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Background: We evaluated the influence of different partial carbon dioxide pressure (PaCO2) levels on organ perfusion in patients with respiratory failure receiving pressure-support ventilation with veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-V ECMO). Methods: In this twelve patients prospective study, ECMO gas-flow was decreased from baseline (PaCO2 < 40 mmHg) until PaCO2 increased by 5–10 mmHg (High-CO2 phase). Resistance indices of gut, spleen, and snuffbox artery, the peripheral perfusion index (PPI), and heart rate variability were measured at baseline and High-CO2 phase. Results: When PaCO2 increased from 36 (36–37) mmHg at baseline to 42 (41–43) mmHg in the High-CO2 phase (p < 0.001), PPI decreased significantly (p = 0.026). The snuffbox artery (p = 0.022), superior mesenteric artery (p = 0.042), and spleen (p = 0.012) resistance indices increased significantly. The root mean square of successive differences (RMSSD) decreased from 19.5(18.1–22.7) to 15.9(14.4–18.6) ms (p = 0.034), and the ratio of low-frequency to high-frequency components(LF/HF) increased from 0.47 ± 0.23 to 0.70 ± 0.38 (p = 0.013). Conclusions: High PaCO2 might cause decreased peripheral tissue and visceral organ perfusion through autonomic nervous system in patients with respiratory failure undergoing PSV with V-V ECMO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maintaining the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) while enlarging the active area is necessary for their industrialization, where the key part is the uniform carrier extraction. Here, a conformal electron transport layer (ETL) is reported with eliminated low‐conductive contacts through a tailored deposition that combines chemical bath deposition and modified spin‐coating on a light‐managing textured substrate. The KPFM and C‐AFM are utilized to prove the uniform and optimized electrical properties. This study further employs the 2D measurements of PL and TRPL mapping to focus on revealing the enhanced uniformity of electron extraction. The uniform ETL conductivity and electron extraction contribute to a substantial decrease in device up‐scaling losses, making the δPCE (PCE0.08−PCE1PCE0.08)$\frac{{{\mathrm{PC}}{{{\mathrm{E}}}_{0.08}} - {\mathrm{PC}}{{{\mathrm{E}}}_1}}}{{{\mathrm{PC}}{{{\mathrm{E}}}_{0.08}}}})\ $ between 0.08 cm2‐device and 1 cm2‐device decrease from 5.02% to 2.97%, while the perovskite film is deposited using two‐step method. When using one‐step method to deposit perovskite film, PCEs of 25.13% and 23.93% for the active area of 0.08 cm2 and 1 cm2 are achieved, and the δPCE decreases from 7.89% to 4.77%, validating the significant effects on reducing up‐scaling losses. This work provides a new perspective to maintain high efficiency while device up‐scaling, providing more opportunities to push forward the PSCs industrialization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, proteins were prepared from Schizochytrium pombe residue after oil extraction using isoelectric point precipitation, and their physicochemical and emulsifying properties were investigated. Our objective was to assess the suitability of these proteins for functional ingredient applications. Through a one-way experiment and optimization using response surface design, the effects of time, temperature, pH, and the material–liquid ratio of NaOH alkaline extraction were explored. The isoelectric point is verified by isoelectric point precipitation; the results revealed that crude protein from Schizochytrium (SCP) is minimally soluble at pH 4.2. Compared with whey protein (WP), it promotes better emulsion stability through the emulsification test. This study suggests that Schizochytrium oil-processing byproducts represent a promising source of protein, with potential applications as functional ingredients, offering implications for the usage of these byproducts in various industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background 10-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk scores were useful for predicting large vessel disease, but the relationships between them and cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) were unclear. Our study aimed to evaluate associations of 10-year ASCVD risk scores with CSVD and its magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) markers. Methods Community-dwelling residents from the PolyvasculaR Evaluation for Cognitive Impairment and vaScular Events study were included in this cross-sectional study. At baseline, we collected data related to the Framingham Risk Score (FRS), pooled cohort equation (PCE), prediction for ASCVD risk in China (China-PAR) and Systematic COronary Risk Evaluation model 2 (SCORE2), and classified participants into low, moderate and high groups. Participants underwent brain MRI scans. We evaluated white matter hyperintensity (WMH), lacunes, cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) and enlarged perivascular spaces in basal ganglia (BG-EPVS) according to criteria of Wardlaw and Rothwell, and calculated total CSVD score and modified total CSVD score. Results A total of 3063 participants were included, and 53.5% of them were female. A higher FRS was associated with higher total CSVD score (moderate vs. low: cOR 1.89, 95% CI 1.53–2.34; high vs. low: cOR 3.23, 95%CI 2.62–3.97), and the PCE, China-PAR or SCORE2 score was positively related to total CSVD score (P  < 0.05). Moreover, higher 10-year ASCVD scores were associated with higher odds of WMH (P  < 0.05), lacunes (P  < 0.05), CMBs (P  < 0.05) and BG-EPVS (P  < 0.05). Conclusions The 10-year ASCVD scores were positively associated with CSVD and its MRI markers. These scores provided a method of risk stratification in the population with CSVD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has been suggested to be a prognostic marker for various diseases, but whether NLR dynamics (ΔNLR) is related to mortality and disease severity in patients with septic acute kidney injury (AKI) has not been determined. Between August 2013 and August 2021, septic AKI patients at our center were retrospectively enrolled. ΔNLR was defined as the difference between the NLR at septic AKI diagnosis and at hospital admission. The relationship between the ΔNLR and mortality was evaluated by Kaplan–Meier curves, Cox proportional hazards, and cubic spline analyses. The prediction values were compared by area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUROC), net reclassification improvement (NRI), and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) analyses. Of the 413 participants, the mean age was 63 ± 17 years, and 134 were female (32.4%). According to the median value, patients in the high-ΔNLR group had significantly greater 90-d mortality (74.4% vs. 46.6%, p < 0.001). After adjustment for potential confounders, high ΔNLR remained an independent predictor of 90-d mortality (HR = 2.80; 95% CI = 1.74–4.49, p < 0.001). Furthermore, ΔNLR had the highest AUROC for 90-d mortality (0.685) among the various biomarkers and exhibited an improved NRI (0.314) and IDI (0.027) when incorporated with PCT and CRP. For secondary outcomes, patients with high ΔNLR had increased risk of 30-d mortality (p = 0.004), need for renal replacement therapy (p = 0.011), and developing stage-3 AKI (p = 0.040) according to the adjusted models. High ΔNLR is independently