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Abstract With the advancement of industrial low carbonization and electrification, emerging industrial production technologies have the characteristics of high‐power consumption and significant impact load. In the context of increasing global climate change, frequent extreme weather events have brought serious challenges to the balance of power and electricity in the power system, and have a significant impact on the production scheduling of industrial users, especially industrial users using electrified production technology. First, based on the representative high‐power industrial users of hydrogen reduction steel plants and internet datacentres (IDC), this paper establishes a flexible resource scheduling optimization model for single industrial users, and considers the collaborative relationship between multi‐user flexible resources to establish a collaborative scheduling optimization model for industrial users. Then, considering the charging and discharging characteristics of electric vehicles (EV) in extreme scenarios, the redundant capacity of EVs is aggregated by EV aggregators and sold to industrial users, and a collaborative scheduling optimization model of EV aggregators and industrial users is established. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed model and algorithm is verified by simulation analysis. Compared with the traditional industrial user production optimization, the proposed model can tap the potential of multi‐agent scheduling operation in extreme scenarios.

Abstract Background Despite significant strides in lung cancer immunotherapy, the response rates for Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (KRAS)‐driven lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patients remain limited. Fibrinogen‐like protein 1 (FGL1) is a newly identified immune checkpoint target, and the study of related resistance mechanisms is crucial for improving the treatment outcomes of LUAD patients. This study aimed to elucidate the potential mechanism by which FGL1 regulates the tumor microenvironment in KRAS‐mutated cancer. Methods The expression levels of FGL1 and SET1 histone methyltransferase (SET1A) in lung cancer were assessed using public databases and clinical samples. Lentiviruses were constructed for transduction to overexpress or silence FGL1 in lung cancer cells and mouse models. The effects of FGL1 and Yes‐associated protein (Yap) on the immunoreactivity of cytotoxic T cells in tumor tissues were evaluated using immunofluorescence staining and flow cytometry. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and dual luciferase reporter assays were used to study the SET1A‐directed transcriptional program. Results Upregulation of FGL1 expression in KRAS‐mutated cancer was inversely correlated with the infiltration of CD8+ T cells. Mechanistically, KRAS activated extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), which subsequently phosphorylated SET1A and increased its stability and nuclear localization. SET1A‐mediated methylation of Yap led to Yap sequestration in the nucleus, thereby promoting Yap‐induced transcription of FGL1 and immune evasion in KRAS‐driven LUAD. Notably, dual blockade of programmed cell death‐1 (PD‐1) and FGL1 further increased the therapeutic efficacy of anti‐PD‐1 immunotherapy in LUAD patients. Conclusion FGL1 could be used as a diagnostic biomarker of KRAS‐mutated lung cancer, and targeting the Yap‐FGL1 axis could increase the efficacy of anti‐PD‐1 immunotherapy.

Abstract Due to the richness of natural image semantics, natural image colourisation is a challenging problem. Existing methods often suffer from semantic confusion due to insufficient semantic understanding, resulting in unreasonable colour assignments, especially at the edges of objects. This phenomenon is referred to as colour bleeding. The authors have found that using the self‐attention mechanism benefits the model's understanding and recognition of object semantics. However, this leads to another problem in colourisation, namely dull colour. With this in mind, a Position‐Spatial Attention Network(PSANet) is proposed to address the colour bleeding and the dull colour. Firstly, a novel new attention module called position‐spatial attention module (PSAM) is introduced. Through the proposed PSAM module, the model enhances the semantic understanding of images while solving the dull colour problem caused by self‐attention. Then, in order to further prevent colour bleeding on object boundaries, a gradient‐aware loss is proposed. Lastly, the colour bleeding phenomenon is further improved by the combined effect of gradient‐aware loss and edge‐aware loss. Experimental results show that this method can reduce colour bleeding largely while maintaining good perceptual quality.

Bioretention systems can efficiently eliminate microplastics (MPs) from stormwater and prevent their potential pollution in surface water. However, MPs dynamics in bioretention systems and their effects on microbes, plants, and organics removal are unknown. In this study, five lab-scale bioretention columns (i.e., control and four treatments) were established and filled with soil and fillers (zeolite and ceramsite). Various sorbents were utilized in columns, including biochar, kaolin and kaolin-biochar (KBC) composites for MPs adsorption. This study examines how biochar/kaolin amendment affects MPs and organics (COD and TOC) removal, plant health, and microbial community structure in bioretention systems. In the 60-day time-series column experiment, all amended columns removed over 90% of MPs compared to the control. The biochar, kaolin and their combined composite eliminated MPs by 90%, 94%, and 97%, respectively. Adding vegetation to the columns improved MPs removal. Moreover, bioretention systems were more effective in removing MPs ranging from 0.6 to 1 mm with a 71% removal rate than MPs ranging from 0.3 to 0.6 mm, resulting in a 54% removal. Organics were removed contrarily in the soil and filler layer of the bioretention system, with the soil layer removal higher due to increased microbial activity. The removal rate of total organic carbon was higher (90%) than that of chemical oxygen demand (80%). The most dominant phylum of the bacteria in the soil of treatment columns were Proteobacteria and Acidobacteriota, which constituted 16‐27% and 41‐58%, respectively. While the dominant phylum in that of fillers were Bacteroidota and Firmicutes, which constituted 18‐42% and 42‐65%, respectively. The maximum microbial enrichment was observed in the biochar and KBC vegetated columns. This work advances our understanding of the complex dynamics between microplastics and organic matter in stormwater and how, individually and in combination, vegetation, biochar, and kaolin vegetation, biochar, and kaolin, individually and in combination, enhance bioretention systems' effectiveness in managing multiple pollutants.

