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Two-dimensional intrinsic magnetic materials with high Curie temperature are promising candidates for next-generation spintronic devices. In this work, we design two kinds of two-dimensional transition metal nitrides, VN2 and FeN2, both with a hexagonal honeycomb lattice. Based on the formation energy, and phonon spectra calculations as well as the molecular dynamics simulations, their structural stability is demonstrated. Then, we determine the ferromagnetic ground states of VN2 and FeN2 monolayers through the energy calculations, and the Curie temperatures of 222 K and 238 K are estimated by solving the Heisenberg model using the Monte Carlo simulation method. Hence, the VN2 and FeN2 monolayers are demonstrated to be new two-dimensional ferromagnetic materials with high temperature ferromagnetism or large-gap half-metallicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molybdate intercalation significantly reduces the thickness of cobalt–nickel layered hydroxide, greatly increases its specific surface area, regulates its pore distribution, increases the crystal plane spacing, promotes the diffusion rate of hydroxide in it, and increases its specific capacity. Meanwhile, the bilayered MCN-LDH@CP electrode significantly improved the areal energy density and peak power density and cycle stability of the CoNi//Zn battery. The quasi-solid-state MCN-LDH@CP//Zn battery can still charge a mobile phone even when hammered and pierced, showing excellent safety and reliability. [Display omitted] Seeking cathode materials with high areal capacity and excellent cycling tolerance is a key step to develop aqueous rechargeable zinc-based alkaline batteries with high energy density, power density and excellent stability. Here, the bilayered cathode composite (MCN-LDH@CP) of molybdate intercalated cobalt–nickel layered hydroxide nanosheets (MCN-LDH) grown on cobalt phosphate octahydrate microsheet (CP) was prepared by a two-step hydrothermal process. Molybdate intercalation significantly reduces the thickness of cobalt–nickel layered hydroxide, greatly increases its specific surface area, regulates its pore distribution, increases the crystal plane spacing, promotes the diffusion rate of hydroxide in it, and increases its specific capacity. Meanwhile, the bilayered MCN-LDH@CP electrode significantly improved the areal energy density (2.89 mWh/cm2) and peak power density (111.22 mW/cm2) and cycle stability (97.8 % after 7000 cycles) of the CoNi//Zn battery. The excellent stability is mainly due to the fact that the MCN-LDH overlay inhibits the loss of P element of CP and improves the structural stability of the sample. The quasi-solid-state MCN-LDH@CP//Zn battery can still charge a mobile phone even when hammered and pierced, showing excellent safety and reliability. This work opens a new avenue to develop CoNi//Zn batteries with high energy density, power density and excellent tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice (Oryza sativa) production consumes a huge amount of fresh water, and improvement of drought tolerance in rice is important to conserve water resources and minimize yield loss under drought. However, processes to improve drought tolerance in rice have not been fully explored, and a comparative study between rice and wheat (Triticum aestivum) is an effective method to understand the mechanisms determining drought tolerance capacity. In the present study, we applied short-term drought stress to Shanyou 63 rice and Yannong 19 wheat to create a range of water potentials and investigated the responses of gas exchange, plant hydraulic conductance, and root morphological and anatomical traits to soil drought. We found that photosynthesis in rice was more sensitive to drought stress than that in wheat, which was related to differences in the decline of stomatal conductance and plant hydraulic conductance (Kplant). The decline of Kplant under drought was mainly driven by the decrease of soil–root interface hydraulic conductance (Ki) because Ki was more sensitive to drought than root and shoot hydraulic conductance and the soil–root interface contributed to >40% of whole-plant hydraulic resistance in both crops. Root shrinkage in response to drought was more severe in rice than that in wheat, which explains the larger depression of Ki and Kplant under drought stress in rice. We concluded that the decline of Ki drives the depression of Kplant and photosynthesis in both crops, and the plasticity of root morphology and anatomy is important in determining drought tolerance capacity. Root shrinkage under drought is more severe in rice than in wheat, which explains the larger depression of plant hydraulic conductance and photosynthesis under drought in rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease leading to various vascular diseases. Vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) senescence promotes atherosclerotic inflammation and the formation of plaque necrosis core, in part through telomere damage mediated by a high-fat diet. Our previous research found that paeonol, a potential anti-inflammatory agent extracted from Cortex Moutan, could significantly improve VSMCs dysfunction. However, the impact of paeonol on the senescence of VSMCs remains unexplored. This study presents the protective effects of paeonol on VSMCs senescence, and its potential activity in inhibiting the progression of atherosclerosis in vivo and in vitro. Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) is a nuclear deacetylase involved in cell proliferation, senescence, telomere damage, and inflammation. Here, SIRT1 was identified as a potential target of paeonol having anti-senescence and anti-atherosclerosis activity. Mechanistic studies revealed that paeonol binds directly to SIRT1 and then activates the SIRT1/P53/TRF2 pathway to inhibit VSMCs senescence. Our results suggested that SIRT1-mediated VSMCs senescence is a promising druggable target for atherosclerosis, and that pharmacological modulation of the SIRT1/P53/TRF2 signaling pathway by paeonol is of potential benefit for patients with atherosclerosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key message: Seventeen PHS-QTLs and candidate genes were obtained, including eleven major loci, three under multiple environments and two with co-localization by the other mapping methods; The functions of three candidate genes were validated using mutants; nine target proteins and five networks were filtered by joint analysis of GWAS and WGCNA. Seed dormancy (SD) and pre-harvest sprouting (PHS) affect yield, as well as grain and hybrid quality in seed production. Therefore, identification of genetic and regulatory pathways underlying PHS and SD is key to gene function analysis, allelic variation mining and genetic improvement. In this study, 78,360 SNPs by SLAF-seq of 230 maize chromosome segment introgression lines (ILs), PHS under five environments were used to conduct GWAS (genome wide association study) (a threshold of 1/n), and seventeen unreported PHS QTLs were obtained, including eleven QTLs with PVE > 10% and three QTLs under multiple environments. Two QTL loci were co-located between the other two genetic mapping methods. Using differential gene expression analyses at two stages of grain development, gene functional analysis of Arabidopsis mutants, and gene functional analysis in the QTL region, seventeen PHS QTL-linked candidate genes were identified, and their five molecular regulatory networks constructed. Based on the Arabidopsis T-DNA mutations, three candidate genes were shown to regulate for SD and PHS. Meanwhile, using RNA-seq of grain development, the weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) was performed, deducing five regulatory pathways and target genes that regulate PHS and SD. Based on the conjoint analysis of GWAS and WGCNA, four pathways, nine target proteins and target genes were revealed, most of which regulate cell wall metabolism, cell proliferation and seed dehydration tolerance. This has important theoretical and practical significance for elucidating the genetic basis of maize PHS and SD, as well as mining of genetic resources and genetic improvement of traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of subcutaneous (SC) rituximab in the efficacy and safety to non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is not clear enough. The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis, to assess the efficacy and safety of subcutaneous rituximab to NHL. A full-scale search was carried out based on the set search terms in PubMed, Web of Science, Embase and Cochrane CENTRAL until 12 October 2022 to identify relevant studies of subcutaneous rituximab for NHL. The efficacy and safety outcomes included complete response (CR) plus unconfirmed complete response (CRu), adverse events (AEs), grade ≥3 AEs, serious adverse events (SAEs), administration-related reactions (ARRs), adverse reaction rates. From a total of 758 studies, 9 trials were eligible. The CR/CRu of patients with NHL receiving SC rituximab was 57%, 55% for Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and 54% for Follicular lymphoma (FL). The meta-analysis performed on safety demonstrated that AEs of NHL patients with SC rituximab was 85%, grade ≥3 AEs was 38%, SAE was 27% and ARR was 33%. The result also showed that SC rituximab had a high risk of neutropenia and nausea. For NHL patients, there is no significant difference in the efficacy between subcutaneous rituximab and conventional therapy, while subcutaneous injection can shorten exposure time in the hospital and reduce the risk of infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A letter published in the Annals of Hematology discusses the correlation between anemia and depression. The authors conducted a study analyzing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 2005 and 2018. They found that there was no causal relationship between anemia and depression overall. However, when analyzing gender subgroups, they found a strong positive correlation between hemoglobin and depression in males, but not in females. Other studies have also suggested a correlation between hemoglobin and depression. The authors emphasize the importance of considering the psychological status of anemic patients in clinical practice. [Extracted from the article]