associated with increased risk of patient mortality and adverse outcomes. ΔNLR might be utilized to facilitate risk stratification and optimize septic AKI management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal‐halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have emerged as a promising photovoltaic technology. Fabricating PSCs in ambient air can accelerate their low‐cost commercialization, since it can remove the reliance on atmosphere‐controlled equipment. However, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of air‐fabricated PSCs still lags behind those fabricated in glovebox. Here, based on a technology to fabricate high‐quality perovskite film in ambient air, a compatible optimization is performed on electron transport layer (ETL) to further enhance the photovoltaic performance of PSCs. A soft‐templated deposition strategy is proposed that utilizes tetrasodium glutamate diacetate (GLDA) to finely regulate the chemical bath deposition process, leading to an ideal SnO2 ETL with no additive residual. Adopting this feature of no residual, a molecular bridge using β‐guanidinopropionic acid (βA) is constructed at the buried interface (SnO2/perovskite), which effectively enhances the electron extraction and decreases electron losses. The resulting PSCs (0.08 cm2) achieve an impressive PCE of 25.74% (certificated 25.43%), which is the highest among the air‐fabricated PSCs reported to date. A PCE of 24.61% in 1 cm2‐PSCs is also obtained, exhibiting the scalable potential of the technology. In addition, the excellent operational stability of these PSCs is also demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The commercialization of perovskite solar cells is badly limited by stability, an issue determined mainly by perovskite. Herein, inspired by a natural creeper that can cover the walls through suckers, we adopt polyhexamethyleneguanidine hydrochloride as a molecular creeper on perovskite to inhibit its decomposition starting from the annealing process. The molecule possesses a long-line molecular structure where the guanidinium groups can serve as suckers that strongly anchor cations through multiple hydrogen bonds. These features make the molecular creeper can cover perovskite grains and inhibit perovskite decomposition by suppressing cations' escape. The resulting planar perovskite solar cells achieve an efficiency of 25.42% (certificated 25.36%). Moreover, the perovskite film and device exhibit enhanced stability even under harsh damp-heat conditions. The devices can maintain >96% of their initial efficiency after 1300 hours of operation under 1-sun illumination and 1000 hours of storage under 85% RH, respectively. The decomposition of perovskite materials during annealing could impact on their stability. Here, the authors adopt a molecular creeper to inhibit perovskite decomposition by suppressing the escape of cations, achieving certified efficiency of 25.36% for solar cells with operational stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

6-BA, a small molecule compound of cytokinins, has been proven to delay leaf senescence in different species, including Chinese flowering cabbage; however, its specific mechanism remains relatively unknown. In this study, the application of external 6-BA delayed leaf senescence in Chinese flowering cabbage, showing that 6-BA effectively prevented the decrease in the maximum quantum yield (Fv/Fm) and overall chlorophyll content and suppressed the expression of the senescence-associated gene BrSAG12 over a 7-day period of storage. Moreover, treatment with 6-BA decreased the respiratory rate, NAD(H) content, the activities of hexose phosphate isomerase (PHI), succinate dehydrogenase (SDH), cytochrome c oxidase (CCO), and ascorbic acid oxidase (AAO) using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and the transcriptional abundance of related genes by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Furthermore, 6-BA also increased the activity and expression levels of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) and 6-phosphate gluconate dehydrogenase (6-PGDH). The group treated with 6-BA retained elevated levels of NADP (H), ATP, total ATPase, and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide kinase (NADK) activity, as well as the expression of respiratory enzymes. Molecular docking indicated that 6-BA hinders the glycolysis pathway (EMP), tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA), and cytochrome pathway (CCP), and sustains elevated levels of the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) through interactions with the PHI, SDH, 6-PGDH, G6PDH, CCO, and AAO proteins, consequently delaying postharvest leaf senescence in Chinese flowering cabbage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key message: This study not only provide a theoretical basis for screening drought-resistant yellowhorn rootstocks but also lay the foundation for the research on the drought resistance mechanism of yellowhorn. Drought is a major limiting factor in the production and cultivation of yellowhorn, an important woody oil species in China. It is important to select excellent drought-resistant rootstocks, and the current reproduction of rootstocks of yellowhorn is mainly through seed propagation. In this study, we analyzed the phenotypes, physiology and anatomy of the F1 generation of five yellowhorn varieties ('Zhongshi 1', 'Zhongshi 4', 'Zhongshi 7', 'Zhongshi 9' and 'Yuanda') which are currently the main promoted varieties of yellowhorn. The changes in physiological traits were used to comprehensively rank drought resistance by the membership function method. The results showed that the drought resistance of different varieties was in the order 'Zhongshi 9' > 'Zhongshi 4' > 'Yuanda' > 'Zhongshi 7' > 'Zhongshi 1'. In addition, we investigated the molecular signature of two yellowhorn varieties exhibiting a large difference in levels of drought resistance using transcriptome data. A total of 119 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were found between the 2 yellowhorn varieties under drought stress. Based on KEGG analysis, DEGs were mostly enriched in three pathways. According to the correlation analysis between weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and physiological traits, a total of four co-expression networks with high correlation were constructed, and some hub genes of yellowhorn in response to drought stress were found. We carried out a comprehensive evaluation of yellowhorn drought tolerance based on parental lines. It solves the current problems faced in the breeding of yellowhorn and lays the foundation for studying the molecular mechanism of drought resistance in yellowhorn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The doped organic hole transport layer (HTL) is crucial for achieving high‐efficiency perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, the traditional doping strategy undergoes a time‐consuming and environment‐dependent oxidation process, which hinders the technology upgrades and commercialization of PSCs. Here, we reported a new strategy by introducing a cascade reaction in traditional doped Spiro‐OMeTAD, which can simultaneously achieve rapid oxidation and overcome the erosion of perovskite by 4‐tert‐butylpyridine (tBP) in organic HTL. The ideal dopant iodobenzene diacetate was utilized as the initiator that can react with Spiro