Colorimetric array sensor based on bimetallic nitrogen-doped carbon-based nanozyme material to detect multiple antioxidants.

Copper-cobalt bimetallic nitrogen-doped carbon-based nanoenzymatic materials (CuCo@NC) were synthesized using a one-step pyrolysis process. A three-channel colorimetric sensor array was constructed for the detection of seven antioxidants, including cysteine (Cys), uric acid (UA), tea polyphenols (TP), lysine (Lys), ascorbic acid (AA), glutathione (GSH), and dopamine (DA). CuCo@NC with peroxidase activity was used to catalyze the oxidation of TMB by H2O2 at three different ratios of metal sites. The ability of various antioxidants to reduce the oxidation products of TMB (ox TMB) varied, leading to distinct absorbance changes. Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) results showed that the sensor array was capable of detecting seven antioxidants in buffer and serum samples. It could successfully discriminate antioxidants with a minimum concentration of 10 nM. Thus, multifunctional sensor arrays based on CuCo@NC bimetallic nanoenzymes not only offer a promising strategy for identifying various antioxidants but also expand their applications in medical diagnostics and environmental analysis of food.

Exploration of the combined role of immune checkpoints and immune cells in the diagnosis and treatment of ankylosing spondylitis: a preliminary study immune checkpoints in ankylosing spondylitis.

OBJECTIVE: Immune checkpoints have emerged as promising therapeutic targets for autoimmune diseases. However, the specific roles of immune checkpoints in the pathophysiology of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) remain unclear. METHODS: Hip ligament samples were obtained from two patient groups: those with AS and femoral head deformity, and those with femoral head necrosis but without AS, undergoing hip arthroplasty. Label-Free Quantification (LFQ) Protein Park Analysis was used to identify the protein composition of the ligaments. Peripheral blood samples of 104 AS patients from public database were used to validate the expression of key proteins. KEGG, GO, and GSVA were employed to explore potential pathways regulated by immune checkpoints in AS progression. xCell was used to calculate cell infiltration levels, LASSO regression was applied to select key cells, and the correlation between immune checkpoints and immune cells was analyzed. Drug sensitivity analysis was conducted to identify potential therapeutic drugs targeting immune checkpoints in AS. The expression of key genes was validated through immunohistochemistry (IHC). RESULTS: HLA-DMB and HLA-DPA1 were downregulated in the ligaments of AS and this has been validated through peripheral blood datasets and IHC. Significant differences in expression were observed in CD8 + Tcm, CD8 + T cells, CD8 + Tem, osteoblasts, Th1 cells, and CD8 + naive T cells in AS. The infiltration levels of CD8 + Tcm and CD8 + naive T cells were significantly positively correlated with the expression levels of HLA-DMB and HLA-DPA1. Immune cell selection using LASSO regression showed good predictive ability for AS, with AUC values of 0.98, 0.81, and 0.75 for the three prediction models, respectively. Furthermore, this study found that HLA-DMB and HLA-DPA1 are involved in Th17 cell differentiation, and both Th17 cell differentiation and the NF-kappa B signaling pathway are activated in the AS group. Drug sensitivity analysis showed that AS patients are more sensitive to drugs such as doramapimod and GSK269962A. CONCLUSION: Immune checkpoints and immune cells could serve as avenues for exploring diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for AS.

Time trends in the mortality of testicular cancer across the BRICS: an age-period-cohort analysis for the GBD 2019.

