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Background: The treatment resistance is a problem for lung cancer. In this study, we used a vitro tissue culturing system to select a new therapy strategy for a patient with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) resistance. Case presentation: A 42-year-old male Asian patient was diagnosed with advanced lung adenocarcinoma harboring an exon 19 deletion in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene. The patient was treated with Gefitinib, resulting in an almost complete remission for over a year. The patient relapsed after 13 months treatment, and received four cycles of chemotherapy. At 20 months, the patient had developed multiple lung metastases and a solitary cerebellar metastasis. An EGFR T790M mutation was identified in the peripheral blood sample. Subsequent treatment with Osimertinib resulted in a complete response of the intracranial metastasis. By 33 months, the patient had developed a mediastinal tumor mass that responded well to local radiotherapy. By 39 months, an EGFR C797S cis-mutation had been identified and the patient was treated with Brigatinib and Cetuximab. By 44 months, the tumor cells from the pleural effusion had been tested for sensitivity against 30 targeted and cytostatic drugs using the D ~ Sense ex-vivo viability assay. The assay identified 8 drugs with moderate to high sensitivity. Combination therapy of Gemcitabin and Lobaplatin had resulted in disease stabilization. Conclusions: The case showed that individualized treatment aided by D ~ Sense ex-vivo viability assay can be a viable option for patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma with pleural effusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, successful development of n-type hydrogenated nanocrystalline silicon oxide (n-nc-SiO x :H) window layers with high conductivity and low parasitic absorption, grown by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) technology, has significantly enhanced the power conversion efficiency of silicon heterojunction (SHJ) solar cells. Although SHJ solar cells have significant advantages in efficiency, the high cost of the PECVD equipment presents a significant barrier to their mass production. The utilization of the more cost-effective hot wire chemical vapor deposition (HWCVD) technology presents a promising solution. Nevertheless, HWCVD technology currently lacks an industrially viable methodology for growing high-performance window layers due to a phenomenon of associated severe loss of passivation. In this work, the phenomenon and the solution have been investigated. The results demonstrate that, in HWCVD processes, large amounts of hydrogen and small amounts of oxygen, which are essential for enhancing the crystallinity and conductivity and reducing the parasitic absorption, both induce significant damage to the previously grown intrinsic hydrogenated amorphous silicon layer, leading to poor passivation, and hence much lower cell efficiency. Introduction of a densified amorphous silicon barrier layer was found to be an effective solution to the aforementioned passivation loss, resulting in the successful growth of nc-SiO x :H window layers by HWCVD, with an efficiency enhancement of 0.37% abs. Finally, a commercial-size SHJ solar cell with an efficiency of 24.74 % was fabricated using a home-made HWCVD-based pilot SHJ cell line. • Both hydrogen and oxygen can cause significant damage to the i-a-Si:H layer when depositing n-nc-SiO x :H film by HWCVD. • A barrier layer was developed to protect the i-a-Si:H layer, yielding an efficiency enhancement of 0.37% abs. • A HWCVD-based SHJ solar cell with an efficiency of 24.74 % at a commercial size can be achieved. • A practical and novel window layer for large-scale production of SHJ solar cell by HWCVD has been designed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wilson disease (WD) is an inherited disorder characterized by abnormal copper metabolism with complex pathological features. Currently, this mechanism of copper overload-induced hepatic injury remains unclear. In this study, male toxic milk (TX) mice were selected as experimental subjects. Copper levels and biochemical indices were measured by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) and kits. Liver tissue ultrastructure was observed by hematoxylin-eosin (H&E), sirius red staining and transmission electron microscopy. Plasma and liver metabolic profiles of TX mice were characterized by untargeted metabolomics. In addition, the expression of enzymes related to arachidonic acid metabolism in liver tissue was detected by Western blotting. The results showed the excessive copper content, concomitant oxidative stress, and hepatic tissue structural damage in TX mice. Seventy-eight metabolites were significantly different in WD, mainly involved in the metabolism of arachidonic acid, glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids, niacin and nicotinamide, and phenylalanine. Furthermore, the arachidonic acid metabolic pathway is an important pathway involved in WD metabolism. The level of arachidonic acid in the liver of TX mice was significantly lower (p < 0.01) compared to the control group. The expression of cytoplasmic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) and arachidonic acid 12-lipoxygenase (ALOX12), related to the arachidonic acid metabolic pathway, was significantly different in the liver of TX mice (p < 0.01). Modulation of the arachidonic acid metabolic pathway could be a potential therapeutic strategy to alleviate WD symptoms. • Copper accumulation and excretion disorders occurs in the WD. • Oxidative stress and inflammatory response are important factors in liver injury • The reduction of arachidonic acid in the liver is a hallmark dysregulation in WD. • The cPLA2 and ALOX12 co-regulate arachidonic acid levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the silicon heterojunction (SHJ) solar cell is the crystalline silicon solar cell with highest conversion efficiency at present, its higher cost of production line has been a factor restricting its industrial development. The use of hot wire chemical vapor deposition (HWCVD) technology instead of the mainstream plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) technology for the deposition of amorphous silicon films can effectively reduce the cost of equipment and processing, and has a bright future. In recent years, i-a-Si:H films grown by PECVD have obtained great improvement in passivation quality, whereas HWCVD technology has been neglected in this field. This has significantly limited the development and application of HWCVD technology in SHJ cell production. In this work, we exploited the differences in the films properties and microstructures deposited by various hot-wire temperatures and successfully developed a structure for the high-passivation-quality i-a-Si:H film grown by HWCVD, consisting of a buffer layer and a double-layer bulk stack. By introducing the buffer layer grown with the 1650 °C hot-wire temperature and pure silane, the effective minority carrier lifetime was improved from 2.3 ms to 7.5 ms, and a cell efficiency enhancement of 0.4%abs was obtained. By depositing the bulk layer sequentially with hot-wire temperatures of 1800 °C and 1900 °C, the passivation quality and the conductance were both improved. An effective minority carrier lifetime of 8 ms and a further cell efficiency enhancement of 0.15%abs were obtained. Finally, SHJ solar cell efficiency of 24.35% was obtained with a home-made HWCVD-based pilot SHJ cell line. • A buffer layer for the i-a-Si:H film of the SHJ solar cell was developed by HWCVD with an efficiency gain of 0.4%abs. • A double-layer stack for bulk of the film was developed, yielding a further efficiency gain of 0.15%abs. • An important HWCVD fabrication progress for SHJ solar cells has been made. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the progress of society, the quality requirements of international business enterprises for international business talents have been improved accordingly. So, it is urgent to conduct in-depth research on the teaching model and the improvement of students' practical ability. Taking international business as an example, this paper analyzes the contradiction between the supply and demand of international business technical talents by literature research. Furthermore, the convolution neural network model is used to improve the consistency between the talent cultivation of international business major and the talent demand of enterprises by interviewing teachers and questionnaire survey of students. By studying how to implement the professional training curriculum system construction and enterprise to talented person ability training requirements cohesion, this paper in view of the secondary vocational school of international business in today's society professional training curriculum system was modified and perfected. The ultimate purpose of this paper is to meet the demand of international business for characteristic talents and constantly promote the high-quality development of international business education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Domestication and diversification have had profound effects on crop genomes. Originating in Africa and subsequently spreading to different continents, sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) has experienced multiple onsets of domestication and intensive breeding selection for various end uses. However, how these processes have shaped sorghum genomes is not fully understood. In the present study, population genomics analyses were performed on a worldwide collection of 445 sorghum accessions, covering wild sorghum and four end-use subpopulations with diverse agronomic traits. Frequent genetic exchanges were found among various subpopulations, and strong selective sweeps affected 14.68% (∼107.5 Mb) of the sorghum genome, including 