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Facilitation strategies play a critical role in helping instructors teach effectively in an online environment. However, there is a lack of research on how different facilitation strategies impact the online learning experience. To address this gap, our study surveyed 5980 college students from two universities in China and analysed the associations between facilitation strategies and student satisfaction using multivariate and logistic regression analyses. Our findings reveal that facilitation strategies aimed at managerial and technical purposes have different effects on student satisfaction with instructors compared to their satisfaction with their own achievement and engagement. Additionally, we found that student group discussion had a negative association with student satisfaction, potentially due to a preference for hierarchical learning in Confucian-heritage culture. In contrast, after-class learning materials were positively associated with student satisfaction. These findings offer important implications for pedagogical practices that aim to enhance the online learning experience for Chinese students on a large scale.

Building and testing a framework of interactive and indirect predictors of student satisfaction would help us understand how to improve student online learning experience. The current study proposed that external predictors such as poor technological, environmental, and pedagogical factors would be internalized as negative psychological traits and indirectly predict student satisfaction in online learning. Results of multivariate regressions with 5824 Chinese undergraduate students demonstrated that instructors' online teaching experience and communication with students had a stronger predictive effect on student satisfaction than wireless network quality and learning environment. Providing after-class reviewing materials to students or having longer self-learning time would not buffer students from negative external factors. Structural equation modeling analysis results showed that inferior technological, environmental, and pedagogical factors would be internalized into negative attitudes and emotions toward online learning and indirectly predict student satisfaction. Our study has implications for better understanding the extensive influence of online learning barriers caused by external conditions and building preventive mechanisms through the improvement of instructors' teaching experience and communication with students.

Abstract Functional capacity is an important objective health metric, and relies on the maintenance of physiological homeostasis. Autonomic nervous system is known to coordinates the maintenance of multi-organ homeostasis. The objective of this study was to examine the association of autonomic nervous system function with functional capacity in adults aged 55 years and older. A cohort of 542 adults (mean age of 70.1 years) received repeated measurements of heart rate variability, an autonomic nervous system function marker, and chair rise time, a functional capacity measure. Linear mixed models analysis showed that 1 SD lower powers in low-frequency range at baseline was associated with a 0.11 (95% CI 0.01–0.21) s/year faster increase in chair rise time during the follow-up, whereas 1 SD increase in powers in high-frequency range and 1 SD decrease in the ratio of powers in low-frequency range to powers in high-frequency range during the follow-up were associated with a 0.22 (95% CI 0.06–0.39) s and 0.17 (95% CI 0.01–0.33) s increase in chair rise time. In conclusion, autonomic nervous system function and its changes were longitudinally associated with changes in functional capacity in older adults.

Abstract High-temperature superconductivity was discovered in the pressurized nickelate La3Ni2O7 which has a unique bilayer structure and mixed valence state of nickel. The properties at ambient pressure contain crucial information of the fundamental interactions and bosons mediating superconducting pairing. Here, using X-ray absorption spectroscopy and resonant inelastic X-ray scattering, we identified that Ni 3 $${d}_{{x}^{2}-{y}^{2}}$$ d x 2 − y 2 , Ni 3 $${d}_{{z}^{2}}$$ d z 2 , and ligand oxygen 2p orbitals dominate the low-energy physics with a small charge-transfer energy. Well-defined optical-like magnetic excitations soften into quasi-static spin-density-wave ordering, evidencing the strong electronic correlation and rich magnetic properties. Based on an effective Heisenberg spin model, we extract a much stronger inter-layer effective magnetic superexchange than the intra-layer ones and propose two viable magnetic structures. Our findings emphasize that the Ni 3 $${d}_{{z}^{2}}$$ d z 2 orbital bonding within the bilayer induces novel electronic and magnetic excitations, setting the stage for further exploration of La3Ni2O7 superconductor.

AIM: To study the causal relationship between obesity-related anthropometric traits and myopia and the mediating role of educational attainment (EA). METHODS: Univariable Mendelian randomization (UVMR) was performed to evaluate the causal association between body mass index (BMI), height, waist-hip ratio (WHR, adjusted for BMI), and mean spherical equivalent (MSE). BMI was divided into fat and fat-free mass and included in multivariable Mendelian randomization (MVMR) to explore the roles of different BMI components in the causal relationship between BMI and MSE. A mediation analysis based on two-step Mendelian randomization (MR) was carried out. Specifically, UVMR was conducted to estimate the causal effect of BMI on EA. The direct effect of EA on MSE was estimated from MVMR. The mediation effect of EA in the BMI-EA-MSE model was calculated by the product of coefficients method. Expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL)-MR, reverse MR, and Linkage Disequilibrium Score Regression (LDSC) were performed to assess the robustness. RESULTS: Genetically predicted higher BMI had a positive total effect on MSE (βIVW=0.26 D, 95%CI=0.14 to 0.37 D, P

Abstract An experimental study found superconductivity in bilayer phase of La3Ni2O7, with the highest superconducting transition temperature (T c ) ∼ 80 K under pressure. Recently, some reports claimed that there exists a competitive monolayer-trilayer structural phase in La3Ni2O7 compounds. We perform the first-principles calculations and find that bilayer phase of La3Ni2O7 is energetically favorable under pressure. Although extensive studies have been done to investigate the electronic correlation and potential superconducting pairing mechanism in bilayer phase of La3Ni2O7, the phonon properties and electron-phonon coupling (EPC) in the high-pressure I4/mmm phase of La3Ni2O7 are not reported. Using the density functional theory (DFT) combined with Wannier interpolation technique, we study the phonon properties and EPC in bilayer phase of La3Ni2O7 under 29.5 GPa. Our findings reveal that EPC is insufficient to explain the observed superconducting T c ∼ 80 K. And the calculated Fermi surface nesting may explain the experimentally observed charge density wave (CDW) transition in bilayer phase of La3Ni2O7. Our calculations substantiate that bilayer phase of La3Ni2O7 is an unconventional superconductor.

