Fixed-time synchronization(FTS)of delayed memristor-based neural networks(MNNs)with discontinuous activations is studied in this paper.Both continuous and discontinuous activations are considered forMNNs.And the mixed...Fixed-time synchronization(FTS)of delayed memristor-based neural networks(MNNs)with discontinuous activations is studied in this paper.Both continuous and discontinuous activations are considered forMNNs.And the mixed delays which are closer to reality are taken into the system.Besides,two kinds of control schemes are proposed,including feedback and adaptive control strategies.Based on some lemmas,mathematical inequalities and the designed controllers,a few synchronization criteria are acquired.Moreover,the upper bound of settling time(ST)which is independent of the initial values is given.Finally,the feasibility of our theory is attested by simulation examples.展开更多
Arsenic in drinking water is a worldwide health problem that is associated with cardiovascular disease, but the cause is currently unknown. In order to examine whether arsenic affects vasomotor tone in blood vessels, ...Arsenic in drinking water is a worldwide health problem that is associated with cardiovascular disease, but the cause is currently unknown. In order to examine whether arsenic affects vasomotor tone in blood vessels, we investigated the effect of arsenic on agonist-induced vasorelaxation and vasoconstriction using the isolated rat aortic rings in in vitro organ bath system. Treatment with inorganic arsenite (AsⅢ) inhibited acetylcholine-induced relaxation of aortic rings by inhibiting production of nitric oxide in endothelium.展开更多
BACKGROUND:Point-of-care ultrasound(POCUS)has become increasingly integrated into the practice of emergency medicine.A common application is the extended focused assessment with sonography in trauma(eFAST)exam.The Ame...BACKGROUND:Point-of-care ultrasound(POCUS)has become increasingly integrated into the practice of emergency medicine.A common application is the extended focused assessment with sonography in trauma(eFAST)exam.The American College of Emergency Physicians has guidelines regarding the scope of ultrasound in the emergency department and the appropriate documentation.The objective of this study was to conduct a review of performed,documented and billed eFAST ultrasounds on trauma activation patients.METHODS:This was a retrospective review of all trauma activation patients during a 10-month period at an academic level-one trauma center.A list comparing all trauma activations was crossreferenced with a list of all billed eFAST scans.Medical records were reviewed to determine whether an eFAST was indicated,performed,and appropriately documented.RESULTS:We found that 1,507 of 1,597 trauma patients had indications for eFAST,but 396(27%)of these patients did not have a billed eFAST.Of these 396 patients,87(22%)had documentation in the provider note that an eFAST was performed but there was no separate procedure note.The remaining 309(78%)did not have any documentation of the eFAST in the patient’s chart although an eFAST was recorded and reviewed during ultrasound quality assurance.CONCLUSION:A significant proportion of trauma patients had eFAST exams performed but were not documented or billed.Lack of documentation was multifactorial.Emergency ultrasound programs require appropriate reimbursement to support training,credentialing,equipment,quality assurance,and device maintenance.Our study demonstrates a significant absence of adequate documentation leading to potential revenue loss for an emergency ultrasound program.展开更多
Durian rind wastes are an important raw material for activated carbon production due to their renewable sources and low-cost materials.The efficiency of increasing surface area and the quantity of oxygen groups on the...Durian rind wastes are an important raw material for activated carbon production due to their renewable sources and low-cost materials.The efficiency of increasing surface area and the quantity of oxygen groups on the surface of activated carbon were studied for the preparation of activated carbon.The preparation of activated carbon has been studied with the different methods as follows:activation by acid,activation by base,hydrothermal and activation by acid,and hydrothermal and activation by base.The results showed that hydrothermal and activation by acid had high iodine number which was chosen to determine the optimum condition for activated carbon preparation.The optimum condition for preparation of durian rind activated carbon was studied by Box-Behnken design.Solid/water ratio,solid/acid ratio and temperature were chosen as the important parameters for achieving the optimum reaction condition.The reaction products were analyzed by iodine number.Based on the results,the optimum condition for preparation of durian rind activated carbon was predicted using RSM.The maximum iodine number of 626.47 mg/g was expected at the optimum condition:solid/water ratio(1:175,g/mL),solid/acid ratio(1:23,g/mL)and temperature(500℃).The preparation of durian rind activated carbon at the optimal condition was carried;the percentages of iodine number achieved(666.73±6 mg/g)were close to the maximum predicted value(666.73 mg/g),thus verifying the model.At the optimum condition,the functional group on surface of durian rind activated carbon was characterized by FT-IR.The result showed that the oxygen content on surface was increased in the form of carbonyl and sulfonyl group.展开更多
The fixed-time synchronization and preassigned-time synchronization are investigated for a class of quaternion-valued neural networks with time-varying delays and discontinuous activation functions. Unlike previous ef...The fixed-time synchronization and preassigned-time synchronization are investigated for a class of quaternion-valued neural networks with time-varying delays and discontinuous activation functions. Unlike previous efforts that employed separation analysis and the real-valued control design, based on the quaternion-valued signum function and several related properties, a direct analytical method is proposed here and the quaternion-valued controllers are designed in order to discuss the fixed-time synchronization for the relevant quaternion-valued neural networks. In addition, the preassigned-time synchronization is investigated based on a quaternion-valued control design, where the synchronization time is preassigned and the control gains are finite. Compared with existing results, the direct method without separation developed in this article is beneficial in terms of simplifying theoretical analysis, and the proposed quaternion-valued control schemes are simpler and more effective than the traditional design, which adds four real-valued controllers. Finally, two numerical examples are given in order to support the theoretical results.展开更多
Preparation of Zr2Al3C4-Al2O3 in situ composites was investigated by self-propagating high-temperature synthesis(SHS)involving both aluminothermic reduction of ZrO2 and chemical activation of PTFE(Teflon).The starting...Preparation of Zr2Al3C4-Al2O3 in situ composites was investigated by self-propagating high-temperature synthesis(SHS)involving both aluminothermic reduction of ZrO2 and chemical activation of PTFE(Teflon).The starting materials included ZrO2,Al,carbon black and PTFE.In addition to the conventional SHS method,the experiments were conducted by a chemical-oven SHS(COSHS)route to thermally assist the synthesis reaction.The threshold amount of 2%(mass fraction)PTFE was required to induce self-sustaining combustion.When the conventional SHS scheme was utilized,due to low combustion temperatures between 1152 and 1272°C and insufficient reaction time,the dominant carbide forming in the composite was ZrC instead of Zr2Al3C4.On the other hand,the COSHS technique increased the combustion temperature of the reactant compact to about 1576°C,lengthened the high-temperature duration for the reaction,and prevented Al vapor from escaping away.As a consequence,Zr2Al3C4-Al2O3 composites with a small amount of Zr3Al3C5 were obtained.The microstructure of the COSHS-derived product showed that plate-like Zr2Al3C4 grains were about 2μm in thickness and 10-30μm in length,and most of them were closely stacked into a laminated configuration.展开更多
