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The rapid replacement of household appliances has generated a significant amount of waste appliances-derived polypropylene (WAPP), presenting a valuable resource for recycling. However, the long-term use and subsequent thermal processing of WAPP lead to its degradation, significantly impairing its toughness. Herein, syndiotactic polypropylene (sPP) as a novel toughening agent was investigated to achieve the efficient toughing of WAPP. The incorporation of 15 wt% of the sPP-based elastomer increased the impact strength of WAPP to 29.2 kJ/m2 (25 °C), which was 5.7 times that of the unmodified one and 1.9 times that modified with polyolefin elastomers (POE). This inspiring effect originates from the structural similarity between isotactic and syndiotactic polypropylene, which not only achieves a more uniform dispersion of the rubbery phase, but also creates micro voids between the phases due to the incompatibility of sPP and iPP, making it easier for shear bands to form. Further, the contradiction between rigidity and toughness is reconciled by introduction of talcum powder. This comprehensive investigation into the effects of the sPP-based toughening agent on the composite material's properties expands the potential applications of sPP and enhances our understanding of its toughening mechanisms.

Abstract Age-related hearing loss (ARHL) or presbycusis is associated with irreversible progressive damage in the inner ear, where the sound is transduced into electrical signal; but the detailed mechanism remains unclear. Here, we sought to determine the potential molecular mechanism involved in the pathogeneses of ARHL with bioinformatics methods. A single-cell transcriptome sequencing study was performed on the cochlear samples from young and aged mice. Detection of identified cell type marker allowed us to screen 18 transcriptional clusters, including myeloid cells, epithelial cells, B cells, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, T cells, inner pillar cells, neurons, inner phalangeal cells, and red blood cells. Cell-cell communications were analyzed between young and aged cochlear tissue samples by using the latest integration algorithms Cellchat. A total of 56 differentially expressed genes were screened between the two groups. Functional enrichment analysis showed these genes were mainly involved in immune, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and metabolic processes. The expression levels of crucial genes in cochlear tissues were further verified by immunohistochemistry. Overall, this study provides new theoretical support for the development of clinical therapeutic drugs.

Abstract Purpose Higher medical education has always been a major project in the fields of education and health, and therefore, the quality of education has received much attention. Learning engagement has emerged as a significant indicator of teaching quality, attracting considerable research attention. This study aims to explore the relationship between medical students’ learning engagement and their sense of school belonging, professional identity, and academic self-efficacy. Methods We conducted an online survey using convenience sampling method with 311 medical students. We employed Revised version of the Utrech Work Engagement Scale-Student (UWES-S), Chinese version of the Psychological Sense of School Membership (PSSM) scale, Academic Self-Efficacy Scale, and the questionnaire of college students’ speciality identity for evaluation. Network analysis was used to analyze the relationships among these factors. Results Medical students’ overall performance in school showed a positive trend. However, there is still room for improvement. In the network structure of learning engagement and its influencing factors, the “emotional” aspect of professional identity (EI = 1.11) was considered to be an important node with strong centrality. And “academic competence self-efficacy” aspect of academic self-efficacy (BEI = 0.72) was considered an important node with strong transitivity. Conclusion Deepening medical students’ emotional identification with their profession and enhancing their confidence in their academic abilities may improve their learning engagement and educational quality.

Abstract Background Premature coronary artery disease (PCAD) is prevailing. We aimed to investigate the evaluation value of atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) for the occurrence and severity of coronary artery lesion in PCAD patients. Methods PCAD (PACD group)/non-PCAD (control group) patients were enrolled. The coronary artery lesion degree was evaluated using Gensini score (GS). PCAD patients were allocated into the low/medium/high GS groups, with general clinical baseline data analyzed. Plasma hs-CRP/AIP levels were compared in PCAD patients with different disease degree. Correlations between plasma hs-CRP/AIP with Gensini score, independent risk factors affecting the occurrence of PCAD, and the predictive value of hs-CRP/AIP/their combination for the occurrence and degree of PCAD were evaluated by Spearman correlation analysis/Logistic multivariate regression/receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The differences in the area under the curve (AUC) were compared using MedCalc-Comparison of ROC curves. Results Plasma hs-CRP/AIP levels in the PCAD group were increased. Plasma hs-CRP/AIP levels varied significantly among PCAD patients with different disease degree. Plasma hs-CRP/AIP levels were markedly positively correlated with the Gensini score. Smoking history/homocysteine/fasting blood-glucose/hs-CRP/AIP were all independent risk factors affecting PCAD occurrence. The AUC of hs-CRP and AIP combination predicting the occurrence of PCAD was 0.950 (90.80% sensitivity/93.33% specificity). hs-CRP/AIP combination assisted in predicting the disease degree in PCAD patients. Conclusions AIP and hs-CRP are independent risk factors for the occurrence of PCAD, and their combination has high predictive value for PCAD occurrence and disease degree, which are both positively correlated with coronary artery lesion degree.

