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Myokines and exosomes, originating from skeletal muscle, are shown to play a significant role in maintaining brain homeostasis. While exercise has been reported to promote muscle secretion, little is known about the effects of neuronal innervation and activity on the yield and molecular composition of biologically active molecules from muscle. As neuromuscular diseases and disabilities associated with denervation impact muscle metabolism, we hypothesize that neuronal innervation and firing may play a pivotal role in regulating secretion activities of skeletal muscles. We examined this hypothesis using an engineered neuromuscular tissue model consisting of skeletal muscles innervated by motor neurons. The innervated muscles displayed elevated expression of mRNAs encoding neurotrophic myokines, such as interleukin-6, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and FDNC5, as well as the mRNA of peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1α, a key regulator of muscle metabolism. Upon glutamate stimulation, the innervated muscles secreted higher levels of irisin and exosomes containing more diverse neurotrophic microRNAs than neuron-free muscles. Consequently, biological factors secreted by innervated muscles enhanced branching, axonal transport, and, ultimately, spontaneous network activities of primary hippocampal neurons in vitro. Overall, these results reveal the importance of neuronal innervation in modulating muscle-derived factors that promote neuronal function and suggest that the engineered neuromuscular tissue model holds significant promise as a platform for producing neurotrophic molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Parturition is crucial for dams, their calves, and cow managers. The prediction of calving time, which assists cow managers to decide on the relocation of cows to maternity pens and necessity of human supervision, is a pivotal aspect of livestock farming. However, existing methods of predicting calving time in dairy cows based on hormonal changes and clinical symptoms are time-consuming and yield unreliable predictions. Accordingly, we investigated whether heart rate variability (HRV) which is a non-invasive assessment of autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity and behavior during the prepartum period would be useful for predicting calving time in dairy cows. Methods: Eight pregnant cows were surveilled under electrocardiogram and video recordings for HRV and behavioral analyses, respectively. HRV parameters in time and frequency domains were evaluated. A 24-h time budget was calculated for each of six types of behavior (standing and lying with or without rumination, sleeping, and eating). Results: Heart rate on calving day is considerably higher than those recorded on the days preceding calving. Low frequency power declined, whereas high frequency power escalated on the calving day compared to the period between 24 and 48 h before calving. The time budget for ruminating while lying decreased and that while standing increased markedly on the calving day compared to those allocated on the preceding days; nonetheless, the total time budget for ruminating did not differ during the prepartum period. Conclusion: We elucidated the ANS activity and behavioral profiles during prepartum period. Our results confirm that HRV parameters and behavior are useful for predicting calving time, and interestingly indicate that the time budget for ruminating while standing (or lying) may serve as a valuable predictor of calving. Collectively, our findings lay the foundation for future investigations to determine other potential predictors and formulate an algorithm for predicting calving time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rapid development of the fields of tumor biology and immunology, tumor immunotherapy has been used in clinical practice and has demonstrated significant therapeutic potential, particularly for treating tumors that do not respond to standard treatment options. Despite its advances, immunotherapy still has limitations, such as poor clinical response rates and differences in individual patient responses, largely because tumor tissues have strong immunosuppressive microenvironments. Many tumors have a tumor microenvironment (TME) that is characterized by hypoxia, low pH, and substantial numbers of immunosuppressive cells, and these are the main factors limiting the efficacy of antitumor immunotherapy. The TME is crucial to the occurrence, growth, and metastasis of tumors. Therefore, numerous studies have been devoted to improving the effects of immunotherapy by remodeling the TME. Effective regulation of the TME and reversal of immunosuppressive conditions are effective strategies for improving tumor immunotherapy. The use of multidrug combinations to improve the TME is an efficient way to enhance antitumor immune efficacy. However, the inability to effectively target drugs decreases therapeutic effects and causes toxic side effects. Nanodrug delivery carriers have the advantageous ability to enhance drug bioavailability and improve drug targeting. Importantly, they can also regulate the TME and deliver large or small therapeutic molecules to decrease the inhibitory effect of the TME on immune cells. Therefore, nanomedicine has great potential for reprogramming immunosuppressive microenvironments and represents a new immunotherapeutic strategy. Therefore, this article reviews strategies for improving the TME and summarizes research on synergistic nanomedicine approaches that enhance the efficacy of tumor immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Helicobacter pylori is a human pathogen that infects almost half of the population. Antibiotic resistance in H. pylori threatens health and increases the demand for prophylactic and therapeutic vaccines. Traditional oral vaccine research faces considerable challenges because of the epithelial barrier, potential enterotoxicity of adjuvants, and the challenging conditions of the gastric environment. We developed an intranasal influenza A virus (IAV) vector vaccine based on two live attenuated influenza viruses with modified acidic polymerase protein (PA) genes encoding the A subunit of H. pylori neutrophil-activating protein (NapA), named IAV-NapA, including influenza virus A/WSN/33 (WSN)-NapA and A/Puerto Rico/8/34 (PR8)-NapA. These recombinant influenza viruses were highly attenuated and exhibited strong immunogenicity in mice. Vaccination with IAV-NapA induced antigen-specific humoral and mucosal immune responses while stimulating robust Th1 and Th17 cell immune responses in mice. Our findings suggest that prophylactic and therapeutic vaccination with influenza virus vector vaccines significantly reduces colonization of H. pylori and inflammation in the stomach of mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stachydrine, a prominent bioactive alkaloid derived from Leonurus heterophyllus, is a significant herb in traditional medicine. It has been noted for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics. Consequently, we conducted a study of its hepatoprotective effect and the fundamental mechanisms involved in acetaminophen (APAP)-induced liver injury, utilizing a mouse model. Mice were intraperitoneally administered a hepatotoxic dose of APAP (300 mg/kg). Thirty minutes after APAP administration, mice were treated with different concentrations of stachydrine (0, 2.5, 5, and 10 mg/kg). Animals were sacrificed 16 h after APAP injection for serum and liver tissue assays. APAP overdose significantly elevated the serum alanine transferase levels, hepatic pro-inflammatory cytokines, malondialdehyde activity, phospho-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), phospho-protein kinase B (AKT), and macrophage-stimulating protein expression. Stachydrine treatment significantly decreased these parameters in mice with APAP-induced liver damage. Our results suggest that stachydrine may be a promising beneficial target in the prevention of APAP-induced liver damage through attenuation of the inflammatory response, inhibition of the ERK and AKT pathways, and expression of macrophage-stimulating proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among persons born in China before 1980 and tested for vaccinia virus Tiantan strain (VVT), 28.7% (137/478) had neutralizing antibodies, 71.4% (25/35) had memory B-cell responses, and 65.7% (23/35) had memory T-cell responses to VVT. Because of cross-immunity between the viruses, these findings can help guide mpox vaccination strategies in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Opioids provide good analgesic effect in burn patients during acute phase, but these patients may develop tolerance after prolonged exposure. Alternative analgesic strategies such as peripheral nerve blocks appear to provide adequate pain control while sparing opioid-related side effects. The purpose of this study was to evaluate intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (IV-PCA) and continuous peripheral nerve block (CPNB-PCA) in severe burn patients with relatively young age undergoing repeated debridement and large-area full thickness skin graft (FTSG). Methods: The records of victims in dust explosion in Taiwan in 2016 from Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Pain Service Database between 2016 June and 2017 December were evaluated. The patients' demographic data including age, gender, weight, burn area, degree of burn, type of PCA regimen (IV-PCA versus CPNB-PCA), size of FTSG, and adverse effects were collected. Results: The total in-hospital morphine consumption was significantly lower in CPNB-PCA than IV-PCA group. A trend of decrease in numerical rating scores (NRS) was observed for both groups and CPNB group had comparable NRS than IV-PCA group at rest. On movement, CPNB grouped had significantly lower NRS than IV-PCA on post-operative day 3. Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that in patients requiring high dosage of opioid, CPNB may be a suitable alternative for pain control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regional lightning protection is a complete theoretical system, mainly including; lightning interception technology (LIFT), lightning strong electromagnetic pulse high-energy absorption technology (MSPD), and regional lightning activity law analysis technology (RLLA). Lightning interception technology uses dispersive waveguide resonant cavity technology to achieve the functions of 46.55 m longer than upward leader of ordinary lightning rod, significantly reducing lightning strike point current by40%, optimizing space electromagnetic field environment, and effectively intercepting overhead and side lightning strikes, and overcome the limitations of traditional lightning rod. The lightning strong electromagnetic pulse high-energy absorption technology uses distributed parameter balance technology, special disconnector for short circuit current, and parity pairing technology to achieve stronger surge absorption capacity than traditional single pulse SPD and international advanced technical indicators such as timely breaking under power frequency short circuit current, and good energy and time coordination. The analysis technology of regional lightning activity laws accurately identifies lightning strike points through comprehensive analysis of regional lightning activity laws, physical parameters of ion clouds, and the impact on ground electric fields. The three Core technology systems complement each other, achieving all-round protection against direct lightning strike and lightning electromagnetic pulse. Several projects achieved zero lightning damage, effectively ensuring the safety of buildings and electronic and electrical equipment in the protected area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Snoring, apnea, and arousal are commonly observed during sleep in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and these nocturnal symptoms frequently disturb their bed partners. We aimed to evaluate the sleep disturbance and depressive tendency in the bed partners of patients with OSA. Methods: A cross-sectional, prospective study was conducted. A total of 136 patients with OSA and their bed partners were recruited. We analyzed the demographic data of both patients with OSA and bed partners and the polysomnography parameters of patients with OSA. The sleep quality of bed partners was assessed using the Chinese version of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and depressive symptoms were evaluated using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D). Results: The mean apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) was 43.5/h among all participants. Among bed partners, the mean PSQI score was 7.8 and the mean CES-D score was 15.4. The prevalence of chronic disease was significantly higher in bed partners with sleep disturbance (PSQI > 5) and depressive tendency (CES-D = 16). The AHI and snore index of patients with OSA were not associated with bed partners' sleep disturbance and depressive tendency respectively. The CES-D score was positively correlated with the PSQI score in the bed partners of patients with OSA (r = 0.426, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Bed partners tended to have sleep disturbance, which was unrelated to the severity of AHI and snoring in patients with OSA. Poor sleep quality may cause depressive tendency and chronic disease in the bed partners of patients with OSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is of great significance to examine the distribution of the fluid within the subduction zone to estimate the water flux into the subduction zone and to study the motion state of the subducting plate. The interaction of the Western Pacific Plate and the Indo‐Australian Plate controls the subduction and expansion of the Solomon Basin where the mechanisms governing plate activity remain unclear but are typically associated with high pore fluid pressures and stabilizing frictional conditions. Combining the long streamer seismic data (200) and nine well logs inside the work area, we used constrained sparse spike inversion to obtain the P‐wave impedance profile. Then we constructed reservoir rock physics models to predict the fluids distribution in New Britain Trench subduction system in Solomon Sea. The genetic algorithm was used to guide the inversion of the pore fluid distribution. The water content profile revealed the shallow structure of the New Britain Trench subduction system in Solomon Sea, including the water content within the basalt layers. We determined that in certain cases, faults identified from the reflection data were associated with low‐impedance anomalies, and this may indicate that they are zones of high porosity that act as conduits for fluid flow. The continuity of the distribution of water content under the New Britain Trench suggests that there is a large amount of free water that subducts deeply and may be important in controlling the motion state of the subducting plate. We assume that the water saturation is 1. Therefore, the free water flux entering the deep circle with the subducting plate is estimated to be 158 Tg/Ma/m totally, including 53.724 Tg/Ma/m in the sediment and 105.06 Tg/Ma/m in the basalt. This study provides insight into the structure of free water in the New Britain subduction zone and reveals the potential for the direct estimation of the 2D structural distribution of water content using geophysical survey data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites are widely used in the aerospace field because of their outstanding performance. Laser is an effective method for CFRP composite processing. However, there are corner errors and obvious thermal damage in laser corner cutting, which affect the cutting quality. This article mainly describes the corner error and thermal damage behavior, and the effect of anisotropy of nanosecond UV laser when cutting different corners of CFRP plates. Select six corner angles to perform a full factorial experiment with a right-angled triangle hole cutting under the horizontal and vertical baselines and different laser repetition rates. The results show that there are obvious corner errors and heat affected zone (HAZ) and matrix recession (MR) in laser corner cutting. The corner error always shows that the cut-in error is smaller than the cut-out error (28.06% on average), and the cut-in error and HAZ decrease with the increase of the corner angle, but the difference between the cut-in and the cut-out error increases with the increase of the corner angle. In vertical baseline cutting, the corner error can be reduced to a certain extent, but the HAZ (average 38.42%) is seriously increased, and the thermal damage of linear cutting under a large pulse repetition rate is increased. The large laser repetition rate increases the thermal damage due to the increase of the overlap rate of adjacent pulses but has less effect on the corner error, especially the cut-in error. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Propofol is a fast and short-acting intravenous anesthetic widely used in clinical anesthesia and intensive care unit sedation. However, its use can cause abnormal effects on the central nervous system. Thus, the purpose of this study was to investigate the mechanism of propofol on primary hippocampal neuron injury. In addition, we aimed to determine whether a correlation exists between propofol and mitochondrial apoptosis-induced neurotoxicity. Hippocampal neurons cultured for 4 days were exposed to different drugs. The treatment groups were divided according to drug exposure into propofol, a rotenone inhibitor, and a coenzyme Q10 agonist groups. The final concentrations of propofol were 1, 10 and 100 µM. The content of ATP and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the neurons of each group were detected using commercial kits in the culture supernatant after 3 h of drug exposure. Western blotting was used to analyze the expression of apoptosis-related proteins. The JC-1 kit was used to detect the mitochondrial membrane potential. The results revealed that, compared with the non-propofol treatment groups, the expression of apoptosis-related proteins, ATP content, and mitochondrial membrane potential were significantly decreased while the ROS content was markedly increased in the propofol treatment group. In conclusion, propofol treatment promoted damage to hippocampal neuronal mitochondria in a dose-dependent manner. This damage may lead to neuronal apoptosis and neurotoxicity by inducing the inhibition of mitochondrial respiratory chain complex I. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To meet the high-performance requirements of new energy vehicle drive, the optimization design of 8/6 Switched Reluctance Motor is realized based on finite element parametric modeling of the motor. Firstly, the initial design of motor structure parameters is carried out based on the mathematical model of Switched Reluctance Motor, and the simulation model of the motor is built using RMxprt platform, and the debugging of the characteristics of the wide speed range of the motor is finished. Then, the parametric finite element model of the motor is generated, and the stator and rotor pole arc coefficients of the motor are selected as the optimization variables, and the multi-objective compromise optimization of the torque characteristics and efficiency of the motor is carried out by using the Quasi-Newton method weighting method. Finally, the magnetic field distribution, torque characteristics, efficiency and speed range characteristics before and after optimization are compared, proving that the optimized Switch Reluctance Motor can achieve multi-objective performance optimization. The motor designed by this modeling optimization method can improve the requirements of vehicle driving better. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The slice method used in traditional slope stability analysis has been improved, but the development of monitoring technology means that its assumption of the rigid contact condition has become inapplicable. This study considered the case of the Ya'an Baoxing landslide, which is a thrust-type soil landslide in Sichuan Province (China). First, on the basis of the Imbalanced Thrust Force Method, a mechanical model with a Kelvin body added between the slice blocks was established, and the slice block velocity formula was derived using the dynamic differential equation. Notably, this model is currently at the stage of qualitative research and more effective simplification methods are required; however, this study does promote both a new concept for the slope stability method and a new approach to landslide mechanism analysis. Comparison of model test monitoring data and the analytical results revealed that the mechanical model could effectively reflect the internal mechanical transmission law of the thrust-type soil landslide. It verified that the landslide evolution process conformed to the Saito model, and revealed that the unbalanced force of the non-disintegrated landslide, which followed the law of internal force transmission from the top to the foot of the slope, initially rose and then fell rapidly. Finally, the interaction mechanism between the ideal elastoplastic anchor cable and the slope was examined based on engineering experience. This study innovatively reinterpreted the traditional slice methods, explored and proved to a certain extent the transmission mode of internal stress in a thrust-type soil landslide, and verified the possibility of achieving high-precision monitoring and early warning of slope instability using a mechanical monitoring method. • Landslides can be considered a conservative process. • Experiments have reproduced the evolution and failure processes of thrust-type soil landslides. • The New Imbalanced Thrust Force Model (NITFM) better describes stress transfer in thrust-type soil landslides. • The feasibility of mechanical monitoring methods has been demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To meet the high-performance requirements of new energy vehicle drive, the optimization design of 8/6 Switched Reluctance Motor is realized based on finite element parametric modeling of the motor. Firstly, the initial design of motor structure parameters is carried out based on the mathematical model of Switched Reluctance Motor, and the simulation model of the motor is built using RMxprt platform, and the debugging of the characteristics of the wide speed range of the motor is finished. Then, the parametric finite element model of the motor is generated, and the stator and rotor pole arc coefficients of the motor are selected as the optimization variables, and the multi-objective compromise optimization of the torque characteristics and efficiency of the motor is carried out by using the Quasi-Newton method weighting method. Finally, the magnetic field distribution, torque characteristics, efficiency and speed range characteristics before and after optimization are compared, proving that the optimized Switch Reluctance Motor can achieve multi-objective performance optimization. The motor designed by this modeling optimization method can improve the requirements of vehicle driving better. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastrodin is a major active phenolic glycoside extract from Gastrodia elata, an important herb used in traditional medicine. Previous research has reported that gastrodin possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. Therefore, we aimed to investigate its hepatoprotective effects and mechanisms on acetaminophen (APAP)-induced liver injury in a mouse model. Mice included in this study were intraperitoneally administered with a hepatotoxic APAP dose (300 mg/kg). At 30 min after APAP administration, gastrodin was intraperitoneally injected at concentrations of 0, 15, 30, and 45 mg/kg. Then, all mice were sacrificed at 16 h after APAP injection for further analysis. The results showed that gastrodin treatment ameliorated acute liver injury caused by APAP, as indicated by serum alanine aminotransferase level, hepatic myeloperoxidase activity, and cytokine (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) production. It also significantly decreased hepatic malondialdehyde activity but increased superoxide dismutase activity. In addition, gastrodin decreased ERK/JNK MAPK expression but promoted Nrf2 expression. These results demonstrated that gastrodin may be a potential therapeutic target for the prevention of APAP-induced hepatotoxicity via amelioration of the inflammatory response and oxidative stress, inhibition of ERK/JNK MAPK signaling pathways, and activation of Nrf2 expression levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recovery of microbial synthetic polymers with high economic value and market demand in activated sludge has attracted extensive attention. This work analyzed the synthesis of cyanophycin granule peptide (CGP) in activated sludge and its adsorption capacity for heavy metals and dyes. The distribution and expression of synthetic genes for eight biopolymers in two wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) were analyzed by metagenomics and metatranscriptomics. The results indicate that the abundance and expression level of CGP synthase (cphA) are similar to those of polyhydroxyalkanoate polymerase, implying high synthesis of CGP in activated sludges. CGP in activated sludge is mainly polymerized from aspartic acid and argi-nine, and its secondary structure is mainly ¿6-sheet. The crude yields of CGP are as high as 104 ± 26 and 76 ± 13 mg/g dry sludge in winter and in summer, respectively, comparable to those of polyhydroxyalkanoate and alginate. CGP has a stronger adsorption capacity for anionic pollutants (Cr (VI) and methyl orange) than for cationic pollutants because it is rich in guanidine groups. This study highlights prospects for recovery and application of CGP from WWTPs. IMPORTANCE The conversion of organic pollutants into bioresources by activated sludge can reduce the carbon dioxide emission of wastewater treatment plants. Identification of new high value-added biopolymers produced by activated sludge is beneficial to recover bioresources. Cyanophycin granule polypeptide (CGP), first discovered in cyanobacteria, has unique chemical and material properties suitable for industrial food, medicine, cosmetics, water treatment, and agriculture applications. Here, we revealed for the first time that activated sludge has a remarkable ability to produce CGP. These findings could further facilitate the conversion of wastewater treatment plants into resource recycling plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To examine whether serum procalcitonin (PCT) is useful for differentiating acute pyelonephritis (APN) from asymptomatic bacteriuria and acute cystitis during pregnancy. Methods: A multicenter prospective observational study was conducted to compare serum white blood cell (WBC) counts, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP) level, and PCT level among pregnant women