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Abstract Clarifying the relationship between the man–machine environment and its impact on the tunnel wall drilling task performance (TWDTP) is crucial for enhancing the task performance. Based on a questionnaire survey, indicators of the man–machine environment that affect the TWDTP were proposed in this study, and exploratory factor analysis and a structural equation model were employed to examine the potential factors influencing the task performance and their degrees of influence. By comparing the discrepancy between the perceived performance and importance, the satisfaction of potential factors was evaluated, and the priority order for optimizing these factors was determined by considering the degree of influence and dissatisfaction. The results of survey data analysis based on actual tunnel drilling operation scenarios indicated that tools had the greatest impact on the TWDTP, followed by the quality of the physical environment, while human factors had the least influence on the task performance. Convenient functional maintenance is the key to improving the TWDTP, along with enhancing the quality of the working environment. Once these main aspects are optimized, it is important to consider additional factors such as availability of spare tools, efficient personnel organization, man–tool matching, and safety and health assurance. This research approach provides significant guidance in understanding the relationships between the man–machine environmental factors affecting the performance of complex engineering tasks and identifying key influencing factors, thus providing essential insights for optimizing the TWDTP.

Abstract The N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification plays essential roles in multiple biological processes, including stem cell fate determination. To explore the role of the m6A modification in pluripotent reprogramming, we used RNA-seq to map m6A effectors in human iPSCs, fibroblasts, and H9 ESCs, as well as in mouse ESCs and fibroblasts. By integrating the human and mouse RNA-seq data, we found that 19 m6A effectors were significantly upregulated in reprogramming. Notably, IGF2BPs, particularly IGF2BP1, were among the most upregulated genes in pluripotent cells, while YTHDF3 had high levels of expression in fibroblasts. Using quantitative PCR and Western blot, we validated the pluripotency-associated elevation of IGF2BPs. Knockdown of IGF2BP1 induced the downregulation of stemness genes and exit from pluripotency. Proteome analysis of cells collected at both the beginning and terminal states of the reprogramming process revealed that the IGF2BP1 protein was positively correlated with stemness markers SOX2 and OCT4. The eCLIP-seq target analysis showed that IGF2BP1 interacted with the coding sequence (CDS) and 3’UTR regions of the SOX2 transcripts, in agreement with the location of m6A modifications. This study identifies IGF2BP1 as a vital pluripotency-associated m6A effector, providing new insight into the interplay between m6A epigenetic modifications and pluripotent reprogramming.

Abstract The poor dispersibility of layered double hydroxides (LDHs) is considered to be the main drawback limiting their application in anti-corrosive coatings. In this work, the problem is solved by combining LDHs with graphene (Gr). A facile electrochemically assisted deposition technique (EAT) is developed to prepare Gr/LDH micro/nano-containers. The high-barrier Gr and LDHs synergistically build a ‘labyrinth effect’ to lengthen the diffusion path of corrosive mediums. Moreover, corrosion inhibitors can be released from the interlayer galleries of LDHs and impede corrosion of metal substrate by substituting the aggressive ions. Therefore, the polyvinyl butyral (PVB) coatings doped with Gr/LDH micro/nano-containers pre-loaded with inhibitors 2-Mercaptobenzothiazole (MBT) have both passive and active corrosion protection properties and provide excellent protection to copper substrate.

Abstract Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) provide unlimited resources for regenerative medicine because of their potential for self-renewal and differentiation into many different cell types. The pluripotency of these PSCs is dynamically regulated at multiple cellular organelle levels. To delineate the factors that coordinate this inter-organelle crosstalk, we profiled those long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) that may participate in the regulation of multiple cellular organelles in PSCs. We have developed a unique strand-specific RNA-seq dataset of lncRNAs that may interact with mitochondria (mtlncRNAs) and polyribosomes (prlncRNAs). Among the lncRNAs differentially expressed between induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), fibroblasts, and positive control H9 human embryonic stem cells, we identified 11 prlncRNAs related to stem cell reprogramming and exit from pluripotency. In conjunction with the total RNA-seq data, this dataset provides a valuable resource to examine the role of lncRNAs in pluripotency, particularly for studies investigating the inter-organelle crosstalk network involved in germ cell development and human reproduction.

In this work, TiO2 was firmly attached on freestanding graphene (Gr, rather than graphene oxide or reduced graphene oxide) nanosheets (Gr@e-TiO2) by a novel electrodeposition method. The morphology, crystal structure, band gap characteristics, optical properties and photoelectric properties were systematically investigated. It is indicated that the absorption of visible light increased and the recombination of photogenerated electron-hole pairs decreased for the as-obtained Gr@e-TiO2. Compared with pure TiO2 as well as GO (graphene oxide)@h-TiO2 prepared by conventional hydrothermal method, Gr@e-TiO2 exhibited a more negative open circuit potential and higher photocurrent density for 304SS protection. The enhanced photocathodic protection performance of Gr@e-TiO2 can be attributed to the large specific surface area and good charge transport efficiency of graphene.

