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Cordyceps cicadae is recognized for its medicinal properties, attributed to bioactive constituents like polysaccharides and adenosine, which have been shown to improve kidney and liver functions and possess anti-tumor properties. Rho GTPase activating proteins (Rho GAPs) serve as inhibitory regulators of Rho GTPases in eukaryotic cells by accelerating the GTP hydrolysis of Rho GTPases, leading to their inactivation. In this study, we explored the function of the CcRga8 gene in C. cicadae, which encodes a Rho-type GTPase activating protein. Our study found that the knockout of CcRga8 resulted in a decrease in polysaccharide levels and an increase in adenosine concentration. Furthermore, the mutants exhibited altered spore yield and morphology, fruiting body development, decreased infectivity, reduced resistance to hyperosmotic stress, oxidative conditions, and cell wall inhibitors. These findings suggest that CcRga8 plays a crucial role in the development, stress response, and bioactive compound production of C. cicadae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is very challenging to demonstrate the intrinsic feature and absorption mechanism for electromagnetic (EM) wave absorber since dipole polarization loss is always discussed together with magnetic loss, conductive loss, defects/interfacial polarization, and so on. To address this issue, here, a kind of atomic composites is reported, including single‐atom Co and Co cluster with controllable atom dipole to tune the polarization and establish the link between dipole polarization and the EM wave absorption. Using a chemical synthesis route, the atomic composites are fabricated, including Co single‐atom (SA) sites and cluster (Cs) on nitrogen‐doped graphitic carbon (Co1+Cs/NGC). Due to the special design, the effect of magnetic loss, conductive loss, and interfacial polarization on EM wave dissipation can be ignored so that it can only highlight dielectric loss caused by dipole polarization. And, by controlling the Co atoms concentration, it can tune the valence state of Co atoms between 0 to +2 to control dipole polarization and relaxation. As a result, the Co1+Cs/NGC‐2 with Co concentration of 6.0 wt% exhibits optimized dipole moments and thus excellent absorption performance (the reflection loss exceeds −54.3 dB, and the effective absorption bandwidth with RL ≤−10 dB reaches 7.0 GHz at 2.0 mm) due to the effective dipole polarization caused by the large annular dipole bounded between Co SA sites and Co Cs. This study proposes a simplified model to clarify EM wave absorption mechanism from atom view. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The NLR family CARD domain containing 3 (NLRC3) gene has been reported to have a crucial effect on immunity, inflammation, and tumorigenesis. However, the clinical relevance of NLRC3 in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remains unclear. This study analyzed both RNA sequencing data and corresponding clinical outcomes obtained from public databases to identify (i) NLRC3 as a tumor suppressor in LUAD and (ii) its predictive value for the likelihood of patient responsiveness to immunotherapy. The results showed that NLRC3 expression was reduced in LUAD and was lower in advanced-stage tumors. Additionally, reduced NLRC3 expression was correlated with worse patient prognosis. The protein level of NLRC3 was also observed to have prognostic significance. Moreover, downregulation of NLRC3 was found to suppress the chemotaxis and infiltration of antitumor lymphocyte subpopulations as well as natural killer cells. Mechanistic analysis indicated that NLRC3 may be involved in immune infiltration by regulating chemokines and their receptors in LUAD. Furthermore, NLRC3 functions as a molecular switch in macrophages, whereby it mediates the polarization of M1 macrophages. Patients with high NLRC3 expression were also found to exhibit a more promising response to immunotherapy. In conclusion, NLRC3 could serve as a potential prognostic biomarker for LUAD, help predict the immunotherapeutic response of patients, and guide personalized strategies for the treatment of LUAD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a complex, heterogeneous malignant hematologic disease. Although multiple prognostic-related genes gave been explored in previous studies, there are still many genes whose prognostic value remains unclear. In this study, a total of 1532 AML patients from three GEO databases were included, five genes with potential prognostic value (DLC1, NF1B, DENND5B, TANC2 and ELAVL4) were screened by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and support vector machine recursive feature elimination (SVM-RFE). Based on this, we conducted survival analysis of the above five genes through the TCGA database and found that low level of DLC1 was detrimental to the long-term prognosis of AML patients. We also performed external validation in 48 AML patients from our medical center to analyze the impact of DLC1 level on prognosis. In conclusion, DLC1 may be a potential marker affecting the prognosis of AML, and its deficiency is associated with poor prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Complement activation plays an important role in the pathogenesis of IgA nephropathy (IgAN). We aimed to evaluate the relationship between mesangial C3 deposition and histologic lesions and to investigate the role of mesangial C3 deposition and serum C3 reduction in predicting renal outcome in IgAN children. Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study in children with biopsy-proven IgAN. Mesangial C3 deposition (< 2+ vs. ≥ 2+) was detected by the immunofluorescence. Histopathologic kidney grades were determined by the Oxford classification. A decreased serum C3 concentration (hypoC3) was defined when C3 < 90 mg/dl. The endpoint was composite kidney outcome with either a 30% decline in glomerular filtration rates from baseline or kidney failure during the follow-up period. Results: A total of 98 children were analyzed. Mesangial hypercellularity (M) was an independent factor associated with mesangial C3 deposition (HR 3.267; 95% CI 1.028–10.389; P = 0.045). After a median follow-up period of 25 months (interquartile range 18–36 months), 6 (6.1%) children reached the endpoint. Compared with other children, a significantly higher proportion of children with composite kidney outcomes had mesangial C3 deposition ≥ 2+ and hypoC3 (3.4% versus 27.3%, P = 0.002). After adjustment for clinicopathologic risk factors, mesangial C3 deposition ≥ 2+ and hypoC3 were associated with renal outcome (HR 9.772; 95% CI 1.264–75.518; P = 0.029). Conclusion: Mesangial C3 deposition was associated with M in IgAN. Mesangial C3 deposition and hypoC3 were risk factors for renal outcome in children with IgAN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is controversy over whether IgA nephropathy (IgAN) and Henoch–Schönlein purpura nephritis (HSPN) are the same diseases. This study focuses on the clinicopathological comparison between HSPN and IgAN in children. Methods: Children with IgAN and HSPN who had a diagnostic renal biopsy were enrolled. This study collected the clinical data of patients at biopsy, re-evaluated the pathological lesions of patients according to the Oxford Classification (MEST-C), and made a retrospective comparison between IgAN and HSPN on different stratifications of the course (Tc) and proteinuria. Results: A total of 142 children with IgAN and 57 children with HSPN were enrolled. Various stratification showed the same result, which suggested that IgAN showed more mesangial proliferation (M). HSPN showed more segmental glomerulosclerosis in the Tc > 12 m group than IgAN (S 60.0% vs. 9.10%, P = 0.008). In the non-nephrotic-range and nephrotic-range proteinuria group, there were no significant differences in MEST-C scores between IgAN and HSPN. Conclusion: M is more common in IgAN. HSPN had more S than IgAN over the course of more than 12 months. These results indicate the differences in the pathogenesis in IgAN and HSPN. We propose early biopsy and active treatment of HSPN within 12 months to delay the development of chronic lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asphalt and filler interaction plays a key role on the performances of asphalt mastics and mixtures, while the asphalt and filler interaction ability is in turn affected by the material characteristics. In order to analyse the effects of material characteristics on asphalt and filler interaction, two kinds of matrix asphalt binders and three kinds of fillers were used to prepare asphalt mastics with different filler volume fractions. The dynamic shear rheological properties of these asphalt mastics were measured. The evaluation index K–B–G* was calculated subsequently to analyse the effects of material characteristics on the asphalt and filler interaction ability. The results show that filler volume fraction, filler particle size, SiO2 content and asphalt components had various levels of effects on the asphalt and filler interaction ability. Variance analysis was then conducted to rank these influencing factors from high to low as: (1) filler particle size, (2) asphaltene and resins content, (3) filler volume fraction, and (4) SiO2 content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• WPI and KGM could be used as emulsifiers to stabilize W/O/W emulsion gels. • The structure network of emulsion gels was more compact with the addition of KGM. • KGM improved the physical stabilities and gel properties of emulsion gels. • The addition of KGM reduced the digestion rate of protein and oil droplets. • WPI-KGM enhanced the bioaccessibility of GSP encapsulated in emulsion gels. In this work, the effects of konjac glucomannan (KGM) concentrations on microstructure, gel properties, stability and digestibility of water-in-oil-in-water emulsion gels stabilized by polyglycerol polyricinoleate and whey protein isolate were investigated. Visual appearance indicated that a non-layered double emulsion gel was formed when KGM increased to 0.75%. Emulsion gels with 1.5% KGM showed the highest encapsulation, freeze-thaw and photochemical stability due to the formation of the smallest droplets, which were supported by microscopic observations. Moreover, the addition of KGM improved water holding capacity, rheological and texture properties of emulsion gels. Particularly, at 1.5% or 1.75% KGM, color and potential of hydrogen showed the most stable level after 14 days of storage. During in vitro digestion, KGM delayed the hydrolysis of protein and oil droplets, and then improved the bioavailability of grape seed proanthocyanidin. These results promoted the application of KGM in emulsion gels and the encapsulation of nutraceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titania sorbents loaded with cobalt ceria oxides prepared by a co-precipitation method were employed to remove elemental mercury (Hg0) from simulated syngas at low temperatures (80–240 °C). The effects of the Co/Ce mass ratio, reaction temperature and main syngas components (H2S, H2, CO) on Hg0 removal efficiency were investigated. BET, XRD and XPS were employed to characterize the sorbents. The results showed that up to 92% Hg0 removal efficiency could be obtained over Ce0.2Co0.1Ti at 120 °C. The remarkably high Hg0 removal efficiency of Ce0.2Co0.1Ti was attributed to the synergistic effect of cobalt and ceria. H2 and CO had a negligible effect on Hg0 removal