A typhoon or hurricane is one of the most destructive high-impact weather events. In this study, the genesis and development processes of Typhoon Nangka (2015), which occurred over the Western Pacific in 2015, were investigated based on the comprehensive observation data from three satellites, i.e., the Himawari-8 satellite, the CloudSat satellite and the Global Precipitation Measurement mission satellite (GPM), focusing on the characteristics of typhoon structure, precipitation and cloud. The results (Results) show that during the developing stage of Typhoon Nangka, the cloud system was relatively complex and changed significantly, with large raindrops dominating the precipitation around the eyewall in the first quadrant, and the convection in the eyewall and outer rainband burst upward to 17 km. In addition, three features were obvious: stratiform precipitation was dominant in the inner rainband, both the precipitation type (stratiform or convective) and intensity were distributed unevenly in the outer rainband, and large water content was located in the warm layer of clouds. Moreover, the collision growth and breakup of water droplets tended to be stable. The precipitation in the typhoon eyewall, inner rainband and outer rainband was significantly different; stratiform precipitation mainly occurred in the inner rainband, while convective precipitation mainly appeared in the eyewall and outer rainband. The cloud system was distributed asymmetrically, and the upper-layer and lower-layer clouds were closely related, dominated by single-layer clouds. There were deep convective clouds in the eyewall, and cirrus clouds with the broadest range across the eyewall. The coverage range of cirrus clouds was close to the radius of the typhoon. There were stratocumulus, altostratus and cumulus in the low levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine isotope stage (MIS) 16 (676-621 ka) and MIS 12 (478-424 ka) stand out as two significant glacial periods during the late Quaternary, demonstrating consistent continental ice volume or sea level, as discerned from benthic δ18O records. Intriguingly, the average sea surface temperature (SST) during MIS 16 surpasses that of MIS 12 by approximately 0.54–0.79 °C, while the atmospheric CO 2 concentration during MIS 16 is approximately 16 ppmv lower than that of MIS 12. The underlying mechanism driving these discrepancies remains enigmatic. In this study, we present new high-resolution X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and grain size records covering the interval from 700 to 400 ka from Ocean Drilling Program (ODP) Site 1090 in the South Atlantic Ocean. We also integrated benthic δ13C, ice-rafted debris (IRD) and carbonate ion concentration ([CO 3 2−]) records globally, to elucidate the distinct climate evolution during the MIS 16 versus MIS 12. Our findings suggest that MIS 12 is distinguished by a more substantial Antarctic ice-sheet, coupled with a weakened and/or equatorward displacement of southern westerly winds, and expansion of southern source water (SSW) alongside contractive northern source water (NSW). Conversely, the opposite climate state can be observed in MIS 16. The elevated atmospheric CO 2 in MIS 12 and diminished atmospheric CO 2 in MIS 16 may be attributed to reconfigurations in the ocean carbon reservoir regulated by the reorganization of deep-water masses and meridional ocean circulation, as a result of the divergent evolution of bipolar ice-sheets. Our study underscores the critical role of the interplay between the two polar regions in modulating deep-sea carbon storage on the orbital timescale and atmospheric CO 2. This interplay is essential for a comprehensive understanding of past and future carbon cycle adjustments in response to climate change. • We present a comparative analysis of MIS 16 and MIS 12 climates. • SST in MIS 16 surpasses that of MIS 12, yet CO 2 levels in MIS 16 are lower. • Grain size and XRF data from ODP Site 1090 (700-400 ka) are provided. • The reduced CO 2 in MIS 16, compared to MIS 12, is ascribed to bipolar carbon cycle control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the appropriate dosage of levothyroxine treatment for congenital hypothyroidism patients with different thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. Methods: A total of 116 patients, who were regularly followed-up in our endocrine clinic from January 2010 to December 2020, were divided into four groups based on their thyroid function (group A: TSH ≥ 100 mIU/L, group B: TSH ≥ 20, and < 100, group C: TSH > 4.6 mIU/L and < 20 mIU/L with free thyroxine (FT4) < 6.6 pmol/L, and group D: TSH > 4.6 mIU/L and < 20 mIU/L with FT4 > 6.6 pmol/L). The initial dosage of levothyroxine was individualized for each patient based on their TSH level and then adjusted according to their thyroid function at every follow-up time point. The levothyroxine dosage at each time point was compared between the groups, and thyroid function and physical and neurological development after treatment were also compared. Results: After individualized dosage adjustment, all patients achieved normal thyroid function. Although there were statistical differences in neurological development between the four groups (p < 0.05), development was within the normal range for all groups. Conclusion: An individualized levothyroxine dosage can provide the same therapeutic effect compared to the recommended dosage. This strategy may also reduce the risk of a drug overdose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of cyanobacterial blooms on aquatic ecosystems has received wide attention, yet little is known about their impacts on zooplankton genetic structure.For 26 months (April 2012–May 2014), we monitored zooplankton in a warm‐temperate ice‐free lake in Eastern China, with an emphasis on seasonal population dynamics of the cladoceran, Daphnia galeata. There was a seasonal succession in the zooplanktonic community (composed of Cladocera, Copepoda, and Rotifera).Genetic analysis (based on 14 microsatellite loci) of the 21 monthly samples in which D. galeata was present demonstrated that several clones could successfully overwinter and/or persist for many months. However, all clones, including these long‐lived clones, were completely replaced by new ones after October 2013, probably due to cyanobacteria blooms in that summer. A high clonal richness coupled with high turnover rate was observed in the D. galeata population overall, suggesting frequent sexual reproduction.Daphnia galeata experimentally fed with a diet of Microcystis aeruginosa (the most abundant toxic cyanobacterial species in the lake) had a substantially reduced survivorship, consistent with the field observations.Our findings highlight the changes of zooplanktonic population dynamics in terms of both community and clonal structure in a warm‐temperate ice‐free lake, and call for further investigation on ecological responses of zooplankton to cyanobacterial blooms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electro-Fenton (EF) is considered to be an effective technology for the purification of organic wastewater containing antibiotics, but the construction of accessible and efficient heterogeneous EF catalytic materials still faces challenges. In this study, an iron foam-derived electrode (FeO x /if-400) was prepared by a simple method (chemical oxidation combined heat treatment). The fabricated electrode presented great EF degradation efficiency under wide pH range (almost completely removing 50 mg L−1 TNZ within 60 min) and maintained great stability after consecutive operation (>95% removal after six cycles). Also, the FeO x /if-400 electrode showed good purification ability for pharmaceutical wastewater as evaluated by the quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry and the three-dimensional excitation-emission matrix fluorescence spectroscopy. Based on experimental results, characterization analysis, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations, the EF reaction mechanism of FeOx/if-400 electrode and the organics degradation pathways in simulated and real matrices were proposed. Significantly, the biotoxicity assessment of the degradation intermediate products was revealed by ECOSAR software and relative inhibition of E. coli , which fully proved the environmental friendliness of the EF process by the FeO x /if-400 cathode. This work provides a green and effective EF system, showing a promising application potential in the field of organic wastewater treatment containing antibiotic contaminants. [Display omitted] • Fabrication of novel iron foam electrode with in situ generated iron oxide nanosheet. • Electrode had great EF activity for TNZ and pharmaceutical wastewater purification. • Decomposition process of TNZ and organics in real wastewater were revealed. • The free radical and non-free radical pathways all