Search

Abstract Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) has an extremely poor prognosis. Recent studies have suggested that mitophagy-related genes (MRGs) are closely correlated with the development and occurrence of cancer, but the role they play in oral cancer has not yet been explained.We conducted a comprehensive analysis of integrated single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) data retrieved from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Multiple methods were combined to provide a comprehensive understanding of the genetic expression patterns and biology of OSCC, such as analysis of pseudotime series, CellChat cell communication, immune infiltration, Gene Ontology (GO), LASSO Cox regression, gene set variation analysis (GSVA), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), Tumor Mutation Burden (TMB) and drug sensitivity assessments. The findings of this study demonstrated significantly greater activity of MRGs in NK cells than in other cells in OSCC. A reliable prognostic model was developed using 12 candidate genes strongly associated with mitochondrial autophagy. T stage, N stage and risk score were revealed as independent prognostic factors. Distinctively enriched pathways and immune cells were observed in different risk groups. Notably, low-risk patients were more responsive to chemotherapy. In addition, a nomogram model with excellent predictive ability was established by combining the risk scores and clinical features. The activity of MRGs suggest the potential for the development of new targeted therapies. The construction of a robust prognostic model also provides reference value for individualized prediction and clinical decision-making in patients with OSCC.

Abstract Influenza remains one of the most serious infectious diseases. Gallic acid is one of the most common and representative phenolic acids found in various plants. This is an interesting subject to explore how gallic acid could inhibit H1N1 influenza virus infection by reducing the production of virulent proteins and interrupting autophagy machinery for influenza virus replication on the host cell. Cellular viability was assessed by XTT assay. The inhibitory effects on the H1N1 influenza virus were assessed by hemagglutination assay, plaque assay, and qRT‐PCR. Western blot analysis was used for detecting protein levels of M1, M2, NP, LC3B, and beclin‐1. Autophagy activity was demonstrated by acridine orange staining assay. The result demonstrated that there was no cytotoxic effect of gallic acid on A549 cells, and gallic acid could restore the cellular viability of H1N1 influenza virus‐infected A549 cells within the experimental concentration treatment. Moreover, gallic acid could effectively restrain viral activity of the H1N1 influenza virus. After the treatment of gallic acid, the production of virulent H1N1 influenza virus proteins, that is, M1, M2, and NP protein were reduced. As for autophagic mechanism, both of the LC3B II conversion and the level ratio of LC3B II to LC3B I were notably decreased. The acridine orange staining assay also revealed decreased accumulation of autophagosomes in H1N1 influenza virus‐infected cells. In conclusion, gallic acid suppresses H1N1 influenza viral infectivity through restoration of autophagy pathway and inhibition of virulent M1, M2, and NP protein production.

This paper seeks to contribute to the emergent literature on Artificial Intelligence (AI) literacy in higher education. Specifically, this convergent, mixed methods case study explores the impact of employing Generative AI (GenAI) tools and cyber-social teaching methods on the development of higher education students’ AI literacy. Three 8-week courses on advanced digital technologies for education in a graduate program in the College of Education at a mid-western US university served as the study sites. Data were based on 37 participants’ experiences with two different types of GenAI tools–a GenAI reviewer and GenAI image generator platforms. The application of the GenAI review tool relied on precision fine-tuning and transparency in AI-human interactions, while the AI image generation tools facilitated the participants’ reflection on their learning experiences and AI's role in education. Students’ interaction with both tools was designed to foster their learning regarding GenAI's strengths and limitations, and their responsible application in educational contexts. The findings revealed that the participants appeared to feel more comfortable using GenAI tools after their course experiences. The results also point to the students’ enhanced ability to understand and critically assess the value of AI applications in education. This study contributes to existing work on AI in higher education by introducing a novel pedagogical approach for AI literacy development showcasing the synergy between humans and artificial intelligence.

In recent years, the automatic machine for microbial identification and antibiotic susceptibility tests has been introduced into the microbiology laboratory of our hospital, but there are still many steps that need manual operation. The purpose of this study was to establish an auto-verification system for bacterial naming to improve the turnaround time (TAT) and reduce the burden on clinical laboratory technologists. After the basic interpretation of the gram staining results of microorganisms, the appearance of strain growth, etc., the 9 rules were formulated by the laboratory technologists specialized in microbiology for auto-verification of bacterial naming. The results showed that among 70,044 reports, the average pass rate of auto-verification was 68.2%, and the reason for the failure of auto-verification was further evaluated. It was found that the main causes reason the inconsistency between identification results and strain appearance rationality, the normal flora in the respiratory tract and urine that was identified, the identification limitation of the mass spectrometer, and so on. The average TAT for the preliminary report of bacterial naming was 35.2 h before, which was reduced to 31.9 h after auto-verification. In summary, after auto-verification, the laboratory could replace nearly 2/3 of manual verification and issuance of reports, reducing the daily workload of medical laboratory technologists by about 2 h. Moreover, the TAT on the preliminary identification report was reduced by 3.3 h on average, which could provide treatment evidence for clinicians in advance.

Organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs) are emerging environmental pollutants that can be detected in water, dust, and biological organisms. Certain OPFRs can disrupt lipid metabolism in animal models and cell lines. However, the effects of OPFRs on human lipid metabolism remain unclear. We included 1,580 participants (≥20 years) from the 2013–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to explore the relationship between OPFR exposure and lipid metabolism biomarkers. After adjusting for confounding factors, results showed that one-unit increases in the log levels of diphenyl phosphate (DPhP) (regression coefficient = −5.755; S.E. = 2.289; p = 0.023) and log bis-(1-chloro-2-propyl) phosphate (BCPP) (regression coefficient = −4.637; S.E. = 2.019; p = 0.036) were negatively associated with the levels of total cholesterol (TC) in all participants. One-unit increases in the levels of DPhP (regression coefficient = −2.292; S.E. = 0.802; p = 0.012), log bis (1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (BDCPP) (regression coefficient = −2.046; S.E. = 0.825; p = 0.026), and log bis-2-chloroethyl phosphate (BCEP) (regression coefficient = −2.604; S.E. = 0.704; p = 0.002) were negatively associated with the levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). With increasing quartiles of urine BDCPP levels, the mean TC levels significantly decreased in all participants (p value for trend = 0.028), and quartile increases in the levels of DPhP (p value for trend = 0.01), BDCPP (p value for trend = 0.001), and BCEP (p value for trend

Objective. We aimed to examine the benefits of catheter ablation on left heart structure and function in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) accompanied by heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), in comparison with the benefits in patients with AF accompanied by HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) or patients with no HF. Methods. A total of 399 patients with nonvalvular persistent AF who underwent catheter ablation from 2015 to 2021 were retrospectively included sixty-seven patients with recurrence of AF within 1 year were excluded, as well as 53 patients who failed to be followed up at (12 ± 1) months after the procedure. Finally, 279 patients who fulfilled the criteria were included and divided into these groups: the HFpEF group (left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥50% and N-Terminal Pro-Brain Natriuretic Peptide (NT-proBNP) ≥125 pg/ml or E/e′ ≥15, n = 116), HFrEF group (LVEF

Background: The goal of this study was to compare the procedural safety and long-term outcome associated with a combined catheter ablation and left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) procedure utilizing intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) guidance versus transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) guidance. The study focuses on implementing LAmbre and Watchman devices in patients diagnosed with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods: A total of 363 patients diagnosed with nonvalvular AF and who underwent a combined procedure were prospectively enrolled between November 2017 and May 2022. Following 1:1 propensity score matching, the TEE group (n = 132) and ICE group (n = 132) were systematically compared in terms of the combined procedure, imaging parameters, events related to the procedure, and subsequent outcomes during follow-up, including mortality, stroke, bleeding, device-related thrombus (DRT), and peri-device leaks (PDLs). Results: The ICE group exhibited a significant reduction in total procedural duration (153.71 ± 31.71 vs. 174.74 ± 18.79 min), fluoroscopy radiation dosage (207.24 ± 108.39 vs. 268.61 ± 122.88 mGy), left atrial appendage occlusion procedure time (34.69 ± 10.91 vs. 51.46 ± 15.84 min), and contrast agent exposure (108.71 ± 37.59 vs. 158.41 ± 45.00 mL) compared to the TEE group. Angiography and ICE demonstrated a substantial correlation between the left atrial appendage (LAA) orifice and landing zone/LAA ostium (Pearson’s correlation coefficient r = 0.808 and 0.536/0.697, two-tailed p < 0.001). No occurrences of device-related embolism, thromboembolism, significant bleeding, or unexpected fatalities were observed in either group. Comparable rates of all-cause death (0.76% vs. 0.76%), stroke or transient ischemic attack (2.27% vs. 1.52%), severe bleeding (1.52% vs. 0.76%), PDL (23.81% vs. 24.62%), and DRT (1.52% vs. 1.52%) were noted after an average follow-up of 18.46 ± 7.70 months in both groups, with no discernible differences. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified a correlation between LAA velocity and the risk of PDL. Conclusions: The effectiveness and safety of ICE-guided combined treatment were demonstrated to be comparable to TEE guidance, accompanied by the additional advantages of decreased procedure time and fluoroscopy radiation exposure. Clinical Trial Registration: NCT04391504, https://register.clinicaltrials.gov.

Abstract Purpose In recent years, considerable research has been conducted on the use of plant growth regulators (PGRs) to improve crop yields. Large amounts of PGRs are applied to regulate crop growth. However, few studies have assessed the impact of PGRs, which leave soil residues, on soil microorganisms, especially rhizobia. Methods In this study, the influence of inoculation of soybean roots with Sinorhizobium fredii and Bradyrhizobium japonicum exposed to gibberellin A3 (GA3) and mepiquat chloride (MC) on nodule number, nitrogenase activity, and a symbiotic nitrogen fixation gene (fixA) expression was studied. The nitrate content, free amino acids, and nitrate reductase activity of the roots, and seed yield and quality of soybean were measured. Result Nodulation was promoted to some extent, whereas nitrogenase activity and fixA expression were inhibited to some extent by treatment with GA3; however, these effects were reversed by treatment with MC. In a pot experiment to study phenotypic characteristics, rhizobia treatment in combination with GA3 or MC significantly improved soybean yield and seed nitrogen content, and increased the root nitrate content, free amino acid content, and nitrate reductase activity. Conclusion The results indicated that PGRs, which leave soil residues, have significant positive effects on the growth and activity of soybean and rhizobia.

