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Abstract Background To retrospectively analyze the risk factors of liver metastases in patients with gastric cancer in a single center, and to establish a Nomogram prediction model to predict the occurrence of liver metastases. Methods A total of 96 patients with gastric cancer who were also diagnosed with liver metastasis (GCLM) and treated in our center from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2020 were included. The clinical data of 1095 patients with gastric cancer who were diagnosed without liver metastases (GC) in our hospital from January 1, 2014 to December 31, 2017 were retrospectively compared by univariate and multivariate logistic regression. 309 patients diagnosed with gastric cancer in another medical center from January 1, 2014 to December 31, 2018 were introduced as external validation cohorts. Results Based on the training cohort, multivariate analysis revealed that tumor site (OR = 0.55, P = 0.046), N stage (OR = 4.95, P = 0.004), gender (OR = 0.04, P = 0.001), OPNI (OR = 0.95, P = 0.041), CEA (OR = 1.01, P = 0.018), CA724 (OR = 1.01, P = 0.006), CA242 (OR = 1.01, P = 0.006), WBC (OR = 1.13, P = 0.024), Hb (OR = 0.98, P

Abstract Background Orofacial clefts are one of the most common congenital malformations of the fetal face and ultrasound is mainly responsible for its diagnosis. It is difficult to view the fetal palate, so there is currently no unified standard for fetal palate screening, and the diagnosis of cleft palate is not included in the relevant prenatal ultrasound screening guidelines. Many prenatal diagnoses for cleft palate are missed due to the lack of effective screening methods. Therefore, it is imperative to increase the display rate of the fetal palate, which would improve the detection rate and diagnostic accuracy for cleft palate. We aim to introduce a fetal palate screening software based on the “sequential sector scan though the oral fissure”, an effective method for fetal palate screening which was verified by our follow up results and three-dimensional ultrasound and to evaluate its feasibility and clinical practicability. Methods A software was designed and programmed based on “sequential sector scan through the oral fissure” and three-dimensional ultrasound. The three-dimensional ultrasound volume data of the fetal face were imported into the software. Then, the median sagittal plane was taken as the reference interface, the anterior upper margin of the mandibular alveolar bone was selected as the fulcrum, the interval angles, and the number of layers of the sector scan were set, after which the automatic scan was performed. Thus, the sector scan sequential planes of the mandibular alveolar bone, pharynx, soft palate, hard palate, and maxillary alveolar bone were obtained in sequence to display and evaluate the palate. In addition, the feasibility and accuracy of the software in fetal palate displaying and screening was evaluated by actual clinical cases. Results Full views of the normal fetal palates and the defective parts of the cleft palates were displayed, and relatively clear sequential tomographic images and continuous dynamic videos were formed after the three-dimensional volume data of 10 normal fetal palates and 10 cleft palates were imported into the software. Conclusions The software can display fetal palates more directly which might allow for a new method of fetal palate screening and cleft palate diagnosis.

ABSTRACTThe Medium Resolution Spectral Image (MERSI) is a MODIS-like sensor aboard Fengyun-3 satellite. The first version of MERSI aerosol algorithm has been developed based on MODIS dark target (DT) algorithm, with modified models for estimating surface reflectance and an adjusted inland water masking method to release haze aerosols. This study applies MERSI DT algorithm to the global observations from the upgraded MERSI sensor (MERSI-II) on Fengyun-3D. And then, the Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) results from the year of 2019–2020 are validated against the Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) data. In addition, analyses of the spatial distribution and error characteristics of MODIS and MERSI-II retrievals are presented. The overall validation demonstrates that MERSI-II retrievals perform well globally, with a correlation coefficient of 0.877 and 67.1% of matchups within the Expected Error envelope of ± (0.05 + 0.2τ), which are close to the statistic metrics of MODIS products. In addition, MERSI-II and MODIS AODs exhibit similar error trends and error dependence. Moreover, the similar global distribution characteristics of the two AODs are revealed in the retrieval performance at site and regional scales, as well as in the analysis of monthly averages. These findings indicate the success of the ported MERSI algorithm.

Abstract Aims Herein, we examined the correlation between platelet/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (PHR) and symptoms of depression among United States adults. Methods Data acquired from the 2007–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, involving individuals ≥ 20 years of age, with available PHR and depression diagnosis information. We employed weighted uni- and multivariable logistic regression analyses to assess the distinct correlation between PHR and depressive symptoms. Additionally, we conducted subgroup, interaction, and restricted cubic spline analyses. Results In all, 28,098 subjects were recruited for analysis, with 8.04% depression status and 19.31 ± 0.11 mean PHR value. Depressive symptoms increased with higher quartiles of PHR. Following fully confounder adjustments in model 2, participants with the largest PHR quartiles exhibited a 53% (OR: 1.53, 95%CI: 1.00–2.33, P = 0.05) raised depressive symptoms, relative to participants with least PHR quartiles. Based on the two-piece-wise regression, the breakpoint was PHR = 23.76, and a positive association was more evident when PHR

Based on experimental data of composite beam-reinforced concrete column frames, a corresponding finite element (FE) numerical model was established using the OpenSees. By comparing experimental and simulation results, the feasibility of this model was verified. Furthermore, an in-depth nonlinear analysis of the seismic performance of the composite beam-reinforced concrete column frames was conducted. This analysis focused on the effects of various factors such as reinforcement ratio of slabs and columns, the section modulus of steel, axial compression ratio, concrete strength, and steel strength on the load-displacement of the such frames. Ultimately, based on the test and simulation results, a new load-displacement hysteretic model for composite beam-reinforced concrete column frames was derived, and its calculation results were compared with those from the test and simulation. The comparison indicated that the derived formula is in good agreement with the experimental data, demonstrating its applicability in structural calculation and analysis.

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the primary causes of death in women worldwide. The challenges associated with adverse outcomes have increased significantly, and the identification of novel therapeutic targets has become increasingly urgent. Regulated cell death (RCD) refers to a type of cell death that can be regulated by several different biomacromolecules, which is distinctive from accidental cell death (ACD). In recent years, apoptosis, a representative RCD pathway, has gained significance as a target for BC medications. However, tumor cells exhibit avoidance of apoptosis and result in treatment resistance, which emphasizes further studies devoted to alternative cell death processes, namely necroptosis, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis. Here, in this review, we focus on summarizing the crucial signaling pathways of these RCD in BC. We further discuss the molecular mechanism and potentiality in clinical application of several prospective drugs, nanoparticles, and other small compounds targeting different RCD subroutines of BC. We also discuss the benefits of modulating RCD processes on drug resistance and the advantages of combining RCD modulators with conventional treatments in BC. This review will deepen our understanding of the relationship between RCD and BC, and shed new light on future directions to attack cancer vulnerabilities with RCD modulators for therapeutic purposes.