Abstract Many developed and developing countries, including China, are facing the challenges of the aging population. One such challenge is the difficulty for some older adults to access nutritious hot meals to maintain their health and well-being. Community-based senior dining halls (CSDHs) providing low-cost meals for older adults are a widespread model across China and neighboring countries, which aim to cater to the dining needs of older adults within local communities. However, most CSDHs face financial difficulties due to low dining volume. Hence, understanding how built environment characteristics are associated with the dining volume can potentially increase the dining volume and financial sustainability of CSDHs in the long run. This study analyzed the association between the dining volume and both the external and internal built environment of 50 CSDHs in Guangzhou, China. By using multiple linear regression models with three different buffer sizes (400 m, 600 m, and 800 m), we found that 1) among the external built environment characteristics, floor area ratio (FAR) and distance to the nearest subway station are negatively linked to the dining volume; 2) among the internal built environment characteristics, floor level is negatively associated with dining volume, whereas availability of dine-in seating and water dispenser, and number of seats are positively associated with it. Hence, a well-designed external and internal built environment of CSDHs may increase dining volume, enhance social interaction among older adults, and support community-based senior care.

Abstract Background Balance and mobility deficits are major concerns in stroke rehabilitation. Virtual reality (VR) training and Swiss-ball training are commonly used approaches to improve balance and mobility. However, no study has compared the efficacy of VR training, Swiss-ball training, and their combination in improving balance and mobility function or investigated cortical activation and connectivity in individuals with stroke. Methods A prospective, single-blinded, parallel-armed, multi-center randomized controlled trial with factorial design will be conducted. Seventy-six participants aged 30–80 years with stroke will be recruited. Participants will be allocated to one of the four groups: (A) the VR training + Swiss-ball training + conventional physical therapy group; (B) the Swiss-ball training + conventional physical therapy group; (C) the VR training + conventional physical therapy group; or (D) the conventional physical therapy group. All participants will receive 50 min of training per day, 5 times per week, for a total of 4 weeks. The primary outcomes will be balance and mobility measures. Secondary outcomes will include the 10-min walk test, dynamic gait index, and cortical activation. Outcomes will be measured on three occasions: at baseline, after the training, and at the 4-week follow-up. Discussion This trial will provide evidence to determine whether there are differences in clinical outcomes and cortical activation following two different types of exercise programs and their combination, and to elucidate the recovery mechanisms of balance and mobility function in individuals with stroke. Trial registration Chinese Clinical Trial Registry reference: www.chictr.org.cn (No. ChiCTR2400082135). Registered on May 24, 2024.

Abstract We aimed to investigate the genomic and tumor microenvironmental (TME) profiles in non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) and explore potential predictive markers for Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) treatment response in high-risk NMIBC patients (according to European Association of Urology (EAU) risk stratification). 40 patients with high-risk NMIBC (cTis-T1N0M0) who underwent en bloc resection followed by BCG instillation were retrospectively enrolled. Surgical samples were subjected to Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) and multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) assay. Genomic profiling revealed high prevalences of alterations in TERT (55%), KDM6A (32.5%), FGFR3(30%), PIK3CA (30%), TP53(27.5%) and ARID1A (20%). TME analysis showed different proportions of macrophages, NK cells, T cells subsets in tumoral and stromal compartment. Multivariate analysis identified TERT C228T and alteration in KDM6A as two independent factors associated with inferior RFS. The study comprehensively depicted the genomic and TME profiles in NMIBC and identified potential predictive biomarkers for BCG treatment.

Purpose: Vascularized nerve grafts (VNGs) have been proposed as encouraging alternatives to conventional nerve grafting; however, there is ongoing debate regarding the clinical advantages of the approach compared with standard grafting. This review aims to gather and analyze reported cases of upper extremity nerve repair using VNGs documented in the published literature. Methods: In accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane were searched. Inclusion criteria for this review included the following: (1) human subjects or cadaveric studies, (2) describing a vascularized nerve grafting procedure or suggesting a nerve and vascular supply for a potential vascularized nerve graft, and (3) upper extremity nerve repair in clinical studies. Results: Data were extracted from 45 clinical studies. Of 535 patients, the most common injury pattern was root avulsion and rupture (88.7%). The most utilized VNG was the ulnar nerve (72.8%), followed by nerve to long head of triceps (8.8%) and sural nerve (8.2%); most common recipients were median (57.6%), axillary (12.5%), and musculocutaneous nerves (11.9%). Between patients who had medical research council scale scores, 69% had functional (M3 and above) motor and 72.7% sensory (S3

