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Distinguishing similar actions has been a challenging challenge in skeleton‐based action recognition. Since the joint coordinates in these actions are similar, it is difficult to accomplish the recognition task using traditional joint features. To address this issue, the use of angle features to capture subtle nuances in various body parts, along with a critical angle enhancement module that assigns weights to different angle feature representations for a given action are proposed, highlighting the critical angle feature representation. The approach is evaluated using a three‐stream ensemble method on three large action recognition datasets, NTU‐RGB+D, NTU‐RGB+D 120, and Kinetics‐400. The experimental results demonstrate that incorporating angular information can effectively complement joint and skeletal features, leading to improved recognition of similar actions and enhanced model performance and robustness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perinatal depression has attracted increasing attention. However, a detailed investigation of the network structure of depression is still lacking. We aim to examine the similarities and differences between the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) from a network perspective. A cross-sectional study was conducted from August 2020 to March 2022. We followed the STROBE checklist to report our research. Pregnant women (n = 2484) were recruited. All participants completed the EPDS and PHQ-9. We mainly used network analyses for statistical analysis and constructed two network models: the EPDS and PHQ-9 models. The detection rates of prenatal depression measured by the EPDS and PHQ-9 were 30.2 % and 28.2 %, respectively. In the EPDS network, the EPDS8 'sad or miserable' node (strength = 1.2161) was the most central node, and the EPDS10 'self-harming' node (strength = 0.4360) was the least central node. In the PHQ-9 network, the PHQ4 'fatigue' node (strength = 0.9815) was the most central node, and PHQ9 'suicide' was the least central symptom (strength = 0.5667). For both models, 'sad' acted as an important central symptom. Psychological symptoms may be more important in assessing depression using the EPDS, while physical symptoms may be more influential in assessing depression using the PHQ-9. For both the EPDS and PHQ-9, "sad" was an important central symptom, suggesting that it may be the most important target for further maternal depression interventions in the future. • We can focus on pregnant women with prominent psychological or physical symptoms according to the results of the EPDS and develop targeted treatment and nursing measures to better help pregnant women maintain positive attitudes through the perinatal period. The implications of this study are: • Psychological symptoms may be more important when assessing maternal depression using the EPDS, while physical symptoms may be more influential when assessing depression with the PHQ-9. • Attention should be paid to pregnant women with not only psychological symptoms of depression but also physical symptoms, such as fatigue, sleep and appetite changes, as they may suffer from prenatal depression. • In addition to those for cognitive-affective symptoms, the treatment and nursing measures for physical symptoms such as fatigue may also contribute to the treatment of prenatal depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Condensable particulate matter (CPM) is different from filterable particulate matter (FPM), which could escape from air pollution control devices (APCDs) and pose a great threat to the environment and human health. Thus, modeling and experimental studies were conducted on CPM particle behavior and removal, in a cold electrode electrostatic precipitator (CE−ESP) coupled with a electric field, temperature field and concentration field. A multi−field force coupling model was then established that was based on the mechanical behavior of particles inside the CE−ESP. The results showed that temperature field was beneficial to depositing small size particles and that, the greater the temperature gradient, the higher CPM's removal efficiency. While the electric field tended to gather larger size particles, the greater the voltage provided, the higher the removal efficiency for CPM and FPM. In the multi−field, the augmented coagulation and the removal efficiencies of both CPM and FPM increased significantly, reaching 89% and 98%, respectively. Subsequently, experiments were conducted by a self−made CE−ESP device, which showed the removal efficiencies of CE−ESP of a CPM in a multi−field were 91% and 81% for a coal−fired power plant and a waste incineration plant, respectively. This research could make a great contribution to CPM condensation, aggregation and removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mitochondria, which serve as the fundamental organelle for cellular energy and metabolism, are closely linked to the growth and survival of cancer cells. This study aims to identify and assess Sideroflexin1 (SFXN1), an unprecedented mitochondrial gene, as a potential prognostic biomarker for lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Methods: The mRNA and protein levels of SFXN1 were investigated based on the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) LUAD dataset, and then validated by real-time quantitative PCR, Western Blotting and immunohistochemistry from our clinical samples. The clinical correlation and prognostic value were evaluated by the TCGA cohort and verified via our clinical dataset (n = 90). The somatic mutation, drug sensitivity data, immune cell infiltration and single-cell RNA sequencing data of SFXN1 were analyzed through public databases. Results: SFXN1 was markedly upregulated at both mRNA and protein levels in LUAD, and high expression of SFXN1 were correlated with larger tumor size, positive lymph node metastasis, and advanced clinical stage. Furthermore, SFXN1 upregulation was significantly associated with poor clinical prognosis. SFXN1 co-expressed genes were also analyzed, which were mainly involved in the cell cycle, central carbon metabolism, DNA repair, and the HIF-1α signaling pathway. Additionally, SFXN1 expression correlated with the expression of multiple immunomodulators, which act to regulate the tumor immune microenvironment. Results also demonstrated an association between SFXN1 expression and increased immune cell infiltration, such as activated CD8 + T cells, natural killer cells (NKs), activated dendritic cells (DCs), and macrophages. LUAD patients with high SFXN1 expression exhibited heightened sensitivity to multiple chemotherapies and targeted drugs and predicted a poor response to immunotherapy. SFXN1 represented an independent prognostic marker for LUAD patients with an improved prognostic value for overall survival when combined with clinical stage information. Conclusions: SFXN1 is frequently upregulated in LUAD and has a significant impact on the tumor immune environment. Our study uncovers the potential of SFXN1 as a prognostic biomarker and as a novel target for intervention in LUAD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although targeted therapies and immunotherapy have achieved significant clinical benefits in patients with certain pathological types of lung cancer. However, prognosis for patients with lung adenocarcinoma still remains unsatisfactory. It is of extremely importance to find ideal prognostic indicators to predict the prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma patients, especially for patients with early and locally advanced-stage lung adenocarcinoma. The purpose of this study is to elucidate the significance of Insulin-like growth factor receptor 1 (IGFR1) and Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) expression in predicting progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in patients with early and locally advanced-stage lung adenocarcinoma. Methods: In this study, IGFR1 and VEGF-A expression on 119 specimens of patients early and locally advanced-stage lung adenocarcinoma were analyzed by immunohistochemistry with an H-score system. Results: Both high IGFR1 expression and VEGF-A expression patients were resulted in 59 (49.6%) separately. The numbers and proportions of IGFR1−&VEGF-A− subgroup, IGFR1−&VEGF-A+ subgroup, IGFR1+&VEGF-A− subgroup and IGFR1+&VEGF-A+ subgroup are 23 (19.3%), 37 (31.1%), 37 (31.1%) and 22 (18.5%) respectively. High IGFR1 expression was significantly associated with both poor PFS and OS of all patients in a univariate analysis. Multivariable analysis showed that patients with IGFR1+&VEGF-A+ expression exhibited a worst PFS and OS in the subgroup of lung adenocarcinoma patients with EGFR mutation. Conclusions: These results suggest that IGFR1+&VEGF-A+ is expected to be a disadvantageous factor for prognosis in the subgroup of EGFR mutation in patients with early and locally advanced-stage lung adenocarcinoma. What's more, this study may provide the theoretical possibility to screen optimal population for a combination therapy with anti-VEGF and anti-IGFR1 in patients with early and locally advanced-stage lung adenocarcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) has an important role in living organisms, and its detection is of great importance in medical, chemical, and food safety applications. This review provides a comparison of different types of Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) sensors for H2O2 and related substances with respect to their detection limits, which are of interest due to high sensitivity compared to