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Vascular disruption-based tumor starvation therapy efficacy is negatively affected by potential hypoxia-induced immunosuppression. Herein, MnO 2 nanosheets with Fenton-like catalytic activity and immunogenic cell death induction activity were chosen as complementary components to overcome the above bottleneck of vascular disruption therapy. Based on this, we developed a therapeutic hydrogel (CM@Gel) that co-encapsulates MnO 2 nanosheets and the vascular disrupting agent CA4P to exacerbate tumor starvation and enhance immunotherapy. Moreover, the form of hydrogel via local administration contributes to durable drug release while avoiding potential adverse events of vascular disruption when systemically administered. In the breast cancer animal model, the prepared CM@Gel not only alleviates hypoxia after selectively blocking tumor nutrient sources but also transforms the immunosuppressive tumor environment into an immunoactive phenotype. CM@Gel can also dramatically potentiate the efficacy of immune checkpoint therapy (ICB) on the condition of tumor starvation, further verifying its potential as an antitumor immunity booster. This study provides a unique synergistic strategy of tumor starvation therapy and immunotherapy, leveraging a powerful combination of MnO 2 nanosheets and vascular disruption. [Display omitted] • The therapeutic hydrogel was prepared for enhanced anti-tumor immunotherapy. • Vascular disruption agent CA4P blocks tumor lifeblood and seldom impacts the normal vasculature. • MnO 2 nanosheets reverse hypoxia and immunosuppression by Fenton-like catalytic activity and immunogenic cell death effect. • The combination of MnO 2 nanosheets and vascular disruption exerts an excellent synergism effect. • The form of hydrogel via local administration contributes to durable drug release and lower potential adverse events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atomically dispersed FeCu-NC catalyst containing FeN 4 and CuN 4 dual active sites is synthesized, and the assembled hydrogen fuel cell of using FeCu-NC as cathode presents a ultrahigh peak power density. DFT calculations reveal that the strain effect from the CuN 4 species efficiently tailors the electronic structure of FeN 4 species and therefore boost its catalytic activity. [Display omitted] • Atomically dispersed FeCu-NC catalyst containing FeN 4 and CuN 4 dual active sites is synthesized. • The FeCu-NC exhibits better ORR performance than commercial Pt/C and Fe-N-C single-atom catalyst in alkaline medium. • Using FeCu-NC as cathode, the assembled hydroxide exchange membrane fuel cell presents a ultrahigh peak power density. • DFT calculations reveal that the synergistical effect of FeN 4 and CuN 4 species efficiently boosts the ORR. Compared to most popular single-atom catalysts (SACs), the dual-atom catalysts may possess better catalytic performance due to the synergistic effect of dual-atom sites. However, revealing the synergistic mechanism of dual-atom sites to improve catalytic activity is still insufficient. Here, atomically dispersed FeCu-NC catalyst containing FeN 4 and CuN 4 dual active sites is synthesized, and has been identified by high angle annular dark-field STEM and X-ray absorption spectroscopy. The as-synthesized FeCu-NC exhibits a half-wave potential of 0.882 V, which is nearly 40 mV superior to Pt/C catalyst and 24 mV better than Fe-NC SAC in alkaline medium. Using FeCu-NC as a cathode catalyst, the assembled hydroxide exchange membrane fuel cell presents a peak power density of 0.91 W·cm−2, which is ∼ 21% higher than of Fe-NC based one (0.76 W·cm−2). DFT calculations reveal that the strain effect caused by the CuN 4 species replacing the neighbor carbon environment of the FeN 4 species, can efficiently tailor the electronic structure and reduce the OH* adsorption on FeN 4 species and therefore improves the catalytic activity and kinetic process of ORR. This work provides a new insight into the synergistic catalysis of dual-atom sites for ORR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a fungal metabolite, cyclosporin A (CsA) is widely used by patients to avoid immune rejection; however, little is known about its insecticidal activity. In this study, Mythimna separata was employed as a model to investigate the insecticidal activity of CsA as a biocontrol factor. The results showed that CsA had strong insecticide activity (LC50 = 19.23 μg/g for newly hatched larvae) and significantly sublethal effects (especially reproduction suppression) against M. separate. The combined toxicities of CsA with spinosad, azadirachtin, abamectin, and Cry1Ac against M. separata showed independent or synergistic toxicity, suggesting that CsA could be used alone or in a synergistic manner with current insecticides as a pest management strategy and/or to address pest resistance. Subsequent exploration of its insecticidal mechanism indicated that CsA has a unique ability to suppress the activity of calcineurin. An investigation of the use of CsA during indoor breeding of Campoletis chlorideae Uchida (a natural enemy of M. separata) suggested that this metabolite can facilitate the occurrence and reproduction of C. chlorideae. Overall, our study provides information concerning the potential for sustainable biocontrol of M. separata through novel bioinsecticide development; it also provides important clues for improving sustainable management of M. separata and other lepidopterous pest insects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium arsenate crystals are a hazardous waste produced from the utilization of arsenic–alkali residue in antimony metallurgy that pose a serious threat to the environment. In this article, to eradicate the damage caused by sodium arsenate and enhance the sustainable development of nonferrous metallurgy, a novel process was proposed to immobilize arsenic as flaky scorodite using Fe(OH) 3 as an iron source. Various methods, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP AES), were applied to characterize these synthesized products. The whole process is divided into three parts. In the thermodynamic analysis, the stable area of scorodite in the Pourbaix diagram significantly expands at high ionic activity and temperature, which favors the decrease in △ r G for scorodite synthesis, and Fe–As coprecipitation is feasible in solution at 0.18 ≤pH≤ 5.30. In the scorodite synthesis, 99.88% of the arsenic was converted to a flaky scorodite with a size of 2–5 µm by optimizing the parameters. In the removal of arsenic, residual arsenic and iron were completely coprecipitated into an iron salt by dropping NaOH solution to a final pH of 5.0. The final products include scorodite and sodium sulfate in this process. Overall, this new approach successfully eliminates the potential arsenic pollution from the utilization of arsenic–alkali residue in antimony metallurgy and can potentially be applied to dispose of other high arsenic-bearing wastes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Targeted Cancer Therapy: Inspired by the ability of DNA hybridization, a targeted near-infrared (NIR) light-responsive delivery system has been developed through simple DNA self-assembly (PEG=polyethylene glycol). This DNA-based platform shows the ability of releasing therapeutics upon near-infrared irradiation, and remarkable targeted thermo- and chemotherapeutic efficacy in vitro and in vivo.

