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ABSTRACT Background Gastric adenocarcinoma of the fundic gland type (GA‐FG) is a newly described variant of gastric adenocarcinoma with lack of knowledges regarding its genetic features. Methods We performed whole‐genome sequencing (WGS) in formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) tumor tissues and matched adjacent noncancerous specimens from 21 patients with GA‐FG, and integrated published datasets from 1105 patients with traditional gastric adenocarcinoma with the purpose of dissecting genetic determinants both common to conventional gastric adenocarcinoma and unique to GA‐FG disease. Results We characterized the genomic architecture of GA‐FG disease, revealing the predominant proportion of C > T substitution among the six types of SNVs. GNAS was the most significantly mutated driver gene (14.29%). 42.8% of samples harbored “Kataegis.” Distinct genomic alterations between GA‐FG and conventional gastric cancer were identified. Specifically, low mutational burden and relatively moderate mutational frequencies of significantly mutated driver genes, coupled with the absence of non‐silent alterations of formerly well‐known drivers such as TP53, PIK3CA and KRAS were identified in GA‐FG patients. Oncogenic signaling pathway analysis revealed mutational processes associated with focal adhesions and proteoglycans in cancer, highlighting both common and specific procedures during the development of GA‐FG and conventional gastric cancer. Conclusion Our study is the first to comprehensively depict the genomic landscape highlighting the multidimensional perturbations in GA‐FG patients. These discoveries offered mechanistic insights for novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for patients with such disease.

Objective·To explore the pathogenic gene and the mutation type of a family with X-linked spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia tarda (SEDT).Methods·Genomic DNA was extracted from the peripheral blood of 6 members of a SEDT family. Clearseq hereditary disease kit was applied to target pathogenic regions related to the rare hereditary diseases in the genomic sample of the proband, and then high-throughput sequencing and deletion of high-frequency variants were preformed. Copy number variant (CNV) was analyzed by using exome-hidden Markov model (XHMM). Real-time quantitative PCR was performed to further analyze the copy numbers of the gene deletion fragment in the 6 family members.Results·High-throughput sequencing results showed that 2.5 kb fragment deletion existed in the chromosome X (chrX: 13 732 385‒13 734 927) of the proband, which covered exon 4‒6 of the transport protein particle complex subunit 2 (TRAPPC2) gene. The quantitative PCR results confirmed the proband and his male cousin carried the deficiency. The proband′s mother had a heterozygous deficiency, and the proband′s father, sister and the uncle with normal phenotypes all had normal copy numbers.Conclusion·The fragment deletion of exon 4‒6 of TRAPPC2 gene is the pathogenic mutation of SEDT, and the XHMM algorithm in high-throughput sequencing analysis can detect the deletion of multiple exons in pathogenic genes.

Objective Bowel perforation is a major, yet unstudied complication of ultrasound-guided hydrostatic enema reduction (UGHR). In this study, we aimed to explore the risk factors and determine the clinical characteristics of bowel perforation during UGHR for paediatric intussusception (P-UGHR).Methods We retrospectively analysed the medical records of patients who underwent UGHR for intussusception at our institution between January 2011 and December 2021. The patients were divided into the P-UGHR and no P-UGHR groups. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to analyse the risk factors for P-UGHR, and the clinical characteristics of patients with P-UGHR were determined.Results The final analysis included 4961 intussusception episodes. We identified 15 patients [eight male (53.3%); median age, 8.73 months; age range, 3–17 months] with P-UGHR. All P-UGHR cases involved colonic perforations without necrosis distal to the intussusception mass. The perforations were located in the ascending [40% (6/15)], transverse [46.7% (7/15)] or descending colon [13.3% (2/15)]. Age ≤10.5 months [odds ratio (OR), 3.636; 90% confidence interval (CI), 1.274–10.38; P = 0.043], bloody stools (OR, 4.189; 90% CI, 1.352–12.978; P = 0.037) and symptom duration >17.5 h (OR, 0.188; 90% CI, 0.053–0.666; P = 0.03) were independent risk factors for P-UGHR.Conclusion Age ≤10.5 months, bloody stools and symptom duration >17.5 h were independent risk factors for P-UGHR. Caution should be exercised during UGHR in patients aged ≤10.5 months, with bloody stools or symptom duration >17.5 h.

Abstract Background Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is an autoimmune condition that causes harm to exocrine glands and also has extra-glandular manifestations (EGM). pSS patients with EGM have a worse prognosis than those with only sicca symptoms. Previous studies have shown that the minor salivary glands (MSG) of pSS patients exhibit a unique profile of cytokines and chemokines compared to healthy controls. However, there is a lack of research comparing pSS with EGM (pSS-EGM) and pSS without EGM (pSS-non-EGM). This study aims to explore potential biomarkers associated with pSS, particularly pSS with EGM. Methods By utilizing RNA sequencing, we conducted an analysis on the gene expression profiles of MSG in 63 patients diagnosed with pSS, as well as 12 non-pSS individuals. Furthermore, we also investigated the MSG of pSS patients, both with and without EGM. Through bioinformatics analysis, we identified genes with differential expression (DEGs) and determined the core hub genes using PPI network. We then analyzed the top 20 DEGs and their correlation with the patients' clinical characteristics, and validated our findings using peripheral blood plasma. Results A total of 725 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in the comparison between pSS and non-pSS groups, and 727 DEGs were observed between pSS-EGM and pSS-non-EGM. It is noteworthy that the expression levels of CXCL9 were higher in both pSS patients and pSS-EGM when compared to the control group. Taking into consideration the significance of the top 20 DEGs in relation to clinical parameters and the central hub genes, we ultimately chose CXCL9. In comparison to the non-pSS group, pSS patients exhibited notably greater expression of the CXCL9 gene in the MSG, as well as higher levels of CXCL9 protein in their plasma (p

ABSTRACTHelicobacter pylori is a highly successful pathogen that poses a substantial threat to human health. However, the dynamic interaction between H. pylori and the human gastric epithelium has not been fully investigated. In this study, using dual RNA sequencing technology, we characterized a cytotoxin-associated gene A (cagA)-modulated bacterial adaption strategy by enhancing the expression of ATP-binding cassette transporter-related genes, metQ and HP_0888, upon coculturing with human gastric epithelial cells. We observed a general repression of electron transport-associated genes by cagA, leading to the activation of oxidative phosphorylation. Temporal profiling of host mRNA signatures revealed the downregulation of multiple splicing regulators due to bacterial infection, resulting in aberrant pre-mRNA splicing of functional genes involved in the cell cycle process in response to H. pylori infection. Moreover, we demonstrated a protective effect of gastric H. pylori colonization against chronic dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis. Mechanistically, we identified a cluster of propionic and butyric acid-producing bacteria, Muribaculaceae, selectively enriched in the colons of H. pylori-pre-colonized mice, which may contribute to the restoration of intestinal barrier function damaged by DSS treatment. Collectively, this study presents the first dual-transcriptome analysis of H. pylori during its dynamic interaction with gastric epithelial cells and provides new insights into strategies through which H. pylori promotes infection and pathogenesis in the human gastric epithelium.IMPORTANCESimultaneous profiling of the dynamic interaction between Helicobacter pylori and the human gastric epithelium represents a novel strategy for identifying regulatory responses that drive pathogenesis. This study presents the first dual-transcriptome analysis of H. pylori when cocultured with gastric epithelial cells, revealing a bacterial adaptation strategy and a general repression of electron transportation-associated genes, both of which were modulated by cytotoxin-associated gene A (cagA). Temporal profiling of host mRNA signatures dissected the aberrant pre-mRNA splicing of functional genes involved in the cell cycle process in response to H. pylori infection. We demonstrated a protective effect of gastric H. pylori colonization against chronic DSS-induced colitis through both in vitro and in vivo experiments. These findings significantly enhance our understanding of how H. pylori promotes infection and pathogenesis in the human gastric epithelium and provide evidence to identify targets for antimicrobial therapies.

