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To further explore the mechanism of coal spontaneous combustion and better grasp the laws of spontaneous combustion, this article studied the adsorption behavior of O2 in coal. Materials studio software was applied to study the adsorption of oxygen under different water content, different pore sizes, and different oxygen-containing functional groups by means of grand canonical Monte Carlo and molecular dynamics simulation methods. The results show that the adsorption capacity of O2 decreases with the increase in water content. With the increase of molecular pore size of coal, the adsorption capacity of O2 increases, and the tight adsorption amounts decrease. The equivalent adsorption heat is less than 42 kJ/mol, indicating that the adsorption of O2 in coal pores is physical adsorption. The smaller the physical adsorption energy and charge transfer value of the hydroxyl group for O2, it indicates that the hydroxyl group is the active group for the physical adsorption of O2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed germination is a complex, multistage developmental process that is an important step in plant development. In this study, RNA-Seq was conducted in the embryo and endosperm of unshelled germinating rice seeds. A total of 14,391 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between the dry seeds and the germinating seeds. Of these DEGs, 7109 were identified in both the embryo and endosperm, 3953 were embryo specific, and 3329 were endosperm specific. The embryo-specific DEGs were enriched in the plant-hormone signal-transduction pathway, while the endosperm-specific DEGs were enriched in phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan biosynthesis. We categorized these DEGs into early-, intermediate-, and late-stage genes, as well as consistently responsive genes, which can be enriched in various pathways related to seed germination. Transcription-factor (TF) analysis showed that 643 TFs from 48 families were differentially expressed during seed germination. Moreover, 12 unfolded protein response (UPR) pathway genes were induced by seed germination, and the knockout of OsBiP2 resulted in reduced germination rates compared to the wild type. This study enhances our understanding of gene responses in the embryo and endosperm during seed germination and provides insight into the effects of UPR on seed germination in rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We aimed to build a novel model with golgi apparatus related genes (GaGs) signature and relevant clinical parameters for predicting progression-free interval (PFI) after surgery for papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). Methods: We performed a bioinformatic analysis of integrated PTC datasets with the GaGs to identify differentially expressed GaGs (DE-GaGs). Then we generated PFI-related DE-GaGs and established a novel GaGs based signature. After that, we validated the signature on multiple external datasets and PTC cell lines. Further, we conducted uni- and multivariate analyses to identify independent prognostic characters. Finally, we established a signature and clinical parameters-based nomogram for predicting the PFI of PTC. Results: We identified 260 DE-GaGs related to PFI in PTC. The functional enrichment analysis showed that the DE-MTGs were associated with an essential oncogenic glycoprotein biosynthetic process. Consequently, we established and optimized a novel 11 gene signature that could distinguish patients with poorer prognoses and predicted PFI accurately. The novel signature had a C-index of 0.78, and the relevant nomogram had a C-index of 0.79. Also, it was closely related to the pivotal clinical characters of and anaplastic potential in datasets and PTC cell lines. And the signature was confirmed a significant independent prognostic factor in PTC. Finally, we built a nomogram by including the signature and relevant clinical factors. Validation analysis showed that the nomogram's efficacy was satisfying in predicting PTC's PFI. Conclusion: The GaGs signature and nomogram were closely associated with PTC prognosis and may help clinicians improve the individualized prediction of PFI, especially for high-risk patients after surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Design and fabrication of phosphoric acid (PA)-doped polybenzimidazole (PBI) membranes with high proton conductivity, mechanical property and phosphoric acid retention stability has been a critical challenge. In this study, a sulfonated ionic covalent organic framework (SCOF) was in-situ synthesized in the polybenzimidazole matrix. The high-density sulfonic groups and ordered channel structure of SCOF rendered the as-prepared composite membrane high proton conductivity under low phosphoric acid doping level. Additionally, the introduction of SCOF helped to immobilize the phosphoric acid, thus effectively reducing its loss and improving the acid retention stability. The acid-base interaction formed between the sulfonic acid and imidazole groups act as ionic crosslinkers, which significantly enhanced the mechanical-dimensional stability of composite membranes. As a result, the PA-PBI/SCOF composite membrane exhibited a high proton conductivity up to 542.1 mS cm−1 at 80 °C, 100 % RH and 134.1 mS cm−1 at 30 °C, 50 % RH, as well as a high mechanical strength up to 64.0 MPa (PA uptake: 67.47 %). This in-situ synthesis strategy offers a promising new approach to fabricate covalent organic framework-based composite membranes for various applications. [Display omitted] • A sulfonated covalent organic framework (SCOF) was in-situ synthesized in polybenzimidazole matrix to prepare composite membranes. • The as-prepared composite membrane exhibited high mechanical strength, proton conductivity and phosphoric acid retention stability. • The composite membrane showed comparable performance in electrochemical hydrogen compression and proton exchange membrane fuel cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A hydrogen-bond binding strategy is proposed to fabricate iCOF nanosheets (iCONs) and tannic acid (TA) composite membranes. • TA nanoaggregates were synthesized as hydrogen-bond binders. • Abundant hydrogen-bond interactions enable flexible connection between iCONs. • Highly interconnected hydrogen-bond networks facilitate rapid proton transport. • The membranes showed both enhanced mechanical properties and proton conductivity. Robust and highly conductive proton exchange membrane (PEM) is the unremitting pursuit of numerous electrochemical energy technologies such as fuel cell and the emerging electrochemical hydrogen compression. Ionic covalent organic framework nanosheets (iCONs) with long-range ordered nanochannels and abundant ionic groups show substantial potential as next-generation PEM materials. However, it is challenging to assemble iCONs into membranes with both robustness and flexibility due to the electrostatic repulsion and rigid framework. Herein, we propose a hydrogen-bond binding strategy to fabricate sulfonic iCON (SCON) composite membranes by co-assembling tannic acid (TA) nanoaggregates and SCONs. The abundant and dynamically reversible hydrogen-bond interactions introduced by TA nanoaggregates establish effective linkage between SCONs and allow some restricted movements, endowing membranes with remarkably improved mechanical properties. The stacked SCONs construct long-range ordered nanochannels with well-arranged sulfonic groups in membranes, and the hydrogen-bond networks further facilitate the proton transport through Grotthuss mechanism. Consequently, TA/SCON composite membranes displays significantly enhanced tensile strength of 101.9 MPa, good flexibility and high proton conductivity of 490.1 mS cm−1 at 80 °C and 100 % RH simultaneously. This hydrogen-bond binding strategy offers a promising approach to fabricate robust and highly conductive PEMs for various proton-conducting applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A day-ahead generation and HVDC transmission joint scheduling method is presented. • Operation cost, carbon and pollutant emission are considered in objective function. • A distributed scheduling model is established based on SADMM technique. • The normal boundary intersection method is used to handle multiple objectives. • Case studies of a two-area HVDC-linked power grid show the method's effectiveness. In order to improve the overall operation economy and efficiency of two-area HVDC-linked power grids, a distributed scheduling approach is presented in this paper for the multi-objective day-ahead generation and HVDC transmission joint scheduling (GHT-JS) problem. At first, a multi-objective day-ahead GHT-JS model is formulated aiming at minimizing the operation cost, the carbon emission and the pollutant emission, in which HVDC tie-line operation constraints are considered. Secondly, the normal boundary intersection method is implemented to transform the multi-objective GHT-JS problem into a series of single-objective GHT-JS problems. Then, a distributed scheduling model is established based on the synchronous alternating direction method of multipliers for each single-objective problem. The original problem is decomposed into an upper-level master sub-problem of coordinating HVDC transmission power and two parallel lower-level generation scheduling sub-problems. Finally, case studies of a two-area interconnected test system via two HVDC tie-lines show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the water jet slotting coal seam permeability increase technology, the stress distribution state of the coal after slotting is analyzed, and the radial and tangential stresses of the slotted borehole are calculated. Based on the theoretical analysis of the influence radius of the water jet slotting, the technical process based on the water jet slotting drilling arrangement is determined. According to the field measured data, the statistical dynamic indicators were analyzed to verify the effect of coal seam gas extraction after water jet slotting. The research shows that compared with the conventional drilling, the gas extraction concentration with water jet slotting drilling is increased by 3.6 times, the flow is increased by 2.7 times, the pure flow is increased by 9.7 times, the average wind discharge of the west wing of the upper third mining is decreased by 0.68 m3/min and reduced by 26.98%. The gas content of the water jet slotting drilling section is more reduced by 0.48 m3/t; when the extraction radius is 3.0 m, the extraction time of the water jet slotting drilling section is 41days. The comparison was shortened by 43 days.

