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Background: Kidneys with double renal arteries are used on a routine basis nowadays, and separate anastomosis in situ is one of the suitable arterial anastomosis procedures. The commonly used methods are parallel end-to-side anastomoses of double arteries to the external iliac artery, and end-to-end anastomosis to the internal iliac artery combined with end-to-side anastomosis to the external iliac artery. No studies have compared the prognoses of the two procedures in deceased kidney transplantation. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 35 consecutive deceased kidney transplantations with double arterial anastomoses in the urology department of China–Japan Friendship Hospital from January 2018 to April 2021. Group I comprised recipients with double parallel end-to-side anastomoses to the external iliac artery; Group II comprised the others. Their prognoses were then compared. Results: There were no significant differences between Group I and II in characteristics of recipients and donors. The mean eGFRs at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months post-transplant in Group I and II were 36.4 vs 54.1 (P = 0.009), 40.4 vs 54.4 (P = 0.02), 40.4 vs 56.9 (P = 0.02) and 39.8 vs 57.9 (P = 0.007) mL/min respectively. There was no difference in early postoperative complications and 1-year survival rates between the two groups (P = 1.00). Conclusion: Separate anastomosis is a reliable procedure for deceased kidney transplantation with double arteries. Double separate anastomoses to the external and internal iliac arteries have better graft function compared with double parallel anastomoses to the external iliac artery during the first year after transplantation.

The osteoporotic bone defect caused by excessive activity of osteoclasts has posed a challenge for public healthcare. However, most existing bioinert bone cement fails to effectively regulate the pathological bone microenvironment and reconstruct bone homeostasis in the presence of osteoclast overactivity and osteoblast suppression. Herein, inspired by natural bone tissue, an in-situ modulation system for osteoporotic bone regeneration is developed by fabricating an injectable double-crosslinked PEGylated poly(glycerol sebacate) (PEGS)/calcium phosphate cement (CPC) loaded with sodium alendronate (ALN) (PEGS/CPC@ALN) adhesive bone cement. By incorporating ALN, the organic-inorganic interconnection within PEGS/CPC@ALN results in a 100 % increase in compression modulus and energy dissipation efficiency. Additionally, PEGS/CPC@ALN effectively adheres to the bone by bonding with amine and calcium ions present on the bone surface. Moreover, this in-situ regulation system comprehensively mitigates excessive bone resorption through the buffering effect of CPC to improve the acidic microenvironment of osteoporotic bone and the release of ALN to inhibit hyperactive osteoclasts, and facilitates stem cell proliferation and differentiation into osteoblasts through calcium ion release. Overall, the PEGS/CPC@ALN effectively regulates the pathological microenvironment of osteoporosis while promoting bone regeneration through synergistic effects of drugs and materials, thereby improving bone homeostasis and enabling minimally invasive treatment for osteoporotic defects.

Abstract Background Dens invaginatus is a developmental abnormality originating from tooth development, including coronal invaginatus and radicular invaginatus. The reported incidence varies greatly due to diagnostic techniques, classification criteria and race. The incidence of dens invaginatus in China was not clear, and the impact of dens invaginatus on periodontal support tissue were rarely reported. This study aims to clarify the incidence of maxillary lateral incisor dens invaginatus and its impact on periodontal supporting tissues. Methods From the cone-beam computed tomography database, images of 212 maxillary lateral incisors from 106 Chinese patients were selected. Teeth that met the Oehlers classification criteria for coronal invaginatus were recorded as coronal invaginatus, and teeth with radicular cystoid invaginatus or radicular groove were classified as radicular dens invaginatus. The complexity of radicular groove was determined by Gu’s classification standard. Both of coronal invaginatus and radicular dens invaginatus were recorded as dens invaginatus. For 15 patients with unilateral radicular dens invaginatus, the periodontal ligament area of the affected teeth and the corresponding natural teeth in the same jaw were measured and compared. Results The overall incidence of maxillary lateral incisor invaginatus in China is 25.0%. The incidence of coronal invaginatus is 12.3%, and the incidence of radicular dens invaginatus is 14.6%. No significant differences were observed between genders or sides. In this study, all radicular dens invaginatus exhibited as radicular groove, of which 87.1% were Gu type I, 9.7% were Gu type II, and 3.2% were Gu type III. Although the difference was not statistically significant, the average periodontal ligament area of the maxillary lateral incisor with radicular dens invaginatus was 148.93 ± 35.62mm2, smaller than that of the control teeth (152.28 ± 40.22mm2). Conclusions The dens invaginatus of the maxillary lateral incisor is common. There is no significant difference in the incidence between genders or between sides. The main manifestation of the radicular dens invaginatus is the radicular groove (Gu’s type I). This anatomical abnormality may reduce the periodontal ligament area. The presence of the additional root of the maxillary lateral incisor is not rare and was supposed to be highly concerned by dentists.

【Objective】The world has entered the era of 5th Generation Mobile Communication Technology (5G) and satellite Internet, and the demand for communication speed and capacity in various fields has surged, while the application of traditional parabolic and narrowband planar phased array antenna systems is limited by factors such as bandwidth and beamforming. Based on the current trend of related industries and the application requirements of broadband multi-target, this paper studies the Ka-band wideband multi-beam solid-state phased array technology.【Methods】This paper theoretically establishes and derives a general vector mathematical simulation model of phased array antenna pattern, studies the subarray division, aperture effect, and crossing time of phased array antenna, and designs a broadband multibeam phased array system based on the combination of element-level electro-shift phase shift and sub-array stage optical-delay. The front-end single integrated subarray adopts the three-dimensional high-density heterogeneous tile integration scheme of different material substrates, which greatly improves the integration degree of the subarray. The sub-array post-stage adopts the Optical True Time Delay (OTTD) method based on optical switching, high-precision optical fiber delay line and wavelength division multiplexing to realize multi-channel delay and multi-beam synthesis of the sub-array stage.【Results】By integrating and testing the principle prototype of the Ka-band wideband multi-beam receiving phased array system, it is verified that the principle prototype overcomes the bandwidth limitation problems such as aperture crossing time and beam skew. The prototype can realize the wide-angle scanning of eight independent receiving beams in the Ka-band, and the maximum transmission data rate of each receiving beam can reach 1 500 Mbit/s.【Conclusion】The test results show that the system has the advantages of high integration, large bandwidth, and multiple independent beams. The research results will help promote the further development of wideband multi-beam solid-state phased array, and lay a theoretical and practical foundation for the subsequent engineering and productization of Ka-band wideband multi-target phased array.

Abstract Clinical studies of the urinary tract microbiome, termed urobiome, suggest a direct, antibiotic-dependent, impact of the urobiome on kidney physiology. However, evidence for kidney bacteria comes from indirect sources or infected tissue. Further, it is unclear how antibiotics impact kidney bacteria. Here we show direct evidence for the presence of bacteria in the kidneys, with microniches in nephrons. In murine kidneys, administration of cefazolin, a commonly used perioperative antibiotic, led to a loss of uroprotective Lactobacillus spp. and proliferation of Enterobacteriaceae (which includes many known uropathogens). This effect was dependent on treatment duration, with recovery post treatment. Uroprotective L. crispatus and a strain of stone-associated E. coli differentially influenced calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystallization through the incorporation of CaOx inhibitors or promoters, respectively. In humans, microbial signatures were identified in the kidney, with unique niches between the glomeruli and tubules, established through RNA sequencing analysis and direct imaging of two independent populations. Collectively, findings support the hypothesis that the kidneys harbor a stable and antibiotic-responsive microbiota that can influence CaOx lithogenesis. The presence of unique, age-dependent microbial signatures in the glomeruli and tubuli carry implications for non-infectious kidney diseases.