Background: Anorectal malformations (ARMs) are among the most common congenital digestive tract malformations worldwide. Although there have been extensive efforts for elucidating their pathogenesis, the specific molecular mechanisms underlying ARMs remain unclear. Methods: We generated ARM Wistar rat models using ethylenethiourea. Nine pregnant rats were allocated to the ARM and control groups, respectively. Hindgut tissue was isolated from embryos collected on gestational days 14, 15, and 16, representing the key timepoints of anorectal development. High-throughput sequencing was used to identify differentially expressed genes. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were performed on the obtained genes. Module analysis was performed via Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING), and a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using Cytoscape software. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was conducted to verify the enrichment of development/apoptosis/epithelium/morphogenesis/Wnt pathway-related core gene sets and identify ARM hub genes. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay was employed to verify mRNA levels of hub genes. Results: 313 GSEA core genes form ten core gene sets were selected. Based on the 281 differentially expressed circRNAs (|Fc| > 2, FDR < 0.05), 42 PPI core genes were obtained. According to the integration of GSEA analysis and PPI network, three hub genes (Cul1, Gli3, and Osr2) highly associated with ETU-induced ARMs were identified. The qRT-PCR validation data were consistent with the sequencing results. Conclusions: These results provide a theoretical basis for the further identification of potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets in ARMs.

A finite time controller with PD-like structure for satellite attitude control is proposed in this paper. The controller is constructed with simple structure based on standard PD controller. The fractional order term is designed hence system could both have strong robustness and finite time convergence rate, and the advantage of finite time control and PD control is combined in this paper. System convergence rate is discussed by Lyapunov method, and the constraint on control parameters is given by implementing the coupled term of angular velocity and attitude quaternion. Moreover, the accuracy at steady stage depending on control parameters is given hence system could converge to this field within finite time. System stability and performance is demonstrated by numerical simulation results.

Background & Aims: The steatotic grafts have been applied in liver transplantation frequently owing to the high incidence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. However, fatty livers are vulnerable to graft injury. Myeloid-derived suppressor cell (MDSC) recruitment during liver graft injury promotes tumour recurrence. Lipid metabolism exerts the immunological influence on MDSCs in tumour progression. Here, we aimed to explore the role and mechanism of inflammasome activation in MDSCs induced by lipid metabolism during fatty liver graft injury and the subsequent effects on tumour recurrence. Methods: MDSC populations and nucleotide-binding oligomerisation domain-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome levels were investigated in a clinical cohort and a rat liver transplantation model. The mechanism of NLRP3 activation by specific fatty acids was explored in mouse hepatic ischaemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) with tumour recurrence model and in vitro studies. Results: MDSC populations and NLRP3 levels were increased with higher tumour recurrent rate in patients using steatotic grafts. NLRP3 was upregulated in MDSCs with lipid accumulation post mouse fatty liver IRI. Mechanistically, arachidonic acid was discovered to activate NLRP3 inflammasome in MDSCs through fatty acid transport protein 2 (FATP2), which was identified by screening lipid uptake receptors. The mitochondrial dysfunction with enhanced reactive oxygen species bridged arachidonic acid uptake and NLRP3 activation in MDSCs, which subsequently stimulated CD4+ T cells producing more IL-17 in fatty liver IRI. Blockade of FATP2 inhibited NLRP3 activation in MDSCs, IL-17 production in CD4+ T cells, and the tumour recurrence post fatty liver IRI. Conclusions: During fatty liver graft injury, arachidonic acid activated NLRP3 inflammasome in MDSCs through FATP2, which subsequently stimulated CD4+ T cells producing IL-17 to promote tumour recurrence post transplantation. Impact and implications: The high incidence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease resulted in the frequent application of steatotic donors in liver transplantation. Our data showed that the patients who underwent liver transplantation using fatty grafts experienced higher tumour recurrence. We found that arachidonic acid activated NLRP3 inflammasome in MDSCs through FATP2 during fatty liver graft injury, which led to more IL-17 secretion of CD4+ T cells and promoted tumour recurrence post transplantation. The inflammasome activation by aberrant fatty acid metabolism in MDSCs bridged the acute-phase fatty liver graft injury and liver tumour recurrence.

In order to improve the recovery rate of open-pit coal mine resources, under the condition of studying the deformation and failure mechanism of the slope, the horizontal mining is carried out and the stope shape is optimized. Taking the Thar coalfield in Pakistan as the research object, the paper firstly analyzes the deformation and failure mechanism of the slope through FLAC3D, clarifies the landslide mode, and then analyzes the tracking distance of the horizontal mining and inner row, and finally provides a reference for the optimization of the coal mine. The results show that the failure type of the slope belongs to the tension-shear composite type, and the stability of the slope increases as a whole due to the double support effect of the slope working aid and the inner dump. When the tracking distance of the inner row is 50 m to 100 m, the three-dimensional spatial effect of the slope is significant, and the stability is high; as the tracking distance increases, the stability becomes worse and worse.

This study describes a rare case of male granulomatous lobular mastitis (GLM) with recurrence in different sites on the ipsilateral side. A 48-year-old male patient presented with no previous history of breast-related disease, and physical examination suggested a mass in the right breast. Ultrasonography revealed a cyst and infection in the right breast. No obvious abnormality was found in laboratory analysis, and a core needle biopsy revealed GLM. Incision and drainage were applied to the right lesion, and symptoms resolved within a few weeks. At 2 years following this initial presentation, the patient reported that the right breast mass reappeared in different locations after the consumption of alcohol. Relevant examination and a core needle biopsy again suggested GLM of the right breast. The patient declined hormone therapy and was subsequently lost to follow-up. After reviewing this case, the course of the disease in this patient, and the connection between gynecomastia and GLM, along with ipsilateral recurrence, are under investigation.

