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Abstract To reveal the velocity distribution law of a gas lift reverse circulation well washing flow field in drilling shaft sinking, a velocity mathematical model of well washing flow field is established. The theoretical analytical solutions and velocity distribution laws in the drill pipe and bottom hole were provided and validated through numerical simulations and similar model tests. Furthermore, this study explores the impacts of mud circulation, wind pressure, rock debris, and mud properties on the flow field distribution, presenting the sensitivity order of the factors. This study indicated the following findings. (1) The velocity theoretical model of well washing flow field was validated through numerical simulation and similar model tests, and the relative error ranged from 4.2 to 18.5%, demonstrating the high consistency. (2) The rock debris and mud experienced slight and consistent deceleration within the drill pipe. Upon reaching the gas input end, the axial upward return of the multiphase flow resulted in a “jumping” sharp increase. (3) The mud circulation, wind pressure, and void fraction positively correlated with the multiphase fluid velocity in the drill pipe, but negatively correlated with the mud density and slag content. The axial upward velocity of the rock debris decreased with increasing particle size and density. (4) The sensitivity of each factor to the discharge speed of rock debris was summarized as follows: air content > mud circulation > wind pressure > mud density > rock debris density > rock debris particle size > slag content. These findings could offer a theoretical basis for selecting well washing parameters and enhancing drilling and washing efficiency.

Abstract Background Vitamin K (VK), an essential fat-soluble nutrient, exists in two primary forms, vitamin K1 (VK1), and vitamin K2 (VK2). VK1 plays an essential role in blood coagulation, while VK2 plays a crucial role in managing bone calcification, supporting bone strength and health. However, comprehensive epidemiological data on VK remains sparse, particularly in children. This study aims to evaluate the levels and characteristics of VK in children of Wenzhou area, China. Methods A total of 3,342 children undergoing routine physical examinations in the outpatient department from December 2020 to August 2022 were recruited. The levels of VK (including VK1 and menaquinones (MK-4), a major form of VK2) and 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D) in fasting serum samples from these children were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The study analyzed the levels and distribution of VK and 25(OH)D across different sex, age, and weight groups, and explored their potential related factors. Results The median serum levels of MK-4 and VK1 were 0.12 (0.07, 0.21) ng/ml and 0.33 (0.18, 0.57) ng/ml, respectively. The reference ranges of MK-4 and VK1 were 0.01–0.58 ng/ml and 0.03–1.48 ng/ml, respectively. The median serum 25(OH)D level was 21.26 (17.30, 25.35) ng/ml. Moreover, there were no significant variations in the levels of MK-4 and VK1 across different age and sex groups. The level of MK-4 in the underweight group was significantly higher than that in the normal weight group. MK-4 level reached its peak in summer, while the VK1 concentration was at its lowest. Furthermore, a very weak positive correlation was revealed between MK-4 and VK1 levels. Conclusion In this study, we defined the median values and reference ranges of MK-4 and VK1 in a sample of Chinese children aged 0–18 years. MK-4 levels were higher in underweight children. Both MK-4 and VK1 levels exhibited seasonal variations. Further research is needed to explore the factors affecting MK-4 and VK1 levels.

