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Investigating the influence of the ambient chemical environment on molecular behaviors in liposomes is crucial for understanding and manipulating cellular vitality as well as the capabilities of lipid drug carriers in various environments. Here, we designed and synthesized a second harmonic generation (SHG) and fluorescence probe molecule called Pyr-Py+-N+ (PPN), which possesses membrane-targeting capability. We employed PPN to investigate the response of lipid vesicles composed of cardiolipin to the presence of exogenous salt. The kinetic behaviors, including the adsorption and embedding of PPN on the surface of small unilamellar vesicles (SUVs) composed of cardiolipin, were analyzed. The response of the SUVs to the addition of NaCl was also monitored. A rapid decrease in vesicle size can be evidenced through the rapid drop in SHG emission originating from PPN located on the vesicle surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subtribe Calypsoinae (Epidendroideae, Orchidaceae) comprises several fully mycoheterotrophic species. Phylogenetic analysis indicates that full mycoheterotrophy has evolved independently at least four times within this group, including the Yoania clade. The taxonomic classification of Yoania species has been challenging. Therefore, to understand the plastomic degeneration during the evolution of mycoheterotrophy and to uncover the phylogenetic relationship within Yoania , we conducted a phylogenetic analysis using eight specimens representing all six recognized Yoania taxa from the complete plastome and partial ribosomal DNA (rDNA) operon sequence (ETS–18S–ITS1–5.8S–ITS2–26S). Among the Calypsoinae taxa examined, Yoania possessed the shortest plastome, ranging from 43 998 to 44 940 bp. Comparative analysis of the plastomes revealed a relatively conserved gene structure, content, and order, with species-level sequence variation (in the form of indels) primarily observed in the intergenic spacer regions. Plastomic gene-block inversions were observed between Yoania and Danxiaorchis singchiana , but not between Yoania and other related genera. Phylogenetic analyses based on the plastome and rDNA data strongly supported the monophyletic placement of Yoania within Calypsoinae, and indicated substantial molecular divergence between Yoania and other Calypsoinae taxa. Yoania can thus be considered genetically isolated from the other Calypsoinae taxa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural evolution endows some insects and marine organisms with a special class of protein-based elastic tissues that possess energy feedback characteristics, providing them with the foundation for jumping and flying, and protecting them from the damage caused by movements or waves. However, the design and fabrication of such protein-based elastomeric materials that can function in human society through biomimetic strategies still remains challenging. Recombinant proteins designed by synthetic biology can mimic the advantageous structures in natural proteins and can be biosynthesized without the requirements for harsh conditions such as high temperatures and cytotoxic agents, which provides a great opportunity to prepare protein-based elastomeric materials. In this review, starting from the design of protein molecules, we highlight an overview of the synthesis of elastomeric materials based on recombinant resilin, recombinant elastin-like proteins and other recombinant folded proteins, etc., and then demonstrate their application progress in the fields of biomedicine and high technology. Finally, the challenges and prospects for the future development of protein-based elastomeric materials are envisioned to provide insights into the design and synthesis of the next generation of protein-based elastomeric materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Surgical site infection (SSI) is common after laparoscopic appendectomy, resulting in prolonged hospital stay and increased costs. This study examined the relationship between body composition parameters and risk of incisional SSI in patients with complicated appendicitis. Methods: We included 411 patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery for complicated appendicitis at a single institution between March 2015 and October 2023. Body composition parameters were derived from preoperative computed tomography (CT). A nomogram was constructed based on the independent predictors of incisional SSI. Results: Overall, 45 (10.9%) patients developed incisional SSI. Visceral fat area (VFA) was independently associated with risk of incisional SSI (hazard ratio 1.015, 95% confidence interval 1.010–1.020, P < 0.001). A nomogram integrating VFA and two other independent predictors (diabetes and conversion) demonstrated high discriminative (area under the curve = 0.793) and calibration abilities. Conclusions: CT-derived VFA could be a valuable predictor of incisional SSI in patients with complicated appendicitis undergoing laparoscopic surgery. A VFA-based nomogram may help in identifying patients at high risk of SSI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with persistent systemic inflammation. Reduced red blood cell (RBC) survival in patients with CKD has been identified for several decades. The purpose of this study is to explore whether excessive erythrophagocytosis exists and contributes to systemic inflammation in CKD. Patients and methods: A CKD rat model was induced by 5/6 nephrectomy. Erythrocyte osmotic fragility was determined with hypotonic NaCl solutions. Erythrocyte deformability was evaluated by filterability. RBC cell death was quantified using fluorescence-activated cell sorting analyses of fluorescent annexin V–bound surface phosphatidylserine (PS). Erythrophagocytosis was evaluated in vivo and in vitro. RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry were used to determine the inflammatory effects after erythrophagocytosis. Results: Erythrocyte osmotic fragility and deformability progressively declined, and the percentage of PS-exposing RBCs progressively increased in CKD rats. Levels of erythrophagocytosis in vivo were evaluated by autologous injection of CFSE-labeled erythrocytes. In comparison with the control group, higher fluorescence intensity of CFSE was detected in the spleen homogenates of rats with CKD. In vitro, more of erythrocytes from 5/6Nx rats were phagocytosed by peritoneal macrophages in comparison to those from control rats. Compared with macrophages phagocytosed control erythrocytes, macrophages phagocytosed CKD erythrocytes exhibited higher mRNA levels of IL-6, CXCL-10, CXCL-11, iNOS, IL-1β, ICAM-1 and MCP-1. Compared with the control group, the red pulp of rats with CKD exhibited higher levels of p-NFκB, IL-6, iNOS and CXCL-10. ELISA results showed significantly increased plasma levels of both IL-6 and CXCL-10 in patients with long-term hemodialysis compared with those in healthy controls (2.30 ± 1.38 pg/mL vs 1.33 ± 0.65 pg/mL, P=0.01; 78.11 ± 27.34 pg/mL vs 37.45 ± 7.08 pg/mL, P=0.001). Conclusion: Our results indicated that excessive erythrophagocytosis may contribute to systemic inflammation in CKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Seroma formation is the most common cause of morbidity associated with laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair. This study aimed to examine the relationship between the thickness of subcutaneous fat (TSF) and the risk of postoperative seroma. Methods: We reviewed data from a prospective cohort of 229 male patients who underwent laparoscopic total extra-peritoneal (TEP) hernioplasty for indirect inguinal hernia between August 2018 and July 2021. The TSF was assessed using