Abstract Streptococcus suis serotype 2 (SS2) is an important zoonotic pathogen that induces an NLRP3-dependent cytokine storm. NLRP3 inflammasome activation triggers not only an inflammatory response but also pyroptosis. However, the exact mechanism underlying S. suis-induced macrophage pyroptosis is not clear. Our results showed that SS2 induced the expression of pyroptosis-associated factors, including lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, propidium iodide (PI) uptake and GSDMD-N expression, as well as NLRP3 inflammasome activation and IL-1β secretion. However, GSDMD deficiency and NLRP3 inhibition using MCC950 attenuated the SS2-induced expression of pyroptosis-associated factors, suggesting that SS2 induces NLRP3-GSDMD-dependent pyroptosis. Furthermore, RACK1 knockdown also reduced the expression of pyroptosis-associated factors. In addition, RACK1 knockdown downregulated the expression of NLRP3 and Pro-IL-1β as well as the phosphorylation of P65. Surprisingly, the interaction between RACK1 and P65 was detected by co-immunoprecipitation, indicating that RACK1 induces macrophage pyroptosis by mediating the phosphorylation of P65 to promote the transcription of NLRP3 and pro-IL-1β. Similarly, NEK7 knockdown decreased the expression of pyroptosis-associated factors and ASC oligomerization. Moreover, the results of co-immunoprecipitation revealed the interaction of NEK7-RACK1-NLRP3 during SS2 infection, demonstrating that NEK7 mediates SS2-induced pyroptosis via the regulation of NLRP3 inflammasome assembly and activation. These results demonstrate the important role of RACK1 and NEK7 in SS2-induced pyroptosis. Our study provides new insight into SS2-induced cell death.

Abstract Background Intermediate cells are present in the early stages of human prostate development and adenocarcinoma. While primary cells isolated from benign human prostate tissues or tumors exhibit an intermediate phenotype in vitro, they cannot form tumors in vivo unless genetically modified. It is unclear about the stem cell properties and tumorigenicity of intermediate cells. Methods We developed a customized medium to culture primary human intermediate prostate cells, which were transplanted into male immunodeficient NCG mice to examine tumorigenicity in vivo. We treated the cells with different concentrations of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and enzalutamide in vitro and surgically castrated the mice after cell transplantation in vivo. Immunostaining, qRT-PCR, RNA sequencing, and western blotting were performed to characterize the cells in tissues and 2D and 3D cultures. Results We found intermediate cells expressing AR+PSA+CK8+CK5+ in the luminal compartment of human prostate adenocarcinoma by immunostaining. We cultured the primary intermediate cells in vitro, which expressed luminal (AR+PSA+CK8+CK18+), basal (CK5+P63+), intermediate (IVL+), and stem cell (CK4+CK13+PSCA+SOX2+) markers. These cells resisted castration in vitro by upregulating the expression of AR, PSA, and proliferation markers KI67 and PCNA. The intermediate cells had high tumorigenicity in vivo, forming tumors in immunodeficient NCG mice in a month without any genetic modification or co-transplantation with embryonic urogenital sinus mesenchyme (UGSM) cells. We named these cells human castration-resistant intermediate prostate cancer stem cells or CriPCSCs and defined the xenograft model as patient primary cell-derived xenograft (PrDX). Human CriPCSCs resisted castration in vitro and in vivo by upregulating AR expression. Furthermore, human CriPCSCs differentiated into amplifying adenocarcinoma cells of luminal phenotype in PrDX tumors in vivo, which can dedifferentiate into CriPCSCs in vitro. Conclusions Our study identified and established methods for culturing human CriPCSCs, which had high tumorigenicity in vivo without any genetic modification or UGSM co-transplantation. Human CriPCSCs differentiated into amplifying adenocarcinoma cells of luminal phenotype in the fast-growing tumors in vivo, which hold the potential to dedifferentiate into intermediate stem cells. These cells resisted castration by upregulating AR expression. The human CriPCSC and PrDX methods hold significant potential for advancing prostate cancer research and precision medicine.

Abstract Over the past two decades, mesenchymal stem/stromal cell (MSC) therapy has made substantial strides, transitioning from experimental clinical applications to commercial products. MSC therapies hold considerable promise for treating refractory and critical conditions such as acute graft-versus-host disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Despite recent successes in clinical and commercial applications, MSC therapy still faces challenges when used as a commercial product. Current detection methods have limitations, leaving the dynamic biodistribution, persistence in injured tissues, and ultimate fate of MSCs in patients unclear. Clarifying the relationship between the pharmacokinetic characteristics of MSCs and their therapeutic effects is crucial for patient stratification and the formulation of precise therapeutic regimens. Moreover, the development of advanced imaging and tracking technologies is essential to address these clinical challenges. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the kinetic properties, key regulatory molecules, different fates, and detection methods relevant to MSCs and discusses concerns in evaluating MSC druggability from the perspective of integrating pharmacokinetics and efficacy. A better understanding of these challenges could improve MSC clinical efficacy and speed up the introduction of MSC therapy products to the market.