Abstract Background Associations between perceived and actual risk of HIV infection and HIV prevention services uptake are inconclusive. This study aimed to evaluate the discrepancy between the perceived and actual HIV risk, and quantify the associations between perceived and actual risk of HIV infection and three HIV prevention services utilization among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Shandong province, China. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in Shandong province in June 2021. Participants were eligible if they were born biologically male, aged 18 years or older, had negative or unknown HIV status, and had sex with men in the past year. Participants were recruited online. The discrepancy between their perceived and actual risk of HIV infection was evaluated by calculating the Kappa value. Bayesian model averaging was used to assess the associations between perceived and actual risk of HIV infection and HIV prevention services uptake. Results A total of 1136 MSM were recruited, most of them were 30 years old or younger (59.9%), single (79.5%), with at least college education level (74.7%). Most participants (97.4%) perceived that they had low risk of HIV infection, and 14.1% were assessed with high actual risk. The discrepancy between their perceived and actual risk of HIV infection was evaluated with a Kappa value of 0.076 (P

IntroductionThe co-existence of S. mutans and C. albicans is frequently detected in root caries and early child caries and is reported to be associated with recurrent caries. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of potassium iodide (KI) in combination with toluidine blue O-mediated antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) on S. mutans and C. albicans mixed-species biofilm, as well as the antibiofilm mechanisms involved.MethodsMixed-species biofilm was constructed of S. mutans and C. albicans on dentin blocks. The antibiofilm efficacy, cytotoxicity and antibiofilm mechanism of KI in combination with aPDT were determined and evaluated.ResultsKI+TBO-aPDT treatment caused reduction in microorganism counts, metabolic activity, and biofilm biomass of mixed-species biofilm without inducing cytotoxicity to hDPCs (human dental pulp cells). Observations such increased ROS (reactive oxygen species) levels, impaired cell membrane function, cell apoptosis and reduced expression in several genes seem to be artifacts of reduced growth and general killing by KI+TBO-aPDT treatment.DiscussionThese data suggested that KI in combination with aPDT as an innovative approach to combat S. mutans and C. albicans biofilm, and thus as an optional treatment for caries.

BackgroundThe cardiometabolic index (CMI) is a novel metabolic biomarker, but research on its association with osteporosis (OP) is limited. The objective of this research was to clarify the relationship between CMI and OP in the older adult population of the United States.MethodsThis study conducted a cross-sectional analysis using NHANES data 2007–2018 with exclusion of 2011–2012 and 2015–2016 cycles. Logistic regression was used to investigate the relationship between CMI and OP prevalence. Restricted cubic spline curve (RCS) and threshold saturation analyses were performed to explore the nonlinear association between CMI and OP prevalence. Subgroup analyses, sensitivity analyses, and additional analyses were conducted to ensure the robustness and reliability of the findings.ResultsThe study included 4,191 participants, revealing that those with OP had significantly lower CMI levels. Logistic regression revealed a strong inverse correlation between Log CMI and OP (OR = 0.72, 95% CI = 0.59–0.88), which persisted after adjusting for covariates. RCS analysis revealed a nonlinear inverse relationship with the critical threshold at CMI = 0.93. Below this threshold, each unit increase in CMI was associated with a 37% reduction in OP prevalence, but changes above this threshold were not significant. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the findings.ConclusionElevated CMI exhibited a robust inverse correlation with the prevalence of OP in the older adult U.S. population. Maintaining a moderate CMI significantly diminishes the risk of developing OP.