Abstract Aims To examine whether an extended lifestyle metrics incorporating sleep quality improves risk stratification for metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), at-risk metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and significant fibrosis. Methods A total of 5011 participants with abdominal ultrasound from Imaging sub-cohort of South China Cohort (ISSCC) and 3672 participants underwent vibration controlled transient elastography from US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (US NHANES) were included. Liver Essential 5 was constructed by incorporating sleep quality into traditional healthy lifestyles (HLS). Results A total of 4.66–17.72% of the association between traditional HLS and MAFLD was mediated by sleep quality regardless of the detection techniques, and their joint associations on MAFLD were significant in both cohorts. ORs for individuals with poor sleep and unfavorable HLS were 1.72 (1.29–2.30) in ISSCC and 2.25 (1.55–3.26) in US NHANES, respectively. Around half of the participants previously considered as following a favorable HLS were re-classified by Liver Essential 5 with significantly higher prevalences of MAFLD in both cohorts (P

Infections caused by intracellular bacterial pathogens are difficult to treat since most antibiotics have low cell permeability and undergo rapid degradation within cells. The rapid development and dissemination of antimicrobial–resistant strains have exacerbated this dilemma. With the increasing knowledge of host–pathogen interactions, especially bacterial strategies for survival and proliferation within host cells, host-directed therapy (HDT) has attracted increased interest and has emerged as a promising anti-infection method for treating intracellular infection. Herein, we applied a cell-based screening approach to a US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drug library to identify compounds that can inhibit the intracellular replication of Salmonella Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium). This screening allowed us to identify the antidiarrheal agent loperamide (LPD) as a potent inhibitor of S. Typhimurium intracellular proliferation. LPD treatment of infected cells markedly promoted the host autophagic response and lysosomal activity. A mechanistic study revealed that the increase in host autophagy and elimination of intracellular bacteria were dependent on the high expression of glycoprotein nonmetastatic melanoma protein B (GPNMB) induced by LPD. In addition, LPD treatment effectively protected against S. Typhimurium infection in Galleria mellonella and mouse models. Thus, our study suggested that LPD may be useful for the treatment of diseases caused by intracellular bacterial pathogens. Moreover, LPD may serve as a promising lead compound for the development of anti-infection drugs based on the HDT strategy.

An analytical method based on quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged and safe (QuEChERS) cleanup using an enhanced matrix removal lipid (EMR-Lipid) sorbent combined with ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) was established for the rapid determination of 57 industrial dyes illegally added in foods. The sample was extracted with acetonitrile, and the extract was purified by QuEChERS. The analytes were separated on an Agilent ZORBAX Eclipse RRHD C18 column (3.0 mm × 150 mm, 1.8 μm) with gradient elution using a mobile phase composed of acetonitrile and 0.1% formic acid, detected using an electrospray ionization source operated under the positive mode with multiple reaction monitoring (MRM), and quantified by an external standard method. The results showed that good linearity was observed for all analytes in the concentration range from 20 to 300 ng/mL with correlation coefficients higher than 0.999. The limits of detection (LOD) and quantitation (LOQ) were 10 and 25 μg/kg, respectively. The recoveries at 3 spiked levels (25, 100 and 250 μg/kg) were 72.1%–119.1%, with relative standard deviations (RSDs, n = 6) of 0.19%–4.58%. The developed method was used to detect illegal addition of industrial dyes in soybean products, condiments, aquatic products, and meat products (n = 20 for each type). Alkaline yellow was detected in one bath of Sichuan pepper powder at a level of 32.9 μg/kg. In conclusion, this method is rapid, accurate, sensitive, and suitable for the determination of the 57 industrial dyes illegally added in foods.

Abstract Background Self-directed learning ability is crucial for lifelong learning. The inadequate self-directed learning ability of nursing students in China may be due to their deficiency in self-management or learning initiative. Objective To explore the effect of online learning platform (Tronclass) combined with team-based learning on nursing students’ self-directed learning and academic performance. Design Pretest-posttest design. Participants From March to July 2023, 69 undergraduate third-year nursing students from a university in Hunan Province were selected through a whole-group sampling method. Methods This study used Tronclass to carry out team-based learning in the teaching process of pediatric nursing courses. It compared the self-directed learning ability nursing students before and after courses, and juxtaposed their academic performance with those of their counterparts who graduated in previous years. Results When comparing compare motivation, self-management, teamwork and information literacy, which are four subscale aspects of the self-directed Learning Ability Scale, the post-survey scores for these four dimensions are greater than the pre-survey results. The results of the study showed a statistically significant difference (P

Abstract Alternative polyadenylation (APA) plays a crucial role in cancer biology. Here, we used data from the 3′aQTL-atlas, GTEx, and the China Nanjing Lung Cancer GWAS database to explore the association between apaQTL/eQTL-SNPs and the risk of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). The variant T allele of rs277646 in NIT2 is associated with an increased risk of LUAD (OR = 1.12, P = 0.015), lower PDUI values, and higher NIT2 expression. The 3′RACE experiment showed multiple poly (A) sites in NIT2, with the rs277646-T allele causing preferential use of the proximal poly (A) site, resulting in a shorter 3′UTR transcript. This leads to the loss of the hsa-miR-650 binding site, thereby affecting LUAD malignant phenotypes by regulating the expression level of NIT2. Our findings may provide new insights into understanding and exploring APA events in LUAD carcinogenesis.

