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Background: Non-invasive imaging methods are still lacking for evaluating bone changes in chronic kidney diseases (CKD). Purpose: To investigate the feasibility of chest CT radiomics in evaluating bone changes caused by CKD. Material and Methods: In total, 75 patients with stage 1 CKD (CKD1) and 75 with stage 5 CKD (CKD5) were assessed using the chest CT radiomics method. Radiomics features of bone were obtained using 3D Slicer software and were then compared between CKD1 and CKD5 cases. The methods of maximum correlation minimum redundancy (mRMR) and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) were used to establish a prediction model to determine CKD. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to determine the performance of the model. Results: Cases of CKD1 and CKD5 differed in 40 radiomics features (P <0.05). Using the mRMR and LASSO methods, five features were finally selected to establish a predication model. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the model in the determination of CKD1 and CKD5 was 0.903 and 0.854, respectively, for the training and validation cohorts. Conclusion: Chest CT radiomics is feasible in evaluating bone changes caused by CKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Esophagectomy is regarded as one of the optimal treatments for resectable esophageal cancer. However, the impact of surgical approach on the long-term prognosis of esophageal cancer remains controversial. This study attempted to compare the long-term survival outcomes of patients receiving left and right thoracic esophagectomy for esophageal cancer. Methods: A total of 985 patients underwent esophagectomy (including 453 left and 532 right thoracic approach) for esophageal cancer in Henan Cancer Hospital from January 2015 to December 2016 were enrolled. Their 5 year overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were retrospectively collected. Cox regression was performed to compare OS and DFS in patients who underwent left and right thoracic esophagectomy. Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was used to balance confounding factors. Results: The 5 year OS rates were 60.21% in the left and 51.60% in the right thoracic esophagectomy, respectively (P = 0.67). The 5 year DFS rates were 56.73% in the left and 47.93% and in the right thoracic esophagectomy, respectively (P = 0.36). Cox regression analysis showed there was no significant difference in long-term survival between patients with left and right surgical access (OS: HR = 0.95, 95% CI 0.77–1.18; DFS: HR = 0.91, 95% CI 0.74–1.12). In the cohort of patients obtained by PSM, Cox regression analysis yielded the similar results. Conclusion: For patients with resectable esophageal cancer, the surgical treatment through left thoracic approach can achieve the same long-term survival outcomes as the right thoracic approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intramuscular fat (IMF) content is a key determinant of pork quality. Controlling the genetic and physiological factors of IMF and the expression patterns of various genes is important for regulating the IMF content and improving meat quality in pig breeding. Growing evidence has suggested the role of genetic factors and breeds in IMF deposition; however, research on the sex factors of IMF deposition is still lacking. The present study aimed to identify potential sex-specific biomarkers strongly associated with IMF deposition in low- and high-IMF pig populations. The GSE144780 expression dataset of IMF deposition-related genes were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus. Initially, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were detected in male and female low-IMF (162 DEGs, including 64 up- and 98 down-regulated genes) and high-IMF pigs (202 DEGs, including 147 up- and 55 down-regulated genes). Moreover, hub genes were screened via PPI network construction. Furthermore, hub genes were screened for potential sex-specific biomarkers using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator machine learning algorithm, and sex-specific biomarkers in low-IMF (troponin I (TNNI1), myosin light chain 9(MYL9), and serpin family C member 1(SERPINC1)) and high-IMF pigs (CD4 molecule (CD4), CD2 molecule (CD2), and amine oxidase copper-containing 2(AOC2)) were identified, and then verified by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) in semimembranosus muscles. Additionally, the gene set enrichment analysis and single-sample gene set enrichment analysis of hallmark gene sets were collectively performed on the identified biomarkers. Finally, the transcription factor-biomarker and lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA (biomarker) networks were predicted. The identified potential sex-specific biomarkers may provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms of IMF deposition and the beneficial foundation for improving meat quality in pig breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several previous studies investigated the associations between temperature and influenza in a single city or region without a national picture. The attributable risk of influenza due to temperature and the corresponding driving factors were unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the spatial distribution characteristics of attributable risk of Influenza-like illness (ILI) caused by adverse temperatures and explore the related driving factors in the United States. Methods: ILI, meteorological factors, and PM2.5 of 48 states in the United States were collected during 2011–2019. The time-stratified case-crossover design with a distributed lag non-linear model was carried out to evaluate the association between temperature and ILI at the state level. The multivariate meta-analysis was performed to obtain the combined effects at the national level. The attributable fraction (AF) was calculated to assess the ILI burden ascribed to adverse temperatures. The ordinary least square model (OLS), spatial lag model (SLM), and spatial error model (SEM) were utilized to identify driving factors. Results: A total of 7,716,115 ILI cases were included in this study. Overall, the temperature was negatively associated with ILI risk, and lower temperature gave rise to a higher risk of ILI. AF ascribed to adverse temperatures differed across states, from 49.44% (95% eCI: 36.47% ~ 58.68%) in Montana to 6.51% (95% eCI: -6.49% ~ 16.46%) in Wisconsin. At the national level, 29.08% (95% eCI: 27.60% ~ 30.24%) of ILI was attributable to cold. Per 10,000 dollars increase in per-capita income was associated with the increment in AF (OLS: β = -6.110, P = 0.021; SLM: β = -5.496, P = 0.022; SEM: β = -6.150, P = 0.022). Conclusion: The cold could enhance the risk of ILI and result in a considerable proportion of ILI disease burden. The ILI burden attributed to cold varied across states and was higher in those states with lower economic status. Targeted prevention programs should be considered to lower the burden of influenza. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several previous studies investigated the associations between temperature and influenza in a single city or region without a national picture. The attributable risk of influenza due to temperature and the corresponding driving factors were unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the spatial distribution characteristics of attributable risk of Influenza-like illness (ILI) caused by adverse temperatures and explore the related driving factors in the United States. Methods: ILI, meteorological factors, and PM2.5 of 48 states in the United States were collected during 2011–2019. The time-stratified case-crossover design with a distributed lag non-linear model was carried out to evaluate the association between temperature and ILI at the state level. The multivariate meta-analysis was performed to obtain the combined effects at the national level. The attributable fraction (AF) was calculated to assess the ILI burden ascribed to adverse temperatures. The ordinary least square model (OLS), spatial lag model (SLM), and spatial error model (SEM) were utilized to identify driving factors. Results: A total of 7,716,115 ILI cases were included in this study. Overall, the temperature was negatively associated with ILI risk, and lower temperature gave rise to a higher risk of ILI. AF ascribed to adverse temperatures differed across states, from 49.44% (95% eCI: 36.47% ~ 58.68%) in Montana to 6.51% (95% eCI: -6.49% ~ 16.46%) in Wisconsin. At the national level, 29.08% (95% eCI: 27.60% ~ 30.24%) of ILI was attributable to cold. Per 10,000 dollars increase in per-capita income was associated with the increment in AF (OLS: β = -6.110, P = 0.021; SLM: β = -5.496, P = 0.022; SEM: β = -6.150, P = 0.022). Conclusion: The cold could enhance the risk of ILI and result in a considerable proportion of ILI disease burden. The ILI burden attributed to cold varied across states and was higher in those states with lower economic status. Targeted prevention programs should be considered to lower the burden of influenza. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genome wide association studies (GWAS) have discovered a few of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) related to major psychiatric disorders. However, it is not completely clear which genes play a pleiotropic role in multiple disorders. The study aimed to identify the pleiotropic genes across five psychiatric disorders using multivariate adaptive association tests. Summary statistics of five psychiatric disorders were downloaded from Psychiatric Genomics Consortium. We applied linkage disequilibrium score regression (LDSC) to estimate genetic correlation and conducted tissue and cell type specificity analyses based on Multi-marker Analysis of GenoMic Annotation (MAGMA). Then, we identified the pleiotropic genes using MTaSPUsSet and aSPUs tests. We ultimately performed the functional analysis for pleiotropic genes. We confirmed the significant genetic correlation and brain tissue and neuron specificity among five disorders. 