with asymptomatic bacteriuria, acute cystitis, and APN and healthy pregnant women (controls). Utility of WBC count, ESR, CRP, and PCT biomarkers for the prediction of APN during pregnancy were measured. Results: Area under the curve (AUC) values of PCT, CRP, ESR, and WBC count for predicting asymptomatic bacteriuria were 0.576, 0.628, 0.542, and 0.532, respectively; those for predicting acute cystitis were 0.766, 0.735, 0.681, and 0.597, respectively; and those for predicting acute pyelonephritis 0.859, 0.763, 0.711, and 0.732, respectively. Compared with the other inflammatory markers used to predict APN, PCT exhibited the highest AUC (0.859 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.711-0.935]). A cutoff value of >0.25 ng/ml had a sensitivity of 87% and a specificity of 79%. Conclusion: Serum PCT can be a valuable addition to existing methods of differentiating asymptomatic bacteriuria, acute cystitis, and APN during pregnancy and can facilitate the early identification of APN during pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to simulate a process of directional vapor deposition, in this study, a numerical approach was applied to model the growth and evolution of surface morphologies for the crystallographic structures of thin films. The critical factors affecting the surface morphologies in a deposition process, such as the crystallographic symmetry, anisotropic interfacial energy, shadowing effect, and deposition rate, were all enclosed in the theoretical model. By altering the parameters of crystallographic symmetry in the structures, the faceted nano-columns with rectangular and hexagonal shapes were established in the simulation results. Furthermore, for revealing the influences of the anisotropic strength and the deposition rate theoretically on the crystallographic structure formations, various parameters adjusted in the numerical calculations were also investigated. Not only the morphologies but also the surface roughnesses for different processing conditions were distinctly demonstrated with the quantitative analysis of the simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maternal infection during pregnancy may affect fetal brain development and increase the risk of developing neurological and mental disorders later in life in offspring. In this study, we used low-dose lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injection to mimic mild maternal infection at a critical time window for fetal dopamine (DA) and serotonin (5-HT) neuron development. The affected offspring exhibited reduction of dopaminergic and serotonergic neurons and anxiety- and depression-related behaviors in adulthood. In the current study, we evaluated whether dextromethorphan (DM, 30 mg/kg), an over-the-counter antitussive drug with anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, could reduce the adverse effects of maternal infection mimicked by LPS exposure. We discovered that DM application did not change the baseline serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) levels in the LPS-exposed offspring. However, DM treatment could reduce the heightened immune responses induced by a postnatal LPS challenge test in prenatal LPS-exposed offspring. The neuroprotective effect of DM was only seen in DA neurons but not in 5-HT neurons. We concluded that DM treatment can partially protect the offspring against the adverse effects of LPS-induced maternal immune activation. The reduction in heightened immune responses and dopaminergic neuronal loss in LPS-exposed offspring could potentially reduce the risk of DA-related neurological and psychiatric disorders later in life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study is to investigate the association between acupuncture therapy and the risk of fracture in patient with osteoarthritis (OA). Design: The authors performed a 1:1 propensity score-matched cohort study to analyze patient with OA between January 1, 1997 and December 31, 2010 through the Taiwanese National Health Insurance Research Database. Patients who received acupuncture therapy from the initial date of diagnosis of OA to December 31, 2010 were included in the acupuncture cohort. Patients who did not receive acupuncture during the same follow-up period were defined as the no-acupuncture cohort. A Cox regression model was used to adjust for sex, age, comorbidities, prescription, and surgical experiences. Hazard ratios (HRs) were compared between the two cohorts. Results: A total of 3416 patients were identified after 1:1 propensity score matching. The patients had similar basic characteristics. In the final analysis, 292 patients in the acupuncture cohort (30.06 per 1000 person-years) and 431 patients in the no-acupuncture cohort (56.08 per 1000 person-years) developed fractures (adjusted HRs 0.57, 95% confidence interval 0.49-0.67). A reduced cumulative incidence of fracture was found in the acupuncture cohort (log-rank test, p < 0.001). The association between acupuncture and reducing the fracture incidence was independent of sex, comorbidities, drugs use, and surgical experiences. Conclusion: Their results revealed the association between acupuncture therapies and a reduced incidence of fracture development in patients with OA. This finding provides noteworthy ideas for further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glutenite (coarse-grained clastic) reservoirs of intergranularesecondary dissolution pore type are dominated by residual intergranular pores and secondary dissolution pores, and characterized by low porosity, low permeability, strong heterogeneity, and highly variable physical properties. It is difficult to conduct a quantitative quality assessment of these reservoirs while their primary control factors remain unclear. In this paper, experimental core data and drilling, logging and seismic data are used to assess the effect of sedimentary facies on reservoir quality. Favorable sedimentary facies zones are identified by analyzing the characteristics of glutenite reservoirs, which includes investigating rock components and their effects on reservoir quality. Argillaceous matrix content and rigid particle content are identified as the primary control factors for these reservoirs. Logging curves sensitive to reservoir quality are selected and examined to continuously characterize the physical parameters of the reservoirs. It establishes a calculation model of reservoir assessment parameters through multivariate regression and determines the quantitative assessment parameter Fr. The quality of the glutenite reservoirs is defined using conventional logging curves. This study also predicts the plane distribution of high-quality reservoirs through geostatistical inversion of the reservoir assessment parameters based on conventional wave impedance inversion, thus providing insight and guidance for quantitative assessment and quality prediction of glutenite reservoirs of the intergranular-secondary dissolution pore type. The application of this method to well deployment based on qualitative evaluation of the glutenite reservoirs in oilfields yielded favorable results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the most common infections among hospitalized patients. Cystoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure to check bladder disease, among the patients receiving procedure, approximately 10% of patients may experience UTI. In this study, a neural network model with high accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity was developed to predict the probability of UTIs caused by cystoscopic procedures. To reduce antibiotic overuse during cystoscopic procedures, the model can provide clinicians with a rapid assessment of whether patients require prophylactic antibiotics. Materials and Methods. Patients who underwent cystoscopic procedures at China Medical University Beigang Hospital from 2016 to 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. A total of 1647 patients were enrolled, and 147 cases of urinary tract infection occurred. An artificial neural network (ANN) and logistic regression analysis were used to develop the prediction models, and the two models were compared. Results. The logistic regression analysis model had an accuracy of 91%, sensitivity of 2%, and specificity of 99%, indicating that the logistic regression model predicted that most patients had a low risk of infection. The neural network model had a high accuracy of 85%, sensitivity of 80%, and specificity of 88%. Conclusions. Because the logistic regression model had low sensitivity and missed most cases of UTI, the logistic regression model is inappropriate for clinical application. The neural network model has superior predictive ability and can be considered a tool in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulsating pressure plays an important role in improving the poor irrigation quality and the uneven water distribution caused by the terrain slope. Water distribution is one of the key factors in design of the sprinkler irrigation system, however, it is difficult to measure