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The immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) remains a major obstacle to tumor control and causes suboptimal responses to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy. Thus, developing feasible therapeutic strategies that trigger inflammatory responses in the TME could improve the ICB efficacy. Mitochondria play an essential role in inflammation regulation and tumor immunogenicity induction. Herein, we report the discovery and characterization of a class of small molecules that can recapitulate aqueous self-assembly behavior, specifically target cellular organelles (e.g., mitochondria), and invigorate tumor cell immunogenicity. Mechanistically, this nanoassembly platform dynamically rewires mitochondria, induces endoplasmic reticulum stress, and causes apoptosis/paraptosis-associated immunogenic cell death. After treatment, stressed and dying tumor cells can act as prophylactic or therapeutic cancer vaccines. In preclinical mouse models of cancers with intrinsic or acquired resistance to PD-1 blockade, the local administration of nanoassemblies inflames the immunologically silent TME and synergizes with ICB therapy, generating potent antitumor immunity. This chemically programmed small-molecule immune enhancer acts distinctly from regular cytotoxic therapeutics and offers a promising strategy for synchronous and dynamic tailoring of innate immunity to achieve traceless cancer therapy and overcome immunosuppression in cancers. Mitochondria disruption can elicit immune responses. Here the authors report the design and characterization of mitochondria targeting drug-free nanoassemblies promoting immunogenic cell death and anti-tumor immune responses in preclinical models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: An up-to-date overview of epidemiology, etiology and pathophysiological mechanisms, diagnostic and evaluation methods, current treatment status and future directions of subjective tinnitus in adults. Methods: Review of current evidence-based literature on subjective tinnitus in adults. Results: The prevalence of subjective tinnitus in the adult population is estimated to be around 14%, and it tends to increase with age. Subjective tinnitus is a complex condition with multiple factors contributing to its origin. However, the exact causes and underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Potential causes may include hearing loss, dysfunction in the somatosensory system, and auditory cortical dysfunction, although severe underlying pathology is rare. Currently, diagnosis primarily relies on patient self-reported medical history and physician-based clinical assessment due to the lack of objective testing. Various treatment and management options have been proposed, but their effectiveness varies, and there is no universally agreed-upon treatment option. Conclusions: Tinnitus is a complex and heterogeneous disease with a high incidence rate and a tendency to increase with age. A holistic perspective is needed to understand the generation, perception, and emotional responses to tinnitus. Diagnosis requires a comprehensive assessment based on medical history and relevant examinations, identification of concurrent psychosomatic comorbidities, and active pursuit of objective diagnostic methods. At the same time, on the basis of existing treatment plans and combining emerging technologies, we will develop new personalized, precise, and combined treatment plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Radioresistance is an inevitable obstacle in the clinical treatment of inoperable patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Combining treatment with radiosensitizers may improve the efficacy of radiotherapy. Previously, the quinoline derivative 10E as new exporter of Nur77 has shown superior antitumor activity in hepatocellular carcinoma. Here, we aimed to investigate the radiosensitizing activity and acting mechanisms of 10E. In vitro, A549 and H460 cells were treated with control, ionizing radiation (IR), 10E, and 10E + IR. Cell viability, apoptosis, and cycle were examined using CCK-8 and flow cytometry assays. Protein expression and localization were examined using western blotting and immunofluorescence. Tumor xenograft models were established to evaluate the radiosensitizing effect of 10E in vivo. 10E significantly inhibited cell proliferation and increased their radiosensitivity while reducing level of p-BCRA1, p-DNA-PKs, and 53BP1 involved in the DNA damage repair pathway, indicating that its radiosensitizing activity is closely associated with repressing DNA damage repair. A549 cells showed low level of Nur77 and a low response to IR but 10E-treated A549 cells showed high level of Nur77 indicating that Nur77 is a core radiosensitivity factor and 10E restores the expression of Nur77. Nur77 and Ku80 extranuclear co-localization in the 10E-treated A549 cells suggested that 10E-modulated Nur77 nuclear exportation inhibits DNA damage repair pathways and increases IR-triggered apoptosis. The combination of 10E and IR significantly inhibits tumor growth in a tumor xenograft model. Our findings suggest that 10E acts as a radiosensitizer and that combining 10E with radiotherapy may be a potential strategy for NSCLC treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advertising is methods to encourage donations, and text is one of the most crucial fundamental elements in advertising. Therefore, we chose advertising slogans as the focus of this study. The main goal of this research is to investigate how the emotional and concrete aspects of advertising slogans can impact information processing procedures and neural mechanisms, ultimately influencing advertising effectiveness. We conducted a two-factor experiment with a 2 × 2 design, using the ERPs experimental paradigm. The results reveal that slogans with an emotionally positive appeal outperformed in terms of advertising memory (recognition response time) and audience intention (liking, acting, and sharing). Emotional-negative advertising slogans performed better in eliciting early attention (P1). Concrete advertising slogans excelled in enhancing advertising memory (recognition response time, correct recognition rate), as well as in the later stages of information processing stage (N400 and LPC). Furthermore, abstract advertising slogans performed better in capturing early attention (P2) and influencing action intention. We introduce a framework comprising five distinct phases for individuals to process the advertising slogans and emphasize the foundational role of emotions in individual cognition and the processing of advertising. These findings uncover the underlying mechanism behind the effectiveness of donation advertising and provide valuable insights for the design of philanthropic advertising practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel approach is proposed leveraging surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) combined with machine learning (ML) techniques, principal component analysis (PCA)-centroid displacement–based nearest neighbor (CDNN). This label-free approach can identify slight abnormalities between SERS spectra of gastric lesions at different stages, offering a promising avenue for detection and prevention of precancerous lesion of gastric cancer (PLGC). The agaric-shaped nanoarray substrate was prepared using gas–liquid interface self-assembly and reactive ion etching (RIE) technology to measure SERS spectra of serum from mice model with gastric lesions at different stages, and then a SERS spectral recognition model was trained and constructed using the PCA-CDNN algorithm. The results showed that the agaric-shaped nanoarray substrate has good uniformity, stability, cleanliness, and SERS enhancement effect. The trained PCA-CDNN model not only found the most important features of PLGC, but also achieved satisfactory classification results with accuracy, area under curve (AUC), sensitivity, and specificity up to 100%. This demonstrated the enormous potential of this analysis platform in the diagnosis of PLGC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molecular ferroelectrics are attracting great interest due to their light weight, mechanical flexibility, low