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Objectives: We performed a clinical study comparing early-onset and late-onset conventional colorectal adenomas (CCRAs) since little is known about the differences in their characteristics. Methods: Pearson's chi-square test and the Kruskal‒Wallis test were used to compare basic information. MCAR tests and multiple imputation were performed to complete missing values. Multivariate logistic analysis and propensity score matching were used to identify the risk factors for recurrence. Results: We included 2793 patients (688 with early-onset CCRAs and 2105 with late-onset CCRAs) from January 2017 to December 2021. Patients with early-onset CCRAs had higher levels of Hb, ALB, and triglycerides but lower HDL levels and N/L ratios. Moreover, we found that more early-onset CCRAs were in the left colon than late-onset CCRAs, and the size of early-onset CCRAs was larger. Early-onset CCRAs tended to lack pedicles compared to late-onset CCRAs. Additionally, the ratio of EMR and APC in early-onset CCRAs was higher than that in late-onset CCRAs, and the ratio of ESD and surgery for late-onset CCRAs was higher. We found that age ≥ 50 years, abnormal vessels, drinking alcohol, and DB and ALB levels may be risk factors for recurrence, while the LDL level may be a protective factor. Finally, analysis of cumulative recurrence rates after PSM showed that patients with late-onset CCRAs exhibited higher recurrence rates (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Compared with late-onset CCRAs, early-onset CCRAs were associated with higher triglyceride levels, lower HDL levels, and larger tumor volumes. Age ≥ 50 years, abnormal vessels, alcohol consumption, and DB and ALB levels were independent risk factors for recurrence of CCRAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of a spike on the aerodynamic interference reduction for a multibody configuration were investigated numerically. A two-stage-to-orbit (TSTO) vehicle was selected as a classic multibody configuration. A spike was placed on the nose of the orbiter to change the position and shape of the shock wave. The peak pressure and peak heat flux on the booster upper surface were reduced by 39.5% and 21.5%, respectively, after the spike was installed. The peak pressure and peak heat flux on the orbiter nose were reduced by 78.2% and 28.4%, respectively. The total drag coefficient of the whole model was reduced by 27.3%. The results show that a spike is able to reduce the shock–shock interference and the shock wave–boundary layer interference (SWBLI) between two stages without changing the aerodynamic configuration of the aircraft. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human herpesvirus type 8 (HHV‐8) unrelated primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) like lymphoma (PEL‐LL) is an exceedingly rare non‐Hodgkin lymphoma with no characteristic symptoms and consensus on the optimal treatment. This case report presents a 55‐year‐old man with prior HBV‐related Child‐Pugh B liver cirrhosis and developing activity‐related dyspnea. A moderate amount of pleural effusion was identified without tumor masses, and cytological studies confirmed a diagnosis of PEL‐LL. The patient received rituximab and lenalidomide, albeit with HBV infection, and is currently on maintenance therapy with resolving symptoms but without HBV reactivation. Hence, the R2 protocol (rituximab and lenalidomide) might be clinically effective and safe for PEL‐LL patients with HBV infection and Child‐Pugh B liver cirrhosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the effectiveness and safety of robot-assisted artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) implantation surgery for female patients with severe stress urinary incontinences (SUI) by performing a systematic literature review.Methods: A comprehensive search was carried out across multiple databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science Clarivate, Cochrane library, Medicine and clinicaltrials.gov between inception to March 2022. Studies were included if they met the inclusion criteria and were evaluated by different quality evaluation methods according to study types. P value and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of outcome measures mainly including continence rates, intraoperative and postoperative complication rates were pooled to present the efficacy and safety.Results: A total of 9 studies with 157 participants were finally included. Eight retrospective and 1 prospective study met the inclusion criteria with moderate and high evidence levels. The pooled results showed that patients with robot-assisted AUS implantation treatment, presented great continence rate (P = .83, 95%CI:0.76-0.89) but high complication rate (Intraoperation: 0.21 95%CI:0.11-0.34; Postoperation: 0.20 95%CI: 0.12-0.29). In addition, subgroup analysis of 2 approaches showed that compared with the posterior approach, the traditional surgical approach had better efficacy and safety.Conclusion: The results of this study indicated that robot-assisted AUS implantation surgery improved SUI patients' urinary continence, but the complication rates were high, which mainly included intraoperative vaginal and bladder injury and postoperative acute urinary retention. More evidence from prospective studies is needed to provide guidance for clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The additional energy consumption caused by the incompatibility between existing electric vehicle (EV) powertrain characteristics and driving conditions inevitably curbs the promotion and development of EVs. Hence, there is an urgent demand for the driving-adapt strategy, which aims to minimize EV energy consumption due to both powertrain characteristics and driving conditions. In order to fully explore the EV driving-adapt potential, this paper equips the EV with a magneto-rheological fluid transmission (MRFT). First, an EV dynamics analysis of the driving conditions, the powertrain model considering the energy transmission process, and the driving-adapt transmission model considering magneto-rheological fluid (MRF) is conducted to clarify the quantitative relation between the driving conditions and the powertrain. Second, a driving-adapt optimization strategy in the specific driving condition is proposed. Finally, the results and discussions are executed to study (i) the determination of the MRFT fixed speed ratio and variable speed ratio range, (ii) the application potential analysis of the proposed strategy, and (iii) the feasibility analysis of the proposed strategy. The results indicate that (i) the urban driving condition has higher requirements for the MRFT, (ii) EVs equipped with MRFT achieve the expected driving performance at the most states of charge (SOCs) and environmental temperatures, except for the SOC lower than 10%, and (iii) the driving time with efficiency greater than 80% can be increased by the MRFT from 10.1% to 58.7% and from 66.8% to 88.8% in the urban and suburban driving conditions, respectively. Thus, the proposed driving-adapt strategy for the EV equipped with the MRFT has the potential to alleviate or eliminate the traffic problems caused by the incompatibility of the EV powertrain characteristics and the driving conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Em FABP1 highly expressed in E. multilocularis and regards as candidate molecules. • emfabp1 encodes 133 amino acids, harbor typical β-barrel structure of FABP family. • Em FABP1 expressed in protoscoleces, germinal layer cells, cyst fluid and exosomes. • r Em FABP1 modulates phagocytose and immune function in macrophages. Fatty acid binding proteins (FABPs) have emerged as attractive vaccination candidates for several platyhelminth species. To explore the physiological functions of Echinococcus multilocularis (E. multilocularis) FABP, the molecular characteristics of Em FABP1 were analyzed by online software, and the regulatory roles of r Em FABP1 protein in murine macrophages were further investigated. The emfabp1 gene encodes 133 amino acids with the characteristic β-barrel shape of the cytoplasmic FABP family. Natural Em FABP1 protein is predominantly expressed in protoscoleces tegument and germinal layer cells and is also detected in cyst fluid and exosomes of E. multilocularis. r Em FABP1 protein demonstrated a notable suppression of phagocytic activity and nitric oxide production in murine macrophages. Additionally, the protein was observed to promote apoptosis and regulate cytokine expression in macrophages. These findings suggested that E. multilocularis FABP1 is critical in modifying macrophage physiological processes and that this protein may have immunomodulatory roles during infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, bimetallic Zn/Co zeolitic imidazole frameworks (Zn/Co-ZIFs) with various Zn/Co ratios have been successfully synthesized via a facile coprecipitation method, and then were converted into a series of N-doped bamboo-like carbon nanotubes (CNTs) encapsulated in Co nanoparticles with the aid of dicyandiamide after an annealing process. Results show that when the Zn/Co ratios in the Zn/Co-ZIF are 2:1 and 1:2, the morphology of ZIFs is hexagonal-star-like shape while it presents rod-like shape at the Zn/Co ratio of 1:1. The corresponding derivatives of these ZIFs after carbonization are identified as Co 3 ZnC/Co@CNTs, Co@CNTs-12, and Co@CNTs-11, and their microwave absorption performances are investigated at the same time. Among these as-synthesized composites, Co 3 ZnC/Co@CNTs exhibits the best microwave absorption behavior with a minimum reflection loss (RL min) of −65.34 dB and an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 5.35 