TFEB regulates dendritic cell antigen presentation to modulate immune balance in asthma

OBJECTIVE

Asthma stands as one of the most prevalent chronic respiratory conditions in children, with its pathogenesis tied to the actived antigen presentation by dendritic cells (DCs) and the imbalance within T cell subgroups. This study seeks to investigate the role of the transcription factor EB (TFEB) in modulating the antigen presentation process of DCs and its impact on the differentiation of T cell subgroups.

METHODS

Bone marrow dendritic cells (BMDCs) were activated using house dust mites (HDM) and underwent RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to pinpoint differentially expressed genes. TFEB mRNA expression levels were assessed in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of both healthy children and those diagnosed with asthma. In an asthma mouse model induced by HDM, the TFEB expression in lung tissue DCs was evaluated. Further experiments involved LV-shTFEB BMDCs co-cultured with T cells to explore the influence of TFEB on DCs' antigen presentation, T cell subset differentiation, and cytokine production.

RESULTS

Transcriptomic sequencing identified TFEB as a significantly differentially expressed gene associated with immune system pathways and antigen presentation. Notably, TFEB expression showed a significant increase in the PBMCs of children diagnosed with asthma compared to healthy counterparts. Moreover, TFEB exhibited heightened expression in lung tissue DCs of HDM-induced asthmatic mice and HDM-stimulated BMDCs. Silencing TFEB resulted in the downregulation of MHC II, CD80, CD86, and CD40 on DCs. This action reinstated the equilibrium among Th1/Th2 and Th17/Treg cell subgroups, suppressed the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, and IL-17, while augmenting the expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10.

CONCLUSION

TFEB might have a vital role in asthma's development by impacting the antigen presentation of DCs, regulating T cell subgroup differentiation, and influencing cytokine secretion. Its involvement could be pivotal in rebalancing the immune system in asthma. These research findings could potentially unveil novel therapeutic avenues for treating asthma.

Optimization of Bilayer Resistive Random Access Memory Based on Ti/HfO2/ZrO2/Pt

In this paper, the electrothermal coupling model of metal oxide resistive random access memory (RRAM) is analyzed by using a 2D axisymmetrical structure in COMSOL Multiphysics simulation software. The RRAM structure is a Ti/HfO2/ZrO2/Pt bilayer structure, and the SET and RESET processes of Ti/HfO2/ZrO2/Pt are verified and analyzed. It is found that the width and thickness of CF1 (the conductive filament of the HfO2 layer), CF2 (the conductive filament of the ZrO2 layer), and resistive dielectric layers affect the electrical performance of the device. Under the condition of the width ratio of conductive filament to transition layer (6:14) and the thickness ratio of HfO2 to ZrO2 (7.5:7.5), Ti/HfO2/ZrO2/Pt has stable high and low resistance states. On this basis, the comparison of three commonly used RRAM metal top electrode materials (Ti, Pt, and Al) shows that the resistance switching ratio of the Ti electrode is the highest at about 11.67. Finally, combining the optimal conductive filament size and the optimal top electrode material, the I-V hysteresis loop was obtained, and the switching ratio Roff/Ron = 10.46 was calculated. Therefore, in this paper, a perfect RRAM model is established, the resistance mechanism is explained and analyzed, and the optimal geometrical size and electrode material for the hysteresis characteristics of the Ti/HfO2/ZrO2/Pt structure are found.

In silico analysis of intestinal microbial instability and symptomatic markers in mice during the acute phase of severe burns

BACKGROUND

Severe burns may alter the stability of the intestinal flora and affect the patient's recovery process. Understanding the characteristics of the gut microbiota in the acute phase of burns and their association with phenotype can help to accurately assess the progression of the disease and identify potential microbiota markers.

METHODS

We established mouse models of partial thickness deep III degree burns and collected faecal samples for 16 S rRNA amplification and high throughput sequencing at two time points in the acute phase for independent bioinformatic analysis.

RESULTS

We analysed the sequencing results using alpha diversity, beta diversity and machine learning methods. At both time points, 4 and 6 h after burning, the Firmicutes phylum content decreased and the content of the Bacteroidetes phylum content increased, showing a significant decrease in the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio compared to the control group. Nine bacterial genera changed significantly during the acute phase and occupied the top six positions in the Random Forest significance ranking. Clustering results also clearly showed that there was a clear boundary between the communities of burned and control mice. Functional analyses showed that during the acute phase of burn, gut bacteria increased lipoic acid metabolism, seleno-compound metabolism, TCA cycling, and carbon fixation, while decreasing galactose metabolism and triglyceride metabolism. Based on the abundance characteristics of the six significantly different bacterial genera, both the XGboost and Random Forest models were able to discriminate between the burn and control groups with 100% accuracy, while both the Random Forest and Support Vector Machine models were able to classify samples from the 4-hour and 6-hour burn groups with 86.7% accuracy.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows an increase in gut microbiota diversity in the acute phase of deep burn injury, rather than a decrease as is commonly believed. Severe burns result in a severe imbalance of the gut flora, with a decrease in probiotics and an increase in microorganisms that trigger inflammation and cognitive deficits, and multiple pathways of metabolism and substance synthesis are affected. Simple machine learning model testing suggests several bacterial genera as potential biomarkers of severe burn phenotypes.

Unraveling Broadband Near-Infrared Luminescence in Cr3+-Doped Ca3Y2Ge3O12 Garnets: Insights from First-Principles Analysis

In this study, we conducted an extensive investigation into broadband near-infrared luminescence of Cr3+-doped Ca3Y2Ge3O12 garnet, employing first-principles calculations within the density functional theory framework. Our initial focus involved determining the site occupancy of Cr3+ activator ions, which revealed a pronounced preference for the Y3+ sites over the Ca2+ and Ge4+ sites, as evidenced by the formation energy calculations. Subsequently, the geometric structures of the excited states 2E and 4T2, along with their optical transition energies relative to the ground state 4A2 in Ca3Y2Ge3O12:Cr3+, were successfully modeled using the ΔSCF method. Calculation convergence challenges were effectively addressed through the proposed fractional particle occupancy schemes. The constructed host-referred binding energy diagram provided a clear description of the luminescence kinetics process in the garnet, which explained the high quantum efficiency of emission. Furthermore, the accurate prediction of thermal excitation energy yielded insights into the thermal stability of the compound, as illustrated in the calculated configuration coordinate diagram. More importantly, all calculated data were consistently aligned with the experimental results. This research not only advances our understanding of the intricate interplay between geometric and electronic structures, optical properties, and thermal behavior in Cr3+-doped garnets but also lays the groundwork for future breakthroughs in the high-throughput design and optimization of luminescent performance and thermal stability in Cr3+-doped phosphors.

Effect of different targets of goal-directed fluid therapy on intraoperative hypotension and fluid infusion in robot-assisted laparoscopic gynecological surgery: a randomized non-inferiority trial

Carotid corrected flow time (FTc) and tidal volume challenge pulse pressure variation (VtPPV) are useful clinical parameters for assessing volume status and fluid responsiveness in robot-assisted surgery, but their usefulness as goal-directed fluid therapy (GDFT) targets is unclear. We investigated whether FTc or VtPPV as targets are inferior to PPV in GDFT. This single-center, prospective, randomized, non-inferiority study included 133 women undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopic gynecological surgery in the modified head-down lithotomy position. Patients were equally divided into three groups, and the GDFT protocol was guided by FTc, VtPPV, or PPV during surgery. Primary outcomes were non-inferiority of the time-weighted average of hypotension, intraoperative fluid volume, and urine output. Secondary outcomes were optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) pre- and post-operatively and creatinine and blood urea nitrogen preoperatively and on day 1 post-operatively. No significant differences were observed in intraoperative hypotension index, infusion and urine volumes, and ONSD post-operatively between the FTc and VtPPV groups and the PPV group. No differences in serum creatinine and urea nitrogen levels were identified between the FTc and VtPPV groups preoperatively, but on day 1 post-operatively, the urea nitrogen level in the FTc group was higher than that in the PPV group (4.09 ± 1.28 vs. 3.0 ± 1.1 mmol/L, 1.08 [0.59, 1.58], p < 0.0001), and the difference from the preoperative value was smaller than that in the PPV group (- 2 [- 2.97, 1.43] vs. - 1.34 [- 1.9, - 0.67], p = 0.004). FTc- or VtPPV-guided protocols are not inferior to that of PPV in GDFT during robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery in the modified head-down lithotomy position.Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2200064419).

Effects of Oxygenation Targets on Mortality in Critically Ill Patients in Intensive Care Units: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

The effects of oxygenation targets (partial pressure of arterial oxygen [Pao2], arterial oxygen saturation [Sao2]/peripheral oxygen saturation [Spo2], or inspiratory oxygen concentration [Fio2] on clinical outcomes in critically ill patients remains controversial. We reviewed the existing literature to assess the effects of lower and higher oxygenation targets on the mortality rates of critically ill intensive care unit (ICU) patients.

