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Enzymes with high catalytic activity and stability are essential for industrial production, yet most natural enzymes do not meet these requirements. Therefore, efficient strategies for enzyme engineering are crucial. In this study, we developed a cost-effective computational design strategy to enhance the activity of tyrosine phenol-lyase (TPL) for the production of L-DOPA. By integrating structural analysis with computational design, and guided by our understanding of conformational flexibility of TPL, we identified a region where enhanced stability is most likely to facilitate enzyme activity. We screened stabilizing mutations by Cartesian_ddg in Rosetta. After identifying single stabilizing mutations, we grouped the nearby positions harboring multiple stabilizing mutations and calculated the energy of combinatorial variants. We found two promising groups where most variants exhibited lower calculated energy than the wild-type. Experimental validation showed five variants in these groups exhibit increased activity, with the two best variants showing catalytic activity enhancements of 1.8-fold and 1.6-fold compared to the wild-type enzyme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

3D Gaussian Splatting has recently emerged as a powerful representation that can synthesize remarkable novel views using consistent multi‐view images as input. However, we notice that images captured in dark environments where the scenes are not fully illuminated can exhibit considerable brightness variations and multi‐view inconsistency, which poses great challenges to 3D Gaussian Splatting and severely degrades its performance. To tackle this problem, we propose Gaussian‐DK. Observing that inconsistencies are mainly caused by camera imaging, we represent a consistent radiance field of the physical world using a set of anisotropic 3D Gaussians, and design a camera response module to compensate for multi‐view inconsistencies. We also introduce a step‐based gradient scaling strategy to constrain Gaussians near the camera, which turn out to be floaters, from splitting and cloning. Experiments on our proposed benchmark dataset demonstrate that Gaussian‐DK produces high‐quality renderings without ghosting and floater artifacts and significantly outperforms existing methods. Furthermore, we can also synthesize light‐up images by controlling exposure levels that clearly show details in shadow areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate long-term outcomes and surgical essentials of channel repair in endoscopic transcorporeal discectomy for cervical disc herniation. From October 2019 to March 2020, 24 patients with cervical disc herniation underwent channel repair after percutaneous full-endoscopic anterior transcorporeal cervical discectomy. Five interventions were performed at C3-C4, 11 were performed at C4-C5, and 8 were performed at C5-C6. Clinical outcomes were evaluated by Neck Disability Index, Japanese Orthopaedic Association, and visual analog scale scores. Radiologic changes were evaluated with intervertebral disc height and drilled vertebral height. All procedures were completed with a mean operating time of 86.40 ± 8.19 minutes. Swollen neck was observed in 5 patients, which resolved within 2 hours. At the final follow-up, Neck Disability Index, Japanese Orthopaedic Association, and visual analog scale scores were improved significantly compared with preoperative assessments (P < 0.05); intervertebral disc height was decreased significantly (P < 0.05); and loss of drilled vertebral height was not significant (P > 0.05). All 24 bony channels disappeared by 3 months postoperatively. No other complications were observed. Percutaneous full-endoscopic anterior transcorporeal cervical discectomy with channel repair offers a minimally invasive and effective treatment option for patients with cervical disc herniation. This technique demonstrates favorable clinical outcomes, including preservation of cervical spine mobility and minimal complications. Although there was a significant loss of intervertebral disc height, no vertebral collapse occurred. Strict adherence to surgical indications and precautions is crucial for successful outcomes. Further research and long-term studies are required to validate the efficacy and safety of this approach in a larger patient population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives N-terminal fragment of titin (N-titin) is a marker of sarcomere damage in striated muscles; however, its value in patients with IIM (idiopathic inflammatory myopathy) is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic value of N-titin for skeletal muscle damage in patients with IIM. Methods Urine samples from 62 patients with IIM, 59 patients with other CTD diseases, and 29 healthy controls were collected to detect N-titin by ELISA assays. Clinical features and laboratory data were all included in logistic regression analysis to obtain the independent predictive factor for skeletal muscle damage. Results Urinary N-titin level of the IIM group [168.3 (19.0, 1279.0) pmol/mg cr] was significantly higher than that in CTD controls [2.80 (1.53, 3.60)] and healthy controls [1.83 (1.09, 2.95)] (P  < 0.001). IIM patients with skeletal muscle injury had a significantly higher level of urinary N-titin [1001.0, (181.8, 1977.0)] than those without [9.3, (5.8, 23.9)] (P  < 0.001). The N-titin level was strongly correlated with CK (r = 0.907, P  < 0.001) and muscle disease activity assessment scores by Spearman correlation analysis. After adjusting for the anti-MDA5 antibody and cardiac troponin T, N-titin was shown to independently predict skeletal muscle damage in patients with IIM (odds ratio = 1.035, 95% CI: 1.002, 1.069, P  = 0.039). The cut-off value of urinary N-titin to diagnose skeletal muscle damage was 89.9 pmol/mg Cr, with a sensitivity of 87.8% and a specificity of 100% (AUC = 0.971, 95% CI: 0.938, 1.000, P  < 0.001). Conclusion Urinary N-titin is a non-invasive and independent predictive factor for determining skeletal muscle damage in patients with IIM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the rice quality testing process, the precise segmentation and extraction of grain pixels is a key technique for accurately determining the quality of each seed. Due to the similar physical characteristics, small particles and dense distributions of rice seeds, properly analysing rice is a difficult problem in the field of target segmentation. In this paper, a network called SY-net, which consists of a feature extractor module, a feature pyramid fusion module, a prediction head module and a prototype mask generation module, is proposed for rice seed instance segmentation. In the feature extraction module, a transformer backbone is used to improve the ability of the network to learn rice seed features; in the pyramid fusion module and the prediction head module, a six-layer feature fusion network and a parallel prediction head structure are employed to enhance the utilization of feature information; and in the prototype mask generation module, a large feature map is used to generate high-quality masks. Training and testing were performed on two public datasets and one private rice seed dataset. The results showed that SY-net achieved a mean average precision (mAP) of 90.71% for the private rice seed dataset and an average precision (AP) of 16.5% with small targets in COCO2017. The network improved the efficiency of rice seed segmentation and showed excellent application prospects in performing rice seed quality testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The early detection and identification of stroke are essential to the prognosis of patients with suspected stroke symptoms out-of-hospital. We aimed to develop a risk prediction model based on the FAST score to identify the different types of strokes early for emergency medical services (EMS). Methods: This retrospective observational study enrolled 394 stroke patients at a single center from January 2020 to December 2021. Demographic data, clinical characteristics, and stroke risk factors with patients were collected from the EMS record database. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify the independent risk predictors. The nomogram was developed based on the independent predictors, in which the discriminative value and calibration of the nomogram were verified by the receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve and calibration plots. Results: A total of 31.90% (88/276) of patients were diagnosed with hemorrhagic stroke in the training set, while 36.40% (43/118) in the validation set. The nomogram was developed based on the multivariate analysis, including age, systolic blood pressure, hypertension, vomiting, arm weakness, and slurred speech. The area under the curve (AUC) of the ROC with nomogram was 0.796 (95% CI: 0.740–0.852, P < 0.001) and 0.808 (95% CI:0.728–0.887, P < 0.001) in the training set and validation set, respectively. In addition, the AUC with the nomogram was superior to the FAST score in both two sets. The calibration curve showed a good agreement with the nomogram and the decision curves analysis also demonstrated that the nomogram had a wider range of threshold probabilities than the FAST score in the prediction risk of hemorrhagic stroke. Conclusions: This novel noninvasive clinical nomogram shows a good performance in differentiating hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke for EMS staff prehospital. Moreover, all of the variables of nomogram are acquired in clinical practice easily and inexpensively out-of-hospital. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, an I2‐catalyzed unprecedented cycloisomerization of ynamides is developed, furnishing various functionalized bis(indole) derivatives in generally good to excellent yields with wide substrate scope and excellent atom‐economy. This protocol not only represents the first molecular‐iodine‐catalyzed tandem complex alkyne cycloisomerizations, but also constitutes the first chemoselective cycloisomerization of tryptamine‐ynamides involving distinctively different C(sp3)−C(sp3) bond cleavage and rearrangement. Moreover, chiral tetrahydropyridine frameworks containing two stereocenters are obtained with moderate to excellent diastereoselectivities and excellent enantioselectivities. Meanwhile, cycloisomerization and aromatization of ynamides produce pyrrolyl indoles with high efficiency enabled by I2. Additionally, control experiments and theoretical calculations reveal that this reaction probably undergoes a tandem 5‐exo‐dig cyclization/rearrangement process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, an I2‐catalyzed unprecedented cycloisomerization of ynamides is developed, furnishing various functionalized bis(indole) derivatives in generally good to excellent yields with wide substrate scope and excellent atom‐economy. This protocol not only represents the first molecular‐iodine‐catalyzed tandem complex alkyne cycloisomerizations, but also constitutes the first chemoselective cycloisomerization of tryptamine‐ynamides involving distinctively different C(sp3)−C(sp3) bond cleavage and rearrangement. Moreover, chiral tetrahydropyridine frameworks containing two stereocenters are obtained with moderate to excellent diastereoselectivities and excellent enantioselectivities. Meanwhile, cycloisomerization and aromatization of ynamides produce pyrrolyl indoles with high efficiency enabled by I2. Additionally, control experiments and theoretical calculations reveal that this reaction probably undergoes a tandem 5‐exo‐dig cyclization/rearrangement process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose a reconfigurable metadevice with independent polarization control based on a 90° rotationally symmetric microstructure. Three functionalities of broadband high-efficiency transmission, broadband high-efficiency reflection, and perfect absorption are switched by the on-state and off-state PIN diodes. Coding metadevices designed with diversified lumped element combinations are further studied in detail. By controlling the two diodes on the top layer in opposite states, absorption bandwidth is significantly improved. Reasonable arrangements of coding sequences allow for reflected dual/multi-beam modulation. Electric field distribution, power loss, complex impedance functions, and equivalent circuit models are used to better analyze the physical mechanism of the design. A prototype of the microstructure has been fabricated, and the experimental results agree well with the simulation. Electronic components integrated microstructures with high degrees of freedom have potential applications in intelligent wireless communication, electronic detection, advanced sensors, and smart stealth radomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under the background of innovation and entrepreneurship (IE) driving economic development and transformation, it is of great significance to cultivate talents who dare to innovate and have the ability to IE. By stimulating IE potential of college students and improving their willingness to IE and on the basis of understanding the current situation of college students' IE, we explore the relevant factors affecting the willingness of college students to innovate and start a business. From two aspects of internal and external factors, this paper divides the modules that affect IE intention of college students into individual characteristics, self-awareness, school education, and environmental factors. Then, we use the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to calculate the weight value of each influencing factor so as to determine and analyze the key influencing factors. Finally, according to the existing problems of college students' IE, we put forward countermeasures and suggestions to improve IE willingness of college students from the perspectives of school education and government policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Optimization of process parameters utilizing response surface methodology. • The optimized processing efficiency achieved 1.56 cm/h, with a roughness of 0.76 µm. • Successful machining of 4-inch diamond substrates. Microsecond-pulsed fiber laser was employed for the surface planarization processing of large-scale freestanding polycrystalline diamond. The effects of process parameters, including rotational processing speed, pulse duration, duty cycle, and line spacing, on the processing outcomes were investigated using statistical approach, specifically, response surface methodology (RSM). As for surface roughness (R), the influence of pulse width was more important than duty cycle and line spacing, while rotational processing speed hardly presented significant influence; however, for material removal rate (S), the impact of line spacing is most pronounced. The laser processing of diamond led to a graphitization, while the observed sputtering of small particles at the laser focus identified as the primary cause for high removal rates. The developed high-energy laser planarization system demonstrated capability in processing of large 4-inch diamond wafers, presenting an effective technology for achieving both higher-quality surfaces and elevated removal rates simultaneously in comparison to mechanical grinding methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on a study which examined the elevated levels of soluble T cell immunoglobulin (sTIM-3) and mucin-containing-molecule-3 in patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathy (IIM). It found that serum sTIM-3 is high in different autoimmune diseases and is linked to disease activity and specific organ involvement. It concludes that sTIM-3 may lead to IIM and could serve as a potential serological marker for IIM-interstitial lung disease.

In the study, candidate probiotics Bacillus with probiotic effect were screened from feces of healthy meat ducks. 45 gram-positive and spore producing strains were screened from feces, testing the ability of these 45 strains. The results showed that 45 strains had strong tolerance to artificial gastric juice and artificial intestinal juice. Five strains had strong ability to produce protease and amylase, and these five strains inhibited the growth of Escherichia coli and Salmonella and strain 21 had the strongest antibacterial ability. Five strains had different adhesion to mucin, of which strains 14 and 22 had relatively high adhesion. The results of molecular identification showed that three of five strains were Bacillus subtilis, one was Bacillus amyloliquefaciens and one was Bacillus licheniformis. The experiment indicates that it is easy to screen the candidate probiotic Bacillus with prebiotic effect in the feces of healthy meat ducks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface-exposed uniformly doped silicon-on-insulator channels are fabricated to evaluate the accuracy of Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy (KPFM) measured surface potential and reveals the role of surface charge on the exposed channel operated in the ambient environment. First, the quality of the potential profile probed in the vacuum environment is assessed by the consistency of converted resistivity from KPFM result to the resistivity extracted by the other three methods. Second, in contrast to the simulated and vacuum surface potential profile and image, the ambient surface potential is bent excessively at the terminals of the channel. The excessive bending can be explained by the movement of surface charge under the drive of geometry induced strong local electric field from the channel and results in non-uniform distribution. The dynamic movement of surface charges is proved by the observation of time-dependent potential drift in the ambient measurement. The result suggests the surface charge effect should be taken into account of the measurement of the surface potential in the ambient environment and the design of charge sensitive devices whose surfaces are exposed to air or in ambient conditions in their operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this study was to develop intraoperative biomaterials for use in endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) procedures that are stable during storage, easy to use, and effective in clinical practice. Therefore, injectable thermosensitive hydrogels were developed based on lactobionic acid-modified chitosan/chitosan/β-glycerophosphate (CSLA/CS/GP) hydrogel lyophilizate powders, and their properties were compared with original hydrogels that had not been freeze-dried. The results