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Abstract Water oxidation presents a promising avenue for hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production. However, the reliance on alkaline bicarbonate electrolytes as an intermediate has limitations, such as H2O2 decomposition and a narrow pH effectiveness range (7–9), restricting its utility across wider pH ranges. This study unveils a crystal OH mediating pathway that stabilizes SO4OH* as a crucial intermediate. Basic copper carbonate (Cu2(OH)2CO3) tablets, commonly found on cultural relics, exhibit the capability to generate H2O2 in neutral or acidic non-bicarbonate electrolytes. By leveraging this crystal OH mediating strategy, considerable H2O2 production in Na2SO4 electrolytes is achievable. Notably, the H2O2 production rate can reach 64.35 μmol h−1 at 3.4 V vs. RHE in a 50 mL 0.5 M Na2SO4 electrolyte. This research underscores the importance of crystal part in catalyst in catalyzing the 2e− water oxidation reaction, offering valuable insights for future investigations.

Abstract Background Hyperoside (quercetin-3-O-β-D-galactopyranoside) is a flavonol glycoside compound derived from plants in the Hypericum and Crataegus genera that reportedly exhibits an array of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antitumor properties such that it has been used to treat various diseases. Whether it can serve as an effective treatment for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) cells, however, has yet to be established. The present study was thus devised to assess the therapeutic effects of hyperoside on CML cells and to clarify the underlying mechanism of action. Methods Cellular viability, proliferative activity, migration, and apoptotic death were respectively analyzed through CCK-8, EDU, transwell, and flow cytometry assays. RNA-seq and bioinformatics approaches were further employed to evaluate the mechanisms through which hyperoside influences CML cells, while analyses of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and free iron were detected with commercial kits. Transmission electron microscopy was used to assess mitochondrial morphology. Molecular docking, cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA), and drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS) approaches were also used to explore the ability of hyperoside to target NRF2. Results From a mechanistic perspective, hyperoside was able to inhibit SLC7A11/GPX4 signaling in a manner that was abrogated by the ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin-1. NRF2 was also closely associated with the inactivation of the SLC7A11/GPX4 axis mediated by hyperoside such that overexpressing NRF2 ablated the benefits associated with hyperoside treatment. Conclusions The present analyses indicate that hyperoside can target the NRF2/SLC7A11/GPX4 axis to induce ferroptotic CML cell death.

Abstract This study examines different and even conflicting media frames for the Chinese COVID-19 vaccine as a global public good. Through a standardised content analysis approach examining media frames for the Chinese COVID-19 vaccine across three media outlets, the study reveals that Chinese media emphasise the safety and efficacy of their vaccines, highlighting their benefits for the international community. Conversely, the US and German media express apprehensions about China’s ‘vaccine diplomacy’ and perceive it as a political threat. Notably, Germany exhibits a relatively softer stance in this context, implying the existence of various attitudes and behaviours within the US and Europe in terms of coping with China’s rising influence. This case reflects the ongoing competition between superpowers, with the ‘China Threat Theory’ and the ‘China Responsibility Theory’ representing two major ideas dominating international discourse about China. China’s identity as a global public goods supplier in the context of the global pandemic may not make it more acceptable as a responsible great power, but rather, create more Western anxieties over China’s threat to the liberal international order.

The pilot well BYP5 is a cored well drilled to explore the oil and gas bearing properties of the highly thermally evolved lower sub-member of the third member of the Paleogene Shahejie Formation in the Bonan deep sag of the Zhanhua Sag, Bohai Bay Basin. The coring interval depth ranges from 4 267.0 to 4 338.1 m. To reveal the oil and gas bearing properties of the cored interval, pyrolysis of frozen, sealed fragments was conducted on typical samples and the escaping gas from the core was collected and quantified for composition analysis. The results show that the cored interval is a high-quality hydrocarbon source rock rich in organic matter and carbonates, with a maturity (Ro) of about 1.2%. Efficient hydrocarbon generation and expulsion likely occurred during thermal evolution, causing the current low free hydrocarbon (S1) and hydrogen index (IH) values. The content of the hydrocarbon gas from the core was generally low, ranging from 0.001 to 0.01 cm3/g, with an average of 0.005 cm3/g. Segments with relatively high levels of escaping hydrocarbon gas corresponded to those with relatively high pyrolysis S1 values. The escaping gas was mainly composed of CH4, CO2, H2, and C2H6, with mole percentages of H2 ranging from 1.08% to 19.23%, with an average of 7.09%, indicating hydrogen-rich characteristics. H2 showed a significant positive correlation with CO2 and a negative correlation with CH4. The escaping gas from the core was likely trapped in-situ, and the formation of H2 might be related to the cleavage of hetero-bonds and demethylation during the pyrolysis of organic matter. Further research is suggested on the formation mechanism, geological exploration, and evaluation of natural hydrogen released during organic matter pyrolysis, so as to provide a basis for the decision-making in the exploration and development of this type of natural hydrogen resource.

Abstract Background Cluster of differentiation 24 (CD24) is a highly glycosylated glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored surface protein, expressed in various tumor cells, as a "don't eat me" signaling molecule in tumor immune. This study aimed to investigate the potential features of CD24 in pan-cancer. Methods The correlations between 22 immune cells and CD24 expression were using TIMER analysis. R package “ESTIMATE” was used to predict the proportion of immune and stromal cells in pan-cancer. Spearman's correlation analysis was performed to evaluate the relationships between CD24 expression and immune checkpoints, chemokines, mismatch repair, tumor mutation burden and microsatellite instability, and qPCR and western blot were conducted to assess CD24 expression levels in liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC). In addition, loss of function was performed for the biological evaluation of CD24 in LIHC. Results CD24 expression was positively correlated with myeloid cells, including neutrophils and myeloid-derived suppressor cells, in various tumors, such as BLCA, HNSC-HPV, HNSC, KICH, KIRC, KIRP, TGCT, THCA, THYM, and UCEC. In contrast, anti-tumor NK cells and NKT cells showed a negative association with CD24 expression in BRCA-Her2, ESCA, HNSC-HPV, KIRC, THCA, and THYM. The top three tumors with the highest correlation between CD24 and ImmuneScore were TGCT, THCA, and SKCM. Functional enrichment analysis revealed CD24 expression was negatively associated with various immune-related pathways. Immune checkpoints and chemokines also exhibited inverse correlations with CD24 in CESC, CHOL, COAD, ESCA, READ, TGCT, and THCA. Additionally, CD24 was overexpressed in most tumors, with high CD24 expression in BRCA, LIHC, and CESC correlating with poor prognosis. The TIDE database indicated tumors with high CD24 expression, particularly melanoma, were less responsive to PD1/PD-L1 immunotherapy. Finally, CD24 knockdown resulted in impaired proliferation and cell cycle progression in LIHC. Conclusion CD24 participates in regulation of immune infiltration, influences patient prognosis and serves as a potential tumor marker.

