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Background: It remains undetermined whether preoperative computed tomography (CT)-guided hookwire localization would result in elevated risk of tumor spread through air spaces (STAS) in stage IA lung adenocarcinoma. Methods: A total of 1836 patients who underwent lobectomy were included. To eliminate the potential impact of confounding factors on producing STAS, propensity score–matching (PSM) was used to create two balanced subgroups stratified by implementation of hookwire localization. We also introduced an external cohort including 1486 patients to explore the effect of hookwire localization on the incidence of STAS and patient survival after sublobar resection (SR). For proactive simulation of hookwire localization, 20 consecutive lobectomy specimens of p-stage IA lung adenocarcinoma were selected. Results: Ex vivo tests revealed that mechanical artifacts presenting as spreading through a localizer surface (STALS) could be induced by hookwire localization but be distinguished by CD68 and AE1/3 antibody-based immunohistochemistry. The distance of STALS dissemination tended to be shorter compared with real STAS (P = 0.000). After PSM, implementation of hookwire localization was not associated with elevated STAS incidence, nor worse survival in p-stage IA patients undergoing lobectomy irrespective of STAS. Conclusions: CT-guided hookwire localization might induce mechanical artifacts presenting as STALS which could be distinguished by immunohistochemistry, but would not affect survival in p-stage IA disease. Surgeons can be less apprehensive about performing hookwire localization in relation to STAS on stage IA disease suitable for SR.

The power production, fuel consumption and revenue of any gas turbine (GT) power plant are greatly affected by variations in ambient conditions (entering air into the compressor). This paper simulates and reports the power output and efficiency of a gas turbine-based power plant (SGT-750 SIEMENSE) using around 8000 h-by-hour yearly weather data of two regions of Australia (north and south) without pre-cooling, with sole M−cycle pre-cooling and finally with an innovative hybrid pre-cooler. The hybrid pre-cooler consists of a Maisotsenko indirect evaporative cooler (M−cycle) and an absorption chiller (ABC). Briefly, the results indicate that power raise of the GT plant using the M−cycle IEC alone is about 2 % in temperate regions and 4 % in hot regions, while it would be about 4 % and 6 % respectively if the hybrid pre-cooler is used. Reducing the inlet air temperature by 8–10 °C increases the generated power of a GT with pre-cooler by 8–9 %.

Introduction: Transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) has been proposed for postoperative urinary retention (POUR). This meta-analysis evaluated the effect of TEAS in preventing POUR. Methods: Databases were searched until February 6, 2023. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) about TEAS for preventing POUR were included. The primary concern was the incidence of POUR, with post-void residual urine volume as a secondary outcome. Results: Fourteen studies with 2865 participants were identified. TEAS reduced the incidence of POUR (RR = 0.44, 95%CI = 0.33 to 0.58, P

Background: Reconstruction of large scalp defects after tumor resection is common and challenging. Free skin grafting or free flap transfer is always performed. However, these techniques can result in poor functional and cosmetic outcomes. Methods: In the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, 35 patients underwent jigsaw puzzle flap procedures based on a free-style perforator to repair large scalp defects after tumor resection from May 2013 to November 2022. The key to this procedure was to divide a large defect into several smaller parts that correspond to adjacent free-style perforators around the scalp defect. The free-style perforator flaps were designed in different ways, such as propeller flaps, rotation flaps, and V-Y advancement flaps, which were pedicled with free-style perforators. All of the small flaps were then mobilized to the defect and sutured to each other to create a new, large jigsaw puzzle-like flap to cover the large scalp defect. Finally, all the donor sites were closed directly. Results: Overall, 35 patients were treated. The average defect size was 72 ​cm2 (range, 25–91 ​cm2). All flaps had a satisfactory appearance after follow-up periods of 6 months–10 years. Local tumor recurrence occurred in one case. Conclusion: The application of a jigsaw puzzle flap based on a free-style perforator is a suitable option for the reconstruction of large scalp defects after resection, yielding satisfactory functional and cosmetic results.

Abstract Currently, there is an increasing amount of evidence indicating that exosomes and the miRNAs they contain are crucial players in various biological processes. However, the role of exosomes and miRNAs in snake venom during the envenomation process remains largely unknown. In this study, fresh venom from Naja atra of different ages (2-month-old, 1-year-old, and 5-year-old) was collected, and exosomes were isolated through ultracentrifugation. The study found that exosomes with inactivated proteins and enzymes can still cause symptoms similar to cobra envenomation, indicating that substances other than proteins and enzymes in exosomes may also play an essential role in cobra envenomation. Furthermore, the expression profiles of isolated exosome miRNAs were analyzed. The study showed that a large number of miRNAs were co-expressed and abundant in cobra venom exosomes (CV-exosomes) of different ages, including miR-2904, which had high expression abundance and specific sequences. The specific miR-2094 derived from CV-exosomes (CV-exo-miR-2904) was overexpressed both in vitro and in vivo. As a result, CV-exo-miR-2904 induced symptoms similar to cobra envenomation in mice and caused liver damage, demonstrating that it plays a crucial role in cobra envenomation. These results reveal that CV-exosomes and the miRNAs they contain play a significant regulatory role in cobra envenomation. Our findings provide new insights for the treatment of cobra bites and the development of snake venom-based medicines. Graphic abstract

Abstract Background Limited data are available on renal complications in patients with acute fulminant myocarditis (AFM) receiving venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) support in China. To evaluate the impact of renal complications on outcomes in adult patients with AFM supported with VA-ECMO. Methods Data were extracted from Chinese Society of ExtraCorporeal Life Support (CSECLS) Registry database. Adult patients who were diagnosed with AFM receiving VA-ECMO support in the database were included. The primary outcome was 30-day mortality in patients with AFM supported with VA-ECMO. Logistic regression model was used to examine the impact of renal complications on 30-day mortality by adjusting confounders. Results A total of 202 patients were included. The median age was 38 years (IQR 29–48) and males (n = 103) represented 51.0% of the total accounted patients. The median ECMO duration was 142.9 h (IQR 112.1–188.8 h). 178 (88.1%) patients weaned from ECMO and 156 (71.9%) patients survived. 94(46.5%) patients developed renal complications while on ECMO course. Patients with renal complications had higher 30-day mortality (40.7% (37 of 94) vs 8.3% (9 of 108), P

Abstract Amyloid-like assembly is not only associated with pathological events, but also leads to the development of novel nanomaterials with unique properties. Herein, using Fmoc diphenylalanine peptide (Fmoc–F–F) as a minimalistic model, we found that histidine can modulate the assembly behavior of Fmoc–F–F and induce enzyme-like catalysis. Specifically, the presence of histidine rearranges the β structure of Fmoc–F–F to assemble nanofilaments, resulting in the formation of active site to mimic peroxidase-like activity that catalyzes ROS generation. A similar catalytic property is also observed in Aβ assembled filaments, which is correlated with the spatial proximity between intermolecular histidine and F-F. Notably, the assembled Aβ filaments are able to induce cellular ROS elevation and damage neuron cells, providing an insight into the pathological relationship between Aβ aggregation and Alzheimer’s disease. These findings highlight the potential of histidine as a modulator in amyloid-like assembly of peptide nanomaterials exerting enzyme-like catalysis.