The reactivity of oxidizing materials is highly related to the exposed crystal facets. Herein, δ-MnO 2 with different exposure facets were synthesized and the oxidative activities of the as-prepared materials were evaluated by degrading phenol in water without light. The degradation rate of phenol by δ-MnO 2 -{−111} was significantly higher than that by δ-MnO 2 -{001}. δ-MnO 2 -{−111} also displayed high degradation efficiency to a variety of other organic pollutants, such as ciprofloxacin, bisphenol A, 3-chlorophenol and sulfadiazine. Comprehensive characterization and theoretical calculation verified that the {−111} facet had high density of Mn3+, thus displaying enhanced direct oxidative capacity to degrade organic pollutants. In addition, the dominant {−111} facet promoted adsorption/activation of O 2 , thus favored the generation of superoxide radical (O 2 •−), which actively participated in the degradation of pollutants. The phenol degradation kinetics could be divided into two distinct phases: the rapid phase (k 1 obs = 0.468 min−1) induced by Mn3+ and the slower phase (k 2 obs = 0.048 min−1) dominated by O 2 •−. The synergistically promoted non-radical and radical based reactions resulted in greatly enhanced the oxidative activity of the δ-MnO 2 -{−111}. These findings deepen the understanding of facet-dependent oxidative performance of materials and provided valuable insights into the possible practical application of δ-MnO 2 for water purification. [Display omitted] • δ-MnO 2 with different exposure facets of {001} and {−111} were prepared. • δ-MnO 2 -{− 111} exhibits high efficiency to remove a variety of pollutants. • The exposure of Mn3+ on the surface directly affects the degradation of pollutants. • Degradation efficiency was attributed by the synergistic effects of Mn3+ and O 2 •−. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing effective organic solvent nanofiltration (OSN) membranes to separate molecular solutes from organic solvents is highly desired yet requires a suitable material platform and an in-depth investigation of membrane selectivity. Herein, an oriented ionic covalent organic framework membrane (oi -COM) was fabricated, which features well-ordered channels that are vertically aligned towards the membrane surface and lined with abundant sulfonate groups. Filtration experiments of multifarious organic solvents and solutes with different charges and molecular sizes were conducted. The oi -COM exhibited above 99% rejection for negatively charged dye (Evans blue), much higher than that for positively charged dye with similar molecular size, while maintaining high solvent permeance for ethanol of 63 L m−2 h−1 bar−1. These results demonstrated the significance of electrostatic repulsion effect in membrane selectivity, providing insights for the design of high-performance OSN membranes. Oriented ionic COF nanosheet membranes are fabricated, which demonstrate high organic solvent nanofiltration performance and charge-controlled molecular separation. [Display omitted] • Oriented ionic COF nanosheet membranes were fabricated and applied to organic solvent nanofiltration. • The membranes displayed well-defined, vertically aligned and high-density charged channels. • The membranes exhibited excellent solvent permeance for ethanol of 63 L m−2 h−1 bar−1. • The membranes exhibited <99% rejection of anionic dyes, much higher than cationic dyes. • The effect of electrostatic repulsion on membrane selectivity in organic solvents has been demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proton exchange membranes (PEMs) are the core components of electrochemical hydrogen energy production, storage and conversion devices. It is a great challenge to develop PEMs with a combination of high proton conductivity, minimal H 2 crossover and mechanical robustness for achieving high efficiency and long-term stability in these devices. Here, a co-assembled PEM composed of ionic covalent organic framework (iCOF) nanosheets and functionalized graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets was presented. The iCOF (TpPa-SO 3 H) nanosheets and polydopamine-modified graphene oxide (DGO) nanosheets were co-assembled into TpPa-SO 3 H/DGO mixed nanosheets with ultrahigh aspect ratio, which were readily further processed into TpPa-SO 3 H/DGO co-assembled membranes. The abundant and uniformly distributed –SO 3 H groups on TpPa-SO 3 H nanosheets and the acid-base pairs formed between TpPa-SO 3 H and DGO nanosheets promoted proton conduction significantly. Additionally, the dense structured DGO nanosheets inhibited H 2 crossover remarkably, and the multiple interactions between TpPa-SO 3 H and DGO nanosheets enhanced mechanical strength. The resultant TpPa-SO 3 H/DGO co-assembled membrane exhibited an ultrahigh proton conductivity of 916.4 mS cm−1 (80 °C, 100% RH), an unprecedently low H 2 crossover of 9.7 barrer and a sufficient tensile stress of 87.8 MPa. The enhanced proton conduction and H 2 barrier property led to enhanced performance in both electrochemical hydrogen compression and single hydrogen fuel cells. [Display omitted] • Co-assembly strategy is proposed to prepare iCOF/DGO mixed nanosheets with ultrahigh aspect ratio. • The as-prepared mixed nanosheets with ultrahigh aspect ratio are readily assembled into membranes without nanosheets stacking gaps. • The membranes through co-assembly strategy exhibit ultrahigh proton conductivity and unprecedently low H 2 crossover simultaneously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laser scan data are popularly adopted to capture the conditions of existing buildings for as-is BIM reconstruction, also known as scan-to-BIM. Down-sampling of massive laser scan data is a critical pre-processing step for efficient scan-to-BIM. It is also crucial to accurately retain the geometric and semantic information of existing buildings during the down-sampling process. However, existing down-sampling approaches mainly focus on the preservation of geometric features only, without considering semantic features. This study developed an adaptive down-sampling method, which is able to maintain scan points containing critical geometric or semantic information and only down-sample scan points containing no critical information. The proposed method first conducts a geometry-based segmentation to identify edge points and non-planar points, which contain critical geometric information. Then, a semantic-based segmentation is performed to identify points with critical semantic information (e.g. labels and information boards). All the points containing either geometric or semantic information are retained, while points containing no critical information are down-sampled to reduce data redundancy. Experiments were conducted on four scenes, which showed that the proposed method was suitable for point cloud data with different accuracies and could achieve a better performance in preserving both geometric and semantic information than the traditional voxel-based method and the curvature-based method. It is proved that down-sampled data with the proposed method could generate as-is BIMs with more accurate geometric and semantic information. • An adaptive down-sampling method of laser scan data for scan-to-BIM is proposed. • Critical geometric and semantic information are preserved during down-sampling. • As-is BIMs with more accurate geometric and semantic information can be generated. • Experimental validation on four different indoor scanning scenes is conducted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The voltage swell (VS) in power system may require high voltage ride through (HVRT) of wind farms (WFs), and the detailed WF simulation model would need huge computational time, and thus is not be suitable for the analysis of HVRT dynamic behaviour of large-scale WFs. In this paper, a novel WF equivalent model with the required accuracy level for HVRT analysis is proposed. Firstly, multiscale entropies (MSEs) of the operational parameters in wind turbines (WTs) are calculated to represent their distinguishability in different HVRT processes, and the time series of several parameters which have obvious distinguishability are selected as the multi-view clustering indicators (CIs). To handle the multi-view CIs, a new clustering algorithm namely multi-view incremental transfer fuzzy C means (MVIT-FCM) is proposed. This algorithm integrates the transfer learning technique to increase the stability and accuracy of the WTs clustering. Also, the high-dimensionality of the time series based CIs and the consequent computational burden in clustering are considered, and an incremental technique is applied in MVIT-FCM to handle the large-scale WF modelling. A real WF system is used for case study. The results indicate that the multi-view CIs are very effective for increasing the equivalent accuracies. In addition, with the aid of incremental and transfer learning techniques, MVIT-FCM can acquire stable clustering results and handle large-scale WF accurately and efficiently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the intermittency and uncertainty natures of wind power, electrical energy storages (EESs) are often equipped in the power systems to reduce the side-effect of wind power fluctuations, and adiabatic compressed air energy storage (A-CAES) is one of EES technologies to smooth the power fluctuation of wind farms (WFs). This paper proposes a coordinated control framework of WF and A-CAES station to achieve frequency response, and discusses the active power distribution scheme among wind turbines (WTs) and A-CAES units during frequency regulation. Firstly, the models of WT and A-CAES used in frequency regulation are presented. Then, considering that the power distribution might go through a long iteration process when the number of WTs in WF is quite large, these WTs are clustered into several groups using a comprehensive multi-view grouping indicator. On the basis of the WTs grouping result and with a defined generalized energy increment (GEI), this paper proposes a discrete consensus based tri-level coordinated frequency control method, which divides the control into three levels, i.e., group level, wind farm level and coordinated level. Through the three levels' control, the method can reasonably and rapidly distribute the frequency regulation powers among WTs and A-CAES units without being limited by the scale of WF, and the coordination of WF and A-CAES station during frequency regulation is achieved. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method, a modified WF in Inner Mongolia of China is utilized for case study. Simulation results show that the proposed method is valid in various frequency events and can reach consensus within 4 s in the studied cases, and it is well-performed with different capacities of wind powers and A-CAESs in the power systems. The common communication failures have few influences on the methods, and the frequency nadirs fluctuate lower than 0.1 Hz with time delays in the communications. Compared with centralized and multi-machine equivalent methods, the proposed distributed method can balance the computational speed and the solution accuracy, and thus is beneficial to improve the system frequency nadirs when frequency drops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Fe-MOF photocatalyst is synthesized for decomplexation of Cu-EDTA. • Great performance for Cu-EDTA decomplexation and mineralization is obtained. • Cu-EDTA decomplexation process is driven by h+, ·OH, 1O 2 , and ·O 2 –. • Fenton and co-precipitation derived from Fe release favor Cu-EDTA decomplexation. • Possible decomplexation pathways of Cu-EDTA by Fe-MOF are proposed. Heavy metal–organic complexes are difficult to remove by classic precipitation methods. In this study, MIL-53(Fe) photocatalyst was successfully synthesized and its photocatalytic activity for the decomplexation of heavy metal–organic complex was explored. Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid complexed copper (Cu-EDTA) was chosen as the target. Experimental results showed that approximately 91% of Cu-EDTA was decomposed within 60 min under ultraviolet irradiation (UV), and 64% was mineralized within 120 min. Cu-EDTA decomplexation was mainly driven by the production of h+, HO• and 1O 2 from the MIL-53(Fe). Fe(III) released from the MIL-53(Fe) was reduced by the photogenerated electrons and Cu(I) to form Fe(Ⅱ), which inhibited the recombination of photogenerated electrons and h+. More importantly, Fenton-like reactions and coprecipitation derived from the released Fe(III) promoted the decomplexation of Cu-EDTA. As a result, some small molecular compounds, including glycine, acetic acid, nitrilotriacetic acid, oxalic acid, oxamic acid, and NO 3 –, were generated. The possible decomplexation pathways of Cu-EDTA by MIL-53(Fe) photocatalysis were proposed. Effects of coexisting inorganic ions and organic matter on Cu-EDTA decomplexation were evaluated. Furthermore, the photocatalytic degradation potentials for other heavy metal complexes were also explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Proteasome-dependent degradation of regulatory proteins is a known mechanism of cell cycle control. p21WAF1/CIP1 (p21), a negative regulator of the cell division cycle, exhibits proteasome-sensitive turnover and ubiquitination. In the present study, we analyzed the regulatory effects of JNK1 on p21 protein accumulation in p53 null K562 cells. We found that JNK1 (wild type, WT) mediated H2O2-induced p21 protein up-regulation. Over-expression of JNK1 (WT) could elevate endogenous p21 protein level but did not affect p21 mRNA level and also prolong the p21 half-life as well as inhibited the p21 ubiquitination. These findings indicated that JNK1 could regulate cellular p21 level via inhibiting ubiquitination of p21, which provided a new insight for analyzing the regulatory effect of JNK after stress. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

