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Objective Increasing breast meat production is one of the primary goals of the broiler industry. Over the past few decades, tremendous progress has been made in genetic selection and the identification of candidate genes for improving the breast muscle mass. However, the molecular network contributing to muscle production traits in chickens still needs to be further illuminated. Methods A total of 150 1-day-old male 817 broilers were reared in a floor litter system. At the market age of 50 d, eighteen healthy 817 broilers were slaughtered and the left pectoralis major muscle sample from each bird was collected for RNA-seq sequencing. The birds were then plucked and eviscerated and the whole breast muscle was removed and weighed. Breast muscle yield was calculated as the ratio of the breast muscle weight to the eviscerated weight. To identify the co-expression networks and hub genes contributing to breast muscle yield in chickens, we performed weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) based on the 18 transcriptome datasets of pectoralis major muscle from eighteen 817 broilers. Results The WGCNA analysis classified all co-expressed genes in the pectoral muscle of 817 broilers into 44 modules. Among these modules, the turquoise and skyblue3 modules were found to be most significantly positively (r = 0.78, p = 1e–04) and negatively (r = −0.57, p = 0.01) associated with breast meat yield, respectively. Further analysis identified several hub genes (e.g., DLX3, SH3RF2, TPM1, CAV3, MYF6, and CFL2) that involved in muscle structure and muscle development were identified as potential regulators of breast meat production. Conclusion The present study has advanced our understanding of the molecular regulatory networks contributing to muscle growth and breast muscle production and will contribute to the molecular breeding of chickens in the future.

Background The phenomenon of coronary slow flow (CSF) is characterized by recurrent angina pectoris, which may lead to acute myocardial infarction, fatal arrhythmia and sudden cardiac death, and reduce the quality of life of patients. With the improvement of the safety, feasibility and reliability of coronary angiography (CAG), the detection rate of CSF increased gradually. However, there are few studies on the mechanism of early-onset CSF and clinical characteristics of young patients with CSF. Objective To explore the clinical characteristics in young patients with CSF and compare them with the elderly patients in order to provide its pathogenesis. Methods Continuity analysis from January 2017 to January 2019, 86 young patients (18 years ≤ age

By establishing the characterization model of variable sectional area distributions, a cascade design method of torque converter based on variable sectional area distribution is proposed. Additionally, the corresponding collaborative design method for multi-impeller turbomachinery is proposed and further studied. The design cases of the impellers with different sectional area distributions are constructed through the response surface method, and the corresponding hydrodynamic characteristics are further compared and explored. However, the design of different impeller sectional area distributions for the optimal performance of the whole turbomachinery requires the collaborative design of each component’s distribution results rather than a simple combination of such optimal impeller’s area distribution result. Thus a collaborative design strategy is proposed, which can improve the pump’s capacity performance by 8.83%, the maximum torque ratio performance can also increased by 6.33%, which proves that such a collaborative design method is an effective optimization design approach to improve the performance of the torque converter without altering the overall dimension. The experimental results of the optimal prototype show that the torque ratio reaches 5.33% higher than the original value, which indicates that such a collaborative optimization method for multi-impeller turbomachinery is effective and reliable.

Abstract Background To establish the pathological diagnosis of UTUC before treatment is profitable. At present, the conventional pathological diagnostic methods have certain problems. Besides, the urine-based DNA methylation test have been already utilized to detect bladder cancer. Objective To evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of DNA methylation plus 17 genes mutation test and compare the combined test with cytology. Materials and methods We included 45 patients from April 2019 to May 2022, all of whom underwent radical nephroureterectomy (RNU), nephrectomy, diagnostic ureteroscopy or tissue biopsy. Before surgery, the urine samples were collected for DNA methylation plus 17 genes mutation test and cytology. The test performance was calculated, and comparative ROC curves were drawn. Results The median age of the patients was 67 years. The Kappa value of the DNA methylation plus 17 genes mutation test and tissue pathology was 0.59 (p

Abstract The rapid variation of influenza challenges vaccines and treatments, which makes an urgent task to develop the high-efficiency and low-toxicity new anti-influenza virus drugs. Selenium is one of the essential trace elements for the human body that possesses a good antiviral activity. In this study, we assessed anti-influenza A virus (H1N1) activity of polyethylene glycol (PEG)-modified gray selenium nanoparticles (PEG-SeNPs) on Madin-Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) cells in vitro. CCK-8 assay showed that PEG-SeNPs had a protective effect on H1N1-infected MDCK cells. Moreover, PEG-SeNPs significantly reduced the mRNA level of H1N1. TUNEL-DAPI test showed that DNA damage reached a high level but effectively prevented after PEG-SeNPs treatment. Meanwhile, JC-1, Annexin V-FITC and cell cycle assay demonstrated the apoptosis induced by H1N1 was reduced greatly when treated with PEG-SeNPs. Furthermore, the downregulation of p-ATM, p-ATR and P53 protein, along with the upregualation of AKT protein indicated that PEG-SeNPs could inhibit H1N1-induced cell apoptosis through reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated related signaling pathways. Finally, Cytokine detection demonstrated PEG-SeNPs inhibited the production of pro-inflammatory factors after infection, including IL-1β, IL-5, IL-6, and TNF-α. To sum up, PEG-SeNPs might become a new potential anti-H1N1 influenza virus drug due to its antiviral and anti-inflammatory activity.

Abstract Revealing the heterogeneity among tissues is the greatest advantage of single-cell-sequencing. Marker genes not only act as the key to correctly identify cell types, but also the bio-markers for cell-status under certain experimental imputations. Current analysis methods such as Seurat and Monocle employ algorithms which compares one cluster to all the rest and select markers according to statistical tests. This pattern brings redundant calculations and thus, results in low calculation efficiency, specificity and accuracy. To address these issues, we introduce starTracer, a novel algorithm designed to enhance the efficiency, specificity and accuracy of marker gene identification in single-cell RNA-seq data analysis. starTracer operates as an independent pipeline, which exhibits great flexibility by accepting multiple input file types. The primary output is a marker matrix, where genes are sorted by the potential to function as markers, with those exhibiting the greatest potential positioned at the top. The speed improvement ranges by 2 ~ 3 orders of magnitude compared to Seurat, as observed across three independent datasets with lower false positive rate as observed in a simulated testing dataset with ground-truth. It’s worth noting that starTracer exhibits increasing speed improvement with larger data volumes. It also excels in identifying markers in smaller clusters. These advantages solidify starTracer as an important tool for single-cell RNA-seq data, merging robust accuracy with exceptional speed.

The increase in extreme precipitation (EP) may pose a serious threat to the health and safety of population in arid and semi-arid regions. The current research on the impact of EP on population in Central Asia (CA) is insufficient and there is an urgent need for a comprehensive assessment. Hence, we opted for precipitation and temperature data under two Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSP2–4.5 and SSP5–8.5) from ten Global Climate Models (GCMs), which were obtained from the NASA Earth Exchange Global Daily Downscaled Projections (NEX-GDDP-CMIP6). By integrating population data in 2020 and 2050 (SSP2 and SSP5), we investigated the future changes in EP and population exposure in CA under 1.5 °C and 2 °C global warming scenarios (GWSs). Our analysis indicates that EP in CA is projected to increase with global warming. Under the SSP5–8.5, the maximum daily precipitation (Rx1day) exhibits an average response rate to global warming of 3.58 %/K (1.99–4.06 %/K). With rising temperatures, an increasing number of areas and populations in CA will be impacted by EP, especially in the Fergana valley. Approximately 25% of the population (land area) in CA is exposed to Rx1day with increases of more than 8.31% (9.32%) under 1.5 °C GWS and 14.18% (13.25%) under 2 °C GWS. Controlling temperature rise can be effective in reducing population exposures to EP. For instance, limiting the temperature increase to 1.5 °C instead of 2 °C results in a 2.79% (1.75%–4.59%) reduction in population exposure to Rx1day. Finally, we found that climate change serves as the predominant factor influencing the population exposure to EP, while the role of population redistribution, although relatively minor, should not be disregarded. Particularly for prolonged drought, the role of population redistribution manifests negatively.