Abstract Background Coil embolization is a common method for treating unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIAs). To effectively perform coil embolization for UIAs, clinicians must undergo extensive training with the assistance of senior physicians over an extended period. This study aimed to establish a deep-learning system for measuring the morphological features of UIAs and help the surgical planning of coil embolization for UIAs. Methods Preoperative computational tomography angiography (CTA) data and surgical data from UIA patients receiving coil embolization in our medical institution were retrospectively reviewed. A convolutional neural network (CNN) model was trained on the preoperative CTA data, and the morphological features of UIAs were measured automatically using this CNN model. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was utilized to examine the similarity between the morphologies measured by the CNN model and those determined by experienced clinicians. A deep neural network model to determine the diameter of first coil was further established based on the CNN model within the derivation set (75% of all patients) using neural factorization machines (NFM) model and was validated using a validation set (25% of all patients). The general match ratio (the difference was within ± 1 mm) between the predicted diameter of first coil by model and that used in practical scenario was calculated. Results One-hundred fifty-three UIA patients were enrolled in this study. The CNN model could diagnose UIAs with an accuracy of 0.97. The performance of this CNN model in measuring the morphological features of UIAs (i.e., size, height, neck diameter, dome diameter, and volume) was comparable to the accuracy of senior clinicians (all ICC > 0.85). The diameter of first coil predicted by the model established based on CNN model and the diameter of first coil used actually exhibited a high general match ratio (0.90) within the derivation set. Moreover, the model performed well in recommending the diameter of first coil within the validation set (general match ratio as 0.91). Conclusion This study presents a deep-learning system which can help to improve surgical planning of coil embolization for UIAs.

Abstract Research on language teaching quality has certainly stood out enough to be noticed as the momentum higher school teaching change proceeds to extend and develop. The way to further developing language teaching quality is to further develop teaching quality, and educator assessment is a significant instrument for doing as such. Accordingly, school administration necessitates the turn of events and refinement of a framework for assessing language teaching quality. Thus, hybrid learning technique for assessing the teaching quality of high school instructors should be created. We present an interesting model for assessing the quality of homeroom teaching involving artificial intelligence innovation in high schools, which depends on better hereditary calculations and neural networks. The fundamental thought is to utilize higher request factual elements (skewness, change, second and kurtosis), even vulnerability, Improved Independent Component Analysis (IICA), Holo-entropy based highlights to remove the underlying loads and limits of gathered data. The teaching quality assessment results were enhanced by further developing the neural network’s forecast accuracy and intermingling speed, bringing about a more down to earth plot for assessing high school language teaching quality. We have led simulation investigations and comparative analysis utilizing the Bi-directional Long Short Term Memory (Bi-LSTM) and Convolutional Neural Network (ConvNet/CNN) models. Then, an education quality assessment framework is laid out by hybrid optimizing model parameters which is Seagull Optimization Algorithm (SOA) and Red Colobuses Monkey (RCM).

In this work, the different proportions (0~2.0%, wt%) of chito-oligosaccharides were added into the low gluten wheat flour to prepare the crisp cookie, and the variations of flour properties, dough rheological properties, crisp cookie quality and antioxidation during storage (35 ℃, 28 d) were also investiated to evaluate the potential application of chito-oligosaccharides in flour food. Results showed that the addition of chito-oligosaccharide extended the formation time and stability time of dough but reduced the water absorption, weakening degree, gluten strength and viscoelasticity. Moreover, from the texture measurement, the crisp cookies containing 1.5% chito-oligosaccharide diplayed the lowest hardness (9422.80 gf) and chewability (2816.95 gf), which was accordance to the result of crisp taste test. However, color of the samples was gradually deepened with the increasing chito-oligosaccharide. In the sensory experiment, when the addition amount was 1.0%, the texture characteristics of cookies were not significantly different from those with 1.5% (P>0.05), and the color was golden with the highest sensory score. Therefore, the cooky with 1.0% chito-oligosaccharide showed the overall higher acceptability of consumers than that of others. Remarkably, the acid value, peroxide value and malondialdehyde (TBA) of the cookies with chito-oligosaccharide were lower than those of control group (P

Abstract Background Preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) was demonstrated to be superior to conventional IVF in reducing the incidence of miscarriage and abnormal offspring after the first embryo transfer (ET). PGT-A requires several embryo trophectoderm cells, but its negative impacts on embryo development and long-term influence on the health conditions of conceived children have always been a concern. As an alternative, noninvasive PGT-A (niPGT-A) approaches using spent blastocyst culture medium (SBCM) achieved comparable accuracy with PGT-A in several pilot studies. The main objective of this study is to determine whether noninvasive embryo viability testing (niEVT) results in better clinical outcomes than conventional IVF after the first embryo transfer. Furthermore, we further investigated whether niEVT results in higher the live birth rate between women with advanced maternal age (AMA, > 35 years old) and young women or among patients for whom different fertilization protocols are adopted. Methods This study will be a double-blind, multicenter, randomized controlled trial (RCT) studying patients of different ages (20–43 years) undergoing different fertilization protocols (in vitro fertilization [IVF] or intracytoplasmic sperm injection [ICSI]). We will enroll 1140 patients at eight reproductive medical centers over 24 months. Eligible patients should have at least two good-quality blastocysts (better than grade 4 CB). The primary outcome will be the live birth rate of the first embryo transfer (ET). Secondary outcomes will include the clinical pregnancy rate, ongoing pregnancy rate, miscarriage rate, cumulative live birth rate, ectopic pregnancy rate, and time to pregnancy. Discussion In this study, patients who undergo noninvasive embryo viability testing (niEVT) will be compared to women treated by conventional IVF. We will determine the effects on the pregnancy rate, miscarriage rate, and live birth rate and adverse events. We will also investigate whether there is any difference in clinical outcomes among patients with different ages and fertilization protocols (IVF/ICSI). This trial will provide clinical evidence of the effect of noninvasive embryo viability testing on the clinical outcomes of the first embryo transfer. Trial registration Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR) Identifier: ChiCTR2100051408. 9 September 2021.

Abstract Objective Differential diagnosis between epileptic seizures and psychogenic nonepileptic events (PNEEs) is a worldwide problem for neurologists. The present study aims to identify important characteristics from body fluid tests and develop diagnostic models based on them. Methods This is a register‐based observational study in patients with a diagnosis of epilepsy or PNEEs at West China Hospital of Sichuan University. Data from body fluid tests between 2009 and 2019 were used as a training set. We constructed models with a random forest approach in eight training subsets divided by sex and categories of tests, including electrolyte, blood cell, metabolism, and urine tests. Then, we collected data prospectively from patients between 2020 and 2022 to validate our models and calculated the relative importance of characteristics in robust models. Selected characteristics were finally analyzed with multiple logistic regression to establish nomograms. Results A total of 388 patients, including 218 with epilepsy and 170 with PNEEs, were studied. The AUROCs of random forest models of electrolyte and urine tests in the validation phase achieved 80.0% and 79.0%, respectively. Carbon dioxide combining power, anion gap, potassium, calcium, and chlorine in electrolyte tests and specific gravity, pH, and conductivity in urine tests were selected for the logistic regression analysis. C (ROC) of the electrolyte and urine diagnostic nomograms achieved 0.79 and 0.85, respectively. Significance The application of routine indicators of serum and urine may help in the more accurate identification of epileptic and PNEEs.

