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

Abstract Asthma start, development, and exacerbation have all been linked in numerous studies to exposure to a variety of metal elements. However, there is still a dearth of epidemiological data linking heavy metal exposure to death in asthmatics. The investigation included 2432 eligible adults with asthma. The study examined the possible correlation between blood heavy metal levels and all-cause mortality. This was done by utilizing Cox proportional hazards models, restricted cubic spline (RCS), threshold effect models, and CoxBoost models. Subgroup analyses were conducted to investigate the associations between blood metal levels and all-cause mortality among distinct asthmatic populations. An inverse association was found between blood selenium and all-cause mortality in asthmatics, while blood manganese showed a positive association with all-cause mortality. However, there were no significant connections found between blood lead, cadmium, mercury, and all-cause mortality via multivariate Cox proportional hazard models. In model 3, after accounting for all factors, all-cause mortality dropped by 10% for every additional 10 units of blood selenium (μg/L) and increased by 6% for every additional unit of blood manganese (μg/L). The RCS and threshold effect model found a U-shaped correlation between blood selenium, blood manganese, and all-cause mortality. The lowest all-cause mortality among asthmatics was observed when blood selenium and manganese were 188.66 μg/L and 8.47 μg/L, respectively. Our investigation found a U-shaped correlation between blood selenium levels, blood manganese levels, and all-cause mortality in asthmatic populations. Optimizing dietary selenium intake and effectively managing manganese exposure could potentially improve the prognosis of asthma.

Abstract Background The genus Hydrocotyle Tourn. ex L. is a key group for further study on the evolution of Apiales, comprising around 170 species globally. Previous studies mainly focused on separate sections and provided much information about this genus, but its infrageneric relationships are still confusing. In addition, the genetic basis of its adaptive evolution remains poorly understood. To investigate the phylogeny and evolution of the genus, we selected ten representative species covering two of three diversity distribution centers and exhibiting rich morphology diversity. Comparative plastome analysis was conducted to clarify the structural character of Hydrocotyle plastomes. Positive selection analyses were implemented to assess the evolution of the genus. Phylogenetic inferences with protein-coding sequences (CDS) of Hydrocotyle and 17 related species were also performed. Results Plastomes within Hydrocotyle were generally conservative in structure, gene order, and size. A total of 14 regions (rps16-trnK, trnQ-rps16, atpI-atpH, trnC-petN-psbM, ycf3-trnS, accD-psaI-ycf4, petA-psbJ, rps12-rpl20, rpl16 intron, rps3-rpl16 intron, rps9-rpl22, ndhF-rpl32, ndhA intron, and ycf1a) were recognized as hotspot regions within the genus, which suggested to be promising DNA barcodes for global phylogenetic analysis of Hydrocotyle. The ycf15 gene was suggested to be a protein-coding gene for Hydrocotyle species, and it could be used as a DNA barcode to identify Hydrocotyle. In phylogenetic analysis, three monophyletic clades (Clade I, II, III) were identified with evidence of rapid radiation speciation within Clade I. The selective pressure analysis detected that six CDS genes (ycf1b, matK, atpF, accD, rps14, and psbB) of Hydrocotyle species were under positive selection. Within the genus, the last four genes were conservative, suggesting a relation to the unique evolution of the genus in Apiales. Seven genes (atpE, matK, psbH, ycf1a, ycf1b, rpoA, and ycf2) were detected to be under some degree of positive selection in different taxa within the genus Hydrocotyle, indicating their role in the adaptive evolution of species. Conclusions Our study offers new insights into the phylogeny and adaptive evolution of Hydrocotyle. The plastome sequences could significantly enhance phylogenetic resolution and provide genomic resources and potential DNA markers useful for future studies of the genus.

Due to the low bonding strength between diamond and copper, the thermal conductivity and mechanical strength of diamond/copper composites are affected. In order to improve the interface bonding strength, this paper prepared diamond/Cu composites with titanium element in two forms: adding titanium to the copper matrix and using titanium coated diamond particles, respectively. The microstructure and composition analysis of the materials were carried out through SEM, EDS, AFM, etc. The bending strength and thermal conductivity of titanium coated diamond/copper composites reached 230 MPa and 480 W/(m·K), respectively, which were higher than the bending strength and thermal conductivity of diamond/Cu composites with added titanium in the matrix (208 MPa and 127 W/(m·K) and significantly higher than the corresponding properties of pure diamond/Cu composites (69 MPa and 108 W/(m·K)). Pre coating a layer of titanium carbide on the surface of diamond can serve as a connecting bridge, effectively reducing interfacial thermal resistance and improving mechanical properties, which is more effective than adding titanium powder to the matrix to improve the bending strength and thermal conductivity of diamond/Cu composites.

Studying the formation and evolution mechanism of heavy pollution haze events is beneficial to control the regional scale air quality and to formulate the prevention policies of severe haze pollution.Based on the WRF-CMAQ model and actual observation data， a severe haze event which occurred in Chengdu of Sichuan Basin from December 23， 2016 to January 7， 2017 was reproduced.The distribution of temporal and spatial variations of PM2.5 concentration and ventilation coefficient， the physical and chemical processes and the distribution of potential pollution source areas were analyzed to study the formation and evolution mechanism of this severe pollution haze event.Major results were as follows： （1） The environmental conditions of low temperature and low wind speed during the haze event created favorable conditions for the accumulation of pollutants.（2） The northerly airflow in the north of the basin， the southwesterly airflow in the south and the lower ventilation coefficient value （weak turbulent diffusion capability of atmosphere） were the main reasons for the accumulation of pollutants.The PM2.5 concentration in Chengdu reached the peak under the influence of the northeast airflow.The dissipation of pollutants was mainly because of the strengthening of the northerly airflow and the higher ventilation coefficient value （strong turbulent diffusion capability of atmosphere）.（3） The positive contribution of the aerosol process and emission sources in this haze event was strengthened.And the increase in PM2.5 was mainly at night （the negative contribution of the advection process and the weak diffusion process） and the magnitude of the increase was greater relative to the decrease， resulting in an overall gradual increase in PM2.5.（4） PSCF and CWT analysis showed that the airflows with high PM2.5 concentration in Chengdu mainly came from its northeast and southwest directions during this haze event， and the potential pollution source areas were generally distributed in a northeast-southwest band.

The Qinghai-Xizang Plateau Vortex is a mesoscale low-pressure vortex system generated within the boundary layer of the Qinghai-Xizang plateau in summer， which not only has an important influence on the weather patterns and precipitation dynamics across the plateau， but also profoundly impacts the surrounding regions.In this study， the database of the plateau vortex obtained from an objective analysis method， along with ERA5-land reanalysis data， was utilized to conduct a comprehensive statistical and analytical investigation of the vortex's activity from 1950 to 2021.Various analytical methods， including correlation analysis， regression analysis， Bayesian time series analysis algorithm， and probability statistics were used.Furthermore， the intensity and path of the plateau vortex during the years 1950 and 2021 were specifically examined to identify the areas most sensitive to its activity during this time span.Results reveal a noteworthy increasing trend （at a 95% confidence level） in both the annual number and duration of the plateau vortex， with climate tendency rates of 0.16·a-1 and 1.25 h·a-1， respectively.However， the growing trend for the total number and duration of the plateau vortex during the active period （May to August） is not statistically significant.The sensitive areas that affect the activity of the plateau vortex are located on the north side of the northern Qinghai-Xizang Plateau and near the Hoh Xil Mountains， corresponding to the main mountains in the central and western Qinghai-Xizang Plateau.Furthermore， the study investigates the relationship between land surface parameters and the vortex's characteristics， showing positive correlations between latent heat， surface longwave radiation， and surface soil moisture （0~7 cm） with the number and duration of the plateau vortex.Conversely， sensible heat exhibits a negative correlation， it is further found that the plateau vortex is relatively consistent with precipitation when the time scale of the study is inter-annual， while on the daily scale， the sensible heat is positively correlated with the number， duration， and intensity of the plateau vortex mainly in the sensitive areas and to the east of the sensitive areas， with the most significant correlation being in the months of May and June.In conclusion， the results derived from this study provide a solid theoretical foundation for further exploration of the land-atmosphere interaction mechanism in the identified sensitive area.Moreover， these findings lay a critical foundation for enhancing numerical simulations and data assimilation studies of the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau Vortex.