Abstract Despite the importance of radiation therapy as a non-surgical treatment for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), radiation resistance has always been a concern, due to poor patient response and prognosis. Therefore, it is crucial to uncover novel targets to enhance radiotherapy and investigate the mechanisms underlying radiation resistance. Previously, we demonstrated that NRP1 was connected to radiation resistance in NSCLC cells. In the present study, bioinformatics analysis of constructed radiation-resistant A549 and H1299 cell models revealed that transcription coactivator YAP is a significant factor in cell proliferation and metastasis. However, there has been no evidence linking YAP and NRP1 to date. In this research, we have observed that YAP contributes to radiation resistance in NSCLC cells by stimulating cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Mechanistically, YAP dephosphorylation after NSCLC cell radiation. YAP acts as a transcription co-activator by binding to the transcription factor TEAD4, facilitating TEAD4 to bind to the NRP1 promoter region and thereby increasing NRP1 expression. NRP1 has been identified as a new target gene for YAP/TEAD4. Notably, when inhibiting YAP binds to TEAD4, it inhibits NRP1 expression, and Rescue experiments show that YAP/TEAD4 influences NRP1 to regulate cell proliferation, metastasis and leading to radiation resistance generation. According to these results, YAP/TEAD4/NRP1 is a significant mechanism for radioresistance and can be utilized as a target for enhancing radiotherapy efficacy.

Abstract Background This study aimed to investigate the cognitive and affective factors associated with cross-cultural differences in arithmetic tasks. Methods A total of 404 third- and fourth- graders were recruited from China and Italy to complete exact arithmetic, arithmetic estimation and cognitive tasks (i.e., short-term memory, executive functions, and fluid reasoning). Their mathematical anxiety was also measured. Results The results showed that Chinese children performed better than Italian children in both arithmetic tasks and in shifting task. Italian children performed better in visuospatial updating task and reported higher levels of mathematical anxiety than their Chinese peers. Multi-group path analyses showed that the patterns of relations among cognitive factors (i.e., short-term memory, inhibition and shifting), mathematical anxiety, and arithmetic performance were similar across groups. The only exception was that visuospatial updating uniquely predicted arithmetic estimation for Chinese but not for Italian children. Conclusions Chinese children outperformed their Italian peers in the exact arithmetic task, likely due to the greater emphasis on arithmetic fluency in Chinese mathematics education, both in schools and at home. They also had a slight advantage than Italian peers in the arithmetic estimation task. The unique link between updating and arithmetic estimation found in Chinese children but not Italian children suggests that, although arithmetic estimation is not emphasized in the curricula of either country, instruction and practice in exact arithmetic may enhance Chinese children’s efficiency in solving arithmetic estimation problems.

A M3.1 earthquake occurred in Qingpu District of Shanghai at 1:39 on June 15，2023. The Shanghai Earthquake Early Warning Network successfully received the earthquake early warning information released by the China Earthquake Early Warning Network，and the locally deployed Fujian Early Warning System EEW also successfully processed and produced the earthquake early warning results. In this paper，the results of 7 earthquake early warnings produced by Shanghai Earthquake Early Warning System and the earthquake early warning information released by China Earthquake Early Warning Network are compared and analyzed. The epicenter of the earthquake is located in the Shanghai Earthquake Early Warning Network. The first early warning information was released at 6.8 s after the earthquake. All 7 early warning processing results were produced within 15 s after the earthquake. Compared with the official earthquake catalogue，the first early warning processing result has an epicentral position deviation of 5 km and a magnitude deviation of −0.1. With the increase of the number of early warning stations involved in the calculation，the epicenter position is finally consistent with the official catalogue，and the magnitude deviation is also maintained at 0.5. The results of this earthquake early warning show that although Shanghai and its surrounding areas belong to the general early warning area with small and micro earthquakes as the main seismic activities，due to the large density of early warning stations，more accurate early warning processing results can also be produced in a short time after the earthquake，which is of great reference significance for the ongoing integration of monitoring and early warning business in the Yangtze River Delta.

In this study, three insect-resistant transgenic Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) oilseed rape events (GT1, GT5 and GT9) under field conditions were utilised to analyse the dynamics of Cry1Ac protein and the changes in soil enzyme activities in the rhizosphere soil of transgenic Bt plants during different growth stages over two successive cultivation years. The results indicated that compared to the non-transgenic control plant cv. Westar, the amount of Cry1Ac protein in the rhizosphere soil of the three transgenic oilseed rape events was significantly higher during the flowering and podding stages in the first cultivation year. Additionally, in the second cultivation year, transgenic GT1 and GT9 had significantly higher amounts of Cry1Ac protein in the rhizosphere soil during the flowering stage, and all three transgenic oilseed rape events had significantly higher amounts of Cry1Ac protein in the rhizosphere soil during the podding stage. Over the two successive cultivation years, the sucrase activity in the rhizosphere soil of transgenic events showed significant changes during bolting, flowering and podding stages, while all three transgenic events exhibited significant changes in phosphatase activity during the four different stages. Furthermore, different transgenic events showed varying significant changes in urease and protease activities during the bolting, flowering and podding stages of the first year, and all three transgenic events had significant changes in dehydrogenase activities during the four different stages of the second cultivation year. PCA and correlation analysis clearly demonstrated a strong correlation between the Cry1Ac protein and five soil enzyme activities, as well as a close interconnectedness among those five soil enzyme activities. These findings suggest that the amount of insecticidal crystal proteins in the rhizosphere soil of transgenic Bt (Cry1Ac) oilseed rape varies with different growth periods, and the enzyme activities in the rhizosphere soil of transgenic Bt oilseed rape plants undergo significant changes over two successive planting years.

Abstract Intracranial aneurysm is the primary cause of nontraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage. To assess aneurysm metabolism, we present a method of intra-operatively collecting blood samples from the aneurysm neck, as well as the proximal and distal responsible vessels, using microcatheters. Through these paired comparisons, we can eliminate the interpatient variation usually observed in plasma samples taken from the peripheral vein. We utilized 39 plasma samples from 13 intracranial patients to characterize the metabolite profiles using untargeted liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Our findings revealed that l-tyrosine is upregulated at relatively high levels at the aneurysm neck than the proximal and distal aneurysm, whereas phenylpyruvic acid, l-cystine, and l-ornithine are downregulated. Based on this, there was also a significant decrease in arginine within small aneurysm of the internal carotid artery. The 6-month follow-up indicated that patients who experienced good recovery had lower levels of biliverdin, bilirubin, and metabolites of coenzyme Q within the aneurysm. In conclusion, our investigation provides a comprehensive overview of plasma metabolites in patients with intracranial aneurysms, shedding light on potential pathogenetic mechanisms in unruptured intracranial aneurysms. Moreover, the study proposes innovative ideas for establishing postoperative follow-up timelines for flow diverter devices.

Abstract Background With the development of Internet information technology, especially the impact of the sudden outbreak of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 epidemic, along with the call for “classes suspended but learning continues,” a large number of medical educators have learned and experienced online teaching. They have understood the shortcomings of traditional teaching methods. Not only the blended BOPPPS teaching mode combines the advantages of the BOPPPS teaching mode but also the online teaching platform breaks through the limitation of time and space. However, a general consensus on the effectiveness of the blended BOPPPS teaching strategy in China is lacking, and few studies use quantitative synthesis to evaluate the effectiveness of this teaching strategy. Hence, this study aimed to assess the overall effectiveness of online and offline blended BOPPPS teaching strategies in higher medical education in China compared with the lecture-based learning (LBL) teaching model. Methods Studies that blended learning with the BOPPPS model in China from January 2000 to October 2023 were searched in the Chinese and English-language online databases. We analyzed the objective and subjective scores of students and performed subgroup analysis for specialties and online teaching platforms. The data were analyzed using the Stata version 14.0 software. The quality assessment was performed using the Jadad scoring scale. Results Forty-four studies were included in this meta-analysis. Compared with the LBL mode, the blended the BOPPPS teaching mode was more effective in terms of the overall capacity [standardized mean difference (SMD) = 1.193, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.813–1.572], mastery of medical theory knowledge (SMD = 1.090, 95% CI: 0.730–1.450), and practical skills (SMD = 1.246, 95% CI: 0.799–1.693). The analyzed questionnaire surveys indicated the positive effects of the blended BOPPPS teaching mode on classroom satisfaction, autonomous learning ability, learning interest, teamwork ability, interpersonal skills, ability to analyze and solve problems, group interaction, learning engagement, and learning strategies. Conclusions The study underscored that the blended BOPPPS teaching mode could effectively improve the comprehensive quality of students. The subjective scores also indicated that students generally preferred this novel teaching mode.