Abstract Objective This study aimed to investigate the proportion of patent foramen ovale (PFO) in people with epilepsy (PWE) compared to controls without epilepsy and to assess whether PWEs with and without PFO exhibit distinctive clinical features. Methods This is a case–control study conducted in a hospital. Contrast transthoracic echocardiography with a venous microbubble bolus and provocative maneuvers (Valsalva and coughing) were used to identify PFO and its right‐to‐left shunt (RLS) among 741 PWEs and 800 controls without epilepsy. The risk of having PFO in PWEs was explored using multiple matching methods and logistic regression with adjusted congenital factors that may affect the occurrence of PFO. Results The proportion of PFO in PWEs and controls was 39.00% and 24.25%, respectively. After 1:1 propensity score matching, the risk of suffering PFO in PWEs was 1.71 times (OR, 1.71; 95% CI, 1.24–2.36) higher than that in controls. PWEs also had a higher risk of having a high RLS grade (βepilepsy = 0.390, P

In March 2018, the US used an immense trade deficit as an excuse to provoke trade friction with China. This study uses the EGARCH model and event study methods to study the impact of the major risk event of Sino-US trade friction on soybean futures markets in China and the United States. Results indicate that the Sino-US trade friction weakened the return spillover effect between the soybean futures markets in China and the US, and significantly increased market volatilities. As the scale of additional tariffs increased, the volatility of the Chinese soybean futures market declined; however, the volatility of the US soybean futures market did not weaken. In addition, expanding the sources of soybean imports helped ease the impact of tariffs on China’s soybean futures market, while the decline in US soybean exports to China intensified the volatility of the US soybean futures market. In addition, while the release of multiple tariff increases has had a short-term impact on the returns of soybean futures markets, the impact of trade friction has gradually decreased.

Abstract Background Rice is the second-largest food crop in the world and vulnerable to bacterial leaf streak disease. A thorough comprehension of the genetic foundation of agronomic traits was essential for effective implementation of molecular marker-assisted selection. Results Our study aimed to evaluate the vulnerability of rice to bacterial leaf streak disease (BLS) induced by the gram-negative bacterium Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzicola (Xoc). In order to accomplish this, we first analyzed the population structure of 747 accessions and subsequently assessed their phenotypes 20 days after inoculation with a strain of Xoc, GX01. We conducted genome-wide association studies (GWAS) on a population of 747 rice accessions, consisting of both indica and japonica subpopulations, utilizing phenotypic data on resistance to bacterial leaf streak (RBLS) and sequence data. We identified a total of 20 QTLs associated with RBLS in our analysis. Through the integration of linkage mapping, sequence analysis, haplotype analysis, and transcriptome analysis, we were able to identify five potential candidate genes (OsRBLS1—OsRBLS5) that possess the potential to regulate RBLS in rice. In order to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the genetic mechanism behind resistance to bacterial leaf streak, we conducted tests on these genes in both the indica and japonica subpopulations, ultimately identifying superior haplotypes that suggest the potential utilization of these genes in breeding disease-resistant rice varieties. Conclusions The findings of our study broaden our comprehension of the genetic mechanisms underlying RBLS in rice and offer significant insights that can be applied towards genetic improvement and breeding of disease-resistant rice in rapidly evolving environmental conditions.

Abstract To explore the effect of IL-6 on the activity and secretory function of B cells and analyze its effect on clinical indicators and efficacy in wAIHA patients. This study included 25 hemolytic wAIHA patients, 13 remission patients, and 10 HCs. Plasma levels of various cytokines were detected using CBA. PBMCs were extracted from 12 hemolytic wAIHA patients and divided into three wells, stimulation with IL-6 and IL-6 + tocilizumab, the blank control wells were also set. After 48 h of in vitro cell culture, percentage of CD5+CD80+, CD5–CD80+,CD5+CD86+,CD5–CD86+,CD5+IL-10+,CD5–IL-10+B cells were determined by flow-cytometry. Plasma levels of IL-6 and IL-10 in hemolytic episode group were significantly higher than that in HCs group (p = 0.0243; p = 0.0214). RBC and Hb levels were negatively correlated with IL-6 levels in wAIHA patients, while LDH levels were positively correlated.Therapeutic effects of glucocorticoid and duration of efficacy were also significantly correlated with IL-6 levels in wAIHA patients. After 48 h in vitro cell culture, percentages of CD80+/CD5+CD19+and CD80+/CD5–CD19+ cells in the IL-6 stimulation group were higher than those in blank control group (p = 0.0019; p = 0.0004), while CD86+/CD5+ CD19+ and CD86+/CD5–CD19+ cells were not statistically different before and after IL-6 stimulation. Percentage of IL-10+/CD5+ CD19+ cells in IL-6 stimulation group was lower than that in blank control (p = 0.0017) and IL-6 + toc (p = 0.0117) group. Percentage of IL-10+/CD5– CD19+cells in the IL-6 stimulation group was lower than that in the blank control group (p = 0.0223). Plasma levels of IL-6 were significantly elevated in hemolytic wAIHA patients and correlated with clinical indicators and efficacy. IL-6 promotes the activation of B cells. Although the results were not statistically significant, IL-6R antagonist tocilizumab may hopefully become a targeted therapy for wAIHA patients.

Abstract Background Previous studies on thoracolumbar fractures with neurological symptoms have focused on how to achieve satisfactory fracture reduction, adequate nerve decompression, and stable spinal alignment. With the development of the minimally invasive spine surgery technique, achieving satisfactory treatment results and reducing iatrogenic trauma at the same time has become a new goal of spinal surgery. This research used percutaneous transpedicular screw distraction to partially reduce the fractured vertebrae, followed by completing nerve decompression and reducing residual displacement bone fragments with the assistance of the unilateral biportal endoscopic (UBE) technique to achieve full protection of bone-ligament tissue and obtain good clinical efficacy. Methods Guide wires were safely inserted into the fractured vertebra and adjacent upper and lower vertebra under the surveillance of anteroposterior and lateral X-ray fluoroscopy. Transpedicular screws were implanted via guide wires on the side with mild neurological deficits or bone fragment compression (the opposite side of the endoscopic operation). A titanium rod was installed and moderately distracted to reduce the fractured vertebra. Then, under the guidance of the endoscopic view, the laminectomy and ligamentum flavum resection were completed according to the position of the protruding bone fragment into the spinal canal, and the compressed dural sac or nerve root was fully exposed and decompressed. An L-shaped replacer was used to reduce residual bone fragments. The ipsilateral transpedicular screws and rod were installed and adjusted to match the contralateral side. The drainage tube was indwelled, and the incision was closed. The preoperative and postoperative images of the patients were evaluated, and the recovery of neurological symptoms was observed. Results Surgery was successfully completed on all six patients, and no intraoperative conversion to open surgery was performed. Postoperative images showed good reduction of the protruding bone fragment and good placement of all screws. At the last follow-up, the neurological symptoms of all patients returned to normal. Conclusion The UBE technique combined with percutaneous transpedicular screw fixation in the treatment of thoracolumbar fractures with neurological symptoms can effectively achieve the reduction of displaced bone fragments, improve damaged nerve function, stabilize spinal alignment, and protect the integrity of bone-ligament tissue.

Abstract Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most prevalent cancer of the mouth, characterised by rapid progression and poor prognosis. Hence, an urgent need exists for the development of predictive targets for early diagnosis, prognosis determination, and clinical therapy. Dysregulation of lymphoid enhancer-binding factor 1 (LEF1), an important transcription factor involved in the Wnt-β-catenin pathway, contributes to the poor prognosis of OSCC. Herein, we aimed to explore the correlation between LEF1 and histone lysine demethylase 4 A (KDM4A). Results show that the KDM4A complex is recruited by LEF1 and specifically binds the LATS2 promoter region, thereby inhibiting its expression, and consequently promoting cell proliferation and impeding apoptosis in OSCC. We also established NOD/SCID mouse xenograft models using CAL-27 cells to conduct an in vivo analysis of the roles of LEF1 and KDM4A in tumour growth, and our findings show that cells stably suppressing LEF1 or KDM4A have markedly decreased tumour-initiating capacity. Overall, the results of this study demonstrate that LEF1 plays a pivotal role in OSCC development and has potential to serve as a target for early diagnosis and treatment of OSCC.