preoperative ultrasound images. The risk factors for postoperative seroma were determined using univariate and multivariate logistic regression models. Results: Postoperative seromas occurred in 26 patients (11.4%). The factors associated with postoperative seroma included longer hernia duration, larger hernia defects, extension into the scrotum, and greater TSF (P < 0.05). In multivariate analysis, a greater TSF was independently associated with a greater risk of postoperative seroma (per 1 mm: odd ratio [OR] 1.105, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.048–1.165, P < 0.001; TSF ≥ 26.0 mm: OR 7.033, 95% CI 2.485–19.901, P < 0.001). Similar results were obtained in the subgroup analysis. The area under the curve of TSF for predicting seroma formation was 0.703 (95% CI 0.601–0.806). Conclusion: Ultrasound-derived TSF may be a promising prognostic factor for postoperative seroma in patients undergoing laparoscopic TEP repair. Further validation is required and then this parameter can be used to improve decision-making process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Relict species are important for enhancing the understanding of modern biogeographic distribution patterns. Although both geological and climatic changes since the Cenozoic have affected the relict flora in East Asia, the contributions of geographical processes remain unclear. In this study, we employed restriction-site associated DNA sequencing (RAD-seq) and shallow genome sequencing data, in conjunction with ecological niche modeling (ENM), to investigate the spatial genetic patterns and population differentiation history of the relict species Rehderodendron kwangtungense Chun. Results: A total of 138 individuals from 16 populations were collected, largely covering the natural distribution of R. kwangtungense. The genetic diversity within the R. kwangtungense populations was extremely low (HO = 0.048 ± 0.019; HE = 0.033 ± 0.011). Mantel tests revealed isolation-by-distance pattern (R2 = 0.38, P < 0.001), and AMOVA analysis showed that the genetic variation of R. kwangtungense occurs mainly between populations (86.88%, K = 7). Between 23 and 21 Ma, R. kwangtungense underwent a period of rapid differentiation that coincided with the rise of the Himalayas and the establishment of the East Asian monsoon. According to ENM and population demographic history, the suitable area and effective population size of R. kwangtungense decreased sharply during the glacial period and expanded after the last glacial maximum (LGM). Conclusion: Our study shows that the distribution pattern of southern China mountain relict flora may have developed during the panplain stage between the middle Oligocene and the early Miocene. Then, the flora later fragmented under the force of orogenesis, including intermittent uplift during the Cenozoic Himalayan orogeny and the formation of abundant rainfall associated with the East Asian monsoon. The findings emphasized the predominant role of geographical processes in shaping relict plant distribution patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bones are vital for anchoring muscles, tendons, and ligaments, serving as a fundamental element of the human skeletal structure. However, our understanding of bone development mechanisms and the maintenance of bone homeostasis is still limited. Extracellular signal-related kinase 5 (ERK5), a recently identified member of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) family, plays a critical role in the pathogenesis and progression of various diseases, especially neoplasms. Recent studies have highlighted ERK5's significant role in both bone development and bone-associated pathologies. This review offers a detailed examination of the latest research on ERK5 in different tissues and diseases, with a particular focus on its implications for bone health. It also examines therapeutic strategies and future research avenues targeting ERK5. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To biomechanically compare the initial fixation strength of grafts among three tibial tunnel angles (30°/45°/60°) in transtibial posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction. Methods: A series of transtibial PCL reconstruction models were established with porcine tibias and bovine tendons. Specimens were randomly assigned to three groups according to the angles between the tibial tunnel and the perpendicular line of the tibial shaft: Group A (30°, n = 12), Group B (45°, n = 12), and Group C (60°, n = 12). The area of the tunnel entrance, the segmental bone mineral density (sBMD) of the graft fixation site of the tibia and the maximum insertion torque of the interference screw were measured. Finally, load to failure tests were carried out on the graft-screw-tibia constructs at the same rate. Results: Ultimate load to failure in Group C (335.2 ± 107.5 N) was significantly lower than that in Group A (584.1 ± 127.9 N, P < 0.01) and Group B (521.9 ± 95.9 N, P < 0.01). There were no significant differences between biomechanical properties of Groups A and B (n.s.). The posterior part fractures of the tibial tunnel exit occurred in eight specimens of Group C. In addition, the ultimate load was proven to be related to insertion torque (rho = 0.7, P < 0.01), sBMD (rho = 0.7, P < 0.01), and the area of the tunnel entrance (rho =− 0.4, P = 0.01). Conclusion: The ultimate load to failure was significantly lower in tibial PCL interference screw fixation for tunnels drilled at 60° compared to 30°/45°. In addition, the ultimate load was significantly correlated with insertion torque, sBMD and the area of the tunnel entrance. Given that the load to failure of distal fixation may not be sufficient for early postoperative rehabilitation, a 60° tunnel should not be recommended to drill in tibia during PCL reconstruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Medial meniscus extrusion (MME) refers to the protrusion of the medial meniscus beyond the tibial edge by more than 3 mm, leading to a deficiency of the hoop strain. MME commonly occurs in conjunction with osteoarthritis (OA) or medial meniscal tears (MMT). However, factors associated with concomitant MME in patients with OA or MMT have not been systematically reviewed. This study aims to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to identify factors associated with concomitant MME in OA or MMT. Methods: The systematic review of the literature was performed according to PRISMA. A literature search was conducted in 4 databases. All original human studies that reported the available evidence on factors associated with concomitant MME in patients with OA or MMT were included. Pooled binary variables were analyzed by odds ratios (OR) and 95% CIs, and pooled continuous variables were evaluated by mean difference (MD) and 95% CIs. Results: Ten studies on OA (5993 patients) and eight studies on MMT (872 patients) met the inclusion criteria. The overall pooled incidence of MME was 43% (95% CI, 37–50%) for OA, 61% (95% CI 43–77%) for MMT, and 85% (95% CI 72–94%) for medial meniscal root tears (MMRT). For the population with OA, Factors significantly associated with MME included radiographic OA [OR 4.24; 95% CI 3.07–5.84; P < 0.0001], bone marrow lesions [OR, 3.35; 95% CI 1.61–6.99; P = 0.0013], cartilage damage [OR, 3.25; 95% CI 1.60–6.61; P = 0.0011], and higher body mass index (BMI) [MD, 1.81; 95% CI 1.15–2.48; P < 0.0001]. Factors strongly associated with increased risk of MME for MMT included medial meniscal root [OR, 8.39; 95% CI 2.84–24.82; P < 0.0001] and radial tears [OR, 2.64; 95% CI 1.18–5.92; P < 0.0001]. Conclusion: Radiographic OA, bone marrow lesions, cartilage damage, and higher BMI were significantly associated with