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Microwave assistance has the potential to reduce the energy input required for mechanical rock breaking. This study systematically investigated the changes in electrical properties (specifically resistivity, capacitance, and impedance) of gabbro after microwave heating during the graded loading process, as well as its internal fracture mechanism. The findings indicate that the variations in resistivity, impedance, and capacitance of gabbro can be divided into three stages during the graded loading process: the compaction stage, elastic-steady cracking stage, and nonlinear crack propagation stage. When the strain level exceeds 70%, the resistivity and impedance start to increase, and the capacitance begins to decrease. The study also identifies a significant positive correlation between microwave power and the rate of temperature increase on the rock surface. A critical power threshold of approximately 2 kW is observed, below which achieving rapid temperature rise becomes challenging, but beyond which the temperature escalates swiftly with the energy input. Once the temperature exceeds 350 °C, rupturing mineral inclusions generate numerous microcracks, causing resistivity and impedance to exponentially increase. Furthermore, microwave heating induces a temperature differential exceeding 200 °C between the internal and external regions of the rock. Under the same radiation energy, high-power short-duration radiation is more likely to generate thermally induced cracks within the rock. The rapid expansion and heating of absorbent minerals, as well as the rupture of inclusions, further intensify the propagation of microcracks, greatly reducing the mechanical properties of the rock. This study will provide theoretical guidance for microwave-assisted mechanical rock excavation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have reviewed the literature for circular RNAs (circRNAs) with efficacy in preclinical pancreatic-cancer related in vivo models. The identified circRNAs target chemoresistance mechanisms (n=5), secreted proteins and transmembrane receptors (n=15), transcription factors (n=9), components of the signaling- (n=11), ubiquitination- (n=2), autophagy-system (n=2), and others (n=9). In addition to identifying targets for therapeutic intervention, circRNAs are potential new entities for treatment of pancreatic cancer. Upregulated circRNAs can be inhibited by antisense oligonucleotides (ASO), small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) or clustered regularly interspaced short-palindromic repeats-CRISPR associated protein (CRISPR-CAS)-based intervention. The function of downregulated circRNAs can be reconstituted by replacement therapy using plasmids or virus-based vector systems. Target validation experiments and the development of improved delivery systems for corresponding agents were examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI) is caused by reperfusion after ischemic heart disease. LncRNA Snhg1 regulates the progression of various diseases. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the frequent RNA modification and plays a critical role in MIRI. However, it is unclear whether lncRNA Snhg1 regulates MIRI progression and whether the lncRNA Snhg1 was modified by m6A methylation. Methods: Mouse cardiomyocytes HL-1 cells were utilized to construct the hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury model. HL-1 cell viability was evaluated utilizing CCK-8 method. Cell apoptosis, mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were quantitated utilizing flow cytometry. RNA immunoprecipitation and dual-luciferase reporter assays were applied to measure the m6A methylation and the interactions between lncRNA Snhg1 and targeted miRNA or target miRNAs and its target gene. The I/R mouse model was constructed with adenovirus expressing lncRNA Snhg1. HE and TUNEL staining were used to evaluate myocardial tissue damage and apoptosis. Results: LncRNA Snhg1 was down-regulated after H/R injury, and overexpressed lncRNA Snhg1 suppressed H/R-stimulated cell apoptosis, mitochondrial ROS level and polarization. Besides, lncRNA Snhg1 could target miR-361-5p, and miR-361-5p targeted OPA1. Overexpressed lncRNA Snhg1 suppressed H/R-stimulated cell apoptosis, mitochondrial ROS level and polarization though the miR-361-5p/OPA1 axis. Furthermore, WTAP induced lncRNA Snhg1 m6A modification in H/R-stimulated HL-1 cells. Moreover, enforced lncRNA Snhg1 repressed I/R-stimulated myocardial tissue damage and apoptosis and regulated the miR-361-5p and OPA1 levels. Conclusion: WTAP-mediated m6A modification of lncRNA Snhg1 regulated MIRI progression through modulating myocardial apoptosis, mitochondrial ROS production, and mitochondrial polarization via miR-361-5p/OPA1 axis, providing the evidence for lncRNA as the prospective target for alleviating MIRI progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Belite sulfoaluminate cement is attracting increasing attention and being considered as a potential alternative to ordinary Portland cement owing to lower preparation temperature and carbon dioxide (CO2) emission. However, it still has disadvantages of poor workability and low early strength. This study investigated the effects of compound polycarboxylate superplasticiser (PCE) and early strength agent, calcium nitrite (Ca(NO2)2), on flowability and early strength of belite calcium sulfoaluminate (BCSA) cement. Variation patterns of setting time, fluidity, strength and polycarboxylate superplasticiser (PCE) adsorption of the paste were measured; the hydration products and microscopic morphology were also analysed by the heat of hydration, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Results showed that calcium nitrite effectively enhanced adsorption of PCE onto the surface of BCSA cement particles, leading to notable improvement in the fluidity of the paste (reaching up to 275 mm). In the initial hydration stage, 0.7% PCE compounded with 1.2% calcium nitrite inhibited the formation of ettringite (AFt), resulting in prolonged setting time. However, it deepened the degree of hydration of BCSA for 3 days and refined the hydration product, AFt crystals. Consequently, the compressive strength was increased to 95.75 MPa and 107.13 MPa for BCSA cement at 3 days and 28 days, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Laryngeal cartilage defects are a major problem that greatly impacts structural integrity and function. Cartilage repair is also a challenging issue. This study evaluated the efficacy of a