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Tumor recurrence and tissue regeneration are two major challenges in the postoperative treatment of cancer. Current research hotspots are focusing on developing novel scaffold materials that can simultaneously suppress tumor recurrence and promote tissue repair. Here, we propose a microfluidic 3D-printed methacrylate fish gelatin (F-GelMA@BBR) scaffold loaded with berberine (BBR) for the postoperative treatment of gastric cancer. The F-GelMA@BBR scaffold displayed a significant killing effect on gastric cancer MKN-45 cells in vitro and demonstrated excellent anti-recurrence efficiency in gastric cancer postoperative models. In vitro experiments have shown that F-GelMA@BBR exhibits significant cytotoxicity on gastric cancer cells while maintaining the cell viability of normal cells. The results of in vivo experiments show that F-GelMA@BBR can significantly suppress the tumor volume to 49.7 % of the control group. In addition, the scaffold has an ordered porous structure and good biocompatibility, which could support the attachment and proliferation of normal cells to promote tissue repair at the tumor resection site. These features indicated that such scaffold material is a promising candidate for postoperative tumor treatment in the practical application.

Procalcitonin (PCT) serves as a crucial biomarker utilized in diverse clinical contexts, including sepsis diagnosis and emergency departments. Its applications extend to identifying pathogens, assessing infection severity, guiding drug administration, and implementing theranostic strategies. However, current clinical deployed methods cannot meet the needs for accurate or real-time quantitative monitoring of PCT. This review aims to introduce these emerging PCT immunoassay technologies, focusing on analyzing their advantages in improving detection performances, such as easy operation and high precision. The fundamental principles and characteristics of state-of-the-art methods are first introduced, including chemiluminescence, immunofluorescence, latex-enhanced turbidity, enzyme-linked immunosorbent, colloidal gold immunochromatography, and radioimmunoassay. Then, improved methods using new materials and new technologies are briefly described, for instance, the combination with responsive nanomaterials, Raman spectroscopy, and digital microfluidics. Finally, the detection performance parameters of these methods and the clinical importance of PCT detection are also discussed.

Self-healing hydrogels are promising biomedical materials owing to their ability to restore the structure fracture and regain the initial functions. However, a comprehensive review of the dynamic hydrogels based on the Knoevenagel Condensation (KC) for wound healing is yet lacking. Here, we first summarize the recent advances in self-healing hydrogels constructed by the KC reaction, and then systematically illustrate the reaction process and self-healing mechanisms. The features of these hydrogels, for instance, self-healing characteristics, injectability, thermosensitivity, as well as thermoplastic properties are also highlighted. In addition, a series of hydrogels constructed by this reaction in the presence of various catalysts are presented and discussed. Furthermore, the potential application within the rapidly expanding field of wound healing is discussed in detail. Finally, recommendations to guide the designing strategies and a perspective on challenges faced by this kind of hydrogels are also described.

Abstract To deal with intra‐abdominal sepsis, one of the major global causes of death in hospitalized patients, efficient abscess drainage is crucial. Despite decades of advances, traditional catheters have demonstrated poor drainage and absorption properties due to their simple tubular structures and their dense nonporous surface. Herein, inspired by porous sponges and fractal roots, a multifaceted hydrogel catheter with effective drainage, absorptive, and robust properties, is presented. Its unique fractal structures provide extensive internal branching and a high specific surface area for effective drainage, while the hierarchical porous structures provide a wide range of absorption capabilities. Additionally, its distinctive multi‐interpenetration network maintains robust and appropriate mechanical properties, even after absorption multiple times of liquid and mechanical disturbance, allowing for intact removal from the abdominal cavity without harm to the animal in vivo. Besides, the loaded antimicrobial peptides are capable of being released in situ to inhibit the potential for infections. In vivo experiments have demonstrated that this hydrogel catheter efficiently removes lethal abscesses and improves survival. It is believed that this innovative and practical catheter will create a future precedent for hydrogel drainage devices for more effective management of intra‐abdominal sepsis.

Abstract A film with elaborate microstructures that offers biomimetic properties and multi functionalities is highly desired in wound healing. Here, we develop an aligned hydrogel fiber film integrated with multi-active constituents to promote wound healing. Such fiber films are designed and constructed by photo-crosslinking the methacrylate gelatin (GelMA) doped with silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) and iridium nanoparticles coated with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP-Ir NPs) in the precursor solution using electrospinning. The nature of GelMA hydrogel and the aligned arrangement of nanofibers endow the film with high-water content, self-degradability, improved bionic characteristics, oriented cell growth, and improved cell proliferation and migration. Moreover, the encapsulated nanozymes and Ag NPs offer the fiber film with superior reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging and antibacterial capability. The infected wound model shows that the multi-active hydrogel fiber film can reduce inflammation by killing bacteria and decomposing ROS, which accelerates the growth of new blood vessels and granulation tissue. Benefitting from these features, the versatile aligned GelMA fiber film demonstrates the clinically translational potential for wound healing.

