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Objective For precise and minimally invasive treatment of ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament of the cervical spine, the lifting segment is minimized, anterior controllable antedisplacement and fusion (ACAF) was refined and improved. In addition, the development of appropriate surgical procedures for the ossification of each segment was rarely reported. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of hybrid anterior controlled antedisplacement fusion (Hybrid ACAF) with laminoplasty for multilevel ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL). Methods Between May 2018 and May 2021, 70 patients with multilevel OPLL were divided into a hybrid ACAF group and a laminoplasty group according to surgical methods. All patients were followed up for at least 1 year. Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score and recovery rate (JOARR), (VAS, NDI) score and C2–C7 Cobb angle, the sagittal vertical axis of the neck (SVA), and complications (cerebrospinal fluid leakage, C5 paralysis, etc.) were compared between the two groups by t test or non‐parametric test. Results The operation time of hybrid ACAF was longer. C5 paralysis and axial pain were more common in the laminoplasty group, while dysphagia and hoarseness were more common in the hybrid ACAF group. At the last follow‐up, the hybrid ACAF group had better recovery and maintenance of cervical lordosis and sagittal plane balance and a higher JOA score and recovery rate than the laminoplasty group. Conclusions Hybrid ACAF can reduce the number of vertebral bodies and expand the decompression range, which is safe, effective, and tailored to local conditions. Compared with laminoplasty, hybrid ACAF is a precise alternative for patients with OPLL.

Abstract Ageratum conyzoides L., an invasive plant originating from South America, is characterized by rapid growth and strong ecological adaptability, posing a threat to China's ecosystems, agricultural industry, and biodiversity. In this study, we optimized the MaxEnt model using the ENMeval package and constructed an ensemble model using the Biomod2 package based on global geospatial distribution data of A. conyzoides and considering climate, soil, and topography factors. We simulated the potential suitable distribution of A. conyzoides in China at present and in the future (2041–2060, 2061–2080). Through multivariate environment similarity surface and most dissimilar variable analysis, we identified the main environmental variables influencing the distribution of A. conyzoides. Additionally, niche analysis elucidated temporal and spatial variations in A. conyzoides' climate niche. Our results demonstrate that the ensemble model, constructed from the top seven single models, outperforms the individual models in predicting the suitable habitat of A. conyzoides. The ensemble model achieved the true skill statistic (TSS) of 0.833 and the area under the subject curve (AUC) of 0.971, indicative of outstanding predictive performance. Presently, the suitable habitat of A. conyzoides in China primarily exists in the region between 18° and 28° N, covering approximately 1.47 million km2. The temperature annual range, precipitation of the wettest month, and mean temperature of the coldest quarter were identified as the primary environmental variables influencing its distribution, while soil and elevation variables had minor roles. Under future climate conditions, the suitable habitat of A. conyzoides is expected to expand northeastward, with the centroid of its habitat shifting northward as the climate warms. The migration speed of A. conyzoides is projected to increase with the degree of warming. Furthermore, the climate niche of A. conyzoides will undergo certain changes and may face both niche expansion and a decrease in niche overlap under different climate conditions.

Abstract Interactions between lone pairs and aromatic π systems are significant across biology and self‐assembled materials. Herein, employing an achiral confinement metal–organic framework (MOF) encapsulates guest molecules, it is successfully realized that lone pair (lp)‐π interaction induces fluorescence “turn‐on” and circularly polarized luminescence for the first time. The MOFs synthesized based on naphthalenediimide show nearly non‐emissive, which can be light‐up by introducing acetone or ester guests containing lone pairs‐π interaction. Furthermore, the introduction of a series of lp‐rich chiral esters induces supramolecular chirality as well as circularly polarized luminescence in achiral MOFs, while also observing chiral adaptability. This work first demonstrates the luminescence and chiral induction via lone pair electrons‐π interactions, presenting a fresh paradigm for the advancement of chiroptical materials.

Abstract Radiotherapy (RT) is often administered, either alone or in combination with other therapies, for most malignancies. However, the degree of tumor oxygenation, damage to adjacent healthy tissues, and inaccurate guidance remain issues that result in discontinuation or failure of RT. Here, a multifunctional therapeutic platform based on Ir@WO3−x is developed which simultaneously addresses these critical issues above for precision radiosensitization. Ir@WO3−x nanoreactors exhibit strong absorption of X‐ray, acting as radiosensitizers. Moreover, ultrasmall Ir enzyme‐mimic nanocrystals (NCs) are decorated onto the surface of the nanoreactor, where NCs have catalyst‐like activity and are sensitive to H2O2 in the tumor microenvironment (TME) under near infrared‐II (NIR‐II) light stimulation. They efficiently catalyze the conversion of H2O2 to O2, thereby ameliorating hypoxia, inhibiting the expression of HIF‐1α, and enhancing RT‐induced DNA damage in cancerous tissue, further improving the efficiency of RT. Additionally, in response to high H2O2 levels in TME, the Ir@WO3−x nanoreactor also exerts peroxidase‐like activity, boosting exogenous ROS, which increases oxidative damage and enhances ROS‐dependent death signaling. Furthermore, Ir@WO3−x can serve as a high‐quality computed tomography contrast agent due to its high X‐ray attenuation coefficient and generation of pronounced tumor‐tissue contrast. This report highlights the potential of advanced health materials to enhance precision therapeutic modalities.

Abstract The influence of entrainment, a key process characterized by the entrainment rate in cumulus parameterization, on aerosol‐cloud interactions has been widely recognized. However, despite qualitative links established between entrainment and aerosol loading, a quantitative relationship based on observational evidence remains elusive. This study utilizes aircraft observations of cumulus clouds during two field campaigns to determine the quantitative relationship between entrainment rate and aerosol loading. In both campaigns, the entrainment rate is negatively correlated with aerosol loading. It is speculated that increased aerosol loading enhances cloud edge droplet evaporation, which leads to increased buoyancy and vertical velocity within the cloud, thereby reducing the entrainment rate. Further analysis shows that the response of entrainment rate to aerosol perturbations is more significant in smaller cumulus clouds with weak buoyancy and less pronounced under opposite conditions. These findings shed new light on improving the description of aerosol‐cloud interactions in cumulus parameterizations.

Abstract Glioma is one of the most common primary malignant brain tumors. Despite progress in therapeutic approaches, the median survival of patients with glioma remains less than 2 years, generating the need for new therapeutic approaches. Ultrasound (US) is widely used in medical fields and is used as a therapeutic tool mainly for improving the performance of therapeutic entities. In this study, we examined a novel approach using low frequency US (20 kHz) (LFUS) as an independent treatment tool for malignant glioma, since primary studies showed that cancer cells are more susceptible to LFUS than healthy cells. LFUS safety and efficacy were examined in a 9L gliosarcoma‐bearing female Fischer 344 rats. Two LFUS protocols were examined: a one‐time treatment (US1X), and two treatments 24 h apart (US2X). For safety evaluation, rats were monitored for weight change and pain measurements. For efficacy, tumor volume was measured as a function of time and the tumor structural chances were examined histopathologically. LFUS treatment showed rapid inhibition of tumor growth, seen as soon as 12 h after US application. In addition, LFUS was found to affect the tumor structure, which was more extensive (>60% of tumor area) in smaller tumors. In US2X, the tumor tissue was completely destroyed, and an extensive immune response was observed. Importantly, the treatment was highly selective, keeping the healthy tissue surrounding the tumor unharmed. We developed a highly efficient and selective therapeutic protocol for treating malignant glioma with minimal side effects based solely on LFUS.

