Search

Abstract Background Schistosoma japonicum infection causes hepatic fibrosis, a primary cause of morbidity and mortality associated with the disease, and effective treatments are still lacking. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been implicated in the pathogenic process of various tissue fibroses. However, the role of lncRNAs in schistosomiasis hepatic fibrosis (HF) is poorly understood. Understanding the role of lncRNAs in schistosomiasis HF will enhance knowledge of disease processes and aid in the discovery of therapeutic targets and diagnostic biomarkers. Methods Differentially expressed lncRNA profiles in primary hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) of mice infected with S. japonicum were identified using high-throughput lncRNA sequencing. Primary HSCs were isolated from infected mice using collagenase digestion and density-gradient centrifugation, cultured in DMEM with 10% fetal bovine serum. Dual-luciferase reporter assays, nuclear cytoplasm fractionation and RIP assays were employed to assess the relationship between Malat1 and miRNA-96. Malat1 lentivirus and ASO-Malat1 were constructed for forced expression and downregulated expression of Malat1. The Malat1-KO mouse was constructed by CRISPR/Cas9 technology. Pathological features of the liver were evaluated by hematoxylin-eosin (HE), Masson’s trichrome staining and immunohistochemistry (IHC). The expression levels of fibrosis-related genes were determined by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western blot. Results A total of 1561 differentially expressed lncRNAs were identified between infected and uninfected primary HSCs. Among the top altered lncRNAs, the downregulated Malat1 was observed in infected HSCs and verified by qPCR. Treatment of infected mice with praziquantel (PZQ) significantly increased the Malat1 expression. Elevated Malat1 expression in infected primary HSC reduced the expressions of profibrogenic genes, whereas Malat1 knockdown had the opposite effect. Moreover, Malat1 was found to interact with miR-96, a profibrotic miRNA, by targeting Smad7. Forced Malat1 expression reduced miR-96 levels in infected primary HSCs, attenuating fibrogenesis and showing negative correlation between Malat1 expression and the expression levels of miR-96 and profibrogenic genes α-SMA and Col1α1. Notably, in Malat1-KO mice, knockout of Malat1 aggravates schistosomiasis HF, while restored Malat1 expression in the infected HSCs reduced the expression of profibrogenic genes. Conclusions We demonstrate that lncRNA is involved in regulation of schistosomiasis HF. Elevated lncRNA Malat1 expression in infected HSCs reduces fibrosis via the Malat1/miR-96/Smad7 pathway, thus providing a novel therapeutic target for schistosomiasis HF. Furthermore, Malat1 expression is sensitive to PZQ treatment, thus offering a potential biomarker for assessing the response to chemotherapy. Graphical abstract

Improving plant resistance to Verticillium wilt (VW), which causes massive losses in Gossypium hirsutum, is a global challenge. Crop plants need to efficiently allocate their limited energy resources to maintain a balance between growth and defense. However, few transcriptional regulators specifically respond to Verticillium dahliae and the underlying mechanism has not been identified in cotton. In this study, we found that the that expression of most R2R3-MYB members in cotton is significantly changed by V. dahliae infection relative to the other MYB types. One novel R2R3-MYB transcription factor (TF) that specifically responds to V. dahliae, GhMYB3D5, was identified. GhMYB3D5 was not expressed in 15 cotton tissues under normal conditions, but it was dramatically induced by V. dahliae stress. We functionally characterized its positive role and underlying mechanism in VW resistance. Upon V. dahliae infection, the up-regulated GhMYB3D5 bound to the GhADH1 promoter and activated GhADH1 expression. In addition, GhMYB3D5 physically interacted with GhADH1 and further enhanced the transcriptional activation of GhADH1. Consequently, the transcriptional regulatory module GhMYB3D5-GhADH1 then promoted lignin accumulation by improving the transcriptional levels of genes related to lignin biosynthesis (GhPAL, GhC4H, Gh4CL, and GhPOD/GhLAC) in cotton, thereby enhancing cotton VW resistance. Our results demonstrated that the GhMYB3D5 promotes defense-induced lignin accumulation, which can be regarded as an effective way to orchestrate plant immunity and growth.

Abstract Background Periodontitis, a persistent inflammatory condition, significantly impairs individuals’ overall quality of life. Lymphocyte-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (LHR), monocyte-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (MHR), neutrophil-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (NHR), and platelet-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (PHR) are new convenient and economical biomarkers. However, whether the above high-density lipoprotein-related inflammatory biomarkers are associated with periodontitis has rarely been investigated. Therefore, the research endeavor focused on uncovering potential relationships. Methods The research encompassed a diverse and extensive sample, comprising 9,470 participants, selected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey spanning the years 2009 to 2014. The association between high-density lipoprotein-related inflammatory biomarkers and periodontitis was explored utilizing a multivariable logistic regression model with weighted analysis. Additionally, the study employed smoothed curve fitting to explore potential nonlinear relationships. Further stratified analyses and interaction tests were performed. Results This study indicated no apparent association between MHR and PHR with periodontitis, whereas LHR and NHR demonstrated a statistically significant positive relationship with the prevalence of periodontitis. In the fully adjusted model, participants belonging to the highest tertile of both LHR and NHR showed a notably higher likelihood of having periodontitis compared to those in the lowest tertile (LHR: OR = 1.22, 95% CI: 1.06, 1.39; NHR: OR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.09, 1.49). Furthermore, smooth curve fitting was employed to investigate the potential nonlinear relationship between LHR, NHR, and periodontitis. The results indicated that there was a significant increase in the occurrence of periodontitis when Log2 (LHR) exceeded 1.01 and Log2(NHR) surpassed 2.16 (Log2(LHR): OR = 1.42; 95% CI: 1.19, 1.69; Log2(NHR): OR = 1.40; 95% CI: 1.15, 1.71). The subgroup analysis revealed that the associations between periodontitis and either LHR or NHR, separately, were more pronounced among individuals under the age of 50 and those without hypertension. Conclusions This cross-sectional study revealed a positive relationship between LHR、NHR and periodontitis, particularly when these indicators exceeded their thresholds. LHR and NHR may serve as potential inflammatory markers for identifying periodontitis, thereby facilitating early warning for both patients and dentists, and enabling early intervention in the oral environment. Besides, extensive prospective cohort investigations are essential to confirm and solidify this observation.

Abstract Magnaporthe oryzae is a devastating fungal pathogen that causes the rice blast disease worldwide. The post-translational modification of ADP-ribosylation holds significant importance in various fundamental biological processes. However, the specific function of this modification in M. oryzae remains unknown. This study revealed that Poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation (PARylation) executes a critical function in M. oryzae. M. oryzae Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) exhibits robust PARylation activity. Disruption of PARylation by PARP1 knock-out or chemical inhibition reveals its involvement in M. oryzae virulence, particularly in appressorium formation. Furthermore, we identified two M. oryzae 14-3-3 proteins, GRF1 and GRF2, as substrates of PARP1. Deletion of GRF1 or GRF2 results in delayed and dysfunctional appressorium, diminished plant penetration, and reduced virulence of the fungus. Biochemical and genetic evidence suggest that PARylation of 14-3-3s is essential for its function in M. oryzae virulence. Moreover, PARylation regulates 14-3-3 dimerization and is required for the activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), Pmk1 and Mps1. GRF1 interacts with both Mst7 and Pmk1, and bridges their interaction in a PARylation-dependent manner. This study unveils a distinctive mechanism that PARylation of 14-3-3 proteins controls appressorium formation through MAPK activation, and could facilitate the development of new strategies of rice blast disease control.

Abstract Objective The purpose of this study is to construct an organ system-centered undergraduate nursing professional training model and explore its application effect. Methods This study is divided into two steps. In the early stage, literature review and expert consultation were used to establish the training mode (curriculum and assessment standard) of nursing undergraduate specialty based on organ system reform. Secondly, a cross-sectional survey method was used to investigate the training quality of nursing students who graduated from Jinzhou Medical University from 2007 to 2017 under this model. Results A five-module curriculum system was established, including general courses, public basic courses, professional education courses, expanding elective courses and concentrated practical teaching. Under the teaching reform of organ system, the nursing graduates of Jinzhou Medical University, who are mainly employed in public hospitals, are generally not satisfied with their jobs, salaries, contents and prospects. Their overall satisfaction with their alma mater is very high; Graduates have certain independent core competence; Employers are basically satisfied with graduates. Conclusion The training mode of undergraduate nursing specialty based on organ system reform basically meets the training requirements and objectives.

Abstract Background Researchers have paid little attention to the safety of drug use among community residents (CRs). Irrational use of drugs can lead to health risks. We investigated the situation of knowledge–attitude–practices (KAP) of CRs in Shenzhen (China) for safe use of drugs, and analyzed the main factors influencing drug use. Methods A multi-stage, random sampling method was used. We used a validated questionnaire to conduct an online questionnaire survey on the demographic characteristics and KAP of safe use of drugs of CRs in 10 administrative districts of Shenzhen City. The KAP score of safe use of drugs of CRs was analyzed. Influencing factors were identified using a single-factor chi-squared test and binary logistic regression analysis. Results A total of 7269 valid questionnaires were collected. The average scores of knowledge, attitude, and behavior were (9.08 ± 1.49) (possible range: 0–10), (37.82 ± 3.96) (possible range: 8–40), and (35.82 ± 4.56) (possible range: 8–40), respectively, indicating that they had a better grasp of safe use of drugs. Logistic regression analysis showed that sex, age, education level, occupation, monthly household income per capita, marital status, health status, and different sources of information were the main factors affecting the knowledge and behavior of safe use of drugs of CRs. In addition to the marital status variable, other variables also have a significant impact on attitude towards safe use of drugs of CRs. Conclusions Male sex, lower education level, lower income level, average/poor self-rated health status, and single source of drug-use information were the main factors affecting safe use of drugs based on KAP theory. The government and medical workers should carry out various forms of drug-education activities for people with different needs, encourage CRs to learn safe use of drugs, and promote safe use of drugs by CRs through diverse information sources.

