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Achieving coupling between plasma oscillators can significantly modulate their intrinsic optical characteristics. In this paper, strong coupling generated by the surface plasma of MXene and Au nanobipyramids (NBPs) for broadband ultrafast nonlinear optical modulation is reported. The femtosecond transient absorption spectra reveal that the ultrafast hot electron transfer occurred in the Au/MXene nanohybrids at <200 fs. Au/Ta4C3Tx nanohybrids outperform the outstanding broadband saturable absorption (SA), with a saturation intensity 106 times less than that of the initial MXene. Laser excitation at 1100 nm results in reverse saturable absorption for Ta4C3Tx nanosheets and a strong SA for Au/Ta4C3Tx nanohybrids, which extends the range of SA. Theoretical calculations indicate that excellent nonlinearity is synergistically achieved via hot electron transfer and plasmon coupling. Femtosecond transient absorption spectra reveal that Au NBPs offer the additional occupied state for carriers through the transfer process and extend the carrier lifetime considerably. This study provides theoretical guidance for the exploration of remarkable novel nonlinear‐active 2D layer‐based materials and candidates for the practical applications of saturable absorbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Killer cell lectin-like receptor G1 (KLRG1) is an immune checkpoint receptor expressed predominantly in NK and T-cell subsets that downregulates the activation and proliferation of immune cells and participates in cell-mediated immune responses. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated the importance of KLRG1 as a noteworthy disease marker and therapeutic target that can influence disease onset, progression, and prognosis. Blocking KLRG1 has been shown to effectively mitigate the effects of downregulation in various mouse tumor models, including solid tumors and hematologic malignancies. However, KLRG1 inhibitors have not yet been approved for human use, and the understanding of KLRG1 expression and its mechanism of action in various diseases remains incomplete. In this review, we explore alterations in the distribution, structure, and signaling pathways of KLRG1 in immune cells and summarize its expression patterns and roles in the development and progression of autoimmune diseases, infectious diseases, and cancers. Additionally, we discuss the potential applications of KLRG1 as a tool for tumor immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Landsat series constitutes an unparalleled repository of multi-decadal Earth observations, serving as a cornerstone in global environmental monitoring. However, the inconsistent coverage of Landsat data due to its long revisit intervals and frequent cloud cover poses significant challenges to land monitoring over large geographical extents. In this study, we developed a full-chain processing framework for the multi-sensor data fusion of Landsat-5, 7, 8, 9 and MODIS Terra surface reflectance products. Based on this framework, a global, 30-m resolution, and daily Seamless Data Cube (SDC) of land surface reflectance was generated, spanning from 2000 to 2022. A thorough evaluation of the SDC was undertaken using a leave-one-out approach and a cross-comparison with NASA's Harmonized Landsat and Sentinel-2 (HLS) products. The leave-one-out validation at 425 global test sites assessed the agreement between the SDC with actual Landsat surface reflectance values (not used as input), revealing an overall Mean Absolute Error (MAE) of 0.014 (the valid range of surface reflectance values is 0–1). The cross-comparison with the HLS products at 22 Military Grid Reference System (MGRS) tiles revealed an overall Mean Absolute Deviation (MAD) of 0.017 with L30 (Landsat-8-based 30-m HLS product) and a MAD of 0.021 with S30 (Sentinel-2-based 30-m HLS product). Moreover, experimental results underscore the advantages of employing the SDC for global land cover classification, achieving a sizable improvement in overall accuracy (2.4 %~11.3 %) over that obtained using Landsat composite and interpolated datasets. A web-based interface has been developed for researchers to freely access the SDC dataset, which is available at https://doi.org/10.12436/SDC30.26.20240506 (Chen et al., 2024). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), an entrapment neuropathy caused by pressure of the median nerve, is a progressive condition that can lead to a decreased quality of life. Studies suggest an association between CTS and arthritis; however, previous studies examining osteoarthritis (OA) and CTS are limited in number, scope and study design. This study estimated the incidence and risk of CTS among patients with OA, both overall and by specific joints, in a large population-based cohort in the United States. Methods: Patients from the Optum claims database aged ≥ 45 years and diagnosed with OA between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2022, were eligible for the OA cohort. The non-OA cohort included those without a diagnosis of OA at the index date and no history of OA for 12 months pre-index. Baseline characteristics were balanced using propensity score matching. The risk of CTS in the OA and non-OA cohort were evaluated using incidence rates and adjusted hazard ratios that were estimated using Cox regression. Results: After applying the inclusion/exclusion criteria, 3,610,240 of the 6,023,384 adults with a diagnosis of OA remained in the OA cohort. After propensity-score matching, each cohort included 1,033,439 individuals. The incidence rates for CTS per 1000 person-years were 7.35 (95% confidence interval [CI] 7.21–7.49) in the OA cohort and 1.44 (95% CI 1.38–1.50) in the non-OA cohort. The risk of developing CTS in patients with OA was ~ 4 times that of patients without (hazard ratio = 3.80; 95% CI 3.54–4.07). This increased risk was found across all OA joint types, with OA of the hand/wrist having the highest risk for CTS. Additionally, multiple OA joints presented a higher risk compared with a single affected joint. Conclusions: OA increases the risk of CTS, but this is not limited to patients with hand/wrist OA, suggesting a systemic impact of OA on CTS. While the risk appears highest for patients with hand/wrist OA, patients with more distant affected joints like knee or hip also have an increased risk of CTS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bearing capacity tests were carried out on axially and eccentrically loaded coral concrete short columns reinforced with carbon-fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) bars. Parameters such as the ultimate bearing capacities and the stress in the CFRP bars and surface concrete were measured and analysed. All the columns failed due to the crushing of concrete in the compression zone. An increase in eccentricity not only decreased the ultimate bearing capacity, but also resulted in the shear fracture of CFRP longitudinal bars in the compression zone. In general, the stress of the longitudinal CFRP reinforcements in all specimens was quite low. The maximum stress of the CFRP bars in the columns was 105.78 MPa, just 23.5% of the ultimate compressive strength of the CFRP reinforcement. The superior bond between the CFRP bars and coral concrete conformed to the deformation coordination. A calculation method for the bearing capacity of CFRP-reinforced coral concrete short columns was developed and the calculated results were found to agree well with the test results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, converter steelmaking is the main method for steelmaking, the performance of bottom blowing and bath stirring would obviously affect the efficient and stable smelting of high‐quality clean steel. At present, the uniform bottom gas distribution mode is mostly applied in converter steelmaking, which would probably lead to unstable stirring performance and inadequate mixing at the later stage of furnace campaign. Therefore, a nonuniform bottom gas distribution mode is proposed herein, which intends to improve the mixing efficiency. The physical and numerical simulations are carried out to investigate the influence of gas flowrate, nozzle configurations, and bottom gas distribution mode on bath stirring and mixing. In the results, it is shown that the large and asymmetric circulation flow is formed due to the nonuniform gas distribution for each nozzle, which enhances stirring in the horizontal direction and ultimately improves mixing efficiency. Compared with the uniform gas distribution mode, when gas distribution ratio of nonuniform bottom blowing is 3:1, the mixing time is reduced by 29%, the average velocity of liquid steel is increased from 0.0342 to 0.0404 m s−1, the ratio of the dead zone is decreased by 26.23%, and the proportion of active flow region is added by 10.49%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the advancement of scientific research, the introduction of external physical methods not only adds extra freedom to the design of electro‐catalytical processes for green technologies but also effectively improves the reactivity of materials. Physical methods can adjust the intrinsic activity of materials and modulate the local environment at the solid‐liquid interface. In particular, this approach holds great promise in the field of electrocatalysis. Among them, the ultrasonic waves have shown reasonable control over the preparation of materials and the electrocatalytic process. However, the