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Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) have garnered significant interest due to their potential as viable alternatives to conventional lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), particularly in environments where low-temperature (LT) performance is crucial. This paper provides a comprehensive review of current research on LT SIBs, focusing on electrode materials, electrolytes, and operational challenges specific to sub-zero conditions. Recent advancements in electrode materials, such as carbon-based materials and titanium-based materials, are discussed for their ability to enhance ion diffusion kinetics and overall battery performance at colder temperatures. The critical role of electrolyte formulation in maintaining battery efficiency and stability under extreme cold is highlighted, alongside strategies to mitigate capacity loss and cycle degradation. Future research directions underscore the need for further improvements in energy density and durability and scalable manufacturing processes to facilitate commercial adoption. Overall, LT SIBs represent a promising frontier in energy storage technology, with ongoing efforts aimed at overcoming technical barriers to enable widespread deployment in cold-climate applications and beyond.

The uneven soil fertility made it difficult to implement the recommended nitrogen (N) management practices in the North China Plain (NCP). In order to clarify the effect of N managements in high-fertility soil with a perennial wheat yield of 10,500 kg ha−1 on photosynthetic characteristics, grain yield, N agronomic efficiency (NAE), and water use efficiency (WUE), a trial was conducted from 2022 to 2024. Main plots were N rates of 0 (N1), 150 (N2), 210 (N3), and 270 (N4) kg N ha−1; The sub-plots adopted fertigation (F) and traditional fertilization method (T). The results showed that, compared with T, F increased the intercept rate of photosynthetic effective radiation of canopy, net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, and transpiration rate of flag leaves, as well as the activity of phosphate sucrose synthase and sucrose content. It enhanced dry matter transport and contribution to grain. Under N2, the time required to reach the maximum grain filling rate, duration of grain filling and active grain-filling period of F were improved. Grain yield of N2 was increased by 27.81% and 6.75% compared to N1 and N3, respectively. NAE was improved by 48.63% and 51.47%, and WUE was improved by 20.71% and 9.85%. Therefore, the best effect was achieved by using fertigation and the N rate of 210 kg ha−1 in high-fertility soil.

Isorhamnetin (ISO) is an active flavonoid compound mainly isolated from the fruits of Hippophae rhamnoides L. and the leaves of Ginkgo biloba L. Previous studies have revealed the antifibrotic action of ISO in the liver and lungs, although its potential protective effects against renal fibrosis and the underlying mechanisms are still poorly understood. Given that many actions of ISO could be similarly attained by hydrogen sulfide (H2S), we speculated that ISO may work through the induction of endogenous H2S. To test the hypothesis, we established the unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) renal fibrosis rat model and transforming growth factor-β1(TGF-β1)-induced fibrosis in cultured renal tubular cells. ISO treatment inhibited epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) formation, decreased extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, and relieved renal fibrosis. Further analysis revealed that ISO stimulated the expression of the H2S-synthesizing enzyme cystathionine lyase (CSE) and cystathionine beta-synthase (CBS), and promoted H2S production in vivo and in vitro. The elevated H2S attenuated oxidative stress and elevated the thiol level. It induced Keap1 sulfhydration, disrupted Keap1-Nrf2 interaction, and promoted the entry of Nrf2 into the nucleus. Finally, we found that circulating H2S mainly derived from the liver, and not the kidney. Collectively, our study revealed that ISO alleviated renal fibrosis by inducing endogenous H2S and regulating Keap1-Nrf2 interaction through sulfhydration of Keap1. Endogenous H2S could be an important mediator underlying the pharmacological actions of ISO. Due to the multifunctional properties of H2S, the H2S-inducing nature of ISO could be exploited to treat various diseases.

Faults, as a kind of fracture tectonics, play a role in reservoir closure or provide oil and gas transportation channels. The accurate understanding of the distribution characteristics of faults is significant for oil and gas exploration. The traditional fractal dimension for fault number (Df3) cannot comprehensively characterize the complexity and heterogeneity of fault network distribution. In this paper, a fractal characterization method on three-dimensional (3D) tortuosity of fault tectonics is proposed based on 3D seismic exploration. The methodology is described in detail to establish the model on the fractal dimension for the 3D tortuosity of fault tectonics. The results show the proposed method of estimation of the DT3 displaying high accuracy and rationality. Compared with the traditional fractal dimension Df3, the proposed DT3 can comprehensively characterize the fractal characteristics of faults network systems in the 3D space. This study achieves a breakthrough in the fractal characterization of the 3D tortuosity of fault tectonics. It is worth further study for establishing an analytical fractal equation based on the DT3 and oil or gas transfer, which can provide the theoretical foundation and technical support for oil and gas exploration.

Spherical quantum wells (SQWs) have proven to be excellent materials for suppressing Auger recombination due to their expanded confinement volume. However, research on the factors and mechanisms of their high-intensity optical properties, such as multiexciton properties and third-order optical nonlinearities, remains incomplete, limiting further optimization of these properties. Here, a series of CdS/CdSe (xML)/CdS SQWs with varying CdSe layer thicknesses were prepared. The modulation effects of CdSe shell variations on the PL properties, defect distribution, biexciton binding energy, and third-order optical nonlinearities of the SQWs were investigated, and their impact on the material’s multiexciton properties was further analyzed. Results showed that the typical CdS/CdSe(3ML)/CdS sample exhibited a large volume-normalized two-photon absorption cross-section (18.17 × 102 GM/nm3) and favorable biexciton characteristics. Optical amplification was observed at 12.4 μJ/cm2 and 1.02 mJ/cm2 under one-photon (400 nm) and two-photon (800 nm) excitation, respectively. Furthermore, different amplified spontaneous emission spectra were observed for the first time under one/two-photon excitation. This phenomenon was attributed to thermal effects overcoming the biexciton binding energy. This study provides valuable insights for further optimizing multiexciton gain characteristics in SQWs and developing optical gain applications.

Cardiac troponin I (cTnI) monitoring is of great value in the clinical diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). In this paper, a highly sensitive electrochemical aptamer sensor using polystyrene (PS) microspheres as the electrode substrate material in combination with Prussian blue (PB) and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) was demonstrated for the sensitive and label-free determination of cTnI. PS microspheres were synthesized by emulsion polymerization and then dropped onto the glassy carbon electrode (GCE); PB and AuNPs were electrodeposited on the electrode in corresponding electrolyte solutions step by step. The PS microsphere substrate provided a large surface area for the loading mass of the biological affinity aptamers, while the PB layer improved the electrical conductivity of the modified electrode, and the electroactive AuNPs exhibited excellent catalytic performance for the subsequent electrochemical measurements. In view of the above mentioned AuNPs/PB/PS/GCE sensing platform, the fabricated label-free electrochemical aptamer sensor exhibited a wide detection range of 10 fg/mL~1.0 μg/mL and a low detection limit of 2.03 fg/mL under the optimal conditions. Furthermore, this biosensor provided an effective detection platform for the analysis of cTnI in serum samples. The introduction of this sensitive electrochemical aptamer sensor provides a reference for clinically sensitive detection of cTnI.

Deep learning methods like convolution neural networks (CNNs) and transformers are successfully applied in hyperspectral image (HSI) classification due to their ability to extract local contextual features and explore global dependencies, respectively. However, CNNs struggle in modeling long-term dependencies, and transformers may miss subtle spatial-spectral features. To address these challenges, this paper proposes an innovative hybrid HSI classification method aggregating hierarchical spatial-spectral features from a CNN and long pixel dependencies from a transformer. The proposed aggregation multi-hierarchical feature network (AMHFN) is designed to capture various hierarchical features and long dependencies from HSI, improving classification accuracy and efficiency. The proposed AMHFN consists of three key modules: (a) a Local-Pixel Embedding module (LPEM) for capturing prominent spatial-spectral features; (b) a Multi-Scale Convolutional Extraction (MSCE) module to capture multi-scale local spatial-spectral features and aggregate hierarchical local features; (c) a Multi-Scale Global Extraction (MSGE) module to explore multi-scale global dependencies and integrate multi-scale hierarchical global dependencies. Rigorous experiments on three public hyperspectral image (HSI) datasets demonstrated the superior performance of the proposed AMHFN method.