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science databases were searched from their dates of inception to December 31, 2022, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing lower and higher oxygenation targets for critically ill patients ≥18 years of age undergoing mechanical ventilation, nasal cannula, oxygen mask, or high-flow oxygen therapy in the ICU. Data extraction was conducted independently, and RoB 2.0 software was used to evaluate the quality of each RCT. A random-effects model was used for the meta-analysis to calculate the relative risk (RR). We used the I2 statistic as a measure of statistical heterogeneity. Certainty of evidence was assessed according to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) guidelines.

RESULTS

We included 12 studies with a total of 7416 patients participating in RCTs. Oxygenation targets were extremely heterogeneous between studies. The meta-analysis found no differences in mortality between lower and higher oxygenation targets for critically ill ICU patients (relative risk [RR], 1.00; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.93-1.09; moderate certainty). The incidence of serious adverse events (RR, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.85-1.00; high certainty), mechanical ventilation-free days through day 28 (mean difference [MD], -0.05; 95%CI, -1.23 to 1.13; low certainty), the number of patients requiring renal replacement therapy (RRT) (RR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.84-1.10; low certainty), and ICU length of stay (MD, 1.05; 95% CI, -0.04 to 2.13; very low certainty) also did not differ among patients with lower or higher oxygenation targets.

CONCLUSIONS

Critically ill ICU patients ≥18 years of age managed with lower and higher oxygenation targets did not differ in terms of mortality, RRT need, mechanical ventilation-free days through day 28, or ICU length of stay. However, due to considerable heterogeneity between specific targets in individual studies, no conclusion can be drawn regarding the effect of oxygenation targets on ICU outcomes.

PPP3CB Inhibits Cell Proliferation and the Warburg Effect in Bladder Cancer by Blocking PDHK1

BACKGROUND

Cancer treatment has recently shifted towards metabolic approaches aimed at enhancing therapeutic efficacy. Somewhat surprisingly, a known regulator of energy metabolism in normal tissues, PPP3CB, is down-regulated in bladder cancer. This suggests that PPP3CB could exert an inhibitory effect on bladder cancer through its role in energy metabolism.

METHODS

To explore the above hypothesis, we employed non-targeted metabolism screening in bladder cancer cells with knockdown of PPP3CB. Glucose uptake and lactate production were carefully measured using specialized assay kits for glucose/lactic acid content. Western blot analysis was also used to evaluate the expression levels of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 1 (PDHK1) and p-PDHA1 in cells with PPP3CB knockdown. To substantiate the findings, co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP) experiments were performed to validate the interaction between PPP3CB and PDHK1. Various in vitro assays were also performed, including clone formation assay and Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8) viability assays. The in vivo anti-tumor potential of PPP3CB in bladder cancer was also studied using a nude mouse tumorigenesis model.

RESULTS

Significant down-regulation of PPP3CB was observed in bladder tumors, and potent anti-tumor effects of PPP3CB were observed in vitro. Investigation of the underlying mechanism by which PPP3CB hampers glycolysis in bladder cancer cells revealed that it interacted with PDHK1 to inhibit its protein stabilization. PDHK1 thus appears to be a crucial mediator through which PPP3CB exerts its inhibitory effects on bladder cancer cells.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, PPP3CB exerts strong inhibitory influences on bladder cancer cell proliferation and glycolysis via its destabilization of PDHK1. These results highlight the potential of PPP3CB as a novel regulator of the Warburg effect. Interestingly, the downregulation of PPP3CB in bladder cancer cells increases the Warburg effect, thereby generating more lactic acid and reshaping the tumor microenvironment so as to promote tumor cell proliferation.

Inhibiting cholesterol de novo synthesis promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression by upregulating prostaglandin E synthase 2-mediated arachidonic acid metabolism under high fatty acid conditions

Inhibition of cholesterol de novo synthesis (DNS) by statins has controversial effects on the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). High fatty acid conditions have been reported to limit the effect of statins on metabolism diseases. Whether high fatty acid conditions interfere with the effect of statins on HCC remains unclear. Here, we reported that inhibiting cholesterol DNS with atorvastatin promoted the oncogenic capabilities of diethylnitrosamine (DEN) in mice fed high fatty acid diets (HFD). The combined analysis of metabolomics and transcriptomics revealed that arachidonic acid (AA) metabolism was the most significant changed pathway between mice with and without atorvastatin treatment. In vitro, in the presence of AA precursor linoleic acid (LA), atorvastatin promoted the proliferation and migration ability of HCC cell lines. However, in the absence of LA, these phenomena disappeared. TCGA and tissue microarray examination revealed that prostaglandin e synthase 2 (PTGES2), a key enzyme in AA metabolism, was associated with the poor outcome of HCC patients. Overexpression of PTGES2 promoted the proliferation and migration of HCC cell lines, and knockdown of PTGES2 inhibited the proliferation and migration of cells. Additionally, atorvastatin upregulated PTGES2 expression by enhancing Sterol-regulatory element binding protein 2 (SREBP2)-mediated transcription. Knockdown of PTGES2 reversed the proliferation and migration ability enhanced by atorvastatin. Overall, our study reveals that a high fatty acid background is one of the possible conditions limiting the application of statins in HCC, under which statins promote the progression of HCC by enhancing SREBP2-mediated PTGES2 transcription.

Topological properties analysis and identification of mild cognitive impairment based on individual morphological brain network connectome

Mild cognitive impairment is considered the prodromal stage of Alzheimer's disease. Accurate diagnosis and the exploration of the pathological mechanism of mild cognitive impairment are extremely valuable for targeted Alzheimer's disease prevention and early intervention. In all, 100 mild cognitive impairment patients and 86 normal controls were recruited in this study. We innovatively constructed the individual morphological brain networks and derived multiple brain connectome features based on 3D-T1 structural magnetic resonance imaging with the Jensen-Shannon divergence similarity estimation method. Our results showed that the most distinguishing morphological brain connectome features in mild cognitive impairment patients were consensus connections and nodal graph metrics, mainly located in the frontal, occipital, limbic lobes, and subcortical gray matter nuclei, corresponding to the default mode network. Topological properties analysis revealed that mild cognitive impairment patients exhibited compensatory changes in the frontal lobe, while abnormal cortical-subcortical circuits associated with cognition were present. Moreover, the combination of multidimensional brain connectome features using multiple kernel-support vector machine achieved the best classification performance in distinguishing mild cognitive impairment patients and normal controls, with an accuracy of 84.21%. Therefore, our findings are of significant importance for developing potential brain imaging biomarkers for early detection of Alzheimer's disease and understanding the neuroimaging mechanisms of the disease.

Health involvement modulates physician preference in the brain during online health consultation

In traditional offline health-seeking behavior, patients consistently exhibit a preference for similar types of physicians due to limited access to physicians' information. Nevertheless, with the advent of online health consultation platforms offering comprehensive physicians' information for patients, raises the question: do patients continue to exhibit uniform preference for physicians? To address this issue, we first employed a behavioral experiment to discern patients' preferences for different types of physicians' information under different health involvement, and then conducted a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) experiment to furnish neural/physiological evidence. The results showed that health involvement modulates patients' preferences, when health involvement was low, patients had diverse preferences for physicians, that is, different types of physicians' information could individually impact patients' choice and could serve as substitutes for each other. When health involvement was high, patients' preference for physicians were uniform, highlighting that the collective influence of different types of physicians' information on patients' choice behavior. From the neural level, an explanation for the results was that the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (VMPFC) and ventral striatum (VS) brain regions, two key brain regions reflecting individual cognitive resource allocation, had different activation levels under different health involvement, indicating that patients allocated different cognitive resources.

