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In this work, we demonstrate a hydrogen-terminated diamond (H-diamond) field-effect transistor (FET) with Al2O3/CeB6 gate materials. The CeB6 and Al2O3 films have been deposited by electron beam evaporation technique, sequentially. For the 4/8/12/15 μm gate length (LG) devices, the whole devices demonstrate distinct p-type normally off characteristics, and all the threshold voltage are negative; all the absolute values of leakage current density are 10−4 A/cm2 at a VGS of −11 V, exhibiting a relatively low leakage current density compared with CeB6 FETs, and this further demonstrates the feasibility of the introduction of Al2O3 to reduce the leakage current density; the maximum drain–source current density is −114.6, −96.0, −80.9, and −73.7 mA/mm, which may be benefited from the well-protected channel. For the 12 μm LG devices, the saturation carrier mobility is 593.6 cm2/V s, demonstrating a good channel transport characteristic. This work may provide a promising strategy for the application of normally off H-diamond FETs significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Doubly resonant sum frequency generation (DR-SFG) serves as a potent characteristic technique for probing the electronic spectra and vibronic coupling of molecules on surfaces. In this study, we successfully developed a novel infrared (IR)–white light (WL) DR-SFG spectroscopy based on narrowband IR and tunable broadband WL. This novel method was employed to explore the excitation spectrum and vibronic couplings of sub-monolayer Rhodamine 6G molecules. Our findings elucidate that the xanthene skeleton vibrational modes exhibit strong coupling with the S0–S1 electronic transition. Notably, we observed not only the 0–0 transition of the S0–S1 electronic continuum but also the 0–1 transition, a first time observation in the realm of DR-SFG spectroscopy. This advanced DR-SFG spectroscopy methodology facilitates a more sensitive examination of electronic spectra and the coupling between electronic transitions and vibrational modes, heralding a significant advancement in the understanding of molecular interactions on surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Direct RNA sequencing (dRNA-seq) on the Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) platforms can produce reads covering up to full-length gene transcripts, while containing decipherable information about RNA base modifications and poly-A tail lengths. Although many published studies have been expanding the potential of dRNA-seq, its sequencing accuracy and error patterns remain understudied. Results: We present the first comprehensive evaluation of sequencing accuracy and characterisation of systematic errors in dRNA-seq data from diverse organisms and synthetic in vitro transcribed RNAs. We found that for sequencing kits SQK-RNA001 and SQK-RNA002, the median read accuracy ranged from 87% to 92% across species, and deletions significantly outnumbered mismatches and insertions. Due to their high abundance in the transcriptome, heteropolymers and short homopolymers were the major contributors to the overall sequencing errors. We also observed systematic biases across all species at the levels of single nucleotides and motifs. In general, cytosine/uracil-rich regions were more likely to be erroneous than guanines and adenines. By examining raw signal data, we identified the underlying signal-level features potentially associated with the error patterns and their dependency on sequence contexts. While read quality scores can be used to approximate error rates at base and read levels, failure to detect DNA adapters may be a source of errors and data loss. By comparing distinct basecallers, we reason that some sequencing errors are attributable to signal insufficiency rather than algorithmic (basecalling) artefacts. Lastly, we generated dRNA-seq data using the latest SQK-RNA004 sequencing kit released at the end of 2023 and found that although the overall read accuracy increased, the systematic errors remain largely identical compared to the previous kits. Conclusions: As the first systematic investigation of dRNA-seq errors, this study offers a comprehensive overview of reproducible error patterns across diverse datasets, identifies potential signal-level insufficiency, and lays the foundation for error correction methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We developed a microfluidic system for vibrational polariton studies, which consists of two microfluidic chips: one for solution mixing and another for tuning an infrared cavity made of a pair of gold mirrors and a PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane) spacer. We show that the cavity of the system can be accurately tuned with either piezoelectric actuators or microflow-induced pressure to result in resonant coupling between a cavity mode and a variational mode of the solution molecules. Acrylonitrile solutions were chosen to prove the concept of vabriational strong coupling (VSC) of a C≡N stretching mode with light inside the cavity. We also show that the Rabi splitting energy is linearly proportional to the square root of molecular concentration, thereby proving the relevance and reliability of the system for VSC studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Talin (herein referring collectively to talin 1 and 2) couples the actomyosin cytoskeleton to integrins and transmits tension to the extracellular matrix. Talin also interacts with numerous additional proteins capable of modulating the actin-integrin linkage and thus downstream mechanosignaling cascades. Here, we demonstrate that the scaffold protein Caskin2 interacts directly with the R8 domain of talin through its C-terminal LD motif. Caskin2 also associates with the WAVE regulatory complex to promote cell migration in an Abi1-dependent manner. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the Caskin2-Abi1 interaction is regulated by growth factor-induced phosphorylation of Caskin2 on serine 878. In MCF7 and UACC893 cells, which contain an amplification of CASKIN2, Caskin2 localizes in plasma membrane-associated plaques and around focal adhesions in cortical microtubule stabilization complexes. Taken together, our results identify Caskin2 as a novel talin-binding protein that might not only connect integrin-mediated adhesion to actin polymerization but could also play a role in crosstalk between integrins and microtubules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease that seriously affects human health, and current treatment strategies are far from meeting clinical needs. Inspired by multi-target drug design strategies, a series of novel natural products-based melatonin-hydroxyquinoline hybrids were designed and synthesized, targeting anti-oxidation and metal-chelating at the same time. Most of the compounds showed significant oxygen radical absorbance capacity and Aβ1-42 aggregation inhibition. Moreover, the compounds possess good blood-brain barrier permeability. 6b and 6c have a good ability to alleviate oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide. 6b and 6c possess metal-chelating properties with the chelation ratio being 2:1. Furthermore, 6b can significantly mitigate metal-induced Aβ aggregation. This work may provide a new multi-target treatment strategy for Alzheimer's disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe work examines the effects of MHD incompressible viscoelastic fluid under nonlinear thermal radiation while flowing in a non-Darcy porous medium. The utilization of the Darcy-Brinkmann-Forchheimer model has thus been implemented in the formulation of the momentum equation. The study posits the existence of a chemical phenomenon which involves elements A and B as two chemical species. The diffusion coefficient of chemical species exhibits inequality when considered for viscoelastic fluid. Numerical solutions are generated using SRM, spectral relaxation technique for governing flow problems. The current algorithm is formulated and implemented using the computational software MATLAB. The results exhibit a considerable degree of agreement with formerly established numerical outcomes within the framework of a specific scenario. The observations from this study provide evidence that chemical species B operates as a catalyst in a subsurface environment that is oriented horizontally. As a result, the connection between the homogeneous-heterogeneous scheme can be observed in the context of isothermal cubic autocatalytic occurrences and processes of the first order, subsequently. The utilization of the heterogeneous reaction parameter offers notable advantages in reducing the concentration of the bulk-fluid while simultaneously enhancing the concentration of the catalyst situated over the surface. The current findings contribute to the exploration of the computational study of diffusivities in MHD viscoelastic fluid flow. Specifically, this research inquires the effects of nonlinear thermal radiation and homogeneous-heterogeneous reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Design tactics and mechanistic studies both remain as fundamental challenges during the exploitations of earth-abundant molecular electrocatalysts for CO2 reduction, especially for the rarely studied Cr-based ones. Herein, a quaterpyridyl CrIII catalyst is found to be highly active for CO2 