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The notion of stability margin (SM) plays an important role in control engineering. For multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) systems, the classic SM is no longer applicable. The one‐loop‐at‐a‐time analysis method may lead to unreliable SMs. Although some robust SM analysis methods are popular in MIMO systems, they are model‐based or not easy‐to‐use in engineering sometimes. In this paper, ℒ2$$ {\mathcal{L}}_2 $$ gain margin and ℒ2$$ {\mathcal{L}}_2 $$ time‐delay margin are defined for linear MIMO systems, and a corresponding SM analysis method is proposed by utilizing a loop transformation and the small‐gain theorem. Most importantly, a data‐driven method for measuring the defined SMs is also presented. As a frequency‐domain method, this method can be used to experimentally obtain the SMs of MIMO systems on model‐free occasions. The proposed SM analysis method and measurement method are simple and practical. Two simulation studies and an experimental test are performed to illustrate the effectiveness and practicability of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic fluorescent materials with red/near‐infrared (NIR) emission are highly promising for use in biotechnology due to their exceptional advantages. However, traditional red/NIR fluorophores often exhibit weak emission at high concentrations or in an aggregated state due to the aggregate‐caused quenching effect, which severely limits their applicability in biological imaging. To address this challenge, we developed a series of cyanostyrene derivatives with aggregation‐induced emission characteristics, including 2,3‐Bis‐(4‐styryl‐phenyl)‐but‐2‐enedinitrile (DPB), 2,3‐Bis‐{4‐[2‐(4‐methoxy‐ phenyl)‐vinyl]‐phenyl}‐but‐2‐enedinitrile (DOB), 2,3‐Bis‐{4‐[2‐(4‐diphenylamino‐ phenyl)‐vinyl]‐phenyl}‐but‐2‐enedinitrile (DTB), and 2,3‐Bis‐[4‐(2‐{4‐[phenyl‐ (4‐triphenylvinyl‐phenyl)‐amino]‐phenyl}‐vinyl)‐ phenyl]‐but‐2‐enedinitrile (DTTB). Notably, these compounds exhibited intense solid state fluorescence owing to AIE effect, especially DTTB shows NIR emission with high solid state quantum efficiency (712 nm, ΦF=14.2 %). Then we prepared DTTB@PS‐PEG NPs nanoparticles by encapsulating DTTB with the amphiphilic polymer polystyrene‐polyethylene glycol (PS‐PEG). Importantly, DTTB@PS‐PEG NPs exhibited highly efficient NIR luminescence (ΦF=28.7 %) and a large two‐photon absorption cross‐section (1900 GM) under 800 nm laser excitation. The bright two‐photon fluorescence of DTTB@PS‐PEG indicated that it can be a highly promising candidate for two‐photon fluorescence probe. Therefore, this work provides valuable insights for the design of highly efficient and NIR‐emitting two‐photon fluorescent probes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To show that electroacupuncture stimulation (ES) remodels sympathetic innervation in brown adipose tissue (BAT) via the bone morphogenic protein 8B (BMP8B)‐neuregulin 4 (NRG4)‐ErbB4 axis, with somatotopic dependence. Materials and methods: We established a high‐fat diet (HFD) model with C57BL/6J mice to measure the thermogenesis and metabolism of BAT. In addition, the sympathetic nerve activity (SNA) was measured with the electrophysiological technique, and the immunostaining of c‐Fos was used to detect the central nervous system sources of sympathetic outflows. Finally, the key role of the BMP8B‐NRG4‐ErbB4 axis was verified by peripheral specific antagonism of ErbB4. Results: ES at the forelimb and abdomen regions significantly up‐regulate SNA, whereas ES at the hindlimb region has a limited regulatory effect on SNA but still partially restores HFD‐induced BAT dysfunction. Mechanistically, ES at the forelimb and abdomen regions driving catecholaminergic signals in brown adipocytes depends on neural activities projected from the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus (VMH) to the spinal cord intermediolateral column (IML). Notably, the peripheral suppression of ErbB4 in BAT inhibits the thermogenesis and metabolic function of BAT, as well as significantly hindering the SNA activation and metabolic benefits induced by ES. Conclusion: These results suggest that ES appears to be an effective approach for remodeling sympathetic innervation in BAT, which is closely related to neuronal activity in the VMH and the NRG4‐ErbB4 signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The effect of black and green tea extracts with different alkali induction degrees on gel properties of alkali‐induced egg white gels (EWGs) was evaluated. Results indicate that, with the increase in alkali induction time, the concentration of soluble polyphenols gradually decreases while their relative polymerisation degree increases, especially for black tea polyphenols. The addition of tea extracts, especially induced by alkaline treatment for 6, 12, and 24 h, can promote the coagulation and browning and inhibit the 'alkali injury liquefaction' of alkali‐induced EWGs. Additionally, under alkali‐induced conditions, polyphenols in tea, especially black tea, can enhance the textural properties and thermal stability of alkali‐induced EWGs, this enhancement reaches its peak at 12 h of alkali induction and is consistent with protein secondary structure and interaction forces results. This research provides theoretical support for selection and induction of tea in high‐gel‐strength preserved eggs and other alkali‐induced protein gel food processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: As the nonlinearities of many real physical controlled systems become stronger and stronger, they are difficult to be described by accurate mathematical models. For a class of nonlinear single‐input single‐output systems with all‐state constraints and actuator faults, an event‐triggered adaptive fuzzy ABLF function fixed‐time tracking control method is proposed. The asymmetric barrier Lyapunov function (ABLF) combined with backward step technique is used to ensure the boundedness of the closed‐loop system output. In order to solve the problem of limited bandwidth resources, this paper adopts the event trigger mechanism and fuzzy control technology to approximate the unknown function to ensure the convergence of the system in a fixed time. After theoretical analysis, it is proved that the tracking error of the system converges in the small neighborhood of the origin, and it still has good tracking performance when the actuator faults. Finally, by comparing the proposed method with the asymmetric barrier Lyapunov function, which verifies the effectiveness of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the development of electrolyte additives as an effective strategy to improve the performance of zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs), most researchers focus on the functional groups but overlook the crucial molecular configuration. Herein, six stereoisomers of 2,3,4,5‐tetrahydroxyvaleraldehyde with identical groups but various spatial arrangements are studied as the electrolyte additive in ZIBs. Based on the experimental analysis and theoretical calculations, the adsorption with Zn (002) plane is found to be an important dominant for the stereoisomer to enhance the Zn anode performance. Among these stereoisomers, D‐Arabinose with preferential and strongest chemisorption effect modifies the anode/electrolyte interface most effectively, leading to the highest stability and reversibility of the Zn anode. The adsorbed D‐Arabinose shows multifunctional effects at the interface, which not only regulates the Zn2+ solvation structure and reconfigures the hydrogen bond framework, but also facilitates uniform Zn2+ deposition by promoting 3D Zn2+ diffusion and homogenizing the electric