The Source Area of the Yellow River is located in the northeastern part of the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau， and the meteorological stations are sparsely distributed in this basin， the study of the applicability of various precipitation data products has an important values in promoting the hydrological modeling in the basin.Based on the China Meteorological Assimilation Datasets for SWAT model Version1.1 （CMADS V1.1）， the Tropical Rainfall Measurement Mission （TRMM） precipitation datasets （3B42 Version7） and the Soil and Water Assessment Tool （SWAT） driven by these precipitation data， respectively， and the SWAT-CUP （SWAT Calibration and Uncertainty Program） and SUFI-2 （Sequential Uncertainty Fitting2） algorithm 27 sensitivity parameters were rate in simulating the variation of multi-year monthly average runoff， the simulated results were compared with the observations to evaluate the accuracy of CMADS and TRMM 3B42 precipitation data products and the applicability of SWAT model were evaluated in the Source Area of the Yellow River source area.The results show that： （1） The distribution of all three precipitation datasets showed an increasing trend from the west to the east， and TRMM 3B42 was in better agreement with the measured precipitation than CMADS data set in terms of annual and monthly variation.（2） The sensitivity analysis of the parameters showed that the sensitivity degree of SCS （Soil Conservation Service） runoff curve number， groundwater lagging coefficient， and soil evaporation compensation coefficient were stronger than that of the others.（3） The simulated runoff by using the CMADS and TRMM 3B42 precipitation datasets had better results than that by using the measured precipitation data， with the correlation coefficients R2 of 0.93， 0.92 and 0.88 for the rate period at the three hydrological stations， respectively， while the results of the TRMM 3B42 simulation were the next best， with the coefficients of correlation （R） of the rate-period and validation-period of above 0.80， and the Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency coefficient （NSE） of the simulations is above 0.50.This research demonstrates the applicability of CMADS datasets and SWAT model for runoff simulation in high-altitude areas with complex landscape types and sensitive to climate change， and provides a replacement solution for improving the hydrological models in areas where there are sparely meteorological stations.

Abstract Background Coevolution between modern aphids and their primary obligate, bacterial endosymbiont, Buchnera aphidicola, has been previously reported at different classification levels based on molecular phylogenetic analyses. However, the Buchnera genome remains poorly understood within the Rhus gall aphids. Results We assembled the complete genome of the endosymbiont Buchnera in 16 aphid samples, representing 13 species in all six genera of Rhus gall aphids by shotgun genome skimming method. We compared the newly assembled genomes with those from GenBank to comprehensively investigate patterns of coevolution between the bacteria Buchnera and their aphid hosts. Buchnera genomes were mostly collinear, and the pan-genome contained 684 genes, in which the core genome contained 256 genes with some lineages having large numbers of tandem gene duplications. There has been substantial gene-loss in each Buchnera lineage. We also reconstructed the phylogeny for Buchnera and their host aphids, respectively, using 72 complete genomes of Buchnera, along with the complete mitochondrial genomes and three nuclear genes of 31 corresponding host aphid accessions. The cophylogenetic test demonstrated significant coevolution between these two partner groups at individual, species, generic, and tribal levels. Conclusions Buchnera exhibits very high levels of genomic sequence divergence but relative stability in gene order. The relationship between the symbionts Buchnera and its aphid hosts shows a significant coevolutionary pattern and supports complexity of the obligate symbiotic relationship.

Abstract Background Presently, the majority of investigations primarily evaluate the association between lipid profiles and asthma. However, few investigations explore the connection between lipids and mortality related to the disease. This study aims to explore the association of serum lipids with all-cause mortality within asthmatic adults. Methods The investigation included 3233 eligible patients with asthma from the NHANES (2011–2018). The potential associations were explored using three Cox proportional hazards models, restricted cubic splines (RCS), threshold effect models, and CoxBoost models. In addition, subgroup analyses were conducted to investigate these associations within distinct populations. Results After controlling all covariables, the Cox proportional hazards model proved a 17% decrease in the probability of death for each increased unit of low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) (mmol/L). Yet, there was no association seen between blood high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), total cholesterol, or triglyceride and all-cause mortality in asthmatics. The application of RCS and threshold effect models verified an inverse and linear association of LDL-C with all-cause mortality. According to the results from the CoxBoost model, LDL-C exhibited the most substantial impact on the follow-up status of asthmatics among the serum lipids. Conclusion Our investigation concluded that in American asthmatic populations, LDL-C levels were inversely and linearly correlated with mortality. However, no independent relationship was found between triglycerides, total cholesterol, or HDL-C and mortality.

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

A nanocrystalline alloy, with an iron-based composition (Fe58.5Si16.7B6.5Nb5.1Cu13.2) and a Curie temperature of 570 °C, was investigated for its effectiveness as magnetic shielding films in an induction heating system. The primary focus of the research was to evaluate the shielding performance of the 3-turned (9-layered) shielding films with dimensions of 135 mm × 17 mm × 0.15 mm. Upon winding, these films formed a cylindrical structure that enveloped the coil, with a diameter of 13.9 mm and a height of 17 mm. The results showed that increasing the degree of fragmentation within the nanocrystalline shielding films significantly reduced the magnetic permeability by decreasing the real component from 11,500 to 400 and the imaginary part from 2800 to 20. However, a lower degree of fragmentation led to a 10 % increase in the resistance (Rs) of the heating module, although this effect was less pronounced as the relative permeability continued to increase. Furthermore, observations on preheating time to a set temperature of 400 °C and total energy consumption over a duration of 250s revealed an initial downward trend, followed by a rapid increase that even exceeded the initial values as the magnetic permeability of the nanocrystalline shielding films augmented. Notably, the study emphasized that nanocrystalline shielding films with a relative permeability value of 1000 demonstrated exceptional magnetic shielding performance, resulting in a 12.5 % reduction in preheat time and 7 % less energy consumption during preheating. In addition to empirical findings, the study developed a theoretical model elucidating the shielding mechanism inherent in induction heating systems. This model serves as a robust framework for the application of nanocrystalline shielding materials in such systems, laying the groundwork for enhanced magnetic shielding capabilities in future applications.

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted to investigate the efficacy of infliximab, abatacept, and cenicriviroc in treating patients hospitalized with COVID-19. The patient's clinical status was assessed daily on an 8-point ordinal scale. We evaluated the totality of evidence on the efficacy of the 3 immunomodulators by considering all possible changes in the clinical status of each patient over time. We demonstrated that infliximab accelerated improvement and reduced deterioration of clinical status when added to standard of care. There was also evidence for the benefit of abatacept. There was no evidence for the benefit of cenicriviroc.

The Tibetan Plateau (TP) has been the focus of numerous studies examining the energy and water cycle variations, but there is still a lack of long-term, quantitative precise assessments of evapotranspiration. This research first provided two sets of long-term comprehensive observational datasets, and an advanced monitoring technique to measure soil moisture, which can improve the estimation accuracy of evapotranspiration. Subsequently, using microwave data, the Surface Energy Balance System model and Machine Learning methods, it calculated a complete set of long-term evapotranspiration data. At the same time, based on reasonable assumptions, it also estimated the total evaporation from plateau lakes. These findings contribute significantly to the understanding of the relationship between the Asian monsoon, the TP’s physical characteristics, and its atmosphere, thereby improving predictions of water resource variability in the TP. The study’s innovative methodologies and synthesis of diverse data sources provide critical information for informed and sustainable water management strategies in the region.

Abstract Background Presently, the majority of investigations primarily evaluate the correlation between triglyceride-glucose index (TyGI) with lung diseases, such as asthma. However, they did not delve into the correlation between TyGI and inflammatory responses related to the disease. Few studies have explored the association between TyGI and blood eosinophil count (BEOC). Thus, National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data were used in this study to evaluate the correlation between TyGI and BEOC in individuals with asthma. Methods This study investigated 3902 individuals with asthma. Linear regression analysis was performed to investigate the association between TyGI and BEOC in patients with asthma. Subsequently, the GAM and threshold effect models were used to validate the presence of either a nonlinear or linear association between TyGI and BEOC. Finally, stratified analyses were conducted to ascertain the correlations between different subgroups. Results Four linear regression models confirmed a positive linear correlation between TyGI and BEOC in patients with asthma. In Model D, which controlled for all covariates, BEOC increased by 12.44 cells/uL for every extra unit of TyGI. The GAM and threshold effect models further verified the positive linear correlation between TyGI and BEOC. The XGBoost model indicated that the six most significant variables influencing BEOC, in order of relative importance, were age, cholesterol level, body mass index (BMI), poverty-to-income ratio (PIR), BNEUC, and TyGI. Conclusions In patients with asthma, the study discovered a linear positive correlation between TyGI and BEOC. This indicates a potential connection between TyGI and alterations in the immune status of individuals with asthma, which may help detect abnormalities in a timely manner and provide a reference for clinical decision-making. This study offers fresh insights for the future exploration of the management and treatment of asthma.