indicated that the lyophilizate powders retained their thermosensitive properties, and gels could be formed within 5 min at 37 °C. Compared to the original hydrogels, the injectability of the hydrogels derived from lyophilizate powders increased significantly. These novel materials maintained their original porous network lamellar structure but exhibited improved mechanical strength and tissue adhesion. Their application with L929 and GES-1 cells revealed that the lyophilizate powder hydrogels demonstrated good cytocompatibility and clearly protected the cells in an acidic environment. The results of submucosal injection experiments involving porcine stomach tissue indicated that the heights of the cushions created by CSLA/CS/GP lyophilizate powder hydrogels lasted longer than those generated with normal saline. The thermosensitive hydrogels based on lyophilizate powders may contribute to practical clinical applications involving ESD, and may also have potential value for other applications in the digestive tract. • Lyophilizate powder hydrogels are promising intraoperative biomaterials for ESD. • Lyophilized powders are stable during storage, easy to use. • The hydrogels derived from lyophilizate powder display excellent injectability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The influences of PM 10 concentrations on SPD values are investigated. • A strong influence of PM 10 on SPD could be noticed ranging from 380 to 540 nm. • A band of 510 nm is adopted to establish models and its models has been validated. • Other bands are also validated and the band ranges from 480 to 520 nm. • Quantitative study on SPD under PM 10 levels promotes building energy-efficient design. Daylight refers to a free and valuable resource exhibiting photometric and radiometric features, and the physical parameters commonly used to represent its features are irradiance and illuminance. They are both obtained by the spectral power distribution (SPD) of global irradiance, demonstrating that values noticeably affect indoor thermal and luminous environments. Nevertheless, outdoor particulate matter (PM) significantly affects SPD conditions, and two relative spectral notions, i.e., percentage of spectral irradiance (PSI r) and percentage of spectral illuminance (PSI l), were proposed to study the effects of PM 10 concentrations in radiometry and photometry with a field measurement, Beijing. As a result, the strong impact of PM 10 on PSI r / PSI l can be noticed in the range (380 to 540 nm) (P-value < 0.01) by correlation analysis, and a wavelength of 510 nm was taken to build models between PM 10 and PSI r / PSI l based on regression analysis. With this wavelength, PSI r varies from 0.29 to 0.25%, and PSI l ranges from 0.48 to 0.42% with the increase of PM 10 concentrations from 0.01 to 0.098 mg/m3. With the verification of the model, several bands were further analyzed to comprehensively verify the monotonic correlations, and the band ranging 480 ~ 520 nm were reasonably proved that PSI r /PSI l and PM 10 can be well indicated by each other. As influenced by the complexity of spectral transmittance through the glazing, the mutual characterization between solar spectrum and particulate matters can contribute to the building energy-efficient design and develop indoor thermal and luminous environment research in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Janus structures that include different functional compartments have attracted significant attention due to their specific properties in a diverse range of applications. However, it remains challenge to develop an effective strategy for achieving strong interfacial interaction. Herein, a Janus nanoreactor consisting of TiO2 2D nanocrystals integrated with Prussian blue analog (PBA) single crystals is proposed and synthesized by mimicking the planting process. In situ etching of PBA particles induces nucleation and growth of TiO2 nanoflakes onto the concave surface of PBA particles, and thus enhances the interlayer interaction. The anisotropic PBA–TiO2 Janus nanoreactor demonstrates enhanced photocatalytic activities for both water reduction and oxidation reactions compared with TiO2 and PBA alone. As far as it is known, this is the first PBA‐based composite that serves as a bifunctional photocatalyst for solar water splitting. The interfacial structure between two materials is vital for charge separation and transfer based on the spectroscopic studies. These results shed light on the elaborate construction of Janus nanoreactor, highlighting the important role of interfacial design at the microscale level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: China has made progress in tuberculosis control, but this disease remains a burden in many regions of China. We performed time-series analysis to examine changes in the rates of newly notified and newly smear-positive cases of tuberculosis in different regions of China from 1997 to 2018 and assessed the effect of the current control program. Methods: National and provincial notification data on tuberculosis from 1997 to 2018, which covers 31 provinces in the mainland of China, were extracted from the Chinese public health science data center. The annual percentage changes in newly notified and smear-positive cases were analyzed using a joinpoint regression method. Results: There were 18 646 672 newly notified tuberculosis cases from 1997 to 2018, with the greatest number in 2005. A total of 6 605 414 of these cases (35.42%) were smear-positive cases. The number of newly notified cases in China overall decreased (96.88–59.27 cases per 100 000) significantly during the most recent years. The decline during this period ranged from −3.9% (95% CI −5.7 to −2.9) in the western region to −4.3% (95% CI −4.8 to −3.7) in the eastern region. Most provinces had significant declines in newly notified and smear-positive cases, whereas the decline of newly smear-positive cases in Xinjiang was about half of that observed during the same period in China overall (−4.1% vs −9.9%). In addition to disparities in annual percentage changes, the rate of newly notified cases was higher in the western region than in the eastern and central regions. Conclusions: The burden of tuberculosis has been on declining throughout China during recent years, but tuberculosis in western China continues to be a public health emergency that needs to be urgently addressed. Effective prevention and control strategies are needed for regions with high disease burdens and those with increasing or unchanging numbers of newly notified and smear-positive cases of tuberculosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphite-based metal transition-layer substrates hold great potential for preparing large-area diamond films and achieving crack-free release. In this study, a five-inch crack-free free-standing diamond film was prepared on a graphite substrate with a sacrificial Mo/Ti double-layer transition layer using direct-current arc plasma jet chemical vapor deposition (DC jet CVD). The interfacial bonding and diffusion behavior between the diamond and the transition layers were investigated. The effect of abundant metal particles and elemental diffusion between layers on film adhesion and stress release are discussed and analyzed. The surface of Ti layer prepared by the multi-arc ion-plating contains numerous metal particles that provide a template for the fine-crystalline Mo layer. Metal particles are encapsulated and embedded in the diamond and act as anchors that ensure the stability of the substrate–diamond bond during high-temperature deposition. After deposition, those metal particles act as weak points and play crucial stress-release roles. Mutual elemental diffusion occurs between the Ti, Mo, and diamond layers. Ti penetrates the Mo layer to form a continuous 140-nm-thick thin layer during the initial deposition period, facilitating diamond nucleation. Carbon from the plasma and diamond diffuses into the metal transition layer. Thermal stress generated between the diamond and the graphite substrate is released by destroying the metal transition layer with high thermal expansion coefficient and low elastic modulus during cooling from the deposition temperature. Cracks rapidly propagate along the interface between destroyable transition layers and graphite substrate, which results in the liftoff of a fully crack-free diamond film. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on the host responses to respiratory viruses could help develop effective interventions and therapies against the current and future pandemics from the host perspective. To explore the pathogenesis that distinguishes SARS-CoV-2 infections from other respiratory viruses, we performed a multi-cohort analysis with integrated bioinformatics and machine learning. We collected 3730 blood samples from both asymptomatic and symptomatic individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2, seasonal human coronavirus (sHCoVs), influenza virus (IFV), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), or human rhinovirus (HRV) across 15 cohorts. First, we identified an enhanced cellular immune response but limited interferon activities in SARS-CoV-2 infection, especially in asymptomatic cases. Second, we identified a SARS-CoV-2-specific 3-gene signature (CLSPN, RBBP6, CCDC91) that was predominantly expressed by T cells, could distinguish SARS-CoV-2 infection, including Omicron, from other common respiratory viruses regardless of symptoms, and was predictive of SARS-CoV-2 infection before detectable viral RNA on RT-PCR testing in a longitude follow-up study. Thereafter, a user-friendly online tool, based on datasets collected here, was developed for querying a gene of interest across multiple viral infections. Our results not only identify a unique host response to the viral pathogenesis in SARS-CoV-2 but also provide insights into developing effective tools against viral pandemics from the host perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A meta-analysis of conservative treatment of DIE with DNG drugs. • DNG can effectively relieve the pain symptoms related to DIE without resorting to surgical treatment. • DNG showed significantly reducing the size of the lesions when used in the conservative treatment of DIE. To systematically review and conduct a meta-analysis to assess the effectiveness of dienogest (DNG) in the prolonged conservative drug management of deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE). The findings from this study are intended to serve as a valuable reference for clinical decision-making regarding medication in the context of DIE. Following the PRISMA Statement, we searched EMBASE, PubMed, The Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Medline databases for relevant literature published in the public domain from the date of establishment of the database until October 2023. Subsequently, all English publications on clinical studies using DNG for the treatment of DIE were included. Studies involving surgical intervention or drug therapy for postoperative recurrence were excluded. All literature included in the review underwent risk assessment of bias. Two evaluators independently screened the publications, conducted a quality assessment of each article and extracted data. We used Revman 5.4 for the meta-analysis of the included literature. Our final analysis consisted of five clinical studies, involving a total of 256 patients. We found that there were significant improvements in the following indicators post-medication as compared to levels before taking the medication: dysmenorrhea (MD = 4.24, 95 % CI: 2.92–5.56, P < 0.00001), non-menstrual pelvic pain (MD = 3.11, 95 % CI: 2.34–3.88, P < 0.00001), dyspareunia (MD = 1.93, 95 % CI: 1.50–2.37, P < 0.00001), dyschezia (MD = 2.48, 95 % CI: 1.83–3.12, P < 0.00001), and rectosigmoid nodule size (MD = 0.32, 95 % CI: 0.18–0.46, P < 0.00001). Compared with pre-medication levels, the following indicators were significantly worse: headache (RR = 0.03, 95 % CI: 0.00–0.23, P = 0.0006), decreased libido (RR = 0.08, 95 % CI: 0.01–0.62, P = 0.02); and there was no significant improvement in dysuria (P > 0.05). DNG showed efficacy in relieving pain-related symptoms and significantly reducing the size of the lesions when used in the drug conservative treatment of DIE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we examine whether tourists ascribe value priorities to destinations in a way that is consistent with the structure of the Schwartz theory of human values. In study 1, we test a new measure of destination values to elicit tourists' perceptions of the values of a recent memorable holiday destination and whether these values reflect their holiday experiences. In study 2, we use the same measure to elicit tourists' perceptions of four popular international destinations (London, New York, Paris, and Bangkok) and examine whether person–destination values congruence influences visit intentions. Across both studies we show that tourists' perceptions of a destination's values share a common structure consistent with values theory, but they differ widely in the value priorities they ascribe to destinations. We also found that destination values reflect tourist's value-expressive holiday experiences and that self-congruity was associated with intentions to visit a destination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to explore the clinical efficacy and safety of different methods of calcium supplementation in osteoporosis (OP). Patients with OP were divided into four groups, including the control, oral calcium supplementation, intravenous calcium supplementation and combined calcium supplementation groups. The duration of the calcium supplementation was 3–6 years. Medical records were collected and examined along with demographic data, the incidence of certain diseases and adverse reactions. All subjects in the three treatment groups exhibited statistically significant reductions in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels, visual analog score (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) compared with the respective pre-treatment values. Furthermore, compared with prior to treatment, the lumbar and hip bone mineral density (BMD) of patients receiving intravenous calcium supplementation was significantly increased. In addition, after treatment, the lumbar and hip BMD was significantly increased, whereas ALP levels, VAS and ODI were significantly decreased in the oral calcium supplementation group compared with the control group. Also, compared with the control and oral calcium supplementation groups, the BMD was significantly increased, whereas ALP, VAS, ODI, the rate of infection and tooth loss, the incidence of fragility fractures, joint replacement surgery, arrhythmia, lumbar disc herniation and cerebral infarction were significantly decreased in the two groups treated with intravenous calcium supplementation. The results of the present study may enable a better understanding of the effectiveness and safety of the different methods for supplementing calcium in OP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is important to ascertain platelet responses to blood-contacting medical devices as part of a complete hemocompatibility evaluation. Nevertheless, researchers often face the problem of insufficient quantities of human blood for evaluation of platelet activation by actual medical devices. If animal blood can replace human blood to evaluate platelet activation by medical devices, testing will be smoother and will aid for quality control of related products. Therefore, in this study, we exposed representative biomaterials to human blood, rabbit blood and mouse blood, and evaluated similarities and differences in platelet activation among the three types of blood by measuring various molecular markers. We found that rabbit blood and human blood had considerable similarity in terms of platelet activation, while mouse blood and human blood showed considerable differences. Therefore, rabbit blood may replace human blood for platelet function testing. • Rabbit and human blood have substantially similarities in platelet activation. • Rabbit blood may replace human blood for platelet function testing in vitro. • Animal blood may be the substitute of human blood in evaluation of medical devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared with solid solution (SS) Hf0.5Zr0.5O2, HfO2–ZrO2 superlattice (SL) ferroelectric films exhibit enhanced endurance and reduced leakage. However, so far, the underlying physical mechanism is still missing. In this work, first-principle calculations reveal that the superior reliability arises from the precise control in the spatial profile of oxygen vacancy with the stacked structure in SL in which oxygen vacancies (Vo) exhibit different formation energies and different energy profiles in Zr- and Hf-layers. However, Vo have the tendency to migrate and its suppression become critical to maintain the superiority of SL. A low annealing temperature is, therefore, suggested and validated with our fabricated SL- and SS-ferroelectric films with different annealing temperatures. This understanding can pave ways for the optimization in SL ferroelectric films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the extensive research on HfO2-based thin films, the ferroelectric orthorhombic phase formation remains unclear. This work proposes a physical picture throughout the entire annealing process to describe the phase transition. Subsequently, the phase evolution at various doping and annealing temperatures is illustrated based on a kinetic model formalized from the classical nucleation theory. It is found that the formation of the ferroelectric orthorhombic phase depends not only on a modest doping concentration but also on the thermal activation of the t-to-o phase transition provided by a sufficient annealing temperature. In addition, phase transition rates correlated to the monoclinic phase formation are effectively suppressed by doping. The exploration of combined effects of annealing parameters indicates a more decisive role of the annealing temperature rather than the keeping time for induced ferroelectricity, and the doping impact becomes significant when a critical annealing temperature is reached. This work provides an understanding for exploring the kinetic effect on the phase transition in HfO2-based thin films, which helps improve ferroelectricity in doped HfO2 ferroelectric films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The associations between thoracic cage dimension, chest subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) depth