As a vital energy resource and raw material for many industrial products,syngas(CO and H_(2))is of great significance.Dry reforming of methane(DRM)is an important approach to producing syngas(with a hydrogen-to-carbon...As a vital energy resource and raw material for many industrial products,syngas(CO and H_(2))is of great significance.Dry reforming of methane(DRM)is an important approach to producing syngas(with a hydrogen-to-carbon-monoxide ratio of 1:1 in principle)from methane and carbon dioxide,with a lower operational cost as compared to other reforming techniques.However,many pure metallic catalysts used in DRM face deactivation issues due to coke formation or sintering of the metal particles.A systematic search for highly efficient metallic catalysts,which reduce the reaction barriers for the rate-determining steps and resist carbon deposition,is urgently needed.Nickel is a typical low-cost transition metal for activating the C–H bond in methane.In this work,we applied a two-step workflow to search for nickel-based bimetallic catalysts with doping metals M(M-Ni)by combining density functional theory(DFT)calculations and machine learning(ML).We focus on the two critical steps in DRM—CH_(4) and CO_(2) direct activations.We used DFT and slab models for the Ni(111)facet to explore the relevant reaction pathways and constructed a data set containing structural and energetic information for representative M-Ni systems.We used this dataset to train ML models with chemical-knowledge-based features and predicted CH_(4) and CO_(2) dissociation energies and barriers,which revealed the composition–activity relationships of the bimetallic catalysts.We also used these models to rank the predicted catalytic performance of candidate systems to demonstrate the applicability of ML for catalyst screening.We emphasized that ML ranking models would be more valuable than regression models in high-throughput screenings.Finally,we used our trained model to screen 12 unexplored M-Ni systems and showed that the DFT-computed energies and barriers are very close to the ML-predicted values for top candidates,validating the robustness of the trained model.展开更多
Downregulation of the inwardly rectifying potassium channel Kir4.1 is a key step for inducing retinal Müller cell activation and interaction with other glial cells,which is involved in retinal ganglion cell apopt...Downregulation of the inwardly rectifying potassium channel Kir4.1 is a key step for inducing retinal Müller cell activation and interaction with other glial cells,which is involved in retinal ganglion cell apoptosis in glaucoma.Modulation of Kir4.1 expression in Müller cells may therefore be a potential strategy for attenuating retinal ganglion cell damage in glaucoma.In this study,we identified seven predicted phosphorylation sites in Kir4.1 and constructed lentiviral expression systems expressing Kir4.1 mutated at each site to prevent phosphorylation.Following this,we treated Müller glial cells in vitro and in vivo with the m Glu R I agonist DHPG to induce Kir4.1 or Kir4.1 Tyr^(9)Asp overexpression.We found that both Kir4.1 and Kir4.1 Tyr^(9)Asp overexpression inhibited activation of Müller glial cells.Subsequently,we established a rat model of chronic ocular hypertension by injecting microbeads into the anterior chamber and overexpressed Kir4.1 or Kir4.1 Tyr^(9)Asp in the eye,and observed similar results in Müller cells in vivo as those seen in vitro.Both Kir4.1 and Kir4.1 Tyr^(9)Asp overexpression inhibited Müller cell activation,regulated the balance of Bax/Bcl-2,and reduced the m RNA and protein levels of pro-inflammatory factors,including interleukin-1βand tumor necrosis factor-α.Furthermore,we investigated the regulatory effects of Kir4.1 and Kir4.1 Tyr^(9)Asp overexpression on the release of pro-inflammatory factors in a co-culture system of Müller glial cells and microglia.In this co-culture system,we observed elevated adenosine triphosphate concentrations in activated Müller cells,increased levels of translocator protein(a marker of microglial activation),and elevated interleukin-1βm RNA and protein levels in microglia induced by activated Müller cells.These changes could be reversed by Kir4.1 and Kir4.1 Tyr^(9)Asp overexpression in Müller cells.Kir4.1 overexpression,but not Kir4.1 Tyr^(9)Asp overexpression,reduced the number of proliferative and migratory microglia induced by activated Müller cells.Collectively,these results suggest that the tyrosine residue at position nine in Kir4.1 may serve as a functional modulation site in the retina in an experimental model of glaucoma.Kir4.1 and Kir4.1 Tyr^(9)Asp overexpression attenuated Müller cell activation,reduced ATP/P2X receptor–mediated interactions between glial cells,inhibited microglial activation,and decreased the synthesis and release of pro-inflammatory factors,consequently ameliorating retinal ganglion cell apoptosis in glaucoma.展开更多
To elucidate the effect of calcite-regulated activated carbon(AC)structure on low-temperature denitrification performance of SCR catalysts,this work prepared a series of Mn-Ce/De-AC-xCaCO_(3)(x is the calcite content ...To elucidate the effect of calcite-regulated activated carbon(AC)structure on low-temperature denitrification performance of SCR catalysts,this work prepared a series of Mn-Ce/De-AC-xCaCO_(3)(x is the calcite content in coal)catalysts were prepared by the incipient wetness impregnation method,followed by acid washing to remove calcium-containing minerals.Comprehensive characterization and low-temperature denitrification tests revealed that calcite-induced structural modulation of coal-derived AC significantly enhances catalytic activity.Specifically,NO conversion increased from 88.3%of Mn-Ce/De-AC to 91.7%of Mn-Ce/De-AC-1CaCO_(3)(210℃).The improved SCR denitrification activity results from the enhancement of physicochemical properties including higher Mn^(4+)content and Ce^(4+)/Ce^(3+)ratio,an abundance of chemisorbed oxygen and acidic sites,which could strengthen the SCR reaction pathways(richer NH_(3)activated species and bidentate nitrate active species).Therefore,NO removal is enhanced.展开更多
BACKGROUND:Hemiplegia,a prevalent stroke-related condition,is often studied for motor dysfunction;however,spasticity remains under-researched.Abnormal muscle tone significantly hinders hemiplegic patients’walking rec...BACKGROUND:Hemiplegia,a prevalent stroke-related condition,is often studied for motor dysfunction;however,spasticity remains under-researched.Abnormal muscle tone significantly hinders hemiplegic patients’walking recovery.OBJECTIVE:To determine whether early suspension-protected training with a personal assistant machine for stroke patients enhances walking ability and prevents muscle spasms.METHODS:Thirty-two early-stage stroke patients from Shenzhen University General Hospital and the China Rehabilitation Research Center were randomly assigned to the experimental group(n=16)and the control group(n=16).Both groups underwent 4 weeks of gait training under the suspension protection system for 30 minutes daily,5 days a week.The experimental group used the personal assistant machine during training.Three-dimensional gait analysis(using the Cortex motion capture system),Brunnstrom staging,Fugl-Meyer Assessment for lower limb motor function,Fugl-Meyer balance function,and the modified Ashworth Scale were evaluated within 1 week before the intervention and after 4 weeks of intervention.RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:After the 4-week intervention,all outcome measures showed significant changes in each group.The experimental group had a small but significant increase in the modified Ashworth Scale score(P<0.05,d=|0.15|),while the control group had a large significant increase(P<0.05,d=|1.48|).The experimental group demonstrated greater improvements in walking speed(16.5 to 38.44 cm/s,P<0.05,d=|4.01|),step frequency(46.44 to 64.94 steps/min,P<0.05,d=|2.32|),stride length(15.50 to 29.81 cm,P<0.05,d=|3.44|),and peak hip and knee flexion(d=|1.82|to|2.17|).After treatment,the experimental group showed significantly greater improvements than the control group in walking speed(38.44 vs.26.63 cm/s,P<0.05,d=|2.75|),stride length,peak hip and knee flexion(d=|1.31|to|1.45|),step frequency(64.94 vs.59.38 steps/min,P<0.05,d=|0.85|),and a reduced support phase(bilateral:24.31%vs.28.38%,P<0.05,d=|0.88|;non-paretic:66.19%vs.70.13%,P<0.05,d=|0.94|).For early hemiplegia,personal assistant machine-assisted gait training under the suspension protection system helps establish a correct gait pattern,prevents muscle spasms,and improves motor function.展开更多
Passiflora incarnata L.,commonly known as passionflower,is traditionally cultivated as an ornamental plant but has demonstrated diverse therapeutic potential.Its pharmacological effects are attributed to bioactive com...Passiflora incarnata L.,commonly known as passionflower,is traditionally cultivated as an ornamental plant but has demonstrated diverse therapeutic potential.Its pharmacological effects are attributed to bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and alkaloids,which influence multiple biological pathways.This review aims to summarise and critically analyse recent findings on the pharmacological properties of Passiflora incarnata L.,focusing on its neuropsychiatric,antioxidant,antimicrobial,and anticancer activities.A targeted literature search was conducted in PubMed,Scopus,Web of Science,and Google Scholar for peer-reviewed publications between 2000 to 2025.Relevant articles were screened,and a more appropriate article related to the objective of the review was selected.Some classical papers are also cited as per the requirement of the topic.Passiflora incarnata L.showed multifunctional medicinal properties with various applications in neuropsychiatry,oxidative stress management,antimicrobial agent,and as an anticancer agent.The U.S.Food and Drug Administration categorizes passionflower extracts as“generally recognized as safe”.However,most evidence remains preclinical,with methodological variation limiting generalisation.Standardised formulation,robust clinical trials,and in-depth in vivo studies are essential to establish its therapeutic relevance and safety in modern medicine.展开更多