The activation of cyclic GMP‐AMP (cGAMP) synthase (cGAS) and its adaptor, stimulator of interferon genes (STING), is known to reprogram the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment for promoting antitumor immunity. To enhance the efficiency of cGAS‐STING pathway activation, macrophage‐selective uptake, and programmable cytosolic release are crucial for the delivery of STING agonists. However, existing polymer‐ or lipid‐based delivery systems encounter difficulty in integrating multiple functions meanwhile maintaining precise control and simple procedures. Herein, inspired by cGAS being a natural DNA sensor, a modularized DNA nanodevice agonist (DNDA) is designed that enable macrophage‐selective uptake and programmable activation of the cGAS‐STING pathway through precise self‐assembly. The resulting DNA nanodevice acts as both a nanocarrier and agonist. Upon local administration, it demonstrates the ability of macrophage‐selective uptake, endosomal escape, and cytosolic release of the cGAS‐recognizing DNA segment, leading to robust activation of the cGAS‐STING pathway and enhanced antitumor efficacy. Moreover, DNDA elicits a synergistic therapeutic effect when combined with immune checkpoint blockade. The study broadens the application of DNA nanotechnology as an immune stimulator for cGAS‐STING activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gold-based nanoparticles for surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) imaging show great potential for precise tumor detection and photothermal therapy (PTT). However, the metabolizability of gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) raises big concerns. Herein, we designed a core-shelled nanostructure of copper sulfide (CuS)-coated Au NPs with surface pegylation (PEG-Au@CuS NSs). The excreted Au in the gallbladders at 1 h and 4 h in mice injected with PEG-Au@CuS NSs was 8.2- and 19.1-fold of that with the pegylated Au NPs (PEG-AuNPs) of the same Au particle size, respectively. By loading the Raman reporter 3,3′-Diethylthiatricarbocyanine iodide (DTTC) in the core–shell junction of PEG-Au@CuS NSs, the PEG-Au-DTTC@CuS NSs exhibited the Raman signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio of 4.01 after 24 h of intravenous (IV) injection in the mice bearing an orthotopic CT26-Luc colon tumor. By contrast, the DTTC-coated PEG-AuNPs (PEG-Au-DTTC NPs) achieved an S/N ratio of 2.71. Moreover, PEG-Au-DTTC@CuS NSs exhibited an increased photothermal conversion effect compared with PEG-Au-DTTC NPs excited with an 808-nm laser. PEG-Au-DTTC@CuS NSs enabled intraoperative SERS image-guided photothermal therapy for a complete cure of the colon tumor-bearing mice. Our data demonstrated that the PEG-Au-DTTC@CuS NSs are promising intraoperative Raman image-guided theranostic nanoplatform with enhanced hepatobiliary excretion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The immunosuppressive microenvironment of malignant tumors severely hampers the effectiveness of anti-tumor therapy. Moreover, abnormal tumor vasculature interacts with immune cells, forming a vicious cycle that further interferes with anti-tumor immunity and promotes tumor progression. Our pre-basic found excellent anti-tumor effects of c -di-AMP and RRx-001, respectively, and we further explored whether they could be combined synergistically for anti-tumor immunotherapy. We chose to load these two drugs on PVA-TSPBA hydrogel scaffolds that expressly release drugs within the tumor microenvironment by in situ injection. Studies have shown that c -di-AMP activates the STING pathway, enhances immune cell infiltration, and reverses tumor immunosuppression. Meanwhile, RRx-001 releases nitric oxide, which increases oxidative stress injury in tumor cells and promotes apoptosis. Moreover, the combination of the two presented more powerful pro-vascular normalization and reversed tumor immunosuppression than the drug alone. This study demonstrates a new design option for anti-tumor combination therapy and the potential of tumor environmentally responsive hydrogel scaffolds in combination with anti-tumor immunotherapy. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Excessive pericyte coverage promotes tumor growth, and a downregulation may solve this dilemma. Due to the double-edged sword role of vascular pericytes in tumor microenvironment (TME), indiscriminately decreasing pericyte coverage by imatinib causes poor treatment outcomes. Here, we optimized the use of imatinib in a colorectal cancer (CRC) model in high pericyte-coverage status, and revealed the value of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) at 9.4T in monitoring treatment-related changes in pericyte coverage and the TME. Methods: CRC xenograft models were evaluated by histological vascular characterizations and mpMRI. Mice with the highest pericyte coverage were treated with imatinib or saline; then, vascular characterizations, tumor apoptosis and HIF-1α level were analyzed histologically, and alterations in the expression of Bcl-2/bax pathway were assessed through qPCR. The effects of imatinib were monitored by dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE)-, diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI)- and amide proton transfer chemical exchange saturation transfer (APT CEST)-MRI at 9.4T. Results: The DCE- parameters provided a good histologic match the tumor vascular characterizations. In the high pericyte coverage status, imatinib exhibited significant tumor growth inhibition, necrosis increase and pericyte coverage downregulation, and these changes were accompanied by increased vessel permeability, decreased microvessel density (MVD), increased tumor apoptosis and altered gene expression of apoptosis-related Bcl-2/bax pathway. Strategically, a 4-day imatinib effectively decreased pericyte coverage and HIF-1α level, and continuous treatment led to a less marked decrease in pericyte coverage and re-elevated HIF-1α level. Correlation analysis confirmed the feasibility of using mpMRI parameters to monitor imatinib treatment, with DCE-derived Ve and Ktrans being most correlated with pericyte coverage, Ve with vessel permeability, AUC with microvessel density (MVD), DWI-derived ADC with tumor apoptosis, and APT CEST-derived MTRasym at 1 µT with HIF-1α. Conclusions: These results provided an optimized imatinib regimen to achieve decreasing pericyte coverage and HIF-1α level in the high pericyte-coverage CRC model, and offered an ultrahigh-field multiparametric MRI approach for monitoring pericyte coverage and dynamics response of the TME to treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To construct a probiotic (Escherichia coli Nissle1917,EcN) system (EcN@PVA-ALG) loaded on polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) / alginate (ALG) hydrogel (PVA-ALG) rich in negative hydroxyl groups, and to explore its colonization in the inflammatory site of colon and its therapeutic effect on dextran sulfate sodium salt (DSS)-induced inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Methods. EcN suspension was added to the PVA-ALG hydrogel, and then EcN@PVA-ALG hydrogel probiotic complex was obtained after screening and centrifugation. The synthesis of PVA-ALG hydrogel was verified by rheometer. The surface charge of EcN@PVA-ALG was detected by potentiometer and the load of EcN on PVA-ALG was observed by fluorescence microscope. The absorbance of EcN@PVA-ALG at 600 nm was detected by enzyme labeling instrument. Meanwhile, the bacterial plate count of EcN@PVA-ALG complex suspension was taken to study the growth activity of EcN in EcN@PVA-ALG. The CCK-8 kit was used to assess the inhibitory ability of EcN@PVA-ALG on HEK cell proliferation. In vivo imaging system (IVIS) was used to firstly analyze the enrichment of PVA-ALG on inflammatory colon to study its inflammatory targeting property; then EcN was loaded on PVA-ALG, and IVIS was used to observe the enrichment of EcN@PVA-ALG on inflammatory colon to study its ability to colonize the inflammatory site. To establish the model of IBD mice induced by DSS, EcN@PVA-ALG group (n=5) was given 1x108CFU EcN@PVA-ALG every day for 5 d, and PVA-ALG group, EcN group, PBS group and healthy control group with 5 mice were set up. During the treatment, the body mass of the mice was recorded every day. After treatment, the colonic tissue was taken, and the length of colon was measured. The disease activity index (DAI) score was graded. The levels of inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10 and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) were detected, and the pathological evaluation of colonic tissue was made by H-E staining. Results. Both PVA-ALG and EcN@PVA-ALG were negatively charged. EcN was successfully loaded onto PVA-ALG and PVA-ALG did not affect the growth viability of EcN, which contributed to the subsequent colonization of inflammatory colons. PVA-ALG had a favorable safety profile on normal cells. Compared with healthy controls, PVA-ALG had more than 2-fold enrichment effect on inflammatory colon tissue. In vitro and in vivo experiments revealed that EcN@PVA-ALG complex loaded with EcN had 8 times higher enrichment effect on inflammatory tissue than EcN without any modification. After EcN@PVA-ALG treatment, the body weight of mice recovered rapidly. The increase of DAI was significantly inhibited. The length of colon was similar to that of healthy mice. The levels of TNF-α and IL-6 decreased, while the levels of IL-10 and TGF-β increased. The crypt structure of colon tissue recovered. Conclusion. Compared to unmodified EcN, EcN@PVA-ALG promotes the colonization of EcN at inflammatory sites of colon and allows it to exert better efficacy on treating DSS-induced IBD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluorophores with donor-acceptor-donor groups with the emission spanning the second near-infrared window (NIR-II) have recently received great attention for biomedical application. Yet, the mechanism underlying the equilibrium between fluorescence (radiative decay) and photothermal