First report of Stagonosporopsis cucurbitacearum Causing Gummy Stem Blight on Trichosanthes kirilowii Maxim. in China.

Trichosanthes kirilowii Maxim. (Cucurbitaceae), one of the Chinese herbal medicines, is an economically important crop in Anhui Province, China. In recent years, gummy stem blight disease, a major disease of cucurbits, was widespread in many T. kirilowii plantations. The initial symptoms on the naturally infected stems appeared as dark brown water-soaked lesions, and as the disease progressed, vines of T. kirilowii gradually withered. On leaves, brown water-soaked lesions were visible initially, and then lesions enlarged and coalesced, resulting in extensive necrosis of leaves. On fruit, lesions covered with the white mycelium were nearly circular and tan to brown initially. Subsequently, the diseased fruit turned black and rotten commonly known as fruit rot or black rot. A Stagonosporopsis-like organism was consistently isolated from symptomatic stems, leaves and fruits. Fungal isolates were initially white and later turned dark grey or black with woolly to floccose aerial mycelium on PDA medium. Twenty-four isolates from different plantations were selected for further morphological studies. Pycnidia and conidia were formed after inoculating on cucumber fruit for 3 days. Pycnidia were globose to sub-globose, brown, ostiolate and 106.7 to 213.6 µm (average 160.1 µm, n = 50) in diameter. Conidia were hyaline, ellipsoidal, aseptate or one-septate, slightly constricted at the septa, 6.1 to 13.6 × 3.5 to 4.8 µm (average 9.9 × 4.1 µm, n = 50), and contained two or more oil drops. Three different loci of the genomic DNA, including the nuclear ribosome DNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS), RNA polymerase II second-largest subunit (RPB2), and ß-tubulin (TUB2) genes., were amplified using primers ITS1/ITS4 (White et al. 1990), RBP2DF/RBP2DR (Lawrence et al. 2013), and T1/ß-Sandy-R (O' Donnell and Cigelnik 1997; Stukenbrock et al. 2012), respectively and sequenced. A phylogenetic tree was built based on analysis of ITS, RPB2, and TUB2 sequences that deposited in GenBank (MW485497-MW485502 for ITS, MW531661-MW531666 for RPB2, and MW531667-MW531672 for TUB2), using the maximum likelihood method. The phylogenetic tree showed that the isolates fell into a single clade with S. cucurbitacearum. On the basis of morphological and molecular characteristics, the isolates obtained from T. kirilowii were identified as Stagonosporopsis cucurbitacearum. Pathogenicity tests were carried out on stems and leaves of 4-week-old T. kirilowii seedlings and on immature fruit collected from adult T. kirilowii plants. The epidermis, previously injured with a syringe needle, was inoculated with 5-mm-diameter mycelial plugs, and the inoculated areas were then wrapped in water-soaked cotton. Controls were similarly inoculated with agar plugs. The diameters of lesions were measured in two perpendicular directions. Re-isolations from the stem and leaf lesions were performed on the PDA medium. Stagonosporopsis cucurbitacearum, was re-identified based on its colony and conidial characteristics and, therefore, completed Koch's postulates. Gummy stem blight caused by S. cucurbitacearum has been reported in a wide range of hosts, including cucumber, luffa, pumpkin, gourd, muskmelon, cantaloupe, and watermelon (Jiang et al. 2015; Keinath 2011; Zhao et al. 2019). To our knowledge, this is the first report of gummy Stem blight disease on T. kirilowii caused by S. cucurbitacearum in China. The research provides a basis for the development and implementation of effective management strategies. Pathogenicity tests were carried out on stems and leaves of 4-week-old T. kirilowii seedlings and on immature fruits collected from adult T. kirilowii plants. The epidermis, previously injured with a syringe needle, was inoculated with 5-mm-diameter mycelial plugs, and the inoculated areas were then wrapped in water-soaked cotton. Controls were treated similarly but inoculated with agar plugs. Diameters of lesions were measured in two mutually perpendicular directions. Reisolations from the lesions were performed on PDA medium, and was re-identified based on its colony and conidial characteristics to complete Koch's postulates. Gummy stem blight caused by S. cucurbitacearum have been reported in a wide range of hosts, including cucumber, luffa, pumpkin, gourd, muskmelon, cantaloupe, and watermelon (Jiang et al. 2015; Keinath 2011; Zhao et al. 2019). To our knowledge, this is the first report of gummy Stem blight disease on T. kirilowii caused by S. cucurbitacearum in China. The research provides a basis for the development and implementation of effective management strategies.

