An open-pore MFI zeolite nanosheet-modified separator with Li-ion flux regulation for lithium-metal batteries.

Separator modification has become one of the most facile and promising methods to inhibit Li dendrite formation. Herein, an open-pore MFI zeolite nanosheet-modified polyacrylonitrile (open-pore MFI NSs@PAN) separator was prepared via the combination of vacuum filtration and the electrospinning technique. The straight channels in the MFI NSs, the fluid channels formed by the stacking of the MFI NSs and the interconnected network channels formed by the interweaving of the PAN nanofibers jointly constructed a micro/nano pore structure, which provides sufficient Li+ transport channels and enables uniform Li+ flux. Consequently, the open-pore MFI NSs@PAN separator-based cell delivers a stable and uniform Li deposition, demonstrating a more stable cycle-life and better rate capability. Redistributing Li+ flux through straight channel zeolite nanosheets provides a powerful method for suppressing Li dendrites, presenting enormous potential for promoting the commercial application of lithium metal batteries.

Socioeconomic factors, perceived stress, and social support effect on neonatal nurse burnout in China: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Neonatal nurses' working environments are highly stressful, and burnout is common. This study examines the effect of socioeconomic factors, perceived stress, and social support on neonatal nurse burnout. METHODS: A total of 311 neonatal nurses participated in this study. They were administered a validated Maslach Burnout Inventory. The study employed a 14-item perceived stress scale (PSS-14) and a social support rate scale (SSRS) to examine stress, socioeconomic factors, and lifestyles. RESULTS: Of the neonatal nurses, 40.19% had burnout, 89.60% had mild burnout, and 10.40% had moderate burnout; no neonatal nurse experienced severe burnout. Young nurses and those with low technical skills, poor interpersonal relationships, irregular diet, and insufficient rest were exposed to burnout (all p < 0.05).Most burnout nurses experienced moderate-severe perceived stress, and their PSS-14 scores were higher (all p < 0.05).The scores for objective social support, subjective social support, utilization of social support, total SSRS scores, and the level of social support were all lower in burnout nurses (all p < 0.05). Perceived stress was correlated positively and significantly with emotional exhaustion and personal accomplishment (all p < 0.05). Social support correlated significantly with and reduced personal accomplishments (p < 0.05). Age, poor interpersonal relationships, perceived stress, and social support were all independent factors associated with neonatal nurse burnout (all p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of burnout in neonatal nurses was higher than average. Socioeconomic factors, higher perceived stress, and lower social support contribute to neonatal nurse burnout. Nursing managers should pay attention to socioeconomic factors, perceived stress, and social support among neonatal nurses and employ strategies to reduce neonatal nurse burnout.

The Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway regulates antioxidant defenses of Ctenopharyngodon idella induced by bacterial infection.

Respiratory burst is a process involving rapid production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) for eliminating invading pathogens. However, excessive ROS production can be fatal to the host organism. The Keap1-Nrf2-ARE (Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 [Keap1]; Nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-like 2 [Nrf2]; Antioxidant responsive element [ARE]) signaling pathway plays an important role in alleviating oxidative stress and preserving cellular homeostasis. However, the role of Keap1 during bacterial infection in fish remains unclear. In this study, we cloned and characterized the Keap1 gene of grass carp (CiKeap1) for the first time. CiKeap1 encodes a 593-amino acid protein of the Keap1b type. The tissue distribution analysis data revealed that the brain contains the highest transcription level of Keap1, followed by the heart and liver. The infection of Aeromonas hydrophila and Staphylococcus aureus obviously modulated the gene transcription and protein expression levels of Keap1, which suggested that the CiKeap1 participates in antibacterial immune responses. Furthermore, in vitro overexpression assays clarified the defensive and regular roles of CiKeap1 in maintaining host redox homeostasis in response to bacterial infection through the Keap1-Nrf2-ARE signaling pathway. In conclusion, the present results provide an expanded perspective on the role of Keap1 in teleost immunology that can guide healthy farming cultivation of grass carp.

Letrozole + Ziwu Liuzhu Transcutaneous Electrical Acupoint Stimulation Improves Ovulation-Induced Pregnancy Rate in Obese Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Prospective Cohort Study.

