Search

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA), a degenerative disease with a high global prevalence, is characterized by the degradation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and the apoptosis of chondrocytes. Ajugol, a extract derived from the herb Rehmannia glutinosa, has not yet been investigated for its potential in modulating the development of OA. Methods: We employed techniques such as western blotting, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, X-ray imaging, HE staining, and SO staining to provide biological evidence supporting the role of Ajugol as a potential therapeutic agent for modulating OA. Furthermore, in an in vivo experiment, intra-peritoneal injection of 50 mg/kg Ajugol effectively mitigated the progression of OA following destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM) surgery. Results: Our findings revealed that treatment with 50 μM Ajugol activated TFEB-mediated autophagy, alleviating ER stress-induced chondrocyte apoptosis and ECM degradation caused by TBHP. Furthermore, in an in vivo experiment, intra-peritoneal injection of 50 mg/kg Ajugol effectively mitigated the progression of OA following destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM) surgery. Conclusion: These results provide compelling biological evidence supporting the role of Ajugol as a potential therapeutic agent for modulating OA by activating autophagy and attenuating ER stress-induced cell death and ECM degradation. The promising in vivo results further suggest the potential of Ajugol as a treatment strategy for OA progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of catalpol on lung cancer cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and oxidative stress via the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway are investigated in this work. Catalpol-12 g/mL group, catalpol-24 g/mL group, catalpol-48 g/mL group, catalpol − 48 g / mL + vector group , catalpol − 48 g / mL + Nrf 2 group , si-NC group, and si-Nrf2 group were used to split lung cancer cells A549 into control groups. Proliferation was detected using the CCK-8 assay; apoptosis was detected using flow cytometry; migration was detected using the transwell chamber; ROS was distinguished using the DCFHDA method; MDA, SOD, and GSH were detected using the microvolume method; and Cleaved Caspase-3, Cleaved Caspase-9, Nrf2, HO-1, MMP-9, and MMP-2 were detected using the Western blot method. Catalpol 12 g/mL and 24 g/mL-48 g/mL treatment decreased the proliferation activity, migration number, and Nrf2, HO-1, MMP-9, and MMP-2 protein levels of lung cancer cells when compared to the control group. SOD and GSH levels of lung cancer cells were decreased, and MDA and ROS levels were increased. Cleaved caspase-3, cleaved caspase-9 protein expression levels, and apoptosis were boosted (P < 0.05). The proliferation activity, migration number, and protein levels of Nrf2, HO-1, MMP-9, and MMP-2 in the catalpol − 48 g / mL + Nrf 2 group were raised compared to the catalpol − 48 g / mL + vector group , whereas there was an apparent drop in the Cleaved Caspase-3, Cleaved Caspase-9, and apoptosis rate. Similarly, SOD and GSH contents increased, whereas MDA and ROS decreased (P < 0.05). The proliferation activity, migration number, and Nrf2, HO-1, MMP-9, and MMP-2 protein levels of lung cancer cells in the si-Nrf2 group were all decreased when compared to the si-NC and control groups. Cleaved Caspase-3 and Cleaved Caspase-9 protein expression, on the other hand, increased as MDA and ROS levels were raised while SOD and GSH levels dropped (P < 0.05). It reveals that catalpol inhibits the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway, which causes antiproliferation, migration, apoptosis, and oxidative stress in cancer cells of lungs. The rate of apoptosis was also lowered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trichomes are potentially important for absorption of foliar fertilizers. A study has shown that the non-glandular trichromes (NGTs) of sunflower (Helianthus annuus) accumulated high concentrations of foliar-applied zinc (Zn); however, the mechanisms of Zn accumulation in the NGTs and the fate of this Zn are unclear. Here we investigated how foliar-applied Zn accumulates in the NGTs and the subsequent translocation of this Zn. Time-resolved synchrotron-based X-ray fluorescence microscopy and transcriptional analyses were used to probe the movement of Zn in the NGTs, with the cuticle composition of the NGTs examined using confocal Raman microscopy. The accumulation of Zn in the NGTs is both an initial preferential absorption process and a subsequent translocation process. This preferred absorption is likely because the NGT base has a higher hydrophilicity, whilst the subsequent translocation is due to the presence of plasmodesmata, Zn-chelating ligands, and Zn transporters in the NGTs. Furthermore, the Zn sequestered in the NGTs was eventually translocated out of the trichome once the leaf Zn concentration had decreased, suggesting that the NGTs are also important in maintaining leaf Zn homeostasis. This study demonstrates for the first time that trichomes have a key structural and functional role in the absorption and translocation of foliar-applied Zn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Persisting asymmetry of motor symptoms are characteristic of Parkinson's disease (PD). We investigated the possible lateralized effects on regional cerebral blood flow (CBF), CBF‐connectivity, and laterality index (LI) among PD subtypes using arterial spin labeling (ASL). Forty‐four left‐sided symptom dominance patients (PDL), forty‐eight right‐sided symptom dominance patients (PDR), and forty‐five matched HCs were included. Group comparisons were performed for the regional normalized CBF, CBF‐connectivity and LI of basal ganglia (BA) subregions. The PDL patients had lower CBF in right calcarine sulcus and right supramarginal gyrus compared to the PDR and the HC subjects. Regional perfusion alterations seemed more extensive in the PDL than in the PDR group. In the PDL, correlations were identified between right thalamus and motor severity, between right fusiform gyrus and global cognitive performance. None of correlations survived after multiple comparisons correction. The significantly altered CBF‐connectivity among the three groups included: unilateral putamen, unilateral globus pallidus, and right thalamus. LI score in the putamen was significantly different among groups. Motor‐symptom laterality in PD may exhibit asymmetric regional and interregional abnormalities of CBF properties, particularly in PDL patients. This preliminary study underlines the necessity of classifying PD subgroups based on asymmetric motor symptoms and the potential application of CBF properties underlying neuropathology in PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The intestinal epithelial barrier, which works as the first line of defense between the luminal environment and the host, once destroyed, it will cause serious inflammation or other intestinal diseases. Tight junctions (TJs) play a vital role to maintain the integrity of the epithelial barrier. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), one of the most important inflammatory factors will downregulate specific TJ proteins including Occludin and Claudin-1 and impair integrity of the epithelial barrier. Betaine has excellent anti-inflammatory activity but whether betaine has any effect on TJ proteins, particularly on LPS-induced dysfunction of epithelial barriers remains unknown. The purpose of this study is to explore the pharmacological effect of betaine on improving intestinal barrier function represented by TJ proteins. Intestinal porcine epithelial cells (IPEC-J2) were used as an in vitro model. Results: The results demonstrated that betaine enhanced the expression of TJ proteins while LPS (1 μg/mL) downregulates the expression of these proteins. Furthermore, betaine attenuates LPS-induced decreases of TJ proteins both shown by Western blot (WB) and Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The immunofluorescent images consistently revealed that LPS induced the disruption of TJ protein Claudin-1 and reduced its expression while betaine could reverse these alterations. Similar protective role of betaine on intestinal barrier function was observed by transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) approach. Conclusion: In conclusion, our research demonstrated that betaine attenuated LPS-induced downregulation of Occludin and Claudin-1 and restored the intestinal barrier function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aging is a key risk factor in cognitive diseases. Recently, metal exposures were found associated with both biological aging and cognitive function. Here, we aim to evaluate the associations of blood metals with cognitive function and the mediated effect of biological aging. Fourteen metals were detected and biological age was calculated through Klemera and Doubal method among 514 adults in Beijing, China. The generalized linear models indicated that the copper (Cu), molybdenum (Mo), and strontium (Sr) were positively associated with biological aging [β Cu (95% CI): 12.76 (9.26, 16.27); β Mo (95% CI): 1.50 (0.15, 2.85)], and β Sr (95% CI): 1.86 (0.68, 3.03)], while vanadium (V) was inversely related to biological aging [β V (95% CI): −0.76 (−1.48, −0.05)]. Subsequently, Cu, lead (Pb), selenium (Se), and biological aging were associated with cognitive function and further mediation analyses confirmed that biological aging partially mediated (33.98%, P = 0.019) the association of Cu and cognitive function. Additionally, we constructed a lifestyle index that implied the modifiable healthy lifestyle could slow aging to attenuate the detrimental effect of metals on cognition. Our findings provide insights into the potential pathways linking multiple metals exposure to aging and cognition and underscore the importance of adopting healthy lifestyles. [Display omitted] • Cu, Mo, and Sr were positively associated with accelerated aging. • Cu, Pb, Se, and biological aging were associated with cognitive function. • Biological aging partially mediated the association of Cu and cognitive function. • Adopting a healthy lifestyle helps slow down biological aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel PCVT is applied to the construction vehicle to improve transmission