AbstractAlismataceae is one of the early diverged families of monocotyledonous plants. We report the complete chloroplast genomes of three Alisma species, including Alisma orientale (Sam.) Juzep. 1934, A. subcordatum Raf. 1908, and A. triviale Pursh 1813, of which A. orientale is a traditional Chinese medical plant used widely to treat diuretics, diabetes, hepatitis, and inflammation. We sequenced the complete chloroplast genomes with the Illumina Nova-Seq 6000 platform using herbarium collections. The chloroplast genomes of A. orientale, A. subcordatum and A. triviale are 159,861 bp, 160,180 bp, and 159,727 bp in length, respectively. The three chloroplast genomes each contain 113 genes, including four rRNAs, 30 tRNAs genes, and 79 protein-coding genes, and the average GC content is 36.0%. Based on the whole chloroplast genomes of 19 species of Alismataceae and the close allies, the medicinally important A. orientale was found to be closely related to another medicinal plant Alisma plantago-aquatica L. 1753 in the phylogenetic analysis. The genus Alisma was supported to be monophyletic.

Abstract Background The suamc genus Rhus (sensu stricto) includes two subgenera, Lobadium (ca. 25 spp.) and Rhus (ca. 10 spp.). Their members, R. glabra and R. typhina (Rosanae: Sapindales: Anacardiaceae), are two economic important species. Chloroplast genome information is of great significance for the study of plant phylogeny and taxonomy. Results The three complete chloroplast genomes from two Rhus glabra and one R. typhina accessions were obtained with a total of each about 159k bp in length including a large single-copy region (LSC, about 88k bp), a small single-copy regions (SSC, about 19k bp) and a pair of inverted repeats regions (IRa/IRb, about 26k bp), to form a canonical quadripartite structure. Each genome contained 88 protein-coding genes, 37 transfer RNA genes, eight ribosomal RNA genes and two pseudogenes. The overall GC content of the three genomes all were same (37.8%), and RSCU values showed that they all had the same codon prefers, i.e., to use codon ended with A/U (93%) except termination codon. Three variable hotspots, i.e., ycf4-cemA, ndhF-rpl32-trnL and ccsA-ndhD, and a total of 152–156 simple sequence repeats (SSR) were identified. The nonsynonymous (Ka)/synonymous (Ks) ratio was calculated, and cemA and ycf2 genes are important indicators of gene evolution. The phylogenetic analyses of the family Anacardiaceae showed that the eight genera were grouped into three clusters, and supported the monophyly of the subfamilies and all the genera. The accessions of five Rhus species formed four clusters, while, one individual of R. typhina grouped with the R. glabra accessions instead of clustering into the two other individuals of R. typhina in the subgenus Rhus, which showed a paraphyletic relationship. Conclusions Comparing the complete chloroplast genomes of the Rhus species, it was found that most SSRs were A/T rich and located in the intergenic spacer, and the nucleotide divergence exhibited higher levels in the non-coding region than in the coding region. The Ka/Ks ratio of cemA gene was > 1 for species collected in America, while it was

Abstract Background Ampelopsideae J. Wen & Z.L. Nie is a small-sized tribe of Vitaceae Juss., including ca. 47 species from four genera showing a disjunct distribution worldwide across all the continents except Antarctica. There are numerous species from the tribe that are commonly used as medicinal plants with immune-modulating, antimicrobial, and anti-hypertensive properties. The tribe is usually recognized into three clades, i.e., Ampelopsis Michx., Nekemias Raf., and the Southern Hemisphere clade. However, the relationships of the three clades differ greatly between the nuclear and the plastid topologies. There has been limited exploration of the chloroplast phylogenetic relationships within Ampelopsideae, and studies on the chloroplast genome structure of this tribe are only available for a few individuals. In this study, we aimed to investigate the evolutionary characteristics of plastid genomes of the tribe, including their genome structure and evolutionary insights. Results We sequenced, assembled, and annotated plastid genomes of 36 species from the tribe and related taxa in the family. Three main clades were recognized within Ampelopsideae, corresponding to Ampelopsis, Nekemias, and the Southern Hemisphere lineage, respectively, and all with 100% bootstrap supports. The genome sequences and content of the tribe are highly conserved. However, comparative analyses suggested that the plastomes of Nekemias demonstrate a contraction in the large single copy region and an expansion in the inverted repeat region, and possess a high number of forward and palindromic repeat sequences distinct from both Ampelopsis and the Southern Hemisphere taxa. Conclusions Our results highlighted plastome variations in genome length, expansion or contraction of the inverted repeat region, codon usage bias, and repeat sequences, are corresponding to the three lineages of the tribe, which probably faced with different environmental selection pressures and evolutionary history. This study provides valuable insights into understanding the evolutionary patterns of plastid genomes within the Ampelopsideae of Vitaceae.

Introduction: Chinese bereaved parents over the age of 49 who have lost their only child are known as shidu parents. This study aimed to explore their symptoms of prolonged grief disorder (PGD) and post-traumatic growth (PTG).Methods: Shidu parents who experienced the loss of their only child at least six months prior and had no biological or adopted children at the time of the study were recruited. Eleven shidu parents participated in individual interviews conducted in Mandarin via WeChat video or voice calls. The interview guide was developed by the first researcher and refined through discussions with doctoral students and a professor specializing in bereavement. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse the data from the semi-structured interviews.Results: The interviewees (3 men and 8 women) were aged between 53 and 72 years, and the time since their child’s loss ranged from 2.25 to 24 years. Four themes of PGD symptoms were identified: Separation distress, Cognitive, emotional, and behavioural symptoms, Somatic responses and Changes in grief responses. Subtheme of ‘feelings of inferiority or shame’ and ‘somatic responses’ were prominent among this group, potentially representing culturally relevant grief reactions. They also experienced genuine PTG that helped them adapt to life without the child: changes in self-perception, changes in interpersonal relationships, and a changed philosophy of life. The subtheme of ‘living for self’ emerged as a potentially unique PTG among shidu parents.Conclusion: Shidu parents share some important similarities with bereaved individuals across cultures, but also exhibit some unique characteristics. Considering their persistent intense grief, regular screening for grief severity, physical issues, and suicidal ideation is essential. Culturally sensitive interventions that acknowledge and validate their sense of inferiority or shame may be beneficial. Additionally, fostering PTG may support shidu parents in coping with their loss and adapting to life.

Background Body mass index (BMI) is associated with diabetic nephropathy (DN). However, the mediator factors in the BMI-DN effects remain unclear.Methods Univariate and multivariate Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis were performed to estimate the association between six lifestyles (moderate to vigorous physical activity levels, years of schooling, BMI, nap during day, number of treatments/medications taken and coffee intake) and DN. MR Egger, Weighted median, Simple mode, and Weighted mode was supplemental methods to Inverse variance weighted. Sensitivity analysis included heterogeneity test, horizontal pleiotropy test, and Leave-One-Out. Additionally, mediation MR was conducted to evaluate the mediating role of lifestyles between BMI and DN. Finally, functional enrichment analysis based on the mediation MR results was performed.Results univariate and multivariate Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis were performed to estimate the association between six lifestyles (moderate to vigorous physical activity levels, years of schooling, BMI, nap during day, number of treatments/medications taken and coffee intake) and DN. MR Egger, Weighted median, Simple mode, and Weighted mode was supplemental methods to Inverse variance weighted. Sensitivity analysis included heterogeneity test, horizontal pleiotropy test, and Leave-One-Out. Additionally, mediation MR was conducted to evaluate the mediating role of lifestyles between BMI and DN. Finally, functional enrichment analysis based on the mediation MR results was performed.Conclusion our results supported mediation role of vigorous physical activity level and number of treatments/medications in BMI-DN effects.

Introduction: Cultural factors were shown to be particularly relevant for the development and expression of posttraumatic stress. Recently, the concept of cultural scripts of trauma has been introduced, which proposes that trauma sequelae elements may be sequentially linked and specifically associated with cultural factors. Furthermore, a cascade model is proposed, including trauma exposure, demographic characteristics, cultural affiliation, and trauma-related value orientations as influencing factors of posttraumatic development. The purpose of this Network Project is to investigate cultural psychological factors that contribute to the expression of posttraumatic stress.Methods: The present Network Project implements a mixed methods approach and will be conducted in 5 different study sites, including Switzerland, Israel, Georgia, China, and East Africa. In sub-study I, the cultural scripts of traumatic stress inventories (CSTIs) will be developed. These scales provide a pool of trauma sequelae elements for each cultural group. For this purpose, focus groups with trauma survivors and trauma experts will be conducted and analysed using qualitative research methods. Sub-study II implements a validation analysis of the CSTIs and the empirical investigation of a cultural cascade model. This quantitative approach will include a larger sample of individuals who experienced traumatic life events.Discussion: This contribution is timely and enriches the knowledge of trauma and culture. Future publications of this Network Project will address trauma sequelae from a cultural perspective and provide diagnostic and psychotherapeutic implications.