It is a vital precondition that the aeroengine start-up quickly and successfully to ensure a safe flight, but the engine start-up process is a very complex non-equilibrium, non-linear aerothermodynamics process. This paper establishes a start-up process model of helicopter turboshaft engine by combining theoretical modeling with experimental data. Firstly, based on the stage-stacking method, the characteristics of low-speed components of compressor and turbine are approximately estimated with the characteristics of typical components, design point parameters and component structure. Then in full consideration of the change of combustion efficiency, the impact of the combustion chamber and turbine's thermal inertia, a helicopter turboshaft engine's start-up process model is developed on the basis of component method, and the above-idle state modeling method is successfully applied to the start-up process. The simulation shows that the model is in conformity with real-time and accuracy requirements, and simulates the start-up process quite well. Finally, the performance analysis of the start-up process is carried out based on the model, which shows that the model provides a general platform and engineering reference value for the design of the engine start-up control system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: No significant difference in disease-specific survival and recurrence-free survival exists between papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) patients with high-risk features subjected to lobectomy and thyroidectomy. However, it is unclear which type of patients with unilateral PTC combined with ipsilateral clinical involved lymph nodes (cN1) can receive a less aggressive treatment., Methods: We collected the medical records of 631 patients diagnosed with unilateral PTC and ipsilateral cN1. These patients initially underwent total thyroidectomy and bilateral central lymph node dissection (LND), with or without lateral LND. We conducted an analysis to investigate the associations between contralateral occult central lymph node metastasis (CLNM) and clinicopathologic factors., Results: The proportion of contralateral occult CLNM was 38.9 %. Age ≤45 years, tumor diameter >1 cm, obesity, and involvement of lymph node regions ≥2 were independent risk factors for contralateral occult CLNM. Multifocality and ipsilateral neck high-volume lymph node metastases were independent risk factors among the postoperative pathological factors. A predicting model was developed to quantify the risk of each factor, which revealed that patients without any of the risk factors mentioned above had a 20-30 % probability of contralateral occult CLNM, whereas the probability was greater than 60 % when all factors were present., Conclusion: Based on the predictive nomograms, we proposed a risk stratification scheme based on different nomogram scores. In the debate about prophylactic central LND among contralateral central lymph node in unilateral PTC with ipsilateral clinical LNM, our nomograms provide the balance to avoid overtreatment and undertreatment through personal risk assessment., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: Multimodal cocktail analgesic injection (CAI) is widely used as an adjunct pain-reliever in the postoperative phase of patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) due to intense postoperative pain accompanying the procedure leading to complications, thereby extending hospital stays. The aim of this study is to establish the clinical efficacy and effects of utilizing CAI regimens during the TKA procedure and the corresponding postoperative patient outcomes., Methods: A database search for pertinent articles literature search was performed in Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and MEDLINE databases. RevMan version 5.4 was used to perform a meta-analysis on the included studies., Results: Data screening and selection produced 15 relevant articles that met the eligibility criteria of this study. The meta-analysis revealed insignificant difference between cocktail injected and control groups in VAS postoperative pain scores both at rest and during activity (OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.59 to 1.05; I2 = 0%; P = .93) and (OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.57 to 1.10; I2 = 0%; P = .75), respectively. Similarly, there was insignificant differences in postoperative knee flexion ROM, postoperative narcotic consumption, and length of stays between the two groups, (OR 1.20, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.40; P = .53), (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.36 to 1.07; P = .09), and (OR 0.45, 95% CI 0.29 to 0.70; P = .21), respectively. However, the postoperative complications reveal statistical significance between the cocktail injected and the control group (OR 0.45, 95% CI 0.29 to 0.70; P = .004)., Conclusion: It is concluded that CAI can play a crucial role in minimizing post-operative complications for patients undergoing TKA.