electroreduction to CO with 99.8% Faradaic efficiency in DMF/phenol medium. A nearly one order of magnitude higher turnover frequency (86.6 s-1) over the documented Cr-based catalysts (<10 s-1) can be achieved at an applied overpotential of only 190 mV which is generally 300 mV lower than these precedents. Such a high performance at this low driving force originates from the metal-ligand cooperativity that stabilizes the low-valent intermediates and serves as an efficient electron reservoir. Moreover, a synergy of electrochemistry, spectroelectrochemistry, electron paramagnetic resonance, and quantum chemical calculations allows to characterize the key CrII, CrI, Cr0, and CO-bound Cr0 intermediates as well as to verify the catalytic mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to improve the energy efficiency of pure electric vehicles, the author proposes a thermal energy recovery and automation monitoring system for motor equipment based on new energy vehicles. Based on the analysis of the battery thermal management model, a series heat exchange model between the motor and the battery was established. An integrated thermal management system control strategy based on motor waste heat recovery was proposed for electric vehicles in low temperature environments, and simulation and validation were conducted at different environmental temperatures (-10~0 °C). The simulation results show that this configuration can shorten the heating time by 111-343 seconds compared to traditional battery thermal management systems during the heating stage. During the insulation stage, frequent activation of positive temperature coefficient thermistor can be avoided and the battery temperature can be maintained around 20 °C, which is not only conducive to extending the battery life but also reduces the comprehensive energy consumption by 4.39-7.70%. On the other hand, this configuration can reduce the impact of low temperature on comprehensive energy consumption from 9.77-2.07%. It is proved that heat recovery can effectively alleviate the range anxiety caused by ambient temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skin wound healing often leads to scar formation, presenting physical and psychological challenges for patients. Advancements in messenger RNA (mRNA) modifications offer a potential solution for pulsatile cytokine delivery to create a favorable woundhealing microenvironment, thereby preventing cutaneous fibrosis. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs) enriched with N1-methylpseudouridine (m1?) modified transforming growth factor-ß3 (TGF-ß3) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) mRNA in promoting scar-free healing in preclinical models. The results demonstrated that the modified mRNA (modRNA)-loaded hADSCs efficiently and temporarily secreted TGF-ß3 and IL-10 proteins. In a dorsal injury model, hADSCs loaded with modRNA TGF-ß3 and IL-10 exhibited multidimensional therapeutic effects, including improved collagen deposition, extracellular matrix organization, and neovascularization. In vitro experiments confirmed the ability of these cells to markedly inhibit the proliferation and migration of keloid fibroblasts, and reverse the myofibroblast phenotype. Finally, collagen degradation mediated by matrix metalloproteinase upregulation was observed in an ex vivo keloid explant culture model. In conclusion, the synergistic effects of the modRNA TGF-ß3, IL-10, and hADSCs hold promise for establishing a scar-free wound-healing microenvironment, representing a robust foundation for the management of wounds in populations susceptible to scar formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose a two-level block preconditioned Jacobi--Davidson (BPJD) method for efficiently solving discrete eigenvalue problems resulting from finite element approximations of 2mth (m= 1, 2) order symmetric elliptic eigenvalue problems. Our method works effectively to compute the first several eigenpairs, including both multiple and clustered eigenvalues with corresponding eigenfunctions, particularly. The method is highly parallelizable by constructing a new and efficient preconditioner using an overlapping domain decomposition (DD). It only requires computing a couple of small scale parallel subproblems and a quite small scale eigenvalue problem per iteration. Our theoretical analysis reveals that the convergence rate of the method is bounded by c(H)(1 C\delta 2m 1 H2m 1)2, where H is the diameter of subdomains and\delta is the overlapping size among subdomains. The constant C is independent of the mesh size h and the internal gaps among the target eigenvalues, demonstrating that our method is optimal and cluster robust. Meanwhile, the H-dependent constant c(H) decreases monotonically to 1, as H\rightarrow 0, which means that more subdomains lead to the better convergence rate. Numerical results supporting our theory are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploring the nature of Archean plate tectonics is crucial for understanding the geodynamic evolution of early Earth. While previous studies have focused on (ultra-)mafic metavolcanic and tonalite-trondhjemite-granodiorite (TTG) rocks, the crust-mantle interactions of Archean intermediate magmatism have received much less attention. Mesoarchean (ca. 2936-2855 Ma) dioritic and tonalitic-trondhjemitic magmatism occurred in the Jiaobei terrane, North China Craton. While low-silica (65.67-68.82 wt%) TTG magmatism persisted throughout the entire magmatic period, both the high-silica (69.79-74.54 wt%) TTG and biotite dioritic (MgO of 1.52-2.45 wt%) magmatism were transient (ca. 2922-2901 Ma). They were mainly sourced from metabasaltic crust, though the biotite dioritic and low-silica TTG rocks show variable mantle input. In comparison, the hornblende dioritic magmatism (MgO of 2.07-5.00 wt%) occurred later (ca. 2912-2865 Ma) and was derived from melt-metasomatized mantle sources. Spatially, the magmatism became younger from northeast to southwest. Combined with increasing crustal melting pressures after ca. 2920 Ma and mildly elevated zircon δ18O (up to +6.8‰) of TTG rocks, a Mesoarchean nascent subduction zone is proposed for the Jiaobei terrane that is featured by the recycling of supracrustal basaltic rocks to thickened lower crust (forming high-pressure and high-δ18O TTG) and subsequent meltrelated mantle metasomatism (forming relatively high-Mg hornblende dioritic rocks). The recycled supracrustal materials may have lubricated the basal part of the thickened crust and then triggered the opening of a nascent mantle wedge. Further compilation of data from global Archean dioritic and TTG rocks reveals chemical discontinuities at ca. 3.6-3.5 Ga and after ca. 3.0 Ga; these periods are marked by the occurrence of both high-Mg (median MgO >3 wt%) dioritic magmatism and high-(La/Yb)N (median >30) and high-δ18O (median >5.9‰) TTG magmatism. These data, along with independent geological evidence, suggest that the nascent subduction processes may have initiated locally at ca. 3.6-3.5 Ga but globally after ca. 3.0 Ga. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

WRKY transcription factors, transcriptional regulators unique to plants, play an important role in defense response to pathogen infection. However, the resistance mechanisms of WRKY genes in sugarcane remain unclear. In the present study, gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis revealed that WRKY gene family in sugarcane was extensively involved in the response to biotic stress and in defense response. We identified gene ScWRKY4, a class IIc member of the WRKY gene family, in sugarcane cultivar ROC22. This gene was induced by salicylic acid (SA) and methyl jasmonate (MeJA) stress. Interestingly, expression of ScWRKY4 was down-regulated in smut-resistant sugarcane cultivars but up-regulated in smutsusceptible sugarcane cultivars infected with Sporisorium scitamineum. Moreover, stable overexpression of the ScWRKY4 gene in Nicotiana benthamiana enhanced susceptibility to Fusarium solani var. coeruleum and caused down-regulated expression of immune marker-related genes. Transcriptome analysis indicated suppressed expression of most JAZ genes in the signal transduction pathway. ScWRKY4 interacted with ScJAZ13 to repress its expression. We thus hypothesized that the ScWRKY4 gene was involved in the regulatory network of plant disease resistance, most likely through the JA signaling pathway. The present study depicting the molecular involvement of ScWRKY4 in sugarcane disease resistance lays a foundation for future investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To reduce CO2 emissions in response to global climate change, shale reservoirs could be ideal candidates for long-term carbon geo-sequestration involving multi-scale transport processes. However, most current CO2 sequestration models do not adequately consider multiple transport mechanisms. Moreover, the evaluation of CO2 storage processes usually involves laborious and time-consuming numerical simulations unsuitable for practical prediction and decision-making. In this paper, an integrated model involving gas diffusion, adsorption, dissolution, slip flow, and Darcy flow is proposed to accurately characterize CO2 storage in depleted shale reservoirs, supporting the establishment of a training database. On this basis, a hybrid physics-informed data-driven neural network (HPDNN) is developed as a deep learning surrogate for prediction and inversion. By incorporating multiple sources of scientific knowledge, the HPDNN can be configured with limited simulation resources, significantly accelerating the forward and inversion processes. Furthermore, the HPDNN can more intelligently predict injection performance, precisely perform reservoir parameter inversion, and reasonably evaluate the CO2 storage capacity under complicated scenarios. The validation and test results demonstrate that the HPDNN can ensure high accuracy and strong robustness across an extensive applicability range when dealing with field data with multiple noise sources. This study has tremendous potential to replace traditional modeling tools for predicting and making decisions about CO2 storage projects in depleted shale reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current treatments for neurodegenerative diseases and neural injuries face major challenges, primarily due to the diminished regenerative capacity of neurons in the mammalian CNS as they mature. Here, we investigated the role of Ezh2, a histone methyltransferase, in regulating mammalian axon regeneration. We found that Ezh2 declined in the mouse nervous system during maturation but was upregulated in adult dorsal root ganglion neurons following peripheral nerve injury to facilitate spontaneous axon regeneration. In addition, overexpression of Ezh2 in retinal ganglion cells in the CNS promoted optic nerve regeneration via both histone methylation-dependent and -independent mechanisms. Further investigation revealed that Ezh2 fostered axon regeneration by orchestrating the transcriptional silencing of genes governing synaptic function and those inhibiting axon regeneration, while concurrently activating various factors that support axon regeneration. Notably, we demonstrated that GABA transporter 2, encoded by Slc6a13, acted downstream of Ezh2 to control axon regeneration. Overall, our study underscores the potential of modulating chromatin accessibility as a promising strategy for promoting CNS axon regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Botulinum toxin type A (BTA) is often used for wrinkles and muscle convulsive diseases due to its blocking of the transmission of nerve impulses. Stromal vascular fraction gel (SVF-gel) prepared from adipose tissue has novel effects on skin depression and poor texture. Both BTA and SVF-gel are proved to possess anti-scar potential. This study aimed to assess and compare their therapeutic effects on hypertrophic scars. The rabbit ear scar model was established and treated with BTA and SVF-gel, alone or in combination. Gross evaluation using Manchester Scar Scale (MSS) was conducted immediately, 4 and 8 weeks after initial treatment. After tissue sample harvest, histological and Western blot analyses were performed. All the treatments alleviated scar hyperplasia in different degrees by inhibiting fibroblast activation (Ki-67, α-SMA), tissue inflammation (CD45, IL-1β) and the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)/Smad3 pathway. Despite an excellent anti-inflammatory effect, improvement of scar appearance and pathological characteristics in SVF-gel-contained groups was not as good as that in BTA-only group, which might be related to the retention of M2-type macrophages (CD163 +) and partial maintenance of TGF-β1 expression. Our data suggest that BTA has better anti-scar efficacy than SVF-gel, and the combination of these two treatments shows no obvious combinatorial effect. • Botulinum toxin type A (BTA) has anti-scar properties superior to SVF-gel. • The synergy of the combination of BTA and SVF-gel is not obvious. • BTA treats hypertrophic scars mainly by regulating the TGF-β1/Smad3 pathway. • SVF-gel relieves tissue inflammation and promotes M2 polarization of macrophages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite its existence for more than 80 years, the titanium industry is still challenged by massive carbon emissions, high production costs, and large resource waste. More than one hundred million tons of Ti-bearing blast furnace slag (TB-slag) has been discarded in China because of the difficulty of reutilization, which requires efficient titanium extraction and recovery technologies. This paper describes a low-cost, carbon-emission-free method for Ti extraction and oxygen evolution via molten oxide electrolysis (MOE) vacuum distillation. After a comprehensive analysis of the binding energies and activities of liquid metals, the highlights of our study are as follows. 1) Sb has the best preferential deposition of Ti among a series of high-Ti-affinitive liquid metal cathodes (Cu, Ni, Pb, Sn, and Sb). 2) The Ir anode was first used in TB-slag with IrO2 formed on its surface to protect it from further corrosion. 3) An alloy containing Ti and Ca can be obtained by MOE, and Ti and Ca metals can be refined by further vacuum distillation. 4) A closed loop is formed in the overall process owing to the recyclable Sb cathode and continuous feeding of TB-slag into the electrolyte. This simple, low-cost, and environmentally friendly method can realize the efficient utilization of Ti resources and achieve carbon neutrality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background • Rett syndrome (RTT) is now widely recognized as a profound neurological disorder that predominantly affects females and is closely associated with mutations in the methylated CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene located on the X chromosome. The Characteristic symptoms of RTT include the loss of acquired language and motor skills, repetitive hand movements, irregular breathing, and seizures. Additionally, RTT patients may experience sporadic episodes of gastrointestinal problems, hypoplasia, early-onset osteoporosis, bruxism, and screaming episodes. It is worth noting that males exhibit a unique and variable phenotype, though rare in RTT cases, often accompanied by severe manifestations. Case Presentation • In this report, we present the case of a young male child with a de novo c.806delG hemizygous mutation, leading to an atypical presentation of RTT that remarkably mirrors the clinical features of Bartter syndrome, a genetic metabolic disorder. The clinical manifestations in this case included the loss of previously acquired language and motor skills, repetitive hand movements, breathing irregularities, seizures, sporadic episodes of gastrointestinal distress, hypoplasia, earlyonset osteoporosis, bruxism, and episodes of screaming. This distinctive presentation underscores the complex diagnostic landscape of RTT, particularly in males, and highlights the need for vigilant clinical evaluation. Conclusions • This case report sheds light on an unusual and atypical presentation of RTT in a young male child with a de novo c.806delG hemizygous mutation. The resemblance of clinical features to Bartter syndrome underscores the diagnostic challenges posed by RTT and highlights the importance of comprehensive clinical assessment and genetic testing, especially in cases deviating from the typical RTT phenotype. Our findings contribute valuable insights into the early diagnosis and management of atypical RTT presentations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe main objective of this work is to examine the effects of non-linear thermal radiation and induced magnetic fields on the behavior of viscoelastic fluid as it flows through a porous material that does not follow Darcy’s law. Hence, the Darcy–Brinkman–Forchheimer model has been employed when formulating the momentum equation. The research postulates the presence of a chemical process involving two chemical species, A and B. The research utilizes the spectral relaxation method (SRM) for the numerical solution of the altered governing equations. The present algorithm is formulated and executed on computational software MATLAB. The findings demonstrate a high level of concurrence with previously known numerical outcomes in the context of a specific scenario. The findings of this research demonstrate that chemical species B functions as a catalyst in a horizontally subsurface environment. Consequently, the relationship between the homogeneous-heterogeneous scheme may be seen in the context of isothermal cubic autocatalytic events and first-order processes, respectively. The use of the heterogeneous reaction parameter offers significant benefits in reducing the concentration of the bulk fluid while increasing the concentration of the catalyst located on the subsurface. Moreover, the results indicate that the impacts of induced magnetic and viscoelastic factors on velocity and induced magnetic fields are similar in their outcomes but differ in their fundamental nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co-loading doxorubicin (DOX) and Schizandrin A (SchA) long-circulating liposome (SchA-DOX-Lip) have been confirmed to have good antitumor activity in vitro. However, in vivo pharmacodynamics, targeting, safety, and mechanism of action of SchA-DOX-Lip still need to be further verified. We investigated the tumor inhibition effect, targeting, safety evaluation, and regulation of tumor apoptosis-related proteins of the SchA-DOX-Lip. MTT assay was used to investigate the inhibitory effect of SchA-DOX-Lip on CBRH7919 cells. The drug uptake of CBRH7919 cells was observed by inverted