under a N2 or H2S atmosphere. The characterization results indicated that the physical properties were not the main factors affecting the adsorbent activity. Moreover, XRD and XPS were used to elucidate the reaction mechanism between cobalt and ceria. Furthermore, Hg0 removal over Ce0.2Co0.1Ti was proposed to follow the Langmuir–Hinshelwood mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed to investigate the effects of ginseng powder and combined starter culture (the mass ratio of Lactobacillus plantarum to Lactobacillus rhamnosus was 1:1, Lp-Lr) on oxidative stability, microbial growth and quality characteristics of sausages. Compared with natural fermentation, the combination of ginseng powder and Lp-Lr in sausages reduced the oxidation degree of lipid and protein, improved the DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging capacities, and increased the variety and content of identified volatile flavor compounds. High-throughput sequencing analysis revealed the combination of ginseng powder and Lp-Lr improved the abundance of lactic acid bacteria, and inhibited the growth of harmful bacteria (i.e., Acinetobacter , Halovibrio and Alkalibacillus) in sausages after 30 days. During storage, the pH values and nitrite contents of all sausages were within the appropriate ranges, and the addition of ginseng powder and Lp-Lr in sausages displayed a smaller variable range of color and texture than natural fermented sausages. These findings suggest that the ginseng powder and Lp-Lr had positive effects on quality, oxidative stability, flavor profiles and microbial safety in sausages. • Ginseng power and Lp-Lr could be used as healthy ingredients in sausage. • Ginseng powder fermented sausage had better quality characteristics than control sausage. • Ginseng powder and Lp-Lr improved the oxidative stability of sausage. • The growth of harmful bacteria could be inhibited in ginseng powder fermented sausage. • A total of 47 volatile compounds were detected in sausages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Platelet transfusion refractoriness (PTR) is an intractable issue in hematological patients, which increases bleeding risks and hospitalization costs to a great extent. We reviewed 108 patients with hematological diseases including acute leukemia, myelodysplastic syndrome, aplastic anemia, and others who received allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) from January 2019 through December 2020. After multivariable logistic regression, we found that splenomegaly (odds ratio [OR] = 26.98, p <.001) and JAK mutation (OR = 17.32, p =.024) were independent risk factors for PTR. During the period of transplantation, patients in the PTR group had a significantly higher platelet transfusion demand, which was reflected in the increased number of platelet transfusions (10.23 ± 6.696 vs. 5.06 ± 1.904, p <.001). After multivariate adjustment, PTR turned out to be independently associated with worse overall survival (hazard ratio = 2.794, 95% confidence interval = 1.083–7.207, p =.034). In conclusion, we found that splenomegaly and JAK gene mutation were independent risk factors for PTR in patients with hematological diseases. A history of PTR prior to allo-HSCT indicates a poor prognosis. What is the context? Platelet transfusion refractoriness is a critical issue, and it greatly increases bleeding risks and hospitalization costs. Patients with hematological diseases tend to develop PTR. PTR results from immune and nonimmune factors and the latter account for 80–90%. At present, there are few studies focused on the inducing factors of PTR, and the specific mechanism is not clear. What is new? In this study, we investigated 108 patients with hematological disorders who received allogeneic HSCT from January 2019 to December 2020. We found that splenomegaly and JAK gene mutation were independent risk factors for PTR in patients with hematological diseases. PTR had a passive effect on the prognosis of patients after HSCT, as indicated by worse OS and a trend toward lower platelets after transplantation. PTR might affect megakaryocyte reconstitution after transplantation. What is the impact? This study provides evidence that hematological patients with splenomegaly should be alert to the occurrence of PTR, which often indicates a worse prognosis of transplantation. Spleen reduction and JAK inhibitors in the treatment of PTR are worth exploring. Abbreviations PLT: platelets; PTR: platelet transfusion refractoriness; HSCT: hematopoietic stem cell transplantation; OR: odds ratio; HR: hazard ratio; CI: confidence interval; IQR: interquartile range; SD: standard deviation; HLA: human leukocyte antigen; HPA: human platelet antigen; OS: overall survival; RFS: relapse free survival; PI: post-transfusion increment; PPR: percentage platelet recovery; CCI: corrected count increment; ICU: intensive care unit; AA: aplastic anemia; MDS: myelodysplastic syndrome; AML: acute myeloid leukemia; ALL: acute lymphocytic leukemia; CML: chronic myeloid leukemia; CMML: chronic myelomonocytic leukemia; MPN: myeloproliferative neoplasm; SI: splenic irradiation; Abs: antibodies; CR: complete remission; DAC: decitabine; GVHD: graft-versus-host disease; BM: bone marrow; PB: peripheral blood [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cu/Cu 2 O with controllable ratios were prepared via thermal decomposition of copper nitrate on hydrothermal carbon (HTC) for effective electrocatalytic nitrate reduction to ammonia. [Display omitted] • A series of Cu/Cu 2 O with different ratios were prepared on hydrothermal carbon. • The effect of the ratio of Cu/Cu 2 O on NRA was investigated. • Low energetic barrier for supplying electrons promotes nitrate electroreduction. Considering the background of