Study Design: We constructed finite element (FE) models of the cervical spine consisting of C2-C7 and predicted the biomechanical effects of different surgical procedures and instruments on adjacent segments, internal fixation systems, and the overall cervical spine through FE analysis., Objective: To compare the biomechanical effects between the zero-profile device and cage-plate device in skip-level multistage anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF)., Summary of Background Data: ACDF is often considered the standard treatment for degenerative cervical spondylosis. However, the selection of surgical methods and instruments in cases of skip-level cervical degenerative disk disease is still controversial., Materials and Methods: Three FE models were constructed, which used noncontiguous 2-level Zero-P (NCZP) devices for C3/4 and C5/6, a noncontiguous 2-level cage-plate (NCCP) for C3/4 and C5/6, and a contiguous 3-level cage-plate (CCP) for C3/6. Simulate daily activities in ABAQUS. The range of motion (ROM), von Mises stress distribution of the endplate and internal fixation system, and intervertebral disk pressure (IDP) of each model were recorded and compared., Results: Similar to the stress of the cortical bone, the maximum stress of the Zero-P device was higher than that of the CP device for most activities. The ROM increments of the superior, inferior, and intermediate segments of the NCZP model were lower than those of the NCCP and CCP models in many actions. In terms of the IDP, the increment value of stress for the NCZP model was the smallest, whereas those of the NCCP and CCP models were larger. Similarly, the increment value of stress on the endplate also shows the minimum in the NCZP model., Conclusions: Noncontiguous ACDF with zero profile can reduce the stress on adjacent intervertebral disks and endplates, resulting in a reduced risk of adjacent segment disease development. However, the high cortical bone stress caused by the Zero-P device may influence the risk of fractures., Competing Interests: The authors report no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.)

High-throughput dynamic imaging of cells and organelles is essential for understanding complex cellular responses. We report Mantis, a high-throughput 4D microscope that integrates two complementary, gentle, live-cell imaging technologies: remote-refocus label-free microscopy and oblique light-sheet fluorescence microscopy. Additionally, we report shrimPy (Smart High-throughput Robust Imaging and Measurement in Python), an open-source software for high-throughput imaging, deconvolution, and single-cell phenotyping of 4D data. Using Mantis and shrimPy, we achieved high-content correlative imaging of molecular dynamics and the physical architecture of 20 cell lines every 15 min over 7.5 h. This platform also facilitated detailed measurements of the impacts of viral infection on the architecture of host cells and host proteins. The Mantis platform can enable high-throughput profiling of intracellular dynamics, long-term imaging and analysis of cellular responses to perturbations, and live-cell optical screens to dissect gene regulatory networks., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of National Academy of Sciences.)

Introduction: Although inguinal hernia (IH) is prevalent in elderly males, research on its specific diagnostic biomarkers is limited. Protein N -glycosylation is one of the most important and ubiquitous post-translational modifications and often results in a remarkable heterogeneity of protein glycoforms. Protein N -glycosylation often changes in a disease and holds great potential for discovering non-invasive biomarkers. This study aimed to gain insights into total serum protein N -glycosylation of IH to identify candidate non-invasive biomarkers for diagnosis and subtype classification of IH., Methods: Linkage-specific sialylation derivatization combined with matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry detection was used to analyze serum protein N -glycosylation patterns in IH patients and healthy controls., Results: IH patients had abnormal glycan fucosylation and sialylation compared to healthy controls (HC), of which two glycan traits representing linkage-specific sialylation within monoantennary glycans showed high potential as diagnostic biomarkers for IH with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.75. Additionally, serum N -glycans were different between indirect IH and direct IH in glycosylation features, namely complexity, fucosylation, galactosylation, sialylation, and α2,6-linked sialylation. Four distinctive glycans between the two subtypes showed good performance with AUC >0.8, suggesting that these glycan traits have potential as biomarkers for subtype classification., Conclusions: We first reported the serum N -glycomic features of IH patients. Furthermore, we identified several potential biomarkers for the diagnosis and subtype classification of IH. These findings can deepen the understanding of IH., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2024 The Authors.)

Pancreatic cancer is an aggressive cancer with a poor prognosis. Metabolic abnormalities are one of the hallmarks of pancreatic cancer, and pancreatic cancer cells can adapt to biosynthesis, energy intake, and redox needs through metabolic reprogramming to tolerate nutrient deficiency and hypoxic microenvironments. Pancreatic cancer cells can use glucose, amino acids, and lipids as energy to maintain malignant growth. Moreover, they also metabolically interact with cells in the tumour microenvironment to change cell fate, promote tumour progression, and even affect immune responses. Importantly, metabolic changes at the body level deserve more attention. Basic research and clinical trials based on targeted metabolic therapy or in combination with other treatments are in full swing. A more comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the metabolic regulation of pancreatic cancer cells will not only enrich the understanding of the mechanisms of disease progression but also provide inspiration for new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Currently, the clinical outcomes of peripheral nerve injuries are suboptimal, highlighting the urgent need to understand the mechanisms of nerve injury to enhance treatment strategies. Muscle-derived stem cells (MDSCs) are a diverse group of multipotent cells that hold promise for peripheral nerve regeneration due to their strong antioxidant and regenerative properties. Our research has revealed that severe ferroptosis occurs in the sciatic nerve and ipsilateral dorsal root ganglion following sciatic nerve injury. Interestingly, we have observed that MDSC-derived exosomes effectively suppress cell ferroptosis and enhance cell viability in Schwann cells and dorsal root ganglion cells. Treatment with exosomes led to increased expression of BDNF and P62 in Schwann cells, decreased expression of Keap1, Nrf2, and HO-1 in Schwann cells, and upregulated dorsal root ganglion cells. Rats treated with exosomes exhibited improvements in sciatic nerve function, sensitivity to stimuli, and reduced muscle atrophy, indicating a positive impact on post-injury recovery. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate the occurrence of ferroptosis in the sciatic nerve and dorsal root ganglion post-injury, with MDSC exosomes offering a potential therapeutic strategy by inhibiting ferroptosis, activating the Keap1-Nrf2-HO-1 pathway, and optimizing the post-injury repair environment., (© 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Disentangled representation learning is typically achieved by a generative model, variational encoder (VAE). Existing VAE-based methods try to disentangle all the attributes simultaneously in a single hidden space, while the separation of the attribute from irrelevant information varies in complexity. Thus, it should be conducted in different hidden spaces. Therefore, we propose to disentangle the disentanglement itself by assigning the disentanglement of each attribute to different layers. To achieve this, we present a stair disentanglement net (STDNet), a stair-like structure network with each step corresponding to the disentanglement of an attribute. An information separation principle is employed to peel off the irrelevant information to form a compact representation of the targeted attribute within each step. Compact representations, thus, obtained together form the final disentangled representation. To ensure the final disentangled representation is compressed as well as complete with respect to the input data, we propose a variant of the information bottleneck (IB) principle, the stair IB (SIB) principle, to optimize a tradeoff between compression and expressiveness. In particular, for the assignment to the network steps, we define an attribute complexity metric to assign the attributes by the complexity ascending rule (CAR) that dictates a sequencing of the attribute disentanglement in ascending order of complexity. Experimentally, STDNet achieves state-of-the-art results in representation learning and image generation on multiple benchmarks, including Mixed National Institute of Standards and Technology database (MNIST), dSprites, and CelebA. Furthermore, we conduct thorough ablation experiments to show how the strategies employed here contribute to the performance, including neurons block, CAR, hierarchical structure, and variational form of SIB.