collagen scaffold enveloped by amniotic membrane (AM/C) on laryngeal cartilage repair. Study Design: Experimental animal study. Methods: Fourteen Dutch rabbits were enrolled in the study. A 5 mm cartilage defect was created in the right and left thyroid lamina. The animals were divided into two groups randomly. Group 1 collagen scaffolds and group 2 AM/C were applied to the right side defects. Left side defects were not repaired, serving as control. Histologic evaluation was done 45 and 90 days following collagen and AM/C application with criteria of tissue and cell morphology, lacuna formation, vascularization, and inflammation. Results: Significant improvement in cartilage repair was observed in the AM/C side compared to the control side in all histologic criteria after 45 days (p<.05). After 90 days, cartilage repair improved in cell morphology, lacuna formation, and inflammation significantly (p<.05). Conclusion: The combination of amniotic membrane and collagen scaffolds provides a promising treatment modality for improving the repair of laryngeal cartilage defects. Level of Evidence: NA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cervical squamous cell carcinoma and endocervical adenocarcinoma (CESC) are the second most common cancers in women aged 20–39. While HPV screening can help with early detection of cervical cancer, many patients are already in the medium to late stages when they are identified. As a result, searching for novel biomarkers to predict CESC prognosis and propose molecular treatment targets is critical. TGFA is a polypeptide growth factor with a high affinity for the epidermal growth factor receptor. Several studies have shown that TGFA can improve cancer growth and progression, but data on its impact on the occurrence and advancement of CESC is limited. In this study, we used clinical data analysis and bioinformatics techniques to explore the relationship between TGFA and CESC. The results showed that TGFA was highly expressed in cervical cancer tissues and cells. TGFA knockdown can inhibit the proliferation, migration and invasion of cervical cancer cells. In addition, after TGFA knockout, the expression of IL family and MMP family proteins in CESC cell lines was significantly reduced. In conclusion, TGFA plays an important role in the occurrence and development of cervical cancer. Therefore, TGFA may become a new target for cervical cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In backfill mining, surrounding rock damaged by impact loading (e.g. blasting) is immersed in backfill water after backfilling, and the instability of the impact-damaged and water-soaked (IDWS) surrounding rock can occur under blasting loads. To study the dynamic mechanical properties and the size effect of rock under such working conditions, triaxial dynamic compression tests were conducted on four groups (four length-to-diameter ratios) of first impact-damaged and then water-soaked sandstone specimens using an improved split Hopkinson pressure bar device. The test results show that, at a similar strain rate (approximately 10 s−1), the peak strength and elastic modulus of IDWS specimens are lower than those of the intact specimens, whereas the peak strain is higher than that of the intact specimens. Both the peak strength and peak strain of the IDWS specimens increase with strain rate, exhibiting a strong strain rate dependency. The peak strength, peak strain, and elastic modulus all display a size effect. This size effect varies over different strain rate ranges. When the strain rate is approximately 10 s−1, the peak strength decreases as the length-to-diameter ratio increases. In contrast, at a strain rate of approximately 30 s−1, the peak strength increases with an increase in the length-to-diameter ratio. There is a linear relationship between the incident energy and absorbed energy of the intact and IDWS specimens. Under the same incident energy, the IDWS specimens show higher absorbed energy than the intact specimens. This relationship is independent of the length-to-diameter ratio of rock specimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A three Schiff bases; Lhy, Lme, and Lph, as well as their CuLhy, CuLme, and CuLph complexes, were synthesized, and their physicochemical properties were investigated. Vibrational spectra proposed that the hydrazone ligands reacted as neutral tridentate chelator with NNO chelating centers to the Cu(II) ion via azomethine-N, Isatin-carbonyl, and pyridine-N forming the general formulae [Cu(L)2]Cl2 nH2O, where L = neutral tridentate Isatin-hydrazone ligand (L = Lhy, (CuLhy); L = Lme, (CuLme); L = Lph, (CuLph)). TG/DTA analyses have shown that there is at least one water molecule in each of the complexes. The spectrophotometric method was used to calculate the stoichiometry and thermodynamic characteristics of the metal complexes. By using density functional theory (DFT) techniques, the 3D structure of the produced complexes was verified. Based on an investigation of the electronic structural configurations of the complexes, calculations verified the predicted structure and clarified the nature of the chemical reactivity. Cu(II) adsorption from aqueous solutions onto ligands was investigated in a number of different settings. The influence of the initial metal concentration (10–100 ppm), the weight of the hydrazone ligands (0.1–1.0 gm), and the contact period (1–2 h) were all investigated as potential moderators of the uptake behavior. In just three hours, equilibrium had been reached thanks to the speedy adsorption process. An initial pH of ≈ 6–8 with a metal ion concentration of 80 ppm was found to be optimal. Iodine (I2) uptake behavior of hydrazone ligands was also studied using spectroscopy. In the first 8 h, hydrazone ligands exhibited high adsorption efficiency (E, %), which gradually declined until equilibrium was achieved after 25 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the characteristics of rock hardness variation under different temperature paths is of great significance to expand the deep rock-breaking capacity. In this study, high temperature treatments with four temperature paths of slow heating–natural cooling (S–S), fast heating–natural cooling (F–S), slow heating–water cooling (S–F), and fast heating–water cooling (F–F) were conducted on sandstone specimens in the temperature range of 25–900 °C. Leeb hardness and indentation hardness tests were conducted on the rocks after heat treatment, and the influence of temperature paths on rock hardness and its mechanism was studied and discussed. In addition, chromaticity