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Ischemia stroke and epilepsy are two neurological diseases that have significant patient and societal burden, with similar symptoms of neurological deficits. However, the underlying mechanism of their co-morbidity are still unclear. In this study, we performed a combined analysis of six gene expression profiles (GSE58294, GSE22255, GSE143272, GSE88723, GSE163654, and GSE174574) to reveal the common mechanisms of IS and epilepsy. In the mouse datasets, 74 genes were co-upregulated and 7 genes were co-downregulated in the stroke and epilepsy groups. Further analysis revealed that the co-expressed differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were involved in negative regulation of angiogenesis and the MAPK signaling pathway, and this was verified by Gene Set Enrichment Analysis of human datasets and single cell RNA sequence of middle cerebral artery occlusion mice. In addition, combining DEGs of human and mouse, PTGS2, TMCC3, KCNJ2, and GADD45B were identified as cross species conserved hub genes. Meanwhile, molecular docking results revealed that trichostatin A and valproic acid may be potential therapeutic drugs. In conclusion, to our best knowledge, this study conducted the first comorbidity analysis of epilepsy and ischemic stroke to identify the potential common pathogenic mechanisms and drugs. The findings may provide an important reference for the further studies on post-stroke epilepsy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicosis is an occupational lung disease that is common worldwide. In recent years, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has provided daunting challenges to public healthcare systems globally. Although multiple studies have shown a close link between COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases, the inter-relational mechanisms between COVID-19 and silicosis remain unclear. This study aimed to explore the shared molecular mechanisms and drug targets of COVID-19 and silicosis. Gene expression profiling identified four modules that were most closely associated with both diseases. Furthermore, we performed functional analysis and constructed a protein–protein interaction network. Seven hub genes (budding uninhibited by benzimidazoles 1 [BUB1], protein regulator of cytokinesis 1 [PRC1], kinesin family member C1 [KIFC1], ribonucleotide reductase regulatory subunit M2 [RRM2], cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 3 [CDKN3], Cyclin B2 [CCNB2], and minichromosome maintenance complex component 6 [MCM6]) were involved in the interaction between COVID-19 and silicosis. We investigated how diverse microRNAs and transcription factors regulate these seven genes. Subsequently, the correlation between the hub genes and infiltrating immune cells was explored. Further in-depth analyses were performed based on single-cell transcriptomic data from COVID-19, and the expression of hub-shared genes was characterized and located in multiple cell clusters. Finally, molecular docking results reveal small molecular compounds that may improve COVID-19 and silicosis. The current study reveals the common pathogenesis of COVID-19 and silicosis, which may provide a novel reference for further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zero-shot learning (ZSL) aims to predict unseen classes without using samples of these classes in model training. The ZSL has been widely used in many knowledge-based models and applications to predict various parameters, including categories, subjects, and anomalies, in different domains. Nonetheless, most existing ZSL methods require the pre-defined semantics or attributes of particular data environments. Therefore, these methods are difficult to be applied to general data environments, such as ImageNet and other real-world datasets and applications. Recent research has tried to use open knowledge to enhance the ZSL methods to adapt it to an open data environment. However, the performance of these methods is relatively low, namely the accuracy is normally below 10%, which is due to the inadequate semantics that can be used from open knowledge. Moreover, the latest methods suffer from a significant "semantic gap" problem between the generated features of unseen classes and the real features of seen classes. To this end, this paper proposes a multi-view graph representation with a similarity diffusion model, applying the ZSL tasks to general data environments. This model applies a multi-view graph to enhance the semantics fully and proposes an innovative diffusion method to augment the graph representation. In addition, a feature diffusion method is proposed to augment the multi-view graph representation and bridge the semantic gap to realize zero-shot predicting. The results of numerous experiments in general data environments and on benchmark datasets show that the proposed method can achieve new state-of-the-art results in the field of general zero-shot learning. Furthermore, seven ablation studies analyze the effects of the settings and different modules of the proposed method on its performance in detail and prove the effectiveness of each module. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spinal neurocytoma (SN), although frequently reportedly as tumors of the central nervous system (CNS), are a distinct class of tumors, which can achieve a better prognosis following subtotal or gross total tumor resection. Nonetheless, even with the premise of successful treatment after tumor resection, poor prognosis after treatment due to the SN high proliferation index (typically known as atypical SN) have been reported. Over the past two decades, atypical SN was only reported in four pediatric cases, amidst the lingering controversy surrounding its postoperative adjuvant therapy. Thus, herein, we report a unique case of atypical SN with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) amplification mutation in a 12-year-old boy. We, however, also highlighted the significance of radiotherapy and target therapy for patients with SN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract High yield of spiral gold nanowires are grown from Au nanoparticles in solution. The versatile system allows systematic adjustment and thus enables syntheses of complex Au hybrid nanostructures. Abstract Synthesis of asymmetric nanostructures has always been a great challenge. In particular, there are only limited approaches for growing spiral nanowires in solution, and almost all of them require templates. Here, as a step in advancing the synthetic capability at the nanoscale, we report a wet chemistry template-free approach for growing hybrids spiral gold nanowires. The spiral gold nanowires were grown from the surface of colloidal gold nanoparticles, forming hybrid Au nanostructures. As an application of the active surface growth mechanism, the mechanistic understanding enables systematic adjustment