The early detection of procalcitonin (PCT) is crucial for diagnosing bacterial infections due to its high sensitivity and specificity. While colloidal gold colorimetric and immune-chemiluminescence methods are commonly employed in clinical detection, the former lacks sensitivity, and the latter faces challenges with a brief luminescence process and an elevated background. Here, we introduce a novel approach for the quantitative analysis of PCT using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), leveraging the enhanced properties of metal nanoparticles. Simultaneously, we employed a magnetic nanoparticle coating and surface biofunctionalization modification to immobilize PCT-trapping antibodies, creating the required immune substrates. The resulting magnetic nanoparticles and antibody complexes, acting as carriers and recognition units, exhibited superparamagnetism and the specific recognition of biomarkers. Then, this complex efficiently underwent magnetic separation with an applied magnetic field, streamlining the cumbersome steps of traditional ELISA and significantly reducing the detection time. In conclusion, the exploration of immunomagnetic bead detection technology based on surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy holds crucial practical significance for the sensitive detection of PCT.

Epithelium and endothelium, occupying a significant proportion of cells in the human body, play a crucial role in maintaining organs’ normal structure and function. Various methods have been employed to study the physiology and pathology of epithelium and endothelium. However, these conventional methods, such as animal trials and two-dimensional (2D) cell culture, fail to precisely simulate the complex biology of the human body due to the species difference and lack of the native microenvironment in human systems, which is essential for cell culture. To overcome these limitations, epithelium/endothelium on chips have been proposed, which can mimic the pathophysiology of native human systems in a controllable way. This review introduces the recent progress in epithelium/endothelium on chips, aiming to provide a comprehensive review of the fabrication and application of this technology. We first depict the chips’ basic components, materials, and fabrication techniques. Then, we focus on different chip types, from single cell-on-chip, single organ/tissue-on-chip, to multi-organs-on-chip. After that, we describe the biomedical applications such as in vitro study of the physiology and interaction of organs, construction of disease models, and drug development. Finally, the recent challenges and future outlook of epithelium/endothelium on chips are discussed.

Liver plays a critical role in drug metabolism and nowadays multi-cellular culture systems aiming at imitating liver-specific morphology and functionality are advancing robustly. Numerous immortalized or stem cell-induced hepatic cell lines have been investigated to enhance the hepatic phenotype in establishing co-culture systems. Owing to the robust progresses of microtechnology and bioengineering, two-dimensional (2D) co-cultures such as sandwich culture and micropatterned co-culture systems have emerged. Controllably arranging the hepatocytes and fibroblasts allows bio-mimic homotypic and heterotypic interactions, and the miniaturized co-culture platform realizes high-throughput and sensitive drug screening. Yet, to address the rapid dedifferentiation and the decreased maintenance of hepatic functions existing in 2D cellular systems, various three-dimensional (3D) and dynamic hepatocyte co-culturing formats have been established to obtain more physiologically relevant liver microsystems and prolonged hepatic functionalities, such as spheroid barcodes, liver organoids, bioengineered hepatic spheroids, and microfluidic perfused liver-on-a-chip. In this review, we first introduce the typical structural color spheroid barcodes which facilitate multiple screening and testing. Then we sketch various advances in liver-imitating cellular co-culture protocols through representative examples. Meanwhile, we summarize current difficulties and propose the prospects of bioengineered liver-on-barcode systems for reliable and high-throughput drug screening.

When organs, especially external organs are injured, pathogens and excessive water loss can threaten the wound healing process and cause local irreversible tissue damage. Here, novel natural κ-Carrageenan microparticles (MPs) able to deliver bioactive proteins and small molecules to the wound surface for promoted regeneration were developed using microfluidic electrospray. The side chains of κ-Carrageenan were modified with methacrylate pendant groups to make the monomer photonic cross-linkable. By changing the concentration of methacrylated-κ-Carrageenan, different porosities of MPs with controllable drug loading were achieved. The size of the MPs can also be tailored by adjusting the voltage of the applied electric field. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and antimicrobial peptides Eumenitin were co-loaded into the microparticles (VEGF-Eumenitin-MPs) and released sustainedly in phosphate-buffered saline. The VEGF-Eumenitin-MPs had high biocompatibility and intensive antibacterial activities for bacteria. Furthermore, the antibacterial and angiogenetic properties of the VEGF-Eumenitin-MPs were demonstrated in a infectious wound model and the chronic wound healing process was significantly enhanced in vivo. Therefore, the developed porous MPs with sustained drug release properties have the potential to serve as a platform to deliver bioactive proteins and small molecules to the wound surface for promoted regeneration.