field. Therefore, with the D‐Arabinose additive in ZnSO4 electrolyte, the undesired Zn dendrite growth and side reactions including hydrogen evolution reaction, corrosion, and passivation are significantly limited during the Zn plating/stripping processes. This work proposes a new insight toward the optimal molecular configuration of additive designing for electrolyte engineering in stable ZIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A solar home system (SHS), containing three independent parts, namely a load voltage dc–dc converter, an energy storage device (ESD) charger, and an ESD equalizer, will become bulky and costly. Thus, based on Cuk converter, an integrated charging equalizing converter (ICEC) is proposed. The ICEC can achieve load voltage converting, battery/supercapacitor (SC) charging, and equalizing simultaneously. The idea of the ICEC is using a voltage multiplier (VM) to replace the capacitor in Cuk convertor, and then reusing the VM as a charging equalizer. When the Cuk converter is operating, the voltage ripple generated on the VM, which can be regarded as an ac voltage source, is utilized to drive the VM. Therefore, compared with the traditional methods, the charging and equalizing can be achieved without extra switches and magnetic elements. A prototype for four SCs is built to verify the feasibility of the proposed method. And the system efficiency is 87%, corresponding to the input power 5.6 W, the load output power 3.54 W, and the charging balance power 1.33 W. Moreover, a quantitative comparison shows the proposed method can reduce the system size and cost effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To accurately and timely evaluate the long‐term performance of cables in cable‐stayed bridges, an automatic perception technology scheme by on‐line monitoring of cable vibrations is proposed for the fatigue damage evaluation of in‐service cables. In the fatigue‐stress amplitude of cables, the stress produced by tension changes caused by external actions like traffic, wind, and temperature is the main component. When cables vibrate significantly, the stress caused by changes in cable vibration‐induced additional stress should not be neglected. Besides axial stress, bending stress is also significant in cable fatigue damage analysis. To make cable fatigue life prediction closer to real engineering scenarios, this factor should be considered. First, based on the cable dynamic stiffness theory, a method is proposed for the automatic gathering of the actual full‐stress time history of a cable by on‐line vibration monitoring. Furthermore, based on Miner's linear fatigue damage accumulation theory, an automatic fatigue life assessment method is proposed and applied to the vibration monitoring data of cables on an operational bridge. The results indicate that the proposed technology realizes automatic on‐line monitoring of cable forces and fatigue assessment of cables. Through statistical analysis of cable fatigue stress amplitude, it was determined that in cable‐stayed bridges, compared to long cables, short cables are more sensitive to external variable loads, typically experiencing larger and more frequent tension changes, and are more prone to fatigue. Therefore, short cables should be given more attention when analyzing cable fatigue in cable‐stayed bridges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aim: Head and neck nuclear protein of testis carcinoma (HN‐NUT) is a rare form of carcinoma diagnosed by NUT immunohistochemistry positivity and/or NUTM1 translocation. Although the prototype of HN‐NUT is a primitive undifferentiated round cell tumour (URC) with immunopositivity for squamous markers, it is our observation that it may assume variant histology or immunoprofile. Methods: We conducted a detailed clinicopathological review of a large retrospective cohort of 30 HN‐NUT, aiming to expand its histological and immunohistochemical spectrum. Results: The median age of patients with HN‐NUT was 39 years (range = 17–86). It affected the sinonasal tract (43%), major salivary glands (20%), thyroid (13%), oral cavity (7%), larynx (7%), neck (7%) and nasopharynx (3%). Although most cases of HN‐NUT (63%) contained a component of primitive URC tumour, 53% showed other histological features and 37% lacked a URC component altogether. Variant histological features included basaloid (33%), differentiated squamous/squamoid (37%), clear cell changes (13%), glandular differentiation (7%) and papillary architecture (10%), which could co‐exist. While most HN‐NUT were positive for keratins, p63 and p40, occasional cases (5–9%) were entirely negative. Immunopositivity for neuroendocrine markers and thyroid transcription factor‐1 was observed in 33 and 36% of cases, respectively. The outcome of HN‐NUT was dismal, with a 3‐year disease specific survival of 38%. Conclusions: HN‐NUT can affect individuals across a wide age range and arise from various head and neck sites. It exhibits a diverse spectrum of histological features and may be positive for neuroendocrine markers, potentially leading to underdiagnosis. A low threshold to perform NUT‐specific tests is necessary to accurately diagnose HN‐NUT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper is to carry out parameter design and dynamic stability verification experiment of controllable damping ferrofluid bearing. A new type of ferrofluid bearings is designed, and its internal magnetic fields are simulated by the finite element analysis software ANSYS. In this paper, the coefficient of magnetic leakage is taken as the optimization object, and the optimal parameters of ferrofluid bearings are updated. At the same time, the working principle of the ferrofluid bearings test platform is introduced, which includes a servomotor with a controller, an eddy displace sensor, an amplifier and a power supply. Finally, the dynamic stability of ferrofluid bearing is verified by experiments. The experimental results show that when the applied current is less than or equal to 0.08 A, the amplitude of the rotor supported by the ferrofluid bearing decreases with the applied current increment. Besides, the dynamic stability of the rotor is also related to the rotational speed. When the applied current is 0.08 A, the amplitude of the rotor supported by the ferrofluid bearing firstly increases and then decreases with the rotational speed increment. It is proved that the ferrofluid bearings have a strong function of the dynamic stability, which can suppress the vibration of the rotor, and have high accuracy of both position and rotation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extensive experimental research and hydrodynamic models have been proposed to guide the design of superior packings. However, most research has concentrated on the effective void (ε − H) of packing while ignoring the ineffective void (ε − H − HL), which causes discrepancies in hydrodynamic performance compared to actual observations. This study evaluated the hydrodynamic performance under diverse conditions considering the liquid holdup (H), pressure drop (ΔP), and gas flooding velocity (uf). A novel approach to hydrodynamic model construction is introduced by incorporating an ineffective void. The results indicate that at a constant hold‐up area, liquid flow (L) and viscosity (μ) significantly influence liquid hold up, moderated by the gas velocity in the flooding area. The pressure drop rises as the viscosity, gas flow rate, and liquid flow rate increase. Notably, a considerable pressure drop initiates flooding at the bottom of the absorber. Elevated liquid flow rates and viscosities correlate with higher ineffective void values (HL) in the packing column. At low gas flow rates, the gas flow rate