of the nanowire morphology. The length and width of the spiral nanowires could be readily adjusted. Furthermore, the number of spiral nanowire on each Au nanoparticle, could be tuned by the pre-hydrolysis of the surface modification reagent. Such versatile system allows creation of complex nanostructures like the octopus-like and spider-like Au hybrids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Linguizhugan decoction (LGZG), a notable prescription in Traditional Chinese Medicine, is a classical formula for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD), inflammatory injury and fluid retention. The present study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effect of LGZG on an amyloid ß (Aß)-induced AD rat model. Sprague-Dawley rats were administered with Aß1-42 to induce AD and inflammatory responses, and subsequently with LGZG (4.8, 2.4 or 1.2 g/kg), donepezil (2 mg/kg) or distilled water for 30 consecutive days. Learning and memory behaviors were evaluated via Morris water maze test. The neuronal impairment of AD rats was observed via hematoxylin-eosin staining. The levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and Aß in the brain tissue were detected with ELISA kits. Protein expression levels of mitogen-activated protein kinase and nuclear factor-κB signalling were measured by western blot analysis. The expression of lipoprotein receptor-related protein-1 (LRP-1) and receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (RAGE) in the brain were detected by western blot analysis, reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry analysis. LGZG was demonstrated to significantly improve learning and memory ability, and ameliorate neuroinflammation in AD rats. LGZG increased the levels of LRP-1 and decreased the levels of RAGE. Furthermore, the present results demonstrated that LGZG treatment significantly inhibited MAPK and NF-κB signalling, and reduced the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and Aß accumulation in AD rats. LGZG exhibited a potential protective effect on Aß1-42-induced AD by regulating Aß transportation, and inhibiting RAGE/MAPK and NF-κB signalling. These results suggest that LGZG may be considered for the treatment of AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co 1− x Mo x Se 2 samples ( x = 0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, 0.2, 0.25) were synthesized using a solvothermal method. The expected compounds were characterized by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Their catalytic activities towards the oxygen reduction reaction were investigated. The molybdenum content had an influence on the performance of Co 1− x Mo x Se 2 , and Co 0.85 Mo 0.15 Se 2 showed the best catalytic activity. At the same time, the testing results revealed that Co 0.85 Mo 0.15 Se 2 featured a direct 4e − reaction pathway. The onset potential (0.760 V), half-wave potential (0.601 V), and cathodic peak potential (0.540 V) in 0.5 M H 2 SO 4 were more positive than for the other samples. In addition, Co 0.85 Mo 0.15 Se 2 displayed much better methanol tolerance and operation stability than commercial Pt/C (20 wt% Pt). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of MoS/CoSe hybrids with different weight ratios of MoS and CoSe were prepared by two different hydrothermal methods. The synthesized MoS/CoSe hybrids were characterized by X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The electrochemical activity and durability of MoS/CoSe hybrids towards oxygen reduction reaction were studied in 0.5 M HSO using rotating disk electrode. The results showed that all of them demonstrated catalytic activity towards oxygen reduction reaction. Furthermore, loading 30% MoS on CoSe by the first method (CoSe-30a) displayed the best electrocatalytic activity. The onset potential (0.741 V vs. RHE) and half-wave potential (0.570 V vs. RHE) were higher than those of loading 20% MoS on CoSe by the second method (CoSe-20b, 0.737 and 0.565 V vs. RHE), CoSe (0.708 and 0.560 V vs. RHE), and MoS (0.698 and 0.429 V vs. RHE). Most important, CoSe-30a showed superior stability and better methanol tolerance than CoSe-20b, CoSe, and MoS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron and nickel doped CoSe 2 were prepared by solvothermal method, and they were proved to be ternary chalcogenides by series of physical characterization. The effects of the iron and nickel contents on the oxygen reduction reaction were investigated by electrochemical measurements, and the highest activities were obtained on Co 0.7 Fe 0.3 Se 2 and Co 0.7 Ni 0.3 Se 2 , respectively. Both Co 0.7 Fe 0.3 Se 2 and Co 0.7 Ni 0.3 Se 2 presented four-electron pathway. Furthermore, Co 0.7 Fe 0.3 Se 2 exhibited more positive cathodic peak potential (0.564 V) and onset potential (0.759 V) than these of Co 0.7 Ni 0.3 Se 2 (0.558 V and 0.741 V). And Co 0.7 Fe 0.3 Se 2 displayed even superior stability and better tolerance to methanol, ethanol and ethylene glycol crossover effects than the commercial Pt/C (20 wt% Pt). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different phases of cobalt sulfides have been fabricated by one-pot hydrothermal method. Comparing all of the prepared materials, and the results revealed that CoS was the most conductive and could accelerate electron transfer. The CoS presented tremella-like and excellent catalytic activities towards hydrogen peroxide and glucose. The sensor based on CoS performed amperometric sensing of hydrogen peroxide in a linear range between 5.00 μM and 14.82 mM. Meanwhile, sensing of glucose with double-linear range, one is between 5.00 μM and 1.10 mM, the other is between 1.20 mM and 10.20 mM. These due to the fact that more and more intermediate species absorb onto electrode surface with increasing the concentration of glucose, which limit the following glucose oxidation. Furthermore, the hydrogen peroxide and glucose sensors based on tremella-like CoS also exhibited excellent selectivity, stability, and reproducibility. Thus, the sensor showed potential utilities in hydrogen peroxide and glucose detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cell-derived exosomes bearing microRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as a potential therapeutic option for cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI). However, their mechanism of action and clinical translation value remain unclear. The present meta-analysis investigated the therapeutic effects of miRNA-modified exosomes used in preclinical animal models of CIRI. The PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases were searched on April 20, 2022, to retrieve studies involving middle cerebral artery occlusion model animals treated with exosomes bearing miRNAs. The primary outcome was infarct volume, and the secondary outcome was neurobehavioral performance. FunRich software was used for bioinformatic analysis of exosomal miRNAs, and statistical