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IgLON5 autoimmunity is a novel antibody-mediated disorder characterized by serum and/or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) positivity for IgLON5 antibody. Anti-IgLON5 disease mainly manifests as sleep disturbances, movement disorders and brainstem syndromes. In this study, we report the case of a patient with anti-IgLON5 disease who presented with abdominal distension, abdominal pain, intermittent dysuria and constipation, and intermittent lightning pain in the extremities, which are atypical of anti-IgLON5 disease and could easily lead to misdiagnosis. After performing autoantibody screening, we considered anti-IgLON5 disease. The patient was started on a course of immunotherapy with intravenous dexamethasone, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and oral azathioprine. Following treatment, the manifestations nearly resolved. The clinical manifestations of anti-IgLON5 disease are diverse and may present in different combinations, which can easily lead to misdiagnosis. Early recognition and treatment of this autoimmune disease with immunosuppressive agents may lead to better outcomes., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest All authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper, (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Lithium (Li) metal is widely recognized as a viable candidate for anode material in future battery technologies due to its exceptional energy density. Nevertheless, the commercial Li foils in common use are too thick (≈100 µm), resulting in a waste of Li resources. Herein, by applying the vacuum evaporation plating technology, the ultra-thin Li foils (VELi) with high purity, strong adhesion, and thickness of less than 10 µm are successfully prepared. The manipulation of evaporation temperature allows for convenient regulation of the thickness of the fabricated Li film. This physical thinning method allows for fast, continuous, and highly accurate mass production. With a current density of 0.5 mA cm -2 for a plating amount of 0.5 mAh cm -2 , VELi||VELi cells can stably cycle for 200 h. The maximum utilization of Li is already more than 25%. Furthermore, LiFePO 4 ||VELi full cells present excellent cycling performance at 1 C (1 C = 155 mAh g -1 ) with a capacity retention rate of 90.56% after 240 cycles. VELi increases the utilization of active Li and significantly reduces the cost of Li usage while ensuring anode cycling and multiplication performance. Vacuum evaporation plating technology provides a feasible strategy for the practical application of ultra-thin Li anodes., (© 2024 Wiley‐VCH GmbH.)

In recent years, there have been extensive debates regarding the charging mechanism of MnO 2 cathodes in aqueous Zn electrolytes. The discussion centered on several key aspects including the identity of the charge carriers contributing to the overall capacity, the nature of the electrochemical process, and the role of the zinc hydroxy films that are reversibly formed during the charging/discharging. Intense studies are also devoted to understanding the effect of the Mn 2+ additive on the performance of the cathodes. Nevertheless, it seems that a consistent explanation of the α-MnO 2 charging mechanism is still lacking. To address this, a step-by-step analysis of the MnO 2 cathodes is conducted. Valuable information is obtained by using in situ electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (EQCM-D) monitoring, supplemented by solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) in Characterization of Materials, and pH measurements. The findings indicate that the charging mechanism is dominated by the insertion of H 3 O + ions, while no evidence of Zn 2+ intercalation is found. The role of the Mn 2+ additive in promoting the generation of protons by forming MnOOH, enhancing the stability of Zn/α-MnO 2 batteries is thoroughly investigated. This work provides a comprehensive overview on the electrochemical and the chemical reactions associated with the α-MnO 2 electrodes, and will pave the way for further development of aqueous cathodes for Zn-ion batteries., (© 2024 Wiley‐VCH GmbH.)

Group 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3s) play key roles in intestinal inflammation. Olfactomedin 4 (OLFM4) is highly expressed in the colon and has a potential role in dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis. However, the detailed mechanisms underlying the effects of OLFM4 on ILC3-mediated colitis remain unclear. In this study, we identify OLFM4 as a positive regulator of IL-22 + ILC3. OLFM4 expression in colonic ILC3s increases substantially during intestinal inflammation in humans and mice. Compared to littermate controls, OLFM4-deficient (OLFM4 -/- ) mice are more susceptible to bacterial infection and display greater resistance to anti-CD40 induced innate colitis, together with impaired IL-22 production by ILC3, and ILC3s from OLFM4 -/- mice are defective in pathogen resistance. Besides, mice with OLFM4 deficiency in the RORγt compartment exhibit the same trend as in OLFM4 -/- mice, including colonic inflammation and IL-22 production. Mechanistically, the decrease in IL-22 + ILC3 caused by OLFM4 deficiency involves the apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1)- p38 MAPK signaling-dependent downregulation of RAR-related orphan receptor gamma (RORγt) protein. The OLFM4-metadherin (MTDH) complex upregulates p38/RORγt signaling, which is necessary for IL-22 + ILC3 activation. The findings indicate that OLFM4 is a novel regulator of IL-22 + ILC3 and essential for modulating intestinal inflammation and tissue homeostasis., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Electrochemical water splitting holds promise for sustainable hydrogen production but restricted by the sluggish reaction kinetics at the anodic oxygen evolution. Herein, we present a room-temperature spontaneous corrosion strategy to convert inexpensive iron (Fe) on iron foam substrates into highly active and stable self-supporting nickel iron layered hydroxide (NiFe LDH) catalysts. The corrosion evolution mechanisms are elucidated combining ex-situ scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray photo electron spectroscopy (XPS) techniques, demonstrating precise control over the concentration of Ni2+ and reaction time to achieve controllable micro-structures of NiFe LDH. Taking advantage of the self-supporting morphology and hierarchical micro-/nano- structure, the NiFe LDH with optimized Ni2+ concentration and reaction time exhibits significant small overpotentials of 160 mV and 200 mV for the OER at current densities of 10 mA cm-2 and 100 mA cm-2 respectively, showcasing excellent OER activities. Furthermore, this catalyst demonstrates superior reaction kinetics, high electrochemical stability, and excellent integral water splitting performance when coupled with a commercial Pt/C cathode. The energy-efficient, cost-effective, and scalable spontaneous corrosion strategy opens new avenues for the development of high-electrochemical-interface catalysts., (© 2024 Wiley‐VCH GmbH.)

Objective: To investigate the medium- and long-term effectiveness of hip revision with SL-PLUS MIA stem in patients with Paprosky typeⅠ-Ⅲ femoral bone defect., Methods: Between June 2012 and December 2018, 44 patients with Paprosky typeⅠ-Ⅲ femoral bone defect received hip revision using SL-PLUS MIA stem. There were 28 males and 16 females, with an average age of 57.7 years (range, 31-76 years). Indications for revision comprised aseptic loosening (27 cases) and periprosthetic joint infection (17 cases). The Harris hip scores were 54 (48, 60) and 43 (37, 52) in patients with aseptic loosening and periprosthetic joint infection, respectively. The preoperative femoral bone defects were identified as Paprosky type Ⅰ in 32 cases, type Ⅱ in 9 cases, type ⅢA in 2 cases, and type ⅢB in 1 case. Operation time and intraoperative blood transfusion volume were recorded. During follow-up after operation, the hip joint function were evaluated by Harris hip score and X-ray films, the femoral stem survival was analyzed, and the surgical related complications were recorded., Results: The operation time of infected patients was 95-215 minutes, with an average of 125.0 minutes. The intraoperative blood transfusion volume was 400-1 800 mL, with an average of 790.0 mL. The operation time of patients with aseptic loosening was 70-200 minutes, with an average of 121.0 minutes. The intraoperative blood transfusion volume was 400-1 400 mL, with an average of 721.7 mL. All patients were followed up 5.3-10.0 years (mean, 7.4 years). At last follow-up, the Harris hip scores were 88 (85, 90) and 85 (80, 88) in patients with aseptic loosening and periprosthetic joint infection, respectively, both of which were significantly higher than those before operation ( P <0.05). Radiological examination results showed that the distal end of the newly implanted femoral stem did not cross the distal end of the original prosthesis in 25 cases, and all femoral stems obtained bone fixation. Two cases experienced femoral stem subsidence and 1 case had a translucent line on the lateral side of the proximal femoral stem. When aseptic loosening was defined as the end event, the 10-year survival rate of the SL-PLUS MIA stem was 100%. When treatment failure due to any reason was defined as the end event, the survival time of the prosthesis was (111.70±3.66) months, and the 7-year survival rate was 95.5%. The 7-year survival rates were 94.1% and 96.3% in patients with aseptic loosening and periprosthetic joint infection, respectively. The incidence of postoperative complications was 9.1% (4/44), among which the prosthesis related complications were 4.5% (2/44), 1 case of dislocation and 1 case of infection recurrence., Conclusion: Hip revision with SL-PLUS MIA stem has the advantages of simple operation and few postoperative complications in the patients with Paprosky type Ⅰ-Ⅲ femoral bone defect, and the medium- and long-term effectiveness is reliable.