low carbon emission and environmental protection, the development of electrocatalysts for efficient nitrate reduction to ammonia (NRA) has recently attracted increasing attention. Cu/Cu 2 O has been widely adopted as an efficient catalyst for the NRA reaction. However, the preparation of Cu/Cu 2 O with controllable ratios remains a challenge. Herein, a series of Cu/Cu 2 O were prepared through thermal decomposition of copper nitrate on the surface of hydrothermal carbon (HTC) under different temperatures. The ratios of Cu to Cu 2 O gradually increased with increasing calcination temperature. The effect of the Cu/Cu 2 O ratio on the NRA activity was investigated. The Cu/Cu 2 O/HTC-350 catalyst achieved the optimum NRA performance (Faradaic efficiency: 89.5%, ammonia selectivity: 81.7%). Further research demonstrated that the low energetic barrier for supplying electrons from the catalyst surface to the adsorbed reactant and the fastest electron transfer rate were beneficial for the nitrate electroreduction to ammonia. The electrochemical quasi in situ electron spin resonance (ESR) experiments proved the positive effect of active hydrogen (*H) during NRA process. This study provides a new avenue for the preparation of efficient Cu/Cu 2 O with controllable ratio catalysts for NRA reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Ag@AgPd x nanotriangulars were obtained by immobilizing Pd atoms onto Ag nanotriangulars. • Ag@AgPd 0.8 nanotriangulars has a regular triangular shape. • Ag@AgPd 0.8 shown the highest performance in H 2 production with 1980 mmol·g−1·h−1. • The mechanism of FA dehydrogenation has been confirmed by in-situ DRIFT analysis. Hydrogen with advantages of high energy density, zero pollution and zero carbon dioxide emissions is regarded as a carrier of clean energy for replacing fossil fuels. Therefore, the development of a high activity, selectivity and stability catalyst for H 2 production remains a great challenge. Herein, we report a new Ag@AgPd x nanotriangulars catalysts via immobilizing Pd atoms onto the surface of Ag nanotriangulars, for H 2 production from formic acid (FA) at room temperature, with superior catalytic activity and stability over commercial Pd/C and Pt/C. The in-situ DRIFT results shown the FA dehydrogenation process over Ag@AgPd 0.8 nanotriangulars, first the HCOOH* was rapidly converted to HCOO*, and finally to CO 2 *, which explained the fact that Ag@AgPd 0.8 nanotriangulars have high activity and selectivity for FA dehydrogenation. This strategy opens up a new way to design effective catalysts for efficient H 2 production from FA dehydrogenation to meet the requirement and applications of fuel cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: IgA nephropathy (IgAN) and IgA vasculitis with nephritis (IgAV-N) are related diseases. Galactose-deficient IgA1 (Gd-IgA1) plays an important role in the pathology of IgAV-N and IgAN, so we aim to compare the serum levels of Gd-IgA1 in Chinese pediatric patients with IgAN, IgAV-N, and IgAV. Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 52 patients with IgAN, 57 patients with IgAV-N, 26 patients with IgAV, and 40 healthy children. The serum levels of Gd-IgA1 were measured at the time of biopsy using a lectin-based ELISA method. Results: Gd-IgA1 levels in IgAV-N patients and IgAN patients were higher than in healthy controls (303.94 ± 39.37 U/ml, 314.91 ± 47.79 U/ml vs. 273.57 ± 48.29 U/ml, P < 0.001), and Gd-IgA1 levels in IgAV-N patients were higher than in IgAV patients (303.94 ± 39/ml vs. 286. 21 ± 38.81 U/ml, P = 0.059), but the latter result is not statistically significant. The Gd-IgA1 levels in IgAV patients were comparable with those in healthy controls (286.21 ± 38.81 U/ml vs. 273.57 ± 48.29 U/ml, P = 0.267). Among the four groups, we did not observe significant correlations of Gd-IgA1 levels with eGFR, proteinuria, or the MEST-C score. Conclusion: Serum Gd-IgA1 maybe involved in the pathogenesis of the IgAV-N and IgAN. However, we found no statistically significant correlation between Gd-IgA1 levels and clinical and pathological features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At the end of 2019, a novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV or COVID-19) infection broke out in Wuhan and then rapidly swept over China. It was the third instance of a coronavirus epidemic in the last two decades, preceded by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) in 2003 and the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in 2012. In conclusion, our present study found that the estimated proportion of patients with thrombocytopenia and infected with SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV or 2019-nCoV was 0-30 (95% CI 0-24-0-37). Patient characteristics infected with Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus infection in a tertiary hospital. [Extracted from the article]

Background and objective: Calcaneal Sanders type II or III fractures are highly disabling with significant burden. Surgical treatment modalities include open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) techniques and a variety of minimally invasive surgical (MIS) approaches. ORIF techniques are associated with complications and traditional MIS techniques need extensive intraoperative fluoroscopic procedures. The present study aims to investigate the effects of three different minimally invasive internal fixation (MIIF) techniques used to treat Sanders type II intra-articular calcaneal fractures using finite element analyses. Methods: A 64-row spiral computed tomography scan was used to observe the calcaneus of a healthy adult. The scanning data were imported into Mimics in a DICOM format. Using a new model of a Sanders type II-B intra-articular