Abstract Background Cognitive impairment is highly prevalent among patients with chronic kidney disease, who face an increased risk of cognitive decline. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI) and cognitive function in older individuals, both with and without chronic kidney disease (CKD). Methods In this study, we analyzed data from 2728 participants in the 2011–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Cognitive function was measured using the Consortium to Establish a Registry for the Alzheimer's Disease Word Learning subtest (CERAD W‐L), the animal fluency test (AFT), the digit symbol substitution test (DSST), and the global cognitive z‐score. The GNRI, representing whole‐body nutritional status, was calculated based on serum albumin, body weight, and ideal body weight. We employed weighted multiple linear regression analyses and subgroup analyses to assess the independent association of GNRI with cognitive function in CKD and non‐CKD populations. Smoothing techniques were used to fit curves, and interaction tests were used to assess the robustness and specificity of the findings. Results Our analyses revealed a significant positive association between higher GNRI levels and cognitive function in the older US population (for global z‐score: β = 0.01; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.00, 0.01). This association remained consistent across various subgroup analyses, including those for different gender groups, age groups, smoking statuses, diabetes statuses, hypertension statuses, individuals with a BMI below 25, individuals who consumed alcohol, and non‐Hispanic white individuals. Smoothed curve‐fitting analyses indicated that the GNRI was linearly related to cognitive function. No statistically significant interactions were detected among these variables. Conclusion Our findings emphasize the positive association between GNRI and cognitive health in individuals with or without CKD, especially when combined with other risk factors. Consequently, enhancing the nutritional status of the elderly may serve as a viable strategy to thwart the onset of cognitive decline.

As the third‐generation network succeeding artificial neural networks (ANNs), spiking neural networks (SNNs) offer high robustness and low energy consumption. Inspired by biological systems, the limitations of low robustness and high‐power consumption in deep reinforcement learning (DRL) are addressed by introducing SNNs. The Brain Q‐network (BrainQN) is proposed, which replaces the neurons in the classic Deep Q‐learning (DQN) algorithm with SNN neurons. BrainQN is trained using surrogate gradient learning (SGL) and ANN‐to‐SNN conversion methods. Robustness tests with input noise reveal BrainQN's superior performance, achieving an 82.14% increase in rewards under low noise and 71.74% under high noise compared to DQN. These findings highlight BrainQN's robustness and superior performance in noisy environments, supporting its application in complex scenarios. SGL‐trained BrainQN is more robust than ANN‐to‐SNN conversion under high noise. The differences in network output correlations between noisy and original inputs, along with training algorithm distinctions, explain this phenomenon. BrainQN successfully transitioned from a simulated Pong environment to a ball‐catching robot with dynamic vision sensors (DVS). On the neuromorphic chip PAICORE, it shows significant advantages in latency and power consumption compared to Jetson Xavier NX.

Abstract Background Little has been reported regarding the prevalence and severity of exercise‐induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH) in 2‐year‐old Thoroughbred racehorses. Objectives Evaluate EIPH prevalence and severity and its association with performance, speed index, furosemide administration, race distance, and track surface. Animals A total of 830 2‐year‐old Thoroughbreds. Methods Prospective blinded observational study. Videoendoscopy was performed 30 to 60 minutes postrace at 15 American racetracks. Three blinded observers independently assigned an EIPH grade (0‐4) to each video, and prevalence and severity of EIPH were determined. Relationships of EIPH grade to performance, speed index, race distance, track surface, and prerace administration of furosemide were evaluated using Pearson's chi‐squared test for categorical variables and analysis of variance (ANOVA) for numerical variables. Multivariable logistic regression assessed relationships between EIPH prevalence and severity, respectively, and the aforementioned independent variables. A P

Purpose Multilevel cervical spondylotic myelopathy poses significant challenges in selecting optimal surgical approaches, warranting a comprehensive understanding of their biomechanical impacts. Given the lack of consensus regarding the most effective technique, this study aims to fill this critical knowledge gap by rigorously assessing and comparing the biomechanical properties of three distinct surgical interventions, including anterior controllable antedisplacement and fusion (ACAF), anterior cervical corpectomy decompression and fusion (ACCF), and anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). The study offers pivotal insights to enhance treatment precision and patient outcomes. Methods The construction of the cervical spine model involved a detailed process using CT data, specialized software (Mimics, Geomagic Studio, and Hypermesh) and material properties obtained from prior studies. Surgical instruments were modeled (titanium mesh, anterior cervical plate, interbody cage, and self‐tapping screws) to simulate three surgical approaches: ACAF, ACCF, and ACDF, each with specific procedures replicating clinical protocols. A 75‐N follower load with 2 Nm was applied to simulate biomechanical effects. Results The range of motion decreased more after surgery for ACAF and ACDF than for ACCF, especially in flexion and lateral bending. ACCF have higher stress peaks in the fixation system than those of ACAF and ACDF, especially in flexion. The maximum von Mises stresses of the bone–screw interfaces at C3 of ACCF were higher than those of ACAF and ACDF. The maximum von Mises stresses of the bone–screw interfaces at C6 of ACDF were much higher than those of ACAF and ACCF. The maximum von Mises stresses of the grafts of ACCF and ACAF were much higher than those of ACDF. The maximum von Mises stresses of the endplate of ACCF were much higher than those of ACAF and ACDF. Conclusion The ACAF and ACDF models demonstrated superior cervical reconstruction stability over the ACCF model. ACAF exhibited lower risks of internal fixation failure and cage subsidence compared to ACCF, making it a promising approach. However, while ACAF revealed improved stability over ACCF, higher rates of subsidence and internal fixation failure persisted compared to ACDF, suggesting the need for further exploration of ACAF's long‐term efficacy and potential improvements in clinical outcomes.

Abstract Background During the pandemic, a notable increase in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS), conditions that warrant emergent management, was reported. We aimed to investigate the trend of DKA‐ and HHS‐related mortality and excess deaths during the pandemic. Methods Annual age‐standardized mortality rates related to DKA and HHS between 2006 and 2021 were estimated using a nationwide database. Forecast analyses based on prepandemic data were conducted to predict the mortality rates during the pandemic. Excess mortality rates were calculated by comparing the observed versus predicted mortality rates. Subgroup analyses of demographic factors were performed. Results There were 71 575 DKA‐related deaths and 8618 HHS‐related deaths documented during 2006–2021. DKA, which showed a steady increase before the pandemic, demonstrated a pronounced excess mortality during the pandemic (36.91% in 2020 and 46.58% in 2021) with an annual percentage change (APC) of 29.4% (95% CI: 16.0%–44.0%). Although HHS incurred a downward trend during 2006–2019, the excess deaths in 2020 (40.60%) and 2021 (56.64%) were profound. Pediatric decedents exhibited the highest excess mortality. More than half of the excess deaths due to DKA were coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) related (51.3% in 2020 and 63.4% in 2021), whereas only less than a quarter of excess deaths due to HHS were COVID‐19 related. A widened racial/ethnic disparity was observed, and females exhibited higher excess mortality than males. Conclusions The DKA‐ and HHS‐related excess mortality during the pandemic and relevant disparities emphasize the urgent need for targeted strategies to mitigate the escalated risk in these populations during public health crises.

Abstract Immunotherapy is showing good potential for colorectal cancer therapy, however, low responsive rates and severe immune‐related drug side effects still hamper its therapeutic effectiveness. Herein, a highly stable cerasomal nano‐modulator (DMC@P‐Cs) with ultrasound (US)‐controlled drug delivery capability for selective sonodynamic‐immunotherapy is fabricated. DMC@P‐Cs’ lipid bilayer is self‐assembled from cerasome‐forming lipid (CFL), pyrophaeophorbid conjugated lipid (PL), and phospholipids containing unsaturated chemical bonds (DOPC), resulting in US‐responsive lipid shell. Demethylcantharidin (DMC) as an immunotherapy adjuvant is loaded in the hydrophilic core of DMC@P‐Cs. With US irradiation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) can be effectively generated from DMC@P‐Cs, which can not only kill tumor cells for inducing immunogenic cell death (ICD), but also oxidize unsaturated phospholipids‐DOPC to change the permeability of the lipid bilayers and facilitate controlled release of DMC, thus resulting in down‐regulation of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and amplification of anti‐tumor immune responses. After intravenous injection, DMC@P‐Cs can efficiently accumulate at the tumor site, and local US treatment resulted in 94.73% tumor inhibition rate. In addition, there is no detectable systemic toxicity. Therefore, this study provides a highly stable and US‐controllable smart delivery system to achieve synergistical sonodynamic‐immunotherapy for enhanced colorectal cancer therapy.