Abstract Background Improving the accuracy of estimated fetal weight (EFW) calculation can contribute to decision-making for obstetricians and decrease perinatal complications. This study aimed to develop a deep neural network (DNN) model for EFW based on obstetric electronic health records. Methods This study retrospectively analyzed the electronic health records of pregnant women with live births delivery at the obstetrics department of International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital between January 2016 and December 2018. The DNN model was evaluated using Hadlock’s formula and multiple linear regression. Results A total of 34824 live births (23922 primiparas) from 49896 pregnant women were analyzed. The root-mean-square error of DNN model was 189.64 g (95% CI 187.95 g—191.16 g), and the mean absolute percentage error was 5.79% (95%CI: 5.70%—5.81%), significantly lower compared to Hadlock’s formula (240.36 g and 6.46%, respectively). By combining with previously unreported factors, such as birth weight of prior pregnancies, a concise and effective DNN model was built based on only 10 parameters. Accuracy rate of a new model increased from 76.08% to 83.87%, with root-mean-square error of only 243.80 g. Conclusions Proposed DNN model for EFW calculation is more accurate than previous approaches in this area and be adopted for better decision making related to fetal monitoring.

Unknown geology ahead of the tunnel boring machine (TBM) brings a large safety risk for tunnel construction. Seismic ahead-prospecting using TBM drilling noise as a source can achieve near-real-time detection, meeting the requirements of TBM rapid drilling. Seismic wavefield retrieval is the key data processing step for the efficient utilization of TBM drilling noise. The traditional solution is based on cross-correlation to extract reflected waves, but the reference waves remain in the result, disturbing the imaging and interpretation of the adverse geology. To solve this problem, the deep learning method was introduced in wavefield retrieval to improve the accuracy of geological prospecting. We trained a deep neural network (DNN) with its strong nonlinear mapping capability to transform seismic data from TBM drilling noise to data from the active source. The issue lies in its features for this specific tunnel task, including the decay of the seismic signal with time and the incomplete spatial correspondence. Thus, we improved a classical DNN with the time constraint as an additional input, and an additional pre-decoder to enlarge the receptive field. Additionally, a loss function weighted by the ground truth and time constraint is improved to achieve an accurate retrieval of the effective signal, considering the little effective information in tunnel data. Finally, the workflow of the proposed method was given, and a dataset designed with reference to the field case was employed to train the network. The proposed method accurately retrieved the reflection signal with higher dominant frequencies, which helped improve the accuracy of imaging. Numerical simulations and imaging on typical geological models show that the proposed method can suppress reference waves and get more accurate results with fewer artifacts. The proposed method has been applied in the Gaoligongshan Tunnel and imaged two abnormal zones, providing meaningful geological information for TBM drilling and tunnel construction.

Abstract Background Improving the potency of immune response is paramount among issues concerning immunotherapy of muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). Methods On the basis of immune subtypes, we investigated possible molecular mechanisms involved in tumor immune escape in MIBC. According to the 312 immune‐related genes, three MIBC immune subtypes were clustered. Results Cluster 2 subtype is characterized by FGFR3 mutations and has a better clinical prognosis. However, the expression levels of MHC‐I and immune checkpoints genes were the lowest, indicating that this subtype is subject to immune escape and has a low response rate to immunotherapy. Bioinformatics analysis and immunofluorescence staining of clinical samples revealed that the FGFR3 is involved in the immune escape in MIBC. Besides, after FGFR3 knockout with siRNA in RT112 and UMUC14 cells, the TLR3/NF‐kB pathway was significantly activated and was accompanied by upregulation of MHC‐I and PD‐L1 gene expression. Furthermore, the use of TLR3 agonists poly(I:C) can further improve the effect. Conclusion Together, our results suggest that FGFR3 might involve in immunosuppression by inhibition of NF‐kB pathway in BC. Considering that TLR3 agonists are currently approved for clinical treatment as immunoadjuvants, our study might provide more insights for improving the efficacy of immunotherapy in MIBC.

Abstract Background As an effective measurement for severe acute kidney injury (AKI), the prolonged intermittent renal replacement therapy (PIRRT) received attention. Also, machine learning has advanced and been applied to medicine. This study aimed to establish short-term prognosis prediction models for severe AKI patients who received PIRRT by machine learning. Methods The hospitalized AKI patients who received PIRRT were assigned to this retrospective case-control study. They were grouped based on survival situation and renal recovery status. To screen the correlation, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, partial ETA square, and chi-square test were applied, eight machine learning models were used for training. Results Among 493 subjects, the mortality rate was 51.93% and the kidney recovery rate was 30.43% at 30 days post-discharge, respectively. The indices related to survival were Sodium, Total protein, Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), Phosphorus, Thrombin time, Liver cirrhosis, chronic kidney disease stage, number of vital organ injuries, and AKI stage, while Sodium, Total protein, LDH, Phosphorus, Thrombin time, Diabetes, peripherally inserted central catheter and AKI stage were selected to predict the 30-day renal recovery. Naive Bayes has a good performance in the prediction model for survival, Random Forest has a good performance in 30-day renal recovery prediction model, while for 90-day renal recovery prediction model, it’s K-Nearest Neighbor. Conclusions Machine learning can not only screen out indicators influencing prognosis of AKI patients receiving PIRRT, but also establish prediction models to optimize the risk assessment of these people. Moreover, attention should be paid to serum electrolytes to improve prognosis.

Abstract Background Although highly heterogeneous among countries, the incidence rates of low birth weight (LBW), preterm birth (PTB), and small for gestational age (SGA) have been increasing globally over the past two decades. To better understand the cause of these secular trends, this study aimed to investigate the effects of age, period, and birth cohort on LBW, PTB, and SGA rates in Shanghai. Methods Data from 2,958,695 singleton live births at 24–41 gestational weeks between 2004 and 2020 were obtained for this study. Age-period-cohort models based on Poisson regression were used to evaluate the independent effects of maternal age, delivery period, and maternal birth cohort on the trends in LBW, PTB, and SGA. Results The overall prevalence rates of LBW, PTB, and SGA were 2.9%, 4.7%, and 9.3%, respectively, and significant changes were observed (average annual change: + 10.7‰, + 9.1‰, -11.9‰) from 2004 to 2020. Cohort effect increased steadily, from 1960 (risk ratio [RR] = 0.71, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.65–0.78) to 1993 (RR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.94–1.01) for LBW and from 1960 (RR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.64–0.75) to 2004 (RR = 1.02, 95% CI: 0.94–1.12) for PTB. A strong cohort effect was found with the highest risk of SGA (RR = 1.82, 95% CI: 1.72–1.93) in 1960 and the lowest risk (RR = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.54–0.61) in 2004, compared with the reference cohort of 1985. There was a “U-shaped” maternal age effect on LBW and PTB and a weak period effect on the three birth outcomes. Conclusions Our findings suggested a significant independent effect of age, period, and birth cohort on the three birth outcomes. The increasing rates of LBW and PTB motivated us to focus on young and advanced pregnant women. Meanwhile, the prevalence of SGA decreased steadily, illustrating the need for further research on the mechanisms underlying these trends.

