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Limited cells and factors, inadequate mechanical properties, and necrosis of defects center have hindered the wide clinical application of bone-tissue engineering scaffolds. Herein, we construct a self-oxygenated 3D printed bioactive hydrogel scaffold by integrating oxygen-generating nanoparticles and hybrid double network hydrogel structure. The hydrogel scaffold possesses the characteristics of extracellular matrix; Meanwhile, the fabricated hybrid double network structure by polyacrylamide and CaCl2-crosslinked sodium carboxymethylcellulose endows the hydrogel favorable compressive strength and 3D printability. Furthermore, the O2 generated by CaO2 nanoparticles encapsulated in ZIF-8 releases steadily and sustainably because of the well-developed microporous structure of ZIF-8, which can significantly promote cell viability and proliferation in vitro, as well as angiogenesis and osteogenic differentiation with the assistance of Zn2+. More significantly, the synergy of O2 and 3D printed pore structure can prevent necrosis of defects center and facilitate cell infiltration by providing cells the nutrients and space they need, which can further induce vascular network ingrowth and accelerate bone regeneration in all areas of the defect in vivo. Overall, this work provides a new avenue for preparing cell/factor-free bone-tissue engineered scaffolds that possess great potential for tissue regeneration and clinical alternative.

Abstract Fuel cell vehicles are a reliable solution to address energy shortages. However, when the road conditions are complex, the system distributes power unevenly between fuel cells and lithium batteries, and cannot effectively absorb the energy generated by braking. In response to this issue, an adaptive control strategy is adopted to allocate the required power of the car to two types of batteries in real time. Fuzzy logic is used to continuously optimize the relevant parameters of the controller based on the vehicle state, and a multi-island genetic algorithm is used to optimize the control strategy, enhancing the global search ability of the control strategy and increasing the vehicle’s ability to absorb and reuse the energy generated by braking. The experiment findings denote that the optimized control strategy increases the remaining capacity of lithium batteries by an average of 1.67%, increases energy recovery by an average of 135 W, increases the overall energy recovery rate by an average of 2.8%, and reduces vehicle fuel consumption by an average of 0.24 L/100 Km. It can be concluded that the optimized adaptive fuzzy control strategy can reduce the probability of over-charging and discharging of lithium batteries and improve the battery life. Meanwhile, the optimized strategy can improve the energy reuse rate, reduce vehicle fuel consumption, lower usage costs. The optimized strategy provides a reference for subsequent research on energy management of fuel cell vehicles.

Abstract Background Temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJOA) is a degenerative cartilage disease. 17β‐estradiol (E2) aggravates the pathological process of TMJOA; however, the mechanisms of its action have not been elucidated. Thus, we investigate the influence of E2 on the cellular biological behaviors of synoviocytes and the molecular mechanisms. Methods Primary fibroblast‐like synoviocytes (FLSs) isolated from rats were treated with TNF‐α to establish cell model, and phenotypes were evaluated using cell counting kit‐8, EdU, Tanswell, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and quantitative real‐time PCR (qPCR). The underlying mechanism of E2, FTO‐mediated NLRC5 m6A methylation, was assessed using microarray, methylated RNA immunoprecipitation, qPCR, and western blot. Moreover, TMJOA‐like rat model was established by intra‐articular injection of monosodium iodoacetate (MIA), and bone morphology and pathology were assessed using micro‐CT and H&E staining. Results The results illustrated that E2 facilitated the proliferation, migration, invasion, and inflammation of TNF‐α‐treated FLSs. FTO expression was downregulated in TMJOA and was reduced by E2 in FLSs. Knockdown of FTO promoted m6A methylation of NLRC5 and enhanced NLRC5 stability by IGF2BP1 recognition. Moreover, E2 promoted TMJ pathology and condyle remodeling, and increased bone mineral density and trabecular bone volume fraction, which was rescued by NLRC5 knockdown. Conclusion E2 promoted the progression of TMJOA.

Beijing is one of the earliest pilot low-carbon cities in China. It was one of the first cities in China to establish a pilot carbon market to achieve this goal. As an emerging market, China’s carbon pricing mechanism is not yet complete. In this context, it is crucial for market managers and companies to predict carbon prices. This study uses a Prophet-EEMD-LSTM model to predict the carbon price in the Beijing carbon market, which significantly improves prediction performance. The advantage of this hybrid model is that it considers the particularities of carbon prices including trends, cyclical changes, and volatility. Considering that the carbon market has multiple complex characteristics, the carbon price is decomposed into multiple simple sequences using the Prophet and EEMD models. These simple sequences were predicted using an LSTM model. The hybrid model outperformed both econometric and single-machine learning models in terms of carbon price prediction. Based on the findings of this study, market managers and companies can take appropriate measures to prevent carbon price risks. These findings are conducive to the smooth operation of the carbon market, thereby providing sustainable support and guidance for the development of low-carbon cities.

Abstract Background Clinical characteristics and long-term data on the safety and efficacy of LAAC in preventing cerebrovascular accident and thromboembolism among Chinese patients with non-valvular AF (NVAF) remain limited. Methods Data of consecutive NVAF patients who underwent LAAC at Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, from June 1, 2014, to December 31, 2021, were collected and analyzed retrospectively. The primary effectiveness endpoint was the composite endpoint of stroke/transient ischemic attack, systemic embolism, and death from cardiovascular causes. The primary safety endpoint is the severe bleeding defined by the LAAC Munich consensus. Results Of the 222 patients enrolled, the mean age was 66.90 ± 9.62 years, with a majority being male (77.03%). Many patients are non-paroxysmal AF (71.19%) with a median duration of AF of 4.00 years. The mean CHA2DS2-VASc score was 3.78 ± 1.49, and the mean HAS-BLED score was 1.68 ± 0.86. Thromboembolic events (76.58%) were the most common indication for LAAC. The device, technical, and procedural success rates were 98.65%, 98.65%, and 93.69%, respectively. The anticoagulation continuation rate was 56.36%, 31.25%, and 22.60% at 3-, 6- and 12 months post-procedure, respectively. Throughout a mean 2.81 years of follow-up, the incidence of the primary efficacy endpoint was 4.27 per 100 patient-years, predominantly attributable to stroke/TIA (3.12 per 100 PYs). Five patients experienced major bleeding during the follow-up period. Post-procedure imaging revealed minimal complications, with only one substantial peri-device leak. Device-related thrombus occurred in 2.33% of patients, resolving with anticoagulation. Conclusion The study demonstrates that LAAC is a safe and effective alternative option for Chinese patients with AF, with a high success rate, few complications as well as fewer long-term adverse outcome events.

