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Neomicrocalamus and Temochloa are closely-related genera for which ‘inflorescence’ structures were incompletely understood and difficult to reconcile. After re-examining the inflorescence morphology, the so-called ‘spikelets’ of both genera as described should instead be recognised as pseudospikelets with mostly inactive axillary buds. The new bamboo taxa, comprising two varieties of a new species, are placed in Temochloa, representing a new genus record for China and Vietnam.

Abstract Background Pseudomonas juntendi is a newly identified opportunistic pathogen, of which we have limited understanding. P. juntendi strains are often multidrug resistant, which complicates clinical management of infection. Methods A strain of Pseudomonas juntendi (strain L4326) isolated from feces was characterized by MALDI-TOF-MS and Average Nucleotide Identity BLAST. This strain was further subject to whole-genome sequencing and Maximum Likelihood phylogenetic analysis. The strain was phenotypically characterized by antimicrobial susceptibility testing and conjugation assays. Results We have isolated the novel P. juntendi strain L4236, which was multidrug resistant, but retained sensitivity to amikacin. L4236 harbored a megaplasmid that encoded bla OXA−1 and a novel bla IMP−1 resistance gene variant. P. juntendi strain L4236 was phylogenetically related to P. juntendi strain SAMN30525517. Conclusion A rare P. juntendi strain was isolated from human feces in southern China with a megaplasmid coharboring bla IMP−1−like and bla OXA−1. Antimicrobial selection pressures may have driven acquisition of drug-resistance gene mutations and carriage of the megaplasmid.

The consumption value seems to be insufficient to explain consumers' domestic electric vehicle purchase behaviour, especially in a highly competitive global environment. This study aims to investigate how consumer ethnocentrism and perceived interactivity influence consumption value and pro-environmental value, subsequently affecting attitude and intention. A total of 353 valid questionnaires were collected through convenience sampling in Xuzhou, China, and the partial least square (PLS) path modelling approach was performed to test the hypotheses. The results show that consumer ethnocentrism and perceived interactivity positively influence function value, emotional value, and social value; perceived interactivity also positively influences altruistic value, biospheric value, and collectivistic value. Function value, social value, and collectivistic value positively influence attitude; however, emotional value, altruistic value and biospheric value did not find a correlation with attitude. Furthermore, attitude positively influences intention to adopt domestic electric vehicles. Finally, the theoretical and practical implications, as well as limitations were discussed accordingly.

A large spontaneous mass on the dorsal abdomen near the hip joint was found in an aged female Tupaia belangeri subsp. yaoshanensis after 5 years of routine feeding. The tumor in the diseased tree shrew was huge, with an intact surface and no ulceration; however, it caused inconvenience in movement while maintaining a good mental state. After inhalation anesthesia with isoflurane (2%-4%), the tree shrew was euthanized after the tree shrew entered deep anesthesia. Anatomical dissection of the tumor, the tumor boundary was unclear and infiltrated into surrounding tissues. HE staining showed that small focal pleomorphism and large areas of adipocytes were seen in the tumor tissue. The pleomorphic sarcoma area was mainly composed of atypical epithelioid cells with easily visible nuclear divisions. The size of the adipocytes was significantly different, and more pleomorphic adipocytes were seen. The cell volume was large, the nucleus was deeply stained and deformed, the edge was impressed, and the cytoplasm was seen with multiple vesicular lipid droplets. Immunohistochemical results showed that the tumor cells were positive for Vimentin, the small focal polymorphic adipocyte nucleus was positive for S-100, and Ki-67 exhibited a higher proportion of positivity. Combined with HE staining and immunohistochemical results, the spontaneous tumor in this tree shrew was comprehensively diagnosed as pleomorphic liposarcoma.

This 2024 Special Issue of Aerospace, an open-access journal from MDPI, is entitled “Shock-Dominated Flow” and was guest-edited by Dr [...]

Objective To explore the prognostic value of pretreatment hematological indicators in children and adolescents with nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis on the medical records of 79 children and adolescents (≤20 years old) with nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Before treatment, all patients underwent hematological tests, and patients received intensity-modulated radiotherapy alone or intensity-modulated radiotherapy combined with chemotherapy, targeted, and other comprehensive treatment modes. The follow-up endpoints were overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Results Age≤14 years, no concurrent chemotherapy, pretreatment hematological indicators (high NLR, high PLR, high LDH, and high LAR) were associated with poor OS and PFS in children and adolescents with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (all P < 0.05). No concurrent chemotherapy and high LAR before treatment were independent adverse prognostic factors for OS in children and adolescents with nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Conclusion High NLR, high PLR, high LDH, and high LAR of pretreatment hematological indicators are associated with poor OS and PFS. Meanwhile, high LAR before treatment is an independent adverse prognostic factor for OS in children and adolescents with nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

Background and purpose: Circular RNA (circRNA) plays an important regulatory role in the development of a variety of tumors. However, the abnormal expression and biological function of circRNA in nasopharyngeal carcinoma remain unclear. This study aimed to explore the effect of hsa_circ_0012779 on the biological behavior of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells and its molecular mechanism. Methods: The expression of hsa_circ_0012779 in human immortalized nasopharyngeal epithelial cell line NP69 and nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell lines CNE2, 5-8F, HNE1 and SUNE1 was detected by real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RTFQ-PCR). Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and transwell invasion assay were used to detect the effect of hsa_circ_0012779 on the proliferation and invasion ability of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells. The protein level of ELAV like protein 1 (ELAVL1) in NPC cells with hsa_circ_0012779 knockdown was detected by Western blot. The binding of hsa_circ_0012779 and ELAVL1 was verified by RNA pull-down assay. Results: hsa_circ_0012779 was highly expressed in nasopharyngeal carcinoma tissues and cells. Knockdown hsa_circ_0012779 could inhibit the proliferation and invasion of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells. hsa_circ_0012779 bound to RNA-binding protein ELAVL1 to promote its expression and colocalization in cytoplasm. In the meanwhile, the effect of knockdown hsa_circ_0012779 on nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells could be reversed by the overexpression of ELAVL1. Conclusion: hsa_circ_0012779 promote the expression of ELAVL1 and thus promote the proliferation and invasion of nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and influence the occurrence and development of nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

The results of phylogenetic analysis, based on the whole chloroplast genome and morphological study support the transfer of a long ignored bamboo species, Sasa gracilis, to the recently established genus, Sinosasa, in this study. Morphologically, this species differs from all the other known Sinosasa species by having very short (2–3 mm) foliage leaf inner ligules, which is unusual in this genus. A revised description of its morphology and colour photos are also provided.