Abstract Cases of multiple ectopic meningiomas in the lung coexisting with pulmonary malignancies are extremely rare in the clinic. On imaging, it is difficult to distinguish multiple ectopic meningiomas from lung cancer, which puts forward higher requirements for treatment. A 65‐year‐old female patient was admitted to our department for multiple nodules in both lungs. The patient underwent thoracoscopic wedge resection and segmental resection. Postoperative pathological examination found lung meningioma, atypical adenomatoid hyperplasia (AAH), carcinoma in situ (AIS), invasive adenocarcinoma, and other pathological types. In this case, pulmonary meningioma, AAH, AIS, and invasive adenocarcinoma of various pulmonary nodules were observed. This case, which has not been reported before, is unique in that it has multiple pathologic types in one organ. This puts forward higher requirements for clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Abstract Background Continuing education (CE) is essential for health professionals to improve competence in clinical practice, yet many medical technologists still experience barriers to learning in complex clinical settings. To better manage CE and address medical technologists’ learning needs, we developed a learner-centred electronic book (e-book) to promote self-directed learning for medical technologists. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted to explore the acceptability and learning impacts of the e-book as CE material for medical technologists in two medical centres in Taiwan. We designed the learner-centred context in the e-book based on medical technologists’ practice requirements and learning needs. Moreover, we adopted The New World Kirkpatrick Model with four levels (reactions, learning, behaviours and results) to evaluate the e-book’s learning impacts on medical technologists. A total of 280 medical technologists were invited to complete a questionnaire and a post-test, providing learning patterns as well as their satisfaction with the e-book and their learning outcomes after using it. Results Most readers had positive learning experiences and better learning outcomes, including knowledge acquisition and behavioural change, after reading the e-book. The e-book became a new CE activity and reached medical technologists in various types of laboratories. Conclusions The low-cost and learner-centred e-book effectively overcame CE learning barriers for medical technologists. The interactivity and flexibility of e-learning particularly helped learners to engage in clinical scenarios in laboratory medicine. This study could pave the way for medical educators to build a high-quality e-learning model in CE.

Abstract Objective The present study aimed to investigate whether different preoperative left atrial appendage emptying speeds (LAAEVs) have an effect on left atrial function in patients with sinus arrhythmia after left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) combined with catheter ablation (CA). Methods A total of 163 patients with persistent non-valvular atrial fibrillation who received combined LAAC+CA surgery were included in the present study. Regular follow-up was conducted for 12 months, and patients with complete data and successful sinus rhythm recovery were selected as the study subjects (n = 82). The patients were divided into two groups: the LAAEV

Objective: The present study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence and risk factors for toxoplasmosis among pregnant women in southern Taiwan and to determine the clinical benefits of screening for the same. Materials and methods: The current study included 458 pregnant women who received prenatal care from the first trimester at the Kaohsiung and Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospitals during the time period from 2014 to 2015. Serological tests performed to detect the presence of Toxoplasma IgG and IgM antibodies. Amniocentesis was scheduled and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was employed to detect Toxoplasma DNA. Moreover, the maternal characteristics and risk factors, perinatal outcomes related to the seropositivity for Toxoplasma infection were analyzed. Results: Among the pregnant patients included in the current study, 39/458 (8.5%) were IgG+ and 2/458 (0.6%) were IgM+. The present study analyzed the maternal characteristics and risk factors, perinatal outcome pertaining to the IgG seropositive group by means of the multiple logistic regression analysis revealed a female predominance (10.8%), compared to the males (6.4%), (adjusted OR = 0.48 (95%, 0.24–0.98), P = 0.043∗). The number cases with gestational age above 37 weeks at the time of delivery was significantly lower, compared to the cases below 37 weeks (adjusted OR = 0.32 (0.12–0.94), P = 0.038∗). Among one case with low avidity cannot exclude recent infection, the amniocentesis did not show any evidence of vertical transmission. Conclusion: The scenario may not warrant general screening and the results will not influence the clinical decisions. Although the present study failed to identify the maternal risk factors related to Toxoplasma infection, the results imply that health education is essential, owing to the slightly higher rate of preterm delivery in the IgG seropositive group.

BackgroundOrganophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs) are widely distributed in the environment and their metabolites are observed in urine, but little is known regarding OPFRs in a broad-spectrum young population from newborns to those aged 18 years.ObjectivesInvestigate urinary levels of OPFRs and OPFR metabolites in Taiwanese infants, young children, schoolchildren, and adolescents within the general population.MethodsDifferent age groups of subjects (n=136) were recruited from southern Taiwan to detect 10 OPFR metabolites in urine samples. Associations between urinary OPFRs and their corresponding metabolites and potential health status were also examined.ResultsThe mean level of urinary Σ10 OPFR in this broad-spectrum young population is 2.25 μg/L (standard deviation (SD) of 1.91 μg/L). Σ10 OPFR metabolites in urine are 3.25 ± 2.84, 3.06 ± 2.21, 1.75 ± 1.10, and 2.32 ± 2.29 μg/L in the age groups comprising of newborns, 1-5 year-olds, 6-10 year-olds, and 11-18 year-olds, respectively, and borderline significant differences were found in the different age groups (p=0.125). The OPFR metabolites of TCEP, BCEP, DPHP, TBEP, DBEP, and BDCPP predominate in urine and comprise more than 90% of the total. TBEP was highly correlated with DBEP in this population (r=0.845, p

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) stands as a prevalent neurocutaneous disorder. Approximately a quarter of NF1 patients experience the development of plexiform neurofibromas, potentially progressing into malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST). FT895, an HDAC11 inhibitor, exhibits potent anti-tumor effects on MPNST cells and enhances the cytotoxicity of cordycepin against MPNST. The study aims to investigate the molecular mechanism underlying FT895’s efficacy against MPNST cells. Initially, our study unveiled that FT895 disrupts mitochondrial biogenesis and function. Post-FT895 treatment, reactive oxygen species (ROS) in MPNST notably increased, while mitochondrial DNA copy numbers decreased significantly. Seahorse analysis indicated a considerable decrease in basal, maximal, and ATP-production-coupled respiration following FT895 treatment. Immunostaining highlighted FT895’s role in promoting mitochondrial aggregation without triggering mitophagy, possibly due to reduced levels of XBP1, Parkin, and PINK1 proteins. Moreover, the study using CHIP-qPCR analysis revealed a significant reduction in the copy numbers of promoters of the MPV17L2, POLG, TFAM, PINK1, and Parkin genes. The RNA-seq analysis underscored the prominent role of the HIF-1α signaling pathway post-FT895 treatment, aligning with the observed impairment in mitochondrial respiration. In summary, the study pioneers the revelation that FT895 induces mitochondrial respiratory damage in MPNST cells.

AIM:To report our precaution practices for ocular surgeries under local anesthesia during COVID-19 outbreak and evaluate the respiration situation among the patients with medical face masks under ocular surgeries.METHODS:Sixty Chinese patients needed eye surgery treatment were recruited and given medical face masks as one of the COVID-19 precaution practices during eye surgery with local anesthesia. Oxygen supplementation and negative pressure drainage were applied to relieve the potential respiratory discomfort, and the respiratory comfort score was evaluated.RESULTS:Patients with medical face masks experienced mild to moderate respiratory discomfort with an overall mean score of 2.34±0.73. Supplementation of oxygen together with negative pressure drainage relieved this discomfort(overall mean score of 0.15±0.75; P

Microglial abnormalities may contribute to neurodevelopmental disorders. PTEN is implicated as a susceptibility gene for autism spectrum disorders and its germline ablation in mice causes behavioral abnormalities. Here we find postnatal PTEN deletion in microglia causes deficits in sociability and novel object recognition test. Mutant mice harbor markedly more activated microglia that manifest enhanced phagocytosis. Interestingly, two-week postponement of microglia PTEN ablation leads to no social interaction defects, even though mutant microglia remain abnormal in adult animals. Disturbed neurodevelopment caused by early PTEN deletion in microglia is characterized by insufficient VGLUT1 protein in synaptosomes, likely a consequence of enhanced removal by microglia. In correlation, in vitro acute slice recordings demonstrate weakened synaptic inputs to layer 5 pyramidal neurons in the developing cortex. Therefore, microglial PTEN safeguards integrity of neural substrates underlying sociability in a developmentally determined manner.

Abstract. Background:. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the fourth cause of cancer death in China. We aimed to provide national and subnational estimates and changes of CRC premature mortality burden during 2005–2020. Methods:. Data from multi-source on the basis of the national surveillance mortality system were used to estimate mortality and years of life lost (YLL) of CRC in the Chinese population during 2005–2020. Estimates were generated and compared for 31 provincial-level administrative divisions in China. Results:. Estimated CRC deaths increased from 111.41 thousand in 2005 to 178.02 thousand in 2020; age-standardized mortality rate decreased from 10.01 per 100,000 in 2005 to 9.68 per 100,000 in 2020. Substantial reduction in CRC premature mortality burden, as measured by age-standardized YLL rate, was observed with a reduction of 10.20% nationwide. Marked differences were observed in the geographical patterns of provincial units, and they appeared to be obvious in areas with higher economic development. Population aging was the dominant driver which contributed to the increase in CRC deaths, followed by population growth and age-specific mortality change. Conclusions:. Substantial discrepancies were observed in the premature mortality burden of CRC across China. Targeted considerations were needed to promote a healthy lifestyle, expand cost-effective CRC early screening and diagnosis, and improve medical treatment to reduce CRC mortality among high-risk populations and regions with inadequate healthcare resources.