Rationale:This case report describes a couple with recurrent fertilization failure despite undergoing multiple cycles of intracytoplasmic sperm injection(ICSI).The principal clinical concern was suspected oocyte activ...Rationale:This case report describes a couple with recurrent fertilization failure despite undergoing multiple cycles of intracytoplasmic sperm injection(ICSI).The principal clinical concern was suspected oocyte activation deficiency(OAD),in which fertilization is impeded due to the oocyte’s inability to initiate embryogenesis,commonly attributed to inadequate intracellular calcium(Ca^(2+))release following sperm injection.Patient concerns:The couple repeatedly experienced complete or near-complete fertilization failure in previous ICSI cycles,raising suspicion of an underlying oocyte activation defect.Diagnosis:Based on the repeated absence of fertilization post-ICSI and clinical history,a diagnosis of suspected OAD leading to recurrent ICSI fertilization failure was considered.Interventions:Artificial oocyte activation(AOA)using the calcium ionophore A23187 was performed.After ICSI,unfertilized oocytes were exposed to the ionophore to induce Ca^(2+)influx,simulating physiological calcium oscillations essential for oocyte activation.The efficacy of intervention was evaluated through subsequent embryonic development,morphological grading,and chromosomal integrity.Outcomes:Following AOA treatment,successful oocyte activation occurred,resulting in the formation of high-grade embryos with normal developmental progression.Chromosomal analysis revealed no detectable abnormalities,indicating genomic stability.Lessons:Calcium ionophore–mediated AOA may serve as an effective adjunct in cases of recurrent ICSI failure attributed to OAD.This case highlights the importance of individualized therapeutic strategies in assisted reproduction;however,further research is needed to refine protocols,validate broader clinical efficacy,and assess long-term safety,including potential epigenetic risks.展开更多
BACKGROUND Postoperative delirium(POD)is a common and serious complication in surgical patients,particularly older adults.Alterations in cholinergic function have been implicated in its pathophysiology.AIM To evaluate...BACKGROUND Postoperative delirium(POD)is a common and serious complication in surgical patients,particularly older adults.Alterations in cholinergic function have been implicated in its pathophysiology.AIM To evaluate the association between preoperative serum cholinesterase(ChE)activity—specifically butyrylcholinesterase(BuChE)and acetylcholinesterase(AChE)—and the risk of POD in adult surgical patients in a meta-analysis.METHODS A systematic search was conducted in PubMed,EMBASE,and Web of Science up to March 28,2025 for studies reporting preoperative serum BuChE or AChE activity in relation to subsequent POD incidence.Standardized mean differences(SMDs)and odds ratios(ORs)with 95%confidence intervals(CIs)were pooled using random-effects models.Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were performed based on follow-up duration and analytic models.RESULTS Thirteen studies(n=2730 patients)were included.Patients who developed POD had significantly lower preoperative BuChE activity than those who did not(SMD=-0.28;95%CI:-0.39 to-0.16;I²=18%).Higher BuChE activity was associated with a reduced risk of POD(OR per 100 unit increment=0.97;95%CI:0.95-0.99;I2=0%).In contrast,pooled AChE activity did not differ significantly between POD and non-POD groups(SMD=-0.25;95%CI:-0.53 to 0.03;P=0.08;I2=80%),and the ORs per 1 unit increment in AChE activity were not statistically significant(OR=0.98;95%CI:0.95-1.01).CONCLUSION Lower preoperative serum BuChE activity is associated with an increased risk of POD in adults undergoing surgery.BuChE activity may serve as a potential preoperative biomarker for POD risk stratification.展开更多
Conductive materials(CM)can improve methane production(MP)efficiency in many methanogenic systems.However,several types of CM exist,and there are uncertainties regarding whether they all improve MP efficiency to the s...Conductive materials(CM)can improve methane production(MP)efficiency in many methanogenic systems.However,several types of CM exist,and there are uncertainties regarding whether they all improve MP efficiency to the same extent and modulate microbial communities in a similar way.To investigate that,different microbial enrichments with and without activated carbon(AC),magnetite(Mag),and zeolites(Zeo)(at 0.5 g/L)were developed.MP profiles and microbial composition changes were compared among enrichments.The behavior of all enrichments was different,although the initial inoculum sludge was the same.Lag phase duration was lower in AC enrichment,while the complete conversion of butyrate to methane was faster in Mag enrichment.Syntrophomonas was the most abundant bacterial genus in all enrichments,but changes in the methanogenic community were evident.Acetoclastic methanogens were more diverse in Mag enrichment,with microorganisms assigned to Methanosarcina and Methanothrix gener1,but Methanothrix was the only acetoclastic methanogen in the other enrichments.On the other hand,different species of hydrogenotrophic methanogens prevailed in distinct enrichments.The metatranscriptomics results revealed that the dominant mechanism of interspecies electron transfer in the AC enrichment utilized hydrogen as the electron carrier,and no evidences of direct interspecies electron transfer(DIET)could be found.These results showed how different CM modulate microbial communities and affect MP efficiency through mechanisms that do not necessarily involve DIET or mediation via CM.展开更多
Objective Stroke is the third leading cause of death worldwide,with the highest incidence in Asia,particularly in China,where smoking remains a major risk factor.The smoking prevalence in China is similar to that in A...Objective Stroke is the third leading cause of death worldwide,with the highest incidence in Asia,particularly in China,where smoking remains a major risk factor.The smoking prevalence in China is similar to that in Asia.Whether the risk estimates for smoking-related stroke in China and all Asian countries are still unknown which is worth evaluating.Thus,this study aims to compare the Relative Risk(RR)of smoking-attributed stroke among the Chinese and Asian populations.Methods A literature search was conducted from the inception to September 10,2022.Studies meeting the criteria were included.The articles were screened,and related information was extracted.Pooled RRs stratified by smoking status and sex were analyzed,including subgroup analyses for China,other Asian countries,and Asia overall.Finally,publication bias and sensitivity analyses were conducted.Results Thirty-seven articles on the Chinese population and 15 on other Asian populations were included,with a mean Newcastle-Ottawa scale(NOS)score of 7.25.About ever smokers,there had no statistical difference existed in both sexes and females between China and other Asian countries,while the RR of males in other Asian countries[2.31(1.38,3.86)]was higher than that in China[1.21(1.15,1.26)];further subgroup analysis indicated that other Asian countries had higher RR[3.76(3.02,4.67)]in the morbidity subgroup.The RRs of both sexes,males and females,between China and the whole of Asia were not statistically different.As for current and former smokers,no meaningful statistical difference was observed in the pooled RRs of both sexes,males and females,in China,other Asian countries,and all of Asia.Conclusion The RR of males ever smokers in China was smaller than that in other Asian countries due to the few articles of morbidity subgroup,but had no statistical difference with the whole of Asia;other groups of ever smokers,current smokers,and former smokers were not statistically significant with other Asian countries or the whole of Asia.展开更多