to generate Spiro⋅+ radicals quickly and efficiently without the participation of ambient air, with the byproduct of iodobenzene (DB). Then, the DB can coordinate with tBP through a halogen bond to form a tBP‐DB complex, minimizing the sustained erosion from tBP to perovskite. Based on the above cascade reaction, the resulting Spiro‐based PSCs have a champion PCE of 25.76 % (certificated of 25.38 %). This new oxidation process of HTL is less environment‐dependent and produces PSCs with higher reproducibility. Moreover, the PTAA‐based PSCs obtain a PCE of 23.76 %, demonstrating the excellent applicability of this doping strategy on organic HTL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The doped organic hole transport layer (HTL) is crucial for achieving high‐efficiency perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, the traditional doping strategy undergoes a time‐consuming and environment‐dependent oxidation process, which hinders the technology upgrades and commercialization of PSCs. Here, we reported a new strategy by introducing a cascade reaction in traditional doped Spiro‐OMeTAD, which can simultaneously achieve rapid oxidation and overcome the erosion of perovskite by 4‐tert‐butylpyridine (tBP) in organic HTL. The ideal dopant iodobenzene diacetate was utilized as the initiator that can react with Spiro to generate Spiro⋅+ radicals quickly and efficiently without the participation of ambient air, with the byproduct of iodobenzene (DB). Then, the DB can coordinate with tBP through a halogen bond to form a tBP‐DB complex, minimizing the sustained erosion from tBP to perovskite. Based on the above cascade reaction, the resulting Spiro‐based PSCs have a champion PCE of 25.76 % (certificated of 25.38 %). This new oxidation process of HTL is less environment‐dependent and produces PSCs with higher reproducibility. Moreover, the PTAA‐based PSCs obtain a PCE of 23.76 %, demonstrating the excellent applicability of this doping strategy on organic HTL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In response to the growing demand for railway obstacle monitoring, lidar technology has emerged as an up-and-coming solution. In this study, we developed a mechanical 3D lidar system and meticulously calibrated the point cloud transformation to monitor specific areas precisely. Based on this foundation, we have devised a novel set of algorithms for obstacle detection within point clouds. These algorithms encompass three key steps: (a) the segmentation of ground point clouds and extraction of track point clouds using our RS-Lo-RANSAC (region select Lo-RANSAC) algorithm; (b) the registration of the BP (background point cloud) and FP (foreground point cloud) via an improved Robust ICP algorithm; and (c) obstacle recognition based on the VFOR (voxel-based feature obstacle recognition) algorithm from the fused point clouds. This set of algorithms has demonstrated robustness and operational efficiency in our experiments on a dataset obtained from an experimental field. Notably, it enables monitoring obstacles with dimensions of 15 cm × 15 cm × 15 cm. Overall, our study showcases the immense potential of lidar technology in railway obstacle monitoring, presenting a promising solution to enhance safety in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a high-precision obstacle detection algorithm using 3D mechanical LiDAR to meet railway safety requirements. To address the potential errors in the point cloud, we propose a calibration method based on projection and a novel rail extraction algorithm that effectively handles terrain variations and preserves the point cloud characteristics of the track area. We address the limitations of the traditional process involving fixed Euclidean thresholds by proposing a modulation function based on directional density variations to adjust the threshold dynamically. Finally, using PCA and local-ICP, we conduct feature analysis and classification of the clustered data to obtain the obstacle clusters. We conducted continuous experiments on the testing site, and the results showed that our system and algorithm achieved an STDR (stable detection rate) of over 95% for obstacles with a size of 15 cm × 15 cm × 15 cm in the range of ±25 m; at the same time, for obstacles of 10 cm × 10 cm × 10 cm, an STDR of over 80% was achieved within a range of ±20 m. This research provides a possible solution and approach for railway security via obstacle detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. In order to prevent the recurrence and progression of intermediate- and high-risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) after transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT), various bladder instillation therapies have been developed in recent years. Among these, device-assisted Hyperthermic Intravesical Chemotherapy (HIVEC) has received a great deal of attention. Objective. To identify the efficacy and safety of HIVEC, we conducted this meta-analysis. Methods. We identified relevant articles from PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases. All published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) describing the role of bladder instillation for the treatment of intermediate- and high-risk NMIBC were involved. Outcomes included 1–3 years Recurrence-Free Survival (RFS), 1–3 years Progression-Free Survival (PFS), 5 years Overall Survival (OS), Adverse Events (AEs), and relevant subgroup analyses. Result. Our study involved a total of 10 RCTs and 1360 patients. In subgroup analysis, we found that compared to MMC instillation, HIVEC decreased the 1–3 years RFS (OR = 0.51; p = 0.009) while not increasing the incidence of AEs (OR = 0.86; p = 0.30). Compared with BCG instillation, HIVEC reduced the incidence of serious AEs (OR = 0.21; p = 0.04) while bringing the same efficacy (OR = 0.78; p = 0.63). Conclusion. HIVEC combined the advantages of efficacy and safety compared with the two recommended instillation modalities. As a potential alternative therapy, its widespread clinical effect remains to be further evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global workforce faces a common problem: women are underrepresented in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) disciplines. Based on goal congruity theory, the present study examined Chinese college students' career interests. In Study 1, a total of 413 Science/Engineering and Medicine/Business majors chose between two jobs: one was masculine, and one was feminine; one afforded a life goal, and the other did not. The life goals were agentic (high salary), or communal (time to spend with family, helping others, and social connection). Results showed that men and Science/Engineering majors preferred masculine jobs more than feminine ones, whereas women and Medicine/Business majors preferred feminine jobs more than masculine ones. Among the four life goals, family-friendly jobs were valued the highest for Science/Engineering men. However, high-salary jobs were valued as high as family-friendly jobs for Science/Engineering women. Medicine/Business majors did not differentiate among the four life goals. To replicate the results regarding life goals, 84 Science/Engineering and Medicine/Business majors participated in Study 2, where they ranked four jobs that afforded a different goal. High-salary and family-friendly jobs were rated higher than the other two types of jobs for Science/Engineering and Medicine/Business majors. Our study showed the impact of different life goals on career preference. Theoretical and practical implications of the results were also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: We conducted a comprehensive meta-analysis to compare the effectiveness and safety of fluoroscopy-guided air enema reduction (FGAR) and ultrasound-guided hydrostatic enema reduction (UGHR) for the treatment of intussusception in pediatric patients. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted on retrospective studies obtained from various databases, including PUBMED, MEDLINE, Cochrane, Google Scholar, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), WanFang, and VIP Database. The search included publications from January 1, 2003, to March 31, 2023, with the last search done on Jan 15, 2023. Results: We included 49 randomized controlled studies and retrospective cohort studies involving a total of 9,391 patients, with 4,841 in the UGHR and 4,550 in the FGAR. Specifically, UGHR exhibited a significantly shorter time to reduction (WMD = -4.183, 95% CI = (-5.402, -2.964), P < 0.001), a higher rate of successful reduction (RR = 1.128, 95% CI = (1.099, 1.157), P < 0.001), and a reduced length of hospital stay (WMD = -1.215, 95% CI = (-1.58, -0.85), P < 0.001). Furthermore, UGHR repositioning was associated with a diminished overall complication rate (RR = 0.296, 95% CI = (0.225, 0.389), P < 0.001) and a lowered incidence of perforation (RR = 0.405, 95% CI = (0.244, 0.670), P < 0.001). Conclusion: UGHR offers the benefits of being non-radioactive, achieving a shorter reduction time, demonstrating a higher success rate in repositioning in particular, resulting in a reduced length of postoperative hospital stay, and yielding a lower overall incidence of postoperative complications, including a reduced risk of associated perforations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil pollution with heavy metals has become a global issue that can be addressed via immobilization through the application of biochar. In the present study, we hypothesized that biochar derived from bamboo helps mitigate the toxicity of chromium (Cr) in wheat plants grown in soil contaminated with Cr at 0, 50, 100, and 200 mg kg−1. The biochar produced was brittle, porous, and alkaline with a surface area of 46.93 m2 g−1and pore size of 0.04 cm3 g−1. The elemental composition of biochar was carbon (C = 77.63%), oxygen (O = 18.32%), hydrogen (H = 2.81%), calcium (N = 1.07%), and sulfur (S = 0.17%) determined through energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy revealed the occurrence of carboxylic or phenolic, aliphatic, amide, and aromatic groups. The results of the toxicity study revealed that the interaction of various concentrations of Cr and biochar was significant for shoot and root biomass because both the parameters were sensitive to Cr at higher concentrations. For instance, Cr concentration with 50, 100, and 200 mg kg−1 reduced shoot dry biomass by 30.54%, 45.45%, and 69.94%; root dry biomass by 26.40%, 43.39%, and 57.14%; carotenoid contents by 5.50%, 25.86%, and 24.92%; stomatal conductance by 23.46%, 35.60%, and 44.34%; photosynthetic rate by 12.11%, 25.59%, and 40.16%; LRWC by 7.01%, 15.12%, and 26.52%; intercellular concentration by 10.95%, 20.73%, and 35.335%. In addition, wheat growth parameters such as proline and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents were increased in the presence of Cr in the range of 4.93 to 102.46% in roots, while 20 to 81.86% in shoots. Similarly, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) activities in roots were enhanced in the range of 7.26 to 84.81% and 34.63 to 93.74%, and 15.63 to 76.73% and 77.25 to 190.86% in shoots after the exposure of wheat plants to Cr at 50, 100, and 200 mg kg−1. On the other hand, catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POD) activities in shoots were significantly reduced upon exposure to Cr at 100 and 200 mg kg−1 suggesting that it was beyond the capacity of these antioxidants to scavenge reactive species. It was noted that biochar application at 10% significantly (P < 0.05) reduced MDA, proline contents, SOD, CAT, POX, and H2O2 activities in roots and shoots alleviating Cr toxicity at lower levels of treatments. Therefore, the present study concluded that strict measures should be taken for the removal of Cr from wastewater before they are discharged and used for irrigation purposes because the toxic effects of Cr were not completely alleviated at higher levels of Cr in the presence of biochar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guavas are typical tropical fruit with high nutritional and commercial value. Because of their thin skin and high metabolic rate, guavas are highly susceptible to water loss, physical damage, and spoilage, severely limiting their shelf-life. Guavas can typically only be stored for approximately one week at room temperature, making transportation, storage, and handling difficult, resulting in low profit margins in the industry. This review focuses on the physiological and biochemical changes and their molecular mechanisms which occur in postharvest guavas, and summarizes the various management strategies for extending the shelf-life of these sensitive fruits by means of physical and chemical preservation and their combinations. This review also suggests future directions and reference ideas for the development of safe and efficient shelf-life extension techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to explore the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and prognosis of extracranial malignant rhabdoid tumors (eMRTs) in children. A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies published in PUBMED, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) was conducted. The search was limited to studies published between Jan 1, 1990 to Dec 31, 2022, with the last search done on Jan 31, 2023. We identified 496 papers through the literature search, and 12 retrospective cohort studies with 398 patients were included. The pooled age at diagnosis for malignant rhabdoid tumor of the kidney (MRTK) was 10.009 months (95%CI (7.542–12.476)), while extracranial malignant rhabdoid tumor (EERT) was 25.917 months (95%CI (17.304–34.530)). Among the 398 patients with eMRTs, chemotherapy treatment rate (86.8% (95%CI (74.4–96.0%))) was more frequently than radiotherapy treatment (45.4% (95%CI (38.1–52.6%))). The rate of metastasis in all patients was 41.4% (95%CI (33.9–48.9%)), in which the lung metastasis was occupied 70.4% (95%CI (58.0–81.6%)). SMARCB1/INI1 mutation was up to 93.2% (95%CI (81.3–99.8%)). The rate of total surgical resection was 50.4% (95%CI (35.2–65.6%)), while pooled proportion of death in all patients was 68.7% (95%CI (56.9–79.5%)). Conclusion: EMRTs are highly malignant tumors associated with high mortality rates. The loss of SMARCB1/INI1 gene and the protein expression is observed in the vast majority of eMRTs patients. Patients that suffered MRTK are younger than patients with extrarenal EERT and are more prone to lung metastasis, but there is no significant difference in overall survival, possibly due to the higher rate of R0 resection of primary tumors in MRTK. Trial registration: The study was registered on PROSPERO with registration number CRD42023400985. What is Known: • Malignant rhabdoid tumor (MRT) is a rare and highly malignant tumor that may originate from embryonic stem cells. The incidence of MRT is exceptionally low, estimated at 0.00006%. • Malignant rhabdoid tumor of the kidney (MRTK) and extrarenal extra-cranial malignant rhabdoid tumor (EERT) tend to manifest between 11 to 18 months of age, with a 5-year survival rate of approximately 17%-36%. What is New: • There is no comprehensive meta-analysis or large-scale case series that reported to systematically introduce the eMRTs clinic outcome and prog-nosis based on largely pooled data. • This study performed a meta-analysis through an extensive literature search and clinical data analysis in order to mainly explore the clinical characteris-tics and prognosis of eMRTs, improving the understanding of eMRTs in children.. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Previous studies on physical activity (PA) and pelvic organ prolapse (POP) were largely limited to self-reported PA in athletes, soldiers, and women in postpartum. We aimed to investigate the association of accelerometer-measured PA and sedentary behavior with the risk of POP in middle-aged and elderly women. Methods: In this prospective cohort derived from the UK Biobank, the intensity and duration of PA and sedentary behavior were measured with wrist-worn accelerometers over a 7-day period in 2013–2015 for 47,674 participants (aged 42.8–77.9 years) without pre-existing POP. Participants were followed up until the end of 2022, during which incident POP was ascertained mainly by the electronic health records. Multivariable-adjusted Cox proportional hazards models and restricted cubic splines were used to assess the associations of interest. Isotemporal substitution models were applied to test the effects of substituting a type of activity with equivalent duration of others. Results: During a median follow-up of 8.0 years, 779 cases of POP were recorded. The duration of light-intensity PA (LPA) was positively whereas sedentary time was negatively associated with the risk of POP. Every additional 1 h/day of LPA elevated the risk of POP by 18% (95% confidence interval [CI], 10%–26%). In contrast, the risk decreased by 5% (95% CI, 0–8%) per 1 h/day increment in sedentary behavior. No associations were found between moderate-intensity PA (MPA) or vigorous-intensity PA (VPA) and POP, except that women who had a history of hysterectomy were more likely to develop POP when performing more VPA (53% higher risk for every additional 15 min/day). Substituting 1 h/day of LPA with equivalent sedentary time was associated with a 18% (95% CI, 11%–24%) lower risk of POP. The risk can also be reduced by 17% (95% CI, 7%–25%) through substituting 30 min/day of LPA with MPA. Conclusions: More time spent in LPA or less sedentary time was linked to an elevated risk of POP in middle-aged and elderly women, while MPA or VPA was not. Substituting LPA with equivalent duration of sedentary behavior or MPA may lower the risk of POP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several studies have demonstrated that exosomes (Exos) are involved in the regulation of macrophage polarization and osteoclast differentiation. However, the characteristics as well as roles of exosomes from human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLCs-Exos) in M1/M2 macrophage polarization and osteoclast differentiation remain unclear. Here, periodontal ligament cells were successfully extracted by method of improved Type-I collagen enzyme digestion. hPDLCs-Exos were extracted by ultracentrifugation. hPDLCs-Exos were identified by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) and western blotting (WB). Osteoclast differentiation was evaluated by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), WB and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining. M1/M2 macrophage polarization were evaluated by RT-qPCR and WB. The results showed hPDLCs-Exos promoted osteoclast differentiation and M2 macrophage polarization, but inhibited M1 macrophage polarization. Moreover, M1 macrophages inhibited osteoclast differentiation, whereas M2 macrophages promoted osteoclast differentiation. It has shown that hPDLCs-Exos promoted osteoclast differentiation by inhibiting M1 and promoting M2 macrophage polarization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Primary lung mucinous adenocarcinomas (LMAs) could be subclassified as the pure-solid, part-solid, and pneumonic types according to the findings of high-resolution computed tomography. This study aimed to expound on the clinicopathologic, radiologic, and prognostic characteristics of LMAs based on radiologic classification within a large set of patients. Methods: From November 2009 to December 2016, this study enrolled 294 resected LMAs, which were divided into the pure-solid (n = 169), part-solid (n = 87), and pneumonic (n = 38) types. The clinicopathologic and radiologic characteristics of the tumors were evaluated, and patient prognosis was determined through follow-up evaluation. Survival outcomes were calculated by Kaplan-Meier curves and compared using log-rank tests. The prognostic impact of clinicopathologic variables, including radiologic presentations, were evaluated by establishing a Cox proportional hazards model. Results: The LMAs were infrequently associated with lymph node metastasis (5.4 %), lymphatic/vascular invasion (4.4 %), or visceral pleural invasion (5.1 %). During the median 71-month follow-up period, recurrence was observed in 62 patients and death in 44 patients. The patients with pneumonic-type LMAs had a poorer prognosis (5-year recurrence-free survival [RFS], 23.7 %; 5-year overall survival [OS], 44.7 %) than those with the pure-solid type (RFS, 83.2 %; OS, 100 %) or part-solid type (RFS, 93.7 %; OS, 100 %). Besides, lymph node metastasis, emphysema, and clinical T stage were independent predictors of RFS and OS. Conclusion: Solitary-type LMA patients had excellent prognoses, whereas the survival outcomes for pneumonic-type LMA patients were dismal. Furthermore, pneumonic-type LMA patients were prone to intrapulmonary metastasis by means of aerogenous dissemination rather than distant metastasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has played an important role in the prevention and treatment of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic in China. The integration of Chinese and Western medicine is an important feature of Chinese COVID-19 prevention and treatment. According to a series of evidence-based studies, TCM can reduce the infection rate of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 in high-risk groups. For patients with mild and moderate forms of COVID-19, TCM can relieve the related signs and symptoms, shorten the period of nucleic-acid negative conversion, and reduce conversion rate to the severe form of the disease. For COVID-19 patients with severe and critical illnesses, TCM can improve inflammatory indicators and blood oxygen saturation, shorten the hospital stay, and reduce the mortality rate. During recovery, TCM can improve patients' symptoms, promote organ function recovery, boost the quality of patients' life, and reduce the nucleic-acid repositive conversion rate. A series of mechanism research studies revealed that capability of TCM to treat COVID-19 through antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects, immune regulation, and