The technology of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) has enabled the conversion of somatic cells into primitive undifferentiated cells via reprogramming. This approach provides possibilities for cell replacement therapies and drug screening, but the potential risk of tumorigenesis hampers its further development and in vivo application. How to generate differentiated cells such as valvular endothelial cells (VECs) has remained a major challenge.Utilizing a combinatorial strategy of selective soluble chemicals, cytokines and substrate stiffness modulation, mouse embryonic fibroblasts are directly and efficiently transdifferentiated into induced aortic endothelial cell-like cells (iAECs), or human primary adult fibroblasts are transdifferentiated into induced valvular endothelial cell-like cells (hiVECs), without expressing pluripotency stem cell markers. These iAECs and hiVECs express VEC-associated genes and proteins and VEC-specific marker NFATC1 and are functional in culture and on decellularized porcine aortic valves, like mouse aortic endothelial cells or human primary aortic valvular endothelial cells. The iAECs and hiVECs seeded on decellularized porcine aortic valves stay intact and express VEC-associated proteins for 60 days after grafting into abdominal aorta of immune-compromised rats. In contrast, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are less efficient in differentiating into VEC-like cells and pluripotency marker Nanog is expressed in a small subpopulation of iPSC-derived VEC-like cells that generate teratomas in SCID mice whereas hiVECs derived from transdifferentiation do not generate teratomas in vivo. Our findings highlight an approach to efficiently convert fibroblasts into iAECs and hiVECs and seed them onto decellularized aortic valves for safely generating autologous tissue-engineered aortic valves without using viruses or first reprogramming the cells into pluripotent stem cells.

Abstract Background The optimal treatment for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries with early-stage symptomless osteoarthritis (OA) remains unclear. This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of ACL reconstruction (ACLR) in patients with ACL injury in the presence and absence of early-stage symptomless OA. Methods Medical records of patients with early-stage symptomless OA who sustained ACL injury and underwent ACLR from January 2018 to December 2020 at a single institution were retrospectively reviewed. Radiography and magnetic resonance imaging were performed preoperatively to identify ACL injury and OA. Patients with ACL injury and early-stage symptomless OA (combined group, n = 14) were matched at a 1:2 ratio with patients with ACL injury (isolated group, n = 32). Data on demographic characteristics, pain and functional outcomes (visual analogue scale, Tegner, Lysholm, and International Knee Documentation Committee scores and range of motion), and imaging outcomes were collected. Complications were recorded, and outcomes were compared between the groups. Results Forty-six patients (26 males, 20 females) were included in this study, among whom 14 had ACL injury and early-stage symptomless OA, whereas 32 sustained isolated ACL injury (average follow-up duration: 3.4 ± 1.0 years). At the final follow-up, pain and functional outcomes similar to those in patients with isolated ACL-deficient knees were achieved in the combined group; acute-stage ACLR resulted in significantly better outcomes (p

Abstract Background Accurately identifying effective biomarkers and translating them into clinical practice have significant implications for improving clinical outcomes in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study, our objective is to explore appropriate methods to improve the accuracy of biomarker identification and investigate their clinical value. Methods Concentrating on the N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification regulators, we utilized dozens of multi-omics HCC datasets to analyze the expression patterns and genetic features of m6A regulators. Through the integration of big data analysis with function experiments, we have redefined the biological roles of m6A regulators in HCC. Based on the key regulators, we constructed m6A risk models and explored their clinical value in estimating prognosis and guiding personalized therapy for HCC. Results Most m6A regulators exhibit abnormal expression in HCC, and their expression is influenced by copy number variations (CNV) and DNA methylation. Large-scale data analysis has revealed the biological roles of many key m6A regulators, and these findings are well consistent with experimental results. The m6A risk models offer significant prognostic value. Moreover, they assist in reassessing the therapeutic potential of drugs such as sorafenib, gemcitabine, CTLA4 and PD1 blockers in HCC. Conclusions Our findings suggest that the mutual validation of big data analysis and functional experiments may facilitate the precise identification and definition of biomarkers, and our m6A risk models may have the potential to guide personalized chemotherapy, targeted treatment, and immunotherapy decisions in HCC.

Abstract Background Centrosomal protein of 55 kDa (CEP55) overexpression has been linked to tumor stage, aggressiveness of the tumor, poor prognosis, and metastasis. This study aims to elucidate the action of CEP55 in ovarian cancer (OC) and the regulation by the alpha-ketoglutarate-dependent dioxygenase alkB homolog 5 (ALKBH5)/Forkhead box protein P2 (FOXP2) axis. Methods Differentially expressed genes in OC were identified using in silico identification, followed by prognostic value assessment. Lentiviral vectors were constructed to downregulate CEP55 in OC cells, and colony formation, EdU, TUNEL, flow cytometry, Transwell assays, and Phalloidin staining were conducted. Transcription factors regulating CEP55 were predicted and verified, and rescue experiments were performed. The effect of ALKBH5-mediated demethylation on FOXP2 mRNA stability and OC cell cycle and EMT were analyzed. Results High expression of CEP55 in OC was linked to unsatisfactory prognosis of patients. Knockdown of CEP55 repressed proliferation, invasiveness, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) while inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in OC cells. FOXP2 bound to the promoter of CEP55 to repress CEP55 transcription. FOXP2 regulated transcriptional repression of CEP55 to impede the malignant progression of OC and inhibit tumor metastasis. ALKBH5-mediated demethylation modification induced mRNA degradation of FOXP2. Knockdown of ALKBH5 induced cell cycle arrest and inhibited EMT in OC cells. Conclusions ALKBH5 hinders FOXP2-mediated transcriptional repression of CEP55 to promote the malignant progression of OC via cell cycle and EMT.

Abstract Background Nonrestorative sleep (NRS) is related to numerous adverse outcomes. There is rare evidence of its associated factors, especially in Chinese adolescents. This study aimed to explore the factors associated with NRS in Chinese adolescents and the potential moderation effects of coffee or tea consumption. Methods This cross-sectional study invited adolescents attending Grades 7–11 in Nanjing, China, to complete a self-administered questionnaire, including their NRS, stress, anxiety, physical symptoms, depression, sociodemographics, and lifestyles. Linear regressions were applied to investigate the associated factors of their NRS, with the moderation effects of coffee or tea consumption and other characteristics being tested by additionally including their interactions. Results Totally 481 adolescents (49% male, age 15.5 ± 1.5 years) were enrolled, with the average global NRS score of 42.16 ± 7.57. Higher family income (β = 2.01, P = 0.007), longer sleep duration (β = 2.33, P = 0.011), and moderate after-class activity (β = 1.50, P = 0.044) contributed less NRS, while higher educational level (β = −2.60, P = 0.033), more coffee or tea consumption (β = −1.68, P = 0.013), physical symptoms (β = −3.85, P