[Inhibitory effect of Streptococcus mutans antisense vicK RNA regulating the cariogenicity of oral streptococci multi-species biofilm]

Objective: To investigate the regulative effects of Streptococcus mutans (Sm) antisense vicK RNA (ASvicK) on the multi-species biofilm formed by three common oral streptococci (Sm, Streptococcus sanguinis, and Streptococcus gordonii) (Sm+Ss+Sg). Methods: ASvicK over-expression strain was constructed by using a recombinant plasmid, and three-species biofilm UA159+Ss+Sg and ASvicK+Ss+Sg were cultured. The phenotypes of biofilms were detected by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Crystal violet (CV) assay was used to detect biofilm biomass. Lactate kit and anthrone-sulfuric acid colorimetric assay were used to determine the abilities of lactic acid and exopolysaccharides production, respectively. The proportions of three-species and expression levels of the cariogenic-related genes in biofilms were detected by TaqMan fluorescence quantitative PCR and real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR. A biofilm demineralization model of human enamel slabs was further constructed, and the hardness of enamel surface was detected. Results: Compared to UA159+Ss+Sg, over-expression of ASvicK could inhibit biofilm formation and lactic acid production in ASvicK+Ss+Sg biofilm significantly decreased by 78.93% (P<0.001) and 62.23% (P<0.001), respectively. With ASvicK over-expression, the amounts of water-insoluble and-soluble glucoses in ASvicK+Ss+Sg biofilm were reduced respectively by 39.13% (P<0.001) and 68.00% (P<0.001). Compared to the UA159+Ss+Sg Group, the proportion of Sm, the cariogenic bacteria, showed 33.00% reduction (P<0.01) in Sm+Ss+Sg biofilm, and the gene expressions of cariogenic-relative genes vicK/X, gtfB/C/D, and ftf significantly decreased (P<0.05). The micro-hardness value of enamel slabs after demineralization by ASvicK+Ss+Sg biofilm was significantly increased to 183.84% (P<0.001). Conclusions: ASvicK over-expression could reduce the Sm proportion and weaken the cariogenicity of oral Streptococcus biofilm, thereby possibly slowing down the progression of caries.

Unraveling the Electron Transfer Effect of Single-Metal Ce-N4 Sites via Mesopore-Coupling for Boosted Oxygen Reduction Activity

The development of cerium (Ce) single-atom (SA) electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) with high active-site utilization and intrinsic activity has become popular recently but remains challenging. Inspired by an interesting phenomenon that pore-coupling with single-metal cerium sites can accelerate the electron transfer predicted by density functional theory calculations, here, a facile strategy is reported for directional design of a highly active and stable Ce SA catalyst (Ce SA/MC) by the coupling of single-metal Ce-N4 sites and mesopores in nanocarbon via pore-confinement-pyrolysis of Ce/phenanthroline complexes combined with controlling the formation of Ce oxides. This catalyst delivers a comparable ORR catalytic activity with a half-wave potential of 0.845 V versus RHE to the Pt/C catalyst. Also, a Ce SA/MC-based zinc-air battery (ZAB) has exhibited a higher energy density (924 Wh kgZn -1 ) and better long-term cycling durability than a Pt/C-based ZAB. This proposed strategy may open a door for designing efficient rare-earth metal catalysts with single-metal sites coupling with porous structures for next-generation energy devices.

A Sol-Gel Transition and Self-Healing Hydrogel Triggered via Photodimerization of Coumarin

Reversible chemical covalency provides a path to materials that can degrade and recombine with appropriate stimuli and which can be used for tissue regeneration and repair. However, designing and preparing efficient and quickly self-healing materials has always been a challenge. The preparation strategies of photoresponsive gels attract a lot of attention due to their precise spatial and temporal control and their predetermined response to light stimulation. In this work, the linear copolymer PAC was synthesized via precipitation polymerization of acrylic acid and 7-(2-acrylate-ethoxylated)-4-methylcoumarin. The coumarin groups on the copolymer PAC side chains provide a reversible chemical cross-linking via photostimulation, which achieves reversible regulation of the gel network structure. The concentration of 18 wt% PAC solution produces gelation under irradiation with 365 nm. In contrast, PAC gel is restored to soluble copolymers under irradiation with 254 nm. Meanwhile, the mechanical and self-healing properties of the gel were also explored. It is demonstrated that the cracks of the gel can be repaired simply, quickly, and efficiently. Furthermore, the PAC copolymer shows an excellent adhesion property based on the reversible sol-gel transition. Thus, the PAC gel has considerable potential for applications in engineering and biomedical materials.

Outcomes of different parenchymal-sparing hepatectomies in patients with colorectal liver metastases and prognostic impact of peritumoral imaging features

OBJECTIVES

Parenchymal-sparing hepatectomy (PSH) is recommended in patients with colorectal liver metastases (CRLM). Based on the principle of PSH, to investigate the impact of anatomical resection (AR) and non-anatomic resection (NAR) on the outcome of CRLM and to evaluate the potential prognostic impact of three peritumoral imaging features.

METHODS

Fifty-six patients who had abdominal gadoxetic acid-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before CRLM surgery were included in this retrospective research. Peritumoral early enhancement, peritumoral hypointensity on hepatobiliary phase (HBP), and biliary dilatation to the CRLM at MRI were evaluated. Survival estimates were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method, and multivariate analysis was conducted to identify independent predictors of liver recurrence-free survival (LRFS), recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

NAR had a lower 3-year LRFS compared with AR (36.6% vs. 78.6%, p = 0.012). No significant differences were found in 3-year RFS (34.1% vs. 41.7%) and OS (61.7% vs. 81.3%) (p > 0.05). In NAR group, peritumoral early enhancement was associated with poor LRFS (p = < 0.001, hazard ratio [HR] = 6.260; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.322,16.876]) and poor RFS (p = 0.035, HR =2.516; 95% CI, 1.069,5.919). No independent predictors of CRLM were identified in the AR group.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with CRLM, peritumoral early enhancement was a predictor of LRFS and RFS after NAR according to the principle of PSH.

Comparison of the carotid corrected flow time and tidal volume challenge for assessing fluid responsiveness in robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery

We aimed to compare the ability of carotid corrected flow time assessed by ultrasound and the changes in dynamic preload indices induced by tidal volume challenge predicting fluid responsiveness in patients undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopic gynecological surgery in the modified head-down lithotomy position. This prospective single-center study included patients undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery in the modified head-down lithotomy position. Carotid Doppler parameters and hemodynamic data, including corrected flow time, pulse pressure variation, stroke volume variation, and stroke volume index at a tidal volume of 6 mL/kg predicted body weight and after increasing the tidal volume to 8 mL/kg predicted body weight (tidal volume challenge), respectively, were measured. Fluid responsiveness was defined as a stroke volume index ≥ 10% increase after volume expansion. Among the 52 patients included, 26 were classified as fluid responders and 26 as non-responders based on the stroke volume index. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve measured to predict the fluid responsiveness to corrected flow time and changes in pulse pressure variation (ΔPPV6-8) after tidal volume challenge were 0.82 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.71-0.94; P < 0.0001] and 0.85 (95% CI 0.74-0.96; P < 0.0001), respectively. The value for pulse pressure variation at a tidal volume of 8 mL/kg was 0.79 (95% CI 0.67-0.91; P = 0.0003). The optimal cut-off values for corrected flow time and ΔPPV6-8 were 357 ms and > 1%, respectively. Both the corrected flow time and Changes in pulse pressure variation after tidal volume challenge reliably predicted fluid responsiveness in patients undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopic gynecological surgery in the modified head-down lithotomy position. And pulse pressure variation at a tidal volume of 8 mL/kg maybe also a useful predictor.Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Register (CHiCTR2200060573, Principal investigator: Hongliang Liu, Date of registration: 05/06/2022).

Experimental and Numerical Investigation on Pile Foundation Underpinning Structure System in Urban Overpass

In view of the complexity of the pile foundation underpinning structure system and the stringent requirements of the construction process, this paper briefly describes the necessity of introducing epoxy resin reinforcing adhesive of planting rebar in the design of pile foundation underpinning beam structure to improve the mechanical properties of the reinforced beam new and old concrete joint surfaces and proposes a new type of pile foundation replacement beam system construction method by "chiseling + prestressed reinforcement + epoxy resin reinforcing adhesive". This paper uses an actual pile foundation underpinning project of an urban overpass as a prototype, designs and creates a model structure with a similarity ratio of 1/6, and performs repeated progressive static loading tests to study the load carrying capacity, displacement change, and other properties of the strengthened replacement structure, as well as analyses and distorts the overall working performance and failure mode of them. On this basis, the prototype structure's finite element analysis model was built, and the finite element analysis results were compared with the test results to obtain the mechanical properties and deformation characters of the actual pile foundation underpinning structure system corresponding to the actual underpinning beam load. This paper's study can lay the theoretical and experimental foundation for the smooth development of similar projects.

Quercetin promotes autophagy to alleviate cigarette smoke-related periodontitis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Cigarette smoking has been reported as an independent risk factor for periodontitis. Tobacco toxins affect periodontal tissue not only locally but also systemically, leading to the deterioration and recurrence of periodontitis. However, the mechanism of cigarette smoke-related periodontitis (CSRP) is unclear and thus lacks targeted treatment strategies. Quercetin, a plant-derived polyphenolic flavonoid, has been reported to have therapeutic effects on periodontitis due to its documented antioxidant activity. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of quercetin on CSRP and elucidated the underlying mechanism.