100 pleiotropic genes were detected to be significantly associated with five psychiatric disorders, of which 55 were novel genes. These genes were functionally enriched in neuron differentiation and synaptic transmission. The effect direction of pleiotropic genes couldn't be distinguished due to without individual-level data. We identified pleiotropic genes using multivariate adaptive association tests and explored their biological function. The findings may provide novel insight into the development and implementation of prevention and treatment as well as targeted drug discovery in practice. • The MTaSPUsSet, a novel adaptive association test, considers association patterns. • More pleiotropic genes were found by aggregating multiple related phenotypes. • It is a cost-effective study based on GWAS summary statistics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Bionic sensor that responds to underwater strain, breathing, bubbles. • Superhydrophobic sensor for detecting humidity. • Underwater bubble response with good robustness. • Applications for real-time monitoring of the underwater physiological signals. The development of multifunctional flexible sensors capable of monitoring different physiological signals of the body underwater holds great practical significance in safeguarding the well-being of divers during their subaquatic activities. Here, we prepared a multilayer multifunctional sensor that mimics the structure of human skin by sequentially constructing a sensing layer formed by multi-walled carbon nanotubes and a hydrophobic protective layer formed by organosilicon dioxide (o-SiO 2) on the elastomer surface. The o-SiO 2 layer is superhydrophobic and breathable, also allowing the sensing layer to be only partially wetted. The sensor can monitor human respiration by sensing humidity due to breathability of protective layer. Additionally, the superhydrophobic surface ensures stable strain monitoring even underwater. The partially wetted sensing layer allows the sensor to respond to its immersion and surfacing processes, as well as underwater bubbles. These multifunctional sensors are capable of real-time monitoring of divers' physiological signals, including breathing patterns and motions, throughout underwater activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to evaluate the effects of complexation of whey protein isolate (WPI) and young apple polyphenols (YAP) on the bioavailability and anti‐hyperglycemic activity of YAP. Two types of WPI‐YAP complexes were fabricated by mixing WPI with YAP at 25℃ (WPI‐YAP) and 90℃ (WPI‐YAP‐H), respectively. The intermolecular interactions between WPI and YAP were investigated by fluorescence spectroscopy and circular dichroism analyses. The in vitro bioaccessibility and bioavailability of YAP were determined using a simulated gastrointestinal digestion and human Caco‐2 cells model. It was found that the total polyphenols transport efficiency was improved from 39.8% (YAP) to 48.2% (WPI‐YAP) and 56.1% (WPI‐YAP‐H), indicating that the bioavailability of YAP was improved by complexation with WPI. Besides, after complexation with WPI, YAP displayed an improved in vivo effect on alleviating the increase in postprandial blood glucose level than the pure YAP, with WPI‐YAP‐H showing a better effect. This finding indicates that co‐complexation of YAP with WPI is an effective way to improve the functionality of YAP, and the WPI‐YAP complexes are also expected to have potential application in designing YAP‐containing functional foods. Practical Application: The research provided a method to improve the bioavavibility of polyphenols, and the WPI‐YAP complex can be developed in designing polyphenols related functional foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OX40 is a costimulatory molecule that belongs to the tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR) superfamily. OX40 agonist‐based combinations are emerging as promising candidates for novel cancer immunotherapy. Clinical trials have shown that OX40 agonist antibodies could lead to better results in cancer patients. Using a hybridoma platform and three different types of immunization strategies, namely recombinant protein, DNA, and overexpressing cells, we identified a chimeric anti‐OX40 antibody (mAb035‐hIgG1 from DNA immunization) that shows excellent binding specificity, and slightly stronger activation of human memory CD4+ T cells and similar potent antitumor activity compared with BMS 986178, an anti‐OX40 antibody currently being evaluated for the treatment of solid tumors. This paper further systematically investigates the antigen‐specific immune response, the number of binders, epitope bins, and functional activities of antibodies among different immunization strategies. Interestingly, we found that different immunization strategies affect the biological activity of monoclonal antibodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Carcass traits are essential economic traits in the commercial pig industry. However, the genetic mechanism of carcass traits is still unclear. In this study, we performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) based on the specific-locus amplified fragment sequencing (SLAF-seq) to study seven carcass traits on 223 four-way intercross pigs, including dressing percentage (DP), number of ribs (RIB), skin thinkness (ST), carcass straight length (CSL), carcass diagonal length (CDL), loin eye width (LEW), and loin eye thickness (LET). Results: A total of 227,921 high-quality single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were detected to perform GWAS. A total of 30 SNPs were identified for seven carcass traits using the mixed linear model (MLM) (p < 1.0 × 10− 5), of which 9 SNPs were located in previously reported quantitative trait loci (QTL) regions. The phenotypic variation explained (PVE) by the significant SNPs was from 2.43 to 16.32%. Furthermore, 11 candidate genes (LYPLAL1, EPC1, MATN2, ZFAT, ZBTB10, ZNF704, INHBA, SMYD3, PAK1, SPTBN2, and ACTN3) were found for carcass traits in pigs. Conclusions: The GWAS results will improve our understanding of the genetic basis of carcass traits. We hypothesized that the candidate genes associated with these discovered SNPs would offer a biological basis for enhancing the carcass quality of pigs in swine breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conventional survival analysis model on HIV/AIDS prognosis is the Cox proportional hazard model, which deals with only one event type, death, regardless of the cause. Few studies have used a competing risk model to evaluate the predictors of AIDS-related mortality. To estimate the influence of antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation time and baseline CD4+ cell counts on acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)-related death among former plasma donors. A retrospective cohort study was conducted involving 11,905 human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or AIDS patients in a high-risk area of Henan province in China between 1995 and 2016. Demographic and clinical data were collected. Sub-distribution hazard ratios (sHRs) for AIDS-related mortality with baseline CD4+ cell counts and ART initiation time were determined using a competing risk model. Patients who initiated ART within 90 days of HIV/AIDS diagnosis (sHR: 0.24, 95% CI: 0.22–0.27) or had baseline CD4+ counts of >500 cells/μL (sHR: 0.23, 95% CI: 0.19–0.28) were associated with lower AIDS-related mortality risk. Patients with ART initiation time >1 year but CD4+ counts >350 cells/μL (sHR: 4.42, 95% CI: 3.30–5.91) had a higher AIDS-related mortality risk than those with ART initiation time >90 days but CD4+ counts ≤350 cells/μL (sHR: 4.33, 95% CI: 3.58–5.23). Our results demonstrate that patients with high CD4+ cell counts and late ART had a 9% higher risk of AIDS-related death than those with low CD4+ cell counts and early ART. This study confirms the great significance of immediate ART initiation among former plasma donor HIV patients in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current studies on security of IOT are mainly concentrated in the detection and control of behaviors of sensing nodes and neglect the protection of the key components of sensing nodes. So that sensor nodes may be destroyed and don't function when malicious behaviors are detected. To solve this problem, in this paper, we apply trusted computing to study the security of Internet of things and propose the trusted immune system of the sensing network. The trusted immune system not only just guarantee the trust of behaviors of sensing nodes, but also guarantee the trust of the key components of sensing nodes. By implementing immune surveillance, immune defense and immune homeostasis, the trusted immune system of the sensing network provides initiatively immune support for the sensing network combining with macro and micro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coke oven emissions (COEs), confirmed human carcinogens, are mainly composed of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Telomere shortening in blood leukocytes has been associated with COEs, and polymorphisms in metabolic enzymes. However, the relationship between polymorphisms in telomere related genes and telomere shortening in COEs exposed workers has never been evaluated. Therefore, we measured telomere length and mRNA expression levels of telomere-binding proteins (TBPs) by qPCR method in leucocyte from 544 COEs exposed workers and 238 office staffs (referents). Flight mass spectrometry was used to perform the genotyping of selected functional and susceptible SNPs. The results showed that the telomere length in the exposure group 0.75(0.51,1.08) was significantly shorter than that in the control group 1.05(0.76,1.44) (P < 0.001). The mRNA expression levels of TPP1 , TERF1 and TERF2 genes in the exposure group were significantly lower than those in the control group (P < 0.05), the mRNA expression level of POT1 in the exposure group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05). We used the wild homozygous genotype as a reference, subjects carrying TERT rs2736109 AA, TERT rs3215401 CC and TERT rs2736100 GT + GG genotypes had significantly longer telomere length in the exposure group (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the workers exposed to COEs had shorter telomere length, which was regulated by the TPP1 , TERF1 , TERF2 and POT1 genes expression levels, and the gene polymorphisms of TERT gene were associated with the telomere length among PAHs-exposure workers. Image 1 • Workers exposed to COEs had shorter RTL, regulated by TPP1 , TERF1 , TERF2 and POT1 genes. • TERT gene polymorphisms were associated with the RTL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Although genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have been extensively applied in identifying SNP associated with metabolic diseases, the SNPs identified by this prevailing univariate approach only explain a small percentage of the genetic variance of traits. The extensive previous studies have repeatedly shown type2 diabetes (T2D), obesity and coronary artery disease (CAD) have common genetic mechanisms and the overlapping pathophysiological pathways. Methods The genetic pleiotropy-informed metaCCA method was applied on summary statistics data from three independent meta-GWAS summary statistics to identify shared variants and pleiotropic effect between T2D, obesity and CAD. Furthermore, to refine all genes, we performed gene-based association analyses for these three diseases respectively using VEGAS2. Gene enrichment analysis was applied to explore the potential functional significance of the identified genes. Results After metaCCA analysis, 833 SNPs reached the Bonferroni corrected threshold (p < 7.99 × 10−7) in the univariate SNP-multivariate phenotype analysis, and 327 genes with a significance threshold (p < 3.73 × 10−6) were identified as potentially pleiotropic genes in the multivariate SNP-multivariate phenotype analysis. By screening the results of gene-based p-values, we identified 22 putative pleiotropic genes which achieved significance threshold in metaCCA analyses and were also associated with at least one disease in the VEGAS2 analyses. Conclusions The metaCCA method identified novel variants associated with T2D, obesity and CAD by effectively incorporating information from different GWAS datasets. Our analyses may provide insights for some common therapeutic approaches of metabolic diseases based on the pleiotropic genes and common mechanisms identified. Highlights • The sample size is increased through the metaCCA method by integrating three large GWAS summary statistics. • Jointly analyzing multiple related traits lead to richer findings compared univariate disease analyses. • It is a cost-effective study based on GWAS summary statistics compared to the conventional GWAS sequencing technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Genome-wide association studies have been extensively applied in identifying SNP associated with major psychiatric disorders. However, the SNPs identified by the prevailing univariate approach only explain a small percentage of the genetic variance of traits, and the extensive data have shown the major psychiatric disorders have common biological mechanisms and the overlapping pathophysiological pathways.Methods: We applied the genetic pleiotropy-informed metaCCA method on summary statistics data from the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium Cross-Disorder Group to examine the overlapping genetic relations between the five major psychiatric disorders. Furthermore, to refine all genes, we performed gene-based association analyses for the five disorders respectively using VEGAS2. Gene enrichment analysis was applied to explore the potential functional significance of the identified genes.Results: After metaCCA analysis, 1147 SNPs reached the Bonferroni corrected threshold (p < 1.06 × 10-6) in the univariate SNP-multivariate phenotype analysis, and 246 genes with a significance threshold (p < 3.85 × 10-6) were identified as potentially pleiotropic genes in the multivariate SNP-multivariate phenotype analysis. By screening the results of gene-based p-values, we identified 37 putative pleiotropic genes which achieved significance threshold in metaCCA analyses and were also associated with at least one disorder in the VEGAS2 analyses.Limitations: Alternative approaches and experimental studies may be applied to check whether novel genes could still be identified/substantiated with these methods.Conclusions: The metaCCA method identified novel variants associated with psychiatric disorders by effectively incorporating information from different GWAS datasets. Our analyses may provide insights for some common therapeutic approaches of these five major psychiatric disorders based on the pleiotropic genes and common mechanisms identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the physical modeling method for the desiccant wheel system (DWS) is complex and costly for calculations, the modeling method based on neural network (NN) gains attention for its simplicity and effectiveness. The previous NN models of DWS are mostly based on backpropagation (BP) NN and adopt the gradient searching method to obtain the weights and thresholds. However, the gradient searching method results in “overfitting” easily. In this paper, a novel neural network training algorithm,trainmpga, is proposed. The algorithm searches the optimal weights and thresholds of NN by making use of the multiple population genetic algorithm, thereby conquering the “overfitting” of the gradient searching method and the “prematurity” of the genetic algorithm. Meanwhile, related configurations of NN, such as parameters and framework, are studied. Finally, the proposed modeling methodtrainmpgaproves to have high training and prediction accuracy in comparison to the training algorithms in the MatLab toolbox and has good application prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The purpose of the study was to explore the application of artificial neural network model in the auxiliary diagnosis of lung cancer and compare the effects of back-propagation (BP) neural network with Fisher discrimination model for lung cancer screening by the combined detections of four biomarkers of p16, RASSF1A and FHIT gene promoter methylation levels and the relative telomere length. Real-time quantitative methylation-specific PCR was used to detect the levels of three-gene promoter methylation, and real-time PCR method was applied to determine the relative telomere length. BP neural network and Fisher discrimination analysis were used to establish the discrimination diagnosis model. The levels of three-gene promoter methylation in patients with lung cancer were significantly higher than those of the normal controls. The values of Z(P) in two groups were 2.641 (0.008), 2.075 (0.038) and 3.044 (0.002), respectively. The relative telomere lengths of patients with lung cancer (0.93 ± 0.32) were significantly lower than those of the normal controls (1.16 ± 0.57), t = 4.072, P < 0.001. The areas under the ROC curve (AUC) and 95 % CI of prediction set from Fisher discrimination analysis and BP neural network were 0.670 (0.569-0.761) and 0.760 (0.664-0.840). The AUC of BP neural network was higher than that of Fisher discrimination analysis, and Z(P) was 0.76. Four biomarkers are associated with lung cancer. BP neural network model for the prediction of lung cancer is better than Fisher discrimination analysis, and it can provide an excellent and intelligent diagnosis tool for lung cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: T cells have been proven to play important roles in anti-tumor and tumor microenvironment shaping, while these roles have not been explained in bladder cancer (BLCA). Methods: Single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) data were downloaded from the gene expression omnibus (GEO) database to screen T-cell marker genes. Bulk RNA-sequencing data and clinical information from BLCA patients were downloaded from the cancer genome atlas (TCGA) database to develop a prognosis signature. We analyzed the association of different risk groups with survival analysis, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), tumor mutational burden (TMB), and immunotherapy response. Results: Based on 192 T-cell marker genes identified by scRNA-seq analysis, we constructed a prognostic signature containing 7 genes in the training cohort, which was further validated in the testing cohort and GEO cohort. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve at 1-, 3-, and 5 years were 0.734, 0.742 and 0.726 in the training cohort, 0.697, 0.671 and 0.670 in the testing cohort, 0.702, 0.665 and 0.629 in the GEO cohort, respectively. In addition, we constructed a nomogram based on clinical factors and the risk score of the signature. The low-risk group exhibited higher immune-related pathways, immune cell infiltration and TMB levels. Importantly, immunophenotype score and immunotherapy cohort (IMvigor210) analyses showed that the low-risk group had better immunotherapy response and prognosis. Conclusions: Our study reveals a novel prognostic signature based on T-cell marker genes, which provides a new target and theoretical support for BLCA patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple and reliable method was established for simultaneous determination of 4-hydroxyphenyl acetic acid, 4-hydroxyphenyl lactic acid, and 3,4-hydroxyphenyl propionic acid in human urine by high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection. Solid-phase extraction was used to eliminate the interferences in urine. The separation of three analytes was achieved using a C18 column and a mobile phase formed by a 95:5 v/v mixture of 50 mmol/L ammonium acetate buffer at pH 6.8 that contained 5 mmol/L tetrabutyl ammonium bromide and acetonitrile. Under the optimized conditions, the detection limits of 4-hydroxyphenyl acetic acid, 4-hydroxyphenyl lactic acid, and 3,4-hydroxyphenyl propionic acid were 4.8 × 10−3, 8.80 × 10−3, and 9.00 × 10−3 mg/L, respectively, and the recoveries were in the range of 85.0-120.0% with relative standard deviations of 1.5-3.1%. This method was used to analyze urine samples from breast cancer patients, healthy people and post-surgery breast cancer patients. Significant differences in urinary levels of 4-hydroxyphenyl acetic acid and 4-hydroxyphenyl lactic acid could be found between the breast cancer patients group and other two groups. No effect of age and sex was observed on the urinary levels of 4-hydroxyphenyl acetic acid and 4-hydroxyphenyl lactic acid. This method might be helpful for cancer biomarkers discovery in urine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The graphene nanoplatelets reinforced ADC12 composites (GNPs/ADC12) were successfully fabricated by ultrasonic assisted casting. The aging behavior, microstructure and mechanical properties of GNPs/ADC12 composites were investigated in this study. It was found that during aging treatment, Al 2 Cu precipitates preferentially nucleated at the GNPs/Al interfaces and dislocations induced by GNPs. This was mainly because the dislocations and interfaces could act as preferred nucleation sites for Al 2 Cu precipitates and diffusion channels for Cu element. And, the addition of GNPs could result in the finer grains, more GNPs/Al interfaces and high density dislocations, thus promoting the precipitation process of GNPs/ADC12 composites. Moreover, GNPs could improve the aging strengthening effect of the composites because of the pinning effect of GNPs on grain boundaries. As a result, the yield strength of peak aged GNPs/ADC12 composites was 245.8 MPa, which was 69.9% higher than that of ADC12 alloy. The peak aged composites were mainly strengthened by dislocation strengthening mechanism, which accounted for 62.3% in total strength contributions. • Al 2 Cu precipitates tend to nucleate at the GNPs/Al interfaces and dislocations. • GNPs can promote the precipitation of Al 2 Cu phase. • GNPs can improve the aging strengthening effect of the composites. • The composites are mainly reinforced by the dislocation strengthening mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • All three asphaltenes (Canada, Indonesia and Iran) can occlude toluene. • The amount of occluded toluene depends on asphaltenes type. • The higher aromaticity of asphaltene, the more residual toluene in asphaltene. • Van der Waals force affects the escape of toluene from asphaltene. During the aqueous-nonaqueous hybrid bitumen extraction (HBE) or the solvent extraction processes of unconventional oil ores, especially for the ores with high asphaltene content, solvent loss in tailings has been a major factor affecting environmental issues and operating costs. Herein, we proposed the experimental tests with molecular dynamic simulation methods to understand the cause and mechanism of solvent (e.g., toluene) loss together with asphaltenes. The experimental results by TG-MS clearly show that the asphaltenes can confine the toluene molecules (>0.19 wt%) in two different ways: i) a part of the toluene is adsorbed on the asphaltenes surface, and ii) a part of the toluene is trapped in asphaltenes 'cage', which could be released at much higher temperature (∼148–162℃, much higher than the boiling point of toluene). The relative amount of the confined toluene in the asphaltenes is also found to be asphaltene type-dependent. The asphaltenes with higher aromatic degree (i.e., Iran asphalt) showed stronger ability to entrain and confine toluene, leading to higher relative amount of solvent being occluded. To further understand how the asphaltenes confine the toluene molecules, the molecular dynamic simulation has been conducted. It is found that the van der Waals (vdW) forces between toluene and asphaltene are the major interactions which influence the escaping of toluene from asphaltene. The radial distribution function (RDF) analysis showed that the vdW force is mainly the π − π stacking between benzene ring in toluene and aromatic rings in asphaltenes. This finding would provide direct and fundamental understanding for the development of solvent recovery and viscosity reduction of heavy oils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Steam bursting was used to pretreat sawdust to prepare activated carbon. • The carbon had specific surface area of 962 m2/g, micropore volume of 0.327 cm3/g. • The surface area and micropore volume decrease with the increase of pressure. • This carbon achieved a high adsorption capacity of 223 mg/g PFOA and 332 mg/g MB. Using waste biomass to prepare various products by environmentally benign processes is a good way to practice green and sustainable development. In this paper, high porosity and surface area biomass activated carbon was obtained by pyrolysis of pine sawdust without using any chemicals after steam bursting pretreatment. Under hydrothermal conditions at 160 ℃, the differences of steam bursting at 300, 500, or 700 psi pressures on the structure and surface chemical groups of the final activated carbons product were compared. The characterization showed that the specific surface areas and micropore volumes decreased with the increase of pressure, while the relative content of oxygen-containing functional groups changed slightly. The sample obtained following 300 psi pretreatment (HPB300) offered the highest BET surface area and pore volume, 962 m2/g and 0.526 cm3/g respectively, and which also achieved the highest adsorption amounts for both methylene blue (MB) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • IAA forms interfacial film by π-π stacking, hydrogen bonds and non-covalent bonds. • Hydrogen bonds play the important role in stabilizing the IAA-W/O emulsion. • MJTJU-2 demulsifier weakens the IAA intermolecular interactions. • MJTJU-2 demulsifier breaks IAA interfacial film by hydrogen bonds reconstruction. Chemical demulsification is the most commonly used demulsification method for the separation of oil–water emulsions (W/O) in petroleum industry. Previous experiments demonstrate that the interfacially active asphaltenes (IAA) play the key role in stabilizing the heavy oil–water emulsions. Herein, the molecular dynamic simulation has been applied to reveal the molecular mechanisms on the stability and instability of the IAA-stabilized oil–water emulsions. It is found that IAA could accumulate at the oil–water interface and self-aggregate to form viscoelastic interfacial film through π-π stacking, hydrogen bonds (intermolecular and intramolecular) and other non-covalent bonds. Different types of hydrogen bonds (i.e., S = O...H-O, R-OH...H-O, N-H...N-R, S-H...S = O, S-H...S-R) are found between the IAA molecules due to the presence of heteroatoms (e.g., N, O, S) in IAA. Increasing the IAA concentration would increase the thickness of the IAA film which plays the key roles in stabilizing the emulsions. When the newly synthesized demulsifier (i.e., MJTJU-2) was added into the oil–water emulsion system, the oxygen groups (i.e., hydroxyl, ester groups, carboxyl groups, ether group) in demulsifier could weaken (at least 50%) or even break the hydrogen bonds and π-π stacking between IAAs and form new stronger hydrogen bonds with water molecules. This hydrogen bond reconstruction facilitates the breaking of the IAA film at the oil–water interface, allowing the coalescence of the water droplets in oil phase. This work would provide fundamental understanding for developing new way to efficiently demulsify the petroleum or similar oil–water emulsions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green banana fruit, which had been exposed to ethylene for 24 h, were kept in air or 60% CO2 + air. In control fruit, a typical climacteric curve of respiration was observed. Citrate and malate continued to accumulate throughout the experimental period. This suggests a glycolytic carbon flow exceeding that of the TCA cycle throughout the ripening period. The content of 2-oxoglutarate and activity of NADP-linked isocitrate dehydrogenase (NADP-IDH) changed approximately in parallel to the climacteric pattern of respiration. By contrast, with the CO2 treatment, the respiratory climacteric was suppressed along with decreasing contents of pyruvate, 2-oxoglutarate, and malate. However, there was accumulation of citrate and succinate, with citrate mostly equal to and the latter exceeding levels in control fruit. Activity of NADP-IDH was strongly suppressed by CO2 exposure. In addition, high concentrations of CO2 decreased the oxidative activity of NADP-IDH in an in vitro assay, indicating a decrease in production of 2-oxoglutarate. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The entrainment of residual switchable hydrophilicity solvents (e.g., N, N, N′, N′-tetraethyl-1,3-propanediamine (TEPDA)) in the oil phase after solvent extraction was considered as one of the main challenges hindering the application of switchable solvents. Herein, the residual behavior of TEPDA in bitumen has been systematically investigated with experimental tests and molecular dynamic (MD) simulation. According to the experimental tests, it is found that the TEPDA could be entrained in bitumen in two different ways: i) a small amount of solvents are dissolved in the water droplets dispersed in the bitumen, and ii) most of the neutral solvents remain in the bitumen in the form of mutual solubility. The partial dissolution of asphaltene by TEPDA is the main factor affecting solvent protonation via solubility experiments. To comprehensively understand the process and formation mechanism of solvent residue, molecular dynamic simulation was used to analyze the wrapping mechanisms. By studying the interaction between different oil fractions and solvent molecules, it is found that asphaltene plays an important role in blocking reversible solvents and hinders their diffusion to the surface, which is consistent with the solubility tested. Intermolecular interaction analysis is used to understand the mechanism of solvent residue. It is observed that the van der Waals (vdW) forces between heteroatoms (O, N, S) in asphaltenes and methyl group in TEPDA as well as hydrogen bond (N...O-H) between TEPDA and asphaltene, play an important role in the binding of asphaltene-TEPDA. This finding provides molecular mechanisms for the residue of switchable solvents during heavy oil extraction. It would also shed light on developing new methods of solving the switchable solvent residues in other extraction processes. [Display omitted] • TEPDA could be entrained in bitumen by two different ways. • The SARA fractions show different affinity to TEPDA molecules. • The diffusion of TEPDA to the oil-water interface is highly dependent on the asphaltene. • The hydrogen bond and vdW force play key role in binding asphaltene and TEPDA • The vdW force is mainly the interaction between heteroatoms in asphaltene and TEPDA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to investigate the effect of chlorogenic acid (CA) on starch digestibility and fermentability in vitro. Compared with wheat starch (WS), WS-CA complexes exhibited a looser porous gel matrix, and higher solubility and swelling power with the addition of different proportion of CA. The WS-CA complexes significantly reduced the digestive rate of the gelatinized WS, and increased the proportion of resistant starch (RS) ranging from 31.70 % to 69.63 % much higher than that in the gelatinized WS (26.34 %). The residual WS-CA complexes after 24 h of fermentation with human feces induced the production of short-chain fatty acid, as well as the proliferation of gut microbiota such as genera Megamonas and Parabacteroides positively associated with the improvement of human health. The results suggest that complex of starch and CA could be a promising method for developing starchy foods with lower starch hydrolysis and promoting the growth of probiotics. [Display omitted] • Wheat starch and chlorogenic acid complexes were fabricated. • The complexes significantly inhibited the digestive rate of gelatinized wheat starch. • The proportion of resistant starch was enhanced by the complexes. • The production of SCFA was promoted by the complexes. • The residual wheat starch-chlorogenic acid complex promoted the growth of probiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cucumber fruits exposed to a 60% CO2 environment for 3 d at 20°C showed a higher respiration rate, a lower respiratory quotient, and lower levels of malate, citrate + isocitrate, and glyoxylate than did control fruits. Moreover, in the CO2 treatment, fumarate and succinate increased dramatically on the first day and after the second day, respectively, while 2-oxoglutarate showed a temporary increase on the first day and a subsequent decrease. Isocitrate lyase and malate synthase activity tended to increase throughout the experimental period of the CO2 treatment. These results appear to point to a rapid operation of glyoxylate cycle due to high CO2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitochondria DNA was preferentially attacked by the exogenous carcinogens including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) relative to nuclear DNA, and nuclear gene variants may account for variability in the mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNAcn). However, it remains unclear whether miRNA genetic variations are associated with mitochondrial DNA damage in the PAH-exposed workers. Therefore, we measured the leukocyte mtDNAcn, urinary 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OHPYR), environmental PAH exposure, and miRNA genetic polymorphisms among 544 coke oven workers and 238 healthy control participants. We found that the mtDNAcn in the exposure group (0.60 ± 0.29) was significantly lower than that in the control group (1.03 ± 0.31) (t = 18.931, P < 0.001). Spearman correlation analysis showed that the peripheral blood leukocyte mtDNAcn had significantly negative correlations with the levels of 1-OHPYR and environmental PAH exposure (P < 0.001). Covariance analysis indicated that miR-210 rs11246190 AA, miR-210 rs7395206 CC, and miR-126 rs2297538 GG probably promoted a decrease in leukocyte mtDNAcn in the exposure or control groups (P < 0.05). In generalized linear model, miR-210 rs11246190 GG was a protective factor of mtDNAcn, and environmental PAH exposure was the risk factor of the mtDNAcn. In conclusion, the decrease of leukocyte mtDNAcn is the result of a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Image 1 • mtDNAcn decreased with environmental PAH exposure. • miR-210 rs11246190 GG was a protective factor of mtDNAcn. • The other 14 polymorphisms in miRNA had null effects on mtDNAcn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peripheral blood leukocyte telomere length in omethoate–exposed workers is related to environmental exposure and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes including p21 , GSTM1, miR-145, etc. However, the roles of SNPs in tankyrase (TNKS) gene in telomere length are still unknown. The aim of this study was to explore the association between SNPs in TNKS gene and telomere length in omethoate–exposed workers. Telomere length in peripheral blood leukocyte DNA from 180 omethoate-exposed workers and 115 healthy controls was measured using Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Genotyping of the selected functional and susceptible SNPs was performed by the flight mass spectrometry based on PCR and single-base extension. The analysis of covariance was performed to find effects of SNPs on telomere length. Generalized linear models were used to analyze the environment, gene, and interaction on telomere length. The results showed that telomere length in the CG + CC genotypes in rs1055328 in TNKS gene was significantly longer than that in the wild homozygous GG genotype both in exposure group (P = 0.017) and in control group (P = 0.038) after adjusting the covariates. The variables kept in the generalized linear models included omethoate-exposure (β = 0.580, P = 0.001) and rs1055328 (CG + CC) in TNKS gene (β = 0.339, P = 0.002). The study suggests that the prolongation of telomere length is associated with omethoate-exposure and the CG + CC genotypes in rs1055328 in TNKS gene. • A new method is established for detecting seven SNPs in TNKS gene by MALDI-TOF MS. • Omethoate workers carrying rs1055328 CG + CC genotypes have longer telomere. • Other six SNPs are unrelated to changes in telomere length in omethoate workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite some progress in pneumococcal immunization, the global burden of pneumococcal infection remains high, and pneumococcal disease remains a public health concern. Studies in China and abroad have found that 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV23) vaccination can effectively prevent invasive pneumococcal disease. This phase Ⅰ clinical study assessed the safety and immunogenicity of a PPV23 vaccine candidate. All subjects were randomly assigned to receive one dose intramuscular injection of experimental vaccine or control vaccine at a ratio of 1:1. The incidence of any adverse events was observed within 30 min, 0–7 days and 8–28 days post vaccination and the incidence of abnormal blood biochemical and blood routine indicators were tested on the 4th day post vaccination, the incidence of serious adverse events (SAEs) at 6 months post vaccination was recorded. Blood samples were collected prior to vaccination and on the 28th day post vaccination, and serum antibodies were detected by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The most common adverse reaction was pain at the injection site, followed by erythema. There was no significant difference of the incidence of systemic adverse reactions between the two vaccine groups. The adverse reactions observed in the trial were all common vaccination-related reactions, and no serious adverse reactions were observed. Compared to pre-vaccination, the (geometric mean concentrations) GMCs of IgG (immunoglobulin G) specific antibody against each serotype were all increased in the experimental group and the control group, there were statistical differences in seroconversion rates of serotypes 4 and 20 between the two vaccine groups. This clinical study showed good safety of the PPV23 vaccine candidate produced by Ab&b Biotechnology Co., Ltd.JS had good safety after vaccination in people aged 2 years and older. At the same time, good immunogenicity was also demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) were used as reinforcement to fabricate the ADC12-GNPs composites via ultrasonic-assisted casting, then the composites were adopted T6 heat treatment. The microstructures and wear performance were investigated in detail. The GNPs effectively refined the α-Al grains and form a strong Al-GNPs interfacial structure with the matrix, and the T6 heat