Targeted/untargeted metabolomics and antioxidant properties distinguish Citrus reticulata 'Chachi' from Citrus reticulata Blanco.

Dried citrus peel (DCP), also called "Chen Pi", has edible and medicinal value. However, the specific differences among various sources remain unknown. Herein, we collected six DCP species, namely, one Citrus reticulata 'Chachi' (CZG) and five Citrus reticulata Blanco (CRB). Targeted high-performance liquid chromatography and untargeted ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry were employed to comprehensively compare the phenolic compounds and metabolites in DCP. Interestingly, 13 different phenolic compounds were noted in DCP. The total phenolic compound content in all CRB samples (58.86-127.65 mg/g) was higher than that of CZG (39.47 mg/g). Untargeted metabolomic revealed 1495 compounds, with 115 differentially expressed metabolites for CRBs and CZG, particularly flavonoids (38), terpenoids (15), and phenolic acids and derivatives (9). Lastly, antioxidant assays revealed that all CRB samples exhibited higher antioxidant activities compared with CZG. Therefore, our study results provide a theoretical basis for the high-value utilization of citrus peels and their metabolites.

Predicting 24-hour intraocular pressure peaks and averages with machine learning.

Purpose: Predicting 24-hour peak and average intraocular pressure (IOP) is essential for the diagnosis and management of glaucoma. This study aimed to develop and assess a machine learning model for predicting 24-hour peak and average IOP, leveraging advanced techniques to enhance prediction accuracy. We also aimed to identify relevant features and provide insights into the prediction results to better inform clinical practice. Methods: In this retrospective study, electronic medical records from January 2014 to May 2024 were analyzed, incorporating 24-hour IOP monitoring data and patient characteristics. Predictive models based on five machine learning algorithms were trained and evaluated. Five time points (10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM, and 6:00 PM) were tested to optimize prediction accuracy using their combinations. The model with the highest performance was selected, and feature importance was assessed using Shapley Additive Explanations. Results: This study included data from 517 patients (1,034 eyes). For predicting 24-hour peak IOP, the Random Forest Regression (RFR) model utilizing IOP values at 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, and 4:00 PM achieved optimal performance: MSE 5.248, RMSE 2.291, MAE 1.694, and R2 0.823. For predicting 24-hour average IOP, the RFR model using IOP values at 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM, and 6:00 PM performed best: MSE 1.374, RMSE 1.172, MAE 0.869, and R2 0.918. Conclusion: The study developed machine learning models that predict 24-hour peak and average IOP. Specific time point combinations and the RFR algorithm were identified, which improved the accuracy of predicting 24-hour peak and average intraocular pressure. These findings provide the potential for more effective management and treatment strategies for glaucoma patients.

TLR2/NF-κB signaling in macrophage/microglia mediated COVID-pain induced by SARS-CoV-2 envelope protein.

Pain has become a major symptom of long COVID-19 without effective therapy. Apart from viral infection pathological process, SARS-CoV-2 membranal proteins (envelope [S2E], spike [S2S] and membrane [S2M]) also present pro-inflammatory feature independently. Here, we aim to uncover the neuroinflammatory mechanism of COVID-pain induced by SARS-CoV-2 membranal proteins. We detected the three proteins in both peripheral sensory ganglions and spinal dorsal horn of COVID-19 donors. After intradermal and intrathecal injection, only S2E triggered pain behaviors, accompanied with upregulated-phosphorylation nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), which was significantly attenuated by minocycline in mice. We further identified Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) among TLRs as the target of S2E to evoke inflammatory responses leading to COVID-pain. This study identified the nociceptive effect of S2E through directly interacting with macrophage/microglia TLR2 and inducing the following NF-κB inflammatory storm. Clearing away S2E and inhibiting macrophage/microglia TLR2 served as perspective therapeutic strategies for COVID-19 pain.

Neuronal connectivity, behavioral, and transcriptional alterations associated with the loss of MARK2.