protection of organ function via a multicomponent, multitarget, and multipathway approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: The protein factors for the specific C‐to‐U RNA editing events in plant mitochondria and chloroplasts possess unique arrays of RNA‐binding pentatricopeptide repeats (PPRs) linked to carboxy‐terminal cytidine deaminase DYW domains via the extension motifs E1 and E2. The E1 and E2 motifs have distant similarities to tetratricopeptide repeats known to mediate protein–protein interactions but their precise function is unclear. Here, we investigate the tolerance of PPR56 and PPR65, two functionally characterized RNA editing factors of the moss Physcomitrium patens, for the creation of chimeras by variably replacing their C‐terminal protein regions. Making use of a heterologous RNA editing assay system in Escherichia coli we find that heterologous DYW domains can strongly restrict or widen the spectrum of off‐targets in the bacterial transcriptome for PPR56. Surprisingly, our data suggest that these changes are not only caused by the preference of a given heterologous DYW domain for the immediate sequence environment of the cytidine to be edited but also by a long‐range impact on the nucleotide selectivity of the upstream PPRs. Significance Statement: DYW domains affect upstream PPR arrays for RNA recognition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neuronal abnormalities are closely associated with major depressive disorder (MDD). Available evidence suggests a role for microRNAs (miRNAs) in regulating the expression of genes involved in MDD. Hence, miRNAs that can be potential therapeutic targets need to be identified. Methods: A mouse model of chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) was used to evaluate the function of miRNAs in MDD. miR‐144‐5p was screened from the hippocampi of CUS mice based on sequencing results. Adenovirus‐associated vectors were used to overexpress or knockdown miR‐144‐5p in mice. BpV(pic) and LY294002 were used to determine the relationship between miR‐144‐5p target genes PTEN and TLR4 in neuronal impairment caused by miR‐144‐5p deficiency. Western blotting, immunofluorescence, ELISA immunosorbent assay, and Golgi staining were used to detect neuronal abnormalities. Serum samples from healthy individuals and patients with MDD were used to detect miR‐144‐5p levels in the serum and serum exosomes using qRT‐PCR. Results: miR‐144‐5p expression was significantly decreased within the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) of CUS mice. Upregulation of miR‐144‐5p in the DG ameliorated depression‐like behavior in CUS mice and attenuated neuronal abnormalities by directly targeting PTEN and TLR4 expression. Furthermore, miR‐144‐5p knockdown in normal mice led to depression‐like behavior via inducing neuronal abnormalities, including abnormal neurogenesis, neuronal apoptosis, altered synaptic plasticity, and neuroinflammation. miR‐144‐5p deficiency‐mediated neuronal impairment was mediated by PI3K/Akt/FoxO1 signaling. Furthermore, miR‐144‐5p levels were downregulated in the sera of patients with MDD and associated with depressive symptoms. Consistently, serum exosome‐derived miR‐144‐5p levels were decreased in patients with MDD. Conclusion: miR‐144‐5p plays a vital role in regulating neuronal abnormalities in depression. Our findings provide translational evidence that miR‐144‐5p is a new potential therapeutic target for MDD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) is a significant burden of morbidity and mortality among elderly people around the world. Epidemiological data with complete CSVD evaluations and a large sample size in the general population are still limited. Methods: Community-dwelling residents in Lishui city in China from the cross-sectional survey of the Polyvascular Evaluation for Cognitive Impairment and Vascular Events (PRECISE) study were included in this study from 2017 to 2019. All participants underwent 3 Tesla brain magnetic resonance images to assess CSVD imaging markers. Demographic and risk factor data were collected. The general and age-specific prevalence of lacune, confluent white matter hyperintensity (WMH), moderate-severe enlarged perivascular spaces (EPVS), cerebral microbleed (CMB), and total CSVD score (an ordinal scale from 0 to 4, counting the presence of four imaging markers of CSVD) was evaluated. Associations between vascular risk factors and these markers were analyzed by multivariable logistic regression. Results: A total of 3,063 participants were enrolled. The mean age was 61.2 years and 46.5% were men. The most prevalent CSVD marker was confluent WMH (16.7%), followed by CMB (10.2%), moderate-severe EPVS in the basal ganglia (BG-EPVS) (9.8%), and lacune (5.6%). 30.5% of the participants have at least one of the four markers (total CSVD score ≥1 points). The prevalence of CSVD markers increases as age increases. Age and hypertension were independent risk factors for four CSVD markers and the total CSVD score. Conclusions: In this Chinese cohort with community-based adults aged 50–75 years, our findings showed a prevalence of 30.5% for CSVD. The most prevalent CSVD marker was confluent WMH, followed by CMB, moderate-severe BG-EPVS, and lacune. The risk factors for CSVD must be strictly screened and controlled in adults living in the community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we report the development of iron-catalyzed benzylic C–H oxidative amidation reactions via photoinduced ligand-to-metal charge transfer (LMCT). These reactions exhibit a broad substrate scope (60 examples) and offer operationally simple, scalable procedures for accessing valuable products from methylarenes in a single step. Mechanistic studies and control experiments confirm the participation of a photogenerated chlorine radical in facilitating the hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) from the benzylic C–H bond to initiate the reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: General anesthesia can induce cognitive deficits in both humans and rodents, correlating with pathological alterations in the hippocampus. However, whether general anesthesia affects olfactory behaviors remains controversial as clinical studies have produced inconsistent results. Therefore, we aimed to investigate how olfactory behaviors and neuronal activity are affected by isoflurane exposure in adult mice. Methods: The olfactory detection test, olfactory sensitivity test, and olfactory preference/avoidance test were used to examine olfactory function. In vivo electrophysiology was performed in awake, head‐fixed mice to record single‐unit spiking and local field potentials in the olfactory bulb (OB). We also performed patch‐clamp recordings of mitral cell activity. For morphological studies, immunofluorescence and Golgi–Cox staining were applied. Results: Repeated exposure to isoflurane impaired olfactory detection in adult mice. The main olfactory epithelium, the first region exposed to anesthetics, displayed increased proliferation of basal stem cells. In the OB, a crucial hub for olfactory processing, repeated isoflurane exposure increased the odor responses of mitral/tufted cells. Furthermore, the odor‐evoked high gamma response was decreased after isoflurane exposure. Whole‐cell recordings further indicated that repeated isoflurane exposure increased the excitability of mitral cells, which may be due to weakened inhibitory input in isoflurane‐exposed mice. In addition, elevated astrocyte activation and glutamate transporter‐1 expression in the OB were observed in isoflurane‐exposed mice. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that repeated isoflurane exposure impairs olfactory detection by increasing neuronal activity in the OB in adult mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mitochondrial C-to-U RNA editing factor PPR56 of the moss Physcomitrium patens is an RNA-binding pentatricopeptide repeat protein equipped with a terminal DYW-type cytidine deaminase domain. Transferred into Escherichia coli, PPR56 works faithfully on its two native RNA editing targets, nad3eU230SL and nad4eU272SL, and also converts cytidines into uridines at over 100 off-targets in the bacterial transcriptome. Accordingly, PPR56 is attractive for detailed mechanistic studies in the heterologous bacterial setup, allowing for scoring differential RNA editing activities of many target and protein variants in reasonable time. Here, we report (i) on the effects of numerous individual and combined PPR56 protein and target modifications, (ii) on the spectrum of off-target C-to-U editing in the bacterial background transcriptome for PPR56 and two variants engineered for target re-direction and (iii) on combinations of targets in tandem or separately at the 5'- and 3'-ends of large mRNAs. The latter experimentation finds enhancement of RNA editing at weak targets in many cases, including cox3eU290SF as a new candidate mitogenome target. We conclude that C-to-U RNA editing can be much enhanced by transcript features also outside the region ultimately targeted by PPRs of a plant editing factor, possibly facilitated by its enrichment or scanning along transcripts. Author summary: RNA-binding pentatricopeptide repeat (PPR) proteins convert specific cytidines to uridines in mitochondrial and plastid transcripts of land plants to correct genetic information. PPR protein PPR56 is assigned to two editing sites in nad3 and nad4 transcripts of the moss Physcomitrium patens. Transferred into Escherichia coli, PPR56 edits its co-delivered native targets, but also more than 100 specific cytidines in endogenous bacterial transcripts. We have used the E. coli editing system to intensively study the editing properties of PPR56 as a prime example of a plant-type C-to-U RNA editing factor. We confirm that the selection of editing sites depends on the PPR region of the editing factor, which recognizes the RNA target upstream of the C to be edited. Some single amino acid modifications within this region can re-direct the editing factor to new targets, but others reduce or prevent editing completely. Modifications on the target side even outside of the RNA region recognized by the editing factor also affect editing efficiencies significantly. The combination of targets, for example, enhances the editing of the weaker target in many cases. Thus, not only the direct target-protein interaction, but also other transcript features influence the final selection of editing sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) vaccines are a relatively new class of vaccines that have shown great promise in the immunotherapy of a wide variety of infectious diseases and cancer. In the past 2 years, SARS‐CoV‐2 mRNA vaccines have contributed tremendously against SARS‐CoV2, which has prompted the arrival of the mRNA vaccine research boom, especially in the research of cancer vaccines. Compared with conventional cancer vaccines, mRNA vaccines have significant advantages, including efficient production of protective immune responses, relatively low side effects and lower cost of acquisition. In this review, we elaborated on the development of cancer vaccines and mRNA cancer vaccines, as well as the potential biological mechanisms of mRNA cancer vaccines and the latest progress in various tumour treatments, and discussed the challenges and future directions for the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Desvenlafaxine succinate is a selective serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor for the treatment of major depressive disorder. The pharmacokinetic profile of desvenlafaxine succinate at the clinically recommended dose of 50 mg in Chinese healthy subjects has been reported rarely. The objective of this study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetics and bioequivalence of desvenlafaxine succinate in Chinese healthy subjects. A single‐dose, open‐label, randomized, two‐way crossover study with a 7‐day washout period was conducted. A total of 88 individuals were incorporated to show bioequivalence of a generic and a reference drug, with 48 individuals in the fasting state and 40 receiving a high‐fat diet. Finally, 46 and 38 individuals completed the fasting and the fed study, respectively. The 90% confidence intervals of the adjusted geometric mean ratios for maximum plasma concentration, area under the concentration–time curve from time zero to the last measurable concentration, and area under the concentration–time curve from time zero to infinity all fell in the bioequivalent interval of 80%–125% in both the fasting and fed states. A total of 33 adverse events were reported, and all were mild or moderate in severity. In summary, the generic and reference formulations were bioequivalent, with no observable safety differences in the fasting/fed state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intestinal cancer is one of the most frequent and lethal types of cancer. Modeling intestinal cancer using organoids has emerged in the last decade. Human intestinal cancer organoids are physiologically relevant in vitro models, which provides an unprecedented opportunity for fundamental and applied research in colorectal cancer. "Human intestinal cancer organoids" is the first set of guidelines on human intestinal organoids in China, jointly drafted and agreed by the experts from the Chinese Society for Cell Biology and its branch society: the Chinese Society for Stem Cell Research. This standard specifies terms and definitions, technical requirements, test methods for human intestinal cancer organoids, which apply to the production and quality control during the process of manufacturing and testing of human intestinal cancer organoids. It was released by the Chinese Society for Cell Biology on 24 September 2022. We hope that the publication of this standard will guide institutional establishment, acceptance and execution of proper practocal protocols, and accelerate the international standardization of human intestinal cancer organoids for clinical development and therapeutic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oligodendrocytes generate myelin sheaths vital for the formation, health, and function of the central nervous system. Mounting evidence suggests that receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are crucial for oligodendrocyte differentiation and myelination in the CNS. It was recently reported that discoidin domain receptor 1 (Ddr1), a collagen-activated RTK, is expressed in oligodendrocyte lineage. However, its specific expression stage and functional role in oligodendrocyte development in the CNS remain to be determined. In this study, we report that Ddr1 is selectively upregulated in newly differentiated oligodendrocytes in the early postnatal