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Wong KY, Nie Z, Wong MS, Wang Y, Liu J. Metal-Drug Coordination Nanoparticles and Hydrogels for Enhanced Delivery. Adv Mater 2024:e2404053. [PMID: 38602715 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202404053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Drug delivery is a key component of nanomedicine, and conventional delivery relies on the adsorption or encapsulation of drug molecules to a nanomaterial. Many delivery vehicles contain metal ions, such as metal-organic frameworks, metal oxides, transition metal dichalcogenides, MXene, and noble metal nanoparticles. These materials have a high metal content and pose potential long-term toxicity concerns leading to difficulties for clinical approval. In this review, recent developments are summarized in the use of drug molecules as ligands for metal coordination forming various nanomaterials and soft materials. In these cases, the drug-to-metal ratio is much higher than conventional adsorption-based strategies. The drug molecules are divided into small-molecule drugs, nucleic acids, and proteins. The formed hybrid materials mainly include nanoparticles and hydrogels, upon which targeting ligands can be grafted to improve efficacy and further decrease toxicity. The application of these materials for addressing cancer, viral infection, bacterial infection inflammatory bowel disease, and bone diseases is reviewed. In the end, some future directions are discussed from fundamental research, materials science, and medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ka-Ying Wong
- Department of Chemistry, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR), 17W, Hong Kong Science Park, Pak Shek Kok, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Zhenyu Nie
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha , 410008, P. R. China
| | - Man-Sau Wong
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR), 17W, Hong Kong Science Park, Pak Shek Kok, 999077, Hong Kong
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, 999077, Hong Kong
- Research Center for Chinese Medicine Innovation, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Yang Wang
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha , 410008, P. R. China
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, P. R. China
| | - Juewen Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR), 17W, Hong Kong Science Park, Pak Shek Kok, 999077, Hong Kong
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Al-Nashash H, Wong KL, ALL AH. Hypothermia effects on neuronal plasticity post spinal cord injury. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301430. [PMID: 38578715 PMCID: PMC10997101 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND SCI is a time-sensitive debilitating neurological condition without treatment options. Although the central nervous system is not programmed for effective endogenous repairs or regeneration, neuroplasticity partially compensates for the dysfunction consequences of SCI. OBJECTIVE AND HYPOTHESIS The purpose of our study is to investigate whether early induction of hypothermia impacts neuronal tissue compensatory mechanisms. Our hypothesis is that although neuroplasticity happens within the neuropathways, both above (forelimbs) and below (hindlimbs) the site of spinal cord injury (SCI), hypothermia further influences the upper limbs' SSEP signals, even when the SCI is mid-thoracic. STUDY DESIGN A total of 30 male and female adult rats are randomly assigned to four groups (n = 7): sham group, control group undergoing only laminectomy, injury group with normothermia (37°C), and injury group with hypothermia (32°C +/-0.5°C). METHODS The NYU-Impactor is used to induce mid-thoracic (T8) moderate (12.5 mm) midline contusive injury in rats. Somatosensory evoked potential (SSEP) is an objective and non-invasive procedure to assess the functionality of selective neuropathways. SSEP monitoring of baseline, and on days 4 and 7 post-SCI are performed. RESULTS Statistical analysis shows that there are significant differences between the SSEP signal amplitudes recorded when stimulating either forelimb in the group of rats with normothermia compared to the rats treated with 2h of hypothermia on day 4 (left forelimb, p = 0.0417 and right forelimb, p = 0.0012) and on day 7 (left forelimb, p = 0.0332 and right forelimb, p = 0.0133) post-SCI. CONCLUSION Our results show that the forelimbs SSEP signals from the two groups of injuries with and without hypothermia have statistically significant differences on days 4 and 7. This indicates the neuroprotective effect of early hypothermia and its influences on stimulating further the neuroplasticity within the upper limbs neural network post-SCI. Timely detection of neuroplasticity and identifying the endogenous and exogenous factors have clinical applications in planning a more effective rehabilitation and functional electrical stimulation (FES) interventions in SCI patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasan Al-Nashash
- Department of Electrical Engineering, College of Engineering, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ka-Leung Wong
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Angelo H. ALL
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
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Wang H, He Q, Gao X, Shang Y, Zhu W, Zhao W, Chen Z, Gong H, Yang Y. Multifunctional High Entropy Alloys Enabled by Severe Lattice Distortion. Adv Mater 2024; 36:e2305453. [PMID: 37561587 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202305453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Since 2004, the design of high entropy alloys (HEAs) has generated significant interest within the materials science community due to their exceptional structural and functional properties. By incorporating multiple principal elements into a common lattice, it is possible to create a single-phase crystal with a highly distorted lattice. This unique feature enables HEAs to offer a promising combination of mechanical and physical properties that are not typically observed in conventional alloys. In this article, an extensive overview of multifunctional HEAs that exhibit severe lattice distortion is provided, covering the theoretical models that are developed to understand lattice distortion, the experimental and computational methods employ to characterize lattice distortion, and most importantly, the impact of severe lattice distortion on the mechanical, physical and electrochemical properties of HEAs. Through this review, it is hoped to stimulate further research into the study of distorted lattices in crystalline solids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Wang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Quanfeng He
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
- Institute of Materials Modification and Modeling, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Xiang Gao
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Yinghui Shang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
- City University of Hong Kong (Dongguan), Dongguan, Guangdong, 523000, China
| | - Wenqing Zhu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
- State Key Laboratory for Turbulence and Complex System, Department of Mechanics and Engineering Science, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Weijiang Zhao
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
- Powder Metallurgy Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410083, China
| | - Zhaoqi Chen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Hao Gong
