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Abstract Background We aimed to evaluate microaneurysms (MAs) after treatment with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy to understand causes of chronic edema and anti-VEGF resistance. Methods Patients with non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy, with or without macular edema were recruited. Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) MAs-related parameters were observed, including the maximum diameter of overall dimensions, material presence, and flow signal within the lumen. OCTA parameters also included central macular thickness (CMT), foveal avascular zone, superficial and deep capillary plexuses, and non-flow area measurements on the superficial retinal slab. Results Overall, 48 eyes from 43 patients were evaluated. CMT differed significantly between the diabetic macular edema (DME ) and non-DME (NDME) groups at 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 6th months of follow-up (P

Abstract Background Rapid sequence intubation (RSI) have been shown to be effective in preventing reflux aspiration in patients with a full stomach during anaesthesia induction and endotracheal intubation. However, there is currently no standardized operation protocol or anaesthesia induction drug standard for RSI. Furthermore, there is a lack of evidence regarding the use of RSI in patients older than 65. In this study, we aimed to investigate the cardiovascular effects of different doses of alfentanil combined with propofol and etomidate during RSI in elderly patients aged 65–80 years. Methods A total of 96 patients aged 65–80 years who underwent general anaesthesia with tracheal intubation were selected for this study. The patients were randomly assigned to one of four groups using a random number table. Group A patients received an induction dose of 10 µg/kg alfentanil, group B patients received 15 µg/kg alfentanil, group C patients received 20 µg/kg alfentanil, and group D patients received 25 µg/kg alfentanil. Heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP), cardiac index (CI), and ejection fraction (EF) were measured at three time points: 5 min before anaesthesia induction (T0), 1 min after endotracheal intubation (T1), and 5 min after endotracheal intubation (T2). Concurrently, 4 ml of arterial blood was collected from patients at three time points, and the concentrations of norepinephrine (NE) and cortisol (Cor) in plasma were detected. Occurrences of hypertension, hypotension, bradycardia and tachycardia during anesthesia induction to 5 min after tracheal intubation were noted. Results Compared with T0, the HR, MAP, NE and Cor concentrations in group A and group B were increased at the T1 and T2 time points, CI and EF values were decreased (P 0.05). Additionally, they were not significant in group D at the T1 time point (P > 0.05), but decreased at the T2 time point (P

Abstract Background Prior studies have indicated team members’ interaction behaviors may predict creativity among nursing students. Methods This study investigated the correlation between interaction behaviors and creativity, both individual- and team-level, among nursing students. In this cross-sectional quantitative study, data were obtained from self-reported questionnaires. Individual creativity was assessed using the Torrance Tests of Creative Thinking scale; the perceived team interaction behavior and team creativity were assessed using validated instruments. Canonical correlation analysis was conducted to determine the overall correlation between interaction behaviors, and creativity, and the moderating effect of female proportion dominance was also examined. Results A total of 164 nursing students (84.1% female) arranged into 14 teams were included in this study. Canonical correlation analysis showed a positive correlation between interaction behaviors and creativity (correlation = 0.88). All dimensions of interactive behaviors were positively related to creativity dimensions. A stronger correlation to team creativity (correlation = 1) was found compared to individual creativity (correlation = 0.07). This study demonstrated that individual interactive behaviors including spontaneous communication and helping behavior predicted high team creativity. Conclusions This insight may be valuable for nursing education programs seeking to foster creativity and effective teamwork. The potential moderating effect of female proportions on team interaction behaviors and creativity should be investigated further.

Fully renewable oxygen barrier thermoplastic starch (TPS)/sugar alcohol blown films were innovatively prepared by blending proper loadings of Erythritol (ET), Sorbitol (ST), and Lactitol (LT) and supercritical carbon dioxide (scC[O.sub.2]) assistance. The oxygen transmission rate (OTR) values of the properly prepared scC[O.sub.2]TP[S.sub.x]ETy, scC[O.sub.2]TP[S.sub.x]S[T.sub.y], and scC[O.sub.2]TP[S.sub.x]L[T.sub.y] films reduced to 4.3, 6.6, and 12.5 [cm.sup.3]/[m.sup.2]*day*atm, which are about 5-28 times smaller than those of the conventional TPS films reported in the literature. The free-volume-cavity characteristics (FVCC) and OTR detected for TP[S.sub.x]E[T.sub.y] (or scC[O.sub.2]TP[S.sub.x]E[T.sub.y]), TP[S.sub.x]S[T.sub.y] (or scC[O.sub.2]TP[S.sub.x]S[T.sub.y]), and TP[S.sub.x]L[T.sub.y] (or scC[O.sub.2]TP[S.sub.x]L[T.sub.y]) films diminished to a minimum, as their ET, ST and LT loadings came near an optimal value. Slightly smaller OTR and FVCC values were detected for scC[O.sub.2]TP[S.sub.x]E[T.sub.y], scC[O.sub.2]TP[S.sub.x]S[T.sub.y] and scC[O.sub.2]TP[S.sub.x]L[T.sub.y] films than those of corresponding TP[S.sub.x]E[T.sub.y], TP[S.sub.x]S[T.sub.y], and TP[S.sub.x]L[T.sub.y] films prepared without scC[O.sub.2]-assistance. The smallest OTR and FVCC detected for the properly prepared TP[S.sub.x]E[T.sub.y] (or scC[O.sub.2]TP[S.sub.x]E[T.sub.y]), TP[S.sub.x]S[T.sub.y] (or scC[O.sub.2]TP[S.sub.x]S[T.sub.y]), and TP[S.sub.x]L[T.sub.y] (or scC[O.sub.2]TP[S.sub.x]L[T.sub.y]) films diminished with decreasing sugar alcohol's molecular weight. An essential result is that the OTR of the properly prepared scC[O.sub.2]TP[S.sub.x]E[T.sub.y] film was merely 4.3 [cm.sup.3]/[m.sup.2]*day*atm, which is small enough to meet the demand of high oxygen barrier packaging application. Dynamic molecular relaxations detected for these films disclosed that ET, ST, and LT were compatible with TPS, as their loads were [less than or equal to] the optimum value. The distinctly reduced OTR and FVCC for these properly prepared films are partially attributed to the reinforced molecular interactions between sugar alcohol and TPS's hydroxyl groups when they were prepared with scC[O.sub.2]assistance, optimal sugar alcohol loading, and/or smaller sugar alcohol's molecular weight. Highlights * High oxygen barrier thermoplastic starch/sugar alcohol blown films were prepared. * The lowest oxygen transmission rate of the renewable film was 4.3 [cm.sup.3]/ [m.sup.2]*day*atm. * This oxygen transmission rate is qualified for high oxygen barrier application. * Boosted oxygen barrier property was ascribed to the reduced free volume values. KEYWORDS erythritol, free-volume-cavity characteristics, lactitol, oxygen transmission rate, scC[O.sub.2]assisted thermoplastic starch, sorbitol, 1 | INTRODUCTION The contamination problem for nonbiodegradable petroleum-derived waste plastics has turned out to be a harsh challenge to our environment for the last tens of years. (1-7) Petroleum-derived [...]