cost, ease of processing and environmental friendliness. These advantages make molecular ferroelectrics viable alternatives or supplements to inorganic ceramics and polymer ferroelectrics. It is expected that molecular ferroelectrics with good performance can be fabricated, which in turns calls for effective chemical design strategies in crystal engineering. To achieve so, we propose a hydrogen bond modification method by introducing the hydroxyl group, and successfully boost the phase transition temperature (Tc) by at least 336 K. As a result, the molecular ferroelectric 1-hydroxy-3-adamantanammonium tetrafluoroborate [(HaaOH)BF4] can maintain ferroelectricity until 528 K, a Tc value much larger than that of BTO (390 K). Meanwhile, micro-domain patterns, in stable state for 2 years, can be directly written on the film of (HaaOH)BF4. In this respect, hydrogen bond modification is a feasible and effective strategy for designing molecular ferroelectrics with high Tc and stable ferroelectric domains. Such an organic molecule with varied modification sites and the precise crystal engineering can provide an efficient route to enrich high-Tc ferroelectrics with various physical properties.The authors propose a hydrogen bond modification method to achieve introduction of polarization and enhancement of phase transition temperature in molecular ferroelectrics, exploring the piezoelectric prototype devices of the molecular ferroelectric. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effective flow of electrons through bulk electrodes is crucial for achieving high-performance batteries, although the poor conductivity of homocyclic sulfur molecules results in high barriers against the passage of electrons through electrode structures. This phenomenon causes incomplete reactions and the formation of metastable products. To enhance the performance of the electrode, it is important to place substitutable electrification units to accelerate the cleavage of sulfur molecules and increase the selectivity of stable products during charging and discharging. Herein, we develop a single-atom-charging strategy to address the electron transport issues in bulk sulfur electrodes. The establishment of the synergistic interaction between the adsorption model and electronic transfer helps us achieve a high level of selectivity towards the desirable short-chain sodium polysulfides during the practical battery test. These finding indicates that the atomic manganese sites have an enhanced ability to capture and donate electrons. Additionally, the charge transfer process facilitates the rearrangement of sodium ions, thereby accelerating the kinetics of the sodium ions through the electrostatic force. These combined effects improve pathway selectivity and conversion to stable products during the redox process, leading to superior electrochemical performance for room temperature sodium-sulfur batteries. Efficient charge transfer in sulfur electrodes is a crucial challenge for sodium-sulfur batteries. Here, the authors developed a machine-learning-assisted approach to quickly identify effective single-atom catalysts that enhance selectivity for short-chain sodium polysulfides, leading to improved battery performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: XIAP-associated factor 1 (XAF1) has been found to participate in the progression of multiple human cancers. Nevertheless, its role as well as the reaction mechanism in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) still remains obscure. Methods: In this study, the protein expression of XAF1 in NSCLC cell lines was evaluated using western blot. With the employment of CCK-8 assay, EdU staining, wound healing and transwell, capabilities of NSCLC cells to proliferate, migrate and invade were assessed. Cell apoptotic level and cell cycle were resolved utilizing flow cytometry. Western blot was applied for the estimation of apoptosis- and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-related proteins. Results: It was discovered that XAF1 expression was conspicuously reduced in NSCLC cell lines. XAF1 overexpression suppressed H1299 cell proliferative, invasive and migrative capabilities, but exhibited promotive effects on cell cycle arrest. Meanwhile, XAF1 overexpression inhibited cisplatin resistance in H1299 and H1299/DDP cells by promoting cell apoptosis and enhanced the expression levels of ER stress-related proteins CHOP, GRP78 and ATF4. What's more, 4-PBA treatment reversed the impacts of XAF1 overexpression on the proliferative, invasive, migrative and apoptotic capabilities of H1299 cells, as well as cell cycle and cisplatin resistance. Conclusion: In conclusion, XAF1 overexpression impeded the advancement of NSCLC and repressed cisplatin resistance of NSCLC cells through inducing ER stress, which indicated that XAF1 might be a novel targeted-therapy for NSCLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When developing new mobile applications, it is critical to accurately understand the needs of the target users at the early stage, so that the designed products can better match user preferences and improve user experience. Using the powerful method of conjoint analysis and Hierarchical Bayes (HB) statistical estimation, this exploratory study sought to better model individual user needs and desired functions for a mobile English learning application, in comparison with traditional user research approaches. Participants in a Web-based conjoint experiment evaluated a series of hypothetical mobile applications for English learning, in which learning contents, duration of learning time, and frequency of study per week were found to have the biggest impacts on their choices. Based on HB models that better captured individual differences among users and therefore quantified the importance of each design attribute more accurately, an optimized mobile application was designed, which was predicted to maximize the share of preference among target consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Prior research has shown that individual lifestyles were associated with migraine. Yet, few studies focused on combined lifestyles, particularly in Chinese populations. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the relationships of a combined lifestyle index with migraine in Hong Kong Chinese women. Methods: Baseline data from a cohort study named Migraine Exposures and Cardiovascular Health in Hong Kong Chinese Women (MECH-HK) were used for analysis. In total 3510 women aged 55.2 ± 9.1 years were included. The combined lifestyle index comprised eight lifestyle factors: smoking, physical activity, sleep, stress, fatigue, diet, body mass index, and alcohol. Each component was attributed a point of 0 (unhealthy) or 1 (healthy). The overall index was the sum of these points, ranging from 0 (the least healthy) to 8 points (the healthiest). Migraine was diagnosed by the International Classification of Headache Disorders 3rd edition. Additionally, for women with migraine, the data on migraine attack frequency (attacks/month) was collected. Results: A total of 357 women with migraine (10.2%) were identified. The prevalence of migraine for the 0–3-point, 4-point, 5-point, 6-point, and 7–8-point groups were 18.0% (162/899), 10.9% (86/788), 6.6% (51/776), 6.0% (38/636), and 4.9% (20/411), respectively. In the most-adjusted model, compared to the 0–3-point group, the odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for the 4-point, 5-point, 6-point, and 7–8-point groups were 0.57 (0.43–0.75), 0.33 (0.24–0.46), 0.30 (0.21–0.44), and 0.25 (0.15–0.41), respectively (all p < 0.001). For each component, migraine was significantly associated with sleep, stress, fatigue, and diet; but was unrelated to smoking, physical activity, body mass index, and alcohol. Among women with migraine, per point increase in the combined lifestyle index was associated with a reduced migraine attack frequency (β = − 0.55; 95% confidence interval = − 0.82, − 0.28; p < 0.001). Conclusions: A combined lifestyle index was inversely associated with migraine and migraine attack frequency in Hong Kong Chinese women. Adhering to a healthy lifestyle pattern might be beneficial to the prevention of migraine attacks. Conversely, it is also plausible that women with