Testicular cancer (TCa) is a rare but impactful malignancy that primarily affects young men. Understanding the mortality rate of TCa is crucial for improving prevention and treatment strategies to reduce the risk of death among patients. We obtained TCa mortality data by place (5 countries), age (20-79 years), and year (1990-2019) from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019. Age-period-cohort model was used to estimate the net drift, local drift, age effects, period and cohort effects. In 2019, the global mortality of TCa increased to 10842 (95% UI 9961, 11902), with an increase of 50.08% compared to 1990.The all-age mortality rate for TCa in 2019 increased from 0.17/100,000 (95% UI 0.13, 0.20) in China to 0.48/100,000 (95% UI 0.38, 0.59) in Russian Federation, whereas the age-standardized mortality rate in 2019 was highest in the South Africa 0.47/100,000 (95% UI 0.42, 0.53) and lowest in the China 0.16/100,000 (95% UI 0.13, 0.19). China's aging population shifts mortality patterns towards the elderly, while in Russian Federation, young individuals are primarily affected by the distribution of deaths. To address divergent TCa mortality advancements in BRICS countries, we propose a contextually adaptive and resource-conscious approach to prioritize TCa prevention. Tailoring strategies to contextual diversity, including policy frameworks, human resources, and financial capacities, will enhance targeted interventions and effectiveness in reducing TCa mortality.

Ferroptosis and its implications in treating cognitive impairment caused by aging: A study on the mechanism of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation.

OBJECTIVE: Ferroptosis has been recognized as being closely associated with cognitive impairment. Research has established that Alzheimer's disease (AD)-associated proteins, such as amyloid precursor protein (APP) and phosphorylated tau, are involved in brain iron metabolism. These proteins are found in high concentrations within senile plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) offers a non-pharmacological approach to AD treatment. This study aims to explore the potential therapeutic effects of rTMS on cognitive impairment through the modulation of the ferroptosis pathway, thereby laying both a theoretical and experimental groundwork for the application of rTMS in treating Alzheimer's disease. METHODS: The study utilized senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) mice to model brain aging-related cognitive impairment, with senescence-accelerated-mouse resistant 1 (SAMR1) mice acting as controls. The SAMP8 mice were subjected to high-frequency rTMS at 25 Hz for durations of 14 and 28 days. Cognitive function was evaluated using behavioral tests. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) assessed alterations in cerebral activity by measuring the fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (fALFF) of the blood oxygen level-dependent signal. Neuronal recovery post-rTMS in the SAMP8 model was examined via HE and Nissl staining. Immunohistochemistry was employed to detect the expression of APP and Phospho-Tau (Thr231). Oxidative stress markers were quantified using biochemical assay kits. ELISA methods were utilized to measure hippocampal levels of Fe2+ and Aß1-42. Finally, the expression of proteins related to the ferroptosis pathway was determined through western blot analysis. RESULTS: The findings indicate that 25 Hz rTMS enhances cognitive function and augments cerebral activity in SAMP8 model mice. Treatment with rTMS in these mice resulted in diminished oxidative stress and safeguarded neurons against damage. Additionally, iron accumulation was mitigated, and the expression of ferroptosis pathway proteins Gpx4, system Xc-, and Nrf2 was elevated. CONCLUSIONS: The Tau/APP-Fe-GPX4/system Xc-/Nrf2 pathway is implicated in the remedial effects of rTMS on cognitive dysfunction, offering a theoretical and experimental basis for employing rTMS in AD treatment.

Repurposing the multiple sclerosis drug Siponimod for osteoporosis treatment.

Osteoporosis is the most common bone disorder, in which an imbalance between osteoclastic bone resorption and osteoblastic bone formation disrupts bone homeostasis. Osteoporosis management using anti-osteoclastic agents is a promising strategy; however, this remains an unmet need. Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) and its receptors (S1PRs) are essential for maintaining bone homeostasis. Here, we identified that Siponimod, a Food and Drug Administration-approved S1PR antagonist for the treatment of multiple sclerosis, shows promising therapeutic effects against osteoporosis by inhibiting osteoclast formation and function. We found that Siponimod inhibited osteoclast formation in a dose-dependent manner without causing cytotoxicity. Podosome belt staining and bone resorption assays indicated that Siponimod treatment impaired osteoclast function. Western blot and qPCR assays demonstrated that Siponimod suppressed the expression of osteoclast-specific markers, including C-Fos, Nftac1, and Ctsk. Mechanistically, we validated that Siponimod downregulated receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand (RANKL)-induced Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathways during osteoclastogenesis. Moreover, in a preclinical mouse model, Siponimod prevented ovariectomy-induced bone loss by suppressing osteoclast activity in vivo. Collectively, these results suggest that Siponimod could serve as an alternative therapeutic agent for the treatment of osteoporosis.