METHODS

The cigarette smoke-related ligature-induced periodontitis mouse model was established by intraperitoneal injection of cigarette smoke extract (CSE) and silk ligation of bilateral maxillary second molars. Quercetin was adopted by gavage as a therapeutic strategy. Micro-computed tomography was used to evaluate the alveolar bone resorption. Immunohistochemistry detected the oxidative stress and autophagy markers in vivo. Cell viability was determined by Cell Counting Kit-8, and oxidative stress levels were tested by 2,7-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate probe and lipid peroxidation malondialdehyde assay kit. Alkaline phosphatase and alizarin red staining were used to determine osteogenic differentiation. Network pharmacology analysis, molecular docking, and western blot were utilized to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanism.

RESULTS

Alveolar bone resorption was exacerbated and oxidative stress products were accumulated during CSE exposure in vivo. Oxidative stress damage induced by CSE caused inhibition of osteogenic differentiation in vitro. Quercetin effectively protected the osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLCs) and periodontal tissue by upregulating the expression of Beclin-1 thus to promote autophagy and reduce oxidative stress damage.

CONCLUSION

Our results established a role of oxidative stress damage and autophagy dysfunction in the mechanism of CSE-induced destruction of periodontal tissue and hPDLCs, and provided a potential application value of quercetin to ameliorate CSRP.

Study of the relationship between onset lateralization and hemispheric white matter asymmetry in Parkinson's disease

BACKGROUND

Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by a lateralized onset, but its cause and mechanism are still unclear.

METHODS

Obtaining diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) data from the Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI). Tract-based spatial statistics analysis and region-of-interest-based analysis were performed to evaluate the white matter (WM) asymmetry using original DTI parameters, Z Score normalized parameters, or the asymmetry index (AI). Hierarchical cluster analysis and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression were performed to construct predictive models for predicting the PD onset side. DTI data from The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University were obtained for external validation of the prediction model.

RESULTS

118 PD patients and 69 healthy controls (HC) from PPMI were included. Right-onset PD patients presented more asymmetric areas than left-onset PD patients. The inferior cerebellar peduncle (ICP), superior cerebellar peduncle (SCP), external capsule (EC), cingulate gyrus (CG), superior fronto-occipital fasciculus (SFO), uncinate fasciculus (UNC), and tapetum (TAP) showed significant asymmetry in left-onset and right-onset PD patients. An onset-side-specific pattern of WM alterations exists in PD patients, and a prediction model was constructed. The predicting models based on AI and ΔZ Score presented favorable efficacy in predicting PD onset side by external validation in 26 PD patients and 16 HCs from our hospital.

CONCLUSIONS

Right-onset PD patients may have more severe WM damage than left-onset PD patients. WM asymmetry in ICP, SCP, EC, CG, SFO, UNC, and TAP may predict PD onset side. Imbalances in the WM network may underlie the mechanism of lateralized onset in PD.

Microwave-induced thermoacoustic microscopy based on short-pulse microwave and high-frequency point-focused ultrasonic transducer

BACKGROUND

As an emerging hybrid imaging modality, microwave-induced thermoacoustic imaging (MITAI) provides high contrast and deep tissue penetration, and has been extensively applied in cancer diagnosis, arthritis detection, and brain research. However, the previous studies had a limited spatial resolution of about 0.45-1.5 mm.

PURPOSE

Here, we describe a microwave-induced thermoacoustic microscopy (MITAM) system to help overcome the resolution limitation of current MITAI to image more subtle tissue features. On this basis, this paper applies MITAM to the thin skin and to demonstrate the potential of MITAM in detecting scleroderma.

METHODS

To achieve high resolution, short pulse width microwave (pulse width: 70 ns) and high-frequency ultrasonic point-focused transducer (center frequency: 25 MHz) were used to build the MITAM system. Two parallel copper wires with a diameter of 90 μm in the X/Y plane and Y/Z plane were imaged to estimate X/Y/Z resolution. Nine Balb/c mice were randomly divided into three groups and injected with different concentrations of bleomycin to induce scleroderma models. Their ex vivo skins were then imaged by our MITAM system. Visual observations were performed on the 3-dimensional skins MITAM images. And the mean value, Standard deviation, quartile distance, and signal-to-noise ratio were calculated to verify the results of the qualitative observations. Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE) and Masson staining were used to validate the findings of the MITAM.

RESULTS

The thickness of each imaged skin was measured to be about 450 μm. As an organ composed of multiple layers of tissues, the skin needs to be imaged at high resolution for the detection of related diseases. The results obtained showed that the improved resolution (68 μm in the Z-axis and 135 μm in the X-axis/Y-axis) of MITAM over conventional MITAI allowed us to differentiate scleroderma skins from normal skins and to identify the severity of scleroderma skins, consistent with the pathological findings of these skins.

CONCLUSIONS

The preliminary results obtained indicate that the MITAM can relieve the resolution limitation of traditional MITAI and has the potential to detection scleroderma. However, the transmission-type MITAM mentioned in this paper is difficult to image in vivo due to the narrow area between the antenna and the transducer. In the future, a reflective scanning MITAM will be constructed to detect scleroderma in vivo.

Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of the TCP Gene Family Related to Developmental and Abiotic Stress in Ginger

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe), a widely consumed edible and medicinal plant, possesses significant nutritional and economic value. Abiotic stresses such as drought and low temperatures can impact the growth and development of ginger. The plant-specific transcription factor Teosinte branched1/cycloidea/proliferating cell factor (TCP) has progressively been identified in various plants for its role in regulating plant growth and development as well as conferring resistance to abiotic stresses. However, limited information on the TCP family is available in ginger. In this study, we identified 20 TCP members in the ginger genome, which were randomly distributed across 9 chromosomes. Based on phylogenetic analysis, these ginger TCP were classified into two subfamilies: Class I (PCF) and Class II (CIN, CYC/TB). The classification of the identified ginger TCPs was supported by a multi-species phylogenetic tree and motif structure analysis, suggesting that the amplification of the ginger TCP gene family occurred prior to the differentiation of angiosperms. The promoter region of ginger TCP genes was found to contain numerous cis-acting elements associated with plant growth, development, and abiotic stress response. Among these elements, the stress response element, anaerobic induction, and MYB binding site play a dominant role in drought responsiveness. Additionally, expression pattern analysis revealed variations in the expression of ginger TCP gene among different tissues and in response to diverse abiotic stresses (drought, low temperature, heat, and salt). Our research offers a thorough examination of TCP members within the ginger plant. This analysis greatly contributes to the understanding of how TCP genes regulate tissue development and response to stress, opening up new avenues for further exploration in this field.

Influence of High-Temperature and Intense Light on the Enzymatic Antioxidant System in Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) Plantlets

Environmental stressors such as high temperature and intense light have been shown to have negative effects on plant growth and productivity. To survive in such conditions, plants activate several stress response mechanisms. The synergistic effect of high-temperature and intense light stress has a significant impact on ginger, leading to reduced ginger production. Nevertheless, how ginger responds to this type of stress is not yet fully understood. In this study, we examined the phenotypic changes, malonaldehyde (MDA) content, and the response of four vital enzymes (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), lipoxygenase (LOX), and nitrate reductase (NR)) in ginger plants subjected to high-temperature and intense light stress. The findings of this study indicate that ginger is vulnerable to high temperature and intense light stress. This is evident from the noticeable curling, yellowing, and wilting of ginger leaves, as well as a decrease in chlorophyll index and an increase in MDA content. Our investigation confirms that ginger plants activate multiple stress response pathways, including the SOD and CAT antioxidant defenses, and adjust their response over time by switching to different pathways. Additionally, we observe that the expression levels of genes involved in different stress response pathways, such as SOD, CAT, LOX, and NR, are differently regulated under stress conditions. These findings offer avenues to explore the stress mechanisms of ginger in response to high temperature and intense light. They also provide interesting information for the choice of genetic material to use in breeding programs for obtaining ginger genotypes capable of withstanding high temperatures and intense light stress.

Tough, Eu3+ -Induced Luminescent Hydrogel as Flexible Chemosensor for Real-Time Quantitative Detection of Zn2+ Ion

Herein, a novel tough luminescent hydrogel with Europium is fabricated using a facile copolymerization process by introducing 2,2':6',2-terpyridine (TPy) into a dual physical cross-linked hydrogel. The obtained P(NAGA-co-MAAc)/Eu/TPy (x) (x refers to the feed ratio of NAGA to MAAc) hydrogels not only show outstanding mechanical performances (fracture strength, ≈2.5 MPa), but also give a special ability of rapid detection to low concentrations of zinc ions. Attractively, the theoretical limits of detection (LOD) of the hydrogel sensors are calculated as 1.6 µm, which is acceptable within the WHO limit. Furthermore, the continuous change in fluorescence of P(NAGA-co-MAAc)/Eu/TPy (10) strips upon contact with Zn2+ can be clearly observed by the naked eyes with the aid of a portable UV lamp, resulting in semi-quantitative naked-eyes detection through a standard colorimetric card. Moreover, by identifying the RGB value of the hydrogel sensor, it can also realize quantitative analysis. Therefore, excellence in sensing, simplicity in structure, and convenience in using make P(NAGA-co-MAAc)/Eu/TPy (10) hydrogel as a superior fluorescent chemosensor of Zn2+ ions.

