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Semiconducting single‐walled carbon nanotubes (s‐SWNTs) have arisen a growing interest in field‐effect transistors (FETs) due to their advantages, such as lower fabrication temperature, flexibility, and solution processing applicability, compared to traditional silicon‐based FETs. In this study, diversifying the functionality of s‐SWNT‐based FETs is focused on, particularly emphasizing their use in nonvolatile photomemory applications. By selectively wrapping s‐SWNT with n‐type conjugated polymers (CPs), electron‐trapping and photoresponsive capabilities are endowed in the device. After optimizing the structure and aggregating behavior of n‐type CPs, a favorable supramolecular network comprising s‐SWNT and CPs is formed and applied in phototransistor memory. Accordingly, the device exhibits a high memory ratio and window of 105 and 75.7 V, representing its remarkable charge‐storage capabilities. In addition, the device demonstrates decent long‐term stability over 104 s and multilevel memory behavior driven by the varied gate bias or accumulated light‐gating periods. The proposed memory mechanism involves electrical writing and photoerasing processes with the existence of n‐type CPs on s‐SWNT, revealing the underlying principles of charge transfer between their heterojunction interfaces. Herein, this research contributes to developing advanced phototransistor memory, offering a promising avenue for future electronic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficacy of growth factor gene–modified stem cells in treating spinal cord injury (SCI) remains unclear. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of growth factor gene–modified stem cells in restoring motor function after SCI. Two reviewers searched four databases, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus, to identify relevant records. Studies on rodents assessing the efficacy of transplanting growth factor gene–modified stem cells in restoring motor function after SCI were included. The results were reported using the standardized mean difference (SMD) with a 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Analyses showed that growth factor gene–modified stem cell transplantation improved motor function recovery in rodents with SCI compared to the untreated (SMD = 3.98, 95% CI 3.26–4.70, I2 = 86.8%, P < 0.0001) and stem cell (SMD = 2.53, 95% CI 1.93–3.13, I2 = 86.9%, P < 0.0001) groups. Using growth factor gene–modified neural stem/histone cells enhanced treatment efficacy. In addition, the effectiveness increased when viral vectors were employed for gene modification and high transplantation doses were administered during the subacute phase. Stem cells derived from the human umbilical cord exhibited an advantage in motor function recovery. However, the transplantation of growth factor gene–modified stem cells did not significantly improve motor function in male rodents (P = 0.136). Transplantation of growth factor gene–modified stem cells improved motor function in rodents after SCI, but claims of enhanced efficacy should be approached with caution. The safety of gene modification remains a significant concern, requiring additional efforts to enhance its clinical translatability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep shale gas (3500-4500 m) will be the important succeeding field for the growth of shale gas production in China. Under the condition of high temperature and high pressure in deep shale gas reservoirs, its gas occurrence characteristics are markedly different from those of medium and shallow layers. To elucidate the gas occurrence characteristics and controlling factors of deep shales in the Wufeng-Longmaxi Formation, methane adsorption, low-temperature N2, and CO2 adsorption experiments were conducted. The results show that in deep shales, the mesopores provide approximately 75% of the total specific surface area (SSA) and 90% of the total pore volume (PV). Based on two hypotheses and comparing the theoretical and actual adsorption capacity, it is speculated that methane is adsorbed in deep shale in the form of micropore filling, and free gas is mainly stored in the mesopores. Correlation analysis demonstrated that TOC is the key material constraint for the adsorption capacity of deep shale, and micropore SSA is the key spatial constraint. Other minerals and mesopore parameters have limited effect on the amount of adsorbed gas. Moreover, the free gas content ranges from 2.72 m³/t to 6.20 m³/t, with an average value of 4.60 m³/t, and the free gas content ratio is approximately 58%, suggesting that the deep shale gas reservoirs are dominated by free gas. This ratio may also increase to approximately 70% when considering the formation temperature effect on adsorbed gas. Gas density, porosity, and gas saturation are the main controlling factors of free gas content, resulting in significantly larger free gas content in deep shale than in shallower formations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, iron oxide (Fe2O3)/graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4)/titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanofibers (NFs) were used as an additional layer on photoanode in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) to improve the photovoltaic performance of DSSCs. The nanofibers were prepared by electrospinning with double jets. The heterogeneous nanofiber composite mainly includes Fe2O3, g-C3N4, and TiO2. The Fe2O3/g-C3N4/TiO2 NFs were characterized by X-ray diffractometer (XRD), and the surface morphology was observed by a field emission scanning electron microscope (Fe-SEM). The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was applied to analyze the impedance of the cell. The incident photon current efficiency (IPCE) measurements were applied to determine the quantum efficiency, and ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometer was applied to observe the dye adsorption and absorption wavelength. To understand the performance of the modified photoanodes in DSSCs, we analyzed the photovoltaic parameters. The results suggest that the addition of Fe2O3/g-C3N4/TiO2 NFs is able to improve the conversion efficiency of the modified DSSCs to 4.81%. In addition, the efficiency under different illumination was also analyzed, and the highest conversion efficiency was 6.81% at 30 mW/cm2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The five-year overall survival rate of patients without neck lymph node recurrence is over 50% higher than those with lymph node metastasis. This study aims to investigate the prognostic impact of computed tomogram (CT)-based radiomics on the outcome of metastatic neck lymph nodes in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) receiving definitive radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy for organ preservation. The pretreatment 18F-FDG PET/CT of 79 HNC patients was retrospectively analyzed with radiomics extractors. The imbalanced data was processed using two techniques: over-sampling and under-sampling, after which the prediction model was established with a machine learning model using the XGBoost algorithm. The imbalanced dataset strategies slightly decreased the specificity but greatly improved the sensitivity. To have a higher chance of predicting neck cancer recurrence, however, clinical data combined with CT-based radiomics provides the best prediction effect. The original dataset performed was as follows: accuracy = 0.76 ± 0.07, sensitivity = 0.44 ± 0.22, specificity = 0.88 ± 0.06. After we used the over-sampling technique, the accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity values were 0.80 ± 0.05, 0.67 ± 0.11, and 0.84 ± 0.05, respectively. Furthermore, after using the under-sampling technique, the accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity values were 0.71 ± 0.09, 0.73 ± 0.13, and 0.70 ± 0.13, respectively. The outcome of metastatic neck lymph nodes in patients with HNC receiving radiotherapy for organ preservation can be predicted based on the results of machine learning. This way, patients can be treated alternatively. A further external validation study is required to verify our findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The administration of an intra-articular injection (IAI) of tranexamic acid (TXA) has been demonstrated to be effective in reducing both blood loss and transfusion rate during total knee arthroplasty (TKA); however, few studies have reported the efficiency of a peri-articular injection (PAI) of TXA. We studied the efficiency of a PAI of TXA in reducing blood loss during TKA.Methods: Fifty patients undergoing primary simultaneous bilateral TKA were enrolled in this retrospective study. The right knee received a PAI of 1 g of TXA (Group I), and the left knee received an IAI of 1 g of TXA (Group II). The clinical outcome measures were a change in blood loss from Hemovac drains and surgical time.Results: The decrease in blood loss from the Hemovac was significantly lower in Group I (460.1 ± 36.79 vs. 576.0 ± 34.01, P < 0.001) than in Group II, and no significant difference in surgical times was observed. The blood transfusion rate in the present study was 16 %.Conclusions: A PAI of TXA may reduce blood loss more efficiently than an IAI of TXA during TKA without increased complications such as surgical site infection, poor wound healing, skin necrosis, pulmonary embolism, and deep vein thrombosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In tandem with the urbanisation process, China's transport sector is currently experiencing rapid development and was ranked third out of all the industrial sectors in terms of generating CO 2 emissions in 2020, which poses a huge challenge to achieving carbon neutrality. Primarily using the energy consumption data from China's transport, storage and postal sectors (TSPS) and input and output data between 2007 and 2020, this study first uses the Tapio decoupling model to evaluate the decoupling effect in the TSPS. Structural decomposition analysis is then applied to explore sectoral linkages and decompose the forces driving CO 2 emissions. Additionally, we explore the main determinants of the energy structure effect and final demand in terms of energy consumption and industrial sector demand. Our results show that the target sector experienced a weak decoupling, which implies that