The shortage of water resources seriously limits sustainable production in agriculture, and the ridge–furrow planting pattern is an effective water-saving cultivation pattern. However, the mechanism of the ridge–furrow planting pattern that drives the efficient utilization of field water resources in the North China Plain (NCP) is still unclear. A two-year field experiment was conducted in the NCP from 2021 to 2023. The ridge–furrow planting patterns followed a randomized block design as follows: ridge–furrow ratios of 50 cm:50 cm (M2), 75 cm:50 cm (M3), and 100 cm:50 cm (M4). A traditional planting pattern was used as the control (M1). These were used to investigate the effects of different treatments on water use and roots. The results showed that M3 reduced the amount of irrigation, improved water distribution after irrigation, increased water use efficiency (WUE), and promoted root growth. Compared with other treatments, M3 increased soil water consumption at a 0–100 cm soil depth by 6.76–21.34% (average values over two years), root length density by 8.46–20.77%, and root surface area density by 7.87–22.13%. On average, M3 increased grain yields by 3.96–9.80%, biomass yields by 5.32–10.94%, and WUE by 4.5–9.87%. In conclusion, M3 is an effective planting pattern for improving the yield and WUE of wheat in the NCP.

Camellia oleifera C. Abel is a woody oil crop with multiple purposes. This study aims to investigate the mutagenic effects of 60Co-γ radiation on C. oleifera seedlings and to screen anthracnose-resistant mutants. Two C. oleifera varieties were investigated: ‘Xianglin 1’ (XL1) and ‘Xianglin 210’ (XL210). Seeds were irradiated with 0 Gy, 30 Gy, 50 Gy, and 80 Gy of 60Co-γ, and after one year of planting, the mutagenic lines were studied, and disease-resistant mutants were screened. Results showed that as the radiation intensity was increased, the emergence percentage of both C. oleifera XL210 and XL1 was significantly decreased. Radiation significantly changed the SOD and POD activities in both varieties. Furthermore, 80 Gy irradiated lines showed reduced anthracnose resistance in both varieties. However, 50 Gy irradiated lines showed enhanced disease resistance in XL210 while reducing it in XL1. The 30 Gy irradiated lines did not affect the disease resistance of either variety. Colletotrichum gloeosporioides infection tests were conducted on 94 mutant C. oleifera seedlings, resulting in 8 highly resistant mutants (A3, A8, A10, A19, A21, A32, A35, B17) and 3 susceptible mutants (A4, B15, B27) in XL210 and XL1. Differences in SOD and POD activities led to variations in disease resistance among different mutants. Additionally, the expression levels of CoSOD1, CoPOD, CoIDD4, and CoWKRY78 were varied among the different mutants. This study delivers the screening of disease-resistant mutants in C. oleifera through mutagenic breeding, providing material for the development of new C. oleifera varieties and serving as a resource for further research in mutagenic breeding.

The grapevine, a globally significant fruit and an essential fruit tree species in China, is vulnerable to the adverse effects of high temperatures. Understanding the roles of microRNA and transcription factors in plant development and stress resistance is crucial for mitigating the impact of high temperature on grape growth and yield. This study investigates the response of miRNA to high-temperature stress in grape leaves. The expression level of Vvi-miR3633a was found to be inhibited under heat treatment in both Thompson seedless and Shen yue varieties, while its potential target genes (Vv-Atg36 and Vv-GA3ox2) were induced. Through transgenic overexpression experiments, it was demonstrated that Vvi-miR3633a plays a role in thermal response by affecting the expression of target genes. Furthermore, under heat stress conditions, overexpression of Vvi-miR3633a in grape callus decreased heat resistance compared to the control group (CK). The study also revealed that the target genes of Vvi-miR3633a regulate the expression of oxidase synthesis genes VvSOD and VvCAT, leading to reduced oxidase synthesis which may compromise the oxidation system. Additionally, the expression level of heat shock proteins in the transgenic lines was changed compared to the control (CK). Overall, this research provides valuable insights into understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in different crossing/breeding programs to produce heat-resistant grape varieties. Such varieties can be appropriate to propagate in warm climate areas with high temperature conditions.

The development and application of virtual reality (VR) technology significantly enhances consumer immersion. Exploring a multi-sensory evaluation model for virtual packaging is valuable for integrating VR technology with packaging. This study developed a multi-sensory evaluation model for virtual packaging using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP). Eye-tracker experimentation was conducted to identify consumer attention indicators when interacting with virtual packaging. These indicators were quantified using Saaty’s nine-level importance scale and expert input, resulting in a comprehensive multi-sensory evaluation model. Subsequently, a VR shopping system focused on potato chips and cola as packaging design objects. This system was evaluated using the established model, and the results were analyzed. Based on the findings, improvements were made, and the system was re-evaluated using the modified model. The post-improvement evaluation demonstrated significantly enhanced sensory experiences. These results validate that the developed evaluation model effectively guides multi-sensory design approaches for packaging within a VR environment.

To reduce the mercury content in flue gas from coal-fired power plants and to obtain high-performance, low-cost mercury adsorbents, a novel composite material was prepared by structural design through the in situ growth method. Functionalization treatments such as the modification of functional groups and multilayer loading of polymetallic were conducted. These materials include the MOF material UiO-66 and modified biochar doped with Fe/Ce polymetallic, both of which contain unsaturated metal centrals and oxygen-containing functional groups. On the basis of obtaining the effects of adsorption temperature and composite ratio on the Hg0 removal characteristics, coupling and synergistic mechanisms between the various types of active centers included were investigated by using a variety of characterization and analysis tools. The active adsorption sites and oxidation sites were identified during this process, and the constitutive relationship between the physicochemical properties and the performance of Hg0 removal was established. The temperature-programmed desorption technique, Grand Canonical Monte Carlo simulation, and adsorption kinetic model were employed to reveal the mechanism of Hg0 removal. The results showed that the UiO-66-Br@MBC composite adsorbent possessed an excellent Hg0 removal performance at adsorption temperatures ranging from 50 to 250 °C, and targeted construction of adsorption and oxidation sites while maintaining thermal stability. The Hg0 removal by the composites is the result of both adsorption and oxidation. The micropores and small pore mesopores in the samples provide physical adsorption sites. The modified biochar acts as a carrier to facilitate the full exposure of the central metal zirconium ions, the formation of more active sites, and the process of electron transfer. The doping modification of the Br element can enhance the overall redox ability of the sample, and the introduced Fe and Ce polymetallic ions can work in concert to promote the oxidation process of Hg0. The excellent regulation of the ratio between adsorption and oxidation sites on the surface of the composite material finally led to a significant boost in the samples’ capacity to remove Hg0.

The efficient utilization of energy stands as a paramount priority on the international stage. Currently, there are various issues associated with the multi-power source couplers in automobiles. Addressing concerns related to the large size, poor reliability, low durability, and inefficient energy conversion of these couplers, a novel Permanent Magnet Synchronous Mechatronic-Electro-Hydraulic Coupler (MEHC) has been proposed. This system integrates a traditional permanent magnet synchronous machine with a swash plate axial piston pump/motor, enabling the mutual conversion of electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic energy. This paper primarily investigates the losses and efficiency of MEHC in both pure electric motor mode and electro-hydraulic coupling mode. Compared to our group’s previous Induction Asynchronous Mechatronic-Electro-Hydraulic Coupler (IA-MEHC), MEHC demonstrates lower losses and higher torque. Additionally, the paper also computes the electrical power external characteristics and comprehensive power external characteristics of the MEHC in pure electric motor mode. In the calculations within this paper, electric power is the primary power source, and in the electro-hydraulic coupling mode, hydraulics only provide auxiliary assistance. The research outlined in this paper lays a robust groundwork for future advancements and innovations in MEHC technology. With the capacity to bolster its performance, efficiency, and reliability, this groundwork holds the promise of accelerating the rapid development and widespread adoption of MEHC in automotive applications.