concomitant MME with OA. Furthermore, medial meniscal root and radial tears were significantly associated with an increased risk of MME in patients with MMT. Level of evidence: IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, although light‐driven soft actuators have attracted intense scientific attention and achieved remarkable progress, the design and construction of an intelligent robotic system with maneuverability, self‐adaptability, untethered control, and greater freedom of action, in particular the omnidirectional motion capability on a plane, remains challenging. Herein, four types of photo‐thermal fillers and an unprecedented twist‐bend actuation mode is introduced into a liquid crystal elastomer‐based soft robot. The obtained twist‐bend crawling robot not only exhibits in situ rotation, four‐way turning, and four‐way linear motion under light irradiation with four wavelength bands (520, 655, 808, and 980 nm), but also demonstrates the ability to avoid obstacles in complex geographical environments. This work may bring a new perspective for fabrication and development of soft robots that can adapt to dynamic and complex environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The on-ramp merging on the freeway which causes reduced traffic efficiency, increased risks of collision, and more fuel consumption is one of the research hotspots. The mixed traffic made up of connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs) and connected and human-driving vehicles (CHVs) is the trend of the future intelligent traffic. Therefore, to facilitate the on-ramp merging on the freeway in mixed traffic, this paper proposes a hybrid cooperative strategy to the heterogeneous vehicles in a merging zone. As a cyber-physical system, the on-ramp merging on the freeway in mixed traffic was divided into four types and analyzed. In this study, we proposed a synergetic merging framework based on the vehicle-infrastructure cooperative theory for the on-ramp merging to ensure successful merging of mixed traffic. For different types of vehicles in mixed traffic, we designed different control methods, respectively. For CHVs and CAVs, centralized induced control method (CICM) and distributed autonomous control method (DACM) were designed. When designing these two methods, we separately considered two classic and important human factors: the reaction time of drivers of CHVs and the comfort of CAVs' passengers. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed strategy and methods was validated through simulations. The proposed hybrid cooperative strategy can derive an optimal trajectory for each vehicle. The control method of CAVs can obtain the optimal trajectory while satisfy the comfort requirements of passengers. By analyzing results of simulations, it can be known that the reaction time of drivers has a certain effect on the state of the CHVs' merging process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Percutaneous suture is a classic technique used in Achilles tendon repair. However, the complication rates surrounding the sural nerve remain relatively high. Modified percutaneous repair technology can effectively avoid these complications; however, the surgical procedure is complicated. Hence, the present study was conducted to describe a redesigned repair technique for the Achilles tendon able to avoid sural nerve injury and reduce the complexity of the procedure. Methods: Data of patients with acute primary Achilles tendon rupture at our hospital from January 2019 to May 2020 were included. Subjects with expectations for surgical scarring underwent a minimally invasive‐combined percutaneous puncture technique. The surgical time, requirement for conversion to other technologies, and length of postoperative hospitalization were investigated to assess efficacy. The American Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score and the Arner–Lindholm scale (A‐L scale) were used to assess postoperative clinical outcomes (> 24 months). During the 2‐year follow‐up, MRI was performed to observe the healing of the Achilles tendon. In addition, subjective satisfaction with surgical scar healing was recorded. Resul ts : Twenty consecutive subjects with an average follow‐up of 28.3 ± 4.5 months (range, 24–41) met the inclusion criteria. None of the 20 enrolled patients required a converted surgical approach. The mean surgical time was 26.9 ± 6.47 min (range, 20–44). None of the patients experienced dysesthesia or anesthesia around the sural nerve. No signs of postoperative infections were observed. MRI data showed that the wounds of the Achilles tendon healed completely in all the subjects. The AOFAS score increased from 55.6 ± 11.07 (range, 28–71) preoperatively to 97.8 ± 3.34 (range, 87–100) at the last follow‐up. The A‐L scale showed that 90% of the subjects (n = 18) presented as excellent and 10% of the subjects (n = 2) presented as good, with an excellent/good rate of 100%. Moreover, subjects' satisfaction for surgical scars was 9.1 ± 0.78 (upper limit, 10). Conclusions: The results indicate that this technique can achieve good postoperative function, a small surgical incision, and high scar satisfaction. In addition, this technique should be widely used in suturing Achilles tendon ruptures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bone bruises and concomitant ligament injuries after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries have attracted attention, but their correlation and potential clinical significance remain unclear. Purpose: To assess the relationship between bone bruises and concomitant ligamentous injuries in ACL injuries. Study design: Systematic review. Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library was completed from inception to October 20, 2021. All articles that evaluated the relationship between bone bruises and related ligaments injuries were included. Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) was used for quality assessment as well as Review Manager 5.3 was used for data analysis. Results: A total of 19 studies evaluating 3292 patients were included. After meta-analysis, anterolateral ligament (ALL) injuries were associated with bone bruising on the lateral tibial plateau (LTP) (RR = 2.33; 95% CI 1.44–3.77; p = 0.0006), lateral femoral condyle (LFC) (RR = 1.97; 95% CI 1.37–2.85; p = 0.0003) and medial tibial plateau (MTP) (RR = 1.62; 95% CI 1.24–2.11; p = 0.0004); Moreover, medial collateral ligament (MCL) injuries were associated with bone bruising on the femur (RR = 1.49; 95% CI 1.17–1.90; p = 0.001), and no statistical significance was found between bone bruising on the MTP and Kaplan fiber (KF) injuries (RR = 1.58; 95% CI 1.00–2.49; p = 0.05). Nonetheless, the current evidence did not conclude that bone bruises were associated with lateral collateral ligament (LCL) injuries. Conclusion: For individuals with an ACL injury, bone bruises of the LTP, LFC, and MTP can assist in the diagnosis of ALL injuries. Furthermore, femoral bruising has potential diagnostic value for MCL injuries. Knowing these associations allows surgeons to be alert to ACL-related ligament injuries on MRI and during operations in future clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to investigate the association between sleep duration and bone mineral density (BMD) and determine whether vitamin D (VD) status influenced the association between sleep duration and BMD. Methods: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2007–2014 participants aged ≥ 40 years were included in this study. BMD testing was conducted with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry examinations. Moreover, all individuals were divided into four groups according to self-reported