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Aims: The optimum type of antibiotics and their administration route for treating Gram-negative (GN) periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) remain controversial. This study aimed to determine the GN bacterial species and antibacterial resistance rates related to clinical GN-PJI, and to determine the efficacy and safety of intra-articular (IA) antibiotic injection after one-stage revision in a GN pathogen-induced PJI rat model of total knee arthroplasty. Methods: A total of 36 consecutive PJI patients who had been infected with GN bacteria between February 2015 and December 2021 were retrospectively recruited in order to analyze the GN bacterial species involvement and antibacterial resistance rates. Antibiotic susceptibility assays of the GN bacterial species were performed to screen for the most sensitive antibiotic, which was then used to treat the most common GN pathogen-induced PJI rat model. The rats were randomized either to a PJI control group or to three meropenem groups (intraperitoneal (IP), IA, and IP + IA groups). After two weeks of treatment, infection control level, the side effects, and the volume of antibiotic use were evaluated. Results: Escherichia coli was the most common pathogen in GN-PJI, and meropenem was the most sensitive antibiotic. Serum inflammatory markers, weightbearing activity, and Rissing score were significantly improved by meropenem, especially in the IA and IP + IA groups ( p < 0.05). Meropenem in the IA group eradicated E. coli from soft-tissue, bone, and prosthetic surfaces, with the same effect as in the IP + IA group. Radiological results revealed that IA and IP + IA meropenem were effective at relieving bone damage. Haematoxylin and eosin staining also showed that IA and IP + IA meropenem improved synovial inflammation and bone destruction. No pathological changes in the main organs or abnormal serum markers were observed in any of the meropenem-treated rats. The IA group required the lowest amount of meropenem, followed by the IP and IP + IA groups. Conclusion: IA-only meropenem with a two-week treatment course was effective and safe for PJI control following one-stage revision in a rat model, with less meropenem use. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2024;13(10):546–558.

Objective(s): Slit guidance ligand 3 (SLIT3) has been identified as a potential therapeutic regulator against fibroblast activity and fibrillary collagen production in an autocrine manner. However, this research aims to investigate the potential role of SLIT3 in cardiac fibrosis and fibroblast differentiation and its underlying mechanism.Materials and Methods: C57BL/6 mice (male, 8-10 weeks, n=47) were subcutaneously infused with Ang II (2.0 mg/kg/day) for 4 weeks. One to two-day-old Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were anesthetized by intraperitoneal injection of 1% pentobarbital sodium (60 mg/kg) and ketamine (50 mg/kg) and the cardiac fibroblast was isolated aseptically. The mRNA and protein expression were analyzed using RT-qPCR and Western blotting.Results: The SLIT3 expression level was increased in Ang II-induced mice models and cardiac fibroblasts. SLIT3 significantly increased migrated cells and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression in cardiac fibroblasts. Ang II-induced increases in mRNA expression of collagen I (COL1A1), and collagen III (COL3A1) was attenuated by SLIT3 inhibition. SLIT3 knockdown attenuated the Ang II-induced increase in mRNA expression of ACTA2 (α-SMA), Fibronectin, and CTGF. SLIT3 suppression potentially reduced DHE expression and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and the superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) levels were significantly increased in cardiac fibroblasts. Additionally, SLIT3 inhibition markedly decreased RhoA and ROCK1 protein expression, whereas ROCK inhibitor Y-27632 (10 μM) markedly attenuated the migration of cardiac fibroblasts stimulated by Ang II and SLIT3.Conclusion: The results speculate that SLIT3 could significantly regulate cardiac fibrosis and fibroblast differentiation via the RhoA/ROCK1 signaling pathway.

Abstract Group 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3s) play key roles in intestinal inflammation. Olfactomedin 4 (OLFM4) is highly expressed in the colon and has a potential role in dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis. However, the detailed mechanisms underlying the effects of OLFM4 on ILC3-mediated colitis remain unclear. In this study, we identify OLFM4 as a positive regulator of IL-22+ILC3. OLFM4 expression in colonic ILC3s increases substantially during intestinal inflammation in humans and mice. Compared to littermate controls, OLFM4-deficient (OLFM4−/−) mice are more susceptible to bacterial infection and display greater resistance to anti-CD40 induced innate colitis, together with impaired IL-22 production by ILC3, and ILC3s from OLFM4−/−mice are defective in pathogen resistance. Besides, mice with OLFM4 deficiency in the RORγt compartment exhibit the same trend as in OLFM4−/−mice, including colonic inflammation and IL-22 production. Mechanistically, the decrease in IL-22+ILC3 caused by OLFM4 deficiency involves the apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1)- p38 MAPK signaling-dependent downregulation of RAR-related orphan receptor gamma (RORγt) protein. The OLFM4-metadherin (MTDH) complex upregulates p38/RORγt signaling, which is necessary for IL-22+ILC3 activation. The findings indicate that OLFM4 is a novel regulator of IL-22+ILC3 and essential for modulating intestinal inflammation and tissue homeostasis.

Objective(s): Corilagin (Cor) is reported as beiing hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-oxidant, while the effect on atrial fibrosis remains unknown. Therefore, we investigated the protective effect of Cor in angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced atrial fibrosis and atrial fibrillation (AF).Materials and Methods: C57BL/6 mice (male, 8–10 weeks, n = 40) were subcutaneously infused either with saline or Ang II (2.0 mg/kg/day) and Cor (30 mg/kg) intraperitoneally injected 2 hr before Ang II infusion for 4 weeks. Mice were grouped into the control group (n=8), Cor group (n=8), Ang II group (n=8), and Ang II + Cor group (n=8). Morphological, histological, and biochemical examinations were performed. In vivo, transesophageal burst pacing was used to generate AF.Results: Cor treatment markedly reduced Ang II-induced AF development in mice. Ang II + Cor therapy potentially decreased the atrial fibrotic area. It significantly decreased the increase in smooth muscle alpha-actin (α-SMA), CTGF, Collagen I, and Collagen III expressions brought on by Ang II treatment. Moreover, Ang II + Cor treatment remarkably decreased the malondialdehyde (MDA) content, whereas superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities were potentially increased (all, P

Abstract Background The use of long stems for severe femoral bone defects is suggested by many scholars, but it is associated with further bone loss, intraoperative fracture, increased surgical trauma, and complications. With better bone retention, simple and quick surgical procedures, and minimal complications, the short cementless stems with a tapered rectangular shape may be an alternative for femoral revision. This study aimed to evaluate the results of this type of stem in treating selected Paprosky II–IV bone defects. Methods This retrospective study included 73 patients (76 hips involved) who underwent conservative femoral revision using the short cementless stems with a tapered rectangular shape between January 2012 and December 2020. The preoperative femoral bone defects were identified as follows: 54 cases of type II, 11 cases of type IIIA, 7 cases of type IIIB, and 4 cases of type IV. Indications for revision included aseptic loosening (76.3%) and prosthetic joint infection (23.7%). Six cementless stems with a tapered rectangular shape from three companies were used in all patients. Among them, SLR-Plus, SL-Plus MIA, and Corail stems were employed in most patients (40.8%, 23.7%, and 17.1%, respectively). The average length of these stems measured 171.7 mm (SD 27 mm; 122–215 mm). Radiographic results, Harris hip scores (HHS), complications, and survivorship were analyzed. The follow-up lasted for 7 years on average (range 3–11 years). Results The subsidence was observed in three hips (3.9%), and all stems achieved stable bone ingrowth. Proximal femoral bone restoration in the residual osteolytic area was found in 67 hips (88.2%), constant defects in nine hips (11.8%), and increasing defects in 0 cases. There was no evidence of stem fractures and stem loosening in this series. The mean HHS significantly improved from 32 (range 15–50) preoperatively to 82 (range 68–94) at the last follow-up (t = − 36.297, P

Abstract The management of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) and surgical site infection (SSI) after joint arthroplasty poses a major challenge in orthopedic surgery. This Editorial provides an overview of the studies published in the special issue “Management of PJI/SSI after Joint Arthroplasty”, summarizing the key findings from these studies, which cover a wide range of topics, including stringent preventive strategies, comprehensive diagnostic methods, and personalized treatment modalities. The authors concluded the editorial with their perspectives regarding the status quo of research in this field and future directions for research, such as the development of novel antibiotics, biofilm research, patient-specific risk factors, and the integration of technological advancements (such as machine learning and artificial intelligence) into clinical practice. The authors emphasized the need for continued research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the application of innovative technologies to enhance patient outcomes and mitigate the burden of these infections on healthcare systems.

