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Bismuth‐based materials have emerged as promising catalysts in the electrocatalytic reduction of CO2 to formate. However, the reasons for the reconstruction of Bi‐based precursors to form bismuth nanosheets are still puzzling, especially the formation of defective bismuth sites. Herein, we prepare bismuth nanosheets with vacancy‐rich defects (V‐Bi NS) by rapidly reconstructing Bi19Cl3S27 under negative potential. Theoretical analysis reveals that the introduction of chlorine induces the generation of intrinsic electric field in the precursor, thereby increasing the electron transfer rate and further promoting the metallization of trivalent bismuth. Meanwhile, experimental tests verify that Bi19Cl3S27 has a faster reconstruction rate than Bi2S3. The formed V‐Bi NS exhibits up to 96 % HCOO− Faraday efficiency and 400 mA cm−2 HCOO− partial current densities, and its electrochemical active surface area normalized formate current density and yield are 2.2 times higher than those of intact bismuth nanosheets (I‐Bi NS). Density functional theory calculations indicate that bismuth vacancies with electron‐rich aggregation reduce the activation energy of CO2 to *CO2− radicals and stabilize the adsorption of the key intermediate *OCHO, thus facilitating the reaction kinetics of formate production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of KRAS mutation in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) initiation and progression is well‐established. However, "undruggable" KRAS protein poses the research of small molecule inhibitors a significant challenge. Addressing this, proteolysis‐targeting chimeras (PROTACs) have become a cutting‐edge treatment method, emphasizing protein degradation. A modified ethanol injection method was employed in this study to formulate liposomes encapsulating PROTAC drug LC‐2 (LC‐2 LPs). Precise surface modifications using cell‐penetrating peptide R8 yielded R8‐LC‐2 liposomes (R8‐LC‐2 LPs). Comprehensive cellular uptake and cytotoxicity studies unveiled that R8‐LC‐2 LPs depended on concentration and time, showcasing the superior performance of R8‐LC‐2 LPs compared to normal liposomes. In vivo pharmacokinetic profiles demonstrated the capacity of DSPE‐PEG2000 to prolong the circulation time of LC‐2, leading to higher plasma concentrations compared to free LC‐2. In vivo antitumor efficacy research underscored the remarkable ability of R8‐LC‐2 LPs to effectively suppress tumor growth. This study contributed to the exploration of enhanced therapeutic strategies for NSCLC, specifically focusing on the development of liposomal PROTACs targeting the "undruggable" KRAS protein. The findings provide valuable insights into the potential of this innovative approach, offering prospects for improved drug delivery and heightened antitumor efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Grain weight, grain number per panicle, and the number of panicles are the three factors that determine rice (Oryza sativa L.) yield. Of these, grain weight, which not only directly determines rice yield but also influences appearance and quality, is often considered the most important for rice production. Here, we describe OsNF‐YC1, a member of the NF‐Y transcription factor family that regulates rice grain size. OsNF‐YC1 knockout plants (osnf‐yc1), obtained using CRISPR‐Cas9 technology, showed reduced grain weight due to reduced width and thickness, with no change in grain length, leading to a slenderer grain shape. Downregulation of OsNF‐YC1 using RNA interference resulted in similar grain phenotypes as osnf‐yc1. OsNF‐YC1 affects grain formation by regulating both cell proliferation and cell expansion. OsNF‐YC1 localizes in both the nucleus and cytoplasm, has transcriptional activation activity at both the N‐terminus and C‐terminus, and is highly expressed in young panicles. OsNF‐YC1 interacts with OsMADS1 both in vivo and in vitro. Further analysis showed that the histone‐like structural CBFD‐NFYB‐HMF domain of OsNF‐YC1 conserved in the OsNF‐YC transcription factor family can directly interact with the MADS‐box domain of OsMADS1 to enhance its transcriptional activation activity. This interaction positively regulates the expression of OsMADS55, the direct downstream target of OsMADS1. Therefore, this paper reveals a potential grain size regulation pathway controlled by an OsNF‐YC1‐OsMADS1‐OsMADS55 module in rice. Significance Statement: This paper described the molecular mechanism of OsNF‐YC1 regulating rice grain size formation, a potential pathway of OsNF‐YC1‐OsMADS1‐OsMADS55. OsNF‐YC1 knockout plants displayed the slender grain size with the narrower grain width than the controls, the yield of which was not changed due to the number of grains per panicle of the osnf‐yc1 mutant is increased. Therefore, OsNF‐YC1 can be used for improving rice appearance quality and yield, which has a potential value in practical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Cardiovascular‐kidney‐metabolic (CKM) multimorbidity is prevalent among individuals with heart failure (HF), but whether cardiac structure and function, clinical outcomes, and treatment response to sacubitril/valsartan vary in relation to CKM status is unknown. Methods and results: In this PARAGON‐HF post‐hoc analysis, we evaluated the impact of CKM multimorbidity (atherosclerotic cardiovascular [CV] disease, chronic kidney disease, and type 2 diabetes) on cardiac structure and function, clinical outcomes, and treatment effects of sacubitril/valsartan versus valsartan. The primary outcome was a composite of total HF hospitalizations and CV death. Secondary outcomes included the individual components of the primary outcome and a composite kidney outcome (sustained estimated glomerular filtration rate reduction of ≥50%, end‐stage kidney disease, or kidney‐related death). At baseline, 35.2% had one CKM condition, 33.3% had two, 15.9% had three, and only 15.6% had HF alone. CKM multimorbidity was associated with higher septal and posterior wall thickness, lower global longitudinal strain, higher E/e', and worse right ventricular function. Total HF hospitalizations or CV death increased with greater CKM multimorbidity, with the highest relative risk observed with three CKM conditions (rate ratio 3.06, 95% confidence interval 2.33–4.03), compared with HF alone. Treatment effects of sacubitril/valsartan were consistent irrespective of the number of CKM conditions for the primary endpoint (pinteraction = 0.75), CV death (pinteraction = 0.82), total HF hospitalizations (pinteraction = 0.67), and the composite kidney endpoint (pinteraction = 0.99). Conclusions: Cardiovascular‐kidney‐metabolic multimorbidity was common in PARAGON‐HF and associated with adverse changes in cardiac structure and function and with a stepwise increase in risk of clinical outcomes. Treatment effects of sacubitril/valsartan were consistent irrespective of CKM burden. Clinical Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01920711. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Speed curve planning is one of the most important functions of automatic train operation (ATO). To improve the real‐time optimization capability and driver‐friendliness of the existing ATO, an extended ATO framework considering both automatic driving and assisted driving is designed. A multi‐objective optimization model based on quadratic programming is established considering energy‐saving, punctuality, and comfort. However, due to the influence of the weight of multi‐objectives, this method cannot directly obtain the speed curve satisfying the trip time constraint. Further, based on the analysis about the weight of multi‐objects, a time‐constrained quadratic programming algorithm is proposed. With the proposed method, the speed curve can be calculated in real‐time both before operations and during operations. For the former, time‐varying train mass and trip time are considered to guarantee an optimal solution. For the latter, deviations, delays, and maloperations on the way are corrected. Simulation experiments verify the solvability and real‐time performance of the proposed method. In particular, compared with the dynamic programming and (mixed‐integer linear programming) MILP method, the proposed method is more energy‐efficient and easier to be followed by the driver. In addition, a prototype is developed for commercial tests on a Beijing subway line. The relevant performance is verified in commercial tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foam sandwich composite (FSC) has recently been widely used in transportation, aerospace, shipping, and construction because of its lightweight, high specific strength, stiffness, and fatigue resistance characteristics. This study aimed to prepare, characterize, and test FSC with different diluent addition amounts. Benzyl glycidyl ester was added to the epoxy foam (EF) as a reactive diluent. Then, the EF was introduced into the three‐dimensional hollow composite (3DHC) by vacuum introduction process to prepare the FSC. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis demonstrated that increased diluent content enhanced SiN bond formation, augmenting thermal stability in resin molecules. The effects of different diluents on the mechanical properties of FSC showed that the mechanical properties of FSC were the best when the diluent content was 5 wt%. Compared with 3DHC, the flat compressive strength, flat tensile strength, and shear strength were increased by 7.2, 6.4, and 2.9 times, respectively. Highlights: Diluent improves foaming agent dispersion by lowering resin viscosity.Diluent makes the EP easier to be introduced into 3DHC.FSC demonstrates a 723% increase in flat compression strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objective: Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP), an opportunistic infection, often leads to an increase in hospitalization time and mortality rates in kidney transplant (KT) recipients. However, the risk factors associated with PJP in KT recipients remain debatable. Therefore, we conducted this meta‐analysis to identify risk factors for PJP, which could potentially help to reduce PJP incidence and improve outcome of KT recipients. Methods: We systematically retrieved relevant studies in PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library up to November 2023. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) or mean differences (MDs) and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess the impact of potential risk factors on the occurrence of PJP. Results: 27 studies including 42383 KT recipients were included. In this meta‐analysis, age at transplantation (MD = 3.48; 95% CI =.56–6.41; p =.02), cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection (OR = 4.00; 95% CI = 2.53–6.32; p =.001), BK viremia (OR = 3.38; 95% CI = 1.70–6.71; p =.001), acute rejection (OR = 3.66; 95% CI = 2.44–5.49; p =.001), ABO‐incompatibility (OR = 2.51; 95% CI = 1.57–4.01; p =.001), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (MD = ‐14.52; 95% CI = ‐25.37– (‐3.67); p =.009), lymphocyte count (MD = ‐.54; 95% CI = ‐.92– (‐.16); p =.006) and anti‐PJP prophylaxis (OR =.53; 95% CI =.28–.98; p =.04) were significantly associated with PJP occurrence. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that transplantation age greater than 50 years old, CMV infection, BK viremia, acute rejection, ABO‐incompatibility, decreased eGFR and lymphopenia were risk factors for PJP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although proteinuria is long recognized as an independent risk factor for progressive chronic kidney diseases, not all forms of proteinuria are detrimental to kidney function, one of which is isolated proteinuria caused by cubilin (CUBN)‐specific mutations. CUBN encodes an endocytic receptor, initially found to be responsible for the Imerslund–Gräsbeck syndrome (IGS; OMIM #261100) characterized by a combined phenotype of megaloblastic anemia and proteinuria. Methods: After analyzing their clinical and pathological characterizations, next‐generation sequencing for renal disease genes or whole‐exome sequencing (WES) was performed on four patients with non‐progressive isolated proteinuria. CUBN biallelic pathogenic variants were identified and further analyzed by cDNA‐PCR sequencing, immunohistochemistry, minigene assay, and multiple in silico prediction tools, including 3D protein modeling. Results: Here, we present four patients with isolated proteinuria caused by CUBN C‐terminal biallelic pathogenic variants, all of which showed no typical IGS symptoms, such as anemia and vitamin B12 deficiency. Their urine protein levels fluctuated between +~++ and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were normal or slightly higher. Mild mesangial hypercellularity was found in three children's renal biopsies. A homozygous splice‐site variant of CUBN (c.6821+3 (IVS44) A>G) was proven to result in the exon 44 skipping and premature translation termination by cDNA sequencing and immunohistochemistry. Compound heterozygous mutations were identified among the other three children, including another novel splice‐site variant (c.10764+1 (IVS66) G>A) causing the retention of first 4 nucleotides in intron 66 by minigene assay, two unreported missense mutations (c.4907G>A (p.R1636Q); c. 9095 A>G (p.Y3032C)), and two reported missense mutations in China (c.8938G>A (p.D2980N); c. 9287T>C (p.L3096P)), locating behind the vitamin B12‐binding domain, affecting CUB11, CUB16, CUB22, CUB23, and CUB27 domains, respectively. Conclusion: These results demonstrate that above CUBN mutations may cause non‐progressive and isolated proteinuria, expanding the variant spectrum of CUBN and benefiting our understanding of proteinuria and renal function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

3C 84 is a well‐known supermassive black hole that can be used to explore jet and accretion physics. In this work, we model the multiwavelength spectral energy distribution (SED) of the 3C 84, and find that the SED is difficult to fit with pure advection dominated accretion flow (ADAF) or pure jet model. Using a coupled ADAF‐jet model to fit the SED of 3C 84, it is found that the radio emission and the millimeter emission can be naturally reproduced by the synchrotron radiation of nonthermal electrons in the jet, and that the X‐ray emission may predominantly come from inverse Compton radiation from electrons in ADAF. According to the Rotation Measure (RM) obtained by the polarization observation, we consider the possible location of the polarizing source and found that the calculated RM in the jet is roughly consistent with the observational constraints. These results will help us better understand jets produced by black holes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In urban railway systems, the timetable guides the section operation of the single train and the arrangement of the train group to meet the dual needs of cost and passengers. This paper proposes a two‐objective train operation optimization based on eco‐driving and timetabling to restore a more realistic scene, including a method level and an objective level. For the method level, the speed curve optimization of the single train and the timetable optimization of the train group are adopted jointly. For the objective level, both the total energy consumption of the train group and the consuming time of passengers are considered. A hybrid solution strategy based on quadratic programming and improved artificial bee colony algorithm is proposed. A hardware‐in‐the‐loop platform is built to carry out validation experiments. Both the cases in general hours and special hours are verified based on the actual data from Beijing Metro Line 15. The results show that both the energy consumption and the passenger consuming time are reduced simultaneously. Correspondingly, the speed curve and the time distribution of the timetable are individually optimized based on the fluctuating passenger flow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oligomeganephronia (OMN) is a rare congenital renal hypoplasia reported more often in children than in adults. The diagnosis of OMN relies on renal biopsy and exhibits a significant reduction in the number of glomeruli and pronounced glomerular hypertrophy. Here, we report the case of an 8‐year‐old boy with recurrent proteinuria and abnormal external ears. A renal biopsy revealed large and rare glomeruli. The histological findings confirmed the diagnosis of OMN. Whole‐exome sequencing of the patient revealed a new pathogenic variant in PBX1 (hg19, NM_002585, c.262delA, p.Thr88Glnfs*3). The PBX1 gene encodes a transcription factor whose pathogenic variants can result in congenital renal and urinary system anomalies, with or without hearing loss, abnormal ears, and developmental retardation (CAKUTED). This is the first report to detect PBX1 pathogenic variants in children with OMN, a novel phenotype of human PBX1 pathogenic variants. We performed functional prediction analyses of deletions in the corresponding structural domains. We summarized 27 cases of PBX1 single pathogenic variants reported between 2003 and 2023 in terms of truncating and missense pathogenic variants, which can deepen our understanding of the PBX1 structural domain and expand our knowledge of the PBX1 genotype and phenotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hugan tablet is a Chinese medicine preparation. It is composed of Bupleuri Radix, Artemisiae Scopariae Herba, Isatidis Radix, Schisandrae Chinensis Fructus, Suis