Neuronal connectivity is essential for adaptive brain responses and can be modulated by dendritic spine plasticity and the intrinsic excitability of individual neurons. Dysregulation of these processes can lead to aberrant neuronal activity, which has been associated with numerous neurological disorders including autism, epilepsy, and Alzheimer's disease. Nonetheless, the molecular mechanisms underlying abnormal neuronal connectivity remain unclear. We previously found that the serine/threonine kinase Microtubule Affinity Regulating Kinase 2 (MARK2), also known as Partitioning Defective 1b (Par1b), is important for the formation of dendritic spines in vitro. However, despite its genetic association with several neurological disorders, the in vivo impact of MARK2 on neuronal connectivity and cognitive functions remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that the loss of MARK2 in vivo results in changes to dendritic spine morphology, which in turn leads to a decrease in excitatory synaptic transmission. Additionally, the loss of MARK2 produces substantial impairments in learning and memory, reduced anxiety, and defective social behavior. Notably, MARK2 deficiency results in heightened seizure susceptibility. Consistent with this observation, electrophysiological analysis of hippocampal slices indicates underlying neuronal hyperexcitability in MARK2-deficient neurons. Finally, RNAseq analysis reveals transcriptional changes in genes regulating synaptic transmission and ion homeostasis. These results underscore the in vivo role of MARK2 in governing synaptic connectivity, neuronal excitability, and cognitive functions.

House dust mite allergen directly activates ILC2 cells via the TLR4 signaling pathway in allergic airway diseases.

BACKGROUND: Unlike T cells and B cells, the activation process of group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) is mainly driven by epithelial cell derived cytokines rather than specific antigen recognition. Whether antigens have a direct role in activating ILC2s remains poorly understood. METHODS: Following stimulation, type 2 cytokine secretions and cell death were assessed in house dust mite (HDM)-stimulated ILC2s. To investigate the underlying mechanisms, RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed on HDM-stimulated ILC2s. The validation experiments were done through in vitro stimulation assays and an HDM-induced asthmatic murine model, using specific inhibitors targeting receptor and relevant proteins of signaling pathways. RESULTS: HDM stimulation increased the secretion of IL-5 and IL-13 cytokines from ILC2s, inhibited apoptosis of ILC2, and promoted the proliferation of ILC2s. As confirmed by RNA-seq, HDM stimulation upregulated genes in ILC2s, including those responsible for type 2 cytokines, ILC2s-specific transcriptional factors, and related receptors. Both toll-like receptor (TLR) 1 and TLR4 were constitutively expressed on ILC2s, however, only TLR4 was predominantly upregulated upon HDM stimulation. TAK242, a specific TLR4 inhibitor, significantly blocked the effect of HDM on ILC2s, in terms of type 2 cytokine secretions and cell death. Using specific inhibitors in pathways, we confirmed that HDM promoted ILC2s activation via TLR4-ERK, p38, and NF-κB signaling pathways. CONCLUSIONS: Allergen HDM directly activates ILC2s through TLR4 mediated-ERK/p38/NF-κB signaling pathway. These findings provide new insights into how antigens propagate type 2 immune response via ILC2s, contributing to chronic inflammations in allergic airway diseases.

Formulation of a novel hot pot dipping sauce enriched with pepper seed press cake: Physical properties and flavor characteristics.

Novel hot pot dipping sauces enriched with pepper seed press cake (PSPC) in five proportions were prepared and evaluated in terms of their physical properties and flavor characteristics. The findings indicated that enriching the sauce increased the content of palmitic and linoleic acids, enhanced storage stability, and improved the rheological behavior and textural properties. The maximum concentration of N-heterocyclic compounds was detected when PSPC was added at 5 g/100 g and 10 g/100 g. A suitable amount of PSPC could improve the mouthfeel and intensify the flavors of umami and saltiness. In comparing sauces with different amounts of PSPC added (0-20 g/100 g), the quality, aroma, and taste were better and overall acceptance was highest when PSPC was added in the range of 5 g/100 g to 10 g/100 g. This study provides a possible application of PSPC for improving the flavor, texture, nutritional quality, and storage stability of hot pot dipping sauce.

