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In this paper, we solve the vibration problem of a finite bar with a viscously damped boundary in conjunction with a spring on the same side subject to the support motion on the other side. To avoid the computation of complex modes and the difficulty of orthogonal conditions for the partial differential equation (PDE) of a continuous system, two alternatives are employed. One is the analytical derivation by using the diamond rule of the method of characteristics. The advantage is that this method can yield an analytical solution. However, the disadvantage is that the method can be only applied to some simple problems such as a linear system and the one-dimensional (1D) wave equation. The other numerical method, finite element method (FEM), is incorporated into a general-purpose program to solve this problem. The advantage of the FEM is that this methodology can be applied to solve various problems such as different PDEs. Therefore, the solution obtained by using the FEM is compared with that of the analytical solution. Two special cases, only a spring and a damper alone, are also considered by using the FEM. Interestingly, the same silent area is captured in the displacement profile by using the FEM for the three cases. We also find that the displacement profiles have slope discontinuity which only occurs on the characteristic line. After the wave front arrives at the boundary, various responses appear due to different boundaries, spring, damper and both. It is found that the displacement amplitude of the general case is smaller than the other two special cases. This result matches the application of engineering practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed color is a critical quality trait in numerous plant species. In oilseed Brassica crops, including rapeseed and mustard, yellow seeds are distinguished by their significantly higher oil content and faster germination rates compared to black or brown counterparts. Despite the agronomic significance of the yellow seeds being a prime breeding target, the mechanisms underlying elevated oil content remain obscure. In this study, we assembled the first telomere-to-telomere (T2T) genome of B. juncea and further investigated the genetic regulation, molecular mechanism, and the evolutionary history of yellow seeds in B. juncea. Through an analysis of allelic variation in the TRANSPARENT TESTA 8 (TT8) genes across 1,002 worldwide B. juncea accessions, we traced the single origin of yellow seeds to approximately 2,300 y ago in Southwestern China. Furthermore, we discovered the MADS-box gene SEEDSTICK (STK) coevolved with TT8, and they coordinately regulated seed size, oil accumulation, and seed coat proportion in B. juncea. These findings open broad avenues for targeted breeding of yellow-seeded Brassica crops with elevated oil content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of Mobile Edge Computing (MEC) for the Internet of Vehicles (IoV), vehicles can establish communication connections with other entities to access relevant IoV services. However, current research on offloading schemes rarely considers the utilization of idle computing resources available on the road. To address this issue and provide a more efficient offloading scheme that makes more efficient use of computing resources, we propose a vehicle-edge-cloud collaborative offloading scheme incorporating Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) communication. Our scheme effectively utilizes the computing resources of Task-Requesting Vehicles (TRVs), Idle Computing Resource Vehicles (ICRVs), edge devices, and the cloud. First, a vehicle position determination mechanism is designed to ensure the stability of the task offloading process. Second, latency models, energy consumption models, task completion quality models, and multi-objective optimization models are constructed. In addition, an improved NSGA-II algorithm is proposed for task offloading decisions. Finally, the feasibility and stability of the proposed scheme are validated through simulation experiments. The results show that, compared with other schemes, the proposed scheme significantly improves system latency, energy consumption, and service quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Various prediction models have been developed for extremity metastasis and sarcoma. This systematic review aims to evaluate extremity metastasis and sarcoma models using the utility prediction model (UPM) evaluation framework. Methods: We followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane to identify articles presenting original prediction models with 1-year survival outcome for extremity metastasis and 5-year survival outcome for sarcoma. Identified models were assessed using the UPM score (0–16), categorized as excellent (12–16), good (7–11), fair (3–6), or poor (0–2). A total of 5 extremity metastasis and 94 sarcoma models met inclusion criteria and were analyzed for design, validation, and performance. Results: We assessed 5 models for extremity metastasis and 94 models for sarcoma. Only 4 out of 99 (4%) models achieved excellence, 1 from extremity metastasis and 3 from sarcoma. The majority were rated good (62%; 61/99), followed by fair (31%, 31/99) and poor (3%, 3/99). Conclusions: Most predictive models for extremity metastasis and sarcoma fall short of UPM excellence. Suboptimal study design, limited external validation, and the infrequent availability of web-based calculators are main drawbacks. Level of evidence: This study is classified as Level 2a evidence according to the Oxford 2011 Levels of Evidence. Trial registration This study was registered in PROSEPRO (CRD42022373391, https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=373391). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the previous study, discarded oyster farming bamboo scaffolding (BS) demonstrated the potential for application in pulping and papermaking through the soda pulping process. However, soda pulping involves high temperatures and chemical dosages. Therefore, this study develops an alternative pulping process to lower temperature and chemical demands by utilizing a high-consistency kneader (HCK), simultaneously promoting the utilization of BS in pulping and papermaking. This study applies a factorial experimental design to assess the impact of thermo-alkali pretreating conditions (temperature and NaOH dosage) by analyzing pulping yield, freeness, fiber appearance, and handsheet properties. The factorial analysis shows that the temperature and NaOH dosage of thermo-alkali pretreatment significantly affect the pulp properties. The optimal condition of 125℃ and 7.5% NaOH dosage has the highest accepts ratio, the best refining capacity, and the highest handsheet strength. Further compared with previous soda pulping research, utilizing HCK can produce similar pulp properties while increasing the pulping yield and reducing the temperature (-26.5%) and chemical demands (-46.4%). In summary, HCK demonstrates feasibility and potential for application in the pulping process, offering a new perspective on mechanical pulping as presented in this study, while also creating an opportunity to promote BS utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The relationship between diabetes and heart failure significantly impacts public health. This study assessed the prognostic nutritional index (PNI) as a predictor of heart failure risk in adult diabetic patients. Methods: An analysis was performed on 1823 diabetic adults using data collected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 1999 and 2016. Serum albumin levels and lymphocyte counts were combined to calculate the PNI. We used descriptive statistics categorized by PNI quartiles and performed multivariate logistic regression to adjust for variables including age, gender, ethnicity, and coexisting medical conditions. Results: The median age (mean ± SD) was 59.942 ± 12.171 years, and the mean value ± SD of the PNI was 52.412 ± 5.430. The prevalence of heart failure was 7.405%. In the fully adjusted model, for each 1-unit increase in PNI, the risk of heart failure decreased by 8.2% (odds ratio (OR), 0.918; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.884, 0.953). Participants in the highest PNI quartile (Q4) had a 63% reduced risk of heart failure compared to those in the lowest quartile (Q1). Tests for interactions did not reveal any statistically significant differences among these stratified subgroups (p for interaction > 0.05). Conclusions: This study demonstrated that a higher PNI was significantly associated with a decreased prevalence of heart failure in adults with diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: In ovarian cancer (OvCa), tumor cell high glucocorticoid receptor (GR) has been associated with poor patient prognosis. In vitro, GR activation inhibits chemotherapy-induced OvCa cell death in association with transcriptional upregulation of genes encoding anti-apoptotic proteins. A recent randomized phase II study demonstrated improvement in progression-free survival (PFS) for heavily pre-treated OvCa patients randomized to receive therapy with a selective GR modulator (SGRM) plus chemotherapy compared to chemotherapy alone. We hypothesized that SGRM therapy would improve carboplatin response in OvCa patient-derived xenograft (PDX). Methods: Six high-grade serous (HGS) OvCa PDX models expressing GR mRNA (NR3C1) and protein were treated with chemotherapy +/- SGRM. Tumor size was measured longitudinally by peritoneal transcutaneous ultrasonography. Results: One of the 6 GR-positive PDX models showed a significant improvement in PFS with the addition of a SGRM. Interestingly, the single model with an improved PFS was least carboplatin sensitive. Possible explanations for the modest SGRM activity include the high carboplatin sensitivity of 5 of the PDX tumors and the potential that SGRMs activate the tumor invasive immune cells in patients (absent from immunocompromised mice). The level of tumor GR protein expression alone appears insufficient for predicting SGRM response. Conclusion: The significant improvement in PFS shown in 1 of the 6 models after treatment with a SGRM plus chemotherapy underscores the need to determine predictive biomarkers for SGRM therapy in HGS OvCa and to better identify patient subgroups that are most likely to benefit from adding GR modulation to chemotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gas kick represents a major risk in deepwater oil and gas exploration. Understanding the dynamics of gas kick evolution and the associated pressure response characteristics is critical for effective well control. In this paper, we introduce a transient wellbore multiphase flow model specifically developed to simulate gas kick in deepwater dual-gradient drilling, incorporating a downhole separator. The model accounts for the variable mass flow within the annulus and heat exchange between the annular fluid and the formation. Using this model, we analyzed the multiphase flow and thermodynamic behavior during the gas kick. Simulation results reveal a progressive increase in bottom-hole temperature, underscoring its potential as a key indicator for gas kick early detection. Additionally, variable gradient parameters affect not only the annular equivalent circulating density (ECD) profile but also the evolution of the gas kick. The inclusion of a downhole separator alters the annular ECD profile, creating a "broken line" shape, which enhances adaptability to the multi-pressure systems typically encountered in deepwater formation. By adjusting factors such as hollow sphere concentration, separator position, and separation efficiency, the annular ECD profile can be effectively customized. This study provides important theoretical insights and practical applications for utilizing dual-gradient drilling technology to address challenges in deepwater formation drilling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utilization and storage of CO2 emissions from oil production and consumption in the upstream oil industry will contribute to sustainable development. CO2 flooding is the key technology for the upstream oil industry to transition to sustainable development. However, there is a significant challenge in achieving high recovery and storage efficiency in unconventional reservoirs, particularly in underdeveloped countries. Numerous studies have indicated that the limited sweep range caused by premature gas channeling of CO2 is a crucial bottleneck that hinders the enhancement of recovery, storage efficiency and safety. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the research and technical advancements regarding the front sweep characteristics of CO2 during migration. It particularly focuses on the characteristics, applicable stages, and research progress of different technologies used for regulating CO2 flooding sweep. Finally, based on the current application status and development trends, the review offers insights into the future research direction for these technologies. It is concluded that the front migration characteristics of CO2 play a crucial role in determining the macroscopic sweep range. The focus of future research lies in achieving cross-scale correlation and information coupling of CO2 migration processes. Currently, the influence weight of permeability, injection speed, pressure and other parameters on the characteristics of 'fingering-gas channeling' is still not well clear. There is an urgent need to establish prediction model and early warning mechanism that considers multi-parameters and cross-scale gas channeling degrees, in order to create effective strategies for prevention and control. There are currently three technologies available for sweep regulation: flow field intervention, mobility reduction, and gas channeling plugging. To expand the sweep effectively, it is important to systematically integrate these technologies based on their regulation characteristics and applicable stages. This can be achieved by constructing an intelligent synergistic hierarchical segmented regulation technology known as 'flow field intervention þ mobility regulation þ channel plugging chemically'. This work is expected to provide valuable insights for achieving conformance control of CO2-EOR and safe storage of CO2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Orchids are well-known for their rich diversity of species as well as wide range habitats. Their floral structures are so unique in angiosperms that many of orchids are economically and culturally important in human society. Orchids pollination strategy and evolutionary trajectory are also fantastic human for centuries. Previously, OrchidBase was created not only for storage and management of orchid genomic and transcriptomic information including Apostasia shenzhenica, Dendrobium catenatum, Phalaenopsis equestris, and two species of Platanthera that belong to three different subfamilies of Orchidaceae, but explored orchid genetic sequences for their function. The OrchidBase offers an opportunity for the plant science community to compare orchid genomes and transcriptomes, and retrieve orchid sequences for further study. Description: Recently, three whole-genome sequences of the Epidendroideae species, Cymbidium sinense, C. ensifolium and C. goeringii, were sequenced de novo, assembled, and analyzed. In addition, the systemic transcriptomes of these three species have been established. We included these datasets to develop a new version of OrchidBase 6.0. Furthermore, four new analytical methods, namely regulation, updated transcriptome, advanced BLAST, and domain search, were developed for orchid genome analyses. Conclusion: OrchidBase 6.0 extended genetic information to that of eight orchid species and created new tools for an expanded community curation in response to the ever-increasing volume and complexity of data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Epilepsy, as a chronic noncommunicable disease with recurrent seizures, may be a marker of deterioration or alteration in other underlying neurological diseases. This study aimed to investigate the relationship of epilepsy with brain function, other common brain disorders, and their underlying mechanisms. Methods: The study was based on clinical diagnostic and test data from 426,527 participants in the UK Biobank, of whom 3,251 were diagnosed with epilepsy at baseline. Multiple linear and Cox regression models were used to explore the association between epilepsy, brain function, and other brain disorders. Results: This study demonstrated consistent deleterious effects of epilepsy on cognitive and motor function and mental health. The risk of neurological diseases and psychiatric disorders was significantly elevated in the epilepsy population during the 17-year follow-up period, according to the longitudinal analysis. We also identified several brain regions associated with epilepsy, including the pallidum, hippocampus, and precentral regions. Mediation analyses revealed mediating effects of peripheral markers and proteins (e.g., GGT, HDL, ACE2, and GDF15), suggesting that liver function and lipid metabolism may be involved in the development of other brain disorders in individuals with epilepsy. Conclusions: Our study provides robust evidence of the association between epilepsy and poor brain health, underscoring the importance of early intervention for epilepsy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on the evolutionary mechanism of social emotions, such as panic, anxiety, and depression, during the COVID-19 pandemic by using big data from the internet, including Twitter and GDELT, and by incorporating factors related to risk communication and risk response in risk governance. The main negative emotions experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic include panic, anxiety, and depression. These negative emotions primarily erupted on a large scale during the initial phase of the first wave of the epidemic, whereas the fluctuations in negative emotions during subsequent resurgences were significantly smaller. This paper explains the evolution of panic and depression through analytical frameworks based on threat perception and coping efficacy, as well as social pressure and social support. The fluctuations in negative emotions around the world exhibit both similarities and diversities, which are closely related to the diversity of pandemic response models and cultural characteristics across different regions. The findings of this study have important implications for emergency management