Flexible sensors for application in various industries, including biomedicine and wearable electronics, are frequently made using silver nanoparticle (AgNP) inks and inkjet printing (IJP) technology. Inkjet-printed flexible electronic devices are made up of many printed lines that run parallel to each other, and the surface morphology of the printed lines and the interline state directly impact the electrical conductivity of the electronic devices. This paper describes the experimental setup for IJP, the definition of print line characteristics, and common unavoidable defects. Conductivity and physical defects are considered in defining the print line quality assessment. In addition, two prediction models of flexible sensors before batch printing and a model for detecting defects after printing are provided. The predictive models can guide actions, leading to a print success rate of over 80%. We build the defect detection model using a neural architecture search because manually fine-tuning neural networks for reference is challenging. Finally, a target detection model with a mAP@0.5 of 81.2% is built in just 0.77 graphics processing unit (GPU) days. The model takes only 4.6 ms to detect an image, satisfying the real-time monitoring needs. At the same time, an accuracy of 95.5% can be achieved in the test data set. This work provides a new idea for the high-volume preparation of flexible sensors.

Background: Despite recent improvements in perioperative outcomes after pheochromocytoma resection, hemodynamic instability (HI) remained of high concern. The emergence of robot-assisted surgery may bring different results to pheochromocytoma surgery. The purposes of this study were to investigate whether robot-assisted retroperitoneal pheochromocytoma resection promotes hemodynamic instability compared with laparoscopic retroperitoneal pheochromocytoma resection and construct a nomogram to predict perioperative hemodynamic instability., Methods: The clinical data of 221 patients who underwent pheochromocytoma resection were analyzed retrospectively. The patients were divided into two groups according to the mode of operation. Stepwise logistic regression was used to determine the independent risk factors of perioperative hemodynamic instability and to construct a visual prediction model. The final model was visualized via a nomogram., Results: 124 (56.1 %) out of 221 patients experienced HI. The variables that were eventually included in the model were tumor size (OR1.363(1.143-1.646), P < 0.001), abnormal blood glucose (OR3.381(1.534-7.903), P = 0.003), preoperative SBP(OR1.04(1.014-1.067),P = 0.002), robot-assisted surgery(OR0.241(0.108-0.513),P < 0.001), and catecholamines(OR4.567(2.424-8.834),P < 0.001). The receiver operating characteristic curve showed the area under curve was 0.816(95 %CI 0.761-0.871)., Conclusion: We developed a nomogram for successful prediction of perioperative hemodynamics based on five independent risk factors. Clinicians can leverage this easy-to-use nomogram to perform personalized risk predictions for HI and develop preventive interventions to improve patient safety and surgical outcomes., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors have no relevant financial or non-financial interests to disclose., (© 2024 Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

It has been well-established that the number of vertebrae is associated with body size and meat productivity. In current study we utilized a digital radiography (DR) technology to detect the number of thoracolumbar vertebrae in live donkeys. For this purpose, we introduced for the first time a groundbreaking device designed by our team for assessing thoracolumbar vertebrae number traits in equids, employing a sample of 1,000 donkeys sourced from five distinct donkey farms. This assessment incorporates a range of crucial body metrics, including body height, length, and various other measurements. Subsequently, our study determined the number of thoracolumbar vertebrae in 112 donkeys, utilizing the DR system. These findings were further validated through post-mortem evaluations conducted by slaughtering the donkeys. Our findings demonstrated a remarkable resemblance between the thoracolumbar vertebrae numbers visualized through the DR system in live donkeys and those obtained via slaughter verification. In conclusion, this research underscores the accuracy and effectiveness of the DR system for the detection of thoracolumbar vertebrae in live donkeys, which might be helpful for assessing the body size and meat productivity. We also recommended the utilization of DR system for counting thoracolumbar vertebrae in other animals in live state and could be a useful addition to livestock business industry for the prediction of body size and meat productivity efficiency., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest. The reviewer NK declared a past co-authorship with the author MZ to the handling editor., (Copyright © 2024 Wang, Zahoor Khan, Liu, Wang, Shi, Ren, Zhan and Wang.)

Background: Transmembrane 25(TMEM25) stands out as a potential prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in the realm of cancer, yet its precise mechanism of action within clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) remains unclear., Materials and Methods: Gene expression data and clinically relevant information extracted from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene expression omnibus (GEO) databases unveil the expression patterns of TMEM25 within renal clear cell carcinoma, which reveals its prognostic and diagnostic significance. The protein expression data is available via the Human Protein Atlas (HPA) database. Further, qPCR experiments conducted on cells and tissues provide strong evidence of the gene's expression status. Additionally, they explore the correlations between TMEM25 expression and DNA methylation, gene mutations, immune cell infiltration, and drug sensitivity within this specific tumor context., Results: At both the RNA and protein levels, TMEM25 displays a noteworthy downregulation in expression, which is consistently linked to an unfavorable prognosis. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses confirmed the ability of TMEM25 to diagnose and determine prognosis in ccRCC. Its expression related closely with various immune cell types, immune checkpoints, immune inhibitors, and MHC molecules. Within ccRCC tissues, TMEM25 DNA methylation levels are observed to be elevated, and this upregulation is observed across various conditions. TMEM25 mutations also have an impact on the prognosis of ccRCC patients and the results of drug sensitivity analyses are useful for clinical decision-making., Conclusions: TMEM25 in ccRCC could potentially function as a tumor suppressor gene, holding substantial promise as a novel biomarker for diagnosing, treating, and prognosticating ccRCC patients.

Electrochemical hydrogen compression (EHC) is an emerging energy conversion technology. Proton exchange membranes (PEMs) with high proton conductivity and high mechanical strength are highly required to meet the practical requirements of EHC. Herein, ionic covalent organic frameworks (iCOFs) with tunable side chains were synthesized and introduced into the sulfonated poly (ether ether ketone) (SPEEK) matrix to fabricate hybrid PEMs. In our membranes, the rigid iCOFs afford ordered proton conduction channels, whereas the flexible side chains on iCOFs afford abundant proton conduction sites, adaptive hydrogen bonding networks, and high local density short hydrogen bonds for highly efficient proton transport. Moreover, the hydrogen bond interactions between the side chains on iCOFs and the SPEEK matrix enhance the mechanical stability of membranes. As a result, the hybrid PEM acquires an enhanced proton conductivity of 540.4 mS cm -1 (80 °C, 100%RH), a high mechanical strength of 120.41 MPa, and a superior performance (2.3 MPa at 30 °C, 100%RH) in EHC applications.