Dietary salt is increasingly recognized as an independent risk factor for cognitive impairment. However, the exact mechanisms are not yet fully understood. Mitochondria, which play a crucial role in energy metabolism, are implicated in cognitive function through processes such as mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy. While mitochondrial dysfunction is acknowledged as a significant determinant of cognitive function, the specific relationship between salt-induced cognitive impairment and mitochondrial health has yet to be fully elucidated. Here, we explored the underlying mechanism of cognitive impairment of mice and N2a cells treated with high-salt focusing on the mitochondrial homeostasis with western blotting, immunofluorescence, electron microscopy, RNA sequencing, and more. We further explored the potential role of SIRT3 in salt-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and synaptic alteration through plasmid transfection and siRNA. High salt diet significantly inhibited mitochondrial fission and blocked mitophagy, leading to dysfunctional mitochondria and impaired synaptic plasticity. Our findings demonstrated that SIRT3 not only promote mitochondrial fission by modulating phosphorylated DRP1, but also rescue mitophagy through promoting PINK1/Parkin-dependent pathway. Overall, our data for the first time indicate that mitochondrial homeostasis imbalance is a driver of impaired synaptic plasticity in a cognitive impairment phenotype that is exacerbated by a long-term high-salt diet, and highlight the protective role of SIRT3 in this process., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Seminal plasma induces immune tolerance towards paternal allogenic antigens within the female reproductive tract and during foetal development. Recent evidence suggests a role for extracellular vesicles in seminal plasma (spEVs). We isolated spEVs from seminal plasma that was donated by vasectomized men, thereby excluding any contributions from the testis or epididymis. Previous analysis demonstrated that such isolated spEVs originate mainly from the prostate. Here we observed that when isolated fluorescently labelled spEVs were mixed with peripheral blood mononuclear cells, they were endocytosed predominantly by monocytes, and to a lesser extent also by T-cells. In a mixed lymphocyte reaction, T-cell proliferation was inhibited by spEVs. A direct effect of spEVs on T-cells was demonstrated when isolated T cells were activated by anti-CD3/CD28 coated beads. Again, spEVs interfered with T cell proliferation, as well as with the expression of CD25 and the release of IFN-γ, TNF, and IL-2. Moreover, spEVs stimulated the expression of Foxp3 and IL-10 by CD4+CD25+CD127- T cells, indicating differentiation into regulatory T-cells (Tregs). Prior treatment of spEVs with proteinase K revoked their effects on T-cells, indicating a requirement for surface-exposed spEV proteins. The adenosine A2A receptor-specific antagonist CPI-444 also reduced effects of spEVs on T-cells, consistent with the notion that the development of Tregs and their immune suppressive functions are under the influence of adenosine-A2A receptor signalling. We found that adenosine is highly enriched in spEVs and propose that spEVs are targeted to and endocytosed by T-cells, after which they may release their adenosine content into the lumen of endosomes, thus allowing endosome-localized A2A receptor signalling in spEVs targeted T-cells. Collectively, these data support the idea that spEVs can prime T cells directly for differentiation into Tregs., (© 2024 The Author(s). Journal of Extracellular Vesicles published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Society for Extracellular Vesicles.)

Purpose: Single-stage revision has gained significant attention as a major surgical approach for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). However, the 90-day mortality and complication profile of single-stage revision is poorly characterized. The purposes of this study were to determine the incidence rates of and identify the risk factors for 90-day postoperative mortality and complications of single-stage revision for chronic PJI., Methods: A retrospective review was conducted on patients who underwent single-stage revision for PJI between August 2000 and May 2022. Patient demographics, 90-day mortality, and postoperative complications were recorded. Complications were categorized into systemic and local complications. Patients in this study were further categorized into knee and hip revision groups. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify significant independent predictors of the outcome measures., Results: 348 patients (144 knees and 204 hips) were included in this study. The 90-day mortality rate was 0.9%. The incidence rates of postoperative complications in knee and hip surgeries were 31.3% and 19.6%, respectively. The most common complication was deep-vein thrombosis (DVT). Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) was the independent predictor of mortality. In the knee revision group, fungal infection was identified as the independent predictor of recurrent PJI; regular alcohol use was predictive of wound dehiscence. Among hip PJI patients, age ≥ 80 years was independently associated with DVT; RA was found to be a predictor of dislocation and wound dehiscence., Conclusion: For continuous and unselected patients with chronic PJI, single-stage revision demonstrated a satisfactory 90-day mortality. Nevertheless, the 90-day postoperative complication rates after single-stage revision in both knee and hip groups were relatively high., (© 2024. The Author(s) under exclusive licence to SICOT aisbl.)

Background: The use of long stems for severe femoral bone defects is suggested by many scholars, but it is associated with further bone loss, intraoperative fracture, increased surgical trauma, and complications. With better bone retention, simple and quick surgical procedures, and minimal complications, the short cementless stems with a tapered rectangular shape may be an alternative for femoral revision. This study aimed to evaluate the results of this type of stem in treating selected Paprosky II-IV bone defects., Methods: This retrospective study included 73 patients (76 hips involved) who underwent conservative femoral revision using the short cementless stems with a tapered rectangular shape between January 2012 and December 2020. The preoperative femoral bone defects were identified as follows: 54 cases of type II, 11 cases of type IIIA, 7 cases of type IIIB, and 4 cases of type IV. Indications for revision included aseptic loosening (76.3%) and prosthetic joint infection (23.7%). Six cementless stems with a tapered rectangular shape from three companies were used in all patients. Among them, SLR-Plus, SL-Plus MIA, and Corail stems were employed in most patients (40.8%, 23.7%, and 17.1%, respectively). The average length of these stems measured 171.7 mm (SD 27 mm; 122-215 mm). Radiographic results, Harris hip scores (HHS), complications, and survivorship were analyzed. The follow-up lasted for 7 years on average (range 3-11 years)., Results: The subsidence was observed in three hips (3.9%), and all stems achieved stable bone ingrowth. Proximal femoral bone restoration in the residual osteolytic area was found in 67 hips (88.2%), constant defects in nine hips (11.8%), and increasing defects in 0 cases. There was no evidence of stem fractures and stem loosening in this series. The mean HHS significantly improved from 32 (range 15-50) preoperatively to 82 (range 68-94) at the last follow-up (t = - 36.297, P < 0.001). Five hips developed prosthesis-related complications, including three infection and two dislocation cases. The mean 5- and 10-year revision-free survivorships for any revision or removal of an implant and reoperation for any reason were 94.6% and 93.3%, respectively. Both mean 5- and 10-year revision-free survivorships for aseptic femoral loosening were 100%., Conclusion: Conservative femoral revision using short cementless stems with a tapered rectangular shape can provide favorable radiographic outcomes, joint function, and mid-term survivorship with minimal complications. Of note, a sclerotic proximal femoral bone shell with continued and intact structure and enough support strength is the indication for using these stems., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

To enhance the inherent poor conductivity and low cycling stability of dimetallic layered double hydroxides (LDHs) materials, designing a synergistic effect between EDLC capacitors and pseudocapacitors is an efficient strategy. In this paper, we utilized a solvothermal technique employing Co-glycerate as a precursor to prepare sea urchin-like NiCo-LDH hollow spheres anchored on a 3D graphene aerogel. The unique morphology of these hollow microspheres significantly expand the specific surface area and exposes more active sites, while reducing the volume changes of materials during long-term charging and discharging processes. The 3D graphene aerogel serves as a conductive skeleton, improving the material's electrical conductivity and buffering high current. The sea urchin-like NiCo-LDH hollow spheres anchored on 3D graphene aerogel (H-NiCo-LDH@GA) has a specific surface area of 51 m 2  g -1 and the I D /I G value is 1.02. The H-NiCo-LDH@GA demonstrate a significant specific capacitance of 236.8 mAh g -1 at 1 A g -1 , with a remarkable capacity retention rate of 63.1 % even at 20 A g -1 . Even after 8000 cycles at 10 A g -1 , the capacity retention still remains at 96.3 %, presenting excellent cycling stability., (© 2024 Wiley-VCH GmbH.)

