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Magnetic property (e.g. spin order) of support is of great importance in the rational design of heterogeneous catalysts. Herein, we have taken the Ni-supported ferromagnetic (FM) CrBr3 support (Nix/CrBr3) to thoroughly investigate the effect of spin-order on electrocatalytic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) via spin-polarized density functional theory calculations. Specifically, Ni loading induces anti-FM coupling in Ni–Cr, leading to a transition from FM-to-ferrimagnetic (FIM) properties, while Ni–Ni metallic bonds create a robust FM direct exchange, benefiting the improvement of the phase transition temperature. Interestingly, with the increase in Ni loading, the easy magnetic axis changes from out-of-plane (2D-Heisenberg) to in-plane (2D-XY). The adsorption properties of Nix/CrBr3, involving O2 adsorption energy and configuration, are not governed by the d-band center but strongly correlate with magnetic anisotropy. It is noteworthy that the applied potential and electrolyte acidity triggers spin-order transition phenomena during the ORR and induces the catalytic pathway change from 4e− ORR to 2e− ORR with the excellent onset potential of 0.93 V/reversible hydrogen electrode, comparable to the existing most excellent noble-metal catalysts. Generally, these findings offer new avenues to understand and design heterogeneous catalysts with magnetic support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To systematically evaluate the risk factors of conversion to thoracotomy in thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) for lung cancer, and to provide a theoretical basis for the development of personalized surgical plans. Methods: CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, CBM, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Embase databases were searched by computer from the establishment of the database to March 2024. Relevant studies on the risk factors of conversion to thoracotomy in VATS for lung cancer were searched. Two reviewers independently performed literature screening, data extraction, and quality evaluation, and Stata16.0 software was used for data analysis. Results: A total of 14 studies were included in this study, with a total sample size of 10605, and a total of 11 risk factors were obtained. Mate analysis showed that, Age ≥ 65 years old [OR(95%CI) = 2.61(1.67,4.09)], male [OR(95%CI) = 1.46(1.19,1.79)], BMI(Body Mass Index) ≥ 25 [OR(95%CI) = 1.79(1.17,2.74)], tuberculosis history [OR(95%CI) = 7.67(4.25,13.83)], enlarged mediastinal lymph nodes [OR(95%CI) = 2.33(1.50,3.06)], lung door swollen lymph nodes [OR(95%CI) = 6.33(2.07,19.32)], pleural adhesion [OR(95%CI) = 2.50(1.93,3.25)], tumor located in the lung Upper lobe [OR(95%CI) = 4.01(2.87,5.60)], sleeve lobectomy [OR(95%CI) = 3.40(1.43,8.08)], diameter of tumor ≥ 3.5cm [OR(95%CI) = 2.13(1.15,3.95)] associated with lung cancer VATS transit thoracotomy. Conclusions: Age ≥ 65 years old, male, BMI ≥ 25, tuberculosis history, enlarged mediastinal lymph nodes, lung door swollen lymph nodes, pleural adhesion, tumor located in the lung Upper lobe, sleeve lobectomy, diameter of tumor ≥ 3.5cm are risk factors for conversion to thoracotomy during VATS for lung cancer. Clinicians should pay attention to the above factors before VATS to avoid forced conversion due to the above factors during VATS. Due to the number and limitations of the included studies, the above conclusions need to be validated by additional high-quality studies. Trail registration: The protocol was registered into the PROSPERO database under the number CRD42023478648. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-strength aviation gears are notably challenging to grind, primarily due to an increased risk of grinding burn. Consequently, the precise and efficient prediction of the three-dimensional temperature distribution throughout the grinding process of aviation gears is crucial. This study focuses on aviation gear in 12Cr2Ni4A material, devising a dynamic, time-variant triangular heat source model alongside a method for calculating the three-dimensional grinding temperature field for aviation gears. By proposing an accurate loading algorithm for the boundary conditions of the moving heat source load on the spatially curved surface in the grinding area and then directly solving the heat transfer differential equation constructed in a fully discrete form based on the principle of minimum potential and the Ritz method, a high-strength aviation gear grinding temperature field prediction model has been established. The accuracy of this proposed method was confirmed through experimental temperature measurements of gear grinding and by comparing these results with those obtained from standard finite element software. The results show that the maximum relative error between prediction values and experimental data is less than 5%. Moreover, when contrasted with the simulation results of standard finite element software, the present approach exhibits superior computational efficiency and accuracy. The developed numerical method reliably forecasts the temperature distribution throughout the gear grinding process and provides a significant reference for precise and efficient temperature field calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Studies on post-stroke anxiety (PSA) following the lifting of COVID-19 restriction measures are currently lacking. We investigated the factors affecting PSA after full release of COVID-19 epidemic in China. Methods: Patients with stroke admitted to the First People's Hospital of Changde City from March 2023 to September 2023 participated in a questionnaire survey comprising a general demographic questionnaire, the Generalized Anxiety Scale-7. Additionally, data on the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, modified Rankin Scale, C-reactive protein (CRP), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), homocysteine, TOAST classification, and the stroke site were collected, and the correlations between these indices and the mental health conditions of the patients were evaluated. Results: Among 947 patients, the incidence of PSA was 14.57%.PSA was not linked to prior COVID-19 infection. This study found that Sleep duration (P=0.01), hyperlipidemia (P=0.01), migraine (P=0.02), and family history of stroke (P=0.01) were associated with PSA. Conclusions: Our study found that the prevalence of PSA was 14.57%. In addition, sleep duration, hyperlipidemia, migraine and family history of stroke were independent risk factors for PSA following the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of serum glucose-to-potassium ratio (GPR) on cerebrovascular diseases has been previously validated. However, the value of the GPR in patients with severe intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) requiring ICU admission remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the association between the GPR and the clinical prognosis of critically ill patients with ICH. This study identified patients with severe ICH requiring ICU admission from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC-IV) database and divided them into quartiles based on GPR levels. Outcomes included 30-day, 90-day, and 1-year mortality rates. The association between the GPR and clinical outcomes in critically ill patients with ICH was elucidated using Cox proportional hazards regression analysis and restricted cubic splines. In total, 2018 patients (53.8% male), with a median age of 70 years, were enrolled in the study. The 30-day, 90-day, and 1-year mortality rates were 23.9%, 30.1%, and 38.4%, respectively. Per multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis, an elevated GPR was significantly associated with all-cause mortality. After adjusting for age, sex, Charlson Comorbidity Index, white blood cell count, red blood cell count, platelet count, and Glasgow Coma Scale, patients with an elevated GPR had a higher 30-day mortality (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.32; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.22–1.42; P < 0.001), 90-day mortality (HR: 1.27; 95% CI: 1.18–1.37; P < 0.001) and 1-year mortality (HR: 1.22; 95% CI: 1.14–1.31; P < 0.001) when analyzed as a continuous variable. Furthermore, analysis using restricted cubic splines demonstrated a consistent and progressive escalation in the risk of all-cause mortality with an elevated GPR. The GPR was significantly associated with short- and long-term all-cause mortality in critically ill patients with ICH. This finding demonstrates that GPR may be useful in identifying patients with ICH at a high risk of all-cause mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Kidney transplantation (KT) is the best treatment for patients with end-stage renal disease. However, postoperative complications remain the main issues faced during KT recovery period. Posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorders (PTLD) are one of the severe and life-threatening complications that occur after KT while the recipient is undergoing immunosuppressive therapy. PTLD risk factors include Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection, the cumulative degree of immunosuppression, as well as genetic aspects. PTLD is more common in the transplanted organ itself and its surroundings, and the central nervous system, while PTLD involving the pharyngeal soft tissue is relatively rare, with only a few reported case reports. Therefore, systematic experience is scarce regarding whether the treatment or the care. Case presentation: Herein, we report a 41-year-old male, underwent a reproductive KT due to chronic renal insufficiency. Recurrent fever, pharyngeal pain, and bilateral cervical lymph node enlargement were recurred during five years' follow-up after KT surgery. In this inpatient experience, the patient vomited a large amount of blood from the oropharynx, then the tonsil artery was ligated by emergency operation. EBV-associated T/NK cell monomorphic PTLD was eventually diagnosed by blood EBV DNA test, pharyngeal biopsy, and corresponding pathological examination. After six cycles of R-CHOP chemotherapy, the clinical symptoms and laboratory tests changed into normal. Subsequent three years' follow-up shows no tumor recurrence and good transplant kidney function. Conclusion: This rare case report describes a manifestation of PTLD with pharyngeal involvement. Early diagnosis using histopathological examination is crucial to prevent damage to the throat and airway, and even life-threatening conditions. Discontinuing immunosuppression and starting