the low-carbon transformation of this sector became increasingly apparent. Factor decomposition shows that improvements in energy intensity, energy structure and the production input and output structure have contributed significantly to reducing CO 2 emissions, but these gains have been largely offset by final demand, resulting in a net reduction of 27.97 million tons from 2007 to 2020. The increased usage of low carbon forms of energy, such as natural gas, is the key driver behind the emissions reduction effect in terms of the energy structure. However, the higher final demand from the construction sector and the wholesale and retail trades are the main factors that have increased CO 2 emissions. By adopting a sectoral and energy structure decomposition perspective, our study can be used to provide guidance to governments seeking to pursue carbon-reduction policies to achieve carbon peak and carbon neutrality, in the TSPS in particular. • Structural decomposition analysis is used to quantify the driving forces behind increasing CO2 emissions. • A decrease in energy intensity is vital to achieve carbon neutrality. • Natural gas is the main driver of reducing emissions in terms of energy structure. • Demand from specific industrial sectors is the main barrier to achieving carbon neutrality. • A pathway for achieving carbon neutrality in the transport sector is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To assess the effect of ligustrazine on airway remodeling in asthmatic rats. Methods. To collect studies on the effects of ligustrazine on airway remodeling in asthmatic rat models, PubMed, Embase, CBM, Cochrane, Chinese Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), VIP, and Wanfang data (WANFANG) were searched using a computer. Two investigators independently screened the literature, extracted the data, and assessed the methodological quality by complying with the inclusion criteria. Moreover, a meta-analysis was conducted by adopting Stata 11.0. Results. On the whole, 10 articles were included. As indicated from the meta-analysis, we have the following: ① ligustrazine was capable of reducing the thickness of the airway smooth muscle and inhibiting the proliferation of smooth muscle (WMD = −5.98, 95% CI (−7.75, −4.42), P ≤ 0.001); ② ligustrazine could reduce the thickness of the airway wall and mitigate tracheal stenosis (WMD = 0.12, 95% CI (0.05, 0.20), P ≤ 0.001); ③ ligustrazine could decrease the number of eosinophils in the lung tissue and reduce airway inflammation (WMD = −14.47, 95% CI (−18.09, −10.86), P ≤ 0.001). Conclusion. Ligustrazine was demonstrated to be an effective therapeutic drug in asthmatic rats by preventing and treating airway remodeling. Further high-quality experimental studies should be conducted to investigate the mechanism of ligustrazine action in depth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A range of helminth species involve the migration of developing larvae through the lung and establish chronic infections in the host that include potent immune regulatory effects. Trichinella spiralis is one of the most successful parasitic symbiotes. After released by intestinal female adult worms, newborn larvae of T. spiralis travel through the circulatory system to the lung and finally reach skeletal muscle cells. As unique inflammation modulator of intracellular parasitism, T. spiralis shows improved responses to autoimmune disease and viral pulmonary inflammation by exerting immunomodulatory effects on innate and adaptive immune cells. Methodology/Principal findings: C57BL/6 mice were divided into four groups: uninfected; helminth- T. spiralis infected; P. aeruginosa infected; and co-infected. Mice infected with T. spiralis were incubated for 6 weeks, followed by P. aeruginosa intranasal inoculation. Bronchial alveolar lavage fluid, blood and lung samples were analyzed. We found that T. spiralis induced Th2 response in the mouse lung tissue, increased lung CD4+ T cells, GATA3, IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13 expression. Pre-existing T. spiralis infection decreased lung neutrophil recruitment, inflammatory mediator IL-1β and IL-6 expression and chemokine CXCL1 and CXCL2 release during P. aeruginosa- pneumonia. Furthermore, T. spiralis co-infected mice exhibited significantly more eosinophils at 6 hours following P. aeruginosa infection, ameliorated pulmonary inflammation and improved survival in P. aeruginosa pneumonia. Conclusions: These findings indicate that a prior infection with T. spiralis ameliorates experimental pulmonary inflammation and improves survival in P. aeruginosa pneumonia through a Th2-type response with eosinophils. Author summary: Helminth infections elicit type 2 immunity, which influences host immune responses to additional threats, such as allergens, metabolic disease and other pathogens. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most common gram-negative pathogens causing pneumonia in immunocompromised patients. The mortality rate of ventilator associated pneumonia caused by P. aeruginosa is higher than that due to other pathogens. Trichinella spiralis is a zoonotic nematode of intracellular parasitism that infects a wide range of vertebrate hosts, including humans. There is a lung migratory phase in the life cycle of T. spiralis. In this study, we found that T. spiralis induced Th2 response in the mouse lung tissue. T. spiralis co-infected mice exhibited significantly more eosinophils and less neutrophils at 6 hours following P. aeruginosa infection, ameliorated pulmonary inflammation and improved survival in P. aeruginosa pneumonia. These findings suggest a pre-existing chronic helminth with a lung migration phase infection promotes the survival of bacterial airway co-infected host. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypertensive brainstem hemorrhage (HBSH) is of high morbidity and mortality rate. But many clinical studies were written in Chinese and had not been reviewed. A systemic review of Chinese clinical studies for HBSH was performed. A systemic literature search in PubMed, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Weipu database and Wanfang database up to March 2020 was performed. Clinical control studies including a surgical evacuation (SE) group and a conservative management (CM) group were included. The clinical outcome and mortality rate were compared. Ten cohort studies were included, involving 944 participants (304 in the SE group and 640 in the CM group). All included patients were comatose, with the average age ranged from 45 to 65 years old. Among five studies using mRS or GOS as outcome score, a total of 16.6% (89/535) of patients achieve self-maintenance with minor disabilities, including 26.8% (34/127) in the SE group and 13.5% (55/408) in the CM group. The overall mortality rate in the SE group was 27.6%, ranged from 9.3 to 60% among different studies. The overall mortality rate in the CM group was 60.6%, ranged from 18.5 to 100.0%. Elder and comatose HBSH patients are not contraindicated for surgery. The review showed that this group of patients obtained a better outcome and lower mortality rate after surgical treatment. The quality of included studies was relatively low, but a high-level clinical study on HBSH is of great difficulty, as both clinicians and patients faced various sociological issues rather than pure medical problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

College English classroom teaching evaluation is one of the key issues discussed by all schools at present. First of all, teachers and students are highly concerned about English learning in the compulsory course of English examination, but there are also many problems. The distance network teaching with computer technology as the main body develops rapidly, a large number of video and audio teaching resources network through the network transmission to present in front of learners, through the network transmission of video and audio aided, expand the audience of network teaching, is conducive to the realization of digitalization, information, lifelong, new education goals. Firstly, this article summarizes the problems of poor effect, uneven performance, and mismatch between evaluation and teaching in college English at present. Then, based on the previous works, the author designed a machine learning-based Internet of things technology and verifies its feasibility. The data of teaching experiments show that the writing performance of the students in the lower section of the experimental class is better than that of the students in the middle and high sections. Among them, significant progresses have been made in grammar, length, expression, and structure, which has optimized students' preclass preview efficiency, autonomous learning motivation, quality of homework completion, and afterclass reflection behavior. Finally, the author summarized the shortcomings of this research and puts forward the prospect of relevant research, in order to provide reference value for the national college English blended teaching and promotes the efficient implementation and vigorous development of college English teaching. In the future, the evaluation index system under the pressure of performance can be further studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Stearic acid-modified hydroxyapatite (SA-HAP) had high drug loading efficiency for tariquidar (TQD). • The size of SA-HAP-TQD was suitable for phagocytosis. • Cell and animal studies showed SA-HAP-TQD had sustained release characteristics. • SA-HAP-TQD could enhance brain ECF concentration of TMZ. • Combination of SA-HAP-TQD and temozolomide improved mice survival in orthotopic GL261 model. Temozolomide (TMZ) is the first line chemotherapy for glioblastoma (GBM) treatment, but the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) expressed in blood–brain barrier (BBB) will pump out TMZ from the brain leading to decreased TMZ concentration. Tariquidar (TQD), a selective and potent P-gp inhibitor, may be suitable for combination therapy to increase concentration of TMZ in brain. Hydroxyapatite (HAP) is a biodegradable material with sustained release characteristics, and stearic acid surface-modified HAP (SA-HAP) can increase hydrophobicity to facilitate TQD loading. TQD-loaded stearic acid surface-modified HAP (SA-HAP-TQD) was prepared with optimal size and high TQD loading efficiency, and