BACKGROUND Major depressive disorder(MDD)and obesity(OB)are bidirectionally comorbid conditions with common neurobiological underpinnings.However,the neurocognitive mechanisms of their comorbidity remain poorly unders...BACKGROUND Major depressive disorder(MDD)and obesity(OB)are bidirectionally comorbid conditions with common neurobiological underpinnings.However,the neurocognitive mechanisms of their comorbidity remain poorly understood.AIM To examine regional abnormalities in spontaneous brain activity among patients with MDD-OB comorbidity.METHODS This study adopted a regional homogeneity(ReHo)analysis of resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging.The study included 149 hospital patients divided into four groups:Patients experiencing their first episode of drug-naive MDD with OB,patients with MDD without OB,and age-and sex-matched healthy individuals with and without OB.Whole-brain ReHo analysis was conducted using SPM12 software and RESTplus toolkits,with group comparisons via ANOVA and post-hoc tests.Correlations between ReHo values and behavioral measures were examined.RESULTS ANOVA revealed significant whole-brain ReHo differences among the four groups in four key regions:The left middle temporal gyrus(MTG.L),right cuneus,left precuneus,and left thalamus.Post-hoc analyses confirmed pairwise differences between all groups across these regions(P<0.05).OB was associated with ReHo alterations in the MTG.L,right cuneus,and left thalamus,whereas abnormalities in the precuneus suggested synergistic pathological mechanisms between MDD and OB.Statistically significant correlations were found between the drive and fun-seeking dimensions of the behavioral activation system,as well as behavioral inhibition and the corresponding ReHo values.CONCLUSION Our findings provide novel evidence for the neuroadaptive mechanisms underlying the MDD-OB comorbidity.Further validation could lead to personalized interventions targeting MTG.L hyperactivity and targeting healthy food cues.展开更多
Ruscogenin,a steroidal sapogenin,is primarily derived from the genus Ruscus.It demonstrates a wide range of pharmacological actions that hold substantial promise for therapeutic use.By conducting a comprehensive exami...Ruscogenin,a steroidal sapogenin,is primarily derived from the genus Ruscus.It demonstrates a wide range of pharmacological actions that hold substantial promise for therapeutic use.By conducting a comprehensive examination of electronic databases including PubMed,ScienceDirect,and SciFinder,we identified studies on ruscogenin to date.This review aims at emphasizing the findings related to the bioactivities of ruscogenin,particularly its protective activities in neurological and inflammatory disorders,hemorrhoids,and cancer.Ruscogenin has been demonstrated to possess anti-ulcer,anti-osteoporotic,and skin-lightening properties as a therapeutic agent.It has also been proven effective in managing metabolic disorders by reducing inflammation and improving lipid metabolism,particularly in conditions such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and diabetic nephropathy.Reports indicate that it can prevent acute lung injury by protecting pulmonary endothelial cells from apoptosis and modulating inflammatory cytokines.Additionally,ruscogenin promotes neurological recovery by mitigating oxidative stress.It also shows anti-cancer properties,leading to apoptosis and hindering metastasis,particularly in pancreatic and hepatocellular carcinoma.This review summarizes the potential medical applications of ruscogenin and underscores the need for further research on its mechanisms of action.展开更多
Population aging is one of the common challenges in the current world.As people age,the body’s tissues including cells,and molecules inevitably degrade,and their functions gradually decline,causing various age-relate...Population aging is one of the common challenges in the current world.As people age,the body’s tissues including cells,and molecules inevitably degrade,and their functions gradually decline,causing various age-related diseases like Alzheimer’s disease,osteoporosis,low immunity,glucose and lipid metabolism disorders,and cardiovascular diseases.With the continuous increase of the elderly population,the pressure on the medical industry is increasing.To lower the burden on the medical industry and increase the average age of the elderly,it is vital to explore effective anti-aging materials.Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma(Renshen),as a traditional and precious Chinese medicinal herb,is known as the“king of all herbs”.It is famous for its effects of“tonifying Qi,restoring pulse”(helping with the generation of Qi(the fundamental,vital energy that continuously flows within the body)and the circulation of blood)and strengthening the body,nourishing the spleen and lungs,generating fluids and nourishing blood,calming the mind and improving intelligence.Recently,its anti-aging effect has received increasing attention from modern scientific research.This study summarizes the pharmacological effects of the main active ingredients of Renshen(ginsenosides,polysaccharides,etc.)on resisting aging,including preventing neuroaging,suppressing skin aging,mitigating ovarian aging,inhibiting osteoporosis and arthritis,enhancing the immune system of the elderly,protecting the cardiovascular system,resisting aging-induced fatigue and exerting the anti-tumor effects.Through network pharmacology and molecular docking,the anti-aging active ingredients of Renshen were screened,and the key targets and pathways of anti-aging active ingredients in Renshen were determined.Using network pharmacology,totally 106 drug targets and 3,479 disease targets were screened,and 79 common targets between aging and Renshen were identified.Three core targets were identified in the PPI network,including TNF,AKT1,and IL-1β.Molecular docking was used to obtain further verification.This study emphasizes the potential of Renshen as a source of anti-aging activity,which can be developed into a novel drug for the treatment of age-related diseases.展开更多
Epilepsy is a complex neurological disorder aggravated by chronic neuroinflammation largely driven by reactive astrocytes.These cells promote epileptogenesis through persistent cytokine secretion and glial scar format...Epilepsy is a complex neurological disorder aggravated by chronic neuroinflammation largely driven by reactive astrocytes.These cells promote epileptogenesis through persistent cytokine secretion and glial scar formation.Current antiepileptic drugs remain ineffective in targeting these mechanisms due to limited blood-brain barrier(BBB)permeability and poor astrocytic specificity.A transferrin-functionalized biomimetic nanotherapeutic loaded with resveratrol(RN@RTA)was developed to regulate astrocyte-mediated inflammation by activating sirtuin 1(SIRT1)and suppressing the mitogen-activated protein kinase/nuclear factor Kappalight-chain-enhancer of activated B cells(MAPK/NF-κB)axis.Using in vitro BBB models,primary astrocytes,and a pilocarpine-induced chronic epilepsy mouse model,we evaluated the capacity of RN@RTA to cross the BBB,inhibit inflammatory signaling,and reduce seizure activity.Mechanistic assays included immunoprecipitation of NF-κB complexes,cytokine quantification,RNA sequencing,and histopathological assessments of glial and synaptic markers.RN@RTA achieved 82%uptake by hippocampal astrocytes and significantly reduced Il6,Tnf-α,and Nlrp3 expression.SIRT1 activation disrupted the NF-κB p65/p300 complex,leading to transcriptional repression of inflammatory genes and enhancement of autophagy.In vivo,seizure frequency decreased by 67%,synaptic structure was preserved,and astrogliosis was markedly alleviated.The findings demonstrate a dual regulatory mechanism in which RN@RTA suppresses neuroinflammatory signaling and restores neural homeostasis,offering a promising molecularly targeted approach for refractory epilepsy.展开更多
The January 2022 eruption of Hunga injected unprecedented volumes of water vapor(150 Tg)and modest sulfur dioxide(SO_(2))into the stratosphere,producing accelerated sulfate aerosol formation in the early plume.As the ...The January 2022 eruption of Hunga injected unprecedented volumes of water vapor(150 Tg)and modest sulfur dioxide(SO_(2))into the stratosphere,producing accelerated sulfate aerosol formation in the early plume.As the aerosols gradually spread into the global stratosphere,the role of water vapor,among other factors in the spread and residence time of the sulfate aerosols,remained unclear.We used multisatellite observations to better understand the role of water vapor in the spread and lifetime of Hunga volcanic aerosols.Stratospheric circulation transported the plumes to~26 km within the polar vortices-the Antarctic by August 2022 and the Arctic by January 2023-with the arrival of aerosols lagging behind that of water vapor by months.Even though high injection altitudes(58 km)and strong Brewer-Dobson circulation contributed to prolonging the residence time of aerosols,the water vapor enhanced particle growth and thus accelerated gravitational settling,with the half lifetime of aerosols being 14 months.Our analysis revealed a critical trade-off:after the eruption of the Hunga volcano,an extremely high injection height and strong upward motion slowed the removal of aerosols,but extreme water vapor loading still had a certain impact on the half lifetime of the aerosols.These findings highlight the role of water vapor in the persistence of aerosols from submarine eruptions.展开更多
基金supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China under(Grant Nos.62173175,12026235,12026234,61903170,11805091,61877033,61833005)by 111 Project under Grant B17040+2 种基金by the Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province under Grant Nos.ZR2019BF045,ZR2019MF021,ZR2019QF004by the Project of Shandong Province Higher Educational Science and Technology Program No.J18KA354by the Key Research and Development Project of Shandong Province of China,No.2019GGX101003.