Background: Senile osteoporosis (SOP) is a systemic bone disease characterized by increased susceptibility to fractures. However, there is currently no effective treatment for SOP. The Zhuangyao Jianshen Wan (ZYJSW) pill is traditionally believed to possess kidney-nourishing and bone-strengthening effects, demonstrating efficacy in treating fractures. Despite this, its effectiveness and mechanism in SOP remain unclear. This study aims to investigate the therapeutic potential of ZYJSW in treating SOP in senescence accelerated mouse prone 6 (SAMP6, P6) mice, and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Methods: Four-month-old SAMP6 mice were categorized into six groups: the model group (SAMP6), low, medium, and high-dose ZYJSW treatment groups, calcitriol treatment (positive control 1) group, and metformin treatment (positive control 2) group. Gastric administration was carried out for 15 weeks, and a normal control group comprising four-month-old Senescence-Accelerated Mouse Resistant 1 (SAMR1) mice. Changes in body weight, liver and kidney function, bone protective effects, and muscle quality were evaluated using various assays, including H&E staining, Goldner staining, bone tissue morphology analysis, Micro-CT imaging, and biomechanical testing. Qualitative analysis and quality control of ZYJSW were performed via LC-MS/MS analysis. To explore mechanisms, network pharmacology and proteomics were employed, and the identified proteins were validated by Western blotting. Results: Oral administration of ZYJSW to P6 mice exerted preventive efficacy against osteopenia, impaired bone microstructure, and poor bone and muscle quality. ZYJSW attenuated the imbalance in bone metabolism by promoting bone formation, as evidenced by the upregulation of key factors such as Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP2), Osteoprotegerin (OPG) and Osteocalcin (OCN), while simultaneously inhibiting bone resorption through the downregulation of TNF receptor associated factor 6 (TRAF6), Tartrate resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP), Receptor activator for nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) and Cathepsin K (CTSK). Additionally, ZYJSW enhanced muscle structure and function by counteracting the elevation of Ubiquitin (Ub), Muscle RING-finger protein-1 (Murf-1), F-Box Protein 32 (FBOX32), and Myogenin (Myog). Network pharmacology predictions, proteomics analysis corroborated by published literature demonstrated the role of ZYJSW involving in safeguarding mitochondrial biogenesis. This was achieved by suppressing GCN5L1 expression, contributing to the heightened expression of TFAM, PGC-1α, and nuclear respiratory factor-1 (NRF-1) proteins. ZYJSW also positively modulated Wnt signaling pathways responsible for bone formation, due to regulating expressions of key components like β-catenin, GSK-3β, and LRP5. In addition, ZYJSW causes the downregulation of the PI3K/Akt pathway by inhibiting the phosphorylation of both PI3K and Akt. Conclusions: The study highlights the significance of ZYJSW in preserving the health of both bone and muscle in P6 mice, potentially through the regulation of the GCN5L1-mediated PI3K/Akt/Wnt signaling pathway. The translational potential of this article: Our research provides evidence and a mechanistic rationale for ZYJSW as a candidate for SOP treatment, offering insights for further exploration and strategy development.

Abstract Background The cardiometabolic index (CMI) is a novel metric for assessing cardiometabolic health and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM), yet its relationship with insulin resistance (IR) and prediabetes (preDM) is not well-studied. There is also a gap in understanding the nonlinear associations between CMI and these conditions. Our study aimed to elucidate these associations. Methods We included 13,142 adults from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007–2020. CMI was calculated by multiplying the triglyceride-to-high density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) by waist-to-height ratio (WHtR). Using weighted multivariable linear and logistic regression explored the relationships of CMI with glucose metabolism markers, IR, preDM, and DM. Nonlinear associations were assessed using generalized additive models (GAM), smooth curve fittings, and two-piecewise logistic regression. Results Multivariate regression revealed positive correlations between CMI and glucose metabolic biomarkers, including FBG (β = 0.08, 95% CI: 0.06–0.10), HbA1c (β = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.22–0.31), FSI (β = 4.88, 95% CI: 4.23–5.54), and HOMA-IR (β = 1.85, 95% CI: 1.56–2.14). There were also significant correlations between CMI and increased risk of IR (OR = 3.51, 95% CI: 2.94–4.20), preDM (OR = 1.49, 95% CI: 1.29–1.71), and DM (OR = 2.22, 95% CI: 2.00-2.47). Inverse nonlinear L-shaped associations were found between CMI and IR, preDM, and DM, with saturation inflection points at 1.1, 1.45, and 1.6, respectively. Below these thresholds, increments in CMI significantly correlated with heightened risks of IR, preDM, and DM. Conclusions CMI exhibited inverse L-shaped nonlinear relationships with IR, preDM, and DM, suggesting that reducing CMI to a certain level might significantly prevent these conditions.

Abstract In this study, a feasibility of γ radiation detection using complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensors with a neural network algorithm to extract the γ rays interacted pixels has been investigated. The responses characteristics of the CMOS imaging sensor to γ-ray is studied by placed in a γ fields produced by standard60Co or137Cs isotope sources. The supported preview frame rate of the CMOS image sensor is 25 fps, establishing the functional relationship between the gray level histograms and the dose rate through the neural network, the high energy γ-ray from60Co and137Cs source radiation dose rate in µSv/h level can be detected using the CMOS imaging sensor. The results show that the proposed method can effectively identify the number of photon particles which detected by the radiation monitoring system based on CMOS image sensor, and infer that the CMOS imaging sensor with a radiation signal extraction algorithm can be used as a dose warner for radiation protection purpose.