Objective: This study investigated the effect of letrozole with/without meridian-infusion percutaneous electrical stimulation on the rates of ovulation-induced pregnancy in patients with obese polycystic ovary syndrome (obPCOS). Materials and Methods: Patients with obPCOS, ages 20-40, each with a body mass index (BMI) ≥24 kg/m2, and/or waist circumference ≥80 cm, and at least 1 side tubal patency were enrolled at the Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, China. They were divided into 2 groups: ZLT [Ziwu Liuzhu + transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation] and control. Baseline conditions and pregnancy status were collected for all patients. Multivariate Cox regression analysis and sensitivity analysis of propensity score matching (PSM) were performed for the groups after multiple interpolations. Results: From July 2021 to September 2022, 345 patients with obPCOS were recruited: 53 cases/69 cycles in the ZLT group and 292 cases/396 cycles in the control group. The 2 sets of baselines were flush. The anovulatory cycle rates were: ZLT, 2.89% (2/69); and control, 1.77% (7/396); P > 0.05. Multifollicle growth-cycle rates were: ZLT, 0% (0/69); and control, 0.76% (3/396); P > 0.05. Multivariate COX regression analysis showed adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.11 (1.19, 3.73); P = 0.011. Multivariate Cox regression analysis with multiple imputation showed aHR 95% CI: 2.11 (1.19, 3.73); P = 0.013. In the overweight group (24-28 kg/m2), the pregnancy rate of the control and ZLT groups were 20.2% and 32.3%, respectively, aHR 95% CI: 1.76 (0.87,3.55); P = 0.113. In the obese cohort (≥ 28 kg/m2), the control and ZLT groups, pregnancy rates were 10.7% and 27.3%, respectively, aHR 95% CI: 3.46 (1.21, 9.92); P = 0.021; (Pfor interaction = 0.369). The caliper value was set as 0.2 for BMI and antral-follicle count, and PSM was performed at 1:1, aHR 95%CI: 2.45 (1.01, 5.96); P = 0.048. Conclusions: Letrazole + ZLT had a positive effect on ovulation-induced pregnancy rates in patients with obPCOS.

Highly Efficient Oxidation of Propane at Low Temperature over a Pt-Based Catalyst by Optimization Support.

Pt-based catalysts have attracted widespread attention in environmental protection applications, especially in the catalytic destruction of light alkane pollutants. However, developing a satisfying platinum catalyst with high activity, excellent water-resistance, and practical suitability for hydrocarbon combustion at low temperature is challenging. In this study, the Pt catalyst supported on the selected Nb2O5 oxide exhibited an efficient catalytic activity in propane oxidation and exceeded that of most catalysts reported in the literature. More importantly, the Pt/Nb2O5 catalyst maintained excellent activity and durability even after high-temperature aging at 700 °C and under harsh working conditions, such as a certain degree of moisture, high space velocity, and composite pollutants. The excellent performance of the Pt/Nb2O5 catalyst was attributed to the abundant metallic Pt species stabilized on the surface of Nb2O5, which prompted the C-H bond dissociation ability as the rate-determining step. Furthermore, propane was initially activated via oxidehydrogenation and followed the acrylate species path as a more efficient propane oxidation path on the Pt/Nb2O5 surface. Overall, Pt/Nb2O5 can be considered a promising catalyst for the catalytic oxidation of alkanes from industrial sources and could provide inspiration for designing superb catalysts for the oxidation of light alkanes.

The effects of physical activity on the prevention of mental illness in college students / Los efectos de la actividad física en la prevención de enfermedades mentales en estudiantes universitarios

College students are the driving force behind national and social progress. They frequently face a great deal of mental and psychological pressure. If the pressure is not relieved promptly, it will significantly impact their mental health. This study aims to examine the preventative effect of sports training on the mental health diseases of college students. In China, mental health issues are receiving increasing attention and psychological pressure. The students were screened using the SCL-90 psychological test, and those without significant psychological illness were chosen as research participants. Before and after the experiment, the Simple mood State Scale (POMS) was measured twice; the influence of different sports on the mood state of college students is the subject of this study. The experiment was conducted on 200 Chinese college students. None of the students was afflicted with any unusual diseases. The invalid questionnaire and students who interrupted the experiment due to exceptional circumstances were disqualified. The final subjects of the experiment were 194 first-year students. This paper investigates the relationship between college students' participation in sports and their mental health status. Before and after the comparison, there is a significant difference (P 0.05), as determined by the difference test. It has been found that college students who frequently participate in sports have significantly better mental health than those who do not. They have high self-awareness and are effective at eliminating negative emotions such as anxiety and depression. Exercising is a method of proving their worth. Through psychological transfer, students can use psychological hints to motivate themselves to achieve their goals, thereby enhancing their self-confidence in other endeavours. Enhancing self-confidence will play a significant role in promoting the study, work, and life of college students.(AU)

Distribution of interstitial cells of Cajal in the Esophagus and change in distribution after thoracic trauma.

Interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs) function as pacemaker cells in the gastrointestinal tract. Acute thoracic trauma is a common and lethal cause of death due to physical trauma caused by traffic accidents. This study aimed to explore the distribution of esophageal ICCs and distribution changes observed after acute thoracic trauma. Thirty rabbits were randomly divided into a control group and two study groups. The control group animals underwent an esophagectomy. All animals in the study groups underwent right chest puncture using the Hopkinson bar technique. The study groups were subjected to esophagectomy 24 and 72 h after chest puncture. Distribution, morphology, and density of esophageal ICCs were detected using transmission electron microscopy, toluidine blue staining, and immunohistochemistry. Apoptosis of esophageal ICCs was evaluated using the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) dUTP Nick-End Labeling assay. Western blotting and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction were used to detect changes in the SCF/c-kit signaling pathway. Esophageal ICCs distribution and SCF/c-kit signal pathway decreased from the upper part to the lower part in both physiological state and after thoracic trauma. In contrast, death of ICCs increased from the upper part to the lower part, both in physiological and injured state (P < 0.05). After thoracic trauma, increased ICCs and decreased death of ICCs in all parts of the esophagus (P < 0.05) were observed. The observed distribution and changes in esophageal ICCs would have an impact on motility and motility disorders of the esophagus.

Total Oxidation of Light Alkane over Phosphate-Modified Pt/CeO2 Catalysts.

Developing efficient catalysts for the total oxidation of light alkane at low temperatures is challenging. In this study, superior catalytic performance in the total oxidation of light alkane was achieved by modulating the acidity and redox property of a Pt/CeO2 catalyst through phosphorus modification. Surface modification with phosphorus resulted in electron withdrawal from Pt, leading to platinum species with high valency and the generation of Brönsted acid sites, leading to increased acidity of the Pt/CeO2 catalyst. Consequently, the ability of the Pt/CeO2 catalyst to activate the C-H bond increased with increasing P content in the catalyst owing to the synergistic effect of Ptδ+-(CeO2-POx)δ- dipolar catalytic sites. In contrast, the redox property of the Pt/CeO2 catalyst weakened at first; subsequently, it was partially restored owing to the recovery of a part of the bare ceria surface with increasing P content. The turnover frequency in propane oxidation over the phosphate-modified Pt/CeO2 catalyst with a P/Ce atomic ratio of 0.06 was 10-fold higher than that over the unmodified Pt/CeO2 catalyst at 220 °C. This comprehensive study not only sheds light on the mechanism underlying the surface modification process but also offers a strategy for realizing higher catalytic activity in the total oxidation of light alkanes.

Lifestyle and Social Factors Exacerbated on the Prevalence of Mood Disorders and Functional Dyspepsia Among Neonatal Nurses in China.

Background: Nursing is a high-stress occupation that can have an impact on mental health, particularly for neonatal nurses. Job-related stress factors and work-related behaviors have played a critical role in nurses' mental health. This study aimed to explore the prevalence of mood disorders and the impact of social factors, lifestyle on mood disorders among neonatal nurses. Methods: A total of 260 participants comprising neonatal nurses and nurses who work in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) were recruited. Data were collected using a validated generalized anxiety disorder questionnaire, patient health questionnaire-9, Pittsburgh sleep quality index, and social factors and lifestyle assessments. Results: In total, 49.23% of neonatal nurses exhibited mood disorders, particularly a combination of depression and anxiety. Female, poor interpersonal relationships and unhappy marital status, preference for smoking, alcohol, irregular diet, and poor sleep were common in neonatology nurses who exhibited mood disorders; preference for coffee and tea were lower in neonatology nurses without mood disorders (all P < 0.05). Interpersonal relationships, marital status, irregular diet, and poor sleep were independent factors associated with mood disorders among neonatal nurses (all P < 0.05). Mood disorders presented as functional dyspepsia (FD) among 50.78% of the participants (P < 0.05). Poor sleep and preference for smoking were common among neonatal nurses who had FD with mood disorders (all P < 0.05). Furthermore, the preference for sugary beverages was lower in participants with FD and mood disorders (P < 0.05). Poor sleep was independently associated with FD with mood disorders in neonatology nurses (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Prevalence of anxiety and depression was higher among neonatal nurses. Furthermore, most cases of mood disorders presented as FD. Thus, social factors and lifestyle have an impact on mood disorders which can manifest through somatic symptoms.