This research aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effect of corilagin (Cor) against angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced cardiac fibrosis and its underlying mechanisms. C57BL/6 mice (male, 8-10 weeks) received saline or Ang II (2.0 mg/kg/day) via subcutaneous infusion and intraperitoneal injection of Cor (30 mg/kg) for 28 days. Ang II induction increased the fibrotic area, whereas Cor treatment inhibited the fibrotic area significantly. Cor markedly reduced the Ang II-induced cardiac fibroblasts. Cor significantly inhibited Ang II-induced increase in expressions of smooth muscle alpha-actin (α-SMA), collagen I, collagen III, transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), fibronectin, and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF). Cor suppressed the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Cor therapy reduced Ang II-induced malondialdehyde (MDA) content, whereas superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities were increased (all, P < .001). Moreover, Ang II induction elevated the expression of phosphorylated phosphatase and tensin homolog (p-PTEN), phosphorylated protein kinase B (p-AKT) (Ser473) and phosphorylated mammalian target of rapamycin (p-mTOR) (Ser 2448), whereas Cor reduced their expressions. Cor treatment inhibited the migration ability of the cardiac fibroblast, whereas a PTEN inhibitor, VO-ohpic, increased the migration capability. Cor could have a protective effect against Ang II-induced cardiac fibrosis via inhibition of the PTEN/AKT/mTOR pathway.

Abstract Seminal plasma induces immune tolerance towards paternal allogenic antigens within the female reproductive tract and during foetal development. Recent evidence suggests a role for extracellular vesicles in seminal plasma (spEVs). We isolated spEVs from seminal plasma that was donated by vasectomized men, thereby excluding any contributions from the testis or epididymis. Previous analysis demonstrated that such isolated spEVs originate mainly from the prostate. Here we observed that when isolated fluorescently labelled spEVs were mixed with peripheral blood mononuclear cells, they were endocytosed predominantly by monocytes, and to a lesser extent also by T‐cells. In a mixed lymphocyte reaction, T‐cell proliferation was inhibited by spEVs. A direct effect of spEVs on T‐cells was demonstrated when isolated T cells were activated by anti‐CD3/CD28 coated beads. Again, spEVs interfered with T cell proliferation, as well as with the expression of CD25 and the release of IFN‐γ, TNF, and IL‐2. Moreover, spEVs stimulated the expression of Foxp3 and IL‐10 by CD4+CD25+CD127‐ T cells, indicating differentiation into regulatory T‐cells (Tregs). Prior treatment of spEVs with proteinase K revoked their effects on T‐cells, indicating a requirement for surface‐exposed spEV proteins. The adenosine A2A receptor‐specific antagonist CPI‐444 also reduced effects of spEVs on T‐cells, consistent with the notion that the development of Tregs and their immune suppressive functions are under the influence of adenosine‐A2A receptor signalling. We found that adenosine is highly enriched in spEVs and propose that spEVs are targeted to and endocytosed by T‐cells, after which they may release their adenosine content into the lumen of endosomes, thus allowing endosome‐localized A2A receptor signalling in spEVs targeted T‐cells. Collectively, these data support the idea that spEVs can prime T cells directly for differentiation into Tregs.

Abstract Introduction Ischemia‐reperfusion (I/R) injury, resulting from blood flow interruption and its subsequent restoration, is a prevalent complication in liver surgery. The liver, as a crucial organ for carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, exhibits decreased tolerance to hepatic I/R in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), resulting in a significant increase in hepatic dysfunction following surgery. This may be attributed to elevated oxidative stress and inflammation. Our prior research established sinomenine's (SIN) protective role against hepatic I/R injury. Nevertheless, the impact of SIN on hepatic I/R injury in DM rats remains unexplored. Objective and Methods This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of SIN in hepatic I/R injury in DM rats and elucidate its mechanism. Diabetic and hepatic I/R injury models were established in rats through high‐fat/sugar diet, streptozotocin injection, and hepatic blood flow occlusion. Liver function, oxidative stress, inflammatory reaction, histopathology, and Nrf‐2/HO‐1 signaling pathway were evaluated by using UV spectrophotometry, biochemical assays, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, hematoxylin‐eosin staining, and Western blot analysis. Results High‐dose SIN (300 mg/kg) significantly attenuated hepatic I/R injury in DM rats, reducing serum activities of ALT and AST, decreasing the AST/ALT ratio, enhancing tissue contents of SOD and GSH‐Px, suppressing the levels of TNF‐α and IL‐6, improving the liver histopathology, and activating Nrf‐2/HO‐1 signaling by promoting Nrf‐2 trans‐location from cytoplasm to nucleus. Low‐dose SIN (100 mg/kg) was ineffective. Conclusions This study demonstrates that high‐dose sinomenine's mitigates hepatic I/R‐induced inflammation and oxidative stress in diabetes mellitus (DM) rats via Nrf‐2/HO‐1 activation, suggesting its potential as a preventive strategy for hepatic I/R injury in DM patients.

Accurate prediction of significant wave height is crucial for ocean engineering. Traditional time series prediction models fail to achieve satisfactory results due to the non-stationarity of significant wave height. Decomposition algorithms are adopted to address the problem of non-stationarity, but the traditional direct decomposition method exists information leakage. In this study, a hybrid VMD-LSTM-rolling model is proposed for non-stationary wave height prediction. In this model, time series are generated by a rolling method, after which each time series is decomposed, trained and predicted, then the predictions of each time series are combined to generate the final prediction of significant wave height. The performance of the LSTM model, the VMD-LSTM-direct model and the VMD-LSTM-rolling model are compared in terms of multi-step prediction. It is found that the error of the VMD-LSTM-direct model and the VMD-LSTM-rolling model is lower than that of the LSTM model. Due to the decomposition of the testing set, the VMD-LSTM-direct model has a slightly higher accuracy than the VMD-LSTM-rolling model. However, given the issue of information leakage, the accuracy of the VMD-LSTM-direct model is considered false. Thus, it has been proved that the VMD-LSTM-rolling model exhibits superiority in predicting significant wave height and can be applied in practice.

Based on a sample of oil shale from the Lucaogou Formation in Shichanggou, Xinjiang, China, the mechanism of changes in the physical and mechanical properties of oil shale during in-situ pyrolysis was systematically analyzed, and combined with the kinetics of the pyrolysis reaction, a constitutive model of permeability change during the in-situ pyrolysis of oil shale was established. By leaching experiments, the changes in the physicochemical parameters and pollutant concentration of oil shale immersion solution under different pyrolysis temperatures were studied. Basing on the theoretical permeability value and pollutant concentration under in-situ pyrolysis conditions, a hydrogeological model was established to simulate groundwater pollution caused by the in-situ pyrolysis of oil shale. The results showed that the permeability of oil shale after in-situ pyrolysis increased by three orders of magnitude, changing from a water-proof layer before pyrolysis to a weakly permeable layer after pyrolysis. However, the permeability of oil shale after complete pyrolysis at 600 °C was only 2.062 mD and still very low, and the pollutants had low concentration and were mainly concentrated in the pyrolyzed oil shale layer. The in-situ pyrolysis of oil shale would not pollute the groundwater in the mining area, but the pH of groundwater would gradually increase with rising pyrolysis temperatures. At 600 °C, pH even increased to 11.68, which is strongly alkaline. It is suggested that the pyrolysis temperature should be 400â500 °C.