Abstract PCOS is one of the most common endocrine disorders among women of reproductive age. While the mechanism involved is not yet fully characterized. Our study aims to examine the pregnancy outcomes of embryo transfers in women with PCOS after pretreatment, and to explore the possible effect of high androgen levels on endometrial receptivity. Retrospective cohort study was conducted to analyze pregnancy outcomes among 2714 infertile women with tubal factor and 452 PCOS women. Endometrium samples were collected from 6 controls and 6 PCOS patients to detect the expression of endometrial receptivity marks. The implantation rate, clinical and ongoing pregnancy rates and live birth rate in women with PCOS followed fresh embryo transfers were obviously decreased even after the pretreatment. Similar pregnancy outcomes were found in frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles between women with or without PCOS. Strikingly, serum total testosterone (TT) levels on trigger day were significantly higher in PCOS women. Women with high TT levels presented significantly lower clinical and ongoing pregnancy rates, and the expression of insulin-like growth factor binding protein 1 (IGFBP-1), and leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) in the endometria decreased significantly as well. High doses of testosterone significantly down-regulated the expression of IGFBP-1 and LIF in Ishikawa cells. Although endocrine abnormalities had been improved before the controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) cycle started, higher serum TT levels were detected on the trigger day of the COS cycle in PCOS patients, which may contribute to the decreased fresh embryo implantation by impairing endometrial receptivity.

The test capacity of hypersonic equipment is crucial to the development of hypersonic technology. However, the maximum Mach number simulated by conventional hypersonic wind tunnel is less than 10 currently due to the insufficient heater capacity. Considering the outstanding performance of arc heater in high-enthalpy wind tunnel, applying arc-heated high-enthalpy wind tunnel for conventional aerodynamic tests makes a breakthrough for increasing test Mach numbers. This paper presented the test of AGARD-B calibration model carried out in the arc-heated high-enthalpy wind tunnel of the China Academy of Aerospace Aerodynamics. The standard deviation of multiple repeated aerodynamic test results verified the self-consistency of test data and proved the stability of flow field. Accuracy of the test data was also certified through comparison and analysis with existing data from both foreign and domestic wind tunnels. This test demonstrated that the arc-heated high-enthalpy wind tunnel is fully capable of conducting aerodynamic tests at Mach 10.

Abstract Background Uterine Fibroids (UFs) are common benign tumors in the female reproductive tract, but their progression to intravascular leiomyomatosis (IVL) is rare. Presently, there are few reports on single-stage resection of UFs and IVL. Case presentation A 47-year-old woman, G2P2, had been diagnosed multiple UFs four years ago and now developed heart failure. Imaging examinations revealed that UFs had invaded the right iliac vein and extended into the right atrium through the inferior vena cava. Through multidisciplinary collaboration and a single-stage resection, the patient has survived for over 24 months post-surgery, and her heart function has significantly improved compared to preoperative levels, with no recurrence of UFs observed. Conclusions Single-stage resection of IVL and UF is feasible and advantageous for this case, and selecting the appropriate surgical approach is crucial.

The development of conductive coatings has significant implications for microelectronics and electrochemistry. However, conductive coatings may exhibit different electrochemical properties when prepared on different substrate materials. This research explores the comparative performance of graphene, graphene oxide (GO), and silver nanoparticle (Ag NP) composites as conductive coatings on diverse substrate materials, including polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), and glass. The study employed various preparation methods, such as mixing conductive materials with substrate materials and preparing copolymer composite materials. The conductive coating approach was found to be the most straightforward and convenient, with broader development prospects and fewer restrictive conditions. The results indicate that the distinct surface characteristics of the substrate materials influence the conductive properties of coating materials. Consequently, results show that graphene exhibits the highest conductivity on all three substrates, while GO is more conductive than Ag NPs on PMMA and PDMS but less conductive than Ag NPs on glass. That offers valuable insights into the selection of substrate materials and coating materials for the preparation of conductive materials.

