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The osteochondral defects (OCDs) resulting from the treatment of giant cell tumors of bone (GCTB) often present two challenges for clinicians: tumor residue leading to local recurrence and non-healing of OCDs. Therefore, this study focuses on developing a double-layer PGPC-PGPH scaffold using shell-core structure nanofibers to achieve “spatiotemporal control” for treating OCDs caused by GCTB. It addresses two key challenges: eliminating tumor residue after local excision and stimulating osteochondral regeneration in non-healing OCD cases. With a shell layer of protoporphyrin IX (PpIX)/gelatin (GT) and inner cores containing chondroitin sulfate (CS)/poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) or hydroxyapatite (HA)/PLGA, coaxial electrospinning technology was used to create shell-core structured PpIX/GT-CS/PLGA and PpIX/GT-HA/PLGA nanofibers. These nanofibers were shattered into nano-scaled short fibers, and then combined with polyethylene oxide and hyaluronan to formulate distinct 3D printing inks. The upper layer consists of PpIX/GT-CS/PLGA ink, and the lower layer is made from PpIX/GT-HA/PLGA ink, allowing for the creation of a double-layer PGPC-PGPH scaffold using 3D printing technique. After GCTB lesion removal, the PGPC-PGPH scaffold is surgically implanted into the OCDs. The sonosensitizer PpIX in the shell layer undergoes sonodynamic therapy to selectively damage GCTB tissue, effectively eradicating residual tumors. Subsequently, the thermal effect of sonodynamic therapy accelerates the shell degradation and release of CS and HA within the core layer, promoting stem cell differentiation into cartilage and bone tissues at the OCD site in the correct anatomical position. This innovative scaffold provides temporal control for anti-tumor treatment followed by tissue repair and spatial control for precise osteochondral regeneration. [Display omitted] •Utilizing coaxial electrospinning, we generated shell-core structured nanofibers comprising a PpIX/GT shell layer and inner cores containing CS/PLGA or HA/PLGA.•By converting these nanofibers into short fibers, we developed distinct 3D printing inks, facilitating the creation of a double-layer PGPC-PGPH scaffold via advanced 3D printing methods.•The sonosensitizer PpIX embedded in the shell layer demonstrates targeted sonodynamic therapy, effectively damaging GCTB cells.•The specific inducing factors within the inner core precisely direct chondrogenesis in the PGPC layer and osteogenesis in the PGPH layer.•The PGPC-PGPH scaffold offers temporal control by eradicating GCTB cells followed by facilitating osteochondral regeneration, while also ensuring precise regeneration of upper cartilage and underlying bone through spatial control.

ObjectiveTo describe temporal trends in the incidence and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) across sociodemographic index (SDI) quintiles and sexes from 1990 to 2019.MethodsData on RA incidence and DALYs with a 95% uncertainty interval from 1990 to 2019 were extracted from the Global Burden of Disease 2019. Subsequently, trends across SDI quintiles and sexes from 1990 to 2019 were determined using joinpoint regression and age–period–cohort analyses.ResultsA significant upward trend in the global age-standardised incidence rate (ASIR) of RA was observed for both sexes from 1990 to 2019 (average annual per cent change (AAPC): 0.214, 95% CI 0.179 to 0.249, p<0.001). Specifically, the ASIR of RA for both sexes demonstrated a significant increasing trend at all SDI levels, with the highest AAPC observed in the low SDI regions. A non-significant increasing trend in the global age-standardised DALYs rate (ASDR) of RA was observed for both sexes from 1990 to 2019 (AAPC: 0.017, 95% CI −0.051 to 0.085, p=0.621). Varying trends in ASDR were observed for both sexes and across SDI quintiles. Additionally, diverse age–period–cohort patterns in incidence and DALYs were observed across SDI quintiles and sexes.ConclusionThe significant heterogeneity observed in the temporal trends of the incidence and DALYs of RA across SDI quintiles and sexes suggests potential disparities in the prevention, management and treatment of RA. Therefore, establishment of practical and customised healthcare initiatives for specific populations across SDI quintiles and sexes and allocation of supplementary health resources to high-risk populations are crucial for effective management of RA.

