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The multidepot vehicle scheduling problem (MDVSP) is a fundamental public transport challenge. To address the large‐scale model and inherent solution symmetry associated with the traditional trip‐to‐trip connection‐based approach for MDVSP, a new trip‐to‐route (T2R) connection‐based approach is proposed. Considering real‐world problem characteristics with numerous trips sharing common origin–destination stations and travel times on one route, this approach aggregates same vehicle possible trip sequences into a T2R connection. Two time‐space network aggregation (TSNA) flow formulation versions, route pair‐based TSNA and station pair‐based TSNA, were constructed. Furthermore, TSNA equivalence under any given decomposition strategy, including first‐in‐first‐out, with the multicommodity network flow (MCNF) model was demonstrated. Given the favorable separable TSNA structure, an alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM)‐based procedure is proposed to decompose the MDVSP into multiple subproblems that can be linearized and readily solved using commercial solvers. The quality of the solutions was assessed using lower bounds obtained from the Lagrangian relaxation problem. The effectiveness and superiority of the proposed MDVSP models and algorithms were subsequently confirmed using random data sets and real‐world instances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Abnormal glycosylation is associated with tumors. The clinical value of serum glycans in assessing progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients remains a challenge. Methods: A study dynamically comparing levels of fifteen lectin‐specific glycans between preoperative and postoperative serum of 65 HCC patients was conducted via lectin biochip technology. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to address associations between serum glycan levels and clinicopathological characteristics. Kaplan–Meier analysis was used to evaluate the impacts of serum glycan levels on overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) of the HCC patients. Results: HCC patients presented significantly higher levels of the lectin‐specific glycans in preoperative serum than disease‐free individuals (p < 0.001 − p = 0.029), except ConA. The glycans in preoperative sera were significantly related to tumor size, pTNM, metastasis, BCLC stage, portal hypertension (PHT), and platelet count (PLT), respectively (p < 0.05). Multivariate logistic analyses indicated that tumor size and pTNM independently impact on glycan‐specific lectins either LTL, UEA‐I, VVL, NPL, WGA, PNA, MAL‐I, SNA, or PHA‐L (p = 0.003 − p = 0.044); BCLC stage and PLT were independent factors influencing the serum glycans recognizable DSA (p = 0.024) and SNA (p = 0.050), respectively. Surgical excision of tumor mass significantly reduced glycan levels in sera. Tumor differentiation, albumin, and ABO type significantly revealed independent influence on glycan‐specific lectins, such as RCA‐I (p = 0.024), VVL (p = 0.024), and Con A (p = 0.026) in the postoperative serum. HCC patients with high levels of VVL‐binding glycans significantly benefited from a longer OS time (p = 0.016, HR: 0.460, 95% CI: 0.237–0.892) and a better PFS time (p = 0.004; HR: 0.435, 95% CI: 0.237–0.799), respectively. Conclusion: Serum glycans could reflect surgical outcomes in at‐risk patients and become valuable biomarkers in evaluating the progression of HCC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Perioperative neurocognitive disorders (PND), including postoperative delirium (POD) and postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD), are common following anesthesia and surgery in older patients and significantly increase morbidity and mortality. However, the underlying mechanism of PND is unclear. Our study aims to analyze the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in excitatory neurons and investigate the role of hippocampal glutamatergic synaptic alterations in sevoflurane‐induced cognitive dysfunction in aged mice. Methods: We performed single‐nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA‐seq) technology to examine the alterations of excitatory neurons in hippocampus induced by sevoflurane in aged mice. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis of DEGs were performed in excitatory neurons. At last, immunofluorescence staining was used to validate sevoflurane‐induced alternation of glutamatergic synapses in the hippocampus of aged mice. Results: This study demonstrates that DEGs in excitatory neurons are associated with reduction of glutamatergic synapses and cognitive dysfunction. After immunofluorescence staining validation, we also confirmed that sevoflurane anesthesia decreased the density of glutamatergic synapses in the hippocampus of aged mice. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrated a key role of hippocampal glutamatergic synaptic alterations in sevoflurane‐induced cognitive dysfunction in aged mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to evaluate six novel lymphocyte‐based inflammatory markers (neutrophil‐lymphocyte ratio, monocyte‐lymphocyte ratio, platelet‐lymphocyte ratio [PLR], systemic immune inflammation index [SII], systemic inflammatory response index, and systemic immune inflammation response index [SIIRI]) in patients with newly diagnosed coronary artery disease [CAD]. Methods: A total of 959 patients newly diagnosed with CAD and underwent diagnostic coronary angiography were enrolled in this study and followed for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), including cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, and nonfatal stroke. The best cutoff value was used to compare the six indicators. Cox risk regression analysis evaluated the relationship between novel lymphocyte‐based inflammatory markers and MACEs in newly diagnosed CAD patients. Results: During a mean follow‐up period of 33.3 ± 9.9 months, 229 (23.9%) MACEs were identified. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that only SIIRI (hazard ratio [HR]: 5.853; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.092–8.371; p <.001) and PLR (HR: 1.725; 95% CI: 1.214–2.452; p =.002) were independent predictors of MACEs. Nevertheless, following the adjustment for covariates, only the SIIRI was found to be a significant predictor MACEs and its corresponding specific endpoint occurrences. The predictive ability of the model was improved when six different inflammatory markers were added to the basic model established by traditional risk factors, namely, the C‐index increased, and the SIIRI increased most significantly (AUC: 0.778; 95% CI: 0.743–0.812; p <.001). However, among the six novel inflammatory markers, only SIIRI had improved net reclassification improvement (NRI) and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) (NRI: 0.187; 95% CI: 0.115–0.259, p <.001. IDI: 0.135; 95% CI: 0.111–0.159, p <.001), which was superior to the basic model established by traditional risk factors. Conclusions: SIIRI is independent predictor of MACEs in newly diagnosed CAD patients. SIIRI was superior to other measures in predicting MACEs. The combination of SIIRI and traditional risk factors can more accurately predict MACEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rocking‐chair configurations based on advanced anodes with reliable zinc‐ion storage can intrinsically avoid the deterioration of flexible zinc‐ion energy devices by corrosion, dendrites, and inadequate mechanical stability of zinc metal, yet the identification of durable anode materials is still challenging. Herein, the first reported conversion‐type Cu2‐xSe is proposed as an ultra‐stable anode for flexible rocking‐chair aqueous zinc‐ion batteries. Differing from these well‐recognized intercalation‐type copper selenide anodes, the unique Cu2‐xSe structure features a preferred thermodynamic deep transformation path, and the high‐reversible conversion reaction is fully illuminated by in situ synchrotron X‐ray diffraction and substantial ex situ characterization, demonstrating an outstanding performance combination of high capacity (150 mAh g−1 at 0.5 A g−1) and record‐high stability (91% capacity retention after 20 000 cycles at 5 A g−1 in Cu2‐xSe||ZnxMnO2 full cells). Consequently, fiber‐shaped batteries using Cu2‐xSe as the anode are successfully assembled and exhibited an ultra‐long life (89.8% capacity retention after 900 cycles) and extraordinary flexibility (98% capacity retention after 4500 cycles of bending), far exceeding those of representative flexible batteries previously reported. The findings provide novel insights into the energy storage mechanism of copper selenides and, as an elegant forerunner, offer a plausible path for the development of rocking‐chair flexible aqueous zinc‐ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Machine learning algorithms as a research tool, including traditional machine learning and deep learning, are increasingly applied to the field of urodynamics. However, no studies have evaluated how to select appropriate algorithm models for different urodynamic research tasks. Methods: We undertook a narrative review evaluating how the published literature reports the applications of machine learning in urodynamics. We searched PubMed up to December 2023, limited to the English language. We selected the following search terms: artificial intelligence, machine learning, deep learning, urodynamics, and lower urinary tract symptoms. We identified three domains for assessment in advance of commencing the review. These were the applications of urodynamic studies examination, applications of diagnoses of dysfunction related to urodynamics, and applications of prognosis prediction. Results: The machine learning algorithm applied in the field of urodynamics can be mainly divided into three aspects, which are urodynamic examination, diagnosis of urinary tract dysfunction and prediction of the efficacy of various treatment methods. Most of these studies were single‐center retrospective studies, lacking external validation, requiring further validation of model generalization ability, and insufficient sample size. The relevant research in this field is still in the preliminary exploration stage; there are few high‐quality multi‐center clinical studies, and the performance of various models still needs to be further optimized, and there is still a distance from clinical application. Conclusions: At present, there is no research to summarize and analyze the machine learning algorithms applied in the field of urodynamics. The purpose of this review is to summarize and classify the machine learning algorithms applied in this field and to guide researchers to select the appropriate algorithm model for different task requirements to achieve the best results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Cancer is a leading cause of global childhood mortality, affecting 400,000 children annually. While treatable with modern therapies, children living in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) have limited access to care and lower survival rates. Hospital‐based cancer registries (HBCRs) collect detailed patient information to critically evaluate and evolve care. The St. Jude Global Childhood Cancer Analytics Resource and Epidemiological Surveillance System (SJCARES) is a cloud‐based HBCR network facilitating quality data collection of pediatric cancer. Wide variation in the success of implementation has warranted further research into the implementation approach, to create a sustainable and adaptable HBCR in LMICs. Methods: Seven of 89 sites using the SJCARES registry were selected, stratified by global region and stage of implementation. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with key groups (clinicians, administrators, data clerks) using an interview guide developed from the Consolidation Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). Interviews were conducted via a video‐telephone software program and transcribed by a transcription service. Transcripts were thematically coded using rapid qualitative analysis. Results: A total of 18 participants (11 clinicians, 4 administrators, 3 data clerks) were interviewed. Several barrier themes were identified, including: difficulty integrating the registry into existing workflow; lack of resources; lack of government or administrative support; and damaged, misplaced, or illegible medical records. Facilitator themes were identified, including: internal support for the registry; clear and extensive training; and dedicated support staff. Conclusion: Interviewed participants identified key barriers and facilitators to the implementation of the SJCARES registry across multiple phases. We plan to use these results to develop targeted implementation strategies including a readiness assessment tool to help guide more successful implementation of the SJCARES registry and other HBCRs in LMICs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent advancements in deformable image registration (DIR) have seen the emergence of supervised and unsupervised deep learning techniques. However, supervised methods are limited by the quality of deformation vector fields (DVFs), while unsupervised approaches often yield suboptimal results due to their reliance on indirect dissimilarity metrics. Moreover, both methods struggle to effectively model long‐range dependencies. This study proposes a novel DIR method that integrates the advantages of supervised and unsupervised learning and tackle issues related to long‐range dependencies, thereby improving registration results. Specifically, we propose a DVF generation diffusion model to enhance DVFs diversity, which could be used to facilitate the integration of supervised and unsupervised learning approaches. This fusion allows the method to leverage the benefits of both paradigms. Furthermore, a multi‐scale frequency‐weighted denoising module is integrated to enhance DVFs generation quality and improve the registration accuracy. Additionally, we propose a novel MambaReg network that adeptly manages long‐range dependencies, further optimizing registration outcomes. Experimental evaluation of four public data sets demonstrates that our method outperforms several state‐of‐the‐art techniques based on either supervised or unsupervised learning. Qualitative and quantitative comparisons highlight the superior performance of our approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anticipating the postoperative pathological stage and potential for adverse features of prostate cancer (PCa) patients before radical prostatectomy (RP) is crucial for guiding perioperative treatment. Methods: A cohort consisting of three sub‐cohorts with a total of 709 patients has been enlisted from two major tertiary medical centres in China. The primary assessment parameters for adverse pathological features in this study are the pathological T stage, the AJCC prognostic stage groups and perineural invasion (PNI). Logistic regression analyses were performed to investigate the relationship between prostate specific antigen (PSA), its derivatives (incluing Prostate Health Index, phi and phi density, phiD), and the pathological outcomes after RP. Results: Both phi and phiD showed a significant association with pathologic T stage of pT3 or above (phi, adjusted OR, AOR = 2.82, 95% confidence interval, 95% CI: 1.88–4.23, p < 0.001; phiD, AOR = 2.47, 95% CI: 1.76–3.48, p < 0.001) and PNI (phi, AOR = 2.15, 95% CI: 1.39–3.32, p < 0.001; phiD, AOR = 1.94, 95% CI: 1.38–2.73, p < 0.001). In a subgroup analysis with a total PSA value <10 ng/mL, phi and phiD continued to show a significant correlation with pT3 or above (phi, AOR = 4.70, 95% CI: 1.29–17.12, p = 0.019; phiD, AOR = 3.44, 95% CI: 1.51–7.85, p = 0.003), and phiD also maintained its predictive capability for PNI in this subgroup (AOR = 2.10, 95% CI: 1.17–3.80, p = 0.014). Sensitivity analysis indicated that the findings in the combined cohort are mainly influenced