文摘Fixed-time synchronization(FTS)of delayed memristor-based neural networks(MNNs)with discontinuous activations is studied in this paper.Both continuous and discontinuous activations are considered forMNNs.And the mixed delays which are closer to reality are taken into the system.Besides,two kinds of control schemes are proposed,including feedback and adaptive control strategies.Based on some lemmas,mathematical inequalities and the designed controllers,a few synchronization criteria are acquired.Moreover,the upper bound of settling time(ST)which is independent of the initial values is given.Finally,the feasibility of our theory is attested by simulation examples.
文摘Arsenic in drinking water is a worldwide health problem that is associated with cardiovascular disease, but the cause is currently unknown. In order to examine whether arsenic affects vasomotor tone in blood vessels, we investigated the effect of arsenic on agonist-induced vasorelaxation and vasoconstriction using the isolated rat aortic rings in in vitro organ bath system. Treatment with inorganic arsenite (AsⅢ) inhibited acetylcholine-induced relaxation of aortic rings by inhibiting production of nitric oxide in endothelium.
文摘BACKGROUND:Point-of-care ultrasound(POCUS)has become increasingly integrated into the practice of emergency medicine.A common application is the extended focused assessment with sonography in trauma(eFAST)exam.The American College of Emergency Physicians has guidelines regarding the scope of ultrasound in the emergency department and the appropriate documentation.The objective of this study was to conduct a review of performed,documented and billed eFAST ultrasounds on trauma activation patients.METHODS:This was a retrospective review of all trauma activation patients during a 10-month period at an academic level-one trauma center.A list comparing all trauma activations was crossreferenced with a list of all billed eFAST scans.Medical records were reviewed to determine whether an eFAST was indicated,performed,and appropriately documented.RESULTS:We found that 1,507 of 1,597 trauma patients had indications for eFAST,but 396(27%)of these patients did not have a billed eFAST.Of these 396 patients,87(22%)had documentation in the provider note that an eFAST was performed but there was no separate procedure note.The remaining 309(78%)did not have any documentation of the eFAST in the patient’s chart although an eFAST was recorded and reviewed during ultrasound quality assurance.CONCLUSION:A significant proportion of trauma patients had eFAST exams performed but were not documented or billed.Lack of documentation was multifactorial.Emergency ultrasound programs require appropriate reimbursement to support training,credentialing,equipment,quality assurance,and device maintenance.Our study demonstrates a significant absence of adequate documentation leading to potential revenue loss for an emergency ultrasound program.
基金The authors gratefully acknowledgement funding of this research(KREF116101)King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang Research Fund,Thailand.
文摘Durian rind wastes are an important raw material for activated carbon production due to their renewable sources and low-cost materials.The efficiency of increasing surface area and the quantity of oxygen groups on the surface of activated carbon were studied for the preparation of activated carbon.The preparation of activated carbon has been studied with the different methods as follows:activation by acid,activation by base,hydrothermal and activation by acid,and hydrothermal and activation by base.The results showed that hydrothermal and activation by acid had high iodine number which was chosen to determine the optimum condition for activated carbon preparation.The optimum condition for preparation of durian rind activated carbon was studied by Box-Behnken design.Solid/water ratio,solid/acid ratio and temperature were chosen as the important parameters for achieving the optimum reaction condition.The reaction products were analyzed by iodine number.Based on the results,the optimum condition for preparation of durian rind activated carbon was predicted using RSM.The maximum iodine number of 626.47 mg/g was expected at the optimum condition:solid/water ratio(1:175,g/mL),solid/acid ratio(1:23,g/mL)and temperature(500℃).The preparation of durian rind activated carbon at the optimal condition was carried;the percentages of iodine number achieved(666.73±6 mg/g)were close to the maximum predicted value(666.73 mg/g),thus verifying the model.At the optimum condition,the functional group on surface of durian rind activated carbon was characterized by FT-IR.The result showed that the oxygen content on surface was increased in the form of carbonyl and sulfonyl group.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (61963033, 61866036, 62163035)the Key Project of Natural Science Foundation of Xinjiang (2021D01D10)+1 种基金the Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Applied Mathematics (XJDX1401)the Special Project for Local Science and Technology Development Guided by the Central Government (ZYYD2022A05)。
文摘The fixed-time synchronization and preassigned-time synchronization are investigated for a class of quaternion-valued neural networks with time-varying delays and discontinuous activation functions. Unlike previous efforts that employed separation analysis and the real-valued control design, based on the quaternion-valued signum function and several related properties, a direct analytical method is proposed here and the quaternion-valued controllers are designed in order to discuss the fixed-time synchronization for the relevant quaternion-valued neural networks. In addition, the preassigned-time synchronization is investigated based on a quaternion-valued control design, where the synchronization time is preassigned and the control gains are finite. Compared with existing results, the direct method without separation developed in this article is beneficial in terms of simplifying theoretical analysis, and the proposed quaternion-valued control schemes are simpler and more effective than the traditional design, which adds four real-valued controllers. Finally, two numerical examples are given in order to support the theoretical results.
基金sponsored by the Ministry of Science and Technology of Taiwan,China,under the grant of MOST 105-2221-E-035-039-MY2
文摘Preparation of Zr2Al3C4-Al2O3 in situ composites was investigated by self-propagating high-temperature synthesis(SHS)involving both aluminothermic reduction of ZrO2 and chemical activation of PTFE(Teflon).The starting materials included ZrO2,Al,carbon black and PTFE.In addition to the conventional SHS method,the experiments were conducted by a chemical-oven SHS(COSHS)route to thermally assist the synthesis reaction.The threshold amount of 2%(mass fraction)PTFE was required to induce self-sustaining combustion.When the conventional SHS scheme was utilized,due to low combustion temperatures between 1152 and 1272°C and insufficient reaction time,the dominant carbide forming in the composite was ZrC instead of Zr2Al3C4.On the other hand,the COSHS technique increased the combustion temperature of the reactant compact to about 1576°C,lengthened the high-temperature duration for the reaction,and prevented Al vapor from escaping away.As a consequence,Zr2Al3C4-Al2O3 composites with a small amount of Zr3Al3C5 were obtained.The microstructure of the COSHS-derived product showed that plate-like Zr2Al3C4 grains were about 2μm in thickness and 10-30μm in length,and most of them were closely stacked into a laminated configuration.
基金support provided by the American Chemical Society Petroleum Research Fund(PRF No.65744-DNI6).