Abstract Background Karat (Musa troglodytarum L.) is an autotriploid Fe’i banana of the Australimusa section. Karat was domesticated independently in the Pacific region, and karat fruit are characterized by a pink sap, a deep yellow-orange flesh colour, and an abundance of β-carotene. Karat fruit showed non-climacteric behaviour, with an approximately 215-day bunch filling time. These features make karat a valuable genetic resource for studying the mechanisms underlying fruit development and ripening and carotenoid biosynthesis. Results Here, we report the genome of M. troglodytarum, which has a total length of 603 Mb and contains 37,577 predicted protein-coding genes. After divergence from the most recent common ancestors, M. troglodytarum (T genome) has experienced fusion of ancestral chromosomes 8 and 9 and multiple translocations and inversions, unlike the high synteny with few rearrangements found among M. schizocarpa (S genome), M. acuminata (A genome) and M. balbisiana (B genome). Genome microsynteny analysis showed that the triplication of MtSSUIIs due to chromosome rearrangement may lead to the accumulation of carotenoids and ABA in the fruit. The expression of duplicated MtCCD4s is repressed during ripening, leading to the accumulation of α-carotene, β-carotene and phytoene. Due to a long terminal repeat (LTR)-like fragment insertion upstream of MtERF11, karat cannot produce large amounts of ethylene but can produce ABA during ripening. These lead to non-climacteric behaviour and prolonged shelf-life, which contributes to an enrichment of carotenoids and riboflavin. Conclusions The high-quality genome of M. troglodytarum revealed the genomic basis of non-climacteric behaviour and enrichment of carotenoids, riboflavin, flavonoids and free galactose and provides valuable resources for further research on banana domestication and breeding and the improvement of nutritional and bioactive qualities.

With the development of aerial refueling technology, autonomous aerial refueling(AAR) has become an important technology in the future battlefield, which is a promising prospective and challenging topic. Since the relative position between the receiver and the drogue is important to accomplish the AAR task, a neural network-based image recognition method is proposed to acquire the required information. Firstly, a C language-based YOLO network is used as the initial network, which meets the requirements of the on-board VxWorks system and can be run directly on the hardware. Then, considering the physical characterizes of the drogue, a multi-dimensional anchor box is designed and the network structure is optimized to adapt to the multi-dimensional situations. Finally, to address the problem of results shifts, feature maps with various sizes and the optimized loss function are used to optimize the network, where the pyramid structure suggests the design of feature maps. The experimental results indicate that the presented method can recognize the drogue more accurately and quickly.

Low-frequency pressure fluctuations are common in open-jet wind tunnels, affecting test accuracy and posing safety risks to the wind tunnels. These oscillations can be caused by different mechanisms in different wind tunnels, and it is often necessary to identify the specific mechanism responsible for the oscillation and develop appropriate control methods. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the current state of research on low-frequency pressure fluctuations in subsonic open-jet wind tunnels, with a particular emphasis on their generation mechanisms and control strategies. The primary source of excitation is attributed to the edgetone feedback formed by the impingement of the jet on the collector. The sound wavelength corresponding to the edgetone frequency is close to that of the plenum scale, facilitating resonance with both plenum-associated vibration modes and specific-order standing wave modes within the circuit loop, resulting in significant low-frequency pulsations. Passive control methods such as nozzle vortex generators and collector breathing gaps have been extensively employed due to their cost-effectiveness and efficiency. The concluding section highlights some unresolved issues that require further investigation in this field.

ABSTRACTA novel and highly efficient electro-catalytic protocol for the synthesis of cyclic carbonates from epoxides and CO2 using 1-aminopropyl-3-methylimidazolium dicyanamide ([APMIm]DCA) as the supporting electrolyte, graphite as the anode, and Ti/TiO2-CNT-Pt as the cathode has been developed. Based on the cooperative effect between active Ti/TiO2-CNT-Pt cathode and active sites of supporting ionic liquid electrolyte [APMIm]DCA, CO2 and epoxides could be effectively converted into the corresponding cyclic carbonates in high to excellent yields under mild conditions. Moreover, the electro-catalytic system could be easily recovered and reused for six successive cycles without a considerable decrease in catalytic activity. This work provides a sustainable and efficient cooperative strategy for the chemical fixation of carbon dioxide into valuable cyclic carbonates.

A type of Al-MCM-41 supported dual imidazolium ionic liquids nanocomposites have been synthesized and efficiently used as catalysts in the one-pot synthesis of 2,3-dihydroquinazolin-4(1H)-ones. It was shown that the highest efficiency was achieved in the condensation of a range of aldehydes and anthranilamide in the presence of the (2)Al-MCM-41@ILCeCl4(0.5) solid catalyst under mild conditions. Hot filtration test confirmed that the reaction follows a heterogeneous pathway. Moreover, the catalyst was stable, very active, robust, and displayed good recyclability without significant loss of catalytic activity after five consecutive cycles during the process. Green reaction conditions, operational simplicity, feasibility, high to excellent yields, sustainability of the functionalized catalyst are the main highlights of the present protocol.

Adalimumab and secukinumab are commonly used for moderate to severe psoriasis vulgaris (PV). Although distinct individual responses to and impaired effectiveness of these biological agents occur occasionally, little is known about the underlying reasons. Here, we report a proteomic analysis of psoriatic lesions from patients treated with these drugs using data-independent acquisition mass spectrometry (DIA-MS). Thousands of differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) changed over 12 weeks of treatment. Network analysis showed that DEPs could interact and induce transformation in matrix components, metabolic regulation, and immune response. The results of parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) analysis suggested that S100s, STAT1, KRT2, TYMP, SOD2, HSP90AB1, TFRC, and COL5A1 were the most significantly changed proteins in both groups. There was a positive association between the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score and three proteins (TFRC, IMPDH2, KRT2). Our study findings suggest that inhibition of IL-17A and TNF-α can induce changes in multiple molecules in psoriatic lesions and have an overlapping influence on the immune response and process through direct or indirect effects.

Abstract Tumor recurrence is the major obstacle for pushing the envelope of liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. The inflammatory cascades activated by acute liver graft injury promote tumor recurrence. We aimed to explore the role and mechanism of myeloid-derived suppressor cell (MDSC) mobilization induced by liver graft injury on tumor recurrence. By analyzing 331 HCC patients who received liver transplantation, the patients with graft weight ratio (GWR, the weight of liver graft divided by the estimated standard liver weight of recipient)