CNS and regulates oligodendrocyte differentiation and myelination. Ddr1 knock-out mice of both sexes displayed compromised axonal myelination and apparent motor dysfunction. Ddr1 deficiency alerted the ERK pathway, but not the AKT pathway in the CNS. In addition, Ddr1 function is important for myelin repair after lysolecithin-induced demyelination. Taken together, the current study described, for the first time, the role of Ddr1 in myelin development and repair in the CNS, providing a novel molecule target for the treatment of demyelinating diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: High expression of inhibitor of DNA binding 1 (ID1) correlates with poor prognosis in colorectal cancer (CRC). Aberrant enhancer activation in regulating ID1 transcription is limited. Methods: Immunohistochemistry (IHC), quantitative RT-PCR (RT-qPCR) and Western blotting (WB) were used to determine the expression of ID1. CRISPR-Cas9 was used to generate ID1 or enhancer E1 knockout cell lines. Dual-luciferase reporter assay, chromosome conformation capture assay and ChIP-qPCR were used to determine the active enhancers of ID1. Cell Counting Kit 8, colony-forming, transwell assays and tumorigenicity in nude mice were used to investigate the biological functions of ID1 and enhancer E1. Results: Human CRC tissues and cell lines expressed a higher level of ID1 than normal controls. ID1 promoted CRC cell proliferation and colony formation. Enhancer E1 actively regulated ID1 promoter activity. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) bound to ID1 promoter and enhancer E1 to regulate their activity. The inhibitor of STAT3 Stattic attenuated ID1 promoter and enhancer E1 activity and the expression of ID1. Enhancer E1 knockout down-regulated ID1 expression level and cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo. Conclusions: Enhancer E1 is positively regulated by STAT3 and contributes to the regulation of ID1 to promote CRC cell progression and might be a potential target for anti-CRC drug studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organoids have attracted great interest for disease modelling, drug discovery and development, and tissue growth and homeostasis investigations. However, lack of standards for quality control has become a prominent obstacle to limit their translation into clinic and other applications. "Human intestinal organoids" is the first guideline on human intestinal organoids in China, jointly drafted and agreed by the experts from the Chinese Society for Cell Biology and its branch society: the Chinese Society for Stem Cell Research. This standard specifies terms and definitions, technical requirements, test methods, inspection rules for human intestinal organoids, which is applicable to quality control during the process of manufacturing and testing of human intestinal organoids. It was originally released by the Chinese Society for Cell Biology on 24 September 2022. We hope that the publication of this standard will guide institutional establishment, acceptance and execution of proper practical protocols and accelerate the international standardization of human intestinal organoids for applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) is a widely used standard therapy for critically ill patients with acute kidney injury (AKI). Despite its effectiveness, treatment is often interrupted due to clot formation in the extracorporeal circuits. Anticoagulation is a crucial strategy for preventing extracorporeal circuit clotting during CRRT. While various anticoagulation options are available, there were still no studies synthetically comparing the efficacy and safety of these anticoagulation options. Methods: Electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane database) were searched from inception to October 31, 2022. All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that examined the following outcomes were included: filter lifespan, all-cause mortality, length of stay, duration of CRRT, recovery of kidney function, adverse events and costs. Results: Thirty-seven RCTs from 38 articles, comprising 2648 participants with 14 comparisons, were included in this network meta-analysis (NMA). Unfractionated heparin (UFH) and regional citrate anticoagulation (RCA) are the most frequently used anticoagulants. Compared to UFH, RCA was found to be more effective in prolonging filter lifespan (MD 12.0, 95% CI 3.8 to 20.2) and reducing the risk of bleeding. Regional-UFH plus Prostaglandin I2 (Regional-UFH + PGI2) appeared to outperform RCA (MD 37.0, 95% CI 12.0 to 62.0), LMWH (MD 41.3, 95% CI 15.6 to 67.0), and other evaluated anticoagulation options in prolonging filter lifespan. However, only a single included RCT with 46 participants had evaluated Regional-UFH + PGI2. No statistically significant difference was observed in terms of length of ICU stay, all-cause mortality, duration of CRRT, recovery of kidney function, and adverse events among most evaluated anticoagulation options. Conclusions: Compared to UFH, RCA is the preferred anticoagulant for critically ill patients requiring CRRT. The SUCRA analysis and forest plot of Regional-UFH + PGI2 are limited, as only a single study was included. Additional high-quality studies are necessary before any recommendation of Regional-UFH + PGI2. Further larger high-quality RCTs are desirable to strengthen the evidence on the best choice of anticoagulation options to reduce all-cause mortality and adverse events and promote the recovery of kidney function. Trial registration The protocol of this network meta-analysis was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022360263). Registered 26 September 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schistosomiasis is an immunopathogenic disease characterized by egg granuloma and fibrosis. The hepatic fibrosis of schistosomiasis is caused by the coordinated action of local immune cells, liver-resident cells and related cytokines around the eggs of the liver. B-cell-activating factor (BAFF), expressed in many cells, is an essential factor for promoting the survival, differentiation, and maturation of cells. The overexpression of BAFF is closely related to many autoimmune diseases and fibrosis, but has not been reported to play a role in liver fibrosis caused by schistosomiasis. In the study, we found that, during Schistosoma japonicum (S. japonicum) infection in mice, the level of BAFF and its receptor BAFF-R progressively increased, then decreased with the extension of infection time, which was consistent with the progression of hepatic granuloma and fibrosis. Anti-BAFF treatment attenuated the histopathological damage in the liver of infected mice. The average areas of individual granulomas and liver fibrosis in anti-BAFF treatment mice were significantly lower than those in control mice, respectively. Anti-BAFF treatment increased the IL-10, decreased IL-4, IL-6, IL-17A, TGF-β, and downregulated the antibody level against S. japonicum antigens. These results suggested that BAFF acts a strong player in the immunopathology of schistosomiasis. Anti-BAFF treatment may influence Th2 and Th17 responses, and reduce the inflammatory reaction and fibrosis of schistosomiasis liver egg granuloma. It is suggested that BAFF might be a prospective target for the development of new methods to treat schistosomiasis liver fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]