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Background: Circular RNA (circRNA) and extracellular vesicles (EVs) in tumors are crucial for the malignant phenotype of tumor cells. Nevertheless, the mechanisms and clinical effects of EV-delivered hsa_circ_0090081 in gastric cancer (GC) are unclear. This study aimed to reveal the effect of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4A3 (EIF4A3)-mediated hsa_circ_0090081 expression and EV-delivered hsa_circ_0090081 on GC progression. Methods: qRT-PCR was conducted to clarify hsa_circ_0090081 and EIF4A3 levels in GC tissues. Transmission electronic microscopy (TEM), nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), and Western blotting identified the EVs isolated from GC cells by ultracentrifugation. The roles of hsa_circ_0090081, EIF4A3, and EV-delivered hsa_circ_0090081 in GC cells were analyzed using Transwell, EdU, and CCK-8 assays. The regulatory role between EIF4A3 and hsa_circ_0090081 was investigated using RIP, qRT-PCR, and Pearson's analysis. Results: Our study showed that hsa_circ_0090081 and EIF4A3 were highly expressed in GC, and hsa_circ_0090081 was associated with poor prognosis. Data revealed that hsa_circ_0090081 inhibition restrained GC cell proliferation, invasion, and migration. Additionally, EIF4A3 could bind to the pre-mRNA of PHEX (linear form of hsa_circ_0090081) to enhance hsa_circ_0090081 expression in GC cells. Moreover, EIF4A3 overexpression nullified the malignant phenotypic suppression caused by hsa_circ_0090081 silencing in GC cells. Furthermore, EVs secreted by GC cells delivered hsa_circ_0090081 to facilitate the malignant progression of targeted GC cells. Conclusion: This study showed that hsa_circ_0090081 was enhanced by EIF4A3 to play a promotive role in GC development. The results may help understand the mechanism of EIF4A3 and EV-delivered hsa_circ_0090081 and offer a valuable GC therapeutic target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disease that could produce severe complications threatening life. Its early detection is thus quite important for the timely prevention and treatment. Normally, fasting blood glucose (FBG) by physical examination is used for large-scale screening of DM; however, some people with normal fasting glucose (NFG) actually have suffered from diabetes but are missed by the examination. This study aimed to investigate whether common physical examination indexes for diabetes can be used to identify the diabetes individuals from the populations with NFG. Methods: The physical examination data from over 60,000 individuals with NFG in three Chinese cohorts were used. The diabetes patients were defined by HbA1c ≥ 48 mmol/mol (6.5%). We constructed the models using multiple machine learning methods, including logistic regression, random forest, deep neural network, and support vector machine, and selected the optimal one on the validation set. A framework using permutation feature importance algorithm was devised to discover the personalized risk factors. Results: The prediction model constructed by logistic regression achieved the best performance with an AUC, sensitivity, and specificity of 0.899, 85.0%, and 81.1% on the validation set and 0.872, 77.9%, and 81.0% on the test set, respectively. Following feature selection, the final classifier only requiring 13 features, named as DRING (diabetes risk of individuals with normal fasting glucose), exhibited reliable performance on two newly recruited independent datasets, with the AUC of 0.964 and 0.899, the balanced accuracy of 84.2% and 81.1%, the sensitivity of 100% and 76.2%, and the specificity of 68.3% and 86.0%, respectively. The feature importance ranking analysis revealed that BMI, age, sex, absolute lymphocyte count, and mean corpuscular volume are important factors for the risk stratification of diabetes. With a case, the framework for identifying personalized risk factors revealed FBG, age, and BMI as significant hazard factors that contribute to an increased incidence of diabetes. DRING webserver is available for ease of application (http://www.cuilab.cn/dring). Conclusions: DRING was demonstrated to perform well on identifying the diabetes individuals among populations with NFG, which could aid in early diagnosis and interventions for those individuals who are most likely missed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micro-Doppler (m-D) analysis is the most effective mechanism for detecting rotating targets or components; however, it fails when the target rotation plane is perpendicular to the radar line of sight (LOS). The vortex electromagnetic wave (VEMW) provides a unconventional structure of wavefront phase modulation on the cross-plane of the radar LOS, on which the radial m-D vanishes while the rotational Doppler (RD) appears. In the absence of the position of rotation center, this paper focuses on the micromotion parameters estimation based on RD effect for rotating target, and then proposes an estimation procedure, referred to as the two-step method. The micromotion parameters of the rotating target include the rotation attitude, the rotation radius and the position of the rotation center while the latter is coupled to the former two. Firstly, the micromotion parameters are roughly estimated based on the RD curve parameters obtained from the time-frequency (TF) spectrum of the received signal. Secondly, the maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) is used to accurately estimate the micromotion parameters. In addition, the Cramér–Rao bound (CRB) of parameter estimation is derived. The simulation studies the influencing factors of estimation performance and verifies that the proposed estimation method can provide excellent estimation accuracy of the micromotion parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Neuroplasticity can partially compensate for the neurological deficits caused by brain tumors. However, the structural plasticity of the brain caused by brain tumors is not fully understood. This study aimed to assess the structural plasticity of the contralesional hemisphere in patients with frontal low-grade gliomas (LGGs). Methods: A total of 25 patients with left frontal LGGs (LFLGGs), 19 patients with right frontal LGGs (RFLGGs), and 25 healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled in this study. High-resolution structural T1-weighted imaging and fluid attenuation inversion recovery were performed on all participants. Voxel-based morphometry (VBM) analysis was used to detect differences in the brain structural plasticity between patients with unilateral LGGs and HCs. Results: VBM analysis revealed that compared with HCs, the gray matter volume (GMV) of the contralesional putamen and amygdala was significantly smaller and larger in the patients with RFLGGs and LFLGGs, respectively, while the GMVs of the contralesional cuneus and superior temporal gyrus (STG) were significantly larger in the patients with LFLGGs. The surviving clusters of the right hemisphere included 1357 voxels in the amygdala, 1680 voxels in the cuneus, 384 voxels in the STG, and 410 voxels in the putamen. The surviving clusters of the left hemisphere were 522 voxels in the amygdala and 320 voxels in the putamen. Conclusion: The unilateral frontal LGGs are accompanied by structural plasticity in the contralesional cortex and vary with tumor laterality. Contralesional structural reorganization may be one of the physiological basis for functional reorganization or compensation in the frontal LGGs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve the ride comfort of wheeled armored vehicles, air springs are used. To describe the vehicle motion more accurately, a nine-degree-of-freedom air suspension system for the whole vehicle was established, and its equations of motion were derived. Through theoretical analysis of the stiffness characteristics and forces on the air springs, the nonlinear restoring force was obtained as a cubic polynomial of the air spring displacement. The simulation results obtained by fitting the polynomial and radial basis function curves with MATLAB/Simulink software are consistent with the actual test results, thus verifying the correctness of the nonlinear air spring polynomial model. Finally, a fuzzy fractional order PIλDμ controller is designed and simulated for the vehicle-seat-body model in terms of wheel dynamic load, suspension dynamic deflection, body acceleration, and other indicators. The simulation results show that the fuzzy fractional order PIλDμ Proportion Integral Differential (PID) control strategy has better overall performance than the PID control strategy, fuzzy control strategy, and fuzzy PID control strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production and application of organophosphate esters (OPEs) have dramatically increased in recent years due to their use as a replacement for brominated flame retardants. In this study, 13 OPEs (Σ 13 OPEs) were analyzed in indoor air samples from kitchens and living rooms in 14 residential homes in Beijing, China. The concentrations of Σ 13 OPEs in kitchen air samples (mean: 13 ng/m3) were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than in living room air samples (5.0 ng/m3). In addition, paired window surface organic film samples were collected and analyzed to investigate film-air partitioning, exhibiting a mean concentration of Σ 13 OPEs of 4100 ng/m2. The congener profiles showed that tris(2-chloroisopropyl) phosphate (TCPP) was the predominant compound in both window film samples (48%) and the corresponding indoor air sample (56%). The estimated daily intakes (EDI) of OPEs via indoor air inhalation were 2.8 and 1.4 ng/kg/day for infants and adults, respectively, both of which are below the reference dose values (RfDs). Overall, these findings indicate that OPEs in the indoor air environment of residential homes in Beijing are not likely to pose a health risk to the general population. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to describe the characteristics of superficial desmoid fibromatosis (DF) using two-dimensional and contrast-enhanced ultrasonography, intending to improve diagnostic accuracy. We retrospectively analyzed 19 cases of superficial DF confirmed by surgery or core-needle biopsy in our hospital from January 2018 to August 2020. All patients underwent two-dimensional and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) examination. Nineteen patients included 15 women and 4 men, with an average age of 33.37±12.13 years old. The mean size of lesions was 4.78±1.99 cm. On ultrasound, all lesions presented as solitary heterogeneous hypoechoic masses; 13 presented with ill-defined margins. Ten lesions (52.63%) presented with fusiform shapes, and 11 lesions (57.89%) presented with the "fascial tail" sign. CEUS suggested the tumors were hyperenhanced, with an enhanced pattern of rapid wash-in and slow wash-out. Four lesions (21.05%) showed an enlarged scope in the CEUS image compared with the grayscale ultrasound image. In conclusion, an ill-defined heterogeneous hyperechoic appearance with fusiform-shaped and "fascial tail" signs on US and heterogeneous hyperenhancement with an enlarged scope on CEUS are valuable clues in the diagnosis and treatment of superficial DF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regional green energy technological innovation is an important means to alleviate economic–environmental contradictions. The purpose of this study was to explore the mechanisms of green finance, financial technology, and regional green energy technological innovation. In this study, we constructed dual machine learning models, spatial econometric models, and panel threshold effect models to investigate the effects of green finance and financial technology on regional green energy technological innovation, using panel data from 266 cities nationwide from 2009 to 2021. The research findings are as follows: (1) Both green finance and financial technology significantly promote regional green energy technological innovation. (2) Based on a spatial weight matrix embedded in economic geography, both green finance and financial technology generate positive spatial spillover effects on regional green energy technological innovation. (3) The interaction between green finance and financial technology significantly contributes to regional green energy technological innovation. Financial technology can strengthen the positive local and neighboring effects of green finance on regional green energy technological innovation. (4) Based on the threshold effect of financial technology, green finance cannot significantly promote regional green energy technological innovation when financial technology is in an underdeveloped stage. With the advancement of financial technology, green finance continues to have a positive impact on regional green energy technological innovation. Based on this analysis and our conclusions, we propose practical policy recommendations that can provide a more sustainable approach to green energy technology innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, an ultra-broadband and polarization-insensitive metamaterial absorber (MA) with high optical transparency is presented. Indium-tin-oxide (ITO) films are used as frequency selective surfaces in multiple conductive layers and also as the reflective backplane. Numerical simulation analysis demonstrates that the absorptivity of the proposed absorber exceeds 90% in the frequency range from 10 to 75.5 GHz, corresponding to a relative absorption bandwidth of 153%. The proposed structure has a total thickness of 2.9 mm, which is approximately 1/10 of the free space wavelength of its lowest operating frequency. The absorber also has good polarization insensitivity due to its symmetric geometry. Moreover, for TE-polarized waves, the proposed absorber can maintain an absorptivity greater than 70% for frequencies ranging from 10 to 80 GHz as the incident angle is increased to 45°. For TM-polarized waves, it provides absorptivity of more than 80% at incident angles up to 60°. Surface current distribution on each conductive ITO layer was simulated to analyze the absorption mechanism of the MA. A prototype composed of 16 × 16 unit cells was fabricated and the experimental results show a good agreement with the numerical simulations. Due to its ultra-wideband absorption and wide-incident-angle stability, the proposed MA has potential value in electromagnetic applications such as optically transparent EM shielding and microwave radiation protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Gliomas are the most common primary brain tumor. Currently, topological alterations of whole-brain functional network caused by gliomas are not fully understood. The work here clarified the topological reorganization of the functional network in patients with unilateral frontal low-grade gliomas (LGGs).A total of 45 patients with left frontal LGGs, 19 with right frontal LGGs, and 25 healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled. All the resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI) images of the subjects were preprocessed to construct the functional network matrix, which was used for graph theoretical analysis. A two-sample t-test was conducted to clarify the differences in global and nodal network metrics between patients and HCs. A network-based statistic approach was used to identify the altered specific pairs of regions in which functional connectivity in patients with LGGs.The local efficiency, clustering coefficient, characteristic path length, and normalized characteristic path length of patients with unilateral frontal LGGs were significantly lower than HCs, while there were no significant differences of global efficiency and small-worldness between patients and HCs. Compared with the HCs, betweenness centrality, degree centrality, and nodal efficiency of several brain nodes were changed significantly in patients. Around the tumor and its adjacent areas, the inter- and intra-hemispheric connections were significantly decreased in patients with left frontal LGGs.The patients with unilateral frontal LGGs have altered global and nodal network metrics and decreased inter- and intra-hemispheric connectivity. These topological alterations may be involved in functional impairment and compensation of patients.Methods: Gliomas are the most common primary brain tumor. Currently, topological alterations of whole-brain functional network caused by gliomas are not fully understood. The work here clarified the topological reorganization of the functional network in patients with unilateral frontal low-grade gliomas (LGGs).A total of 45 patients with left frontal LGGs, 19 with right frontal LGGs, and 25 healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled. All the resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI) images of the subjects were preprocessed to construct the functional network matrix, which was used for graph theoretical analysis. A two-sample t-test was conducted to clarify the differences in global and nodal network metrics between patients and HCs. A network-based statistic approach was used to identify the altered specific pairs of regions in which functional connectivity in patients with LGGs.The local efficiency, clustering coefficient, characteristic path length, and normalized characteristic path length of patients with unilateral frontal LGGs were significantly lower than HCs, while there were no significant differences of global efficiency and small-worldness between patients and HCs. Compared with the HCs, betweenness centrality, degree centrality, and nodal efficiency of several brain nodes were changed significantly in patients. Around the tumor and its adjacent areas, the inter- and intra-hemispheric connections were significantly decreased in patients with left frontal LGGs.The patients with unilateral frontal LGGs have altered global and nodal network metrics and decreased inter- and intra-hemispheric connectivity. These topological alterations may be involved in functional impairment and compensation of patients.Results: Gliomas are the most common primary brain tumor. Currently, topological alterations of whole-brain functional network caused by gliomas are not fully understood. The work here clarified the topological reorganization of the functional network in patients with unilateral frontal low-grade gliomas (LGGs).A total of 45 patients with left frontal LGGs, 19 with right frontal LGGs, and 25 healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled. All the resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI) images of the subjects were preprocessed to construct the functional network matrix, which was used for graph theoretical analysis. A two-sample t-test was conducted to clarify the differences in global and nodal network metrics between patients and HCs. A network-based statistic approach was used to identify the altered specific pairs of regions in which functional connectivity in patients with LGGs.The local efficiency, clustering coefficient, characteristic path length, and normalized characteristic path length of patients with unilateral frontal LGGs were significantly lower than HCs, while there were no significant differences of global efficiency and small-worldness between patients and HCs. Compared with the HCs, betweenness centrality, degree centrality, and nodal efficiency of several brain nodes were changed significantly in patients. Around the tumor and its adjacent areas, the inter- and intra-hemispheric connections were significantly decreased in patients with left frontal LGGs.The patients with unilateral frontal LGGs have altered global and nodal network metrics and decreased inter- and intra-hemispheric connectivity. These topological alterations may be involved in functional impairment and compensation of patients.Conclusion: Gliomas are the most common primary brain tumor. Currently, topological alterations of whole-brain functional network caused by gliomas are not fully understood. The work here clarified the topological reorganization of the functional network in patients with unilateral frontal low-grade gliomas (LGGs).A total of 45 patients with left frontal LGGs, 19 with right frontal LGGs, and 25 healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled. All the resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI) images of the subjects were preprocessed to construct the functional network matrix, which was used for graph theoretical analysis. A two-sample t-test was conducted to clarify the differences in global and nodal network metrics between patients and HCs. A network-based statistic approach was used to identify the altered specific pairs of regions in which functional connectivity in patients with LGGs.The local efficiency, clustering coefficient, characteristic path length, and normalized characteristic path length of patients with unilateral frontal LGGs were significantly lower than HCs, while there were no significant differences of global efficiency and small-worldness between patients and HCs. Compared with the HCs, betweenness centrality, degree centrality, and nodal efficiency of several brain nodes were changed significantly in patients. Around the tumor and its adjacent areas, the inter- and intra-hemispheric connections were significantly decreased in