Numerous studies have suggested that intra-articular administration of antibiotics following primary revision surgery may be one of the methods for treating prosthetic joint infection (PJI). Vancomycin and meropenem are the two most commonly used antibiotics for local application. Determining the concentrations of vancomycin and meropenem in the serum and synovial fluid of patients with PJI plays a significant role in further optimizing local medication schemes and effectively eradicating biofilm infections. This study aimed to establish a rapid, sensitive, and accurate ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) method for determining the concentrations of vancomycin and meropenem in human serum and synovial fluid. Serum samples were processed using acetonitrile precipitation of proteins and dichloromethane extraction, while synovial fluid samples were diluted before analysis. Chromatographic separation was achieved in 6 min on a Waters Acquity UPLC BEH C18 column, with the mobile phase consisting of 0.1% formic acid in water (solvent A) and acetonitrile (solvent B). Quantification was carried out using a Waters XEVO TQD triple quadrupole mass spectrometer with an electrospray ionization (ESI) source in positive ion mode. The multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode was employed to detect the following quantifier ion transitions: 717.95-99.97 (norvancomycin), 725.90-100.04 (vancomycin), 384.16-67.99 (meropenem). The method validation conformed to the guidelines of the FDA and the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. The method demonstrated good linearity within the range of 0.5-50 μg/ml for serum and 0.5-100 μg/ml for synovial fluid. Selectivity, intra-day and inter-day precision and accuracy, extraction recovery, matrix effect, and stability validation results all met the required standards. This method has been successfully applied in the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) studies of patients with PJI., (© 2024 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background: Ischemia reperfusion (I/R) injury is a frequent occurrence during liver transplantation surgery, resulting from the temporary cessation of blood flow and subsequent restoration of blood flow. Serious I/R injury is a significant factor causing transplant failure. Hepatic I/R process is characterized by excessive inflammation, oxidation, and apoptosis. Crocetin (Crt) is a natural compound exhibiting beneficial roles in various I/R-induced organ damages. However, Crt's potential role in hepatic I/R remains unexplored., Objective and Methods: In order to reveal the impact of Crt on hepatic I/R and the associated signaling pathway, we utilized a syngeneic orthotopic liver transplantation rat model to induce hepatic I/R injury., Results: Pretreatment with Crt significantly mitigated hepatic I/R injury. This was evident by decreased activities of serum ALT, AST and LDH, indicating improved liver function. Crt treatment also alleviated oxidative stress, as demonstrated by decreased serum MDA content and elevated serum SOD and GSH-Px activities. Furthermore, Crt suppressed inflammatory responses by downregulating both the serum and liver IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α while upregulating IL-10 expression. Additionally, Crt reduced apoptosis by decreasing pro-apoptotic Bax, cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved caspase-9, while increasing anti-apoptotic Bcl2 expression. Notably, these protective effects of Crt were dose-dependent. Moreover, our data indicates that Crt plays protective functions during hepatic I/R via disrupting Keap1/Nrf2 interaction and activating Nrf2/HO-1 signaling. This was further supported by observations of alleviated hepatic histopathological changes in I/R rats treated with Crt., Conclusions: Crt shows potential as a therapeutic agent for preventing hepatic I/R injury during clinical liver transplantation., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury, resulting from blood flow interruption and its subsequent restoration, is a prevalent complication in liver surgery. The liver, as a crucial organ for carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, exhibits decreased tolerance to hepatic I/R in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), resulting in a significant increase in hepatic dysfunction following surgery. This may be attributed to elevated oxidative stress and inflammation. Our prior research established sinomenine's (SIN) protective role against hepatic I/R injury. Nevertheless, the impact of SIN on hepatic I/R injury in DM rats remains unexplored., Objective and Methods: This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of SIN in hepatic I/R injury in DM rats and elucidate its mechanism. Diabetic and hepatic I/R injury models were established in rats through high-fat/sugar diet, streptozotocin injection, and hepatic blood flow occlusion. Liver function, oxidative stress, inflammatory reaction, histopathology, and Nrf-2/HO-1 signaling pathway were evaluated by using UV spectrophotometry, biochemical assays, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, hematoxylin-eosin staining, and Western blot analysis., Results: High-dose SIN (300 mg/kg) significantly attenuated hepatic I/R injury in DM rats, reducing serum activities of ALT and AST, decreasing the AST/ALT ratio, enhancing tissue contents of SOD and GSH-Px, suppressing the levels of TNF-α and IL-6, improving the liver histopathology, and activating Nrf-2/HO-1 signaling by promoting Nrf-2 trans-location from cytoplasm to nucleus. Low-dose SIN (100 mg/kg) was ineffective., Conclusions: This study demonstrates that high-dose sinomenine's mitigates hepatic I/R-induced inflammation and oxidative stress in diabetes mellitus (DM) rats via Nrf-2/HO-1 activation, suggesting its potential as a preventive strategy for hepatic I/R injury in DM patients., (© 2024 The Authors. Immunity, Inflammation and Disease published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

The practical application of lithium-oxygen batteries (LOBs) with ultrahigh theoretical energy density faces the problems of poor kinetics and deficient reversibility. The electrolyte is of vital significance to the electrochemical stability and reaction pathway of LOBs due to the formation of soluble products. Here, a 15-crown-5 ether (15C5) is employed to regulate the solvation structure of Li + and manipulate the reaction mechanism through regulating the binding ability toward Li + . The promoted dissociation of LiNO 3 by 15C5 increases the catalytical active anions in the electrolyte and stabilizes the Li-containing reduced oxygen species to promote the solution pathway of discharge product growth. Besides, 15C5 also facilitates the kinetics of the electrochemical decomposition of Li 2 O 2 and prolongs the cycle life to 178 cycles. This work inspires a novel approach to improve the battery performance through electrolyte component design.

Thick electrodes with high mass loading and increased content of active materials are critical for achieving higher energy density in contemporary lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Nonetheless, producing thick electrodes through the commonly used slurry coating technology remains a formidable challenge. In this study, we have addressed this challenge by developing a dry electrode technology by using ultralong multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) as a conductive additive and secondary binder. The mixing process of electrode compositions and the fibrillation process of the polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) binder were optimized. The resulting LiCoO 2 (LCO) electrode exhibited a remarkable mass loading of 48 mg cm -2 and an active material content of 95 wt %. Notably, the thick LCO electrode demonstrated a superior mechanical strength and electrochemical performance. After 100 cycles at a current density of 1/3 C, the electrode still exhibited a capacity retention of 91% of its initial capacity. This dry electrode technology provides a practicable and scalable approach to the powder-to-film LIB electrode manufacturing process.

Aims and Objectives: Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) has been found to possess anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties, but its effect on atrial fibrosis is yet to be determined. This research investigates the protective role of AS-IV in angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced atrial fibrosis and atrial fibrillation (AF)., Methods: C57BL/6 male mice aged 8-10 weeks (n = 40) were subcutaneously administered Ang II (2.0 mg/kg/day) or saline, with AS-IV (80 mg/kg) intraperitoneally administered 2 h before Ang II infusion for 4 weeks. Biochemical, histological, and morphological analyses were carried out. Using transesophageal burst pacing, AF was generated in vivo., Results: Here, we report that AS-IV treatment inhibited Ang II-induced AF development in mice (58 ± 5.86 vs 15.13 ± 2.16 %, p < 0.001). Ang II + AS-IV therapy was effective in reducing the atrial fibrotic area and decreasing the increase in smooth muscle alpha-actin (α-SMA)-positive myofibroblasts brought on by Ang II treatment (fibrotic area: 26.25 ± 3.81 vs 8.62 ± 1.83 %, p < 0.001 and α-SMA: 65.62 ± 10.63 vs 17.25 ± 1.78 %, p < 0.001). The reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was reduced by pretreatment with Ang II + AS-IV (9.20 ± 0.92 vs 2.63 ± 0.22 %/sec, p < 0.001). In addition, Ang II + AS-IV treatment suppressed oxidative stress in Ang II-induced atrial fibrosis (malondialdehyde: 701.78 ± 85.01 vs 504.07 ± 25.62 pmol/mg protein, p < 0.001; superoxide dismutase: 13.82 ± 1.25 vs 29.54 ± 2.45 U/mg protein, p < 0.001 and catalase: 11.43 ± 1.19 vs 20.83 ± 3.29 U/mg protein, p < 0.001, respectively). Moreover, Ang II + AS-IV decreased the expression of α-SMA, collagen III and collagen I (3.32 ± 0.53 vs 1.41 ± 0.20 fold, p < 0.001; 3.41 ± 0.55 vs 1.48 ± 0.18 fold, p < 0.001; 2.34 ± 0.55 vs 0.99 ± 0.17 fold, p < 0.001, respectively) while increasing the protein expression of sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator-1 alpha (PGC-1α), and fibronectin type III domain-containing protein 5 (FNDC5) in Ang II-treated mice (0.22 ± 0.02 vs 0.57 ± 0.08 fold, p < 0.001; 0.28 ± 0.04 vs 0.72 ± 0.05 fold, p < 0.001; 0.38 ± 0.03 vs 0.68 ± 0.06 fold, p < 0.001, respectively)., Conclusion: Our data led us to speculate that AS-IV may protect against Ang II-induced atrial fibrosis and AF via upregulation of the SIRT1/PGC-1α/FNDC5 pathway., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2024 The Authors.)