and wave velocity tests were conducted to analyze the correlation between the hardness of thermally-damaged rock and chromaticity and P-wave velocity. The results showed that, with increasing temperature, the Leeb hardness and indentation hardness of sandstone under S–S and F–S paths increased first (25–300 °C), then decreased (300–700 °C) and then increased (700–900 °C), while the Leeb hardness and indentation hardness under S–F and F–F paths decreased gradually. For natural cooling treatment, sandstone hardness under F–S path was slightly higher than that under S–S path before 500 °C, and under S–S path it was higher when the temperature reached 500 °C and hotter. Compared to natural cooling, water cooling resulted in more severe damage to the heat-treated sandstone, manifested in lower hardness values. Combined with scanning electron microscopy, it was found that different degrees of crack propagation caused by thermal stress generated by the temperature gradient in rocks under different temperature paths was the main reason for different degrees of rock damage. There was no significant correlation between rock chromaticity and hardness parameters, while a good linear correlation was shown between P-wave wave velocity and hardness parameters, indicating that the hardness of thermally-damaged rocks can be predicted by P-wave velocity to some extent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Application of C–S–Hs–PCE and sodium sulfate into Portland cement containing 20 wt% lithium slag (LS) powder was investigated, in order to strengthen early mechanical properties. Hydration properties and microstructure of cement-LS system were analyzed. Results showed that C–S–Hs–PCE was advantageous for modifying fluidity of fresh LS-cement binder, while increased dosage of sodium sulfate decreased dispersibility of fresh paste. C–S–Hs–PCE and sodium sulfate exhibited a synergistic effect on strength enhancement, hydration acceleration as well as setting behavior of LS-cement binder. Sodium sulfate increased alkalinity of interstitial solution and promoted dissolution of LS. Dissolved Al and Si from LS powder reacted with dissolved sulfate ions from sodium sulfate to produce extra hydrates, and C–S–Hs–PCE accelerated pozzolanic reaction and hydration reaction via nucleation effect collaborated with dispersing effect. The accelerated hydration generated more AFt and C–S–H gel in the matrix. Newly formed hydrates promoted exceedingly the appearance of network, leading to a refinement of pore structure as well as enhancement in mechanical strength. Application of LS into cement as a greener binder could be obtained by synergistic adoption of C–S–Hs–PCE and sodium sulfate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to explore the biological role and mechanism underlying the effects of colon cancer-associated transcript 2 (CCAT2), a long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) in human laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC). CCAT2 expression levels in clinical LSCC samples and TU-212 cell line were evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR. The correlation of CCAT2 expression level with clinical-pathological characteristics of patients and their prognosis was analyzed. The functional role of CCAT2 in human LSCC was assessed by Cell Counting Kit-8, Transwell assay, flow cytometric analysis, and LSCC xenograft experiment in vivo. The expression of potential targeted proteins was detected by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. We found that expression of CCAT2 was significantly elevated in LSCC tissues and TU-212 cells (p<0.05). Survival analysis showed that LSCC patients with high expression of CCAT2 had a shorter 5-year overall survival rate than those with low expression (p<0.05). In addition, CCAT2 silencing with short hairpin RNA significantly decreased the proliferative and invasive potential of TU-212 cells (p<0.05) and promoted their apoptosis. In Nude mice, CCAT2 knockdown suppressed the growth of tumor and decreased its volume and weight in comparison with the controls (p<0.05). In TU-212 cells, CCAT2 silencing with short hairpin RNA significantly down-regulated the expression of β-catenin and CDK8 (p<0.05). Thus, knockdown of CCAT2 suppresses proliferation and invasion of the cells and inhibits Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in LSCC, which indicates novel therapeutic targets and prognostic indicators in patients with LSCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigating gene function relies on the efficient manipulation of endogenous gene expression. Currently, a limited number of tools are available to robustly manipulate endogenous gene expression between "on" and "off" states. In this study, we insert a 63 bp coding sequence of T3H38 ribozyme into the 3' untranslated region (UTR) of C. elegans endogenous genes using the CRISPR/Cas9 technology, which reduces the endogenous gene expression to a nearly undetectable level and generated loss-of-function phenotypes similar to that of the genetic null animals. To achieve conditional knockout, a cassette of loxP-flanked transcriptional termination signal and ribozyme is inserted into the 3' UTR of endogenous genes, which eliminates gene expression spatially or temporally via the controllable expression of the Cre recombinase. Conditional endogenous gene turn-on can be achieved by either injecting morpholino, which blocks the ribozyme self-cleavage activity or using the Cre recombinase to remove the loxP-flanked ribozyme. Together, our results demonstrate that these ribozyme-based tools can efficiently manipulate endogenous gene expression both in space and time and expand the toolkit for studying the functions of endogenous genes. Manipulation of endogenous genes in space and time in C. elegans is accomplished by inserting a ribozyme sequence into the 3'UTR with CRISPR/Cas9, utilizing self-cleavage of the ribozyme and Cre/loxP system as an "off and "on" switch, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nasal deformities due to various causes affect the aesthetics and use of the nose, in which case rhinoplasty is necessary. However, the lack of cartilage for grafting has been a major problem and tissue engineering seems to be a promising solution. 