Nutrition strategies to control post-weaning diarrhea of piglets: From the perspective of feeds.

Post-weaning diarrhea (PWD) is a globally significant threat to the swine industry. Historically, antibiotics as well as high doses of zinc oxide and copper sulfate have been commonly used to control PWD. However, the development of bacterial resistance and environmental pollution have created an interest in alternative strategies. In recent years, the research surrounding these alternative strategies and the mechanisms of piglet diarrhea has been continually updated. Mechanically, diarrhea in piglets is a result of an imbalance in intestinal fluid and electrolyte absorption and secretion. In general, enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) and diarrheal viruses are known to cause an imbalance in the absorption and secretion of intestinal fluids and electrolytes in piglets, resulting in diarrhea when Cl- secretion-driven fluid secretion surpasses absorptive capacity. From a perspective of feedstuffs, factors that contribute to imbalances in fluid absorption and secretion in the intestines of weaned piglets include high levels of crude protein (CP), stimulation by certain antigenic proteins, high acid-binding capacity (ABC), and contamination with deoxynivalenol (DON) in the diet. In response, efforts to reduce CP levels in diets, select feedstuffs with lower ABC values, and process feedstuffs using physical, chemical, and biological approaches are important strategies for alleviating PWD in piglets. Additionally, the diet supplementation with additives such as vitamins and natural products can also play a role in reducing the diarrhea incidence in weaned piglets. Here, we examine the mechanisms of absorption and secretion of intestinal fluids and electrolytes in piglets, summarize nutritional strategies to control PWD in piglets from the perspective of feeds, and provide new insights towards future research directions.

High-protein high-konjac glucomannan diets changed glucose and lipid metabolism by modulating colonic microflora and bile acid profiles in healthy mouse models.

High protein and fiber diets are becoming increasingly popular for weight loss; however, the benefits or risks of high protein and fiber diets with a normal calorie level for healthy individuals still need to be elucidated. In this study, we explored the role and mechanisms of long-term high protein and/or konjac glucomannan diets on the metabolic health of healthy mouse models. We found that high konjac glucomannan contents improved the glucose tolerance of mice and both high protein and high konjac glucomannan contents improved the serum lipid profile but increased the TNF-α levels. In the liver, high dietary protein contents reduced the expression of the FASN gene related to fatty acid synthesis. Interactions of dietary protein and fiber were shown in the signaling pathways related to lipid and glucose metabolism of the liver and the inflammatory status of the colon, wherein the high protein and high konjac glucomannan diet downregulated the expression of the SREBF1 and FXR genes in the liver and downregulated the expression of TNF-α genes in the colon compared to the high protein diet. High konjac glucomannan contents reduced the colonic secondary bile acid levels including DCA and LCA; this was largely associated with the changed microbiota profile and also contributed to improved lipid and glucose homeostasis. In conclusion, high protein diets improved lipid homeostasis and were not a risk to metabolic health, while high fiber diets improved glucose and lipid homeostasis by modulating colonic microbiota and bile acid profiles, and a high protein diet supplemented with konjac glucomannan might improve hepatic lipid homeostasis and colonic inflammation in healthy mouse models through long-term intervention.

Targeting the postsynaptic scaffolding protein PSD-95 enhances BDNF signaling to mitigate depression-like behaviors in mice.

