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Abstract To improve the heat extraction efficiency from the wellbore fluids to the stratum in the geothermal well, thermal insulation cement, which contains of waste glass powder as a heat-insulating material, is proposed to apply in geothermal well’s middle and upper sections in the paper. Effect of such glass powers on mechanic and thermal property of thermal insulation cement was then investigated. Various tests were carried out to measure compressive strength, thermal conductivity, microstructure porosity etc. parameters of the thermal insulation cement. Results showed that the waste glass powder would enhance its the compressive strength and improve its the thermal insulation performance. Correlation study between contents of the added waste glass powder in geothermal cements and its mechanic and thermal property was conducted. It was found that thermal insulation cement exhibited its optimum performance when the added content of glass powers was 20% in weight. Analysis of the microstructure porosity with SEM found that the pores in thermal insulation cement with added waste glass powders were mostly closed, tiny and even, and therefore contributed to the compressive strength of the thermal insulation cement; such pores would be also beneficial to improving its thermal insulation performance.

Abstract Background In assessing the clinical utility and safety of 3.0 T intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (iMRI) combined with multimodality functional MRI (fMRI) guidance in the resection of functional area gliomas, we conducted a study. Method Among 120 patients with newly diagnosed functional area gliomas who underwent surgical treatment, 60 were included in each group: the integrated group with iMRI and fMRI and the conventional navigation group. Between-group comparisons were made for the extent of resection (EOR), preoperative and postoperative activities of daily living based on the Karnofsky performance status, surgery duration, and postoperative intracranial infection rate. Results Compared to the conventional navigation group, the integrated navigation group with iMRI and fMRI exhibited significant improvements in tumor resection (complete resection rate: 85.0% vs. 60.0%, P = 0.006) and postoperative life self-care ability scores (Karnofsky score) (median ± interquartile range: 90 ± 25 vs. 80 ± 30, P = 0.013). Additionally, although the integrated navigation group with iMRI and fMRI required significantly longer surgeries than the conventional navigation group (mean ± standard deviation: 411.42 ± 126.4 min vs. 295.97 ± 96.48 min, P

Abstract Background Repairation of bone defects remains a major clinical problem. Constructing bone tissue engineering containing growth factors, stem cells, and material scaffolds to repair bone defects has recently become a hot research topic. Nerve growth factor (NGF) can promote osteogenesis of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), but the low survival rate of the BMSCs during transplantation remains an unresolved issue. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effect of BMSCs overexpression of NGF on bone defect by inhibiting pyroptosis. Methods The relationship between the low survival rate and pyroptosis of BMSCs overexpressing NGF in localized inflammation of fractures was explored by detecting pyroptosis protein levels. Then, the NGF+/BMSCs-NSA-Sca bone tissue engineering was constructed by seeding BMSCs overexpressing NGF on the allograft bone scaffold and adding the pyroptosis inhibitor necrosulfonamide(NSA). The femoral condylar defect model in the Sprague–Dawley (SD) rat was studied by micro-CT, histological, WB and PCR analyses in vitro and in vivo to evaluate the regenerative effect of bone repair. Results The pyroptosis that occurs in BMSCs overexpressing NGF is associated with the nerve growth factor receptor (P75NTR) during osteogenic differentiation. Furthermore, NSA can block pyroptosis in BMSCs overexpression NGF. Notably, the analyses using the critical-size femoral condylar defect model indicated that the NGF+/BMSCs-NSA-Sca group inhibited pyroptosis significantly and had higher osteogenesis in defects. Conclusion NGF+/BMSCs-NSA had strong osteogenic properties in repairing bone defects. Moreover, NGF+/BMSCs-NSA-Sca mixture developed in this study opens new horizons for developing novel tissue engineering constructs.

Abstract We investigate the entanglement harvesting phenomenon for static detectors that locally interact with massless scalar fields in the cosmic string spacetime, which, though locally flat, features a conical structure defined by a deficit angle. Specifically, we analyze three detector alignments relative to the string: parallel and orthogonal alignments with detectors on the same side of the string, and an orthogonal alignment with detectors on opposite sides of the string. For the alignments on the same side of the string, we observe that the cosmic string’s presence can either aid or hinder entanglement harvesting, affecting both the extent of entanglement harvested and the achievable range of interdetector separation. This effect depends on the distance between the detectors and the string and differs markedly from scenarios in a locally flat spacetime with a reflecting boundary, where the boundary invariably extends the harvesting-achievable range. Conversely, for the alignment with detectors on opposite sides of the string, we find that detectors consistently harvest more entanglement than those in a flat spacetime devoid of a cosmic string. This starkly contrasts the behavior observed with detectors on the same side. Interestingly, the presence of a cosmic string expands the harvesting-achievable range for detectors in orthogonal alignment only when near the string, whereas it invariably reduces the achievable range for detectors in parallel alignment.