migraine might have a less healthy lifestyle pattern compared to those without headaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In practice, time series data obtained is usually small and missing, which poses a great challenge to data analysis in different domains, such as increasing the bias of model predictions, reducing the accuracy of model classification, and affecting the analysis data. This paper aims to address the problem of missing data imputation and classification of small sample time series data. By exploring and implementing efficient data interpolation strategies to improve classification accuracy, the robustness and accuracy of classification models in the face of incomplete data. To achieve this, we propose a new model that can effectively classify time series data with missing values. Our model utilizes a bi-directional long short-term memory network combined with an extreme learning machine for the imputation task, which can recover the missing time series values. For the classification task, we employ a self-attentional Inception Time network, which is regularized by a classification loss to effectively mitigate network overfitting. To improve the performance of the model on small sample time series datasets, we use a gradient penalty adversarial training approach. Our model integrates the advantages of multiple network modules, the gradient penalty adversarial multi-task model achieves optimal imputation and robust classification of missing small sample time series data. To evaluate the overall performance of our model, we selected forty datasets from the UCR time series datasets, and selected the German emotional speech datasets and the EEG epilepsy datasets, with the plant electrical signal datasets obtained from real measurements. A series of experiments were conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of our method compared to other methods, the datasets were set up with multiple missing rates, with root mean square error and coefficient of determination to assess the accuracy of imputation, and with accuracy to assess the performance of the classification task. The results show that our proposed method outperforms existing methods in terms of imputation accuracy and classification performance. To better understand the deep learning model, we used the Grad-CAM + + method to enhance the reliability and credibility of the model by visualizing the important features of the temporal data when the plant electrical signal datasets was tested. In summary, this paper presents a model framework for the imputation and classification of missing small sample time series data, and the experimental results show that our model provides an effective solution for dealing with the analysis of missing small sample time series data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study proposes the use of diatomaceous earth (DE) as a surface-treating agent for recycled aggregate (RA) to enhance the performance of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC). The treatment process involves pre-saturating the RA and applying a coating using a slurry composed of calcined DE and ordinary Portland cement at specific proportions. Test results demonstrate that the compressive and splitting tensile strengths of RAC can be significantly improved, with increases of up to 20.0% and 36.0% respectively. Additionally, the 28-day chloride diffusion coefficient of RAC can be reduced by up to 32.0% by adjusting the proportion of DE in the slurry. These improvements are not influenced by changes in the quality of the RA, but rather by the enhanced interfacial transition zone (ITZ) in RAC. Microscopic measurements of the ITZ reveal a layered structure resulting from the surface treatment, characterized by lower porosity and higher microhardness compared to the reference RAC. This enhanced ITZ is primarily responsible for the improved macro-scale performance of RAC. The findings of this study confirm the feasibility of using DE as a surface-treating agent for RA to produce RAC with enhanced strength and durability. Furthermore, it suggests the promising use of DE in the construction industry, avoiding the drawbacks associated with using high-dosage DE that can impact concrete consistency and water demand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research undertakes a comprehensive evaluation and amalgamation of patient experiences and requirements during the perioperative period of robot-assisted surgery (RS), with the goal of enriching clinical practice with patient-centered insights. A meta-synthesis was performed and reported according to the preferred reporting Items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses and the enhancing transparency in reporting the synthesis of qualitative research statement. A rigorous literature search was conducted across multiple Chinese and English databases, namely PubMed, CINAHL (EBSCO), Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, China Biomedical Literature Database (CBLD), China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Data, and VIP Information. This study incorporated ten qualitative studies, the outcomes were classified into three overarching themes: personalized patient requirements related to RS; the psychological and physiological experiences of patients; and the divergent perceptions of male and female patients regarding RS. Greater emphasis needs to be placed on patient comprehension of RS, augmenting focus on patient psychological experiences, recognizing unique patient needs at various stages of RS, and providing patients with specialized knowledge and technical support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study was conducted to investigate the relationship between cesarean section (CS) offspring and autism spectrum disorders (ASD)/attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Methods: Searching of the databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library) for studies on the relationship between mode of delivery and ASD/ADHD until August 2022. The primary outcome was the incidence of ASD/ADHD in the offspring. Results: This meta-analysis included 35 studies (12 cohort studies and 23 case–control studies). Statistical results showed a higher risk of ASD (odds ratio (OR) = 1.25, P < 0.001) and ADHD (OR = 1.11, P < 0.001) in CS offspring compared to the VD group. Partial subgroup analysis showed no difference in ASD risk between CS and VD offspring in sibling-matched groups (OR = 0.98, P = 0.625). The risk of ASD was higher in females (OR = 1.66, P = 0.003) than in males (OR = 1.17, P = 0.004) in the CS offspring compared with the VD group. There was no difference in the risk of ASD between CS under regional anesthesia group and VD group (OR = 1.07, P = 0.173). However, the risk of ASD was higher in the CS offspring under general anesthesia than in the VD offspring (OR = 1.62, P < 0.001). CS offspring developed autism (OR = 1.38, P = 0.011) and pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (OR = 1.46, P = 0.004) had a higher risk than VD offspring, but there was no difference in Asperger syndrome (OR = 1.19, P = 0.115). Offspring born via CS had a higher incidence of ADHD in different subgroup analyses (sibling-matched, type of CS, and study design). Conclusions: In this meta-analysis, CS was a risk factor for ASD/ADHD in offspring compared with VD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We elucidate here the influence of the rolling process on the microstructure and tensile properties of Mg-1Ca-0.5Mn-0.53Ce alloy. Intriguingly, the alloy subjected to 5-pass low-temperature rolling exhibited an excellent strength-ductility balance (ultimate tensile strength (UTS) = 261.4 MPa and elongation (EL) = 20%), which was far better than the one subjected to 4-pass low-temperature rolling (UTS = 218.3 MPa and EL = 4.3%). The coarse Mg2Ca particles in the 4-pass sample led to the local stress concentration, with consequent initiation of micro-cracks at the early deformation stage. In contrast, the microstructure of the 5-pass sample characterized by homogeneous ultra-fine grain, double peak texture, and refined precipitates contributed to the superior tensile properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identifying circulating