and outcomes of adults with in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) remain unknown.Methods: We retrospectively evaluated IHCA patients between January 2016 and October 2017. The thoracic cage transverse diameter, internal AP diameter, cross-sectional area, anterior and posterior SAT depths were measured in computed-tomography (CT) images. Using logistic regression models, we determined the adjusted associations between thoracic cage dimension, SAT depths and the prognosis for IHCA. The primary outcome was sustained return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) and the secondary outcome was survival to hospital discharge.Results: Among 423 IHCA patients, 258 patients achieved ROSC and 70 survived to discharge. Smaller cross-sectional area and posterior SAT depth were significantly related to ROSC. Smaller posterior SAT depth was associated with ROSC. After multivariate adjustment, the smaller cross-sectional area was independently associated with ROSC (Odds ratio [OR] 0.99, 95% confidence interval [95%CI] 0.99-1.00; p = 0.008) and survival to discharge (OR 0.99, 95%CI 0.98-1.00; p = 0.024), and the smaller posterior SAT depth was independently related to ROSC (OR 0.65, 95%CI 0.44-0.96; p = 0.030), whereas no relation to survival to discharge was found.Conclusions: In adults with IHCA, the smaller thoracic cage dimension and posterior SAT depth are associated with better survival. An adjustable compression depth based on the thoracic cage dimension might be better than the "one-size-fits-all" compression depth for resuscitating CA patients. In addition, physicians should pay extra attention to compression efficacy when resuscitating obese patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess associations between different types of electronic devices, myopic refraction and ocular biometric parameters in children aged 6–14 years in urban areas of Tianjin, China. Methods: A school‐based, cross‐sectional study was performed on 566 children (302 boys and 264 girls). The children underwent a comprehensive eye examination, including cycloplegic autorefraction and ocular biometry. The children's parents completed a detailed questionnaire that included each child's demographics, the use of electronic devices and other related risk factors. Results: Myopia was not associated with time spent using various electronic devices. However, the mean spherical equivalent refraction (SER) decreased by 0.28 D (p = 0.042) and 0.33 D (p = 0.018) for each 1‐h increase in the time spent using smart phones and computers, respectively. In the multiple linear regression analyses of factors associated with the SER, the standardised coefficient B for time spent reading and writing was approximately four to five times larger than the standardised coefficient for time spent using smart phones or computers. Time spent using tablets and watching television was not significantly associated with the SER. A longer axial length (AL) was associated with more time spent using smart phones (B = 0.23, p = 0.006) and computers (B = 0.26, p = 0.002) but not using tablets (p = 0.45) and watching television (p = 0.45). No significant association was found between other ocular biometric parameters and time spent using various electronic devices. Conclusions: On average, a more myopic SER and longer AL were both associated with more time spent using smart phones and computers, but not with time spent using tablets and watching television. The magnitude of the association between SER and time spent reading and writing was a substantially larger than that for smart phone or computer use. Different types of electronic devices had differing levels of association with myopic refraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Syncope is a perplexing challenge that often receives thorough evaluation, yet the diagnosis remains unclear. Usually, the emergency department is the first point at which patients present with syncope. However, diverse medical factors, including low diagnostic rates and inconsistent management by doctors, add to healthcare costs and delay diagnosis for syncope patients. Methods: Patients who had been to the emergency department at least once but were not given a clear diagnosis of syncope were recruited into our study at the time they visited syncope clinic staffed by a multidisciplinary team. Complete medical histories and clinical examinations were conducted by both experienced cardiologists and neurologists. If patients were not given a conclusive diagnosis at the syncope clinic on the basis of outpatient examinations, they were admitted for further evaluation. Results: A total of 209 consecutive patients claiming "syncope" visited the syncope clinic, yet only 167 patients were formally diagnosed with syncope. For these 167 patients, the mean age was 55.93 ± 17.40 years old, and 41.3% were male. The proportions of cardiac syncope, reflex syncope, orthostatic hypotension (OH), and syncope of uncertain etiology were 19.8%, 64.1%, 7.8%, and 8.4%, respectively. The diagnostic rate was 91.6%, and the hospitalization rate was 23.4%. Patients with reflex syncope and OH were younger than patients with cardiac syncope. Cardiac syncope tends to occur more frequently in males, while reflex syncope is more likely in females. Conclusions: The cooperation of professional cardiologists and neurologists will play an important role in improving diagnostic rates, lowering admission rates, and reducing medical costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• H7N9 virus spread into Chongqing most likely between late 2016 and early 2017 and resulted in human infections in months. • The most impacted premises and population in the epidemic were LPMs and poultry related workers respectively. • H7N9 virus has probably established in Chongqing posing a long-term threat to public health and local poultry industry. • Preventive measures should focus on rigorous management for LPMs and decreasing the exposure risk to poultry for humans. Influenza A(H7N9) virus has emerged and resulted in human infections in Chongqing, southwestern China since 2017. This study aimed to describe the epidemiological characteristics of the first epidemic in this region. The epidemiological data of patients were collected. Live poultry markets (LPMs), commercial poultry farms (CPFs) and backyard poultry farms (BPFs) were monitored, and poultry sources were registered. Samples derived from the patients, their close contacts, and the environments were tested for influenza A(H7N9) virus by real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Genetic sequencing and phylogenetic analysis were also conducted. Since the confirmation of the first patient infected with influenza A(H7N9) virus on March 5, 2017, nine patients had been identified within four months in Chongqing. Their mean age was 45 years, 77.8% were male, 66.7% were urban residents and 55.6% were of poultry related occupation. All patients became infected after exposure to live chickens. The median time interval from initial detection of influenza A(H7N9) virus in Chongqing to the patients' onset was 75 days. Since initial detection in February 2017, influenza A(H7N9) virus was detected in 21 (53.8%) counties within four months. The proportion of positive samples was 2.94% (337/11,451) from February 2017 to May 2018, and was higher (χ2 = 75.78, P < 0.001) in LPMs (3.66%, 329/8979) than that in CPFs (0.41%, 5/1229) and BPFs (0.24%, 3/1243). The proportion of positive samples (34.4%, 22/64) at the premises to which the patients were exposed was significantly higher than that (5.7%, 257/4474) in premises with no patients. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the viruses isolated in Chongqing belonged to the Yangtze River Delta lineage and resembled those circulated in Jiangsu and Anhui provinces between late 2016 and early 2017. Influenza A(H7N9) virus was newly introduced into Chongqing most likely between late 2016 and early 2017, which swept across half of Chongqing territory and resulted in human infections within months. The most impacted premises and population were LPMs and poultry related workers respectively in the epidemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endocrine fibroblast growth factors (eFGFs) control pathways that are crucial for maintaining metabolic homeostasis of lipids, glucose, energy, bile acids, and minerals. Unlike the heparin-binding paracrine FGFs, eFGFs require a unique Klotho family protein to form a productive triad complex, but the structural and mechanistical details of this complex have remained obscure since the beginning of the eFGF field. However, recent breakthroughs in resolving the 3D structures of eFGF signaling complexes have now unveiled the atomic details of multivalent interactions among eFGF, FGFR, and Klotho. We provide here a timely review on the architecture and the structure–function relationships of these complexes, and highlight how the structural knowledge opens a new door to structure-based drug design against a repertoire of eFGF-associated metabolic diseases. Highlights eFGFs are key regulators of metabolic homeostasis of lipids, glucose, energy, bile acids, and minerals. Alterations in the components of eFGF signaling complex underlie a myriad of metabolic diseases. The