Abstract Background Osteoarthritis (OA) is the common chronic degenerative joint bone disease that is mainly featured by joint stiffness and cartilage degradation. Icariin (ICA), an extract from Epimedium, has been preliminarily proven to show anti-osteoporotic and anti-inflammatory effects in OA. However, the underlying mechanisms of ICA on chondrocytes need to be elucidated. Methods LPS-treated chondrocytes and monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-treated Wistar rats were used as models of OA in vitro and in vivo, respectively. LDH and MTT assays were performed to detect cytotoxicity and cell viability. The expression levels of NLRP3, IL-1β, IL-18, MMP-1, MMP-13, and collagen II were detected by qRT-PCR and Western blotting. The release levels of IL-1β and IL-18 were detected by ELISA assay. Caspase-1 activity was assessed by flow cytometry. Immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry were used to examine the level of NLRP3 in chondrocytes and rat cartilage, respectively. The progression of OA was monitored with hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining and safranin O/fast green staining. Results ICA could suppress LPS-induced inflammation and reduction of collagen formation in chondrocytes. Furthermore, ICA could inhibit NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated caspase-1 signaling pathway to alleviate pyroptosis induced by LPS. Overexpression of NLRP3 reversed the above changes caused by ICA. It was further confirmed in the rat OA model that ICA alleviated OA by inhibiting NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis. Conclusion ICA inhibited OA via repressing NLRP3/caspase-1 signaling-mediated pyroptosis in models of OA in vitro and in vivo, suggesting that ICA might be a promising compound in the treatment of OA.

Abstract Molybdenum (Mo), as a nontoxic and low‐cost transition metal, has been employed for synthesis of various Mo‐based nanomaterials with unique structures and physicochemical features to achieve various properties. Especially, bioinspired Mo‐based nanomaterials show great potential for the construction of novel nanozyme catalysts due to their variable oxidation states. Overcoming drawbacks of natural enzymes, bioinspired Mo‐based nanozymes not only provide effective catalytic sites or multivalent elements to mimic natural enzymes, but also present multiple functions for interfacing with various biomicroenvironments. Construction of vast Mo‐based nanozymes has attracted enormous interest in biomedicine. Exogenous/endogenous stimuli enable the user to tailor the catalytic activities of Mo‐based nanozymes. Additionally, tunable physicochemical properties also have a significant influence on their enzyme‐like activity. In this review, we comprehensively summarize typical synthesis strategies, catalytic mechanism, and types of enzyme‐like activity of the bioinspired Mo‐based nanozymes. We mainly highlight desired merits of bioinspired Mo‐based nanozymes related to tunable enzyme‐like activity, stability, and multifunctionality through regulating their physicochemical properties. Furthermore, we intend to discuss their biomedical applications in biosensing and detection, oncotherapy, and combating bacteria. Finally, current challenges and future perspectives of the Mo‐based nanozymes are also proposed.

Mechanical stimuli play crucial roles in bone remodeling and resorption. Osteopontin (OPN), a marker for osteoblasts, is important in cell communication and matrix mineralization, and is known to function during mechanotransduction. Hypergravity is a convenient approach to forge mechanical stimuli on cells. It has positive effects on certain markers of osteoblast maturation, making it a possible strategy for bone tissue engineering. We investigated the effects of hypergravity on OPN expression and cell signaling in osteoblasts. Hypergravity treatment at 20 g for 24 hours upregulated OPN expression in MC3T3-E1 cells at the protein as well as mRNA level. Hypergravity promoted OPN expression by facilitating focal adhesion assembly, strengthening actin bundles, and increasing Runx2 expression. In the hypergravity-triggered OPN expression pathway, focal adhesion assembly-associated FAK phosphorylation was upstream of actin bundle assembly.