in vitro release and cellular uptake of SA-HAP-TQD showed that SA-HAP-TQD were taken up into lysosome and continuously released TQD from macrophages. In vivo studies have found that over 70 % of SA-HAP was degraded and 80 % of TQD was released from SA-HAP-TQD 28 days after administration. SA-HAP-TQD could increase brain penetration of TMZ, but it would not enhance adverse effects of TMZ in healthy mice. SA-HAP-TQD and TMZ combination had longer median survival than TMZ single therapy in GL261 orthotopic model. These results suggest that SA-HAP-TQD has sustained release characteristics and are potential for improving antitumor effect with TMZ treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various policies on electric vehicles (EVs) have been implemented in Beijing to promote EV diffusion, but previous research has rarely considered the indirect network effects between EVs and EV charging infrastructures (EVCIs), and has not explored the impact of EVCI-related incentives on EV diffusion. This study aims to enrich the literature by incorporating EVCI development and indirect network effects in EV diffusion. A system dynamic model is proposed to systematically analyse the interactions among consumer, EV manufacturer and EVCI operator and simulate EV diffusion and ECVI investment in Beijing. Multiple scenarios are adopted to investigate the joint effects of the policy mix on EV diffusion. The results indicate that the oil-to-electricity subsidy promoted EVs and EVCIs to a greater extent than the license plate control policy. The EVCI maintenance policy outperformed EVCI construction and production subsidies on EV diffusion. Synergistic effects exist when the oil-to-electricity subsidy is mixed with EVCI-related incentives. This study provides implications for policymakers to promote EV diffusion with innovative and efficient policy instruments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electric vehicles (EVs) are considered a promising solution for reducing emissions in urban transportation and addressing energy crises. Several countries, including China, have implemented direct financial subsidies to encourage the adoption of EVs. However, there is a lack of comprehensive evaluation regarding the effectiveness of these subsidies and their interaction with non-financial incentive policies. Additionally, the design of subsidy policies can be endogenous, potentially leading to biased estimations of their effects on EV penetration. To address these issues, this study utilizes a "quasi-natural experiment" approach, taking advantage of the gradual reduction of nationwide EV subsidies by the Chinese government due to financial constraints, rather than market conditions, thus mitigating the endogeneity problem. The study collects panel data from 224 prefecture-level cities in China and employs a modified panel data fixed effects model to quantify the impact of financial subsidies on EV sales and market shares. The analysis focuses on subsidy variations during six periods. The main empirical findings are as follows: (1) 1 % increase in purchase subsidies leads to a 1.36 % increase in EV sales and a 2.31 % increase in EV market share. (2) Non-financial policies, such as parking benefits, promotional goals, and restrictions on the number of vehicles, also contribute to boosting EV sales. (3) The effects of purchase subsidies vary across cities with different socio-economic conditions. (4) Some non-financial policies are found to enhance the positive effects of subsidy policies. [Display omitted] • We empirically examine the impact of the purchase subsidy on EV promotion in China. • A subsidy decline due to government financial burden is used as a quasi-natural experiment. • Purchase subsidy and some non-financial policies are found to promote EVs penetration. • Heterogeneous effects of purchase subsidy on different kinds of Chinese cities are verified. • Some non-financial policies are found to enhance the positive effect of the subsidy policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pancreatic cancer is one of the common malignant tumors of the digestive system, and its clinical treatment is still very challenging. Most of the pancreatic cancer chemotherapeutic drugs have poor plasma stability, low cell uptake efficiency, and are prone to developing drug resistance and toxic side effects. Besides, pancreatic cancer often has a dense extracellular matrix, which consists of collagens, hyaluronic acid, and other proteoglycans. Among them, hyaluronic acid is a key component of the dense matrix, which results in vascular compression and insufficient perfusion, and hinders the delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs. In this study, we explore using hyaluronidase in tumor-bearing mice to eliminate the hyaluronic acid barrier, to reduce blood vessel compression and reshape the tumor microenvironment. In addition, we evaluate using doxorubicin-loaded nanoprobes to improve the stability and local tumor-killing effect of the drug. The nanoprobes have the characteristics of near-infrared optical imaging, which are used to monitor the tumor size in real-time during the treatment process, and dynamically observe the tumor inhibitory effect. The results show that elimination of the hyaluronic acid barrier combined with the doxorubicin-loaded nanoprobes can greatly increase drug penetration into tumor tissue and improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs. This study provides a novel strategy for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius), one of the most well‐known araliaceous perennial herbs, suffered from root rots and mortality in 2020 in Taibai County, Shaanxi Province, China, leading to 40%–60% yield losses. The diseased plants initially showed unevenly yellowing foliage, and yellow‐brownish, water‐soaked roots with internal softening. Subsequently, white fluffy mycelia manifested on the surface of diseased P. quinquefolius roots, followed by the appearance of black irregular sclerotia‐like bodies. In this study, a fungal isolate (SS‐TB, GenBank no. MT830866) was obtained from the infected roots. Based on the culture morphology, pathogenicity tests and phylogenetic analysis of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, this isolate was identified as Sclerotinia nivalis. The optimum temperature for mycelial growth and sclerotial production was 20 ℃ and 15 ℃, respectively; the optimum pH for mycelial growth and sclerotial production was pH 6.0. This isolate grew faster and produced more sclerotia on potato dextrose agar than on other media. It infected ginseng roots with or without wounds, but inoculation of wounded roots led to more severe disease. S. nivalis also infected 43 of the 48 plant species tested, including vegetables, fruits, oil crops, and flowering plants from Fabaceae, Asteraceae, Solanaceae, Cucurbitaceae, Brassicaceae, Apiaceae, Rosaceae, Liliaceae, Chenopodiaceae, and Orchidaceae. It was nonpathogenic on Triticum aestivum, Zea mays, Anemone vitifolia, Ipomoea batatas, and Vaccinium sp. This study is the first report of S. nivalis causing white rot on P. quinquefolius. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cementation of a highly cross‐linked polyethylene liner into a well‐fixed acetabular shell provided a good durability for liner wear. However, its efficacy in treating recurrent instability due to malposition cup is less reported. The aim of this study is to evaluate the outcome of this surgical technique to treat hip instability. From 2009 to 2019, we have identified 38 patients who had been surgically treated for recurrent instability, including cementation liner (N = 20) and revision cup (N = 18) procedures. Patients were followed for a mean of 45.66 months. We have recorded and analyzed all causes of implant failure including recurrent instability. Clinical outcomes were assessed including complication and Harris Hip Score (HHS) preoperatively and at the latest follow‐up. Revision‐free survivorship for any cause was 95.0% at 1 year, and 84.4% at 5 years in cementation liner group and 88.9% at 1 year and 5 years in revision cup group. Mean Harris hip score improved from 48.3 points preoperatively to 79.5 points at the last follow‐up in cementation liner group and mean HHS improved from 43.3 points preoperatively to 77.2 points in revision cup group. There were two implant failures in each group, including one is due to persistent hip instability and the other is due to periprosthetic joint infection in the cementation liner group and two implant failure are due to persistent hip instability in the revision cup group. Functional scores and implant survival were similar in both groups. We demonstrated that orientation correction via the cementation of the polyethylene liner into well‐fixed acetabular shell is a promising option to treat and prevent instability. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic Level IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Thyroid transcription factor-1 (TTF-1) is a useful marker for identifying thyroid and lung cancers in diagnostic pathology, particularly for the investigation of unknown primary cancers. However, some other tumors such as colorectal cancer might aberrantly express TTF-1, particularly with the less specific clone SPT24. Occasional diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) cases have been reported to be TTF-1-positive, yet there is no information on TTF-1 expression in peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL). Methods: We investigated a series of PTCL and DLBCL by immunohistochemistry for TTF-1 expression using 2 commercially available clones. Results: We found that 33% (5/15) adult T-cell leukemia/lymphomas (ATLLs) and 25% (2/8) angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphomas (AITLs) were positive by clone SPT24 and only 2ATLL cases were positive by clone 8G7G3/1. Overall TTF-1 expression rates of PTCL by SPT24 and 8G7G3/1 were 16% (7/43) and 5% (2/43), respectively. All DLBCLs were negative. Conclusion: Although TTF-1 is a relatively specific marker for thyroid and lung cancers, it might be expressed in some lymphomas, particularly PTCL when using clone SPT24. Pathologist should be aware of this possible diagnostic pitfall when using TTF-1 in investigating tumors of unknown origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Pretreatment with T. spiralis -derived protein- rTsSPI can ameliorate colitis in mice. • The rTsSPI maintains the expression of epithelial connecting adhesion molecules. • The rTsSPI increases the abundance of Bifidobacterium and Ruminoclostridium 5 bacterial genera. • Immunotherapy with rTsSPI represents an additional strategy to ameliorate inflammatory processes. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) encompasses Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. Reports have highlighted the potential use of helminths or their byproducts as a possible treatment for IBD; however, the mechanisms underlying their ability to modulate inflammation remain incompletely understood. In the present study, we analyze the possible mechanism of a serine protease inhibitor from adult T. spiralis excretion–secretion products (rTsSPI) on the improvement of colitis. The immune protective effect of rTsSPI was studied by using DSS or Salmonella -induced colitis in female C56BL/6 mice. The effect of rTsSPI on the immune and inflammatory responses, gut microbiota, permeability of colon epithelium and junction proteins was analyzed. Treating mice with rTsSPI induced type 2 immunity and significantly attenuated clinical symptoms, macroscopical and histological features of DSS or bacteria-induced colonic inflammation. This was accompanied by decreasing neutrophil recruitment in the colonic lamina propria, and reducing TNF-α mRNA levels in the colon; in contrast, the recruitment of M2 macrophages, the expression level of IL-10 and adhesion molecules increased in the colon tissue. Moreover, treatment with rTsSPI led to an improvement in gut microbiota diversity, as well as an increase in the abundance of the bacterial genera Bifidobacterium and Ruminclostridium 5. Collective findings suggest that pretreatment with rTsSPI can ameliorate colitis in mice by inducing a Th2-type response with M2 macrophages. Data also indicate that immunotherapy with rTsSPI represents an additional strategy to ameliorate inflammatory processes in IBD by enhancing probiotic colonization and maintaining intestinal epithelial barrier function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This work gives a comprehensive review of the Fano resonance in WGM resonators especially for sensing in recent years. • The development directions in the future are predicted. • This review provides insightful thoughts of Fano resonance in WGM sensing applications to the audiences who are not familiar with this area. With the advantages of high quality factor (Q) and small mode volume, whispering gallery mode (WGM) microcavities obtain lower detection limits and have been increasingly applied to the detection in physics, chemistry, and biology. The Fano resonance phenomenon, which could further improve the sensing performance in the sensitivity and detection limits because of its sharp change in phase and amplitude, has attracted wide attention and demonstrated that it could be achieved in whispering gallery mode resonators (WGMRs). Fano effect is caused by the interference between the discrete mode and the continuous mode and then shows it in the spectrum. In this paper, first, the relevant knowledge of the WGM resonator and the resonance phenomenon are introduced in detail. Second, the theory of Fano resonance is analyzed. Third, the generation methods and sensing applications of Fano resonance in WGMR in current are summarized. Finally, the existing problems and development prospects of this sensor are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traffic energy consumption estimation is significant for the sustainable transportation. However, it is difficult to directly employ macro traffic flow data to accurately estimate the traffic energy consumption due to many traffic energy consumption models need second-by-second vehicle trajectory. To solve this problem, this paper proposes a traffic energy consumption model based on the macro-micro data, which the macro data derived from the fixed-location sensors and sparse micro data derived from the Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAVs). The completed vehicle trajectories are constructed by the nonparametric kernel smoothing algorithm and variational theory. To test the performance of the proposed method, the Next Generation Simulation micro (NGSIM) dataset and Caltrans Performance Measurement System macro dataset obtained from the same road and time are used. The results indicate that the proposed method not only can reflect the characteristics of traffic kinematic waves caused by traffic congestion, but also minimize the errors generated by the macro-micro transformation. In addition, it can significantly improve the accuracy of energy consumption estimation. • Estimation of fuel consumption and emissions is closer to the real values than other methods. • Reconstructing second-by-second vehicle trajectories based on macroscopic traffic data. • Introduces CAVs trajectory data as a reference in the process of estimating the road spatio-temporal speed evolution. • Proposes a spatio-temporal consistency validation framework by using macro and micro data. • Experimental tests the effect of cell size and probe vehicle penetration on reconstruction accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To predict KRAS mutation in rectal cancer (RC) through computer vision of [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose (18F‐FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) by using metric learning (ML). Methods: This study included 160 patients with RC who had undergone preoperative PET/CT. KRAS mutation was identified through polymerase chain reaction analysis. This model combined ML with the deep‐learning framework to analyze PET data with or without CT images. The Batch Balance Wrapper framework and K‐fold cross‐validation were employed during the learning process. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to assess the model's predictive performance. Results: Genetic alterations in KRAS were identified in 82 (51%) tumors. Both PET and CT images were used, and the proposed model had an area under the ROC curve of 0.836 for its ability to predict a mutation status. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 75.3%, 79.3%, and 77.5%, respectively. When PET images alone were used, the area under the curve was 0.817, whereas the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 73.2%, 79.6%, and 76.2%, respectively. Conclusions: The ML model presented herein revealed that baseline 18F‐FDG PET/CT images could provide supplemental information to determine KRAS mutation in RC. Additional studies are required to maximize the predictive accuracy. Advances in knowledge: The results of the ML model presented herein indicate that baseline 18F‐FDG PET/CT images could provide supplemental information for determining KRAS mutation in RC. The predictive accuracy of the model was 77.5% when both image types were used and 76.2% when PET images alone were used. Additional studies are required to maximize the predictive accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work investigated the effects of hot air drying pretreatment (HAD), freeze drying pretreatment (FD) and vacuum drying pretreatment (VD) on the physicochemical properties and structural characterizations of starch isolated from canistels. X-ray diffraction displayed that the starches separated from canistel by different drying pretreatments showed a typical A-type crystal structure. The SEM image showed that cracks and debris appeared on the surface of HVD and VD particles. The molecular structure of starches obtained by different drying pretreatments was studied using Fourier infrared and solid state 13C CP/MAS NMR analysis. The results indicated that vacuum drying pretreatment could promote the formation of the double helix of starch granules, and hot air drying and freeze drying destroyed the ordered structure of starch granules. These structural changed to affect the physicochemical properties of starch granules. The study of different drying pretreatments to separate starches provided practical value for drying pretreatments. Furthermore, the current study affords information for canistel starches cultivated in China that would be convenient for commercial applications. • Different drying pretreatments impact properties of canistel starches. • Hot-air drying pretreatments had the least impact on structure of canistel starches. • Freeze-drying disrupted the ordered structure of starch granules. • Vacuum drying could improve the formation of double helix within the granules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There has been a recent surge of interest in the development of the Judgement Bias Test (JBT) as a translational assay and objective measure of depressive interpretation bias. Judgement bias, namely the tendency of favoring an approach/avoidance response towards ambiguous cues, is thought to reflect a biased interpretation or anticipation of the cues. However, no study has examined the relationship between judgement bias and depressive interpretation bias. Methods: We validated the JBT against established measurements of interpretation bias in a college sample (Study 1) and an adolescent sample (Study 2). Results: In both samples, a negative judgement bias was significantly associated with a depressive interpretation bias. However, the strength of the associations was only moderate and failed to meet the minimum qualification of convergent validity. Conclusions: Our results suggest that judgement bias and interpretation bias might be related but distinct. The JBT should not be used as an indirect assessment of interpretation bias in its current form, and it would be premature to claim that animal studies using the JBT could inform our understanding of cognitive biases in mood disorders. Nevertheless, the JBT might be useful for studying specific mechanisms, such as reward processing under ambiguity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sea urchin Mesocentrotus nudus, Glyptocidaris crenularis, and Strongylocentrotus intermedius gonad protein isolates (mnGPIs, gcGPIs, and siGPIs) were extracted by isoelectric solubilization/precipitation (ISP) from the defatted gonads, and their functional properties were compared. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis results showed the similar protein pattern between each protein isolate and defatted gonad, indicating the high efficiency of ISP processing for protein recovery. Amino acid profileconfirmed that the mnGPIs and siGPIs could be potential sources of essential amino acid in nature. As regard to functional properties, mnGPIs showed higher water‐ and oil‐ holding capacities followed bysiGPIs and gcGPIs and all protein isolates presented great foaming property. As for emulsifying activity index (EAI), mnGPIs, gcGPIs, and siGPIs showed the minimum solubility and EAI at pH 5, 3, and 4, respectively, and behaved a pH‐dependent manner. The gcGPIs revealed the highest EAI from pH 6 to 8 among the samples. In addition, circular dichroism showed increased content of β‐sheet at the expense of α‐helix and β‐turn, suggesting the structure denaturation of the protein isolates. Indeed, no statistical difference was observed between secondary structure of mnGPIs and siGPIs. Moreover, ISP processing increased free sulfhydryl content of sea urchin protein isolates, but no difference was observed among the samples. Furthermore, siGPIs revealed the highest amount of total sulfhydryl and disulfide bonds, whereas both defatted gonads and protein isolates from G. crenularis presented the maximum surface hydrophobicity. These results suggest that gonad protein isolates from three species of sea urchin possess various functionalities and therefore can be potentially applied in food system. Practical Application: Sea urchin M. nudus, G. crenularis, and S. intermedius gonads are edible, whereas the functional properties of protein isolates from sea urchin gonad remain unknown. In this case, the extraction and comparison of three species of sea urchin gonad protein isolates will not only confirm functional properties but also screen food ingredients with suitable functions. In this study, functionalities of protein isolates derived from M. nudus, G. crenularis, and S. intermedius gonads would provide potential application in bakery food and meat products or as emulsifier candidates in food system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study comprehensively analyses the robustness of urban road networks through topological indices based on the complex network theory and operational indices based on traffic assignment theory: User Equilibrium (UE), System Optimum (SO), and Price of Anarchy (POA). Analysing topological indices may pin down the most important nodes for URNs from the perspective of connectivity, while more sophisticated operational indices are helpful to examine the importance of nodes for URNs by taking into account link capacity, travel demand, and drivers' behaviour. The previous way is calculated in a static way, which reduces the computation times and increases the efficiency for quick assessment of the robustness of URNs, while the latter is in a dynamic way, namely, calculating is based on removal of individual nodes, although this way is more likely to capture realistic meanings but consumes huge amount of time. The efforts made in this study try to find the relationship between topological and operational indices so as to assist the assessment of robustness of URNs to local disruptions. Seven realistic urban road networks such as Sioux Falls and Anaheim are used as network examples, and results show that different indices reflect robustness characteristics of urban road networks from different ways, and rank correlations between any two indices are poor although small network such as Sioux Falls have better correlations than others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate outcomes of internal fixation for displaced femoral neck fracture (FNF) between 50 and 60 years old. The patient and surgical factors for the failure were identified. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the records of 102 displaced FNF patients between 50 and 60 years old (mean age 54.9 years) who had undergone internal fixation between 2005 and 2016. The minimum follow-up was 12 months. Primary end points included loss of reduction, non-union, and osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). Preoperative Pauwel's angle, fixation timing and methods, reduction quality, removal of implant and medical comorbidities were analysed. Results: The overall failure rate was 44.1%. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, poor reduction quality (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 4.38; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.54–12.46) and internal fixation delayed more than 6 hours (aOR 3.24; 95% CI, 1.08–9.69) were risk factors for all causes of failure. In a stratified analysis, poor reduction quality (aOR 3.81; 95% CI, 1.11–13.04) and a history of alcohol dependency (aOR 4.91; 95% CI, 1.09–22.13) were risk factors for loss of reduction. Internal fixation delayed >6 hours (aOR 3.67; 95% CI, 1.05–12.77) and removal of implant (aOR 3.32; 95% CI, 1.02–10.77) were risk factors for ONFH. Conclusions: The outcome of internal fixation of displaced FNF in patients between 50 and 60 years old is suboptimal. The patient selection is important. Non-alcohol dependency lowered early failure. Implant retention reduced ONFH. Surgery within 6 hours and good quality of reduction yield better results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural polymeric proteins, isolated from scallop gonad, had already shown promise as a potent nutraceutical. The purpose of this study was to fabricate scallop gonad protein isolates (SGPIs) as a natural alternative emulsifier designed for improving the physicochemical stability of β-carotene (BC). The influence of carrier oil, including long- and medium-chain triglycerides (LCT/MCT), on the physicochemical stability of BC emulsions was investigated. The SGPI-stabilized BC emulsions were characterized in terms of viscosity, particle diameter, zeta-potential, atomic force microscopy (AFM), cryogenic scanning electron microscopy (cryo-SEM), and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Compared to SGPI-MCT emulsions, SGPI-LCT emulsions had better resistance to high ionic strengths and thermal treatment. During the 30-day storage period, the particle diameter, zeta-potential, and BC degradation of both emulsions had a great change at 37 °C than at 25 or 4 °C, and the variation of SGPI-MCT emulsions was more obvious than that of SGPI-LCT, which could be attributed to the high viscosity of SGPI-LCT emulsions. These results indicate that SGPIs can be applied in protecting lipophilic bioactives by using emulsion-based systems, in which LCT oil was more effective for encapsulating and protecting BC than MCT oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with plates and screws is one of the treatment options for clavicle fractures. However, an additional operation for implant removal after union of the fracture is commonly performed due to a high incidence of hardware irritation. Despite union of the fracture, a subsequent refracture might occur after removal of the implant which requires additional surgeries for fixation. This study aims to determine the risk factors associated with refracture of the clavicle after hardware removal. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 278 patients that were diagnosed with a midshaft clavicle fracture (male 190; female 88) that had (1) undergone ORIF of the clavicle with plates and (2) received a second operation for removal of hardware after solid union of the fracture between 2010 and 2017. Their mean age was 40.1 ± 15.1 years, and mean interval from fixation to plate removal was 12.5 ± 7.5 months. The patients were then divided into two groups based on the presence of refracture (n = 20) or without refracture (n = 258). We analyzed patient demographics, interval between fixation and implant removal, fracture classification (AO/OTA, Robinson), fixation device, whether wires or interfragmentary screws were used, clavicular length, and bone diameter at the fracture site. Results: The overall refracture rate was 7.2%, and the mean interval between plate removal and refracture was 23.9 days. A multivariate analysis showed that female (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 4.74; 95% CI 1.6–14.1) and body mass index [BMI] (for every 1-unit decrease, aOR 1.25; 95% CI 1.06–1.48) were risk factors for refracture. In women, BMI was the only risk factor. The optimal BMI cutoff value was 22.73. In a female patient with a lower BMI, the refracture rate was 29.8%. Conclusions: There are no significant radiographic parameters associated with refracture. Routine plate removal in a female patient with a low BMI after bony union of a midshaft clavicle fracture is not recommended because of a high refracture rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We designed a deep learning model for assessing 18F-FDG PET/CT for early prediction of local and distant failures for patients with locally advanced cervical cancer.Methods: All 142 patients with cervical cancer underwent 18F-FDG PET/CT for pretreatment staging and received allocated treatment. To augment the amount of image data, each tumor was represented as 11 slice sets each of which contains 3 2D orthogonal slices to acquire a total of 1562 slice sets. In each round of k-fold cross-validation, a well-trained proposed model and a slice-based optimal threshold were derived from a training set and used to classify each slice set in the test set into the categories of with or without local or distant failure. The classification results of each tumor were aggregated to summarize a tumor-based prediction result.Results: In total, 21 and 26 patients experienced local and distant failures, respectively. Regarding local recurrence, the tumor-based prediction result summarized from all test sets demonstrated that the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy were 71%, 93%, 63%, 95%, and 89%, respectively. The corresponding values for distant metastasis were 77%, 90%, 63%, 95%, and 87%, respectively.Conclusion: This is the first study to use deep learning model for assessing 18F-FDG PET/CT images which is capable of predicting treatment outcomes in cervical cancer patients.Key Points: • This is the first study to use deep learning model for assessing 18 F-FDG PET/CT images which is capable of predicting treatment outcomes in cervical cancer patients. • All 142 patients with cervical cancer underwent 18 F-FDG PET/CT for pretreatment staging and received