The strong antimicrobial resistance (AMR) of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria and biofilm, especially the biofilm with extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) protection and persister cells, not only renders antibiotics ineffective but also causes chronic infections and makes the infectious tissue difficult to repair. Considering the acidic properties of bacterial infection microenvironment and biofilm, herein, a binary graphene oxide and copper iron sulfide nanocomposite (GO/CuFeS x NC) is synthesized by a surfactant free strategy and utilized as an alternative smart nanozyme to fight against the MDR bacteria and biofilm. For the GO/CuFeS x NC, the iron decoration facilitates the well distribution of bimetallic CuFeS x NPs on the GO surfaces compared to monometallic CuS NPs, providing synergistically enhanced peroxidase (POD)-like activity in acidic medium (pH 4 ∼ 5) and intrinsic strong near infrared (NIR) light responsive photothermal activity, while the ultrathin and sharp structure of 2D GO nanosheet allows the GO/CuFeS x NC to strongly interact with the bacteria and biofilm, facilitating the catalytic and photothermal attacks on the bacterial surfaces. In addition, the GO in GO/CuFeS x NC exhibits a "Pseudo-Photo-Fenton" effect to promote the ROS generation. Therefore, the GO/CuFeS x NC can effectively kill bacteria and biofilm both in vitro and in vivo, finally eliminating the infections and accelerating the tissue repair when treating the biofilm-infected wound. This work paves a new way to the design of novel nanozyme for smart antibacterial therapy against antimicrobial resistance., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Estimation of knee contact force (KCF) during gait provides essential information to evaluate knee joint function. Machine learning has been employed to estimate KCF because of the advantages of low computational cost and real-time. However, the existing machine learning models do not adequately consider gait-related data's temporal-dependent, multidimensional, and highly heterogeneous nature. This study is aimed at developing a multisource fusion recurrent neural network to predict the medial condyle KCF. First, a multisource fusion long short-term memory (MF-LSTM) model was established. Then, we developed a transfer learning strategy based on the MF-LSTM model for subject-specific medial KCF prediction. Four subjects with instrumented tibial prostheses were obtained from the literature. The results showed that the MF-LSTM model could predict medial KCF to a certain high level of accuracy (the mean of ρ = 0.970). The transfer learning model improved the prediction accuracy (the mean of ρ = 0.987). This study shows that the MF-LSTM model is a powerful and accurate computational tool for medial KCF prediction. Introducing transfer learning techniques could further improve the prediction performance for the target subject. This coupling strategy can help clinicians accurately estimate and track joint contact forces in real time., (© 2024. International Federation for Medical and Biological Engineering.)

Monitoring the temperature of the coal gangue mountains is fundamental to preventing their spontaneous combustion. However, the existing temperature monitoring systems fail to achieve stable, pollution-free temperature monitoring without affecting vegetation growth in these mountains. To address this issue, this work proposes a flexible thermoelectric device (FTD) based on a protrusion-structured liquid metal elastomer (LME). Utilizing a high-thermal-conductivity LME, the FTD adheres closely to the surface of the gravity heat pipe (GHP), ensuring compatibility between FTD and the curved surface of the GHP. Simultaneously, employing a low-thermal-conductivity elastomer helps concentrate heat onto FTD, thereby enhancing thermoelectric power generation efficiency. Additionally, the impact of the shape, size, and height of the protrusion structure at the cold end of the GHP on its efficiency was also investigated. The practical application of FTD on GHP was demonstrated.

The low ionic conductivity of LiCoO 2 limits the rate performance of the overall electrode. Here, a polymeric composite binder composed of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) and poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) is reported to efficiently improve the ion transport in the LiCoO 2 electrode. This is where the lithium-ion transport channel constructed by oxygen atoms of PEO can afford the electrode a lithium-ion transport number ( t Li + ) as high as 0.70 with the optimized composite binder in a mass ratio of 1:1 (O5F5), significantly higher than that of traditional PVDF (0.44). As a result, the O5F5 binder endows the LiCoO 2 electrode with an impressive capacity of 90 mAh g -1 even at 15 C, which is twice as high as the PVDF electrode. In addition, the initial Coulombic efficiency of the LiCoO 2 electrode with the O5F5 binder is close to 100% and the capacity retention is 91% after 100 cycles at 1 C. This study overcomes the problem of slow ion conductivity of the LiCoO 2 electrode, providing an easy method for developing high-rate cathode binders.

Aqueous Zn ion-based fiber-shaped batteries (AZFBs) with the merits of high flexibility and safety have received much attention for powering wearable electronic devices. However, the relatively low specific capacity provided by cathode materials limits their practical application. Herein, we first propose a simple strategy for fabricating high-capacity Zn-iodine fiber-shaped batteries with a high concentration electrolyte and a reduced graphene oxide fiber (GF) cathode. It was found that oxygen functional groups in the graphene sheet demonstrate strong interaction with polyiodides but hinder electron conductivity; thus, the optimal balance between the specific capacity and coulombic efficiency of the GF electrode can be a function of the surface properties at different hydrothermal temperatures. Besides, the regulated high concentration electrolyte effectively suppresses the diffusion of polyiodides, which is attributed to the constrained freedom of water. More importantly, a four-electron redox mechanism was experimentally revealed through in situ Raman spectra. As a result, this fiber-shaped battery delivers a superior high reversible capacity of 390 mA h cm -3 at 1 A cm -3 , an excellent rate performance of 125.7 mA h cm -3 at a high current density of 8 A cm -3 and outstanding cycling life with 82% capacitance retention after 2500 cycles.

Changes in structural characteristics and antioxidant activity of tilapia hydrolysate glycated with glucose, fructose, or xylose at 90 °C for 12 h, and following in vitro gastrointestinal (GI) digestion were investigated. Fourier-transformed infrared (FTIR) band between 1,800 and 1,400 cm -1 confirmed the structural modifications of hydrolysate under glycations. Glycation drastically increased ATBS · + and ONOO - scavenging activities ( p  < 0.05) as well as ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). Xylose was the most effective sugar for glycation, yielding the highest chemical antioxidant activities ( p  < 0.05). However, glycated hydrolysates exhibited lower cellular antioxidant activity (CAA) on HepG2 cell when compared to hydrolysates. The extensive glycation of hydrolysates resulted in lower GI digestibility as confirmed by the FTIR spectra of C[bond, double bond]O, C-N, N-H, C-C, C-O, and C-H stretching vibrations. Glycation of tilapia hydrolysates only improved chemical antioxidant activities, but alleviated CAA, especially upon simulated GI digestion., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2024 The Authors.)

Electrochromic materials and devices with the capability of dynamic optical regulation have attracted considerable attention recently and have shown a variety of potential applications including energy-efficient smart windows, multicolor displays, atuto-diming mirrors, military camouflage, and adaptive thermal management due to the advantages of active control, wide wavelength modulation, and low energy consumption. However, its development still experiences a number of issues such as long response time and inadequate durability. Nanostructuring has demonstrated that it is an effective strategy to improve the electrochromic performance of the materials due to the increased reaction active sites and the reduced ion diffusion distance. Various advanced inorganic nanomaterials with high electrochromic performance have been developed recently, significantly contributing to the development of electrochromic applications. In this review, we systematically introduce and discuss the recent advances in advanced inorganic nanomaterials including zero-, one-, and two-dimensional materials for high-performance electrochromic applications. Finally, we outline the current major challenges and our perspectives for the future development of nanostructured electrochromic materials and applications.

Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) are becoming an alternative option for large-scale energy storage systems owing to their low cost and abundance. The lattice oxygen redox (LOR), which has the potential to increase the reversible capacity of materials, has promoted the development of high-energy cathode materials in SIBs. However, the utilization of oxygen anion redox reactions usually results in harmful lattice oxygen release, which hastens structural deformation and declines electrochemical performance, severely hindering their practical application. Herein, a ribbon-ordered superstructured P3-type Na 0.6 Li 0.2 Mn 0.8 O 2 (NLMO) cathode with a uniform Al 2 O 3 coating through atomic layer deposition (ALD) was synthesized. The cycling stability and rate capability of the materials were improved by a proper thickness of the Al 2 O 3 layer. Differential electrochemical mass spectrometry (DEMS) results clearly suggest that the Al 2 O 3 coating can inhibit the CO 2 release caused by the highly active surface of the NLMO material. Moreover, the results of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and etching X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) show that the Al 2 O 3 coating can effectively prevent electrolyte and electrode side reactions and the dissolution of Mn. This surface engineering strategy sheds light on the way to prolong the cycling stability of anionic redox cathode materials.