In atmospheric modeling, sub-grid parameterization is an important method for studying the topographic effects of solar radiation using high-resolution Digital Elevation Model (DEM) data. For reducing the amount of computation, some approximate methods that can lead to errors are used in existing sub-grid parameterization schemes for clear-sky direct solar radiation (SPS-CSDSR). The lack of a high-precision fast terrain occlusion algorithm (HPFTOA) remains one of the biggest constraints in this field. This study proposed an HPFTOA. It mainly uses two kinds of acceleration algorithms. One method is to use a dynamic, lossless, and fast occlusion search radius. Another way is to use the rectangular grid for calculations within the accuracy of DEM data to avoid coordinate projection conversions. The test results indicate that the HPFTOA can carry out large-scale computation based on DEM data with a resolution of 90 m. Because it rarely uses approximation algorithms and considers the curvature of the Earth, SPS-CSDSR can achieve unprecedented precision. The HPFTOA can also be used in the fields of mountain solar energy assessment, remote sensing, and telemetry, including terrain-obscuring the probe. As computer performance improves and algorithms and execution code are optimized, the application prospects will be very broad.

Existing sub-grid parameterization schemes for clear-sky direct solar radiation (SPS-CSDSR) assume that the sub-grid cells have the same atmospheric transparency. This study shows that in undulating terrain, significant errors can occur when the sub-grid is in turbid weather or partly above the cloud top. A correction factor was proposed. It can effectively eliminate errors under a cloudless sky and can reduce some errors when part of the sub-grid is above the cloud or fog top. For atmospheric models with high horizontal resolution, example test verification shows that the cast shadowless coverage method can lead to large errors. It should no longer be used based on current computing power. These improvements and the high-precision fast terrain occlusion algorithm in Part I will allow SPS-CSDSR to achieve unprecedented high accuracy. Based on the proposed daily interpolation method, the high-precision SPS-CSDSR is also feasible for regional climate simulation. The analysis pointed out that the sub-grid terrain radiative effect (STRE) is distributed over inclined surfaces with larger areas and at different heights. Existing methods of coupling STRE on one flat surface have certain physical drawbacks. This paper suggests introducing parameterization of STRE at different altitudes and improving the coupling of land–air.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are ubiquitous at relatively high concentrations by atmospheric deposition, and they are threatening to the environment. In this study, the toxicity of naphthalene on tall fescue and its potential responding mechanism was first studied by integrating approaches. Tall fescue seedlings were exposed to 0, 20, and 100 mg L−1 naphthalene in a hydroponic environment for 9 days, and toxic effects were observed by the studies of general physiological studies, chlorophyll fluorescence, and root morphology. Additionally, Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography - Electrospray Ionization - High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-HRMS) was used to depict metabolic profiles of tall fescue under different exposure durations of naphthalene, and the intrinsic molecular mechanism of tall fescue resistance to abiotic stresses. Tall fescue shoots were more sensitive to the toxicity of naphthalene than roots. Low-level exposure to naphthalene inhibited the electron transport from the oxygen-evolving complex (OEC) to D1 protein in tall fescue shoots but induced the growth of roots. Naphthalene induced metabolic change of tall fescue roots in 12 h, and tall fescue roots maintained the level of sphingolipids after long-term exposure to naphthalene, which may play important roles in plant resistance to abiotic stresses.

Background: Acute lung injury (ALI)/acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a common respiratory disease characterized by persistent hypoxemia and an uncontrolled inflammatory response. Valsartan, an angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonist, is clinically used to treat hypertension and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects on gefitinib-induced pneumonia in rats. However, the potential therapeutic effects of valsartan on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI remain unclear. This study investigated the protective role of valsartan in LPS-induced ALI and its underlying mechanisms.Methods: LPS-treated BEAS-2B cells and ALI mouse model were established. BEAS-2B cells were treated with LPS (10 μg/mL) for 24h, with or without valsartan (20, 40, and 80 µM). For ALI mouse models, LPS (5 mg/kg) was administered through intratracheal injection to treat the mice for 24h, and valsartan (10 or 30 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally twice 2 h before and 12 h after the LPS injection. Pulmonary functional parameters were examined by an EMKA pulmonary system. Hematoxylin and eosin staining, flow cytometry, CCK-8 assay, qRT-PCR, ELISA, immunofluorescence, Western blotting, and related commercial kits were used to assess the pathological damage to the lungs, neutrophil recruitment in the lung tissue and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), cell viability, inflammation, oxidative activity, and mucus production, respectively. Potential mechanisms were further explored using network pharmacology and Western blotting.Results: Valsartan rescued LPS-reduced cell viability of BEAS-2B cells, improved the pulmonary function, ameliorated pathological lung injury in mice with ALI, ameliorated LPS-induced neutrophil recruitment in BALF and lung tissue of mice, attenuated oxidative stress by increasing the level of SOD and decreasing that of MDA and GSSG, inhibited LPS-induced MUC5AC overproduction, decreased the LPS-induced increase in expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines/chemokines including TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, CXCL-1 and CXCL-2, and restored the expression of anti-inflammatory IL-10. Mechanistic studies showed that valsartan inhibits LPS-induced phosphorylation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κΒ) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) including P38, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) in both LPS-treated cells and the mouse model of ALI.Conclusion: Valsartan protects against LPS-induced ALI by attenuating oxidative stress, reducing MUC5AC production, and attenuating the inflammatory response that may involve MAPK and NF-κΒ pathways.