systemic treatment can help in disease regression. Since the low incidence of this disease, limited clinical experience, and limited data, our experience with a smooth recovery through efficacy treatment and nursing can provide a reference for the development of new clinical drugs and diagnostic and treatment plans of patients with PTLD in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a common cause of community-acquired pneumonia in which neutrophils play a critical role. Immune-responsive gene 1 (IRG1), responsible for itaconate production, has emerged as an important regulator of inflammation and infection, but its role during M. pneumoniae infection remains unknown. Here, we reveal that itaconate is an endogenous pro-inflammatory metabolite during M. pneumoniae infection. Irg1 knockout (KO) mice had lower levels of bacterial burden, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and pro-inflammatory cytokines compared with wild-type (WT) controls after M. pneumoniae infection. Neutrophils were the major cells producing itaconate during M. pneumoniae infection in mice. Neutrophil counts were positively correlated with itaconate concentrations in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of patients with severe M. pneumoniae pneumonia. Adoptive transfer of Irg1 KO neutrophils, or administration of β-glucan (an inhibitor of Irg1 expression), significantly attenuated M. pneumoniae pneumonia in mice. Mechanistically, itaconate impaired neutrophil bacterial killing and suppressed neutrophil apoptosis via inhibiting mitochondrial ROS. Moreover, M. pneumoniae induced Irg1 expression by activating NF-κB and STAT1 pathways involving TLR2. Our data thus identify Irg1/itaconate pathway as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of M. pneumoniae pneumonia. Author summary: M. pneumoniae is a common human pathogen that causes community-acquired pneumonia. Neutrophil infiltration has been widely recognized as a characteristic of M. pneumoniae pneumonia; however, the interaction between neutrophils and M. pneumoniae is not completely understood. Here we demonstrate a critical role of the Irg1/itaconate metabolic pathway in neutrophils in the pathogenesis of M. pneumoniae pneumonia. We observe a positive correlation between neutrophil counts and itaconate levels in BALF from patients with severe M. pneumoniae pneumonia. We find that M. pneumoniae infection induces itaconate production in neutrophils, which dampens neutrophil bactericidal activity and impedes neutrophil apoptosis through inhibiting mitochondrial ROS (mtROS). Suppressing neutrophil itaconate production mitigates M. pneumoniae pneumonia in mice. We also find that M. pneumoniae induces Irg1 expression in neutrophils by activating NF-κB and STAT1 signaling pathways. Therefore, our findings suggest that targeting neutrophil itaconate production may be an effective therapeutic strategy for the treatment of M. pneumoniae pneumonia in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several studies have shown a potential relationship between triglyceride-glucose index (TGI) and asthma. However, limited research has been conducted on the relationship between TGI and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO). Methods: A total of 1,910 asthmatic individuals from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database were included in this study. Linear regression analyses were used to investigate the relationship between TGI and FeNO in patients with asthma. Subsequently, a trend test was applied to verify whether there was a linear relationship between the TGI and FeNO. Finally, a subgroup analysis was performed to confirm the relationship among the different subgroup populations. Results: Multivariable linear regression analyses showed that TGI was linearly related to FeNO in the asthmatic population. The trend test additionally validated the positive linear relationship between TGI and FeNO. The result of XGBoost revealed the five most influential factors on FeNO in a ranking of contrasted importance: eosinophil (EOS), body mass index (BMI), poverty-to-income ratio (PIR), TGI, and white blood cell count (WBC). Conclusions: This investigation revealed a positive linear relationship between TGI and FeNO in patients with asthma. This finding suggests a potential relationship between TGI and airway inflammation in patients with asthma, thereby facilitating the prompt identification of irregularities and providing a basis for clinical decision making. This study provides a novel perspective on asthma management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pinelliae Rhizoma is a key ingredient in botanical supplements and is often adulterated by Rhizoma Pinelliae Pedatisectae, which is similar in appearance but less expensive. Accurate identification of these materials is crucial for both scientific and commercial purposes. Traditional morphological identification relies heavily on expert experience and is subjective, while chemical analysis and molecular biological identification are typically time consuming and labor intensive. This study aims to employ a simpler, faster, and non‐invasive image recognition technique to distinguish between these two highly similar plant materials. In the realm of image recognition, we aimed to utilize the vision transformer (ViT) algorithm, a cutting‐edge image recognition technology, to differentiate these materials. All samples were verified using DNA molecular identification before image analysis. The result demonstrates that the ViT algorithm achieves a classification accuracy exceeding 94%, significantly outperforming the convolutional neural network model's 60%–70% accuracy. This highlights the efficiency of this technology in identifying plant materials with similar appearances. This study marks the pioneer work of the ViT algorithm to such a challenging task, showcasing its potential for precise botanical material identification and setting the stage for future advancements in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although the specific relationship between the stress changes in the external fixator during tibial fracture treatment and the bone healing process remains unclear, it is believed that stress variations in the external fixator scaffold can, to a certain extent, reflect the progress of tibial healing. Objective: This study aims to propose a non‐invasive method for assessing the degree of fracture healing by monitoring the changes in stress transmission, the locations of stress‐sensitive points, and displacement in the external fixator‐tibia system during the healing process of tibial fractures. Methods: In this study, finite element models of tibial fractures at various healing stages were developed. Physiological conditions, including axial, torsional, and bending loads on the tibia, were simulated to evaluate stress and strain within the external scaffold‐tibia system under normal physiological loading conditions. Results: The results indicate variations in the stress distribution between the external fixator and the tibia during different stages of healing. In the early phase of fracture healing, the external fixator plays a crucial role as the primary load‐bearing unit under all three loading conditions. As the fracture healing progresses, the stress on the tibia gradually increases, concentrating on the medial part of the tibia under axial and torsional loading, and at the upper and lower ends, as well as the central part of the anterior and posterior tibia during bending loading. The stress at the callus gradually increases, while micro‐movements decrease. The stress within the external bracket gradually decreases, with a tendency for the connecting rod to transfer stress towards the screws. Throughout the fracture healing process, the location of maximum stress in the external fixator remains unchanged. Under axial and torsional loading, the maximum stress is located at the intersection of the lowest screw and the bone cortex, while under bending loading, it is at the intersection of the second screw and the connecting rod. Conclusion: During the bone healing process, stress is transferred between the external fixation frame and the bone. As bone healing advances, the stress on the connecting rods and screws of the external fixation frame decreases, and the amplitude of stress changes diminishes. When complete and robust fusion is achieved, stress variations stabilize, and the location of maximum stress on the external fixation frame remains unchanged. The intersections of the lowest screw and the bone cortex, as well as the second screw and the connecting rod, can serve as sensitive points for monitoring the degree of bone healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of rising temperatures and increasing humidity in Northwest China, substantial gaps remain in understanding the mechanisms of land–atmosphere cloud–precipitation coupling across the northeastern Tibetan Plateau (TP), Loess Plateau (LP), and Huangshui Valley (HV). This study addresses these gaps by investigating cloud properties and precipitation patterns utilizing the Fengyun-4 Satellite Quantitative Precipitation Estimation Product (FY4A-QPE) and ERA5 datasets. We specifically focus on Lanzhou, a pivotal city within the LP, and Xining, which epitomizes the HV. Our findings reveal that diurnal variations in precipitation are significantly less pronounced in the eastern regions compared to northeastern TP. This discrepancy is attributed to marked diurnal fluctuations in convective available potential energy (CAPE) and wind shear between 200 and 500 hPa. While both cities share similar wind shear patterns and moisture transport directions, Xining benefits from enhanced snowmelt and effective water retention in surrounding mountains, resulting in higher precipitation levels. Conversely, Lanzhou suffers from moisture deficits, with dry, hot winds exacerbating the situation. Notably, precipitation in Xining is strongly correlated with CAPE, influenced by diurnal variability, and intensified by valley and lake–land breezes, which drive afternoon convection. In contrast, Lanzhou's precipitation exhibits a weak relationship with CAPE, as even elevated values fail to generate significant cloud formation due to insufficient moisture. The ongoing trends of warming and humidification may lead to improved precipitation patterns, especially in the HV, with potential ecological benefits. However, concentrated rainfall during summer afternoons and midnights raises concerns regarding extreme weather events, highlighting the susceptibility of the HV to geological hazards. This research