Abstract Background and Aims Various inflammatory and immune cytokines play key roles in the progression of hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐related liver cirrhosis (LC). This study explored the relationship between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in cytokines with the combined effect of polymorphisms and gender‐polymorphisms interaction and LC risk. Methods In this study, a case–control design was used, samples were selected from 45 patients with hepatitis B‐related cirrhosis and 45 age‐gender‐matched chronic HBV‐infected patients without cirrhosis attending the tumor hospital of Wuwei Academy of Medical Sciences. Fifteen SNPs were examined using a real‐time polymerase chain reaction allelic discrimination system. Logistic regression was utilized to assess cytokine‐associated SNPs and the association between SNPs and LC progression in HBV‐infected patients. Results The multivariate‐adjusted logistic model revealed that the GG/AG dominant model (OR, 16.38; 95% CI, 1.13–236.70) and G allele (OR, 5.93; 95% CI, 0.98–36.01) of rs1800896 were associated with an increased risk of cirrhosis in CHB patients. Instead, rs2227306 CT presented a reduced cirrhosis risk (OR, 0.22; 95% CI, 0.04–1.38). Rs2055979 AA/AC was negatively associated with the risk of cirrhosis, potentially reversed in males (p = 0.021). Rs1799964 CC/CT was positively related to the risk of cirrhosis but reduced the risk of cirrhosis in males (OR, 0.13; 95% CI, 0.022–0.808; p = 0.028). Both rs1799964 TT and rs1799724 CT/TT genotype showed a synergistic effect in reducing the risk of cirrhosis with rs1800896 AA (OR, 0.08; 95% CI, 0.01–1.43 and OR, 0.12; 95% CI, 0.01–2.21). Conclusion Polymorphisms rs1800896 and rs2227306 are potentially associated with the risk of cirrhosis. For the first time, the study highlights that the rs2055979 AA/AC and rs1799964 CC/CT polymorphism interact with gender and its potential reversal of cirrhosis risk in males. Furthermore, rs1800896 AA showed a synergistic effect with rs1799964 TT and rs1799724 CT/TT to prevent the progression of HBV infection to cirrhosis.

BackgroundTacrolimus is widely used to treat pediatric nephrotic range proteinuria (NRP). Diltiazem, a CYP3A4/5 inhibitor, is often administered with tacrolimus, affecting its pharmacokinetic profile. The impact of this combination on tacrolimus exposure, particularly in CYP3A5*3 genetic polymorphism, remains unclear in pediatric NRP patients. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of diltiazem on tacrolimus pharmacokinetics, focusing on the CYP3A5*3 polymorphism.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective clinical study involving pediatric NRP patients, divided into two groups: those receiving tacrolimus with diltiazem and those receiving tacrolimus alone. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to balance the baseline characteristics between the groups. We compared daily dose-adjusted trough concentrations (C0/D) of tacrolimus in both the original and PSM cohorts. The influence of diltiazem on tacrolimus C0/D, stratified by CYP3A5*3 genetic polymorphism, was assessed in a self-controlled case series study.ResultsBefore PSM, the tacrolimus C0/D in patients taking diltiazem was significantly higher compared to those with tacrolimus alone (75.84 vs. 56.86 ng/mL per mg/kg, P = 0.034). This finding persisted after PSM (75.84 vs. 46.93 ng/mL per mg/kg, P= 0.028). In the self-controlled case study, tacrolimus C0/D elevated about twofold (75.84 vs. 34.76 ng/mL per mg/kg, P < 0.001) after diltiazem administration. CYP3A5 expressers (CYP3A5*1/*1 and *1/*3) and CYP3A5 non-expressers (CYP3A5*3/*3) experienced a 1.8-fold and 1.3-fold increase in tacrolimus C0/D when combined with diltiazem, respectively.ConclusionDiltiazem significantly increased tacrolimus C0/D, with CYP3A5*3 expressers showing higher elevations than non-expressers among pediatric NRP patients. These findings highlight the importance of personalized tacrolimus therapy based on CYP3A5*3 genotypes in pediatric patients taking diltiazem.

Working memory (WM) is an essential cognitive function that underpins various higher-order cognitive processes. Improving WM capacity through targeted training interventions has emergered as a potential approach for enhancing cognitive abilities. The present study employed an 8-week regimen of computerized WM training (WMT) to investigate its effect on neuroplasticity in healthy individuals, utilizing neuroimaging data gathered both before and after the training. The key metrics assessed included the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (ALFF), voxel-based morphometry (VBM), and the spatial distribution correlations of neurotransmitter. The results indicated that post-training, compared to baseline, there was a reduction in ALFF in the medial superior frontal gyrus and an elevation in ALFF in the left middle occipital gyrus within the training group. In comparison to the control group, the training group also exhibited decreased ALFF in the anterior cingulate cortex, angular gyrus, and superior parietal lobule, along with increased ALFF in the postcentral gyrus post-training. VBM analysis revealed a significant increase in gray matter volume (GMV) in the right dorsal superior frontal gyrus after the training period, compared to the initial baseline measurement. Furthermore, the training group showed GMV increases in the dorsal superior frontal gyrus, Rolandic operculum, precentral gyrus, and postcentral gyrus when compared to the control group. In addition, significant associations were identifed between neuroimaging measurements (AFLL and VBM) and the spatial patterns of neurotransmitters such as serotonin (5-HT), dopamine (DA), and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA), providing insights into the underlying neurochemical processes. These findings clarify the neuroplastic changes caused by WMT, offering a deeper understanding of brain plasticity and highlighting the potential advantages of cognitive training interventions.