Abstract Serine/threonine kinase receptor-associated protein (STRAP) serves as a scaffold protein and is engaged in a variety of cellular activities, although its importance in antiviral innate immunity is unknown. We discovered that STRAP works as an interferon (IFN)-inducible positive regulator, facilitating type I IFN signaling during pseudorabies virus infection. Mechanistically, STRAP interacts with TBK1 to activate type I IFN signaling. Both the CT and WD40 7 − 6 domains contribute to the function of STRAP. Furthermore, TBK1 competes with PRV-UL50 for binding to STRAP, and STRAP impedes the degradation of TBK1 mediated by PRV-UL50, thereby increasing the interaction between STRAP and TBK1. Overall, these findings reveal a previously unrecognized role for STRAP in innate antiviral immune responses during PRV infection. STRAP could be a potential therapeutic target for viral infectious diseases.

Abstract Background The dimerizable Cre recombinase system (DiCre) exhibits increased leaky activity in Cryptosporidium, leading to unintended gene editing in the absence of induction. Therefore, optimization of the current DiCre technique is necessary for functional studies of essential Cryptosporidium genes. Methods Based on the results of transcriptomic analysis of Cryptosporidium parvum stages, seven promoters with different transcriptional capabilities were screened to drive the expression of Cre fragments (FKBP-Cre59 and FRB-Cre60). Transient transfection was performed to assess the effect of promoter strength on leakage activity. In vitro and in vivo experiments were performed to evaluate the leaky activity and cleavage efficiency of the optimized DiCre system by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), nanoluciferase, and fluorescence analyses. Results The use of promoters with lower transcriptional activity, such as pcgd6_4110 and pcgd3_260, as opposed to strong promoters such as pActin, pα-Tubulin, and pEnolase, reduced the leakage rate of the system from 35–75% to nearly undetectable levels, as verified by transient transfection. Subsequent in vitro and in vivo experiments using stable lines further demonstrated that the optimized DiCre system had no detectable leaky activity. The system achieved 71% cleavage efficiency in vitro. In mice, a single dose of the inducer resulted in a 10% conditional gene knockout and fluorescent protein expression in oocysts. These fluorescently tagged transgenic oocysts could be enriched by flow sorting for further infection studies. Conclusions A DiCre conditional gene knockout system for Cryptosporidium with good cleavage efficiency and reduced leaky activity has been successfully established. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Background Postpartum depression (PPD) has received widespread attention. Shenzhen has been running a large-scale program for PPD since 2013. The program requires mothers to self-assess when applying information technology to PPD screening beginning in 2021. The purpose of this study was to conduct a longitudinal analysis of the impact of mHealth apps on the health-seeking behaviors of PPD patients. Methods Longitudinal data from districts in the Shenzhen Maternal and Child Health Management Information System (MCHMIS) for ten years was used in this study. Referral success rate (RSR, successful referrals to designated hospitals as a percentage of needed referrals) was used to assess health-seeking behavior. Trend χ2 tests were used to assess the overall trend of change after the implementation of mHealth in ten districts in Shenzhen. Interrupted Time Series Analysis (ITSA) was employed to assess the role of the mHealth app in changing patient health-seeking behaviors. Results For the results of the trend χ2 tests, the ten districts of Shenzhen showed an upward trend. For the ITSA results, different results were shown between districts. Nanshan district, Longhua district, and Longgang district all demonstrated an upward trend in the first-year application of the mHealth app. Nanshan district and Longgang district both exhibited an upward trend in terms of sustained effects. Conclusions There is a difference in the performance of the mHealth app across the ten districts. The results show that the three districts with better health resource allocation, Nanshan, Longgang, and Longhua districts, demonstrated more significant mHealth app improvements. The mHealth app’s functions, management systems, and health resource allocation may be potential factors in the results. This suggests that when leveraging mHealth applications, the first step is to focus on macro-level area resource allocation measures. Secondly, there should be effective process design and strict regulatory measures. Finally, there should also be appropriate means of publicity.

Abstract SLAMF9, a member of the conserved lymphocyte activation molecules family (SLAMF), has been less investigated compared to other SLAMs, especially concerning its implications across various cancer types. In our systematic pan-cancer investigation, we observed elevated SLAMF9 expression in various tumor tissues, which was correlated with reduced patient survival across most malignancies. Correlation analyses further revealed significant associations between SLAMF9 expression and immune cell infiltrates, immune checkpoint inhibitors, tumor mutation load, microsatellite instability, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) scores. Cell-based assays demonstrated that SLAMF9 knockdown attenuated the proliferative, motile, and invasive capacities of colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. In a nude mouse xenograft model, suppression of SLAMF9 expression substantially inhibited tumor growth. These findings highlight the potential of SLAMF9 as a prognostic and therapeutic biomarker across tumors, with notable implications for CRC cell proliferation and migration.