Molecular materials possessing switchable magneto-optical properties are of great interest due to their potential applications in spintronics and molecular devices. However, switching their photoluminescence (PL) and single-molecule magnet (SMM) behavior via light-induced structural changes still constitutes a formidable challenge. Here, a series of cubane structures were synthesized via self-assembly of 9-anthracene carboxylic acid (HAC) and rare-earth ions. All complexes exhibited obvious photochromic phenomena and complete PL quenching upon Xe lamp irradiation, which were realized via the synergistic effect of photogenerated radicals and [4 + 4] photocycloaddition of the AC components. The quenched PL showed the largest fluorescence intensity change (99.72%) in electron-transfer photochromic materials. A reversible decoloration process was realized via mechanical grinding, which is unexpectedly in the electron-transfer photochromic materials. Importantly, an SMM behavior of the Dy analog was observed after room-temperature irradiation due to the photocycloaddition of AC ligands and the photogenerated stable radicals changed the electrostatic ligand field and magnetic coupling. Moreover, based on the remarkably photochromic and photoluminescent properties of these compounds, 2 demos were applied to support their application in information anti-counterfeiting and inkless printing. This work, for the first time utilizing the simultaneous modulation of photocycloaddition and photogenerated radicals in one system, realizes complete PL quenching and light-induced SMM behavior, providing a dynamical switch for the construction of multifunctional polymorphic materials with optical response and optical storage devices.

Abstract As one of novel hallmarks of cancer, lipid metabolic reprogramming has recently been becoming fascinating and widely studied. Lipid metabolic reprogramming in cancer is shown to support carcinogenesis, progression, distal metastasis, and chemotherapy resistance by generating ATP, biosynthesizing macromolecules, and maintaining appropriate redox status. Notably, increasing evidence confirms that lipid metabolic reprogramming is under the control of dysregulated non‐coding RNAs in cancer, especially lncRNAs and circRNAs. This review highlights the present research findings on the aberrantly expressed lncRNAs and circRNAs involved in the lipid metabolic reprogramming of cancer. Emphasis is placed on their regulatory targets in lipid metabolic reprogramming and associated mechanisms, including the clinical relevance in cancer through lipid metabolism modulation. Such insights will be pivotal in identifying new theranostic targets and treatment strategies for cancer patients afflicted with lipid metabolic reprogramming.

PurposeThis study aimed to investigate the impacts of home quarantine on pregnancy outcomes of women with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) during the COVID-19 outbreak and whether the rational use of drugs will change these impacts.MethodsThis multi-center study was conducted to compare the pregnancy outcomes in women with ICP between the home quarantine group and the non-home quarantine group in southwest China. Propensity score matching was performed to confirm the pregnancy outcomes of the medication group and the non-medication group in women with ICP during the epidemic period.ResultsA total of 3,161 women with ICP were enrolled in this study, including 816 in the home quarantine group and 2,345 in the non-home quarantine group. Women with ICP in the home quarantine group had worse pregnancy outcomes, such as a growing risk of gestational diabetes mellitus A1, fetal growth restriction, pre-eclampsia, preterm delivery, and even stillbirth. Drug therapy could alleviate some adverse pregnancy outcomes caused by home quarantine, including pre-eclampsia, preterm delivery, and meconium-stained amniotic fluid.ConclusionCOVID-19 quarantine would increase the incidence of ICP and lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes in women with ICP. The rational use of drugs reduced some obstetrical complications and improved partial pregnancy outcomes. Our findings suggested that the government and hospitals should enhance their management and life guidance for women with ICP and speed up developing home quarantine guidelines.

Gerstmann-Sträussler-Scheinker syndrome (GSS) is a rare genetic prion disease caused by a mutation in the prion protein (PRNP) gene. It is typically characterized by progressive cerebellar ataxia and slowly progressive dementia. We present a case study of the GSS from China in which a 45-year-old male with a progressive gait and balance disorder developed cerebellar ataxia onset but was misdiagnosed as spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) for 2 years. The patient's clinical, electrophysiological, and radiological data were retrospectively analyzed. Examination revealed ataxia, dysarthria, muscle weakness, areflexia in lower limbs, including a pyramidal sign, whereas cognitive decline was insignificant. His late mother had a similar unsteady gait. An electroencephalogram (EEG) showed normal findings, and 14-3-3 protein was negative. A brain MRI was performed for global brain atrophy and ventricular enlargement. Positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET–CT) (18F-fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose, FDG) images showed mild to moderate decreased glucose metabolism in the left superior parietal lobe and left middle temporal lobe. According to genetic testing, his younger brother also had the P102L variant in the PRNP gene. This single case adds to the clinical and genetic phenotypes of GSS.