Highlights Solvation engineering toward dual-salt electrolyte by fluorosurfactant additive is proposed, which implements the stable interface of electrode/electrolyte coupled with fast ion thermodiffusion, improving the durability and capability of lithium-ion thermoelectrochemical cell. By combining the optimized electrolyte with functional electrodes, as-constructed device exhibits high Seebeck coefficient and energy density based on hybrid mechanisms, which can be extended as self-power supply for smart electronics.

Abstract Ionic and electronic transport in electrodes is crucial for electrochemical energy storage technology. To optimize the transport pathway of ions and electrons, electrode materials are minimized to nanometer-sized dimensions, leading to problems of volumetric performance, stability, cost, and pollution. Here we find that a bulk hexagonal molybdenum oxide with unconventional ion channels can store large amounts of protons at a high rate even if its particle size is tens of micrometers. The diffusion-free proton transport kinetics based on hydrogen bonding topochemistry is demonstrated in hexagonal molybdenum oxide whose proton conductivity is several orders of magnitude higher than traditional orthorhombic molybdenum oxide. In situ X-ray diffraction and theoretical calculation reveal that the structural self-optimization in the first discharge effectively promotes the reversible intercalation/de-intercalation of subsequent protons. The open crystal structure, suitable proton channels, and negligible volume strain enable rapid and stable proton transport and storage, resulting in extremely high volumetric capacitance (~1750 F cm–3), excellent rate performance, and ultralong cycle life (>10,000 cycles). The discovery of unconventional materials and mechanisms that enable proton storage of micrometer-sized particles in seconds boosts the development of fast-charging energy storage systems and high-power practical applications.

Aims and objectives: Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) has been found to possess anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties, but its effect on atrial fibrosis is yet to be determined. This research investigates the protective role of AS-IV in angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced atrial fibrosis and atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods: C57BL/6 male mice aged 8–10 weeks (n = 40) were subcutaneously administered Ang II (2.0 mg/kg/day) or saline, with AS-IV (80 mg/kg) intraperitoneally administered 2 h before Ang II infusion for 4 weeks. Biochemical, histological, and morphological analyses were carried out. Using transesophageal burst pacing, AF was generated in vivo. Results: Here, we report that AS-IV treatment inhibited Ang II-induced AF development in mice (58 ± 5.86 vs 15.13 ± 2.16 %, p

Accurate prediction of significant wave height is of great reference value for wave energy generation. However, due to the non-linearity and non-stationarity of significant wave height, traditional algorithms face difficulties in achieving satisfactory prediction results. In this study, a hybrid CEEMDAN-VMD-TimesNet model is proposed for non-stationary significant wave height prediction. Based on the significant wave height in the South Sea of China, the performance of the SVM model, the GRU model, the LSTM model, the TimesNet model, the CEEMDAN-TimesNet model and the CEEMDAN-VMD-TimesNet model are compared in terms of multi-step prediction. It is found that the prediction accuracy of the TimesNet model is higher than that of the SVM model, the GRU model and the LSTM model. The non-stationarity of significant wave height is reduced by CEEMDAN decomposition. Thus, the CEEMDAN-TimesNet model performs better than the TimesNet model in predicting significant wave height. The prediction accuracy of the CEEMDAN-VMD-TimesNet model is further improved by employing VMD for the secondary decomposition of components with high and moderate complexity. Additionally, the CEEMDAN-VMD-TimesNet model can accurately predict trends and extreme values of significant wave height with minimal phase shifts even during typhoon periods. The results demonstrate that the CEEMDAN-VMD-TimesNet model exhibits superiority in predicting significant wave height.

Changes in structural characteristics and antioxidant activity of tilapia hydrolysate glycated with glucose, fructose, or xylose at 90 °C for 12 h, and following in vitro gastrointestinal (GI) digestion were investigated. Fourier-transformed infrared (FTIR) band between 1,800 and 1,400 cm−1 confirmed the structural modifications of hydrolysate under glycations. Glycation drastically increased ATBS·+ and ONOO- scavenging activities (p

Abstract Flexible power supply devices provide possibilities for wearable electronics in the Internet of Things. However, unsatisfying capacity or lifetime of typical batteries or capacitors seriously limit their practical applications. Different from conventional heat-to-electricity generators, zinc ion thermal charging cells has been a competitive candidate for the self-power supply solution, but the lack of promising cathode materials has restricted the achievement of promising performances. Herein, we propose an attractive cathode material by rational heterostructure engineering of hydrated vanadium pentoxide. Owing to the integration of thermodiffusion and thermoextraction effects, the thermopower is significantly improved from 7.8 ± 2.6 mV K−1 to 23.4 ± 1.5 mV K−1. Moreover, an impressive normalized power density of 1.9 mW m−2 K−2 is achieved in the quasi-solid-state cells. In addition, a wearable power supply constructed by three units can drive the commercial health monitoring system by harvesting body heat. This work demonstrates the effectiveness of electrodes design for wearable thermoelectric applications.

Abstract Background Hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R)-induced cardiomyocyte cell apoptosis is critical in developing myocardial infarction. Stachydrine (STA), an active constituent of Leonurus heterophyllus sweet, could have a protective effect on myocardial H/R injury, which remains unexplored. Therefore, the study aimed to investigate the protective effects and mechanisms of STA on H/R injury of cardiomyocytes. Methods Rat cardiomyocyte H9c2 cells underwent H/R (hypoxia for 4 h and reoxygenation for 12 h). Cells were pretreated with STA (50 µM) 2 h before H/R. Cardiomyocyte injury was evaluated by CCK-8 assay and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release. Apoptosis was assessed by TUNEL staining and caspase-3 activity. Oxidative stress was assessed by lipid oxidation product MDA and a ROS-scavenging enzyme SOD in culture media. Western blot was performed to measure the protein expressions of SIRT1, Nrf2, and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). Results STA reversed the decrease in cell viability and increased LDH release in H9c2 cells with the H/R insult. STA significantly suppressed oxidative stress, reduced MDA content, and increased SOD activity in H9c2 cells exposed to H/R. STA reduced apoptosis in H9c2 cells exposed to H/R, as evidenced by the reduced TUNEL positive cells and caspase-3 activity. In addition, STA enhanced SIRT1, Nrf2, and HO-1 protein expression in H/R-stimulated H9c2 cells. SIRT1 and Nrf2 involved the protective effect of STA in H/R-exposed H9c2 cells, as the changes in cell viability and caspase-3 activity by STA can be reversed by SIRT1 inhibitor EX-527 or Nrf2 siRNA. Conclusions Our data speculated that STA protects H/R injury and inhibits oxidative stress and apoptosis in cardiomyocytes by activation of the SIRT1-Nrf2 pathway.

