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Abstract Energy-band gradient halide perovskites are highly desired candidates for fabricating high performance optoelectronic devices. Here, we demonstrate that a mixed halide perovskite single crystal undergoes phase segregation in the longitudinal direction under above-bandgap light illumination. As a result, a micron thick layer with vertically gradient halide composition and thus graded valence band edge is generated at the crystal surface. The resultant gradient structure can facilitate the hole extraction at its interface with a hole transport layer. The longitudinal phase segregation of mixed halide perovskite single crystal is likely driven by abundant defects at the surface. Moreover, the segregation rate is increased in air compared to nitrogen probably due to the combined effect of oxygen and moisture. These findings not only deepen the understanding of phase segregation mechanism in mixed halide perovskite, but also indicate a promising avenue of fabricating vertically energy-band gradient perovskite and enhancing the perovskite-based optoelectronic device performance.

Abstract Paternal genome elimination (PGE) is an intriguing but poorly understood reproductive strategy in which females are typically diploid, but males lose paternal genomes. Paternal genome heterochromatin (PGH) occurs in arthropods with germline PGE, such as the mealybug, coffee borer beetles, and booklice. Here, we present evidence that PGH initially occurs during early embryo development at around 15 h post-mating (hpm) in the cotton mealybug, Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley. Transcriptome analysis followed by qPCR validation indicated that six histone lysine methyltransferase (KMT) genes are predominantly expressed in adult females. We knocked down these five genes through dsRNA microinjection. We found that downregulation of two KMT genes, PsEZH2-X1 and PsEHMT1, resulted in a decrease of heterochromatin-related methylations, including H3K27me1, H3K27me3, and H3K9me3 in the ovaries, fewer PGH male embryos, and reduced male offspring. For further confirmation, we obtained two strains of transgenic tobacco highly expressing dsRNA targeting PsEZH2-X1 and PsEHMT1, respectively. Similarly, fewer PGH embryos and fewer male offspring were observed when feeding on these transgenic tobacco plants. Overall, we present evidence that PsEZH2-X1 and PsEHMT1 have essential roles in male embryo survival by regulating PGH formation in cotton mealybugs.

Abstract Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common fatal cancers worldwide, and the identification of novel treatment targets and prognostic biomarkers is urgently needed because of its unsatisfactory prognosis. Regulator of G-protein signaling 19 (RGS19) is a multifunctional protein that regulates the progression of various cancers. However, the specific function of RGS19 in HCC remains unclear. The expression of RGS19 was determined in clinical HCC samples. Functional and molecular biology experiments involving RGS19 were performed to explore the potential mechanisms of RGS19 in HCC. The results showed that the expression of RGS19 is upregulated in HCC tissues and is significantly associated with poor prognosis in HCC patients. RGS19 promotes the proliferation and metastasis of HCC cells in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, RGS19, via its RGS domain, stabilizes the MYH9 protein by directly inhibiting the interaction of MYH9 with STUB1, which has been identified as an E3 ligase of MYH9. Moreover, RGS19 activates β-catenin/c-Myc signaling via MYH9, and RGS19 is also a transcriptional target gene of c-Myc. A positive feedback loop formed by RGS19, MYH9, and the β-catenin/c-Myc axis was found in HCC. In conclusion, our research revealed that competition between RGS19 and STUB1 is a critical mechanism of MYH9 regulation and that the RGS19/MYH9/β-catenin/c-Myc feedback loop may represent a promising strategy for HCC therapy.

Abstract To promote the profit of generation companies and reduce carbon emissions from the generation sector, a two‐layer decision‐making model based on the cooperative game is proposed. Based on the analysis of a renewable‐fossil energy generation alliance to participate in electricity‐carbon‐green certificate markets, a robust optimization model considering the price uncertainty in the electricity spot market is first established based on the information gap decision‐making theory as the upper part of a two‐layer optimization model. Subsequently, the clearing models of the electricity spot, carbon emission trading, and green certificate markets are established. This two‐layer optimization model is transformed into a single‐layer model based on the well‐established KKT conditions. A profit allocation model for the members of the generation alliance is then presented based on the Shapley value and an improved nucleolus kernel method. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed model is demonstrated by the IEEE 14‐bus power system.

Abstract Background Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) with radiographic damage is more prevalent in men than in women. IL-17, which is mainly secreted from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), plays an important role in the development of AS. Its expression is different between male and female. However, it is still unclear whether sex dimorphism of IL-17 contribute to sex differences in AS. Methods GSE221786, GSE73754, GSE25101, GSE181364 and GSE205812 datasets were collected from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Differential expressed genes (DEGs) were analyzed with the Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA), Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) methods. CIBERSORTx and EcoTyper algorithms were used for immune infiltration analyses. Machine learning based on the XGBoost algorithm model was used to identify the impact of DEGs. The Connectivity Map (CMAP) database was used as a drug discovery tool for exploring potential drugs based on the DEGs. Results According to immune infiltration analyses, T cells accounted for the largest proportion of IL-17-secreting PBMCs, and KEGG analyses suggested an enhanced activation of mast cells among male AS patients, whereas the expression of TNF was higher in female AS patients. Other signaling pathways, including those involving metastasis-associated 1 family member 3 (MAT3) or proteasome, were found to be more activated in male AS patients. Regarding metabolic patterns, oxidative phosphorylation pathways and lipid oxidation were significantly upregulated in male AS patients. In XGBoost algorithm model, DEGs including METRN and TMC4 played important roles in the disease process. we integrated the CMAP database for systematic analyses of polypharmacology and drug repurposing, which indicated that atorvastatin, famciclocir, ATN-161 and taselisib may be applicable to the treatment of AS. Conclusions We analyzed the sex dimorphism of IL-17-secreting PBMCs in AS. The results showed that mast cell activation was stronger in males, while the expression of TNF was higher in females. In addition, through machine learning and the CMAP database, we found that genes such as METRN and TMC4 may promote the development of AS, and drugs such as atorvastatin potentially could be used for AS treatment.

Abstract Automation advancements prompts the extensive integration of collaborative robot (cobot) across a range of industries. Compared to the commonly used design approach of increasing the payload-to-weight ratio of cobot to enhance load capacity, equal attention should be paid to the dynamic response characteristics of cobot during the design process to make the cobot more flexible. In this paper, a new method for designing the drive train parameters of cobot is proposed. Firstly, based on the analysis of factors influencing the load capacity and dynamic response characteristics, design criteria for both aspects are established for cobot with all optimization design criteria normalized within the design domain. Secondly, with the cobot in the horizontal pose, the motor design scheme is discretized and it takes the joint motor diameter and gearbox speed ratio as optimization design variables. Finally, all the discrete values of the optimization objectives are obtained through the enumeration method and the Pareto front is used to select the optimal solution through multi-objective optimization. Base on the cobot design method proposed in this paper, a six-axis cobot is designed and compared with the commercial cobot. The result shows that the load capacity of the designed cobot in this paper reaches 8.4 kg, surpassing the 5 kg load capacity commercial cobot which is used as a benchmark. The minimum resonance frequency of the joints is 42.70 Hz.

Abstract Surface chirality plays an important role in determining the biological effect, but the molecular nature beyond stereoselectivity is still unknown. Herein, through surface‐enhanced infrared absorption spectroscopy, electrochemistry, and theoretical simulations, we found diasteromeric monolayers induced by assembled density on chiral gold nanofilm and identified the positive contribution of water dipole potential at chiral interface and their different interfacial interactions, which result in a difference both in the positive dipoles of interfacial water compensating the negative surface potential of the SAM and in the hindrance effect of interface dehydration, thereby regulating the interaction between amyloid‐β peptide (Aβ) and N‐isobutyryl‐cysteine (NIBC). Water on L‐NIBC interface which shows stronger positive dipole potential weakens the negative surface potential, but its local weak binding to the isopropyl group facilitates hydrophobic interaction between Aβ42 and L‐NIBC and resulted fiber aggregate. Conversely, electrostatic interaction between Aβ42 and D‐NIBC induces spherical oligomer. These findings provide new insight into molecular nature of chirality‐regulated biological effect.