Abstract Background N4‐acetylcytidine (ac4C) represents a novel messenger RNA (mRNA) modification, and its associated acetyltransferase N‐acetyltransferase 10 (NAT10) plays a crucial role in the initiation and progression of tumors by regulating mRNA functionality. However, its role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development and prognosis is largely unknown. This study aimed to elucidate the role of NAT10‐mediated ac4C in HCC progression and provide a promising therapeutic approach. Methods The ac4C levels were evaluated by dot blot and ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry with harvested HCC tissues. The expression of NAT10 was investigated using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, and immunohistochemical staining across 91 cohorts of HCC patients. To explore the underlying mechanisms of NAT10‐ac4C in HCC, we employed a comprehensive approach integrating acetylated RNA immunoprecipitation and sequencing, RNA sequencing and ribosome profiling analyses, along with RNA immunoprecipitation, RNA pull‐down, mass spectrometry, and site‐specific mutation analyses. The drug affinity responsive targets stability, cellular thermal shift assay, and surface plasmon resonance assays were performed to assess the specific binding of NAT10 and Panobinostat. Furthermore, the efficacy of targeting NAT10‐ac4C for HCC treatment was elucidated through in vitro experiments using HCC cells and in vivo HCC mouse models. Results Our investigation revealed a significant increase in both the ac4C RNA level and NAT10 expression in HCC. Notably, elevated NAT10 expression was associated with poor outcomes in HCC patients. Functionally, silencing NAT10 suppressed HCC proliferation and metastasis in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, NAT10 stimulates the ac4C modification within the coding sequence (CDS) of high mobility group protein B2 (HMGB2), which subsequently enhances HMGB2 translation by facilitating eukaryotic elongation factor 2 (eEF2) binding to the ac4C sites on HMGB2 mRNA's CDS. Additionally, high‐throughput compound library screening revealed Panobinostat as a potent inhibitor of NAT10‐mediated ac4C modification. This inhibition significantly attenuated HCC growth and metastasis in both in vitro experiments using HCC cells and in vivo HCC mouse models. Conclusions Our study identified a novel oncogenic epi‐transcriptome axis involving NAT10‐ac4C/eEF2‐HMGB2, which plays a pivotal role in regulating HCC growth and metastasis. The drug Panobinostat validates the therapeutic potential of targeting this axis for HCC treatment.

Background: Despite advancements with intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), about 10 % of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients remain resistant to radiotherapy, leading to recurrence and poor prognosis. This study aims to identify radiosensitivity-related genes in NPC and develop a prognostic model to predict patient outcomes. Methods: We analyzed 179 NPC samples from Fujian Cancer Hospital using RNA sequencing. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between radiotherapy-sensitive and resistant samples. Machine learning algorithms and Cox regression were used to construct a prognostic risk model, validated in the GSE102349 dataset. Additional analyses included functional pathway, immune infiltration, and drug sensitivity. Results: A risk model based on six genes (LCN8, IGSF1, RIMS2, RBP4, TBX10, ETV4) was developed. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed significantly shorter progression-free survival (PFS) in the high-risk group. The model's AUC values were 0.872, 0.807, and 0.802 for 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year predictions. A nomogram including clinical factors was created, and enrichment analysis linked the high-risk group to radiotherapy resistance mechanisms. Conclusions: This study established a novel radiosensitivity-related prognostic model, offering insights into NPC prognosis and radiotherapy resistance mechanisms.

ObjectivesIt is significant to know how much early detection and screening could reduce the proportion of occult metastases and benefit NSCLC patients.MethodsWe used previously designed and validated mathematical models to obtain the characteristics of LC in the population including undetectable metastases at the time of diagnosis. The survival was simulated using the survival functions from Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) data stratified by stage.ResultsBased on the simulations, 35.3% of patients diagnosed with stage N0M0 and 56.9% of those diagnosed with stage N1M0 had nodal or distant metastases that were not discovered at the time of diagnosis. Among clinically detected Stage I lung cancers with tumor diameter 1-2 cm, 78% were true stage N0M0 (no occult metastases) while it was only 37% for patients with tumor diameters of 2-3 cm. This size threshold can be translated into a 0.75-year the "window of opportunity" for the curable disease. In a comparative analysis of two simulated groups of individuals: (1) clinically diagnosed (2) diagnosed by screening with a varying screening frequency (quarterly, biannual, annual and biennial), it was estimated that, once the screening intervals become shorter, substantially more cancers are found, but at an expense of a higher radiation exposure. The simulation projected that the mortality reduction in screened patients depending on the frequency, ranged from 15.04% to 18.82%.ConclusionsThe probability of occult metastases significantly increases when the primary tumor exceeds 2 cm in diameter. Effective screening measures that detect smaller tumors will considerably benefit asymptomatic LC patients.

Abstract In situ tissue engineering heart valves (TEHVs) are the most promising way to overcome the defects of existing valve prostheses. Despite their promising prospects, the clinical translation of TEHVs remains a formidable challenge, mainly due to unpredictable host interactions post‐implantation. An immunomodulatory idea based on hydrogel encapsulation of nanoparticle‐coated heart valve scaffolds is introduced. Specifically, galactose‐modified human serum albumin nanoparticles (miR‐93@HSA NPs) to deliver microRNA‐93 mimics are utilized, which target macrophages and induce their differentiation into the anti‐inflammatory M2 subtype, fostering a conducive immune microenvironment. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐responsive hydrogel is used to encapsulate the nanoparticles, enabling targeted and sustained release. Results show that the miR‐93@HSA NPs exhibit excellent ability to induce macrophage polarization toward the M2 phenotype. A decellularized valve modified with hydrogel reveals MMP‐response release of the miR‐93@HSA NPs. In vitro, the immunomodulatory heart valve possesses good endocytocompatibility and effectively reprograms macrophages when cocultured with HUVECs or RAW264.7 macrophages. In vivo, this valve scaffold promises to mitigate early inflammatory damage and provide a pro‐endothelialization niche for scaffolds' constructive remodeling. With the use of cell coculture systems and transcriptome sequencing, the mechanism of immune‐modulating scaffold accelerating endothelialization is being elucidated. The immunomodulatory heart valve scaffold holds promising potential for clinical translation.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation of compound probiotics on the performance, egg quality, biochemical parameters and intestinal morphology of laying hens. A total of 180 healthy 200-day-old Hyline Brown laying hens with similar initial laying rate (87.5% ± 0.2%) were randomly divided into the control group and the treatment group. Each group included 6 replicates and each replicate included 15 laying hens. The control group was provided a basal diet, while the treatment group received the basal diet supplemented with compound probiotics. The experiment lasted for 52 days. The study indicated the following outcomes: (1) The laying rate (LR) and average egg weight (AEW) of laying hens in the treatment group were significantly higher than those of the control group (p

This study aims to explore the pathogenic potential of Leclercia adecarboxylata as a rare pathogen in immunocompetent individuals and to analyze how mental health status may influence susceptibility to infection. We report a case of bacteremia in a 31-year-old immunocompetent female who developed L. adecarboxylata infection during an episode of severe depression. Although the patient exhibited self-harm tendencies, a thorough physical examination did not reveal any external wounds or signs of injury. This case demonstrates that, despite the absence of obvious external infection sources, invasive procedures, or visible trauma, L. adecarboxylata can induce severe bacteremia in immunocompetent individuals. The patient presented with high fever and systemic inflammatory response, with blood cultures confirming the presence of L. adecarboxylata, and chest imaging showing bilateral lower lobe inflammation. Following treatment with ceftriaxone, the patient’s symptoms rapidly improved, and infection markers normalized. This study elucidates the potential mechanisms by which L. adecarboxylata can cause infection in immunocompetent individuals and examines the influence of mental health on infection susceptibility. It provides new insights into the complex relationship between mental illness and infection, highlighting the need for further investigation into how mental health may affect infection risk and its clinical management. In conjunction with existing research, this study discusses how psychological stress and behavioral patterns may increase infection risk and recommends future research to further explore the interplay between mental disorders and infectious diseases.

Coronaviruses (CoVs) pose a threat to human health globally, as highlighted by severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) and the COVID-19 pandemic. Bats from the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) are an important natural reservoir for CoVs. Here we report the differential prevalence of CoVs in bats within Yunnan Province across biological and ecological variables. We also show the coexistence of CoVs in individual bats and identify an additional putative host for SARS-related CoV, with higher dispersal capacity than other known hosts. Notably, 11 SARS-related coronaviruses (SARSr-CoVs) were discovered in horseshoe bats (family Rhinolophidae) and a Chinese water myotis bat (Myotis laniger) by pan-CoV detection and Illumina sequencing. Our findings facilitate an understanding of the fundamental features of the distribution and circulation of CoVs in nature as well as zoonotic spillover risk in the One health framework.