The electronic intrinsic surface states in wurtzite Zn-IV-N2 (with group- IV = Sn , Ge and Si) semiconductors were investigated using an intermediate-coupling variational approach considering the electron–surface optical phonon interaction influence. The intrinsic surface state energy distribution and the average penetrating depth of surface state eigen-wave function of the electron have been evaluated numerically by changing the surface potential barrier V 0 for wurtzite ZnSnN2, ZnGeN2 and ZnSiN2, respectively. The results show that the electronic intrinsic surface state energy increased linearly with increasing surface potential barrier V 0 for all the calculated materials. The result also indicated that the electronic intrinsic surface state energies variations due to the influence of electron–surface optical phonon interaction are dozens of meV. The average penetrating depth of electronic surface state eigen-wave function is independent of V 0 . Its value is no more than the corresponding material's lattice constant. The electronic scattering by surface optical phonon should be taken into account in the study of the intrinsic surface state of electrons in the group of Zn-IV-nitrides (with IV = Sn , Ge and Si) semiconductors, especially for materials having strong electron–phonon interaction and wide band gap. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Naturally existing glycoproteins through post-translational protein glycosylation are highly heterogeneous, which not only impedes the structure-function studies, but also hinders the development of their potential medical usage. Chemical synthesis represents one of the most powerful tools to provide the structurally well-defined glycoforms. Being the key step of glycoprotein synthesis, glycosylation usually takes place at serine, threonine, and asparagine residues, leading to the predominant formation of the O- and N-glycans, respectively. However, other amino acid residues containing oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur, and nucleophilic carbon atoms have also been found to be glycosylated. These diverse glycoprotein linkages, occurring from microorganisms to plants and animals, play also pivotal biological roles, such as in cell-cell recognition and communication. The availability of these homogenous rare glycopeptides and glycoproteins can help decipher the glyco-code for developing therapeutic agents. This review highlights the chemical approaches for assembly of the functional glycopeptides and glycoproteins bearing these "rare" carbohydrate-amino acid linkages between saccharide and canonical amino acid residues and their derivatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Multiphase information fusion and spatiotemporal feature modeling play a crucial role in the task of four-phase CT lesion recognition. In this paper, we propose a four-phase CT lesion recognition algorithm based on multiphase information fusion framework and spatiotemporal prediction module. Specifically, the multiphase information fusion framework uses the interactive perception mechanism to realize the channel-spatial information interactive weighting between multiphase features. In the spatiotemporal prediction module, we design a 1D deep residual network to integrate multiphase feature vectors, and use the GRU architecture to model the temporal enhancement information between CT slices. In addition, we employ CT image pseudo-color processing for data augmentation and train the whole network based on a multi-task learning framework. We verify the proposed network on a four-phase CT dataset. The experimental results show that the proposed network can effectively fuse the multi-phase information and model the temporal enhancement information between CT slices, showing excellent performance in lesion recognition.

In this paper, the exciton binding energy and radiation lifetime in type I and II structures of CdTe/Cd 1 − x ZnxS strained core/shell spherical quantum dots under the hydrostatic pressure have been studied by using the variational method within the continuous dielectric model and effective mass approximation. The results show that for these two structures, the exciton binding energies with and without strain decrease with the increasing core radius but increase with the increasing pressure. The exciton binding energy with strain is smaller than that without strain. For type I structure, the effect of strain is small, and the radiation lifetime decreases monotonically with the increasing pressure. By contrast, for type II structure, the effects of shell radius and strain on the exciton binding energy are obvious, and the radiation lifetime increases first and then decreases with the increasing pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a genetically heterogeneous disease in which glutamine (Gln) contributes to AML progression. Therefore, this study aimed to identify potential prognostic biomarkers for AML based on Gln metabolism-related genes. Methods Gln-related genes that were differentially expressed between Cancer Genome Atlas-based AML and normal samples were analyzed using the limma package. Univariate, least absolute shrinkage, selection operators, and stepwise Cox regression analyses were used to identify prognostic signatures. Risk score-based prognostic and nomogram models were constructed to predict the prognostic risk of AML. Subsequently, consistent cluster analysis was performed to stratify patients into different subtypes, and subtype-related module genes were screened using weighted gene co-expression network analysis. Results Through a series of regression analyses, HGF, ANGPTL3, MB, F2, CALR, EIF4EBP1, EPHX1, and PDHA1 were identified as potential prognostic biomarkers of AML. Prognostic and nomogram models constructed based on these genes could significantly differentiate between high- and low-risk AML with high predictive accuracy. The eight-signature also stratified patients with AML into two subtypes, among which Cluster 2 was prone to a high risk of AML prognosis. These two clusters exhibited different immune profiles. Of the subtype-related module genes, the HOXA and HOXB family genes may be genetic features of AML subtypes. Conclusion Eight Gln metabolism-related genes were identified as potential biomarkers of AML to predict prognostic risk. The molecular subtypes clustered by these genes enabled prognostic risk stratification.