proteins associated with cognitive function may point to biomarkers and molecular process of cognitive impairment. Few studies have investigated the association between circulating proteins and cognitive function. We identify 246 protein measures quantified by the SomaScan assay as associated with cognitive function (p < 4.9E-5, n up to 7289). Of these, 45 were replicated using SomaScan data, and three were replicated using Olink data at Bonferroni-corrected significance. Enrichment analysis linked the proteins associated with general cognitive function to cell signaling pathways and synapse architecture. Mendelian randomization analysis implicated higher levels of NECTIN2, a protein mediating viral entry into neuronal cells, with higher Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk (p = 2.5E-26). Levels of 14 other protein measures were implicated as consequences of AD susceptibility (p < 2.0E-4). Proteins implicated as causes or consequences of AD susceptibility may provide new insight into the potential relationship between immunity and AD susceptibility as well as potential therapeutic targets. Analysis of circulating proteins across multiple cohorts identifies proteins that are associated with cognitive function and may serve as targets to understand the relationship between immunity and Alzheimer's disease risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 1 (CXCL1) is mainly expressed on neutrophils and macrophages and has neutrophil chemoattractant activity. However, natural killer (NK) cells also express CXCL1. We were curious about the role played by CXCL1 in NK cells. Knocking out CXCL1 in hematopoietic cells does not affect the occurrence of NK cells; however, it does hinder NK cell maturity. CXCL1 deletion enhances the expression of immature markers and decreases the expression of functional markers in NK cells, which may explain why it hinders the maturation of NK cells. Specific knockout of CXCL1 in NK cells (CXCL1flox/flox Ncr1-cre) leads to impaired IFN-γ production and degranulation of NK cells. The lack of CXCL1 may prevent IFN-γ production and degranulation of NK cells by inhibiting the phosphorylation of AKTS473 and S6. Therefore, we have discovered a new role for CXCL1 in regulating NK cell development and immune surveillance, providing a novel theoretical basis for immunotherapy based on NK cells and potential therapeutic targets for the clinical use of NK cells. 1. Knockout of CXCL1 in hematopoietic cells inhibits the maturation of NK cells. 2. Knockout of CXCL1 in NK cells inhibits the clearance of lymphoma by NK cells and reduces IFN-γ production and CD107 expression in NK cells. 3. CXCL1 activates the PKD2/mTOR signaling pathway, and promotes the production of IFN-γ and the expression of CD107a in NK cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Previous studies have shown that TBX21 (T-Box Transcription Factor 21) plays a vital role in coordinating multiple aspects of the immune response especially type 1 immune response as well as tumor progression. However, the function of TBX21 in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains unclear. Methods: IHC to investigate TBX21 expression in CRC tissues. Cell proliferation and apoptosis assays to validate TBX21 function in vitro and in vivo. RNA-seq assay to explore target genes of TBX21. Human phospho-kinase array assay to explore down-stream signaling of TBX21. Results: We disclosed that the expression of TBX21 was marked decreased in CRC versus normal tissue, and negatively correlated with CRC TNM stages. Surprisingly, we found that the CRC and normal cell lines show no TBX21 expression levels. Ectopic expression of TBX21 inhibited cell proliferation and promoted cell apoptosis in vitro. Moreover, RNA-sequence data first time showed that ARHGAP29 acts as the target gene of TBX21 to mediate down-stream signaling activation. Human phospho-kinase array data first time displayed that ectopic expression of TBX21 reduced kinase RSK and GSK3β activation. In contrast, knocked down the expression of TBX21 or ARHGAP29 alternatively abolished TBX21 mediated cell proliferation suppression, cell apoptosis enhancement and RSK/GSK3β activation. In addition, xenograft model studies demonstrated that TBX21 inhibits colorectal tumor progression via ARHGAP29/ RSK/ GSK3β signaling in vivo. Conclusions: In summary, the aforementioned findings suggest a model of TBX21 in suppressing CRC progression. This may provide a promising target for CRC therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The twisted stacking of two layered crystals has led to the emerging moiré physics as well as intriguing chiral phenomena such as chiral phonon and photon generation. In this work, we identified and theoretically formulated a non-trivial twist-enabled coupling mechanism in twisted bilayer photonic crystal (TBPC), which connects the bound state in the continuum (BIC) mode to the free space through the twist-enabled channel. Moreover, the radiation from TBPC hosts an optical vortex in the far field with both odd and even topological orders. We quantitatively analyzed the twist-enabled coupling between the BIC mode and other non-local modes in the photonic crystals, giving rise to radiation carrying orbital angular momentum. The optical vortex generation is robust against geometric disturbance, making TBPC a promising platform for well-defined vortex generation. As a result, TBPCs not only provide a new approach to manipulating the angular momentum of photons, but may also enable novel applications in integrated optical information processing and optical tweezers. Our work broadens the field of moiré photonics and paves the way toward the novel application of moiré physics. The Authors in this work predict the radiation of twisted bilayer photonic crystals to host an optical vortex in the far field, which is enabled by connecting BIC modes in photonic crystals with the free space through a 'moiré channel'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermocatalytic conversion of redundant CO2 to useful methanol is an attractive route to address both energy and environmental crises simultaneously. However, existing copper/oxide catalysts widely used in these thermocatalytic processes still suffer from low methanol yield under mild reaction conditions. In this work, we design inverse oxide/Cu catalysts to achieve superior thermal catalytic performance for CO2 hydrogenation. The optimized ZnO/Cu-1.0 catalyst exhibits maximum CH3OH selectivity of 83.4% and space–time yield (STY) of 170.9 g CH 3 OH kg cat - 1 h - 1 in CO2 hydrogenation at 210 °C, nearly twofold higher STY than the previous optimal inverse ZnO/Cu catalysts ( 89.6 g CH 3 OH kg cat - 1 h - 1 at 250 °C). Importantly, ZnO/Cu-1.0 catalyst displayed not only a satisfactory catalytic stability but also a superior CH3OH STY with a time-on-stream of 24 h. Such inverse configuration of catalysts will pave the way for new strategies to design high-performance thermocatalytic catalysts and promote their commercialization. Typical inverse ZnO/Cu-1.0 catalysts have been demonstrated and achieved to significantly facilitate the activation of inert CO2 molecules to produce methanol, due to its special physicochemical properties and strong ZnO–Cu interaction [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Control and understanding of ensembles of skyrmions is important for realization of future technologies. In particular, the order-disorder transition associated with the 2D lattice of magnetic skyrmions can have significant implications for transport and other dynamic functionalities. To date, skyrmion ensembles have been primarily studied in bulk crystals, or as isolated skyrmions in thin film devices. Here, we investigate the condensation of the skyrmion phase at room temperature and zero field in a polar, van der Waals magnet. We demonstrate that we can engineer an ordered skyrmion crystal through structural confinement on the μm scale, showing control over this order-disorder transition on scales relevant for device applications. Kosterlitz–Thouless–Halperin–Nelson–Young (KTHNY) theory describes the melting of an ordered two-dimensional phase to a disordered phase, via a quasi-ordered 'hexatic' phase. Magnetic skyrmions, as a phase of