recently resolved crystal structures of eFGF signaling complexes open a new door for structure-based drug design. Klotho (or betaKlotho), through its pseudo-catalytic pocket and receptor-binding arm, serves as a scaffold to tether eFGF to FGFR. With an FDA-approved FGF23-based drug in the market, several other eFGF analogs and FGFR–KL/KLB agonists are on the horizon for various metabolic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate and controlled release of drug molecules is crucial for transdermal drug delivery. Electricity, as an adjustable parameter, offers the potential for precise and controllable drug delivery. However, challenges exist in selecting the appropriate drug carrier, electrical parameters, and release model to achieve controlled electronic drug release. To overcome these challenges, this study designed a functional hydrogel using polyvinyl alcohol, chitosan, and graphene oxide as components that can conduct electricity, and constructed a drug transdermal release model using fluorescein sodium salt with proper electrical parameters. The results demonstrated that the hydrogel system exhibited low cytotoxicity, good conductivity, and desirable drug delivery characteristics. The study also integrated the effects of drug release and tissue repair promotion under electrical stimulation. Cell growth was enhanced under low voltage direct current pulses, promoting cell migration and the release of VEGF and FGF. Furthermore, the permeability of fluorescein sodium salt in the hydrogel increased with direct current stimulation. These findings suggest that the carbohydrate polymers hydrogel could serve as a drug carrier for controlled release, and electrical stimulation offers new possibilities for functional drug delivery and transdermal therapy. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is an abnormal connection between the trachea and esophagus that severely impairs quality of life. Current treatment options have limitations, including conservative treatment, surgical repair, and esophageal stent implantation. Here, we introduced laponite (LP) nano-clay to improve chitosan-based hydrogels' rheological properties and mechanical properties and developed an endoscopically injectable nanocomposite shear-thinning hydrogel to seal and repair fistulas as an innovative material for the treatment of TEF. Excellent injectability, rheological properties, mechanical strength, self-healing, biodegradability, biocompatibility, and tissue repair characterize the new hydrogel. The introduction of LP nano-clay improves the gel kinetics problem of hydrogels to realize the sol–gel transition immediately after injection, avoiding gel flow to non-target sites. The addition of LA nano-clay can significantly improve the rheological properties and mechanical strength of hydrogels, and hydrogel with LP content of 3 % shows better comprehensive performance. The nanocomposite hydrogel also shows good cytocompatibility and can promote wound repair by promoting the migration of HEEC cells and the secretion of VEGF and FGF. These findings suggest that this nanocomposite hydrogel is a promising biomaterial for TEF treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Contrasting saturated hydraulic conductivity led to soil stratification at 30–50 cm. • Soil moisture was more correlated within layers above and below the interface. • Above the interface, preferential flow and soil moisture dynamics were more active. • Threshold was identified in runoff generation, controlled by soil moisture storage. Soil moisture is essential in runoff generation, chemical transport, vegetation growth, and geological hazards like landslides in mountainous regions. However, due to its difficulty of measurement and its significant spatial heterogeneity and temporal variability, the dynamics and influence of soil moisture in the rainfall-runoff process are still not fully understood. In this study, precipitation, runoff, and soil moisture at multiple depths were measured and analyzed in a small, post-seismic mountainous catchment. Our results suggest that the dynamics of soil moisture could be explained by the characteristics of soil. The drastic change and the anisotropy of saturated hydraulic connectivity in the upper soil of the loose deposits in our catchment would lead to soil stratification at depths between 30 cm and 50 cm. The temporal variability of soil moisture was more highly correlated within the soil layers above and beneath the interface. Above the interface, besides vertical infiltration, occurrences of preferential flow were also frequent, transient perched water table may emerge during the wet period, making it a more active runoff contributor than the soil layers below the interface. When the level of rainfall reached the threshold, the correlation between rainfall and runoff became linear. This threshold response was more significant at soil layers above the interface, especially at the site with large topographic gradient. High antecedent soil moisture could skew the partitioning of precipitation into discharge, leading to an earlier flow peak. Our findings provide guidance on observation spot selection and the soil properties needed for the interpretation of future measurements, and may help develop flood early warnings system in small ungauged mountainous catchments with high flood risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • 3a and 3c are screened out from five D-A type dicyanoisophorone derivatives, which show high selectivity towards H 2 O 2. • 3a and 3c express colorimetric and fluorescent dual-signals towards H 2 O 2 with low detection limits (0.20 μM and 0.14 μM). • 3a and 3c are capable of H 2 O 2 detection in milk samples. • Low cytotoxicity allows 3a to be utilized as a H 2 O 2 fluorescence sensor in living HepG-2 cells and zebrafish. • A smartphone-based analysis method is utilized for the rapid quantitative detection of H 2 O 2 by 3c. Excessive residual hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2) disinfectant in food is harmful to human health. Therefore, it is necessary to develop efficient detection methods for H 2 O 2 detection. In this work, we designed and synthesized five D-A molecules 3a - 3e by introducing electron-donor substituents (–OCH 3 and –CH 3) to the electron-acceptor dicyanoisophorone skeleton in order to find out the suitable probes for H 2 O 2 detection. Among them, two promising probes, 3a and 3c , are screened out according to structure-property relationships. Based on the principle of intramolecular charge transfer (ICT), 3a and 3c express colorimetric and fluorescent dual-signals towards H 2 O 2 with low detection limits (0.20 μM and 0.14 μM) and rapid response (within 20 mins). The reaction mechanism between probes and H 2 O 2 is determined by 1H NMR and HRMS. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations are measured to study the regulation mechanism of structure adjustment on probs performance. Furthermore, a smartphone RGB analysis is utilized as a portable platform for the quantitative detection of H 2 O 2 without complicated instruments, indicating a high efficiency and on-site detection method for H 2 O 2. In addition, probes are applied to detect H 2 O 2 in milk samples, HepG-2 cells and zebrafish, suggesting the promising applications in food samples and physiological systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Cu-Ce-S catalyst was prepared using a simple one step method. • Sulfation endowed catalyst with more fast adsorption rate and capacity of NH 3. • Cu2+ doping promoted the decomposition of ammonia salts and avoided the poisoning of Ce4+ caused by interaction with SO 4 2−. • Both the redox circles (Cu2+↔ Cu+ and Ce4+↔Ce3+) enhanced SCR activity of Cu-Ce-S. A novel Cu-Ce-S nanocrystal catalyst for SCR of NO x was prepared via a simple one step method using PS as a template and CuSO 4 as both S and Cu sources. Cu-Ce-S exhibited excellent SCR activity, N 2 selectivity and tolerance to H 2 O and SO 2 , the NO x conversion for 3% Cu-Ce-S only decreased by 3% while the CeO 2 decreased by 64% in the presence of H 2 O and SO 2. Results of XRD, XPS, DRIFTS and TG showed that the Cu2+ were replaced a part of Ce4+ and dissolved in CeO 2 lattice, which tended to link with the SO 4 2−group in SCR process to effectively avoid poisoning of Ce4+ active sites. The circles of Cu2+ + e → Cu+ and Ce3+ - e → Ce4+ promoted the catalyst activity. The study of decomposition behavior of deposition species on catalyst surface under low operation temperature indicated that Cu2+ doping and sulfation could inhibit the formation of ammonium sulfate or bisulfate and promote their decomposition to relieve the catalyst inactivation caused by the block of active sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Severe infection is a primary cause of mortality in children facing challenges from multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens, particularly MDR Acinetobacter baumannii. Tigecycline has an expanded spectrum of antibacterial activity, and some successful instances of its use in children have been reported. We conducted a retrospective chart review of children treated at a tertiary hospital between May 1, 2012 and May 1, 2017 to examine the efficacy and safety of tigecycline in children with severe infection. A total