patients with left frontal LGGs.The patients with unilateral frontal LGGs have altered global and nodal network metrics and decreased inter- and intra-hemispheric connectivity. These topological alterations may be involved in functional impairment and compensation of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quality of chiral environment (i.e. catalytic pocket) is directly related to the performance of chiral catalysts. The existing methods need super computing power and time, i.e., it is difficult to quickly judge the interaction between chiral catalysts and substrates for accurately evaluating the effects of chiral catalytic pockets. In this paper, for the 3D isosurface point clouds of molecular electrostatic potential, by using computer simulations, we propose a robust method to detect interacted points, and then accurately have the corresponding interacted volumes. First, by using the existing marching cubes algorithm, we construct the 3D models with triangular surface for isosurface point clouds of molecular electrostatic potentials. Second, by using our improved hierarchical bounding boxes algorithm, we significantly filter out most redundant non-collision points. Third, by using the normal vectors of the remaining points and related triangles, we robustly determine the interacted points to construct interacted sets. And finally, by combining the classical slicing with our multi-contour segmenting, we accurately calculate the interacted volumes. Over three groups of the point clouds of the chemical molecules, experimental results show that our method effectively removes the non-interacted points at average rates of 71.65%, 77.76%, and 71.82%, and calculates the interacted volumes with the average relative errors of 1.7%, 1.6%, and 1.9%, respectively. [Display omitted] • We calculate the interacted volumes for computing the catalytic pocket positions. • Hierarchical bounding boxes can filter out a large number of non-interacted points. • We accurately calculate the interacted volumes by slicing and multi-contour segmentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper develops a four-degree-of-freedom dynamics model with fractional order based on an anti-roll connected hydro-pneumatic suspension of a four-axle vehicle. A comprehensive evaluation function determines the optimal order. The effects of the excitation parameters and the suspension's internal parameters on the system's nonlinear dynamics are investigated under sinusoidal superimposed white noise excitation. According to the simulation analysis, the system gradually stabilizes as the excitation amplitude and frequency increase. The flow coefficient variation does not affect the system. The initial pressure shows the system's chaotic and transient periodic motion in the study interval. By establishing a double power convergence sliding film variable structure controller to control the suspension, the chaos is effectively suppressed by comparing the before and after control. • In order to express the stiffness and damping force of hydro-pneumatic spring more accurately, a four-degree-of-freedom dynamic model with fractional order is established in this paper, and the best order is determined by comprehensive evaluation function. • The effects of excitation amplitude and frequency, flow coefficient and initial pressure on the motion state of the system are analyzed by means of nonlinear dynamics. • A dual-power convergent sliding mode variable structure controller is established to control the suspension and effectively suppress the chaotic vibration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mining disturbance is an important influencing factor for the failure of roadway surrounding rock. In general, a main roadway is less affected by the advance mining of a working face. The failure of a main roadway surrounding rock becomes severe when it is affected by double-sided mining. This study explores and analyzes the structural characteristics of a west area main roadway surrounding rock to improve the stability of the main roadway surrounding rock in an area affected by severe stress from double-sided mining. Subsequently, the stress field superposition effect and failure law of a main roadway surrounding rock when the working faces on both sides face the same mining are proposed through numerical analysis with FLAC3D. On this basis, the space trinity control technology of "Key strata + Key part + Key area" is suggested, and the control effect of the main roadway surrounding rock is tested at the end. Results show that the approximate 0-3 m range of the main roadway roof is the key strata controlled by the main roadway roof. When the main roadway is affected by driving, single-sided mining, and double-sided mining, the surrounding rock stress increases gradually, and the horizontal stress increase is much larger than the vertical stress increase. Maximum horizontal stress and maximum vertical stress concentration factors are 3.8 and 2.6, respectively. When transitioning from single-sided to double-sided mining, the plastic zone at two corners of the roof and floor of the main roadway expands gradually to the middle until the shallow portion is completely destroyed. With the interleaving of the two working faces, the expanded plastic zone of the roof extends axially to the range of approximately ± 150 m from the main roadway, and the floor is within the range of ± 50 m. The plastic zones of the two sides are small. The test roadway remains stable until the mining of both working faces is complete. This study can provide a theoretical reference for the stability control of main roadway surrounding rock under the influence of mining. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • A mixed strategy game-based malicious nodes detection is proposed. • A data fusion method NetF is proposed to fuse data obtained from different networks. • An excellent performance is shown by NetF in experiments. • Our algorithm can plan the best defense strategy to nodes at different times. Abstract Advanced persistent threats (APTs) pose a grave threat in cyberspace because of their long latency and concealment. In this paper, we propose a hybrid strategy game-based dynamic defense model to optimally allocate constrained secure resources for the target network. In addition, values of profits of players in this game are computed by a novel data-fusion method called NetF. Based on network protocols and log documents, the NetF deciphers data packets collected from different networks to natural language to make them comparable. Using this algorithm, data observed from the Internet and wireless sensor networks (WSNs) can be fused to calculate the comprehensive payoff of every node precisely. The Nash equilibrium can be computed using the value to detect the possibility of a node being a malicious node. Using this method, the dynamic optimal defense strategy can be allocated to every node at different times, which enhances the security of the target network obviously. In experiments, we illustrate the obtained results via case studies of a cluster of heterogeneous networks. The results guide planning of optimal defense strategies for different kinds of nodes at different times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to explore and make an understanding of absorption existed in children with intracapsular fractures. The sample was composed of all children (less than 12 years) who presented with intracapsular fractures within a 5-year period (January 2011 to April 2016). Data about age, gender, date of injury, dates of admission and discharge, transfer and/or referral by other clinics or local facilities, mechanism of trauma, location and pattern of fracture, associated injuries, centimeter of mouth opening, treatment methods, image date of pre- and post-treatment (including time of review), position of condylar head in pre-treatment or post-treatment, and absorption of condylar head in pre-treatment or post-treatment were recorded and analyzed. Data analysis included the Chi-Square test, the Fisher exact test, and the t -test. Logistic regression analysis was utilized to control the confounding variables. Probabilities of p less than 0.05 were considered statistically significantly different. In the 5 years records retrieved during this study, 93 children patients sustained a total of 140 condylar head fractures. Statistical analysis revealed that abduction of condylar process in post-treatment was highly related to the condylar absorption. Patients associated with other mandibular fractures were highly related to abduction of condylar process. Patients with condylar head fractures, the closer to the medial of the condylar process, the higher the risk of abduction of the condyle. No matter what kind of treatment method is used, it is very difficult to reverse the abduction of condylar process in children patients with intracapsular fractures efficaciously. Abduction of condylar process in post-treatment was highly related to the condylar absorption. Patients associated with other mandibular fractures were highly related to abduction of condylar process. Children patients who presented with condylar head fractures, the closer to the medial of the condylar process the higher the risk of abduction of the condyle. Neither surgery nor conservative treatment can recover the abduction of condylar process efficaciously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary angle closure disease (PACD) is a major cause of blindness worldwide. It has a high prevalence in East Asia, especially in China, which leads to a higher incidence of blindness than open-angle glaucoma. The aim of this study was to directly observe the circumlental space (CLS) in laser peripheral iridotomized eyes with PACD and to determine whether this structure plays a role in the pathogenesis of PACD. Fifty eyes of 50 patients with PACD, who had received laser peripheral iridotomy performed with neodymium:yttrium–aluminum-garnet were recruited from glaucoma clinics from March 2021 to May 2022, including 17 primary angle closure suspect (PACS), 16 primary angle closure (PAC) and 17 primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG). They were classified into two groups based on whether the ciliary process and the crystalline lens equator were in contact using slit-lamp photograph: the attached group and the unattached group. The demographic, clinical characteristics and anterior segment parameters measured from ultrasound biomicroscopy were compared between the attached group and the unattached group. Thirty-three eyes were assigned to the attached group and 17 eyes belonged to the unattached group. In the