efficiency. • A double forgetting factors least squares method is designed for identifying change of working conditions. • The adaptive shift strategies based on different working conditions are established. • Simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of proposed transmission system and its shift strategies. A new power-cycling variable transmission (PCVT) is proposed and applied to construction vehicles to improve transmission efficiency. To adapt to changes in external loads, construction vehicles need to shift gears continuously. However, the shift points obtained by traditional method cannot change with working conditions. This study aims to identify construction vehicles' mass and gradient changes, and to develop a shift correction strategy. The double-forgetting factors least squares method is designed to identify slope gradient and load. A PCVT dynamic shift strategy is developed based on speed ratio adjustment characteristics. Next, a modified shift strategy under different loading mass and slope gradient conditions is proposed based on the construction vehicles' mass change ratio, the gradient change ratio and balanced velocity. Simulation results show the proposed method can correct shift points, improve operation efficiency, avoid shift cycles and ensure a safer operation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acclimation activates an array physiological mechanisms and induce salt tolerance. Salt pre-treatment triggered ion exchangers located on plasmalema. Na+ sequestration primary in root tissues with little K+ leakage. Acclimation with 15 mM NaCl solution improved plant vigor under saline environment. Soil salinity is hampering the final output of crops by disturbing a set of physiological processes. The current study assessed; how did salt acclimation improve the salinity tolerance in field pea. Firstly, the 2-day old seedlings of pea (P. sativum) were grown in 105:15:117 ppm NPK solution for five days. Initially, two groups of seedlings were selected: acclimated (seedlings were exposed to 15 and 25 mM NaCl solution along with NPK solution for one week) and not acclimated. Further, the seedlings from both groups were grown in 4-kg plastic pots against moderate and severe salinity i.e. salinity levels of 6 and 9 dS m−1 for moderate and severe salt stress, respectively. Part of plants originated from the not acclimated group was kept in pots without salt stress as referent control. Different physiological kinetics were studied from control, acclimated and non-acclimated plants. Results show no detrimental effects of the salt acclimation on plant growth. Therefore, 15 mM NaCl acclimation and control treatments produced the plants with similar above-ground biomass. Further, acclimation triggered the accumulation of Na+ ions and prevention of K+ ions leakage primary from the root tissues, leading to higher photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (Gs) and chlorophyll contents. Subsequently, the acclimated plants either by 15 mM or 25 mM mediated relatively higher K+ ions in roots along with low sequestration of Na+ ions under moderate and severe salinity, suggesting that short-term exposure to salinity activates an array of physiological kinetics which enabling the plants to withstand severe salinity conditions. In conclusion, Acclimation with 15 mM NaCl solution was most effective to stimulate K+ sequestration in both leaves and roots, leading to i) higher photosynthetic rate and stomatal conductance, ii) more Chl a and total chlorophyll scores, and iii) high relative water contents and more dry biomass accumulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microchannel heat exchangers (MHXs), develop thin boundary layers owing to interruptive surfaces that break up and reform the boundary layers. However, once frosting occurs, the operation of the MHX is seriously affected. In order to clarify the growth and distribution of frost layer at the surface of the MHX, a three-dimensional frosting growth model of microchannel louvered fins is established and verified using the OpenFOAM software platform and self-programming method. The influences of boundary conditions, such as moist air inlet velocity, humidity ratio, and cold-wall surface temperature on the thickness of the local frost layer, pressure drop, and outlet temperature of the microchannel louvered fins are explored. For the fin in the middle of rear half, the lower cold-wall temperature (−12 °C compared with −8 °C) reduces the frost-clogging-channel time from 240 s to 160 s, while the higher humidity ratio (4 g kg−1 compared with 3.4 g kg−1) decreases the clogging time from 280 s to 200 s. Moreover, the high moist air inlet velocity (2.5 m s−1 compared with 1 m s−1) increases the pressure drop at 480 s from 276 Pa to 1011 Pa. This study provides guidance for predicting the local frosting of MHXs under moist conditions. • Established 3D frosting growth model of microchannel louvered fin based on OpenFOAM. • Unveiled local-frost growth and spatial distribution of microchannel louvered fin. • Moist-air inlet velocity and humidity ratio influences frost spatial distribution. • Cold-wall temperature mainly affects local frost layer thickness at fin surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dementia is a significant cause of elderly disability and Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent form of dementia. As an early stage of AD, the mechanism related to mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and heavy metals is still unclear. This study utilized a cross-sectional design and enrolled 514 older adults in Bejing, China. Cognitive function was assessed by the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and fourteen blood metals were measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). In the adjusted single-metal models, we observed that copper [Cu, β (95% CI): 3.73 (−6.42, −1.03)] and lead [Pb, β (95% CI): 0.79 (−1.26, −0.32)] demonstrated negative associations with cognitive function, while selenium [Se, β (95% CI): 2.97 (1.23, 4.70)] was beneficial to cognition. Our findings were robust in secondary analysis using multi-metal models, which included generalized linear models (GLM), Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR), and quantile g-computation (qgcomp). Moreover, the toxic metal mixture (Cu and Pb) exhibited a significant negative association with MMSE scores and the inclusion of Se in the metal mixture attenuated the neurotoxicity of Cu–Pb mixture. The in silico analysis was used to examine the potential molecular mechanisms (genes, biological processes, pathways, and illnesses) of interaction among metal mixtures. We identified 20 cognition-related genes that are associated with both Cu–Pb and Se. Among these genes, eight (APOE, APP, BAX, BDNF, CASP3, HMOX1, TF, and TPP1) exhibited opposite effects on protein activity, mRNA expression, or protein expression in response to Se and Cu/Pb exposure, which could be the key genes accounting for the anti-neurotoxic effects of Se. Our findings support that Se can attenuate the neurotoxicity of exposure to single Cu or Pb, and Cu–Pb mixture. More research is needed to confirm our findings and gain knowledge about the molecular mechanisms of combined metal exposure on cognitive function. [Display omitted] • Innovative integration of epidemiology and bioinformatics methods. • Blood metals impact cognition: Cu and Pb negatively, Se positively. • Se attenuates the neurotoxicity of Cu–Pb mixture. • 8 key cognition-related genes identified in Cu–Pb–Se interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a case of 50-year-old man with a severe acute ischemic stroke followed by intracerebral hemorrhage and brain abscess due to systemic infection. His initial intracranial radiographic findings were normal but three days later MRI scan of the brain revealed well-defined rounded cystic lesion on the T2-weighted and T1-weighted images in the right basal ganglia; the lesion presented an area of diffusion restriction on DWI; lately the lesion was confirmed to be an early stage of cerebral abscess. A week later the patient was noted to have worsening neurological status and left extremity weakness, and emergency brain CT scan revealed massive intracerebral hemorrhage in the right occipital lobe; he underwent intracranial hematoma evacuation surgery. The hematoma was removed successfully, and the systemic infections were treated with antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A method of lowering oil emulsion and metal corrosion risks for water injection is proposed. • A heated water injection system above 200℃ is designed. • Effects of heated water injection on combustion and emissions are studied experimentally. • An optimum strategy of heated water injection for combustion control is established. Water injection technique is a promising solution for accurate combustion control, but oil emulsion obstacle its commercial application. The present study proposes a practical approach for optimizing water spray atomization and evaporation, in which water is heated through exhaust gas recovery and directly injected into combustion chamber with a flash boiling. Firstly, a heated water injection (HWI) system was designed and established. Then, experiments were conducted to explore the effects of HWI parameters on engine combustion and emissions characteristics in terms of water injection strategies. The results present that HWI increase water evaporation rate and improves combustion efficiency. The HWI lowers flame propagation speed and improves specific heat ratio of air–fuel mixture. Elevated injection temperature lowers duration of flame kernel formation, which shortens ignition delay prolonged under conventional water injection. CA10 is advanced 4.5°CA under same spark advance while compared to conventional water injection. Moreover, HWI can not only reduce production of NO X and CO emissions but also effectively lower HC emissions by 26.2%, as water injection temperature increased to 205℃. However, excessive water injection mass and inappropriate water injection timing may worsen ignition and flame propagation, increasing unburned loss and misfire probability. The present results provide considerable evidence for the application of HWI within modern gasoline engines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Population pharmacokinetic and exposure-response models for