteria in constipated elders with frailty.

Constipation and frailty are associated with intestinal dysbiosis. This study aims to identify intestinal microbial signatures that can differentiate between constipated elders accompanied by frailty and those without frailty. We collected stool samples from 61 participants and conducted 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Constipated patients with frailty (Constipation_F) exhibited reduced gut microbial diversities compared to constipated patients without frailty (Constipation_NF) and healthy individuals (C). From differential genera, random forest models identified 14, 8, and 5 biomarkers for distinguishing Constipation_F from Constipation_NF, Constipation_F from C, and Constipation_NF from C, respectively. Functional analysis revealed that pathways (P381-PWY and PWY-5507) related to vitamin B12 synthesis were reduced in Constipation_F, which aligns with the decreased abundances of vitamin-B12-producing Actinomyces and Akkermansia in this group. Our study unveils substantial differences in gut microbiota between constipated elders with frailty and those without, underscoring the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of genera involved in vitamin B12 synthesis.

Improvement of Flowering Stage in Japonica Rice Variety Jiahe212 by Using CRISPR/Cas9 System.

The flowering period of rice significantly impacts variety adaptability and yield formation. Properly shortening the reproductive period of rice varieties can expand their ecological range without significant yield reduction. Targeted genome editing, like CRISPR/Cas9, is an ideal tool to fine-tune rice growth stages and boost yield synergistically. In this study, we developed a CRISPR/Cas9-mediated multiplex genome-editing vector containing five genes related to three traits, Hd2, Ghd7, and DTH8 (flowering-stage genes), along with the recessive rice blast resistance gene Pi21 and the aromatic gene BADH2. This vector was introduced into the high-quality japonica rice variety in Zhejiang province, Jiahe212 (JH212), resulting in 34 T0 plants with various effective mutations. Among the 17 mutant T1 lines, several displayed diverse flowering dates, but most exhibited undesirable agronomic traits. Notably, three homozygous mutant lines (JH-C15, JH-C18, and JH-C31) showed slightly earlier flowering dates without significant differences in yield-related traits compared to JH212. Through special Hyg and Cas marker selection of T2 plants, we identified seven, six, and two fragrant glutinous plants devoid of transgenic components. These single plants will serve as sib lines of JH212 and potential resources for breeding applications, including maintenance lines for indica-japonica interspecific three-line hybrid rice. In summary, our research lays the foundation for the creation of short-growth-period CMS (cytoplasmic male sterility, CMS) lines, and also provides materials and a theoretical basis for indica-japonica interspecific hybrid rice breeding with wider adaptability.

Geneenvironment interaction between phthalate exposure and pubertal genetic polymorphisms on blood pressure variability in children: Exploring the moderating effects of lifestyle behaviours.

Phthalates (PAEs) are synthetic compounds extensively employed in consumer products. Blood pressure (BP) in children can vary, the degree of visit-to-visit BP variability (VVV) is at least partially independent of BP. The interactions between PAEs exposure, pubertal-related genetic susceptibility and lifestyles on childhood VVV are not investigated. This study utilized data from a cohort collected from Oct 2017-2020 in Xiamen, China. Seven urine PAE metabolites were measured. The long-term VVV was characterized employing the standard deviation (SD) and average real variability. We constructed a genetic risk score (GRS) of pubertal-related genes and healthy lifestyle scores. Exposed to high levels of mono-2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl phthalate (MEHHP) (OR=1.43, 95 %CI=1.07, 1.92) and mono-2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl phthalate (OR=1.36, 95 % CI=1.01, 1.83) was related to increased SBP-SD, and the OR for high SBP-SD related to high GRS was 1.38 (95 % CI=1.02, 1.85). Compared to participants who had low GRS and low MEHHP exposure, participants exhibiting high GRS and MEHHP levels were more likely to experience high SBP-SD (OR=2.00, P<0.05). Individuals exhibiting low GRS, low MEHHP levels, and adhering to healthy lifestyles were associated with the least probability of experiencing high SBP-SD (OR=0.31, P<0.05). Increased PAEs exposure could elevate childhood systolic VVV, and exacerbated the adverse impact of pubertal-related genetic susceptibility on the high VVV of SBP; however, healthy lifestyles might alleviate these adverse effects. Promoting healthy lifestyles and reducing PAEs exposure for preventing elevated BP variability among children is important, especially for individuals with greater genetic susceptibility to early pubertal onset. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPLICATION: Blood pressure (BP) in children can vary, as a noninvasive, inexpensive and applicable method, the extent of visit-to-visit variability (VVV) is at least partially independent of BP. The interactions between phthalates (PAEs) exposure, variants of puberty-related genes and lifestyles on VVV are not investigated. Increased childhood systolic VVV might be associated with PAEs exposure, with the associations more pronounced combined with pubertal genetic susceptibility. Yet, healthy habits could partly eliminate such adverse effects. Our study underscores the importance of advocating for healthy lifestyles and reducing exposure to PAEs, especially among individuals with high genetic susceptibility to early puberty onset.