Abstract Estrogen plays a protective role in colorectal cancer (CRC) and primarily functions through estrogen receptor β (ERβ). However, clinical strategies for CRC therapy associated with ERβ are still under investigation. Our discoveries identified WFDC3 as a tumor suppressor that facilitates estrogen-induced inhibition of metastasis through the ERβ/TGFBR1 signaling axis. WFDC3 interacts with ERβ and increases its protein stability by inhibiting its proteasome-dependent degradation. WFDC3 represses TGFBR1 expression through ERβ-mediated transcription. Blocking TGFβ signaling with galunisertib, a drug used in clinical trials that targets TGFBR1, impaired the migration of CRC cells induced by WFDC3 depletion. Moreover, there was clinical significance to WFDC3 in CRC, as CRC patients with high WFDC3 expression in tumor cells had favorable prognoses. Therefore, this work suggests that WFDC3 could be an indicator for therapies targeting the estrogen/ERβ pathway in CRC patients.

Abstract Kaempferol (KA), a widely recognized anti‐oxidation and anti‐inflammation agent, has been reported to have neuroprotective effects. This work aimed to investigate whether KA protects mouse dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons against bupivacaine (BU)‐stimulated neurotoxicity and explore the underlying mechanisms. In this study, BU treatment suppressed DRG neuron viability and promoted LDH leakage, which was partially abated by KA. Besides, BU‐triggered DRG neuron apoptosis, and changes in Bax and Bcl‐2 levels were attenuated by KA treatment. In addition, pretreatment with KA substantially reduced interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐1β, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α levels in BU‐treated DRG neurons. In addition, KA administration abrogated BU‐induced decline in CAT, SOD, and GSH‐Px levels, as well as the increase in the malondialdehyde level. Interestingly, we found that KA significantly attenuated BU‐induced TNF receptor‐associated factor 6 (TRAF6) upregulation as well as NF‐κB activation. Furthermore, oe‐TRAF6‐mediated TRAF6 overexpression promoted NF‐κB activation and partly abolished KA‐induced protection against BU‐triggered neurotoxic effects on DRG neurons. Our results revealed that KA mitigated BU‐induced neurotoxic effects on DRG neurons by deactivating the TRAF6/NF‐κB signaling.

At present, the creep problem of underground engineering surrounding rock still exists, and the creep theory needs to be further enriched. In essence, rock creep is a process of constant accumulation of damage. In view of the damage evolution of rock under creep conditions, triaxial creep tests are carried out on red sandstone taken from Yibo Tunnel in Leshan, Sichuan Province by TAW-2000 to analyze the creep deformation rule of specimens under different confining pressures. Based on Weibull distribution and Perzyna viscoplastic theory, an improved viscoelastoplastic creep model is established which can describe the whole process of rock creep failure. The critical point damage variable is defined by dividing the creep stage, so that the acceleration creep start time can be determined more accurately. The following conclusions are drawn: (1) the model curve in this paper is in good agreement with the test data, which verifies the accuracy and rationality of the model in this paper, and indicates that the viscoelastic-plastic creep model of red sandstone established based on Weibull distribution is feasible. (2) Based on Perzyna viscoplastic theory, a more accurate viscoplastic strain expression is established to describe accelerated creep. (3) The triaxial damage creep model established in this paper based on Weibull distribution and Perzyna viscoplastic theory can describe the whole process of rock creep well, overcoming the shortcoming of the Siyuan model which can not describe accelerated creep. The relationship between rock creep deformation and damage can be better reflected by defining the critical point damage variables of different creep stages, which enriches the creep constitutive theory of rock materials.

Abstract Objective To evaluate whether the pretreatment Lung Immune Prognostic Index (LIPI) is associated with outcomes in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients under ICI. Methods A two-center retrospective study of patients with HCC treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) between January 2018 and January 2021 was performed. Based on pretreatment derived neutrophils/ (leukocytes minus neutrophils) ratio (dNLR) greater than 3 and a lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level greater than the normal value, patients were stratified into three groups (good LIPI:0 risk factor, intermediate LIPI: 1 risk factor, and poor LIPI: 2 risk factors). The primary endpoints were overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). The second endpoints were disease control rate (DCR) and objective response rate (ORR). Results In the pooled cohort (n = 224), 80 (35.7%) had a good LIPI (zero factor), 91 (40.6%) had intermediate LIPI (one factor), and 53 (23.7%) had poor LIPI (two factors). The median follow-up was 25.1 months. Median OS was 16.8 months, 12.5 months, and 9.5 months for the good, intermediate, and poor LIPI groups, respectively (P

Compared with traditional laser shock peening by nanosecond pulse laser, femtosecond laser shock peening (FLSP) exhibits superior flexibility and efficiency since it can be carried out directly in air without any ablative or confinement layers. In this work, FLSP was successfully performed on AZ31 magnesium alloy sheet. The influence of pulse energy on surface morphology and roughness, microstructure, surface residual stress and hardness was investigated in details. The results show that varying the laser pulse energy could effectively improve the surface integrity of the material. Regular dents are produced at the material surface with relatively low pulse energies, and the regular dent morphology disappears gradually with increasing pulse energy, suggesting an increased surface roughness. Surface microhardness and residual compressive stress are increased significantly after FLSP. The surface microhardness increases from the untreated 58.13 HV to the maximum value of about 69.58 HV at 37 μJ, by an increase of 19.7%. At 73 μJ, the residual compressive stress rises to a maximum value of approximately 59.6 MPa from an untreated 16.3 MPa. Moreover, the nano-hardness near the surface at the cross section is 1.68 GPa at 37 μJ, with an increase of 46% compared to the untreated 1.14 GPa. Particularly, twins and grain refinement layers are observed near the surface after FLSP, also indicated by the XRD analysis. The plastic deformation and grain refinement with low pulse energies contribute to the surface strengthening while the thermal effect and surface oxidation with increasing pulse energy may inhibit the enhancement of surface integrity.

Meat products are an important part in our daily diet, providing valuable nutrients for the human body. However, heating processes cause the meat to become more appetizing with changes in texture, appearance, flavor, and chemical properties by the altering of protein structure and other ingredients. As one kind of cooking-induced contaminants, heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAAs) are widely present in protein aceous food products with strong carcinogenic and mutagenic properties. In order to promote the safety of traditional meat products, this review focused on the formation, metabolism, biological monitoring and inhibitory mechanism of HAA. An overview of the formation pathways, hazards, and control methods of HAAs during food processing in recent years was studied, aiming to provide some valuable information for exploring effective methods to inhibit the production of associated hazards during food processing. Systematic selection of different types of flavonoids to explore their effects on the formation of HAAs in an actual barbecue system can provide theoretical reference for effectively controlling the formation of HAAs and reducing their harm to human health.

The stink bug, Riptortus pedestris (Fabricius) (Hemiptera: Alydidae), is a highly destructive pest that significantly damages legume crops in East and South Asia. Neonicotinoid insecticides containing thiamethoxam are widely used to control R. pedestris in soybean fields. However, the current knowledge on the impact of different thiamethoxam concentrations on R. pedestris growth and reproduction is lacking and insufficient. The present study investigated the effects of thiamethoxam on the biological traits of R. pedestris after treatment with LC10 (19.8 mg/L), LC20 (31.6 mg/L), LC30 (44.2 mg/L), LC40 (58.9 mg/L), and LC50 (77.0 mg/L) concentrations. These five thiamethoxam concentrations (LC10~LC50) reduced adult longevity and fecundity in the F1 generation females. Thiamethoxam treatment also significantly decreased the population trend index, intrinsic rate of increase, net reproductive rate, gross reproductive rate, and finite rate of increase and increased the mean generation time. These results show that thiamethoxam hinders and suppresses the development and growth of the F1 population of R. pedestris. Thiamethoxam is recommended for spray control during peak adult emergence, as it not only has a controlling effect on the parental generation but also a negative impact on the F1 generations.