Exploring the Heat Shock Transcription Factor (HSF) Gene Family in Ginger: A Genome-Wide Investigation on Evolution, Expression Profiling, and Response to Developmental and Abiotic Stresses

Ginger is a valuable crop known for its nutritional, seasoning, and health benefits. However, abiotic stresses, such as high temperature and drought, can adversely affect its growth and development. Heat shock transcription factors (HSFs) have been recognized as crucial elements for enhancing heat and drought resistance in plants. Nevertheless, no previous study has investigated the HSF gene family in ginger. In this research, a total of 25 ZoHSF members were identified in the ginger genome, which were unevenly distributed across ten chromosomes. The ZoHSF members were divided into three groups (HSFA, HSFB, and HSFC) based on their gene structure, protein motifs, and phylogenetic relationships with Arabidopsis. Interestingly, we found more collinear gene pairs between ZoHSF and HSF genes from monocots, such as rice, wheat, and banana, than dicots like Arabidopsis thaliana. Additionally, we identified 12 ZoHSF genes that likely arose from duplication events. Promoter analysis revealed that the hormone response elements (MEJA-responsiveness and abscisic acid responsiveness) were dominant among the various cis-elements related to the abiotic stress response in ZoHSF promoters. Expression pattern analysis confirmed differential expression of ZoHSF members across different tissues, with most showing responsiveness to heat and drought stress. This study lays the foundation for further investigations into the functional role of ZoHSFs in regulating abiotic stress responses in ginger.

The impact of green finance on the optimization of industrial structure: Evidence from China

Green finance promotes the optimization of industrial structure and continuous improvement of ecological environment by supporting the development of green industries. Based on the panel data of 30 provinces in China from 2012 to 2020, this paper uses the entropy weight TOPSIS method to measure the development level of green finance and the level of industrial structure optimization in China, and constructs a panel data model to empirically test the impact of green finance on the upgrading of China's industrial structure. The study finds that there is still an imbalance and insufficiency in the development of green finance and industrial structure optimization in China. From 2012 to 2020, the development level of green finance and the level of industrial structure optimization in China have been continuously rising, but there is obvious heterogeneity, showing an eastern>central>western spatial pattern. Empirical analysis results show that at the significance level of 1‰, the development of green finance has a significant promoting effect on the rationalization and upgrading of the industrial structure. However, there is significant heterogeneity in the impact of green finance on industrial structure optimization. In terms of regional heterogeneity, at the significance level of 1‰, the role of green finance in promoting the optimization of industrial structure in central and western China is higher than that in eastern China, and the impact of green finance on China's industrial structure shows a spatial pattern of western>central>eastern China. In terms of industry heterogeneity, at the significance level of 1‰, green finance has a significant promoting effect on the development of green industries, and a significant inhibiting effect on the development of high-energy-consuming industries. Specifically, in the green industry, green finance has the greatest promoting effect on the communication and other electronic equipment manufacturing industry; in the high-energy-consuming industry, green finance has the greatest inhibiting effect on the black metal smelting and rolling processing industry, and the smallest impact on the petroleum, coal and other fuel processing industry. Finally, based on this, policy suggestions for green finance to support the optimization of industrial structure are proposed from two dimensions: government and financial institutions.

Comparison of the Effects of Dexmedetomidine and Lidocaine on Stress Response and Postoperative Delirium of Older Patients Undergoing Thoracoscopic Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Purpose

We investigated the effects of intraoperative intravenous lidocaine or dexmedetomidine infusion on inflammatory factors and cognitive function in patients undergoing thoracoscopic surgery.

Patients and Methods

Patients aged >65 years undergoing elective thoracoscopic lobectomy or segmentectomy were randomly grouped as dexmedetomidine group (group D), lidocaine group (group L), and control group (group C). The plasma cortisol, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α concentrations were measured before anesthesia (T0) and immediately (T1), 24 h (T2), and 48 h postoperatively (T3). Postoperative delirium (POD) was assessed by 3D-CAM on days 2 and 7.

Results

The cortisol concentrations decreased for all groups at T1 from T0 although they were significantly higher at T2. Group L had significantly lower interleukin-6 concentrations at T1 and T2 than the other groups (P<0.05). The interleukin-6 concentrations were significantly higher at T1, T2, and T3 than at T0 for all the groups, significantly lower for groups D and L than for group C at T1 and T2 (P<0.05), and significantly lower for group L than for group D at T2 (P<0.05). The tumor necrosis factor-α concentrations were significantly higher at T1, T2, and T3 than at T0 for all the groups and significantly lower for groups D and L than for group C at T1 and T2 (P<0.05), although they were not statistically significantly different for groups D and L. There were no statistically significant differences in the postoperative incidence of POD between the three groups on days 2 and day 7.

Conclusion

Intraoperative continuous intravenous lidocaine or dexmedetomidine infusion reduced surgical stress and inflammatory responses. The inhibitory effect of lidocaine on surgical stress remained significant for up to 24 h postoperatively without affecting patient awakening. However, the administration of either drug failed to prevent postoperative POD.

[Clinical characteristics and risk factors for bronchoscopic airway mucus hypersecretion in childhood pneumonia infected by different pathogens]

Objective: To investigate the risk factors for airway mucus hypersecretion in childhood pneumonia infected by different pathogens. Method: A retrospective cohort included 968 children who were hospitalized for Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) pneumonia, adenovirus pneumonia and underwent bronchoscopy in Respiratory Department of Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University from January 2019 to December 2021 was conducted. The children were divided into two groups distinguished by airway mucus secretion according to the airway mucus hypersecretion score which were scored according to the mucus secretion under the bronchoscope. The demographic characteristics, clinical characteristics, laboratory tests and disease severity of the two groups were compared. And the risk factors for the development of airway mucus hypersecretion in two groups were analyzed. Chi square test, Mann-Whithey U test and Fisher exact test were used to analyze the differences between the two groups, and multivariate Logistic regression was used to analyze the influencing factors. Result: There were 559 males and 409 females in the 968 children, with an age of 4.0 (1.4, 6.0) years. Among the 642 children with MPP, 185 cases were in the hypersecretion group and 457 cases were in the non-hypersecretion group. There were 41 cases in the hypersecretion group and 160 cases in the non-hypersecretion group of 201 children with RSV pneumonia. In the 125 children with adenovirus pneumonia, there were 39 cases in the hypersecretion group and 86 cases in the non-hypersecretion group. In these children, the age of children in the hypersecretion group was older than that in the non-hypersecretion group (6.0 (4.0, 7.0) vs. 5.0 (3.0, 7.0) years old, 1.5 (0.5, 3.6) vs. 0.8 (0.4, 1.6) years old, 2.0 (1.2, 4.5) vs. 1.3 (0.8, 2.0) years old, U=35 295.00, 2 492.00, 1 101.00, all P<0.05). Through multivariate Logistic regression analysis it found that increased risk of airway mucus hypersecretion was present in childhood MPP with increase in peripheral blood white blood cell count (OR=3.30, 95%CI 1.51-7.93, P=0.004) or increase in neutrophil ratio (OR=2.24, 95%CI 1.16-4.33, P=0.016) or decrease in lymphocyte count (OR=3.22, 95%CI 1.66-6.31, P<0.001) or decrease in serum albumin (OR=2.00, 95%CI 1.01-3.98, P=0.047). The risk of airway mucus hypersecretion was increased in children with RSV pneumonia combined with elevated peripheral blood eosinophils (OR=3.04, 95%CI 1.02-8.93, P=0.043). Meanwhile, airway mucus hypersecretion was associated with severe pneumonia (OR=2.46, 95%CI 1.03-6.15, P=0.047) in children with RSV pneumonia. Older age was associated with increased risk of airway mucus hypersecretion in children with adenovirus pneumonia (OR=1.02, 95%CI 1.00-1.04, P=0.026). In these children with occurrence of pulmonary rales, wheezes or sputum sounds (OR=3.65, 95%CI 1.22-12.64, P=0.028) had an increased risk of airway mucus hypersecretion. Neutrophils in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) demonstrated higher ratio in hypersecretion group from children with MPP (0.65 (0.43, 0.81) vs. 0.59 (0.34, 0.76), U=24 507.00, P<0.01), while the proportion of macrophages in BALF was lower (0.10 (0.05, 0.20) vs. 0.12 (0.06, 0.24), U=33 043.00, P<0.05). Nucleated cell count and neutrophil ratio in BALF were higher in hypersecretion group of children with RSV pneumonia (1 210 (442, 2 100)×10⁶ vs. 490 (210, 1 510)×10⁶/L, 0.43 (0.26, 0.62) vs. 0.30 (0.13, 0.52), U=2 043.00, 2 064.00, all P<0.05). Conclusions: The increase in peripheral blood white blood cell count, neutrophil ratio and decrease in lymphocyte count, serum albumin in children with MPP is related to the development of airway mucus hypersecretion. In children with RSV pneumonia, the abnormal increase of eosinophils in peripheral blood has relationship with hypersecretion. The appearance of lung rale, wheezing, and sputum rale are associated with airway mucus hypersecretion in children with adenovirus pneumonia. In addition, local neutrophil infiltration in the respiratory tract is closely related to the occurrence of airway mucus hypersecretion caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae and RSV infection.