TBC1 domain family member 25 (TBC1D25) is a crucial mediator of signal transduction involved in the development of several diseases. Particularly, a cardioprotective role of TBC1D25 has been raised due to its antagonistic action on cardiac hypertrophy. However, whether TBC1D25 protects the myocardium from ischemia-reperfusion injury has not been reported. This work aimed to determine the role of TBC1D25 in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (MIR) injury and to explore the potential mechanisms involved. Marked decreases in TBC1D25 levels occurred in cardiomyocytes suffering hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury in vitro and myocardium tissues of rats with MIR injury in vivo. Cardiomyocytes overexpressing TBC1D25 were protected from apoptosis and inflammation triggered by H/R, whereas TBC1D25-deficient cardiomyocytes were more sensitive to H/R injury. Intramyocardial injection of recombinant adenovirus expressing TBC1D25 into rats reduced infarct size and cardiac injury triggered by MIR injury accompanied by decreased myocardial apoptosis and inflammation. A subsequent mechanistic investigation revealed that the signaling cascade of transforming growth factor-β-activated kinase 1 (TAK1)-c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)/p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activated under H/R or MIR conditions was markedly restrained by TBC1D25 overexpression. Moreover, TAK1 blockade remarkably reversed the TBC1D25 deficiency-induced aggravating effect on H/R injury. The work concludes that TBC1D25 protects against MIR injury through action on the TAK1-JNK/p38 MAPK signaling cascade. This work suggests TBC1D25 as a potential therapeutic target for MIR injury., (© 2023. The Society for In Vitro Biology.)

Dezhou donkey is one of the excellent large donkey breeds in China. In our study, eight microsatellite markers were used to genotype from each of three populations of Chinese Dezhou donkeys: 67 individuals in Liaocheng (pop1), 103 individuals in Binzhou 1 (pop2), and 102 individuals in Binzhou 2 (pop3), in order to study the genetic diversity of these populations. A total of 213 alleles were detected, and the PIC results showed that eight loci were all highly polymorphic. The means of Ho and He of pop2 were the highest, which were 0.646 and 0.717, respectively. The PCoA analysis demonstrated that the samples from three conservation farms were mixed together. The phylogenetic tree showed that pop 2 and pop 3 were closely related. The phylogenetic tree results clustered that 272 donkeys were divided into six groups. AMOVA analysis showed that the genetic variation was mainly concentrated within the population and the genetic differentiation among the populations was low. Fst values between populations also indicated that genetic differentiation between populations was too small to be considered. This indicated a low probability of inbreeding within the population. And this also showed that the conservation and breeding of Dezhou donkeys in recent years have achieved excellent results. The investigation of genetic diversity in three Dezhou donkey original breeding farms can provide reference data for the selection and breeding of excellent breeds of Dezhou donkey., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

The outcome of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains poor due to few therapeutic options available and challenges with precision therapy to target each tumour's specific characteristics. In this study, a biologically meaningful patient stratification-prognostic model with therapeutic suggestion value based on tumor senescence was developed and validated in multiple independent cohorts. Further mechanistic investigation based on single-cell transcriptomic data and in vitro experiments revealed that complement derived from non-senescent tumor cells stimulates M1 differentiation and antigen presentation, while senescent tumor cells secrete CCL20 to favor immunosuppressive M2 polarization. Also, senescent phenotype depends on proteasome function, suggesting that high-risk, high-senescence patients may benefit from proteasome inhibitors, which reverse senescence-mediated resistance to conventional chemotherapy and improve outcome. In conclusion, the current study identified senescence as a tumor-specific, hazardous factor associated with immunosuppression in PDAC. Mechanistically, senescence abrogates complement-induced M1 activation and antigen presentation, and upregulates CCL20 to favor M2 polarization. The senescence-related risk model is prognostic and therapeutic-suggestive. In light of the reliance of senescent cells on proteasomal functions, proteasome inhibitors are promising agents for high-risk patients with senescent PDAC., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Wu, Han, Wu and Liu.)

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the effect of muscle-derived stem cell (MDSC) exosomes with overexpressed miR-214 on the regeneration and repair of rat sciatic nerve after crush injury and its molecular mechanism., Methods: First, primary MDSCs, Schwann cells (SCs) and dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons were isolated and cultured, and the characteristics of MDSCs-derived exosomes were identified by molecular biology and immunohistochemistry. NC mimics and miR-214 mimics were transfected to obtain exo-NC and exo-miR-214. An in vitro co-culture system was established to determine the effect of exo-miR-214 on nerve regeneration. The restoration of sciatic nerve function of rats by exo-miR-214 was evaluated by walking track analysis. Immunofluorescence for NF and S100 was used to detect the regeneration of axon and myelin sheath in injured nerve. The Starbase database was used to analyze the downstream target genes of miR-214. QRT-PCR and dual luciferase reporter assays were used to validate the miR-214 and PTEN interaction relationship. And the expression of the JAK2/STAT3 pathway-related proteins in sciatic nerve tissues were detected by western blot., Results: The above experiments showed that MDSCs-derived exosomes with overexpressed miR-214 was found to promote the proliferation and migration of SCs, increase the expression of neurotrophic factors, promote axon extension of DRG neurons and positively affect the recovery of nerve structure and function. In addition, PTEN was a target gene of miR-214. Exo-miR-214 can significantly inhibit the expression level of PTEN, increase the protein expression levels of p-JAK2 and p-STAT3 and the ratio of p-JAK2/JAK2 and p-STAT3/STAT3, also MDSCs-derived exosomes with overexpressed miR-214 can reduce the occurrence of denervated muscle atrophy., Conclusion: In summary, the MDSCs-derived exosomes with overexpressed miR-214 is involved in peripheral nerve regeneration and repair in rats after sciatic nerve crush injury to activate the JAK2/ STAT3 pathway by targeting PTEN., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Zeng, Bian, Liu, Li, Ren, Zhang, Zhang, Tegeleqi, He, Guan, Gao, Huang and Liu.)

Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) has been identified as a crucial factor in determining the responsiveness to immunotherapy. Produced primarily by natural killer (NK) and T cells, IFN-γ promotes activation, maturation, proliferation, cytokine expression, and effector function in immune cells, while simultaneously inducing antigen presentation, growth arrest, and apoptosis in tumor cells. However, tumor cells can hijack the IFN-γ signaling pathway to mount IFN-γ resistance: rather than increasing antigenicity and succumbing to death, tumor cells acquire stemness characteristics and express immunosuppressive molecules to defend against antitumor immunity. In this review, we summarize the potential mechanisms of IFN-γ resistance occurring at two critical stages: disrupted signal transduction along the IFNG/IFNGR/JAK/STAT pathway, or preferential expression of specific interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs). Elucidating the molecular mechanisms through which tumor cells develop IFN-γ resistance help identify promising therapeutic targets to improve immunotherapy, with broad application value in conjugation with targeted, antibody or cellular therapies., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Han, Wu and Liu.)