Signaling mediated by brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is supported by the postsynaptic scaffolding protein PSD-95, has antidepressant effects. Conversely, clinical depression is associated with reduced BDNF signaling. We found that peptidomimetic compounds that bind to PSD-95 promoted signaling by the BDNF receptor TrkB in the hippocampus and reduced depression-like behaviors in mice. The compounds CN2097 and Syn3 both bind to the PDZ3 domain of PSD-95, and Syn3 also binds to an α-helical region of the protein. Syn3 reduced depression-like behaviors in two mouse models of stress-induced depression; CN2097 had similar but less potent effects. In hippocampal neurons, application of Syn3 enhanced the formation of TrkB-Gαi1/3-PSD-95 complexes and potentiated downstream PI3K-Akt-mTOR signaling. In mice subjected to chronic mild stress (CMS), systemic administration of Syn3 reversed the CMS-induced, depression-associated changes in PI3K-Akt-mTOR signaling, dendrite complexity, spine density, and autophagy in the hippocampus and reduced depression-like behaviors. Knocking out Gαi1/3 in hippocampal neurons prevented the therapeutic effects of Syn3, indicating dependence of these effects on the TrkB pathway. The findings suggest that compounds that induce the formation of PSD-95-TrkB complexes have therapeutic potential to alleviate depression.

G protein subunit alpha i2's pivotal role in angiogenesis.

Here we explored the potential role of Gαi2 (G protein subunit alpha i2) in endothelial cell function and angiogenesis. Methods: Genetic methodologies such as shRNA, CRISPR/Cas9, dominant negative mutation, and overexpression were utilized to modify Gαi2 expression or regulate its function. Their effects on endothelial cell functions were assessed in vitro. In vivo, the endothelial-specific Gαi2 shRNA adeno-associated virus (AAV) was utilized to silence Gαi2 expression. The impact of this suppression on retinal angiogenesis in control mice and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic retinopathy (DR) mice was analyzed. Results: Analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing data revealed Gαi2 (GNAI2) was predominantly expressed in retinal endothelial cells and expression was increased in retinal endothelial cells following oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) in mice. Moreover, transcriptome analysis linking Gαi2 to angiogenesis-related processes/pathways, supported by increased Gαi2 expression in experimental OIR mouse retinas, highlighted its possible role in angiogenesis. In various endothelial cell types, shRNA-induced silencing and CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout (KO) of Gαi2 resulted in substantial reductions in cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and capillary tube formation. Conversely, Gαi2 over-expression in endothelial cells induced pro-angiogenic activities, enhancing cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and capillary tube formation. Furthermore, our investigation revealed a crucial role of Gαi2 in NFAT (nuclear factor of activated T cells) activation, as evidenced by the down-regulation of NFAT-luciferase reporter activity and pro-angiogenesis NFAT-targeted genes (Egr3, CXCR7, and RND1) in Gαi2-silenced or -KO HUVECs, which were up-regulated in Gαi2-overexpressing endothelial cells. Expression of a dominant negative Gαi2 mutation (S48C) also down-regulated NFAT-targeted genes, slowing proliferation, migration, invasion, and capillary tube formation in HUVECs. Importantly, in vivo experiments revealed that endothelial Gαi2 knockdown inhibited retinal angiogenesis in mice, with a concomitant down-regulation of NFAT-targeted genes in mouse retinal tissue. In contrast, Gαi2 over-expression in endothelial cells enhanced retinal angiogenesis in mice. Single-cell RNA sequencing data confirmed increased levels of Gαi2 specifically in retinal endothelial cells of mice with streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic retinopathy (DR). Importantly, endothelial Gαi2 silencing ameliorated retinal pathological angiogenesis in DR mice. Conclusion: Our study highlights a critical role for Gαi2 in NFAT activation, endothelial cell activation and angiogenesis, offering valuable insights into potential therapeutic strategies for modulating these processes.

Global burden and trends in female premenstrual syndrome study during 1990-2019.