fluorescence microscope. The tumorbearing nude mice models of CBRH7919 were established, and the anti-tumor effect of SchA-DOX-Lip in vivo was evaluated by tumor biological observation, H&E staining, and TUNEL staining. The distribution and targeting of SchA-DOX-Lip in nude mice models were investigated by small animal imaging and tissue distribution experiment of CBRH7919. The biosafety of SchA-DOX-Lip was evaluated by blood routine parameters, biochemical indexes, and H&E staining. The expression of tumor-associated apoptotic proteins (Bcl-2, Bax, and Caspase-3) was detected by immunohistochemistry anvd western blotting. The results showed that SchA-DOX-Lip had cytotoxicity to CBRH7919 cells which effectively inhibited the proliferation of CBRH7919 cells, improved the uptake of drugs by CBRH7919 cells and the targeting effect of drugs on tumor site. H&E staining and biochemical detection results showed that SchA-DOX-Lip had high biosafety and did not cause serious damage to normal tissues. Western-blotting and TUNEL staining results showed that SchA-DOX-Lip could improve the regulatory effect of drugs on tumor apoptosis proteins. It was demonstrated that SchA-DOX-Lip had high safety and strong tumor inhibition effects, providing a new method for the clinical treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have indicated that the prevalence rate of hypertension in adolescents is high, but it has not received much attention and the influencing factors are unclear, especially in Yunnan Province, China. A cluster sampling method was used to investigate 4781 freshmen in a college in Kunming, Yunnan Province from November to December. Demographic and lifestyle data were collected using questionnaires, and height, weight and blood pressure were measured. Decision tree model of hypertension in college students was established by Chi-square automatic interactive detection method. Prevalence of prehypertension of systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were detected in 33.9% and 32.1%, respectively. Prevalence of hypertension of SBP and DBP was detected in 1.2% and 7.2%, respectively. The hypertension and prehypertension decision tree of SBP has gender (χ2 = 728.64, p <.001) at the first level and body mass index (BMI) (boys: χ2 = 55.98, p <.001; girls: χ2 = 79.58, p <.001) at the second level. The hypertension and prehypertension decision tree of DBP has gender (χ2 = 381.83, p <.001) at the first level, BMI (boys: χ2 = 40.54, p <.001; girls: χ2 = 48.79, p <.001) at the second level, only children (χ2 = 6.43, p =.04) and red wine consumption (χ2 = 8.17, p =.017) at the third level. The present study suggests that gender, BMI, only children and red wine consumption were the main factors affecting hypertension in college students in southwest border areas of China. Hypertension in Chinese adolescent is generally ignored. This study first reports the prevalence of hypertension in adolescents in Yunnan Province, China. Four thousand seven hundred and eighty-one freshmen were surveyed and height, weight and blood pressure were measured. A decision tree model was used to analyze the predictors of hypertension. The study demonstrated that gender, BMI, only children and red wine predict hypertension in adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective • This study investigates the impact of evidencebased care on glucose levels and pregnancy outcomes in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus. Methods • We employed a prospective cohort study design. We selected 120 patients with gestational diabetes admitted to our institution from May 2019 to May 2021. Using a computerized blind selection method, we divided these patients into two groups, each consisting of 60 patients. The control group received conventional care, while the observation group underwent evidence-based care in addition to conventional care. We compared changes in various glucose-related indices, pregnancy outcomes, and patient satisfaction before and after implementing evidence-based care in both groups. Results • Before care, no statistically significant differences were observed in fasting C-peptide levels, HOMA-IR, and HbA1c between the two groups (P > .05). However, after care, the observation group exhibited significantly lower levels of HOMA-IR and HbA1c compared to the control group, with significantly higher fasting C-peptide levels (P < .05). Furthermore, the observation group experienced a lower incidence of various adverse pregnancy outcomes for both mothers and infants when compared to the control group. Patient satisfaction with care was notably higher in the observation group (88.33%) compared to the control group (55.0%), and this difference was statistically significant (P < .05). Conclusions • Evidence-based nursing interventions can effectively enhance daily care for patients with gestational diabetes. These interventions lead to improved blood glucose control, increased patient compliance, reduced incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes, and ensured the safety of pregnant women and newborns. These outcomes are achieved through disseminating knowledge, structured dietary and exercise plans, and psychological guidance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) is a novel and integrated marker that has not been studied with prostate cancer. We aimed to ascertain the association between SII levels and prostate cancer. We utilized data from the 1999–2010 cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to evaluate the relationship between SII and prostate cancer. Additionally, subgroup analyses stratified by age, BMI, history of hypertension and diabetes were performed. A total of 8,020 participants were included in our analysis. After full adjustment, SII was associated with a 7% increased risk of prostate cancer (OR 1.07, 95% CI 0.99–1.15, p=0.094). We further categorized SII values into three segments and found that individuals in the highest SII group had a 33% increased risk of prostate cancer than those in the tertile 1 group (OR 1.33; 95% CI 1.01–1.81; p=0.044; P for trend = 0.046). In addition, a higher SII level was associated with a 137% increased risk of prostate cancer in the diabetes subgroup (OR 2.37; 95% CI 1.08–5.21; p=0.031). The current study suggested that SII was positively associated with increased risks of prostate cancer. The SII might be an easily accessible indicator for identifying prostate cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cold method was used to prepare coated sand for application in the selective laser sintering (SLS) process. Tensile strength, loss on ignition, gas evolution, and accuracy of the SLS samples were tested and analyzed, and the baking process was thoroughly investigated. Compared with coated sand prepared by the hot method, the cold method yields a more uniform and complete resin film on the sand's surface, resulting in enhanced tensile strength and accuracy. Additionally, the cold method requires a lower binder content to meet the same strength requirements, thereby minimizing gas evolution, reducing porosity defects, and ultimately improving casting quality. The coated sand samples prepared through the cold method exhibit superior accuracy, with a size error of within ±0.4 mm. In contrast, the coated sand samples prepared by the hot method display a lower accuracy, with an average negative error of 2.1993 mm. The highest tensile strength could be attained by controlling the baking temperature within a suitable range (180-190 °C), which can effectively reduce the generation of gas, thus contributing to improved overall performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolution of the Tethys Ocean has received much research attention; however, the timing and subduction mechanisms involved in the closure of the Bangong-Nujiang MesoTethys Ocean remain poorly constrained. In this study, we present geological, geochronological, geochemical, and zircon isotopic data from Cretaceous magmatic rocks and combine these with previously published data within the central Bangong-Nujiang suture zone in the north-central Tibetan Plateau. The integrated data update the regional tectonic framework and enable a comprehensive geodynamic model to be developed for the subduction and ocean closure events. In detail, temporal and spatial variations in the Jurassic–Cretaceous magmatism reflect the influence of the northward subduction of the Dongqiao-Amdo oceanic basin and the bidirectional subduction of the Bangong-Nujiang Meso-Tethys oceanic crust. The evolution of the Bangong-Nujiang Meso-Tethys Ocean further involved initial intra-ocean subduction, slab rollback, and flat subduction, as evidenced by two phases of north-south migration of magmatism at ca. 190–160 and 160–130 Ma and a magmatic hiatus at 160–140 Ma. The ocean closed during a two-stage process, including the closure of the Dongqiao-Amdo oceanic basin to the north and the Bangong-Nujiang Meso-Tethys Ocean to the south. The Dongqiao-Amdo oceanic basin closed soon after ca. 180 Ma, accompanied by continent-continent collision between the Amdo microcontinent and the South Qiangtang terrane. The Bangong-Nujiang Meso-Tethys Ocean closed at 130–120 Ma, corresponding to a period of waning magmatism. This closure represented complete oceanic closure and caused an arc-continent collisional event involving the Baingoin magmatic