Abstract Factor XII (FXII) is the zymogen of the plasma protease FXIIa that activates the intrinsic coagulation pathway and the kallikrein kinin-system. The role of FXII in inflammation has been obscure. Here, we report a single-domain antibody (nanobody, Nb) fused to the Fc region of a human immunoglobulin (Nb-Fc) that recognizes FXII in a conformation-dependent manner and interferes with FXIIa formation. Nb-Fc treatment inhibited arterial thrombosis in male mice without affecting hemostasis. In a mouse model of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), FXII inhibition or knockout reduced thrombus deposition on oxygenator membranes and systemic microvascular thrombi. ECMO increased circulating levels of D-dimer, alkaline phosphatase, creatinine and TNF-α and triggered microvascular neutrophil adherence, platelet aggregation and their interaction, which were substantially attenuated by FXII blockade. Both Nb-Fc treatment and FXII knockout markedly ameliorated immune complex-induced local vasculitis and anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-induced systemic vasculitis, consistent with selectively suppressed neutrophil migration. In human blood microfluidic analysis, Nb-Fc treatment prevented collagen-induced fibrin deposition and neutrophil adhesion/activation. Thus, FXII is an important mediator of inflammatory responses in vasculitis and ECMO, and Nb-Fc provides a promising approach to alleviate thrombo-inflammatory disorders.

The advent of 3D printing (3DP) has garnered significant interest from both academia and industry due to its potential to revolutionize engineering, manufacturing, and through its utilization of advanced materials. Even though the application of 3D printing in footwear design and manufacture is quite appreciated, academic discourse on the subject relative to footwear design and manufacture is rather scarce compared to other fields such as pharmaceuticals, electronics and food. The purpose of this review is to explore the techniques, the application trends and the impact of 3D printing technology concerning footwear design and manufacture. Using relevant data from many relevant sources, this study uncovered that 3D printing has significantly impacted shoe design and manufacture by enhancing production efficiency, environmental sustainability, material innovation and Inter-Industry Collaborative Projects among others. Most of the major players in the footwear industry such as Nike, Adidas, Reebok and New Balance already have many footwear releases based on 3D printing. Also discussed are some specific areas in which 3D printing is being applied in footwear design and manufacture. These areas include but are not limited to the design of smart shoes, shoe lasts, complex shoe geometries, avant-garde concept shoes and so on. This study is of particular importance to stakeholders in the footwear research and design industry as it provides important information about the current trends as well as the impact of 3D printing technology on the sector.

Abstract Background Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), and CVD is a major challenge for cancer patients. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and association of MetS and CVD among adult cancer patients. Methods This cross-sectional study included cancer patients aged > 18 years from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2007 to 2018. The prevalence of MetS and CVD was calculated using weighted analysis. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the association between MetS and CVD. Results The study included 2658 adult cancer patients, of whom 1260 exhibited MetS and 636 had CVD. The weighted prevalence of MetS and CVD in cancer patients was 45.44%, and 19.23%, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression showed a 79% increased risk in higher CVD prevalence in cancer patients with MetS, with the OR (95% CI) of 1.79 (1.31, 2.44). Notably, obesity, elevated blood pressure (BP), high glucose, and low high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in the MetS components were significantly associated with higher CVD prevalence after adjusting for covariates. Moreover, the risk of CVD prevalence in cancer patients increased with more MetS components. Notably, MetS was more strongly linked to CVD in patients aged