contribute to the EF process. • Biotoxicity was predicted to evaluate the environmental friendliness of EF system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The hair follicle is a skin accessory organ that regulates hair development, and its activity varies on a regular basis. However, the significance of metabolites in the hair follicle cycle has long been unknown. Results: Targeted metabolomics was used in this investigation to reveal the expression patterns of 1903 metabolites in cashmere goat skin during anagen to telogen. A statistical analysis was used to investigate the potential associations between metabolites and the hair follicle cycle. The findings revealed clear changes in the expression patterns of metabolites at various phases and in various feeding models. The majority of metabolites (primarily amino acids, nucleotides, their metabolites, and lipids) showed downregulated expression from anagen (An) to telogen (Tn), which was associated with gene expression, protein synthesis and transport, and cell structure, which reflected, to some extent, that the cells associated with hair follicle development are active in An and apoptotic in An–Tn. It is worth mentioning that the expression of vitamin D3 and 3,3',5-triiodo-L-thyronine decreased and then increased, which may be related to the shorter and longer duration of outdoor light, which may stimulate the hair follicle to transition from An to catagen (Cn). In the comparison of different hair follicle development stages (An, Cn, and Tn) or feeding modes (grazing and barn feeding), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis revealed that common differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) (2'-deoxyadenosine, L-valine, 2'-deoxyuridine, riboflavin, cytidine, deoxyguanosine, L-tryptophan, and guanosine-5'-monophosphate) were enriched in ABC transporters. This finding suggested that this pathway may be involved in the hair follicle cycle. Among these DEMs, riboflavin is absorbed from food, and the expression of riboflavin and sugars (D-glucose and glycogen) in skin tissue under grazing was greater and lower than that during barn feeding, respectively, suggesting that eating patterns may also alter the hair follicle cycle. Conclusions: The expression patterns of metabolites such as sugars, lipids, amino acids, and nucleotides in skin tissue affect hair follicle growth, in which 2'-deoxyadenosine, L-valine, 2'-deoxyuridine, riboflavin, cytidine, deoxyguanosine, L-tryptophan, and guanosine-5'-monophosphate may regulate the hair follicle cycle by participating in ABC transporters. Feeding practices may regulate hair follicle cycles by influencing the amount of hormones and vitamins expressed in the skin of cashmere goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electro-Fenton reaction by the self-supported single-atom Fe electrode (CFP@Fe SAs-PANIc). [Display omitted] • The self-supported single-atom Fe electrode was fabricated by a simple strategy. • Electrode showed excellent EF activity for aromatic compounds and real wastewater. • FeN 2 O 2 may be active site for EF by enhanced 2e− ORR and adsorption effect. • Reaction mechanism and organics degradation pathways were proposed in detail. Electro-Fenton technology is widely applied in the field of water treatment for refractory organic pollutant degradation. Herein, a novel self-supported single-atom Fe electrode was fabricated via simple electrodeposition and pyrolysis approach for the first time. The prepared single-atom electrode showed excellent activity and stability for degradation of aromatic compounds in electro-Fenton (EF) process, in which the 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (4-HBA) pollutant is completely decomposed by the substitution, decarboxylation, hydroxylation, and oxidation reactions. Significantly, the electrode possessed great performance for purification of the shale gas fracturing flowback fluid. The degradation pathways of organics in real matrix were also studied in detail. The characterization analysis proved that the single-atom Fe was in situ grown on electrode surface, confirming to be Fe-N/O construction with coordination number of ∼4.3. Therefore, the EF mechanism was preliminary proposed by analyzing all possible configurations of single-atom Fe (FeN 4 , FeN 3 O 1 , FeN 2 O 2 , and FeN 1 O 3). Results implied that the FeN 2 O 2 structure may contribute to improving EF performance by enhancing the O 2 adsorption and promoting the breakage of * OOH to form H 2 O 2. Additionally, the good adsorption of FeN 2 O 2 toward organic pollutant was also greatly conducive to the EF degradation. This study provides a feasible strategy for self-supported single-atom Fe electrode and demonstrated its application for efficient EF treatment of real wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electro-Fenton reaction mechanism by the porous fiber electrodes of NZVIF-800 for degradation and sterilization. [Display omitted] • Nano-zero-valent iron based electrostatic spinning fiber electrode was fabricated. • Electrode showed great electro-Fenton activity for secnidazole and real wastewater. • Decomposition process of secnidazole and organics in real wastewater was revealed. • Electrode exhibited strong sterilization ability for the actual wastewater matrix. In this study, a novel metal–organic framework (MOF) derived fiber electrode (NZVIF-800) was successfully fabricated by a novel electrostatic spinning and pyrolysis procedure. The NZVIF-800 electrode exhibited great catalytic activity in a heterogeneous electro-Fenton (EF) system for organic degradation, in which the secnidazole (SCZ) was completely degraded within 60 min with excellent stability (no significant change after eight cycles). Importantly, the NZVIF-800 electrode was also highly effective for decontaminating actual pharmaceutical wastewater, in which the TOC and COD removal reached 38% and 47%, respectively, after 4 h EF reaction. Based on experimental analysis, microstructure characterization, and theoretical calculations, the detailed reaction mechanism of the NZVIF-800 electrode was revealed. The impressive EF performance was mainly attributed to the in situ generation of active nano-zero-valent iron (NZVI) derived from the MOF pyrolysis and the confinement effect of the encased carbon layer that could effectively inhibit the loss and inactivation of Fe active sites. The degradation pathways of organic pollutants in simulated and real wastewater were proposed in detail. Significantly, the EF system with NZVIF-800 electrode exhibited strong sterilization ability for the wastewater matrix as evidenced by the colony condition, OD 600 values, and Illumina MiSeq sequencing platform analysis (up to 95% sterilization efficiency within 4 h), expanding its application scope for actual wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To summarize the characteristics of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation in anti-nuclear matrix protein 2 (NXP2) antibody-associated juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM). Methods: Five patients with GI perforation from a JDM cohort of 120 cases are described. Relevant literature was reviewed. Results: Five patients, including four females and one male, were included in the study. The age of onset of these patients ranged from 3.3 to 9.5 years with the median age of 5.0 years. When these patients were complicated by GI perforation, childhood myositis assessment score (CMAS) ranged from 1 to 5 with the median score of 2. Myositis-specific antibody (MSA) spectrum analysis indicated that the five patients were anti-NXP2 antibody positive. The initial symptoms of GI perforation were progressive abdominal pain and intermittent fever. Two patients also presented with ureteral calculus with hydronephrosis and ureteral stricture. Surgery was performed in four patients. One patient failed to undergo a repair as the perforation was high in position. For the other three patients, perforation repair was successful, of which two patients failed due to recurrent perforation. At 24 months postoperative follow-up, one patient was in complete remission on prednisone (Pred) and methotrexate (MTX) treatment, and her ureteral stricture had disappeared. The other four patients died. Adding these cases with 16 other patients described in the literature, the symptom at onset was progressive abdominal pain, which often occurred within 10 months after JDM was diagnosed. Perforation most commonly occurred in the duodenum, although it also occurred at multiple sites or was recurrent. The mortality rate of GI perforation in JDM was 38% (8/21). Conclusions: All the five perforation cases in our study subjected to MSA analysis were anti-NXP2 antibody positive. The symptom at onset was abdominal pain. The most common site of perforation was the duodenum in the retroperitoneum, and the lack of acute abdominal manifestations prevented early diagnosis. GI perforation may be a fatal complication in JDM, and early diagnosis is very important. More research is needed to determine the pathogenesis and predictive factors of GI perforation in JDM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Very few studies have focused on the biogeography and genetic diversity of aquatic invertebrate zooplankton from the Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau, an important biogeographic hotspot. The geological uplift of this region created special environments requiring adaptive genetic diversification of the resident lineages. Here, we developed and used the first set of high‐resolution microsatellite markers for the