effect (non-radiative decay) of these fluorophores remains elusive. Here, we demonstrate that a lipophilic NIR-II fluorophore, BPBBT, possesses both twisted intramolecular charge transfer (TICT) and aggregation-induced emission (AIE) characteristics. Human serum albumin (HSA) binds to BPBBT, which changes the planarity of the fluorophore and restricts its intramolecular rotation. The binding results in alteration to the equilibrium between AIE and TICT state of BPBBT, tailoring its fluorescence and photothermal efficiency. Under the guidance of intraoperative NIR-II fluorescence image, the prepared HSA-bound BPBBT nanoparticles delineate primary orthotopic mouse colon tumor and metastatic lesions with dimensions as small as 0.5 mm × 0.3 mm, and offer photothermal ablation therapy with optimized timing, dosing and area of the laser irradiation. There is a balance between the fluorescence and photothermal properties of fluorescent molecules. Here, the authors report on an NIR-II fluorophore which binds with human serum albumin changing the equilibrium, increasing the photothermal efficiency, and demonstrate application of this for tumour ablation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic pollution is a challenging environmental issue caused by arsenic-bearing wastes from nonferrous metallurgy. Oxidative precipitation via introducing O 2 into an ionic Fe(II)–As(V) solution is an advanced method for arsenic immobilization. However, the underlying mechanism is still not well understood. This study proposed a mechanism for scorodite formation by oxidative precipitation, and its thermodynamics were calculated using Gaussian software. Scorodite formation was divided into three stages: precursor formation (3–90 min), oxidative conversion (90–270 min) and crystallization (270–720 min) from the variation in precipitates and solution characterization and parameters such as initial pH, arsenic concentration, and ferrous dosage. In the scorodite formation mechanism, the precursors originate from the coordination polymerization of aqueous Fe(H 2 O) 6 2+ and H 2 AsO 4 −, which contributes to the oxidative conversion of coordinated polymers ([Fe(H 2 O) 4 (H 2 O)] n n+) to basic Fe(H 2 O) 2 AsO 4 until regular octahedral crystals are formed via nucleation and growth during crystallization. The Δ r G m θ for polymerization varied from −491.96 kJ mol−1 to −33.30 kJ mol−1, and the Δ r G m θ of oxidative conversion changed from −982.16 kJ mol−1 to −224.82 kJ mol−1, demonstrating the feasibility in scorodite formation. This research is significant for understanding scorodite formation in As(V) solutions. It can provide schemes for controlling and modifying the conditions of arsenic-bearing waste immobilization in the laboratories and industries. • Variation in pH, arsenic and ferrous was researched during socordite formation. • Fe(OH) 6 2+ coordinated with H 2 AsO 4 − to form polymers. • Precursor polymer was oxidized by oxygen into scorodite. • Coordination polymerization and oxidative conversion are feasible in thermodynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper/graphite composites are widely used due to their excellent electrical, thermal, and self-lubricating properties. However, their mechanical and anti-wear properties are usually limited by brittle graphite and soft copper matrix. Enhancing the properties of composites by further introducing harder ceramic particles is an effective way. However, these particles are usually poorly wetted to metal and can easily separate from the matrix during friction, causing more severe abrasive wear. Herein, TiC x -reinforced Cu/graphite composites were prepared by rapid hot press sintering of a hybrid powder consisting of Ti 3 AlC 2 , Cu-plated graphite, and Cu powder. Al atoms diffused out of Ti 3 AlC 2 and solid-solved into the Cu matrix during the sintering process, forming TiC x and Cu(Al) alloys. Such in situ formed TiC x particles have good interfacial bonding with the matrix. With the increase of Ti 3 AlC 2 addition from 0 to 15 wt%, the average grain size of the composites decreased, the relative density increased, the hardness became larger, the electrical conductivity decreased, and the average coefficient of friction were all maintained at about 0.14, but the wear rate was reduced from 3.6569 × 10−4 mm3·N−1·m−1 to 9.35013 × 10−6 mm3·N−1·m−1. The in situ Ti 3 AlC 2 -derived TiC x particles improved the deformation resistance and shear resistance of the Cu/graphite composites, thus contributing to the wear resistance. This research may offer fresh perspectives on how to enhance the properties of copper/graphite composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A visual Raman nano-delivery system (NS) is a widely used technique for the visualization and diagnosis of tumors and various biological processes. Thiophene-based organic polymers exhibit excellent biocompatibility, making them promising candidates for development as a visual Raman NS. However, materials based on thiophene face limitations due to their absorption spectra not matching with NIR (near-infrared) excitation light, which makes it difficult to achieve enhanced Raman properties and also introduces potential fluorescence interference. In this study, we introduce a donor–acceptor (D-A)-structured thiophene-based polymer, PBDB-T. Due to the D-A molecular modulation, PBDB-T exhibits a narrow bandgap of Eg = 2.63 eV and a red-shifted absorption spectrum, with the absorption edge extending into the NIR region. Upon optimal excitation with 785 nm light, it achieves ultra-strong pre-resonant Raman enhancement while avoiding fluorescence interference. As an intrinsically sensitive visual Raman NS for in vivo imaging, the PBDB-T NS enables the diagnosis of microtumor regions with dimensions of 0.5 mm × 0.9 mm, and also successfully diagnoses deeper tumor tissues, with an in vivo circulation half-life of 14.5 h. This research unveils the potential application of PBDB-T as a NIR excited visual Raman NS for microtumor diagnosis, introducing a new platform for the advancement of "Visualized Drug Delivery Systems". Moreover, the aforementioned platform enables the development of a more diverse range of targeted visual drug delivery methods, which can be tailored to specific regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The identification of survival predictors is crucial for early intervention to improve outcome in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). This study aim to identify chest computed tomography (CT)-derived features to predict prognosis for acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Methods: 952 patients with pathologically-confirmed AML were retrospectively enrolled between 2010 and 2020. CT-derived features (including body composition and subcutaneous fat features), were obtained from the initial chest CT images and were used to build models to predict the prognosis. A CT-derived MSF nomogram was constructed using multivariate Cox regression incorporating CT-based features. The performance of the prediction models was assessed with discrimination, calibration, decision curves and improvements. Results: Three CT-derived features, including myosarcopenia, spleen_CTV, and SF_CTV (MSF) were identified as the independent predictors for prognosis in AML (P < 0.01). A CT-MSF nomogram showed a performance with AUCs of 0.717, 0.794, 0.796 and 0.792 for predicting the 1-, 2-, 3-, and 5-year overall survival (OS) probabilities in the validation cohort, which were significantly higher than the ELN risk model. Moreover, a new MSN stratification system (MSF nomogram plus ELN risk model) could stratify patients into new high, intermediate and low risk group. Patients with high MSN risk may benefit from intensive treatment (P = 0.0011). Conclusions: In summary, the chest CT-MSF nomogram, integrating myosarcopenia, spleen_CTV, and SF_CTV features, could be used to predict prognosis of AML. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Angiogenesis inhibitors have been identified to improve the efficacy of immunotherapy in recent studies. However, the delayed therapeutic effect of immunotherapy poses challenges in treatment planning. Therefore, this study aims to explore the potential of non-invasive imaging techniques, specifically intravoxel-incoherent-motion diffusion-weighted imaging (IVIM-DWI) and blood oxygenation level-dependent magnetic resonance imaging (BOLD-MRI), in detecting the anti-tumor response to the combination therapy involving immune checkpoint blockade therapy and anti-angiogenesis therapy in a tumor-bearing animal model. Methods: The C57BL/6 mice were implanted with murine MC-38 cells to establish colon cancer xenograft model, and randomly divided into the control group, anti-PD-1 therapy group, and combination therapy group (VEGFR-2 inhibitor combined with anti-PD-1 antibody treatment). All mice were imaged before and, on the 3rd, 6th, 9th, and 12th day after administration, and pathological examinations were conducted at the same time points. Results: The combination therapy group effectively suppressed tumor growth, exhibiting a significantly higher tumor inhibition rate of 69.96% compared to the anti-PD-1 group (56.71%). The f value and D* value of IVIM-DWI exhibit advantages in reflecting tumor angiogenesis. The D* value showed the highest correlation with CD31 (r = 0.702, P = 0.001), and the f value demonstrated the closest correlation with vessel maturity (r = 0.693, P = 0.001). While the BOLD-MRI parameter, R2* value, shows the highest correlation with Hif-1α(r = 0.778, P < 0.001), indicating the capability of BOLD-MRI to evaluate tumor hypoxia. In addition, the D value of IVIM-DWI is closely related to tumor cell proliferation, apoptosis, and infiltration of lymphocytes. The D value was highly correlated with Ki-67 (r = − 0.792, P < 0.001), TUNEL (r = 0.910, P < 0.001) and CD8a (r = 0.918, P < 0.001). Conclusions: The combination of VEGFR-2 inhibitors with PD-1 immunotherapy shows a synergistic anti-tumor effect on the mouse colon cancer model. IVIM-DWI and BOLD-MRI are expected to be used as non-invasive approaches to provide imaging-based evidence for tumor response detection and efficacy evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In today's age of big data and information, large-scale group decision-making has become an essential aspect of modern economy, science, and technology. This paper proposes a large-scale group decision-making method that leverages group-oriented rough dominance relation to identify the worst group when addressing complex issues that involve a large number of decision-makers. The proposed method entails building a set-valued ordered information system that utilizes clustering learning to reduce data dimensions and reduce the dimensions of decision space, thereby improving the efficiency of the decision-making process. Additionally, it proposes a novel group-oriented rough dominance relation based on dominance-based rough set theory. By clarifying this advantage relationship, more targeted focus is placed on the group that needs improvement, thereby improving decision-making effectiveness. The proposed method calculates the advantage degree of alternative group plans to select the worst group. The main purpose is to compare the advantages and disadvantages of different groups by defining a metric that quantifies the rough dominance relation between groups, thereby improving the objectivity and repeatability of the decision-making process. Finally, the study applies the proposed method to a case study aimed at improving various types of services in European scenic spots, and the benefits of the method are discussed. Experimental analysis shows that the method in this study can screen the groups that should be improved most in this case, showing the benefits and applicability of the proposed method, and providing valuable insights for complex decision-making problems involving multiple decision-makers. • The clustering learning is used for dimensionality reduction. • Using the group-oriented rough dominance relation for decision-making aggregation. • A new method called LSGDM is designed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811), a high nickel-positive electrode material, has higher discharge capacity, lower cost, and less environmental pollution than other systems, so it has attracted many people's attention. However, its poor thermal stability, cycle rate performance, and safety problems limit its practical application. In this paper, the NCM811 cathode material with Al3+ and PO43− co-doping (NCM-PA) was prepared by co-precipitation method and high-temperature solid-state method to improve its properties. The results show that the co-doping can effectively inhibit the mixing of lithium and nickel, maintain the good lamellar structure of the cathode material, and improve the electrochemical performance of the cathode material. The capacity retention rate of NCM-PA is 14.1% higher than that of the raw material after 100 cycles at 1 C. In addition, due to the small degree of electrode polarization of the co-doping material, NCM-PA still has a discharge-specific capacity of 155.8 mAh/g when the current density is 5 C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abnormal tumor vasculature and a hypoxic tumor microenvironment (TME) limit the effectiveness of conventional cancer treatment. Recent studies have shown that antivascular strategies that focus on antagonizing the hypoxic TME and promoting vessel normalization effectively synergize to increase the antitumor efficacy of conventional therapeutic regimens. By integrating multiple therapeutic agents, well-designed nanomaterials exhibit great advantages in achieving higher drug delivery efficiency and can be used as multimodal therapy with reduced systemic toxicity. In this review, strategies for the nanomaterial-based administration of antivascular therapy combined with other common tumor treatments, including immunotherapy, chemotherapy, phototherapy, radiotherapy, and interventional therapy, are summarized. In particular, the administration of intravascular therapy and other therapies with the use of versatile nanodrugs is also described. This review provides a reference for the development of multifunctional nanotheranostic platforms for effective antivascular therapy in combined anticancer treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Sb 2 O 3 , As 2 O 3 , and PbO convert into NaSb(OH) 6 , AsO 4 3-, and HPbO 2 - in oxidation. • Qualified NaSb(OH) 6 was synthesized from raw materials by optimizing parameters. • Na 3 AsO 4 ·12H 2 O, PbS, and ZnS were precipitated from the sulfurized crystallization. • Arsenic was leached by a water–leaching process to recover valuable PbS and ZnS. In this paper, in order to eradicate the high energy consumption, environmental pollution of As 2 O 3 dust and hazardous arsenic–alkali residue in a traditional arsenic–bearing antimony white (A–BAW) disposal in pyrometallurgical process of jamesonite, a novel aqueous alkaline oxidation was proposed to directly synthesize sodium antimonate and recover valuable Pb and Zn. Based on the thermodynamic analysis and experimental research, sodium antimonate was prepared at [NaOH] = 8 mol/L, η[H 2 O 2 ] = 1.4, ratio of liquid to A–BAW = 3:1, and reaction temperature = 80 °C. The as–prepared NaSb(OH) 6 was a cubic structure having a uniform size of 5–10 um. The mother liquor was purified at 2.0 times of theoretical Na 2 S dosage and 10 °C as a result of PbS, ZnS and Na 3 AsO 4 ·12H 2 O richened in crystal slags with the precipitation ratios of 99.64 % (Pb), 99.75 % (Zn) and 95.81 % (As), respectively. Furthermore, PbS and ZnS were effectively recovered by water–leaching with precipitation ratios for 99.99 % (Pb) and 99.98 % (Zn). This novel approach not only comprehensively recovers valuable metals and eliminates arsenic pollution but also realizes an economically sustainable utilization of antimonial resources from the pyrometallurgical process of jamesonite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cell‐specific aptamers offer a powerful tool to study membrane receptors at the single‐molecule level. Most target receptors of aptamers are highly expressed on the cell surface, but difficult to analyze in situ because of dense distribution and fast velocity. Therefore, we herein propose a random sampling‐based analysis strategy termed ligand dilution analysis (LDA) for easily implemented aptamer‐based receptor study. Receptor density on the cell surface can be calculated based on a regression model. By using a synergistic ligand dilution design, colocalization and differentiation of aptamer and monoclonal antibody (mAb) binding on a single receptor can be realized. Once this is accomplished, precise binding site and detailed aptamer‐receptor binding mode can be further determined using molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation. The ligand dilution strategy also sets the stage for an aptamer‐based dynamics analysis of two‐ and three‐dimensional motion and fluctuation of highly expressed receptors on the live cell membrane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiferroic materials have potential applications in multifunctional electronic devices, and M-type hexaferrite with conical spin order is a promising candidate. In this paper, a series of SrCo x Ti x Fe 12–2x O 19 thin films were prepared by a sol-gel method, and x-dependent structure, cation site occupancy