Aims: To investigate the optimal thresholds and diagnostic efficacy of commonly used serological and synovial fluid detection indexes for diagnosing periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) in patients who have rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods: The data from 348 patients who had RA or osteoarthritis (OA) and had previously undergone a total knee (TKA) and/or a total hip arthroplasty (THA) (including RA-PJI: 60 cases, RA-non-PJI: 80 cases; OA-PJI: 104 cases, OA-non-PJI: 104 cases) were retrospectively analyzed. A receiver operating characteristic curve was used to determine the optimal thresholds of the CRP, ESR, synovial fluid white blood cell count (WBC), and polymorphonuclear neutrophil percentage (PMN%) for diagnosing RA-PJI and OA-PJI. The diagnostic efficacy was evaluated by comparing the area under the curve (AUC) of each index and applying the results of the combined index diagnostic test. Results: For PJI prediction, the results of serological and synovial fluid indexes were different between the RA-PJI and OA-PJI groups. The optimal cutoff value of CRP for diagnosing RA-PJI was 12.5 mg/l, ESR was 39 mm/hour, synovial fluid WBC was 3,654/μl, and PMN% was 65.9%; and those of OA-PJI were 8.2 mg/l, 31 mm/hour, 2,673/μl, and 62.0%, respectively. In the RA-PJI group, the specificity (94.4%), positive predictive value (97.1%), and AUC (0.916) of synovial fluid WBC were higher than those of the other indexes. The optimal cutoff values of synovial fluid WBC and PMN% for diagnosing RA-PJI after THA were significantly higher than those of TKA. The specificity and positive predictive value of the combined index were 100%. Conclusion: Serum inflammatory and synovial fluid indexes can be used for diagnosing RA-PJI, for which synovial fluid WBC is the best detection index. Combining multiple detection indexes can provide a reference basis for the early and accurate diagnosis of RA-PJI. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2023;12(9):559–570.

Abstract Introduction Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) abuse poses an overwhelming threat to the allocation of medical resources and places a heavy burden on global medical expenses. In this study, we put forward our prospective prescription review system and evaluated the effects of this system on clinical outcomes, rational medication use and costs related to PPIs. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted in which the included patients were divided into a preintervention group (2019.10–2020.09) and a postintervention group (2020.10–2021.09). To reduce the bias of patients’ baseline characteristics, the propensity score matching (PSM) method was employed. The primary endpoints were the incidence of stress ulcers (SUs), the improvement and cure rates of gastrointestinal haemorrhage, the defined daily dose (DDD), the drug utilization index (DUI) and the DDD/100 patient-days. The secondary endpoints included the types of unreasonable medication orders for PPIs, the PPI utilization rate and PPI costs. Results A total of 53,870 patients were included to evaluate the secondary endpoints, and 46,922 patients were paired by PSM and assessed to evaluate the primary endpoints. The number of PPIs used and PPI costs were significantly lower in the postintervention group than in the preintervention group (P

In the field of Natural Language Processing (NLP), the lack of support for minority languages, especially Uyghur, the scarcity of Uyghur language corpora in the agricultural domain, and the lightweight nature of large language models remain prominent issues. This study proposes a method for constructing a bilingual (Uyghur and Chinese) lightweight specialized large language model for the agricultural domain. By utilizing a mixed training approach of Uyghur and Chinese, we extracted Chinese corpus text from agricultural-themed books in PDF format using OCR (Optical Character Recognition) technology, converted the Chinese text corpus into a Uyghur corpus using a rapid translation API, and constructed a bilingual mixed vocabulary. We applied the parameterized Transformer model algorithm to train the model for the agricultural domain in both Chinese and Uyghur. Furthermore, we introduced a context detection and fail-safe mechanism for the generated text. The constructed model possesses the ability to support bilingual reasoning in Uyghur and Chinese in the agricultural domain, with higher accuracy and a smaller size that requires less hardware. It (our work) addresses issues such as the scarcity of Uyghur corpora in the agricultural domain, mixed word segmentation and word vector modeling in Uyghur for widespread agricultural languages, model lightweighting and deployment, and the fragmentation of non-relevant texts during knowledge extraction from small-scale corpora. The lightweight design of the model reduces hardware requirements, facilitating deployment in resource-constrained environments. This advancement promotes agricultural intelligence, aids in the development of specific applications and minority languages (such as agriculture and Uyghur), and contributes to rural revitalization.

Abstract Simultaneously achieving high energy density and high‐power density in energy storage systems is a crucial direction for developing next‐generation energy storage technologies. The high capacity and rapid kinetic performance of rechargeable proton batteries provide an ideal solution for overcoming energy limitation of capacitors and power constraints of traditional metal‐ion batteries. Research efforts primarily concentrated on electrode materials design, understanding the charge storage mechanisms, and exploring the failure mechanisms. While there has been relatively less emphasis on the modifications to electrolytes and electrode‐electrolyte interfaces to enhance overall performance. Summarizing and sorting relevant work is crucial in providing direction and suggestions for future research endeavors. Herein, to improve energy density, power density, and cycle stability of proton batteries, a series of recently published studies on electrolyte and electrode‐electrolyte interfaces are discussed and reviewed. Furthermore, challenges and future directions pertaining to the electrolytes of proton batteries have been identified, offering insights to facilitate the development of proton battery technology.

Objective(s): The present study’s objective was to investigate the association between angiopoietin-like 4 (ANGPTL4) levels and the prognosis of Atrial fibrillation (AF), the causative effect in angiotensin II- (Ang II) induced AF, and its underlying mechanisms.Materials and Methods: Baseline serum ANGPTL-4 concentrations were measured in 130 patients with AF. Rat atrial fibroblasts were isolated from 14-day-old SD rats and transfected with Ang II treatment. Transfected cells were divided into: The control group, ANGPTL4-OE group, Ang II group, and Ang II+ANGPTL4-OE group. Transfected cells were used to analyze fibroblasts’ proliferation, migration, and collagen production at the cellular level. RT-qPCR and western blotting evaluated the ANGPTL4-targeted gene and PPARγ-Akt pathway.Results: In patients with AF, serum ANGPTL4 concentrations decreased significantly compared with the healthy group. ANGPTL4 mRNA and protein expressions were significantly down-regulated in Ang II-induced cardiac fibroblasts. ANGPTL4 overexpression potentially attenuated Ang II‑induced fibroblast proliferation, migration, and collagen production in atrial tissue. ANGPTL4 inhibited the signaling proteins, such as PPARγ, α-SMA, and Akt.Conclusion: Our experimental data speculate that ANGPTL4 is a key factor in regulating AF progression. Therefore, increasing ANGPTL4 expression could be an effective strategy for AF treatment.v

Highlights By selecting 4-methylbiphenyl as an anion ligand and 2-methyltetrahydrofuran as a solvent, the as-prepared micro-sized SiO/C anode can achieve an initial Coulombic efficiency of ~100%. Molecular dynamics simulations demonstrate that the ideal prelithiation efficiency can be achieved by choosing appropriate anion ligand and solvent to regulate the solvation structure of Li+. The positive effect of pre-lithiation on cycle performance has been verified by using an in-situ electrochemical dilatometry and solid electrolyte interphase film.

Objective Morphine plays an important role in postoperative analgesia after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, there are limited data that investigate the administration ways of morphine. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of adding morphine to periarticular infiltration analgesia (PIA) combined with single‐dose epidural morphine for the patients undergoing TKA. Methods In total, 120 patients with knee osteoarthritis who underwent the primary TKA from April 2021 and March 2022 were randomized into three groups (a cocktail containing morphine with single‐dose epidural morphine [Group A]; a cocktail containing morphine [Group B]; and a cocktail free of morphine [Group C]). The three groups were compared based on the Visual Analog Score at rest and during motion, requirement of tramadol, functional recovery including quadriceps strength and range of motion, and adverse events including nausea and vomiting and local and systemic adverse events. The repetitive measure analysis of variance and chi‐square test among three groups were used to analyze the results. Results Analgesia strategy in Group A (0.4 ± 0.8, and 0.9 ± 1.0 points, respectively) significantly reduced rest pain at 6 and 12 h after surgery relative to Group B (1.6 ± 1.2, and 2.2 ± 1.4 points, respectively) (p 0.05). From the second day to the fourth day after surgery, although the three groups showed no statistical difference in the range of motion, the result of Group C was inferior to that of the other two groups. There were no significant differences in the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting and metoclopramide consumption among the three groups (p > 0.05). Conclusion PIA combined with single‐dose epidural morphine effectively reduces early postoperative pain and tramadol requirement as well as few complications, which can become a safe and effective measure to improve postoperative pain after TKA.