Immunotherapy based on immune checkpoint blockade has emerged as a promising treatment strategy; however, the therapeutic efficacy is limited by the immunosuppressive microenvironment. Here, we developed a novel immune-activated nanoparticle (Fc-SS-Fe/Cu) to address the issue of insufficient immune infiltration. Specifically, the structure of Fc-SS-Fe/Cu collapsed in response to the tumor microenvironment, the ferrocene and disulfide bonds and the released Fe/Cu ions can effectively generate ·OH and deplete GSH to increase oxidative stress, thereby inducing ferroptosis. Withal, the positive feedback mechanisms of ''laser-triggered mild-temperature photothermal therapy (PTT), PTT accelerated ferroptosis and LPO accumulation, LPO mediated HSPs down-regulated to promote PTT,'' effectively triggers immunogenic cell death (ICD) in tumor cells, significantly enhancing their immunogenicity. Moreover, the O2-generating ability induced by Fc-SS-Fe/Cu could reverse the hypoxic tumor microenvironment, and importantly, the expression of PD-L1 on tumor cell surfaces could be effectively downregulated by inhibiting the HIF-1α pathways, thereby augmenting the effect of anti-PD-L1 (αPD-L1) therapy. Therefore, this study provides valuable strategies into enhancing PD-L1-mediated ICB therapy.

Background Immunotherapy combined with azacitidine was feasible in higher-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDSs) with limited sample size of treatment-naïve patients, while the optimization of treatment strategies, including the optimal immune checkpoint inhibitor and hypomethylating agent and possible benefiting population, remained undefined. This study first evaluates the efficacy and safety of sintilimab, a PD-1 blockade, plus decitabine in treatment-naïve higher-risk MDS patients and investigates biomarkers for predicting treatment response.Methods In this phase II, single-arm trial (ChiCTR2100044393), treatment-naïve higher-risk MDS patients with an International Prognostic Scoring System-Revised score >3.5 received sintilimab (200 mg, days 1 and 22) and decitabine (20 mg/m2, day 1–5) over 6-week cycles. The primary endpoint was the overall response rate (ORR), including complete remission (CR), partial remission (PR) or marrow CR.Results A total of 54 eligible patients were enrolled and treated, with 25 (46.3%) having very high-risk MDS. Among 53 evaluable patients, the ORR was 77.4% (n=41), including 26.4% CR (n=14). The overall clinical improvement rate (CR, PR, marrow CR or hematological improvement) reached 81.1%. With a median follow-up of 20.0 months, the median event-free survival was 23 months with 12 progressing to acute myeloid leukemia. Median overall survival was not reached. Treatment was generally well tolerated, with hematologic toxicities being the most common adverse events. Biomarker analysis highlighted a negative correlation between T cell exhaustion markers, particularly TIM-3 and PD-1, with ORR.Conclusions The combination of sintilimab and decitabine shows promise efficacy for higher-risk MDS, with a favorable safety profile. The potential predictive value of T cell exhaustion biomarkers might help screen the possible benefiting population.Trial registration number ChiCTR210044393.

Abstract Perovskites have gained widespread attention across various fields such as photovoltaics, displays, and imaging. Despite their promising applications, achieving precise and high‐quality patterning of perovskite films remains a challenge. In this study, femtosecond laser direct writing technology is utilized to achieve rapid and highly precise micro/nanofabrication on perovskites. The study successfully fabricates multiple structured and emission‐tunable perovskite patterns composed of A2(FA)n−1PbnX3n+1 (A represents a series of long‐chain amine cations, and X = Cl, Br, I), encompassing 2D, quasi‐2D, and 3D structures. The study delves into the intricate interplay between fabrication technology and the growth of multi‐dimensional perovskites: higher repetition rates, coupled with appropriate laser power, prove more conducive to perovskite growth. By employing precise halogen element design, the simultaneous generation of two distinct color quick‐response (QR) code patterns is achieved through one‐step laser processing. These mirrored QR codes offer a novel approach to anti‐counterfeiting. To further enhance anti‐counterfeiting capabilities, artificial intelligence (AI)‐based methods are introduced for recognizing patterned perovskite anti‐counterfeiting labels. The combination of deep learning algorithms and a non‐deterministic manufacturing process provides a convenient means of identification and creates unclonable features. This integration of materials science, laser fabrication, and AI offers innovative solutions for the future of security features.

Narrow-linewidth semiconductor lasers are highly valued in scientific research and industrial applications owing to their high coherence and low phase noise characteristics, particularly in high-performance optical communications, sensing, and microwave photonic systems. Accuracy, a key objective of many application systems, is determined by the noise of the light source. As system accuracy improves, the requirements for the light source become more stringent, with linewidth reduction and noise reduction being the top priorities. Currently, extensive attention and research are focused on suppressing noise generated by narrow-linewidth lasers. This paper presents noise measurement methods, analyses of the mechanisms for noise suppression, and recent research progress in low-noise semiconductor lasers, focusing on material optimization, structural design, and feedback control. The limitations of current technological solutions are discussed, and future scientific trends are outlined.

Water resource carrying capacity (WRCC) is crucial to regional development and sustainable growth. The Qinling Mountain (QLM) is an important area for water source protection and conservation of the Yangtze River and the Yellow River. Therefore, it is vital to investigate the WRCC in the QLM region to preserve the ecosystem. This study established a driving force-pressure-state-impact response (DPSIR) model and coupled it with the ideal solution similarity ranking technique (TOPSIS) to evaluate the WRCC of the QLM, the driving factors affecting the WRCC of the QLM were identified by establishing a obstacle degree (OD) model. The results indicated that the WRCC in the QLM region exhibited an overall upward trend in the period, with four phases identified: the initial growth phase, rapid development phase, stable rising phase, and steady fluctuation phase. Since the promulgation of the relevant ecological protection policy in 2007, industrial development in the southern Qinling Mountains has been restricted, and the rapid recovery of the ecological environment has made the change trend of WRCC in the southern QLM is 8.23 % faster than that in the northern. Moreover, all subsystems demonstrated a declining trend through the obstacle degree model, with the impact subsystem displaying the most significant reduction, ranging from 65.3 to 3.8. This suggested that ecological protection measures achieved notable results. Reassigning the weighted calculations based on the obstacle degree model, the factors affecting WRCC exhibited significant temporal differences. The development of an extensive economy characterized by high energy consumption, high pollution, high cost, and low efficiency was the primary constraint from 2000 to 2009, while the expansion of urbanization became the main obstacle from 2010 to 2021. This study provides new insights into the spatiotemporal changes in WRCC in the QLM region, revealing the mechanisms driving regional WRCC, and also provides a reference for the evaluation of WRCC in other regions.