Microecological health assessment of water environment and sediment based on metagenomics: a case study of Guixi River in Chongqing, China

River sediment is vital in containing water pollution and strengthening water remediation. This paper has conducted a study on the microecological health assessment of the sediment and water body of Guixi River in Dianjiang, Chongqing, China, using metagenomics sequencing and microbial biological integrity index (M-IBI) technology. The analysis of physical and chemical characteristics shows that the concentration of TN varies from 2.62 to 9.76 mg/L in each sampling section, and the eutrophication of the water body is relatively severe. The proportion of Cyanobacteria in the sampling section at the sink entrance is higher than that of other sites, where there are outbreaks of water blooms and potential hazards to human health. The dominant functions of each site include carbon metabolism, TCA cycle, and pyruvate metabolism. In addition, the main virulence factors and antibiotic resistance genes in sediment are Type IV pili (VF0082), LOS (CVF494), MymA operon (CVF649), and macrolide resistance genes macB, tetracyclic tetA (58), and novA. Correlation analysis of environmental factors and microorganisms was also performed, and it was discovered that Thiothrix and Acidovorax had obvious gene expression in the nitrogen metabolism pathway, and the Guixi River Basin had a self-purification capacity. Finally, based on the microecological composition of sediment and physical and chemical characteristics of the water body, the health assessment was carried out, indicating that the main pollution area was Dianjiang Middle School and the watershed near the sewage treatment plant. The findings should theoretically support an in-depth assessment of the water environment's microecological health.

Maresin1 alleviates liver ischemia/reperfusion injury by reducing liver macrophage pyroptosis

BACKGROUND

Cell pyroptosis has a strong proinflammatory effect, but it is unclear whether pyroptosis of liver macrophages exacerbates liver tissue damage during liver ischemia‒reperfusion (I/R) injury. Maresin1 (MaR1) has a strong anti-inflammatory effect, and whether it can suppress liver macrophage pyroptosis needs further study.

METHODS

This study aimed to investigate whether MaR1 can alleviate liver I/R injury by inhibiting macrophage pyroptosis. The effects of MaR1 on cell pyroptosis and mitochondrial damage were studied by dividing cells into control, hypoxia/reoxygenation, and hypoxia/reoxygenation + MaR1 groups. Knocking out RORa was used to study the mechanism by which MaR1 exert its protective effects. Transcriptome analysis, qRT‒PCR and Western blotting were used to analyze gene expression. Untargeted metabolomics techniques were used to analyze metabolite profiles in mice. Flow cytometry was used to assess cell death and mitochondrial damage.

RESULTS

We first found that MaR1 significantly reduced liver I/R injury. We observed that MaR1 decreased liver I/R injury by inhibiting liver macrophage pyroptosis. Then, we discovered that MaR1 promotes mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, increases the synthesis of ATP, reduces the generation of ROS, decreases the impairment of mitochondrial membrane potential and inhibits the opening of mitochondrial membrane permeability transition pores. MaR1 inhibits liver macrophage pyroptosis by protecting mitochondria. Finally, we found that MaR1 exerts mitochondrial protective effects through activation of its nuclear receptor RORa and the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

During liver I/R injury, MaR1 can reduce liver macrophage pyroptosis by reducing mitochondrial damage, thereby reducing liver damage.

Reduced Survival and Resistance of Rhodotorula mucilaginosa Following Inhibition of Pigment Production by Naftifine

Pigments produced by micro-organisms could contribute to their pathogenesis and resistance. The investigation into the red pigment of R. mucilaginosa and its ability to survive and resist has not yet been explored. This study aimed to investigate the survival and resistance of the R. mucilaginosa CQMU1 strain following inhibition of pigment production by naftifine and its underlying mechanism. The red-pigmented Rhodotorula mucilaginosa CQMU1 yeast was isolated from an infected toenail of a patient with onychomycosis. Cultivation of R. mucilaginosa in liquid and solid medium showed the effect of naftifine after treatment. Then, analysis of phagocytosis and tolerance to heat or chemicals of R. mucilaginosa was used to evaluate the survival and resistance of yeast to different treatments. Naftifine reversibly inhibited the pigmentation of R. mucilaginosa CQMU1 in solid and liquid media. Depigmented R. mucilaginosa CQMU1 showed increased susceptibility toward murine macrophage cells RAW264.7 and reduced resistance toward different types of chemicals, such as 1.5-M NaCl and 0.5% Congo red. Inhibition of pigment production by naftifine affected the survival and growth of R. mucilaginosa and its resistance to heat and certain chemicals. The results obtained could further elucidate the target of new mycosis treatment.

Transcriptomic and Physiological Analyses of Two Rice Restorer Lines under Different Nitrogen Supplies Provide Novel Insights into Hybrid Rice Breeding

Improving plant nitrogen-use efficiency (NUE) has great significance for various crops, particularly in hybrid breeding. Reducing nitrogen inputs is key to achieving sustainable rice production and mitigating environmental problems. In this study, we analyzed the transcriptomic and physiological changes in two indica restorer lines (Nanhui511 [NH511] and Minghui23 [MH23]) under high nitrogen (HN) and low nitrogen (LN) conditions. Compared to MH23, NH511 was more sensitive to different nitrogen supplies and exhibited higher nitrogen uptake and NUE under HN conditions by increasing lateral root and tiller numbers in the seedling and maturation stages, respectively. NH511 also exhibited a lower survival rate than MH23 when planted in a chlorate-containing hydroponic solution, indicating its HN uptake ability under different nitrogen-supply conditions. Transcriptomic analysis showed that NH511 has 2456 differentially expressed genes, whereas MH23 had only 266. Furthermore, these genes related to nitrogen utilization showed differential expression in NH511 under HN conditions, while the opposite was observed in MH23. Our findings revealed that NH511 could be regarded as elite rice and used for breeding high-NUE restorer lines by regulating and integrating nitrogen-utilization genes, which provides novel insights for the cultivation of high-NUE hybrid rice.

Bioinspired Hydrophobicity Coupled with Single Fe-N4 Sites Promotes Oxygen Diffusion for Efficient Zinc-Air Batteries

The poor oxygen diffusion and sluggish oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) kinetics at multiphase interfaces in the cathode suppress the practical application of zinc-air batteries. Developing effective strategies to tackle the issue is of great significance for overcoming the performance bottleneck but remains challenging. Here, a multiscale hydrophobic surface is designed on the iron single-atom catalyst via a gas-phase fluorination-assisted method inspired by the structure of gas-trapping mastoids on lotus leaves. The hydrophobic Fe-FNC attains a higher peak power density of up to 226 mW cm^-2 , a long durability of up close to 140 h, and better cyclic durability of up to 300 cycles compared to the corresponding Pt/C-based Zn-air battery. Experiments and theoretical calculations indicate that the formed more triple-phase interfaces and exposed isolated Fe-N₄ sites are proposed as the governing factors in boosting electrocatalytic ORR activity and remarkable cycling durability for Zn-air batteries.

Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Genes Associated with Flooding Tolerance in Mulberry Plants

Mulberry (Morus alba), a widely distributed economic plant, can withstand long-term flooding stress. However, the regulatory gene network underlying this tolerance is unknown. In the present study, mulberry plants were subjected to submergence stress. Subsequently, mulberry leaves were collected to perform quantitative reverse-transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) and transcriptome analysis. Genes encoding ascorbate peroxidase and glutathione S-transferase were significantly upregulated after submergence stress, indicating that they could protect the mulberry plant from flood damage by mediating ROS homeostasis. Genes that regulate starch and sucrose metabolism; genes encoding pyruvate kinase, alcohol dehydrogenase, and pyruvate decarboxylase (enzymes involved in glycolysis and ethanol fermentation); and genes encoding malate dehydrogenase and ATPase (enzymes involved in the TCA cycle) were also obviously upregulated. Hence, these genes likely played a key role in mitigating energy shortage during flooding stress. In addition, genes associated with ethylene, cytokinin, abscisic acid, and MAPK signaling; genes involved in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis; and transcription factor genes also showed upregulation under flooding stress in mulberry plants. These results provide further insights into the adaptation mechanisms and genetics of submergence tolerance in mulberry plants and could aid in the molecular breeding of these plants.