Integrating lateral flow device with controllable gold in situ growth for sensitive detection of staphylococcal enterotoxin A in milk.

Gold nanoparticle-based lateral flow immunoassays (AuNP-LFIA) are widely used for pathogen monitoring to prevent foodborne illness outbreaks. However, conventional AuNP-LFIA exhibits poor sensitivity and limited quantitative capacity due to the low colorimetric signal intensity of AuNPs. Herein, we introduced a low-background gold in situ growth (GISG) strategy by lowering the pH of the growth solution to weaken the reducibility of hydroxylamine, thereby enhancing the sensitivity of AuNP-LFIA. Additionally, we developed a universal and manufacturable lateral flow device to streamline the GISG process. We applied this device to detect staphylococcal enterotoxin A (SEA), an exotoxin produced by Staphylococcus aureus. Under optimal conditions, the proposed device demonstrated superior practicality and excellent sensitivity for SEA detection, achieving a detection limit of 0.061 ng/mL with the total detection time of 37 min, showing 311 times more sensitive than the unamplified AuNP-LFIA. Furthermore, SEA detection in milk samples showed a strong correlation (R2 = 0.8845) with results obtained from a conventional ELISA kit. Therefore, this promising LFIA device offers a novel strategy with high sensitivity and practicality for in-field detection of Staphylococcus aureus and can be easily adapted for screening other foodborne pathogens.

Revitalizing Lithium Metal Batteries: Strategies for Tackling Dead Lithium Formation and Reactivation.

Lithium (Li) metal batteries (LMBs) are among the most promising candidates for future battery technology due to their high theoretical capacity and energy density. However, the formation of dendritic Li, characterized by needle-like structures, poses serious safety issues. To address this, numerous methods are developed to prevent Li dendrite formation. Another significant challenge in LMBs is the formation of inactive Li, known as dead Li, which significantly impacts their Coulombic efficiency and overall performance. This review explores the issues surrounding dead Li in LMBs, specifically focusing on electrically isolated Li metal and the repeatedly generated solid electrolyte interphase (SEI). Advanced techniques for characterizing inactive Li are discussed, alongside various strategies designed to activate or suppress dead Li, thus restoring battery capacity. The review summarizes recent advancements in research related to the activation, reuse, and prevention of dead Li, offering valuable insights for enhancing the efficiency and safety of LMBs. This comprehensive overview provides fundamental guidance for the practical application of Li metal anodes and similar metal batteries.

miR-6884-5p inhibits proliferation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in non-small cell lung cancer cells.

Background: Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is associated with a high mortality and morbidity rate. MicroRNAs participate in tumorigenesis, progression and metastasis of NSCLC. However, miR-6884-5p has not been previously studied. This study aimed to investigate the role of miR-6884-5p in NSCLC and explore its underlying mechanisms. Methods: We used miR-6884-5p mimics and inhibitors to assess its effects in NSCLC. miR-6884-5p expression levels in NSCLC cell lines were quantified using qRT-PCR. Cell viability was determined using a cell-counting kit 8 assay. Western blot analysis was employed to measure apoptotic proteins. The impact of miR-6884-5p on cell proliferation was assessed via colony formation assay. Furthermore, Transwell assays were utilized to visualize and quantify the effects of miR-6884-5p on NSCLC migration and invasion. Results: miR-6884-5p mimic significantly inhibited NSCLC cell proliferation to 71.21 % and 72.26 % of control at 5 days of culture time in H460 and HC9 cells (both p < 0.01), respectively, while miR-6884-5p inhibitor significantly promoted cell proliferation to 119.66 % and 126.44 % of control at 5 days of culture time in H460 and HC9 cells (both p < 0.05), respectively. In addition, miR-6884-5p promoted apoptosis by reducing the anti-apoptotic protein B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) protein and increasing apoptotic protein BCL2 associated X protein (all p < 0.01 at least). Moreover, miR-6884-5p effectively suppressed transforming growth factor ß1-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition, as evidenced by the restored expression of E-cadherin (p < 0.01), N-cadherin (p < 0.01) and Vimentin (p < 0.05), leading to the inhibition of migration and invasion in NSCLC cell lines. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that miR-6884-5p can inhibit NSCLC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic target for NSCLC treatment.