Effects of Multidimensional Carbon-Based Nanomaterials on the Low-Carbon and High-Performance Cementitious Composites: A Critical Review.

Cementitious composites are ubiquitous in construction, and more and more research is focused on improving mechanical properties and environmental effects. However, the jury is still out on which material can achieve low-carbon and high-performance cementitious composites. This article compares the mechanical and environmental performance of zero-dimensional fullerenes, one-dimensional carbon nanotubes (CNTs), two-dimensional graphene oxide (GO), and three-dimensional nano-graphite platelets (NGPs) on cementitious composites. The literature review shows that two-dimensional (2D) GO has the best mechanical and environmental performance, followed by 3D NGPs, 1D CNTs, and 0D fullerenes. Specifically, GO stands out for its lower energy consumption (120-140 MJ/kg) and CO2 emissions (0.17 kg/kg). When the optimal dosage (0.01-0.05 wt%) of GO is selected, due to its high specific surface area and strong adhesion to the matrix, the compressive strength of the cementitious composites is improved by nearly 50%. This study will help engineers and researchers better utilize carbon-based nanomaterials and provide guidance and direction for future research in related fields.

GhWER controls fiber initiation and early elongation by regulating ethylene signaling pathway in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum).

Cotton fibers are specialized single-cell trichomes derived from epidermal cells, similar to root hairs and trichomes in Arabidopsis. While the MYB-bHLH-WD40 (MBW) complex has been shown to regulate initiation of both root hairs and trichomes in Arabidopsis, the role of their homologous gene in cotton fiber initiation remains unknown. In this study, we identified a R2R3 MYB transcription factor (TF), GhWER, which exhibited a significant increase in expression within the outer integument of ovule at -1.5 DPA (days post anthesis). Its expression peaked at -1 DPA and then gradually decreased. Knockout of GhWER using CRISPR technology inhibited the initiation and early elongation of fiber initials, resulting in the shorter mature fiber length. Additionally, GhWER interacted with two bHLH TF, GhDEL65 and GhbHLH121, suggesting a potential regulatory complex for fiber development. RNA-seq analysis of the outer integument of the ovule at -1.5 DPA revealed that the signal transduction pathways of ethylene, auxin and gibberellin were affected in the GhWER knockout lines. Further examination demonstrated that GhWER directly activated ethylene signaling genes, including ACS1 and ETR2. These findings highlighted the biological function of GhWER in regulating cotton fiber initiation and early elongation, which has practical significance for improving fiber quality and yield. Supplementary Information: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11032-024-01477-6.

Effect of three-dimensional to one-dimensional orientation of cellulose nanofiber sizing agents on carbon fibers under magnetic and electric fields on composite material properties.

Nanoparticle-containing sizing agents are essential for the overall performance of high-quality carbon fiber (CF) composites. However, the uneven dispersion of nanoparticles often leads to agglomeration on the surface of CF after sizing, consequently diminishing the material properties. In this study, the properties of cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) that can respond to magnetic and electric fields were utilized to achieve three-dimensional to one-dimensional orientations in CFs containing sizing agents. Cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4) was utilized to enhance the response of CNFs to a magnetic field, and subsequently, it was combined with an electric field to attain a higher degree of orientation. The occurrence of nanoparticle agglomeration is diminished on CF surface, while establishing a structured network. The flexural strength and thermal conductivity of CF composites treated with CoFe2O4 self-assembled CNF sizing agent exhibit an increase of 54.23 % and 57.5 %, respectively, compared to those of desized CF composites, when subjected to magnetic and electric fields. Consequently, the approach can depolymerize the nano-fillers within the sizing agent and orient it into the carbon fiber under the influence of magnetic and electric fields, effectively improving the mechanical properties and thermal conductivity of the composite material.

Endoplasmic reticulum stress-related gene expression causes the progression of dilated cardiomyopathy by inducing apoptosis.