Abstract Background Various epigenetic regulations systematically govern gene expression in cells involving various biological processes. Dysregulation of the epigenome leads to aberrant transcriptional programs and subsequently results in diseases, such as cancer. Therefore, comprehensive profiling epigenomics is essential for exploring the mechanisms underlying gene expression regulation during development and disease. Methods In this study, we developed single‐cell chromatin proteins and accessibility tagmentation (scCPA‐Tag), a multi‐modal single‐cell epigenetic profile capturing technique based on barcoded Tn5 transposases and a droplet microfluidics platform. scCPA‐Tag enables the simultaneous capture of DNA profiles of histone modification and chromatin accessibility in the same cell. Results By applying scCPA‐Tag to K562 cells and a hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) sample, we found that the silence of several chromatin‐accessible genes can be attributed to lysine‐27‐trimethylation of the histone H3 tail (H3K27me3) modification. We characterized the epigenetic features of the tumour cells and different immune cell types in the HCC tumour tissue by scCPA‐Tag. Besides, a tumour cell subtype (C2) with more aggressive features was identified and characterized by high chromatin accessibility and a lower abundance of H3K27me3 on tumour‐promoting genes. Conclusions Our multi‐modal scCPA‐Tag provides a comprehensive approach for exploring the epigenetic landscapes of heterogeneous cell types and revealing the mechanisms of gene expression regulation during developmental and pathological processes at the single‐cell level. Highlights scCPA‐Tag offers a highly efficient and high throughput technique to simultaneously profile histone modification and chromatin accessibility within a single cell. scCPA‐Tag enables to uncover multiple epigenetic modification features of cellular compositions within tumor tissues. scCPA‐Tag facilitates the exploration of the epigenetic landscapes of heterogeneous cell types and provides the mechanisms governing gene expression regulation.

Background: A two-way relationship exists between type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and human nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Several diabetic NASH models have the disadvantages of long cycles or inconsistent with the actual incidence of human disease, which would be costly and time-consuming to investigate disease pathogenesis and develop drugs. Therefore, there is an urgent need to establish a diabetic NASH mouse model. Methods: The combination between Fructose-palmitate-cholesterol diet (FPC) and Streptozotocin (STZ) (FPC+STZ) was used to construct diabetic NASH mouse model. The in vivo effects of silencing acid-sensitive Ion Channel 1a (ASIC1a) were examined with an adeno-associated virus 9 (AAV9) carrying ASIC1a short hairpin RNA (shRNA) in FPC+STZ model. Results: The mice fed with FPC for 12 weeks had insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, lipid accumulation, and increased hepatic levels of inflammatory factors. However, it still did not develop remarkable liver fibrosis. Most interestingly, noticeable fibrotic scars were observed in the liver of mice from FPC+STZ group. Furthermore, insulin therapy significantly ameliorated FPC+STZ-induced NASH-related liver fibrosis, indicating that hyperglycemia is of great significance in NASH development and progression. Importantly, ASIC1a was found to be involved in the pathogenesis of diabetic NASH as demonstrated that silencing ASIC1a in HSCs significantly ameliorated FPC+STZ-induced NASH fibrosis. Mechanistically, ASIC1a interacted with Poly Adp-adenosine ribose polymerase (PARP1) to promote HSC activation by inducing autophagy. Conclusion: A FPC diet combined with an injection of STZ induces a diabetic NASH mouse model in a shorter period. Targeting ASIC1a may provide a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of diabetic NASH.

Abstract Backgrounds Personal growth initiative (PGI) is regarded as a meaningful concept with potential value at both the individual and organizational levels, but little is known about the factors that contribute to nurses’ PGI. This study aimed to explore how proactive personality and hospital work environment affect PGI of clinical nurses. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted between September and October 2022 among 4414 nurses from 10 tertiary general hospitals in 10 cities in Sichuan, China, using a two-stage sampling method. Self-reported anonymous online questionnaires, such as sociodemographic information survey, personal growth initiative scale II, the 10-item proactive personality scale, and practice environment scale-nursing work index were used to collect data. Multiple hierarchical regression analyses were performed to examine research hypotheses. Results Among the control variables in this study, nurses’ self-perceptions of general health status and professional title positively predicted PGI (β = 0.462, 95%CI = 0.272–0.653; β = 1.078, 95%CI = 0.508–1.648). After adding control variables, both proactive personality (β = 1.143, 95%CI = 1.096–1.190) and work environment (β = 3.391, 95%CI = 2.904–3.879) positively predicted PGI. The work environment positively moderated the association between proactive personality and PGI (β = 0.108, 95%CI = 0.025–0.191). These predictors jointly explained 50.3% of the variance in PGI. Conclusions Nurses with a greater tendency to have a typical proactive personality have higher levels of personal growth initiative, and this positive effect will be better highlighted in a healthier work environment. Nursing managers should prioritize the employment of people with proactive personality traits, focus on the development and stimulation of proactive personality traits in nurses, and establish a supportive work environment to maximize the personal growth initiative of nurses.

Abstract Analyzing the dynamics of parking traffic can better represent the real dynamic states of road networks, thereby allowing for a deeper analysis of the parking system’s impact. This paper comparatively investigates the impact of parking policies on two traffic networks with different infrastructure, socio-economic, and policy characteristics. Parking space, average parking duration, and parking fee policies were analyzed as a function of cruising distances and cruising time with indirect effects on traffic emissions. Empirically, the system dynamics model application is tested and validated with the macroscopic data from two central business districts (CBDs) in Shanghai (Xujiahui area) and Zurich (Bahnhofstrasse area). Results showed Bahnhofstrasse CBD is more sensitive against the policy shifts with relatively higher elasticity and indicated greater responsiveness in aggregating traffic emissions when compared with Xujiahui CBD. The findings of this study may provide an overall framework to empirically assess the performance of different traffic conditions and strategies on urban parking systems.

Abstract Background Macrophages are key inflammatory immune cells that orchestrate the initiation and progression of autoimmune diseases. The characters of macrophage in diseases are determined by its phenotype in response to the local microenvironment. Ficolins have been confirmed as crucial contributors to autoimmune diseases, with Ficolin-2 being particularly elevated in patients with autoimmune diseases. However, whether Ficolin-A stimulates macrophage polarization is still poorly understood. Methods We investigated the transcriptomic expression profile of murine bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) stimulated with Ficolin-A using RNA-sequencing. To further confirm a distinct phenotype activated by Ficolin-A, quantitative RT-PCR and Luminex assay were performed in this study. Additionally, we assessed the activation of underlying cell signaling pathways triggered by Ficolin-A. Finally, the impact of Ficolin-A on macrophages were investigated in vivo through building Collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) and Dextran Sulfate Sodium Salt (DSS)-induced colitis mouse models with Fcna-/- mice. Results Ficolin-A activated macrophages into a pro-inflammatory phenotype distinct to LPS-, IFN-γ- and IFN-γ + LPS-induced phenotypes. The transcriptomic profile induced by Ficolin-A was primarily characterized by upregulation of interleukins, chemokines, iNOS, and Arginase 1, along with downregulation of CD86 and CD206, setting it apart from the M1 and M2 phenotypes. The activation effect of Ficolin-A on macrophages deteriorated the symptoms of CIA and DSS mouse models, and the deletion of Fcna significantly alleviated the severity of diseases in mice. Conclusion Our work used transcriptomic analysis by RNA-Seq to investigate the impact of Ficolin-A on macrophage polarization. Our findings demonstrate that Ficolin-A induces a novel pro-inflammatory phenotype distinct to the phenotypes activated by LPS, IFN-γ and IFN-γ + LPS on macrophages.