unattached group, the mean CLS was 0.10 ± 0.07 mm. No significant differences were identified between the different diagnosis groups in age, sex, best-corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure, white-to-white, axial length, central corneal thickness, anterior chamber depth, flat keratometry, steep keratometry or iridotomy diameter (p > 0.05). The unattached group had shorter trabecular-ciliary process distance (p = 0.021) and larger ciliary process area (p = 0.001) compared with the attached group. Small CLS and its potential effect (partial ciliary block) might be considered as one of the mechanisms of PACD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using density functional theory and generalized gradient approximation for exchange and correlation, we present theoretical analysis of the electronic structure of recently synthesized graphyne and its boron nitride analog (labeled as BN-yne). The former is composed of hexagonal carbon rings joined by C-chains, while the latter is composed of hexagonal BN rings joined by C-chains. We have explored the nature of bonding and energy band structure of these unique systems characterized by sp and sp2 bonding. Both graphyne and BN-yne are found to be direct bandgap semiconductors. The bandgap can be modulated by changing the size of hexagonal ring and the length of carbon chain, providing more flexibilities of energy band engineering for device applications. The present study sheds theoretical insight on better understanding of the properties of the novel carbon-based 2D structures beyond the graphene sheet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objective This study aimed to evaluate and compare the demographic characteristics of mandibular condylar fractures between children and adolescents. Methods The sample was composed of all children (less than 12 years) and adolescents (between 13 and 18 years old) who presented with mandibular condylar fractures within a 5-year period (January 2011 to April 2016). The age, gender, time of injury, mechanism of trauma, location and pattern of fracture, associated injuries and treatment methods were recorded and analysed. Data analysis included chi-square test and Fisher exact test. Differences at p less than 0.05 were considered significant. Results A total of 111 children and 39 adolescent patients with condylar fractures were registered and compared. More children than adolescents were involved in falls from a height (p = 0.007), but nearly no relationship was observed between the trauma aetiology and type of condylar fracture in the two patient groups. Condylar head fractures occurred most frequently in the children and adolescents, especially in the children (p < 0.05). Condylar neck fractures were more frequently observed in the adolescent patients (p < 0.001) than in the children. Green-stick fractures occurred only in the child patients (p = 0.005). The patients who fractured other sites of the mandible tended to show a decreased frequency of dislocation (condylar head was out of the glenoid fossa) (p = 0.024). Symphysis/para-symphysis fractures were highly common in the children who sustained unilateral condylar fractures, compared to adolescents (p < 0.05). The patients with bilateral condylar fractures were more frequently associated with other mandibular fractures (children, p = 0.001; adolescents, p = 0.011), especially the fracture of the mandibular body or symphysis. The children who sustained extracapsular fractures were more prone to fractures of other mandibular sites (p = 0.009), especially fracture of the symphysis/para-symphysis (p = 0.014). Intracapsular fractures in children were treated non-surgically more frequently than surgically (p < 0.001). The extracapsular fractures (mild and serious fractures) in children were also treated non-surgically more frequently (p < 0.05). Conclusions The trauma mechanisms, incidence, pattern and treatment of condylar fractures in children substantially differ from those in adolescents. This study was conducted to enable the understanding of the differences in condylar fractures between children and adolescents. Accordingly, preventive measures and treatment plans in children or adolescents should be applied differently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to investigate the value of dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) combined with quantitative analysis of diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) for the diagnosis of prostate cancer (PCa). A total of 81 patients with prostatic diseases, including PCa (n=44) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH, n=37), were imaged with T1 weighted imaging (T1WI), T2 weighted imaging (T2WI), DWI and DCE-MRI. The blood vessel permeability parameters volume transfer rate constant (Ktrans), back flow rate constant (Kep), extravascular extracellular space volume fraction (Ve), plasma volume fraction (Vp) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) were measured, and compared between the two groups. The efficiency of these tools for the diagnosis of PCa was analyzed by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. The efficiency of ADC combined with blood vessel permeability parameters in the diagnosis of PCa was analyzed by logistic regression. The correlation between these parameters and the Gleason score was evaluated by Spearman correlation analysis in the PCa group. The results demonstrated that, compared with the BPH group, Ktrans, Kep, Ve and Vp were higher, and ADC was lower in the PCa group (P<0.05). The combination of Kep and ADC offered the highest diagnosis efficiency [area under the curve (AUC=0.939)]. However, the combination of three parameters did not significantly improve the diagnostic efficiency. A subtle improvement in diagnostic efficiency was observed when four parameters (Ktrans + Kep + Ve + ADC) were combined (AUC=0.940), which was significantly higher than with one parameter. The ADC value of the PCa group was negatively correlated with the primary Gleason pattern, secondary Gleason pattern and the total Gleason score in PCa (r=−0.665, −0.456 and −0.714, respectively; P<0.001). The Vp in the PCa group was slightly negatively correlated with the primary Gleason pattern of PCa (r=−0.385; P<0.05); however, no significant correlation was found with secondary Gleason pattern and the total Gleason score. The present study revealed that the combination of DCE-MRI quantitative analysis and DWI was efficient for PCa diagnosis. This may be because DCE-MRI and DWI can noninvasively detect water motility in tumor tissues and alterations in permeability during tumor neovascularization. The present study demonstrated that Kep and ADC values may be used as predictive parameters for PCa diagnosis, which may help differentiate benign from malignant prostate lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, partial sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene of 22 island populations of the springtail Homidia socia in the Thousand Island Lake were sequenced. Across all sequences, 37 haplotypes were identified for the 510‐bp mitochondrial (mt) DNA COI gene. Haplotype 2 was the most common, and was distributed in the most of the 22 island populations. Haplotype diversity ranged from 0.065 to 0.733, and the total genetic diversity was 0.56216. The genetic characteristics of the 22 island populations were analyzed using the fixation index and gene flow, with values of 0.00043–0.94900 and 0.02703–703.72540, respectively. Comparison between (island area and isolations) with population genetic diversity revealed that there were no significant correlations between them, except for a significant correlation between the number of haplotypes and island area. Mantel tests showed that there was no significant correlation between geographic distance and genetic distance among various groups. All the results indicated that there were no obvious relationships between island characteristics and the genetic diversity of the springtails. We consider that the low dispersal capacity of springtails and the island patches surrounded by water in the Thousand Island Lake are the major factors affecting the genetic diversity of H. socia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Castleman's disease (CD) is a lymphoproliferative abnormality, also referred to as giant lymph node hyperplasia or follicular lymphoid hyperplasia. The occurrence of CD in the liver is rare. Radiological diagnosis of hepatic CD by computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) remains difficult. On imaging, hepatic CD is often expressed as a single, well.defined soft tissue lesion, with rare cystic degeneration and focal necrosis. The CD lesions appear as hypervascular with abundant cell proliferation on CT and MRI. Polymorphic calcification is commonly identified in the lesion. However, these findings are non.specific for a definitive radiological diagnosis. We herein present a case of hepatic CD and review its pathological and imaging characteristics. In particular, a strip.like area was observed extending from the nodule, which may be helpful for the diagnosis of CD in the liver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thousand Island Lake (TIL) is a fragmented landscape consisting of more than 1000 land-bridge islands isolated during reservoir formation. To evaluate the effects of fragmentation and island attributes on insect populations, we examined the genetic structure ofLoxoblemmus aomoriensis, a species of cricket widely distributed in TIL, and compared genetic diversity between islands samples. Population genetic analyses was conducted based on mitochondrial DNA haplotype frequencies of 10 sample islands. By comparing three island attributes with population genetic diversity reveals that island area influenced population genetic diversity (r2 = 0.5094,p = 0.00204). Using Pairwise Fst values, we also found that long-distance isolation increased the genetic differentiation, while short-distance isolation can be offset by dispersal. These results indicate that fragmentation can impact populations on a genetic level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic mouse models are widely used for understanding human diseases but we know much less about the anatomical structure of the auditory ossicles in the mouse than we do about human ossicles. Furthermore, current studies have mainly focused on disease conditions such as osteomalacia and rickets in patients with hypophosphatemia rickets, although the reason that these patients develop late-onset hearing loss is unknown. In this study, we first analyzed Dmp1 lac Z knock-in auditory ossicles (in which