Abstract Background To investigate the cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between depressive symptoms and the prevalence of frailty and its components in a nationally representative sample of middle-aged and older Chinese adults. Method The China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) provided data on 2581 (after inclusion and exclusion criteria) adults aged ≥ 45 years. Every two years, face-to-face, computer-aided personal interviews (CAPI), and structured questionnaires were used to follow up with the respondents. The Chinese version of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression Scale (CES-D) was used to evaluate depressive symptoms, and the Fried criteria were used to measure frailty. The odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for the association of exposure (depressive symptoms at baseline) with the onset of the outcome (frailty and its components) in the individuals at baseline were analyzed by binary logistic regression. Results At baseline, 11.62% of participants had frailty, and 57.92% had depressive symptoms. In the cross-sectional analysis, depressive symptoms (OR = 5.222, 95%CI 3.665–7.442) were associated with frailty. In the longitudinal analysis, after adjusting for the full set of covariates among participants free of baseline frailty, depressive symptoms were significantly associated with incident frailty during the short term (OR = 2.193, 95%CI 1.324–3.631) and the long term (OR = 1.926, 95%CI 1.021–3.632). Meanwhile, depressive symptoms were associated with an increased risk of weakness (OR = 1.990, 95%CI 1.250–3.166), slowness (OR = 1.395, 95%CI 1.044–1.865), and exhaustion (OR = 2.827, 95%CI 2.150–3.719) onset during the short-term. Depressive symptoms were associated with an increased risk of exhaustion (OR = 2.869, 95%CI 2.004–4.109) onset during the long-term. Conclusion Among middle-aged and older adults, depressive symptoms could predict frailty during 2 years of follow-up and 4 years of follow-up. When considering potential confounding factors, depressive symptoms were considered a predictor of weakness, slowness, and exhaustion. Interventions aimed at preventing depressive symptoms may be beneficial in reducing frailty and its components.

Abstract Background Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) is one of the most common types of skin cancer worldwide. Therefore, the identification of biomarkers associated with CSCC progression could aid in the early detection of high-risk squamous cell carcinoma and the development of novel therapeutic strategies. Objective This study aimed to investigate the expression patterns of silent mating type Information Regulation 2 homolog 6 (SIRT6) in CSCC and its clinical significance. Methods The protein expression level of SIRT6 in tissues was detected by immunohistochemistry, and the correlation between SIRT6 expression and clinicopathological parameters in CSCC patients was analyzed. The relative expression of SIRT6 in CSCC cell lineage and tissue specimens was determined by western blotting and PCR. The effect of SIRT6 silencing on cell proliferation was evaluated using cell counting kit 8. Wound healing, transwell method, and flow cytometry were used to investigate the migration, invasion, and cell cycle distribution/apoptosis of CSCC cells after SIRT6 silencing, respectively. Western blot was used to detect the expression of EMT (Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition), cycle, apoptosis, and other related proteins. Results The high expression of SIRT6 was correlated with the location of cancer tissue and Broder staging in CSCC patients. Knockdown of SIRT6 inhibited the proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT of CSCC cells, and promoted their apoptosis, with cells blocked in G1 phase. Study limitations No animal experiments were conducted to further verify the results. Conclusion Decreased expression of SIRT6 can inhibit the occurrence and development of CSCC.

Abstract Background Job burnout is a prevalent and emerging challenge in the primary medical system, causing mass turnover, especially of primary medical staff. Little attention has been paid to the different dimensions of job burnout (emotional exhaustion, personality disintegration, and reduced sense of achievement), which may hinder efforts to tackle high turnover intention among primary medical staff. From the perspective of conservation of resources theory, social support and psychological capital are basic resources with potential to diminish job burnout and thus lower turnover intention. However, there is insufficient research evidence on the relationships between social support, psychological capital, and the three dimensions of job burnout within the primary medical system. Objectives Focusing on primary medical staff, this study conducts a path analysis to examine the correlations between two types of resources (social support and psychological capital) and the three dimensions of job burnout, and to test the impact of the latter on turnover intention. Based on the results, effective management strategies to improve the work stability of primary medical staff are proposed. Methods Multi-stage cluster random sampling was used to select participants in Anhui Province, China. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire containing measures of the main variables and demographic questions. In total, 1132 valid questionnaires were returned by primary medical staff. Structural equation modeling was used for path analysis of the data. Results Social support was negatively associated with emotional exhaustion (β = − 0.088, P = 0.020), personality disintegration (β = − 0.235, P

Poly (p-phenylene terephthalamide) (PPTA), is well known as a material with excellent properties, but its application is greatly limited due to the harsh methods required for its preparation. This study proposes an innovative carbodiimide-assisted polymerization (CAP) method to simplify the synthesis process of PPTA. The ηinh of the prepared PPTA is 4.97 dl/g. Achieving amidation condensation at normal temperature and pressure, this method is suitable for synthesizing PPTA and allows for the recycling of the condensation reagent, offering a novel approach to green synthesis. Compared to the commercial fiber Kevlar 29, PPTA exhibits similar thermal stability, with negligible decomposition before 500°C. Using the deprotonation method to prepare aramid nanofiber (ANF) resulted in various shapes of bulk materials. The ANF bulk exhibits excellent mechanical properties, with tensile and compressive strengths of 36.9 MPa and 60.68 MPa, respectively, on par with standard engineering materials. Additionally, ANF and PPTA share similar thermal stability. Furthermore, the study prepared aramid nanofiber/partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (ANF/HPAM) composite paper, which demonstrated outstanding mechanical performance and thermal stability. The ANF/HPAM composite paper (2% concentration of HPAM) exhibited a tensile strength of 63.32 MPa. These findings offer new insights into developing high-performance fiber materials.

IntroductionFerroptosis is a crucial process contributing to neuronal damage following intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Didang Tang (DDT), a traditional therapeutic, has been used clinically to manage ICH for many years, yet the molecular mechanisms by which by DDT protects neurons from ferroptosis after ICH remain elusive.MethodsThis study utilized high-performance liquid chromatography-based fingerprint analysis to characterize DDT’s chemical composition. An ICH rat model and hemin and erastin-induced PC12 cell ferroptosis models were developed to investigate DDT’s neuroprotective mechanisms. Histological assessments of brain tissue morphology and iron deposition were performed using hematoxylin-eosin, Nissl, and Perl’s blue staining. Neurological function was evaluated using Longa and Berderson scores, while lipid peroxidation was measured using biochemical assays and flow cytometry. Protein expression levels of ferroptosis- and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS)-related markers were analyzed via Western blotting and immunofluorescence.ResultsOur results demonstrated that DDT reduced hematoma volume, decreased iron deposition, lowered malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and upregulated glutathione peroxidase (GPX4) and SLC7A11 expression in affected brain regions. Furthermore, DDT downregulated GRP78 expression and inhibited the PERK/eIF2α/ATF4/CHOP/GPX4 pathway, exerting strong neuroprotective effects. The fluorescence staining results of MAP2/GPX4 and MAP2/CHOP suggested that DDT may regulate neuronal ferroptosis and ERs to exert the protective effect. In vitro experiments using hemin- and erastin-induced neuron-derived PC12 cells as neuronal ferroptosis models developed in our laboratory corroborated these in vivo findings, showing increased survival and reduced lipid peroxidation in DDT-treated cells, along with similar inhibitory effects on ferroptosis and ERS. Molecular docking suggested that DDT components, such as sennoside B, amygdalin, rhein, and emodin, interact favorably with PERK/eIF2α/ATF4/CHOP signaling pathway proteins, highlighting their potential role in DDT’s anti-ferroptosis effects.ConclusionDDT alleviates neuronal ferroptosis after ICH by modulating the PERK/eIF2α/ATF4/CHOP/GPX4 signaling pathway. Overall, this study provides novel insights into DDT’s protective mechanisms against ICH-induced neuronal injury by modulating ferroptosis and ERS pathways, underscoring its potential as an effective therapeutic strategy.

