Search

As a star vegetable, sprouts have many advantages, such as high nutritional value, crisp and juicy taste, short growth cycle and simple cultivation conditions, which have been widely welcomed around the world. As consumers' demand for healthier foods grows, new technologies need to be developed urgently to improve the quality of sprouts. Among them, electrolyzed water (EW) and plasma-activated water (PAW), which have merits of green, sustainable and low-cost, have wide potential for application in hydroponic sprout cultivation. This work reviews the effects of EW and PAW on growth, chemical compositions, microbiological safety and postharvest quality of sprouts and compares the effects of EW and PAW comprehensively. In addition, some regulations and challenges in practical application were also discussed. EW and PAW show outstanding effects during sprout production, including: 1) promoting seed germination and sprout growth during cultivation; 2) accelerating hydrolysis of macromolecules compounds and accumulation of bioactive compounds in sprouts during cultivation; 3) inhibiting growth of microorganisms on sprouts during cultivation; 4) improving postharvest quality of sprouts during postharvest washing. In addition, EW and PAW each seem to have more obvious advantages in improving certain qualities of sprouts, thus producers need to use them wisely to maximize their strengths. On these grounds, EW and PAW are promising technologies to develop considerable application value in sprout industry. • Electrolyzed water (EW) and plasma-activated water (PAW) show promising performance in sprouts hydroponic production. • EW and PAW improve growth, nutritional and functional value, microbiological safety and postharvest quality of sprouts. • Effects of EW and PAW in sprouts production are compared and their respective advantages are discussed. • Mechanisms of action of EW and PAW, and combined application of multiple technologies are key research trends. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The edible coating is proved to be a convenient approach for fruit preservation. Among these published explorations, naturally sourced macromolecules and green crosslinking strategies gain attention. This work centers on edible coatings containing Ca2+ as crosslinker for the first time, delving into crosslinking mechanisms, include alginate, chitosan, Aloe vera gel, gums, etc. Additionally, the crucial functions of Ca2+ in fruit's quality control are also elaborated in-depth, involving cell wall, calmodulin, antioxidant, etc. Through a comprehensive review, it becomes evident that Ca2+ plays a dual role in fruit edible coating. Specifically, Ca2+ constructs a three-dimensional dense network structure with polymers through ionic bonding. Moreover, Ca2+ acts directly with cell wall to maintain fruit firmness and serve as a second messenger to participate secondary physiological metabolism. In brief, coatings containing Ca2+ present remarkable effects in preserving fruit and this work may provide guidance for Ca2+ related fruit preservation coatings. [Display omitted] • Ca2+ enhances the network structure of polymer through crosslinking. • Edible coatings containing Ca2+ regulate the physiological metabolism and the postharvest quality of fruit. • Coating substrates containing Ca2+ include alginate, chitosan, gums, gelatin, etc. • Ca2+ coatings are mostly crosslinked externally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the globalization of trade, the current fresh fruit supply chain now incorporates multiple entities, wide distribution, and intricate transactions. This brings about the issues of information tamper resistance, supply-demand relationship, and traceable supervision. Blockchain is a distributed ledger technology with advantages of tamper resistance of information. It is expected to solve the problem of transaction resource allocation among several untrusted participants in the fresh fruit supply chain. This article recommends the use of blockchain to upgrade the current fresh fruit supply chain, and highlights the advantages of blockchain in supply chain management. The obstacles faced by the implementation of this technology in relation to participants' attitude, fruit preservation, and blockchain technical loopholes have been analyzed as well. Blockchain can upgrade fresh fruit supply chain. It collects and uploads reliable data from fruit picking to final consumption through IoT-related technologies. After hash encryption and consensus verification, it is transmitted to P2P network for sharing. It balances the tension between supply and demand, brings funds for enterprises, simplifies supervision and traceability. Smart contracts reduce the cost of communication and trust. However, blockchain has some limitations such as difficulties in incorporating architecture, reliance on the IoT, immature fruit preservation technology, unclear legal supervision, lack of reference cases, and technical loopholes. • The combination of blockchain and IoT can collect reliable data from fruit picking to consumers. • Blockchain and smart contracts can reduce the operating cost of the fresh fruit supply chain. • Blockchain can simplify the process of government supervision and traceability. • The enterprise application of blockchain in fresh fruit supply chain also faces risks and challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we investigated the effects of CNCs stabilized Pickering emulsions on the structures and properties of SA films, and explored the combined effects on improving film performances between GEO and CNCs. Moreover, we validated the effects of prepared coating films for improving mango fruit storage quality and redox state. This study might reveal the potential mechanisms of how Pickering emulsion improves the gas barrier, hydrophobicity, mechanical properties, and antioxidant capacity of SA films. Thus, made the prepared composite film more beneficial for mango fruit preservation. [Display omitted] • Pickering emulsion stabilized by cellulose nanocrystals showed a uniform system. • Pickering emulsion improved the properties of sodium alginate composite film. • The film had a sustained release effect on ginger essential oil. • The film maintained high postharvest qualities for mangos. The insufficient water vapor barrier and mechanical capacity of sodium alginate (SA) film limited its application in fruit preservation. Herein, cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) were used to stabilize Pickering emulsion. Then, we prepared SA composite films. Ginger essential oil (GEO) was loaded as antimicrobials and antioxidants. Finally, the application on mangos were investigated. Compared to coarse emulsion, Pickering emulsion and its film-formation-solution showed more stable system and larger droplet size. The emulsion significantly changed the properties of SA film. Specifically, CNCs improved the thermal, tensile, and barrier properties of the film and GEO enhanced the ultraviolet-visible light barrier capacity. Additionally, the SA/CNC film possessed a homogeneous micromorphology which had a sustained-release effect on GEO, thus maintaining high postharvest quality and long-term bioavailability for mangos. In conclusion, the film prepared via Pickering emulsion showed satisfactory properties which had great potential in fruit preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Left ventricular-arterial coupling (VAC), defined as the ratio of effective arterial elastance (Ea) to left ventricular end-systolic elastance (Ees), has been extensively described as a key determinant of cardiovascular work efficacy. Previous studies indicated that left ventricular-arterial uncoupling was associated with worse tissue perfusion and increased mortality in shock patients. Therefore, this study aims to investigate whether a resuscitation algorithm based on optimizing left VAC during the initial resuscitation can improve prognosis in patients with septic shock. Methods: This pilot study was conducted in an intensive care unit (ICU) of a tertiary teaching hospital in China. A total of 83 septic shock patients with left ventricular-arterial uncoupling (i.e., the Ea/Ees ratio ≥ 1.36) were randomly assigned to receive usual care (usual care group, n = 42) or an algorithm-based resuscitation that