Background: Hypertension has become a part of the lives of many people worldwide. With the development, an increasing number of people have begun to control their hypertension through products of medicine food homology, such as Buyang Huanwu Decoction (BYHWD). However, there has been no objective review of the regulation of hypertension by BYHWD. Methods: As of 9 October 2023, this review made a detailed search of nine databases to look for random controlled trials (RCTs) focused on the use of BYHWD for treating hypertension. This was followed by network pharmacological analysis, and molecular docking assessment using AutoDockTools to explore the mode of action. Results: BYHWD was effective in reducing SBP (MD: 0.767; 95 % CI: 0.629, 0.905; p = 0.000), DBP (MD: 0.427; 95 % CI: 0.292, 0.561; p = 0.000), 24h SBP (MD: 0.665; 95 % CI: 0.368, 0.962; p = 0.000), 24h DBP (MD: 0.547; 95 % CI: 0.318, 0.777; p = 0.000), dSBP (MD: 0.625; 95 % CI: 0.395, 0.855; p = 0.000), dDBP (MD: 0.632; 95 % CI: 0.401, 0.862; p = 0.000), nSBP (MD: 0.859; 95 % CI: 0.340, 1.377; p = 0.001), nDBP (MD: 0.704; 95 % CI: 0.297, 1.112; p = 0.001), pv (MD: 1.311; 95 % CI: 0.363, 2.259; p = 0.007) and NIHSS (MD: 1.149; 95 % CI: 0.100, 2.199; p = 0.032), and elevating CER (OR = 2.848; 95 % CI: 1.388, 5.843; p = 0.004). However, BYHWD did not significantly reduce HCY, and there was no significant difference in the incidence of AE. In terms of the mechanism of action, the main active ingredient of BYHWD is quercetin, and the core targets are AKT1, MMP9, and others. Molecular docking also showed that quercetin mainly interacts with the amino acid residue CYS-28 of MMP2. Second, the KEGG analysis showed that BYHWD mainly act on HIF-1, Apelin, and cGMP-PKG signalling pathways, and GO analysis showed that it related to the apical part of the cell, circulatory system processes, and nuclear receptor activity. Conclusion: BYHWD can lowered blood pressure, reduced plasma viscosity, and restored neurological function with good tolerability, and had no significant effect on HCY levels. This study further demonstrated that quercetin is the main active ingredient of BYHWD that acts via the AKT1 and HIF-1 signalling pathways. These results provide new guidance for people's dietary choices by the general public.

A novel combination of curved and straight rectangular winglet vortex generator (RWVG) pairs was arranged in a common-flow-up (CFU) configuration on plate fins for enhancing the comprehensive performance of the fin-tube heat exchanger. The effects of RWVGs were compared with those of non-RWVGs for flow streamline, temperature distribution, and pressure field. Then the thermohydraulic performance and the comprehensive performance were numerically investigated among the cases with varied locations and sizes of RWVGs. The results revealed that j for all cases with RWVGs was higher than non-RWVGs and the values of JF were greater than 1.0 for all cases except for case 4. Especially, apparent improvements in heat transfer characteristics and comprehensive performance were observed with the novel combination. Furthermore, it was found that the appropriate location and size of RWVGs were able to influence the thermohydraulic characteristic positively. The curved RWVGs with a smaller offset showed better comprehensive performance, and the larger attack angle of the straight RWVGs was accompanied by a higher heat transfer intensity and a greater flowing drag force. Moreover, the curved RWVGs with a larger arc angle performed better in the comprehensive performance, and the length of the straight RWVGs was larger and JF smaller.

Abstract Background MicroRNA (miRNA) is accepted as a critical regulator of cell differentiation. However, whether microRNA-223 (miR-223) could affect the osteogenic differentiation of periodontal ligament (PDL)-derived cells is still unknown. The aim of this study was to explore the mechanisms underlying the roles of miR-223 in the osteogenesis of PDL-derived cells in periodontitis. Methods Microarray analysis and real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were used to identify difference in miR-223 expression pattern between healthy and inflamed gingival tissue. The target genes of miR-223 were predicted based on Targetscan and selected for enrichment analyses based on Metascape database. The gain-and loss-of-function experiments were performed to discuss roles of miR-223 and growth factor receptor genes in osteogenic differentiation of PDL-derived cells. The target relationship between miR-223 and growth factor receptor genes was confirmed by a dual luciferase assay. Osteogenic differentiation of PDL-derived cells was assessed by Alizarin red staining, RT-PCR and western blot detection of osteogenic markers, including osteocalcin (OCN), osteopontin (OPN) and runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2). Results MiR-223 was significantly increased in inflamed gingival tissues and down-regulated in PDL-derived cells during osteogenesis. The expression of miR-223 in gingival tissues was positively correlated with the clinical parameters in periodontitis patients. Overexpression of miR-223 markedly inhibited PDL-derived cells osteogenesis, which was evidenced by reduced Alizarin red staining and osteogenic markers expressions. Furthermore, two growth factor receptor genes, including fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) and transforming growth factor beta receptor 2 (TGFβR2), were revealed to be direct targets of miR-223 and shown to undergo up-regulation in PDL-derived cells during osteogenesis. Moreover, suppression of FGFR2 or TGFβR2 dramatically blocked PDL-derived cells osteogenic differentiation. Conclusions Our study provides novel evidence that miR-223 can be induced by periodontitis and acts as a negative regulator of PDL-derived cells osteogenesis by targeting two growth factor receptors (TGFβR2 and FGFR2).