Sasa oblongula was described in 1987 based on a cultivated plant at the bamboo garden of Sun Yat-sen University. This species has two or three branches at the upper nodes, which differ from the rest of Sasa species that have a single branch per node. During the field trip to Baishi Town, Yunfu City, Guangdong Province in July 2021, one bamboo species with oblong foliage leaves was collected and matches the isotype. Then, our question was to test the identity of S. oblongula concerning other Sasa species based on morphology and molecular data. To do that, we sequenced the whole chloroplast genome of S. oblongula and did a phylogenetic analysis. Our morphological results indicate that the new collection is S. oblongula. The phylogenetic tree showed that S. oblongula is close to Pseudosasa, instead of Sasa species. Therefore, we transferred it to the genus Pseudosasa, and a revised description of P. oblongula is provided here.

Abstract Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent regulated cell death that suppresses tumor growth. It is activated by extensive peroxidation of membrane phospholipids caused by oxidative stress. GPX4, an antioxidant enzyme, reduces these peroxidized membrane phospholipids thereby inhibiting ferroptosis. This enzyme has two distinct subcellular localization; the cytosol and mitochondria. Dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH) complements mitochondrial GPX4 in reducing peroxidized membrane phospholipids. It is the rate-limiting enzyme in de novo pyrimidine nucleotide biosynthesis. Its role in ferroptosis inhibition suggests that DHODH inhibitors could have two complementary mechanisms of action against tumors; inhibiting de novo pyrimidine nucleotide biosynthesis and enhancing ferroptosis. However, the link between mitochondrial function and ferroptosis, and the involvement of DHODH in the ETC suggests that its role in ferroptosis could be modulated by the Warburg effect. Therefore, we reviewed relevant literature to get an insight into the possible effect of this metabolic reprogramming on the role of DHODH in ferroptosis. Furthermore, an emerging link between DHODH and cellular GSH pool has also been highlighted. These insights could contribute to the rational design of ferroptosis-based anticancer drugs. Video Abstract

This paper uses cointegration test and vector error correction model to study the impact of preschool education investment in Chongqing on GDP from two aspects: long-term equilibrium and short-term dynamics. The results show that although the two series are non-stationary from 1997 to 2019, there is a long-term stable equilibrium relationship, as well as a twoway causal relationship, between them. The long-term elasticity of Chongqing’s preschool education investment to the city’s GDP is 0.515, and the short-term elasticity is −0.035. The impulse response function explains the dynamic impact of a shock on Chongqing’s preschool education investment, as well as on the long-term and short-term relationship between the two.

Neomicrocalamus and Temochloa are closely related to bamboo genera. However, when considered with newly discovered and morphologically similar material from China and Vietnam, the phylogenetic relationship among these three groups was ambiguous in the analyses based on DNA regions. Here, as a means of investigating the relationships among the three bamboo groups and exploring potential sources of genomic conflicts, we present a phylogenomic examination based on the whole plastome, single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), and single-copy nuclear (SCN) gene datasets. Three different phylogenetic hypotheses were found. The inconsistency is attributed to the combination of incomplete lineage sorting and introgression. The origin of newly discovered bamboos is from introgressive hybridization between Temochloa liliana (which contributed 80.7% of the genome) and Neomicrocalamus prainii (19.3%), indicating that the newly discovered bamboos are closer to T. liliana in genetics. The more similar morphology and closer distribution elevation also imply a closer relationship between Temochloa and newly discovered bamboos.

The numerical simulation of a typical two-dimensional hypersonic inlet was carried out to study the effects of configuration and slot angle of the bleed system on the performance of hypersonic inlet. It is found that the use of more bleed slots can achieve a greater increase in total pressure recovery coefficient with less flow loss on the premise that the total flow path height remains unchanged, and the greatest total pressure recovery can be achieved with single flow path height lower than 0.4Hth. Furthermore the bleed flow rate decreases with the increase of the slot angle when 30° ≤ θ ≤ 120°, and increases when 120° ≤ θ ≤ 150°. The result also shows that the total pressure recovery coefficient of throat decreases while the throat pressure ratio increases with the increase of the slot angle when 30° ≤ θ ≤ 150°. Therefore, the use of multiple bleed slots with single flow path height of 0.2Hth to 0.4Hth is re-commended, and the slot angle can be selected according to actual needs.

Pseudosasa was confirmed as polyphyletic by recent phylogenetic analyses, with Chinese species of Pseudosasa distantly related to those from Japan. Among the Chinese species of Pseudosasa, Pseudosasa pubiflora is a morphologically unique as well as taxonomically problematic species endemic to South China, of which the generic designation is still uncertain. Molecular analyses based on both plastid and nuclear genomic data demonstrated that this species is closest to the recently published genus Sinosasa. Morphologically, the two are somewhat similar to each other in flowering branches developing at the nodes of every order of branches, raceme-like units of inflorescence with 3–5 short spikelets, each spikelet with few florets including a rudimentary one at the apex, and each floret with 3 stamens and 2 stigmas. However, P. pubiflora is very different from Sinosasa species in many reproductive and vegetative characters, such as the morphology of paracladia (lateral spikelet “pedicels”), the absence or existence of pulvinus at the base of paracladia, the relative length of the upper glume and the lowest lemma, the shape of lodicules and primary culm buds, the branch complement, the morphology of nodes, culm leaves and dried foliage leaf blades, and the number of foliage leaves per ultimate branchlet. The morphological and molecular evidence warrants recognition of a new genus to accommodate this unique species, which is here named Kengiochloa. After consulting related literature and examination of herbarium specimens or specimen photos, a taxonomic revision of K. pubiflora and its synonyms was made, and it was confirmed that four names, viz. P. gracilis, Yushania lanshanensis, Arundinaria tenuivagina and P. parilis, should be merged with K. pubiflora, while Indocalamus pallidiflorus and Acidosasa paucifolia are distinct species.