Lithium-ion thermoelectrochemical cell (LTEC), featuring simultaneous energy conversion and storage, has emerged as promising candidate for low-grade heat harvesting. However, relatively poor thermosensitivity and heat-to-current behavior limit the application of LTECs using LiPF 6 electrolyte. Introducing additives into bulk electrolyte is a reasonable strategy to solve such problem by modifying the solvation structure of electrolyte ions. In this work, we develop a dual-salt electrolyte with fluorosurfactant (FS) additive to achieve high thermopower and durability of LTECs during the conversion of low-grade heat into electricity. The addition of FS induces a unique Li + solvation with the aggregated double anions through a crowded electrolyte environment, resulting in an enhanced mobility kinetics of Li + as well as boosted thermoelectrochemical performances. By coupling optimized electrolyte with graphite electrode, a high thermopower of 13.8 mV K -1 and a normalized output power density of 3.99 mW m -2  K -2 as well as an outstanding output energy density of 607.96 J m -2 can be obtained. These results demonstrate that the optimization of electrolyte by regulating solvation structure will inject new vitality into the construction of thermoelectrochemical devices with attractive properties., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Objectives: Corilagin (Cor) is reported as beiing hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-oxidant, while the effect on atrial fibrosis remains unknown. Therefore, we investigated the protective effect of Cor in angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced atrial fibrosis and atrial fibrillation (AF)., Materials and Methods: C57BL/6 mice (male, 8-10 weeks, n = 40) were subcutaneously infused either with saline or Ang II (2.0 mg/kg/day) and Cor (30 mg/kg) intraperitoneally injected 2 hr before Ang II infusion for 4 weeks. Mice were grouped into the control group (n=8), Cor group (n=8), Ang II group (n=8), and Ang II + Cor group (n=8). Morphological, histological, and biochemical examinations were performed. In vivo , transesophageal burst pacing was used to generate AF., Results: Cor treatment markedly reduced Ang II-induced AF development in mice. Ang II + Cor therapy potentially decreased the atrial fibrotic area. It significantly decreased the increase in smooth muscle alpha-actin (α-SMA), CTGF, Collagen I, and Collagen III expressions brought on by Ang II treatment. Moreover, Ang II + Cor treatment remarkably decreased the malondialdehyde (MDA) content, whereas superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities were potentially increased (all, P <0.001). In addition, Ang II + Cor significantly reduced Ang II-induced interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) concentrations in atrial tissues. Furthermore, Cor significantly inhibited Ang II-induced p-PI3K, p-Akt, and NF-κB p-p65 protein expression in atrial tissues., Conclusion: Our data speculated that Cor could have a protective effect against Ang II-induced atrial fibrosis and AF via down-regulation of the PI3K-Akt pathway., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflicts of interest with other people or organizations.

Objectives: Slit guidance ligand 3 (SLIT3) has been identified as a potential therapeutic regulator against fibroblast activity and fibrillary collagen production in an autocrine manner. However, this research aims to investigate the potential role of SLIT3 in cardiac fibrosis and fibroblast differentiation and its underlying mechanism., Materials and Methods: C57BL/6 mice (male, 8-10 weeks, n=47) were subcutaneously infused with Ang II (2.0 mg/kg/day) for 4 weeks. One to two-day-old Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were anesthetized by intraperitoneal injection of 1% pentobarbital sodium (60 mg/kg) and ketamine (50 mg/kg) and the cardiac fibroblast was isolated aseptically. The mRNA and protein expression were analyzed using RT-qPCR and Western blotting., Results: The SLIT3 expression level was increased in Ang II-induced mice models and cardiac fibroblasts. SLIT3 significantly increased migrated cells and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression in cardiac fibroblasts. Ang II-induced increases in mRNA expression of collagen I (COL1A1), and collagen III (COL3A1) was attenuated by SLIT3 inhibition. SLIT3 knockdown attenuated the Ang II-induced increase in mRNA expression of ACTA2 (α-SMA), Fibronectin, and CTGF. SLIT3 suppression potentially reduced DHE expression and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and the superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) levels were significantly increased in cardiac fibroblasts. Additionally, SLIT3 inhibition markedly decreased RhoA and ROCK1 protein expression, whereas ROCK inhibitor Y-27632 (10 μM) markedly attenuated the migration of cardiac fibroblasts stimulated by Ang II and SLIT3., Conclusion: The results speculate that SLIT3 could significantly regulate cardiac fibrosis and fibroblast differentiation via the RhoA/ROCK1 signaling pathway., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflicts of interest, financial or with other people or organizations.

The high dissolution of polyiodides and unstable interface at the anode/electrolyte severely restrict the practical applications of rechargeable aqueous Zn-iodine batteries. Herein, we develop a zinc ion-based montmorillonite (ZMT) electrolyte membrane for synergizing ion sieve and solvation regulation to achieve highly stable Zn-iodine batteries. The rich M-O band and special cation-selective transport channel in ZMT locally tailor the solvation sheath around Zn 2+ and therefore achieve high transference number ( t + = 0.72), benefiting for uniform and reversible deposition/stripping of Zn. Meanwhile, the mechanisms for three-step polyiodide generation and shuttle-induced Zn corrosion are highlighted by in situ characterization techniques. It is confirmed that the strong chemical adsorption between O atoms in ZMT and polyiodides species is the key to effectively inhibit the shuffle effect and side reactions. Consequently, the ZMT-based Zn-iodine battery delivers a high capacity of 0.45 mAh cm -2 at 1 mA cm -2 with a much improved Coulombic efficiency of 99.5% and outstanding capacity retention of 95% after 13 500 cycles at 10 mA cm -2 . Moreover, owing to its high durability and chemical inertness and structural stability, ZMT-based electrolyte membranes can be recycled and applied in double-sided pouch cells, delivering a high areal capacity of 2.4 mAh cm -2 at 1 mA cm -2 .

Reconstructing three-dimensional (3D) models from two-dimensional (2D) images is necessary for preoperative planning and the customization of joint prostheses. However, the traditional statistical modeling reconstruction shows a low accuracy due to limited 3D characteristics and information loss. In this study, we proposed a new method to reconstruct the 3D models of femoral images by combining a statistical shape model with Laplacian surface deformation, which greatly improved the accuracy of the reconstruction. In this method, a Laplace operator was introduced to represent the 3D model derived from the statistical shape model. By coordinate transformations in the Laplacian system, novel skeletal features were established and the model was accurately aligned with its 2D image. Finally, 50 femoral models were utilized to verify the effectiveness of this method. The results indicated that the precision of the method was improved by 16.8%-25.9% compared with the traditional statistical shape model reconstruction. Therefore, the method we proposed allows a more accurate 3D bone reconstruction, which facilitates the development of personalized prosthesis design, precise positioning, and quick biomechanical analysis.

Ionic and electronic transport in electrodes is crucial for electrochemical energy storage technology. To optimize the transport pathway of ions and electrons, electrode materials are minimized to nanometer-sized dimensions, leading to problems of volumetric performance, stability, cost, and pollution. Here we find that a bulk hexagonal molybdenum oxide with unconventional ion channels can store large amounts of protons at a high rate even if its particle size is tens of micrometers. The diffusion-free proton transport kinetics based on hydrogen bonding topochemistry is demonstrated in hexagonal molybdenum oxide whose proton conductivity is several orders of magnitude higher than traditional orthorhombic molybdenum oxide. In situ X-ray diffraction and theoretical calculation reveal that the structural self-optimization in the first discharge effectively promotes the reversible intercalation/de-intercalation of subsequent protons. The open crystal structure, suitable proton channels, and negligible volume strain enable rapid and stable proton transport and storage, resulting in extremely high volumetric capacitance (~1750 F cm -3 ), excellent rate performance, and ultralong cycle life (>10,000 cycles). The discovery of unconventional materials and mechanisms that enable proton storage of micrometer-sized particles in seconds boosts the development of fast-charging energy storage systems and high-power practical applications., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

As a common clinical disease, fracture is often accompanied by pain, swelling, bleeding as well as other symptoms and has a high disability rate, even threatening life, seriously endangering patients' physical and psychological health and quality of life. Medical practitioners take many strategies for the treatment of fracture healing, including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). In the early stage of fracture healing, the local fracture is often in a state of hypoxia, accompanied by the expression of hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), which is beneficial to wound healing. Through literature mining, we thought that hypoxia, HIF-1α and downstream factors affected the mechanism of fracture healing, as well as dominated this process. Therefore, we reviewed the local characteristics and related signaling pathways involved in the fracture healing process and summarized the intervention of TCM on these mechanisms, in order to inspirit the new strategy for fracture healing, as well as elaborate on the possible principles of TCM in treating fractures based on the HIF molecular mechanism., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2023 Tianjin Press of Chinese Herbal Medicines. Published by ELSEVIER B.V.)