Abstract Background Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) is a crucial stage in the progression of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease(NAFLD). The purpose of this study is to explore the clinical value of ultrasound features and radiological analysis in predicting the diagnosis of Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis. Method An SD rat model of hepatic steatosis was established through a high-fat diet and subcutaneous injection of CCl4. Liver ultrasound images and elastography were acquired, along with serum data and histopathological results of rat livers.The Pyradiomics software was used to extract radiomic features from 2D ultrasound images of rat livers. The rats were then randomly divided into a training set and a validation set, and feature selection was performed through dimensionality reduction. Various machine learning (ML) algorithms were employed to build clinical diagnostic models, radiomic models, and combined diagnostic models. The efficiency of each diagnostic model for diagnosing NASH was evaluated using Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves, Clinical Decision Curve Analysis (DCA), and calibration curves. Results In the machine learning radiomic model for predicting the diagnosis of NASH, the Area Under the Curve (AUC) of ROC curve for the clinical radiomic model in the training set and validation set were 0.989 and 0.885, respectively. The Decision Curve Analysis revealed that the clinical radiomic model had the highest net benefit within the probability threshold range of > 65%. The calibration curve in the validation set demonstrated that the clinical combined radiomic model is the optimal method for diagnosing Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis. Conclusion The combined diagnostic model constructed using machine learning algorithms based on ultrasound image radiomics has a high clinical predictive performance in diagnosing Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis.

Abstract Vigilance represents an ability to sustain prolonged attention and plays a crucial role in ensuring the reliability and optimal performance of various tasks. In this report, we describe a MultiModal Vigilance (MMV) dataset comprising seven physiological signals acquired during two Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) tasks. The BCI tasks encompass a rapid serial visual presentation (RSVP)-based target image retrieval task and a steady-state visual evoked potential (SSVEP)-based cursor-control task. The MMV dataset includes four sessions of seven physiological signals for 18 subjects, which encompasses electroencephalogram(EEG), electrooculogram (EOG), electrocardiogram (ECG), photoplethysmogram (PPG), electrodermal activity (EDA), electromyogram (EMG), and eye movement. The MMV dataset provides data from four stages: 1) raw data, 2) pre-processed data, 3) trial data, and 4) feature data that can be directly used for vigilance estimation. We believe this dataset will achieve flexible reuse and meet the various needs of researchers. And this dataset will greatly contribute to advancing research on physiological signal-based vigilance research and estimation.

Abstract Background The SET domain group (SDG) genes encode histone lysine methyltransferases, which regulate gene transcription by altering chromatin structure and play pivotal roles in plant flowering determination. However, few studies have investigated their role in the regulation of flowering in upland cotton. Results A total of 86 SDG genes were identified through genome-wide analysis in upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum). These genes were unevenly distributed across 25 chromosomes. Cluster analysis revealed that the 86 GhSDGs were divided into seven main branches. RNA-seq data and qRT‒PCR analysis revealed that lysine methyltransferase 3 (KMT3) genes were expressed at high levels in stamens, pistils and other floral organs. Using virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS), functional characterization of GhKMT3;1a and GhKMT3;2a revealed that, compared with those of the controls, the GhKMT3;1a- and GhKMT3;2a-silenced plants exhibited later budding and flowering and lower plant heightwere shorter. In addition, the expression of flowering-related genes (GhAP1, GhSOC1 and GhFT) significantly decreased and the expression level of GhSVP significantly increased in the GhKMT3;1a- and GhKMT3;2a-silenced plants compared with the control plants. Conclusion A total of 86 SDG genes were identified in upland cotton, among which GhKMT3;1a and GhKMT3;2a might regulate flowering by affecting the expression of GhAP1, GhSOC1, GhFT and GhSVP. These findings will provide genetic resources for advanced molecular breeding in the future.

Abstract Colonial cities in Asia and Africa, developed under the dual influence of native and sovereign cultures during the colonial era, exhibit unique urban morphological characteristics and reflect the planning ideologies of diverse cultures. Thus, the morphological study of colonial cities in Asia and Africa is crucial for understanding and identifying the historical and cultural value of these cities, which in turn enables the formulation of precise conservation strategies. In light of this, the study develops an urban morphological analysis methodology comprising "Colonial Background Analysis—Morphological Characteristics Analysis—Driving Factor Extraction" based on the Conzenian Approach, which is used to examine the morphology of 21 typical colonial cities in Asia and Africa across various colonial periods. As a result, "Dual-City" emerges as the core spatial characteristic of colonial cities in Asia and Africa, reflecting the morphological differences in road layouts, urban fabric, and urban cores between native and European zones. Additionally, as native settlement sizes, social structures, and cultural identities differ between cities, three major spatial patterns of the "Dual-City" model can be identified: separated, mediated, and integrated spatial patterns, resulting from the varied planning approaches applied by colonizers. Furthermore, suggestions for the conservation of colonial heritage are proposed based on the driving factors analysis from the morphological study.

Abstract Gliomas represent the most predominant primary malignant tumor in central nervous system. Thymine DNA glycosylase (TDG) is a central component in active DNA demethylation. However, the specific mechanisms of TDG-mediated active DNA demethylation in gliomas remain unclear. This research indicates TDG expression is overexpressed in gliomas and correlated with poor prognosis. TDG knockdown suppressed the malignant phenotype of gliomas both in vitro and vivo. Notably, RNA-seq analysis revealed a strong association between TDG and tenascin-C (TNC). ChIP-qPCR and MeDIP-qPCR assays were undertaken to confirm that TDG participates in TNC active DNA demethylation process, revealing decreased DNA methylation levels and elevated TNC expression as a result. Silencing TNC expression also suppressed the tumor malignant phenotype in both in vitro and in vivo experiments. Additionally, simultaneous silencing of TNC reduced or even reversed the glioma promotion caused by TDG overexpression. Based on our findings, we conclude that TDG exerts an indispensable role in TNC active DNA demethylation in gliomas. The DNA demethylation process leads to alternations in TNC methylation levels and promotes its expression, thereby contributing to the development of gliomas. These results suggest a novel epigenetic therapeutic strategy targeting active DNA demethylation in gliomas.

Myopia is becoming more and more common all over the world, and the incidence of myopia is gradually increasing. Many treatments have been used to prevent and control myopia, including optics, drugs, environment or behavior, but the results are different and lack standardization. At present, many experiments have proved that peripheral defocus technology has a certain effect on myopia control. Based on this technology, three kinds of framed eyeglass lenses with peripheral defocus design, namely defocus incorporated multiple segments(DIMS), highly aspherical lenslets(HAL)and cylindrical annular reactive elements(CARE), are commonly used in medical and optometry institutions in China. These lenses provide not only clear vision in the central area, but also a certain amount of myopic defocus in the periphery to control the progression of myopia. This paper aims to focus on the design principle and myopia prevention and control effect of the above three peripheral defocus lenses, and evaluate their effectiveness in clinical practice.

