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Summary: The dynamic ranking, due to its increasing importance in many applications, is becoming crucial, especially with the collection of voluminous time‐dependent data. One such application is sports statistics, where dynamic ranking aids in forecasting the performance of competitive teams, drawing on historical and current data. Despite its usefulness, predicting and inferring rankings pose challenges in environments necessitating time‐dependent modelling. This paper introduces a spectral ranker called Kernel Rank Centrality, designed to rank items based on pairwise comparisons over time. The ranker operates via kernel smoothing in the Bradley–Terry model, utilising a Markov chain model. Unlike the maximum likelihood approach, the spectral ranker is nonparametric, demands fewer model assumptions and computations and allows for real‐time ranking. We establish the asymptotic distribution of the ranker by applying an innovative group inverse technique, resulting in a uniform and precise entrywise expansion. This result allows us to devise a new inferential method for predictive inference, previously unavailable in existing approaches. Our numerical examples showcase the ranker's utility in predictive accuracy and constructing an uncertainty measure for prediction, leveraging data from the National Basketball Association (NBA). The results underscore our method's potential compared with the gold standard in sports, the Arpad Elo rating system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a novel Seeds-Counting pipeline harnessing deep learning algorithms to facilitate the automation of yield prediction prior to harvesting, a crucial component of the breeding process. Unlike existing methods that often cater to a single seed species or those with similar shapes, our approach is capable of accurately estimating the number of seeds across a diverse range of species. The pipeline incorporates a classification network for seed image categorization, along with object detection models specifically tailored to accommodate the morphologies of different seeds. By integrating a seed classifier, three distinct seed detectors, and post-processing filters, our method not only showcases exceptional accuracy but also exhibits robust generalization capabilities across various conditions. Demonstrating an error rate of less than 2% in the test set and achieving accuracy rates exceeding 97% in the extended set, the proposed pipeline offers a viable and efficient solution for high-throughput phenotyping and precision agriculture, effectively overcoming the challenges posed by the diverse morphologies of seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laser bending forming, as a flexible and die-less forming approach, facilitates the three-dimensional shaping of sheets through the generation of thermal stress via laser-material interaction. In this study, the bending forming characteristics of CoCrFeMnNi high-entropy alloy sheets induced by nanosecond pulse laser irradiation were systematically investigated. The effects of parameters including laser power, scanning speed, number of scans, scanning interval, and sheet size on the bending angle, cross-sectional morphology, and hardness were studied in detail under both the laser single-line and multi-line scanning modes. The experimental results confirmed the effectiveness of nanosecond pulse laser irradiation for achieving accurate formation of CoCrFeMnNi sheets, with the successful fabrication of J, L, and U-shaped metal components. Apart from the forming ability, the cross-sectional hardness was significantly increased due to the grain refinement effect of nanosecond pulse laser irradiation. Furthermore, employing the laser single-line scanning mode enabled the effective rectification of overbending parts, showcasing complete recovery for small-angle overbending, and a remarkable 91% recovery for larger-angle overbending. This study provides an important basis for the bendability of CoCrFeMnNi sheets by laser forming and elucidates the evolution of the microstructure and mechanical properties in the bending region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractIn engineering practice, some products start deteriorating only after a period of usage. Moreover, the degradation-free periods of different products show a phenomenon of clustering, that is, there are several heterogeneous subpopulations. Both the degradation-free period and its subpopulation label are often unobservable, which poses great challenges to the reliability modeling and evaluation. In this paper, a randomly delayed degradation model considering the heterogeneous initiation time is developed, where the mixture lognormal distribution and the Wiener process are integrated to characterize the overall degradation process. The model parameters are estimated by the stochastic expectation maximization algorithm which also produces the estimator of the degradation-free period for each product simultaneously. In addition, inferences on the choice of parameters’ initial values, interval estimation, determination of the number of subpopulations and classification of products are also presented. Finally, simulation studies are carried out to validate the proposed formulas and methods, and a practical example is provided for illustration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are important components of the tumor microenvironment (TME), which drive the tumor immune escape by inducing immunosuppression. The expansion and function of MDSCs are tightly associated with signaling pathways induced by molecules from tumor cells, stromal cells, and activated immune cells in the TME. Although these pathways have been well-characterized, the understanding of the epigenetic regulators involved is incomplete. Since histone modifications are the most studied epigenetic changes in MDSCs, we summarize current knowledge on the role of histone modifications in MDSCs within this review. We first discuss the influence of the TME on histone modifications in MDSCs, with an emphasis on histone modifications and modifiers that direct MDSC differentiation and function. Furthermore, we highlight current epigenetic interventions that can reverse MDSC-induced immunosuppression by modulating histone modifications and discuss future research directions to fully appreciate the role of histone modifications in MDSCs. [Display omitted] • MDSCs induce immunosuppression and drive tumor immune escape in the TME. • Signaling pathways in the TME impact histone modifications that regulate MDSC differentiation and function. • Epigenetic interventions targeting histone modifications hold potential for reversing MDSC-induced immunosuppression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to restore grating lobe artifacts and improve the image resolution of sparse array ultrasonography via a deep learning predictive model. A deep learning assisted sparse array was developed using only 64 or 16 channels out of the 128 channels in which the pitch is two or eight times the original array. The deep learning assisted sparse array imaging system was demonstrated on ex vivo porcine teeth. 64- and 16-channel sparse array images were used as the input and corresponding 128-channel dense array images were used as the ground truth. The structural similarity index measure, mean squared error, and peak signal-to-noise ratio of predicted images improved significantly (p < 0.0001). The resolution of predicted images presented close values to ground truth images (0.18 mm and 0.15 mm versus 0.15 mm). The gingival thickness measurement showed a high level of agreement between the predicted sparse array images and the ground truth images, as indicated with a bias of -0.01 mm and 0.02 mm for the 64- and 16-channel predicted images, respectively, and a Pearson's r = 0.99 (p < 0.0001) for both. The gingival thickness bias measured by deep learning assisted sparse array imaging and clinical probing needle was found to be <0.05 mm. Additionally, the deep learning model showed capability of generalization. To conclude, the deep learning assisted sparse array can reconstruct high-resolution ultrasound image using only 16 channels of 128 channels. The deep learning model performed generalization capability for the 64-channel array, while the 16-channel array generalization would require further optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Gaussian function was initially adopted to model the tunneling-induced ground surface settlement, but it could not describe the porosity's effect on the settlement. To solve the problem, Yu's fractal theory is implemented to model the porous grand's geometric property, and the surface settlement profile is modeled by a fractal solitary wave, furthermore, the effects of the maximal surface settlement, the porosity and Yu's fractal dimension on the settlement's profile are discussed. The new model offers a new view to predict the morphology of the surface settlement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Backgrounds: The kidney is an easily affected organ with sepsis which is a main underlying cause of acute kidney injury (AKI). Histone‐modifying lysine‐specific demethylase 2B (KDM2B) is involved in numerous pathological processes, such as cell senescence and tumor development. However, the role of KDM2B in sepsis‐induced AKI is unclear. Objects: To investigate the role of KDM2B on cell viability, inflammation and oxidative stress of sepsis‐associated AKI, and the involved signaling pathways. Methods: An AKI model in vitro was established through lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induction in HK‐2 cells. Western blots were performed to evaluate the expression of KDM2B, cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), p65, c‐Jun and c‐Fos, as well as p65 phosphorylation. Cell viability was measured using CCK‐8 kit. ELISA was performed to analyze the production of layered double hydroxide (LDH), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐18, vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (VCAM‐1), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), and H2O2. The qPCR was used to evaluate the transcription level of TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐18, and VCAM‐1. Results: KDM2B knockdown alleviated LPS‐induced cytotoxicity, decreased LDH release, and improved cell viability. KDM2B knockdown reduced concentration of inflammation‐related molecules including TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐18, and VCAM‐1, and inhibited their transcription. Moreover, KDM2B knockdown promoted the quantity of SOD and GSH, while declined the production of MDA, H2O2, COX2, and iNOS. Further, KDM2B played a role in LPS‐induced HK‐2 cell injury by activating nuclear factor κB (NF‐κB) and activator protein 1 (AP‐1) pathways. Conclusion: KDM2B knockdown reduced cytotoxicity, inflammation and oxidative stress in LPS‐induced AKI via inhibiting NF‐κB and AP‐1 pathways, indicating KDM2B may be a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of sepsis‐associated AKI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circular RNA (circRNA) CDR1as is emerging as a vital tumour regulator. This study aimed to investigate its diagnostic and prognostic value and molecular mechanisms for gastric cancer (GC). CDR1as expression in GC and adjacent normal tissues (n = 82), paired plasma (n = 65) and plasma exosome samples (n = 68) from GC patients and healthy controls were determined by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Correlations between CDR1as level and clinicopathological factors of GC patients were analysed. Its diagnostic and prognostic value was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and Cox regression analysis combined with Kaplan-Meier plots. CDR1as-regulated proteins and signalling pathways were identified by quantitative proteomics and bioinformatic analysis. CDR1as was downregulated in GC tissues and associated with tumour size and neural invasion. Plasma- and exosome-derived CDR1as was upregulated in GC patients while plasma-derived CDR1as level was related to lymphatic metastasis. Area under ROC curve (AUC) of tissue-, plasma- and exosome-derived CDR1as was 0.782, 0.641, 0.536 while combination of plasma CDR1as, serum CEA and CA19-9 increased AUC to 0.786. Distal metastasis, TNM stage and tissue-derived CDR1as level were independent predictors for overall survival (OS) of patients. MiRNA signalling networks and glycine, serine and threonine metabolism were regulated by CDR1as and HSPE1 might be a key protein. CDR1as is a crucial regulator and promising biomarker for GC diagnosis and prognosis. CDR1as level in tumour tissues and plasma of GC patients was associated with tumour progression. The findings indicate that CDR1as is involved in GC progression and is a potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In quasi-synchronous frequency-hopping multiple access (QS-FHMA) systems, low-hit-zone (LHZ) frequency-hopping sequence (FHS) sets have been well-applied to reduce mutual interference (MI). In this paper, we propose three constructions of LHZ FHS sets with new parameters via interleaving techniques. The obtained sequences can be verified that they are optimal with respect to the Peng–Fan–Lee bound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The scoring processes of home and away team in basketball games are modeled by two dependent inverse Gaussian processes with a team-specific parameter that measures the team strength. A common latent variable that measures the game pace is designed to characterize the dependence. A moment estimation method combined with maximum likelihood estimation is proposed to fit the parameters and a Bayesian method is applied to update the estimation and make in-game predictions. It is shown that the proposed model can obtain the same performance as the benchmark model, Gamma process model, in outcome prediction, point spread betting and model gambling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intrinsically stretchable organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs) are being pursued as the next‐generation tissue‐like bioelectronic technologies to improve the interfacing with the soft human body. However, the performance of current intrinsically stretchable OECTs is far inferior to their rigid counterparts. In this work, for the first time, the authors report intrinsically stretchable OECTs with overall performance benchmarkable to conventional rigid devices. In particular, oxygen level in the stretchable substrate is revealed to have a significant impact on the on/off ratio. By employing stretchable substrates with low oxygen permeabilities, the on/off ratio is elevated from ≈10 to a record‐high value of ≈104, which is on par with a rigid OECT. The device remained functional after cyclic stretching tests. This work demonstrates that intrinsically stretchable OECTs have the potential to serve as a new building block for emerging soft bioelectronic applications such as electronic skin, soft implantables, and soft neuromorphic computing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The CrMnFeCoNi alloy with a stable single face-centered cubic (FCC) phase, representing a typical class of high-entropy alloys (HEAs), has garnered considerable attention owing to their exceptional mechanical properties. However, the inherent low hardness has impeded their utilization in structural or contact components. This study attempted to improve the surface hardness of CrMnFeCoNi HEA via grain refinement realized by nanosecond pulse laser irradiation. The effects of laser parameters on the surface microstructures, chemical composition, and mechanical properties were investigated, and the mechanism for grain refinement was analyzed. The experimental results showed that the hardness of the laser-irradiated surface was significantly improved without altering the chemical composition. This study provides a simple but effective method to refine the grain of HEAs and improve their surface hardness. • Grain refinement was achieved on CrMnFeCoNi HEA via nanosecond laser irradiation. • Surface hardness of the irradiated surface was significantly improved. • The effect of laser parameters on microstructures and hardness was investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, air pollution has become one of the most serious environmental problems facing humanity and an inescapable obstacle limiting the sustainable development of cities and society. Although air quality sensing and management systems based on artificial intelligence and signal analysis are evolving as essential parts of intelligent cities, the mixture of local emission sources and regional transport of air pollutants still makes PM 2.5 long-term prediction challenging, especially under complex geographical and climatic conditions. In this paper, the complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition based multi-stream informer (CEEMD-MsI) is proposed to predict the hourly PM 2.5 concentration, and extensive testing and comparisons are carried out in four typical cities in Shandong, China. Firstly, CEEMD is used for signal pre-processing to construct the intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) based multi-channel representations. Then MsI is specifically designed to learn both temporal and spatial features, and complete the PM 2.5 concentration prediction. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first attempt to predict long-term PM 2.5 concentrations using a deep learning model driven by data collected from monitoring stations spanning long distances and diverse terrains. Finally, test results demonstrate that CEEMD-MsI achieves the best PM 2.5 prediction performance by comparing it with state-of-the-art methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tuning diradical character is an important topic for organic diradicaloids. Herein, we report the precise borylation enabling structural isomerism as an effective strategy to modulate diradical character and thereby properties of organic diradicaloids. We synthesized a new B‐containing polycyclic hydrocarbon that has the indeno[1,2‐b]fluorene π‐skeleton with the β‐carbons bonding to two boron atoms. Detailed theoretical and experimental results show that this bonding pattern leads to its distinctive electronic structures and properties in comparison to that of its isomeric molecule. This molecule has the efficient conjugation between boron atoms and π‐skeleton, resulting in downshifted LUMO and HOMO levels. Moreover, it exhibits smaller diradical character and thereby inhibited diradical properties, such as significantly blue‐shifted light absorption, larger energy bandgap and weak para‐magnetic resonance. Notably, this B‐containing polycyclic hydrocarbon possesses much stronger Lewis acidity and its Lewis acid‐base adducts display enhanced diradical character, demonstrating the positive effects of Lewis coordination on modulating diradical performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to the broad application scope of phosphors for light and display, the development of narrow-band light-emitting phosphors has recently gained considerable research attention. In this study, a new type of narrow-band blue light-emitting phosphor, Rb2HfSi3O9:Eu2+, with a full width at half maximum (FWHM) of 64 nm was synthesized successfully. Upon the near visible ultraviolet (NUV) light excitation, the internal quantum efficiency of Rb2HfSi3O9:Eu2+ was 68%. It also exhibited good thermal stability, which was higher than that of a commercial blue phosphor (BaMgAl10O17:Eu2+) at 150 °C. The significant photoluminescence properties of Rb2HfSi3O9:Eu2+ were found to be related to its robust crystal structure, which was investigated in detail. The results indicate that Eu2+-activated Rb2HfSi3O9 is a promising phosphor for use in white light-emitting diodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Alginate lyases (EC 4.4.2.3/4.4.2.11) have been applied to produce alginate oligosaccharides, which have physiological advantages such as prebiotic and antidiabetic effects, and are of benefit in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Extracellular production of recombinant proteins in Escherichia coli presents advantages including simplified downstream processing and high productivity; however, the presence of certain signal peptides does not always ensure successful secretion, which make the extracellular production of alginate lyase in E. coli rarely reported but of great significance. RESULTS: A PL7 family alginate lyase, Aly01, with its native signal peptide from Vibrio natriegens SK42.001, was identified, characterized, and extracellularly expressed in E. coli. The enzyme specifically released trisaccharide from alginate and was strictly NaCl activated. Green fluorescent protein (GFP) was fused with the Aly01 signal peptide and successfully secreted in E. coli to expand the feasibility of using this signal peptide to produce other heterologous proteins extracellularly. Through a synergistic strategy of utilizing Terrific Broth (TB) medium supplemented with 120 mmol L–1 glycine and 10 mmol L–1 calcium, the lag phase of protein secretion was reduced to 3 h from 12 h; meanwhile calcium remedied glycine‐related cell growth impairment, leading to further enhancement of overall enzyme productivity, reaching a maximum of 4.55 U mL−1. CONCLUSION: A new salt‐activated alginate lyase, Aly01, was identified and characterized. E. coli employed its signal peptide and extracellularly expressed both Aly01 and a GFP, which indicated the signal peptide of Aly01 could be a powerful tool for extracellular production of other heterologous proteins in E. coli. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optimizing the performance of layered double hydroxide (LDH) electrodes by MXene is of significant importance for high-performance asymmetric supercapacitors. In this paper, CoAl-LDH nanosheet-doped s-MXene composites were prepared by a facile hydrothermal method, and two-dimensional layered microstructured CoAl-LDH/s-MXene electrode materials with excellent performance were prepared. The homogeneous growth of CoAl-LDH on s-MXene successfully hinders the agglomeration of CoAl-LDH and provides more layered channels for electron and ion transfer across the electrode material. In addition, CoAl-LDH can effectively suppress the stacking of s-MXene, which increases the electrochemical active site of the material, resulting in an increase in specific capacity. The CoAl-LDH/s-MXene electrode material has a high specific capacity of 1259.9 C g−1 at 1 A g−1, which has outstanding specific capacity and rate capability. The assembled asymmetric CoAl-LDH/s-MXene//AC supercapacitor achieves the desired energy density of 104 and 88 Wh kg−1 at 1500 and 6000 W kg−1. After 5000 laps at 10 A g−1, CoAl-LDH/s-MXene//AC has a capacitance retention rate of 86.6% and a coulomb efficiency of nearly 100%, demonstrating its splendid cycling stability. Therefore, this paper adopts a simple hydrothermal method to prepare CoAl-LDH/s-MXene active material, which provides an effective strategy for constructing supercapacitors with excellent performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is a specific complication in the middle and late pregnancy and has been recognized as one of the high‐risk pregnancy for sudden fetal death. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of Fas, Caspase‐8, and Caspase‐9 pathways in the internal relations of fetal myocardial apoptosis in ICP rat models, thus resulting in fetal intrauterine death. Furthermore, we researched whether ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) promoted benefits in fetal cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Materials and methods: To establish ICP rat models, on the 15th day of pregnancy, rats were injected 17α‐ethynyl estradiol (EE2). Meanwhile, in experimental group, pregnant rats were treated with EE2 + UDCA. All rats were sacrificed on the 21st day of pregnancy. The expression levels of Fas, Caspase‐8, and Caspase‐9 were examined by western blot and real‐time polymerase chain reaction analysis. Fetal rat cardiac tissues were removed and stained for pathological evaluation. In addition, we observed fetal myocardial structure by using transmission electron microscopy. Results: We detected high concentrations of bile acids and transaminase in the fetal circulation. And we found increased expression levels of Fas, Caspase‐8, and Caspase‐9 proteins and mRNA in the fetal cardiomyocyte in EE2‐treated group but not in control‐ or EE2 + UDCA‐treated groups. Furthermore, compared to controls, EE2‐treated rats exhibited severe fetal myocardial structure damage and the apoptotic bodies by using transmission electron microscopy. UDCA reversed the impairment of fetal cardiomyocytes. Conclusion: Our study has led to research into the association between activation of Fas, Caspase‐8, and Caspase‐9 pathways and bile acid‐induced fetal cardiomyocyte apoptosis, which may be one of the mechanisms on fetal cardiac death in ICP. More importantly, UDCA may improve the adverse outcome of fetus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A photo-enzyme nanosystem for CO 2 reduction was constructed. • In-CdS was prepared to improve its photocatalytic performance. • NADH