azilsartan medoxomil (AZL-M) and chlorthalidone (CLD) were developed using data from an 8-week placebo-controlled phase 3, factorial study of 20, 40, and 80 mg AZL-M every day (QD) and 12.5 and 25 mg CLD QD in fixed-dose combination (FDC) in subjects with moderate to severe essential hypertension. A 2-compartment model with first-order absorption and elimination was developed to describe pharmacokinetics. An Emax model for exposure-response analysis evaluated AZL-M/CLD effects on ambulatory systolic blood pressure (SBP). Estimated oral clearance and apparent volume of distribution (central compartment) were 1.47 L/h and 3.98 L for AZL, and 4.13 L/h and 62.1 L for CLD. Age as a covariate had the largest effect on AZL and CLD exposure (±20% change). Predicted maximal SBP responses (Emax) were -15.6 and -23.9 mm Hg for AZL and CLD. Subgroup analysis identified statistically significant Emax differences for black vs nonblack subjects, whereby the reduced AZL response in black subjects was offset by greater response to CLD. The estimated Emax for AZL and CLD was generally greater in subjects with higher baseline BP. In conclusion, no dose adjustments to AZL-M or CLD are warranted based on identified covariates, and antihypertensive efficacy of AZL-M/CLD combination therapy is comparable in black and nonblack subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Only few previous case reports have been found focusing on the imaging findings of adult Wilms' tumor (WT). Purpose: To characterize multislice computed tomography (MSCT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics, and follow-up results of adult WT. Material and Methods: Sixteen patients with WT were studied retrospectively. MSCT and MRI were undertaken to investigate the tumor characteristics. Results: Tumors (mean diameter, 13.1 ± 4.5 cm) exhibited an expansible appearance and disrupted the reniform contour (16/16), cystic components (16/16), curvilinear calcification (1/16), poorly marginated (2/16), hemorrhage (16/16), displacement of renal pelvis or calyx (13/16), and had lymph node or distal metastases (5/16). Attenuation of WT was less or equal compared to renal parenchyma on unenhanced CT (P > 0.05), while tumor enhancement after administration of a contrast agent was lower than that of normal renal parenchyma (P < 0.05). WT was isointense on T1-weighted (T1W) imaging, isointense or hypointense on T2-weighted (T2W) imaging. Tumor enhancement was less than normal renal cortex in all phases (P < 0.05). The number of tumor stages (grades I, II, III, and IV) was two, three, six, and five cases, respectively. Follow-up time was in the range of 19-123 months; six patients died within 3 years, six patients died within 5 years after the initial diagnosis, with the remaining patients still alive. Conclusion: Adult WT tends to be a large tumor, isointense or hypointense on T2W imaging with enhancement less than normal renal parenchyma in all phases. The long-term follow-up results demonstrated the poor prognosis of the tumor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Renal oncocytoma (RO) and chromophobe renal cell carcinoma (ChRCC) share histologic and some imaging features.Purpose: To investigate the multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) characteristics of these two tumor types.Material and Methods: Fifty-six patients with RO and 54 patients with ChRCC were studied retrospectively. MDCT was undertaken to investigate differences in tumor characteristics.Results: Calcifications were visible in 24 (42.8%) patients with RO and in 11 (20.4%) patients with ChRCC (P = 0.011). 26 patients with RO had stellate scars as did 14 patients with ChRCC (P = 0.025). Spoken-wheel-like enhancement was visible in 41 patients with RO and in 11 with ChRCC (P < 0.001). Thirty-nine (69.6%) patients with RO and nine (16.7%) patients with ChRCC showed segmental inversion (P < 0.001). Two patients with RO had retroperitoneal lymph node enlargement as did 13 patients with ChRCC (P = 0.002). Combined evaluation of stellate scar, spoken-wheel-like enhancement, and segmental enhancement inversion features were found to have a sensitivity of 99.1% (106 of 107), a specificity of 100% (3 of 3), a positive predictive value of 100% (106 of 106), and a negative predictive value of 75% (3 of 4). The attenuation of RO tumors was greater than that of ChRCC tumors, normal renal parenchyma on unenhanced CT (P = 0.031). Enhancement was higher with RO than with ChRCC tumors in all phases (P = 0.021, < 0.001, and 0.007, respectively).Conclusion: CT imaging features such as stellate scar, spoken-wheel-like enhancement, and segmental enhancement inversion were more common in RO and they may help in differentiating RO from ChRCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In-situ soil cadmium (Cd) immobilization helps to reduce Cd accumulation in rice grain, while its effects on bioaccessibility of Cd in rice during digestion and the associated health risk from rice consumption remain unclear. Here, we combined in-situ soil Cd immobilization and bioaccessibility-corrected health risk assessment (HRA) to minimize both the risk and uncertainty of Cd exposure from rice consumption. Wollastonite with or without four different phosphates (P) were applied to immobilize soil Cd at paddy fields, and their influences on Cd, essential elements, and amino acids in rice grain were analyzed. Moreover, a bioaccessibility-corrected HRA was conducted to accurately reflect the Cd exposure risk from ingesting these rices. The results showed the co-application of wollastonite and four different P reduced Cd concentrations in rice grain equally, while their impacts on bioaccessibility of Cd in rice during simulated human digestion were inconsistent (53–71%). The HRA based on bioaccessibility of Cd in rice revealed that Cd exposure risk from rice consumption was lowest with the application of wollastonite, followed by the co-application of wollastonite and sodium hexametaphosphate. This work highlights the value of bioaccessibility-corrected HRA for screening the optimal Cd immobilization strategy to achieve safer rice consumption. [Display omitted] • In-situ soil Cd immobilization reduced Cd in rice grain to below allowable limits. • Allowable limits for Cd in rice was inadequate for the southern China populations. • Bioaccessibilities of Cd in rice during simulated human digestion were inconsistent. • Bioaccessibility-corrected health risk assessment better reflected Cd exposure risk. • Combining soil Cd immobilization with risk assessment make safer rice consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An evaluation index for water injection strategies is proposed. • An optimization method to the trade-off of wate/fuel consumption is presented. • Optimization on different water injection strategies is performed. • Water consumption reduced by 73% under the space cost injection strategy. For the requirements of rigorous CO 2 and emissions regulations, the water injection technique is a promising solution to improve fuel economy. The establishment of an optimum water injection strategy is still a challenge when this technique is applied as a method of thermal efficiency enhancement. The present study proposes an evaluation index for the energy conservation potential of water injection strategies, which optimizes water consumption and minimizes the negative influence on energy conservation. An evaluation approach based on Brent's method is adopted to search the optimum combination parameters of objection function, in which constraints consider fuel cost, usage cost, and space cost. A comprehensive vehicle dynamics model is established and validated to evaluate the energy conservation potential of proposed water injection strategies. The results present the proposed index provides an effective approach to assessing the trade-off relationship between water and fuel consumption. The fuel cost strategy improves fuel economy by 5.2% along the WLTC driving cycle, but this strategy consumes a large amount of water (1.08 L/100 km). In contrast, the proposed usage and space cost strategies save water consumption to 0.58 L/100 km and 0.29 L/100 km, respectively, although their ability to fuel conservation reduces to 4.8% and 4.5%, correspondingly. The comparison results provide considerable guidance on the selection of water injection strategies for vehicle designers and customers according to their purposes and demands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: This study aimed to characterize the topological alterations and classification performance of high‐order functional connectivity (HOFC) networks in cognitively preserved patients with Parkinson's disease (PD), relative to low‐order FC (LOFC) networks. Methods: The topological metrics of the constructed networks (LOFC and HOFC) obtained from fifty‐one cognitively normal patients with PD and 60 matched healthy control subjects were analyzed. The discriminative abilities were evaluated using machine learning approach. Results: The HOFC networks in the PD group showed decreased segregation and integration. The normalized clustering coefficient and small‐worldness in the HOFC networks were correlated to motor performance. The altered nodal centralities (distributed in the precuneus, putamen, lingual gyrus, supramarginal gyrus, motor area, postcentral gyrus and inferior occipital gyrus) and intermodular FC (frontoparietal and visual networks, sensorimotor and subcortical networks) were specific to HOFC networks. Several highly connected nodes (thalamus, paracentral lobule, calcarine fissure and precuneus) and improved classification performance were found based on HOFC profiles. Conclusion: This study identified disrupted topology of functional interactions at a high level with extensive alterations in topological properties and improved differentiation ability in patients with PD prior to clinical symptoms of cognitive impairment, providing complementary insights into complex neurodegeneration in PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Liver injury is one of the common complications of paraquat (PQ) poisoning, but whether the degree of liver injury is related to patient prognosis is still controversial. This study aimed to investigate whether liver injury was a risk factor for death in PQ‐poisoned patients. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of PQ‐poisoned patients from the past 10 years (2011–2020) from a large tertiary academic medical centre in China. PQ‐poisoned patients were divided into a normal liver function group (n = 580) and a liver injury group (n = 60). Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was then performed. Results: A total of 640 patients with PQ poisoning were included in this study. To reduce the impact of bias, dose of PQ, urinary PQ concentration and time from poisoning to hospital admission were matched between the two groups. A 3:1 PSM analysis was performed, ultimately including 240 patients. Compared with the normal liver function group, patients in the liver injury group were older, had a higher R value ([ALT/ULN]/[ALP/ULN]) (p <.001) and had a higher mortality rate. Cox regression analysis showed that there was no significant association between alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total bilirubin levels and hazard of death, but age, PQ dose, creatine kinase isoenzyme, creatine kinase, white blood cell count, neutrophil percentage and lymphocyte percentage were associated with mortality in patients with PQ poisoning. Conclusions: The occurrence of liver injury within 48 h after PQ poisoning was a risk factor for mortality, and such liver injury was likely of a hepatocellular nature. Age, PQ dose, creatine kinase isoenzyme and white blood cell count were positively correlated with mortality, while creatine kinase, percentage of neutrophils and lymphocytes were inversely correlated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pathological process in Parkinson's disease (PD) is accompanied with functional and metabolic alterations. The time-varying properties of functional coherence and their coupling to regional perfusion are still rarely elucidated. To investigate early disruption of dynamic regional homogeneity (dReho) and neurovascular coupling in cognitively normal PD patients, dynamic neuronal synchronization and regional perfusion were measured using dReho and cerebral blood flow (CBF), respectively. Neurovascular coupling was assessed by CBF-ReHo correlation coefficient and CBF/ReHo ratio. Multivariate pattern analysis was conducted for the differentiating ability of each feature. Relative to healthy controls (HC) subjects, PD patients demonstrated increased dReho in middle temporal gyrus (MTG), rectus gyrus, middle occipital gyrus, and precuneus, whereas reduced dReho in putamen and supplementary motor area (SMA); while higher CBF/dReho ratio was located in putamen, SMA, paracentral lobule, and postcentral gyrus, whereas lower CBF/dReho ratio in superior temporal gyrus, MTG, precuneus, and angular gyrus (AG). Global and regional CBF-Reho decoupling were both observed in PD groups. The CBF/Reho ratio features achieved more powerful classification performance than other features. From the view of dynamic neural synchronization and neurovascular coupling, this study reinforced the insights into neural basis underlying PD and the potential role in the disease diagnosis and differentiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic biochar has been widely used in the removal of aquatic pollutants due to its strong adsorption capacity and recyclability. However, the nutrient deficiency caused by magnetic biochar reduces plant performance and limits its use. The effects of magnetic biochar (derived from either eucalyptus wood or pig manure compost) on soil Cd, Zn, and Pb bioavailability to Phragmites australis L. (reed) and soil microbial community were investigated in a pot experiment. We also examined treatments of magnetic biochar with P supplementation and unmodified biochar with Fe addition to elucidate the mechanism by which magnetic biochar affects plant growth. We found that the addition of magnetic biochar significantly reduced the concentrations of available heavy metals in soil and inhibited heavy metal uptake by reeds. It also promoted the formation of iron plaque on reed roots to inhibit metal translocation. However, compared to unmodified biochar, magnetic biochar reduced reed performance, as indicated by the reduced plant biomass and photosynthetic ability, and it also reduced the biomass of soil bacteria and fungi. This was due to the interception of P by the iron plaque and the reduced concentration of soil available P. Collectively, although magnetic biochar exhibited a strong potential for heavy metal remediation, P supplementation is recommended to maintain plant performance and soil health when applying magnetic biochar. Unlabelled Image • Recyclable magnetic biochar was useful for soil heavy metal remediation. • The use of magnetic biochar promoted the formation of iron plaque on the reed root. • The iron oxide from magnetic biochar reduced soil P availability. • Plant performance and soil microbial biomass were reduced due to P deficiency. • P supplementation should be recommended in magnetic biochar-applied soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titania/electro-reduced graphene oxide nanohybrids (TiO2/ErGO) were synthesized by the hydrolysis of titanium sulfate in graphene oxide suspension and in situ electrochemical reduction. It provides a facile and efficient method to obtain nanohybrids with TiO2 nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) uniformly coated by graphene nanoflakes. TiO2/ErGO nanohybrids were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, cyclic voltammogram, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in detail. Compared with pure ErGO and TiO2 NPs, TiO2/ErGO nanohybrids greatly enhanced the electrocatalytic activity and voltammetric response of Allura Red. In the concentration range of 0.5–5.0 μM, the anodic peak currents of Allura Red were linearly correlated to their concentrations. However, the linear relationship was changed to the semi-logarithmic relationship at a higher concentration region (5.0–800 μM). The detection limit (LOD) was 0.05 μM at a signal-to-noise ratio of 3. The superior sensing performances of the proposed sensor can be ascribed to the synergistic effect between TiO2 NPs and ErGO, which provides a favorable microenvironment for the electrochemical oxidation of Allura Red. The proposed TiO2/ErGO/GCE showed good reproducibility and stability both in determination and in storage, and it can accurately detect the concentration of Allura Red in milk drinks, providing an efficient platform for the sensitive determination of Allura Red with high reliability, simplicity, and rapidness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To quantitatively compare the diagnostic values of conventional diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and introvoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) analysis of microstructural differences for clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Multiple b value DWIs and IVIMs were performed in patients with 146 ccRCCs, 42 with Grade Ⅰ, 46 with Grade Ⅱ, 28 with Grade Ⅲ and 30 with Grade Ⅳ. These tumours were divided into low (Ⅰ+Ⅱ, n = 88) and high grades (Ⅲ+Ⅳ, n = 58). The diagnostic efficacy of various diffusion parameters for predicting ccRCC grades was compared. The mean signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) of IVIM images at b = 0, 800 and 1500 s/mm2 were 31.9, 12.3 and 8.4, respectively. The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), D and D* values correlated negatively with ccRCC grading (r = -0.786,–0.913, −0879, p < 0.05). f values correlated positively with ccRCC grading (r = 0.811, p < 0.05). The ADC, D and D* values were higher for Grade Ⅱ ccRCC than that of Grade Ⅲ ccRCC (p < 005), however, f values were higher for Grade Ⅲ ccRCC than that of Grade Ⅱ ccRCC (p < 005). Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses showed that D values had the highest diagnostic efficacy in differentiating low/high and Ⅱ/Ⅲ ccRCC grading. The area under the curve, sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of the D values were 0.963, 0.960; 90.9%, 89.1%; 81.0%,78.6 and 89.0%, 87.8%, respectively. For pairwise comparisons of receiver operating characteristic curves and diagnostic efficacy, ADC was worse than IVIM (all p < 0.05). IVIM parameters have better performance than ADC in differentiating ccRCC grading, given an adequate SNR of IVIM images. 1. D values had the highest diagnostic efficacy in differentiating low/high and Ⅱ/Ⅲ ccRCC grading. 2. IVIM parameters have better performance than ADC in differentiating ccRCC grading, given an adequate SNR of IVIM images. 3. The ADC, D and D* values correlated negatively with ccRCC grading, however, f values correlated positively with ccRCC grading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A highly stable electrochemical sensing platform coupled with molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) and gold nanoparticle/black phosphorus nanocomposite (BPNS-AuNPs) was constructed for the selective detection of Pefloxacin in food samples. [Display omitted] • Highly stable electrochemical sensor for selective determination of Pefloxacin. • Label-free, molecularly imprinted polymer voltammetric sensor. • BPNS-AuNPs were prepared via a spontaneous redox reaction. • Wide linear range (0.005–10 μM), low LOD (0.08 nM) and good stability (5 weeks). • Highly sensitivity for detecting PEF in milk, and orange juice. The overuse of pefloxacin (PEF) leaves residues in foods. Therefore, the development of robust analytical techniques for the selective detection of PEF is of great importance. In this study, a highly stable electrochemical sensing platform has been constructed, using molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP)-coated gold nanoparticle/black phosphorus nanocomposites (BPNS-AuNPs), for the selective detection of PEF. BPNS-AuNPs significantly enhance the black phosphorus (BP) stability and electrochemical activity and offer a larger surface area to accommodate more imprinted sites for selective PEF binding. MIP/BPNS-AuNPs exhibit a broad linear detection range (0.005–10 μM), low detection limit (0.80 nM), and high sensitivity (3.199 μA μM−1). The MIP/BPNS-AuNPs show a high binding affinity for PEF, even in the presence of structural analogs, and maintain stable voltammetric signals for at least 35 d. The MIP sensor exhibits consistent high sensitivity in the detection of PEF in real milk and orange juice samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coastal blue carbon ecosystems, particularly mangroves, are becoming