attempt to reduce the Ea/Ees ratio to 1 within the first 6 h after randomization (VAC-optimized group, n = 41). The left VAC was evaluated by transthoracic echocardiography every 2 h during the study period. The primary endpoint was 28-days mortality. The secondary endpoints included lactate clearance rate, length of ICU stay, and duration of invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV). Results: Eighty-two patients (98.8%) completed the study and were included in the final analysis. The Ea/Ees ratio was reduced in both groups, and the decrease in Ea/Ees ratio in the VAC-optimized group was significantly greater than that in the usual care group [median (interquartile range), 0.39 (0.26, 0.45) vs. 0.1 (0.06, 0.22); P < 0.001]. Compared with the usual care group, the VAC-optimized group likely exhibited the potential to reduce the 28-days mortality (33% vs. 50%; log-rank hazard ratio = 0.526, 95% confidence interval: 0.268 to 1.033). Moreover, the VAC-optimized group had a higher lactate clearance rate than the usual care group [27.7 (11.9, 45.7) % vs. 18.3 (− 5.7, 32.1) %; P = 0.038]. No significant difference was observed in terms of the length of ICU stay or duration of IMV. Conclusions: During the initial resuscitation of septic shock, optimizing left ventricular-arterial coupling was associated with improved lactate clearance, while likely having a beneficial effect on prognosis. Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR1900024031. Registered 23 June 2019 - Retrospectively registered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A major difficulty in integrating large scale wind power generation in an electrical power system is that wind generated power appears to be erratic, intermittent, and volatile. In this paper, we demonstrate the efficacies of a novel ultra short term 1-step ahead wind generated power prediction model, by combining two best of breed machine learning models in their respective areas of applications: a deep convolutional neural network (CNN) model, known to be effective in classification problems, and a bi-directional long short term memory (Bi-LSTM) model, known to be effective in 1-step ahead time series prediction problems, using a cross attention (XA) mechanism on three challenging practical datasets: the East-China dataset, the Yalova (Turkey) dataset, and the 16 MW dataset. There are two alternative cross attention models: (1) using the CNN features as the key–value pair, and the Bi-LSTM features as the query, this we called a XA model, and (2) using the Bi-LSTM features as the key–value pair, and the CNN features as the query, this we called a XA_I model; we found empirically for a properly chosen sliding window length, whichever CNN model or Bi-LSTM model performs well in the 1-step ahead prediction, then its features should be used as the query in the cross attention mechanism, thus, the XA achieves better results than XA_I on the East-China dataset, while XA_I achieves better results than XA on the Yalova dataset, and on the 16 MW dataset. Where comparable results using other state-of-the-art models are available on the Yalova dataset and the 16 MW dataset, we found that our XA_I results are superior. Moreover, it is found empirically, that the cross attention mechanism model produces stable k -step ahead predictions, for k ≤ W 2 , where W is the sliding window length. • A novel prediction model for wind generated power based on cross attention mechanism has been proposed. • The proposed method demonstrated on three practical datasets to have superior performance. • The cross attention mechanism based models give a stable multi-step ahead prediction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an inflammatory disease characterized by the deterioration of renal function, which imposes a significant burden on the healthcare system. In the recent decades, the ageing of the population and the increase of ozone pollution have accelerated. However, epidemiological associations between long-term ozone exposure and renal function in susceptible populations are understudied. In this study, we aimed to investigate the association of 1 y ozone exposure with renal function among the older adults in Xiamen City, China. We recruited 6024 eligible participants with a median age of 65.00 years, estimated their ozone exposure data, and collected questionnaires on demographic status and lifestyle factors as well as information on healthcare access. A generalized linear model was used to assess the association. An increase of 10 μg/m3 of 1 y ozone exposure was negatively associated with the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) [-3.12 (95% CI: −4.76, −1.48)]. The associations were stronger in men, non-smokers, and those with hypertension or T2DM. Clinical indicators of high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, and total cholesterol were the main mediators to regulate the ozone-renal function association. Our results suggested that long-term ozone exposure is a potential risk factor for renal function in Chinese middle-aged and elderly adults. [Display omitted] • Renal function indicated by eGFR level was negatively associated with a 10 mg/m3 increase of 1-year ozone exposure [-3.12 (95% CI : −4.76, −1.48)]. • The ozone-eGFR/renal function associations were stronger among males, non-smokers, and the patients with hypertension or T2DM. • The ozone-eGFR/renal function associations were mainly regulated by high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, and total cholesterol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vibration damage is commonly existed in the pear fruit postharvest logistics process, which can lead to serious fruit quality deterioration. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of composite coating of guar gum (GG) with salicylic acid (SA) on mitigating the quality deterioration of vibration damaged 'Huangguan' pear fruit stored at 22 ± 2 ℃ for up to 25 d. The GG-SA coating treatment could reduce weight loss, alleviate the decrease of firmness, SSC and TA, inhibit respiration, maintain a high cell membrane integrity and alleviate excessive oxidative damage of vibration damaged fruit. The combined GG-SA treatment was more effective in regulating antioxidant metabolism in vibration damaged fruit compared to GG or SA treatment alone. Superoxide dismutase, ascorbate peroxidase, catalase, peroxidase and glutathione reductase activity were improved in vibration damaged fruit coated with GG-SA, while polyphenol oxidase activity was inhibited in vibration damaged fruit coated with GG-SA. In addition, GG-SA coating treatment also increased the content of antioxidant substances and antioxidant capacity of vibration damaged fruit. GG-SA coating treatment can provide a practical solution to the vibration-induced postharvest losses of 'Huangguan' pear fruit. [Display omitted] • GG-SA coating kept the quality of vibration damaged pear fruit. • GG-SA coating suppressed the respiration rate of vibration damaged pear fruit. • GG-SA coating maintained the antioxidant homeostasis of vibration damaged pear fruit. • GG-SA coating has the potential to reduce the losses by postharvest vibration damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the environmental pollution problems caused by plastic-based packaging, the development of edible food packaging films is imminent. However, the performance of most edible packaging films is insufficient to meet practical applications, so recent studies have focused on the research of various fillers to improve film properties. This article reviews recent applications of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) and cellulose nanofiber (CNF) in edible food packaging films including the effect on thickness, optical properties, barrier properties, water sensitivity, mechanical properties, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The main conclusion of this review is that the incorporation of CNC and CNF could significantly improve the performance of edible food packaging films. Particular finding is that although CNC and CNF can be used as excellent addition to improve the performance of edible food packaging films, there is a key "optimum" concentration. In addition, we also found that CNC and CNF as excellent controlled release agents and stabilizers