MIL-88A(Al)/chitosan/graphene oxide composite aerogel with hierarchical porosity for enhanced radioactive iodine adsorption.

To ensure the sustainable development of the nuclear industry, the effective capture of radioiodine from nuclear wastewater has attracted much attention. Herein, a novel MIL-88A(Al)/chitosan/graphene oxide (MCG) composite aerogel was prepared by using crosslinked chitosan and graphene oxide as the 3D network skeleton, and MIL-88A(Al) nanocrystalline particles were introduced into the skeleton by freeze-drying method. MIL-88A(Al) adsorption capacities for volatile and soluble iodine were 2.02 g g-1 and 850.00 mg g-1, respectively. Owing to the synergistic effect of MIL-88A(Al), GO, CS, and the hierarchically porous structures of the MCG aerogel, the adsorption capacities for volatile and soluble iodine by the MCG aerogel were increased to 2.62 g g-1 and 1072.60 mg g-1, respectively. Furthermore, the adsorption performance of the MCG aerogel for volatile and soluble iodine could be maintained at 83 % and 82 % after 5 cycles, suggesting excellent recoverability. Meanwhile, the adsorption mechanism studies showed the interactions between iodine and NH, AlO, and CO in MCG aerogel. Furthermore, the adsorption process is consistent with the Elovich kinetic and Sips isotherm models. MCG aerogels are potential candidates for enhanced radioiodine adsorption due to their high radioiodine capture performance and excellent recyclability.

Investigation of ocular surface parameters in dogs with different cephalic conformations using veterinary ocular surface analyzer (OSA-VET).

OBJECTIVE: To compare ocular surface parameters in dogs with different cephalic conformations and evaluate correlations among tests. ANIMALS STUDIED: Sixty-eight privately owned dogs. PROCEDURES: The study categorized canine eyes into three groups based on the craniofacial ratio (CFR): brachycephaly (≤0.52), mesocephaly (>0.52 to <0.67), and dolichocephaly (≥0.67). All eyes were examined using an ocular surface analyzer (OSA-VET) to determine lipid layer thickness (LLT) of the tear film, tear meniscus height (TMH), non-invasive tear breakup time (NIBUT), and meibomian gland loss rate of the lower eyelids (MGLRL). Schirmer tear test 1 (STT-1) and tear film breakup time (TBUT) were also performed. Statistical analyses involved one-way ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis H test, post hoc Holm-Sidak test, and Pearson correlation coefficient. RESULTS: While STT-1 showed no significant difference among dog groups, brachycephalic dogs had significantly lower values in TBUT, NIBUT, and LLT, and a higher TMH, compared to mesocephalic and dolichocephalic dogs. Additionally, brachycephalic dogs exhibited a significantly higher MGLRL than dolichocephalic dogs. Correlations among tests were generally weak to moderate (r < .6) except for a strong correlation between CFR and LLT (r = .641, p < .001), and between TBUT and NIBUT (r = .899, p < .001). CONCLUSIONS: Brachycephalic morphology predisposes dogs to a significantly thinner lipid layer and diminished tear film stability, likely due to factors such as impaired meibomian gland function and increased ocular exposure compared to other cephalic conformations, thereby increasing their risk of keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS). OSA-VET shows a valuable tool to provide more comprehensive and precise diagnosis for canine ocular surface disorders.