3D bioprinting has become one of the most advanced tissue engineering methods. To construct ideal cartilage, bio‐ink, seed cells, growth factors and other methods to promote chondrogenesis should be considered and weighed carefully. With continuous progress in the field, bio‐ink choices are becoming increasingly abundant, from a single hydrogel to a combination of hydrogels with various characteristics, and more 3D bioprinting methods are also emerging. Adipose‐derived stem cells (ADSCs) have become one of the most popular seed cells in cartilage 3D bioprinting, owing to their abundance, excellent proliferative potential, minimal morbidity during harvest and lack of ethical considerations limitations. In addition, the co‐culture of ADSCs and chondrocytes is commonly used to achieve better chondrogenesis. To promote chondrogenic differentiation of ADSCs and construct ideal highly bionic tissue‐engineered cartilage, researchers have used a variety of methods, including adding appropriate growth factors, applying biomechanical stimuli and reducing oxygen tension. According to the process and sequence of cartilage 3D bioprinting, this review summarizes and discusses the selection of hydrogel and seed cells (centered on ADSCs), the design of printing, and methods for inducing the chondrogenesis of ADSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Liver metastasis (LM) is reported in approximately 40% of patients with advanced/ metastatic gastric/gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma (metastatic esophagogastric adenocarcinoma; mGEA) and is associated with a worse prognosis. This post-hoc analysis from the RAINBOW trial reported the efficacy, safety, and biomarker outcomes of ramucirumab and paclitaxel combination treatment (RAM+PAC) in patients with (LM+) and without (LM−) LM at baseline. Materials and Methods: Patients (n=665) were randomly assigned on a 1:1 basis to receive either RAM+PAC (LM+: 150, LM−: 180) or placebo and paclitaxel (PL+PAC) (LM+: 138, LM−: 197). The overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were evaluated using stratified Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression models. The correlation of dichotomized biomarkers (VEGF-C, D; VEGFR-1,2) with efficacy in the LM+ versus LM− subgroups was analyzed using the Cox regression model with reported interaction P-values. Results: The presence of LM was associated with earlier progression than those without LM, particularly in patients receiving PL+PAC (hazard ratio [HR], 1.68). RAM+PAC treatment improved OS and PFS irrespective of LM status but showed greater improvement in LM+ than that in LM− (OS HR, 0.71 [LM+] vs. 0.88 [LM−]; PFS HR, 0.47 [LM+] vs. 0.76 [LM−]). Treatment-emergent adverse events were similar between patients with and without LM. No predictive relationship was observed between biomarker levels (VEGF-C, D; VEGFR-1,2) and efficacy outcome (OS, PFS) (all interaction P-values >0.05). Conclusions: RAM provided a significant benefit, irrespective of LM status; however, its effect was numerically stronger in patients with LM. Therefore, RAM+PAC is a clinically meaningful therapeutic option for patients with mGEA and LM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To reveal the shear-seepage coupling characteristics of fractured specimens under cyclic loading and unloading, the specific test device and test method were designed in this study. The cyclic loading and unloading shear-seepage coupling test on the fractured rock mass under different confining pressures and seepage pressures was carried out by processing "double L-shaped" specimens, and the change laws of the shear characteristics and seepage characteristics of fractured specimens with different roughness were experimentally investigated. The results indicated that the peak shear stress, residual shear stress, and shear stiffness of rough fractures all increase with increasing confining pressure, while the change in normal dilatation displacement is the opposite. Under a constant normal stress, the permeability of rough fracture decreases, increase, and then stabilizes with increasing shear displacement. The peak shear stress of the smooth fracture is 3.7 times lower than that of the rough fracture with the same shear displacement, and the smooth sandstone specimens are all in a shear shrinkage state, with the normal shrinkage displacement of less than 1.0 mm. In addition, during unloading, permeability increases to some extent but cannot recover to the original value. The confining pressure causes permanent damage to the permeability of fractured rock mass. The permeability of sandstone specimens changes primarily in the early loading stage and late unloading stage. Based on the test results, the relationship between permeability and confining pressure follows a negative exponential function under cyclic loading and unloading conditions. Highlights: The shear-seepage coupling test device and test method were designed. The effect of seepage pressure on the hydro-mechanical coupling of rough fractures has a threshold value. The permeability of rough fractured specimen changes in the staged manner of "decrease-increase-stability" with increasing shear displacement. The initial stage of loading and the later stage of unloading are the main stages of permeability change of fractured sandstone specimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Peritoneal dissemination represents a poor prognostic indicator in gastric cancer. Despite a comprehensive molecular characterization of this disease, no peritoneal dissemination-specific signature has been identified, limiting the tailoring of the surgical and oncological treatments. In this review, we outline the available literature focusing on the role of the different molecular pathways involved in the acquisition of peritoneal metastatic dissemination. Summary: According to our results, several molecular determinants are associated with peritoneal carcinomatosis and are involved in several cellular and molecular carcinogenetic processes. However, a comprehensive understanding of the complex molecular landscape of gastric carcinosis is still lacking. Key Messages: More efforts should be made toward the integration of molecular and histologic data to perform a risk prediction assessment of peritoneal dissemination based on molecular profiling and histological evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spiro-OMeTAD, one of the most widely used hole-transport materials (HTMs) in optoelectronic devices, typically requires chemical doping with a lithium compound (LiTFSI) to attain sufficient conductivity and efficient hole extraction. However, the doping step requires an activation process that comprises exposure of the blend films to an ambient atmosphere. Additionally, the lithium dopant induces crystallization, and its hygroscopic nature negatively