calcaneal fracture, three minimally invasive techniques were simulated. Technique A involved fixation using an isolated minimally invasive locking plate; Technique B used a minimally invasive locking plate with one medial support screw; and Technique C simulated a screw fixation technique using four 4.0-mm screws. After simulating a 640-N load on the subtalar facet, the maximum displacement and von Mises stress of fragments and implants were recorded to evaluate the biomechanical stability of different fixation techniques using finite element analyses. Results: After stress loading, the maximum displacements of the fragments and implants were located at the sustentaculum tali and the tip of sustentaculum tali screw, respectively, in the three techniques; however, among the three techniques, Technique B had better results for displacement of both. The maximum von Mises stress on the fragments was < 56 Mpa, and stress on the implants using the three techniques was less than the yield strength, with Technique C having the least stress. Conclusion: All three techniques were successful in providing a stable fixation for Sanders type II intra-articular calcaneal fractures, while the minimally invasive calcaneal locking plate with medial support screw fixation approach exhibited greater stability, leading to improved enhancement for the facet fragment; however, screw fixation dispersed the stress more effectively than the other two techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objective: Calcaneal Sanders type II or III fractures are highly disabling with significant burden. Surgical treatment modalities include open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) techniques and a variety of minimally invasive surgical (MIS) approaches. ORIF techniques are associated with complications and traditional MIS techniques need extensive intraoperative fluoroscopic procedures. The present study aims to investigate the effects of three different minimally invasive internal fixation (MIIF) techniques used to treat Sanders type II intra-articular calcaneal fractures using finite element analyses. Methods: A 64-row spiral computed tomography scan was used to observe the calcaneus of a healthy adult. The scanning data were imported into Mimics in a DICOM format. Using a new model of a Sanders type II-B intra-articular calcaneal fracture, three minimally invasive techniques were simulated. Technique A involved fixation using an isolated minimally invasive locking plate; Technique B used a minimally invasive locking plate with one medial support screw; and Technique C simulated a screw fixation technique using four 4.0-mm screws. After simulating a 640-N load on the subtalar facet, the maximum displacement and von Mises stress of fragments and implants were recorded to evaluate the biomechanical stability of different fixation techniques using finite element analyses. Results: After stress loading, the maximum displacements of the fragments and implants were located at the sustentaculum tali and the tip of sustentaculum tali screw, respectively, in the three techniques; however, among the three techniques, Technique B had better results for displacement of both. The maximum von Mises stress on the fragments was < 56 Mpa, and stress on the implants using the three techniques was less than the yield strength, with Technique C having the least stress. Conclusion: All three techniques were successful in providing a stable fixation for Sanders type II intra-articular calcaneal fractures, while the minimally invasive calcaneal locking plate with medial support screw fixation approach exhibited greater stability, leading to improved enhancement for the facet fragment; however, screw fixation dispersed the stress more effectively than the other two techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The preparation and properties of polypropylene fiber (PPF) reinforced lead zirconate titanate (PZT) flexible materials were investigated in this paper. PPF reinforced PZT composites were prepared by hot pressing. The microstructure, mechanical and electrical properties of PPF reinforced PZT composited were tested by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) technology, Universal tester, d33 quasi-static tester and LCR tester and were systematically characterized. The results showed that with the increase of PPF volume fraction, the reticular structures in the composites increase, and the bending strength σc and tensile strength σb of the composites increase; meanwhile, the relative dielectric constant εr and dielectric loss tanδ of the composites decreased gradually, but the piezoelectric strain constant d33 of the composite increases first and then decreases with the increase of PPF volume fraction. When the PPF volume fraction is 50%, the composite has superior mechanical properties and comprehensive electrical properties, and is relatively in mechanical electrical equilibrium with σc is 25.402 MPa, σb is 7.049 MPa, εr is 77.216 and d33 is 15 pC N−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Functionalized graphene/SiC nanowires hybrid skeletons were constructed. • Incorporating skeletons significantly improved the thermal conductivity of epoxy. • Functionalized hybrid skeleton revealed an enhanced synergistic reinforcing effect. Functionalized graphene nanoplatelets/SiC nanowires (f-GnP/SiCnw) and unmodified (u-GnP/SiCnw) hybrid skeletons with different amounts of SiCnw were successfully constructed through a vacuum-assisted self-assembly technique. Subsequently, the hybrid skeletons were incorporated into an epoxy resin to fabricate nanocomposites with excellent thermal and thermomechanical properties. The study revealed that the f-GnP/SiCnw hybrid skeletons exhibit a more pronounced reinforcing effect than the f-GnP-only skeleton without SiCnw and the unmodified (u-GnP/SiCnw) counterparts at the same filler loading. Incorporating the f-GnP/SiCnw hybrid skeleton with 5 wt% SiCnw resulted in through-plane and in-plane thermal conductivity of the epoxy composites as high as 1.58 W/m·K and 6.20 W/m·K, which is 690 and 3000% higher than that of the neat epoxy, respectively. Meanwhile, the storage modulus and glass transition temperature of the epoxy composites were also evidently enhanced after the introduction of the hybrid skeletons. This work provides an insight into the fabrication of high-performance thermally conductive composites. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A reliable UMAT subroutine of selected constitutive model of asphalt mixture is developed and applied to characterize the three-stage rutting behavior of asphalt pavement by using ABAQUS. It is indicated that the heavier traffic load not only induces the greater rutting depth, but also accelerates the rutting rate, causing the pavement earlier enter into rutting failure with shortened service life. The damage evolution and axle-load conversion are further discussed. Results show that the pavement subjected to heavier axle loads has the greater damage and faster damage evolution. The axle-load conversion index is 5.97 according to rut equivalence principle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A facile and lyophilization-free method to fabricate anisotropic cellulose aerogels. • Directional stabilization of cellulose nanofibrils induced by electrostatic complexation. • Ambient-dried cellulose aerogels have porous structure and aligned channels. • NCA@PPy achieves excellent photothermal property and efficient solar evaporation. Anisotropic aerogels, mimicking natural porous materials such as wood and bone, always exhibit distinctive properties due to their aligned channels, which, however, generally require complicated ice templating configuration and costly freeze-drying. In this work, we develop a novel, facile, low-cost, and scalable method combining directional stabilization and ambient drying to prepare anisotropic aerogels. The frozen aqueous TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibrils (TOCNFs) monolith embedded in a mold is directly immersed in ethanol/Fe3+ bath. The ice crystals directionally dissolve in ethanol, and simultaneously the TOCNFs are directionally stabilized due to the electrostatic complexation between their carboxyl groups and Fe3+ ions. The obtained anisotropic nanocellulose aerogel (NCA) after ambient drying exhibits an ordered porous structure, which is tunable by adjusting the contents of carboxyl groups on TOCNFs. The NCAs reveal distinct anisotropy, excellent mechanical compressibility in the radial direction, and high water-stability. To demonstrate their promising potentials for application in various advanced fields such as solar steam generation, the NCA is coated with polypyrrole (PPy) by in-situ polymerization to achieve excellent photothermal property but well maintain the original aligned channels of NCA, which endow the NCA@PPy with an efficient solar evaporation performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: DNA methylation is a form of epigenetic modification that regulates gene expression. However, there are limited data on the comprehensive analysis of DNA methylation regulated gene mutations (DMRGM) in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) mainly referring to DNA methyltransferase 3α (DNMT3A), isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1), isocitrate dehydrogenase 2 (IDH2), and Tet methylcytidine dioxygenase 2 (TET2). Results: A retrospective study of the clinical characteristics and gene mutations in 843 newly diagnosed non-M3 AML patients was conducted between January 2016 and August 2019. 29.7% (250/843) of patients presented with DMRGM. It was characterized by older age, higher white blood cell count, and higher platelet count (P < 0.05). DMRGM frequently coexisted with FLT3-ITD, NPM1, FLT3-TKD, and RUNX1 mutations (P < 0.05). The CR/CRi rate was only 60.3% in DMRGM patients, significantly lower than in non-DMRGM patients (71.0%, P = 0.014). In addition to being associated with poor overall survival (OS), DMRGM was also an independent risk factor for relapse-free survival (RFS) (HR: 1.467, 95% CI: 1.030–2.090, P = 0.034). Furthermore, OS worsened with an increasing burden of DMRGM. Patients with DMRGM may be benefit from hypomethylating drugs, and the unfavorable prognosis of DMRGM can be overcome by hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). For external validation, the BeatAML database was downloaded, and a significant association between DMRGM and OS was confirmed (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Our study provides an overview of DMRGM in AML patients, which was identified as a risk factor for poor prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: DNA methylation is a form of epigenetic modification that regulates gene expression. However, there are limited data on the comprehensive analysis of DNA methylation regulated gene mutations (DMRGM) in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) mainly referring to DNA methyltransferase 3α (DNMT3A), isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1), isocitrate dehydrogenase 2 (IDH2), and Tet methylcytidine dioxygenase 2 (TET2). Results: A retrospective study of the clinical characteristics and gene mutations in 843 newly diagnosed non-M3 AML patients was conducted between January 2016 and August 2019. 