and magnetic properties were investigated to explore the origin of conical spin order in M-type hexaferrite. It was found that the introduction of Co2+ and Ti4+ ions decreases the uniaxial magnetocrystalline anisotropy and breaks the threefold symmetry of the lattice, inducing a conical magnetic structure. Moreover, the appearance temperature of the conical spin order (T cone) increases first and then decreases with the increase of x, and the largest T cone of about 324 K is obtained in SrCo 1.8 Ti 1.8 Fe 8.4 O 19 thin film. The evolution of magnetization is closely related to the site occupancy of Co2+ and Ti4+ ions, and the net effective substitution ratio of spin-down Fe3+ is positive correlation to the T cone of SrCo x Ti x Fe 12–2x O 19 and thus considered to be responsible for the introduction of conical spin order. The results reveal the correlation between the structure, magnetic properties and cation site occupancy, pointing out an effective method to induce conical spin order in M-type hexaferrites. • The net effective substitution of Co2+-Ti4+ to spin-down Fe3+ correlates with T cone. • The selective substitution to spin-down Fe3+ induces conical spin order. • The introduction of Co2+ and Ti4+ ions can induce local non-zero DM interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "The relationship between imaging features, therapeutic response, and overall survival in pediatric diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma" published in the Neurosurgical Review. The authors acknowledge that there were errors in Table 3 of the original article. The corrected version of Table 3 is provided in the correction notice. The article has been corrected, and the publisher remains neutral regarding jurisdictional claims and affiliations. [Extracted from the article]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "A chest CT-based nomogram for predicting survival in acute myeloid leukemia" published in BMC Cancer. The correction states that Xiaoping Yi, Huien Zhan, Jun Lyu, and Juan Du contributed equally to the work, and provides the corrected statement. The original article has been corrected accordingly. The publisher, Springer Nature, maintains a neutral stance on jurisdictional claims and institutional affiliations. The correction notice is authored by Xiaoping Yi, Huien Zhan, Jun Lyu, Juan Du, and several other individuals. [Extracted from the article]

Emerging evidence indicates that a vicious cycle between inflammation and microthrombosis catalyzes the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Over‐stimulated inflammation triggers a coagulation cascade and leads to microthrombosis, which further complicates the injury through tissue hypoxia and ischemia. Herein, an injectable protein hydrogel with anti‐thrombosis and anti‐inflammation competency is developed to impede this cycle, cross‐linked by silver ion mediated metal‐ligand coordination and electronic interaction with sulfhydryl functionalized bovine serum albumin and heparin, respectively. The ex vivo experiments show that the hydrogel, HEP‐Ag‐BSA, exhibits excellent self‐healing ability, injectability, biocompatibility, and sustained drug release. HEP‐Ag‐BSA also demonstrates anti‐coagulation and anti‐inflammation abilities via coagulation analysis and lipopolysaccharide stimulation assay. The in vivo imaging confirms the longer retention time of HEP‐Ag‐BSA at inflammatory sites than in normal mucosa owing to electrostatic interactions. The in vivo study applying a mouse model with colitis also reveals that HEP‐Ag‐BSA can robustly inhibit inflammatory microthrombosis with reduced bleeding risk. This versatile protein hydrogel platform can definitively hinder the "inflammation and microthrombosis" cycle, providing a novel integrated approach against IBD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A local vascular-encapsulated sustained-release drug delivery system containing degradable rapamycin nanofiber membrane patch was developed. Sustained drug release can meet the clinical requirement of exposing the venous anastomotic site to a dose of rapamycin can avoid side effects caused by systemic medication. [Display omitted] • Sustained drug release maintains a consistent concentration of medication in the arteriovenous fistula. • The degradability of nanofiber membranes helps to avoid repeated surgical interventions and associated damage. • This approach avoids the systemic damage caused by widespread drug release. The maturity and patency of arteriovenous fistula (AVF) are essential for patients undergoing hemodialysis. Dysfunction of AVF due to neointimal hyperplasia (NIH) presents a significant clinical challenge. While balloon dilation therapy and open surgery can address this issue, they are associated with a higher likelihood of restenosis and reduced long-term durability. Therefore, there is an urgent need to establish a new method for inhibiting NIH to prolong the patency of AVF treatment. In this study, we developed a local vascular-encapsulated sustained-release drug delivery system containing degradable rapamycin nanofiber membrane patches (R-NFMs). During surgery, R-NFMs were wrapped around the anastomotic site of the AVF and the venous outflow tract. In vitro assessments demonstrated the consistent and stable release of rapamycin from the R-NFMs, confirming the material's non-toxicity and its support of healthy cellular morphology. Animal studies further revealed that the experimental group showed significant reductions in neointimal and medial hyperplasia, as well as decreased expression of α-SMA, compared to controls. In conclusion, these findings suggest that R-NFMs are effective in inhibiting NIH and may serve as an innovative preventative approach to this pervasive issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Detection of progression is of great importance to breast cancer treatment and can benefit patients. Limited by current detection technologies and biomarkers, early breast cancer progression diagnosis remains challenging. Researchers have found blood extracellular vesicles (EVs)-derived integrin α6β4 directly facilitate progression in breast cancer, enabling cancer detection. However, EVs size and heterogeneity hinder protein detection, masked by abundant background EVs. Hence, novel tools for efficient detection of EVs with high selectivity and low interference are significantly desired. Here, a new silver-coated gold nanorods SERS probe, termed as Au@Ag@IDA-B/4MSTP, based on DNA aptamer was established for the detection of integrin α6β4 derived from EVs. Validation of the Au@Ag@IDA-B/4MSTP probes using cell-culture-derived EVs revealed a LOD of 23 particles/μL for EVs detection. This tool was further confirmed to mimic the real state of cancer with subcutaneous tumor model and lung metastasis model in mice. With 10 μL of blood plasma and simple Raman analysis process, the test achieved 85.7 % sensitivity and 83.3 % specificity. Moreover, our method achieves a simplified approach that expedites the detection process. These results demonstrate the good detection performance of Au@Ag@IDA-B/4MSTP probes for EVs integrin α6β4, and suggest that this non-invasive approach could be a promising tool for early detection of breast cancer progression. [Display omitted] • A novel method for detecting early progression of breast cancer is developed. • The SERS probe is high-sensitive for detecting EVs with a LOD of 23 particles/μL. • Using 10 μL of blood plasma achieves 85.7 % sensitivity and 83.3 % specificity. • The whole detection process takes about 0.8 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hypoxia is an important factor that contributes to chemoresistance and metastasis in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), and alleviating hypoxia microenvironment can enhance the anti-tumor efficacy and also inhibit tumor invasion. Methods: A near-infrared (NIR) responsive on-demand oxygen releasing nanoplatform (O2-PPSiI) was successfully synthesized by a two-stage self-assembly process to overcome the hypoxia-induced tumor chemoresistance and metastasis. We embedded drug-loaded poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) cores into an ultrathin silica shell attached with paramagnetic Gd-DTPA to develop a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)-guided NIR-responsive on-demand drug releasing nanosystem, where indocyanine green was used as a photothermal converter to trigger the oxygen and drug release under NIR irradiation. Results: The near-infrared responsive on-demand oxygen releasing nanoplatform O2-PPSiI was chemically synthesized in this study by a two-stage self-assembly process, which could deliver oxygen and release it under NIR irradiation to relieve