significantly increased the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of edible food packaging films. Unlabelled Image • Recent developments of nanocellulose incorporated edible food packaging (EFP) films. • Nanocellulose is excellent enhancer in EFP films. • There exist an "optimum" concentration of added nanocellulose in EFP film. • Nanocellulose crystals are more functionally stable than nanocellulose fibers. • Nanocellulose is excellent controlled release agent and stabilizer in EFP films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing demand for gluten-free bakery products from groups with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, and/or health consciousness. Besides bread products, chemically leavened gluten-free products such as cookies, biscuits, cakes, muffins, and crackers are receiving increasing interests due to their convenience and unique taste and texture. Many research papers have been published in recent years; however, no comprehensive review has yet been available in this area. This review examines various gluten-free non-bread bakery goods with respect to formulation, preparation, and properties of dough and batter and the resultant products. Other functional ingredients such as proteins, fibers, hydrocolloids, and emulsifiers used to improve product properties are discussed. Challenges of developing the gluten-free bakery products, such as technological limitation, nutritional quality, and sensory properties are addressed. Knowledge and information gaps in this research area are identified, and future research needs are recommended. Rice flour is the mostly used gluten-free flour for these purposes, and it is often formulated with flours, starches, and proteins from cereals, pulses, pseudocereals, and other plant materials to achieve optimal batter or dough properties and bakery product quality. Although the composition of gluten-free composite flours and formulation dominate product texture and sensory traits, other factors such as grain milling methods, flour particle size, and flour treatment could also have some impact. The current gluten-free cookies, biscuits, cakes, muffins, and crackers are still less desirable than wheat-based products. Further research is warranted in developing and evaluating more palatable and nutritious gluten-free products. Image 1 • Gluten-free non-bread bakeries of cookie, biscuit, cake, and cracker are reviewed. • Rice and its composite flours are widely used for gluten-free bakery products. • Flour composition and formulation dominate dough/batter and product properties. • Achieving desired flour functionality and sensory quality is yet challenging. • Further research is warranted in improving product palatability and nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

What is the effect of tubal endometriosis on tubal epithelial ultrastructure and is there a differential expression of exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) in tubal fluid which may affect tubal infertility? Human fallopian tube epithelium and tubal fluid samples were obtained from patients with and without tubal endometriosis. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy were used to assess ultrastructural changes. Exosomal miRNAs in tubal fluid were extracted for microarray. Epithelial damage was visualized in the tubal endometriosis group using electron microscopy. The number of organelles decreased (P = 0.0314), and organelle structure was destroyed. A total of 14 differentially expressed exosomal miRNAs were detected in tubal fluid (fold change >2 and P < 0.05). Four miRNAs (miR-1273f, miR-5699-5p, miR-6087 and miR-6747-5p) were validated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Bioinformatic analysis showed that most of the target genes participated in embryo transport, regulation of cell communication, anatomical structure morphogenesis and immune system processes. Tubal endometriosis results in damage to the tubal epithelial ultrastructure in human specimens and the presence of differentially expressed exosomal miRNAs in tubal liquid. These findings help to clarify the pathogenesis of tubal endometriosis-associated infertility and the mechanisms driving tubal epithelial ultrastructure damage in tubal endometriosis. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The limitation of preservation technology causes great losses on fresh fruits and vegetables (F&V) during postharvest. Ultraviolet (UV) as a secondary catalyst can trigger the photooxidation chain reaction in F&V, and induce them rapid oxidation, senescence, and rot. Many studies have shown that adding UV barrier ingredients to film/coating packaging can effectively delay the deterioration of F&V food. This work reviews the strategies used to enhance the UV barrier properties in films/coatings over the past five years, focusing on their application in F&V quality maintenance. Then, UV induction effect on F&V deterioration and potential mechanism are discussed. In addition, the UV barrier mechanism and the future trends were summarized. UV can cause the disintegration of endogenous photosensitizers of F&V through reactive oxygen species and seriously affects their physiological and metabolic balance. The enhancement strategies for enhancing the film/coating UV barrier properties mainly include the addition of UV barrier components and the improvement of film structure. The UV barrier components can absorb UV through electronic transition in chromogenic groups, electron hole pairs, sp2 hybridization of central atoms, as well as surface plasmon resonance, or barrier UV via light reflection, refraction, and scattering. In addition, enhancing the film/coating structure can adjust the surface roughness, internal crosslinking state, and UV barrier ingredients' retention thus improving UV barrier performance. However, most of present studies only focus on the improvement of UV barrier films/coatings on F&V quality and pay less attention to the physiological state. [Display omitted] • Ultraviolet can produce reactive oxygen species or affect physiological metabolism, thus causing quality deterioration of fruits and vegetables. • Ultraviolet barrier ability of films/coatings can be improved by barrier agents and enhanced structure. • The possible mechanisms of ultraviolet barrier are absorbing photons and changing light path. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• CGA + SA treatment enhanced the texture at wound sites and improved postharvest quality of pears. • CGA + SA treatment led to the deposition of SPP and lignin at pear wound sites. • CGA + SA promoted phenylpropane metabolic so that stimulating wound healing of pear fruits. Water loss and microbial infection induced by mechanical injury are the main sources of harvested loss of fruits and vegetables. Plenty studies have shown that regulating phenylpropane-related metabolic pathways can effectively accelerate wound healing. The combination treatment of chlorogenic acid and sodium alginate coating on postharvest wound healing of pear fruit were investigated in this work. The result shows combination treatment reduced weight loss and disease index of the pears, enhanced texture of healing tissues, maintained the integrity of cell membrane system. Moreover, chlorogenic acid increased the content of total phenols and flavonoids, and ultimately leads to the accumulation of suberin poly phenolic (SPP) and lignin around wound cell wall. Activities of phenylalanine metabolism-related enzymes (PAL, C4H, 4CL, CAD, POD and PPO) in wound-healing tissue were enhanced. The contents of major substrates such as trans -cinnamic, p-coumaric, caffeic, and ferulic acids also increased. The presented results suggested that the combination treatment of chlorogenic acid and sodium alginate coating stimulated wound healing in pears by elevating the phenylpropanoid metabolism pathway, so that maintain high postharvest fruit quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • CI/CNT composite was obtained by epitaxial growth-pyrolysis scheme. • Embedding CNT between CI sheets, it exhibits great EMWA in a wide filling range. • By the meta-structure design, the composite achieved RL < −10 dB in 2–18 GHz. Magnetic carbon-based composites derived from metal organic frameworks (MOFs), with tunable morphology and highly