To explore the effect of different drying methods on the floral quality and volatile flavor compounds of Jinmudan tea flowers, three drying techniques were selected including vacuum freeze-drying (pre-freezing for 2 hours, freeze-dried for 6, 8, 10 hours, cold trap temperature −50 ℃, which were treatments 1, 2 and 3 respectively), hot air drying (the treatment time was 3, 4 and 5 hours, and the baking temperature was 75 ℃, which were treatments 4, 5 and 6 respectively), and natural drying (CK). The effects of these drying processes on sensory quality, chemical composition, amino acid profile, and volatile flavor compounds of tea flowers were analyzed. The results revealed that tea flowers dried using the vacuum freeze-drying method exhibited the best sensory quality, with a distinct honey aroma preserved. Among them, the tea flowers subjected to treatment 3 obtained the highest overall sensory evaluation score, along with higher levels of water extract, tea polyphenols, and caffeine content. Furthermore, they exhibited the highest total amino acid content, sweetness amino acid content, freshness amino acid content, and essential amino acid content. A total of 107 volatile compounds were identified across the 3 drying processes, with alcohols, alkanes, and ketones comprising the predominant volatile components. Hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) based on principal component analysis (PCA) further classified the volatile substances into 4 groups corresponding to 3 drying methods. A partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) model was established to select 35 volatile components with variable importance in projection (VIP) values greater than 1, indicating differential markers. Additionally, the volatile substance patchoulol was identified as unique to the CK group. In summary, vacuum freeze-drying is the most effective method for preserving the aroma and bioactive compounds of tea flowers, with treatment 3 demonstrating the optimal overall evaluation. This study provides a theoretical basis for exploring the effects of drying methods on the quality and flavor of tea flowers and their corresponding changes in volatile components.

Objective The object of this study was to investigate the effect of replacing soybean meal with Clostridium autoethanogenum protein (CAP) in broiler diets on growth performance, blood indicators, antioxidant capacity, and immune function. Methods A total of 180 Arbor Acres broilers were randomly divided into three treatments, each treatment with six replicates and 10 broilers per replicate for a 42-day feeding trial. The control group (CON) was fed corn-soybean meal based diet. The CAP-1 and CAP-2 groups were considered to use CAP to replace 25% or 50% of soybean meal in the diet, respectively. The average daily gain and average daily feed intake of broilers at 1 to 21 d, 22 to 42 d, and 1 to 42 d were measured, and the feed conversion ratio was calculated. At the 42nd day of age, two broilers with similar weights and fasted for 12 h were selected in each replicate for blood collection from the brachial wing vein. The blood routine indicators, serum biochemical indicators, serum antioxidant capacity, and immunoglobulin content of broiler chickens were measured. Results Replacement of soybean meal with 25% (CAP-1) and 50% (CAP-2) CAP significantly increased the average daily gain of 22 to 42 d and 1 to 42 d and decreased the average daily feed intake and feed conversion rate (p

Abstract Background Patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) display an altered oral, gastrointestinal, and intra-pancreatic microbiome compared to healthy individuals. However, knowledge regarding the bile microbiome and its potential impact on progression-free survival in PDACs remains limited. Methods Patients with PDAC (n = 45), including 20 matched pairs before and after surgery, and benign controls (n = 16) were included prospectively. The characteristics of the microbiomes of the total 81 bile were revealed by 16 S-rRNA gene sequencing. PDAC patients were divided into distinct groups based on tumor marker levels, disease staging, before and after surgery, as well as progression free survival (PFS) for further analysis. Disease diagnostic model was formulated utilizing the random forest algorithm. Results PDAC patients harbor a unique and diverse bile microbiome (PCoA, weighted Unifrac, p = 0.038), and the increasing microbial diversity is correlated with dysbiosis according to key microbes and microbial functions. Aliihoeflea emerged as the genus displaying the most significant alteration among two groups (p

Abstract Background Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen, DS) and Radix Paeoniae Rubra (Chishao, CS) herbal pair (DS-CS) is a famous traditional Chinese combination which has been used as antithrombotic formular for centuries. However, there is still lack of sufficient scientific evidence to illustrate its underlying mechanisms. The purpose of this study is to investigate the antithrombotic effects of DS-CS extract in zebrafish and explore its possible mechanism of action. Methods The quality of traditional Chinese medicines DS and CS granules was evaluated using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Subsequently, the therapeutic effect of the DS-CS combination and its components, Salvianolic Acid A (SAA) and Paeoniflorin (PF), in various concentrations on thrombosis was experimentally validated. Moreover, the interaction between DS-CS and the thrombosis disease targets was analyzed through network pharmacology, predicting the potential antithrombotic mechanism of DS-CS. Molecular docking and in vivo zebrafish experiments were conducted to validate the predicted targets, with qRT-PCR utilized for target validation. Results DS-CS exhibited anti-thrombotic effect in zebrafish with concentrations ranging from 25 to 300 μg/mL. The co-administration of PF and SAA at 25 μg/mL each revealed a synergistic antithrombotic effect exceeding that of individual components when contrasted with PHZ treatment. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) analysis identified key genes, including Albumin (ALB), Proto-oncogene tyro-sine-protein kinase Src (SRC), Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9), Caspase-3 (CASP3), Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), Fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2), Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (KDR), Matrix metalloprotein-ase-2(MMP2), Thrombin (F2), and Coagulation factor Xa (F10), associated with the antithrombotic action of PF and SAA. Furthermore, KEGG pathway analysis indicated involvement of lipid metabolism and atherosclerosis pathways. Molecular docking revealed strong binding of PF and SAA to pivotal hub genes, such as SRC, EGFR, and F10. The experimental findings demonstrated that DS-CS could upregulate the mRNA expression levels of EGFR while inhibiting F10 and SRC mRNA levels, thereby ameliorating thrombotic conditions. Conclusion This research provided valuable insights into the potential mechanisms underlying the antithrombotic activity of DS-CS. Our findings suggested that PF and SAA could be the key active ingredients responsible for this activity. The antithrombotic effects of DS-CS appeared to be mediated through the regulation of mRNA expression of SRC, EGFR, and F10. These results enhanced our understanding of DS-CS's therapeutic potential and lay the groundwork for future studies to further elucidate its mechanisms of action.

Abstract Background Metabolic abnormalities and immune inflammation are deeply involved in pulmonary vascular remodelling and the development of pulmonary hypertension (PH). However, the regulatory mechanisms of glycolysis in macrophages are still elusive. Cumulative evidence indicates that β-catenin plays a crucial role in metabolic reprogramming. This study aimed to investigate the effect of β-catenin on macrophage glycolysis in PH. Methods LPS-induced BMDMs were generated via in vitro experiments. A monocrotaline (MCT)-induced PH rat model was established, and the β-catenin inhibitor XAV939 was administered in vivo. The role of β-catenin in glycolysis was analysed. The degree of pulmonary vascular remodelling was measured. Results β-catenin was significantly increased in both in vitro and in vivo models. In LPS-induced BMDMs, β-catenin increased the levels of hexokinase 2 (HK2), phosphofructokinase (PFK), M2-pyruvate kinase (PKM2), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and lactate (LA) and the expression of inflammatory cytokines and promoted PASMC proliferation and migration in vitro. XAV939 decreased the level of glycolysis and downregulated the expression of inflammatory cytokines in vivo. MCT promoted pulmonary arterial structural remodelling and right ventricular hypertrophy, and XAV939 alleviated these changes. Conclusions Our findings suggest that β-catenin is involved in the development of PH by promoting glycolysis and the inflammatory response in macrophages. Inhibition of β-catenin could improve the progression of PH.