Fellis Pulvis, and Vigna radiata L. It has the effects of dispersing stagnated liver qi, strengthening the spleen and eliminating food to be used for the treatment of chronic hepatitis and early cirrhosis. However, the chemical composition of Hugan tablet is complex and not fully understood, which hampers the research in pharmacology. In this study, a reliable method for the rapid analysis and identification of the chemical components in Hugan tablet by their characteristic fragments and neutral losses using ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole‐exactive orbitrap mass spectrometry was developed. A total of 144 chemical components were tentatively identified, including 57 organic acids, 19 flavonoids, 23 alkaloids, 18 lignans, 7 saponins, and 20 others. These components may be the active ingredients of Hugan tablet. The established method can systematically and rapidly analyze the chemical components in Hugan tablet, which provides a basis for the pharmacodynamic substance study and is meaningful for the quality control of Hugan tablet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objects: Oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) has gained increasing popularity recently. However, complications resulting from intraoperative retraction of psoas major (PM) sometimes occur. The aim of this study is to evaluate the degree of PM swelling by developing a scoring system called the Psoas Major Swelling Grade (PMSG), and to investigate the correlation between the PMSG and clinical outcomes after OLIF. Methods: Patients who underwent L4‐5 OLIF at our hospital from May 2019 to May 2021 were reviewed and all data were recorded. The extent of postoperative PM swelling was determined by calculating the percentage of change in the PM area before and after surgery on MRI and divided into three grades subsequently. Swelling within the range of 0% to 25% was defined as grade I, 25%–50% was grade II, and more than 50% was grade III. All patients were grouped into the new grade system and followed up for at least 1 year, during which the visual analog scale (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI) scores were recorded. Categorical data were analyzed using chi‐square and Fisher's exact tests, while continuous variables were assessed with one‐way ANOVA and paired t‐tests. Results: Eighty‐nine consecutive patients were enrolled in this study, with a mean follow‐up duration of 16.9 months. The proportion of female patients in the PMSG I, II, and III groups was 57.1%, 58.3%, and 84.1%, respectively (p = 0.024). Furthermore, the total complication rate was 43.2% in the PMSG III group, significantly higher than 9.5% and 20.8% in the PMSG I and II groups (p = 0.012). The incidence of thigh paraesthesia was also considerably higher in the PMSG III group at 34.1% (p = 0.015), compared to 9.5% and 8.3% in the PMSG I and II groups. Among the patients, 12.4% exhibited a teardrop‐shaped PM, with the majority (90.9%) belonging to the PMSG III group (p = 0.012). Additionally, the PMSG III group demonstrated a higher estimated blood loss (p = 0.007) and significantly worse clinical scores at the 1‐week follow‐up assessment (p < 0.001). Conclusion: PM swelling adversely affects the OLIF prognosis. Female patients with teardrop‐shaped PM are more likely to develop swelling after OLIF. A higher PMSG is associated with a higher complication rate of thigh pain or numbness and worse short‐term clinical outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rock glaciers (RGs) manifest the creep of mountain permafrost occurring in the past or at present. Their presence and dynamics are indicators of permafrost distribution and changes in response to climate forcing. There is a complete lack of knowledge about RGs in the Western Kunlun Mountains, one of the driest mountain ranges in Asia, where extensive permafrost is rapidly warming. In this study, we first mapped and quantified the kinematics of active RGs based on satellite Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) and Google Earth images. Then, we trained DeepLabv3+, a deep learning network for semantic image segmentation, to automate the mapping task. The well‐trained model was applied for a region‐wide extensive delineation of RGs from Sentinel‐2 images to map the landforms that were previously missed due to the limitations of the InSAR‐based identification. Finally, we mapped 413 RGs across the Western Kunlun Mountains: 290 of them were active RGs mapped manually based on InSAR and 123 of them were newly identified and outlined by deep learning. The RGs are categorized by their spatial connection to the upslope geomorphic units. All the RGs are located at altitudes between 3,390 and 5,540 m with an average size of 0.26 km2 and a mean slope angle of 17°. Characteristics of the inventoried RGs provided insights into permafrost distribution in the Western Kunlun Mountains. The median and maximum surface downslope velocities of the active ones are 17 ± 1 and 127 ± 6 cm yr−1, respectively. Plain Language Summary: Rock glaciers (RGs) are debris‐ice landforms and indicators of the status of perennially frozen ground, as known as permafrost, which is warming and thawing under climate change. The Western Kunlun Mountains are among the driest mountain ranges in Asia, where permafrost has been changing over the past decades and the information of RGs is completely lacking. In this paper, we developed an effective workflow for mapping RGs in a semi‐automated manner and characterized their geomorphology and kinematics. The compiled data set allows further investigation on RGs for multiple scientific motivations such as geohazard management, water resource assessment, and permafrost change monitoring. The documented characteristics provide insights into the permafrost distribution in the arid mountains. Key Points: A combined use of deep learning over optical images and Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar automates mapping rock glaciers (RGs) at the regional scaleWe compile the first RG inventory in the Western Kunlun Mountains with kinematic and geomorphic information documentedLocations of RGs provide insights on the permafrost distribution at the local scale in the Western Kunlun Mountains [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: The Dapagliflozin Evaluation to Improve the Lives of Patients with Preserved Ejection Fraction Heart Failure (DELIVER) trial demonstrated the sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor dapagliflozin to be beneficial in patients with symptomatic heart failure (HF) with improved ejection fraction (HFimpEF; those with prior left ventricular ejection fraction ≤40% that had improved to >40% by enrolment). Whether this benefit differs by background medical therapy is unclear. The current study aims to determine the efficacy and safety of dapagliflozin among patients with HFimpEF by background medical therapy. Methods and results: Treatment effects on the primary endpoint (worsening HF or cardiovascular death) were assessed by number of background HF medical therapies (angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker/angiotensin receptor–neprilysin inhibitor, evidence‐based beta‐blocker, and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist). Among the 6263 patients randomized in DELIVER, 1151 (18%) had HFimpEF. Of those, 21% of patients were on 0–1 therapies, 44% were on two therapies, and 35% were on three therapies. During 2.3 years of median follow‐up, the incidence rate of the primary outcome was 9.7, 8.8, and 8.4 per 100 person‐years for patients on 0–1, 2 and 3 HF medications at baseline, respectively. Treatment effects with dapagliflozin on the primary outcome may be greater in patients with HFimpEF on 0–1 therapies at baseline (pinteraction = 0.09), driven mostly by a significant interaction for HF hospitalization (pinteraction = 0.023) with no evidence of effect modification for cardiovascular death (pinteraction = 0.65). Treatment effects of dapagliflozin on the primary outcome were, however, consistent when assessed across the modified Heart Failure Collaboratory Medical Therapy Score integrating both therapeutic use and dosing (pinteraction = 0.39). The use of dapagliflozin was not associated with changes in use or doses of background HF therapies, and among patients on three HF medications at baseline, the addition of dapagliflozin did not lead to higher adverse events. Conclusions: In patients with HFimpEF, the safety and efficacy of dapagliflozin were largely similar by background use and dosing of HF medical therapies. The benefit of dapagliflozin in reducing HF events tended to be greater in those patients on 0‐1 medications at baseline. Among patients already on three HF medical therapies, the addition of