In this work, nylon 6 (PA6) and cationic dyeable polyester (CDP) modified with benzenesulfonate groups were reactively blended in a twin-screw extruder. The well-mixed CDP/PA6 blends were re-molten and statically kept for various amounts of time. The morphology evolution caused by phase separation was observed by a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and an atomic force microscopy-infrared (AFM-IR) technique. In the absence of shear force, the homogeneously mixed blends were found to separate rapidly into two phases because of the poor miscibility between polyester and polyamide. In the early stage, the dispersed phase was small in size and irregular in shape. With prolongation of the phase separation time, the dispersed phase turned into larger and spherical particles to minimize the interface between phases. The phase separation process typically lasted 2 to 7 min. This means that the effects of phase separation on the morphology of the blends cannot be ignored in injection molding, compression molding, or other processing processes short of shear force. The effects of the ratio between polyester and polyamide, the benzenesulfonate content, and the molecular weight of polymers on phase separation behavior were investigated.

25 models are designed according to the orthogonal table, to study the comprehensive relationship between heat transfer and sealing characteristics in straight-through labyrinth seals with different geometrical parameters. The experimental investigations are carried out at different pressure ratios of 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.6, 1.8. The results show that different geometry parameters brought obvious different influence on both leakage efficiency and heat transfer characteristics, and in which the parameters (H, c,β) have the most significant influence on leakage efficiency, and heat transfer characteristics under different pressure ratios, whose small changes in size can lead to performance optimization in leakage and heat transfer. The geometrical parameters always show consistent influence on leakage efficiency and heat transfer characteristics, while heat transfer characteristics show larger vibration with the increase of pressure ratio.

Abstract On the coexistence of genetically modified (GM) and non‐GM maize, the isolation distance plays an important role in controlling the transgenic flow. In this study, maize gene flow model was used to quantify the MTD0.1% and MTD1% in the main maize‐planting regions of China; those were the maximum threshold distance for the gene flow frequency equal to or lower than 1% and 0.1%. The model showed that the extreme MTD1% and MTD0.1% were 187 and 548 m, respectively. The regions of northern China and the coastal plain, including Hainan crop winter‐season multiplication base, showed a significantly high risk for maize gene flow, while the west‐south of China was the largest low‐risk areas. Except for a few sites, the isolation distance of 500 m could yield a seed purity of better than 0.1% and meet the production needs of breeder seeds. The parameters of genetic competitiveness (cp) were introduced to assess the effects of hybrid compatibility between the donor and recipient. The results showed that hybrid incompatibility could minimize the risk. When cp = 0.05, MTD1% and MTD0.1% could be greatly reduced within 19 m and 75 m. These data were helpful to provide scientific data to set the isolation distance between GM and non‐GM maize and select the right place to produce the hybrid maize seeds.

ObjectiveTo explore the prevalence and influencing factors of osteoporosis and to analyze the relationship between biochemical indicators and bone mineral density among Yugur menopausal women and adult women (aged 20 – 80 years) in Gansu province.MethodsUsing stratified cluster sampling, we recruited 960 Yugur female residents aged 20 – 80 years in Su′nan Yugu Autonomous County, Gansu province and conducted a questionnaire survey, laboratory test and physical examination including calcaneal bone mineral density detection in the women during July – August 2016. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze associates of osteoporosis prevalence and multivariate linear regression was adopted to assess the relationship between biochemical indicators and bone density.ResultsFor the 929 participants with complete information, the crude and standardized prevalence rate of osteoporosis was 27.64% and 23.53% and those were 13.99% and 12.78% for the menopausal participants, respectively. The prevalence rate of osteoporosis increased significantly with age among all the participants (χ2 = 114.576) and the menopausal participants (χ2 = 31.664) (both P < 0.05). The results of logistic regression analysis revealed that for menopausal women, the influencing factors of osteoporosis prevalence included marital status, menopause duration, and grip strength; while for adult women, the influencing factors included age, education, fracture history, and grip strength. Alkaline phosphatase was reversely correlated with bone mineral density significantly in menopausal women (β = – 0.003) and in the women aged 20 – 80 years (β = – 0.004) (both P < 0.05).ConclusionAmong Yugur menopausal women and 20 – 80 years old women in Gansu province, the prevalence rate of osteoporosis is relatively low and increases with age; the main risk factors of osteoporosis prevalence include age, duration of menopause and fracture history; alkaline phosphatase is a predictor for bone density reduction in the women.