marginally affects HL values. However, after the flooding point was achieved, the values of HL rapidly increased as the gas flow rate increased. Moreover, a linear relationship emerges between the liquid holdup and HL, as evidenced by the consistent variation in the liquid holdup and the F‐factor. Utilizing the ineffective void yields a more accurate fit for the experimental data, reducing the average absolute relative deviation to 10.2%, 7.4%, and 10.8%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we investigated whether the ability of aucubin to mitigate the pathology of GONFH involves suppression of TLR4/NF‐κB signalling and promotion of macrophage polarization to an M2 phenotype. In necrotic bone tissues from GONFH patients, we compared levels of pro‐inflammatory M1 macrophages and anti‐inflammatory M2 macrophages as well as levels of TLR4/NF‐κB signalling. In a rat model of GONFH, we examined the effects of aucubin on these parameters. We further explored its mechanism of action in a cell culture model of M1 macrophages. Necrotic bone tissues from GONFH patients contained a significantly increased macrophage M1/M2 ratio, and higher levels of TLR4, MYD88 and NF‐κB p65 than bone tissues from patients with hip osteoarthritis. Treating GONFH rats with aucubin mitigated bone necrosis and demineralization as well as destruction of trabecular bone and marrow in a dose‐dependent manner, based on micro‐computed tomography. These therapeutic effects were associated with a decrease in the overall number of macrophages, decrease in the proportion of M1 macrophages, increase in the proportion of M2 macrophages, and downregulation of TLR4, MYD88 and NF‐κB p65. These effects in vivo were confirmed by treating cultures of M1 macrophage‐like cells with aucubin. Aucubin mitigates bone pathology in GONFH by suppressing TLR4/NF‐κB signalling to shift macrophages from a pro‐ to anti‐inflammatory phenotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zn metal is a promising anode material in aqueous batteries, but the direct use of Zn foil encounters severe issues of dendrite formation and side reactions, causing short cycle life. Conventional thick and rigid insulating protection layers may impede Zn ion diffusion and detach during mechanical deformation of the battery. Herein, a dendrite‐free zinc anode is demonstrated by grafting a thin (≈10 nm) Ti3C2Tx MXene functional membrane which is formed via Marangoni‐driven self‐assembly. The thin MXene membrane initiates uniform nucleation and promotes deposition of (002)‐oriented Zn in a lateral growth mode. Meanwhile, the membrane functions as a soft, stress‐adaptive, and protective layer to the underneath active zinc. This functional membrane renders Zn anode with improved cycling stability without notable dendrite formation or side‐reaction products. Flexible Zn─I2 pouch cells fabricated from the MXene‐covered Zn foil (20 µm thick) anode and a modified ZnI2 cathode demonstrate stable capacity up to 1500 cycles and unchanged voltage upon various mechanical deformations. This work affords new insights into designing functional soft membranes for constructing flexible Zn‐based energy devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MXenes are emerging rapidly as promising electrode materials for energy storage due to their high electronic conductivity and rich surface chemistry, but their potassium storage performance is unsatisfactory because of the large size of K+ and irreversible interfacial reaction. Here, a developed 3D foam‐like MXene scaffold (3D‐FMS) is constructed via an electrostatic neutralization of Ti3C2Tx with positive‐charged melamine followed with calcination, which offers massive surface‐active sites and facilitates fast K+ transfer for boosting the potassium‐ion storage capacity and dynamics. In addition, using KFSI‐based electrolyte, the formation of a robust solid electrolyte interface layer with more inorganic components on MXene anode is revealed for enhancing the Coulombic efficiency. Consequently, the 3D‐FMS with KFSI‐based electrolyte delivers enhanced potassium‐ion storage performance in terms of capacity (161.4 mAh g−1 at 30 mA g−1), rate capability (70 mAh g−1 at 2 A g−1), and cycling stability (80.5 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1 after 2000 cycles). Moreover, the assembled 3D‐FMS//activated carbon potassium‐ion hybrid supercapacitor delivers a high energy density of 57 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 290 W kg−1. These excellent performances demonstrate the great superiority of 3D‐FMS in KFSI‐based electrolyte and may accelerate the development of MXene‐based materials for potassium storage systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excessive exposure to manganese (Mn) through drinking water and food during pregnancy significantly heightens the likelihood of neurodevelopmental damage in offspring. Multiple studies have indicated that melatonin (Mel) may help to relieve neurodevelopmental disorders caused by Mn, but potential mechanisms underlying this effect require further exploration. Here, we utilized primary neural stem cells (NSCs) as a model to elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying the protective function of Mel on Mn‐induced cell proliferation dysfunction and cycle arrest. Our results showed that Mn disrupted the cell cycle in NSCs by suppressing positive regulatory proteins (CDK2, Cyclin A, Cyclin D1, and E2F1) and enhancing negative ones (p27KIP1 and p57KIP2), leading to cell proliferation dysfunction. Mel inhibited the Mn‐dependent changes to these proteins and the cell cycle through nuclear receptor‐related protein 1 (Nurr1), thus alleviating the proliferation dysfunction. Knockdown of Nurr1 using lentivirus‐expressed shRNA in NSCs resulted in a diminished protective effect of Mel. We concluded that Mel mitigated Mn‐induced proliferation dysfunction and cycle arrest in NSCs through Nurr1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the impact of long‐term opioid exposure on the embryonic brain is critical due to the surging number of pregnant mothers with opioid dependency. However, this has been limited by human brain inaccessibility and cross‐species differences in animal models. Here, a human midbrain model is established that uses hiPSC‐derived midbrain organoids to assess cell‐type‐specific responses to acute and chronic fentanyl treatment and fentanyl withdrawal. Single‐cell mRNA sequencing of 25,510 cells from organoids in different treatment groups reveals that chronic fentanyl treatment arrests neuronal subtype specification during early midbrain development and alters synaptic activity and neuron projection. In contrast, acute fentanyl treatment increases dopamine release but does not significantly alter gene expression related to cell lineage development. These results provide the first examination of the effects of opioid exposure on human midbrain development at the single‐cell level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recursive integral terminal sliding mode control with combined extended state observer (ESO) and adaptive Kalman filter (AKF) is proposed in this article for micromechanical system gyroscopes. To accurately estimate the unmeasured system states in the presence of measurement noises, external disturbances and system uncertainties, the special combination of ESO and AKF is proposed. The AKF is employed to deal with measurement noises and prepare necessary signals for the ESO, while the ESO constantly provides the updated estimate of the lumped disturbance for the AKF. Furthermore, a robust control scheme is designed by using the recursive integral terminal sliding mode variable. Simulation results verify that more accurate unmeasured