In order to explore the effects of melatonin (MT) treatment on cold resistance in apricot fruits, Xinjiang-grown ‘Saimaiti’ apricot fruits were treated with MT or distilled water as a control at 0.05 MPa for 2 min followed by atmospheric pressure for 8 min. During 49 days of storage at (0 ± 0.5) ℃ and relative humidity of 90%–95%, chilling injury index, incidence of chilling injury, cell membrane permeability, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, superoxide anion (O2-·) production rate, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) content, antioxidant content, energy substance content and related enzyme activity were measured every 7 days, and mitochondrial structure was observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results showed that MT treatment effectively inhibited the increase of cell membrane permeability and the accumulation of MDA during storage, significantly reduced the incidence and index of chilling injury, and delayed the occurrence of chilling injury symptoms. In addition, compared with the control group, MT treatment enhanced the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), aseorbate peroxidase (APX) and glutathione reductase (GR), inhibited the increase of O2-· production rate and the accumulation of H2O2, increased glutathione (GSH) content, delayed the decrease of ascorbic acid (ASA) content, and effectively maintained the balance of intracellular ROS. MT treatment could also effectively delay the decrease of succinic dehydrogenase (SDH), cytochrome c oxidase (CCO) and H+-ATPase and Ca2+-ATPase during storage, maintain high levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and energy state, and preserve the integrity of mitochondrial structure and function. In conclusion, MT treatment could enhance the cold resistance of apricot fruits by regulating the energy metabolism and antioxidant capacity. This provides a new theoretical basis for chilling injury control of apricot fruits.

Cadmium (Cd) is one of the main pollutants in the water environment, exhibiting bioaccumulation and toxicological effects on fish. In this study, dongtingking crucian carp (Carassius auratus indigentiaus) were exposed to 0 (control group), 0.1, 0.5 and 1.0 mg/L Cd for 30 days. The results showed that the liver body index and spleen body index increased gradually with increases in the Cd concentration, and morphological changes were observed in the spleen and liver. The level of accumulation of Cd in the tissues was as follows: gut > middle kidney > liver > spleen > gills > heart > brain > muscles. With increases in the concentration, the Cd enrichment concentration increased gradually in the spleen and middle kidney. Pathological features were observed in the intestines, gills, spleen and liver of C. auratus indigentiaus after 1.0 mg/L Cd exposure. The Lys content and the AKP, ACP, CAT, GSH-PX and SOD activities were significantly increased in the low concentration Cd exposure group (0.1 mg/L), and dramatically decreased in the high concentration Cd exposure group (1.0 mg/L). The expression levels of the IL-6 and IL-1β genes in the intestines, gills, spleen and liver, TNF-ɑ gene expression in the gills, spleen and liver, IgM, IgZ and C3 genes expression in the liver decreased gradually with increases in the Cd concentration, while the expression of TNF-ɑ gene in intestine, IgM, IgZ and C3 genes expression in intestine and gill increased with increasing Cd concentration. The expression of IgM, IgZ and C3 genes in the spleen were significantly increased in the 0.1 mg/L Cd exposure group, but significantly decreased in the 0.5 mg/L and 1.0 mg/L Cd exposure groups. These results indicate that low concentration of Cd (0.1 mg/L) might induce toxic excitability, but higher concentration of Cd (1.0 mg/L) inhibit the antioxidant and immune systems.

This research aimed to examine the effect of countercurrent ultrasound on extraction efficiency of cold brew coffee (CBC). The quality and flavor of CBC obtained by ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UE) were evaluated and compared with traditional extraction (TE). Meanwhile, the UE process was monitored in situ real-time using a near-infrared (NIR) spectrometer. The optimal UE parameters obtained by experiments were dual-frequency of 20/28 kHz, countercurrent ultrasonic treatment time of 50 min, ultrasonic power density of 320 W/L, and material-liquid ratio of 1:15. Under the optimal parameters, the total dissolved solids content (TDS) and extraction yield (EY) were 1.63 % and 20.52 %, respectively. This resulted in an 83.33 % improvement in efficiency matching the TDS and EY of a 5-h TE CBC. In comparison with the control, the contents of total polyphenols, total sugars, and total lipids after ultrasonic treatment increased by 13.79 %, 28.49 %, and 333.33 %, respectively, while the total acids content decreased by 27.81 %. HPLC and HS-SPME-GC/MS analysis showed similar non-volatile and volatile flavor components between UE and TE CBC. A quantitative partial least squares (PLS) prediction model was developed to monitor TDS and CGA levels during the UE CBC. This model demonstrated excellent calibration and prediction performance. (TDS: Rc = 0.9281; RMSECV = 0.0694; Rp = 0.9514; RMSEP = 0.0631. CGA: Rc = 0.9086; RMSECV = 0.0316; Rp = 0.9467; RMSEP = 0.0212). This study explored an efficient approach for the industrialization of CBC production and provided theoretical support for developing an intelligent control system for its process.

Abstract Background Emerging evidence suggests that alterations in BCAA metabolism may contribute to the pathogenesis of sarcopenia. However, the relationship between branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) and sarcopenia is incompletely understood, and existing literature presents conflicting results. In this study, we conducted a community-based study involving > 100,000 United Kingdom adults to comprehensively explore the association between BCAAs and sarcopenia, and assess the potential role of muscle mass in mediating the relationship between BCAAs and muscle strength. Methods Multivariable linear regression analysis examined the relationship between circulating BCAAs and muscle mass/strength. Logistic regression analysis assessed the impact of circulating BCAAs and quartiles of BCAAs on sarcopenia risk. Subgroup analyses explored the variations in associations across age, and gender. Mediation analysis investigated the potential mediating effect of muscle mass on the BCAA-muscle strength relationship. Results Among 108,017 participants (mean age: 56.40 ± 8.09 years; 46.23% men), positive associations were observed between total BCAA, isoleucine, leucine, valine, and muscle mass (beta, 0.56–2.53; p