analysis was performed using R version 4.1.1 (R Foundation for Statistical Computing). Eleven relevant studies were included in the meta-analysis. miRNA-modified exosomes significantly reduced infarct volume (standardized mean difference [SMD], 4.50 [95% confidence interval, 3.02–5.99]; P < 0.01) and improved neurological score (SMD, 2.80 [95% confidence interval, 1.37–4.23]; P < 0.01). Subgroup analysis revealed that a higher injection frequency of exosomes could better reduce infarct volume. The top 6 biological pathways, expression sites, and transcription factors of related exosomal miRNAs were identified through bioinformatics analysis. An asymmetrical funnel plot and Egger's test (P = 0.10) revealed publication bias. Trim-and-fill analysis identified 5 unpublished studies addressing the primary outcome. miRNA-modified exosomal therapy demonstrated the potential to improve infarct volume and neurobehavioral performance in preclinical animal models of CIRI. Despite the heterogeneity among studies, the results may provide some direction for future clinical research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co-based selenides with different selenium contents were successfully synthesized by a one-pot solvothermal method. The physical properties of the prepared catalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. While their electrocatalytic performances were evaluated by cyclic voltammetry, linear sweep voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and chronoamperometry. The results showed that the Co-Se-75 displayed better electrocatalytic activity towards the oxygen reduction reaction with higher onset potential (0.708 V vs. RHE), reduction current (2.81 mA cm −2 ) and a four-electron oxygen reduction process. Furthermore, the catalyst exhibited better stability, stronger resistance to methanol, ethanol and ethlene glycol than that of the Pt/C (20 wt% Pt) catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Our previous research has revealed that binding of the chemokine CCL25 to the CCR9 provides chemotactic cues guiding leukemic cells to specific tissues and organs. The RhoA-ROCK pathway might be involved in cancer migration. The purpose of this study was to explore the role of the RhoA-ROCK-MLC axis in leukemic cell migration following exposure to CCL25. The results showed that CCL25 could increase the amount of the GTPase RhoA and activate MLC in MOLT4 cells in a time-dependent manner. C3 exoenzyme and Y-27632 could block MOLT4 cell migration and chemotaxis. Thus, the RhoA-ROCK-MLC axis might play an important role in MOLT4 cell metastasis induced by CCL25. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: To evaluate the changes of pelvic floor tissue structure and function between pregnant and non-pregnant women from the view of transperineal pelvic floor ultrasound. Methods: Thirty-eight cases of women with a second singleton pregnancy and thirty-two cases of women with a first singleton pregnancy underwent transperineal pelvic floor ultrasound, and their results were compared with forty-two cases of healthy non-pregnant women. Results: The differences of bladder neck descent (BND), rectal ampulla distance and levator hiatus area (LHA) among the three groups were statistically significant (P< 0.05), and the differences of BND, rectal ampulla distance, LHA between the women with a second singleton pregnancy group and non-pragnent group were statistically significant (P< 0.05). The BND, retrovesical angle at rest (RVA-R) and retrovesical angle underwent Valsalva maneuver (RVA-V) in the group of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) during pregnancy were larger than those in non-SUI group, with significant difference (P< 0.05), especially BND and RVA-V (P = 0.00). Conclusion: Transperineal pelvic floor ultrasound has a high resolution of pelvic floor structure and function changes during pregnancy, and can dynamically evaluate pelvic floor function, providing a theoretical basis for early diagnosis and prevention of female pelvic floor dysfunction (FPFD) in subsequent pregnancies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This is the first assay to detect sarbecoviruses and flu A/B viruses in one tube. • The assay exhibits high sensitivity and specificity with LOD of 4.26–4.52 copies/reaction. • The turnround time of novel quadruplex RT-qPCR assay is 34 min. • The assay has perfect performance on both clinical and environmental samples. • The assay aids in prognose of SARS- or influenza-like cases from wild animals. Here we report an ultrafast quadruplex RT-qPCR assay with robust diagnostic ability to detect and distinguish pan-SARS-CoVs and influenza A/B viruses within 35 min. This quadruplex RT-qPCR assay comprised of one novel RNA-based internal control targeting human β2-microglobulin (B2M) for process accuracy and three newly-designed primers-probe sets targeting the envelope protein (E) of pan-SARS-CoV, matrix protein (MP) of influenza A virus and non-structural (NS) region of influenza B virus. This quadruplex assay exhibited a sensitivity comparable to its singleplex counterparts and a slightly higher to that of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-recommended SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A/B assays. The novel assay showed no false-positive amplifications with other common respiratory viruses, and its 95 % limits of detection for pan-SARS-CoV and influenza A/B virus was 4.26–4.52 copies/reaction. Moreover, the assay was reproducible with less than 1 % coefficient of variation and adaptable testing different clinical and environmental samples. Our ultrafast quadruplex RT-qPCR assay can serve as an attractive tool for effective differentiation of influenza A/B virus and SARS-CoV-2, but more importantly prognose the reemergence/emergence of SARS and novel coronaviruses or influenza viruses from animal spillover. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypothermic liquid storage at 4–5 °C has emerged as a novel approach for preserving boar semen, offering innovative possibilities for semen preservation. However, this method also presents challenges, including cold shock and excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Therefore, reducing oxidative damage induced by low temperatures becomes essential while supplementing appropriate protectants. In this study, we investigated the efficacy of Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) compared to Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and Skim Milk Powder (SMP) in maintaining boar sperm motility and progressive motility using computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA). Among the tested concentrations, 4 g/L of BSA exhibited the best protective effect. Subsequently, we supplemented different concentrations of l -cysteine (LC) and N-acetyl- l -cysteine (NAC) as additives in the presence of BSA as a protectant. Our results demonstrated that 1 mmol/L of LC and 0.5 mmol/L of NAC exhibited superior protection of sperm quality compared to other concentrations. Furthermore, the 1 mmol/L LC and 0.5 mmol/L NAC groups showed significantly improved plasma membrane integrity and acrosome integrity compared to the control group. These groups also exhibited enhanced antioxidant capacity, evidenced by increased mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), ATP production, total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) activity, total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), and GPX-4 levels. Additionally, they demonstrated decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, as well as reduced oxidized glutathione (GSSG) and glutathione reductase (GR) levels. Furthermore, LC and NAC treatment enhanced AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation. However, inhibiting AMPK using compound C did not inhibit the protective effects of LC and NAC on low-temperature preserved boar sperm. These findings suggest that 4 g/L BSA can serve as an effective protectant for hypothermic liquid storage of boar semen. Additionally, LC and NAC supplementation reduces oxidative damage by enhancing antioxidant capacity rather than through AMPK-mediated ATP supplementation. These results contribute to advancing the application of LC and NAC in hypothermic liquid storage of boar semen. • 4 g/L BSA can serve as an effective cryoprotectant for hypothermic liquid storage of boar semen. • LC and NAC supplementation reduces oxidative damage through enhancing antioxidant capacity. • Inhibiting AMPK did not inhibit the protective effects of LC and NAC on low-temperature preserved boar sperm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Addressing the challenge of promoting directional axonal regeneration in a hostile astrocytic scar, which often impedes recovery following spinal cord injury (SCI), remains a daunting task. Cell transplantation is a promising strategy to facilitate nerve restoration in SCI. In this research, a pro‐regeneration system is developed, namely miR‐26a@SPIONs‐OECs, for olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs), a preferred choice for promoting nerve regeneration in SCI patients. These entities show high responsiveness to external magnetic fields (MF), leading to synergistic multimodal cues to enhance nerve regeneration. First, an MF stimulates miR‐26a@SPIONs‐OECs to release extracellular vesicles (EVs) rich in miR‐26a. This encourages axon growth by inhibiting PTEN and GSK‐3β signaling pathways in neurons. Second, miR‐26a@SPIONs‐OECs exhibit a tendency to migrate and orientate along the direction of the MF, thereby potentially facilitating neuronal reconnection through directional neurite elongation. Third, miR‐26a‐enriched EVs from miR‐26a@SPIONs‐OECs can interact with host astrocytes, thereby diminishing inhibitory cues for neurite growth. In a rat model of SCI, the miR‐26a@SPIONs‐OECs system led to significantly improved morphological and motor function recovery. In summary, the miR‐26a@SPIONS‐OECs pro‐regeneration system offers innovative insights into engineering exogenous cells with multiple additional cues, augmenting their efficacy for stimulating and guiding nerve regeneration within a hostile astrocytic scar in SCI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding interactions between topography and glacial erosion is a key to advancing knowledge of mountain landscape evolution and is often hampered by the lack of quantitative data for glacial erosion. Here, we examine spatial variations in glacial erosion in the Qilian Shan using a power law model ( y  =  ax b ) fit to cross profiles of glacial valleys. We further analyze the impacts of glacial dynamics, topography, and lithology on the degree of glacial erosion using qualitative and quantitative methods. Although the distribution of glacial erosion is controlled by the combined effects of glacial dynamics, topography, and lithology, average glacier size or ice flux and mean slope above the equilibrium line altitude are dominant controls. In addition, the topographic data analyzed through a b - FR diagram suggests two opposite types of glacial valley cross-profile development: temperate (maritime) glacier valleys are mainly dominated by overdeepening; while continental glacier valleys are mainly dominated by a widening process, although this varies with lithology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Phototherapy can trigger immunogenic cell death of tumors in situ, whereas it is virtually impossible to eradicate the tumor due to the intrinsic resistance and inefficient anti-tumor immunity. To overcome these limitations, novel bimetallic infinite coordination nanopolymers (TA-Fe/Mn-OVA@MB NPs) were synthesized using model antigen ovalbumin (OVA) as a template to assemble tannic acid (TA) and bi-metal, supplemented with methylene blue (MB) surface absorption. The formulated TA-Fe/Mn-OVA@MB NPs possess excellent photothermal and photodynamic therapy (PTT/PDT) performance, which is adequate to destroy tumor cells by physical and chemical attack. Especially, these TA-Fe/Mn-OVA@MB NPs are capability of promoting the dendritic cells (DCs) maturation and antigen presentation via manganese-mediated cGAS-STING pathway activation, finally activating cytotoxicity T lymphocyte and promoting memory T lymphocyte differentiation in the peripheral lymphoid organs. In conclusion, this research offers a versatile metal-polyphenol nanoplatform to integrate functional metals and therapeutic molecule for topical phototherapy and robust anti-tumor immune activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glacial extent mapping and dating indicate that the local last glacial maximum (LLGM) of the northeastern Tibetan Plateau occurred during mid-Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 3. This is asynchronous with the global last glacial maximum (LGM) that occurred during MIS 2. The causes underlying this asynchronicity are the subject of ongoing debate, and paleoclimatic reconstructions are a key to advancing understanding of the climatic influence on the spatial and temporal patterns of paleoglaciation. We used multiple methods to reconstruct the equilibrium-line altitude (ELA) of the Die Shan paleo-ice cap on the northeastern Tibetan Plateau, and to infer past temperature for ice maximum positions believed to be mid-MIS 3 in age, based on regional correlation. Geomorphic ELA reconstructions combined with an energy and mass balance model yield a paleo-ELA of 4117±31 m asl (786 m lower than present) with temperature depressions of 3.8 to ~4.6°C compared to the present. This is less than the LGM reconstruction of temperature depression inferred from other climatic proxy records on the Tibetan Plateau and suggests that the LLGM glacial advance was a product of lower temperatures and slightly reduced precipitation compared to present, whereas the LGM was a more restricted advance in which much colder conditions were combined with much lower precipitation. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