conventional sensors. According to the latest research report, this review focuses on the sensing mechanism of different sensors and summarizes the linear range, detection limits, and cellular applications of new SERS sensors, and discusses the limitations in vivo and future prospects of SERS technology for the detection of H2O2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CRISPR-Cas systems endow the bacterial and archaeal species with adaptive immune mechanisms to fend off invading phages and foreign plasmids. The class 2 type VI CRISPR/Cas effector Cas13d has been harnessed to confer the protection against RNA viruses in diverse eukaryotic species. However a vast number of different viruses can potentially infect the same host plant resulting in mixed infection, thus necessitating the generation of crops with broad-spectrum resistance to multiple viruses. Here we report the repurposing of CRISPR/Cas13d coupled with an endogenous tRNA-processing system (polycistronic tRNA-gRNA, PTG) to target the multiple potato RNA viruses. Expression of Cas13d and four different gRNAs were observed in transgenic potato lines expressing the Cas13d/PTG construct. We show that the Cas13d/PTG transgenic plants exhibit resistance to either PVY, PVS, PVX or PLRV alone or two/three viruses simultaneously by reducing viral accumulation in plant cells. In sum, our findings provide an efficient strategy for engineering crops that can simultaneously resist infection by multiple RNA viruses. CRISPR/Cas13d coupled with an endogenous tRNA-processing system can be used to engineer resistance to multiple RNA viruses in potato. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on a joint model to analyze longitudinal proportional and survival data. We utilize a logit transformation on the longitudinal proportional data and employ a partially linear mixed-effect model. With this model, we estimate the unknown function of time using the B-splines technique. Additionally, we introduce a centered Dirichlet process mixture model (CDPMM) to capture the random effects, allowing for a flexible distribution. The survival data are assumed using a Cox proportional hazard model, and the sharing random effects joint model is developed for the two types of data. We develop a Bayesian Lasso (BLasso) approach that combines the Gibbs sampler and the Metropolis–Hastings algorithm. The proposed method allows for the estimation of unknown parameters and the selection of significant covariates simultaneously. We evaluate the performance of our proposed methods through simulation studies and also provide an illustration of our methodologies using an example from the MA.5 research experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The malignant transformation of hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) in the inflammatory microenvironment is the root cause of hepatocarcinogenesis. However, the potential molecular mechanisms are still elusive. The HPCs subgroup is identified by single‐cell RNA (scRNA) sequencing and the phenotype of HPCs is investigated in the primary HCC model. Bulk RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq) and proteomic analyses are also performed on HPC‐derived organoids. It is found that tumors are formed from HPCs in peritumor tissue at the 16th week in a HCC model. Furthermore, it is confirmed that the macrophage‐derived TWEAK/Fn14 promoted the expression of inhibitor of differentiation‐1 (ID1) in HPCs via NF‐κB signaling and a high level of ID1 induced aberrant differentiation of HPCs. Mechanistically, ID1 suppressed differentiation and promoted proliferation in HPCs through the inhibition of HNF4α and Rap1GAP transcriptions. Finally, scRNA sequencing of HCC patients and investigation of clinical specimens also verified that the expression of ID1 is correlated with aberrant differentiation of HPCs into cancer stem cells, patients with high levels of ID1 in HPCs showed a poorer prognosis. This study provides important intervention targets and a theoretical basis for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) shows excellent effects on relieving clinical symptoms in migraine patients. Nevertheless, the neurological mechanisms of taVNS for migraineurs remain unclear. In recent years, voxel-wise degree centrality (DC) and functional connectivity (FC) methods were extensively utilized for exploring alterations in patterns of FC in the resting-state brain. In the present study, thirty-five migraine patients without aura and thirty-eight healthy controls (HCs) were recruited for magnetic resonance imaging scans. Firstly, this study used voxel-wise DC analysis to explore brain regions where abnormalities were present in migraine patients. Secondly, for elucidating neurological mechanisms underlying taVNS in migraine, seed-based resting-state functional connectivity analysis was employed to the taVNS treatment group. Finally, correlation analysis was performed to explore the relationship between alterations in neurological mechanisms and clinical symptoms. Our findings indicated that migraineurs have lower DC values in the inferior temporal gyrus (ITG) and paracentral lobule than in healthy controls (HCs). In addition, migraineurs have higher DC values in the cerebellar lobule VIII and the fusiform gyrus than HCs. Moreover, after taVNS treatment (post-taVNS), patients displayed increased FC between the ITG with the inferior parietal lobule (IPL), orbitofrontal gyrus, angular gyrus, and posterior cingulate gyrus than before taVNS treatment (pre-taVNS). Besides, the post-taVNS patients showed decreased FC between the cerebellar lobule VIII with the supplementary motor area and postcentral gyrus compared with the pre-taVNS patients. The changed FC of ITG-IPL was significantly related to changes in headache intensity. Our study suggested that migraine patients without aura have altered brain connectivity patterns in several hub regions involving multisensory integration, pain perception, and cognitive function. More importantly, taVNS modulated the default mode network and the vestibular cortical network related to the dysfunctions in migraineurs. This paper provides a new perspective on the potential neurological mechanisms and therapeutic targets of taVNS for treating migraine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) shows excellent effects on relieving clinical symptoms in migraine patients. Nevertheless, the neurological mechanisms of taVNS for migraineurs remain unclear. In recent years, voxel-wise degree centrality (DC) and functional connectivity (FC) methods were extensively utilized for exploring alterations in patterns of FC in the resting-state brain. In the present study, thirty-five migraine patients without aura and thirty-eight healthy controls (HCs) were recruited for magnetic resonance imaging scans. Firstly, this study used voxel-wise DC analysis to explore brain regions where abnormalities were present in migraine patients. Secondly, for elucidating neurological mechanisms underlying taVNS in migraine, seed-based resting-state functional connectivity analysis was employed to the taVNS treatment group. Finally, correlation analysis was performed to explore the relationship between alterations in neurological mechanisms and clinical symptoms. Our findings indicated that migraineurs have lower DC values in the inferior temporal gyrus (ITG) and paracentral lobule than in healthy controls (HCs). In addition, migraineurs have higher DC values in the cerebellar lobule VIII and the fusiform gyrus than HCs. Moreover, after taVNS treatment (post-taVNS), patients displayed increased FC between the ITG with the inferior parietal lobule (IPL), orbitofrontal gyrus, angular gyrus, and posterior cingulate gyrus than before taVNS treatment (pre-taVNS). Besides, the post-taVNS patients showed decreased FC between the cerebellar lobule VIII with the supplementary motor area and postcentral gyrus compared with the pre-taVNS patients. The changed FC of ITG-IPL was significantly related to changes in headache intensity. Our study suggested that migraine patients without aura have altered brain connectivity patterns in several hub regions involving multisensory integration, pain perception, and cognitive function. More importantly, taVNS modulated the default mode network and the vestibular cortical network related to the dysfunctions in migraineurs. This paper provides a new perspective on the potential neurological mechanisms and therapeutic targets of taVNS for treating migraine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims and Objectives: To explore fluctuations in perinatal depression based on physiological, psychological and interpersonal dimensions to analyse risk factors across three time points: in the third trimester and at weeks 1 and 6 postpartum. Background: Pregnant women experience depression at multiple time points and require screening. Studies have shown protective and negative factors related to postpartum depression. Cognitive fusion refers to an individual's emotions and behaviours that are regulated and influenced by that individual's own cognitive overregulation, especially when facing stress. This is an important psychological factor related to depression, but little is known about it in pregnant women. Design: A longitudinal study was conducted from June 2019–July 2020, and the findings are reported following the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines. Methods: Pregnant women (n = 207) were recruited, and a questionnaire survey was performed at 32–34 weeks of pregnancy and at weeks 1 and 6 postpartum. Repeated‐measures analysis of