Abstract Investigating the anti‐inflammatory effects of bioactive components present in cold‐pressed rapeseed oil through the use of network pharmacology and molecular docking methods. The components of cold‐pressed rapeseed oil were identified by liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry. We then conducted Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analysis using bioinformatics databases on overlapping targets affected by active components and inflammation. Finally, molecular docking was used to predict the interactions between core components and key targets. Analysis identified 13 phenols, four steroids, and one retinoid in cold‐pressed rapeseed oil, with 143 overlapping targets related to inflammation. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that 25‐Hydroxycholesterol, Rosmarinic acid, 9‐cis‐Retinoic acid, Soyasapogenol B and α‐Tocopherol in cold‐pressed rapeseed oil could play a positive role in treating inflammation. They achieved this by regulating key targets (MMP9, EGFR, AKT1, ESR1, and PTGS2) involved in the peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor signaling pathway and other related pathways. The molecular docking binding energy of the core components and the key targets were less than −5.0 kcal/mol, indicating that the components and the targets can be stably bound. This result indicated that the active components found in cold‐pressed rapeseed oil may exert an anti‐inflammatory effect through a synergistic mechanism involving multicomponent, multitarget and multipathway interactions.

Abstract The importance of the immune microenvironment in poorly cohesive carcinoma (PCC) has been highlighted due to its limited response rate to conventional therapy and emerging treatment resistance. A combination of clinical cohorts, bioinformatics analyses, and functional/molecular experiments revealed that high infiltration of Interferon Induced Protein with Tetratricopeptide Repeats 1 (IFIT1) + tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs) is a distinguishing feature of PCC patients. Upregulation of IFIT1 + TANs promote migration and invasion of gastric cancer (GC) cell lines (MKN45 and MKN74) and stimulates the growth of cell-derived xenograft models. Besides, by promoting macrophage secreted phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1) expression and facilitating cancer-associated fibroblast and endothelial cell recruitment and activation through TANs, IFIT1 promotes a mesenchymal phenotype, which is associated with a poor prognosis. Importantly, compared to non-PCC (NPCC), PCC tumors is more immunosuppressive. Mechanistically, IFIT1 can be stimulated by IFN-γ and contributes to the expression of Programmed Cell Death 1 Ligand (PDL1) in TANs. We demonstrated in mouse models that IFIT1 + PDL1 + TANs can induce acquired resistance to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy, which may be responsible for the difficulty of PCC patients to benefit from immunotherapy. This work highlights the role of IFIT1 + TANs in mediating the remodeling of the tumor immune microenvironment and immunotherapeutic resistance and introduces IFIT1 + TANs as a promising target for precision therapy of PCC.

Drought, excessive use of nitrogen fertilizer, and decline in soil organic matter threaten corn production. This study investigated the potential of water retaining agents, inhibitors, and corn stalks in enhancing soil physicochemical properties to bolster corn yield in semi-arid farmlands. In our study, polyacrylamide addition increased the content of ammonium nitrogen (NH4+-N) and nitrate nitrogen (NO3--N) in the seedling stage, exchangeable potassium (K) in the mature stage but decreased the content of available phosphorus (P) in the seedling stage. Potassium polyacrylate addition increased the content of NH4+-N and decreased the content of available P in the seedling stage. The addition of inhibitors decreased the content of NH4+-N and available P in the seedling stage, NO3--N and available P in the jointing stage, and NH4+-N in the mature stage, respectively. Corn stalks returning could maintain soil moisture, decrease the content of NH4+-N in the seedling stage and exchangeable K in the mature stage, and increase the content of available P and exchangeable K in the seedling stage. Combined application of inhibitors and corn stalks could increase soil organic carbon (SOC) and ensure corn yield, which was the best fertilization mode in semi-arid cropland.

Since the large-scale oil exploration and development in the 1960 s, the Yellow River Delta (YRD) has undergone rapid industrialization and urbanization. Concurrently, the regional landscape ecological structure has experienced significant changes, and the degree of landscape fragmentation has increased. Therefore, a comprehensive assessment of the spatiotemporal dynamics and formation mechanisms of landscape fragmentation is crucial for the protection and restoration of natural ecosystem in the YRD. This study constructs an evaluation index system for landscape fragmentation in the YRD from three perspectives: quantitative characteristics, shape features, and spatial distribution. By combining inflection point analysis, landscape area loss index, and geostatistical models, the optimal spatial scale of landscape fragmentation from 2000 to 2020 is determined. Additionally, the study analyzes the spatiotemporal changes in landscape fragmentation and employs the optimal parameters-based geographical detector (OPGD) model to reveal the formation mechanisms of spatial heterogeneity in landscape fragmentation. The study findings are as follows: (1) The optimal spatial resolution for analyzing landscape fragmentation in the YRD was 80 m, and the extent was 880 m. (2) Between 2000 and 2020, landscape fragmentation in the YRD increased, with the highest level recorded in 2020. Highly fragmented areas, particularly inland regions, expanded remarkably, whereas coastal areas experienced lower fragmentation levels. (3) Distance to rivers and ditch density were the primary factors affecting landscape fragmentation, followed by land-use type and average land gross domestic product. The influence of natural factors was relatively minimal. The interaction between factors had a greater influence on landscape fragmentation compared to individual factors. The distance to rivers and land-use type exhibited the most substantial enhancement effects following interaction with other factors. This study provides valuable insights into the spatiotemporal dynamics and mechanisms of landscape fragmentation in the YRD, providing valuable guidance for the sustainable management and ecological restoration of the region and other similar ecologically sensitive areas.