hypoxia, improving the therapeutic effect of chemotherapy and suppressed tumor metastasis. This smart design achieves the following advantages: (i) the O2 in this nanosystem can be precisely released by an NIR-responsive silica shell rupture; (ii) the dynamic biodistribution process of O2-PPSiI was monitored in real-time and quantitatively analyzed via sensitive MR imaging of the tumor; (iii) O2-PPSiI could alleviate tumor hypoxia by releasing O2 within the tumor upon NIR laser excitation; (iv) The migration and invasion abilities of the TNBC tumor were weakened by inhibiting the process of EMT as a result of the synergistic therapy of NIR-triggered O2-PPSiI. Conclusions: Our work proposes a smart tactic guided by MRI and presents a valid approach for the reasonable design of NIR-responsive on-demand drug-releasing nanomedicine systems for precise theranostics in TNBC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: An easy-to-implement MRI model for predicting partial response (PR) postradiotherapy for diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is lacking. Utilizing quantitative T2 signal intensity and introducing a visual evaluation method based on T2 signal intensity heterogeneity, and compared MRI radiomic models for predicting radiotherapy response in pediatric patients with DIPG.We retrospectively included patients with brainstem gliomas aged ≤ 18 years admitted between July 2011 and March 2023. Applying Response Assessment in Pediatric Neuro-Oncology criteria, we categorized patients into PR and non-PR groups. For qualitative analysis, tumor heterogeneity vision was classified into four grades based on T2-weighted images. Quantitative analysis included the relative T2 signal intensity ratio (rT2SR), extra pons volume ratio, and tumor ring-enhancement volume. Radiomic features were extracted from T2-weighted and T1-enhanced images of volumes of interest. Univariate analysis was used to identify independent variables related to PR. Multivariate logistic regression was performed using significant variables (p < 0.05) from univariate analysis.Of 140 patients (training n = 109, and test n = 31), 64 (45.7%) achieved PR. The AUC of the predictive model with extrapontine volume ratio, rT2SRmax–min (rT2SRdif), and grade was 0.89. The AUCs of the T2-weighted and T1WI-enhanced models with radiomic signatures were 0.84 and 0.81, respectively. For the 31 DIPG test sets, the AUCs were 0.91, 0.83, and 0.81, for the models incorporating the quantitative features, radiomic model (T2-weighted images, and T1W1-enhanced images), respectively.Combining T2-weighted quantification with qualitative and extrapontine volume ratios reliably predicted pediatric DIPG radiotherapy response.Combining T2-weighted quantification with qualitative and extrapontine volume ratios can accurately predict diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) radiotherapy response, which may facilitate personalized treatment and prognostic assessment for patients with DIPG.Early identification is crucial for radiotherapy response and risk stratification in diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma.The model using tumor heterogeneity and quantitative T2 signal metrics achieved an AUC of 0.91.Using a combination of parameters can effectively predict radiotherapy response in this population.Early identification is crucial for radiotherapy response and risk stratification in diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma.The model using tumor heterogeneity and quantitative T2 signal metrics achieved an AUC of 0.91.Using a combination of parameters can effectively predict radiotherapy response in this population.Methods: An easy-to-implement MRI model for predicting partial response (PR) postradiotherapy for diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is lacking. Utilizing quantitative T2 signal intensity and introducing a visual evaluation method based on T2 signal intensity heterogeneity, and compared MRI radiomic models for predicting radiotherapy response in pediatric patients with DIPG.We retrospectively included patients with brainstem gliomas aged ≤ 18 years admitted between July 2011 and March 2023. Applying Response Assessment in Pediatric Neuro-Oncology criteria, we categorized patients into PR and non-PR groups. For qualitative analysis, tumor heterogeneity vision was classified into four grades based on T2-weighted images. Quantitative analysis included the relative T2 signal intensity ratio (rT2SR), extra pons volume ratio, and tumor ring-enhancement volume. Radiomic features were extracted from T2-weighted and T1-enhanced images of volumes of interest. Univariate analysis was used to identify independent variables related to PR. Multivariate logistic regression was performed using significant variables (p < 0.05) from univariate analysis.Of 140 patients (training n = 109, and test n = 31), 64 (45.7%) achieved PR. The AUC of the predictive model with extrapontine volume ratio, rT2SRmax–min (rT2SRdif), and grade was 0.89. The AUCs of the T2-weighted and T1WI-enhanced models with radiomic signatures were 0.84 and 0.81, respectively. For the 31 DIPG test sets, the AUCs were 0.91, 0.83, and 0.81, for the models incorporating the quantitative features, radiomic model (T2-weighted images, and T1W1-enhanced images), respectively.Combining T2-weighted quantification with qualitative and extrapontine volume ratios reliably predicted pediatric DIPG radiotherapy response.Combining T2-weighted quantification with qualitative and extrapontine volume ratios can accurately predict diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) radiotherapy response, which may facilitate personalized treatment and prognostic assessment for patients with DIPG.Early identification is crucial for radiotherapy response and risk stratification in diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma.The model using tumor heterogeneity and quantitative T2 signal metrics achieved an AUC of 0.91.Using a combination of parameters can effectively predict radiotherapy response in this population.Early identification is crucial for radiotherapy response and risk stratification in diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma.The model using tumor heterogeneity and quantitative T2 signal metrics achieved an AUC of 0.91.Using a combination of parameters can effectively predict radiotherapy response in this population.Results: An easy-to-implement MRI model for predicting partial response (PR) postradiotherapy for diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is lacking. Utilizing quantitative T2 signal intensity and introducing a visual evaluation method based on T2 signal intensity heterogeneity, and compared MRI radiomic models for predicting radiotherapy response in pediatric patients with DIPG.We retrospectively included patients with brainstem gliomas aged ≤ 18 years admitted between July 2011 and March 2023. Applying Response Assessment in Pediatric Neuro-Oncology criteria, we categorized patients into PR and non-PR groups. For qualitative analysis, tumor heterogeneity vision was classified into four grades based on T2-weighted images. Quantitative analysis included the relative T2 signal intensity ratio (rT2SR), extra pons volume ratio, and tumor ring-enhancement volume. Radiomic features were extracted from T2-weighted and T1-enhanced images of volumes of interest. Univariate analysis was used to identify independent variables related to PR. Multivariate logistic regression was performed using significant variables (p < 0.05) from univariate analysis.Of 140 patients (training n = 109, and test n = 31), 64 (45.7%) achieved PR. The AUC of the predictive model with extrapontine volume ratio, rT2SRmax–min (rT2SRdif), and grade was 0.89. The AUCs of the T2-weighted and T1WI-enhanced models with radiomic signatures were 0.84 and 0.81, respectively. For the 31 DIPG test sets, the AUCs were 0.91, 0.83, and 0.81, for the models incorporating the quantitative features, radiomic model (T2-weighted images, and T1W1-enhanced images), respectively.Combining T2-weighted quantification with qualitative and extrapontine volume ratios reliably predicted pediatric DIPG radiotherapy response.Combining T2-weighted quantification with qualitative and extrapontine volume ratios can accurately predict diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) radiotherapy response, which may facilitate personalized treatment and prognostic assessment for patients with DIPG.Early identification is crucial for radiotherapy response and risk stratification in diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma.The model using tumor heterogeneity and quantitative T2 signal metrics achieved an AUC of 0.91.Using a combination of parameters can