regeneration yield of 10 %In-CdS@ZIF-8 is 94.10 %. • FDH was immobilized to produce 267.18 μM HCOOH. • 85.98% of the residual activity was retained after reusing 8 times. Replacement of fossil fuel by renewable resources is a central resource and energy efficiency strategy, where CO 2 is the key molecule to proceed effectively in this direction. Here, we synthesized In-doped CdS and constructed a new photo-enzyme nanosystem 10 %In-CdS@ZIF-8&FDH, which can catalyze CO 2 to formic acid (HCOOH) via formate dehydrogenase immobilized on ZIF-8 while photocatalytic regenerating NADH via indium-doped CdS. Indium doping greatly enhances the photocatalytic performance of CdS. The NADH regeneration rate reaches 94.10 %. The nanosystem can produce 267.18 μM HCOOH, which is 4.27 times that of the free enzyme system. And 85.98 % of the residual activity can be retained after reusing 8 times. This study will inspire more research efforts for light-driven enzymatic nanosystems in CO 2 fixation and lay the foundation for realizing renewable energy-driven CO 2 conversion to produce chemical products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the synthesis, characterization, and photophysical and ion‐binding properties of deep‐red to near‐infrared (NIR) fluorescent rhodamine derivatives, bearing two spirolactone rings and substitution of the oxygen atoms in the xanthene ring with sulfur atoms (1‐S). The diastereoisomeric cis‐ and trans‐forms of the rhodamine derivative were separated and the cis‐form (cis‐1‐S) was structurally characterized by X‐ray crystallography. Upon treatment with Hg2+ ion, cis‐1‐S was converted into the dual spirolactone ring‐opened species, resulting in significant color change and fluorescence enhancement. Substitution of the oxygen atoms with sulfur and extended π‐conjugation across the fused six‐membered rings upon the two rings‐opening processes in the presence of Hg2+ ion led to a significant red‐shift of absorption (623 nm) and fluorescence (706 nm) peaks, compared to the ordinary rhodamine. Furthermore, the intracellular Hg2+‐sensing properties of the cis‐1‐S have been studied by confocal microscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elevated IgG4 concentrations in serum have received a great deal of attention recently, whereas the significance of decreased IgG4 levels was frequently neglected in spite of its close relation with infectious and noninfectious inflammations. In this review, based on the structural and functional characteristics of IgG4, we bring together case reports and research related to low levels of IgG4 and try to scratch the importance of decreased IgG4 concentrations in serum. As with elevated IgG4 levels, low serum IgG4-related diseases can be involved in multiple systems such as infection in the respiratory system, stroke in the circulatory system, and glomerulonephritis in the urinary system. Both genetic and immune dysregulation can contribute to decreased IgG4 levels. In the light of animal experiments, we believe that the mystery of low IgG4 can be revealed as long as enough attention is acquired. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, despite the popularity of deep convolutional neural networks (CNNs), the efficient training of network models remains challenging due to several problems. In this paper, we present a layer-wise learning based stochastic gradient descent method (LLb-SGD) for gradient-based optimization of objective functions in deep learning, which is simple and computationally efficient. By simulating the cross-media propagation mechanism of light in the natural environment, we set an adaptive learning rate for each layer of neural networks. In order to find the proper local optimum quickly, the dynamic learning sequence spanning different layers adaptively adjust the descending speed of objective function in multi-scale and multi-dimensional environment. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first attempt to introduce an adaptive layer-wise learning schedule with a certain degree of convergence guarantee. Due to its generality and robustness, the method is insensitive to hyper-parameters and therefore can be applied to various network architectures and datasets. Finally, we show promising results compared to other optimization methods on two image classification benchmarks using five standard networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Cubic-shaped LiNbO 3 :Yb3+/Er3+ are synthesized by a hydrothermal method without organic additives or templates. • Yb(NO 3) 3 /Er(NO 3) 3 used as etchant increases dissolution rate of the Nb 2 O 5. • Enhanced upconversion emissions are attributed to the disappeared OH– groups. • Temperature-dependent XRD, SEM and Raman confirm crystal growth mechanism. We exploited a simple hydrothermal route without adding organic additives or hard templates to synthesize cubic-shaped LiNbO 3 :Yb3+/Er3+ with the size of 400–500 nm. Based on the time-dependent investigation on the crystal structure and morphology, Yb(NO 3) 3 and Er(NO 3) 3 not only could emit green and red upconversion (UC) emission but also could be used as an etchant to increase dissolution rate of the Nb 2 O 5 raw material in the hydrothermal synthesis route. Without addition of Yb3+/Er3+ ions, LiNbO 3 phase could not be formed at even hydrothermal time of 48 h. The time-dependent Raman spectra showed the Raman peaks of LiNbO 3 were occurred at the reaction time of 48 h, and the impurity Nb 2 O 5 phase was disappeared with lengthening hydrothermal time. After calcining at 1050 °C for 2 h, the new Raman peaks at 440/487/531/552 cm−1 and the disappeared OH– absorption peaks at 3429 and 1628 cm−1 favored to produce the bright UC emissions in LiNbO 3 :Yb3+/Er3+ nanocrystals. The pump power dependence and UC mechanism were studied under 980 nm excitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: RUNX1 overlapping RNA (RUNXOR) is a long non-coding RNA that has been indicated as a key regulator in the development of myeloid cells by targeting runt-related transcription factor 1 (RUNX1). Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are a heterogeneous population of cells consisting of immature granulocytes and monocytes with immunosuppression. However, the impact of lncRNA RUNXOR on the development of MDSCs remains unknown.Methods: Both the expressions of RUNXOR and RUNX1 in the peripheral blood were measured by qRT-PCR. Human MDSCs used in this study were isolated from tumor tissue of patients with lung cancer by FCM or induced from PBMCs of healthy donors with IL-1β + GM-CSF. Specific siRNA was used to knockdown the expression of RUNXOR in MDSCs.Results: In this study, we found that the lncRNA RUNXOR was upregulated in the peripheral blood of lung cancer patients. In addition, as a target gene of RUNXOR, the expression of RUNX1 was downregulated in lung cancer patients. Finally, the expression of RUNXOR was higher in MDSCs isolated from the tumor tissues of lung cancer patients compared with cells from adjacent tissue. In addition, RUNXOR knockdown decreased Arg1 expression in MDSCs.Conclusions: Based on our findings, it is illustrated that RUNXOR is significantly associated with the immunosuppression induced by MDSCs in lung cancer patients and may be a target of anti-tumor therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Automatic modulation classification (AMC) is an essential and indispensable topic in the development of cognitive radios. It is the cornerstone of adaptive modulation and demodulation capabilities to perceive and understand surrounding environments and make corresponding decisions. In this paper, we propose a priori regularization method in deep learning (DL-PR) for guiding loss optimization during model training process. The regularization factor designed by the combination of inter-class confrontation factor, global and dimensional divergence can help increase the inter-class distance and reduce the intra-class distance of samples. While preserving the original information of received signals as much as possible, it makes full use of the prior knowledge in the signal transmission process and ultimately helps deep learning models to be well generalized on signals with various signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs). As far as we know, this is the first attempt to regularize deep learning models based on SNR distribution of samples to improve AMC accuracy. Moreover, it can be proved that priori regularization can be