文摘As a vital energy resource and raw material for many industrial products,syngas(CO and H_(2))is of great significance.Dry reforming of methane(DRM)is an important approach to producing syngas(with a hydrogen-to-carbon-monoxide ratio of 1:1 in principle)from methane and carbon dioxide,with a lower operational cost as compared to other reforming techniques.However,many pure metallic catalysts used in DRM face deactivation issues due to coke formation or sintering of the metal particles.A systematic search for highly efficient metallic catalysts,which reduce the reaction barriers for the rate-determining steps and resist carbon deposition,is urgently needed.Nickel is a typical low-cost transition metal for activating the C–H bond in methane.In this work,we applied a two-step workflow to search for nickel-based bimetallic catalysts with doping metals M(M-Ni)by combining density functional theory(DFT)calculations and machine learning(ML).We focus on the two critical steps in DRM—CH_(4) and CO_(2) direct activations.We used DFT and slab models for the Ni(111)facet to explore the relevant reaction pathways and constructed a data set containing structural and energetic information for representative M-Ni systems.We used this dataset to train ML models with chemical-knowledge-based features and predicted CH_(4) and CO_(2) dissociation energies and barriers,which revealed the composition–activity relationships of the bimetallic catalysts.We also used these models to rank the predicted catalytic performance of candidate systems to demonstrate the applicability of ML for catalyst screening.We emphasized that ML ranking models would be more valuable than regression models in high-throughput screenings.Finally,we used our trained model to screen 12 unexplored M-Ni systems and showed that the DFT-computed energies and barriers are very close to the ML-predicted values for top candidates,validating the robustness of the trained model.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.32271043(to ZW)and 82171047(to YM)the both Science and Technology Major Project of Shanghai,No.2018SHZDZX01 and ZJLabShanghai Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Technology(to ZW)。
文摘Downregulation of the inwardly rectifying potassium channel Kir4.1 is a key step for inducing retinal Müller cell activation and interaction with other glial cells,which is involved in retinal ganglion cell apoptosis in glaucoma.Modulation of Kir4.1 expression in Müller cells may therefore be a potential strategy for attenuating retinal ganglion cell damage in glaucoma.In this study,we identified seven predicted phosphorylation sites in Kir4.1 and constructed lentiviral expression systems expressing Kir4.1 mutated at each site to prevent phosphorylation.Following this,we treated Müller glial cells in vitro and in vivo with the m Glu R I agonist DHPG to induce Kir4.1 or Kir4.1 Tyr^(9)Asp overexpression.We found that both Kir4.1 and Kir4.1 Tyr^(9)Asp overexpression inhibited activation of Müller glial cells.Subsequently,we established a rat model of chronic ocular hypertension by injecting microbeads into the anterior chamber and overexpressed Kir4.1 or Kir4.1 Tyr^(9)Asp in the eye,and observed similar results in Müller cells in vivo as those seen in vitro.Both Kir4.1 and Kir4.1 Tyr^(9)Asp overexpression inhibited Müller cell activation,regulated the balance of Bax/Bcl-2,and reduced the m RNA and protein levels of pro-inflammatory factors,including interleukin-1βand tumor necrosis factor-α.Furthermore,we investigated the regulatory effects of Kir4.1 and Kir4.1 Tyr^(9)Asp overexpression on the release of pro-inflammatory factors in a co-culture system of Müller glial cells and microglia.In this co-culture system,we observed elevated adenosine triphosphate concentrations in activated Müller cells,increased levels of translocator protein(a marker of microglial activation),and elevated interleukin-1βm RNA and protein levels in microglia induced by activated Müller cells.These changes could be reversed by Kir4.1 and Kir4.1 Tyr^(9)Asp overexpression in Müller cells.Kir4.1 overexpression,but not Kir4.1 Tyr^(9)Asp overexpression,reduced the number of proliferative and migratory microglia induced by activated Müller cells.Collectively,these results suggest that the tyrosine residue at position nine in Kir4.1 may serve as a functional modulation site in the retina in an experimental model of glaucoma.Kir4.1 and Kir4.1 Tyr^(9)Asp overexpression attenuated Müller cell activation,reduced ATP/P2X receptor–mediated interactions between glial cells,inhibited microglial activation,and decreased the synthesis and release of pro-inflammatory factors,consequently ameliorating retinal ganglion cell apoptosis in glaucoma.
基金Supported by the Science and Technology Cooperation and Exchange special project of Cooperation of Shanxi Province(202404041101014)the Fundamental Research Program of Shanxi Province(202403021212333)+3 种基金the Joint Funds of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(U24A20555)the Lvliang Key R&D of University-Local Cooperation(2023XDHZ10)the Initiation Fund for Doctoral Research of Taiyuan University of Science and Technology(20242026)the Outstanding Doctor Funding Award of Shanxi Province(20242080).
文摘To elucidate the effect of calcite-regulated activated carbon(AC)structure on low-temperature denitrification performance of SCR catalysts,this work prepared a series of Mn-Ce/De-AC-xCaCO_(3)(x is the calcite content in coal)catalysts were prepared by the incipient wetness impregnation method,followed by acid washing to remove calcium-containing minerals.Comprehensive characterization and low-temperature denitrification tests revealed that calcite-induced structural modulation of coal-derived AC significantly enhances catalytic activity.Specifically,NO conversion increased from 88.3%of Mn-Ce/De-AC to 91.7%of Mn-Ce/De-AC-1CaCO_(3)(210℃).The improved SCR denitrification activity results from the enhancement of physicochemical properties including higher Mn^(4+)content and Ce^(4+)/Ce^(3+)ratio,an abundance of chemisorbed oxygen and acidic sites,which could strengthen the SCR reaction pathways(richer NH_(3)activated species and bidentate nitrate active species).Therefore,NO removal is enhanced.
文摘BACKGROUND:Hemiplegia,a prevalent stroke-related condition,is often studied for motor dysfunction;however,spasticity remains under-researched.Abnormal muscle tone significantly hinders hemiplegic patients’walking recovery.OBJECTIVE:To determine whether early suspension-protected training with a personal assistant machine for stroke patients enhances walking ability and prevents muscle spasms.METHODS:Thirty-two early-stage stroke patients from Shenzhen University General Hospital and the China Rehabilitation Research Center were randomly assigned to the experimental group(n=16)and the control group(n=16).Both groups underwent 4 weeks of gait training under the suspension protection system for 30 minutes daily,5 days a week.The experimental group used the personal assistant machine during training.Three-dimensional gait analysis(using the Cortex motion capture system),Brunnstrom staging,Fugl-Meyer Assessment for lower limb motor function,Fugl-Meyer balance function,and the modified Ashworth Scale were evaluated within 1 week before the intervention and after 4 weeks of intervention.RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:After the 4-week intervention,all outcome measures showed significant changes in each group.The experimental group had a small but significant increase in the modified Ashworth Scale score(P<0.05,d=|0.15|),while the control group had a large significant increase(P<0.05,d=|1.48|).The experimental group demonstrated greater improvements in walking speed(16.5 to 38.44 cm/s,P<0.05,d=|4.01|),step frequency(46.44 to 64.94 steps/min,P<0.05,d=|2.32|),stride length(15.50 to 29.81 cm,P<0.05,d=|3.44|),and peak hip and knee flexion(d=|1.82|to|2.17|).After treatment,the experimental group showed significantly greater improvements than the control group in walking speed(38.44 vs.26.63 cm/s,P<0.05,d=|2.75|),stride length,peak hip and knee flexion(d=|1.31|to|1.45|),step frequency(64.94 vs.59.38 steps/min,P<0.05,d=|0.85|),and a reduced support phase(bilateral:24.31%vs.28.38%,P<0.05,d=|0.88|;non-paretic:66.19%vs.70.13%,P<0.05,d=|0.94|).For early hemiplegia,personal assistant machine-assisted gait training under the suspension protection system helps establish a correct gait pattern,prevents muscle spasms,and improves motor function.
文摘Passiflora incarnata L.,commonly known as passionflower,is traditionally cultivated as an ornamental plant but has demonstrated diverse therapeutic potential.Its pharmacological effects are attributed to bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and alkaloids,which influence multiple biological pathways.This review aims to summarise and critically analyse recent findings on the pharmacological properties of Passiflora incarnata L.,focusing on its neuropsychiatric,antioxidant,antimicrobial,and anticancer activities.A targeted literature search was conducted in PubMed,Scopus,Web of Science,and Google Scholar for peer-reviewed publications between 2000 to 2025.Relevant articles were screened,and a more appropriate article related to the objective of the review was selected.Some classical papers are also cited as per the requirement of the topic.Passiflora incarnata L.showed multifunctional medicinal properties with various applications in neuropsychiatry,oxidative stress management,antimicrobial agent,and as an anticancer agent.The U.S.Food and Drug Administration categorizes passionflower extracts as“generally recognized as safe”.However,most evidence remains preclinical,with methodological variation limiting generalisation.Standardised formulation,robust clinical trials,and in-depth in vivo studies are essential to establish its therapeutic relevance and safety in modern medicine.