nocturnal sleep duration (7–8 h; 6 h; < 6 h; and > 8 h). In addition, the differences in BMD between the normal sleep duration group and other groups were calculated using multiple linear regression models. Results: Overall, the median age of the overall study population was 55.00 years old, with 46.97% of men distributed. Participants sleeping > 8 h/night had lower BMDs than those sleeping 7–8 h/night. Moreover, the association between unhealthy sleep duration (especially > 8 h/night) and low BMD was more pronounced in older individuals, men, postmenopausal women, and subjects with inadequate VD intakes (< 15.00 µg/day) or deficient/insufficient serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (< 75.00 nmol/L). Conclusions: In conclusion, unhealthy sleep duration, especially long sleep duration, was associated with decreased BMD, particularly among individuals aged > 60 years, men, or postmenopausal women. Moreover, VD status might influence the association between sleep duration and BMD, especially in the context of inadequate VD intake or deficient/insufficient serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels. However, given the limitations of the present study, further investigation is warranted to confirm this association and to explore potential mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, to explore the influence of expected speed on traffic flow in helical ramps, a new car-following model for intelligent connected vehicles (ICVs) was established for helical ramps, mainly considering the expected speed provided in the vehicle-to-everything (V2X) environment. On this basis, sufficient conditions to ensure the stability of the traffic stream were met and the congestion propagation mechanism was discussed by using a linear stability analysis and nonlinear stability analysis. The results showed that the ICVs can effectively increase the stability of the traffic flow by considering the expected speed of the helical ramps. When the feedback coefficients of the expected speed of the helical ramps were 0.3 and 0.5, the stability of the traffic flow changed significantly, especially in the uphill section; the feedback coefficient was 0.5 when the traffic flow was completely restored to the initial steady state even under the action of small disturbances. In a difficult field-driving test, this paper showed through a numerical simulation that broadcasting an expected speed to the ICVs in the helical ramps can effectively improve the stability of traffic flow, which provides a theoretical basis for future landing applications of ICVs in complex road scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Lateral meniscus posterior root tears (LMPRTs) are commonly found in patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. However, risk factors for LMPRTs are not well known. This study was designed to systematically review the available evidence regarding risk factors associated with LMPRTs. Methods: The PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases were searched for papers containing the key words "lateral meniscus posterior root tears", "LMPRTs" and "risk factor". Inclusion screening, data extraction, and quality assessment of the included articles were conducted independently by two authors. Statistical analysis was conducted to determine risk factors for LMPRTs. Result: Seventeen studies with a total sample size of 6, 589 patients were identified. The pooled prevalence of LMPRTs was 9.6% (range, 5.1–33.8%) for ACL injury. Significant risk factors included a patient age of < 30 [OR = 1.4, 95% CI (1.07, 1.84), p = 0.01], male sex [OR = 1.50, 95% CI (1.24,1.81), p = 0.01], higher body mass index (BMI) [MD = 0.45, 95% CI (0.13, 0.76), p < 0.01], higher lateral posterior tibial slope (LPTS) [MD = 2.22, 95% CI (1.37, 3.07), p < 0.01], deep sulcus sign [OR = 5.76, 95% CI (1.35, 24.52), p < 0.01] and bone bruises on lateral femoral condyle [OR = 4.88, 95% CI (1.27, 18.77), p < 0.01], lateral meniscal extrusion > 1 mm [OR = 5.56, 95% CI (1.52, 20.29), p < 0.01] and > 3 mm [OR = 12.91 95% CI (1.28, 130.01), p < 0.01], medial meniscal tears [OR = 1.40, 95% CI (1.12, 1.75), p < 0.01], and medial ramp lesions [OR = 2.29, 95% CI (1.35, 3.89), p < 0.01]. Conclusion: Age below 30, male, higher BMI, higher LPTS, deep sulcus sign, bone bruises on lateral femoral condyle, lateral meniscal extrusion, medial meniscal tear, and medial ramp lesion are risk factors for LMPRTs. Level of evidence: Level IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adhesives play an important role in the areas of biomedicine and engineering manufacture. Barnacle cement is a polyprotein complex secreted by barnacle, which can bind with various kinds of underwater substances; therefore, becoming a hotspot of new bionic adhesive materials because of its superior adhesion. The low solubility and complicated secretion process of barnacle cement hinder current understanding of its components, physicochemical properties, synthetic process, and so forth. This review mainly summarizes the latest research advances and applicable potentials of barnacle cement characterized by rapid adhesion, uneasy degradation, polymerized curing in an underwater environment, and so forth, and provides reference for both research and development of bioinspired synthetic wet adhesives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: During the transtibial posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction, surgeons commonly pay more attention to the graft turning angle in the sagittal plane (GASP), but the graft turning angle in the coronal plane (GACP) is always neglected. This study hypothesized that the three‐dimensional (3D) killer turn angle was determined by both the GASP and GACP, and aimed to quantitively analyze the effects of the GASP and GACP on the 3D killer turn angle. Methods: This was an in‐vitro computer simulation study of transtibial PCL reconstruction using 3D knee models. Patients with knee injuries who were CT scanned were selected from the CT database (April 2019 to January 2021) at a local hospital for reviewing. A total of 60 3D knees were simulated based on the knees' CT data. The femoral and tibial PCL attachment were located on the 3D knee model using the Rhinoceros software. The tibial tunnels were simulated based on different GASP and GACP. The effects of the GASP and GACP on the 3D killer turn angle were quantitatively analyzed. One‐way analysis of variance was used to compare the outcomes in different groups. The regression analysis was performed to identify variables of the GASP and GACP which significantly affected 3D killer turn angle. Results: The 3D killer turn angle showed a significant proportional relationship not only with the GASP (r2 > 0.868, P < 0.001), but also with the GACP (r2 > 0.467, P < 0.001). Every 10° change of the GACP caused 2.8° to 4.4° change of the 3D killer turn angle, whereas every 10° change of the GASP caused 6.4° to 9.2° change of the 3D killer turn angle. Conclusions: The 3D killer turn angle was significantly affected by both the GASP and GACP. During the transtibial PCL reconstruction, the proximal anterolateral tibial tunnel approach could increase the 3D killer turn angle more obviously compared with the most distal anteromedial tibial tunnel approach. To minimize the killer turn effect, both the GASP and GACP were required to be considered to increase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This population-based study investigated the association between depression and bone mineral density (BMD), fractures, and osteoporosis in the US population. We found that participants with depression had lower BMD and were more likely to have fractures and