Changes in esophagus interstitial cells of Cajal in response to acute stress.

BACKGROUND: Thoracic trauma is common, and traffic accident-related traumatic injury can cause acute stress leading to esophageal motility disorders. Interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs) are regarded as gastrointestinal pacemaker cells. AIM: This study explored the mechanism underlying changes in lower esophagus ICCs under acute stress conditions. METHODS: Fifty adult rabbits, randomly divided into one healthy control and four study groups, were subjected to right chest puncture using a Hopkinson bar. Thereafter, one group was immediately subjected to lower esophagectomy, whereas the other three groups were maintained for 24, 48 and 72 h after puncture and subjected to lower esophagectomy. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect ICC distribution, morphology and density, and TUNEL assays were used to determine ICC apoptosis. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) were used to measure cortisol, epinephrine, dopamine, IL-9, cholecystokinin (CCK) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). Western blotting and RT-PCR were performed to detect changes in SCF/c-kit and nNOS pathways. RESULTS: After puncture, lung tissue was hemorrhaged, alveoli in puncture areas were destroyed, esophageal pH was decreased, and serum cortisol, epinephrine and dopamine levels increased. ICC numbers increased and apoptotic ICCs decreased in all stress groups after puncture (all p < .01). IL-9, CCK and VIP levels in lower esophagus tissue were increased after puncture (all p < .01). Moreover, SCF/c-kit and nNOS pathways were upregulated in response to stress (all p < .01). CONCLUSIONS: Acute stress promotes increases in lower esophageal ICCs that might affect esophagus ICC functions and esophageal motility.

Research on the sustainable development of physical education students' exercise in colleges and universities / Pesquisa sobre o desenvolvimento sustentável do exercício de estudantes de educação física em faculdades e universidades / Investigación sobre el desarrollo sostenible del ejercicio de estudiantes de educación física en colegios y universidades

ABSTRACT Introduction: The essence of sustainable development is ecological civilization. The entire modern development, including sports in colleges and universities, is built based on resource conservation, enhanced environmental support capabilities, and a virtuous ecological environment cycle to achieve sustainable economic and social development. Objective: Looking at the development history of sports in Chinese colleges and universities for more than 50 years, there have been many successful experiences in human resource development, and there are also many problems that need to be solved. Methods: The author took 442 people from 4 provinces as the survey object, researched and discussed the evaluation indicators of the sustainable development of sports in colleges and universities. After factor analysis and professional theoretical research, a total of 15 indicators in 5 categories were established: science and technology, moral education, system Standard category, economic, competitive development category, external input category, and the coach training system category that eliminates "inbreeding." Results: The author found in the research that both sports and non-sports families in China are unwilling to engage in sports and college sports for their children. The main reasons are traditional ideological issues, sports social status issues, and athletes' education issues. Among them, coaches, the "inbreeding" training system is one of the main reasons that affect the sports talent resources of colleges and universities in China. Conclusions: There can be at least five types of evaluation indicators for the sustainable development of sports in Chinese colleges and universities: science and technology and ethics education, institutional norms, economic and competitive development, external investment, and a coach training system that eliminates inbreeding. The income of sports families is generally lower than that of non-sports families, and their education level is also lower. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment results.

RESUMO Antecedentes: A essência do desenvolvimento sustentável é a civilização ecológica Todo o desenvolvimento moderno, incluindo esportes universitários, é baseado na economia de recursos, fortalecimento da capacidade de suporte ambiental e realização do desenvolvimento econômico e social sustentável do ciclo ecológico e ambiental. Objetivo: revisar o curso de desenvolvimento de educação física da universidade chinesa por mais de 50 anos, há muitas experiências bem-sucedidas no desenvolvimento de recursos humanos e muitos problemas a serem resolvidos. Métodos: 442 pessoas de 4 províncias foram investigadas para conhecer o índice de avaliação do desenvolvimento sustentável da educação física universitária. Por meio da análise fatorial e da pesquisa da teoria profissional, foram determinados 15 índices de cinco categorias principais: ciência e tecnologia, educação moral, normas institucionais, economia, desenvolvimento competitivo, insumos externos e eliminação da consanguinidade. Resultados: as famílias esportivas e não esportivas não estão dispostas a permitir que seus filhos participem de atividades esportivas universitárias, sendo os principais motivos as ideias tradicionais, o status social do esporte e a educação dos atletas. Entre eles, o sistema de treinamento "consanguíneo" de treinadores é um dos principais motivos que afetam os recursos de talentos esportivos das universidades chinesas. Conclusão: O índice de avaliação do desenvolvimento sustentável da educação física nas universidades chinesas pode ser dividido em pelo menos cinco categorias: educação científica e ética, normas institucionais, desenvolvimento econômico e competitivo, investimento externo, eliminação do sistema endógamo de treinamento de treinadores. A renda das famílias que praticam esportes é geralmente menor do que a das não praticantes, e o nível de educação também é baixo. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos: investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