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Yong Yang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
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Jiang Q, Wu KLK, Hu XQ, Cheung MH, Chen W, Ma CW, Shum DKY, Chan YS. Neonatal GABAergic transmission primes vestibular gating of output for adult spatial navigation. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:147. [PMID: 38502309 PMCID: PMC10951018 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05170-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
GABAergic interneurons are poised with the capacity to shape circuit output via inhibitory gating. How early in the development of medial vestibular nucleus (MVN) are GABAergic neurons recruited for feedforward shaping of outputs to higher centers for spatial navigation? The role of early GABAergic transmission in assembling vestibular circuits for spatial navigation was explored by neonatal perturbation. Immunohistochemistry and confocal imaging were utilized to reveal the expression of parvalbumin (PV)-expressing MVN neurons and their perineuronal nets. Whole-cell patch-clamp recording, coupled with optogenetics, was conducted in vitro to examine the synaptic function of MVN circuitry. Chemogenetic targeting strategy was also employed in vivo to manipulate neuronal activity during navigational tests. We found in rats a neonatal critical period before postnatal day (P) 8 in which competitive antagonization of GABAergic transmission in the MVN retarded maturation of inhibitory neurotransmission, as evidenced by deranged developmental trajectory for excitation/inhibition ratio and an extended period of critical period-like plasticity in GABAergic transmission. Despite increased number of PV-expressing GABAergic interneurons in the MVN, optogenetic-coupled patch-clamp recording indicated null-recruitment of these neurons in tuning outputs along the ascending vestibular pathway. Such perturbation not only offset output dynamics of ascending MVN output neurons, but was further accompanied by impaired vestibular-dependent navigation in adulthood. The same perturbations were however non-consequential when applied after P8. Results highlight neonatal GABAergic transmission as key to establishing feedforward output dynamics to higher brain centers for spatial cognition and navigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiufen Jiang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 21 Sassoon Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kenneth Lap-Kei Wu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 21 Sassoon Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK
| | - Xiao-Qian Hu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 21 Sassoon Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Man-Him Cheung
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 21 Sassoon Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenqiang Chen
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 21 Sassoon Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
- Joslin Diabetes Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Chun-Wai Ma
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 21 Sassoon Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Daisy Kwok-Yan Shum
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 21 Sassoon Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China.
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ying-Shing Chan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 21 Sassoon Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China.
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China.
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Liu R, Wang S, Zhou Z, Zhang K, Wang G, Chen C, Long Y. Materials in Radiative Cooling Technologies. Adv Mater 2024:e2401577. [PMID: 38497602 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202401577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Radiative cooling (RC) is a carbon-neutral cooling technology that utilizes thermal radiation to dissipate heat from the Earth's surface to the cold outer space. Research in the field of RC has garnered increasing interest from both academia and industry due to its potential to drive sustainable economic and environmental benefits to human society by reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions from conventional cooling systems. Materials innovation is the key to fully exploit the potential of RC. This review aims to elucidate the materials development with a focus on the design strategy including their intrinsic properties, structural formations, and performance improvement. The main types of RC materials, i.e., static-homogeneous, static-composite, dynamic, and multifunctional materials, are systematically overviewed. Future trends, possible challenges, and potential solutions are presented with perspectives in the concluding part, aiming to provide a roadmap for the future development of advanced RC materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Liu
- Department of Electronic Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Shancheng Wang
- Department of Electronic Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Zhengui Zhou
- Department of Electronic Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Keyi Zhang
- Department of Electronic Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Guanya Wang
- Department of Electronic Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Changyuan Chen
- Department of Electronic Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Yi Long
- Department of Electronic Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
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Chung EYH, Kuen-Fung Sin K, Chow DHK. Effectiveness of Robotic Intervention on Improving Social Development and Participation of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder - A Randomised Controlled Trial. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06236-2. [PMID: 38231380 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06236-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Evidence-based robotic intervention programmes for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have been limited. As yet, there is insufficient evidence to inform therapists, teachers, and service providers on effectiveness of robotic intervention to enhance social development and participation of children with ASD in a real context. This study used a randomised controlled trial to test the efficacy of robotic intervention programmes in enhancing the social development and participation of children with ASD. 60 children with ASD were included. The participants were randomly assigned to the following groups: (1) robotic intervention programme (n = 20), (2) human-instructed programme (n = 20), and (3) control group (n = 20). Both the performance-based behavioural change in social communication and parent-reported change in social responsiveness were evaluated. The participants in the robotic intervention group demonstrated statistically significant changes in both the performance-based assessment and parent-reported change in social participation. Significant differences were found in the communication and reciprocal social interactions scores between the experimental group and the control and comparison groups in the performance-based assessment (p < 0.01). The effectiveness of robotic intervention programme to enhance the social communication and participation was confirmed. Future studies may also consider adding a maintenance phase to document how the effects of the intervention carry over to the participants over a longer period. (Clinical trial number: NCT04879303; Date of registration: 10 May 2021).