of 110 patients (69 males) were enrolled in this study, including 46 MDR A. baumannii infection patients, encompassing 51 A. baumannii strains. Totally, the median duration of tigecycline therapy was 10 days (range, 2-47 days), with a clinical improvement rate of 47.27% (52/110). In A. baumannii infection group, the clinical improvement rate was 50% (23/46) and the microbiology eradication rate was 50.98% (26/51). No adverse events were reported during therapy; however, in one case, a 9-year-old boy with hematologic disease developed tooth discoloration.Conclusion: Although some patients benefited from tigecycline, the efficacy and safety of tigecycline should not be overvalued. Additional data from randomized controlled trials are required to assess the administration of tigecycline. What is Known: • Severe infection is a primary cause of mortality in pediatric patients and its treatment is facing challenges from an increasing number of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens. • Tigecycline has an expanded spectrum of antibacterial activity. • Several case reports have indicated that tigecycline could be used as a salvage therapy in children when options are limited or non-existent. What is New: • We found that rate of clinical improvement was different in various groups of different infection. The efficacy of tigecycline should not be overvalued. • Six dosage models and different infection types were observed in our series, with different improvement and eradication rate, indicating that more data are required to identify a proper tigecycline dosage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing evidence has revealed that genetic variants in Reelin (RELN) gene, especially single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), correlate with autistic spectrum disorders (ASD) risk; however, no consensus have been reached. This study aimed to provide additional evidence for the association between two SNPs of RELN (i.e., rs736707, rs2229864) and ASD risk, as well as the relationship between RELN gene and symptom-based and developmental deficits of ASD patients in Chinese Han children and adolescents. 157 ASD subjects and 256 typical development (TD) controls were genotyped by TaqMan® genotyping assay. ASD patients were assessed by Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC), and Early Childhood Development Questionnaire (ECDQ). We found that SNP rs2229864 was associated with the genetic predisposition of ASD, whereas a negative association between SNP rs2229864 and symptom-based and developmental features was detected. In contrast, RELN rs736707 correlated with the sensory subscale of the ABC, the relating subscale of the ABC and the total score of ABC, although we did not detect a significant association between SNP rs736707 and ASD risk. Furthermore, a significant rs736707–rs2229864 haplotype was detected. Individuals with a CC haplotype were more likely to have ASD, but individuals with a CT haplotype had more chance be TD controls. Further studies using more samples and including more gene variants in RELN are warranted to confirm our results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases are essential components in protein biosynthesis. Arginyl-tRNA synthetase (ArgRS) belongs to the small group of aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases requiring cognate tRNA for amino acid activation. The crystal structure of Escherichia coli ( Eco ) ArgRS has been solved in complex with tRNA Arg at 3.0-Å resolution. With this first bacterial tRNA complex, we are attempting to bridge the gap existing in structure–function understanding in prokaryotic tRNA Arg recognition. The structure shows a tight binding of tRNA on the synthetase through the identity determinant A20 from the D-loop, a tRNA recognition snapshot never elucidated structurally. This interaction of A20 involves 5 amino acids from the synthetase. Additional contacts via U20a and U16 from the D-loop reinforce the interaction. The importance of D-loop recognition in Eco ArgRS functioning is supported by a mutagenesis analysis of critical amino acids that anchor tRNA Arg on the synthetase; in particular, mutations at amino acids interacting with A20 affect binding affinity to the tRNA and specificity of arginylation. Altogether the structural and functional data indicate that the unprecedented ArgRS crystal structure represents a snapshot during functioning and suggest that the recognition of the D-loop by ArgRS is an important trigger that anchors tRNA Arg on the synthetase. In this process, A20 plays a major role, together with prominent conformational changes in several ArgRS domains that may eventually lead to the mature ArgRS:tRNA complex and the arginine activation. Functional implications that could be idiosyncratic to the arginine identity of bacterial ArgRSs are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smelters, metal refineries and mining operations have all been considered as major sources of metal release into the environment. As a highly toxic and cumulative poison, once in the environment Pb is difficult to remove and can adversely affect human health. Mirabilis jalapa Linn. (The Marvel of Peru) is a fast growing plant that shows potential for phytostabilization of Pb contaminated soils. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrometry was adopted to detect physiological changes in the chemical composition of M. jalapa exposed to six different concentrations of Pb in solution (0, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000 μmol L −1 Pb). Results indicated that biomass was reduced in plants grown in Pb treatments compared to controls, although M. jalapa grew typically well at the greatest concentration, 1000 μmol L −1 . The concentration of Pb in plant tissues occurred in the order roots > leaves > stems, with a translocation factor of less than 0.04. The absorbance of dominating bands near 3420, 2920, 1610 and 1060 cm −1 firstly increased but then declined in root tissues; the bands respectively corresponding to organic acids, carbohydrate, protein and amino acids. However, no obvious changes were observed in leaves and stems. The results suggest that M. jalapa can reduce transportation of Pb from roots to shoots, subsequently preventing Pb toxicity in shoots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Iron‐substituted CoOOH porous nanosheet arrays grown on carbon fiber cloth (denoted as FexCo1−xOOH PNSAs/CFC, 0≤x≤0.33) with 3D hierarchical structures are synthesized by in situ anodic oxidation of α‐Co(OH)2 NSAs/CFC in solution of 0.01  m (NH4)2Fe(SO4)2. X‐ray absorption fine spectra (XAFS) demonstrate that CoO6 octahedral structure in CoOOH can be partially substituted by FeO6 octahedrons during the transformation from α‐Co(OH)2 to FexCo1−xOOH, and this is confirmed for the first time in this study. The content of Fe in FexCo1−xOOH, no more than 1/3 of Co, can be controlled by adjusting the in situ anodic oxidation time. Fe0.33Co0.67OOH PNSAs/CFC shows superior OER electrocatalytic performance, with a low overpotential of 266 mV at 10 mA cm−2, small Tafel slope of 30 mV dec−1, and high durability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Iron‐substituted CoOOH porous nanosheet arrays grown on carbon fiber cloth (denoted as FexCo1−xOOH PNSAs/CFC, 0≤x≤0.33) with 3D hierarchical structures are synthesized by in situ anodic oxidation of α‐Co(OH)2 NSAs/CFC in solution of 0.01  m (NH4)2Fe(SO4)2. X‐ray absorption fine spectra (XAFS) demonstrate that CoO6 octahedral structure in CoOOH can be partially substituted by FeO6 octahedrons during the transformation from α‐Co(OH)2 to FexCo1−xOOH, and this is confirmed for the first time in this study. The content of Fe in FexCo1−xOOH, no more than 1/3 of Co, can be controlled by adjusting the in situ anodic oxidation time. Fe0.33Co0.67OOH PNSAs/CFC shows superior OER electrocatalytic performance, with a low overpotential of 266 mV at 10 mA cm−2, small Tafel slope of 30 mV dec−1, and high durability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