by one of the sub‐cohorts, partially attributable to disparities in sample sizes between sub‐cohorts. Combined analysis of phi(D) and multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) data yielded similar results. Conclusions: Preoperative measurement of serum phi and phiD is valuable for predicting the occurrence of adverse pathological features in Chinese PCa patients after RP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: The use of small airway parameters generated by spirometry, namely forced expiratory flow between 25% and 75% of forced vital capacity (FVC) (FEF25%–75%) and forced expiratory flow at 50% and 75% of FVC (FEF50% and FEF75%, respectively), is widely discussed. We evaluated the importance of these spirometric parameters in a large Chinese population. Methods: We conducted a cross‐sectional observational study in which spirometry and bronchodilator responsiveness (BDR) data were collected in a healthcare centre from May 2021 to August 2022 and in a tertiary hospital from January 2017 to March 2022. Discordance was assessed between the classification of test results by the large airway parameters of forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and FEV1/FVC ratio and by the small airway parameters of FEF25%–75%, FEF75% and FEF50%. The predictive power of Z‐scores of spirometric parameters for airflow limitation and BDR was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curves. Results: Our study included 26,658 people. Among people with a normal FVC (n = 14,688), 3.7%, 4.5% and 3.6% of cases exhibited normal FEV1/FVC ratio but impaired FEF25%–75%, FEF75% and FEF50%, respectively, while 6.8%–7.0% of people exhibited normal FEV1 but impaired FEF25%–75%, FEF75% and FEF50%. Using the Z‐scores of combining both large and small airway parameters in spirometry showed the best area under the curve for predicting airflow limitation (0.90; 95% CI 0.87–0.94) and predicting BDR (0.72; 95% CI 0.71–0.73). Conclusion: It is important to consider both large and small airway parameters in spirometry to avoid missing a diagnosis of airflow obstruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reinforcement learning (RL) is one important branch of artificial intelligence (AI), which intuitively imitates the learning style of human beings. It is commonly derived from solving game playing problems and is extensively used for decision‐making, control and optimization problems. It has been extensively applied for solving complicated problems with the property of Markov decision‐making processes. With data accumulation and comprehensive analysis, researchers are not only satisfied with predicting the results for experimental systems but also hope to design or control them for the sake of obtaining the desired properties or functions. RL is potentially facilitated to solve a large number of complicated biological and chemical problems, because they could be decomposed into multi‐step decision‐making process. In practice, substantial progress has been made in the application of RL to the field of biomedicine. In this paper, we will first give a brief description about RL, including its definition, basic theory and different type of methods. Then we will review some detailed applications in various domains, for example, molecular design, reaction planning, molecular simulation and etc. In the end, we will summarize the essentialities of RL approaches to solve more diverse problems compared with other machine learning methods and also outlook the possible trends to overcome their limitations in the future. This article is categorized under:Data Science > ChemoinformaticsData Science > Computer Algorithms and ProgrammingData Science > Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri, is the primary vector of the HLB pathogen, Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas). The acquisition of CLas shortens the developmental period of nymphs, accelerating the emergence into adulthood and thereby facilitating the spread of CLas. Cuticular proteins (CPs) are involved in insect emergence. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying CLas‐promoted emergence in D. citri via CP mediation. Here, a total of 159 CP genes were first identified in the D. citri genome. Chromosomal location analysis revealed an uneven distribution of these CP genes across the 13 D. citri chromosomes. Proteomic analysis identified 54 differentially expressed CPs during D. citri emergence, with 14 CPs exhibiting significant differential expression after CLas acquisition. Five key genes, Dc18aa‐1, Dc18aa‐2, DcCPR‐24, DcCPR‐38 and DcCPR‐58, were screened from the proteome and CLas acquisition. The silencing of these 5 genes through a modified feeding method significantly reduced the emergence rate and caused various abnormal phenotypes, indicating the crucial role that these genes play in D. citri emergence. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the role of CPs in D. citri and reveals that CLas can influence the emergence process of D. citri by regulating the expression of CPs. These key CPs may serve as potential targets for future research on controlling huanglongbing (HLB) transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dynamic measurement of position and attitude information of a long‐distance moving object is a common demand in ground testing of aerospace engineering. Due to the movement from far to near and the limitations of camera resolution, it is necessary to use multi‐binocular cameras for segmented observation at different distances. However, achieving accurate and continuous position and attitude estimation is a challenging task. Therefore, this paper proposes a dynamic monitoring technique for long‐distance movement based on a multi‐binocular videogrammetric system. Aiming to solve the problem that the scale in images changes constantly during the moving process, a scale‐adaptive tracking method of circular targets is presented. Bundle adjustment (BA) with joint segments using an adaptive‐weighting least‐squares strategy is developed to enhance the measurement accuracy. The feasibility and reliability of the proposed technique are validated by a ground testing of relative measurement for spacecraft rendezvous and docking. The experimental results indicate that the proposed technique can obtain the actual motion state of the moving object, with a positioning accuracy of 3.2 mm (root mean square error), which can provide a reliable third‐party verification for on‐orbit measurement systems in ground testing. Compared with the results of BA with individual segments and vision measurement software PhotoModeler, the accuracy is improved by 45% and 30%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, soft actuators have received extensive attention in many application fields, among which hydrogels have become an important choice for constructing soft actuators due to their unique properties. However, the actuating behaviors of hydrogel‐based actuators are usually monotonous due to their unchangeable shapes and structures. Herein, we report a temperature‐responsive hydrogel actuator with a bilayer structure. Based on the dual network structure (polyvinyl alcohol/poly acrylamide and polyvinyl alcohol/poly (N‐isopropylacrylamide), the actuators can realize the reinforcement compared with the single network. Because of the intrinsic lower critical solution temperature of poly (N‐isopropylacrylamide, both sides of actuators have different swelling rates, enabling them to achieve the thermal‐responsive actuation and shape programming. Therefore, this work is promising to provide a new strategy for designing temperature switches and thermally driven soft robots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All provinces of China respond to the central government, predict future carbon dioxide emissions, and formulate action plans detailing how the province intends to fulfill its target of carbon emission peaking before 2030. Based on the bottom‐up energy consumption prediction