Polydopamine coating for enhanced electrostatic adsorption of methylene blue by multiwalled carbon nanotubes in alkaline environments.

The removal of dye molecules in alkaline environments is an issue that should receive increased attention. In this study, the interaction mechanism between polydopamine-modified multiwalled carbon nanotubes (P-MWCNTs) and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with the cationic dye methylene blue (MB) in alkaline environments was explained in depth by adsorption, spectroscopy, and density functional theory (DFT). The mechanism of action and dominant forces between the adsorbent and adsorbate were analyzed graphically by introducing energy decomposition analysis (EDA) and an independent gradient model (IGM) into the DFT calculations. In addition, the force distribution was investigated through an isosurface. Moreover, batch adsorption studies were conducted to evaluate the performance of MWCNTs and P-MWCNTs for MB removal in alkaline environments. The maximum MB adsorption capacities of the MWCNTs and P-MWCNTs in solution were 113.3 mg‧g-1 and 230.4 mg‧g-1, respectively, at pH 9. The IGM and EDA showed that the better adsorption capacity of the P-MWCNTs originated from the enhancement of the electrostatic effect by the proton dissociation of polydopamine. Moreover, the adsorption of MB by MWCNTs and P-MWCNTs in alkaline environments was governed by dispersion and electrostatic effects, respectively. Through this study, it is hoped that progress will be made in the use of DFT to explore the mechanism of adsorbent-adsorbate interactions.

Multilayer porous Co-Fe bimetallic electrocatalyst based on multi-walled carbon nanotubes for rechargeable zinc-air batteries.

The rational design of efficient, stable, low-cost non-precious metal-based electrocatalysts with enhanced oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity has attracted widespread attention. In this study, a novel electrocatalyst, Fe/Co-N-MWCNT, was prepared by in-situ growth of ZIF-8 and Fe/Co-Phen on multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), then pyrolysis under different temperature to obtain optimal one. During the pyrolysis process, the incorporation of Fe and Co facilitated the formation of metal active sites and Fe-Co alloy, thereby promoting electron transfer and enhancing the ORR activity. Compared to Pt/C (E1/2 = 0.854V, JL = 4.90 mA cm-2), Fe/Co-N-MWCNT demonstrated a comparable half-wave potential (E1/2 = 0.812V) and an enhanced limiting current density (JL = 5.37 mA cm-2). Furthermore, Fe/Co-N-MWCNT was stable and showed no significant change after 2000 cycles, with only a negative shift of 7 mV in E1/2. Ampere response testing revealed that the current decay of Fe/Co-N-MWCNT after 10000 s was only about 7.8%, while that of Pt/C was about 18.4%. Due to its excellent catalytic stability, Fe/Co-N-MWCNT was demonstrated to be an excellent candidate for rechargeable zinc-air batteries. The outstanding electrocatalytic performance of Fe/Co-N-MWCNT can be attributed to its high pyridinic nitrogen content, the unique structure and abundant metal active sites.

Rational design of ROS scavenging and fluorescent gold nanoparticles to deliver siRNA to improve plant resistance to Pseudomonas syringae.

Bacterial diseases are one of the most common issues that result in crop loss worldwide, and the increasing usage of chemical pesticides has caused the occurrence of resistance in pathogenic bacteria and environmental pollution problems. Nanomaterial mediated gene silencing is starting to display powerful efficiency and environmental friendliness for improving plant disease resistance. However, the internalization of nanomaterials and the physiological mechanisms behind nano-improved plant disease resistance are still rarely understood. We engineered the polyethyleneimine (PEI) functionalized gold nanoparticles (PEI-AuNPs) with fluorescent properties and ROS scavenging activity to act as siRNA delivery platforms. Besides the loading, protection, and delivery of nucleic acid molecules in plant mature leaf cells by PEI-AuNPs, its fluorescent property further enables the traceability of the distribution of the loaded nucleic acid molecules in cells. Additionally, the PEI-AuNPs-based RNAi delivery system successfully mediated the silencing of defense-regulated gene AtWRKY1. Compared to control plants, the silenced plants performed better resistance to Pseudomonas syringae, showing a reduced bacterial number, decreased ROS content, increased antioxidant enzyme activities, and improved chlorophyll fluorescence performance. Our results showed the advantages of AuNP-based RNAi technology in improving plant disease resistance, as well as the potential of plant nanobiotechnology to protect agricultural production.