Objectives: Combination therapy of lenvatinib and immune checkpoint inhibitors (CLICI) has emerged as a promising approach for managing unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the response to such treatment is observed in only a subset of patients, underscoring the pressing need for reliable methods to identify potential responders. Materials & methods: This was a retrospective analysis involving 120 patients with unresectable HCC. They were divided into training (n = 72) and validation (n = 48) cohorts. We developed an interpretable deep learning model using multiphase computed tomography (CT) images to predict whether patients will respond or not to CLICI treatment, based on the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors, version 1.1 (RECIST v1.1). We evaluated the models' performance and analyzed the impact of each CT phase. Critical regions influencing predictions were identified and visualized through heatmaps. Results: The multiphase model outperformed the best biphase and uniphase models, achieving an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.802 (95% CI = 0.780–0.824). The portal phase images were found to significantly enhance the model's predictive accuracy. Heatmaps identified six critical features influencing treatment response, offering valuable insights to clinicians. Additionally, we have made this model accessible via a web server at http://uhccnet.com/ for ease of use. Conclusions: The integration of multiphase CT images with deep learning-generated heatmaps for predicting treatment response provides a robust and practical tool for guiding CLICI therapy in patients with unresectable HCC.

Abstract Background Lung adenocarcinoma is a high-mortality rate cancer. Within this category, Lung mucinous adenocarcinoma (LMAC) is a rare and distinct subtype of lung adenocarcinoma necessitating further investigation. The study was launched to compare the difference of survival features between LMAC and lung non-mucinous adenocarcinoma (LNMAC) and to investigate the significance and demand for developing a new staging system tailored to LMAC. Methods This retrospective study assessed the suitableness of the current staging system for LMAC. It compared the overall survival (OS) between LMAC and LNMAC from 2004 to 2020 (LNMAC: 160,387; LMAC: 6,341) and instituted a novel classification framework for LMAC based on US population. Verification group consisting of patients from two Chinese medical centers from 2010 to 2018 (n = 392) was set to ascertain the applicability of this novel system. The primary endpoint was OS. To minimize the bias, propensity score match (PSM) was employed. Survival analysis and Log-rank test were executed to explore the survival features of LMAC. Results The results indicated that the existed staging system was not suitable for LMAC. Patients diagnosed with LMAC exhibited a superior OS compared to those with LNMAC in stage IA2 (P

Abstract As a stress hormone existing in the human body, cortisol can reflect the psychological stress and health status in daily life, and is a potential biomarker of the body’s stress response. To effectively collect sweat and accurately identify the target, this paper reports a flexible wearable cortisol detection device with outstanding reliability and sensitivity. Molecular imprinted polymer (MIP) ensures cortisol specificity. And carbon nanotubes (CNT) on electrodes increase sensitivity, expanding the detection range to 10−3 to 104 nM, with sensitivity at 189.2 nA/lg(nM). In addition, porous chitosan hydrogel (PCSH) collects sweat effectively, its adhesive properties and 80% swelling rate offer a low-cost alternative to microfluidics. Flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) and serpentine electrode (SE) ensure device durability. This non-invasive, highly sensitive device offers a novel method for mental stress monitoring and clinical diagnosis, advancing human physiological state monitoring.

Abstract Diabetes accelerates vascular senescence, which is the basis for atherosclerosis and stiffness. The activation of NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome and oxidative stress are closely associated with the deteriorative senescence in endothelial cells (ECs) and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). For decades, Sodium Tanshinone IIA Sulfonate (STS) has been utilized as a cardiovascular medicine with acknowledged anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties. Nevertheless, the impact of STS on vascular senescence remains unexplored in diabetes. Diabetic mice, primary ECs and VSMCs were transfected with the NLRP3 overexpression/knockout plasmid, the tumor necrosis factor alpha-induced protein 3 (TNFAIP3/A20) overexpression/knockout plasmid, and treated with STS to detect senescence-associated markers. In diabetic mice, STS treatment maintained catalase (CAT) level and vascular relaxation, reduced hydrogen peroxide probe (ROSgreen) fluorescence, p21 immunofluorescence, Senescence β-Galactosidase Staining (SA-β-gal) staining area, and collagen deposition in aortas. Mechanistically, STS inhibited NLRP3 phosphorylation (serine 194), NLRP3 dimer formation, NLRP3 expression, and NLRP3-PYCARD (ASC) colocalization. It also suppressed the phosphorylation of IkappaB alpha (IκBα) and NFκB, preserved A20 and CAT levels, reduced ROSgreen density, and decreased the expression of p21 and SA-β-gal staining in ECs and VSMCs under HG culture. Our findings indicate that STS mitigates vascular senescence by modulating the A20-NFκB-NLRP3 inflammasome-CAT pathway in hyperglycemia conditions, offering novel insights into NLRP3 inflammasome activation and ECs and VSMCs senescence under HG culture. This study highlights the potential mechanism of STS in alleviating senescence in diabetic blood vessels, and provides essential evidence for its future clinical application.

Abstract Quasi-two-dimensional (Q-2D) perovskite exhibits exceptional photoelectric properties and demonstrates reduced ion migration compared to 3D perovskite, making it a promising material for the fabrication of highly sensitive and stable X-ray detectors. However, achieving high-quality perovskite films with sufficient thickness for efficient X-ray absorption remains challenging. Herein, we present a novel approach to regulate the growth of Q-2D perovskite crystals in a mixed atmosphere comprising methylamine (CH3NH2, MA) and ammonia (NH3), resulting in the successful fabrication of high-quality films with a thickness of hundreds of micrometers. Subsequently, we build a heterojunction X-ray detector by incorporating the perovskite layer with titanium dioxide (TiO2). The precise regulation of perovskite crystal growth and the meticulous design of the device structure synergistically enhance the resistivity and carrier transport properties of the X-ray detector, resulting in an ultrahigh sensitivity (29721.4 μC Gyair −1 cm−2) for low-dimensional perovskite X-ray detectors and a low detection limit of 20.9 nGyair s−1. We have further demonstrated a flat panel X-ray imager (FPXI) showing a high spatial resolution of 3.6 lp mm−1 and outstanding X-ray imaging capability under low X-ray doses. This work presents an effective methodology for achieving high-performance Q-2D perovskite FPXIs that holds great promise for various applications in imaging technology.

Objective: This study aimed to explore the determinants influencing training transfer and evaluate how those factors change over time among nurses who graduated from clinical nurse specialist training to provide a theoretical basis for improving the training transfer of clinical nurse specialists (CNSs). Methods: A quantitative longitudinal survey with four rounds of data collection was utilized to measure the influencing aspects of training transfer from June 2018 to December 2019. A total of 46 new CNSs participated in this study, including 30 and 16 nurses receiving training programs for CNSs in Infusion, Wound and Ostomy. The factor influencing training transfer (FITT) questionnaire was used to collect data for the first month (time 1), the third month (time 2), the sixth month (time 3), and the first year (time 4) after training. This questionnaire contains 53 items divided into five dimensions, including managerial support (20 items); hindrance in the organization (6 items); the validity of the training program (10 items); organizational and personal facilitators (11 items); and personal attitudes towards training transfer (6 items). Results: The influencing factors of CNSs transfer decreased over time, with managerial support, hindrance in the organization, the validity of the training program, and personal attitudes towards training transfer changing statistically over time (P

Abstract Background Immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as anti-programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) and PD-1 ligand-1 (PD-L1) antibodies, have achieved breakthrough results in improving long-term survival rates in lung cancer. Although high levels of PD-L1 expression and tumor mutational burden have emerged as pivotal biomarkers, not all patients derive lasting benefits, and resistance to immune checkpoint blockade remains a prevalent issue. Comprehending the immunological intricacies of lung cancer is crucial for uncovering the mechanisms that govern responses and resistance to immunomodulatory treatments. This study aimed to explore the potential of peripheral immune markers in predicting treatment efficiency among lung cancer patients undergoing PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitors. Methods This study enrolled 71 lung cancer patients undergoing PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor therapy and 20 healthy controls. Immune cell subsets (CD4 + T cells, CD8 + T cells, B cells, NK cells, and NKT cells), phenotypic analysis of T cells and B cells, and PMA/Ionomycin-stimulated lymphocyte function assay were conducted. Results Lung cancer patients exhibited significant alterations in immune cell subsets, notably an increased percentage of Treg cells. Post-treatment, there were substantial increases in absolute numbers of CD3 + T cells, CD8 + T cells, and NKT cells, along with heightened HLA-DR expression on CD3 + T and CD8 + T cells. Comparison between complete remission and non-complete remission (NCR) groups showed higher Treg cell percentages and HLA-DR + CD4 + T cells in the NCR group. Conclusion The study findings suggest potential predictive roles for immune cell subsets and phenotypes, particularly Treg cells, HLA-DR + CD4 + T cells, and naïve CD4 + T cells, in evaluating short-term PD-1/PD-L1 therapy efficacy for lung cancer patients. These insights offer valuable prospects for personalized treatment strategies and underscore the importance of immune profiling in lung cancer immunotherapy.