the blue reporter is used to trace DMP1 expression in osteocytes) using X-gal staining and discovered a novel bony membrane surrounding the mouse malleus. This finding was further confirmed by 3-D micro-CT, X-ray, and alizarin red stained images. We speculate that this unique structure amplifies and facilitates sound wave transmissions in two ways: increasing the contact surface between the eardrum and malleus and accelerating the sound transmission due to its mineral content. Next, we documented a progressive deterioration in the Dmp1 -null auditory ossicle structures using multiple imaging techniques. The auditory brainstem response test demonstrated a conductive hearing loss in the adult Dmp1 -null mice. This finding may help to explain in part why patients with DMP1 mutations develop late-onset hearing loss, and supports the critical role of DMP1 in maintaining the integrity of the auditory ossicles and its bony membrane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The design of effective tools for detecting copper ion (Cu 2 + ) and sulfide anion (S 2 − ) is of great importance due to the abnormal level of Cu 2 + and S 2 − has been associated with an increase in risk of many diseases. Herein, we report on the fabrication of fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) based fluorescent probe PF (PEI-FITC) for detecting Cu 2 + and S 2 − in 100% aqueous media via a facile one-pot method by covalent linking fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) with branched-polyethylenimine (b-PEI). PF could selectively coordinate with Cu 2 + among 10 metal ions to form PF-Cu 2 + complex, resulting in fluorescence quenching through FRET mechanism. Furthermore, the in situ generated PF-Cu 2 + complex can be used to selectively detect S 2 − based on the displacement approach, resulting in an off-on type sensing. There is no obvious interference from other anions, such as Cl − , NO 3 − , ClO 4 − , SO 4 2 − , HCO 3 − , CO 3 2 − , Br − , HPO 4 2 − , F − and S 2 O 3 2 − . In addition, PF was successfully used to determine Cu 2 + and S 2 − in human serum and tap water samples. Therefore, the FRET-based probe PF may provide a new method for selective detection of multifarious analysts in biological and environmental applications, and even hold promise for application in more complicated systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chlorinated paraffins (CPs) are typical semi-volatile chemicals (SVOCs) that have been used in copious quantities in indoor material additives. SVOCs distribute dynamically between the gas phase and various condensate phases, especially organic films. Investigating the dynamic behaviors of existing CPs in indoor environments is necessary for understanding their potential risk to humans from indoor exposure. We investigate the distribution profiles of CPs in both gas phase and organic films in indoor environments of residential buildings in Beijing, China. The concentrations of CPs were in the range of 32.21–1447 ng/m3 in indoor air and in the range of 42.30–431.1 μg/m2 and in organic films. Cooking frequency was identified as a key factor that affected the distribution profiles of CPs. Furthermore, a film/gas partitioning model was constructed to explore the transportation and fate of CPs. Interestingly, a re-emission phenomenon from organic films was observed for chemical groups with lower log K oa components, and, importantly, their residue levels in indoor air were well predicted. The estimated exposure risk of CPs in indoor environment was obtained. For the first time, these results produced convincing evidence that the co-exposure risk of short-chain CPs (SCCPs), medium-chain CPs (MCCPs), and long-chain CPs (LCCPs) in indoor air could be further increased by film/gas distribution properties, which is relevant for performing risk assessments of exposure to these SVOCs in indoor environments. [Display omitted] • SCCPs, MCCPs, and LCCPs in the indoor air and organic films on glass surfaces were analyzed. • Cooking frequency was one of the key factors affecting the residue levels of CPs. • Film/Gas partitioning of CPs was more consistent with the steady-state model. • Using easily available organic film samples to predict the occurrence of pollutants in indoor air. • The co-exposure risk of CPs could be further increased by film/gas distribution properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the mandible is susceptible to fracture, the aim of this study was to use multivariate logistic regression analysis to identify and distinguish various internal factors that may influence the location of mandibular fractures. The study included 1131 patients with maxillofacial fractures during the period from January 2000 to December 2009 to evaluate the association of mandibular fracture location (unilateral symphysis, body, angle, condylar, or bilateral condylar fractures) with various internal factors. Among the 1131 patients, 869 had mandibular fractures. Data on age, sex, soft tissue injuries, dental trauma, and maxillofacial fracture type were collected and analyzed using multivariate logistic regression. In total, 387, 210, 139, 319, and 172 patients were diagnosed with unilateral symphysis, body, angle, unilateral, or bilateral condylar fractures, respectively. The dental trauma in patients with bilateral condylar fractures differed from that in patients with unilateral condylar fractures. Patients with mandibular fracture (unilateral symphysis, body, unilateral or bilateral condylar) possessed an approximately equal risk of soft tissue injuries in the mandible. Patients with either unilateral or bilateral condylar fractures were associated with a low risk of mandibular angle fracture (OR < 1). Similarly, patients with mandibular angle fracture were associated with a low risk of unilateral or bilateral condylar fractures (OR < 1). Moreover, patients with symphysis fracture were associated with a low risk of bilateral condylar fractures (90 of 387 [23.3%], OR 0.899). By contrast, patients with bilateral condylar fractures were associated with a high risk of symphysis fracture (90 of 172 [52.3%], OR 17.38). Patients with condylar fractures, particularly those with bilateral condylar fractures, were infrequently associated with secondary mandibular fractures. Mandibular fractures tended to have less of an association with midfacial fractures. The occurrence of mandibular fractures is strongly correlated with age, sex, soft tissue injuries, dental trauma, and the pattern and position of the maxillofacial fractures in patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, multi-scale engineering properties related to the harvesting, simulation and textural evaluation of two tomato cultivars at six ripening stages were simultaneously investigated. A potential ripening scale based on the ratio of R:G:B for a given ripening stage was suggested. The geometric mean diameter was most closely correlated with the fruit mass. Tomato fruit feature an irregular shape and asymmetric internal structure at the macro-scale, non-unique tissue thickness at the meso-scale and an irregular change of size, shape and arrangement of single cells at the micro-scale. The hardness and shear strength of fruit at different scales and the single cell mechanics varied with the fruit ripening stage but not the chosen cultivars. The contribution of exocarp to the hardness of whole fruit gradually increased with fruit ripeness. The hardness and shear strength of fruit tissues and the fruit's single cells varied between 0.37 and 2.25 MPa and 0.04 and 11.58 MPa, respectively. This puncture experimental method is well-suited to measure the hardness and shear strength of tomato fruit at different scales and single tomato cell mechanics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we investigate a novel efficient metasurface-based wideband cross-polarization converter. The device rotates the y-polarized electromagnetic (EM) wave into an x-polarized EM-wave for a wide range of wavelengths (9.8 GHz–18.9 GHz) and vice versa. The unit cell of the proposed converter is very small and consists of four metal/dielectric layers. The asymmetric resonators represent a solid base to allow higher conversion efficiencies, while the slightly varying magnetic and electric resonances between neighboring layers produce a broad operating frequency range. Furthermore, only additive manufacturing technology was used, which offers a low-cost and simple solution to produce the complicated multilayer device. Both measured and simulated results are in good agreement confirming the excellent performance. This study can help both the affordable design and fabrication of multilayer wideband polarization converters in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To investigate the anterior segment parameters before and after cataract surgery in open-angle eyes and different subtypes of primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) eyes and to further explore the potential relationship between the anterior rotation of the ciliary process and crystalline lens. Methods: An observational, prospective study was performed on 66 patients who had cataract surgery including 22 chronic PACG patients, 22 acute PACG patients, and 22 open-angle cataract patients. Anterior segment parameters including the trabecular-ciliary process distance, ciliary process area, trabecular-ciliary angle (TCA), maximum ciliary body thickness (CBTmax), and so on, were measured using ultrasound biomicroscopy preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively. Results: After the surgery, there were significant increases in TCA (p < 0.001) and CBTmax (p < 0.05) in all three groups, while there was no significant change in the trabecular-ciliary process distance (p > 0.05) in all three groups. No significant difference in the changes of ciliary process area, TCA, and CBTmax (p > 0.05) pre- and postoperatively among the three groups were identified. Conclusions: Extractions of crystalline lenses played similar roles in terms of decreasing the anterior rotation of ciliary processes in open-angle eyes and angle-closure eyes. A natural anatomical abnormality may be a more important factor in the anterior rotation of ciliary processes in PACG patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this study we explored the effects of galectin-9 on CVB3 induced myocarditis and its possible mechanisms involved. We demonstrated that galectin-9 expression was significantly up-regulated in the myocardium following CVB3 infection and was correlated with the severity of viral myocarditis. To explore whether galectin-9 may have therapeutic effect on the CVB3 induced myocarditis, galectin-9 was administered daily to mice following CVB3 infection. Significantly reduced CD4+ T cells and remarkably increased regulatory T cells frequency in the heart tissue were found as compared to the non-treated mice. It was accompanied by a significant decreased level of Th1 cytokines as TNF-α and IFN-γ both in the myocardium and serum, and an increased level of Th2 cytokines such as IL-4 and IL-10. Galectin-9 was further found to promote the proliferation of regulatory T cells and elevated IL-4-secreting Th2 cells. It may represent as a novel therapeutic strategy in treating Th1-mediated inflammatory cardiac disease. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objectives: To establish a deep learning (DL) model for predicting tumor grades and expression of pathologic markers of meningioma. Methods: A total of 1192 meningioma patients from two centers who underwent surgical resection between September 2018 and December 2021 were retrospectively included. The pathological data and post-contrast T1-weight images for each patient were collected. The patients from institute I were subdivided into training, validation, and testing sets, while the patients from institute II served as the external testing cohort. The fine-tuned ResNet50 model based on transfer learning was adopted to classify WHO grade in the whole cohort and predict Ki-67 index, H3K27me3, and progesterone receptor (PR) status of grade 1 meningiomas. The predictive performance was evaluated by the accuracy and loss curve, confusion matrix, receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC), and area under curve (AUC). Results: The DL prediction model for each label achieved high predictive performance in two cohorts. For WHO grade prediction, the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.966 (95%CI 0.957–0.975) in the internal testing set and 0.669 (95%CI 0.643–0.695) in the external validation cohort. The AUC in predicting Ki-67 index, H3K27me3, and PR status were 0.905 (95%CI 0.895–0.915), 0.773 (95%CI 0.760–0.786), and 0.771 (95%CI 0.750–0.792) in the internal testing set and 0.591 (95%CI 0.562–0.620), 0.658 (95%CI 0.648–0.668), and 0.703 (95%CI 0.674–0.732) in the external validation cohort, respectively. Conclusion: DL models can preoperatively predict meningioma grades and pathologic marker expression with favorable predictive performance. Clinical relevance statement: Our DL model could predict meningioma grades and expression of pathologic markers and identify high-risk patients with WHO grade 1 meningioma, which would suggest a more aggressive operative intervention preoperatively and a more frequent follow-up schedule postoperatively. Key Points: WHO grades and some pathologic markers of meningioma were associated with therapeutic strategies and clinical outcomes. A deep learning–based approach was employed to develop a model for predicting meningioma grades and the expression of pathologic markers. Preoperative prediction of meningioma grades and the expression of pathologic markers was beneficial for clinical decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glioma is the most common primary malignant tumor of the adult central nervous system (CNS), which mostly shows invasive growth. In most cases, surgery is often difficult to completely remove, and the recurrence rate and mortality of patients are high. With the continuous development of molecular genetics and the great progress of molecular biology technology, more and more molecular biomarkers have been proved to have important guiding significance in the individualized diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis evaluation of glioma. With the updates of the World Health Organization (WHO) classification of tumors of the CNS in 2021, the diagnosis and treatment of glioma has entered the era of precision medicine in the true sense. Due to its ability to non-invasively achieve accurate identification of glioma from other intracranial tumors, and to predict the grade, genotyping, treatment response, and prognosis of glioma, which provides a scientific basis for the clinical application of individualized diagnosis and treatment model of glioma, radiomics has become a research hotspot in the field of precision medicine. This paper reviewed the research related to radiomics of adult gliomas published in recent years and summarized the research proceedings of radiomics in differential diagnosis, preoperative grading and genotyping, treatment and efficacy evaluation, and survival prediction of adult gliomas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: UK-5099 is a potent mitochondrial acetone carrier inhibitor, that exhibits anticancer activity. Recently, the anti-Toxoplasma gondii activity of UK-5099 was proposed, and in vivo studies of its pharmacokinetics in BALB/c mice are necessary to further evaluate the clinical effect of UK-5099. Methods and results: A simple and fast high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC–MS/MS) analysis method was established and verified in terms of its linearity, matrix effect, accuracy, precision, recovery and stability. The analytes were separated by an Agilent ZORBAX XDB-C18 column (2.1 × 50 mm, 3.5 μm) at 30 °C. A gradient mobile phase consisting of water with 0.1% formic acid (FA) (phase A) and acetonitrile (ACN) (phase B) was delivered at a flow rate of 0.40 mL·min−1 with an injection volume of 5 μL. A good linear response was obtained in a concentration range of 5–5000 ng·mL−1 (r2 = 0.9947). The lower limit of quantification (LLOQ) was 5 ng·mL−1. The extraction recovery of UK-5099 was greater than 95%. The inter- and intra-day accuracy and precision of the method showed relative standard deviations (RSDs) of less than 15%. This method has been successfully applied to the pharmacokinetic evaluation of UK-5099 in mouse plasma. In health mice, the main pharmacokinetic parameters of UK-5099 after intraperitoneal administration were measured using a noncompartmental model, in which the AUC0-t was 42,103 ± 12,072 ng·h·mL−1 and the MRT0-t was 0.857 ± 0.143 h. The peak concentration (Cmax) was 82,500 ± 20,745 ng·h·mL−1, which occurred at a peak time (Tmax) = 0.250 ± 0.000 h. Conclusions: A fast and sensitive HPLC–MS/MS method was developed, validated and successfully used for the determination of UK-5099 levels in mice after intraperitoneal administration. This study was the first report of the pharmacokinetic parameters of UK-5099 in mice, which will help to further study the administration of UK-5099 in animals and humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Perfluorooctane sulfonamide can transform to perfluocarboxylic acids under sunlight. • Clay mineral can promote the transformation of perfluorooctane sulfonamide. • Water-montmorillonite interface can generate superoxide anion and hydroxyl radical. In this study, a new phototransformation pathway for perfluorooctane sulfonamide (FOSA) and underlying degradation mechanisms are described. Phototransformation of FOSA in a natural clay mineral (montmorillonite) suspension was compared to that in an aqueous solution. Results showed that the presence of montmorillonite can significantly promote the transformation of FOSA to perfluocarboxylic acids (increasing rate). The phototransformation reaction was found to be initiated by the activation of adsorbed oxygen molecules on the surface of montmorillonite, which generate superoxide anion and hydroxyl radicals. Hydroxyl radicals can then attack FOSA adsorbed onto the surface of montmorillonite, promoting the transformation process. In this reaction, clay minerals played a dual role: providing hydroxyl radicals and concentrating FOSA on their surfaces. This helped to promote the contact and reaction between FOSA and hydroxyl radicals. This study provides the first evidence that heterogeneous oxidation of FOSA at the surface of natural clay minerals may act as an important source of perfluocarboxylic acids (PFCAs), especially short chain PFCAs (i.e. trifluoroacetic acid, TFA). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The aim was to retrospectively analyze the ultrasonographic and clinical characteristics of focal inflammatory masses and malignant masses of salivary gland by using B-mode ultrasound (US) and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) for differential analysis. METHODS: The features of US and CEUS were retrospectively analyzed for 19 cases of focal salivary inflammatory masses and 45 cases of malignant salivary masses. All cases were confirmed by pathohistological examination. RESULTS: On B-mode US, the incidence of expansive growth patterns of malignant salivary masses (44.4%, 20/45) was significantly higher than that of focal salivary inflammatory masses (15.8%, 3/19) (p = 0.029). The rate of lymphadenopathy surrounding salivary glands of malignant salivary masses (42.2%, 19/45) was significantly higher than that of focal salivary inflammatory masses (15.8%, 3/19) (p = 0.042). On CEUS, clear enhancement margins were more common in malignant salivary masses (44.4%, 20/45) compared to focal salivary inflammatory masses (15.8%, 3/19) (p = 0.029); Rapid washout was more common in malignant salivary masses (82.2%, 37/45) than focal salivary inflammatory masses (31.6%, 6/19) (p < 0.001). Rapid washout on CEUS and craniocaudal diameter were independent predictive factors in differentiating salivary inflammatory masses and malignant masses according to binary logistic regression analysis. US and CEUS achieved a sensitivity of 80.0%, a specificity of 78.9% and an accuracy of 80.0% for discrimination between salivary inflammatory masses and malignant masses. CONCLUSION: Therefore, a multimodal ultrasonographic pathway combining clinical manifestations, B-mode US and CEUS was needed to differentiate between salivary focal inflammatory masses and malignancies to avoid unnecessary biopsies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A multiband absorber fabricated from stereo frequency selective structures (FSSs) is presented herein. The proposed absorber is composed of a lateral spilt loop intersected by four standing closed loops. The absorber exhibits pentaband electromagnetic (EM) wave absorption at normal incidence, as well as an angle‐dependent multiband absorption with high absorptivity at large incident angles (>80°) for both transverse electric and transverse magnetic polarizations. The complicated structure, including the stereo resonators and dielectric substrate, is fabricated using one‐step forming method of multimaterial hybrid microdroplet jetting modeling (MHMJM) technology. The results suggest that this design strategy has great potential in constructing stereo FSSs