Abstract Three novel asymmetric Ir(III) complexes have been rationally designed to optimize their emitting dipole orientations (EDO) and enhance light outcoupling in blue phosphorescent organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs), thereby boosting their external quantum efficiency (EQE). Bulky electron‐donating groups (EDGs), namely: carbazole (Cz), di‐tert‐butyl carbazole (tBuCz), and phenoxazine (Pxz) are incorporated into the tridentate dicarbene pincer chelate to induce high degree of packing anisotropy, simultaneously enhancing their photophysical properties. Angle‐dependent photoluminescence (ADPL) measurements indicate increased horizontal transition dipole ratios of 0.89 and 0.90 for the Ir(III) complexes Cz‐dfppy‐CN and tBuCz‐dfppy‐CN, respectively. Analysis of the single crystal structure and density functional theory (DFT) calculation results revealed an inherent correlation between molecular aspect ratio and EDO. Utilizing the newly obtained emitters, the blue OLED devices demonstrated exceptional performance, achieving a maximum EQE of 30.7% at a Commission International de l'Eclairage (CIE) coordinate of (0.140, 0.148). Optical transfer matrix‐based simulations confirmed a maximum outcoupling efficiency of 35% due to improved EDO. Finally, the tandem OLED and hyper‐OLED devices exhibited a maximum EQE of 44.2% and 31.6%, respectively, together with good device stability. This rational molecular design provides straightforward guidelines to reach highly efficient and stable saturated blue emission.

Objective: To investigate the changes in fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) after treatment and the association between FeNO changes and the prognosis and lung function of children with asthma. Methods: A total of 144 children newly enrolled with non-standardized treatment of asthma were recruited between September 2020 and December 2021. The children were divided into two groups according to the initial FeNO (0 day), and the changes in FeNO after Budesonide/Formoterol Inhalation Powder Mist (B/FIPM) treatment were observed in different subgroups in correlation with future outcomes after 1 year (well controlled or partly controlled) and lung function. Results: The study showed that B/FIPM therapy significantly reduced FeNO levels and eosinophils (EOS) counts, improving pulmonary function (P 0 (72.73 %) than that in the ΔFeNO ≤0 group (53.85 %) (P = 0.042). Conclusion: B/FIPM is effective in reducing FeNO levels and EOS counts and restoring lung function in children with asthma. In addition, post-treatment changes in FeNO were predictive of prognosis and correlated with post-treatment lung function.

Single-atom catalysts (SACs) are gaining popularity in catalytic reactions due to their nearly 100 ​% atomic utilization and defined active sites, which provide great convenience for studying the catalytic mechanism of catalysts. However, SACs still present challenges such as complex formation processes, low loading and easy agglomeration of catalysts. Herein, we systematically discuss the synthesis methods for SACs, including co-precipitation, impregnation, atomic layer deposition, pyrolysis and Anti-Ostwald ripening etc. Various techniques for characterizing single-atom catalysts (SACs) are described in detail. The utilization of individual atoms in various photocatalytic reactions and their mechanisms of action in different reactions are explained. The purpose of this review is to introduce single-atom synthesis methods, characterization techniques, specific catalytic action and their applications in the direction of photocatalysis, and to provide a reference for the industrialization of photocatalytic single-atoms, which is currently impossible, in the hope of promoting further development of photocatalytic single-atoms.

Abstract Background Neuroblastoma (NB) is a highly heterogeneous tumor, and more than half of newly diagnosed NB are associated with extensive metastases. Accurately characterizing the heterogeneity of whole-body tumor lesions remains clinical challenge. This study aims to quantify whole-tumoral metabolic heterogeneity (WMH) derived from whole-body tumor lesions, and investigate the prognostic value of WMH in NB. Methods We retrospectively enrolled 95 newly diagnosed pediatric NB patients in our department. Traditional semi-quantitative PET/CT parameters including the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax), the mean standardized uptake value (SUVmean), the peak standardized uptake value (SUVpeak), metabolic tumor volume (MTV) and total lesion glycolysis (TLG) were measured. These PET/CT parameters were expressed as PSUVmax, PSUVmean, PSUVpeak, PMTV, PTLG for primary tumor, WSUVmax, WSUVmean, WSUVpeak, WMTV, WTLG for whole-body tumor lesions. The metabolic heterogeneity was quantified using the areas under the curve of the cumulative SUV-volume histogram index (AUC-CSH index). Intra-tumoral metabolic heterogeneity (IMH) and WMH were extracted from primary tumor and whole-body tumor lesions, respectively. The outcome endpoints were overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Survival analysis was performed utilizing the univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression. The optimal cut-off values for metabolic parameters were obtained by receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC). Results During follow up, 27 (28.4%) patients died, 21 (22.1%) patients relapsed and 47 (49.5%) patients remained progression-free survival, with a median follow-up of 35.0 months. In survival analysis, WMTV and WTLG were independent indicators of PFS, and WMH was an independent risk factor of PFS and OS. However, IMH only showed association with PFS and OS. In addition to metabolic parameters, the International Neuroblastoma Staging System (INSS) was identified as an independent risk factor for PFS, and neuron-specific enolase (NSE) served as an independent predictor of OS. Conclusion WMH was an independent risk factor for PFS and OS, suggesting its potential as a novel prognostic marker for newly diagnosed NB patients.