Abstract Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is an eye disease that causes blindness and vision loss in diabetic. Risk factors for DR include high blood glucose levels and some environmental factors. The pathogenesis is based on inflammation caused by interferon and other nuclear proteins. This review article provides an overview of DR and discusses the role of nuclear proteins in the pathogenesis of the disease. Some core proteins such as MAPK, transcription co-factors, transcription co-activators, and others are part of this review. In addition, some current advanced treatment resulting from the role of nuclear proteins will be analyzes, including epigenetic modifications, the use of methylation, acetylation, and histone modifications. Stem cell technology and the use of nanobiotechnology are proposed as promising approaches for a more effective treatment of DR.

Abstract Background Hypercoagulability emerges as a central pathological feature and clinical complication in nephrotic syndrome. Increased platelet activation and aggregability are closely related to hypercoagulability in nephrotic syndrome. Monocyte-platelet aggregates (MPAs) have been proposed to represent a robust biomarker of platelet activation. The aim of this study was to investigate levels of the circulating MPAs and MPAs with the different monocyte subsets to evaluate the association of MPAs with hypercoagulability in nephrotic syndrome. Methods Thirty-two patients with nephrotic syndrome were enrolled. In addition, thirty-two healthy age and sex matched adult volunteers served as healthy controls. MPAs were identified by CD14 monocytes positive for CD41a platelets. The classical (CD14 + + CD16-, CM), the intermediate (CD14 + + CD16+, IM) and the non-classical (CD14 + CD16++, NCM) monocytes, as well as subset specific MPAs, were measured by flow cytometry. Results Patients with nephrotic syndrome showed a higher percentage of circulating MPAs as compared with healthy controls (p

Abstract Background Childhood obesity is increasingly recognized as a major public health challenge worldwide, and excessive sedentary screen time is emerging as a key risk factor. This study aimed to assess the recreational screen sedentary time of Chinese primary school-aged children and investigate the relationship between screen-related family factors and the outcome variable. Methods Our study used data from a cross-sectional survey collected from fifth-grade students and their parents in Beijing, China, from April to May 2018 (n = 2,373). The questions included basic demographic information, family socioeconomic status, students’ and parents’ sedentary and exercising habits, within-family communicational factors, and health belief patterns. The recreational screen sedentary time of the children was compared across demographic groups. The study employed multivariate linear regression models to examine associations between children’s screen time and various family factors, as well as the moderating effect of overall family communication. Results Our findings revealed an average daily recreational screen sedentary time of 2.4 h among participants. Screen time significantly varied across demographic categories, including children’s sex, age, residence, parents’ education, household income, family size, and primary family member. After adjustment, the proportion of child-owned digital devices (p

Abstract Background In China, real‐world data on surgical challenges and postoperative complications after neoadjuvant immunotherapy of lung cancer are limited. Methods Patients were retrospectively enrolled from January 2018 to January 2023, and their clinical and pathological characters were subsequently analyzed. Surgical difficulty was categorized into a binary classification according to surgical duration: challenging or routine. Postoperative complications were graded using Clavien–Dindo grades. Logistic regression was used to identify risk factors affecting the duration of surgery and postoperative complications greater than Clavien–Dindo grade 2. Results In total, 261 patients were included. Of these, stage III patients accounted for 62.5% (163/261) at initial diagnosis, with 25.3% (66/261) at stage IIIB. Central‐type non‐small‐cell lung cancer accounted for 61.7% (161/261). One hundred and forty patients underwent video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery and lobectomy accounted for 53.3% (139/261) of patients. Surgical time over average duration was defined as challenging surgeries, accounting for 43.7%. The postoperative complications rate of 261 patients was only 22.2%. Smoking history (odds ratio [OR] = 9.96, 95% [CI] 1.15–86.01, p = 0.03), chemoimmunotherapy (OR = 2.89, 95% CI 1.22–6.86, p = 0.02), and conversion to open surgery (OR = 11.3, 95% CI 1.38–92.9, p = 0.02) were identified as independent risk factors for challenging surgeries, while pneumonectomy (OR = 0.36, 95% CI 0.15–0.86, p= 0.02) was a protective factor. Meanwhile, pneumonectomy (OR = 7.51, 95% CI 2.40–23.51, p

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous studies focused on mental health, but few considered both positive and negative aspects within the dual-factor model of psychological well-being. In China, a highly populous country, limited evidence exists regarding mental health and its associated factors following the surge and decline of COVID-19 cases after the loosening of COVID-19 control measures. This study aims to investigate the mental health status of Chinese residents in the aftermath of the pandemic and factors influencing positive and negative indicators using the System-Based Model of Stress. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey of 1,026 participants was conducted in China from March 2–31, 2023, using quota sampling. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was performed to test the conceptual model, where social support, perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, pandemic-related events, coping style, and concern about COVID-19 were considered as predictors, and psychological distress and subjective well-being as outcomes. Results: The results revealed high prevalence rates of psychological distress (23 %) with either of anxiety (15 %) or depression (20 %), and poor subjective well-being (23 %) among Chinese residents after the COVID-19 pandemic. Social support was negatively correlated with psychological distress, and negative coping style, pandemic-related events, and concern about COVID-19 were positively correlated with psychological distress. Moreover, social support was positively correlated with subjective well-being, and negative coping style and pandemic-related events were negatively correlated with subjective well-being. Conclusions: These findings enhance our understanding of the differing correlates of positive and negative mental health, suggesting targeted psychological interventions for post-pandemic and future public health events.