Background: Previous studies have shown that endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) -induced apoptosis is involved in the pathogenesis of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). However, the molecular mechanism involved has not been fully characterized. Results: In total, eight genes were obtained at the intersection of 1,068 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from differential expression analysis between DCM and healthy control (HC) samples, 320 module genes from weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), and 2,009 endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERGs). These eight genes were found to be associated with immunity and angiogenesis. Four of these genes were related to apoptosis. The upregulation of MX1 may represent an autocompensatory response to DCM caused by a virus that inhibits viral RNA and DNA synthesis, while acting as an autoimmune antigen and inducing apoptosis. The upregulation of TESPA1 would lead to the dysfunction of calcium release from the endoplasmic reticulum. The upregulation of THBS4 would affect macrophage differentiation and apoptosis, consistent with inflammation and fibrosis of cardiomyocytes in DCM. The downregulation of MYH6 would lead to dysfunction of the sarcomere, further explaining cardiac remodeling in DCM. Moreover, the expression of genes affecting the immune micro-environment was significantly altered, including TGF-ß family member. Analysis of the co-expression and competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network identified XIST, which competitively binds seven target microRNAs (miRNAs) and regulates MX1 and THBS4 expression. Finally, bisphenol A and valproic acid were found to target MX1, MYH6, and THBS4. Conclusion: We have identified four ERS-related genes (MX1, MYH6, TESPA1, and THBS4) that are dysregulated in DCM and related to apoptosis. This finding should help deepen understanding of the role of endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced apoptosis in the development of DCM.

Network pharmacology analysis and experimental verification of the antithrombotic active compounds of trichosanthis pericarpium (Gualoupi) in treating coronary heart disease.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Trichosanthis pericarpium (TP; Gualoupi, pericarps of Trichosanthes kirilowii Maxim) has been used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to reduce heat, resolve phlegm, promote Qi, and clear chest congestion. It is also an essential herbal ingredient in the "Gualou Xiebai" formula first recorded by Zhang Zhongjing (from the Eastern Han Dynasty) in the famous TCM classic "Jin-Guì-Yào-Lüe" for treating chest impediments. According to its traditional description, Gualou Xiebai is indicated for symptoms of chest impediments, which correspond to coronary heart diseases (CHD). AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to identify the antithrombotic compounds in Gualoupi for the treatment of CHD. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A CHD rat model was established with a combination of high-fat diet and isoproterenol hydrochloride (ISO) administration via subcutaneous multi-point injection in the back of the neck. This model was used to evaluate the antithrombotic effect of two mainstream cultivars of TP ("HaiShi GuaLou" and "WanLou") by analyzing the main components and their effects. Network pharmacology, molecular docking-based studies, and a zebrafish (Danio rerio) thrombosis model induced by phenylhydrazine was used to validate the antithrombosis components of TP. RESULTS: TP significantly reduced the body weight of the CHD rats, improved myocardial ischemia, and reduced collagen deposition and fibrosis around the infarcted tissue. It reduced thrombosis in a dose-dependent manner and significantly reduced inflammation and oxidative stress damage. Cynaroside, isoquercitrin, rutin, citrulline, and arginine were identified as candidate active TP compounds with antithrombotic effects. The key potential targets of TP in thrombosis treatment were initially identified by molecular docking-based analysis, which showed that the candidate active compounds have a strong binding affinity to the potential targets (protein kinase C alpha type [PKCα], protein kinase C beta type [PKCß], von Willebrand factor [vWF], and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 1 [PTGS1], fibrinogen alpha [Fga], fibrinogen beta [Fgb], fibrinogen gamma [Fgg], coagulation factor II [F2], and coagulation factor VII [F7]). In addition, the candidate active compounds reduced thrombosis, improved oxidative stress damage, and down-regulated the expression of thrombosis-related genes (PKCα, PKCß, vWF, PTGS1, Fga, Fgb, Fgg, F2, and F7) in the zebrafish model. CONCLUSION: Cynaroside, isoquercitrin, rutin, citrulline, and arginine were identified as the active antithrombotic compounds of TP used to treat CHD. Mechanistically, the active compounds were found to be involved in oxidative stress injury, platelet activation pathway, and complement and coagulation cascade pathways.

Construction and validation of a hypoxia-related gene signature to predict the prognosis of breast cancer.

