Deep nitrate accumulation in typical black soil critical zones of Northeast China.

Deep nitrate accumulation below 1 m has been observed in various soil regions, yet remains undocumented in the black soil (mainly Phaeozems and Chernozems) region. Climatic and edaphic factors likely influence deep nitrate accumulation on a large scale, although existing studies primarily focus on individual sites. In order to evaluate the distribution and controlling factors of deep nitrate in the black soil region, inorganic nitrogen forms and regolith properties of nine boreholes spanning humid, semi-humid, and semi-arid areas in Fujin, Hailun, and Lindian in northeast China were analyzed down to a depth of 10 m. The results revealed significant nitrate accumulation in Lindian, peaking at 11.03 mg N kg-1 at a depth of 3 m underground. Nitrate storage from the land surface to a depth of 10 m in Lindian ranged from 459.65 kg N ha-1 to 1072.88 kg N ha-1, with over 70 % of nitrate stored below 1 m. Nitrate accounted for 97.74 % of the total N stock in Lindian. Ammonium accumulation has been observed at a deeper depth in Hailun, with no nitrate accumulation detected in Hainlun and Fujin. Regolith properties such as clay, silt, sand, and pH playing a crucial role in reshaping the vertical pattern of nitrate. The presence of nitrate pools at greater depths in intensively managed black soil regions should be taken into account for the sustainable utilization of soil resources and the mitigation of groundwater pollution risks.

Causal effects and metabolites mediators between immune cell and risk of colorectal cancer: a Mendelian randomization study.

Objective: The involvement of immune cells in colorectal cancer (CRC) and their interplay with metabolic disorders are yet to be fully elucidated. This study examines how peripheral immune cells, inferred genetically, affect CRC and investigates the intermediary roles of metabolites. Methods: We employed a two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) approach to assess the causal influence of immune cells on CRC. Additionally, a two-step MR strategy was utilized to pinpoint potential metabolites that mediate this effect. Our analysis incorporated data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS), involving 731 immune cell types, 1,400 metabolites, and CRC outcomes. The primary method of analysis was randomized inverse variance weighting (IVW), supported by MR-Egger, weighted median, simple mode, and weighted mode analyses. Sensitivity checks were conducted using Cochran's Q test, MR-PRESSO test, MR-Egger regression intercept, and leave-one-out analysis. Results: The study identified 23 immune cell types and 17 metabolites that are causally linked to CRC. Our mediation analysis highlighted that nine metabolites act as intermediaries in the relationship between nine specific immune cells and CRC risk. Notably, The ratios of Adenosine 5'-monophosphate (AMP) to aspartate and Retinol (Vitamin A) to linoleoyl-arachidonoyl-glycerol (18:2 to 20:4) were found to concurrently mediate the promoting effects of Myeloid DC %DC and BAFF-R on B cells in colorectal cancer (CRC). Moreover, iminodiacetate (IDA) was found to mediate the protective effect of CD14+ CD16- monocytes on CRC, contributing 11.8% to this mediation. In contrast, IDA was also seen to decrease the protective effect of IgD+ CD38br %B cells on CRC risk, with a mediation effect proportion of -10.4%. Conclusion: This study delineates a complex network involving immune cells, metabolites, and CRC, suggesting a multifaceted pathophysiological interaction. The identified causal links and mediation pathways underscore potential therapeutic targets, providing a foundation for interventions aimed at modulating immune responses to manage CRC.

Lung ultrasound diagnosis of pulmonary edema resulting from excessive fluid absorption during hysteroscopic myomectomy: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Hysteroscopic surgery is a safe procedure used for diagnosing and treating intrauterine lesions, with a low rate of intraoperative complications. However, it is important to be cautious as fluid overload can still occur when performing any hysteroscopic surgical technique. CASE PRESENTATION: In this case report, we present a unique instance where lung ultrasound was utilized to diagnose pulmonary edema in a patient following a hysteroscopic myomectomy procedure. The development of pulmonary edema was attributed to the excessive absorption of fluid during the surgical intervention. By employing lung ultrasound as a diagnostic tool, we were able to promptly identify and address the pulmonary edema. As a result, the patient received timely treatment with no complications. This case highlights the importance of utilizing advanced imaging techniques, such as lung ultrasound, in the perioperative management of patients undergoing hysteroscopic procedures. CONCLUSIONS: This case report underscores the significance of early detection and intervention in preventing complications associated with fluid overload during hysteroscopic myomectomy procedures.