state estimation and higher tracking accuracy are achieved under the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) is an intriguing photophysical phenomenon, where specific materials exhibit a remarkable surge in luminescence when brought together in non‐ideal solvents or within a solid matrix. Since the concept of AIE was first introduced in 2001, numerous advanced applications have been gradually explored across various domains, including optics, electronics, energy, and the life sciences. Of particular note is the growing interest in the application of AIE systems with near‐infrared (NIR) emissive feature in the field of biomedicine, encompassing detection, imaging, and therapeutic interventions. Notably, bibliometric analysis serves as a valuable tool to provide researchers with a comprehensive understanding of research achievements and developmental trends in specific fields, which is crucial for academic research. Herein, we present a general bibliometric overview spanning two decades of NIR‐AIE development. With the assistance of core scientific databases and various bibliometric software tools, we conducted a systematic analysis of annual publications and citations, the most influential countries/regions, leading authors, journals, and institutions, as well as the hot topics related to NIR applications and forward‐looking predictions. Furthermore, the application of AIE with NIR properties in the biomedical field is also systematically reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new technique known as dough crumb–sheet composite rolling (DC–SCR) was used to improve the quality of fresh noodles. However, there is a dearth of theoretical investigations into the optimal selection of specific parameters for this technology, and the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Therefore, the effects of dough crumb addition times in DC–SCR on the texture, cooking, and eating quality of fresh noodles were first studied. Then, the underlying regulation mechanism of DC–SCR technology on fresh noodles was analyzed in terms of moisture distribution and microstructure. The study demonstrated that the most significant enhancement in the quality of fresh noodles was achieved by adding dough crumbs six times. Compared with fresh noodles made without the addition of dough crumbs, the initial hardness and chewiness of fresh noodles made by adding six times of dough crumbs increased by 25.32% and 46.82%, respectively. In contrast, the cooking time and cooking loss were reduced by 28.45% and 29.69%, respectively. This quality improvement in fresh noodles made by DC–SCR came from the microstructural differences of the gluten network between the inner and outer layers of the dough sheet. A dense structure on the outside and a loose structure on the inside could endow the fresh noodles made by DC–SCR with higher hardness, a shortened cooking time, and less cooking loss. This study would provide a theoretical and experimental basis for creating high‐quality fresh noodles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Papillary thyroid carcinoma, tall cell subtype (PTC‐TC) is a potentially aggressive histotype. The latest World Health Organisation (WHO) classification introduced a novel class of tumours; namely, high‐grade differentiated thyroid carcinoma (HGDTC), characterised by elevated mitotic count and/or necrosis, which can exhibit a tall cell phenotype (HGDTC‐TC). Methods and results: We analysed the clinical outcomes in a large retrospective cohort of 1456 consecutive thyroid carcinomas with a tall cell phenotype, including PTC‐TC and HGDTC‐TC. HGDTC‐TC is uncommon, accounting for 5.3% (77 of 1379) of carcinomas with tall cell morphology. HGDTC‐TC was associated with significantly older age, larger tumour size, angioinvasion, gross extrathyroidal extension, higher AJCC pT stage, positive resection margin and nodal metastasis (P < 0.05). Compared with PTC‐TC, HGDTC was associated with a significantly decreased DSS, LRDFS and distant metastasis‐free survival (DMFS; P < 0.001). The 10‐year DSS was 72 and 99%, the 10‐year LRDFS was 61 and 92% and the 10‐year DMFS was 53 and 97%, respectively, for HGDTC‐TC and PTC‐TC. On multivariate analysis, the classification (HGDTC‐TC versus PTC‐TC) was an independent adverse prognostic factor for DSS, LRDF, and DMFS when adjusted for sex, age, angioinvasion, margin status, AJCC pT and pN stage. Conclusions: Compared with PTC‐TC, HGDTC‐TC is associated with adverse clinicopathological features, a higher frequency of TERT promoter mutations (59% in HGDTC‐TC versus 34% in PTC‐TC) and incurs a significantly worse prognosis. HGDTC‐TC is an independent prognostic factor for carcinoma with tall cell morphology. This validates the concept of HGDTC and the importance of tumour necrosis and high mitotic count for accurate diagnosis and prognosis of differentiated thyroid carcinomas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Recently, there have been attempts to improve prognostication and therefore better guide treatment for patients with medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). In 2022, the International MTC Grading System (IMTCGS) was developed and validated using a multi‐institutional cohort of 327 patients. The aim of the current study was to build upon the findings of the IMTCGS to develop and validate a prognostic nomogram to predict recurrence‐free survival (RFS) in MTC. Methods and Results: Data from 300 patients with MTC from five centres across the USA, Europe, and Australia were used to develop a prognostic nomogram that included the following variables: age, sex, AJCC stage, tumour size, mitotic count, necrosis, Ki67 index, lymphovascular invasion, microscopic extrathyroidal extension, and margin status. A process of 10‐fold cross‐validation was used to optimize the model's performance. To assess discrimination and calibration, the area‐under‐the‐curve (AUC) of a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, concordance‐index (C‐index), and dissimilarity index (D‐index) were calculated. Finally, the model was externally validated using a separate cohort of 87 MTC patients. The model demonstrated very strong performance, with an AUC of 0.94, a C‐index of 0.876, and a D‐index of 19.06. When applied to the external validation cohort, the model had an AUC of 0.9. Conclusions: Using well‐established clinicopathological prognostic variables, we developed and externally validated a robust multivariate prediction model for RFS in patients with resected MTC. The model demonstrates excellent predictive capability and may help guide decisions on patient management. The nomogram is freely available online at https://nomograms.shinyapps.io/MTC_ML_DFS/. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Noodles are a popular staple food for many Asian populations. This study aimed to explore the effects of different resting temperatures (15, 25, 35, 45 °C) and humidity (65%, 75%, 85%, 95%) on the quality of long‐life noodles (LL noodles) by considering the moisture migration and microstructure of gluten network in dough sheets. According to results, at resting conditions (25 °C and 95% relative humidity), the dough sheet exhibited a shorter transverse relaxation time of tightly bound water (T21) and higher relative content (A21), which facilitated a tight combination between other components and water molecules. Additionally, a dense and uniform distribution of gluten network was achieved at 25 °C and 95%, due to a reduction in average length and width of gluten network lines, as well as to increased branching rate. Therefore, LL noodles were endowed with a lower cooking loss rate and higher water absorption rate, and the texture properties including chewiness, hardness, smoothness and elasticity were at optimal level. The present work demonstrated the possibility of using a resting at 25 °C and 95% humidity to enhance the uniformity of gluten network and texture of dough sheets and significantly improved the texture properties of LL noodles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The morphological variation in Schizothorax oconnori, Schizothorax waltoni, and their natural hybrids was examined using conventional and image‐based analysis approaches. In total, 38 specimens of S. oconnori, 35 of S. waltoni, and 37 natural hybrids were collected from the Shigatse to the Lhasa section of the Yarlung Zangbo River during June and July 2021. A total of 21 morphometric, 4 meristic, and 27 truss variables were employed for the classification of S. oconnori, S. waltoni, and natural hybrids. Principal component analysis (PCA) and factor analysis (FA), as well as discriminant function analysis (DFA) and cluster analysis (CA), were conducted to identify differences based on traditional and truss measurements. Four principal components explained 75.92% of the variation among the morphometric characters, while five principal components accounted for 79.69% of the variation among the truss distances. FA results showed that factor 1 was associated with head shape, and factor 2 was associated with fins based on morphometric characters. Among the truss characters, factor 1 was related to head shape, and factor 2 was related to chest shape. In DFA, morphometric measurements achieved higher accuracy (100%) compared to truss distances (94.55%). The head morphology of hybrids exhibited intermediate traits between S. oconnori and S. waltoni. Both morphometry‐based and truss‐based clustering indicated that the morphology of natural hybrids leaned toward S. oconnori. In conclusion, the combination of morphometric and truss analysis is beneficial for classifying S. oconnori, S. waltoni, and their natural hybrids. The presence of natural hybrids could be considered an evolutionary response to the differentiation of nutritional and spatial niches in the middle Yarlung Zangbo River. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temozolomide (TMZ) represents the cornerstone of therapy for glioblastoma (GBM). However, acquisition of resistance limits its therapeutic potential. The human kinome is an undisputable source of druggable targets, still, current knowledge remains confined to a limited fraction of it, with a multitude of under‐investigated proteins yet to be characterized. Here, following a kinome‐wide RNAi screen, pantothenate kinase 4 (PANK4) isuncovered as a modulator of TMZ resistance in GBM. Validation of PANK4 across various TMZ‐resistant GBM cell models, patient‐derived GBM cell lines, tissue samples, as well as in vivo studies, corroborates the potential translational significance of these findings. Moreover, PANK4 expression is induced during TMZ treatment, and its expression is associated with a worse clinical outcome. Furthermore, a Tandem Mass Tag (TMT)‐based quantitative proteomic approach, reveals that PANK4 abrogation leads to a significant downregulation of a host of proteins with central roles in cellular detoxification and cellular response to oxidative stress. More specifically, as cells undergo genotoxic stress during TMZ exposure, PANK4 depletion represents a crucial event that can lead to accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and subsequent cell death. Collectively, a previously unreported role for PANK4 in mediating therapeutic resistance to TMZ in GBM is unveiled. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: The biogenesis and differentiation (B&D) of amyloplasts contributes to fruit flavor and color. Here, remodeling of starch granules, thylakoids and plastoglobules was observed during development and ripening in two kiwifruit (Actinidia spp.) cultivars – yellow‐fleshed 'Hort16A' and green‐fleshed 'Hayward'. A protocol was developed to purify starch‐containing plastids with a high degree of intactness, and amyloplast B&D was studied using label‐free‐based quantitative proteomic analyses in both cultivars. Over 3000 amyloplast‐localized proteins were identified, of which >98% were quantified and defined as the kfALP (kiwifruit amyloplast proteome). The kfALP data were validated by Tandem‐Mass‐Tag (TMT) labeled proteomics in 'Hort16A'. Analysis of the proteomic data across development and ripening revealed: 1) a conserved increase in the abundance of proteins participating in starch synthesis/degradation during both amyloplast B&D; 2) up‐regulation of proteins for chlorophyll degradation and of plastoglobule‐localized proteins associated with chloroplast breakdown and plastoglobule formation during amyloplast differentiation; 3) constitutive expression of proteins involved in ATP supply and protein import during amyloplast B&D. Interestingly, two different pathways of amyloplast B&D were observed in the two cultivars. In 'Hayward', significant increases in abundance of photosynthetic‐ and tetrapyrrole metabolism‐related proteins were observed, but the opposite trend was observed in 'Hort16A'. In conclusion, analysis of the kfALP provides new insights into the potential mechanisms underlying amyloplast B&D with relevance to key fruit quality traits in contrasting kiwifruit cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors presents a low‐profile wideband circularly polarised (CP) millimetre‐wave (mmWave) elliptical integrated lens antenna (ILA) fabricated by dielectric 3D printing technology. The proposed lens is integrated with a dielectric polariser and an air cavity for phase compensation, which can transfer incident waves from linearly polarised (LP) to planar CP waves over a wide bandwidth. Compared to the classic bifocal ILA, the proposed lens has a low profile. The phase compensation is performed by introducing a specifically shaped air cavity, which greatly reduces the length and weight of the lens. The polariser causes the two electric field components Ex and Ey to degenerate with an orthogonal phase difference, which results in the wideband characteristics of the antenna. The polariser, air cavity and lens can be conveniently and precisely fabricated by low‐cost 3D printing technology. Measurements show that the proposed ILA has a wide axial ratio (AR) bandwidth of 21.9–32.6 GHz, while the gain reaches 22.54 dBic with a 38% size reduction and a 60.7% weight reduction. Benefiting from the low profile, high gain, wide bandwidth and low cost, the proposed ILA has great potential to be the candidate antenna for 5G applications and satellite communications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The types, distribution, morphology, orientation, growth, and aggregation mechanism of primary carbides in the continuous casting slab of 6Cr13 high‐carbon martensitic stainless steel are investigated. In the results, it is shown that M7C3 carbides precipitate from the liquid steel at the end of solidification. The area fraction of primary carbides in the slab thickness direction shows an overall decreasing trend from the center to the edge. And, the closer to the center region, the greater the difference in carbide distribution due to the presence of spot segregation defects. At 1/8 thickness and edges in the slab, the fast cooling rate and fine dendrites make the carbide morphology to be a small‐sized brain like that aggregates a large number of spherical carbides. At 1/4 thickness in the slab, blocky, fibrous, and spherical carbides precipitate successively and eventually aggregate together. At 3/8 thickness and center in the slab, the cooling rate is slower and spot segregation defects are randomly distributed in this region. The carbide