with unique characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Electrospun polysaccharide-based nanofiber membrane with a 3D network structure. • Biomimetic scale-like "core-shell" nanostructured piezoresistive material. • A broadened conductive pathway by in-situ polymerization of PPy. • A broad pressure range (0.13–128.46 kPa) and a high sensitivity (52.42 kPa−1). • Huge potential applicability in remote monitoring. A nanofiber membrane is an ideal carrier for constructing a typical three-dimensional conductive network. Inspired by the biomimetic scale-like nanostructure, polysaccharide-based piezoresistive material with outstanding Joule heating performance, thermal efficiency, and high conductivity is developed, presenting a potential indicator material with the color shifting function for intelligent skin or soft robots in practical applications. The stable core-shell structure due to the in-situ polymerization of polypyrrole (PPy) on the electrospun nanofiber endows the piezoresistive sensor (s-PGG@PPy) with a broad pressure range (0.13–128.46 kPa), high sensitivity (52.42 kPa−1) and fast response time (26 ms). The free motion of π electrons along the nanofibers between carbon atoms perfectly made it an attractive candidate for real-time monitoring of human activities, including bending of fingers, wrist, knee, and facial expression. In addition, designing s-PGG@PPy is to be connected in parallel and composed of an indication function glove, which shows different brightness with finger pressure. Consequently, the reported piezoresistive sensor represents a potential for wearable bioelectronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The first treatment strategy for brain metastases (BM) plays a pivotal role in the prognosis of patients. Among all strategies, stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is considered a promising therapy method. Therefore, we developed and validated a radiomics-based prediction pipeline to prospectively identify BM patients who are insensitive to SRS therapy, especially those who are at potential risk of progressive disease. Methods: A total of 337 BM patients (277, 30, and 30 in the training set, internal validation set, and external validation set, respectively) were enrolled in the study. 19,377 radiomics features (3 masks × 3 MRI sequences × 2153 features) extracted from 9 ROIs were filtered through LASSO and Max-Relevance and Min-Redundancy (mRMR) algorithms. The selected radiomics features were combined with 4 clinical features to construct a two-stage cascaded model for the prediction of BM patients' response to SRS therapy using SVM and an ensemble learning classifier. The performance of the model was evaluated by its accuracy, specificity, sensitivity, and AUC curve. Results: Radiomics features were integrated with the clinical features of patients in our optimal model, which showed excellent discriminative performance in the training set (AUC: 0.95, 95% CI: 0.88–0.98). The model was also verified in the internal validation set and external validation set (AUC 0.93, 95% CI: 0.76–0.95 and AUC 0.90, 95% CI: 0.73–0.93, respectively). Conclusions: The proposed prediction pipeline could non-invasively predict the response to SRS therapy in patients with brain metastases thus assisting doctors to precisely designate individualized first treatment decisions. Clinical relevance statement: The proposed prediction pipeline combines the radiomics features of multi-modal MRI with clinical features to construct machine learning models that noninvasively predict the response of patients with brain metastases to stereotactic radiosurgery therapy, assisting neuro-oncologists to develop personalized first treatment plans. Key Points: • The proposed prediction pipeline can non-invasively predict the response to SRS therapy. • The combination of multi-modality and multi-mask contributes significantly to the prediction. • The edema index also shows a certain predictive value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a novel feature selection and fusion framework is proposed to enhance the discrimination ability of gas sensor arrays for odor identification. Firstly, we put forward an efficient feature selection method based on the separability and the dissimilarity to determine the feature selection order for each type of feature when increasing the dimension of selected feature subsets. Secondly, the K-nearest neighbor (KNN) classifier is applied to determine the dimensions of the optimal feature subsets for different types of features. Finally, in the process of establishing features fusion, we come up with a classification dominance feature fusion strategy which conducts an effective basic feature. Experimental results on two datasets show that the recognition rates of Database I and Database II achieve 97.5% and 80.11%, respectively, when k = 1 for KNN classifier and the distance metric is correlation distance (COR), which demonstrates the superiority of the proposed feature selection and fusion framework in representing signal features. The novel feature selection method proposed in this paper can effectively select feature subsets that are conducive to the classification, while the feature fusion framework can fuse various features which describe the different characteristics of sensor signals, for enhancing the discrimination ability of gas sensors and, to a certain extent, suppressing drift effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Remnant populations of Myricaria laxiflora are degrading due to difficulties in regeneration. To uncover the critical factors that hinder the regeneration of M. laxiflora populations, the present study examined seed persistence, seed germination and seedling survival and growth under different soil water contents and groundwater levels. Results revealed that seed viability significantly decreased with prolonged storage time. The germination rate of seeds stored for 15 days was 10.9%, which was 79.8% lower than unstored seeds. The viability of seeds was also significantly influenced by soil water content. The germination rate under the 0 g g−1 soil water content treatment was 105.3% higher than 0.10 g g−1 soil water content. Groundwater level significantly affected seed germination and seedling growth. The suitable groundwater level for seed germination and seedling growth was between −10 and −15 cm, at which, the germination rate, seedling survival rate and seedling biomass reached their highest values. Compared to the 0 and −20 cm groundwater levels, the −10 cm level resulted in a 16.8% and 166.7% higher germination rate, 14.1% and 9.2% higher seedling survival rate and 116.7% and 82.0% higher aboveground biomass, respectively. The longest main roots were observed at the −15 cm groundwater level. Therefore, it was concluded that changes in soil water content and groundwater level affect the regeneration of remnant M. laxiflora populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) were listed in the Stockholm Convention in 2017 yet are still used in large-tonnage in China. Diet is the main external exposure pathway of many persistent organic pollutants (POPs), but SCCP diet exposure has not been studied completely thus far. In this study, samples of 122 raw foods were collected from markets in Beijing, cooked with Chinese traditional cooking methods, and analyzed for SCCPs. Overall, SCCP levels in the raw food materials ranged from0.67 to 5100 ng g−1 wet weight (ww). SCCP elimination was found in six out of seven kinds in the cooking case study. Concentrations in the raw food used for cooking ranged from 3.6 to 52 ng g−1 ww, while the corresponding values in the cooked food ranged from 0.67 to 10.8 ng g−1 ww. The SCCP elimination rate ranged from 12% to 93%. The daily average intake of SCCPs for the general population through raw food and cooked food was assessed. The total daily SCCP intake via these foods was 403 and 145 ng kg−1 bw d−1, which suggests that different assessing approaches may result in different estimated SCCP diet exposure amounts. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) were detected in raw foods and cooked foods collected in Beijing area. • SCCPs elimination were found in cooked food after Chinese traditional cooking. • SCCPs elimination efficiency differs among different food species and different cooking pattern. • Diet exposure assessment based on the margin of exposure (MOE) value indicated a low risk of SCCPs exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play important roles in the progression of glioma. Here, we examined the potential functions of a lncRNA, LINC01003, in glioma and characterized the underlying molecular mechanisms. Methods: The GEIPA2 and Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CCGA) databases were employed to analyze gene expression and the overall survival curve in patients with glioma. The functions of LINC01003 in glioma growth and migration were assessed by loss-of-function experiments in vitro and in vivo. RNA sequencing was used to determine the signaling pathways effected by LINC01003. Bioinformatics analysis and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays were used to explore the mechanism underlying the N6-methyladenine (m6A) modification-dependent upregulation of LINC01003 in glioma. Results: LINC01003 expression was upregulated in glioma cell lines and tissues. Higher LINC01003 expression predicted shorter overall survival time in glioma patients. Functionally, LINC01003 knockdown inhibited the cell cycle and cell proliferation and migration in glioma cells. Mechanistically, RNA sequencing revealed that LINC01003 mediated the focal adhesion signaling pathway. Furthermore, LINC01003 upregulation is induced by m6A modification regulated by METTL3. Conclusion: This study characterized LINC01003 as a lncRNA that contributes to tumorigenesis in glioma and demonstrated that the LINC01003-CAV1-FAK axis serves as a potential therapeutic target for glioma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the realization of a control algorithm for the practical motor driver system, simulation is an important procedure before the algorithm is implanted into the DSP chip. In most circumstances, the simulation is done before the algorithm is realized, which is simulated under the condition of continuous control system. However, the simulation neglects the effect of the discrete system caused by the software structure, which the algorithm in DSP is triggered by the events trigger interrupt. Moreover, the model is complicated and cannot reflect the real hardware and the pipelined algorithm. Furthermore, the accuracy and running time of the simulation