Abstract Temperature distribution in transformer windings is a crucial factor that influences the safe operation, and lifespan of an insulating system in an oil‐immersed power transformer. Thermal hydraulic network modelling (THNM) has been the subject of numerous studies because of its lower computation cost as compared to a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation. This study proposes improvements to THNM, with primary focus on non‐uniformity of temperatures in the entry and exit vertical oil ducts, and the feasibility of using a piecewise fitting formula for Nusselt number (Nu) of convection heat transfer coefficient in transformer windings. The deviation of hot spot temperature was 0.3°C, and the location of hot spot for CFD and THNM was 34th disc and 35th disc, respectively. The calculation time of CFD and THNM was about 34 h and 35 s under the same computer hardware situations. This provides an acceptable THNM method for the rapid prediction of transformer hot spot temperature and location at low costs for digital twin.

Abstract The prevalence of infertility caused by endometrial defects is steadily increasing, posing a significant challenge to women's reproductive health. In this study, injectable “homing‐like” bioactive decellularized extracellular matrix short‐fibers (DEFs) of porcine skin origin are innovatively designed for endometrial and fertility restoration. The DEFs can effectively bind to endometrial cells through noncovalent dipole interactions and release bioactive growth factors in situ. In vitro, the DEFs effectively attracted endometrial cells through the “homing‐like” effect, enabling cell adhesion, spreading, and proliferation on their surface. Furthermore, the DEFs effectively facilitated the proliferation and angiogenesis of human primary endometrial stromal cells (HESCs) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), and inhibited fibrosis of pretreated HESCs. In vivo, the DEFs significantly accelerated endometrial restoration, angiogenesis, and receptivity. Notably, the deposition of endometrial collagen decreased from 41.19 ± 2.16% to 14.15 ± 1.70% with DEFs treatment. Most importantly, in endometrium‐injured rats, the use of DEFs increased the live birth rate from 30% to an impressive 90%, and the number and development of live births close to normal rats. The injectable “homing‐like” bioactive DEFs system can achieve efficient live births and intrauterine injection of DEFs provides a new promising clinical strategy for endometrial factor infertility.

Abstract The reductions in aerosols often exacerbate climate warming. It remains unclear how to effectively alleviate PM2.5 pollution while minimizing the penalty on climate warming. Here we identify the clean air measures in China that are associated with low aerosol climate penalty efficiency (ACPE), which is defined as aerosol radiative forcing per unit PM2.5 concentration reduction. The measures in transportation, residential combustion, and open burning sectors generally caused lower ACPE [0.07, 0.24, and 0.10 (W m−2)/(μg m−3)] than those from other sectors [0.34–0.46 (W m−2)/(μg m−3)]. This is ascribed to relatively small decreases in cloud concentration nuclei per unit PM2.5 reduction in these sectors, which is further attributed to either relatively low aerosol hygroscopicity or relatively small decrease in aerosol number. Most measures in the former three sectors have low ACPE of

Abstract Chicken coccidiosis is an intestinal disease caused by the parasite Eimeria, which severely damages the growth of chickens and causes significant economic losses in the poultry industry. Improvement of the immune protective effect of antigens to develop high efficiency subunit vaccines is one of the hotspots in coccidiosis research. Sporozoite‐specific surface antigen 1 (SAG1) of Eimeria tenella (E. tenella) is a well‐known protective antigen and is one of the main target antigens for the development of subunit, DNA and vector vaccines. However, the production and immunoprotective effects of SAG1 need to be further improved. Here, we report that both SAG1 from E. tenella and its fusion protein with the xylanase XynCDBFV‐SAG1 are recombinant expressed and produced in Pichia pastoris (P. pastoris). The substantial expression quantity of fusion protein XynCDBFV‐SAG1 is achieved through fermentation in a 15‐L bioreactor, reaching up to about 2 g/L. Moreover, chickens immunized with the fusion protein induced higher protective immunity as evidenced by a significant reduction in the shedding of oocysts after E. tenella challenge infection compared with immunized with recombinant SAG1. Our results indicate that the xylanase enhances the immunogenicity of subunit antigens and has the potential for developing novel molecular adjuvants. The high expression level of fusion protein XynCDBFV‐SAG1 in P. pastoris holds promise for the development of effective recombinant anti‐coccidial subunit vaccine.

Objective It is clinically important for pedicle screws to be placed quickly and accurately. Misplacement of pedicle screws results in various complications. However, the incidence of complications varies greatly due to the different professional titles of physicians and surgical experience. Therefore, physicians must minimize pedicle screw dislocation. This study aims to compare the three nail placement methods in this study, and explore which method is the best for determining the anatomical landmarks and vertical trajectories. Methods This study involved 70 patients with moderate idiopathic scoliosis who had undergone deformity correction surgery between 2018 and 2021. Two spine surgeons used three techniques (preoperative computed tomography scan [CTS], visual inspection‐X‐freehand [XFH], and intraoperative detection [ID] of anatomical landmarks) to locate pedicle screws. The techniques used include visual inspection for 287 screws in 21 patients, preoperative planning for 346 screws in 26 patients, and intraoperative probing for 309 screws in 23 patients. Observers assessed screw conditions based on intraoperative CT scans (Grade A, B, C, D). Results There were no significant differences between the three groups in terms of age, sex, and degree of deformity. We found that 68.64% of screws in the XFH group, 67.63% in the CTS group, and 77.99% in the ID group were placed within the pedicle margins (grade A). On the other hand, 6.27% of screws in the XFH group, 4.33% in the CTS group, and 6.15% in the ID group were considered misplaced (grades C and D). The results show that the total amount of upper thoracic pedicle screws was fewer, meanwhile their placement accuracy was lower. The three methods used in this study had similar accuracy in intermediate physicians (P > 0.05). Compared with intermediate physicians, the placement accuracy of three techniques in senior physicians was higher. The intraoperative detection group was better than the other two groups in the good rate and accuracy of nail placement (P

Abstract Aim To investigate undergraduate nursing students' general study engagement using intra‐individual assessment and to evaluate the impact of core self‐evaluation and career calling on study engagement. Design A descriptive and cross‐sectional design. Methods Data were collected using a self‐administered questionnaire survey. Four hundred and twenty nursing students from first‐ to fourth (final)‐academic year in Guangzhou Medical University were invited to participate in the spring of 2021. The Cronbach's alpha, one‐way analysis of variance, Bonferroni post hoc analysis, Pearson correlation analysis and multiple stepwise regression analysis were used to analyse the data. Results The first‐ and fourth‐year undergraduates showed significantly higher levels of study engagement (first‐year undergraduates, 3.52 ± 0.59; fourth‐year undergraduates, 3.54 ± 0.64), core self‐evaluation (first‐year undergraduates, 3.04 ± 0.48; fourth‐year undergraduates, 3.11 ± 0.45) and career calling (first‐year undergraduates, 3.65 ± 0.47; fourth‐year undergraduates, 3.69 ± 0.50) than those of second‐year undergraduates (study engagement, 3.32 ± 0.61; core self‐evaluation, 2.93 ± 0.52; career calling, 3.41 ± 0.50) and third‐year undergraduates (study engagement, 3.16 ± 0.61; core self‐evaluation, 2.88 ± 0.50; career calling, 3.34 ± 0.38). The Pearson correlation analysis among nursing students revealed a significant positive correlation between core self‐evaluation, career calling and study engagement (p

Abstract Of the 12 wild felid species found in China, Asiatic golden cat (Catopuma temminckii) is one of the least studied species. This medium‐sized cat with a prominently polymorphic coat was once distributed across much of southern China, but is believed to have experienced severe decline and range contraction during the past decades, primarily due to anthropogenic pressures. A lack of knowledge of its current distribution, ecology, and natural history has greatly hindered the implementation of conservation and management actions for this species. In this study, for the first time, we compiled the state‐wide occurrence records (N = 409), mainly from the camera‐trapping surveys, of Asiatic golden cats from 2008 to 2019, and predicted its distribution across the country through species distribution modeling using random forest algorithm. The results showed that the predicted habitats were mainly located in southwest China and suggested a rather low probability of possible current distribution across its vast historic range in central, eastern, and southern China. We divided its current range into four geographic regions (i.e., Qinling Mountains, Hengduan Mountains, East Himalayas, and southern Yunnan region) and considered the cats in each region as a regional population within the country. From the 287 camera‐trapping detections with photographs and/or videos collected across all populations, we identified six coat morphs and determined their occurrence percentages: common golden (47.4%), spotted (20.9%), red (13.6%), dark cinnamon (10.1%), melanistic (7.0%), and gray (1.0%). The complexity of coat morph composition within regional populations showed an increasing gradient from northeast to southwest. Among the four regional populations, the East Himalayas hosted the highest abundance and coat variation with all six morphs recorded. Our study results update the current distribution and coat morphology variations of this elusive cat in China and provide important knowledge to guide future research and conservation planning for this threatened species.