increasingly recognised for their importance in mitigating climate change. Still, the specific patterns and drivers of plant lignin components and microbial necromass accumulation in these ecosystems are unclear.In response, we carried out a study along a 40‐year mangrove restoration chronosequence, measuring lignin phenol and amino sugar concentrations in soil profiles (0–100 cm) as indicators of plant‐based and microbial‐derived residues, respectively.Our results showed that restoration significantly increased plant lignin phenol and amino sugar concentrations, with mature mangroves having much higher concentrations than tidal flats. During restoration, the fungal necromass was greater than the bacterial necromass. The factors influencing the lignin phenols were tree biomass, total nitrogen, pH and salinity, while those influencing the formation of amino sugars were total biomass, soil C: N ratio and pH. While the amino sugars decreased, the lignin phenols increased with the content of SOC, providing evidence of the important role lignin phenol components play in the formation of SOC in mangrove.Synthesis: By separating soil carbon into plant‐based and microbial‐derived components, our results demonstrate that the carbon stock in mangrove sediments is vulnerable to disturbances and that changes from anaerobic to aerobic conditions cause significant carbon mineralisation. The precise identification of soil carbon sources in blue carbon ecosystems could aid in elucidating the mechanisms of soil carbon sequestration and their responses to environmental changes. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: TOMM40 '523 has been associated with cognitive performance and risk for developing Alzheimer's disease independent of the effect of APOE genotype. Few studies have considered the longitudinal effect of this genotype on change in cognition over time. Objective: Our objective was to evaluate the relationship between TOMM40 genotype status and change in cognitive performance in the TOMMORROW study, which was designed to prospectively evaluate an algorithm that includes TOMM40 '523 for genetic risk for conversion to mild cognitive impairment. Methods: We used latent growth curve models to estimate the effect of TOMM40 allele carrier (short, very long) status on the intercept and slope of change in cognitive performance in four broad cognitive domains (attention, memory, executive function, and language) and a combined overall cognitive score over 30 months. Results: TOMM40 very long allele carriers had significantly lower baseline performance for the combined overall cognitive function score (B = –0.088, p = 0.034) and for the executive function domain score (B = –0.143, p = 0.013). Slopes for TOMM40 very long carriers had significantly greater increases over time for the executive function domain score only. In sensitivity analyses, the results for executive function were observed in participants who remained clinically stable, but not in those who progressed clinically over the study duration. Conclusions: Our results add to the growing body of evidence that TOMM40, in the absence of APOEɛ4, may contribute to cognitive changes with aging and dementia and support the view that mitochondrial function is an important contributor to Alzheimer's disease risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The orexin 2 receptor‐selective agonist danavorexton (TAK‐925) has been shown to produce wake‐promoting effects in wild‐type mice, narcolepsy‐model mice, and individuals with narcolepsy type 1 and type 2. Here, we report wake‐promoting effects of danavorexton in non‐human primates and healthy men during their sleep phase. Electroencephalogram analyses revealed that subcutaneous administration of danavorexton significantly increased wakefulness in common marmosets (p < 0.05 at 0.1 mg kg−1, and p < 0.001 at 1 mg kg−1 and 10 mg kg−1) and cynomolgus monkeys (p ≤ 0.05 at 1 mg kg−1 and 3 mg kg−1). In a phase 1b crossover, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled and active‐controlled study in sleep‐deprived healthy participants (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03522506), modafinil 300 mg (used to demonstrate assay sensitivity) and continuous infusion of danavorexton 44 mg and danavorexton 112 mg showed statistically superior wake‐promoting effects to placebo (n = 18). Measured using the Maintenance of Wakefulness Test, mean (standard deviation) sleep latencies during infusion of danavorexton 44 mg, danavorexton 112 mg and placebo were 21.4 (8.9), 31.8 (3.2) and 9.2 (6.4) min, respectively. Least‐squares mean difference from placebo in average sleep latency was 16.8 min with danavorexton 44 mg and 30.2 min with danavorexton 112 mg (both p < 0.001). Karolinska Sleepiness Scale scores were statistically significantly lower (indicating decreased sleepiness) for participants receiving danavorexton than for those receiving placebo during infusion (danavorexton 44 mg, p = 0.010; danavorexton 112 mg, p < 0.001). Together, these results indicate that an orexin 2 receptor agonist increases wakefulness in non‐human primates and healthy individuals during their sleep phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achieving equitable and harmonized socio-economic development is a vital gauge of national progress, particularly in geographically extensive nations such as China. This study, employing nighttime lights as a socio-economic development indicator and remote sensing vegetation indices, investigates spatial variations in wealth distribution across China's eastern and western regions, delineated by the Hu Huanyong Line. It uncovers the balance between economic growth and green space preservation and discrepancies in development and green space allocation. A thorough county-level analysis using this nighttime light (NTL) and vegetation index exposes the dynamic shifts in socio-economic focal points. The Gini coefficient, assessing inequality and spatial autocorrelation within the index ratio, enriches our regional development understanding. The findings depict a heterogeneous yet rapid economic expansion, primarily within a 30 km coastal buffer zone. Despite a decrease in Gini coefficients in both eastern and western regions, the potential for inland development escalates as coastal illumination approaches saturation. This study unveils enduring, yet lessening, economic disparities between eastern and western China, underscoring the necessity for green preservation in eastern development plans. Moreover, inland regions emerge as potential areas for accelerated development. This study offers crucial insights for formulating balanced, sustainable regional development strategies in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Cases of primary renal lymphoma (PRL) are quite rare and are often mistaken for renal cell carcinoma. Purpose To determine the multislice computed tomography (MSCT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics of PRL. Materials and Methods Twenty-three patients with PRL were identified by CT and MRI, and their tumor characteristics were assessed. Results Tumors exhibited single or multifocal nodules (n = 19) and diffuse renal enlargement (n = 4). Twenty-two tumors exhibited an infiltrative appearance. There was no evidence of calcification in any of the cases. Twenty-one tumors displaced or wrapped around abdominal vessels rather than encasing them. Enlarged retroperitoneal nodes were observed in three cases. Neither extension into the venous system nor distant metastasis was found. Tumor enhancement was of low attenuation compared with that of normal renal cortex and medulla ( P < 0.05). PRL was isointense on T1-weighted imaging, slightly hypointense on T2-weighted imaging and hyperintense on diffusion-weighted imaging. Twenty-two patients exhibited biopsy-confirmed PRN. There were four, 12, and seven cases of low-grade, intermediate-grade, and high-grade tumors, respectively. Patient were followed up over 16 to 166 months. Six patients died within three years and five patients died within five years. Conclusion Infiltrative appearance and tumor displacement or extension around abdominal vessels rather than vessel encasement are common findings on CT or MRI imaging and may suggest a diagnosis of PRL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen (N) deposition is a pervasive anthropogenic change that can alter the dynamics and storage of carbon (C) in tropical soils by altering the transformation of plant litter C to soil organic C (SOC). The response of fungi may be particularly important for explaining how N deposition affects SOC storage in tropical forests because they are the primary decomposers of plant litter. Fungi can be grouped into different ecological guilds, or functional groups, which often have contrasting responses to the same environmental change. However, little is known if shifts in fungal guilds and their functions explain increased tropical forest SOC storage under N deposition.We addressed this knowledge gap by assessing the effects of long‐term (6 years) experimental N addition (+N) on fungal guilds, their functions and SOC fractions in a tropical forest.Total SOC, dissolved organic C (DOC), particulate organic C and fungal necromass C were all higher in +N soils. The fungal community in +N soils was dominated by generalist saprotrophs, and leaf saprotroph abundance increased nearly 93‐fold compared to controls. These changes were accompanied by an increase in lignocellulolytic enzymes, indicating accelerated decomposition of recalcitrant litter C compounds. Chitosanase, which catalyses synthesis of glucosamine, was 1.37× higher in +N soils than controls; correspondingly, fungal necromass C contributed 1.42× more to SOC. Greater abundance of saprotrophic enzymes involved in organic acid synthesis in +N soils was associated with higher concentration of Ca2+ and DOC.We propose that N deposition increases SOC storage by enhancing saprotroph abundance and activity, whereby increased organic acid production supports fungal growth both directly and indirectly via the release of nutrients and DOC, resulting in greater inputs of necromass to the soil. Our findings highlight the importance of considering shifts in guild‐level fungal abundance and function to investigate changes in SOC dynamics and storage. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introduction of anthropogenic inputs into natural systems may lead to enduring alterations in the innate characteristics of Rare Earth Elements (REEs). Against this backdrop, the evolutionary processes and environmental drivers of REEs in soil remain uncertain. A 3000-year soil chronosequence with uniform parent material was established in reclaimed farmland along the Yangtze River, reconstructing, for the first time, the dynamic processes of REE accumulation and fractionation over a long-time scale. Analysis of 122 soil samples showed REE concentrations ranging from 146.00 to 216.56 μg/g. Based on reclamation duration, three significant stages of REE evolution were identified: natural leaching, rapid accumulation, and stable accumulation with differentiation. Reclaimed soil after 3000 years exhibited a 14.1 % increase in REE concentrations compared to fresh sediments, attributed to anthro -pedogenic processes. Moreover, Heavy Rare Earth Elements (HREEs) accumulated faster than Light Rare Earth Elements (LREEs), particularly in deeper soils (60–100 cm), where HREE concentrations rose by 34.3 %, mainly due to acidic environments promoting HREE fixation. Additionally, the potential ecological risk posed by REEs heightened with reclamation duration, with HREEs exhibiting a sensitivity of 83 % to 94 %. Our findings stress the urgency of carefully monitoring exogenous REEs introduced through anthropogenic activities, particularly HREEs. [Display omitted] • The increase in reclamation duration facilitates the accumulation of REEs. • Three notable stages of REE evolution were delineated. • Along with REE evolution, HREEs exhibit a faster accumulation rate than LREEs. • HREEs show higher ecological risk sensitivity, making up 83–94 % of REEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein we present a facile synthesis of the graphene oxide-decorated binary transition metal oxides of Bi2O3 and MnO2 nanocomposites (Bi2O3/MnO2/GO) and their applications in the voltammetric detection of lead ions (Pb2+) in water samples. The surface morphologies, crystal structures, electroactive surface area, and charge transferred resistance of the Bi2O3/MnO2/GO nanocomposites were investigated through the scanning electron microscopy (SEM), power X-ray diffraction (XRD), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) techniques, respectively. The Bi2O3/MnO2/GO nanocomposites were further decorated onto the surface of a glassy carbon electrode (GCE), and Pb2+ was quantitatively analyzed by using square-wave anodic stripping voltammetry (SWASV). We explored the effect of the analytical parameters, including deposition potential, deposition time, and solution pH, on the stripping peak current of Pb2+. The Bi2O3/MnO2/GO nanocomposites enlarged the electroactive surface area and reduced the charge transferred resistance by significant amounts. Moreover, the synergistic enhancement effect of MnO2, Bi2O3 and GO endowed Bi2O3/MnO2/GO/GCE with extraordinary electrocatalytic activity toward Pb2+ stripping. Under optimal conditions, the Bi2O3/MnO2/GO/GCE showed a broad linear detection range (0.01–10 μM) toward Pb2+ detection, with a low limit of detection (LOD, 2.0 nM). The proposed Bi2O3/MnO2/GO/GCE electrode achieved an accurate detection of Pb2+ in water with good recoveries (95.5–105%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Norfloxacin (NOR) is an antibiotic commonly used to treat humans and food-producing animals. Owing to NOR abuse, its residues are frequently found in animal-derived food products and the surrounding environment. Therefore, development of an efficient analytical technique for the selective determination of trace NOR is greatly significant for food safety and environmental protection. Here, we fabricated an ultrasensitive, label-free molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) voltammetric sensor for the selective determination of NOR, based on an Au nanoparticle-functionalized black phosphorus nanosheet nanocomposite (BPNS-AuNP) covered by a polypyrrole-imprinted film. BPNS-AuNP nanocomposites were prepared via an in-situ one-step method without the use of reducing agents. The imprinted polypyrrole film was formed on the surface of the BPNS-AuNPs in the presence of NOR. The physical properties and electrochemical behavior of the MIP/BPNS-AuNPs were investigated using various characterization techniques, and the analytical parameters were optimized. We found that BPNS-AuNPs improve the ambient stability and electrocatalytic activity, providing a large surface area for locating a higher number of specific recognition sites. Consequently, the MIP/BPNS-AuNP/GCE showed excellent sensing performance toward NOR, with a wide linear response range (0.1 nM − 10 μM), an extremely low limit of detection (0.012 nM), and extraordinary selectivity. Moreover, the MIP/BPNS-AuNP/GCE was used to determine NOR in various experimental samples with satisfactory results. [Display omitted] • Ultrasensitive sensor for selective determination of norfloxacin. • Label-free, molecularly imprinted polymer voltametric sensor. • An in-situ one-step route for BPNS-AuNP preparation without any reductants. • Wide linear range (0.0001 −10 μM), low LOD (0.012 nM), and good stability (~16 d). • Selective norfloxacin determination in medical, food, and environmental samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Light fidelity (LiFi) would be a potential optical wireless communications technology for future mixed-spectrum 5G/6G indoor attocell network, which uses light-emitting diodes based as an optical antenna and offers Gbits capacity. For this scenario, a dynamic handover scheme based on bidirectional visible light communications (VLC) channel is proposed, which uses the uplink light sources to characterize terminal's movement status for the mobility and make the handover decision in contrast to the unidirectional links. The uplink reference signal received power and the movement state are examined, and the created algorithm is executed in the bidirectional VLC test bed. The experimental results show that the proposed method will reduce the terminal's handover rate by up to 45% and increase the optical network throughput by up to 26% at the experimental data rate compared with the skipping handover scheme for indoor LiFi network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To quantitatively compare the diagnostic values of conventional region of interest (ROI)-based and volumetric histogram analysis derived from CT enhancement in differentiating malignant and benign renal tumors. A total of 230 patients with pathologically confirmed renal tumors who had undergone CT enhancement were classified into clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) (n = 133), non-ccRCC (n = 56), and benign renal tumor(n = 41) group. Parametric CT enhancement of each tumor from volumetric histogram were obtained using in-house software, including 10th percentile, 25th percentile, median, 75th percentile, 90th percentile, mean, standard deviation, as well as skewness, kurtosis and entropy, and histogram metrics among these groups were analyzed. ROI-based enhancement density was also analyzed. The entropy and SD values of ccRCCs were higher than those of non-ccRCCs and benign renal tumors (p < 0.05). The 10th percentile, 25th percentile, median, 75th percentile, 90th percentile and mean values of ccRCCs were lower than those of benign renal tumors, however, higher than those of non-ccRCCs (p < 0.05). The ROI-based enhancement density of non-ccRCCs were lower than those of ccRCCs and benign renal tumors(p < 0.05). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses showed that entropy and mean values had the highest diagnostic efficacy in differentiating ccRCCs/non-ccRCCs and benign renal tumors. ROC curve analyses showed that mean values had the highest diagnostic efficacy in differentiating ccRCCs and non-ccRCCs. In terms of pairwise comparisons of ROC curves and diagnostic efficacy, ROI-based CT enhancement density was worse than volumetric histogram analysis (p < 0.05). Volumetric histogram analysis parameters can effectively distinguish malignant and benign renal tumors. 1. Entropy and mean values had the highest diagnostic efficacy in differentiating ccRCCs/ non-ccRCCs and benign renal tumors. 2. Mean values had the highest diagnostic efficacy in differentiating ccRCCs and non-ccRCCs. 3.Volumetric histogram analysis had better performance than ROI-based enhancement density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article evaluates the multislice computed tomography (MSCT) imaging features of metanephric adenoma, as accurate diagnosing is important for guiding clinical treatment. Metanephric adenoma is a rare subtype of renal tumors, and patients with metanephric adenoma have a good prognosis after undergoing local resection with kidney preservation.

Epidemiological studies on heavy metal exposure and liver injury are predominantly cross-sectional, lacking longitudinal data and exploration of potential mechanisms. We conducted a repeated-measures study in Northeast China from 2016 to 2019, involving 322 participants. Linear mixed models (LMM) and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) were employed to explore the associations between individual and mixed blood metal concentrations [chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), vanadium (V), manganese (Mn), lead (Pb)] and liver function biomarkers [alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), albumin (ALB), globulin (GLB), total protein (TP)]. Mediation and enrichment analyses were used to determine whether the inflammatory response is a critical pathway for heavy metal-induced liver damage. We obtained a total of 958 observations. The results from LMM and BKMR indicated significant associations between individual and mixed heavy metals and liver function biomarkers. Longitudinal analysis revealed associations between Cd and the annual increase rate of ALT (β = 2.61; 95% CI: 0.97, 4.26), the annual decrease rate of ALB (β = −0.21; 95% CI: −0.39, −0.03), Mn and the annual increase rate of GLB (β = 0.38; 95% CI: 0.05, 0.72), and V and the annual decrease rate of ALB/GLB (β = −1.15; 95% CI: −2.00, −0.31). Mediation analysis showed that high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) mediated the associations between Cd and AST, TP, with mediation effects of 27.7% and 13.4%, respectively. Additionally, results from Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses supported the role of inflammatory response pathways. Our findings indicate that heavy metal exposure leads to liver damage, with the inflammatory response potentially serving as a crucial pathway in this process. This study offers a novel perspective on understanding heavy metal-induced liver injury and provides insights for preventive measures against the health damage caused by heavy metals. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mangrove ecosystems are pivotal in blue carbon capture, yet they can also release varying levels of methane (CH 4). Fiddler crabs are known players in carbon (C) cycling within mangrove ecosystems, but their precise contributions to CH 4 emissions and microbially-driven processes are not yet well understood. We compared CH 4 emissions, soil physicochemical properties, and methanogenic and methanotrophic communities in non-bioturbated and bioturbated soils within two mangrove communities: Sonneratia apetala (SA) and Pongamia pinnata (PP). The presence of fiddler crabs led to an increase in CH 4 emission rates in the bioturbated soil, ranging from 86% to 430% compared to un-bioturbated soil. The bioturbated soil also exhibited higher levels of ammonium, pH, and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) but with lower concentrations of nitrate, sulfate, salinity, and total nitrogen. Moreover, an increase was observed in the abundance methanogenic communities, but the abundance and diversity of methanotrophic communities was reduced in the bioturbated soil. The increased abundance of Methanosarcina and reduced abundance of type II methanotrophs in the bioturbated soil could result in an overall increase in CH 4 emissions. This study result highlights that bioturbation can greatly influence CH 4 emissions in mangroves and emphasizes the importance of considering the ecological role of fiddler crabs in the evaluation of coastal blue carbon sequestration. [Display omitted] • Fiddler crabs greatly accelerated CH 4 emissions in mangrove soils. • Crab bioturbation changed soil properties. • Crab bioturbation altered CH 4 -cycling communities. • CH 4 -cycling communities were associated with sulfate and salinity. • Fiddler crabs should be considered in mangrove carbon-cycling processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantifying soil organic carbon (SOC) dynamics is critical for monitoring agricultural sustainability and mitigating global climate change. A study was done to investigate the SOC changes between 2003 and 2016 by DeNitrification-DeComposition (DNDC) model in an intensively cultivated region of eastern China, using a detailed high-resolution soil database, which contained 4875 sites (0–20 cm depth) with the sampling density of one sample per km2 in 2003. Results showed the DNDC model had good performance for simulating the SOC dynamics in the study area. Spatial analysis showed that 71% of the study area gained C, whilst 29% maintained their C balance with no C loss in all areas. Results suggested that the current management practice facilitated soil C sequestration in this region although soil type also played an important role. SOC density (SOCD) in lime concretion black soil was significantly higher than those in other soils. The averaged global warming potential ranged from 3865.8 to 7110.8 kg CO2 equivalent ha−1 yr−1 from 2003 to 2016 with CH4 contributing the largest proportion, which might be associated with the high input of fertilizer. Spatially high-resolution estimates of SOC using DNDC can support dual agricultural and carbon management in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TAK-875 is a selective G-protein-coupled receptor 40 agonist in development for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluated the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of TAK-875 following administration of a single oral dose of TAK-875 (25-800 mg) in 60 healthy volunteers. TAK-875 was eliminated slowly with a mean terminal elimination t1/2 of approximately 28.1 to 36.6 hours. Systemic exposure of TAK-875 did not exhibit dose-proportional increases across the dose range evaluated due to a greater than proportional increase in exposure at doses greater than 200 mg. A preliminary food effect assessment indicated that coadministration of TAK-875 with a high-fat meal decreased Cmax of TAK-875 by 40% and AUC by 17%. Clinical adverse experiences were generally mild and transient. No dose-dependent pattern was observed. In healthy volunteers, no glucose-lowering effect and no increase in insulin or c-peptide secretion were evident following administration of TAK-875; the frequency of plasma glucose concentrations <70 mg/dL was similar in the TAK-875 and pooled placebo groups. TAK-875 was well tolerated in the study and has pharmacokinetic characteristics suitable for a once-daily regimen. The pharmacodynamic data support the notion that TAK-875, if effective in diabetic patients, may bear a low risk of hypoglycemia. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Abstract: The phasor measurement units (PMU) and wide-area measurement systems (WAMS) have been widely established in modern power systems to improve the monitoring of the system behavior as well as the system control. In this paper, an integrated scheme for the monitoring and detection of low-frequency oscillations has been developed, based on our extensive experience in using Prony algorithm for oscillation analysis in practical WAMS projects. By analyzing the real-time synchro-phasors, the proposed scheme is competent to identify the characteristics of the low-frequency oscillations in real-time and alert the operators once the oscillation is under-damped or divergent. To ensure accurate monitoring of system dynamics and reliable detection of dangerous oscillations with noise-polluted WAMS measurements, several key signal-processing techniques are implemented, including delicate designing of prefilters, Prony analysis result correction, and comprehensive indices for stability evaluation. In the end, the developed scheme is tested with simulated signals and measurements from practical power systems. Its applications to large-scale power grids for detection and early-warning of low-frequency oscillations are also presented. The results have convincingly demonstrated the validity and practicability of the developed scheme. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We examine the predictability of stock index returns (S&P500, S&P400 and Russell 2000) using the short-term interest rate as a predictor variable. Contrary to recent advances in the literature, we do find that the short-term interest rate has predictive power but over the relative performance of stock index returns (that is, when one accounts for cross-index differences), especially during the period when one of the index returns is negative. Trading strategies based on the finding prove to be profitable. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

To investigate the feasibility of magnetic resonance diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) and intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) for distinguishing Type 1 and 2 of papillary renal cell carcinoma (PRCC). A total of Type 1 (n = 20) and Type 2 (n = 16) of PRCC were examined by pathology. For DKI and IVIM, mean diffusivity (MD), fractional anisotropy (FA), mean kurtosis (MK), kurtosis anisotropy (KA), radial kurtosis (RK), diffusivity (D), pseudodiffusivity (D*) and perfusion fraction (f) were performed in assessment of type of PRCC. The mean SNRs of IVIM and DKI images at b = 1500 and 2000 s/mm2 were 8.6 ± 0.8 and 7.8 ± 0.6. Statistically significant differences were observed in MD and D values (1.11 ± 0.23 vs 0.73 ± 0.13, 0.91 ± 0.24 vs 0.49 ± 0.13, p < 0.05) between Type 1 and Type 2 of PRCC, while comparable FA, RK, D* and f values were found between Type 1 and Type 2 of PRCC (p > 0.05). Statistically significant differences were observed in MK and KA values (1.23 ± 0.16 vs 1.91 ± 0.26, 1.49 ± 0.19 vs 2.36 ± 0.39, p < 0.05) between Type 1 and Type 2 of PRCC. Areas of MD, MK, KA and D values under ROC curves for differentiating Type 1 and Type 2 of PRCC were 0.836, 0.818, 0.881 and 0.766, respectively. Using MD, MK, KA and D values of 0.93, 1.64, 1.94, 0.68 as the threshold value for differentiating Type 1 from Type 2 of PRCC, the best result obtained had a sensitivity of 85.0%, 80.0%, 90.0%, 85.0%, a specificity 75.0%, 68.7%, 87.5%, 81.2%, and an accuracy of 83.3%, 80.5%, 88.9%, 86.1%, respectively. DKI and IVIM are feasible techniques for distinguishing type of PRCC, given an adequate SNR of IVIM and DKI images. 1. MD and D values are higher for Type 1 of PRCC and lower for Type 2 of PRCC. 2. MK and KA values are higher for Type 2 of PRCC and lower for Type 1 of PRCC. 3. DKI and IVIM can be used as clinical biomarker for PRCC type's differential diagnosis, given an adequate SNR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The identification of people at risk of cognitive impairment is essential for improving recruitment in secondary prevention trials of Alzheimer's disease. We aimed to test and qualify a biomarker risk assignment algorithm (BRAA) to identify participants at risk of developing mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer's disease within 5 years, and to evaluate the safety and efficacy of low-dose pioglitazone to delay onset of mild cognitive impairment in these at-risk participants.Methods: In this phase 3, multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study, we enrolled cognitively healthy, community living participants aged 65-83 years from 57 academic affiliated and private research clinics in Australia, Germany, Switzerland, the UK, and the USA. By use of the BRAA, participants were grouped as high risk or low risk. Participants at high risk were randomly assigned 1:1 to receive oral pioglitazone (0·8 mg/day sustained release) or placebo, and all low-risk participants received placebo. Study investigators, site staff, sponsor personnel, and study participants were masked to genotype, risk assignment, and treatment assignment. The planned study duration was the time to accumulate 202 events of mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer's disease in White participants who were at high risk (the population on whom the genetic analyses that informed the BRAA development was done). Primary endpoints were time-to-event comparisons between participants at high risk and low risk given placebo (for the BRAA objective), and between participants at high risk given pioglitazone or placebo (for the efficacy objective). The primary analysis included all participants who were randomly assigned, received at least one dose of study drug, and had at least one valid post-baseline visit, with significance set at p=0·01. The safety analysis included all participants who were randomly assigned and received at least one dose of study medication. An efficacy futility analysis was planned for when approximately 33% of the anticipated events occurred in the high-risk, White, non-Hispanic or Latino group. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01931566.Findings: Between Aug 28, 2013, and Dec 21, 2015, we enrolled 3494 participants (3061 at high risk and 433 at low risk). Of those participants, 1545 were randomly assigned to pioglitazone and 1516 to placebo. 1104 participants discontinued treatment (464 assigned to the pioglitazone group, 501 in the placebo high risk group, and 139 in the placebo low risk group). 3399 participants had at least one dose of study drug or placebo and at least one post-baseline follow-up visit, and were included in the efficacy analysis. 3465 participants were included in the safety analysis (1531 assigned to the pioglitazone group, 1507 in the placebo high risk group, and 427 in the placebo low risk group). In the full analysis set, 46 (3·3%) of 1406 participants at high risk given placebo had mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer's disease, versus four (1·0%) of 402 participants at low risk given placebo (hazard ratio 3·26, 99% CI 0·85-12·45; p=0·023). 39 (2·7%) of 1430 participants at high risk given pioglitazone had mild cognitive impairment, versus 46 (3·3%) of 1406 participants at high risk given placebo (hazard ratio 0·80, 99% CI 0·45-1·40; p=0·307). In the safety analysis set, seven (0·5%) of 1531 participants at high risk given pioglitazone died versus 21 (1·4%) of 1507 participants at high risk given placebo. There were no other notable differences in adverse events between groups. The study was terminated in January, 2018, after failing to meet the non-futility threshold.Interpretation: Pioglitazone did not delay the onset of mild cognitive impairment. The biomarker algorithm demonstrated a 3 times enrichment of events in the high risk placebo group compared with the low risk placebo group, but did not reach the pre-specified significance threshold. Because we did not complete the study as planned, findings can only be considered exploratory. The conduct of this study could prove useful to future clinical development strategies for Alzheimer's disease prevention studies.Funding: Takeda and Zinfandel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoporosis is a prevalent systemic skeletal disorder, particularly affecting postmenopausal women, primarily due to excessive production and activation of osteoclasts. However, the current anti-osteoporotic drugs utilized in clinical practice may lead to certain side effects. Therefore, it is necessary to further unravel the potential mechanisms regulating the osteoclast differentiation and to identify novel targets for osteoporosis treatment. This study revealed the most significant decline in VSIG4 expression among the VSIG family members. VSIG4 overexpression significantly inhibited RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption function. Mechanistically, both western blot and immunofluorescence assay results demonstrated that VSIG4 overexpression attenuated the expression of osteoclast marker genes and dampened the activation of MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways. Furthermore, VSIG4 overexpression could inhibit the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and stimulate the expression of Nrf2 along with its downstream antioxidant enzymes via interaction with Keap1. Notably, a potent Nrf2 inhibitor, ML385, could reverse the inhibitory effect of VSIG4 on osteoclast differentiation. In line with these findings, VSIG4 overexpression also mitigated bone loss induced by OVX and attenuated the activation of osteoclasts in vivo. In conclusion, our results suggest that VSIG4 holds promise as a novel target for addressing postmenopausal osteoporosis. This is achieved by suppressing osteoclast formation via enhancing Nrf2-dependent antioxidant response against reactive oxygen species production. [Display omitted] • VSIG4 exhibited the most significant decline during osteoclastogenesis among VSIG family members. • Overexpression of VSIG4 significantly inhibited osteoclast formation and bone resorption function. • VSIG4 may interact with Keap1 and then promote Nrf2-dependent antioxidant response against ROS production. • Overexpression of VSIG4 can ameliorate OVX-induced bone loss by inhibiiting the formation of osteoclasts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research presents a filling method that strips the kernels from the seed group to address the poor performance and energy efficiency of the mechanical maize metering devices at high-speed operating conditions. In addition, it advances the design of a novel perforated type precision seed-metering device. The quantity and posture of seed filling are restricted by the perforated ring, which creates a dispersed particle flow, thus enhancing the filling effect of the seeding plate and reducing energy consumption. The structural design of critical components is completed, and the principle of improving performance and energy efficiency is analyzed. The DEM simulation and bench experiment assisted in analyzing the effects of operating parameters on seed dynamic characteristics, seeding plate's filling performance, and operational energy consumption. Finally, the optimal parameter combination is determined. The result demonstrates that the number of teeth in the perforated ring was 21, accompanied by an improved seed-filling effect and lower energy consumption. The metering performance was optimal when the tooth length of the perforated ring was 8.65 mm, the center angle of the teeth was 8°, and the operating speed was 13.55 km/h. Moreover, the qualified rate was 94.5%, the multiple rate was 2.7%, and the leakage rate was 2.8%. The operating speed was in the range of 8–14 km/h, the qualified rate of the perforated seed-metering device was higher than 92.7 %, the leakage rate was lower than 5.4 %, the multiple rate was lower than 3.5 %, and the coefficient of performance was more than 9.2. Its energy efficiency was significantly better than that of the picker finger seed-metering device and the air-suction seed-metering device, thus satisfying the demands for an efficient and cleaner production of maize. [Display omitted] • A filling method that strips the kernels from the seed group was presented. • A novel perforated type seed-metering device was designed for the efficient and cleaner production of maize. • A DEM simulation ascertained the interactions between the perforated ring and the seed. • The bench test verified the improvements of the perforated ring on high-speed metering performance and energy efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crop metal contamination caused by atmospheric metal pollution has been increasingly reported. To investigate the absorption, accumulation, and distribution of atmospheric metals in rice (Oryza sativa L.), a field experiment was conducted with rice grown at an atmospheric metal pollution site and a background site. The concentrations of Pb, Cd, Cu, Mn, and Zn in the atmospheric deposition at the pollution site were significantly higher than those at the background site. Consequently, the rice tillering number decreased by 56–64% and the yield decreased by 53–69% at the pollution site compared to the background site. Particularly, Pb isotope analysis found that 76% of the Pb in the rice grain at the pollution site was attributed to atmospheric Pb. Furthermore, observations by transmission electron microscopy found penetration through the leaf cuticle seems to be the primary pathway for the absorption of atmospheric metals. Using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry, it was found that the distribution of metals in rice grains at the two sites was similar, with Pb, Cr, Fe, Mn, Cu, and Ca mainly in the bran layer while Cd and Zn uniformly distributed throughout the entire grains. Possible solutions to address atmospheric metal pollution in crops are discussed. [Display omitted] • Atmospheric metal pollution not only led to accumulation of metals in rice grains but also reduced rice tillering and yield. • 76% of the Pb in the rice grains was attributed to the atmospheric source. • Penetration through the cuticle seems to be the main pathway for the absorption of atmospheric metals through the foliage. • Pb, Cr, Mn, and Cu were mainly localized in the bran layer, while Cd and Zn were distributed throughout the entire grain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, an ultrasensitive voltammetric sensor was constructed for the simultaneous detection of dopamine (DA) and uric acid (UA) using shuttle-like α-Fe2O3 nanoparticle/nitrogen-doped graphene nanocomposites (Fe2O3–NG). The surface morphologies, crystalline structures, and electrochemical properties of Fe2O3–NG were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, powder X-ray diffraction, cyclic voltammetry, and AC impedance spectroscopy. Coupling shuttle-like α-Fe2O3 with NG nanosheets not only enlarges the electrochemically active surface area and prevents the agglomeration of α-Fe2O3 NPs or NG nanosheets, but also increases the electroconductivity of α-Fe2O3 NPs and boosts its catalytic ability, thereby affording more electroactive sites for the adsorption and oxidation of target analytes. As expected, the Fe2O3–NG/GCE shows extraordinary electrocatalytic oxidation capacities toward DA and UA over two wide dynamical response concentration ranges of 0.5–10 μM and 10–100 μM, with low detection limits (LOD) of 0.080 and 0.075 μM for DA and UA, respectively. Moreover, the Fe2O3–NG/GCE shows high anti-interference ability against several potential interferences and retains stable voltammetric responses for at least a week. Finally, the Fe2O3–NG/GCE achieves the simultaneous determination of DA and UA in human serum with reliable results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]