GHz at a low filler content of 15 wt% and a thickness of 2.2 mm. Moreover, using CST to analyze Co 3 ZnC/Co@CNTs the radar cross section (RCS) was simulated, and the reduction value of RCS was −31.95 dB m2, and effective absorption can achieve full angle coverage. The outstanding microwave absorption capabilities of Co 3 ZnC/Co@CNTs can be credited to the effective impedance matching, robust interface polarization, and significant conduction loss. This paper also provides a strategy for strengthening the microwave absorption ability of absorbers through the interface engineering. • The morphology of ZIF derivatives was controlled by altering the ratio of Zn2+ to Co2+. • Co 3 ZnC/Co@CNTs showed an excellent EMWA behavior at a low filler loading of 15 wt%. • The RL min can reach −65.44 dB with an EAB of 5.35 GHz at 2.2 mm. • The enhanced EMWA behavior was ascribed to magnetic-dielectric synergy and interface engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Altered gut metabolites, especially short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), in feces and plasma are observed in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD).We aimed to investigate the colonic expression of two SCFA receptors, free fatty acid receptor (FFAR)2 and FFAR3, and gut barrier integrity in patients with PD and correlations with clinical severity.In this retrospective study, colonic biopsy specimens were collected from 37 PD patients and 34 unaffected controls. Of this cohort, 31 participants (14 PD, 17 controls) underwent a series of colon biopsies. Colonic expression of FFAR2, FFAR3, and the tight junction marker ZO-1 were assayed by immunofluorescence staining. The You Only Look Once (version 8, YOLOv8) algorithm was used for automated detection and segmentation of immunostaining signal. PD motor function was assessed with the Movement Disorder Society (MDS)-Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), and constipation was assessed using Rome-IV criteria.Compared with controls, PD patients had significantly lower colonic expression of ZO-1 (p < 0.01) and FFAR2 (p = 0.01). On serial biopsy, colonic expression of FFAR2 and FFAR3 was reduced in the pre-motor stage before PD diagnosis (both p < 0.01). MDS-UPDRS motor scores did not correlate with colonic marker levels. Constipation severity negatively correlated with colonic ZO-1 levels (r = -0.49, p = 0.02).Colonic expression of ZO-1 and FFAR2 is lower in PD patients compared with unaffected controls, and FFAR2 and FFAR3 levels decline in the pre-motor stage of PD. Our findings implicate a leaky gut phenomenon in PD and reinforce that gut metabolites may contribute to the process of PD.Objective: Altered gut metabolites, especially short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), in feces and plasma are observed in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD).We aimed to investigate the colonic expression of two SCFA receptors, free fatty acid receptor (FFAR)2 and FFAR3, and gut barrier integrity in patients with PD and correlations with clinical severity.In this retrospective study, colonic biopsy specimens were collected from 37 PD patients and 34 unaffected controls. Of this cohort, 31 participants (14 PD, 17 controls) underwent a series of colon biopsies. Colonic expression of FFAR2, FFAR3, and the tight junction marker ZO-1 were assayed by immunofluorescence staining. The You Only Look Once (version 8, YOLOv8) algorithm was used for automated detection and segmentation of immunostaining signal. PD motor function was assessed with the Movement Disorder Society (MDS)-Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), and constipation was assessed using Rome-IV criteria.Compared with controls, PD patients had significantly lower colonic expression of ZO-1 (p < 0.01) and FFAR2 (p = 0.01). On serial biopsy, colonic expression of FFAR2 and FFAR3 was reduced in the pre-motor stage before PD diagnosis (both p < 0.01). MDS-UPDRS motor scores did not correlate with colonic marker levels. Constipation severity negatively correlated with colonic ZO-1 levels (r = -0.49, p = 0.02).Colonic expression of ZO-1 and FFAR2 is lower in PD patients compared with unaffected controls, and FFAR2 and FFAR3 levels decline in the pre-motor stage of PD. Our findings implicate a leaky gut phenomenon in PD and reinforce that gut metabolites may contribute to the process of PD.Methods: Altered gut metabolites, especially short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), in feces and plasma are observed in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD).We aimed to investigate the colonic expression of two SCFA receptors, free fatty acid receptor (FFAR)2 and FFAR3, and gut barrier integrity in patients with PD and correlations with clinical severity.In this retrospective study, colonic biopsy specimens were collected from 37 PD patients and 34 unaffected controls. Of this cohort, 31 participants (14 PD, 17 controls) underwent a series of colon biopsies. Colonic expression of FFAR2, FFAR3, and the tight junction marker ZO-1 were assayed by immunofluorescence staining. The You Only Look Once (version 8, YOLOv8) algorithm was used for automated detection and segmentation of immunostaining signal. PD motor function was assessed with the Movement Disorder Society (MDS)-Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), and constipation was assessed using Rome-IV criteria.Compared with controls, PD patients had significantly lower colonic expression of ZO-1 (p < 0.01) and FFAR2 (p = 0.01). On serial biopsy, colonic expression of FFAR2 and FFAR3 was reduced in the pre-motor stage before PD diagnosis (both p < 0.01). MDS-UPDRS motor scores did not correlate with colonic marker levels. Constipation severity negatively correlated with colonic ZO-1 levels (r = -0.49, p = 0.02).Colonic expression of ZO-1 and FFAR2 is lower in PD patients compared with unaffected controls, and FFAR2 and FFAR3 levels decline in the pre-motor stage of PD. Our findings implicate a leaky gut phenomenon in PD and reinforce that gut metabolites may contribute to the process of PD.Results: Altered gut metabolites, especially short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), in feces and plasma are observed in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD).We aimed to investigate the colonic expression of two SCFA receptors, free fatty acid receptor (FFAR)2 and FFAR3, and gut barrier integrity in patients with PD and correlations with clinical severity.In this retrospective study, colonic biopsy specimens were collected from 37 PD patients and 34 unaffected controls. Of this cohort, 31 participants (14 PD, 17 controls) underwent a series of colon biopsies. Colonic expression of FFAR2, FFAR3, and the tight junction marker ZO-1 were assayed by immunofluorescence staining. The You Only Look Once (version 8, YOLOv8) algorithm was used for automated detection and segmentation of immunostaining signal. PD motor function was assessed with the Movement Disorder Society (MDS)-Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), and constipation was assessed using Rome-IV criteria.Compared with controls, PD patients had significantly lower colonic expression of ZO-1 (p < 0.01) and FFAR2 (p = 0.01). On serial biopsy, colonic expression of FFAR2 and FFAR3 was reduced in the pre-motor stage before PD diagnosis (both p < 0.01). MDS-UPDRS motor scores did not correlate with colonic marker levels. Constipation severity negatively correlated with colonic ZO-1 levels (r = -0.49, p = 0.02).Colonic expression of ZO-1 and FFAR2 is lower in PD patients compared with unaffected controls, and FFAR2 and FFAR3 levels decline in the pre-motor stage of PD. Our findings implicate a leaky gut phenomenon in PD and reinforce that gut metabolites may contribute to the process of PD.Conclusions: Altered gut metabolites, especially short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), in feces and plasma are observed in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD).We aimed to investigate the colonic expression of two SCFA receptors, free fatty acid receptor (FFAR)2 and FFAR3, and gut barrier integrity in patients with PD and correlations with clinical severity.In this retrospective study, colonic biopsy specimens were collected from 37 PD patients and 34 unaffected controls. Of this cohort, 31 participants (14 PD, 17 controls) underwent a series of colon biopsies. Colonic expression of FFAR2, FFAR3, and the tight junction marker ZO-1 were assayed by immunofluorescence staining. The You Only Look Once (version 8, YOLOv8) algorithm was used for automated detection and segmentation of immunostaining signal. PD motor function was assessed with the Movement Disorder Society (MDS)-Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), and constipation was assessed using Rome-IV criteria.Compared with controls, PD patients had significantly lower colonic expression of ZO-1 (p < 0.01) and FFAR2 (p = 0.01). On serial biopsy, colonic expression of FFAR2 and FFAR3 was reduced in the pre-motor stage before PD diagnosis (both p < 0.01). MDS-UPDRS motor scores did not correlate with colonic marker levels. Constipation severity negatively correlated with colonic ZO-1 levels (r = -0.49, p = 0.02).Colonic expression of ZO-1 and FFAR2 is lower in PD patients compared with unaffected controls, and FFAR2 and FFAR3 levels decline in the pre-motor stage of PD. Our findings implicate a leaky gut phenomenon in PD and reinforce that gut metabolites may contribute to the process of PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ammonia is a common toxic gas in industrial and agricultural production, which will cause harm to the environment and human health in certain extent. Here, a novel fluorescent