variance was performed to analyse the changes in depression over time. Regression analysis and linear mixed modelling were used to identify risk factors. Pearson's correlation analysis was performed to analyse the relationships between variables. Results: Of the pregnant women, 36.70% experienced antenatal depression and prolonged depression with the onset of postpartum depression (12.21%). Some depressive moods disappeared spontaneously after delivery (47.37%). Perceived stress was the highest risk predictor of postpartum depression (β = 0.332), followed by cognitive fusion (β = 0.178), which remained stable over time and might have been positively related to having a vulnerable personality (0.2 < r < 0.4). Social support plays a positive role in lowering postpartum depression (β = −0.027). Conclusions: Changes in depression were influenced by multiple factors with stability and predictability across time. Psychological dimensions, such as perceived stress and cognitive fusion, are risk factors for developing postpartum depression and antenatal depression. Relevance to clinical practice: Pregnant women can be divided into depressive cohorts according to screening at different time points to provide targeted interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the antifibrotic effect of ZD6474 in human pterygium fibroblasts (HPFs) and angiogenesis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) compared with mitomycin C (MMC). Methods: Pterygium and tenon fibroblasts were isolated from patients undergoing surgery to culture HPFs and human tenon fibroblasts (HTFs). The effects of ZD6474 on HPF, HTF, and HUVEC proliferation and migration were detected using CCK8 and wound-healing assays, respectively. Fibrosis and epithelial–mesenchymal transformation (EMT) were evaluated by western blotting [transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β)1/2 and snail] and immunofluorescence (vimentin and α-smooth muscle actin). The antiangiogenic effect of ZD6474 on HUVECs was assessed using a tube formation assay. To determine the potential mechanism, the expression of phosphorylated AKT (p-AKT) and phosphorylated mTOR (p-mTOR) was evaluated by treatment with ZD6474 via western blotting. Results: ZD6474 robustly inhibited the proliferation and migration of HPFs rather than HTFs compared with those in the MMC group (**P < 0.01). In HPFs, fibrosis and EMT (vimentin, TGF-β1/2, and snail) were significantly reversed by ZD6474. MMC (>50 μg/mL) significantly reduced HTF viability, whereas ZD6474 (<5 μM/mL) did not decrease HTF viability. HUVEC proliferation and migration were clearly decreased, and tube formation was notably interrupted by ZD6474. Activation of p-AKT and p-mTOR was inhibited by ZD6474 treatment of HPFs and HUVECs. Conclusion: ZD6474 is more effective than MMC in reducing fibrosis and EMT in HPFs. In addition, ZD6474 was less toxic to HTFs. ZD6474 also exhibited antiangiogenic effects in HUVECs. This study may aid in the development of novel agents to prevent pterygium recurrence after pterygium excision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. This study is aimed at investigating the difference of meibum chemokines in MGD subjects with different degrees of MGD and the correlations of meibum chemokines with ocular surface parameters. Methods. Twenty MGD subjects (MQ score > 8) and twenty MGD subjects (MQ score ≤ 8) were enrolled to examine ocular surface parameters, including meibomian gland function (MGE, MQ meibograde, and lid margin), tear stability (NIKBUT, FBUT, and LLT), tear secretion (SIT and TMH), OSDI questionnaire, and CFS. These subjects also obtained meibum samples, and then meibum chemokines (MIG, IFN-γ, IL-8, IP-10, and MCP-1) were examined and analyzed the correlations with ocular surface parameters. Results. MIG, IP-10, and MCP-1 were found clearly elevated in MGD subjects with higher MQ score than that in MGD subjects with low MQ score (MIG: p = 0.038 , IP-10: p = 0.019 , MCP-1: p = 0.040). The meibomian function was found mostly positively correlated with level of MIG (MGE: r = 0.600 , p < 0.001 ; MQ: r = 0.579 , p < 0.001) and IP-10 (MGE: r = 0.719 , p < 0.001 ; MQ: r = 0.601 , p < 0.001). The tear stability was found negatively correlated with the level of MIG (NIKBUT: r = − 0.438 , p = 0.005 ; LLT: r = − 0.464 , p = 0.003) and MCP-1 (NIKBUT: r = − 0.425 , p = 0.006 ; LLT: r = − 0.761 , p < 0.001). The OSDI was positively correlated with IL-8, IFN-γ, and MIG. Conclusion. Chemokines in meibum were significantly evaluated in MGD subjects suffering from severe meibomian gland quality. These findings indicate that chemokines play roles in the pathogenesis of MGD, and molecules targeted by chemokines may develop as novel agents for MGD therapy, perhaps through inhibiting inflammation in meibomian glands and microvascular in the eyelid margin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Revealing the effects of drought stress on the photosynthetic characteristics and yield of naked oats (Avena nuda L.) is significant for enhancing the productivity of oats. In this study, a potted experiment consisting of four water levels was conducted in the Bashang area of Hebei Province, China. The drought stress period was established as the continual 8 days during the jointing-heading stage. The aims were to reveal the impacts of drought stress on the photosynthetic characteristics and yield of naked oats during the critical stage. The results showed that the photosynthetic rate (Pn), transpiration rate (Tr), and stomatal conductance (Gs) decreased under all conditions of drought stress. The intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci) decreased under light drought stress, while it increased under moderate and severe drought stress. The initial chlorophyll fluorescence rate (Fo) increased by 9.03–50.92% under drought stress, and the maximum fluorescence rate (Fm) decreased by 8.49–19.73% under drought stress. The photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm) increased by 10.37–24.12% under drought stress. The yields decreased by 9.5–12.7%, 16.8–27.0% and 44.1–47.7% under light, moderate and severe drought stress during the critical stage, respectively. The grains per panicle decreased by 1.7–12.5%, 8.3–24.3% and 32.7–34.2% under light, moderate and severe drought stress conditions, respectively. The 1000-grain weight decreased by 5.7–8.6%, 12.7–14.5% and 16.8–19.1% under light, moderate and severe drought stress conditions, respectively. The panicle numbers did not vary significantly among the different drought stress treatments. The photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance and transpiration all had significant positive relationships with the yield of naked oat (P < 0.01). Parameters of PS II except for Fo all had significant positive relationships with the yield of naked oats (P < 0.05). This study is significant for enhancing the production efficiency of naked oat under drought stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Through a series of experiments of dynamic deformation and destruction under time series loading on an indoor real model bridge, Ground-based real-aperture radar interferometry (GB-InRAR) discovered that before the structure of the bridge was damaged, its amplitude and acceleration increased with the increase of load; After its structure was damaged or cracked, such dynamic characteristics as natural frequency, damping ratio, stiffness and bearing capacity decreased obviously. Moreover, GB-InRAR dynamic load monitoring of Xiangtan Railway Bridge and Inter-city Railway Bridge. In the process of vehicle dynamic load, such important parameters as bridge deflection, natural frequency and damping ratio conform to the bridge loading procedures and dynamic characteristics. The results show that the GB-InRAR can accurately measure the deflection changes, natural vibration frequency and spectrum characteristics of bridges, and it can be used as effective means of the dynamic characteristics analysis in the safety detection and health evaluation of bridges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The malignant transformation of normal resident hepatic stem/progenitor cells has a critical role in hepatocarcinogenesis and the recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We defined such hepatic progenitor cells as hepatoma-initiating cells. An efficient strategy is required to target and kill the hepatoma-initiating cells. We isolated extracellular microparticles (MPs) derived from apoptotic hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) and tested their ability to inhibit hepatocarcinogenesis. Extracellular MPs were isolated from HPCs, hepatocytes and liver tumor cells. Their effects on tumor growth were investigated in rat primary HCC models, in which hepatocarcinogenesis is induced by diethylnitrosamine (DEN). The extracellular MPs derived from apoptotic HPCs, apoptotic hepatocytes and apoptotic liver tumor cells were similar in morphology, diameter and zeta potential. However, they had different antitumor effects. In DEN-exposed rats, only the MPs derived from apoptotic HPCs effectively inhibit hepatocarcinogenesis. In vitro and in vivo analyses confirmed that HPCs preferentially take up MPs derived from apoptotic HPCs compared to MPs from other liver cell types. Proteomic analysis of MPs from apoptotic HPCs showed enrichment of proteins involved in cell death pathways. Thus, HPC-derived MPs contain a death signal to induce the killing of hepatoma-initiating cells. Our findings provide evidence that a death signal encapsulated in HPC-derived extracellular microparticles can