Abstract Abnormal cardiac fibrosis is the main pathological change of post-myocardial infarction (MI) heart failure. Although the E3 ubiquitin ligase FBXL8 is a key regulator in the cell cycle, cell proliferation, and inflammation, its role in post-MI ventricular fibrosis and heart failure remains unknown. FBXL8 was primarily expressed in cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) and remarkably decreased in CFs treated by TGFβ and heart subjected to MI. The echocardiography and histology data suggested that adeno-associated viruses (AAV9)-mediated FBXL8 overexpression had improved cardiac function and ameliorated post-MI cardiac fibrosis. In vitro, FBXL8 overexpression prevented TGFβ-induced proliferation, migration, contraction, and collagen secretion in CFs, while knockdown of FBXL8 demonstrated opposite effects. Mechanistically, FBXL8 interacted with Snail1 to promote Snail1 degradation through the ubiquitin–proteasome system and decreased the activation of RhoA. Moreover, the FBXL8ΔC3 binding domain was indispensable for Snail1 interaction and degradation. Ectopic Snail1 expression partly abolished the effects mediated by FBXL8 overexpression in CFs treated by TGFβ. These results characterized the role of FBXL8 in regulating the ubiquitin-mediated degradation of Snail1 and revealed the underlying molecular mechanism of how MI up-regulated the myofibroblasts differentiation-inducer Snail1 and suggested that FBXL8 may be a potential curative target for improving post-MI cardiac function.

Abstract The utilization of optimal orthodontic force is crucial to prevent undesirable side effects and ensure efficient tooth movement during orthodontic treatment. However, the sensitivity of existing detection techniques is not sufficient, and the criteria for evaluating optimal force have not been yet established. Here, by employing 3D finite element analysis methodology, we found that the apical distal region (A-D region) of mesial roots is particularly sensitive to orthodontic force in rats. Tartrate-resistant acidic phosphatase (TRAP)-positive osteoclasts began accumulating in the A-D region under the force of 40 grams (g), leading to alveolar bone resorption and tooth movement. When the force reached 80 g, TRAP-positive osteoclasts started appearing on the root surface in the A-D region. Additionally, micro-computed tomography revealed a significant root resorption at 80 g. Notably, the A-D region was identified as a major contributor to whole root resorption. It was determined that 40 g is the minimum effective force for tooth movement with minimal side effects according to the analysis of tooth movement, inclination, and hyalinization. These findings suggest that the A-D region with its changes on the root surface is an important consideration and sensitive indicator when evaluating orthodontic forces for a rat model. Collectively, our investigations into this region would aid in offering valuable implications for preventing and minimizing root resorption during patients’ orthodontic treatment.

Objective(s): Endoscopic thyroidectomy, such as axillary, areola and transoral approaches, offer the advantage of a good cosmetic outcome, but it requires a wider dissection field compared to open thyroidectomy. Recently, chest-collarbone approach thyroidectomy has been widely developed in China because of its shorter anatomical route compared to other endoscopic approaches. This study retrospectively evaluated endoscopic thyroidectomy via chest-collarbone approach in patients with thyroid nodules to determine its feasibility. Methods: A total of 46 patients with thyroid disease who underwent endoscopic thyroidectomy between January 2022 and December 2022 were enrolled in the study and randomly matched to patients with thyroid disease who underwent open thyroidectomy at the same time based on nodule size and pathology. Postoperative bleeding, hoarseness situation, hospital stay, postoperative drainage volume, laryngeal nerve palsy, hypoparathyroidism and wound infection were assessed in both groups. Results: Forty-four patients underwent endoscopic thyroidectomy successfully and two patients changed to open thyroidectomy. The amount of postoperative drainage for the endoscopic thyroidectomy group was 102.78 ± 28.04 mL, and which was 71.91 ± 19.20 for open thyroidectomy group (p

The melt pools, the most basic units of the components fabricated by the selective laser melting (SLM) technology, play an important role in the mechanical properties of the structures. A self-developed in-situ tensile observation platform was used to carry out the in-situ tensile test of SLMed AlSi10Mg alloy specimens under the observation of optical microscope. With a series of obtained experimental data on mechanical properties and metallurgical images, combined with the digital image correlation(DIC) technology, the melt pool of the specimen and the strain of defects were analyzed, and the deformation and fracture mechanism of the SLMed AlSi10Mg alloy specimens was obtained. The results show that the proposed method successfully obtains the deformation field evolution data of the melt pool and defects, which provides experimental and theoretical support for the further study of crack extension characteristics and fatigue life prediction of SLMed metallic material components.

Abstract SiamFC++ only extracts the object feature of the first frame as a tracking template, and only uses the highest level feature maps in both the classification branch and the regression branch, so that the respective characteristics of the two branches are not fully utilized. In view of this, the present paper proposes an object tracking algorithm based on SiamFC++. The algorithm uses the multi-layer features of the Siamese network to update template. First, FPN is used to extract feature maps from different layers of Backbone for classification branch and regression branch. Second, 3D convolution is used to update the tracking template of the object tracking algorithm. Next, a template update judgment condition is proposed based on mutual information. Finally, AlexNet is used as the backbone and GOT-10K as training set. Compared with SiamFC++, our algorithm obtains improved results on OTB100, VOT2016, VOT2018 and GOT-10k data sets, and the tracking process is real time.

In this study, gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) based dual wire additive manufacturing (D-WAAM) is adopted to fabricate the functionally graded material (FGM) from stainless steel (SS) 304 to Fe–40Al, using SS 304 and aluminum alloy (AA) 1070 wires. The Al/Fe atomic ratio varies from 0 to 40 % by varying the ratio of the wire feed speeds of the SS and AA wires. The chemical composition, phases, microstructure, and mechanical properties of the FGM are investigated. The results showed that with the increase of Al content, microstructures evolve as follows: γ-Fe → γ-Fe + α-Fe → α-Fe → Fe3Al → FeAl. Cracks occur in FeAl region, caused by the high stress and the low plasticity. Dislocation walls prevent the large grains from slipping, leading to the loss of plasticity. The microhardness of SS 304 to Fe–40Al FGM ranges from 188HV0.5 to 558HV0.5. As Al content increases, the ultimate compressive strength decreases from 1820 MPa to 1061 MPa. The results on microstructure and mechanical properties provide guidance for the preparation of steel - aluminum alloy FGMs.

To meet the Chinese government’s energy-saving and emission-reduction policies, flexible peak regulation is necessary for traditional coal-fired boilers. Flexible peaking leads to large changes in boiler load, which affects the safety of the boiler water wall. In this paper, a 1000 MW ultra-supercritical unit was tracked for three years, and effective data were selected to study the temperature characteristics of the water wall under flexible peak regulation. The results show that the lower the load, the greater the temperature fluctuation of the water wall. The temperature distribution of the spiral water wall is more uniform. The position of the temperature valley value of the rear spiral water wall was found, and the load of more even temperature distribution was also found. The temperature change of the front vertical water wall was the most complex of all the water walls. The 643.9 MW load case showed different behavior to the temperature distribution of the water wall. The side water walls were heated evenly under the different loads. The characteristics of the temperature distribution of the side vertical water wall were found through statistical analysis. The fitting equation for the change rule of the temperature is presented. The higher the load, the better the equations. Finally, this paper gives some advice on how to avoid temperature deviation in the water wall, and the detailed research highlights the safe running of water walls.