BackgroundDue to repeated COVID-19 outbreaks worldwide, COVID-19 containment in China has become a routine social issue, entering a new phase of containment, and residents' health literacy about infection disease prevention and treatment has obtained increasing attentions.ObjectiveTo explore the health literacy about infection disease prevention and treatment in residents of Taizhou, Zhejiang during 2017—2020, and to analyze the trend of changes as well as influencing factors, providing scientific evidence for the precise implementation of actions for achieving "Healthy Taizhou 2030".MethodsThis study was implemented from 2017 to 2020 with Taizhou permanent residents aged between 15 and 69 selected using multistage random sampling, for investigating their demographics, socioeconomic features and health literacy about infection disease prevention and treatment using the National Residents' Health Literacy Monitoring Questionnaire developed by us. In January 2021, the data of health literacy about infection disease prevention and treatment of residents in Taizhou City in four years was analyzed. The health literacy data during 2017—2020 were comparatively analyzed after being processed with weight standardization, and the trend of changes during the period was analyzed using a Chi-squared test for linear trend. Binary logistic regression was used for identifying factors associated with relevant health literacy of these residents in 2020.ResultsThe number of respondents for the survey conducted in four consecutive years from 2017 to 2020, was 3 595, 5 389, 5 929, and 5 847, respectively. The samples in the four yearly surveys showed basically similar demographics, with those aged 45-54 (27.42%-30.46%) , education level was junior high school (27.78%-29.93%) , occupation was farmer (44.52%-58.03%) accounting for the largest proportion. The urban to rural population ratio for the sample of four consecutive yearly surveys was 0.50∶1, 0.55∶1, 0.54∶1 and 0.52∶1, respectively. And the male to female ratio was 1∶1, 0.95∶1, 0.99∶1 and 0.94∶1, respectively. The prevalence of having health literacy about infection disease prevention and treatment for 2017—2020 was 7.86% (642/3 595) , 19.00% (1 024/5 389) , 19.51% (1 157/5 929) , and 27.14% (1 587/5 847) , respectively. After the data were processed with weight standardization, the prevalence of health literacy regarding infectious disease prevention and treatment in 15-69-year-old residents in 2017—2020 was 22.25%, 24.72%, 25.34% and 33.14%, respectively. The health literary level regarding infectious disease prevention and treatment in the residents showed a successive linear increment during the study period regardless of living in rural or urban areas, sex, age (except for 65-69 year olds) , and education level (except for illiteracy/lower illiteracy) , and occupation (P

Abstract Background To compare the changes in quantitative parameters and the size and degree of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose ([18F]FDG) uptake of malignant tumor lesions between Bayesian penalized-likelihood (BPL) and non-BPL reconstruction algorithms. Methods Positron emission tomography/computed tomography images of 86 malignant tumor lesions were reconstructed using the algorithms of ordered subset expectation maximization (OSEM), OSEM + time of flight (TOF), OSEM + TOF + point spread function (PSF), and BPL. [18F]FDG parameters of maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax), SUVmean, metabolic tumor volume (MTV), total lesion glycolysis (TLG), and signal-to-background ratio (SBR) of these lesions were measured. Quantitative parameters between the different reconstruction algorithms were compared, and correlations between parameter variation and lesion size or the degree of [18F]FDG uptake were analyzed. Results After BPL reconstruction, SUVmax, SUVmean, and SBR were significantly increased, MTV was significantly decreased. The difference values of %ΔSUVmax, %ΔSUVmean, %ΔSBR, and the absolute value of %ΔMTV between BPL and OSEM + TOF were 40.00%, 38.50%, 33.60%, and 33.20%, respectively, which were significantly higher than those between BPL and OSEM + TOF + PSF. Similar results were observed in the comparison of OSEM and OSEM + TOF + PSF with BPL. The %ΔSUVmax, %ΔSUVmean, and %ΔSBR were all significantly negatively correlated with the size and degree of [18F]FDG uptake in the lesions, whereas significant positive correlations were observed for %ΔMTV and %ΔTLG. Conclusion The BPL reconstruction algorithm significantly increased SUVmax, SUVmean, and SBR and decreased MTV of tumor lesions, especially in small or relatively hypometabolic lesions.

Abstract Background A specific 3-dimensional intrachromosomal architecture of core stem cell factor genes is required to reprogram a somatic cell into pluripotency. As little is known about the epigenetic readers that orchestrate this architectural remodeling, we used a novel chromatin RNA in situ reverse transcription sequencing (CRIST-seq) approach to profile long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the Oct4 promoter. Results We identify Platr10 as an Oct4 - Sox2 binding lncRNA that is activated in somatic cell reprogramming. Platr10 is essential for the maintenance of pluripotency, and lack of this lncRNA causes stem cells to exit from pluripotency. In fibroblasts, ectopically expressed Platr10 functions in trans to activate core stem cell factor genes and enhance pluripotent reprogramming. Using RNA reverse transcription-associated trap sequencing (RAT-seq), we show that Platr10 interacts with multiple pluripotency-associated genes, including Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, and c-Myc, which have been extensively used to reprogram somatic cells. Mechanistically, we demonstrate that Platr10 helps orchestrate intrachromosomal promoter-enhancer looping and recruits TET1, the enzyme that actively induces DNA demethylation for the initiation of pluripotency. We further show that Platr10 contains an Oct4 binding element that interacts with the Oct4 promoter and a TET1-binding element that recruits TET1. Mutation of either of these two elements abolishes Platr10 activity. Conclusion These data suggest that Platr10 functions as a novel chromatin RNA molecule to control pluripotency in trans by modulating chromatin architecture and regulating DNA methylation in the core stem cell factor network.