Tris(2-butoxyethyl) phosphate (TBEP) is one of the most abundant organophosphate flame retardants in the environment. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of TBEP exposure during adolescence on male reproductive function in adult rats. Male Sprague–Dawley rats were treated with 20 and 200 mg/kg body weight of TBEP or corn oil from postnatal day (PND) 42 to PND 105. A significant increase in the proportion of sperm with abnormal morphology (flattened head and bent tail) and superoxide anion (O2-.) production in the sperm of the 200 mg/kg treated group was observed (p

The current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused significant challenges throughout the world and a rapid, reliable diagnostic test is in high demand. Real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was one of the most quickly established methods of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) detection and is considered to be the gold standard. In this report, we share our experience of using two different testing platforms: the cobas 6800 SARS-CoV-2 test, an automated system that was recently granted Emergency Use Authorization by the FDA, and a laboratory-developed test based on the protocol from the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC). There was an overall 96.2% agreement between the two platforms. However, the positive agreement between the two platforms was only 80.0%. We found 3 instances of discordance between the two systems and this emphasized the need for timely diagnosis with a reliable testing platform.

(1) Background: This study aimed to investigate the effect of an additional catheter ablation (CA) procedure on the risk of post-procedure adverse events during CA combined with left atrial appendage closure (LAAC). (2) Methods: From July 2017 to February 2022, data from 361 patients with atrial fibrillation who underwent LAAC at our center were analyzed retrospectively. The adverse events were compared between CA + LAAC and LAAC-only groups. (3) Results: The incidence of device-related thrombus (DRT) and embolic events was significantly lower in the CA + LAAC group than in the LAAC-only group (p = 0.01 and 0.04, respectively). A logistic regression analysis revealed that the combined procedure served as a protective factor for DRT (OR = 0.09; 95% confidence interval: 0.01–0.89; p = 0.04). Based on a Cox regression analysis, the risk of embolism marginally increased in patients aged ≥65 years (HR = 7.49, 95% CI: 0.85–66.22 p = 0.07), whereas the combined procedure was found to be a protective factor (HR = 0.25, 95% CI: 0.07–0.87 p = 0.03). Further subgroup and interaction analyses revealed similar results. (4) Conclusions: The combined procedure may be associated with a lower rate of post-procedure DRT and embolization without a higher occurrence of other adverse events after LAAC. A risk-score-based prediction model was conducted, showing a good prediction performance.

BackgroundYanshan ginger (Alpinia zerumbet) is a perennial herb used as a medicine and spice, and is beneficial for soil and water conservation in karst areas. Given the widespread utilization of Yanshan ginger in China and continuing expansion of the planting area, disposal of waste materials is problematic. The branches and leaves of Yanshan ginger contain a variety of potent antibacterial compounds, such as volatile oils, phenols, and diterpenoids, which hinder their rapid degradation by microorganisms. In this study, we screened and constructed a composite microbial system to provide a technical reference for production of organic fertilizer from the branches and leaves of Yanshan ginger.MethodsA composite microbial system, "YanShan Jun" (YSJ), was developed by screening for efficient detoxification and degradation of the branches and leaves of Yanshan ginger. High-throughput sequencing technology was used to investigate the stability and diversity of YSJ subcultures. The culture conditions for YSJ were optimized by sequential single-factor experiments and response surface analysis. Yanshan ginger leaves and branches were inoculated with YSJ to study its effects on composting efficiency.ResultsThe microbial composition of YSJ was stable and rich in diversity through continuous subculture. Through response surface analysis, the optimized culture conditions for YSJ were determined as follows: peptone 8.0 g/L, sodium chloride 9.0 g/L, calcium carbonate 5.2 g/L, yeast powder 1.6 g/L, cultivation temperature 56.1°C, and culture duration 6 d. Under these conditions, the degradation rate of Yanshan ginger was 58.32%, which was 14.22% higher than that before optimization. The ability of YSJ to degrade the antibacterial compounds of ginger after optimization was significantly enhanced. Inoculation of Yanshan ginger compost with YSJ increased the fermentation temperature, prolonged the high-temperature period, and reduced the water content and pH of the compost in the early stage.ConclusionsInoculation of plant compost with YSJ bacteria improves the nutritional environment of the compost, promotes the composting reaction, promotes the rapid formation of a strong indigenous microflora, forms a beneficial microecological environment, and increases the composting efficiency. This study provides a theoretical basis for practical application of YSJ for organic fertilizer production from Yanshan ginger.

Background. The combined procedure of left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) and catheter ablation (CA) is a safe and feasible therapy to treat patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the effect of the combined procedure on cardiac function remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the changes in endocrine and mechanical function of the heart following the combined procedure. Methods. This retrospective study included 62 consecutive patients who underwent the combined procedure of AF ablation and WATCHMAN LAAC and 62 sex and age-matched patients who only received AF ablation. During follow-up, patients were examined for brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels to represent endocrine cardiac function. Mechanical cardiac function was assessed during echocardiographic examination by means of the LA ejection fraction, LA strain (Ƹ), and LA strain rate (SR). Results. (1) The BNP levels decreased acutely after the procedure, rose at day 3 postoperation, but trended downwards at 3 months postoperation in both groups. No significant difference was observed between the two groups. (2) LA ejection fraction, LA Ƹ, and SR exhibited a continuous upward trend over a 3-month follow-up in both groups. There was no significant difference in LA ejection fractions, SRe (the parameter of LA conduit function), and SRa (the parameter of LA booster pump function) between the two groups. However, the Ƹ and SRs (the parameters of LA reservoir function) improved in patients treated with CA alone. Conclusions. The combined procedure of LAAC and CA significantly improved the endocrine and mechanical function of the heart. Compared to simple CA, based on CA with LAAC intervention, it does not significantly change LA endocrine function but may lead to a decline in the LA reservoir function.