and top‐down goal verification, this paper constructs a set of regional carbon dioxide emission prediction methods. Compared to the traditional bottom‐up prediction method, this method could simplify the parameters while improving the prediction accuracy. This model is used to predict and analyze the process of carbon dioxide emission peaking in Zhejiang. The results show that the mean absolute percentage error of the retrospective prediction value is only 1.56%. Zhejiang will reach carbon dioxide emission peaking around 2029–2030, and the peak value will be 569.7 million tons. Different factors have different effects on the process of carbon dioxide emission peaking. There is a strong correlation between the peak time of carbon dioxide emission and the production time of major energy‐consuming projects in Zhejiang. Meanwhile, if the 16 nuclear reactors are not put into operation, Zhejiang will not be able to achieve the goal of carbon dioxide emission peaking. Besides, the basic data used in this model is mainly from the local statistical departments of the region. Thus, it can be applied to other provinces and regions conveniently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conversion‐type tellurium‐based cathodes have attracted great attention in aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs) due to potentially high capacity with impressive Te4+/Te0/Te2− conversion. However, impeded by the low‐conductivity Te4+ species and unpreferred kinetics, realizing deep zinc‐tellurium redox remains a major challenge. Herein, energetic NiTe2 nanosheets are first proposed and implemented as preprepared tellurium‐based deep redox cathodes in AZIBs with accelerated electron transport and favorable kinetics. Operando synchrotron X‐ray diffraction and comprehensive ex situ characterizations demonstrate that Te4+ species from direct oxidation of NiTe2 in dilute mild‐aqueous electrolyte undergo a thermodynamic two‐step TeO2→Te→ZnTe discharge process, while the intertwined tellurium oxides and high‐conductivity nickel monomers derived in situ from NiTe2 nanosheets promote a kinetics‐preferred one‐step ZnTe→TeO2 charging conversion with significantly boosted reversibility. Therefore, a high capacity of 510 mAh g−1 at 50 mA g−1 and 93% capacity retention over 400 cycles at 2000 mA g−1 are established. Operando pH tracking and electrode‐electrolyte engineering analyses define that the mild electrolyte environment rich in moisture and electrode conductivity optimization are both critical for achieving reversible tellurium deep redox conversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low‐light images pose a challenge due to their compressed dynamic range, often resulting in loss of detail. To address this, enhancement techniques are evolving, aiming to better represent these images on modern displays. In this paper, we propose a novel algorithm that utilizes two cascaded neural networks to adjust image illumination effectively. Our approach begins with the first architecture, which employs 2D separable convolutional layers, ReLU, and sigmoid functions to extract essential features from RGB images. Subsequently, the second architecture, a U‐ shaped network, hierarchically adjusts image illumination, particularly in low‐light conditions. A significant contribution of our method lies in its ability to process low‐illumination images efficiently using a simpler, lightweight neural network architecture. This characteristic is crucial for its implementation in application‐specific integrated circuits for edge devices, as it reduces the number of trainable parameters, thus facilitating integer inference. We validate our approach using the widely used LOw‐Light (LOL) dataset, containing 500 pairs of low‐light and normal‐light images. Through experimentation, we demonstrate the efficacy of our method in adjusting brightness. Furthermore, we discuss the feasibility of hardware implementation, particularly emphasizing the suitability for designing very large‐ scale integration circuits on System‐on‐Chip (SOC) platforms. This is made possible by leveraging integer‐based matrix operations and implementing appropriate data rounding techniques to handle overflow computations effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To explore the potential causal links between obesity, type 2 diabetes (T2D), and lifestyle choices (such as smoking, alcohol and coffee consumption, and vigorous physical activity) on stress urinary incontinence (SUI), this study employs a Mendelian Randomization approach. This research aims to clarify these associations, which have been suggested but not conclusively established in prior observational studies. Methods: Genetic instruments associated with the exposures at the genome‐wide significance (p < 5 × 10−8) were selected from corresponding genome‐wide association studies. Summary‐level data for SUI, was obtained from the UK Biobank. A two‐sample MR analysis was employed to estimate causal effects, utilizing the inverse‐variance weighted (IVW) method as the primary analytical approach. Complementary sensitivity analyses including MR‐PRESSO, MR‐Egger, and weighted median methods were performed. The horizontal pleiotropy was detected by using MR‐Egger intercept and MR‐PRESSO methods, and the heterogeneity was assessed using Cochran's Q statistics. Results: Our findings demonstrate a significant causal relationship between higher body mass index (BMI) and the risk of SUI, with increased abdominal adiposity (WHRadjBMI) similarly linked to SUI. Smoking initiation is also causally associated with an elevated risk. However, our analysis did not find definitive causal connections for other factors, including T2D, alcohol consumption, coffee intake, and vigorous physical activity. Conclusions: These findings provide valuable insights for clinical strategies targeting SUI, suggesting a need for heightened awareness and potential intervention in individuals with higher BMI, WHR, and smoking habits. Further research is warranted to explore the complex interplay between genetic predisposition and lifestyle choices in the pathogenesis of SUI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic and destructive autoimmune disease that has created a global burden. However, the pathogenesis and treatment strategies of IBD remain difficult problems to overcome. The anti‐inflammatory action of anion‐dependent layered double hydroxide (LDH) is evaluated in IBD. Raw264.7 macrophages induced by Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) produced low levels of pro‐inflammatory cytokines after LDH treatment. The results from dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)‐induced murine colitis models show that LDHs significantly reduce pro‐inflammatory cytokines in the colon tissue and inhibit colon atrophy. Most importantly, LDH with NO3− as the interlayer anion (LDH‐NO3−) demonstrates superior anti‐inflammatory ability compared to LDH with Cl− as the interlayer anion (LDH‐Cl−), both in vitro and in vivo. LDH‐NO3− promotes the differentiation of CD206+CX3CR1+ lamina propria macrophages, reduces the abundance of T helper 17 (Th17) cells, and inhibits the activation of the IL‐17 signaling pathway. LDH‐NO3− also limits the pro‐inflammatory effects of IL‐17A on macrophages, and the anti‐inflammatory effects of LDH‐NO3− are reversed by IL‐17RA‐siRNA. Suggesting that LDH effectively inhibits the inflammatory reaction induced by the interaction between macrophages and Th17 cells. This study demonstrates that LDH‐NO3− is a drug‐free nanomedicine that acts against IBD, providing application prospects for LDH‐NO3− in IBD treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a predominant subtype of esophageal cancer with relatively high mortality worldwide. Serine peptidase inhibitor Kazal‐type 5 (SPINK5) is reported to be downregulated in ESCC. However, its explicit role in ESCC remains further investigation. Methods: The tumor tissues and adjacent non‐cancerous tissues were obtained from 196 patients with ESCC