Abstract Beneficial fungi are well known for their contribution to insects’ adaptation to diverse habitats. However, where insect-associated fungi reside and the underlying mechanisms of insect-fungi interaction are not well understood. Here, we show a pellet-like structure on the legs of mealybugs, a group of economically important insect pests. This at-leg pellet, formed by mealybugs feeding on tomato but not by those on cotton, potato, or eggplant, originates jointly from host secretions and mealybug waxy filaments. A fungal strain, Penicillium citrinum, is present in the pellets and it colonizes honeydew. P. citrinum can inhibit mealybug fungal pathogens and is highly competitive in honeydew. Compounds within the pellets also have inhibitory activity against mealybug pathogens. Further bioassays suggest that at-leg pellets can improve the survival rate of Phenacoccus solenopsis under pathogen pressure, increase their sucking frequency, and decrease the defense response of host plants. Our study presents evidences on how a fungi-associated at-leg pellet provides multiple protections for mealybugs through suppressing pathogens and host defense, providing new insights into complex insect × fungi × plant interactions and their coevolution.

Abstract Background COVID-19-associated pulmonary fibrosis remains frequent. This study aimed to investigate pulmonary redox balance in COVID-19 ARDS patients and possible relationship with pulmonary fibrosis and long-term lung abnormalities. Methods Baseline data, chest CT fibrosis scores, N-terminal peptide of alveolar collagen III (NT-PCP-III), transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH), oxidized glutathione (GSSG) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were first collected and compared between SARS-CoV-2 RNA positive patients with moderate to severe ARDS (n = 65, COVID-19 ARDS) and SARS-CoV-2 RNA negative non-ARDS patients requiring mechanical ventilation (n = 63, non-ARDS). Then, correlations between fibroproliferative (NT-PCP-III and TGF-β1) and redox markers were analyzed within COVID-19 ARDS group, and comparisons between survivor and non-survivor subgroups were performed. Finally, follow-up of COVID-19 ARDS survivors was performed to analyze the relationship between pulmonary abnormalities, fibroproliferative and redox markers 3 months after discharge. Results Compared with non-ARDS group, COVID-19 ARDS group had significantly elevated chest CT fibrosis scores (p

Abstract Recent studies have increasingly revealed the connection between metabolic reprogramming and tumor progression. However, the specific impact of metabolic reprogramming on inter-patient heterogeneity and prognosis in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) still requires further exploration. Here, we introduced a cellular hierarchy framework according to a malignant and metabolic gene set, named malignant & metabolism reprogramming (MMR), to reanalyze 178,739 single-cell reference profiles. Furthermore, we proposed a three-stage ensemble learning pipeline, aided by genetic algorithm (GA), for survival prediction across 9 LUAD cohorts (n = 2066). Throughout the pipeline of developing the three stage-MMR (3 S-MMR) score, double training sets were implemented to avoid over-fitting; the gene-pairing method was utilized to remove batch effect; GA was harnessed to pinpoint the optimal basic learner combination. The novel 3 S-MMR score reflects various aspects of LUAD biology, provides new insights into precision medicine for patients, and may serve as a generalizable predictor of prognosis and immunotherapy response. To facilitate the clinical adoption of the 3 S-MMR score, we developed an easy-to-use web tool for risk scoring as well as therapy stratification in LUAD patients. In summary, we have proposed and validated an ensemble learning model pipeline within the framework of metabolic reprogramming, offering potential insights for LUAD treatment and an effective approach for developing prognostic models for other diseases.

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a crucial role in tumor generation and progression. However, the exact functional significance and underlying molecular mechanism by which lncRNA CERS6-AS1 operates in the context of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remain unknown. We aimed to evaluate the potential role of the CERS6-AS1/miR-424-5p/ANLN axis in the progression of LUAD through bioinformatics and cytobehavioral experiments, and to provide a new insight into the combined treatment of LUAD. Based on the TCGA database, the expression of CERS6-AS1 in pan-cancer was evaluated, and its prognostic performance in LUAD was evaluated by ROC curve, survival curve and COX analysis. In addition, quantification of CERS6-AS1 expression levels in LUAD patients and lung cancer cells using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), and further validate the functional significance of CERS6-AS1 in promoting the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of lung cancer cells. The competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network was constructed, and miR-424-5p inhibitors were applied to CERS6-AS1 knockdown cells. The potential downstream genes associated with the regulatory axis of CERS6-AS1/miR-424-5p were analyzed by PPI network and gene enrichment analysis (KEGG). Finally, we evaluated the prognostic value of high expression of ANLN in LUAD and its effects on immune cell infiltration, tumor mutation burden, chemotherapy response, and immunotherapy. CERS6-AS1 expression was significantly elevated in both LUAD patients and lung cancer cells. In the CERS6-AS1 knockdown assay, the proliferation, invasion, migration and epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT) of cancer cells were significantly inhibited. Notably, there was a prominent upregulation of miR-424-5p expression in cells where CERS6-AS1 was knocked down. Co-transfection of siRNA and miR-424-5p inhibitors into lung cancer cells restored the restriction on lung cancer cells. Anillin (ANLN) has been identified as a potential target gene for miR-424-5p and as a prognostic and immune biomarker associated with immune cell infiltration and tumor mutational burden in LUAD. Additionally, ANLN impacts the efficacy of chemotherapy and immunotherapy in LUAD patients. This study reveals a novel regulatory mechanism in which CERS6-AS1 may contribute to the progression of LUAD by influencing the expression of ANLN as a competitive sponge for miR-424-5p.

Background Gastrointestinal cancer is a significant cause of cancer incidence and mortality. Nevertheless, the epidemiology of the burden among adolescents and young adults (AYAs, aged 15–39 years) remains limited in the Asia-Pacific region, despite the region’s significant population. This study aims to explore the gastrointestinal cancer burden among AYAs in the Asia-Pacific region for the year 2019, while also analysing trends from 1990 to 2019 and projecting future trends up to 2044.Methods Annual case numbers, age-standardized rates of incidence, death, and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) and their estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) for gastrointestinal cancers were derived from the Global Burden of Disease, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study 2019. Trends over the next 25 years have also been predicted.Results In 2019, there were 117,714 incident cases, 61,578 deaths and 3,483,053 DALYs due to gastrointestinal cancers in the Asia-Pacific region, accounting for 68.5%, 67.6% and 72.4%, respectively, of global gastrointestinal cancers in this population. The highest age­standardized rates occurred in countries with a middle Socio-demographic Index. From 1990 to 2019, there was a decline in the age-standardized rates of incidence, death and DALY attributed to gastrointestinal cancers, with EAPC of −1.10, −2.48 and −2.44, respectively. These rates are expected to stabilize over 25 years, with notable variations in individual gastrointestinal cancers.Conclusions Gastrointestinal cancers among AYAs in the Asia-Pacific region have posed a significant burden over the past 30 years and are expected to persist in the coming years.