The test time of impulse tunnels is short, and the heat flux transducers can be easily interfered in the test time. Thus the aerothermal test data analysis of impulse tunnels is complex and usually carried out manually, which leads to low efficiency and nonuniform standards. In this paper, the signals of heat transducers used in the 1 m gun/shock dual-mode impulse tunnel at the China Academy of Aerospace Aerodynamics were investigated. A series of key parameters, e.g., the FFT voltage profile, the correlation profile of nozzle total pressure and transducer heat flux, as well as the time derivative of the heat flux profile, were determined. The characterization capabilities of these parameters with respect to significant features, e.g., the start/end time of the nozzle flow, the time boundary of different operation modes and the effectiveness of the transducer profiles, were certified. Moreover, a profile effectiveness estimation model, a test time interval selection algorithm and a transducer valid time selection algorithm were developed based on convolutional neural networks and density-based clustering algorithms. Thereby the aerothermal test data of impulse tunnels can be analyzed automatically with these data-driven methods. The results show that the accuracy of the profile effectiveness estimation model is as high as 98%. According to the comparison between algorithm and manual results in dealing with 3 568 profiles, about 91% of the results show a difference of less than 10%, which implies that the data-driven method has the value of application to wind tunnel tests.

Objective Given the distinct physiological and societal traits between women and men, we propose that there are distinct risk factors for lumbar degenerative disc disease surgeries, including lumbar disc herniation (LDH) and lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS), in middle‐aged and older populations. However, few studies have focused on middle‐aged and older women. This study aims to identify these risk factors specifically in this population. Methods In this case–control study, the study group comprised 1202 women aged ≥ 45 years who underwent operative treatment of lumbar degenerative disc disease (LDH, n = 825; LSS, n = 377), and the control group comprised 1168 women without lumbar disease who visited a health examination clinic during the same period. The study factors included demographics (age, body mass index [BMI], smoking, labor intensity, and genetic history), female‐specific factors (menopausal status, number of deliveries, cesarean section, and simple hysterectomy), surgical history (number of abdominal surgeries, hip joint surgery, knee joint surgery, and thyroidectomy), and systemic diseases (hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, hyper‐low‐density lipoprotein cholesterolemia, hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cerebrovascular disease). Multivariate binary logistic regression analysis was used to calculate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) of associated factors. Results The risk factors for surgical treatment of LDH in middle‐aged and older women included BMI (OR = 1.603), labor intensity (OR = 1.189), genetic history (OR = 2.212), number of deliveries (OR = 1.736), simple hysterectomy (OR = 2.511), hypertriglyceridemia (OR = 1.932), and hyper‐low‐density lipoprotein cholesterolemia (OR = 2.662). For surgical treatment of LSS, the risk factors were age (OR = 1.889), BMI (OR = 1.671), genetic history (OR = 2.134), number of deliveries (OR = 2.962), simple hysterectomy (OR = 1.968), knee joint surgery (OR = 2.527), hypertriglyceridemia (OR = 1.476), hyper‐low‐density lipoprotein cholesterolemia (OR = 2.413), and diabetes (OR = 1.643). Cerebrovascular disease was a protective factor against surgery for LDH (OR = 0.267). Conclusions BMI, genetic history, number of deliveries, simple hysterectomy, hypertriglyceridemia, and hyper‐low‐density lipoprotein cholesterolemia were independent risk factors for surgical treatment of both LDH and LSS in middle‐aged and older women. Two disparities were found: labor intensity was a risk factor for LDH patients, and knee joint surgery and diabetes were risk factors for LSS patients.

Abstract Archaea possess characteristic membrane-spanning lipids that are thought to contribute to the adaptation to extreme environments. However, the biosynthesis of these lipids is poorly understood. Here, we identify a radical S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) enzyme that synthesizes glycerol monoalkyl glycerol tetraethers (GMGTs). The enzyme, which we name GMGT synthase (Gms), catalyzes the formation of a C(sp3)–C(sp3) linkage between the two isoprenoid chains of glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers (GDGTs). This conclusion is supported by heterologous expression of gene gms from a GMGT-producing species in a methanogen, as well as demonstration of in vitro activity using purified Gms enzyme. Additionally, we show that genes encoding putative Gms homologs are present in obligate anaerobic archaea and in metagenomes obtained from oxygen-deficient environments, and appear to be absent in metagenomes from oxic settings.

Abstract Heart disease is the world’s leading cause of death. Diagnostic models based on electrocardiograms (ECGs) are often limited by the scarcity of high-quality data and issues of data imbalance. To address these challenges, we propose a conditional generative adversarial network (CECG-GAN). This strategy enables the generation of samples that closely approximate the distribution of ECG data. Additionally, CECG-GAN addresses waveform jitter, slow processing speeds, and dataset imbalance issues through the integration of a transformer architecture. We evaluated this approach using two datasets: MIT-BIH and CSPC2020. The experimental results demonstrate that CECG-GAN achieves outstanding performance metrics. Notably, the percentage root mean square difference (PRD) reached 55.048, indicating a high degree of similarity between generated and actual ECG waveforms. Additionally, the Fréchet distance (FD) was approximately 1.139, the root mean square error (RMSE) registered at 0.232, and the mean absolute error (MAE) was recorded at 0.166.

Abstract Transition metal chalcogenides have been identified as low-cost and efficient electrocatalysts to promote the hydrogen evolution reaction in alkaline media. However, the identification of active sites and the underlying catalytic mechanism remain elusive. In this work, we employ operando X-ray absorption spectroscopy and near-ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to elucidate that NiS undergoes an in-situ phase transition to an intimately mixed phase of Ni3S2 and NiO, generating highly active synergistic dual sites at the Ni3S2/NiO interface. The interfacial Ni is the active site for water dissociation and OH* adsorption while the interfacial S acts as the active site for H* adsorption and H2 evolution. Accordingly, the in-situ formation of Ni3S2/NiO interfaces enables NiS electrocatalysts to achieve an overpotential of only 95 ± 8 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2. Our work highlighted that the chemistry of transition metal chalcogenides is highly dynamic, and a careful control of the working conditions may lead to the in-situ formation of catalytic species that boost their catalytic performance.

In the present study, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were synthesized via the electrodeposition method and characterized. Then, the anticancer effects of ZnO NPs against cervical cancer HeLa cells were assessed by cell viability, oxidative stress, caspase activity, qRT-PCR, MMP, and ELISA assays. XRD analysis revealed the hexagonal wurtzite phase of ZnO. SEM image of ZnO NPs showed the homogeneous spherical/hexagonal-like structures of ZnO NPs, while TEM imaging revealed the successful synthesis of ZnO NPs with an average diameter of about 8 nm. The UV–vis absorption spectrum of ZnO NPs showed a characteristic absorption band around the wavelength of 368 nm with a band gap energy (Eg) of 3.36 eV. DLS study displayed that the obtained particle size of ZnO NPs has an average size of 29.24 nm and an average zeta potential value of −19 mV. Additionally, cellular findings indicated that the proliferation of cervical cancer HeLa cells was markedly mitigated after incubation with ZnO NPs at different concentrations of 10, 50 and 100 µg/ml, however, these concentrations were not able to trigger an apparent cytotoxic effect on HUVEC non-malignant cells. Also, it was detected that ZnO NPs led to overexpression of Bax/ Bcl-2, caspase-9/-3 genes, increased level of caspase-9/-3 activity, overproduction of MDA level, inhibition of SOD and CAT activity and reduction of GSH content, MMP collapse, and upregulation of cytoplasmic cytochrome c release. In general, these findings suggested that electrodeposited synthesized ZnO NPs can induce anticancer effects in cervical cancer HeLa cells through the mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis signaling pathway.