morphology is mostly small‐sized brain like in the non‐spot segregation region. However, the alloying elements are highly supersaturated and the carbides can grow sufficiently to form less oriented, large‐sized brain‐like carbide in the spot segregation region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brown and white adipose tissue mediate thermogenesis through the thermogenetic centre of the brain, but safe methods for activating thermogensis and knowledge of the associated molecular mechanisms are lacking. We investigated body surface electroacupuncture stimulation (ES) at ST25 (targeted at the abdomen) induction of brown adipose thermogenesis and the neural mechanism of this process. Inguinal white adipose tissue (iWAT) and interscapular brown adipose tissue (iBAT) were collected and the thermogenic protein expression levels were measured to evaluate iBAT thermogenesis capacity. The thermogenic centre activating region and sympathetic outflow were evaluated based on neural electrical activity and c‐fos expression levels. iWAT sensory axon plasticity was analysed with whole‐mount adipose tissue imaging. ES activated the sympathetic nerves in iBAT and the c‐fos‐positive cells induced sympathetic outflow activation to the iBAT from the medial preoptic area (MPA), the dorsomedial hypothalamus (DM) and the raphe pallidus nucleus (RPA). iWAT denervation mice exhibited decreased c‐fos‐positive cells in the DM and RPA, and lower recombinant uncoupling orotein 1 peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor, β3‐adrenergic receptor, and tyrosine hydroxylase expression. Remodelling the iWAT sensory axons recovered the signal from the MPA to the RPA and induced iBAT thermogenesis. The sympathetic denervation attenuated sensory nerve density. ES induced sympathetic outflow from the thermogenetic centres to iBAT, which mediated thermogenesis. iWAT sensory axon remodelling induced the MPA–DM–RPA–iBAT thermogenesis pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Barley has played a critical role in mankind civilisation. Despite being underexploited, highland barley (HB) is an economical crop demonstrating superior nutritional and health benefits compared to most common cereals. In recent years, germination has drawn a great attention because of its ability to increase nutrients in grains. This review aimed to elucidate the implication of germination in improving the qualities of HB. Because of germination, amelioration in nutrients and digestibility was observed in germinated HB (GHB) than ungerminated HB, due to activation of various enzymes. An increase in polyphenols and antioxidant activity was achieved in GHB. GHB‐based products exhibited better water‐holding capacity, water solubility index, oil‐holding capacity, sensory attributes and cooking time. However, excessive germination may have negative impact on starch‐protein network, which might be detrimental during food processing. Overall, controlled‐germination could be a viable approach to improve the digestibility, palatability, acceptability and shelf‐life of HB‐based products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Oncogenic FGFR1/2/3 rearrangements are found in various cancers. Reported cases in head and neck (HN) are mainly squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) with FGFR3::TACC3 fusions, a subset of which also harbour high‐risk human papillomavirus (HPV). However, the knowledge of the clinicopathological spectrum of FGFR‐rearranged head and neck carcinomas (FHNC) is limited. Methods and results: A retrospective MSK‐fusion clinical sequencing cohort 2016–23 was searched to identify malignant tumours in the HN region harbouring FGFR1/2/3 fusion. FHNC were characterised by histological examination, immunohistochemistry and molecular analysis. Electronic medical records were reviewed. Three FHNC were identified. Two cases (cases 1 and 2) involved sinonasal tract and were high‐grade carcinomas with squamous, basaloid, glandular and/or ductal–myoepithelial features. Case 1 arose in a 79‐year‐old man and harboured FGFR2::KIF1A fusion. Case 2 arose in a 58‐year‐old man, appeared as HPV‐related multiphenotypic sinonasal carcinoma (HMSC), and was positive for FGFR2::TACC2 fusion and concurrent high‐risk HPV, non‐type 16/18. Case 3 was FGFR3::TACC3 fusion‐positive keratinising SCCs arising in the parotid of a 60‐year‐old man. All three cases presented at stage T4. Clinical follow‐up was available in two cases; case 1 remained disease‐free for 41 months post‐treatment and case 3 died of disease 2 months after the diagnosis. Conclusions: FHNC include a morphological spectrum of carcinomas with squamous features and may occur in different HN locations, such as parotid gland and the sinonasal tract. Sinonasal cases can harbour FGFR2 rearrangement with or without associated high‐risk HPV. Timely recognition of FHNC could help select patients potentially amenable to targeted therapy with FGFR inhibitors. Further studies are needed (1) to determine if FGFR2 rearranged/HPV‐positive sinonasal carcinomas are biologically distinct from HMSC, and (2) to elucidate the biological and clinical significance of FGFR2 rearrangement in the context of high‐risk HPV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brucine is a weak alkaline indole alkaloid with wide pharmacological activities and has been identified to protect against rheumatoid arthritis (RA) process. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are also reported to be involved in the pathogenesis of RA. Here, we aimed to probe the role and mechanism of Brucine and circ_0139658 in RA progression. The fibroblast‐like synoviocytes of RA (RA‐FLSs) were isolated for functional analysis. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, migration, as well as inflammatory response were evaluated by CCK‐8 assay, EdU assay, flow cytometry, transwell assay, and ELISA analysis, respectively. qRT‐PCR and western blotting analyses were utilized to measure the levels of genes and proteins. The binding between miR‐653‐5p and circ_0139658 or Yin Yang 1 (YY1), was verified using dual‐luciferase reporter and RNA pull‐down assays. Brucine suppressed the proliferation, migration, and invasion of RA‐FLSs, and alleviated inflammation by reducing the release of pro‐inflammatory factors and macrophage M1 polarization. RA‐FLSs showed increased circ_0139658 and YY1 levels and decreased miR‐653‐5p levels. Circ_0139658 is directly bound to miR‐653‐5p to regulate YY1 expression. Brucine treatment suppressed circ_0139658 and YY1 expression but increased YY1 expression in RA‐FLSs. Functionally, circ_0139658 overexpression reversed the suppressing effects of Brucine on RA‐FLS dysfunction and inflammation. Moreover, circ_0139658 silencing alleviated the dysfunction and inflammation in RA‐FLSs, which were reverted by YY1 overexpression. Brucine suppressed the proliferation, migration, invasion, and inflammation in RA‐FLSs by decreasing YY1 via circ_0139658/miR‐653‐5p axis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To overcome the shuttle effect and improve the energy density of Li–S batteries, developing free‐standing sulfur carriers with high capture and catalytic effect towards polysulfides is an effective strategy. Herein, a MXene/reduced graphene oxide/C3N4 aerogel (MG/C3N4) with three‐dimensional architecture prepared through low‐temperature hydrothermal approach followed by thermal treatment is used as sulfur carrier for free‐standing cathode of Li‐S batteries. In the MG/C3N4, MXene and rGO construct a highly conductive framework, and the MXene nanosheets offer chemical capture and catalytic activity towards lithium polysulfides, in favor of good cycling stability. The introduction of g‐C3N4 further