As the growth of crops often encounters many insect pests and diseases, nanopesticides with high efficacy are desired to sustain the high yield. However, a straightforward and efficient approach to constructing new formulations of nanopesticides with robust environmental tolerance is seriously lacked. In this work, reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) emulsion copolymerization has been successfully utilized to synthesize adhesive plant oil-based emulsions as nanocarriers for nanopesticides, presenting outstanding environmental tolerance and superior bioactivity. It is found that the obtained plant oil-based emulsions have good adhesion properties with the incorporation of two epoxidized Camellia oil monomers, since the amide group in one of the monomers as the hydrogen bonding donor enables the formation of supramolecular network within the copolymers. Owing to the most balanced adhesive and cohesive properties, the emulsion with the best adhesion properties achieves the highest retention capability of pesticide upon rinsing with water. Further, the nanopesticide with the adhesive plant oil-based emulsion as nanocarriers showcases outstanding environmental tolerance and bioactivity. This result can be attributed to the high UV-absorbance ability, outstanding adhesion properties, and good hydrophobicity of nanocarriers. This study underlines the feasibility for the fabrication of superior nanopesticides by harnessing adhesive plant oil-based emulsions as nanocarriers. [Display omitted] • Adhesive plant oil-based emulsions were successfully fabricated. • High retention ability of pesticide was achieved by using adhesive nanocarriers. • Nanopesticides with adhesive nanocarriers show high retention rate. • Nanopesticides with adhesive nanocarriers present good bioactivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Casein kinase 1, alpha 1 (CSNK1A1), is a member of the highly conserved serine/threonine protein kinase family. This study was established to analyze the expression and localization of CSNK1A1 and its function in early embryonic development in mice. Csnk1a1 mRNA and protein are expressed in multiple mouse tissues including the ovary. After ovulation and fertilization, Csnk1a1 mRNA and protein were detected in preimplantation embryos and their expression was highest in two-cell-stage embryos. CSNK1A1 protein was also mainly localized in the cytoplasm of preimplantation embryos. Moreover, knockdown of Csnk1a1 in zygotes led to a significant decrease in the rate of blastocyst formation. Furthermore, treatment of zygotes with the CSNK1A1-specific inhibitor D4476 also resulted in embryonic developmental arrest. These results provide the first evidence for a novel function of CSNK1A1 in early embryonic development in mice. • Csnk1a1 was detected in preimplantation embryos, peaking in two-cell-stage ones. • CSNK1A1 protein was mainly localized in cytoplasm in preimplantation embryos. • Csnk1a1 knockdown in zygotes or CSNK1A1 inhibition led to embryonic developmental arrest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photothermal therapy (PTT) is a promising treatment that efficiently suppresses local cancer, but fails to induce a robust antitumor immune response against tumor metastasis and recurrence. In this study, a NIR responsive nano-immunostimulant (Mn/A-HP NI) is fabricated by entrapping manganese and azo-initiator (AIPH) into hyaluronic acid-based polypyrrole nanoparticle. The as-prepared Mn/A-HP NIs with a high photothermal conversion efficiencey of 20.17% dramatically induced the imunogenic cell death of tumor cells and triggered the release ATP and HMGB1. Meanwhile, the hyperthermia induced AIPH decomposition to produce alkyl radicals which further destroyed cancer cells. Furthermore, the Mn/A-HP NIs were capable of promoting the maturation and antigen cross-presentation ability of dendritic cells. Consequently, the multifunctional Mn/A-HP NIs provided a combined treatment via integrating PTT/chemo-dynamic therapy and immune activation for tumor therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, Ni@Pt core-shell nanoparticles with diameter of 3-4 nm and thin Pt shell was synthesized by a successive reduction approach using carbon as support to develop high-performance non-enzymatic glucose sensor. The resulting electrochemical sensor displayed good catalytic activity toward glucose oxidation, presenting a high current density of 66.9 µA mM−1 cm−2 at an applied potential of −0.1 V. It showed a wide linear range of 0.1-30.1 mM and the limit of detection was down to 30 µM ( S/ N=3). Notably, it was found that the proposed sensor exhibited good selectivity to avoid the interference from ascorbic acid, uric acid, fructose and acetamidophenol. Furthermore, the feasibility of the as-prepared non-enzymatic glucose sensor in the determination of glucose in serum samples was successfully implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fe@Pt core–shell nanoparticles were synthetized by spontaneous replacement reaction, using Vulcan XC-72 carbon as support. The physical properties of the obtained Fe@Pt/C nanocomposites were characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and the electrocatalytic performances of the Fe@Pt/C were evaluated by cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry. Compared with the Pt/C, the Fe@Pt/C exhibited preferable electrocatalytic activity towards the reduction of hydrogen peroxide, and the oxidation of glucose and formaldehyde. Amperometric sensing of hydrogen peroxide was linear to its concentration in the range from 2.5 μM to 41.605 mM, with a detection limit of 750 nM (S/N = 3) and a sensitivity of 218.97 μA mM −1 cm −2 . At the same time, the sensor based on Fe@Pt/C showed a linear response range of 1–16 mM glucose, and of 12.5 μM–15.4 mM formaldehyde, with high sensitivities of 11.75 μA mM −1 cm −2 and 40.18 μA mM −1 cm −2 , respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co@Pt core-shell nanoparticles (NPs) were synthetized by a two-step reductive method using carbon (Vulcan XC-72) as a solid support. The NPs were characterized by X-ray diffraction, field emission gun scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. Their electrochemical performance was evaluated by cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and chronoamperometry, and these showed that the Co@Pt NPs display an electrocatalytic activity towards the oxidation of glucose that is much better than that of plain Pt NPs. Under optimized conditions and at pH 7.0, the oxidation current of glucose at a working potential of −50 mV (vs. SCE) is linearly related to its concentration in the 1.0 to 30 mM range, and the detection limit is 0.3 mM (S/N = 3). It therefore covers the clinical range. The sensor also exhibits excellent stability and repeatability. [Figure not available: see fulltext.] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-supervised graph representation Learning (SSGRL) is an emerging technique for machine learning-based expert applications. SSGRL can effectively encode unlabeled data into machine-understandable knowledge embeddings that can be used in downstream expert tasks. Recently, Masked-Graph-Model (MGM) has achieved extraordinary performances in the field of SSGRL. However, MGM inevitably suffers from a so-called Negative-Migration (NM) problem on unbalanced datasets for specific tasks such as graph classification. The NM problem forces the MGM to predict (reconstruct) the dominant nodes causing the ignoring of the minority but critical nodes. To this end, a novel online prediction module is proposed to dynamically predict the nodes with extended contexts that enable minority nodes can have more weights in the model. Based on the online prediction module, a graph representation learning model is proposed to alleviate the NM problem. Extensive experiments demonstrate that the model outperforms state-of-the-art methods on unbalanced datasets and achieves competitive performance on balanced datasets. Moreover, extra experiments demonstrate that the proposed method requires less computational resource overhead than existing methods. The code is available at: https://github.com/DuanhaoranCC/SimGOP. • This paper explores the negative migration problem encountered in unbalanced datasets. • We propose online predict contextual node features, but the not the original data. • The results of graph classification show that the proposed method achieves SOTA results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spatial-multiplexing of nonlinear states of different fiber modes are investigated in a few-mode-fiber-based Kerr resonant cavity. We first design a few-mode fiber (FMF) and optimize the chromatic dispersion for both the fundamental mode (LP01) and the higher-order mode (LP11). A spatial-multiplexing resonant cavity is then constructed by the designed fiber for investigating the coexisted nonlinear states in the spatial dimension. It is founded that the overlap interval of nonlinear states varies with different detuning differences. The coexistence of various nonlinear states is demonstrated within the spatially-multiplexing resonant cavity and eight coexistences are found, including stable soliton state and breather, stable soliton state and Turing pattern, breather and Turing pattern, stable soliton state and chaotic state, two Turing patterns, two chaotic states, two breathers and two stable soliton states. Our study not only enhances the understanding of the fundamental physics of the spatial-multiplexing resonator, but also presents a promising avenue for generating dual frequency combs corresponding to distinct transverse modes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A seedless method has been developed to synthesize seaweed-like Au nanowires on a Au substrate. The amino silane coupling agent 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane was employed to form the active surfaces that facilitate the one dimensional growth. The growth mechanism and controlling parameters were investigated. Furthermore, the compatibility of this synthesis with a colloidal Au substrate was also demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Estimating uncertainty of hydrologic forecasting is valuable to water resources and other relevant decision making processes. Recently, Bayesian Neural Networks (BNNs) have been proved powerful tools for quantifying uncertainty of streamflow forecasting. In this study, we propose a Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) framework (BNN-PIS) to incorporate the uncertainties associated with parameters, inputs, and structures into BNNs. This framework allows the structure of the neural networks to change by removing or adding connections between neurons and enables scaling of input data by using rainfall multipliers. The results show that the new BNNs outperform BNNs that only consider uncertainties associated with parameters and model structures. Critical evaluation of posterior distribution of neural network weights, number of effective connections, rainfall multipliers, and hyper-parameters shows that the assumptions held in our BNNs are not well supported. Further understanding of characteristics of and interactions among different uncertainty sources is expected to enhance the application of neural networks for uncertainty analysis of hydrologic forecasting. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease of public health concern. The most devastating pathology in schistosomiasis japonica and mansoni is mainly attributed to the egg-induced granulomatous response and secondary fibrosis in host liver, which may lead to portal hypertension or even death of the host. Schistosome eggs induce M2 macrophages-rich granulomas and these M2 macrophages play critical roles in the maintenance of granuloma and subsequent fibrosis. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are highly produced by stimulated macrophages during infection and necessary for the differentiation of M2 macrophages, are massively distributed around deposited eggs in the liver. However, whether ROS are induced by schistosome eggs to subsequently promote M2 macrophage differentiation, and the possible underlying mechanisms as well, remain to be clarified during S. japonicum infection. Herein, we observed that extensive expression of ROS in the liver of S. japonicum-infected mice. Injection of ROS inhibitor in infected mice resulted in reduced hepatic granulomatous responses and fibrosis. Further investigations revealed that inhibition of ROS production in S. japonicum-infected mice reduces the differentiation of M2, accompanied by increased M1 macrophage differentiation. Finally, we proved that S. japonicum egg antigens (SEA) induce a high level of ROS production via both nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase 2 (NOX2) and mitochondria in macrophages. Our study may help to better understand the mechanism of schistosomiasis japonica-induced hepatic pathology and contribute to the development of potential therapeutic strategies by interfering with ROS production. Author summary: Schistosomiasis is a neglected parasitic disease of poverty that affects ~200 million people mainly in (sub)tropical regions, resulting in a massive health burden and serious morbidity. During Schistosoma japonicum (S. japonicum) or S. mansoni infection, parasite eggs are trapped in host liver and induce hepatic granulomas and fibrosis, which leads to severe liver damage, and even death of the host. In hepatic schistosomiasis, considerable amounts of ROS accumulate in granulomas surrounding liver-trapped eggs. However, whether schistosome eggs trigger the