interpreted as implicit data augmentation and model ensemble methods. By comparing with a series of state-of-the-art AMC methods and different regularization techniques on the public dataset RadioML 2016.10a, experimental results of multiple deep learning models illustrate the superiority of DL-PR, including CNN with accuracy of 62.6% and inference time of 0.82 ms per signal, LSTM with 61.8% and 0.87 ms, and hybrid CNN–LSTM with 64.2% and 0.94 ms. In practical applications, DL-PR can be also easily applied to complex environments due to its robustness to hyper-parameters and SNR estimation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The size and number of firms in a region represent key characteristics of that regional economic ecosystem, but few studies have linked such characteristics with the stringency of local environmental regulation. In this study, we discuss the effects of local firm scale on environmental regulation and its mechanism, and the optimal strategic choices theoretically and empirically for environmental regulation in regions with different firm scale. We find that when government capacity is insufficient, regional environmental regulation will be relatively more stringent when dealing with fewer but larger firms because of the government scale effect. When government capacity is sufficient, firm size has no influence on environmental regulation. Our results are robust and offer insights for government decision makers to improve local environmental regulation efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A three-dimensional deformable finite element model of wheel-rail system is established. The vertical vibration natural frequencies are calculated by modal analysis. The improved central difference method by ABAQUS explicit nonlinear dynamics module is chosen to calculate the vertical vibration of wheel axle. Through the vibration measurement experiment of LMA wheel by China Academy of Railway Sciences, the contact parameter is optimized and the model is modified. According to the nonlinear simulation results, the important influence of vertical track irregularity on the wheel set high-frequency vibration is discovered. The advantage frequencies through spectrum are close to the vertical vibration natural frequencies of seventh, eighth, ninth, and tenth mode. When the velocity is 350 km/h, system’s nonlinear dynamic characteristic is higher than the results at 200 km/h. The critical wavelength of vertical track irregularity on the wheel vertical vibration is about 0.8 m. In addition, a particular attention should be paid to one situation that the main dominant frequency amplitude is more than 50% of the acceleration amplitude even if the peak acceleration is low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Doping heteroatoms into polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) may alter their structures and thereby physical properties. This study reports the construction of B/N‐codoped PAHs via combining the B‐ and N‐doped π‐systems. Two π‐extended B/N‐codoped PAHs were synthesized through the Mallory photoreaction. Both feature a C48BN2 π‐skeleton, which is assembled by linearly fusing three substructures including B‐doped and sp2‐hybridized N‐doped π‐moieties and one pyrene unit. In comparison to the pristine B‐doped analog, their intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) states are distinctly modulated by the fused N‐doped π‐system and the further incorporated cyano group, leading to their tunable optical properties, as revealed by detailed theoretical and experimental analysis. Furthermore, these three molecules have sufficient Lewis acidity and can coordinate with Lewis base to form Lewis acid‐base adducts, and notably, such intermolecular complexation can further dynamically modulate their ICT transitions and thereby photophysical properties, such as producing blue, green and red fluorescence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Direct fluorination utilizing F 2 /N 2 was used for modifying carbon foam (CFSs). • Fluorinated CFSs (F-CFSs) with different F-contained phase region was fabricated. • The MA property of F-CFSs can be customized by varying F-contained phase region. • The in-depth MA loss mechanism of F-CFSs was disclosed. Towards enhancing microwave absorption (MA) performance of microwave absorbers, constructing multicomponent structure with heterogeneous interface structure are the commonly adopted strategies. Herein, we proposed a different idea to modify the MA property of carbon foam sheets (CFSs) by constructing phase region structure through direct fluorination utilizing F 2 /N 2. The fluorination of CFSs obey a phase expanding model, which starts at defect sites, and subsequently expands to neighboring aromatic benzene ring. As a result, the fluorination process experienced phase transformation from "discrete fluorine (F)-contained" phase region to "cluster F-contained" phase region and then to "expanded F-contained" phase region. With phase structure transforming, the dominated dissipation mechanism toward electromagnetic wave varied from dipole polarization to interfacial polarization, making the MA property of F-CFSs to be customized. For F-CFSs with "discrete F-contained" phase region, strong dipole polarization provided by discrete C-F bond would noticeably enhance the MA property around Ku band (RL min ∼ -66.6 dB, covering 65.3% of Ku band). By contrast, For F-CFSs with "cluster or expanded F-contained" phase region, interfacial polarization generated by countlessly atomic-level heterojunctions between fluorinated and aromatic region would improve the MA property around C band (RL min ∼ -66 dB, covering 76% of C band). Our work provided a new insight to enhance and customize microwave absorption for carbon based microwave absorbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the solvothermal method, we synthesized five compounds that have cluster structure; [Co(dien) 2 ] 2 Sn 2 Se 6 (1), [Co(dien) 2 ] 2 Sn 2 S 6 (2), [Ni(dien) 2 ] 2 Sn 2 S 6 (3) (dien=diethylenetriamine), [(Ni 0.4 Zn 0.6)(en) 6 ]Sn 2 Se 6 (4), [(Mn 1.67 Zn 0.33)(en) 6 ]Sn 2 Se 6 (5) (en=ethylenediamine). Among them, The 1 showed the excellent photocurrent density (ca. 50 μA/cm2) and 51.4 % degradation of methylene blue (MB). [Display omitted] The chalcogenidostannates [Co(dien) 2 ] 2 Sn 2 Se 6 (1), [Co(dien) 2 ] 2 Sn 2 S 6 (2), [Ni(dien) 2 ] 2 Sn 2 S 6 (3) (dien = diethylenetriamine), [(Ni 0.4 Zn 0.6)(en) 6 ]Sn 2 Se 6 (4), [(Mn 1.67 Zn 0.33)(en) 6 ]Sn 2 Se 6 (5) (en = ethylenediamine) were prepared under solvothermal conditions. 1 – 5 are isostructural and composed of the transition metal (TM) complex cations and [Sn 2 Q 6 ]4− anions. As far as we know, 4 and 5 are the first examples of two transition metals occupy the same position. TM complexes can integrate the electronic, and optical properties with the inorganic framework, which extends the properties of the TM complexes. Accordingly, the photocurrent response and photodegradation were investigated. There are impressive photocurrent densities for the compounds, especially 1 with a density of 50 μA/cm2, which is superior than most chalcogenidostannates. In this work, the degradation of methylene blue (MB) by cobalt-containing chalcogenidostannates was studied for the first time, and a degradation rate of 51.4 % was achieved by [Co(dien) 2 ] 2 Sn 2 Se 6 (1) and 41.5 % by [Co(dien) 2 ] 2 Sn 2 S 6 (2). This work provides a good prospect for the photoelectric of chalcogenides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Auxin regulates root development and is considered a potential target for improving crop yield. In this study, we identified 22 basic leucine zipper transcription factors (bZIP TFs) that responded to two concentrations (1 and 50 μM) of indole-acetic acid (IAA) during wheat root development by transcriptome analysis. In addition, we identified 176 TabZIP genes from the wheat genome. Phylogenetic classification and gene structure analysis indicated that the 22 auxin-responsive TabZIPs were divided into groups 1 to 9 (except group 3) with different functions. Phenotypic analysis showed that knocking out Arabidopsis AtHY5 , which is the homologous gene of TabZIP6D_147 (one of the downregulated auxin-responsive TabZIPs under both 1 and 50 μM IAA that belonged to group 4), resulted in insensitivity to IAA, while the phenotype of TabZIP6D_147/hy5 complementary lines recovered to that of the wild type, suggesting that downregulated