BACKGROUND: Among the most common forms of cancer worldwide, breast cancer posed a serious threat to women. Recent research revealed a lack of oxygen, known as hypoxia, was crucial in forming breast cancer. This research aimed to create a robust signature with hypoxia-related genes to predict the prognosis of breast cancer patients. The function of hypoxia genes was further studied through cell line experiments. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In the bioinformatic part, transcriptome and clinical information of breast cancer were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas(TCGA). Hypoxia-related genes were downloaded from the Genecards Platform. Differentially expressed hypoxia-related genes (DEHRGs) were identified. The TCGA filtered data was evenly split, ensuring a 1:1 distribution between the training and testing sets. Prognostic-related DEHRGs were identified through Cox regression. The signature was established through the training set. Then, it was validated using the test set and external validation set GSE131769 from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). The nomogram was created by incorporating the signature and clinicopathological characteristics. The predictive value of the nomogram was evaluated by C-index and receiver operating characteristiccurve. Immune microenvironment and mutation burden were also examined. In the experiment part, the function of the two most significant hypoxia-related genes were further explored by cell-line experiments. RESULTS: In the bioinformatic part, 141 up-regulated and 157 down-regulated DEHRGs were screened out. A prognostic signature was constructed containing nine hypoxia genes (ALOX15B, CA9, CD24, CHEK1, FOXM1, HOTAIR, KCNJ11, NEDD9, PSME2) in the training set. Low-risk patients exhibited a much more favorable prognosis than higher-risk ones (P < 0.001). The signature was double-validated in the test set and GSE131769 (P = 0.006 and P = 0.001). The nomogram showed excellent predictive value with 1-year OS AUC: 0.788, 3-year OS AUC: 0.783, and 5-year OS AUC: 0.817. Patients in the high-risk group had a higher tumor mutation burden when compared to the low-risk group. In the experiment part, the down-regulation of PSME2 inhibited cell growth ability and clone formation capability of breast cancer cells, while the down-regulation of KCNJ11 did not have any functions. CONCLUSION: Based on 9 DEHRGs, a reliable signature was established through the bioinformatic method. It could accurately predict the prognosis of breast cancer patients. Cell line experiment indicated that PSME2 played a protective role. Summarily, we provided a new insight to predict the prognosis of breast cancer by hypoxia-related genes.

A Review: The Significance of Toll-Like Receptors 2 and 4, and NF-κB Signaling in Endothelial Cells during Atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory vascular disease that begins with endothelial activation followed by a series of inflammatory responses, plaque formation, and finally rupture. An early event in endothelial dysfunction is activation of the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling axis. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) in endothelial cells (ECs) play an essential role in recognizing pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), and lifestyle-associated molecular patterns (LAMPs). Activation of the canonical NF-κB pathway stimulates the expression of cytokines, chemokines, and an array of additional genes which activate and amplify AS-associated inflammatory responses. In this review, we discuss the involvement of TLR2/4 and NF-κB signaling in ECs during AS initiation, as well as regulation of the inflammatory response during AS by noncoding RNAs, especially microRNA (miRNA) and circular RNA (circRNA).

Bronchial arterial chemoembolization with Drug-Eluting beads plus sequential chemotherapy for the treatment of stage III and IV lung squamous cell carcinoma.

PURPOSE: This retrospective study aimed to investigate the effectiveness and safety of bronchial arterial chemoembolization with drug-eluting beads (DEB-BACE) plus chemotherapy versus chemotherapy alone in patients with stage III and IV lung squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) who are not appropriate candidates for radiochemotherapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this retrospective analysis, we screened all adult patients undergoing either DEB-BACE plus chemotherapy or chemotherapy alone for stage III or IV LCSS at authors' center from January 2018 to August 2021. Each 21-day chemotherapy cycle consisted of intravenous injection of gemcitabine (1.0 g/m2) on days 1 and 8 and cisplatin 75 (mg/m2) on day 1. The planned cycles were 4. DEB-BACE consisted of microcatheter infusion of CalliSpheres beads carrying cisplatin (75 mg/m2) and gemcitabine (1.0 g/m2), at 3 weeks prior to chemotherapy. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS). The secondary outcomes included progression-free survival (PFS), pulmonary response, and adverse events (AEs). RESULTS: The final analysis included 95 patients in the chemotherapy group and 41 patients in the combination treatment group. The median OS was 14 months (95 % CI 11.0-17.0) in the chemotherapy group and 19 months (95 % CI 18.0-24.0) in the combination group (P = 0.015). In multivariate Cox regression analysis, DEB-BACE plus chemotherapy was associated with lower risk of death versus chemotherapy only (HR 0.16, 95 % CI 0.05-0.52; log rank test P = 0.003). The median PFS was 6 months (95 % CI 4.0-7.0) in the chemotherapy group and 8 months (95 % CI 6.0-8.0) in the combination group (P = 0.015). The pulmonary objective response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR) were 48.4 % and 62.1 % in chemotherapy group versus 82.9 % and 90.2 % in combination group (P < 0.001 and = 0.001, respectively). AEs occurred in 133 patients (97.8 %). The rate of bone marrow suppression was 48.4 % (46/95) in the chemotherapy group versus 7.3 % (3/41) in the combination group (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Compared with chemotherapy alone, DEB-BACE plus chemotherapy was associated with longer survival outcomes and lower rate of bone marrow suppression.