treatment further rounded the Si phases and precipitated nanoscale θ′-Al 2 Cu. With the increase of load, the wear rate increases. And with the increase of sliding velocity, the wear rate shows a tendency of decreasing and then increasing. The wear rate and COF of the ADC12-GNPs/T6 composites showed a maximum reduction of 63.3 % and 39.2 %, respectively, compared to the matrix. The self-lubrication and refinement strengthening effect of GNPs improved the wear resistance, and the interaction between nanoscale θ′-Al 2 Cu precipitates and dislocations enhanced the tribological properties. Wear morphology and three dimensional profile analysis showed that the surface roughness of the ADC12-GNPs/T6 composite was 2.73 μm, which was 150 % lower than that of the matrix (6.82 μm) when the sliding velocity was 0.28 m/s and the load was 40 N, showing typical abrasive wear characteristics. [Display omitted] • The GNPs refined the Al grains and formed a strong interfacial with the matrix. • T6 heat treatment further rounded the Si phases and precipitated nanoscale θ′-Al 2 Cu. • The wear rate of ADC12-GNPs/T6 composites was reduced by 63.3 % compared to matrix. • The wear surface roughness of ADC12-GNPs/T6 composites was reduced to 2.73 μm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: As biomarkers, microRNAs (miRNAs) are closely associated with the occurrence, progression, and prognosis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the prognostic predictive value of miRNAs in NSCLC has rarely been explored. In this study, the value in prognosis prediction of NSCLC was mined based on data mining models using clinical data and plasma miRNAs biomarkers. Methods: A total of 69 patients were included in this prospective cohort study. After informed consent, they filled out questionnaires and had their peripheral blood collected. The expressions of plasma miRNAs were examined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). The Whitney U test was used to analyze non-normally distributed data. Kaplan-Meier was used to plot the survival curve, the log-rank test was used to compare with the overall survival curve, and the Cox proportional hazards model was used to screen the factors related to the prognosis of lung cancer. Data mining techniques were utilized to predict the prognostic status of patients. Results: We identified that smoking (HR = 2.406, 95% CI = 1.256–4.611), clinical stage III + IV (HR = 5.389, 95% CI = 2.290-12.684), the high expression group of miR-20a (HR = 4.420, 95% CI = 1.760–11.100), the high expression group of miR-197 (HR = 3.828, 95% CI = 1.778–8.245), the low expression group of miR-145 (HR = 0.286, 95% CI = 0.116–0.709), and the low expression group of miR-30a (HR = 0.307, 95% CI = 0.133–0.706) was associated with worse prognosis. Among the five data mining models, the decision trees (DT) C5.0 model performs the best, with accuracy and Area Under Curve (AUC) of 93.75% and 0.929 (0.685, 0.997), respectively. Conclusion: The results showed that the high expression level of miR-20a and miR-197, the low expression level of miR-145 and miR-30a were strongly associated with poorer prognosis in NSCLC patients, and the DT C5.0 model may serve as a novel, accurate, method for predicting prognosis of NSCLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We explored the association between variations in the telomere maintenance genes and change in telomere length (TL) in workers. The TL of peripheral blood leukocytes from 544 coke oven workers and 238 controls were detected using the Real-time PCR method. Variations in four genes were then detected using the PCR based restriction fragment length polymorphism. The effects of environmental and genetic factors on TL were subsequently analyzed through covariance analysis and a generalized linear model.The TL of subjects with GG genotypes were longer than those with AG genotype in the TERT rs2736098 locus amongst the controls (P =.032). The combined effect of COEs exposure and AG+AA genotypes had a significant effect on TL (P <.001). The interaction between the COEs exposure factor and the rs2736098AG+AA genotypes had a significant effect on the TL (P <.05). The TL in coke oven workers is associated with the interactions between TERT rs2736098 AG+AA and COEs exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the interaction effects of Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) exposure and variants in cGAS-STING genes on mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNAcn) in workers. The mtDNAcn was determined by real-time quantitative polymerase-chain reaction in 544 PAHs-exposed workers and 238 office workers. The polymorphisms were detected by flight mass spectrometry. The mtDNAcn in PAHs exposure group was significantly lower than non-occupational exposure population (P < 0.00). The cGAS rs610913 CA+AA had significant interaction effects with STING rs11554776 GG+GA (P = 0.035), rs7380824 CC+CT (P = 0.026), and rs78233829 GC+CC (P = 0.034) on mtDNAcn. The generalized linear model results showed that the influencing factors of mtDNAcn include PAHs exposure (P < 0.001) and the interaction of PAHs exposure and cGAS rs 311678 AA+AG (P = 0.047). The influencing factors of mtDNAcn include PAHs exposure and the interaction of PAHs exposure and cGAS rs 311678 AA+AG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to explore the preventive and therapeutic effects of Lycium barbarum pigment (LP) and polysaccharides (LBPs) on alcohol-induced fatty liver disease (AFLD) in mice, through the measurement of serum and hepatic biochemical indexes, morphologic pathological observation and expression of metabolism-related genes. The results showed that LP and LBPs were non-toxic. The body weight, liver index, and lipid metabolic indexes were significantly inhibited by LP and LBPs. Besides, LP and LBPs could protect liver from oxidative injury and allergy, as suggested by increased glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) and inflammatory cytokine (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6). Furthermore, through RT-PCR, LP, and LBPs were found to regulate liver injury related metabolism by increasing expression of AMPKα2 mRNA and reducing expressions of SREBP-1c, CYP2E1, TLR4, and Myd88 mRNA. Therefore, Lycium barbarum may be developed as a potential functional food regarding preventing and treating AFLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a fast and reliable method was developed for simultaneous quantification of tyrosine, 4-hydroxyphenyl acetic acid, 4-hydroxyphenyl lactic acid, 3-4-hydroxyphenyl propionic acid, 4-hydroxyphenethyl amine and 3-4-hydroxyphenyl alanine in human urine by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS). The sample preparation procedure was simplified to obtain a fast analysis in terms of diluting the urine with ultrapure water and centrifuging pre-analysis. After estimating the matrix effect, matrix-matched calibration curves were used to equalize the matrix effect, and both chromatographic and MS conditions were optimized. To verify the reliability of this method, the performances of this method were validated carefully in terms of accuracy, precision, linearity, sensitivity, stability and carryover effect. The validation results showed that, the calibration cures were linear (correlation coefficients above 0.999), and the limits of detection and limits of quantification for the analytes were in the range of 0.003–0.081 mg/L and 0.010–0.270 mg/L, respectively. The recoveries were in the range of 85.5–110.0%, with RSDs of 0.8–4.2%. This method was further applied to human urine samples from normal people and cancer patients. All the results showed that this study might be helpful for development of noninvasive methods for cancer biomarkers discovering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to estimate the burden of colorectal cancer (CRC) attributable to high plasma glucose from 1990 to 2019. Data on the disease burden were retrieved from the Global Burden of Disease online database. Estimated average percentage change (EAPC) was used to quantify the age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) and age-standardized disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) rate (ASDR) of high plasma glucose–related CRC trends by sex and location between 1990 and 2019. Globally, the death number and DALYs of CRC attributable to high plasma glucose remained a steady increase at global level from 1990 to 2019, and similar trends have been reported in age-standardized rate. The country with the largest number of death cases and DALYs of high plasma glucose–related CRC in 2019 was China, followed by the United States of America and India. Nearly three-quarters of total countries experienced an increase in the ASMR and ASDR, and the greatest increase of ASMR and ASDR was found in Uzbekistan (EAPC = 5.32) and Equatorial Guinea (EAPC = 4.65), respectively. A negative correlation was found between sociodemographic indices and the EAPC of ASMR and ASDR (r ASMR = −0.259, p < 0.001; r ASDR = −0.282, p < 0.001). A significant increase in mortality and DALYs of CRC attributable to high plasma glucose was observed in global and most countries, especially in the developing countries. Public health policies and targeted programs are needed to reduce the burden of disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exosomes-related long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been reported to play significant roles in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). However, there is little known about the relationship between exosomes-related lncRNAs and ccRCC. This study aimed to select optimal prognostic model based on exosomes-related lncRNAs to provide a methodological reference for high-dimensional data. Based on