In this work, peptides were extracted from Silver carp (SC) scales via protease hydrolysis and separated using two membranes (M1 and M2). The results revealed that the water: SC scale ratios of 50.6 mL/g, alkaline protease 1 (AP1) dose of 2313.6 U/mL, and pH of 8.14 were the optimal hydrolysis conditions, and the peptide yield reached 88.77 ± 0.32%. The optimal conditions of peptide separation were clarified: the operating pressure of the M1 (M2) was 0.25 (0.4) MPa, the liquid temperature was 30°C, and the operation time was 65 min. In this case, the permeability of the M1 (M2) reached 91.73 ± 96% (79.83 ± 7.23%), and the average molecular weight of the peptides was 758 Da (576 Da). Compared with M1 peptides, M2 peptides contained more acidic and aromatic amino acids exhibiting free-radical scavenging and tyrosinase inhibition properties. It might provide a way to utilize SC scales as a promising material to produce bioactive peptides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trophic relationships between species in ecosystems are characterized by food webs. However, there is less research on the differences in food web characteristics at larger spatial scales. This study discusses the spatial variations in food web structures across 13 freshwater ecosystems located east of the Hu Line, based on stable isotope techniques. The results show that there are significant spatial differences in the structure of the food web of the studied ecosystem, which is associated with human activities, seasonal variation, environmental factors, etc. Additionally, this study describes how fish exhibit different dietary strategies in response to the fluctuations of food resources, such as the temporal lag of stable isotopic values and changes in trophic ecological niche width (overlap or differentiation). Finally, we summarize the potential uncertainties in the application of stable isotope techniques, emphasizing the necessity to carefully consider these uncertainties when utilizing stable isotope data for ecological research to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the results. The study provides theoretical support for the regional-scale management of freshwater ecosystems.

Objectives To explore influencing factors for postoperative urinary retention (POUR) in cervical cancer patients and construct and validate a POUR prediction model.Design A prospective cohort study.Setting A large tertiary hospital specialised in child and maternal healthcare in Southwest China.Participants 1101 patients undergoing cervical cancer surgery at our hospital were enrolled in the analytic cohort between 1 July 2022 and 31 July 2023. Another 205 patients were enrolled in the external validation cohort between 1 August 2023 and 31 October 2023. Demographics and disease-related information were collected to construct a risk prediction model by logistic regression. Univariate analyses and a multivariate logistic regression analysis were conducted to determine possible influencing factors. The discrimination and accuracy of the model were assessed by the area under the curve (AUC) and the concordance index, respectively.Results Univariate analysis identified duration of surgery, intraoperative bleeding, presence of diabetes, hypertension, ureteral adhesion, wound healing classification, preoperative radio/chemotherapy, category of Body Mass Index, history of urinary diseases, history of caesarean section, postoperative urinary infection and use of analgesia pumps as potential influencing factors (p

Objectives To explore the postsurgery lived experiences of patients with colorectal cancer with a permanent ostomy for informing initiatives to improve patient care and future quantitative research.Design A descriptive qualitative phenomenological study.Setting We conducted this study in the Colorectal Cancer Division at the Cancer Center of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, a premier institution renowned for its comprehensive cancer care and research.Participants 12 patients who had undergone surgeries for colorectal cancer with a permanent ostomy.Results Our interviews revealed profound adjustments in the lives of colorectal cancer survivors living with permanent ostomies. Participants articulated a transition to a ‘new normal’, characterised by extensive daily life adjustments, psychological adaptation and ongoing management challenges. Key themes identified included the adaptation to a reshaped daily routine and altered perceptions of quality of life. Many faced substantial challenges in stoma care, requiring significant learning and adaptation. Psychological adaptations were marked by a redefinition of body autonomy and personal identity, alongside a recalibration of social interactions and privacy. The need for robust professional guidance and a comprehensive social support system was universally emphasised.Conclusions Patients with colorectal cancer with permanent ostomies navigate significant changes in their lives postsurgery, undertaking a complex process of reconstructing and adapting to a new normalcy. They recalibrate their physical, psychological and social well-being, demonstrating resilience and adaptability in the face of these challenges. Their pervasive expression of needs for information and support may reflect gaps in the existing patient education and support measures and communication strategies. Healthcare professionals and policy-makers should adopt a patient-centred approach acknowledging the multifaceted nature of postsurgery recovery and adaptation by fostering open communication, tailoring personalised education and facilitating supportive community networks.

In this study, we further modify the modified detailed balance model given by Sahin to make it applicable to more materials. We use the further modified model to study the conversion efficiency (CE) of a core/shell quantum-dot (QD) solar cell, which can convert from a type-I to a type-II structure as a function of its material composition. In addition, a size-dependent strain effect caused by the lattice mismatch is also considered because the original detailed balance model depends strongly on the bandgap of the material. The results show that the modified model used herein is valid for materials with a wide range of variable oscillator strengths and that the CE obtained with this model depends not only on the energy gap but also on the QD structure, so the results are very different for type-I and type-II QD structures. In addition, the results show that the size-dependent strain effect strongly influences the band structure of the materials, so the CEs with and without the strain effect are very different, especially for a type-II QD solar cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone defect repair and tumor recurrence are the main challenges in the postoperative treatment of bone tumors. The incorporation of zoledronate (ZOL) into scaffolds presents a promising approach, attributed to its osteogenic and anti-tumor properties. However, there are still some unfavorable factors that make it difficult to eradicate tumor cells at the surgical site, including drug rapid release, the insufficient anti-tumor efficacy of ZOL and the multidrug resistance of chemotherapy. Herein, a novel nano drug delivery platform mesoporous silicon-coated graphene oxide (GO/MSN) and ZOL loaded nanoparticle (GO/MSN-ZOL) were developed. Then PLLA/ GO/MSN-ZOL scaffold that integrates photothermal therapy (PTT) and chemotherapy was fabricated using poly (L-lactic acid) as raw materials by selective laser sintering (SLS) technology. The GO not only imparted scaffold with photothermal properties for localized tumor cell ablation but also significantly enhanced its anti-tumor efficacy through synergistic effects in combination with chemotherapy. The mesoporous structure and large specific surface area of MSN contribute to the sustained release of ZOL. Additionally, GO could promote osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), which in combine with ZOL’s osteoclast inhibition, enhances the bone repair capacity. This study offers a straightforward and promising strategy for treating tumor-related bone defects.