ObjectiveTo describe the serological surveillance results of human brucellosis in Ganzhou City， Jiangxi Province from 2018 to 2021， characterize the epidemic and current situation of brucellosis， and to provide scientific evidence for effective prevention and control of brucellosis.MethodsSurveillance data of human brucellosis serological testing was collected in Ganzhou City from 2018 to 2021. Spatial， temporal， and demographic distribution was further determined.ResultsFrom 2018 to 2021， a total of 42 humans serologically positive for brucellosis were reported from 18 counties （cities and districts） in Ganzhou City， including 26 males and 16 females with a gender ratio of 1.6∶1. The number of serologically positive cases showed a decreasing trend， with the positive rate decreasing from 46.43% in 2018 to 33.33% in 2021. Majority of the cases （54.00%） aged 40‒ years old. Furthermore， the number of serologically positive cases varied by month； majority of the cases （80.95%） was from April to August. Additionally， a total of 10 counties （cities and districts） reported serologically positive cases of brucellosis， among which the top 3 counties （cities and districts） by cumulative number of positive cases were Zhanggong District （18 cases）， Dayu County（5 cases）， and Longnan City（4 cases）.ConclusionSerologically positive cases of human brucellosis decrease in Ganzhou， in which the incidence of male cases is generally higher than female cases. The seasonality of human brucellosis is in spring and summer. At-risk population is 40‒ years old. Additionally， at-risk areas are southwest and central areas of Ganzhou.

Sasa tomentosa is transferred to the genus Yushania following a reassessment based on a new collection with pachymorph and long-necked rhizomes from its type locality in Guangxi, China. Morphologically, it is most similar to Yushania doupengshanensis, but differs in culm, branch complement and foliage leaf characters. A revised description of its morphology and color photos are also provided.

Due to their specialised flowering biology where frequent or even annual flowering is uncommon, reproductive materials of bamboos are not always available, so hampering taxonomic interpretation and research into other aspects. Bambusa contracta, B. corniculata, B. cornigera and B. subtruncata were established only based on vegetative materials and flowering or fruiting material has been hitherto unknown. The floral morphology of these four species is described for the first time and, correspondingly, epitypes are designated to support a more complete interpretation of the species.

Understanding the immunological characteristics of monocytes—including the characteristics associated with fibrosis—in severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is crucial for understanding the pathogenic mechanism of the disease and preventing disease severity. In this study, we performed single-cell transcriptomic sequencing of peripheral blood samples collected from six healthy controls and 14 COVID-19 samples including severe, moderate, and convalescent samples from three severely/critically ill and four moderately ill patients. We found that the monocytes were strongly remodeled in the severely/critically ill patients with COVID-19, with an increased proportion of monocytes and seriously reduced diversity. In addition, we discovered two novel severe-disease-specific monocyte subsets: Mono 0 and Mono 5. These subsets expressed amphiregulin (AREG), epiregulin (EREG), and cytokine interleukin-18 (IL-18) gene, exhibited an enriched erythroblastic leukemia viral oncogene homolog (ErbB) signaling pathway, and appeared to exhibit pro-fibrogenic and pro-inflammation characteristics. We also found metabolic changes in Mono 0 and Mono 5, including increased glycolysis/gluconeogenesis and an increased hypoxia inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) signaling pathway. Notably, one pre-severe sample displayed a monocyte atlas similar to that of the severe/critical samples. In conclusion, our study discovered two novel severe-disease-specific monocyte subsets as potential predictors and therapeutic targets for severe COVID-19. Overall, this study provides potential predictors for severe disease and therapeutic targets for COVID-19 and thus provides a resource for further studies on COVID-19.

The objective of this work is to elucidate the flowering structures of Chinese bamboos applying the synflorescence concept. To keep in line with grasses, the bamboo synflorescence is defined as a whole culm or a whole branch terminating in an inflorescence. For the first time, the repetitive and fundamental unit of bamboo synflorescences is clearly identified and termed as the “basic flowering branch”. The basic flowering branch could be considered as the most simplified synflorescence for a bamboo species. Applying the synflorescence concept, the pseudospikelet is interpreted as a sort of basic flowering branch rather than a spikelet. Consequently, the synflorescence development pattern is consistent throughout the whole family. This study also marks the first recognition of both pseudospikelets and true spikelet flowering branches within the same bamboo synflorescence, which is observed in the genera Brachystachyum, Semiarundinaria and Menstruocalamus.

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), a rare chronic cholestatic liver disease, is characterized by intrahepatic or extrahepatic strictures accompanied by biliary fibrosis. So far, there are no effective therapies to slow down the progression of this disease. Farnesoid X receptors (FXRs) are ligand-activated transcription factors involved in the control of bile acid (BA) synthesis and enterohepatic circulation. Therefore, targeting FXRs holds promise as a potential approach for treating PSC. Pediococcus pentosaceus Li05 is a probiotic that was isolated from healthy volunteers and has previously been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect in DSS-induced colitis. In this study, we established a 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-Dihydrocollidine (DDC)-induced cholestasis mouse model and investigated the effects of Pediococcus pentosaceus Li05 on PSC. Our findings revealed that administration of Li05 significantly attenuated liver damage, hepatic inflammation, and fibrosis, as well as bile duct hyperplasia. Li05 activated the hepatic FXR-SHP and ileal FXR-FGF15 signaling pathways to decrease the expression of Cyp7a1. In addition, the Li05-modulated gut microbiota structure especially improved the abundance of 7α-dehydroxylation bacteria like Eubacterium. The intervention of Li05 also improved the intestinal barrier and reduced bacterial endotoxin translocation. Based on these findings, Li05 shows promise for future application as a therapeutic strategy for cholestasis.