allocated treatment. To augment the amount of image data, each tumor was represented as 11 slice sets each of which contains 3 2D orthogonal slices to acquire a total of 1562 slice sets. • For local recurrence, all test sets demonstrated that the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy were 71%, 93%, 63%, 95%, and 89%, respectively. The corresponding values for distant metastasis were 77%, 90%, 63%, 95%, and 87%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This article reported the gelation and microstructural properties of scallop male gonads hydrolysates (SMGHs) in the presence of κ-Carrageenan (κ-C) and treated or untreated with potassium chloride (KCl). The presence of κ-C significantly increased the elastic moduli (10.3–449.5 Pa) and melting temperature (32.7–46.7 °C) of SMGHs. The decrease in the relaxation time (T 21 , T 23) signified the strong binding between SMGHs and κ-C. The blue shift in the amide I and II peals coupled with a new band of 1159 cm−1 in SMGHs/κ-C further demonstrated the electrostatic interactions between SMGHs and κ-C. κ-C rose the percentage of β-sheets from 28.10% to 35.93% but at the expense of α-helix and β-turn fractions and highly ebbed the intrinsic fluorescence of SMGHs. Such scenarios resulted in a more compact network formation and flocculation of κ-C chains. The salt-treatment to κ-C promoted helical formation, however, presence of SMGHs created larger interstitial spaces in the κ-C network due to aggregates of SMGHs and decreased the overall gel strength. The outcome promises novel opportunities in the design and development of functional hydrogels based on protein and polysaccharide complexes for food, pharmaceutical and biomedical applications. Graphical abstract Image 1 • Synergistic effectongelation occursbetweenκ-carrageenan(κ-C)and SMGHs. • Synergistic effect of κ-C on SMGHs may be attributed to the water migration in gel system. • Positive patches of SMGHs and sulfate groups of κ-C entangle by electrostatic interaction. • κ-C-κ-C connections hold the entire networkwhile SMGHsentrapintothisnetwork. • SMGHs appear to create larger interstitial spaces inκC/KClnetwork decreasinggel strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: In tropical rainforests, seedling performance at fine ecological scales has traditionally been explained by seed dispersal limitation and negative density dependence. Soil properties have strong patch structures at fine scales, and we investigated whether such heterogeneity contributes to seedling coexistence. Methods: From January 2011 to January 2014, in a one-hectare area of tropical rainforest in Southwest China, we sampled seedlings from ninety-nine 2-m2 quadrats, and measured light condition (canopy openness), and the height (>10 cm) of seedlings at bi-monthly intervals. In addition, we measured soil pH, total nitrogen, ammonium, nitrate, and available phosphorus and potassium three times during the survey period. These data were used to examine the effects of soil properties and light on seedling spatial distribution, survival, and growth. Results: Seedling spatial distribution was significantly associated with light and spatial heterogeneity in all the examined soil properties except available K. These fine scale soil properties and light heterogeneity also promoted seedling growth, whereas they had no discernible effects on seedling survival. Conclusion: This study highlights the effects of fine scale soil property heterogeneity on seedling spatial distribution and growth, and indicates their importance in the maintenance of seedling biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal malignancies worldwide. The existing therapeutic regimen in the clinic for advanced inoperable carcinomas are far from satisfactory, thus it is urgent to seek more effective anticancer strategies. In the pursuit of novel, more effective interventions, photothermal therapy (PTT) based on nanomaterials has attracted increased attention. Recent advances in related fields have catalyzed the generation of novel nanoprobes, such as organic dyes, metal nanoparticles. However, organic dyes are poorly stable and easy to quench while metal nanoparticles with potential metal toxicity are difficult to degrade, both of which have low light-to-heat conversion efficiency, broad spectrum of anti-tumor effects, and lack of tumor targeting specificity. Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) can remedy the above inadequacies. Herein, we report our water-soluble, bio-stable and low-toxicity SWNTs with excellent photothermal conversion efficiency. Specific modifications can enable visualization of the aggregate characteristics of SWNTs at the macroscopic or microscopic level in tumors. The dye-conjugated SWNTs bound with targeting antibodies that can induce them specifically targeting to pancreatic tumors for purposes of performing dyes imaging-guided cytotoxic PTT. PTT using this method achieves precise and excellent curative effects with minimal adverse effects, thus providing a promising strategy for anticancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To understand the association between genetic mutations and radiomics of 2-deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-D-glucose ([18F]FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/x-ray computed tomography (CT) in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC).Procedures: This study included 74 CRC patients who had undergone preoperative [18F]FDG PET/CT. A total of 65 PET/CT-related features including intensity, volume-based, histogram, and textural features were calculated. High-resolution melting methods were used for genetic mutation analysis.Results: Genetic mutants were found in 21 KRAS tumors (28 %), 31 TP53 tumors (42 %), and 17 APC tumors (23 %). Tumors with a mutated KRAS had an increased value at the 25th percentile of maximal standardized uptake value (SUVmax) within their metabolic tumor volume (MTV) (P < .0001; odds ratio [OR] 1.99; 95 % confidence interval [CI] 1.37-2.90) and their contrast from the gray-level cooccurrence matrix (P = .005; OR 1.52; 95 % CI 1.14-2.04). A mutated TP53 was associated with an increased value of short-run low gray-level emphasis derived from the gray-level run length matrix (P = .001; OR 243006.0; 95 % CI 59.2-996,872,313). APC mutants exhibited lower low gray-level zone emphasis derived from the gray-level zone length matrix (P = .006; OR < .0001; 95 % CI 0.000-0.22).Conclusion: PET/CT-derived radiomics can provide supplemental information to determine KRAS, TP53, and APC genetic alterations in CRC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Compelling evidence has yet to be published regarding the positive effect of psychoeducational interventions (PEIs) on psychological distress in patients with breast cancer. The impact of PEIs on self-efficacy, resilience, and quality of life is also unclear. Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess the effects of a PEI on anxiety, depression, disease-specific care knowledge, self-efficacy, resilience and quality of life in patients with breast cancer during and after chemotherapy. The intervention was administered before and during five rounds of chemotherapy treatment. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted. Patients with breast cancer (N = 40) were randomly assigned to either the experimental or control group. The experimental group participated in PEI, a brief and highly structured program consisting of two parts: (a) an educational manual that addressed depression, anxiety, disease-specific care knowledge, self-efficacy, and resilience and (b) a self-assessment of learning. The control group received only traditional pamphlet education. Data were collected at four time points: before the first chemotherapy session (T1), during the third chemotherapy session (T2), during the fifth chemotherapy session (T3), and at 2 weeks after the final chemotherapy session (T4). Results: Anxiety, depression, resilience, and quality of life in the experimental group showed significant differences at T4. Significant differences became apparent at T2 for knowledge and at T3 for self-efficacy. The effects of knowledge, resilience, and quality of life remained significant when group and time interactions were included in the model, showing a positive relationship between PEI and the variables of knowledge, resilience, and quality of life. Conclusions/Implications for Practice: Face-to-face PEI for patients with breast cancer is potentially effective in improving knowledge, resilience, and quality of life during and after chemotherapy. In the current study, PEI significantly improved disease care techniques, reduced chemotherapy-related discomfort, and improved quality of life for participants in the experimental group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Extracellular vesicles (EV) are cell-originated vesicles exhibited with characteristics similar to the parent cells. Several studies have suggested the therapeutic potential of EV since they played as an intercellular communicator and modulate disease microenvironment, and thus EV has been widely studied in cancer management and tissue regeneration. However, merely application of EV revealed limited therapeutic outcome in different disease scenario and co-administration of drugs may be necessary to exert proper therapeutic effect. The method of drug loading into EV and efficient delivery of the formulation is therefore important. In this review, the advantages of using EV as drug delivery system compared to traditional synthetic nanoparticles will be emphasized, followed by the method of preparing EV and drug loading. The pharmacokinetic characteristics of EV was discussed, together with the review of reported delivery strategies and related application of EV in different disease management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Few data are available on the tolerance of reirradiation in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study determined the clinical parameters contributing to the development of radiation-induced liver disease (RILD).Methods: We included 36 patients with HCC who received 2 courses of radiotherapy (RT) to the liver. Using α/β = 15 for tumor and α/β =8 for normal liver tissue for biologically equivalent doses in 2 Gy fractions, mean cumulative to the hepatic tumor and normal liver were 