Alisma L. is a medicinally important genus of aquatic and wetland plants consisting of c. 10 recognized species. However, largely due to polyploidy and limited taxon and gene sampling, the phylogenomic relationships of Alisma remain challenging. In this study, we sequenced 34 accessions of Alismataceae, including eight of the ten species of Alisma, one species of Echinodorus and one species of Luronium, to perform comparative analyses of plastid genomes and phylogenetic analyses. Comparative analysis of plastid genomes revealed high sequence similarity among species within the genus. Our study analyzed structural changes and variations in the plastomes of Alisma, including IR expansion or contraction, and gene duplication or loss. Phylogenetic results suggest that Alisma is monophyletic, and constitutes four groups: (1) A. lanceolatum and A. canaliculatum; (2) the North American clade of A. subcordatum and A. triviale; (3) A. wahlenbergii and A. gramineum; and (4) A. plantago-aquatica from Eurasia and northern Africa with the eastern Asian A. orientale nested within it. Hence the results challenge the recognition of A. orientale as a distinct species and raise the possibility of treating it as a synonym of the widespread A. plantago-aquatica. The well-known Alismatis Rhizoma (Zexie) in Chinese medicine was likely derived from the morphologically variable Alisma plantago-aquatica throughout its long history of cultivation in Asia. The plastome phylogenetic results also support the tetraploid A. lanceolatum as the likely maternal parent of the hexaploid eastern Asian A. canaliculatum.

Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) represent the most prevalent form of genomic polymorphism and are extensively used in population genetics research. Using dd-RAD sequencing, a high-throughput sequencing method, we investigated the genome-level diversity, population structure, and phylogenetic relationships among three morphological forms of the widely distributed taxon Cryptotaenia japonica Hassk., which is native to East Asia. Our study aimed to assess the species status of C. japonica according to its genetic structure and genetic diversity patterns among 66 naturally distributed populations, comprising 26 C. japonica f. japonica, 36 C. japonica f. dissecta (Y. Yabe) Hara and 4 C. japonica f. pinnatisecta S. L. Liou accessions. Based on genomic SNP data generated by dd-RAD sequencing, we conducted genetic diversity, principal component, neighbor-joining (NJ) phylogenetic, admixture clustering, and population differentiation analyses. The findings revealed the following: (1) 5,39,946 unlinked, high-quality SNPs, with mean π, HO,HE and FIS values of 0.062, 0.066, 0.043 and −0.014, respectively, were generated; (2) population divergence was unaffected by isolation through distance; (3) six main distinct regions corresponding to geographic locations and exhibiting various levels of genetic diversity were identified; (4) pairwise FST analysis showed significant (P < 0.05) population differentiation in 0%–14% of populations among the six regions after sequential Bonferroni correction; and (5) three migration events (historical gene flow) indicated east‒west directionality. Moreover, contemporary gene flow analysis using Jost’s D, Nei’s GST, and Nm values highlighted the middle latitude area of East Asia as a significant contributor to genetic structuring in C. japonica. Overall, our study elucidates the relatively low genetic differentiation and population structure of C. japonica across East Asia, further enhancing our understanding of plant lineage diversification in the Sino-Japanese Floristic Region.

Disturbed flow is one of the pathological initiators of endothelial dysfunction in intimal hyperplasia (IH) which is commonly seen in vascular bypass grafts, and arteriovenous fistulas. Various in vitro disease models have been designed to simulate the hemodynamic conditions found in the vasculature. Nonetheless, prior investigations have encountered challenges in establishing a robust disturbed flow model, primarily attributed to the complex bifurcated geometries and distinctive flow dynamics. In the present study, we aim to address this gap by introducing an in vitro bypass flow model capable of inducing disturbed flow and other hemodynamics patterns through a pulsatile flow in the same model. To assess the model's validity, we employed computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to simulate hemodynamics and compared the morphology and functions of human umbilical venous endothelial cells (HUVECs) under disturbed flow conditions to those in physiological flow or stagnant conditions. CFD analysis revealed the generation of disturbed flow within the model, pinpointing the specific location in the channel where the effects of disturbed flow were observed.High-content screening, a single-cell morphological profile assessment, demonstrated that HUVECs in the disturbed flow area exhibited random orientation, and morphological features were significantly distinct compared to cells in the physiological flow or stagnant condition after a two days of flow exposure. Furthermore, HUVECs exposed to disturbed flow underwent extensive remodeling of the adherens junctions and expressed higher levels of endothelial cell activation markers compared to other hemodynamic conditions.In conclusion, our in vitro bypass flow model provides a robust platform for investigating the associations between disturbed flow pattern and vascular diseases.

BackgroundThough the prevalence of diabetes is set to increase, most serious game solutions typically target patient self-management and education. Few games target health care professions education, and even fewer consider the factors that may increase their efficacies. The impact of facilitation, a prominent feature of health professions education, is examined in the context of a rehearsal-based diabetes management serious game. ObjectiveIn this mixed methods, open-label, superiority randomized controlled trial, we compare student performance, attitudes, and perceptions of a rehearsal-based diabetes management game for health care professionals. MethodsStudent participants were randomized into 2 groups to play a diabetes management game. The control group played the game alone, and the intervention group played the same game alongside a facilitator tasked to moderate overall challenge levels and address queries. Both groups were administered the Flow Short Scale, a 13-item measure rated on a 7-point Likert scale ranging from 1 (“not at all”) to 7 (“very much”) immediately after the game. Students were then invited to voluntary focus group discussions to elicit their attitudes and perceptions of the game. Findings were subject to between-group comparisons and inductive thematic analysis respectively. ResultsA total of 48 (26 control, 22 intervention) clinical-year undergraduates from the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine in Singapore participated in this study, with 18 continuing to the focus group discussions. Flow Short Scale results indicated the superiority of the intervention group for overall flow (t46=–2.17, P=.04) and the absorption subdomain (t46=–2.6, P=.01). Qualitative results indicated students viewed facilitation as helpful and appropriate, and were able to identify improvable elements of the game’s theoretical foundations and overall design. ConclusionsWhile serious games are efficacious means of rehearsing previously learned knowledge, facilitation allows for their efficiency to be greatly increased. Such increases are likely crucial in the coming years with the increased digitization of health care professions education and the prevalence of diabetes. Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT05637749; https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05637749

BackgroundCurrently, there is limited research on the correlation between protein levels in the body and asthma. We used data from the NHANES to explore the relationship of dietary protein, serum albumin, with mortality in individuals with asthma to better understand their impact on asthma.MethodThis investigation involved 3005 individuals with asthma from the NHANES dataset. Studying potential links between dietary protein, serum albumin, and mortality in asthmatic populations utilized the Cox proportional hazards models, trend test, restricted cubic splines (RCS), and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Furthermore, subgroup analyses were carried out to explore these connections within specific populations.ResultAfter considering all potential variables, multivariate Cox proportional hazard models proved that dietary protein intake did not have an independent connection with all-cause mortality, but serum albumin was inversely linked with all-cause mortality. Each unit rise in serum albumin (g/l) was linked to a 13% decrease in the likelihood of all-cause mortality. RCS confirmed a negative and linear connection of serum albumin with all-cause mortality. The Kaplan-Meier survival curve suggested that asthmatic adults with greater serum albumin levels had a decreased risk of mortality compared to those with lower levels.ConclusionThe investigation proved a negative linear connection of serum albumin with all-cause mortality in asthma patients. However, there was no independent link discovered between dietary protein intake with mortality. This indicates that serum albumin could be a significant factor in predicting long-term outcomes for asthma patients.