3649, 4287, and 3888 genes during sorghum domestication, improvement of grain sorghum, and improvement of sweet sorghum, respectively. Eight different models of haplotype changes in domestication genes from wild sorghum to landraces and improved sorghum were observed, and Sh1 - and SbTB1 -type genes were representative of two prominent models, one of soft selection or multiple origins and one of hard selection or an early single domestication event. We also demonstrated that the Dry gene, which regulates stem juiciness, was unconsciously selected during the improvement of grain sorghum. Taken together, these findings provide new genomic insights into sorghum domestication and breeding selection, and will facilitate further dissection of the domestication and molecular breeding of sorghum. Population genomics analyses revealed the profound effects of domestication and genetic improvement on sorghum genomes. Eight different models of haplotype changes in domestication genes were observed, and Sh1 - and SbTB1 -type genes were representative of two prominent models of soft selection and hard selection, respectively. The genomic footprints identified here will facilitate further dissection of the domestication and molecular breeding of sorghum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A scientific measurement of the amount of tradable water rights forms the premise for reaching an agreement in water rights trading. However, the existing measurement methods, based on water saving potential, still have problems caused by large computation workload and difficult-to-control errors. Conflicts also easily emerge between transferor and transferee during the execution of transaction agreements. This paper proposes a new method for measuring tradable water rights from the perspective of an assessment of the risk of water shortage for the transferor. The following describes the basic idea: An index system is established for the assessment of the water shortage risk of the transferor to identify water shortage risk categories. The impact of the water rights transaction volume on the transferor's water shortage risk category is analyzed under different incoming water frequencies. The transferor's water shortage risk threshold is set and a simulated annealing algorithm is designed to calculate the theoretical value of tradable water rights. The following summarizes the innovation of the proposed method: The water resource shortage risk evaluation index of the transferor is constructed based on water resource endowment, water supply, water demand, and water ecological environment of the transferor; then, a risk classification evaluation model of water resource shortage is established and a measurement method of tradable water rights is introduced. Comprehensive analysis of a case analysis of Helan County in the Ningxia Autonomous Region, China, shows that the recommended value of tradable water rights of Helan County is 40 million m3. Various methods are used to calculate the weights of evaluation indexes, which are compared to the measured results of tradable water rights; moreover, the sensitivity of the results is analyzed. The obtained results show that the use of water-saving potential to measure the amount of tradable water rights is feasible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the initial stage, the epidemic area is relatively concentrated, and some traffic modes may be subject to traffic control. In this period, the timely delivery of adequate emergency medical supplies to the epidemic points will play an important role in controlling the spread of the epidemic. However, the existing emergency medical supplies loading optimization model has not taken the initial period of the epidemic as the research time nor fully considered the traffic control situation in that period. Therefore, combined with the characteristics of the initial epidemic period of COVID-19, this study establishes an optimization model for emergency medical supplies stowage at the rescue point, considering the variation in demand for different kinds of medical supplies at the epidemic point in different cycles and the impact of traffic control on the mode of transportation. The model is an integer programming model. The objective function is the least total cost, including total transportation cost and total inventory cost. The constraints include the supply limit of each medical material that can be provided by the rescue point, the transportation capacity limit of the transportation mode, the demand constraints, inventory constraints, nonnegative constraints, and integer variable constraints of various medical supplies in each cycle of the epidemic location. Finally, combining the development of the epidemic situation in Wuhan January 18–23, 2020, a case study was carried out, and the optimal combination of different transportation modes and different stowage schemes in different periods of the rescue point was obtained, which verified the feasibility and practicality of the model. The model constructed in this study can provide a theoretical reference to the optimal decision-making plan of emergency medical supplies of the implementation of traffic control during the initial period of emergency public health events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The timeliness of the steel distribution center process contributes to the smooth progress of ship construction. However, carbon emissions from vehicles in the distribution process are a major source of pollution. Reasonable vehicle routing and scheduling can effectively reduce the carbon emissions of vehicles and ensure the timeliness of distribution. To solve this problem, a green vehicle routing and scheduling problem model with soft time windows was proposed in this study. An intelligent water drop algorithm was designed and improved and then compared with the genetic algorithm and the traditional intelligent water drop algorithm. The applicability of the improved intelligent water drop algorithm was demonstrated. Finally, this algorithm was applied to a specific example to demonstrate that the improved intelligent water drop algorithm effectively reduced the cost of such green vehicle problems, thus reducing the carbon emissions of vehicles during the distribution process and achieving reductions in environmental pollution. Ultimately, this algorithm facilitates the achievement of green shipbuilding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyper-heuristic algorithms are known for their flexibility and efficiency, making them suitable for solving engineering optimization problems with complex constraints. This paper introduces a self-learning hyper-heuristic algorithm based on a genetic algorithm (GA-SLHH) designed to tackle the logistics scheduling problem of prefabricated modular cabin units (PMCUs) in cruise ships. This problem can be regarded as a multi-objective fuzzy logistics collaborative scheduling problem. Hyper-heuristic algorithms effectively avoid the extensive evaluation and repair of infeasible solutions during the iterative process, which is a common issue in meta-heuristic algorithms. The GA-SLHH employs a genetic algorithm combined with a self-learning strategy as its high-level strategy (HLS), optimizing low-level heuristics (LLHs) while uncovering potential relationships between adjacent decision-making stages. LLHs utilize classic scheduling rules as solution support. Multiple sets of numerical experiments demonstrate that the GA-SLHH exhibits a stronger comprehensive optimization ability and stability when solving this problem. Finally, the validity of the GA-SLHH in addressing real-world decision-making issues in cruise ship manufacturing companies is validated through practical enterprise cases. The results of a practical enterprise case show that the scheme solved using the proposed GA-SLHH can reduce the transportation time by up to 37%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mutations in pncA gene contributing to PZA resistance was not clearly elucidated in China. To reveal the correlated mutations of pncA gene on pyrazinamide (PZA) resistance. 148 Mycobacterium tuberculosis clinical isolates were included from multi-drug resistant tuberculosis suspects. The MGIT 960 test and microscopic observation drug susceptibility (MODS) assay were adopted for PZA phenotype drug susceptibility test. 120 isolates with consistent MGIT 960 and MODS results were selected for pncA gene sequencing. 68 samples (56.7%) were resistant to PZA while leaving 52 PZA susceptible samples. Out of the 68 PZA resistant isolates, 49 (72.1%) harbored mutations of pncA , and 4 (7.7%) of the 52 PZA susceptible samples harbored mutations of pncA as well. Compared to the phenotype drug resistant pattern of PZA, the mutations of pncA gene reached a sensitivity of 0.72 to report PZA resistance and a specificity of 0.92 to predict PZA susceptibility. Those mutations, Gln10Pro, Asp12Ala, Tyr41Stop, Gly97Asp, Val128Gly and FSC131(ins) exceeding 5% of the total PZA resistant isolates of each, might be helpful but not adequate in PZA molecular susceptibility test design and development. • Mutations of pncA gene greatly contributed to PZA resistance for MTBC. • The mutations of pncA reached a sensitivity of 0.72 to report PZA resistance. • The mutations of pncA reached a specificity of 0.92 to predict PZA susceptibility. • Nearly 30% PZA resistant strains containing wildtype pncA gene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: For sparse and limited angle projection Computed Tomography (CT), the reconstructed image usually suffers from considerable artifacts due to undersampled data. OBJECTIVE: To improve image reconstruction quality of sparse and limited angle projection CT, this study tested a novel reconstruction algorithm based on Dictionary Learning (DL) from sparse and limited projections. METHODS: The study used signal sparse representation and feature extraction to render the DL technology, which is constrained by L2 and Lp norms, respectively. A Lp Norm Dictionary Learning term is suitable for regular term of objective function for CT image reconstruction. This is helpful for solving the objective function by combining algorithm of ART. Based on these features, the new algorithm of ART-DL-Lp is proposed for CT image reconstruction. The alternate solving strategy of the algorithm of "ART first, then adaptive DL" is provided in sequence. The impact on reconstruction results of ART-DL-Lp at different p values (0 < p < 1) is also considered. RESULTS: For non-ideal projections with noise, the digital experiments show that ART-DL-Lp data were superior to those of ART, SART, and ART-DL-L2. Accordingly, the objective evaluation metrics for non-ideal situation of RMSE, MAE, PSNR, Residuals and SSIM are all better than those of contrasted three algorithms. The metrics curves of ART-DL-Lp algorithm are recorded as the best. In both incomplete projection situations, smaller p-value of ART-DL-Lp algorithm induces more close reconstructed images to the original form and better five objective evaluation metrics. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the reconstruction efficiency of the proposed ART-DL-Lp for CT imaging using the noisy incomplete projections outperforms ART, SART and ART-DL-L2 algorithms. For ART-DL-Lp algorithm, lower p-values result in better reconstruction performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: The pathogenic mechanism of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is unclear. Similar to tumour cells, polycystic kidney cells are primarily dependent on aerobic glycolysis for ATP production. Compared with rodents, miniature pigs are more similar to humans. This study is the first time to investigate the effects of the combination of metformin and 2-deoxyglucose (2DG) in a pig model of chronic progressive ADPKD.Experimental Approach: A miniature pig ADPKD model was established by inducible deletion of the PKD1 gene. Blood, urine and kidney biopsy specimens were collected for analysis at specific times. The renal vesicle index was analysed by three-dimensional reconstruction of CT scans. Markers of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and ERK signalling pathways and associated metabolism were detected by Western blots and colorimetry.Key Results: The three-dimensional reconstruction of CT scans indicated a markedly lower renal vesicle index in the combination therapy group. Each drug intervention group showed a significantly lower serum creatinine and urinary protein/creatinine ratio. This treatment regimen also inhibited the activities of markers of the proliferation-related mTOR and ERK pathways, and the expression of key enzymes involved in glycolysis, as well as reducing the production of ATP and lactic acid.Conclusions and Implications: This study showed that the combination of metformin and 2DG blocked the formation of renal cysts and improved the renal function in ADPKD miniature pigs. Our results indicate that the combination of metformin and 2DG may be a promising therapeutic strategy in human ADPKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we develop a new nanopore sensing strategy for the selective detection of microRNAs and single nucleotide variants (SNVs) based on triplex molecular beacon sensors. This sensing system shows very high specificity in discriminating microRNA SNVs and can be applied for the simultaneous detection of several microRNAs of the same family in a mixture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to research the driving effect of the urbanization development speed on water resources conflict by building the risk stress coupling analysis model of urbanization development speed and water conflict. Firstly, we use the nonlinear fuzzy comprehensive adjustment (FCA) measure model based on entropy weight method to determine the level of urbanization and water resources conflict risk, then construct the coupling coordination degree function of urbanization speed and water conflict risk pressure, and calculate the coupling coordination degree. Secondly, we determine the level of water resources conflict according to the coupling coordination degree to obtain the trigger threshold value of water resources conflict and analyze the coupling results. Lastly, we start the instance analysis with Beijing City, Tianjin City, and Hebei Province region in Haihe river basin of China, as an example, by analyzing the influence of the urbanization speed on water resource conflict and by obtaining the threshold value of water resources conflict caused by the effect of water consumption of gross domestic product (GDP) per 10 thousand Yuan and annual per capita domestic water consumption on the urbanization development speed, expressed in interval number. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of growths of crystalline silicon from the melt along 〈100〉, 〈110〉 and 〈112〉 directions have been carried out. Tersoff potential is employed for computing atomic interaction. The results show that in the growths along 〈100〉, 〈110〉, no dislocation was formed, while in the growth along 〈112〉, more than one dislocations formed. The dislocation formed is identified as a partial dislocation lying on an {111} plane, with segments of 30° partial dislocation, 90° partial dislocations and some kinks. The dislocation nucleates stochastically at the crystal/melt interface, where atoms interact with each other to form at least two units of stable periodic non-six-member-ring groups. Once formed, it extends with the crystal growth, with its two ends attached to the crystal/melt interface. The 〈112〉 growth distinguished from the 〈100〉 and 〈110〉 growths by its prone-to-{111}-faceting and twinning, which may be the cause of the significantly higher probability of dislocation nucleation in the 〈112〉 growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A dynamic two-stage SBM model with non-discretionary variables is proposed. • China's CPLR efficiency under four scenarios of extreme temperatures is measured. • The influences of extreme temperatures on the CPLR efficiency are highlighted. • A comparative analysis of CPLR efficiency under four scenarios is provided. With the influence of climate changes resulting in more extremely days, we might expect to face a rise in associated coal productivity losses and land destruction. Numerous studies have focused on measuring the efficiency of coal production system. Yet scant studies have considered their internal structure, reconstructed lands, and especially the impact of extreme temperatures. Then, this paper divided such a system into stages of coal production (CP) and land reconstruction (LR), named the CPLR system. This study proposes a modified two-stage dynamic slacks-based measure model with non-discretionary variables for measuring the CPLR efficiency under four scenarios of extreme temperatures. The results are as follows. (1) The CPLR system for 24 provinces under four scenarios spanning 2012 to 2017 had relatively low efficiency except for Fujian, Inner Mongolia and Sichuan, which is mainly caused by the bad performance of the LR system. (2) Extreme temperatures must be considered in measuring CPLR efficiency and its stage efficiency, or otherwise the underestimation of CPLR efficiency and CP efficiency will become in 18 provinces. The negative impacts of extreme temperatures on the efficiency of reconstructed lands and raw coal production should be noticed, especially for Anhui. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

R5175 --> 839.9 --> Circulatory exosomes have been reported to induce vascular endothelial injury and neointima proliferation in mice with liver‐specific deletion of acid ceramidase gene (Asah1fl/fl/Albcre, Asah1 is mouse code of this gene). However, the precise mechanism mediating this exosome‐induced endothelial injury remains unknown. The present study tested a hypothesis that plasma exosomes from Asah1fl/fl/Albcre mice on the high fat diet (HFD) activate endothelial NLRP3 inflammasome activation leading to endothelial dysfunction. To test this hypothesis, wild type (WT/WT) mice and Asah1fl/fl/Albcre mice were fed with normal diet (ND) or HFD for 2 months. Using immunofluorescence confocal microscopy, we confirmed that ceramide levels significantly increased in the liver of Asah1fl/fl/Albcre mice compared to its WT/WT littermates and that HFD further enhanced lysosome ceramide levels in the liver as shown by the colocalization of ceramide with lysosome marker, lamp‐1. Then, isolated exosomes from the plasma of these mice were used to treat the primary cultured WT/WT endothelial cells from the carotid artery. It was found that exosomes isolated from HFD‐treated mice (HFD‐Exo) even from WT/WT mice significantly stimulated NLRP3 inflammasome formation and activation as shown by the significant increases in the colocalization of NLRP3 with Caspase‐1 or ASC, caspase‐1 activity and interleukin 1 beta (IL‐1β) level in the endothelial cells compared to exosomes from ND treated mice (ND‐Exo). This inflammasome formation and activation were remarkably enhanced if endothelial cells were treated by HFD‐Exo isolated from Asah1fl/fl/Albcre mice. To confirm whether lysosomal ceramide contributes to HFD‐Exo‐induced endothelial NLRP3 inflammasome activation, we further treated endothelial cells with C(2)‐ceramide, which was shown similar effects comparable to that induced by HFD‐Exo. Using dibutyryl‐cAMP, a blocker of ceramide‐induced action significantly attenuated C(2)‐ceramide‐ or HDF‐Exo‐induced enhancement of endothelial NLRP3 inflammmasome activation. Together, these results suggest that liver‐specific deletion of lysosomal Asah1 gene promotes release of HFD‐Exos that may contain high ceramide, activating endothelial NLRP3 inflammasome and thereby resulting in endothelial dysfunction during HFD‐induced liver steatosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Two novel hybrid host–guest architectures based on metal-organic fragments and Keggin polyoxometalates, namely [α-Cu12(trz)8][PMo12O40]·H2O (1) and [β-Cu12(trz)8][PMo12O40]·2H2O (2) (trz=1,2,4-triazole), have been prepared under hydrothermal conditions and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction (XRD), elemental analysis, powder XRD, ESR, FT-IR, UV–Vis, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The [Cu12(trz)8]4+ hosts in compounds 1 and 2 are two-dimensional (2D) supramolecular isomers, which present 44 topology based on Cu4(trz)4 cyclic units and 63 topology based on Cu3(trz)3 cyclic units, respectively. The metalmacrocyclic Cu8(trz)8 and Cu9(trz)9 rings represent the largest examples in the coordination chemistry of 1,2,4-triazole. 