Specific mode electroacupuncture stimulation opens the blood-brain barrier of the infarcted border zone in rats during MCAO/R recovery via modulation of tight junction protein expression by VEGFA and NF-κB.

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) strictly limits the entry of most exogenous therapeutic drugs into the brain, which brings great challenges to the drug treatment of refractory central diseases, including the treatment of ischemic stroke. Our previous studies have shown that specific mode electroacupuncture stimulation (SMES) can temporarily open the BBB, but with the mechanisms largely unknown. This study explored whether SMES opens the BBB in the infarcted border zone of rats during middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion recovery, and whether this is related to p65 or vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) modulation of tight junction protein expression through in vivo and in vitro studies. Evans blue, FITC-dextran, mouse-derived nerve growth factor (NGF), and transendothelial electrical resistance values were used to evaluate the permeability of the BBB. Additionally, microvascular endothelial cells and astrocytes were utilized for in vitro study. Immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, western blot, and ELISA were employed to assess related protein expression. SMES significantly increased vascular permeability for Evans blue and NGF in the infarcted border zone, and increased the expression of VEGFA by activating p-p65, thereby reducing the expression of tight junction proteins Occludin and ZO-1. Correspondingly, oxygen glucose deprivation/reoxygenation activated p-p65 in and induced VEGFA secretion from astrocytes in vitro. Their conditioned medium reduced the expression of Occludin in bEnd.3 cells and increased the permeability of FITC-dextran. The mechanism of SMES opening infarcted border zone BBB is partly related to its actions on p65, VEGFA, and tight junction proteins.

Association between obstructive sleep apnea and 24-h urine protein quantification in patients with hypertension.

The association between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and proteinuria is undetermined, with few studies on hypertension, a high-risk group for renal impairment. Therefore, we aimed to explore whether OSA is an independent risk factor for proteinuria in patients with hypertension. We investigated the cross-sectional association between OSA and proteinuria. Participants were divided into groups by apnea hypopnea index (AHI) category. Multivariable Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between OSA severity, objectively measured sleep dimensions, and proteinuria which is mainly defined by 24-h urine protein quantification > 300 mg/24 h. Sensitivity analyses were performed by excluding those with comorbidities (primary aldosteronism and homocysteine ≥ 15 µmol/L). Of the 2106 participants, the mean age was 47.57 ± 10.50 years, 67.2% were men, and 75.9% were OSA patients. In total participants, compared with those without OSA, patients with mild OSA, moderate OSA, and severe OSA showed 1.09 (95% CI 0.80-1.40), 1.24 (95% CI 0.89-1.74) and 1.47 (95% CI 1.04-2.08) fold risk for proteinuria with a trend test P trend < 0.05. Each 10-unit increase in the AHI, oxygen desaturation index (ODI), and time spent with oxygen saturation < 90% (T90) was found to be associated with 13%, 10%, and 2% higher likelihood of proteinuria in the crude model, significant in adjusted models. The more severe the OSA is, the higher the risk of proteinuria. AHI and T90 are independently associated with a higher risk of structural renal damage in the population with hypertension.