Distortion Effect on the UHPC Box Girder with Vertical Webs: Theoretical Analysis and Case Study.

Distortion deformation usually imposes a potential threat to bridge safety. In order to comprehensively understand the distortion effect on thin-walled ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) box girders, an innovative approach encompassing the governing distortion differential equation is introduced in this study based on the general definition of distortion angle within the cross-section plane. The analytical results obtained from the proposed method are in accordance with those obtained from the energy method, and exhibit favorable agreement with experimental findings documented in the existing literature. Furthermore, a finite element model is developed on the ANSYS 2021 R1 software platform with the employment of a Shell 63 element. Numerical outcomes are also in good agreement with the experimental data, affirming the validity and reliability of the findings. In addition, parameter analysis results indicate that the distortion angle remains approximately constant at a location approximately 1/10 of the span from the mid-span cross-section of the box girder, regardless of changes in the span-to-depth ratio. Increasing the web thickness yields a notable reduction in the distortion effects, and decreasing the wall thickness can effectively mitigate the distortion-induced transverse bending moment. Compared with normal-strength concrete box girders, UHPC box girders can reduce the distortion angle within the span range, which is beneficial for maintaining the overall stability of the box girders. The outcomes obtained from this study yield engineers an enhanced understanding of distortion effect on the UHPC girder performance.

The multi-protective effect of IL-37-Smad3 against ox-LDL induced dysfunction of endothelial cells.

Atherosclerosis is a lipid-driven inflammatory arterial disease, with one crucial factor is oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL), which can induce endothelial dysfunction through endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS). Interleukin-37 (IL-37) exerts vascular protective functions. This study aims to investigates whether IL-37 can alleviate ERS and autophagy induced by ox-LDL, therely potentialy treating atherosclerosis. We found that ox-LDL enhances the wound healing rate in Rat Coronary Artery Endothelial Cells (RCAECs) and IL-37 reduce the ox-LDL-induced pro-osteogenic response, ERS, and autophagy by binding to Smad3. In RCAECs treated with ox-LDL and recombinant human IL-37, the wound healing rate was mitigated. The expression of osteogenic transcription factors and proteins involved in the ERS pathway was reduced in the group pretreated with IL-37 and ox-LDL. However, these responses were not alleviated when Smads silenced. Electron microscopy revealed that the IL-37/Smad3 complex could suppress endoplasmic reticulum autophagy under ox-LDL stimulation. Thus, IL-37 might treat atherosclerosis through its multi-protective effect by binding Smad3.

Unraveling the pharmacodynamic substances and possible mechanism of Trichosanthis Pericarpium in the treatment of coronary heart disease based on plasma pharmacochemistry, network pharmacology and experimental validation.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a chronic disease that seriously threatens people's health and even their lives. Currently, there is no ideal drug without side effects for the treatment of CHD. Trichosanthis Pericarpium (TP) has been used for several years in the treatment of diseases associated with CHD. However, there is still a need for systematic research to unravel the pharmacodynamic substances and possible mechanism of TP in the treatment of coronary heart. AIM OF THE STUDY: The purpose of current study was to explore the pharmacodynamic substances and potential mechanisms of TP in the treatment of CHD via integrating network pharmacology with plasma pharmacochemistry and experimental validation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The effect of TP intervention in CHD was firstly assessed on high-fat diet combined with isoprenaline-induced CHD rats and H2O2-induced H9c2 cells, respectively. Then, the LC-MS was utilized to identify the absorbed components of TP in the plasma of CHD rats, and this was used to develop a network pharmacology prediction to obtain the possible active components and mechanisms of action. Molecular docking and immunohistochemistry were used to explore the interaction between TP and key targets. Subsequently, the efficacy of the active ingredients was investigated by in vitro cellular experiments, and their metabolic pathways in CHD rats were further analyzed. RESULTS: The effects of TP on amelioration of CHD were verified by in vivo and in vitro experiments. Plasma pharmacochemistry and network pharmacology screened six active components in plasma including apigenin, phenylalanine, quercetin, linoleic acid, luteolin, and tangeretin. The interaction of these compounds with potential key targets AKT1, IL-1ß, IL-6, TNF-α and VEGFA were preliminarily verified by molecular docking. And immunohistochemical results showed that TP reduced the expression of AKT1, IL-1ß, IL-6, TNF-α and VEGFA in CHD rat hearts. Then cellular experiments confirmed that apigenin, phenylalanine, quercetin, linoleic acid, luteolin, and tangeretin were able to reduce the ROS level in H2O2-induced HUVEC cells and promote the migration and tubule formation of HUVEC cells, indicating the pharmacodynamic effects of the active components. Meanwhile, the metabolites of TP in CHD rats suggested that the pharmacological effects of TP might be the result of the combined effects of the active ingredients and their metabolites. CONCLUSION: Our study found that TP intervention in CHD is characterized by multi-component and multi-target regulation. Apigenin, phenylalanine, linoleic acid, quercetin, luteolin, and tangeretin are the main active components of TP. TP could reduce inflammatory response and endothelial damage by regulating AKT1, IL-1ß, IL-6, TNF-α and VEGFA, reduce ROS level to alleviate the oxidative stress situation and improve heart disease by promoting angiogenesis to regulate endothelial function. This study also provides an experimental and scientific basis for the clinical application and rational development of TP.