Abstract The aim is to investigate the evidence for shared genetic architecture between each of asthma, allergic rhinitis and eczema with gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD). Structural equation models (SEM) and polygenic risk score (PRS) analyses are applied to three Swedish twin cohorts (n = 46,582) and reveal a modest genetic correlation between GERD and asthma of 0.18 and bidirectional PRS and phenotypic associations ranging between OR 1.09-1.14 and no correlations for eczema and allergic rhinitis. Linkage disequilibrium score regression is applied to summary statistics of recently published GERD and asthma/allergic disease genome wide association studies and reveals a genetic correlation of 0.48 for asthma and GERD, and Genomic SEM supports a single latent factor. A gene-/gene-set analysis using MAGMA reveals six pleiotropic genes (two at 12q13.2) associated with asthma and GERD. This study provides evidence that there is a common genetic architecture unique to asthma and GERD that may explain comorbidity and requires further investigation.

Abstract We take the Dyson–Schwinger Equation approach of QCD for the quark propagator at complex chemical potential to study the QCD phase transition. The phase transition line of the $$(2+1)$$ ( 2 + 1 ) -flavor QCD matter in the imaginary chemical potential region is computed via a simplified truncation scheme, whose curvature is found to be consistent with the one at real chemical potential. Moreover, the computation in the complex chemical potential plane allows us to determine the location of the Lee–Yang edge singularities. We show explicitly that the critical end point coincides with the Lee–Yang edge singularities on the real $$\mu _{B} $$ μ B axis. We also investigate the scaling behavior of the singularities and discuss the possibility of extrapolating the CEP from a certain range of chemical potential.

Hirschsprung's disease (HSCR) is a congenital disorder characterized by the absence of ganglion cells in the colon, leading to various intestinal complications. The etiology of HSCR stems from complex genetic and environmental interactions, of which the intricate roles of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are a key area of research. However, the roles of ncRNAs in the pathogenesis of HSCR have not been fully elucidated. In order to understand the variety of symptoms caused by HSCR and develop new therapeutic approaches, it is essential to understand the underlying biological genetic basis of HSCR. This review presents a comprehensive overview of the current understanding regarding the involvement of ncRNAs in HSCR, including microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs). Additionally, it provides a summary of the molecular mechanisms through which ncRNAs regulate the expression of genes related to the proliferation, migration, and differentiation of intestinal neural crest cells, thereby contributing to the advancement of HSCR research.

Background: College is a critical life stage for alcohol-related harms to others (AHTOs), gender, and sexual identity. We tested associations between inclusively-defined gender and sexual identities (separately) and AHTOs among college students. Methods: The Healthy Minds Study (n = 8,308) provided data about three AHTOs: (1) babysitting a drunk student, (2) alcohol-related unwanted sexual advance, and (3) alcohol-related sexual assault. Independent variables included gender and sexual identity. Results: One in four students (25.5%) reported babysitting, 6.2% reported unwanted advances, and 1.2% reported sexual assaults. Compared to cisgender males, cisgender females had higher odds of reporting babysitting (aOR = 1.36, p < 0.001) and unwanted advances (aOR = 2.59, p < 0.001); trans masculine students had higher odds of reporting sexual assaults (aOR = 4.49, p = 0.04). Conclusions: AHTOs are prevalent on college campuses, and cisgender female and trans masculine students have higher odds of experiencing them. Alcohol interventions may protect cisgender female and gender minority students from the drinkers around them.

Two essential questions for those leading the field of public administration are: What do we teach our students, and how do we train them? As scholars, we pay significant attention to our research, often to the detriment of recognizing the potential for merging our research with teaching through the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL). However, given our students' leadership positions, SoTL-related work is vital to their success. In this article, we have come together to reflect on the state of SoTL's work in public administration. Through this reflection, we explore the windows of opportunity for research that we see emerging. Included among these opportunities is the need for research on how we can best serve students in and out of the classroom, as well as research the most effective way of managing our programs. We also see the need for research into faculty development, instructional design, and the return on investment for a public administration degree. Lastly, we argue for improved recognition of the value and contribution of SoTL-related work in tenure and promotion standards.

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive subtype of breast cancer, characterised by a short survival period, high malignancy, strong invasiveness, and high rates of recurrence and metastasis. Due to its unique molecular phenotype, TNBC is insensitive to endocrine therapy or molecular targeted therapy. The conventional treatment approach involves systemic chemotherapy for overall management; however, adjuvant chemotherapy after surgery has shown poor efficacy as residual lesions can easily lead to tumour recurrence. Therefore, there is an urgent need to find more effective treatment strategies. Herein, we designed a gold nanocluster coated with a metal-phenol formaldehyde network structure (AuNCs@PDA-Mn) for tumour Photothermal therapy and chemodynamic therapy (PTT and CDT), which induces systemic immune responses to suppress tumour metastasis. Experimental results show that after continuous irradiation for 10 min under an 808 nm laser (1.0W/cm2), AuNCs@PDA-Mn not only exhibits better tumour inhibition both in vitro and in vivo but also triggers stronger immune effects systemically. Therefore, this combined PTT and CDT treatment approach has great potential and provides a clinically relevant and valuable option for triple-negative breast cancer.