research on coupling ultrasonic waves and electrocatalysis is still early. The understanding of their mechanisms needs to be more comprehensive and deep enough. Firstly, this article extensively discusses the adhibition of the ultrasonic‐assisted preparation of metal‐based catalysts and their catalytic performance as electrocatalysts. The obtained metal‐based catalysts exhibit improved electrocatalytic performances due to their high surface area and more exposed active sites. Additionally, this article also points out some urgent unresolved issues in the synthesis of materials using ultrasonic waves and the regulation of electrocatalytic performance. Lastly, the challenges and opportunities in this field are discussed, providing new insights for improving the catalytic performance of transition metal‐based electrocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new myxomycete species, Arcyria similaris, was reported herein. The specimens were found and collected in the field on dead bark from Jingangtai National Geopark in Henan Province of China. This species has distinct and unique morphological characteristics, including dark grayish olive sporothecae that fade to smoke gray with age, shallow saucer-shaped cups with marked reticulations and thick papillae on the inner surface, a netted capillitium with many bulges, uniformly marked with low, dense, and irregular reticulations, and spores (8.0–)9.3–10.1(–10.9) μm in diameter, marked with sparse small warts and grouped prominent warts. Apart from a comprehensive morphological study, partial sequences of the nuclear 18S rDNA and elongation factor-1 alpha (EF-1α) genes were also provided in this study. This new species was described and illustrated morphologically. The specimens are deposited in the Herbarium of Fungi of Nanjing Normal University (HFNNU). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) complicated by mesenteric malperfusion is a critical and complicated condition. The optimal treatment strategy remains controversial, debate exists as to whether aortic dissection or mesenteric malperfusion should be addressed first, and the exact time window for mesenteric ischemia intervention is still unclear. To solve this problem, we developed a new concept based on the pathophysiological mechanism of mesenteric ischemia, using a 6-hour time window to divide newly admitted patients by the time from onset to admission, applying different treatment protocols to improve the clinical outcomes of patients with ATAAD complicated by mesenteric malperfusion. Methods: This was a retrospective study that covered a five-year period. From July 2018 to December 2020(phase I), all patients underwent emergency open surgery. From January 2021 to June 2023(phase II), patients with an onset within 6 h all underwent open surgical repair, followed by immediately postoperative examination if the malperfusion is suspected, while the restoration of mesenteric perfusion and visceral organ function was performed first, followed by open repair, in patients with an onset beyond 6 h. Results: There were no significant differences in baseline and surgical data. In phase I, eleven patients with mesenteric malperfusion underwent open surgery, while in phase II, our novel strategy was applied, with sixteen patients with an onset greater than 6 h and eleven patients with an onset less than 6 h. During the waiting period, none died of aortic rupture, but four patients died of organ failure, twelve patients had organ function improvement and underwent surgery successfully survived. The overall mortality rate decreased with the use of this novel strategy (54.55% vs. 18.52%, p = 0.047). Furthermore, the surgical mortality rate between the two periods showed even stronger statistical significance (54.55% vs. 4.35%, p = 0.022). Moreover, the proportions of patients with sepsis and multiorgan failure also showed differences. Conclusions: Our novel strategy for patients with ATAAD complicated by mesenteric malperfusion not only improves the surgical success rate but also reduces the overall mortality rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Patients undergoing video-assisted thoracoscopic lobectomy (VATL) often experience chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP). Postoperative pain can affect the recovery of postoperative lung function, prolong postoperative recovery time, and increase patient hospitalization expenses. Transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) is an alternative therapy based on acupuncture that has shown promise in postoperative recovery and pain management across various medical fields. However, research specifically focused on the improvement of CPSP after VATL is currently lacking. The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether TEAS can effectively reduce the severity and occurrence of chronic postsurgical pain in patients undergoing VATL. By investigating the potential benefits of TEAS in mitigating CPSP after VATL, this study aims to provide valuable clinical evidence to support the integration of TEAS into postoperative care protocols for patients undergoing VATL. Methods: This study is a prospective, single-center, double-blinded, randomized controlled trial to be conducted at the 920th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force. Eighty patients undergoing VATL will be randomly divided into an experimental group (TEAS group) and a control group (sham group). The experimental group will receive TEAS at bilateral PC6, LI4, LR3, LU5, TE5, and LI11. The control group will not receive TEAS at the same acupoints. Both groups will receive TEAS or no TEAS before anesthesia induction and 1–7 days after surgery, with each session lasting 30 min. Planned Outcomes: The primary outcome will be the incidence of CPSP at 3 months after surgery. Secondary outcomes will include the incidence of CPSP at 6 months after surgery, the numerical rating scale (NRS) scores at 3 and 6 months after surgery, as well as the NRS scores at 24, 48, and 72 h after surgery, remifentanil consumption during general anesthesia, demand for rescue analgesics, number and duration of indwelling chest tubes, incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting, and changes of norepinephrine (NE), cortisol (Cor), tumor necrosis factor (TNF- α), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) in serum. Trial Registration: ChiCTR2300069458. Registered on March 16, 2023. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The surface structure and chemical properties of Y‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ) have been subjects of intense debate over the past three decades. However, a thorough understanding of chemical processes occurring at YSZ powders faces significant challenges due to the absence of reliable reference data acquired for well‐controlled model systems. Here, we present results from polarization‐resolved infrared reflection absorption spectroscopy (IRRAS) obtained for differently oriented, Y‐doped ZrO2 single‐crystal surfaces after exposure to CO and D2O. The IRRAS data reveal that the polar YSZ(100) surface undergoes reconstruction, characterized by an unusual, red‐shifted CO band at 2132 cm−1. Density functional theory calculations allowed to relate this unexpected observation to under‐coordinated Zr4+ cations in the vicinity of doping‐induced O vacancies. This reconstruction leads to a strongly increased chemical reactivity and water spontaneously dissociates on YSZ(100). The latter, which is an important requirement for catalysing the water‐gas‐shift (WGS) reaction, is absent for YSZ(111), where only associative adsorption was observed. Together with a novel analysis Scheme these reference data allowed for an operando characterisation of YSZ powders using DRIFTS (diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy). These findings facilitate rational design and tuning of YSZ‐based powder materials for catalytic applications, in particular CO oxidation and the WGS reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myeloperoxidase (MPO) plays critical role in the pathology of cerebral ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury via producing hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and inducing oxidative modification of proteins. High-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) oxidation, particularly disulfide HMGB1 formation, facilitates the secretion and release of HMGB1 and activates neuroinflammation, aggravating cerebral I/R injury. However, the cellular sources of MPO/HOCl in ischemic brain injury are unclear yet. Whether HOCl could promote HMGB1 secretion and release remains unknown. In the present study, we investigated the roles of microglia-derived MPO/HOCl in mediating HMGB1 translocation and secretion, and aggravating the brain damage and blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption in cerebral I/R injury. In vitro, under the co-culture conditions with microglia BV cells but not the single culture conditions, oxygen–glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) significantly increased MPO/HOCl expression in PC12 cells. After the cells were exposed to OGD/R, MPO-containing exosomes derived from BV2 cells were released and transferred to PC12 cells, increasing MPO/HOCl in the PC12 cells. The HOCl promoted disulfide HMGB1 translocation and secretion and aggravated OGD/R-induced apoptosis. In vivo, SD rats were subjected to 2 h of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) plus