To promote the understanding of precipitation microphysical characteristics and differences in the central and eastern Qinghai-Xizang （Tibetan） Plateau and the Sichuan Basin， disdrometer measurements collected at Naqu， Yushu， Linzhi， Batang， Luding， and Chengdu from July to August 2019 and 2020 are utilized to comprehensively investigate the characteristics and differences of raindrop size distributions （RSDs） among the six different areas.Meanwhile， local empirical relations between the Gamma shape parameter and slope parameter and between the reflectivity factor and rain rate are proposed and compared.The results show that RSDs in the basin and adjacent areas （Chengdu and Luding） are generally wider and have higher number concentrations of medium-to-large raindrops （diameter ≥1.0 mm） than those in the plateau areas （Naqu， Yushu， Linzhi， and Batang） due to the contribution of more strong convective precipitation.In contrast， RSDs in the plateau areas are narrower and possess higher number concentrations of small raindrops （diameter

AbstractNekemias is a perennial woody vine with nine species that had been originally placed in Ampelopsis. These species of Nekemias are economically and medically important. Limited information is available on the genomic characteristics of the chloroplasts of this genus. Nekemias hypoglauca (Hance) J. Wen & Z. L. Nie 2014 contains 131 unique genes (86 protein-coding genes, 8 rRNAs, and 37 tRNAs). The complete chloroplast sequence contains 162,976 bp. The large single-copy region contains 89,291 bp; the small single-copy region contains 19,063 bp, and a pair of inverted repeat sequences is composed of 27,311 bp. There are 84 simple sequence repeat (SSR) loci in the complete chloroplast genome of N. hypoglauca, with mononucleotide, dinucleotide, trinucleotide, tetranucleotide and hexanucleotide SSRs of 58, 9, 6, 10 and 1, respectively. A total of 337 repeats were identified, including 172 forward repeats, three reverse repeats and 163 palindromic repeats. A phylogenetic analysis based on the complete genome data of the chloroplasts of 10 plant species indicated the monophyly of Nekemias and determined the phylogenetic relationships of N. hypoglauca in Nekemias. This study provides a reference for further studies on the taxonomy, identification, origin and evolution of N. hypoglauca and Nekemias.

Soil moisture is a critical variable in climate forecasting, hydrology, and others. Satellite-based remote sensing techniques have been used to map soil moisture globally, including visual bands, infrared, Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), passive microwave remote sensing, etc. Passive microwave remote sensing techniques, especially at the L-band, such as the Soil Moisture and Ocean Salinity (SMOS) and Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP), have higher accuracy than the others due to their higher sensitivity to the dielectric constant of the soil profile. However, the unclear sensing depth at L-band for SMOS and SMAP leads to a mismatch in the calibration/validation and application of their soil moisture products. In this study, we apply soil temperature sensing depth model, i.e., the tau-z model, to the soil temperature, soil moisture, and brightness temperature (TB) data collected during the Soil Moisture Experiment in the Luan River (SMELR). The effectiveness of the tau-z model in interpreting the L-band microwave observations is validated through forward simulations with the Community Microwave Emission Modelling (CMEM). Results showed that: 1) the bias in TB simulation can be reduced from 26.22 K/12.00 K to -11.66 K/-8.839 K for H/V-polarization; 2) the RMSE is reduced from 30.2 K/20.48 K to 12.92 K/11.66 K for H/V-polarization by considering the microwave sensing depth. Daily TB signal variation partly attributed to the soil temperature sensing depth due to different bands' penetration capacity. The result is expected to improve the understanding of microwave data collected by muli-frequency synthetic platforms such as Copernicus Microwave Imaging Radiometer (CIMR).

The Qinghai-Xizang （Tibetan） Plateau is known as the Asian water tower.The change of its water resources has an important impact on the weather and climate in the lower reaches.Precipitation is a key role in the water cycle.Therefore， it is of great significance to accurately simulate plateau precipitation for water resources security in China.In recent years， some studies have found that the convection-permitting model （the cumulus parameterization scheme could be turned off when grid scale is less than 4 km） could improve the precipitation simulation over the Qinghai-Xizang （Tibetan） Plateau.However， the previous studies only selected 1~3 cumulus parameterization schemes for comparison.It is still unknown whether convection-permitting model is superior to any cumulus parameterization scheme.In this paper， the ability of nine cumulus parameterization schemes in WRF and convection-permitting model （CPM） in simulating the precipitation over the Qinghai-Xizang （Tibetan） Plateau in the summer of 2009 was evaluated.The results showed that the simulations overestimate the summer precipitation over Qinghai-Xizang （Tibetan） Plateau in 2009， and the error was about 0.4~2 mm·d-1.The over simulation of CAPE and latent heat flux in Qinghai-Xizang （Tibetan） Plateau may be one of the reasons for the overestimations.Among all simulations， the G3 cumulus parameterization scheme has the best simulation of the mean precipitation the mean precipitation and the dinural cycles precipitation and it can can better capture the precipitation intensity， spatial distribution， precipitation area and diurnal cycles of the mean precipitation.CPM showed overall the second best precipitation simulation following G3 cumulus parameterization scheme， which can not effectively improve the simulation of diurnal cycles of precipitation， but can improve the simulation of precipitation frequency.In different plateau ecological regions， all simulations cannot reasonably simulate the precipitation in the desert area and the southern foot of the Himalaya， but compared with the cumulus parameterization schemes， CPM can greatly reduce the error in the desert area.In other regions， CPM and Tiedtke cumulus parameterization scheme performed well.Considering the mean precipitation and precipitation frequency， the CPM， Tiedtke and G3 cumulus parameterization scheme have the minimum simulation error for precipitation in different regions and intensity.Therefore， we recommend to adopt G3 or Tiedtke cumulus parameterization schemes in simulating summer precipitation over the Qinghai-Xizang （Tibetan） Plateau， and when the computational resources are allowed， the high-resolution CPM can be considered to improve the precipitation frequency simulations.

The climate of Southwest China is wet all year round， but the frequent drought disasters in recent years have caused huge economic losses such as crop yield reduction and forest fire.In order to fully understand the anomalies of water vapor transport in drought years in Southwest China and provide reference for early warning of drought disasters in this area in the future， this study used TRMM and APHRODITE precipitation data to analyze the interannual variation of precipitation and the interannual variation of precipitation in various seasons in Southwest China from 1998 to 2019， selected the summer dry year （2011）， autumn dry year （2009） and 2008， which were relatively wet in summer and autumn.Using Lagrangian transport model FLEXPART， we tracked the paths of water vapor transport and water vapor sources in the two extreme dry seasons （the autumn of 2009 and the summer of 2011）， and compared with the summer and autumn of the wet year （2008）， respectively.The results showed that： （1） The paths of water vapor transport in dry and wet year are consistent， and the paths in southwest China in summer can be divided into three main paths： the southwest path， the southeast path and the northwest path， among which the most dominant is the southwest path， so the main water vapor source area are the Arabian Sea——the Bay of Bengal.In autumn， the main paths can be divided into two： the southeast path and the northwest path， of which the most important is the southeast path， so the main source of water vapor is South China Sea——the Pacific Northwest.（2） There are differences in the strength of water vapor transport between dry and wet years.The reason for the drought in Southwest China in summer is that the water vapor transported by the southwest route is weak， while the reason for the drought in Southwest China in autumn is that the water vapor transported by southeast route is weak.

The application and funding of the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) in the area of information and communication system and in the year of 2023 were statistically analyzed, which included general programs, young scientists funds, funds for developing regions, key program, excellent and outstanding young scholar funds.The research teams, research trends in information and communication system during the Fourteenth Five-Year Plan were introduced.Since general programs and young scientists funds receive the highest volume of applications, detailed statistics were further provided among different institutions and application codes.Then the statistics of application and funding results with different attributes of scientific problems were presented.Finally, the result of responsibility-credit-contribution (RCC) evaluation mechanism on the reviewing process was provided.

BackgroundPresently, numerous studies have indicated that protein consumption and levels of blood albumin serve as important biomarkers for a range of respiratory illnesses. However, there have been few investigations into the correlation between protein consumption, serum albumin, and asthma.MethodsOur analysis incorporated 2509 asthmatics from the 2011–2018 NHANES dataset. The investigation employed three linear regression models and XGBoost model to investigate the potential link between protein intake, serum albumin levels, and blood eosinophil counts (BEOC) in patients with asthma. The trend test, generalized additive model (GAM), and threshold effect model were utilized to validate this correlation. As well, we undertook stratified analyses to look at the correlation of serum albumin with BEOC among distinct populations.ResultsIn the univariable regression model, which did not account for any covariates, we observed a positive correlation between protein intake and BEOC. However, univariable and multivariable regression analyses all suggested a negative connection of serum albumin with BEOC in asthma populations. In Model C, which took into account all possible factors, BEOC dropped by 2.82 cells/uL for every unit increase in serum albumin (g/L). Additionally, the GAM and threshold effect model validated that serum albumin and BEOC showed an inverted U-shaped correlation.ConclusionOur investigation discovered there was no independent link between asthmatics’ protein intake and BEOC. However, we observed an inverted U-shaped relationship between serum albumin levels and BEOC, suggesting a possible relationship between the overall nutritional status of asthmatics and immune system changes. Our findings provide new directions for future research in the field of asthma management and therapy.