BackgroundThe actual situation and influencing factors of prophylactic use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) in internal medicine inpatients receiving glucocorticoid therapy are rarely reported. This study aimed to investigate the current status and influencing factors of prophylactic use of PPIs in internal medicine inpatients receiving glucocorticoid therapy to provide a basis for rational prophylactic use of PPIs.MethodsInternal medicine inpatients receiving glucocorticoid therapy from February 2023 to September 2023 were included. Information on the prophylactic use of PPIs was collected and analyzed by clinical pharmacists. Associated factors with prophylactic use of PPIs were analyzed by univariable and multivariable logistic regression.Results980 inpatients were finally included in our study, of which 271 (27.7%) inpatients received prophylactic use of PPIs. Among the inpatients prescribed PPIs, 90 inpatients received a standard dose of PPIs twice a day. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that age ≥80 years [OR = 7.009, 95% CI (1.424, 34.495), p = 0.017], history of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) [OR = 2.047, 95% CI (1.338, 3.133), p = 0.001], low platelet count [OR = 0.997, 95% CI (0.994, 0.999), p = 0.004], number of concomitant diseases [OR = 1.104, 95% CI (1.056, 1.153), p < 0.001], junior doctors [OR = 1.755, 95% CI (1.248, 2.468), p = 0.001], glucocorticoid dose (higher than 50 mg, measured by methylprednisolone) [OR = 2.455, 95% CI (1.371, 4.395), p = 0.003], antiplatelet agents [OR = 2.567, 95% CI (1.456, 4.524), p = 0.001], immunosuppressants [OR = 1.477, 95% CI (1.014, 2.153), p = 0.042], and betahistine [OR = 5.503, 95% CI (1.124, 26.950), p = 0.035] were associated with more prophylactic use of PPIs.ConclusionThe prophylactic use of PPIs in internal medicine inpatients receiving glucocorticoid therapy is common in China. Clinical pharmacists will take targeted measures to promote the rational use of PPIs according to the results of this study.

Extracellular histones are crucial damage-associated molecular patterns involved in the development and progression of multiple critical and inflammatory diseases, such as sepsis, pancreatitis, trauma, acute liver failure, acute respiratory distress syndrome, vasculitis and arthritis. During the past decade, the physiopathologic mechanisms of histone-mediated hyperinflammation, endothelial dysfunction, coagulation activation, neuroimmune injury and organ dysfunction in diseases have been systematically elucidated. Emerging preclinical evidence further shows that anti-histone strategies with either their neutralizers (heparin, heparinoids, nature plasma proteins, small anion molecules and nanomedicines, etc.) or extracorporeal blood purification techniques can significantly alleviate histone-induced deleterious effects, and thus improve the outcomes of histone-related critical and inflammatory animal models. However, a systemic evaluation of the efficacy and safety of these histone-targeting therapeutic strategies is currently lacking. In this review, we first update our latest understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms of histone-induced hyperinflammation, endothelial dysfunction, coagulopathy, and organ dysfunction. Then, we summarize the latest advances in histone-targeting therapy strategies with heparin, anti-histone antibodies, histone-binding proteins or molecules, and histone-affinity hemoadsorption in pre-clinical studies. Finally, challenges and future perspectives for improving the clinical translation of histone-targeting therapeutic strategies are also discussed to promote better management of patients with histone-related diseases.

Abstract Understanding the microstructure of materials and their impact on performance is crucial for new electronic devices design. The strong interaction between multiple degrees of freedom (spin, orbit, charge, and lattice) within perovskite type oxides can generate rich electron phase diagrams. The microscopic modulation of manganese ions electron states in rare earth manganate perovskites is the root of many novel macroscopic quantum behaviors, such as giant magnetoresistance phenomenon. For ABO3 type perovskites, the differences of radii and valence states of A‐site ions are used to regulate the coexistence of B site manganese multivalent states (Mn3+, Mn4+, Mn5+), and its ordered structure in the metastable state will create a new combination of electronic states. The ordered arrangement of the multi‐dimensional space of electronic states can induce unique transport properties. Therefore, the preparation of manganate perovskites will provide strong chemical support to construct new generation quantum devices. This review summarizes the challenges and difficulties on constructing trivalent coexisting metastable phase in manganate perovskites through disproportionation reactions, and discusses the status and potential of designing ideal rectified p‐n junctions taking advantage of this unique structure. Finally, the foregrounds of new quantum states driven by this chemical reaction are prospected.

Nitrogen (N) is the primary essential nutrient for ginseng growth, and a reasonable nitrogen application strategy is vital for maintaining the stability of soil microbial functional communities. However, how microbial-mediated functional genes involved in nitrogen cycling in the ginseng rhizosphere respond to nitrogen addition is largely unknown. In this study, metagenomic technology was used to study the effects of different nitrogen additions (N0: 0, N1: 20, N2: 40 N g/m2) on the microbial community and functional nitrogen cycling genes in the rhizosphere soil of ginseng, and soil properties related to the observed changes were evaluated. The results showed that N1 significantly increased the soil nutrient content compared to N0, and the N1 ginseng yield was the highest (29.90% and 38.05% higher than of N0 and N2, respectively). N2 significantly decreased the soil NO3–N content (17.18 mg/kg lower than N0) and pH. This resulted in a decrease in the diversity of soil microorganisms, a decrease in beneficial bacteria, an increase in the number of pathogenic microorganisms, and an significant increase in the total abundance of denitrification, assimilatory nitrogen reduction, and dissimilatory nitrogen reduction genes, as well as the abundance of nxrA and napA genes (17.70% and 65.25% higher than N0, respectively), which are functional genes involved in nitrification that promote the soil nitrogen cycling process, and reduce the yield of ginseng. The results of the correlation analysis showed that pH was correlated with changes in the soil microbial community, and the contents of soil total nitrogen (TN), ammonium nitrogen (NH4+-N), and alkaline-hydrolyzed nitrogen (AHN) were the main driving factors affecting the changes in nitrogen cycling functional genes in the rhizosphere soil of ginseng. In summary, nitrogen addition affects ginseng yield through changes in soil chemistry, nitrogen cycling processes, and functional microorganisms.

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide. Connexin is a transmembrane protein involved in gap junctions (GJs) formation. Our previous study found that connexin 37 (Cx37), encoded by gap junction protein alpha 4 (GJA4), expressed on fibroblasts acts as a promoter of CRC and is closely related to epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and tumor immune microenvironment. However, to date, the mechanism concerning the malignancy of GJA4 in tumor stroma has not been studied. Methods: Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining were used to validate the expression and localization of GJA4. Using single-cell analysis, enrichment analysis, spatial transcriptomics, immunofluorescence staining (IF), Sirius red staining, wound healing and transwell assays, western blotting (WB), Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8) assay and in vivo experiments, we investigated the possible mechanisms of GJA4 in promoting CRC. Results: We discovered that in CRC, GJA4 on fibroblasts is involved in promoting fibroblast activation and promoting EMT through a fibroblast-dependent pathway. Furthermore, GJA4 may act synergistically with M2 macrophages to limit T cell infiltration by stimulating the formation of an immune-excluded desmoplasic barrier. Finally, we found a significantly correlation between GJA4 and pathological staging (P < 0.0001) or D2 dimer (R = 0.03, P < 0.05). Conclusion: We have identified GJA4 expressed on fibroblasts is actually a promoter of the tumor mesenchymal phenotype. Our findings suggest that the interaction between GJA4+ fibroblasts and M2 macrophages may be an effective target for enhancing tumor immunotherapy.