[INLINE:1] We previously reported that miR-124-3p is markedly upregulated in microglia-derived exosomes following repetitive mild traumatic brain injury. However, its impact on neuronal endoplasmic reticulum stress following repetitive mild traumatic brain injury remains unclear. In this study, we first used an HT22 scratch injury model to mimic traumatic brain injury, then co-cultured the HT22 cells with BV2 microglia expressing high levels of miR-124-3p. We found that exosomes containing high levels of miR-124-3p attenuated apoptosis and endoplasmic reticulum stress. Furthermore, luciferase reporter assay analysis confirmed that miR-124-3p bound specifically to the endoplasmic reticulum stress-related protein IRE1α, while an IRE1α functional salvage experiment confirmed that miR-124-3p targeted IRE1α and reduced its expression, thereby inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress in injured neurons. Finally, we delivered microglia-derived exosomes containing miR-124-3p intranasally to a mouse model of repetitive mild traumatic brain injury and found that endoplasmic reticulum stress and apoptosis levels in hippocampal neurons were significantly reduced. These findings suggest that, after repetitive mild traumatic brain injury, miR-124-3 can be transferred from microglia-derived exosomes to injured neurons, where it exerts a neuroprotective effect by inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress. Therefore, microglia-derived exosomes containing miR-124-3p may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for repetitive mild traumatic brain injury.

A 4Ă—4 beta-phase gallium oxide (β -Ga2O3) deep-ultraviolet (DUV) rectangular 10-fingers interdigital metal-semiconductor-metal (MSM) photodetector array of high photo responsivity is introduced. The Ga2O3 thin film is prepared through the metalorganic chemical vapor deposition technique, then used to construct the photodetector array via photolithography, lift-off, and ion beam sputtering methods. The one photodetector cell shows dark current of 1.94 pA, photo-to-dark current ratio of 6Ă—107, photo responsivity of 634.15 Aâ‹...Wâˆ'1, specific detectivity of 5.93Ă—1011 cmâ‹...Hz1/2â‹...Wâˆ'1 (Jones), external quantum efficiency of 310000%, and linear dynamic region of 108.94 dB, indicating high performances for DUV photo detection. Furthermore, the 16-cell photodetector array displays uniform performances with decent deviation of 19.6% for photo responsivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Police Robot for Inspection and Mapping of Underwater Evidence (PRIME) is an uncrewed surface vehicle (USV) currently being developed for underwater search and recovery teams to assist in crime scene investigation. The USV maps underwater scenes using sidescan sonar (SSS). Test exercises use a clothed mannequin lying on the seafloor as a target object to evaluate system performance. A robust, automated method for detecting human body-shaped objects is required to maximise operational functionality. The use of a convolutional neural network (CNN) for automatic target recognition (ATR) is proposed. SSS image data acquired from four different locations during previous missions were used to build a dataset consisting of two classes, i.e., a binary classification problem. The target object class consisted of 166 196 × 196 pixel image snippets of the underwater mannequin, whereas the non-target class consisted of 13,054 examples. Due to the large class imbalance in the dataset, CNN models were trained with six different imbalance ratios. Two different pre-trained models (ResNet-50 and Xception) were compared, and trained via transfer learning. This paper presents results from the CNNs and details the training methods used. Larger datasets are shown to improve CNN performance despite class imbalance, achieving average F1 scores of 97% in image classification. Average F1 scores for target vs background classification with unseen data are only 47% but the end result is enhanced by combining multiple weak classification results in an ensemble average. The combined output, represented as a georeferenced heatmap, accurately indicates the target object location with a high detection confidence and one false positive of low confidence. The CNN approach shows improved object detection performance when compared to the currently used ATR method.