Background Tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) arthrodesis with a retrograde intramedullary nail for severe tibiotalar and talocalcaneal arthritis has a high fusion rate; however, no studies have focused on how to handle the fibula intraoperatively to achieve better results. This study aimed to compare the efficacies of various fibular procedures. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the cases of severe tibiotalar and talocalcaneal arthritis in adults treated with TTC arthrodesis using a retrograde intramedullary nail between January 2012 and July 2017. The patients were divided into three groups according to different fibular procedures: Fibular osteotomy (FO), fibular strut (FS), and fibular preservation (FP). Functional outcomes and pain were assessed using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle and hindfoot score and visual analog scales (VAS), respectively. The operation time, fusion time, radiographic evaluation, and complications were also recorded. Results Fifty-eight patients with an average age of 53.2 (range, 32–69) years were enrolled in the final analysis. The numbers of patients enrolled in the three groups were 21, 19, and 18 in the FO, FS, and FP groups, respectively. The mean postoperative follow-up time was 66.0 (range, 60–78) months. All groups showed a high fusion rate (90.5% for FO, 94.7% for FS, and 94.4% for FP) and significant improvement in AOFAS ankle and hindfoot scores and VAS scores at the latest follow-up. There were no significant differences in these parameters among the three groups. The mean operation time of FS (131.3 ± 17.1 min) was longer than that of FO (119.3 ± 11.7 min) and FS (112.2 ± 12.6 min), but the fusion time was shorter (15.1 ± 2.8 weeks for FS, 17.2 ± 1.9 weeks for FO, and 16.8 ± 1.9 weeks for FP). Statistically significant differences were observed in these parameters. Conclusions TTC arthrodesis using a retrograde intramedullary nail is an effective procedure with a high rate of fusion to treat severe tibiotalar and talocalcaneal arthritis in adults; however, FSs can shorten fusion time when compared with FO and FP. Level of clinical evidence Level 3.

Background To clarify the injury mechanism of the avulsion fracture of the fifth metatarsal combining 3-dimensional (3D) fracture mapping with anatomical measurements. Methods Two hundred twenty-two patients with the avulsion fractures of the fifth metatarsal base, who were admitted to our hospital from August 2015 to August 2020. The computed tomography (CT) scans were used to generate the 3-D images of all mapped fracture lines for the avulsion fractures of the fifth metatarsal base were compiled in an overall 3D image. The fifth metatarsal base of 8 unpaired lower limbs of adult Asian frozen cadaveric specimens were also dissected to observe and measure the specific locations of the attachment points of the peroneus brevis, lateral band of the plantar fascia, and peroneus tertius to the fifth metatarsal base. Results Based on the type of fracture line produced and the specific locations of the attachment points of the tendons or fascia, the avulsion fractures of the fifth metatarsal base can be classified into three types: type I predominantly involves the action of the lateral band of the plantar fascia; type II predominantly involves the action of the peroneus brevis; type IIIA involves the joint action of the peroneus brevis and lateral band of the plantar fascia with one fracture line, and type IIIB involves the joint action of the peroneus brevis and lateral band of the plantar fascia with two fracture lines. Conclusion The lateral band of the plantar fascia and peroneus brevis play a major role, either separately or together, in avulsion fractures of the fifth metatarsal base. With this knowledge, we propose a novel classification based on the injury mechanism, which can serve as a reference for clinical treatment and diagnosis. Level of evidence Level III, retrospective case series.

In this paper, we introduce a new type of feedback shift register based on words, called σ-linear feedback shift register (σ-LFSR) which can make full use of the instructions of modern CPUs so that we can find good σ-LFSR with simple structure and fast software implementation. After analysis, we find a class of simple σ-LFSR with maximal period and give an algorithm of searching for those σ-LFSRs. As a result, we provide a new optional fast component in the design of modern word-based stream ciphers.

HighlightsVarious MOF materials were synthesized and investigated as ZIB cathodes.A long-term stable ZIF-8@Zn anode was proposed by coating ZIF-8 material on the surface of zinc foils.High-performance aqueous ZIBs were constructed using the Mn(BTC) cathode and the ZIF-8@Zn anode.Rechargeable aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) have been gaining increasing interest for large-scale energy storage applications due to their high safety, good rate capability, and low cost. However, the further development of ZIBs is impeded by two main challenges: Currently reported cathode materials usually suffer from rapid capacity fading or high toxicity, and meanwhile, unstable zinc stripping/plating on Zn anode seriously shortens the cycling life of ZIBs. In this paper, metal–organic framework (MOF) materials are proposed to simultaneously address these issues and realize high-performance ZIBs with Mn(BTC) MOF cathodes and ZIF-8-coated Zn (ZIF-8@Zn) anodes. Various MOF materials were synthesized, and Mn(BTC) MOF was found to exhibit the best Zn2+-storage ability with a capacity of 112 mAh g−1. Zn2+ storage mechanism of the Mn(BTC) was carefully studied. Besides, ZIF-8@Zn anodes were prepared by coating ZIF-8 MOF material on Zn foils. Unique porous structure of the ZIF-8 coating guided uniform Zn stripping/plating on the surface of Zn anodes. As a result, the ZIF-8@Zn anodes exhibited stable Zn stripping/plating behaviors, with 8 times longer cycle life than bare Zn foils. Based on the above, high-performance aqueous ZIBs were constructed using the Mn(BTC) cathodes and the ZIF-8@Zn anodes, which displayed an excellent long-cycling stability without obvious capacity fading after 900 charge/discharge cycles. This work provides a new opportunity for high-performance energy storage system.