Abstract Cells constantly sense and respond to not only biochemical but also biomechanical changes in their microenvironment, demanding for dynamic metabolic adaptation. ECM stiffening is a hallmark of cancer aggressiveness, while survival under substrate detachment also associates with poor prognosis. Mechanisms underlying this, non‐linear mechano‐response of tumor cells may reveal potential double‐hit targets for cancers. Here, an integrin‐GSK3β‐FTO‐mTOR axis is reported, that can integrate stiffness sensing to ensure both the growth advantage endowed by rigid substrate and cell death resistance under matrix detachment. It is demonstrated that substrate stiffening can activate mTORC1 and elevate mTOR level through integrins and GSK3β‐FTO mediated mRNA m6A modification, promoting anabolic metabolism. Inhibition of this axis upon ECM detachment enhances autophagy, which in turn conveys resilience of tumor cells to anoikis, as it is demonstrated in human breast ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and mice malignant ascites. Collectively, these results highlight the biphasic mechano‐regulation of cellular metabolism, with implications in tumor growth under stiffened conditions such as fibrosis, as well as in anoikis‐resistance during cancer metastasis.

Abstract Introduction Aberrant expression of long noncoding RNAs (LncRNAs) can regulate oxidative stress in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This study focused on investigating the effects of LncRNA differentiation antagonizing nonprotein coding RNA (DANCR) regulation of Keap1‐Nrf2/ARE pathway on inflammation and oxidative stress in RA. Methods The levels of LncRNA DANCR/miR‐486‐3p/Keap1 in peripheral blood of 30 RA groups and 30 normal subjects were examined, and the association of LncRNA DANCR with inflammatory indicators of RA was investigated. We stimulated fibroblast‐like synoviocytes (FLS) from RA patients with tumor necrosis factor α and subsequently performed in vitro cellular assays to construct overexpression plasmids and small interfering RNAs of LncRNA DANCR to investigate the relationship between LncRNA DANCR and FLSs viability and migration in RA, as well as the effects on cellular oxidative stress factors and Keap1‐Nrf2/ARE pathway; molecular biology analysis was used to predict microRNAs that can bind LncRNA DANCR, and luciferase verified the binding sites of LncRNA DANCR with Keap1 and miR‐486‐3p; to further refine the gene and protein expression results, we used reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunoblotting assays. Results In both groups of peripheral blood mononuclear cells, the expression levels of LncRNA DANCR and Keap1 messenger RNA were higher in the RA group than in the normal control group, and the opposite was true for miR‐486‐3p; LncRNA DANCR was positively correlated with total antioxidant capacity (TAOC), IL6, IL17, malondialdehyde (MDA), but not with IL11, rheumatoid factor, cyclic citrullinated peptide, superoxide dismutase (SOD), with 28‐joint disease activity score, reactive oxygen species, C‐reactive protein, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate were negatively correlated; overexpression of LncRNA DANCR stimulated the Keap1‐Nrf2/ARE pathway, decreased the expression of IL10, SOD, TAOC, and increased the expression levels of MDA, IL11, IL‐17, PD‐L1, and silencing of LncRNA DANCR was the opposite, but knockdown of miR‐486‐3p or overexpression of keap1 reversed the expression of the above‐mentioned inflammatory and oxidative factors. In addition, pcDNA‐DANCR clearly showed stronger cell invasion and migration ability and exacerbated its inflammatory response, which may be related to the regulatory role of miR‐486‐3p and Keap1‐Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway, and we verified their targeting relationship using dual luciferase, showing that DANCR could regulate Keap1‐Nrf2/ARE through miR‐486‐3p modulates the Keap1‐Nrf2/ARE pathway and affects inflammatory and oxidative responses in RA patients. Conclusion The low‐expressed LncRNA DANCR may regulate the Keap1‐Nrf2/ARE pathway and suppress the inflammatory and oxidative responses in RA patients.

Spiking neural networks (SNNs) become popular choices for processing spatiotemporal input data and enabling low‐power event‐driven spike computation on neuromorphic processors. However, direct SNN training algorithms are not well compatible with error back‐propagation process, while indirect conversion algorithms based on artificial neural networks (ANNs) are usually accuracy–lossy due to various approximation errors. Both of them suffer from lower accuracies compared with their reference ANNs and need lots of time steps to achieve stable performance in deep architectures. In this article, a novel conversion framework is presented for deep SNNs with negative‐spike dynamics, which takes a quantization constraint and spike compensation technique into consideration during ANN‐to‐SNN conversion, and a truly lossless accuracy performance with their ANN counterparts is obtained. The converted SNNs can retain full advantages of simple leaky‐integrate‐and‐fire spiking neurons and are very suited for hardware implementation. In the experimental results, it is shown that converted spiking LeNet on MNIST/FashionMNIST and VGG‐Net on CIFAR‐10 dataset yield the state‐of‐the‐art classification accuracies with quite shortened computing time steps and much fewer synaptic operations.

Abstract Serine proteases are among the most important biological additives in various industries such as detergents, leather, animal feed and food. A serine protease gene, Fgapt4, from Fusarium graminearum 2697 was identified, cloned and expressed in Pichia pastoris. The optimal pH and temperature of FgAPT4 were 8.5 and 40°C, respectively. The relative activity was >30% even at 10°C. It had a wide range of pH stability (4.0–12.0) and detergent compatibility. To improve the catalytic activity, a strategy combining molecular docking and evolutionary analysis was adopted. Twelve amino acid residue sites and three loops (A, B and C) were selected as potential hot spots that might play critical roles in the enzyme's functional properties. Twenty‐eight mutants targeting changes in individual sites or loops were designed, and mutations with good performance were combined. The best mutant was FgAPT4‐M3 (Q70N/D142S/A143S/loop C). The specific activity and catalytic efficiency of FgAPT4‐M3 increased by 1.6 (1008.5 vs. 385.9 U/mg) and 2.2‐fold (3565.1 vs. 1106.3/s/mM), respectively. Computational analyses showed that the greater flexibility of the substrate pocket may be responsible for the increased catalytic activity. In addition, its application in detergents indicated that FgAPT4‐M3 has great potential in washing.

Abstract Aim The aim of this study is to describe critical thinking dispositions among newly graduated nurses with different educational background in China and to explore related factors. Design A cross‐sectional questionnaire survey. Methods The data were collected using the Chinese Version of Critical Thinking Dispositions Inventory (CTDI‐CV). Overall, 588 newly graduated nurses finally completed the survey. Spearman and Pearson's correlation coefficients were used to examine the correlation between the CDTI‐CV and nurses' general characteristics. Results In terms of open‐mindedness, analysis and inquisitiveness subscales, significant differences were found among nurses based on three educational level. When dichotomizing total CTDI scores into high and low, nearly 80% of the respondents fell into low score group. Pressure from workplace was high for 68.4% of them. Significant correlation was found among the new graduated nurses' critical thinking ability and their age, education level, reading habit and attitude towards nursing profession.