29.7% (250/843) of patients presented with DMRGM. It was characterized by older age, higher white blood cell count, and higher platelet count (P < 0.05). DMRGM frequently coexisted with FLT3-ITD, NPM1, FLT3-TKD, and RUNX1 mutations (P < 0.05). The CR/CRi rate was only 60.3% in DMRGM patients, significantly lower than in non-DMRGM patients (71.0%, P = 0.014). In addition to being associated with poor overall survival (OS), DMRGM was also an independent risk factor for relapse-free survival (RFS) (HR: 1.467, 95% CI: 1.030–2.090, P = 0.034). Furthermore, OS worsened with an increasing burden of DMRGM. Patients with DMRGM may be benefit from hypomethylating drugs, and the unfavorable prognosis of DMRGM can be overcome by hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). For external validation, the BeatAML database was downloaded, and a significant association between DMRGM and OS was confirmed (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Our study provides an overview of DMRGM in AML patients, which was identified as a risk factor for poor prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation-associated thrombotic microangiopathy (TA-TMA) is a fatal post-transplant complication. It has a high mortality rate and worse prognosis, but treatment strategies remain controversial. We screened 6 out of 3453 studies on the treatment of TA-TMA. These investigations compared 5 treatment strategies with a network meta-analysis approach. The final outcome was the proportion of patients who responded to these therapies. There were significant differences in response rates for each treatment. Achieving analysis through direct and indirect evidence in the rank probabilities shows that rTM (recombinant human soluble thrombomodulin) is most likely to be rank 1 (64.98%), Eculizumab intervention rank 2 (48.66%), ISM (immunosuppression manipulation) rank 3 (32.24%), TPE (therapeutic plasma exchange) intervention rank 4 (69.56%), and supportive care intervention rank 5 (70.20%). Eculizumab and ISM have significantly higher efficacy than supportive care (odds ratio (OR): 18.04, 18.21 respectively); and TPE having lower efficacy than all other TA-TMA therapies exception to supportive care. In our study, rTM and Eculizumab may be the best choice when treating TA-TMA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial cellulose (BC) hydrogel is renowned in the field of tissue engineering for its high biocompatibility, excellent mechanical strength, and eco-friendliness. Herein, we present a biomimetic mineralization method for preparing BC/hydroxyapatite (HAP) composite hydrogel scaffolds with different mineralization time and ion concentration of the mineralized solution. Spherical HAP reinforcement enhanced bone mineralization, thereby imparting increased bioactivity to BC matrix materials. Subsequently, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) was introduced into the scaffold. The PRP-loaded hydrogel enhanced the release of growth factors, which promoted cell adhesion, growth, and bone healing. After 3 weeks of MC3T3-E1 cell-induced osteogenesis, PRP positively affected cell differentiation in BC/HAP@PRP scaffolds. Overall, these scaffolds exhibited excellent biocompatibility, mineralized nodule formation, and controlled release in vitro , demonstrating great potential for application in bone tissue repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Curcumin has excellent antioxidant and antibacterial properties. The poor solubility and easy degradation limit its application. The present investigation was aimed to prepare curcumin nanoemulsions (Cur‐Ne), employing homogeneous and ultrasonication for the encapsulation of curcumin to overcome these problems. Cur‐Ne stabilised using whey protein isolate and rhamnose conjugate (Wpi‐Rha) was prepared by Maillard reaction. Furthermore, the processing (i.e. ionic strength, heat and freeze‐thaw) and storage stability of Cur‐Ne were evaluated. Moreover, the bactericidal capacity of Cur‐Ne combined with photodynamic therapy (PDT) technology was estimated. Cur‐Ne was prepared successfully with the droplet size of 185.97 ± 6.65 nm, polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.21 ± 0.01, zeta potential of −35.17 ± 0.15mV and entrapment efficiency of 97.0 ± 0.07%. Meanwhile, Cur‐Ne was stable at different storage and processing conditions. In addition, the DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging rates of Cur‐Ne were 84.86 ± 0.24% and 99.63 ± 0.48%, respectively. At the adding amount of 5 μL of Cur‐Ne, the Cur‐Ne could deactivate the Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus with the antibacterial rate of 99.05 ± 0.13% and 99.11 ± 0.18%, respectively. Curcumin loaded in nanoemulsion and combined with PDT provide new ideas for food storage and sterilisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The porous PdPtNi nanosheets with adjustable compositions were designed. • The PdPtNi nanosheets have ultrathin thickness, abundant step atoms and optimized electronic structure. • The Pd 45 Pt 42 Ni 13 /C exhibits the excellent mass and specific activities of 16.2 A mg PGM −1 and 12.7 mA cm−2, respectively. • The porous PdPtNi nanosheets can serve as high-efficiency electrocatalysts towards EOR and AORs. The development of ultrathin porous nanostructures contributes a new opportunity to optimize the activity and stability of electrocatalysts, especially for those complicated alcohol oxidation reactions (AORs). Herein, a series of porous PdPtNi nanosheets with adjustable compositions were designed and synthesized to achieve highly active and stable electrocatalysis towards methanol and ethanol oxidation reactions (MOR and EOR) in alkaline electrolyte containing the corresponding alcohol molecules. Benefited from the ultrathin structures, abundant step atoms and optimized electronic structures, the optimized Pd 45 Pt 42 Ni 13 /C exhibits the mass and