Zein is a primary by-product of corn starch processing, which is inexpensive and easily obtainable. Based on its unique self-assembly properties, zein could be constructed into nanoparticles through various methods, enabling the loading and delivery of bioactive substances. The preparation methods of nanoparticles include anti-solvent precipitation, pH-driven, electrospray, and microfluidics. The preparation methods can produce zein-based nanoparticles that respond to various environmental stimuli and exhibit stable properties. This article reviews recent advances in the preparation methods, response types, and application progress of stimulus-responsive zein-based nanoparticles. The nanoparticles respond to endogenous (pH, enzymes, and redox) and exogenous environmental stimuli (magnetic and light), which have been used for encapsulated delivery of bioactive substances in smart packaging of food, nanopesticides, and nanomedicine. However, maximizing the effect of active substances is difficult to achieve by relying only on a single stimulus-response. Therefore, nanoparticles responding to multiple stimuli (double stimulation, triple stimulation, etc.) have become a new development trend in the delivery field. In the future, more research should be invested in developing multi-stimulus responsive nanoparticles, and how to combine the multiple response properties of nanoparticles with the targeted delivery of nanoparticles remains to be further explored.

Abstract Food availability and usage is a major adaptive force for the successful survival of animals in nature, yet little is known about the specific signals that activate the host digestive system to allow for the consumption of varied foods. Here, by using a food digestion system in C. elegans, we discover that bacterial peptidoglycan (PGN) is a unique food signal that activates animals to digest inedible food. We identified that a glycosylated protein, Bacterial Colonization Factor-1 (BCF-1), in the gut interacts with bacterial PGN, leading to the inhibition of the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt) by regulating the release of Neuropeptide-Like Protein (NLP-3). Interestingly, activating UPRmt was found to hinder food digestion, which depends on the innate immune p38 MAPK/PMK-1 pathway. Conversely, inhibiting PMK-1 was able to alleviate digestion defects in bcf-1 mutants. Furthermore, we demonstrate that animals with digestion defects experience reduced natural adaptation capabilities. This study reveals that PGN-BCF-1 interaction acts as “good-food signal” to promote food digestion and animal growth, which facilitates adaptation of the host animals by increasing ability to consume a wide range of foods in their natural environment.

Seasonal freeze–thaw profoundly perturbs soil water and carbon cycling in the mid to high-latitude regions. However, it remains largely unknown how the unidirectional freeze–thaw induced heterogeneity in cryosuction, water migration and redistribution affect layer-specific soil biochemical properties. In this study, a refilled Mollisol was frozen, thawed and peeled into six layers, all-round from outer layer (L1) to inner core (L6) to simulate unidirectional freeze–thaw. We observed that cryosuction drove the soil water to migrate from the inner to outer layers, significantly enriching the water content in the outer layer L1 by ratios of 1.08 ∼ 1.48, but noticeably depleting that in the inner core L6 by ratios of 0.74 ∼ 0.93. Such unidirectional freeze–thaw induced soil water redistribution tended to alleviate the dryness in the L1 of the low moisture columns initially with 30% of water holding capacity (WHC), but rendered the L1 of the high moisture columns (initially with 80% WHC) more susceptible to intensive mechanical destruction during ice crystallization. On the contrary, the water depletion in the inner layer L6 appeared to introduce secondary dry stress to the low moisture columns, but helped to temper the destructive ice expansion in the L6 of the high moisture columns. As a consequence, the soil microbial biomass carbon (SMBC) and CO2 emission rates were significantly higher in the outer layers of the low moisture columns, but noticeable greater in the inner layers of the high moisture columns. After 15 days of recovery from freeze-thaw, the soil respiratory entropy significantly reduced, and the correlation of SMBC and CO2 emission rates with the soil water content evolved from a quadratic to linear function. Although not directly applicable to larger scales, the heterogeneity of soil water and freezing intensity amplified by unidirectional freezing, and the legacy effects on soil microbial communities and respiratory activities observed from this mecrocosm experiment, collectively highlight the necessity to distinguish the unequal responses of different soil layers to the increasingly frequent freeze–thaw cycles under feature climate conditions.

Ecological security pattern (ESP) represents a sound spatial arrangement of ecosystem occurring in landscape. The research on the optimization of ESP aims to improve and restore the ecosystem functions by rationally allocating and optimizing the ecological elements based on the key ecological issues. Constructing and optimizing ESP can enhance the connectivity of regional habitat patches, which is of great significance for protecting and restoring biodiversity, improving ecosystem stability and resilience, and achieving regional sustainable development. However, it is a challenging task to systematically improve the connectivity and resilience of regional ecological networks under attacks. Little research has been done on enhancing the resilience of ecological networks under edge-based attacks. Based on morphological spatial pattern analysis (MSPA), minimum cumulative resistance (MCR) and greedy algorithm (GA) models, this study presents a new method to construct and optimize ESP. The Dongting Lake Basin in China, which is a typical region with rich biodiversity, complex landscape patterns, and intensive human activities, is taken as an example. The results indicate that the optimization of the ecological network has improved its connectivity by 51.62%, its robustness against random edge-based attacks by 41.13%, and its robustness against targeted edge-based attacks by 43.41%, relative to the initial ecological network. Monte Carlo test verifies the reliability of the optimization solution. The proposed method can be used for finding the network structure with the best robustness for specific edge-based attacks, and it provides valuable decision-making reference for ecological land planning and biodiversity conservation.

In the context of stroke and revascularization therapy, brain ischemia-reperfusion injury is a significant challenge that leads to oxidative stress and inflammation. Central to the cell's intrinsic immunity is the cGAS-STING pathway, which is typically activated by unusual DNA structures. The involvement of oxidized mitochondrial DNA (ox-mtDNA)—an oxidative stress byproduct—in this type of neurological damage has not been fully explored. This study is among the first to examine the effect of ox-mtDNA on the innate immunity of neurons following ischemia-reperfusion injury. Using a rat model of transient middle cerebral artery occlusion and a cellular model of oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation, we have discovered that ox-mtDNA activates the cGAS-STING pathway in neurons. Importantly, pharmacologically limiting the release of ox-mtDNA into the cytoplasm reduces inflammation and improves neurological functions. Our findings suggest that targeting ox-mtDNA release may be a valuable strategy to attenuate brain ischemia-reperfusion injury following revascularization therapy for acute ischemic stroke.