Abstract Background Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress plays an important role in the occurrence and development of various liver diseases. However, there are no effective prevention and treatment strategies. We aimed to determine the role of heat shock factor 2 binding protein (HSF2BP) in ER stress. Methods HSF2BP expression in mice and cultured hepatocytes was measured during ER stress induced by tunicamycin, and its importance in ER stress was evaluated in hepatocyte-specific HSF2BP transgenic (TG) and knockout (KO) mice. The effects and mechanisms of HSF2BP on ER stress were further probed in hepatic ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. Results HSF2BP expression was significantly upregulated during tunicamycin-induced ER stress in mice and cultured hepatocytes. Liver injury and ER stress were reduced in HSF2BP overexpressing mice after treating with tunicamycin, but were aggravated in HSF2BP knockout mice compared to the controls. In hepatic I/R injury, HSF2BP expression was significantly upregulated, and HSF2BP overexpressing mice had reduced liver injury and inflammation. These improvements were associated with ER stress inhibition. However, these results were reversed in hepatocyte-specific HSF2BP knockout mice. HSF2BP overexpression increased cytoplasmic CDC73 levels and inhibited the JNK signaling pathway. CDC73 knockdown using siRNA eliminated the protection exerted by HSF2BP overexpression in hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R)-induced ER stress in hepatocytes. Conclusion HSF2BP is a previously uncharacterized regulatory factor in ER stress-likely acts by regulating CDC73 subcellular localization. The feasibility of HSF2BP-targeted treatment in ER stress-related liver disease deserves future research.

Monitoring the temperature of the coal gangue mountains is fundamental to preventing their spontaneous combustion. However, the existing temperature monitoring systems fail to achieve stable, pollution-free temperature monitoring without affecting vegetation growth in these mountains. To address this issue, this work proposes a flexible thermoelectric device (FTD) based on a protrusion-structured liquid metal elastomer (LME). Utilizing a high-thermal-conductivity LME, the FTD adheres closely to the surface of the gravity heat pipe (GHP), ensuring compatibility between FTD and the curved surface of the GHP. Simultaneously, employing a low-thermal-conductivity elastomer helps concentrate heat onto FTD, thereby enhancing thermoelectric power generation efficiency. Additionally, the impact of the shape, size, and height of the protrusion structure at the cold end of the GHP on its efficiency was also investigated. The practical application of FTD on GHP was demonstrated.

Fibers are applied to construction works to improve the strength and brittle failure of the soil. In this paper, fibers with a length of 6 mm are added to the microbial cemented sand, and fiber types and content are research variable. Unconfined compressive strength (UCS), permeability coefficient, water absorption rate, dry density, and calcium carbonate precipitation of the solidified sand were tested. The physical and mechanical properties of fiber types and content on the immobilization of microorganisms were also analyzed from the micro–macro perspective. Results are presented as follows. The UCS of the Microbial induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) treated sand increases first and then decreases with the increasing fiber content. This phenomenon is due to the promotion of calcium carbonate precipitation by short fiber reinforcement, the limited movement of the sand particles caused by the formed network between the fibers, and the enhanced strength of the microbial solidified sand. However, the agglomeration caused by additional fibers leads to the uneven distribution of calcium carbonate and the reduction in strength. The optimum fiber contents of polypropylene, glass, polyvinyl alcohol, and basalt fibers are 0.4%, 0.2%, 0.2%, and 0.1%, respectively.

Introduction Lumbar degenerative disease (LDD) is one of the most common reasons for patients to present with low back pain. Proper evaluation and treatment of patients with LDD are important, which clinicians perform using a variety of predictors for guidance in choosing the most appropriate treatment. Because evidence on which treatment is best for LDD is limited, the purpose of this study is to establish a clinical prediction model based on machine learning (ML) to accurately predict outcomes of patients with LDDs in the early stages by their clinical characteristics and imaging changes.Methods and analysis In this study, we develop and validate a clinical prognostic model to determine whether patients will experience complications within 6 months after percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD). Baseline data will be collected from patients’ electronic medical records. As of now, we have recruited a total of 580 participants (n=400 for development, n=180 for validation). The study’s primary outcome will be the incidence of complications within 6 months after PELD. We will use an ML algorithm and a multiple logistic regression analysis model to screen factors affecting surgical efficacy. We will evaluate the calibration and differentiation performance of the model by the area under the curve. Sensitivity (Sen), specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value will be reported in the validation data set, with a target of 80% Sen. The results of this study could better illustrate the performance of the clinical prediction model, ultimately helping both clinicians and patients.Ethics and dissemination Ethical approval was obtained from the medical ethics committee of the Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Lanzhou, China; No. 2022-57). Findings and related data will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals, at conferences, and through open scientific frameworks.Trial registration number Chinese Clinical Trial Register (www.chictr.org.cn) No. ChiCTR2200064421.

This study investigates the effects of various dosages of belite replacing ordinary Portland cement (OPC) on properties of OPC binders using carbonation curing. Mechanical strength was examined, pore-related test and microstructural/mineralogical analyses including water absorption, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis and 29Si nuclear magnetic resonance (29Si-NMR) were carried out. Extra attention was paid on the changes in the thickness and porosity of interfacial transition zone (ITZ) of mortars. Compared to normal curing, carbonation curing increased the compressive strength of all mortar mixes, especially given a longer period of curing and/or with belite addition. The greatest increase (73.18%) in the compressive strength was seen in the specimen with 35% of belite after 28 days of carbonation curing compared its peer under normal curing condition. Besides, specimens with 5% and 15% belite obtained higher flexural strength than that of the control after 7 and 28 days of carbonation curing. Carbonation curing led to about 92.75% increment in the flexural strength of the specimen with 15% belite. Regardless of curing conditions, in most cases, belite modified mortars had higher fractural toughness, probably due to the formation of more C–S–H gels instead of Portlandite. Compressive and flexural strength are more sensitive towards the thickness of ITZ than its porosity and carbonation curing strengthened this sensitivity. Carbonation curing densified the bulk OPC binders, especially after a long period of curing incorporated with belite. Microstructural analyses indicate that although in general belite hinders the hydration process of OPC, a suitable amount (5 wt%) improved the hydration degree of OPC when cured in carbonation environment. The polymerization degree of C–S–H gels could be enhanced when belite is added irrespective of curing conditions.

Flotation tailings of a polymetallic mine in Inner Mongolia contain fluorite resources. Due to the influence of the tungsten-tin flotation reagent and the ore embedded characteristics in the early stage, the fluorite flotation concentrate grade is up to 92%, and the recovery is about 30%. The fluorite resources in the tailings were not effectively recovered. In this study, the beneficiation feed grade of fluorite was improved by waste disposal with pre-magnetic separation, and organic depressor HG-1 was used instead of acidified water glass. Under the condition of original ore CaF2 grade of 17.65%, the fluorite concentrate with CaF2 grade of 97.26% and recovery of 63.15% was obtained, which realized the comprehensive recovery of fluorite resources in tailings.