in practice. To provide appropriate technical parameters for the design of sprinkler irrigation system with pulsating pressure on sloping land, a mathematical model was established according to the water conservation principle and finite element idea, and its accuracy was experimentally verified. The model was applied to study the effects of terrain slope, sprinkler arrangement, sprinkler spacing and average pulsating pressure on water distribution on sloping land. The results showed that the water distribution was more favorable under the gentle terrain slope, when slope decreased from 25% to 5%, the uniformity increased from 74.47% to 86.22%. Sprinklers arranged in equilateral triangle and with the spacing close to R0 had the best water distribution uniformity, the uniformity coefficient (CU) of which was 11.43% and 8.75% higher than that in square and rectangular arrangement, respectively. The CU increased with the increase of the average pulsating pressure. However, the effect of increasing water pressure on promoting the uniformity of water distribution gradually decreases. Therefore, when using the Rainbird R5000 sprinkler on sloping land with pulsating pressure, it is suggested that the sprinkler irrigation systems should be arranged below the terrain slope of 20%, and operated at the average pulsating pressure of 300 kPa. The suitable sprinkler arrangement is the equilateral triangle, and with the spacing of 0.8R0 to 1.0R0. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the theory of “Brain Xuan-fu Blood-Brain Barrier”, we use network pharmacology to study the potential mechanism of wind medicine to regulate the blood-brain barrier. The effective components of six wind medicines were screened using the traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology database and analysis platform and relevant targets were identified through this database; potential targets related to blood-brain barrier function were obtained through the GeneCards database; the “drug-component-target-blood-brain barrier” network map was constructed using Cytoscape software. The search tool for the retrieval of interacting genes/proteins database was used to construct a protein-protein interaction network map of target protein interactions and to screen the core targets using Cytoscape software; the database for annotation, visualization and integrated discovery database was used to perform gene ontology and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes enrichment analysis of the core targets at the drug-disease intersection; Vina was used for molecular docking. Six wind drugs with 43 effective components and 255 potential targets were screened, with a total of 217 targets where the drug intersected with the blood-brain barrier and 68 core targets. The top 20 biological processes obtained were related to pathways such as positive regulation of ribonucleic acid polymerase II promoter transcription, positive regulation of transcription, negative regulation of the apoptotic process, inflammatory response, lipopolysaccharide-mediated signaling pathway and cellular response to hypoxia. The top 20 pathways obtained involved cancer pathways, tumor necrosis factor signaling pathway, T cell receptor signaling pathway, nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor signaling pathway, hypoxia-inducible factor 1 signaling pathway, toll-like receptor signaling pathway, etc. The molecular docking results showed that the main effective components bind well to the core targets. The mechanism of action of wind medicine is probably through the mechanism of anti-inflammation and anti-apoptosis to act on the blood-brain barrier, which is of great significance in the treatment of encephalopathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rapid development of economic, the artificial intelligence network ideology of mobile Internet of things has become the core part of network security. It is also the most direct embodiment of a national ideology in the network era, and the risk prevention of ideology in colleges and universities is an important part of security work. The values, diversity, and related ideological and moral changes of college students' ideology are facing complex and severe challenges. In the age of mobile Internet of things, it is especially vital to strengthen and improve the responsibility of ideological values construction of the college students and constantly develop the risk operation and prevention management mechanism of college Internet of things. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a cholangiopathy caused by genetic and microenvironmental changes, such as bile homeostasis disorders and microbiota dysbiosis. Therapeutic options are limited, and proven surveillance strategies are currently lacking. Clinically, PSC presents as alternating strictures and dilatations of biliary ducts, resulting in the typical “beaded” appearance seen on cholangiography. The pathogenesis of PSC is still unclear, but cholangiocytes play an essential role in disease development, wherein a reactive phenotype is caused by the secretion of neuroendocrine factors. The liver–gut axis is implicated in the pathogenesis of PSC owing to the dysbiosis of microbiota, but the underlying mechanism is still poorly understood. Alterations in cholangiocyte responses and related signalling pathways during PSC progression were elucidated by recent research, providing novel therapeutic targets. In this review, we summarise the currently known underlying mechanisms of PSC pathogenesis caused by the dysbiosis of microbiota and newly reported information regarding cholangiocytes in PSC. We also summarise recently reported in vitro and in vivo models for studying the pathogenesis of PSC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The passive magnetic detection and localization technology of the magnetic field has the advantages of good concealment, continuous detection, high efficiency, reliable use, and rapid response. It has important application in the detection and localization of submarines and mines. The conventional location algorithm needs magnetic gradient tensor system moving to other points, we propose a kind of linear location algorithm with a unique solution based on a single measurement of the cuboid tri-axial magnetometer array. The magnetic gradient tensor of the magnetic target is first calculated at the center points of the six rectangles of the cuboid array, and then the distance between the magnetic target and the rectangle center of the cuboid array is calculated. Finally, according to the square difference of the distances of the three pairs of parallel rectangles, a linear equation set about the position coordinates of the magnetic dipole is formed and then these position coordinates are calculated fast. We derive an analytical formula of the location error for the linear location algorithm. The simulation shows that the position of the target can be calculated accurately and the relative error of the position is <1%, and the location errors are positively correlated with the noise standard deviation of the three-axis magnetometer, and more they are proportional to the non-orthogonality between every two axes, sensitivity deviation and bias of the three-axis magnetometer. The location errors of the linear location algorithm through numerical simulations are consistent with the location errors calculated by the analytical formula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastric cancer has a poor prognosis; once cancer has metastasized, it can easily lead to patient death. Melittin is one of the major components extracted from the bee venom. It has been shown that melittin emerges antitumor activities against many human cancer cell lines. Our results indicated that melittin at 0.2-0.5 µm significantly reduced total cell viability in human gastric cancer AGS cells. At low concentrations (0.05-0.15 µm), melittin displayed antimetastasis effects and inhibited cell adhesion and colony formation. Besides, it inhibited cell motility and suppressed cell migration and invasion. Melittin inhibited the activities of MMP-2 and MMP-9 and the integrity of cell membrane in AGS cells. Furthermore, Western blotting results showed that melittin decreased the protein expressions of Wnt/BMP and MMP-2 signaling pathways. Based on these observations, melittin inhibited cell migration and invasion of AGS cells through multiple signaling pathways. It may be used to treat metastasized gastric cancers in the future. The possible signaling pathways for melittin suppressed cell migration and invasion in AGS cells in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a W-band T-junction power divider based on rectangular microcoaxial structure is proposed. Rectangular microcoaxial line is a threedimensional (3D) structure with the merits of wide operation bandwidth, low loss, and high integration, which is suitable for the design of radio frequency (RF) devices. A two-way power divider is designed based on the rectangular microcoaxial structure. And the