Abstract Background The prevalence and characteristics of inappropriate use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to prevent stress-related mucosal disease (SRMD) during the perioperative period and its associated factors are rarely reported. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of inappropriate prophylactic use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) during the perioperative period and identify its associated factors in a tertiary care and academic teaching hospital in China and to provide evidence for regulation authorities and pharmacists to take targeted measures to promote rational drug use. Methods Inpatients who underwent surgical operations and received prophylactic use of PPIs from June 2022 to November 2022 were included in this retrospective study. The appropriateness of perioperative prophylactic use of PPIs was evaluated by clinical pharmacists. Associated factors with inappropriate perioperative prophylactic use of PPIs were analyzed by univariable and multivariable logistic regression. Results Four-hundred seventy-two patients were finally included in this study, of which 131 (27.75%) patients had at least one problem with inappropriate perioperative prophylactic use of PPIs. The three most common problems were drug use without indication (52.0%), inappropriate usage and dosage (34.6%), and inappropriate duration of medication (6.7%). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that oral dosage form of PPIs [OR = 18.301, 95% CI (7.497, 44.671), p

Heatwave exposure has increased dramatically because of climate warming and population growth, along with their interactive effects. However, effective adaptation measures can reduce these impacts. Nonetheless, the dynamic changes, regional inequality in adaptive capacity and their potential contributions to reducing exposure in the future remain unclear. This study quantifies the impact of adaptive capacity and underscores regional variations in heatwave magnitudes, population exposure and adaptation levels in China. We projected the future adaptive capacity using air-conditioner penetration, factoring in climate cooling requirements and individuals’ purchasing power. Utilising population and gross domestic product (GDP) data from four Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSP1, SSP2, SSP3 and SSP5) and daily temperature data from four SSP-based emission scenarios (SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, SSP3-7.0 and SSP5-8.5), we estimated heatwave duration, population exposure and avoided impacts through adaptation across China and its sub-regions. Results show a substantial increase in heatwave duration in Southwest and Southern China, especially under the SSP5-8.5 scenario, with a projection of 163.2 ± 36.7 d during 2081–2100. Under the SSP3|SSP3-7.0 scenario, total exposure reaches 156.4 ± 76.8 billion person d per year, which is the highest among all scenarios and 23 times greater than that in 1986–2005 without adaptation. Upon considering adaptation measures, a noteworthy reduction in population exposure is observed, especially in the SSP3|SSP3-7.0 and SSP5|SSP5-8.5 scenarios, with reductions of (62.6 ± 3.9) % and (65.8 ± 5.1) %, respectively, compared with the scenario without adaptation during 2081–2100. Remarkable regional disparities in avoided impacts are also evident, with variations of up to 50% across different regions. The implementation of effective and environmentally friendly adaptation measures can notably address climate change, thereby alleviating the profound threats posed to human well-being.

Abstract Chiglitazar is a novel peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) pan-agonist, which passed phase III clinical trials and was newly approved in China for use as an adjunct to diet and exercise in glycemic control in adult patients with Type 2 Diabetes (T2D). To explore the circulating protein signatures associated with the administration of chiglitazar in T2D patients, we conducted a comparative longitudinal study using plasma proteome profiling. Of the 157 T2D patients included in the study, we administered chiglitazar to a specific group, while the controls were given either placebo or sitagliptin. The plasma proteomes were profiled at baseline and 12 and 24 weeks post-treatment using data-independent acquisition mass spectrometry (DIA-MS). Our study indicated that 13 proteins were associated with chiglitazar treatment in T2D patients, including 10 up-regulated proteins (SHBG, TF, APOA2, APOD, GSN, MBL2, CFD, PGLYRP2, A2M, and APOA1) and 3 down-regulated proteins (PRG4, FETUB, and C2) after treatment, which were implicated in the regulation of insulin sensitivity, lipid metabolism, and inflammation response. Our study provides insight into the response of chiglitazar treatment from a proteome perspective and demonstrates the multi-faceted effects of chiglitazar in T2D patients, which will help the clinical application of chiglitazar and further study of its action mechanism.

Background & Aims: Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) plays important roles in chronic liver diseases, including metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). MASLD involves various biological processes including dysfunctional cholesterol metabolism and contributes to progression to metabolic dysfunction–associated steatohepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma. However, the reciprocal regulation of TGF-β1 signaling and cholesterol metabolism in MASLD is yet unknown. Methods: Changes in transcription of genes associated with cholesterol metabolism were assessed by RNA sequencing of murine hepatocyte cell line (alpha mouse liver 12/AML12) and mouse primary hepatocytes treated with TGF-β1. Functional assays were performed on AML12 cells (untreated, TGF-β1 treated, or subjected to cholesterol enrichment [CE] or cholesterol depletion [CD]), and on mice injected with adenovirus-associated virus 8–control/TGF-β1. Results: TGF-β1 inhibited messenger RNA expression of several cholesterol metabolism regulatory genes, including rate-limiting enzymes of cholesterol biosynthesis in AML12 cells, mouse primary hepatocytes, and adenovirus-associated virus–TGF-β1–treated mice. Total cholesterol levels and lipid droplet accumulation in AML12 cells and liver tissue also were reduced upon TGF-β1 treatment. Smad2/3 phosphorylation after 2 hours of TGF-β1 treatment persisted after CE or CD and was mildly increased after CD, whereas TGF-β1–mediated AKT phosphorylation (30 min) was inhibited by CE. Furthermore, CE protected AML12 cells from several effects mediated by 72 hours of incubation with TGF-β1, including epithelial–mesenchymal transition, actin polymerization, and apoptosis. CD mimicked the outcome of long-term TGF-β1 administration, an effect that was blocked by an inhibitor of the type I TGF-β receptor. In addition, the supernatant of CE- or CD-treated AML12 cells inhibited or promoted, respectively, the activation of LX-2 hepatic stellate cells. Conclusions: TGF-β1 inhibits cholesterol metabolism whereas cholesterol attenuates TGF-β1 downstream effects in hepatocytes.