dispersed magnetic particles, show great potential as electromagnetic wave absorbing (EMWA) materials. Here, a composite with carbon nanotube (CNT) embedded only between the gaps of carbonyl iron (CI) sheets were obtained, which was achieved by controlling the collapse state of the MOF skeleton during pyrolysis. The unique distribution can prevent the production of global conduction channels, resulting in the impedance matching between air and the composites in the broadened filling range. The composite thus can achieve a broadband absorption in the frequency range of 2–18 GHz by structure design. This work provides a new approach for EMWA materials to reduce the preparation difficulty of broadband absorbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper according to the requirements of the unique production process of the "Tangshan bone china" geographic indication products, specified 315 pieces of bone china 8 inch flat produced by 15 different enterprises as the experimental samples. By measuring the tricalcium phosphate content in the prime tyres and the bibulous rate value of white bone china, map out a series of C3P-ω detection data points accumulation line chart. Verified by analysis of the qualitative and quantitative relationship between tricalcium phosphate content and bibulous rate of "Tangshan bone china", derived the following conclusions: with the increase of tricalcium phosphate content of "Tangshan bone china", its bibulous rate value increases accordingly, they have approximate linear positive correlation; with 36%∼42% of C3P levels corresponding to the bibulous rate numerical range of 0.10%∼0.30%.The research results can provide scientific reference to the manufacturing enterprise for improving the production process and the quality control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Two novel fluorescence quenching BELISAs based on QDs was developed and compared in this study. • The fluorescence of QDs could be effectively quenched via IFE and FRET. • The study provided sensitive methods for ENRO detection in animal-derived foods. • The results of the developed methods showed high agreement with that of HPLC. In this study, two novel fluorescence quenching biomimetic enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were constructed for the sensitive detection of enrofloxacin (ENRO) in animal-derived foods. In this strategy, the fluorescence of quantum dots (QDs) was efficiently quenched by the enzymatic formation of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and Prussian blue nanoparticles (PBNPs) in biomimetic enzyme-linked immunosorbent (BELISA). Under the optimal conditions, the detection limit (IC 15) of the method using HRP was 1.67 ng/L, and the sensitivity (IC 50) was 0.57 μg L−1, while IC 15 of the method using PBNPs reached to 1.02 ng/L, and IC 50 was 0.04 μg L−1. The recoveries of these proposed methods ranged from 83.37 to 118.08 %, with the CV values of 0.32–17.01 %. The results from the proposed methods showed high agreement with results yielded by using HPLC. In a conclusion, this conversion of the absorption signal into fluorescent signals led to an increase in the sensitivity of ENRO detection in animal-derived foods. And it is worth noting that compared to the proposed fluorescence quenching BELISA using HRP as catalyst, the method using PBNPs as catalyst showed a higher sensitivity with a 14-fold lower IC 50 , demonstrating the good application prospect of nano-enzyme in biomimetic immunoassay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rapid development of computer technology, artificial intelligence and big data technology have undergone a qualitative leap, permeating into various industries. In order to fully harness the role of artificial intelligence in the field of nuclear engineering, we propose to use the LSTM algorithm in deep learning to model the BEAVRS (Benchmark for Evaluation And Validation of Reactor Simulations) core first cycle loading. The BEAVRS core is simulated by DRAGON and DONJON, the training set and the test set are arranged in a sequential fashion according to the evolution of time, and the LSTM model is constructed by changing a number of hyperparameters. In addition to this, the training set and the test set are retained in a chronological order that is different from one another throughout the whole process. Additionally, there is a significant pattern that is followed when subsetting both the training set and the test set. This pattern applies to both sets. The steps in this design are very carefully arranged. The findings of the experiments suggest that the model can be altered by making use of the appropriate hyperparameters in such a way as to bring the maximum error of the effective multiplication factor keff prediction of the core within 2.5 pcm (10–5), and the average error within 0.5266 pcm, which validated the successful application of machine learning to transport equations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The applications of propolis extracts and propolis functionalized composites on the preservation of fruits and vegetables are presented. • Propolis can inhibit the growth of microorganisms and ensure the post-harvest quality of fruits and vegetables. • The addition of propolis enhances the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of the composites. • Propolis functionalized composites have considerable prospects in the application of fruits and vegetables preservation. Propolis, as a natural active substance, is rich in polyphenols, with low toxicity, antioxidant, antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can be applied to the post-harvest preservation of fruits and vegetables. Propolis extracts and propolis functionalized coatings and films have exhibited good freshness in various types of fruits and vegetables as well as fresh-cut vegetables. They are mainly used to prevent water loss after harvesting, to inhibit the infestation of bacteria and fungi after harvesting and to enhance the firmness and apparent quality of fruits and vegetables. Moreover, propolis and propolis functionalized composites have a small or even insignificant effect on the physicochemical parameters of fruits and vegetables. Furthermore, how to cover the special smell of propolis itself so that it does not affect the flavor of fruits and vegetables, and the application of propolis extract in wrapping paper and packaging bag of fruits and vegetables, are worthwhile to further investigate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The MWCNT-COOH-RGO nanocomposites was developed for detecting enrofloxacin. • The enrofloxacin detection was performed based on two mechanisms. • The direct electrocatalytic oxidation-based detection was rapid and sensitive. • The molecularly imprinted recognition-based detection exhibited ultra-low LOD. • It is a promising candidate for trace detection of enrofloxacin in animal products. A sensitive electrochemical method for detecting enrofloxacin was proposed using carboxylated multi-walled carbon nanotubes-reduced graphene oxide (MWCNT-COOH-RGO) nanocomposites. The MWCNT-COOH-RGO nanocomposites were firstly electrodeposited on a bare electrode, followed by electropolymerization of molecularly imprinted polymers. Enrofloxacin was determined by the mechanisms of direct electrocatalytic oxidation and molecularly imprinted recognition, respectively. Under the optimized conditions, a response range of 5.0×10–7 M to 5.5×10–5 M and limit of detection (LOD) of 2.3×10–7 M were obtained by direct electrocatalytic oxidation of enrofloxacin using chronoamperometry. By contrast, the response range of 1.0×10–10 M to 5.0×10–5 M and LOD of 2.5×10–11 M were achieved by molecularly imprinted recognition of enrofloxacin using square-wave voltammetry. Moreover, the proposed method exhibited good repeatability, stability and selectivity, and could be used for enrofloxacin detection in egg samples with satisfactory results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Peritoneal metastasis (PM) frequently occurs in patients with gastric cancer (GC) and is a major cause of mortality. Risk stratification for PM can optimize decision making in GC treatment. Methods: A total of 25 GC patients (13 with synchronous, 6 with metachronous PM and 6 PM-free) were included in this study. Quantitative proteomics by high-depth tandem mass tags labeling and whole-exome sequencing were conducted in primary GC and PM samples. Proteomic signature and prognostic model were established by machine learning algorithms in PM and PM-free GC, then validated in two external cohorts. Tumor-infiltrating immune cells in GC were analyzed by CIBERSORT. Results: Heterogeneity between paired primary and PM samples was observed at both genomic and proteomic levels. Compared to primary GC, proteome of PM samples was enriched in RNA binding and extracellular exosomes. 