文摘Rationale:This case report describes a couple with recurrent fertilization failure despite undergoing multiple cycles of intracytoplasmic sperm injection(ICSI).The principal clinical concern was suspected oocyte activation deficiency(OAD),in which fertilization is impeded due to the oocyte’s inability to initiate embryogenesis,commonly attributed to inadequate intracellular calcium(Ca^(2+))release following sperm injection.Patient concerns:The couple repeatedly experienced complete or near-complete fertilization failure in previous ICSI cycles,raising suspicion of an underlying oocyte activation defect.Diagnosis:Based on the repeated absence of fertilization post-ICSI and clinical history,a diagnosis of suspected OAD leading to recurrent ICSI fertilization failure was considered.Interventions:Artificial oocyte activation(AOA)using the calcium ionophore A23187 was performed.After ICSI,unfertilized oocytes were exposed to the ionophore to induce Ca^(2+)influx,simulating physiological calcium oscillations essential for oocyte activation.The efficacy of intervention was evaluated through subsequent embryonic development,morphological grading,and chromosomal integrity.Outcomes:Following AOA treatment,successful oocyte activation occurred,resulting in the formation of high-grade embryos with normal developmental progression.Chromosomal analysis revealed no detectable abnormalities,indicating genomic stability.Lessons:Calcium ionophore–mediated AOA may serve as an effective adjunct in cases of recurrent ICSI failure attributed to OAD.This case highlights the importance of individualized therapeutic strategies in assisted reproduction;however,further research is needed to refine protocols,validate broader clinical efficacy,and assess long-term safety,including potential epigenetic risks.
文摘BACKGROUND Postoperative delirium(POD)is a common and serious complication in surgical patients,particularly older adults.Alterations in cholinergic function have been implicated in its pathophysiology.AIM To evaluate the association between preoperative serum cholinesterase(ChE)activity—specifically butyrylcholinesterase(BuChE)and acetylcholinesterase(AChE)—and the risk of POD in adult surgical patients in a meta-analysis.METHODS A systematic search was conducted in PubMed,EMBASE,and Web of Science up to March 28,2025 for studies reporting preoperative serum BuChE or AChE activity in relation to subsequent POD incidence.Standardized mean differences(SMDs)and odds ratios(ORs)with 95%confidence intervals(CIs)were pooled using random-effects models.Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were performed based on follow-up duration and analytic models.RESULTS Thirteen studies(n=2730 patients)were included.Patients who developed POD had significantly lower preoperative BuChE activity than those who did not(SMD=-0.28;95%CI:-0.39 to-0.16;I²=18%).Higher BuChE activity was associated with a reduced risk of POD(OR per 100 unit increment=0.97;95%CI:0.95-0.99;I2=0%).In contrast,pooled AChE activity did not differ significantly between POD and non-POD groups(SMD=-0.25;95%CI:-0.53 to 0.03;P=0.08;I2=80%),and the ORs per 1 unit increment in AChE activity were not statistically significant(OR=0.98;95%CI:0.95-1.01).CONCLUSION Lower preoperative serum BuChE activity is associated with an increased risk of POD in adults undergoing surgery.BuChE activity may serve as a potential preoperative biomarker for POD risk stratification.
基金supported by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology(FCT)under the scope of the strategic funding of UIDB/04469/2020 unit and by the CM4Methane project(Ref:PTDC/BTA-BTA/2249/2021,DOI 10.54499/PTDC/BTABTA/2249/2021)FCT and European Union(EU),through the Portuguese State Budget and the European Social Fund under the scope of Norte2020-Programa Operacional Regional do Norte,also funded the SFRH/BD/132003/2017 and COVID/BD/152431/2022 grants held by Cátia S.N.Braga.,and the SFRH/BD/147271/2019 grant held by João C.Sequeira.M.SaloméDuarte acknowledges FCT for the Junior Research contract obtained under the scope of the Scientific Stimulus Employment 2022(ref:2022.06569.CEECIND/CP1718/CT0004,doi:https://doi.org/10.54499/2022.06569.CEECIND/CP1718/CT0004)PhD M.Fernando R.Pereira and PhD O.SaloméG.Soares from the Laboratory of Separation and Reaction Engineering-Laboratory of Catalysis and Materials,Faculty of Engineering(University of Porto),for providing the AC used in this study.
文摘Conductive materials(CM)can improve methane production(MP)efficiency in many methanogenic systems.However,several types of CM exist,and there are uncertainties regarding whether they all improve MP efficiency to the same extent and modulate microbial communities in a similar way.To investigate that,different microbial enrichments with and without activated carbon(AC),magnetite(Mag),and zeolites(Zeo)(at 0.5 g/L)were developed.MP profiles and microbial composition changes were compared among enrichments.The behavior of all enrichments was different,although the initial inoculum sludge was the same.Lag phase duration was lower in AC enrichment,while the complete conversion of butyrate to methane was faster in Mag enrichment.Syntrophomonas was the most abundant bacterial genus in all enrichments,but changes in the methanogenic community were evident.Acetoclastic methanogens were more diverse in Mag enrichment,with microorganisms assigned to Methanosarcina and Methanothrix gener1,but Methanothrix was the only acetoclastic methanogen in the other enrichments.On the other hand,different species of hydrogenotrophic methanogens prevailed in distinct enrichments.The metatranscriptomics results revealed that the dominant mechanism of interspecies electron transfer in the AC enrichment utilized hydrogen as the electron carrier,and no evidences of direct interspecies electron transfer(DIET)could be found.These results showed how different CM modulate microbial communities and affect MP efficiency through mechanisms that do not necessarily involve DIET or mediation via CM.
基金funded by the State Key Laboratory Special Fund(2060204)Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences(2023-I2M-2-001)Strengthen Capacity of Study and Application on the Burden of Disease in Health Care Systems in China:Establishment and Development of Chinese Burden of Disease Research and Dissemination Center(15-208)supported by the China Medical Board(CMB)。
文摘Objective Stroke is the third leading cause of death worldwide,with the highest incidence in Asia,particularly in China,where smoking remains a major risk factor.The smoking prevalence in China is similar to that in Asia.Whether the risk estimates for smoking-related stroke in China and all Asian countries are still unknown which is worth evaluating.Thus,this study aims to compare the Relative Risk(RR)of smoking-attributed stroke among the Chinese and Asian populations.Methods A literature search was conducted from the inception to September 10,2022.Studies meeting the criteria were included.The articles were screened,and related information was extracted.Pooled RRs stratified by smoking status and sex were analyzed,including subgroup analyses for China,other Asian countries,and Asia overall.Finally,publication bias and sensitivity analyses were conducted.Results Thirty-seven articles on the Chinese population and 15 on other Asian populations were included,with a mean Newcastle-Ottawa scale(NOS)score of 7.25.About ever smokers,there had no statistical difference existed in both sexes and females between China and other Asian countries,while the RR of males in other Asian countries[2.31(1.38,3.86)]was higher than that in China[1.21(1.15,1.26)];further subgroup analysis indicated that other Asian countries had higher RR[3.76(3.02,4.67)]in the morbidity subgroup.The RRs of both sexes,males and females,between China and the whole of Asia were not statistically different.As for current and former smokers,no meaningful statistical difference was observed in the pooled RRs of both sexes,males and females,in China,other Asian countries,and all of Asia.Conclusion The RR of males ever smokers in China was smaller than that in other Asian countries due to the few articles of morbidity subgroup,but had no statistical difference with the whole of Asia;other groups of ever smokers,current smokers,and former smokers were not statistically significant with other Asian countries or the whole of Asia.
基金Supported by Provincial Key Research Project of Henan Province,No.232102310081.