Objective: To investigate the accuracy, safety, and short-term effectiveness of a domestic robot-assisted system in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) by a multicenter randomized controlled trial., Methods: Between December 2021 and February 2023, 138 patients with knee osteoarthritis who received TKA in 5 clinical centers were prospectively collected, and 134 patients met the inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to either a trial group ( n =68) or a control group ( n =66). Seven patients had lost follow-up and missing data, so they were excluded and the remaining 127 patients were included for analysis, including 66 patients in the trial group and 61 patients in the control group. There was no significant difference ( P >0.05) in gender, age, body mass index, side, duration of osteoarthritis, Kellgren-Lawrence grading, preoperative Knee Society Score (KSS) and Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) score between the two groups. The trial group completed the TKA by domestic robot-assisted osteotomy according to the preoperative CT-based surgical planning. The control group was performed by traditional osteotomy plate combined with soft tissue release. Total operation time, osteotomy time of femoral/tibial side, intraoperative blood loss, and postoperative complications were recorded and compared between the two groups. The radiographs were taken at 5 and 90 days after operation, and hip-knee-ankle angle (HKA), lateral distal angle of femur (LDFA), and posterior tibial slope (PTS) were measured. The difference between the measured values of the above indexes at two time points after operation and the preoperative planning target values was calculated, and the absolute value (absolute error) was taken for comparison between the two groups. The postoperative recovery of lower limb alignment was judged and the accuracy was calculated. KSS score and WOMAC score were used to evaluate the knee joint function of patients before operation and at 90 days after operation. The improvement rates of KSS score and WOMAC score were calculated. The function, stability, and convenience of the robot-assisted system were evaluated by the surgeons., Results: The total operation time and femoral osteotomy time of the trial group were significantly longer than those of the control group ( P <0.05). There was no significant difference in the tibial osteotomy time and the amount of intraoperative blood loss between the two groups ( P> 0.05). The incisions of both groups healed by first intention after operation, and there was no infection around the prosthesis. Nine patients in the trial group and 8 in the control group developed lower extremity vascular thrombosis, all of which were calf intermuscular venous thrombosis, and there was no significant difference in the incidence of complications ( P >0.05). All patients were followed up 90 days. There was no significant difference in KSS score and WOMAC score between the two groups at 90 days after operation ( P >0.05). There was significant difference in the improvement rate of KSS score between the two groups ( P <0.05), while there was no significant difference in the improvement rate of WOMAC score between the two groups ( P >0.05). Radiological results showed that the absolute errors of HKA and LDFA in the trial group were significantly smaller than those in the control group at 5 and 90 days after operation ( P <0.05), and the recovery accuracy of lower limb alignment was significantly higher than that in control group ( P <0.05). The absolute error of PTS in the trial group was significantly smaller than that in the control group at 5 days after operation ( P <0.05), but there was no significant difference at 90 days between the two groups ( P >0.05). The functional satisfaction rate of the robot-assisted system was 98.5% (65/66), and the satisfaction rates of stability and convenience were 100% (66/66)., Conclusion: Domestic robot-assisted TKA is a safe and effective surgical treatment for knee osteoarthritis, which can achieve favorable lower limb alignment reconstruction, precise implant of prosthesis, and satisfactory functional recovery.

There is great difficulty in quickly calculating the impingement-free range of motion (IFROM) of hip components with complex shapes after total hip arthroplasty. We have established a new algorithm to investigate the effect of different shapes of hip components on the IFROM and impingement-free safe zone (IFSZ). Then find the best combination of hip prosthesis and the optimal mounting position of the elevated-rim liner under different radiographic anteversion (RA) and radiographic inclination (RI) of the cup. We found the larger the opening angle of the beveled-rim liner and the smaller the cross-sectional area of the stem neck with an inverted teardrop cross-sectional shape, the greater the IFROM of the hip component. The beveled-rim liner in combination with the stem neck with an inverted teardrop-shaped cross-section could provide the greatest IFSZ (excluding the flat-rim liner). The optimal orientation of the elevated-rim liner was the posterior-inferior side (RI ≤ 37°), posterior-superior side (RI ≥ 45°), and posterior side (37° ≤ RI ≤ 45°). Our novel algorithm provides a solution to analyze the IFROM of any hip prosthesis with any complex shape. The shape and size of the cross-section of the stem neck, the orientation of the elevated rim, and the shape and opening angle of the liner are all critical factors for the quantitative calculation of the IFROM and mounting safe zone of the prosthesis. Stem necks with inverted teardrop cross-section and beveled-rim liner improved the IFSZ. The optimal direction of the elevated rim is not constant but varies with RI and RA., (© 2023 Orthopaedic Research Society.)

Flexible power supply devices provide possibilities for wearable electronics in the Internet of Things. However, unsatisfying capacity or lifetime of typical batteries or capacitors seriously limit their practical applications. Different from conventional heat-to-electricity generators, zinc ion thermal charging cells has been a competitive candidate for the self-power supply solution, but the lack of promising cathode materials has restricted the achievement of promising performances. Herein, we propose an attractive cathode material by rational heterostructure engineering of hydrated vanadium pentoxide. Owing to the integration of thermodiffusion and thermoextraction effects, the thermopower is significantly improved from 7.8 ± 2.6 mV K -1 to 23.4 ± 1.5 mV K -1 . Moreover, an impressive normalized power density of 1.9 mW m -2 K -2 is achieved in the quasi-solid-state cells. In addition, a wearable power supply constructed by three units can drive the commercial health monitoring system by harvesting body heat. This work demonstrates the effectiveness of electrodes design for wearable thermoelectric applications., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) have potential as substitutes for liquid electrolytes in lithium-metal batteries (LMBs). Their semi-solid state also makes GPEs suitable for various applications, including wearables and flexible electronics. Here, we report the initiation of ring-opening polymerization of 1,3-dioxolane (DOL) by Lewis acid and the introduction of diluent 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethyl 2,2,3,3-tetrafluoropropyl ether (TTE) to regulate electrolyte structure for a more stable interface. This diluent-blended GPE exhibits enhanced electrochemical stability and ion transport properties compared to a blank version without it. FTIR and NMR proved the effectiveness of monomer polymerization and further determined the molecular weight distribution of polymerization by gel permeation chromatography (GPC). Experimental and simulation results show that the addition of TTE enhances ion association and tends to distribute on the anode surface to construct a robust and low-impedance SEI. Thus, the polymer battery achieves 5 C charge-discharge at room temperature and 200 cycles at low temperature -20 °C. The study presents an effective approach for regulating solvation structures in GPEs, promoting advancements in the future design of GPE-based LMBs., (© 2023 Wiley-VCH GmbH.)

The composite fretting-corrosion damage due to combinations of radial, tangential, rotational, and other fretting causes local adverse tissue reactions and failure of artificial joints. Previous studies have mainly focused on the single fretting mode, while ignoring the coupled effects of multimode fretting. The fretting-corrosion mechanisms between the components are not yet fully understood. In this study, the tangential-radial composite fretting was realized by applying a normal alternating load to the tangential fretting. The composite fretting corrosion behavior of zirconia toughened alumina ceramic/Ti6Al4V alloy used for the head-neck interface of an artificial hip joint under simulated body fluid was investigated. The effects of displacement and alternating load amplitude were considered. The alternating load amplitude was given by the maximum normal load and minimum normal load ratio R. The results showed that the composite fretting damage mechanisms of this pair were mainly abrasion and tribocorrosion. Cracking also existed under large displacement. The effect of alternating load on fretting corrosion was found to be mainly caused by changes in the contact area and instantaneous contact state. In addition, the alternating load during the composite fretting promoted the formation of the three-body layer in the contact area. A decrease in load ratio caused fretting to change from gross to partial slip. In the case of small displacement, the load ratio had little effect on the friction work or wear scar profile. The corrosion rate of materials and the concentration of metal ions released into the solution increased as load ratio decreased. In cases of large and medium displacement, load ratio reduction increased the friction work and expanded the wear scar. The reduction in load ratio also caused the corrosion rate of the material to increase and then decrease, and the metal ion concentration decreased., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare no possible conflict of interests., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R)-induced cardiomyocyte cell apoptosis is critical in developing myocardial infarction. Stachydrine (STA), an active constituent of Leonurus heterophyllus sweet, could have a protective effect on myocardial H/R injury, which remains unexplored. Therefore, the study aimed to investigate the protective effects and mechanisms of STA on H/R injury of cardiomyocytes., Methods: Rat cardiomyocyte H9c2 cells underwent H/R (hypoxia for 4 h and reoxygenation for 12 h). Cells were pretreated with STA (50 µM) 2 h before H/R. Cardiomyocyte injury was evaluated by CCK-8 assay and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release. Apoptosis was assessed by TUNEL staining and caspase-3 activity. Oxidative stress was assessed by lipid oxidation product MDA and a ROS-scavenging enzyme SOD in culture media. Western blot was performed to measure the protein expressions of SIRT1, Nrf2, and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1)., Results: STA reversed the decrease in cell viability and increased LDH release in H9c2 cells with the H/R insult. STA significantly suppressed oxidative stress, reduced MDA content, and increased SOD activity in H9c2 cells exposed to H/R. STA reduced apoptosis in H9c2 cells exposed to H/R, as evidenced by the reduced TUNEL positive cells and caspase-3 activity. In addition, STA enhanced SIRT1, Nrf2, and HO-1 protein expression in H/R-stimulated H9c2 cells. SIRT1 and Nrf2 involved the protective effect of STA in H/R-exposed H9c2 cells, as the changes in cell viability and caspase-3 activity by STA can be reversed by SIRT1 inhibitor EX-527 or Nrf2 siRNA., Conclusions: Our data speculated that STA protects H/R injury and inhibits oxidative stress and apoptosis in cardiomyocytes by activation of the SIRT1-Nrf2 pathway., (© 2023. BioMed Central Ltd., part of Springer Nature.)