efficiently clear hepatoma-initiating cells and prevent hepatocarcinogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a sensitive high-performance liquid chromatography method for zearalenone determination in feeds and grains was established based on the automatic immunomagnetic bead purifier analyzer (KY-AMI-I) for the one-step sample pre-treatment. Various parameters that may affect the analytical performance were investigated. Immunomagnetic bead separation system based on a monoclonal antibody (anti-ZEN antibody-immunomagnetic beads conjugation) was individually prepared for the ZEN purification. Besides, the average recoveries in spiked samples ranged from 75.23 to 102.62%, and the relative standard deviations were between 3.55 and 8.07% (< 10%). The method was used to analyze naturally contaminated positive feedstuff, and the results obtained by this method was in a good agreement with data obtained by immunoaffinity column-high-performance liquid chromatography (IAC-HPLC–FLD). The conformity and correlation of two methods was satisfactory. The comprehensive results showed that the proposed method was shown to be a suitable method for ZEN determination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Safe schaftoside levels for HCECs, RAW cells, and mouse corneas established. • Schaftoside reduced severity of A. fumigatus keratitis in mice. • Schaftoside inhibited neutrophil infiltration and MPO activity. • Schaftoside suppressed TLR4, Myd88, IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 expression. The purpose of this research study was to investigate the impact of schaftoside on Aspergillus fumigatus (A. fumigatus) keratitis and elucidate its underlying mechanisms. In order to establish safe experimental concentrations of schaftoside in human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs), RAW264.7 cells, and mouse models, various techniques were employed including cytotoxicity assay (CCK-8) assay, cell scratch assay, and Draize test. The therapeutic effect of schaftoside was assessed using slit-lamp biomicroscopy, clinical scores, as well as determination of neutrophil infiltration through hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, immunofluorescence (IF) staining, and myeloperoxidase (MPO) assay. The levels of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88), pro-inflammatory mediators interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and IL-6 were determined using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), western blotting, and IF techniques. Schaftoside at a concentration of 160 μM displayed no harmful side effects on HCECs, RAW cells, and mouse corneas, rendering it suitable for further experiments. In a murine fungal keratitis model, schaftoside mitigated the severity of fungal keratitis by inhibiting neutrophil infiltration and reducing MPO activity. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that schaftoside treatment suppressed the upregulation of IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 expression, while also downregulating the expressions of TLR4 as well as MyD88 at both mRNA and protein levels. Schaftoside demonstrated a protective effect against A. fumigatus keratitis by reducing corneal damage through inhibition of neutrophil recruitment and downstream inflammatory cytokines. The anti-inflammatory properties of schaftoside in A. fumigatus keratitis may involve modulation of the TLR4/MyD88 pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper considers no-regret learning for repeated continuous-kernel games with lossy bandit feedback. Since it is difficult to give an explicit model of the utility functions in dynamic environments, the players' actions can only be learned with bandit feedback. Moreover, due to unreliable communication channels or privacy protection, the bandit feedback may be lost or dropped at random. Therefore, we study the asynchronous online learning strategy of the players to adaptively adjust the next actions for minimizing the long-term regret loss. The paper provides a novel no-regret learning algorithm, called Online Gradient Descent with lossy bandits (OGD-lb). We first give the regret analysis for concave games with differentiable and Lipschitz utilities. Then we show that the action profile converges to a Nash equilibrium with probability 1 when the game is also strictly monotone. We further provide the mean-squared convergence rate O N p i − 2 k − 1 / 3 when the game is β -strongly monotone, where N denotes the number of players and p i is the update probability. In addition, we extend the algorithm to the case when the loss probability of the bandit feedback is unknown, and prove its almost sure convergence to Nash equilibrium for strictly monotone games. Finally, we take the resource management in fog computing as an application example, and carry out numerical experiments to empirically demonstrate the algorithm performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mannan is an important renewable resource whose backbone can be hydrolyzed by β-mannanases to generate manno-oligosaccharides of various sizes. Only a few glycoside hydrolase (GH) 113 family β-mannanases have been functionally and structurally characterize. Here, we report the function and structure of a novel GH113 β-mannanase from Bacillus sp. N16-5 (Ba Man113A). Ba Man113A exhibits a substrate preference toward manno-oligosaccharides and releases mannose and mannobiose as main hydrolytic products. The crystal structure of Ba Man113A suggest that the enzyme shows a semi-enclosed substrate-binding cleft and the amino acids surrounding the +2 subsite form a steric barrier to terminate the substrate-binding tunnel. Based on these structural features, we conducted mutagenesis to engineer Ba Man113A to remove the steric hindrance of the substrate-binding tunnel. We found that F101E and N236Y variants exhibit increased specific activity toward mannans comparing to the wild-type enzyme. Meanwhile, the product profiles of these two variants toward polysaccharides changed from mannose to a series of manno-oligosaccharides. The crystal structure of variant N236Y was also determined to illustrate the molecular basis underlying the mutation. In conclusion, we report the functional and structural features of a novel GH113 β-mannanase, and successfully improved its endo -acting activity by using structure-based engineering. • The function and structure of a novel GH113 β-mannanase Ba Man113A was investigated. • Ba Man113A exhibits substrate preference toward oligosaccharides over mannans. • The structure shows a steric barrier at the reducing end of +2 subsite. • Rational design is applied to engineer Ba Man113A to improve specific activity. • The underlying molecular mechanism is elucidated by the structure of variant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aiming at the complex characteristics of the sequential logic control system design, such as X-D diagram and karnaugh map method, a design method based on stepper module was proposed, the procedure of which does not need to be checked and corrected. The design of different pneumatic circuits was carried out with the automatic drilling machine as the application object. First, a stepper module composed of a two-position three-way valve and a dual-pressure valve was constructed, and its structure principle was analyzed in detail. Next, three kinds of stroke programs were listed by analyzing the working process of automatic drilling machine, which were multi-cylinder single reciprocating, multi-cylinder multi reciprocating and multi-cylinder multi-section reciprocating stroke program, and the pneumatic circuit control system was designed by the stepper module method. Finally, the pneumatic circuit was simulated and analyzed using the software Fluid-SIM. The simulation results showed that each actuator can complete the corresponding actions according to the design requirements, which verified the correctness and reliability of the stepper module design method. This work would provide a fast and effective method for the design of the sequential logic control system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Methods Results Conclusions To investigate the role of CD47 expression and its relationship with tumor‐resident macrophages, specifically at the tumor margin, in patients with type II endometrial cancer. This study aims to elucidate whether CD47 could serve as a prognostic marker and to understand the dynamics between CD47 and macrophages, which could inform new therapeutic strategies.A retrospective cohort study was conducted involving 75 patients of type II endometrial. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed to assess CD47 expression and macrophage markers (CD68 and CD163).The study found no direct correlation between CD47 expression levels and overall survival (p = 0.32), challenging its role as an independent prognostic marker in type II endometrial cancer. The higher expression of CD47 had significantly less incidence of endometrioid carcinoma G3 (p = 0.047). The negative correlation between CD47 H‐score and the density of CD68‐positive macrophages at tumor margin was statistically significant (p = 0.049). A high density of CD68‐positive macrophages at the tumor margin but a low density of CD163‐positive macrophages at the tumor margin were associated with poorer prognosis (p = 0.036).The complex interaction between CD47 and macrophages, particularly at the tumor margin, suggests new avenues for targeted therapy in type II endometrial cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The present study aims to determine the molecular mechanism mediated by RAD51 antisense RNA 1 (RAD51-AS1) in ovarian cancer (OvCA). Methods: The data associated with RAD51-AS1 in OvCA were obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Relative expression of RAD51-AS1 was detected. Determination of cell proliferation, metastasis, and invasion was performed by cell counting, colony formation, would-healing, and transwell invasion assays. Protein levels were detected by western blotting. The molecular mechanism mediated by RAD51-AS1 was predicted by bioinformatics analysis and verified by dual-luciferase reporter assays. Subcutaneous tumorigenesis models were used to confirm the function of RAD51-AS1 in vivo. Results: Data from TCGA and GEO showed that RAD51-AS1 was associated with poor prognosis in OvCA patients and DNA repair, cell cycle, focal adhesion, and apoptosis in SKOV3.ip cells. High levels of RAD51-AS1 were detected in OvCA cells. Overexpressing RAD51-AS1 enhanced the proliferative, invading, and migratory capabilities of OvCA cells in vitro while silencing RAD51-AS1 exhibited the opposite effects. Mechanically, RAD51-AS1 elevated eukaryotic initiation factor 5A2 (EIF5A2) expression as a sponge for microRNA (miR)-140-3p. Finally, the role of RAD51-AS1 was verified by subcutaneous tumorigenesis models. Conclusion: RAD51-AS1 promoted OvCA progression by the regulation of the miR-140-3p/EIF5A2 axis, which illustrated the potential therapeutic target for OvCA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • On-the-fly machine learning force field simulations of liquid Al on α-Al 2 O 3 surfaces. • Solid-like and confined liquid Al layers formed at the interface. • A system with more than 1, 000 atoms were simulated. • Periodic boundary conditions affect the ordering of the liquid atoms at the interface. The atomic structure of the liquid Al/α-Al 2 O 3 interface was investigated using on-the-fly machine learning force field based on first-principles calculations. We found that three different terminal surfaces of the liquid Al/α-Al 2 O 3 {0 0 0 1} systems exhibited the same interfacial characteristics. Liquid Al atoms at the interface formed an Al-rich layer and several ordering layers. Analysis of mean square displacement and vibrational density of states indicated that the characteristics of Al-rich layer at the interface is close to solid, while liquid ordering layers possess a confined liquid nature. Furthermore, we simulated a larger system with more than 1000 atoms, which showed that periodic boundary conditions caused size effects that affected the ordering of the liquid atoms at the interface. Hence, the present study has the potential to generate substantial interest and inspire further research into the utilization of machine-learned force fields for simulating various liquid–solid interfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple and effective mechanical parts maintenance approach with lower cost is urgently needed by the cost-sensitive manufactures for traditional excavators (HE). This paper proposes maintenance strategy for hydraulic cylinders (HC) of HE with energy regeneration and recovery system (ERRS). Reliability analysis and FMEA of historical failure data are applied to make maintenance strategy. In this study, the failure data required for reliability analysis are collected from the manufacturers and users over two and a half years, Excel is used as statistical tool, Minitab is used for parameter estimation, and Kolmogorov–Smirnov test is used to reject or accept the hypothesis of the distribution model. The reliability parameters R(t), Rset, and R∗(t) are determined and parameter β∗ is the reference value for making countermeasures and maintenance policies properly for the failure modes of the new HC of HE with ERRS. The purpose of this paper is to make proper maintenance policies and to maintain a high availability level and fulfill the user's needs for HC, which also paves the way for further reliability study about ERRS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Podocyte injury is the primary cause of glomerular injury in diabetic nephropathy (DN). Advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs), the triggers and markers of oxidative stress in DN, have been linked to podocyte damage. However, the underlying mechanism is not yet clear. Here, we investigated the potential role of FOXO3a, a key transcription factor in the response to stress, in mediating AOPPs‐induced podocyte injury. We found that FOXO3a expression was increased in the glomeruli of kidney biopsies from patients with DN and it was positively correlated with proteinuria. The serum from patients with DN significantly increased FOXO3a and its downstream genes FasL and Bim, thereby inducing the high level of cleaved caspase3 and the loss of nephrin and podocin expressions in podocytes. Blockade of AOPPs signaling by a neutralizing antibody against the receptor of advanced glycation end products (αRAGE) abolished the effect of DN serum on podocytes, confirming the pathogenic role of AOPPs in DN serum. Downregulation of FOXO3a decreased AOPPs‐induced podocyte apoptosis and restored the levels of podocyte markers nephrin and podocin, and upregulation of FOXO3a exacerbated these changes in podocytes after AOPPs treatment. Furthermore, FOXO3a specifically activated proapoptotic genes in podocytes only in the presence of AOPPs. Mechanistically, AOPPs increased the FOXO3a protein levels by inhibiting their autophagic degradation in a ROS/mTOR‐dependent manner. Moreover AOPPs activated the accumulated FOXO3a by maintaining FOXO3a in the nucleus, and this process was dependent on ROS‐mediated AKT signaling deactivation. These studies suggest that FOXO3a plays a critical role in mediating AOPPs‐induced podocyte injury and reveal a new mechanistic linkage of oxidative stress, FOXO3a activation and podocyte injury in DN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dust cake is critical to improve the fine particle collection efficiency in the gas-solid separation process of the granular bed filter (GBF). In this work, the dust cake formation and the corresponding filtration characteristics in a cyclone-granular bed filter (C-GBF) were investigated by experiments under a constant-velocity filtering condition. It was found that cake filtration, deep-bed filtration and the corresponding transitional phenomena could be observed in the C-GBF. A critical porosity was defined to identify the transition from cake filtration to deep-bed filtration. A following parametric study showed that a higher filtration gas velocity could increase the critical porosity and made it more difficult to form a dust cake. It was also demonstrated that the critical porosity was little affected by the dust concentration. However, the time point of the transition of different filtration modes was earlier with a higher dust concentration. The inlet gas velocity ultimately resulted in the different dust concentrations into the GBF. The similar dynamic processes of cake formation were obtained for different granular sizes. These results provided a deeper understanding of the dynamic behaviors of cake formation and filtration mode transition, which played an important role in the design and the scaling-up of the C-GBF filtration systems. Unlabelled Image • The dynamic process of cake formation in the cyclone-granular bed filter was obtained. • A critical porosity was defined to identify the filtration modes transition. • Cake filtration, deep-bed filtration and the transitional phenomena were observed. • It was more difficult to form a dust cake with a higher critical porosity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

G‐quadruplex DNA show structural polymorphism, leading to challenges in the use of selective recognition probes for the accurate detection of G‐quadruplexes in vivo. Herein, we present a tripodal cationic fluorescent probe, NBTE, which showed distinguishable fluorescence lifetime responses between G‐quadruplexes and other DNA topologies, and fluorescence quantum yield (Φf) enhancement upon G‐quadruplex binding. We determined two NBTE‐G‐quadruplex complex structures with high Φf values by NMR spectroscopy. The structures indicated NBTE interacted with G‐quadruplexes using three arms through π–π stacking, differing from that with duplex DNA using two arms, which rationalized the higher Φf values and lifetime response of NBTE upon G‐quadruplex binding. Based on photon counts of FLIM, we detected the percentage of G‐quadruplex DNA in live cells with NBTE and found G‐quadruplex DNA content in cancer cells is 4‐fold that in normal cells, suggesting the potential applications of this probe in cancer cell detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