specific activities of 16.2 A mg PGM −1 and 12.7 mA cm−2, respectively, much higher than those of commercial Pt/C and PdPt-based catalysts. In addition, the Pd 45 Pt 42 Ni 13 /C also displays desirable stability with the highest retained current density after long-term durability tests. We also demonstrate that the porous PdPtNi nanosheets can serve as high-efficiency electrocatalysts towards EOR, confirming the versatility of improved electrocatalytic performance of AORs with multi-electron transfer. By maximizing the number of electrocatalytically active sites and enhancing the intrinsic catalytic activity of single sites, this work provides a class of high-performance Pt-based anodic catalyst for DAFCs via introducing porosity into ultrathin Pt- or Pd-based nanostructures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Chitin was investigated for the first time as dielectric film capacitors. • Chitin/BNNS composites were fabricated through dissolution/regeneration process. • The dielectric properties of composites were improved by the incorporation of BNNS. • The composites also showed enhanced mechanical properties and thermal stability. Polymer-based film capacitors have attracted considerable attention owing to their important applications in both electronics and electrical systems. However, ever-growing environmental challenges stimulate a great demand for exploring renewable dielectric materials. Herein, flexible film dielectrics based on regenerated chitin and boron nitride nanosheets (BNNSs) were fabricated, for the first time, through a straightforward low-temperature dissolution/regeneration process, in which a "green" KOH/urea aqueous system was chosen as both the solvent of chitin and the exfoliation agent of BNNSs. Benefit from the excellent intrinsic properties of embedded BNNS, substantially elevated dielectric performances were achieved, including much suppressed dielectric loss along with significantly enhanced breakdown strength. Particularly, an ultrahigh charge-discharge efficiency of above 90% could be well-maintained in composites with only 6 wt% BN loading, even the applied electric field up to 400 MV m−1, therefore resulting in a marvelous discharge energy density of 8.67 J cm−3. Furthermore, aside targeted excellent dielectric properties, the resultant composites also possessed improved mechanical and thermal properties. This strategy developed here not only broadens the application of chitin, but also opens a new window for the establishment of next-generation environment-friendly dielectrics with superb dielectric properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brain ischemia, including cerebral ischemia and cerebrovascular ischemia, leads to poor oxygen supply or cerebral hypoxia, and causes brain tissue death or cerebral infarction/ischemic stroke. The troxerutin and cerebroprotein hydrolysate injection (TCHI), is widely applied in China to improve blood supply in ischemic brain tissues and to enhance neuroprotective effects in clinical practice. However, the benefits and detailed underlying mechanism elaborating the effectiveness of TCHI in cerebrovascular diseases require further investigation. Therefore, in the present study, experimental in vivo and in vitro models were employed to investigate the potential mechanisms of TCHI on cerebral ischemic injury. The results demonstrated that TCHI increased the lactate dehydrogenase levels in the brain homogenate and conversely decreased lactic acid levels. TCHI was further observed to significantly increase superoxide dismutase activity and decrease malondialdehyde levels in ischemic brain tissues. In addition, TCHI significantly induced vascular maturation processes, including proliferation, adhesion, migration and tube formation in cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Additionally, TCHI significantly stimulated microvessel formation in the rat aortic ring and chick chorioallantoic membrane assays. Taken together, these results provided strong evidence that TCHI stimulated angiogenesis at multiple steps, and indicated that TCHI attenuated cerebral ischemic damage through the amelioration of oxidative stress and promotion of angiogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents information on a study which examined the relation between the amplitude of photoacoustic signals and the sample thickness when the sample wafer is perpendicular to the piezoelectric ceramics. Piezoelectric theory for perpendicular attachment; Experimental results; Conclusions.

The damage or degeneration of spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) can impair the auditory signals transduction from hair cells to the central auditory system, and cause significant hearing loss. Herein, a new form of bioactive hydrogel incorporating topological graphene oxide (GO) and TEMPO-oxidized bacterial cellulose (GO/TOBC hydrogel) was developed to provide a favorable microenvironment for SGN neurite outgrowth. As the network structure of lamellar interspersed fiber cross-linked by GO/TOBC hydrogels well simulated the structure and morphology of ECM, with the controllable hydrophilic property and appropriate Young's modulus well met those requirements of SGNs microenvironment, the GO/TOBC hybrid matrix exhibited great potential to promote the growth of SGNs. The quantitative real-time PCR result confirmed that the GO/TOBC hydrogel can significantly accelerate the development of growth cones and filopodia, by increasing the mRNA expression levels of diap3 , fscn2 , and integrin β1. These results suggest that GO/TOBC hydrogel scaffolds have the potential to be used to construct biomimetic nerve grafts for repairing or replacing nerve defects. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]