Objective: To provide high-quality clinical evidence of the efficacy of Tibetan medicine Honghua Ruyi (HHRY) pills for endometriosis-associated dysmenorrhea. Methods: This study constitutes a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial encompassing a three-menstrual cycle intervention followed by a three-menstrual cycle follow-up period. A total of 164 eligible females with endometriosis-associated dysmenorrhea were randomly divided into HHRY pills and placebo groups in a 1:1 ratio. The primary outcome included dysmenorrhea symptoms assessed using Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores and quality of life, whereas the secondary outcome measures included the maximum VAS for non-menstrual pelvic pain, duration of pain episodes (in days), frequency and quantity of the consumption of ibuprofen sustained-release capsules (or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), and days off work/study for staff/student due to dysmenorrhea, ovarian cyst, and/or pelvic nodule size. The safety was monitored throughout the treatment period. All the analyses were based on the intention-to-treat principle. For continuous outcomes, simple or multiple linear regressions were used to estimate the differences between the HHRY pills and placebo groups, with categorical data expressed as the number and percentage of occurrences. Differences were compared using the chi-square test or Fisher's exact test. The predefined analysis was adjusted for concomitant treatment, a variable considered to be associated with outcomes but unaffected by treatment allocation. Estimates of treatment effects were reported with 95% confidence intervals. Two-tailed P values ≤ .05 were considered statistically significant. Conclusion: Positive results from this trial, upon completion would provide robust evidence for the efficacy and safety of HHRY pills in treating dysmenorrhea in patients with endometriosis.

The Hulunbuir region, known for its diverse terrain and rich wildlife, is a hotspot for various natural epidemic diseases. Between 2021 and 2023, we collected 885 wild rodent samples from this area, representing three families, seven genera, and eleven species. Metagenomic analysis identified three complete nucleic acid sequences from the S, M, and L segments of the Hantaviridae family, which were closely related to the Khabarovsk virus. The nucleotide coding sequences for S, M, and L (1392 nt, 3465 nt, and 6491 nt, respectively) exhibited similarities of 82.34%, 81.68%, and 81.94% to known sequences, respectively, while protein-level analysis indicated higher similarities of 94.92%, 94.41%, and 95.87%, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis placed these sequences within the same clade as the Khabarovsk, Puumala, Muju, Hokkaido, Topografov, and Tatenalense viruses, all of which are known to cause febrile diseases in humans. Immunofluorescence detection of nucleic acid-positive rodent kidney samples using sera from patients with hemorrhagic fever and renal syndrome confirmed the presence of viral particles. Based on these findings, we propose that this virus represents a new member of the Hantaviridae family, tentatively named the Amugulang virus, after its primary distribution area.

In this study, sixteen compounds were isolated from the branches of Mitragyna diversifolia, including twelve triterpenes (1–12), a phenolic compound (13), and three flavonoids (14–16). Among them, compounds 1–7, and 10–16 were reported for the first time from this plant. Compounds 7, 14, and 15 exhibited significant inhibitory activities against α-glucosidase, with IC50 values of 18.48 ± 2.74, 12.14 ± 1.58 and 35.77 ± 4.52 µM, respectively. Furthermore, the inhibitory kinetics of α-glucosidase revealed that all fractions, active compounds 7, 14, and 15 belong to the mix inhibition type. In molecular docking, the analysis showed that compounds 13, 14, 15, and 16 possessed superior binding capacities with α-glucosidase (−8.3, −9.6, −9.9, and −9.2 kcal/mol, respectively). The results of the glucose uptake experiment indicated that only compound 14 showed a significant promotion effect on the glucose uptake rate of 3T3-L1 adipocytes (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, compounds 13, 14, 15, and 16 possessed potent antioxidant abilities with DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP. In DNA and protein oxidative damage assays, compound 15 had a stronger effect than the positive control Vc. The network-based pharmacological analysis platform was used to predict the diabetes-related target proteins of active compounds 7, 13, 14, 15, and 16, and two candidate targets (ALB and PPARG) related to their therapeutic effects on diabetes were identified.

Green technological innovation (GTI) has the dual externalities of promoting technological advancements and facilitating environmental protection. GTI assists manufacturing clusters respond to emission reduction and environmental protection challenges. Non-geographic proximity is vital in promoting knowledge sharing among organizations, facilitating GTI’s effective implementation; in this regard, a gap exists in the current literature. Using data from 330 cluster firms in China’s fine chemical industry and drawing on the knowledge-based view, this study explores how cognitive and social proximities affect GTI in cluster firms. The key findings are as follows: First, cognitive and social proximities are crucial factors driving GTI. Second, knowledge sharing mediates the relationship between proximity and GTI. Third, technological distance positively moderates the relationship between social proximity and green product innovation, and that between social proximity and end-of-pipe technological innovation. These findings have critical implications for cluster firms looking to cultivate network relationships based on distinct types of GTI.

Background and objectivesUpwards of 50% of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) survivors endure varying degrees of disability, with a recurrence rate of 17.7%. Thus, the prediction of outcomes in AIS may be useful for treatment decisions. This study aimed to determine the applicability of a machine learning approach for forecasting early outcomes in AIS patients.MethodsA total of 659 patients with new-onset AIS admitted to the Department of Neurology of both the First and Second Affiliated Hospitals of Bengbu Medical University from January 2020 to October 2022 included in the study. The patient’ demographic information, medical history, Trial of Org 10,172 in Acute Stroke Treatment (TOAST), National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and laboratory indicators at 24 h of admission data were collected. The Modified Rankine Scale (mRS) was used to assess the 3-mouth outcome of participants’ prognosis. We constructed nine machine learning models based on 18 parameters and compared their accuracies for outcome variables.ResultsFeature selection through the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator cross-validation (Lasso CV) method identified the most critical predictors for early prognosis in AIS patients as white blood cell (WBC), homocysteine (HCY), D-Dimer, baseline NIHSS, fibrinogen degradation product (FDP), and glucose (GLU). Among the nine machine learning models evaluated, the Random Forest model exhibited superior performance in the test set, achieving an Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.852, an accuracy rate of 0.818, a sensitivity of 0.654, a specificity of 0.945, and a recall rate of 0.900.ConclusionThese findings indicate that RF models utilizing general clinical and laboratory data from the initial 24 h of admission can effectively predict the early prognosis of AIS patients.