Abstract Background Monocytes and macrophages play an indispensable role in maintaining intestinal homeostasis and modulating mucosal immune responses in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Although numerous studies have described macrophage properties in IBD, the underlying mechanisms whereby the monocyte-macrophage lineage modulates intestinal homeostasis during gut inflammation remain elusive. Main body In this review, we decipher the cellular and molecular mechanisms governing the generation of intestinal mucosal macrophages and fill the knowledge gap in understanding the origin, maturation, classification, and functions of mucosal macrophages in intestinal niches, particularly the phagocytosis and bactericidal effects involved in the elimination of cell debris and pathogens. We delineate macrophage-mediated immunoregulation in the context of producing pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, toxic mediators, and macrophage extracellular traps (METs), and participating in the modulation of epithelial cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and fibrosis in the intestine and its accessory tissues. Moreover, we emphasize that the maturation of intestinal macrophages is arrested at immature stage during IBD, and the deficiency of MCPIP1 involves in the process via ATF3-AP1S2 signature. In addition, we confirmed the origin potential of IL-1B+ macrophages and defined C1QB+ macrophages as mature macrophages. The interaction crosstalk between the intestine and the mesentery has been described in this review, and the expression of mesentery-derived SAA2 is upregulated during IBD, which contributes to immunoregulation of macrophage. Moreover, we also highlight IBD-related susceptibility genes (e.g., RUNX3, IL21R, GTF2I, and LILRB3) associated with the maturation and functions of macrophage, which provide promising therapeutic opportunities for treating human IBD. Conclusion In summary, this review provides a comprehensive, comprehensive, in-depth and novel description of the characteristics and functions of macrophages in IBD, and highlights the important role of macrophages in the molecular and cellular process during IBD.

The test time of impulse tunnels is short, and the heat flux transducers can be easily interfered in the test time. Thus the aerothermal test data analysis of impulse tunnels is complex and usually carried out manually, which leads to low efficiency and nonuniform standards. In this paper, the signals of heat transducers used in the 1 m gun/shock dual-mode impulse tunnel at the China Academy of Aerospace Aerodynamics were investigated. A series of key parameters, e.g., the FFT voltage profile, the correlation profile of nozzle total pressure and transducer heat flux, as well as the time derivative of the heat flux profile, were determined. The characterization capabilities of these parameters with respect to significant features, e.g., the start/end time of the nozzle flow, the time boundary of different operation modes and the effectiveness of the transducer profiles, were certified. Moreover, a profile effectiveness estimation model, a test time interval selection algorithm and a transducer valid time selection algorithm were developed based on convolutional neural networks and density-based clustering algorithms. Thereby the aerothermal test data of impulse tunnels can be analyzed automatically with these data-driven methods. The results show that the accuracy of the profile effectiveness estimation model is as high as 98%. According to the comparison between algorithm and manual results in dealing with 3 568 profiles, about 91% of the results show a difference of less than 10%, which implies that the data-driven method has the value of application to wind tunnel tests.

Abstract Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a devastating cancer with dismal prognosis due to distant metastasis, even in the early stage. Using RNA sequencing and multiplex immunofluorescence, here we find elevated expression of mixed lineage kinase domain-like pseudo-kinase (MLKL) and enhanced necroptosis pathway in PDAC from early liver metastasis T-stage (T1M1) patients comparing with non-metastatic (T1M0) patients. Mechanistically, MLKL-driven necroptosis recruits macrophages, enhances the tumor CD47 ‘don’t eat me’ signal, and induces macrophage extracellular traps (MET) formation for CXCL8 activation. CXCL8 further initiates epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and upregulates ICAM-1 expression to promote endothelial adhesion. METs also degrades extracellular matrix, that eventually supports PDAC liver metastasis. Meanwhile, targeting necroptosis and CD47 reduces liver metastasis in vivo. Our study thus reveals that necroptosis facilitates PDAC metastasis by evading immune surveillance, and also suggest that CD47 blockade, combined with MLKL inhibitor GW806742X, may be a promising neoadjuvant immunotherapy for overcoming the T1M1 dilemma and reviving the opportunity for radical surgery.