dapagliflozin was safe without requiring de‐escalation of other therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, a distributed multi‐body dynamics model of high‐speed train (HST) with actuator faults is established. Based on this detail model, a non‐singular terminal sliding mode control method is designed for HST distributed fault‐tolerant control, and the stability of the proposed controller is proved strictly. Considering the high uncertainty of the distributed dynamics model, a radial basis function neural network is introduced to approximate the system uncertainties. Then a universal fuzzy system is proposed to eliminate the chattering problem from sliding mode controller in train control, which further improves the comfort of the train. Finally, numerical simulations are carried out using data from CRH380B train, and model reference adaptive control (MRAC) and adaptive sliding mode control are also tested under the same condition for performance comparison. The results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed controller. Compared with existing MRAC, the root mean square of the speed and position tracking error are reduced by 23.4% and 52%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The performance improvements of AlGaN‐based deep ultraviolet light‐emitting diodes (DUV‐LEDs) with multigradient electron blocking layer (EBL) and triangular last quantum barrier (LQB) are investigated. The results show that the maximum internal quantum efficiency (IQE) is improved by 44.9% and light output power (LOP) is improved by 58.1% at 200 A cm−2, exhibiting a tremendous improvement compared to the conventional structure. These improvements are mainly attributed to the fact that both multigradient EBL and triangular LQB can generate negative polarization charges in the graded composition layer, which leads to a significant increase in hole concentration compared to the conventional EBL and LQB structures. Meanwhile, the multigradient EBL can transform the conventional triangular barrier into an arc‐shaped barrier, increasing the electron potential barrier height and decreasing the hole potential barrier height. This unique design suppresses electron leakage and enhances hole injection, leading to a significant enhancement of the IQE and alleviation of the efficiency droop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soft‐bodied aquatic organisms and amphibians have different locomotion forms optimized for the living environment. With the increase of scientific research on oceanographic engineering, more and more researchers are paying attention to the underwater movement of bionic robots. Currently, underwater robots face two critical problems, that is, the inefficient actuation of traditional stimulatory response materials and the inability to ensure accurate spatiotemporal control of deformation. In this study, a soft stimulus‐responsive material is designed for remote cordless control in the water environment. An underwater bionic snake soft robot is fabricated using a temperature‐sensitive hydrogel Poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) and carbon nanotubes with the ability to convert light into heat. Tunable shape deformation and movement, including the concertina and serpentine locomotion of a light‐driven bionic snake soft robot, are realized by controlling the position of joints through light illumination. In addition, the transport of rod‐like objects, obstacle‐surmounting, and working on different surfaces are achieved by the bionic snake robot. This study will provide references for research on the multiple underwater locomotion forms of light‐driven soft robots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrochemical conversion of CO2 to highly valuable ethanol has been considered a intriguring strategy for carbon neutruality. However, the slow kinetics of coupling carbon‐carbon (C−C) bonds, especially the low selectivity ethanol than ethylene in neutral conditions, is a significant challenge. Herein, the asymmetrical refinement structure with enhanced charge polarization is built in the vertically oriented bimetallic organic frameworks (NiCu‐MOF) nanorod array with encapsulated Cu2O (Cu2O@MOF/CF), which can induce an intensive internal electric field to increase the C−C coupling for producing ethanol in neutral electrolyte. Particularly, when directly employed Cu2O@MOF/CF as the self‐supporting electrode, the ethanol faradaic efficiency (FEethanol) could reach maximum 44.3 % with an energy efficiency of 27 % at a low working‐potential of −0.615 V versus the reversible hydrogen electrode (vs. RHE) using CO2‐saturated 0.5 M KHCO3 as the electrolyte. Experimental and theoretical studies suggest that the polarization of atomically localized electric fields derived from the asymmetric electron distribution can tune the moderate adsorption of *CO to assist the C−C coupling and reduce the formation energy of H2CCHO*‐to‐*OCHCH3 for the generation of ethanol. Our research offers a reference for the design of highly active and selective electrocatalysts for reducing CO2 to multicarbon chemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LC‐2, is a molecule of proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs), with a large molecular weight, poor water solubility and low system bioavailability, which was designed to degrade KRASG12C protein. In this study, LC‐2 PEGylated liposomes were developed and characterized. Moreover, a rapid and sensitive liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) method in rat plasma was established and effectively utilized for an in vivo pharmacokinetic investigation. LC‐2 PEGylated liposomes with better properties were prepared by an improved ethanol injection method. The chromatographic separation was achieved on an Agilent Eclipse XDB‐CN column (100 × 2.1 mm, 3.5 μm) with acetonitrile–ammonium deionized water (5 mm; 80:20, v/v) at a flow rate of 0.5 ml/min. The mass spectra of LC‐2 and the IS (gefitinib) were obtained at m/z 1132.5 → 626.4 and 447.1 → 128.2, respectively. The pharmacokinetic study was carried out by analyzing plasma concentrations of LC‐2 solution or produced LC‐2 PEGylated liposomes in rats using the developed and validated method. The pharmacokinetic results indicate that PEGylated liposome‐encapsulation protected LC‐2 from the influence of endogenous protein binding, improved insolubility, prolonged half‐life and increased system bioavailability. This study provides a feasible solution for future preclinical and clinical studies of LC‐2 and/or other PROTACs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A number of recalcitrant phaeohyphomycosis cases with a life‐threatening prognosis have been observed in CARD9‐deficient patients, but little is known about the long‐term management strategies that are effective for such intractable individuals. Objectives: To study the genetic and immunological mechanisms underlying recalcitrant phaeohyphomycosis and to share our clinical experiences regarding its treatment. Patients/Methods: Ten CARD9‐deficient patients with recalcitrant phaeohyphomycosis admitted to our centre in the past two decades were followed‐up, and their clinical presentations, laboratory findings, treatment and prognoses were analysed; one of them was a novel case of recalcitrant phaeohyphomycosis harbouring CARD9 mutations. Innate and adaptive immunological responses of patient‐derived peripheral blood mononuclear cells were evaluated using ELISA and flow cytometry. Results: We identified a total of seven CARD9 mutations in the ten analysed patients. Moreover, patient‐derived cells exhibited a significant impairment of innate and adaptive immune responses upon fungus‐specific stimulation. All the patients experienced recurrence and exacerbation; four of them died, two exhibited continued disease progress with unsatisfactory therapeutic efficacy, three showed obvious improvement under maintenance therapy, and only one achieved a clinical cure. Conclusions: Our study highlighted that otherwise healthy patients diagnosed with early‐onset, unexplained and recalcitrant phaeohyphomycosis should be analysed for CARD9 mutations and immune deficiency. Thereafter, the length and choice of management remain challengeable and must be adjusted based on the clinical presentations and responses of patients over their lifetimes. Although continued posaconazole treatment may be the promising first‐line therapy at present, novel strategies are worth exploring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cisplatin resistance is among the main reasons for the poor prognosis of ovarian cancer (OC) patients. Until now, effective biomarkers for predicting cisplatin resistance in OC and specific drugs for reversing this resistance are lacking. This study identified the critical gene associated with cisplatin resistance in OC and provided a potential target for overcoming this resistance. Methods: Differentially expressed genes between cisplatin‐resistant and ‐sensitive OCs were identified by screening public datasets. Survival analysis was conducted to screen prognosis‐related DEGs. CIBERSORT, ESTIMATE, and immune checkpoint genes were used to assess the association between EMP1 expression and tumor microenvironment features. CTRP and GDSC databases were employed to analyze the correlation between EMP1 expression and cisplatin resistance. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry, qPCR, Western blotting, siRNA interference, and the CCK8 assay were performed to verify the role of EMP1 in cisplatin resistance in vitro. Finally, xenograft mouse models were generated to further confirm the role of EMP1 in cisplatin resistance in vivo. Results: EMP1 was identified as a critical gene associated with cisplatin resistance in OC. According to bioinformatics analyses, increased EMP1 expression was linked to higher stromal/ESTIMATE scores as well as greater ICG expression levels. The in vitro experiments showed that EMP1 was highly expressed in cisplatin‐resistant OC tissues and cells, and silencing this EMP1 expression enhanced OC cell sensitivity to cisplatin. Finally, in vivo experiments confirmed that EMP1 promotes tumor growth and cisplatin resistance. Conclusions: EMP1 can act as a predictive biomarker for cisplatin resistance in OC and as a potential therapeutic target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Pulsed electric field (PEF) treatment is currently a hot spot in food science research. The improvement and regulation of protein structure and physicochemical properties after PEF treatment are a new development in its processing technology. This study aimed to clarify the effects of moderate‐intensity PEF treatment on the structure and physicochemical properties of foxtail millet (Setaria italica) prolamin and its action rules. Findings: PEF treatment changed the spatial conformation of millet prolamin, increased its hydrophobicity and solubility in alcohol solution, but did not change the subunit composition distribution. It also promoted the increase in soluble aggregates, resulting in an increase in protein particle size. The α‐helix content of the protein decreased, the β‐sheet content increased, the number of disulfide bonds increased, and the protein structure became more orderly after treatment. Conclusions: The results showed that the structure and physicochemical properties of millet prolamin significantly changed after the moderate‐intensity PEF treatment. Significance and Novelty: The increased hydrophobicity of prolamin makes it a strong future candidate in medicinal excipients, food packaging materials, and biodegradable polymers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bismuth‐based electrocatalysts are promising candidates for electrochemical CO2 reduction to formate attributing to the accelerated formation of *OCHO intermediate, while the high‐energy consumption remains a major challenge for practicability. Herein, we present the ultrathin Bi2O2CO3 nanosheets with abundant oxygen vacancy (Vo‐BOC‐NS) reconstructed from S, N‐co‐doped bismuth oxides that can act as durable electrocatalyst for CO2‐to‐formate conversion with faradic efficiency (FEformate) of >95%, partial current density of 286 mA cm−2 with energy efficiency of 73.8% at −0.62 V (vs. RHE) and low overpotential of 200 mV in a flow electrolyzer. The theoretical calculations decipher that the oxygen vacancy can optimize *OCOH adsorption/desorption for the accelerated conversion kinetics. The pair‐electrosynthesis tactic of formate co‐production can enable a superior FEformate of >90% at wide cell voltage of 2–3.3 V and total yield rate of 3742 μmol cm−2 h−1 at 3.3 V, suggesting great potential for future industrialization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On‐board energy storage devices (OESD) and energy‐efficient train timetabling (EETT) are considered two effective ways to improve the usage rate of regenerative braking energy (RBE) of subway trains. EETT is less costly but has lower ceilings, whereas OESD, although expensive, maximizes the reuse of RBE. To make the RBE usage rate of the train group reach the required target, a typical problem is how to use the OESD with the minimum capacity to reduce the cost. With this consideration, this paper proposes an optimization method that combines EETT and OESD. In this method, the joint optimization of timetable and OESD capacity allocation in case OESDs of different capacities can be carried between trains is considered to further improve the optimization. A non‐linear programming model is built to minimize the total OESD capacity of the train group under the constraint of reaching target RBE usage. An efficient heuristic algorithm is designed to simultaneously obtain the optimal timetable and the matching capacity allocation scheme of OESDs. Finally, some simulation cases based on real‐line data are designed to verify the effectiveness of the method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: As an important trait in crop breeding, plant height is associated with lodging resistance and yield. With the identification and cloning of several semi‐dwarfing genes, increasing numbers of semi‐dwarf cultivars have emerged, which has led to a 'green revolution' in rice (Oryza sativa) production. In this study, we identified a rice semi‐dwarf mutant, semi‐dwarf 38 (sd38), which showed significantly reduced cell length. SD38 encodes a fatty acid elongase, β‐ketoacyl‐CoA synthase, which is involved in the synthesis of very‐long‐chain fatty acids (VLCFAs). Expression analysis showed that SD38 was localized on the membrane of the endoplasmic reticulum, and was expressed in all analyzed tissues with differential abundance. The mutation of SD38 affected lipid metabolism in the sd38 mutant. A functional complementarity test in Saccharomyces cerevisiae indicated that SD38 was capable of complementing the deficiency of ELO3p activity in BY4741‐elo3 knockout yeast cells by participating in the synthesis of C24:0 VLCFA. Significant changes were observed in the expression of genes involved in ethylene synthesis, which resulted in reduced content of the ethylene precursor 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylic acid (ACC) in the sd38 mutant. Exogenously supplied VLCFA (C24:0) increased the expression levels of OsACS3, OsACS4, and OsACO7 and the plant height of sd38 mutant seedlings, similar to the effect of exogenous application of ACC and ethephon. These results reveal a relationship among VLCFAs, ethylene biosynthesis, and plant height and improve our understanding of plant height development in crops. Significance Statement: Here, we identified a semi‐dwarf rice (Oryza sativa) mutant caused by mutation of SD38, which encodes a β‐ketoacyl‐CoA synthase family member involved in the synthesis of C24:0 very‐long‐chain fatty acids (VLCFAs), thereby affecting ethylene biosynthesis by regulating the transcription of OsACS3, OsACS4, and OsACO7. This study sheds light on the relationship among VLCFAs, ethylene biosynthesis, and plant height and improves our understanding of plant height development in crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intensified perfusion processes are an integral part of continuous manufacturing for biopharmaceuticals which enable agile operations and significant reduction in cost of goods. However, they require large volumes of media to support robust cell growth and maintain high productivity, posing substantial challenges to operations, logistics, and process sustainability. This study explores a novel strategy for reprocessing and reusing permeate from perfusion cultures for mAb production. The concept was initially evaluated by recycling permeate, Protein A flow‐through (ProA FT) and CEX processed ProA FT in deep‐well plate mock perfusion and ambr® 250 perfusion formats. Further processing of ProA FT through a cation exchange depth filter before recycling reduced process impurities such as host cell proteins (HCPs) and DNA. However, a direct replacement of fresh media with spent media reduces nutrient depth which results in a concomitant reduction in productivity. In ambr® 250 bioreactors, recycling of ProA FT at 25%–50% replacement rates (defined as the fraction of recycled material in media) resulted in a 13%–30% reduction in cumulative productivity while maintaining product quality. To mitigate this, we used media concentrates which allowed independent modulation of media depth by replacing a portion of diluent WFI with recycled material. Results from deep‐well mock perfusion studies demonstrated that comparable or higher