The rare earth conversion film has attracted more and more attention in recent years because of its good corrosion resistance and non - toxicity. The concept and film forming mechanism of rare earth conversion film were briefly introduced, and the application of rare earth in corrosion prevention for ferrous metals as well as the nonferrous metals of aluminum, magnesium, zinc and their alloys was summarized. This study found that the corrosion resistance of composite rare earth conversion film was better than that of the single rare earth conversion film. Moreover, it also explained the reason why cerium conversion film had better corrosion resistance than other rare earth conversion films. Finally, it pointed out that the composite rare earth conversion film, rare earth composite alloy coating and densification of rare earth conversion film would be the development direction.

A new species, Fordiophyton tereticaule, from China, is described and illustrated here based on morphological and molecular evidence. It is morphologically similar to F. faberi in having erect stems, slightly oblique and membranous leaf blades, broadly ovate to suborbicular bracts, and oblong petals, but differs by the terete stems, densely puberulous petioles, and elliptic leaf blades. Our phylogenetic analyses based on plastid genome and nrITS data indicate that this new species is clustered with four Fordiophyton species of Yunnan but placed far apart from F. faberi. An updated key to the genus is also provided.

This study elucidates the taxonomic position of Indosasa sangzhiensis in considering whether it belongs to Indosasa or Chimonobambusa. Based on morphological and molecular phylogenetic evidence, our results explicitly indicated that I. sangzhiensis should be a member of Chimonobambusa, rather than Indosasa, and is a distinct species closely related to C. communis, C. opienensis and C. puberula. Thus, the new combination Chimonobambusa sangzhiensis (B.M.Yang) N.H.Xia & Z.Y.Niu is made. A detailed description as well as two color plates of this species are also provided.

The ketogenic diet (KD) has emerged as a popular weight-loss regimen in recent years. However, it has been confirmed to elicit a mild inflammatory response in the intestinal epithelium and exacerbate various digestive disorders. The severity of acute pancreatitis (AP) is closely associated with the permeability of the intestinal epithelium and gut microbiota, yet the impact of KD on acute pancreatitis remains unclear. In this study, we induced acute pancreatitis using L-arginine in mice fed with KD. The consumption of KD resulted in an elevation of lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), accompanied by upregulated cytokines (IL-1a, IL-5, IL-12, MIP-1a, and Rantes) and dysfunction of the intestinal barrier both in control and AP groups. The bloom of Lachnospirales and Erysipelotrichales was observed as a specific profile of gut microbiota in KD-fed mice with AP, along with downregulation of carbohydrate metabolism and depletion of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Antibiotic decontamination reduced the cytokine storm and tissue necrosis but did not significantly improve the integrity of the intestinal barrier in KD-fed mice with AP. The overgrowth of Mycoplasmatales in feces and Enterobacterales in colonic tissue appears to explain the limitation of antibiotic treatment to aggravate acute pancreatitis. Butyrate supplementation attenuated the depletion of SCFAs, promoted the intestinal barrier, and reduced the necrotic area in AP mice. The bloom of Bacteroidales and the correlated increase in tryptophan metabolism explain the therapeutic potential of butyrate supplements for acute pancreatitis. In conclusion, our findings suggest that the ketogenic diet exacerbates acute pancreatitis through its impact on the gut microbiota and subsequent disruption of the intestinal barrier, while butyrate supplementation reverses this effect.

Acute lung injury (ALI) causes lung inflammation and edema as well as resulting in gut microbiota disorder. Probiotics, however, can improve the gut microbiota composition and modulate its immune response, playing an important role in ALI pathogenesis. Therefore, our study aims to investigate the effect of Lactobacillus reuteri on Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI in mice and to probe the mechanism of its synergistic modulatory effect on the lungs and intestines. We assessed the therapeutic effects of L. reuteri in the ALI mouse model by histopathology, alveolar lavage fluid and serum inflammatory factor analysis and explored microbiome and transcriptome alterations. L. reuteri intervention effectively attenuated lung tissue injury and significantly reduced the LPS-induced inflammatory response and macrophage and neutrophil infiltration. Additionally, L. reuteri improved the intestinal barrier function and remodeled the disordered microbiota. In conclusion, our study showed that L. reuteri attenuated the inflammatory response, ameliorated the pulmonary edema, repaired the intestinal barrier, and remodeled the gut microbiota in ALI mice. This study provides new perspectives on the clinical treatment of ALI.

AIM: To analyze the correlation between macular morphology and function in eyes with diabetic macular edema (DME). METHODS: Fifty-five eyes with different visual acuity (VA) of 32 patients who suffered from DME were analyzed using multifocal electroretinography (mfERG) and optical coherence tomography (OCT). The parameters of mfERG including implicit times and response amplitude were compared to those of 50 normal eyes of 36 age-matched subjects. Correlation analysis was performed between VA, the parameters of mfERG including implicit times and response amplitude, and the central macular thickness (CMT). RESULTS: The amplitude of N1 and P1 were significantly decreased and their latency were significantly increased in five ring regions of the retina in patients with DME. There was statistically significant correlation between logMAR BCVA and P1 amplitude densities in rings 1-4 (r=-0.306, -0.536, -0.470, -0.362; P=0.023, 0.05) in the central macular ring. Multiple stepwise regression analysis showed that P1 amplitude density in ring 2 was the only contributor to the VA. CONCLUSION: It seems to be more appropriate of combining use of mfERG with OCT for the evaluation of macular function in eyes with DME.

A new genus of Arundinarieae, Khoonmengia, is established to accommodate a unique new bamboo species, K. honbaensis, from central-southern Vietnam. The morphological features, habitats and distribution of Khoonmengia and related genera, i.e. Ampelocalamus and Hsuehochloa, are compared. The characters of its scrambling habit, internodes with brownish green dots, conspicuous nodes swollen at one side, elliptic buds wholly sunken into culm, extravaginal branching pattern, mid-culm branch complement with one central dominant branch elongating to reiterate the culm accompanied by several lateral slender branches, swollen culm sheath base with a distinctive zone of transverse wrinkles, synflorescence composed of only one spikelet, single or several to many synflorescences arranged into a raceme or panicle terminal on leafy branches, purple anthers and nut-like caryopsis with hardened pericarp and loosely adherent lemma and palea distinguish K. honbaensis from morphologically similar taxa. In order to investigate the phylogenetic position of this unknown bamboo, molecular phylogenetic analyses based on the nuclear gene GBSSI were also conducted, and the results proved that K. honbaensis is definitely a member of Arundinarieae with an isolated position, which also indicated that this species could not be assigned to any of the already described genera and supported the establishment of the new genus.