Heterojunction photodetectors (PDs) with photovoltaic effect could play a crucial role in future energy-conservation photoelectronic devices for their self-powered work manner. Herein, a self-powered PD was successfully constructed on the all-oxide Ga2O3/V2O5 thin-film heterojunction. With a type-I straddling band alignment, the Ga2O3/V2O5 heterostructure demonstrated an obvious photovoltaic effect with an open-circuit voltage of 0.4 V. The large bandgap (5.01 eV) of $\beta $ -Ga2O3 and the effective electron–hole pair separation within heterointerface produced a superhigh solar-blind spectral discriminability for the Ga2O3/V2O5 heterojunction PD, with deep-ultraviolet (DUV)/visible rejection ratio (${R}_{{240}}/{R}_{{400}}$) of 6.0 $\times 10^{{4}}$ , photo-to-dark current ratio (PDCR) of $2.6 \times 10^{{7}}$ , on/off switching ratio of $1.87\times 10^{{5}}$ , and specific detectivity of 7.8 $\times 10^{{13}}$ Jones. The largest responsivities in self-powered mode (0 V) and power-supply mode (−5 V) were 19.8 and 79.2 mA/W, respectively. The excellent self-powered photodetection performance of Ga2O3/V2O5 oxide heterojunction provides a new strategy for next-generation energy-conservation solar-blind PDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Intercellular communication often relies on exosomes as messengers and is critical for cancer metastasis in hypoxic tumor microenvironment. Some circular RNAs (circRNAs) are enriched in cancer cell‐derived exosomes, but little is known about their ability to regulate intercellular communication and cancer metastasis. Here, by systematically analyzing exosomes secreted by non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells, a hypoxia‐induced exosomal circPLEKHM1 is identified that drives NSCLC metastasis through polarizing macrophages toward to M2 type. Mechanistically, exosomal circPLEKHM1 promoted PABPC1‐eIF4G interaction to facilitate the translation of the oncostatin M receptor (OSMR), thereby promoting macrophage polarization for cancer metastasis. Importantly, circPLEKHM1‐targeted therapy significantly reduces NSCLC metastasis in vivo. circPLEKHM1 serves as a prognostic biomarker for metastasis and poor survival in NSCLC patients. This study unveils a new circRNA‐mediated mechanism underlying how cancer cells crosstalk with macrophages within the hypoxic tumor microenvironment to promote metastasis, highlighting the importance of exosomal circPLEKHM1 as a prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for lung cancer metastasis.