A multiplexed enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) that simultaneously measures antibody binding to multiple antigens can extend the impact of serosurveillance studies, particularly if the assay approaches the simplicity, robustness, and accuracy of a conventional single-antigen ELISA. Here, we report on the development of multiSero, an open-source multiplex ELISA platform for measuring antibody responses to viral infection. Our assay consists of three parts: (1) an ELISA against an array of proteins in a 96-well format; (2) automated imaging of each well of the ELISA array using an open-source plate reader; and (3) automated measurement of optical densities for each protein within the array using an open-source analysis pipeline. We validated the platform by comparing antibody binding to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) antigens in 217 human sera samples, showing high sensitivity (0.978), specificity (0.977), positive predictive value (0.978), and negative predictive value (0.977) for classifying seropositivity, a high correlation of multiSero determined antibody titers with commercially available SARS-CoV-2 antibody tests, and antigen-specific changes in antibody titer dynamics upon vaccination. The open-source format and accessibility of our multiSero platform can contribute to the adoption of multiplexed ELISA arrays for serosurveillance studies, for SARS-CoV-2 and other pathogens of significance.

Background: Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a special type of thyroid carcinoma derived from the C cell of the thyroid gland. Because of the poor prognosis of MTC, a large number of studies on MTC have been conducted in the last 10 years. To better comprehend, it is necessary to clarify and define the dominant countries, organizations, core journals, important authors, and their cumulative research contributions, as well as the cooperative relationships between them., Method: English publications with article type article or review about MTC from January 2012 to December 2021 was retrieved from Web of Science core collection, and VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and Microsoft Excel were applied for bibliometric study., Result: A total of 1208 articles and reviews were included in this study. The 1208 papers were written by 6364 authors from 1734 organizations in 67 countries, published in 408 journals, and cited 24118 references from 3562 journals. The number of publications was essentially flat from 2012-2021, with the largest proportion of publications coming from the U.S., followed by Italy and China. Thyroid was the most productive journal, and Journal of clinical endocrinology & metabolism was the most cited journal. University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center was the most productive institution and Luca Giovanella, was the most productive author. Diagnostic tools, surgical treatment, non-surgical treatment, genetics and relationship with other endocrine diseases were the main research interests in this field. Prognosis has been a cutting-edge topic since 2017., Conclusion: As a thyroid cancer with poor prognosis, MTC has received continuous attention in recent years. Current MTC studies mainly focused on disease intervention, mechanism research and prognosis. The main point of this study is to provide an overview of the development process and hot spots of MTC in the last decade. These might provide ideas for further research in the MTC field., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Li, Wang, Zhao, Li and Liu.)

Background: Previous studies have shown that the protein kinase cGMP-dependent 2 (PRKG2) gene is associated with dwarfism in humans, dogo Argentines, and Angus cattle, as well as with height and osteoblastogenesis in humans. Therefore, the PRKG2 gene was used as the target gene to explore whether this gene is associated with several thoracolumbar vertebrae and carcass traits in Dezhou donkeys., Results: In this study, fifteen SNPs were identified by targeted sequencing, all of which were located in introns of the PRKG2 gene. Association analysis illustrated that the g.162153251 G > A, g.162156524 C > T, g.162158453 C > T and, g.162163775 T > G were significantly different from carcass weight. g.162166224 G > A, g.162166654 T > A, g.162167165 C > A, g.162167314 A > C and, g.162172653 G > C were significantly associated with the number of thoracic vertebrae. g.162140112 A > G was significantly associated with the number and the length of lumbar vertebrae, and g.162163775 T > G was significantly associated with the total number of thoracolumbar vertebrae., Conclusion: Overall, the results of this study suggest that PRKG2 gene polymorphism can be used as a molecular marker to breed high-quality Dezhou donkeys., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

The identification and preservation of parathyroid glands (PGs) during thyroid surgery can be challenging. Many techniques have been developed to help surgeons find PGs. We have developed a novel mitoxantrone hydrochloride injection that can be used for lymphatic targeting. After local application during surgery, mitoxantrone hydrochloride injection for tracing (MHI) helps surgeons better identify and preserve PGs and helps pathologists find more lymph nodes. We conducted an open-label, multicenter, randomized clinical trial (CTR20171137) in six centers in China from 08/2017 to 12/2018. Patients with thyroid carcinoma were randomized to the MHI group or the control group. All patients received total thyroidectomy and bilateral central compartment lymph node dissection. The primary outcomes were the PG resection rate and lymph node staining rate. The full analysis set (FAS) included 461 patients, of which 228 were assigned to the MHI group, and 233 were assigned to the control group. The PG resection rates of the MHI group and the control group were 6.6% (15/228) and 26.6% (62/233), respectively, with a significant difference (P < 0.001). No PGs were stained blue with MHI. The central lymph nodes were stained blue with MHI, and the staining rate was 90.5%±12.0%. More lymph nodes were detected in the MHI group than in the control group (13.0±7.3 vs. 10.1±6.4 nodes/patient, P < 0.001). No adverse events related to MHI were observed. MHI is a safe and effective tracer that may help to preserve PGs and identify more central lymph nodes in patients with thyroid cancer., Competing Interests: None., (AJCR Copyright © 2022.)

Purpose: Hemithyroidectomy is a valid operation to retain functional contralateral thyroid lobe that is indicated for a variety of thyroid diseases. This study aimed at determination of the risk factors for thyroid hormone replacement following hemithyroidectomy and to develop a predictive nomogram., Methods: Data of patients treated by hemithyroidectomy for benign thyroid disease between January 2015 and January 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Baseline characteristics, surgery-related variables, and preoperative and postoperative thyroid function of patients were collected from the case records and compared between patients with postoperative euthyroidism and patients with postoperative hypothyroidism. Postoperative euthyroidism patients without thyroid hormone replacement were compared to those who developed postoperative hypothyroidism with thyroid hormone replacement. The factors associated with thyroid hormone replacement were used to construct a binomial logistic-regression model and visualized as a predictive nomogram to evaluate the risk of thyroid hormone replacement following hemithyroidectomy., Results: Of the 378 patients (74% female) included in the study, 110 (29.1%) developed postoperative hypothyroidism. Preoperative serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) > 2.172 μIU/mL was identified as an independent risk factor for postoperative hypothyroidism (odds ratio [OR] = 8.02; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.87-13.20; P < 0.001). Of 110 patients with postoperative hypothyroidism, 56 (50.9%) received thyroid hormone replacement. Unilateral thyroid nodule and preoperative serum TSH > 2.172 μIU/mL were independent predictors of postoperative thyroid hormone replacement (P = 0.01, and P < 0.001, respectively). Temporary subclinical hypothyroidism occurred in 12 patients; all 12 reverted to euthyroid state without thyroid hormone replacement. The discriminative effect of the binomial regression model was proved reliable by the Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test (P = 0.503), and predictive ability of the nomogram was satisfactory with a C-index of 0.833., Conclusions: Hypothyroidism is common after hemithyroidectomy, and almost half of the patients will need thyroid hormone replacement. Elevated preoperative serum TSH level and unilateral thyroid nodule were independent predictors of thyroid hormone replacement following hemithyroidectomy. The predictive nomogram could be a useful tool for clinical practice., (© 2021. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Urbanization level is an important indicator of socioeconomic development, and projecting its dynamics is fundamental for studies related to global socioeconomic and climate change. This paper aims to update the projections of global urbanization from 2015 to 2100 under the Shared Socioeconomic Pathways by using the logistic fitting model and iteratively identifying reference countries. Based on historical urbanization level database from the World Urbanization Prospects, projected urbanization levels and uncertainties are provided for 204 countries and areas every five years. The 2010-2100 year-by-year projected urbanization levels and uncertainties based on the annual historical data from the World Bank (WB) for 188 of countries and areas are also provided. The projections based on the two datasets were compared and the latter were validated using the historical values of the WB for the years 2010-2018. The updated dataset of urbanization level is relevant for understanding future socioeconomic development, its implications for climate change and policy planning., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn) is a Gram-negative oral commensal, prevalent in various human diseases. It is unknown how this common commensal converts to a rampant pathogen. We report that Fn secretes an adhesin (FadA) with amyloid properties via a Fap2-like autotransporter to enhance its virulence. The extracellular FadA binds Congo Red, Thioflavin-T, and antibodies raised against human amyloid β42. Fn produces amyloid-like FadA under stress and disease conditions, but not in healthy sites or tissues. It functions as a scaffold for biofilm formation, confers acid tolerance, and mediates Fn binding to host cells. Furthermore, amyloid-like FadA induces periodontal bone loss and promotes CRC progression in mice, with virulence attenuated by amyloid-binding compounds. The uncleaved signal peptide of FadA is required for the formation and stability of mature amyloid FadA fibrils. We propose a model in which hydrophobic signal peptides serve as "hooks" to crosslink neighboring FadA filaments to form a stable amyloid-like structure. Our study provides a potential mechanistic link between periodontal disease and CRC and suggests anti-amyloid therapies as possible interventions for Fn-mediated disease processes., (© 2021 The Authors.)