underscores the need to further explore the uncertainties inherent in precipitation dynamics in these regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Gram-staining negative, non-motile, rod-shaped, oxidase negative and catalase positive strain WL0021T was isolated from cricket (Gryllus chinensis) living in the campus of Hohai University. Strain WL0021T was characterized utilizing a polyphasic taxonomy approach. The major fatty acids (> 5%) for strain WL0021T were C16:0 and summed feature 8, and the major polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylcholine, phospholipid, two aminolipids, and an unidentified polar lipid. Ubiquinone-10 was detected as the predominant respiratory quinone. The results of 16S rRNA gene phylogenetic analyses revealed that strain WL0021T had the highest sequence similarity of 95.3% to Microvirga flavescens c27j1T and strain WL0021T formed a distinct linage within the family Methylobacteriaceae in the phylogenetic trees. Whole genomic DNA G+C content was 48.3%. Combined with the results from this study, strain WL0021T should represent a novel genus in the family Methylobacteriaceae, for which the name Hohaiivirga grylli gen. nov., sp. nov. (type strain WL0021T=GDMCC 1.2420T =JCM 34655T=MCCC 1K05886T) is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strain DM2021935T representing a novel Acinetobacter species was isolated from a spoiled bath lotion in Guangdong, China. Based on 16S rRNA gene phylogenetic analysis, strain DM2021935T was closely related to ‘Acinetobacter thutiue’ VNH17T, Acinetobacter junii CIP 64.5 T, and Acinetobacter tibetensis Y-23 T. Cells of strain DM2021935T were Gram-stain-negative, non-spore-forming, strictly aerobic, catalase-positive, oxidase-negative, α-hemolytic, and non-motile. Strain DM2021935T exhibited growth in 1–3% (w/v) NaCl at temperatures ranging from 4 to 37 °C and tolerated pH levels from 6.0 to 8.0. The predominant fatty acids in strain DM2021935T are C12:0, C16:0, C18:1ω9c, and summed feature 3. Polar lipid profiles included glycolipids, phospholipids, phosphatidylethanolamine, and phosphatidyl-N-methylethanolamine. The identified respiratory quinones were ubiquinone Q-8 and Q-9. The genomic size of DM2021935T comprised 4.15 Mb, consisting of one chromosome (3,827,633 bp) and two plasmids (241,357 and 83,010 bp). The G + C content was 41.8%. The average nucleotide identity, average amino acid identity, and digital DNA–DNA hybridization values between strain DM2021935T and phylogenetically related type strains were below the species delineation thresholds (72.2–95.4, 53.1–87.0, and 20.4–66.4%, respectively). AntiSMASH analysis identified four gene clusters: non-ribosomal peptide synthetase, non-alpha poly-amino group acids, YcaO cyclodehydratase, and aryl polyene biosynthesis. Based on genotypic data, strain DM2021935T represents a novel species within the genus Acinetobacter. The proposed name for the novel species is Acinetobacter corruptisaponis sp. nov. (type strain DM2021935T = KCTC 92772 T = GDMCC 1.3703 T). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitors (BTKi) exhibit superior efficacy in relapsed/refractory primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL), but few studies have evaluated patients with newly diagnosed PCNSL, and even fewer studies have evaluated differences in efficacy between treatment with BTKi and traditional chemotherapy. This study retrospectively analyzed the clinical characteristics of 86 patients with PCNSL and identified predictors of poor prognosis for overall survival (OS). After excluding patients who only received palliative care, 82 patients were evaluated for efficacy and survival. According to the induction regimen, patients were divided into the traditional chemotherapy, BTKi combination therapy, and radiotherapy groups; the objective response rates (ORR) of the three groups were 71.4%, 96.2%, and 71.4% (P = 0.037), respectively. Both median progression-free survival and median duration of remission showed statistically significant differences (P = 0.019 and P = 0.030, respectively). The median OS of the BTKi-containing therapy group was also longer than that of the traditional chemotherapy group (not reached versus 47.8 (32.5–63.1) months, P = 0.038).Seventy-one patients who achieved an ORR were further analyzed, and achieved an ORR after four cycles of treatment and maintenance therapy had prolonged OS (P = 0.003 and P = 0.043, respectively). In conclusion, survival, and prognosis of patients with newly diagnosed PCNSL are influenced by the treatment regimen, with the BTKi-containing regimen showing great potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bulk chemical composition analysis is a primary and pivotal analytical task for extraterrestrial geological samples (e.g., lunar soil, asteroids, or meteoroids). However, the analysis of mg-level consumption of extraterrestrial geological samples poses a significant challenge to existing analytical techniques. In this study, a new method was developed for trace element determination in bulk extraterrestrial geological samples prepared as lithium borate glasses, following customized procedures for X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis with a 10 mg sample by femtosecond LA-ICP-MS. All thirty-two trace elements in the borate glass samples were evenly distributed with homogeneity indices (H) < Hcrit. For the borate glass samples, Si was more suitable as an internal standard for Co, Ni, Cu, and Zn, whereas Al was better for the others. The femtosecond laser greatly reduces the influence of matrix effects, making calibration with non-matrix-matched external standards (NIST 612 and 614) accurate. Although the mass ratio of the flux and sample was as high as 35 : 1, the analytical results of 32 trace elements in six silicate rock reference materials (covering mafic to felsic rock types) using the developed technique were consistent with the reference values within 10% for most elements, and analytical precision (RSD) was also within 10% for most elements. Finally, one lunar basalt (NWA14526) and one shergottite (NWA13190) were assayed using the proposed method, and a comparison with the results of solution nebulization (SN)-ICP-MS confirmed the reliability of the method. The proposed method, combined with XRF, achieved the rapid, simultaneous, and accurate determination of major and trace elements in the same small sample aliquot (10 mg), which is highly suitable for the analysis of extraterrestrial geological samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) often exhibits aggressive growth with distant organ metastasis, leading to poor survival. Objective The question of whether primary tumor resection (PTR) is beneficial for patients with metastatic MTC remains a subject of debate. In this study, we evaluated the prognostic significance of organ-specific metastases and the number of metastatic organs in these patients, and we also conducted an analysis to determine the therapeutic value of PTR in managing this rare malignancy. Materials and Methods Patients initially diagnosed with metastatic MTC were identified within the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models were performed to identify survival predictors. Survival outcomes were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared using the log-rank tests. Results A total of 186 patients with metastatic MTC at initial diagnosis from 2010 to 2020 were included. Bone, lung, and liver were the most common metastatic organs. Patients with brain metastasis had significantly worse overall survival (P =.007) and cancer-specific survival (P =.0013). Among all patients, 105 (56.45%) underwent PTR, and this group showed reduced overall mortality and cancer-specific mortality (all P <.05). When analyzing different metastatic patterns, PTR significantly lowered the risk of overall mortality and cancer-specific mortality for patients with bone, lung, liver, or distant lymph node involvement (all P <.05). Additionally, among patients with 1 or 2 metastases, those undergoing surgical resection were significantly associated with favorable overall survival (P =.008) and cancer-specific survival (P =.0247). Conclusion PTR may confer therapeutic benefits for carefully selected individuals with metastatic MTCs. To integrate these insights into clinical decision-making settings, it is imperative to undertake multicenter prospective studies in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saline lakes, characterized by high salinity and limited nutrient availability, provide an ideal environment for studying extreme halophiles and their biogeochemical processes. The present study examined prokaryotic microbial communities and their ecological functions in lentic sediments (with the salinity gradient and time series) using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and a metagenomic approach. Our findings revealed a negative correlation between microbial diversity and salinity. The notable predominance of Archaea in high-salinity lakes signified a considerable alteration in the composition of the microbial community. The results indicate that elevated salinity promotes homogeneous selection pressures, causing substantial alterations in microbial diversity and community structure, and simultaneously hindering interactions among microorganisms. This results in a notable decrease in the complexity of microbial ecological networks, ultimately influencing the overall ecological functional responses of microbial communities such as carbon fixation, sulfur, and nitrogen metabolism. Overall, our findings reveal salinity drives a notable predominance of Archaea, selects for species adapted to extreme conditions, and decreases microbial community complexity within saline lake ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strain WL0113T was isolated from surface seawater of the coast of Lianyungang, Jiangsu province, PR China. Strain WL0113T shared highest 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity with Roseobacter insulae YSTF-M11T (98.8%), followed by R. cerasinus AI77T (98.8%), R. ponti MM-7 T (98.0%). Strain WL0113T was Gram-stain-negative, cream, aerobic, non-motile and coccoid- to oval-shaped, and able to grow at pH 6.5–9.0 (optimum, pH 7.0–8.0), at 10–37 °C (optimum, 28 °C) and in the presence of 1–5% (w/v; optimum, 2.5%) NaCl. Ubiquinone-10 was detected as dominant. The main fatty acids (> 5%) of the strain WL0113T were C16:0, iso-C17:0 3OH, C20:4ω6,9,12,15c (arachidonic acid), and summed feature 8 (C18:1ω7c and/or C18:1ω6c). The major polar lipids include phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylcholine, glycophospholipid, unknown aminolipid, unknown phospholipid, and two unknown polar lipids. The ANI and dDDH values between strain WL0113T and Roseobacter cerasinus were 80.4% and 23.0%, respectively. The genomic DNA G + C content of strain WL0113T was 63.1%. Based on these data, it is proposed that strain WL0113T represent novel species of the genus Roseobacter, for which the name Roseobacter sinensis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is WL0113T (= GDMCC 1.3082T = JCM 35567T). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed at investigating the relationship between the weekend catch-up outdoor duration (WCOD) and prevalence of myopia among students in China. Methods: This cross-sectional study recruited participants in 107 schools (six cities, 30 districts) from China from May to June 2021. Demographic characteristics (age, grade, sex, ethnicity, BMI, resident, and parents' myopia), optically habits (bad writing habits, working/studying time per day, continuous working/studying time per day, and screen time per day) and outdoor duration (weekday and weekend) were obtained from questionnaire. WCOD was defined as outdoor time 1 h longer on weekends than on weekdays. Spherical equivalent (SE) of refractive error were measured with non-cycloplegic refraction. Adjusted multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the relationship between WCOD and prevalence of myopia. Results: Students with myopia had shorter WCOD compared with those without myopia (P < 0.001). Adjusted multivariate logistic regression analyses showed negative associations between WCOD and prevalence of myopia in Chinese students, especially in students with WCOD of 2–3 h (OR = 0.577, P < 0.001) and 3–4 h (OR = 0.571, P = 0.004) when the weekday outdoor duration was 0.5–1 h, as well as students with WCOD of 2–3 h (OR = 0.614, P = 0.003) when the weekday outdoor duration was 1–2 h. Similar results were observed in students with high myopia. Students with high myopia had shorter WCOD compared with those without high myopia (P = 0.001). Negative associations between WCOD and prevalence of high myopia were significant in students with WCOD of 1–2 h when the weekday outdoor duration was < 0.5 h (OR = 0.585, P = 0.007) and 0.5–1 h (OR = 0.537, P = 0.018). Conclusion: Our study, for the first time, reported that a WCOD have a potential to reduce the prevalence of myopia and high myopia in Chinese students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Castanopsis carlesii is a dominant tree species in subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forests and holds significant ecological value. It serves as an excellent timber tree species and raw material for cultivating edible fungi. Henry Chinquapin (Castanea henryi) wood is known for its hardness and resistance to water and moisture, making it an exceptional timber species. Additionally, its fruit has a sweet and fruity taste, making it a valuable food source. However, the mitogenomes of these species have not been previously reported. To gain a better understanding of them, this study successfully assembled high-quality mitogenomes of C. carlesii and Ca. henryi for the first time. Results: Our research reveals that the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) of C. carlesii exhibits a unique multi-branched conformation, while Ca. henryi primarily exists in the form of two independent molecules that can be further divided into three independent molecules through one pair of long repetitive sequences. The size of the mitogenomes of C. carlesii and Ca. henryi are 592,702 bp and 379,929 bp respectively, which are currently the largest and smallest Fagaceae mitogenomes recorded thus far. The primary factor influencing mitogenome size is dispersed repeats. Comparison with published mitogenomes from closely related species highlights differences in size, gene loss patterns, codon usage preferences, repetitive sequences, as well as mitochondrial plastid DNA segments (MTPTs). Conclusions: Our study enhances the understanding of mitogenome structure and evolution in Fagaceae, laying a crucial foundation for future research on cell respiration, disease resistance, and other traits in this family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the current status of delirium care self-efficacy among nurses in the intensive care unit (ICU) and the level of their knowledge about delirium in the ICU, more importantly, to analyze factors influencing the delirium care self-efficacy of ICU nurses and to provide a theoretical basis for ICU nursing managers to develop strategies for effective delirium care and management. Methods: The study was based on a sample of 283 ICU nurses from eight hospitals in Chongqing selected using a convenience sampling method between July 2023 and September 2023. The tools used included a general information questionnaire, the Chinese version of the Delirium Care Self-Efficacy of ICU Nurses Scale, and the Chinese version of the ICU Delirium Knowledge Level Questionnaire. Results: The self-efficacy score (47.84 ± 9.93) of ICU nurses was positively correlated with the delirium knowledge level score (12.32 ± 3.47, r = 0.591, P < 0.001). Multivariate linear regression analysis identified the gender of the nurse, hospital level (tier), duration of ICU work experience, whether the nurse was a specialized ICU nurse, whether the nurse received delirium-related training, and the level of knowledge about delirium (all P < 0.05) as the influencing factors for the delirium care self-efficacy of ICU nurses. Conclusion: It is recommended that ICU nursing managers offer targeted interventions based on the influencing factors to improve the delirium care self-efficacy of ICU nurses and their delirium knowledge levels, thereby reducing the incidence of delirium and improving the quality of care provided for patients with delirium in the ICU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radioactive iodine from nuclear waste poses a major threat to public safety due to its toxicity and long half-life. The capture and storage of radioactive iodine remains a major challenge. The incorporation of electron-rich heterocycles into the adsorbents could increase the adsorption capacity for iodine due to their strong interaction. In this study, three novel spiro-thioketal-based porous organic polymers, POPSP-1–3, were synthesized in excellent yields by a thiol-aldehyde polycondensation reaction. The polymers of POPSPs were thoroughly characterized using FT-IR, 13C-NMR, BET, and PXRD techniques. These analyses revealed that the polymers are amorphous in nature and have a low surface area. The iodine uptake capacities of POPSP-1, POPSP-2, and POPSP-3 were measured to be 4.13, 5.25, and 5.65 g g−1, respectively, at a temperature of 75 °C due to the increased density of the adsorption sites. Furthermore, the POPSPs exhibit exceptional adsorption performance in iodine/n-hexane solution and their effectiveness in removing iodine is excellent. This work provides a novel approach for the development of sulfur-rich porous organic polymers (POPs) as effective adsorbents for iodine capture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron homeostasis is vital for normal physiology, but in the majority of circumstances, like iron overload, this equilibrium is upset leading to free iron in the plasma. This condition with excess iron is known as hemochromatosis, which has been linked to many side effects, including cancer and liver cirrhosis. The current research aimed to investigate active molecules from Streptomyces sp. isolated from the extreme environment of Bahawalpur deserts. The strain was characterized using 16 S rRNA sequencing. Chemical analysis of the ethyl acetate cure extract revealed the presence of phenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, and tannins. Multiple ultraviolet (UV) active metabolites that were essential for the stated pharmacological activities were also demonstrated by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Additionally, Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis revealed the primary constituents of the extract to compose of phenol and ester compounds. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay was used to assess the extract's antioxidant capacity, and the results showed a good half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 0.034 µg/mL in comparison to the positive control ascorbic acid's 0.12 µg/mL. In addition, iron chelation activity of extract showed significant chelation potential at 250 and 125 µg/mL, while 62.5 µg/mL showed only mild chelation of the ferrous ion using ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid (EDTA) as a positive control. Likewise, the extract's cytotoxicity was analyzed through 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay using varying concentrations of the extract and showed 51% cytotoxicity at 350 µg/mL and 65% inhibition of cell growth at 700 µg/mL, respectively. The bioactive compounds from Streptomyces sp. demonstrated strong antioxidant and iron chelating potentials and can prolong the cell survival in extreme environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assembly of 2D molecules into hierarchical structures opens new avenues for creating multifunctional materials, yet fabricating the optical materials with multiscale structural features, and extending functions in a controllable way remains a challenge. Here, an asynchronous liquid depositing strategy is introduced that enables the asymmetrical growth of 2D covalent organic frameworks (COFs) on a graphene substrate. This results in Janus composite (JC) materials with independently controlled mesoscopic features, such as the COF layer thickness (100–300 nm), and its nanoflake length (0–200 nm), and thickness (0–30 nm). The JCs exhibit impressive light coupling capabilities and display a wide range of angle‐independent structural colors. These colors can be dynamically and reversibly changed in 10 ms when exposed to volatile organic compounds (VOCs). They also demonstrate remarkable tailorability to form both random and ordered patterns which shows excellent information processing potential. These unique properties make JCs highly suitable as novel responsive optical devices for collecting and processing information about their surroundings, as demonstrated by visual and real‐time VOC monitoring and localization in both open and confined spaces. It is believed that the controlled assembly of 2D components into composites with well‐organized hierarchical structures will facilitate the future development of extraordinary materials with