different periods of reperfusion. Increased MPO/HOCl production was observed at the reperfusion stage, accomplished with enlarged infarct volume, aggravated BBB disruption and neurological dysfunctions. Treatment of MPO inhibitor 4-aminobenzoic acid hydrazide (4-ABAH) and HOCl scavenger taurine reversed those changes. HOCl was colocalized with cytoplasm transferred HMGB1, which was blocked by taurine in rat I/R-injured brain. We finally performed a clinical investigation and found that plasma HOCl concentration was positively correlated with infarct volume and neurological deficit scores in ischemic stroke patients. Taken together, we conclude that ischemia/hypoxia could activate microglia to release MPO-containing exosomes that transfer MPO to adjacent cells for HOCl production; Subsequently, the production of HOCl could mediate the translocation and secretion of disulfide HMGB1 that aggravates cerebral I/R injury. Furthermore, plasma HOCl level could be a novel biomarker for indexing brain damage in ischemic stroke patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-dimensional (2D) covalent organic framework (COF) membranes featuring well-aligned and programmable vertical nanochannels have emerged as a promising candidate for advanced nanofluidic devices and showcased vast potential in the fields of smart-gating, ion-separation, and energy-harvesting. However, the transverse interlayer nanochannels with a height of sub-nanometer-scale in 2D-COF membranes have scarcely been studied in comparison. Here, we report the ion transport characteristics in 2D interlayer nanochannels of protonated COF membranes. The distinct surface-charge-governed ionic conductance in domination of electrolyte concentration below 10−3 M as well as the exceptional anion/cation (Cl−/K+) selectivity is revealed due to the pronounced charge and nano-confinement effects. Additionally, evident ion current rectification is witnessed when incorporating asymmetric geometry into the system, which is attributed to the dynamic process of ion enrichment and dissipation within the protonated nanochannels. This work offers immense prospects for 2D-COF membranes in the fields of biomimetic nanofluidic devices and cutting-edge electronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microstructural characterization of Basalt Fiber Reinforced Polymer (BFRP) bars under seawater deterioration (dry–wet cycles modes and immersion modes) was performed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray energy spectrum analyzer (EDS). Then, uniaxial compressive tests were carried out on the corroded BFRP bars to explore the effects of different corrosion periods, diameters, and slenderness ratios on the degradation of compressive performance and durability in seawater corrosion and constraint condition. The results showed that dry–wet cycles of seawater caused patchy pitting on the surfaces of BFRP bar, and white granular foams adhered to the bar surface after seawater immersion. The internal microstructure of BFRP bar was deteriorated, and the bonding force between the fiber and resin was reduced with the increase of dry–wet cycles. Five failure modes of BFRP bars occurred in uniaxial compressive tests, namely crushing failure, transverse cracking failure, shearing failure, splitting failure, and buckling failure. The increase of corrosion cycles significantly decreased the bearing capacity and compressive strength, but had little effect on the compressive elastic modulus of BFRP bars. The dry–wet cycles of seawater was more harmful to the mechanical properties of BFRP bars than immersion corrosion. Meanwhile, the mechanical properties of BFRP bars were affected by their diameters and slenderness ratios to some extent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tetrasubstituted naphthalene diimide compound QN-302 binds to G-quadruplex (G4) DNA structures. It shows high potency in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells and inhibits the transcription of cancer-related genes in these cells and in PDAC animal models. It is currently in Phase 1a clinical evaluation as an anticancer drug. A study of structure–activity relationships of QN-302 and two related analogues (CM03 and SOP1247) is reported here. These have been probed using comparisons of transcriptional profiles from whole-genome RNA-seq analyses, together with molecular modelling and molecular dynamics simulations. Compounds CM03 and SOP1247 differ by the presence of a methoxy substituent in the latter: these two compounds have closely similar transcriptional profiles. Whereas QN-302 (with an additional benzyl-pyrrolidine group), although also showing down-regulatory effects in the same cancer-related pathways, has effects on distinct genes, for example in the hedgehog pathway. This distinctive pattern of genes affected by QN-302 is hypothesized to contribute to its superior potency compared to CM03 and SOP1247. Its enhanced ability to stabilize G4 structures has been attributed to its benzyl-pyrrolidine substituent fitting into and filling most of the space in a G4 groove compared to the hydrogen atom in CM03 or the methoxy group substituent in SOP1247. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To explore the relationship between serum miRNA-21 and miR-27b levels and prognosis of patients with renal clear cell carcinoma. Methods A total of 118 patients with renal clear cell carcinoma admitted to the Qinghai University Hospital from February 2019 to April 2021 were selected as the study subjects, and another 118 healthy patients in the same period as the control group. Real time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction ( PCR) was used to detect the expression of miR-21 and miR-27b in the serum of all subjects. The relative expression levels of serum miR-21 and miR-27b between the patients with renal clear cell carcinoma and healthy control patients were compared. The expression and correlation of serum miR-21 and miR-27b in the patients with renal clear cell carcinoma of different pathological stages and Fuhrman grading were analyzed. The relationship between the expression of serum miR-21 and miR-27b and the survival and prognosis of the patients was explored as well. Results The expression levels of serum miR-21 and miR-27b in the patients with renal clear cell carcinoma were higher than those in the healthy control group (P < 0.05). The serum miR-21 expression level in stage IE patients was higher than in stage I (P < 0.05), while the serum miR-21 expression level in the stage IV patients was higher than that in stages I, II, and IE (P < 0.05). The expression level of miR-27b in the serum of patients gradually increased across the four stages, with a significant difference (P < 0.05). The pathological staging was positively correlated with the expression of miR-21 and miR-27b (P < 0.001). The expression levels of miR-21 and miR-27b in serum of patients gradually increased across grades I, E and IE by Fuhrman grading, with significant difference (P < 0.05). Fuhrman grading was positively correlated with the serum miR-21 and miR-27b expression (P < 0.001). There was a statistically significant difference in the survival curve between the miR-21 high expression group and the low expression group ( P < 0.05 ) . There was a statistically significant difference in the survival curve between the high expression group and the low expression group of miR-27b (P < 0.05). Conclusion The expression levels of serum miR-21 and miR-27b in patients with renal clear cell carcinoma is indicative of the progression and prognosis of the patient's condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tetrasubstituted naphthalene diimide compound QN-302 binds to G-quadruplex (G4) DNA structures. It shows high potency in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells and inhibits the transcription of cancer-related genes in these cells and in PDAC animal models. It is currently in Phase 1a clinical evaluation as an anticancer drug. A study of structure–activity relationships of QN-302 and two related analogues (CM03 and SOP1247) is reported here. These have been probed using comparisons of transcriptional profiles from whole-genome RNA-seq analyses, together with molecular modelling and molecular dynamics simulations. Compounds CM03 and SOP1247 differ by the presence of a methoxy substituent in the latter: these two compounds have closely similar transcriptional profiles. Whereas QN-302 (with an additional benzyl-pyrrolidine group), although also showing down-regulatory effects in the same cancer-related pathways, has effects on distinct genes, for example in the hedgehog pathway. This distinctive pattern of genes affected by QN-302 is hypothesized to contribute to its superior potency compared to CM03 and SOP1247. Its enhanced ability to stabilize G4 structures has been attributed to its benzyl-pyrrolidine substituent fitting into and filling most of the space in a G4 groove compared to the hydrogen atom in CM03 or the methoxy group substituent in SOP1247. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paralipsa gularis (Zeller) is a storage pest; however, in recent years it has evolved into a considerable maize pest during the late growth stage in the border region between China and other Southeast Asian countries. Bt transgenic insect-resistant maize is an effective measure in controlling a wide range of lepidopteran pests, but there is a lack of research on the toxic effects of storage pests. We tested the toxicity of Bt-Cry1Ab, Vip3Aa, and their complex proteins against P. gularis via bioassay and investigated the efficiency of Bt-(Cry1Ab+Vip3Aa) maize in controlling P. gularis during the late growth stage of maize in the period 2022–2023. The bioassay results show that the susceptibilities of P. gularis to the two Bt proteins and their complex proteins were significantly different. The LC50 values of DBNCry1Ab ("DBN9936" event), DBNVip3Aa ("DBN9501" event), DBN Cry1Ab+Vip3Aa ("DBN3601T" event), and Syngenta Cry1Ab+Vip3Aa ("Bt11" event × "MIR162" event) were 0.038 μg/g, 0.114 μg/g, 0.110 μg/g, and 0.147 μg/g, and the GIC50 values were 0.014 μg/g, 0.073 μg/g, 0.027 μg/g, and 0.026 μg/g, respectively. Determination of the expression content of the insecticidal protein in different tissues of Bt-(Cry1Ab+Vip3Aa) maize shows that the total Bt protein content in different tissues was in the following order: stalk > bract > cob > kernel. However, the bioassay results show that the mortalities of P. gularis feeding on Bt-(Cry1Ab+Vip3Aa) maize in different tissues at different growth stages were all above 93.00%. The field trial indicates that the occurrence density of larvae and plant damage rate for conventional maize were 422.10 individuals/100 plants and 94.40%, respectively, whereas no larvae were found on Bt-(Cry1Ab+Vip3Aa) maize. In summary, this study implies that Bt-(Cry1Ab+Vip3Aa) maize has a high potential for control of P. gularis, providing a new technical measure for the management of the pest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To develop a nomogram based on preoperative clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features for the microvascular invasion (MVI) status in solitary intrahepatic mass-forming cholangiocarcinoma (sIMCC) and to evaluate whether it could predict recurrence-free survival (RFS). Methods: We included 115 cases who experienced MRI examinations for sIMCC with R0 resection. The preoperative clinical and MRI features were extracted. Independent predictors related to MVI+ were evaluated by stepwise multivariate logistic regression, and a nomogram was constructed. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to assess the predictive ability. All patients were classified into high- and low-risk groups of MVI. Then, the correlations of the nomogram with RFS in patents with sIMCC were analyzed by Kaplan–Meier method. Results: The occurrence rate of MVI+ was 38.3% (44/115). The preoperative independent predictors of MVI+ were carbohydrate antigen 19-9 > 37 U/ml, tumor size > 5 cm, and an ill-defined tumor boundary. Integrating these predictors, the nomogram exerted a favorable diagnostic performance with areas under the ROC curve of 0.767 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.654–0.881) in the development cohort, and 0.760 (95% CI 0.591–0.929) in the validation cohort. In the RFS analysis, significant differences were observed between the high- and low-risk MVI groups (6-month RFS rates: 64.5% vs. 78.8% and 46.7% vs. 82.4% in the development and validation cohorts, respectively) (P < 0.05). Conclusions: A nomogram based on clinical and MRI features is a potential biomarker of MVI and may be a potent method to classify the risk of recurrence in patients with sIMCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of nano fertilizers is one of the hotspots in current agricultural production. In this study, nano silicon materials were mixed with compound fertilizers to make nano silicon fertilizer. The effects of different amounts of nano silicon application on the breaking-resistance strength, lodging-resistance index, lignin accumulation, lignin synthesis related enzymes, and the relative expression of lignin synthesis related genes in the second stem node of wheat were mainly studied. Four treatments were set up: CK (750 kg·ha−1 compound fertilizer), T1 (750 kg·ha−1 compound fertilizer + 0.9 kg·ha−1 nano silicon), T2 (750 kg·ha−1 compound fertilizer + 1.8 kg·ha−1 nano silicon), T3 (750 kg·ha−1 compound fertilizer + 2.7 kg·ha−1 nano silicon). The results of the two-year experiment showed that the breaking-resistance strength, lodging-resistance index, lignin accumulation in the second stem node of wheat treated with nano silicon fertilizer were higher than CK. In the first year of the experiment, the lignin accumulation of T2 was 130.73%, 5.14% and 7.25% higher than that of CK, T1 and T3 respectively at the maturity stage. In the second year of the experiment, the lignin accumulation of T2 was 20.33%, 11.19% and 9.89% higher than that of CK, T1 and T3 respectively at the maturity stage. And the activities of PAL, 4CL, CAD, and related gene expression levels were also higher than CK. And among them, T2 performed the best, indicating that the application of nano silicon fertilizer is beneficial for improving the lodging resistance of wheat stems and is of great significance for improving the quality of wheat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single atom catalysts had been widely used in oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). However, the relationship between local coordination environment and catalytic activity were unclear. In this work, the effect of N‐defect and axial halogen atoms on electrocatalytic OER/ORR activity of FeN4 catalysts were investigated by density functional theory calculations (DFT). When the overpotential was the only criterion, FeN3Br was the optimal candidates for OER, followed by FeN3F, FeN4I, FeN4Cl and FeN4Br; FeN4I, FeN4Br and FeN4Cl were also the promising candidates for ORR. FeN4I, FeN4Br and FeN4Cl may be excellent ORR catalysts in an acidic media because of the low overpotential and reaction barrier of kinetics rate limiting step. In summary, N‐defect and axial halogen atoms can effectively balance kinetics, thermodynamics and catalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incorporation of rare earth oxides and nano-silica has been found to significantly enhance the mechanical and tribological characteristics of phenolic-based hybrid nanocomposites. In this work, the impact of these additives was investigated through single-factor experiments. The study revealed that cerium oxide and yttrium oxide were the primary factors influencing changes in the impact strength, shear strength, coefficient of friction, and wear rate. Additionally, the content of nano-silica exerted the most substantial influence on the hardness and compressive strength of the specimens. Furthermore, the material ratios of the phenolic-based hybrid nanocomposites were optimized using an orthogonal experimental design and a fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method. The optimal material ratio for these nanocomposites was determined to be 2% cerium oxide, 2.5% yttrium oxide, and 3% nano-silica, based on their mechanical, frictional, and wear properties. This research provides valuable insights for the development of new brake friction materials with low friction and high wear resistance and contributes to meeting the demand for polymer composites with superior mechanical performance in diverse applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to establish a nomogram based on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features to predict the very early recurrence (VER, less than 6 months) of intrahepatic mass-forming cholangiocarcinoma (IMCC) after R0 resection. Methods: This study enrolled a group of 193 IMCC patients from our institution between March 2010 and January 2022. Patients were allocated into the development cohort (n = 137) and the validation cohort (n = 56), randomly, and the preoperative clinical and MRI features were collected. Univariate and multivariate stepwise logistic regression assessments were adopted to assess predictors of VER. Nomogram was constructed and certificated in the validation cohort. The performance of the prediction nomogram was evaluated by its discrimination, calibration, and clinical utility. The performance of the nomogram was compared with the T stage of the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) 8th edition staging system. Results: Fifty-three patients (27.5%) experienced VER of the tumor and 140 patients (72.5%) with non-VER, during the follow-up period. After multivariate stepwise logistic regression, number of lesions, diffuse hypoenhancement on arterial phase, necorsis and suspicious lymph nodes were independently associated with VER. The nomogram demonstrated significantly higher area under the curve (AUC) of 0.813 than T stage (AUC = 0.666, P = 0.006) in the development cohort, whereas in the validation cohort, the nomogram showed better discrimination performance, with an AUC of 0.808 than T stage (0.705) with no significantly difference (P = 0.230). Decision curve analysis reflected the clinical net benefit of the nomogram. Conclusion: The nomogram based on preoperative MRI features is a reliable tool to predict VER for patients with IMCC after R0 resection. This nomogram will be helpful to improve survival prediction and individualized treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To analyze the influencing factors on urinary control after laparoscopic radical prostatectomy in elderly patients. Methods Clinical data of 180 elderly patients with prostate cancer who underwent laparoscopic radical prostatectomy in our hospital from January 2021 to January 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Based on whether urinary incontinence has occurred, the patients were divided into the observation group (43 cases with urinary incontinence) and the control group (137 cases without urinary incontinence). Univariate analysis was used to analyze the influencing factors of urinary control after laparoscopic radical prostatectomy in the elderly, and multivariate Logistic regression was used to analyze the risk factors of urinary control after laparoscopic radical prostatectomy in the elderly. Survey factors included age, body mass index, history of diabetes mellitus, history of hypertension, prostate volume, past TURP history, intraoperative and postoperative blood transfusion, post-operative pathological T staging, post-operative pathological margin, length of urethral reserve, Gleason score, bladder neck intact preservation. Results The univariate analysis revealed no statistical differences in the history of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, intraoperative and postoperative blood transfusion, post-operative pathological T stage, post-operative pathological margin and Gleason score between the two groups (P>0. 