the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database of 515 ccRCC patients, two risk score models were generated underlying Bayesian spike-and-slab lasso and lasso regression. The optimal model was determined by calculating the area of time-dependent receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves in the TCGA and ArrayExpress databases. The immune patterns and sensitivity of immunotherapy between the high and low groups were further explored. Initially, we constructed two risk score models containing 11 and 7 exosomes-related lncRNAs according to Bayesian spike-and-slab lasso and lasso regression respectively. ROC curves revealed that the model constructed by Bayesian spike-and-slab lasso regression was more reliable in predicting survival at 1, 3, and 5 years, yielding an area under the curves (AUCs) of 0.796, 0.732, and 0.742, respectively. Kaplan–Meier (K-M) curves presented that prognosis was poorer in the high-risk score group (P < 0.001). Additionally, the high-risk score group patients were enriched in immune-activating phenotypes and more sensitive to immunotherapy. The exosomes-related lncRNAs model constructed with Bayesian spike-and-slab lasso regression has higher predictive power for ccRCC patients’ prognosis, which provides methodological reference for the analysis of high-dimensional data in bioinformatics and guides the tailored treatment of ccRCC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel, simple, rapid, and accurate method is reported for the determination of 4-hydroxyphenyllactic acid in human urine by high-performance anion-exchange chromatography with fluorescence detection and magnetic solid-phase extraction. The separation and pretreatment conditions for urine were optimized. The isolation of 4-hydroxyphenyllactic acid was performed with isocratic elution with 4 mmol L−1sodium hydroxide at 0.45 mL min−1. Fluorescence detection was performed at an excitation wavelength of 277 nm and an emission wavelength of 340 nm. Under the optimized conditions, the linear dynamic range and the limit of detection for 4-hydroxyphenyllactic acid were 0.05–10 and 0.020 mg L−1, respectively. The recovery for the analyte was from 86.5 to 105.5%, with relative standard derivations less than 4.12%. The method was used for the determination of 4-hydroxyphenyllactic acid in human urine. Statistically significant differences in the 4-hydroxyphenyllactic acid concentration in urine were obtained between healthy control and individuals with breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Novel TiO2 nanoparticles-coated CNTs (TiO2@CNTs) fabricated by the alcohol-thermal method were used as the reinforcement to prepare aluminum matrix composites through high-intensity ultrasonic-assisted casting, followed by heat treatment. The results of optical microscope showed that the optimum heat treatment process was solution treatment (495 °C, 2 h) + aging treatment (180 °C, 12 h). Under this condition, the Al2Cu and Al2CuMg phases were uniformly precipitated in the composites, and most of them were in a discrete state. TEM results revealed that TiO2 nanoparticles dispersed on the surface of CNTs played the role of an interlayer structure between CNTs and matrix, locking the CNTs and improving the CNTs–Al interfacial bonding. The ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and yield strength (YS) of 1.0 wt%TiO2@CNTs/2024 composite after T6 heat treatment reach 324 MPa and 219 MPa, respectively, which exhibited enhanced UTS and YS than the monolithic 2024 alloy. This was attributed to the synergistic strengthening of multi-mechanisms, such as grain refinement strengthening, load transfer strengthening, dislocation strengthening and, especially, Orowan strengthening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Genetically predicted rheumatoid arthritis was associated with increased frailty index and Fried frailty score. • Neither genetically predicted frailty index nor Fried frailty score showed any association with the risk of rheumatoid arthritis. • Inflammatory cytokines were involved in the mechanism of rheumatoid arthritis-induced frailty. Previous observational studies have suggested the association between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and frailty. However, it remains obscure whether this association is causal. This study aims to investigate the causal association of RA with frailty and the mediation effect of inflammatory cytokines using Mendelian randomization (MR) design. Summary-level data for RA (N = 58,284), frailty index (FI) (N = 175,226), Fried frailty score (FFS) (N = 386,565), and 41 inflammatory cytokines (N = 8,293) were obtained from recent genome-wide association studies. Univariable and multivariable MR analyses were conducted to investigate and verify the causal association of RA with frailty. The potential mediation effects of inflammatory cytokines were estimated using two-step MR. Univariable inverse variance weighted MR analysis suggested that genetically determined RA was associated with increased FI (beta=0.021; 95 % CI: 0.012, 0.03; p = 2.2 × 10−6) and FFS (beta=0.011; 95 %CI: 0.007, 0.015; p = 8.811 × 10−8). The consistent results were observed in multivariable MR analysis after adjustment for asthma, smoking, BMI, physical activity, telomere length, and depression. Mediation analysis showed evidence of an indirect effect of RA on FI through monokine induced by interferon-gamma (MIG) with a mediated proportion of 9.8 % (95 %CI: 4.76 %, 19.05 %), on FFS via MIG and stromal cell-derived factor-1 alpha with a mediated proportion of 9.6 % (95 %CI: 0 %, 18.18 %) and 8.44 % (95 %CI: 0 %, 18.18 %), respectively. This study provided credible evidence that genetically predicted RA was associated with a higher risk of frailty. Additionally, inflammatory cytokines were involved in the mechanism of RA-induced frailty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Mini-KF-SLE-ISD was developed for aldehyde sample preparation in edible oil. • Simultaneous derivatization and extraction of aldehydes in edible oils were achieved. • Box-Behnken design optimization resulted in enhanced detection sensitivity. • The method proved simple, cost-effective, highly sensitive, and easy to automate. • Aldehyde changes during heating exhibited distinctions among various oil types. Heating edible oils generates aldehydes, potentially leading to adverse health effects, making their analysis essential for quality control. This study presents a convenient miniaturized kapok fiber-supported liquid-phase extraction/ in-situ derivatization method for the simultaneous extraction and derivatization of aldehydes in oils. The method involves placing 150 mg oil into a 1 mL pipette tip packed with 25 mg kapok fiber, adding 150 μL ACN with 1.5 mg mL−1 DNPH, and post 30-minute static extraction, retrieving the extractant with a pipettor for liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis. By optimizing critical parameters through a Box-Behnken design, the method exhibits good linearity (1–500 ng g−1, R2 ≥ 0.991), low detection limits (0.2–1.0 ng g−1), excellent accuracy (95.3–107.1%) and high precisions (relative standard deviation < 7.9%). This method simplifies sample preparation processes, cuts solvent use, and facilitates automation. It effectively identifies ten aldehyde variations in six heated oils, displaying distinct profiles consistent with prior research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The association of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) with all‐cause and cause‐specific mortality remains unclear in Chinese population. This study aimed to evaluate the risk of all‐cause, cardiovascular disease (CVD), cancer and other‐cause mortality in Chinese adults using estimated CRF (eCRF). Patients and Methods: We analysed data for 15,566 participants aged ≥20 years recruited in The Rural Chinese Cohort Study during 2007 to 2008 and followed for mortality during 2013 to 2014. eCRF was calculated with sex‐specific longitudinal non‐exercise algorithms. Cox proportional‐hazards models were used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for all‐cause and cause‐specific mortality risk according to baseline eCRF. Results: During a median of 6.01 years of follow‐up, 859 deaths occurred, including 359 from CVD, 221 from cancer, and 279 from other causes. Each 1 metabolic equivalent increment in eCRF was associated with decreased risk of all‐cause mortality (men: HR 0.70, 95% CI [0.66–0.74]; women: 0.59, [0.54–0.64]); CVD mortality (men: 0.70 [0.64–0.77]; women: 0.55, [0.48–0.62]); and other‐cause mortality (men: 0.68 [0.62–0.75]; women: 0.57, [0.49–0.66]). The area under receiver operating characteristic curve was significantly higher for eCRF than its modifiable components (waist circumference, body mass index and resting heart rate) in predicting all‐cause and cause‐specific mortality incidence (all p <.001). Conclusion: eCRF was inversely associated with all‐cause, CVD and other‐cause mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The stability mechanisms of heavy oil–water emulsions are systematically reviewed. • Applications of different demulsifiers are discussed in the demulsification of heavy oil–water emulsions. • Challenges and engineering perspectives are proposed for developing novel demulsifiers. Unconventional petroleum ores have been considered to be an important part of petroleum resources and an important alternative source of chemicals and energy supply. Extremely stable heavy oil–water emulsions frequently encountered in the separation of unconventional petroleum ores. This emulsions considerably increase operation and production costs and cause technical challenges (i.e., fouling and corrosion). Chemical demulsification as a primary method has been extensively applied to destabilize the highly