Abstract Robust anti‐counterfeiting techniques aim for easy identification while remaining difficult to forge, especially for high‐value items such as currency and passports. However, many existing anti‐counterfeiting techniques rely on deterministic processes, resulting in loopholes for duplication and counterfeiting. Therefore, achieving high‐level encryption and easy authentication through conventional anti‐counterfeiting techniques has remained a significant challenge. To address this, this work proposes a solution that combined fluorescence and structural colors, creating a physically unclonable multiplex encryption system (PUMES). In this study, the physicochemical properties of colloidal photonic inks are systematically adjusted to construct a comprehensive printing phase diagram, revealing the printable region. Furthermore, the brightness and color saturation of inkjet‐printed colloidal photonic crystal structural colors are optimized by controlling the substrate's hydrophobicity, printed droplet volume, and the addition of noble metals. Finally, fluorescence is incorporated to build PUMES, including macroscopic fluorescence and structural color patterns, as well as microscopic physically unclonable fluorescence patterns. The PUMES with intrinsic randomness and high encoding capacity are authenticated by a deep learning algorithm, which proved to be reliable and efficient under various observation conditions. This approach can provide easy identification and formidable resistance against counterfeiting, making it highly promising for the next‐generation anti‐counterfeiting of currency and passports.

Abstract Surface and satellite observations of atmospheric methane show smooth seasonal behavior in the Southern Hemisphere driven by loss from the hydroxyl (OH) radical. However, observations in the Northern Hemisphere show a sharp mid‐summer increase that is asymmetric with the Southern Hemisphere and not captured by the default configuration of the GEOS‐Chem chemical transport model. Using an ensemble of 22 OH model estimates and 24 wetland emission inventories in GEOS‐Chem, we show that the magnitude, latitudinal distribution, and seasonality of Northern Hemisphere wetland emissions are critical for reproducing the observed seasonality of methane in that hemisphere, with the interhemispheric OH ratio playing a lesser role. Reproducing the observed seasonality requires a wetland emission inventory with ∼80 Tg a−1 poleward of 10°N including significant emissions in South Asia, and an August peak in boreal emissions persisting into autumn. In our 24‐member wetland emission ensemble, only the LPJ‐wsl MERRA‐2 inventory has these attributes.

To investigate the expulsion effect of different expulsion modes on Hexagrammos otakii, this study examined various environmental conditions in an indoor tank. Specifically, different lighting conditions (white, blue, and green light at illumination intensities of 5000 lx, 8000 lx, and 10000 lx) were explored, as well as varied sound conditions (sound frequencies of 150 Hz, 300 Hz, and 450 Hz at different sound pressure levels of 130 dB, 140 dB, and 150 dB) and bubble curtain conditions (air volumes of 60 L/min, 120 L/min, and 180 L/min). Additionally, the expulsion effect of different fish densities (1.56 tails/m2, 2.35 tails/m2, 3.13 tails/m2) of Hexagrammos otakii was investigated. The findings revealed that the bubble curtain exhibited the most effective expulsion effect on Hexagrammos otakii, with an expulsion rate of (40.4 ± 12.0) %, the highest period of 53%, and an average expulsion distance of 3.0 expulsion intervals when the air volume was 180 L/min and the fish density was 1.56 tails/m2. Conversely, the expulsion effect of light and sound on Hexagrammos otakii was found to be insignificant, with the expulsion rate of sound not exceeding 20% and that of light being lower than 15%. These results have implications for the selection and design of fish expulsion equipment in offshore areas, such as those surrounding wind farms and nuclear power plants. Therefore, this study provides valuable scientific reference for resource managers and practitioners in the field.

Trustworthiness is the most significant predictor of trust and has a significant impact on people’s levels of trust. Most trustworthiness–related research is empirical, and while it has a long history, it is challenging for academics to get insights that are applicable to their fields of study and to successfully transfer fragmented results into practice. In order to grasp their dynamic development processes through the mapping of network knowledge graphs, this paper is based on the Web of Science database and uses CiteSpace (6.2.R4) software to compile and visualize the 1,463 publications on trustworthy studies over the past 10 years. This paper aims to provide valuable references to theoretical research and the practice of Trustworthiness. The findings demonstrate that: over the past 10 years, trustworthiness-related research has generally increased in volume; trustworthiness research is concentrated in industrialized Europe and America, with American research findings having a bigger global impact; The University of California System, Harvard University, and Yale University are among the high-production institutions; the leading figures are represented by Alexander Todorov, Marco Brambilla, Bastian Jaeger, and others; the core authors are distinguished university scholars; however, the level of cooperation of the core author needs to be improved. The primary journal for publishing research on trustworthiness is the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology and Biology Letters. In addition, the study focuses on three distinct domains, involving social perception, facial clues, and artificial intelligence.

IntroductionNumerous studies show that microbes in the human body are very closely linked to the human host and can affect the human host by modulating the efficacy and toxicity of drugs. However, discovering potential microbe-drug associations through traditional wet labs is expensive and time-consuming, hence, it is important and necessary to develop effective computational models to detect possible microbe-drug associations.MethodsIn this manuscript, we proposed a new prediction model named LCASPMDA by combining the learnable graph convolutional attention network and the self-paced iterative sampling ensemble strategy to infer latent microbe-drug associations. In LCASPMDA, we first constructed a heterogeneous network based on newly downloaded known microbe-drug associations. Then, we adopted the learnable graph convolutional attention network to learn the hidden features of nodes in the heterogeneous network. After that, we utilized the self-paced iterative sampling ensemble strategy to select the most informative negative samples to train the Multi-Layer Perceptron classifier and put the newly-extracted hidden features into the trained MLP classifier to infer possible microbe-drug associations.Results and discussionIntensive experimental results on two different public databases including the MDAD and the aBiofilm showed that LCASPMDA could achieve better performance than state-of-the-art baseline methods in microbe-drug association prediction.

Abstract 2D materials with long‐range ferromagnetic order hold promises for the development of compact spintronic devices with unprecedented multifunctionality and tunability. Among various 2D magnets, self‐intercalated transition metal chalcogenides Cr1+δTe2 exhibit unique features, especially excellent ambient stability and intrinsic ferromagnetic ordering above room temperature, which are critical requirements for real‐life device applications. Despite the many investigations of the magnetic properties of the Cr1+δTe2 family on the averaging macroscopic level, the domain evolution on the microscale, which is vital to nanoscale spintronics, is yet to be fully understood. Here, the evolution of magnetic behaviors of Cr0.92Te crystals is presented on both macro‐ and micro‐scales under magnetic field and thermal excitation. The crystal exhibits a high Curie temperature (Tc ≈ 343 K) among the Cr1+δTe2 family with weak magnetic anisotropy and in‐plane magnetic easy axis. Utilizing magnetic force microscopy, a pristine multidomain state and typical domain‐switching behavior are observed. Moreover, the evolution of domain texture under thermal excitation shows statistical power‐law scaling as approaching Tc. The results provide microscopic insight into the ferromagnetic behavior of a room‐temperature quasi‐2D crystal, which can be useful for further engineering of domain texture in low‐dimensional magnetic materials.

Di-hexyl phthalate (2-ethylhexyl) (DEHP) has been confirmed to cause female reproductive toxicity in humans and model animals by affecting the survival of ovarian granulosa cells (GCs), but the interrelationships between DEHP's on autophagy, apoptosis, and inflammation in GCs are not clear. Our previous study demonstrated that DEHP exposure resulted in the disturbance of intestinal flora associated with serum LPS release, which in turn led to impaired ovarian function. LPS has also been shown to determine cell fate by modulating cellular autophagy, apoptosis, and inflammation. Therefore, this study investigated the role and link between LPS and autophagy, apoptosis, and inflammation of GCs in DEHP-induced ovarian injury. Here, we constructed an in vivo injury model by continuous gavage of 0–1500 mg/kg of DEHP in female mice for 30 days and an in vitro injury model by treatment of human ovarian granulosa cells (KGN) cells with mono-2- ethylhexyl ester (MEHP, an active metabolite of DEHP in vivo). In addition, the expression of relevant pathway molecules was detected by immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, qRT-PCR, and Western blotting after the addition of the autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3-MA), the apoptosis inhibitor Z-VAD- FMK and the NF-κB inhibitor BAY11-7082. The current study found that autophagy and apoptosis were significantly activated in GCs of DEHP-induced atretic follicles in vivo and found that MEHP-induced KGN cells autophagy and apoptosis were independent and potentially cytotoxic of each other in vitro. Further studies confirmed that DEHP exposure resulted in LPS release from the intestinal tract and entering the ovary, thereby participating in DEHP-induced inflammation of GCs. In addition, we found that exogenous LPS synergized with MEHP could activate the NF-κB signaling pathway to induce inflammation and apoptosis of GCs in a relatively prolonged exposure condition. Meanwhile, inhibition of inflammatory activation could rescue apoptosis and estrogen secretion function of GCs induced by MEHP combined with LPS. These results indicated that the increased LPS influenced by DEHP might cooperate with MEHP to induce inflammatory apoptosis of GCs, an important cause of ovarian injury in mice.