Natural killer (NK) cells perform immune surveillance functions in tumors. The antitumor effects of NK cells are closely related to tumor occurrence and development. However, the molecular factors that determine NK cell antitumor activity remain to be characterized. In the present study, we identified a novel long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), NK cell activity-associated lncRNA 1 (NCAL1), and investigated its function in NK cells. NCAL1 was primarily located in NK cell nuclei, where it functioned by activating Gab2, a scaffold protein with an essential role in immune cells. Gab2 positively regulated the killing activity of NK cells. Mechanistically, NCAL1 upregulated Gab2 epigenetically by binding to the Gab2 promoter, which decreased methylation, recruited the transcription factor Sp1, and increased H3K4me3 and H3K27ac levels in the Gab2 promoter. Furthermore, NCAL1 enhanced the cytotoxicity of NK cells toward tumor cells through the Gab2-PI3K-AKT pathway. Thus, NCAL1 potentiates NK cell cytotoxicity and is a promising therapeutic target to improve NK cell therapy.

BackgroundWe previously demonstrated that flurbiprofen increased arterial oxygen partial pressure and reduced intrapulmonary shunts. The present study aims to investigate whether flurbiprofen improves intraoperative regional cerebral oxygen saturation (rScO2) and reduces the incidence of postoperative delirium (POD) in elderly patients undergoing one-lung ventilation (OLV).MethodsOne hundred and twenty patients undergoing thoracoscopic lobectomy were randomly assigned to the flurbiprofen-treated group (n = 60) and the control-treated group (n = 60). Flurbiprofen was intravenously administered 20 minutes before skin incision. The rScO2 and partial pressure of arterial oxygen (PaO2) were recorded during the surgery, and POD was measured by the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) within 5 days after surgery. The study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry with the number ChiCTR1800020032.ResultsCompared with the control group, treatment with flurbiprofen significantly improved the mean value of intraoperative rScO2 as well as the PaO2 value (P < 0.05, both) and significantly reduced the baseline values of the rScO2 area under threshold (AUT) (P < 0.01) at 15, 30, and 60 min after OLV in the flurbiprofen-treated group. After surgery, the POD incidence in the flurbiprofen-treated group was significantly decreased compared with that in the control group (P < 0.05).ConclusionTreatment with flurbiprofen may improve rScO2 and reduce the incidence of POD in elderly patients undergoing thoracoscopic one-lung ventilation surgery for lung cancer.Clinical trial registrationhttp://www.chictr.org/cn/, identifier ChiCTR1800020032.

Objective To evaluate the clinical application and surgical efficacy of the chimeric perforator flap pedicled with the descending branch of the lateral circumflex femoral artery and the lateral thigh muscle flap for the reconstruction of the large area of deep wound in foot and ankle. Methods Clinical data of 32 cases who underwent chimeric anterolateral thigh perforator flap to repair the large area of deep wound of the foot and ankle from January 2015 to December 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. The sizes of the defects ranged from 18 cm × 10 cm to 35 cm × 20 cm, with exposed tendon and bone and/or partial defects and necrosis, contaminations, accompanied by different degrees of infection. Following the radical debridement and VSD, chimeric anterolateral thigh perforator flap was employed to repair the deep wounds according to the position, site and deep‐tissue injury of the soft‐tissue defects. The skin flap and muscle flap were fanned out on the wound, and single‐ or two‐staged split‐thickness skin grafting was performed on the muscle flap. The operation time and blood loss were recorded. The survival and healing conditions of the operational site with chimeric anterolateral thigh perforator flap were evaluated post‐operationally. Complications at both recipient site and donor site were carefully recorded. Results The mean time of the operation was 325.5 min and average blood loss was 424.8 mL. Among the 32 cases, two cases developed vascular crisis, which were alleviated with intensive investigation and treatment; Four cases suffered from partial necrosis of the flap or skin graft on the muscle flap or on the residual local wound, which were improved after treatment of further dressing change and skin grafting. Another four cases experienced post‐traumatic osteomyelitis accompanied by bone defect were treated with simple bone grafting or Mesquelet bone grafting at 6–8 months after wound healing. Postoperatively, the wounds were properly healed, and the infection was effectively controlled without sinus tract forming. Overall, all 32 cases received satisfactory efficacy, without influencing subsequent functional reconstruction, and observed infection during the 12–36 months post‐operational follow‐up. Conclusion The chimeric perforator flap pedicled with the descending branch of the lateral circumflex femoral artery and the lateral thigh muscle flap provides an effective and relative safe procedure for the repair of a large area of deep wound in the foot and ankle, particularly with irregular defect or deep dead space.

Chronic pain is a long-standing unpleasant sensory and emotional feeling that has a tremendous impact on the physiological functions of the body, manifesting itself as a dysfunction of the nervous system, which can occur with peripheral and central sensitization. Many recent studies have shown that a variety of common immune cells in the immune system are involved in chronic pain by acting on the peripheral or central nervous system, especially in the autoimmune diseases. This article reviews the mechanisms of regulation of the sensory nervous system by neutrophils, macrophages, mast cells, B cells, T cells, and central glial cells. In addition, we discuss in more detail the influence of each immune cell on the initiation, maintenance, and resolution of chronic pain. Neutrophils, macrophages, and mast cells as intrinsic immune cells can induce the transition from acute to chronic pain and its maintenance; B cells and T cells as adaptive immune cells are mainly involved in the initiation of chronic pain, and T cells also contribute to the resolution of it; the role of glial cells in the nervous system can be extended to the beginning and end of chronic pain. This article aims to promote the understanding of the neuroimmune mechanisms of chronic pain, and to provide new therapeutic ideas and strategies for the control of chronic pain at the immune cellular level.