impacts device performance and lifetime. Here we report a facile approach based on the incorporation of a low-cost alkylthiol additive (1-dodecanethiol, DDT) in the spiro-OMeTAD HTM. We discover that DDT provides a more efficient and controllable doping process with significantly reduced doping duration, enabling the HTM to achieve comparable performance before air activation. The coordination between DDT and LiTFSI increases the concentration of dopants in the HTM bulk, reduces their accumulation at interfaces, and enhances the structural integrity of the HTM under wetting, heat and light stress. We fabricate perovskite solar cells using DDT-treated spiro-OMeTAD as the HTM. Our best devices exhibit a certified power conversion efficiency of 23.1%. Furthermore, the devices can retain 90% of peak performance under continuous illumination for 1,000 h. Our findings represent an important step forward in the production of doped spiro-OMeTAD, as well as its reliable application and future device commercialization. The addition of DDT to the spiro-OMeTAD hole transport material enhances the stability of perovskite solar cells to humidity, heat and illumination stress. Fabricated devices exhibit a champion certified power conversion efficiency of 23.1%. Also, the devices could retain 90% of the initial efficiency after 1,000 h of continuous illumination, 97% under moisture stress for 530 h and 91% under 144 h of heat stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a CuxS/GO composite hole transport layer is prepared on the surface of TiO2/CuInS2 photo-electrodes to modulate the charge transfer efficiency of quantum dot-sensitized solar cells. The normalized PL intensity of TiO2/CuInS2 photo-electrodes had been obviously quenched with the as-prepared CuxS/GO composite hole transport layer, which had exhibited excellent charge separation properties of the solar cells. Due to the reduce of charge recombination traps under CuxS/GO composite hole transport layer, the charge transfer efficiency of the solar cells had been effectively improved. As a result, the higher Voc, FF and Jsc value can be obtained for TiO2/CuInS2 quantum dot sensitized solar cells with this CuxS/GO composite hole transport layer, which had exhibited the photovoltaic conversion efficiency enhancement from 4.85% to 6.07%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The polycarboxylate superplasticizer/calcium silicate hydrate (PCE/C–S–H) nanocomposites have been used as an enhancing agent for the early strength development of cementitious materials by providing nucleation site for cement hydrates. This study aims to investigate the mechanism and the effect of PCE on the microstructure and properties of C–S–H. PCE/C–S–H with varying calcium-to-silicon ratio (C/S) are prepared via the co-precipitation method in PCE solution using methyl ally polyethylene glycol (MAPEG) as macromonomer and characterized by means of XRD, FTIR, TG, DSC, TEM, DLS, zeta potential and TOC. The mortar strength containing PCE/C–S–H with different C/S ratio is investigated at early curing age. The results from XRD show that the basal spacing of C–S–H interlayer is increased, indicating that the PCE can intercalate into the interlayer of C–S–H, which is consistent with the results from TG and DSC. Besides, the synthesized C–S–H can be well protected from carbonation in the presence of PCE. Combining the results of XRD, FTIR and TOC, it can be revealed that PCE only can graft in the vacant sites in silicate chain of C–S–H with C/S ratio of 1.7. Zeta potential results show that PCE can adsorb the surface of C–S–H. The results from mortar compressive strength show that the PCE/C–S–H with low C/S has a more acceleration performance than high C/S for low calcium content of PCE/C–S–H that contains more loose foil-like flasks than higher content of calcium, which can provide more nucleation sites for hydration products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Journal of Food Safety & Quality is the property of Journal of Food Safety & Quality Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

MET, the hepatocyte growth factor receptor is amplified in 8% of gastroesophageal (GO) malignancies and associated with poor prognosis. Therapeutic targeting of MET amplification and MET mutations has the potential to improve outcomes for patients with GO cancers (GOC). The efficacy of MET inhibition (METi) in preclinical studies has yet to translate into meaningful improvements in the treatment paradigm for unselected GOC. MET amplification has been proposed as a superior modality for patient selection; however even if confirmed, frequency and duration of response to METi are limited by rapid activation of primary and secondary resistance pathways. These observations illustrate the challenges inherent in the application of precision oncology predicated on the theory of oncogenic addiction. A standardized definition of MET positivity is critical to enhance patient selection. Early successes targeting the METex14 skipping mutation demonstrate the potent therapeutic effects of METi in a clearly molecularly defined cohort. There is robust preclinical rationale and early-phase data supporting exploitation of immune system interaction with MET. Pragmatic investigation of rational therapeutic combinations based on molecular profiling of both primary and metastatic disease sites with sequential circulating tumor DNA analysis can inform successful clinical development of METi agents in GOC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Collagen, characteristic in biomimetic composition and hierarchical structure, boasts a huge potential in repairing cartilage defect due to its extraordinary bioactivities and regulated physicochemical properties, such as low immunogenicity, biocompatibility and controllable degradation, which promotes the cell adhesion, migration and proliferation. Therefore, collagen-based biomaterial has been explored as porous scaffolds or functional coatings in cell-free scaffold and tissue engineering strategy for cartilage repairing. Among those forming technologies, freeze-dry is frequently used with special modifications while 3D-printing and electrospinning serve as the structure-controller in a more precise way. Besides, appropriate cross-linking treatment and incorporation with bioactive substance generally help the collagen-based biomaterials to meet the physicochemical requirement in the defect site and strengthen the repairing performance. Furthermore, comprehensive evaluations on the repair effects of biomaterials are sorted out in terms