Hypotonic induction of aquaporin5 expression in rat astrocytes through p38 MAPK pathway

Brain oedema is a common pathological phenomenon following many diseases and may lead to severe secondary damage. Astrocytes are the most numerous cells in the brain. Five aquaporins (AQPs) have been found in mature astrocytes, which play crucial roles in water transportation. However, most studies have focused on AQP4 or AQP9 and whether another aquaporin such as AQP5 involved in brain oedema is unclear. Here, we addressed the issue that the expression pattern of AQP5 in rat astrocytes in vitro was altered in the hypotonic condition through some mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) pathways. Primary astrocytes were randomly divided into the control group and the hypotonic group. Cell viability was evaluated by MTT test. Immunofluorescence, Western blotting and real-time PCR were used to detect the expression of AQP5. Western blotting was used to detect the variation of MAPK pathway. The present study demonstrated that incubation of astrocytes in the hypotonic medium produced an increase inAQP5 expression, and AQP5 peaked at 6-12 h after hypotension solution exposure. In addition, MAPK pathways were set in motion under hypotension, but not all branches. Only the p38 inhibitor can inhibit AQP5 expression in cultured astrocytes. AQP5 is directly related to the extracellular hypotonic stimuli in astrocytes, which could be regulated through the p38 MAPK pathway.

Drying kinetics and physicochemical properties of kumquat under hot air and air-impingement jet dryings

Kumquat is famous for its unique flavor and nutritional value. In this study, the drying kinetics, moisture effective diffusivity, phytochemical properties, and antioxidant capacities of kumquat dried by hot air drying (HAD) and air-impingement jet drying (AIJD) were comparatively investigated. The results showed that drying rate, moisture effective diffusivity, and nutrient retention under AIJD were better than those under HAD. Fourteen polyphenols were identified by UPLC-QqQ-MS/MS in kumquat slices. The content of limonoid was significantly increased after AIJD. It was also found that high temperature contributed to a higher drying rate. However, most of the polyphenol components decreased at high drying temperatures. Accordingly, AIJD 60 °C was regarded as the optimum condition for kumquat drying. This work contributed to a better understanding of the drying character of kumquat under AIJD and showed the bioactive compounds and antioxidant activities are affected by drying methods.

Progress of carbon-based electrocatalysts for flexible zinc-air batteries in the past 5 years: recent strategies for design, synthesis and performance optimization

The increasing popularity of wearable electronic devices has led to the rapid development of flexible energy conversion systems. Flexible rechargeable zinc-air batteries (ZABs) with high theoretical energy densities demonstrate significant potential as next-generation flexible energy devices that can be applied in wearable electronic products. The design of highly efficient and air-stable cathodes that can electrochemically catalyze both the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) are highly desirable but challenging. Flexible carbon-based catalysts for ORR/OER catalysis can be broadly categorized into two types: (i) self-supporting catalysts based on the in situ modification of flexible substrates; (ii) non-self-supporting catalysts based on surface coatings of flexible substrates. Methods used to optimize the catalytic performance include doping with atoms and regulation of the electronic structure and coordination environment. This review summarizes the most recently proposed strategies for the synthesis of designer carbon-based electrocatalysts and the optimization of their electrocatalytic performances in air electrodes. And we significantly focus on the analysis of the inherent active sites and their electrocatalytic mechanisms when applied as flexible ZABs catalysts. The findings of this review can assist in the design of more valuable carbon-based air electrodes and their corresponding flexible ZABs for application in wearable electronic devices.

Special AT-rich sequence-binding protein 2 (Satb2) synergizes with Bmp9 and is essential for osteo/odontogenic differentiation of mouse incisor mesenchymal stem cells

OBJECTIVES

Mouse incisor mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have self-renewal ability and osteo/odontogenic differentiation potential. However, the mechanism controlling the continuous self-renewal and osteo/odontogenic differentiation of mouse incisor MSCs remains unclear. Special AT-rich sequence-binding protein 2 (SATB2) positively regulates craniofacial patterning, bone development and regeneration, whereas SATB2 deletion or mutation leads to craniomaxillofacial dysplasia and delayed tooth and root development, similar to bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) loss-of-function phenotypes. However, the detailed mechanism underlying the SATB2 role in odontogenic MSCs is poorly understood. The aim of this study was to investigate whether SATB2 can regulate self-renewal and osteo/odontogenic differentiation of odontogenic MSCs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Satb2 expression was detected in the rapidly renewing mouse incisor mesenchyme by immunofluorescence staining, quantitative RT-PCR and Western blot analysis. Ad-Satb2 and Ad-siSatb2 were constructed to evaluate the effect of Satb2 on odontogenic MSCs self-renewal and osteo/odontogenic differentiation properties and the potential role of Satb2 with the osteogenic factor bone morphogenetic protein 9 (Bmp9) in vitro and in vivo.

RESULTS

Satb2 was found to be expressed in mesenchymal cells and pre-odontoblasts/odontoblasts. We further discovered that Satb2 effectively enhances mouse incisor MSCs self-renewal. Satb2 acted synergistically with the potent osteogenic factor Bmp9 in inducing osteo/odontogenic differentiation of mouse incisor MSCs in vitro and in vivo.

CONCLUSIONS

Satb2 promotes self-renewal and osteo/odontogenic differentiation of mouse incisor MSCs. Thus, Satb2 can cooperate with Bmp9 as a new efficacious bio-factor for osteogenic regeneration and tooth engineering.

Photocatalytic Performance and Degradation Pathway of Rhodamine B with TS-1/C3N4 Composite under Visible Light

TS-1/C3N4 composites were prepared by calcining the precursors with cooling crystallization method and were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectrum (DRS) and nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherm. The photocatalytic performance of TS-1/C3N4 composites was investigated to degrade Rhodamine B (RhB) under visible light irradiation. The results showed that all composites exhibited better photocatalytic performance than pristine TS-1 and C3N4; TS-1/C3N4-B composite (the measured mass ratio of TS-1 to C3N4 is 1:4) had best performance, with a rate constant of 0.04166 min-1, which is about two and ten times higher than those of C3N4 and TS-1, respectively. We attributed the enhanced photocatalytic performance of TC-B to the optimized heterostructure formed by TS-1 and C3N4 with proper proportion. From the results of photoluminescence spectra (PL) and the enhanced photocurrent, it is concluded that photogenerated electrons and holes were separated more effectively in TS-1/C3N4 composites. The contribution of the three main active species for photocatalytic degradation followed a decreasing order of ·O2-, ·OH and h+. The degradation products of RhB were identified by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), and the possible photocatalytic degradation pathways were proposed.

High-performance double-network ionogels enabled by electrostatic interaction

Production of highly conductive and mechanically robust ionogels is urgently needed for the development of diverse flexible electrical devices, but it remains challenging. Herein, we report a facile strategy to prepare high-performance ionogels (ionic conductivity of 1.9 S m-1, fracture strain of 170%) via electrostatic interaction between mechanically robust charged gel double networks and conductive ionic liquids. Ionogels based on charged polymer networks (with electrostatic interaction) exhibit obvious higher optical transmittance, ionic conductivity, and better mechanical properties compared with those based on neutral polymer networks (without electrostatic interaction). Ionic conductivity and mechanical properties of the ionogels can also be regulated by the double-network structure of the gels. We further develop an ionic skin sensor with the high-performance ionogels used as ionic conductors, which can exhibit excellent sensing performance even under harsh conditions. We envision that this new class of high-performance ionogels would be an attractive alternative to traditional hydrogels, and would extend the applications of ionic conductors to extreme environments.

High-Performance Quasi-2D Perovskite Light-Emitting Diodes Via Poly(vinylpyrrolidone) Treatment

In this work, we fabricate poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP)-treated Ruddlesden-Popper two-dimensional (quasi-2D) PPA₂(CsPbBr₃)₂PbBr₄ perovskite light-emitting diodes (PeLEDs) and achieved a peak brightness of 10,700 cd m^-2 and peak current efficiency of 11.68 cd A^-1, threefold and tenfold higher than that of the pristine device (without PVP), respectively. It can be attributed that the additive of PVP can suppress the pinholes of perovskite films owing to the excellent film-forming property, inhibiting the leakage current. Besides, PVP treatment facilitates the formation of compact perovskite films with defect reduction. Our work paves a novel way for the morphology modulation of quasi-2D perovskite films.