probe (R)- 1 based on 1,1′-binaphthol (BINOL) was synthesized for real-time, on-site and quantitative detection of ammonia. The mechanism study shows that the functional groups of –CHO and –OH on (R)- 1 interact with ammonia, which changes the electronic state of the probe molecule and excites strong fluorescence. A test strip for rapid detection of ammonia was developed, which changed from light yellow to reddish brown under natural light after interacting with ammonia, thus realizing the rapid detection and easy visualization of ammonia. Meanwhile, bioimaging experiments shows that probe (R)- 1 can detect exogenous ammonia in cells. [Display omitted] • Specific selective fluorescence recognition of ammonia. • Fast response time (300 s) and high sensitivity (0.96 ppm). • A test strip for real-time and visual detection of ammonia. • Exogenous ammonia fluorescence imaging of cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In aerodynamic shape optimization, a high-fidelity (HF) simulation is generally more accurate but more time-consuming than a low-fidelity (LF) simulation. To take advantage of both HF and LF simulations, a multi-fidelity convolutional neural network (CNN) surrogate model with transfer learning (MFCNN-TL) is proposed, which integrates different fidelity information through fine-tuning and adaptively learns their nonlinear mapping. The proposed surrogate model provides a new optimization framework, which maps the relation between shape parameters and aerodynamic performance. In the optimization framework, the HF model with a fine grid and the LF model with a coarse grid is used, respectively. In each optimization iteration, a multi-fidelity infilling strategy is adopted, and HF samples and LF samples are added to update the surrogate model. Finally, it is applied to the aerodynamic shape optimization of NACA0012 airfoil and RAE2822 airfoil. The optimization results show that the proposed MFCNN-TL surrogate model can significantly reduce the calculation cost and improve the optimization efficiency compared with the single-fidelity surrogate model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recent investigations have suggested that long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) MIR22HG is commonly dysregulated in multiple types of malignancies. Nevertheless, the role of these MIR22HG in human colorectal carcinoma (CRC) are not well explored. Materials and Methods: Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and in situ hybridization (ISH) assay were used to measure the expression of MIR22HG. 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT), flow cytometry, and migration, as well as invasion assays, were utilized to determine the roles of MIR22HG on growth, apoptosis, migration, and invasiveness of CRC cell. The expression of E-cadherin and N-cadherin was measured using Western blotting and immunohistochemistry staining assay. CRC cell growth in vivo was analyzed using nude mice xenograft. Results: The qPCR and ISH assay revealed that MIR22HG was downregulated in CRC sample compared with in normal tissue. MIR22HG was also significantly downexpressed in CRC cells compared with that in normal colonic epithelial cell line. Overexpression of MIR22HG inhibited the growth, migration ability, and invasiveness of CRC cell in vitro. In addition, MIR22HG suppressed the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and induced the apoptosis of human CRC cell. Moreover, the authors demonstrated that MIR22HG inhibited the tumor growth of CRC cell and regulated the expression of EMT markers (E-cadherin and N-cadherin) in vivo. Conclusion: Altogether, these results imply that lncRNA MIR22HG restrained the aggressive phenotypes of CRC cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Objectives Design Methods Results Conclusions Relevance to Clinical Practice Catheter‐related thrombosis is a common complication of the peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) in neonates, leading to unintended tube removal and significantly affecting neonatal health and safety. Despite widespread reporting on the estimated occurrence and factors contributing to neonatal PICC‐related thrombosis, these findings have not been synthesized.The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence and risk factors of neonatal PICC‐related thrombosis.Systematic literature review and meta‐analysis.Two independent researchers systematically explored multiple databases—such as PubMed, Medline, Embase and the Cochrane Library—from their inception until October 2023. Our study aggregates and scrutinizes studies specifically addressing the incidence and risk factors of neonatal PICC‐related thrombosis. Employing the RevMan 5.3 software, a meta‐analysis was executed to determine the incidence of both thrombosis and odds ratios (OR), accompanied by their respective 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the risk factors.A total of 327 articles were screened, and data from 24 studies were used in synthesis. Neonatal PICC‐related thrombosis incidence varied from 0.23% to 17.91%. The pooled incidence was 2% (95% CI: 1%–2%; I2 = 94%; p < .0001). The study identified 12 risk factors, including insertion sites in the lower extremities (OR = 0.22; 95% CI: 0.09–0.56; p = .001), gestational age <28 weeks, abdominal pathology, fresh frozen plasma by day 5 > 50 mL/kg, PICC tip location (proximal placement), two lumens, three lumens, prolonged hospital stay, infection, mothers' use of anticoagulants, patients with cardiac insufficiency and being twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome donor.The analysis indicates an overall pooled incidence of neonatal PICC‐related thrombosis of 2%. Twelve factors were identified as risks associated with neonatal PICC‐related thrombosis. Understanding the risk factors can provide evidence‐based recommendations for improving awareness, control and treatment and better nursing management.This systematic review and meta‐analysis illuminates the incidence and risk factors linked to neonatal PICC‐related thrombosis, delivering essential insights pivotal for clinical decision‐making and enhancing patient care within neonatal health care settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • 1D N-doped Co@C nanowires with an adjustable carbon content were synthesized. • A dual-control strategy was used to modulate EMWA behavior of Co@C nanowires. • Co@C nanowires showed an excellent EMWA behavior at a filler loading of 8 wt%. • The minimum reflection loss of Co@C nanowires can reach – 69.56 dB at 2.49 mm. • The effective absorption bandwidth is 7.055 GHz at 2.46 mm. Currently, the preparation of electromagnetic wave absorption (EMWA) materials with low load, thin thickness, strong absorption and wide band remains an important challenge. In this work, one-dimensional (1D) N-doped Co@C nanowires with the excellent EMWA behavior have been synthesized by pyrolyzing cobalt-nitrilotriacetic acid chelate (Co-NTAC) nanowires prepared via a hydrothermal method. Then, the influences of the amount of glucose and annealing temperature on the microstructure and EMWA property of Co@C nanowires have also been investigated. Our results show that Co@C-2 exhibits a strong absorption of – 69.56 dB (absorbing 99.99999 % electromagnetic wave) with an EAB of 7.055 GHz at only 8 wt% filler loading. In addition, CST simulation shows that the maximum radar cross section (RCS) value of Co@C-2 can be reduced by 29.8 dB m2. The outstanding EMWA property is ascribed to the synergistic effect of the dielectric and magnetic loss. Moreover, the unique 1D structure of Co@C nanowires is also benefit for attenuating electromagnetic (EM) wave. Therefore, this study designed an easy dual-control strategy (by adjusting the amount of glucose and annealing temperature) to obtain the high-performance EMWA materials, which can provide an effective method for the synthesis of other absorbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the recent advancements in wearables and sensing technology, health scientists are increasingly developing mobile health (mHealth) interventions. In mHealth interventions, mobile devices are used to deliver treatment to individuals as they go about their daily lives. These treatments are generally designed to impact a near time, proximal outcome such as stress or physical activity. The mHealth intervention policies, often called just-in-time adaptive interventions, are decision rules that map an individual's current state (e.g., individual's past behaviors as well as current observations of time, location, social activity, stress, and urges to smoke) to a particular treatment at each of many time points. The vast majority of current mHealth interventions deploy expert-derived policies. In this article, we provide an approach for conducting inference about the performance of one or more such policies using historical data collected under a possibly different policy. Our measure of performance is the average of proximal outcomes over a long time period should the particular mHealth policy be followed. We provide an estimator as well as confidence intervals. This work is motivated by HeartSteps, an mHealth physical activity intervention. for this article are available online. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post-translational modifications (PTMs) play pivotal roles in controlling the stability and activity of the tumor suppressor p53 in response to distinct stressors. Here we report an unexpected finding of a short chain fatty acid modification of p53 in human cells. Crotonic acid (CA) treatment induces p53 crotonylation, but surprisingly reduces its protein, but not mRNA level, leading to inhibition of p53 activity in a dose dependent fashion. Surprisingly this crotonylation targets serine 46, instead of any predicted lysine residues, of p53, as detected in TCEP-probe labeled crotonylation and anti-crotonylated peptide antibody reaction assays. This is further confirmed by substitution of serine 46 with alanine, which abolishes p53 crotonylation in vitro and in cells. CA increases p53-dependent glycolytic activity, and augments cancer cell proliferation in response to metabolic or DNA damage stress. Since serine 46 is only found in human p53, our studies unveil an unconventional PTM unique for human p53, impairing its activity in response to CA. Because CA is likely produced by the gut microbiome, our results also predict that this type of PTM might play a role in early human colorectal neoplasia development by negating p53 activity without mutation of this tumor suppressor gene. • p53 in human cells is crotonylated in response to crotonic acid. • This crotonylation is detected independently by a Pan anti-crotonylated peptide antibody and a TCEP probe. • This crotonylation surprisingly occurs at the serine 46 residue of p53. • Substitution of serine 46, but not any of predicted lysines, by alanine abolishes this p53 crotonylation. • Crotonic acid increases glycolytic activity and cancer cell proliferation by impairing p53 activity in human cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