Schizostachyum dakrongense is a new species of woody bamboo from Dakrong Nature Reserve, Quang Tri Province, central Vietnam. It is closely related to S. hainanense but differs by its pseudospikelets having terminal rachilla segments with ciliate margin and 6 bracts; culm sheath with the base of the outer margin having a slight projection below its point of attachment at the node, as well as sheath blades usually less than half as long as the culm sheath proper; and leaf blades pale-puberulent and sparsely pilosulous on the abaxial surface. The new species is described and illustrated here.

Silicon-derived biomaterials are conducive to regulating the fate of osteo-related stem cells, while their effects on the osteogenic differentiation of human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs) remain inconclusive. Mesoporous silica (mSiO2) is synthesized in a facile route that exhibited the capability of promoting osteogenic differentiation of hADSCs. The metabolism of SiO2 in cells is proposed according to the colocalization fluorescence analysis between lysosomes and nanoparticles. The released silicon elements promote osteogenic differentiation. The detection of secretory proteins through numerous parallel experiments performed via a microfluidic chip confirms the positive effect of SiO2 on the osteogenic differentiation of hADSCs. Moreover, constructed with superparamagnetic iron oxide (Fe3O4), the magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) of Fe3O4@mSiO2 endow the cells with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) properties. The MNP-regulated osteogenic differentiation of autologous adipose-derived stem cells provides considerable clinical application prospects for stem cell therapy of bone tissue repair with an effective reduction in immune rejection.

The traffic capacity of the urban elevated bridge is assessed after it is attacked by a near-field explosion, using the residual bearing capacity of the damaged pier as the assessment index. First, the finite element model of a reinforced concrete slab under near-field explosion is established by ANSYS/LS-DYNA software and compared with the experimental results, which verifies the effectiveness of the ALE (arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian) algorithm and the accuracy of the mesh size and material properties. Then, an “explosive-air-pier” coupling analysis model is constructed using the finite element method, and the damage of the reinforced concrete pier under three types of car bombs is evaluated. Furthermore, a response surface model for the residual bearing capacity of the pier is utilized to calculate the failure probabilities of various damage levels of the pier under the three types of car bombs and to assess the traffic capacity of the bridge after near-field explosion. The established assessment method can be used to predict the probability of bridge structural damage at various levels under different types of car bombs and to provide a reference for exploring a probability-based safety assessment method of post-explosion bridges.

Gastric juice pH is an important factor affecting the dissolution of small molecular targeted drugs (SMTD) in vivo, and the antiacid drugs (AD) can affect the solubility of SMTD by altering pH in the stomach. When the solubility is high, the absorption of the medicine is better; otherwise, if the solubility is low, the absorption of the medicine is poor. In order to investigate the effect of AD on the absorption of SMTD, electronic database were searched for the related articles. According to the related articles, it can see that dasatinib, erlotinib, gefitinib, lapatinib and nilotinib are significantly affected, which indicated that attention should be paid to the effect of AD on the absorption of SMTD, to avoid reducing the bioavailability and efficacy of SMTD.

Editorial of special issue of plant diversity in southeastern Asia.

The train-bridge dynamic interaction problem began with the development of railway technology, and requires an evaluation method for bridge design in order to ensure the safety and stability of the bridge and the running train. This problem is studied using theoretical analysis, numerical simulation, and experimental study. In the train-bridge dynamic interaction system proposed in this paper, the train vehicle model is established by the rigid-body dynamics method, the bridge model is established by the finite element method, and the wheel/rail vertical and lateral interaction are simulated by the corresponding assumption and the Kalker linear creep theory, respectively. Track irregularity, structure deformation, wind load, collision load, structural damage, foundation scouring, and earthquake action are regarded as the excitation for the system. The train-bridge dynamic interaction system is solved by inter-history iteration. A case study of the dynamic response of a CRH380BL high-speed train running through a standard-design bridge in China is discussed. The dynamic responses of the vehicle and of the bridge subsystems are obtained for speeds ranging from 200 km·h−1 to 400 km·h−1, and the vibration mechanism are analyzed.

Vibration prediction plays a vital role in the environmental assessment of new railway lines and the vibration analysis of new buildings near railway lines. We use theoretical analysis, numerical simulation, and field experiment, which can help predict vibration with high accuracy. These methods have their own advantages, but are time-consuming or costlier. This article outlines a fast, high-accuracy prediction method combining the advantages of numerical simulation, experiment, and artificial neural network. The method takes artificial neural network as one of the supervised machine learnings, and it is founded upon a fully validated three-dimensional finite element model. First, establish a three-dimensional finite element model using ANSYS software and generate series of samples by changing field conditions. Then, create an artificial neural network and train it by the samples obtained from FEM and experiment. Finally, use the artificial neural network that has been trained to predict the level of vibration on certain conditions. The result states that the predicted method can control the maximum error below 6.41% and the average error below 2.29% when it is used to predict acceleration vibration level. An advantage of this method is that it spends zero time on predicting vibration level. A key benefit from this decreased prediction time is that it potentially reduces the detailed vibration analyses required for a new train line so that it can reduce project costs. In addition, it could also consider the effect of soil parameters.