Abstract In the past, hydrogen sulfide (H2S) was recognized as a toxic and dangerous gas; in recent years, with increased research, we have discovered that H2S can act as an endogenous regulatory transmitter. In mammals, H2S‐catalyzing enzymes, such as cystathionine‐β‐synthase, cystathionine‐γ‐lyase, and 3‐mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase, are differentially expressed in a variety of tissues and affect a variety of biological functions, such as transcriptional and posttranslational modification of genes, activation of signaling pathways in the cell, and metabolic processes in tissues, by producing H2S. Various preclinical studies have shown that H2S affects physiological and pathological processes in the body. However, a detailed systematic summary of these roles in health and disease is lacking. Therefore, this review provides a thorough overview of the physiological roles of H2S in different systems and the diseases associated with disorders of H2S metabolism, such as ischemia–reperfusion injury, hypertension, neurodegenerative diseases, inflammatory bowel disease, and cancer. Meanwhile, this paper also introduces H2S donors and novel release modes, as well as the latest preclinical experimental results, aiming to provide researchers with new ideas to discover new diagnostic targets and therapeutic options.

Abstract Background To evaluate the technical success and patient safety of magnetic resonance-guided percutaneous microwave coagulation (MR-guided PMC) for breast malignancies. Methods From May 2018 to December 2019, 26 patients with breast tumors measuring 2 cm or less were recruited to participate in a prospective, single-institution clinical study. The primary endpoint of this study was the evaluation of treatment efficacy for each patient. Histochemical staining with α-nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide and reduced (NADH)-diaphorase was used to determine cell viability following and efficacy of PMC. The complications and self-reported sensations from all patients during and after ablation were also assessed. The technical success of the PMC procedure was defined when the area of the NADH-diaphorase negative region fully covered the hematoxylin–eosin (H&E) staining region in the tumor. Results All patients had a complete response to ablation with no residual carcinoma on histopathological specimen. The mean energy, ablation duration, and procedure duration per tumor were 36.0 ± 4.2 kJ, 252.9 ± 30.9 S, and 104.2 ± 13.5 min, respectively. During the ablation, 14 patients underwent prolonged ablation time, and 1 patient required adjusting of the antenna position. Eleven patients had feelings of subtle heat or swelling, and 3 patients experienced slight pain. After ablation, one patient took two painkillers because of moderate pain, and no patients had postoperative oozing or other complications after PMC. Induration around the ablation area appeared in 16 patients. Conclusion MR-guided PMC of small breast tumors is feasible and could be applied in clinical practice in the future. Critical relevance statement MR-guided PMC of small breast tumors is feasible and could be applied in clinical practice in the future. Key points • MR-guided PMC of small breast tumors is feasible. • PMC was successfully performed for all patients. • All patients were satisfied with the final cosmetic result. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a prevalent arrhythmic condition resulting in increased stroke risk and is associated with high mortality. Electrolyte imbalance can increase the risk of AF, where the relationship between AF and serum electrolytes remains unclear. Methods A total of 15,792 individuals were included in the observational study, with incident AF ascertainment in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study. The Cox regression models were applied to calculate the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for AF based on different serum electrolyte levels. Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses were performed to examine the causal association. Results In observational study, after a median 19.7 years of follow-up, a total of 2551 developed AF. After full adjustment, participants with serum potassium below the 5th percentile had a higher risk of AF relative to participants in the middle quintile. Serum magnesium was also inversely associated with the risk of AF. An increased incidence of AF was identified in individuals with higher serum phosphate percentiles. Serum calcium levels were not related to AF risk. Moreover, MR analysis indicated that genetically predicted serum electrolyte levels were not causally associated with AF risk. The odds ratio for AF were 0.999 for potassium, 1.044 for magnesium, 0.728 for phosphate, and 0.979 for calcium, respectively. Conclusions Serum electrolyte disorders such as hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia and hyperphosphatemia were associated with an increased risk of AF and may also serve to be prognostic factors. However, the present study did not support serum electrolytes as causal mediators for AF development.

Abstract For a long time, hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has been considered a toxic compound, but recent studies have found that H2S is the third gaseous signaling molecule which plays a vital role in physiological and pathological conditions. Currently, a large number of studies have shown that H2S mediates apoptosis through multiple signaling pathways to participate in cancer occurrence and development, for example, PI3K/Akt/mTOR and MAPK signaling pathways. Therefore, the regulation of the production and metabolism of H2S to mediate the apoptotic process of cancer cells may improve the effectiveness of cancer treatment. In this review, the role and mechanism of H2S in cancer cell apoptosis in mammals are summarized.

ABSTRACTInflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic and debilitating condition of relapsing and remitting inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. Conventional therapeutic approaches for IBD have shown limited efficacy and detrimental side effects, leading to the quest for novel and effective treatment options for the disease. Bacterial membrane vesicles (MVs) are nanosized lipid particles secreted by lysis or blebbing processes from both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. These vesicles, known to carry bioactive components, are facsimiles of the parent bacterium and have been implicated in the onset and progression, as well as in the amelioration of IBD. This review discusses the overview of MVs and their impact in the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of IBD. We further discuss the technical challenges facing this research area and possible research questions addressing these challenges. We summarize recent advances in the diverse relationship between IBD and MVs, and the application of this knowledge as a viable and potent therapeutic strategy for IBD.

Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved cellular recycling process that maintains cellular homeostasis. Despite extensive research in endocrine contexts, the role of autophagy in ovarian and testicular steroidogenesis remains elusive. The significant role of autophagy in testosterone production suggests potential treatments for conditions like oligospermia and azoospermia. Further, influence of autophagy in folliculogenesis, ovulation, and luteal development emphasizes its importance for improved fertility and reproductive health. Thus, investigating autophagy in gonadal cells is clinically significant. Understanding these processes could transform treatments for endocrine disorders, enhancing reproductive health and longevity. Herein, we provide the functional role of autophagy in testicular and ovarian steroidogenesis to date, highlighting its modulation in testicular steroidogenesis and its impact on hormone synthesis, follicle development, and fertility therapies.

Abstract Background Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a common complication after general anaesthesia and is associated with morbidity and prolonged length of stay. Growing evidence suggest that opioid-free general anaesthesia (OFA) may reduce PONV in various surgical settings. We aim to evaluate the efficacy of OFA on the incidence of PONV compared with opioid-based anaesthesia among adults undergoing thoracoscopic surgery. Methods This is a prospective, single-centre, randomised controlled trial comparing OFA and opioid-based anaesthesia for thoracoscopic surgery. A total of 168 adults will be randomised with a 1:1 ratio to receive either opioid-free anaesthesia or opioid-based anaesthesia. The primary outcome will be the incidence of PONV within 24 h after operation. The secondary outcomes will include the severity of PONV, quality of recovery, pain at rest, 6-min walking test, and health-related quality of life after operation. Discussion The benefit-risk of OFA for patients after operation is contradictory in previous studies, so further study is required. This trial will focus on the effect of OFA on the incidence of PONV in patients undergoing thoracoscopic surgery. This trial adopts uniformed PONV and perioperative pain management, standardised randomised and blind, clear-cut inclusion and exclusion criteria, and standardised scales to assess the severity of PONV after surgery, the quality of postoperative recovery, and the health status at 6 months. The findings of this study will help to provide references to promote early recovery of patients after lung surgery. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05411159. Registered on 9 June 2022.

BackgroundThe preoperative inflammatory condition significantly influences the prognosis of malignancies. We aimed to investigate the potential significance of preoperative inflammatory biomarkers in forecasting the long-term results of lung carcinoma after microwave ablation (MWA).MethodThis study included patients who received MWA treatment for lung carcinoma from Jan. 2012 to Dec. 2020. We collected demographic, clinical, laboratory, and outcome information. To assess the predictive capacity of inflammatory biomarkers, we utilized the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC) and assessed the predictive potential of inflammatory biomarkers in forecasting outcomes through both univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard analyses.ResultsA total of 354 individuals underwent MWA treatment, of which 265 cases were included in this study, whose average age was 69.1 ± 9.7 years. The AUC values for the Systemic Inflammatory Response Index (SIRI) to overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were 0.796 and 0.716, respectively. The Cox proportional hazards model demonstrated a significant independent association between a high SIRI and a decreased overall survival (hazard ratio [HR]=2.583, P

BackgroundLeptospirosis is a bacterial zoonosis with variable clinical manifestations. Pulmonary diffuse hemorrhagic leptospirosis often occurs rapidly and, when not promptly diagnosed and treated, it can be life-threatening. Aspergillus flavus is an opportunistic fungus that is commonly seen in immunosuppressed patients. Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis also progresses rapidly. This case study describes a patient with severe pneumonia caused by pulmonary hemorrhagic leptospirosis combined with invasive pulmonary aspergillosis. We have found almost no clinical reports to date on these two diseases occurring in the same patient.Case presentationA 73-year-old male arrived at our hospital complaining of fever, general malaise, and hemoptysis that had lasted 4 days. The patient was initially diagnosed with severe pneumonia in the emergency department, but he did not respond well to empiric antibiotics. Subsequently, the patient’s condition worsened and was transferred to the ICU ward after emergency tracheal intubation and invasive ventilator. In the ICU, antibacterial drugs were adjusted to treat bacteria and fungi extensively. Although the inflammatory indices decreased, the patient still had recurrent fever, and a series of etiological tests were negative. Finally, metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) of bronchial alveolar lavage fluid detected Leptospira interrogans and Aspergillus flavus. After targeted treatment with penicillin G and voriconazole, the patient’s condition improved rapidly, and he was eventually transferred out of the ICU and recovered.ConclusionEarly recognition and diagnosis of leptospirosis is difficult, especially when a patient is co-infected with other pathogens. The use of mNGS to detect pathogens in bronchial alveolar lavage fluid is conducive to early diagnosis and treatment of the disease, and may significantly improve the prognosis in severe cases.