p53-R249S (p53-RS) is frequently detected in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) that is highly associated with hepatitis B infection and aflatoxin B1 exposure. Our previous study showed that CDK4/Cyclin D1 phosphorylates p53-RS at the cancer-derived Ser249 and promotes its interaction with c-Myc in the nucleus, consequently enhancing c-Myc-dependent ribosomal biogenesis and HCC cell proliferation. Here we explored the possibility of co-targeting CDK4 and p53-RS with available small molecule inhibitors as a potential combined therapy for HCC that harbor p53-RS. Indeed, co-treatment of p53-RS-containing, but not wild-type p53 or p53-null, HCC cells with PD-0332991 (PD), a CDK4/6 inhibitor, and CP-31398 (CP), a compound that can restore the intrinsic conformation and transcriptional activity of mutant p53, drastically repressed the c-Myc activation function of p53-RS. This combination of PD with CP exhibited a synergistic effect on the inhibition of HCC cell growth in a p53-RS dependent manner, especially at a lower dose. These results suggest that co-targeting CDK4 and p53-RS can serve as a potential approach for the development of an effective therapy for HCC that harbor p53-RS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hospital beds are a critical but limited resource shared between distinct classes of elective patients. Urgent elective patients are more sensitive to delays and should be treated immediately, whereas regular patients can wait for an extended time. Public hospitals in countries like China need to maximize their revenue and at the same time equitably allocate their limited bed capacity between distinct patient classes. Consequently, hospital bed managers are under great pressure to optimally allocate the available bed capacity to all classes of patients, particularly considering random patient arrivals and the length of patient stay. To address the difficulties, we propose data-driven stochastic optimization models that can directly utilize historical observations and feature data of capacity and demand. First, we propose a single-period model assuming known capacity; since it recovers and improves the current decision-making process, it may be deployed immediately. We develop a nonparametric kernel optimization method and demonstrate that an optimal allocation can be effectively obtained with one year's data. Next, we consider the dynamic transition of system state and extend the study to a multiperiod model that allows random capacity; this further brings in substantial improvement. Sensitivity analysis also offers interesting managerial insights. For example, it is optimal to allocate more beds to urgent patients on Mondays and Thursdays than on other weekdays; this is in sharp contrast to the current myopic practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • The dark OH was produced from polluted river sediments oxygenation. • The cumulative OH concentrations were 57–1479 μmol/kg. • Oxygenation of river sediments was an important source of OH production. • Sediment Fe(II) was the main contributor to OH production. • Production of OH was important for carbon cycling and micropollutant fate. Abstract Hydroxyl radical (OH) is the most powerful reactive oxygen species that plays a critical role in the redox transformation of elements and contaminants. While recent advances have recognized the dark production of hydroxyl radical (OH) from oxygenation of natural waters and subsurface sediments at anoxic-oxic interfaces, much less is known regarding the dark production of OH from river sediments, the important component in environments. In this study, we collected 22 polluted river sediments spanning a large gradient and area along the main stem of Maozhou river watershed of southern China. Using a combination of field measurements, bench-scale experiments, and complementary characterization techniques, we provided robust evidence that the transportation of river sediment from anoxic to oxic conditions triggered the extensive production of OH. The cumulative OH concentrations produced within 48 h across all sediments ranged from 57 to 1479 μmol/kg (or 88–2294 μM in sediment pore water), much higher than those reported previously from subsurface sediments and anoxic waters. Sediment Fe(II) is the main contributor to OH production, although organic carbon may also contribute to a degree. Because river sediments contained abundant Fe(II) and organic carbon, and the anoxic-oxic interfaces are ubiquitous in river sediments, we expect that the extensive dark production of OH from oxygenation of river sediments is widespread and represents a previously under-appreciated source of OH production. Findings of this study provide novel insights for the understanding of carbon cycling and micropollutant fate, which are valuable for designing efficient sediment remediation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose a car-following model to ensure the car-following safety, stability, comfort and fuel-optimal with consideration of the driver's different driving habits under different headways. During the car-following state, the following vehicle's acceleration is determined by its driving strategy in different headways to fit the driving habits. When the headway is overlong, the following vehicle will shorten the headway by a comfort and fuel-optimal acceleration–uniform motion–deceleration process to ensure the stable car-following behavior. When the headway is too short, the following vehicle take emergency brake to ensure the car-following safety. When the headway is within the desired range, the following vehicle can run at a relatively steady speed since the comfort driving is an important reason for drivers to adopt a new driving behavior. The numerical results show that the proposed model can ensure the safety, stability, comfort, fuel-optimal and the consistency with the driver's driving habits under the car-following state. • A car-following model with driving habit is proposed. • A fuel-optimal driving strategy is proposed. • The relationships between the traffic situation and driving strategy are studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experiment was conducted to determine the effect of dietary supplementation with copper sulfate and cupreous N-carbamylglutamate chelate (NCG-Cu) on the growth performance, serum biochemical profile, immune response, tissue mineral distributions, and fecal excretion of minerals in nursery piglets. Eighteen healthy nursery piglets were randomly assigned to 3 dietary treatments consisting of no copper in either form (control), 650 g/t copper sulfate (650 g/t Cu) or 320 g/t NCG-Cu (320 g/t NCG-Cu) for 35 days. Pigs fed the 320 g/t NCG-Cu diet showed a significantly (P < 0.05) elevated growth rate, feed conversion efficiency, IgA and IgM levels, and decreased diarrhea rate compared to those fed the 650 g/t Cu diet. Fecal copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) were increased (P < 0.05) when pigs were fed the 650 g/t Cu diets compared with those fed the 320 g/t NCG-Cu diets. Tissue Cu has limited effects on tissue mineral distribution, except for the distribution in the spleen and liver (P < 0.05). These results indicated that 320 g/t NCG-Cu (chelated) was as effective as 650 g/t Cu (inorganic Cu) for stimulating growth and the immune response and reducing dietary fecal Cu excretion, thus reducing environmental pollution. Abbreviations: NCG: N-carbamylglutamate chelate; ADG: average daily gain; ADFI: average daily feed intake; F/G: feed to gain ratio; ALB: albumin; GLU: blood glucose; CREA: creatinine; ALP: alkaline phosphatase; ALT: alanine aminotransferase; AST: aspartate amino transferase; GLB: globulin; TC: total cholesterol; TP: total protein; urea: Urea; D-BIL: direct-acting-bilirubin; T-BIL: total bilirubin; UA: urate; CK: creatine kinase; LDH: lactate dehydrogenase; IgG: immunoglobulin G; IgA: immunoglobulin A; IgM: immunoglobulin M; C3: complement C3; LD: longissimus dorsi; ICP-OES: inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry; AA: amino acid; GIT: gastrointestinal; Cu-Met: Cu-methionine; CP: crude protein; NDF: neutral detergent fiber; ADF: acid detergent fiber. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Difference of phosphorus compounds from three substances was identified. • Most of phosphorus from suspended particulate matter were bioavailable. • Strategies of phosphorus uptake and utilization of algae were revealed. The expansion of algal bloom in surface waters is a global problem in the freshwater ecosystem. Differential reactivity of organic phosphorus (P o) compounds from organic debris, suspended particulate matter (SPM), and sediment towards hydrolysis can dictate the extent of supply often limited inorganic P (P i) for algal growth, thereby controlling the extent of bloom. Here, we combined solution P-31 nuclear magnetic resonance (31P NMR), sequential extraction, enzymatic hydrolysis, and 16S rRNA measurements to characterize speciation and biogeochemical cycling of P in Lake Erhai, China. Lower ratios of diester-P/monoester-P in SPM in January (mean 0.09) and July (0.14) than that in April (0.29) reflected the higher degree of diester-P remineralization in cold and warm months. Both H 2 O-P i and P o were significantly higher in SPM (mean 1580 mg ·kg−1 and 1618 mg ·kg−1) than those in sediment (mean 8 mg ·kg−1 and 387 mg ·kg−1). In addition, results from enzymatic hydrolysis experiments demonstrated that 61% P o in SPM and 58% in sediment in the H 2 O, NaHCO 3 , and NaOH extracts could be hydrolyzed. These results suggested that H 2 O-P i and P o from SPM were the primarily bioavailable P sources for algae. Changes of P i contents (particularly H 2 O-P i) in algae and alkaline phosphatase activity (APA) during the observation periods were likely to be controlled by the strategies of P uptake and utilization of algae. P remobilization/remineralization from SPM likely resulted from algae and bacteria (e.g., Pseudomonas). Collectively, these results provide important insights that SPM P could sustain the algal blooms even if the dissolved P was depleted in the water column. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent concepts suggest that the neuropathological hallmark of Parkinson's disease (PD) may in part originate from the enteric nervous system. We evaluated the frequency of functional gastrointestinal disorders in PD patients using Rome IV criteria and correlated the clinical severity of PD. PD patients and matched controls were recruited between January 2020 and December 2021. Rome IV criteria were used to diagnose constipation and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Severity of PD motor symptoms was evaluated using UPDRS part III scores and non-motor symptoms using Non-motor Symptoms Scale (NMSS). A total of 99 PD patients and 64 controls were enrolled. The prevalence of constipation (65.7% vs. 34.3%, P < 0.001) and IBS (18.1% vs 5%, P = 0.02) were significantly higher in PD patients than controls. The prevalence of IBS was higher in early-stage PD than advanced-stage PD (14.43% vs. 8.25%, P = 0.02), whereas constipation was more common in advanced stages (71.43% vs. 18.56%, P < 0.001). PD patients with IBS had higher NMSS total scores (P < 0.01) than those without IBS. The severity of IBS correlated with NMSS scores (r = 0.71, P < 0.001), especially subscores in domain 3 assessing mood disorders (r = 0.83, P < 0.001), but not UPDRS part III scores (r = 0.06, P = 0.45). The severity of constipation correlated with the UPDRS part III scores (r = 0.59, P < 0.001) but not the domain 3 mood subscores (r = 0.15, P = 0.07). The prevalence of IBS and constipation was higher in PD patients than controls and phenotypic correlation supported the occurrence of IBS with higher non-motor symptom burden, especially mood symptoms, in PD patients. • Constipation and irritable bowel syndrome are more common in PD than controls. • The severity of irritable bowel syndrome correlated with non-motor symptoms in PD. • The severity of constipation correlated with motor symptoms in PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rational constructions of asymmetric supercapacitors (ASCs) by extending the operating potential window has been verified as an effective tactic to break through the energy density of the device. In this work, Ti 3 C 2 T X @polyaniline (PANI) heterostructure is successfully synthesized by uniformly depositing PANI nanorods onto the surface of Ti 3 C 2 T X nanosheets through polymer polymerization, then via a low-temperature hydrothermal graphene oxide (GO)-gelation process, Ti 3 C 2 T X @PANI is assembled into a three-dimensional (3D) porous hydrogel. The resultant Ti 3 C 2 T X @PANI-reduced graphene oxide (RGO) hydrogel exhibits a high specific capacitance of 617.84 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1. Separately, a defective reduced graphene oxide (DRGO) hydrogel is prepared by a cost-effective cobalt-catalyzed gasification procedure, which shows a higher specific capacitance (237.62 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1) than that of untreated RGO hydrogel (158 F g−1). Finally, Ti 3 C 2 T X @PANI-RGO and DRGO are used as anode and cathode to construct the Ti 3 C 2 T X @PANI-RGO//DRGO ASC device, which features a stable operating voltage (−1.6 to 0.2 V), an ultra-high energy density (269.18 Wh kg−1 at 527.72 W kg−1 and 77.90 Wh kg−1 at 12,409.04 W kg−1), and durable cycling property (retaining 92.52% capacitance after 10,000 cycles at 10 A g−1). This research emphasizes the extraordinary superiority of Ti 3 C 2 T X -based structures for the construction of high-energy ASCs. [Display omitted] • The Ti 3 C 2 T X @PANI heterostructure was synthesized by chemisorption followed by polymerization method. • By a GO-assisted hydrothermal strategy at low temperature, Ti 3 C 2 T X @PANI heterostructure was assembled into 3D hydrogel. • 3D Ti 3 C 2 T X @PANI-RGO hydrogel with high mechanical strength shows an excellent electrochemical performance. • A cost-effective hydrothermal followed by Co catalyzed gasification method was performed to prepare 3D DRGO hydrogel. • A high-energy asymmetric supercapacitor device was assembled based on Ti 3 C 2 T X @PANI-RGO anode and DRGO cathode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arginine (Arg) and lysine (Lys), as two important essential amino acids, are widely used in many fields. Here, a novel fluorescent probe (R)- 3 based on 1,1′-binaphthol (BINOL) was synthesized and it could chemoselectively detect Arg and Lys by complexing with zinc ions. The response time of each amino acid only need 1 min. The detection limit of the probe for D-/L-Arg were 60 nM and 123 nM, respectively, and the detection limit for Lys was 53 nM. Mechanistic studies revealed that the chemoselectivity comes from the selective 1,4-Michael addition to the acrylate group of the probe. The probe advantaged in low detection limit, high sensitivity, chemoselectivity and that the fluorescent detection proceeded in aqueous phase. A test strip for rapid detection of arginine was prepared, which gave yellowish color to Arg under natural light and bright yellow to Arg under 254 nm ultraviolet light. The test strip allows rapid detection and easy visualization for Arg. [Display omitted] • A new mechanism of acrylate detection sites. • A test strip for rapid detection of arginine. • Chemoselective fluorescent detection of arginine and lysine. • High sensitivity detection proceeded in aqueous phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficiency of the continuously variable transmission (CVT) is within 70 ∼ 95%, so the effects on the fuel consumption cannot be ignored. In this paper, we first analyze the quantitative relationship between the running states of inertial combustion engine with CVT and the fuel consumption, and then propose a fuel-optimal driving strategy for a vehicle with CVT. In the strategy, the vehicle speed and acceleration, the engine torque and speed, and the CVT ratio in the processes of acceleration, uniform motion and deceleration are calculated. The numerical results show that when the driving distance is less than a critical value, this vehicle experiences an acceleration–deceleration process, otherwise this vehicle experiences an acceleration–constant–deceleration process. The results can provide a fuel-optimal strategy for a vehicle under different driving distance, which can be used to the human driving guidance, the driving assistance system and the autonomous vehicles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In our previous studies, we have shown that thiourea compounds containing phosphate esters have potent antitumor activity and can be used as a novel strategy for the development of antitumor agents. Herein, a series of novel phosphonate thioureas 5–38 have been synthesized, which were fully characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR spectrum, elemental analysis. Three human cancer cell lines (Bcap‐37, BGC‐823, and PC‐3) have been used to investigate these compounds’ antitumor activities. After the summarization of the structure–activity relationships, we found that the variation of R, R1, and R2 in these novel phosphonate thioureas contribute to the antitumor activities. All these SAR‐guided efforts may lead to novel antitumor drugs in the market in the near future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural organic matter (NOM) is ubiquitous in aqueous systems and dynamically partitions onto/from environmental surfaces. However, such interfacial processes have not been uniformly quantified in situ and in real time. In this work, adsorption and deposition processes of Suwannee River humic acid (SRHA) and Suwannee River fulvic acid (SRFA), as model NOM, were evaluated for a series of environmentally relevant interfaces. Real-time, interfacial phenomenon, including deposition, release, and adlayer viscoelastic properties, were quantified over a variety of water chemistries via quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring (QCM-D). Specifically, adlayer mass and deposition rates of SRHA and SRFA were evaluated as a function of NOM concentration/molecular weight (fraction), pH, electrolyte composition (type and concentration), and collector surface type. For these, the adsorption of SRHA onto aluminum oxide (Al 2 O 3 ) and polystyrene (PS) surfaces follows the Langmuir isotherm model. Rapid, near-monolayer formation of SRHA/SRFA adlayers were observed on Al 2 O 3 , hydroxyapatite (HAP), and poly ( l -lysine) (PLL) surfaces, but not on PS or iron oxide (Fe 3 O 4 ) surfaces. The presence of divalent cations (Ca 2+ /Mg 2+ ) at relatively low concentrations (0.5–5.0 mM) significantly enhances the mass of SRHA/SRFA deposited onto the surfaces of silica (SiO 2 ), Al 2 O 3 , and PS. Viscoelastic properties of the adsorbed layer based on the ratio of dissipation to frequency revealed a relatively unique adlayer structure for SRHA in the presence of 5.0 mM Ca 2+ . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The important role of natural organic matter (NOM) -- Fe colloids in influencing contaminant transport, and this role can be influenced by the formation, aggregation, and particle deposition dynamics of NOM-Fe colloids. In this work, NOM-Fe colloids at different C/Fe ratios were prepared by mixing different concentrations of humic acid (HA) with 10 mg/L Fe(11) under duuxlr rUrrtLuons. 1 ne t611ords were characterized by an array of techniques and their aggregation and deposition behaviors were examined under both anoxic and oxic conditions. The colloids are composed of HA-Fe(II) at anoxic conditions, while they are made up of HA-Fe(111) at oxic conditions until the C/Fe molar ratio exceeds I 6 For C/Fe molar ratios above 1.6, the aggregation and deposition kiurli,s of HA-Pe(11) colloids under anoxic conditions are slower than those of HA-Fe(III) colloids under oxic conditions. Further, the aggregation of HA-Fe colloids under both anoxic and oxic conditions decreases with increasing C/Fe molar ratio from 1.6 to 2.3.3. This study highlights the importance of the redox transformation of Fe(ll) to Fe(BI) and the C/Fe ratio for the formation and stability of NOM-Fe colloids that occur in subsurface environments with anoxic -- oxic interfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experiment was conducted to measure the effects of dietary supplementation with copper sulfate and cupreous N-carbamylglutamate chelate (NCG-Cu) on the growth performance, serum biochemical profile and immune response, tissue mineral levels and fecal excretion of minerals of weaning piglets. Eighteen 28-d-old healthy weaning piglets (initial body weight = 6.34 ± 0.10 kg) were individually housed and randomly assigned to receive one of three diets containing no copper in either form (Control), 650 g/t copper sulfate (650 g/t Cu group) or 640 g/t NCG-Cu (640 g/t NCG-Cu group) in the final feed for 14 days. These data indicate that 640 g/t NCG-Cu was as effective as 650 g/t Cu for stimulating growth, immune response, and improving F/G in weaning piglets. Fecal Cu excretion decreased in piglets from the 640 g/t NCG-Cu group, which received 160 mg/kg Cu compared with the fecal CU excretion observed in the piglets from the 650 g/t Cu group, which also received 160 mg/kg Cu. Therefore, 640 g/t NCG-Cu of dietary Cu, may provide an effective environmental alternative to 650 g/t Cu in weaning piglets. Abbreviations:ADFI: average daily feed intake; ADG: average daily gain; ALB: albumin; ALP: alkaline phosphatase; ALT: alanine aminotransferase; AST: aspartate amino transferase;CK:creatine kinase; CREA: creatinine; D-BIL: direct-acting-bilirubin; F/G: feed/gain ratio; GLB: globulin; GLU: blood glucose; IgA: immunoglobulin A; IgG: immunoglobulin G; LDH: lactate dehydrogenase; NCG: N-carbamylglutamate;T-BIL:total bilirubin; TC: total cholesterol; TP: total protein; urea: Urea; UA: urate [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Humic acid (HA) occurs ubiquitously in the subsurface environments and is well-known to play a critical role in the fate and transport of ferrihydrite nanoparticles (NPs) and NPs-associated contaminants. Under anoxic conditions, HA can readily be reduced by microorganisms or geochemical reducing species, and the mechanisms and kinetics of ferrihydrite reduction by reduced HA (HA red ) are well-documented; however, the role of these redox reactions on the transport of ferrihydrite NPs is largely underestimated. This study provides new knowledge regarding the role of HA (both reduced HA (HA red ) and oxidized HA (HA ox )) of environmentally relevant concentrations (0–50 mg C/L) on the transport of ferrihydrite NPs in anoxic sand columns. Our findings show that, regardless of the redox state, the presence of a low concentration of HA (3 mg C/L) inhibited ferrihydrite NP's transport due to enhanced aggregation (and deposition) between positively charged ferrihydrite NPs and negatively charged HA molecules. In contrast, higher HA (both HA red and HA ox ) concentration (≥10 mg C/L) significantly enhanced the mobility of ferrihydrite NPs, primarily due to the enhanced electrostatic and steric stabilization originating from excessively adsorbed HA molecules. Interestingly, the transport of ferrihydrite NPs is substantially lower in the presence of HA red than in the presence of HA ox . This distinct effect (HA red vs. HA ox ) on the particle transport is attributed to the fact that reductive dissolution of ferrihydrite NPs occurs in the presence of HA red (ferrihydrite dissolves and thus total breakthrough decreases), but not in the presence of HA ox . Furthermore, the abatement extent of ferrihydrite NPs transport triggered by the presence of HA red is dependent on dissolved HA red concentration. Taken together, our findings provide direct, and much needed insights into the distinct roles of redox state of HA on the transport of redox-sensitive metal-bearing NPs in porous media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deterministic capacity drop is a common phenomenon that occurs in traffic bottlenecks, and it has an intricate impact on the evolution of traffic flow in a traffic corridor with tandem bottlenecks. Considering the above facts, this study investigates deterministic capacity drop's effects on commuter's departure time choice, the evolution of traffic flow and traffic congestion in the morning commute process in a traffic corridor with tandem bottlenecks. We derive the closed-form solutions of the departure flow rate and arrival flow rate in different bottlenecks. Based on the formulations of these solutions, we analyze the influences of the deterministic capacity drop on commuter's trip cost and the existence of different cases in the morning commute process in one origin one destination traffic corridor and Y-shape traffic corridor. A new manifestation of the capacity expansion paradox caused or influenced by the deterministic capacity drop is found. The result of this study reveals the essential role of the deterministic capacity drop in the morning commute process, and provides some advice for traffic control. • Tandem bottlenecks and deterministic capacity drop is considered. • A new manifestation of capacity expansion paradox is found. • Some advice is provided with considering capacity drop in morning commute. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• GFRP rebar diameter and cover thickness have interactions on the failure mode. • Helically ribbed GFRP rebar has the bond strength in UHPC close to steel rebar. • UHPC critical cover thickness is 3 ∼ 4 times of GFRP rebar diameter. • Rib height of GFRP rebar shows significant influence on the bond strength. This study presents an experimental study of the bond performance of helically ribbed glass-fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) rebars embedded in ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC). Pull-out tests were carried out on 40 specimens of GFRP rebar with various parameters, including UHPC cover thickness, rebar diameter and embedment length. The bond behavior was characterized in terms of failure mode, bond strength and bond stress-slip response, and the influence of variable parameters on the bond performance was described. The specimens of GFRP rebar behaved in two types of pull-out failures, namely the direct pull-out failure and the splitting pull-out failure. Those specimens characterized with large diameter of GFRP rebar and relatively small thickness of UHPC cover tended to show the splitting pull-out failure. The GFRP rebar had the bond strength of 20.7 ∼ 56.2 MPa in UHPC when the embedment length equals to the rebar diameter, which is close to that of steel rebar in UHPC. The increase of UHPC cover thickness contributed to the improvement of bond strength when it was smaller than the critical cover thickness (3 ∼ 4 times of rebar diameter). The bond strength grows with the GFRP rebar diameter owning to the increase of rebar rib height. In addition, a fitting equation for bond strength of helically ribbed GFRP rebar to UHPC was suggested based on the present test data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apoptosis triggered by ricin toxin (RT) has previously been associated with certain cellular organellar compartments, but the diversity in the composition of the organellar proteins remains unclear. Here, we applied a shotgun proteomics strategy to examine the differential expression of proteins in the mitochondria, nuclei, and cytoplasm of HeLa cells treated and not treated with RT. Data were combined with a global bioinformatics analysis and experimental confirmations. A total of 3107 proteins were identified. Bioinformatics predictors (Proteome Analyst, WoLF PSORT, TargetP, MitoPred, Nucleo, MultiLoc, and