In order to meet the requirements of concrete filling, vibration, and pumping during the construction of the concrete-filled steel tube (CFST) arch bridge, the C80 expansive self-compacting concrete (SCC) is prepared using the absolute volume method. This research investigates the effects of MgO-based expansive agent (EA) and water-to-binder ratio (w/b) on the fresh properties, mechanical properties, autogenous shrinkage, and creep behaviors of expansive SCC. The microstructure of expansive SCC is analyzed by scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Results show that, as the MgO-based EA content increases from 5 % to 10 %, its effect on fresh properties of SCC is negligible. The addition of EA retards the hydration reaction of cement at early ages, thus delaying the strength development. However, the long-term mechanical strengths of the SCC are enhanced, due to the expansion product refines the microstructure at later ages. Moreover, the 14-day autogenous shrinkage of SCC with 10 % EA content is eliminated and shows the micro expansion (155.3 με). The microstructural analysis shows that the porosity of SCC with 10 % EA content is 1.8 % while the pore throat below 0.1 μm accounting for 55 % and the pore size above 30 μm is negligible. This research reveals the mechanism of the effects of MgO-based EA and w/b on the volume stability of the SCC, facilitating the application of expansive SCC in CFST composite structures.

The large accumulation of molybdenum tailings (MoT) has resulted in a series of hazards, including environmental pollution, damage to water resources, and increased risk of geological disasters. This study employs ordinary Portland cement (OPC) and fly ash (FA) stabilization of MoT sand and seeks the optimal mix ratio through experimentation. The strength properties of MoT sand stabilized with different proportions of OPC and FA are studied and analyzed through unconfined compressive strength tests, splitting tensile strength tests, and splitting rebound modulus tests. Additionally, the microstructure of MoT sand stabilized with OPC and FA is analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results indicate that with an increase in OPC content, the compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, and splitting rebound modulus all increase. With an increase in FA content, the compressive strength gradually increases, while the splitting tensile strength and splitting rebound modulus show a trend of initially increasing and then decreasing. The results show that the optimal mix proportion for OPC and FA-stabilized MoT sand is 7 % OPC content and 15 % FA content. This mixture is suitable for a heavy traffic base of expressways and class I highways, as well as for an extra heavy traffic base of class II and below highways. The research results can provide reference for using OPC and FA stabilized MoT sand as roadbed material.

The naked mole rat (NMR), Heterocephalus glaber, is known as the longest-lived rodent and is extraordinarily resistant to hypoxia and cancer. Here, both NMR embryonic fibroblasts (NEFs) and their mouse counterparts (MEFs) were subjected to anoxic conditions (0% O2, 5% CO2). A combination of comparative transcriptomics and proteomics was then employed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Notably, we observed distinct levels of histone H1.2 (encoded by HIST1H1C) accumulation between NEFs and MEFs. Subsequent mechanistic analyses showed that higher H1.2 expression in NEFs was associated with the lower expression of its inhibitor, PARP1. Additionally, we discovered that H1.2 can directly interact with HIF-1α PAS domains, thereby promoting the expression of HIF-1α through facilitating the dimerization with HIF-1β. The overexpression of H1.2 was also found to trigger autophagy and to suppress the migration of cancer cells, as well as the formation of xenograft tumors, via the NRF2/P62 signaling pathway. Moreover, an engineered H1.2 knock-in mouse model exhibited significantly extended survival in hypoxic conditions (4% O2) and showed a reduced rate of tumor formation. Collectively, our results indicate a potential mechanistic link between H1.2 and the dual phenomena of anoxic adaptation and cancer resistance.

IntroductionUnderstanding how human activities affect biodiversity is needed to inform systemic policies and targets for achieving sustainable development goals. Shallow tillage to remove Artemisia ordosica is commonly conducted in the Mu Us Desert. However, the impacts of shallow tillage on plant community species diversity, phylogenetic structure, and community assembly processes remain poorly understood.MethodsThis study explores the effects of shallow tillage on species diversity including three a-diversity and two b-diversity indicators, as well as phylogenetic structure [phylogenetic diversity (PD), net relatedness index (NRI), and nearest taxon index (NTI)]. Additionally, this research analyzes the effects of shallow tillage on the community assembly process.Results and discussionThe results showed that the a-diversity index, b-diversity index, and PD of the shallow tillage (ST) communities were significantly higher than those of the non-shallow tillage (NT) communities, and the phylogenetic structures of both the ST and NT communities tended to be differentiated, with competitive exclusion being the main mechanism of plant assembly. However, shallow tillage increased the relative importance of the stochastic processes dominated by dispersal limitation, mitigating plant competition in the communities. This conclusion was supported by the Raup–Crick difference index-based analysis.ConclusionTherefore, for the ecological restoration of the Mu Us Desert, species with adaptability and low niche overlap should be selected to increase the utilization efficiency of the environmental resources. The results of this study provide a foundation for policy development for ecosystem management and restoration in the Mu Us Desert.

Liver disease affects millions of people in the world, and China has the highest prevalence of liver disease in the world. Small ubiquitin-related modifier (SUMO) modification is a highly conserved post-translational modification of proteins. They are widely expressed in a variety of tissues, including the heart, liver, kidney and lung. SUMOylation of protein plays a key role in the occurrence and development of liver disease. Therefore, this study reviewed the effects of SUMO protein on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), alcoholic liver disease (ALD), viral hepatitis, hepatic fibrosis (HF), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and other liver diseases to provide novel strategies for targeted treatment of liver disease.

Neuroimmune and neurodegenerative ailments impose a substantial societal burden. Neuroimmune disorders involve the intricate regulatory interactions between the immune system and the central nervous system. Prominent examples of neuroimmune disorders encompass multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica. Neurodegenerative diseases result from neuronal degeneration or demyelination in the brain or spinal cord, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The precise underlying pathogenesis of these conditions remains incompletely understood. Ferroptosis, a programmed form of cell death characterised by lipid peroxidation and iron overload, plays a pivotal role in neuroimmune and neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we provide a detailed overview of ferroptosis, its mechanisms, pathways, and regulation during the progression of neuroimmune and neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, we summarise the impact of ferroptosis on neuroimmune-related cells (T cells, B cells, neutrophils, and macrophages) and neural cells (glial cells and neurons). Finally, we explore the potential therapeutic implications of ferroptosis inhibitors in diverse neuroimmune and neurodegenerative diseases.

Pleurotus ostreatus is one of the most consumed mushroom species, as it serves as a high-quality food, favors a rich secondary metabolism, and has remarkable adaptability to the environment and predators. In this study, we investigated the function of two key reactive oxygen species producing enzyme NADPH oxidase (PoNoxA and PoNoxB) in P. ostreatus hyphae growth, metabolite production, signaling pathway activation, and immune responses to different stresses. Characterization of the Nox mutants showed that PoNoxB played an important role in the hyphal formation of the multicellular structure, while PoNoxA regulated apical dominance. The ability of P. ostreatus to tolerate a series of abiotic stress conditions (e.g., osmotic, oxidative, membrane, and cell-wall stresses) and mechanical damage repair was enhanced with PoNoxA over-expression. PoNoxB had a greater responsibility in regulating the polysaccharide composition of the cell wall and methyl jasmonate and gibberellin GA1 biosynthesis, and improved mushroom resistance against Tyrophagus putrescentiae. Moreover, mutants were involved in the jasmonate and GA signaling pathway, and toxic protein defense metabolite production. Our findings shed light on how the oyster mushroom senses stress signals and responds to adverse environments by the complex regulators of Noxs.

ObjectiveThis paper presents a tracking control method based on dynamic programming guidance to address the challenges presented by the autonomous recovery of underactuated unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). MethodsAt the kinematic level, constant bearing approach (CB) guidance is combined with a dynamic window algorithm (DWA) to guide the USV in achieving target tracking and dynamic obstacle avoidance. At the dynamic level, considering the uncertainties in the model parameters and recovery environment, a radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) is employed to design a dynamic sliding mode controller for the tracking control of the guidance output. Finally, the stability of the system is analyzed using Lyapunov theory. ResultsThe simulation results demonstrate that the proposed method enables the USV to exhibit stable tracking performance, effectively avoid dynamic obstacles during the recovery process and adapt to uncertain factors in the estimation model and unknown environmental disturbances. ConclusionThe proposed method exhibits strong robustness and flexibility, providing valuable references for the guidance and target tracking of USVs during recovery in dynamic environments.