and the guidance of social mentality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As drilling depth increases, the demand for a multi-layer wellbore structure grows. However, with the upper wellbore diameter fixed, reducing the casing-to-wellbore clearance becomes necessary to increase the number of casing strings. This poses a significant challenge to maintaining adequate casing-to-wellbore clearance. However, in actual drilling operations, the casing-to-wellbore clearance cannot be continuously reduced. Equivalent circulating density (ECD) during running casing becomes a critical factor to consider. When the casing-to-wellbore clearance is too small, excessive surge pressures can occur, increasing the risk of lost circulation. In this study, a surge pressure calculation model was developed for the casing running process to analyze the variation in ECD under 10,000 m well conditions in China. Focusing on key formations with narrow density windows, the effects of different casing-to-wellbore clearances on ECD were evaluated. The analysis determined that under the constraints of fracture pressure, the minimum allowable casing-to-wellbore clearance for this casing string is 27 mm. Subsequently, using response surface methodology, a fitting formula was derived to describe the relationship between the selected variables—drilling fluid density, casing running speed, and casing-to-wellbore clearance—and the ECD during casing operations. This provides a theoretical basis for the optimal matching of casing-to-wellbore clearance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Entoloma clypeatum, a kind of edible ectomycorrhizal fungus, can be usually symbiotic with Rosaceae fruit trees. Fruit trees have become an important part of China's agriculture. The present work focused on exploring how E. clypeatum affected symbiotic Rosaceae plants and establishing a symbiotic culture with Malus robusta, Pyrus betulifolia and Prunus armeniaca rootstocks. The results showed that E. clypeatum and three Rosaceae plants can generate cylindrical or clavate mycorrhizae. The inoculation treatment had different degrees of positive effects on the three plants. Relative to the non-inoculated group, biomass in symbiotic plants increased (32.8%–191.1%), and photosynthesis enhanced. In the level of plant endogenous hormones, the concentration of zeatin, auxin and gibberellin increased (45.45%–228.95%), and the concentration of abscisic acid decreased (35.99%–76.21%). In roots and leaves of plants, the activities of antioxidant enzymes increased (19.0%–249.8%), soluble sugar, soluble protein and free proline concentrations increased (24.9%–373.3%), and the concentration of malondialdehyde decreased (43.6%–79.1%). According to these findings, E. clypeatum stimulated the growth of M. robusta, P. betulifolia and P. armeniaca and improved stress tolerance and adaptability. Our study provides a basis for developing and applying E. clypeatum, facilitates fruit tree industry development and serves as a resource for studying ectomycorrhizal fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a crystalline material CuPMTT was synthesized via coordination self-assembly strategy. The surfaces of CuPMTT are densely populated with thiol groups that effectively capture Hg2+ ions, achieving an adsorption rate nearing 90% and a separation coefficient of 4.51 against Cu2+, thus outperforming conventional adsorbents and presenting a significant advancement in environmental protection chemistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To decrease domain shift in cross-domain person re-identification, existing methods generate pseudo labels for training models, however, the inherent distribution between source domain data and the hard quantization loss is ignored. Therefore, a cross-domain person re-identification method based on distribution consistency and multi-label collaborative learning is proposed. Firstly, a soft binary cross-entropy loss function is constructed to constrain the inter-sample relationship of cross-domain transformation, which can ensure the consistency of appearance features and sample distribution, and achieving feature cross-domain alignment. On this basis, in order to suppress the noise of hard pseudo labels, a multi-label collaborative learning network is constructed. The soft pseudo labels are generated by using the collaborative foreground features and global features to guide the network training, making the model adapt to the target domain. The experimental results show that the proposed method has better performance than that of recent representative methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dinoflagellate chromosomes are extraordinary, as their organization is independent of architectural nucleosomes unlike typical eukaryotes and shows a cholesteric liquid crystal state. 5-hydroxymethyluridine (5hmU) is present at unusually high levels and its function remains an enigma in dinoflagellates chromosomal DNA for several decades. Here, we demonstrate that 5hmU contents vary among different dinoflagellates and are generated through thymidine hydroxylation. Importantly, we identified the enzyme, which is a putative dinoflagellate TET/JBP homolog, catalyzing 5hmU production using both in vivo and in vitro biochemical assays. Based on the near-chromosomal level genome assembly of dinoflagellate Amphidinium carterae, we depicted a comprehensive 5hmU landscape and found that 5hmU loci are significantly enriched in repeat elements. Moreover, inhibition of 5hmU via dioxygenase inhibitor leads to transcriptional activation of 5hmU-marked transposable elements, implying that 5hmU appears to serve as an epigenetic mark for silencing transposon. Together, our results revealed the biogenesis, genome-wide landscape, and molecular function of dinoflagellate 5hmU, providing mechanistic insight into the function of this enigmatic DNA mark. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is a practically significant issue to refine and modify industrial Al-Si casting alloy to improve its properties. In the present study, a novel refiner Al-3Ti-4.35La alloy, prepared by a melt-reaction method, was used, combined with Sr to refine the as-cast A356 alloy. Their effects on the as-cast microstructures and mechanical properties of A356 alloy were investigated. The results indicate that the combined addition of Al-3Ti-4.35La intermediate alloy and Sr can improve the microstructure and enhance the mechanical properties of A356 alloy. After adding 0.3wt.% Al-3Ti-4.35La and 0.03wt.% Sr to the as-cast A356 alloy, the average grain size of a-Al decreases from 693.47 µm to 264.13 µm (a decrease of 61.91%), the secondary dendrite arm spacing (SDAS) is decreased by 47.8% from 32.09 µm to 16.75 µm, and the eutectic Si is transformed from an acicular structure to short rods and a granular structure. The ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and elongation (EL) of the as-cast A356 alloy modified by Al-3Ti-4.35La and Sr reach 216.3 MPa and 10.6%, which are enhanced by 29.54% and 134.66% compared with the unmodified alloy, respectively. The fracture mode is transformed from transgranular fracture to intergranular fracture, and the ductile toughness of the alloy is improved. After adding the Al-3Ti-4.35La and Sr, the undercooling for the nucleation of a-Al and eutectic Si increases, leading to an accelerated nucleation rate and an increased number of nuclei, which shortens the duration of the eutectic reaction and consequently inhibits grain growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To evaluate the clinical outcomes of sutureless aortic valve replacement (SUAVR) and transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Methods: We systematically searched the electronic database and the Clinical Trials Registry up to 31 February 2023. Random effects model risk ratio (RR) and mean differences (MD) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled for the clinical outcomes. Results: The included 16 studies using propensity-matched analysis consisted of 6516 patients, including 3258 patients in the SUAVR group and 3258 patients in the TAVI group. The SUAVR group had lower mortality than the TAVI group at 1-year [RR = 0.53, 95% CI (0.32, 0.87), I² = 49%, p = 0.01], 2-year [RR = 0.56, 95% CI (0.37, 0.82), I² = 51%, p = 0.03] and 5-year [RR = 0.56, 95% CI (0.46, 0.70), I² = 0%, p < 0.01]. The SUAVR group had a significantly lower rate of new permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) [RR = 0.74, 95% CI (0.55, 0.99), I² = 48%, p = 0.04], moderate-to-severe paravalvular leak (PVL) [RR = 0.18, 95% CI (0.11, 0.30), I² = 0%, p < 0.01], more-than-mild residual aortic regurgitation (AR) [RR = 0.27, 95% CI (0.14, 0.54), I² = 0%, p < 0.01]. In addition, the SUAVR group had a higher rate of new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF) [RR = 3.66, 95% CI (1.95, 6.89), I² = 84%, p < 0.01], major or life-threatening bleeding event [RR = 3.63, 95% CI (1.81, 7.28), I² = 83%, p < 0.01], and higher postoperative mean aortic gradient [MD = 1.91, 95% CI (0.73, 3.10), I² = 91%, p < 0.01] than the TAVI group. Conclusions: The early and mid-term clinical outcomes of SUAVR were superior compared to TAVI. Further studies should be conducted to highlight the specific subgroups of patients. that will benefit from each technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the strategic choices of enterprises regarding exploitative and exploratory innovation, drawing on the ambidextrous innovation theory and using a case analysis of Ningbo Cixing Co., Ltd in China (referred to as 'Cixing' for short). The study constructs an evolutionary game model to analyse these choices from a micro perspective. The results of the study suggest that when the costs and opportunity costs associated with exploitative innovation are lower, the growth rate of innovation benefit is higher, and enterprises are more likely to adopt an exploitative innovation strategy. On the other hand, when the costs associated with exploratory innovation are lower, the success rate of innovation is higher, and enterprises are more likely to adopt an exploratory innovation strategy. The study also reveals that enterprises alternate between exploitative and exploratory innovation modes in response to changes in the external environment. This dynamic evolution shows a regular and complementary pattern of quantitative and qualitative change that promotes innovation growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Studies have shown the positive impact of perceived social support on cognitive function among older adults in rural areas. However, existing studies often overlook the impact of different support sources. This study aimed to explore the relationship between the diverse sources of perceived social support and cognitive function. Methods: Participants were drawn from the Guizhou Rural Older Adults' Health Study (HSRO) in China. We included 791 participants who participated in a baseline survey in 2019 and a 3-year follow-up survey. Perceived social support was investigated from the six main sources (friend, relative, children, spouse, sibling, and neighbor). Hierarchical linear regression models were used to observe the effects of diverse sources of perceived social support and their combinations on cognitive function. Results: Cognitive function was positively associated with perceived support from children, friends, and neighbors. A positive association was found between cognitive function and increases in each additional source [ß = 0.75 (95%CI: 0.51, 0.98), p < 0.001]. Older adults who perceived support from both children and friends showed better cognitive function [ß = 2.53 (95%CI: 1.35, 3.72), p < 0.001]. The perception of support from spouse, siblings, and relatives did not show a statistically significant association with cognitive function among older adults in rural areas. Conclusion: This study found that the association between different sources of perceived social support and cognitive function was varied. This study provides scientific evidence that personalized support strategies may benefit in promoting cognitive health in rural older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intratumoral microbiota (IM) has emerged as a significant component of the previously thought sterile tumor microenvironment (TME), exerting diverse functions in tumorigenesis and immune