Abstract Objective To explore the clinical application of a newly developed magnetic anchoring traction (MAT) system in the liver bench trimming and transplantation surgery. Background The conventionally limited space, vision, and exposure have always been a challenge for the quality of surgery in the liver bench trimming due to the fact that the exposure depends largely on the experience of surgeon. To deal with this problem, a MAT system is developed as an alternative support to enhance exposure. The preliminarily experiments on animals verified its feasibility and reliability in the practical use, and its clinical application and effects were examined in the present research. Methods A total of 20 DCD (donation of cardiac death) donor livers were collected and divided evenly between the magnetic anchor traction (MAT) assisted group (n = 10) and the manual assisted group (n = 10). The results and quality assessment from experts about the liver bench surgery performed by two groups were examined and compared. Results The MAT system can be employed effectively to compete and replace the manual assistance to achieve a better exposure in the liver bench trimming. No statistical difference was found regarding the baseline data between the MAT and the manual groups. In the inferior vena cava and hepatic artery trimming, the MAT group outperformed the manual group remarkably in many aspects. The surgery time for liver bench shortened considerably after a quick grasp of MAT skills by surgeons. Conclusion The MAT system provides a more stable, reliable and qualified local exposure in the liver bench surgery, and can preferably be employed to replace the manual assistance in the procedures of liver transplantation.

Objective(s): Cardiac fibrosis is a key biological process of cardiac remodeling and heart failure. Fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4) is a lipid-binding protein that can regulate glucose and lipid homeostasis, and its expression was elevated in heart failure. However, whether FABP4 is involved in cardiac fibrosis remains unknown. Materials and Methods: The cardiac fibrosis model was established in male C57BL/6 mice with subcutaneously infused angiotensin II (Ang-II) (2.8 mg/kg/day) for 4 weeks. DMSO or FABP4 inhibitor BMS309403 (50 mg/kg/day) was intraperitoneally injected for 4 weeks. Ang II-infused mice, FABP4 inhibitor (BMS309403) injected mice, and ventricular tissue were used for morphological studies, and histological and biochemical analyses (FABP4 protein composition and expression).Results: Ang II infusion increased FABP4 mRNA and protein expression in the mouse ventricular tissue. After treatment with FABP4 inhibitor BMS309403 for 4 weeks, mice showed improved cardiac structure and function as detected by echocardiography. BMS309403 suppressed cardiac and systemic inflammatory response, reduced collagen deposition, and mRNA expression of collagen type I (COL1A1) and collagen type III (COL3A1) in Ang II-infused mice. BMS309403 also reduced the number of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA)+cells and decreased the mRNA expression of α-SMA, matrix metalloproteinases-2 (MMP-2), MMP-9, and transforming growth factor-β (TGF‑β) in ventricular tissue.Conclusion: The inhibitory effect of BMS309403 on cardiac fibrosis might be associated with inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activation, which Ang II activated. Thus, our data speculated that inhibition of FABP4 could significantly induce cardiac fibrosis.

Abstract Corrosion at the taper/trunnion interface of total hip replacement (THR) often results in severe complications. However, the underlying mechanisms of biotribocorrosion at the taper/trunnion interface during the long-term walking gait cycles remain to be fully understood. In this study, a hip joint simulator was therefore instrumented with an electrochemical cell for in-situ monitoring of the tribocorrosion evolution in a metal-on-polyethylene (MoP) THR during a typical long-term walking gait. In addition, the biotribocorrosion mechanism was investigated via surface and chemical characterizations. The experimental results confirmed that the taper/trunnion interface dominated the contemporary MoP hip joint corrosion. Three cyclic variations in the open circuit potential (OCP) were observed throughout the long-term electrochemical measurements, attributed to the formation and disruption of the adsorbed protein layer. The corrosion exhibited an initial increase at each period, peaking at approximately 0.125 million cycles, followed by a subsequent gradual reduction. Surface and chemical analyses revealed the formation of a tribochemical reaction layer (tribolayer) on the worn surface of the taper/trunnion interface. The surface/chemical characterizations and the electrochemical measurements indicated that the adhesion force of the adsorbed protein layer was weaker than that of the tribolayer. In contrast, the opposite was true for the corrosion resistance. Based on the observations from this study, the tribocorrosion mechanism of the taper/trunnion interface under the long-term walking gait cycles is deduced.

The exact pathogenesis of epilepsy, one of the most common and devastating diseases of the nervous system, is not fully understood. Syntaxin7 (STX7) is a member of the SNARE superfamily, which mediates membrane fusion events in all cells. However, the role STX7 plays in epilepsy remains unclear. Therefore, this study investigates the role of STX7 in epilepsy. Our study found that the expression of STX7 was reduced in the epileptic brain and that overexpression of STX7 decreased the susceptibility to epileptic seizures and alleviated epileptic activity in a kainic acid–induced model and pentylenetetrazole-induced kindling model of epilepsy, whereas the downregulation of STX7 showed opposite effects. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings showed that STX7 does not affect the intrinsic excitability of neurons, but rather the excitation/inhibition ratio mediated by affecting the release of presynaptic γ-aminobutyric acid neurotransmitters. Transmission electron microscopy results showed that STX7 did not affect the density of inhibitory synapses but could affect the density of inhibitory vesicles. Taken together, these results reveal a previously unknown function of STX7 in epilepsy and suggest that STX7 may serve as a novel target for epilepsy therapy.

Background: The D-isoforms of amino acids (D-AAs) exhibit anti-biofilm potential against a diverse range of bacterial species in vitro, while its role in vivo remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a combination of D-AAs and vancomycin on a PJI rat model. Methods: Eight-week-old male SD rats were randomized to the control group, sham group, vancomycin group, D-AAs–vancomycin group. After treatment for 6 weeks, we analysed the levels of inflammatory factors in serum, behavioural change, imaging manifestations. The anti-biofilm ability of D-AAs was detected by crystal violet staining and scanning electron microscope observation, and its ability to assist antibiotics in killing bacteria was assessed by culture of bacteria. Additionally, micro-CT and histological analysis were used to evaluate the impact of D-AAs combined with vancomycin on the bone remodelling around the prosthesis. Results: The group treated with a D-AAs–vancomycin combination sustained normal weight gain and exhibited reduced the serum levels of α2M, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α and PGE2. Moreover, treated with D-AAs in combination with vancomycin improved the weight-bearing activity performance, increased the sizes and widths of distal femurs, and improved Rissing scale scoring. In particular, treatment using D-AAs enhanced the ability of vancomycin to eradicate Staphylococcus aureus, as demonstrated by the dispersion of existing biofilms and the inhibition of biofilm formation that occurred in a concentration-dependent manner. This treatment combination also resulted in a reduction in bacterial burden with in the soft tissues, bones, and implants. Furthermore, D-AAs–vancomycin combination treatment attenuated abnormal bone remodelling around the implant, as evidenced by an observed increase in BMD, BV/TV, and Tb.Th and the presence of reduced Trap+ osteoclasts and elevated osterix+ osteo-progenitors. Conclusions: Combining D-AAs with vancomycin provides an effective therapeutic strategy for the treatment of PJI by promoting biofilm dispersion to enhance antimicrobial activity.

Objective(s): Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common arrhythmia with atrial myocyte hypertrophy linked with stroke, heart failure, and increased mortality. Lysyl oxidase-like 2 (LOXL2) involves the cross-linking of collagen in the extracellular matrix (ECM). In the present study, we investigated the roles and underlying mechanisms of LOXL2 on cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Materials and Methods: The expression of LOXL2 mRNA and protein were detected in angiotensin II (Ang II) treated rat cardiomyocytes H9c2 by RT-qPCR and western blot. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) mediated LOXL2 gene silencing was used to evaluate cardiac hypertrophy and related markers. Also, the protein expression of EMT markers and Smad3/NF-κB pathway was determined by western blot. Results: Ang II significantly increased mRNA and protein expressions of LOXL2 and increased mRNA levels of myocardial hypertrophy markers, including ANP, BNP, and β-MHC in H9c2 cells. Silencing of LOXL2 significantly suppressed Ang II-induced hypertrophy and reversed the increase in ANP, BNP, and β-MHC mRNA levels. Also, EMT markers’ expressions, as evidenced by increased E-cadherin and decreased vimentin, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), fibroblast-specific protein (FSP), and collagen 1A1. Mechanistically, we found that LOXL2 silencing suppressed protein expressions of TGF-β1, p-Smad3, and p-NF-κB in Ang II-stimulated H9c2 cells. LOXL2 silencing also attenuated Ang II-induced increased expression and content of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β (H) and TNF-α. Conclusion: Our data speculated that LOXL2 might be a potential contributing factor to Ang II-induced cardiac hypertrophy, and TGF-β1/Smad3/NF-κB is involved in a signal axis and might be a potential strategy in treating cardiac hypertrophy.