effectively predict radiotherapy response in this population.Early identification is crucial for radiotherapy response and risk stratification in diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma.The model using tumor heterogeneity and quantitative T2 signal metrics achieved an AUC of 0.91.Using a combination of parameters can effectively predict radiotherapy response in this population.Conclusion: An easy-to-implement MRI model for predicting partial response (PR) postradiotherapy for diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is lacking. Utilizing quantitative T2 signal intensity and introducing a visual evaluation method based on T2 signal intensity heterogeneity, and compared MRI radiomic models for predicting radiotherapy response in pediatric patients with DIPG.We retrospectively included patients with brainstem gliomas aged ≤ 18 years admitted between July 2011 and March 2023. Applying Response Assessment in Pediatric Neuro-Oncology criteria, we categorized patients into PR and non-PR groups. For qualitative analysis, tumor heterogeneity vision was classified into four grades based on T2-weighted images. Quantitative analysis included the relative T2 signal intensity ratio (rT2SR), extra pons volume ratio, and tumor ring-enhancement volume. Radiomic features were extracted from T2-weighted and T1-enhanced images of volumes of interest. Univariate analysis was used to identify independent variables related to PR. Multivariate logistic regression was performed using significant variables (p < 0.05) from univariate analysis.Of 140 patients (training n = 109, and test n = 31), 64 (45.7%) achieved PR. The AUC of the predictive model with extrapontine volume ratio, rT2SRmax–min (rT2SRdif), and grade was 0.89. The AUCs of the T2-weighted and T1WI-enhanced models with radiomic signatures were 0.84 and 0.81, respectively. For the 31 DIPG test sets, the AUCs were 0.91, 0.83, and 0.81, for the models incorporating the quantitative features, radiomic model (T2-weighted images, and T1W1-enhanced images), respectively.Combining T2-weighted quantification with qualitative and extrapontine volume ratios reliably predicted pediatric DIPG radiotherapy response.Combining T2-weighted quantification with qualitative and extrapontine volume ratios can accurately predict diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) radiotherapy response, which may facilitate personalized treatment and prognostic assessment for patients with DIPG.Early identification is crucial for radiotherapy response and risk stratification in diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma.The model using tumor heterogeneity and quantitative T2 signal metrics achieved an AUC of 0.91.Using a combination of parameters can effectively predict radiotherapy response in this population.Early identification is crucial for radiotherapy response and risk stratification in diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma.The model using tumor heterogeneity and quantitative T2 signal metrics achieved an AUC of 0.91.Using a combination of parameters can effectively predict radiotherapy response in this population.Clinical relevance statement: An easy-to-implement MRI model for predicting partial response (PR) postradiotherapy for diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is lacking. Utilizing quantitative T2 signal intensity and introducing a visual evaluation method based on T2 signal intensity heterogeneity, and compared MRI radiomic models for predicting radiotherapy response in pediatric patients with DIPG.We retrospectively included patients with brainstem gliomas aged ≤ 18 years admitted between July 2011 and March 2023. Applying Response Assessment in Pediatric Neuro-Oncology criteria, we categorized patients into PR and non-PR groups. For qualitative analysis, tumor heterogeneity vision was classified into four grades based on T2-weighted images. Quantitative analysis included the relative T2 signal intensity ratio (rT2SR), extra pons volume ratio, and tumor ring-enhancement volume. Radiomic features were extracted from T2-weighted and T1-enhanced images of volumes of interest. Univariate analysis was used to identify independent variables related to PR. Multivariate logistic regression was performed using significant variables (p < 0.05) from univariate analysis.Of 140 patients (training n = 109, and test n = 31), 64 (45.7%) achieved PR. The AUC of the predictive model with extrapontine volume ratio, rT2SRmax–min (rT2SRdif), and grade was 0.89. The AUCs of the T2-weighted and T1WI-enhanced models with radiomic signatures were 0.84 and 0.81, respectively. For the 31 DIPG test sets, the AUCs were 0.91, 0.83, and 0.81, for the models incorporating the quantitative features, radiomic model (T2-weighted images, and T1W1-enhanced images), respectively.Combining T2-weighted quantification with qualitative and extrapontine volume ratios reliably predicted pediatric DIPG radiotherapy response.Combining T2-weighted quantification with qualitative and extrapontine volume ratios can accurately predict diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) radiotherapy response, which may facilitate personalized treatment and prognostic assessment for patients with DIPG.Early identification is crucial for radiotherapy response and risk stratification in diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma.The model using tumor heterogeneity and quantitative T2 signal metrics achieved an AUC of 0.91.Using a combination of parameters can effectively predict radiotherapy response in this population.Early identification is crucial for radiotherapy response and risk stratification in diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma.The model using tumor heterogeneity and quantitative T2 signal metrics achieved an AUC of 0.91.Using a combination of parameters can effectively predict radiotherapy response in this population.Key Points: An easy-to-implement MRI model for predicting partial response (PR) postradiotherapy for diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is lacking. Utilizing quantitative T2 signal intensity and introducing a visual evaluation method based on T2 signal intensity heterogeneity, and compared MRI radiomic models for predicting radiotherapy response in pediatric patients with DIPG.We retrospectively included patients with brainstem gliomas aged ≤ 18 years admitted between July 2011 and March 2023. Applying Response Assessment in Pediatric Neuro-Oncology criteria, we categorized patients into PR and non-PR groups. For qualitative analysis, tumor heterogeneity vision was classified into four grades based on T2-weighted images. Quantitative analysis included the relative T2 signal intensity ratio (rT2SR), extra pons volume ratio, and tumor ring-enhancement volume. Radiomic features were extracted from T2-weighted and T1-enhanced images of volumes of interest. Univariate analysis was used to identify independent variables related to PR. Multivariate logistic regression was performed using significant variables (p < 0.05) from univariate analysis.Of 140 patients (training n = 109, and test n = 31), 64 (45.7%) achieved PR. The AUC of the predictive model with extrapontine volume ratio, rT2SRmax–min (rT2SRdif), and grade was 0.89. The AUCs of the T2-weighted and T1WI-enhanced models with radiomic signatures were 0.84 and 0.81, respectively. For the 31 DIPG test sets, the AUCs were 0.91, 0.83, and 0.81, for the models incorporating the quantitative features, radiomic model (T2-weighted images, and T1W1-enhanced images), respectively.Combining T2-weighted quantification with qualitative and extrapontine volume ratios reliably predicted pediatric DIPG radiotherapy response.Combining T2-weighted quantification with qualitative and extrapontine volume ratios can accurately predict diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) radiotherapy response, which may facilitate personalized treatment and prognostic assessment for patients with DIPG.Early identification is crucial for radiotherapy response and risk stratification in diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma.The model using tumor heterogeneity and quantitative T2 signal metrics achieved an AUC of 0.91.Using a combination of parameters can effectively predict radiotherapy response in this population.Early identification is crucial for radiotherapy response and risk stratification in diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma.The model using tumor heterogeneity and quantitative T2 signal metrics achieved an AUC of 0.91.Using a combination of parameters can effectively predict radiotherapy response in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic–enriched wastewater (A–EW) is a hypertoxic sewage from the