Daphnia similis species complex. We screened this species in 23 (out of 303) lakes across China, covering a large geographical and ecological range of habitats. High population clonal diversity of the D. similis species complex was found, regardless of their geographical origin. However, four Tibetan Daphnia sinensis populations showed substantially lower clonal diversity. Interestingly, D. sinensis populations from two regions, Eastern China and the Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau of Western China, were found to be clearly differentiated from each other. Lakes inhabited by Western D. sinensis were of a lower trophic level, higher altitude, and more likely to freeze in the winter. This study contributes to an understanding of adaptation to their special environments by the freshwater invertebrates in the Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • We explored lineage diversity and regional distribution of Moina in China. • Four Moina species complexes with eleven mtDNA lineages occurred across China. • Discordance between mtDNA and nuclear ITS-1 phylogenies of Moina was detected. • An mtDNA phylogeny showed apparent paraphyly in two Moina taxa. Abstract The distribution and genetic diversity of freshwater zooplankton is understudied in the Eastern Palearctic. Here, we explored the lineage diversity and regional distribution of the genus Moina in China. Members of this genus are often keystone components of freshwater ecosystems and have been frequently subjected to toxicological and physiological studies. Four species of Moina were identified, based on morphology, in 50 of 113 Chinese water bodies examined, and their phylogenetic position was analyzed using both a mitochondrial (mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I; COI) and a nuclear marker (the nuclear internal transcribed spacer; ITS-1). Both molecular markers identified four clades corresponding broadly to the morphological species. Mitochondrial DNA analysis showed the presence of four species complexes with eleven lineages across China, five of which were new. However, some lineages (and even individual haplotypes) were widespread in Eurasia, suggesting an ability to disperse over long distances. In contrast, a few lineages exhibited restricted distributions. The nuclear phylogeny also recognized four species of Moina within China and seven very distinct clades. Interestingly, one specimen possessing Moina cf. micrura mtDNA had ITS-1 alleles of the M. cf. brachiata clade. This discordance between mtDNA and nuclear ITS-1 phylogenies is indicative of interspecific introgression and hybridization. Additionally, our COI phylogeny showed apparent paraphyly in two Moina species groups, suggesting introgression of their mitochondrial genomes. Our data shows the regional distribution/diversity of the Moina species complex in a Eurasian context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The idea that hybridization promotes range expansion has received recent attention, but support from field studies is limited. We hypothesized that in the cladoceran waterflea genus Daphnia, parental species are geographically and ecologically separated, whereas hybrids occupy intermediate or occasionally extreme environments, potentially facilitating range expansion of parental species. We assessed the distribution of Daphnia dentifera, Daphnia galeata and their interspecific hybrids across 44 lakes in China (using mitochondrial and microsatellite markers), and related it to geographical and environmental lake descriptors. Parental species were geographically separated: D. dentifera occurred in western and central China, and D. galeata in eastern and central China, whereas hybrids were found in the western and central parts of the country. However, after controlling for geographical differences, the effect of environment on species distribution was strong and significant. Specifically, D. dentifera was present in high‐altitude oligotrophic lakes, D. galeata in low‐altitude eutrophic lakes and hybrids at intermediate to high altitudes, mainly in mesotrophic lakes. Microsatellite data indicated that hybrids were locally produced rather than having migrated from elsewhere; they probably resulted from encounters between expanding D. galeata and resident D. dentifera. The present study provides evidence that hybrids can survive in habitats that are otherwise suitable for only one of their parental species, emphasizing the importance of hybridization in expansion of species gene pools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Two distinct species complexes (D. pulex and D. mitsukuri) were documented. • Strikingly different patterns of clonal diversity were observed among populations. • Obligate parthenogenesis was confirmed by genotyping dormant ephippial eggs. • Obligate parthenogens probably originated through interspecific hybridization. Abstract Recent studies of the distribution and diversity of freshwater zooplankton have indicated that the previously understudied Eastern Palearctic region is an important biogeographic hotspot. Here, we explored the lineage diversity and reproductive modes of the Daphnia pulex species group across China. Members of this group are often keystone species of standing water bodies and are frequently used as a model system for ecological, evolutionary and, more recently, genomic studies. We found members of the D. pulex group in seven of seventy-six Chinese water bodies examined. We analyzed their phylogenetic position using mitochondrial markers, and explored the genetic structure of six populations using microsatellite markers. Mitochondrial DNA analysis suggested the presence of two distinct species complexes in China: the D. pulex complex that has a global distribution, and an apparently endemic Eastern Palearctic D. mitsukuri complex. Microsatellite analyses of six populations suggested that three of these reproduced by cyclical parthenogenesis, as evidenced by high clonal diversity and the absence of deviations from the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. In contrast, three other populations showed remarkably low diversity of multilocus genotypes. This suggests an obligate parthenogenetic reproductive mode, which was confirmed in one of the populations by comparison of genotypes of Daphnia adults and dormant embryos. All presumably obligate parthenogenetic clones were heterozygous at the majority of microsatellite loci, suggesting their hybrid origin. This was further supported by analyses of a small GTPase nuclear gene (rab4), as two alleles within single individuals belonged to different clades. Interestingly, one putatively obligate parthenogenetic clone carried three distinct alleles suggesting higher ploidy and potential gene flow between the D. pulicaria and D. mitsukuri complexes. Our data show that the expansion of the D. pulex complex in the Eastern Palearctic was associated with widespread hybridization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to explore the potential risk factors of platinum allergy and follow-up treatment to provide a reference for the clinical prevention and treatment of platinum allergic reactions in patients with gynecological tumors.Methods: The study retrospectively analyzed 45 cases of platinum allergic reactions that occurred in Shengjing Hospital affiliated to China Medical University from August 2010 to July 2016. Analysis of risk factors included the cumulative dose, treatment course and time intervals.Results: The cumulative carboplatin dose in allergic patients ranged from 900 to 10250 mg (average 4845 mg). The 45 allergic reactions occurred between the 3rd and 25th course of treatment (average 11.4 courses). The average re-treatment interval of carboplatin-allergic patients was 28.1 months, including 93.3% of patients with platinum re-treatment interval of more than 1 year. The allergic reaction occurred in the 2nd or 3rd course of re-treatment in 26 patients, accounting for 70.3% of all patients with recurrence. Seventeen patients were subjected to desensitization therapy, among which 13 cases were well tolerated.Conclusions: Patients who received more than 8 courses of carboplatin or a cumulative dose of more than 3500 mg were the high-risk population for platinum allergy. The 2nd and 3rd treatment course after restarting carboplatin treatment after an interval time of more than 1 year was the high incident period of carboplatin allergy. Skin tests should be conducted in patients with high risk of carboplatin allergy. In cases of carboplatin allergy, patients could receive carboplatin or oxaliplatin desensitization therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present astronomically tuned high resolution (∼3–4 Kyr) 15.8-Myr long benthic foraminiferal δ 18 O and δ 13 C records from IODP Site U1337 in the east equatorial Pacific, which provide a reference standard for stratigraphic correlation of deep sea sediments. A long-term glaciation history over the past 15.8 Myr has been recorded in the δ 18 O. Two of the most significant glaciation events include the East Antarctic Ice Sheet expansion (EAIE) at 13.8 Ma and the final onset of the Northern Hemisphere Glaciation (NHG) in 3.3–2.5 Ma. A series of Miocene and Pliocene glaciation events exist between the EAIE and NHG, which are important glaciation attempts before the Earth finally entered the full “icehouse” world in the late Pleistocene. A long-term ocean carbon isotope decrease over the past 15.8 Myr has been recorded in the δ 13 C. Ocean circulation change was the major cause of the ocean carbon isotope decrease in 9.4–8.1 Ma and 4–0 Ma, whereas