Abstract Monoclonal antibodies are at the vanguard of the most promising cancer treatments. Whereas traditional therapeutic antibodies have been limited to extracellular antigens, T cell receptor mimic (TCRm) antibodies can target intracellular antigens presented by cell surface major histocompatibility complex (MHC) proteins. TCRm antibodies can therefore target a repertoire of otherwise undruggable cancer antigens. However, the consequences of off-target peptide/MHC recognition with engineered T cell therapies are severe, and thus there are significant safety concerns with TCRm antibodies. Here we explored the specificity and safety profile of a new TCRm-based T cell therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a solid tumor for which no effective treatment exists. We targeted an alpha-fetoprotein peptide presented by HLA-A*02 with a highly specific TCRm, which crystallographic structural analysis showed binds directly over the HLA protein and interfaces with the full length of the peptide. We fused the TCRm to the γ and δ subunits of a TCR, producing a signaling AbTCR construct. This was combined with an scFv/CD28 co-stimulatory molecule targeting glypican-3 for increased efficacy towards tumor cells. This AbTCR + co-stimulatory T cell therapy showed potent activity against AFP-positive cancer cell lines in vitro and an in an in vivo model and undetectable activity against AFP-negative cells. In an in-human safety assessment, no significant adverse events or cytokine release syndrome were observed and evidence of efficacy was seen. Remarkably, one patient with metastatic HCC achieved a complete remission after nine months and ultimately qualified for a liver transplant.

Abstract Simultaneously improving the energy density and power density of electrochemical energy storage systems is the ultimate goal of electrochemical energy storage technology. An effective strategy to achieve this goal is to take advantage of the high capacity and rapid kinetics of electrochemical proton storage to break through the power limit of batteries and the energy limit of capacitors. This article aims to review the research progress on the physicochemical properties, electrochemical performance, and reaction mechanisms of electrode materials for electrochemical proton storage. According to the different charge storage mechanisms, the surface redox, intercalation, and conversion materials are classified and introduced in detail, where the influence of crystal water and other nanostructures on the migration kinetics of protons is clarified. Several reported advanced full cell devices are summarized to promote the commercialization of electrochemical proton storage. Finally, this review provides a framework for research directions of charge storage mechanism, basic principles of material structure design, construction strategies of full cell device, and goals of practical application for electrochemical proton storage.

BackgroundThe current treatment program with penehyclidine hydrochloride (PHC) for acute severe organophosphorus pesticide poisoning (ASOPP) patients exerts a positive effect but with concerned adverse reactions.ObjectiveTo evaluate the treatment effect of a revised ASOPP treatment program with PHC.MethodsA prospective single-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted. A total of 157 patients with ASOPP were divided into a revised treatment group (82 cases) and a conventional treatment group (75 cases) by random number table. The two groups received the same basic treatment measures including active life support, routine gastric lavage, catharsis, and pralidoxime treatment. The revised treatment group followed a revised PHC treatment protocol initiated by first a small dose of PHC and followed by small doses of PHC administration/discontinuation through frequent observations at different time points. The conventional treatment group received the conventional program. Treatment effects and incidence rates of possible adverse reactions were compared between the two groups.ResultsCompared with the conventional treatment group, the revised treatment group obtained delay in penetrogenation time point, higher success rate in catharsis, earlier cholinesterase-turning time, and shorter hospitalization period with statistical significance (all Ps＜0.05). No differences were found in terms of time for symptoms of poisoning to disappear, incidence rates of intermediate myasthenic syndrome and delayed polyneuropathy, mechanical ventilation time, and cure rate (all Ps＞0.05). Less adverse reactions occurred in the revised treatment group including tachycardia and delirium than in the conventional treatment control group (all Ps＜0.05).ConclusionThe revised ASOPP treatment program with PHC is similar to the current recommended treatment program in treatment effects, but with less adverse reactions.

The development of micro-nano pores and throats in shale oil reservoirs has made it complicated and diversified for the occurrence and state of oil, and is difficult to be studied. A case study was carried out with the Middle Permian Lucaogou Formation in the Jimsar Sag of Junggar Basin by the approaches of Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), Laser Scanning Confocal Microscope (LSCM) and nano-CT. The plane porosities of siltstones and dolomitic siltstones in sweet spots of the study area range from 11.0% to 23.5%, and the dissolved pores and intragranular dissolved pores larger than 2 μm account for more than 49.0%. The distribution of oil and pore water has strong differentiation in micro-nano scale, which is controlled by complex factors such as overpressure migration of hydrocarbon generation, pore surface adsorption and oil quality difference in different stages of continuous shale oil accumulation. In sweet spot reservoirs, intermediate oil and free water occur in the center of pores larger than 2 μm, while heavy oil exists on pore surface as thin film. Pores with the size smaller than 2 μm are mainly filled with heavy oil. Intermediate oil is relatively easier to be explored, while heavy oil is a more realistic and feasible target for enhanced oil recovery in the future.

Analysis of the biomarkers of saturated hydrocarbon and related compound specific carbon isotopes of crude oils were carried out for the research of origin of oils and controlling factors of oil properties in the Mosuowan area of the Junggar Basin, and mixed-source oil simulation was also carried out to reveal hydrocarbon accumulation in the study area. The carbon isotope of crude oil in the Pen 5 well block is relatively heavy, the Pr/Ph value is higher, between 1.4 and 1.9, and the index of adamantane isomerization is greater, indicating that the oil maturity of the Pen 5 well block is higher than that of the Pencan 2 well and had a more oxidative sedimental environment. The C7 light hydrocarbons of oil of the Mosuowan area are dominated by methylcyclohexane, with a content over 40%, and the distributions of regular steranes are dominated by C29 homologues with a content over 40%. Crude oils in the study area are thus indicated to be generated from terrestrial partial humus source rocks. The carbon isotope compositions and distribution of n-alkanes in the Pen 5 and Pencan 2 well blocks are similar, indicating that they were from the comparable sources, and they are generally similar to the source rocks in the Lower Wuerhe Formation. But the carbon isotope values of n-alkanes with different carbon numbers in the source rocks of the Lower Wuerhe Formation have a large span, reaching 4.6‰, while the carbon isotope values of n-alkanes with different carbon numbers of crude oil in the Mosuowan area have a smaller span, between 2.2‰ and 3.0‰. It is mainly caused by the different mixing ratio of crude oil. The quantitative calculation results of biomarkers in mixed-source oil showed that crude oil in the Mosuowan area was mainly derived from the late high-maturity source rocks in the Lower Wuerhe Formation, mixed with those from the early mature source rocks in the Fengcheng Formation. Among them, the high-maturity source rocks in the Lower Wuerhe Formation have a relatively greater contribution to crude oil in the Pen 5 well block, around 80%, and contribute about 60% to crude oil in the Pencan 2 well block. As a result, it is concluded that different proportions of mixed sources are the main reason which caused differences in the geochemical characteristics of crude oil in the Mosuowan area.

Low-grade heat conversion has recently emerged and displayed great promise in sustainable electronics and energy areas. Here, the authors propose a new zinc ion thermal charging cell with hybrid behaviours for high value-added conversion from heat to electricity.