RESUMEN Antecedentes: la esencia del desarrollo sostenible es la civilización ecológica. Todo el desarrollo moderno, incluidos los deportes universitarios, se basa en el ahorro de recursos, el fortalecimiento de la capacidad de apoyo ambiental y la realización del desarrollo económico y social sostenible del ciclo ecológico y ambiental. Objetivo: revisar el curso de desarrollo de la educación física universitaria en China durante más de 50 años, hay muchas experiencias exitosas en el desarrollo de los recursos humanos, y hay muchos problemas que resolver. Métodos: 442 personas de 4 provincias fueron investigadas para conocerel índice de evaluación del desarrollo sostenible de la educación física universitaria. A través del análisis factorial y la investigación de la teoría profesional, se han determinado 15 índices de cinco categorías principales: ciencia y tecnología, educación moral, normas institucionales, economía, desarrollo competitivo, insumos externos y eliminación de la endogamia. Resultados: tanto las familias deportivas como las no deportivas no están dispuestas a que sus hijos participen en actividades deportivas universitarias. Las principales razones son las ideas tradicionales, la condición social deportiva y la educación de los atletas. Entre ellas, el sistema de formación de "endogamia" de los entrenadores es una de las principales razones que afectan a los recursos de talentos deportivos de las universidades chinas. Conclusión: el índice de evaluación del desarrollo sostenible de la educación física en las universidades de China puede dividirse en al menos cinco categorías: educación científica y ética, normas institucionales, desarrollo económico y competitivo, inversión externa, eliminación del sistema de formación de entrenadores endogámico. Los ingresos de las familias deportivas son generalmente inferiores a los de las familias no deportivas, y el nivel de educación también es bajo. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos: investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

Special physical training for strengthening athletes' physical fitness and sports ability / Treinamento físico especial para o fortalecimento do preparo físico e da habilidade esportiva de atletas / Entrenamiento físico especial para el fortalecimiento de la preparación física y de la habilidad deportiva de atletas

ABSTRACT Introduction: Special physical exercise and exceptional physical fitness are an assuredly positive combination for winning. Good exceptional physical fitness is an essential prerequisite for athletes to win competitions. Objective: This study mainly explores the relationship between the functional performance of specialized sports athletes and the performance of specific physical fitness to optimize the functional training and specific physical fitness training system of male tennis players. Methods: The article selects six tennis players as the research objects and conducts active movement monitoring and physical fitness training. Results: Athletes have poor stability in the core area and poor flexion flexibility of both hips and ankles in a symmetrical posture. There is a significant correlation between the functional movement screening test and the tennis-specific physical fitness performance test results. Conclusions: Only by studying body shape and function can we guide the diagnoses and evaluation of an athlete's physical function. We need to formulate reasonable strengthening measures based on the analysis of body shape and function. Only in this way can the athlete's body shape and physical function be effectively enhanced. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment results.

RESUMO Introdução: Exercícios físicos especiais e um preparo físico excepcional são uma combinação que garante ganhos no esporte. Um bom preparo físico é prerrequisito essencial para que atletas vençam em competições. Objetivo: Este estudo analisa principalmente a relação entre o desempenho funcional de atletas de esportes especializados e o desempenho de um preparo físico específico para otimizar o treinamento funcional e o sistema de preparo físico específico de jogadores de tênis do sexo masculino. Métodos: o estudo selecionou seis jogadores de tênis como objeto de pesquisa e conduziu monitoramento de movimentos ativo e treinamento de preparo físico. Resultados: Atletas tem baixa estabilidade na área core e pouca elasticidade de flexão no quadril e no tornozelo em uma postura simétrica. Há uma correlação importante entre o teste de rastreamento do movimento funcional e os resultados de testes de desempenho de preparo físico específicos para o tênis. Conclusões: Poderemos orientar o diagnóstico e a avaliação da função física de um atleta apenas se estudarmos a forma e a função corporal. É necessário que formulemos medidas de fortalecimento racionais com base na análise de forma e função corporal. Apenas assim a forma e a função corporal de atletas podem ser aprimoradas. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos - investigação de resultados de tratamento.