Abstract. Background:. Colorectal cancer is harmful to the patient's life. The treatment of patients is determined by accurate preoperative staging. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) played an important role in the preoperative examination of patients with rectal cancer, and artificial intelligence (AI) in the learning of images made significant achievements in recent years. Introducing AI into MRI recognition, a stable platform for image recognition and judgment can be established in a short period. This study aimed to establish an automatic diagnostic platform for predicting preoperative T staging of rectal cancer through a deep neural network. Methods:. A total of 183 rectal cancer patients’ data were collected retrospectively as research objects. Faster region-based convolutional neural networks (Faster R-CNN) were used to build the platform. And the platform was evaluated according to the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Results:. An automatic diagnosis platform for T staging of rectal cancer was established through the study of MRI. The areas under the ROC curve (AUC) were 0.99 in the horizontal plane, 0.97 in the sagittal plane, and 0.98 in the coronal plane. In the horizontal plane, the AUC of T1 stage was 1, AUC of T2 stage was 1, AUC of T3 stage was 1, AUC of T4 stage was 1. In the coronal plane, AUC of T1 stage was 0.96, AUC of T2 stage was 0.97, AUC of T3 stage was 0.97, AUC of T4 stage was 0.97. In the sagittal plane, AUC of T1 stage was 0.95, AUC of T2 stage was 0.99, AUC of T3 stage was 0.96, and AUC of T4 stage was 1.00. Conclusion:. Faster R-CNN AI might be an effective and objective method to build the platform for predicting rectal cancer T-staging. Trial registration:. chictr.org.cn: ChiCTR1900023575; http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=39665.

Mitochondrial dysfunction is a metabolic hallmark of cancer cells. In search of molecular factors involved in this dysregulation in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), we found that the nuclear-encoded long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) MALAT1 (metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1) was aberrantly enriched in the mitochondria of hepatoma cells. Using RNA reverse transcription-associated trap sequencing (RAT-seq), we showed that MALAT1 interacted with multiple loci on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), including D-loop, COX2, ND3, and CYTB genes. MALAT1 knockdown induced alterations in the CpG methylation of mtDNA and in mitochondrial transcriptomes. This was associated with multiple abnormalities in mitochondrial function, including altered mitochondrial structure, low oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), decreased ATP production, reduced mitophagy, decreased mtDNA copy number, and activation of mitochondrial apoptosis. These alterations in mitochondrial metabolism were associated with changes in tumor phenotype and in pathways involved in cell mitophagy, mitochondrial apoptosis, and epigenetic regulation. We further showed that the RNA-shuttling protein HuR and the mitochondria transmembrane protein MTCH2 mediated the transport of MALAT1 in this nuclear-mitochondrial crosstalk. This study provides the first evidence that the nuclear genome-encoded lncRNA MALAT1 functions as a critical epigenetic player in the regulation of mitochondrial metabolism of hepatoma cells, laying the foundation for further clarifying the roles of lncRNAs in tumor metabolic reprogramming.

Reactions of the semi-rigid N,N′-bis(3-pyridyl)terephthalamide (L) with divalent metal salts in the presence of dicarboxylic acids afforded [Cd(L)0.5(1,2-BDC)(H2O)]n (1,2-H2BDC = benzene-1,2-dicarboxylic acid), 1, {[Cd(L)1.5(1,3-BDC)(H2O)]·5H2O}n (1,3-H2BDC = benzene-1,3-dicarboxylic acid), 2a, {[Cd(1,3-BDC)(H2O)3]·2H2O}n, 2b, {[Cd(L)0.5(1,4-BDC)(H2O)2]·H2O}n (1,4-H2BDC = benzene-1,4-dicarboxylic acid), 3, and [Cu(L)0.5(5-tert-IPA)]n (5-tert-IPA = 5-tert-butylbenzene-1,3-dicarboxylic acid), 4, which have been structurally characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction. Complexes 1 and 3 are two-dimensional (2D) layers with the bey and the hcb topologies, and 2a and 2b are one-dimensional (1D) ladder and zigzag chain, respectively, while 4 shows a 3-fold interpenetrated three-dimensional (3D) net with the cds topology. The structures of these coordination polymers containing the semi-rigid L ligands are subject to the donor atom positions and the identity of the dicarboxylate ligands, which are in marked contrast to those obtained from the flexible bis-pyridyl-bis-amide ligands that form self-catenated nets. The luminescence of 1 and 3 and thermal properties of complexes 1, 3, and 4 are also discussed.