Abstract Introduction Lung cancer (LC) is the most common solid tumor and is currently considered the primary cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. In clinical efficacy studies, it was not difficult to find that the combination of SFI and chemotherapy could improve the general condition of patients, reduce the side effects of chemotherapy drugs, and have a cooperative antitumor effect in NSCLC patients. However, whether SFI can be used as a novel antitumor drug is still unknown. Methods First, meta-analysis aimed to explore the efficacy of SFI in NSCLC patients, and SFI was identified by ultra-performance liquid chromatography‒mass spectrometry (UPLC‒MS). Cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were explored by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), scratch healing, and Transwell assays, respectively. Cell cycle and apoptosis assays were performed by flow cytometry. Transcriptome sequencing analysis was performed in four NSCLC cell lines. Differential expression analysis was used to identify potential targets. Apoptosis-related protein levels were detected by Western blotting assays. The effects of SFI in NSCLC were further investigated by mouse xenografts. Results SFI could markedly improve the chemotherapy efficacy of NSCLC patients. The main active ingredients include flavonoids and terpenoids, which can effectively exert antitumor effects. SFI could not only inhibit tumor cell proliferation and cell migration/invasion but also regulate the cell cycle and promote tumor cell apoptosis. In NSCLC, SFI could enhance the transcription level of the CHOP gene, thereby upregulating the expression of the proapoptotic proteins Bax and caspase 3, and inhibiting the expression of the antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2. SFI hindered the growth of mouse NSCLC xenografts in vivo. Conclusions SFI hindered tumor progression and might promote apoptosis by increasing the expression of Bax, caspase 3 and decreasing the level of Bcl-2 in NSCLC.

Abstract Modulation of scattering in random lasers (RLs) by magnetic fields has attracted much attention due to its rich physical insights. We fabricate magnetic gain polymer optical fiber to generate RLs. From macroscopic experimental phenomena, with the increase of the magnetic field strength, the magnetic transverse photocurrent exists in disordered multiple scattering of RLs and the emission intensity of RLs decreases, which is the experimental observation of photonic Hall effect (PHE) and photonic magnetoresistance (PMR) in RLs. At the microscopic level, based on the field dependence theory of magnetic disorder in scattered nanoparticles and the replica symmetry breaking theory, the magnetic-induced transverse diffusion of photons reduces the scattering disorder, and then decreases the intensity fluctuation disorder of RLs. Our work establishes a connection between the above two effects and RLs, visualizes the influence of magnetic field on RL scattering at the microscopic level, which is crucial for the design of RLs.

Abstract Objective To explore the potential association between dietary live microbes and the prevalence of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases (COPD). Methods In this cross-sectional study, data of 9791 participants aged 20 years or older in this study were collected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 2013 and 2018. Participants in this study were classified into three groups according to the Sanders’ dietary live microbe classification system: low, medium, and high dietary live microbe groups. COPD was defined by a combination of self-reported physician diagnoses and standardized medical status questionnaires. Logistic regression and subgroup analysis were used to assess whether dietary live microbes were associated with the risk of COPD. Results Through full adjustment for confounders, participants in the high dietary live microbe group had a low prevalence of COPD in contrast to those in low dietary live microbe group (OR: 0.614, 95% CI: 0.474–0.795, and p

Abstract Metasurface enables the generation and manipulation of multiphoton entanglement with flat optics, providing a more efficient platform for large-scale photonic quantum information processing. Here, we show that a single metasurface optical device would allow more efficient characterizations of multiphoton entangled states, such as shadow tomography, which generally requires fast and complicated control of optical setups to perform information-complete measurements, a demanding task using conventional optics. The compact and stable device here allows implementations of general positive operator valued measures with a reduced sample complexity and significantly alleviates the experimental complexity to implement shadow tomography. Integrating self-learning and calibration algorithms, we observe notable advantages in the reconstruction of multiphoton entanglement, including using fewer measurements, having higher accuracy, and being robust against experimental imperfections. Our work unveils the feasibility of metasurface as a favorable integrated optical device for efficient characterization of multiphoton entanglement, and sheds light on scalable photonic quantum technologies with ultra-thin optical devices.

ABSTRACT: Camel milk (CM), known for its immune-regulatory, anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and antidiabetic properties, is a natural healthy food. It is easily digestible due to the high levels of β-casein and diverse secreted antibodies, exhibiting superior antibacterial and antiviral activities compared with bovine milk. β-casein is less allergic and more digestible because it is more susceptible to digestive hydrolysis in the gut; therefore, higher levels of β-casein make CM advantageous for human health. Furthermore, antibodies help the digestive system by destroying the antigens, which are then overwhelmed and digested by macrophages. The connection between the gut microbiota and human health has gained substantial research attention, as it offers potential benefits and supports disease treatment. The gut microbiota has a vital role in regulating the host's health because it helps in several biological functions, such as protection against pathogens, immune function regulation, energy harvesting from digested foods, and reinforcement of digestive tract biochemical barriers. These functions could be affected by the changes in the gut microbiota profile, and gut microbiota differences are associated with several diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease, colon cancer, irritable bowel disorder, mental illness, allergy, and obesity. This review focuses on the digestibility of CM components, particularly protein and fat, and their influence on gut microbiota modulation. Notably, the hypoallergenic properties and small fat globules of CM contribute to its enhanced digestibility. Considering the rapid digestion of its proteins under conditions simulating infant gastrointestinal digestion, CM exhibits promise as a potential alternative for infant formula preparation due to the high β-/αs-casein ratio and protective proteins, in addition to the absence of β-lactoglobulin.