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Yin-Han Chung
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Science, Swansea University, Room 311 Vivian Tower, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK.
- Department of Special Education and Counseling, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
- Centre for Special Educational Needs and Inclusive Education, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
| | - Kenneth Kuen-Fung Sin
- Department of Special Education and Counseling, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- Centre for Special Educational Needs and Inclusive Education, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Daniel Hung-Kay Chow
- Department of Health and Physical Education, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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Zhang Z, Pan K, Liu H. Survival of Nutrient-Starved Diatoms Under Ocean Acidification: Perspective from Nutrient Sensing, Cadmium Detection, and Nitrogen Assimilation. Bull Environ Contam Toxicol 2023; 112:21. [PMID: 38150047 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-023-03849-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Increased anthropogenic emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) have resulted in ocean acidification (OA) that is intertwined with enhanced ocean stratification. Diatoms are assumed to suffer from a more nutrient-limited condition in the future ocean. This study aimed to explore how OA affects the diatom dynamics under nutrient-poor conditions and the ability of diatoms to perceive nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, silicon, and trace metals) and cadmium (Cd) stimuli and assimilate nitrogen when receiving nutrients or Cd supplementation. Our study observed that diatom population grown under OA condition declined faster than those grown under ambient condition. Ocean acidification greatly lower intracellular Ca2+ concentration in diatom cells. Intracellular Ca2+ burst was involved in phosphorus accumulation but not in nitrogen, silicon, essential metals, and cadmium uptake. Our data demonstrate slower NO3- assimilation rates of diatoms grown in acidified seawater. Our study also indicates that diatoms have a poor perception of phosphorus availability under OA condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Zhang
- SZU-HKUST Joint PhD Program in Marine Environmental Science, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Ocean Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Ke Pan
- SZU-HKUST Joint PhD Program in Marine Environmental Science, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Microbiome Engineering Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Hongbin Liu
- Department of Ocean Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, SAR, China.
- Hong Kong Branch of Southern Marine Science & Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China.
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8
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Bacci G, Meriggi N, Cheng CLY, Ng KH, Iannucci A, Mengoni A, Cavalieri D, Cannicci S, Fratini S. Species-specific gill's microbiome of eight crab species with different breathing adaptations. Sci Rep 2023; 13:21033. [PMID: 38030652 PMCID: PMC10687215 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-48308-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Transitions to physically different environments, such as the water-to-land transition, proved to be the main drivers of relevant evolutionary events. Brachyuran crabs evolved remarkable morphological, behavioral, and physiological adaptations to terrestrial life. Terrestrial species evolved new respiratory structures devoted to replace or support the gills, a multifunctional organ devoted to gas exchanges, ion-regulation and nitrogen excretion. It was hypothesized that microorganisms associated with respiratory apparatus could have facilitated the processes of osmoregulation, respiration, and elimination of metabolites along this evolutionary transition. To test if crab species with different breathing adaptations may host similar microbial communities on their gills, we performed a comparative targeted-metagenomic analysis, selecting two marine and six terrestrial crabs belonging to different families and characterised by different breathing adaptations. We analysed anterior and posterior gills separately according to their different and specific roles. Regardless of their terrestrial or marine adaptations, microbial assemblages were strongly species-specific indicating a non-random association between the host and its microbiome. Significant differences were found in only two terrestrial species when considering posterior vs. anterior gills, without any association with species-specific respiratory adaptations. Our results suggest that all the selected species are strongly adapted to the ecological niche and specific micro-habitat they colonise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Bacci
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Niccolò Meriggi
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Christine L Y Cheng
- The Swire Institute of Marine Science, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Ka Hei Ng
- The Swire Institute of Marine Science, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Alessio Iannucci
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
- NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, 90133, Palermo, Italy
| | - Alessio Mengoni
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Duccio Cavalieri
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
- NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, 90133, Palermo, Italy
| | - Stefano Cannicci
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy.