Transdermal delivery of iguratimod and colchicine ethosome by dissolving microneedle patch for the treatment of recurrent gout.

This study introduces a novel approach of repetitive modeling to simulate the pathological process of recurrent gout attacks in humans. This methodology addresses the instability issues present in rat models of gout, providing a more accurate representation of the damage recurrent gout episodes inflict on human skeletal systems. A soluble nanoneedle system encapsulating colchicine and iguratimod ethosomal formulations was developed. This system aims to modulate inflammatory cytokines and inhibit osteoclast activity, thereby treating inflammatory pain and bone damage associated with recurrent gout. Additionally, a comprehensive evaluation of the microneedles' appearance, morphology, mechanical properties, and penetration capability confirmed their effectiveness in penetrating the stratum corneum. Dissolution tests and skin irritation assessments demonstrated that these microneedles dissolve rapidly without irritating the skin. In vitro permeation studies indicated that transdermal drug delivery via these microneedles is more efficient and incurs lower drug loss compared to traditional topical applications. In vivo pharmacodynamic assessments conducted in animal models revealed significant analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects when both types of microneedles were used together. Further analyses, including X-ray imaging, hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, Safranin-O/fast green staining, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining, and quantification of osteoclasts, confirmed the bone-protective effects of the microneedle combination. In conclusion, the findings of this research underscore the potential of this novel therapeutic approach for clinical application in the treatment of recurrent gout.

The cumulative live birth rate and cost-effectiveness of the clomiphene and gonadotropin cotreatment protocol versus the mid-luteal GnRH agonist protocol in women over 35 years old.

The decrease in assisted reproductive technology success among older women, attributed to decreased oocyte quantity and quality, poses a significant challenge. Currently, no consensus on the optimal ovarian stimulation protocol for older women undergoing IVF exists. This retrospectively registered cohort study aimed to compare the cumulative live birth rate (CLBR), time to live birth (TTLB), and cost-effectiveness among women older than 35 years who were receiving either the gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) or clomiphene citrate and gonadotropin cotreatment with ovarian stimulation (CC cotreatment) protocol. To compare treatment outcomes, we performed propensity score matching (PSM) on 2871 IVF cycles in women older than 35 years who received either the GnRHa or CC cotreatment protocol, resulting in 375 cycles in each group. Additionally, a decision tree model was utilized to assess the cost-effectiveness of the two protocols. Following PSM, both groups had similar baseline characteristics. The CC cotreatment protocol resulted in a greater rate of cycle cancellation (13.07% vs. 8.00%, p = 0.032), but the groups maintained comparable fertilization rates and embryo quality. Although the TTLB was longer in the CC cotreatment group, the CLBR per initial cycle (41.07% vs. 45.33%, p = 0.269) and delivery outcomes were similar between the two groups at the 24 months follow-up. Additionally, the average cost per live birth in the CC cotreatment group was 21.27% lower than in the GnRHa group (¥32,301.42 vs. ¥39,174.22). In conclusion, for women older than 35 years undergoing IVF, the CC cotreatment protocol offered a comparable CLBR to the GnRHa protocol but with reduced costs, indicating its potential as a viable and cost-effective ovarian stimulation option.Clinical trial registration: https://www.chictr.org.cn/ , identifier [ChiCTR2300076537].

Delayed femoral artery injury caused by heterotopic ossification: a rare case report and review of the literature.