Central pattern generator-based coupling control method for synchronously controlling the two-degrees-of-freedom robot

Synchronous control is a fundamental and significant problem for controlling a multi-joint robot. In this article, by applying two coupled Rayleigh oscillators as the referred central pattern generator models for the two joints of a two-degrees-of-freedom robot, the central pattern generator-based coupling control method is proposed for controlling the two-degrees-of-freedom robot's joints. On these bases, the co-simulation model of the two-degrees-of-freedom robot with the proposed central pattern generator-based coupling control method is established via ADAMS and MATLAB/Simulink, and the performance of the central pattern generator-based coupling control method on synchronizing two motions of two-degrees-of-freedom robot's joints is numerically simulated. Furthermore, the experimental setup of a two-degrees-of-freedom robot is established based on the real-time simulations system via the proposed central pattern generator-based coupling control method. And experiments are carried out on the established setup. Simulations and experimental results show that the phase of the controlled two-degrees-of-freedom robot's joints is mutual locked to other, and their motion pattern can be adjusted through the coupling parameter in the central pattern generator-based coupling control method. In conclusion, the proposed central pattern generator-based coupling control method can control the two-degrees-of-freedom robot's joints to produce the coordinated motions and adjust the rhythmic pattern of the two-degrees-of-freedom robot.

Phase Engineering for Highly Efficient Quasi-Two-Dimensional All-Inorganic Perovskite Light-Emitting Diodes via Adjusting the Ratio of Cs Cation

Quasi-two-dimensional (2D) perovskites have received intensive attention as a new class of luminescent materials owing to large exciton binding energy and high photoluminescence efficiency. However, there usually contains a mixture of phases in these materials, and excessive low-dimensional phase perovskite is harmful for luminescence efficiency owing to the strong exciton-phonon quenching at the room temperature. Herein, a simple and effective method is proposed to suppress the growth of low-dimensional phase components in quasi-2D perovskite film via carefully adjusting the molar ratio of cesium bromide (CsBr) and phenylpropylammonium bromide (PPABr). The device based on this optimized film has achieved a peak brightness of 2921 cd m^-2 and peak current efficiency of 1.38 cd A^-1, far away higher than that of the pristine CsPbBr₃ device. This research proves a new way for modulating the phase composition in quasi-2D perovskites to fabricate highly efficient perovskite light-emitting diodes (PeLEDs).

Study of stiffness and bearing capacity degradation of reinforced concrete beams under constant-amplitude fatigue

For a reinforced concrete beam subjected to fatigue loads, the structural stiffness and bearing capacity will gradually undergo irreversible degeneration, leading to damage. Moreover, there is an inherent relationship between the stiffness and bearing capacity degradation and fatigue damage. In this study, a series of fatigue tests are performed to examine the degradation law of the stiffness and bearing capacity. The results pertaining to the stiffness show that the stiffness degradation of a reinforced concrete beam exhibits a very clear monotonic decreasing "S" curve, i.e., the stiffness of the beam decreases significantly at the start of the fatigue loading, it undergoes a linear decline phase in the middle for a long loading period, and before the failure, the bearing capacity decreases drastically again. The relationship between the residual stiffness and residual bearing capacity is determined based on the assumption that the residual stiffness and residual bearing capacity depend on the same damage state, and then, the bearing capacity degradation model of the reinforced concrete beam is established based on the fatigue stiffness. Through the established model and under the premise of the known residual stiffness degradation law, the degradation law of the bearing capacity is determined by using at least one residual bearing capacity test data, for which the parameters of the stiffness degradation function are considered as material constants. The results of the bearing capacity show that the bearing capacity degradation of the reinforced concrete beam also exhibits a very clear monotonic decreasing "S" curve, which is consistent with the stiffness degradation process and in good agreement with the experiment. In this study, the stiffness and bearing capacity degradation expressions are used to quantitatively describe their occurrence in reinforced concrete beams. In particular, the expression of the bearing capacity degradation can mitigate numerous destructive tests and save cost. The stiffness and bearing capacity degradation expressions for a reinforced concrete beam can be used to predict the deformation and bearing capacity of a structure during the service process and determine the structural fatigue damage and degree of degradation.

The Oxygen Reduction Electrocatalytic Activity of Cobalt and Nitrogen Co-doped Carbon Nanocatalyst Synthesized by a Flat Template

The design of noble-metal-free catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is very important to the commercialization of fuel cells. Here, we use a Co-modified montmorillonite (Co-MMT) as a flat template to prepare Co- and N-doped nanocarbon ORR catalysts derived from carbonization of polyaniline at controlled temperatures. The use of flat template can hinder the agglomeration of polyaniline during pyrolysis process and optimize the N-rich active site density on the surface. The addition of transition metal Co in the flat MMT template can largely promote the formation of Co-N sites in prepared catalyst, facilitating the effective improvement of catalytic activity towards the ORR with a direct four-electron transfer pathway. The excellent ORR activity may be mainly attributed to high contents of graphitic N, pyridinic-N, and Co-N configurations. This study opens a new way to rationally design cheap and active ORR catalysts by using simple flat compound as a direct template.

Heavily Graphitic-Nitrogen Self-doped High-porosity Carbon for the Electrocatalysis of Oxygen Reduction Reaction

Large-scale production of active and stable porous carbon catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) from protein-rich biomass became a hot topic in fuel cell technology. Here, we report a facile strategy for synthesis of nitrogen-doped porous nanocarbons by means of a simple two-step pyrolysis process combined with the activation of zinc chloride and acid-treatment process, in which kidney bean via low-temperature carbonization was preferentially adopted as the only carbon-nitrogen sources. The results show that this carbon material exhibits excellent ORR electrocatalytic activity, and higher durability and methanol-tolerant property compared to the state-of-the-art Pt/C catalyst for the ORR, which can be mainly attributed to high graphitic-nitrogen content, high specific surface area, and porous characteristics. Our results can encourage the synthesis of high-performance carbon-based ORR electrocatalysts derived from widely-existed natural biomass.

Meta-analyses of comparative efficacy of antidepressant medications on peripheral BDNF concentration in patients with depression

Background

Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is one of the most important regulatory proteins in the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder (MDD). Increasing numbers of studies have reported the relationship between serum/plasma BDNF and antidepressants (ADs). However, the potential effects of several classes of antidepressants on BDNF concentrations are not well known. Hence, our meta-analyses aims to review the effects of differential antidepressant drugs on peripheral BDNF levels in MDD and make some recommendations for future research.

Methods

Electronic databases including PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and PsycINFO were searched from 1980 to June 2016. The change in BDNF levels were compared between baseline and post-antidepressants treatment by use of the standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). All statistical tests were two-sided.

Results

We identified 20 eligible trials of antidepressants treatments for BDNF in MDD. The overall effect size for all drug classes showed that BDNF levels were elevated following a course of antidepressants use. For between-study heterogeneity by stratification analyses, we detect that length of treatment and blood samples are significant effect modifiers for BDNF levels during antidepressants treatment. While both SSRIs and SNRIs could increase the BDNF levels after a period of antidepressant medication treatment, sertraline was superior to other three drugs (venlafaxine, paroxetine or escitalopram) in the early increase of BDNF concentrations with SMD 0.53(95% CI = 0.13–0.93; P = 0.009).

Conclusions

There is some evidence that treatment of antidepressants appears to be effective in the increase of peripheral BDNF levels. More robust evidence indicates that different types of antidepressants appear to induce differential effects on the BDNF levels. Since sertraline makes a particular effect on BDNF concentration within a short amount of time, there is potential value in exploring its relationship with BDNF and its pharmacological mechanism concerning peripheral blood BDNF. Further confirmatory trials are required for both observations.

Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity of the Carbon Quantum Dot-Modified BiOI Microsphere

Novel carbon quantum dot (CQD)-modified BiOI photocatalysts were prepared via a facile hydrothermal process. The CQD-modified BiOI materials were characterized by multiple techniques. The CQD with an average size around several nanometers was distributed on the surface of BiOI microsphere. Its photocatalytic activity was investigated sufficiently by the photodegradation of methylene orange (MO). The results showed that the CQD/BiOI 1.5 wt.% sample exhibited the optimum photocatalytic activity, which was 2.5 times that of the pure BiOI. This improvement was attributed to the crucial role of CQDs, which could be acted as a photocenter for absorbing solar light, charge separation center for suppressing charge recombination.

Cache Scheme Based on Pre-Fetch Operation in ICN

Many recent researches focus on ICN (Information-Centric Network), in which named content becomes the first citizen instead of end-host. In ICN, Named content can be further divided into many small sized chunks, and chunk-based communication has merits over content-based communication. The universal in-network cache is one of the fundamental infrastructures for ICN. In this work, a chunk-level cache mechanism based on pre-fetch operation is proposed. The main idea is that, routers with cache store should pre-fetch and cache the next chunks which may be accessed in the near future according to received requests and cache policy for reducing the users’ perceived latency. Two pre-fetch driven modes are present to answer when and how to pre-fetch. The LRU (Least Recently Used) is employed for the cache replacement. Simulation results show that the average user perceived latency and hops can be decreased by employed this cache mechanism based on pre-fetch operation. Furthermore, we also demonstrate that the results are influenced by many factors, such as the cache capacity, Zipf parameters and pre-fetch window size.