- The Swire Institute of Marine Science, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China.
- NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, 90133, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Sara Fratini
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
- NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, 90133, Palermo, Italy
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Cheng C, Ebrahimi OV. Gamification: a Novel Approach to Mental Health Promotion. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2023; 25:577-586. [PMID: 37801212 PMCID: PMC10654169 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-023-01453-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Gamification has emerged as a novel technique for improving mental health and enhancing treatment effectiveness. This paper provides an overview of gamification approaches to mental health intervention, identifies factors that may be related to variations in treatment effectiveness, and discusses possible strategies for tailoring gamified interventions to clients' needs. RECENT FINDINGS Recent research has documented the potential of gamified mental health interventions for bolstering mental wellness and mitigating psychological symptoms. However, their effectiveness may vary depending on study design-related factors and gender-specific considerations. Literature reviews have also identified yet-to-be resolved issues surrounding the possible strengths and weaknesses of the personalization versus standardization of gamification, as well as the potential benefits of gamification for increasing engagement versus the potential risks of over-engagement and behavioral addiction to gamified components. This review highlights the need for careful planning and execution of gamified mental health interventions to optimize their effectiveness and suitability for meeting clients' individual needs and preferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Cheng
- Department of Psychology, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Omid V Ebrahimi
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Research Institute, Modum Bad Psychiatric Hospital, Vikersund, Norway
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Liao Z, Mallem K, Prodanov MF, Kang C, Gao Y, Song J, Vashchenko VV, Srivastava AK. Ultralow Roll-Off Quantum Dot Light-Emitting Diodes Using Engineered Carrier Injection Layer. Adv Mater 2023; 35:e2303950. [PMID: 37749922 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202303950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Quantum dot (QD) light-emitting diodes (QLEDs) have attracted extensive attention due to their high color purity, solution-processability, and high brightness. Due to extensive efforts, the external quantum efficiency (EQE) of QLEDs has approached the theoretical limit. However, because of the efficiency roll-off, the high EQE can only be achieved at relatively low luminance, hindering their application in high-brightness devices such as near-to-eye displays and lighting applications. Here, this article reports an ultralow roll-off QLED that is achieved by simultaneously blocking electron leakage and enhancing the hole injection, thereby shifting the recombination zone back to the emitting QDs layer. These devices maintain EQE over 20.6% up to 1000 mA cm-2 current density, dropping only by ≈5% from the peak EQE of 21.6%, which is the highest value ever reported for the bottom-emitting red QLEDs. Furthermore, the maximum luminance of the optimal device reaches 320 000 cd m-2 , 2.7 times higher than the control device (Lmax : 128 000 cd m-2 ). A passive matrix (PM) QLED display panel with high brightness based on the optimized device structure is also demonstrated. The proposed approach advances the potential of QLEDs to operate efficiently in high-brightness scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zebing Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Displays and Optoelectronics Technologies, Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
- Centre for Display Research, Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Kumar Mallem
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Displays and Optoelectronics Technologies, Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
- Centre for Display Research, Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Maksym F Prodanov
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Displays and Optoelectronics Technologies, Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
- Centre for Display Research, Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Chengbin Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Displays and Optoelectronics Technologies, Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
- Centre for Display Research, Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Yiyang Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Displays and Optoelectronics Technologies, Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
- Centre for Display Research, Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Jianxin Song
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Displays and Optoelectronics Technologies, Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
- Centre for Display Research, Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Valerii V Vashchenko
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Displays and Optoelectronics Technologies, Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
- Centre for Display Research, Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Abhishek K Srivastava
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Displays and Optoelectronics Technologies, Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
- Centre for Display Research, Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