model are controlled by the simulation step setting. In this paper, a novel discrete simulation model is realized and introduced to consider the effect of both hardware and software and to reduce the running time with a considerable accuracy. The unification of the parameters is also considered in the model to make the system more efficient. The result reveals that the proposed method reflects the effect of both the real hardware and the software, which form a close loop between the simulation and algorithm realization. The simulation runtime is reduced, while the accuracy is unchanged, and it is suitable for the simulation of high-speed motor driver system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypochlorite (ClO − ) and temperature play crucial roles in a wide range of physiological processes, and they are also implicated in various diseases, including cancer, inflammation of tissues and so on. Therefore, it is of great importance to explore a novel method to detect ClO − and temperature instantly. In this study, we developed a silica nanoparticle-based dual-responsive ratiometric fluorescent sensor (DRFS), whose correlative dual emissions can response to ClO − and temperature independently and sensitively. The detection limit of DRFS can reach to as low as 26 nM for the detection of ClO − . And further research demonstrates that DRFS possesses excellent anti-interference feature when other possible interferents exist, and has been successfully applied in ClO − detection in human serum and recognition of exogenous/endogenous ClO − in HeLa cells and macrophages by fluorescence microscopic imaging. Moreover, DRFS can also be used as a ratiometric temperature sensor, and the fluorescence intensity ratio (I 576 /I 445 ) exhibits a linear temperature response in the range from 20 to 60 °C with a change ratio as large as a factor of 5. Based on the above research, the DRFS can be used as versatile fluorescence sensor in various physiological and environmental systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vegetation growing concrete (VGC) is a kind of concrete composed of a sand-free porous concrete skeleton and plant-growing substrate, which has a certain strength and is suitable for plant growth. In this study, Lolium perenne , Festuca arundinacea , and Festuca rubra were used to construct VGC. The variation and temporal changes in the effects of these three herbaceous plants on the performance of VGC in terms of soil stabilization and slope protection were assessed herein. Plant growth at different growth stages, rainfall interception by the aboveground parts of the plants, and the erosion resistance and shear strength of the substrates were evaluated concurrently. The growth rate of the stems, leaves, and root systems of the three species of plants decreased over time. Overall, L. perenne had the best growth state, followed by F. rubra and F. arundinacea. The maximum interception amount and the maximum interception rate of the aboveground part of the vegetation increased initially then decreased over time. L. perenne had the highest maximum interception amount and rate, which were 83.5% and 12.7% higher than those of F. arundinacea , respectively, and 32.7% and 7.7% higher than those of F. rubra , respectively. Plant roots enhanced the erosion resistance and shearing strength of VGC. The erosion resistance and shearing strength of VGC increased over time and reached the maximum value at the later stages of plant growth. L. perenne had the highest enhancement effect on erosion resistance and the highest shearing strength, which were 5.9% and 8.3% higher than those of F. rubra , respectively, and 10.7% and 16.4% higher than those of F. arundinacea , respectively. Among the three herbs, L. perenne is the appropriate species for the construction of VGC for slope protection in the mountainous areas of southwest China. • Lolium perenne , Festuca arundinacea , and Festuca rubra vegetation concrete differed significantly in the rainfall interception. • Plant roots enhanced the erosion resistance and shearing strength of the vegetation concretes. • Among the three herbs, L. perenne is the appropriate species for the construction of vegetation concrete for slope protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ovule abortion affects the yield and quality of Pinus tabulaeformis Carr. seeds. Research into ovule abortion has importance for improving the seed setting rate and establishing artificial seed production techniques. Fertile line (FL) ovules (FL-E) and sterile line (SL) ovules (SL-E) in the early stage of free nuclear mitosis of megagametophyte (FNMM), FL ovules (FL-L) and SL ovules (SL-L) in the late stage of FNMM of P. tabulaeformis were collected as materials. 4192 proteins were identified by isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ)-based analysis. Bioinformatics analysis implied that in SL ovules, substances and energy might be deficient, perhaps leading to abnormal DNA replication. Because the incomplete antioxidant system and the abnormal expression levels of enzymes involved in cell signal transduction, DNA DSBs probably occurs. Facing the abnormities of DNA replication and damage, the cell cycle was arrested and the DNA damage failed to be repaired, potentially resulting in the occurrence of PCD. Taken together, an inference can be drawn from our study – substance and energy deficiencies, reactive oxygen stress, and the failure of both cell cycle progression and DNA damage repair, which possibly hinder FNMM, leading to ovule abortion in the female-sterile line of P. tabulaeformis . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been shown to be essential for the emergence and growth of different cancers. However, further research is required to validate the function of circRNA in glioblastoma (GBM). Methods: CircNDC80 expression in both normal brain tissues (NBTs) and glioma tissues was determined using real-time PCR. The impact of circNDC80 on GBM cell proliferation, migration, and invasion was then confirmed by CCK-8, colony formation, EdU incorporation, Transwell, and wound healing assays. To determine how circNDC80 affects the capacity of glioma stem cells (GSCs) to maintain their stemness and self-renewal, a CellTiter-Glo assay, clonogenic assay and extreme limiting dilution assay were utilized. To ascertain the impact of circNDC80 in vivo, intracranial xenograft models were established. Results: When compared to NBT, glioblastoma tissue had a higher level of circNDC80 expression. In functional assays, circNDC80 promoted glioblastoma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, while sustaining the stemness and fostering the self-renewal of glioma stem cells. In addition, a dual luciferase reporter assay and circRIP were used to verify that circNDC80 simultaneously affects the expression of ECE1 mRNA by sponging miR-139-5p, and a rescue experiment was used to verify the above results further. Conclusions: According to our research, circNDC80 is an oncogenic factor that promotes glioblastoma through the miR-139-5p/ECE1 pathway. This implies that circNDC80 may be employed as a novel therapeutic target and a possible predictive biomarker. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare ischemic core volume (ICV) and penumbra volume (PV) measured by MIStar, F-STROKE, and Syngo.via with that measured by RAPID in acute ischemic stroke (AIS), and their concordance in selecting patients for endovascular thrombectomy (EVT).Methods: Computed tomography perfusion (CTP) data were processed with four software packages. Bland-Altman analysis and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were performed to evaluate their agreement in quantifying ICV and PV. Kappa test was conducted to assess consistency in the selection of EVT candidates. The correlation between predicted ICV and segmented final infarct volume (FIV) on follow-up images was investigated.Results: A total of 91 patients were retrospectively included. F-STROKE had the best consistency with RAPID (ICV: ICC = 0.97; PV: ICC = 0.84) and Syngo.via had the worst consistency (ICV: ICC = 0.77; PV: ICC = 0.66). F-STROKE had the narrowest limits of agreements both in ICV (-27.02, 24.40 mL) and PV (-85.59, 101.80 mL). When selecting EVT candidates, MIStar (kappa = 0.71-0.88) and F-STROKE (kappa = 0.84-0.90) had good to excellent consistency with RAPID, while Syngo.via had poor consistency (kappa = 0.20-0.41). ICV predicted by MIStar was correlated strongest with FIV (r = 0.77).Conclusions: F-STROKE is most consistent with RAPID in quantitative ICV and PV. F-STROKE and MIStar exhibit similar EVT candidate selection to RAPID. Syngo.via, for its part, seems to have overestimated ICV and underestimated PV, leading to an overly restrictive selection of EVT candidates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dormancy is an adaptation mechanism of plants to environmental stress. Myricaria laxiflora undergoes a long period of flooding stress every year. In order to determine whether this species escapes flooding stress through dormancy, young branches and leaves were collected at different time points before the onset of flooding, and changes in the content/activity of hormones/enzymes that are closely involved in plant growth were monitored. The inducing environmental factors of summer dormancy were identified. The branches and leaves of M. laxiflora showed the following trends as summer flooding approached: (1) gradual increase in the abscisic acid content; (2) gradual decrease in the gibberellin and cytokinin contents; and (3) a continuous decrease in the activities of malate dehydrogenase (MDH), ribulose diphosphate carboxylase (RuBisCo), and glycolate oxidase (GLO). Pearson correlation analysis revealed (1) daylight duration was highly correlated with the hormone content and enzyme activity; (2) the daily mean air temperature (DMAT) was significantly correlated with the cytokinin content. These findings suggest that daylight duration was the main environmental factor leading to changes in the phytohormone content and enzyme activity as well as leading to summer dormancy. M. laxiflora undergoes dormancy before the onset of summer flooding to escape summer flooding stress. Our data indicate that summer flooding does not impede the survival and growth of M. laxiflora. • The content of abscisic acid increased with the approach of summer flooding. • The content of cytokinin, gibberellin and enzymes decreased. • Change of daylight duration induced the variation of phytohormone and enzyme content. • M. laxiflora undergoes dormancy induced by daylight duration before summer flooding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]