According to the design requirements of high-temperature combustion chamber, an advanced shaped hole structure was designed for film cooling. Numerical method was applied in this study to investigate the flow and heat transfer characteristics of shaped holes and compared with those of cylindrical holes. The influence of the forward expansion angle of shaped holes on the flow and heat transfer was studied. The results show that compared to cylindrical holes, the diffused structure of shaped holes decreases the momentum of jet flow, improves the adhesion characteristics of the cooling air film, increases the diffusion of the coolant air outflow and improves the cooling efficiency between adjacent columns of holes in the lateral direction. When the forward expansion angle increases, the expansion section induced the flow vortex, which reduces the radial velocity of coolant flow and enhances the diffusion of cooling air film both in streamwise and spanwise directions. However, as the forward expansion angle increases further, the scale of vortex inside the shaped hole grows. Too large vortex inside the shaped hole increases the coolant eject angle, which weakens the film covering effect. Additionally, the shaped hole results in an increase in lateral spreading and enhances the cooling effect between adjacent columns of the film hole. The enhancement of the film cooling characteristics is due to the change in the shape of the film hole, resulting in the enhancement of the flow vortex, which induces complicated secondary flow.

Abstract. Background. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) has been demonstrated as a better source of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) than plasma for brain tumors. However, it is unclear whether whole exome sequencing (WES) is qualified for detection of ctDNA in CSF. The aim of this study was to determine if assessment of ctDNA in CSF by WES is a feasible approach to detect genomic alterations of glioblastoma. Methods. CSFs of ten glioblastoma patients were collected pre-operatively at the Department of Neurosurgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center. ctDNA in CSF and genome DNA in the resected tumor were extracted and subjected to WES. The identified glioblastoma-associated mutations from ctDNA in CSF and genome DNA in the resected tumor were compared. Results. Due to the ctDNA in CSF was unqualified for exome sequencing for one patient, nine patients were included into the final analysis. More glioblastoma-associated mutations tended to be detected in CSF compared with the corresponding tumor tissue samples (3.56 ± 0.75 vs. 2.22 ± 0.32, P = 0.097), while the statistical significance was limited by the small sample size. The average mutation frequencies were similar in CSF and tumor tissue samples (74.1% ± 6.0% vs. 73.8% ± 6.0%, P = 0.924). The R132H mutation of isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 and the G34V mutation of H3 histone, family 3A (H3F3A) which had been reported in the pathological diagnoses were also detected from ctDNA in CSF by WES. Patients who received temozolomide chemotherapy previously or those whose tumor involved subventricular zone tended to harbor more mutations in their CSF. Conclusion. Assessment of ctDNA in CSF by WES is a feasible approach to detect genomic alterations of glioblastoma, which may provide useful information for the decision of treatment strategy.

Mitophagy is a specialized autophagic pathway responsible for the selective removal of damaged or dysfunctional mitochondria by targeting them to the autophagosome in order to maintain mitochondria quality. The role of mitophagy in tumorigenesis has been conflicting, with the process both supporting tumor cell survival and promoting cell death. Cancer cells may utilize the mitophagy pathway to augment their metabolic requirements and resistance to cell death, thereby leading to increased cell proliferation and invasiveness. This review highlights major regulatory pathways of mitophagy involved in cancer. In particular, we summarize recent progress regarding how nuclear-encoded long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) function as novel epigenetic players in the mitochondria of cancer cells, affecting the malignant behavior of tumors by regulating mitophagy. Finally, we discuss the potential application of regulating mitophagy as a new target for cancer therapy.

Enhanced scattering from local surface plasmon resonance by light has attracted much attention due to its special applications in sensor, cell, and biological imaging . Here, we investigate the ratio of scattering to absorption in bimetallic three-layered nanoshells with different geometrical parameters using quasi-static theory. We show that the ratio of scattering to absorption strongly depends on the inner radius, shell thickness, middle dielectric function, and surrounding medium function. To gain insight into the effect of such geometrical parameters on the plasmonic scattering, we also provide a comparison between silver–dielectric–gold nanoshells and gold–dielectric–silver nanoshells. This work provides an alternative approach to analyze the optical properties of bimetallic three-layered nanoshells with potential applications in sensors and photo-detectors.

Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) is a highly heterogeneous complication of pregnancy with the underlying mechanisms remaining uncharacterized. Dysregulated decidualization is a critical contributor to the phenotypic alterations related to pregnancy complications. To understand the molecular factors underlying RSA, we explored the role of longnoncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the decidual microenvironment where the crosstalk at the fetal–maternal interface occurs. By exploring RNA-seq data from RSA patients, we identified H19, a noncoding RNA that exhibits maternal monoallelic expression, as one of the most upregulated lncRNAs associated with RSA. The paternally expressed fetal mitogen IGF2, which is reciprocally coregulated with H19 within the same imprinting cluster, was also upregulated. Notably, both genes underwent loss of imprinting, as H19 and IGF2 were actively transcribed from both parental alleles in some decidual tissues. This loss of imprinting in decidual tissues was associated with the loss of the H3K27m3 repressive histone marker in the IGF2 promoter, CpG hypomethylation at the central CTCF binding site in the imprinting control center (ICR), and the loss of CTCF-mediated intrachromosomal looping. These data suggest that dysregulation of the H19/IGF2 imprinting pathway may be an important epigenetic factor in the decidual microenvironment related to poor decidualization.