Objective To observe the clinical efficacy of multipoint radiofrequency thermal coagulation on trigeminal neuralgia management. Methods 180 patients diagnosed as primary trigeminal neuralgia were included in this study. The patients were randomly divided into three groups, 60 patients in treatment group, 60 patients in the first control group and 60 patients in second control group respectively. Multipoint radiofrequency ablation therapy was utilized in the treatment group, radiofrequency thermal coagulation therapy on trigeminal ganglion was applied in the first control group and patients in second control group were treated by nerve block therapy. Then the curative effect of the three groups after the treatment was compared and analyzed. Results To the curative effects, the VAS score showed insignificant difference between treatment group and the first control group (P>0.05), while an significant difference between treatment group and the second control group (P0.05). Conclusion The minimally invasive multipoint radiofrequency ablation on the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia has significant effect with fewer complications and higher patients safety.

A prediction method in the frequency domain is proposed for predicting the vibrations of historical timber building induced by traffic loads. The modal parameters of a structure are identified using a double-confirmation analysis method based on the autospectrum. Then, the vibration responses of the building are calculated using a limited number of measurement records by inputting the calculated vibration information for the foundation of the updated building model. The proposed method is used to predict the vibrations of the Buddhist sutra depositary at Yangzhou Zhunti Temple. Comparing the results shows that the vibration responses of a structure under traffic loads can be effectively predicted in the relevant frequency bands.

A tissue-engineered endothelial layer was prepared by culturing endothelial cells on a fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2)–l-ascorbic acid phosphate magnesium salt n-hydrate (AsMg)–apatite (Ap) coated titanium plate. The FGF-2–AsMg–Ap coated Ti plate was prepared by immersing a Ti plate in supersaturated calcium phosphate solutions supplemented with FGF-2 and AsMg. The FGF-2–AsMg–Ap layer on the Ti plate accelerated proliferation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), and showed slightly higher, but not statistically significant, nitric oxide release from HUVECs than on as-prepared Ti. The endothelial layer maintained proper function of the endothelial cells and markedly inhibited in vitro platelet adhesion. The tissue-engineered endothelial layer formed on the FGF-2–AsMg–Ap layer is promising for ameliorating platelet activation and thrombus formation on cardiovascular implants.

BackgroundSpinal cord injury (SCI) severely impairs the physical and mental health of patients, decreasing their self-efficacy in coping with daily life and quality of life (QOL). In China, a large gap remains between the complex long-term health needs of SCI patients and the current community care system. With the prevalence of mobile terminals, the usage of mobile health apps has the potential to fill this gap by extending qualified medical resources to the families of SCI patients. Our team developed the app Together for the transitional care of home-dwelling SCI patients in China. ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate the effects of app-based transitional care on the self-efficacy and QOL of SCI patients. MethodsThrough a three-round Delphi process, an Android app was designed. Both medical staff and patients could access the app. Medical staff used it for providing remote transitional care to SCI patients. Patients used it to view transitional care time and send messages to medical staff. Thereafter, a multicenter and assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted. Participants (n=98) who had SCI and lived at home following discharge were recruited and randomly assigned to a study group (n=49) and control group (n=49) using a randomized number list in four research centers. Patients in both groups received systematic discharge education before discharge. The study group received five follow-ups conducted by trained nurses through the app, which had four core functions, namely remote assessment, health education, interdisciplinary referral, and patient interaction, at weeks 2, 4, 6, 8, and 12 following discharge. The control group received a routine telephone follow-up conducted by nurses at week 12 following discharge. The outcome measures were the Moorong Self-Efficacy Scale (MSES) and 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) scores. Data were collected before discharge (T0) and at weeks 12 (T1) and 24 following discharge (T2). Differences between the groups were tested by repeated measures analysis of variance and simple effect analysis. ResultsAfter the follow-up, the total MSES scores in the study group improved over time (T0=67.80, T1=71.90, and T2=76.29) and were higher than those in the control group (T2=64.49) at 24 weeks following discharge (simple effect analysis: F1=8.506, P=.004). Regarding the total SF-36 score, although it was higher in patients from the study group (T2=65.36) than those from the control group (T2=58.77) at 24 weeks following discharge, only time effects were significant (F2,95=6.671, P=.002) and neither the group effects nor the interaction effects influenced the change in QOL (group effects: F1,96=0.082, P=.78; interaction effects: F2,95=3.059, P=.052). ConclusionsThis study confirmed that app-based transitional care improves the self-efficacy of SCI patients. Nevertheless, QOL improvement is not yet evident. Future investigations with larger sample sizes and longer observation periods are warranted to further verify the effects. Trial RegistrationChinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR-IPR-17012317; http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=19828

BackgroundOver half of men who have sex with men (MSM) use geosocial networking (GSN) apps to encounter sex partners. GSN apps’ users have become a unique large subpopulation among MSM for interventions concerning HIV prevention and control. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a promising measure for HIV prevention, especially for MSM, but its effectiveness largely depends on medication adherence. However, little is known about PrEP adherence among GSN apps’ users, which is critical to addressing the overall optimization of PrEP compliance outside of clinical trials in the context of large-scale implementation. ObjectiveThe objective of this study is to understand the correlation between GSN apps’ use and medication adherence among MSM receiving PrEP, with the aim to increase their awareness about PrEP use in order to increase adherence. MethodsThis study based on the China Real-world Oral intake of PrEP (CROPrEP) project, a multicenter, real-world study of Chinese MSM on daily and event-driven PrEP. Eligible participants completed a detailed computer-assisted self-interview on sociodemographic, GSN apps’ use, and sexual behavior. Then participants were followed up for 12 months and assessed for various characteristics (eg, PrEP delivery, adherence assessment, PrEP coverage of sexual activities, and regimens switch). A generalized estimation equation was used to analyze the predictors of medication adherence and regimen conversion among GSN apps’ users and nonusers. ResultsAt baseline, 756 of the 1023 eligible participants (73.90%) reported primarily using GSN apps to seek sexual partners, and GSN apps’ users are more likely to have high-risk behaviors such as multiple sex partners and condomless anal intercourse than other nonusers (all P