Background Central precocious puberty (CPP) is a common endocrine disease in children, which shows an increasing trend year by year in recent years. It can be divided into fast-progressing central precocious puberty (RP-CPP) and slow-progressing central precocious puberty (SP-CPP) through pubertal development. RP-CPP has great harm, but it is difficult to distinguish it from SP-CPP in early clinical stage, mainly relying on the progress of adolescent development and bone age during follow-up. At present, there is a lack of effective laboratory indicators to predict RP-CPP. Objective To investigate the relationship between luteinizing hormone (LH) /follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) ratio and pubertal development. Methods CPP girls aged 4-10 years old (n=380) admitted to the Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University from January 2020 to May 2022 were regression selected and divided into RP-CPP group (n=130) and SP-CPP group (n=250 cases) according to indicators such as puberal development process. Clinical characteristics of the two groups were compared and analyzed. Univariate and multivariate Logistic regression analysis of the influencing factors of RP-CPP was performed, and ROC curve of LH/FSH ratio on the predictive value of RP-CPP was drawn. Results The height, weight, BMI, IGF-1, difference between bone age and actual age, bilateral ovarian volume, LH base value, estradiol level, LH base value /FSH base value, and LH peak /FSH peak value of girls in RP-CPP group were all higher than those in SP-CPP group, with statistical significance (P

Background: The incidence of pediatric hospitalizations has significantly increased since the spread of the omicron variant of COVID-19. Changes of characteristics in respiratory and neurological symptoms have been reported. We performed a retrospective, cross-sectional study to characterize the MRI change in children with an emphasis on the change of cerebral vasculatures. Methods: We retrospectively collected clinical and MRI data of 31 pediatric patients with neurological symptoms during the acute infection and abnormalities on MRI during the outbreak of omicron variant from April 2022 to June 2022 in Taiwan. The clinical manifestations and MRI abnormalities were collected and proportion of patients with vascular abnormalities was calculated. Results: Among 31 pediatric patients with post-COVID-19 neurological symptoms, MRI abnormalities were observed in 15 (48.4%), predominantly encephalitis/encephalopathy (73.3%). Notable MRI findings included focal diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) hyperintensity in cerebral cortex and thalamus, diffuse cortical T2/DWI hyperintensity, and lesions in the medulla, pons, cerebellum, and splenium of corpus callosum. Vascular abnormalities were seen in 12 (80%) patients with MRI abnormalities, mainly affecting the middle cerebral arteries. The spectrum of neurological manifestations ranged from seizures to Alice in Wonderland syndrome, underscoring the diverse impact of COVID-19 on pediatric patients. Conclusion: A high proportion of vascular abnormalities was observed in pediatric patients with neurological involvements, suggesting that vascular involvement is an important mechanism of neurological manifestations in omicron variant infection.

Abstract High myopia (HM) is a leading cause of blindness worldwide with currently no effective interventions available. A major hurdle lies in its often isolated perception as a purely ocular morbidity, disregarding potential systemic implications. Recent evidence suggests the existence of a gut-eye axis; however, the role of gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of HM remains largely unexplored. Herein, we provide a potential crosstalk among HM’s gut dysbiosis, microbial metabolites, and scleral remodeling. Utilizing 16S rRNA gene sequencing, we observed an altered gut microbiota profile in HM patients with a significant reduction in probiotic abundance compared with healthy controls. Subsequent targeted metabolic profiling revealed a notable decrease in plasma levels of the gut microbiota-derived metabolite indole-3-acetic acid (3-IAA) among HM patients, which is closely associated with the reduced probiotics, both negatively correlated with HM severity. Genetic analyses determined that gut microbiota are causally associated with myopia risk. Importantly, when mice subjected to HM modeling receive fecal microbiota transplantation from healthy donors, there is an increase in 3-IAA plasma levels and simultaneous retardation of HM progression along with better maintenance of collagen type I alpha 1 (COL1A1) expression in the sclera. Furthermore, 3-IAA gavage achieves similar effects. Mechanistic investigations confirm the transcriptional activation of COL1A1 by 3-IAA via promoting the enrichment of SP1 to its promoter. Together, our findings provide novel insights into the gut microbiota-eye axis in the pathogenesis of HM and propose new strategies for HM intervention by remodeling the gut microbiota and indole supplementation.

Abstract The discovery of superconductivity with a critical temperature of about 80 K in La3Ni2O7 single crystals under pressure has received enormous attention. La3Ni2O7 is not superconducting under ambient pressure but exhibits a transition at T ∗ ≃ 115 K. Understanding the electronic correlations and charge dynamics is an important step towards the origin of superconductivity and other instabilities. Here, our optical study shows that La3Ni2O7 features strong electronic correlations which significantly reduce the electron’s kinetic energy and place this system in the proximity of the Mott phase. The low-frequency optical conductivity reveals two Drude components arising from multiple bands at the Fermi level. The transition at T ∗ removes the Drude component exhibiting non-Fermi liquid behavior, whereas the one with Fermi-liquid behavior is barely affected. These observations in combination with theoretical results suggest that the Fermi surface dominated by the Ni- $${d}_{3{z}^{2}-{r}^{2}}$$ d 3 z 2 − r 2 orbital is removed due to the transition at T ∗. Our experimental results provide pivotal information for understanding the transition at T ∗ and superconductivity in La3Ni2O7.