PURPOSE: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is prevalent worldwide and considered a crucial issue regarding women's health. In the present study, the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Study 2019 dataset was utilized to assess the distributional trends in PMS burden and prevalence in regional, national, and sociodemographic index (SDI) categories. METHODS: The analytical methods and approaches used in the 2019 GBD study were adopted to investigate the incidence rates and disability-adjusted life years (DALY) related to PMS in 204 countries or regions. Age-standardized incidence rates (ASIR), 95% uncertainty intervals (95% UI), and annual percentage changes (EAPC) were calculated from the data. RESULTS: The global incidence and disability-adjusted life years of PMS exhibited a declining trend in the year 2019. Regions with medium-low SDI had the greatest burden of PMS, with the regions of South Asia (ASR = 7337.9 per 10,000) exhibiting the greatest Age-standardized incidence rates, while the high-income North American states presented the fastest upward trends in Age-standardized disability-adjusted life year rates. At the national level, 107 nations exhibited a decreasing trend in PMS incidence ASR, while 97 nations exhibited an increasing trend, with the United States presenting the greatest increase. CONCLUSIONS: The present study highlighted that even though the global PMS incidence and disability-adjusted life years have decreased from the year 1990 to 2019, PMS remains a prevalent health concern for women worldwide. While addressing preventive measures and treatment, it is also important to consider the regional and national differences in PMS to develop further effective and targeted health policies.

Colorimetric and electrochemical dual-mode uric acid determination utilizing peroxidase-mimicking activity of CoCu bimetallic nanoclusters.

We present the preparation of CoCu bimetallic nanoclusters (Co@Cu-BNCs) by a hydrothermal and one-step pyrolysis method to build a colorimetric and electrochemical dual-mode sensing platform for uric acid (UA) detection. In the presence of H2O2, Co@Cu-BNCs with peroxidase-mimicking activity may convert colorless 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) to blue-colored oxidized TMB (oxTMB). However, due to the inhibitory effect of uric acid (UA) on the oxidation process of TMB, the characteristic absorption peak intensity of oxTMB decreased when UA was added into a mixed solution. In this approach, a colorimetric assay platform for the detection of UA was demonstrated, with a linear range of 0.1-195 µM and a low limit of detection of 0.06 µM (S/N ratio of 3). In addition, an even wider detection range is achieved in the electrochemical method, due to the pronounced electrocatalytic activity of Co@Cu-BNCs. The surface of the glassy carbon electrode was modified with Co@Cu-BNCs to build an electrochemical sensor for detecting UA. The sensor achieves a wider linear range from 2 to 1000 µM and a limit of detection of 0.61 µM (S/N ratio of 3). Moreover, the detection of UA in a human serum sample showed satisfactory results. The results proved that the colorimetric and electrochemical dual-mode detection platform was sensitive, convenient and accurate.

Supplementation with Antimicrobial Peptides or a Tannic Acid Can Effectively Replace the Pharmacological Effects of Zinc Oxide in the Early Stages of Weaning Piglets.

Zinc oxide (ZnO) harms the environment and can potentially increase the number of drug-resistant bacteria. Therefore, there is an urgent need to find safe and effective alternatives to improve gut health and reduce the incidence of diarrhea in weaned piglets. This study conducted an antibacterial test of ZnO, antibacterial peptides (AMPs), and tannic acid (TA) in vitro. Thirty piglets were randomly allotted to one of the following three dietary treatments: ZnO (2000 mg/kg ZnO diet), AMPs (700 mg/kg AMPs diet), and TA (1000 mg/kg TA diet). The results showed that the minimum inhibitory concentrations of ZnO and TA against Escherichia coli and Salmonella were lower than those of AMPs, and the minimum inhibitory concentrations of ZnO, AMPs, and TA against Staphylococcus aureus were the same. Compared to ZnO, AMPs increased the digestibility of dry, organic matter and the crude fat. Additionally, TA significantly (p < 0.05) increased the digestibility of dry and organic matter. On experimental day 14, the plasma interleukin-6 (IL-6) content of piglets supplemented with AMPs and TA was increased significantly (p < 0.05). On experimental day 28, alanine aminotransferase activity in the plasma of weaned piglets in the ZnO and TA groups was significantly (p < 0.05) higher than in piglets in the AMPs group. The levels of plasma IL-6 and immunoglobulin M (IgM) were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the ZnO and AMPs groups than in the TA group. On experimental days 14 and 28, no significant differences were observed in the antioxidant capacity among the three experimental groups. Intestinal microbial diversity analysis showed that the Chao1 and ACE indices of piglets in the AMPs group were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than those in the ZnO and TA groups. At the genus level, the relative abundance of Treponema_2 was higher in the feces of piglets fed a diet supplemented with TA than in those fed diet supplemented with ZnO (p < 0.05). The relative abundance of Lachnospiraceae was higher in the feces of piglets fed a diet supplemented with AMPs than in those fed diet supplemented with ZnO or TA. Overall, AMPs and TA could be added to feed as substitutes for ZnO to reduce diarrhea, improve nutrient digestibility and immunity, and increase the abundance of beneficial intestinal bacteria in weaned piglets.