productivities relative to control can be achieved with this approach. Taken together, our study demonstrates the feasibility of recycling permeate in perfusion cultures. Process mass intensity (PMI) calculations reveal that this approach can meaningfully improve material efficiency by reducing water consumption, thereby enhancing overall bioprocess sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clay mineral‐based inorganic pigments have been successfully applied for synchronous coloring and reinforcing requirements of plastic products owing to excellent environmental stability and weather resistance compared with organic dyes. In order to improve the common solid or liquid‐phase preparation process of clay mineral‐based inorganic pigments, kaolin@BiVO4 hybrid pigments were fabricated by a cleaner mechanochemical method followed by annealing process for coloring and reinforcing of acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene (ABS) resin. Kaolin@BiVO4 hybrid pigments calcined at 500°C presented the optimum chroma (L* = 77.45, a* = −1.88, b* = 81.93, C* = 81.95, and h° = 91.32), and kaolin@BiVO4 hybrid pigments modified with 3‐methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane exhibited the good coloring properties in ABS matrix due to the improvement of surface/interfacial compatibility between pigments and ABS. Moreover, the tensile strength and bending strength of ABS composites containing 0.5 wt% of the modified kaolin@BiVO4 hybrid pigments increased by 10.2% and 20.2% compared with that of the pure ABS, respectively. In addition, incorporation of kaolin@BiVO4 hybrid pigments also contributed to improving the UV‐aging resistance of ABS. Therefore, the as‐prepared kaolin@BiVO4 hybrid pigments based on the cleaner mechanochemical preparation process can be served as promising multifunctional fillers of polymer matrix due to the synergistic effect between kaolin and BiVO4 pigments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arginine (Arg) is an important essential amino acid required for optimum fish growth. However, its role in plant‐rich diets on growth and the required level in juvenile Hemibagrus wyckioides are currently unknown. This study evaluated the effects of Arg supplementation in plant‐rich diets on growth, feed utilization, whole body composition, blood biochemical indicators and gene expressions of the target of rapamycin (TOR) signaling pathway in juvenile H. wyckioides. A total of 450 fish (6.40 ± 0.06 g) were randomized into six equal groups and fed on diets with graded Arg levels: 0 (control), 3, 6, 9, 12 and 15 g/kg of dry feed for eight weeks. The results revealed that specific growth rate (SGR) and feed conversion ratio of juvenile H. wyckioides were significantly improved and reduced, respectively in fish fed on 9 g/kg of Arg supplementation (p <.05). The optimum amount of dietary Arg content in plant‐rich diets for H. wyckioides was 63.77 g/kg diet based on SGR. Feeding fish with dietary Arg supplementation ranging from 9 to 12 g/kg improved significantly (p <.05) whole body protein contents and decreased lipid deposition. The mRNA levels of TOR, eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (4EBP) and ribosomal protein S6 kinase 1 (S6K1) in muscle and liver were significantly affected by increasing dietary Arg levels. Meanwhile, the mRNA relative expression levels of TOR and S6K1 in the liver and muscle increased significantly as Arg supplementation increased. On the other hand, the mRNA relative expression levels of 4EBP was significantly higher in fish fed on the 9 g/kg Arg diet compared to those fed on the control and 15 g/kg Arg diets. In conclusion, our current results indicate that dietary Arg supplementation in plant‐rich diets, might activate the TOR signaling pathway, which promotes protein synthesis and reduces lipid accumulation of H. wyckioides, resulting in improved growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heteroatom doping has been increasingly applied to enhance the electrochemical performance of carbon materials when used as supercapacitor electrodes. However, the use of doped electrode by itself often does not provide sufficiently high performance for aqueous‐based supercapacitor. Here, a high‐performance supercapacitor was developed, using nitrogen‐doped microporous carbon spheres‐based materials and a redox‐active electrolyte as electrodes and electrolyte, respectively. The doped electrode, which was produced via template and self‐assembly routes, exhibited a well‐developed microporous structure, large specific surface area, and abundant heteroatoms. The combination of the heteroatom‐doped electrode and KI‐H2SO4 electrolyte in supercapacitor substantially increased the specific capacitance, from 230 F g−1 to 532 mAh g−1. Such a large enhancement was attributed to the addition of KI as a redox mediator in the aqueous electrolyte. The NCS‐800 supercapacitor has a specific capacity as high as 68 mAh g−1 (at a 1 A g−1 current density) in KI‐H2SO4 electrolyte. It could retain 57 % of capacitance even after maintaining a constant voltage of 1 V for 5 hours, highlighting its good electrochemical performance of NCS‐800 as a supercapacitor electrode material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mucorales, as one major order of Zygomycetes fungi, can infect human beings and cause serious consequence. We have noticed the pathogenicity of Mucorales is closely related to energy metabolism, while mitochondria play the role of energy factories in almost all biological activities. Methods: Virulence of M irregularis, M hiemalis, L corymbifera and R arrhizus were verified in Galleria mellonella larvae, as well as mitochondrial gene copies analysed with RT‐qPCR. Mitogenomes of the four Mucorales species were sequenced based on illumina NovaSeq technology to study their characteristic features and functional regions. Results: Variant virulence of M irregularis, M hiemalis, L corymbifera and R arrhizu were verified by clinical retrospective data and our G mellonella infection models, also copies of mitochondrial genes indicated the significant associations with pathogenicity. A total of 274.18 clean reads were generated to be assembled; the complete mitogenomes of the four Mucorales species were obtained with totally different length. After the genomes annotated and compared, M irregularis was found more similar with M hiemalis than those of L corymbifera and R arrhizus, especially the small (rrns) and large (rrnl) subunits of mitochondrial ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes. The GC content, ncRNAs and the distribution of the SNPs and InDels were also compared, and the GC content rate of fungi seems to be related to the fungal thermal adaptability. In addition, linear mitogenomes of these four Mucorales showed diverse arrangements of orf genes and directionality of some conserved gene elements. Conclusion: This study uncovered the pathogenicity variances among the four Mucorales species and the relationship between their mitogenomic features and clinical pathogenicity. Further studies like spatial structure of mitochondrial genomes and the comprehensive analysis of transcription regulation are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seismic wave imaging in complex media requires an accurate wavefield simulation method that can accurately describethe wave propagation in realistic media. Reverse time‐depth migration is the preferred method for seismic wave imaging in complex media. Although it is relatively expensive, its imaging accuracy is usually better than migrations based on the ray method. Migration of primary reflection data requires a wave propagation simulation method that can accurately describe primary reflected/scattered wave energy and incorporate anisotropy. Accordingly, we propose the simulation of wave propagation in tilted transversely isotropic media using a 15° one‐way wave equation in a ray‐centred coordinate system, combining the flexibility of ray theory and the accuracy of wave theory. We use this equation to describe the propagation of body waves in a single ray tube, a 'beam'. The wavefield along the beam, guided by its central raypath, has an angle limit defined only by the ray angle; therefore, wave propagation in complex and steeply dipping media can be simulated with a 15° one‐way wave equation. Numerical experiments show that the simulation results for beam propagation using the 15° equation in the ray‐centred coordinate system have good accuracy. For prestack depth migration in tilted transversely isotropic media, we built a beam imaging method using this propagator, and this migration method yielded accurate images with greater efficiency than reverse time‐depth migration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To