Abstract Currently, preliminary results have confirmed the existence of receptor-interacting protein kinase 3 (RIPK3) and mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL)-dependent necroptosis of pancreatic acinar cells during early acute pancreatitis (AP), which might be a potential target for the effective regulation of necroinflammatory injury. However, the exact effect of receptor-interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK1)-dependent regulated acinar cell necrosis on AP is still uncertain. In our study, we first explored the changes in the degree of local and systemic inflammation in AP rats when the activation of acinar cell RIPK1 was inhibited. The RIPK1 inhibitor Nec-1 was used to treat rats, and the levels of related inflammatory markers, necrosis indicators and apoptotic indicators were measured. Changes in pancreatic nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) and aquaporin 8 (AQP8) expression were noted. Next, the expression of AQP8 in AR42J cells was inhibited, and the degree of cell necrosis and inflammatory damage was found to be significantly reduced. Most importantly, we demonstrated that the RIPK1/NF-ĸB/AQP8 axis might be a potential regulatory pathway mediating RIPK1-dependent regulated acinar cell necrosis in early AP. Finally, we used the NF-κB inhibitor PDTC and Nec-1 to treat rats in different groups and measured the degree of pathological pancreatic injury, the activation of RIPK1, and the expression of NF-κB and AQP8. In summary, we hypothesized that there might be a RIPK1/NF-ĸB/AQP8 pathway controlling RIPK1-dependent regulated necrosis of acinar cells in AP, which might be a promising therapeutic target against AP-related injury.

Objective: To investigate the effects of exogenous α-linolenic acid (ALA) on in vitro maturation (IVM) and developmental competence of human oocytes. Methods: Experiment 1 examined the effects of ALA at different concentrations (0 [control], 10, 50, 100, and 200 μmol/L) in the IVM medium on oocyte maturation. Treatment with 50 μmol/L ALA significantly accelerated oocyte maturation (P < 0.05) and resulted in significantly higher mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number compared to the control. Hence, 50 μmol/L ALA was selected for combination with follicular fluid (FF) to investigate oocyte developmental potential. mtDNA of the matured oocyte was analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Experiment 2 investigated the effects of FF with optimal ALA concentration (Group A: ALA + FF + IVM medium) or without ALA (Group B: FF + IVM medium) on oocyte maturation, fertilization, 2 pronuclear cleavage, and embryo and blastocyst development. Malondialdehyde (MDA) content and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were measured for maturation medium from Group A, Group B, and Group C (control group, IVM medium only). Results: Treatment with 50 μmol/L ALA obviously accelerated oocyte maturation (P < 0.05) and resulted in significantly higher mtDNA copy number (P < 0.05) in the matured oocytes compared to the control (0 μmol/L ALA). Supplementation of 50 μmol/L ALA and FF (Group A) obviously increased the total maturation rate than FF-treated group (Group B) which has higher (P < 0.05) total maturation rate than that of Group C. However, no significant differences were observed in fertilization, embryo availability, and blastocyst production among Group A, B, and C. Treatment with 50 μmol/L ALA decreased the level of MDA (P < 0.05), but had no effect on the activity of SOD in the IVM medium. Conclusions: Our results suggested that the treatment with 50 μmol/L ALA during IVM improves maturation in human oocytes. It is also likely to improve embryo availability and blastocyst formation. This might be associated with the alteration of mtDNA replication (increased mtDNA copy number) and the reduction of oxidative stress (reduced MDA level).

Due to physical collisions and electron transfer between the working electrode and conductive nano-materials, electrochemical reactions can occur on the surface of both. Here, we explore the use of an electrochemically assisted sol–gel deposition technique (EAT) to modify the surface of nanomaterials. Taking graphene as an example, the fabricated free-standing graphene–silica nanosheet composite exhibits a sandwich structure, with mesoporous silica films covering both sides of the graphene. The thickness of the nanocomposites can be tuned (up to ∼50 nm) by controlling the potential and duration of the deposition, and the concentration of the sol–gel precursor. The approach ensures, uniquely, that the silica films are securely attached to the graphene substrate. This indirect deposition technique could also be used for the surface modification of other nanomaterials. Keywords: Electrodeposition, Collision, Silica, Graphene, Sol–gel

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is highly susceptible to the rhizosphere salinity than other cereals. High sensitivity has been observed, mainly at vegetative and reproductive stages in rice. It is the duty of plant physiologists to comprehend the growth, development, and physiological processes of rice plants under stress. This paper includes the overview of rice growth and developmental processes influenced by salt stress and the regulation pathways involved in these processes. It also includes the promising salt tolerance strategies, i.e., genetic modification techniques, agronomic practices to improve rice growth, yield, and role of phytohormones and their management, especially inhibition of ethylene biosynthesis by using inhibitors 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP). Rice cultivation may be a first choice for improvement of salt tolerance through plant growth regulators and improved cultivation techniques. This study will significantly improve the understanding toward low rice grain yield and poor rice resistance under salt stress and will also stream scientific knowledge for effective utilization of salt affected soils by using different regulating ways.