641 differently expressed proteins (DEPs) between primary GC of PM group and PM-free group were screened, which were enriched in extracellular exosome and cell adhesion pathways. Subsequently, a ten-protein signature was derived based on DEPs by machine learning. This signature was significantly associated with patient prognosis in internal cohort and two external proteomic datasets of diffuse and mixed type GC. Tumor-infiltrating immune cell analysis showed that the signature was associated with immune microenvironment of GC. Conclusions: We characterized proteomic features that were informative for PM progression of GC. A protein signature associated with immune microenvironment and patient outcome was derived, and it could guide risk stratification and individualized treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tubal ectopic pregnancy (TEP) occurs when an embryo aberrantly implants in the fallopian tube, leading to abortive or ruptured tubal ectopic pregnancy (AEP or REP). Poor outcomes of REP include maternal infertility or mortality. Current studies on the prevention and treatment of ruptured tubal ectopic pregnancy (REP) are unfortunately hampered by a lack of the cell spectrum and cell–cell communications in the maternal–foetal interface. Here, we investigate the mechanisms of tubal rupture through single‐cell transcriptome profiling of the fallopian tube‐trophoblast interface in REP, AEP and intrauterine pregnancy patients. In REP, extravillous trophoblast (EVTs) cells form a dominant cell population, displaying aggressive invasion and proliferation, with robust differentiation into three subsets. Cell communication analysis identified colony‐stimulating factor 1 (CSF1), overexpressed by fallopian tube secretory epithelial cells in REP, with CSF1R on EVTs and macrophages, as a ligand/receptor pair that stimulates EVT invasion and macrophage accumulation. CSF1+ secretory epithelial cells stimulate EVTs migration and invasion, leading to a tubal rupture in REP. These results provide a mechanistic context and cellular milieu leading to tubal rupture, facilitating further study and development of therapeutics for REP in early pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the factors associated with trophoblastic infiltration in ampullary pregnancy from the perspective of clinical and pathologic characteristics. Methods: A single‐center, retrospective, clinicopathologic cohort study was conducted in women who were diagnosed with tubal pregnancy and underwent salpingectomy in the International Peace Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital from January 2018 to June 2021. Results: A total of 333 eligible women diagnosed with ampullary pregnancy were included in the analysis. Multivariate logistic analysis showed that preoperative β‐human chorionic gonadotropin greater than 3000 IU/L (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 3.77, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.02–7.03), and vascular remodeling phenomenon (aOR 4.34, 95% CI 2.41–7.83) were positively correlated with the infiltration of extravillous trophoblasts into serosa, while presence of chronic inflammation of the fallopian tube was a negatively corellated factor (aOR 0.49, 95% CI 0.29–0.85). Conclusion: The depth of trophoblastic infiltration in tubal pregnancy may be related to the presence of chronic inflammation in the fallopian tube. A tubal pregnancy in a tube with chronic salpingitis is more likely to develop into an abortive ectopic pregnancy; whereas in a fallopian tube without chronic inflammation, the risk of it developing into a ruptured ectopic pregnancy increases. Hence, early identification is needed to properly address this dangerous pregnancy situation. Synopsis: Trophoblastic infiltration of tubal pregnancy may have an association with chronic inflammation of the fallopian tube. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel film containing thymol and carvacrol loaded UiO-66-NH 2 was designed. • Thymol/carvacrol as active compounds were successfully encapsulated in UiO-66-NH 2. • MOFs controlled the release of thymol and carvacrol. • The introduction of MOFs improved the properties of the films. • The film we fabricated is a promising material for active food packaging. In this work, Zirconium-based metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), UiO-66-NH 2 , were designed as loading carriers for thymol and carvacrol and added into chitosan to construct antimicrobial packaging films. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were applied to characterize the films. Besides, we analyzed the physical properties, mechanical performance, hydrophobicity, release behavior, and antimicrobial capacity of the films. It can be clearly seen that the addition of thymol and carvacrol loaded MOFs into chitosan film significantly improved the thermal stability, light barrier properties, tensile strength, and hydrophobicity. Importantly, UiO-66-NH 2 restrained the release rate of thymol and carvacrol compared with pure chitosan film, which endowed efficient antimicrobial capacity against E. coli , S. aureus, and P. citrinum to chitosan films. Overall, the strategy conceived here can be a superior candidate to develop a premium antimicrobial material for active food packaging, which has potential application prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To explore potential factors associated with rapid kidney function decline and new‐onset kidney disease among a Chinese elderly population, and to examine the relationships between baseline serum uric acid (SUA), longitudinal change in SUA and rapid estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decline over 5 years for this Chinese elderly population. Methods: A 5‐year follow‐up study was conducted from 2016 to 2020 in Xiamen City, China; and 2436 elderly people with normal kidney function at baseline was included. The multivariable logistic regressions were used to explore risk factors for rapid eGFR decline and new‐onset kidney disease. Results: The median age of subjects was 65 years, and 38.5% were men. These elderly people experienced a median 5‐year decrease in eGFR of 14.50 mL/min/1.73 m2, and 11.2% of them had developed new‐onset kidney disease after 5‐year follow‐up. Participants with elevated SUA change from the normal group to the hyperuricemia group witnessed the highest decrease of eGFR after a 5‐year follow‐up than other groups. Multivariate analysis found advanced age, female, elevated baseline SUA, elevated SUA change, hypertension and triglyceride–glucose index were risk factors for rapid eGFR decline and new‐onset kidney disease. Conclusion: The Chinese elderly population was more likely to encounter rapid renal function decline and new‐onset kidney disease. A regular test for kidney disease was strongly recommended for these elderly people who were female, with advanced age, with elevated baseline SUA and elevated SUA change; and had high levels of insulin resistance, and blood pressure. The derived findings can offer significant evidence for targeted prevention for the Chinese elderly population. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2022; 22: 968–975. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The removal of epicuticular wax in blueberries heightened the decline in fruit storage quality and aging, emphasizing its pivotal role as a protective shield against external stressors. Examining wax metabolism-associated genes during fruit development and storage revealed consistent expression patterns in VcKCS1 , VcKCS11 , VcLACS8 , VcKCR1 , and the R2R3 MYB transcription factor, VcMYB30, mirroring wax content variations. VcMYB30, localized in the nucleus and displaying transactivation capability through dual-luciferase reporter assay (DLR), further investigations via electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) and transient expression analysis in N. benthamiana leaves confirmed its direct binding to the promoters of four wax genes: VcKCS1 , VcKCS11 , VcLACS8 , and VcKCR1. These findings strongly suggest a positive influence of VcMYB30 on cuticular wax biosynthesis in blueberries, offering a fresh perspective on its role in enhancing wax production and contributing significantly to maintaining fruit quality during storage. • Epicuticular wax contributes to delay the deterioration of blueberry storage quality. • Wax deposition is accompanied with the expression of VcMYB30. • VcMYB30 transcription activates waxy gene expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Normal motor activity of the fallopian tube is critical for human reproduction, and abnormal tubal activity may lead to ectopic pregnancy (EP) or infertility. Progesterone has an inhibitory effect on tubal contraction; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Small-conductance calcium-activated K+ channel 3 (SK3) is abundantly expressed in platelet-derived growth factor receptor α positive (PDGFRα+) cells and was reported to be important for the relaxation of smooth muscle. The present study aims to explore the expression of SK3 in the human fallopian tube and its role in progesterone-induced inhibition of tubal contraction. Methods: We collected specimens of fallopian tubes from patients treated by salpingectomy for EP (EP group) and other benign gynecological diseases (Non-EP group). The expression of SK3 was detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, western blot, immunocytochemistry, and immunohistochemistry analyses. Isometric tension experiments were performed to investigate the role of SK3 in progesterone-induced inhibition of tubal contraction. Results: The baseline amplitude and frequency of human fallopian tube contraction were both statistically lower in the EP group compared with the non-EP group. The expression levels of SK3 in different portions of fallopian tubes from the non-EP group were significantly higher than in those from the EP group. Progesterone had an inhibitory effect on tubal contraction, mainly on the amplitude, in both groups, and SK3 as well as other calcium-activated K+ channels may be involved. SK3-expressing PDGFRα (+) cells were detected in the human fallopian tube. Conclusions: The expression of SK3 is lower in the EP group, and SK3 is involved in the progesterone-induced inhibition of human fallopian tube contraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hypertension is highly prevalent and associated with the elevated risks of cardiovascular diseases, dementia, and physical disabilities among adults. Although the correlation between bilirubin and hypertension has been reported, the observation in quinquagenarian population is scarce. We aimed to examine bilirubin-hypertension association in Guankou Ageing Cohort Study.Methods: Participants ≥ 55 years were recruited and their questionnaires and physical examination data were collected. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression were implemented to assess the hypertension risk. The non-liner dose-response relationships of bilirubin-hypertension were determined by restricted cubic spline (RCS) models. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and multiple factors analysis (MFA) were performed to evaluate the predictive abilities.Results: 1881 eligible participants (male 43.75%, female 56.25%) with the median age of 61.00 (59.00-66.00) were included. The hazard ratio (HR, 95% CI) of serum total bilirubin (STB) and unconjugated bilirubin (UCB) were 1.03 (1.01-1.05) and 1.05 (1.03-1.07), while conjugated bilirubin (CB) showed a weak protective effect with the HR of 0.96 (0.92-0.99), and the associations remained significant in all models. RCS analyses further indicated the similar bidirectional effects of STB and UCB with the cut-off of 12.17 μmol/L and 8.59 μmol/L, while CB exhibited inverse bidirectional dose-response relationship with a cut-off of 3.47 μmol/L. ROC curves and MFA showed baseline STB combined with age, BMI, and waist circumference could well discriminate the low and high of hypertension risk.Conclusions: Our findings suggested the higher levels of total and unconjugated bilirubin were hazardous factors of hypertension, while an inverse effect presented when more bilirubin was conjugated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chinese bayberry is susceptible to decay caused by Penicillium citrinum infection, which will cause food safety problems. Negative air ion (NAI) is a novel type of non-thermal microbicidal technology. This study presented NAI treatment's inhibitory effect and antimicrobial mechanism on P. citrinum isolated from Chinese bayberry fruit. The results indicated that NAI treatment had the optimal inhibitory effect on P. citrinum. P. citrinum cell membrane appeared to have visible wrinkles and damage after NAI treatment, which was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The contents of malondialdehyde (MDA), relative conductivity, soluble protein, soluble carbohydrate, nucleic acid leakage, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in the culture medium increased obviously, which indicated that the membrane permeability of P. citrinum increased. With the laser confocal assay, NAI increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and caused oxidative damage to membrane lipids. The membrane lipidomics of P. citrinum hyphae was determined by LC-MS. The results revealed that NAI treatment can hydrolyze the glycerophospholipid into phosphatidic acid (PA) and lysophosphatidylinositol (LPI). Besides, the results of energy metabolism illustrated that NAI treatment reduced the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and energy charge of P. citrinum hyphae. Overall, the microbicidal effect of NAI consisted of two pathways: 1) NAI induced the accumulation of ROS and damaged the membrane structures; 2) NAI reduced mitochondrial membrane potential and caused energy metabolism disorders. In addition, the storage experiment proved that NAI could maintain the quality of Chinese bayberry by inhibiting microbial growth and delaying fruit decay. Hence, NAI hold promises as a potential low-temperature sterilization method for fruit and vegetable storage. • Negative air ions (NAI) had obvious microbicidal effect on Penicillium citrinum. • NAI destroyed the cell membrane to cause lipid peroxidation by accumulating ROS. • The balance of mitochondrial membrane potential was influenced by NAI. • NAI could maintain the quality of Chinese bayberry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• 1-MCP and 1-MCP + hot air (HA) delayed the softening of postharvest nectarine. • HA and 1-MCP+HA promoted anthocyanin accumulation of postharvest nectarine. • This side effect of 1-MCP on anthocyanins biosynthesis was counteracted by HA. • The 1-MCP+HA treatment maintained a better commercial quality of nectarine. The effects of 1-MCP, hot air (HA), and 1-MCP+HA treatments on softening and anthocyanin biosynthesis in nectarines during storage at 25 °C for 8 d were investigated. The results showed that 1-MCP and 1-MCP+HA treatments maintained the firmness and cell wall contents and reduced the activities of cell wall-modifying enzymes, including polygalacturonase, β-galactosidase (β-GAL), cellulase, and pectin methylesterase (PME) in nectarines. Furthermore, transmission electron microscopy of the cell walls showed that 1-MCP and 1-MCP+HA treatments maintained their structural integrity. HA and 1-MCP+HA treatments stimulated the accumulation of anthocyanins and accelerated the reddening of the flesh, possibly through increased activity of enzymes, including flavanone 3-hydroxylase, dihydroflavonol 4-reductase, and uridine diphosphate flavonoid 3-O-glucosyltransferase. Collectively, our results may shed new light on optimizing 1-MCP application for delaying softening of fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The continuous growth of the world's population has driven the increased demand for fresh fruits and vegetables. Most postharvest fruits and vegetables are susceptible to quality loss and diseases during transport and storage. Numerous