Stroke has emerged as the primary cause of disability and death globally in recent years. Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), a particularly severe kind of stroke, is occurring in an increasing number of people. The two main clinical treatments for ICH now in use are conservative pharmaceutical therapy and surgical intervention, both of which have risks and drawbacks. Consequently, it is crucial to look into the pathophysiology of ICH and consider cutting-edge therapeutic approaches. Recent research has revealed that pyroptosis is a newly identified type of cell death distinguished by the break of the cell membrane and the discharge of pro-inflammatory substances through different routes. Following ICH, glial cells experience pyroptosis, which worsens neuroinflammation. Hence, the onset and progression of ICH are strongly linked to pyroptosis, which is facilitated by different inflammasomes. It is essential to conduct a comprehensive investigation of ICH damage processes and uncover new targets for treatment. The impact and function of pyroptosis in ICH, as well as the activation and regulation of inflammasomes and their mediated pyroptosis pathways will be fully discussed in this review.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder distinguished by gradual depletion of motor neurons. RNA binding motif protein 5 (RBM5), an abundantly expressed RNA-binding protein, plays a critical role in the process of cellular death. However, little is known about the role of RBM5 in the pathogenesis of ALS. Here, we found that RBM5 was upregulated in ALS hSOD1G93A-NSC34 cell models and hSOD1G93A mice due to a reduction of miR-141–5p. The upregulation of RBM5 increased the apoptosis of motor neurons by inhibiting Rac1-mediated neuroprotection. In contrast, genetic knockdown of RBM5 rescued motor neurons from hSOD1G93A-induced degeneration by activating Rac1 signaling. The neuroprotective effect of RBM5-knockdown was significantly inhibited by the Rac1 inhibitor, NSC23766. These findings suggest that RBM5 could potentially serve as a therapeutic target in ALS by activating the Rac1 signalling.

BackgroundAlzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive decline in cognitive function, which significantly increases pain and social burden. However, few therapeutic interventions are effective in preventing or mitigating the progression of AD. An increasing number of recent studies support the hypothesis that the gut microbiome and its metabolites may be associated with upstream regulators of AD pathology.MethodsIn this review, we comprehensively explore the potential mechanisms and currently available interventions targeting the microbiome for the improvement of AD. Our discussion is structured around modern research advancements in AD, the bidirectional communication between the gut and brain, the multi-target regulatory effects of microbial metabolites on AD, and therapeutic strategies aimed at modulating gut microbiota to manage AD.ResultsThe gut microbiota plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of AD through continuous bidirectional communication via the microbiota-gut-brain axis. Among these, microbial metabolites such as lipids, amino acids, bile acids and neurotransmitters, especially sphingolipids and phospholipids, may serve as central components of the gut-brain axis, regulating AD-related pathogenic mechanisms including β-amyloid metabolism, Tau protein phosphorylation, and neuroinflammation. Additionally, interventions such as probiotic administration, fecal microbiota transplantation, and antibiotic use have also provided evidence supporting the association between gut microbiota and AD. At the same time, we propose an innovative strategy for treating AD: a healthy lifestyle combined with targeted probiotics and other potential therapeutic interventions, aiming to restore intestinal ecology and microbiota balance.ConclusionDespite previous efforts, the molecular mechanisms by which gut microbes act on AD have yet to be fully described. However, intestinal microorganisms may become an essential target for connecting the gut-brain axis and improving the symptoms of AD. At the same time, it requires joint exploration by multiple centers and multiple disciplines.

IntroductionDiabetic macular edema (DME) is a major cause of vision loss in the sick with diabetic retinopathy. The occurrence of DME is closely related to the breakdown of neurovascular coupling; however, its underlying mechanism has not been fully elucidated. The aim of this study was to investigate the diagnostic biomarkers and potential molecular mechanisms associated with neurovascular coupling in DME.MethodsThe differential expression analysis, STEM, and WGCNA were performed from GSE160306 to identify hub genes. The gene expression was validated by RT-qPCR. The relevant mechanisms of action were investigated through GO, KEGG, and GSEA analyses, as well as co-expression networks. Additionally, the LASSO regression analysis and a nomogram were used to demonstrate the diagnostic effectiveness of the model. Finally, the GenDoma platform was utilized to identify drugs with potential therapeutic effects on DME.ResultsNeurotrophic factor receptor (NGFR) was identified as a hub gene related to neurovascular coupling and DME. The expression of NGFR was verified by RT-qPCR in vitro cells. GSEA analysis indicated that high expression of NGFR may affect immunity and inflammatory pathway, thereby regulating neurovascular coupling and mediating the development of DME. The NGFR co-expression network was constructed, which exhibited the correlation with the neurotrophin signaling pathway. Moreover, a diagnostic model for DME based on NGFR and PREX1 demonstrated relatively good diagnostic performance using LASSO regression analysis and the nomogram. And then the GenDoma platform identified drugs with potential therapeutic effects on DME.ConclusionThe high expression of NGFR may lead to abnormal neurovascular coupling and participate in the occurrence of DME by regulating the immunity, inflammatory and neurotrophin signaling pathway. Detection of NGFR and related expression genes may be beneficial for monitoring the occurrence and development of DME.

Abstract Background Nursing students are encountering a range of health issues. Assessing social support is a key component in most questionnaire surveys related to health status, aiming to investigate the relationships and mechanisms between health status and social support to enhance overall health. Therefore, it is essential to seek out appropriate instruments to evaluate social support for nursing students. The Oslo-3 Social Support Scale (OSSS-3) is a reliable and concise instrument for evaluating social support. To date, there have been no studies validating the OSSS-3 based on Item Response Theory (IRT) models. Also, an officially validated Chinese version has not been found. The current research intended to verify the Chinese version of the OSSS-3. Methods The OSSS-3 was translated into Chinese and culturally adapted. Subsequently, the OSSS-3 was validated by employing the Classical Test Theory (CTT) and IRT models. Results The split-half reliability was 0.622. The Cronbach’s α coefficient was 0.687. The correlations between each item and total scores varied from 0.723 to 0.835. The retest coefficient was 0.907. The content validity index was 0.933. A single common factor was extracted and accounted for 61.559% of the variance. The item loading values on the single factor were between 0.743 and 0.814. The communalities were between 0.552 and 0.663. There was no variance between males and females (P = 0.055). The difference in scores between the top (30%) and bottom (30%) groups attained significance. IRT models results revealed that the discrimination parameters ranged from 1.39 to 2.33 and difficulty parameters increased monotonically. Conclusion The OSSS-3 demonstrates satisfying psychometric properties and is a proper instrument for measuring social support in Chinese nursing students.

Abstract To investigate the screening and predicting functions of obesity- and lipid-related indices for type 2 diabetes (T2D) in middle-aged and elderly Chinese, as well as the ideal predicted cut-off value. This study's data comes from the 2011 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). A cross-sectional study design was used to investigate the relationship of T2D and 13 obesity- and lipid-related indices, including body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist–height ratio (WHtR), visceral adiposity index (VAI), a body shape index (ABSI), body roundness index (BRI), lipid accumulation product (LAP), conicity index (CI), Chinese visceral adiposity index (CVAI), triglyceride- glucose index (TyG index) and its correlation index (TyG-BMI, TyG-WC, TyG-WHtR). The unadjusted and adjusted correlations between 13 indices and T2D were assessed using binary logistic regression analysis. The receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was used to determine the usefulness of anthropometric indices for screening for T2D and determining their cut‑off value, sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC). The study comprised 9488 people aged 45 years or above in total, of whom 4354 (45.89%) were males and 5134 (54.11%) were females. Among them were 716 male cases of T2D (16.44%) and 870 female cases of T2D (16.95%). A total of 13 obesity- and lipid-related indices were independently associated with T2D risk after adjusted for confounding factors (P

Abstract Background Depressive symptoms are one of the most common psychiatric disorders, with a high lifetime prevalence rate among middle-aged and elderly Chinese. Obesity may be one of the risk factors for depressive symptoms, but there is currently no consensus on this view. Therefore, we investigate the relationship and predictive ability of 13 obesity- and lipid-related indices with depressive symptoms among middle-aged and elderly Chinese. Methods The data were obtained from The China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). Our analysis includes individuals who did not have depressive symptoms at the baseline of the CHARLS Wave 2011 study and were successfully follow-up in 2013 and 2015. Finally, 3790 participants were included in the short-term (from 2011 to 2013), and 3660 participants were included in the long-term (from 2011 to 2015). The average age of participants in short-term and long-term was 58.47 years and 57.88 years. The anthropometric indicators used in this analysis included non-invasive [e.g. waist circumference (WC), body mass index (BMI), and a body mass index (ABSI)], and invasive anthropometric indicators [e.g. lipid accumulation product (LAP), triglyceride glucose index (TyG index), and its-related indices (e.g. TyG-BMI, and TyG-WC)]. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to examine the predictive ability of various indicators for depressive symptoms. The association of depressive symptoms with various indicators was calculated using binary logistic regression. Results The overall incidence of depressive symptoms was 20.79% in the short-term and 27.43% in the long-term. In males, WC [AUC = 0.452], LAP [AUC = 0.450], and TyG-WC [AUC = 0.451] were weak predictors of depressive symptoms during the short-term (P 0.05). Conclusion The research indicates that in the middle-aged and elderly Chinese, most obesity- and lipid-related indices have statistical significance in predicting depressive symptoms, but the accuracy of these indicators in prediction is relatively low and may not be practical predictors.