two-dimensional quasi-particles may be expected to exhibit a KTHNY melting process, however, observing such a phase transition is difficult. Herein, Meisenheimer et al study the formation of magnetic skyrmions in (Fe0.5Co0.5)5GeTe2, and, via physical confinement at device scale, succeed in obtaining an ordered skrymion phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lanthanide ion-doped fluorescent materials have always been a hot topic in the field of electronic materials. Eu3+ ion-doped gadolinium borosilicate glass was prepared by high temperature melting method. The luminescence properties of Eu3+ codoped gadolinium borosilicate glass were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform near infrared spectroscopy, excitation spectrum, emission spectrum, fluorescence lifetime and chromaticity analysis. XRD results show that the sample has typical non-crystalline. The fluorescence lifetime of the sample changes regularly with the concentration of Eu3+ ions. The results show that the luminescence intensity increases with the increase of Eu3+ ion concentration, which proves that the change of Eu3+ ion concentration has a great regulation effect on the luminescence properties of gadolinium borosilicate glass. The structural reason of this phenomenon is analyzed by Fourier transform near infrared spectroscopy. The luminescence properties of glass can be improved by regulating Eu3+ ion concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using PEDOT as the conductive polymer, an innovative small-scale sensor for directly measuring salicylate ions in plants was developed, which avoided the complicated sample pretreatment of traditional analytical methods and realized the rapid detection of salicylic acid. The results demonstrate that this all-solid-state potentiometric salicylic acid sensor is easy to miniaturize, has a longer lifetime (≥1 month), is more robust, and can be directly used for the detection of salicylate ions in real samples without any additional pretreatment. The developed sensor has a good Nernst slope (63.6 ± 0.7 mV/decade), the linear range is 10−2 ~ 10−6 M, and the detection limit can reach (2.8 × 10−7 M). The selectivity, reproducibility, and stability of the sensor were evaluated. The sensor can perform stable, sensitive, and accurate in situ measurement of salicylic acid in plants, and it is an excellent tool for determining salicylic acid ions in plants in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interplay between pesticides plays a critical role in ecotoxicology since these chemicals rarely emerge as single substances but rather in mixtures with other chemicals. In the present work, we purposed to clarify the combined toxic impacts of pyraclostrobine (PYR) and metiram (MET) on the zebrafish by using numerous indicators. Results exhibited that the 4-day LC50 value of MET to fish embryos was 0.0025 mg a.i. L−1, which was lower compared with PYR (0.019 mg a.i. L−1). Combinations of PYR and MET presented a synergetic impact on fish embryos. Contents of POD, CYP450, and VTG were drastically increased in the plurality of the single and joint treatments relative to the baseline value. Three genes, including vtg1, crh, and il-8, related to the endocrine and immune systems, were also surprisingly up-regulated when fish were challenged by the individual and mixture pesticides compared with the baseline value. These results afforded valuable information on the latent toxicity mechanisms of co-exposure for PYR and MET in the early growth stage of fish. Moreover, our data also revealed that frequent application of these two pesticides might exert a potentially ecotoxicological hazard on aquatic ecosystems. Collectively, the present study provided valuable guidance for the risk evaluation of chemical combinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The objective was to determine factors associated with a successful outcome at a minimum of two years after revision of a failed shoulder arthroplasty. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of revision shoulder arthroplasties performed over a ten year period and collected patient-reported outcome data and re-revision data. A successful outcome was defined by improvement greater than the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for the Simple Shoulder Test (SST). Results: One hundred twelve patients with average follow-up of five years were included. Improvement of VAS pain scores (6.6 ± 2.3 to 2.9 ± 2.6) and SST scores (2.7 ± 2.6 to 6.6 ± 3.3) were significant (p < 0.001). Males were more likely to have a successful outcome than females (p = 0.01). Conclusion: Two-thirds of patients experienced clinically significant improvement at a minimum of two years after revision shoulder arthroplasty. Male sex was the strongest independent predictor of a successful outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The contamination of cadmium (Cd) in agro-products causes major concern because of its potential dietary risks. In this study, a total of 647 pepper samples from 21 provinces in China were randomly collected according to the distribution of pepper production. Cd pollution levels in Chinses pepper and its health risks were evaluated based on bioaccessibility, which was measured by the physiologically based extraction test (PBET). The results showed that Cd concentration in all pepper ranged from 0.002 to 1.470 mg/kg, with an average of 0.222 mg/kg and a median of 0.132 mg/kg. The highest daily intake of Cd was observed in the female child group (4.037 × 10−5 mg/kg bw/day), which accounted for 4% of the maximum daily permissible dose – 0.001 mg/kg bw/day. The target hazard quotients of Cd were all lower than 1, indicating low potential non-carcinogenic health risks to residents via the consumption of pepper. Notably, carcinogenic risk values suggested potential adverse health effects to adults, while after considering the bioaccessibility of Cd in pepper (mean of 43.07%), those values had fallen under the acceptable level (1 × 10−4). This may indicate that dietary risk assessment of heavy metals in crops could not be conducted just based on their content; the bioaccessibility of metals is also an important factor for consideration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In industrial, biological, medical and many more scenarios, single-channel blind source separation still remains challenges. A smart universal single-channel blind source separation method, the iterative heuristic general hybrid model with evaluation parameters feedback, Loop-BAS-VMD-ICA, is proposed and verified to recover the original sources automatically in multiple scenarios. Combined with beetle antennae search algorithm based variational mode decomposition and independent component analysis, by designing a new fitness function armed with processing effects of variational mode decomposition components and the final candidate source signals in each step of beetle antennae search algorithm, this model allows us to reconstruct a new optimized vector combining the selected components of variational mode decomposition with the original observation signal through a new scheme by loop mode with evaluation parameters feedback, and then the new vector is used to separate and extract independent source signals by iterative and heuristic calculation. Experimental results show that our method is not only smart, good versatile but also outperforms the state-of-the-art traditional time–frequency-based methods in extraction accuracy and waveform integrity. Compared with the state-of-the-art deep learning based methods, our method also demonstrates its unique advantages. It provides a better and more extensive means for the analysis and application of multicomponent signals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Visual modeling of surface structure geometric features of mechanical parts based on boundary data mining and wireless computing is essentially discussed in this manuscript. This paper establishes a method for reducing the degree of the uncertainty of the rough set boundary elements with the integration of the communication models. The method selects the appropriate coverage formation rule from the minimum coverage generated by the attribute reduction according to the statistical