ABSTRACT: Gut health of broiler chickens is essential for production performance. The present study aimed to evaluate the impact of dietary supplementation with potassium diformate (KDF) on growth performance and intestinal health in broiler chickens. A total of 180 Arbor Acres (AA) broiler chickens were randomly allocated into 3 treatments, with 6 replicates, containing 10 chicks in each replicate. The treatment groups were: control group (CON) was fed a basal diet; KDF-4 groups fed the basal diet with 4 g/kg KDF; KDF-8 groups fed the basal diet with 8 g/kg KDF. The experiment period lasted for 42 d. During the starter phase, the ADFI and F/G of broilers in KDF groups were lower (P < 0.05) compared to the CON group. Furthermore, the BW and ADG in KDF-4 group was improved (P

Many chemotherapies, which are still the main clinical treatment for primary tumors, will induce persistent DNA damage in non-tumor stromal cells, especially cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and activate them to secrete senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). The transition could further result in the formation of tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment and cause drug resistance of neighboring tumor cells. To solve this dilemma, a multi-functional biomimetic drug delivery system (named mPtP@Lipo) was rationally developed by combining CAFs reshaper ginsenoside 20(S)-protopanaxadiol (PPD) and cisplatin prodrug (PtLA) to inhibit tumor progression and the formation of SASP. To achieve effective delivery of these molecules deep into the desmoplastic tumor, fibroblast membrane was fused with liposomes as a targeting carrier. In vitro and in vivo results showed that mPtP@Lipo could penetrate deep into the tumor, reverse CAFs phenotype and inhibit SASP formation, which then blocked the immunosuppressive progress and thus reinforced anti-tumor immune response. The combination of chemotherapeutics and CAFs regulator could achieve both tumor inhibition and tumor immune microenvironment remodeling. In conclusion, mPtP@Lipo provides a promising strategy for the comprehensive stromal-desmoplastic tumor treatment.

Abstract Motor learning (ML), which plays a fundamental role in growth and physical rehabilitation, involves different stages of learning and memory processes through different brain regions. However, the neural mechanisms that underlie ML are not sufficiently understood. Here, a previously unreported neuronal projection from the dorsal hippocampus (dHPC) to the zona incerta (ZI) involved in the regulation of ML behaviors is identified. Using recombinant adeno‐associated virus, the projections to the ZI are surprisingly identified as originating from the dorsal dentate gyrus (DG) and CA1 subregions of the dHPC. Furthermore, projection‐specific chemogenetic and optogenetic manipulation reveals that the projections from the dorsal CA1 to the ZI play key roles in the acquisition and consolidation of ML behaviors, whereas the projections from the dorsal DG to the ZI mediate the retrieval/retention of ML behaviors. The results reveal new projections from the dorsal DG and dorsal CA1 to the ZI involved in the regulation of ML and provide insight into the stages over which this regulation occurs.

Purpose To assess the value of pretreatment neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and systemic immunoinflammatory index (SII) in the prognosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients. Methods This retrospective study analyzed a total of 185 NPC patients who visited the clinic from June 2015 to December 2018 and were selected as study subjects. The NLR and SII were calculated based on the collection of demographic information, clinical characteristics, and pre-treatment lymphocyte counts, neutrophil counts, and platelet counts. Predictive efficacy was evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, and survival analysis was performed through life table methods and Cox risk-proportional regression. Results Using the X-tile software, significant differences were found in clinical factors among NPC patients based on NLR (>2.91) and SII (>535.47). Age, TNM staging, SII, and NLR were identified as independent prognostic factors in a Cox regression analysis. SII had the highest area under the curve (AUC) for predicting 1-year survival, TNM staging had the highest AUC for predicting 3-year survival, and NLR had the highest AUC for predicting 5-year survival. The combined model showed superior predictive accuracy across all time points. Conclusion NLR and SII, as biomarkers of inflammation and immune status, have significant clinical applications in the prognostic assessment of NPC. The integrated prediction model combining age, TNM staging, SII, and NLR significantly improved the accuracy of survival prediction and provided a reliable basis for individualised treatment of NPC.

Xanthomonas spp. cause severe bacterial diseases. However, effective strategies for prevention and management of these diseases are scarce. Thus, it is necessary to improve the efficiency of control of diseases caused by Xanthomonas. In this study, Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo), which causes rice bacterial leaf blight, has been studied as a representative. A transposon insertion library of Xoo, comprising approximately 200,000 individual insertion mutants, was generated. Transposon sequencing data indicated that the mariner C9 transposase mapped at 35.7–36.4% of all potential insertion sites, revealing 491 essential genes required for the growth of Xoo in rich media. The results show that, compared to the functions of essential genes of other bacteria, the functions of some essential genes of Xoo are unknown, 25 genes might be dangerous for the Xanthomonas group, and 3 are specific to Xanthomonas. High-priority candidates for developing broad-spectrum, Xanthomonas-specific, and environment-friendly bactericides were identified in this study. In addition, this study revealed the possible targets of dioctyldiethylenetriamine using surface plasmon resonance (SPR) in combination with high performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (HPLC–MS). The study also provided references for the research of some certain bactericides with unknown anti-bacterial mode of action. In conclusion, this study urged a better understanding of Xanthomonas, provided meaningful data for the management of bacterial leaf blight, and disclosed selected targets of a novel bactericide.

This article aimed to find effective modeling methods to predict the extraction rate of safflower seed oil by subcritical CO2 extraction, and optimize its extraction process conditions. Based on single-factor experiments, Box-Behnken experimental design was adopted to study the effects of extraction pressure, separation temperature, and extraction time on the extraction rate of safflower seed oil. Response surface methodology (RSM) and artificial neural network (ANN) were used to model and analyze the same experiment. The process conditions were optimized using RSM numerical optimization, ANN, and the combination of artificial neural network and genetic algorithm (ANN-GA). The results showed that both RSM and ANN models could accurately predict the extraction rate. However, by comparing the determination coefficient (R2), mean absolute error (MAE), mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), and root mean square error (RMSE) values of the two models, it was concluded that the ANN model (R2=0.9966) had a better predictive effect than the RSM model (R2=0.9950). The optimal extraction conditions and extraction rate determined by ANN-GA were as follows: Extraction pressure of 19.04 MPa, separation temperature of 55.50 °C, extraction time of 134.98 min, and extraction rate of 23.52%. The study showed that both RSM and ANN methods could be used for modeling and optimization of subcritical CO2 extraction of safflower seed oil, but ANN had better prediction accuracy and fitting ability.

Abstract Background Numerous meta-analyses have explored the association between the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and diverse health outcomes, yet the comprehensive assessment of the scope, validity, and quality of this evidence remains incomplete. Our aim was to systematically review and synthesise existing meta-analyses of TyG index and health outcomes and to assess the quality of the evidence. Methods A thorough search of PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases was conducted from their inception through to 8 April 2024. We assessed the quality of reviews using A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) and the certainty of the evidence using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system. This study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD: 42024518587). Results Overall, a total of 95 associations from 29 meta-analyses were included, investigating associations between TyG index and 30 health outcomes. Of these, 83 (87.4%) associations were statistically significant (P

Objective: To determine the active components of Eupolyphaga sinensis Walker (Tu Bie Chong) and explore the mechanisms underlying its fracture-healing ability. Methods: A modified Einhorn method was used to develop a rat tibial fracture model. Progression of bone healing was assessed using radiological methods. Safranin O/fast green and CD31 immunohistochemical staining were performed to evaluate the growth of bone cells and angiogenesis at the fracture site. Methylthiazoletetrazolium blue and wound healing assays were used to analyze cell viability and migration. The Transwell assay was used to explore the invasion capacity of the cells. Tubule formation assays were used to assess the angiogenesis capacity of human vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs). qRT-PCR was used to evaluate the changes in gene transcription levels. Results: Tu Bie Chong fraction 3 (TF3) significantly shortened the fracture healing time in model rats. X-ray results showed that on day 14, fracture healing in the TF3 treatment group was significantly better than that in the control group (P = .0086). Tissue staining showed that cartilage growth and the number of H-shaped blood vessels at the fracture site of the TF3 treatment group were better than those of the control group. In vitro, TF3 significantly promoted the proliferation and wound healing of MC3T3-E1s and HUVECs (all P

Visual perception is vital for people’s spatial experience. Many factors correlate with visual perception including spatial size, material, color, and geometry. However, studies systematically exploring spatial size are sparse, especially with regard to the interactions between the factors of spatial size. In this study, 15 indoor virtual reality environments with five widths and three heights were used to examine the influence of spatial size on visual perception. The study adopted a preference survey as the primary data-gathering tool assessed using a factorial analysis of variance. The results revealed that the influence of width and height on peoples’ preference levels for the indoor virtual reality environments was significant. However, the preference level did not always improve with an increase in width and/or height. A certain spatial size may enhance or contradict visual perception, but changing the width and height does not always exert a significantly different effect on the preference evaluation for the virtual reality environment. This study proposes a new idea that an indoor virtual environment that can adjust its spatial size can be used as a supplement to improve the quality of a real environment.