Abstract The purpose of the study was to determine whether changes in body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) in middle-aged and elderly Chinese are associated with metabolic syndrome. In this cohort investigation, 3697 middle-aged and elderly people aged 45 or over were recruited from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). The National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (2005) defined metabolic syndrome (MetS). With Cox regression analysis, we calculated hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for MetS based on BMI-WC change categories. To assess the prevalence of MetS, the changes in BMI and WC levels were classified into four quartiles based on their relative and absolute changes. In subjects whose BMI and WC decreased (HR = 0.338; 95% CIs 0.264, 0.433) as well as those whose BMI increased and their WC decreased (HR = 0.375; 95% CIs 0.228, 0.499), metabolic syndrome risk was significantly lower compared with those with increases in both BMI and WC. Regarding the absolute changes in BMI, the lowest percentile of BMI was significantly lower in both males (HR = 0.302; 95% CIs 0.204, 0.448) and females (HR = 0.486; 95% CIs 0.354, 0.667) for the risk of metabolic syndrome. Similar results were observed in the absolute changes in WC, with the lowest quantile of WC having a significant impact on MetS risk in males (HR = 0.170; 95% CIs 0.107, 0.270) and females (HR = 0.303; 95% CIs 0.217, 0.424). The risk of metabolic syndrome was significantly associated with changes in BMI and WC in middle-aged and elderly Chinese. A reduced BMI and WC are associated with lower metabolic syndrome risks in middle-aged and elderly people.

This research examined and compared the effect of microwave and deodorant treatments on the rheological and microscopic characteristics of crumb rubber modified asphalt (CRMA) after long-term aging. Although the emissions from the asphalt modified by microwave treatment of crumb rubber (CR-micr) or high-alkane alcohol deodorant treatment of crumb rubber (CR-de) are reduced significantly compared with the ordinary CRMA, the research on their rheological and microscopic properties after aging is insufficient (especially for the CRMA with CR-de), which may pose a potential risk to their application in road engineering. To address this issue, this paper first used the rolling thin film oven and pressure aging vessel test to imitate the long-term aging of CRMAs. Then, the rheological properties of aged CRMA samples were evaluated using a dynamic shear rheometer and a bending beam rheometer. Meanwhile, the surface micromorphology, micromechanical characteristics and the chemical functional groups of CRMA samples before and after long-term aging were characterized by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The results demonstrated that the microwave treatment can enhance the fatigue life of the long-term aged CRMA by approximately 29 % under 8 % CR content and 3 % strain level, while effectively improve the resistance to low-temperature cracking. Meanwhile, after long-term aging, the carbonyl index of CRMA with CR-micr is 36 % lower than that of CRMA with CR-de and 50 % lower than that of ordinary CRMA. The micromechanical modulus of CRMA with CR-micr is also lower than that of CRMA with CR-de and ordinary CRMA. These findings manifest that the microwave treatment can improve the ability of CRMA to resist long-term aging, and the deodorant treatment does not have an adverse effect on this ability.

Eutrophication resulting from anthropogenic activities has been recognized as a significant driver of changes in ecosystem functioning. Furthermore, it may exacerbate the top–down effect and thus exert an important impact on plant growth. To test this hypothesis, we conducted a 3-year manipulative field experiment to investigate the impacts of nitrogen addition and crab herbivory on the growth of Phragmites australis in the salt marsh of the Yellow River Delta. The results demonstrated that a 3-year nitrogen addition can significantly increase the total nitrogen and carbon content of P. australis leaves, thereby enhancing their nutritional value and palatability, as well as increasing the proportion of leaves consumed by crabs. Therefore, nitrogen addition together with crab herbivory had a significant negative effect on P. australis height, leaf length, and leaf breadth in the ambient crab and procedural crab cage treatment compared to the crab exclusion treatment. The structural equation modeling further substantiated these findings. The model revealed a direct and positive correlation between nitrogen addition and leaf nutrient content (path coefficient = 0.34). Additionally, it demonstrated a direct and positive relationship between leaf nutrient content and the proportion of leaves consumed by crabs (path coefficient = 0.22). Simultaneously, there was an observed negative correlation (path coefficient = − 0.37) between the proportion of leaves consumed by crabs and plant functional traits, represented by leaf length in the model, during 2018. Moreover, the crab exclusion treatment significantly reduced the proportion of leaves consumed by crabs and thus enhanced the P. australis individuals, leaf number, and biomass. Overall, crab herbivory had a significant detrimental top–down effect on the growth of P. australis, and nitrogen enrichment may exacerbate this top–down effect. The findings of our study highlight the combined adverse effects of nutrient enrichment and top–down on plant functional traits and plant growth. The findings of this study will contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the underlying factors influencing vegetation degradation in coastal wetland, thereby establishing a solid theoretical framework for the conservation and management of wetland ecosystems within the context of global environmental change.

AimsThis investigation explored the potential correlation between serum vitamin D concentration and diabetic kidney disease (DKD) among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).MethodsThis cross-sectional study assessed 4,570 patients with T2DM drawn from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) dataset. Restricted cubic splines were utilized to examine the dose–response relationship between serum vitamin D levels and the risk of DKD in patients with T2DM. Serum vitamin D concentrations were divided into quartiles for multivariable logistic regression analysis to evaluate the association between varying serum vitamin D levels and DKD risk in patients with T2DM. Additionally, sex-stratified analyses were conducted to determine consistency of the results. The influence of vitamin D concentrations on mortality risk was assessed using a Cox regression model.ResultsOf the patients with T2DM, 33% were diagnosed with DKD. Restricted cubic spline plots revealed a U-shaped relationship between vitamin D levels and DKD risk, with a protective effect noted in the mid-range, indicating optimal serum vitamin D concentrations between 59.6 nmol/L and 84.3 nmol/L. The multivariate Cox regression analysis suggested that higher VID levels were associated with a reduced mortality risk, particularly in male patients.ConclusionThe regulation and monitoring of serum vitamin D levels within an optimal range may play a pivotal role in the prevention of DKD in patients with T2DM. Public health strategies should emphasize the regular monitoring of vitamin D levels, especially among populations at elevated risk, to mitigate the progression of DKD and decrease the associated mortality rates.

Background Sputum nitrate/nitrite, which is the main component of reactive nitrogen species, is a potential biomarker of disease severity and progression in bronchiectasis. This study aimed to determine the association between nitrate/nitrite and exacerbations and airway microbiota in bronchiectasis. Methods We measured total nitrate/nitrite concentration in sputum samples collected from 85 patients with stable bronchiectasis, performed 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing of sputum samples and predicted the denitrification ability of airway microbiota using Phylogenetic Investigation of Communities by Reconstruction of Unobserved States (PICRUSt). Relationships between sputum total nitrate/nitrite and disease severity, exacerbations and airway microbiota were examined. Results Higher total sputum nitrate/nitrite was associated with more severe bronchiectasis defined by E-FACED (exacerbation, forced expiratory volume in 1 s, age, chronic colonisation by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, radiological extension and dyspnoea) (p=0.003) or Bronchiectasis Severity Index (p=0.006) and more exacerbations in the prior 12 months (p=0.005). Moreover, total sputum nitrate/nitrite was significantly higher in patients with worse cough score (p=0.03), worse sputum purulence score (p=0.01) and worse Medical Research Council dyspnoea score (p=0.02). In addition, the total sputum nitrate/nitrite of the P. aeruginosa colonised (PA) group was higher than that of the non-P. aeruginosa colonised (NPA) group (p=0.04), and the relative abundance of P. aeruginosa was positively correlated with total nitrate/nitrite (r=0.337, p=0.002). Denitrification module (M00529) was also significantly enriched in the PA group compared to the NPA group through PICRUSt analyses. Using receiver-operating characteristic analysis, total nitrate/nitrite was associated with exacerbations during 1-year follow-up (area under the curve 0.741, p=0.014). Conclusions Sputum nitrate/nitrite is a biomarker of disease severity and associated with P. aeruginosa colonisation in bronchiectasis.

BackgroundParvimonas micra (P. micra) has been identified as a pathogen capable of causing lung abscesses; however, its identification poses challenges due to the specialized culture conditions for anaerobic bacterial isolation. Only a few cases of lung abscesses caused by P. micra infection have been reported. Therefore, we describe the clinical characteristics of lung abscesses due to P. micra based on our case series.MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on eight patients who were diagnosed with lung abscesses attributed to P. micra. Detection of P. micra was accomplished through target next-generation sequencing (tNGS). A systematic search of the PubMed database using keywords “lung abscess” and “Parvimonas micra/Peptostreptococcus micros” was performed to review published literature pertaining to similar cases.ResultsAmong the eight patients reviewed, all exhibited poor oral hygiene, with four presenting with comorbid diabetes. Chest computed tomography (CT) showed high-density mass shadows with necrosis and small cavities in the middle. Bronchoscopic examination revealed purulent sputum and bronchial mucosal inflammation. Thick secretions obstructed the airway, leading to the poor drainage of pus, and the formation of local abscesses leading to irresponsive to antibiotic therapy, which finally protracted recovery time. P. micra was successfully identified in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples from all eight patients using tNGS; in contrast, sputum and BALF bacterial cultures yielded negative results, with P. micra cultured from only one empyema sample. Following appropriate antibiotic therapy, seven patients recovered. In previously documented cases, favorable outcomes were observed in 77.8% of individuals treated with antibiotics and 22.2% were cured after surgical interventions for P. micra lung abscesses.ConclusionsThis study enriches our understanding of the clinical characteristics associated with lung abscesses attributed to P. micra. Importantly, tNGS has emerged as a rapid and effective diagnostic test in scenarios where traditional sputum cultures are negative. Encouragingly, patients with lung abscesses caused by P. micra infection exhibit a favorable prognosis with effective airway clearance and judicious anti-infective management.