rule of the boundary element. In our model, the novelty can be listed as follows. (1) The cluster boundary can be obtained by detecting data objects with such features in the data set. (2) The multi-scale information of the surface of the part is optimized and input into the CAD system to obtain the multi-scale shape information, including the surface point cloud type, mesh model, surface model and solid model information of the parts at each scale, and the information is also transmitted to each other. The results of the simulation can prove the core effectiveness of the methodology. We simulate the proposed model under different scenarios and the comparison analysis has proven the efficiency and the robustness of the model. It is proven that the modelling efficiency has been 21.2% percent higher than the traditional model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the emerging development of the automatic systems and the cloud platforms, the proper combination is the developing trend. Hence, design and innovation of automatic mechanical equipment based on the D–T fuzzy control system considering Internet of Things is demonstrated in this paper. In the process of R&D and manufacturing of modern automated machinery and equipment, we must also pay attention to the improvement of the overall quality of operators. Through incentive measures, the initiative and enthusiasm of the work are continuously improved, and finally the sustainable development of the machinery manufacturing industry is promoted. This paper gives the novel perspectives of enhancing basic model. We integrate the D–T fuzzy model to replace the kernel support vector machines to serve as the general flowchart for the model, the cloud system is implemented with the Internet of Things to serve as the support of the hardware. We compare the proposed model with the other platforms, the experimental results have shown that the designed system is robust and efficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Robotic splicing of steel arches is a challenging task that is necessary to realize the grasping and docking of steel arches in a limited space. Steel arches often have a mass of more than 200 kg and length of more than 4 m. Owing to the large volume and mass of steel arches and the high requirements for accurately positioning the splicing, it is difficult for a general manipulator to meet the stiffness requirements. To enhance the structural stiffness of the steel arch splicing manipulator, a single-degree-of-freedom (DOF) closed-loop mechanism was added to the grasping structure of the manipulator. Based on the basic principle of structural synthesis, a solution model of the single-DOF closed-loop mechanism was developed, and alternative kinematic pairs of the mechanism with different input constraints and output requirements were derived. Based on this model, a design method for a single-DOF closed-loop grasping mechanism and a posture adjustment mechanism for a steel arch was devised. Combined with the same dimensional subspace equivalence principle of the graphical-type synthesis method, 12 types of steel arch splicing manipulator were constructed. By analyzing the motion/force transmission and structural complexity of the steel arch splicing manipulators, the best scheme was selected. A prototype of the steel arch splicing manipulator was manufactured. Adams software was used to obtain clearly the output trajectory of the end of the manipulator. The relative spatial positions of the upper and lower jaws under different working stages were analyzed, demonstrating that the manipulator satisfied the grasping requirements. Through a steel arch splicing experiment, the grasping effect, docking accuracy, and splicing efficiency of the manipulator met the design requirements. The steel arch splicing manipulator can replace the manual completion of the steel arch splicing operation, significantly improving the operation efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Flexible aerospace structures present dynamic characteristics of low natural frequency. For a long-term free-floating spacecraft, theses flexible aerospace structures are prone to vibrate due to various excitation. However, it is extremely difficult to eliminate these low-frequency vibrations. Purpose: The main aim of this paper is to verify the damping performance of a novel ferrofluid inertial damper with the optimal stiffness in reducing the low-frequency free vibration of structures. Methods: The ferrofluid inertial damper consists of an inertial mass block, ferrofluids, and two magnetic field sources. The inertial mass block is levitated in two layers of ferrofluid absorbed on magnetic field sources. When the main system vibrates, the ferrofluid can generate a very small restoring force and damping force between the inertial mass block and the main system. A series of simulations and experiments are used to optimize the restoring force. Furthermore, the influence of the ferrofluid mass on the restoring force is studied. The damping performance is verified by the free oscillation of a flexible copper plate. Results: Two sets of geometric parameters whose restoring forces meet the requirement of the optimal stiffness are obtained. Compared to the copper plate damped by itself, the oscillation time of the copper plate with the ferrofluid inertial damper can be reduced by 97.73%. Conclusion: The inertial mass block has a fast response to external vibrations. The ferrofluid inertial damper has very excellent performance for damping the free oscillations of a copper plate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three mesoporous silica materials (MCM-41, MSN and BMMs) possessing different morphologies but similar hexagonal arranged mesopores with almost the same pore size (2–3 nm) were functionalized by Zn and [1-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl-3-methylimidazolium] ionic liquid (ILs) via post-grafting treatment. The ILs grafted mesoporous silicas were then characterized by porosity, microscopy and SAXS techniques, and the successful loading of Zn and ILs, as well as the different distribution of functional groups in different supports were shown. Furthermore, the cycloaddition reaction of CO2 with epoxide was employed to evaluate the influences of the ILs distribution, which was proved to be caused mainly by varying morphologies of different supports. All the catalysts showed good catalytic activities. Interestingly, at low temperature, the inter particle supported ILs in BMMs had the highest catalytic efficiency, while the aggregation grafting ILs on MCM-41 present the lowest activity. However, the mesoporous silicas with ordered arranged nanopores present the superiority at higher temperature. The results highlight the crucial role played by the morphology of the supports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reduction process is a key step to fabricate metal-zeolite catalysts in catalytic synthesis. However, because of the strong interaction force, metal oxides in zeolites are very difficult to be reduced. Existing reduction technologies are always energy-intensive, and inevitably cause the agglomeration of metallic particles in metal-zeolite catalysts or destroy zeolite structure in severe cases. Herein, we disclose that zeolites after ion exchange of ammonium have an interesting and unexpected self-reducing feature. It can accurately control the reduction of metal-zeolite catalysts, via in situ ammonia production from 'ammonia pools', meanwhile, restrains the growth of the size of metals. Such new and reliable ammonia pool effect is not influenced by topological structures of zeolites, and works well on reducible metals. The ammonia pool effect is ultimately attributed to an atmosphere-confined self-regulation mechanism. This methodology will significantly promote the fabrication for metal-zeolite catalysts, and further facilitate design and development of low-cost and high-activity catalysts. Reduction process is a key step to fabricate metal zeolite catalysts, but existing reduction technologies are always energy intensive and inevitably cause the agglomeration of metallic particles or destroy zeolite structure. Here the authors find that zeolites after ion exchange of ammonium display an interesting and unexpected self-reducing feature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gastric cancer (GC) is common in East Asia, yet its molecular and pathogenic mechanisms remain unclear. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are differentially expressed in GC and may be promising biomarkers. Here, we investigated the role and regulatory mechanism of circTMC5 in GC. Methods: CircTMC5 expression was detected in human GC and adjacent tissues using microarray assays and qRT-PCR, while the clinicopathological characteristics of patients with GC were used to assess its diagnostic and prognostic value. The circTMC5/miR-361-3p/RABL6 axis was examined in vitro and vivo, and the immune roles of RABL6 were evaluated using bioinformatics analyses and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Results: CircTMC5 was highly expressed in GC tissues, plasma, and cell lines, and was closely related to histological grade, pathological stage, and T classification in patients with GC. CircTMC5 expression was also an independent prognostic factor for GC and its combined detection with carcinoembryonic antigen may improve GC diagnosis. Low circTMC5 expression correlated with good prognosis, inhibited GC cell proliferation, and promoted apoptosis. Mechanistically, circTMC5 overexpression promoted GC cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis but inhibited apoptosis by sponging miR-361-3p and up-regulating RABL6 in vitro and vivo, whereas miR-361-3p up-regulation had the opposite effects. RABL6 was highly expressed in GC and was involved in immune regulation and infiltration in GC. Conclusions: CircTMC5 promotes GC and sponges miR-361-3p to up-regulate RABL6 expression, thus may have diagnostic and prognostic value in GC. RABL6 also displays therapeutic promise due to its role in the immune regulation of GC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For investigating the compression strength characteristics of the soil reinforced with wheat straws and its deformation and failure mode, unconfined compression strength (UCS) tests were carried out by changing the content and length of wheat straws. The mesostructure changes in the reinforced and unreinforced soil specimens during loading were compared and analyzed by using the computed tomography (CT) scanning. The results showed that the relationship curves between the axial stress and the strain of both soil specimens were the stress-softening type. The addition of wheat straws could effectively control the radial deformation of the soil specimens and improve their UCS. With an increase in the axial strain, the ability of the reinforcement to resist deformation was gradually increased to weaken the tendency of forming cracks through a plane. With the optimum content and length of wheat straws, UCS of the soil specimens reached the maximum value which was about 2.1 times that of the unreinforced soil samples. The CT scanning results also showed that the reinforcement with wheat straws could restrict soil deformation and crack growth. These results can provide references for the application of soil reinforcement with wheat straws in the geotechnical engineering field such as slope protection and ecological slope protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) targeting epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) improve the prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). However, the factors affecting its clinical efficacy remain unclear. This study aimed to determine the correlation between Osteopontin (OPN) and EGFR, and explore the inhibitory effect of first-generation TKI gefitinib on LUAD cells. Methods: The correlation between OPN and EGFR was determined through bioinformatics technology, and the clinical information as well as samples of related patients were collected to verify the relationship between them. Using three different NSCLC cell lines A549, H1299 and PC9, we studied the effects of OPN expression and EGFR phosphorylation on the first-generation TKI's efficacy in vitro. Results: Our data revealed that OPN staining positively linked to a more advanced clinical stage. Compared with the control group, LUAD cells with elevated OPN levels are more sensitive to the growth inhibitory effect of TKI. Knocking down of OPN decreased the response of cells to gefitinib. Besides, OPN also upregulated the phosphorylation of EGFR, thereby affecting the effect of TKI. Conclusion: OPN enhanced the sensitivity of LUAD cells to gefitinib by promoting EGFR phosphorylation. OPN may be a potential target for evaluating TKI efficacy and a potential target for molecular therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanical microenvironment affects the morphology and mechanical properties of cells, and it also plays an important role in cell functions. Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) grow as multicellular colonies, and the coupling effects of cell–cell and cell-extracellular matrix interactions are complex but necessary for the formations and functions of tissues. This paper uses the finite element method to establish a three-dimensional calculation model of a pair of deformed PSCs in contact with each other and considers the growth and depolymerization of actin filaments. Then the effects of substrate stiffness on the morphology of cells and nuclei and the rearrangement of cytoskeleton are demonstrated. As the substrate becomes softer, the nuclei become loose and round, and the actin filaments will be assembled at a lower level, which could promote the formation of compacted cell colony while having a positive effect on maintaining pluripotency and inducing reprogramming efficiency. In addition, stronger activation of cytoskeleton contractility will compress the cytoplasm and nuclei. The cell mechanics model proposed in this paper provides a strategy for studying the cell morphology and cytoskeleton response of the two-cell system under different biophysical stimuli, and also lays the foundation for the further research on more mechanical factors of cell pluripotency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Root resorption is a common complication during orthodontic treatment. Microcracks occur on the root surface after an orthodontic force is applied and may be related to the root resorption caused by the orthodontic process. However, the mechanisms underlying root resorption induced by microcracks remain unclear. In this study, a rat orthodontic model was used to investigate the biological mechanisms of root resorption caused by microcracks. First, the first molar was loaded with 0.5-N orthodontic force for 7 days, and microcracks were observed on the root apex surface using a scanning electron microscope. Second, to describe the mechanical principle resulting in microcracks, a finite element model of rat orthodontics was established, which showed that a maximum stress on the root apex can cause microcrack extension. Third, after 7 days of loading in vivo, histological observation revealed that root resorption occurred in the stress concentration area and cementoclasts appeared in the resorption cavity. Finally, proteomics analysis of the root apex area, excluding the periodontal ligament, revealed that the NOX2, Aifm1, and MAPK signaling pathways were involved in the root resorption process. Microcrack extension on the root surface increases calcium ion concentrations, alters the proteins related to root resorption, and promotes cementoclast formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exposure to cigarette smoke (CS) results in injury to the epithelial cells of the human respiratory tract and has been implicated as a causative factor in the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung cancers. The application of omics-scale methodologies has improved the capacity to understand cellular signaling processes underlying response to CS exposure. We report here the development of an algorithm based on quantitative assessment of transcriptomic profiles and signaling pathway perturbation analysis (SPPA) of human bronchial epithelial cells (HBEC) exposed to the toxic components present in CS. HBEC were exposed to CS of different compositions and for different durations using an ISO3308 smoking regime and