Objective. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play many important roles in gene regulation and disease pathogenesis. Here, we sought to determine that mitochondrial dynamic related lncRNA (MDRL) modulates NLRP3 inflammasome activation and apoptosis of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and protects arteries against atherosclerosis. Methods. In vivo experiments, we applied LDLR knockout (LDLR-/-) mice fed the high-fat diet to investigate the effects of MDRL on atherosclerosis. In vitro experiments, we applied mouse aortic smooth muscle cells to determine the mechanism of MDRL in abrogating NLRP3 inflammasome and inhibiting cell apoptosis through miR-361/sequentosome 1 (SQSTM1) by TUNEL staining, quantitative RT-PCR, western blot, microribonucleoprotein immunoprecipitation, and luciferase reporter assay. Results. Downregulated MDRL and increased NLRP3 were observed in mouse atherosclerotic plaques, accompanied with the increase of miR-361. The results showed that MDRL overexpression significantly attenuated the burden of atherosclerotic plaque and facilitated plaque stability through inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation and cell apoptosis, and vice versa. Mechanically, MDRL suppressed NLRP3 inflammasome activation and VSMC apoptosis via suppressing miR-361. Furthermore, miR-361 directly bound to the 3’UTR of SQSTM1 and inhibited its translation, subsequently activating NLRP3 inflammasome. Systematic delivery of miR-361 partly counteracted the beneficial effects of MDRL overexpression on atherosclerotic development in LDLR-/- mice. Conclusions. In summary, MDRL alleviates NLRP3 inflammasome activation and apoptosis in VSMCs through miR-361/SQSTM1/NLRP3 pathway during atherogenesis. These data indicate that MDRL and inhibition of miR-361 represent potential therapeutic targets in atherosclerosis-related diseases.

Abstract Background Flipped classroom is known to improve learning efficiency and to develop one’s ability to apply high-level knowledge. To investigate the effect of flipped classroom approach on teaching evidence-based medicine to medical technology students, we conducted a tailor-made six flipped classroom based EBM courses for medical technology students. Methods This study adopted a qusai-experimental design with 62 medical technology interns as the research object. Students in the experimental group attended the flipped classroom course, while students in the control group attended the traditional course. The learning outcomes were evaluated by Fresno test in both groups. Furthermore, to understand student’s perceptions on the flipped classroom approach, students in the experimental group were required to fill in a satisfaction survey and answer some open-ended questions. Results The Fresno test scores of the experimental group were significantly higher than that of the control group. From the results of the satisfaction survey, we know that students were satisfied with this course format. Students claimed that the flipped classroom approach could improve their learning efficiency and the interactions with teacher could help them to think more deeply. Conclusions To conclude, most students showed positive attitudes and views on flipped classroom strategy. Moreover, students’ questions were solved more effectively during class resulting in an improvement of effectiveness of evidence-based medicine trainings.

Aims: Catheter ablation of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) has been shown to be effective and safe. However, recurrence of PAF varies between 10 and 30% for radiofrequency ablation. There have been no reports comparing long-term recurrence rates following radiofrequency ablation, cryoablation, and three-dimensional guided cryoablation plus radiofrequency ablation. The aim of this study was to observe the long-term recurrence rate of PAF when treated by these three catheter ablation methods, and to explore clinical factors that can potentially predict PAF recurrence following catheter ablation.Methods: There were 238 patients involved in this study, including 106 radiofrequency (RF) ablation cases (RF group), 66 cryoablation cases (Freeze group), and 66 cases treated by three-dimensional guided cryoablation combined with radiofrequency ablation (Freeze-plus-RF group). All patients underwent standardized follow-up. The recurrence rate of atrial fibrillation (AF) in the three groups was calculated. Predictive factors for the recurrence of AF were also investigated.Results: At 48 months (the median follow-up period), the sinus rhythm maintenance rate was 77.4% in the RF group, 72.7% in the Freeze group, and 81.8% in the Freeze-plus-RF group. The maintenance rate of sinus rhythm was highest in the Freeze-plus-RF group, but differences among the three groups were not statistically significant. Further analysis found that the preoperative left atrial appendage emptying velocity (LAAEV) (recurrence vs. no recurrence, 56.58 ± 18.37 vs. 65.59 ± 18.83, respectively, p = 0.003), left atrial (LA) anteroposterior dimension (recurrence vs. no recurrence, 36.56 ± 4.65 vs. 35.00 ± 4.37, respectively; p = 0.028), and LA vertical dimension (recurrence vs. no recurrence, 56.31 ± 6.96 vs. 53.72 ± 6.52, respectively; p = 0.035) were related to postoperative recurrence. Multiple Cox regression analysis showed that only LAAEV was predictive of postoperative recurrence of PAF (hazard ratio: 0.979; 95% confidence interval: 0.961–0.997).Conclusion: Our study found that there was no statistically significant difference in long-term recurrence rates among the RF, Freeze, and Freeze-plus-RF groups. Preoperative LAAEV is an independent predictor of postoperative recurrence of PAF.

Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), a member of Coronaviridae, causes high mortality in newborn piglets, and has caused significant economic losses in the pig industry. PEDV infection can induce apoptosis, both caspase-dependent and caspase-independent, but the details of apoptosis remain clarified. This study investigated the effect of death receptor DR5 on PEDV infection and its relationship with PEDV-induced apoptosis. We found that DR5 knockdown reduced viral mRNA and protein levels of PEDV, and the viral titer decreased from 104.5 TCID50 to 103.4 TCID50 at 12 hpi. Overexpression of DR5 significantly increased the viral titer. Further studies showed that DR5 facilitates viral replication by regulating caspase-8-dependent apoptosis, and the knockdown of DR5 significantly reduced PEDV-induced apoptosis. Interestingly, we detected a biphasic upregulation expression of DR5 in both Vero cells and piglets in response to PEDV infection. We found that DR5 also facilitates viral entry of PEDV, especially, incubation with DR5 antibody can reduce the PEDV binding to Vero cells. Our study improves the understanding of the mechanism by which PEDV induces apoptosis and provides new insights into the biological function of DR5 in PEDV infection.

Existing API approaches usually independently leverage detection or classification models to distinguish allergic pollens from Whole Slide Images (WSIs). However, palynologists tend to identify pollen grains in a progressive learning manner instead of the above one-stage straightforward way. They generally focus on two pivotal problems during pollen identification. (1) Localization: where are the pollen grains located? (2) Classification: which categories do these pollen grains belong to? To perfectly mimic the manual observation process of the palynologists, we propose a progressive method integrating pollen localization and classification to achieve allergic pollen identification from WSIs. Specifically, data preprocessing is first used to cut WSIs into specific patches and filter out blank background patches. Subsequently, we present the multi-scale detection model to locate coarse-grained pollen regions (targeting at “pollen localization problem”) and the multi-classifiers combination to determine the fine-grained category of allergic pollens (targeting at “pollen classification problem”). Extensive experimental results have demonstrated the feasibility and effectiveness of our proposed method.

Combined ultrasound–microwave techniques and pre-enzymatic treatment (hemicellulase and cellulase) enhance essential oil isolation from Citrus reticulata Blanco (tangerine) leaves (CrBL). Subsequently, synergistic effects of modified amorphous octenyl succinic anhydride starch (OSA-MS), almond oil, and high-energy microfluidics were studied in synergy with ultrasound techniques in the production of CrBL essential oil (CrBL-EO) nanoemulsion (CrBL-EONE). GC–MS was used to study the extraction technique. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis was used with confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) techniques to investigate the nanoemulsion matrices’ physical and chemical properties. The D-limonene nanoemulsion (D-LNE) reached the optimal size of droplets (65.3 ± 1.1 r.nm), polydispersity index (PDI) (0.167 ± 0.015), and ζ-potential (−41.0 ± 0.4 mV). Besides, the CrBL-EONE obtained the optimal size of droplets (86.5 ± 0.5 r.nm), PDI (0.182 ± 0.012), and ζ-potential (−40.4 ± 0.8 mV). All the nanoparticle treatments showed significant values in terms of the creaming index (CI%) and inhibition activity (IA%) in the β-carotene/linoleate system with a low degradation rate (DR). The current study’s findings showed that integrated ultrasound–microwave techniques and pre-enzymatic treatment could enhance the extraction efficiency of the CrBL-EO. In addition, OSA-MS and almond oil can also be employed to produce CrBL-EONE and D-LNE.

Arsenic is an environmental factor associated with epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). Since macrophages play a crucial role in regulating EMT, we studied the effects of arsenic on macrophage polarization. We first determined the arsenic concentrations to be used by cell viability assays in conjunction with previous studies. In our results, arsenic treatment increased the alternatively activated (M2) macrophage markers, including arginase 1 (ARG-1) gene expression, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 16 (CCL16), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and the cluster of differentiation 206 (CD206) surface marker. Arsenic-treated macrophages promoted A549 lung epithelial cell invasion and migration in a cell co-culture model and a 3D gel cell co-culture model, confirming that arsenic treatment promoted EMT in lung epithelial cells. We confirmed that arsenic induced autophagy/mitophagy by microtubule-associated protein 1 light-chain 3-II (LC3 II) and phosphor-Parkin (p-Parkin) protein markers. The autophagy inhibitor chloroquine (CQ) recovered the expression of the inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) gene in arsenic-treated M1 macrophages, which represents a confirmation that arsenic indeed induced the repolarization of classically activated (M1) macrophage to M2 macrophages through the autophagy/mitophagy pathway. Next, we verified that arsenic increased M2 cell markers in mouse blood and lungs. This study suggests that mitophagy is involved in the arsenic-induced M1 macrophage switch to an M2-like phenotype.