for the determination of SPINK5 mRNA levels. Additionally, the relationship between SPINK5 mRNA levels and clinicopathological features of ESCC patients was explored. The effects of SPINK5 on the invasion and migration of ESCC cells were assessed using Transwell assays. Furthermore, SPINK5 mRNA and LEKTI protein were measured in ESCC cell lines after treatment with poly (I:C), lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or unmethylated CpG DNA. Moreover, the correlation between expression of SPINK5 and nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) signaling pathway‐related genes was analyzed in the TCGA‐ESCC cohort, and the effects of SPINK5 on NF‐κB transcription was analyzed using a luciferase reporter gene assay. Finally, the correlations between SPINK5 and infiltration of immune cells, immune scores, stromal scores and ESTIMATE (i.e., Estimation of STromal and Immune cells in MAlignant Tumor tissues using Expression data) scores were explored. Results: SPINK5 mRNA levels were downregulated in tumor tissues, which was significantly correlated with higher lymph node metastases. Overexpressed SPINK5 inhibited cell invasion and migration in ESCC cell lines. Mechanistically, LPS‐induced activation of Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) decreased SPINK5 mRNA and LEKTI in KYSE150 and KYSE70 cells. Spearman correlation analysis revealed that SPINK5 mRNA was significantly negatively correlated with a total of seven NF‐κB signaling pathway‐related genes in TCGA‐ESCC patients. Moreover, downregulation of SPINK5 increased and upregulation of SPINK5 decreased the activity of the NF‐κB promoter in HEK293T cells. Finally, immune cells infiltration analysis revealed that SPINK5 was significantly correlated with the infiltration of various immune cells, stromal scores, immune scores and ESTIMATE scores. Conclusions: SPINK5 plays critical roles in the TLR4/NF‐κB pathway and immune cells infiltration, which might contribute to the ESCC metastasis. The findings of the present study may provide a promising biomarker for the diagnosis and treatment of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses a study that analyzed the bacterial load in meconium and second-pass feces of newborn infants. The researchers used the spike-in plasmid method to obtain quantitative results and found that the abundance of bacteria in meconium samples was 1.14 x 10^7 copies/g, while in second-pass feces samples it was 1.59 x 10^9 copies/g. The mode of delivery was found to significantly influence the composition of gut bacteria in newborns within 72 hours. The study also examined the differences in microbial composition between infants born via C-section and eutocia. The findings contribute to our understanding of the early colonization of the gut microbiota in infants. [Extracted from the article]

Background and Aim: The study aims to develop a hybrid machine learning model for predicting resectability of the pancreatic cancer, which is based on computed tomography (CT) and National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines. Method: We retrospectively studied 349 patients. One hundred seventy‐one cases from Center 1 and 92 cases from Center 2 were used as the primary training cohort, and 66 cases from Center 3 and 20 cases from Center 4 were used as the independent test dataset. Semi‐automatic module of ITK‐SNAP software was used to assist CT image segmentation to obtain three‐dimensional (3D) imaging region of interest (ROI). There were 788 handcrafted features extracted for 3D ROI using PyRadiomics. The optimal feature subset consists of three features screened by three feature selection methods as the input of the SVM to construct the conventional radiomics‐based predictive model (cRad). 3D ROI was used to unify the resolution by 3D spline interpolation method for constructing the 3D tumor imaging tensor. Using 3D tumor image tensor as input, 3D kernelled support tensor machine‐based predictive model (KSTM), and 3D ResNet‐based deep learning predictive model (ResNet) were constructed. Multi‐classifier fusion ML model is constructed by fusing cRad, KSTM, and ResNet using multi‐classifier fusion strategy. Two experts with more than 10 years of clinical experience were invited to reevaluate each patient based on their CECT following the NCCN guidelines to obtain resectable, unresectable, and borderline resectable diagnoses. The three results were converted into probability values of 0.25, 0.75, and 0.50, respectively, according to the traditional empirical method. Then it is used as an independent classifier and integrated with multi‐classifier fusion machine learning (ML) model to obtain the human–machine fusion ML model (HMfML). Results: Multi‐classifier fusion ML model's area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC; 0.8610), predictive accuracy (ACC: 80.23%), sensitivity (SEN: 78.95%), and specificity (SPE: 80.60%) is better than cRad, KSTM, and ResNet‐based single‐classifier models and their two‐classifier fusion models. This means that three different models have mined complementary CECT feature expression from different perspectives and can be integrated through CFS‐ER, so that the fusion model has better performance. HMfML's AUC (0.8845), ACC (82.56%), SEN (84.21%), SPE (82.09%). This means that ML models might learn extra information from CECT that experts cannot distinguish, thus complementing expert experience and improving the performance of hybrid ML models. Conclusion: HMfML can predict PC resectability with high accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: In order to study the effect of adsorption of surfactant at the two interfacial layers on emulsion stability, the kinetically stable water‐in‐oil‐in‐water (W/O/W) emulsion carriers were prepared using polyglycerol polyricinoleate (PGPR) and gum arabic (GA) as emulsifiers. The relationship between the adsorption of the surfactant and the stability mechanism of the emulsions was elucidated. RESULTS: When the contents of PGPR and GA were low, the interfaces between oil and the inner and outer water phases, respectively, could not be completely covered. However, when the concentration of PGPR was higher than 60 g kg−1, the excess PGPR was adsorbed on the interface between the oil phase and the outer water phase. When the concentration of GA reached 80 g kg−1, more GA was adsorbed to the oil‐in‐water interface. Moreover, the presence of PGPR on the interface could reduce the adsorption capacity of GA. Two types of kinetically stable emulsions were obtained by optimizing the interface composition (60 g kg−1 GA/80 g kg−1 PGPR and 60 g kg−1 PGPR/80 g kg−1 GA). The kinetically stable W/O/W emulsions prepared in this study were successfully used to encapsulate a hydrophilic vitamin (vitamin B12) with an encapsulation efficiency (EE) of 80% and release efficiency (RE) of 95%. The interfacial adsorption GA can accelerate the hydrolysis of fat. CONCLUSION: Overall, this study provides a new strategy for the preparation of W/O/W emulsions, which might be beneficial for application in food, cosmetic, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estrogen receptor α (ERα) serves as an essential therapeutic predictor for breast cancer (BC) patients and is regulated by epigenetic modification. Abnormal methylation of cytosine phosphoric acid guanine islands in the estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) gene promoter could silence or decrease ERα expression. In ERα‐negative BC, we previously found snail family transcriptional repressor 2 (SNAI2), a zinc‐finger transcriptional factor, recruited lysine‐specific demethylase 1 to the promoter to transcriptionally suppress ERα expression by demethylating histone H3 lysine 4 dimethylation (H3K4me2). However, the role of SNAI2 in ERα‐positive BC remains elusive. In this study, we observed a positive correlation between SNAI2 and ESR1 methylation, and SNAI2 promoted ESR1 methylation by recruiting DNA methyltransferase 3 beta (DNMT3B) rather than DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) in ERα‐positive BC cells. Subsequent enrichment analysis illustrated that ESR1 methylation is strongly correlated with cell adhesion and junction. Knocking down DNMT3B could partially reverse SNAI2 overexpression‐induced cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Moreover, high DNMT3B expression predicted poor relapse‐free survival and overall survival in ERα‐positive BC patients. In conclusion, this study demonstrated the novel mechanisms of the ESR1 methylation mediated with the SNAI2/DNMT3B complex and enhanced awareness of ESR1 methylation's role in promoting epithelial–mesenchymal transition in BC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the federal Kalman filter is used to directly fuse the measurement information into the main filter without processing, resulting in the problem of reduced filtering accuracy. An adaptive weighted federated Kalman filtering based on Mahalanobis distance was proposed in this paper. By calculating the Mahalanobis distance between the predicted value and the measurements of the system, the random fluctuation of the measurements is detected. The statistical characteristics of the system measurement noise are adjusted at any time according to random fluctuations in the measurements. And then by using a adaptive amplification factor to dynamically adjust the measurement noise in the subsystems, and reduce the impact of measurement information contamination in subfilters on the main filter. The adaptive federated information distribution coefficient is used to realize the global information fusion of the federal Kalman filter method, to reduce the influence of inaccurate estimation of subfilters on the main filter.Simulation results and comparison analysis prove that the filtering performance of the proposed is better than the traditional federated Kalman filter (FKF) and adaptive FKF, which can improve the accuracy of the integrated navigation system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymer‐dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) devices are truly promising optical modulators for information display, smart window as well as intelligent photoelectronic applications due to their fast switching, large optical modulation as well as cost‐effectiveness. However, realizing highly soft PDLC devices with sensing function remains a grand challenge because of the intrinsic brittleness of traditional transparent conductive electrodes. Here, inspired by spiderweb configuration, a novel type of silver nanowires (AgNWs) micromesh‐based stretchable transparent conductive electrodes (STCEs) is developed to support the realization of soft PDLC device. Benefiting from the embedding design of AgNWs micromesh in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), the STCEs can maintain excellent electrical conductivity and transparency even in various extreme conditions such as bending, folding, twisting, stretching as well as multiple chemical corrosion. Further, STCEs with the embedded AgNWs micromesh endow the assembled PDLC device with excellent photoelectrical properties including rapid switching speed (<1 s), large optical modulation (69% at 600 nm), as well as robust mechanical stability (bending over 1000 cycles and stretching to 40%). Moreover, the device displays the pressure sensing function with high sensitivity in response to pressure stimulus. It is conceivable that AgNWs micromesh transparent electrodes will shape the next generation of related soft smart electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extreme power output scenarios of renewable energy sources (RES) proposed new challenges to the safe and stable operation of the power system. Transmission expansion planning (TEP) with large‐scale RES grid integration needs considering the risk of extreme scenarios. In this paper, an adaptive decision‐making approach for the TEP problem based on planning‐risk assessment‐replanning iterative process is proposed. The method obtains massive temporal and spatial correlated wind‐photovoltaic (PV) power output scenarios by generalizing the historical data to describe the uncertainties. A data‐driven load loss risk assessment model (RAM) based on the power system's actual operating state is built, referring to the degree of extreme scenario risks on the balance of supply and demand, and the probability of extreme scenario occurrence. The planning decision is progressively revised according to the risk assessment result. The Garver's 6‐bus system and the IEEE RTS 24‐bus system are adopted as simulation cases. The results show that the optimal expansion plans achieve a balance between the economy and robustness, which verifies the effectiveness of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a hypervascular malignancy by which its growth and dissemination are largely driven by the modulation of tumor‐derived small extracellular vesicles (sEVs). Proteomic profiling of circulating sEVs of control individuals and HCC patients identifies von Willibrand factor (vWF) to be upregulated progressively along HCC stages. Elevated sEV–vWF levels are found in a larger cohort of HCC–sEV samples and metastatic HCC cell lines compared to their respective normal counterparts. Circulating sEVs of late‐stage HCC patients markedly augment angiogenesis, tumor–endothelial adhesion, pulmonary vascular leakiness, and metastasis, which are significantly compromised by anti‐vWF antibody. The role of vWF is further corroborated by the enhanced promoting effect of sEVs collected from vWF‐overexpressing cells. sEV–vWF modulates endothelial cells through an elevated level of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF‐A) and fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2). Mechanistically, secreted FGF2 elicits a positive feedback response in HCC via the FGFR4/ERK1 signaling pathway. The co‐administration of anti‐vWF antibody or FGFR inhibitor significantly improves the treatment outcome of sorafenib in a patient‐derived xenograft mouse model. This study reveals mutual stimulation between HCC and endothelial cells by tumor‐derived sEVs and endothelial angiogenic factors, facilitating angiogenesis and metastasis. It also provides insights into a new therapeutic strategy involving blocking tumor–endothelial intercellular communication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute liver failure (ALF) is a life‐threatening condition. Cell‐based and cell‐free‐based therapies have proven to be effective in treating ALF; however, their clinical application is limited by cell tumorigenicity and extracellular vesicle (EV) isolation in large doses. Here, we explored the effectiveness and mechanism of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs)‐based bioartificial liver (hUCMSC‐BAL), which is a simple and efficient strategy for ALF. D‐galactosamine‐based pig and mouse ALF models were used to explore the effectiveness of hUCMSC‐BAL and hUCMSC‐sEV therapies. Furthermore, high‐throughput sequencing, miRNA transcriptome analysis, and western blot were performed to clarify whether the miR‐139‐5p/PDE4D axis plays a critical role in the ALF model in vivo and in vitro. hUCMSC‐BAL significantly reduced inflammatory responses and cell apoptosis. hUCMSC‐sEV significantly improved liver function in ALF mice and enhanced the regeneration of liver cells. Furthermore, hUCMSC‐sEV miRNA transcriptome analysis showed that miR‐139‐5p had the highest expression and that PDE4D was one of its main target genes. The sEV miR‐139‐5p/PDE4D axis played a role in the treatment of ALF by inhibiting cell apoptosis. Our data indicate that hUCMSC‐BAL can inhibit cytokine storms and cell apoptosis through the sEV miR‐139‐5p/PDE4D axis. Therefore, we propose hUCMSC‐BAL as a therapeutic strategy for patients with early ALF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) play a key role in exchanging cargoes between cells in tumour microenvironment. This study aimed to elucidate the functions and mechanisms