Abstract Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), recognized as advanced catalyst carriers due to their adjustable porous, diverse structure and highly exposed active sites, have earned increasing attention for their potential to address the longevity of catalytic centers. In this manuscript, we have devised and synthesized a multifunctional amino-pyridine benzoic acid (APBA) ligand to replace the modulator ligand of the MOF-808 and disperse the palladium catalytic centers atomically on the MOF-APBA. The resulting single-site catalytic system, Pd@MOF-APBA, demonstrates preeminent efficiency and stability, as evidenced by a high average turnover number (95000) and a low metal residue (4.8 ppm) in the Heck reaction. This catalyst has exhibited recyclability for multiple runs without significant loss of reactivity for gram-scale reactions. The catalyst’s high activity and efficiency can be attributed to the suitable electrical properties and structures of the N, N’-bidentate ligand for the catalytic palladium ions, postponing their deactivations, including leaching and agglomeration.

Abstract Background Sclerotinia sclerotiorum is a highly destructive phytopathogenic fungus that poses a significant threat to a wide array of crops. The current constraints in genetic manipulation techniques impede a thorough comprehension of its pathogenic mechanisms and the development of effective control strategies. Results Herein, we present a highly efficient genetic transformation system for S. sclerotiorum, leveraging the use of fusiform nanoparticles, which are synthesized with FeCl3 and 2,6-diaminopyrimidine (DAP). These nanoparticles, with an average longitude length of 59.00 nm and a positively charged surface, facilitate the direct delivery of exogenous DNA into the mycelial cells of S. sclerotiorum, as well as successful integration with stable expression. Notably, this system circumvents fungal protoplast preparation and tedious recovery processes, streamlining the transformation process considerably. Furthermore, we successfully employed this system to generate S. sclerotiorum strains with silenced oxaloacetate acetylhydrolase-encoding gene Ss-oah1. Conclusions Our findings demonstrate the feasibility of using nanoparticle-mediated delivery as a rapid and reliable tool for genetic modification in S. sclerotiorum. Given its simplicity and high efficiency, it has the potential to significantly propel genetic research in filamentous fungi, offering new avenues for elucidating the intricacies of pathogenicity and developing innovative disease management strategies. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Accurate fluorescence imaging of nanocarriers in vivo remains a challenge owing to interference derived mainly from biological tissues and free probes. To address both issues, the current study explored fluorophores in the near-infrared (NIR)-II window with aggregation-caused quenching (ACQ) properties to improve imaging accuracy. Candidate fluorophores with NIR-II emission, ACQ984 (λ em = 984 nm) and IR-1060 (λ em = 1060 nm), from the aza-BODIPY and cyanine families, respectively, were compared with the commercial fluorophore ICG with NIR-II tail emission and the NIR-I fluorophore P2 from the aza-BODIPY family. ACQ984 demonstrates high water sensitivity with complete fluorescence quenching at a water fraction greater than 50%. Physically embedding the fluorophores illuminates various nanocarriers, while free fluorophores cause negligible interference owing to the ACQ effect. Imaging based on ACQ984 revealed fine structures in the vascular system at high resolution. Moreover, good in vivo and ex vivo correlations in the monitoring of blood nanocarriers can be established, enabling real-time noninvasive in situ investigation of blood pharmacokinetics and dynamic distribution in various tissues. IR-1060 also has a good ACQ effect, but the lack of sufficient photostability and steady post-labeling fluorescence undermines its potential for nanocarrier bioimaging. P2 has an excellent ACQ effect, but its NIR-I emission only provides nondiscriminative ambiguous images. The failure of the non-ACQ probe ICG to display the biodistribution details serves as counterevidence for the improved imaging accuracy by NIR-II ACQ probes. Taken together, it is concluded that fluorescence imaging of nanocarriers based on NIR-II ACQ probes enables accurate in vivo bioimaging and real-time in situ pharmacokinetic analysis.

Abstract Background Previous studies have shown that physical activity (PA) and leisure sedentary behaviors (LSB, including leisure television watching) are linked to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, the associations between PA/LSB and GERD remain controversial. In this study, we aimed to reveal whether these associations reflect causal relationships and reveal the potential mechanisms of these relationships using bidirectional and two-step Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses. Methods We obtained genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary statistics for PA/LSB, four common risk factors (including cigarettes smoked per day, alcoholic drinks per week, triglycerides, total cholesterol) and GERD from published GWASs. A bidirectional MR analysis was performed to identify causal relationships between PA/LSB and GERD. Then, a series of sensitivity analyses were performed to verify the robustness of the results. Finally, a mediation analysis via two-step MR was conducted to investigate any effects explained by common risk factors in these relationships. Results Genetically predicted per 1-SD increase in leisure time television watching significantly increased the risk of GERD in the bidirectional MR analysis (OR = 1.33; 95% CI: 1.14–1.56; P = 2.71 × 10− 4). Sensitivity analyses successfully verified the robustness of the causal relationship. Further mediation analysis showed that this effect was partly mediated by increasing cigarettes smoked per day, with mediated proportions of 18.37% (95% CI: 11.94-39.79%). Conclusion Our findings revealed a causal relationship between leisure television watching and an increased risk of GERD, notably, the causal effect was partially mediated by cigarettes smoked per day. These findings may inform prevention and management strategies directed toward GERD.