This study investigated the distribution of aging depth gradients in styrene-butadiene-styrene modified bitumen (SBSMB) during natural aging. SBSMB was sourced from bitumen recycling tests and was stratified into upper, middle, and lower layers according to depth. To examine the effects of various aging depths, SBSMB samples from different depths were prepared for subsequent bitumen recycling tests. Then, studying the rheological performance of the SBSMB involved conducting multiple stress creep recovery tests. Subsequently, investigating the bee structure and nanoscale indicators of SBSMB at various aging depths involved utilizing atomic force microscopy testing. Finally, the Verhulst model was applied to assess the aging of SBSMB at different depths. The results have shown that natural aging has gradually diffused from the surface to the interior of the bitumen. An increase in aging time leads to a more pronounced aging effect at the upper levels and an accelerated the downward diffusion rate. This ultimately results in a gradient behavior of the rheological properties of SBSMB at different depths. The quantity of bee structures and the distribution density of bee structures in SBSMB both progressively decrease with increased aging depth. As aging time increases, the aging properties of SBSMB exhibit significant gradient behavior at different depths. Simultaneously, the Verhulst model accurately explain the aging trend of bitumen at different nanoscale depths.

Abstract Background Nurses play an important role in healthcare development. The increasing demands for nurses mean that nursing schools at the undergraduate level have the responsibility to ensure patient safety and quality care through a well-designed curriculum. This research aimed to evaluate the effect of the teaching method combined with situational awareness and case-based seminars in a comprehensive nursing skills practice course on the level of self-directed learning, professional identity, academic self-efficacy, theoretical scores, practical scores, teaching satisfaction, and student competence among nursing students. Methods The research population comprised was of the grades of 2019 and 2020 at Wannan Medical College in Anhui Province, China (n = 169, response rate 77.88%). The observation group from grade 2020 used the teaching method combined with situational awareness and case-based seminars, whereas the control group from grade 2019 used the traditional teaching mode. General information, self-directed learning, a professional identity, and academic self-efficacy were compared between the two groups. This research used means and standard deviations, chi-square, the Shapiro–Wilk test, and an independent sample t-test for statistical analyses. Results Compared with the control group, the total scores for self-directed learning, professional identity, and academic self-efficacy were higher in the observation group (78.80 ± 7.89 vs 60.21 ± 7.44, 63.39 ± 7.87 vs 52.35 ± 7.68, and 22.31 ± 3.30 vs 21.28 ± 2.31, respectively, with P 0.05). Conclusion The teaching method combined with situational awareness and case-based seminars in a comprehensive nursing skills practice course has the potential to improve the level of self-directed learning, professional identity, and academic self-efficacy, and it increases theoretical scores, practical scores, teaching satisfaction, and student competence.

Lymphatic metastasis is the main metastatic route for colorectal cancer, which increases the risk of cancer recurrence and distant metastasis. The properties of the lymph node metastatic colorectal cancer (LNM-CRC) cells are poorly understood, and effective therapies are still lacking. Here, we found that hypoxia-induced fibroblast activation protein alpha (FAPα) expression in LNM-CRC cells. Gain- or loss-function experiments demonstrated that FAPα enhanced tumor cell migration, invasion, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, stemness, and lymphangiogenesis via activation of the STAT3 pathway. In addition, FAPα in tumor cells induced extracellular matrix remodeling and established an immunosuppressive environment via recruiting regulatory T cells, to promote colorectal cancer lymph node metastasis (CRCLNM). Z-GP-DAVLBH, a FAPα-activated prodrug, inhibited CRCLNM by targeting FAPα-positive LNM-CRC cells. Our study highlights the role of FAPα in tumor cells in CRCLNM and provides a potential therapeutic target and promising strategy for CRCLNM.

We aimed to investigate the effects of the position of the transferred air bubble with the clinical pregnancy rate (PR) in frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycles. A prospective clinical study was carried out at Reproductive Medicine Center of West China Second University Hospital between June 2020 and May 2021. A total of 1159 women who underwent FET were included in this study. Transabdominal ultrasonographic guidance was used during the transfer procedure. The distance from the air bubble to endometrial cavity fundus (DAF) was measured in the freeze-frame ultrasound immediately after ET. In DAF ≤3 mm, 3–15 mm, and ≥15 mm group, the clinical PR in women transferred with cleavage embryos was 33.3% (7/21), 55.0% (153/280), and 31.3% (5/16), respectively, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Among women transferred with blastocysts, the clinical PR was 63.0% (34/54), 68.5% (485/708), and 55.0% (44/80), respectively, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). In multivariate logistic regression model for clinical PR, the clinical PR was associated with age, embryo quality, number of embryo transferred, and endometrial thickness. DAF was an independent risk factor influencing clinical PR in blastocyst FET cycles rather than in cleavage embryo FET cycles. In conclusion, our results suggested that DAF was associated with the clinical PR and DAF between 3 mm and 15 mm is the optimal position in blastocyst FET cycles.

Abstract The notorious woody plant-degrading pathogen Lasiodiplodia theobromae is a major causal agent of peach gummosis, one of the prevalent and devastating trunk diseases to peach production; however, its pathogenesis is largely unknown. Our previous study showed that L. theobromae LtGPX3, which encodes a glutathione peroxidase resembling yeast GPX3/HYR1-like, was constantly and dramatically upregulated at the infectious stages. Here, we functionally characterized LtGPX3 using the CRISPR-Cas9-aided split marker approach. The ΔLtgpx3 deletion mutants displayed increased sensitivity to the osmotic stress agent KCl and less sensitivity to the cell wall-damaging agent calcofluor white. Exogenous oxidants highly induced the expression of LtGPX3, and the ΔLtgpx3 mutants displayed increased sensitivity to ROS-generating oxidants. Pathogenicity assays revealed that ΔLtgpx3 mutants showed compromised virulence in peach shoots, which was partially restored when peach shoots were pretreated with an NADPH oxidase inhibitor before inoculation. Moreover, ROS levels were strongly boosted, and transcripts of plant defense-related genes were highly induced in the ΔLtgpx3 mutants-infected peach shoots compared with the wild-type-inoculated. Overall, our results showed the essential roles of LtGPX3 in the oxidative stress response and tolerance and pathological functions in L. theobromae. These findings deepen our understanding of the survival strategies of the woody plant-degrading pathogen L. theobromae and provide new insights into developing new strategies for peach gummosis disease control.

In an era where global focus intensifies on sustainable development, in this study, I investigate the interplay between rapid urbanization, rural logistics evolution, and carbon dynamics in China. We aim to bridge the gap in existing literature by examining the tripartite relationship between these areas and their collective impact on sustainable development. I explore the dynamic interaction mechanisms between urban construction, rural logistics development, and carbon emissions, assessing their joint influence on sustainable development. A detailed analysis of demand dynamics and market mechanisms supporting urbanization, rural logistics development, and carbon emissions has been initiated, leading to the establishment of a theoretical framework. This framework adeptly captures the interdependencies and constraints among these variables, offering a mathematical and bioscientific perspective to understand their complex interactions. Furthermore, a sophisticated nonlinear model based on key quantitative indicators like urbanization level, rural logistics development, and carbon emissions has been incorporated. Considering the multivariate nature, uncertainty, and dynamism presented by the nonlinear model, genetic algorithms have been employed for the estimation of model parameters. Through rigorous empirical testing using data from China spanning the years 1991–2021, I not only validate the effectiveness of the model but also accurately the interactions between urbanization processes, rural logistics progression, and carbon emissions. The findings demonstrate that urban construction significantly drives rural logistics development and uncover a pronounced nonlinear relationship among urbanization, rural logistics development (with a significant pull effect of 4.2), and carbon emissions growth. This research highlights the subtle balance between rural-urban development and environmental management, providing theoretical backing for the creation of sustainable policy frameworks in rural contexts and setting a foundation for future research in this domain.

Abstract Objective Hypertension refers to the persistent elevation of blood pressure above the established normal range, resulting in increased pressure exerted by blood on the walls of blood vessels during its circulation. Recent studies have identified significant associations between obesity and lipid-related indices, as well as hypertension. Nevertheless, these studies have yet to comprehensively examine the correlation between the two variables. Our objective is to identify the fat and lipid-related indices that have the strongest correlation with hypertension. Method There was a total of 9488 elderly and middle-aged Chinese citizens who participated in this investigation. The participants in this research were separated into distinct gender cohorts. The participants were classified into normal and hypertensive categories according to their gender, with hypertension defined as a blood pressure level of 140/90 mmHg or higher, or a history of hypertension. Through the utilization of binary logistic regression analyses and the receiver operator curve (ROC), the optimal among fourteen indicators associated with obesity and lipids were identified. Results After adjusting for variables, statistical analysis showed that all 14 measures of obesity and lipid were risk factors for hypertension. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis reveals that the Chinese visceral adiposity index (CVAI) has the highest degree of relationship to hypertension. Simultaneously, a statistically significant association between hypertension and these 14 variables was observed in both males and females. Conclusion There was a significant independent association between various parameters related to obesity and lipid-related index and the presence of hypertension, indicating that these factors can be considered risk factors for hypertension. CVAI and WHtR (waist height ratio) can be used to screen the high-risk groups of hypertensions in middle-aged and elderly people in China, and then take individualized health care measures to reduce the harm of hypertension.