Oxidative dehydrogenation of propane (ODHP) is a reaction with significant practical significance. As for the industrial application of ODHP, it is challenging to achieve high activity and high propylene selectivity simultaneously. In this study, to overcome this obstacle, we designed a series of Cu/BN catalysts with unique morphologies for establishing a photothermal ODHP system with high efficiency and selectivity. Characterization and evaluation results revealed that Cu/BN-NS and Cu/BN-NF with enlarged specific surface areas exhibited higher catalytic activities. The localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) effect of Cu nanoparticles further enhanced the photothermal catalytic performances of Cu/BN catalysts under visible light irradiation. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first time to establish a BN-based photothermal ODHP catalytic system. This study is expected to pave pathways to realize high activity and propylene selectivity for the practical application of ODHP.

Abstract. Background:. The incidence of well-differentiated gastric neuroendocrine tumors (G-NET) is increasing annually, and while they have a good prognosis and low mortality rate, their high recurrence rate makes treatment options controversial. This study aims to determine the relationship between individualized treatment plans and the recurrence of G-NET. Methods:. We performed a multicenter, retrospective study of 94 patients with highly differentiated G-NET and treated at Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, and Beijing Zhong-Neng-Jian Hospital from November 2015 to September 2023. Risk factors for recurrence of G-NETs were investigated using chi-squared test and multifactorial logistic regression analysis. Results:. After a median follow-up of 49 months, the overall recurrence rate among the 94 G-NET patients was 14% (13/94). The recurrence rates of endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), somatostatin analog (SSA) therapy, and surgery were 43% (6/14), 10% (5/49), 5% (1/22), and 11% (1/9), respectively. Post-treatment recurrence rates were significantly different (P = 0.014) among four treatments (EMR, ESD, SSA, and surgery), and further subgroup comparisons revealed lower recurrence rates in the ESD and SSA groups than in the EMR group. From the second month onward, SSA therapy considerably reduced the gastrin levels from 1081.0 (571.5, 2472.8) pg/mL to 461.5 (255.3, 795.0) pg/mL (Z = –3.521, P

Apricot has a long history of cultivation and has many varieties and types. The traditional variety identification methods are time-consuming and labor-consuming, posing grand challenges to apricot resource management. Tool development in this regard will help researchers quickly identify variety information. This study photographed apricot fruits outdoors and indoors and constructed a dataset that can precisely classify the fruits using a U-net model (F-score: 99%), which helps to obtain the fruit's size, shape, and color features. Meanwhile, a variety search engine was constructed, which can search and identify variety from the database according to the above features. Besides, a mobile and web application (ApricotView) was developed, and the construction mode can be also applied to other varieties of fruit trees. Additionally, we have collected four difficult-to-identify seed datasets and used the VGG16 model for training, with an accuracy of 97%, which provided an important basis for ApricotView. To address the difficulties in data collection bottlenecking apricot phenomics research, we developed the first apricot database platform of its kind (ApricotDIAP, http://apricotdiap.com/) to accumulate, manage, and publicize scientific data of apricot.

Liver regeneration following injury aids the restoration of liver mass and the recovery of liver function. In the present study we investigated the contribution of megakaryocytic leukemia 1 (MKL1), a transcriptional modulator, to liver regeneration. We report that both MKL1 expression and its nuclear translocation correlated with hepatocyte proliferation in cell and animal models of liver regeneration and in liver failure patients. Mice with MKL1 deletion exhibited defective regenerative response in the liver. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that MKL1 interacted with E2F1 to program pro-regenerative transcription. MAPKAPK2 mediated phosphorylation primed MKL1 for its interaction with E2F1. Of interest, phospholipase d2 promoted MKL1 nuclear accumulation and liver regeneration by catalyzing production of phosphatidic acid (PA). PA administration stimulated hepatocyte proliferation and enhanced survival in a MKL1-dependent manner in a pre-clinical model of liver failure. Finally, PA levels was detected to be positively correlated with expression of pro-regenerative genes and inversely correlated with liver injury in liver failure patients. In conclusion, our data reveal a novel mechanism whereby MKL1 contributes to liver regeneration. Screening for small-molecule compounds boosting MKL1 activity may be considered as a reasonable approach to treat acute liver failure.

This paper introduces an extended state observer-based command filtered backstepping control method to improve the tracking accuracy and synchronization performance of multi-motor-driving servo systems under the condition of low-speed nonlinear friction dynamics. Firstly, a novel and effective four-motor synchronization scheme is designed and various groups of synchronization feedback signals are introduced to achieve accurate synchronization performance among motors. Then, the observer is designed to estimate the friction torque. And the controller is developed via command filtered backstepping technique to avoid additional computational complexity, making the control signals suitable for practical application. Finally, the stability of the closed-loop system is analyzed, and the tracking and synchronization performance is verified through designed experiments.

Obesity-induced insulin resistance (IR) can precipitate metabolic disorders such as diabetes. Zeaxanthin, a crucial member of the carotenoid family, has been found to mitigate the damage caused by obesity. However, reports on the effects of zeaxanthin on obesity-induced IR are lacking. Our objective was to examine the metabolic regulatory impacts of zeaxanthin on mice subjected to a high-fat diet (HFD) that triggered IR and to explore their influence on gut microbiota regulation. This study constructed a mouse model of metabolic dysfunction caused by lipid-rich nutritional patterns to investigate physiological and biochemical indices, liver pathway expression, and the intestinal microbiota. The mechanisms by which zeaxanthin improved both IR and glucose metabolic disorders were elucidated. The results demonstrate that zeaxanthin effectively suppressed obesity. The fasting blood glucose, area under curve of oral glucose tolerance test and insulin tolerance test, and homeostatic model assessment–insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) indices in the HFDZEA group decreased by 14.9%, 25.2%, 28.9%, and 29.8%. Additionally, zeaxanthin improved the lipid metabolism and alleviated damage to the liver and pancreas while also activating the PI3K/Akt pathway, regulating hepatic gluconeogenesis and the glycogen metabolism. The number of OTUs in the HFDZEA group increased by 29.04%. Zeaxanthin improved the structure and profile of the gastrointestinal microbiome and enhanced its diversity, increasing probiotics abundance, decreasing pathogen abundance, and thereby ameliorating the dysbiosis of enteric microbial communities in rodents with obesity resulting from excessive fat consumption. The outcomes of our analysis provide a rational basis for advancing zeaxanthin-based nutritional products.