TabZIP6D_147 plays a negative role in the auxin signalling pathway. These results revealed that auxin-responsive TabZIP genes may play different roles in root architecture in the response to the two concentrations of auxin. [Display omitted] • Twenty-two auxin-responsive TabZIPs were identified by transcriptome analysis. • The auxin-responsive TabZIPs played different roles under auxin treatments. • One hundred seventy-six TabZIPs were identified from wheat genome. • The downregulated TabZIP6D_147 negatively regulates root growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Significant differences in temporal sweet and bitter taste existed among six steviol glycosides. • Glucosyl groups on C-13 played a critical role in temporal sweetness sensation, while those on C-19 had more influences on bitterness. • The ratio of the number of glucosyl groups on C-13 to the one on C-19 affected the time to reach the peak of sweetness. • Chemical structures can affect dynamic profiles of sweetness and bitterness through their desorption in the oral cavity. Time-intensity (TI) dynamic sensory characterization was used to evaluate the temporal sweet and bitter perception of six commonly available steviol glycosides (Rubusoside, Stevioside, Rebaudioside C, Rebaudioside A, Rebaudioside D and Rebaudioside M). All parameters extracted from TI curves significantly varied among the six samples for both sweetness and bitterness. Compared to other compounds, Rebaudioside M and Rebaudioside D had faster onset of sweetness, quicker decay of aftertaste, and were nearly devoid of bitterness. Conversely, Rubusoside and Stevioside demonstrated an immediate distinct bitter taste and lingering aftertaste. Based on these results, a further investigation into the relationship between temporal properties and chemical structures was conducted. It was found that fewer glucosyl groups on C-19 would result in shorter time for initial stimulation and longer perception of bitterness, whereas more glucosyl groups on C-13 could trigger a faster increase and stronger intensity of sweetness. A shorter time to the peak for sweetness was obtained when the ratio of the number of glucosyl groups on C-13 to that on C-19 was lower, although there was no such effect on bitter taste. These relationships were explained by the adsorption and desorption of these compounds on the taste receptors. Higher numbers and larger sizes of substitutions at the C-19 position of steviol glycosides can increase their desorption percentages and lead to a quicker decay of sweetness. Meanwhile, compounds with fewer glucosyl groups, such as Rubusoside and Stevioside, presented lower desorption and thus longer bitter aftertaste. Overall, the addition of glucosyl groups would generate stronger sweetness and less bitterness if the substituent number on C-13 was closer to that on C-19. These findings conveyed insights into how to modify steviol glycosides to enhance their quality as sweeteners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three antimony chalcogenides containing transition metal zinc ions were successfully prepared by solvent method, namely, [Zn(tren) 2 H]SbSe 4 (1) [tren ​= ​tris (2 - aminoethyl) amine) ], [Ni(1, 2-dap) 3 ] 2 Zn(1, 2-dap)Sb 2 Se 8 (2) (1, 2 - dap ​= ​1, 2 - diaminopropane) and Rb 2 ZnSb 4 S 8 (3). Interestingly, the Zn2+ ion in compound 1 is a trigonal-bipyramidal structure, while in compounds 2 and 3 it is a tetrahedral structure. The optical and photoelectric properties of compounds 1 – 3 were studied. In addition, the magnetic of compound 2 was studied. Three antimony chalcogenides [Zn(tren) 2 H]SbSe 4 (1), [Ni(1,2-dap) 3 ] 2 Zn(1,2-dap)Sb 2 Se 8 (2) and Rb 2 ZnSb 4 S 8 (3) containing transition metal zinc ions have been reported, respectively. Due to the different coordination mode of zinc ions and S/Se atoms, the structure is completely different. [Display omitted] • Three antimony chalcogenides containing transition metal zinc ions were prepared under solvothermal conditions. • Compounds 1 – 3 have semiconductor properties. • The optical and photoelectric properties of compounds 1 – 3 were studied. In addition, the magnetic of compound 2 were studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterocyclic diradicaloids with atom‐precise control over open‐shell nature are promising materials for organic electronics and spintronics. Herein, we disclose quinoidal π‐extension of a B/N‐heterocycle for generating B/N‐type organic diradicaloids. Two quinoidal π‐extended B/N‐doped polycyclic hydrocarbons that feature fusion of the B/N‐heterocycle motif with the antiaromatic s‐indacene or dicyclopenta[b,g]naphthalene core were synthesized. This quinoidal π‐extension and B/N‐heterocycle leads to their open‐shell electronic nature, which stands in contrast to the multiple‐resonance effect of conventional B/N‐type emitters. These B/N‐type diradicaloids have modulated (anti)aromaticity and enhanced diradical characters comparing with the all‐carbon analogues, as well as intriguing properties, such as magnetic activities, narrow energy gaps and highly red‐shifted absorptions. This study thus opens the new space for both of B/N‐doped polycyclic π‐systems and heterocyclic diradicaloids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterocyclic diradicaloids with atom‐precise control over open‐shell nature are promising materials for organic electronics and spintronics. Herein, we disclose quinoidal π‐extension of a B/N‐heterocycle for generating B/N‐type organic diradicaloids. Two quinoidal π‐extended B/N‐doped polycyclic hydrocarbons that feature fusion of the B/N‐heterocycle motif with the antiaromatic s‐indacene or dicyclopenta[b,g]naphthalene core were synthesized. This quinoidal π‐extension and B/N‐heterocycle leads to their open‐shell electronic nature, which stands in contrast to the multiple‐resonance effect of conventional B/N‐type emitters. These B/N‐type diradicaloids have modulated (anti)aromaticity and enhanced diradical characters comparing with the all‐carbon analogues, as well as intriguing properties, such as magnetic activities, narrow energy gaps and highly red‐shifted absorptions. This study thus opens the new space for both of B/N‐doped polycyclic π‐systems and heterocyclic diradicaloids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rise of wearable and implantable bioelectronics necessitates stretchable electronic devices and systems to seamlessly integrate with soft biological environments. Stretchable organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs), based on conducting polymer poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) doped with polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS), have emerged as a promising candidate because of their combined high stability and high transconductance. However, a stretchable, enhancement-mode PEDOT:PSS OECT (SE-OECT) is still missing, limiting the development of complementary and low-power integration systems. In this Letter, we report SE-OECTs. The devices showed typical enhancement-mode transistor behaviors with standby power as low as 0.1 μW while maintaining stable performance after 1000 cyclic tests within 50% strain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gallium‐based liquid metal (LM) is regarded as one of the most promising candidates for the new‐generation jigsaw of stretchable electronics. Nonetheless, the obstacle for the LM application lies in its high surface tension and easy fluidity which leads to great difficulty in handling and processing. Herein, a cross‐mechanochemistry between liquid metal and inorganic solid, mediated via the coordination binding between the empty electronic orbits of the former and the lone electron pair of the latter is reported. The mechanism is validated via density functional theory calculation and electron energy loss spectroscopy, and experimentally proven to be universally applicable for various liquid metals and inorganic solids. With the unique mechanochemistry, simple ball milling allows on‐demand transformation of the liquid metal into a low‐surface‐tension liquid, semi‐solid paste, or even solid powder. The overcoming of the intrinsic high surface tension of the liquid metal with this approach unleashes the freedom to easily process the liquid metal composites into polymer composites or as direct molding processable paste and printable electronic ink. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, exciting advances have been achieved in pursuing organic thin film transistors (OTFTs) with high mobility. Whereas, the economical infeasibility of Au source/drain (S/D) electrodes that are widely used in OTFTs hinders the further development of OTFTs in industry. In this study, the modified indium tin oxide (ITO) as S/D electrodes is adopted. The ITO is modified by HCl aqueous solutions, its surface work function is improved from 4.8 to 5.5 eV. By first‐principle calculations and experiments, the charge analysis shows that the Cl atom traps 0.475 electrons, which indicates that In–Cl dipoles are responsible for the increase of the surface work function, besides the HCl modification leads to In+‐Cl− bonds instead of In3+‐Cl− bonds on the ITO surface compared with the reported InCl3 modification. More encouragingly, In+‐Cl− surface is found to have higher Cl density, higher work function and higher conductivity. TIPS‐pentacene, with suitable HOMO level of 5.2 eV, is adopted as organic semiconductor, and the bar‐coating process is optimized to realize oriented films. OTFTs with maximum field‐effect mobility of 0.77 cm2 V−1 s−1 are achieved. The ITO electrodes modified by HCl can be promising in the industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To solve the problem of controlling large deformation of surrounding rock in deep soft rock roadway, the distribution characteristics and deformation mechanism of surrounding rock cracks in soft rock roadway under different lateral pressure coefficients are studied using numerical simulation, theoretical analysis, and field measurement. The results show that under different lateral pressure coefficients, the range of surrounding rock cracks shows three forms: round, oval, and butterfly. No matter what lateral pressure coefficient the roadway is in, the surrounding rock cracks always appear in the plastic zone, and there is a high correlation between the surrounding rock crack range and the plastic zone. The stress characteristics of the surrounding rock in the plastic zone include two main aspects. One is that the direction of the principal stress of the surrounding rock is deflected, which is manifested as an annular distribution of the direction of the maximum principal stress around the roadway. The direction of the minimum principal stress in the upper part of the roadway points to the center of the roadway, and the direction of the minimum principal stress in the lower part of the roadway deviates from the center of the roadway. Second, the ratio of the maximum to minimum principal stress in the surrounding rock is large. Under this stress characteristic, the surrounding rock in the plastic zone has strong shear dilation. The shear dilation makes the crack of the surrounding rock open so that the surrounding rock is squeezed into the roadway space, and then the roadway produces large deformation. Due to the large range of cracks in the butterfly‐shaped plastic zone, the shear dilation deformation produced by the butterfly‐shaped plastic zone is far more than that of the round/oval plastic zone. According to the crack range of roadway surrounding rock under different lateral pressure coefficients, the corresponding support scheme is put forward. Field experiments show that the support scheme can effectively control the deformation of surrounding rock and meet the requirements of roadway use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we consider secure communications in a multi-cell downlink multi-antenna system, where each multi-antenna base station (BS) sends confidential messages to one intended legitimate user (LU) with a passive multi-antenna eavesdropper trying to intercept the messages in this cell. To enhance the secure communications of the cell-edge users, the multiple BSs employ coordinated beamforming with the aid of artificial-noise (AN) beamforming. We conduct a mathematically rigorous secrecy performance analysis of the considered system and obtain new accurate closed-form expressions of a lower bound on the ergodic rate of each LU and an upper bound of the ergodic rate of each eavesdropper without assuming asymptotes for any system parameter (except for the “worst-case” scenario with zero noise power). Then, a lower bound on the ergodic secrecy rate (ESR) of each LU follows. Based on the derived analytical results, we propose a low-complexity algorithm to optimize the channel sate information (CSI) feedback bits allocation for the channels of target signal link and inter-cell interference links. Furthermore, we develop explicit sufficient conditions on the set of system parameters under which there are at least two BSs to coordinated secure transmission. Through both theoretical analysis and numerical results, we can verify that the obtained analytical lower bound on ESR of each LU as a function of the set of power allocation coefficients is generally neither convex nor concave. Thus, we propose to employ some numerical method to find a sub-optimal power allocation solution. Finally, numerical results are also provided to validate our theoretical results and the proposed feedback bits and power allocation methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plenty of immune cells infiltrate into the tumor microenvironment (TME) during tumor progression, in which myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) represent a heterogeneous population of immature myeloid cells with immunosuppressive activity. Tumor cells and stromal cells facilitate the activation and expansion of MDSCs in TME via intercellular communication, and expanded MDSCs suppress anti-tumor immune responses through direct and indirect mechanisms. Currently, exosomes, which are a kind of extracellular vesicles (EVs) that can convey functional components, are demonstrated to participate in the local and distal intercellular communication between cells. Numerous studies have supposed that tumor-derived exosomes (TEXs), whose assembly and release can be modulated by TME, are capable of modulating the cell biology of MDSCs, including facilitating their activation, promoting the expansion, and enhancing the immunosuppressive function. Therefore, in this review, we mainly focus on the role of TEXs in the cell-cell communication between tumor cells and MDSCs, and discuss their clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) participate in tumor-elicited immunosuppression by dramatically blocking T-cell-induced antitumor responses, thereby influencing the effectiveness of cancer immunotherapies. Treatments that alter the differentiation and function of MDSCs can partially restore antitumor immune responses. The long noncoding RNA plasmacytoma variant translocation 1 (lncRNA Pvt1) is a potential oncogene in a variety of cancer types. However, whether lncRNA Pvt1 is involved in the regulation of MDSCs has not been thoroughly elucidated to date. Methods: MDSCs or granulocytic MDSCs (G-MDSCs) were isolated by microbeads and flow cytometry. Bone marrow derived G-MDSCs were induced by IL-6 and GM-CSF. The expression of lncRNA Pvt1 was measured by qRT-PCR. Specific siRNA was used to knockdown the expression of lncRNA Pvt1 in G-MDSCs. Results: In this study, we found that knockdown of lncRNA Pvt1 significantly inhibited the immunosuppressive function of G-MDSCs in vitro. Additionally, lncRNA Pvt1 knockdown reduced the ability of G-MDSCs to delay tumor progression in tumor-bearing mice in vivo. Notably, lncRNA Pvt1 was upregulated by HIF-1α under hypoxia in G-MDSCs. Conclusions: Taken together, our results demonstrate a critical role for lncRNA Pvt1 in regulating the immunosuppression activity of G-MDSCs, and lncRNA Pvt1 might thus be a potential antitumor immunotherapy target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strigolactone (SL), a novel plant hormone, plays a vital role in promoting leaf senescence. Sugar, a nutrient source widely used to retain freshness of cut flowers, was recently reported to alleviate SL-induced leaf senescence; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Leaf senescence during transportation and storage of cut chrysanthemum considerably affects its shelf life and ornamental value. In this study, we found that sucrose antagonizes SL-induced leaf senescence in chrysanthemum. Transcriptional reprogramming analysis revealed a number of differentially expressed genes antagonistically regulated by SL and sucrose, mainly including those related to SL signaling, sugar signaling, ethylene, auxin, jasmonic acid, reactive oxygen