Advances in serum thyroid hormone levels and seizures.

Epilepsy, a common neurological disorder, is characterized by paroxysmal, short-term, repetitive, and stereotypical features, significantly impacting patients' quality of life. Currently, the pathogenesis of epilepsy remains incompletely understood. Changes in neuronal excitability, imbalances in glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels, alterations in the activity of GABA receptors, and dysfunction of GABA receptors are considered closely related to its occurrence. Thyroid hormones, vital for human growth and development, also play a crucial role in the nervous system. They mediate oxidative stress, influence reactive oxygen species production, affect mitochondrial function and neuronal excitability, and modulate glutamate and GABA levels. Also, they combine with thyroid hormone receptors and exert genomic effects by regulating the expression of numerous genes. However, once there are defects in thyroid hormone signaling, these defects may lead to severe neurodevelopmental disorders that are associated with an increased frequency of seizures. The impact of antiseizure medications (ASMs) on serum thyroid hormone levels, particularly traditional ASMs, has been extensively studied. It is reported that conventional ASMs such as phenobarbital, phenytoin sodium, carbamazepine, and valproate sodium were more likely to induce subclinical hypothyroidism (elevated TSH with normal FT4) or isolated hypothyroidism (decreased FT4 with normal TSH). However, the new ASMs, such as levetiracetam, have no effect on thyroid hormone levels. Together, seizures not only affect thyroid hormone levels, but abnormal thyroid hormone levels can also influence seizures. However, the precise mechanism underlying the interaction between serum thyroid hormone levels and seizures remains unclear. This review aims to explore the relationship between thyroid hormone levels and seizures, along with the underlying mechanisms.

Exploring risk factors for endocrine-related immune-related adverse events: Insights from meta-analysis and Mendelian randomization.

This study utilized meta-analysis and Mendelian randomization (MR) to identify risk factors for endocrine-related immune-related adverse events (EirAEs) and to ascertain whether EirAEs confer better prognosis of immunotherapy. The meta-analysis identified several risk factors for EirAEs, including elevated baseline TSH (OR = 1.30, 95% CI 1.10-1.53), positive TgAb (OR = 14.23, p < .001), positive TPOAb (OR = 3.75, p < .001), prior thyroid-related medical history (OR = 4.19), increased BMI (OR = 1.11), combination immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) therapy with targeted treatment (OR = 2.71, 95% CI 2.11-3.47), and dual ICI therapy (OR = 3.26, 95% CI 2.22-4.79). MR analysis further supported causalities between extreme BMI, hypothyroidism, and irAEs from a genetic perspective. In addition, cancer patients who experienced EirAEs exhibited significantly prolonged PFS (HR = 0.84, 95% CI 0.73-0.97) and OS (HR = 0.59, 95% CI 0.45-0.76) compared to those without. These findings provide valuable insights for clinical decision-making among healthcare professionals and offer direction for future research in this field.

Pathways regulating intestinal stem cells and potential therapeutic targets for radiation enteropathy.