2D metal-organic fragments and Keggin anions both are connected via hydrogen bonds and Cu⋯O short contacts to form interesting 3D host–guest architectures of 1 and 2. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Key message: Leaf senescence in sorghum is primarily controlled by the progression, but not by the onset of senescence. The senescence-delaying haplotypes of 45 key genes accentuated from landraces to improved lines. Leaf senescence is a genetically programmed developmental process and plays a central role for plant survival and crop production by remobilising nutrients accumulated in senescent leaves. In theory, the ultimate outcome of leaf senescence is determined by the onset and progression of senescence, but how these two processes contribute to senescence is not fully illustrated in crops and the genetic basis for them is not well understood. Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor), which is known for the remarkable stay-green trait, is ideal for dissecting the genomic architecture underlying the regulation of senescence. In this study, a diverse panel of 333 sorghum lines was explored for the onset and progression of leaf senescence. Trait correlation analysis showed that the progression of leaf senescence, rather than the onset of leaf senescence, significantly correlated with variations of the final leaf greenness. This notion was further supported by GWAS, which identified 31 senescence-associated genomic regions containing 148 genes, of which 124 were related to the progression of leaf senescence. The senescence-delaying haplotypes of 45 key candidate genes were enriched in lines with extremely prolonged senescence duration, while senescence-promoting haplotypes in those with extremely accelerated senescence. Haplotype combinations of these genes could well explain the segregation of the senescence trait in a recombinant inbred population. We also demonstrated that senescence-delaying haplotypes of candidate genes were under strong selection during sorghum domestication and genetic improvement. Together, this research advanced our understanding of crop leaf senescence and provided a suite of candidate genes for functional genomics and molecular breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) displays an excellent potential to serve as a non-food bioenergy feedstock for bioethanol production in China due to its high potential yield on marginal lands. However, few studies have been conducted on the potential of sweet sorghum yield and appropriate industrial models in different marginal regions in China. This study explored the spatial distribution of potential sweet sorghum production using the Decision Support System for Agrotechnology Transfer (DSSAT) model and proposed three typical industrial models of sweet sorghum industry to calculate their economic and ecological benefits. Results: The results indicate that considering the factors of land use, annual precipitation, soil salinity, soil pH, and accumulated temperature, approximately 32.23 million ha of marginal land are suitable for sweet sorghum cultivation in China, and 130 million tonnes (t) of ethanol can be produced. Further, the development of the sweet sorghum industry under the three models can generate 1425.49 billion CNY potential, approximately accounting for 3.57% of industrial added value in China if measured against 2023 levels, and reduce CO2 emissions by 4.68 million t. Conclusions: This study provides an innovative perspective for the multi-industry large-scale promotion of sweet sorghum in different marginal lands based on the high spatial resolution Geographic Information System (GIS) data by the DSSAT model with a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) method, and this applies not only to China but also to the worldwide and other types of energy plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The neurovascular theory is thought to be one of the main pathological mechanisms of migraine. Locus coeruleus (LC) is a major node in the neurovascular pathway. Exploring the functional network characteristics of LC in migraine without aura (MwoA) patients can help us gain insight into the underlying neural mechanisms in MwoA patients. Methods: In this study, we used resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI) and a functional connectivity (FC) approach to explore the functional characteristics of LC in MwoA patients. 17 healthy controls (HCs) and 28 MwoA patients were included in the study. FC was calculated based on rsfMRI data collected by a 3T MRI scanner. General linear model were used to compare whether there were differences in LC brain networks between the two groups. We also utilized logistic regression to explore the role of LC functional networks in the clinical diagnosis of MwoA. Results: After general linear analysis, MwoA patients displayed increased FC from right LC to the left lingual and calcarine sulcus, as well as to the right frontal medial gyrus/orbit part, when compared with HCs. The results of the logistic regression showed that the LC FC signals were 81% accurate in distinguishing MwoA from the HCs. Conclusion: Our results demonstrated that patients with MwoA exhibited significant LC FC differences in the brain areas associated with visual and cognitive function. Understanding the changes in the LC brain network in MwoA patients can provide us with new ideas to understand the pathological mechanisms of MwoA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the demand of hydrogen in PTA (pure terephthalic acid) plant, combining with the byproduct methane in sewage treatment unit of PTA plant, this paper briefly introduced the principles and processes of hydrogen production technology by methane. The analysis results showed that the application and promotion of hydrogen production technology by methane in PTA plant can achieve energy saving and emission reduction, as well as good economic and social prospects. Therefore, it has considerable prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Assisted reproductive technology (ART) is the most effective method to treat infertility and the pathogenesis of implantation failure after in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) is a challenging filed in infertility. Microbes in the female reproductive tract are considered to be associated with gynecological and obstetric diseases. However, its effects on embryo implantation failure are unsured. Purpose: This study aimed to investigate reproductive tract dysbiosis, identify different bacteria in reproductive tract as potential biomarkers of embryo implantation failure and demonstrate the pathogenesis through metabolites analysis. Methods: We compared the data from 16S rRNA gene and metagenome in reproductive tracts through QIIME2 and HUMAnN2 by the times of embryo implantation failure on 239 infertile patients and 17 healthy women. Results: Our study revealed a strong positive correlation between Lactobacillus abundance and embryo implantation success (IS) after IVF-ET. The microbial community composition and structure in reproductive tract showed substantially difference between the embryo implantation failure (IF) and healthy control. Moreover, we established a diagnostic model through receiver operating characteristic (ROC) with 0.913 area under curve (AUC) in IS and multiple implantation failures (MIF), verified its effectiveness with an AUC = 0.784 demonstrating microbial community alterations could efficiently discriminate MIF patients. Metagenome functional analyses of vaginal samples from another independent infertile patients after IVF-ET revealed the L-lysine synthesis pathway enriched in IF patients, along with ascended vaginal pH and decreased Lactobacillus abundance. Conclusions: This study clarifies several independent relationships of bacteria in vagina and endometrial fluid on embryo implantation failure and undoubtedly broadens the understanding about female reproductive health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: As the fifth major cereal crop originated from Africa, sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) has become a key C4 model organism for energy plant research. With the development of high-throughput detection technologies for various omics data, much multi-dimensional and multi-omics information has been accumulated for sorghum. Integrating this information may accelerate genetic research and improve molecular breeding for sorghum agronomic traits. Results: We updated the Sorghum Genome SNP Database (SorGSD) by adding new data, new features and renamed it to Sorghum Genome Science Database (SorGSD). In comparison with the original version SorGSD, which contains SNPs from 48 sorghum accessions mapped to the reference genome BTx623 (v2.1), the new version was expanded to 289 sorghum lines with both single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and small insertions/deletions (INDELs), which were aligned to the newly assembled and annotated sorghum genome BTx623 (v3.1). Moreover, phenotypic data and panicle pictures of critical accessions were provided in the new version. We implemented new tools including