extensive applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) assisted photocatalytic production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2 has already attracted the interest of many researchers due to its environmental sustainability. Nevertheless, the inherent drawbacks of g‐C3N4 limit its progress. Metal‐free modification strategies, including nanostructure design, defect introduction, doping, and heterojunction construction, have been developed to improve the efficiency of g‐C3N4 photocatalytic H2O2 production. Compared to metal modification, metal‐free strategies avoid the use of precious metals and the leaching of heavy metal ions, which have the advantages of good stability and environmental friendliness. However, a comprehensive review of H2O2 production from g‐C3N4 modified by metal‐free strategies is still lacking. This review first recaps the mechanism of photocatalytic H2O2 production by g‐C3N4, including photoexcitation, carrier separation and redox reactions. Then, the perspective advances in metal‐free modified g‐C3N4 photocatalysts are presented, with the special focus on the kernel connection between different strategies and mechanism based on the pivotal stages of H2O2 production. Subsequently, recent applications of g‐C3N4‐based photocatalysts for in situ generated H2O2, mainly including water purification and organic synthesis, are briefly discussed. Finally, the prospects of g‐C3N4‐based photocatalysts are envisioned with the hope that it will have "something to do" in the field of H2O2 production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel rod-shaped bacterium, designated as strain SYSU D60015T that formed yellowish colonies was isolated from a sandy soil collected from the Kumtag Desert in Xinjiang, China. Cells were Gram-stain-negative, oxidase-positive, catalase-negative and motile with a single polar flagellum. Growth optimum occurred between 28 and 37 °C, pH 7.0 and with 0–0.5% (W/V) NaCl. The predominant cellular fatty acids (> 5%) were summed feature 8 (C18:1ω7c and/or C18:1ω6c), C19:0 cyclo ω8c, C18:1ω7c 11-methyl and C16:0. The polar lipid profile contained one phosphatidylethanolamine, one diphosphatidylglycerol, one phosphatidylglycerol, one unidentified phospholipid, three unidentified aminolipids, two unidentified aminophospholipids and seven unidentified lipids. The only respiratory quinone was ubiquinone-10. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequence phylogenetic analysis, strain SYSU D60015T was found to form a distinct linage within the family Sneathiellaceae, and had 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities of 90.8% to Taonella mepensis H1T, and 90.2% to Ferrovibrio denitrificans S3T. The genome of SYSU D60015T was 5.66 Mb in size with 68.2% of DNA G + C content. The low digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH, 18.0%), average nucleotide identity (ANI, 77.5%) and amino acid identity (AAI, 56.0%) values between SYSU D60015T and Ferrovibrio terrae K5T indicated that SYSU D60015T might represent a distinct genus. Based on the phylogenetic, phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and genomic data, we propose Desertibaculum subflavum gen. nov., sp. nov. as a novel species of a new genus within the family Sneathiellaceae. The type strain is SYSU D60015T (= NBRC 112952T = CGMCC 1.16256T). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An aerobic, Gram-stain-negative bacterium, designated as SYSU D00382T, was sourced from soil of Gurbantunggut Desert, PR China. The strain was short-rod-shaped, oxidase-positive and catalase-negative, with yellow-colored, convex, round, and smooth colonies on TSA plate. Growth and proliferation occurred at 4–37 °C (optimal: 28–30 °C), pH 5.0–8.0 (optimal: pH 6.0–7.0) and NaCl concentration of 0–2.5% (optimal: 0–0.5%). The 16S rRNA gene based phylogenetic assessment showed that SYSU D00382T belonged to the genus Pedobacter, and was most closely related to Pedobacter ginsengisoli Gsoil 104T with similarity of 97.7%. The genomic DNA G+C content of SYSU D00382T was 46.4%. The average nucleotide identity (ANI) and digital DNA–DNA hybridization (dDDH) values between SYSU D00382T and P. ginsengisoli Gsoil 104T were 75.7% and 17.5%, respectively. The main polar lipid was phosphatidylethanolamine. The major fatty acids (> 5%) were iso-C15:0, iso-C17:0 3-OH, summed features 3 and 9. The sole respiratory quinone identified was MK-7. The phylogeny based on 16S rRNA gene and whole-genome sequences revealed that SYSU D00382T formed a robust lineage with P. ginsengisoli Gsoil 104T. Based on phenotypic, phylogenetic and genotypic data, a novel specie named Pedobacter deserti sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is SYSU D00382T (= CGMCC 1.18627T = MCCC 1K04972T = KCTC 82279T). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The strain designated NCCP-602T was isolated from tannery effluent, and displayed aerobic, gram-positive, rod-shaped cells that were characterized by oxidase negative, catalase positive, and non-motile features. The most favourable growth conditions were observed at a temperature of 30°C, pH 7.0, and NaCl concentration of 1% (w/v). It tolerated heavy metals at high concentrations of chromium (3600 ppm), copper (3300 ppm), cadmium (3000 ppm), arsenic (1200 ppm) and lead (1500 ppm). The results of phylogenetic analysis, derived from sequences of the 16S rRNA gene, indicated the position of strain NCCP-602T within genus Brevibacterium and showed that it was closely related to Brevibacterium ammoniilyticum JCM 17537T. Strain NCCP-602 T formed a robust branch that was clearly separate from closely related taxa. A comparison of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity and dDDH values between the closely related type strains and strain NCCP-602T provided additional evidence supporting the classification of strain NCCP-602T as a distinct novel genospecies. The polar lipid profile included diphosphatidylglycerol, glycolipid, phospholipids and amino lipids. MK-7 and MK-8 were found as the respiratory quinones, while anteiso-C15:0, iso-C15:0, iso-C16:0, iso-C17:0, and anteiso-C17:0 were identified as the predominant cellular fatty acids (> 10%). Considering the convergence of phylogenetic, phenotypic, chemotaxonomic, and genotypic traits, it is suggested that strain NCCP-602 T be classified as a distinct species Brevibacterium metallidurans sp. nov. within genus Brevibacterium with type strain NCCP-602T (JCM 18882T = CGMCC1.62055T). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genus Thermus is the main focus of researcher among the thermophiles. Members of this genus are the inhabitants of both natural and artificial thermal environments. We performed phylogenomic analyses and comparative genomic studies to unravel the genomic diversity among the strains belonging to the genus Thermus in geographically different thermal springs. Sixteen Thermus strains were isolated and sequenced from hot springs, Qucai hot springs in Tibet and Tengchong hot springs in Yunnan, China. 16S rRNA gene based phylogeny and phylogenomic analyses based on concatenated set of 971 Orthologous Protein Families (supermatrix and gene content methods) revealed a mixed distribution of the Thermus strains. Whole genome based phylogenetic analysis showed, all 16 Thermus strains belong to five species; Thermus oshimai (YIM QC-2-109, YIM 1640, YIM 1627, 77359, 77923, 77838), Thermusantranikianii (YIM 73052, 77412, 77311, 71206), Thermus brokianus (YIM 73518, 71318, 72351), Thermus hydrothermalis (YIM 730264 and 77927) and one potential novel species 77420 forming clade with Thermus thalpophilus SYSU G00506T. Although the genomes of different strains of Thermus of same species were highly similar in their metabolic pathways, but subtle differences were found. CRISPR loci were detected through genome-wide screening, which showed that Thermus isolates from two different thermal locations had well developed defense system against viruses and adopt similar strategy for survival. Additionally, comparative genome analysis screened competence loci across all the Thermus genomes which could be helpful to acquire DNA from environment. In the present study it was found that Thermus isolates use two mechanism of incomplete denitrification pathway, some Thermus strains produces nitric oxide while others nitrious oxide (dinitrogen oxide), which show the heterotrophic lifestyle of Thermus genus. All isolated organisms encoded complete pathways for glycolysis, tricarboxylic acid and pentose phosphate. Calvin Benson Bassham cycle genes were identified in genomes of T. oshimai and T. antranikianii strains, while genomes of all T. brokianus strains and organism 77420 were lacking. Arsenic, cadmium and cobalt-zinc-cadmium resistant genes were detected in genomes of all sequenced Thermus strains. Strains 77,420, 77,311, 73,518, 77,412 and 72,351 genomes were found harboring genes for siderophores production. Sox gene clusters were identified in all sequenced genomes, except strain YIM 730264, suggesting a mode of chemolithotrophy. Through the comparative genomic analysis, we also identified 77420 as the genome type species and its validity as novel organism was confirmed by whole genome sequences comparison. Although isolate 77420 had 99.0% 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity with T. thalpophilus SYSU G00506T but based on ANI 95.86% (Jspecies) and digital DDH 68.80% (GGDC) values differentiate it as a potential novel species. Similarly, in the phylogenomic tree, the novel isolate 77,420 forming a separate branch with their closest reference type strain T. thalpophilus SYSU G00506T. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two novel Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, and non-motile strains, designated FZY0004T and YYF002T, were isolated from an agar-degrading co-culture, which was obtained from seawater of the intertidal zone of Yancheng City, the Yellow Sea of China. Strain FZY0004T optimally grew at 28 °C, pH 7.0, and 2–6% NaCl, while strain YYF002T optimally grew at 28 °C, pH 7.5, and 2–4% NaCl. Strain FZY0004T possessed Q-9 as the major respiratory quinone, and its major fatty acids (> 10%) were summed feature 8 (C18:1ω7c), C16:0, and summed feature 3 (C16:1ω7c/C16:1ω6c). The polar lipids identified in strain FZY0004T were phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), phosphatidylglycerol (PG), and several unidentified phospholipids (PL) and lipids (L). On the other hand, strain YYF002T had MK-6 as the predominant respiratory quinone and its major fatty acids consisted of iso-C15:0, iso-C15:1 G, and iso-C15:0 3-OH. The polar lipids identified in strain YYF002T were aminolipid (AL), PE, and several unidentified lipids. Strain FZY0004T shared 99.5% 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity and 90.1% average nucleotide identity (ANI) with T. povalilytica Zumi 95T, and strain YYF002T shared 99.2% 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity and 88.2% ANI with W. poriferorum JCM 12885T. The genomic DNA G + C contents of strains FZY0004T and YYF002T were 54.5% and 33.5%, respectively. The phylogenetic, phenotypic, and physiological characteristics permitted the distinction of the two strains from their neighbors, and we thus propose the names Thalassospira aquimaris sp. nov. (type strain FZY0004T = JCM 35895T = MCCC 1K08380T) and Winogradskyella marincola sp. nov. (type strain YYF002T = JCM 35950T = MCCC 1K08382T). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An aerobic, Gram-stain-negative, motile rod bacterium, designated as SYSU BS000021T, was isolated from a black soil sample in Harbin, Heilongjiang province, China. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that the isolate belongs to the genus Methylobacterium, and showed the highest sequence similarity to Methylobacterium segetis KCTC 62267 T (98.51%) and Methylobacterium oxalidis DSM 24028 T (97.79%). Growth occurred at 20–37℃ (optimum, 28 °C), pH 6.0–8.0 (optimum, pH 7.0) and in the presence of 0% (w/v) NaCl. Polar lipids comprised of phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol, one unidentified aminolipid and one unidentified polar lipid. The major cellular fatty acids (> 5%) were C18:0 and C18:1ω7c and/or C18:1ω6c. The predominant respiratory quinone was Q-10. The genomic G + C content was 68.36% based on the whole genome analysis. The average nucleotide identity (≤ 83.5%) and digital DNA–DNA hybridization (≤ 27.3%) values between strain SYSU BS000021T and other members of the genus Methylobacterium were all lower than the threshold values recommended for distinguishing novel prokaryotic species. Based on the results of phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and phylogenetic analyses, strain SYSU BS000021T represents a novel species of the genus Methylobacterium, for which the name Methylobacterium nigriterrae sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of the proposed novel species is SYSU BS000021T (= GDMCC 1.3814 T = KCTC 8051 T). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Gram-stain-negative, motile (by single polar flagellum) and rod-shaped bacterium, designated W1-6T, was isolated from a sediment of drainage ditch in winery in Guiyang, south-western China. Strain W1-6T showed the highest 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities with the type strain of Acidovorax wautersii (98.1%) and Simplicispira lacusdiani (97.9%). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that strain W1-6T was placed adjacent to the members of the genus Simplicispira and formed a separat subclade. Cells showed oxidase and catalase negative reactions. The only respiratory quinone detected was ubiquinone-8 (Q-8). Summed feature 3 (C16:1ω7c and/or C16:1ω6c), C16:0 and summed feature 8 (C18:1ω7c and/or C18:1ω6c) were predominant cellular fatty acids (> 10%) of strain W1-6T. Diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine and five unidentified phospholipids were found in the polar lipid extraction. The genomic DNA G + C content was 65.6%. Strain W1-6T shared the highest digital DNA-DNA hybridization [dDDH, (27.6%)] and average nucleotide identity [ANI (84.3%)] values with the type strain of S. lacusdiani. The dDDH and ANI values were below the cutoff level (dDDH 70%; ANI 95–96%) for species delineation. The polyphasic characteristics indicated that the strain W1-6T represents a novel species of the genus Simplicispira, for which the name Simplicispira sedimenti sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is W1-6T (= CGMCC 1.16274T = NBRC 115624T). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Modified furosemide responsiveness index (mFRI) is a novel biomarker for assessing diuretic response and AKI progression in patients with early AKI. However, the comparative predictive performance of mFRI and novel renal biomarkers for adverse renal outcomes remains unclear. In a single-center prospective study, we aimed to evaluate the discriminatory abilities of mFRI and other novel renal biomarkers in predicting AKI progression and prognosis in patients with initial mild and moderate AKI (KDIGO stage 1 to 2). Results: Patients with initial mild and moderate AKI within 48 h following cardiac surgery were included in this study. The mFRI, renal biomarkers (including serum or urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin [sNGAL or uNGAL], serum cystatin C, urinary N-acetyl-beta-D-glycosaminidase [uNAG], urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio) and cytokines (TNF, IL-1β, IL-2R, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10) were measured at AKI diagnosis. The mFRI was calculated for each patient, which was defined as 2-hour urine output divided by furosemide dose and body weight. Of 1013 included patients, 154 (15.2%) experienced AKI progression, with 59 (5.8%) progressing to stage 3 and 33 (3.3%) meeting the composite outcome of hospital mortality or receipt of renal replacement therapy (RRT). The mFRI showed non-inferiority or potential superiority to renal biomarkers and cytokines in predicting AKI progression (area under the curve [AUC] 0.80, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.77–0.82), progression to stage 3 (AUC 0.87, 95% CI 0.85–0.89), and composite outcome of death and receipt of RRT (AUC 0.85, 95% CI 0.82–0.87). Furthermore, the combination of a functional biomarker (mFRI) and a urinary injury biomarker (uNAG or uNGAL) resulted in a significant improvement in the prediction of adverse renal outcomes than either individual biomarker (all P < 0.05). Moreover, incorporating these panels into clinical model significantly enhanced its predictive capacity for adverse renal outcomes, as demonstrated by the C index, integrated discrimination improvement, and net reclassification improvement (all P < 0.05). Conclusions: As a rapid, cost-effective and easily accessible biomarker, mFRI, exhibited superior or comparable predictive capabilities for AKI progression and prognosis compared to renal biomarkers in cardiac surgical patients with mild to moderate AKI. Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT04962412. Registered July 15, 2021, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04962412?cond=NCT04962412&draw=2&rank=1. Highlights: The mFRI is a rapid, cost-effective and easily accessible biomarker. The mFRI exhibited superior or comparable predictive capabilities for AKI progression and prognosis compared to renal biomarkers and cytokines in cardiac surgical patients with mild to moderate AKI. Combining the functional biomarker mFRI with a urinary injury biomarker (uNAG or uNGAL) enhanced predictive accuracy for adverse renal outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strain SYSU D00308T, a short-rod-shaped bacterium, was isolated from a sandy soil collected from the Gurbantunggut Desert, Xinjiang, PR China. Strain SYSU D00308T was Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, pink-pigmented, non-motile, catalase- and oxidase-positive. The strain grew at 4–37 ℃, pH 5.0–8.0 and 0–1.5% (w/v) NaCl. 16S rRNA gene sequencing analyses demonstrated that strain SYSU D00308T belonged to the genus Rufibacter and exhibited the highest sequence similarity (97.4%) to Rufibacter glacialis MDT1-10-3T. Summed features 3, 4, and iso-C15:0 were the major fatty acids, and menaquinone 7 (MK-7) was the sole respiratory menaquinone. The polar lipid profiles comprised phosphatidylethanolamine, an unidentified glycolipid, an unidentified phospholipid, two unidentified aminophospholipids, and two unidentified lipids. The genome size and DNA G + C content of strain SYSU D00308T were 5,176,683 bp and 54.8%, respectively. The average nucleotide identity (ANI) and digital DNA–DNA hybridization (dDDH) values between SYSU D00308T and members of the genus Rufibacter were 77.7–81.8% and 20.4–23.4% respectively, which were less than the corresponding thresholds (ANI: 95–96%; dDDH: 70%) for prokaryotic species definition. According to the genotypic, phenotypic and phylogenetic characteristics, strain SYSU D00308T represents a novel species of the genus Rufibacter. We propose the name, Rufibacter psychrotolerans sp. nov., with SYSU D00308T (= CGMCC 1.18621T = KCTC 82275T = MCCC 1K04970T) as the type strain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel synthesis design approach to multimode resonant, azimuthal null frequency scanning antennas (ANFSAs) coordinated by null‐depth is presented. The antenna is composed of a principal radiator and an auxiliary one fed by different ports. A synthesis chart gauged by different null‐depths is developed to determine the respective exciting amplitude and phase conditions for the principal and auxiliary radiators. As is theoretically demonstrated and numerically verified, the ANFSA can exhibit an adjustable null‐depth varying from −12∼−30 dB. A three‐port unequal‐split power divider with the simplest configuration is properly designed, utilised and integrated to meet the oriented power and phase conditions. A prototype with in‐band null‐depth of −30 dB is designed, fabricated and validated in such a way that its available bandwidth can reach up to 32.7%, and the null can continuously scan from φ = 160°–275° in azimuth plane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global constrained optimization problems are very complex for engineering applications. To solve complicated and constrained optimization problems with fast convergence and accurate computations, a new quantum artificial bee colony algorithm using Sin chaos and Cauchy factor (SCQABC) is proposed. The algorithm introduces a quantum bit to initialize the population, which is then updated by the quantum rotation gate to enhance the convergence of the artificial bee colony algorithm (ABC). Sin chaos is introduced to process the individual positions, which improves the randomness and ergodicity of initializing individuals and results in a more diverse initial population. To overcome the upper limits of visiting target individual positions, Cauchy factor is used to mutate individuals for solving falling into local optimum problems. To evaluate the performance of the SCQABC, 20 classical benchmark functions and CEC-2017 are used. The practical engineering problems are also used to verify the