Abstract Synthesis of valuable chemicals from CO2 electroreduction in acidic media is highly desirable to overcome carbonation. However, suppressing the hydrogen evolution reaction in such proton-rich environments remains a considerable challenge. The current study demonstrates the use of a hollow fiber silver penetration electrode with hierarchical micro/nanostructures to enable CO2 reduction to CO in strong acids via balanced coordination of CO2 and K+/H+ supplies. Correspondingly, a CO faradaic efficiency of 95% is achieved at a partial current density as high as 4.3 A/cm2 in a pH = 1 solution of H2SO4 and KCl, sustaining 200 h of continuous electrolysis at a current density of 2 A/cm2 with over 85% single-pass conversion of CO2. The experimental results and density functional theory calculations suggest that the controllable CO2 feeding induced by the hollow fiber penetration configuration primarily coordinate the CO2/H+ balance on Ag active sites in strong acids, favoring CO2 activation and key intermediate *COOH formation, resulting in enhanced CO formation.

Abstract Although numerous ambient ionization mass spectroscopy technologies have been developed over the past 20 years to address diverse analytical circumstances, a single-ion source technique that can handle all analyte types is still lacking. Here, a wide-energy programmable microwave plasma-ionization mass spectrometry (WPMPI-MS) system is presented, through which MS analysis can achieve high coverage of substances with various characteristics by digitally regulating the microwave energy. In addition, ionization energy can be rapidly scanned using programmable waveforms, enabling the simultaneous detection of biomolecules, heavy metals, non-polar molecules, etc., in seconds. WPMPI-MS performs well in analyzing real samples, rapidly analyzing nine toxicological standards in one drop of serum, and demonstrating good quantification and liquid chromatography coupling capability. The WPMPI-MS has also been used to detect soil extracts, solid pharmaceuticals, and landfill leachate, further demonstrating its robust analytical capabilities for real samples. The prospective uses of the technology in biological and chemical analysis are extensive, and it is anticipated to emerge as a viable alternative to commercially available ion sources.

Abstract Ethylene regulates plant growth, development, and stress adaptation. However, the early signaling events following ethylene perception, particularly in the regulation of ethylene receptor/CTRs (CONSTITUTIVE TRIPLE RESPONSE) complex, remains less understood. Here, utilizing the rapid phospho-shift of rice OsCTR2 in response to ethylene as a sensitive readout for signal activation, we revealed that MHZ3, previously identified as a stabilizer of ETHYLENE INSENSITIVE 2 (OsEIN2), is crucial for maintaining OsCTR2 phosphorylation. Genetically, both functional MHZ3 and ethylene receptors prove essential for OsCTR2 phosphorylation. MHZ3 physically interacts with both subfamily I and II ethylene receptors, e.g., OsERS2 and OsETR2 respectively, stabilizing their association with OsCTR2 and thereby maintaining OsCTR2 activity. Ethylene treatment disrupts the interactions within the protein complex MHZ3/receptors/OsCTR2, reducing OsCTR2 phosphorylation and initiating downstream signaling. Our study unveils the dual role of MHZ3 in fine-tuning ethylene signaling activation, providing insights into the initial stages of the ethylene signaling cascade.

Abstract The worldwide occurrence of wind droughts challenges the balance of power systems between energy production and consumption. Expanding inter‐day energy storage serves as a strategic solution, yet optimizing its capacity depends on accurately modeling future renewable energy uncertainties to avoid over‐ or under‐investment. Existing approaches that use the historical extreme scenario set (HESS) to represent future conditions are contentious due to potential inadequacies in forecasting future extreme scenarios (ESs), including those on a decadal or centennial scale. This study addresses the issue by proposing an advanced energy storage expansion framework that leverages Extreme Value Theory (EVT) and a novel Deep Generative Model, namely the Diffusion Model. To model the extremes in a principled way, this work leverages EVT to establish a severity‐probability mapping for wind droughts, guiding the training process of the Diffusion Model. This model excels in generating ESs that accurately reflect the distribution of real‐world extremes, thereby significantly enhancing the predictive capacity of HESS. Case studies on a real‐world power system confirm the method's capacity to generate high‐quality ESs, encompassing the most severe historical wind droughts not included in the training dataset, thereby facilitating resilient energy storage expansion against unforeseen extremes.

Abstract Background Hyperlipidemia damages vascular wall and serves as a foundation for diseases such as atherosclerosis, hypertension and stiffness. The NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is implicated in vascular dysfunction associated with hyperlipidemia-induced vascular injury. Sodium tanshinone IIA sulfonate (STS), a well-established cardiovascular protective drug with recognized anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and vasodilatory properties, is yet to be thoroughly investigated for its impact on vascular relaxant imbalance induced by hyperlipidemia. Methods In this study, we treated ApoE-knockout (ApoE-/-) mouse with STS and assessed the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, expression of MMP2/9, integrity of elastic fibers, and vascular constriction and relaxation. Results Our findings reveal that STS intervention effectively preserves elastic fibers, significantly restores aortic relaxation function in ApoE-/- mice, and reduces their excessive constriction. Furthermore, STS inhibits the phosphorylation of spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK), suppresses NLRP3 inflammasome activation, and reduces MMP2/9 expression. Conclusions These results demonstrate that STS protects vascular relaxation against hyperlipidemia-induced damage through modulation of the SYK-NLRP3 inflammasome-MMP2/9 pathway. This research provides novel insights into the mechanisms underlying vascular relaxation impairment in a hyperlipidemic environment and uncovers a unique mechanism by which STS preserves vascular relaxation, offering valuable foundational research evidence for its clinical application in promoting vascular health.

Abstract Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is currently recognized as the primary carcinogenic pathogen associated with gastric tumorigenesis, and its high prevalence and resistance make it difficult to tackle. A graph neural network-based deep learning model, employing different training sets of 13,638 molecules for pre-training and fine-tuning, was aided in predicting and exploring novel molecules against H. pylori. A positively predicted novel berberine derivative 8 with 3,13-disubstituted alkene exhibited a potency against all tested drug-susceptible and resistant H. pylori strains with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 0.25–0.5 μg/mL. Pharmacokinetic studies demonstrated an ideal gastric retention of 8, with the stomach concentration significantly higher than its MIC at 24 h post dose. Oral administration of 8 and omeprazole (OPZ) showed a comparable gastric bacterial reduction (2.2-log reduction) to the triple-therapy, namely OPZ + amoxicillin (AMX) + clarithromycin (CLA) without obvious disturbance on the intestinal flora. A combination of OPZ, AMX, CLA, and 8 could further decrease the bacteria load (2.8-log reduction). More importantly, the mono-therapy of 8 exhibited comparable eradication to both triple-therapy (OPZ + AMX + CLA) and quadruple-therapy (OPZ + AMX + CLA + bismuth citrate) groups. SecA and BamD, playing a major role in outer membrane protein (OMP) transport and assembling, were identified and verified as the direct targets of 8 by employing the chemoproteomics technique. In summary, by targeting the relatively conserved OMPs transport and assembling system, 8 has the potential to be developed as a novel anti-H. pylori candidate, especially for the eradication of drug-resistant strains.