The utilization of static magnetic fields in conjunction with tissue engineering scaffolds has demonstrated significant potential in the restoration of bone defects. However, previous techniques used for fabricating magnetic tissue engineering scaffolds have shown certain shortcomings that require further investigation. In this study, a series of scaffolds made from a combination of polylactic acid (PLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), and iron tetraoxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticles were designed and prepared using the microinjection molding technique. The composite scaffolds, which were doped with nanoparticles and fabricated through microinjection, exhibited exceptional physicochemical properties and biocompatibility. Additionally, the PLA/PCL/Fe3O4 scaffolds were found to promote the proliferation and adhesion of bone marrow cells (BMSCs) under relatively low magnetic fields (25–30 mT). These findings suggest that PLA/PCL/Fe3O4 scaffolds hold great potential for use in bone tissue engineering applications.

ABSTRACTStreptococcus mutans (S. mutans) is one of the major etiological agents of dental caries. Interfering with the expression of genes associated with cariogenicity of S. mutans is an effective ecological approach for caries prevention. Thus, understanding the role of genes related to cariogenicity in S. mutans is important. dltD is a conserved gene in Gram-positive bacteria, which is involved in D-alanylation of lipoteichoic acid to modify cell surface charge. In vivo caries experiments have shown significant decreases in the caries severity in rats infected with S. mutans dltD-deficient strain. Although the impact of dltD on bacterial surface charge and division in other Gram-positive bacteria is known, its role in S. mutans biological functions remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the biological functions of dltD in S. mutans. We examined growth curves, morphology, autolysis, biofilm formation, and cell membrane properties of S. mutans wild strain and dltD-deficient strain. Our results revealed that dltD plays a key role in the growth and autolysis of S. mutans. dltD deletion increased biofilm autolysis, thereby reducing the number of viable bacteria within the biofilm. Furthermore, dltD may have an epistatic effect on cell division and surface charge. Its regulatory network needs to be further elucidated. This study shed light on therole of dltD in the growth of S. mutans, thereby enhancing our understanding of its function.

Abstract BackgroundVirtual reality (VR) group activities can act as interventions against inactivity and lack of meaningful activities in nursing homes. The acceptance of VR among older adults has been explored from different perspectives. However, research on the impact of older adults’ individual characteristics on the acceptance of VR group activities in nursing homes is necessary. ObjectiveThis study investigates the impact of individual characteristics (eg, psychosocial capacities) on VR acceptance among older adults in nursing homes, as well as this group’s perceptions of VR after participating in a VR intervention. MethodsIn this pre-post study conducted in nursing homes, we applied a VR group intervention with 113 older adult participants. These participants were categorized into two groups based on their naturalistic choice to join the intervention: a higher VR acceptance group (n=90) and a lower VR acceptance group (n=23). We compared the two groups with respect to their sociodemographic characteristics, psychosocial capacities, and attitudes toward new technologies. Additionally, we examined the participants’ perceptions of VR. ResultsThe results show that those with lower acceptance of VR initially reported higher capacities in organizing daily activities and stronger interpersonal relationships compared to older adults with higher VR acceptance. The VR group activity might hold limited significance for the latter group, but it offers the chance to activate older adults with lower proactivity. Openness to new technology was associated with a favorable perception of VR. After the VR intervention, the acceptance of VR remained high. ConclusionsThis study investigates the acceptance of VR group events as meaningful activities for older adults in nursing homes under naturalistic conditions. The results indicate that the VR group intervention effectively addressed low proactivity and interpersonal relationship issues among older adults in nursing homes. Older adults should be encouraged to experience VR if the opportunity to participate is offered, potentially facilitated by caregivers or trusted individuals.

Cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD) plays a crucial role in lignin biosynthesis, and the gene family encoding various CAD isozymes has been cloned and characterized in numerous plant species. However, limited information regarding the CAD gene family in tobacco is currently available. In this study, we identified 10 CAD genes in Nicotiana tabacum, four in N. tomentosiformis, and six in N. sylvestris. The nucleotide and amino acid sequences of these tobacco CADs demonstrate high levels of similarity, whereas the putative protein sequences conservatively possessed two Zn2+ binding motifs and an NADP(H) cofactor binding motif. Both NtCAD1 and NtCAD2 had conservative substrate binding sites, similar to those possessed by bona fide CADs, and evidence from phylogenetic analysis as well as expression profiling supported their role as bona fide CADs involved in lignin biosynthesis. NtCAD1 has two paralogous genes, NtCAD1–1 and NtCAD1–2. Enzyme activity analysis revealed that NtCAD1–1 and NtCAD1–2 had a high affinity to coniferyl aldehyde, p-coumaryl aldehyde, and sinapyl aldehyde, whereas NtCAD2 preferred coniferyl aldehyde and p-coumaryl aldehyde as substrates. The kinetic parameter assay revealed that NtCAD1–2 functions as the most efficient enzyme. Downregulation of both NtCAD1–1 and NtCAD1–2 resulted in reddish-brown stems without significant changes in lignin content. Furthermore, NtCAD1–1, NtCAD1–2, and NtCAD2 showed distinct expression patterns in response to biotic and abiotic stresses, as well as different phytohormones. Our findings suggest that NtCAD1–1 and NtCAD1–2 are involved in lignin biosynthesis, with NtCAD1–2 also participating in both biological and abiotic stresses, whereas NtCAD2 plays a distinct role mainly in responding to biological and abiotic stresses in tobacco.

This paper presents a method to enhance extended interaction oscillator (EIO) output power based on a dual-cavity parallel structure (DCPS). This stucture consists of two conventional ladder-line structures in parallel through a connecting structure, which improves the coupling efficiency between the cavities. The dual output power fusion structure employs an H-T type combiner as the output coupler, which can effectively combine the two input waves in phase to further increase the output power. The dispersion characteristics, coupling impedance, and field distribution of the DCPS are investigated through numerical and simulation calculations, and the optimal operating parameters and output structure are obtained by PIC simulation. At an operating voltage of 12.6 kV, current density of 200 A/cm2, and longitudinal magnetic field of 0.5 T, the DCPS EIO exhibits an output power exceeding 600 W at a frequency of 140.6 GHz. This represents a nearly three-fold enhancement compared with the 195 W output of the conventional ladder-line EIO structure. These findings demonstrate the significant improvement in output power and interaction efficiency achieved by the DCPS for the EIO device.

Objective This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of instant versus text messaging intervention (TMI) on antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence among men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV. Methods This study was conducted in an infectious disease hospital of Jinan, China from October 2020 to June 2021, using non-randomized concurrent controlled design to compare the effectiveness of instant messaging intervention (IMI) versus TMI. The intervention strategies (health messaging, medication reminder, and peer education) and contents were consistent between the two groups, and the difference was service delivery method and type of information. The primary outcome was the proportion of achieving optimal ART adherence, defined as never missing any doses and delayed any doses more than 1 hour. Results A total of 217 participants (including 72 in TMI group and 145 in IMI group) were included in the study. The proportion of achieving optimal adherence was higher in IMI group than TMI group at the first follow-up (90.2% versus 77.6%, p = 0.021) and second follow-up (86.5% versus 76.6%, p = 0.083). The effect of IMI versus TMI on improving ART adherence was found not to be statistically significant (risk ratio (RR) = 1.93, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.95–3.94) in complete-case analysis. However, when excluding participants who did not adhere to the interventions, a significant improvement was observed (RR = 2.77, 95%CI: 1.21–6.38). More participants in IMI group expressed highly rated satisfaction to the intervention services than those in TMI group (67.3% versus 50.0%). Conclusions The IMI demonstrated superior efficacy over TMI in improving ART adherence and satisfaction with intervention services. It is suggested that future digital health interventions targeting ART adherence should prioritize instant messaging with multimedia information in areas with Internet access. Trial registration The study was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Register (ChiCTR), with number [ChiCTR2000041282].

PurposeThis study aimed to investigate the factors associated with pathologic node-negativity (ypN0) in patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) to develop and validate an accurate prediction nomogram.MethodsThe CSBrS-012 study (2010–2020) included female patients with primary breast cancer treated with NAC followed by breast and axillary surgery in 20 hospitals across China. In the present study, 7,711 eligible patients were included, comprising 6,428 patients in the primary cohort from 15 hospitals and 1,283 patients in the external validation cohort from five hospitals. The hospitals were randomly assigned. The primary cohort was randomized at a 3:1 ratio and divided into a training set and an internal validation set. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed on the training set, after which a nomogram was constructed and validated both internally and externally.ResultsIn total, 3,560 patients (46.2%) achieved ypN0, and 1,558 patients (20.3%) achieved pathologic complete response in the breast (bpCR). A nomogram was constructed based on the clinical nodal stage before NAC (cN), ER, PR, HER2, Ki67, NAC treatment cycle, and bpCR, which were independently associated with ypN0. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) for the training set was 0.80. The internal and external validation demonstrated good discrimination, with AUCs of 0.79 and 0.76, respectively.ConclusionWe present a real-world study based on nationwide large-sample data that can be used to effectively screen for ypN0 to provide better advice for the management of residual axillary disease in breast cancer patients undergoing NAC.