Since the matrix converter (MC) has no intermediate DC energy storage link, any disturbance at the input will affect the output. To guarantee the safe and stable operation of MC system, a feed-forward compensation (FFC) strategy for MC operation in abnormal input voltage conditions, including voltage unbalanced, non-sinusoidal and instantaneous drop, is presented in this paper. The drive performance on the Space Vector Modulation (SVM) Strategy of MC under abnormal input voltage conditions is deeply analyzed. It is proved that the unbalance, non-sinusoidal and instantaneous drop of the input voltage can be compensated by real-time adjusting the SVM coefficient of the control system. The output voltage of MC is kept at normal value by compensating the change of virtual DC voltage. Finally, the control strategy is verified by simulation and experiment.

β-lactamase, a kind of hydrolase in multi-drug resistant pathogens, can hydrolyze β-lactam antibiotics and make these kinds of antibiotics invalid. Small-molecular inhibitors about the enzyme and their mechanism are widely investigated but they may result in unavoidable adverse reactions and drug-resistance. Herein, we propose a new therapeutic strategy of Chinese materioherbology, in which herbal medicine or traditional Chinese medicinal herbs can be employed as biological functional materials or refreshed/excited by means of materialogy. Natural tea nanoclusters (TNCs) were extracted from tea to inhibit β-lactamase. Different from the mechanism of small-molecular inhibitors inhibiting enzymes by binding to the corresponding active sites, the TNCs as a cap cover the protein pocket and create a spatial barrier between the active sites and antibiotics, which was named “capping-pocket” effect. TNCs were combined with amoxicillin sodium (Amo) to treat the methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) pneumonia in mice. This combinatorial therapy remarkably outperforms antibiotic monotherapy in reducing MRSA infections and the associated inflammation in mice. The therapeutic strategy exhibited excellent biosafety, without any side effects, even in piglets. Hence, TNCs have great clinical value in potentiating β-lactam antibiotic activity for combatting multi-drug resistant pathogen infections and the ''pocket capping'' effect can guide the design of new enzyme inhibitors in near future.

Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease initiated by bacterial infection, developed by excessive immune response, and aggravated by high level of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Hence, herein, a versatile metal-organic framework (MOF)-based nanoplatform is prepared using mesoporous Prussian blue (MPB) nanoparticles to load BA, denoted as MPB-BA. The established MPB-BA nanoplatform serves as a shelter and reservoir for vulnerable immunomodulatory drug BA, which possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effects. Thus, MPB-BA can exert its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory functions through scavenging intracellular ROS to switch macrophages from M1 to M2 phenotype so as to relieve inflammation. The underlying molecular mechanism lies in the upregulation of phosphorylated nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) to scavenge ROS and subsequently inhibit the nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) signal pathway. Moreover, MPB-BA also exhibited efficient photothermal antibacterial activity against periodontal pathogens under near-infrared (NIR) light irradiation. In vivo RNA sequencing results revealed the high involvement of both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways after MPB-BA application. Meanwhile, micro-CT and immunohistochemical staining of p-Nrf2 and p-P65 further confirmed the superior therapeutic effects of MPB-BA than minocycline hydrochloride. This work may provide an insight into the treatment of periodontitis by regulating Nrf2/NF-κB signaling pathway through photothermal bioplatform-assisted immunotherapy.

Adopting the connection group structure of Dd0yn11, this paper designs a novel low-voltage (LV) distribution transformer (DT) based on inductive filtering (IF), and verifies the proposed transformer through a comprehensive innovation experiment. Firstly, the functional relationship between valve-side harmonic current and grid-side current was derived according to the winding model, and the filtering features were obtained to compute the impedance between the valve- and grid-side windings. Next, the design calculation was carried out by the engineering magnetic circuit (EMC) method. After that, a three-dimensional (3D) model was established for the proposed transformer on ANSYS Maxwell. The simulation results show that the proposed transformer meets the design requirements on the relevant parameters, and eliminates the harmonic pollution in the grid. Finally, the proposed transformer was proved correct and effective through experiments, and found to stimulate studentsꞌ interest in learning and innovation.

Abstract Background Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease in oral cavity owing to bacterial infection. Photothermal therapy (PTT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) have many advantages for antibacterial treatment. As an excellent photosensitizer, indocyanine green (ICG) shows prominent photothermal and photodynamic performances. However, it is difficult to pass through the negatively charged bacterial cell membrane, thus limiting its antibacterial application for periodontitis treatment. Results In this work, self-assembled nanoparticles containing ICG and polycationic brush were prepared for synergistic PTT and PDT against periodontitis. First, a star-shaped polycationic brush poly(2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate) (sPDMA) was synthesized via atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of DMA monomer from bromo-substituted β-cyclodextrin initiator (CD-Br). Next, ICG was assembled with sPDMA to prepare ICG-loaded sPDMA (sPDMA@ICG) nanoparticles (NPs) and the physicochemical properties of these NPs were characterized systematically. In vitro antibacterial effects of sPDMA@ICG NPs were investigated in porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), one of the recognized periodontitis pathogens. A ligature-induced periodontitis model was established in Sprague–Dawley rats for in vivo evaluation of anti-periodontitis effects of sPDMA@ICG NPs. Benefiting from the unique brush-shaped architecture of sPDMA polycation, sPDMA@ICG NPs significantly promoted the adsorption and penetration of ICG into the bacterial cells and showed excellent PTT and PDT performances. Both in vitro and in vivo, sPDMA@ICG NPs exerted antibacterial and anti-periodontitis actions via synergistic PTT and PDT. Conclusions A self-assembled nanosystem containing ICG and polycationic brush has shown promising clinical application for synergistic PTT and PDT against periodontitis. Graphical Abstract