G‐quadruplex DNA show structural polymorphism, leading to challenges in the use of selective recognition probes for the accurate detection of G‐quadruplexes in vivo. Herein, we present a tripodal cationic fluorescent probe, NBTE, which showed distinguishable fluorescence lifetime responses between G‐quadruplexes and other DNA topologies, and fluorescence quantum yield (Φf) enhancement upon G‐quadruplex binding. We determined two NBTE‐G‐quadruplex complex structures with high Φf values by NMR spectroscopy. The structures indicated NBTE interacted with G‐quadruplexes using three arms through π–π stacking, differing from that with duplex DNA using two arms, which rationalized the higher Φf values and lifetime response of NBTE upon G‐quadruplex binding. Based on photon counts of FLIM, we detected the percentage of G‐quadruplex DNA in live cells with NBTE and found G‐quadruplex DNA content in cancer cells is 4‐fold that in normal cells, suggesting the potential applications of this probe in cancer cell detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biological function of non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma has been widely accepted in several types of cancer. We previously developed plasma-activated medium (PAM) for clinical use, and demonstrated that PAM exhibits a metastasis-inhibitory effect on ovarian cancer through reduced MMP-9 secretion. However, the anti-tumor effects of PAM on endometrial cancer remain unknown. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effect of PAM on endometrial cancer cell viability in vitro. Our results demonstrated that AMEC and HEC50 cell viabilities were reduced by PAM at a certain PAM ratio, and PAM treatment effectively increased autophagic cell death in a concentration dependent manner. In addition, we evaluated the molecular mechanism of PAM activity and found that the mTOR pathway was inactivated by PAM. Moreover, our results demonstrated that the autophagy inhibitor MHY1485 partially inhibited the autophagic cell death induced by PAM treatment. These findings indicate that PAM decreases the viability of endometrial cancer cells along with alteration of the mTOR pathway, which is critical for cancer cell viability. Collectively, our data suggest that PAM inhibits cell viability while inducing autophagic cell death in endometrial cancer cells, representing a potential novel treatment for endometrial cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a nano-layered Cu2Se high-performance material is successfully grown using a NaCl-flux method based on the stoichiometric ratios of Cu2Se(NaCl)x (x = 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, and 3.5). X-ray diffraction results show that samples possess an α-phase structure for 1.5 ≤ x ≤ 2.5, whereas samples consist of a mixture of β- and α-phase structures for x ≥ 3. Electron probe microanalysis results present that almost no Na or Cl atoms were found in all the samples. Meanwhile, the actual composition is close to the nominal composition of Cu2Se when 1.5 ≤ x ≤ 2.5, whereas it deviates from the nominal composition when x ≥ 3. The valence values of Cu and Se atoms are +1 and −2 in the sample, respectively. Transmission electron microscopy results prove that the crystals prepared using the NaCl-flux method have a good quality. The field emission scanning electron microscopy image shows that the samples prepared using the NaCl-flux method have a stacking nano-layered structure with an average thickness of approximately 110 nm. These thin lamellar crystals have several grain boundaries, which can effectively scatter the phonon and thus result in ultra-low lattice thermal conductivity. Cu2Se(NaCl)2.5 exhibits the best thermoelectric performance among all the samples because it has the lowest thermal conductivity. The maximum ZT value reaches 1.42 at 700 K, which is much higher than those prepared using fast melt-quenching (∼0.88 at 700 K), spark plasma sintering (∼0.8 at 700 K) and high-temperature and high-pressure synthesis (∼1.13 at 700 K). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An innovative composite wall with high-strength manufactured sand concrete was proposed. • Four quasi-static tests on composite walls were conducted. • The effects of different parameters on the seismic behaviour of walls were studied. • A design approach considering the confinement effect of CFST columns is proposed. Reinforced concrete (RC) walls have been widely used in tall building construction to resist lateral loads. However, RC walls behave low ductility and limited deformation capacity under high axial force ratio. Due to the brittle behaviour of high-strength concrete, it was seldom used in RC walls though it has a vast of merits compared with normal-strength concrete. To further push up the limit of concrete strength, i.e., beyond 80 MPa in practical wall construction and to figure out a possible alternative of river sand due to the sustainability and environmental friendly requirement, an innovative wall, namely ring-stirrup concrete-filled-steel-tube (CFST) composite wall with high-strength manufactured sand concrete is proposed. The proposed composite wall consists of two CFST columns embedded at each boundary element and several stirrups in the form of continuous ring along the entire section. A series of quasi-static tests based on orthogonal experimental design method (Taguchi method) are conducted to investigate the seismic behaviour of the composite walls. The experimental parameters are axial force ratio, steel ratio in CFST columns and volume ring-stirrup ratio. From the experimental tests, it is concluded that the proposed confining schemes are highly effective in improving the seismic behaviour of the walls. Moreover, the effects of these three parameters on the peak strength, ductility and energy dissipation capacity of the walls have been investigated. Finally, a design approach considering the confinement effect of CFST columns is proposed and verified to evaluate the lateral load-carrying capacity of the proposed walls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, α-Cu 2 Se single crystal with space group C 2/ c was prepared by the Bi-flux method according to the stoichiometric ratio of Cu 2 Se (1+ x) Bi 3 (x = 0, 0.01, 0.02, 0.03). All samples involve hole conduction and carrier concentration increases with the increase of Se content. The valence of Bi atom is +3 in the sample, and the solubility limit of Bi atom is approximately 0.012% in Cu 2 Se. The crystal cell volume of all samples is larger than that of standard α -Cu 2 Se for the larger ion radius of Bi3+ than Cu+. In addition, the crystal cell volume of the samples decreases with the increase of Se content because of more Cu vacancies caused by excessive Se. The transmission electron microscopy image and the corresponding area electron diffraction pattern show that the prepared samples have a complete crystal structure. Eventually, the single crystal α -Cu 2 Se 1.01 sample obtains the highest power factor of 1.53 × 10−3 W m−1 K−2 at 690 K. Thermogravimetric-differential thermal analysis shows that no weight loss occurred below the melting point. After three continuous thermal cycles, the value of power factor drops down to ∼0.04 × 10−3 W m−1 K−2 at 660 K. In comparison with polycrystalline sample prepared by hot pressing, the thermal stability is improved obviously. • Single crystalline α -Cu 2 Se samples were prepared by Bi-flux method. • The carrier concentration of the material is modulated by hole. • Power factor was enhanced significantly compared with polycrystalline α -Cu 2 Se. • The samples prepared by Bi-flux method possess good thermal stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is important to allocate a reliability goal for the hydraulic excavator in the early design stage of the new system. There are some effective methods for setting reliability target and allocating its constituent subsystems in the field of aerospace, electric, vehicles, railways, or chemical system, but until now there is no effective method for the hydraulic excavator or engineering machinery. In this paper, an approach is proposed which combines with the conventional reliability allocation methods for setting reliability goals and allocating the subsystem and parts useful in the early design stage of the hydraulic excavator newly developed. It includes Weibull analysis method, modified Aeronautical Radio Inc. (ARINC) method, and modified systematic failure mode and effect analysis (FMEA) method. After completing reliability allocation, it is necessary to organize the designers and experts to evaluate the rationality of the reliability target through FEMA analysis considering feasibility of the improvement technically for the part which was new developed or had fault in its predecessor. The proposed approach provides an easy methodology for allocate a practical reliability goal for the hydraulic excavator capturing the real life behavior of the product. It proposes a simple and unique way to capture the improvement of the subsystems or components of the hydraulic excavator. The proposed approach could be extended to consider other construction machinery equipment and have practicality value to research excellent mechanical product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is important to allocate a reliability goal for the hydraulic excavator in the early design stage of the new system. There are some effective methods for setting reliability target and allocating its constituent subsystems in the field of aerospace, electric, vehicles, railways, or chemical system, but until now there is no effective method for the hydraulic excavator or engineering machinery. In this paper, an approach is proposed which combines with the conventional reliability allocation methods for setting reliability goals and allocating the subsystem and parts useful in the early design stage of the hydraulic excavator newly developed. It includes Weibull analysis method, modified Aeronautical Radio Inc. (ARINC) method, and modified systematic failure mode and effect analysis (FMEA) method. After completing reliability allocation, it is necessary to organize the designers and experts to evaluate the rationality of the reliability target through FEMA analysis considering feasibility of the improvement technically for the part which was new developed or had fault in its predecessor. The proposed approach provides an easy methodology for allocate a practical reliability goal for the hydraulic excavator capturing the real life behavior of the product. It proposes a simple and unique way to capture the improvement of the subsystems or components of the hydraulic excavator. The proposed approach could be extended to consider other construction machinery equipment and have practicality value to research excellent mechanical product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an inflammation-related disease. Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) is an important inflammatory factor and it has been confirmed to promote tumor growth and poor prognosis of HCC. Hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) are thought to play an important role in liver injury and repair, as well as tumorigenesis. Chronic inflammation influences HPCs activation as well as differentiation. However, the mechanism is still unclear. In our study, the rat liver cancer model was constructed by DEN treatment, TNFR2-Fc fusion protein variant (TNFR2-FcV) and TNF-α-/- rats were used to detect the role of TNF-α in liver injury and tumorigenesis. And the effect of TNF-α on HPCs activation and proliferation was investigated, and the specific molecular mechanism was explored. We found that TNF-α inhibition and deletion could reduce tumor incidence but shorten survival time by increasing apoptosis and decreasing proliferation of hepatocytes. Further analysis indicated that TNF-α knochdown cloud inhibit HPCs activation and proliferation through TNFR2/STAT3 signaling pathway. And clinically TNF-α expression was correlated to HPCs activation and HCC recurrences. Our work suggested that TNF-α played a key role in liver injury and tumorigenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytogenic hillocks are a type of wind-deposited biological micro-topography exhibiting a bulging shape under plant clusters in arid regions. In this study, we quantitatively measured the phenotypic characteristics of phytogenic hillocks, the soil particle size distribution in phytogenic hillocks and bare surfaces, and the sediment particle size distribution in hillocks of three heights under different grazing treatments. The results showed that the proportion of dense cluster phytogenic hillocks in the no grazing treatment was higher than in the moderate grazing treatment, and the proportion of scattered cluster phytogenic hillocks under moderate grazing was higher than under no grazing. The total area of dense cluster phytogenic hillocks under no grazing was higher than under heavy grazing and under moderate grazing. For the scattered cluster phytogenic hillocks, the total area was greatest under moderate grazing, followed by heavy grazing and, finally, no grazing. For single hillocks, grazing had a significant impact on the width of dense cluster phytogenic hillocks, while the heavy grazing treatment had a significant impact on the height of scattered cluster phytogenic hillocks. The results for windblown sediment showed that the only significant difference among grazing treatments occurred at a height of 2-8 cm. Grazing changed the relationships among the phenotypic characteristics of phytogenic hillocks, the soil particle size of phytogenic hillocks, and the particle size of wind-deposited sediments. Our results suggested that grazing increased the proportion of scattered cluster phytogenic hillocks and caused the relationship between somewhat bare land and phytogenic hillocks to change from symbiosis to competition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hematopoietic lineage cell‑specific protein 1 (HS1) is a 75‑kDa intracellular protein that is expressed primarily in hematopoietic cells. Several previous studies have demonstrated the association between HS1 expression and a poor prognosis in hematopoietic malignancies; however, in solid tumors, no studies not been reported. The present study examined the distribution and expression of HS1 in human epithelial ovarian carcinoma (EOC) to determine its clinical significance. Paraffin sections were obtained from EOC tissues and immunostained with HS1 antibody, and then the staining intensities were evaluated. Overall survival (OS) was determined using the Kaplan‑Meier estimator method, and multivariate analysis was performed using the Cox proportional hazards analysis. In total, 195 patients with EOC (median age, 56 years) were enrolled into the present study. HS1 immunoreactivity was categorized based on expression levels: Low (89/195; 45.6%) and high (106/195; 54.4%). Results demonstrated no association between expression level(s) and any clinicopathological parameter including age, International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) staging, type of chemotherapy or type of surgery received. The 5‑year OS rates of patients who demonstrated low (n=89) and high (n=106) HS1 expression were 90.4 and 66.7%, respectively. The OS times for patients with high HS1 expression were significantly shorter compared with those for patients exhibiting low HS1 expression (P=0.0065). Results obtained from the multivariate analysis demonstrated that the FIGO stage and the amount of HS1 expressed were significant independent prognostic markers for poorer OS (hazard ratio, 3.539; 95% confidence interval, 1.221‑12.811; P=0.0187). High HS1 expression levels may serve as a useful biomarker in patients with EOC who are likely to exhibit an unfavorable clinical outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adenosine 5′-triphosphate (ATP), one of the most widely known small natural biological molecules, is a multifunctional molecule existing in living organisms and plays an important role in many biological processes. In this work, we have developed an aptamer-based ligation-triggered rolling circle amplification strategy for ATP detection. Based on ATP aptamer, phosphorylated single oligonucleotide could be specifically ligated and circularized in the presence of ATP. Then branched rolling circle amplification (BRCA) was used as a signal amplification method for the analysis of ATP. Due to the high binding affinity and specificity of ATP aptamer, the proposed method showed significant advantages in high sensitivity and excellent selectivity. In addition, the selectivity was further improved in the ligation step by T4 ligase, it can also distinguish ATP from other adenosine analogues. Furthermore, this simple and facile method could be used to detect ATP in complex biological matrix, cell lysates, and the detection limit was as low as five cells. Moreover, the strategy realized the visualization of ATP level in situ and providing the location of ATP at single-cell level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Senile dementia is a degenerative disease of the nervous system associated with cognitive impairments, memory disorders, executive dysfunctions, cognitive decline and dementia. Previous reports suggested that simvastatin presents ameliorative effects in the progression of senile dementia. However, the mechanism underlying simvastatin-mediated improvements of cognitive competence during the progression of senile dementia remains to be elucidated. In the present study, a potential mechanism underlying simvastatin activity in hippocampal cells, was investigated. Results of the present study demonstrated that simvastatin significantly improved cognitive impairments, memory competence, amyloid plaques, loss of neurons and synapses, neurofibrillary tangles and oxidative damage in experimental rats. Results of the present study demonstrated that administration of simvastatin regulates superoxide dismutase, reactive oxygen species, catalase and glutathione in oxidative stress processes in hippocampal cells. Apoptosis of hippocampal cells was suppressed by simvastatin treatment in rats with senile dementia. Notably, the administration of simvastatin inhibited activating transcription factor-6-mediated extracellular signal-regulated kinase/AKT serine/threonine kinase (ERK/AKT) signaling pathway in hippocampal cells. Taken together, the preclinical results of the present study indicate that simvastatin is efficient in preventing memory lapse and inhibiting apoptosis of hippocampal cells via the ERK/AKT signaling pathway, which may in the future improve cognitive decline and dementia in patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • AA, 5-HMF, CML, CEL, 3-DG, GO and MGO were quantitated in 44 commercial nuts. • They include 10 walnuts, 8 almonds, 12 cashews, 4 hazelnuts,4 pistachios and 6 sunflower seeds. • Sunflower seeds had the highest content of heat-induced hazards followed by pistachios, cashews, almonds, walnuts and hazelnuts. • Sugar and deep processing might promote the formation of heat-induced hazards especially 3-DG and 5-HMF. The purpose was to investigate the contents of heat-induced hazards by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) in 44 commercial nuts. Results showed that content ranges of Acrylamide (AA), 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF), Nε-carboxymethyl-lysine (CML), Nε-carboxyethyl-lysine (CEL), 3-Deoxyglucosone (3-DG), Glyoxal (GO), and Methylglyoxal (MGO) were ND-123.57 µg/kg, 0.57–213.42 mg/kg, 3.18–18.67 mg/kg, 3.98–57.85 mg/kg, 1.5–133.86 mg/kg, 0.45–1.59 mg/kg and 0.29–13.84 mg/kg, respectively. Sunflower seeds contained more heat-induced hazards followed by pistachios, cashews, almonds, walnuts and hazelnuts. The content of 5-HMF was positively correlated with the content of 3-DG. CML exhibited positive correlation with content of GO while no correlation between CEL and MGO. Higher levels of 3-DG and 5-HMF were observed in nuts produced with sugar and honey. Deep processing