RESUMEN Introducción: Ejercicios físicos especiales y una preparación física excepcional son una combinación de garantiza ganancias en el deporte. Una buena preparación física es un prerrequisito esencial para que atletas ganen en competiciones. Objetivo: Este estudio analiza principalmente la relación entre el rendimiento funcional de atletas de deportes especializados y el rendimiento de una preparación física específica para optimizar el entrenamiento funcional y el sistema de preparación física específica de jugadores de tenis del sexo masculino. Métodos: El estudio seleccionó seis jugadores de tenis como objeto de investigación y condujo la supervisión activa de movimientos y entrenamiento de preparación física. Resultados: Atletas tiene baja estabilidad en el área core y poca elasticidad de flexión en el cuadril y en el tobillo en una postura simétrica. Hay una correlación importante entre la Evaluación Funcional del Movimiento y los resultados de test de rendimiento de preparación física específicos para el tenis. Conclusión: Podremos orientar el diagnostico y la evaluación de la función física de un atleta apenas si estudiamos la forma y la función corporal. Es necesario que formulemos medidas de fortalecimiento racionales con base en el análisis de forma y función corporal. Apenas de esa manera pueden primorearse la forma y la función corporal de atletas. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos - investigación de resultados de tratamiento.

Contribution of Interstitial Cells of Cajal to Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Risk.

BACKGROUND Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), which originate from interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs), are one of most common mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract. This study explored the impact of ICCs and immunological markers on GIST risk. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 122 patients diagnosed with GISTs who underwent surgery were recruited for the study. Demographic and clinical information, including modified NIH criteria, sex, age, tumor site, and tumor size, of all patients were collected. GIST risk was assessed using the modified NIH risk classification for primary GISTs. Paraffin-embedded GIST specimens were evaluated by hematoxylin-eosin staining and ICCs immunohistochemistry. RESULTS According to the modified NIH criteria, most GIST cases (44 cases, 36.07%) were at very low risk. Females had greater incidence of high-risk GISTs (P<0.05). The mean age at GIST diagnosis was 58.69±9.90 years and had no impact on GIST risk (P>0.05). Most GISTs were located in the stomach (87 cases, 71.73%), and the size of the tumors varied (0.5-20 cm). CD117/c-kit and CD34 were specific immuno-markers for ICCs and GIST. Most patients with GIST were CD117-positive (115 cases, 94.26%), 111 cases (90.98%) were CD34-positive, and 109 cases (89.34%) were positive for both CD117/c-kit and CD34. With increasing GIST risk, CD117 (also named c-k0it) and CD34 expression levels increased, as well as the number of ICCs (all P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS ICCs have a great impact on GISTs incidence. CD117/c-kit and CD34 expression, as well ICCs levels, appear to affect GIST risk.

Clinical characteristics of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in patients out of Wuhan from China: a case control study.

BACKGROUND: A large-scale global outbreak of coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) out of Wuhan, from China, occurred in January 2020. To examine the clinical characteristics of COVID-19 in infected patients out of Wuhan, from China. METHODS: Thirteen patients were confirmed to be infected with novel coronavirus-2019 (2019-nCoV) between January 27 and February 8, 2020, in Baoji city, Shannxi, northwestern China. Epidemiological and clinical information, and computed to morphology imaging data from all COVID-19 patients were collected; cases were divided into two groups according to the severity of infection (mild or severe). RESULTS: Nine (9/13) COVID-19 patients exhibited mild disease severity, and defined as second-generation human-to-human transmission cases. Most patients (11/13) had a history of travel to or from Wuhan. There were no differences in sex and age between the mild and severe cases (all P > 0.05). A moderate degree of fever (11/13), cough (13/13), and fatigue (8/13) were common symptoms; however, there was no statistical difference between mild and severe cases in this regard (all P > 0.05). Oxyhemoglobin saturation and oxygenation index decreased, and C-reactive protein (CRP) and serum amyloid A (SAA) levels were elevated in all patients with COVID-19 infection, with statistically significant differences between those with severe disease and mild infection (all P < 0.05). Twelve of 13 COVID-19 patients exhibited changes in chest CT imaging features, and time course changes were different between mild and severe cases (all P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Most cases of COVID-19 infection were second-generation human-to-human transmissions from Wuhan and were mild in severity. The clinical characteristics of COVID-19 varied. Oxyhemoglobin saturation, oxygenation index, CRP and SAA levels, and CT features were reliable parameters to evaluate the severity of COVID-19 infection. However, a few patients with mild COVID-19 disease lacked typical characteristics such as fever and changes in CT imaging features.