Radiotherapy is a pivotal intervention for cancer patients, significantly impacting their treatment outcomes and survival prospects. Nevertheless, in the course of treating those with abdominal, pelvic, or retroperitoneal malignant tumors, the procedure inadvertently exposes adjacent intestinal tissues to radiation, posing risks of radiation-induced enteropathy upon reaching threshold doses. Stem cells within the intestinal crypts, through their controlled proliferation and differentiation, support the critical functions of the intestinal epithelium, ensuring efficient nutrient absorption while upholding its protective barrier properties. Intestinal stem cells (ISCs) regulation is intricately orchestrated by diverse signaling pathways, among which are the WNT, BMP, NOTCH, EGF, Hippo, Hedgehog and NF-κB, each contributing to the complex control of these cells' behavior. Complementing these pathways are additional regulators such as nutrient metabolic states, and the intestinal microbiota, all of which contribute to the fine-tuning of ISCs behavior in the intestinal crypts. It is the harmonious interplay among these signaling cascades and modulating elements that preserves the homeostasis of intestinal epithelial cells (IECs), thereby ensuring the gut's overall health and function. This review delves into the molecular underpinnings of how stem cells respond in the context of radiation enteropathy, aiming to illuminate potential biological targets for therapeutic intervention. Furthermore, we have compiled a summary of several current treatment methodologies. By unraveling these mechanisms and treatment methods, we aspire to furnish a roadmap for the development of novel therapeutics, advancing our capabilities in mitigating radiation-induced intestinal damage.

AHR activation relieves deoxynivalenol-induced disruption of porcine intestinal epithelial barrier functions.

Mycotoxins are ubiquitous natural pollutants that pose a serious threat to public health. Deoxynivalenol (DON) as one of the most prominent mycotoxins has a noticeable adverse effect on intestinal barrier function, which depends on the intestinal barrier integrity. However, the potential mechanisms and effective therapeutic strategies remain unclear. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) has been implicated in the modulation of intestinal barrier function and inflammation. The study aims to investigate the unique role of AHR in mediating DON-induced intestinal epithelial barrier function. In the current study, we revealed that DON triggered mitochondrial structural damage and functional impairment, leading to oxidative stress and apoptosis in porcine jejunal epithelial cells (IPEC-J2). DON altered the integrity of IPEC-J2 cells by disrupting the distribution and function of tight junction proteins. Additionally, DON activated TNF-α/NF-κB/MLCK signaling pathway, thereby eliciting inflammatory response. Notably, DON inhibited AHR nuclear translocation and attenuated xenobiotic response element promoter activity and its target genes. However, overexpression of AHR mitigated DON-induced disruption of intestinal epithelial barrier functions by suppressing TNF-α/NF-κB/MLCK pathway in IPEC-J2 cells. Our findings indicate that AHR regulates intestinal epithelial barrier function and therefore is a novel therapeutic molecule for intestinal disorders.

First Report of Fusarium falciforme Causing Fusarium Wilt on pepper in Hainan, China.

Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) is a significant vegetable crop, valued for its nutritional and economic importance (Pang et al. 2023). Pepper cultivation in China accounts for about 8-10% of the total vegetable planting area, contributing an output value of approximately 250 billion yuan. This makes pepper the leading vegetable in terms of both planting area and economic value. In December 2023, a total of 70% disease incidence of Fusarium wilt was observed in a 1200 m² pepper seed breeding base in Sanya City, Hainan Province, China (18°38'60″ N, 109°16'51″ E). Symptoms initially appeared as wilting on upper leaves. Subsequently, the base of the stem started to necrosis, browning, and gradually spreading upward along the stem. As the lesions expanded, the whole plant gradually wilted and died. Ten diseased plants were randomly selected from the most severely affected area (667 m²). Diseased tissues (5 mm²) were subsequently removed from the lesion edges of these plants, surface sterilized in 75% ethanol for 30 s, and rinsed with sterile distilled water three times, finally cultured on potato dextrose agar (PDA) at 25 °C. Six fungal isolates were obtained using the single-spore isolation method (HN-01 to HN-06). Colonies produced white aerial mycelia with apricot pigments in the PDA medium. The spore morphology and size were observed and measured using synthetic nutrient-poor agar (SNA) medium. Macroconidia were hyaline, slightly curved in shape with 3 or 4 septa, measuring 28.6 to 41.4 × 3.2 to 6.2 µm (av. = 34.8 ± 3.32 × 4.6 ± 0.85 um, n = 20). Microconidia were elongated, oval with 0 or 1 septum, and measured 11.2 to 16.8 × 2.6 to 5.8 µm (av. = 13.5 ± 1.47 × 4.12 ± 1.03 um, n = 20). Chlamydospores were spherical, terminal or intercalary, solitary or chain-forming, with diameters ranging from 2.8 to 10.5 um (av. = 5.8 ± 2.31 um, n = 20). For molecular identification, genomic DNA from all six isolates was extracted using the cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) method, and the internal transcribed spacer of rDNA (ITS), translation elongation factor 1-α (EF1-α), and RNA polymerase II beta subunit (RPB2) regions were amplified and sequenced using the primers ITS1/ITS4, EF-1/EF-2, and RPB2-5F/7cR (White et al. 1990; O'Donnell et al. 2010). The sequences were deposited in GenBank (ITS: PP779839, PP779840, PP779841, PP779842, PP779843, PP779844; EF1-α: PP797138, PP797139, PP797140, PP797141, PP797142, PP797143; RPB2: PP797144, PP797145, PP797146, PP797147, PP797148, PP797149). The sequences of all three genes showed 99 to 100% similarity with Fusarium falciforme and other closely related Fusarium species (ITS: PP735125, EF1-α: OP163897 and RPB2: MF467484). A maximum likelihood phylogenetic tree was constructed based on the ITS, EF1-α, and RPB2 sequences of all isolates, along with other closely related Fusarium species. Based on morphological and phylogenetic characteristics, all isolates were identified as F. falciforme (Xu et al. 2023; Wang et al. 2023). Ten Pepper inbred line A23-41 (5 for the inoculation treatment and 5 for the control) were tested for pathogenicity using three representative isolates: HN-01, HN-02, and HN-03. A total of 20 ul of spore suspension with concentration 106 spores/ml was injected near the soil surface of the stem, while the control treatment was inoculated with 20 µl of sterile water. The plants were placed in a climatic chamber at RH80-90% and 25/20 °C (day/night) after inoculation. The experiment was repeated three times. After 10 days, Inoculated plants stem developed necrosis, browning, while the control group remained asymptomatic. The fungus reisolated from the artificially infected stems was identified through EF1-α and RPB2 sequence analysis as F. falciforme, thus fulfilling Koch's postulates. Fusarium falciforme has been previoulsy reported as causing various diseases on different hosts in several countries, including Korea (Kang et al., 2024), Malaysia (Balasubramaniam et al., 2023), and Mexico (Payán-Arzapalo et al., 2024). To the best of our knowledge, this is the initial report demonstrating that F. falciforme causes Fusarium wilt on peppers in China. The study results can provide the basis for future research on the occurrence, prevention, and management of this disease.

Moderating effects of general self-efficacy on courtesy stigma and anxiety and depressive symptoms of parents of children with autism spectrum disorder.