strengthened continental chemical weathering controlled the long-term ocean carbon isotope decrease in most of the time of the past 15.8 Myr. The divergence in benthic foraminiferal δ 13 C and ε Nd provides strong evidence of significant ocean circulation change between 12.1 and 9.2 Ma which was probably related to the formation of the Isthmus of Panama. The internal feedbacks such as continental weathering and sea surface temperature change have great potential for modulating the weak 100 and 400 Kyr signals in astronomical forcing into strong 100 and 400 Kyr signals in global ice volume and carbon cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of reused times on the characteristics and properties of Ti6Al4V (TC4) powder and resulting bulk materials were systematically investigated in additive manufacturing by electron beam melting (EBM). Optical microscope, X-ray diffraction and nano-indentation were used to characterize the powders. Optical microscope results indicated that the microstructure evolved from non-equilibrium to equilibrium state of α and β phase with increasing reuse times. The micro-hardness and Young’s modulus of reused powders were enhanced with the increase of reuse times. The tensile properties of bulk final product fabricated from the mixed powders were nearly equal or superior to that prepared by 100% fresh powder. In short, the mixing usage of initial and reused Ti6Al4V powders for additive manufacturing is acceptable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

East Antarctic ice sheet expansion (EAIE) at ∼13.9 Ma in the middle Miocene represents a major climatic event during the long-term Cenozoic cooling, but ocean circulation and carbon cycle changes during this event remain unclear. Here, we present new fish teeth isotope ( ε Nd) and benthic foraminiferal B/Ca records from the South China Sea (SCS), newly integrated meridional Pacific benthic foraminiferal δ 18 O and δ 13 C records and simulated results from a biogeochemical box model to explore the responses of deep Pacific Ocean circulation and carbon cycle across EAIE. The ε Nd and meridional benthic δ 13 C records reveal a more isolated Pacific Deep Water (PDW) and a sluggish Pacific meridional overturning circulation during the post-EAIE with respect to the pre-EAIE owing to weakened southern-sourced deep water formation. The deep-water [CO 2 − 3 ] and calcium carbonate mass accumulation rate in the SCS display markedly similar increases followed by recoveries to the pre-EAIE level during EAIE, which were probably caused by a shelf–basin shift of CaCO 3 deposition and strengthened weathering due to a sea level fall within EAIE. The model results show that the ∼1‰ positive δ 13 C excursion during EAIE could be attributed to increased weathering of high- δ 13 C shelf carbonates and a terrestrial carbon reservoir expansion. The drawdown of atmospheric CO 2 over the middle Miocene were probably caused by combined effects of increased shelf carbonate weathering, expanded land biosphere carbon storage and a sluggish deep Pacific meridional overturning circulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

microRNA-489 (miR-489), a newly identified tumor-related miRNA, functions as an oncogene or tumor suppressor via regulating growth and metastasis of human cancers. But, the clinical significance, biological function and underlying mechanisms of miR-489 in glioma remain rarely known. Here, we showed that the levels of miR-489 in glioma tissues were notably underexpressed compared to corresponding non-tumor tissues. In accordance, the relative levels of miR-489 were decreased in glioma cell lines compared with NHA cells. Kaplan-Meier plots indicated that miR-489 low expressing glioma patients showed a prominent shorter overall survival. In addition, miR-489 overexpression prohibited proliferation and cell cycle progression, and promoted apoptosis in U251 cells. While, miR-489 knockdown showed opposite effects on these cellular processes of U87 cells. In vivo experiments demonstrated that miR-489 restoration reduced the tumor volume and weight of subcutaneous glioma xenografts in nude mice. Notably, Spindlin 1 (SPIN1) was inversely and directly regulated by miR-489 in glioma cells. A negative correlation between the expression of miR-489 and SPIN1 mRNA was confirmed in glioma tissues. Interestingly, miR-489 inversely modulated activation of PI3K/AKT pathway and expression of downstream targets including p -mTOR, Cyclin D1 and BCL-XL. SPIN1 re-expression abolished the effects of miR-489 on U251 cells with enhanced activation of PI3K/AKT pathway and malignant phenotype. Meanwhile, AKT inhibitor MK-2206 blocked activation of PI3K/AKT pathway and resulted in reduced proliferation, cell cycle arrest and increased apoptosis in miR-489 down-regulating U87 cells. Altogether, our data support that miR-489 loss facilitates malignant phenotype of glioma cells probably via SPIN1-mediated PI3K/AKT pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Lignin-LDH composites have been prepared via hydrothermal treatment. • Black liquor lignin are used as carriers and intercalating modifiers. • The growth of LDH crystals was enhanced by the hydrothermal treatment. • LDH was dispersed in the lignin carrier. • Dissolved hydroxyl compounds were inserted into the LDH interlayers. To improve the dispersion and crystallization of layered double hydroxides (LDHs), black liquor lignin was used as both the carrier and the intercalation modifier agent to prepare lignin–MgAl layered double hydroxide (Lignin-LDH) composites by a hydrothermal method. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy showed that the amount of NO 3 − inserted into the LDH interlayers decreased significantly with the increase of the lignin content. X-ray diffraction revealed that the crystallization of LDH in the Lignin-LDH composites was enhanced by the hydrothermal treatment, and the crystal structure of the LDH was more disordered with the increase of the lignin content. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that hydrothermal treatment and the addition of lignin were beneficial for enhancing the thermal stability of the Lignin-LDH composites. The basal spacing of the LDH was unchanged based on Bragg equation calculations. Based on the infrared and thermogravimetric analysis results, it can be inferred that the molecules of dissolved hydroxyl compounds were inserted into the LDH interlayers. Scanning electron microscopy showed that the hydrothermal treatment promoted the growth of LDH crystals, and the increase of the lignin amount resulted in the dispersion of LDH in lignin and a decrease of the LDH thickness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective management of municipal solid waste (MSW) is critical for urban planning and development. This study aims to develop an integrated type 1 and type 2 fuzzy sets chance-constrained programming (ITFCCP) model for tackling regional MSW management problem under a fuzzy environment, where waste generation amounts are supposed to be type 2 fuzzy variables and treated capacities of facilities are assumed to be type 1 fuzzy variables. The evaluation and expression of uncertainty overcome the drawbacks in describing fuzzy possibility distributions as oversimplified forms. The fuzzy constraints are converted to their crisp equivalents through chance-constrained programming under the same or different confidence levels. Regional waste management of the City of Dalian, China, was used as a case study for demonstration. The solutions under various confidence levels reflect the trade-off between system economy and reliability. It is concluded that the ITFCCP model is capable of helping decision makers to generate reasonable waste-allocation alternatives under uncertainties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present astronomically tuned high time resolution (3–4 kyr) benthic foraminiferal δ 18 O and δ 13 C records between 9 Ma and 5 Ma from Ocean Drilling Program (ODP) Site 1143 in the southern South China Sea (SCS). We found that the late Miocene ocean carbon shift (LMOCS) which was linked with the late Miocene/early Pliocene “Biogenic Bloom” also occurred in the northern and southern SCS. A marked deep-water δ 13 C gradient as much as ~ 1.0‰ of the northern and southern SCS was observed between 6.5 Ma and 5.9 Ma, which was probably caused by the significant difference in paleoproductivity between the northern and southern SCS. The deep δ 13 C gradient was likely produced by rapid tectonic subsidence in the northern SCS at ~ 6.0 Ma and the final formation of the Bashi Strait at ~ 6.5 Ma. A reversed benthic δ 13 C gradient of the northern and southern SCS was also observed between 1.2 Ma and 0.35 Ma, which was probably caused by the consecutive closures of the interarc water gates within the Bashi strait at ~ 3.0 Ma and ~ 1.2 Ma. Closures of the interarc water gates within the Bashi strait at ~ 3.0 Ma and ~ 1.2 Ma further semi-enclosed the SCS basin and made the paleoproductivity the major factor influencing the deep water δ 13 C, leading to the reversed deep water δ 13 C gradient of the northern and southern SCS between 1.2 Ma and 0.35 Ma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary vaginal melanoma is rare compared to cutaneous melanoma, and it has a high rate of invasion and metastasis. The prognosis of tumors is poor and the quality of life of patients is low. In addition to traditional surgical and non-surgical treatment, combined treatments are more effective for patients with distant metastatic melanoma. Due to the high immunogenicity of vaginal malignant