A compact high-power 2.8-µm laser with a 2 at.%-doped Er3+:CaF2 crystal was demonstrated, which delivered a maximum output power of 2.848 W with a slope efficiency of 26.3 %. To the best of our knowledge, this is the highest output power among all the reported LD end-pumped Er3+-doped fluoride crystal lasers. Experimentally, the negative thermal lens effect was characterized and the thermal lens optical diopters for two axes were obtained as Mx = -0.21 m−1/W and My = -0.33 m−1/W. In addition, the visible fluorescence spectra of Er3+:CaF2 crystal with and without laser operation were measured and analyzed. With Fe2+:ZnSe as saturable absorber, a passively Q-switched 2.759-µm Er3+:CaF2 laser with an average output power of 75 mW, a peak power of 2.39 W, a single pulse energy of 1.81 µJ, and a pulse width of 755.3 ns was obtained at a repetition rate of 41.55 kHz.

Objectives: Stroke survivors frequently encounter physical complications. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of stroke on bone mineral density (BMD) and assess the risk of post-stroke osteoporosis or osteoporotic fractures. Design: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Setting and Participants: We systematically searched Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews to identify longitudinal studies reporting the influence of stroke on BMD, osteoporosis, and osteoporotic fractures. Pooled analyses were performed utilizing random-effects models. Results: This study included 21 studies with 1,029,742 participants. The mean difference of BMD in the paretic femoral neck between follow-up and initial measurements was −0.07 g/cm2 (95% CI, −0.09 to −0.04), and −0.03 g/cm2 (95% CI, −0.05 to −0.01) in the non-paretic femoral neck. A follow-up length exceeding six months was associated with a more pronounced decrease compared to a follow-up of under six months (MD, −0.08; 95% CI, −0.11 to −0.05 vs MD, −0.04; 95% CI, −0.06 to −0.02; P = 0.03). No significant change in lumbar spine BMD was detected post-stroke (MD, −0.00; 95% CI, −0.03 to 0.02), nor was significant change observed in the non-paretic distal radius, proximal humerus, tibia, trochanter, and total hip. Stroke was not associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis or osteoporotic fractures (HR, 1.43; 95% CI, 0.95–2.13). Conclusion: Stroke survivors undergo significant BMD loss in paralyzed limbs, most notably in the femoral neck. However, BMD in the lumbar spine does not exhibit a significant decrease post-stroke. The risk of post-stroke osteoporosis or osteoporotic fractures should be interpreted with caution and needs further investigation.

This study investigated the effects of Lactobacillus rhamnosus fermentation products added to feed on common carp (Cyprinus carpio) on growth, gut and liver health, and gut microbiota. Common carp with an average weight of 1.95±0.4 g were fed five experimental diets: normal diet (normal) and normal diet supplemented with Lactobacillus rhamnosus fermentation products (abbreviation: 0.2% GCC-3, 0.3% GCC-3, 0.4% GCC-3 and 0.5% GCC-3, respectively) for 8 weeks. The results showed that the GCC-3 fermentation product did not affect the growth phenotype of common carp. The diet supplemented with 0.3% GCC-3 significantly reduced the serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels of common carp compared to the control group. Diets with GCC-3 fermentation products significantly reduced liver triacylglycerol (TAG) levels. Diets supplemented with 0.3% GCC-3 fermentation products significantly downregulated the expression of liver liposynthesis gene (fas) and significantly upregulated the expression of liver lipolysis gene (cpt1). Diets supplemented with GCC-3 significantly reduced the serum lipopolysaccharide (LPS) levels of common carp compared to the control group. In addition, dietary supplementation with 0.3% GCC-3, 0.4% GCC-3, or 0.5% GCC-3 all increased the abundance of Cetobacterium and decreased the abundance of Acinetobacter. In summary, dietary supplementation with 0.3% GCC-3, 0.4% GCC-3, and 0.5% GCC-3 reduced liver lipid deposition, and improved gut microbiota homeostasis of common carp. The best positive effect was observed in common carp fed a 0.3% GCC-3 supplemental diet.

Giant phyllodes tumors are rare fibroepithelial tumors that are usually larger than 10 cm in diameter, have rapid tumor growth, and are easily recurrent. They are frequently accompanied by skin necrosis and infection, particularly in malignant phyllodes tumors. This case report presents a 50-year-old woman who presented to the hospital with a huge left breast mass that was ruptured and infected. The patient received anti-infective treatment and underwent mastectomy and skin grafting, which indicated a malignant phyllodes tumor. The tumor was completely excised after a local recurrence in the chest wall 6 months post-surgery. Unfortunately, one year later, the patient pass away due to multiple organ failure. Giant phyllodes tumor management presents challenges to the surgeon. This case is being presented to enhance understanding and treatment of phyllodes tumors, specifically giant malignant phyllodes tumors, with the aim of improving patients’ quality of life.

Abstract Drug‐induced liver injury (DILI) is a significant global health issue that poses high mortality and morbidity risks. One commonly observed cause of DILI is acetaminophen (APAP) overdose. GSDME is an effector protein that induces non‐canonical pyroptosis. In this study, the activation of GSDME, but not GSDMD, in the liver tissue of mice and patients with APAP‐DILI is reported. Knockout of GSDME, rather than GSDMD, in mice protected them from APAP‐DILI. Mice with hepatocyte‐specific rescue of GSDME reproduced APAP‐induced liver injury. Furthermore, alterations in the immune cell pools observed in APAP‐induced DILI, such as the replacement of TIM4+ resident Kupffer cells (KCs) by monocyte‐derived KCs, Ly6C+ monocyte infiltration, MerTk+ macrophages depletion, and neutrophil increase, reappeared in mice with hepatocyte‐specific rescue of GSDME. Mechanistically, APAP exposure led to a substantial loss of interferon‐stimulated gene 15 (ISG15), resulting in deISGylation of carbamoyl phosphate synthetase‐1 (CPS1), promoted its degradation via K48‐linked ubiquitination, causing ammonia clearance dysfunction. GSDME deletion prevented these effects. Delayed administration of dimethyl‐fumarate inhibited GSDME cleavage and alleviated ammonia accumulation, mitigating liver injury. This findings demonstrated a previously uncharacterized role of GSDME in APAP‐DILI by promoting pyroptosis and CPS1 deISGylation, suggesting that inhibiting GSDME can be a promising therapeutic option for APAP‐DILI.

Abstract Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG), the well‐characterized human‐derived probiotic strain, possesses excellent properties in the maintenance of intestinal homeostasis, immunoregulation and defense against gastrointestinal pathogens in mammals. Here, we demonstrate that the SpaC pilin of LGG causes intestinal epithelium injury by inducing cell pyroptosis and gut microbial dysbiosis in zebrafish. Dietary SpaC activates Caspase‐3−GSDMEa pathways in the intestinal epithelium, promotes intestinal pyroptosis and increases lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐producing gut microbes in zebrafish. The increased LPS subsequently activates Gaspy2−GSDMEb pyroptosis pathway. Further analysis reveals the Caspase‐3−GSDMEa pyroptosis is initiated by the species‐specific recognition of SpaC by TLR4ba, which accounts for the species‐specificity of the SpaC‐inducing intestinal pyroptosis in zebrafish. The observed pyroptosis‐driven gut injury and microbial dysbiosis by LGG in zebrafish suggest that host‐specific beneficial/harmful mechanisms are critical safety issues when applying probiotics derived from other host species and need more attention.