Abstract Objective Several studies have demonstrated a significant association between the presence of the ear lobe crease (ELC) and cardiovascular disease. Advanced glycation end‐products (AGEs) can affect the structures and functions of proteins and contribute to the development of diabetic complications. However, few studies have reported the relationship between AGEs and ELC. The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlation of skin autofluorescence (SAF)‐AGEage (SAF‐AGEs × age/100) with ELC. Methods This cross‐sectional study enrolled 6500 eligible participants from two communities in Beijing. Skin autofluorescence (SAF) was used to measure skin AGEs (SAF‐AGEs). SAF‐AGEage was defined as AGEs × age/100. Binary logistic regression analysis and linear regression analysis nested in logistic models were applied to test outcomes. Results The overall prevalence of ELC with an average age of 62.7 years participants was 57.1% (n = 3714). Age, fasting blood glucose, systolic blood pressure, and lipoprotein cholesterol were all greater in participants with ELC. ELC‐positive participants had higher prevalence of coronary heart disease. Logistic analysis showed a significantly positive relationship between quartiles of SAF‐AGEage and ELC (odds ratio [OR] 1.526, 95% CI 1.324–1.759; OR 2.072, CI 1.791–2.396; and OR 2.983, CI 2.551–3.489) for the multivariate‐adjusted models, respectively. Stratified research revealed that those with a history of diabetes, hypertension, or coronary heart disease experienced the connection between SAF‐AGEage and ELC. Conclusion ELC is associated with coronary heart disease, and the SAF‐AGE has a potential role in ELC development in elder people.

BackgroundIn addition to illness, inactivity is a risk factor for high mortality in nursing homes. Using innovative technology, such as virtual reality (VR), for meaningful group activities could provide new opportunities for solving this problem. VR interventions have already been approved as a promising method for enhancing the health of older adults. ObjectiveIn this study, we examined whether VR-based group activities can have a positive impact on activity level and group interaction among older adults living in nursing homes. MethodsWe conducted a longitudinal study and provided VR interventions as a group activity once a week for 4 consecutive weeks in nursing homes. Participants were recruited based on the experience of the nursing staff members and the natural decisions of the older adults. Within a virtual cottage, designed according to the needs of the target group, older adults were able to perform daily tasks that they were no longer able to do in real life, such as gardening and making pizza. Overall, 2 psychologists measured the psychosocial capacities, activities of daily life, and well-being before and after the interventions using standardized instruments. ResultsThe results focus on a total of 84 older adults from 14 nursing homes who completed at least 3 VR interventions. The results indicate that several psychosocial capacities among the older adults improved, including adherence to regulations (P

Abstract Datacenter applications generate diverse flows, including deadline flows and non‐deadline flows. The deadline flows require to complete within strict deadline, while non‐deadline flows seek a shorter flow completion time. The state‐of‐the‐art deadline‐aware methods either transmit deadline flows with best‐effort at high priority, resulting in the starvation of non‐deadline flows, or blindly restrict the sending rates of deadline flows, leading to a high deadline missing ratio. To meet the different requirements of mix‐flows, a novel traffic‐aware rate control (TRC) method is proposed. TRC dynamically adjusts the sending rates of deadline flows according to their deadlines and the predicted future traffic patterns. If the intense competition is predicted among deadline flows, TRC will adopt a more aggressive manner to transmit the current deadline flows to avoid bandwidth contention in the future, reducing the deadline missing ratio. Otherwise, TRC will conservatively transmit deadline flows and complete these flows near their respective deadlines, relinquishing the excess bandwidth to non‐deadline flows. Meanwhile, TRC schedules non‐deadline flows in accordance with their sizes, minimizing the average FCT. The performance of TRC in large‐scale scenarios is evaluated through NS2 simulations. The test results show that TRC reduces the deadline missing ratio of deadline flows and the FCT of non‐deadline flows by up to 69.5% and 78.7% compared to the state‐of‐the‐art deadline‐aware schemes, respectively.