Pelvic floor dysfunction after colorectal cancer treatment is related to physical and psychological health and body image: A cross-sectional study.

PURPOSE: Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) often occurs in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC), which can affect their quality of life. However, the precise factors that related to PFD in CRC patients remain elusive. The main objective of this study was to identify the variables associated with PFD following CRC treatment and establish a foundation for the development of a tailored rehabilitation plan specific to this population. METHODS: The classification of 149 patients with CRC was conducted according to the type of medical treatment they underwent. PFD was evaluated using the Urogenital Distress Inventory 6 (UDI-6) and Colorectal-Anal Distress Inventory 8 (CRADI-8) questionnaires. The study employed the Short form 36 health survey (SF-36) and Body Image Scale (BIS) to evaluate physical and psychological health as well as body image disorders. The connection between PFD and independent variables was determined through logistic regression analyses. RESULTS: Of all patients, more than 50% reported experiencing dysfunction, with the highest proportion observed in the PRT (primary radiotherapy) group. The LRR/RR (robotic-assisted colorectal resection or laparoscopic colorectal resection) group revealed a significant association between high BMI (Body Mass Index) and alcohol consumption with PFD. Moreover, in the PRT group, PFD was correlated with poorer physical condition (OR = 0.94, 95% CI = [0.88-1.00]). CONCLUSIONS: PFD is a commonly complained-about issue among patients with CRC. Early intervention targeted towards these factors may aid in the alleviation of associated distress and contribute towards the individualization of CRC rehabilitation programs, consequently improving the quality of life for patients.

Study on the Phenotypic Diversity of 33 Ornamental Xanthoceras sorbifolium Cultivars.

Xanthoceras sorbifolium, belonging to the family Sapindaceae, has a beautiful tree shape, elegant leaves, large and many brightly colored flowers, and a long flowering duration. This plant is widely applied in gardens. In this study, 33 cultivars of Xanthoceras sorbifolium were selected from the perspective of ornamental properties, and their phenotypic traits, such as leaves, flowers, and branches, were measured and analyzed, and their phenotypic diversity was comprehensively evaluated using principal component analysis, in order to investigate the phenotypic diversity characteristics of Xanthoceras sorbifolium. The results showed that the genetic diversity index of the qualitative traits varied from 0.14 to 1.50, and that of quantitative traits varied from 1.76 to 2.05. The quantitative traits were more diverse than the qualitative traits. The coefficient of variation of the qualitative traits ranged from 16.90% to 57.96%, and that of quantitative traits ranged from 12.92% to 32.87%. The phenotypic traits of the tested cultivars had relatively rich variation. Furthermore, the level of the phenotypic diversity index of Xanthoceras sorbifolium was not consistent with the level of coefficient of variation, indicating large variation and uneven distribution of variation. Through principal component analysis, 17 quantitative characters were extracted into five principal components, with a cumulative contribution rate of 79.82%, representing the primary information on the quantitative characters of ornamental Xanthoceras sorbifolium cultivars. The F value of the 33 samples ranged from -2.79 to 1.93, and the comprehensive scores of seven cultivars were greater than 1, indicating that these cultivars had rich phenotypic diversity. Therefore, the screening, development, and utilization of fine germplasm resources of Xanthoceras sorbifolium should focus on these cultivars. The 33 cultivars were subsequently clustered into five categories through systematic clustering. The cluster analysis provided references for breeding ornamental Xanthoceras sorbifolium cultivars with different utilization values, such as large white flowers, small red flowers, large red flowers, large orange flowers, and double-petaled flowers.