BackgroundIncreasing evidence emphasizes the potential relationship between diabetes and OAB (overactive bladder). However, large population epidemiology is still lacking.MethodsThis cross-sectional study included six cycle NHANES surveys, with a total of 23863 participants. Logistic regression models were constructed to analyze the association between diabetes mellitus, diabetes-related markers, and inflammatory biomarkers with OAB. Restricted cubic splines were used to analyze the non-linear associations. Mediating analysis was performed to test the effect of inflammatory biomarkers on the relationship between diabetes-related markers and OAB. Finally, machine learning models were applied to predict the relative importance and construct the best-fit model.ResultsDiabetes mellitus participants’ OAB prevalence increased by 77% compared with non-diabetes. As the quartiles of diabetes-related markers increased, the odds of OAB monotonically increased in three models (all p for trend < 0.001). Glycohemoglobin exhibited a linear association with OAB (p for nonlinearity > 0.05). White blood cells significantly mediated the associations between diabetes-related markers (glycohemoglobin, fasting glucose, and insulin) with OAB, and the proportions were 7.23%, 8.08%, and 17.74%, respectively (all p < 0.0001). Neutrophils partly mediated the correlation between (glycohemoglobin, fasting glucose, and insulin) and OAB at 6.58%, 9.64%, and 17.93%, respectively (all p < 0.0001). Machine learning of the XGBoost model constructs the best fit model, and XGBoost predicts glycohemoglobin is the most important indicator on OAB.ConclusionOur research revealed diabetes mellitus and diabetes-related markers were remarkably associated with OAB, and systemic inflammation was an important mediator of this association.

The genus Argentina Hill belongs to the tribe Potentilleae Sweet and contains approximately 75 species predominantly distributed in the Sino-Himalayan region and the Malesian archipelago. So far we have less knowledge on the phylogenetic relationships within Argentina owing to limited sampling of Argentina taxa or gene fragments in previous studies. Moreover, to date there is no phylogenetic study on Argentina from the perspective of comparative chloroplast (cp) genomics. Here we performed comparative genomic analyses on the cp genomes of 39 accessions representing 18 taxa of Argentina. The Argentina cp genomes presented the typical quadripartite structure, with the sizes ranging from 155 096 bp to 157 166 bp. The 39 Argentina cp genomes contained a set of 112 unique genes, comprising four ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, 30 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, as well as 78 protein-coding genes (PCGs). The cp genome organization, gene content and order in Argentina were highly conserved, but some visible divergences were present in IR/SC boundary regions. Ten regions (trnH-GUG-psbA, trnG-GCC-trnfM-CAU, trnD-GUC-trnY-GUA, rpl32-trnL-UAG, atpH-atpI, rps16-trnQ-UUG, trnS-GCU-trnG-UCC, ndhF-rpl32, trnR-UCU-atpA, and accD-psaI) were identified as excellent candidate DNA markers for future studies on species identification, population genetics and phylogeny of Argentina. Our results indicated that Argentina is monophyletic. In the current sampling, the A. smithiana - A. anserina clade was sister to the remainder of Argentina. Our results corroborated the previous taxonomic treatments to transfer A. phanerophlebia and A. micropetala from the genus Sibbaldia L. to Argentina. Our results showed close relationships among A. stenophylla, A. microphylla, A. taliensis, and A. tatsienluensis, congruent with previous studies based on the morphology of these species. Twenty-six genes (rps3, rps15, rps16, rps19, rpl16, rpl20, rpl22, rpoA, rpoB, rpoC1, rpoC2, atpA, atpF, psbB, psbF, ndhA, ndhB, ndhC, ndhD, ndhF, rbcL, accD, ccsA, matK, ycf1, ycf2) were with sites under positive selection, and adaptive evolution of these genes might have played crucial roles in Argentina species adaptation to the harsh mountain environment. This study will facilitate future work on taxonomy, phylogenetics, and adaptive evolution of Argentina.

IntroductionThis study aimed to assess the correlation between the blood urea nitrogen (BUN)-to-creatinine (BUN/Cr) ratio and adverse outcomes (AOs) at 3 months in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in the Korean population.MethodsThis cohort study encompassed 1906 cases of AIS at a South Korean hospital from January 2010 to December 2016. To determine the linear correlation between the BUN/Cr ratio and AOs in AIS, a binary logistic regression model (BLRM) was employed. Additionally, generalized additive models and techniques for smooth curve fitting were utilized to reveal the nonlinear dynamics between the BUN/Cr ratio and AOs in patients with AIS.ResultsThe prevalence of AOs was 28.65%, with a median BUN/Cr ratio of 18.96. Following adjustments for covariates, the BLRM disclosed that the association between the BUN/Cr ratio and the risk of AOs in patients with AIS did not attain statistical significance. Nevertheless, a nonlinear relationship surfaced, pinpointing an inflection point at 21.591. To the left of this inflection point, a 31.42% reduction in the risk of AOs was noted for every 1-unit surge in the Z score of the BUN/Cr ratio [odds ratio (OR) = 0.686, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.519, 0.906, p = 0.008]. On the right side of the inflection point, the effect size (OR = 1.405, 95% CI: 1.018, 1.902, p = 0.039) was determined.ConclusionThe findings of this study underscore the intricate nature of the relationship between the BUN/Cr ratio and 3-month outcomes in patients with AIS, establishing a robust groundwork for future investigations.

The 3D culture of intestinal organoids entails embedding isolated intestinal crypts and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells within a growth factor-enriched matrix gel. This process leads to the formation of hollow microspheres with structures resembling intestinal epithelial cells, which are referred to as intestinal organoids. These structures encompass various functional epithelial cell types found in the small intestine and closely mimic the organizational patterns of the small intestine, earning them the name “mini-intestines”. Intestinal tumors are prevalent within the digestive system and represent a significant menace to human health. Through the application of 3D culture technology, miniature colorectal organs can be cultivated to retain the genetic characteristics of the primary tumor. This innovation offers novel prospects for individualized treatments among patients with intestinal tumors. Presently established libraries of patient-derived organoids serve as potent tools for conducting comprehensive investigations into tissue functionality, developmental processes, tumorigenesis, and the pathobiology of cancer. This review explores the origins of intestinal organoids, their culturing environments, and their advancements in the realm of precision medicine. It also addresses the current challenges and outlines future prospects for development.

BackgroundResistance to anti-tuberculous drugs is a major challenge in the treatment of tuberculosis (TB). We aimed to evaluate the clinical availability of nanopore-based targeted next-generation sequencing (NanoTNGS) for the diagnosis of drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB).MethodsThis study enrolled 253 patients with suspected DR-TB from six hospitals. The diagnostic efficacy of NanoTNGS for detecting Mycobacterium tuberculosis and its susceptibility or resistance to first- and second-line anti-tuberculosis drugs was assessed by comparing conventional phenotypic drug susceptibility testing (pDST) and Xpert MTB/RIF assays. NanoTNGS can be performed within 12 hours from DNA extraction to the result delivery.ResultsNanoTNGS showed a remarkable concordance rate of 99.44% (179/180) with the culture assay for identifying the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex. The sensitivity of NanoTNGS for detecting drug resistance was 93.53% for rifampicin, 89.72% for isoniazid, 85.45% for ethambutol, 74.00% for streptomycin, and 88.89% for fluoroquinolones. Specificities ranged from 83.33% to 100% for all drugs tested. Sensitivity for rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis using NanoTNGS increased by 9.73% compared to Xpert MTB/RIF. The most common mutations were S531L (codon in E. coli) in the rpoB gene, S315T in the katG gene, and M306V in the embB gene, conferring resistance to rifampicin, isoniazid, and ethambutol, respectively. In addition, mutations in the pncA gene, potentially contributing to pyrazinamide resistance, were detected in 32 patients. Other prevalent variants, including D94G in the gyrA gene and K43R in the rpsL gene, conferred resistance to fluoroquinolones and streptomycin, respectively. Furthermore, the rv0678 R94Q mutation was detected in one sample, indicating potential resistance to bedaquiline.ConclusionNanoTNGS rapidly and accurately identifies resistance or susceptibility to anti-TB drugs, outperforming traditional methods. Clinical implementation of the technique can recognize DR-TB in time and provide guidance for choosing appropriate antituberculosis agents.