FGF21 is a master regulator of homeostasis of local and systemic lipid, glucose and energy metabolism. Since its discovery a decade ago, significant progress has been made in understanding the basic molecular, cellular and physiological mechanisms underlying its metabolic roles, and characterizing its beneficial pharmacological activities and possible pathological roles in obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemia, fatty liver disease and their collateral complications and tissue damage. Under basal or normal conditions, FGF21 appears to play a dispensable role in metabolism. However, in response to a variety of cellular and metabolic stress, FGF21 is significantly upregulated to serve as a potent catabolic factor leading to the clearance of excessive lipids and glucose, and therefore, antagonizes metabolic and energy imbalance in a negative fashion. Furthermore, FGF21 treatment ameliorates tissue damage resulted from the harmful effects of metabolic abnormalities, which often ensue an oxidative, pro-inflammatory, inflammatory and/or immune stress state, the so-called metaflammation. Most notably, studies focusing on the liver, pancreas, cardio-vasculature and kidney have revealed its significant protective effects against the structural and functional damages induced by the obese, diabetic or other abnormal metabolic conditions. In this review, we will summarize the current progress on the roles of FGF21 against metaflammation and metabolic tissue damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To first induce chronic deep venous thrombosis in the left iliac veins of canines and porcines and then compare these two models to validate endovascular treatment devices. Methods: Thrombin and fibrinogen were used to produce a solid thrombus in the left iliac veins of a stenosis model. The researchers used venous angiography and histological staining to investigate the progression of thrombosis. Results: A left iliac vein thrombus was successfully formed in all experimental animals, including six Labrador dogs and three Bama miniature pigs, and there was minimal surgical bleeding. All dogs survived until 90 days, and three pigs died on Days 29, 33, and 58. Conclusion: The researchers first established the models and then observed the progression of chronic deep venous thrombosis of the iliac vein in large animals for up to 90 days. Dogs are better suited for chronic deep venous thrombosis models due to their uncomplicated anatomy, excellent obedience, and proneness to physical activity compared with pigs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the advent of COVID-19 vaccine, the long-term monitoring and evaluation of vaccine effectiveness worldwide has never stopped. Real-world research of the mainstream vaccines in China (BBIBP-CorV and CoronaVac) is extremely valuable as a supplement to clinical research data. Venous blood of this study was collected from 111 blood donors and from 6 volunteers, who had received 2 doses of SAR-CoV-2 vaccine. Cross-sectional study and cohort study was adopted. Venous blood of 11 COVID-19 convalescent plasma donors was collected as a positive control. The seroconversion rate of neutralizing antibodies in 111 vaccine recipients was 90.99% (101/111); The level of SAR-CoV-2 antibodies peaked around 28 days after inoculation, then fast descended followed by gentle descended until it was still detectable around 280 days later. The changes in antibody levels were similar to those of the 6 participants and those of convalescent plasma donors after infection. 5 of the 6 participants still maintained a high level of neutralizing antibodies (> 60% of the peak value) around 28 days after receiving 2 doses of vaccine; one participant had an antibody reaction that was almost always negative for 4 weeks. BBIBP-CorV and CoronaVac can produce good immune effects in most vaccinators aged 20 to 59 years in Nanjing area. Nevertheless, significant individual discrepancies of the humoral immunity are still existed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the causes of flood seasonality is critical for better flood management. This study examines the seasonality of annual maximum floods (AMF) and its changes before and after 1980 at over 250 natural catchments across the contiguous United States. Using circular statistics to define a seasonality index, the analysis focuses on the variability of the flood occurrence date. Generally, catchments with more synchronized seasonal water and energy cycles largely inherit their seasonality of AMF from that of annual maximum rainfall (AMR). In contrast, the seasonality of AMF in catchments with loosely synchronized water and energy cycles are more influenced by high antecedent storage, which is responsible for the amplification of the seasonality of AMF over that of AMR. This understanding then effectively explains a statistically significant shift of flood seasonality detected in some catchments in the recent decades. Catchments where the antecedent soil water storage has increased since 1980 exhibit increasing flood seasonality while catchments that have experienced increases in storm rainfall before the floods have shifted toward floods occurring more variably across the seasons. In the eastern catchments, a concurrent widespread increase in event rainfall magnitude and reduced soil water storage have led to a more variable timing of floods. The findings of the role of antecedent storage and event rainfall on the flood seasonality provide useful insights for understanding future changes in flood seasonality as climate models projected changes in extreme precipitation and aridity over land. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), an inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase, is a novel risk factor of cardiovascular disease. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) bear typical endothelial characteristics and are thought to contribute to neovascularization by providing new endothelial cells (ECs) after arterial injury. Many studies have shown that ADMA can induce EPC apoptosis and dysfunction, but the underlying mechanism is not well understood. EPCs from umbilical cord blood were cultured in EGM-2 medium with particular growth factors and supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum. The cells were treated with different concentrations of ADMA (5, 10, and 50 μmol/L). Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress marker levels were examined by western blot analysis. After 24-hour incubation, ADMA induced apoptosis of EPCs and significantly decreased the proliferation, migration, and vasculogenesis capacity of EPCs. We also found that ADMA treatment activated phosphorylated protein kinase RNA-activated-like ER kinase (PERK), a stress sensor protein in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The activated PERK induced 78 kDa glucose-regulated protein (GRP-78) and C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) expression. Additionally, the inhibition of the ER stress pathway by Salubrinal (a specific ER stress inhibitor) can attenuate ADMA-induced apoptosis of EPCs. Overall, these observations indicate that ADMA may induce the apoptosis and dysfunction of EPCs through the ER stress pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent research has shown that the Schwartz circular structure of values exists at the intra-individual level within adults. We extend this work by testing whether this structure also exists within children. We analysed responses from 748 Australian children (5 to 12 year-olds). We show, for the first time, that the circular structure of values exists within children as young as five. There is some evidence of greater differentiation with age. Further, we show that girls and boys share the same structure, but differ in their values priorities. Boys were generally located closer to self-enhancement and openness to change values, whereas girls were generally located closer to self-transcendence and conservation values. These results are discussed in light of the developmental literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The incidence of biliary complications after living donor adult liver transplantation (LDALT) is still high due to the bile duct variation and necessity reconstruction of multiple small bile ducts. The current surgical management of the biliary variants is unsatisfactory. We evaluated the role of a new surgical approach in a complicated hilar bile duct variant (Nakamura type IV and Nakamura type II) under emergent right lobe LDALT for high model for end-stage liver disease score patients. Methods The common hepatic duct (CHD) and the left hepatic duct (LHD) of the donor were transected in a right-graft including short common trunks with right posterior and anterior bile ducts, whereas the LHD of the donor was anastomosed to the CHD and the common trunks of a right-graft bile duct and the recipient CHD was end-to-end anastomosed. Results Ten of 13 grafts (Nakamura types II, III, and IV) had two or more biliary orifices after right graft lobectomy; seven patients had biliary complications (53.8%). Later, the surgical innovation was carried out in five donors with variant bile duct (four Nakamura type IV and one type II), and, consequently, no biliary or other complications were observed in donors and recipients during 47–53 months of follow-up; significant differences ( P < 0.05) were found when two stages were compared. Conclusion Our initial experience suggests that, in the urgent condition of LDALT when an alternative live donor was unavailable, a surgical innovation of cutting part of the CHD trunks including variant right hepatic ducts in a complicated donor bile duct variant may facilitate biliary reconstruction and reduce long-term biliary complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycobacteria, which are known as rapidly growing bacteria, are pathogens that are responsible for cutaneous or subcutaneous infections that especially occur after injection, trauma, or surgery. In this report, we describe a species of Mycobacterium abscessus that was isolated from a breast abscess in a patient who was previously diagnosed with granulomatous lobular mastitis (GLM). This current case is the first ever presented case of GLM associated with M. abscessus documented in South China. The case presentation highlights the role of M. abscessus in GLM. The association of M. abscessus and GLM is discussed and a summary of breast infection due to Mycobacteria is given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]