Current research on maize germination suffers from long sampling intervals, and the relationship between the starch structure and the processing properties of flour in maize is still unclear. This study observed the effect of germination on the structure and composition of maize starch and the processing properties of maize flour over a 72 h period using a short interval sampling method. At 36 h, the short-range ordered structure, crystallinity, and enthalpy of starch reached the highest values of 1.02, 34.30%, and 9.90 J/g, respectively. At 72 h, the ratios of rapidly-digested starch (RDS) and slowly-digested starch (SDS) enhanced to 29.37% and 28.97%; the RS content reduced to 35.37%; and the flow properties of the starch were improved. This study enhances the understanding of the effects of germination on the processing properties of maize starch and flour, determines the appropriate application, and recommends the use of germination in the food industry.

Mounting evidence suggests that intraplaque angiogenesis is associated with the progression of atherosclerotic plaques and the development of intraplaque hemorrhage. The specificity of intraplaque immune cell infiltration may be associated with abnormalities in the structure and function of the nascent capillaries. Here, we analyzed expression levels of angiogenesis-associated genes in early and advanced carotid atheromatous plaque tissues as well as in stable and intraplaque hemorrhage plaques. Expression profiles of advanced arterial plaques based on angiogenesis-associated genes were classified into subtypes by performing a consensus clustering analysis. The correlation between the immune microenvironment of plaques and expression of angiogenesis-associated genes was also explored using the single sample gene set enrichment analysis method and the CIBERSORT algorithm. We identified hub angiogenesis-associated genes showing similar expression patterns throughout plaque adverse progression, and constructed a prediction model using the random forest algorithm. Receiver operating curves were constructed to evaluate efficacy in identification of intraplaque hemorrhage in a plaque. Our results suggest that heterogeneity of angiogenesis-related genes may promote the malignant development of plaques and cause plaque rupture. In conclusion, we propose a model based on expression of angiogenesis-related genes to predict the risk of plaque rupture.

The physical properties of shale oil reservoirs under overburden pressure are of great significance for reservoir prediction and evaluation during exploration and development. Based on core, thin section, and SEM observations, as well as test data such as XRD, TOC, and porosity and permeability under pressure conditions, this study systematically analyzes the variation of physical properties of different lithofacies shales in the Jiyang depression and the influence of rock fabric on the physical variation under pressure. The porosity and permeability of shale samples significantly decrease under pressure. According to the phased reduction in porosity and permeability, the pressurization process is divided into three pressure stages: low pressure (15 MPa). The reduction of porosity is fastest in the low-pressure stage and slowest in the medium-pressure stage. The reduction of permeability is fastest in the low-pressure stage and the slowest in the high-pressure stage. The rock fabric has a significant impact on porosity and permeability under pressure conditions. The permeability of laminated shale and bedded shale is higher than that of massive shale under pressure, and the permeability loss rate is lower than that of massive shales. Especially under lower pressure, the difference can be 10–20 times. In addition, the reduction rate of porosity and permeability under pressure is negatively correlated with felsic minerals content, which is positively correlated with carbonate minerals content and clay minerals content. The contribution of clay minerals to the porosity reduction rate is dominant, followed by carbonate minerals. The contribution of carbonate minerals to the permeability reduction rate is dominant, followed by clay minerals. The TOC content has no significant impact on the porosity and permeability of shales under pressure in the study due to the low maturity.

IntroductionPseudorabies (PR) is a multi-animal comorbid disease caused by pseudorabies virus (PRV), which are naturally found in pigs. At the end of 2011, the emergence of PRV variant strains in many provinces in China had caused huge economic losses to pig farms. Rapid detection diagnosis of pigs infected with the PRV variant helps prevent outbreaks of PR. The immunochromatography test strip with colloidal gold nanoparticles is often used in clinical testing due to its low cost and high throughput.MethodsThis study was designed to produce monoclonal antibodies targeting PRV through immunization of mice using the eukaryotic system to express the gE glycoprotein. Subsequently, paired monoclonal antibodies were screened based on their sensitivity and specificity for use in the preparation of test strips.Results and discussionThe strip prepared in this study was highly specific, only PRV was detected, and there was no cross-reactivity with glycoprotein gB, glycoprotein gC, glycoprotein gD, and glycoprotein gE of herpes simplex virus and varicellazoster virus, porcine epidemic diarrhea virus, Senecavirus A, classical swine fever virus, porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus, and porcine parvovirus. Moreover, it demonstrated high sensitivity with a detection limit of 1.336 × 103 copies/μL (the number of viral genome copies per microliter); the coincidence rate with the RT-PCR detection method was 96.4%. The strip developed by our laboratory provides an effective method for monitoring PRV infection and controlling of PR vaccine quality.

ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of different levels of glycerol monolaurate (GML) on laying performance, egg quality, antioxidant capacity, intestinal morphology and immune function in late-phase laying hens. A total of 480 Hy-Line Variety Brown hens (age 54 wk) were randomly assigned to 5 treatments: the control group (basal diet) and 4 GML groups (basal diet supplemented with 100, 200, 300, and 400 mg/kg GML). Each treatment consisted of 8 replicates with 12 hens each and the trial lasted for 8 wk. The results showed that dietary inclusion of GML increased the ADFI in the entire experimental period and the average egg weight in wk 5 to 8 and wk 1 to 8 of the experiment (linear, P < 0.05). Dietary GML addition linearly increased albumen height, Haugh unit and yolk color, and quadratically increased eggshell thickness (P < 0.05). The serum SOD activity, T-AOC and IgG concentrations in the 200 mg/kg GML group, and GSH-Px activity in 200 and 300 mg/kg GML groups were increased, while the MDA concentration in 200 and 300 mg/kg GML groups was decreased than those in the control group (P < 0.05). The jejunal villus height and villus height: crypt depth in 300 mg/kg GML group were higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05). The mRNA expression of TLR4, IL-1β and TNF-α in spleen and jejunum decreased with the increase of dietary GML concentration (linear, P < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary GML supplementation could improve egg quality, antioxidant capacity, intestinal morphology and immune function in late-phase laying hens, and dietary 300 mg/kg GML inclusion is suggested.

Tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) occupies a high proportion of oral squamous cell carcinoma. TSCC features high lymph node metastasis rates and chemotherapy resistance with a poor prognosis. Therefore, an effective therapy strategy is needed to improve patient prognosis. Melatonin (MT) is a natural indole compound shown to have anti-tumor effects in several cancers. This study focused on the role and mechanism of MT in TSCC cells. The results of the study suggest that MT could inhibit cell proliferation in CRL-1623 cells. Western blot analysis showed the down-regulate of cyclin B1 and the up-regulate P21 protein by MT. MT was also shown to down-regulate the expression of Zeb1, Wnt5A/B, and β-catenin protein and up-regulate E-cadherin to inhibit the migration of CRL-1623 cells. MT also promoted the expression of ATF4, ATF6, Bip, BAP31 and CHOP in CRL-1623 cells leading to endoplasmic reticulum stress, and induced autophagy and apoptosis in CRL-1623 cells. Western blots showed that MT could promote the expression of Bax, LC3, and Beclin1 proteins and inhibit the expression of p62. We screened differentially expressed long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in MT-treated cells and found that the expression of MALAT1 and H19 decreased. Moreover, MT inhibited tumor growth in nude mice inoculated with CRL-1623 cells. These results suggest that MT could induce autophagy, promote apoptosis, and provide a potential natural compound for the treatment of TSCC.

Study objectiveTo investigate whether different timings of GnRH-a downregulation affected assisted reproductive outcomes in infertile women with moderate-to-severe intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) accompanied by adenomyosis.DesignA retrospective case series.SettingAn assisted reproductive technology center.PatientsThe study reviewed 123 infertile women with moderate-to-severe IUAs accompanied by adenomyosis undergoing their first frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycles between January 2019 and December 2021.Measurements and main resultsThe majority of patients had moderate IUA (n=116, 94.31%). The average Basal uterine volume was 73.58 ± 36.50 cm3. The mean interval from operation to the first downregulation was 21.07 ± 18.02 days (range, 1–79 days). The mean duration of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) was 16.93 ± 6.29 days. The average endometrial thickness on the day before transfer was 10.83 ± 1.75 mm. A total of 70 women achieved clinical pregnancy (56.91%). Perinatal outcomes included live birth (n=47, 67.14%), early miscarriage (n=18, 25.71%), and late miscarriage (n=5, 7.14%). The time interval between uterine operation and the first downregulation was not a significant variable affecting live birth. Maternal age was the only risk factor associated with live birth (OR:0.89; 95% CI: 0.79–0.99, P=0.041).ConclusionsThe earlier initiation of GnRH-a to suppress adenomyosis prior to endometrial preparation for frozen embryo transfer did not negatively impact repair of the endometrium after resection.

Background Approximately two-thirds of patients with relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma (R/R LBCL) do not respond to or relapse after anti-CD19 chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR T)-cell therapy, leading to poor outcomes. Previous studies have suggested that intensified lymphodepletion and hematological stem cell infusion can promote adoptively transferred T-cell expansion, enhancing antitumor effects. Therefore, we conducted a phase I/II clinical trial in which CNCT19 (an anti-CD19 CAR T-cell) was administered after myeloablative high-dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation (HDT/ASCT) in patients with R/R LBCL.Methods Transplant-eligible patients with LBCL who were refractory to first-line immunochemotherapy or experiencing R/R status after salvage chemotherapy were enrolled. The study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of this combinational therapy. Additionally, frozen peripheral blood mononuclear cell samples from this trial and CNCT19 monotherapy studies for R/R LBCL were used to evaluate the impact of the combination therapy on the in vivo behavior of CNCT19 cells.Results A total of 25 patients with R/R LBCL were enrolled in this study. The overall response and complete response rates were 92.0% and 72.0%, respectively. The 2-year progression-free survival rate was 62.3%, and the overall survival was 68.5% after a median follow-up of 27.0 months. No unexpected toxicities were observed. All cases of cytokine release syndrome were of low grade. Two cases (8%) experienced grade 3 or higher CAR T-cell-related encephalopathy syndrome. The comparison of CNCT19 in vivo behavior showed that patients in the combinational therapy group exhibited enhanced in vivo expansion of CNCT19 cells and reduced long-term exhaustion formation, as opposed to those receiving CNCT19 monotherapy.Conclusions The combinational therapy of HDT/ASCT and CNCT19 demonstrates impressive efficacy, improved CNCT19 behavior, and a favorable safety profile.Trial registration numbers ChiCTR1900025419 and NCT04690192.