of in vitro, in vivo and clinical assessments, focusing on the morphology observation, characteristic production and critical gene expression. Finally, the challenge of biomaterial-based therapy for cartilage defect repairing was summarized, which is, the adaption to the highly complex structure and functional difference of cartilage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Up to now, luminescence properties of Eu2+-activated Ca-α-Sialon (Ca-α-Sialon:Eu2+) and Ce3+-doped lutetium aluminium garnet (LuAG:Ce3+) have been widely studied in free or encapsulated forms in polymeric matrices individually. On the other hand, quinine sulphate (QS), which has been accepted as a "quantum yield standard" for the fluorescence spectroscopy due to the excellent emission performance, has also been investigated many times, for different purposes. In this work, we studied excitation and emission behaviour of quinine sulphate–phosphor blends consisting of Ca-α-Sialon:Eu2+/QS and LuAG:Ce3+/QS in polymethyl methacrylate matrix for the first time. The Ca-α-Sialon exhibited approximately 44% increase in the emission intensity when encapsulated along with the Quinine sulphate in the solid state. Similarly, the LuAG:Ce3+ exhibited 98% increased brightness when used in QS containing PMMA matrix. Decay time measurements performed in nanosecond and microsecond time scales supported a potential energy transfer from the QS to the phosphors. The promising results obtained in this study may open a cost-effective way to enhance the optical performance of the both phosphors, which are basic materials for the fabrication of LED bulbs, smartphone and televisions screens, monitors, and panels of other electronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a facile and effective strategy to prepare three-dimensional (3D) hierarchical flower-like Mg–Al layered double hydroxides (3D-LDH) was developed via a one-step double-drop coprecipitation method using γ-Al2O3 particles as a template. The characterization and experimental results showed that the calcined product, 3D-LDO, features a large specific surface area of 204.2 m2/g, abundant active sites, and excellent adsorption performance for Congo red (CR), methyl orange (MO), and methyl blue (MB). The maximum adsorption capacities of 3D-LDO for CR, MO, and MB were 1428.6, 476.2, and 1666.7 mg/g, respectively; such performance is superior to that of most reported adsorbents. The adsorption mechanism of organic anionic dyes by 3D-LDO was extensively investigated and attributed to surface adsorption, the memory effect of 3D-LDO, and the unique 3D hierarchical flower-like structure of the adsorbent. Recycling performance tests revealed that 3D-LDO has satisfactory reusability for the three organic anionic dyes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Worldwide, cancer has become one of the leading causes of mortality. Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors (PPARs) is a family of critical sensors of lipids as well as regulators of diverse metabolic pathways. They are also equipped with the capability to promote eNOS activation, regulate immunity and inflammation response. Aside from the established properties, emerging discoveries are also made in PPAR's functions in the cancer field. All considerations are given, there exists great potential in PPAR modulators which may hold in the management of cancers. In particular, PPAR-γ, the most expressed subtype in adipose tissues with two isoforms of different tissue distribution, has been proven to be able to inhibit cell proliferation, induce cell cycle termination and apoptosis of multiple cancer cells, promote intercellular adhesion, and cripple the inflamed state of tumor microenvironment, both on transcriptional and protein level. However, despite the multi-functionalities, the safety of PPAR-γ modulators is still of clinical concern in terms of dosage, drug interactions, cancer types and stages, etc. This review aims to consolidate the functions of PPAR-γ, the current and potential applications of PPAR-γ modulators, and the challenges in applying PPAR-γ modulators to cancer treatment, in both laboratory and clinical settings. We sincerely hope to provide a comprehensive perspective on the prospect of PPAR-γ applicability in the field of cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the compact and ultra-thin CdS thin films with different spin cycles are deposited on the TiO2 nanorod arrays via spin-coated-assisted successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction method using Cd(NO3)2 solution in methanol and the Na2S solution in methanol/water (v/v, 95/5), and the Sb2S3 prepared by pyrolysis using SbCl3-thiourea complex solution in DMF. In the Sb2S3-sensitized solar cells, the compact and ultra-thin CdS thin films with suitable band gap and higher electron mobility can suppress the charge recombination, the electrons of the TiO2 conduction band, and the holes of the spiro-OMeTAD valence band, and it can also transport photogenerated electrons rapidly from Sb2S3 to TiO2. The thickness and microstructure of the CdS buffer layers can be adjusted by spin cycles and the influence of the thickness and microstructure of the CdS buffer layers on the photovoltaic property of the corresponding solar cell was systematically investigated. The Sb2S3-sensitized solar cells with 5 layers CdS thin film achieved the best photovoltaic conversion efficiency (PCE) of 5.71% along with the open-circuit voltage (Voc) of 0.53 V, short-circuit photocurrent density (Jsc) of 18.20 mA cm−2, fill factor (FF) of 58.99%, and the average PCE of 5.59 ± 0.08% with the Voc of 0.53 ± 0.01 V, Jsc of 17.72 ± 0.43 mA cm−2, and FF of 59.05 ± 0.65%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parallax, exposure differences, ghost and efficiency handling are the challenging tasks for image stitching, which is regarded as the promising approach to resolve the issues in the tasks. In this paper, we propose a novel stitching method that locates the overlapped regions of the input images, and records the feature points at the same time. The warping of each image is then guided by a mesh interpolation map in a local warp model. We also propose an arc function weight model to eliminate image chromatic aberration. It is proved via the validation cases that our approach shows constantly the better performance than the AutoStitch, APAP, SPHP, ANAP, ELA and many other state-of-the-art methods. Our method can effectively avoid mismatched points, improve the matching efficiency of feature points of large-size images by about 