Highlights Pourbaix diagram of Mn–Zn–H 2 O system was used to analyze the charge–discharge processes of Zn/MnO 2 batteries. Electrochemical reactions with the participation of various ions inside Zn/MnO 2 batteries were revealed. A detailed explanation of phase evolution inside Zn/MnO 2 batteries was provided. Aqueous rechargeable Zn/MnO 2 zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) are reviving recently due to their low cost, non-toxicity, and natural abundance. However, their energy storage mechanism remains controversial due to their complicated electrochemical reactions. Meanwhile, to achieve satisfactory cyclic stability and rate performance of the Zn/MnO 2 ZIBs, Mn 2+ is introduced in the electrolyte (e.g., ZnSO 4 solution), which leads to more complicated reactions inside the ZIBs systems. Herein, based on comprehensive analysis methods including electrochemical analysis and Pourbaix diagram, we provide novel insights into the energy storage mechanism of Zn/MnO 2 batteries in the presence of Mn 2+ . A complex series of electrochemical reactions with the co-participation of Zn 2+ , H + , Mn 2+ , SO 4 2− , and OH − were revealed. During the first discharge process, co-insertion of Zn 2+ and H + promotes the transformation of MnO 2 into Zn x MnO 4 , MnOOH, and Mn 2 O 3 , accompanying with increased electrolyte pH and the formation of ZnSO 4 ·3Zn(OH) 2 ·5H 2 O. During the subsequent charge process, Zn x MnO 4 , MnOOH, and Mn 2 O 3 revert to α-MnO 2 with the extraction of Zn 2+ and H + , while ZnSO 4 ·3Zn(OH) 2 ·5H 2 O reacts with Mn 2+ to form ZnMn 3 O 7 ·3H 2 O. In the following charge/discharge processes, besides aforementioned electrochemical reactions, Zn 2+ reversibly insert into/extract from α-MnO 2 , Zn x MnO 4 , and ZnMn 3 O 7 ·3H 2 O hosts; ZnSO 4 ·3Zn(OH) 2 ·5H 2 O, Zn 2 Mn 3 O 8 , and ZnMn 2 O 4 convert mutually with the participation of Mn 2+ . This work is believed to provide theoretical guidance for further research on high-performance ZIBs.

Extensive research has been conducted to scrutinize employee loyalty, but scant attention has been directed toward understanding this phenomenon within the context of the millennial workforce in China. To address this research gap, in this study we investigated the association between Confucian leadership and employee loyalty among millennials in China, incorporating the mediating role of supervisor-subordinate guanxi in this relationship. Participants were 250 employees of 15 firms, who completed a self-administered survey. We found a positive relationship between Confucian leadership and millennial employee loyalty. Moreover, supervisor-subordinate guanxi was a significant and partial mediator of this relationship. These findings suggest that it is important to adopt Confucian leadership as well as building quality supervisor-subordinate guanxi when enhancing millennial employee loyalty.

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) has long been considered as a metabolic disease characterized by metabolic reprogramming due to the abnormal accumulation of lipid droplets in the cytoplasm. However, the prognostic value of metabolism-related genes in ccRCC remains unclear. In our study, we investigated the associations between metabolism-related gene profile and prognosis of ccRCC patients in the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Importantly, we first constructed a metabolism-related prognostic model based on ten genes (ALDH6A1, FBP1, HAO2, TYMP, PSAT1, IL4I1, P4HA3, HK3, CPT1B, and CYP26A1) using Lasso cox regression analysis. The Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that our model efficiently predicts prognosis in TCGA_KIRC Cohort and the clinical proteomic tumor analysis consortium (CPTAC_ccRCC) Cohort. Using time-dependent ROC analysis, we showed the model has optimal performance in predicting long-term survival. Besides, the multivariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated our model is an independent prognostic factor. The risk score calculated for each patient was significantly associated with various clinicopathological parameters. Notably, the gene set enrichment analysis indicated that fatty acid metabolism was enriched considerably in low-risk patients. In contrast, the high-risk patients were more associated with non-metabolic pathways. In summary, our study provides novel insight into metabolism-related genes’ roles in ccRCC.

The spatial organization of the genome plays a critical role in regulating gene expression. Recent chromatin interaction mapping studies have revealed that topologically associating domains and subdomains are fundamental building blocks of the three-dimensional genome. Identifying such hierarchical structures is a critical step toward understanding the three-dimensional structure–function relationship of the genome. Existing computational algorithms lack statistical assessment of domain predictions and are computationally inefficient for high-resolution Hi-C data. We introduce the Gaussian Mixture model And Proportion test (GMAP) algorithm to address the above-mentioned challenges. Using simulated and experimental Hi-C data, we show that domains identified by GMAP are more consistent with multiple lines of supporting evidence than three state-of-the-art methods. Application of GMAP to normal and cancer cells reveals several unique features of subdomain boundary as compared to domain boundary, including its higher dynamics across cell types and enrichment for somatic mutations in cancer. Spatial organization of the genome plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression. Here the authors introduce GMAP, the Gaussian Mixture model And Proportion test, to identify topologically associating domains and subdomains in Hi-C data.