Abstract The outcomes of patients with sepsis are influenced by the contractile function of the right ventricle (RV), but the impact of cardiopulmonary interaction in ICU-mortality of sepsis patients remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the ICU-mortality impact of right ventricular-pulmonary artery (RV-PA) coupling in patients with sepsis. We employed echocardiography to assess patients with sepsis within the initial 24 h of their admission to the ICU. RV-PA coupling was evaluated using the tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) to pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) ratio. A total of 92 subjects were enrolled, with 55 survivors and 37 non-survivors. TAPSE/PASP ratio assessed mortality with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.766 (95% CI 0.670–0.862) and the optimal cutoff value was 0.495 mm/mmHg. We constructed a nomogram depicting the TAPSE/PASP in conjunction with IL-6 and Lac for the joint prediction of sepsis prognosis, and demonstrated the highest predictive capability (AUC = 0.878, 95% CI 0.809–0.948). In conclusion, the TAPSE/PASP ratio demonstrated prognostic value for ICU mortality in sepsis patients. The nomogram, which combines the TAPSE/PASP, IL-6, and LAC, demonstrated enhanced predictive efficacy for the prognosis of sepsis patients.

Abstract Background Tooth loss is a common problem that affects many people worldwide. Exploring knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) among patients can identify barriers and challenges in following recommended practices, providing valuable insights for dental healthcare providers, policymakers, and researchers. This study aimed to explore the KAP of patients with dental arch deficiencies regarding tooth loss and dentures. Methods This web-based, cross-sectional study was conducted among patients with dental arch deficiencies using a self-designed questionnaire. Result 3166 valid questionnaires were included. Participants’ mean KAP scores were 6.84 ± 2.27 (possible range: 0 ~ 12), 39.4 ± 3.72 (possible range: 9 ~ 45), and 27.7 ± 4.36 (possible range: 8 ~ 40), respectively. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that knowledge (OR = 1.383), employed (OR = 1.805), family history (OR = 2.158), and treatment (OR = 1.683) were independently associated with attitude. Moreover, knowledge (OR = 1.239), attitude (OR = 1.250), female (OR = 0.619), age (OR = 0.967), college/bachelor (OR = 0.373), and master and above degree (OR = 0.418), employed (OR = 0.554) or student (OR = 0.434), with 10,001–20,000 Yuan household income per month (OR = 0.492), have been married (OR = 0.609), smoking (OR = 0.595), drinking (OR = 0.397), disease duration (OR = 0.972), with family history (OR = 1.676), and with treatment (OR = 3.492) were independently associated with practice (all P

ABSTRACT: In this study, milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) ingredients enriched in polar lipids were prepared using membrane filtration, including microfiltration, diafiltration, and ultrafiltration from butter serum powder. Polar lipids (phospholipids, sterols, and gangliosides) in prepared MFGM ingredients were analyzed by 31P nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, GC-MS, and ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC)-MS/MS, respectively. The lipolysis degree and microstructure of MFGM ingredient and soybean lecithin (SL) emulsions during in vitro digestion were also analyzed. Microfiltration showed higher concentration efficiency than ultrafiltration, which increased by 2.16% and 2.73% in phospholipids, respectively. Moreover, diafiltration concentrated more polar lipids (6.39% of phospholipids) than microfiltration. Milk fat globule membrane ingredients had high levels of sphingomyelin (1.27%–1.36%) and ratio of GD3 to GM3 is 9.25- to 9.88-fold. The different lipolysis behaviors between MFGM ingredient emulsions and SL emulsions were correlated with their different polar lipid compositions. Phospholipids from both MFGM ingredients and SL could help maintain the initial structure during the gastric digestion. These results could provide a scientific basis for developing high-polar-lipids food, particularly infant formulas and special functional foods.

The deintercalation of weakly bonded A element affects the microstructure and properties of MAX phases and their reinforced composites. In this work, the effect of M-site element on the interaction of Al-containing M2AlC (M = V, Cr) phase and Ag, and the induced properties of Ag/M2AlC electrical contact materials (ECMs) were investigated. Though Ag and Al are soluble to each other and can form intermetallics, the variation of M element significantly affected the vacancy formation of Al, and thereby the interfacial reaction of Ag/M2AlC. The difficult formation of Al vacancy in V2AlC contributed to no obvious interfacial reaction in Ag/V2AlC. But the easy deintercalation of Al atoms in Cr2AlC led to their massive replacement by Ag, which generated Ag nano-twins and Cr3C2 with the same crystallographic relationship in one original Cr2AlC, and Cr7C3 and Ag3Al as well. Due to the distinct interactions, the resistivities of Ag/V2AlC and Ag/Cr2AlC increased by roughly 1 and 5 times after sintering, respectively. The low resistivity and proper hardness of the sintered Ag/V2AlC, which were very close to those of the “all-purpose” commercial Ag/CdO, contributed to its superior arc erosion resistance.

[Objective] The study was aimed to assess the accuracy of multi-source land use products in the loess hilly and gully regions. [Method] Using the Guanchuan River Basin, a secondary tributary of the Yellow River, as a case study, this research evaluated the accuracy of six land use products with spatial resolutions of 10 and 30 m (WorldCover 10 m, ESRI 10 m, GLC_FCS30-2020, GlobleLand30, CNLUCC, and CLCD). The evaluation was based on high-precision GCLUCC land use data and focused on four aspects: spatial distribution, area characteristics, sample point accuracy, and spatial consistency. The GCLUCC data, with a spatial resolution of 1 m and an overall accuracy exceeding 95%, was derived from GF-2 (0.8 m), DEM (5 m), 6 400 field sampling points, and 2 320 Google Earth sample points, using an object-oriented approach and manual visual interpretation. [Results] (1) In terms of classification features, most products could extract major land categories, but significant differences in extraction efficiency and accuracy were evident, especially in the spatial distribution of arable land, forest land, and construction land. (2) Regarding area consistency, significant variations were found between each product and GCLUCC in terms of area of different land categories. For instance, the grassland area in some products was more than double that of GCLUCC, while forest and water areas were only 0.13%~12.11% and 1.41%~11.27% of GCLUCC, respectively. (3) In terms of overall accuracy, GlobleLand30 and WorldCover 10 m showed relatively higher accuracy, with spatial map accuracy reaching 58.21% and 50.19%, respectively. In contrast, CLCD and CNLUCC had relatively lower accuracy, with significant classification confusion between forest and grassland, arable and grassland, and construction and arable land. (4) Significant spatial discrepancies existed between all products and the actual ground cover, particularly in the classification of trees, shrubs, bare land, and water bodies. [Conclusion] Current land use products face challenges in accurately characterizing surface cover features in the loess hilly and gully regions. Future product development should consider topographical and geographical features more thoroughly and enhance the identification of specific land use types. These results can provide a theoretical reference for ecological conservation and land resource information acquisition in the Loess Plateau.

Abstract Spotted fever group rickettsiae (SFGR) are obligate intracellular bacteria that cause spotted fever. The limitations of gene manipulation pose great challenges to studying the infection mechanisms of Rickettsia. By combining bioorthogonal metabolism and click chemistry, we developed a method to label R. heilongjiangensis via azide moieties and achieved rapid pathogen localization without complex procedures. Moreover, we constructed a C57BL/6 mice infection model by simulating tick bites and discovered that the stomach is the target organ of R. heilongjiangensis infection through in vivo imaging systems, which explained the occurrence of gastrointestinal symptoms following R. heilongjiangensis infection in some cases. This study offers a unique perspective for subsequent investigations into the pathogenic mechanisms of SFGR and identifies a potential target organ for R. heilongjiangensis.