60%, eliminate the color difference seam and ghost of the image, and still have good accuracy and stability in complex scenes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The low pyrolysis-crystallization temperature of 200 °C was firstly reported to prepare crystalline low-selenium Sb2SxSey (x:y = 3.0:0.2) thin films using the mixture solution of Sb2O3, Se, CS2, and n-butylamine in DMF as a precursor solution. The corresponding thin film solar cells with the architecture of FTO/compact TiO2/Sb2SxSey/spiro-OMeTAD/Au achieved a power conversion efficiency of 5.54%, along with an open-circuit voltage of 0.56 V, a short-circuit photocurrent density of 16.16 mA cm−2 and a fill factor of 0.61. The low-temperature preparation process of crystalline Sb2SxSey thin films can provide a feasible approach for assembling the flexible Sb2SxSey thin film solar cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Risk for developing papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), the most common endocrine malignancy, is thought to be mediated by lifestyle, environmental exposures and genetic factors. Recent progress in the genome-wide association studies of thyroid cancer leads to the identification of several genetic variants conferring risk to this malignancy across different ethnicities. We set out to elucidate the impact of selected single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on PTC risk and to evaluate clinicopathological correlations of these genetic variants in the Kazakh population for the first time. Methods: Eight SNPs were genotyped in 485 patients with PTC and 1,008 healthy control Kazakh subjects. The association analysis and multivariable modeling of PTC risk by the genetic factors, supplemented with rigorous statistical validation, were performed. Result: Five of the eight SNPs: rs965513 (FOXE1 / PTCSC2 , P = 1.3E-16), rs1867277 (FOXE1 5'UTR, P = 7.5E-06), rs2439302 (NRG1 intron 1, P = 4.0E-05), rs944289 (PTCSC3 / NKX2-1 , P = 4.5E-06) and rs10136427 (BATF upstream , P = 9.8E-03) were significantly associated with PTC. rs966423 (DIRC3 , P = 0.07) showed a suggestive association. rs7267944 (DHX35) was associated with PTC risk in males (P = 0.02), rs1867277 (FOXE1) conferred the higher risk in subjects older than 55 years (P = 7.0E-05), and rs6983267 (POU5F1B/CCAT2) was associated with pT3–T4 tumors (P = 0.01). The contribution of genetic component (unidirectional independent effects of rs965513, rs944289, rs2439302 and rs10136427 adjusted for age and sex) to PTC risk in the analyzed series was estimated to be 30–40%. Conclusion: Genetic factors analyzed in the present work display significant association signals with PTC either on the whole group analysis or in particular clinicopathological groups and account for about one-third of the risk for PTC in the Kazakh population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the complexity of space environment and the difficulty of satellite maintenance in outer space, survivability has become one of the most important problems of LEO satellite constellation. Network survivability is the ability of a system to complete communication missions in case of encountering accidents, failures or attacks. A survivable LEO satellite constellation can guarantee a certain mission success rate when some satellites fail, but the completed performance depends on the architecture designed, resources owned and route adopted by the satellite constellation. The existing satellite network survivability evaluation methods can not accurately describe the impact of constellation design parameters, limited resources and access algorithm on survivability. To overcome the above shortcomings, this paper proposes a new survivability assessment model with resource constraints. We exploit the queue graphical evaluation and review technology random network with feedback to characterize resource limitations and describe the dynamic random mission transfer process of LEO satellite constellation. Based on the time, jitter and consumed resources produced by different link arc activities when completing missions, combined with queuing birth and death technology, we derive the mission cost and network utility function, aiming at reflecting the completion ability of LEO satellite constellation for communication mission after facing fault or strike. The results show that increasing the orbit height does not significantly improve the network survivability; rerouting load balancing access strategy can better share the mission of failed satellite; LEO satellite constellation has weak survivability towards GCF; user retry after mission failure will aggravate delay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early dissemination is a unique characteristic and a detrimental process of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC); however, the underlying mechanism remains largely unknown. Here, we investigate the role of dual-specificity phosphatase-2 (DUSP2)-vascular endothelial growth factor-C (VEGF-C) axis in mediating PDAC lymphangiogenesis and lymphovascular invasion. Expression of DUSP2 is greatly suppressed in PDAC, which results in increased aberrant expression of extracellular vesicle (EV)-associated VEGF-C secretion. EV-VEGF-C exerts paracrine effects on lymphatic endothelial cells and autocrine effects on cancer cells, resulting in the lymphovascular invasion of cancer cells. Tissue-specific knockout of Dusp2 in mouse pancreas recapitulates PDAC phenotype and lymphovascular invasion. Mechanistically, loss-of-DUSP2 enhances proprotein convertase activity and vesicle trafficking to promote the release of the mature form of EV-VEGF-C. Collectively, these findings represent a conceptual advance in understanding pancreatic cancer lymphovascular invasion and suggest that loss-of-DUSP2-mediated VEGF-C processing may play important roles in early dissemination of pancreatic cancer. Abbreviations: DUSP2: dual-specificity phosphatase-2; VEGF-C: vascular endothelial growth factor-C; EV: extracellular vesicles; PDAC: pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma; KD: knockdown [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Functionalized gravimetric sensors are a promising path to small, versatile, real-time vapor sensors for volatile organic compounds. Many of these compounds can be dangerous to human health, but their nonreactive nature makes them notoriously difficult to sense. Unlike bulk acoustic resonators, chemiresistive devices have been investigated extensively and many researchers have used innovative synthesis strategies