production of ROS, and if so, whether and how ROS promote hepatic pathology in host remain unknown. In this study, the authors illustrated that S. japonicum eggs evoke high production of ROS in macrophages, which is necessary for egg-mediated M2 macrophage differentiation and promotes hepatic granulomas and fibrosis in S. japonicum-infected mice. These discoveries provide a potential target regarding schistosome eggs-induced ROS production, which can be manipulated to regulate immunopathology in hepatic schistosomiasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although zero-shot learning (ZSL) has an inferential capability of recognizing new classes that have never been seen before, it always faces two fundamental challenges of the cross modality and cross-domain challenges. In order to alleviate these problems, we develop a generative network-based ZSL approach equipped with the proposed Cross Knowledge Learning (CKL) scheme and Taxonomy Regularization (TR). In our approach, the semantic features are taken as inputs, and the output is the synthesized visual features generated from the corresponding semantic features. CKL enables more relevant semantic features to be trained for semantic-to-visual feature embedding in ZSL, while Taxonomy Regularization (TR) significantly improves the intersections with unseen images with more generalized visual features generated from generative network. Extensive experiments on several benchmark datasets (i.e., AwA1, AwA2, CUB, NAB and aPY) show that our approach is superior to these state-of-the-art methods in terms of ZSL image classification and retrieval. • Cross Knowledge Learning (CKL) is proposed to train more relevant semantic features. • Taxonomy Regularization (TR) is designed to generate more generalized visual features. • Extensive experiments show our approach performs well for zero-shot learning task. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infection with schistosome results in immunological changes that might influence the skeletal system by inducing immunological states affecting bone metabolism. We investigated the relationships between chronic schistosome infection and bone metabolism by using a mouse model of chronic schistosomiasis, affecting millions of humans worldwide. Results showed that schistosome infection resulted in aberrant osteoclast-mediated bone loss, which was accompanied with an increased level of receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) Ligand (RANKL) and decreased level of osteoprotegerin (OPG). The blockade of RANKL by the anti-RANKL antibody could prevent bone loss in the context of schistosome infection. Meanwhile, both B cells and CD4+ T cells, particularly follicular helper T (Tfh) cell subset, were the important cellular sources of RANKL during schistosome infection. These results highlight the risk of bone loss in schistosome-infected patients and the potential benefit of coupling bone therapy with anti-schistosome treatment. Author summary: Schistosomiasis remains an important public health problem in many countries in tropical and subtropical regions, which affects about 200 million people worldwide, with another 700 million considered at risk of infection. Although the primary cause of pathogenesis of schistosomiasis is the granulomatous inflammatory responses, schistosomiasis patients experience long-term hidden pathologies that remain poorly investigated. Here, we found that schistosome infection resulted in RANKL-associated bone loss. Furthermore, our results indicated that both B cells and CD4+ T cells, particularly Tfh cell subset, in the peripheral lymphoid tissues are likely to be the important contributors to bone loss through releasing soluble RANKL. In addition, Tfh cells played a sufficient but not necessary role in schistosome infection-induced bone loss. Our findings highlight the risk of bone loss in schistosome-infected patients and the potential benefit of coupling bone therapy with anti-schistosome treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease with over 250 million people infected worldwide. The main clinically important species Schistosoma mansoni (S. mansoni) and Schistosoma japonicum (S. japonicum) cause inflammatory responses against tissue‐trapped eggs, resulting in formation of granulomas mainly in host liver. Persistent granulomatous response results in severe fibrosis in the liver, leading to irreversible impairment of the liver and even death of the host. CD1d, a highly conserved MHC class I‐like molecule, is expressed by both haematopoietic and non‐haematopoietic cells. CD1d on antigen‐presenting cells (APCs) of haematopoietic origin presents pathogen‐derived lipid antigens to natural killer T (NKT) cells, which enables them to rapidly produce large amounts of various cytokines and facilitate CD4+ T helper (Th) cell differentiation upon invading pathogens. Noteworthy, hepatocytes of non‐haematopoietic origin have recently been shown to be involved in maintaining liver NKT cell homeostasis through a CD1d‐dependent manner. However, whether hepatocyte CD1d‐dependent regulation of NKT cell homeostasis also modulates CD4+ Th cell responses and liver immunopathology in murine schistosomiasis remains to be addressed. Here, we show in mice that CD1d expression on hepatocytes was decreased dramatically upon S. japonicum infection, accompanied by increased NKT cells, as well as upregulated Th1 and Th2 responses. Overexpression of CD1d in hepatocytes significantly decreased local NKT numbers and cytokines (IFN‐γ, IL‐4, IL‐13), concomitantly with downregulation of both Th1 and Th2 responses and alleviation in pathological damage in livers of S. japonicum‐infected mice. These findings highlight the potential of hepatocyte CD1d‐targeted therapies for liver immunopathology control in schistosomiasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemokine receptor CXCR5-mediated control of B cell trafficking in the lymphoid tissues plays a central role in orchestrating the B cell function, which not only guides the colocalization of B cells with follicular helper T cells in the follicular mantle zone but also determines the position of germinal center dark and light zones. However, the mechanisms that regulate the expression of CXCR5 in B cells remain unclear. Here, we show that the expression level of CXCR5 in B cells was substantially reduced in vitro culture conditions, while being maintained in the presence of CD40 signals. Furthermore, CD40 signaling promotes CXCR5 expression in B cells at least partially through noncanonical NF-κB signaling pathway activation. However, other non-B cells also contributed to the optimal expression of CXCR5 in B cells through cell-cell contact and cytokine secretion. Our findings suggest that CD40 signaling-mediated activation of the noncanonical NF-κB pathway promotes the expression of CXCR5 in a B cell-intrinsic way to orchestrate the trafficking of B cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fetal hydronephrosis (HY) is a frequent congenital condition, which may be detected by prenatal ultrasound. Society for Fetal Urology (SFU) and anterior-posterior diameter (APD) grading are two major grading systems based on ultrasonography. The present study aimed to assess the predictive value of the SFU and APD grades in patients with fetal HY. A total of 162 patients with 234 kidneys affected by HY were included in the present study. The SFU and APD grades were determined from the ultrasound images at 38 gestational weeks, and a 12-month follow-up was performed after birth. The associations of the SFU and APD grades with the outcome of fetal HY, including HY regression, and post-partum surgery were examined. In the present study, 16 patients with 17 kidneys were diagnosed with pathological HY, and stenosis at the ureteropelvic junction was demonstrated to be a leading cause of pathological HY. Among the 234 kidneys affected by HY, 161 kidneys were scored as SFU grade I, 57 as SFU grade II, 7 as SFU grade III and 9 kidneys as SFU grade IV. According to the APD grading system, 112 kidneys were determined as having low, 104 as having moderate and 18 as having severe HY. The SFU and APD grades were demonstrated to be independently associated with the occurrence of pathological HY by logistic regression analysis with a high diagnostic accuracy to distinguish pathological and physiological HY cases as evidenced by the results of ROC analysis. In addition, univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that patients with spontaneous HY regression usually had low SFU and APD grades. Furthermore, the rate of surgery was increased in the group of patients with high SFU or APD grades, and these two systems were identified as independent predictors for the requirement of surgery by Kaplan-Meier analysis. Patients with pathological HY had high SFU and APD grades, and these two grading systems may be used as reliable predictors for the outcome of fetal HY, including HY regression, and post-partum surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptors with a pyrin domain (PYD)-containing protein 9 (NLRP9) was the first nucleotide-binding region receptor (NLR) proposed to be expressed and function only in the reproductive system. Recent evidence suggests that NLRP9 is also capable of playing a role in infectious and inflammatory diseases. In this study, we examined the expression of NLRP9 in various tissues of piglets and IPEC-J2 cells. The results showed that high expression of NLRP9 mRNA and protein were detected in both intestine of piglets and IPEC-J2 cells. Both LPS and poly I:C significantly up-regulated NLRP9 protein levels in the IPEC-J2 cells. Besides, poly I:C upregulated the level of transcriptional elements NF-κB, IRF3, IRF7 , ISG15, ISG56, OAS1, and IFNB1. Furthermore, interference with the NLRP9 gene in the presence of poly I:C strongly downregulated the expression of all the above genes. Moreover, we demonstrated for the first time that NLRP9 acts in combination with VIM (Vimentin). These results suggested that NLRP9 may participate in the antiviral innate immune by binding to VIM in the porcine intestine. The findings provide preliminary insights into the molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of mucosal immunity in the porcine intestine by NLRP9. • Both LPS and poly I:C significantly up-regulated NLRP9 levels in the IPEC-J2 cells. • Knockdown of NLRP9 decreased the level of interferon related genes. • NLRP9 may participate in the antiviral innate immune by binding to VIM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Platinum-based chemotherapy is one of the standard treatments for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), while its high toxicity and limited clinical effects raise big concerns. Shenfu injection (SFI) has been commonly used as an adjutant chemotherapy drug for NSCLC in China. We ascertained the beneficial and adverse effects of SFI in combination with platinum-based chemotherapy for advanced NSCLC by using meta-analysis methods. The randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving advanced NSCLC treatment with SFI plus platinum-based chemotherapy versus chemotherapy alone were searched on 6 medical databases up to February 2017. Cochrane handbook 5.1.0 was applied to assess the quality of included trials and RevMan 5.3 software was employed for data analysis. 23 RCTs including 1574 patients met our inclusion criteria. We evaluated the following outcome measures: objective tumor response (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), Karnofsky performance score (KPS), adverse effects, and indicators of cellular immune function. The meta-analysis indicated that SFI plus platinum-based chemotherapy may benefit the patients with NSCLC on attenuated synergies of chemotherapy. These findings need to be confirmed by further rigorously designed high-quality and large-scale RCTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the interaction between orthogonal components of three types of vector solitons which are generated in a passively mode-locked fiber laser. By adjusting pump power and cavity birefringence, single, dual and bound state vector solitons can be selectively acquired, while all the types of vector solitons reveal energy exchange phenomenon on spectral sidebands. Moreover, the numerical simulation fully reproduces the experimental results, which confirms that the soliton separation is the key parameter that determines the formation of energy exchange sidebands. These results would provide inspirations for the evolution of interaction between solitons and greatly enhance the understanding of soliton dynamics. • Apart from traditional EE sidebands of fundamental single VS, we have firstly achieved and investigated the EE phenomenon of bound state VSs and dual VSs generated from a passively mode-locked fiber laser. • Moreover, we verify the experimental results through numerical simulation of these obtained VSs. It is confirmed that EE sidebands can be clearly observed only if the two orthogonal components of VSs are trapped each other with zero time separation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Chemokines and their corresponding receptors participate in transmigration of leukemic cells. ERM (ezrin/radixin/moesin) protein family act as linkers between the plasma membrane and the cytoskeleton and are key component in tumor metastasis. In this study we used the CCR9-expressing acute T lymphocytic cell line MOLT4 as a model and assesssed their morphological and functional changes in response to CCL25. The pseudopodium formed and ERM translocated from the cytoplasm to the cell membrane following treatment with CCL25. Ezrin silencing by miRNA showed that ezrin plays important roles in the polarization and invasive behaviour of MOLT4 cells. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]