of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) derived sEV‐clathrin light chain A (CLTA) in remodelling microvascular niche. CLTA level in the circulating sEVs of HCC patients was analysed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The functions of sEV‐CLTA in affecting HCC cancerous properties were examined by multiple functional assays. Mass spectrometry was used to identify downstream effectors of sEV‐CLTA in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Tube formation, sprouting, trans‐endothelial invasion and vascular leakiness assays were performed to determine the functions of sEV‐CLTA and its effector, basigin (BSG) in HUVECs. BSG inhibitor, SP‐8356, was tested in a mouse model of patient‐derived xenografts (PDXs). Circulating sEVs of HCC patients had markedly enhanced CLTA levels than control individuals and were reduced in patients after surgery. HCC derived sEV‐CLTA enhanced HCC cancerous properties, disrupted endothelial integrity and induced angiogenesis. Mechanistically, CLTA remodels microvascular niche by stabilizing and upregulating BSG. Last, SP‐8356 alone or in combination with sorafenib attenuated PDXs growth. The study reveals the role of HCC derived sEV‐CLTA in microvascular niche formation. Inhibition of CLTA and its mediated pathway may illuminate a new therapeutic strategy for HCC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work demonstrates a high‐performance in‐cell polarizer adopting photo‐aligned azobenzene dyes. On the strength of the multilayered design, a simple fabrication process has been developed to assemble an in‐cell polarizer. We have achieved a broadband dichroic ratio after the long‐term stability test. Meanwhile, the cell with the proposed in‐cell polarizer can be driven regularly without a voltage boost, which renders excellent practicability in liquid crystal display technologies. The structure, fabrication process, and properties of the in‐cell polarizer in TN‐LCD are thoroughly discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two ionic hydrogen‐bonded organic frameworks (iHOF‐10, iHOF‐11) were prepared using 1,1′‐diamino‐4,4′‐bipyridine diiodide (Dbpy ⋅ 2I) and tetrakis(4‐sulfophenyl)ethylene (H4TPE). With increasing RH and temperature, water molecules induce single crystal to single crystal (SCSC) transformation of iHOF‐10, resulting in the formation of iHOF‐11. At 90 °C, 98 % RH, the proton conductivity of iHOF‐11 (7.03×10−3 S cm−1) is 2.09 times higher than iHOF‐10 (3.37×10−3 S cm−1). At 50 °C, 98 % RH, iHOF‐11 (9.49×10−4 S cm−1) is 19.06 times higher than iHOF‐10 (4.98×10−5 S cm−1). The proton conductivity shows water molecules enter the crystal and induce crystal transformation and reorganization of the hydrogen bonding structure, thus increasing the proton conductivity and stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Myopia control spectacle lenses with peripheral lenslets are gaining popularity because they are non‐invasive and easy to manage, and ongoing clinical trials have shown promising results. This study aimed to evaluate peripheral and central visual acuity (VA) with peripheral gaze in conditions where the eyes are turned to look obliquely through the lenslets. Methods: High‐contrast (100%) VA was measured at 300 cm and 10 lx. For each test, two lens designs were evaluated in counterbalanced order: a spectacle lens with highly aspherical lenslets (HALs) and a standard single‐vision lens (SVL). The target screen was placed at a visual angle of 21.6° to the nasal side of the right eye. Sixteen adults (27–52 years of age; spherical equivalent refraction (SER), −8.75 D to +0.50 D) wearing their habitual visual correction performed all tests monocularly. Results: Mean (SD) central VAs with peripheral gaze through the SVL and the HAL lens were 0.08 (0.13) and 0.17 (0.12) logMAR, respectively. The HAL lens reduced central VA with peripheral gaze by 0.10 (0.08) logMAR (p = 0.03). No significant correlation was observed between the impact of the HAL lens and other factors, such as age or SER. Peripheral VA was not significantly different through the two lenses (1.09 (0.06) logMAR and 1.09 (0.09) logMAR for the SVL and the HAL lens, respectively; p = 0.86). Conclusions: Under high‐contrast and low‐luminance conditions, the HAL lens reduced central VA with peripheral gaze by approximately one line compared with the SVL. The impact on central VA did not vary with gaze direction, age or SER. The HAL lens did not affect peripheral VA in this condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The osseointegration of dental implants is impaired in patients with osteoporosis, leading to significantly higher failure rates. This study set out to investigate the potential effects of alpha‐ketoglutarate (α‐KG) on implant osseointegration in an osteoporotic mouse model. Materials and Methods: Female C57BL/6 mice received ovariectomy and bilateral first maxillary molar extraction at the age of 7 weeks. Dental implants were inserted 8 weeks after tooth extraction. In one of the groups, α‐KG was administered via drinking water throughout the experimental period. Specimens were collected on post‐implant days (PIDs) 3, 7, 14, and 21 for micro‐CT, histological, and immunohistochemical analyses. At the same time, bone‐marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) treated with α‐KG were interrogated for osteogenic differentiation, autophagic activity, and apoptosis. Results: α‐KG supplementation in drinking water resulted in enhanced dental implant osseointegration in ovariectomized mice, with up‐regulated osteogenic and autophagic activity and down‐regulated osteoclast differentiation and cell apoptosis. α‐KG‐treated BMMSCs showed enhanced activity in proliferation, survival, colony formation, and osteogenic differentiation, as well as autophagic activity. Conclusions: Systemic α‐KG supplementation effectively prevents the failure of dental implant osseointegration in mice under an osteoporotic state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An advance Li‐sphere possessing a definitely regular morphology in Li deposition enables a well‐defined more robust structure and superior solid‐electrolyte interphase (SEI) to achieve high‐efficiency long‐term cycles in Li metal anode. Here, a new sight of high Li+ cluster‐like solvation sheaths coordinated in a localized high‐concentration NO3− (LH‐LiNO3) electrolyte fully clarifies for depositing advanced Li spheres. Moreover, we elucidate a critical amorphous‐crystalline phase transition in the nanostructure evolution of Li‐sphere deposits during the nucleation and growth. Li‐sphere anode exhibits ultra‐stable structural engineering for suppressing Li dendrite growths and rendering ultralong life of 4000 cycles in symmetrical cells at 2 mA cm−2. The as‐constructed Li spheres/3DCM|LiFePO4 (LFP) full cell delivers a high capacity retention of 90.5% at 1 C after 1000 cycles, and a robust dendrite‐free structure also stably exists in Li‐sphere anode. Combined with high‐loading LFP cathodes (6.6 and 10.9 mg cm−2), superb capacity retentions are up to 96.5% and 92.5% after 800 cycles at 1 C, respectively. Cluster‐like solvation sheaths with high Li+ coordination exert significant influence on depositing a high‐quality Li‐sphere anode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Active surveillance/watchful waiting (AS/WW) is feasible and effective for favorable‐risk prostate cancer (PCa). Understanding socioeconomic determinants of AS/WW may help determine the target population for social support and improve cancer‐related survival. Methods: The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Prostate with Watchful Waiting Database 18 Registries identified 229,428 adult men diagnosed with primary localized PCa (clinical T1‐T2c, N0M0) during a median follow‐up of 45 months between 2010 and 2016. Socioeconomic determinants included socioeconomic status (SES) tertiles, marital status (unmarried vs married), and residency (urban vs rural). Multivariable logistic regression and Cox models determined the