A comparative evaluation of the structure, functionality and volatile profiles of Trichosanthes kirilowii seed protein isolates based on different extraction methods.

In the present study, we hypothesised that Trichosanthes kirilowii seed protein isolate (TPI) obtained by different extraction methods have distinct structure, functional attributes and volatile profiles. Alkaline-extracted isolate (AE-TPI) exhibited lower protein content and a darker colour than the other two isolates because more polyphenols and pigments were coextracted. Salt-extracted isolate (SE-TPI) and AE-TPI had higher in vitro protein digestibility than reverse micelle-extracted isolate (RME-TPI) due to higher degrees of denaturation, which enabled them to be more susceptible to proteolysis. The SE-TPI gel resulted in a stronger gel network and greater hardness than the other two isolate gels. In the volatile profile, SE-TPI (22) yielded the largest number of volatile compounds, followed by AE-TPI (20) and RME-TPI (15). The current results indicated that the structure, functional properties and volatile profiles of TPI are largely influenced by the extraction technique.

Growth of ZnO nanorods/flowers on the carbon fiber surfaces using sodium alginate as medium to enhance the mechanical properties of composites.

The chemical inertness of the carbon fiber (CF) surface results in suboptimal mechanical properties of the prepared composites. To address this issue, we employed a combination of tannic acid and 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane mixture (TA-APTES) grafted sodium alginate (SA) as a medium to enhance the interfacial properties of composites through the growth of ZnO nanoparticles on CF surfaces. ZnO nanolayers with rod-like and flower-like structures were obtained by adjusting the pH of the reaction system (pH = 10 and 12, respectively). Characterization results show that in comparison with the untreated CF composites, in the flexural strength, flexural modulus, interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) and interfacial shear strength (IFSS) of the as-prepared CF/TA-APTES/SA/ZnO10 (nanorods) composites were improved by 40.8 %, 58.4 %, 44.9 % and 47.8 %, respectively. The prepared CF/TA-APTES/SA/ZnO12 (nanoflowers) composite showed an increase in flexural strength, flexural modulus, ILSS and IFSS by 39.8 %, 63.6 %, 47.3 % and 48.2 %, respectively. These positive results indicate that the ZnO nanolayers increase the interfacial phase area and fiber surface roughness, thereby enhancing mechanical interlocking and load transfer between the fibers and resin matrix. This work provides a novel interfacial modification method for preparing CF composites used in longer and more durable wind turbine blades.

Improving the Flexural Response of Timber Beams Using Externally Bonded Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) Sheets.

This paper presents a numerical investigation of the flexural behavior of timber beams externally strengthened with carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) sheets. At first, the accuracy of linear elastic and elastic-plastic models in predicting the behavior of bare timber beams was compared. Then, two modeling approaches (i.e., the perfect bond method and progressive damage technique using the cohesive zone model (CZM)) were considered to simulate the interfacial behavior between FRP and timber. The models were validated against published experimental data, and the most accurate numerical procedure was identified and subsequently used for a parametric study. The length of FRP sheets varied from 50% to 100% of the total length of the beam, while different FRP layers were considered. Moreover, the effects of two strengthening configurations (i.e., FRP attached in the tensile zone only and in both the tensile and compressive zones) on load-deflection response, flexural strength, and flexural rigidity were considered. The results showed that elastic-plastic models are more accurate than linear elastic models in predicting the flexural strength and failure patterns of bare timber beams. In addition, with increasing FRP length, the increase in flexural strength ranged from 10.3% to 52.9%, while no further increase in flexural strength could be achieved beyond an effective length of 80% of the total length of the beam. Attaching the FRP to both the tensile and compressive zone was more effective in enhancing the flexural properties of the timber beam than attaching the FRP to the tensile zone only.