BackgroundTelemedicine has been used widely in China and has benefited a large number of patients, but little is known about the overall development of telemedicine. ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to perform a national survey to identify the overall implementation and application of telemedicine in Chinese tertiary hospitals and provide a scientific basis for the successful expansion of telemedicine in the future. MethodsThe method of probability proportionate to size sampling was adopted to collect data from 161 tertiary hospitals in 29 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities. Charts and statistical tests were applied to compare the development of telemedicine, including management, network, data storage, software and hardware equipment, and application of telemedicine. Ordinal logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between these factors and telemedicine service effect. ResultsApproximately 93.8% (151/161) of the tertiary hospitals carried out telemedicine services in business-to-business mode. The most widely used type of telemedicine network was the virtual private network with a usage rate of 55.3% (89/161). Only a few tertiary hospitals did not establish data security and cybersecurity measures. Of the 161 hospitals that took part in the survey, 100 (62.1%) conducted remote videoconferencing supported by hardware instead of software. The top 5 telemedicine services implemented in the hospitals were teleconsultation, remote education, telediagnosis of medical images, tele-electrocardiography, and telepathology, with coverage rates of 86.3% (139/161), 57.1% (92/161), 49.7% (80/161), 37.9% (61/161), and 33.5% (54/161), respectively. The average annual service volume of teleconsultation reached 714 cases per hospital. Teleconsultation and telediagnosis were the core charging services. Multivariate analysis indicated that the adoption of direct-to-consumer mode (P=.003), support from scientific research funds (P=.01), charging for services (P

BackgroundThe internet has caused the explosive growth of medical information and has greatly improved the availability of medical knowledge. This makes the internet one of the main ways for residents to obtain medical information and knowledge before seeking medical treatment. However, little has been researched on how the internet affects medical decisions. ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to explore the associations between internet behaviors and medical decisions among Chinese adults aged 18 or over, including whether to go to the hospital and which level of medical institution to choose. MethodsWith the adult residents (≥18 years old) in 12 regions including urban and rural areas taken as the research objects, the differences in medical choices of adults with various characteristics were analyzed, and generalized linear mixed models were adopted to analyze the longitudinal data of the China Health Nutrition Survey from 2006 to 2015. ResultsAdult groups with different ages, genders, education levels, regions, places of residence, severities of illness and injury, years of suffering from hypertension, and history of chronic diseases showed diverse medical decisions, and the differences were statistically significant (P

BackgroundIn the past few months, the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has caused extensive economic and social damage. ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to assess the impact of COVID-19–related measures on partner relationships and sexual and reproductive health in China. MethodsFrom May 1 to 5, 2020, 3500 young Chinese individuals were recruited through WeChat or Weibo to participate in a survey to obtain information on sexual and reproductive health (eg, sexual desire, frequency of sexual intercourse, sexual satisfaction, etc). The questionnaire also collected demographic data (eg, age, race, education, current financial status, sexual orientation, relationship status, etc). ResultsIn total, 967 participants were included in the sexual health analysis. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and related containment measures, 22% of participants (n=212) reported a decrease in sexual desire; 41% (n=396) experienced a decrease in the sexual intercourse frequency; 30% (n=291) reported an increase in the frequency of masturbation; 20% (n=192) reported a decrease in alcohol consumption before or during sexual activities, and 31% (n=298) reported a deterioration in partner relationships during the pandemic. The logistic regression analysis indicated that the following influenced partner relationships: accommodations during the pandemic (P=.046; odds ratio [OR] 0.59; 95% CI 0.30-0.86); exclusive relationship status (yes or no) (P

Objective To explore the correlation of pretreatment EBV DNA load, EBV EA-IgA and VCA-IgA antibodies levels with the clinical characteristics, curative effect and prognosis of the patients with early-stage extranodal nasal-type NK/T-cell lymphoma (ENKTCL). Methods We analyzed the clinical features and prognostic factors of 78 ENKTCL patients. Results Positive rates of pretreatment EBV DNA, VCA-IgA and EA-IgA were 43.6%, 20.5% and 14.1%, respectively. EBV DNA was significantly associated with Ann Arbor stage, primary site, PTI and non-CR (all P < 0.05). VCA-IgA and EA-IgA were related to positive EBV DNA and non-CR (all P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that age, EBV DNA and non-CR were independent prognostic factors for OS (all P < 0.05); age, EBV DNA, primary site and non-CR were independent prognostic factors for PFS (all P < 0.05). Conclusion The pretreatment positive EBV DNA is related to advanced Ann Arbor stage, PTI, primary extra-nasal subtypes of upper aerodigestive tract and poor response to treatment. The elevated levels of EA-IgA and VCA-IgA are related to positive EBV DNA and poor response to treatment. Pretreatment EBV DNA could be used for risk stratification and prognosis prediction of ENKTCL, while EA-IgA and VCA-IgA play limited role in guiding the prognosis of ENKTCL.

Objective To investigate the clinical significance of the ratio of hsa_circ_0001708 to IKZF1 in bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMNC) in pediatric B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL). Methods T-A clone was used to construct the recombinant plasmid containing the back-spliced junction of hsa_circ_0001708, regarding the gradient diluted recombinant plasmid as standard substance to establish the absolute fluorescence quantitative PCR (qPCR) for the detection of hsa_circ_0001708. Bone marrow samples from 159 newly diagnosed pediatric B-ALL patients and 17 patients with non-malignant hemotologic diseases in their matched control group admitted in the Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University from January 2016 to January 2019. The copy number of hsa_circ_0001708 and IKZF1 in BMNC of B-ALL children were determined by absolute fluorescence qPCR. The patients were divided into different groups according to their age, gender, peripheral blood leukocyte count, molecular biology, genetics, immune classification, and whether relapse and survive during the follow-up period. The ratio of hsa_circ_0001708 to IKZF1 in different groups and the correlation with these clinical characteristics were analyzed retrospectively. Results The absolute RT-qPCR was established that can accurately quantify the copy number of hsa_circ_0001708. The ratio of hsa_circ_0001708 to IKZF1 was significantly increased in pediatric B-ALL (P < 0.01) when compared with the controls, and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.793 6. The correlation analysis indicated that the ratio was significant increased in these groups of high leukocyte count, high blast cell count of peripheral blood, pre-B and poor prognosis in cytogenetics (P < 0.05). Conclusion The ratio of hsa_circ_0001708 to IKZF1 has potential diagnostic value and is related to the MIC classification for pediatric B-ALL.