Background: Stigma, anxiety and depressive symptoms are highly prevalent in parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and may have a detrimental impact on the rehabilitation and treatment of children with ASD, ultimately leading to more behavioral issues and higher rates of disability. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to identify the association between general self-efficacy, courtesy stigma, and anxiety and depressive symptoms, and to further discuss whether general self-efficacy moderated the association between courtesy stigma and anxiety and depressive symptoms in parents of children with ASD. Methods: A total of 409 parents of children with ASD from Lianyungang, Jiangsu Province, Eastern China participated in a cross-sectional survey. A structured questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic characteristics, courtesy stigma, general self-efficacy, anxiety symptoms, and depressive symptoms. Hierarchical multiple regression was used to assess the associations of courtesy stigma, general self-efficacy and courtesy stigma × general self-efficacy interaction with anxiety and depressive symptoms. Simple slope analysis was used to visualize the interaction. Results: The courtesy stigma of parents of children with ASD was positively correlated with anxiety (B = 0.374, P < 0.001) and depressive symptoms (B = 0.366, P < 0.001). General self-efficacy was negatively correlated with anxiety (B = -0.200, P < 0.001) and depressive symptoms (B = -0.210, P < 0.001). The association between courtesy stigma and anxiety symptoms was different in the high (1 standard deviation (SD) above the mean, b = 0.258, standard error (SE) = 0.056, t = 4.567, P < 0.001) and low (1 SD below the mean, b = 0.470, SE = 0.053, t = 8.870, P < 0.001) groups of general self-efficacy. In addition, the association between courtesy stigma and depressive symptoms was also different in the high (1 SD above the mean, b = 0.241, SE = 0.056, t = 4.268, P < 0.001) and low (1 SD below the mean, b = 0.469, SE = 0.053, t = 8.844, P < 0.001) groups of general self-efficacy. Conclusions: General self-efficacy could moderate the impact of courtesy stigma on anxiety and depressive symptoms. Therefore, among parents of children with ASD who experienced high courtesy stigma, enhancing general self-efficacy could be an effective strategy to reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms in this population.

Characterization of the Complete Mitochondrial Genome of Pleurogenoides japonicus (Digenea, Pleurogenidae): Comparison With the Members of Microphalloidea and Phylogenetic Implications.

Pleurogenoides japonicus (Trematoda: Microphalloidea) is an important parasite in wood frogs with high infection rates and significant ecological, economic, and societal importance. The scarcity of molecular data for these parasites severely limits population genetics and phylogenetic studies. In the present study, for the first time, we determined and described the entire mitochondrial (mt) genome of P. japonicus as the first representative of the family Pleurogenidae. The entire mt genome of P. japonicus was circular, with 15,043 bp (GenBank accession number OR900118), containing 36 genes, comprising 12 protein-coding genes (cox1-3, nad1-6, nad4L, cytb, and atp6), two ribosomal RNA genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, and two non-coding regions. There were 23 intergenic spacers, ranging from 2 to 162 bp, and only one 40 bp overlap between nad4L and nad4 genes in the P. japonicus mt genome. The nucleotide composition of P. japonicus mt genome exhibited a strong AT bias with a 63.75% A + T content, while the AT- and GC-skews were - 0.435 and 0.407, respectively. Comparative analysis demonstrated that the P. japonicus mt genome shared the most common characteristics with Microphalloidea trematodes, and the cox1 gene was the longest and most conserved gene in Microphalloidea trematodes. The gene arrangements of Xiphidiata trematodes were of the same order based on protein-coding genes and rRNA genes, except for tRNA. More than two gene arrangement types exist in Echinostomata and Xiphidiata, and the gene rearrangement events mainly occurred in "trnE-trnG" and "trnG-trnE". Phylogenetic analysis suggested that trematodes of the family Pleurogenidae clustered more with Prosthogonimidae than Eucotylidae. The mt genome data of P. japonicus provide an accurate genetic marker for further studies of Xiphidiata trematodes.

Balloon-Shaped SMF Blood Glucose Concentration and Temperature Sensor Based on Core-Offset Structure.

A blood glucose concentration and temperature sensor with a balloon-shaped single-mode fiber (SMF) based on a core-offset structure is proposed and experimentally demonstrated. The balloon-shaped SMF is created by offset-fusing a straight-line SMF between two other SMFs, thereby forming a Mach-Zehnder interferometer (MZI). The core-offset structure can effectively excite higher-order cladding modes. The experimental results showed that the maximum sensitivity of blood glucose concentration was 0.331 nm/(mmol/l) and the maximum sensitivity of temperature was 0.216 nm/°C when the offset distance was 10 µm. Dual-parameter measurement was achieved through a dual-parameter matrix. In addition, the sensor has characteristics such as simple structure, low cost, good stability, and electromagnetic interference resistance, making it potentially valuable for diagnosing high blood glucose and related conditions.