IntroductionKnowledge on spatiotemporal heterogeneity of plant root microbiomes is lacking. The diversity of the root microbiome must be revealed for understanding plant–microbe interactions and the regulation of functionally crucial microbial taxa.MethodsWe here investigated the dynamics of microbial group characteristics within each soil ecological compartment [rhizoplane (B), rhizosphere (J), and bulk soil (T)] across different cultivation years (year 4: F4 and year 5: F5) by using high-throughput sequencing (16S and ITS).ResultsAccording to the species diversity, microbiome diversity and the ASV (amplified sequence variant) number in the rhizoplane ecotone increased significantly with an increase in the planting years. By contrast, the microbiome diversity of the rhizosphere soil remained relatively stable. PCoA and PERMANOVA analyses revealed that microbial taxa among different planting years and ecological compartments varied significantly. Planting years exerted the least effect on the rhizosphere microbiome, but their impact on fungi in the rhizoplane and bacteria in the bulk soil was the most significant.DiscussionPlanting years influenced the microbial community composition in various ecological compartments of ginseng root soil. Potentially harmful fungi such as Cryptococcus (2.83%), Neonectria (0.89%), llyonectria (0.56%), Gibberella (0.41%), Piloderma (4.44%), and Plectosphaerella (3.88%) were enriched in F5B with an increase in planting years, whereas the abundance of potentially beneficial Mortierella increased. Correlation analysis indicated associations between bacterial taxa and soil pH/S-CAT, and between fungal taxa and soil moisture content/total potassium. Our study highlights the significance of changes in rhizoplane fungi and the stability of the rhizosphere microbial community in comprehending plant ecological sustainability.

Farmers are considered a high-risk group for intentional and unintentional injuries. This review identified significant risk factors for agricultural injuries in farmers and explored injury prevention countermeasures based on the literature. Therefore, CiteSpace software was used to analyze the relevant literature in this field. Additionally, we identified both key risk factors and countermeasures using the Haddon matrix and the 5 E’s risk reduction strategies conceptual framework, respectively. The risk factors were identified from four categories (host, agent, physical environment, and social environment) corresponding to three phases (pre-event, event, and post-event). Interventions of 5 E’s risk reduction strategies including education, engineering, enforcement, economic, and emergency response have been proven effective in preventing injuries or reducing their severity. Our findings provide a comprehensive foundation and research direction for the study and prevention of injuries among farmers.

There is a growing amount of research that highlights the significant connection between the development of colitis and both metabolic imbalance and the inflammatory response. Tagatose, an inherent sweetening agent and alternative to sugar, plays a crucial role in the biosynthesis of several chemicals and metabolic pathways in living organisms. However, the specific biochemical mechanism via which tagatose hinders colitis is still not understood. According to recent study, tagatose plays a crucial role in safeguarding the integrity of tight junctions inside the intestinal mucosal barrier. Furthermore, it is crucial to acknowledge the presence of a correlation between the severity of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and the occurrence of colorectal cancer (CRC), chemically-induced colitis in rodents, and reduced blood levels of tagatose. The treatment of tagatose resulted in a decrease in intestinal mucosal injury in mice with colitis, regardless of whether it was caused by dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) or spontaneous colitis in IL-10-/- mice and C3H/HeJBir mice. The introduction of tagatose in a colitis model triggers a cascade of events, wherein it hinders the expulsion of cathepsin B and enhances lysosomal cohesiveness. The aforementioned method successfully inhibits the activity of myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) in the context of intestinal epithelial damage, hence impeding the deterioration of tight junction integrity and the initiation of mitochondrial dysfunction. In summary, the outcomes of the study have provided empirical evidence that substantiates the beneficial effects of tagatose in mitigating the progression of colitis. The ability to prevent the disruption of the intestinal barrier is responsible for this achievement. Hence, tagatose has promise as a therapeutic adjunct for the management of colitis.

IntroductionSweet sorghum juice is a typical production feedstock for natural, eco-friendly sweeteners and beverages. Clostridium tyrobutyricum is one of the widely used microorganisms in the food industry, and its principal product, bio-butyric acid is an important food additive. There are no published reports of Clostridium tyrobutyricum producing butyric acid using SSJ as the sole substrate without adding exogenous substances, which could reach a food-additive grade. This study focuses on tailoring a cost-effective, safe, and sustainable process and strategy for their production and application.MethodsThis study modeled the enzymolysis of non-reducing sugars via the first/second-order kinetics and added food-grade diatomite to the hydrolysate. Qualitative and quantitative analysis were performed using high-performance liquid chromatography, gas chromatography-mass spectrometer, full-scale laser diffraction method, ultra-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry, the cell double-staining assay, transmission electron microscopy, and Oxford nanopore technology sequencing. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, pathway and process enrichment analysis, and homology modeling were conducted for mutant genes.ResultsThe treated sweet sorghum juice showed promising results, containing 70.60 g/L glucose and 63.09 g/L fructose, with a sucrose hydrolysis rate of 98.29% and a minimal sucrose loss rate of 0.87%. Furthermore, 99.62% of the colloidal particles and 82.13% of the starch particles were removed, and the concentrations of hazardous substances were effectively reduced. A food microorganism Clostridium tyrobutyricum TGL-A236 with deep utilization value was developed, which showed superior performance by converting 30.65% glucose and 37.22% fructose to 24.1364 g/L bio-butyric acid in a treated sweet sorghum juice (1:1 dilution) fermentation broth. This titer was 2.12 times higher than that of the original strain, with a butyric acid selectivity of 86.36%. Finally, the Genome atlas view, Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and evolutionary genealogy of genes: Non-supervised Orthologous (eggNOG) functional annotations, three-dimensional structure and protein cavity prediction of five non-synonymous variant genes were obtained.ConclusionThis study not only includes a systematic process flow and in-depth elucidation of relevant mechanisms but also provides a new strategy for green processing of food raw materials, improving food microbial performance, and ensuring the safe production of food additives.

PurposeChronic inflammation contributes to the decline in muscle strength and cognitive abilities associated with aging. This study aims to clarify the effects of oral administration of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei LC86 on these age-related declines, as well as its impact on the composition of gut microbiota.MethodsSenescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) mice received a 12 week regimen of LC86 (1 × 109 CFU/day). Muscle strength was assessed through forelimb grip strength and four-limb hanging tests. Cognitive function was evaluated through behavioral performance tests, and changes in gut microbiota were analyzed.ResultsAdministration of LC86 significantly enhanced muscle strength, demonstrated by increased grip strength and higher glycogen content in the gastrocnemius muscle (p = 0.041, p = 0.017, and p = 0.000, respectively). Behavioral tests suggested that LC86 mitigated age-related cognitive decline. Furthermore, there was a significant decrease in serum pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6, TNF-α, and MCP-1 (p = 0.002, p = 0.000, and p = 0.005, respectively), and an elevation in the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 level (p = 0.000). An increase in hepatic antioxidant capacity was observed. Significant changes in the gut microbiota composition were noted, including increased populations of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus and decreased levels of Escherichia/Shigella and Bacteroides.ConclusionThe findings suggest that LC86 supplementation mitigates muscle weakness and cognitive impairment in aging SAMP8 mice, potentially through the modulation of inflammation and gut microbiota composition. LC86 emerges as a promising candidate for ameliorating the decline of muscular and cognitive functions associated with aging.