practicability of SCQABC algorithm. Moreover, the experimental results will be compared with other well-known and progressive algorithms. According to the results, the SCQABC improves by 64.93% compared with the ABC and also has corresponding improvement compared with other algorithms. Its successful application to the robot gripper problem highlights its effectiveness in solving constrained optimization problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a novel method based on a numerical simulation approach and fatigue fracture theory to analyze the fracture behavior and assess the fatigue life of spring clips. To this end, the finite element (FE) model of the vehicle‐track‐foundation system was developed including the key parts of the type II fastening system. Meanwhile, the spring clip FE model was validated through the natural vibration characteristics. Subsequently, the numerical simulations were performed under various working conditions to obtain the fatigue characteristics of the spring clips. The fatigue crack initiation life and damage were analyzed using FE results for the spring clips with ε‐N curve and Brown‐Miller criterion. Moreover, based on the initial crack geometry of the spring clips, the maximum circumferential stress criterion with the Paris equation was employed to analyze the crack extension behavior and assess the fatigue crack extension life. Highlights: A novel approach is developed for fatigue assessment of spring clip.A FE model of vehicle‐track‐foundation system was built including fastening system.The Fracture behavior of the spring clip was reproduced.Fatigue characteristic of spring clips subjected to axle load is studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Chronic excessive alcohol consumption can lead to alcoholic fatty liver, posing substantial health risks. l‐Theanine (LTA) and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) in tea exert antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects. However, the combined effects of LTA and EGCG on rats with alcoholic fatty liver, and the underlying mechanisms of such effects, remain unclear. In this study, Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were fed with alcohol for 6 weeks to induce alcoholic fatty liver. Subsequently, for another 6 weeks, the rats were administered LTA (200 mg kg−1 day−1), EGCG (200 mg kg−1 day−1), or a combination of LTA with EGCG (40 mg kg−1 day−1l‐Thea +160 mg kg−1 day−1 EGCG), respectively. RESULTS: The combined use of LTA and EGCG for alcoholic fatty liver disease had more significant effects than their individual administration. This combination reduced the activity of serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) as well as the levels of hepatic triglyceride (TG), malondialdehyde (MDA), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the rats. The combined intervention also increased hepatic superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase activity. Reductions in hepatic fat accumulation and inflammatory responses were observed. The mechanism underlying these effects primarily involved the inhibition of fatty acid synthesis and the alleviation of lipid peroxidation through the downregulation of the mRNA and protein expression of TNF‐α, SREBP1c, and CYP2E1 and the upregulation of the mRNA and protein expression of ADH1, ALDH2, Lipin‐1, PPARαPPARα, AMPK, and PGC‐1α, thereby promoting the oxidative decomposition of fatty acids and reducing the synthesis of cholesterol and glucose. CONCLUSION: l‐Theanine and EGCG appear to be able to alleviate alcoholic fatty liver by modulating lipid metabolism and ameliorating oxidative stress, indicating their potential as natural active ingredients in anti‐alcoholic fatty liver food products. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Ili River Valley, located in the northwest of China, serves as a vital repository for fish genetic resources. Its extensive water network and diverse climate have given rise to a unique fish composition and endemic species. In this study, we collected the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequences from 660 fish specimens in the Ili River Valley. The effectiveness of DNA barcoding in identifying fish species in the area was assessed by examining genetic distances, constructing phylogenetic trees, and performing ABGD (Automatic Barcode Gap Discovery) analyses, among other methods. In total, 20 species were identified, including one unidentified species (Silurus sp.). Except for Silurus asotus and Hypophthalmichthys molitrix (only one sample), the maximum intraspecific genetic distance among the remaining species was smaller than the minimum interspecific distance, which proves that the species exhibit obvious barcode gaps. In the Neighbor‐Joining trees, 20 species formed separate monophyletic branches. According to ABGD analysis, 660 sequences were categorized into 19 Operational Taxonomic Units, with Silurus sp. and S. asotus grouped into a single OTU. The Silurus in this study exhibits shared haplotypes and significant genetic divergence, suggesting the potential presence of cryptic species. Furthermore, the nucleotide diversity across all species fell below the threshold level, indicating that the local fish population is gradually declining. In conclusion, this study has demonstrated the effectiveness of DNA barcoding in identifying fish species in the Ili River Valley, providing valuable data to support the conservation of local fish resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An aerobic, Gram-stain negative bacterium was isolated from sediment samples of Barkol salt lake in Hami City, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China, with the number EGI_FJ10229T. The strain is ellipse-shaped, oxidase-negative, catalase-positive, and has white, round, smooth, opaque colonies on marine 2216 E agar plate. Growth occurs at 4.0–37.0 ℃ (optimal:30.0 ℃), pH 7.0–9.0 (optimal: pH 8.0) and NaCl concentration of 0–8.0% (optimal: 3.0%). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene and genome sequences indicated that the isolated strain should be assigned to the genus Aquibaculum and was most closely related to Aquibaculum arenosum CAU 1616 T. Average nucleotide identity (ANI) and Average amino-acid identity (AAI) values between the type species of the genus Aquibaculum and other related type species were lower than the threshold values recommended for bacterial species. The genomic DNA G + C content of EGI_FJ10229T was 65.41%. The major polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylmethylethanolamine, phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine and unidentified phospholipid. The major fatty acids (> 5%) were C19:0 cyclo ω8c (42.0%) and C18:1ω7c (33.78%). The respiratory quinone identified was Q-10. Differential phenotypic and genotypic characteristics of this strain and species of genus Aquibaculum showed that the strain should be classified as representing a new species belonging to this genus, for which the name Aquibaculum sediminis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of the proposed novel species is EGI_FJ10229T (= KCTC 8570 T = GDMCC 1.4598 T). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ingestion of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) via contaminated food contact materials (FCMs) is an important human exposure source. This study adopts a toxicity equivalent approach to evaluate the collective health risk of multiple PFAAs in FCMs. A comprehensive extraction and analysis of 21 PFAAs in FCMs was performed. Among the analyzed substances, 15 PFAAs were detected. Migration experiment using three food simulants revealed the migration range of seven PFAAs from FCMs into the simulant to be 0.47–46.7 ng/cm2. The hazard quotient results suggest minimal health risk, except for 9% of packaged samples where perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) poses a higher risk. Utilizing PFOA toxic equivalent concentrations, comprehensive risk calculations showed ∼77% of samples potentially posing elevated health risks due to PFAA exposure. This emphasizes the substantial contribution of PFAAs beyond PFOA and underscores the importance of considering them in related assessments. The aggregated risk assessment reflects actual exposure circumstances more accurately. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interaction between the underwater suspended vehicle and the ISWs at different submergence depth is investigated. When the vehicle is above the pycnocline, the surge motion is dominant. While under the pycnocline, the heave displacement will become more significant. The closer it is to the pycnocline, the more drastic the variations of heave displacement and pitch angle will be. As the heave displacement continues to increase, the vehicle will experience the serious 'falling deep' accident. To reduce the occurrence of such situations, different control strategies are applied to the vehicle. The control effect, motion response and hydrodynamic characteristics of the vehicle are explored. The results of the study show that the deflection of the vehicle can be effectively reduced with control. The influences differ significantly when different control parameters are applied. If the control is suitable, the heave displacement of the underwater vehicle can be reduced to nearly zero. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate was used as a stabilizer, and NaOH, TBHP, and benzoyl chloride were used as reactants in the preparation of tert–butyl peroxybenzoate (TBPB) using a two–step process. The process conditions were optimized by a three–factor, three–level Box–Behnken design approach. The results showed that the yield of TBPB achieved 88.93% under the optimum conditions of temperature of 31.50 °C, feeding time of 22.00 min, and NaOH concentration of 15%. The exothermic properties of the synthesis of TBPB were investigated using reaction calorimetry. The thermal decomposition characteristics of reactants and products were analyzed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and accelerating rate calorimetry (ARC), and the changes in substance types, characteristic peaks, and exothermic quantities during the reaction were analyzed before and after the reaction by FTIR. The reaction mechanism was proposed by combining EasyMax 102, RC1e, gas chromatography (GC), and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR). A comprehensive study of the reaction mechanism and reaction exotherm was carried out using density functional theory (DFT) to predict the reaction energy change and the direction of the reaction and to determine whether the reaction was reversible or not. The risk level for the synthesis of TBPB in semi–batch mode was evaluated using a risk matrix and the Stoessel criticality diagram. The optimal conditions for the TBPB synthesis process in a plate microreactor were explored. Both microreactors and semi–batch modes were comparatively analyzed using the m–ITHI quantitative assessment method. The results indicated a hazard class 2 in semi–batch mode and a hazard class 1 in the microreactor. The results of the study may provide a reference for the further improvement of the intrinsically safe design of the synthetic TBPB process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coronary artery aneurysms (CAAs) are morphologically classified as saccular and fusiform. There is still a great deal of clinical controversy as to which types of CAA are more likely to cause thrombosis. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to evaluate the trend of thrombus growth in CAAs with different morphologies and to assess the risk of possible long-term complications based on hemodynamic parameters. Utilizing computed tomography angiography (CTA) data from eight healthy coronary arteries, two distinct morphologies of coronary artery aneurysms (CAAs) were reconstructed. Distribution of four wall shear stress (WSS)-based indicators and three helicity indicators was analyzed in this study. Meanwhile, a thrombus growth model was introduced to analyze the thrombus formation in CAAs with different morphologies. The research results showed the distribution of most WSS indicators between saccular and fusiform CAAs was not statistically significant. However, due to the presence of a more pronounced helical flow pattern, irregular helical flow structure and longer time of flow stagnation in saccular CAAs during the cardiac cycle, the mean and maximum relative residence time (RRT) were significantly higher in saccular CAAs than in fusiform CAAs (P < 0.05). This may increase the risk of saccular coronary arteries leading to aneurysmal dilatation or even rupture. Although the two CAAs had similar rates of thrombosis, fusiform CAAs may more early cause obstruction of the main coronary flow channel where the aneurysm is located due to thrombosis growth. Thus, the risk of thrombosis in fusiform coronary aneurysms may warrant greater clinical concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mechanistic understanding of free radical polymerization (FRP) in aqueous solution is hindered by the lack of kinetic coefficient data. Here, we investigated the propagation rate coefficient (kp) for FRP of HEMA in aqueous solution. The kp at 80 °C increased by 6 times as the monomer weight fraction in aqueous system decreases from 100 wt.% to 6 wt.%, that is., from 6.0 × 103 to 3.3 × 104 L·moL−1·s−1. This increase in kp is associated with the increase in pre‐exponential factor (A), which suggests an increase in entropy with increasing water molecules in the polymerization system. To investigate the effect of solvent on kp, pulse‐laser polymerization in solvents of different hydrogen bonding affinity, that is, 50 wt.% butyl propionate (BP) and dimethyl formamide (DMF), are conducted. The kp obtained are in order of kp,bulk∼kp,BP > kp,DMF, suggesting that the intermolecular hydrogen bonding at carbonyl moieties critically affects the geometry of transition state quasi‐equilibrium in propagation. We underpinned this observation by analyzing the carbonyl and alkene moieties of HEMA in different solvents using infrared (IR) spectroscopy. The mechanistic analyses and insights relating to hydrogen bonding and functional moieties can be relevant for future studies involving non‐aqueous solvents promoting hydrogen bonds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the prevalence and danger of organophosphorus flame retardants (OPFRs) have drawn attention from all around the world. This study examined twenty-five OPFRs observed in water and sediment samples from the Qiantang River in eastern China, as well as their occurrence, spatial distribution, possible origins, and ecological hazards. All the 25 OPFRs were detected in water and sediment samples. The levels of Σ25OPFRs in water and sediment were 35.5–192 ng/L and 8.84–48.5 ng/g dw, respectively. Chlorinated OPFRs were the main contributions in water, whereas alkyl-OPFRs were the most common congeners found in sediment. Spatial analysis revealed that sample locations in neighboring cities had somewhat higher water concentrations of OPFRs. Slowing down the river current and making the reservoir the main sink of OPFRs, the dam can prevent OPFRs from moving via the Qiantang River. Positive matrix factorization indicated that plasticizer in polyvinyl chloride, polyester resins, and polyurethane foam made the greatest contributions in water, whereas polyurethane foam and textile were the predominant source in sediment. Analysis of sediment–water exchange of OPFRs showed that twelve OPFRs in sediments can re-enter into the water body. The risk quotients showed the ecological risk was low to medium, but trixylyl phosphate exposures posed high ecological risk to aquatic organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study attempts to measure RMB real effective exchange rate (REER) equilibrium and its associated degree of misalignments for China using the behavioral equilibrium exchange rate (BEER) and permanent equilibrium exchange rate approaches. We use a range of economic fundamentals and employ yearly data covering the period 1980–2020, and apply the Johansen Cointegration test and other econometric methods for the study purpose. We find evidence of the existence of RMB real effective exchange rate equilibrium, and for most of the periods, the RMB REER is closer to its equilibrium level. We also find that the RMB REER misaligned with its equilibrium producing episodes of undervaluation and overvaluation, but the magnitude of the misalignments is small and the BEER approach produces a lower degree of misalignments. This suggests that the RMB undervaluation is moderate and not as exaggerated. We identify that the economic fundamentals used in this study are important determinants of RMB real effective exchange rate equilibrium. In line with the above, the study recommends that China may continue using its RMB exchange rate as its policy tool, but the policymakers should focus on the core fundamentals that derived the equilibrium exchange rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous research on the perception of segmental features of languages has established a correlation between the phoneme inventory of a language and its speakers' perceptual abilities, as indexed by discrimination tasks and Mismatch Negativity (MMN). Building on this background, the current study elucidated the relationship between perceptual ability and tonal inventory by utilizing two tonal languages. Two groups of participants were included in the present experiment: Mandarin speakers and Hakka-Mandarin speakers. Onset latency analysis revealed a significant difference in the Mandarin syllable condition, with Hakka-Mandarin speakers demonstrating earlier MMN latency than Mandarin speakers. This suggests a more efficient auditory processing mechanism in Hakka-Mandarin speakers. Both groups, however, showed similar MMN latency in the Hakka syllable condition. The interaction between language background and syllable type indicates that other factors, such as syllable sonority, also influence MMN responses. These findings highlight the importance of considering multiple phonemic inventories and syllable characteristics in studies of tonal perception. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: It is well known that there are significant differences in the prevalence of chronic pain between males and females. Human and animal imaging studies have shown that chronic pain profoundly alters the structure and function of brain regions. However, there is limited research on the sex-specific mechanisms underlying the brain plasticity and adaptive changes associated with chronic pain. In this article, we conducted a multimodal study to evaluate how nerve injury-induced chronic pain affects the brain. Methods: Male and female Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats with spared nerve injury (SNI) model underwent resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) (male sham group: n = 18; male SNI group: n = 18; female sham group: n = 20; female SNI group: n = 18) and magnetic resonance diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) (male sham group: n = 23; male SNI group: n = 21; female sham group: n = 20; female SNI group: n = 21) scanning. ICA method, Fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (fALFF), immunofluorescence staining, and graph theory analysis was utilized to extract the rs-fMRI changes of brain regions of each group. Results: Using SNI model, which promotes long-lasting mechanical allodynia, we found that neuropathic pain deeply modified the intrinsic organization of the brain functional network in male and female rats (main effect of operation: F = 298.449, P < 0.001). 64 independent components (ICs) in the brain were divided and assigned to 16 systems. In male rats, we observed significant alterations in the microstructure of the hippocampal cornu ammonis 1 and cornu ammonis 2 (CA1/CA2) region, as indicated by increased mean diffusivity (MD) (CA1_L: P = 0.02; CA1_R: P = 0.031; CA2_L: P = 0.035; CA2_R: P = 0.015) and radial diffusivity (RD) (CA1_L: P = 0.028; CA1_R: P = 0.033; CA2_L: P = 0.037; CA2_R: P = 0.038) values, along with enhanced activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3) expression. Conversely, in female rats, we found significant increases in the fractional amplitude of low frequency fluctuations (fALFF) value within the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) (F = 5.419, P = 0.023), accompanied by elevated c-Fos signal (F = 6.269, P = 0.031). Furthermore, graph theory analysis revealed notable differences in the small-world network of the hippocampal system in female rats, characterized by reduced small-world attributes and increased inter-nodal transmission efficiency. Discussion: Our study indicates sex differences in structural and functional alterations in the hippocampal system in rats under chronic pain conditions. The results suggest that the hippocampus system plays an important role in the different mechanisms of chronic pain in different sexes. These findings provide reliable insights to explore the complex mechanisms underlying sex differences in chronic pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]