05), and significant differences in age, body mass index, prostate volume, past TURP history, urethral retention length, bladder neck intact preservation (P <0. 05). The results of multivariate analysis showed that the differences in the above univariate analysis were statistically significant. Multivariate analysis showed that age, body mass index, prostate volume, TURP history, urethral retention length and bladder neck intact retention were risk factors for urinary control after laparoscopic radical prostatectomy in the elderly. Conclusion Urinary control after laparoscopic radical prostatectomy in the elderly has many influencing factors. To reduce the incidence of urinary incontinence after prostate cancer surgery and improve the life quality of patients, some effective measures should be taken to address these risk factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Aims Methods Results Conclusions Nanofertilisers can enhance the efficiency of nutrient utilization in crop production. Nevertheless, it is unclear how soil microbial and enzyme activities are affected by the application of nanofertilisers to wheat inter‐root soil.The study aims to investigate the influences of nanocarbon (NC) and nano‐calcium carbonate (NCC) on soil enzyme activities and microbial community in the open field setting.The effects of nanofertilisers on soil wheat rhizosphere soil were studied through the evaluation of soil microbial quantity, enzyme activity, and microbial diversity.The findings revealed that the combined utilization of nanofertilizers and compound fertilizers (CF) led to an augmentation in the diversity of the soil microbial community. When comparing the effects of 100% composite nanofertilizers (100% CF + 50% NC + 50% NCC) with the control (CK) (100% CF), it was observed that the activities of urease (EC 3.5.1.5), catalase (EC 1.11.1.6), alkaline phosphatase (EC 3.1.3.1), sucrase (EC.3.2.1.26), as well as the number of fungi, actinomycetes, and bacteria, increased by 22.4%, 7.7%, 17.8%, 9.3%, 35.9%, 27.7%, and 26.0%, respectively. Similarly, the employment of 70% composite nanofertilizers (70% CF + 35% NC + 35% NCC) also resulted in an enhancement of these aforementioned indicators. The magnitude of increase over the 100% CF was 19.0%, 6.6%, 13.6%, 6.2%, 26.8%, 21.3%, and 23.5%, respectively. Notably, there was no significant difference observed between 100% CF + 50% NC + 50 % NCC and 70% CF + 35% NC + 35% NCC within the 0–35 d after anthesis. Furthermore, both 100% CF + 50% NC + 50% NCC and 70% CF + 35% NC + 35% NCC contributed to an improvement in the species uniformity and operational taxonomic unit abundance of wheat rhizosphere microorganisms, while also increasing the abundance of Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria compared to the CK. The relative abundance of Bacteroidetes and Actinobacteria was found to be elevated in the nanomaterials‐treated groups, both at 0–7 d and 14–21 d after anthesis, and positively correlated with soil enzyme activities and soil microbial populations.These results indicate that the application of composite nanofertilizers can enhance the soil microenvironment in wheat fields, particularly under reduced fertilization conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study the coexistence of limit cycles in a predator-prey model of Leslie type with generalized Holling type III functional response. When the prey reproduces much faster than the predator, we prove for this model that: (i) the existence of the configuration of one large stable limit cycle enclosing two small unstable limit cycles, (ii) the cyclicity of singular double-head canard cycles is three and reached, and (iii) the coexistence of two stable limit cycles surrounding three equilibria. The last result gives a positive answer to Coleman's problem on the coexistence of two ecologically stable limit cycles in predator-prey models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SiC particle (SiCp) size has been found to significantly influence the hot workability of particle-reinforced aluminum matrix composites (AMC). In this work, therefore, three types of SiCp/6013 composites with different SiCp sizes (0.7, 5 and 15 μm) were prepared and then subjected to isothermal hot compression tests. In addition, constitutive analysis, processing maps and microstructural characterizations were used to reveal the influence of SiCp size on the hot workability of SiCp/6013 composite. The results showed that the values of hot deformation activation energy Q increased with decreasing SiCp size. Specifically, at lower temperatures (e.g., 350 and 400 °C), the highest peak stress was shown in the AMC with SiCp size of 0.7 μm (AMC-0.7), while in the AMC with SiCp size of 5 μm (AMC-5) at higher temperatures (e.g., 450 and 500 °C). This is because a finer SiCp size would lead to stronger dislocation pinning and grain refinement strengthening effects, and such effects would be weakened at higher temperatures. Further, dynamic softening mechanisms were found to transform from dynamic recovery to dynamic recrystallization with increasing SiCp size, and the dynamic recrystallization occurred more easily at higher temperatures and lower strain rates. Consequently, the instability zones of the composites are all mainly located in the deformation region with lower temperature and higher strain rate, and smaller SiCp results in larger instability zones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study the destabilization of synchronous periodic solutions for general patch-models with cross-diffusion-like couplings, where the underlying kinetic systems have stable periodic solutions bifurcating from double homoclinic loops. We first reduce the stability problem of synchronous periodic solutions for patch models into that for lower-dimensional systems, then analyze the destabilization by using the Floquet theory and solving a class of boundary value problems. After establishing the Fredholm alternative properties for an auxiliary linear operator, we give the characteristic function to determine the Floquet spectra for the reduced systems, and then the conditions for the destabilization. Finally, we apply the main results to a patch model with a two-dimensional kinetic system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to achieve the synthesis of contracted graphs (CGs) automatically by given associated linkages (ALs), a new feature description method is proposed and a software is constructed. First of all, a connection method substring (CMS) is proposed and the related guidelines are given. The combination of characteristic strings (CSs) and CMSs can accurately describe the type, number, and connection relationship between the basic links in a CG. Secondly, a synthesis software by computer aided design (CAD) is constructed, and the interface of the software and the main functions of the compiled programs are explained. Finally, the software operation is carried out, and the effectiveness and complexity of the implemented algorithms are proved. Taking typical ALs 1Q1T3P and 1Q6T as examples, the feature description is generated and the CGs are drawn automatically. The research results of this paper achieve one-to-one correspondence between a CG and its feature description and draws the CGs by given ALs automatically, which avoids the omission and repetition of the CGs during the synthesis process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared to other settings, COVID-19 infection and death rates in Hong Kong were very low until 2022, due to top-down interventions (e.g. quarantines, 'mask mandates') and community activation. However, in addition to these epidemiological circumstances, Hong Kong has also undergone significant social and political change stemming from the social movement beginning in 2019 through the enacting, and aftermath, of the National Security Law. We draw on registered birth and marriage data from 2015 through 2021 to explore how fertility and nuptiality changed after the social movement followed by the first four waves of the COVID pandemic. We describe how fertility and marriage rates have changed in Hong Kong and to what extent the changes are associated with the social movement and the COVID pandemic. We further disaggregate the fertility and nuptiality trends by Hong Kong-born and non-Hong Kong-born population, with a specific focus on migrants from the Mainland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing a more effective catalyst for the environmental pollutant is always the pursuit of worldwide researchers. In previous reports, most works were focused on prepared catalysts, and more efforts should explore process from a precursor to the formed catalyst. In this work, V supported TiO 2 catalysts were synthesized with different V loadings, and compared in selective catalytic reduction of nitrogen oxide. For the first time, differential scanning calorimetry was used to analyze the forming enthalpy for these catalysts. As a result, turnover frequency (TOF) was decreased from 0.05 to 0.001 s−1 when the loading was increased from 0.05 to 15 mol%. At the same time, the forming enthalpy was decreased from 16.53 to 1.80 KJ·mol−1. Spherical Aberration Corrected Transmission Electron Microscope recognized both single-atom and cluster V even at the lowest loading. What's more, density functional theory revealed that single-atom V had a lower dehydrogenation energy (1.088–1.152 eV) than cluster V during the catalysis (1.834–1.850 eV). According to these evidences, single-atom V had bigger formation enthalpy, lower dehydrogenation energy, and larger TOF than cluster V. These results help to optimize the preparation process for an effective catalyst, which is in favor of hazardous-pollutant treatment. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Periodic traveling waves (PTWs, wavetrains) have been extensively used to understand spatiotemporal oscillations observed in a number of field datasets. The aim of this paper is to investigate the existence, period functions and stability of PTWs with large speed in general two component reaction-diffusion systems. We first show the existence of small-amplitude (or large-amplitude) PTWs arising from Hopf bifurcation around a weak focus of order m (or from bifurcation of periodic orbits around a m-fold limit cycle). Second, we give the dominant terms of their period functions, which rarely appear in the existing references. Third, we establish the instability of PTWs in terms of the first-order derivative of their period functions. Our results indicate that the stability of small-amplitude PTWs depends on not only the real parts of the Lyapunov coefficients but also their imaginary parts. The invariant manifold theory developed by Fenichel is applied, along with bifurcation theory of planar dynamical systems. Finally, we apply the main results to a host-generalist parasitoid model for the biological control of a leafminer population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of anode materials with ideal conductivity, ultra-fast ion diffusion energy and large storage capacity is of great significance for rechargeable ion batteries, but also still challenging. In this work, the potential of two-dimensional MgB2 as an anode material of alkali metal (Na and K) ion batteries was explored via first-principles calculation. The results show that MgB2 has good structural stability and electrochemical performance. Specifically, Na and K ions can be stably adsorbed on two-dimensional MgB2, and the diffusion barrier is 0. 302 and 0. 172 eV, respectively, indicating its high performance in ultra-fast charging and discharging process. More importantly, the maximum storage capacities of two-dimensional MgB2 for sodium ion and potassium ion batteries are 1 167 and 584 mA ⋅ h/g, respectively. These results demonstrate that two-dimensional MgB2 can be used as a promising anode material for sodium ion and potassium ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the electrochemiluminescence (ECL) of metal nanoclusters has been reported, revealing the correlation between structure and ECL at an atomic level is highly challenging. Here, we reported the impact of the metal core of Au20(SAdm)12(CHT)4 (Au20-AC for short; SAdm = 1-adamantanethiolate; CHT= cyclohexanethiol) and its isomer Au20(TBBT)16 (TBBT = 4-tert-butylthiophenol) on their solution-state and solid-state electrochemiluminescence. In self-annihilation ECL experiments, Au20-AC showed a strong cathodic ECL but a weak anodic ECL, while the ECL signal of Au20(TBBT)16 was weak and barely detectable. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations showed that the Au7 kernel of [Au20-AC]- is metastable, weakening its anodic ECL. Au20-AC in solution-state displayed an intense co-reactant ECL in the near-infrared region, which is 7 times higher than that of standard Ru(bpy)32+. The strongest solid-state ECL emissions of Au20-AC and Au20(TBBT)16 were at 860 and 770 nm, respectively — 15 nm red-shifted for Au20-AC and 20 nm blue-shifted for Au20(TBBT)16, compared to their corresponding solid-state photoluminescence (PL) emissions. This work shows that ECL is significantly affected by the subtle differences of the metal core, and offers a potential basis for sensing and immunoassay platforms based on atomically precise emissive metal nanoclusters. Metal nanoclusters have shown great promise as electrochemiluminescence (ECL) luminophores, but understanding the relationship between ECL and atomic structure is highly challenging. Here, the ECL of nanocluster isomers Au20(SAdm)12(CHT)4 and Au20(TBBT)16 is studied, giving insight into structure–property relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and hypothesis: The aim of this study was to compare the surgical results and the complications of absorbable suture (AS) versus permanent suture (PS) in sacrocolpopexy (SCP). Methods: We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the Cochrane Library Central Register of Controlled Trials for articles in which researchers compared AS with PS in SCP. The primary outcomes were the surgical success rate and suture-related complications (suture exposure/erosion, mesh erosion, and suture removal). All analyses were performed with Review Manager 5.3. Results: Four articles involving 689 patients were ultimately included. Our findings demonstrated that AS had similar surgical success rates to those of PS (OR=1.34; 95% CI, 0.60–2.96) and no significant differences in failure rates were noted between the two groups (OR=0.75; 95% CI, 0.34–1.66). Subgroup analyses in patients with anatomical failure revealed no significant differences in recurrent posterior prolapse (OR=0.33; 95% CI, 0.05–2.10) or in recurrent apical (OR=0.64; 95% CI, 0.03–13.66) or anterior prolapse (OR=0.45; 95% CI, 0.13–1.57). However, the AS group were at a lower risk of suture exposure/erosion (OR=0.18; 95% CI, 0.06–0.58) and a lower suture removal rate (OR=0.14; 95% CI, 0.03–0.61) and retreatment (OR=0.36; 95% CI, 0.16–0.82), but the mesh erosion was not significantly different (OR=1.00; 95% CI, 0.49–2.08). Conclusions: The data showed that AS had a similar success rate, less exposure/erosion, and were less likely to be removed and require retreatment than PS, which supported the notion that AS is as effective as PS but safer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In regions where the development of formal finance is relatively lagging behind, commercial credit has partially replaced the role of formal finance and facilitated the development of the private economy and even the country, thus making commercial credit an important entry point for understanding and promoting sustainable economic development. Taking the Hangzhou Bay Greater Bay Area as a case study, based on the City Business Credit Environment Index (CEI) from 2015 to 2019, we examine the characteristics of business credit networks using social network analysis and discuss the impact of business credit on urban green economy efficiency heterogeneity by drawing on spatial econometrics. The study confirms that the structure of business credit networks in the Hangzhou Bay Greater Bay Area tends to be dense, the network density and number of connections show growth, the spatial network structure is taking shape, and the strength of spatial connections among cities has increased. Hangzhou, Shaoxing, Jiaxing and Shanghai are at the centre of the network and play a radiation-driven role. The business credit network in the Hangzhou Bay Greater Bay Area is characterised by self-stability and has evolved from a multi-centre to a single centre. Business credit is negatively correlated with the efficiency of the green economy in the Hangzhou Bay Area, which is a departure from the Chinese "financial development paradox". In terms of heterogeneity, the relationship remains consistent for port cities and open coastal cities in general, while the effect is less pronounced for cities above sub-provincial level. The study concludes that, with the high-quality economic development of the Hangzhou Bay Greater Bay Area, the Chinese "financial development paradox" does not exist in the region at this stage, which also highlights the need to accelerate the construction of a Chinese-style modernisation theory and practice system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional business process-extraction models mainly rely on structured data such as logs, which are difficult to apply to unstructured data such as images and videos, making it impossible to perform process extractions in many data scenarios. Moreover, the generated process model lacks analysis consistency of the process model, resulting in a single understanding of the process model. To solve these two problems, a method of extracting process models from videos and analyzing the consistency of process models is proposed. Video data are widely used to capture the actual performance of business operations