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Chun RKM, Zhang H, Liu Z, Tse DYY, Zhou Y, Lam CSY, To CH. Defocus incorporated multiple segments (DIMS) spectacle lenses increase the choroidal thickness: a two-year randomized clinical trial. Eye Vis (Lond) 2023; 10:39. [PMID: 37715201 PMCID: PMC10502972 DOI: 10.1186/s40662-023-00356-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myopia control interventions, such as defocus incorporated multiple segments (DIMS) spectacle lenses, have been adopted in school-aged children to reduce the prevalence of myopia and its complications. This study aimed to investigate the effect of DIMS spectacle lenses on subfoveal choroidal thickness (SfChT) over a period of two years, as the choroidal response to myopic control is a crucial factor in exploring its potential effect on predicting myopia progression. METHODS This study involved a secondary analysis of our previous randomized clinical trial. Myopic school-aged children aged 8-13 years were recruited in a two-year study investigating the effect of DIMS spectacle lenses on myopia progression. The treated group received DIMS spectacle lenses (n = 78), while the control group was treated with a pair of single vision (SV) spectacle lenses (n = 80). SfChT was monitored at 1 week, 1, 3, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months post lens wear using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography and a custom made auto-segmentation algorithm utilizing convolutional neural networks. RESULTS SfChT increased significantly after one week of DIMS spectacle lens wear compared to those wearing SV spectacle lenses (adjusted mean change relative to baseline ± SEM at one week; DIMS vs. SV, 6.75 ± 1.52 µm vs. - 3.17 ± 1.48 µm; P < 0.0001, general linear model). The thickness of choroid increased to 13.64 ± 2.62 µm after 12 months of DIMS lens wear while the choroid thinned in SV group (- 9.46 ± 2.55 µm). Choroidal changes demonstrated a significant negative association with axial elongation over two years in both the DIMS and SV groups. Choroidal change at three months significantly predicted the changes in AL at 12 months after controlling the effect of age and gender. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrated a significant choroidal thickening in response to myopic defocus incorporated in a spectacle lens after one week of lens wear, sustained over the two-year study period. The results suggested that choroidal changes at three months may help predict changes in axial length after one year. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov. Myopia control with the multi-segment lens. NCT02206217. Registered 29 July 2014, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/study/NCT02206217.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Ka Man Chun
- Centre for Myopia Research, School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
- Research Centre for SHARP Vision (RCSV), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR), 17W Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Hanyu Zhang
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhengji Liu
- Centre for Myopia Research, School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Dennis Yan Yin Tse
- Centre for Myopia Research, School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
- Research Centre for SHARP Vision (RCSV), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR), 17W Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yongjin Zhou
- Research Centre for SHARP Vision (RCSV), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Medical Electronics, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Carly Siu Yin Lam
- Centre for Myopia Research, School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
- Research Centre for SHARP Vision (RCSV), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR), 17W Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chi Ho To
- Centre for Myopia Research, School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
- Research Centre for SHARP Vision (RCSV), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR), 17W Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
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Tsang TK, Gostic KM, Chen S, Wang Y, Arevalo P, Lau EHY, Cobey S, Cowling BJ. Investigation of the Impact of Childhood Immune Imprinting on Birth Year-Specific Risk of Clinical Infection During Influenza A Virus Epidemics in Hong Kong. J Infect Dis 2023; 228:169-172. [PMID: 36637115 PMCID: PMC10345470 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiad009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Influenza imprinting reduces risks of influenza A virus clinical infection by 40%-90%, estimated from surveillance data in western countries. We analyzed surveillance data from 2010 to 2019 in Hong Kong. Based on the best model, which included hemagglutinin group-level imprinting, we estimated that individuals imprinted to H1N1 or H2N2 had a 17% (95% confidence interval [CI], 3%-28%) lower risk of H1N1 clinical infection, and individuals imprinted to H3N2 would have 12% (95% CI, -3% to 26%) lower risk of H3N2 clinical infection. These estimated imprinting protections were weaker than estimates in western countries. Identifying factors affecting imprinting protections is important for control policies and disease modeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim K Tsang
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Control, School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Katelyn M Gostic
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Sijie Chen
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Control, School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Yifan Wang
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Control, School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Philip Arevalo
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Eric H Y Lau
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Control, School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Sarah Cobey
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Benjamin J Cowling
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Control, School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