87.7 Gy15 and 31.1 Gy8, respectively. Hepatic toxicities were classified according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, Version 4.0. Clinical data, including liver function test results, radiological study findings, and RT parameters before and after both courses of RT were retrieved for analysis. Using multivariate analysis, logistic regression was used to identify the predictors of RILD, and Cox regression was performed to explore the prognostic factors for overall survival (OS).Results: Thirteen patients (36 %) developed RILD after reirradiation. Nine of them died because of progressive liver failure without evidence of tumor progression and were categorized to have lethal RILD. A pretreatment Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) score ≥6 was the only predictor of RILD [odds ratio (OR): 15.83, p = 0.001] and lethal RILD [OR: 72.56, p = 0.005]. In addition, a CTP score ≥6 and the presence of portal vein tumor thrombosis before reirradiation were 2 prognostic factors for OS.Conclusion: Despite a limited sample size, residual liver function using a preirradiation CTP score ≥6 is a clinical parameter associated with an increased risk of RILD in patients requiring hepatic reirradiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the clinical outcomes, radiographic results and fusion rate of ACDF between empty PEEK cages and PEEK cages packed with β-tricalcium phosphate.Methods: Forty-five patients were prospectively enrolled with cervical degenerative disc disease who requiring ACDF with a PEEK cage. 23 patients were randomised to the study group (empty cages) and 22 patients were in the control group (cages filled with β-tricalcium phosphate). Both patient groups were fixed with a cervical locking plate. A CT scan was performed 12 months postoperatively and 24 months if not confirmed fused at 12 months to evaluate the status of fusion. Clinical status was evaluated using the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS).Results: 46 levels (97.88%) in the study group and 44 levels (97.77%) in the control group were confirmed as fused at 24 months. There was no significant difference between the fusion rates observed in the study and control groups (p = 0.82). There was no significant difference in JOA, ODI, or VAS scores at 24 months follow-up. The results showed that the members of the non-fusion group tended to be older than the individuals in the fusion group at 12 months, but was not significant in statistics.Conclusions: Similar fusion rates and clinical outcomes were achieved when using ACDF with PEEK cages and instrumentation, regardless of whether the cage was filled with bone substitute at 24 months follow-up. Fusion rates improved over time and are comparable between both groups. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Two-stage reconstruction with total implant removal and re-implantation after infection control is considered the gold standard treatment for infection after hip arthroplasty. However, removal of the well-fixed stem or cup may cause substantial bone loss and other complications, thereby making reconstruction difficult. We evaluated whether an infection post total hip arthroplasty can be treated without removal of the radiographically and clinically well-fixed femoral stem or acetabular cup.Methods: Patients with a chronic infection after total hip arthroplasty, with a radiographically well-fixed, cementless stem or cup, were selected. During the first surgical stage, we retained the stem or cup if we were unable to remove these with a stem or cup extractor. An antibiotic-impregnated cement spacer was then implanted. After control of infection (C-reactive protein level within normal value), we performed the second stage of re-implantation surgery. Treatment failure was defined as uncontrolled infection requiring removal of the retained implant.Results: From January 2004 to December 2013, 16 patients underwent partial component-retained two stage reconstruction. Thirteen patients (81.3%) were free of infection, with a mean follow-up time of five years. The remaining three patients, who had high-risk comorbidities and, of whom, two were infected by high-virulence organisms, had uncontrolled infection and required further surgery to remove the retained implant.Conclusions: Partial component-retained two-stage reconstruction could be an alternative treatment option for chronic infection after an uncemented total hip arthroplasty with a radiographically and clinically well-fixed component in selected patients, who are not immunocompromised and are infected by a low-virulence organism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In this study, we investigated the correlation between the lymph node (LN) status or histological types and textural features of cervical cancers on F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the imaging records of 170 patients with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage IB-IVA cervical cancer. Four groups of textural features were studied in addition to the maximum standardized uptake value (SUV), metabolic tumor volume, and total lesion glycolysis (TLG). Moreover, we studied the associations between the indices and clinical parameters, including the LN status, clinical stage, and histology. Receiver operating characteristic curves were constructed to evaluate the optimal predictive performance among the various textural indices. Quantitative differences were determined using the Mann-Whitney U test. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the independent factors, among all the variables, for predicting LN metastasis. Results: Among all the significant indices related to pelvic LN metastasis, homogeneity derived from the gray-level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM) was the sole independent predictor. By combining SUV, the risk of pelvic LN metastasis can be scored accordingly. The TLG was the independent feature of positive para-aortic LNs. Quantitative differences between squamous and nonsquamous histology can be determined using short-zone emphasis (SZE) from the gray-level size zone matrix (GLSZM). Conclusion: This study revealed that in patients with cervical cancer, pelvic or para-aortic LN metastases can be predicted by using textural feature of homogeneity from the GLCM and TLG respectively. SZE from the GLSZM is the sole feature associated with quantitative differences between squamous and nonsquamous histology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surgical treatment strategies for proximal femur metastasis have been reported with mixed results. Little is known about risk factor for implant failure except for longer patient survival. Therefore, we determined whether implant survivorship differed among treatment strategies, as well as risk factors for implant failure. We retrospectively reviewed a consecutive 106 patients with proximal femur metastasis treated with prosthesis replacement ( n = 38), intramedullary nail ( n = 32), and dynamic hip screw (DHS) ( n = 36). Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) scale and Karnofsky index were used to evaluate functional outcome. Patient characteristics and postoperative ambulatory performance status were assessed for their values in determining implant failure. Overall implant failure rate was 11.3% (12 of 106). Prosthesis replacement was related to better implant survivorship ( P = 0.041), without mechanical failures. On the contrary, 7 of the 10 implant failures in the fixation group were considered mechanical failures. Better postoperative ambulatory status (ECOG ≤ 2) was a risk factor for implant failure ( P = 0.03). Notably, for patients with poor ambulatory status (ECOG ≥ 3), implant survivorship was not different among choice of implants. In conclusion, prosthesis replacement would be a more durable option in the treatment of proximal femur metastasis. Postoperative ambulatory status could be an additional consideration. For patients with poor expected ambulatory performance status, fixation with intramedullary nail or DHS might be considered for a less technical demanding procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study investigated the correlation of the matrix heterogeneity of tumors on F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) with gene-expression profiling in patients with pharyngeal cancer and determined the prognostic factors for radiotherapy-based treatment outcomes. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the records of 57 patients with stage III-IV oropharyngeal or hypopharyngeal cancer who had completed definitive therapy. Four groups of the textural features as well as 31 indices were studied in addition to maximum standard uptake value, metastatic tumor volume, and total lesion glycolysis. Immunohistochemical data from pretreatment biopsy specimens ( Glut1, CAIX, VEGF, HIF-1α, EGFR, Ki-67, Bcl-2, CLAUDIN-4, YAP-1, c-Met, and p16) were analyzed. The relationships between the indices and genomic expression were studied, and the robustness of various textural features relative to cause-specific survival and primary relapse-free survival was analyzed. Results: The overexpression of VEGF was positively associated with the increased values of the matrix heterogeneity obtained using gray-level nonuniformity for zone (GLNUz) and run-length nonuniformity (RLNU). Advanced T stage ( p = 0.01, hazard ratio [HR] = 3.38), a VEGF immunoreactive score of >2 ( p = 0.03, HR = 2.79), and a higher GLNUz value ( p = 0.04, HR = 2.51) were prognostic factors for low cause-specific survival, whereas advanced T stage, a HIF-1α staining percentage of ≥80%, and a higher GLNUz value were prognostic factors for low primary-relapse free survival. Conclusions: The overexpression of VEGF was associated with the increased matrix index of GLNUz and RLNU. For patients with pharyngeal cancer requiring radiotherapy, the treatment outcome can be stratified according to the textural features, T stage, and biomarkers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When a proton exchange membrane fuel cell is operated in a dead-ended anode mode, nitrogen and water will diffuse from the cathode to the anode and accumulate in the anode channel. Accumulated nitrogen and water cause hydrogen depletion in the channel and reduce the performance of the fuel cell. This performance drop can be recovered by opening