BackgroundBell’s palsy is an acute peripheral facial neuropathy, which is one of the most common causes of facial palsy of lower motor neurons. Facial nerve swelling is commonly observed in Bell’s palsy. Acupuncture therapy has been widely used in the treatment of Bell’s palsy. However, whether acupuncture can be effectively used in the acute stage is still controversial. There are no clinical trials conducted previously to evaluate the effect of acupuncture on facial nerve edema in Bell’s palsy patients. The study aims to evaluate the potential efficacy of different acupuncture modalities on Bell’s palsy patients in the acute phase, its effect on facial nerve edema, and to preliminarily explore its possible mechanism.Methods and analysisIn this randomized, controlled trial, 165 Bell’s palsy patients with unilateral onset within 3 days will be recruited and randomly assigned to either the electroacupuncture group (n = 33), the acupuncture group (n = 33), the sham acupuncture group (n = 33), the blank control group (n = 33), or the acupuncture control group (n = 33) in a 1:1:1:1:1 ratio. The participants will receive 4 weeks of treatment and 8 weeks of follow-up. The five groups of participants will receive the following treatments: A: Electroacupuncture + Medication (prednisone acetate tablets, mecobalamin tablets, and vitamin B1 tablets); B: Acupuncture + Medication; C: Sham Acupuncture + Medication; D: Medication only; and E: Acupuncture only. The primary outcome will be the effectiveness rate of different acupuncture modalities in improving facial nerve function after the intervention period. The secondary outcomes will be the recovery speed, the diameter of the facial nerve, the echo intensity and thickness of facial muscles, blood flow parameters of the facial artery, the serum inflammatory level, safety evaluation, and adverse events. Preliminary exploration of its mechanism of action occurs through inflammation and immune response. The difference between groups will be assessed using repeated measure analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and trend chi-square.DiscussionThe trial will evaluate the efficacy and facial nerve edema of acupuncture for Bell’s palsy patients in the acute phase and preliminarily explore its possible mechanism. The results thus may provide evidence for clinical application.Clinical trial registrationhttps://www.chictr.org.cn/bin/project/edit?pid=133211, identifier ChiCTR2100050815.

Existing statistical data indicates that an increasing number of people now require rehabilitation to restore compromised physical mobility. During the rehabilitation process, physical therapists evaluate and guide the movements of patients, aiding them in a more effective recovery of rehabilitation and preventing secondary injuries. However, the immutability of mobility and the expensive price of rehabilitation training hinder some patients from timely access to rehabilitation. Utilizing virtual reality for rehabilitation training might offer a potential alleviation to these issues. However, prevalent pose reconstruction algorithms in rehabilitation primarily rely on images, limiting their applicability to virtual reality. Furthermore, existing pose evaluation and correction methods in the field of rehabilitation focus on providing clinical metrics for doctors, and failed to offer patients efficient movement guidance. In this paper, a virtual reality-based rehabilitation training method is proposed. The sparse motion signals from virtual reality devices, specifically head-mounted displays hand controllers, is used to reconstruct full body poses. Subsequently, the reconstructed poses and the standard poses are fed into a natural language processing model, which contrasts the difference between the two poses and provides effective pose correction guidance in the form of natural language. Quantitative and qualitative results indicate that the proposed method can accurately reconstruct full body poses from sparse motion signals in real-time. By referencing standard poses, the model generates professional motion correction guidance text. This approach facilitates virtual reality-based rehabilitation training, reducing the cost of rehabilitation training and enhancing the efficiency of self-rehabilitation training.

Forests emit a large amount of biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) in response to biotic and abiotic stress. Despite frequent occurrence of large forest fires in recent years, the impact of smoke stress derived from these forest fires on the emission of BVOCs is largely unexplored. Thus, the aims of the study were to quantify the amount and composition of BVOCs released by two sub-tropical tree species, Cunninghamia lanceolata and Schima superba, in response to exposure to smoke. Physiological responses and their relationship with BVOCs were also investigated. The results showed that smoke treatments significantly (p < 0.001) promoted short-term release of BVOCs by C. lanceolata leaves than S. superba; and alkanes, olefins and benzene homologs were identified as major classes of BVOCs. Both C. lanceolata and S. superba seedlings showed significant (p < 0.005) physiological responses after being smoke-stressed where photosynthetic rate remained unaffected, chlorophyll content greatly reduced and Activities of anti-oxidant enzymes and the malondialdehyde content generally increased with the increase in smoke concentration. Activities of anti-oxidant enzymes showed mainly positive correlations with the major BVOCs. In conclusion, the release of BVOCs following smoke stress is species-specific and there exists a link between activities of antioxidant enzymes and BVOCs released. The findings provide insight about management of forest fires in order to control excessive emission of smoke that would trigger increased release of BVOCs.

Heart failure (HF) and cancer are the two leading causes of death worldwide and affect one another in a bidirectional way. We aimed to identify hub therapeutic genes as potential biomarkers for the identification and treatment of HF and cancer. Gene expression data of heart samples from patients with ischemic HF (IHF) and healthy controls were retrieved from the GSE42955 and GSE57338 databases. Difference analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) were used to identify key modules associated with IHF. The overlapping genes were subjected to gene and protein enrichment analyses to construct a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, which was screened for hub genes among the overlapping genes. A total of eight hub genes were subjected to correlation, immune cell infiltration, and ROC analyses. Then we analyzed the roles of two significant genes in 33 tumor types to explore their potential as common targets in HF and cancer. A total of 85 genes were identified by WGCNA and differentially expressed gene (DEG) analyses. BRCA1, MED17, CENPA, RXRA, RXRB, SMARCA2, CDCA2, and PMS2 were identified as the hub genes with IHF. Finally, CENPA and BRCA1 were identified as potential common targets for IHF and cancer. These findings provide new perspectives for expanding our understanding of the etiology and underlying mechanisms of HF and cancer.

In this research, we unveil the medical potential of pearls by identifying a novel bioactive peptide within them for the first time. The peptide, termed KKCHFWPFPW, emerges as a pioneering angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, originating from the pearl matrix of Pinctada fucata. Employing quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry, this peptide was meticulously selected and pinpointed. With a molecular weight of 1417.5 Da and a theoretical isoelectric point of 9.31, its inhibitory potency was demonstrated through a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 4.17 μM, established via high-performance liquid chromatography. The inhibition of ACE by this peptide was found to be competitive, as revealed by Lineweaver–Burk plot analysis, where an increase in peptide concentration correlated with an enhanced rate of ACE inhibition. To delve into the interaction between KKCHFWPFPW and ACE, molecular docking simulations were conducted using the Maestro 2022-1 Glide software, shedding light on the inhibitory mechanism. This investigation suggests that peptides derived from the P. martensii pearl matrix hold promise as a novel source for antihypertensive agents.

Global climate change has led to ocean warming, acidification, hypoxia, and alterations in the biogeochemical circulation, thereby influencing the distribution, abundance, and population patterns of marine organisms. Particularly, oysters, which tend to attach to rocks in intertidal zones, may be more vulnerable to climate change. The Kumamoto oyster, Crassostrea sikamea (Amemiya, 1928), is renowned for its nutritional content, breeding benefits, and ecosystem restoration abilities. Previous research has demonstrated that the geographical range of C. sikamea in China has gradually shifted. In this study, the Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) model was employed to predict the suitability for C. sikamea under different climate scenarios. We utilized first-hand data collected by our research team over the past 14 years, which consisted of 3030 C. sikamea samples from seven provinces in China. The contribution rate of the environmental variables and the jackknife test revealed that salinity (13–21PSS) and temperature (24.6–25.5 °C) are the primary factors influencing the distribution of C. sikamea. The future distribution shows a south-to-north migration pattern triggered by increased sea temperature, resulting in increased suitability at higher latitudes. The migratory effect is more dramatic under the high-emission scenario (Representative Concentration Pathways 8.5 (RCP8.5)) compared to medium-(RCP4.5/RCP6.0) and low-emission scenarios (RCP2.6) and becomes increasingly evident over time. Model predictions indicated that C. sikamea could maintain its suitability under all climate scenarios until the 2050s. However, by the 2100s, the suitability is expected to shift northward beyond the 33–34°N boundary under RCP2.6, RCP6.0, and RCP8.5, extending to the northern coast of Jiangsu. The suitability of C. sikamea within its habitat may experience a significant decline by the 2050s, followed by a gradual recovery over the next 50 years. The potential northward migration of C. sikamea presents new prospects for oyster aquaculture and artificial reefs establishment in China. However, this migration will inevitably lead to significant impacts on the invaded ecosystems and overall biodiversity.