Self-powered ultraviolet (UV) photodetectors (PDs) have attracted numerous interests for high-performance and low power consumption, making wireless and independent operation possible. Herein, the solution processed tungsten oxide (WO3) nanoparticles (NPs) were employed to construct $\boldsymbol {\beta }$ -Ga2O3/WO3 planar heterojunction PD. The formation of type-II $\boldsymbol {\beta }$ -Ga2O3/WO3 heterointerface generated typical photovoltaic effect enabling self-powered work manner. Importantly, the fabricated $\boldsymbol {\beta }$ -Ga2O3/WO3 NPs PD demonstrated record low noise with dark current of 6.5 fA and prominent spectral selectivity with rejection ratio (${R}_{265} / {R}_{400}$) of $5.3\,\,\times10$ 4, as well as excellent photodetection properties with photo-to-dark current ratio of $6.4\,\,\times10$ 5, ON/OFF switching ratio of $2.7\,\,\times10$ 4, responsivity of 4.1 mA/W, detectivity of $9.0\,\,\times10$ 12 Jones and rise/decay time of 168/171 ms at 0 V. Besides, the narrower bandgap and UVB spectral response of WO3 NPs extended the detectable wavelength to 310 nm realizing broadband photodetection. The low-cost manufacture process and high self-powered performances pave the way of $\boldsymbol {\beta }$ -Ga2O3/WO3 NPs PD in next-generation nanodevices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ga2O3 is one of the most suitable semiconductor materials for performing deep UV photoelectric detection. In this work, a self-powered deep UV photodetector based on a Ga2O3/BFO heterojunction is fabricated via solution spin-coating and metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) methods. Without biasing driven, the device achieves an extreme low dark current (${I}_{dark}$) of 8.38 fA, a photo-to-dark current ratio (PDCR) of $1.66\times10$ 5, a high specific detectivity (${D} \ast $) of $6.1\times 10^{12}$ Jones and an open-circuit voltage (${V}_{\textit {oc}}$) of 0.55 V responding to deep UV irradiation (254 nm in this work). Through analyzing the band diagram of the heterojunction, the intrinsic physical characteristics of the photodetector are discussed. Results show that the photodetector has excellent deep UV signal detecting ability, indicating that Ga2O3/BFO heterojunction is a potential candidate for performing self-powered deep UV photodetection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a Si-doped $\beta $ -Ga2O3 trench Schottky photodiode has been designed and fabricated. This photodiode works as a dual-mode solar-blind ultraviolet sensor with a photo-to-dark current ratio (PDCR) of $3.93\times 10 ^{5}$ , a responsivity (R) of 152.63 A/W, an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 74653%, rise and decay time of 0.06 s and 0.06 s, under the irradiation of 254 nm ultraviolet light with intensity of $200~\mu \text{W}\cdot $ cm−2. Moreover, it has the potential to be a self-powered photodetector at zero bias. In general, this trench Schottky contact design has a good developing prospect in the field of ultraviolet solar-blind detection with high performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, a 16 × 4 linear array of β-Ga2O3-based metal-semiconductor-metal structured photodetector is described for solar-blind sensing operation at a wavelength of 254 nm. The β-Ga2O3 film is grown by using metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) equipment, and the photodetectors are finished in constructing with standard photolithography and ion beam sputtering procedures. The results show that the dark current (Idark), photo-to-dark current ratio (PDCR), photo responsivity (R), specific detectivity (D*), exterl quantum efficiency (EQE), and linear dynamic region (LDR) are 1.94 pA, 2.95 × 107, 139.56 A/W, 2.55 × 1015 Jones, 6.8 × 104 %, and 149.4 dB, at 10 V bias and 2000 μW/cm2 light intensity illumination. In addition, the standard deviation of R for this photodetector array is 10%. Overall, such a 16 × 4 linear array of β-Ga2O3-based photodetector array makes a progress in the field of Ga2O3 photodetectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Si-doped β-Ga2O3 films are fabricated through metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). Solar-blind ultraviolet (UV) photodetector (PD) based on the films is fabricated by standard photolithography, and the photodetection properties are investigated. The results show that the photocurrent increases to 11.2 mA under 200 μW⋅cm−2 254 nm illumination and ± 20 V bias, leading to photo-responsivity as high as 788 A⋅W−1. The Si-doped β-Ga2O3-based PD is promised to perform solar-blind photodetection with high performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breast cancer is the leading cause of death among women. PGC-1a plays an important role in the regulation of metabolic reprogramming in cancer cells. SIRT3 has significant implications for tumor growth. In this study, we explored the roles of PGC-1a and SIRT3 in cell proliferation and mitochondrial energy metabolism alterations in breast cancer cells. The expression patterns of PGC-1a and SIRT3 were examined using qRT-PCR and western blotting analysis. MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells were infected with adenovirus to overexpress or knock down the expression of PGC-1a and SIRT3. Cell viability and apoptosis were analyzed by CCK-8 and flow cytometry, respectively. Hexokinase 2, pyruvate kinase activities, as well as NAD+/NADH ratio and ATP concentration, were assessed by commercial kits. Glucose consumption was measured using the glucose oxidase method and lactic acid concentration was detected by lactate dehydrogenase kit. Expression levels of PGC-1 and SIRT3 were much lower in breast cancer patients, compared with the normal controls. Overexpression of PGC-1a or SIRT3 both significantly promoted the apoptosis and inhibited the proliferation in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. Additionally, PGC-1a or SIRT3 also induced the inhibition of glycolysis metabolism. Moreover, the expression of SIRT3 was positively regulated by PGC-1a. Silencing SIRT3 partly reversed the negative effects of PGC-1a on glycolytic metabolism. These findings demonstrated that PGC-1a/SIRT3 regulated cell proliferation and apoptosis of breast cancer through altering glycolysis, which may provide novel therapeutic strategies for breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To explore the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) by Chinese gynaecological oncology patients undergoing chemotherapy and discuss measures to address the existing gaps.Design Qualitative phenomenology. Semistructured in-depth interview. Colaizzi’s method data analysis.Setting A tertiary general hospital.Participants 16 gynaecological oncology patients (mean age 51.7) having undergone ≥1 chemotherapy cycle were recruited by purposive sampling.Results Six themes were generated. The participants were under-informed about CAM concept and options. They were open to explore various modalities after chemotherapy as long as it could alleviate symptoms. The gynaecological patients with cancer sought information about CAM from diverse sources, with professional expertise being the most desirable way to seek information. They used CAM as a strategy to support continued chemotherapy and for symptom alleviation. Financial burden was not stressed but they had concerns about sustainability of some therapies. Their attitudes toward different CAM types varied. Some were sceptical about the efficacy.Conclusions The Chinese gynaecological oncology patients may be under-informed about CAM. They are open to use various CAM therapies for symptom relief and as a support strategy. However, their attitudes toward specific therapies may vary. Some may host scepticism about certain CAM modalities. The patients actively seek information on CAM and treatment resources but prefer professional expertise to other sources. Financial burden due to continued CAM use is inconclusive due to possible sampling bias. Sustainability of CAM therapies is a common concern because of limited resources and access. Education on CAM should be incorporated into the curriculum of healthcare professionals. Oncologists and nurses should educate gynaecological patients with cancer on the concept and options of CAM, preferably with information tailored to patient’s individual needs. Health authorities should advocate provisions of diverse CAM services and develop the necessary technologies such as network of local care resources.