modulation. This review outlines the historical background, classification, and diversity of IM, elucidating its pivotal roles in oncogenicity, cancer development, and progression, alongside its influence on anti-tumor immunity. The signaling pathways through which IM impacts tumorigenesis and immunity, including reactive oxygen species (ROS), β-catenin, stimulator of interferon genes (STING), and other pathways [NF-κB, Toll-like receptor (TLR), complement, RhoA/ROCK, PKR-like ER kinase (PERK)], are discussed comprehensively. Furthermore, we briefly introduce the clinical implications of IM, emphasizing its potential as a target for novel cancer therapies, diagnostic biomarkers, and prognostic indicators. Notably, microbe-based therapeutic strategies such as fecal microbiome transplantation (FMT), probiotics regulation, bacteriotherapy, bacteriophage therapy, and oncolytic virotherapy are highlighted. These strategies hold promise for enhancing the efficacy of current cancer treatments and warrant further exploration in clinical settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gastric cancer (GC) has a high morbidity and mortality rate, with peritoneal metastasis (PM) identified as the main site of metastasis. Our previous study found that FNDC1 has a higher frequency of mutations in patients with PM by high-throughput sequencing assay, suggesting that it may be associated with GC invasion and PM, however the specific mechanism remains unclear. Methods: First, the correlation between FNDC1 and PM and prognosis of GC was clarified by bioinformatics and clinicopathological analysis. Next, the effect of FNDC1 expression on the invasion and metastasis ability of GC was investigated in vivo and in vitro. Finally, the signaling pathways involved in the regulation of FNDC1 were explored. Results: FNDC1 was highly expressed in GC and was associated with PM and poor prognosis. FNDC1 was also associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in GC cells. Through in vivo and in vitro experiments, it was clarified that knockdown of FNDC1 could inhibit the proliferation, invasion, and migration of GC cells. In addition, it was elucidated that FNDC1 promotes EMT through the Wnt/b-catenin signaling pathway. Conclusion: FNDC1 may be associated with the invasion of GC and PM after surgery. FNDC1 was highly expressed in GC tissues and cell lines, while significantly associated with poor DFS and OS in GC patients. Both univariate and multivariate analyses suggested that the expression of FNDC1 was an independent factor for GC. Knockdown of FNDC1 also significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, and activity of GC cells. FNDC1 may promote EMT in GC cells through the regulation of Wnt/b-catenin signaling pathway. FNDC1 has the potential to be used as a predictor of PM and may also be studied in depth as a therapeutic target for GC, which has potential clinical utility and is worthy of further validation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel and environment-friendly synthetic process for the nematicidal and fungicidal fluopyram (1) has been developed. In the previous methods, the synthesis of the key intermediate 2-(3-chloro-5-(trifluoromethyl) pyridin-2-yl)ethanamine (2) is a main challenge due to the long synthesis routes, complicated process, difficulty in purification, and low yield. In this study, a carbamate is used as the starting material to synthesize this intermediate 2, which innovatively simplify the synthetic route, avoid dangerous hydrogenation processes and expensive catalysts, and thereby reduced the risks and costs in industry. Additionally, the intermediate 2 is obtained in a form of hydrochloride salt, which greatly facilitates the purification and provides a convenient synthesis route for fluopyram (1). Furthermore, the reactants in this process can be recycled and reused, to minimize wastes and adhere to the principles of green chemistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reproductive mode of morels (Morchella spp.) is governed by mating type genes, specifically MAT1-1 and MAT1-2. This study investigated the presence of mating type genes at various growth stages and in different parts of cultivated Morchella sextelata. This study revealed significant fluctuations in the detection ratio of the two mating type genes during ascocarps growth. Single ascospore strains with MAT1-1, MAT1-2 and both mating types were selected for experimentations. Stress stimuli including H2O2, Congo red and NaCl were introduced into the medium. Differences in the cultural and physiological characteristics of single spore strains were analyzed, and mating type genes were identified after subculturing to assess their stability. The results indicated that a total of 297 samples with a single mating type gene were detected in 480 samples selected from the five stages of fruiting body growth, accounting for 61.9%. Stress exposure influenced colony morphology, mycelial growth rate, and biomass, leading to significant increases in malondialdehyde content and osmotic adjustment compounds, including soluble protein and proline. Physiological and biochemical parameters varied among the three mating type strains under different stress conditions. Principal component analysis was used to calculate the weight values, which showed that the MAT1-2 strain exhibited the highest tolerance to chemical stresses, particularly oxidative stress. Subculturing under stress revealed that single mating type strains ceased growth by the 8th generation, whereas both mating type strains could continue to the 15th generation without loss of mating type genes, indicating broader environmental adaptability and higher viability. These findings offer novel insights into mating type gene function and serve as a scientific foundation for the development of high-yield, stress-resistant morel varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reproductive mode of morels (Morchella spp.) is governed by mating type genes, specifically MAT1-1 and MAT1-2. This study investigated the presence of mating type genes at various growth stages and in different parts of cultivated Morchella sextelata. This study revealed significant fluctuations