Abstract Background Explaining contrasting patterns of distribution between related species is crucial for understanding the dynamics of biodiversity. Despite instances where hybridization and whole genome duplication (WGD) can yield detrimental outcomes, a role in facilitating the expansion of distribution range has been proposed. The Vitaceae genus Causonis exhibits great variations in species’ distribution ranges, with most species in the derived lineages having a much wider range than those in the early-diverged lineages. Hybridization and WGD events have been suggested to occur in Causonis based on evidence of phylogenetic discordance. The genus, therefore, provides us with an opportunity to for explore different hybridization and polyploidization modes in lineages with contrasting species’ distribution ranges. However, the evolutionary history of Causonis incorporating potential hybridization and WGD events remains to be explored. Results With plastid and nuclear data from dense sampling, this study resolved the phylogenetic relationships within Causonis and revealed significant cyto-nuclear discordance. Nuclear gene tree conflicts were detected across the genus, especially in the japonica-corniculata clade, which were mainly attributed to gene flow. This study also inferred the allopolyploid origin of the core Causonis species, which promoted the accumulation of stress-related genes. Causonis was estimated to have originated in continental Asia in the early Eocene, and experienced glaciation in the early Oligocene, shortly after the divergence of the early-divergent lineages. The japonica-corniculata clade mainly diversified in the Miocene, followed by temperature declines that may have facilitated secondary contact. Species distribution modeling based on current climate change predicted that the widespread C. japonica tends to be more invasive, while the endemic C. ciliifera may be at risk of extinction. Conclusions This study presents Causonis, a genus with complex reticulate evolutionary history, as a model of how hybridization and WGD modes differ in lineages of contrasting species’ geographic ranges. It is important to consider specific evolutionary histories and genetic properties of the focal species within conservation strategies.

We herein describe a new species, Panax siamensis J. Wen, from the tropical monsoon forests in northern Thailand. Panax siamensis is characterized by a combination of characters including horizontally elongated rhizomes with thick internodes, 3–5 whorled leaves each with 7–9 sessile and lanceolate leaflets, lanceolate bracteoles not persisting at the fruiting stage, 2-locular ovaries, and red fruits with a black top. The new species is most closely related to Panax zingiberensis C.Y. Wu & Feng from southeastern Yunnan province of China, sharing the character of sessile leaflets, but differing in that P. siamensis has well developed, elongated rhizomes (vs. compact, ginger-like rhizomes and rootstock in P. zingiberensis), and 7–9 leaflets (vs. (3–) 5–7 leaflets in P. zingiberensis). We also compare Panax siamensis to other related Asian Panax species, including P. assamicus Banerjee, P. bipinnatifidus Seem., P. pseudoginseng Wallich, and P. vietnamensis Ha & Grushv. The new taxon is preliminarily assessed as Vulnerable (VU D2), according to the IUCN Red List criteria. A taxonomic key is provided to facilitate the identification of P. siamensis and its close allies.

Abstract Background and aim The literature is sparse on the association between serum liver fibrosis markers and the development of hepatic decompensation in patients with compensated cirrhosis. We aimed to assessed whether the serum liver fibrosis markers are predictive of the occurrence of hepatic decompensation. Methods We ascertained 688 cirrhotic patients with varying etiologies, between December 2015 to December 2019. Serum hyaluronic acid (HA), laminin (LN), collagen IV (CIV), and N-terminal propeptide of type III collagen (PIIINP) levels were measured at enrollment. All subjects were followed for at least 6 months for occurrence of hepatic decompensation. Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) of hepatic decompensation during follow-up. Results During a median follow-up of 22.0 (13.0–32.0) months, decompensation occurred in 69 (10.0%) patients. Multivariate analysis indicated that higher LN (HR: 1.008, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.002–1.014, P = 0.011) and CIV (HR: 1.004, 95% CI: 1.001–1.007, P = 0.003) levels were independently associated with hepatic decompensation. Furthermore, patients in the tertile 2 and tertile 3 groups for CIV levels had HRs of 4.787 (1.419, 16.152) (P = 0.012) and 5.153 (1.508, 17.604) (P = 0.009), respectively, for occurrence of decompensation event compared with those in the tertile 1 group. Conclusion Serum liver fibrosis markers, particularly in CIV, appeared to be reliable biomarkers of disease progression and liver decompensation in patients with compensated cirrhosis with varying etiologies.

Plant organ biomass allocation and morphological characteristics are important functional traits. The responses of plant root, stem, and leaf traits to heterogeneous habitats in floodplain wetlands are highly important for understanding the ecological adaptation strategies of riparian plants. However, the patterns of these responses remain unclear. In a floodplain wetland in the middle reaches of the Heihe River, we studied the responses of the root, stem, and leaf morphological traits and biomass allocation of Leymus secalinus to varying habitat conditions. We measured these traits in three sample plots, delineated based on distance from the riverbank: plot I (near the riparian zone, 50–150 m from the riverbank), plot II (middle riparian zone, 200–300 m from the riverbank), and plot III (far riparian zone, 350–450 m from the riverbank). The results showed that in plot I, L. secalinus tended to have slender roots and stems and small leaves, with a biomass allocation strategy that maximized the root–shoot ratio (RSR). In plot II, L. secalinus had thick stems and moderate leaf and root patterns, and the RSR values were between those of plot I and plot III. In plot III, L. secalinus had thin and short stems and large leaves; furthermore, among the root morphological structures, plot III had the shortest Rhizome length (RL) and longest Rhizome diameter (RD), and the RSR was the lowest. Moreover, there was a significant correlation between organ biomass and leaf thickness, stem length, RD, and RL in the three habitats (p < 0.05). By balancing the biomass allocation among organs, wetland plants in floodplains balance changes in root, stem, and leaf morphological characteristics to improve their environmental adaptation.

In the original publication [...]

Avian primordial germ cells (PGCs) are essential in avian transgenic research, germplasm conservation, and disease resistance breeding. However, cultured PGCs are prone to fragmentation and apoptosis, regulated at transcriptional and translational levels, with N6-methyladenosine (m6A) being the most common mRNA modification. Resveratrol (RSV) is known for its antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties, but its effects on PGCs and the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. This study shows that RSV supplementation in cultured PGCs improves cell morphology, significantly enhances total antioxidant capacity (p < 0.01), reduces malondialdehyde levels (p < 0.05), increases anti-apoptotic BCL2 expression, and decreases Caspase-9 expression (p < 0.05). Additionally, RSV upregulates the expression of m6A reader proteins YTHDF1 and YTHDF3 (p < 0.05). m6A methylation sequencing revealed changes in mRNA m6A levels after RSV treatment, identifying 6245 methylation sites, with 1223 unique to the control group and 798 unique to the RSV group. Combined analysis of m6A peaks and mRNA expression identified 65 mRNAs with significantly altered methylation and expression levels. Sixteen candidate genes were selected, and four were randomly chosen for RT-qPCR validation, showing results consistent with the transcriptome data. Notably, FAM129A and SFRP1 are closely related to apoptosis, indicating potential research value. Overall, our study reveals the protective effects and potential mechanisms of RSV on chicken PGCs, providing new insight into its use as a supplement in reproductive stem cell culture.

Abstract Background Limited research has been conducted on the potential relationship between the dietary inflammation index (DII) and mortality, particularly in individuals with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection. This study aimed to investigate the association between the DII and H. pylori infection, as well as their respective impacts on all-cause mortality in a cohort of individuals with or without H. pylori infection. Methods Data from the 1999–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were utilized for this study, with a final of 4370 participants included. Both univariable and multivariable-adjusted logistic regression analyses were employed to explore the relationship between H. pylori infection and pertinent covariates. Cox regression analysis, as well as restricted regression cubic spline analysis, were utilized to assess the association between DII and all-cause mortality among individuals with or without H. pylori infection. Results The findings demonstrated a positive correlation between DII scores and H. pylori infection, even after adjusting for potential confounding factors. Moreover, higher DII scores were significantly associated with an elevated risk of mortality exclusively in individuals with H. pylori infection, while no such association was observed in the uninfected population. Additional analysis using restricted cubic spline modeling revealed a positive linear relationship between DII scores as a continuous variable and the adjusted risk of all-cause mortality specifically in H. pylori-infected patients. Conclusion The results of this study indicated that DII was positively correlated with an increased risk of H. pylori infection and was associated with a heightened risk of all-cause mortality solely in individuals with H. pylori infection. Consequently, DII might serve as a useful tool for risk stratification in the H. pylori-infected population among U.S. adults. Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and potential clinical implications of these findings.