Catechins, a class of polyphenolic compounds found in tea, have attracted significant attention due to their numerous health benefits, particularly for the treatment and protection of hypertension. However, the potential targets and mechanisms of action of catechins in combating hypertension remain unclear. This study systematically investigates the anti-hypertensive mechanisms of tea catechins using network pharmacology, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulation techniques. The results indicate that 23 potential anti-hypertensive targets for eight catechin components were predicted through public databases. The analysis of protein–protein interaction (PPI) identified three key targets (MMP9, BCL2, and HIF1A). KEGG pathway and GO enrichment analyses revealed that these key targets play significant roles in regulating vascular smooth muscle contraction, promoting angiogenesis, and mediating vascular endothelial growth factor receptor signaling. The molecular docking results demonstrate that the key targets (MMP9, BCL2, and HIF1A) effectively bind with catechin components (CG, GCG, ECG, and EGCG) through hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions. Molecular dynamics simulations further confirmed the stability of the binding between catechins and the targets. This study systematically elucidates the potential mechanisms by which tea catechins treat anti-hypertension and provides a theoretical basis for the development and application of tea catechins as functional additives for the prevention of hypertension.

Objective: Composite Dietary Antioxidant Index (CDAI) values serve as a summary of an individual's combined dietary antioxidant intake. Although specific antioxidants are known to reduce thyroid damage from oxidative stress, the relationship between the CDAI and thyroid function remains uncertain. The purpose of this study was thus to investigate this relationship in greater detail while focusing on a representative American adult population. Methods: A total of 6,860 subjects from the 2007–2012 NHANES cohort were included in this study. Associations between CDAI values and thyroid function were evaluated with weighted linear regression models and smoothed curve fitting. Subgroup analyses were also performed. Results: The weighted mean (SD) values for variables analyzed in this study included a CDAI of 0.13 (0.06), serum free T4 (FT4) levels of 0.80 (0.01) ng/dL, and serum total T4 (TT4) levels of 7.80 (0.03) ug/dL. Lower CDAI values were found to be associated with higher levels of FT4 and TT4 using both unadjusted and adjusted models that accounted for relevant confounders (adjusted model, FT4 β = −0.003, p = 0.005; TT4 β = −0.035, p

Abstract The realization of large‐scale industrial application of alkaline water electrolysis for hydrogen generation is severely hampered by the cost of electricity. Therefore, it is currently necessary to synthesize highly efficient electrocatalysts with excellent stability and low overpotential under an industrial‐level current density. Herein, Ir‐incorporated in partially oxidized Ru aerogel has been designed and synthesized via a simple in situ reduction strategy and subsequent oxidation process. The electrochemical measurements demonstrate that the optimized Ru98Ir2‐350 electrocatalyst exhibits outstanding hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance in an alkaline environment (1 M KOH). Especially, at the large current density of 1000 mA cm−2, the overpotential is as low as 121 mV, far exceeding the benchmark Pt/C catalyst. Moreover, the Ru98Ir2‐350 catalyst also displays excellent stability over 1500 h at 1000 mA cm−2, denoting its industrial applicability. This work provides an efficient route for developing highly active and ultra‐stable electrocatalysts for hydrogen generation under industrial‐level current density.

Abstract Background Lymph node (LN) metastasis is the most common metastasis route in gastric cancer. Extensive dissection of LNs can significantly improve the prognosis of patients with gastric cancer. Recently, multiple clinical studies have demonstrated that either indocyanine green (ICG) or carbon nanoparticles (CNs) can assist to promote the dissection of LNs during laparoscopic radical gastrectomy. Considering the pros and cons of the two tracers, this study proposed a novel method of dual tracer (ICG combined with CNs) for lymphatic tracing in laparoscopic gastric cancer surgery. Methods This trial is a prospective, randomized controlled trial (RCT) with an estimation of 516 participants that randomize into 4 groups (1:1:1:1), namely control group, ICG group, CNs group, and dual tracer group. The primary outcome is the number of dissected LNs. The secondary outcomes include positive rate, false positive rate, negative rate, false negative rate, number of metastatic LNs, relationship between LN metastasis and tracer stained, operation duration, blood loss, incision length, morbidity and mortality rate, 3-year DFS (disease free survival), PFS (progression-free survival), and OS (overall survival). Discussion This study will investigate the efficacy and safety of a novel strategy using dual tracers for laparoscopic gastrectomy. The protocol has been approved by the Ethics Committee of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital (2021-361-02). The trial findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals. Trial registration Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2100051309). Registered 18 September 2021, https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=133764 .

Abstract In this multicenter, single-arm phase 2 trial (ChiCTR1900024428), patients with locally advanced gastric/gastroesophageal junction cancers receive one cycle of sintilimab (anti-PD1) and chemotherapy (S-1 and nab-paclitaxel), followed by 5 weeks of concurrent chemoradiotherapy and sintilimab, and another cycle of sintilimab and chemotherapy thereafter. Surgery is preferably scheduled within one to three weeks, and three cycles of adjuvant sintilimab and chemotherapy are administrated. The primary endpoint is the pathological complete response. Our results meet the pre-specified primary endpoint. Thirteen of 34 (38.2%) enrolled patients achieve pathological complete response (95% CI: 22.2-56.4). The secondary objectives include disease-free survival (DFS), major pathological response, R0 resection rate, overall survival (OS), event-free survival (EFS), and safety profile. The median DFS and EFS were 17.0 (95%CI: 11.1-20.9) and 21.1 (95%CI: 14.7-26.1) months, respectively, while the median OS was not reached, and the 1-year OS rate was 92.6% (95%CI: 50.1-99.5%). Seventeen patients (50.0%) have grade ≥3 adverse events during preoperative therapy. In prespecified exploratory biomarker analysis, CD3+ T cells, CD56+ NK cells, and the M1/M1 + M2-like macrophage infiltration at baseline are associated with pathological complete response. Here, we show the promising efficacy and manageable safety profile of sintilimab in combination with concurrent chemoradiotherapy for the perioperative treatment of locally advanced gastric/gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma.

Abstract Objectives Tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs) are lymphocyte aggregates that play an anti‐tumor role in most solid tumors. However, the functions of TLS in gastric neuroendocrine neoplasms (GNENs) remain unknown. This study aimed to determine the characteristics and prognostic values of TLS in resected GNEN patients. Methods Haematoxylin–eosin, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and multiple fluorescent IHC staining were used to assess TLS to investigate the correlation between TLSs and clinicopathological characteristics and its prognostic value. Results Tertiary lymphoid structures were identified in 84.3% of patients with GNEN. They were located in the stromal area or outside the tumor tissue and mainly composed of B and T cells. A high density of TLSs promoted an anti‐tumor immune response in GNEN. CD15+ TANs and FOXP3+ Tregs in TLSs inhibited the formation of TLSs. High TLS density was significantly associated with prolonged recurrence‐free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) of GNENs. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses revealed that TLS density, tumor size, tumor–node–metastasis (TNM) stage and World Health Organisation (WHO) classification were independent prognostic factors for OS, whereas TLS density, tumor size and TNM stage were independent prognostic factors for RFS. Finally, OS and RFS nomograms were developed and validated, which were superior to the WHO classification and the TNM stage. Conclusion Tertiary lymphoid structures were mainly located in the stromal area or outside the tumor area, and high TLS density was significantly associated with the good prognosis of patients with GNEN. Incorporating TLS density into a nomogram may improve survival prediction in patients with resected GNEN.