enhances the reactivity of C‐Ti‐N at the hetero‐interface by engineering the electronic state of Ti atoms, leading to the optimized metal d‐band for expediting the multistep conversion of sulfur electrochemistry. Therefore, the free‐standing sulfur cathode with MG/C3N4 carrier achieves excellent performance with a capacity of 1315.6 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C and a capacity retention of 97.5% after 100 cycles as well as superior rate capability with 1167.4 mAh g−1 at 2 C. Even at a high sulfur loading of 4.92 mg cm−2, the cathode remains 940.3 mAh g−1 (4.62 mAh cm−2) after 200 cycles, indicating its promising potential for achieving high‐performance Li‐S batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This thesis proposes a charging equalizer for hybrid energy storage systems, incorporating the Zeta converter, voltage multiplier, and multi‐winding transformer. The objective is efficient charging and equalization for battery and supercapacitor strings. The Zeta converter serves to charge the battery string, while the transformer with multi‐winding shares the inductor of Zeta converter as the primary side, facilitating battery string balancing through the utilization of current ripple in the inductor. Additionally, the voltage ripple generated by the Zeta converter is utilized to drive the voltage multiplier, enabling the charging and equalization of the supercapacitor string. The system's operation halts upon reaching the predefined threshold voltage for the supercapacitor strings. The proposed circuit transforms into a Zeta converter by employing a single‐pole double‐throw switch, facilitating the charging of the battery strings. Experimental validation uses four series‐connected supercapacitors and four series‐connected batteries, demonstrating successful equalization and charging for both energy storage components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elasticity is a critical measure of the eating quality of Udon noodles. To characterize the elasticity of Udon noodles, an instrumental method based on the cantilever beam bending test was established. Firstly, the optimum test parameters were determined. Then, texture profile analysis, compression, tension, and cantilever beam bending methods were used to measure the elasticity of 25 commercial Udon noodles with different shapes and sizes, and the correlations between elasticity obtained by the above instrumental methods and sensory evaluation were analyzed. Finally, how the shape and size of Udon noodles influenced their elasticity was discussed in detail. Within the deflection of 2.0 mm, the force increased approximately linearly with increasing deflection, and moderate loading speed (0.5–1.0 mm/s) should be used in the cantilever beam bending experiments to improve the accuracy of results. The bending stiffness obtained by the cantilever beam bending method exhibited a higher coefficient of variation and stronger correlation with the elasticity of sensory evaluation than other instrumental methods. Furthermore, the Udon noodle sample with a higher size, especially the thickness, had higher elasticity, and the Udon noodle sample with a rectangular cross‐section showed higher elasticity than that with a circular cross‐section. In conclusion, the bending stiffness determined by the cantilever beam bending method could be used to characterize the elasticity of cooked Udon noodles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the therapeutic potential of electroacupuncture (EA) on obesity, focusing on its influence on autophagy and energy metabolism, utilizing a high‐fat diet (HFD)‐induced mouse model. Treatment with EA significantly reduces body weight, fat deposition, and lipid accumulation in HFD‐fed mice. Additionally, EA effectively ameliorates metabolic imbalances, reducing blood glucose levels and plasma markers of liver function. At the molecular level, EA enhances the expression of thermogenesis‐associated genes in brown adipose tissue and decreases p53 expression, suggesting a decrease in apoptosis. Autophagy in white adipose tissue is inhibited by EA, as demonstrated by the suppression of key autophagy‐related proteins. Further experiments highlight the critical role of Sirtuin 3 (Sirt3) in EA's anti‐obesity effects. Sirt3 supplementation combined with EA results in reduced body weight, fat deposition, and lipid accumulation, along with modulations in key metabolic indicators. Moreover, EA's modulatory effect on uncoupling protein 1 (Ucp1), Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma coactivator 1‐alpha (Pgc‐1α), and p53 is found to be Sirt3 dependent. In conclusion, EA exerts beneficial effects against obesity through Sirt3‐dependent modulation of autophagy and energy metabolism, indicating a potential therapeutic approach for obesity and related metabolic disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We conducted a meta‐analysis to assess the effect of platelet‐rich fibrin (PRF) on post‐extraction wound healing and pain, with a view to providing a reliable basis for the selection of treatment options in clinical practice. A computerised search of PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure and Wanfang databases for studies on the effect of PRF on post‐extraction wound healing and pain compared with natural healing (control group) was performed from the time of creation of the respective databases to July 2023. Literature screening, data extraction and quality assessment were done independently by two authors. Meta‐analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4 software. Fourteen studies with a total of 508 patients were finally included. Meta‐analysis showed that the use of PRF relieved patients' wound pain (standardised mean differences [SMDs]: −1.78, 95% confidence intervals [CIs]: −2.61 to −0.94, p < 0.001), promoted soft tissue healing of extraction wounds (SMD: 1.09, 95% CIs: 0.26–1.91, p = 0.010) and also reduced the incidence of alveolar osteitis (AO) in patients after tooth extraction (2.42% vs. 10.14%, odds ratio: 0.27, 95% CIs: 0.11–0.65, p = 0.004). Current clinical evidence suggests that the use of PRFs can reduce patients' postoperative wound pain, promote soft tissue healing of extraction wounds and reduce the incidence of postoperative AO compared with natural healing. However, due to limitations in the number and quality of studies, large‐scale randomised controlled trials are still needed to validate the results of this study in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: For oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), extent of extranodal extension (ENE) (minor, ≤2 mm; major, >2 mm) is differentially prognostic, whereas limitations exist with the 8th edition of American Joint Committee on Cancer/International Union Against Cancer TNM N‐classification (TNM‐8‐N). Methods: Resected OSCC patients at four centers were included and extent of ENE was recorded. Thresholds for optimal overall survival (OS) discrimination of lymph node (LN) features were established. After dividing into training and validation sets, two new N‐classifications were created using 1) recursive partitioning analysis (RPA), and 2) adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) and were ranked against TNM‐8‐N and two published proposals. Results: A total of 1460 patients were included (pN0: 696; pN+: 764). Of the pN+ cases, 135 (18%) had bilateral/contralateral LNs; 126 (17%) and 244 (32%) had minor and major ENE, and two (0.3%) had LN(s) >6 cm without ENE (N3a). LN number (1 and >1 vs. 0: aHRs, 1.92 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.44–2.55] and 3.21 [95% CI, 2.44–4.22]), size (>3 vs. ≤3 cm: aHR, 1.88 [95% CI, 1.44–2.45]), and ENE extent (major