two-way power divider is expanded into a four-way power divider to further illustrate the design method. Moreover, a back-to-back configuration including two identical two-way power dividers is fabricated and measured. The insertion loss of the back-to-back configuration is about 0.11-1.18 dB in W band, which agrees with the simulation one reasonably and shows good performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The unique applications of porous metal–organic framework (MOF) liquids with permanent porosity and fluidity have attracted significant attention. However, fabrication of porous MOF liquids remains challenging because of the easy intermolecular self‐filling of the cavity or the rapid settlement of porous hosts in hindered solvents that cannot enter their pores. Herein, we report a facile strategy for the fabrication of a MOF liquid (Im‐UiO‐PL) by surface ionization of an imidazolium‐functionalized framework with a sterically hindered poly(ethylene glycol) sulfonate (PEGS) canopy. The Im‐UiO‐PL obtained in this way has a CO2 adsorption approximately 14 times larger than that of pure PEGS. Distinct from a porous MOF solid counterpart, the stored CO2 in Im‐UiO‐PL can be slowly released and efficiently utilized to synthesize cyclic carbonates in the atmosphere. This is the first example of the use of a porous MOF liquid as a CO2 storage material for catalysis. It offers a new method for the fabrication of unique porous liquid MOFs with functional behaviors in various fields of gas adsorption and catalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The unique applications of porous metal–organic framework (MOF) liquids with permanent porosity and fluidity have attracted significant attention. However, fabrication of porous MOF liquids remains challenging because of the easy intermolecular self‐filling of the cavity or the rapid settlement of porous hosts in hindered solvents that cannot enter their pores. Herein, we report a facile strategy for the fabrication of a MOF liquid (Im‐UiO‐PL) by surface ionization of an imidazolium‐functionalized framework with a sterically hindered poly(ethylene glycol) sulfonate (PEGS) canopy. The Im‐UiO‐PL obtained in this way has a CO2 adsorption approximately 14 times larger than that of pure PEGS. Distinct from a porous MOF solid counterpart, the stored CO2 in Im‐UiO‐PL can be slowly released and efficiently utilized to synthesize cyclic carbonates in the atmosphere. This is the first example of the use of a porous MOF liquid as a CO2 storage material for catalysis. It offers a new method for the fabrication of unique porous liquid MOFs with functional behaviors in various fields of gas adsorption and catalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large ocean waves with large wave height may destroy the ship's structure, whereas it is difficult to predict the nonlinear dynamic strength in the large waves. In this study, we used a nonlinear simulation based on boundary element method (BEM)-finite element method (FEM) and a collapse experiment of ship model to study dynamic ultimate strength and dynamic course of collapse of ship structure, the collapse test was performed in regular tank wave. Besides, a simulation method for nonlinear dynamic ship strength was proposed to predict and compare the results of collapse test. A collapsed model consisting of a plastic hinge and two ship strips is designed. Subsequently, we performed the nonlinear simulation of the ultimate strength of ship model induced by tank wave. Wave loads were calculated following potential theory and BEM. Next, ship structural FEM model was modeled, the ship pressure was transferred to ship wet surface elements, and inertia force was exerted as well. Finally, the nonlinear dynamic strength calculation of ship model was performed in accordance with nonlinear FEM. A four-point-bending test adopted displacement controlling method was designed to obtain the hysteresis characteristic of the elastoplastic hinge. Hysteretic test and simulation analysis was performed to determine post-ultimate bending moment. Time-domain computational results including rotation angle history and vertical bending moment are close to collapse test results so that the two methods are verified. This study verifies that structural nonlinearities of ship structure induced by wave loads could be predicted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A low profile ultra-wideband tightly coupled dipole array is studied. The antenna elements are fed by Marchand baluns of small size and low cost. A meta-surface based wide-angle impedance matching (MSWAIM) layer is introduced to replace the traditional dielectric WAIM, improving the beam scan performance and reducing the antenna profile. The simulation shows that the proposed antenna array can operate over 2.4-12.4 GHz, approximately 5:1 bandwidth with maximum scanning angle of 50o for both E plane and 45o for H plane. The antenna profile above the ground is only 0.578λH at the highest operating frequency. This antenna array can find its application in the forthcoming massive MIMO beamforming systems for 5G. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. The Fugl-Meyer assessment for upper extremity (FMA-UE) is a measure for assessing upper extremity motor function in patients with stroke. However, the considerable administration time of the assessment decreases its feasibility. This study aimed to develop an accumulative assessment system of upper extremity motor function (AAS-UE) based on the FMA-UE to improve administrative efficiency while retaining sufficient psychometric properties. Methods. The study used secondary data from 3 previous studies having FMA-UE datasets, including 2 follow-up studies for subacute stroke individuals and 1 test-retest study for individuals with chronic stroke. The AAS-UE adopted deep learning algorithms to use patients' prior information (ie, the FMA-UE scores in previous assessments, time interval of adjacent assessments, and chronicity of stroke) to select a short and personalized item set for the following assessment items and reproduce their FMA-UE scores. Results. Our data included a total of 682 patients after stroke. The AAS-UE administered 10 different items for each patient. The AAS-UE demonstrated good concurrent validity (r =0.97-0.99 with the FMA-UE), high test-retest reliability (intra-class correlation coefficient=0.96), low random measurement error (percentage of minimal detectable change=15.6%), good group-level responsiveness (standardized response mean=0.65-1.07), and good individual-level responsiveness (30.5%-53.2% of patients showed significant improvement). These psychometric properties were comparable to those of the FMA-UE. Conclusion. The AAS-UE uses an innovative assessment method, which makes good use of patients' prior information to achieve administrative efficiency with good psychometric properties. Impact. This study demonstrates a new assessment method to improve administrative efficiency while retaining psychometric properties, especially individual-level responsiveness and random measurement error, by making good use of patients' basic information and medical records. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A SiO2 cantilever covered by elliptical magnetic thin films was designed as an actuator. Under magnetic field, the elliptical magnetic film with sharp ends would exhibit single-domain structures and generate torque to push or pull the two arms of the cantilever. The cantilever could then stretch or compress and the displacement could be controlled by adjusting the magnitude and direction of the external magnetic field. The combination between micromagnetism of patterned films and actuator was successfully demonstrated. The magnetic actuator can be applied for future application in the biological field and would be valuable for microelectromechanical systems (MEMS). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cell patterning has become an important technology for tissue engineering. In this research, domain walls are formed at the two ends of a ferromagnetic ring thin film after applying a strong external magnetic field, which can effectively attract magnetically labeled cells and control the position for biological cell. Magnetophoresis experiment was conducted to quantify the magnetic nanoparticle inside the cells. A ring-shaped magnetic thin films array was fabricated through photolithography. It is observed that magnetically labeled cells can be successfully attracted to the two ends of the ring-shaped magnetic thin film structure and more cells were attracted and further attached to the structures. The cells are co-cultured with the structure and kept proliferating; therefore, such ring thin film can be an important candidate for in-vitro biomedical chips or tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ketogenic diets (KDs) are reported to improve body weight, fat mass, and exercise performance in humans. Unfortunately, most rodent studies have used a low-protein KD, which does not recapitulate diets used by humans. Since skeletal muscle plays a critical role in responding to macronutrient perturbations induced by diet and exercise, the purpose of this study was to test if a normal-protein KD (NPKD) impacts shifts in skeletal muscle substrate oxidative capacity in response to exercise training (ExTr). A high fat, carbohydrate-deficient NPKD (16.1% protein, 83.9% fat, 0% carbohydrate) was given to C57BL/6J male mice for 6 wk, whereas controls (Con) received a low-fat diet with similar protein (15.9% protein, 11.9% fat, 72.2% carbohydrate). After 3wk on the diet, mice began treadmill training 5 days/wk, 60 min/day for 3 wks. The NPKD increased body weight and fat mass, whereas ExTr negated a continued rise in adiposity. ExTr increased intramuscular glycogen, whereas the NPKD increased intramuscular triglycerides. Neither the NPKD nor ExTr alone altered mitochondrial content; however, in combination, the NPKD-ExTr group showed increases in PGC-1α and markers of mitochondrial fission/fusion. Pyruvate oxidative capacity was unchanged by either intervention, whereas ExTr increased leucine oxidation in NPKD-fed mice. Lipid metabolism pathways had the most notable changes as the NPKD and ExTr interventions both enhanced mitochondrial and peroxisomal lipid oxidation and many adaptations were additive or synergistic. Overall, these results suggest that a combination of a NPKD and ExTr induces additive and/or synergistic adaptations in skeletal muscle oxidative capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on fibrinogen-mimicking, multiarm nanovesicles for human thrombus-specific delivery of tissue plasminogen activator and targeted thrombolytic therapy. Topics include the clinical use of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) in thrombolytic therapy is limited by its short circulation time side effects, the multiarm nanovesicle for thrombus-specific tPA delivery thrombolysis and the lipid nanovesicle coated with polyethylene glycol terminally conjugated with a cyclic RGD peptide.

The LDA + U method is employed to study the electronic properties of ZnSxO1−x (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.25). The calculated results are consistent with the experimental results. It is found that the substitution of oxygen atoms by sulfur atoms can bring a localized sulfur defect level into ZnO. The sulfur level appears at 0.398 eV above the Γ VBM of ZnO. It is also found that the strongly localized effect of the sulfur level in the composition range (0 < x ≤ 0.1875) can pin the Γ VBM of ZnSxO1−x in the vicinity of the initial sulfur level. If the sulfur fraction goes on increasing, the sharp peak of the S‐3p states cannot be observed, demonstrating that the localized effect weakens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Coriolis effect in centrifuge modeling of flow-structure interaction has not been well understood, and thus this paper presents numerical simulations to address this issue. The results indicate that the Coriolis acceleration obviously regulated the flow-structure interaction pattern. The maximum total impact force was amplified by approximately 2 times, and the force was distributed along the entire barrier surface when changing the Coriolis acceleration direction from acting at the slope to acting away from the slope. Reducing the flow velocity by 30%-40% decreased the amplification ratio by approximately 14%-29%. The alteration of the microcontact condition and the energy consumption of the dry granular flow was the main influence mechanism of the Coriolis acceleration on the flow's impact behavior. The influence of the Coriolis effect on the viscous flow impact was completely different from that exerted on frictional flows. This discrepancy resulted from the intrinsic flow mobility determined by the material characteristics. Some practical discussions about centrifuge modeling of flow-structure interaction are made as well as some suggestions for future work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The artificial rapid propagation system for Swertia conaensis T. N. Ho et S. W. Liu was explored to screen the appropriate plant regeneration method and to provide an efficient propagation mode, useful for artificial breeding technology or for further research and development of the Tibetan endemic medicinal plant. In this study, the most suitable explant and hormone were chosen according to single factor test. Next, the effects of different hormone combinations on basal stem cluster bud induction, callus induction, adventitious bud occurrence and plant regeneration were investigated by using complete combination and orthogonal experiment. The obtained results showed that the explants suitable for in vitro of S. conaensis were stem tips with leaves, which were regenerated through the method of basal stem cluster bud occurrence in the MS medium with 2.0 mg·L-1 6-BA, 0.5 mg·L-1 NAA, but the proliferation coefficient was low, only 3.16 after 40 days of culture. Subsequently, the proliferation coefficient failed to improve, irrespective of change of the concentration ratio of 6-BA and NAA. Therefore, in the orthogonal experiment of adding ZT, the MS medium with 1.0 mg·L-1 ZT, 0.5 mg·L-1 NAA and 2.5 mg·L-1 6-BA induced a large number of callus green and compact, with 86.30% callus occurrence rate. After 40 days of culture, the rate of adventitious bud occurrence was 96.55% and the proliferation coefficient was high (10.37). The rooting rate was 100% in the 1/2MS medium with 0.5 mg·L-1 NAA. The survival rate of regenerated plants was more than 95%. Indirect organogenesis was more efficient than direct organogenesis in in vitro culture of S. conaensis. In this study, the efficient and stable regeneration system of S. conaensis was achieved through the method of explant to callus to adventitious buds, which provided an effective way to an endangered species.species [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Overexpression of MdABCI17 , an ATP binding cassette (ABC) transporter located in the tonoplast, significantly promotes anthocyanin accumulation in apple. • This study provides insight into the mechanism of MdABCI17 -medicated anthocyanin accumulation, which will be useful for improving anthocyanin metabolism in apple and other plants. • This study facilitates the understanding of the roles of tonoplast proteins in plants and provides a novel strategy to improve the quality of apple fruit and other crops. As a key colorant and antioxidant in human diets, anthocyanin is biosynthesized in cytosols and transported to vacuoles and other sites for storage. Therefore, the tonoplast transporters of anthocyanin play a key role in the anthocyanin storage and accumulation of plants. In this study, an ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter MdABCI17 , which is located in the tonoplast, was identified. There was a positive correlation between the MdABCI17 expression and the anthocyanin accumulation during apple fruit ripening. Transgenic analysis showed that up-regulation of MdABCI17 expression in apple fruit and calli significantly increased anthocyanin content. Additionally, the expression of multiple anthocyanin biosynthesize genes, such as MdANS, MdCHS, MdCHI, MdDFR , and MdUFGT , was remarkably upregulated in apple fruit and calli with upregulated expression of MdABCI17 , further demonstrating the critical role of MdABCI17 in the anthocyanin accumulation of apple. In summary, the expression of MdABCI17 had positive effects on anthocyanin accumulation, which will be useful for improving the quality of apple and other plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aim of current study was to develop a questionnaire with good reliability and validity for measuring Taiwanese adolescents' total and domain-specific time spent engaging in various sedentary behaviors. Methods: Ninety-seven junior high school students in Changhua City participated in this study. They completed the questionnaire twice over a one-week period and wore a tri-axial accelerometer during this period. The test-retest reliability was examined by Spearman's rank correlation and paired-samples t-test. The criterion-related validity in total sedentary time per day was first examined by Spearman's rank correlation between self-report measurement and accelerometer-assessed measurement. In addition, a Bland-Altman Plot was used to compare the consistency between these two measurements. Results: The results showed that the mean self-reported total sedentary time was 6.11 (SD = 2.98) hours. With regard to the test-retest reliability, there was no significant difference in total and domain specific time of self-report sedentary behavior, except for "Studying/Doing homework." The Spearman's rank correlation coefficients of the total sedentary time per day, and the two domain specific items, "Using a computer for fun" and "Playing/practicing a musical instrument," were higher than the recommended level 0.70. The coefficients of the other five items, "Using the phone," "Out-of-school-hours tutoring," "Reading for fun," "Passive