melanoma, immunotherapy has become an effective treatment strategy for distant metastatic vaginal melanoma, and with the application of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), outstanding achievements have been made in the treatment of the disease. Studies have shown that ICIs combined with radiotherapy (RT) or anti-angiogenic therapy can have a synergistic effect in certain tumor treatments, normalizing blood vessels and enhancing immune responses. However, whether ICIs combined with RT and anti-angiogenic therapy can benefit patients with distant metastatic vaginal melanoma remains unclear. The present study reports the clinical case of a patient with distant metastatic vaginal melanoma treated with combined RT, anti-angiogenic therapy and ICIs. The patient's primary tumor and distant metastases improved after combination therapy. The combination therapy successfully improved the patient's prognosis and prolonged the patient's overall survival. This provides a reference for combining all three treatment modalities in the treatment of distant metastatic vaginal melanoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a previous study, the number of autophagosomes increased after coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) infection. However, the exact mechanism by which CVB3 regulates the number of autophagosomes is unclear. Earlier studies have found that infection with CVB3 activates extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). ERK is essential for CVB3 replication and can increase the number of autophagosomes. In the current study, extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 was activated in HeLa cells after CVB3 infection. The ERK kinase inhibitor, U0126, was then used to inhibit the activity of ERK. Treatment with U0126 led to a significant reduction in the number of autophagosomes indicating that the CVB3-induced autophagosome accumulation may have occurred via the ERK pathway. The relationship between CVB3 infection and ERK pathway activation was also investigated. The results showed that the RasGAP protein could be further cleaved, leading to the activation of the Ras/Raf/MEK (mitogen/extracellular signal-regulated kinase)/ERK pathway and that CVB3 infection could result in an increase in the concentration of calcium in the cytoplasm, resulting in mitochondrial damage, a decrease in the concentration of ATP and activation of the AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase)/MEK/ERK pathway. In summary, CVB3 might directly or indirectly induce autophagy via AMPK/MEK/ERK and Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK signaling pathways in the host cells, representing a pivotal mechanism for CVB3 pathogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two waterworks, with source water derived from the Huangpu or Yangtze River in Shanghai, were investigated, and the effluents were plate-screened for antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) using five antibiotics: ampicillin (AMP), kanamycin (KAN), rifampicin (RFP), chloramphenicol (CM) and streptomycin (STR). The influence of water treatment procedures on the bacterial antibiotic resistance rate and the changes that bacteria underwent when exposed to the five antibiotics at concentration levels ranging from 1 to 100 μg/mL were studied. Multi-drug resistance was also analyzed using drug sensitivity tests. The results indicated that bacteria derived from water treatment plant effluent that used the Huangpu River rather than the Yangtze River as source water exhibited higher antibiotic resistance rates against AMP, STR, RFP and CM but lower antibiotic resistance rates against KAN. When the antibiotic concentration levels ranged from 1 to 10 μg/mL, the antibiotic resistance rates of the bacteria in the water increased as water treatment progressed. Biological activated carbon (BAC) filtration played a key role in increasing the antibiotic resistance rate of bacteria. Chloramine disinfection can enhance antibiotic resistance. Among the isolated ARB, 75% were resistant to multiple antibiotics. Ozone oxidation, BAC filtration and chloramine disinfection can greatly affect the relative abundance of bacteria in the community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently mechanisms for the onset of the widespread aeolian dust accumulation in the Chinese Loess Plateau since 8–7 Ma remain elusive. In this study, we compile 11 records of climate (14–7 Ma) and tectonic activity of the Tibetan Plateau and its adjacent areas (15–6 Ma). The results suggest that strong tectonic activity in the northeastern Tibetan Plateau has produced massive debris and dust, which was deposited in the piedmont basins and reworked by weathering and fluviolacustrine erosion. At the same time, global cooling and uplift of the Tibetan Plateau over the period of 14–7 Ma intensified the East Asian winter monsoon and westerly winds (westerlies) while weakening the Asian summer monsoon, which led to the spread of dry land vegetation and aridification in interior China. Sediments in the piedmont basins were then exposed in the aridity and transported by the westerlies to the Chinese Loess Plateau and the North Pacific. We suggest that tectonic activity in the northeastern Tibetan Plateau and shifting global climate together triggered the widespread aeolian dust accumulation in the Chinese Loess Plateau and the North Pacific since 8–7 Ma. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Cladocerans of the Daphnia longispina complex are often the key components of pelagic food webs in northern temperate lakes and ponds. In the present study, we aimed to fill the gap in knowledge on the biogeography and diversity of this species complex, through analysis (by sequencing two mitochondrial genes) of the taxonomic structure of 18 lake populations across China, covering a large geographical and ecological range. Based on the patterns observed in the Western Palaearctic and Japan, we hypothesized that several species of the D. longispina complex should coexist and that some cryptic lineages are present in China. In the lakes studied, however, we detected haplotypes of only two species (D. galeata and D. dentifera). Daphnia galeata was detected in eutrophic lakes at lower altitudes (in central and eastern China), whereas D. dentifera was found in high-altitude oligotrophic lakes of the Tibetan Plateau in western China. The two lineages coexisted in only one of the lakes studied, in Tibet. The variation in mitochondrial DNA differed between the two species. Daphnia dentifera haplotypes were lake specific, while D. galeata haplotypes were often shared across lakes and geographic regions, indicating a recent rapid expansion of the latter species. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

ABSTRACT In this paper, we report results of the pilot study in which we apply skeletochronological analysis of teeth to a collection of modern Chinese wild boar ( Sus scrofa) of known age and date of death. This is the first time that odontochronology has been applied to suids in China. This work allowed us to establish parameters for subsequent analysis of a limited number of Neolithic-aged Sus (wild boar and possible early domesticated pig) samples from Henan Province. The goal of the research is to contribute to the ongoing reconstruction of Neolithic dietary, health and economic patterns along the Yellow River. Our results are encouraging in that regular seasonal growth patterning is observed in the northern control sample, which is from the same region as our archaeological investigation. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Middle Miocene (~16–11.6 Ma) had atmospheric CO 2 levels comparable to the present day, and thus the mechanisms controlling the interactions of the climate system and the carbon cycle during the Middle Miocene may have significant implications for future climate change. In this study, we examined the phase relationship between benthic foraminiferal δ18O and δ13C records, within the 100-kyr band, during the Late Quaternary and the Middle Miocene. Our results suggest that benthic foraminiferal δ18O and δ13C were highly coherent and in-phase within the 100-kyr band during the Middle Miocene, in contrast to the anti-phased relationship during the Late Quaternary. However, the causes of this contrast remain elusive. We used a biogeochemical box model to explore the mechanisms of the in-phase relationship in the 100-kyr band during the Middle Miocene. The model results show that the in-phase relationship can be attributed to two mechanisms: (1) a shelf-basin carbonate shift regulated by sea-level fluctuations which originated from the growth and decay of the Antarctic ice sheet, within the 100-kyr band; and (2) changes in terrestrial carbon inputs and the biological pump driven by the discharge of riverine nutrients, which was regulated by precipitation variability in low latitudes, within the eccentricity-modulated precessional band. Thus, we propose that both high- and low-latitude processes played critical roles in the Middle Miocene carbon cycle, within the 100-kyr band. We further show that chemical weathering played a potential role in regulating the atmospheric p CO 2 on the orbital time scale during the Middle Miocene. • Phase relationships between benthic δ18O and δ13C records in the 100-kyr band are reinvestigated. • Terrestrial inputs explain the in-phase relationship of benthic δ18O and δ13C in the 100-kyr band over the Middle Miocene. • Both changes of Antarctic ice sheet and low-latitude precipitation played critical roles in the Middle Miocene carbon cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We recently demonstrated that co-administration of mouse zona pellucida 3 (mZP3) DNA and protein vaccine enhanced the contraception of mice by increasing humoral immune responses. In this study, we try to use granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) to further improve the humoral immune responses induced by mZP3 DNA and protein co-administration. BALB/c mice were intranasally pre-injected with GM-CSF 4 days before co-administration. Compared to DNA and protein coadministration without GM-CSF, the combination of GM-CSF and coadministration significantly enhances humoral immune responses, especially the level of secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) in vaginal washes. The enhanced antibody responses are correlated with the upregulated level of interleukin 4 (IL-4) and enhanced maturation of dendritic cells (DCs). Thus, GM-CSF is a potential candidate adjuvant to be used for the development of a safe and effective contraceptive vaccine. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Problem Various approaches have been developed to improve the antibody response of zona pellucida glycoprotein-3 ( ZP3) vaccination. In this study, we investigated whether GM-CSF and IL-5 can be used as cytokine adjuvants to increase the humoral immune response generated by mouse ZP3 ( mZP3) DNA vaccine. Method of study Mice in experimental group were injected by GM-CSF 4 days before the co-immunization of IL-5 and mZP3 DNA vaccine. The contraception and the correlation with humoral and cellular immune responses were analyzed after immunization and mating. The effect of cytokine adjuvant on the maturation of DCs was evaluated. Results Co-immunization of GM-CSF and IL-5 with mZP3 DNA vaccine induced the highest level of serum IgG and IL-4 expression in CD4+ T cells. Importantly, this strategy reduced mice fertility without disrupting normal ovarian morphology. GM-CSF enhanced the maturation of DCs evidenced by up-regulating the expression of MHC-II and CD86. Conclusion GM-CSF and IL-5 co-administration enhanced humoral immune responses to mZP3, and this may be a potential strategy for development of immunocontraceptive vaccine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The δ18O values of marine benthic foraminifera indicate a long-term cooling through the middle and late Eocene around the globe. During the same time period, the India–Asia plate collision and the Pacific–Asia plate convergence must have significantly affected East Asia, especially East China. In this context, the evolving pattern of vegetation in East Asia and its controlling factor remains uncertain. In this study, 19 published Paleogene pollen records with independent age control in China were compiled and analyzed. The results indicate that the tropical and subtropical taxa and their percentages increased from the Late Paleocene to the Early Eocene, implying a warming trend in East Asia. From the Middle to the Late Eocene, the tropical and subtropical taxa and their percentages decreased continuously, showing a stepwise cooling. The most dramatic changes in vegetation occurred from the Late Eocene to the Early Oligocene in China, which is characterized by universal increase in coniferous pollen. This evolution trend of palynoflora in China appears well consistent with the δ18O curve of marine benthic foraminifera, revealing that global climate made a major contribution to changes in East-Asian vegetation during the Paleogene. It is noteworthy that from the Late Paleocene to the Early Oligocene East China was always wetter than West China so that broadleaf trees could bloom and develop continuously in East China. Influenced by the India–Asia plate collision and the Pacific–Asia plate convergence, the extensional basins in East China developed significantly during the Paleogene, and provided favorable locations and adequate moisture for the continuous development of broadleaf trees in East China. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • A multi-yolk-shell structure is constructed to disclose the reaction activity of Fe-based compounds toward potassium-ion storage. • FeSe 2 @C shows superior rate capability due to the good electron/K+ conductivity of FeSe 2 and its excellent pseudocapacitive behavior. • The weak electron conductivity of FeS 2 and large K+ diffusion barrier of FeP result in inferior potassium storage performance. Iron-based compounds have been extensively applied as anode materials for alkali-ion batteries. Nevertheless, how the intrinsic properties of Fe-based compounds affect their alkali-ion storage behavior still remain blurry, hampering the rational structure design of Fe-based anodes for superior performance. Herein, the reaction activities of various Fe-based compounds (e.g., FeS 2 , FeSe 2 , and FeP) toward K/Na/Li-ion storage are studied by rationally encapsulating Fe-compounds into hollow carbon boxes with an identical multi-yolk-shell structure. For potassium storage, FeSe 2 @C composite manifests the best battery performance with high capacity, superior rate capability, and excellent cycling behavior. FeS 2 @C exhibits high capacity, but with poor cycling retention and inferior rate capability. FeP@C shows the lowest capacity and poorest rate capability. As disclosed by density functional theory calculation and kinetics analysis, the superior potassium storage behavior of FeSe 2 @C is due to the high electrical conductivity and proper K+ diffusion ability of FeSe 2 , as well as its excellent pseudocapacitive behavior. The weak electron conductivity of FeS 2 is responsible for its poor rate performance, and the large K+ diffusion barrier of FeP leads to its low reaction activity toward potassium-ion storage. Moreover, FeSe 2 @C also displays best rate capability among these Fe-based composites for both sodium and lithium storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge diffusion in regional innovation ecosystems is an important factor that influences the regional innovation efficiency. In regional innovation ecosystems under digital empowerment, the knowledge diffusion enables the optimal allocation of innovation resources and promotes the sustainable development and ecological evolution of regional innovation ecosystems. In this paper, a SEIR (Susceptible–Exposed–Infected–Recovered) model is proposed for knowledge diffusion in regional innovation ecosystems under digitization. The basic reproduction number of the proposed model is calculated and its stability is validated. Finally, the expressions for the optimal control system and the optimal control parameters are presented. According to the research conclusions of this paper, the knowledge-diffusion ability of innovation agents in an innovation ecosystem affects the knowledge diffusion in a system; the contact rate between innovation agents affects the efficiency of knowledge diffusion in the system and the structure of the system; the digital transmission ability of innovation agents affects the breadth of knowledge diffusion in the system; and the self-learning ability of innovation agents affects the efficiency of knowledge diffusion in the system.The digital technologies help heterogeneous innovation agents in regional innovation ecosystems to break down the knowledge silos. At the same time, the digital technologies enhance the ability of innovation agents to absorb and learn knowledge in regional innovation ecosystems under digitization, thereby increasing the infection rate of knowledge diffusion in such systems.These conclusions extend the theoretical boundaries of innovation ecosystems and knowledge diffusion and offer management implications for enterprises and governments in decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The first mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) supported atomically precise palladium nanoclusters catalyzed alcohol oxidation reactions in water have been achieved. The catalysts was synthesized with simple impregnation method and well characterized by TEM, FT-IR, XPSanddiffuse reflectance optical spectrumand the results proved that the Pd nanoclustersimmobilized into the pores of MSNs.The as-prepared catalyst show excellent activity for the alcohol oxidation reactions with high yield under extremely mild aqueous conditions utilizes 1 atmosphere of molecular oxygen as sole oxidant. The features of clean system, gram-scale oxidation and easy recovery catalyst make this method cost effectively and environmentally benign. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lack of monthly-resolved paleoenvironmental records beyond the instrumental era hinders our full understanding of global climate dynamics. Tridacna gigas shells have a large potential to quantitatively document the variability of the ocean surface environment on time scales from daily to interannual in the past, while the applicability of the geochemical proxies of Tridacna gigas needs to be quantitively investigated. Here we establish a chronology for a Tridacna gigas shell from the southern South China Sea (SCS) by identifying daily growth laminae using a laser scanning confocal microscope (LSCM). Our high-resolution Tridacna gigas shell δ18O shell record throughout 1989–2013 shows a high correlation with changes in local precipitation and the index of El Niño-Southern Oscillations (ENSO) on the interannual time scale. Together with observed sea surface temperature (SST), we calculated seawater δ18O (δ18O sw) and derived sea surface salinity (SSS) change in the southern SCS based on the Tridacna gigas shell δ18O record. Our salinity-budget calculation results suggest that the SSS variability in the southern SCS is predominantly affected by the vertical mixing and sea surface freshwater flux. Our study reveals that the Tridacna gigas shell is an ideal archive for high-resolution and quantitative paleoenvironmental reconstructions in tropical ocean regions, thus providing a new window to explore paleoenvironmental changes on annual and interannual time scales. • A method to analyze the growth chronology of Tridacna gigas bivalve shell was developed. • A δ18O record of Tridacna gigas shell between 1989 and 2013 was generated. • The δ18O record indicates the variability of precipitation and ENSO. • A sea surface salinity (SSS) record between 1989 and 2013 was reconstructed. • SSS in the southern South China Sea is dominated by vertical mixing and freshwater flux. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Respiratory viral infections (RVIs) are common reasons for healthcare consultations. The inpatient management of RVIs consumes significant resources. From 2009 to 2014, we assessed the costs of RVI management in 4776 hospitalized children aged 0–18 years participating in a quality improvement program, where all ILI patients underwent virologic testing at the National Reference Centre followed by detailed recording of their clinical course. The direct (medical or non-medical) and indirect costs of inpatient management outside the ICU ('non-ICU') versus management requiring ICU care ('ICU') added up to EUR 2767.14 (non-ICU) vs. EUR 29,941.71 (ICU) for influenza, EUR 2713.14 (non-ICU) vs. EUR 16,951.06 (ICU) for RSV infections, and EUR 2767.33 (non-ICU) vs. EUR 14,394.02 (ICU) for human rhinovirus (hRV) infections, respectively. Non-ICU inpatient costs were similar for all eight RVIs studied: influenza, RSV, hRV, adenovirus (hAdV), metapneumovirus (hMPV), parainfluenza virus (hPIV), bocavirus (hBoV), and seasonal coronavirus (hCoV) infections. ICU costs for influenza, however, exceeded all other RVIs. At the time of the study, influenza was the only RVI with antiviral treatment options available for children, but only 9.8% of influenza patients (non-ICU) and 1.5% of ICU patients with influenza received antivirals; only 2.9% were vaccinated. Future studies should investigate the economic impact of treatment and prevention of influenza, COVID-19, and RSV post vaccine introduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Global warming during the Miocene Climate Optimum (MCO, ∼17–14 million years ago) is associated with massive carbon emissions sourced from the flood basalt volcanism and ocean crustal production. However, the perturbation of tectonic carbon degassing on the interaction between climate change and carbon cycle remains unclear. Here, through time-evolutive phase analysis of new and published high-resolution benthic foraminiferal oxygen (δ 18O) and carbon (δ 13C) isotope records from the global ocean, we find that variations in the marine carbon cycle lead the climate-cryosphere system (δ 13C-lead- δ 18O) on 405,000-year eccentricity timescales during the MCO. This is in contrast to the previously reported climate-lead-carbon (δ 18O-lead- δ 13C) scenario during most of the Oligo-Miocene (∼34–6 million years ago). Further sensitivity analysis and model simulations suggest that the elevated atmospheric CO 2 concentrations and the resulting greenhouse effect strengthened the low-latitude hydrological cycle during the MCO, accelerating the response of marine carbon cycle to eccentricity forcing. Tropical climate processes played a more important role in regulating carbon-cycle variations when Earth's climate was in a warm regime, as opposed to the dominant influence of polar ice-sheet dynamics during the Plio-Pleistocene (after ∼6 million years ago). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Emerging studies support the oncogenic role of WD repeat domain 62 (WDR62) in few tumors, while no pan-cancer analysis is available. In this study, we analyzed systematically the oncogenic role of WDR62 across a series of human tumors based on bioinformatic data mining. Methods. The expression level of WDR62 was analyzed via GEPIA2, TIMER, UALCAN, and StarBase databases. The prognostic role was analyzed via GEPIA2, TIMER, UALCAN, StarBase, TISIDB, TCGA portal, Kaplan-Meier Plotter, and PrognoScan databases. Then, we explored the causes for WDR62 abnormal expression via TCGA portal and UALCAN databases. Subsequently, the STRING and GeneMANIA databases were used to find the interactive networks for WDR62. Furthermore, we analyzed the correlation between WDR62 expression and immune features via TIMER and TISIDB databases. Results. We found that WDR62 was significantly upregulated in most of the tumors and correlated with poor prognosis mainly in 6 candidate tumors—BLCA, BRCA, KIRC, KIRP, LIHC, and LUAD. Abnormal WDR62 expression may be probably attributed to TP53 mutation and promoter DNA methylation. Relative network analysis demonstrated that WDR62 was mainly involved in MAPK and toll-like receptor signaling pathway. WDR62 expression was associated with various immune cell infiltrations, especially cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) and T cell regulatory (Treg) cells, and was markedly correlated with poor prognosis. Moreover, WDR62 expression was closely associated with the expression of some immunomodulators such as PD-L1 and has a significant prognostic value. Conclusions. Our study revealed that WDR62 could serve as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for several cancers. Importantly, WDR62 was closely associated with various immune cell infiltration, and to a certain extent, it can predict the effect of immunotherapy in particular PD1/PD-L1 inhibitors. Our pan-cancer study provided useful information on the oncogenic role of WDR62, contributing to further exploring the underlying mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fairy shrimp are the most divergent taxon of large branchiopod crustaceans and have a worldwide distribution. Yet the diversity and distribution of fairy shrimps in the "Roof of the World" remain poorly known. Here, based on morphology, we identified three species of fairy shrimp (Branchinecta orientalis, Chirocephalus graziellae and Branchipodopsis affinis), among 14 fairy-shrimp populations from the Tibetan Plateau, China. Their phylogenetic relationships were verified based on mitochondrial DNA sequences (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene) and two nuclear markers (18S ribosomal RNA gene and internal transcribed spacer 2). Syntopy of different species of fairy shrimp was observed. Some haplotypes were shared among populations, and sequences from B. affinis exhibited a star-like pattern in haplotype networks, suggesting a recent rapid expansion. Finally, a high genetic diversity of fairy shrimp was detected on the Tibetan Plateau. Obtained results contribute to a better knowledge of the diversity of high-altitude fairy shrimps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human motion classification based on micro-Doppler effect has been widely used in various fields. However, the motion classification performance would be greatly degraded if the wireless environment has non-target micro-motion interference. In this case, the interference signal aliases with the signal of target human motions and then generates cross-terms, making the signals hard to be used to identify target human motions. Existing methods do not consider this non-target micro-motion interference and have poor resistance to such interference. In this paper, we propose a target human motion classification system that can work in the scenarios with non-target micro-motion interference. Specifically, we build a continuous wave radar transceiver working in a low-frequency radar band using the software defined radio equipment Universal Software Radio Peripheral (USRP) N210 to collect signals. Moreover, we use Empirical Mode Decomposition and S-transform successively to remove non-target micro-motion interference and improve the time-frequency resolution of the raw signal. Then, an Energy Aggregation method based on S-method is proposed, which can suppress cross-terms and background noise. Furthermore, we extract a set of features and classify four human motions by adopting Bagged Trees. Extensive experiments using the test-bed show that under the scenarios with non-target micro-motion interference, 97.3% classification accuracy can be achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the problem of the delay-dependent robust H ∞ control for a class of uncertain neutral systems with mixed time-varying delays is studied. Firstly, a robust delay-dependent asymptotic stability criterion is shown by linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) after introducing a new Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional (LKF). The LKF including vital terms is expected to obtain results of less conservatism by employing the technique of various efficient convex optimization algorithms and free matrices. Then, based on the obtained criterion, analyses for uncertain systems and H ∞ controller design are presented. Moreover, on the analysis of the state-feedback controller, different from the traditional method which multiplies the matrix inequality left and right by some matrix and its transpose, respectively, we can obtain the state-feedback gain directly by calculating the LMIs through the toolbox of MATLAB in this paper. Finally, the feasibility and validity of the method are illustrated by examples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]