Abstract Our research endeavors are directed towards unraveling the stem cell characteristics of lower-grade glioma patients, with the ultimate goal of formulating personalized treatment strategies. We computed enrichment stemness scores and performed consensus clustering to categorize phenotypes. Subsequently, we constructed a prognostic risk model using weighted gene correlation network analysis (WGCNA), random survival forest regression analysis as well as full subset regression analysis. To validate the expression differences of key genes, we employed experimental methods such as quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) and assessed cell line proliferation, migration, and invasion. Three subtypes were assigned to patients diagnosed with LGG. Notably, Cluster 2 (C2), exhibiting the poorest survival outcomes, manifested characteristics indicative of the subtype characterized by immunosuppression. This was marked by elevated levels of M1 macrophages, activated mast cells, along with higher immune and stromal scores. Four hub genes—CDCA8, ORC1, DLGAP5, and SMC4—were identified and validated through cell experiments and qPCR. Subsequently, these validated genes were utilized to construct a stemness risk signature. Which revealed that Lower-Grade Glioma (LGG) patients with lower scores were more inclined to demonstrate favorable responses to immune therapy. Our study illuminates the stemness characteristics of gliomas, which lays the foundation for developing therapeutic approaches targeting CSCs and enhancing the efficacy of current immunotherapies. By identifying the stemness subtype and its correlation with prognosis and TME patterns in glioma patients, we aim to advance the development of personalized treatments, enhancing the ability to predict and improve overall patient prognosis.

Abstract In recent years, many governments and companies have gradually launched robotaxi projects to help make transportation systems smarter, improve travel efficiency, and reduce travel costs. Robotaxi is a new mode of travel that replaces human driving with machines, freeing up social labour and enriching people’s travel choices. This study employs the Extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2) to understand the influencing factors of users’ adoption and usage of robotaxis in China to facilitate the broader integration of robotaxis into urban transportation systems. This study surveyed the preferences of 2048 respondents and analysed the data through structural equation modelling. The results indicate that performance expectancy, hedonic motivation, and price value are the factors influencing users’ behavioural intentions, while effort expectancy and social influence affect use behaviour. In contrast, habit is an important factor that affect both behavioural intention and actual use behaviour. Based on the findings, we have proposed practical strategies to improve robotaxi services and updated the UTAUT2 model in the context of robotaxi. We suggest that robotaxi operators can promote user acceptance and use by reducing the difficulty of use, improving the cost performance and the ride experience, and making appropriate publicity and guidance.

Abstract Background Abnormally expressed BCR/ABL protein serves as the basis for the development of chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML). The F-actin binding domain (FABD), which is a crucial region of the BCR/ABL fusion protein, is also located at the carboxyl end of the c-ABL protein and regulates the kinase activity of c-ABL. However, the precise function of this domain in BCR/ABL remains uncertain. Methods The FABD-deficient adenovirus vectors Ad-BCR/ABL△FABD, wild-type Ad-BCR/ABL and the control vector Adtrack were constructed, and 32D cells were infected with these adenoviruses separately. The effects of FABD deletion on the proliferation and apoptosis of 32D cells were evaluated by a CCK-8 assay, colony formation assay, flow cytometry and DAPI staining. The levels of phosphorylated BCR/ABL, p73, and their downstream signalling molecules were detected by western blot. The intracellular localization and interaction of BCR/ABL with the cytoskeleton-related protein F-actin were identified by immunofluorescence and co-IP. The effect of FABD deletion on BCR/ABL carcinogenesis in vivo was explored in CML-like mouse models. The degree of leukaemic cell infiltration was observed by Wright‒Giemsa staining and haematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining. Results We report that the loss of FABD weakened the proliferation-promoting ability of BCR/ABL, accompanied by the downregulation of BCR/ABL downstream signals. Moreover, the deletion of FABD resulted in a change in the localization of BCR/ABL from the cytoplasm to the nucleus, accompanied by an increase in cell apoptosis due to the upregulation of p73 and its downstream proapoptotic factors. Furthermore, we discovered that the absence of FABD alleviated leukaemic cell infiltration induced by BCR/ABL in mice. Conclusions These findings reveal that the deletion of FABD diminished the carcinogenic potential of BCR/ABL both in vitro and in vivo. This study provides further insight into the function of the FABD domain in BCR/ABL.

Abstract Various types of foreign fibres may be mixed in the planting, transportation, and production processes of cotton, which not only cause equipment to be out of control, but also leads to a decrease in the quality of cotton textile products and economic losses. The machine vision based detection method for cotton foreign fibres is widely used. Based on existing related research, we construct a classification dataset for cotton foreign fibres in practical scenarios, named the CF2113‐10 dataset. The authors design a basic foreign fibre classification network called CottonNet that balances performance and efficiency. The classification accuracy on the validation set reached 94.2%. In order to enhance the high‐level feature extraction ability, this paper improves the feature fusion method of residual networks and proposes CottonNet‐Res, which improves the classification accuracy to 95.1%. Finally, a classification model based on feature difference fitting, CottonNet‐Fusion, is proposed to address the classification problem of foreign fibre images sampled in complex environments. The classification accuracy of foreign fibre images sampled in ordinary scenes has improved to 97.4%, while the images sampled in complex environments maintain an accuracy of 90.3%.

In order to understand the types, biological characteristics, and metabolites types of pathogenic fungi in carambola, the typical diseased parts of carambola fruit were collected for fungal isolation by tissue isolation methods. The fungi were identified by morphological and molecular identification methods based on ITS sequencing analysis. The biological characteristics of pathogenic fungi were explored, and metabolites were isolated and purified using liquid chromatography. Their structures were established on the basis of 1H NMR and 13C NMR. The results were as follows: The four strains were identified as Fusarium equiseti, Neopestalotiopsis sp., Schizophyllum commune and Cladosporium cladosporioides. All four strains could cause disease in carambola fruit. The fermentation products of Fusarium equiseti were chemically investigated, leading to the discovery of four compounds, 3,7,9-trihydroxy-1-methyl-6H-dibenzo[b,d]pyran-6-on, 1,4,7-trihydroxy-3,9-dimethoxy-6H-benzo[c]chromen-6-one, lecanoric acid and 7-hydroxy-4-methyl-1(3H)-isobenzofuranone. The results of biological characteristics indicated that the optimal growth temperature for the four pathogenic fungi was 25~28 ℃, and they could all grow within the pH range of 4~10.

AIM: To investigate the risk factors of refractive regression after correction of moderate and high myopia by femtosecond laser assisted in situ keratomileusis(FS-LASIK)for 1 a, and construct prediction model.METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed on the clinical data of 400 patients(800 eyes)with moderate and high myopia undergoing FS-LASIK correction in Xi'an Gaoxin Hospital from June 2017 to November 2018, and the patients were randomly divided into modeling group(n=300)and verification group(n=100)according to a ratio of 3:1. The modeling group was divided into regression group and non-regression group according to the occurrence of refractive regression at 1 a after surgery. The changes of corneal curvature and corneal thickness were observed. Logistic regression analysis was used to screen the risk factors of refractive regression in patients with moderate and high myopia at 1 a after FS-LASIK correction, and the prediction model was built based on the regression coefficient. Receiver operating curve(ROC)was used to evaluate model differentiation.RESULTS:Refractive regression occurred in 44 eyes of the modeling group and 15 eyes of the verification group at 1 a after surgery. The anterior corneal surface curvature in the modeling group was lower than that in the regression group at 6 and 12 mo after surgery(all P

Terracing is a widely adopted agricultural practice in mountainous regions around the world that aims to conserve soil and water resources. Soil nutrients play a crucial role in determining soil quality, particularly in landscapes prone to drought. They are influenced by factors such as land-use type, slope aspect, and altitude. In this study, we sought to examine the impact of terracing on soil nutrients (soil organic content (SOC), total nitrogen (TN), nitrate-nitrogen (NO3–-N), ammonium nitrogen (NH4+-N), total phosphorus (TP), available phosphorus (AP), total potassium (TK), and available potassium (AK)) and how they vary with environmental factors in the Chinese Loess Plateau. During the growing season, we collected 540 soil samples from the 0 to 100 cm soil layer across five major land-use types, different slope aspects, and varying altitudes. Additionally, a meta-analysis of literature data further corroborated the effective accumulation of soil nutrients through terracing in the Loess Plateau. Our findings are as follows: (1) Terraced fields, regardless of land-use type, showed a significant improvement in SOC and TN content. (2) Soil nutrient contents within terraced fields were predominantly higher on sunny slopes. (3) Terraces at lower altitudes are characterized by elevated SOC concentrations. (4) A meta-analysis of literature data pertaining to terracing and soil nutrients in this region confirmed the effective accumulation of soil nutrients through terracing. The elucidated outcomes of this study offer a profound theoretical underpinning for the accurate planning and management of terraces, the scientific utilization of land resources, and the enhancement of land productivity.