vs. minor: aHR, 1.40 [95% CI, 1.05–1.87]) were associated with OS, whereas presence of contralateral LNs was not (aHR, 1.05 [95% CI, 0.81–1.36]). The aHR proposal provided optimal performance with these changes to TNM‐8‐N: 1) stratification of ENE extent, 2) elimination of N2c and 6‐cm threshold, and 3) stratification of N2b by 3 cm threshold. Conclusion: A new N‐classification improved staging performance compared to TNM‐8‐N, by stratifying by ENE extent, eliminating the old N2c category and the 6 cm threshold, and by stratifying multiple nodes by size. There are several limitations in the most recent TNM N classification system including categories with small sample size and categories that have limited prognostic value. The authors proposed and validated a new N classification system that overcomes these limitations and outperforms the previous iteration of TNM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two dimensional (2D) hybrid metal halides (HMHs) usually exhibit free excitonic (FE) emission, and self‐trapped excitonic (STE) emission can also be achieved by adopting appropriate halogens and organic cations. Recently, significant efforts have been made to modulate and then clarify the transformation and connection between these two types of excitonic emissions in 2D HMHs. In this study, intriguing pressure‐tuned transitions between FE emission and STE emission are observed in 2D (C7H7N2)2PbCl4. In contrast, only FE emissions with tunable emission energies are observed in 2D (C7H7N2)2PbBr4 which possesses a similar structure with (C7H7N2)2PbCl4 under compression. Such distinct halide‐dependent optical responses under pressure are experimentally revealed to arise from the intricate interplay among several factors in these HMHs, including the stiffness of the structure, the Coulomb force between the organic cations and the inorganic octahedra, and the magnitude of inorganic octahedral distortion. These high‐pressure optical explorations can unravel the underlying interrelationship between the crystal structure and excitonic emission in 2D HMHs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The large‐scale deployment of aqueous Zn‐ion batteries is hindered by Zn anode instability including surface corrosion, hydrogen gas evolution, and irregular Zn deposition. To tackle these challenges, a polyhydroxylated organic molecular additive, trehalose, is incorporated to refine the solvation structure and promote planar Zn deposition. Within solvation structure regions involving trehalose, the hydroxy groups participate in the reconstruction of hydrogen bond networks, which increases the overpotential for water decomposition reaction. Moreover, at the Zn metal–molecule interface, the chemisorption of trehalose onto the surface of the zinc anode enhances corrosion resistance and facilitates the deposition of zinc in a planar manner. The optimized electrolyte significantly improves Zn striping/plating reversibility and maintains stable potentials over 1600 h at 5 mA cm−2 with a cutoff capacity of 1 mA h cm−2 in symmetric cells. When combined with the MnO2 cathode, the assembled coin cell retains ≈89% of its capacity after 1000 cycles. This organic molecule additive, emphasizing the role of polyhydroxylated organic molecules in fine‐tuning solvation structures and anode/electrolyte interfaces, holds promise for enhancing various aqueous metal batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Recently, HMGA2::WIF1 fusion has been reported in pleomorphic adenoma (PAs) originating from the parotid gland with a characteristic canalicular adenoma (CAA)‐like pattern. However, it is unclear whether HMGA2::WIF1 fusion may occur in salivary gland carcinoma or tumours originating from the minor salivary glands. We herein conducted a detailed clinicopathological review of eight salivary gland tumours harbouring HMGA2::WIF1 fusions. Methods and results: The reviewed diagnoses of salivary gland neoplasms with HMGA2::WIF1 fusion were PA (n = four), myoepithelioma (n = one), myoepithelial carcinoma ex PA (n = two) and high‐grade carcinoma with basaloid features (n = one). Two tumours originated from the minor salivary glands. Six tumours (80%) contained areas reminiscent of CAA characterised by interconnected trabeculae/canaliculi of monotonous oncocytic or cuboidal tumour cells associated with a hypocellular, hyalinised to myxoid stroma. Areas typical of PA were seen in four (50%) cases. All tumours showed diffuse S100 and CK7 immunopositivity. Adverse events were detected in two cases, including local recurrence in a patient with PA, and local and distant recurrences and disease‐related death in a patient with a high‐grade carcinoma of the minor salivary gland of the buccal space, showing tumour necrosis and perineural invasion. Conclusion: Salivary gland neoplasms with HMGA2::WIF1 fusion are predominantly characterised by CAA/striated duct adenoma‐like histology and a S100+/CK7+ immunoprofile. These tumours are not always benign, as among all reported cases approximately 20% showed malignancy (six of 28) and adverse outcome (three of 15), including recurrence, distant metastasis and disease‐specific mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) has an aggressive clinical course, and paclitaxel (PTX)‐based chemotherapy remains the main therapeutic drug. Metadherin (MTDH) acts as an oncogene that regulates proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and chemoresistance. This study aimed to investigate whether TNBC chemosensitivity to PTX was related to the MTDH/AKT/glycogen synthase kinase‐3beta (GSK‐3β) pathway. Clinical baseline characteristics and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were used to evaluate the expression and prognosis of MTDH and AKT (protein kinase B, PKB) in TNBC patient samples. MTDH shRNA, MTDH overexpression vector, MK‐2206, and PTX intervention were used in cell models and mouse tumor‐bearing models. Afterwards, mRNA and protein levels were assessed using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. Evaluate the level of tumor cell apoptosis and cell cycle using flow cytometry. Cell viability was detected using Cell Count Kit 8. The in vivo imaging system is used to analyze the growth of tumors. We found that higher expression of MTDH or AKT resulted in poorer disease‐free survival and a lower Miller–Payne grade. MTDH promotes cell proliferation and increases p‐AKT and p‐GSK‐3β expression in TNBC cells. Notably, suppression of AKT terminated MTDH overexpression‐induced cell proliferation and apoptosis. MTDH knockdown or the AKT inhibitor MK2206 reduced the p‐AKT and p‐GSK‐3β ratio, reduced cell viability and proliferation, increased cell apoptosis, and increased chemosensitivity to PTX. In vivo, xenograft tumors of an MTDH knockdown+MK2206 group treated with PTX were the smallest compared to other groups. In short, MTDH inhibits TNBC chemosensitivity to PTX by activating the AKT/GSK‐3β signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using Glassdoor data we show that women are less satisfied at work than men and that female employees care more about work‐life balance. Further analysis shows that this gender difference in workplace preference vanishes at the manager level, suggesting that women who care less about work‐life balance self‐select into career paths that ultimately lead to management positions. Exploring the performance implications, we show that family‐friendly workplaces with smaller gender gaps in work‐life balance satisfaction are associated with better firm performance. Overall, our study implies that policies that aim to narrow the gender satisfaction gap can be socially and economically desirable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]