The accurate large-scale positioning system is a novel full-space laser positioning system that has the advantages of automatic and multi-node parallel measurement and sub-millimeter positioning accuracy, and it has become an important component in the digital manufacturing of large equipment. Goniometric accuracy is particularly important for the evaluation of system function and accuracy improvement. An improved goniometric accuracy calibration method is proposed to assess the goniometric accuracy by using multiple measurement points to fit the mapping relationship between the goniometric measurement of the system and the goniometric measurement of the multi-tooth indexing table. The feasibility of the accuracy assessment method is verified by establishing a geometric model and performing modeling and simulation analysis. The method is verified using an all-space laser positioning system, and the dynamic performance of the base station is optimized to improve the overall goniometric accuracy. The maximum value of the goniometric error is 0.008″ and the goniometric accuracy is 0.026″ after fitting the curve by the mapping relation, demonstrating high stability, and the fluctuation of the goniometric error after optimization is improved from the original ±15″ to ±7.5″, verifying the effectiveness of the goniometric compensation method. This method solves the problem of coaxiality calibration in goniometric evaluation and provides the basis for the traceability of the goniometric accuracy.

Abstract Background Ovarian granulosa cell tumors (OGCTs) feature low incidence, indolent growth and late recurrence. Treatment for recurrent OGCTs is challenging. Methods The present study was designed to explore the prognostic factors and establish a nomogram to predict cancer‐specific survival (CSS) for OGCTs patients. Enrolled in the study were 1459 eligible patients in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database, who were randomized to the training (n = 1021) or testing set (n = 438) at a ratio of 7:3. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were employed to screen the prognostic factors. The predictors were determined by using the Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis. The model was constructed via the Cox proportional hazards risk regression analysis. The performance and clinical value of the nomograms was assessed with C‐index, calibration plots, and decision curve analysis. Results Age, pTNM stage, tumor size, surgery of the primary tumor, surgery of regional lymph nodes (LNs), residual disease after surgery, and chemotherapy were considered as significant predictive factors for CSS in OGCTs patients. After screening, the prognostic factors except surgery of regional LNs and chemotherapy were employed to build the nomogram. With desirable discrimination and calibration, the nomogram was more powerful in predicting CSS than the American Joint Committee on Cancer staging system in clinical use. Conclusion This novel prognostic nomogram, which comprises a stationary nomogram and a web‐based calculator, offers convenience for clinicians in personalized decision‐making including optimal treatment plans and prognosis assessments for OGCTs patients.

The Ficus erecta complex, characterized by its morphological diversity and frequent interspecific overlap, shares pollinating fig wasps among several species. This attribute, coupled with its intricate phylogenetic relationships, establishes it as an exemplary model for studying speciation and evolutionary patterns. Extensive researches involving RADseq (Restriction-site associated DNA sequencing), complete chloroplast genome data, and flow cytometry methods were conducted, focusing on phylogenomic analysis, genetic structure, and ploidy detection within the complex. Significantly, the findings exposed a pronounced nuclear-cytoplasmic conflict. This evidence, together with genetic structure analysis, confirmed that hybridization within the complex is a frequent occurrence. The ploidy detection revealed widespread polyploidy, with certain species exhibiting multiple ploidy levels, including 2×, 3×, and 4×. Of particular note, only five species (F. abelii, F. erecta, F. formosana, F. tannoensis and F. vaccinioides) in the complex were proved to be monophyletic. Species such as F. gasparriniana, F. pandurata, and F. stenophylla were found to encompass multiple phylogenetically distinct lineages. This discovery, along with morphological comparisons, suggests a significant underestimation of species diversity within the complex. This study also identified F. tannoensis as an allopolyploid species originating from F. vaccinioide and F. erecta. Considering the integration of morphological, molecular systematics, and cytological evidences, it is proposed that the scope of the F. erecta complex should be expanded to the entire subsect. Frutescentiae. This would redefine the complex as a continuously evolving group comprising at least 33 taxa, characterized by blurred species boundaries, frequent hybridization and polyploidization, and ambiguous genetic differentiation.

BackgroundCoronavirus disease (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, has emerged as a infectious disease, coexisting with widespread seasonal and sporadic influenza epidemics globally. Individuals living with HIV, characterized by compromised immune systems, face an elevated risk of severe outcomes and increased mortality when affected by COVID-19. Despite this connection, the molecular intricacies linking COVID-19, influenza, and HIV remain unclear. Our research endeavors to elucidate the shared pathways and molecular markers in individuals with HIV concurrently infected with COVID-19 and influenza. Furthermore, we aim to identify potential medications that may prove beneficial in managing these three interconnected illnesses.MethodsSequencing data for COVID-19 (GSE157103), influenza (GSE185576), and HIV (GSE195434) were retrieved from the GEO database. Commonly expressed differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified across the three datasets, followed by immune infiltration analysis and diagnostic ROC analysis on the DEGs. Functional enrichment analysis was performed using GO/KEGG and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). Hub genes were screened through a Protein-Protein Interaction networks (PPIs) analysis among DEGs. Analysis of miRNAs, transcription factors, drug chemicals, diseases, and RNA-binding proteins was conducted based on the identified hub genes. Finally, quantitative PCR (qPCR) expression verification was undertaken for selected hub genes.ResultsThe analysis of the three datasets revealed a total of 22 shared DEGs, with the majority exhibiting an area under the curve value exceeding 0.7. Functional enrichment analysis with GO/KEGG and GSEA primarily highlighted signaling pathways associated with ribosomes and tumors. The ten identified hub genes included IFI44L, IFI44, RSAD2, ISG15, IFIT3, OAS1, EIF2AK2, IFI27, OASL, and EPSTI1. Additionally, five crucial miRNAs (hsa-miR-8060, hsa-miR-6890-5p, hsa-miR-5003-3p, hsa-miR-6893-3p, and hsa-miR-6069), five essential transcription factors (CREB1, CEBPB, EGR1, EP300, and IRF1), and the top ten significant drug chemicals (estradiol, progesterone, tretinoin, calcitriol, fluorouracil, methotrexate, lipopolysaccharide, valproic acid, silicon dioxide, cyclosporine) were identified.ConclusionThis research provides valuable insights into shared molecular targets, signaling pathways, drug chemicals, and potential biomarkers for individuals facing the complex intersection of COVID-19, influenza, and HIV. These findings hold promise for enhancing the precision of diagnosis and treatment for individuals with HIV co-infected with COVID-19 and influenza.