As a key regulator for the renin-angiotensin system, a class A G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), AngII type 2 receptor (AT2R), plays a pivotal role in the homeostasis of the cardiovascular system. Compared with other GPCRs, AT2R has a unique antagonist-bound conformation and its mechanism is still an enigma. Here, we applied combined dynamic and evolutional approaches to investigate the conformational space and intrinsic properties of AT2R. With molecular dynamic simulations, Markov State Models, and statistics coupled analysis, we captured the conformational landscape of AT2R and identified its uniquity from both dynamical and evolutional viewpoints. A cryptic pocket was also discovered in the intermediate state during conformation transitions. These findings offer a deeper understanding of the AT2R mechanism at an atomic level and provide hints for the design of novel AT2R modulators.

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a chronic infectious disease transmitted by sandflies. The primary clinical manifestations are remittent fever, pancytopenia, and splenomegaly. As VL is rare with atypical symptoms, its diagnosis is often incorrect, missed, or delayed. Without appropriate treatment, the case fatality rate of symptomatic disease is more than 95%, but the prognosis is good if diagnosed and treated timeously. We report a case of VL that was diagnosed using metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) of a peripheral blood sample. By using mNGS and a bone marrow smear, we were able to make a timely diagnosis. The patient was treated with antimony, rapidly recovered, and was discharged from the hospital. This case illustrates the value of mNGS for making a timely diagnosis of VL.

Objectives: Non-specific low back pain affects people of all ages and is a leading contributor to disease burden worldwide. Chronic low back pain (LBP) reduces working hours, increases comorbidities, and increases rehabilitation needs. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether there were differences in pain, dysfunction, and psychological factors between two groups. The supplementary demonstrated the relationship between these influencing factors and anxiety.Methods: A cross-sectional study was designed to analyze the differences in pain, disability, and psychological function in non-specific LBP patients with and without anxiety. In total, 60 subjects were divided into two groups based on self-rated anxiety scores: 30 patients with SAS score ≥50 were in the low back pain with anxiety group, and 30 for the LBP without anxiety group with SAS score

BackgroundPapillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) is defined as a papillary carcinoma measuring ≤ 10 mm. The current management of PTMC has become more conservative; however, there are high-risk tumor features that can be revealed only postoperatively. For thyroid cancer, BRAF mutations and somatic copy number variation (CNV) are the most common genetic events. Molecular testing may contribute to clinical decision-making by molecular risk stratification, for example predicting lymph node (LN) metastasis. Here, we build a risk stratification model based on molecular profiling of thyroid fine needle aspiration (FNA) washout DNA (wDNA) for the differential diagnosis of thyroid nodules.MethodsFifty-eight patients were recruited, FNA wDNA samples were analyzed using CNV profiling through low-coverage whole genome sequencing (LC-WGS) and BRAF mutation was analyzed using quantitative PCR. FNA pathology was reported as a Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology (BSRTC) score. Ultrasound examination produced a Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (TIRADS) score.ResultsIn total, 37 (63.8%) patients with a TIRADS score of 4A, 13 (22.4%) patients with a TIRADS score of 4B, and 8 (13.8%) patients with a TIRADS score of 4C were recruited after ultrasound examination. All patients underwent FNA with wDNA profiling. CNVs were identified in 17 (29.3%) patients. CNVs were frequent in patients with a BSRTC score of V or VI, including eight (47.1%) patients with a score of VI and five (29.4%) with a score of V, but not in patients with a score of III, II, or I (0%). BRAF mutation was not significantly correlated with BSRTC score. LN metastasis was found more frequently in CNV-positive (CNV+) than in CNV-negative (CNV–) patients (85.7% vs. 34.6%, odds ratio = 11.33, p = 0.002). In total, three molecular subtypes of thyroid nodules were identified in this study: 1) CNV+, 2) CNV– and BRAF positive (BRAF+), and 3) CNV– and BRAF negative (BRAF–). For the CNV+ subtype, 10 (83.3%) lesions with LN metastasis were found, including four (100%) small lesions (i.e. ≤ 5 mm). For the CNV– and BRAF+ nodules, LN metastases were detected in only seven (60.0%) larger tumors (i.e. > 5 mm). For CNV– and BRAF– tumors, LN metastasis was also frequently found in larger tumors only.ConclusionsIt is feasible to identify high-risk LN metastasis thyroid cancer from FNA washout samples preoperatively using wDNA CNV profiling using LC-WGS.

Domestic 10X-type and 13X-type molecular sieves were used for the adsorption and desorption experiments of steranes and hopanes, and their stable carbon isotopic fractionation by the two kinds of molecular sieves during separation process was discussed in detail. These two kinds of molecular sieves have various adsorption effects on different types of compounds. They both have the weakest adsorption capacities for 5α, 14α, 17α-20S steranes, 5α, 14β, 17β-20R steranes and 5α, 14β, 17β-20S steranes, followed by 5α, 14α, 17α-20R steranes, β-carotane, and gammacerane. The 13X-type molecular sieve has stronger adsorption capacity for hopanes than that of the 10X-type molecular sieve, which can be used for the separation of hopanes. The 10X-type molecular sieve has stronger adsorption capacity for steranes than that of the 13X-type molecular sieve. By controlling the amount of eluent, different configuration of steranes can be further separated. The stable carbon isotopes of steranes and hopanes showed that no carbon isotopic fractionation occurred during separation process and the repeatability was very good, indicating that domestic 10X-type and 13X-type molecular sieves can be used for steranes and hopanes separation.

Abstract Background In revision hip arthroplasty, managing the large protrusio acetabular defects remains a challenge. The report described a novel technique which employs a trabecular metal revision shell as a super-augment to buttress the superior medial structure. Methods Between January 2015 and December 2018, the multicup reconstruction was performed in 21 patients with severe protrusio acetabular defects. The revision shell, plus two similar porous acetabular components was implanted into the initial shell to create a “multicup” construct. The functional outcomes were evaluated in terms of the Harris Hip Score. Acetabular loosening, restoration of hip center of rotation, and bone ingrowth etc., were radiographically assessed. The survival rate of the implants was also evaluated. Results A followup lasting a mean time of 31 months (range, 18–57 months) revealed that the average Harris Hip Score improved from preoperative 37.0 ± 7.1 to postoperative 76.4 ± 9.0. There were no revisions due to acetabular loosening. The horizontal offset increased by an average of 14 mm, and the vertical offset decreased by an average of 18 mm. Eighteen of the 21 patients (86 %) met at least 3 of 5 criteria associated with bone ingrowth. The survivorship free from re-revision for acetabular loosening after 2 years was 100 %. Conclusions The multicup reconstruction technique was a simplified re-revision procedure for managing the severe protrusio acetabular defects and could achieve a high survival rate. Level of evidence Therapeutic study, Level IVa.

Summary: The spine has essential roles in supporting body weight, and passaging the neural elements between the body and the brain. In this study, we used integrated single-cell RNA sequencing and single-cell transposase-accessible chromatin sequencing analyses to reveal the cellular heterogeneity, lineage, and transcriptional regulatory network of the developing human spine. We found that EPYC + HAPLN1+ fibroblasts with stem cell characteristics could differentiate into chondrocytes by highly expressing the chondrogenic markers SOX9 and MATN4. Neurons could originate from neuroendocrine cells, and MEIS2 may be an essential transcription factor that promotes spinal neural progenitor cells to selectively differentiate into neurons during early gestation. Furthermore, the interaction of NRP2_SEMA3C and CD74_APP between macrophages and neurons may be essential for spinal cord development. Our integrated map provides a blueprint for understanding human spine development in the early and midgestational stages at single-cell resolution and offers a tool for investigating related diseases.