the impact of exposure was monitored in 2263 signaling pathways in the cell to generate a total effect score that reflects the quantitative degree of impact of external stimuli on the cells. These findings support the conclusion that the SPPA algorithm provides an objective, systematic, sensitive means to evaluate the biological impact of exposures to CS of different compositions making a powerful comparative tool for commercial product evaluation and potentially for other known or potentially toxic environmental smoke substances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Long non-coding RNAs have been acknowledged as the crucial regulators in the progression of human cancers, including gastric cancer (GC). Small nucleolar RNA host gene 10 (SNHG10) has been identified as an oncogene in several cancer types. Nonetheless, it is unclear whether SNHG10 exerts functions in GC cells. Aims: The aims of the current study were to explore the function and underlying mechanism of SNHG10 in GC. Methods: The expression levels of SNHG10, miR-495-3p and catenin beta 1 (CTNNB1) were detected by RT-qPCR. Loss-of-function assays, including CCK-8, colony formation assay, flow cytometry analysis and transwell assays, were conducted to verify the effect of SHNG10 on the proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion of GC cells. Mechanism experiments were performed to identify the downstream molecular mechanism of SNHG10. Results: SNHG10 was expressed at a high level in GC cells. Knockdown of SNHG10 inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of GC cells. Silencing of SNHG10 led to the downregulation of core factors of WNT signaling pathway. Knockdown of SNHG10 could decline the expression of CTNNB1 through sequestering miR-495-3p. Conclusions: SNHG10 promotes the procession of GC through targeting miR-495-3p/CTNNB1 and activating WNT signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "XAF1 overexpression inhibits the malignant progression and cisplatin resistance of NSCLC by activating endoplasmic reticulum stress" published in Molecular Biology Reports. The correction includes the addition of missing information regarding ethical approval, funding, and competing interests. The authors also declare that they have no competing interests. Additionally, the affiliation of one of the authors has been removed. The original article has been corrected, and Springer Nature remains neutral in regards to jurisdictional claims and institutional affiliations. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) is among the deadliest forms of cancer globally. Carbonic anhydrase 12 (CA12) is known to play central roles in regulating many cancers, but its function in the context of PAAD is rarely discussed. This study was, therefore, designed to assess the expression of CA12 in PAAD and to explore its underlying mechanistic role in this cancer type. Methods: Immunohistochemical staining was used to measure CA12 expression in PAAD samples. The functionality of pancreatic cancer cells expressing varying levels of CA12 was assessed through wound healing, Transwell, and CCK-8 assays. In addition, flow cytometry was used to measure apoptosis and cell cycle progression in these same cells, while Western blotting was used to analyze the expression of proteins associated with the NF-κB signaling pathway. Results: PAAD tissue samples exhibited significant CA12 downregulation (P < 0.001), and lower CA12 expression was, in turn, associated with poorer overall survival (P < 0.001). CA12 overexpression significantly impaired the proliferation of PAAD cell lines, instead inducing their apoptotic death and G0/G1 phase cell cycle arrest (P < 0.05). We additionally found that CA12 may exert its tumor suppressive roles via modulating the NF-κB signaling pathway. Conclusion: These results indicate that CA12 functions as a tumor suppressor in PAAD and may thus be a novel therapeutic target that can be used to guide PAAD patient treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The unreasonable planning of land use in residential blocks affects the quality of the city and the comfort and convenience of urban residents. How to improve the vitality of the street from the source is an urgent problem to be solved in urban and rural planning disciplines. This paper selects 18 residential districts in Xi'an, and uses a multivariate linear stepwise regression to establish a relationship model between street vitality and intensive land use indices in three different periods of non-commuting, weekly commuting, and weekend. Using fuzzy evaluation techniques, the degree of land use intensification in different residential blocks was analyzed. Using the relational model and evaluation conclusions, the appropriate range of street vitality in residential blocks was determined, and the constructed model was used to obtain the suitable index range for intensive land use under street vitality. The results show that the street vitality and building density, the proportion of commercial space along the street and the red line width of the street are most affected during the non-commuting period during the week. The street vitality during the commute period is most closely related to the building density, building mix and street network density. Street dynamics are most closely related to building density, building mix, and street red line width during weekends. The conclusions of the study provide theoretical support and data support for the optimization and transformation of land use in residential blocks, and ultimately aim to stimulate street vitality and promote the realization of intensive land use in residential blocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinical studies have confirmed that the use of antibiotics, especially carbapenems, is a high-risk factor for fungal infection in preterm infants. However, it is not entirely clear whether the increased risk for fungal infection is due to the immune differences in preterm infants or antibiotic usage. We found that after newborn rats received antibiotics, they exhibited significantly impaired anti–Candida albicans immunity in comparison with those without treatment, as shown by significantly increased levels of fungal glucan in the peripheral blood, multiple caseous fungal infections in the abdominal cavity, intestinal congestion, ischemia, and a decrease in the number of intestinal villi. Mechanistically, pretreatment with antibiotics diminished antifungal innate immunity by TLR2 and inhibited IL-17A release and neutrophil recruitment, leading to increased susceptibility to fungi. In summary, we demonstrate that antibiotic usage impairs antifungal immunity in neonates and suggest that antifungal prophylaxis may be required after antibiotic treatment in high-risk preterm babies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the reliability of using anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) to measure the lower lid margin thickness (LLMT) from the posterior lash line to the Marx's line by comparing with a vernier micrometer. Methods: This was a prospective, single-center, diagnostic test study. Sixty volunteers aged between 20 and 79 without ocular diseases were recruited. A vernier micrometer and AS-OCT were, respectively, used to measure the same lid margin thickness at the central lower lid. Results: The mean age of volunteers was 39.1 ± 13.7 years. The LLMT in 60 subjects (25 males and 35 females) measured by a vernier micrometer and AS-OCT was 1.03 ± 0.25 mm and 0.82 ± 0.21 mm, respectively. There was a significant difference between two measurements (P < 0.001). In addition, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was engaged to evaluate the reliability and agreement of two measurements (ICC = 0.83). Bland–Altman plots demonstrated that 57 of 60 spots were within 95% limits of agreement. No adverse events were detected in all subjects after the measurements. Conclusion: Although the LLMT measured by AS-OCT was less than that measured by a vernier micrometer, AS-OCT providing quantitative measurements and imaging data was also seemed to be a reliable method with a good agreement. It could be a substitute for a vernier micrometer in clinical practice in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]