Abstract Background Intussusception is the most common abdominal emergency in children. The first line treatment of uncomplicated pediatric intussusception is enema reduction. Until now, there have been no multi-center studies comparing the effectiveness and safety of UGHR and FGAR in the treatment of pediatric intussusception. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness and safety of the two most commonly used enema methods of pediatric intussusception: ultrasound-guided hydrostatic reduction (UGHR) and fluoroscopy-guided air reduction (FGAR). Methods From November 1, 2017 to October 31, 2018, we conducted a multi-center, prospective, cohort study. Children diagnosed with intussusception in four large Children’s Medical Centers in China were divided into UGHR and FGAR groups. Stratified analysis and subgroup analysis were used for further comparison. The success and recurrence rates were used to evaluate the effectiveness of enema reduction. The perforation rate was used to evaluate the safety of enema reduction. Results A total of 2124 cases met the inclusion criteria (UGHR group: 1119 cases; FGAR group: 1005 cases). The success and recurrence rates in the UGHR group were higher than in the FGAR group (95.80%, 9.28% vs. 93.13%, 10.65%) (P < 0.05, P > 0.05), respectively. The perforation rate in the UGHR group was 0.36% compared with 0.30% in the FGAR group (P > 0.05). Subgroup analysis showed the success rates in the UGHR group were higher than in the FGAR group of patients with onset time between 12 and 24 h (95.56% vs. 90.57%) (P < 0.05). Of patients aged 4 to 24 months, the success rates in the UGHR group were also higher than in the FGAR group (95.77% vs. 91.60%) (P < 0.05). Stratified analysis showed the success rates in the UGHR group were higher than in the FGAR group in patients with the symptom of bloody stool (91.91% vs 85.38%) (P < 0.05). Conclusions UGHR and FGAR are safe, nonsurgical treatment methods for acute pediatric intussusception. UGHR is superior to FGAR, no radiation risk, its success rate is higher, without a difference in perforation rate, especially for patients aged 4–24 months. Level of evidence Level II.

Catalytic oxidation of organic sulfides is of considerable significance in industrial chemistry and fuel industry. Therefore, numerous methods have been developed for the oxidation. Metal-containing ionic liquid-based catalysts can catalyze the selective oxidation reactions and are highly used in chemical processes, which have also been used as effective solvents, reaction media, extractants, and catalysts for the oxidation of organic sulfides including oxidative desulfurization of fuel oil. Recently, much attention is being drawn to the preparation of heterogenous catalysts based on the immobilization of metal- or nonmetal-containing ILs on diverse solid supports, which can be easily separated after the completion reaction and recycled. Therefore, there is still an increasing interest in developing new and efficient catalytic procedures for the oxidation of organic sulfides. In this review, we have outlined the recent advances in catalytic oxidation of organic sulfides including oxidative desulfurization of fuel oil. The versatilities and adaptabilities of metal–ionic liquid catalytic systems in the selective oxidation of sulfides are considered a powerful research field in these transformations.

The low-frequency pressure pulsations in a large low-speed open jet wind tunnel were studied using a 1:20 scaled model wind tunnel. It was found that plane pressure standing waves existed in all three directions of the wind tunnel’s plenum. It was confirmed that the large pressure pulsations in the transverse direction of the plenum were caused by the resonance of the plane pressure standing waves in that direction with the edgetone feedback (vortex-sound feedback between the nozzle and the collector). The analysis of the standing waves in the vertical direction of the plenum suggested that they might come from self-excited oscillations. For the model wind tunnel with a 1:20 strictly scaled collector, the standing waves in the transverse direction of the plenum were much stronger than those in the other two directions. By increasing the width of the collector, the intensity of the standing waves in the transverse direction was significantly reduced to a level similar to that of the standing waves in the vertical direction. It was also found that the standing waves in the transverse direction were significantly enhanced after a floor was added to the test section.

Compared with manned aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are affordable and convenient for high-risk missions. Therefore, UAVs are increasingly playing an important role in military and civilian fields. Today, UAVs have been exploited to perform special missions carrying some important equipment. However, influenced by the constraints of single UAV's performance and load, it has become a research hotspot that multi-UAVs perform search cooperatively. The process is to minimize the uncertainty of the unknown area and to find the target as much as possible. In terms of cooperation among UAVs, the more effective method based on search map is used. And search process optimization on the basis of distributed model predictive control (DMPC) or traditional swarm intelligence algorithms are adopted, but these methods have some limitations. Due to the behavior of swarm intelligent individual have the characteristics of the decentralization, distribution, and overall self-organization, which match with the requirements of the localization, distribution and robustness of the UAV cooperate search. Nevertheless, the traditional swarm intelligence algorithms have low search efficiency and are easy to fall into local optimum. To solve the problem of repeated search, static targets and low efficiency in cooperative search for multi-UAVs, a method based on improved pigeon-inspired optimization (PIO) and Markov chain was proposed. Firstly, a honeycomb environmental model similar to the sensor detect region was established to reduce repeated search for the area. Secondly, Markov chain with the Gaussian distribution was used to represent dynamic movement of targets. Thirdly, Cauchy mutation and Gaussian mutation were introduced into the map and compass operator and the landmark operator of PIO, respectively. Meanwhile, simulated annealing (SA) mechanism was exploited to reserve the worse individual, which effectively reduced the problem that PIO was easy to fall into local optimum. Finally, the algorithm was compared with other swarm intelligence algorithms through simulation experiments. The results show that the new method is effective and available.

Anorectal malformations (ARMs) are among the most common congenital terminal digestive tract malformations. Circular RNAs (circRNAs), a novel type of endogenous non-coding RNAs, play roles in the development of the digestive system; however, their contributions to the pathogenesis of ARMs are not well-established. In this study, we explored the mechanism underlying ethylenethiourea (ETU)-induced ARMs by profiling circRNA expression via RNA-seq and constructing a regulatory circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network. Nine pregnant rats were gavage-fed a single dose of 125 mg/kg 1% ETU (ARM group) on gestational day 10 (GD10), and another 9 pregnant rats received a similar dose of saline (normal group) as a control. Embryos were obtained by cesarean section on the key time-points of anorectal development (GD14, GD15, and GD16). Hindgut samples isolated from the fetuses were evaluated by high-throughput sequencing and differentially expressed circRNAs were validated by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction, agarose gel electrophoresis, and Sanger cloning and sequencing. A total of 18295 circRNAs were identified in the normal and ARM groups. Based on the 425 differentially expressed circRNAs (|Fc| > 2, p < 0.05), circRNA-miRNA and miRNA-mRNA pairs were predicted using miREAP, miRanda, and TargetScan. A total of 55 circRNAs (14 up- and 41 downregulated in the ARM group compared to the normal group) were predicted to bind to 195 miRNAs and 947 mRNAs. Competing endogenous RNA networks and a Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis revealed that novel_circ_001042 had the greatest connectivity and was closely related to ARM-associated signaling pathways, such as the Wingless Type MMTV integration site family, mitogen-activated protein kinase, and transforming growth factor-β pathways. These results provide original insight into the roles of circRNAs in ARMs and provide a valuable resource for further analyses of molecular mechanisms and signaling networks.

Summary: Endothelial and fibroblast niches are crucial for epithelial organs. How these heterotypic cells interact is of great interest. In this study, we reveal an axis of signaling in which fibroblasts relay Wnt signals from the endothelial niche to organize epithelial patterning. We generate an Axin2-membrane GFP (mGFP) reporter mouse and observe robust Wnt/β-catenin signaling activities in fibroblasts surrounding the mammary epithelium. To enable cell-type-specific gene manipulation in vitro, we establish an organoid system via coculture of endothelial cells (ECs), fibroblasts, and mammary epithelial cells. Deletion of β-catenin in fibroblasts impedes epithelium branching, and ECs are responsible for the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in fibroblasts. In vivo, EC deletion of Wntless inhibits Wnt/β-catenin signaling activity in fibroblasts, rendering a reduction in epithelial branches. These findings highlight the significance of the endothelial niche in tissue patterning, shedding light on the interactive mechanisms in which distinct niche components orchestrate epithelial organogenesis and tissue homeostasis.