Centrifugal pumps are important equipment in industrial production, and their safe and reliable operation is of great significance to water supply and industrial safety. During the use of centrifugal pumps, faults such as bearing damage, blade wear, shaft imbalance, shaft misalignment and water hammer often occur. Among them, although water hammer faults occur at a low frequency, they are difficult to monitor and pose significant risks to valve and pipeline interfaces. This article analyzes the causes, mechanisms and phenomena of water hammer faults in centrifugal pumps, designs a monitoring method to effectively monitor the vibration signal of the centrifugal pumps, extracts vibration characteristics to determine and record water hammer events, designs monitoring and diagnostic models for the edge layer and server side, and establishes an experimental verification testing system. The test results show that, under the conditions of simulating water hammer faults, after high-pass filtering of the collected vibration data, the kurtosis index, pulse index and margin index all exceed twice the threshold, and both sensors emit water hammer alarms. The designed data acquisition method can capture water hammer signals in a timely manner, and the analysis model can automatically identify water hammer faults based on existing fault knowledge and rules. This fully demonstrates the scientific and effective nature of the proposed centrifugal pump fault monitoring method and system, which is of great significance for ensuring the safe operation and improving the design of centrifugal pumps.

Background: Selenium (Se) pollution poses serious threats to terrestrial ecosystems. Mushrooms are important sources of Se with the potential for bioremediation. Pre-eminent Se resources must possess the ability to tolerate high levels of Se. To obtain Se-accumulating fungi, we isolated selenite-tolerance-enhanced Ganoderma lucidum JNUSE-200 through adaptive evolution. Methods: The molecular mechanism responsible for selenite tolerance and accumulation was explored in G. lucidum JNUSE-200 by comparing it with the original strain, G. lucidum CGMCC 5.26, using a combination of physiological and transcriptomic approaches. Results: G. lucidum JNUSE-200 demonstrated tolerance to 200 mg/kg selenite in liquid culture and exhibited normal growth, whereas G. lucidum CGMCC 5.26 experienced reduced growth, red coloration, and an unpleasant odor as a result of exposure to selenite at the same concentration. In this study, G. lucidum JNUSE-200 developed a triple defense mechanism against high-level selenite toxicity, and the key genes responsible for improved selenite tolerance were identified. Conclusions: The present study offers novel insights into the molecular responses of fungi towards selenite, providing theoretical guidance for the breeding and cultivation of Se-accumulating varieties. Moreover, it significantly enhances the capacity of the bio-manufacturing industry and contributes to the development of beneficial applications in environmental biotechnology through fungal selenite transformation bioprocesses.

Bioretention can be an efficient measure of stormwater treatment. The bioretention system has been globally adapted for controlling rainfall-runoff volume and removing pollutants. However, there is a lack of systematic analysis of some hydrological processes in the bioretention facility, such as the transportation of rainfall-runoff (event water) and soil water (pre-event water). This research uniquely applied stable isotope tracing to a bioretention system to investigate the transport of rainfall-runoff and the movement of soil water in a bioretention column. The stable isotope tracing method is helpful for determining the transport process of water and is expected to enhance our understanding of bioretention systems. The ratio of the event rainfall-runoff and the pre-event soil water in the bottom outflow of bioretention columns was calculated by the stable isotope bivariate mixing model based on the oxygen and hydrogen stable isotopic data from continuous testing in the discharge of bioretention column. The time-varying proportion of event water and pre-event water in the hydrographic curve reveals that the outflow process of soil water is divided into three stages. In the early stage, all the outflow was soil water, accounting for about 6–13% of the total outflow. In the middle stage, the proportion of soil water rapidly decreased from 100% to 20% within a few minutes. In the later stage, the soil water proportion decreased slowly from 20% to 0%. The outflow of soil water accounted for more than 36% of the total outflow and decreased with the extension of the drought period. Soil water is a critical part of the bottom outflow of bioretention columns, and the influence of soil water on the hydrological effect of bioretention columns cannot be ignored.

Rice is one of the most important staple crops in the world; therefore, the improvement of rice holds great significance for enhancing agricultural production and addressing food security challenges. Although there have been numerous studies on the role of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in rice improvement with the development of next-generation sequencing technologies, research on the role of presence/absence variations (PAVs) in the improvement of rice is limited. In particular, there is a scarcity of studies exploring the traits and genes that may be affected by PAVs in rice. Here, we extracted PAVs utilizing resequencing data from 148 improved rice varieties distributed in Asia. We detected a total of 33,220 PAVs and found that the number of variations decreased gradually as the length of the PAVs increased. The number of PAVs was the highest on chromosome 1. Furthermore, we identified a 6 Mb hotspot region on chromosome 11 containing 1091 PAVs in which there were 29 genes related to defense responses. By conducting a genome-wide association study (GWAS) using PAV variation data and phenotypic data for five traits (flowering time, plant height, flag leaf length, flag leaf width, and panicle number) across all materials, we identified 186 significantly associated PAVs involving 20 cloned genes. A haplotype analysis and expression analysis of candidate genes revealed that important genes might be affected by PAVs, such as the flowering time gene OsSFL1 and the flag leaf width gene NAL1. Our work investigated the pattern in PAVs and explored important PAV key functional genes associated with agronomic traits. Consequently, these results provide potential and exploitable genetic resources for rice breeding.

Microalgal lipids hold significant potential for the production of biodiesel and dietary supplements. To enhance their cost-effectiveness and commercial competitiveness, it is imperative to improve microalgal lipid productivity. Metabolic engineering that targets the key enzymes of the fatty acid synthesis pathway, along with transcription factor engineering, are effective strategies for improving lipid productivity in microalgae. This review provides a summary of the advancements made in the past 5 years in engineering the fatty acid biosynthetic pathway in eukaryotic microalgae. Furthermore, this review offers insights into transcriptional regulatory mechanisms and transcription factor engineering aimed at enhancing lipid production in eukaryotic microalgae. Finally, the review discusses the challenges and future perspectives associated with utilizing microalgae for the efficient production of lipids.

Nsp13, a non-structural protein belonging to the coronavirus family 1B (SF1B) helicase, exhibits 5′–3′ polarity-dependent DNA or RNA unwinding using NTPs. Crucially, it serves as a key component of the viral replication–transcription complex (RTC), playing an indispensable role in the coronavirus life cycle and thereby making it a promising target for broad-spectrum antiviral therapies. The imidazole scaffold, known for its antiviral potential, has been proposed as a potential scaffold. In this study, a fluorescence-based assay was designed by labeling dsDNA substrates with a commercial fluorophore and monitoring signal changes upon Nsp13 helicase activity. Optimization and high-throughput screening validated the feasibility of this approach. In accordance with the structural characteristics of ADP, we employed a structural-based design strategy to synthesize three classes of imidazole-based compounds through substitution reaction. Through in vitro activity research, pharmacokinetic parameter analysis, and molecular docking simulation, we identified compounds A16 (IC50 = 1.25 μM) and B3 (IC50 = 0.98 μM) as potential lead antiviral compounds for further targeted drug research.