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Sun Y, Wu YS, Cheung YTD, Wang MP, Chen J, Leung LT, Zhang X, Chak KY, Lam TH, Ho SY. Impact of mandatory masking amid the COVID-19 pandemic on outdoor smoking: an interrupted time-series analysis of a 33-month unobtrusive observational study. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1136621. [PMID: 37521998 PMCID: PMC10372439 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1136621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Mask-wearing in outdoor public places in Hong Kong was mandated on 29 July 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic. We aimed to evaluate the impact of mandatory masking with no exemption for smoking on outdoor smoking. Methods We conducted 253 unobtrusive observations at 10 outdoor smoking hotspots in 33 months from July 2019 to March 2022 and counted smokers and non-smoking pedestrians in fixed boundaries. We conducted interrupted time-series analyses on the monthly mean volume of smokers (persons per hour) using generalized linear models. The independent variables were as follows: time since the first observation, implementation of the mask regulation, time since the regulation, seasonality, and waves 1-5 outbreaks. We checked the robustness of the association using the daily mean volume of smokers as the dependent variable. Two sensitivity analyses were conducted to include the hotspot location or the number of all pedestrians as an offset. Results Monthly outdoor smoking decreased immediately after the regulation (incidence rate ratio [IRR]: 0.505, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.374 to 0.680, P < 0.001). Daily smoking analysis and the two sensitivity analyses supported the results. However, monthly outdoor smoking increased by 11% since the regulation (IRR: 1.110, 95% CI: 1.074 to 1.147, P < 0.001). An exception was observed at the most severe wave 5 outbreak when monthly outdoor smoking decreased (IRR: 0.415, 95% CI: 0.327 to 0.525, P < 0.001). Conclusion Outdoor smoking fell immediately after mandatory masking, rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, and decreased again at the most severe wave 5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuying Sun
- School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yongda Socrates Wu
- School of Nursing, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | | | - Man Ping Wang
- School of Nursing, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jianjiu Chen
- School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Lok Tung Leung
- School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhang
- School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kin Yeung Chak
- School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- School of Nursing, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Tai Hing Lam
- School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Sai Yin Ho
- School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Chun RKM, Choy KY, Li KK, Lam TC, Tse DYY, To CH. Additive effects of narrowband light and optical defocus on chick eye growth and refraction. Eye Vis (Lond) 2023; 10:15. [PMID: 37004128 PMCID: PMC10067198 DOI: 10.1186/s40662-023-00332-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the past decade and during the COVID pandemic, the prevalence of myopia has reached epidemic proportions. To address this issue and reduce the prevalence of myopia and its complications, it is necessary to develop more effective interventions for controlling myopia. In this study, we investigated the combined effects of narrowband lights and competing defocus on eye growth and refraction in chicks, an important step in understanding the potential for these interventions to control myopia. This is the first time these effects have been characterized. METHODS Three groups of five-day-old chicks (n = 8 per group) were raised in three different lighting conditions: white, red, and blue for 13 days in a 12/12-h light/dark diurnal cycle. One eye was randomly selected for applications of a dual-power optical lens (- 10 D/ + 10 D, 50∶50), while another eye was left untreated as control. Vitreous chamber depth (VCD), axial length (AL), choroidal thickness (CT) and refractive errors were measured at pre-exposure (D0) and following 3 (D3), 7 (D7), 10 (D10), and 13 days (D13) of light exposure. RESULTS Under white light, the dual-power lens induced a hyperopic shift [at D13, mean spherical equivalent refraction (SER), treated vs. control: 4.81 ± 0.43 D vs. 1.77 ± 0.21 D, P < 0.001] and significantly reduced the progression of axial elongation (at D13, change in AL, treated vs. control: 1.25 ± 0.04 mm vs. 1.45 ± 0.05 mm, P < 0.01). Compared to white light alone, blue light alone induced a hyperopic shift (at D13, mean SER, blue vs. white: 2.75 ± 0.21 D vs. 1.77 ± 0.21 D, P < 0.01) and significantly reduced axial elongation (at D13, change in AL, blue vs. white: 1.17 ± 0.06 mm vs. 1.45 ± 0.05 mm, P < 0.01) in control eyes. When comparing all conditions, eyes exposed to blue light plus dual-power lens had the least axial elongation (at D13, change in AL, 0.99 ± 0.05 mm) and were the most hyperopic (at D13, mean SER, 6.36 ± 0.39 D). CONCLUSIONS Both narrowband blue light and dual-power lens interventions were effective in inducing a hyperopic shift in chicks, and provided protection against myopia development. The combination of these interventions had additive effects, making them potentially even more effective. These findings support the use of optical defocus interventions in combination with wavelength filters in clinical studies testing their effectiveness in treating myopia in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Ka-Man Chun
- Laboratory of Experimental Optometry, Centre for Myopia Research, School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Research Centre for SHARP Vision (RCSV), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR), 17W Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Kit-Ying Choy
- Laboratory of Experimental Optometry, Centre for Myopia Research, School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR), 17W Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - King-Kit Li
- Laboratory of Experimental Optometry, Centre for Myopia Research, School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Thomas Chuen Lam
- Laboratory of Experimental Optometry, Centre for Myopia Research, School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Research Centre for SHARP Vision (RCSV), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR), 17W Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Dennis Yan-Yin Tse
- Laboratory of Experimental Optometry, Centre for Myopia Research, School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Research Centre for SHARP Vision (RCSV), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR), 17W Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Chi-Ho To
- Laboratory of Experimental Optometry, Centre for Myopia Research, School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
- Research Centre for SHARP Vision (RCSV), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR), 17W Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, Hong Kong.