the purge valve at the anode outlet. However, unused hydrogen is purged out of the anode with nitrogen and water, causing the decrease of energy efficiency. To study the effect of the purge strategy on energy efficiency, a mathematical model capable of capturing the variation of the gas composition along the anode channel is developed. The effects of operating current density and purge strategy on the time evolutions of local current density and gas composition are presented. The optimum energy efficiency with respect to the purge duration of the purge valve is also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study examined genomic factors associated with a reduction in fluoro-2-deoxy- D-glucose (FDG) uptake during positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) for definitive chemoradiotherapy (CRT) in patients with pharyngeal cancer. Methods: The pretreatment and interim PET-CT images of 25 patients with advanced pharyngeal cancers receiving definitive CRT were prospectively evaluated. The maximum standardized uptake value (SUV) of the interim PET-CT and the reduction ratio of the SUV (SRR) between the two images were measured. Genomic data from pretreatment incisional biopsy specimens ( SLC2A1, CAIX, VEGF, HIF1A, BCL2, Claudin-4, YAP1, MET, MKI67, and EGFR) were analyzed using tissue microarrays. Differences in FDG uptake and SRRs between tumors with low and high gene expression were examined using the Mann-Whitney test. Cox regression analysis was performed to examine the effects of variables on local control. Results: The SRR of the primary tumors (SRR-P) was 0.59 ± 0.31, whereas the SRR of metastatic lymph nodes (SRR-N) was 0.54 ± 0.32. Overexpression of HIF1A was associated with a high iSUV of the primary tumor ( P < 0.001) and neck lymph node ( P = 0.04) and a low SRR-P ( P = 0.02). Multivariate analysis revealed that patients who had tumors with low SRR-P or high HIF1A expression levels showed inferior local control. Conclusion: In patients with pharyngeal cancer requiring CRT, HIF1A overexpression was positively associated with high interim SUV or a slow reduction in FDG uptake. Prospective trials are needed to determine whether the local control rate can be stratified using the HIF1A level as a biomarker and SRR-P. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve the adhesion and blood-compatibility of the titanium substrate coated with heparin/collagen multilayers, an oxidized dopamine was applied as the interlayer between the multilayers and the substrate. The oxidation condition of the dopamine interlayer was achieved by treating the dopamine solution under an atmospheric environment for 8 h. A dopamine interlayer built in a pure nitrogen environment was used as a benchmark. 4 and 9 multilayers were also built and studied for both samples. The film thickness was evaluated by the cross-sectional technique of focused ion beam microscopy. The hydrophilicity and surface topography of the films were investigated by water contact angle measurement and scanning electron microscopy. The adhesion of the multilayers was studied with scratch tests. The amount of heparin that attached to the samples was measured by toluidine blue O test. The hemocompatibility was verified by the platelet coverage area, activated partial thromboplastin time, and hemolysis ratio in vitro . The results indicated that the oxidized dopamine not only enhanced the uniformity and thickness of heparin/collagen multilayers on a titanium substrate but also promoted the sample's adhesion and hemocompatibility, especially that with a larger number of multilayers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to compare postoperative complications among different acetabular and femoral components of hip arthroplasty for failed intertrochanteric fractures. A total of 79 patients were included and followed-up for an average of 75.6 months (range, 24-244). Fifty-five patients underwent total hip arthroplasty, and 24 had bipolar hemiarthroplasty. Cementless metaphyseal locking, cementless diaphyseal locking, and cemented standard stems were used in 41, 29, and 9 patients, respectively. Dislocation and wear rate were not different between the total hip arthroplasty and bipolar hemiarthroplasty groups. Stem subsidence or loosening was more frequently found in the cementless, metaphyseal locking stem groups. In conclusion, cemented standard stem and cementless diaphyseal locking stem might be better implant choices. With regard to dislocation rate, our results were insufficient to conclude a better implant choice of total hip arthroplasty or bipolar hemiarthroplasty than the other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Spatial aggregation of soil chemical properties, or nutrient patches, may be generated by topography and plants and can seasonally fluctuate because of climate. Whether nutrient patches maintain consistency (no change in ranking through sequential sampling), through temporal scales, and whether topography and litterfall contribute to the persistence of such ranking is rarely tested. Methods: In a 1-ha tropical rainforest plot in Southwest China, we measured soil pH, total N, NH-N, NO-N, and available P and K for four times and assessed the patch structure (patterns of patch distribution) and their temporal consistency. We then tested how structure and consistency of chemical soil properties were affected by topography and chemical inputs from litterfall. Results: All soil chemical properties showed significant seasonal fluctuations, but patch consistency was higher for soil pH, total N, and available P and K compared to NH-N or NO-N. Topography influenced pH patch consistency while annual litterfall input was important for maintaining patch consistency in total N and available P and K. Conclusions: Fine-scale consistency of patches in soil pH, total N, and available P and K suggest they may exert stable selection pressures on species for niche differentiation, while consistency of soil NH-N and NO-N require further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Motion sickness (MS) is a common experience of travelers. To provide insights into brain dynamics associated with MS, this study recruited 19 subjects to participate in an electroencephalogram (EEG) experiment in a virtual-reality driving environment. When riding on consecutive winding roads, subjects experienced postural instability and sensory conflict between visual and vestibular stimuli. Meanwhile, subjects rated their level of MS on a six-point scale. Independent component analysis (ICA) was used to separate the filtered EEG signals into maximally temporally independent components (ICs). Then, reduced logarithmic spectra of ICs of interest, using principal component analysis, were decomposed by ICA again to find spectrally fixed and temporally independent modulators (IMs). Results demonstrated that a higher degree of MS accompanied increased activation of alpha () and gamma () IMs across remote-independent brain processes, covering motor, parietal and occipital areas. This co-modulatory spectral change in alpha and gamma bands revealed the neurophysiological demand to regulate conflicts among multi-modal sensory systems during MS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Labile soil organic matter (SOM) plays a crucial role in nutrient and carbon cycling, particularly in permafrost ecosystems. Understanding its variation is therefore very important. In the present study, we evaluated the seasonal patterns of labile SOM from April 2013 to March 2014 under alpine swamp meadow (ASM), meadow (AM), steppe (AS) and desert (AD) vegetation in permafrost regions of the China's Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. The fractions (0 to 10 cm depth) included dissolved organic carbon (DOC), light-fraction carbon (LFC) and nitrogen (LFN), and microbial biomass carbon (MBC) and nitrogen (MBN). These fractions showed dramatic seasonal patterns in ASM and AM soils, but were relatively stable in AD soil. Soil DOC concentrations in the ASM, AM, and AD soils increased from April to May 2013, then increased again from July to August 2013 and from February to March 2014. The LFC and LFN concentrations in all four vegetation types were higher from June to August 2013. The highest MBC and MBN concentrations in the ASM, AM, and AS soils all occurred in the summer and the ASM soil showed a second peak in October or November 2013. Seasonal changes in climatic factors, vegetation types, and permafrost features were great causes of labile SOM variations in this study. Throughout the entire sampling period, the ASM soil generally had the highest labile SOM, followed by the AM, AS, and AD soils; thus, the ASM soil is the best system conserving soil nutrient (especially labile fractions) and microbial activity. Correlation analysis indicated that these fractions were not related to soil moisture and temperature in AS or AD soils, but soil temperature and moisture were significantly related to MBC and MBN in AM soil and DOC in ASM soil. Thus, the response of the labile SOM fractions in this high-altitude permafrost soils to climate change depended strongly on vegetation types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological networks are open systems that can utilize nutrients and energy from their environment for use in their metabolic processes, and produce metabolic products. System entropy is defined as the difference between input and output signal entropy, i.e., the net signal entropy of the biological system. System entropy is an important indicator for living or non-living biological systems, as biological systems can maintain or decrease their system entropy. In this study, system entropy is determined for the first time for stochastic biological networks, and a computation method is proposed to measure the system entropy of nonlinear stochastic biological networks that are subject to intrinsic random fluctuations and environmental disturbances. We find that intrinsic random fluctuations could increase the system entropy, and that the system entropy is inversely proportional to the robustness and stability of the biological networks. It is also determined that adding feedback loops to shift all eigenvalues to the farther left-hand plane of the complex s-domain could decrease the system entropy of a biological network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]