Introduction: Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) abuse poses an overwhelming threat to the allocation of medical resources and places a heavy burden on global medical expenses. In this study, we put forward our prospective prescription review system and evaluated the effects of this system on clinical outcomes, rational medication use and costs related to PPIs., Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted in which the included patients were divided into a preintervention group (2019.10-2020.09) and a postintervention group (2020.10-2021.09). To reduce the bias of patients' baseline characteristics, the propensity score matching (PSM) method was employed. The primary endpoints were the incidence of stress ulcers (SUs), the improvement and cure rates of gastrointestinal haemorrhage, the defined daily dose (DDD), the drug utilization index (DUI) and the DDD/100 patient-days. The secondary endpoints included the types of unreasonable medication orders for PPIs, the PPI utilization rate and PPI costs., Results: A total of 53,870 patients were included to evaluate the secondary endpoints, and 46,922 patients were paired by PSM and assessed to evaluate the primary endpoints. The number of PPIs used and PPI costs were significantly lower in the postintervention group than in the preintervention group (P < 0.001). The rationality evaluation results showed that the frequency of PPI use and the number of drug interactions were significantly higher in the preintervention group than in the postintervention group (P < 0.01). The proportion of patients taking oral PPIs was significantly increased in the postintervention group (29.30% vs. 34.56%, p < 0.01). For the utilization of PPIs both for prevention and treatment, the DUI and DDD/100 patient-days were substantially decreased in the postintervention group (P < 0.001 and P < 0.05, respectively). The incidence of SUs in the postintervention group was 44.95%, and that in the preintervention group was 51.93% (p < 0.05)., Conclusion: The implementation of the prospective prescription review system on rational PPI use correlated with reduced PPI costs, more rational PPI medication use and better clinical outcomes, and this system is worthy of long-term implementation for further improvement of rational drug use., (© 2023. BioMed Central Ltd., part of Springer Nature.)

Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of one-stage total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in the treatment of advanced active knee tuberculosis., Methods: The clinical data of 38 patients with advanced active knee tuberculosis who received one-stage TKA between January 2011 and December 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 20 males and 18 females. The age ranged from 20 to 84 years, with an average of 52.8 years. The body mass index ranged from 17 to 36 kg/m 2 , with an average of 23.05 kg/m 2 . The preoperative C reactive protein (CRP) was (23.49±4.72) mg/L, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) was (45.95±8.82) mm/1 h. The Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) score was 48.8±9.1. During the operation, the infected lesions of the knee joint were completely removed, and the operative area was repeatedly soaked with 3% hydrogen peroxide solution and 0.5% povidone iodine solution. The intraoperative pathological examination confirmed the tuberculosis of the knee joint, and systemic anti-tuberculosis treatment was performed. The operation time, postoperative hospitalization stay, postoperative anti-tuberculosis chemotherapy time, and complications were recorded. CRP and ESR were recorded and compared before and after operation. Anteroposterior and lateral X-ray films of the knee joint were taken to evaluate whether the prosthesis had signs of loosening and sinking, and to determine whether there was recurrence of tuberculosis. The knee joint function was evaluated by HSS score. With treatment failure due to any reason as the end event, the survival time of prosthesis was analyzed by Kaplan-Meier survival curve., Results: All operations were successfully completed without fracture, vascular and nerve injury, deep vein thrombosis, and other complications. All incisions healed by first intention after operation. The operation time ranged from 80 to 135 minutes, with an average of 102.76 minutes; postoperative hospitalization stay was 5-16 days, with an average of 9.7 days; the duration of postoperative anti-tuberculosis chemotherapy ranged from 1 to 18 months, and the median duration was 12 months. All 38 cases were followed up 3-133 months (mean, 63.7 months). At last follow-up, CRP was (4.88±1.24) mg/L and ESR was (13.00±2.97) mm/1 h, both of which were significantly lower than those before operation ( t =20.647, P <0.001; t =20.886, P <0.001). During the follow-up, 3 patients (7.89%) had tuberculosis recurrence. Two patients had tuberculosis recurrence due to withdrawal of anti-tuberculosis chemotherapy at 1 and 2 months after operation, respectively. One patient was cured after debridement, preservation of prosthesis and anti-tuberculosis chemotherapy for 12 months, and 1 patient was cured after oral administration of anti-tuberculosis drugs for 12 months. Another 1 patient had recurrent tuberculosis and mixed infection ( Corynebacterium gehreni ) at 2 months after operation, and the infection was not controlled after debridement, and finally the thigh was amputated. Except for the patients with recurrent infection, no complications such as prosthesis loosening, periprosthetic fracture, and periprosthetic infection were found. At last follow-up, the HSS score of the knee joint was 86.8±4.8, and the knee joint function significantly improved when compared with that before operation ( t =-31.198, P <0.001). Prosthesis survival time was (122.57±5.77) months [95% CI (111.25, 133.88) months], and the 10-year survival rate was 92.1%., Conclusion: One-stage TKA combined with postoperative antituberculous chemotherapy in the treatment of advanced active knee tuberculosis can achieve satisfactory infection control and joint function.

Aims: To investigate the optimal thresholds and diagnostic efficacy of commonly used serological and synovial fluid detection indexes for diagnosing periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) in patients who have rheumatoid arthritis (RA)., Methods: The data from 348 patients who had RA or osteoarthritis (OA) and had previously undergone a total knee (TKA) and/or a total hip arthroplasty (THA) (including RA-PJI: 60 cases, RA-non-PJI: 80 cases; OA-PJI: 104 cases, OA-non-PJI: 104 cases) were retrospectively analyzed. A receiver operating characteristic curve was used to determine the optimal thresholds of the CRP, ESR, synovial fluid white blood cell count (WBC), and polymorphonuclear neutrophil percentage (PMN%) for diagnosing RA-PJI and OA-PJI. The diagnostic efficacy was evaluated by comparing the area under the curve (AUC) of each index and applying the results of the combined index diagnostic test., Results: For PJI prediction, the results of serological and synovial fluid indexes were different between the RA-PJI and OA-PJI groups. The optimal cutoff value of CRP for diagnosing RA-PJI was 12.5 mg/l, ESR was 39 mm/hour, synovial fluid WBC was 3,654/μl, and PMN% was 65.9%; and those of OA-PJI were 8.2 mg/l, 31 mm/hour, 2,673/μl, and 62.0%, respectively. In the RA-PJI group, the specificity (94.4%), positive predictive value (97.1%), and AUC (0.916) of synovial fluid WBC were higher than those of the other indexes. The optimal cutoff values of synovial fluid WBC and PMN% for diagnosing RA-PJI after THA were significantly higher than those of TKA. The specificity and positive predictive value of the combined index were 100%., Conclusion: Serum inflammatory and synovial fluid indexes can be used for diagnosing RA-PJI, for which synovial fluid WBC is the best detection index. Combining multiple detection indexes can provide a reference basis for the early and accurate diagnosis of RA-PJI., Competing Interests: No conflict of interest exists in the submission of this manuscript., (© 2023 Author(s) et al.)

The employment of Li metal anodes is a key to realizing ultra-high energy batteries. However, the commercialization of lithium metal batteries (LMBs) remains challenging partially due to the thermodynamic instability and competitive oxidative decomposition of the solvent. Herein, a bi-functional electrolyte for stabilizing the interfaces of both the Li metal anode and LiCoO 2 (LCO) cathode is designed by introducing lithium nitrate (LiNO 3 ) through Ethylene Glycol Bis(Propionitrile) Ether (DENE). For the anode, the C 8 H 12 N 2 O 2 -LiNO 3 coordination-solvation contributes to forming a stable Li 3 N-enhanced solid electrolyte interphase (SEI), which increases the average Li coulombic efficiency (CE) up to 98.5%. More importantly, in situ electrochemical dilatometry further reveals that the highly reversible behavior and a low volume expansion of lithium deposition are related to the stable Li 3 N-enhanced SEI. The designed electrolyte enables the Li‖LCO cell to achieve an average CE of 99.2% and a high capacity retention of 88.2% up to 4.6 V after 100 cycles. This work provides a strategic guidance in developing high-voltage Li‖LCO batteries with dual electrolyte additives., Competing Interests: There are no conflicts to declare., (This journal is © The Royal Society of Chemistry.)