Permafrost have a critical impact on the infrastructure construction， hydrology and ecology in the cold region.Under the background of global warming， it is of great significance to explore soil freeze-thawing cycle over the Western China.Based on the natural geographical and permafrost characteristics， the western region of China is divided into four sub-regions as the study region of this investigation.The ERA-5 surface temperature， soil volumetric water content and monthly air temperature data from January 1981 to June 2020 are to be deployed in analyzing the spatio-temporal distribution of soil freeze-thawing status， the active layer thickness and maximum freezing depth over the western China in the past 40 years.the correlationship between variables of freeze-thawing cycles and air temperature and altitude are discussed.The results show that： the spatio-temporal distribution of the start date of freezing and thawing has the characteristics of delayed freezing and early thawing from high-altitude areas to low-altitude areas over the western region.The high-altitude northern Tibetan plateau freezes the earliest， thaws the last， and freezes the longest.The sporadic areas on the Kunlun Mountains can last for more than 300 days.The Tarim Basin in the west-northwest with low altitude and low soil moisture content freezes the latest， melts the earliest， and lasts the longest.The melting in the Taklimakan Desert can last for more than 280 days.The thickness of the permafrost active layer is basically more than 2.0 m， only the area near the Karakoram Mountains has a large area with a thickness of less than 2 meters.the seasonal frozen soil of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau has the largest freezing depth， and the thickness can reach more than two meters， and the Tarim Basin shows a shallowest freezing depth， and the thickness is less than 0.6 m.The start date of freezing was delayed over the western region， and the start date of thawing was advanced.The date of start freezing and the date of completely frozen increased at a rate of 0.089 d·a-1and 0.061 d·a-1.The date of start thawing and the date of completely thawed decreased at a rate of 0.102 d·a-1 and 0.156 d·a-1.When the freezing trend is rising and the thawing trend is declining， the duration of completely thawed increased by about 12 days at a rate of 0.256 d·a-1， and the duration of completely frozen is shortened by about 11 days with a rate of 0.164 d·a-1， during the study period， the start date of completely thawed was mutated in 1996.The date of start freezing and the duration of completely thawed were abrupted changed in 1997.The overall change trend of the start date of the freezing and thawing is the same over the western region， but there are locally slight differences.The duration of start freezing and completely frozen of the Loess Plateau decreased the fastest at the rate of 0.166 d·a-1 and 0.405 d·a-1.The duration of start freezing and the duration of completely frozen were shortened by around 7 and 16 days.The trends in the duration of completely melt period in all four regions showed an upward trend.However， the duration of completely frozen rises rapidly at a rate of 0.435 d·a-1 over the Loess Plateau， and increase about 17 days during 1981 -2020.There is a significant correlation between the start dates of freezing and thawing and the annual average temperature and altitude.The correlation between the annual average temperature and all freeze-thaw times exceeded 0.79， and the negative correlation between the date of completely thawed and the annual average temperature was as high as 0.963.The start date of freezing was delayed by 2.03 days per 1.0 ℃ increase， the start date of complete freezing was delayed by 2.12 days， and the start dates of completely thawed and frozen were advanced by 5.10 and 5.17 days， respectively.The start dates of freezing and completely frozen are advanced by 6.1 days and 4.5 days per 1000 m rise in altitude， respectively， and the start dates of thawing and freezing are delayed by 14.4 days and 19.9 days， respectively.This research clarifies the situation of soil freezing and thawing and its variation in the past years over the western China， and provides a scientific supports for the ecological system and infrastructure construction over the western region.

The Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon region （referred to as the YGC）， located in the southeast Qinghai-Xizang Plateau， is the main channel of the warm and humid air transported from the India Ocean to the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau （referred to as the QXP）， and it plays an important role in the water and energy cycle of the QXP.In order to explore the influences of the different horizontal water vapor transport on the water & heat exchanges flux， the water vapor intensity over the YGC from May 20， to July 9， 2013， was divided into three levels： strong， weak， and very weak based on the ECMWF Re-Analyses version5 data.And the fifth-generation public land model （Community Land Model version 5.0， CLM5.0） was deployed to simulate the impact of the horizontal water vapor transport on the YGC-atmospheric water and heat exchanges.The results show that the south （east） boundary of the YGC is the main input （output） boundary of water vapor， and the YGC valley over the south of the YGC is a strong water vapor transport belt.The YGC-atmospheric water & heat exchanges fluxes simulated by CLM5.0 has large errors compared to the actual measurements， the CLM5.0 simulated near-surface water & heat exchanges fluxes over the YGC have a high accuracy by optimizing the thermal roughness length （Z0h） parameterization schemes replacing the default soil attribute data-set.Compared with the simulations by using the CLM5.0 default parameterization scheme， the one developed by Zeng and Dickinson （1998）.（Z98 scheme for short） has the lowest errors， the root mean square error of the near-surface sensible heat flux at the wheat station and the grassland station decreased by 18.2% and 10.9%， respectively.The results of regional simulation show that the general distribution of the near-surface latent heat flux （LE） over the YGC is high in the southeast and low in the northwest， while the near-surface sensible heat flux （H） is the opposite.As the water vapor transport intensity decreasing， the area with high near-surface latent heat flux extends to the northwest， while the near-surface sensible heat flux （H） is the opposite.The H in the high-altitude ice and snow-covered area maintains a low value， while the LE is the opposite.During the entire experimental period， the precipitation was as high as 59% over the YGC， which is abundant precipitation.The near-surface effective energy is mainly transported to the atmosphere in a form of latent heat under different horizontal water vapor transport conditions.The near-surface sensible heat transport is the weakest in the strong water vapor transport belt under the condition of strong horizontal water vapor transport.The regional daily average value of the H is only -1.80 W∙m-2 by using the Z98 scheme， while the LE is greater than 70.0 W∙m-2.When the water vapor maintains a high-value range over the Grand Canyon area， the near-surface net radiation decreases， but the near-surface net radiation is still mainly consumed by the latent heat.The warming effect of the water vapor on the local atmosphere resulted in the difference of ground-atmospheric temperature decreases， and the near-surface sensible heat is significantly inhibited.The results of this study have a certain reference value for understanding the land surface process over the YGC and its response to horizontal water vapor transport.

ObjectivesThe wetting gradient surface has potential application value in such fields as ship anti-fouling and submarine drag reduction, requiring further research on low-cost and low-complexity wetting gradient surface preparation technology.MethodsThe preparation and static wetting characteristics of a silica-based wetting gradient surface are analyzed using vapor deposition, alkali corrosion and a combination of both.ResultsThe contact angle using vapor deposition reaches 104.9°, with a largest range of about 23°; that using alkali corrosion reaches 80.2°, with a largest range of about 60°; and that using both methods reaches 102.1°, with a largest range of about 40°.ConclusionsThe results of this study can provide references for the preparation of functional surfaces for marine equipment.

Context: The incidence of urolithiasis is increasing year by year. Ureteral stents are a popular treatment option for this condition. Efforts to improve the material and structure of stents to increase comfort and reduce complications have led to the introduction of magnetic stents. Objective: To evaluate differences in removal efficiency and safety for magnetic and conventional stents. Evidence acquisition: This study was conducted and reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Data were extracted according to the PRISMA principles. We collected and combined data from randomized controlled trials on magnetic versus conventional stents to evaluate the efficiency of their removal and the associated effects. Data synthesis was performed using RevMan 5.4.1 and heterogeneity was evaluated using I2 tests. A sensitivity analysis was also performed. Key metrics included the stent removal time, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain scores, and Ureteral Stent Symptom Questionnaire (USSQ) scores for various domains. Evidence synthesis: Seven studies were included in the review. We found that magnetic stents had a shorter removal time (mean difference [MD] −8.28 min, 95% confidence interval [CI] −15.6 to −0.95; p = 0.03) and their removal was associated with less pain (MD −3.01 points, 95% CI −3.83 to −2.19; p

Early-onset obesity is a rising health concern influenced by heredity. However, many monogenic obesity variants (MOVs) remain to be discovered due to differences in ethnicity and culture. Additionally, patients with known MOVs have shown limited weight loss after bariatric surgery, suggesting it can be used as a screening tool for new candidates. In this study, we performed whole-exome sequencing (WES) combined with postoperative data to detect candidate MOVs in a cohort of 62 early-onset obesity and 9 late-onset obesity patients. Our findings demonstrated that patients with early-onset obesity preferred a higher BMI and waist circumference (WC). We confirmed the efficacy of the method by identifying a mutation in known monogenic obesity gene, PCSK1, which resulted in less weight loss after surgery. 5 genes were selected for further verification, and a frameshift variant in CAMKK2 gene: NM_001270486.1, c.1614dup, (p. Gly539Argfs*3) was identified as a novel candidate MOV. This mutation influenced the improvement of metabolism after bariatric surgery. In conclusion, our data confirm the efficacy of WES combined with postoperative data in detecting novel candidate MOVs and c.1614dup (CAMKK2) might be a promising MOV, which needs further confirmation. This study enriches the human monogenic obesity mutation database and provides a scientific basis for clinically accurate diagnosis and treatment.