Abstract The gut bacteria involves in insect homeostasis by playing essential roles in host physiology, metabolism, innate immunity, and so forth. microRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous small noncoding RNAs that posttranscriptionally regulate gene expression to affect immune or metabolic processes in insects. For several non‐model insects, the available knowledge on the relationship between changes in the gut bacteria and miRNA profiles is limited. In this study, we investigated the gut bacterial diversity, composition, and function from Altica viridicyanea feeding on normal‐ and antibiotic‐treated host plants using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing; antibiotics have been shown to affect the body weight and development time in A. viridicyanea, suggesting that the gut bacteria of the normal sample were more diverse and abundant than those of the antibiotic‐fed group, and most of them were involved in various physical functions by enrichment analysis. Furthermore, we executed small RNA transcriptome sequencing using the two experimental groups to obtain numerous sRNAs, such as piRNAs, siRNAs, and known and novel miRNAs, by data mapping and quality control, and furthermore, a total of 224 miRNAs were identified as significantly differentially expressed miRNAs, of which some DEMs and their target genes participated in immune‐ and metabolism‐related pathways based on GO and KEGG annotation. Besides, regarding the regulatory roles of miRNA and target genes, a interaction network of DEM‐target gene pairs from eight immune‐ or metabolism‐related signaling pathways were constructed. Finally, we discovered that DEMs from above pathways were significantly positively or negatively correlated with gut bacterial alterations following antibiotic treatment. Collectively, the observations of this study expand our understanding of how the disturbance of gut bacteria affects miRNA profiles in A. viridicyanea and provide new valuable resources from extreme ranges for future studies on the adaptive evolution in insects.

Abstract Patients with pulmonary embolism (PE) commonly manifest concomitant “pneumonia,” which is generally believed to be either a cause (infection) or a consequence (infarction) of PE. This study aimed to clarify the relationship between PE and “pneumonia‐like” lesions beyond pulmonary infection and infarction. Chest computed tomography (CT) images of patients with PE and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) were retrospectively analyzed to compare the incidence of pneumonia lesions. The pathological damage and wet/dry ratio of lung tissues were observed in PE rats and PE plasma‐injected rats. In total, 793 and 914 inpatients were enrolled in the PE and DVT groups, respectively. Pneumonia lesions were observed in 36.9% and 26.3% of patients in the PE and DVT groups, respectively (p

Abstract Background The abnormal expression of long noncoding RNA (LncRNA) HOTAIR has been associated with synovial angiogenesis in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The aim of this study is to investigate whether LncRNA HOTAIR plays a role in synovial angiogenesis in RA by regulating the phosphoinositide 3‐kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) pathway through the miR‐126‐3p/PIK3R2 axis. Methods In this study, we conducted in vitro experiments by designing overexpression plasmids and small interfering RNAs targeting LncRNA HOTAIR and then transfected them into rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast‐like synoviocytes (RA‐FLS). We then co‐cultured the RA‐FLS with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) to establish a RA‐FLS‐induced HUVEC model. We investigated the effects of LncRNA HOTAIR on the proliferation, migration, lumen forming ability of HUVEC, as well as the expression of synovial endothelial cell markers, angiogenic factors, and the PI3K/AKT pathway. To validate the interactions between LncRNA HOTAIR, miR‐126‐3p, and PIK3R2, we used bioinformatics and luciferase reporter experiments. We also employed real‐time fluorescence quantitative, Western blotanalysis, and immunofluorescence techniques to analyze the target genes and proteins. Results The expression of LncRNA HOTAIR was upregulated in HUVEC induced by RA‐FLS. The overexpression of LncRNA HOTAIR significantly increased the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor, basic fibroblast growth factor, CD34, and CD105 in HUVEC, promoting their proliferation, migration, and lumen formation. At the same time, the overexpression of LncRNA HOTAIR inhibited the expression of miR‐126‐3p, promoted the expression of PIK3R2, activated the PI3K/AKT pathway, and promoted the expression of PI3K, AKT and phosphorylated‐AKT, while the silence of LncRNA HOTAIR reversed these expressions. Bioinformatics and double luciferase reporter gene experiments confirmed the targeting relationship among LncRNA HOTAIR, miR‐126‐3p, and PIK3R2. Finally, the rescue experiments showed that PI3K agonists could reverse the inhibitory effect of silent LncRNA HOTAIR on HUVEC. Conclusion LncRNA HOTAIR has the potential to activate the PI3K/AKT pathway, likely through the regulatory axis involving miR‐126‐3p/PIK3R2, consequently contributing to synovial angiogenesis in RA.

Abstract The generation mechanism of stratospheric gravity waves (SGWs) in tropical cyclones (TCs) is investigated with an idealized experiment using numerical model. The results show that there are two peaks of SGW amplitude during the mature period of TC, one above the eyewall and the other above the rainband. The SGWs can only exist in unbalanced flow, so a simplified balance equation suitable for the special structure of the TC is proposed to investigate the SGWs. Diagnosis of this equation shows there is significant unbalanced flow around the eyewall and rainband caused by the convection and the vertical shear between outflow and compensating inflow. Diagnosis of the source function indicates that diabatic heating and mechanical oscillations are the main mechanisms generating the SGWs above the eyewall and rainband. The Kelvin–Helmholtz instability induced by vertical shear also makes a non‐negligible contribution to the generation of SGWs above the rainband.

Abstract Urban greenspace provides citizens with important cultural ecosystem services (CES). Identifying landscape features and land use contexts that facilitate CES delivery is critical for guiding urban greenspace management. However, how landscape features and urban context interact with each other in influencing the CES of greenspaces remains unclear. Studies on the CES of patchy urban forests are needed as they are essential urban CES providers, but vulnerable under urban land use pressure. To address these concerns, we compared the CES of 20 urban forest patches in Helsinki, Finland, with five different combinations of landscape features (i.e. size and connectivity) and land use contexts (i.e. surrounding construction density). CES were assessed through an on‐site survey on visitors' use, perceptions of CES experience and overall satisfaction, to capture the possible disparities among CES measurements. In larger (>20 ha) forests, visitors were highly satisfied with CES, particularly appreciating the experience of physical health improvement and inspiration through longer and more intense physical uses. Visitors of urban forests in a low construction density context appreciated experiences of cultural heritage, psychological restoration and physical health improvement. Urban forests deliver unique CES characterised by physical use and the benefit of restoration, aesthetics and contact with nature. We suggest that maintaining large urban forests is more effective in promoting CES in high‐density areas. In low‐density areas, maintaining small forests with open greenspace in the surroundings can also promote CES experiences. We identify management gaps caused by a mismatch between use intensity and CES experiences of urban forests, while both are important in determining people's overall satisfaction. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

Abstract Mulberry is an economically important plant in the sericulture industry and traditional medicine. However, the genetic and evolutionary history of mulberry remains largely unknown. Here, this work presents the chromosome‐level genome assembly of Morus atropurpurea (M. atropurpurea), originating from south China. Population genomic analysis using 425 mulberry accessions reveal that cultivated mulberry is classified into two species, M. atropurpurea and M. alba, which may have originated from two different mulberry progenitors and have independent and parallel domestication in north and south China, respectively. Extensive gene flow is revealed between different mulberry populations, contributing to genetic diversity in modern hybrid cultivars. This work also identifies the genetic architecture of the flowering time and leaf size. In addition, the genomic structure and evolution of sex‐determining regions are identified. This study significantly advances the understanding of the genetic basis and domestication history of mulberry in the north and south, and provides valuable molecular markers of desirable traits for mulberry breeding.