Expansion of renewable energy could help realize the goals of peaking carbon dioxide emissions and carbon neutralization. Some existing grid dispatching methods integrating short-term renewable energy prediction and reinforcement learning (RL) have been proven to alleviate the adverse impact of energy fluctuations risk. However, these methods omit long-term output prediction, which leads to stability and security problems on optimal power flow. This paper proposes a confidence estimation Transformer for long-term renewable energy forecasting in reinforcement learning-based power grid dispatching (Conformer-RLpatching). Conformer-RLpatching predicts long-term active output of each renewable energy generator with an enhanced Transformer to ensure stable operation of the hybrid energy grid and improve the utilization rate of renewable energy, thus boosting dispatching performance. Furthermore, a confidence estimation method is proposed to reduce the prediction error of renewable energy. Meanwhile, a dispatching necessity evaluation mechanism is put forward to decide whether the active output of a generator needs to be adjusted. Experiments carried out on the SG-126 power grid simulator show that Conformer-RLpatching achieves great improvement over the second best algorithm DDPG in security score by 25.8% and achieves a better total reward compared with the golden medal team in the power grid dispatching competition sponsored by State Grid Corporation of China under the same simulation environment. Codes are outsourced in https://github.com/BUPT-ANTlab/Conformer-RLpatching.

In comparison to laser additive manufacturing, metal droplet deposition technology presents substantial cost benefits by obviating the necessity for costly metal powders and high-power lasers. Nonetheless, prevalent metal droplet deposition methodologies often grapple with challenges such as intricate drive architectures, substantial droplet volumes, and diminished jetting frequencies. This paper proposes an ultrasonic vibration micro-jet ejection technique and constructs a prototype for metal additive manufacturing. Utilizing ultrasonic vibration of a tool rod, the technique generates a high-frequency acoustic pressure field within the crucible, which facilitates the ejection of molten metal from the nozzle. The study explores two operational modes: continuous jet and on-demand jet. It was determined that the tool rod's amplitude must exceed a certain threshold to initiate metal ejection. As the amplitude further increases, the droplet jetting behavior transitions from uniform to non-uniform ejection states. To enhance formability quality, the study examined the influence of various process parameters on single-pass and three-dimensional forming. The examination of jetted parts revealed that both uniform and non-uniform jets provide satisfactory formability and mechanical performance. This research presents a new direction for achieving efficient metal droplet jetting forming.

Abstract Real-time interaction with uncertain and dynamic environments is essential for robotic systems to achieve functions such as visual perception, force interaction, spatial obstacle avoidance, and motion planning. To ensure the reliability and determinism of system execution, a flexible real-time control system architecture and interaction algorithm are required. The ROS framework was designed to improve the reusability of robotic software development by providing a distributed structure, hardware abstraction, message-passing mechanism, and application prototypes. Rich ecosystems for robotic development have been built around ROS1 and ROS2 architectures based on the Linux system. However, because of the fairness scheduling principle of the default Linux system design and the complexity of the kernel, the system does not have real-time computing. To achieve a balance between real-time and non-real-time computing, this paper uses the transmission mechanism of ROS2, combines it with the scheduling mechanism of the Linux operating system, and uses Preempt_RT to enhance the real-time computing of ROS1 and ROS2. The real-time performance evaluation of ROS1 and ROS2 is conducted from multiple perspectives, including throughput, transmission mode, QoS service quality, frequency, number of subscription nodes and EtherCAT master. This paper makes two significant contributions: firstly, it employs Preempt_RT to optimize the native ROS2 system, effectively enhancing the real-time performance of native ROS2 message transmission; secondly, it conducts a comprehensive evaluation of the real-time performance of both native and optimized ROS2 systems. This comparison elucidates the benefits of the optimized ROS2 architecture regarding real-time performance, with results vividly demonstrated through illustrative figures.

Highlights Precise exfoliation and modification of nano-Tellurium was realized by adopting a room-temperature ionic liquid as the electrolyte. Nano-Tellurium with high-entropy morphology can offer greater solar absorption and more kinds of surface chemical groups, giving rise to superior photothermal properties. Nano-Tellurium-poly(vinyl alcohol)-based photothermal foam hydrogels, with high compressibility, excellent water transport rate and low evaporation enthalpy of water, combined with a new heat-supply model, achieve an evaporation rate of 4.11 kg m−2 h−1 with energy efficiencies up to 128% under 1 sun irradiation, which are the highest values for semiconductor-based nanocomposites reported so far.

The interaction between woody plants and mycorrhizal fungi is an important biological interaction; however, the driving factors behind the diversity of mycorrhizal trees formed through the symbiosis of mycorrhizal fungi and woody plants remain unclear. In this study, we collected and compiled the woody plant data of 34 forest dynamic plots containing 3350 species from habitats around the world and divided them into AM and EcM trees. We tested the contribution of AM and EcM trees to tree diversity and its components in forest communities worldwide. Our results showed that AM trees rather than EcM trees affect the tree diversity of forest communities, and that the diversity of AM trees has a significant latitudinal gradient pattern. Climate variables, especially temperature, are strongly correlated with the diversity patterns for AM trees rather than EcM trees. Topography is the most significant factor affecting the diversity of EcM trees. Our findings highlight the importance of AM trees for the tree diversity of forest communities worldwide. Our findings have important implications for understanding the response of complex woody plant communities with different types of mycorrhizal symbiosis to climate change.

Abstract Chronic atrophic gastritis (AG) is initiated mainly by Helicobacter pylori infection, which may progress to stomach cancer following the Correa's cascade. The current treatment regimen is H. pylori eradication, yet evidence is lacking that this treatment is effective on later stages of AG especially gastric gland atrophy. Here, using AG mouse model, patient samples, gastric organoids, and lineage tracing, this study unraveled gastric stem cell (GSC) defect as a crucial pathogenic factor in AG in mouse and human. Moreover, a natural peptide is isolated from a traditional Chinese medicine that activated GSCs to regenerate gastric epithelia in experimental AG models and revitalized the atrophic gastric organoids derived from patients. It is further shown that the peptide exerts its functions by stabilizing the EGF‐EGFR complex and specifically activating the downstream ERK and Stat1 signaling. Overall, these findings advance the understanding of AG pathogenesis and open a new avenue for AG treatment.

Background: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) poses a complex challenge due to its intricate underlying mechanisms, and curative treatments remain elusive. Consequently, there is an urgent need to identify genes causally associated with IBD. Methods: We extracted blood eQTL data from the GTExv8.ALL.Whole_Blood database, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) summary statistics of IBD from the IEU GWAS database, and performed a three-fold analysis protocol, including transcriptome-wide association analysis, Mendelian randomisation analysis, Bayesian colocalisation, and subsequent potential therapeutic agents identification. Results: We identified four pathogenic genes, namely CARD9, RTEL1, STMN3 and ARFRP1, that promote the development of IBD, encompassing both ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD). Notably, ARFRP1 exhibited the ability to suppress IBD (encompassing UC and CD) development. Regarding drug prediction, cyclophosphamide emerged as a promising novel therapeutic option for IBD, encompassing UC and CD. Conclusion: We identified several potential genes related to IBD (UC and CD), including CARD9, RTEL1, STMN3 and ARFRP1, warranting further investigation in functional studies to elucidate underlying disease mechanisms. Additionally, clinical studies exploring the potential of cyclophosphamide as a treatment avenue for IBD are warranted.