stable emulsions. Demulsifiers play the key role in breaking this emulsions, and understanding the stability mechanisms of heavy oil–water emulsions is the premise of developing effective demulsifiers. This critical review systematically reviews stabilization mechanisms of the heavy oil–water emulsions, including presence of interfacially active substance (e.g., asphaltenes, resins, naphthenic acids, crystalline paraffin, and amphiphilic solids), and their considerable effects on properties of oil–water interface. According to the stability mechanisms, the basic principle and influence factors of chemical demulsification, evaluation and types of demulsifiers, and application of different demulsifiers in breaking heavy oil–water emulsions have been discussed comprehensively. Additionally, the present challenges and future engineering considerations have been touched to provide potential insights and theoretical fundamentals for developing novel demulsification materials in this important heavy oil–water emulsions field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of antidepressants is essential for monitoring patient medication to avoid drug toxicity, complications, or nonadherence. Chromatographic techniques with high sensitivity and reproducibility are the main detection method for antidepressants. Effective pretreatment of biological sample processes is necessary prior to instrumental analysis. Magnetic solid-phase extraction (MSPE) has received much attention for its advantages of simple operation, rapidity, cost-effectiveness and low organic solvent consumption. Therefore, the development of a suitable and green magnetic sorbent for the detection of antidepressants in plasma and urine is apparently necessary. (88) A magnetic phytic acid-modified kapok fiber biochar sorbent (Fe 3 O 4 /PAKFBC) was successfully synthesized by pyrolytic impregnation and physical milling methods. Fe 3 O 4 /PAKFBC exhibited a large specific surface area (214 m2 g−1) and a rich pore structure (5–10 nm). The extraction equilibrium, using 10 mg Fe 3 O 4 /PAKFBC, can be completed in about 1 min. The density functional theory (DFT) results showed that the adsorption mechanism of Fe 3 O 4 /PAKFBC on the six antidepressants mainly included electrostatic interactions, van der Waals interactions, π-π interactions and weak hydrogen bonding. Examination using the greenness assessment tools showed that the developed method exhibited excellent greenness. By combining with liquid chromatography-ultraviolet (LC-UV), a quantitative method with good linearity (R2 > 0.993) and relative recoveries (92.4–107.7%) and negligible matrix effect (−11.5–6.0%) was developed. The Fe 3 O 4 /PAKFBC successfully detected six antidepressants in plasma and urine samples, requiring no pH adjustment with buffer salts. (142) The environmental sustainability of the proposed methods was affirmed by six greenness evaluation tools, all indicating exceptional eco-friendliness. The Fe 3 O 4 /PAKFBC demonstrated outstanding greenness in both its creation and analytical application, proving highly effective in real sample applications and showcasing potential for broader use. This study contributes to a deeper and broader understanding of the microscopic adsorption mechanism, which can help in the optimization and development of more green sorbents. (69). • Preparation of Fe 3 O 4 /PAKFBC sorbent without the use of toxic solvents. • Fe 3 O 4 /PAKFBC has a large specific surface area (214 m2/g) and rich pore structure. • PA impregnation increases hydrophilicity and dispersion of KFBC. • DFT reveal the adsorption mechanism of Fe 3 O 4 /PAKFBC with six antidepressants. • The method with excellent greenness in sorbent preparation and sample analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The addition of synthetic phenolic antioxidants can effectively delay or prevent oxidation of edible oils. However, excessive use of these antioxidants can have negative impacts, which emphasizes the importance of accurate analysis methods to determine their presence in edible oils. Given the large number of food samples involved in regulatory purposes, there is a need to develop high-throughput and cost-effective detection methods for routine analysis. However, the existing methods are not suitable, indicating a need for further improvement. This study presents a technique that combines miniaturized-kapok fiber-supported liquid-phase extraction (mini-KF-SLE) with gas chromatography-flame ionization detection (GC-FID) to determine synthetic antioxidants like 3- tert -butyl-4-hydroxyanisole, 3,5-di- tert -butyl-4-hydroxytoluene, and tert -butylhydroquinone in edible oils. The mini-KF-SLE device consists of 20 mg of kapok fibers placed in a 1 mL pipette tip attached to a pipette. The extraction procedure involves three simple steps: loading the oil sample (150 mg), adding the extractant (150 µL of ACN), and eluting the extractant by applying air pressure using a pipette. The developed mini-KF-SLE-GC-FID method shows satisfactory quantitation ability (R2 >0.99) and detection limits of 0.4–0.5 µg/g. Moreover, the relative standard deviations for all analytes were below 9.2%, indicating good precise of the method for routine analysis. The proposed method also exhibits excellent environmental friendliness, as evidenced by three widely recognized metrics. Overall, the mini-KF-SLE-GC-FID method provides a convenient, low-cost, environmentally friendly, and easy to automate alternative for routinely determining synthetic antioxidants in edible oils. • Mini-KF-SLE was combined with GC for analyzing synthetic antioxidants in oils. • Extraction involves a simple three-step protocol using a pipette. • The method consumes only 150 mg of edible oil sample and 150 µL of ACN. • Three metrics of AES, GAPI, and AGREE demonstrates excellent greenness. • The method is low-cost and easy to automate, suitable for routine analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The Naxiang Basin, located within the Qin-and-Dabie Mountains orogenic belt in central China, is a small intermountain faulted basin, in which the late Eocene Hetaoyuan Formation in the Anpeng Oilfield is the low porosity and ultra-low permeability glutenite reservoirs. The large-scale fractures are mainly developed in the thick-bedded conglomerates and gravel-bearing gritstones, the small-scale jointed-fractures bounded by layer are mainly developed in the medium-granular and fine sandstones between the conglomerates or gravel-bearing gritstones. There also developed three kinds of micro-fractures, namely intergranular fractures, intragranular fractures and transgranular fractures, in the tight glutenites. The fractures in the glutenite reservoirs are of chiefly high dip-angles. They assume chiefly the E-W strikes, next are the NE-SW and NW-SE strikes. On the log curve, fractures usually show such responses as a decrease of the deep and shallow lateral resistivities, an increase of the acoustic time difference, a reduction of the density, an increase of the compensation neutrons, an occurrence of middle and high gamma ray and an expansion of the calipers. Fractures make contributions to the low porosity and ultra-low permeability glutenite reservoirs by improving the permeability and then porosity. Micro-fractures are the important channels connecting intergranular and intragranular solution pores, thereby making better the connectivity within the tight glutenite reservoirs. The small- and medium-scale fractures serve as the flow channels within the layers of fine and medium-granular sandstones, while the large-scale fractures serve as the main flow channels for the whole reservoir. Under the impact of the present-day stress, the NE-SW fractures perpendicular to the minimum principal stress assume a tensile state and have good connectivity, large apertures and high permeability, and are the major direction for fluid flow, thereby providing a major basis for a further development. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Cycling has been suggested to be related to risk of all-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality. However, a quantitative comprehensive assessment of the dose–response association of cycling with risk of all-cause and CVD mortality has not been reported. We performed a meta-analysis of cohort studies assessing the risk of all-cause and CVD mortality with cycling. Methods: PubMed and Embase databases were searched for relevant articles published up to December 13, 2019. Random-effects models were used to estimate the summary relative risk (RR) of all-cause and CVD mortality with cycling. Restricted cubic splines were used to evaluate the dose–response association. Results: We included 9 articles (17 studies) with 478,847 participants and 27,860 cases (22,415 from all-cause mortality and 5445 from CVD mortality) in the meta-analysis. Risk of all-cause mortality was reduced 23% with the highest versus lowest cycling level [RR 0.77, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.67–0.88], and CVD mortality was reduced 24% (RR 0.76, 95% CI 0.65–0.89). We found a linear association between cycling and all-cause mortality (Pnon-linearity = 0.208); the risk was reduced by 9% (RR 0.91, 95% CI 0.86–0.96) with each five metabolic equivalent of task (MET)-h/week increase in cycling. We found an approximately U-shaped association between cycling and CVD mortality (Pnon-linearity = 0.034), with the lowest risk at approximately 15 MET-h/week of cycling. Conclusions: Our findings based on quantitative data suggest that any level of cycling is better than none for all-cause mortality. However, for CVD mortality, one must choose an appropriate level of cycling, with an approximate optimum of 15 MET-h/week (equal to 130 min/week at 6.8 MET). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]