TFAP2C Activates CST1 Transcription to Facilitate Breast Cancer Progression and Suppress Ferroptosis.

Cystatin SN (CST1) appears to have pro-tumor effects in breast cancer (BC) and is involved in ferroptosis; however, there is no report on the regulation of ferroptosis by CST1 for BC development. The purpose of this study is to investigate the functions and mechanisms operated by CST1 in BC development and ferroptosis. Transcription Factor Activator Protein 2γ (TFAP2C) and CST1 levels in BC tissues and estrogen receptor (ER)+ cells were quantified by RT-qPCR and western blotting. After knocking down TFAP2C and CST1 expression in MCF7 and T47D cells, the proliferation, colony formation ability, apoptosis, and cell cycle were assessed. Ferroptosis was verified by detecting glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4HNE) levels. The kits were used to test Fe2+, reactive oxygen species, malondialdehyde, and glutathione levels, and ultrastructure of mitochondria was observed through transmission electron microscope. Dual-luciferase reporter assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation test were carried out to investigate the interaction of TFAP2C and CST1. A transplanted tumor model was established to explore the function of TFAP2C in tumorigenesis by quantifying TFAP2C, CST1, Ki67, and GPX4 levels through western blotting and immunochemistry after silencing TFAP2C. TFAP2C and CST1 were predominantly expressed in BC cells. Silencing of TFAP2C or CST1 expression suppressed ER+ BC cell proliferation, promoted apoptosis and ferroptosis, and blocked cell cycle transition from G1 phase to S phase. TFAP2C knockdown in transplanted tumors inhibited tumor growth and GPX4 level. Upregulating CST1 nullified the anti-tumor effects of TFAP2C knockdown and TFAP2C promoted CST1 expression through transcription activation. TFAP2C activates CST1 transcription to facilitate BC development and block ferroptosis.

Effects of liposomal bupivacaine in preoperative fascia iliac block on postoperative pain and delirium in elderly patients undergoing hip fracture surgery: a study protocol for a randomised, parallel controlled prospective clinical study.

INTRODUCTION: Postoperative delirium (POD) is the most common acute fluctuating mental state change after hip fractures in older adults. Postoperative pain is a Grade A risk factor for POD and is closely related to the prognosis of patients undergoing hip fracture surgery. The fascia iliac block has a definite analgesic effect and few side effects, and several studies have reported that it reduces the occurrence of POD in patients undergoing general anaesthesia for hip fracture surgery. Liposomal bupivacaine is a local anaesthetic with a long half-life that significantly reduces the use of opioids and is conducive to patient prognosis and recovery. However, whether regional nerve block analgesia can decrease the occurrence of POD in elderly patients undergoing hip fracture surgery has not been reported. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This is a single-blinded, randomised, parallel-controlled prospective clinical study. Participants will be randomly assigned preoperatively to either the liposomal bupivacaine (ie, Exparel) or ropivacaine groups by block randomisation. Then, the occurrence of POD (primary outcome) and postoperative pain (secondary outcome) will be evaluated. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This research protocol complies with the Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials (SPIRIT) 2013 guidelines and is approved by the Ethics Committee of Shanghai General Hospital (ID 2023-437). The original data are expected to be released in July 2029 on the ResMan original data-sharing platform (IPD-sharing platform) of the China Clinical Trial Registry, which can be viewed on the following website: http://www.medresman.org.cn. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: ChiCTR2300074022.

Secreted frizzled-related protein 2 ameliorates diabetic cardiomyopathy by activating mitophagy.