Dynamic Neural Network Predictive Compensation-Based Point-to-Point Iterative Learning Control With Nonuniform Batch Length.

This article discusses the problem of nonuniform running length in incomplete tracking control, which often occurs in industrial processes due to artificial or environmental changes, such as chemical engineering. It affects the design and application of iterative learning control (ILC) that relies on the strictly repetitive property. Therefore, a dynamic neural network (NN) predictive compensation strategy is proposed under the point-to-point ILC framework. To handle the difficulty of establishing an accurate mechanism model for real process control, the data-driven approach is also introduced. First, applying the iterative dynamic linearization (IDL) technique and radial basis function NN (RBFNN) to construct the iterative dynamic predictive data model (IDPDM) relies on input-output (I/O) signal, and the extended variable is defined by a predictive model to compensate for the incomplete operation length. Then, a learning algorithm based on multiple iteration errors is proposed using an objective function. This learning gain is constantly updated through the NN to adapt to changes in the system. In addition, the composite energy function (CEF) and compression mapping prove that the system is convergent. Finally, two numerical simulation examples are given.

A two-stage robust iterative learning model predictive control for batch processes.

Iterative learning model predictive control (ILMPC) has been considered as potential control strategy for batch processes. ILMPC can converge to the desired reference trajectory with high precision along batches and ensure system stability within batches. However, as a model-based control method, the control performance of the ILMPC algorithm deteriorates when exists model parameter uncertainty. Therefore, guaranteeing system tracking performance in the case of model parameter uncertainty is a challenging task in the framework designing of ILMPC method. To this end, we develop a two-stage robust ILMPC strategy for batch processes, which integrates the robust iterative learning control (ILC) in the domain of batch-axis and robust model predictive control (MPC) in the domain of time-axis into one comprehensive control scheme. The integrated control law of the developed two-stage robust ILMPC algorithm is obtained by solving two convex optimization problems. As a result, the developed control method obtains faster convergence speed and better tracking performance in the case of model parameter uncertainty. Moreover, the convergence analysis of the system is presented. Finally, comparative simulations are provided to verify the superiority of the developed control algorithm.

Elevated NO2 induces leaf defensive mechanisms in Bougainvillea spectabilis seedlings.

With a growing economy, the living standard of people has improved which has led to increased use of urban motor vehicles globally. Consequently, the concentration of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) has increased in the ambient air, becoming a major pollutant in urban areas. Plant leaves can absorb, adsorb and fix nitrogen oxides to some extent. Interestingly, NO2 has been recognized as a positive/negative regulator of plant growth. To comprehensively understand the effect of NO2-induced pollution on plants, Bougainvillea spectabilis seedlings were fumigated with different concentrations of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) for a short period in the current study. Further, the induced morphological, physiological, and biochemical changes were measured in the treated as well as untreated seedlings. NO2 exposure caused yellow-brown spotting on the leaf blades in B. spectabilis, which could be the symptoms of oxidative damage. Our findings also reflected the changes in antioxidant enzyme activity and peroxidation of membrane lipids. In addition, the levels of osmotic regulatory substances were also found to be altered to different degrees. In addition, the activities of nitrogen metabolism-related enzymes varied, mainly affecting amino acid metabolism. Overall, the current study would provide a theoretical and scientific basis for selecting and allocating plants in NO2-contaminated areas to manage the pollutants level.

Validation of a Chinese version for the global Pelvic Floor Bother Questionnaire.