Construction of Surface-Modified Polydopamine Nanoparticles for Sequential Drug Release and Combined Chemo-Photothermal Cancer Therapy.

Single chemotherapy often causes severe adverse effects and drug resistance to limit therapeutic efficacy. As a noninvasive approach, photothermal therapy (PTT) represents an attractive option for cancer therapy due to the benefits of remote control and precise treatment methods. Nanomedicines constructed with combined chemo-photothermal properties may exert synergistic effects and improved antitumor efficacy. In this study, we developed polydopamine (PDA)-coated nanoparticles grafted with folic acid (FA) and polyethylene glycol to transport doxorubicin (DOX) for targeted cancer therapy. The results showed that this delivery vehicle has a nanoscale particle size and narrow size distribution. No particle aggregation or significant drug leakage was observed during the stability test. This system presented excellent photothermal conversion capability under near-infrared light (NIR) laser irradiation due to the PDA layer covering. In vitro dissolution profiles demonstrated that sequential and triggered DOX release from nanoparticles was pH-, NIR irradiation-, and redox level-dependent and could be best fitted with the Ritger-Peppas equation. FA modification effectively promoted the intracellular uptake of nanoparticles by HepG2 cells and therefore significantly inhibited cell recovery and induced tumor cell apoptosis. Compared to the free DOX group, nanoparticles reduced the DOX concentration in the heart to avoid drug-related cardiotoxicity. More importantly, the in vivo antitumor efficacy results showed that compared with the single chemotherapy strategy, the nanoparticle group exerted combined and satisfactory tumor growth inhibition effects with good biocompatibility. In summary, this nanocarrier delivery system can organically combine chemotherapy and PTT to achieve effective and precise cancer treatment.

Folic Acid-Modified Erythrocyte Membrane Loading Dual Drug for Targeted and Chemo-Photothermal Synergistic Cancer Therapy.

To overcome the challenges of systemic toxicity and weak tumor selectivity caused by traditional antitumor drugs, numerous nanocarrier systems have been developed in recent decades, and their therapeutic effect has been improved to varying degrees. However, because of the drug resistance effect and metastasis involved in tumor recurrence, a single chemotherapy can no longer satisfy the diversified treatment needs. Recently, the application of chemotherapy in combination with thermotherapy as a synergistic approach has been proven to be more effective, and it provides a new strategy for cancer therapy. In this work, by utilizing the unique properties of erythrocytes, a surface-modified erythrocyte membrane was constructed as a novel nanocarrier system (DOX and ICG-PLGA@RBC nanoparticles, DIRNPs for short) for the simultaneous transportation of chemotherapeutic drugs (doxorubicin, DOX) and photothermal agents (indocyanine green, ICG) to achieve the effects of long-term circulation, active tumor targeting, and triggered drug release. The results indicated that DIRNPs have a nanoscale particle size of 158.4 nm with a narrow size distribution and a negative surface charge of -5.79 mV. No particle aggregation or remarkable drug leakage was observed during the 30 day storage test, and because of the excellent photothermal conversion ability of ICG, the local temperature of DIRNPs could dramatically increase from 33.7 to 49.8 °C in 10 min under near-infrared (NIR) laser irradiation. The in vitro drug dissolution data demonstrated that the DOX release from the DIRNPs was pH-dependent and NIR-triggered. Folic acid modifications of the erythrocyte membrane effectively facilitated the intracellular uptake of DIRNPs by HepG2 cells and, as a result, it significantly inhibited tumor cell growth, promoted reactive oxygen species levels, induced cell apoptosis, and restricted cell recovery and migration. In vivo pharmacokinetics and biodistribution studies indicated that the DIRNPs prolonged the half-life of DOX from 6.03 to 17.6 h and remarkably reduced the DOX level in the heart to avoid drug-related cardiotoxicity. More importantly, the DIRNPs exerted excellent in vivo antitumor efficacy against H22 tumors with superior safety. In conclusion, utilizing the advantageous properties of erythrocytes to construct a tumor-targeted biomimetic nanocarrier for codelivery of chemotherapeutics and photothermal agents to produce synergistic effects is considered an effective method for cancer therapy.

Correlation between lifestyle and social factors in functional dyspepsia among college freshmen.