The Pan-Eurasian Experiment Modelling Platform (PEEX-MP) is one of the key blocks of the PEEX Research Programme. The PEEX MP has more than 30 models and is directed towards seamless environmental prediction. The main focus area is the Arctic-boreal regions and China. The models used in PEEX-MP cover several main components of the Earth’s system, such as the atmosphere, hydrosphere, pedosphere and biosphere, and resolve the physical-chemical-biological processes at different spatial and temporal scales and resolutions. This paper introduces and discusses PEEX MP multi-scale modelling concept for the Earth system, online integrated, forward/inverse, and socioeconomical modelling, and other approaches with a particular focus on applications in the PEEX geographical domain. The employed high-performance computing facilities, capabilities, and PEEX dataflow for modelling results are described. Several virtual research platforms (PEEX-View, Virtual Research Environment, Web-based Atlas) for handling PEEX modelling and observational results are introduced. The overall approach allows us to understand better physical-chemical-biological processes, Earth’s system interactions and feedbacks and to provide valuable information for assessment studies on evaluating risks, impact, consequences, etc. for population, environment and climate in the PEEX domain. This work was also one of the last projects of Prof. Sergej Zilitinkevich, who passed away on 15 February 2021. Since the finalization took time, the paper was actually submitted in 2023 and we could not argue that the final paper text was agreed with him.

Abstract The low ion transport is a major obstacle for low‐temperature (LT) sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). Herein, a core‐shell structure of bismuth (Bi) nanospheres coated with carbon (Bi@C) is constructed by utilizing a novel Bi‐based complex (1,4,5,8‐naphthalenetetracarboxylic dianhydride as the ligand) as the precursor, which provides an effective template to fabricate Bi‐based anodes. At −40°C, the Bi@C anode achieves a high capacity, which is equivalent to 96% of that at 25°C, benefitting from the core‐shell nanostructured engineering and Na+‐ether‐solvent cointercalation process. The special Na+‐diglyme cointercalation behavior may effectively reduce the activation energy and accelerate the Na+ diffusion kinetics, enabling the excellent low‐temperature performance of the Bi@C electrode. As expected, the fabricated Na3V2(PO4)3//Bi@C full‐cell delivers impressive rechargeability in the ether‐based electrolyte at −40°C. Density functional theory calculations and electrochemical tests also reveal the fast reaction kinetic mechanism at LT, thanks to a much lower diffusion energy barrier (167 meV) and a lower reaction activation energy (32.2 kJ mol−1) of Bi@C anode in comparison with that of bulk Bi. This work provides a rational design of Bi‐based electrodes for rechargeable SIBs under extreme conditions.

Abstract Background and Objective To explore the association between protein quantitative trait loci (pQTL‐SNPs) and the risk of LUAD. Methods “Blood +” high depth blood proteomics analysis was performed on plasma from female LUAD patients and female healthy controls, and combined with proteomics data from tumors and adjacent non‐tumor tissues of female LUAD patients to screen proteins uniformly expressed in plasma and tissues. pQTL‐SNPs were then screened through multiple databases and subjected to multilevel screening. The associations between selected pQTL‐SNPs and LUAD risk were evaluated by Female Lung Cancer Consortium in Asia GWAS (FLCCA GWAS). Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is used to determine the levels of candidate protein. Results A total of 7 pQTL‐SNPs were significantly associated with altered LUAD risk (p 1, p

BackgroundImmune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-associated myocarditis is a rare, but potentially fatal, immune-related adverse event. Hence, identifying biomarkers is critical for selecting and managing patients receiving ICI treatment. Serum autoantibodies (AAbs) in patients with ICI myocarditis may serve as potential biomarkers for predicting, diagnosing, and prognosing ICI myocarditis. We conducted a pilot study using a human proteome microarray with approximately 17,000 unique full-length human proteins to investigate AAbs associated with ICI myocarditis.Methods and resultsAAb profiling was performed using sera collected from three patients with ICI myocarditis before the start of ICI treatment and immediately after myocarditis onset. All patients received anti-programmed death-1 antibody monotherapy. At baseline, 116, 296, and 154 autoantigens reacted positively to immunoglobulin G (IgG) in the serum samples from Cases 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Among these proteins, the recombination signal-binding protein for the immunoglobulin kappa J region (RBPJ) was recognized by all three samples, and 32 autoantigens were recognized by any two of the three samples. At the onset of ICI myocarditis, compared to baseline, 48, 114, and 5 autoantigens reacted more strongly with IgG in the serum samples from Cases 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Among these, antibodies against eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E binding protein 3 (EIF4EBP3) were the most upregulated, with a 38-fold increase. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses highlighted that B-cell receptor signaling, leukocyte transendothelial migration, and thymus development were among the most affected pathways. Enrichment analyses using DisGeNET revealed that proteins reacting to AAbs detected in patients with ICI myocarditis are associated with several diseases, including dilated cardiomyopathy and muscle weakness.ConclusionsThis pilot study provides the first integrated analysis of serum AAb profiling in patients with ICI myocarditis and identifies novel candidate markers associated with an increased risk of developing ICI myocarditis and its pathogenesis. However, our results require further independent validation in clinical trials involving a larger number of patients.

Summary: Brown adipose tissue (BAT) in rodents appears to be an important tissue for the clearance of plasma branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) contributing to improved metabolic health. However, the role of human BAT in plasma BCAA clearance is poorly understood. Here, we evaluate patients with prostate cancer who underwent positron emission tomography-computed tomography imaging after an injection of 18F-fluciclovine (L-leucine analog). Supraclavicular adipose tissue (AT; primary location of human BAT) has a higher net uptake rate for 18F-fluciclovine compared to subcutaneous abdominal and upper chest AT. Supraclavicular AT 18F-fluciclovine net uptake rate is lower in patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes. Finally, the expression of genes involved in BCAA catabolism is higher in the supraclavicular AT of healthy people with high BAT volume compared to those with low BAT volume. These findings support the notion that BAT can potentially function as a metabolic sink for plasma BCAA clearance in people.