BackgroundVascular cognitive impairment (VCI) is a major cause of cognitive impairment in the elderly and a co-factor in the development and progression of most neurodegenerative diseases. With the continuing development of neuroimaging, multiple markers can be combined to provide richer biological information, but little is known about their diagnostic value in VCI.MethodsA total of 83 subjects participated in our study, including 32 patients with vascular cognitive impairment with no dementia (VCIND), 21 patients with vascular dementia (VD), and 30 normal controls (NC). We utilized resting-state quantitative electroencephalography (qEEG) power spectra, structural magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI) for feature screening, and combined them with support vector machines to predict VCI patients at different disease stages.ResultsThe classification performance of sMRI outperformed qEEG when distinguishing VD from NC (AUC of 0.90 vs. 0,82), and sMRI also outperformed qEEG when distinguishing VD from VCIND (AUC of 0.8 vs. 0,0.64), but both underperformed when distinguishing VCIND from NC (AUC of 0.58 vs. 0.56). In contrast, the joint model based on qEEG and sMRI features showed relatively good classification accuracy (AUC of 0.72) to discriminate VCIND from NC, higher than that of either qEEG or sMRI alone.ConclusionPatients at varying stages of VCI exhibit diverse levels of brain structure and neurophysiological abnormalities. EEG serves as an affordable and convenient diagnostic means to differentiate between different VCI stages. A machine learning model that utilizes EEG and sMRI as composite markers is highly valuable in distinguishing diverse VCI stages and in individually tailoring the diagnosis.

Hypertrophic scars affect a significant number of individuals annually, giving rise to both cosmetic concerns and functional impairments. Prior research has established that an imbalance in the composition of gut microbes, termed microbial dysbiosis, can initiate the progression of various diseases through the intricate interplay between gut microbiota and the host. However, the precise nature of the causal link between gut microbiota and hypertrophic scarring remains uncertain. In this study, after compiling summary data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) involving 418 instances of gut microbiota and hypertrophic scarring, we conducted a bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) to investigate the potential existence of a causal relationship between gut microbiota and the development of hypertrophic scar and to discern the directionality of causation. By utilizing MR analysis, we identified seven causal associations between gut microbiome and hypertrophic scarring, involving one positive and six negative causal directions. Among them, Intestinimonas, Ruminococcus2, Barnesiella, Dorea, Desulfovibrio piger, and Ruminococcus torques act as protective factors against hypertrophic scarring, while Eubacterium rectale suggests a potential role as a risk factor for hypertrophic scars. Additionally, sensitivity analyses of these results revealed no indications of heterogeneity or pleiotropy. The findings of our MR study suggest a potential causative link between gut microbiota and hypertrophic scarring, opening up new ways for future mechanistic research and the exploration of nanobiotechnology therapies for skin disorders.

Abstract Blind quantum computation (BQC) is a secure quantum computation method that protects the privacy of clients. Measurement-based quantum computation (MBQC) is a promising approach for realizing BQC. To obtain reliable results in blind MBQC, it is crucial to verify whether the resource graph states are accurately prepared in the adversarial scenario. However, previous verification protocols for this task are too resource-consuming or noise-susceptible to be applied in practice. Here, we propose a robust and efficient protocol for verifying arbitrary graph states with any prime local dimension in the adversarial scenario, which leads to a robust and efficient protocol for verifying the resource state in blind MBQC. Our protocol requires only local Pauli measurements and is thus easy to realize with current technologies. Nevertheless, it can achieve optimal scaling behaviors with respect to the system size and the target precision as quantified by the infidelity and significance level, which has never been achieved before. Notably, our protocol can exponentially enhance the scaling behavior with the significance level.

Recovery of the coal buried under buildings, railways and water bodies and the residual coal in irregularly arranged fully mechanized mining faces is a common engineering problem facing underground coal mining. In this study, a mining technology of continuous driving and gangue backfilling (CDGB) was proposed. The technology, which can not only alleviate ground subsidence and gangue discharge, but also release the above-mentioned coals, contributes to green and efficient sustainable development of mining. The stability of the system of the solidified body-reserved coal pillar combination (S-C combination) is crucial to the CDGB technology. Therefore, it is of great significance to explore the mechanical and damage characteristics of S-C combination in the synergistic bearing process. First, four sets of different-shaped S-C combination specimens were fabricated and a S-C combination bearing structure in CDGB was constructed to explore the differences in mechanical characteristics and damage modes of different-shaped S-C combination specimens during CDGB. Subsequently, their surface strain field evolutions and acoustic emission (AE) response characteristics in the load-bearing process were obtained with the aid of the digital image correlation technique and the AE signal monitoring system. Furthermore, a damage evolution model based on AE parameters and mechanical parameters was established to clarify the damage evolution law. The following results were obtained: (1) The free area of S-C combination can serve as a quantitative index to evaluate the stability of the overburden control system; (2) The concept of critical value k of the free area was first proposed. When the free area exceeds the critical value k (free area ratio greater than 1.13), the deformation resistance and the free area changes becomes negatively correlated; (3) As the free area expands, the failure of the S-C combination specimen evolves from tensile failure to shear failure. The distribution characteristics of the axial strain field also verified such a change in the failure mode; (4) When the free area expands, the peak AE count gradually changes from “double peaks” to “a single peak”. In this process, the expansion of free area shortens the time for accumulating and releasing energy during loading. Micro cracks generated in the specimen change from a phased steep growth to a continuous increase, and the process in which micro cracks develop, converge, intersect and connect to form macro cracks accelerates. The damage evolution law concluded based on AE parameters and mechanical parameters can well characterize the damage evolution process of S-C combination, providing certain reference for the study on the synergistic bearing of S-C combination during CDGB.

Abstract Background The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) regulates critical processes, including lipid synthesis, which are affected by transmembrane proteins localized in the ER membrane. One such protein, transmembrane protein 147 (TMEM147), has recently been implicated for its role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tumorigenesis; however, the mechanisms remain unclear. We investigated the role of TMEM147 in HCC and the underlying mechanisms. Methods TMEM147 expression was examined in human HCC cells and adjacent non-tumorous tissues using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. In vitro and in vivo studies were conducted to investigate the impact of TMEM147 on the progression of HCC. Proteins interacting with TMEM147 were identified via RNA-seq, immunoprecipitation, and mass spectrometry analyses. Lipidomic analysis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were employed to determine and analyze cholesterol and 27-hydroxycholesterol (27HC) contents. Extensive experimental techniques were used to study ferroptosis in HCC cells. The fatty acid content of macrophages affected by TMEM147 was quantified using ELISA. Macrophage phenotypes were determined using immunofluorescence assay and flow cytometric analysis. Results TMEM147 mRNA and protein levels were increased in HCC cells, and the increased TMEM147 expression was associated with a poor survival. TMEM147 promoted tumor cell proliferation and metastases in vitro and in vivo. The protein was found to interact with the key enzyme 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase (DHCR7), which affected cellular cholesterol homeostasis and increased the extracellular levels of 27HC in HCC cells. TMEM147 also promoted the expression of DHCR7 by enhancing the activity of signal transducer and activator of transcription 2. 27HC expression upregulated glutathione peroxidase 4 in HCC, leading to ferroptosis resistance and promotion of HCC proliferation. HCC cell-derived 27HC expression increased the lipid metabolism in macrophages and activated peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ signaling, thereby activating M2 macrophage polarization and promoting HCC cell invasion and migration. Conclusions Our results indicate that TMEM147 confers ferroptosis resistance and M2 macrophage polarization, which are primarily dependent on the upregulation of cellular cholesterol homeostasis and 27HC secretion, leading to cancer growth and metastasis. These findings suggest that the TMEM147/STAT2/DHCR7/27HC axis in the tumor microenvironment may serve as a promising therapeutic target for HCC. Graphical Abstract