Correlation between anesthetic concentration and low Apgar scores in neonates born via Cesarean sections under general anesthesia.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to compare plasma concentrations of anesthetic drugs administered during Cesarean section with low Apgar score in neonates deliveried under general anesthesia and analyze associated risk factors. METHODS: Data from 76 neonates undergoing Cesarean section under general anesthesia with blood concentrations of anesthetic drugs were analyzed. A low Apgar score was defined as ≤ 7. Perioperative maternal and neonatal data were collected and analyzed. Neonates were divided into a control group (Group CON, n = 65) and a low Apgar score group (Group LAS, n = 11) based on Apgar score. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in the plasma concentrations of anesthetic drugs in maternal artery, umbilical vein or umbilical artery blood between the two groups. Risk factors for neonatal low Apgar scores during Cesarean section under general anesthesia were premature delivery (aOR 10.2, 95% CI = 1.8-56.9) and preoperative fetal distress (aOR 9.6, 95% CI = 1.3-69.0). The prediction model was: probability = 1/(e­Y), Y= -4.607 + 2.318× (premature delivery) + 2.261× (fetal distress) (yes = 1, no = 0). The Hosmer-Lemeshow test showed χ²= 9.587, P = 0.213, and the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.850 (0.670 ~ 1.000). With a cutoff value of 0.695, sensitivity and specificity were 81.8% and 87.7%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: There was no correlation between blood concentration of general anesthetic drugs and Apgar score or occurrence of neonatal low Apgar scores. Premature delivery and preoperative fetal distress were identified as independent risk factors for neonatal low Apgar scores after Cesarean section under general anesthesia.

Dual role of Nrf2 signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma: promoting development, immune evasion, and therapeutic challenges.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the predominant form of liver cancer and ranks as the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality globally. The liver performs a wide range of tasks and is the primary organ responsible for metabolizing harmful substances and foreign compounds. Oxidative stress has a crucial role in growth and improvement of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Nuclear factor erythroid 2 (1)-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is an element that regulates transcription located in the cytoplasm. It controls the balance of redox reactions by stimulating the expression of many genes that depend on antioxidant response elements. Nrf2 has contrasting functions in the normal, healthy liver and HCC. In the normal liver, Nrf2 provides advantageous benefits, while in HCC it promotes harmful effects that support the growth and survival of HCC. Continuous activation of Nrf2 has been detected in HCC and promotes its advancement and aggressiveness. In addition, Activation of Nrf2 may lead to immune evasion, weakening the immune cells' ability to attack tumors and thereby promoting tumor development. Furthermore, chemoresistance in HCC, which is considered a form of stress response to chemotherapy medications, significantly impedes the effectiveness of HCC treatment. Stress management is typically accomplished by activating specific signal pathways and chemical variables. One important element in the creation of chemoresistance in HCC is nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Nrf2 is a transcription factor that regulates the activation and production of a group of genes that encode proteins responsible for protecting cells from damage. This occurs through the Nrf2/ARE pathway, which is a crucial mechanism for combating oxidative stress within cells.

Impact of Personality Trait Interactions on Foraging and Growth in Native and Invasive Turtles.

Animal personalities play a crucial role in invasion dynamics. During the invasion process, the behavioral strategies of native species vary among personalities, just as the invasive species exhibit variations in behavior strategies across personalities. However, the impact of personality interactions between native species and invasive species on behavior and growth are rarely illustrated. The red-eared slider turtle (Trachemys scripta elegans) is one of the worst invasive species in the world, threatening the ecology and fitness of many freshwater turtles globally. The Chinese pond turtle (Mauremys reevesii) is one of the freshwater turtles most threatened by T. scripta elegans in China. In this study, we used T. scripta elegans and M. reevesii to investigate how the personality combinations of native and invasive turtles would impact the foraging strategy and growth of both species during the invasion process. We found that M. reevesii exhibited bolder and more exploratory personalities than T. scripta elegans. The foraging strategy of M. reevesii was mainly affected by the personality of T. scripta elegans, while the foraging strategy of T. scripta elegans was influenced by both their own personality and personalities of M. reevesii. Additionally, we did not find that the personality combination would affect the growth of either T. scripta elegans or M. reevesii. Differences in foraging strategy may be due to the dominance of invasive species and variations in the superficial exploration and thorough exploitation foraging strategies related to personalities. The lack of difference in growth may be due to the energy allocation trade-offs between personalities or be masked by the slow growth rate of turtles. Overall, our results reveal the mechanisms of personality interaction effects on the short-term foraging strategies of both native and invasive species during the invasion process. They provide empirical evidence to understand the effects of personality on invasion dynamics, which is beneficial for enhancing comprehension understanding of the personality effects on ecological interactions and invasion biology.

The spatial variations and driving factors of C, N, P stoichiometric characteristics of plant and soil in the terrestrial ecosystem.