The rise of antimicrobial resistance in ESKAPEE pathogens poses significant clinical challenges, especially in polymicrobial infections. Bacteriophage-derived endolysins offer promise in combating this crisis, but face practical hurdles. Our study focuses on engineering endolysins from a Klebsiella pneumoniae phage, fusing them with ApoE23 and COG133 peptides. We assessed the resulting chimeric proteins’ bactericidal activity against ESKAPEE pathogens in vitro. ApoE23-Kp84B (CHU-1) reduced over 3 log units of CFU for A. baumannii, E. faecalis, K. pneumoniae within 1 h, while COG133-Kp84B (CHU-2) showed significant efficacy against S. aureus. COG133-L1-Kp84B, with a GS linker insertion in CHU-2, exhibited outstanding bactericidal activity against E. cloacae and P. aeruginosa. Scanning electron microscopy revealed alterations in bacterial morphology after treatment with engineered endolysins. Notably, CHU-1 demonstrated promising anti-biofilm and anti-persister cell activity against A. baumannii and E. faecalis but had limited efficacy in a bacteremia mouse model of their coinfection. Our findings advance the field of endolysin engineering, facilitating the customization of these proteins to target specific bacterial pathogens. This approach holds promise for the development of personalized therapies tailored to combat ESKAPEE infections effectively.

Alterations in the microbial community significantly impact the yield and quality of ginseng. Yet, the dynamics of microbial community shifts within the root endophytes of ginseng across varying cultivation periods remain inadequately understood. This study zeroes in on the microbial community variations within the xylem (M), phloem (R), and fibrous roots (X) of ginseng during the fourth (F4) and fifth (F5) years of cultivation, aiming to bridge this research gap. We assessed soil physicochemical properties, enzyme activities, and nine individual saponins, complemented by high-throughput sequencing techniques (16S rDNA and ITS) to determine their profiles. The results showed that cultivation years mainly affected the microbial diversity of endophytic bacteria in ginseng fibrous roots compartment: the ASVs number and α-diversity Chao1 index of bacteria and fungi in F5X compartment with higher cultivation years were significantly higher than those in F4X compartment with lower cultivation years. It is speculated that the changes of fibrous roots bacterial groups may be related to the regulation of amino acid metabolic pathway. Such as D-glutamine and D-glutamate metabolism D-glutamine, cysteine and methionine metabolism regulation. The dominant bacteria in ginseng root are Proteobacteria (relative abundance 52.07–80.35%), Cyanobacteria (1.97–42.52%) and Bacteroidota (1.11–5.08%). Firmicutes (1.28–3.76%). There were two dominant phyla: Ascomycota (60.10–93.71%) and Basidiomycota (2.25–30.57%). Endophytic fungi were more closely related to soil physicochemical properties and enzyme activities. AN, TK, OP, SWC and EC were the main driving factors of endophytic flora of ginseng root. Tetracladium decreased with the increase of cultivation years, and the decrease was more significant in phloem (F4R: 33.36%, F5R: 16.48%). The relative abundance of Bradyrhizobium, Agrobacterium and Bacillus in each ecological niche increased with the increase of cultivation years. The relative abundance of Bradyrhizobium and Agrobacterium in F5X increased by 8.35 and 9.29 times, respectively, and Bacillus in F5M increased by 5.57 times. We found a variety of potential beneficial bacteria and pathogen antagonists related to ginseng biomass and saponins, such as Bradyrhizobium, Agrobacterium, Bacillus and Exophiala, which have good potential for practical application and development.

Objective: Food accumulation fever (FAF), a common clinical disease in children, is generally induced by the excessive intake of high-calorie or high-fat foods. Zhiqiao Chuanlian decoction (ZQCLD) is a classical traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that may have therapeutic effects on FAF. Methods: Network pharmacological analyses of ZQCLD and FAF were conducted. Animal experiments lasted for 14 days. Rats in the model, positive control, and low-, medium-, and high-dose groups were fed a high-calorie diet. On days 11–14, the positive group was given a domperidone solution. The low-, medium-, and high-dose groups were administered different concentrations of ZQCLD. The body temperature, gastric emptying rate, and intestinal propulsion rate were measured. Relevant indicators were determined by ELISA. Results: The main target proteins included IL-1β, C–C motif chemokine 2 (CCL2), prostaglandin G/H synthase 2 (PTGS2), transcription factor AP-1 (JUN), haem oxygenase 1 (HMOX1), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-γ), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (NOS2/iNOS). Compared with those in the control group, body weight, gastric emptying rate, intestinal propulsion rate, and neuronal nitric oxide synthase (NOS1/nNOS) levels were significantly lower in the model group, whereas body temperature and endotoxin, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), PGE2, and iNOS levels were increased. In each treatment group, body temperature and PGE2 levels returned to normal levels. Compared with those in the model group, the gastric emptying rates in the positive group and the low- and medium-dose groups increased; the intestinal propulsion rates were higher in the medium- and high-dose groups, whereas the endotoxin and IL-1β levels were lower; and the nNOS level was higher in the high-dose group, whereas the iNOS level was lower. Conclusions: ZQCLD may treat FAF by regulating jejunal IL-1β and nNOS, serum endotoxin, and hypothalamic PGE2 and iNOS levels.

Soil microbial carbon use efficiency (CUE) is a key parameter controlling the short-term carbon (C) cycle in terrestrial ecosystems. The effect of urea application (156 kg N ha-1) and corn stalks returning (9.0 tons ha-1) on soil microbial CUE and corn yield in semi-arid cropland was studied using the 18O-labeled water approach during a one-year experiment. In semi-arid cropland, applying urea reduced soil microbial CUE by 44%, while the soil microbial CUE was increased significantly by 34% after returning corn stalks to the field. The application of urea increased the total nitrogen content of soil by 23%, and corn stalks returning further increased nitrate nitrogen (NO3--N) by 45%, dissolved organic carbon (DOC) by 53%, and dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) by 122%. Compared with no fertilization, urea application increased the corn height by 4% and the corn yield by 21%. Corn stalks returning combined with urea reduced the corn stalks by 37% compared with no fertilizer. There was no significant difference in corn yield between corn stalks returning combined with urea and single urea application. Therefore, corn stalks returning combined with urea may be an effective agronomic measure to increase soil carbon sequestration, improve soil fertility, maintain corn yield, restore soil fertility, and improve production capacity.