Bioactive compounds derived from herbal medicinal plants modulate various therapeutic targets and signaling pathways associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the world's primary cause of death. Ginkgo biloba, a well-known traditional Chinese medicine with notable cardiovascular actions, has been used as a cardio- and cerebrovascular therapeutic drug and nutraceutical in Asian countries for centuries. Preclinical studies have shown that ginkgolide B, a bioactive component in Ginkgo biloba, can ameliorate atherosclerosis in cultured vascular cells and disease models. Of clinical relevance, several clinical trials are ongoing or being completed to examine the efficacy and safety of ginkgolide B-related drug preparations in the prevention of cerebrovascular diseases, such as ischemia stroke. Here, we present a comprehensive review of the pharmacological activities, pharmacokinetic characteristics, and mechanisms of action of ginkgolide B in atherosclerosis prevention and therapy. We highlight new molecular targets of ginkgolide B, including nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidases (NADPH oxidase), lectin-like oxidized LDL receptor-1 (LOX-1), sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), platelet-activating factor (PAF), proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) and others. Finally, we provide an overview and discussion of the therapeutic potential of ginkgolide B and highlight the future perspective of developing ginkgolide B as an effective therapeutic agent for treating atherosclerosis.

Abstract Objective To translate the Academic Goals Orientation Questionnaire (AGOQ) into Chinese and to determine the validity and reliability of the (AGOQ) in Chinese nursing students based on SEM and IRT multidimensional models. Methods The participants were 654 nursing students with an age range of 17–26 years (mean age 21.61 ± 1.73 years). The psychometric properties of AGOQ were investigated based on a dual analytical perspective of structural equation modeling (SEM) and item response theory (IRT). Results The Cronbach’s α value of the questionnaire is 0.895. A four-factor model was obtained by exploratory factor analysis, which explained the variance of 71.892%. With confirmatory factor analysis, a new four-factors model was built and showed an acceptable goodness-of-fit, chi-square/degree of freedom (CMIN/DF) = 4.008, goodness of fit index (GFI) = 0.932, adjusted goodness of fit index (AGFI) = 0.905, comparative fit index (CFI) = 0.952, incremental fit index (IFI) = 0.952, Tucker Lewis index (TLI) = 0.941. In the analysis part of IRT, according to the comparison between Akek’s information criterion (AIC) and Bayesian information criterion (BIC), we choose the Graded Response Model (GRM) for analysis. The results show that the difficulty value is monotonically increasing, and the discrimination of all items is greater than 0.19, which shows that 16 items can be retained. Conclusions This study tested the psychometric characteristics of AGOQ of nursing students in China. The results confirmed that the Chinese version of AGOQ has good psychometric characteristics and can be used to measure the academic goal orientation of nursing students in China.

Alfalfa species Medicago sativa L. (MS) and Medicago falcata L. (MF), globally prominent perennial leguminous forages, hold substantial economic value. However, our comprehension of the molecular mechanisms governing their resistance to cold stress remains limited. To address this knowledge gap, we scrutinized and compared MS and MF cold-stress responses at the molecular level following 24 h and 120 h low-temperature exposure (4 °C). Our study revealed that MF had superior physiological resilience to cold stress compared with MS, and its morphology was healthier under cold stress, and its malondialdehyde content and superoxide dismutase activity increased, first, and then decreased, while the soluble sugar content continued to accumulate. Transcriptome analysis showed that after 120 h of exposure, there were different gene-expression patterns between MS and MF, including 1274 and 2983 genes that were continuously up-regulated, respectively, and a total of 923 genes were included, including star cold-resistant genes such as ICE1 and SIP1. Gene ontology (GO) enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses revealed numerous inter-species differences in sustained cold-stress responses. Notably, MS-exclusive genes included a single transcription factor (TF) gene and several genes associated with a single DNA repair-related pathway, whereas MF-exclusive genes comprised nine TF genes and genes associated with 14 pathways. Both species exhibited high-level expression of genes encoding TFs belonging to AP2-EREBP, ARR-B, and bHLH TF families, indicating their potential roles in sustaining cold resistance in alfalfa-related species. These findings provide insights into the molecular mechanisms governing cold-stress responses in MS and MF, which could inform breeding programs aimed at enhancing cold-stress resistance in alfalfa cultivars.

ABSTRACTDynamic transposition of transposable elements (TEs) in fungal pathogens has significant impact on genome stability, gene expression, and virulence to the host. In Magnaporthe oryzae, genome plasticity resulting from TE insertion is a major driving force leading to the rapid evolution and diversification of this fungus. Despite their importance in M. oryzae population evolution and divergence, our understanding of TEs in this context remains limited. Here, we conducted a genome-wide analysis of TE transposition dynamics in the 11 most abundant TE families in M. oryzae populations. Our results show that these TEs have specifically expanded in recently isolated M. oryzae rice populations, with the presence/absence polymorphism of TE insertions highly concordant with population divergence on Geng/Japonica and Xian/Indica rice cultivars. Notably, the genes targeted by clade-specific TEs showed clade-specific expression patterns and are involved in the pathogenic process, suggesting a transcriptional regulation of TEs on targeted genes. Our study provides a comprehensive analysis of TEs in M. oryzae populations and demonstrates a crucial role of recent TE bursts in adaptive evolution and diversification of the M. oryzae rice-infecting lineage.IMPORTANCEMagnaporthe oryzae is the causal agent of the destructive blast disease, which caused massive loss of yield annually worldwide. The fungus diverged into distinct clades during adaptation toward the two rice subspecies, Xian/Indica and Geng/Japonica. Although the role of TEs in the adaptive evolution was well established, mechanisms underlying how TEs promote the population divergence of M. oryzae remain largely unknown. In this study, we reported that TEs shape the population divergence of M. oryzae by differentially regulating gene expression between Xian/Indica-infecting and Geng/Japonica-infecting populations. Our results revealed a TE insertion-mediated gene expression adaption that led to the divergence of M. oryzae population infecting different rice subspecies.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated condition that persistently harms the central nervous system. While existing treatments can slow its course, a cure remains elusive. Stem cell therapy has gained attention as a promising approach, offering new perspectives with its regenerative and immunomodulatory properties. This article reviews the application of stem cells in MS, encompassing various stem cell types, therapeutic potential mechanisms, preclinical explorations, clinical research advancements, safety profiles of clinical applications, as well as limitations and challenges, aiming to provide new insights into the treatment research for MS.

ObjectiveFrailty and activities of daily living (ADL) disability are common conditions among older population. Studies on the bidirectional relationship between frailty and ADL are limited. The current study examined the cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between frailty and ADL in middle-aged and older Chinese individuals.MethodsThe data was collected through the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), conducted in 2011, 2013, and 2015, encompassing 17,284 individuals aged ≥45 years. We excluded individuals without follow-up data. 2,631 participants finished the baseline survey. The definition of ADL disability encompasses difficulty in engaging in either basic activities of daily living (BADL) or instrumental activities of daily living (IADL). Frailty was assessed according to the Fried criteria. Logistic regression was utilized to examine odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for assessing the cross-sectional relationships between ADL with frailty at baseline. The prediction effects were explored using Cox proportional hazards analysis, testing hazard ratios (HRs) and 95%CIs.ResultsIn cross-sectional analysis, BADL [OR = 6.660 (4.519–9.815)], IADL [OR = 5.950 (4.490–7.866)], and ADL [OR = 5.658 (4.278–7.483)] exhibited significant associations with frailty; frailty demonstrated significant associations with BADL [OR = 6.741 (4.574–9.933)], IADL [OR = 6.042 (4.555–8.016)] and ADL [OR = 5.735 (4.333–7.591)]. In longitudinal analysis, IADL and ADL were significantly associated with frailty in participants without baseline frailty in the short-term period [IADL: HR = 1.971 (1.150–3.379), ADL: HR = 1.920 (1.146–3.215)], IADL exhibited a significant association with frailty in the long-term period [HR = 2.056 (1.085–3.895)]. There was no significant link observed between frailty and an elevated risk of disability onset in BADL, IADL and ADL during the short-term period. When considering the long-term perspective, frailty exhibited a significant association with an elevated risk of disability onset in BADL [HR= 1.820 (1.126–2.939)] and IADL [HR = 1.724 (1.103–2.694)].ConclusionIn middle-aged and older adults, ADL and IADL disability predicted frailty after 2-year follow-up, IADL disability predicted frailty after 4-year follow-up. Moreover, frailty did not predict BADL, IADL and ADL disability after 2-year follow-up. However, frailty predicted BADL and IADL disability after 4-year follow-up.

ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and its influencing factors among intern nursing students after the full liberalization of the COVID-19 prevention and control policy in China.MethodsParticipants completed the online survey from January 14 to January 19, 2023. A demographic questionnaire, COVID-19 and internship-related questionnaire, the Fear of COVID-19 scale, the Primary Care PTSD Screen, and the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale were used to conduct the online survey.ResultsOf 438 participants, 88.4% tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 6 months. The prevalence of fear, resilience, and PTSD was 16.9, 15.5, and 11.2%, respectively. Direct care of COVID patients in hospital (OR = 2.084, 95%CI 1.034 ~ 4.202), the experience of occupational exposure (OR = 2.856, 95%CI 1.436 ~ 5.681), working with an experienced team (OR = 2.120, 95%CI 1.070 ~ 4.198), and fear COVID-19 (OR = 8.269, 95%CI 4.150 ~ 16.479) were significantly and positively associated with PTSD in nursing internship students.ConclusionAfter COVID-19 full liberalization in China, intern nursing students still experienced pandemic-related mental distress, which can bring PTSD. Adequate support and counseling should be provided, as needed, to intern nursing students who are about to enter the workforce and have experienced severe PTSD symptoms related to COVID-19. Our findings indicated that should understand the importance of screening, formulate intervention strategies and preventive measures to address psychosocial problems, and provide coping skills training to intern nursing students.

Abstract Background Epidemiological studies have revealed multiple risk factors for metabolic syndrome. However, there are no consistent findings on the association between famine exposure, age at menarche, and the prevalence of metabolic syndrome. This cross-sectional study aimed to reveal the individual and combined effects of famine exposure and age at menarche on the prevalence of metabolic syndrome among elderly women. Methods Four thousand seven hundred seventy participants between 60 and 93 years of age were selected from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. Statistical differences between the baseline characteristics of famine exposure, age at menarche, and metabolic syndrome were evaluated using the t-test, F-test, and Chi-square test. Three multivariable-adjusted logistic regression models were used to test the association between famine exposure, age of menarche, and the odds ratio of metabolic syndrome. Results Two thousand one hundred ninety-eight (46.08%) participants had metabolic syndrome, while 2572 (53.92%) participants did not. Furthermore, 3068 (64.32%) women reported onset of menarche under 15 years of age, while 1702 (35.68%) women reported onset of menarche above 16 years of age. Regarding the separate association of famine exposure and age of menarche with metabolic syndrome, in model three, the adolescence/adulthood famine exposure group vs. no famine exposure group odds ratio was 2.45 (95% CI 2.02, 2.97), and the older than 16 years vs. younger than 15 years group odds ratio was 1.23 (95% CI 1.09, 1.39), which was the highest odds ratio among the three models. Regarding the combined association of famine exposure and age of menarche with metabolic syndrome, in model three, among the age of menarche ≤ 15 years group, the adolescence/adulthood famine exposure vs. no famine exposure group odds ratio was 2.45 (95% CI: 1.91, 3.14); among the menarche age ≥ 16 years group, the adolescence/adulthood famine exposure stages vs. exposed group odds ratio was 3.27 (95% CI: 2.44, 4.38), which was the highest odds ratio among the three models. Conclusion These findings suggested that famine exposure and age at menarche, either separately or in combination, were positively associated with the prevalence of metabolic syndrome among older women.

Abstract Objective To improve the quality of community nursing teaching practice and cultivate undergraduate nursing students who meet the quality accreditation standards of our nursing profession, and to explore the establishment of an undergraduate nurse practice model. Methods Using the methods of literature review, survey, expert consultation, and discussion, we established the steps and contents of community practice teaching for undergraduate nursing students, and implemented them for the students of Grades 2014, 2015, and 2016, and evaluated the “community-hospital-community” practice model through various forms, such as student self-evaluation, faculty evaluation, exit examination, and evaluation by certified experts. Result A three-stage community nursing practice model of “community-hospital-community” was established for undergraduate nursing students. After three stages of practice, nursing undergraduates successfully passed the practical assessments and achieved excellent grades in each stage that met the requirements of the training program. In the first stage (community probation), community probation emphasizes a fundamental understanding of the community, using free clinics, health education, and home visits as entry points to effectively cultivate students’ job competence and proficiency in nursing operations and nurse-patient communication skills. In the second stage (internship in the hospital), through nursing internships in various systems, students are trained to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical skills and consolidate their understanding of fundamental knowledge, theory, and techniques. They are capable of preventing, diagnosing, intervening, and providing health education for common, frequent, urgent and critical complications in various clinical systems. They can formulate nursing plans and implement whole-person care. In the third stage (returning to the community for internship), students can master basic skills such as nursing operations and patient communication skills, and then they can enter the community internship. Conclusion The community nursing practice model of “community- hospital- community” for undergraduate nursing students can systematically train undergraduate nursing students’ ability to work in the community.

Abstract Background In this study, a cross-sectional survey was used to understand and analyze the health status and health needs of the elderly in the community. The cluster analysis method was used to explore the relationship between health needs items and investigate the commonness among health demand items, to provide a reference for the development of health management of the elderly with chronic diseases. Methods We used convenience sampling to recruit the participants (aged 60 and above) from four urban community centers in Jinzhou City, Liaoning Province, China, in this study. This study uses the Medical Outcomes Study(MOS)36-Item Short-Form Health Survey. The self-designed questionnaire includes sociodemographic characteristics, chronic diseases, physical examination conditions, illness in the past two weeks, and a health needs questionnaire. SPSS 18.0 was used for data entry and analysis. Data analysis methods included descriptive statistical analysis, t-test, one-way analysis, cluster analysis, and linear multiple regression analysis. Results The rate of health needs among the elderly in the community for various health services is 1.3–69.7%, of which the top three are: regular physical examination (69.7%), day Care Center (67.7%), the establishment of a Medical Alert Systems (66.1%). The health needs of the elderly in the community are divided into three categories: basic needs (24 items), health education (13 items), and first aid (2 items). The regression analysis found that the influencing factors of health status were age, revenue and expenditure, medical expenses, health education, basic needs, and first aid. Conclusions The community should strengthen the management of chronic diseases of the elderly and the publicity and education of related knowledge, and provide complementary health care services according to the health needs of the elderly, improve the health of the elderly, and improve the quality of life of the elderly.

Water pollution seriously affects the development of society and human life. There are various kinds of pollutants, including soluble pollutants and insoluble floaters on the water surface. Herein, the photocatalyst semiconductor BiOCl and superhydrophobic functional particles Mg(OH)2 were deposited on the surfaces of canvas and polyester felt to construct superhydrophobic canvas and polyester felt. The contact angles of the synthetic superhydrophobic canvas and polyester felt were measured as 152° and 155.3°, respectively. The selective adsorption of hexadecane was achieved using the wetting difference between the surface of water and pollutants floating on the surface. For dissolved pollutants, the surface wettability needed to be changed with the help of ethanol. The degradation efficiencies were all greater than 90%, demonstrating the versatility of the synthetic superhydrophobic canvas and polyester felt.

Stem canker and black scurf of potatoes, caused by Rhizoctonia solani, are economically important diseases. Although the field application of sodium silicate has been shown to improve potato’s resistance against R. solani, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we examined this resistance using transcriptomic analysis. Potato stems inoculated with R. solani were treated with sodium silicate, while a control group received no sodium silicate treatment. The plants were grown under natural environmental conditions at the farm of Inner Mongolia Agricultural University. Potato stems were sampled 4, 8, and 12 days after treatment. Total RNA was extracted using the TRIzol reagent and transformed into cDNA. The cDNA was sequenced, the reads were aligned, and the expression levels of genes were quantified and compared between the treated and control groups. A total of 1491 genes were identified as differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Furthermore, these DEGs were found to be involved in hydrolase activity, plant–pathogen interactions, hormone signal transduction, and the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway. To confirm the up- and down-regulation of DEGs, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was performed on randomly selected genes. The results showed that the application of sodium silicate induces a complex defense network in potato plants involving physical barriers, innate immunity, phytohormone signaling, and various phenylpropanoid compounds to combat R. solani infection. This study provides valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying sodium-silicate-induced resistance and its potential for reducing stem canker and black scurf in potato crops.

Alpine grassland is one of the most fragile and sensitive ecosystems, and it serves as a crucial ecological security barrier on the Tibetan Plateau. Due to the combined influence of climate change and human activities, the degradation of the alpine grassland in Gannan Prefecture has been increasing recent years, causing increases in ecological risk (ER) and leading to the grassland ecosystem facing unprecedented challenges. In this context, it is particularly crucial to construct a potential grassland damage index (PGDI) and assessment framework that can be used to effectively characterize the damage and risk to the alpine grassland ecosystem. This study comprehensively uses multi-source data to construct a PGDI based on the grassland resilience index, landscape ER index, and grass–livestock balance index. Thereafter, we proposed a feasible framework for assessing the comprehensive ER of alpine grassland and analyzed the responsive relationship between the comprehensive ER and comprehensive ecosystem services (ESs) of the grassland. There are four findings. The first is that the comprehensive ER of the alpine grassland in Gannan Prefecture from 2000–2020 had a low distribution in the southeast and a high distribution trend in the northwest, with medium risk (29.27%) and lower risk (27.62%) dominating. The high-risk area accounted for 4.58% and was mainly in Lintan County, the border between Diebu and Zhuoni Counties, the eastern part of Xiahe County, and the southwest part of Hezuo. Second, the comprehensive ESs showed a pattern of low distribution in the northwest and high distribution in the southeast. The low and lower services accounted for only 9.30% of the studied area and were mainly distributed in the west of Maqu County and central Lintan County. Third, the Moran’s index values for comprehensive ESs and ER for 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015, and 2020 were −0.246, −0.429, −0.348, −0.320, and −0.285, respectively, thereby indicating significant negative spatial autocorrelation for all aspects. Fourth, ER was caused by the combined action of multiple factors. There are significant differences in the driving factors that affect ER. Landscape index is the first dominant factor affecting ER, with q values greater than 0.25, followed by DEM and NDVI. In addition, the interaction between diversity index and NDVI had the greatest impact on ER. Overall, this study offers a new methodological framework for the quantification of comprehensive ER in alpine grasslands.