Hemodialysis (HD) patients are vulnerable to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and have a high mortality rate. We evaluated the anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike protein antibody (ACOV2S) levels in 385 HD patients before and 4 and 8 weeks after the second dose of vector-based ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine. For study control, week 4 ACOV2S levels after the second vaccination dose were measured in 66 healthcare workers (HCWs). The seroconversion rate of HD patients was 98.96% 4 weeks after the second vaccination. Despite low antibody levels before the second dose (week 0), week 4 ACOV2S levels after the second vaccine dose in HD patients increased prominently and were compatible with those in HCWs (p = 0.814 for HCWs vs. HD patients). The ACOV2S levels in HD patients waned significantly 8 weeks after the second vaccination dose (p < 0.001 at week 8 vs. 4). Older age and immunosuppressant use were negative predictors, while higher C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were positive predictors of ACOV2S waxing after the second vaccine dose in HD patients. Higher CRP levels and platelet counts were independently associated with decreased ACOV2S waning. The ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine is effective and safe for primary vaccination in HD patients and a booster dose is necessary.

The comprehensive knowledge regarding the immune response during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination is limited. The aim of this study was to longitudinally investigate not only the dynamic changes of peripheral lymphocyte subpopulations and cytokine levels but parallel changes of antibody levels against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Blood samples of 20 healthcare workers with two doses of COVID-19 vaccine were prospectively collected. The percentages of lymphocyte subpopulations from peripheral blood and cytokine production in lymphocytes with in vitro stimulation were assessed using eight-color flow cytometry. SARS-CoV-2 spike antibodies (anti-S Abs) and functional neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) were also measured. The relation between pre- and post-vaccination immunity was analyzed. There are 7 men and 13 women with a median age of 44.0 years (range: 25.7–59.5 years). The individuals had an increased percentage of lymphocytes at post-vaccination with statistical significance post first dose (p = 0.031). The levels of transitional cells (p = 0.001), such as plasmablasts (p < 0.001) and plasma cells (p = 0.031), were increased compared with pre-vaccination. Recent thymic emigrants of CD4+ T cells subsets were significantly higher at post-vaccination than those at pre-vaccination (p = 0.029). Intracellular levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interferon-γ, interleukin (IL)-2, IL-21, transforming growth factor-beta and IL-17 produced by CD4+ T, CD8+ T, and natural killer cells were increased. All individual samples showed reactivity to anti-S Abs and the levels of nAbs were elevated after vaccination. The magnitude of adaptive immunity was associated with vaccine types and doses. Alterations of total memory B cells (p < 0.001), non-switched memory B cells (p = 0.016), and memory Treg cells (p < 0.001) were independent predictors for nAb levels. These findings might be helpful in elucidating the immune response of COVID-19 vaccination and in developing new strategies for immunization.

Background: A single procedure combining left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) plus catheter ablation (CA) has been proven to be safe and feasible for treating atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the influence of treatment modality on left atrial (LA) function is not thoroughly explained.Objective: We aimed to investigate the changes of LA function in persistent AF patients undergoing concomitant LAAC and CA.Methods: The study population comprised 65 patients who underwent combined AF ablation and Watchman LAAC (combined therapy group) in our center, and 65 participants of the AF simple ablation group who were matched based on sex, age, CHA2DS2-VASc score and HAS-BLED score using propensity score matching. During the 1-year follow-up period, two-dimensional echocardiography and speckle tracking echocardiography were performed to assess LA reservoir, conduit, and contractile function.Results: The combined therapy was associated with a significant improvement in the LA reservoir function with increased expansion index and strain indices, including strain and strain rate (SR) during ventricular systole. Conduit function with SR during early ventricular diastole was also improved, as was contractile function with active atrial emptying fraction and SR during atrial systole. Similarly, LA reservoir and contractile function indices all improved continuously during follow-up after catheter ablation alone. At 3 months follow-up LA reservoir and conduit function with strain indices had a tendency to improve only in the simple procedure group. At 1-year follow-up there was no significant difference in either LA volumes or strain indices between the two groups.Conclusion: Both the combined therapy group and the simple ablation group demonstrated significant improvement in LA function. Based upon the fact that LA function was improved in both groups it might be concluded that most of the effects appeared to result from ablation, not LAAC; furthermore the additional LAAC procedure did not affect the improvement of LA function after CA.

Background: Platelets play an important role in the pathogenesis of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Patients with ACS have an increased mean platelet volume (MPV) and immature platelet fraction (IPF) resulting in elevation of thrombotic ability. In this study, we evaluated the diagnostic performance of MPV and IPF in identifying suspected ACS patients at emergency department. Moreover, we investigated the correlation between MPV or IPF with initial troponin I (TnI), one of the current ACS biomarkers. Methods: This was a single-center study recruiting suspected ACS patients who had acute chest pain at the emergency department. Whole blood samples were obtained from all participants and MPV and IPF were measured by Sysmex XE-5000 hematology analyzer within 20 min of blood sampling. The diagnostic values of MPV and IPF in identifying ACS were analyzed retrospectively. Result: In this study, 63 in 104 suspected ACS patients were diagnosed as ACS (65.3%). MPV and IPF were higher in ACS patients compared to non-ACS patients (MPV: 10.7 ± 0.80 fL vs 10.0 ± 0.64 fL, p