in the detection ratio of the two mating type genes during ascocarps growth. Single ascospore strains with MAT1-1, MAT1-2 and both mating types were selected for experimentations. Stress stimuli including H2O2, Congo red and NaCl were introduced into the medium. Differences in the cultural and physiological characteristics of single spore strains were analyzed, and mating type genes were identified after subculturing to assess their stability. The results indicated that a total of 297 samples with a single mating type gene were detected in 480 samples selected from the five stages of fruiting body growth, accounting for 61.9%. Stress exposure influenced colony morphology, mycelial growth rate, and biomass, leading to significant increases in malondialdehyde content and osmotic adjustment compounds, including soluble protein and proline. Physiological and biochemical parameters varied among the three mating type strains under different stress conditions. Principal component analysis was used to calculate the weight values, which showed that the MAT1-2 strain exhibited the highest tolerance to chemical stresses, particularly oxidative stress. Subculturing under stress revealed that single mating type strains ceased growth by the 8th generation, whereas both mating type strains could continue to the 15th generation without loss of mating type genes, indicating broader environmental adaptability and higher viability. These findings offer novel insights into mating type gene function and serve as a scientific foundation for the development of high-yield, stress-resistant morel varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sulfate process for bamboo pulp production encounters silicon interference during the pulping stage, necessitating desilication before the alkali recovery section. This study investigated the desilication of bamboo pulping black liquor (BPBL), demonstrating that silicon was removed effectively by adding Mg/Al compound desilication agent to the BPBL via burning at high temperature. The desilication extent can reach 84% when the desilication agent is added in the proportion of Mg/Al (magnesium sulfate and sodium metaluminate) in the ratio 1.25:0.75. Subsequently, less-silicon white mud (LSWM) can be prepared after black liquor (BL) combustion desilication. LSWM was compared with normal WM as a blank sample, and the morphology and physicochemical properties of two kinds of WM were characterized. X-ray diffractometry revealed that both types of WM are primarily composed of calcite crystalline CaCO3 and hydrated CaSiO3. Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and particle size analysis demonstrated the reduced content of CaSiO3 generated in the LSWM. This result indicated that the Mg/Al compound desilication agent removed the silicon from the green liquor (GL), thereby reducing the residual silicon in WM. This reduction is beneficial to the calcination recovery and comprehensive utilization of WM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because of changing consumer habits, manufacturing processes are shifting from mass production to small-batch production, which is making machining more complex and increasing demands for precision and stability. Machine tools, and thus machining accuracy, are affected by factors such as temperature and cutting load. Existing online estimation techniques often require the installation of additional sensors at specific locations, an approach that has cost and reliability issues, thus limiting industry's acceptance of these techniques. In practice, most manufacturers rely on offline detection methods, meaning that machining accuracy deviations can take some time to detect. In this study, we developed a technology for monitoring the status of machine tools; this technology, rather than requiring the installation of sensors, uses servo sensor signals to estimate accuracy, diagnose faults, and make recommendations regarding cutting depth parameters. The proposed method leverages a small number of experiments combined with extensive finite element analysis to construct a big data database, followed by the sensitivity and regression analyses of the generated database to produce an estimation model that evaluates machine tool conditions through servo feedback. The results showed that using linear regression to estimate the machine tool's status achieves good accuracy and that linear regression is easier to implement for real-time compensation. Ultimately, these results can enhance production efficiency and machining accuracy, as well as prevent unforeseen breakdowns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Moiré structures formed by twisting three layers of graphene with two independent twist angles present an ideal platform for studying correlated quantum phenomena, as an infinite set of angle pairs is predicted to exhibit flat bands. Moreover, the two mutually incommensurate moiré patterns among the twisted trilayer graphene (TTG) can form highly tunable moiré quasicrystals. This enables us to extend correlated physics in periodic moiré crystals to quasiperiodic systems. However, direct local characterization of the structure of the moiré quasicrystals and of the resulting flat bands are still lacking, which is crucial to fundamental understanding and control of the correlated moiré physics. Here, we demonstrate the existence of flat bands in a series of TTGs with various twist angle pairs and show that the TTGs with different magic angle pairs are strikingly dissimilar in their atomic and electronic structures. The lattice relaxation and the interference between moiré patterns are highly dependent on the twist angles. Our direct spatial mappings, supported by theoretical calculations, reveal that the localization of the flat bands exhibits distinct symmetries in different regions of the moiré quasicrystals. Twisted trilayer graphene is predicted to exhibit flat bands for an infinite set of twist angle pairs between the subsequent layers. Here, the authors study several samples with different twist angles and evidence robust flat bands in each of them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Teduglutide, the first glucagon-like peptide 2 analogue, has