Antibiotic resistance in Enterococcus faecium, Enterococcus faecalis, and Staphylococcus aureus remains a major public health concern worldwide. Furthermore, these microbes frequently co-exist in biofilm-associated infections, largely nullifying antibiotic-based therapy. Therefore, it is imperative to develop an efficient therapeutic strategy for combating infections caused by polymicrobial biofilms. In this study, we investigated the antibacterial and antibiofilm activity of the bacteriophage endolysin Ply113 in vitro. Ply113 exhibited high and rapid lytic activity against E. faecium, E. faecalis, and S. aureus, including vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus and methicillin-resistant S. aureus isolates. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that Ply113 treatment led to the detachment of bacterial cell walls and considerable cell lysis. Ply113 maintained stable lytic activity over a temperature range of 4–45°C, over a pH range of 5.0–8.0, and in the presence of 0–400 mM NaCl. Ply113 treatment effectively eliminated the mono-species biofilms formed by E. faecium, E. faecalis, and S. aureus in a dose-dependent manner. Ply113 was also able to eliminate the dual-species biofilms of E. faecium–S. aureus and E. faecalis–S. aureus. Additionally, Ply113 exerted potent antibacterial efficacy in vivo, distinctly decreasing the bacterial loads in a murine peritoneal septicemia model. Our findings suggest that the bacteriophage endolysin Ply113 is a promising antimicrobial agent for the treatment of polymicrobial infections.

Abstract Background Prenatal diagnosis of cleft palate is still challenging. To describe a practical and efficient method, sequential sector-scan through oral fissure (SSTOF), to evaluate palate. Methods According to the characteristics of the fetal oral anatomy and ultrasonic directivity, we designed a practical method, sequential sector-scan through oral fissure, to evaluate the fetal palate, and the approach was verified efficiently by following up results of those fetuses with orofacial cleft who were induced because of their accompanied lethal malformations. Then, the 7098 fetuses were evaluated using sequential sector-scan through oral fissure. Fetuses were followed up after birth or induction to validate and analyze prenatal diagnosis. Result According to the scanning design, sequential sector-scan through oral fissure was performed successfully from the soft palate to the upper alveolar ridge in induced labor fetuses, and the structures were displayed clearly. Among 7098 fetuses, satisfactory images were obtained for 6885 fetuses and the remaining 213 fetuses’ images were unsatisfactory because of fetuses’ positions and pregnant women with high BMI. Among 6885 fetuses, 31cases were diagnosed CLP or CP, which were confirmed after delivery or termination. There were no missing cases. Conclusions SSTOF is a practical and efficient method to diagnose cleft palate, which might be applied to evaluate the fetal palate in prenatal diagnosis.

Abstract The object tracking algorithm based on Siamese network often extracts the deep feature of the target to be tracked from the first frame of the video sequence as a template, and uses the template for the whole tracking process. Because the manually annotated target in the first frame of video sequence is more accurate, these algorithms often have stable performance. However, it is difficult to adapt to the changing target features only using the target template extracted from the first frame. Inspired by the feature fusion network based on a transformer, this paper proposes a template update module called multi‐template temporary information fusion module (MTFM), which can be trained offline. By fusing multiple target template features on time series, the template can always adapt to the changes of target appearance in the tracking process. In order to train the MTFM, this paper proposes a training method using time series data and Mean Square Error (MSE) as the loss function. This paper uses the MTFM on SiamFC++ tracker, and obtains good experimental results in three challenging datasets, including VOT2016, OTB100 and GOT‐10k. The running speed of the algorithm on graphics processing unit (GPU) is maintained at about 200fps, which exhibits good real‐time performance.

Abstract. Background:. China bears the biggest atrial fibrillation (AF) burden in the world. However, little is known about the incidence and predictors of AF. This study aimed to investigate the current incidence of AF and its electrocardiographic (ECG) predictors in general community individuals aged over 60 years in China. Methods:. This was a prospective cohort study, recruiting subjects who were aged over 60 years and underwent annual health checkups from April to July 2015 in four community health centers in Songjiang District, Shanghai, China. The subjects were then followed up from 2015 to 2019 annually. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, medical history, and the resting 12-lead ECG were collected. Kaplan–Meier curve was used for showing the trends in AF incidence and calculating the predictors of AF. Associations of ECG abnormalities and AF incidence were examined using Cox proportional hazard models. Results:. This study recruited 18,738 subjects, and 351 (1.87%) developed AF. The overall incidence rate of AF was 5.2/1000 person-years during an observation period of 67,704 person-years. Multivariable Cox regression analysis indicated age (hazard ratio [HR], 1.07; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.06–1.09; P

Circulating fluidized bed (CFB) boilers offer a technically viable and environmentally friendly means for the clean and efficient utilization of solid fuels. However, the complex gas–solid two-phase flow processes within them have hindered a thorough resolution of prediction issues related to coupled combustion, heat transfer, and pollutant generation characteristics. To address the deficiencies in scientific research, meet the practical operational needs of CFB boilers, and comply with new carbon emission policies, conducting full-scale field tests on large-scale CFB boilers is needed, so that the complex gas–solid flow, combustion, and heat transfer mechanisms in the furnace can be comprehended. In this paper, issues related to large-scale CFB boilers, including the uniformity of air distribution, secondary air injection range, spatial distribution of oxygen consumption and combustion reactions, distribution of pollutant generation, hydrodynamic and heat transfer characteristics, coal feeding distribution characteristics, coal diffusion characteristics under thermal operating conditions, and engineering research on anti-wear technology, are reviewed. By integrating practical engineering applications, the basic methods and measurement techniques used in full-scale field tests for large-scale CFB boilers are summarized, providing a practical reference for conducting engineering tests with large-scale CFB boilers.

Abstract Hand function assessment is an essential component of the process of stroke rehabilitation because of the high incidence of hand motor dysfunction. In terms of the manual evaluation of hand function, the Fugl‐Meyer scale is a recommended scale with high reliability and validity. However, the need for accurate assessments and increasing developments in technology has led to the promotion of automatic quantitative assessment systems for the hand. In this study, we collected quantitative data on hand function with an automatic system and the upper limb Fugl‐Meyer assessment (FMA) from 79 people with stroke. We developed decision tree (DT) and gradient‐boosted decision tree (GBDT) predictive models for the Fugl‐Meyer score using features extracted from the Hand Automatic Quantitative Assessment System (HAQAS). Predictive performances were compared between these models regarding the predictive accuracy and Cohen's kappa. There were high correlations between features automatically collected by the HAQAS and the Fugl‐Meyer scale in all the sub‐items, with the maximal correlations all being over 0.5, indicating the high validity of the HAQAS in automatic FMA prediction. Hand functions were more highly correlated (average correlation coefficient 0.90) with HAQAS features than wrist functions (average correlation coefficient 0.54), and the GBDT achieved higher predictive accuracies and agreement than the DT algorithm. We conclude that the HAQAS is feasible for stroke patients with hand dysfunction and convenient for clinicians and therapists. This study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR1800019098).