arc, the Amdo microcontinent, and the Lhasa terrane. The Lower Cretaceous terrestrial strata and their basal unconformity mark the final closure of the ocean, and the Early Cretaceous ocean islands might have formed before ca. 130 Ma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Common biliary tract is ≈4 mm in diameter to deliver bile from liver to small intestine to help digestion. The abnormal narrowing leads to severe symptoms such as pain and nausea. Stents are an effective treatment. Compared with non-degradable stents which require repeated removal, biodegradable stents have the advantage of reducing secondary injury related to endoscopic operation and patient burden. However, current biodegradable materials may cause tissue hyperplasia and the treatment method does not target etiology of stricture. So recurrence rates after biodegradable stent implantation are still high. Here, a biodegradable helical stent fabricated from biosynthetic P(3HB-co-4HB) is reported. Tunable properties can be acquired through altering culture substrates. Stent shows shape memory in various solvents. The stent has an optimized design with helical structure and outer track. The self-expanding of helical structure and double drainage realized by outer track greatly improve drainage of bile. Importantly, stent-loading triamcinolone acetonide can inhibit proliferation of fibroblasts and reduce incidence of restricture. Therapeutic effect is also demonstrated in minipigs with biliary stricture. The results of minipig experiments show that biliary duct in treatment group is unobstructed and tissue hyperplasia is effectively inhibited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For energetic compounds, their structure determines their performance, and even minor variations in their structure can have a significant impact on their performance. The application scenarios for energetic materials are diverse, and their performance requirements vary as well. To investigate the influence of different substituent positions on the performance of primary explosives, we prepared two Ag(I)-based complexes, [Ag(2-IZCA)ClO4]n (ECPs-1) and [Ag(4-IZCA)ClO4]n (ECPs-2), using structurally isomeric ligands, 1H-imidazole-2-carbohydrazide (2-IZCA) and 1H-imidazole-4-carbohydrazide (4-IZCA). The structures were confirmed using infrared, elemental analysis, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Experimental results demonstrate that both ECPs exhibit good thermal stability. However, compared to ECPs-1, ECPs-2 exhibits a lower thermal initial decomposition temperature (Td = 210 °C), lower mechanical sensitivity (IS = 27 J, FS = 84 N), and more concentrated energy output. Although theoretical predictions suggest similar detonation velocities and pressures for both compounds, actual detonation performance tests indicate that ECPs-2 has stronger explosive power and initiating capability, with potential for use as a laser initiator (E = 126 mJ). The simple preparation method and inexpensive starting materials enrich the research on primary explosives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of novel catalysts to regulate product selectivity and insight into the mechanism of lignin hydrogenolysis are important for the comprehensive utilization of lignocellulose. Herein, we present a non-precious bimetallic catalyst Ni5Fe5/Al2O3 with improved catalytic performance relative to commercial Pd/C and Ni10/Al2O3 for hydrogenolysis of woody sawdust. In particular, the selectivity of propylguaiacol and propylsyringol is 79.1%. We developed kinetic experimental studies on β-O-4 model compounds and directly monitored the coniferyl alcohol or sinapyl alcohol intermediates in the reaction system for the first time. This directly demonstrates the lignin hydrolysis reaction pathway with simultaneous breakage of Cα-OH and Cβ-O. In the catalytic system, the reason for the difference in selectivity between Ni5Fe5/Al2O3 and other catalysts is their different hydrogenation pathways for intermediates coniferyl alcohol or sinapyl alcohol. Our work provides both an efficient catalyst and insight into understanding and regulating the mechanism of lignin hydrogenolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smart cities depend highly on an intelligent electrical networks to provide a reliable, safe, and clean power supplies. A smart grid achieves such aforementioned power supply by ensuring resilient energy delivery, which presents opportunities to improve the cost-effectiveness of power supply and minimize environmental impacts. A systematic evaluation of the comprehensive benefits brought by smart grid to smart cities can provide necessary theoretical fundamentals for urban planning and construction towards a sustainable energy future. However, most of the present methods of assessing smart cities do not fully take into account the benefits expected from the smart grid. To comprehensively evaluate the development levels of smart cities while revealing the supporting roles of smart grids, this article proposes a model of smart city development needs from the perspective of residents' needs based on Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs theory, which serves the primary purpose of building a smart city. By classifying and reintegrating the needs, an evaluation index system of smart grids supporting smart cities was further constructed. A case analysis concluded that smart grids, as an essential foundation and objective requirement for smart cities, are important in promoting scientific urban management, intelligent infrastructure, refined public services, efficient energy utilization, and industrial development and modernization. Further optimization suggestions were given to the city analyzed in the case include strengthening urban management and infrastructure constructions, such as electric vehicle charging facilities and wireless coverage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve the shear performance of assembly connections in precast RC shear wall structures, a novel polygon‐key assembly connection (PKA connection) was proposed. Shear tests were carried out to study the shear performance of the PKA connections, specimens' parameters considered in the tests consist of polygon‐key inclination angles, polygon‐key heights, and axial compression ratios. Shear capacity, stiffness, and failure modes of the PKA connections were investigated. Furthermore, theoretical analysis of the PKA connection was performed, equations of PKA connection's shear capacity were deduced, and the theoretical analysis results were verified by the test results. The results show that the polygon‐keys can effectively improve the shear capacity of assembly connection of precast RC shear wall structure. Compared with the parallel assembly connection, peak shear capacity of the PKA connection can be enhanced by more than 15%. When polygon‐key's inclination angle is within the range of 45–90°, the peak loads of PKA connections change slightly. When polygon‐key's height is within the range of 5–7 cm, the cracking load and peak load of the PKA connection change slightly. With an increase in axial compression ratio, the shear capacity of PKA connection gradually increases, and the peak displacement changes slightly. Based on the shear‐friction theory, the calculated PKA connection's peak loads are in good agreement with the test results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermal non‐Newtonian polymer coating flows is growing as a major area in materials processing. Inspired by new developments in this field which require more sophisticated mathematical models, the current investigation examines the laminar viscoplastic boundary layer flow and mixed convective heat transfer over a power‐law nonlinear stretching surface. To simulate thermal relaxation effects the hyperbolic Cattaneo‐Christov heat flux model is deployed. The non‐Newtonian polymer characteristics are described by employing the Casson flow model. High temperature conditions invoke thermal radiation flux which is analyzed with an algebraic flux model. Via robust similarity transformations, the primitive partial differential conservation equations for momentum and energy equations are rendered into a system of coupled non‐linear ordinary differential equations with associated wall and free stream boundary conditions. The emerging boundary value problem is solved numerically with an efficient Chebyshev Spectral Newton Iterative scheme (CSNIS), in the MATLAB platform. The resulting solutions are discussed for different emerging parameters using graphs and tables. Validation is included with special cases from the literature. With increasing power law stretching index increases, the flow is decelerated, and temperatures are reduced. Increment in mixed convection parameter boosts the velocity but suppresses temperature and thermal boundary layer thickness. Increasing non‐Fourier Deborah number, temperatures are depleted whereas with increasing radiative flux parameter they are increased. With elevation in Casson non‐Newtonian parameter, velocity is decreased whereas temperature is enhanced and Nusselt number is suppressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective • Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is characterized by heart damage resulting from blocked blood flow. Prompt diagnosis is vital for timely treatment and saving lives. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of cTnl, NT-pro BNP, and a combined test in AMI patients. Methods • In this study, a retrospective observational design was employed, and we selected 221 patients with AMI admitted to our hospital within a 3-year period as the research subjects and included them in the AMI group. Additionally, 200 patients from the control group, who visited our hospital for physical examinations, were selected to compare the expressions of cardiac Troponin I (cTnl) and N-Terminal pro-B-type Natriuretic Peptide (NT-pro BNP) between the two groups. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed to analyze the diagnostic value of cTnl combined with NT-pro BNP for AMI. Furthermore, AMI patients were categorized into four groups based on the New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification (grades I, II, III, and IV). The differences in cTnl, NT-pro BNP, and Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction (LVEF) were compared among the AMI patients with different cardiac function grades to analyze their correlation and diagnostic value in assessing the severity of AMI-related cardiac insufficiency. Results • The levels of cTnl and NT-pro BNP in AMI patients were significantly higher than those in the control group, and their combined detection effectively facilitated the diagnosis of AMI occurrence. Moreover, cTnl and NT-pro BNP concentrations increased with the severity of cardiac dysfunction (NYHA grades) and showed a notable negative correlation with LVEF. Furthermore, the combined testing of cTnl and NT-pro BNP demonstrated significant value in evaluating the severity of AMI in patients. Conclusions • The combined detection of cTnl and NT-pro BNP holds considerable application value in diagnosing AMI occurrence and assessing its severity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aiming at the problem of degradation feature extraction of rolling bearings, a degradation feature extraction technique based on the equalization symbol sequence entropy is proposed. Considering the uniformity of the symbolization standard, the technique takes the root mean square of the normal condition signal as the basis to establish a unified basic scale, and combines the information entropy theory to quantitatively measure the complexity of the signal symbol sequence. Instance analysis is carried out with the lifetime data of intelligent maintenance systems bearing. The results show that the proposed feature is able to characterize the complexity of the nonlinear time series, and sensitively describe the whole process of rolling bearing performance degradation. The calculation speed is fast, and it is resistant to noise; thus, this technique is suitable for application to online condition monitoring and degradation feature extraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to more effectively and intuitively obtain the modal characteristics of steel structural components, a graphical analysis scheme is proposed based on dynamic testing, finite element simulation, and virtual reality technology. Based on the external excitation method, the vibration sensors and measurement point positions were reasonably arranged according to the number of nodes in the structural components. Through the data processing of the detection unit, the vibration response can be effectively obtained and provide a verification basis for the simulation results. The finite element software Midas Civil was used to model and analyze structural component models, and the results of the first five modes and natural frequencies were obtained. The structural data of modal analysis will be compared and integrated into the virtual environment model through VRML. Due to the ease of modifying the parameters of the virtual model, compared to traditional methods, it is faster and more accurate in detection and scientifically reasonable in control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the study is to explore the use of internal jugular vein diameter, respiratory variability, and blood flow velocity in predicting blood volume of patients with intestinal obstruction. A total of sixty patients with acute intestinal obstruction who were admitted to our hospital from June 2019 to June 2021 were included and including 33 males and 27 females. The patients were graded ASA I to III on the basis of their physical condition. Using the random number table method, the patients were divided into the inferior vena cava (IVC) and internal jugular vein (IJV) groups. The maximum diameter (Dmax) and the minimum diameter (Dmin) of the IVC and IJV groups were measured by M-type ultrasound, and the respiratory variation index (RVI) was calculated. The maximum blood flow velocity (BVmax) and the minimum blood flow velocity (BVmin) of each vessel were also measured in the respective groups by Doppler ultrasound, and the blood flow variation index (BVI) was calculated. Each patient was then infused with 5 ml/kg crystalloid solution, and the above parameters were measured again and compared to the respective pre-infusion values. The correlation between each measurement index and CVP and their ability to predict CVP > 6 mmHg were statistically evaluated. The RVI of IVC decreased significantly post-infusion (P = 0.018). Compared to the pre-infusion values, the Dmin of IJV increased (P = 0.042), while the RVI and BVI decreased significantly after infusion (P = 0.004 and P = 0.047). The relevant measurement data could not be obtained for one patient in the IVC group due to obvious intestinal pneumatosis. There was a positive correlation between the Dmin of IVC and CVP (pre-infusion R = 0.684 and P = 0.000; post-infusion R = 0.442 and P = 0.016), and a negative correlation between RVI and CVP (pre-infusion R = − 0.826 and P = 0.000; post-infusion R = − 0.663 and P = 0.000) before and after infusion. In addition, CVP was positively correlated to the Dmin, BVmax, and BVmin of IJV before and after infusion (pre-infusion R = 0.652, 0.655, 0.795, and all P = 0.000; post-infusion R = 0.571, 0.586, 0.684, and P = 0.001, 0.001, and 0.000), and negatively with RVI and BVI (pre-infusion R = − 0.808, − 0.677, and all P = 0.000; post-infusion R = − 0.589, − 0.592, and all P = 0.001). The specificity of the Dmin of IVC was 92.9%, and the sensitivity of RVI was 100% prior to the infusion, the post-infusion RVI could predict the blood volume with 100% sensitivity. In contrast, all indices of IJV except Dmax predicted the blood volume before and after infusion. The area under the curve of RVI was the largest, indicating the highest predictive accuracy. The sensitivity and specificity of RVI were, respectively, 100 and 93.3% before infusion and 88.9 and 95.2% after infusion. The ultrasonically measured variability in the diameter and blood flow velocity of IJV can be used to predict the blood volume of patients with intestinal obstruction and has higher accuracy compared to the indices of IVC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To preserve the meniscus's function, repairing the torn meniscus has become a common understanding. After which, the search for the ideal suture material is continuous. However, it is still controversial about the efficacy of suture absorbability on meniscus healing. Methods: This review is designed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Inclusion criteria: (1) Studies on meniscus repair; (2) Second-look arthroscopy was performed; (3) The meniscus was repaired by absorbable and non-absorbable sutures; (4) The healing condition of repaired meniscus via second-look arthroscopy was described. Exclusion criteria: (1) Animal studies, cadaveric studies, or in vitro research; (2) Meniscus transplantation; (3) Open meniscus repair; (4) Reviews, meta-analysis, case reports, letters, and comments; (5) non-English studies. MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Database were searched up to October 2022. Risk of bias and methodology quality of included literature were assessed according to ROBINS-I and the modified Coleman Methodological Scale (MCMS). Descriptive analysis was performed, and meta-analysis was completed by RevMan5.4.1. Results: Four studies were included in the systematic review. Among them, three studies were brought into the meta-analysis, including 1 cohort study and 2 case series studies about 130 patients with meniscal tears combined with anterior cruciate ligament injury. Forty-two cases were repaired by absorbable sutures, and 88 were repaired by non-absorbable sutures. Using the fixed effect model, there was a statistical difference in the healing success rate between the absorbable and the non-absorbable groups [RR1.20, 95%CI (1.03, 1.40)]. Conclusion: In early and limited studies, insufficient evidence supports that non-absorbable sutures in meniscus repair surgery could improve meniscal healing success rate under second-look arthroscopy compared with absorbable sutures. In contrast, available data suggest that absorbable sutures have an advantage in meniscal healing. Trial registration: The review was registered in the PROSPERO System Review International Pre-Registration System (Registration number CRD42021283739). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To preserve the meniscus's function, repairing the torn meniscus has become a common understanding. After which, the search for the ideal suture material is continuous. However, it is still controversial about the efficacy of suture absorbability on meniscus healing. Methods: This review is designed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Inclusion criteria: (1) Studies on meniscus repair; (2) Second-look arthroscopy was performed; (3) The meniscus was repaired by absorbable and non-absorbable sutures; (4) The healing condition of repaired meniscus via second-look arthroscopy was described. Exclusion criteria: (1) Animal studies, cadaveric studies, or in vitro research; (2) Meniscus transplantation; (3) Open meniscus repair; (4) Reviews, meta-analysis, case reports, letters, and comments; (5) non-English studies. MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Database were searched up to October 2022. Risk of bias and methodology quality of included literature were assessed according to ROBINS-I and the modified Coleman Methodological Scale (MCMS). Descriptive analysis was performed, and meta-analysis was completed by RevMan5.4.1. Results: Four studies were included in the systematic review. Among them, three studies were brought into the meta-analysis, including 1 cohort study and 2 case series studies about 130 patients with meniscal tears combined with anterior cruciate ligament injury. Forty-two cases were repaired by absorbable sutures, and 88 were repaired by non-absorbable sutures. Using the fixed effect model, there was a statistical difference in the healing success rate between the absorbable and the non-absorbable groups [RR1.20, 95%CI (1.03, 1.40)]. Conclusion: In early and limited studies, insufficient evidence supports that non-absorbable sutures in meniscus repair surgery could improve meniscal healing success rate under second-look arthroscopy compared with absorbable sutures. In contrast, available data suggest that absorbable sutures have an advantage in meniscal healing. Trial registration: The review was registered in the PROSPERO System Review International Pre-Registration System (Registration number CRD42021283739). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bone and muscle mass decline after menopause. The risk of osteoarthritis (OA), sarcopenia, and osteoporosis increases in later life. Our objective aimed to assess the possible factors affecting osteoarthritis in menopausal women. Methods: This is a registry study of osteoporosis, sarcopenia, and osteoarthritis. All subjects accepted bone mineral density (BMD) and body composition studies, and X-rays of both knees were performed. A medical history was taken and biochemical data were recorded. Logistic regression analyses were used to examine the associations between the presence of osteoarthritis and BMD, muscle mass, and other parameters. Results: A total of 139 patients were enrolled. The mean age of the patients was 73.86 ± 5.83 years in the osteoarthritis group and 74.53 ± 9.90 in the non-osteoarthritis group (p = 0.663). The mean body mass index (BMI) was 24.36 ± 3.64 kg/m² in the osteoarthritis group, compared with 23.78 ± 3.61 in the non-osteoarthritis group (p = 0.366). The lumbar spine T score was -2.06 ± 1.33 g/cm2 in the osteoarthritis group, and -1.25 ± 1.76 in the non-osteoarthritis group (p = 0.006). There were no significant differences in smoking, alcohol consumption, diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, neurological disease, and chronic kidney disease between the two groups. When we used osteoarthritis as the outcome, we found that the lumbar spine T score had a significant association with osteoarthritis, with a high T score associated with less osteoarthritis formation (p = 0.024, odds ratio (95% confidence interval) 0.06 (0-0.69)). Conclusions: Knee osteoarthritis was associated with lumbar spine bone density. This study provides the initial information required to develop clinical algorithms for the early identification of potential high-risk populations, as well as essential information for the development of policies for the detection and prevention of osteoarthritis in menopausal women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin disease that is intricately linked to oxidative stress. Antioxidation and inhibition of abnormal proliferation of keratinocytes are pivotal strategies for psoriasis. Delivering drugs with these effects to the site of skin lesions is a challenge that needs to be solved. Herein, we reported a nanotransdermal delivery system composed of all-trans retinoic acid (TRA), triphenylphosphine (TPP)-modified cerium oxide (CeO2) nanoparticles, flexible nanoliposomes and gels (TCeO2-TRA-FNL-Gel). The results revealed that TCeO2 synthesized by the anti-micelle method, with a size of approximately 5 nm, possessed excellent mitochondrial targeting ability and valence conversion capability related to scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS). TCeO2-TRA-FNL prepared by the film dispersion method, with a size of approximately 70 nm, showed high drug encapsulation efficiency (>96%). TCeO2-TRA-FNL-Gel further showed sustained drug release behaviors, great transdermal permeation ability, and greater skin retention than the free TRA. The results of in vitro EGF-induced and H2O2-induced models suggested that TCeO2-TRA-FNL effectively reduced the level of inflammation and alleviated oxidative stress in HaCat cells. The results of in vivo imiquimod (IMQ)-induced model indicated that TCeO2-TRA-FNL-Gel could greatly alleviate the psoriasis symptoms. In summary, the transdermal drug delivery system designed in this study has shown excellent therapeutic effects on psoriasis and is prospective for the safe and accurate therapy of psoriasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Kadsura is an important part of traditional Chinese medicine, it has the functions of promoting wind, eliminating dampness, activating blood circulation. Modern pharmacological studies have shown that lignans are one of the main components to possess these medicinal effects. This review aimed to provide a systematic summary on the traditional use, phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicology and other aspects of lignans in genus Kadsura. In this paper, we collected the relevant literature on Kadsura lignans from 1973 to the present, and isolated more than 337 lignans from this genus, including dibenzocyclooctadienes, aryltetralins, tetrahydrofurans, diarylbutanes, 7,8-secolignans, bisepoxylignans, neolignans, seco-dibenzocyclooctadienes, sesquilignan and coumarin-containing lignan. Previous pharmacological studies have shown that lignans of the genus Kadsura have antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-HIV, anti-platelet aggregation, immunomodulatory and antioxidant effects. In clinical practice, it is commonly used to treat Alzheimer's disease, inflammation and insomnia. Kadsura is an important part of the field of Chinese medicine and is widely used in traditional medicine. However, further clarification of its active ingredients and mechanism of action and the establishment of a complete quality standard system are needed in order to provide a scientific basis for in-depth studies of this genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural chalcopyrite was used as catalyst for electro-Fenton process to treat the simulated imidacloprid wastewater and the degradation efficiency of imidacloprid as well as leaching behavior of chalcopyrite with regard to 18 elements were investigated. The results showed that the removal rate of COD and UV absorbance at 270 nm( UV270 ) after 4 h of reaction reached 64. 37% and 84. 69% respectively when the cathode was graphite plate the anode was titanium plate coated with RuO2 and Ir02the chalcopyrite dosage was 60 g/Lathe initial pH of electrolyte solution was 3the current density was 40 mA/cm2 and the plate spacing was 2. 5 cm. The results of atomic absorption and ICP-MS showed that the content of Cu ions in electrolyte solution after reaction exceeded the third-level standard value of Integrated Wastewater Discharge Standard, (GB 8978-1996). However the content of Cu ions could decrease to below the third-level standard value through chemical precipitation by adding alkali (pH to 10) and filtration treatment. Chalcopyrite may leach high levels of toxic heavy metals such as Much Cd and Pb under acidic condition which should be paid attention during the application of natural chalcopyrite as electro-Fenton catalyst for wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Direct propane dehydrogenation (PDH) to propylene is a desirable commercial reaction but is highly endothermic and severely limited by thermodynamic equilibrium. Routes that oxidatively remove hydrogen as water have safety and cost challenges. We coupled chemical looping–selective hydrogen (H2) combustion and PDH with multifunctional ferric vanadate–vanadium oxide (FeVO4-VOx) redox catalysts. Well-dispersed VOx supported on aluminum oxide (Al2O3) provides dehydrogenation sites, and adjacent nanoscale FeVO4 acts as an oxygen carrier for subsequent H2 combustion. We achieved an integral performance of 81.3% propylene selectivity at 42.7% propane conversion at 550°C for 200 chemical looping cycles for the reoxidization of FeVO4. Based on catalytic experiments, spectroscopic characterization, and theory calculations, we propose a hydrogen spillover–mediated coupling mechanism. The hydrogen species