Abstract Background The competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) activity of circular RNAs (circRNAs) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of cancers, including esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Here, we identified the ceRNA mechanism of circ_0000654 regulation in ESCC. Methods The levels of circ_0000654, E2F transcription factor 3 (E2F3), and microRNA (miR)‐375 were gauged by quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR) and western blot. Cell proliferation was assessed by 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐5‐(3‐carboxymethoxyphenyl)‐2‐(4‐sulfophenyl)‐2H‐tetrazolium (MTS) and 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine (EdU) assays. Cell apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry. Cell colony formation was tested by colony formation assay. Dual‐luciferase reporter, RNA pull‐down and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays were performed to confirm the direct relationship between miR‐375 and circ_0000654 or E2F3. Xenograft model assays were used to evaluate the effect of circ_0000654 in vivo. Results Circ_0000654 and E2F3 were upregulated in ESCC. Circ_0000654 depletion enhanced cell apoptosis and hindered cell proliferation and glycolysis in vitro, as well as weakened tumor growth in vivo. Increased expression of E2F3 counteracted the effects of circ_0000654 depletion. Mechanistically, E2F3 was a target of miR‐375, and circ_0000654 modulated E2F3 expression through sequestering miR‐375. Furthermore, miR‐375 upregulation phenocopied circ_0000654 knockdown in inhibiting ESCC progression. Conclusion Our findings identify a new circ_0000654/miR‐375/E2F3 ceRNA crosstalk for the oncogenic role of circ_0000654 in ESCC and establish a notion that targeting circ_0000654 and its pathways may have the potential to improve ESCC outcome.

Abstract Several retrofillings have been performed by different utilities in China. However, there is still insufficient understanding of the retrofilling procedures for minimising residual mineral oil and on the effect of the temperature rise of transformers. Following new detailed procedures, an out‐of‐service S11‐M‐315/10 (10 kV 315 kVA) and a new S13‐M‐400/10 (10 kV 400 kVA) distribution transformers were selected to retrofill their mineral oil with FR3, a soybean‐based natural ester. A method was proposed to predict the residual mineral oil content, which uses the kinematic viscosity at 60°C. This method fills a gap in the testing of residual mineral oil content. The mass ratios of residual mineral oil were 1.24% for the S11‐M‐315/10 transformer and 2.05% for the S13‐M‐400/10 transformer, based on the procedures in this study. The fire point of the mixed oil after retrofilling was 352°C, which meets the K‐class less‐flammable requirements, indicating a proper control of residual mineral oil. After retrofilling, the time of reaching the limits of the 1.5 times rated load was 30% longer than that of the mineral oil transformer. Two retrofilled transformers have been operating in good conditions since November 2019 for the S11‐M‐315/10 transformer and December 2020 for the S13‐M‐400/10 transformer.

Abstract Chemotherapy in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) or bevacizumab has demonstrated a superior effect for non‐squamous non‐small cell lung cancer (NS‐NSCLC). There are still few randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the differences between ICI plus chemotherapy (ICI‐chemotherapy) and bevacizumab plus chemotherapy (Bev‐chemotherapy) in first‐line treatment of NS‐NSCLC. We identified RCTs in databases and conference abstracts presented at international conferences by Sep 1, 2021. Bayesian network meta‐analysis was performed using randomized effect consistency model to estimate hazard ratio (HR) and odds ratio (OR). The outcomes included overall survival (OS), progression‐free survival (PFS), overall response rate (ORR), and grade ≥ 3 treatment‐related adverse events (TRAEs). Fifteen RCTs (17 articles) of 6561 advanced NS‐NSCLC patients receiving ICI‐chemotherapy, Bev‐chemotherapy, or chemotherapy at first‐line were eligible for analysis. NMA results showed that first‐line ICI‐chemotherapy prolonged OS (HR 0.79, 0.66–0.94) in patients with advanced NS‐NSCLC compared with Bev‐chemotherapy, while no differences were in PFS, ORR, and grade ≥ 3 TRAEs (p > 0.05). Ranking plots suggested that ICI‐chemotherapy had the most probability to offer the best OS (probability 0.993), PFS (probability 0.658), and ORR (probability 0.565), and Bev‐chemotherapy had the most risks of grade ≥ 3 TRAEs (probability 0.833). Therefore, our findings showed that first‐line ICI‐chemotherapy was associated with better OS than Bev‐chemotherapy in patients with advanced NS‐NSCLC, and more clinical trials are warranted to confirm these results.

Objective To achieve the anatomical evaluation of spinal nerve and cervical intervertebral foramina in anterior controllable antedisplacement and fusion (ACAF) surgery, a novel surgical technique with the wider decompression, through a cadaveric and radiologic study. Methods Radiographic data of consecutive 47 patients (21 by ACAF and 26 by anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion [ACCF]) who have accepted surgery for treatment of cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament(OPLL) and stenosis from March 2017 to March 2018 were retrospectively reviewed and compared between an ACAF group and ACCF group. Three postoperative radiographic parameters were evaluated: the decompression width and the satisfaction rate of decompression at the entrance zone of intervertebral foramina on computed tomography (CT), and the transverse diameter of spinal cord in the decompression levels on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In the anatomic study, three fresh cadaveric spines (death within 3 months) undergoing ACAF surgery were also studied. Four anatomic parameters were evaluated: the width of groove, the distance between the bilateral origins of ventral rootlets, the length of ventral rootlet from their origin to the intervertebral foramina, the descending angle of ventral rootlet. Results The groove created in ACAF surgery included the bilateral origins of ventral rootlets. The rootlets tended to be vertical from the rostral to the caudal direction as their takeoff points from the central thecal sac became higher and farther away from their corresponding intervertebral foramina gradually. No differences were identified between left and right in terms of the length of ventral rootlet from the origin to the intervertebral foramina and the descending angle of ventral rootlet. The decompression width was significantly greater in ACAF group (19.2 ± 1.2 vs 14.7 ± 1.2, 21.3 ± 2.2 vs 15.4 ± 0.9, 21.5 ± 2.1 vs 15.7 ± 1.0, 21.9 ± 1.6 vs 15.9 ± 0.8, from C3 to C6). The satisfactory rate of decompression at the entrance zone of intervertebral foramina tended to be better in the left side in ACAF group (significant differences were identified in the left side at C3/4, C4/5, C6/7 level, and in the right side at C4/5 level when compared with ACCF). And decompression width was significantly greater than the transverse diameter of spinal cord in ACAF group. Comparatively, there existed no significant difference in the ACCF group besides the C5 level. Conclusion ACAF can decompress the entrance zone of intervertebral foramina effectively and its decompression width includes the origins and massive running part of bilateral ventral rootlets. Due to its wider decompression range, ACAF can be used as a revision strategy for the patients with failed ACCF.

Abstract Zinc oxide, as a commonly used photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants, typically shows limitations in wastewater treatment, such as aggregation and recycling problems caused by nanoscale dimensions and inappropriate substrates. Anchoring ZnO on substrates is a strategy to obtain stable catalytic performance. Particularly, natural fibers with hollow structures are an attractive alternative for ecological and economical ZnO loading templates, but depositing ZnO onto hollowed fiber surfaces presents a challenge. Here, a straightforward in situ growth method for producing nanostructured zinc oxide on cotton fibers from recycled garments is reported. The modified polydopamine on the fiber surface captures the catalyst required for in situ growth of ZnO and serves as a platform for spontaneous catalytic crystal growth on the fiber surface. The ZnO nanocrystals are uniformly dispersed on the outer and inner walls of cotton fibers, demonstrating excellent durability in wastewater treatments. Moreover, the photocatalytic performance of functional fibers is optimized by doping Ag nanoparticles to improve degradation efficiency. This can extend the prospect of further applications of developed ZnO/fibers in optoelectronics, spintronics, and provide inspiration for recycling and upgrading of used garments.

Abstract Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) hold great promise for cell‐based therapies, disease modeling, and drug discovery. Classic somatic cell reprogramming to generate induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) is often achieved based on overexpression of transcription factors (TFs). However, this process is limited by side effect of overexpressed TFs and unpredicted targeting of TFs. Pinpoint control over endogenous TFs expression can provide the ability to reprogram cell fate and tissue function. Here, a light‐inducible cell reprogramming (LIRE) system is developed based on a photoreceptor protein cryptochrome system and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/nuclease‐deficient CRISPR‐associated protein 9 for induced PSCs reprogramming. This system enables remote, non‐invasive optogenetical regulation of endogenous Sox2 and Oct4 loci to reprogram mouse embryonic fibroblasts into iPSCs (iPSCLIRE) under light‐emitting diode‐based illumination. iPSCLIRE cells can be efficiently differentiated into different cells by upregulating a corresponding TF. iPSCLIRE cells are used for blastocyst injection and optogenetic chimeric mice are successfully generated, which enables non‐invasive control of user‐defined endogenous genes in vivo, providing a valuable tool for facile and traceless controlled gene expression studies and genetic screens in mice. This LIRE system offers a remote, traceless, and non‐invasive approach for cellular reprogramming and modeling of complex human diseases in basic biological research and regenerative medicine applications.