Abstract Objective Researchers have developed the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) as a tool to quantify the inflammatory potential of a given diet. Higher DII scores indicated a more proinflammatory diet. While inflammation is known to have a strong impact on thyroid function, the precise nature of the association between DII scores and thyroid function has yet to be clarified. This study was conducted with the goal of exploring this relationship in a representative population of adults from the United States. Methods For this study, we used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Standardized questionnaires were used to collect demographic and dietary data from the participants, and laboratory tests were used to collect data on the participants' thyroid parameters and other relevant data. Linear regression models and smoothed curve fitting were used to assess the relationship between DII scores and thyroid function, with weighted data analyses and subgroup analyses being conducted as appropriate. Results In total, 7712 subjects were recruited from the NHANES 2007–2012 cohort. Their weighted mean age was 44.87 (0.47) years, mean DII score was 1.41 (0.05). Mean FT3 was 3.20 (0.01) pg/mL and mean TT4 was 7.81 (0.03) µg/dL. In adjusted analyses, higher DII values were related to increases in FT3 (β = .007; p = .027) and TT4 (β = .050; p = .005) levels. Subgroup analyses showed a negative correlation between FT3 levels and DII scores in a population with high urinary iodine concentrations. Conclusion These data indicate that the consumption of a more proinflammatory diet, as evidenced by elevated DII scores, is correlated with significant increases in FT3 and TT4 levels. However, for people with high urinary iodine concentrations, a more proinflammatory diet was associated with lower FT3 levels. Additional research will be vital to clarify the mechanistic basis for these findings.

The development of wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) provides a new solution for manufacturing aluminum alloy (AA) components used in lightweight mobile heat storage equipment. AA5356 component is deposited at a wire feed speed of 7.3 m/min and a welding speed of 1000 mm/min with the cold metal transfer-advanced mode. Adjusting the deposition angle to 90° between layers can enhance the microstructure and mechanical properties of the WAAM AA5356 component. The quasi in situ idea is proposed to investigate the microstructures, defects evolution, and mechanical property differences during the successive deposited. The results showed that the average grain size increases with increasing deposition height. The microstructures are uniform, except for the interlayer with refined equiaxed grains. The porosity increases gradually from 1.23% to 1.75% as the deposition height increases, and the average diameter of the micropores increases from 16.54 μm to 21.91 μm. In contrast, the microhardness of WAAM AA5356 component gradually decreases, and the microhardness of the interlayer area is higher than that of the innerlayer. The ultimate tensile strength, yield strength, and elongation are 286 MPa, 142 MPa, and 23%, respectively. Compared with casting AA5356, the ultimate tensile and yield strengths are 32.2% and 40.5% greater, respectively, while the elongation is almost equal. As the grain sizes increase with the heat accumulation effect, the microhardness decreases and the elongation increases while the tensile strength decreases, mainly due to the high proportion of large micropores in the top area.

Multidrug resistance (MDR), which is common in colorectal cancer (CRC), induces high mortality in patients. Due to its robust and selective apoptosis induction in some CRC cells with MDR, tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) is attractive as a novel tool for CRC therapy. However, TRAIL is limited by its poor tumor-homing ability and inefficient apoptosis induction in CRC cells expressing low levels of death receptor (DR). Here, the tumor-homing RGR peptide (CRGRRST) was fused to TRAIL to produce RGR-TRAIL. Compared with TRAIL, RGR-TRAIL showed greater cell binding and cytotoxicity in CRC cells. In addition, RGR-TRAIL exerted significantly enhanced tumor uptake and growth suppression in mice bearing CRC tumor xenografts. Notably, RGR-TRAIL eradicated all tumor xenografts of DR-overexpressing COLO205 cells. However, TRAIL only showed mild tumor growth suppression under the same conditions, indicating that RGR fusion significantly increased the antitumor effect of TRAIL in DR-overexpressing CRC cells by improving tumor homing. Nevertheless, RGR fusion did not significantly enhance the antitumor effect of TRAIL in HT29 cells expressing low levels of DR. We found that DR expression in HT29 cells was enhanced by epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-targeted photodynamic therapy (PDT). Moreover, both the in vitro and in vivo antitumor effects of RGR-TRAIL were significantly improved by combination with PDT. HT29 tumor xenografts (∼20%) were even eradicated by combination therapy. These results indicate that it is valuable to further evaluate the combination therapy of RGR-TRAIL and tumor-targeted PDT for clinical therapy of CRC with MDR.

Abstract Bone regeneration remains a great clinical challenge. Low intensity near-infrared (NIR) light showed strong potential to promote tissue regeneration, offering a promising strategy for bone defect regeneration. However, the effect and underlying mechanism of NIR on bone regeneration remain unclear. We demonstrated that bone regeneration in the rat skull defect model was significantly accelerated with low-intensity NIR stimulation. In vitro studies showed that NIR stimulation could promote the osteoblast differentiation in bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and MC3T3-E1 cells, which was associated with increased ubiquitination of the core circadian clock protein Cryptochrome 1 (CRY1) in the nucleus. We found that the reduction of CRY1 induced by NIR light activated the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling pathways, promoting SMAD1/5/9 phosphorylation and increasing the expression levels of Runx2 and Osterix. NIR light treatment may act through sodium voltage-gated channel Scn4a, which may be a potential responder of NIR light to accelerate bone regeneration. Together, these findings suggest that low-intensity NIR light may promote in situ bone regeneration in a CRY1-dependent manner, providing a novel, efficient and non-invasive strategy to promote bone regeneration for clinical bone defects.

The valid joining of aluminum and steel plays an important role in support structure of heat exchanger, which was widely used in chemical, automobile and aircraft industries, etc. In this work, in order to improve the connection of aluminum to steel joints, the friction stir welding (FSW) method was applied to weld a 3003 aluminum alloy to a 304 stainless steel. The microstructures, mechanical properties and fracture mechanism of FSWed joints were studied. The results showed that an optimal joint was obtained at the rotational speed of 200 rpm, the traverse speed of 30 mm/min and the offset of 3.0 mm. The distance of root incomplete penetration increased with the raise of offset and the rotational speed. The offset had a more significant effect on the microstructure of the welded joints compared with the rotational speed. Both the tensile property and the microhardness of the stir zone improved with the decrease of rotational speed at the offset of 3.0 mm. The FSWed joints firstly generated stress concentration at the weld root during loading. With the further increase of the load, the weld root cracked and finally broke in the stir zone.