species, chlorophyll metabolism pathways, and transcription factors (such as WRKY , NAC , AP2/ERF , and MYB). Virus-based transient silencing of CmWRKY6-Like in chrysanthemum revealed that CmWRKY6-Like positively regulates leaf senescence and involves the antagonistic regulation of leaf senescence by SL and sucrose. This study provides a basis for understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the antagonistic roles of SL- and sugar-mediated leaf senescence in chrysanthemum. • Sucrose antagonizes SL-induced leaf senescence in chrysanthemum. • Various genes antagonistically regulated by SL and sucrose were revealed by RNA-seq. • CmWRKY6-Like positively regulates leaf senescence in chrysanthemum. • CmWRKY6-Like involves the antagonistic regulation of leaf senescence by SL and sugar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Robust monocular depth estimation (MDE) aims at learning a unified model that works across diverse real-world scenes, which is an important and active topic in computer vision. In this paper, we present Megatron_RVC, our winning solution for the monocular depth challenge in the Robust Vision Challenge (RVC) 2022, where we tackle the challenging problem from three perspectives: network architecture, training strategy and dataset. In particular, we made three contributions towards robust MDE: (1) we built a neural network with high capacity to enable flexible and accurate monocular depth predictions, which contains dedicated components to provide content-aware embeddings and to improve the richness of the details; (2) we proposed a novel mixing training strategy to handle real-world images with different aspect ratios, resolutions and apply tailored loss functions based on the properties of their depth maps; (3) to train a unified network model that covers diverse real-world scenes, we used over 1 million images from different datasets. As of 3rd October 2022, our unified model ranked consistently first across three benchmarks (KITTI, MPI Sintel, and VIPER) among all participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Impaired intestinal mucosal integrity during colitis involves the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ), an important anti-inflammatory factor in intestinal mucosa homoeostasis, which is a potential target in colitis. Recurrent chronic pain is a vital pathogenetic feature of colitis. Nevertheless, potential functions of PPARγ in the colitis-associated hyperalgesia remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate biological roles of pioglitazone in relieving colitis-associated pain hypersensitivity by a PPARγ tight junction protein-dependent mechanism during the course of dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced intestinal inflammation. The DSS-induced colitis model was generated in C57BL/6 mice. Changes in colitis induced the injury of intestinal mucosal barrier and hyperalgesia after a 6-day treatment of pioglitazone (25 mg/kg, IP injection) were assessed through immunofluorescent, hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, western blot analysis, and determination of paw withdrawal mechanical threshold. A significant reduction of paw withdrawal mechanical threshold occurred after DSS treatment. Follow-up data showed that systematic administration of PPARγ agonist pioglitazone ameliorated the DSS-induced colitis and the development of colitis-associated hyperalgesia by repairing the intestinal mucosal barrier. The tight junction proteins ZO-1 and Claudin-5 were upregulated by PPARγ signaling, which in turn promoted the improvement of intestinal barrier function. Moreover, pioglitazone inhibited phosphorylation of ERK and NF-κB in the colon and decreased the levels of inflammatory cytokines in both colon spine tissues. Furthermore, systemically pioglitazone treatment inhibited the activation of microglia and astrocytes, as well as DSS-induced phosphorylation of NR2B subunit in spinal cord, which was correspondingly consistent with the pain behavior. Pioglitazone ameliorates DSS-induced colitis and attenuates colitis-associated mechanical hyperalgesia, with improving integrity of the intestinal mucosal barrier by directly upregulating tight junction proteins. The PPARγ-tight junction protein signaling might be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of colitis-associated chronic pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, deep learning has achieved remarkable results in many computer vision related tasks, among which the support of big data is essential. In this paper, we propose a full stage data augmentation framework to improve the accuracy of deep convolutional neural networks, which can also play the role of implicit model ensemble without introducing additional model training costs. Simultaneous data augmentation during training and testing stages can ensure network optimization and enhance its generalization ability. Augmentation in two stages needs to be consistent to ensure the accurate transfer of specific domain information. Furthermore, this framework is universal for any network architecture and data augmentation strategy and therefore can be applied to a variety of deep learning based tasks. Finally, experimental results about image classification on the coarse-grained dataset CIFAR-10 (93.41%) and fine-grained dataset CIFAR-100 (70.22%) demonstrate the effectiveness of the framework by comparing with state-of-the-art results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aerospace represents the development of national science and technology. It is an important foundation for exploring space and an important guarantee for the construction of aerospace power. There are many large workpieces in the aerospace field. The box insulation layer of large workpieces is an important processing problem. A new thick processing equipment is proposed to process the box insulation layer of large workpieces. The thick processing equipment consists of the XYZ shaft long guide rail and five degrees of freedom (5-DOF) RAPA. The mechanical structure of the 5-DOF RAPA is a redundantly actuated parallel mechanism (RAPM). Meanwhile, this paper proposes a new method to design 5-DOF redundantly actuated parallel mechanisms (RAPMs) with large output rotational angles. Based on configuration evolution and Li group, two articulated moving platforms (AMPs) and four kinds of limbs are designed, and a series of 3T2R (T represents translation, R represents rotation) RAPMs and 2T3R RAPMs are synthesized. To verify the designed RAPMs with large angle, an example of RAPMs, 4UPS-{2UPR}-R is analyzed. To ensure that the RAPM has no mechanism vibration impact in movement, this paper represents the RAPM adopts a newly proposed trajectory planning method. The results show that the 4SPU-(2UPR)R mechanism possesses large angles and verifies the efficiency of the new proposed trajectory planning method in simplified trajectories. This work lays the foundation for processing the box insulation layer of large workpieces with straight lines and arcs paths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saponins are extracted from different parts of plants such as seeds, roots, stems, and leaves and have a variety of biological activities including immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory effects, and hypoglycemic properties. They demonstrate inherent low immunogenicity and possess the capacity to effectively regulate both the innate and adaptive immune responses. Plant saponins can promote the growth and development of the body's immune organs through a variety of signaling pathways, regulate the activity of a variety of immune cells, and increase the secretion of immune-related cytokines and antigen-specific antibodies, thereby exerting the role of immune activity. However, the chemical structure of plant saponins determines its certain hemolytic and cytotoxicity. With the development of science and technology, these disadvantages can be avoided or reduced by certain technical means. In recent years, there has been a significant surge in interest surrounding the investigation of plant saponins as immunomodulators. Consequently, the objective of this review is to thoroughly examine the immunomodulatory properties of plant saponins and elucidate their potential mechanisms, with the intention of offering a valuable point of reference for subsequent research and advancement within this domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]