Background: To investigate the safety and effectiveness of cryo-balloon pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) and left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) combined procedure and half-dose rivaroxaban after operation in elderly patients with atrial fibrillation (AF)., Patients and Methods: A total of 203 AF patients presented for cryo-balloon PVI, and LAAC combined procedure was included from 2019 to 2021. Postoperative patients were anticoagulated with rivaroxaban with/without clopidogrel for 60 days, with oral rivaroxaban of 10 mg in the elderly group and 20 mg in the non-elderly group. Patients with AF ≥80 and <80 years were considered elderly and non-elderly groups, respectively. Scheduled follow-ups and transesophageal echocardiography were used to assess peri- and post-procedural safety and effectiveness., Results: A total of 203 patients underwent the combined procedure, 83 in the elderly and 120 in the non-elderly groups. All patients successfully obtained PVI and satisfactory LAAC. During the perioperative period, one patient had puncture complications in the elderly group and one with thrombosis in the non-elderly group. Oral rivaroxaban was administered to 83.2% and 75% of patients in the elderly and non-elderly groups, respectively, and rivaroxaban was combined with clopidogrel anticoagulation in the remaining patients. The annual rates of composite clinical events were 8.4% and 9.2% in the elderly and non-elderly groups, respectively, with no statistically significant difference. Patients in both groups had complete sealing, and there was no displacement of devices, death and peripheral arterial thrombosis. Recurrence of AF occurred in 25 and 32 patients in the elderly and non-elderly groups, respectively, with no statistically significant difference. Besides, the two groups had no statistically significant difference in cerebral infarction/transient ischemic attack and device-related thrombosis (p > 0.05)., Conclusion: This study suggests that cryo-balloon PVI and LAAC combined procedure and half-dose rivaroxaban after the operation is safe and effective in treating elderly patients with AF., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflicts of interest for this work., (© 2023 Zhang et al.)

Introduction: Lumbar degenerative disease (LDD) is one of the most common reasons for patients to present with low back pain. Proper evaluation and treatment of patients with LDD are important, which clinicians perform using a variety of predictors for guidance in choosing the most appropriate treatment. Because evidence on which treatment is best for LDD is limited, the purpose of this study is to establish a clinical prediction model based on machine learning (ML) to accurately predict outcomes of patients with LDDs in the early stages by their clinical characteristics and imaging changes., Methods and Analysis: In this study, we develop and validate a clinical prognostic model to determine whether patients will experience complications within 6 months after percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD). Baseline data will be collected from patients' electronic medical records. As of now, we have recruited a total of 580 participants (n=400 for development, n=180 for validation). The study's primary outcome will be the incidence of complications within 6 months after PELD. We will use an ML algorithm and a multiple logistic regression analysis model to screen factors affecting surgical efficacy. We will evaluate the calibration and differentiation performance of the model by the area under the curve. Sensitivity (Sen), specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value will be reported in the validation data set, with a target of 80% Sen. The results of this study could better illustrate the performance of the clinical prediction model, ultimately helping both clinicians and patients., Ethics and Dissemination: Ethical approval was obtained from the medical ethics committee of the Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Lanzhou, China; No. 2022-57). Findings and related data will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals, at conferences, and through open scientific frameworks., Trial Registration Number: Chinese Clinical Trial Register (www.chictr.org.cn) No. ChiCTR2200064421., Competing Interests: Competing interests: None declared., (© Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2023. Re-use permitted under CC BY-NC. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.)

Sb-related III-V compounds have recently gained great research interest owing to their excellent optical and electrical characteristics, which provide many possibilities in photonics and electronics. This study investigated the application of InSb films in ultrafast photonics. An InSb film was fabricated on the tapered zone of a microfiber, and its saturation intensity, modulation depth, and non-saturable loss were determined as 119.8 MW cm -2 , 23.5%, and 27.3%, respectively. The structure of the electronic band and density of states of InSb were theoretically calculated. Notably, mode-locked and Q-switched fiber lasers were realised by incorporating the InSb-microfiber device into two different Er-doped fiber cavities. In the Q-switching state, the narrowest pulse duration was measured as 1.756 μs with a maximum single-pulse energy of 221.95 nJ and a signal-to-noise ratio of 60 dB. In the mode-locking operation, ultrafast lasers with a high signal-to-noise ratio (70 dB), a pulse width as narrow as 265 fs and a repetition rate of 49.51 MHz were acquired. Besides, the second-harmonic mode-locked state was built with an output power of 13.22 mW. In comparison with the reported laser performance with 2D materials as saturable absorbers, the InSb-based mode-locked and Q-switched fiber lasers proposed herein exhibit better comprehensive performance.

As a new class of crystalline materials, covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have long-range ordered channels and feasibility to functionalize. The well-arranged pores make it possible to contain and transport ions. Here, we designed a novel functionalized anionic COF-SS-Li by a post-synthetic method utilizing the Povarov reaction of BDTA-COF, anchoring -SO 3 - groups to the COF backbone and converting the imine linkage to a more stable quinoline unit. The grafted -SO 3 - groups and directional channels can promote the lithium-ion transport through a hopping mechanism. As a solid-state lithium-ion electrolyte, COF-SS-Li exhibits the conductivities of 9.63 × 10 -5 S cm -1 at 20 °C and 1.28 × 10 -4 S cm -1 at 40 °C and a wide electrochemical window of 4.85 V. The assembled Li|COF-SS-Li|Li symmetric cell can cycle stably for 600 h at 0.1 mA cm -2 . Also, the Li|COF-SS-Li|LiFePO 4 cell delivers an initial capacity of 117 mAh g -1 at 0.1 A g -1 and retains a capacity rate of 56.7% after 500 cycles. The research enriches the solid-state electrolytes for lithium-ion batteries.

Solid-state batteries (SSBs) are considered as the most promising option to replace commercial lithium-ion batteries due to their ability to address the flammability of liquid organic electrolytes and facilitate the energy density of lithium batteries. Herein, by introducing tris(trimethylsilyl) borate (TMSB) as anion acceptors, we successfully develop the light and thin electrolyte (TMSB-PVDF-HFP-LLZTO-LiTFSI, PLFB) with a wide voltage window to couple the lithium metal anode with the high-voltage cathodes. Consequently, as-prepared PLFB can greatly boost the generation of free Li + and improve the Li + transference numbers (t Li+ =0.92) at room temperature. Moreover, combined with theoretical calculation and experimental results, the changes in the composition and properties of the composite electrolyte membrane with the addition of anionic receptors are systematically studied, which further implies the intrinsic mechanism of the stability difference. In addition, the PLFB-based SSB assembled by LiNi 0.8 Co 0.1 Mn 0.1 O 2 cathode and lithium anode exhibits a high capacity retention of 86% after loop 400 cycles. This investigation on boosted battery performance by immobilized anions not only contributes to the directional construction of dendrite-free and lithium-ion permeable interface, but also brings new opportunities for the screening and design of the next generation of high-energy SSBs., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

In the central nervous system (CNS), the apelin/APJ system is broadly expressed. According to some studies, activation of this system protects against excitotoxicity mediated by N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors and exerts neuroprotective effects. However, the role of this system in epilepsy remains unclear. In the present study, immunofluorescence staining and western blotting were used to assess APJ localization and expression in the brains of mice with recurrent spontaneous seizures induced by kainic acid (KA). Behavior and local field potentials (LFPs) were assessed in mice with KA-induced seizures. Susceptibility to seizures was assessed in a pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizure model. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings were used to evaluate the role of the apelin/APJ system in regulating synaptic transmission in brain slices from mice in which Mg 2+ -free medium was used to induce seizures. NMDA receptor GluN2B subunit expression and phosphorylation of GluN2B at Ser1480 were measured in the mouse hippocampus. APJ was primarily localized in neurons, and its expression was upregulated in the epileptic brain. APJ activation after KA-induced status epilepticus (SE) reduced epileptic activity, whereas APJ inhibition aggravated epileptic activity. In the PTZ model, APJ activation reduced and APJ inhibition increased susceptibility to seizures. The apelin/APJ system affected NMDA receptor-mediated postsynaptic currents in patch-clamp recordings. Moreover, APJ regulated the levels of GluN2B phosphorylated at Ser1480 and the abundance of cell-surface GluN2B in neurons. Furthermore, endocytosis of the NMDA receptor GluN2B subunit was regulated by the apelin/APJ system. Together, our findings indicate that the apelin/APJ system modulates seizure activity and may be a novel therapeutic target for epilepsy., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)