Abstract In this work, we report the monolithic three-dimensional integration (M3D) of hybrid memory architecture based on resistive random-access memory (RRAM), named M3D-LIME. The chip featured three key functional layers: the first was Si complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) for control logic; the second was computing-in-memory (CIM) layer with HfAlOx-based analog RRAM array to implement neural networks for feature extractions; the third was on-chip buffer and ternary content-addressable memory (TCAM) array for template storing and matching, based on Ta2O5-based binary RRAM and carbon nanotube field-effect transistor (CNTFET). Extensive structural analysis along with array-level electrical measurements and functional demonstrations on the CIM and TCAM arrays was performed. The M3D-LIME chip was further used to implement one-shot learning, where ~96% accuracy was achieved on the Omniglot dataset while exhibiting 18.3× higher energy efficiency than graphics processing unit (GPU). This work demonstrates the tremendous potential of M3D-LIME with RRAM-based hybrid memory architecture for future data-centric applications.

The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of prestrain-assisted friction stir processing and subsequent aging heat treatment on the microstructural evolution and performance of copper-chromium-zirconium alloys. The findings indicated that prestrain, generated through cold rolling before friction stir processing, considerably affected grain refinement and enhanced the mechanical properties and electrical conductivity in the processing zone. The prestrain not only decreased the activation energy of dynamic restoration and precipitation in the processing zone, but also strengthened the “constraint effect” of the base metals to the processing zone. This effectively reduced the width of micro-bands and promoted nanocrystalline formation in the processing zone. Furthermore, dynamic precipitation resulted in higher thermal stability of the microstructure in the processing zone during subsequent aging heat treatment. Thus, the synergistic improvement of the mechanical properties and electrical conductivity of copper-chromium-zirconium alloys was successfully achieved.

Abstract Background Perforation of the lingual cortex while placing dental implants in the interforaminal region of the mandible can cause severe hemorrhage. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the features of mandibular lingual foraminals (MLFs) and locational relationship between them and lingual mucosal vessels (LMVs) by CT/MRI fusion volumetric images. Methods 37 images within complete anterior mandibular region using both MSCT and three-dimensional volumetric interpolated breath-hold examination (3D-VIBE) MRI were taken from our imaging archives. After exclusion of 11 for lesions or artifacts, 26 CT/MRI fusion volumetric images were included to evaluate the frequency, diameter, and position of MLFs. The anterior mandibular region was divided into 4 equal segments under each teeth, and 40 regions were got from C5 to D5. Furthermore, the positional relationship between MLFs and LMVs was analyzed in this coordinate system. Results 62 MLFs (73.81%) were located below the incisors, followed by premolars (21.43%) and canines (4.76%). Female bias, the mean diameter of the female was 0.08 mm while the male was 0.21 mm. The total number of LMVs was most distributed on lingual side of C1 and D1. According to Spearman’s correlation coefficient, the location of MLFs was related to LMVs. The MLFs in fourth segment of D1 were positively moderately correlated with LMVs in fourth segment of D4, while the MLFs in third segment of C1 showed a weak positive correlation with LMVs in third segment of D4. Conclusions The features and the correlation between MLFs and LMVs in CT/MRI fusion volumetric images may offer reference to dentists when only MLFs can been seen on routine preoperative CT examination of implants. Trial registration Retrospectively registered. (D2018-072)

Abstract Bronchiolitis is the most common lower respiratory infection in infants, yet its pathobiology remains unclear. Here we present blood DNA methylation data from 625 infants hospitalized with bronchiolitis in a 17-center prospective study, and associate them with disease severity. We investigate differentially methylated CpGs (DMCs) for disease severity. We characterize the DMCs based on their association with cell and tissues types, biological pathways, and gene expression. Lastly, we also examine the relationships of severity-related DMCs with respiratory and immune traits in independent cohorts. We identify 33 DMCs associated with severity. These DMCs are differentially methylated in blood immune cells. These DMCs are also significantly enriched in multiple tissues (e.g., lung) and cells (e.g., small airway epithelial cells), and biological pathways (e.g., interleukin-1-mediated signaling). Additionally, these DMCs are associated with respiratory and immune traits (e.g., asthma, lung function, IgE levels). Our study suggests the role of DNA methylation in bronchiolitis severity.

The effect of high-temperature deformation twinning on the work hardening behaviors of Fe-38Mn alloy during hot shear-compression deformation was investigated. The discovery of micro-shear bands and deformation twinning is significant for continuous work hardening, and this represents an important step toward gaining a complete understanding of the effect of deformation twinning on work hardening behaviors. Deformation twinning is widely acknowledged to accommodate plastic strain under cold deformation, even under severe plastic deformation. At present, the equivalent stress vs. strain curves for hot shear-compression deformation of Fe-38Mn alloy exhibit the characteristics of continuous work hardening. In addition, continuous work hardening is classified into five stages when considering high-temperature deformation twinning.