IntroductionPersistent left superior vena cava (PLSVC) is the most common form of thoracic venous abnormality. Catheter ablation (CA) for atrial fibrillation (AF) can be complicated by the existence of PLSVC, which could act as an important arrhythmogenic mechanism in AF.Methods and resultsWe reported a case series of patients with PLSVC who underwent CA for AF at our center between 2018 and 2021. A systematic search was also performed on PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science for research reporting CA for AF in patients with PLSVC. Sixteen patients with PLSVC were identified at our center. Ablation targeting PLSVC was performed in 5 patients in the index procedures and in four patients receiving redo procedures. One patient experienced acute procedure failure. After a median follow-up period of 15 months, only 6 (37.5%) patients remained free from AF/atrial tachycardia (AT) after a single procedure. In the systematic review, 11 studies with 167 patients were identified. Based on the included studies, the estimated prevalence of PLSVC in patients undergoing CA for AF was 0.7%. Ablation targeting PLSVC was performed in 121 (74.7%) patients. Major complications in patients with PLSVC receiving AF ablation procedure included four cases of cardiac tamponades (2%), three cases of cardiac effusion (1.5%), one case of ischemic stroke, and three cases of phrenic nerve injury (1.5%) (one left phrenic nerve and two right phrenic nerve). Pooled analysis revealed that after a median follow-up period of 15.6 months (IQR 12.0–74.0 months), the long-term AF/AT-free rate was 70.6% (95% CI 62.8–78.4%, I2 = 0.0%) (Central illustration). Different ablation strategies for PLSVC were summarized and discussed in the systematic review.ConclusionIn patients with PLSVC, recurrence of atrial arrhythmia after CA for AF is relatively common. Ablation aiming for PLSVC isolation is necessitated in most patients. The overall risk of procedural complications was within an acceptable range.

Both phototherapy via photocatalysts and physical puncture by artificial nanostructures are promising substitutes for antibiotics when treating drug-resistant bacterial infectious diseases. However, the photodynamic therapeutic efficacy of photocatalysts is seriously restricted by the rapid recombination of photogenerated electron–hole pairs. Meanwhile, the nanostructures of physical puncture are limited to two-dimensional (2D) platforms, and they cannot be fully used yet. Thus, this research developed a synergistic system of Ag3PO4 nanoparticles (NPs), decorated with black urchin-like defective TiO2 (BU–TiO2-X/Ag3PO4). These NPs had a decreased bandgap compared to BU-TiO2-X, and BU-TiO2-X/Ag3PO4 (3:1) exhibited the lowest bandgap and the highest separation efficiency for photogenerated electron–hole pairs. After combination with BU-TiO2-X, the photostability of Ag3PO4 improved because the oxygen vacancy of BU-TiO2-X retards the reduction of Ag+ in Ag3PO4 into Ag0, thus reducing its toxicity. In addition, the nanospikes on the surface of BU-TiO2-X can, from all directions, physically puncture bacterial cells, thus assisting the hybrid's photodynamic therapeutic effects, alongside the small amount of Ag+ released from Ag3PO4. This achieves synergy, endowing the hybrid with high antibacterial efficacy of 99.76 ± 0.15% and 99.85 ± 0.09% against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, respectively, after light irradiation for 20 min followed by darkness for 12 h. It is anticipated that these findings may bring new insight for developing synergistic treatment strategies against bacterial infectious diseases or pathogenic bacterial polluted environments.

MXenes have emerged as potential antimicrobial materials. Here, the authors report on the creation of a Schottky junction to increase the charge separation between MXenes and semiconductor to increase photodynamic creation of reactive oxygen species under near infrared irradiation for antibacterial purposes.

There is a need for induction filter technology in the field of low-voltage distribution networks. This paper proposes an induction filter distribution transformer with a unique Dd0yn11 three-winding configuration. This approach allows for the control of load side harmonics in low-voltage distribution networks. At present, the induction filter technology proposed in the known literature is mostly used in the high-voltage power system, but there is still no research on the application of induction filter technology to the distribution transformer with Dyn11 under the low-voltage distribution network. In this paper, the wiring scheme of inductive filter distribution transformer and filter system in low-voltage distribution network is established firstly, then the mathematical relationship between the harmonic current generated by the load side and the current on the grid side is derived according to the winding model, and it can be deduced that the induction filter distribution transformer with its filtering system has good filtering performance and reactive power compensation characteristics. Finally, the experiment simulates the three-phase harmonic load, detects the current waveform and other parameters of the actual grid side of the new transformer, verifies the correctness of the theoretical analysis. The induction filter distribution transformer proposed in this paper provides a new solution for harmonic suppression and reactive power compensation in low-voltage distribution network, which fills the vacancy of the application of induction filter technology in low-voltage distribution network, This paper reveals that the inductive filter technique has a good filtering performance when applied to low-voltage distribution network. And it provides a reference for further research on improving power grid efficiency, saving energy cost and improving transformer electromagnetic environment under low-voltage distribution network.

Deep tissue infections can be difficult to treat due to limited light penetration associated with phototherapies. Here, the authors report on a bacterial capture system for antibiotic delivery and microwave-assisted killing of MRSA in osteomyelitis and demonstrate application in vivo.

Tumor metastasis and invasion are the main impediments to lung adenocarcinoma successful treatment. Previous studies demonstrate that chemotherapeutic agents can elevate the malignancy of cancer cells other than their therapeutic effects. In this study, the effects of transient low-dose cisplatin treatment on the malignant development of lung adenocarcinoma cells (A549) were detected, and the underlying epigenetic mechanisms were investigated. The findings showed that A549 cells exhibited epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-like phenotype along with malignant progression under the transient low-dose cisplatin treatment. Meanwhile, low-dose cisplatin was found to induce contactin-1 (CNTN-1) upregulation in A549 cells. Subsequently, we found that further overexpressing CNTN-1 in A549 cells obviously activated the EMT process in vitro and in vivo, and caused malignant development of A549 cells in vitro. Taken together, we conclude that low-dose cisplatin can activate the EMT process and resulting malignant progression through upregulating CNTN-1 in A549 cells. The findings provided new evidence that a low concentration of chemotherapeutic agents could facilitate the malignancy of carcinoma cells via activating the EMT process other than their therapeutic effects.