and are key sources of business data. Video data preprocessing, action placement and recognition, predetermined models, and conformance verification are all included in a method for extracting a process model from videos and analyzing the consistency between the process model and the predefined model. Finally, the similarity was calculated using graph edit distances and adjacency relationships (GED_NAR). The experimental results showed that the process model mined from the video was better in line with how the business was actually carried out than the process model derived from the noisy process logs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in various pathological processes, such as proliferation, growth, and apoptosis, of intervertebral disc (IVD) cells and play an important role in the development of intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). Although some studies have reported the role of miRNAs in IDD, scientific econometric analysis in this field is not available. Objectives: We designed this study to describe the current research trends and potential mechanisms associated with the role of miRNAs in IDD and to provide new ideas for future research in this field. Methods: We conducted a bibliometric analysis of the publications on the role of miRNAs in IDD included in the Web of Science core collection database to elucidate the current research trends in this field. The potential mechanisms were constructed using the Arrowsmith project. Results: We found that the number of miRNAs and IDD-related publications increased over the years. China was the most important contributor to research in this field. The top three institutions in terms of number of articles published were Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and Xi'an Jiao Tong University. Shanghai Jiao Tong University had the highest number of citations. Experimental and thermal medicine had the maximum number of documents, and Cell promotion had the most citations. The journal with the most mean times cited per study was Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases. The author Wang K had the highest number of publications, and Wang HQ had the highest number of citations. These two authors made important contributions to the research in this field. The keyword analysis showed that recent studies have focused on miRNAs regulating nucleus pulposus cell apoptosis and proliferation. Moreover, we revealed the potential mechanisms of miRNAs associated with IDD, including miRNAs regulating the extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, mediating cartilage endplate (CEP) degeneration, and participating in inflammatory responses. Conclusion: We demonstrated the knowledge map of miRNAs and IDD-related research through bibliometric analysis and elucidated the current research status and hotspots in this field. The mechanisms by which miRNAs regulate the apoptosis and proliferation of degenerated IVDs, promote ECM degradation, mediate CEP degeneration, and participate in inflammatory responses should be explored in further studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the efficiency of fertilizers was improved by coating the fertilizers with a hydrogel formed by the polymerization of itaconic acid (IA), maleic acid (MA), acrylic acid (AA), and potassium persulfate (KPS) to form a synergistic fertilizer and improve its slow-release performance. The effect of synergistic fertilizers on the changes in soil nutrients in wheat fields was studied through field and soil column experiments using ordinary and commercial synergistic fertilizers as controls and different application rates of 'synergistic fertilizers as treatments. The results revealed that the alkali-hydrolyzed nitrogen (N) and total N contents were significantly higher in T1 than that in CK, and the treatments were ranked as T3 > T2 > T5 > T1 > CK > T4. The difference in the alkali-hydrolyzed N and total N contents between CK and T3 was significant. In terms of available phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) contents, the treatments were ranked as T1 > T4 > T2 > CK > T3 in all soil layers and T3 > T2 > T5 > T1 > CK > T4 in the soil column. The treatments were ranked as T4>CK>T3>T1>T2 in terms of soil organic matter (SOM) content. Compared with ordinary fertilizers, synergistic fertilizers could significantly increase the soil total N, alkali-hydrolyzed N, available P, and available K contents. Compared with ordinary slow-release fertilizers in the market, the effect of synergistic fertilizers is better in improving the use efficiency of fertilizers. By slowly releasing nutrients, synergistic fertilizers can continuously provide nutrients for the growth and development of wheat and improve the use efficiency of fertilizer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ideal family sizes remain at or above two in most low-fertility settings, but sub-replacement fertility ideals have been reported for urban China. The presence of restrictive family planning policies has led to a debate as to whether such ideals are genuine. This study exploits the ending of the one-child policy and the beginning of a universal two-child policy in October 2015 to investigate whether relaxing the restrictions led to an increase in ideal family size. We apply difference-in-differences and individual-level fixed-effect models to longitudinal data from a near-nationwide survey. For married individuals aged 20–39, relaxing the restrictions from one to two children increased the mean ideal family size by around 0.2 and the proportion who desired two or more children by around 19 percentage points. Findings suggest that although reported ideal family sizes have been reduced by policy restrictions, sub-replacement ideal family sizes in urban China appear to be genuine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we demonstrate the first example of natural product harmaline and its derivatives serving as useful N–C synthons in formal [3+2] cycloadditions with isothiocyanates for the construction of a library of spiropolycyclic harmaline-based hybrids containing two adjacent quaternary stereocentres. These products were smoothly afforded in up to 90% yield, 20 : 1 dr with Et3N as the catalyst under mild conditions. To the best of our knowledge, this also represents the first example of the synthesis of natural product harmaline-based spiropolycyclic scaffolds, and expands the chemical space of biologically significant harmaline derivative species. The newly synthesized structurally diverse compounds were evaluated for their in vitro anticancer activities. These studies indicate that some compounds displayed good anticancer activity against three tumor cells (A549, K562, and PC-3). Among them, compound 3cb displayed the best activity when applied to A549, which is similar to that of cisplatin. Preliminary mechanistic studies indicate that compound 3cb induces apoptosis in A549 cells through a caspase-dependent pathway. These results show that compound 3cb can be prepared as a good lead for drug development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The large‐scale use of fossil fuels had resulted in massive emission of CO2 and a series of serious environmental problems, which directly threatening human survival and sustainable development. CO2 is also the abundant carbon resource in C1 family. CO2 catalytic hydrogenation to CH4 is one of the effective ways to ultilize CO2 with low energy and high efficiency, which has been widely concerned in recent years. Suppoted nano‐Co/CeO2‐δ catalysts were prepared and evaluated their CO2 hydrogenation performances. XRD, H2‐TPR, H2‐TPD and CO2‐TPD had been conducted to study the physicochemical properties of the prepared Co/CeO2‐δ catalysts. The Co loading significantly affects the physicochemical properties and CO2 hydrogenation performances. The active metal Co species were highly diepersed on the CeO2 support surface. The number of active metal Co species, which formed by H2 reduction, increased with the increasing of Co loading. And the ability to adsorb and activate the reactant H2 and CO2 molecules was also enhanced, which effectively promoted the CO2 hydrogenation performances. Among of the studied Co/CeO2‐δ catalysts, the CoCe09 catalyst with Co loading of 9 % showed the best CO2 catalytic hydrogenation activity. In the reaction temperature of 240–400 °C, the CO2 conversion and CH4 selectivity follow the order: CoCe01