Abstract Background Since March 2022, the COVID-19 epidemic has rebounded widely and frequently in China. Healthcare workers have faced grand challenges such as soaring COVID-19 patients, being busy with the nucleic acid screening of all the populations in the epidemic areas every day, and testing positive for COVID-19, all of which contributed to anxiety easily according to the Conservation of Resources theory. However, anxiety among healthcare workers is not only associated with personal health but also adversely affects the quality of health services. Therefore, it is crucial to search for suitable tools to monitor the anxiety related to COVID-19 among healthcare workers. The current study aimed to test the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS) in Chinese healthcare workers. Methods The current study employed a cross-sectional design. The CAS was translated into Chinese. Then, according to Classical Test Theory (CTT) and Item Response Theory (IRT) models, the psychometric properties of the Chinese version were measured among 811 healthcare workers. Results The split‐half reliability was 0.855. The Cronbach’s α coefficient was 0.895. The retest coefficient was 0.901 with 10 days as the retest interval. The content validity index was 0.920. In exploratory factor analysis, one common factor was extracted and explained 72.559% of the total variance. All item load values on the common factor ranged from 0.790 to 0.885, and the communality of each item ranged from 0.625 to 0.784. With confirmatory factor analysis, the single factor model showed an excellent goodness-of-fit, chi-square/degree of freedom (χ 2 /df) = 3.339, goodness of fit index (GFI) = 0.992, adjusted goodness of fit index (AGFI) = 0.975, root-mean-square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.054, root mean square residual (RMR) = 0.005, incremental fit index (IFI) = 0.967, Tucker-Lewis index (TLI) = 0.932, and comparative fit index (CFI) = 0.966. The multiple-group confirmatory factor analysis revealed the invariance measuring anxiety of COVID-19 was in similar ways across ages, hospital degrees, and professional titles. With convergent validity, the CAS was positively correlated with post-traumatic stress disorder (r = 0.619, P

ObjectiveTo explore the association between psychological stress and body mass index (BMI) among the persons with fertility intention. MethodsThe 625 010 (307 002 male and 318 008 female) participants of the study were 20 – 49 years old individuals having pre-parental eugenic health examinations free of charge during the period from January 2013 to December 2019 in Shenzhen city, Guangdong province. Questionnaire interview was conducted among the participants to collect information on demographics and psychological condition. According to the Guidelines of Overweight and Obesity Prevention and Control for Chinese Adults, the BMI is less than 18.5 for underweight, 18.5 – 23.9 for normal weight, 24.0 – 27.9 for overweight, and more than 28.0 for obesity. Unconditional logistic regression model was used to analyze the association of psychological stress with BMI. ResultsAmong all the participants, 384 963 (61.59%) were with normal weight and the number (proportion) of underweight, overweight, and obesity were 77 692 (12.43%) , 130 086 (20.81%), and 32 269 (5.16%), respectively. There were 80 892 (12.94%) of the participants were assessed as having psychological stress. Logistic regression analysis showed that the participants with psychological stress were at increased risks of underweight (odds ratio [OR] = 1.04, 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 1.01 – 1.07), overweight (OR = 1.07, 95%CI: 1.05 – 1.10), and obesity (OR = 1.18, 95%CI: 1.14 – 1.23) compared to those without the stress. In age- and gender-specific subgroup analysis, the psychological stress-related risk increment of overweight and obesity were not significant for the participants aged 40 – 49 years; the female participants were at higher increased risks of psychological stress-related overweight and obesity than the male participants; but the male participants were at higher increased risks of psychological stress-related obesity and underweight than the female participants. ConclusionPsychological stress is associated with increased risk of abnormal BMI and there are age and gender differences for the psychological stress-related BMI abnormality among 20 – 49 years old people with fertility intention.

BackgroundMetabolic syndrome (MetS) is on the rise in developing countries and is characterized by a series of indications of metabolic disturbance. However, the prevalence of MetS varies under different definitions. The study aimed to compare five definitions of MetS in the China adult population, to explore their prevalence, characteristics and agreement.MethodsThe data for the retrospective study came from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), consisting of 9,588 participants (≥45). MetS definitions from International Diabetes Federation (IDF) (2006), National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (ATPIII) (2005), National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (ATPIII) (2001), Chinese Diabetes society (CDS) (2004) and the World Health Organization (WHO) (1999). We used binary and multivariable logistic analysis to explore factors connected with MetS.ResultsThe five definitions of MetS led to different prevalence of MetS:34.52% by IDF (2006), 38.63% by ATP (2005), 25.94% by ATP (2001), 26.31% by CDS (2004), 21.57% by WHO (1999). According to the definition of IDF (2006) (22.32% vs. 45.06%), ATPIII (2005) definition (27.99% vs. 47.82%), ATPIII (2001) definition (15.37% vs. 35.07%), CDS (2004) definition (19.96% vs. 31.80%), and WHO (1999) definition (17.44% vs. 25.14%), the prevalence of MetS in men was low but in women was high. The agreement between the five definitions for men was good except for the IDF (2006) definition and ATPIII (2001) definition (kappa = 0.51), with kappa values from 0.64 to 0.85. For women, the agreement between the five definitions was good ranging from 0.67 to 0.95, however, except for the definition of CDS (2004) and the definition of IDF (2006) (kappa = 0.44), the definition of WHO (1999) and the definition of IDF (2006) (kappa = 0.55), and the definition of WHO (1999) and the definition of ATPIII (2005) (kappa = 0.54). Binary logistic analysis indicated that although the impact and relevance varied by sex and definition, age, education, marital status, current residence, current smoking, alcohol using, taking activities and number of chronic diseases were factors connected to MetS.Conclusionthe prevalence and characteristics of the five definitions of MetS are different in the Chinese population. Therefore, it is vital to use the same definition for a country to diagnose MetS. On the other side, a lower prevalence in men than in women and the consistency of five MetS definitions are good in men but relatively poor in women.

BackgroundInsomnia in healthcare workers has become a topic of concern in the health system. The high infectivity and longevity of the COVID-19 pandemic have resulted in great pressure and a high incidence of insomnia among healthcare workers. Insomnia among healthcare workers has a negative impact on high-quality healthcare services in addition to their health. Thus, it's necessary to explore insomnia's underlying mechanisms.ObjectThe present research's aims were threefold: explored the association between social support, resilience, COVID-19 anxiety, and insomnia among healthcare workers during the pandemic, elucidated the underlying mechanism of insomnia, and offered recommendations for improving the health of these workers.Materials and methodsA cross-sectional design was adopted. From May 20 to 30, 2022, 1038 healthcare workers were selected to fill out the Oslo 3-item Social Support Scale, the eight-item Athens Insomnia Scale, the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale, and the Brief Resilience Scale. Descriptive statistics and correlations were analyzed by SPSS 25.0. Mediation analysis was conducted by Mplus 8.3 using 5000 bootstrap samples.ResultsOf the participating 1038 healthcare workers, the prevalence of insomnia was 41.62% (432/1038). Significant associations were found involving insomnia, resilience, COVID-19 anxiety, and social support. Insomnia was directly affected by social support. Moreover, three indirect pathways explain how social support affected insomnia: resilience's mediating role, COVID-19 anxiety's mediating role, and the chain-mediation role of resilience and COVID-19 anxiety.ConclusionThe results validated our hypotheses and supported the opinion of Spielman et al. ‘s three-factor model of insomnia. Social support of healthcare workers has an indirect impact on insomnia in addition to its direct one via independent and chain-mediation effects of resilience and COVID-19 anxiety.

Abstract Macrophage‐myofibroblast transition (MMT) is a newly discovered pathway for mass production of pro‐tumoral cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in non‐small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) in a TGF‐β1/Smad3 dependent manner. Better understanding its regulatory signaling in tumor microenvironment (TME) may identify druggable target for the development of precision medicine. Here, by dissecting the transcriptome dynamics of tumor‐associated macrophage at single‐cell resolution, a crucial role of a hematopoietic transcription factor Runx1 in MMT formation is revealed. Surprisingly, integrative bioinformatic analysis uncovers Runx1 as a key regulator in the downstream of MMT‐specific TGF‐β1/Smad3 signaling. Stromal Runx1 level positively correlates with the MMT‐derived CAF abundance and mortality in NSCLC patients. Mechanistically, macrophage‐specific Runx1 promotes the transcription of genes related to CAF signatures in MMT cells at genomic level. Importantly, macrophage‐specific genetic deletion and systemic pharmacological inhibition of TGF‐β1/Smad3/Runx1 signaling effectively prevent MMT‐driven CAF and tumor formation in vitro and in vivo, representing a potential therapeutic target for clinical NSCLC.