Abstract Aerosol effects on convective precipitation is critical for understanding human impacts on extreme weather and the hydrological cycle. However, even their signs and magnitude remain debatable. In particular, aerosol effects on vertical structure of precipitation have not been systematically examined yet. Combining 6‐year space‐borne and ground‐based observations over the North China Plain, we show a boomerang‐shape aerosol effect on the top height of convective precipitation, from invigoration to suppression. Further analyses reveal that the aerosols play distinct effects on precipitation rate at different layers. Particularly, near surface precipitation rate shows no significant responses to aerosol and precipitation‐top height due to strong evaporation. The competition of energy between released from condensation and freezing and absorbed by evaporation contributes to different responses of precipitation‐top height to aerosol and can explain the boomerang‐shape aerosol effect.

Abstract We describe the case of a 58‐year‐old woman who was presented with pancytopenia and hypofibrinogenemia. Treatment with iron supplementation was not satisfactory. Physical findings and a history of a massive postpartum hemorrhage suggested Sheehan's syndrome(SS). After thyroxine and glucocorticoid replacement therapy, the blood cell count improved. SS is a rare etiology of hemocytopenia, of which hematologists need to be aware. We conclude that hormonal therapy can produce full hematological recovery.

ABSTRACT Importance In cases of epiblepharon with lower eyelid retraction secondary to glaucoma, correcting epiblepharon alone is ineffective. Combined surgery should be performed to obtain satisfactory outcomes. Objective To investigate outcomes after surgery to correct epiblepharon with lower eyelid retraction secondary to buphthalmos in children. Methods A retrospective analysis of six eyes in four patients was performed included lower lid retractor recession combined with marginal rotation with tarsal fixation. The margin reflex distance‐2, lagophthalmus, resolution of clinical symptoms, and complications were assessed during 6 to 12 months of follow‐up. Results In all cases, epiblepharon and lagophthalmus were corrected, symptoms of photophobia and epiphora were relieved, and the corneal epithelium was repaired. The margin reflex distance‐2 decreased and remained normal during the follow‐up period, but slightly regressed within 6 months postoperatively. Interpretation Epiblepharon caused by buphthalmos in children is often associated with lower eyelid retraction. Lower lid retractor recession combined with marginal rotation with tarsal fixation fundamentally solves the problems of high eyelid tension, lower eyelid retraction, and epiblepharon and reduces the recurrence rate.

Abstract Lung cancer has become a leading cause of cancer‐related deaths. With the conventional use of low‐dose spiral computed tomography (CT) in physical examinations, an increasing number of small pulmonary nodules are screened. However, primary pulmonary meningiomas (PPMs) are rarely reported. Here, we report the case of a 64‐year‐old woman who had a CT scan during physical examination, which revealed three ground‐glass‐like opacity pulmonary nodules in both lungs. The patient underwent video‐assisted thoracoscopic wedge resection of the right upper and lower lobes. Paraffin sections revealed pulmonary meningothelial‐like and collagenous nodules in the right upper and lower lobes which stained as follows: EMA+, VIM+, SMA‐, S‐100‐, CD34‐, STAT6‐, Ki‐67+ (2%), and CgA‐. Primary pulmonary meningiomas (PPMs) were finally diagnosed. PPM is a kind of rare and benign tumor. Surgery can provide a precise pathological examination, and patients can achieve an excellent prognosis after surgical resection.

Abstract Plant growth and crop harvest are impacted by both climate change and air pollution. However, their relative importance in crop yields remains elusive, especially in heavily polluted regions. Here we develop crop yield prediction models, based on a large volume of historical crop data, as well as climate and pollution records in China since 1980. A long‐term surface ozone concentration data set is developed from a machine‐learning model and various observations. An assessment of four climate and pollution factors reveals the critical role of particulate and ozone pollution in regulating interannual variations of crop yields in China. During 2010–2018, we find that the particulate pollution mitigation outweighs the negative impacts of concurrent climate change, resulting in 0.5%–1.9% net yield increases nationwide, despite of the ozone increases in the North China Plain. Looking to the future, the impacts of climate change, particularly from surface temperature increase, will dominate over pollution factors and profoundly reduce future maize and rice yields by 0.6 to 2.8% 10 yr−1 by 2050. Our findings call for attention on the threat to future global food security from the absence of pollution mitigation and the persistence of global warming.

Abstract The interface structure of the electrode is closely related to the electrochemical performance of lithium‐metal batteries (LMBs). In particular, a high‐quality solid electrode interface (SEI) and uniform, dense lithium plating/stripping processes play a key role in achieving stable LMBs. Herein, a LiF‐rich SEI and a uniform and dense plating/stripping process of the electrolyte by reducing the electrolyte concentration without changing the solvation structure, thereby avoiding the high cost and poor wetting properties of high‐concentration electrolytes are achieved. The ultra‐low concentration electrolyte with an unchanged Li+ solvation structure can restrain the inhomogeneous diffusion flux of Li+, thereby achieving more uniform lithium deposition and stripping processes while maintaining a LiF‐rich SEI. The LiIICu battery with this electrolyte exhibits enhanced cycling stability for 1000 cycles with a coulombic efficiency of 99% at 1 mA cm–2 and 1 mAh cm–2. For the LiIILiFePO4 pouch cell, the capacity retention values at 0.5 and 1 C are 98.6% and 91.4%, respectively. This study offers a new perspective for the commercial application of low‐cost electrolytes with ultra‐low concentrations and high concentration effects.

Abstract Cervical cancer is the fourth highest mortality cancer among women worldwide. Many researchers have discovered the major anticancer role of miR‐192‐5p. However, no study has revealed the effect of miR‐192‐5p on cervical cancer and its molecular mechanism. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to explore the role of miR‐192‐5p in proliferation, invasion of cervical cancer, and its regulatory mechanism. Firstly, the expression level of miR‐192‐5p was examined by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Cell counting kit‐8 analysis was applied to detect the proliferation of transfected Caski and SiHa cells. Flow cytometry assay was applied to detect the apoptosis of transfected Caski and SiHa cells. Our result showed that miR‐192‐5p restrained cervical cancer cell proliferation and induced apoptosis. Then we employed wound healing and transwell assays to analyze the migration and invasion abilities of Caski and SiHa cells in vitro. The results showed that miR‐192‐5p had an inhibitory effect on cervical cancer migration and invasion. The results of in vivo experiment demonstrated that miR‐192‐5p also inhibited tumor development in nude mice. We further detected that the binding of transient receptor potential melastatin‐subfamily member 7 (TRPM7) to miR‐192‐5p using bioinformatic methods and dual‐luciferase reporter assay. Finally, we found that TRPM7 overexpression reversed the inhibitory effects of miR‐192‐5p on proliferation, migration, and invasion on cervical cancer cells. In conclusion, the findings of the present study revealed that miR‐192‐5p performs an inhibitory role in cervical cancer proliferation and invasion by targeting TRPM7.

Abstract Power transformers play a vital role in power transmission systems from the energy source to the consumption center. In situ diagnostics of the performance of power transformers provides a variety of benefits to ensure reliable electricity transmission. Immunity to electromagnetic interference, high sensitivity, high insulation as well as small dimensions of optical sensing make it very attractive for applications in power transformer monitoring. This paper presents a critical review of various diagnostic methods for power transformers such as partial discharge, dissolved gases, temperature and other important sensing, and optical detection. The advantages and disadvantages of different monitoring methods are carefully discussed and assessed. Finally, the existing technical barriers and future prospects of optical monitoring methods for power transformers are presented.