Objectives: The sarcopenia (SI) index, defined as the serum creatinine to cystatin C ratio, is considered a predictor of poor muscle health and malnutrition, which is related to major adverse cardiovascular events. However, the effect of the SI index on cognitive function in stroke patients remains unknown. In this study, we aimed to examine the association between the SI and longitudinal cognitive impairment in patients with acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack. Research design and methods: Participants who met the inclusion criteria in this national, multicenter, prospective cohort study were enrolled from the Impairment of Cognition and Sleep (ICONS) study of the China National Stroke Registry-3 (CNSR-3). They were categorized into four groups according to the quartile of the SI index. Cognitive function was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scale. Multivariable-adjusted logistic regression models were performed to evaluate the association between the SI index and post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) at the 3-month follow-up. Moreover, discrimination tests were used to evaluate the incremental predictive value of the SI index beyond the potential risk factors. Furthermore, we performed subgroup analyses to test interactions. Results: Among the enrolled participants, the lower the SI index was, the worse the cognitive performance. At the 3-month follow-up, participants in the lowest SI quartile group exhibited a 42% increase in the risk of cognitive impairment relative to the highest quartile group [OR 0.58 (95% CI 0.37–0.90)]. Moreover, after applying the discrimination test, adding the SI index into the potential risk factors resulted in a slight improvement in predicting the risk of cognitive impairment [NRI 14% (P = 0.01)]. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that a lower sarcopenia index was positively associated with a higher prevalence of PSCI. Monitoring the SI index in stroke patients and early identification and treatment of individuals with low SI level may be helpful to reduce the risk of cognitive impairment.

Abstract As a drug delivery system with wide application potential, serum albumin drug‐carrying nanoparticles have attracted extensive attention in the field of drug delivery in recent years. This review aims to summarize the research progress of serum albumin drug‐loaded nanoparticles in the field of drug delivery. Firstly, the excellent properties of serum albumin as a drug carrier were introduced, several methods of preparing serum albumin nanoparticles were discussed in depth, and their advantages and disadvantages were compared. Then, the design of the nanoparticle albumin drug carrier is discussed, including the control of the size of the nanoparticle, the surface properties and the amount of drug loading, so as to achieve better drug delivery effect. Finally, a series of therapeutic approaches using serum albumin nanoparticles as drug carriers, such as anti‐cancer drug delivery and drug delivery across the blood‐brain barrier, are systematically summarized. In summary, the research of serum albumin drug‐carrying nanoparticles has brought new possibilities and opportunities to the field of drug delivery, and inspired more innovative research and practical applications.

Abstract As China's coal mines have transitioned to deep mining, the ground stress within the coal seams has progressively increased, resulting in reduced permeability and poor wetting ability of conventional wetting agents. Consequently, these agents have become inadequate in fulfilling the requirements for preventing washouts during deep mining operations. In response to the aforementioned challenges, a solution was proposed to address the issues by formulating a composite wetting agent. This composite wetting agent combines a conventional surfactant with a chelating agent called tetrasodium iminodisuccinate (IDS). By conducting a meticulous screening of surfactant monomer solutions, the ideal formulation for the composite wetting agent was determined by combining the monomer surfactant with IDS. Extensive testing, encompassing evaluations of the composite solution's apparent strain, contact angle measurements, and alterations in the oxygenated functional groups on the coal surface, led to the identification of the optimal composition. This composition consisted of IDS serving as the chelating agent and fatty alcohol polyoxyethylene ether (JFCS).Subsequent assessment of the physical and mechanical performance of the coal briquettes treated with the composite wetting agent revealed notable enhancements. These findings signify significant advancements in the field and hold promising implications. Following the application of the composite wetting agent, notable reductions were observed in the dry basis ash and dry basis full sulfur of coal. Additionally, the water content within the coal mass increased significantly, leading to a substantial enhancement in the wetting effect of the coal body. This enhanced wetting effect effectively mitigated the coal body’s inclination towards impact, thereby offering technical support for optimizing water injection into coal seams and preventing as well as treating impact ground pressure.

Abstract Background Obesity is associated with extensive white adipose tissue (WAT) expansion and remodeling. Healthy WAT expansion contributes to the maintenance of energy balance in the liver, thereby ameliorating obesity-related hepatic steatosis. Tissue-resident mesenchymal stromal cell populations, including PDGFRβ + perivascular cells, are increasingly recognized pivotal as determinants of the manner in which WAT expands. However, the full array of regulatory factors controlling WAT stromal cell functions remains to be fully elucidated. Hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) are critical regulators in WAT stromal cell populations such as adipocyte precursor cells (APCs). It is revealed that HIF1α activation within PDGFRβ + stromal cells results in the suppression of de novo adipogenesis and the promotion of a pro-fibrogenic cellular program in obese animals. However, the role of HIF2α in PDGFRβ + cells remains undetermined in vivo. Methods New genetic models were employed in which HIF1α (encoded by the Hif1a gene) and HIF2α (encoded by the Epas1 gene) are selectively inactivated in PDGFRβ + cells in an inducible manner using tamoxifen (TAM). With these models, both in vitro and in vivo functional analysis of PDGFRβ + cells lacking HIF proteins were performed. Additionally, comprehensive metabolic phenotyping in diet-induced mouse models were performed to investigate the roles of PDGFRβ + cell HIF proteins in WAT remodeling, liver energy balance and systemic metabolism. Results Unlike HIF1α inactivation, the new findings in this study suggest that inducible ablation of HIF2α in PDGFRβ + cells does not cause apparent effects on WAT expansion induced by obesogenic diet. The adipogenic ability of PDGFRβ + APCs is not significantly altered by genetic HIF2α ablation. Moreover, no difference of key parameters associated with healthy WAT remodeling such as improvements of WAT insulin sensitivity, reduction in metabolic inflammation, as well as changes in liver fat accumulation or systemic glucose metabolism, is detected in PDGFRβ + cell Epas1-deficient mice. Conclusion The new findings in this study support that, in contrast to HIF1α, PDGFRβ + cell HIF2α appears dispensable for WAT metabolic remodeling and the resulting effects on liver metabolic homeostasis in diet-induced obesity, underscoring the isoform-specific roles of HIFα proteins in the regulation of adipose tissue biology.