Anorectal malformations (ARMs) is one of the most common gastrointestinal anomalies. Previous research revealed that miR-92a-2-5p was upregulated in ARMs. However, the underlying roles remains unknown. The current study was to further investigate the spatiotemporal expression patterns of miR-92a-2-5p and its target gene protein kinase C alpha (PRKCA) predicted by bioinformatic method, and to explore their potential functions in anorectal malformations (ARMs). Rat models with ethylenethiourea-induced ARMs were made for subsequent experiments. Direct target relationship between miR-92a-2-5p and PRKCA was validated using a luciferase reporter assay. The spatiotemporal expression pattern of miR-92a-2-5p was evaluated using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), while the expression of PRKCA was revealed by immunohistochemical staining and western blotting. IEC-6 cells were transfected with mimics/mimics NC (Negative control)/inhibitor/inhibitor NC of miR-92a-2-5p or si-PRKCA/si-PRKCA NC, respectively. Then the downstream molecules of miR-92a-2-5p, PRKCA and β-catenin, were subsequently detected. Meanwhile, apoptosis and viability assays were measured. Dual luciferase assay confirmed the direct regulatory relationship between miR-92a-2-5p and PRKCA. FISH revealed that miR-92a-2-5p was expressed with a higher level in ARMs fetuses. Further analyses of PRKCA showed lower protein expression level in ARMs group, which was opposite to miR-92a-2-5p. In vitro experiments revealed that overexpression of miR-92a-2-5p or knockdown of PRKCA can down-regulate PRKCA, up-regulate and facilitate nuclear localization of β-catenin, increase apoptosis and decrease proliferation of IEC-6. Taken together, these findings suggest that aberrantly high expression of miR-92a-2-5p potentially contribute to ARMs by inhibiting proliferation and enhancing apoptosis of intestinal cells via negatively regulating PRKCA/β-catenin.

CsF-AlF3 based composite fluxes with different Ge contents which are in the form of GeO2 were developed by the method of solution synthesis, and their melting characteristics, phase structures and microstructures were observed and analyzed subsequently. Meanwhile, 2024 aluminum alloy was brazed successfully at 480℃ under the active effect of CsF-AlF3 flux with 4% (mass fraction, the same below) Ge doped. The results show that the liquidus temperature decreases from 477℃ to around 440℃and has the main phase composition of CsAlF4 and Cs2GeF6 when content of Ge exceeds 4%. And the new Cs2GeF6 changes the morphology of CsF-AlF3 flux to more regular polyhedron structure with fewer flocculent agglomerates. On the other hand, the flux with 4% Ge immensely promotes the spreading of Zn-15Al filler metal on the 2024 aluminum alloy at 480℃ and the shear strength of brazing lapping joints reaches 110MPa,with homogeneous structure of the joints,and with no obvious defects observed.

Objective Intussusception is a common paediatric abdominal emergency in infants. The first-line treatment of choice in uncomplicated paediatric intussusception is enema reduction. The study aim was to provide an overview of the current national practice of enema reduction of paediatric intussusception in China. Methods A questionnaire on enema reduction of paediatric intussusception was sent to respondents (members of the Pediatric Anorectal Group, the Neonatal Group, the Society of Pediatric Surgery and the China Medical Association). Results Data from 128 questionnaires were analysed. Of these, 78.1% (100/128) reported the use of fluoroscopy, 17.2% (22/128) use of ultrasound monitoring, 78.9% (101/128) use of air and 17.9% (23/128) use of normal saline. A total of 78.9% (101/128) reported a success rate of 90%, 25.8% (33/128) reported that a paediatric surgeon managed the reduction, 18.8% (24/128) that a radiologist managed the reduction and 44.5% (57/128) that a paediatric surgeon and radiologist jointly managed the reduction. Conclusions There is large variation in the techniques of enema reduction of intussusception in China. Fluoroscopy-guided air enema reduction is mainly used. Enema reduction of uncomplicated cases of paediatric intussusception in China lacks standardization of equipment and personnel involvement.

Tension-shear test was carried out on middle temperature self-brazing aluminum honeycomb cores after high temperature aging by micro mechanical test system, and the microstructure and component of the joints were observed and analyzed using scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy to study the relationship between brazing seam microstructure, component and high temperature aging properties. Results show that the tensile-shear strength of aluminum honeycomb core joints brazed by 1060 aluminum foil and aluminum composite brazing plate after high temperature aging(200℃/12h, 200℃/24h, 200℃/36h) is similar to that of as-welded joints, and the weak part of the joint is the base metal which is near the brazing joint. The observation and analysis of the aluminum honeycomb core microstructure and component show that the component of Zn, Sn at brazing seam is not much affected and no compound phase formed after high temperature aging; therefore, the main reason for good high temperature aging performance of self-brazing aluminum honeycomb core is that no obvious change of brazing seam microstructure and component occurs.

Background: Although mental fatigue was well-recognized as one of the long-term consequences following mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) that required ongoing support, evidences for the optimal management remained inadequate. Aims: To investigate the temporal profile of mental fatigue during the first year after MTBI and examine the impact of perceived social support on the recovery from post-MTBI fatigue. Study Design: Observational case-control study. Methods: This study was conducted among post-MTBI patients admitted to the emergency department in a tertiary-care hospital in Sichuan, China. During four waves of assessments at 1 week, 3, 6 and 12 months, mental fatigue was assessed through Mental Fatigue Scale (MFS) whereas social support was assessed by the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS). Results: There were 65.1%, 37.1%, 34.8% and 32.5% individuals being identified as those with mental fatigue at 1 week, 3, 6 and 12 months, respectively. The scores of MFS didn’t change substantially since 3 months post-injury. Compared to non-fatigued MTBI patients, those with long-lasting post- MTBI fatigue reported extremely lower level of perceived social support. Moreover, improved social support at 1 week was negatively associated with the occurrence of long-lasting fatigue. Conclusion: Sufficient social support could significantly decrease the occurrence of long-lasting mental fatigue among MTBI cases. It seemed of great importance to modify the emphasis of rehabilitation to include assessment and improvement of perceived social support at earlier stages after injury.

In Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS) substation, the spacer used for supporting conductor, isolating air chamber and insulation is a very important insulation component in GIS pipe, and it is important to study the spacer to ensure the insulation performance and quality of GIS. Local distortion of electric field distribution will be produced when electromagnetic wave propagates to spacers. In this article, the static capacitance calculated by electromagnetic simulation is used to model spacers.