ABSTRACT Surfactin, a lipopeptide biosurfactant produced by Bacillus spp., has emerged as a promising bioactive compound due to its potent inhibitory effects on bacterial and viral pathogens. This showcases its potential as a non-antibiotic strategy for managing infectious diseases. Our investigation reveals that surfactin administration significantly promotes weight gain and improves immune organ indices in mice, reflecting enhanced immunity and gut health. Surfactin augments phagocytic function in peritoneal macrophages and boosts proliferative responses in splenic lymphocytes post-chicken red blood cell immunization. Furthermore, it increases intestinal villi height, indicative of superior nutrient absorption. It elevates mucin secretion and expression of intestinal mucosal proteins, such as secretory IgA, Muc1, and Muc2, and tight junction proteins claudin-1, occludin, and Zo-1 in the jejunum and colon. Crucially, surfactin modifies the gut microbiota composition by reducing Escherichia coli populations and ameliorating cyclophosphamide-induced gut dysbiosis. Our data suggest that oral surfactin could be a valuable therapeutic modality to alleviate immune suppression and gut damage, proposing a new pathway for immunomodulatory treatment.IMPORTANCEThe potential of surfactin as a microbial surfactant extends beyond its surfactant properties, impacting immune regulation and gut health. As the need for alternatives to traditional antibiotics continues to grow, surfactin’s ability to enhance host defense mechanisms against common pathogens without directly targeting them with antibiotics offers a strategic advantage. Understanding how surfactin shapes the immune landscape and the gut microbiome can inform innovative interventions against immunosuppression and intestinal impairment, particularly in contexts such as cyclophosphamide-induced toxicity.

BackgroundHaoqin Qingdan decoction (HQQD), composed of eleven herbs, is a traditional Chinese formula widely recognized for its efficacy in treating pulmonary inflammation induced by viral infections. Despite its extensive use, the potential pulmonary and intestinal protective effects of HQQD on influenza viral pneumonia (IVP) and the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear.Materials and MethodsUltra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS) was employed to identify the major chemical constituents of the prescription. Subsequently, network analysis was conducted to predict the potential therapeutic targets of HQQD in IVP. The mechanisms by which HQQD mitigates lung and intestinal damage were further elucidated by assessing NP protein expression, inflammatory factors, TLR7/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway mRNAs and proteins, and through intestinal flora analysis.ResultsThe protective effects of HQQD on pulmonary and intestinal injuries induced by IVP were thoroughly investigated using comprehensive network analysis, signaling pathway validation, and gut microflora analysis. UHPLC-MS analysis identified the primary chemical constituents. Validation experiments demonstrated a significant reduction in NP protein expression in the lungs. HQQD notably alleviated immune damage in the lungs and intestines of mice by inhibiting NP protein expression and the release of inflammatory factors such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ); downregulating the expression levels of TLR7, MyD88, and phospho-NF-κB p65 (p-p65); lowering serum LPS levels; and reducing the relative abundance of Proteobacteria.ConclusionHQQD exerts therapeutic effects against influenza viral pneumonia through antiviral and anti-inflammatory mechanisms and by remodeling the intestinal flora. This study provides initial insights into the “gut-lung” axis mechanism of HQQD in combating respiratory influenza virus infection.

We report on the first measurement of the elemental fragmentation cross sections (EFCSs) of Si29−33 on a carbon target at ∼230 MeV/nucleon. The experimental data covering charge changes of ΔZ = 1-4 are reproduced well by the isospin-dependent quantum molecular dynamics (IQMD) coupled with the evaporation GEMINI (IQMD+GEMINI) model. We further explore the mechanisms underlying the single-proton removal reaction in this model framework. We conclude that the cross sections from direct proton knockout exhibit an overall weak dependence on the mass number of Si projectiles. The proton evaporation induced after the projectile excitation significantly affects the cross sections for neutron-deficient Si isotopes, while neutron evaporation plays a crucial role in the reactions of neutron-rich Si isotopes. It is presented that the relative magnitude of one-proton and one-neutron separation energies is an essential factor that influences evaporation processes. Therefore, proton evaporation should be incorporated into the reaction model in addition to the direct proton knockout in analyses of Gade-Tostevin systematic for single-proton removal reactions.