utilization of crude antimony oxides in lead anode slime metallurgy. In traditional methods, the H+ accumulation inhibits the arsenic immobilization during scorodite synthesis. In this study, a novel multivalent iron source comprised of Fe(OH) 3 and FeSO 4 ·7H 2 O was proposed to resolve the adverse effects of pH fluctuation during immobilizing A–EW as scorodite. Various approaches, such as scanning electron microscopy and X–ray photoelectron spectroscopy, were applied to characterize the synthesized scorodite. This work was divided into two parts. In thermodynamics, H n AsO 4 (3−n)- (n = 1, 2, 3) and Fe(OH) n (3−n)+ (n = 0, 1, 2, 3) can feasibly coprecipitate as scorodite according to their △ r G m , T θ ranged from −111.10 kJ mol−1 to −33.53 kJ mol−1. In experimental research, A–EW was immobilized as scorodite by optimizing conditions as initial pH = 2.0, molar ratio of Fe to As = 1.2, molar ratio of Fe(II) to Fe(III) = 4:6, arsenic concentration = 40 g/L, and temperature = 95 °C. The arsenic precipitation ratio is 99.60%, and the micromorphology of synthesized scorodite presents a regular octahedron having size of 5–10 μm. The low leachability of As (0.41 mg/L) in toxicity characteristic leaching procedure (TCLP) confirmed that the prepared scorodite is nonhazardous. The solution pH is stable at 2.0 as the H+ depletion (0.5660 mol) by Fe(OH) 3 dissolution and Fe2+ oxidization balanced with that (0.5657 mol) generated from As(V)–Fe(III) coprecipitation. In general, the A–EW was effectively immobilized by proposed multivalent iron source, and can be potentially applied to safely dispose other industrial effluents, such as high arsenic leachates and arsenic–bearing waste acid from nonferrous metallurgy. Scorodite formation mechanism and protons balance in weak acidic solution using a multivalent iron source. [Display omitted] • H n AsO 4 (3−n)- and Fe(OH) n (3−n)+ can coprecipitate as scorodite from △ r G m , T calculations. • 99.60% of A–EW was immobilized as 5–10 μm octahedral scorodite at a stable pH. • Fe(OH) 3 neutralizes extra H+ from oxidative coprecipitation of Fe(II) and As(V). • Sodium salts were recovered from solution by an evaporative crystallization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid hot-press sintering was employed to prepare the self-lubricating composites using Cu-Sn alloy, Cu-coated graphite, and Cu-coated MoS 2 powder as raw materials. The effects of the sintering temperature on the microstructure, interfacial characteristics, and friction properties of the composites were primarily examined. The findings demonstrated that as the sintering temperature rose from 680 °C to 780 °C, the copper alloy matrix's grain size grew. The composites' density and hardness increased and subsequently declined as the sintering temperature rose. Moreover, the interfacial bonding between the copper-coating lubricant and the copper alloy matrix was improved by raising the sintering temperature. The average friction coefficient of the composite grew and then fell as the sintering temperature rose, and the wear initially increased, then decreased, and then increased again. The copper-tin composite had good frictional properties because a composite lubricating film made of graphite, MoS 2 , and metal oxides formed on the worn surface. Among them, the comprehensive friction performance was best at the sintering temperature of 760 °C, with an average friction coefficient of 0.11 and a wear rate of 2.332 × 10−6 mm3N−1·m−1. The wear mechanism was the combined coupling effect of abrasive wear, adhesive wear and oxidative wear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aptamer binding characterization, including receptor density calculation, single-molecule colocalization, binding site determination, motion and fluctuation analysis, was performed with minimal probe and instrument requirements. Aptamers, Binding Site, Dilution, Fluorescent Probes, Motion Analysis Keywords: Aptamers; Binding Site; Dilution; Fluorescent Probes; Motion Analysis EN Aptamers Binding Site Dilution Fluorescent Probes Motion Analysis 1 1 1 02/22/23 20230301 NES 230301 B A membrane-receptor-analysis method b termed ligand dilution analysis, which combines the concepts of single-molecule localization and random sampling, is reported by Yifan Lyu, Jianhui Jiang, Weihong Tan et al. in their Research Article (e202215387). [Extracted from the article]

This study aimed to analyze the relationships between the lean mass index (LMI) and bone outcomes in Chinese children and adolescents using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and to establish sex-specific reference percentile curves for the assessment of muscle status. A total of 1541 Chinese children and adolescents between the ages of 5 and 19 years were recruited from southern China. Body composition was measured by DXA (Lunar Prodigy) to acquire total body and total body less head (TBLH) measures. LMI was calculated as the LM (kg) divided by the height in meters squared. Strong sex gaps were observed after age 14 in total body LMI and appendicular LMI (p < 0.001). LM and LMI values continued to increase for boys up to age 14 compared to girls who plateaued after age 12. For each sex group, total body bone mineral content (BMC) and TBLH BMC were highly correlated with total body LMI and appendicular LMI (r = 0.856-0.916 in boys, and r = 0.651-0.804 in girls, p < 0.001). The appendicular LMI was more strongly associated with total body BMC and TBLH BMC than was total body LMI. The correlations between the BMC values and the LM measures were stronger than the fat mass results. We also present sex-specific percentile curves for LM-age and LMI-age relationships, which could be useful for identifying the LM deficits in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) 1.1, the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) criteria and the Positron Emission Tomography Response Criteria in Solid Tumors (PERCIST) 1.0 using PET volume computer-assisted reading (PET VCAR) for response evaluation in patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with chemotherapy. Methods: A total of 35 patients with NSCLC were included in this prospective study. All patients received standard chemotherapy and underwent F-FDG PET/CT scans before and after treatment. With the assistance of PET VCAR, the chemotherapeutic responses were evaluated according to the RECIST 1.1, EORTC criteria and PERCIST 1.0. Concordance among these protocols was assessed using Cohen's κ coefficient and Wilcoxon's signed-ranks test. Progression-free survival (PFS) was calculated using the Kaplan-Meier test. Results: RECIST 1.1 and EORTC response classifications were discordant in 20 patients (57.1 %; κ = 0.194, P < 0.05), and RECIST 1.1 and PERCIST 1.0 classifications were discordant in 22 patients (62.9 %; κ = 0.139, P < 0.05). EORTC and PERCIST 1.0 classifications were discordant in only 4 patients (11.4 %), resulting in better concordance ( κ = 0.804, P > 0.05). Patients with a partial remission according to RECIST 1.1 had significantly longer PFS ( P < 0.001) than patients with progressive disease, but not significantly longer than patients with stable disease ( P = 0.855). According to both the EORTC criteria and PERCIST 1.0, patients with a partial metabolic response had a significantly longer PFS than those with stable metabolic disease and those with progressive metabolic disease ( P = 0.020 and P < 0.001, respectively, for EORTC; both P < 0.001 for PERCIST 1.0). Conclusion: EORTC criteria and PERCIST 1.0 are more sensitive and accurate than RECIST 1.1 for the detection of an early therapeutic response to chemotherapy in patients with NSCLC. Although EORTC criteria and PERCIST 1.0 showed similar results, PERCIST 1.0 is preferred because detailed and unambiguous definitions are given. We also found that response evaluations with PERCIST 1.0 using a single lesion and multiple lesions gave similar response classifications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colon-targeted oral delivery is crucial for the treatment of colon-related diseases, as this delivery strategy enables precise drug administration to the diseased site, enhances drug bioavailability, and improves patient compliance. In particular, nanoparticle-based oral formulations shield drugs from the harsh gastrointestinal environment, and selectively increase drug concentration inside diseased colon cells, thus elevating therapeutic efficacy while reducing systemic toxicity. In this review, we elaborate recent progress in this area, with emphasis on the pathophysiological characteristics of colon site and design strategies to take advantage of these characteristics for colon targeting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]