studies targeting the preservation of postharvest fruits and vegetables have hitherto been carried out. The processing of plant-derived food unavoidably generates a raft of by-products, which tends to be discarded as food waste. However, plant-derived food by-products (PDFBPs) contain abundant high added-value materials, which have the potential to maintain the postharvest quality of fruits and vegetables. This review attempts to summarize materials that are prepared from PDFBPs demonstrating the potential to maintain the quality and extend the shelf-life of postharvest fruits and vegetables. In addition, recent studies investigating the preservation effects of materials obtained from PDFBPs on postharvest fruits and vegetables are comprehensively reviewed. PDFBPs are economical sources of diverse high added-value materials, some of which exhibit the potential to maintain the postharvest quality of fruits and vegetables. These promising materials mainly consist of 1) extracts of bioactive compounds, 2) polysaccharides, oligosaccharides, and proteins, 3) essential oils, and 4) nanoparticles greenly synthesized by extracts. Polysaccharides, oligosaccharides, and proteins could be developed into edible coatings or biodegradable films with excellent oxygen and water barrier properties. Some extracts could be employed as immersion or washing agents to maintain the postharvest quality of fruits and vegetables and improve their resistance against diseases induced by fungal infections. Additionally, extracts, essential oils, and green synthesized nanoparticles could be incorporated into edible coatings or biodegradable films to improve their preservation effects on postharvest fruits and vegetables. [Display omitted] • Plant-derived food by-products (PDFBP) contain abundant high added-value materials. • Materials prepared from PDFBP demonstrate potentials to preserve postharvest fruits and vegetables. • The preservation effects of materials prepared from PDFBP on postharvest fruits and vegetables are summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demand for more functional plant-based proteins has greatly increased. The objective of this study was to provide a systematic understanding of the functional properties and physicochemical features of protein isolates extracted from common pulses. Chickpea protein (ChPI) was much less soluble compared to other extracted proteins. Pigeon pea protein (PiPI) and lab extracted soybean protein (SPI) possessed excellent emulsification capacity and stability of 0.71–0.73 and 0.70–0.71 cm/cm, respectively. Most proteins had foaming capacities greater than 1.20 mL/mL, except for ChPI. Lentil protein (LPI-W), pea protein, and PiPI showed greater water absorption capacity of 4.9, 3.5, and 3.6 g/g than other proteins and good oil absorption capacity. Pigeon pea protein had the greatest gelation capacity, with a least gelation concentration of 80 g/L. ChPI had a higher thermal denaturation peak temperature (169 °C) than the other proteins (145–154 °C). Commercial SPI was much less functional compared to the lab extracted SPI, which was due to intensive protein denaturation during commercial processing. The amino acid profiles, SDS-PAGE patterns, secondary structure composition, and relative surface hydrophobicity were analyzed to help elucidate the functional features. This study provides useful information in selecting appropriate protein sources to achieve more desirable functional applications. • Pigeon pea and soybean proteins had better emulsification properties. • Pigeon pea protein had the best gelation property. • Chickpea protein had higher denaturation temperature than others. • Beta sheet was the dominant secondary structure in all the proteins. • Lentil and pigeon pea proteins presented more desirable overall functionality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endometriosis is a gynecological disease related to menstruation that affects nearly 10% of reproductive-age women. However, so far, there are no reliable diagnostic biomarkers for endometriosis, causing a delay in diagnosis of 6.7 ± 6.2 years. Menstrual blood is a non-invasive source of endometrial tissue that can be analyzed for biomarkers of endometriosis. In this study, menstrual blood samples were collected from women with (n = 8) and without (n = 8) endometriosis. Data Independent Acquisition (DIA)-based mass spectrometry and bioinformatic analysis were used to quantify and identify differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) using the thresholds of fold change >1.5 and P value <0.05. A total of 95 DEPs were identified in menstrual blood from women with endometriosis compared to women without endometriosis, of which 64 were up-regulated and 31 were down-regulated. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were used to functionally annotate DEPs. Protein−protein interaction (PPI) network analysis was then conducted to identify hub genes and the MCODE plugin placed CXCL1, CXCL3, CXCL5, CCL18, and IL1RN in the most significant cluster network. The expression of the above candidate proteins was confirmed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), among which CXCL5 and IL1RN protein expression was increased in patients with endometriosis, indicating that CXCL5 and IL1RN in menstrual blood may be useful biomarkers to diagnose endometriosis from non-invasive samples. Endometriosis is a common gynecological disease that causes discomfort in many women. Unfortunately, the diagnosis of endometriosis is frequently delayed due to a lack of reliable non-invasive biomarkers. To our knowledge, this is the first time that DIA-MS was used to characterize the proteome and identify the differentially expressed proteins in menstrual blood from women with endometriosis. The results, as confirmed by ELISA, showed that CXCL5 and IL1RN protein expression is significantly increased in patients with endometriosis, indicating that these proteins can be used as biomarkers for endometriosis. This study contributes to the identification of putative endometriosis biomarkers from non-invasive samples and lays the groundwork for future research into the roles of CXCL5 and IL1RN in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. [Display omitted] • DIA technique is applied to characterize the proteome in menstrual blood from patients with endometriosis for the first time. • A total of 95 DEPs were identified in menstrual blood from women with and without endometriosis. • CXCL5 and IL1RN expression are confirmed to be elevated and can potentially be the non-invasive biomarkers for endometriosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoarthritis (OA) is an age-related joint disease in which inflammation and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation play a crucial role in the destruction of articular cartilage. Secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG), the main lignan in wholegrain flaxseed, which has been reported to remarkably suppress inflammation and oxidative stress, may have potential therapeutic value in OA. In this study, the effect and mechanism of SDG against cartilage degeneration were verified in the destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM) and collagen-induced (CIA) arthritis models and interleukin-1β (IL-1β)-stimulated osteoarthritis chondrocyte models. From our experiments, SDG treatment downregulated the expression of pro-inflammatory factors induced by IL-1β in vitro, including inducible nitric oxide synthase (INOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), and interleukin 6 (IL-6). Additionally, SDG promoted the expression of collagen II (COL2A1) and SRY-related high-mobility-group-box gene 9(SOX9), while suppressing the expression of a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 5(ADAMTS5) and matrix metalloproteinases 13(MMP13), which leads to catabolism. Consistently, in vivo, SDG has been identified to have chondroprotective effects in DMM-induced and collagen-induced arthritis models. Mechanistically, SDG exerted its anti-inflammation and anti-ECM degradation effects by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway and inhibiting the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway. In conclusion, SDG ameliorates the progression of OA via the Nrf2/NF-κB pathway, which