China consumes 35% of the world’s fertilizer every year; however, most of the nitrogen fertilizers, which are essential for rice cultivation, are not used effectively. In this study, factors affecting the nitrogen leaching loss rate were studied in typical soil and rice varieties in South China. The effects of various irrigation measures on rice growth and nitrogen leaching loss were investigated by conducting experiments with eight groups. These groups included traditional irrigation (TI) and shallow wet irrigation (SWI). The TI is a common irrigation method for farmers in South China, maintaining a water layer of 5-8 cm depth. For SWI, after establishing a shallow water layer usually maintaining at 1-2 cm, paddy is irrigated when the field water level falls to a certain depth, then this process is then repeat as necessary. The nitrogen distribution characteristics were determined using 15N isotope tracing. In addition, the effects of nitrification, denitrification, and microbial composition on soil nitrogen transformation at different depths were studied by microbial functional gene quantification and high-throughput sequencing. The results revealed that in the SWI groups, the total nitrogen leaching loss rate reduced by 0.3-0.8% and the nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) increased by 2.18-4.43% compared with those in the TI groups. After the 15N-labeled nitrogen fertilizer was applied, the main pathways of nitrogen were found to be related to plant absorption and nitrogen residues. Furthermore, paddy soil ammonia-oxidizing archaea were more effective than ammonia-oxidizing bacteria for soil ammonia oxidation by SWI groups. The SWI measures increased the relative abundance of Firmicutes in paddy soil, enhancing the ability of rice to fix nitrogen to produce ammonium nitrogen, thus reducing the dependence of rice on chemical fertilizers. Moreover, SWI enhanced the relative abundance of nirS and nosZ genes within surface soil bacteria, thereby promoting denitrification in the surface soil of paddy fields. SWI also promoted ammonia oxidation and denitrification by increasing the abundance and activity of Proteobacteria, Nitrospirae, and Bacteroidetes. Collectively, SWI effectively reduced the nitrogen leaching loss rate and increase NUE.

BackgroundA novel non-contact system for remote parameter testing and reprogramming offers an alternative method for assessing device parameters during cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) implantation without the need for physical contact with the manufacturer's clinical service technician. The safety and feasibility of using this system in CIEDs implantation procedures remains to be determined.ObjectiveEvaluate the safety and feasibility of remote parameter testing in CIEDs implantation procedures.MethodsA single center, randomized, open-label, non-inferiority trial (ChiCTR2200057587) was conducted to compare the two approaches for interrogating CIEDs during implantation procedures: routine interrogation performed by on-site technicians or remote interrogation performed by technicians using the 5G-Cloud Technology Platform. Patients aged ≥18 years and elected to receive CIEDs were eligible for inclusion. The primary endpoint was the completion rate of the parameter test. Safety and efficiency were evaluated in all randomly assigned participants.ResultsA total of 480 patients were finally enrolled and were randomly assigned to routine group (n = 240) or remote group (n = 240). The primary endpoint was achieved by 100% in both groups (P = 0.0060 for noninferiority). The parameters of sensing, threshold, and impedance regarding the right atrium, right ventricle, and left ventricle had no statistical significance between the two groups (P > 0.05). Procedure time, parameter testing time, and both duration and dose of x-ray irradiation were not significantly different between the two groups (P > 0.05). Shut-open door frequency was significantly higher in the routine group than the remote group [6.00 (4.00, 8.00) vs. 0, P

BackgroundDeep vein thrombosis (DVT) is associated with aberrant gene expression that is a common peripheral vascular disease. Here, we aimed to elucidate that the epigenetic modification of forkhead box protein 3 (FOXP3) at the post-transcriptional level, which might be the key trigger leading to the down-regulation of FOXP3 expression in DVT.MethodsIn order to explore the relationship between microRNAs (miRNAs) and FOXP3, mRNA and microRNA microarray analysis were performed. Dual luciferase reporter assay was used to verify the upstream miRNAs of FOXP3. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, flow cytometry and Western blot were used to detect the relative expression of miR-6132 and FOXP3. Additionally, DVT models were established to investigate the role of miR-6132 by Murine Doppler Ultrasound and Hematoxylin-Eosin staining.ResultsMicroarray and flow cytometry results showed that the FOXP3 expression was decreased while miR-6132 level was increased substantially in DVT, and there was significant negative correlation between miR-6132 and FOXP3. Moreover, we discovered that overexpressed miR-6132 reduced FOXP3 expression and aggravated DVT formation, while miR-6132 knockdown increased FOXP3 expression and alleviated DVT formation. Dual luciferase reporter assay validated the direct binding of miR-6132 to FOXP3.ConclusionCollectively, our data elucidate a new avenue through which up-regulated miR-6132 contributes to the formation and progression of DVT by inhibiting FOXP3 expression.

Most of vaccinees and COVID-19 convalescents can build effective anti-SARS-CoV-2 humoral immunity, which helps preventing infection and alleviating symptoms. However, breakthrough viral infections caused by emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants, especially Omicron subvariants, still pose a serious threat to global health. By monitoring the viral infections and the sera neutralization ability of a long-tracked cohort, we found out that the immune evasion of emerging Omicron subvariants and the decreasing neutralization led to the mini-wave of SARS-CoV-2 breakthrough infections. Meanwhile, no significant difference had been found in the infectivity of tested SARS-CoV-2 variants, even though the affinity between human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) and receptor-binding domain (RBDs) of tested variants showed an increasing trend. Notably, the immune imprinting of inactivated COVID-19 vaccine can be relieved by infections of BA.5.2 and XBB.1.5 variants sequentially. Our data reveal the rising reinfection risk of immune evasion variants like Omicron JN.1 in China, suggesting the importance of booster with updated vaccines.

Background: Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is widely recognized as a significant contributor to heart failure. Nevertheless, the absence of pharmaceutical interventions capable of reversing disease progression and improving prognosis underscores the imperative for additional research in this area. Methods: First, we identified and evaluated three gene sets, namely “SC-DCM”, “EP-DCM” and “Drug”, using big data and multiple bioinformatics analysis methods. Accordingly, drug-treatable (“Hub”) genes in DCM were identified. Following this, four microarray expression profile datasets were employed to authenticate the expression levels and discriminatory efficacy of “Hub” genes. Additionally, mendelian randomization analysis was conducted to ascertain the causal association between the “Hub genes” and heart failure. Finally, the “DGIdb” was applied to identify “Hub” genes-targeted drugs. The “ssGSEA” algorithm assessed the level of immune cell infiltration in DCM. Results: Enrichment analysis showed that the “SC-DCM” and “EP-DCM” gene sets were closely associated with DCM. PIK3R1 and ERBB2 were identified as drug-treatable genes in DCM. Additional analysis using MR supported a causal relationship between ERBB2 and heart failure, but not PIK3R1. Moreover, PIK3R1 was positively correlated with immune activation, while ERBB2 was negatively correlated. We found that everolimus was a pharmacological inhibitor for both PIK3R1 and ERBB2. However, no pharmacological agonist was found for ERBB2. Conclusion: PIK3R1 and ERBB2 are drug-treatable genes in DCM. ERBB2 has a causal effect on heart failure, and its normal expression may play a role in preventing the progression of DCM to heart failure. In addition, there is a cross-expression of PIK3R1 and ERBB2 genes in both DCM and tumors. The adaptive immune system and PIK3R1 may be involved in DCM disease progression, while ERBB2 exerts a protective effect against DCM.

In this work, the trade-off between transformation toughening of ZrO2/TiO2 ceramic coatings and low temperature (293.15 K∼203.15 K) was achieved by adjusting the grain size of t-ZrO2 (dt-ZrO2). A negative correlation between dt-ZrO2 and phase transition temperature (Ms) was also established based on strain energy and chemical free energy in ZrO2/TiO2 ceramic coatings. Interestingly, t-ZrO2 grains lost toughening effects when the dt-ZrO2 reaches the critical size (20 nm) even under cooling and stress. This is attributed to the number of dislocations per unit volume increases 1.5 times with the dt-ZrO2 decreases from 40 nm to 20 nm, which aggravates the lattice distortion and dislocation tangle and leads to the fracture toughness increases by 32.5% at 203.15 K. Therefore, the interfacial cohesion of the semi-coherent interface between (011) t-ZrO2 and (110) TiO2 was enhanced and t-ZrO2 was completely stabilized when dt-ZrO2 reaches critical size. This work elucidates the effect of size effect on Ms and provides a reference for transformation toughening of ceramic coatings at cryogenic temperature.