Purpose This study was performed to investigate the expression pattern of Wnt inhibitory factor 1 (Wif1) and β-catenin during anorectal development in normal and anorectal malformation (ARM) embryos and the possible role of Wif1 and β-catenin in the pathogenesis of ARM. Methods ARM was induced with ethylenethiourea on the 10th gestational day in rat embryos. Cesarean deliveries were performed to harvest the embryos. The expression pattern of Wif1 and β-catenin protein and mRNA was evaluated in normal rat embryos (n = 288) and ARM rat embryos (n = 306) from GD13 to GD16 using immunohistochemical staining, Western blot, and real time RT-PCR. Results Immunohistochemical staining revealed that in normal embryos Wif1 was constantly expressed in the cloaca from GD13 to GD16. On GD13 and GD14, Wif1-immunopositive cells were extensively expressed in the cloaca. On GD15, the expression of Wif1 were mainly detected on the very thin anal membrane. In ARM embryos, the epithelium of the hindgut and urorectal septum demonstrated faint immunostaining for Wif1 from GD14 to GD16. Western blot and real time RT-PCR revealed that Wif1 and β-catenin protein and mRNA expression level was significantly decreased in the ARM groups compared with the normal group on GD14 and GD15 (p

Ferroptosis is a process driven by accumulated iron-dependent lipid ROS that leads to cell death, which is a distinct regulated cell death comparing to other cell death. The lethal metabolic imbalance resulted from GSH depletion or inactivation of glutathione peroxidase 4 is the executor of ferroptosis within the cancer cell. Small molecules-induced ferroptosis has a strong inhibition of tumor growth and enhances the sensitivity of chemotherapeutic drugs, especially in the condition of drug resistance. These evidences have highlighted the importance of ferroptosis in cancer therapeutics, but the roles of ferroptosis in tumorigenesis and development remain unclear. This article provides an overview of the mechanisms of ferroptosis, highlights the role of ferroptosis in cancer and discusses strategies for therapeutic modulation.

BackgroundAlthough several risk factors for acute kidney injury (AKI) have been identified, early detection of AKI in acute decompensated heart failure patients remains a challenge. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a risk score for early prediction of AKI in acute decompensated heart failure patients. Methods and ResultsA total of 676 consecutive acute decompensated heart failure participants were prospectively enrolled from 6 regional central hospitals. Data from 507 participants were analyzed. Participants from 4 of the 6 hospitals (n=321) were used to develop a risk score and conduct internal validation. External validation of the developed risk score was conducted in participants from the other 2 hospitals (n=186). Sequential logistic regression was used to develop and validate the risk score. The c statistic and calibration plot were used to assess the discrimination and calibration of the proposed risk score. The overall occurrence of AKI was 33.1% (168/507). The risk score, ranging from 0 to 55, demonstrated good discriminative power with an optimism‐corrected c statistic of 0.859. Similar results were obtained from external validation with c statistic of 0.847 (95% CI 0.819‐0.927). The risk score had good calibration with no apparent over‐ or under‐prediction observed from calibration plots. ConclusionsThe novel risk score is a simple and accurate tool that can help clinicians assess the risk of AKI in acute decompensated heart failure patients, which in turn helps them plan and initiate the most appropriate disease management for patients in time.

Background. The objectives of this study were to determine the spatiotemporal distribution of human caudal-type homeobox proteins CDX1, CDX2 and CDX4 during development of the hindgut and anorectum in the embryo and to explore the possible roles of CDX genes during morphogenesis of the hindgut and anorectum. Methods. Embryos (89) were cut into sections serially and sagittally. From gestation weeks 4–9, CDX1, CDX2 and CDX4 proteins were detected on the caudal midline by immunohistochemical staining. Results. During week 4, extensive immunoreactivity of CDX1, CDX2 and CDX4 was detected in the dorsal urorectal septum, urogenital sinus and hindgut. From weeks 5–7, CDX1-, CDX2- and CDX4- positive cells were detected mainly in the mesenchyme of the urorectal septum and hindgut. The levels of CDX2 and CDX4 immunoreactivity were lower compared to CDX1. During weeks 8 and 9, the anorectal epithelium stained positive for CDX1 and CDX4, and the anal epithelium was positive for CDX2. Conclusions. The CDX proteins are constantly distributed during development of the hindgut and anorectum and exhibit overlapping distribution patterns in the cloaca/hindgut, suggesting they are important in the morphogenesis of the human hindgut and anorectum. CDX genes might be involved in development of the anorectal epithelium after the rectum has separated from the urorectal septum.

Due to its tunability of conductivity, graphene can be considered as a novel epsilon-near-zero (ENZ) material. Based on this property, we propose a wave splitter using graphene. Simulation results show that the circular surface plasmon polariton waves excited by a point source can be transferred to narrow beams through a graphene-based wave splitter, which is formed by a polygonal contour of the ENZ graphene layer. The number of beams can be easily controlled by adjusting the shape of the polygonal ENZ graphene layer, and the operation frequency can also be chosen.

Vegetation is an important part of ecosystem and estimation of fractional vegetation cover is of significant meaning to monitoring of vegetation growth in a certain region. With Landsat TM images and HJ-1B images as data source, an improved selective endmember linear spectral mixture model (SELSMM) was put forward in this research to estimate the fractional vegetation cover in Huangfuchuan watershed in China. We compared the result with the vegetation coverage estimated with linear spectral mixture model (LSMM) and conducted accuracy test on the two results with field survey data to study the effectiveness of different models in estimation of vegetation coverage. Results indicated that: (1) the RMSE of the estimation result of SELSMM based on TM images is the lowest, which is 0.044. The RMSEs of the estimation results of LSMM based on TM images, SELSMM based on HJ-1B images and LSMM based on HJ-1B images are respectively 0.052, 0.077 and 0.082, which are all higher than that of SELSMM based on TM images; (2) the R2 of SELSMM based on TM images, LSMM based on TM images, SELSMM based on HJ-1B images and LSMM based on HJ-1B images are respectively 0.668, 0.531, 0.342 and 0.336. Among these models, SELSMM based on TM images has the highest estimation accuracy and also the highest correlation with measured vegetation coverage. Of the two methods tested, SELSMM is superior to LSMM in estimation of vegetation coverage and it is also better at unmixing mixed pixels of TM images than pixels of HJ-1B images. So, the SELSMM based on TM images is comparatively accurate and reliable in the research of regional fractional vegetation cover estimation.

This paper studies on the refueling boom aerodynamic characteristics and proposes an elastic suppression method for the refueling boom with the property of large length-diameter ratio. In order to obtain the accurate frequency response, modal analysis for the refueling boom is conducted based on ANSYS MODAL. Then the dynamics and kinematic equations of the elastic refueling boom are deduced, which contain the frequency parameter. To complete the equations, the aerodynamic performance is solved in ANSYS FLUENT. In addition, based on the mixed H2 / H∞ theory, an optimal PID controller is proposed to suppress the elastic deformation. Furthermore, the parameters of the PID controller are optimized with the differential evolution algorithm. Simulation shows that the different elastic mode has different effect on the control of the refueling boom. The elastic deformation is suppressed obviously for each mode.