transport," and "Using a computer for homework," ranged between 0.60 and 0.69. The reliability of the remaining Three items-"Studying/Doing homework," "Watching TV," and "Doing crafts or others," ranged from 0.50 to 0.59. Results also showed that there was a significant correlation in total sedentary time between self-report measurement and accelerometer-assessed measurement (Spearman's ρ = 0.55), indicating a good criterion-related validity. According to Bland-Altman Plot, compared to accelerometer- assessed measurement, the self-report questionnaire underestimated the total sedentary time per day about 1.36 hours, which was better (i.e., less underestimated) than previous research. Conclusion: The current study showed the preliminary evidence that our questionnaire was useful for measuring the sedentary behavior in Taiwanese adolescents with acceptable reliability and validity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bacteremia-induced sepsis is a leading cause of mortality in intensive care units. To control a bacterial infection, an immune response is required, but this response might contribute to organ failure. Kidneys are one of the main organs affected by bacteremia. Combination therapies with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects may be beneficial in treating bacteremia. This study aimed to develop nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) loaded with ciprofloxacin and rolipram that exert a combination of anti-methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and anti-inflammatory effects. Retinol was incorporated into the nanoparticles to transport retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) to the kidneys, which abundantly express RBP receptors. The NLCs were fabricated by high-shear homogenization and sonication, and neutrophils were used as a model to assess their anti-inflammatory effects. Mice were injected with MRSA to establish a model of bacteremia with organ injury. Results: The mean nanoparticle size and zeta potential of the NLCs were 171 nm and − 39 mV, respectively. Ciprofloxacin (0.05%, w/v) and rolipram (0.02%) achieved encapsulation percentages of 88% and 96%, respectively, in the nanosystems. The minimum bactericidal concentration of free ciprofloxacin against MRSA increased from 1.95 to 15.63 µg/ml when combined with rolipram, indicating a possible drug-drug interaction that reduced the antibacterial effect. Nanoparticle inclusion promoted the anti-MRSA activity of ciprofloxacin according to time-kill curves. The NLCs were found to be largely internalized into neutrophils and exhibited superior superoxide anion inhibition than free drugs. Retinol incorporation into the nanocarriers facilitated their efficient targeting to the kidneys. The NLCs significantly mitigated MRSA burden and elastase distribution in the organs of MRSA-infected animals, and the greatest inhibition was observed in the kidneys. Bacterial clearance and neutrophil infiltration suppression attenuated the bacteremia-induced cytokine overexpression, leading to an improvement in the survival rate from 22% to 67%. Conclusions: The dual role of our NLCs endowed them with greater efficacy in treating MRSA bacteremia than that of free drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citrus Huanglongbing (HLB), caused by a vector-transmitted phloemlimited bacterium Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas), is the most devastating citrus disease worldwide. Currently, there are no effective strategies to prevent infection or to cure HLB-positive trees. Here, using comparative analysis between HLB-sensitive citrus cultivars and HLB-tolerant citrus hybrids and relatives, we identified a novel class of stable antimicrobial peptides (SAMPs). The SAMP from Microcitrus australiasica can rapidly kill Liberibacter crescens (Lcr), a culturable Liberibacter strain, and inhibit infections of CLas and CL. solanacearum in plants. In controlled greenhouse trials, SAMP not only effectively reduced CLas titer and disease symptoms in HLB-positive trees but also induced innate immunity to prevent and inhibit infections. Importantly, unlike antibiotics, SAMP is heat stable, making it better suited for field applications. Spray-applied SAMP was taken up by citrus leaves, stayed stable inside the plants for at least a week, and moved systemically through the vascular system where CLas is located. We further demonstrate that SAMP is most effective on a-proteobacteria and causes rapid cytosol leakage and cell lysis. The a-helix-2 domain of SAMP is sufficient to kill Lcr. Future field trials will help determine the efficacy of SAMP in controlling HLB and the ideal mode of application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nematode-trapping fungi (NTF) are carnivorous fungi that prey on nematodes under nutrient-poor conditions via specialized hyphae that function as traps. The molecular mechanisms involved in the interactions between NTF and their nematode prey are largely unknown. In this study, we conducted forward genetic screens to identify potential genes and pathways that are involved in trap morphogenesis and predation in the NTF Arthrobotrys oligospora. Using Ethyl methanesulfonate and UV as the mutagens, we generated 5552 randomly mutagenized A. oligospora strains and identified 15 mutants with strong defects in trap morphogenesis. Whole-genome sequencing and bioinformatic analyses revealed mutations in genes with roles in signaling, transcription or membrane transport that may contribute to the defects of trap morphogenesis in these mutants. We further conducted functional analyses on a candidate gene, YBP-1, and demonstrate that mutation of that gene was causative of the phenotypes observed in one of the mutants. The methods established in this study might provide helpful insights for establishing forward genetic screening methods for other non-model fungal species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexible electronics require its substrate to have adequate thermal stability, but current thermally stable polymer substrates are difficult to be disintegrated and recycled; hence, generate enormous electronic solid waste. Here, a thermally stable and green solvent‐disintegrable polymer substrate is developed for flexible electronics to promote their recyclability and reduce solid waste generation. Thanks to the proper design of rigid backbones and rational adjustments of polar and bulky side groups, the polymer substrate exhibits excellent thermal and mechanical properties with thermal decomposition temperature (Td,5%) of 430 °C, upper operating temperature of over 300 °C, coefficient of thermal expansion of 48 ppm K−1, tensile strength of 103 MPa, and elastic modulus of 2.49 GPa. Furthermore, the substrate illustrates outstanding optical and dielectric properties with high transmittance of 91% and a low dielectric constant of 2.30. Additionally, it demonstrates remarkable chemical and flame resistance. A proof‐of‐concept flexible printed circuit device is fabricated with this substrate, which demonstrates outstanding mechanical–electrical stability. Most importantly, the substrate can be quickly disintegrated and recycled with alcohol. With outstanding thermally stable properties, accompanied by excellent recyclability, the substrate is particularly attractive for a wide range of electronics to reduce solid waste generation, and head toward flexible and "green" electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Axolotl limb regeneration is a fascinating characteristic that has attracted attention for several decades. Our previous studies on axolotl limb regeneration indicated that the satellite cells in the remnant muscles move distally into the blastema to regenerate new muscles that are separated by a gap from remnant muscles. Thereafter, the regenerative muscle fibers start to reconnect with remnant ones. In this study, the reconnection at the individual muscle fiber level was elucidated to test the hypothesis that this reconnection happens synchronously among involved muscles. Three pairs of EGFP+ mid-bud stage blastemas were transplanted onto freshly amputated stumps of RFP+ axolotls at the same thigh position to generate double fluorescence chimeric regenerative hindlimbs. These regenerative limbs were harvested very late far beyond they had reached the late differentiation stage. Fluorescence imaging of these limbs in cross sections revealed that in the proximal remnant part of the muscle fiber, reconnection occurred at a different pace among the muscles. In the major thigh muscle gracilis, the reconnection started from the periphery before it was completed. Furthermore, RFP+ muscle fibers contributed to muscle regeneration in the distal regenerative parts. Intriguingly, this red cell contribution was limited to ventral superficial muscles of the calf. This kind of double fluorescence chimeric limb regeneration model may help increase the understanding of the patterning of axolotl limb regeneration in late stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]