PURPOSE: The Pelvic Floor Bother Questionnaire (PFBQ) is a self-administered instrument for determining pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD). The PFBQ was validated in English, but lately in other languages. However, a Chinese version has not been established. Thus, we aimed at validating a Chinese PFBQ version. METHODS: We used a translation-back method to develop a PFBQ Chinese version and validated in 102 women, 51 with at least one PFD symptom participated in the patient group, and 51 without PFD in the control group. Construct validity was assessed by comparing groups and a content validity index (CVI) determined. For test-retest reliability, participants completed the questionnaire twice within 1-week interval and the interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was determined. Internal consistency was calculated using Cronbach's statistics. RESULTS: Missing information after applying the translated PFBQ did not exceed 4% of any questions. Total scores between control and PFD women were significantly different (2.94 ± 1.84 vs. 10.29 ± 6.64; P < 0.001). The CVI for all items ranged from 0.800 to 1.000, and a good reliability was corroborated (α = 0.677, ICC = 0.938). CONCLUSION: The Chinese PFBQ version is a valid and reliable tool to identify the existence and severity of bothersome symptoms in Chinese women with PFD.

Percutaneous endovenous intervention without vena cava filter for acute proximal deep vein thrombosis secondary to iliac vein compression syndrome: preliminary outcomes.

The aim is to report the preliminary outcomes of percutaneous endovenous intervention (PEVI) for acute proximal deep vein thrombosis (DVT) secondary to iliac vein compression syndrome (IVCS) without inferior vena cava filter (IVCF) placement. Acute DVT patients who underwent PEVI without IVCF were analyzed retrospectively. PEVI consisted of catheter-directed thrombolysis, manual aspiration thrombectomy, balloon angioplasty and stenting. CT was used to evaluate the left common iliac vein (LCIV). Sixty-two consecutive patients (17 men and 45 women, mean age, 59.4 ± 15.2 years) were enrolled. The compression percentage of the LCIV ranged from 51.7% to 95.2% (median 83.2%). Iliac DVT was present in 7 patients; iliofemoral, in 30 patients; and iliofemoropopliteal, in 25 patients. Complete technical success and clinical improvement were obtained in all subjects without the occurrence of symptomatic pulmonary embolism (PE). Five patients experienced recurrent thrombosis. The primary patency rates at 12 and 24 months were 93.8% and 91.4%, respectively, which remained stable at 36, 48 and 60 months. The secondary patency rates at 12 and 24 months were 95.7% and 93.3%, respectively, and there was no change at 60 months. Although limited, our preliminary results suggested that PEVI without IVCF placement seemed to be safe and effective for acute proximal DVT secondary to IVCS without inferior vena cava thrombosis or symptomatic PE.

Multiomics integrative analysis for gene signatures and prognostic values of m6A regulators in pancreatic adenocarcinoma: a retrospective study in The Cancer Genome Atlas project.

N6-methyladenosine(m6A) is the most abundant post-transcriptional RNA modification in eukaryotes. However, little is known about its role in pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD). The aim of our study was to identify gene signatures and prognostic values of m6A regulators in PAAD. Patients from 3 different datasets with complete genomic and transcriptomic sequencing data were enrolled. Survival analysis for different gene alterations was performed using log-rank tests and Cox regression model. The association between alteration of m6A regulators and clinicopathological characteristics was examined using chi-square test. Results showed a high frequency of copy number alterations (CNAs) of m6A regulatory genes in PAAD patients, but somatic mutations were rarely happened. CNAs and mutations of m6A regulatory genes was associated with patient's gender, pathologic stage and resected tumor size. Patients with "gain of function" for m6A "reader" genes combined with copy number loss of "writers" or "erasers" had worse overall survival (OS) compared with other patterns. Moreover, copy number gain of m6A "reader" gene insulin growth factor 2 binding protein 2 (IGF2BP2) was an independent risk factor for OS (HR = 2.392, 95%CI: 1.392-4.112, p<0.001) and disease-free survival (DFS) (HR = 2.400, 95%CI: 1.236-4.659, p=0.010). Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) indicated that IGF2BP2 was correlated with multiple biological processes associated with cancer, of which the most significant processes were relevant to cancer cell cycle, cell immortalization and tumor immunity. To sum up, a significant relationship was found between m6A genomic alterations and worse clinical outcomes. These innovative findings are expected to guide further research on the mechanism of m6A in PAAD.