Background: Human parainfluenza viruses (HPIVs) commonly cause childhood respiratory illness requiring hospitalization in Taiwan. This study aimed to investigate clinical severity and identify risk factors predisposing to severe disease in hospitalized children with HPIV infection. Methods: We included hospitalized patients with lab-confirmed HPIV infection from 2007 to 2018 and collected their demographic and clinical characteristics. Patients with ventilator support, intravenous inotropic agents, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation were defined as severe cases. Results: There were 554 children hospitalized for HPIV infection. The median age was 1.2 years; 518 patients had non-severe HPIV infection, whereas 36 patients (6.5%) had severe HPIV infection. 266 (48%) patients had underlying diseases, and 190 patients (34.3%) had bacterial co-detection. Children with severe HPIV infection were more likely to have bacterial co-detection than those without (52.8% vs 33.0%, p = 0.02). Patients with lung patch or consolidation had more invasive bacterial co-infection or co-detection than those without patch or consolidation (43% vs 33%, p = 0.06). Patients with neurological disease (adjusted OR 4.77, 95% CI 1.94–11.68), lung consolidation/patch (adjusted OR 6.64, 95% CI 2.80–15.75), and effusion (adjusted OR 11.59, 95% CI 1.52–88.36) had significantly higher risk to have severe HPIV infection. Conclusion: Neurological disease and lung consolidation/patch or effusion were the most significant predictors of severe HPIV infection.

Introduction: COVID-19 poses risks and leads to complications for vulnerable populations, including children. Unreported cases of COVID-19 among children hinder our understanding of the true disease burden. In this study, we aimed to investigate the proportion of children who report no prior infection to SARS-CoV-2 but who nevertheless exhibit serological evidence of prior infection. Methods: Between November 2022 and February 2023, we recruited children and adolescents under 19 years of age who lacked a prior history of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Participants underwent SARS-CoV-2 antibody testing to assess the presence of IgG antibodies specific to nucleocapsid (N) and spike (S) proteins. Demographic and contact information were also collected. Results: Among 260 COVID-19-free children, the overall anti-N antibody positivity rate, which varied across age groups (4%–25%), was 9.2% (24/260). Contact with individuals who were positive for COVID-19, particularly the children's mothers, significantly increased the likelihood of antibody positivity. The median age of the 34 children who remained unvaccinated against COVID-19 was lower than that of the children who were vaccinated (6.5 vs. 9 years; p

Background: High myopia is one of the major causes of visual impairment and has an ever-increasing prevalence, especially in East Asia. It is characterized by excessive axial elongation, leading to various blinding complications that extend beyond mere refractive errors and persist immovably after refractive surgery, presenting substantial public health challenge. Main text: High myopia-related complications include lens pathologies, atrophic and tractional maculopathy, choroidal neovascularization, peripheral retinal degenerations and retinal detachment, and glaucoma and heightened susceptibility to intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation. Pathological lens changes characteristic of high myopia include early cataractogenesis, overgrowth of lens, weakened zonules, and postoperative capsular contraction syndrome, possibly driven by inflammatory pathogenesis, etc. Dome-shaped macula and cilioretinal arteries are two newly identified protective factors for central vision of highly myopic patients. These patients also face risks of open-angle glaucoma and IOP spike following intraocular surgery. Morphologic alternations of optic nerve in high myopia can complicate early glaucoma detection, necessitating comprehensive examinations and close follow-up. Anatomically, thinner trabecular meshwork increases this risk; conversely lamina cribrosa defects may offer a fluid outlet, potentially mitigating the pressure. Notably, anxiety has emerged as the first recognized extra-ocular complication in high myopia, with an underlying inflammatory pathogenesis that connects visual stimulus, blood and brain. Conclusions: High myopia induces multiple ocular and potential mental health complications, underscoring the need to develop more effective strategies to improve both physical and emotional well-being of these patients, among which anti-inflammation might possibly represent a promising new target.

Aging behavior and phase transformation of Al–5Zn–1Mg–1Cu(-Si) alloys under different isothermal temperatures were investigated using transmission electron microscope (TEM) and mechanical tests. The aging temperature and Si addition significantly influenced to the types of precipitated phases and mechanical properties of the Al–Zn–Mg–Cu alloys. Adding Si in this alloy changed the precipitated phases from T′ and η′ phases to the dual-sized η and GPB-II phases. With increasing isothermal aging temperature, more GPB-II phases formed in alloys with the same composition, effectively improving the microhardness and mechanical properties. When aging at 150 °C, 0.5 wt%Si-containing alloy reached the highest peak hardness of about 150HV and maintained stable hardness, while an alloy without Si only reached 120HV and later declined by 15HV. The tensile strength and yield strength of the 0.5 wt%Si-containing alloy were higher than those of non-Si alloy by 132 MPa and 165 MPa, increasing 51% and 90%, respectively. This result was due to the presence of fine and dispersed 4–8 nm GPB-II phases in 0.5 wt%Si-containing alloy. The GPB-II phase had a core-shell structure, with the core region mainly enriched in Mg and Si, and the shell region mainly enriched in Cu and Zn. Compared with the stability of T′ and η′ phases, this core-shell structure of GPB-II effectively inhibited its growth and beneficially maintained a smaller-sized GPB-II phase. The strengthening effect of GPB-II phase was better than that of η or T phases when aging at 150 °C or 200 °C. The mechanical properties of high Zn/Mg ratios Al–Zn–Mg–Cu alloys can enhanced by adding Si.