Abstract Introduction This trial aimed to compare the efficacy and safety between biosimilar QL1207 and the reference aflibercept for the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). Methods This randomized, double-blind, phase 3 trial was conducted at 35 centers in China. Patients aged ≥ 50 years old with untreated subfoveal choroidal neovascularization secondary to nAMD and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) letter score of 73–34 were eligible. Patients were randomly assigned to receive intravitreous injections of QL1207 or aflibercept 2 mg (0.05 ml) in the study eye every 4 weeks for the first 3 months, followed by 2 mg every 8 weeks until week 48, stratified by baseline BCVA ≥ or

Abstract Background Regulator of G protein signaling 5 (RGS5), as a negative regulator of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling, is highly expressed in arterial VSMCs and pericytes, which is involved in VSMC phenotypic heterogeneity and vascular remodeling in tumors. However, its role in normal and tumor vascular remodeling is controversial. Methods RGS5 knockout (Rgs5-KO) mice and RGS5 overexpression or knockdown in VSMCs in vivo by adeno-associated virus type 9 (AAV) carrying RGS5 cDNA or small hairpin RNA (shRNA) targeting RGS5 were used to determine the functional significance of RGS5 in vascular inflammation. RGS5 expression in the triple-negative (TNBCs) and non-triple-negative breast cancers (Non-TNBCs) was determined by immunofluorescent and immunohistochemical staining. The effect of breast cancer cell-conditioned media (BC-CM) on the pro-inflammatory phenotype of VSMCs was measured by phagocytic activity assays, adhesion assay and Western blot. Results We identified that knockout and VSMC-specific knockdown of RGS5 exacerbated accumulation and pyroptosis of pro-inflammatory VSMCs, resulting in vascular remodeling, which was negated by VSMC-specific RGS5 overexpression. In contrast, in the context of breast cancer tissues, the role of RGS5 was completely disrupted. RGS5 expression was increased in the triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) tissues and in the tumor blood vessels, accompanied with an extensive vascular network. VSMCs treated with BC-CM displayed enhanced pro-inflammatory phenotype and higher adherent with macrophages. Furthermore, tumor-derived RGS5 could be transferred into VSMCs. Conclusions These findings suggest that tumor microenvironment shifts the function of RGS5 from anti-inflammation to pro-inflammation and induces the pro-inflammatory phenotype of VSMCs that is favorable for tumor metastasis.

Objective: To systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of Gong Liu Ning as a complimentary therapy in treatment for uterine fibroids. Methods: Randomized controlled trials on Gong Liu Ning for uterine fibroids from China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, China Science and Technology Journal Database, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, and ClinicalTrials.gov were retrieved from inception to March 20, 2023. The risk of bias tool was used to evaluate the quality of the selected studies after they met inclusion and exclusion criteria. The GRADE tool was used to evaluate the quality of evidence, and the RevMan5.3 software was used for data analysis. Results: Twenty studies with 1907 patients were analyzed. The meta-analysis results of 15 studies showed that Gong Liu Ning combined with mifepristone was more efficacious than those observed in controls taking only Western medicine (risk ratio [RR] = 1.22, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [1.11, 1.33], P

Drought stress is one of the main factors affecting the growth and secondary metabolism of plants. Iris domestica, rich in isoflavones, is a common herbal medicine in China. In this study, the effects of drought stress and rehydration on resistance physiological characteristics and the secondary metabolism of two-year-old I. domestica during the vegetative and reproductive growth period were investigated. The results showed that the dry weight and fresh weight of rhizomes and roots under severe drought stress were significantly decreased, while those under moderate drought stress were not significantly changed. Meanwhile, the SOD activities, POD activities, MDA content and Pro content increased to resist drought at D1 and D2. In the vegetative growth period, the changes in isoflavone concentration and the expression levels of genes in isoflavone synthesis were more dramatic. Isoflavone accumulation was promoted, to some extent, in the reproductive growth period under the D1 drought treatment. In the actual production process, different measures, namely short-term stress regulation in the vegetative growth period and moderate drought stress (13.44% < soil water content ≤ 16.8%) in the reproductive growth period, need to be adopted to regulate isoflavone biosynthesis.

Platycodon grandiflorum, a dual-purpose herb for food and medicine, is widely distributed in Asia. Although P. grandiflorum has relatively low requirements for its growing environment, temperature remains an important ecological factor affecting its growth, development, and quality formation. In order to explore the effect of different temperatures on P. grandiflorum during their growth period, the diversity in growth physiology, platycodin contents, and gene expression of key enzymes were investigated under constant (8 °C, 18 °C, and 28 °C) and variable (8–18 °C, 8–28 °C, and 18–28 °C) temperature conditions at each of the three levels. The results suggested that both constant and variable temperatures at high levels significantly increased the aboveground fresh weight of P. grandiflorum. However, the low–variable temperature was beneficial for the accumulation of dry and fresh weight in the roots. Regardless of whether temperatures were constant or variable at low levels, this increased the content of soluble sugars, proline, and peroxidase in P. grandiflorum, while upregulating the expression levels of key enzyme genes involved in platycodin synthesis. Meanwhile, a low–constant temperature inhibited the photosynthetic rate of P. grandiflorum. Furthermore, medium–constant and large-scale variable temperatures were conducive to the accumulation of platycodins in the roots. This research provides a theoretical basis and data support for the influence of temperature variations on P. grandiflorum quality formation.

Monitoring air pollution is important for human health and the environment. Previous studies on the prediction of air pollutants from satellite images have employed machine learning, yet there are few enhancements to the constructure of model. Moreover, the existing models have been successful in predicting pollutants like PM2.5, PM10, and O3. They have not been as effective in predicting other primary air pollutants. To improve the overall prediction performance of the existing model, a novel residual learning backpropagation model, abs. as BresNet, has been proposed in this research. This model has revealed the availability to precisely predict the ground-surface concentration of the six primary air pollutants, PM2.5, PM10, O3, NO2, CO, and SO2, based on the satellite imagery of MODIS AOD. Two of the most commonly used machine learning models so far, viz. the multilayer backpropagation neural network (MLBPN) and random forest (RF), were employed as the control. In the conducted experiments, the proposed BresNet model demonstrated significant improvements of 18.75%/31.94%, 33.82%/85.71%, 15.00%/35.29%, 39.06%/134.21%, 23.23%/68.00%, and 137.14%/260.87% in terms of R2 for the six primary air pollutants, compared to the RF/MLBPN model. Moreover, the convergence speed and loss function of the BresNet model compared to that of the MLBPN decreased by 55.15%, revealing superior convergence speed with the lower loss function.