describe secular trends in diagnosed type 2 diabetes prevalence and incidence in Beijing, China. Methods: Using health insurance claims for 17.7 million adults ≥20 years in 2008–2017, we identified people with diabetes using hospital diagnoses and drug prescriptions. Results were age‐standardised using data for Beijing from China's 2010 census. Trends in prevalence and incidence were analysed using Joinpoint regression analysis. Results: From 2008 to 2017, we identified 2,104,159 people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes prevalence increased from 3.7% [95% CI: (3.6, 3.8)] to 6.6% (6.4, 6.7), but the annual rate of increase slowed from 18.1% (14.4, 22.0) to 1.5% (0.8, 2.2) before and after 2011 respectively. Women had a higher diabetes prevalence than men, for all years. The yearly increase in prevalence was greater in people younger than 40 years, with an average annual percentage change of 13.6% (10.7, 16.5) compared to 6.5% (5.6, 7.4) in those over 40 years. Over the 10 years, the overall incidence decreased from 24.3 (24.2, 24.4) to 11.5 (11.5, 11.6) per 1000 person‐years, but it increased in people younger than 40 years. The average age at diabetes diagnosis dropped from 62 to 56 years (p < 0.001). Among incident cases of diabetes, the percentage of people under 40 years increased from 3.0% to 10.9% (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The prevalence of diagnosed type 2 diabetes in Beijing increased continuously over the 10 years, the incidence decreased, except in people under 40 years. Continuous efforts are needed to prevent diabetes in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Drive line infections (DLIs) are common complications of left ventricular assist devices (LVADs). Data on use of suppression antibiotic therapy are limited. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of 451 patients who underwent LVAD placement from January 2009 to May 2015. First superficial DLIs were included for analysis. We examined factors associated with the use of chronic suppressive antibiotics (CSAs) therapy. Cox proportional hazards models were performed to identify factors associated with DLI relapse with the same organism as the initial DLI. Results: A total of 69 patients developed a superficial DLI within a median of 195 (interquartile range [IQR] 98–348) days of LVAD insertion. The median age was 57 years, 87% were males, and 74% were White. Gram positive bacteria caused 61% of infections, with Staphylococcus aureus being the most common (35%). Forty‐three (62%) patients received suppressive antibiotic therapy. Relapse DLI occurred in 29 (42%) patients. Independent risk factors for relapse infection in multivariable analysis were sepsis (aHR 5.94 [CI 1.42–24.92]), and MRSA DLI (aHR 4.19 [CI 1.37–12.79]). There was no difference in the proportion of patients with relapse among those who were treated with antibiotic suppression therapy versus not (44% vs. 38%, p = 0.64), although relapse occurred at a later time in those who received suppression (185 vs. 69 days, p < 0.01). Conclusion: CSA therapy was associated with delayed time to DLI relapse but no significant difference in the proportion of patients with relapse. A prospective study is needed to examine the effect of suppression on relapse rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is widely accepted that anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC), a rare, extremely aggressive malignant, is enriched by cancer stem cells (CSCs), which are closely related to the pathogenesis of ATC. In the present study, we demonstrated that diallyl trisulphide (DATS), a well‐known hydrogen sulphide (H2S) donor, suppressed sphere formation and restored the expression of iodide‐metabolizing genes in human ATC cells, which were associated with H2S generation. Two other H2S donors, NaHS and GYY4137, could also suppress the self‐renewal properties of ATC cells in vitro. Compared with normal thyroid tissues and papillary thyroid carcinomas (PTCs), the elevated expressions of SOX2 and MYC, two cancer stem cell markers, in ATCs were validated in the combined Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) cohort. DATS decreased the expression of SOX2, which was mediated by H2S generation. Furthermore, knockdown of AKT or inhibition of AKT by DATS led to a decrease of SOX2 expression in ATC cells. AKT knockdown phenocopied restoration of thyroid‐specific gene expression in ATC cells. Our data suggest that H2S donors treatment can compromise the stem cell phenotype and restore thyroid‐specific gene expression of ATC cells by targeting AKT‐SOX2 pathway, which may serve as a therapeutic strategy to intervene the CSC progression of ATC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mechanical processes operating on the slope surface or at depth control the dynamics of alpine landforms and hold critical information of their geomorphological characteristics, yet they often lack systematic quantification and in‐depth interpretation. This study aims to address a long‐standing issue concerning geomorphological classification from a kinematic perspective. A group of periglacial landforms consisting of several lobes were discovered in the East Kunlun Mountains of China 30 years ago but were ambiguously classified as rock glaciers and later as gelifluction deposits. Here, we use satellite Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar to quantitatively characterize the spatial and temporal changes of the surface movement of these landforms. We observe that: (1) its 17 lobes show a pattern of landform‐scale and uniform surface movement, especially during May to October; (2) the lobes move at a spatial mean downslope velocity of 10 to 60 cm/yr and a maximum velocity as high as 100 cm/yr in summer; (3) the landforms are nearly inactive from winter to late spring. Based on these observations, we postulate that the movement of the lobes are driven by deep‐seated permafrost creep which typically occurs in rock glaciers. The debris of Lobe No.4 is composed of both boulders and pebbles supported by fine‐grained matrix generated from the in situ weathering process. It develops a talus‐like oversteepened front around 40° and a convex transverse profile perpendicular to the creep direction, which are also characteristic features of a rock glacier. Piecing these observations together, we identify Lobe No.4 as a debris‐mantled‐slope‐connected rock glacier, with the gelifluction process occurring on the surface as small‐scale and discrete events. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing evidence has suggested a critical role for endothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) in a variety of pathological conditions. MicroRNA‐200c‐3p (miR‐200c‐3p) has been implicated in epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition. However, the functional role of miR‐200c‐3p in EndoMT and neointimal hyperplasia in artery bypass grafts remains largely unknown. Here we demonstrated a critical role for miR‐200c‐3p in EndoMT. Proteomics and luciferase activity assays revealed that fermitin family member 2 (FERM2) is the functional target of miR‐200c‐3p during EndoMT. FERMT2 gene inactivation recapitulates the effect of miR‐200c‐3p overexpression on EndoMT, and the inhibitory effect of miR‐200c‐3p inhibition on EndoMT was reversed by FERMT2 knockdown. Further mechanistic studies revealed that FERM2 suppresses smooth muscle gene expression by preventing serum response factor nuclear translocation and preventing endothelial mRNA decay by interacting with Y‐box binding protein 1. In a model of aortic grafting using endothelial lineage tracing, we observed that miR‐200c‐3p expression was dramatically up‐regulated, and that EndoMT contributed to neointimal hyperplasia in grafted arteries. MiR‐200c‐3p inhibition in grafted arteries significantly up‐regulated FERM2 gene expression, thereby preventing EndoMT and reducing neointimal formation. Importantly, we found a high level of EndoMT in human femoral arteries with atherosclerotic lesions, and that miR‐200c‐3p expression was significantly increased, while FERMT2 expression levels were dramatically decreased in diseased human arteries. Collectively, we have documented an unexpected role for miR‐200c‐3p in EndoMT and neointimal hyperplasia in grafted arteries. Our findings offer a novel therapeutic opportunity for treating vascular diseases by specifically targeting the miR‐200c‐3p/FERM2 regulatory axis. © 2020 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been reported that chemokine CX3CL1 can regulate various tumours by binding to its unique receptor CX3CR1. However, the effect of CX3CL1‐CX3CR1 on the lung adenocarcinoma and lung squamous cell carcinoma is still unclear. Here, we showed that CX3CL1 can further invasion and