Abstract Background Immune checkpoint inhibitors directed against programmed cell death 1 (PDCD1/PD1) receptor and programmed cell death‐ligand 1 (CD274/PD‐L1) have been recently successfully implemented for the treatment of many cancers, but the response rate of tumour patients is still limited due to intrinsic and acquired resistances. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of this limited response have still to be defined in detail. The aim of this study is to uncover processes inhibiting PDCD1/CD274 expression thereby enhancing anti‐tumour immune responses. The identification and characterization of microRNAs (miRNAs) targeting the 3′‐untranslated region (3′‐UTR) as well as the coding sequence (CDS) of CD274 will provide the basis for a new drug development. Methods Human melanoma cell lines and tissue samples were subjected to mRNA and/or protein expression analysis using qPCR, Western blot, flow cytometry, and/or immunohistochemistry. The data were correlated to clinical parameters. MiRNA trapping by RNA in vitro affinity purification (miTRAP) technology in combination with small RNA sequencing and different bioinformatics tools were employed to identify CD274‐regulating miRNAs. Results Screening based on miTRAP in combination with RNAseq identified a large number of novel CD274‐regulating candidate miRNAs, from which eight selected miRNAs were functionally validated. Five out of eight miRNAs were able to significantly reduce CD274 surface expression indicating that these miRNAs directly bind to the 3′‐UTR or CDS of the CD274 gene. The miRNA‐mediated inhibition of CD274 expression was accompanied by an increased T cell recognition. Furthermore, an inverse expression of three CD274‐regulating miRNAs and CD274 was demonstrated in melanoma lesions. A CD274 miRNA score was generated, which was associated with disease progression and reduced survival of melanoma patients. Conclusions These data revealed a novel mechanism that miRNAs targeting the CDS of immune checkpoint genes are functional, have prognostic relevance, and also the potential for the development of novel miRNA‐based therapies.

Abstract Background CITED4 belongs to the CBP/p300‐interacting transactivator with glutamic acid and aspartic acid‐rich tail (CITED) family which is induced by various cytokines and participates in cytokine‐induced proliferation and differentiation. CITED4 is induced by HB‐EGF in lung cancer cells. However, it is unclear whether and how CITED4 contributes to the invasion and metastasis of lung adenocarcinoma (ADC). Methods CITED4 expression in lung adenocarcinoma and its association with disease‐free survival (DFS) and overall survival were analyzed based on a cohort of 261 patients. The roles of CITED4 were validated via loss‐of‐function and gain‐of‐function experiments. The relationship between CITED4 and CLDN3 was validated by immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and luciferase reporter assays. The function of the CITED4‐CTNNB1‐CLDN3 complex was fully validated and described. Results CITED4 expression was significantly upregulated in ADC tissues and cells and a predictor for DFS. Downregulation of CITED4 attenuated the proliferation and invasion, whereas CITED4 overexpression enhanced these effects. Overexpression and knockdown of CITED4 resulted in the upregulation and downregulation of CLDN3, respectively. Moreover, CITED4 downregulation suppressed CLDN3‐mediated ADC cell metastasis in vivo. CITED4 was highly expressed and positively correlated with CLDN3. Mechanistically, CITED4 interacted with CTNNB1 and functioned synergistically to enhance CLDN3 transcription. Importantly, CITED4 induced ADC invasion via a CLDN3‐dependent pathway. CITED4 determined the level of CLDN3, which in turn affected the sensitivity of tumors to Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin treatment. Conclusions The CITED4‐CTNNB1‐CLDN3 axis plays a key role in the invasion and metastasis of ADC and provides a novel therapeutic target for lung cancer treatment.

Objectives To compare the clinical outcomes of anterior controllable antedisplacement fusion (ACAF), a new surgical technique, with laminoplasty for the treatment of multilevel severe cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) based on a 2‐year follow‐up. Methods Clinical data of 53 patients (21 by ACAF and 32 by laminoplasty) who have accepted surgery for treatment of cervical myelopathy caused by multilevel severe OPLL (occupying rate ≥ 50%) from March 2015 to March 2017 were retrospectively reviewed and compared between ACAF group and laminoplasty group. Operative time, blood loss, and complications of the two groups were recorded. Radiographic parameters were evaluated pre‐ and postoperatively: cervical lordosis on X‐ray, space available for the cord (SAC) and the occupying ratio (OR) on computed tomography (CT), and the anteroposterior (AP) diameter of the spinal cord at the narrowest level and the spinal cord curvature on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scoring was used to evaluate neurologic recovery. Statistical analysis was conducted to analyze the differences between two groups. The Mann–Whitney U test and chi square test were used to compare categorical variables. unpaired t test was used to compare continuous data. Results All patients were followed up for at least 24 months. The operative time was longer in ACAF group (286.5 vs 178.2 min, P 0.05). Less complications were observed in ACAF group than in laminoplasty group (one case [4.7%] of C5 palsy and one case [4.7%] of cerebrospinal fluid [CSF] leakage in ACAF group; four cases [12.5%] of C5 palsy, two cases [6.3%] of CSF leakage, and four cases [12.5%] of axial symptoms in laminoplasty group). The mean JOA score at last follow‐up (14.6 vs 12.8, P

Objective To propose a novel technique of free‐hand pedicle screw placement in cervicothoracic spine (snake‐eye method) and evaluate the preliminary effects and safety in clinical practice. Methods This is a retrospective study and we defined the period of this study as from December 2017 to April 2019 in our institution. Forty patients were included in this study who underwent cervicothoracic internal fixation in our hospital, and all patients undergoing implantation of 200 pedicle screws were divided into two groups. Twenty‐two patients (108 screws) had screw placement using traditional method, while 18 patients (92 screws) had screw placement using snake‐eye method. To reduce the possible selection bias, the patients we recruited in this study was originally performed on by one radiological doctor who was blind to the objective of this study. Patient demographics, including patient age, sex, obesity, smoking, and hypertension, were evaluated to figure out baseline differences between groups. Medical information was recorded including time, accuracy, and immediate (within 30 days after surgery) postoperative complications of pedicle screw placement (including pulmonary embolism or other thromboembolic events, surgical site infection, neurovascular injury, and mortality). Results There were 24 males and 16 females, with an average age of 52.2 years (range, 24–77). Finally, a total of 200 screws were successfully inserted in these patients, including fifteen patients with four pedicle screws, four patients with six screws, three patients with eight screws in traditional method group, and 12 patients with four pedicle screws, two patients with six screws, four patients with eight screws in snake‐eye method group. Patient demographic and comparison of two surgery methods are shown in Tables 1 and 2. The data baselines of the two groups were comparable because no impact of the two groups on population characteristics was demonstrated in the presented experiment. Also, we noticed that time and accuracy of the two groups were different with statistical significance at the level of P = 0.05. We observed that immediate (within 30 days after surgery) postoperative complications, including pulmonary embolism (PE), surgical site infection (SSI), neurovascular injury (NI), and mortality, in the two groups did not differ. Conclusion This study highlights a safe and effective technique for pedicle screw placement in cervicothoracic spine named snake‐eye method, and this technique may be particularly useful in emergency conditions with limited resources.

Abstract Electrochemical water splitting has attracted considerable attention for the production of hydrogen fuel by using renewable energy resources. However, the sluggish reaction kinetics make it essential to explore precious‐metal‐free electrocatalysts with superior activity and long‐term stability. Tremendous efforts have been made in exploring electrocatalysts to reduce the energy barriers and improve catalytic efficiency. This review summarizes different categories of precious‐metal‐free electrocatalysts developed in the past 5 years for alkaline water splitting. The design strategies for optimizing the electronic and geometric structures of electrocatalysts with enhanced catalytic performance are discussed, including composition modulation, defect engineering, and structural engineering. Particularly, the advancement of operando/in situ characterization techniques toward the understanding of structural evolution, reaction intermediates, and active sites during the water splitting process are summarized. Finally, current challenges and future perspectives toward achieving efficient catalyst systems for industrial applications are proposed. This review will provide insights and strategies to the design of precious‐metal‐free electrocatalysts and inspire future research in alkaline water splitting.