ID Conversion, Homologue Search and Genome Browser for analysis and updated the general information related to sorghum research, such as online sorghum resources and literature references. In addition, we deployed a new database infrastructure and redesigned a new user interface as one of the Genome Variation Map databases. The new version SorGSD is freely accessible online at http://ngdc.cncb.ac.cn/sorgsd/. Conclusions: SorGSD is a comprehensive integration with large-scale genomic variation, phenotypic information and incorporates online data analysis tools for data mining, genome navigation and analysis. We hope that SorGSD could provide a valuable resource for sorghum researchers to find variations they are interested in and generate customized high-throughput datasets for further analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractCamrelizumab is an immune checkpoint inhibitor clinically used to treat various types of tumours. In this study, the authors provided the first report of a case of an anaphylactic reaction induced by camrelizumab in the treatment of a patient with squamous cell carcinoma of the floor of the mouth. The patient, a 58-year-old man, was diagnosed with advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the floor of the mouth, with cancer infiltration and multiple metastases. He underwent treatment for nine cycles, in which cycles 1-5 he received camrelizumab, albumin-bound paclitaxel, and cisplatin (200 mg of camrelizumab each time, every 3 weeks), with no adverse reactions; in cycle 6, he received albumin-bound paclitaxel and cisplatin, with no adverse reactions; and in cycles 7-9, he received camrelizumab and albumin-bound paclitaxel. However, 30 min after 8th administration of camrelizumab (cycle 9), he suddenly developed sweating, a pale complexion, clamminess and cyanosis of the limbs (percutaneous arterial oxygen saturation [SpO2] = 82%, blood pressure [BP] = 79/49 mmHg, heart rate [HR] = 83 beats/min [bpm] and respiratory rate [RR) = 12 bpm). The patient underwent intravenous infusion of methylprednisolone (80 mg) combined with dopamine to boost the BP; he regained consciousness 20 min later, and many parts of his skin appeared smooth, with no desquamation and accompanied by itching erythema, especially on the upper limbs. Approximately 2 h after treatment, the patient’s skin erythema subsided (vital sign monitoring results: SpO2 = 100%, BP = 122/84 mmHg, HR = 91 bpm and RR = 17 bpm); the patient did not complain about his obvious discomfort. Despite the rarity of acute anaphylactic reactions among immune-related adverse reactions, great importance should be given to anaphylactic reactions of camrelizumab due to its extensive clinical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acid sphingomyelinase (ASM) has been reported to increase tissue ceramide and thereby mediate hyperhomocysteinemia (hHcy)-induced glomerular nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor containing pyrin domain 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation, inflammation, and sclerosis. In the present study, we tested whether somatic podocyte-specific silencing of Smpd1 gene (mouse ASM gene code) attenuates hHcy-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation and associated extracellular vesicle (EV) release in podocytes and thereby suppresses glomerular inflammatory response and injury. In vivo, somatic podocyte-specific Smpd1 gene silencing almost blocked hHcy-induced glomerular NLRP3 inflammasome activation in Podocre (podocyte-specific expression of cre recombinase) mice compared with control littermates. By nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), floxed Smpd1 shRNA transfection was found to abrogate hHcy-induced elevation of urinary EV excretion in Podocre mice. In addition, Smpd1 gene silencing in podocytes prevented hHcy-induced immune cell infiltration into glomeruli, proteinuria, and glomerular sclerosis in Podocre mice. Such protective effects of podocyte-specific Smpd1 gene silencing were mimicked by global knockout of Smpd1 gene in Smpd1−/− mice. On the contrary, podocyte-specific Smpd1 gene overexpression exaggerated hHcy-induced glomerular pathological changes in Smpd1trg/Podocre (podocyte-specific Smpd1 gene overexpression) mice, which were significantly attenuated by transfection of floxed Smpd1 shRNA. In cell studies, we also confirmed that Smpd1 gene knockout or silencing prevented homocysteine (Hcy)-induced elevation of EV release in the primary cultures of podocyte isolated from Smpd1−/− mice or podocytes of Podocre mice transfected with floxed Smpd1 shRNA compared with WT/WT podocytes. Smpd1 gene overexpression amplified Hcy-induced EV secretion from podocytes of Smpd1trg/Podocre mice, which was remarkably attenuated by transfection of floxed Smpd1 shRNA. Mechanistically, Hcy-induced elevation of EV release from podocytes was blocked by ASM inhibitor (amitriptyline, AMI), but not by NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitors (MCC950 and glycyrrhizin, GLY). Super-resolution microscopy also showed that ASM inhibitor, but not NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitors, prevented the inhibition of lysosome-multivesicular body interaction by Hcy in podocytes. Moreover, we found that podocyte-derived inflammatory EVs (released from podocytes treated with Hcy) induced podocyte injury, which was exaggerated by T cell coculture. Interstitial infusion of inflammatory EVs into renal cortex induced glomerular injury and immune cell infiltration. In conclusion, our findings suggest that ASM in podocytes plays a crucial role in the control of NLRP3 inflammasome activation and inflammatory EV release during hHcy and that the development of podocyte-specific ASM inhibition or Smpd1 gene silencing may be a novel therapeutic strategy for treatment of hHcy-induced glomerular disease with minimized side effect. NEW & NOTEWORTHY: In the present study, we tested whether podocyte-specific silencing of Smpd1 gene attenuates hyperhomocysteinemia (hHcy)-induced nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor containing pyrin domain 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation and associated inflammatory extracellular vesicle (EV) release in podocytes and thereby suppresses glomerular inflammatory response and injury. Our findings suggest that acid sphingomyelinase (ASM) in podocytes plays a crucial role in the control of NLRP3 inflammasome activation and inflammatory EV release during hHcy. Based on our findings, it is anticipated that the development of podocyte-specific ASM inhibition or Smpd1 gene silencing may be a novel therapeutic strategy for treatment of hHcy-induced glomerular disease with minimized side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Definitive concurrent chemoradiotherapy (dCCRT) is the gold standard for the treatment of locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). However, the potential benefits of consolidation chemotherapy after dCCRT in patients with esophageal cancer remain debatable. Prospective randomized controlled trials comparing the outcomes of dCCRT with or without consolidation chemotherapy in patients with ESCC are lacking. In this study, we aim to generate evidence regarding consolidation chemotherapy efficacy in patients with locally advanced, inoperable ESCC. Methods: This is a multicenter, prospective, open-label, phase-III randomized controlled trial comparing non-inferiority of dCCRT alone to consolidation chemotherapy following dCCRT. In total, 600 patients will be enrolled and randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive either consolidation chemotherapy after dCCRT (Arm A) or dCCRT alone (Arm B). Overall survival will be the primary endpoint, whereas progression-free survival, locoregional progression-free survival, distant metastasis-free survival, and treatment-related toxicity will be the secondary endpoints. Discussion: This study aid in further understanding the effects of consolidation chemotherapy after dCCRT in patients with locally advanced, inoperable ESCC. Trial registration: ChiCTR1800017646. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study conducted to know chemical constituents isolated from fruits of Lonicera maackii. Topics discussed include specimen collection method for the study, extraction and isolation method employed, and various constituents isolated in the process. It is noted that fruits of Lonicera were collected from Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Province, China, in October 2010 and isolated components include sucrose, glucose, hederagenin and Stigmasterol.