Abstract The laccase gene family encodes multiple isozymes that are crucial for the degradation of substrates and the regulation of developmental processes in fungi. Pleurotus eryngii is an important edible and medicinal fungus belonging to the Basidiomycota phylum and can grow on a variety of natural substrates. In the present study, genome-wide profiling of P. eryngii identified 10 genes encoding its laccase isoenzymes. Conservative sequence analysis demonstrated that all PeLacs possess classical laccase structural domains. Phylogenetic analysis yielded four major subgroups, the members of which are similar with respect to conserved gene organization, protein domain architecture, and consensus motifs. The 10 PeLacs formed three groups together with 12 PoLacs in Pleurotus ostreatus, indicating that they share a high level of evolutionary homology. Cis-responsive element analysis implied that PeLacs genes play a role in growth and development and lignocellulose degradation. Targeted overexpression of PeLac5 reduced the time to primordia formation and their development to fruiting bodies. Gene expression patterns in the presence of different lignocellulosic substrates indicate that three PeLacs genes (2, 4, and 9) are key to lignocellulose degradation. This work presents the first inventory of laccase genes in P. eryngii and preliminarily explores their functions, which may help to uncover the manner by which these proteins utilize substrates.

In this study, full-scale fire experiments and numerical simulations of the underground powerhouse of a hydropower station during the construction stage were performed to investigate the temperature distribution and smoke propagation. The characteristic of inverse ambient temperature in the vertical direction was discovered, resulting in the vertical movement of smoke differing from that in a uniform temperature environment. The maximum temperature increase appeared at non-highest points. Smoke characteristic parameters such as smoke settlement height and temperature increase were discussed at different heat release rates (HRRs) of fire sources to determine the fire risk distribution of the powerhouse. Two ventilation modes were proposed, and their smoke control effects were compared. The optimal ventilation mode and volume in different fire scenarios were proposed. The findings offer scenario and data support for fire smoke control and emergency plan design in powerhouses of hydropower stations.

This study presents the spatio–temporal evolution of the electric and magnetic fields recorded by the China Seismo–Electromagnetic Satellite (CSES) and the thermal infrared remote sensing data observed by the Chinese stationary meteorological satellites Feng Yun–2G (FY–2G) associated with the 2021 Mw7.3 Maduo earthquake. Specifically, we analyzed the power spectrum density (PSD) data of the electric field in the extremely low frequency (ELF) band, the geomagnetic east–west vector data, and the temperature of brightness blackbody (TBB) data to investigate the spatio–temporal evolution characteristics under quiet space weather conditions (Dst > −30 nT and Kp < 3). Results showed that (1) the TBB radiation began to increase notably along the northern fault of the epicenter ~1.5 months prior to the occurrence of the earthquake. It achieved its maximum intensity on 17 May, and the earthquake occurred as the anomalies decreased. (2) The PSD in the 371 Hz–500 Hz and 700 Hz–871 Hz bands exhibited anomaly perturbations near the epicenter and its magnetic conjugate area on May 17, with particularly notable perturbations observed in the latter. The anomaly perturbations began to occur ~1 month before the earthquake, and the earthquake occurred as the anomalies decreased. (3) Both the magnetic –east–west component vector data and the ion velocity Vx data exhibited anomaly perturbations near the epicenter and the magnetic conjugate area on 11 May and 16 May. (4) The anomaly perturbations in the thermal infrared TBB data, CSES electric field, and magnetic field data all occurred within a consistent perturbation time period and spatial proximity. We also conducted an investigation into the timing, location, and potential causes of the anomaly perturbations using the Vx ion velocity data with magnetic field –east–west component vector data, as well as the horizontal –north–south and vertical component PSD data of the electric field with the magnetic field –east–west component vector data. There may be both chemical and electromagnetic wave propagation models for the “lithosphere—atmosphere—ionosphere” coupling (LAIC) mechanism of the Maduo earthquake.

Abstract Although the power conversion efficiency values of perovskite solar cells continue to be refreshed, it is still far from the theoretical Shockley-Queisser limit. Two major issues need to be addressed, including disorder crystallization of perovskite and unbalanced interface charge extraction, which limit further improvements in device efficiency. Herein, we develop a thermally polymerized additive as the polymer template in the perovskite film, which can form monolithic perovskite grain and a unique “Mortise-Tenon” structure after spin-coating hole-transport layer. Importantly, the suppressed non-radiative recombination and balanced interface charge extraction benefit from high-quality perovskite crystals and Mortise-Tenon structure, resulting in enhanced open-circuit voltage and fill-factor of the device. The PSCs achieve certified efficiency of 24.55% and maintain >95% initial efficiency over 1100 h in accordance with the ISOS-L-2 protocol, as well as excellent endurance according to the ISOS-D-3 accelerated aging test.

Abstract The basic leucine zipper (bZIP) transcription factor (TF) is widespread among eukaryotes and serves different roles in fungal processes including nutrient utilization, growth, stress responses and development. The oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) is an important and widely cultivated edible mushroom worldwide; nevertheless, reports are lacking on the identification or function of bZIP gene family members in P. ostreatus. Herein, 11 bZIPs on 6 P. ostreatus chromosomes were systematically identified, which were classified into 3 types according to their protein sequences. Phylogenetic analysis of PobZIPs with other fungal bZIPs indicated that PobZIPs may have differentiated late. Cis‐regulatory element analysis revealed that at least one type of stress‐response‐related element was present on each bZIP promoter. RNA‐seq and RT‐qPCR analyses revealed that bZIP expression patterns were altered under heat stress and different developmental stages. We combined results from GST‐Pull‐down, EMSA and yeast two‐hybrid assays to screen a key heat stress‐responsive candidate gene PobZIP3. PobZIP3 overexpression in P. ostreatus enhanced tolerance to high temperature and cultivation assays revealed that PobZIP3 positively regulates the development of P. ostreatus. RNA‐seq analysis showed that PobZIP3 plays a role in glucose metabolism pathways, antioxidant enzyme activity and sexual reproduction. These results may support future functional studies of oyster mushroom bZIP TFs.

Excitotoxicity represents the primary cause of neuronal death following spinal cord injury (SCI). While autophagy plays a critical and intricate role in SCI, the specific mechanism underlying the relationship between excitotoxicity and autophagy in SCI has been largely overlooked. In this study, we isolated primary spinal cord neurons from neonatal rats and induced excitotoxic neuronal injury by high concentrations of glutamic acid, mimicking an excitotoxic injury model. Subsequently, we performed transcriptome sequencing. Leveraging machine learning algorithms, including weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA), random forest analysis (RF), and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator analysis (LASSO), we conducted a comprehensive investigation into key genes associated with spinal cord neuron injury. We also utilized protein-protein interaction network (PPI) analysis to identify pivotal proteins regulating key gene expression and analyzed key genes from public datasets (GSE2599, GSE20907, GSE45006, and GSE174549). Our findings revealed that six genes-Anxa2, S100a10, Ccng1, Timp1, Hspb1, and Lgals3-were significantly upregulated not only in vitro in neurons subjected to excitotoxic injury but also in rats with subacute SCI. Furthermore, Hspb1 and Lgals3 were closely linked to neuronal autophagy induced by excitotoxicity. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of excitotoxicity and autophagy, offering potential targets and a theoretical foundation for SCI diagnosis and treatment.