Based on rock mineral and geochemical analysis, microscopic observation, physical property measurement, and thin laminae separation test, etc., the characteristics of typical laminae of the Paleogene Shahejie Formation carbonate-rich shale in the Jiyang Depression were analyzed, and the organic matter abundance, reservoir properties, and oil-bearing properties of different laminae were compared. Typical shale reservoir-flow structures were classified, and the mobility of oil in different types of shale reservoir-flow structure was compared. The results show that the repeated superposition of mud laminae and calcite laminae are the main layer structure of carbonate-rich shales. The calcite laminae are divided into micritic calcite laminae, sparry calcite laminae and fibrous calcite vein. The mud-rich laminae are the main contributor to the organic matter abundance and porosity of shale, with the best hydrocarbon generation potential, reservoir capacity, and oil-bearing property. The micritic calcite laminae also have relatively good hydrocarbon generation potential, reservoir capacity and oil-bearing property. The sparry calcite laminae and fibrous calcite vein have good permeability and conductivity. Four types of shale reservoir-flow structure are developed in the carbonate-rich shale, and the mobility of oil in each type of reservoir-flow structure is in descending order: sparry calcite laminae enriched shale reservoir-flow structure, mixed calcite laminae enriched shale reservoir-flow structure, fibrous calcite vein enriched shale reservoir-flow structure, and micritic calcite laminae enriched shale reservoir-flow structure. The exploration targets of carbonate-rich shale in the Jiyang Depression Shahejie Formation are different in terms of reservoir-flow structure at different thermal evolution stages.

Abstract Background Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a prevalent malignancy worldwide, with increasing incidence and mortality rates. Although treatment options have improved, CRC remains a leading cause of death due to metastasis. Early intervention can significantly improve patient outcomes, making it crucial to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying CRC metastasis. In this study, we performed bioinformatics analysis to identify potential genes associated with CRC metastasis. Methods We downloaded and integrated gene expression datasets (GSE89393, GSE100243, and GSE144259) from GEO database. Differential expression analysis was conducted, followed by Gene Ontology (GO) functional enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis. The hub gene SERPINA3 was selected for further in vitro functional studies. Additionally, the role of miR-137-3p/miR-296-5p/ Serpin family A member 3 (SERPINA3) in CRC cell function was investigated using in vitro assays. Results Analysis of the gene expression datasets revealed differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with CRC metastasis. GO analysis showed enrichment in biological processes such as blood coagulation regulation and wound healing. Cellular component analysis highlighted extracellular matrix components and secretory granules. Molecular function analysis identified activities such as serine-type endopeptidase inhibition and lipoprotein receptor binding. KEGG analysis revealed involvement in pathways related to complement and coagulation cascades, cholesterol metabolism, and immune responses. The common DEGs among the datasets were further investigated. We identified SERPINA3 as a hub gene associated with CRC metastasis. SERPINA3 exerted enhanced effects on migration, proliferation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and inhibitory effects on caspase-3/-9 activities in HT29 and SW620 cells. MiR-137-3p overexpression increased activities of caspase-3/-9, decreased migration and proliferation, and also repressed EMT in HT29 cells, which were obviously attenuated by SERPINA3 enforced overexpression. Consistently, SERPINA3 enforced overexpression also largely reversed miR-296-5p mimics-induced increased in activities of caspase-3/-9, decrease in migration, proliferation and EMT in HT29 cells. Conclusion Through bioinformatics analysis, we identified potential genes associated with CRC metastasis. The functional studies focusing on SERPINA3/miR-137-3p/miR-296-5p further consolidated its role in regulating CRC progression. Our findings provide insights into novel mechanisms underlying CRC metastasis and might contribute to the development of effective treatment strategies. However, the role of SERPINA3/miR-137-3p/miR-296-5p signaling in CRC still requires further investigation.

ObjectiveTo examine the prevalence and influencing factors of spirometry examination among residents aged ≥ 40 years in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region (Inner Mongolia) for promoting prevention and control of chronic respiratory diseases. MethodsUsing multistage stratified cluster and probability proportionate to size sampling and a questionnaire adopted by Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, we conducted a face-to-face survey among 2 400 permanent residents aged ≥ 40 years in four prefectures/banners with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease surveillance project in Inner Mongolia during May – December 2019. The estimated prevalence of spirometry examination in the participants was calculated based on complex sampling weight design; the impact factors of spirometry examination were explored with unconditional multivariate logistic regression analysis. ResultsOf the 2302 participants with eligible responses, 142 reported ever having pulmonary function test. The complicated weighted proportion of spirometry examination was 5.1% for the population surveyed. The results of logistic regression analysis showed that the residents with the education of junior high school and above, being enterprise clerks or professional and technical personnel in enterprises, being workers not classified or being unemployed, being aware of the names of respiratory diseases, ever suffering from respiratory symptoms, and with the history of respiratory illness were more likely to have spirometry examination; while the female residents were less likely to have the examination. ConclusionThe proportion of ever having spirometry examination was relatively low and mainly influenced by gender, education, occupation, the awareness of respiratory disease, respiratory symptoms, and the history of chronic respiratory disease among residents 40 years old and older in Inner Mongolia.

In order to explore the effect of exogenous glucose (Glc) treatment on the postharvest storage quality and antioxidant metabolism of apricot fruit, ‘Saimaiti’ apricot fruit from Xinjiang were stored for up to 49 days at (0 ± 1) ℃ and a relative humidity of 90%–95% after vacuum osmosis treatment (holding for 2 min at 0.05 MPa followed by soaking for 5 min at atmospheric pressure) with different concentrations (100, 200 and 400 mmol/L) of Glc or distilled water as a control. Fruit quality and antioxidant metabolism-related indexes were determined during the storage period. The results showed that exogenous Glc treatment could effectively maintain the firmness, soluble solids content (SSC) and titratable acid (TA)levels, and significantly reduce the respiration intensity of apricot fruit, with the most pronounced effect being observed at 200 mmol/L Glc. In addition, exogenous Glc treatment increased the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and glutathione reductase (GR) in apricot fruit compared with the control group, and effectively maintained the contents of ascorbic acid (ASA) and glutathione (GSH), thus delaying the accumulation of superoxide anion radical, hydrogen peroxide, malondialdehyde (MDA) and the increase of cell membrane permeability. These findings indicate that exogenous Glc treatment could maintain the storage quality of apricot fruit by regulating its antioxidant metabolism during storage, which will provide a theoretical basis and technical reference for the application of Glc in postharvest storage and preservation of fruits and vegetables.