Primary pulmonary mucoepidermoid carcinoma (PMEC) is a very rare form of lung carcinoma. Due to the low incidence, little is known about its inherent genetic variation characteristics. The uniform treatment for PMEC has not been determined. In this case, we present a 45-year-old male with stage IA PMEC. The surgical specimens contained changes from low- to intermediate-to-high grade. We performed integrative analysis of whole-exome sequencing (WES-seq) and messenger ribonucleic acid sequencing (RNA-seq) to compare the molecular changes in the different lesions. Molecular testing exhibits the specimens harboring CRTC3-MAML2 fusion. The copy number gain of PDPK1 is only present in high-grade regional specimens. We also explored the level of immune infiltration by CIBERSORT. To our knowledge, this is the first report to describe a case of PMEC in the low- to intermediate–high-grade transition with multiomics analysis.

The bacterial invasions and inflammatory responses after implant placement often affect osseointegration; the increased secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines can lead to poor formation of bone and bone absorption. Previous research has shown that the antimicrobial peptide 6K-F17 has antibacterial and immunomodulatory properties. The objective of this study was to optimize KR−1 and KR−2, based on 6K-F17, to apply to the tissue around the oral implant. Our first objective is to study its antibacterial properties, and then we intend to further study its osteogenic ability to osteoblasts by modulating the immune response of macrophages. In this research, KR−1 and KR−2 can inhibit the formation of bacterial biofilm, and further kill bacteria S. gordonii and F. nucleatum by destroying the cell wall and cell membrane of bacteria. The novel peptides restrained the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway by reducing the phosphorylation levels of IκBα and p65, inhibiting the degradation of IκBα and the nuclear translocation of p65, and increasing the percentage of M2 phenotype in macrophages. This suppressed the inflammatory response induced by lipopolysaccharides and enhanced the osteogenic activity of osteoblasts; this, in turn, promoted osteogenesis. The antimicrobial peptide KR−1 showed better performance. Our results demonstrate that KR−1 and KR−2 have antibacterial and bone immunomodulatory effects, and further promote osteogenesis by modulating the immune microenvironment, which provides the possibility for the adjuvant treatment of peri-implant diseases.

Peri-implantitis, an infectious disease originating from dental biofilm that forms around dental implants, which causes the loss of both osseointegration and bone tissue. KN-17, a truncated cecropin B peptide, demonstrated efficacy against certain bacterial strains associated with peri-implantitis. This study aimed to assess the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and mechanisms of KN-17. The effects of KN-17 on oral pathogenic bacteria were assessed by measuring its minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). Moreover, the cytotoxicity and anti-inflammatory effects of KN-17 were evaluated. KN-17 inhibited the growth of Streptococcus gordonii and Fusobacterium nucleatum during in vitro biofilm formation and possessed low toxicity to hBMSCs cells. KN-17 also caused RAW264.7 macrophages to transform from M1 to M2 by downregulating pro-inflammatory and upregulating anti-inflammatory factors. It inhibited the NF-κB signaling pathway by reducing IκBα and P65 protein phosphorylation while promoting IκBα degradation and nuclear P65 translocation. KN-17 might be an efficacious prophylaxis against peri-implant inflammation.

Naringin has been shown to exert protective effects in an animal model of ulcerative colitis, but detailed mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate function and signaling mechanisms underlying naringin-induced therapeutic effects on colitis. Two mouse models were established to mimic human Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by treating drinking water with dextran sodium sulphate or intra-colonic administration of 2, 4, 6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid. Transcriptomics combined with functional experiments were used to investigate underlying mechanisms. Colitis symptoms, including weight loss and high disease activity index were significantly reversed by naringin. The inflammatory response, oxidative reactions, and epithelial cell apoptosis that occur with colitis were also alleviated by naringin. After naringin treatment, transcriptomics results identified 753 differentially expressed mRNAs that were enriched in signaling pathways, including the neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, calcium signaling, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling. The naringin-induced alleviation of colitis was significantly inhibited by the PPAR-γ inhibitor BADGE. In IEC-6 and RAW264.7 cells incubated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), NF-κB-p65, a downstream protein of PPAR-γ, was significantly increased. Naringin suppressed LPS-induced high expression of NF-κB-p65, which was inhibited by small interfering RNA targeting PPAR-γ. Our study clarifies detailed mechanisms underlying naringin-induced therapeutic effects on mice colitis, and PPAR-γ was found to be the main target of naringin by functional experiments both in vivo and in vitro. Our study supplies new scientific information for the use of naringin in colitis treatment.

Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are emerging as important players in inflammatory diseases. The oral mucosal barrier harbors all ILC subsets, but how these cells regulate the immune responses in periodontal ligament tissue during periodontitis remains undefined. Here, we show that total ILCs are markedly increased in periodontal ligament of periodontitis patients compared with healthy controls. Among them, ILC1s and ILC3s, particularly NKp44+ILC3 subset, are the predominant subsets accumulated in the periodontal ligament. Remarkably, ILC1s and ILC3s from periodontitis patients produce more IL-17A and IFN-γ than that from healthy controls. Collectively, our results highlight the role of ILCs in regulating oral immunity and periodontal ligament inflammation and provide insights into targeting ILCs for the treatment of periodontitis.

The main objective of this study is to evaluate the antibacterial effect of antibacterial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) on Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) biofilm model in vitro. The selection of photosensitizers is the key step for the efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT). However, no studies have been conducted in the oral field to compare the functional characteristics and application effects of PDT mediated by various photosensitizers. In this research, the antibacterial effect of Methylene blue (MB)/650nm laser and Hematoporphyrin monomethyl ether (HMME)/532nm laser on S. mutans biofilm was compared under different energy densities to provide experimental reference for the clinical application of the two PDT. The yield of lactic acid was analyzed by Colony forming unit (CFU) and spectrophotometry, and the complete biofilm activity was measured by Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM) to evaluate the bactericidal effect on each group. Based on the results of CFU, the bacterial colonies formed by 30.4J/cm2 532nm MB-aPDT group and 30.4J/cm2 532nm HMME-aPDT group were significantly less than those in other groups, and the bacterial colonies in HMME-aPDT group were less than those in HMME-aPDT group. Lactic acid production in all treatment groups except the photosensitizer group was statistically lower than that in the normal saline control group. The activity of bacterial plaque biofilm was significantly decreased in the two groups treated with 30.4J/cm2 aPDT. Therefore, aPDT suitable for energy measurement can kill S. mutans plaque biofilm, and MB-aPDT is better than HMME-aPDT.