migration of lung adenocarcinoma A549 and lung squamous cell carcinoma H520. In addition, Western blot and immunofluorescence test indicated CX3CL1 up‐regulated the phosphorylation level of cortactin, which is a marker of cell pseudopodium. Meanwhile, the phosphorylation levels of c‐Src and c‐Abl, which are closely related to the regulation of cortactin phosphorylation, are elevated. Nevertheless, the src/abl inhibitor bosutinib and mutations of cortactin phosphorylation site could inhibit the promotion effect of CX3CL1 on invasion and migration of A549 and H520. Moreover, these results of MTT, Hoechst staining and Western blot suggested that CX3CL1 had no effect on the proliferation and apoptosis of A549 and H520 in vitro. The effects of CX3CL1 were also verified by the subcutaneous tumour formation in nude mice, which showed that it could promote proliferation and invasion of A549 in vivo. In summary, our results indicated that CX3CL1 furthered invasion and migration in lung cancer cells partly via activating cortactin, and CX3CL1 may be a potential molecule in regulating the migration and invasion of lung cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This article contributes to a detailed convergence analysis of iterative learning control for singular conformable differential equations with one‐sided Lipschitz nonlinearity. In order to track the desired reference trajectory in a finite time interval, a closed‐loop D‐type learning update law is proposed for such nonlinear systems. Here, the strict convergence analysis is derived under the condition of identical initial state. A numerical example is provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed controller. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel colourimetric method for the detection of nitrite in food samples using digital image colourimetry (DIC) by smartphone is developed. Nitrite directly oxidise 3,3′,5,5′‐tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) to form a yellow TMB diimine (oxTMB). A smartphone was used to capture the image of an inherent colour variation and analyse the image with the RGB (red, green, and blue) model, achieving the quantitative detection of nitrite. Linear response for the detection of nitrite was obtained from 10 μmol L−1 to 440 μmol L−1 and the limit of quantification was 2.34 μmol L−1. The applicability of the method was confirmed by the detection of nitrite in cabbage, pickle, and ham. The recovery was varied in the range from 96.2 % to 108.2 % with a relative standard deviation of less than 5.0 %. The simple, sensitive, and inexpensive method was an alternative for the detection of nitrite in food samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In phosphate (Pi)‐deprived Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), phosphatidylglycerol (PG) is substituted by sulfolipid for maintaining Pi homeostasis. Sulfoquinovosyl diacylglycerol1 (AtSQD1) encodes a protein, which catalyzes uridine diphosphate glucose (UDPG) and sulfite (SO32−) to UDP‐sulfoquinovose, which is a key component in the sulfolipid biosynthetic pathway. In this study, a reverse genetics approach was employed to decipher the function of the AtSQD1 homolog OsSQD1 in rice. Differential expressions of OsSQD1 in different tissue and response to −P and −S also detected, respectively. The in vitro protein assay and analysis suggests that OsSQD1 is a UDP‐sulfoquinovose synthase. Transient expression analysis showed that OsSQD1 is located in the chloroplast. The analyses of the knockout (ossqd1) and knockdown (Ri1 and Ri2) mutants demonstrated reductions in Pi and total P concentrations, 32Pi uptake rate, expression levels of Pi transporters and altered developmental responses of root traits, which were accentuated during Pi deficiency. The inhibitory effects of the OsSQD1 mutation were also evident in the development of reproductive tissue. Furthermore, OsSQD1 differently affects lipid composition under different Pi regime affects sulfur (S) homeostasis. Together, the study revealed that OsSQD1 affects Pi and S homeostasis, and lipid composition in response to Pi deprivation. The mutation in OsSQD1 affected several morphophysiological and molecular traits governing homeostasis of Pi, S and lipid composition in the whole plant. The positive influence of OsSQD1 was also evident on the developmental responses of different root and reproductive traits under different Pi regime. The study thus highlighted a broad spectrum role of OsSQD1 in Pi and S homeostasis, and lipid composition in response to Pi deprivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: A total of 214 taste compounds were identified in soy sauce by silane derivatisation coupled with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (SD‐GC‐MS), including 74 kinds of sugars. The proportion of total sugars is highest from 37.24–77.24% among all taste compounds. In particular, rare sugars were detected and identified as the special compounds in soy sauce which come from the sugar metabolism. Rare sugars identified in soy sauce by traditional fermented technology were prominent than Japanese technology. Principal component analysis (PCA) investigation of these results showed that samples can be distinguished by sugars as the first principal component and the general evaluation index (GEI) of samples was consistent with the result of sensory evaluation. Meanwhile, sweetness had the maximum range (from −9.89 to 14.10) in all taste indexes by electronic tongue (E‐tongue) analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diallyl trisulfide (DATS), derived from garlic, is a well-known hydrogen sulfide (H2 S) donor. H2 S has recently emerged as a novel gasotransmitter involved in the regulation of cancer progression. The present study demonstrated that DATS along with other two H2 S donors, NaHS and GYY4137, significantly inhibited papillary thyroid carcinoma KTC-1 cells growth. DATS treatment triggered a rapid H2 S generation within 5 min in KTC-1 cells. Iodoacetamide, a potent thiol blocker reagent, partially rescued the cell membrane damage and ultimate cell death induced by DATS, indicating H2 S contributed to the apoptosis-inducing efficacy of DATS on thyroid cancer cells. Specifically, DATS treatment significantly upregulated the expression and enzymatic activity of cystathionine gamma-lyase (CTH), one of H2 S-producing enzymes, which was responsible for endogenous H2 S generation. After DATS treatment, H2 S quickly permeated cell membranes and activated NF-κΒ/p65 signaling pathway in KTC-1 cells. Nuclear translocated NF-κB bound to the promoter of CTH to enhance its transcription. These evidences proved that exogenous H2 S elevated CTH expression. CTH, in turn, catalytically generated a much higher level of endogenous H2 S. This positive feedback sustained excess H2 S production, which resulted in PTC cells growth inhibition. These findings may shed light on the development of novel H2 S-based antitumor agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autophagy and cellular senescence are two critical responses of mammalian cells to stress and may have a direct relationship given that they respond to the same set of stimuli, including oxidative stress, DNA damage, and telomere shortening. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have emerged as reliable cell sources for stem cell transplantation and are currently being tested in numerous clinical trials. However, the effects of autophagy on MSC senescence and corresponding mechanisms have not been fully evaluated. Several studies demonstrated that autophagy level increases in aging MSCs and the downregulation of autophagy can delay MSC senescence, which is inconsistent with most studies that showed autophagy could play a protective role in stem cell senescence. To further study the relationship between autophagy and MSC senescence and explore the effects and mechanisms of premodulated autophagy on MSC senescence, we induced the up‐ or down‐regulation of autophagy by using rapamycin (Rapa) or 3‐methyladenine, respectively, before MSC senescence induced by D‐galactose (D‐gal). Results showed that pretreatment with Rapa for 24 hours remarkably alleviated MSC aging induced by D‐gal and inhibited ROS generation. p‐Jun N‐terminal kinases (JNK) and p‐38 expression were also clearly decreased in the Rapa group. Moreover, the protective effect of Rapa on MSC senescence can be abolished by enhancing the level of ROS, and p38 inhibitor can reverse the promoting effect of H2O2 on MSC senescence. In summary, the present study indicates that autophagy plays a protective role in MSC senescence induced by D‐gal, and ROS/JNK/p38 signalling plays an important mediating role in autophagy‐delaying MSC senescence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]