BackgroundSalidroside (SAL) has a protective effect on multiple organ systems. Exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the atmosphere may lead to disruptions in gut microbiota and impact intestinal health. The regulatory effect of SAL on the gut microbiota of mice exposed to PM2.5 requires further investigation.ObjectiveTo evaluate gut microbiota disruption in mice after being exposed to PM2.5 and the potential effect of SAL.MethodsForty male C57BL/6 mice, aged 6 to 8 weeks, were randomly divided into four groups: a control group, an SAL group, a PM2.5 group, and an SAL+PM2.5 group, each containing 10 mice. In the SAL group and the SAL+PM2.5 group, the mice were administered SAL (60 mg·kg−1) by gavage, while in the control group and the PM2.5 group, sterile saline (10 mL·kg−1) was administered by gavage. In the PM2.5 group and the SAL+PM2.5 group, PM2.5 suspension (8 mg·kg−1) was intratracheally instilled, and in the control group and SAL group, sterile saline (1.5 mL·kg−1) was intratracheally administered. Each experiment cycle spanned 2 d, with a total of 10 cycles conducted over 20 d. Histopathological changes in the ileum tissue of the mice were observed after HE staining. Colon contents were collected for gut microbiota sequencing and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) measurements.ResultsThe PM2.5 group showed infiltration of inflammatory cells in the ileum tissue, while the SAL+PM2.5 group exhibited only a small amount of inflammatory cell infiltration. Compared to the control group, the PM2.5 group showed decreased Shannon index (P

Abstract Spatial thinking is a set of cognitive abilities that enable people to organize, reason about, and mentally manipulate both real and imagined spaces. One of the available measurement instruments is the Spatial Thinking Ability Test (STAT). Given the critical need for spatial thinking ability measurement for junior and high school students, and the popularity of STAT to measure spatial thinking ability, revalidation of STAT is necessary as STAT was developed primarily for university students and validation of the original STAT was based on the classical test theory from which the findings are notoriously sample dependent. We used Rasch modeling to revalidate STAT as it allows parameters to be mutually independent and measures to be interval. The sample included 1340 junior and high school students. Item fit statistics, Item Characteristics Curves, unidimensionality test, and the Wright map provided evidence for the construct validity of STAT measures. The reliability of the instrument was moderate. Wald test for item measure invariance of individual items showed that among sixteen items seven items were variant in measures. The Anderson LR test indicates that the Rasch difficulty measures of STAT were not adequate for invariance. There was no DIF between two subsamples based on gender, suggesting fairness of the instrument in terms of gender. The above results suggest that STAT possesses certain degrees of validity, reliability, and fairness, although there is still room for further improvement.

Abstract Halorhodopsin, a light-driven chloride pump, utilizes photonic energy to drive chloride ions across biological membranes, regulating the ion balance and conveying biological information. In the light-driven chloride pump process, the chloride-binding chromophore (protonated Schiff base) is crucial, able to form the active center by absorbing light and triggering the transport cycle. Inspired by halorhodopsin, we demonstrate an artificial light-driven chloride pump using a helical porphyrin channel array with excellent photoactivity and specific chloride selectivity. The helical porphyrin channels are formed by a porphyrin-core star block copolymer, and the defects along the channels can be effectively repaired by doping a small number of porphyrins. The well-repaired porphyrin channel exhibits the light-driven Cl− migration against a 3-fold concentration gradient, showing the ion pumping behavior. The bio-inspired artificial light-driven chloride pump provides a prospect for designing bioinspired responsive ion channel systems and high-performance optogenetics.

The escalating threat of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and fungi underscores an urgent need for new antimicrobial agents. This study aimed to synthesize and evaluate the antimicrobial activities of two series of 3-alkylidene-2-indolone derivatives. We synthesized 32 target compounds, among which 25 exhibited moderate to high antibacterial or antifungal activities. Notably, compounds 10f, 10g, and 10h demonstrated the highest antibacterial activity with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 0.5 μg/mL, matching the activity of the positive control gatifloxacin against three Gram-positive bacterial strains: Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538, 4220, and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 43300. Moreover, the three most active compounds 10f, 10g, and 10h were evaluated for their in vitro cytotoxicity in the HepG2 cancer cell line and L-02; only compound 10h was found to exert some level of cytotoxicity. These findings suggest that the synthesized 3-alkylidene-2-indolone derivatives hold potential for further development as antibacterial agents.

The On-Load Tap Changer (OLTC) is the only movable mechanical component in a converter transformer. To ensure the reliable operation of the OLTC and to promptly detect mechanical faults in OLTCs to prevent them from developing into electrical faults, this paper proposes a fault diagnosis method for OLTCs based on a combination of Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm and Least Squares Support Vector Machine (LSSVM) with multi-feature fusion. Firstly, a multi-feature extraction method based on time/frequency domain statistics, synchrosqueezed wavelet transform, singular value decomposition, and multi-scale modal decomposition is proposed. Meanwhile, the random forest algorithm is used to screen features to eliminate the influence of redundant features on the accuracy of fault diagnosis. Secondly, the PSO algorithm is introduced to optimize the hyperparameters of LSSVM to obtain optimal parameters, thereby constructing an optimal LSSVM fault diagnosis model. Finally, different types of feature combinations are utilized for fault diagnosis, and the impact of these feature combinations on the fault diagnosis results is compared. Experimental results indicate that features of different types can complement each other, making the OLTC state information carried by multi-dimensional features more comprehensive, which helps to improve the accuracy of fault diagnosis. Compared with four traditional fault diagnosis methods, the proposed method performs better in fault diagnosis accuracy, achieving the highest accuracy of 98.58%, which can help to detect mechanical faults in the OLTC early and reduce the system’s downtime.