The existing network representation learning algorithms mainly model the relationship between network nodes based on the structural features of the network, or use text features, hierarchical features and other external attributes to realize the network joint representation learning. Capturing global features of the network allows the obtained node vectors to retain more comprehensive feature information during training, thereby enhancing the quality of embeddings. In order to preserve the global structural features of the network in the training results, we employed a multi-channel learning approach to perform high-order feature modeling on the network. We proposed a novel algorithm for multi-channel high-order network representation learning, referred to as the Multi-Channel High-Order Network Representation (MHNR) algorithm. This algorithm initially constructs high-order network features from the original network structure, thereby transforming the single-channel network representation learning process into a multi-channel high-order network representation learning process. Then, for each single-channel network representation learning process, the novel graph assimilation mechanism is introduced in the algorithm, so as to realize the high-order network structure modeling mechanism in the single-channel network representation learning. Finally, the algorithm integrates the multi-channel and single-channel mechanism of high-order network structure joint modeling, realizing the efficient use of network structure features and sufficient modeling. Experimental results show that the node classification performance of the proposed MHNR algorithm reaches a good order on Citeseer, Cora, and DBLP data, and its node classification performance is better than that of the comparison algorithm used in this paper. In addition, when the vector length is optimized, the average classification accuracy of nodes of the proposed algorithm is up to 12.24% higher than that of the DeepWalk algorithm. Therefore, the node classification performance of the proposed algorithm can reach the current optimal order only based on the structural features of the network under the condition of no external feature supplementary modeling.

Abstract Background Calcifying pseudoneoplasm of the neuraxis (CAPNON) is indeed a rare central nervous system lesion that can occur in central nervous system (CNS). Due to its infrequency and limited literature reports, it is challenging to diagnose and manage CAPNON. Case presentation In this intriguing study, we embarked on a quest to uncover the story of a 16-year-old girl who experienced bothersome headaches. Through advanced imaging techniques like computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), we glimpsed a delicate calcified growth within the lateral ventricles’ posterior horn. Motivated by our unwavering commitment to solving mysteries, we embarked on a surgical journey that not only freed the young patient from her ailment but also shed light on the true nature of her puzzling adversary—a remarkable CAPNON. Conclusions For patients with CAPNON who have multiple or non-respectable lesions, the primary goal is to alleviate symptoms. After alleviating the symptoms with partial resection, close monitoring of any residual lesions is essential. If there is no evidence for disease progression, a strategy of continued close observation is appropriate.

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is one of the three known gas signal transducers, and since its potential physiological role was reported, the literature on H2S has been increasing. H2S is involved in processes such as vasodilation, neurotransmission, angiogenesis, inflammation, and the prevention of ischemia-reperfusion injury, and its mechanism remains to be further studied. At present, the role of post-translational processing of proteins has been considered as a possible mechanism for the involvement of H2S in a variety of physiological processes. Current studies have shown that H2S is involved in S-sulfhydration, phosphorylation, and S-nitrosylation of proteins, etc. This paper focuses on the effects of protein modification involving H2S on physiological and pathological processes, looking forward to providing guidance for subsequent research.

Abstract Skeletal muscle disease severity can often progress asymmetrically across muscle groups and heterogeneously within tissues. An example is Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) in which lack of dystrophin results in devastating skeletal muscle wasting in some muscles whereas others are spared or undergo hypertrophy. An efficient, non-invasive approach to identify sites of asymmetry and degenerative lesions could enable better patient monitoring and therapeutic targeting of disease. In this study, we utilized a versatile intravenously injectable mesoporous silica nanoparticle (MSNP) based nanocarrier system to explore mechanisms of biodistribution in skeletal muscle of mdx mouse models of DMD including wildtype, dystrophic, and severely dystrophic mice. Moreover, MSNPs could be imaged in live mice and whole muscle tissues enabling investigation of how biodistribution is altered by different types of muscle pathology such as inflammation or fibrosis. We found MSNPs were tenfold more likely to aggregate within select mdx muscles relative to wild type, such as gastrocnemius and quadriceps. This was accompanied by decreased biodistribution in off-target organs. We found the greatest factor affecting preferential delivery was the regenerative state of the dystrophic skeletal muscle with the highest MSNP abundance coinciding with the regions showing the highest level of embryonic myosin staining and intramuscular macrophage uptake. To demonstrate, muscle regeneration regulated MSNP distribution, we experimentally induced regeneration using barium chloride which resulted in a threefold increase of intravenously injected MSNPs to sites of regeneration 7 days after injury. These discoveries provide the first evidence that nanoparticles have selective biodistribution to skeletal muscle in DMD to areas of active regeneration and that nanoparticles could enable diagnostic and selective drug delivery in DMD skeletal muscle.