The use of machine vision to track the receiver aircraft’s receptacle is one of the key steps in automated aerial refueling. Traditional Meanshift tracking algorithm’s kernel bandwidth is fixed, when the target size changes, it will produce with the bias even with the loss of the situation. Aiming at this problem, this paper proposes a kernel bandwidth adaptive algorithm based on corner matching. First, use backward tracking method to amend the core window center. Then according to the Harris algorithm to detect the corner, use small-scale approach for the two points between frames to match and regression analysis, namely determine the update parameters of nuclear window width. Experiments show that the algorithm can track the target accurately when the size of tracking target change, and the kernel window width can be better suited to the target size.

BACKGROUND: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is highly malignant and metastatic. Currently, there is no effective chemotherapy for patients with advanced HCC leading to an urgent need to seek for novel therapeutic options. We aimed to investigate the effect of a garlic derivative, S-allylcysteine (SAC), on the proliferation and metastasis of HCC. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: A series of in vitro experiments including MTT, colony-forming, wound-healing, invasion, apoptosis and cell cycle assays were performed to examine the anti-proliferative and anti-metastatic effects of SAC on a metastatic HCC cell line MHCC97L. The therapeutic values of SAC single and combined with cisplatin treatments were examined in an in vivo orthotopic xenograft liver tumor model. The result showed that the proliferation rate and colony-forming abilities of MHCC97L cells were suppressed by SAC together with significant suppression of the expressions of proliferation markers, Ki-67 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Moreover, SAC hindered the migration and invasion of MHCC97L cells corresponding with up-regulation of E-cadherin and down-regulation of VEGF. Furthermore, SAC significantly induced apoptosis and necrosis of MHCC97L cells through suppressing Bcl-xL and Bcl-2 as well as activating caspase-3 and caspase-9. In addition, SAC could significantly induce the S phase arrest of MHCC97L cells together with down-regulation of cdc25c, cdc2 and cyclin B1. In vivo xenograft liver tumor model demonstrated that SAC single or combined with cisplatin treatment inhibited the progression and metastasis of HCC tumor. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE: Our data demonstrate the anti-proliferative and anti-metastatic effects of SAC on HCC cells and suggest that SAC may be a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of HCC patients.

BACKGROUND: Surgical procedures such as liver resection and liver transplantation are the first-line treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. However, the high incidence of tumor recurrence and metastasis after liver surgery remains a major problem. Recent studies have shown that hepatic ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury and endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) contribute to tumor growth and metastasis. We aim to investigate the mechanism of FTY720, which was originally applied as an immunomodulator, on suppression of liver tumor metastasis after liver resection and partial hepatic I/R injury. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: An orthotopic liver tumor model in Buffalo rat was established using the hepatocellular carcinoma cell line McA-RH7777. Two weeks after orthotopic liver tumor implantation, the rats underwent liver resection for tumor-bearing lobe and partial hepatic I/R injury. FTY720 (2 mg/kg) was administered through the inferior caval vein before and after I/R injury. Blood samples were taken at days 0, 1, 3, 7, 14, 21 and 28 for detection of circulating EPCs (CD133+CD34+). Our results showed that intrahepatic and lung metastases were significantly inhibited together with less tumor angiogenesis by FTY720 treatment. The number of circulating EPCs was also significantly decreased by FTY720 treatment from day 7 to day 28. Hepatic gene expressions of CXCL10, VEGF, CXCR3, CXCR4 induced by hepatic I/R injury were down-regulated in the treatment group. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE: FTY720 suppressed liver tumor metastasis after liver resection marred by hepatic I/R injury in a rat liver tumor model by attenuating hepatic I/R injury and reducing circulating EPCs.

AIMS: We previously demonstrated Proline rich tyrosine kinase 2 (Pyk2) plays important roles in regulating tumor progression, migration and invasion in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study, we aimed to examine the role of proline rich tyrosine kinase 2 (Pyk2) on cisplatin resistance in HCC and to explore its underlying molecular mechanism. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: Stable transfectants either overexpressing or suppressing Pyk2 were established in different HCC cell lines. MTT, colony formation and Annexin-V assays were employed to examine their in vitro responses to cisplatin. Xenograft ectopic and orthotopic nude mice models were generated to investigate the in vivo responses of them to cisplatin treatment. cDNA microarray was performed to identify Pyk2-induced genes which were further validated by quantitative real-time RT-PCR using clinical HCC samples. In vitro functional study demonstrated that Pyk2-overexpressing HCC transfectants exhibited relatively lower cytotoxicity, higher colony-forming ability and lower apoptosis to cisplatin compared with the control transfectants. Moreover, Pyk2 overexpressing HCC transfectants had a higher survival rate under cisplatin treatment by up-regulation of AKT phosphorylation. In vivo xenograft nude mice model demonstrated that Pyk2-overexpressing transfectants developed higher tolerance to cisplatin treatment together with less tumor necrosis and apoptosis. cDNA microarray analysis revealed that there were more than 4,000 genes differentially expressed upon overexpression of Pyk2. Several upregulated genes were found to be involved in drug resistance and invasion in cancers. Among them, the expression profiles of MDR1, GAGE1, STAT1 and MAP7 were significantly associated with the expression of Pyk2 in clinical HCC samples. CONCLUSIONS: Our results may suggest a new evidence of Pyk2 on promoting cisplatin resistance of HCC cells through preventing cell apoptosis, activation of AKT pathway and upregulation of drug resistant genes.

We study the normality of families of holomorphic functions. We prove the following result. Let α(z), ai(z), i=1,2,…,p, be holomorphic functions and F a family of holomorphic functions in a domain D, P(z,w):=(w-a1(z))(w-a2(z))⋯(w-ap(z)), p≥2. If Pw∘f(z) and Pw∘g(z) share α(z) IM for each pair f(z), g(z)∈F and one of the following conditions holds: (1) P(z0,z)-α(z0) has at least two distinct zeros for any z0∈D; (2) there exists z0∈D such that P(z0,z)-α(z0) has only one distinct zero and α(z) is nonconstant. Assume that β0 is the zero of P(z0,z)-α(z0) and that the multiplicities l and k of zeros of f(z)-β0 and α(z)-α(z0) at z0, respectively, satisfy k≠lp, for all f(z)∈F, then F is normal in D. In particular, the result is a kind of generalization of the famous Montel's criterion. At the same time we fill a gap in the proof of Theorem 1.1 in our original paper (Wu et al., 2010).