Endodontic infections arise from the interactive activities of microbial communities colonizing in the intricate root canal system. The present study aims to update the latest knowledge of nanomaterials, their antimicrobial mechanisms, and their applications in endodontics. A detailed literature review of the current knowledge of nanomaterials used in endodontic applications was performed using the PubMed database. Antimicrobial nanomaterials with a small size, large specific surface area, and high chemical activity are introduced to act as irrigants, photosensitizer delivery systems, and medicaments, or to modify sealers. The application of nanomaterials in the endodontic field could enhance antimicrobial efficiency, increase dentin tubule penetration, and improve treatment outcomes. This study supports the potential of nanomaterials as a promising strategy in treating endodontic infections.

Abstract Background Acetaminophen is a commonly used medication by pregnant women and is known to cross the placenta. However, little is known about the biological mechanisms that regulate acetaminophen in the developing offspring. Cytochrome 2E1 (CYP2E1) is the primary enzyme responsible for the conversion of acetaminophen to its toxic metabolite. Ex vivo studies have shown that the CYP2E1 gene expression in human fetal liver and placenta is largely controlled by DNA methylation (DNAm) at CpG sites located in the gene body of CYP2E1 at the 5’ end. To date, no population studies have examined the association between acetaminophen metabolite and fetal DNAm of CYP2E1 at birth. Methods We utilized data from the Boston Birth Cohort (BBC) which represents an urban, low-income, racially and ethnically diverse population in Boston, Massachusetts. Acetaminophen metabolites were measured in the cord plasma of newborns enrolled in BBC between 2003 and 2013 using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. DNAm at 28 CpG sites of CYP2E1 was measured by Illumina Infinium MethylationEPIC BeadChip. We used linear regression to identify differentially methylated CpG sites and the “DiffVar” method to identify differences in methylation variation associated with the detection of acetaminophen, adjusting for cell heterogeneity and batch effects. The false discovery rate (FDR) was calculated to account for multiple comparisons. Results Among the 570 newborns included in this study, 96 (17%) had detectable acetaminophen in cord plasma. We identified 7 differentially methylated CpGs (FDR

The vigorous development of two-dimensional (2D) materials brings about numerous opportunities for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to their unique 2D layered structure, large specific surface area, outstanding mechanical and flexibility properties, etc. Modern technologies for production of 2D materials include but are not limited to mechanochemical (solid-state/liquid-phase) exfoliation, the solvothermal method and chemical vapor deposition. In this review, strategies leading to the production of 2D materials via solid-state mechanochemistry featuring traditional high energy ball-milling and Sichuan University patented pan-milling are highlighted. The mechanism involving exfoliation, edge selective carbon radical generation of the 2D materials is delineated and this is followed by detailed discussion on representative mechanochemical techniques for tailored and improved lithium-ion storage performance. In the light of the advantages of the solid-state mechanochemical method, there is great promise for the commercialization of 2D materials for the next-generation high performance LIBs.

BackgroundThe move away from investigating mental disorders as whole using sum scores to the analysis of symptom-level interactions using network analysis has provided new insights into comorbidities. The current study explored the dynamic interactions between depressive and anxiety symptoms in older Chinese adults with diabetes mellitus (DM) and identified central and bridge symptoms in the depression-anxiety network to provide potential targets for prevention and intervention for depression and anxiety.MethodsThis study used a cross-sectional design with data from the 2017–2018 wave of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS). A regularized partial correlation network for depressive and anxiety symptoms was estimated based on self-reported scales completed by 1685 older adults with DM aged 65 years or older. Depressive and anxiety symptoms were assessed using the 10-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CESD-10) and the Seven-Item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), respectively. Expected influence (EI) and bridge expected influence (BEI) indices were calculated for each symptom.ResultsAccording to cutoff scores indicating the presence of depression and anxiety, the prevalences of depression and anxiety in our sample were 52.9% and 12.8%, respectively. The comorbidity rate of depression and anxiety was 11.5%. The six edges with the strongest regularized partial correlations were between symptoms from the same disorder. “Feeling blue/depressed”, “Nervousness or anxiety”, “Uncontrollable worry”, “Trouble relaxing”, and “Worry too much” had the highest EI values. “Nervousness or anxiety” and “Everything was an effort” exhibited the highest BEI values.ConclusionCentral and bridge symptoms were highlighted in this study. Targeting these symptoms may be effective in preventing the comorbidity of depressive and anxiety symptoms and facilitate interventions in older Chinese adults with DM who are at risk for or currently have depressive and anxiety symptoms.