indicates that SDG may have therapeutic potential for OA. [Display omitted] • SDG suppressed inflammation and the degradation of extracellular matrix in osteoarthritis. • SDG has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. • SDG alleviated the development of cartilage degeneration by inhibiting NF-κB pathway and activating Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Public access of automated external defibrillator (AED) is an important public health strategy for improving survival of cardiac arrest. Major metropolitan cities in China are increasingly investing and implementing public access defibrillator programs, but the effectiveness of these programs remains unclear. This study aims to evaluate the public accessibility of AED in Shanghai, a major metropolitan city in China.Methods: From July 1 to September 30, 2018, all AED locations indicated by AED Access Map Apps were visited and investigated in three most densely distributing areas of AED (Huangpu District, Xuhui District, and Central Area of the Pudong New District) in Shanghai. Two AED Access Map APPs were used to identify the location of AEDs. Characteristics of and the barriers to access, the AED sites were recorded. Awareness and skills of first aid and AED among on-site staff of the AED installation sites were evaluated.Results: A total of 283 sites were marked on two AED Apps. One hundred and seventy (60%) locations were accessible, and 142 (50%) were actually with AEDs installed. Among those AED installed sites, 112 (79%) were completely identifiable to the information on the maps, 20 (14%) were inconsistent and 10 (7%) were inaccurate on the maps. Ninety-four (66%) AEDs had visible signs and information around the location, 7 (5%) AEDs had signs outside of the location, and 107 (75%) sites had educational instructions. In addition, 230 individuals who were around the AED site were interviewed. Among them, 79 (34%) had good knowledge of AED. After shown the picture of AED, 112 (49%) knew whether there was AED in the site, and 108 (47%) knew the AED's location. Eighty-seven (38%) staff have received first aid training, and among them 26 (30%) reported that they had skills in operating the AED.Conclusions: Public placement and accessibility of AEDs, related public signs and information on AED, and staff's awareness about AED were not optimal in Shanghai. Continuing efforts should be made to improve public accessibility and public awareness, knowledge, and user skills of AED. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon fiber (CF) is a flexible shielding material with excellent electrical conductivity, thermal stability and mechanical properties, which is crucial to solve electromagnetic pollution problems. However, its application in green electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding is hampered due to high secondary reflection. Herein, we proposed a method to selectively grow CNT cluster arrays on the CF surface for tunable green EMI shielding and microwave absorbing. The density of CNT cluster arrays can be manipulated by controlling of CF surface functional groups in the preparation route of metal-organic framework derived Co-doped CNTs. The CF/CNTs cluster array composites exhibit excellent electromagnetic wave absorbing performance, with an effective absorption bandwidth of 4.4 GHz with a matching thickness of 1.38 mm, which can be extended to full frequency band from 2 to 18 GHz through metastructure design. The green EM shielding index is greater than 12 in the whole frequency range from 2 to 18 GHz, with the maximum value up to 351. The strategy developed here provides a valuable guide for the preparation of electromagnetic functional materials with multilevel hierarchical structure. [Display omitted] • A novel method to selectively grow CNT cluster arrays on CF surface is proposed. • The CF/CNT cluster arrays exhibits an ultrathin absorption with EAB of 4.4 GHz. • High-efficiency green EMI shielding is realized with g s > 12 covering full frequency band. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the characteristics and risk factors for locoregional recurrence in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) treated with intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT). Methods: The clinical diagnosis and treatment data of 195 patients with NPC treated with IMRT from March 2005 to May 2010 (including 9, 24, 70, and 92 cases of stage I, II, III, and IV disease, respectively, according to the 7th edition American Joint Committee on Cancer staging criteria) were retrospectively analyzed. The Kaplan-Meier method was used for survival analysis, and logistic regression was used to conduct univariate and multivariate analyses. Results: The 5-year recurrence rate was 10.8%, and the 5-year local and regional recurrence rates were 8.7% and 3.4%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that the short axis of the cervical lymph nodes (≥3 cm) was an influencing factor for regional lymph node recurrence after IMRT. Conclusion: In-field and high-dose region failures were the main patterns associated with local-regional recurrence, and nasopharyngeal recurrence was most commonly detected. Newly diagnosed patients with large cervical lymph nodes (short diameter ≥3 cm) should be carefully followed up considering regional lymph node recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Potential bioaccessibility of whole wheat bread, cookie, and pasta was studied. • Phenolic acid concentrations changed mostly within the first hour of gastric and intestinal digestions. • Probiotic fermentation released additional phenolic acids from digestive residues. • Phenolic profiles are better estimated by digestion methods than chemical extractions. Health benefits of whole wheat products are partially attributed by their unique phenolic compounds. This study investigated effect of simulated gastrointestinal digestion and probiotic fermentation on releasing of phenolic acids from whole wheat foods (bread, cookie, and pasta). Kinetics results showed that more phenolic acids were released within the first hour of gastric and intestinal digestions compared to the prolonged digestion. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, a common probiotic strain, released additional phenolic acids from the digestive residues during fermentation. Simulated digestion released more soluble trans -ferulic acid than chemical extraction in breads (17.69 to 102.71 µg/g), cookie (15.81 to 54.43 µg/g), and pasta (4.88 to 28.39 µg/g). Phenolic acid composition of whole wheat products appeared to be better estimated by digestion methods than the chemical extraction method. The unique insoluble-bound nature and fermentability of wheat phenolic acids may lead to a mechanistic understanding of whole grain consumption for potential colorectal cancer prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The rd1 mouse is a relevant model for studying the mechanisms of photoreceptor degeneration in retinitis pigmentosa. Treatment with ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) in combination with brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is known to rescue photoreceptors in cultured rd1 retinal explants. To shed light on the underlying mechanisms, we studied the effects of 9 days (starting at postnatal day 2) in vitro CNTF+BDNF treatment on the endogenous production of CNTF, BDNF, fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2), or the activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), Akt and cAMP-response-element-binding protein (CREB) in retinal explants. In rd1 explants, CNTF+BDNF decreased the number of TUNEL-positive photoreceptors. The treatment also increased endogenous rd1 levels of CNTF and BDNF, but lowered the level of FGF2 expression in rd1 explants. When wild-type explants were treated, endogenous CNTF was similarly increased, while BDNF and FGF2 levels remained unaffected. In addition, treatment of rd1 retinas strongly increased the phosphorylation of ERK, Akt and CREB. In treated wild-type explants, the same parameters were either unchanged (ERK) or decreased (Akt and CREB). The results suggest a role for Akt, ERK and CREB in conveying the neuroprotective effect of CNTF+BDNF treatment in rd1 retinal explants. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]