k-nearest neighbor) and a Bayesian model that integrated these predictors were used to predict the locations of 1349 distinct organellar proteins. Our data indicate that the Bayesian model was more efficient than the individual implementation of these predictors. Additionally, a Biomolecular Interaction Network (BIN) analysis was used to identify 149 BIN subnetworks. Our experimental confirmations indicate that certain apoptosis-related proteins (e.g. cytochrome c, enolase, lamin B, Bax, and Drp1) were found to be translocated and had variable expression levels. These results provide new insights for the systematic understanding of RT-induced apoptosis responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use and development of mobile interventions are experiencing rapid growth. In "just-in-time" mobile interventions, treatments are provided via a mobile device, and they are intended to help an individual make healthy decisions 'in the moment,' and thus have a proximal, near future impact. Currently, the development of mobile interventions is proceeding at a much faster pace than that of associated data science methods. A first step toward developing data-based methods is to provide an experimental design for testing the proximal effects of these just-in-time treatments. In this paper, we propose a 'micro-randomized' trial design for this purpose. In a micro-randomized trial, treatments are sequentially randomized throughout the conduct of the study, with the result that each participant may be randomized at the 100s or 1000s of occasions at which a treatment might be provided. Further, we develop a test statistic for assessing the proximal effect of a treatment as well as an associated sample size calculator. We conduct simulation evaluations of the sample size calculator in various settings. Rules of thumb that might be used in designing a micro-randomized trial are discussed. This work is motivated by our collaboration on the HeartSteps mobile application designed to increase physical activity. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The occurrence of antibiotics in subsurface environments is increasingly reported recently in addition to the widespread distribution in surface waters. However, the mechanisms governing the transport of antibiotics from surface into subsurface are not well understood. In this study, the transport of tetracycline in saturated sand columns were investigated in the presence and absence of humic acid (HA) at different ionic strengths and cationic types. NaCl (0–0.1 M) and CaCl 2 (0–0.1 M) were used as representatives of mono- and divalent cations in subsurface. The presence of HA moderately facilitated the transport of tetracycline in sand columns. The presence of Na + inhibited the transport of tetracycline and HA through increasing the deposition of HA aggregates on the sands. The inhibition increased slightly with the increase in Na + concentration from 0 to 0.1 M. In contrast, the presence of Ca 2+ dramatically inhibited the transport of tetracycline and HA even at a low concentration of 0.001 M, which was attributed to the increased aggregation of HA and the greater electrostatic attractive interactions. Results from this study improve our understanding on the penetration of antibiotics from surface into subsurface waters and the transport of antibiotics in saturated aquifers at environmentally relevant conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Stable HA-Cd(II) nanocolloids formed at high C/Cd ratios. • Electrostatic interactions controlled the stability of HA-Cd(II) nanoparticles. • Colloid transport model can well describe the mobility of HA-Cd(II) colloids. • Stable HA-Cd(II) colloids can travel a large distance in column. Humic acid (HA), a principal constituent of natural organic matter (NOM), manifests ubiquitously across diverse ecosystems and can significantly influence the environmental behaviors of Cd(II) in aquatic systems. Previous studies on NOM-Cd(II) interactions have primarily focused on the immobilization of Cd(II) solids, but little is known about the colloidal stability of organically complexed Cd(II) particles in the environment. In this study, we investigated the formation of HA-Cd(II) colloids and quantified their aggregation, stability, and transport behaviors in a saturated porous media representative of typical subsurface conditions. Results from batch experiments indicated that the relative quantity of HA-Cd(II) colloids increased with increasing C/Cd molar ratio and that the carboxyl functional groups of HA dominated the stability of HA-Cd(II) colloids. The results of correlation analysis between particle size, critical aggregation concentration (CCC), and zeta potential indicated that both Derjaguin-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek (DLVO) and non-DLVO interactions contributed to the enhanced colloidal stability of HA-Cd(II) colloids. Column results further confirmed that the stable HA-Cd(II) colloid can transport fast in a saturated media composed of clean sand. Together, this study provides new knowledge of the colloidal behaviors of NOM-Cd(II) nanoparticles, which is important for better understanding the ultimate cycling of Cd(II) in aquatic systems. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• ssDNA interactions with NOM remain unknown despite its wide aquatic applications. • ssDNA preferentially interacts with highly aromatic AHA over less aromatic NOM. • Complete shielding of ssDNA by AHA occurs via π-π interaction and divalent cation bridging. • Partial shielding by SRHA/WOM/ROM depends on NOM:DNA ratio and cations. • Extent of ssDNA shielding by NOM influences their practical application performance. Engineered short-chain single stranded DNA (ssDNA) are emerging materials with various environmental applications, such as aptasensor, selective adsorbent, and hydrological tracer. However, the lack of fundamental understanding on the interactions of such materials with natural organic matter (NOM) hinders the improvement of their application performance in terms of sensitivity, selectivity, and stability. In this study, we investigated the interactions of ssDNA (four strands with systematically varied length and sequence) with two humic acids (Suwannee River humic acid (SRHA) and Aldrich humic acid (AHA)) and two humic-like NOM present in local aquatic matrices (ROM in river water and WOM in wastewater). Detailed, molecular level interaction mechanisms were obtained by probing the colloidal stability of the ssDNA-coated gold nanoparticles, coupled with product characterization using a suite of microscopic and spectroscopic techniques. Our study revealed that π-π interactions and divalent cation bridging were the major mechanisms for ssDNA-NOM interactions. ssDNA preferentially interacted with NOM with high aromaticity (AHA > SRHA/WOM/ROM). With divalent cations present (especially Ca2+), even a small amount of AHA could completely shield ssDNA, whereas the extent of shielding by SRHA/WOM/ROM depended on the relative content of ssDNA and NOM and whether bridges formed. The extent of shielding of ssDNA by NOM provides a potential answer to the reported conflicting effects of natural water matrices on the performance of DNA-based sensors. Taken together, our findings provide insights into the transformations of engineered ssDNA under environmentally relevant conditions as well as implications for their performance optimization in practical aquatic applications (e.g., from DNA design to pretreatment strategy). [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrochemical stimuli have attracted much attention in recent years as they are simple, clean and can be widely applied in biological systems and material science. As one type of common guest molecules, ferrocene and its derivatives have been well studied with different host molecules, mainly including cyclodextrins, cucurbiturils, pillararenes and calixarenes. This article generally summarizes the recent work on the host-guest interactions between ferrocene derivatives and their host molecules, as well as various supramolecular systems based on these interactions. In addition, the development and outlook of electrochemical responsive systems are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tumor cell intrinsic ferroptosis-initiating mechanisms are unknown. Here, we discover that T cell-derived interferon (IFN)γ in combination with arachidonic acid (AA) induces immunogenic tumor ferroptosis, serving as a mode of action for CD8+ T cell (CTL)-mediated tumor killing. Mechanistically, IFNγ stimulates ACSL4 and alters tumor cell lipid pattern, thereby increasing incorporations of AA into C16 and C18 acyl chain-containing phospholipids. Palmitoleic acid and oleic acid, two common C16 and C18 fatty acids in blood, promote ACSL4-dependent tumor ferroptosis induced by IFNγ plus AA. Moreover, tumor ACSL4 deficiency accelerates tumor progression. Low-dose AA enhances tumor ferroptosis and elevates spontaneous and immune checkpoint blockade (ICB)-induced anti-tumor immunity. Clinically, tumor ACSL4 correlates with T cell signatures and improved survival in ICB-treated cancer patients. Thus, IFNγ signaling paired with selective fatty acids is a natural tumor ferroptosis-promoting mechanism and a mode of action of CTLs. Targeting the ACSL4 pathway is a potential anti-cancer approach. [Display omitted] • Arachidonic acid and IFNγ coordinately induce tumor cell ferroptosis via ACSL4 • ACSL4-dependent tumor ferroptosis is a mode of action of CTLs • ACSL4 mediates immunogenic tumor ferroptosis • Targeting tumor ACSL4 sensitizes checkpoint therapy In brief: Liao et al. demonstrate IFNγ from cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) and arachidonic