As a feed additive, Benzoic Acid (BA) has been demonstrated to significantly enhance feed conversion efficiency, regulate gastrointestinal pH, and improve overall animal health. Young animals, highly susceptible to S. Typhimurium infection, suffer from high mortality rates and substantial economic losses due to this pathogen. Despite promising indications of BA's immunomodulatory potential in boosting intestinal immunity, its underlying mechanisms remain insufficiently understood. This study investigates how BA strengthens intestinal anti-infection defenses in young animals via immunomodulatory pathways, focusing on its impact on macrophage polarization and IgA-mediated immune responses. Employing in vitro cell experiments and animal models, we examined the macrophage phenotypic alterations following BA treatment. We assessed the expression of immune-related genes in the intestine through immunofluorescence staining, Western blotting, and quantitative real-time PCR. The results demonstrate that BA promotes M2 macrophage polarization by activating the mTOR/PPAR-γ/STAT3 signaling pathways. Furthermore, BA enhances the intestinal expression of the polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (PIgR), B-cell activating factor (BAFF) from the TNF family, and activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID), thereby enhancing IgA production by B-cells. These results underscore the potential of BA to bolster innate immune functions in young chickens, mitigate intestinal damage caused by S. Typhimurium infection, and ultimately promote both animal health and food safety.

Background To compare the impact of tunneled cuffed catheters (TCCs) and arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) on outcomes in elderly hemodialysis (HD) patients.Methods A retrospective matched cohort study was performed. Propensity score matching (PSM) was applied to balance the baseline conditions, and we compared all-cause mortality, major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs), hospitalization, and infection rates between AVF and TCC patients ≥70 years old. Cox survival analysis was used to analyze the risk factors for death.Results There were 2119 patients from our center in the Chinese National Renal Data System (CNRDS) between 1 January 2010 and 10 October 2023. Among these patients, 77 TCC patients were matched with 77 AVF patients. There was no significant difference in all-cause mortality between the TCC and AVF groups (30.1/100 vs. 33.3/100 patient-years, p = 0.124). Among the propensity score-matched cohorts, no significant differences in Kaplan–Meier curves were observed between the two groups (log-rank p = 0.242). The TCC group had higher rates of MACCEs, hospitalization, and infection than the AVF group (33.7/100 vs. 29.5/100 patient-years, 101.2/100 vs. 79.5/100 patient-years, and 30.1/100 vs. 14.1/100 patient-years, respectively). Multivariate analysis showed that high Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) score was a risk factor for death.Conclusions There was no significant difference in all-cause mortality between elderly HD patients receiving TCCs and AVFs. Compared with those with a TCC, elderly HD patients with an AVF have a lower risk of MACCEs, hospitalization, and infection.

Vehicle Routing Problem with Uncertain Demands (VRPUD) is one of the research hotspots in the field of logistics scheduling. In this paper, a Discrete Jaya (DJaya) algorithm is presented for the VRPUD to minimize the total cost. A novel dividing-point-based coding scheme is designed to represent solutions with higher robustness. In addition, an efficient repair strategy is embedded into the decoding process to avoid the failure of producing feasible solutions. The best and worst solutions are employed to generate offspring solutions in DJaya. Several efficient local search methods are also presented to enhance the exploitation ability and increase the diversity of solutions. Based on the benchmark data sets of the VRPUD, numerical simulations are carried out for the proposed DJaya algorithm with uncertain demands. Computational results and comparisons with the state-of-the-art algorithms demonstrate the superiority of the proposed algorithm in solving VRPUD.

Halobenzoquinones (HBQs) are ubiquitous disinfection by-products (DBPs) in chlorinated drinking water with various health risks including reproductive toxicity, while the potential mechanisms are still unclear. Although green tea exhibits common detoxifying properties, its ability to mitigate the toxicity of HBQs still needs to be further deepened and explored. This study attempted to investigate the possible mechanism of the most common HBQ, 2,6-dichloro-1,4-benzoquinone (2,6-DCBQ) induced reproductive toxicity and elucidate the protective effect of green tea using a series of liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS) approaches. Firstly, in vivo experiments showed that 2,6-DCBQ could induce testicular damage in male rats via significantly decreasing sperm-associated Leydig cells and seminiferous tubules. Then, in vitro incubation of 2,6-DCBQ with amino acids suggested that 2,6-DCBQ could bind to proteins via residues of cysteine or lysine and provided five additional modification patterns. Following, proteomics analysis revealed that at least 42 proteins were modified by 2,6-DCBQ, which were mainly enriched in the reproductive system. These results highlighted the significance of covalent protein modification in 2,6-DCBQ reproductive toxicity. Fortunately, we found that catechins (a class of major components of green tea) could competitively bind to 2,6-DCBQ in vivo and in vitro, reducing the amount and type of 2,6-DCBQ-protein adducts, thereby attenuating the reproductive system damage caused by 2,6-DCBQ. This study provides new insights into 2,6-DCBQ-induced reproductive system damage and reveals a new mechanism of green tea detoxification. Moreover, these findings offer potential strategies for alleviating the harmful impacts of environmental toxicants on human health.