Papillary carcinoma is the most common type of thyroid cancer responsible for significant number of mortalities across the globe. This study was conducted to investigate the role and therapeutic implications of microRNA-7 in human papillary carcinoma. Gene expression analysis was carried out through quantitative real time PCR method. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was performed to determine the cell proliferation. Clonogenic assay was used to assess the colony forming ability of cancer cells. Cell apoptosis was analyzed by 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI), acridine orange/ethidium bromide (AO/EB) and annexin V/PI staining assays. Migration of cancer cells was estimated through scratch heal assay and cell invasion was determined by transwell assay method. Western blotting was done to examine the protein expression. Xenografted mice models were employed to examine the effects of miR-7 overexpression in vivo . Results showed miR-7 to be significantly ( P < 0.05) repressed in papillary carcinoma. Cancer cell proliferation was inhibited by miR-7 through induction of apoptotic cell death as revealed by DAPI, AO/EB and annexin V/PI staining assays. The colony forming potential of cancer cells also decreased under miR-7 overexpression. miR-7 overexpression also inhibited the migration and invasion of cancer cells. Bcl-2 was identified as the intracellular target of miR-7 and regulatory effects of miR-7 were seen to be exerted through translation repression of Bcl-2. The results of xenograft study revealed miR-7 overexpression significantly ( P < 0.05) suppressed the growth of the tumor in vivo . The results point towards the therapeutic implications of miR-7 in the management of papillary carcinoma., Competing Interests: None., (AJTR Copyright © 2020.)

Many cancer cells critically rely on antioxidant systems for cell survival and are vulnerable to further oxidative impairment triggered by agents generating reactive oxygen species (ROS). Therefore, the classical design and development of inhibitors that target antioxidant defense enzymes such as thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) can be a promising anticancer strategy. Herein, it is shown that a gold(I) complex containing an oleanolic acid derivative (4 b) induces apoptosis of ovarian cancer A2780 cells by activating endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS). It can inhibit TrxR enzyme activity to elevate ROS, mediate ERS and mitochondrial dysfunction, and finally leads to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis of A2780 cells. Notably, this complex inhibits A2780 xenograft tumor growth accompanied by increased ERS level and decreased TrxR activity in tumor tissues., (© 2020 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.)

Ojective: To analyze the cinicopathological features, treatments, and prognosis of patients with papillary TDCa., Method: A retrospective study was conducted of the medical records of our hospital for cases of TDCa. General clinical information including diagnostic criteria and treatments was obtained and analyzed. A literature review was also conducted., Result: There were 160 cases of thyroglossal duct anomalies hospitalized in Peking Union Medical College Hospital in the past 20 years, and TDCa was diagnosed in 3 (1. 88%) cases. All 3 cases underwent local radical resections, and papillary TDCa was diagnosed based on the pathology examination. Selective neck dissection was chosen in one which was confirmed with cervical lymphatic metastasis. All patients were followed up with no recurrences or metastasis., Conclusion: The incidence of TDCa is very low and the pathology examination is the only way to confirm the diagnosis. Surgery, especially Sistrunk's procedure, is the treatment of choice, with low complications and recurrence. In the presence of cervical lymphadenopathy, selective neck dissection should be considered.

Objectives: To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of open preperitoneal herniorraphy comparing with traditional Lichtenstein tension-free herniorraphy on the surgical treatment of inguinal hernia., Methods: The clinical data of 249 patients with inguinal hernia admitted from October 2008 to December 2013 were reviewed retrospectively.Eighty-three patients received preperitoneal herniorraphy (preperitoneal group), there were 76 male and 7 female patients with a mean age of (70 ± 10) years.One hundred and seventy-three patients underwent Lichtenstein procedure (Lichtenstein group), there were 162 male and 11 femal patients with a mean age of (60 ± 16) years. The peri-operative performance, recurrence rate and postoperative morbidities of the patients underwent preperitoneal herniorraphy and traditional Lichtenstein herniorraphy were analyzed., Results: The operation time of the preperitoneal group (60 ± 11) minutes was significantly shorter than the Lichtenstein group (63 ± 8) minutes (t = -2.16, P = 0.032). The preperitoneal group showed significantly earlier out-of-bed activity ((6.2 ± 1.8) hours) than the Lichtenstein group ((15.0 ± 2.8) hours) (t = -13.2, P = 0.000). The visual analogue scale score on 24 hours postoperative was also lower in the preperitoneal group (4.0 ± 0.9) than in the Lichtenstein group (4.6 ± 1.4) (t = -4.11, P = 0.000). The two groups had no significant difference on the cost. There was one incision infection in preperitoneal group (1.20%).Four fat liquefaction (2.31%) and one patch rejection (0.58%) were found in Lichtenstein group. The incidence of complication of the two groups had no significant difference (P > 0.05). All the patients were followed up for 6 to 36 months, and there was no recurrence among all these patients., Conclusions: There is no significant difference on the safety and effectiveness between preperitoneal herniorraphy and traditional Lichtenstein procedure on inguinal hernia.Open preperitoneal herniorraphy and can be applied for surgical treatment of recurrent or femoral hernia.

Objective: To investigate the clinical feature and treatment strategy of primary pancreatic lymphoma., Methods: Thirty-nine cases of primary pancreatic lymphoma reported in China were reviewed retrospectively with their clinical characters, treatment, and outcome, as well as a literature review of worldwide reports., Results: The major clinical presentations included discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen and jaundice without specificity. Only 2 cases were identified correctly by computed tomography, and 5 cases obtained a positive finding in a biopsy before operation. Thirty-two patients accepted operation; 13 pancreatoduodenectomy and 6 distal pancreatectomy were performed. Thirty-one patients accepted postoperative chemotherapy. Until now, 26 patients are still alive at a range of 3 to 72 months; 5 patients died at 5 to 24 months after operation. Literature review revealed 85 additional cases of pancreatic lymphoma in English reports. Their diagnosis and treatment methods varied., Conclusions: Primary pancreatic lymphoma was misdiagnosed as pancreatic adenocarcinoma frequently. Fine needle aspiration biopsy is the most valuable method in preoperative diagnosis. The cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone scheme was still the most commonly used regimen of chemotherapy. The value of surgery and radiotherapy remains controversial; an operation combining chemotherapy seems to be an appropriate method of treatment for a patient in whom malignancy cannot be ruled out.