generated at the VOx sites migrated to adjacent FeVO4 for combustion, which shifted PDH toward propylene. This mechanism is favored by the proximity between the dehydrogenation and combustion sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work provides a new comprehensive assessment method to determine the complex mechanical interaction of adjacent corrosion defects. Firstly, a three-dimensional (3D) finite element model of pipelines containing adjacent defects (involving longitudinally aligned, circumferentially aligned, and diagonally aligned defects) was developed and validated by full-scale burst tests. Then, the synergistic stress interaction between adjacent defects was analyzed, and the relationship between the burst position of the pipeline and defect spacing was determined. At last, the applicability of several commonly used critical spacing rules for identifying the interaction between adjacent defects was compared and discussed in detail. The results show that the failure position of the pipeline containing adjacent defects is related to the relative position of defects. For longitudinally aligned corrosion defects, the stronger the interaction between defects (i.e., the shorter the distance between two defects), the closer the failure position of the pipeline to the center of the defect spacing. For circumferentially aligned corrosion defects, the failure position of the pipe tends to move from the defect edge to the geometric center of the defect with increasing defect spacing. For diagonally aligned defects, the failure position is generally located on the path connecting the defect and the spacing. The currently available evaluation criteria for identifying circumferentially interacting defects display the most accuracy, and the identification effect of diagonally aligned defects is the poorest. In addition, the critical spacing rule proposed by Li presents the highest precision in identifying the interacting defects. The results are expected to provide a stress synergistic failure assessment method for pipelines containing cluster corrosion defects in engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context.--Kikuchi-Fujimoto lymphadenitis, also known as Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD), is a self-limited lymphoproliferative disease, with no definitive causative agent confirmed by traditional methods. Objectives.--To further explore the clinicopathologic features of KFD and clarify related pathogenic factors. Design.--A retrospective analysis was performed in a collection of KFD cases to review the clinical and histopathologic features, and metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) was used in 64 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues from patients with KFD. Results.--One hundred five of the 170 patients with KFD (61.8%) were female; 10 patients had autoimmune diseases. Four pathologic subtypes were classified: necrotic (45.9%, 78 of 170), phagocytic (32.4%, 55 of 170), proliferative (17.1%, 29 of 170), and xanthomatous (4.7%, 8 of 170). Patients younger than 40 years with unilateral cervical lymphadenopathy and small vessel fibrinous degeneration accounted for significant differences among the 4 pathologic subtypes (P, .05). Among 64 patients with KFD, 9 had detectable bacterial or viral DNA--of 6 bacterial cases, 1 involved Chlamydia psittaci; while of 3 viral cases, 1 involved human beta herpesvirus 6B and 2 involved Epstein-Barr virus. No significant relationships were found between the pathologic subtypes and specific pathogens. Conclusions.--Only a small proportion of patients with KFD had autoimmune diseases or infections from specific pathogens, suggesting that KFD is likely a reactive lesion of lymph nodes to various circumstances. To our knowledge, this is the first and the largest study to detect pathogens with the use of mNGS on FFPE samples in KFD. Our study also further confirms that mNGS can be used on FFPE samples to detect potentially infectious agents in clinical settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological functions of the highly conserved ubiquitin-like protein 5 (UBL5) are not well understood. In Caenorhabditis elegans, UBL5 is induced under mitochondrial stress to mount the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPR). However, the role of UBL5 in the more prevalent endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-UPR in the mammalian system is unknown. In the present work, we demonstrated that UBL5 was an ER stress-responsive protein, undergoing rapid depletion in mammalian cells and livers of mice. The ER stress-induced UBL5 depletion was mediated by proteasome-dependent yet ubiquitin-independent proteolysis. Activation of the protein kinase R-like ER kinase arm of the UPR was essential and sufficient for inducing UBL5 degradation. RNA-Seq analysis of UBL5-regulated transcriptome revealed that multiple death pathways were activated in UBL5-silenced cells. In agreement with this, UBL5 knockdown induced severe apoptosis in culture and suppressed tumorigenicity of cancer cells in vivo. Furthermore, overexpression of UBL5 protected specifically against ER stress-induced apoptosis. These results identify UBL5 as a physiologically relevant survival regulator that is proteolytically depleted by the UPR-protein kinase R-like ER kinase pathway, linking ER stress to cell death. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Helicobacter pylori infection is an important issue worldwide, and several guidelines have been published for clinicians to achieve successful eradication. However, there are still some patients who remain infected with H. pylori after treatment. Clinicians should identify the reasons that caused treatment failure and find strategies to manage them. We have searched and organized the literature and developed methods to overcome factors that contribute to prior treatment failure, such as poor compliance, inadequate intragastric acid suppression, and antibiotic resistance. To improve compliance, telemedicine or smartphone applications might play a role in the modern world by increasing doctor–patient relationships, while concomitant probiotics could be administered to reduce adverse effects and enhance adherence. For better acid suppression, high-potency and high-dose proton-pump inhibitors or potassium-competitive acid blockers have preferable efficacy. To overcome antibiotic resistance, susceptibility tests either by culture or by genotyping are the most commonly used methods and have been suggested for antibiotic selection before rescue therapy, but empirical therapy according to detailed medical history could be an alternative. Eradication with a longer treatment period (14days) has a better outcome than shorter period (7 or 10days). Ultimately, clinicians should select antibiotics based on the patient’s history of drug allergy, previous antibiotic exposure, local antibiotic resistance, available medications, and cost. In addition, identifying patients with a high risk of cancer and shared decision-making are also essential for those who have experienced eradication failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the paper, based on the quasi-geostrophic potential vorticity equation with topography effect, we derived a modified ZakharovKuznetsor (mZK)-Burgers equation by employing multiscale analysis and perturbation method. The model can be described the propagation of the nonlinear long wave and solitary eddy. The exact solutions are given by virtue of the (G'/G)-expansion method to analyze wave propagation characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the sufficient and necessary conditions for the strong consistency of least squares estimators in simple linear EV regression models are proved under widely orthant dependent random errors. The results obtained in the paper improve and extend some existing ones in the literature. Simulation studies are also carried out to support the consistency of the estimators under dependence assumption and finite samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyclic olefin copolymer is a type of high performance polyolefin material, which is prepared by using a single-site catalyst in solution polymerization. The common activator of this system is alkyl aluminoxane or organic boron/aluminum system. Among them, organic boron is mostly triphenylcarbenium tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate or dimethylanilinium tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate. In this study, ethylene and norbornene were copolymerized with metallocene catalyst activated with the combination of tris(pentafluorophenyl)boron and triisobutylaluminium. Compared with homopolymerization of ethylene, copolymerization shows high activity. The molecular weight of the polymer increased significantly with the increase of the insertion rate of norbornene. Fineman-Ross method was used to calculate the reactivity ratio, which showed that the reactivity ratio of norbornene was much lower than that of ethylene. The high copolymerization activity may indicate that, although norbornene has a lower coordination probability, its insertion rate is higher than ethylene. The copolymer with higher norbornene incorporation has a higher glass transition temperature, and the relationship between them is linear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]