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Liu Y, Wei JA, Luo Z, Cui J, Luo Y, Mak SOK, Wang S, Zhang F, Yang Y, So KF, Shi L, Zhang L, Chow BKC. A gut-brain axis mediates sodium appetite via gastrointestinal peptide regulation on a medulla-hypothalamic circuit. Sci Adv 2023; 9:eadd5330. [PMID: 36791202 PMCID: PMC9931223 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.add5330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Salt homeostasis is orchestrated by both neural circuits and peripheral endocrine factors. The colon is one of the primary sites for electrolyte absorption, while its potential role in modulating sodium intake remains unclear. Here, we revealed that a gastrointestinal hormone, secretin, is released from colon endocrine cells under body sodium deficiency and is indispensable for inducing salt appetite. As the neural substrate, circulating secretin activates specific receptors in the nucleus of the solitary tracts, which further activates the downstream paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, resulting in enhanced sodium intake. These results demonstrated a previously unrecognized gut-brain pathway for the timely regulation of sodium homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchu Liu
- Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ji-an Wei
- Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Zhihua Luo
- Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing Cui
- Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yifan Luo
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Sarah Oi Kwan Mak
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Siqi Wang
- Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fengwei Zhang
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yan Yang
- Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kwok-Fai So
- Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Guangzhou, China
- Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation Institute, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, China
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Lingling Shi
- Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Guangzhou, China
- Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation Institute, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, China
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Shum TCT. Quality of Life of South Asian Older Adults in Hong Kong: Policy Implications for a Multicultural Active Aging Framework. Gerontol Geriatr Med 2023; 9:23337214231179837. [PMID: 37324644 PMCID: PMC10262638 DOI: 10.1177/23337214231179837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
In Hong Kong, the number of South Asian (Indian, Pakistani, and Nepalese) older adults is projected to increase. However, academic and policy research in Hong Kong exploring the aging experience among ethnic minority older adults remains scarce. Drawing on in-depth interviews with South Asian older adults in Hong Kong, this paper examines the challenges they face in the economic, health, and social domains to maintain their quality of life in old age. Our analysis illustrates the significant cultural values, family obligations, and ethnic networks that shape the quality of life of South Asians in Hong Kong. These findings can help advance active aging policy in Hong Kong as they examine how to enhance the quality of life and facilitate social integration among ethnic minority older adults in this multicultural society.
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Bello UM, Wang J, Park ASY, Tan KWS, Cheung BWS, Thompson B, Cheong AMY. Can visual cortex non-invasive brain stimulation improve normal visual function? A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1119200. [PMID: 36937668 PMCID: PMC10017867 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1119200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Multiple studies have explored the use of visual cortex non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) to enhance visual function. These studies vary in sample size, outcome measures, and methodology. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analyses to assess the effects of NIBS on visual functions in human participants with normal vision. Methods We followed the PRISMA guidelines, and a review protocol was registered with PROSPERO before study commencement (CRD42021255882). We searched Embase, Medline, PsychInfo, PubMed, OpenGrey and Web of Science using relevant keywords. The search covered the period from 1st January 2000 until 1st September 2021. Comprehensive meta-analysis (CMA) software was used for quantitative analysis. Results Fifty studies were included in the systematic review. Only five studies utilized transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and no TMS studies met our pre-specified criteria for meta-analysis. Nineteen transcranial electrical stimulation studies (tES, 38%) met the criteria for meta-analysis and were the focus of our review. Meta-analysis indicated acute effects (Hedges's g = 0.232, 95% CI: 0.023-0.442, p = 0.029) and aftereffects (0.590, 95% CI: 0.182-0.998, p = 0.005) of tES on contrast sensitivity. Visual evoked potential (VEP) amplitudes were significantly enhanced immediately after tES (0.383, 95% CI: 0.110-0.665, p = 0.006). Both tES (0.563, 95% CI: 0.230-0.896, p = 0.001) and anodal-transcranial direct current stimulation (a-tDCS) alone (0.655, 95% CI: 0.273-1.038, p = 0.001) reduced crowding in peripheral vision. The effects of tES on visual acuity, motion perception and reaction time were not statistically significant. Conclusion There are significant effects of visual cortex tES on contrast sensitivity, VEP amplitude, an index of cortical excitability, and crowding among normally sighted individuals. Additional studies are required to enable a comparable meta-analysis of TMS effects. Future studies with robust experimental designs are needed to extend these findings to populations with vision loss. Clinical trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov/, identifier CRD42021255882.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umar M. Bello
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Physiotherapy and Paramedicine, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Jingying Wang
- School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Adela S. Y. Park