Abstract Plant-sucking insects have intricate associations with a diverse array of microorganisms to facilitate their adaptation to specific ecological niches. The midgut of phytophagous true bugs is generally structured into four distinct compartments to accommodate their microbiota. Nevertheless, there is limited understanding regarding the origins of these gut microbiomes, the mechanisms behind microbial community assembly, and the interactions between gut microbiomes and their insect hosts. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive survey of microbial communities within the midgut compartments of a bean bug Riptortus pedestris, soybean plant, and bulk soil across 12 distinct geographical fields in China, utilizing high-throughput sequencing of the 16 S rRNA gene. Our findings illuminated that gut microbiota of the plant-sucking insects predominantly originated from the surrounding soil environment, and plants also play a subordinate role in mediating microbial acquisition for the insects. Furthermore, our investigation suggested that the composition of the insect gut microbiome was probably shaped by host selection and/or microbe-microbe interactions at the gut compartment level, with marginal influence from soil and geographical factors. Additionally, we had unveiled a noteworthy dynamic in the acquisition of core bacterial taxa, particularly Burkholderia, which were initially sourced from the environment and subsequently enriched within the insect midgut compartments. This bacterial enrichment played a significant role in enhancing insect host reproduction. These findings contribute to our evolving understanding of microbiomes within the insect-plant-soil ecosystem, shedding additional light on the intricate interactions between insects and their microbiomes that underpin the ecological significance of microbial partnerships in host adaptation.

Abstract Protein phosphorylation plays an important role in immune signaling transduction in plant resistance to pathogens. Wheat stripe rust, caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst), severely devastates wheat production. Nonetheless, the molecular mechanism of wheat resistance to stripe rust remains limited. In this study, quantitative phosphoproteomics was employed to investigate the protein phosphorylation changes in wheat challenged by Pst. A total of 1537 and 2470 differentially accumulated phosphoproteins (DAPs) were identified from four early infection stage (6, 12, 18 and 24 h post-inoculation) in incompatible and compatible wheat-Pst interactions respectively. KEGG analysis revealed that Oxidative Phosphorylation, Phosphatidylinositol Signaling, and MAPK signaling processes are distinctively enriched in incompatible interaction, while Biosynthesis of secondary metabolites and RNA degradation process were significantly enriched in compatible interactions. In particular, abundant changes in phosphorylation levels of chloroplast proteins were identified, suggesting the regulatory role of photosynthesis in wheat-Pst interaction, which is further emphasized by protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis. Motif-x analysis identified [xxxxSPxxxx] motif, likely phosphorylation sites for defensive response-related kinases, and a new [xxxxSSxxxx] motif significantly enriched in incompatible interaction. The results shed light on the early phosphorylation events contributing to wheat resistance against Pst. Moreover, our study demonstrated that the phosphorylation levels of Nucleoside diphosphate kinase TaNAPK1 are upregulated at 12 hpi with CYR23 and at 24 hpi with CYR31. Transient silencing of TaNAPK1 was able to attenuate wheat resistance to CYR23 and CYR31. Our study provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying Pst-wheat interactions and may provide database to find potential targets for the development of new resistant varieties.

Abstract Many historic buildings are at serious risk of deterioration due to changes in the moisture content of the soil under the buildings. Based on the typical deterioration problems of the Grand Deliverance Hall and the cultural relics in the hall, this study analyzes and concludes that the main factor affecting the generation and development of deterioration is groundwater erosion through environmental monitoring and geotechnical engineering investigation. The impact of changes in moisture content on the water-holding properties and pore distribution of the soil under the cultural-relics buildings was further assessed. Then, combined with the soil property, our study provides a novel and effective way to monitor and reflect the water-holding properties of the soil using electrochemical detection. The connected pore resistance and matrix suction decrease with the increase in the moisture content, both showing a power function law. Changes in moisture content cause changes in the thickness of the double electric layer, which in turn affects the connected pore resistance and matrix suction of soil. The greater the connected pore resistance, the greater the matrix suction and the water holding capacity. Finally, based on the research of this study and the conservation ideology of cultural relics that respects the original and minimizes intervention, protection recommendations to prevent groundwater erosion are proposed in order to provide guidance for future research. Graphical Abstract

This paper attempts to explore the feasibility of using cholesteric liquid crystals (CLCs) for reflective displays in active matrix (AM) driving. The study focuses on reverse mode polymer-stabilized cholesteric liquid crystals (PSCLCs) to overcome the inherent bistability of CLCs and achieve faster response times for switching between bright and dark states. Key parameters such as cell gap, monomer concentration, polymerization temperature, and different monomer types and liquid crystal hosts are systematically investigated to optimize the electro-optical properties of the liquid crystals for active matrix driving. The research demonstrates that PSCLCs can operate within a 15 V driving voltage range while maintaining a good bright-dark state contrast ratio (>10) and a response time of less than 42 ms. This suggests significant potential for their application in dynamic reflective display technologies.