文摘BACKGROUND Major depressive disorder(MDD)and obesity(OB)are bidirectionally comorbid conditions with common neurobiological underpinnings.However,the neurocognitive mechanisms of their comorbidity remain poorly understood.AIM To examine regional abnormalities in spontaneous brain activity among patients with MDD-OB comorbidity.METHODS This study adopted a regional homogeneity(ReHo)analysis of resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging.The study included 149 hospital patients divided into four groups:Patients experiencing their first episode of drug-naive MDD with OB,patients with MDD without OB,and age-and sex-matched healthy individuals with and without OB.Whole-brain ReHo analysis was conducted using SPM12 software and RESTplus toolkits,with group comparisons via ANOVA and post-hoc tests.Correlations between ReHo values and behavioral measures were examined.RESULTS ANOVA revealed significant whole-brain ReHo differences among the four groups in four key regions:The left middle temporal gyrus(MTG.L),right cuneus,left precuneus,and left thalamus.Post-hoc analyses confirmed pairwise differences between all groups across these regions(P<0.05).OB was associated with ReHo alterations in the MTG.L,right cuneus,and left thalamus,whereas abnormalities in the precuneus suggested synergistic pathological mechanisms between MDD and OB.Statistically significant correlations were found between the drive and fun-seeking dimensions of the behavioral activation system,as well as behavioral inhibition and the corresponding ReHo values.CONCLUSION Our findings provide novel evidence for the neuroadaptive mechanisms underlying the MDD-OB comorbidity.Further validation could lead to personalized interventions targeting MTG.L hyperactivity and targeting healthy food cues.
文摘Ruscogenin,a steroidal sapogenin,is primarily derived from the genus Ruscus.It demonstrates a wide range of pharmacological actions that hold substantial promise for therapeutic use.By conducting a comprehensive examination of electronic databases including PubMed,ScienceDirect,and SciFinder,we identified studies on ruscogenin to date.This review aims at emphasizing the findings related to the bioactivities of ruscogenin,particularly its protective activities in neurological and inflammatory disorders,hemorrhoids,and cancer.Ruscogenin has been demonstrated to possess anti-ulcer,anti-osteoporotic,and skin-lightening properties as a therapeutic agent.It has also been proven effective in managing metabolic disorders by reducing inflammation and improving lipid metabolism,particularly in conditions such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and diabetic nephropathy.Reports indicate that it can prevent acute lung injury by protecting pulmonary endothelial cells from apoptosis and modulating inflammatory cytokines.Additionally,ruscogenin promotes neurological recovery by mitigating oxidative stress.It also shows anti-cancer properties,leading to apoptosis and hindering metastasis,particularly in pancreatic and hepatocellular carcinoma.This review summarizes the potential medical applications of ruscogenin and underscores the need for further research on its mechanisms of action.
基金supported by the Jilin Science and Technology Development Talent Special Project,Nos.20240601086RC,23JQ08(all to ZH)YDZJ202502CXJD077+1 种基金JLARS-2025-0802-09YDZJ202501ZYTS706.
文摘Population aging is one of the common challenges in the current world.As people age,the body’s tissues including cells,and molecules inevitably degrade,and their functions gradually decline,causing various age-related diseases like Alzheimer’s disease,osteoporosis,low immunity,glucose and lipid metabolism disorders,and cardiovascular diseases.With the continuous increase of the elderly population,the pressure on the medical industry is increasing.To lower the burden on the medical industry and increase the average age of the elderly,it is vital to explore effective anti-aging materials.Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma(Renshen),as a traditional and precious Chinese medicinal herb,is known as the“king of all herbs”.It is famous for its effects of“tonifying Qi,restoring pulse”(helping with the generation of Qi(the fundamental,vital energy that continuously flows within the body)and the circulation of blood)and strengthening the body,nourishing the spleen and lungs,generating fluids and nourishing blood,calming the mind and improving intelligence.Recently,its anti-aging effect has received increasing attention from modern scientific research.This study summarizes the pharmacological effects of the main active ingredients of Renshen(ginsenosides,polysaccharides,etc.)on resisting aging,including preventing neuroaging,suppressing skin aging,mitigating ovarian aging,inhibiting osteoporosis and arthritis,enhancing the immune system of the elderly,protecting the cardiovascular system,resisting aging-induced fatigue and exerting the anti-tumor effects.Through network pharmacology and molecular docking,the anti-aging active ingredients of Renshen were screened,and the key targets and pathways of anti-aging active ingredients in Renshen were determined.Using network pharmacology,totally 106 drug targets and 3,479 disease targets were screened,and 79 common targets between aging and Renshen were identified.Three core targets were identified in the PPI network,including TNF,AKT1,and IL-1β.Molecular docking was used to obtain further verification.This study emphasizes the potential of Renshen as a source of anti-aging activity,which can be developed into a novel drug for the treatment of age-related diseases.
基金supported by the Health Commission of Hubei Province scientific research project(No.WJ2021M143)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(No.413000714)+2 种基金the Research Fund of Anhui Institute of translational medicine(No.2023zhyx-C61)the Research Fund Project of Anhui Medical University(No.2022xkj148)Hubei Society of Pathology General Project(No.2025HBAP013).
文摘Epilepsy is a complex neurological disorder aggravated by chronic neuroinflammation largely driven by reactive astrocytes.These cells promote epileptogenesis through persistent cytokine secretion and glial scar formation.Current antiepileptic drugs remain ineffective in targeting these mechanisms due to limited blood-brain barrier(BBB)permeability and poor astrocytic specificity.A transferrin-functionalized biomimetic nanotherapeutic loaded with resveratrol(RN@RTA)was developed to regulate astrocyte-mediated inflammation by activating sirtuin 1(SIRT1)and suppressing the mitogen-activated protein kinase/nuclear factor Kappalight-chain-enhancer of activated B cells(MAPK/NF-κB)axis.Using in vitro BBB models,primary astrocytes,and a pilocarpine-induced chronic epilepsy mouse model,we evaluated the capacity of RN@RTA to cross the BBB,inhibit inflammatory signaling,and reduce seizure activity.Mechanistic assays included immunoprecipitation of NF-κB complexes,cytokine quantification,RNA sequencing,and histopathological assessments of glial and synaptic markers.RN@RTA achieved 82%uptake by hippocampal astrocytes and significantly reduced Il6,Tnf-α,and Nlrp3 expression.SIRT1 activation disrupted the NF-κB p65/p300 complex,leading to transcriptional repression of inflammatory genes and enhancement of autophagy.In vivo,seizure frequency decreased by 67%,synaptic structure was preserved,and astrogliosis was markedly alleviated.The findings demonstrate a dual regulatory mechanism in which RN@RTA suppresses neuroinflammatory signaling and restores neural homeostasis,offering a promising molecularly targeted approach for refractory epilepsy.
基金funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.U2442210 and 42275059)supported by funding from Chengdu University of Information Technology(Grant No.X202310621039).
文摘The January 2022 eruption of Hunga injected unprecedented volumes of water vapor(150 Tg)and modest sulfur dioxide(SO_(2))into the stratosphere,producing accelerated sulfate aerosol formation in the early plume.As the aerosols gradually spread into the global stratosphere,the role of water vapor,among other factors in the spread and residence time of the sulfate aerosols,remained unclear.We used multisatellite observations to better understand the role of water vapor in the spread and lifetime of Hunga volcanic aerosols.Stratospheric circulation transported the plumes to~26 km within the polar vortices-the Antarctic by August 2022 and the Arctic by January 2023-with the arrival of aerosols lagging behind that of water vapor by months.Even though high injection altitudes(58 km)and strong Brewer-Dobson circulation contributed to prolonging the residence time of aerosols,the water vapor enhanced particle growth and thus accelerated gravitational settling,with the half lifetime of aerosols being 14 months.Our analysis revealed a critical trade-off:after the eruption of the Hunga volcano,an extremely high injection height and strong upward motion slowed the removal of aerosols,but extreme water vapor loading still had a certain impact on the half lifetime of the aerosols.These findings highlight the role of water vapor in the persistence of aerosols from submarine eruptions.