Carbon(C), nitrogen(N), and phosphorus(P) are crucial elements in the element cycling in the terrestrial ecosystems. In the past decades, the spatial patterns and driving mechanisms of plant and soil ecological stoichiometry have been hot topics in ecological geography. So far, many studies at different spatial and ecological scales have been conducted, but systematic review has not been reported to summarize the research status. In this paper, we tried to fill this gap by reviewing both the spatial variations and driving factors of C, N, P stoichiometric characteristics of plant and soil at regional to large scale. Additionally, we synthesized researches on the relationships between plant and soil C, N and P stoichiometric characteristics. At the global scale, plant C, N, P stoichiometric characteristics exhibited some trends along latitude and temperature gradient. Plant taxonomic classification was the main factor controlling the spatial variations of plant C, N and P stoichiometric characteristics. Climate factor and soil properties showed varying impacts on the spatial variations of plant C, N, P stoichiometric characteristics across different spatial scales. Soil C, N, P stoichiometric characteristics also varied along climate gradient at large scale. Their spatial variations resulted from the combined effects of climate, topography, soil properties, and vegetation characteristics at regional scale. The spatial pattern of soil C, N, P stoichiometric characteristics and the driving effects from environmental factors could be notably different among different ecosystems and vegetation types. Plant C:N:P was obviously higher than that of soil, and there existed a positive correlation between plant and soil C:N:P. Their trends along longitude and latitude were similar, but this correlation varied significantly among different vegetation types. Finally, based on the issues identified in this paper, we highlighted eight potential research themes for the future studies.

[Inflammatory factors and prostate cancer: Two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis].

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the potential causal relationship between inflammatory factors and PCa using the two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) method. METHODS: We selected summary statistics of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) (n = 14 824) on 91 inflammatory factors, with PCa as the outcome in the latest 9th edition of FinnGen database for MR analysis. We evaluated the causal relationship between inflammatory factors and PCa using the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of such regression models as inverse variance weighting (IVW), MR-Egger regression, simple mode (SM), weighted mode (WM) and weighted median estimator (WME), with IVW as the main statistical method for this study. We further verified the results of MR by Bayesian analysis, and evaluated the heterogeneity of genetic instrumental variables, pleiotropic effects and sensitivity of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) as instrumental variables to the exposure-outcome relationship by Cochran's Q test, MR-Egger intercept test and leave-one-out cross validation. RESULTS: IVW showed that among the 91 inflammatory factors, interleukin-22 receptor A1 (IL-22RA1) and sulfotransferase 1A1 (ST1A1) were correlated positively with the risk of PCa； IL-22RA1：IVW（OR ［95% CI］: 1.12 ［1.00－1.25］, P = 0.04）；ST1A1：IVW（OR ［95% CI］: 1.08 (1.00－1.16), P = 0. 03）, while Chemokine ligand 11 (CXCL11) and interleukin 17 A (IL-17 A) negatively with the risk of PCa； CXCL11：IVW（OR ［95% CI］: 0.88 ［0.81－0.95］, P = 0.00）；IL-17A：IVW（OR ［95% CI］: 0.91 ［0.84－0.98］, P = 0.02）. No potential horizontal pleiotropy was detected by MR-Egger intercept analysis (P > 0.05, IL-22RA1 = 0.885, ST1A1 = 0.949, CXCL11 = 0.391, IL-17A = 0.884), nor biased SNPs in the MR pleiotropy residual sum and outlier (MR-PRESSO) test (P > 0.05, IL-22RA1 = 0.479, ST1A1 = 0.629, CXCL11 = 0.326, IL-17A = 0.444), or heterogeneity P > 0.05, IL-22RA1 = 0.543, ST1A1 = 0.677, CXCL11 = 0.336, IL-17A = 0.494). Leave-one-out sensitivity analysis indicated no significant impact of individual SNP sites on the overall causal relationship prediction, suggesting the reliable results of analysis. CONCLUSION: Among the 91 inflammatory factors, IL-22RA1 and ST1A1 have a positive causal relationship, while CXCL11 and IL-17A have a negative causal relationship with PCa.