OBJECTIVES: Secreted frizzled-related protein 2 (SFRP2), a novel adipokine that used to be considered an inhibitor of the canonical Wnt pathway, may play a protective role in metabolic disorders. However, its effect on diabetic cardiomyopathy was still unclear. Accumulating evidence indicates that mitophagy can protect cardiac function in the diabetic heart. The present study aimed to explore the roles of SFRP2 on diabetic cardiomyopathy, focusing on the effects and mechanisms for regulating mitophagy. METHODS: Wild-type H9c2 cells, Sfrp2 overexpression and knockdown H9c2 cells were exposed to a glucolipotoxic milieu. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, cell viability, apoptosis, mitophagy and lysosomal activity were detected. The interaction of SFRP2 with frizzled 5 (FZD5), and its effect on expression and intracellular localization of transcription factor EB (TFEB) and ß-catenin were also explored. Diabetic rats and Sfrp2 overexpression diabetic rats were constructed to further document the findings from the in vitro study. RESULTS: The expression of SFRP2 was low and mitophagy was inhibited in H9c2 cells in a glucolipotoxic milieu. Sfrp2 overexpression activated mitophagy and reduced H9c2 cells injury, whereas Sfrp2 deficiency inhibited mitophagy and worsened this injury. Consistent with the in vitro findings, Sfrp2 overexpression ameliorated the impairment in cardiac function of diabetic rats by activating mitophagy. Sfrp2 overexpression upregulated the expression of calcineurin and TFEB, but did not affect ß-catenin in vitro and in vivo. The calcineurin inhibitor tacrolimus can inhibit mitophagy and worsen cell injury in Sfrp2 overexpression H9c2 cells. Furthermore, we found that FZD5 is required for the SFRP2-induced activation of the calcineurin/TFEB pathway and interacts with SFRP2 in H9c2 cells. Transfection with small interfering RNA targeting FZD5 opposed the effects of Sfrp2 overexpression on mitophagy and cell survival in a glucolipotoxic environment. CONCLUSIONS: SFRP2 can protect the diabetic heart by interacting with FZD5 and activating the calcineurin/TFEB pathway to upregulate mitophagy in H9c2 cells.

Psychrobacter species enrichment as potential microplastic degrader and the putative biodegradation mechanism in Shenzhen Bay sediment, China.

Microplastic (MP) pollution has emerged as a pressing environmental concern due to its ubiquity and longevity. Biodegradation of MPs has garnered significant attention in combatting global MP contamination. This study focused on MPs within sediments near the sewage outlet of Shenzhen Bay. The objective was to elucidate the microbial communities in sediments with varying MPs, particularly those with high MP loads, and to identify microorganisms associated with MP degradation. The results revealed varying MP abundance, ranging from 211 to 4140 items kg-1 dry weight (d. w.), with the highest concentration observed near the outfall. Metagenomic analysis confirmed the enrichment of Psychrobacter species in sediments with high MP content. Psychrobacter accounted for ∼16.71% of the total bacterial community and 41.71% of hydrocarbon degrading bacteria at the S3 site, exhibiting a higher abundance than at other sampling sites. Psychrobacter contributed significantly to bacterial function at S3, as evidenced by the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway and enzyme analysis. Notably, 28 enzymes involved in MP biodegradation were identified, predominantly comprising oxidoreductases, hydrolases, transferases, ligases, lyases, and isomerases. We propose a putative mechanism for MP biodegradation, involving the breakdown of long-chain plastic polymers and subsequent oxidation of short-chain oligomers, ultimately leading to thorough mineralization.

Ecotoxicology of Polymetallic Nodule Seabed Mining: The Effects of Cobalt and Nickel on Phytoplankton Growth and Pigment Concentration.

In order to improve the understanding of the environmental impacts of polymetallic nodule mining, ecotoxicological studies were conducted on the growth of model phytoplankton species Skeletonema costatum and Prorocentrum donghaiense using cobalt and nickel. This study evaluated various physiological and ecological indicators, such as cell proliferation, chlorophyll a, pigments, total protein, and antioxidant enzyme markers. The results show that the introduction of low amounts of cobalt or nickel increased the growth rate of phytoplankton. The phytoplankton benefited from low concentrations of cobalt and nickel stress. The increased protein levels and decreased activity of antioxidant enzymes considerably impacted physiological responses during the promotion of cell abundance. High concentrations of cobalt or nickel resulted in decreased light-absorbing pigments, increased photoprotective pigments, an inactive chlorophyll content, decreased total proteins, and maximal antioxidant enzyme activity in phytoplankton. Throughout the experiment, both the phytoplankton protein and enzyme activity declined with prolonged stress, and the cells underwent age-induced damage. Thus, seabed mining's repercussions on phytoplankton could result in both short-term growth promotion and long-term damage. These consequences depend on the impurity concentrations infiltrating the water, their duration, and the organism's physiological responses.