Abstract Background Previous research examined the associations between social support and physical activity. However, little is known about the associations between social support change and trajectories of physical activity during the transition from late adolescence to young adulthood. Methods The current study sought to examine these issues among 434 Chinese college students (M age = 19.15, SD age = 0.61; 46.1% male), who completed questionnaires regarding demographics, physical activity, family support change, and peer support change across three waves (the data from one of the waves was retrospective). Results After controlling for covariates, the findings revealed that: (a) there was an increase in overall physical activity and duration, but a decrease in frequency during the transition from late adolescence (the second year of high school) to young adulthood (the third year of college); (b) family support change did not contribute to trajectories of physical activity, while peer support change significantly predicted the trajectory of overall physical activity, duration, and frequency. Conclusions The findings extend the literature on physical activity from a developmental perspective by revealing different trends among physical activity duration and frequency, and unpacking different effects of family and peer support change on trajectories of physical activity.

Direct air capture (DAC) is one of the most potential technologies to mitigate CO2 emission. Adsorption technology is recognized as a promising CO2 capture method in view of its desirable characteristics including reusability of adsorbents and low capital investment. To further improve thermal performance, evaporation/condensation heat of vapor compression refrigeration (VCR) cycle in air condition system of buildings is adopted for adsorption/desorption process of DAC. Thermal performance of a 4-step temperature swing adsorption process (TSA) is analyzed at various adsorption/desorption temperatures by using different adsorbents. Analysis on Coefficient of Performance (COP) of VCR cycle is also conducted in search for a balance between adsorbent and refrigerant. Taking both real working capacity and COP into consideration, Mg-MOF-74&R134a is the best choice for more amounts of CO2. Real working capacity of Mg-MOF-74 is up to 0.38 mol•kg−1 at 70 °C, which is twice as much as that of zeolite 13X. While zeolite 13X&R134a shows the best performance of two cycles in view of exergy efficiency and COP, which could reach 81.9% and 7.21, respectively, at 35 °C. These matches will provide some guidelines for the practical application of the combination of DAC with heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC).

Abstract Lung cancer screening using computed tomography (CT) has increased the detection rate of small pulmonary nodules and early-stage lung adenocarcinoma. It would be clinically meaningful to accurate assessment of the nodule histology by CT scans with advanced deep learning algorithms. However, recent studies mainly focus on predicting benign and malignant nodules, lacking of model for the risk stratification of invasive adenocarcinoma. We propose an ensemble multi-view 3D convolutional neural network (EMV-3D-CNN) model to study the risk stratification of lung adenocarcinoma. We include 1075 lung nodules (≤30 mm and ≥4 mm) with preoperative thin-section CT scans and definite pathology confirmed by surgery. Our model achieves a state-of-art performance of 91.3% and 92.9% AUC for diagnosis of benign/malignant and pre-invasive/invasive nodules, respectively. Importantly, our model outperforms senior doctors in risk stratification of invasive adenocarcinoma with 77.6% accuracy [i.e., Grades 1, 2, 3]). It provides detailed predictive histological information for the surgical management of pulmonary nodules. Finally, for user-friendly access, the proposed model is implemented as a web-based system ( https://seeyourlung.com.cn ).

Abstract Understanding tumor heterogeneity and immune infiltrates within the tumor-immune microenvironment (TIME) is essential for the innovation of immunotherapies. Here, combining single-cell transcriptomics and chromatin accessibility sequencing, we profile the intratumor heterogeneity of malignant cells and immune properties of the TIME in primary central nervous system diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (PCNS DLBCL) patients. We demonstrate diverse malignant programs related to tumor-promoting pathways, cell cycle and B-cell immune response. By integrating data from independent systemic DLBCL and follicular lymphoma cohorts, we reveal a prosurvival program with aberrantly elevated RNA splicing activity that is uniquely associated with PCNS DLBCL. Moreover, a plasmablast-like program that recurs across PCNS/activated B-cell DLBCL predicts a worse prognosis. In addition, clonally expanded CD8 T cells in PCNS DLBCL undergo a transition from a pre-exhaustion-like state to exhaustion, and exhibit higher exhaustion signature scores than systemic DLBCL. Thus, our study sheds light on potential reasons for the poor prognosis of PCNS DLBCL patients, which will facilitate the development of targeted therapy.

Abstract Introduction Beijing initiated the nation’s most comprehensive tobacco control program that adheres to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. This study aimed to identify a set of indicators for the scoping of an Health Impact Assessment (HIA) to assess this policy. Methods This study used a modified Delphi process. It proposed a tobacco control health impact framework based on the Driving forces- Pressure- State- Exposure- Effect- Action model and the Determinants of Health Theory. After a review of current surveillance system and literature, a working group of 13 experts with multidisciplinary background was established to formulate indicator evaluation criteria and conduct indicator scoring. Each indicator was scored by experts according to four evaluation criteria chosen. Indicators that obtained a total score above 80% and with standard error less than 5 were selected as the final set of indicators. Kendall’s coefficient of concordance was calculated. Results Twenty-three out of 36 indicators were selected. Smoking prevalence, mortality rate, hospital admission rate, tobacco consumption and hospital admission fees of smoking related diseases achieved more than 90% of total scores and ranked as the top five. Kendall’s concordance coefficient was 0.218 for all indicators. For all model composition, Kendall’s concordance coefficients were statistically significant. Conclusion This study identified a set of twenty-three indicators for scoping of HIA of a comprehensive tobacco control policy in Beijing based on a tobacco control health impact conceptual framework. The set of indicators achieved high scores and statistically significant consistency and has great potential to promote the evaluation of tobacco control policy in a global city. Further study might use the set of indicators for HIA on tobacco control policy to analyze empirical data.