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ken W. S. Tan
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Blossom W. S. Cheung
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Benjamin Thompson
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Allen M. Y. Cheong
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- *Correspondence: Allen M. Y. Cheong,
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Leong SC, Tang YM, Toh FM, Fong KNK. Examining the effectiveness of virtual, augmented, and mixed reality (VAMR) therapy for upper limb recovery and activities of daily living in stroke patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2022; 19:93. [PMID: 36002898 PMCID: PMC9404551 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-022-01071-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR) are emerging technologies in the field of stroke rehabilitation that have the potential to overcome the limitations of conventional treatment. Enhancing upper limb (UL) function is critical in stroke impairments because the upper limb is involved in the majority of activities of daily living (ADL). METHODS This study reviewed the use of virtual, augmented and mixed reality (VAMR) methods for improving UL recovery and ADL, and compared the effectiveness of VAMR treatment to conventional rehabilitation therapy. The databases ScienceDirect, PubMed, IEEE Xplore, and Web of Science were examined, and 50 randomized control trials comparing VAMR treatment to standard therapy were determined. The random effect model and fixed effect model are applied based on heterogeneity. RESULTS The most often used outcomes of UL recovery and ADL in stroke rehabilitation were the Fugl-Meyer Assessment for Upper Extremities (FMA-UE), followed by the Box and Block Test (BBT), the Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT), and the Functional Independence Measure (FIM). According to the meta-analysis, VR, AR, and MR all have a significant positive effect on improving FMA-UE for UL impairment (36 studies, MD = 3.91, 95 percent CI = 1.70-6.12, P = 0.0005) and FIM for ADL (10 studies, MD = 4.25, 95 percent CI = 1.47-7.03, P = 0.003), but not on BBT and WMFT for the UL function tests (16 studies, MD = 2.07, 95 percent CI = - 0.58-4.72, P = 0.13), CONCLUSIONS: VAMR therapy was superior to conventional treatment in UL impairment and daily function outcomes, but not UL function measures. Future studies might include further high-quality trials examining the effect of VR, AR, and MR on UL function measures, with an emphasis on subgroup meta-analysis by stroke type and recovery stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sze Chit Leong
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
- Laboratory for Artificial Intelligence in Design, Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Yuk Ming Tang
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.
- Laboratory for Artificial Intelligence in Design, Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.
| | - Fong Mei Toh
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Kenneth N K Fong
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
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Linardi D, She W, Zhang Q, Yu Y, Qian PY, Lam H. Proteomining-Based Elucidation of Natural Product Biosynthetic Pathways in Streptomyces. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:913756. [PMID: 35898901 PMCID: PMC9309509 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.913756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The genus Streptomyces is known to harbor numerous biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) of potential utility in synthetic biology applications. However, it is often difficult to link uncharacterized BGCs with the secondary metabolites they produce. Proteomining refers to the strategy of identifying active BGCs by correlating changes in protein expression with the production of secondary metabolites of interest. In this study, we devised a shotgun proteomics-based workflow to identify active BGCs during fermentation when a variety of compounds are being produced. Mycelia harvested during the non-producing growth phase served as the background. Proteins that were differentially expressed were clustered based on the proximity of the genes in the genome to highlight active BGCs systematically from label-free quantitative proteomics data. Our software tool is easy-to-use and requires only 1 point of comparison where natural product biosynthesis was significantly different. We tested our proteomining clustering method on three Streptomyces species producing different compounds. In Streptomyces coelicolor A3(2), we detected the BGCs of calcium-dependent antibiotic, actinorhodin, undecylprodigiosin, and coelimycin P1. In Streptomyces chrestomyceticus BCC24770, 7 BGCs were identified. Among them, we independently re-discovered the type II PKS for albofungin production previously identified by genome mining and tedious heterologous expression experiments. In Streptomyces tenebrarius, 5 BGCs were detected, including the known apramycin and tobramycin BGC as well as a newly discovered caerulomycin A BGC in this species. The production of caerulomycin A was confirmed by LC-MS and the inactivation of the caerulomycin A BGC surprisingly had a significant impact on the secondary metabolite regulation of S. tenebrarius. In conclusion, we developed an unbiased, high throughput proteomics-based method to complement genome mining methods for the identification of biosynthetic pathways in Streptomyces sp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darwin Linardi
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Weiyi She
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- SZU-HKUST Joint PhD Program in Marine Environmental Science, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Ocean Science and Hong Kong Branch of Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Disease, Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yi Yu
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Disease, Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Pei-Yuan Qian
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Ocean Science and Hong Kong Branch of Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Henry Lam
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- *Correspondence: Henry Lam,
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