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to examine the relationship between the prevalence of functional dyspepsia (FD) and lifestyle habits, to identify social factors that may contribute to psychosocial disorders. METHODS: We enrolled 759 university freshmen in this study, who were categorized into the FD group and healthy group. All participants completed the validated Self-Rating Depression Scale and Self-Rating Anxiety Scale questionnaires, to assess lifestyle and social factors among participants. RESULTS: The proportion of participants with FD was 16.86%, and 67.97% were women. Diet irregularities and sleep impairment may have an effect on FD. Tea consumption may play a role in preventing FD. Participants with FD were more likely to have mood disorders than healthy participants. Most participants with FD who had mood disorders experienced mild anxiety or depression. Participants' main sources of stress arose from daily life, development, social life, life events, and participants' daily schedule. CONCLUSION: Sex and lifestyle habits, including sleeping patterns and dietary habits, can have an impact on FD. Social stress and mood disorders also have an effect on FD. FD may be prevented by adjusting lifestyle habits and psychological counseling.

Correlation between sleep impairment and functional dyspepsia.

OBJECTIVE: Sleeping habits may greatly impact the prevalence of functional dyspepsia (FD). This study examined relationships between aspects of sleep impairment and FD. METHODS: This prospective study included university student volunteers. Following enrolment, FD was diagnosed based on the Rome IV criteria, dividing participants into an FD group or controls. The FD group was further subdivided into long-term (disease course >6 months) and short-term (disease course 3-6 months) FD groups. Participants completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the Rome IV Diagnostic Questionnaire for Gastrointestinal Disorders in Adults, and a visual analogue scale (VAS). RESULTS: Out of 418 participants in total, sleep quality, latency, and duration, habitual sleep efficiency, sleep disturbances, sleep medication use, daytime dysfunction, and PSQI scores were higher in the FD groups versus controls. Components of PSQI scores emerged as risk factors, and were higher in the long-term versus short-term dyspepsia group. Moreover, these components were positively correlated with frequency/severity of postprandial distress syndrome and early satiation. Total PSQI scores were positively correlated with VAS scores. CONCLUSION: Several PSQI components are associated with FD occurrence, symptom frequency, and symptom severity.

The impact of acute stress disorder on gallbladder interstitial cells of Cajal.

Physical and psychological stress exerts a substantial effect on gastrointestinal motility disorders, where trauma enhances symptoms of digestive dysfunction. Interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs) act as pacemakers for gastrointestinal motility regulation and are likely important in stress-associated gastrointestinal motility disorders. This study explored the mechanisms underlying gallbladder ICCs function under acute stress conditions using a rabbit chest puncture and cholecystectomy model. The stem cell factor (SCF)/c-kit pathway is essential for the development of ICCs, and gene expression was investigated to identify stress-induced transcriptional alterations. Immunohistochemistry, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assays were used to determine ICCs apoptosis, whereas western blot analysis and reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction were used to detect changes in the SCF/c-kit signaling pathway. These methods revealed a reduction in ICCs via apoptosis following stress, and ICCs increased over time after stressor removal. Therefore, this study demonstrates the impact of stress on ICCs development and survival and further confirms the link between stress and gastrointestinal motility.

Ru/CeO2 Catalyst with Optimized CeO2 Support Morphology and Surface Facets for Propane Combustion.

Tailoring the interfaces between active metal centers and supporting materials is an efficient strategy to obtain a superior catalyst for a certain reaction. Herein, an active interface between Ru and CeO2 was identified and constructed by adjusting the morphology of CeO2 support, such as rods (R), cubes (C), and octahedra (O), to optimize both the activity and the stability of Ru/CeO2 catalyst for propane combustion. We found that the morphology of CeO2 support does not significantly affect the chemical states of Ru species but controls the interaction between the Ru and CeO2, leading to the tuning of oxygen vacancy in the CeO2 surface around the Ru-CeO2 interface. The Ru/CeO2 catalyst possesses more oxygen vacancy when CeO2-R with predominantly exposed CeO2{110} surface facets is used, providing a higher ability to adsorb and activate oxygen and propane. As a result, the Ru/CeO2-R catalyst exhibits higher catalytic activity and stability for propane combustion compared with the Ru/CeO2-C and Ru/CeO2-O catalysts. This work highlights a new strategy for the design of efficient metal/CeO2 catalysts by engineering morphology and associated surface facet of CeO2 support for the elimination of light alkane pollutants and other volatile organic compounds.