Abstract Background Influenza A viruses have undergone rapid evolution with virulent; however, complete and comprehensive data on gene evolution and amino acid variation of HA and NA in immunosuppressed patients was few. In this study, we analysed molecular epidemiology and evolution of influenza A viruses in immunosuppressed population, and immunocompetent population were used as controls. Methods Full sequences of HA and NA of A(H1N1)pdm09 and A(H3N2) were acquired through reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). HA and NA genes were sequenced using the Sanger method and phylogenetically analysed using ClustalW 2.10 and MEGA software version 11.0. Results During the 2018–2020 influenza seasons, 54 immunosuppressed and 46 immunocompetent inpatients screened positive for influenza A viruses by using the quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) were enrolled. 27 immunosuppressed and 23 immunocompetent nasal swab or bronchoalveolar lavage fluid samples were randomly selected and sequenced using the Sanger method. A(H1N1)pdm09 were detected in 15 samples and the remaining 35 samples were A(H3N2) positive. By analyzing the HA and NA gene sequences of these virus strains, we found that all A(H1N1)pdm09 viruses shared high similarities to each other and the HA and NA genes of these viruses exclusively belonged to subclade 6B.1A.1. Some NA genes of A(H3N2) viruses were not in the same clade as those of A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016 and A/Kansas/14/2017, which may have led to A(H3N2) being the dominant strain in the 2019–2020 influenza season. Both A(H1N1)pdm09 and A(H3N2) viruses showed similar evolutionary lineages patterns of HA and NA between immunosuppressed and immunocompetent patients. Compared with the vaccine strains, there were no statistically significant of HA and NA genes and amino acid sequences of influenza A viruses in immunosuppressed and immunocompetent patients. However, the oseltamivir resistance substitution of NA-H275Y and R292K have been observed in immunosuppressed patients. Conclusions A(H1N1)pdm09 and A(H3N2) viruses showed similar evolutionary lineages patterns of HA and NA between immunosuppressed and immunocompetent patients. Both immunocompetent and immunosuppressed patients have some key substitutions, which should be of note monitored, especially those with potential to affect the viral antigen.

As global climate change intensifies, the frequency and severity of wildfires affecting communities worldwide are on the rise. Therefore, the issue of residential safety for people is becoming increasingly crucial. During a fire, smoke particles and toxic emissions could infiltrate the refuge space through gaps in doors, making it a primary risk factor for casualties. It is worth conducting in-depth research and investigation on how to effectively utilize available tools and facilities to enhance the probability of survival while waiting for rescue behind closed doors. This study uses iron, aluminum, and wooden doors as experimental samples. Thirty participants conducted a total of 1,620 experiments using six different qualities of tape to investigate the impact of applying different layers of tape on improving door leakage and the time required for tape application. This study proposes that in situations when people are waiting for rescue in refuge spaces, the most efficient course of action would involve the fastest available tape. The rationale behind this is that while different types of tape may vary in their smoke-shielding effectiveness, using three layers of tape can meet the leakage effectiveness standards, specifically less than 25 m3/hr at a differential pressure of 25 Pa.

Background: Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has been identified as the third gaseous signaling molecule. Endogenous H2S plays a key role in the progression of various types of cancer. However, the effect of endogenous H2S on the growth of esophageal cancer (EC) remains unknown. Methods: In this study, three kinds of H2S-producing enzymes inhibitors, DL-propargylglycine (PAG, inhibitor of cystathionine-γ-lyase), aminooxyacetic acid (AOAA, inhibitor of cystathionine-β-synthase), and L-aspartic acid (L-Asp, inhibitor of 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase) were used to determine the role of endogenous H2S in the growth of EC9706 and K450 human EC cells. Results: The results indicated that the combination (PAG+AOAA+L-Asp) group showed higher inhibitory effects on the viability, proliferation, migration, and invasion of EC cells than PAG, AOAA, and L-Asp group. Inhibition of endogenous H2S promoted apoptosis via activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway in EC cells. Endogenous H2S suppression triggered pyroptosis of EC cells by activating reactive oxygen species-mediated nuclear factor-κB signaling pathway. In addition, the combine group showed its more powerful growth-inhibitory effect on the growth of human EC xenograft tumors in nude mice without obvious toxicity. Conclusion: Our results indicate that inhibition of endogenous H2S production can significantly inhibit human EC cell growth via promotion of apoptosis and pyroptosis. Endogenous H2S may be a promising therapeutic target in EC cells. Novel inhibitors for H2S-producing enzymes can be designed and developed for EC treatment.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common malignant digestive tract tumor in colorectal regions. Considerable evidence now shows that the gut microbiota have essential roles in CRC occurrence and development. Most Gram-negative bacteria release outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) via outer membrane blistering, which contain specific cargoes which interact with host cells via intercellular communications, host immune regulation, and gut microbiota homeostasis. Studies have also shown that OMVs selectively cluster near tumor cells, thus cancer treatment strategies based on OMVs have attracted considerable research attention. However, little is known about the possible impact of gut microbiota OMVs in CRC pathophysiology. Therefore, in this review, we summarize the research progress on molecular composition and function of OMV, and review the microbial dysbiosis in CRC. We then focus on the potential role of gut microbiota OMVs in CRC. Finally, we examine the clinical potential of OMVs in CRC treatment, and their main advantages and challenges in tumor therapy.