to functionalize these devices. In this work, we demonstrate how modifying a particular sensitizer for use with a bulk acoustic resonator significantly improves the sensitivity of the device (5 ppm vs. 1.11 ppm). Additionally, readout circuitry is described to avoid some problems that typically plague gravimetric sensors while simplifying the overall system. These strategies create a playbook for simple, fast, and sensitive systems for sensing volatile organic compounds, while also demonstrating the lowest limit of detection for cyclohexanone outside of gas chromatography/mass spectrometery in the literature. [2020-0053] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early dissemination is a unique characteristic and a detrimental process of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC); however, the underlying mechanism remains largely unknown. Here, we investigate the role of dual‐specificity phosphatase‐2 (DUSP2)‐vascular endothelial growth factor‐C (VEGF‐C) axis in mediating PDAC lymphangiogenesis and lymphovascular invasion. Expression of DUSP2 is greatly suppressed in PDAC, which results in increased aberrant expression of extracellular vesicle (EV)‐associated VEGF‐C secretion. EV‐VEGF‐C exerts paracrine effects on lymphatic endothelial cells and autocrine effects on cancer cells, resulting in the lymphovascular invasion of cancer cells. Tissue‐specific knockout of Dusp2 in mouse pancreas recapitulates PDAC phenotype and lymphovascular invasion. Mechanistically, loss‐of‐DUSP2 enhances proprotein convertase activity and vesicle trafficking to promote the release of the mature form of EV‐VEGF‐C. Collectively, these findings represent a conceptual advance in understanding pancreatic cancer lymphovascular invasion and suggest that loss‐of‐DUSP2‐mediated VEGF‐C processing may play important roles in early dissemination of pancreatic cancer. Abbreviations: DUSP2: dual‐specificity phosphatase‐2; VEGF‐C: vascular endothelial growth factor‐C; EV: extracellular vesicles; PDAC: pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma; KD: knockdown [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The porous Sb2SxSe3-x thin films with different pore sizes were successfully prepared on the TiO2 compact layer by the pyrolysis of the precursor solution containing N-butyldithiocarbamic acid, Se, and Sb2O3 in DMF and using the relative low spin-coating speed. The effect of the pyrolysis temperature on the chemical composition, optical absorption, crystal phase, and pore size of the porous Sb2SxSe3-x thin films was investigated, and the corresponding solar cells were also fabricated. The results points out that the Sb2SxSe3-x thin film pore sizes decreased with the increase of the pyrolysis temperature from 360 to 440 °C. The porous Sb2SxSe3-x thin films provided a possible path for assembling the hybrid absorption layer with quantum dots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mast cells (MCs) are abundant in almost all vascularized tissues. Furthermore, their anatomical proximity to lymphatic vessels and their ability to synthesize, store and release a large array of inflammatory and vasoactive mediators emphasize their significance in the regulation of the lymphatic vascular functions. As a major secretory cell of the innate immune system, MCs maintain their steady-state granule release under normal physiological conditions; however, the inflammatory response potentiates their ability to synthesize and secrete these mediators. Activation of MCs in response to inflammatory signals can trigger adaptive immune responses by dendritic cell-directed T cell activation. In addition, through the secretion of various mediators, cytokines and growth factors, MCs not only facilitate interaction and migration of immune cells, but also influence lymphatic permeability, contractility, and vascular remodeling as well as immune cell trafficking through the lymphatic vessels. In summary, the consequences of these events directly affect the lymphatic niche, influencing inflammation at multiple levels. In this review, we have summarized the recent advancements in our understanding of the MC biology in the context of the lymphatic vascular system. We have further highlighted the MC-lymphatic interaction axis from the standpoint of the tumor microenvironment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, antimony selenide (Sb2Se3) thin films were prepared using electron-beam (e-beam) evaporation followed by selenization process (two-step method) for the first time. The effect of selenization temperature on the properties of Sb2Se3 thin films and solar cells was investigated systematically. Formation of pure polycrystalline Sb2Se3 was confirmed and the intensity of (hk1) and (hk2) patterns was found to decrease while that of (hk0) to increase with temperature elevating. However, when the temperature became higher than 360 °C, the shape of Sb2Se3 grains gradually changed to rod-like shape from round shape and some craters and cracks in the films can be observed. Sb2Se3 films prepared at 360 °C showed an average grain size of 450 nm, a roughness of 42 nm, an optical bandgap of 1.24 eV and a carrier concentration of 4.99 × 1012 cm−3. The corresponding Sb2Se3 solar cells exhibited an optimal power conversion efficiency of 1.15%. Our results demonstrated that the process of e-beam evaporation of Sb followed by selenization at appropriate temperature is a good way to prepare high quality Sb2Se3 thin films for solar cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The aim of this study was to examine the dexterity of both lower extremities in patients with stroke. Twenty patients with stroke and 20 age-matched control subjects participated in this study. To determine the dexterity of the lower extremities, we examined the ability to control muscle force during submaximal contractions in the knee extensor muscles using a force tracking task. The root mean square errors were calculated from the difference between the target and response force. The root mean square error was significantly greater in the affected limb of patients with stroke compared with those of the unaffected limb and the control subjects, and in the unaffected limb compared with that of the control subjects. Furthermore, the root mean square error of the affected limb was related significantly to motor function as determined by Fugl-Myer assessment. These results demonstrate impairment of the dexterity of both the affected and the unaffected lower extremities in patients with stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]