Abstract Background The relationship between triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index, an emerging marker of insulin resistance, and the risk of incident heart failure (HF) was unclear. This study thus aimed to investigate this relationship. Methods Subjects without prevalent cardiovascular diseases from the prospective Kailuan cohort (recruited during 2006–2007) and a retrospective cohort of family medicine patients from Hong Kong (recruited during 2000–2003) were followed up until December 31st, 2019 for the outcome of incident HF. Separate adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) summarizing the relationship between TyG index and HF risk in the two cohorts were combined using a random-effect meta-analysis. Additionally, a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) of published genome-wide association study data was performed to assess the causality of observed associations. Results In total, 95,996 and 19,345 subjects from the Kailuan and Hong Kong cohorts were analyzed, respectively, with 2,726 cases of incident HF in the former and 1,709 in the latter. Subjects in the highest quartile of TyG index had the highest risk of incident HF in both cohorts (Kailuan: aHR 1.23 (95% confidence interval: 1.09–1.39), P Trend

Abstract Background As a near-physiological pacing innovation, left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) has drawn much attention recently. This study was aimed to investigate the electrophysiological characteristics, unipolar/bipolar pacing parameters and mid- to long-term effects and safety of three different pacing methods and identify possible predictors of adverse left ventricular remodeling. Methods Ninety-two patients were divided into the LBBAP group, right ventricular septal pacing (RVSP) group and right ventricular apical pacing (RVAP) group. Baseline information, electrophysiological, pacing and echocardiographic parameters were collected. Results The three pacing methods were performed with a similar high success rate. The paced QRSd was significantly different among the LBBAP, RVSP and RVAP groups (105.93 ± 15.85 ms vs. 143.63 ± 14.71 ms vs. 155.39 ± 14.17 ms, p 0.05). Conclusions LBBAP demonstrated a stable captured threshold, a low tip impedance and a high R-wave amplitude during the 12-month follow-up. Left ventricular remodeling was improved at 12 months post-procedure through LBBAP. The Sti-LVAT was a significant predictor of left ventricular remodeling. LBBAP demonstrated its feasibility, effectiveness, safety and some beneficial electrophysiological characteristics during this mid- to long-term follow-up, which should be confirmed by further studies.

Abstract Background Mitochondria play an essential role in cellular redox homeostasis maintenance and meanwhile serve as an important target for organelle targeted therapy. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising strategy for organelle targeted therapy with noninvasive nature and highly spatiotemporal selectivity. However, the efficacy of PDT is not fully achieved due to tumor hypoxia. Moreover, aerobic respiration constantly consumes oxygen and leads to a lower oxygen concentration in mitochondria, which continuously limited the therapeutic effects of PDT. The lack of organelle specific oxygen delivery method remains a main challenge. Methods Herein, an Oxygen Tank is developed to achieve the organelle targeted synergistic hypoxia reversal strategy, which not only act as an oxygen storage tank to open sources and reduce expenditure, but also coated with red blood cell membrane like the tank with stealth coating. Within the oxygen tank, a mitochondrion targeted photosensitizer (IR780) and a mitochondria respiration inhibitor (atovaquone, ATO) are co-loaded in the RBC membrane (RBCm) coated perfluorocarbon (PFC) liposome core. Results Inside these bio-mimic nanoparticles, ATO effectively inhibits mitochondrial respiration and economized endogenous oxygen consumption, while PFC supplied high-capacity exogenous oxygen. These Oxygen modulators reverse the hypoxia status in vitro and in vivo, and exhibited a superior anti-tumor activity by mitochondria targeted PDT via IR780. Ultimately, the anti-tumor effects towards gastric cancer and colon cancer are elicited in vivo. Conclusions This oxygen tank both increases exogeneous oxygen supply and decreases endogenous oxygen consumption, may offer a novel solution for organelle targeted therapies.

Catechins are the major flavor substances in teas, which have a variety of health effects; however, high catechin and high sensory quality are a pair of contradictions that are difficult to coordinate. To explore the processing procedure with high catechins and high sensory quality, a single-factor processing experiment was carried out over the processing production of oolong tea. Combined with orthogonal partial least square discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA), correlation analysis, and principal component analysis (PCA), the optimal production procedure for oolong tea is as follows: red light withering for 8 h, leaf rotating for 10 min with a total standing time for 8 h, drum roasting for 5 min at 290 °C, low-temperature rolling (flattening at 4 °C for 5 min, without pressure for 1 min and under pressure for 5 min), microwave drying (800 W for 7.5 min). This study demonstrates a significant increase in the retention of catechins, which contributes to the mellow and brisk tastes of oolong tea, addressing the challenge of catechin content and sensory quality. Our study provides a novel insight into the relationship between the oolong tea processing and flavor formation.

Activating Wireless Power Transfer (WPT) in Radio-Frequency (RF) to provide on-demand energy supply to widely deployed Internet of Everything devices is a key to the next-generation energy self-sustainable 6G network. However, Simultaneous Wireless Information and Power Transfer (SWIPT) in the same RF bands is challenging. The majority of previous studies compared SWIPT performance to Gaussian signaling with an infinite alphabet, which is impossible to implement in any realistic communication system. In contrast, we study the SWIPT system in a well-known Nakagami-m wireless fading channel using practical modulation techniques with finite alphabet. The attainable rate-energy-reliability tradeoff and the corresponding rationale are revealed for fixed modulation schemes. Furthermore, an adaptive modulation-based transceiver is provided for further expanding the attainable rate-energy-reliability region based on various SWIPT performances of different modulation schemes. The modulation switching thresholds and transmit power allocation at the SWIPT transmitter and the power splitting ratios at the SWIPT receiver are jointly optimized to maximize the attainable spectrum efficiency of wireless information transfer while satisfying the WPT requirement and the instantaneous and average BER constraints. Numerical results demonstrate the SWIPT performance of various fixed modulation schemes in different fading conditions. The advantage of the adaptive modulation-based SWIPT transceiver is validated.

As the main flavor components of tea, the contents of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), theanine and caffeine are regulated by ambient temperature. However, whether the biosynthesis of EGCG, theanine and caffeine in response to temperature is regulated by endogenous hormones and its mechanism is still unclear. In this study, tea cuttings cultivated in the phytotron which treated at different temperatures 15℃, 20℃, 25℃ and 30℃, respectively. The UPLC and ESI-HPLC-MS/MS were used to determine the contents of EGCG, theanine, caffeine and the contents of phytohormones in one leaf and a bud. The results showed that indoleacetic acid (IAA), gibberellin 1(GA1) and gibberellin 3 (GA3) were significantly correlated with the content of EGCG; Jasmonic acid (JA), jasmonate-isoleucine (JA-Ile) and methyl jasmonate (MeJA) were strongly correlated with theanine content; IAA, GA1 and gibberellin 4 (GA4) were significantly correlated with caffeine content at different temperatures. In order to explore the internal intricate relationships between the biosynthesis of these three main taste components, endogenous hormones, and structural genes in tea plants, we used multi-omics and multidimensional correlation analysis to speculate the regulatory mechanisms: IAA, GA1 and GA3 up-regulated the expressions of chalcone synthase (CsCHS) and trans-cinnamate 4-monooxygenase (CsC4H) mediated by the signal transduction factors auxin-responsive protein IAA (CsIAA) and DELLA protein (CsDELLA), respectively, which promoted the biosynthesis of EGCG; IAA, GA3 and GA1 up-regulated the expression of CsCHS and anthocyanidin synthase (CsANS) mediated by CsIAA and CsDELLA, respectively, via the transcription factor WRKY DNA-binding protein (CsWRKY), and promoted the biosynthesis of EGCG; JA, JA-Ile and MeJA jointly up-regulated the expression of carbonic anhydrase (CsCA) and down-regulated the expression of glutamate decarboxylase (CsgadB) mediated by the signal transduction factors jasmonate ZIM domain-containing protein (CsJAZ), and promoted the biosynthesis of theanine; JA, JA-Ile and MeJA also jointly inhibited the expression of CsgadB mediated by CsJAZ via the transcription factor CsWRKY and AP2 family protein (CsAP2), which promoted the biosynthesis of theanine; IAA inhibited the expression of adenylosuccinate synthase (CspurA) mediated by CsIAA via the transcription factor CsWRKY; GA1 and gibberellin 4 (GA4) inhibited the expression of CspurA mediated by CsDELLA through the transcription factor CsWRKY, which promoted the biosynthesis of caffeine. In conclusion, we revealed the underlying mechanism of the biosynthesis of the main taste components in tea plant in response to temperature was mediated by hormone signal transduction factors, which provided novel insights into improving the quality of tea.