adjusted odds ratios (aOR) for AS/WW utilization, and adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) for cancer‐specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS). The extent of missing data was evaluated by multiple imputation. Sensitivity analyses were performed in multiple imputation datasets. Results: Unmarried patients were more likely to receive AS/WW in low‐risk group (aOR, 1.20 [95%CI, 1.12–1.28]; p < 0.001) and favorable intermediate‐risk group (aOR, 1.41 [95%CI, 1.26–1.59]; p < 0.001) than married patients. Urban patients had 0.77‐fold lower likelihood of AS/WW than rural patients in low‐risk group (95% CI, 0.68–0.87; p < 0.001), but not in favorable intermediate‐risk groups. Among patients undertaking AS/WW, a significantly worse OS was observed among unmarried patients comparing to married group (aHR, 1.98 [95% CI, 1.50–2.60]; p < 0.001), and patients with high SES had better CSS than low group (aHR, 0.08 [95%CI, 0.01–0.69]; p = 0.02). No significant survival difference was found between urban and rural patients. Conclusions and Relevance: Unmarried or urban patients had significantly higher rates of AS/WW. The utilization and efficacy of conservative management were affected by socioeconomic factors, which might serve as a barrier of treatment decision‐making and targeted a population in need of social support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phorbol is a tetracyclic diterpenoid found in Euphorbia tirucalli, Croton tiglium, and Rehmannia glutinosa, and is nuclear of various phorbol esters. The rapid obtaining of phorbol with high purity highly contributes to its application, such as synthesizing phorbol esters with designable side chains and particular therapeutic efficacy. This study introduced a biphasic alcoholysis method for obtaining phorbol from croton oil by using polarity imparity organic solvents in both phases and established a high‐speed countercurrent chromatography method for simultaneous separation and purification of phorbol. The optimized operation conditions of biphasic alcoholysis were a reaction time of 91 min, a temperature of 14°C, and a croton oil‐methanol ratio of 1:30 (g:ml). The phorbol during the biphasic alcoholysis was 3.2‐fold higher in content than that obtained in conventional monophasic alcoholysis. The optimized high‐speed countercurrent chromatography method was using the ethyl acetate/n‐butyl alcohol/water at 4.7:0.3:5 (v:v:v) with Na2SO4 at 0.36 g/10 ml as the solvent system, using the mobile phase flow rate of 2 ml/min, the revolution of 800 r/min, under which the retention of the stationary phase was achieved at 72.83%. The crystallized phorbol following high‐speed countercurrent chromatography was obtained as high purity of 94%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work focuses on developing a solution‐based ultra‐thin polarizer for liquid crystal displays, utilizing dichroic azo dye AD1 as the key material. The produced AD1 polarizer exhibits excellent optical performance with a dichroic ratio of over 95. The film thickness is less than 200nm. Furthermore, a TN LCD with an incell polarizer is demonstrated. This technology shows excellent prospects for developing high‐performance, coatable polarizers with scalability and lower‐cost manufacturing potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical nature of the DNA bases is an important factor in sequence‐mediated association of DNA molecules. Nucleotides are the fundamental DNA elements and the base identity impacts the molecular properties of nucleotide fragments. It is interesting to study the fundamental nature of nucleotides in DNA, on the basis of base‐specific interactions, association, and modes of standard atomic or molecular interactions. With all‐atom molecular dynamics simulations of model dinucleotide and tetranucleotide systems having single‐stranded dinucleotide or tetranucleotide fragments of varying sequences, we show how the base identity and interactions between the different bases as well as water may affect the clustering properties of nucleotides fragments in an ionic solution. Sequence‐dependent differential interactions between the nucleotide fragments, ionic concentration, and elevated temperature are found to influence the clustering properties and dynamics of association. Well‐known epigenetic modification of DNA, that is, cytosine methylation also promotes dinucleotide clustering in solution. These observations point to one possible chemical nature of the DNA bases, as well as the importance of the base pairing, base stacking, and ionic interactions in DNA structure formation, and DNA sequence‐mediated association. Sequence‐ and the ionic environment‐mediated self‐association properties of the dinucleotides indicate its great potential to develop biological nanomaterials for desired applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subduction‐related dehydration and exhumation‐related rehydration play an important role in water recycling on Earth. Water can be transported to the deep mantle through crustal subduction, whereas the behavior of water in the subducted crust during exhumation remains enigmatic. Here, we use an integrated micro X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry, transmission terahertz time‐domain, thermogravimetry, and differential scanning calorimetry approach for the first time on high‐pressure mafic granulite and amphibolite to investigate the water species and contents, as well as exhumation rehydration reactions. Our study demonstrates that garnet, hornblende, and ilmenite contain considerable amounts, and plagioclase contains minor amounts of water as molecular and structural species, whereas quartz contains only a minor amount of structural water. Water released from garnet and external fluids from the grain boundary will either migrate into hornblende, plagioclase, ilmenite, and quartz, or stored in the mantle wedge, or further subducted into the deep mantle. We suggest that water recycling between the Earth's surface and deep mantle is an unequilibrium process, and the lower crust and mantle may store a significant amount of water in deep Earth and can function as a container to feed and maintain the water recycling balance. Plain Language Summary: High‐pressure mafic granulites, representing rocks that underwent granulite facies metamorphism under high temperatures and pressures, are potential proxies to examine water recycling between Earth's surface and deep mantle layers through subduction zone channels. During metamorphism, water can be transported into the deep mantle via subduction‐related dehydration and returned to the surface through exhumation‐related rehydration processes, resulting in the formation of anhydrous and hydrous minerals in high‐pressure mafic granulites and amphibolites. The high‐pressure mafic granulite and amphibolite from the northern margin of the North China Block experienced the subduction of the Paleo‐Asian Ocean and the exhumation process of the subducted crust. In this study, we investigate the water species and content changes among the anhydrous and hydrous minerals, as well as whole‐rock during the exhumation process. We find that anhydrous mineral can store a considerable amount of water and release it into the hydrous minerals through rehydration reaction during exhumation. We propose that high‐pressure mafic granulite performing as a water carrier is able to transport significant amounts of water from deep mantle to the Earth's surface. Our study provides new insights for retrieving water recycling information in the deep Earth. Key Points: Hornblende, garnet, and ilmenite can store significant amounts of water, but only minor amounts in plagioclase and quartzHigh‐pressure granulite may be an important water carrier and is able to facilitate water recycling in deep EarthTransmission terahertz time‐domain spectroscopy offers a novel approach for water species and content detection in natural rocks [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]