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is a promising technique for sensitive detection. The design and optimization of plasma-enhanced structures for SERS applications is an interesting challenge. In this study, we found that the SERS activity of MXene (Ti3C2Tx) can be improved by adding Au nanoparticles (NPs) in a simple photoreduction process. Fluoride-salt-etched MXene was deposited by drop-casting on a glass slide, and Au NPs were formed by the photocatalytic growth of gold(III) chloride trihydrate solutions under ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. The Au–MXene substrate formed by Au NPs anchored on the Ti3C2Tx sheet produced significant SERS through the synergistic effect of chemical and electromagnetic mechanisms. The structure and size of the Au-decorated MXene depended on the reaction time. When the MXene films were irradiated with a large number of UV photons, the size of the Au NPs increased. Hot spots were formed in the nanoscale gaps between the Au NPs, and the abundant surface functional groups of the MXene effectively adsorbed and interacted with the probe molecules. Simultaneously, as a SERS substrate, the proposed Au–MXene composite exhibited a wider linear range of 10−4–10−9 mol/L for detecting carbendazim. In addition, the enhancement factor of the optimized SERS substrate Au–MXene was 1.39 × 106, and its relative standard deviation was less than 13%. This study provides a new concept for extending experimental strategies to further improve the performance of SERS.

This study exhibits the possibility of using an artificial neural network (ANN) to model the mechanical behavior of wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) for Inconel 625. For this reason, tensile tests of Inconel 625 superalloy as-built (AB) samples and samples after heat treatment at 1200 °C (HT-1200) by WAAM were performed. For the HT-1200 samples, the yield stress decreased, and the elongation increased significantly due to grain refinement and the formation of annealed twins. A new hybrid model combining a swarm intelligence optimization algorithm with a back propagation neural network (BPNN) was developed to simulate the flow behavior of the superalloy. Compared with other hybrid BPNN models that have been reported, the proposed BPNN model is in better agreement with the experimental data and provides a better description of the flow stress of the Inconel 625 superalloy. The excellent predictive ability of the model may be attributed to the optimization of the weights and thresholds of the BPNN, which obtains the optimal global solution in the search space more efficiently.

Endothelin-1 is a key regulator of vascular tone and blood pressure in health and disease. We have recently found that ET-1 production in human microvascular endothelial cells (HMECs) can be promoted by angiotensin II (Ang II) through a novel mechanism involving octamer-binding transcription factor-1 (Oct-1), NADPH oxidase-2 (NOX2), and superoxide anions. As the formation of bioactive ET-1 also depends on endothelin-converting enzyme-1 (ECE-1), we investigated the transcriptional regulation of the ECE1 gene. We found that exposure of HMECs to Ang II resulted in a concentration- and time-dependent increase in ECE1 mRNA expression. Pharmacological inhibition of ECE-1 reduced Ang II-stimulated ET-1 release to baseline values. The effect of Ang II on ECE1 mRNA expression was associated with Oct-1 binding to the ECE1 promoter, resulting in its increased activity. Consequently, the Ang II-stimulated increase in ECE1 mRNA expression could be prevented by siRNA-mediated Oct-1 inhibition. It could also be abolished by silencing the NOX2 gene and neutralizing superoxide anions with superoxide dismutase. In mice fed a high-fat diet, cardiac expression of Ece1 mRNA increased in wild-type mice but not in Nox2-deficient animals. It can be concluded that Ang II engages Oct-1, NOX2, and superoxide anions to stimulate ECE1 expression in the endothelium.

Structural superlubricity refers to the lubrication state in which the friction between two crystalline surfaces in incommensurate contact is nearly zero; this has become an important branch in recent tribological research. Two-dimensional (2D) materials with structural superlubricity such as graphene, MoS2, h-BN, and alike, which possess unique layered structures and excellent friction behavior, will bring significant advances in the development of high-performance microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), as well as in space exploration, space transportation, precision manufacturing, and high-end equipment. Herein, the review mainly introduces the tribological properties of structural superlubricity among typical 2D layered materials and summarizes in detail the underlying mechanisms responsible for superlubricity on sliding surfaces and the influencing factors including the size and layer effect, elasticity effect, moiré superlattice, edge effect, and other external factors like normal load, velocity, and temperature, etc. Finally, the difficulties in achieving robust superlubricity from micro to macroscale were focused on, and the prospects and suggestions were discussed.

The intricate geological conditions of reservoir banks render them highly susceptible to destabilization and damage from fluctuations in water levels. The study area, the Cheyipin section of the Huangdeng Hydroelectric Station, is characterized by numerous ancient landslides of varying scales and ages. In June 2019, during the reservoir filling process of the Huangdeng Hydroelectric Station, a large-scale reactivation of ancient landslides occurred in this area, posing severe threats to riverside infrastructure and human safety, including ground cracking, house cracking, foundation settlement, and road collapse. The reactivation mechanism of ancient landslides at reservoir banks is highly complex due to fluid dynamics. This study conducted field investigations in the Cheyipin landslide area, monitored surface and subsurface deformations using GNSS and inclinometers, and analyzed the distribution characteristics, destruction features, and reactivation mechanisms of the landslides through correlation analysis and numerical calculations. The results indicate that the instability pattern of the slopes manifests as traction-type sliding failure. The slopes do not slide along the ancient sliding surface but along a newly formed arcuate sliding surface, with the direct impact area mainly concentrated near the waterline. The stability of the slopes in this project is closely related to the reservoir water level. It can be assumed that the lowering of the reservoir water level triggered the reactivation of the ancient landslides in the Cheyipin section, while the influence of rainfall can be ignored. To prevent the reactivation of ancient landslides, attention should be focused on the changes in reservoir water level, avoiding rapid adjustments in water level during the initial lowering and final raising of the water level.

Antibiotics cannot be effectively removed by traditional wastewater treatment processes, and have become widespread pollutants in various environments. In this study, a Z-type heterojunction photo-catalyst Pg-C3N4 (PCN)/Nitrogen doped biochar (N-Biochar)/BiVO4 (NCBN) for the degradation of norfloxacin (NOR) was prepared by the hydrothermal method. The specific surface area of the NCBN (42.88 m2/g) was further improved compared to BiVO4 (4.528 m2/g). The photo-catalytic performance of the catalyst was investigated, and the N-Biochar acted as a charge transfer channel to promote carrier separation and form Z-type heterojunctions. Moreover, the NCBN exhibited excellent performance (92.5%) in removing NOR, which maintained 70% degradation after four cycles. The main active substance of the NCBN was •O2−, and the possible degradation pathways are provided. This work will provide a theoretical basis for the construction of heterojunction photo-catalysts.

The rapid production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a hallmark of plants’ successful recognition of pathogen infection and plays a crucial role in innate immune signaling. Aquaporins (AQPs) are membrane channels that facilitate the transport of small molecular compounds across cell membranes. In plants, AQPs from the plasma membrane intrinsic protein (PIP) family are utilized for the transport of H2O2, thereby regulating various biological processes. Plants contain two PIP families, PIP1s and PIP2s. However, the specific functions and relationships between these subfamilies in plant growth and immunity remain largely unknown. In this study, we explore the synergistic role of AtPIP1;4 and AtPIP2;4 in regulating plant growth and disease resistance in Arabidopsis. We found that in plant cells treated with H2O2, AtPIP1;4 and AtPIP2;4 act as facilitators of H2O2 across membranes and the translocation of externally applied H2O2 from the apoplast to the cytoplasm. Moreover, AtPIP1;4 and AtPIP2;4 collaborate to transport bacterial pathogens and flg22-induced apoplastic H2O2 into the cytoplasm, leading to increased callose deposition and enhanced defense gene expression to strengthen immunity. These findings suggest that AtPIP1;4 and AtPIP2;4 cooperatively mediate H2O2 transport to regulate plant growth and immunity.