N-phenylmaleimide (N-PMI) and its precursor, (Z)-4-oxo-4-(phenylamino)but-2-enoic acid, were synthesized from aniline and maleic anhydride. Copolymerization between N-phenylmaleimide and styrene was initiated in micropores and outside surface of porous polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin suspended in aqueous phase. The modified PVC was characterized with Gel Permeation Chromatography, thermal gravimetric analysis and scanning electron microscopy. The result of high performance liquid chromatography shows that the purity of N-PMI reached 97.3%. Thermal gravimetric analysis indicated that the introduction of N-PMI could clearly affect the thermal degradation behavior of PVC, and when PMI was at 6.25% of the PVC mass, the decomposition temperature T0.5 of modified polymer was increased to 314.2°C. The glass transition temperature of modified polymer was increased from 70°C to 80°C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This prospectively randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, multicenter Phase 3 clinical trial was conducted to assess the efficacy and safety profile of nimotuzumab (nimo) plus concurrent chemo-radiotherapy (CCRT) in patients with unresectable locally advanced ESCC. Methods: Patients were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive CCRT plus nimotuzumab or placebo. The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS). In addition, interim analysis for short-term response rate was pre-defined. Results: A total of 201 patients were randomised into two groups. Eighty patients in the nimo group and eighty-two in the placebo group were evaluable. Three to six months after treatment, 26 (32.5%) patients achieved complete response (CR) in the nimo group, and 10 (12.2%) in the placebo group (P = 0.002). The ORR of the nimo group was significantly higher than the placebo group (93.8% vs. 72.0%, P < 0.001). The two groups' grade 3–5 adverse drug reactions were 11.1% vs. 10.9% (P > 0.05). Conclusions: Nimotuzumab, in combination with chemo-radiotherapy, increased the CRR and ORR with a good safety profile. The OS is needed to be followed and finally analysed. Clinical trial registration: NCT02409186. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The activation of nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor containing pyrin domain 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome has been reported to importantly contribute to glomerular inflammation and injury under different pathological conditions such as obesity. However, the mechanism mediating NLRP3 inflammasome activation in podocytes and subsequent glomerular injury remains poorly understood. Given that the ceramide signaling pathway has been reported to be implicated in obesity-related glomerulopathy (ORG), the present study was designed to test whether the ceramide-producing enzyme, acid sphingomyelinase (ASM), determines NLRP3 inflammasome activation and inflammatory exosome release in podocytes leading to glomerular inflammation and injury during ORG. In Smpd1trg/Podocre mice, podocyte-specific overexpression of Smpd1 gene which encodes ASM significantly exaggerated high-fat diet (HFD)-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation in podocytes and immune cell infiltration in glomeruli compared to WT/WT mice. Smpd1 gene deletion, however, blocked these pathological changes induced by HFD in Smpd1−/− mice. Accompanied with NLRP3 inflammasome activation and glomerular inflammation, urinary excretion of exosomes containing podocyte marker and NLRP3 inflammasome products (IL-1β and IL-18) in Smpd1trg/Podocre mice on the HFD was much higher than that in WT/WT mice. In contrast, Smpd1−/− mice on the HDF had significantly lower urinary exosome excretion than WT/WT mice. Correspondingly, HFD-induced podocyte injury, glomerular sclerosis, and proteinuria were more severe in Smpd1trg/Podocre mice, but milder in Smpd1−/− mice compared to WT/WT mice. Using podocytes isolated from these mice, we demonstrated that visfatin, a prototype pro-inflammatory adipokine, induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation and enrichment of multivesicular bodies (MVBs) containing IL-1β in podocytes, which was much stronger in podocytes from Smpd1trg/Podocre mice, but weaker in those from Smpd1−/− mice than WT/WT podocytes. By quantitative analysis of exosomes, it was found that upon visfatin stimulation, podocytes from Smpd1trg/Podocre mice released much more exosomes containing NLRP3 inflammasome products, but podocytes from Smpd1−/− mice released much less exosomes compared to WT/WT podocytes. Super-resolution microscopy demonstrated that visfatin inhibited lysosome-MVB interaction in podocytes, indicating impaired MVB degradation by lysosome. The inhibition of lysosome-MVB interaction by visfatin was amplified by Smpd1 gene overexpression but attenuated by Smpd1 gene deletion. Taken together, our results suggest that ASM in podocytes is a crucial regulator of NLRP3 inflammasome activation and inflammatory exosome release that instigate glomerular inflammation and injury during obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MLN8237 is a highly potent and presumably selective inhibitor of Aurora kinase A (AKA) and has shown promising antitumor activities. Like other kinase inhibitors which target the ATP-binding site of kinases, MLN8237 might be expected to have potential cellular off-targets. Herein, we report the first photoaffinity-based, small molecule AKA probe capable of both live-cell imaging of AKA activities and in situ proteome profiling of potential off-targets of MLN8237 (including AKA-associating proteins). By using two mutually compatible, bioorthogonal reactions (copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition chemistry and TCO-tetrazine ligation), we demostrate small molecule-based multiplex bioimaging for simultaneous in situ monitoring of two important cell-cycle regulating kinases (AKA and CDK1). A broad range of proteins, as potential off-targets of MLN8237 and AKA's-interacting partners, is subsequently identified by affinity-based proteome profiling coupled with large-scale LC-MS/MS analysis. From these studies, we discover novel AKA interactions which were further validated by cell-based immunoprecipitation (IP) experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although several studies have indicated that the analytical thinking style led to more utilitarian moral judgments, the mechanism underlying this finding was still not clear. We explored the relationship between thinking modes and moral judgment with a process-dissociation approach in two studies. In Study 1, participants were first asked to make a judgment on the moral appropriateness of the agent's utilitarian action on four moral dilemmas, and then they were asked to recall the extent to which the judgment was based on intuitive versus analytical thinking mode. In Study 2, participants were instructed to use the intuitive or the analytical thinking mode during moral judgment on six pairs of moral dilemmas. The results of both studies indicated that the analytical thinking mode led to utilitarian moral judgments. The results of Study 2 also indicated the utilitarian inclinations mediated the association between thinking modes and moral judgment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To investigate the safety, efficacy, and practicability of minimally invasive percutaneous nephrolithotomy (MPCNL) with the aid of a patented irrigation clearance system in treating renal staghorn calculi. Methods: From August 2009 to July 2014, 4 hospitals had executed a prospective multicenter study with a total of 912 cases. The patients were randomly divided into 3 groups: suctioning MPCNL, standard percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), and traditional MPCNL groups. Multiple operative and perioperative parameters were compared. Results: Blood loss and intrapelvic pressure in the suctioning MPCNL group were significantly less than those in the standard PCNL group. The average operation time, intrapelvic pressure, and amount of bleeding in the suctioning MPCNL group were better than those in the traditional MPCNL group. The suctioning MPCNL used one tract more frequently and 2 or 3 tracts less frequently than the standard MPCNL and traditional MPCNL groups. The stone-free rate by one surgery in the suctioning MPCNL group was significantly higher than that in standard PCNL and traditional MPNCL groups. Conclusions: Suctioning MPCNL using our patented system shows several advantages in treating renal staghorn calculi, including minimal invasion, shorter operation time, lower intrapelvic pressure, less bleeding and the need for a smaller number of ­percutaneous tracts, and higher stone clearance rate by one ­surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pathogenic mechanism of polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is unclear. Abnormal glucose metabolism is maybe involved in hyper-proliferation of renal cyst epithelial cells. Mini-pigs are more similar to humans than rodents and therefore, are an ideal large animal model. In this study, for the first time, we systematically investigated the changes in glucose metabolism and cell proliferation signaling pathways in the kidney tissues of chronic progressive PKD mini-pig models created by knock-outing PKD1gene. The results showed that in the kidneys of PKD mini-pigs, the glycolysis is increased and the expressions of key oxidative phosphorylation enzymes Complexes I and IV significantly decreased. The activities of mitochondrial respiration chain Complexes I and IV significantly decreased; the phosphorylation level of key metabolism-modulating molecule AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) significantly decreased; and the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling pathway are activated obviously. This study showed that in the kidneys of PKD mini-pigs, the level of glycolysis significantly increased, oxidative phosphorylation significantly decreased, and cell proliferation signaling pathways significantly activated, suggesting that metabolic changes in PKD may result in the occurrence and development of PKD through the activation of proliferation signaling pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protein corona formation can lead to obstructive screening of targeting groups of nanoparticles (NPs). Also, the targeting groups are subjected to physiochemical interactions when exposed to solvents. Here, these two factors can influence NP targeting efficiency. Therefore, it is necessary to prepare a general method of preparing an anti-fouling NPs with protected targeting groups. Here, we designed α-amylase-starch double-layer coated poly (methyl methacrylate- co -acrylic acid) NPs (α-ams-SCMMA NPs), functionalized with aptamer targeting groups and doped with Tetrakis(para-hydraoxylphenyl) porphyrin (TPPOH) as a payload drug. Natural polysaccharide starch and enzyme α-amylase were applied here for thermo-sensitive activation of starch hydrolyzation in order to render the NPs' self-polishing from protein corona effects. During incubation with serum media, the protein corona was formed at the exterior shell of NPs, while the self-polishing process was activated