Polyphosphoric Acid-Promoted Efficient Synthesis of Cinnamides via Aldol Condensation of Amide.

Cinnamides are common core structures that exist in a great number of pharmaceuticals and natural products. The development of efficient methods for preparing cinnamides is in great need. We report herein an efficient polyphosphoric acid (PPA)-promoted direct aldol condensation of an amide for the convenient and straightforward preparation of cinnamides. A variety of cinnamides were obtained in moderate-to-excellent yields (65-89%). This strategy features the use of equivalent amides and a short reaction time.

Epidemiological characteristics of post-traumatic stress symptoms and its influence on length of hospital stay in inpatients with traumatic fractures in Zunyi, China.

Objectives: To investigate the clinical epidemiological characteristics and occurrence of post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) in patients with traumatic fractures, we sought to analyze the factors that influence the prognosis of a length of hospital stay (LOS) and provide valuable insights to prevent PTSS in fracture patients and improve their prognosis. Methods: Inpatients with traumatic fractures were recruited from a third-class comprehensive general hospital in southwest China between November 2019 and October 2020. Case data of traumatic fracture patients were collected, and a questionnaire that included general information and basic fracture details was completed. The post-traumatic stress disorder Self-rating Scale was used to assess PTSS among the fracture inpatients. Results: A total of 204 inpatients who experienced traumatic fractures were included in this study. Falls accounted for the largest proportion of traumatic fractures. A Cox's regression analysis revealed that serious injury [Hazard Ratio (HR) = 2.44, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.33-4.46], critical illness during hospitalization (HR = 1.70, 95% CI: 1.13-2.54), and undergoing two surgeries (HR = 1.87, 95% CI: 1.20-2.93) were risk factors for longer LOS. Among the fracture patients, 30.39% exhibited positive PTSD symptoms, and physical activity during the fracture [Odds Ratio (OR) = 0.63, 95% CI: 0.45-0.88] and increased pain (OR = 3.34, 95% CI: 1.82-6.11) were identified as influencing factors. Conclusions: Given the high detection rate of PTSS following traumatic fractures, it is crucial for relevant departments to implement targeted measures to protect high risk individuals. Furthermore, strengthening the care provided to the patients' physical and mental health is urgently needed to reduce the incidence of PTSS.

Network Pharmacology-Based Strategy to Explore the Effect and Mechanism of Zhizhu Granule Improving Glucose-Lipid Metabolism in Rats with Metabolic Syndrome.

Objective: To explore the mechanism of the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Zhizhu granule (ZZG), in treating metabolic syndrome (MS) based on network pharmacology and pharmacodynamic experiment. Materials and Methods: Network pharmacology combined with a pharmacodynamic experiment was used to elucidate the therapeutic mechanism of ZZG in MS. Serum samples were collected from rats with MS, induced by a high-sugar-fat-salt diet (HSFSD) combined with streptozotocin (STZ), to measure the levels of biochemical markers. The glucose (GLU), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were detected. The liver tissue of rats was used for histological examination and Western blot analysis. Results: Network pharmacology analysis generated 69 drug-disease common targets and 10 hub genes closely related to ZZG against MS. KEGG pathway analysis revealed that the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway was the most potential pathway, which took part in the therapeutic mechanisms. In the animal experiments section, the therapeutic effect of ZZG on MS and the therapeutic pathway of ZZG on MS were verified. ZZG could significantly decrease the body weight, TC, TG, LDL-C and GLU levels in MS rats (all p<0.01), alleviate hepatocyte steatosis and decrease liver lipid droplet deposition. Western blot analysis indicated that compared with the model group, the expression levels of PI3K, AKT, and IRS-1 protein were significantly increased (all p<0.05), and the FOXO-1 was significantly decreased (all p<0.05) in the ZZG group. Conclusion: ZZG can improve glucose-lipid metabolism disorder in rats with metabolic syndrome. The reported results provide experimental evidence for ZZG in the treatment of MS.