Abstract Background Although previous studies have identified specific circulating inflammatory markers associated with the risk of mortality, they have often overlooked the broader impact of a comprehensive inflammatory response on health outcomes. This study aims to assess the association between circulating systemic inflammation and age-related hospitalization and premature death, as well as explore the potential mediating effects of various dietary patterns on these associations. Methods A total of 448,574 participants enrolled in the UK Biobank study were included. Circulating C-reactive protein(CRP), white blood cell count(WBC), platelet count(Plt), and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio(NLR) were measured, which were used to establish a weighted systemic inflammatory index of inflammation index(INFLA-Score). Dietary intake information was documented through 24-hour dietary recalls, and dietary pattern scores including Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension(DASH), Mediterranean(MED), and Healthy Eating Index-2020(HEI-2020) were calculated. Cox proportional hazards regression models were performed to assess the associations between INFLA-Score and age-related disease hospitalization, cause-specific and all-cause premature death. Results During a median follow-up of 12.65 years, 23,784 premature deaths were documented. After adjusting for multiple covariates, higher levels of CRP, WBC, NLR, and INFLA-Score were significantly associated with increased risks of age-related disease hospitalization(HRCRP=1.19; 95%:1.17–1.21; HRWBC=1.17; 95%:1.15–1.19; HRNLR=1.18; 95%:1.16–1.20; HRINFLA−Score=1.19; 95%:1.17–1.21) and premature death(HRCRP=1.68; 95%:1.61–1.75; HRWBC=1.23; 95%:1.18–1.27; HRNLR=1.45; 95%:1.40–1.50; HRINFLA−Score=1.58; 95%:1.52–1.64). Compared to the lowest INFLA-Score group, the highest INFLA-Score group was associated with increased values of whole-body and organ-specific biological age, and had a shortened life expectancy of 2.96 (95% CI 2.53–3.41) and 4.14 (95% CI 3.75–4.56) years at the age of 60 years in women and men, respectively. Additionally, we observed no significant association of the INFLA-Score with aging-related hospitalization and premature death among participants who were more adhering to the Mediterranean (MED) dietary pattern(HRAging−related hospitalization=1.07; 95%:0.99–1.16;HRPremature death=1.19; 95%:0.96–1.47). Conclusion A higher INFLA-Score was correlated with an increased risk of age-related hospitalization and premature death. Nevertheless, adherence to a Mediterranean (MED) diet may mitigate these associations.

[ Objective ] In order to enrich the reproductive biology theory of Polygonatum Mill. and provide the basis for breeding of Polygonatum zanlanscianense Pamp. , the morphological structure characteris- tics , megasporogenesis and microsporogenesis , and the development process of male and female gameto- phytes of P . zanlanscianense were studied. [ Methods ] The flower buds of P . zanlanscianense at different developmental stages were used as experimental materials. The morphological and structural characteris- tics of the flowers were observed by microscopic observation , and the single flower pistil and stamen were observed by paraffin sectioning technique. [ Results ] The perianth of P . zanlanscianense was white or yel- lowish green , and the perianth tube was slightly constricted near the throat. It had 6 stamens , the lower end of filaments and anthers were united , and the anther was longitudinally split. The pistil ovary was su- perior , each ovary consisted of 3 carpels , and the style was equal to the ovary. The anther wall of P . zan- lanscianense was composed of 4 layers of cells. The mature tapetum had multiple nuclei , and the develop- ment type of tapetum was secretory. The meiotic division of microspore mother cells was continuous , tet- rads were arranged symmetrically , and mature pollen grains were 2-cell type. The microspore development was not synchronized. Pistil ovule had double integument and thick nucellum. The tetrad was linear and the embryo sac was of polygonum type. The phenomenon of double embryo sac ovule was observed. The calcium oxalate crystals were observed in the anther wall of the stamen and the ovary wall of the pistil. [ Conclusion ] The stamens and pistils of P . zanlanscianense have more primitive development characteris- tics. Although there are abnormal phenomena in the development process , the stamens can eventually form normal male gametophytes. The phenomenon of double embryo sacs with low frequency of pistils has little effect on the overall fertilization. The pollen before anther dehysis can be selected for cross breeding of P . zanlanscianense . The bundle-shaped calcium oxalate needles observed in anther wall and ovary wall cannot be used as the basis for species identification of P . zanlanscianense.

Diabetes accelerates vascular senescence, which is the basis for atherosclerosis and stiffness. The activation of the NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome and oxidative stress are closely associated with progressive senescence in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). The vascular protective effect of FGF21 has gradually gained increasing attention, but its role in diabetes-induced vascular senescence needs further investigation. In this study, diabetic mice and primary VSMCs are transfected with an FGF21 activation plasmid and treated with a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) agonist (rosiglitazone), an NLRP3 inhibitor (MCC950), and a spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK)-specific inhibitor, R406, to detect senescence-associated markers. We find that FGF21 overexpression significantly restores the level of catalase (CAT), vascular relaxation, inhibits the intensity of ROSgreen fluorescence and p21 immunofluorescence, and reduces the area of SA-β-gal staining and collagen deposition in the aortas of diabetic mice. FGF21 overexpression restores CAT, inhibits the expression of p21, and limits the area of SA-β-gal staining in VSMCs under high glucose conditions. Mechanistically, FGF21 inhibits SYK phosphorylation, the production of the NLRP3 dimer, the expression of NLRP3, and the colocalization of NLRP3 with PYCARD (ASC), as well as NLRP3 with caspase-1, to reverse the cleavage of PPARγ, preserve CAT levels, suppress ROSgreen density, and reduce the expression of p21 in VSMCs under high glucose conditions. Our results suggest that FGF21 alleviates vascular senescence by regulating the SYK-NLRP3 inflammasome-PPARγ-catalase pathway in diabetic mice.

The Dongsheng Coalfield in Ordos is a Jurassic coal bearing formation, and the 2-2 and 3-1 coal seams in many deep mining areas can be mined in the whole area, and the spacing of coal seams is small. This paper takes Yingpanhao Coal Mine as a geological prototype, and constructs a numerical model of the research area through FLAC3D and UDEC numerical simulation software to study the surface movement deformation and the evolution law of stress field caused by mining coal seams 2-2 and 3-1. The results show that repeated mining in multiple coal seams will cause the central projection of the subsidence basin to move toward the direction of lower coal seam, and then approach the central projection of the initial mining of the upper coal seam, and ultimately cross it; after the two coal seams were continuously mined, the maximum subsidence value of the surface is less than the sum of the maximum subsidence values caused by mining the two coal seams separately, and the subsidence coefficient of the coal seam repeated mining is less than the initial mining subsidence coefficient; coal pillar dislocation is closely related to surface movement parameters, the staggered coefficient is related to the surface subsidence coefficient, horizontal movement coefficient, and the tangent of the main influencing angle in a logarithmic normal function, concave parabolic function, and convex parabolic function, respectively; as common factors, pillar staggered distance and width-depth ratio have coupling effects on the ratio of characteristic parameters of primary mining and repeated mining in coal seam; in addition, with the increase of pillar staggered distance, the surface subsidence basin area decreases first and then increases, and the contours of horizontal movement near the basin evolve from ellipse to shuttle; the optimal staggered distance of multi-coal seam mining in this study area is 30 m based on the empirical formula of pressure relief distance, the surface damage degree and the relief effect of staggered mining.