BACKGROUND: Arterial injury caused by heterotopic ossification (HO) following fractures is rarely reported, yet it can have catastrophic consequences. This case report presents a unique instance of femoral artery injury and hematoma organization, occurring a decade after intramedullary nail fixation for a femoral shaft fracture complicated by HO. CASE PRESENTATION: A 56-year-old male presented with right femoral artery injury and organized hematoma, a decade after suffering bilateral femoral shaft fractures with mild head injury in a traffic accident. He had received intramedullary nailing for the right femoral shaft fracture and plate fixation for the left side in a local hospital. Physical examination revealed two firm, palpable masses with clear boundaries, limited mobility, and no tenderness. Peripheral arterial pulses were intact. Radiography demonstrated satisfactory fracture healing, while a continuous high-density shadow was evident along the inner and posterior aspect of the right thigh. Computed tomography angiography identified a large mixed-density mass (16.8 × 14.8 × 20.7 cm) on the right thigh's medial side, featuring central calcification and multiple internal calcifications. The right deep femoral artery coursed within this mass, with a smaller lesion noted on the posterior thigh. Surgical consultation with a vascular surgeon led to planned intervention. The smaller mass was completely excised, but the larger one partially, as it encased the femoral artery. The inability to remove all HO was due to excessive bleeding. Postoperatively, the patient experienced no complications, and one-year follow-up revealed a favorable recovery with restoration of full right lower limb mobility. CONCLUSION: This case underscores the potential gravity of vascular injury associated with heterotopic ossification. Surgeons should remain vigilant regarding the risk of vascular injury during HO excision.

Balancing Act: Exploring the Gut Microbiota-Brown Adipose Tissue Axis in PCOS Pathogenesis and Therapeutic Frontiers.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent reproductive, endocrine, and metabolic disease that affects 5-18% of women worldwide, with a rising incidence. Hyperandrogenemia and insulin resistance are two key pathophysiological factors that contribute to PCOS, both of which contribute to a variety of health issues such as menstrual irregularities, obesity, dysfunctional glucose and lipid homeostasis, infertility, mental disorders, and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Despite ongoing studies, the origin and pathogenesis of PCOS remain elusive; there is also a clinical need for simpler, more effective, longer lasting, and more comprehensive treatments for women with PCOS. The gut-fat axis, a critical regulatory route for metabolism, endocrine function, and immune response, has received considerable interest in recent years in the research of the etiology and treatment of metabolic illnesses such as type 2 diabetes mellitus and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The latest research in PCOS has revealed significant alterations in the homogeneity and phylogenetic diversity of the gut microbiota. Animal research using fecal microbiota transplantation has confirmed the importance of gut microbiota in regulating insulin sensitivity and sex hormone balance in PCOS. Furthermore, studies have shown a decrease in the volume and/or activity of brown adipose tissue (BAT) in PCOS patients, a change that alters adipokine release, leading to insulin resistance and hyperandrogenemia, aggravating PCOS progression. Given the function of BAT in increasing energy expenditure and alleviating metabolic parameters, efforts to activate BAT or induce browning of white adipose tissue have emerged as possible treatments for PCOS. Recent research has suggested that the gut microbiota can influence BAT creation and activity via metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids and bile acids, as well as the gut-brain axis. Cold exposure, healthy dieting, metformin, bariatric surgery, glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists and melatonin have all been shown in basic and clinical studies to modulate BAT activity by influencing the gut microbiota, demonstrating significant clinical potential. However, more studies into the regulation mechanisms of the gut-BAT axis are required to produce more effective, comfortable, and safe tailored therapeutics for PCOS.

Upregulated lncRNA LINC01128 in colorectal cancer accelerates cell growth and predicts malignant prognosis through sponging miR-363-3p.