Abstract Background Cervical cancer poses a heavy health burden in China, with the second highest incidence and mortality rate among female tumors, yet human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination rate among female university students remain remains low. This study conducted a cross-sectional survey to assess the degree of HPV vaccine hesitancy among female university students and to explore the potential association between knowledge, risk perception, trust, and HPV vaccine hesitancy. Methods A total of 1,438 female university students from four Chinese cities were recruited through stratified, multistage, cluster sampling method. The mediation model was constructed using the Bootstrap method, introducing trust and risk perception as mediating variables to examine the effect of knowledge on HPV vaccine hesitancy. Results The study found that 8.9% (95%CI:7.4%∼10.4%) of the female university students exhibited HPV vaccine hesitancy. Pearson’s correlation analysis revealed a negative association between vaccine hesitancy and knowledge, risk perception, and trust. The mediation model showed that knowledge had significant indirect effects on HPV vaccine hesitancy through trust (indirect effect: -0.224, 95% CI: -0.293 ∼ -0.167) and risk perception (indirect effect: -0.013, 95% CI: -0.033 ∼ -0.002). Conclusion HPV vaccine hesitancy among female university students has mitigated, but still needs to be addressed. In addition, trust and risk perception are mediators mediating the relationship between knowledge with HPV vaccine hesitancy. Therefore, there is a need to strengthen public health education to improve knowledge, with a particular focus on providing information about trust and risk perception to reduce HPV vaccine hesitancy.

Abstract Background This study aimed to determine the factors that contribute to the failure of bowel preparation in patients undergoing colonoscopy and to develop a risk prediction model. Methods A total of 1115 outpatients were included. Patients were randomly divided into two groups: the modeling group (669 patients) and the validation group (446 patients). In the modeling group, patients were further divided into two groups based on their success and failure in bowel preparation using the Boston Bowel Preparation Scale. A logistic regression analysis model was used to determine the risk factors of bowel preparation failure, which was subsequently visualized using an alignment diagram. Results After controlling for relevant confounders, multifactorial logistic regression results showed that age ≥ 60 years (OR = 2.246), male (OR = 2.449), body mass index ≥ 24 (OR = 2.311), smoking (OR = 2.467), chronic constipation (OR = 5.199), diabetes mellitus (OR = 5.396) and history of colorectal surgery (OR = 5.170) were influencing factors of bowel preparation failure. The area under the ROC curve was 0.732 in the modeling group and 0.713 in the validation group. According to the calibration plot, the predictive effect of the model and the actual results were in good agreement. Conclusions Age ≥ 60 years, male, body mass index ≥ 24, smoking, chronic constipation, diabetes mellitus, and history of colorectal surgery are independent risk factors for bowel preparation failure. The established prediction model has a good predictive efficacy and can be used as a simple and effective tool for screening patients at high risk for bowel preparation failure.

Shaped charge warhead is important for enhancing the damage performance of underwater weapons. This paper used finite element analysis software and based on JPC water penetration experiments to examine the influence of liner parameters (wall thickness, material), charge aspect ratio, and stand-off distance on the movement characteristics of JPC in water. The findings reveal that the head diameter of the JPC increases and experiences significant erosion after entering the water, the effective length of the JPC in water undergoes two distinct phases: a growth phase and a decrease phase, with the velocity of the JPC decaying exponentially. Increasing the liner thickness, stand-off distance and the charge aspect ratio can improve the erosion resistance and the velocity retention capacity of the JPC. The optimal ranges for liner thickness and stand-off distance are 0.0363Dk to 0.0545Dk (Dk is the charge diameter), the stand-off distance should be within 1.0Dk. After the charge aspect ratio higher than 1.25, the charge structure exerts minimal influence the movement characteristics of the JPC in water. Material density plays a crucial role in the velocity decay pattern of the JPC during penetration. JPC with higher densities exhibit superior velocity retention capabilities in water, with the velocity decay pattern converging if the densities are similar. Consequently, copper, tantalum and tungsten liners are deemed appropriate for underwater shaped charge warhead. Finally, the results will provide an important reference for the design of underwater shaped charge warhead.

Abstract Gastric cancer (GC) stage and tissue differentiation affect treatment efficacy and prognosis, highlighting the importance of understanding the risk factors that affect these parameters. Therefore, this study analyzed risk factors affecting the GC stage and differentiation and the relationships between the cancer site and the sex and age of the patient. We collected clinical data from 6961 patients with GC, including sex, age, endoscopic lesion location, and pathological differentiation. Patients were grouped based on GC stage (early or advanced), differentiation (well or poorly differentiated), and lesion site (upper stomach [cardia and fundus], middle stomach [gastric body], and lower stomach [gastric antrum]). Differences in sex, age, location, stage, and degree of differentiation were assessed based on these groupings. Univariate analysis revealed that the disease location and differentiation significantly differed based on the GC stage (P

Magnetoelectric dipoles have attracted global research attention due to its broadband, unidirectional, and high front-to-back ratio characteristics. This study implemented a co-simulation between a basic magnetoelectric dipole and its front feeding circuit through the step-by-step numerical extraction of its equivalent circuit model equipped with lumped and frequency-independent components. First, the series resonance subcircuit was derived from the series resonance point in the impedance of the magnetoelectric dipole. Second, the parallel resonance sub-circuit was achieved based on the parallel resonance point. By combining the series and parallel sub-circuits according to the sequence of their resonance frequency, the final form of the equivalent circuit for the basic magnetoelectric dipole was realized. Furthermore, to obtain the component values of the proposed circuit, a numerical fitting technique was adopted to accurately match the input impedance of the antenna and its equivalent circuit. A comparison of the circuit and antenna electromagnetic simulations showed that they agreed well with each other. Hence, the correctness and feasibility of the extraction process were verified. The overall results showed that the proposed circuit model can easily substitute for a basic magnetoelectric dipole in the implementation of antenna/circuit co-simulation in circuit simulators.

This study aims to propose a decision-making method based on artificial potential fields (APFs) and finite state machines (FSMs) in emergency conditions. This study presents a decision-making method based on APFs and FSMs for emergency conditions. By modeling the longitudinal and lateral potential energy fields of the vehicle, the driving state is identified, and the trigger conditions are provided for path planning during lane changing. In addition, this study also designed the state transition rules based on the longitudinal and lateral virtual forces. It established the vehicle decision-making model based on the finite state machine to ensure driving safety in emergency situations. To illustrate the performance of the decision-making model by considering APFs and finite state machines. The version of the model in the co-simulation platform of MATLAB and CarSim shows that the developed decision model in this study accurately generates driving behaviors of the vehicle at different time intervals. The contributions of this study are two-fold. A hierarchical vehicle state machine decision model is proposed to enhance driving safety in emergency scenarios. Mathematical models for determining the transition thresholds of lateral and longitudinal vehicle states are established based on the vehicle potential field model, leading to the formulation of transition rules between different states of autonomous vehicles (AVs).