Purpose: The aim of this retrospective study was to develop and validate a preoperative nomogram for predicting microvascular invasion (MVI) in patients with intrahepatic mass-forming cholangiocarcinoma (IMCC) based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Methods: In this retrospective study, 224 consecutive patients with clinicopathologically confirmed IMCC were enrolled. Patients whose data were collected from February 2010 to December 2020 were randomly divided into the training (131 patients) and internal validation (51 patients) datasets. The data from January 2021 to November 2021 (42 patients) were allocated to the time-independent validation dataset. Univariate and multivariate forward logistic regression analyses were used to identify preoperative MRI features that were significantly related to MVI, which were then used to develop the nomogram. We used the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and calibration curve to evaluate the performance of the nomogram. Results: Interobserver agreement of MRI qualitative features was good to excellent, with κ values of 0.613–0.882. Multivariate analyses indicated that the following variables were independent predictors of MVI: multiple tumours (odds ratio [OR]) = 4.819, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.562–14.864, P = 0.006), ill-defined margin (OR = 6.922, 95% CI 2.883–16.633, P < 0.001), and carbohydrate antigen 19–9 (CA 19–9) > 37 U/ml (OR = 2.890, 95% CI 1.211–6.897, P = 0.017). A nomogram incorporating these factors was established using well-fitted calibration curves. The nomogram showed good diagnostic efficacy for MVI, with AUC values of 0.838, 0.819, and 0.874 for the training, internal validation, and time-independent validation datasets, respectively. Conclusion: A nomogram constructed using independent factors, namely the presence of multiple tumours, ill-defined margins, and CA 19–9 > 37 U/ml could predict the presence of MVI. This can facilitate personalised therapeutic strategy and clinical management in patients with IMCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study focused on casual sex motivation to explore why some users tend to have more sexual partners and are more likely to take risks in sexual practices, thereby raising their chances of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Methods: We recruited Chinese heterosexual dating app users (N = 582) online to investigate the serial mediation model. Results: Casual sex motivation for dating app use was not directly related to the diagnoses of STIs. Number of sexual partners and frequency of risky sexual behavior serially mediated the relationship between casual sex motivation and STI diagnoses. Conclusions: Using dating apps for casual sex motivation is not necessarily associated with higher incidences of STIs, provided that users do not engage in risky sexual practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrochemical synthesis of ammonia is a sustainable green ammonia synthesis technology. The core reaction involved in this process‐the nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) is a slow kinetic reaction, which requires efficient catalysts to improve the ammonia yield rate. A series of UiO‐66‐NH2/CNT‐X (X=0.05, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20 g) electrocatalysts with different carbon nanotube (CNT) content were synthesized by hydrothermal method. UiO‐66‐NH2/CNT‐0.15 with appropriate CNT content has the highest NH3 yield of 1.85×10−10 mol cm−2 s−1 (22.644 μg h−1 mgcat−1) at −0.3 V (vs. RHE), and the Faradaic efficiency (FE) is 37.78 %. The main reason is that the conductivity of CNT improves the charge transfer efficiency and ensures the effective electron conduction path of the catalyst. Besides, CNT in UiO‐66‐NH2/CNT‐X composite material inhibits the aggregation of UiO‐66‐NH2 particles, exposes more active sites and reduces the particle size of UiO‐66‐NH2. So, the synergistic effect between UiO‐66‐NH2 particles and CNT improves the ammonia yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The size and distribution of ceramic particles in aluminum matrix composites have been reported to remarkably influence their properties. For a single ceramic particle, the particle size is too small and prone to agglomeration, which makes the mechanical properties of the composites worse. When the ceramic particle size is too large, the particles and alloy at the interface are not firmly bonded, and the effect of dispersion distribution is not achieved, which will also reduce the mechanical properties of the composites. The multi-size ceramic particles are expected to improve this situation, while their effect on hot workability is less studied. In this study, the hot deformation behavior, constitutive model, processing map and SEM microstructure were investigated to evaluate the hot workability of multi-size SiC particle-reinforced 6013 aluminum matrix composites. The results showed that the increased deformation temperature and decreased strain rate could decrease flow stresses. The flow stress behaviors of the composites can be described by the sine-hyperbolic Arrhenius equation with the deformation activation energy of Q = 205.863 kJ/mol. The constitutive equation of the composites is ε   ˙ = 3.11592 × 10 13 sinh 0.024909 σ 4.12413 exp − 205863 R T . Then, the hot processing map of the SiCp/6013 composites was constructed and verified by SEM observations. The rheological instability zone was in the region of a high strain rate. The optimal processing zone for composites was 450~500 °C and 0.03~0.25 s−1. In addition, the strain level was found to increase both the Q value and the area of the instability zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Despite numerous studies on quinidine therapies for epilepsies associated with KCNT1 gene mutations, there is no consensus on its clinical utility. Thus, we reviewed studies evaluating the efficacy and safety of quinidine in KCNT1‐related epileptic disorders. Methods: Electronic databases were queried for in vivo and in vitro studies on quinidine therapy in KCNT1‐related epilepsies published on or before 1 May 2022. The evaluation of evidence was done as per the American Academy of Neurology's classification scheme. Identification of significant factors that possibly influenced therapeutic effects of quinidine were performed using χ2 tests. Results: Twenty‐seven studies containing 82 patient records were reviewed. Records of 80 patients with 33 KCNT1 mutations were analysed, of which 20 patients had gained ≥50% seizure reduction due to quinidine therapy. However, quinidine therapy often had different effects on patients with the same KCNT1 mutation. Age, genotypes of KCNT1 mutations, seizure types and brain MRI did not significantly influence the therapeutic effect of quinidine. Prolonged QTc was the most common among all adverse events with quinidine. Notably, results of in vitro quinidine tests did not correspond with in vivo tests. Conclusions: Therapeutic effects of quinidine on KCNT1‐related epilepsies remained indefinite as contradictory results were detected in similar patients. Age, seizure types, genotypes of KCNT1 mutations and brain MRI did not influence the therapeutic effects of quinidine. Insensitivity to quinidine by a certain Kcnt1 genotype in molecular tests is predictive of its inefficacy in human populations of the respective mutation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermal modification or heat treatment can cause the loss of mechanical property of wood. In this study, Poplar (Populus tomentosa Carr.) and spruce (Picea obies Mast.) were heat treated at 180, 200, and 220 °C for 2–10 h. Changes of color (L*, a* and b*) and mechanical strength including modulus of elasticity (MOE), modulus of rupture (MOR) and shear strength after heat treatment were analyzed. Time-temperature superposition methods were used to quantify color and mechanical strength. The prediction models of MOR, MOE and shear strength were assessed with support vector regression model (SVR) based on color parameters. The trends of color change and mechanical strength after heat treatment were highly consistent. The values of apparent activation energy (Ea) calculated from color parameters (110.6–187.2 kJ/mol) were identical to those from mechanical strengths (103.2–219.2 kJ/mol). Color parameters were used as input variables, and the MOE, MOR, and shear strength were output parameters in the established SVR model. Gaussian radial basis function (RBF) was found to be a kernel function for SRV model. Optimal hyperparameters in SVR model were obtained using cross-validation and grid search. The determination coefficients for MOE, MOR, and shear strength were 0.903, 0.835, and 0.865, respectively for poplar. The high correlation suggested that wood mechanical strength can be predicted non-destructively through measuring color parameters after heat treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molecular farming utilizes plants as a platform for producing recombinant biopharmaceuticals. Duckweed, the smallest and fastest growing aquatic plant, is a promising candidate for molecular farming. However, the efficiency of current transformation methods is generally not high in duckweed. Here, we developed a fast and efficient transformation procedure in Lemna minor ZH0403, requiring 7–8 weeks from screening calluses to transgenic plants with a stable transformation efficiency of 88% at the DNA level and 86% at the protein level. We then used this transformation system to produce chicken interleukin-17B (chIL-17B). The plant-produced chIL-17B activated the NF-κB pathway, JAK-STAT pathway, and their downstream cytokines in DF-1 cells. Furthermore, we administrated chIL-17B transgenic duckweed orally as an immunoadjuvant with mucosal vaccine against infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) in chickens. Both IBV-specific antibody titer and the concentration of secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) were significantly higher in the group fed with chIL-17B transgenic plant. This indicates that the duckweed-produced chIL-17B enhanced the humoral and mucosal immune responses. Moreover, chickens fed with chIL-17B transgenic plant demonstrated the lowest viral loads in different tissues among all groups. Our work suggests that cytokines are a promising adjuvant for mucosal vaccination through the oral route. Our work also demonstrates the potential of duckweed in molecular farming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]