osteoporosis. Background: Depression, fractures, and osteoporosis are common in middle-aged and elderly, but their associations remained unclear. Objective: To investigate the association between depression and bone mineral density (BMD), osteoporosis, and fracture in a middle-aged and elderly US population. Methods: A nationally representative cross-sectional study used the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) datasets. Depression was assessed and stratified using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). The multiple logistic regression models and the logistic binary regression models were used to analyze the association between depression and BMD, fractures, and osteoporosis. Gender, age, race, educational level, poverty ratio, body mass index (BMI), smoke, alcohol use, physical activity, and diabetes were included as covariates. Subgroup analysis was also conducted on gender, age, race, and education level. Results: In total, 9766 participants were included after a series of exclusions, and 4179 (42.79%) had at least mild depressive symptoms. Compared to the participants without depression, those with depression had a lower total femur, femoral neck, and total spine BMD after adjusting multiple covariates. The multivariable-adjusted logistic binary regression models demonstrated that participants with depression more likely have hip fractures (OR = 1.518, 95% CI: 1.377–2.703, P = 0.000), spine fractures (OR = 1.311, 95% CI: 1.022–1.678, P = 0.030), and osteoporosis (OR = 1.621, 95% CI: 1.388–1.890, P = 0.000). Subgroup analysis revealed that depressed participants who were males, non-Hispanic White, ≤ 70 years, and not highly educated had a lower BMD and easily had osteoporosis. Conclusion: Depression was associated with lower BMD, particularly in the spine, males, Hispanic-White, and not highly educated populations. Moreover, people with depression were more likely to have fractures and osteoporosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The incidence of allergic reaction is increasing year by year, but the specific mechanism is still unclear. Paeonia lactiflora Pall.(PLP) is a traditional Chinese medicine with various pharmacological effects such as anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, and immune regulation. Previous studies have shown that PLP has potential anti-allergic activity. However, there is still no comprehensive analysis of the targeted effects and exact molecular mechanisms of the anti-allergic components of PLP. This study aimed to reveal the mechanism of PLP. in the treatment of type I allergy by combining network pharmacological methods and experimental verification. Methods: First, we used the traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology (TCMSP) database and analysis platform to screen the main components and targets of PLP, and then used databases such as GeneCards to retrieve target information related to 'allergy'. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) analysis obtained the core target genes in the intersection target, and then imported the intersection target into the David database for gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) analysis. Furthermore, the therapeutic effect of paeoniflorin, the main component of PLP, on IgE-induced type I allergy was evaluated in vitro. Results: GO analysis obtained the main biological processes, cell components and molecular functions involved in the target genes. KEGG analysis screened out MAPK1, MAPK10, MAPK14 and TNF that have a strong correlation with PLP anti-type I allergy, and showed that PLP may pass through signal pathways such as IgE/FcεR I, PI3K/Akt and MAPK to regulate type I allergy. RT-qPCR and Western Blot results confirmed that paeoniflorin can inhibit the expression of key genes and down-regulate the phosphorylation level of proteins in these signal pathways. It further proved the reliability of the results of network pharmacology research. Conclusion: The results of this study will provide a basis for revealing the multi-dimensional regulatory mechanism of PLP for the treatment of type I allergy and the development of new drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a novel lane keeping control method for automated vehicles based on human-simulated intelligent control (HSIC) is proposed, which is inspired by human expert drivers’ steering characteristics including good foresight, precise execution and notable intermittency. The novelty of the paper is to introduce the HSIC concept into lateral control of vehicles, which is a multi-mode control scheme implemented by the combination of the feedforward control for curve tracking and act-and-wait control for intermittent error correction. Theoretically, the stabilization problem of the HSIC method is investigated based on the switched system related method. Experiments on the joint simulation platform of PreScan and CarSim show that the newly presented HSIC scheme has better matching performance to the expert driver and good robustness. For automated lane keeping systems, the HSIC method could provide human-like qualities, which may be one of the essential points to determine whether the driver is comfortable or not when the driver hands over the steering authority, improve the transition smoothness in the scenario of human vehicle co-piloting, and eliminate the potential conflicts between manual driving and automated driving vehicles in the future mixed traffic flow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The posterior tibial slope (PTS) is considered a risk factor for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. However, the influence of PTS on graft failure following ACL reconstruction remains relatively unknown. Therefore, this systematic review was conducted to investigate whether PTS could be a potential risk factor for graft failure after ACL reconstruction. Methods: PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure Database, and Wanfang Database were comprehensively searched from inception to March 31, 2021. Observational studies reporting the associations of medial tibial plateau slope (MTPS) or lateral tibial plateau slope (LTPS) with graft failure after ACL reconstruction were evaluated. Results: Twenty studies involving 12 case–control studies, 4 retrospective studies and 4 cross-sectional studies including 5326 patients met the final inclusion criteria. The high heterogeneity and the characteristics of nonrandomized controlled trials limited data synthesis. Fifteen of the 20 included studies detected a significant association between increased PTS and ACL graft failure, while 5 studies concluded that increased PTS was not associated with ACL graft failure. Ten studies suggested that MTPS is associated with ACL graft failure, and six studies suggested that LTPS is associated with ACL graft failure. The mean MTPS values for nonfailure group ranged from 3.5° ± 2.5° to 14.4° ± 2.8°. For the graft failure group, MTPS ranged from 4.71° ± 2.41° to 17.2° ± 2.2°. The mean LTPS values for nonfailure group ranged from 2.9° ± 2.1° to 11.9° ± 3.0°. For the graft failure group, LTPS ranged from 5.5° ± 3.0° to 13.3° ± 3.0°. The reported PTS values that caused ACL graft failure was greater than 7.4° to 17°. Conclusion: Based on the current clinical evidence, increased PTS is associated with a higher risk of ACL graft failure after ACL reconstruction. Despite various methods of measuring PTS have high reliability, there is still vast disagreement in the actual value of PTS. Level of evidence: IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the permissive safe angle (PSA) of the tibial tunnel in transtibial posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction based on a three‐dimensional (3D) simulation study. Methods: This was a computer simulation study of transtibial PCL reconstruction using 3D knee models. CT images of 90 normal knee joints from 2017 to 2020 were collected in this study, and 3D knee models were established based on CT data. The tunnel approaches were subdivided into the anterior 1/3 of the anteromedial tibia (T1), middle 1/2 of the anteromedial tibia (T2), the tibial crest (T3), anterior 1/3 of the anterolateral tibia (T4), middle 1/2 of the anterolateral tibia (T5). Five tibial tunnels (T1–T5) were simulated on the 3D knee models. The PSAs, in different tibial tunnel approaches were measured, and subgroup analyses of sex, age and height were also carried out. Results: The mean PSAs of the tibial tunnels with 5 different approaches (T1–T5) were 58.49° ± 6.82°, 61.14° ± 6.69°, 56.12° ± 7.53°, 52.01° ± 8.89° and 49.90° ± 10.53°, respectively. The differences of the mean PSAs between the anteromedial and anterolateral approaches were significant (P < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference of the mean PSA value between the two anteromedial tibial tunnel approaches (T1–T2) (P > 0.05), as well as between the two anterolateral tibial tunnel approaches (T4–T5). The patient's anthropomorphic characteristics of sex, age, and height were not associated with the PSAs. Conclusions: The PSA varied with the anteromedial, tibial crest and anterolateral approaches for transtibial PCL reconstruction, and surgeons should limit the PCL drill guide by referring to the specific PSA for different surgical approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Osteoporosis (OP) is a common disease among adults aged >50 years. At present, the main approach to screen or to diagnosis OP is mainly via bone mineral density (BMD) testing, which might not be optimal for OP screening. This study aimed to develop and validate a convenient and effective prediction model for screening OP based on the demographic information, medical history, and lifestyle habits in the elderly in the United States. Methods: All data were collected from the National Health and Nutrition Survey database. Participants aged ≥50 years with complete BMD data were included in this study. Twelve candidate predictors were initially selected to develop the prediction model. Final predictors screening and model development were based on multivariate logistic regression. Model discrimination (C statistic) and calibration (Brier scores) were calculated to evaluate the performance of the model. Internal validation was performed using the bootstrap resampling technique, and external validation was based on the validation cohort. Results: The screening tool was developed with individual patient data from 1941 patients and validated with data from 1947 patients after the development of the model. Seven predictors (patient age, sex, race, body mass index, physical activity, sleep duration, and history of fracture) were included in the final prediction model, and the final model had a C statistic of 0.849 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.820–0.878] and Brier scores of 0.062 [95% CI: 0.054–0.070] on the development cohort. For the validation of the developed model, the results showed a C statistic >0.800 and Brier scores <0.070, irrespective of internal validation or external validation. Conclusions: A novel screening tool for OP in the elderly, which has excellent discrimination and useful calibration, has been developed and externally validated. Considering its simplicity, generalizability, and accuracy, this tool has the potential to become a practical mean for the elderly to screen OP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To minimize the killer turn caused by the sharp margin of the tibial tunnel exit in transtibial PCL reconstruction, surgeons tend to maximize the angle of the tibial tunnel in relation to the tibial plateau. However, to date, no consensus has been reached regarding the maximum angle for the PCL tibial tunnel.Questions/purposes: In this study we sought (1) to determine the maximum tibial tunnel angle for the anteromedial and anterolateral approaches in transtibial PCL reconstruction; (2) to compare the differences in the maximum angle based on three measurement methods: virtual radiographs, CT images, and three-dimensional (3D) knee models; and (3) to conduct a correlation analysis to determine whether patient anthropomorphic factors (age, sex, height, and BMI) are associated with the maximum tibial tunnel angle.Methods: Between January 2018 and December 2020, 625 patients who underwent CT scanning for knee injuries were retrospectively reviewed in our institution. Inclusion criteria were patients 18 to 60 years of age with a Kellgren-Lawrence grade of knee osteoarthritis less than 1 and CT images that clearly showed the PCL tibial attachment. Exclusion criteria were patients with a history of tibial plateau fracture, PCL injuries, tumor, and deformity around the knee. Finally, 104 patients (43 males and 61 females, median age: 38 [range 24 to 56] years, height: 165 ± 9 cm, median BMI: 23 kg/cm2 [range 17 to 31]) were included for analysis. CT data were used to create virtual 3D knee models, and virtual true lateral knee radiographs were obtained by rotating the 3D knee models. Virtual 3D knee models were used as an in vitro standard method to assess the true maximum tibial tunnel angle of anteromedial and anterolateral approaches in transtibial PCL reconstruction. The tibial tunnel's entry was placed 1.5 cm anteromedial and anterolateral to the tibial tubercle for the two approaches. To obtain the maximum angle, a 10-mm- diameter tibial tunnel was simulated by making the tibial tunnel near the posterior tibial cortex. The maximum tibial tunnel angle, tibial tunnel lengths, and perpendicular distances of the tunnel's entry point to the tibial plateau were measured on virtual radiographs, CT images, and virtual 3D knee models. One-way ANOVA was used to compare the differences in the maximum angle among groups, and correlation analysis was performed to identify the relationship of the maximum angle and anthropomorphic factors (age, sex, height, and BMI).Results: The maximum angle of the PCL tibial tunnel relative to the tibial plateau was greater in the anteromedial group than the anterolateral group (58° ± 8° versus 50° ± 8°, mean difference 8° [95% CI 6° to 10°]; p < 0.001). The maximum angle of the PCL tibial tunnel was greater in the virtual radiograph group than the CT image (68° ± 6° versus 49° ± 5°, mean difference 19° [95% CI 17° to 21°]; p < 0.001), the anteromedial approach (68° ± 6° versus 58° ± 8°, mean difference 10° [95% CI 8° to 12°]; p < 0.001), and the anterolateral approach (68° ± 6° versus 50° ± 8°, mean difference 18° [95% CI 16° to 20°]; p < 0.001), but no difference was found between the CT image and the anterolateral groups (49° ± 5° versus 50° ± 8°, mean difference -1° [95% CI -4° to 1°]; p = 0.79). We found no patient anthropomorphic characteristics (age, sex, height, and BMI) that were associated with the maximum angle.Conclusion: Surgeons should note that the mean maximum angle of the tibial tunnel relative to the tibial plateau was greater in the anteromedial than anterolateral approach in PCL reconstruction, and the maximum angle might be overestimated on virtual radiographs and underestimated on CT images.Clinical Relevance: To perform PCL reconstruction more safely, the findings of this study suggest that the PCL drill system should be set differently for the anteromedial and anterolateral approaches, and the maximum angle measured by intraoperative fluoroscopy should be reduced 10° for the anteromedial approach and 18° for the