Three-phase unbalanced and nonlinear loads aggravate harmonic problems in low-voltage distribution networks. In this paper, a hybrid inductive and active filter (HIAF) system with a Ddy converter transformer is proposed. By establishing the circuit and corresponding mathematical models, the working mechanism of the HIAF system in harmonic suppression is analyzed. In the designed HIAF system, we install the detection point on the grid-side winding and the compensation point on the filtering winding. Since both windings have the same connection, no phase compensation between the harmonic detection point and compensation point is demanded. Eventually, we apply a harmonic damping control and zero-value impedance control strategy to realize harmonic suppression under both balanced and unbalanced loads. The simulation results show that the HIAF system can effectively suppress harmonics under various load conditions.

An exosome (30–150 nm size) is a cell-derived vesicle. Exosome-induced regulation in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is becoming increasingly popular due to their potential functions of exosomal pathways. Exosomes, which are involved in the regulation of IBD, can be released from various cell types, or found in many physiological fluids, and plants. The specific functions of exosomes in IBD primarily depend on the internal functional components, including RNAs, proteins, and other substances. However, exosome-induced transport mechanisms involving cell-cell communications or cell-environment interactions are also very important. Recent studies have revealed that exosome crosstalk mechanisms may influence major IBD-related pathways, such as immune responses, barrier functions, and intestinal flora. This review highlights the advancements in the biology of exosome secretions and their regulation in IBD. The functional roles of exosomal components, including nucleic acids, proteins, and some other components, are the main focus of this review. More animal and clinical research is needed to study the functions of exosomes on IBD. Designing new drug dosage form using exosome-like-structure may provide new insights into IBD treatment. This review suggests a potential significance for exosomes in IBD diagnosis and treatment.

Asthma is characterized by airway inflammation and mucus hypersecretion. Curcumin possessed a potent anti-inflammatory property involved in the PPARγ-dependent NF-κB signaling pathway. Then, the aim of the current study was to explore the value of curcumin in asthmatic airway inflammation and mucus secretion and its underlying mechanism. In vivo, mice were sensitized and challenged by ovalbumin (OVA) to induce chronic asthma. Airway inflammation and mucus secretion were analyzed. In vitro, BEAS-2B cells were obtained. MCP-1, MUC5AC, and PPARγ expression and the phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 and NF-κB p65 DNA-binding activity were measured in both the lungs and BEAS-2B cells. shRNA-PPARγ was used to knock down PPARγ expression. We found that OVA-induced airway inflammation and mucus hypersecretion in mice, OVA and IL-4-induced upregulation of MCP-1 and MUC5AC, suppression of PPARγ, and activation and translocation of NF-κB p65 were notably improved by curcumin both in vivo and in vitro. Our data also showed that these effects of curcumin were significantly abrogated by shRNA-PPARγ. Taken together, our results indicate that curcumin attenuated OVA-induced airway inflammation and mucus hypersecretion in mice and suppressed OVA- and IL-4-induced upregulation of MCP-1 and MUC5AC both in vivo and in vitro, most likely through a PPARγ-dependent NF-κB signaling pathway.

Background Activin receptor‐like kinase 4 (ALK4) is highly expressed in mammal heart. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is closely related to ventricular pressure overload. Because pressure overload increases atrial pressure and leads to atrial remodeling, it would be informative to know whether ALK4 exerts potential effects on atrial remodeling and AF vulnerability in a pressure‐overload model. Methods and Results Wild‐type littermates and ALK4+/− mice were subjected to abdominal aortic constriction or a sham operation. After 4 or 8 weeks, echocardiographic and hemodynamic measurements were performed, and inducibility of AF was tested. The hearts were divided into atria and ventricles and then were fixed in formalin for staining, or they were weighted and snap‐frozen for quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis. Compared with wild‐type littermates, ALK4+/− mice demonstrated a similar extent of atrial hypertrophy but significantly suppressed atrial fibrosis at 8 weeks post–abdominal aortic constriction. ALK4 haplodeficiency partially blocked abdominal aortic constriction–induced upregulation of monocyte chemotactic protein 1 and interleukin‐6, and the increased chemotaxin of macrophages. ALK4 haplodeficiency also blunted a reduction of connexin 40 and redistribution of connexin 43 from the intercalated disk to the lateral membranes, thereby improving localized conduction abnormalities. Meanwhile, ALK4 haplodeficiency inhibited abdominal aortic constriction–induced decreased INa, ICa‐L and IK1 densities as well as the accompanying action potential duration shortening. Mechanistically, ALK4 haploinsufficiency resulted in the suppression of Smad2/3 activity in this model. Conclusions Our results demonstrate that ALK4 haplodeficiency ameliorates atrial remodeling and vulnerability to AF in a pressure‐overload model through inactivation of the Smad2/3 pathway, suggesting that ALK4 might be a potential therapeutic target in combating pressure overload–induced AF.

Activation of phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) is known to induce cell apoptosis. MicroRNA-374a (miR-374a), which can suppress PTEN expression, has been found abnormally expressed in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Fortunellin is a citrus flavonoid that is a potential anti-inflammation agent in inflammatory diseases. The present study investigated the effects and mechanisms underlying fortunellin-induced inhibition of PTEN in IBD. Colitis was established in rats by the intracolonic administration of 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid to mimic human ulcerative colitis, which is the main type of IBD. miR-374a expression was measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and the regulation of PTEN by miR-374a was evaluated by dual luciferase reporter assay. Western blotting was used to measure the corresponding protein expression. Fortunellin ameliorated colitis symptoms, including excessive inflammation and oxidative stress. Fortunellin decreased epithelial cell apoptosis through inhibiting PTEN expression in colitis. Fortunellin-induced downregulation of PTEN could be counteracted by miR-374a depletion. Moreover, knockdown of miR-374a in vivo partly inhibited the effects of fortunellin on rat colitis. In conclusion, PTEN inhibition contributes to the amelioration effects of fortunellin on colitis. It was confirmed that fortunellin targets miR-374a, which is a negative regulator of PTEN. This study provides novel insights into the pathological mechanisms and treatment alternatives of colitis.