Abstract Background To investigate the effect of continuous oral aspirin in perioperative period on bleeding in pneumonectomy. Methods A total of 170 patients who underwent pneumonectomy in our hospital from March 2021 to March 2022 were selected as the study objects. All patients took oral aspirin before surgery and did not take other antiplatelet agent or anticoagulants at the same time. The continuation group included 85 cases and continued to take aspirin 100 mg/day during the perioperative period, and the interruption group included 85 cases who stopped aspirin for 7 days before surgery and 3 days after surgery, without bridging therapy. The intraoperative blood loss, operation time, conversion to thoracotomy rate, postoperative bleeding rate, blood transfusion rate, thrombotic events, postoperative drainage volume, length of hospital stay, and total hospital cost of the two groups were compared. Results There were no statistically significant differences in intraoperative blood loss, operative time, rate of conversion to open, postoperative drainage, hospital stay, and cost between the two groups (p > 0.05), and there were no reoperations due to bleeding between the two groups. Conclusions Aspirin should be continued throughout the perioperative period in all high‐risk patients requiring pneumonectomy after balancing ischemic‐bleeding risks.

Abstract Background To evaluate multiple parameters in multiple b-value diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in characterizing breast lesions and predicting prognostic factors and molecular subtypes. Methods In total, 504 patients who underwent 3-T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with T1-weighted dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) sequences, T2-weighted sequences and multiple b-value (7 values, from 0 to 3000 s/mm2) DWI were recruited. The average values of 13 parameters in 6 models were calculated and recorded. The pathological diagnosis of breast lesions was based on the latest World Health Organization (WHO) classification. Results Twelve parameters exhibited statistical significance in differentiating benign and malignant lesions. alpha demonstrated the highest sensitivity (89.5%), while sigma demonstrated the highest specificity (77.7%). The stretched-exponential model (SEM) demonstrated the highest sensitivity (90.8%), while the biexponential model demonstrated the highest specificity (80.8%). The highest AUC (0.882, 95% CI, 0.852–0.912) was achieved when all 13 parameters were combined. Prognostic factors were correlated with different parameters, but the correlation was relatively weak. Among the 6 parameters with significant differences among molecular subtypes of breast cancer, the Luminal A group and Luminal B (HER2 negative) group had relatively low values, and the HER2-enriched group and TNBC group had relatively high values. Conclusions All 13 parameters, independent or combined, provide valuable information in distinguishing malignant from benign breast lesions. These new parameters have limited meaning for predicting prognostic factors and molecular subtypes of malignant breast tumors.

Epimedium longnanense, a new species of Epimedium (Berberidaceae) from Longnan Prefecture, Gansu Province, China, is here proposed and illustrated. E. longnanense has large flowers with petals possessing long spur and obvious basal lamina, and thus should be grouped into series Davidianae. The species closely resembles E. flavum of ser. Davidianae in morphology. However, it can be easily distinguished by its elongated rhizome (vs. compact), trifoliolate leaves (vs. five leaflets, sometimes trifoliolate), pale pink or purplish-red inner sepals with 6–8 × 2–3 mm (vs. pale sulphur-yellow, ca. 11 × 4 mm).

Abstract Introduction The number of patients with synchronous multiple primary lung cancer (sMPLC) has increased recently. However, diagnosing and selecting the appropriate therapeutic strategy for this type of disease is not simple. Case presentation This report presented a case of sMPLC with lymph node metastasis. With no smoking and cancer history, this patient had seven nodules in the right lung and underwent single-portal video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). In addition, she received four cycles of chemotherapy after the operation. Whole exon sequencing (WES) was performed in five resected tissue samples (four tumors and one lymph node). We conducted genomic profiling and clone evolution analysis of the five samples. Gene detection helped to confirm that the metastasis lymph node was transferred from one nodule. There was apparent heterogeneity of gene mutations among the five samples of the patient, with only one shared “neurofilament heavy polypeptide” (NEFH) mutation. A dominant substitution of C > T/G > A was found in all the samples. Pyclone model was used to calculate all tissues' cellular prevalence (CP) values, and NEFH mutations were thought to be the ancestral clones. During the follow-up period, residual lesions showed no apparent changes and limited response to chemotherapy. Conclusions This report showed an essential role in genomic detection and selecting the appropriate treatment of sMPLC. Surgery remains the primary treatment strategy for this type of disease, and the occurrence and development of sMPLC need more in-depth research.