The anthocyanins in apple leaves can indicate their growth status, and the health of apple leaves not only reveals the nutritional supply of the apple tree but also reflects the quality of the fruit. Therefore, real-time monitoring of anthocyanins in apple leaves can monitor apple growth, thereby promoting the development of the apple industry. This study utilizes ground hyperspectral imaging to estimate anthocyanins in Fuji apple leaves in the Loess Plateau through spectral transformation, feature extraction (including band selection and spectral indices construction), and regression algorithm selection, establishing models for three growth stages. The results indicate: (1) The average anthocyanins in apple leaves decrease from the Final Flowering stage to the Fruit Enlargement stage. The original hyperspectral imaging at wavelengths before 720 nm shows a decrease in reflectance as the growth stages progress, while the spectral curves after 720 nm remain largely consistent across stages; (2) Compared to single original spectral variables, multivariate estimation models using original spectra and second-order derivative transformed spectra show improved accuracy for anthocyanins estimation across different growth stages, with the most significant improvement during the Fruit Enlargement stage; (3) Although the computation of the three-band spectral indices is resource-intensive and time-consuming, it can enhance anthocyanins estimation accuracy; (4) Among all models, the CatBoost model based on original spectra and second-order derivative transformed spectra indices for the entire growth period achieved the highest accuracy, with a validation set R2 of 0.934 and a RPD of 3.888, and produced effective leaf anthocyanins inversion maps. In summary, this study achieves accurate estimation and visualization of anthocyanins in apple leaves across different growth stages, enabling rapid, accurate, and real-time monitoring of apple growth. It provides theoretical guidance and technical support for apple production and fertilization management.

With the acceleration of urbanisation and the increased utilisation of underground space, providing a comfortable and healthy environment in public underground areas has emerged as a significant research topic. This study constructs a comprehensive decision-making framework for underground space environments by integrating human perception evaluations with physical environmental parameters. Using Shanghai Wujiaochang as a case study, field data collection and questionnaire surveys were conducted to evaluate key factors such as temperature (22.63 °C–26.39 °C), wind speed (0.26 m/s–0.67 m/s), and sound levels (59.68 dB–61.21 dB) for commercial-oriented spaces, and 63.15 dB–75.45 dB for transport-oriented spaces) to users’ perceived experiences. The appropriate ranges for key parameters were identified through single-indicator fitted regression analysis and the XGBoost machine-learning model, revealing the relationship between environmental parameters and human perception. The results indicated significant differences in user needs across various functional spaces, with commercial-oriented areas emphasising environmental attractiveness and comfort, while transport-oriented spaces prioritised access efficiency and safety. This study provided quantitative design benchmarks for underground spaces’ dynamic regulation and sustainable management, proposing a precise and adaptive environmental decision-making framework that combines physical parameters with user-perception feedback.

This article aims to investigate the mechanism by which Bacillus amyloliquefaciens alleviates lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced intestinal oxidative stress. The study involved two experimental subjects: human colorectal adenocarcinoma (Caco-2) cells and Arbor Acres broiler chickens. The experiment involving two samples was designed with the same treatment groups, specifically the control (CK) group, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) group, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (JF) group, and JF+LPS group. In the Caco-2 experiment, we administered 2 μg/mL of LPS and 1 × 106 CFU/mL of JF to the LPS and JF groups, respectively. In the broiler experiment, the LPS group (19–21 d) received an abdominal injection of 0.5 mg/kg BW of LPS, whereas the JF group was fed 1 × 107 CFU/g of JF throughout the entire duration of the experiment (1–21 d). The results indicated the following: (1) JF significantly decreased the DPPH free radical clearance rate and hydrogen peroxide levels (p < 0.05). (2) JF significantly enhanced the total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH Px) activity in Caco-2 cells (p < 0.05), while concurrently reducing malondialdehyde (MDA) content (p < 0.05). (3) Compared to the CK group, JF significantly increased the mRNA expression levels of nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), SOD, catalase (CAT), GSH-Px, interleukin-4 (IL-4), interleukin-10 (IL-10), Claudin, Occludin1, zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), and mucin 2 (MUC2) in Caco-2 cells (p < 0.05), while concurrently reducing the mRNA expression of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-8 (IL-8) (p < 0.05). In comparison to the LPS group, the JF+LPS group demonstrated a significant increase in the mRNA expression of Nrf2, SOD, GSH-Px, and IL-4, as well as Occludin1, ZO-1, and MUC2 in Caco-2 cells (p < 0.05), alongside a decrease in the mRNA expression of Keap1, TNF-α, and IL-1β (p < 0.05). (4) In broiler chickens, the JF group significantly elevated the levels of T-AOC, CAT, and GSH-Px in the jejunum while reducing MDA content (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the CAT level in the JF+LPS group was significantly higher than that observed in the LPS group, and the levels of MDA, TNF-α, and IL-1β were significantly decreased (p < 0.05). (5) In comparison to the CK group, the JF group exhibited a significant increase in Nrf2 levels in the jejunum of broiler chickens (p < 0.05). Notably, the mRNA expression levels of IL-4, IL-10, Claudin, Occludin1, ZO-1, and MUC2 were reduced (p < 0.05), while the mRNA expression levels of Keap1, TNF-α, and IL-1β also showed a decrease (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the mRNA expression levels of Nrf2, Occludin1, ZO-1, and MUC2 in the JF+LPS group were significantly elevated compared to those in the LPS group (p < 0.05), whereas the mRNA expression levels of Keap1 and TNF-α were significantly diminished (p < 0.05). In summary, JF can enhance the intestinal oxidative stress response, improve antioxidant capacity and intestinal barrier function, and decrease the expression of inflammatory factors by regulating the Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathway.

Summary: Lupus nephritis (LN), a severe complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), exhibits significant heterogeneity. Recent evidence suggests that non-immune factors contribute to end-organ damage, challenging the traditional view of LN solely arising from immune dysregulation. To investigate this, we employed autoimmune-prone Gnaq+/− mice receiving intraperitoneal pristane injections. Bone marrow transfer (BMT) distinguished the roles of immune versus non-immune cells. We observed that: (1) BMT from wild-type (WT) mice to Gnaq+/− recipients resulted in severe proteinuria and diffuse proliferative nephritis after pristane exposure; (2) GNAQ knockdown increased the expression of IFI16/Ifi202b and activated the NF-κB pathway in endothelial cells; and (3) increased IFI16 expression in human kidney biopsies correlated with proliferative LN. Taken together, these findings suggest that GNAQ acts as an inflammatory regulator in kidney endothelial cells via the IFI16/NF-κB pathway, potentially linking it to the development of LN in humans.

Abstract The advancement of Zn–Se batteries has been hindered by significant challenges, such as the sluggish kinetics of Se cathodes, limited Se loading, and uncontrollable formation of Zn dendrites. In this study, a bidirectional optimization strategy is devised for both cathode and anode to bolster the performance of Zn–Se batteries. A novel bowl‐in‐ball structured carbon (BIBCs) material is synthesized to serve as a nanoreactor, in which tin‐based materials are grown and derived in situ to construct cathodes and anodes. Within the cathode, the multifunctional host material (SnSe@BIBCs) exhibits large adsorption capacity for selenium, and demonstrates supreme catalytic properties and spatially confined characteristics toward the selenium reduction reaction (SeRR). On the anode, Sn@BIBCs displays triple‐induced properties, including the zincophilic of the internal metallic Sn, the homogenized spatial electric field from the 3D spatial structure, and the curvature effect of the bowl‐shaped carbon. Collectively, these factors induce preferential nucleation of Zn, ensuring its uniform deposition. As a result, the integrated Zn–Se battery system achieves a remarkable specific capacity of up to 603 mAh g−1 and an impressive energy density of 581 W kg−1, highlighting its tremendous potential for practical applications.