The reduction of pulmonary surfactant (PS) is essential for decreased pulmonary compliance and edema in acute lung injury (ALI). Thyroid transcription factor-1 (TTF-1) plays a major role in the regulation of surfactant protein-A (SP-A), the most abundant protein component of PS. Simultaneously, the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogue can enhance SP-A expression in the lung. However, the underlying mechanism is still unknown. The purpose of this study was to explore whether liraglutide, a GLP-1 analogue, upregulates SP-A expression through the TTF-1 signaling pathway in ALI. In vivo, a murine model of ALI was induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Pulmonary inflammation, edema, insulin level, ultrastructural changes in type II alveolar epithelial (ATII) cells, and SP-A and TTF-1 expression were analyzed. In vitro, rat ATII cells were obtained. SP-A and TTF-1 expression in cells was measured. ShRNA-TTF-1 transfection was performed to knock down TTF-1 expression. Our data showed that LPS-induced lung injury and increase in insulin level, and LPS-induced reduction of SP-A and TTF-1 expression in both the lung and cells, were significantly compromised by liraglutide. Furthermore, we also found that these effects of liraglutide were markedly blunted by shRNA-TTF-1. Taken together, our findings suggest that liraglutide enhances SP-A expression in ATII cells and attenuates pulmonary inflammation in LPS-induced ALI, most likely through the TTF-1 signaling pathway.

The cyclic resistance of ProTaper Universal (size 25/08) and ProTaper Next (size 25/06) instruments was compared in artificial canals with different curvatures in this study. A total of 30 ProTaper Universal and 30 ProTaper Next instruments were divided into 6 groups (n = 10) and were operated into artificial canals with 3 different angles of curvature (45°, 60°, 90°). The canal length was kept consistent in this study. The number of cycles to fracture (NCF) was counted until file fracture occurred, at which point, the length of the fragment was measured. The data were analyzed statistically using ANOVA complemented by the Tukey test (p < 0.05). Cross sections of the fractured files were scanned by an electron microscope. In the fatigue test, the ProTaper Next displayed more resistance in 45° and 60° canals (p < 0.05), whereas ProTaper Universal exhibited a better operability in 90° canals (p < 0.05). The average length of the fragments from ProTaper Next was significantly shorter than that from ProTaper Universal in 90° canals (p < 0.05). The cross sections of the fractured surfaces became flatter when the curvature angles decreased from 90° to 45°. ProTaper Next was more reliable when shaping in curved canals, whereas ProTaper Universal was more sui for the preparation of root canals with severe curvatures.

The formation of biofilm around implants, which is induced by immediate bacterial colonization after installation, is the primary cause of post-operation infection. Initial surface modification is usually required to incorporate antibacterial agents on titanium (Ti) surfaces to inhibit biofilm formation. However, simple and effective priming methods are still lacking for the development of an initial functional layer as a base for subsequent coatings on titanium surfaces. The purpose of our work was to establish a novel initial layer on Ti surfaces using phase-transited lysozyme (PTL), on which multilayer coatings can incorporate silver nanoparticles (AgNP) using chitosan (CS) and hyaluronic acid (HA) via a layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assembly technique.In this study, the surfaces of Ti substrates were primed by dipping into a mixture of lysozyme and tris(2-carboxyethyl)phosphine (TCEP) to obtain PTL-functionalized Ti substrates. The subsequent alternating coatings of HA and chitosan loaded with AgNP onto the precursor layer of PTL were carried out via LbL self-assembly to construct multilayer coatings on Ti substrates.The results of SEM and XPS indicated that the necklace-like PTL and self-assembled multilayer were successfully immobilized on the Ti substrates. The multilayer coatings loaded with AgNP can kill planktonic and adherent bacteria to 100% during the first 4 days. The antibacterial efficacy of the samples against planktonic and adherent bacteria achieved 65%-90% after 14 days. The sustained release of Ag over 14 days can prevent bacterial invasion until mucosa healing. Although the AgNP-containing structure showed some cytotoxicity, the toxicity can be reduced by controlling the Ag release rate and concentration.The PTL priming method provides a promising strategy for fabricating long-term antibacterial multilayer coatings on titanium surfaces via the LbL self-assembly technique, which is effective in preventing implant-associated infections in the early stage.

Purpose. To investigate the prognostic significance of endocan, compared with procalcitonin (PCT), C-reactive protein (CRP),white blood cells (WBC), neutrophils (N), and clinical severity scores in patients with ARDS. Methods. A total of 42 patients with ARDS were initially enrolled, and there were 20 nonsurvivors and 22 survivors based on hospital mortality. Plasma levels of biomarkers were measured and the acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II (APACHE II) was calculated on day 1 after the patient met the defining criteria of ARDS. Results. Endocan levels significantly correlated with the APACHE II score in the ARDS group (r=0.676, P=0.000, n=42). Of 42 individuals with ARDS, 20 were dead, and endocan was significantly higher in nonsurvivors than in survivors (median (IQR) 5.01 (2.98–8.44) versus 3.01 (2.36–4.36) ng/mL, P=0.017). According to the results of the ROC-curve analysis and COX proportional hazards models, endocan can predict mortality of ARDS independently with a hazard ratio of 1.374 (95% CI, 1.150–1.641) and an area of receiver operator characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.715 (P=0.017). Moreover, endocan can predict the multiple-organ dysfunction of ARDS. Conclusion. Endocan is a promising biomarker to predict the disease severity and mortality in patients with ARDS.