Abstract Introduction Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder that develops after exposure to a life-threatening traumatic experience. Meta-analyses of the brainstem showed that midsagittal area of the pons was significantly reduced in patients with PTSD, suggesting a potential apoptosis in dorsal raphe nucleus after single-prolonged stress (SPS). The aim of this study is to investigate whether SPS induces apoptosis in dorsal raphe nucleus in PTSD rats, which may be a possible mechanism of reduced volume of pons and density of gray matter. Methods In this study, rats were randomly divided into 1d, 7d and 14d groups after SPS along with the control group. The apoptosis rate was determined using annexin V-FITC/PI double-labeled flow cytometry (FCM). Levels of Cytochrome c (Cyt-C) was examined by Western blotting. Expression of Cyt-C on mitochondria in the dorsal raphe nucleus neuron was determined by enzymohistochemistry under transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The change of thiamine monophosphatase (TMP) levels was assessed by enzymohistochemistry under light microscope and TEM. Morphological changes of the ultrastructure of the dorsal raphe nucleus neuron were determined by TEM. Results Apoptotic morphological alterations were observed in dorsal raphe nucleus neuron for all SPS-stimulate groups of rats. The apoptosis rates were significantly increased in dorsal raphe nucleus neuron of SPS rats, along with increased release of cytochrome c from the mitochondria into the cytoplasm, increased expression of Cyt-C and TMP levels in the cytoplasm, which reached to the peak of increase 7 days of SPS. Conclusions The results indicate that SPS induced Cyt-C released from mitochondria into cytosol and apoptosis in dorsal raphe nucleus neuron of rats. Increased TMP in cytoplasm facilitated the clearance of apoptotic cells. We propose that this presents one of the mechanisms that lead to reduced volume of pons and gray matter associated with PTSD.

A result of Hinchliffe (2003) is extended to transcendental entire function, and an alternative proof is given in this paper. Our main result is as follows: let be an analytic function, a family of analytic functions in a domain , and a transcendental entire function. If and share IM for each pair , and one of the following conditions holds: (1) has at least two distinct zeros for any ; (2) is nonconstant, and there exists such that has only one distinct zero , and suppose that the multiplicities and of zeros of and at , respectively, satisfy , for each , where ; (3) there exists a such that has no zero, and is nonconstant, then is normal in .

ERK1/2 are essential proteins mediating mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling downstream of RAS in pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Our previous study reveals that ARF6 plays a positive regulatory role in ERK1/2 pathway in a feedback loop manner. A significant part of the literature on ARF6 has emphasized its oncogenic effect as an essential downstream molecule of ERK1/2, and no research has been done on the regulation mechanisms of the feedback loop between ARF6 and the ERK1/2 signaling pathway. In the present study, we explore the gene network downstream of ARF6 and find that DUSP6 may be the critical signal molecule in the positive feedback loop between ARF6 and ERK1/2. Specifically, to elucidate the negative correlations between ARF6 and DUSP6 in pancreatic cancer, we examine their expressions in pancreatic cancer tissues by immunohistochemical staining. Then the impact of DUSP6 on the proliferation and apoptosis of PDAC cells are investigated by gain-of-function and loss-of-function approaches. Mechanism explorations uncover that ARF6 suppresses the expression of DUSP6, which is responsible for the dephosphorylation of ERK1/2. Altogether, these results indicate that DUSP6 plays a tumor-suppressive role and acts as an intermediate molecule between ARF6 and ERK1/2 in PDAC cells, thereby forming a positive feedback loop.

Abstract The vertical variations and key drivers of ozone and its precursors, namely NOx and VOCs, in the atmospheric boundary layer, have vital impacts on surface ozone budgets but are poorly understood so far. Using online gradient measurements from a 356 m tower, we obtained continuous vertical profiles of ozone and its precursors, which exhibited strong gradients throughout the day. In the daytime, the vertical gradients of ozone precursors are significantly regulated by reactions with OH radicals. At night, our observations confirmed more intense VOC reactions with NO3 radicals in the residual layer than in the boundary layer. Additionally, we found that residual layer entrainment could contribute to over half of the boundary-layer ozone enhancements in the morning periods. Our results underscore the importance of considering vertical changes of ozone and its precursors in the atmospheric boundary layer when developing future ozone mitigation strategies.

Abstract Background The post COVID-19 health condition of Chinese residents infected with Omicron is not clear after the change of epidemic prevention policies. This study aimed to clarify the epidemiology and associated factors about health status of rehabilitation patients. Methods A quick questionnaire study based on C19-YRSm was conducted in mainland China through internet from May 1, 2023, to May 7, 2023. Chinese native speakers infected with Omicron variant agreed to participate were included. Persisting symptom and living habits were simultaneously inquired. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the associated factors. Results In this study 753 individuals were included. Of whom 57.90% were males, 89.38% did not seek medical service, 99.47% recovered within less than 120 days. Breathlessness (47.68%), cognitive impairment (44.89%), Anxiety/mood changes (33.20%), pain/discomfort (32.94%), fatigue or tiredness not improved by rest (32.27%) and post-exertional malaise (30.01%) were the top reported key symptoms. Less than 10% respondents reported functional limitations. The prevalence of fever was reported greater than that of other symptoms, with dry eyes at 14.87%, appetite change at 14.34%, and hair loss at 12.22%. Middle age (OR: 2.353, 95%CI: 1.171 ~ 4.729), underlying diseases (OR: 2.293, 95%CI: 1.216 ~ 4.324), severe key symptom (OR: 6.168, 95%CI: 1.376 ~ 27.642) and at least one other symptom (OR: 1.847, 95%CI: 1.225 ~ 2.718)during the recovery were the risk factors of poor overall health after infection (current overall health score

Pine Island Glacier (PIG), the largest glacier in the Amundsen Sea Embayment of West Antarctica, has contributed to over a quarter of the observed sea level rise around Antarctica. In recent years, multiple observations have confirmed its continuous retreat, ice flow acceleration and profound surface melt. Understanding these changes is crucial for accurately monitoring ice mass discharge and future Antarctic contributions to sea level rise. Therefore, it is essential to investigate the complex interactions between these variables to comprehend how they collectively affect the overall stability of the intricate PIG system. In this study, we utilized high-resolution remote sensing data and deep learning method to detect and analyze the spatio-temporal variations of surface melt, ice shelf calving, and ice flow velocity of the PIG from 2015 to 2023. We explored the correlations among these factors to understand their long-term impacts on the glacier's stability. Our findings reveal a retreat of 26.3 km and a mass loss of 1001.6 km2 during 2015–2023. Notably, extensive surface melting was observed, particularly in the 2016/2017 and 2019/2020 melting seasons. Satellite data vividly illustrate prolonged and intense melting periods, correlating with a significant retreat in the glacier's terminus position in 2019/2020. Furthermore, the comprehensive analysis of surface melting and the cumulative retreat of the ice shelf from 2017 to 2020 on the PIG shows a temporal relationship with subsequent significant changes in ice flow velocity, ranging from 10.9 to 12.2 m d−1, with an average acceleration rate of 12%. These empirical findings elucidate the intricate relationship among surface melt, ice flow velocity, and consequential glacier dynamics. A profound understanding of these interrelationships holds paramount importance in glacier dynamic changes and modeling, providing invaluable insights into potential glacier responses to global climate change.