Summary: Background: Concurrent chemoradiotherapy is the standard nonoperative treatment for locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. However, local recurrence is still the main failure pattern, accounting for more than half of all treatment failures, indicating that the sensitivity of radiotherapy still needs to be improved. This trial aimed at demonstrating whether PD-1 inhibitors followed by chemoradiotherapy could promote esophageal tumor vascular normalization, alleviate hypoxia, and thus enhance radiosensitivity and improve local control. Methods: We did a multicenter, single-arm, phase 2 trial in China. Patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer were enrolled in this study. In induction phase, patients received two cycles of sintilimab, paclitaxel and carboplatin once per 21 days. In concurrent phase, patients were treated with five cycles of carboplatin and paclitaxel once per week concurrent with radiotherapy of 50.4Gy delivered in 28 fractions. The primary endpoint was 2-year local control rate. Hypoxia and vessel normalization was assessed before and after induction phase using immunofluorescence and perfusion CT. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03985046). Findings: Seventy-five patients with esophageal cancer were enrolled in this study between October 2019 and April 2021. The median follow-up of surviving patients was 33.6 months (IQR 29.3–35.7). The 2-year local control rate was 81.7% (95% confidence interval, 72.7%–90.7%), which was much higher than that in concurrent chemoradiation only (71.3%) in previous studies. Vascular normalization and hypoxia alleviation were observed in both biopsy specimens and perfusion CT. Interpretation: The addition of induction immunotherapy to standard concurrent chemoradiotherapy could improve radiosensitivity for locally advanced esophageal cancer as non-surgical treatment. New treatment combination led to higher local control rate through promoting vascular normalization and alleviating hypoxia. Our findings suggest that induction immunotherapy followed by concurrent chemoradiotherapy could be a potential option in future treatment. Funding: National Natural Science Foundation of China and Shanghai Rising-Star Program.

The extensive expansion of coastal land-based aquaculture ponds (CLAP) has resulted in substantial wetland loss. To effectively monitor the dynamics of CLAP on a large scale, critical spatial information derived from continuous datasets is essential. Here, we generate the inaugural map depicting the changes in aquaculture pond coverage across the coastal regions both of China and Southeast Asia from 1990 to 2020 by utilizing the long time-series Landsat archive with an object-oriented hierarchical classification method. We extracted coastal water bodies using the Otsu algorithm and established a water inundation frequency index to eliminate interference from temporary water facilities. This process allowed us to identify potential distribution areas of aquaculture ponds. To precisely map the spatial distribution of CLAP within these identified areas, we employed an object-oriented K-nearest neighbor approach with spectral, geometric, and water index features as classification features. The cumulative coverage of CLAP in China and Southeast Asia reached 23,121 km2 by 2020, marking a net increase of 12,700 km2 since 1990. Notably, China, Indonesia, and Vietnam emerged as the primary contributors to these changes within our study area. Regions exhibiting dense aquaculture activities are predominantly concentrated in the northern region above 10 degrees latitude and along the eastern coastlines of various countries. This aquaculture pond map reserves fine spatial detail by effectively distinguishing drainage channels, rice seedling fields, and embankments surrounding aquaculture ponds. It serves as a valuable resource for guiding coastal resource management and environmental protection initiatives.

The novel Abemaciclib derivative WXJ-8 may be a promising anti-tumour drug; however, its mechanism of action and clinical value need to be further verified in research. Cell cycle regulating systems are critical in parthenogenesis and progression. Because of its involvement in regulating cell cycle checkpoints, the CDK4/6-CyclinD1-Rb-E2F1 signalling pathway has been proposed as a possible therapeutic target for breast cancer. As a result, WXJ-8, a new and highly specific CDK4/6 inhibitor, was developed and synthesized in this investigation. The activity of WXJ-8 against breast cancer cells in vitro was detected by MTT method. The main subjects were MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells. Plate cloning, wound healing, invasion and adhesion experiments revealed that WXJ-8 had strong anti-proliferation, migration, invasion, and adhesion effects on breast cancer cells. Protein blotting revealed significant down regulation of CDK4, CDK6, p-Rb, E2F1 and other cell cycle factors in the CDK4/6-CyclinD1-Rb-E2F1 pathway, as well as activation of Bcl-2, Caspase-3, and Cleaved Caspase-3 apoptotic factor expression, resulting in MDA-MB-231 cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Finally, our research implies that WXJ-8 might be a potential anti-triple-negative breast cancer medication candidate.

Abstract Aims Insulin resistance (IR) is a pivotal factor in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Nevertheless, the impact of IR on cognitive dysfunction in T2DM patients with NAFLD remains inadequately understood. We aim to investigate the effect of IR on mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in T2DM individuals with NAFLD. Materials and methods 143 T2DM individuals were categorized into Non-MCI and MCI groups, as well as Non-NAFLD and NAFLD groups. Clinical parameters and cognitive preference test outcomes were compared. Correlation and regression analyses were executed to explore the interconnections between IR and cognitive details across all T2DM patients, as well as within the subgroup of individuals with NAFLD. Results In comparison to the Non-MCI group, the MCI group displayed elevated HOMA-IR levels. Similarly, the NAFLD group exhibited higher HOMA-IR levels compared to the Non-NAFLD group. Additionally, a higher prevalence of MCI was observed in the NAFLD group as opposed to the Non-NAFLD group. Notably, HOMA-IR levels were correlated with Verbal Fluency Test (VFT) and Trail Making Test-B (TMTB) scores, both related to executive functions. Elevated HOMA-IR emerged as a risk factor for MCI in the all patients. Intriguingly, increased HOMA-IR not only correlated with TMTB scores but also demonstrated an influence on TMTA scores, reflecting information processing speed function in patients with NAFLD. Conclusion IR emerges as a contributory factor to cognitive dysfunction in T2DM patients. Furthermore, it appears to underlie impaired executive function and information processing speed function in T2DM individuals with NAFLD.

Abstract Uniaxial compression experiments of limestone–coal specimens at different inclination angles (0, 15, 30, 45, and 60°) were conducted using acoustic emission and three-dimensional, extension test digital image correlation, and full-field strain measurement systems to examine how dip angles affect deformation failure. The findings indicate that: (1) specimen groups demonstrate plastic yield characteristics in the pre-peak stage. However, slight variations exist due to inclination angles. (2) The localization zone for deformation evolution closely correlates to primary crack initiation and propagation within coal specimens and to slipping at the rock’s and coal’s interface. Failure in the coal specimen triggers rebound deformation in limestone when the rock coal inclination angle is set at 15°. Both the rebound deformation amount and its rate exhibit upward trends as a function of the inclination angle. (3) The percentage of pre-peak elastic property density in the combined specimen is augmented from 98.56 to 88.08% as the inclination angle augments and reduces to 75.80%. External energy’s conversion into missile performance shows an initial increase followed by a decrease. (4) The energy rate of the acoustic emission (AE) signal exhibits distinct temporal characteristics in the combined specimen that can be associated with quiet, active, and sudden increases.

Abstract The low mechanical strength, water deficiency, and oxidative protection of organic membranes impede their use as food-grade packaging materials. Cinnamaldehyde (CIN) tends to lose its activity owing to its instability. In this study, CIN was added to flaxseed gum (FG)/chitosan (CS) films prepared in a “sandwich” structure. The influence of CIN dosage on the properties of the composite films was studied, and the film formation mechanism of the membrane was explored. The elongation at break, water vapor permeability, oxygen permeability, and light transmittance of the composite film with 1.5% CIN were lower than those of the FG/CS/FG film. Supplementation of the composite membrane with CIN generated new hydrogen bonds, electrostatic interactions, and C-O-C bonds, which converted the structure of the composite film into a sheet and increased its crystallinity without markedly affecting its thermal stability. Therefore, CIN is an extremely useful additive for improving the applicability of flaxseed gum/CS membranes as food-grade packaging films.

The AZ31 magnesium alloy with different grain sizes was prepared by adjusting the heat treatment process, and then the tension and compression tests were carried out to explore the effect of grain sizes and loading conditions on the microstructures and properties of the magnesium alloy. The Hall-Petch slope presented dramatic anisotropy under tension (181 Mpa· μm1∕2) and compression (115 Mpa· μm1∕2), the geometric compatibility factor (m′) and the difference in activation stress between the initiated deformation modes of two neighboring grains (σd) were calculated to analyze the anisotropy quantitatively. In compression, it was found that the elongation increased with further grain coarsening, which was attributed to the fact that more twins were initiated in the coarse grains and the preferred initiation of twinning to inhibit competitive crack initiation.