IntroductionInnate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are key components of the immune system, yet the similarity and distinction of the properties across tissues under homeostasis, inflammation and tumor process remain elusive.MethodsHere we performed integrative inference of ILCs to reveal their transcriptional profiles and heterogeneity from single-cell genomics. We collected a large number of ILCs from human six different tissues which can represent unique immune niches (circulation, lymphoid tissue, normal and inflamed mucosa, tumor microenvironment), to systematically address the transcriptional imprinting.ResultsILCs are profoundly imprinted by their organ of residence, and tissue-specific distinctions are apparent under pathological conditions. In the hepatocellular carcinoma microenvironment, we identified intermediate c-kit+ ILC2 population, and lin-CD127- NK-like cells that expressed markers of cytotoxicity including CCL5 and IFNG. Additionally, CD127+CD94+ ILC1s were preferentially enriched in inflamed ileum from patients with Crohn’s disease.DiscussionThese analyses depicted a comprehensive characterization of ILC anatomical distribution and subset heterogeneity, and provided a base line for future temporal or spatial studies focused on tissue-specific ILC-mediated immunity.

Abstract Background To understand the effect of DNMT1-mediated MEG3 promoter methylation on breast cancer progression. Methods Expression of DNMT1, MEG3 and miR-494-3p was assayed by qRT-PCR and western blot. Methylation-specific PCR was used to examine MEG3 promoter methylation level. ChIP, RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation assay and dual-luciferase reporter gene assay were applied to verify interaction between DNMT1 and MEG3, miR-494-3p and MEG3 and OTUD4. CCK-8, wound healing and Transwell assays were used to detect biological functions of breast cancer cells. Tumor growth was observed by tumor xenograft model. Results DNMT1 and miR-494-3p were highly expressed while MEG3 and OTUD4 were lowly expressed in breast cancer cells. Knockdown of DNMT1 inhibited progression of breast cancer cells by enhance MEG3 expression through demethylation. MEG3 could downregulate miR-494-3p expression, and OTUD4 was a target of miR-494-3p. Upregulation of MEG3 and downregulation of miR-494-3p both inhibited malignant behavior of cells in vitro. In addition, high MEG3 expression restrained growth of breast cancer in vivo. Conclusion Briefly, our results demonstrated that, DNMT1 induced methylation of MEG3 promoter, and played a key role in breast cancer growth throughmiR-494-3p/OTUD4 axis. These findings provide new insights into molecular therapeutic targets for breast cancer.

This paper proposes a low-noise amplifier (LNA) for terahertz communication systems. The amplifier is designed based on 90 nm InP high-electron-mobility transistor (HEMT) technology. In order to achieve high gain of LNA, the proposed amplifier adopts a five-stage amplification structure. At the same time, the use of staggered tuning technology has achieved a large bandwidth of terahertz low-noise amplification. In addition, capacitors are used for interstage isolation, sector lines are used for RF bypass, and Microstrip is used to design matching circuits. The entire LNA circuit was validated using accurate electromagnetic simulation. The simulation results show that at 140 GHz, the small signal gain is 25 dB, the noise figure is 4.4 dB, the input 1 dB compression point is −19 dBm, and the 3 dB bandwidth reaches 60 GHz (110–170 GHz), which validates the effectiveness of the design.

Lepidolite is widespread in the upper crust and can be used as a lithium ore. In the present study, in-situ high-temperature Raman and infrared spectroscopic measurements of natural Rb/Cs-free 2M2 lepidolite in pegmatite were conducted up to 700 °C for investigating the thermal response of lepidolite. In addition, single-crystal X-ray diffraction and electron microprobe analyses were also conducted to determine the polytype and composition of the lepidolite sample. The results show that (1) in the temperature range from 25 to 700 °C, the crystal structure of 2M2 lepidolite is not expected to undergo remarkable transformations upon heating and cooling; (2) the stabilities of hydroxyls in high-charge environments are lower than those in low-charge environments at elevated temperatures up to 700 °C. As a result, hydrogen ions in 2M2 lepidolite can transfer from the non-silicate oxygens in high-charge environments to those in low-charge environments during heating; (3) the transfers of the hydrogen ions between non-silicate oxygens in high-charge and low-charge environments may lead to the dehydration of lepidolite. Thus, lepidolites in subduction zones at temperatures below 700 °C can be sufficient to trigger partial melting and result in the release of lithium in subducted oceanic and continental slabs during subduction and exhumation.

Atherosclerosis (AS) is an inflammatory vascular disease that constitutes a major underlying cause of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and stroke. Infection is a contributing risk factor for AS. Epidemiological evidence has implicated individuals afflicted by periodontitis displaying an increased susceptibility to AS and CVD. This review concisely outlines several prevalent periodontal pathogens identified within atherosclerotic plaques, including Porphyromonas gingivalis, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, and Fusobacterium nucleatum. We review the existing epidemiological evidence elucidating the association between these pathogens and AS-related diseases, and the diverse mechanisms for which these pathogens may engage in AS, such as endothelial barrier disruption, immune system activation, facilitation of monocyte adhesion and aggregation, and promotion of foam cell formation, all of which contribute to the progression and destabilization of atherosclerotic plaques. Notably, the intricate interplay among bacteria underscores the complex impact of periodontitis on AS. In conclusion, advancing our understanding of the relationship between periodontal pathogens and AS will undoubtedly offer invaluable insights and potential therapeutic avenues for the prevention and management of AS.

Joint communication and localization is an attractive technique to simultaneously provide data transmission and localization services, and efficient resource allocation could bring a high data rate and high localization accuracy in limited resources, which is significant for multi-user conditions. In this paper, we concentrate on the joint multiple resource allocation to achieve a trade-off between the performance of the communication and localization process in the millimeter multi-user Multiple Input Multiple Output(MU-MIMO) system. We first develop a robust beam scheduling and user grouping approach using the mutual angle information and channel correlation coefficient to reduce the multi-user interference. Then, we formulate a multi-domain resource allocation problem, where the joint impact of beamforming, bandwidth reservation, and power control is considered. Furthermore, an efficient algorithm is proposed to iteratively perform the sub-carrier and power allocation until satisfying the data rate and localization error-bound constraints after decomposing the large-scale problem into two small-scale sub-problems by the difference of the convex function algorithm. Numerical results show that the proposed algorithm achieves a good trade-off between data rate and localization error and has better performance than other previously proposed algorithms in the literature.