acid from the tumor microenvironment naturally induce tumor cell ferroptosis, which is mediated via ACSL4-dependent lipid reprogramming. Targeting the ACSL4 pathway is a potential anti-cancer approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the variations of serum glycoproteins after exposure to ricin toxin (RT) in Wistar albino rats are reported. For glycopeptide enrichment, Microcon YM-3 centrifugal filter device capture and micro-liquid chromatography (LC)–electrospray ionization (ESI)–tandem mass spectrometric (MS/MS) analysis were used; 74 trypsin-digested proteins were identified in the control group, and 58 in the RT-intoxication group. Additionally, 33 N-glycosides and 14 glycoproteins were identified in the control, and 50 and 21 in the RT-intoxication group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Central venous catheter thrombosis can cause venous obstruction and pulmonary embolism. To determine the extent to which catheter thrombosis is triggered by the contact or extrinsic pathway of coagulation, we used antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) to selectively knock down factor (f)Xll, fXl, or high-molecular-weight kininogen (HK), key components of the contact pathway, or fVII, which is essential for the extrinsic pathway. Knockdown of contact pathway components prolonged the activated partial thromboplastin time and decreased target protein activity levels by over 90%, whereas fVll knockdown prolonged the prothrombin time and reduced fVII activity to a similar extent. Using a rabbit model of catheter thrombosis, catheters implanted in the jugular vein were assessed daily until they occluded, up to a maximum of 35 days. Compared with control, fXll and fXl ASO treatment prolonged the time to catheter occlusion by 2.2- and 2.3-fold, respectively. In contrast, both HK and fVll knockdown did not significantly prolong the time to occlusion, and dual treatment with fyll- and fXl-directed ASOs produced a time to occlusion similar to that with the fXl ASO alone. These findings suggest that catheter thrombosis is triggered via the contact pathway and identify fXll and fXl as potential targets to attenuate this complication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Pd-catalytic process is effective for reducing a wide range of contaminants in groundwater. However, limited attention is paid to Cr(VI) reduction presumably due to the weakly oxidizing potential of Cr(VI) under circumneutral conditions. In this study, a new concept of in situ reducing Cr(VI) in groundwater by a hybrid electro-Pd process with automatic pH adjustments is proposed and justified. In an undivided electrolytic cell, Cr(VI) at 5 mg/L is reduced by 95% within 30 min under conditions of pH 3, 1 g/L Pd/Al2O3 and 20 mA current. Reduction of Cr(VI) increases with decreasing pH and increasing current and Pd/Al2O3 dosage. Inhibition of anodic O2 is significant but decreases with drop of pH. Atomic H is assigned as the predominant reactive species contributing to Cr(VI) reduction. Although H2O2 is effective for reducing Cr(VI), its production on Pd surface is completed inhibited by the presence of Cr(VI). The concept is ultimately justified using a specially configured three-electrode column. Cr(VI) is effectively reduced to Cr3+ in the locally acidic Pd zone, and Cr3+ is then precipitated in the downstream neutral zone. This hybrid electro-Pd process could be potentially applied in the in situ remediation of Cr(VI)-contaminated groundwater. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] A cheap Cu/C catalyst was synthesized for electro-Fenton process. [•] Cu/C catalyzed the electrolytic degradation of phenol. [•] OH radicals were the dominant ROS for phenol degradation. [•] Degradation under different conditions was investigated. [•] The performance of Cu/C was lower compared with Pd/C. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The design of advanced electrode materials with high energy density is the key for the practical application of supercapacitors (SCs) in portable digital devices. In this work, a novel heterostructure of Fe3O4 nanoparticles anchored on Ti3C2TX was synthesized via a simple hydrothermal technique without any templates, and the heterostructure was successfully assembled into a 3D porous hydrogel by a hydrothermal graphene oxide (GO)-gelation self-assembly process at low temperatures. The resulting Fe3O4@Ti3C2TX-reduced graphene oxide (rGO) hydrogel can be directly used as the electrode of a SC without binders, due to the excellent mechanical strength of the macroscopic framework. The free-standing electrode presented a high specific capacitance of 308 F g−1 at 1 A g−1, a maximal energy density of 45 W h Kg−1 at a power density of 362.4 W Kg−1, and good cyclability with only 0.13% capacity loss from the 700th to the 1600th cycle at 10 A g−1. These outstanding electrochemical performances of the Fe3O4@Ti3C2TX–rGO hydrogel can be attributed to the synergistic effect among each component and the 3D porous interconnected structure, which lead to high conductivity, repressive aggregation, and large active area. This work indicates that the proposed strategy can provide more opportunities to rationally develop MXene-based functional materials with high capacitive properties, which will extend the application of such materials to energy storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] A new porous carbonaceous adsorbent was investigated for antibiotics adsorption. [•] Bamboo charcoal (BC) exhibits a strong adsorption affinity to antibiotics. [•] The key process controlling the rate of antibiotics adsorption was identified. [•] The mechanism regarding BC adsorption of antibiotics was explored. [•] BC could be used as a potential adsorbent for antibiotics removal in wastewater. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The adsorption kinetics and thermodynamics of nitrogen-heterocyclic compounds (NHCs), pyridine, indole and quinoline, in aqueous solutions on bamboo charcoal (BC), as well as the regeneration of spent BC by microwave radiation, are investigated. BC is produced by incomplete combustion of moso bamboo at high temperature and nitrogen atmosphere. Adsorption kinetics is analyzed using pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order as well as Weber–Morris model. The results show that NHC adsorption on BC is predominantly regulated by surface diffusion in initial 1h followed by intraparticle diffusion in later stage. BC exhibits a strong adsorption affinity to NHCs, and the adsorption isotherms are well described by Freundlich model. Thermodynamic analysis indicates that the adsorption is spontaneous and endothermic. Adsorption site energy analysis illustrates a distribution of adsorption energy, which indicates the heterogeneous sites on BC for NHC adsorption. Furthermore, spent BC with NHC adsorption can be effectively regenerated by MW radiation. The adsorption capacity becomes even higher than that of virgin BC after five times of adsorption–regeneration cycles. This study proves BC is a promising adsorbent for NHC removal in wastewater. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Adsorption of three nitrogen-heterocyclic compounds (NHCs), pyridine, indole, and quinoline, on a new porous carbonaceous adsorbent, bamboo charcoal (BC), is investigated. Different structures and surface properties of BC are created by HNO3 and NaOH treatment as well as by microwave (MW) radiation. HNO3 treatment decreases surface area, micropore volume, and surface hydrophobicity, whereas NaOH treatment increases surface area and micropore volume. MW treatment dramatically increases hydrophobicity and fraction of aromatic structure. Adsorption isotherms of NHCs are nonlinear and better fitted by Freundlich model (FM) compared with Langmuir model (LM) and Polanyi–Manes model (PMM). The maximum adsorption capacities for pyridine, indole, and quinoline reach 42.92, 93.24, and 91.74mgg−1, respectively, at an initial concentration of 200mgL−1. Surface area, hydrophobicicty, and electrostatic and π–π electron-donor–acceptor (EDA) interactions are accountable for NHC adsorption. A model relating NHC adsorption (log K) and adsorbent–adsorbate physicochemical properties is developed to measure the relative contribution of these interactions giving the sequence of surface area>hydrophobic interaction>electrostatic interaction> π–π EDA interaction. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The performance and mechanism of bamboo charcoal (BC) and microwave modified BC (BC-MW) for the adsorption of methylene blue (MB) and acid orange 7 (AO7) from aqueous solutions were investigated. MB and AO7 adsorption was stronger on BC-MW than on BC due to the greater pore diameter, higher hydrophobicity as well as more surface charge. Kinetic results showed that the surface and intraparticle diffusion were the rate-controlling steps for the adsorption. All adsorption isotherms were highly nonlinear and fitted well by Freundlich and Dubinin–Radushkevich models. Hydrophobic, π–π and electrostatic interactions are mainly responsible for the adsorption of dyes, while the surface area and pore volume of BCs in conjunction with H-bond interaction had minute contribution. The adsorption was pH-dependent with more adsorption at pH below 5 for MB and below 3 for AO7, respectively. Higher ionic strength led to higher adsorption capacity. The thermodynamic analysis showed that the adsorption was spontaneous and endothermic. The distributions of the adsorption site energy on BCs were calculated to be heterogeneous. Furthermore, the fixed-bed columns packed with BC and BC-MW resulted in an excellent adsorption of both dyes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]