had a stronger promoting effect on CML and CEL formation. These data could provide a crucial guide for consumers to select nut products which might reduce heat-induced hazards intake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was aimed to identify a novel metastasis-promoting molecule and elucidate its functional and prognostic roles in cervical cancer. DDIT4 (DNA-damage-inducible transcript 4), a hypoxia-inducible gene, was identified by analyzing multiple microarray databases. The correlation between DDIT4 expression in immunohistochemistry and clinicopathological characteristics in the public database and our cohort was evaluated by statistical analysis. Transwell® assay and wound-healing assay to determine cell migration and invasion were performed. DDIT4 was knocked down using siRNA or lentiviral vectors. The potential downstream pathways of DDIT4 were explored and verified by a gene set enrichment analysis and western blotting. The in vivo metastatic capability was determined with the use of an intraperitoneal injection mouse model. In the analysis of the public database and our cohort, DDIT4 high expression was significantly related to short overall survival and lymph node metastasis in patients with early-stage cervical cancer. The knockdown of DDIT4 attenuated the migration and invasion activity of tumor cells in vitro and reduced the expression of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related proteins and the NF-κB pathway in cervical cancer cells. DDIT4 also promoted tumor progression in the mouse model. Our results indicate that DDIT4 can be a prognostic indicator in cervical cancer and promote lymph node metastasis, augmenting malignancy via the EMT and NF-kB pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new type of composite insulated concrete sandwich (ICS) wall is proposed. The wall consists of a three-dimensional spatial steel wire mesh skeleton, insulating core material and inner and outer concrete layers, all of which form a synergistic composite wall panel to work as the main stress-bearing member in the construction of multistorey high-rise buildings. To analyse the mechanical properties of the wall body, its failure mode was investigated. The wall's hysteresis curve, strength, stiffness and deformation were all analysed through a low reversed cyclic load test on two specimens, followed by an evaluation of its seismic performance. The deformability, failure mode, strain and ultimate bearing capacity of the specimens under the action of axial compression were also studied through an axial compression test on three specimens. The hysteresis test indicated that, in comparison with an ordinary shear wall, the ICS wall, connected through effective construction measures, had superior overall working performance under the same reinforcement ratio and its ductility and energy-dissipating capacity were improved. The results of the axial compression test also confirmed that the ICS wall had excellent axial compressive resistance, bending and deformation resistance, and high stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a facile one-step method combining the pore expansion and the enlargement of the hollow cavity of hollow periodic mesoporous organosilica spheres (HPMOSs) into one step was proposed. Moreover, the whole process for the formation just needs 1 h and involves reaction just under normal pressure and temperature. We further investigate the influence of different expanders and the amount of expanders on pore size and hollow cavity size. The obtained HPMOSs using tridecane as expander possess excellent properties, including good spherical morphology, large hollow structures, radially oriented mesochannels (3.44 nm), uniform particle size (115 nm), high BET surface area (1298 m/g), and large pore volume (1.96 cm/g). In addition, the hollow cavity size and the mesoporous size can be controlled via the modulation of tridecane amount. This method also provides a basis for synthesizing both large pore and the hollow cavity of functionalized, monodispersed HPMOSs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The formation of capillaries in sodium alginate gels is a dissipative process driven by unidirectional diffusion of divalent cations into sodium alginate sols. In the present work, we have prepared 3-1 type porous lead zirconate titanate (PZT) ceramics with oxides (CaO) being doped on a molecular level from the dissipative process by incorporating PZT particles into the sodium alginate gel matrix. By varying the concentration of cation solutions (CaCl 2 ) from 0.5 mol/L to 2.5 mol/L, both the microstructure, doping amount of oxides (CaO) and crystalline phase of the porous PZT ceramics were tailored. Accordingly, increase in the concentration of Ca 2+ has led to a reduction in the relative permittivity ( ε r ) first, and then an increase, while the piezoelectric coefficient ( d 33 and d 31 ) demonstrated an opposite variation tendency. The prepared samples possessed a maximal HFOM value of 4755×10 –15 Pa −1 when the concentration of Ca 2+ was 1.0 mol/L. Addition of CaO was found to improve the compressive strength of porous PZT ceramics, which was preferential to promoting the stability and reliability for application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a great interest in developing and implementing new technologies for real-time evaluation of the uniformity of the construction of asphalt layers. In this study, the researchers developed a system for monitoring and documenting the compaction process of asphalt mixtures in the field. This system is called the compaction monitoring system (CMS). The CMS uses the latest global positioning system technologies and various sensors to provide full coverage of an asphalt layer. The new system can be mounted on any roller in a matter of minutes, and it provides the roller operator with real-time color displays of the number of passes of the entire mat, the compaction effectiveness, and the temperature at the first pass of the roller. This system was successfully tested in a number of field projects. The CMS was able to show some inconsistencies in the compaction process such as unequal compaction converge across the mat, non-uniform compaction effort and temperature, and delay in compaction after placement of asphalt mixtures. The compaction data are stored for post-processing analysis and evaluation. In addition, the researchers validated a proposed method for predicting the density of asphalt pavements in the field. The results showed good correlation between predicted and measured density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Pinellia ternata (Thunb.) Berit., a perennial herb belonging to Araceae, is one of the few medicinal plants to produce purine alkaloids. It is speculated that endophytic bacteria from P. ternata may produce guanosine or inosine. However, there is no report about endophytic bacteria in P. ternata. Objective: In this study, endophytic bacteria were isolated from P. ternata and examined for the first time. This study finds a novel way to increase the yield of P. ternata herb, and to provide some new alkaloid producers. Materials and methods: Plant material includes leaves, tubers, and roots of cultivated and wild P. ternata. The dilutions were smeared onto beef extract-peptone medium and cultured at 28 °C in darkness for 48-72 h. Co-culture treatments were prepared by inoculating 100 mL liquid 1/2 MS medium with bacterial culture broth at concentrations of 0 (control), 0.5%, and 1.5% (v/v). Results: Of the 34 endophytic bacterial colonies isolated from P. ternata leaves, roots, and tubers, five strains were able to produce purine alkaloids . Results from 16s rDNA sequence analysis indicated that the bacteria belonged to Bacillus cereus, Aranicola proteolyticus, Serratia liquefaciens, Bacillus thuringiensis, and Bacillus licheniformis. Co-culture with living Serratia liquefaciens cells increased PLB growth by 58-71%. Co-culture with living Bacillus licheniformis cells increased PLB growth by 4-11%. Conclusion: This study provides a novel way for improving the yield of P. ternata herb, and for the production of purine alkaloids by the fermentation industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DNA methylation has received a large amount of attention due to its close relationship to a wide range of biological phenomena, such as gene activation, gene imprinting, and chromatin stability. Herein, we have designed a hairpin-shaped DNA probe with 5’-C-rich/G-rich-3’ tails and developed a simple and reliable fluorescence turn-off assay for DNA adenine methylation (Dam) methyltransferase (MTase) detection combining site recognition and the fluorescence enhancement of DNA-templated silver nanoclusters (DNA–AgNCs) by guanine-rich DNA sequences. A designed hairpin probe with 5’ CCCTTACCCC and 3’ GGGTGGGGTGGGGTGGGG displays a bright red emission after reacting with AgNO 3 and NaBH 4 . In the presence of Dam MTase, the methylation-sensitive restriction endonuclease Dpn I which has the same recognition site with the Dam MTase can split the probe, freeing the G-rich sequence from the C-rich sequence, thus quenching the fluorescence of DNA–AgNCs. Compared to traditional fluorescent-based methods, this strategy is simple and inexpensive. A linear response to concentrations of Dam MTase which range from 1 U/mL to 100 U/mL and a detection limit of 1 U/mL are obtained without any amplification steps. In addition, we also demonstrate the method can be used for evaluation and screening of inhibitors for Dam MTase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]