ObjectiveSleep disturbance is a common problem in the general population. Sleep deprivation or dysfunction can have profound health consequences. However, how sleep duration is associated with thyroid function remains unclear. This study was thus developed to examine the association between sleep duration and thyroid function in the US adult population.MethodsA total of 8102 participants from the NHANES 2007-2012 dataset were included in this study. Weighted data analyses were conducted, and the link between sleep duration and thyroid function was probed using linear regression models with smoothed curve fitting. Stratified analyses were also performed.ResultsWeighted mean (standard deviation) values for study variables were as follows: sleep duration 6.85 (0.02) hours, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) 1.86 (0.03) mIU/ml, serum free T3 3.20 (0. 01) pg/mL, serum free T4 0.80 (0.01) ng/dL, serum total T3 115.12 (0.64) ng/dL, serum total T4 7.81 (0.04) ug/dL, TPOAb 16.20 (1.53) IU/mL, TgAb 5.75 (0.73) IU/mL, and Tg 15.11 (0.46) ng/mL. In unadjusted analyses, increased sleep duration was associated with higher serum TSH levels and decreased FT3 levels. After adjustment for potential confounders, a significant negative relationship was detected between sleep duration and FT3 levels in participants with ≤7 hours of sleep. When sleep duration exceeded 7 hours, no significant changes in FT3 levels were observed after further increases in sleep duration.ConclusionIncreased sleep duration was related to decreased FT3 levels, primarily at short sleep durations, and this correlation was no longer evident when participants reached the recommended healthy sleep duration.

In this paper, flexural performance of reactive powder concrete (RPC) beams reinforced with hybrid glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) and steel bars was investigated by finite element (FE) analysis, and predicted formulae of flexural capacity was proposed. First, based on the corresponding tests, the FE models of reinforced RPC beams were built, and the applicability of FE method with RPC material was verified. After that, the FE models of RPC beams reinforced with hybrid GFRP and steel bars was designed, and the flexural performance of such beams was investigated. The influence of GFRP bar ratio, steel bar ratio, and resultant force of hybrid reinforcements on the vertical load – deflection curves were observed. Finally, the formulae of the flexural capacity of the normal section of RPC beams reinforced with hybrid GFRP and steel bars was derived. By comparing the results of proposed formulae and FE analysis, it was found that they were in good agreement. Therefore, the proposed formulae can be used to predict the flexural capacity of such RPC beams with hybrid reinforcements.

Abstract Background The safety and efficacy of indocyanine green (ICG) imaging navigational laparoscopic gastrectomy remain controversial. This study is to evaluate the short-term and long-term outcomes of ICG-guided laparoscopic radial gastrectomy in patients with gastric cancer. Methods Consecutive patients with definitive diagnosis of gastric cancer that underwent laparoscopic radical gastrectomy were collected retrospectively. Propensity score matching (PSM) at 1:1 ratio was performed to compare the outcomes of two groups. Results A total of 122 qualified patients were divided into ICG group (n = 34) and non-ICG group (n = 88). PSM yielded 28 patients with comparable baseline characteristics into each group. The number of retrieved lymph node in ICG group was significantly higher than that in non-ICG group (P = 0.0196). There was no statistical difference of perioperative, short-term, and long-term complications between the two groups. Conclusion ICG-guided laparoscopic radical gastrectomy is safe and effective, and ICG-navigated lymphadenectomy improves the number of retrieved lymph nodes for patients with gastric cancer.

Abstract Gastric cancer is one of the most common malignancies worldwide and vasculogenic mimicry (VM) is considered to be the leading cause for the failure of anti-angiogenesis therapy in advanced gastric cancer patients. In the present study, we investigate the role of tenascin-c (TNC) in the formation of VM in gastric cancer and found that TNC was upregulated in gastric cancer tissue than in the corresponding adjacent tissues and correlated with VM and poor prognosis of gastric cancer. Furthermore, knockdown of TNC significantly inhibited VM formation and proliferation of gastric cancer cells in vitro and in vivo, with a reduction in cell migration and invasion. Mechanistically, TNC knockdown suppressed the phosphorylation of ERK and subsequently inhibited the process of EMT, both of which play an important role in VM formation. Our results indicated that TNC plays an important role in VM formation in gastric cancer. Combining inhibition of TNC and ERK may be a potential therapeutic approach to inhibit gastric cancer growth and metastasis and decrease antiangiogenic therapeutic resistance.

Shielding materials are crucial in protecting devices against electromagnetic radiation but are often heavyweight and operate in narrow frequency ranges. Here, highly conductive, lightweight, ultrathin, and flexible membranes based on Ag-WO3-coated polymeric nanofibers provide multispectral shielding from microwaves to X-rays.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection caused the pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Gastrointestinal (GI) involvement is common among patients with COVID-19, and GI symptoms can appear earlier than respiratory symptoms. Except for direct infectious effects, patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 are at risk of complications requiring gastroenterological management. Diarrhea is the most common GI symptom in patients with COVID-19 and occurs in up to half of them. Other GI symptoms, such as anorexia, discomfort, nausea, abdominal pain, loss of taste sensation, and vomiting, have been reported. GI symptoms are associated with a poor prognosis. Fecal viral excretion may have clinical significance because of the possible fecal–oral transmission of infection. In the present narrative review article, six different aspects of studies published to date are summarized as follows: GI manifestations of COVID-19, the roles of fecal–oral transmission, poor prognosis of GI symptoms; abnormal abdominal imaging findings, COVID-19 in patients with irritable bowel disease, and prevention and control of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the digestive endoscopy room. Timely understanding of the association between COVID-19 and the digestive system and effective preventive measures are critical to improve this disease and help clinicians take appropriate measures to mitigate further transmission.

Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs) are a group of heterogeneous tumors originated from progenitor cells. As these tumors are predominantly non-functional, most of them display asymptomatic characteristics, making it difficult to be realized from early onset. Therefore, patients with pNETs are usually diagnosed with metastatic disease or at a late disease stage. The relatively low incidence also limits our understanding of the biological background of pNETs, which largely impair the development of new effective drugs. The fact that up to 10% of pNETs develop in patients with genetic syndromes have promoted researchers to focus on the gene mutations and driver mutations in MEN1, DAXX/ATRX and mTOR signaling pathway genes have been implicated in disease development and progression. Recent advances in sequencing technologies have further enriched our knowledge of the complex molecular landscape of pNETs, pointing out crucial roles of genes in DNA damage pathways, chromosomal and telomere alterations and epigenetic dysregulation. These novel findings may not only benefit early diagnosis of pNETs, but also help to uncover tumor heterogeneity and shape the future of translational medical treatment. In this review, we focus on the current molecular biology of pNETs and decipher how these findings may translate into future development of targeted therapy.