IntroductionImmunogenic cell death (ICD) is capable of activating the anti-tumor immune response of the organism; however, it is concurrently a complex process involving multiple factors. The specific factors that impact the occurrence of ICD remain undefined.MethodsThrough cluster analysis, patient specimens retrieved from the TARGET, TCGA, and GEO AML databases were categorized into two subtypes based on the expression levels of ICD-related genes: ICD-high and ICD-low. We compared the prognostic survival outcomes, pathway enrichment analysis, and immune cell infiltration between these two subtypes. Additionally, we identified factors related to AML development from multiple databases and verified the role of these factors both in vivo and in vitro in activating the immune response during the occurrence of ICD. Results and discussionIn the ICD-high subtype, there was a notable increase in the abundance of immune cell populations, along with the enrichment of pathways pertinent to the activation of various immune cells. Despite these immunological enhancements, this subgroup demonstrated a poorer prognosis. This phenomenon was consistently observed across various additional AML datasets, leading us to hypothesize that elevated expression of ICD genes does not invariably correlate with a favorable prognosis. Notably, STK10 exhibited elevated expression in AML, was associated with a poor prognosis, and showed synchronous expression patterns with ICD genes. Inhibition of STK10 led to the activation of ICD and the induction of an antitumor response. Moreover, when combined with other ICD inducers, it produced a synergistic anti-tumor effect. Our results reveal the impact of STK10 on ICD and underscore its key role in initiating ICD.

Incorporating authentic tactile interactions into virtual environments presents a notable challenge for the emerging development of soft robotic metamaterials. In this study, a vision‐based approach is introduced to learning proprioceptive interactions by simultaneously reconstructing the shape and touch of a soft robotic metamaterial (SRM) during physical engagements. The SRM design is optimized to the size of a finger with enhanced adaptability in 3D interactions while incorporating a see‐through viewing field inside, which can be visually captured by a miniature camera underneath to provide a rich set of image features for touch digitization. Employing constrained geometric optimization, the proprioceptive process with aggregated multi‐handles is modeled. This approach facilitates real‐time, precise, and realistic estimations of the finger's mesh deformation within a virtual environment. Herein, a data‐driven learning model is also proposed to estimate touch positions, achieving reliable results with impressive R2 scores of 0.9681, 0.9415, and 0.9541 along the x, y, and z axes. Furthermore, the robust performance of the proposed methods in touch‐based human–cybernetic interfaces and human–robot collaborative grasping is demonstrated. In this study, the door is opened to future applications in touch‐based digital twin interactions through vision‐based soft proprioception.

Abstract Aims Portal venous pressure frequently increases after a major hepatectomy. We aimed to assess the outcomes of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with different post‐hepatectomy portal pressure statuses and the predictive factors correlated with prognosis and post‐hepatectomy portal hypertension (PHPH). Methods Data from consecutive patients who underwent curative‐intent hepatectomy for HCC at the Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital and Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University between January 2008 and December 2016 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were followed up until March 1, 2022. PHPH was defined as new‐onset portal hypertension (PH) in patients without preoperative PH within 1 month of hepatectomy. Patients were classified into two groups according to the presence or absence of PHPH: non‐PH and PHPH. The clinicopathological characteristics were compared between the two groups. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify independent risk factors for early and late recurrence of HCC, overall survival (OS), and PHPH. Results Disease‐free survival rates were significantly higher in the non‐PH group (n = 1068) than those in the PHPH group (n = 423) (62.0%, 39.0%, and 31.0% vs. 46.2%, 24.5%, and 19.3% at 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively; all p 40 U/L, and major hepatectomy were identified as independent risk factors for PHPH. Conclusions PHPH was associated with early recurrence of HCC and poor OS but not with late recurrence. Therefore, PHPH may be an attractive target for therapeutic interventions and follow‐up surveillance to improve prognosis.