to remove the "protein fouling" when the incubation temperature increased to 37 °C (body temperature). Mechanistically, the starch layer of α-ams-SCMMA NPs was readily hydrolysed by α-amylase, whereby the adsorbed protein corona could be efficiently eliminated and the targeting groups were then presented. With this unique self-polishing NP design, we believe our method can be applied for potential NP applications in cancer therepy due to excellent antifouling property and protected targeting groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enhancement of silicon heterojunction (SHJ) solar cells by light-thermal treatment has been analyzed in terms of their electrical resistivity changes. Three types of transmission line model (TLM) structures were prepared to analyze the changes of the solar cells in their Ag/ITO contact resistivity, and electron and hole transport resistivity respectively, in the light-thermal processes. The results showed that the contact resistivity of Ag/ITO increased by 88.5 mΩ cm2 and the transport performance improvement of holes is significantly better than that of electrons. Further examinations showed that the former was due to the deterioration of the ITO films, while the latter was due to the enhanced dark conductivity of doped a-Si:H layers and the different performance between (n)a-Si:H and (p)a-Si:H during the light-thermal process. A general efficiency gain of 0.3% abs was found for this batch of solar cells. An alternative batch of SHJ solar cells with better ITO films grown elsewhere, which did not deteriorate in the light-thermal process, was found to achieve 0.5% abs gain in efficiency by the same light-thermal process. • The generalized rules of the enhancement of SHJ solar cells from five companies after LT treatment were analyzed. • The contact performance of solar cell materials after LT treatment was studied. • Light-induced increase of dark conductance of (p)a-Si:H film is more sensitive to illumination than (n)a-Si:H film. • Electrical properties of TCO after LT treatment were studied and achieved 0.5% abs efficiency gain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Red leaves are common in trees but rare in cereal crops. Red leaves can be used as raw materials for anthocyanin extraction and may have some adaptive significance for plants. In this study, we discovered a red leaf phenotype in the F1 hybrids derived from a cross between two sorghum accessions with green leaf. Histological analysis of red leaves and green leaves showed that red compounds accumulate in mesophyll cells and gradually spreads to the entire leaf blade. In addition, we found chloroplasts degraded more quickly in red leaves than in green leaves based on transmission electron microscopy. Metabolic analysis revealed that flavonoids including six anthocyanins are more abundant in red leaves. Moreover, transcriptome analysis revealed that expression of flavonoid biosynthesis genes was upregulated in red leaves. These observations indicate that flavonoids and anthocyanins in particular, are ideal candidates for the red compounds accumulating in red leaves. Segregation analysis of the red leaf phenotype suggested a genetic architecture consisting of three dominant genes, one (RL1 for RED LEAF1) of which we mapped to a 55‐kb region on chromosome 7 containing seven genes. Sequencing, reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction, and transcriptome analysis suggested Sobic.007G214300, encoding a wall‐associated kinase, as the most likely candidate for RL1. Fine mapping the red leaf gene and identifying the metabolites that cause red leaf in sorghum provide us with a better understanding of the red leaf phenotype in the natural population of sorghum. Significance Statement: RL1 contributes to red leaves in sorghum by working with two other unknown genes. Fine mapping the red leaf gene and identifying the metabolites that cause red leaf in sorghum provide us with a better understanding of the red leaf phenotype in the natural population of sorghum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although many studies have described the roles of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the modulation of the endothelial response to shear stress, the mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Here, we demonstrate that miR-34a expression in endothelial cells was downregulated by atheroprotective physiological high shear stress (HSS), whereas it was upregulated by atheroprone oscillatory shear stress (OSS). Blockade of endogenous miR-34a dramatically decreased basal vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) protein expression levels. Conversely, miR-34a overexpression increased the protein levels of VCAM-1 and ICAM-1, consequently promoting monocyte adhesion to endothelial cells. Furthermore, miR-34a overexpression attenuated HSS-mediated suppression of VCAM-1 protein expression on endothelial cells, but promoted HSS-induced ICAM-1 expression. In addition, the OSS induction of endothelial cell VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 was suppressed by using an miR-34a inhibitor, which led to a reduction of monocyte adhesion to endothelial cells. Mechanistically, sirtuin 1 overexpression partially prevented miR-34a-induced VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 expression. Subsequent investigation demonstrated that miR-34a increased nuclear factor KB (NF-KB) p65 subunit (also known as RelA) acetylation (on residue Lys310), and silencing NF-KB signaling reduced miR-34a-induced VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 protein expression. These results demonstrate that miR-34a is involved in the flow-dependent regulation of endothelial inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Autophagy is a bulk protein and organelle degradation process essential for cellular maintenance, cell viability and development. This study investigated the prognostic role of LC3 and Beclin-1, two autophagy-related proteins, in patients with locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) treated with definitive chemoradiation. The data of 150 patients with stages II–IVa ESCC who had undergone definitive concurrent chemoradiation were studied; LC3 and Beclin-1 protein expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry and western blot. The correlations between LC3 and Beclin-1 expression, the patients’ clinicopathological features, and overall survival were analyzed. Eighty-three patients showed positive LC3 and 84 showed positive Beclin-1 protein expressions, but LC3 and Beclin-1 expression in ESCC was not significantly correlated (P =0.746). LC3 and Beclin-1 expression did not show any association with gender, age, tumor location, and treatment response. The median survival of patients with positive LC3 expression was 23.6 months, while the median survival was 32.0 months in patients with negative LC3 expression (P =0.049). The patients with LC3 and Beclin-1-positive tumors presented much poorer long-term survival. Multivariate analysis showed that clinical stage (P =0.019), treatment response (P =0.002), and LC3 expression level (P =0.021) were independent predictive factors of overall survival in patients with locally advanced ESCC receiving definitive chemoradiation. Patients with LC3 and Beclin-1-negative expression had a better overall survival than those with LC3 and Beclin-1-positive tumors. LC3 expression is an independent prognostic factor for overall survival in ESCC patients treated with definitive chemoradiation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Uniform ZnS nanocrystals of about 15 nm were prepared through a low temperature hydrothermal approach by treating Zn-PhPO nanosheets with NaS aqueous solution. Both the precursor and the final product were studied by the means of X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The photo-luminescent spectrum of the synthesized ZnS nanocrystals showed their good crystalline nature. Based on this study, the precursor structure-controlling effect was discussed, and in addition, the relevant factors possibly affecting the particle formation and the growth possessed were applied in the discussion to interpret the transformation mechanism. Further research showed that both the structure characters of the precursors and the mass transportation which occurred during the synthesis greatly affected the morphology and organization state of the final products. This research may provide some facts on the structure-controlling approaches along with a general method for the preparation of uniform sulfide nanocrystals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: An extended McEvily model for fatigue crack growth analysis of metal structures is proposed in this paper. In comparing with our previous work, the extension is mainly concerned with the following two aspects: (1) the slope of the fatigue crack growth rate curve is regarded as a variable rather than a fixed value for different materials; (2) both the maximum stress intensity factor at the crack opening level, K op,max and the effective stress intensity factor range at the threshold level, ΔK eff,th are functions of load ratio, R and they are determined by the curve fitting method. Results indicate that the value of K op,max tends to decrease slightly as load ratio increases where crack closure is experimentally detected. According to the present data obtained through the nonlinear least squares fitting method and discussions on the experimental results in the published literature, the parameter ΔK eff,th increases with increasing load ratios where crack closure exists and decreases at high load ratios where the experimental data are closure free. In this paper, all the parameters in the extended McEvily model are assumed to be unknown in advance and they are estimated through the curve fitting method based on the experimental data. The method is also put forward to determine material constants in the crack growth rate law based on the fitting parameters under different load ratios. Comparison between the predicted results and the corresponding experimental data with different load ratios reveals that the extended McEvily model can account for the load ratio effect reasonably well. Based on our previous work this model can also be expected to explain other fatigue phenomena. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Semantic conflicts happen frequently during collaborative editing of design documents. The problem of semantic consistency of words and the maintenance of users'' editing intentions are the two major challenges when resolving those semantic conflicts. Based on WordNet this paper presents an ontology description language—FLoDL and introduces it to describe the global ontology library (GOL) and the individual ontology library (IOL) in collaborative editing. By this means, we reconstruct the architecture of collaborative editing and propose a mixed peer-to-peer structured semantic collaborative editing architecture. Then a new algorithm for inserting operations, from which semantic conflicts are often caused, is designed to solve the problem of semantic consistency of words. Moreover, by adding users'' individualized semantic information into their IOL, we provide the users with individualized services and successfully maintain users'' editing intensions. Finally, through some detailed experiments, we perform a compared analysis to show that semantic collaborative editing not only keeps smaller clients (less storage space) but also localizes many editing operations and thereby improves the performance of collaborative editing. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Key message: The importance and potential of the multi-purpose crop sorghum in global food security have not yet been fully exploited, and the integration of the state-of-art genomics and high-throughput technologies into breeding practice is required. Sorghum, a historically vital staple food source and currently the fifth most important major cereal, is emerging as a crop with diverse end-uses as food, feed, fuel and forage and a model for functional genetics and genomics of tropical grasses. Rapid development in high-throughput experimental and data processing technologies has significantly speeded up sorghum genomic researches in the past few years. The genomes of three sorghum lines are available, thousands of genetic stocks accessible and various genetic populations, including NAM, MAGIC, and mutagenised populations released. Functional and comparative genomics have elucidated key genetic loci and genes controlling agronomical and adaptive traits. However, the knowledge gained has far away from being translated into real breeding practices. We argue that the way forward is to take a genome-based approach for tailored designing of sorghum as a multi-functional crop combining excellent agricultural traits for various end uses. In this review, we update the new concepts and innovation systems in crop breeding and summarise recent advances in sorghum genomic researches, especially the genome-wide dissection of variations in genes and alleles for agronomically important traits. Future directions and opportunities for sorghum breeding are highlighted to stimulate discussion amongst sorghum academic and industrial communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leaf senescence is important for crop yield as delaying it can increase the average yield. In this study, population genetics and transcriptomic profiling were combined to dissect its genetic basis in maize. To do this, the progenies of an elite maize hybrid Jidan27 and its parental lines Si-287 (early senescence) and Si-144 (stay-green), as well as 173 maize inbred lines were used. We identified two novel loci and their candidate genes, Stg3 (ZmATG18b) and Stg7 (ZmGH3.8), which are predicted to be members of autophagy and auxin pathways, respectively. Genomic variations in the promoter regions of these two genes were detected, and four allelic combinations existed in the examined maize inbred lines. The Stg3 Si-144/ Stg7 Si-144 allelic combination with lower ZmATG18b expression and higher ZmGH3.8 expression could distinctively delay leaf senescence, increase ear weight and the improved hybrid of NIL- Stg3Si-144 / Stg7Si-144 × Si-144 significantly reduced ear weight loss under drought stress, while opposite effects were observed in the Stg3 Si-287/ Stg7 Si-287 combination with a higher ZmATG18b expression and lower ZmGH3.8 expression. Thus, we identify a potential interaction between autophagy and auxin which could modulate the timing of maize leaf senescence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: During isolation, sharing physical activity experiences on social network sites (SNS) can enhance individual social connectedness. The objective of the present study was to examine the associations between sharing physical activity experiences on SNS, positive self-presentation, positive feedback, and social connectedness during isolation.Methods: Based on the Physical Activity Experience Sharing Scale, Social Connectedness Scale, Positive Self-Presentation Scale, and Online Positive Feedback Scale, we collected 460 questionnaires online from across 31 provinces, municipalities and autonomous regions in China. We used multiple linear regression models to investigate the relationship between variables, and used bootstrapping to test for mediation..Results: During isolation, sharing physical activity experiences was positively associated with social connectedness (b = 0.308, p < 0.001), as well as with positive self-presentation(b = 0.956, p < 0.001)and positive feedback(b = 0.421, p < 0.001). In addition,we found that positive self-presentation showed a significant positive impact on positive feedback (b = 0.563, p < 0.001), and that positive self-presentation(b = 0.331, p < 0.001) and positive feedback(b = 0.311, p < 0.001) were positively associated with social connectedness. Finally, we found an effect on sharing physical activity experiences indirectly through positive self-presentation (b = 0.316, 95% CI: [0.180, 0.463]),and positive feedback (b = 0.131, 95% CI: [0.063, 0.207]) and that the mediation chain between the two also had a significant impact on social connectedness (b = 0.167, 95% CI: [0.088, 0.251]).Conclusions: During the COVID-19 pandemic, sharing physical activity experiences on SNS can create a positive, healthy, and energetic personal image, gain recognition from others, and establish new interpersonal relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An α-N-acetylgalactosamine-containing quenched activity-based probe (qABP) was designed and successfully synthesized, and it was subsequently used in directed enzyme evolution experiments aided by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) for the discovery of an α-N-acetylgalactosaminidase variant with improved catalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we report the morphology, crystal structure, photo-physics, and electroluminescence characteristics of perovskite materials containing a mixture of methylammonium (MA) and ethylammonium (EA) cations with the form MA x EA (1−x) PbBr 3. Hybridization of MA and EA cations simultaneously increases the photoluminescence quantum yield and thermal-, environmental-, and photo-stability of perovskite materials as the result of crystal structure modification, defect passivation, and morphology improvement. The addition of a large-group ammonium bromide further reduces defect density and raises the maximum external quantum efficiency of related light-emitting devices to 14.5%. These findings enrich the library of A-site cations for efficient perovskite light-emitting devices and may pave the way toward the realization of high performance multication perovskites-based light-emitting devices. Image 1 • Mixed methylammonium and ethylammonium perovskites-based light-emitting devices. • Complimentary defect passivation effects of a large-group ammonium bromide and cation alloying. • Multication perovskites-based light-emitting devices with a maximum EQE of 14.5%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Descriptor of ethylene conversion and selectivity (E ads, C2H2 - E ads, C2H4), calculations show that the energy barrier difference between Ni-M is greater than Ni. • Excellent geometric and electronic structures of Ni-M allow ethylene to be weakly adsorbed on the surface through π bonds. • Charge density results of C 2 H 4 * suggest that the adsorption of ethylene was weakened due to the transfer of charge from Fe and Co atoms to Ni atoms. • The energy barrier of ethylene desorbed is less than that of hydrogenation, so the desorbed of ethylene is greater than the hydrogenation, ensuring the reaction selectivity. Nickel-based bimetallic catalysts exhibit excellent ethylene selectivity in acetylene hydrogenation reactions. However, the rational design and control of the interaction between active adsorbates and catalyst surfaces still remains a significant challenge. In this paper, the introduction of the second metals Fe, Co, Mn, and Mo dilutes the catalyst surface and alters the electronic properties of Ni. As a result of the geometric and electronic dual modulation between the bimetals, ethylene is adsorbed on the catalyst surface through weak π-bonds, which accelerates the desorption of ethylene. In addition, alloying a second metal in Ni significantly lowers the desorption energy of ethylene compared to the hydrogenation barrier, which improves the selectivity of the reaction, and the experimental findings further confirm the validity of the calculations. This work offering a new strategy to the development Ni-based bimetallic catalysts by modulating the strength of adsorbed species on the catalyst surface to attain superior catalytic performance in hydrogenation reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]