We characterize the multiphase circumgalactic medium (CGM) and galaxy properties at z = 6.0–6.5 in four quasar fields from the James Webb Space Telescope A SPectroscopic survey of biased halos In the Reionization Era (ASPIRE) program. We use the Very Large Telescope/X-shooter spectra of quasar J0305–3150 to identify one new metal absorber at z = 6.2713 with multiple transitions (O i , Mg ii , Fe ii, and C ii ). They are combined with the published absorbing systems in Davies et al. at the same redshift range to form a sample of nine metal absorbers at z = 6.03–6.49. We identify eight galaxies within 1000 km s ^−1 and 350 kpc around the absorbing gas from the ASPIRE spectroscopic data, with their redshifts secured by [O iii ] ( λ λ 4959, 5007) doublets and H β emission lines. Our spectral energy distribution fitting indicates that the absorbing galaxies have stellar masses ranging from 10 ^7.2 to 10 ^8.8 M _⊙ and metallicity between 0.02 and 0.4 solar. Notably, the z = 6.2713 system in the J0305–3150 field resides in a galaxy overdensity region, which contains two (tentatively) merging galaxies within 350 kpc and seven galaxies within 1 Mpc. We measure the relative abundances of α elements to iron ([ α /Fe]) and find that the CGM gas in the most overdense region exhibits a lower [ α /Fe] ratio. Our modeling of the galaxy’s chemical abundance favors a top-heavy stellar initial mass function and hints that we may be witnessing the contribution of the first generation of Population III stars to the CGM at the end of the reionization epoch.

IntroductionThe health issues that afflict middle-aged people and older individuals are a significant factor that affects their quality of life. It is crucial to investigate the impact of health shocks on the subjective wellbeing of this demographic and the mechanisms that underlie this impact to promote healthy aging.MethodsThis study utilized data from the China Family Panel Study in 2018 and 2020 to analyze the effects of HSs and their categories on the subjective wellbeing of middle-aged people and older individuals using the propensity score matching difference-in-differences method. Additionally, the study explored the mediating role of social participation.ResultsThe findings indicate that health shocks, both chronic and acute, diminish the subjective wellbeing of middle-aged people and older adults. Furthermore, these shocks have a more significant negative effect on the subjective wellbeing of individuals aged 60 and above, women in the middle-aged and older demographic, individuals in rural areas who belong to the middle-aged and older age groups, and individuals possessing activities of daily living. The mechanism analysis revealed that health shocks, both chronic and acute, reduce the subjective wellbeing of middle-aged people and older individuals by disrupting partnerships.DiscussionLowering the possibility of health shocks, the government should build a strong health management system and improve the health insurance system to enable timely treatment for persons suffering from health shocks. Individuals and families should live healthy lives and engage in social activities to avoid health shocks and improve subjective wellbeing.

Ginkgo biloba is widely planted as a colorful foliage tree, and its leaf can be used as a biomass energy source, but it has been underutilized for a long time. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of garden waste as a substrate component in the cultivation process of the king oyster mushroom (Pleurotus eryngii), with the goal of enhancing both the yield of P. eryngii and the efficiency of energy use. The percentages of G. biloba leaf powder in the substrate were 10.5% and 21% to replace sawdust or sugarcane bagasse in a typical substrate. A substrate formulation that could completely replace sawdust and sugarcane bagasse was selected by analyzing mycelial growth rate, days of production, fruiting body length, biological efficiency, yield, stipe thickness, pileus diameter and laccase activity. The results showed that Y1 (treatment with 21% G. biloba leaf powder and sugarcane bagasse) had the highest yield (303.1 ± 31.9 g), which was higher than that of CK (control) (259.3 ± 37.4 g). The crude fiber content of the samples grown on substrate Y1 (as 7.43%) was higher than CK (7.37%). In addition, P. eryngii grown on substrate Y1 had the highest laccase activity for the complete colonization of the mycelium. Thus, these findings suggest that G. biloba leaf powder represents a viable and economical supplement for enhancing both the yield and quality of P. eryngii.

In this paper, a novel method was proposed for the synthesis of Cu2S on copper mesh via electrolysis in SRB culture medium. It was found that following electrolysis in SRB medium, squamous-like Cu2S arrays were obtained on the copper mesh, and the Cu2S loading contents varied with the electrolyzing parameters. The resultant Cu2S on copper mesh in SRB (CSCM-SRB) with the highest catalytic MB degradation properties was produced by electrolysis at 3.75 mA/cm2 for 900 s. The optimized MB-degrading conditions were determined to be 1.2 cm2/mL CSCM-SRB with 0.05 M H2O2 at 35 °C when pH = 6, under which the degradation of MB reached over 99% after 120 min of reaction. Disinfecting properties was also proven by antibacterial tests, revealing that an almost 100% antibacterial rate against E. coli was obtained after 8 min. The organic compounds produced by SRB adsorbed on CSCM-SRB strongly promoted the degradation of MB. Furthermore, possible Fenton-like mechanisms of CSCM-SRB were proposed, illustrating that ·O2−, ·OH, and 1O2 acted as the main functional species during Fenton-like reactions, leading to effective MB degradation and high antibacterial properties. Finally, a simple device for wastewater treatment was designed, providing possible applications in real environments.

Methylmercury is a neurotoxic compound that can enter rice fields through rainfall or irrigation with contaminated wastewater, and then contaminate the human food chain through the consumption of rice. Flooded paddy soil has a porous structure that facilitates air exchange with the atmosphere, but the presence of trace amounts of oxygen in flooded rice field soil and its impact on microbial-mediated formation of methylmercury is still unclear. We compared the microbial communities and their functions in oxygen-depleted and oxygen-limited paddy soil. We discovered that oxygen-limited paddy soil had higher methylmercury concentration, which was strongly correlated with soil properties and methylation potential. Compared with oxygen-depleted soil, oxygen-limited soil altered the microbial composition based on 16 S rRNA sequences, but not based on hgcA sequences. Moreover, oxygen-limited soil enhanced microbial activity significantly, increasing the abundance of more than half of the KEGG pathways, especially the metabolic pathways that might be involved in methylation. Our study unveils how microbial communities influence methylmercury formation in oxygen-limited paddy soil. Environmental implications: This study examined how low oxygen input affects microbial-induced MeHg formation in anaerobic paddy soil. We found that oxygen-limited soil produced more MeHg than oxygen-depleted soil. Oxygen input altered the microbial community structure of 16 S rRNA sequencing in anaerobic paddy soil, but had little impact on the hgcA sequencing community structure. Microbial activity and metabolic functions related to MeHg formation were also higher in oxygen-limited paddy soil. We suggest that oxygen may not be a limiting factor for Hg methylators, and that insufficient oxygen input in flooded paddy soil increases the risk of human exposure to MeHg from rice consumption.

Abstract Lithium (Li) metal anodes have attracted extensive attention due to their ultrahigh theoretical capacity and low potential. However, the uneven deposition of Li near the unstable electrode/electrolyte interfaces leads to the growth of Li dendrites and the degradation of active electrodes. Herein, we directly fluorinate alkyne‐containing conjugated microporous polymers (ACMPs) microspheres with fluorine gas (F2) to introduce a novel fluorinated interlayer as an interfacial stabilizer in lithium metal batteries. Using density functional theory methods, it is found that as‐prepared fluorinated ACMP (FACMP) has abundant partially ionic C–F bonds. The C–F bonds with electrochemical lability yield remarkable lithiophilicity during cycling. The in situ reactions between the active C–F bonds and Li ions enable transfer of lithium fluoride microcrystals to the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layers, guaranteeing effective ionic distribution and smooth Li deposition. Consequently, Li metal electrodes with the fluorinated interlayers demonstrate excellent cycling performances in both half‐batteries and full cells with a lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide electrolyte as well as a nonfluorinated lithium bis(oxalate)borate electrolyte system. This strategy is highly significant in customizable SEI layers to stabilize electrode interfaces and ensure high utilization of Li metal anodes, especially in a nonfluorinated electrolyte.