anterolateral approach. Future clinical or cadaveric studies are needed to validate our findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a traffic flow control scheme of connected vehicles to stabilize a traffic system with on-ramps from a macromodel point of view. Firstly, this paper establishes a lattice hydrodynamic model with on-ramps, and an output feedback controller is designed based on the characteristics of connected vehicles. Then, by using the Lyapunov–Krasovskill functional analysis method, this paper studies the delay-dependent convergence conditions of the control method. String stability is defined as the nonamplification of the downstream disturbance of a traffic flow when it propagates upstream. The influence of the on-ramps is regarded as a stochastic disturbance in this paper. Through a theoretical analysis, the control conditions that can ensure the string stability of the traffic system under the influence of on-ramp are obtained. Finally, numerical experiments are carried out to compare the traffic states of the traffic system with and without control. The results show that the proposed control can effectively suppress the instability of the traffic system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a cyber‐physical description of mixed traffic that can reflect the interaction between vehicles is first proposed. By treating vehicles as nodes and the cyber‐physical interaction between vehicles as directed edges between nodes, the network of vehicles in traffic is obtained. The small‐world and scale‐free characteristics of mixed traffic are found under this description. Then the CPS‐based pinning approach for achieving indirect control of HVs is proposed. Besides the control algorithm of pinning nodes, the impact of the spatial distribution of automated vehicles on traffic is studied. The approach is compatible with the existing control of automated vehicle in mixed vehicle platoon. Numerical simulation results under three‐lane scenario illustrated the effectiveness of the proposed pinning approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In nature, many mysterious creatures capable of deformation camouflage, color camouflage, and self‐healing have inspired scientists to develop various biomimetic soft robots. However, the systematic integration of all the above functionalities into a single soft actuator system still remains a challenge. Here we chemically introduce a multi‐stimuli‐responsive tetraarylsuccinonitrile (TASN) chromophore into a liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) network through a facile thiol‐ene photoaddition method. The obtained TASN‐LCE soft actuators not only exhibit reversible shape‐morphing and reversible color‐changing behavior in response to heat and mechanical compression, but also show excellent self‐healing, reprogramming and recycling characteristics. We hope that such a TASN‐LCE actuator system endowed with dynamic distortion, thermo‐ and mechano‐chromic camouflage, and self‐healing functionalities would pave the way for further development of multifunctional biomimetic soft robotic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In nature, many mysterious creatures capable of deformation camouflage, color camouflage, and self‐healing have inspired scientists to develop various biomimetic soft robots. However, the systematic integration of all the above functionalities into a single soft actuator system still remains a challenge. Here we chemically introduce a multi‐stimuli‐responsive tetraarylsuccinonitrile (TASN) chromophore into a liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) network through a facile thiol‐ene photoaddition method. The obtained TASN‐LCE soft actuators not only exhibit reversible shape‐morphing and reversible color‐changing behavior in response to heat and mechanical compression, but also show excellent self‐healing, reprogramming and recycling characteristics. We hope that such a TASN‐LCE actuator system endowed with dynamic distortion, thermo‐ and mechano‐chromic camouflage, and self‐healing functionalities would pave the way for further development of multifunctional biomimetic soft robotic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction, MPFL repair, and nonoperative treatment are important treatments for patients with patellar dislocation. However, it is unclear which treatment leads to better outcomes. Purpose: To determine the efficacy and safety of the 3 treatments in the treatment of patellar dislocation and compare the effect of MPFL reconstruction with MPFL repair, MPFL reconstruction with nonoperative treatment, and MPFL repair with nonoperative treatment. Study Design: Systematic review; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: The PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure), and Wanfang databases were searched from inception to December 2020. Included were clinical studies that described the efficacy and safety of 2 of the 3 treatments, studies directly comparing the clinical effects of the 2 operative techniques, or studies comparing the effects of reconstruction or repair with nonoperative treatment. Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed the quality of the included studies with the Cochrane risk-of-bias tools. The outcomes evaluated were postoperative redislocation rate, revision rate, complications, and Kujala score. We used traditional direct pairwise meta-analysis as well as network meta-analysis for comprehensive efficacy of all 3 treatment measures. Results: Twelve studies were included: 5 compared MPFL reconstruction with MPFL repair, 2 compared MPFL reconstruction with nonoperative treatment, and 5 compared MPFL repair with nonoperative treatment. The risk of bias was serious in 4, moderate in 4 and low in 4 articles. MPFL reconstruction led to significantly reduced redislocation and improved Kujala scores compared with MPFL repair and nonoperative treatment. MPFL repair led to reduced redislocation rates compared with nonoperative treatment but did not show an obvious benefit in primary dislocations. There was no significant difference among the 3 treatments in terms of revision rate and incidence of complications, although we found that treatment-related complications were least likely to occur in nonoperative treatment. Conclusion: The results of this review indicate that MPFL reconstruction decreases recurrent dislocation compared with MPFL repair or nonoperative treatment, but it has a higher possibility of complications. MPFL repair resulted in less postoperative redislocation than nonoperative treatment but did not show an obvious benefit in primary dislocation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) is a type of non-coding RNA with length of nucleotides > 200 bp. Increasing evidences show that lncRNA breast cancer antiestrogen resistance 4 (BCAR4) plays an important role in the occurrence and development of various human cancers. It is found that BCAR4 is highly expressed in diverse tumor tissues and cells, and the high expression of BCAR4 is usually associated with poor prognosis. BCAR4 is considered as an oncogene in human cancers. By competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) mechanism and regulating different signaling pathways, BCAR4 participates in the proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), metastasis and tumorigenesis of different cancers. In addition, overexpression of BCAR4 promotes drug resistance of tumor cells. Therefore, BCAR4 is a promising biomarker for cancer diagnosis and prognosis, and it is a potential target for cancer therapy. This paper reviews studies focusing on the relationship between BCAR4 and cancers in recent years and aims to summarize the effect