Abstract The Seebeck effect and the Nernst effect, which reflect the appearance of electric fields along x-axis and along y-axis ( $$E_{x}$$ E x and $$E_{y}$$ E y ), respectively, induced by the thermal gradient along x-axis, are studied in the QGP at an external magnetic field along z-axis. We calculate the associated Seebeck coefficient ( $$S_{xx}$$ S xx ) and Nernst signal (N) using the relativistic Boltzmann equation under the relaxation time approximation. In an isotropic QGP, the influences of magnetic field (B) and quark chemical potential ( $$\mu _{q}$$ μ q ) on these thermoelectric transport coefficients are investigated. In the presence (absence) of weak magnetic field, we find $$S_{xx}$$ S xx for a fixed $$\mu _{q}$$ μ q is negative (positive) in sign, indicating that the dominant carriers for converting heat gradient to electric field are negatively (positively) charged quarks. The absolute value of $$S_{xx}$$ S xx decreases with increasing temperature. Unlike $$S_{xx}$$ S xx , the sign of N is independent of charge carrier type, and its thermal behavior displays a peak structure. In the presence of strong magnetic field, due to the Landau quantization of transverse motion of (anti-)quarks perpendicular to magnetic field, only the longitudinal Seebeck coefficient ( $$S_{zz}$$ S zz ) exists. Our results show that the value of $$S_{zz}$$ S zz at a fixed $$\mu _{q}$$ μ q in the lowest Landau level (LLL) approximation always remains positive. Within the effect of high Landau levels, $$S_{zz}$$ S zz exhibits a thermal structure similar to that in the LLL approximation. As the Landau level increases further, $$S_{zz}$$ S zz decreases and even its sign changes from positive to negative. The computations of these thermoelectric transport coefficients are also extended to a medium with momentum-anisotropy induced by initial spatial expansion as well as strong magnetic field.

Abstract Eight new diarylheptanoids, coriandralpinins A–H (1–8), were isolated from the rhizomes of Alpinia coriandriodora, an edible plant of the ginger family. Their structures, including the absolute configurations, were established by extensive spectroscopic analysis and ECD calculations. Compounds 1–8 have a 1,5-O-bridged diarylheptanoid structure featuring polyoxygenated aryl units. When evaluated for intracellular antioxidant activity using t-BHP stressed RAW264.7 macrophages, all these compounds scavenged reactive oxygen species (ROS) in a concentration-dependent manner. Compounds 3 and 5 also showed inhibitory activity against NO release in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells. Six known flavonols, 7,4′-di-O-methylkaempferol, 7-O-methylquercetin, 7,4′-di-O-methylquercetin, 7,3′,4′-tri-O- methylquercetin, kaempferol 3-O-β-d-(6-O-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl)glucopyranoside, and 3-O-β-d-glucopyranuronosylquercetin were also isolated and characterized from the rhizomes.

Some aerodynamic results about the effect of moving train on the aerodynamics of train-bridge system in crosswinds are introduced using a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method. In the simulation, a new overset mesh approach is applied to present the motion of trains, and the results are compared with that of the scaled wind tunnel experiment to validate the accuracy of the mesh and algorithm. Besides, the aerodynamic characteristics associated with the train and bridge are discussed for a range of resultant yaw angles. It is found that the resultant yaw angle is significantly important for the aerodynamic performances of trains, and the aerodynamic interaction on the nose of head-car can affect the flow features around train-bridge system to produce larger aerodynamic loads on the head-car. Furthermore, a new fitting formula for some resultant yaw angles is proposed to predict the aerodynamic forces on trains. Finally, the time-varying forces on the bridge are presented and a sudden change of aerodynamic loads is also observed due to the effect of moving train. The variation magnitude of forces depends on the train speed, and the mean value of forces is only determined by the natural wind velocity.

Abstract Objective Development of biomarkers for Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth (CMT) disease is critical for implementing effective clinical trials. The most common form of CMT, type 1A, is caused by a genomic duplication surrounding the PMP22 gene. A recent report (Neurology 2018;90:e518–3524) showed elevation of neurofilament light (NfL) in plasma of CMT1A disease patients, which correlated with disease severity. However, no plasma/serum biomarker has been identified that is specific to Schwann cells, the most directly affected cells in CMT1A. Methods We used the Olink immuno PCR platform to profile CMT1A patient (n = 47, 2 cohorts) and normal control plasma (n = 41, two cohorts) on five different Olink panels to screen 398 unique proteins. Results The TMPRSS5 protein (Transmembrane protease serine 5) was elevated 2.07‐fold (P =

More than 10% of women suffer from endometriosis (EMT) during their reproductive years. EMT can cause pain and infertility and requires further study from multiple perspectives. Previous reports have indicated that an increase inapolipoprotein E (ApoE) may be associated with a lower number of retrieved mature oocytes in older women, and an association between ApoE and spontaneous pregnancy loss may exist in patients with EMT. The purpose of this study was to investigate the existence of an increase in ApoE in follicular fluid (FF) and the possible relationship between ApoE and EMT in Chinese women. In the current study, 217 Chinese women (111 control subjects and 106 EMT patients) were included. The ApoE genotypes were identified by Sanger sequencing. We found that ApoE expression in FF was higher in patients with EMT than in the control group. In addition, a significant difference in ApoE4 carriers (ϵ3/ϵ4, ϵ4/ϵ4) was found between the control subjects and the patients with EMT. Furthermore, a nonparametric test revealed significant differences in the numbers of blastocysts and high-quality blastocysts, but not the hormone levels of FSH, LH, and E2, between the two groups. We also established a multifactor (BMI, high-quality blastocysts, and ϵ4) prediction model with good sensitivity for identifying patients who may suffer from EMT. Our results demonstrate that ApoE expression in FF is increased in EMT, the ApoE-ϵ4 allele is significantly linked to EMT, and a combined analysis of three factors (BMI, high-quality blastocysts, and ϵ4) could be used as a predictor of EMT.