Abstract The association between the embryo quality, clinical characteristics, miRNAs (secreted by blastocysts in the culture medium) and pregnancy outcomes has been well-established. Studies on prediction models for pregnancy outcome, using clinical characteristics and miRNA expression, are limited. We aimed to establish the prediction model for prediction of pregnancy outcome of woman after a fresh cycle of Day 5 single blastocyst transfer (Day 5 SBT) based on clinical data and miRNA expression. A total of 86 women, 50 with successful pregnancy and 36 with pregnancy failure after fresh cycle of Day 5 SBT, were enrolled in this study. All samples were divided into training set and test set (3:1). Based on clinical index statistics of enrolled population and miRNA expression, the prediction model was constructed, followed by validation of the prediction model. Four clinical indicators, female age, sperm DNA fragmentation index, anti-mullerian hormone, estradiol, can be used as independent predictors of pregnancy failure after fresh cycle of Day 5 SBT. Three miRNAs (hsa-miR-199a-3p, hsa-miR-199a-5p and hsa-miR-99a-5p) had a potential diagnostic value for pregnancy failure after Day 5 SBT. The predictive effect of model combining 4 clinical indicators and 3 miRNAs (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, AUC = 0.853) was better than models combining single 4 clinical indicators (AUC = 0.755) or 3 miRNAs (AUC = 0.713). Based on 4 clinical indicators and 3 miRNAs, a novel model to predict pregnancy outcome in woman after fresh cycle of Day 5 SBT has been developed and validated. The predictive model may be valuable for clinicians to make the optimal clinical decision and patient selection.

Abstract Background Prostate cancer (PC) is the most common cancer in older men in Europe and the United States and has the second highest death rate among male cancers. The transcription of heat shock proteins by Heat shock factor 1 (HSF1) is known to regulate cell growth and stress. Nevertheless, the impact of HSF1 on ferroptosis in PC through heat shock protein 10 (HSPE1) remains unexplored. Methods This study employed a range of analytical techniques, including proteomics sequencing, LC–MS/MS, CHIP-qPCR, Western blotting, immunohisto -chemistry, JC-1, CKK-8, MDA, and ROS assays. Bioinformatics analysis was performed using the UALCAN,GEPIA, PCaDB and Metascape platforms. Results Compared with levels observed in tumor-adjacent tissue, the levels of proteins associated with fatty acids, amino acids and the oxidative phosphorylation metabolic pathway were significantly upregulated in high-risk PC tissue (Gleason score ≥ 8). HSF1 mRNA and protein levels in high-risk PC tissues were significantly higher than those observed in medium-risk PC (Gleason score = 7) and low-risk PC (Gleason score ≤ 6) tissues. ssGSEA showed that HSF1 was involved in the proliferation and anti-apoptotic processes of PC. Further bioinformatics analysis showed that HSF1 potentially affects the mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) system by targeting HSPE1. In addition, HSF1 alleviates ROS and MDA levels to enhance the resistance of prostate cancer cells to ferroptosis by regulating HSPE1 in vitro, and HSF1 knockout promotes the susceptibility of PC to RSL3 treatment by increasing ferroptosis in vivo. Conclusion Collectively, our findings suggest that HSF1 exerts a significant influence on PC. HSF1 may represent a promising biomarker for identifying high-risk PC, and the elimination of HSF1 could potentially enhance the therapeutic effectiveness of RSL3.

Abstract Background Epilepsy comorbidities adversely affect the quality of life of patients. Women with epilepsy are at a high risk of comorbid endocrine disorders. Among them, the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has a threefold higher prevalence in women with epilepsy than in healthy women and is the main cause of infertility among the patients. Clinically, women with epilepsy show heterogeneity in the susceptibility to PCOS. This heterogeneity may be associated with genetic factor. Methods To test this, we retrospectively collected clinical data from 45 female patients with epilepsy and divided them into three groups according to their susceptibility to PCOS. Groups A and B represented a high susceptibility to PCOS. Patients in Group A were diagnosed with PCOS before their first seizure, while patients in Group B were diagnosed with PCOS after a short period of monotherapy with a low dose of antiseizure medication (ASM) following the diagnosis of epilepsy. Patients in Group C did not develop PCOS despite a prolonged treatment with high-dose ASM. We compared the clinical data and genetic profiles among the three groups. Results We found a clear trend of impaired metabolism in Group B patients and this may be associated with high-frequency mutations in MYO10 and ADGRL3. Conclusions Our study suggests that women with epilepsy are heterogeneous in the susceptibility to PCOS and this is associated with mutations in specific genes. Therefore, genetic screening should be conducted to screen for women with epilepsy who are more likely to have comorbid PCOS, so that they can receive targeted interventions at an early stage to reduce the risk.

Objective: The anti-aging effect of the fruits of Rosa xanthina Lindl (RF) was investigated by the 1H NMR based metabolomics using D-galactose-induced aging rats. Methods: Rat subacute senile model was established by subcutaneous injection of D-galactose (400 mg/kg), and the anti-aging effects of RF were studied at three different doses (1.6, 3.2, 6.4 g/kg). On the 30th day, rat serum was collected and the serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), lipid peroxide (LPO) and hydroxyproline (Hyp) were determined. The anti-aging effects of high, middle, low dose of RF were investigated by 1H NMR metabolomics, and combined with multivariate statistical analysis. Results: When compared with the model group, RF extracts could increase serum SOD and Hyp levels (P

Drugs, which treat various diseases, are essential for human health. However, developing new drugs is quite laborious, time-consuming, and expensive. Although investments into drug development have greatly increased over the years, the number of drug approvals each year remain quite low. Drug repositioning is deemed an effective means to accelerate the procedures of drug development because it can discover novel effects of existing drugs. Numerous computational methods have been proposed in drug repositioning, some of which were designed as binary classifiers that can predict drug-disease associations (DDAs). The negative sample selection was a common defect of this method. In this study, a novel reliable negative sample selection scheme, named RNSS, is presented, which can screen out reliable pairs of drugs and diseases with low probabilities of being actual DDAs. This scheme considered information from k-neighbors of one drug in a drug network, including their associations to diseases and the drug. Then, a scoring system was set up to evaluate pairs of drugs and diseases. To test the utility of the RNSS, three classic classification algorithms (random forest, bayes network and nearest neighbor algorithm) were employed to build classifiers using negative samples selected by the RNSS. The cross-validation results suggested that such classifiers provided a nearly perfect performance and were significantly superior to those using some traditional and previous negative sample selection schemes.

Abstract Background To evaluate the impact of radiosensitivity on outcomes of spinal metastases treated with stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) and identify the correlated prognostic factors. Methods The authors retrospectively reviewed the records of all patients who underwent SBRT with no prior radiation for spinal metastases between October 2015 and October 2020 at Sun Yat‐sen University Cancer Center. On the basis of radiosensitivity, patients were divided into two groups—radiosensitive and radioresistant. The endpoints included local control (LC), overall survival (OS), pain relief, and time to pain relief. Results A total of 259 (82.5%) patients with 451 lesions were assessable with a median follow‐up time of 10.53 months. The 1‐, 2‐, and 3‐year OS rates were 59%, 52%, and 44%, respectively. The median survival was 33.17 months. Higher Karnofsky Performance Scale score and shorter time to diagnosis of spinal metastases from primary cancer at consult predicted for better OS (p = 0.02 and p