and mechanism of BCAR4 in human cancers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores a method to improve the performance of mixed platoon when the penetration rate of automated vehicles (AVs) is low. The mixed traffic, composing of conventional vehicles and AVs, on the one hand, there is heterogeneity between conventional vehicles and AVs, on the other hand, conventional vehicles also show heterogeneity because of different drivers. Therefore, the cyber-physical relationship between vehicles is more complicated. To this end, we firstly analyze the car-following process of vehicles from the cyber-physical perspective and give the model of mixed traffic system. Then we present the descriptive method of driver heterogeneity of conventional vehicles and give the relevant evaluation indices for evaluating the performance of mixed platoon. Finally, we explore the impact of the spatial distribmution of vehicles on performance of mixed platoon in three cases, and the driver heterogeneity of conventional vehicles is also considered. What's more, in each case, we give three spatial distribution modes and analyze the differences of mixed platoon between the three modes from multiple perspectives. The results show that when the penetration rate of AV is low in the mixed traffic, even considering driver heterogeneity, the performance of the mixed platoon can be improved by arranging regularly the spatial distribution between AVs and conventional vehicles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to realize the oral delivery of SAK-HV protein and improve its oral bioavailability based on chitosan quaternary ammonium salt-PLGA microsphere. The results showed that the SAK-HV-loaded microsphere can overcome the multiple obstacles for oral adsorption and adhere effectively to the jejunal segment of a rat. The pharmacokinetic analysis of the oral drug-loaded microspheres in rats showed that the blood drug concentration of SAK-HV reached the peak value at 4 h after oral administration, and the relative oral bioavailability of SAK-HV was 3.4%. Additionally, after oral administration to the mice, a higher level of antibody against SAK-HV was produced on day 21 compared with that in the control and injection groups, and the antibody titre was 7.2 times that of the tail vein group. This work suggests that the microsphere of the chitosan quaternary ammonium salt-PLGA may be a promising drug delivery system for the oral administration of SAK-HV protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quaternary ammonium densely functionalized octa-benzylmethyl-containing poly(arylene ether ketone)s (QA-OMPAEKs) with ion exchange capacities (IECs) ranging from 1.23 to 2.21 mmol g−1 were synthesized from: (1) Ullmann coupling extension of tetra-benzylmethyl-containing bisphenol A; (2) condensation polymerization with activated dihalide in the presence of K2CO3; (3) selective bromination using N-bromosuccinimide; and (4) quantitative quaternization using trimethylamine. Both smallangle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) characterizations revealed distinct nano-phase separation in QA-OMPAEKs as a result of the dense quaternization. The QA-OMPAEK-20 with an IEC of 1.98 mmol g−1 exhibited a high SO42− conductivity of 11.4 mS cm−1 and a low VO2+ permeability of 0.06×10−12 m2 s−1 at room temperature, leading to a dramatically higher ion selectivity than Nafion N212. Consequently, the vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB) assembled with QA-OMPAEK-20 achieved a Coulombic efficiency of 96.9% and an energy efficiency of 84.8% at a current density of 50 mA cm−2, which were much higher than those of the batteries assembled with Nafion N212 and a home-made control membrane without distinct nano-phase separation. Therefore, ion segregation is demonstrated to be a strategical route for the design of high performance anion exchange membranes (AEMs) for VRFBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral delivery is the most common method of drug administration with high safety and good compliance for patients. However, delivering therapeutic proteins to the target site via oral route involves tremendous challenge due to unfavourable conditions like biochemical barrier, mucus barrier and epithelial barriers. According to the functional differences of various protein drug delivery systems, the recent advances in pH responsive polymer-based drug delivery system, mucoadhesive polymer-based drug delivery system, absorption enhancers-based drug delivery system and composite polymer-based delivery system all were briefly summarised in this review, which not only clarified the clinic potential of these novel drug delivery systems, but also described the way for increasing oral bioavailability of therapeutic protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to investigate the role of miR-149-3p/chromobox 2 (CBX2)/Wnt/β-catenin pathway in the proliferation and metastasis of glioma cells. The expression and clinical significance of miR-149-3p and CBX2 were analyzed using data from public databases. Cell Counting Kit-8 and colony formation assays were performed to measure cell proliferation. Transwell assays were used to assess cell invasion. The results showed that miR-149-3p was downregulated and CBX2 was upregulated in glioma, and that the downregulated expression of miR-149-3p promoted the proliferation and invasion of glioma cells. In addition, downregulated expression of CBX2 suppressed the proliferation and invasion of glioma cells. Dual-luciferase assay indicated that CBX2 is a target gene of miR149-3p. The possible molecular mechanism of CBX2 was probed by western blotting, which showed that it may further affect the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. These present findings demonstrated that miR-149-3p may function as a tumor suppressor miRNA by directly regulating CBX2 and serve important roles in the malignancy of glioma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We analyzed surveillance data for 2 sentinel hospitals to estimate the influenza-associated severe acute respiratory infection hospitalization rate in Beijing, China. The rate was 39 and 37 per 100,000 persons during the 2014-15 and 2015-16 influenza seasons, respectively. Rates were highest for children <5 years of age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keywords: Biomimetic actuator; Camouflage; Chromophore; Liquid crystal elastomer; Self-healing EN Biomimetic actuator Camouflage Chromophore Liquid crystal elastomer Self-healing 1 1 1 02/09/22 20220214 NES 220214 B Weiche Aktoren b In ihrem Forschungsartikel (e202115755) berichten Hong Yang, Quan Li et al. über die thermo- und mechanochrome Tarnung und Selbstheilung in biomimetischen weichen Aktoren basierend auf Flüssigkristallelastomeren. Frontispiz: Thermo- and Mechanochromic Camouflage and Self-Healing in Biomimetic Soft Actuators Based on Liquid Crystal Elastomers Biomimetic actuator, Camouflage, Chromophore, Liquid crystal elastomer, Self-healing. [Extracted from the article]

Frontispiece: Thermo- and Mechanochromic Camouflage and Self-Healing in Biomimetic Soft Actuators Based on Liquid Crystal Elastomers Biomimetic actuator, Camouflage, Chromophore, Liquid crystal elastomer, Self-healing Keywords: Biomimetic actuator; Camouflage; Chromophore; Liquid crystal elastomer; Self-healing EN Biomimetic actuator Camouflage Chromophore Liquid crystal elastomer Self-healing 1 1 1 02/09/22 20220214 NES 220214 B Soft Actuators b In their Research Article (e202115755), Hong Yang, Quan Li et al. report on thermo- and mechanochromic camouflage and self-healing in biomimetic soft actuators based on liquid crystal elastomers. [Extracted from the article]