PURPOSE: Colorectal cancer (CRC) refers to high-mortality tumors arising in the colon or rectum with a high rate of recurrence. The involvement of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) contributes to the treatment and prognosis evaluation of CRC, and brings a new direction for the radical cure of patients. To identify the pathological mechanism and regulation of lncRNA LINC01128 (LINC01128) on CRC cells, and analyze its potential prognostic value. METHODS: LINC01128 level in tissue and cell specimens from 122 CRC patients was evaluated by RT-qPCR. The clinical significance and prognostic value of LINC01128 in CRC were analyzed via Kaplan-Meier and Cox analysis. CCK8 and Transwell assays were used to study the function of LINC01128 in vitro. The relationship between LINC01128 and miR-363-3p was confirmed by luciferase reporter gene assay. RESULTS: The overexpression of LINC01128 is associated with TNM stage and lymph node metastasis in CRC patients. Silencing LINC01128 inhibited the proliferation and metastasis of CRC cells. In addition, LINC01128 directly targeted and negatively regulated the miR-363-3p expression, while miR-363-3p inhibitor restored the inhibitory function of LINC01128. CONCLUSION: As an independent prognostic factor of CRC, upregulation of LINC01128 predicts poor prognosis and accelerates tumor deterioration through miR-363-3p.

Study on Drug Resistance to Treatment for Ureaplasma Urealyticum Infections in the Female Genital Tract.

BACKGROUND: Ureaplasma urealyticum (U. urealyticum) commonly occurs in female genitourinary infections, and its different biovars and serotypes have varying degrees of resistance to different antibiotics. This study aimed to ex-plore the characteristics of U. urealyticum infection and drug-resistant profiles in Chinese females. METHODS: We included 1,045 females with genital tract infections who visited Tangshan Workers' Hospital and Tangshan Maternal and Child Health Center from September 2017 to December 2018. The bacteria were selectively cultured, and drug sensitivity experiments were conducted. Eight pairs of oligonucleotide primers were designed, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to amplify specific DNA fragments to perform bacterial strain typing. RESULTS: Among the 1,045 participants included, 566 (54.11%) participants were positive for mycoplasma infection. There were 432 (41.34%) participants with U. urealyticum infection, accounting for 76.33% of the positive participants. The infection rate of U. urealyticum was the highest in females who were 21 - 30 years old, followed by those who were 31 - 40 years old. Ureaplasma urealyticum showed the highest sensitivity to tetracyclines and the greatest resistance to quinolones. The biovar 1 of U. urealyticum with the highest detection rate of serotype 4, accounted for 66.88%. The biovar 2 of U. urealyticum mainly showed mixed subtypes 2 and 3. Biovar 2 showed higher resistance to sparfloxacin, clarithromycin, josamycin, and doxycycline than biovar 1. CONCLUSIONS: Women might be more susceptible to U. urealyticum, especially if they are of childbearing age. Urea-plasma urealyticum is mainly caused by a single serotype 6 infection. The resistance of U. urealyticum to quinolone (e.g., norfloxacin) is a great concern. Sparfloxacin, clarithromycin, ciprofloxacin, and doxycycline might be more suitable for people with biovar 1 infection. Biotyping may facilitate clinical drug use and help avoid the emergence of drug-resistant strains.

Starch-fiber foaming biodegradable composites with polylactic acid hydrophobic surface.

Starch and plant fibers are abundant natural polymers that offer biodegradability, making them potential substitutes for plastics in certain applications, but are usually limited by its high hydrophilicity, and low mechanical performance. To address this issue, polylactic acid (PLA) is blended with cellulose and chitosan to create a waterproof film that can be applied to starch-fiber foaming biodegradable composites to enhance their water resistance properties. Here, plant fibers as a reinforcement is incorporated to the modified starch by foaming mold at 260 °C, and PLA based hydrophobic film is coated onto the surface to prepare the novel hydrophobic bio-composites. The developed bio-composite exhibits comprehensive water barrier properties, which is significantly better than that of traditional starch and cellulose based materials. Introducing PLA films decreases water vapor permeability from 766.83 g/m2·24h to 664.89 g/m2·24h, and reduce hysteresis angles from 15.57° to 8.59° within the first five minutes after exposure to moisture. The water absorption rate of PLA films also decreases significantly from 12.3 % to 7.9 %. Additionally, incorporating hydrophobic films not only enhances overall waterproof performance but also improves mechanical properties of the bio-composites. The fabricated bio-composite demonstrates improved tensile strength from 2.09 MPa to 3.53 MPa.