been demonstrated to facilitate the absorption of gut nutrient and lessen the need for parenteral assistance in patients with Short Bowel Syndrome (SBS). However, its adverse drug events (AEs) are primarily documented in clinical trials, with a deficit in real-world data. This study evaluates the AEs profile of teduglutide based on Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) data. Method: A disproportionality analysis of FAERS data from Quarter 1 (Q1) 2013 to Quarter 3 (Q3) 2023 was conducted to examine the association between teduglutide and adverse events, employing Reporting Odds Ratio (ROR), Proportional Reporting Ratio (PRR), Bayesian Confidence Propagation Neural Network (BCPNN), and Empirical Bayesian Geometric Mean (EBGM) methods. Results: Out of 13,809,302 reports in the FAERS database, 10,114 reports identified teduglutide as the "primary suspect" in AEs identification. During the dosing observation period, the median occurrence of adverse events was 393 days (interquartile range [IQR] 97-996 days). Teduglutide-associated AEs occurred in 27 System Organ Classes (SOC), of which renal and urinary disorders is not mentioned in the specification. Based on the four algorithms, a total of 260 major disproportionality preferred terms (PTs) were filtered out, including previously unreported AEs including weight decreased (n = 805), vascular device infection (n = 683), dehydration (n = 596) and nephrolithiasis (n = 146). Conclusion: Our findings corroborate the AEs listed in the teduglutide prescribing information and additionally unveil new adverse reaction signals such as nephrolithiasis. These discoveries could aid in clinical monitoring and risk identification for teduglutide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incidence of colorectal cancer is relatively high in our country, with the majority of patients being diagnosed at an advanced stage. For individuals with advanced-stage colorectal cancer, conversion or neoadjuvant therapy is frequently necessitated to facilitate surgical intervention and achieve a curative effect. And about 10% to 30% of colon cancer patients are complicated with intestinal obstruction. Surgical intervention remains the primary treatment for managing intestinal obstructions, albeit with a considerable risk of perioperative mortality and an increased likelihood of postoperative complications. PDT, as a neoadjuvant treatment for colon cancer, can shrink the local tumor and relieve obstruction, and is effective in colon cancer combined with obstruction. Robotic surgery has the advantages of high stability and low trauma, and compared with laparoscopic colon cancer surgery, robotic surgery can achieve better results. Fluorescent laparoscopic clarifies the location and size of the tumor lesion, allowing for greater precision when removing colon cancer lesions in robotic surgery. Therefore, in the treatment of colon cancer, PDT can offer an opportunity for surgery after relieving obstruction in patients with obstructive colon cancer. Additionally, when combined with fluorescent laparoscopic robotic colon cancer surgery, it provides a novel treatment approach for patients with obstructive colon cancer. Preoperative photodynamic neoadjuvant therapy combined with robotic colon cancer surgery has not yet been reported. Here, we report a case of colon cancer with obstruction, preoperative TNM stage was T4N1, and the lesion had caused intestinal stenosis. After four sessions of PDT, the patient's intestinal lumen was unobstructed and the lesion had regressed. After evaluation, fluorescent laparoscopic localization and visualization of lymph nodes combined with robotic colon cancer resection were performed. Postoperative pathology showed that the patient's tumor regression grade was grade 1. The patient's tumor was completely resected with good resection effect. No tumor invasion was found on both sides of the resection margin, and the patient did not relapse after surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bridging integrator 1 (BIN1) gene polymorphism has been reported to play a role in the pathological processes of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Objective: To explore the association of BIN1 loci with neuroinflammation and AD pathology. Methods: Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI, N = 495) was the discovery cohort, and Chinese Alzheimer's Biomarker and LifestylE (CABLE, N = 619) study was used to replicate the results. Two BIN1 gene polymorphism (rs7561528 and rs744373) were included in the analysis. Multiple linear regression model and causal mediation analysis conducted through 10,000 bootstrapped iterations were used to examine the BIN1 loci relationship with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) AD biomarkers and alternative biomarker of microglial activation microglia-soluble triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (sTREM2). Results: In ADNI database, we found a significant association between BIN1 loci (rs7561528 and rs744373) and levels of CSF phosphorylated-tau (P-tau) (pc = 0.017; 0.010, respectively) and total-tau (T-tau) (pc = 0.011; 0.013, respectively). The BIN1 loci were also correlated with CSF sTREM2 levels (pc = 0.010; 0.008, respectively). Mediation analysis demonstrated that CSF sTREM2 partially mediated the association of BIN1 loci with P-tau (Proportion of rs7561528 : 20.8%; Proportion of rs744373 : 24.8%) and T-tau (Proportion of rs7561528 : 36.5%; Proportion of rs744373 : 43.9%). The analysis in CABLE study replicated the mediation role of rs7561528. Conclusions: This study demonstrated the correlation between BIN1 loci and CSF AD biomarkers as well as microglia biomarkers. Additionally, the link between BIN1 loci and tau pathology was partially mediated by CSF sTREM2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Citrus fruit is rich in important functional constituents such as flavonoids, phenolic acids terpenes and other functional substances that play an important role for treating clinical diseases or controlling major agricultural diseases and pests. Plant secondary metabolites have become one of the most important resources of novel lead compounds, especially young citrus fruits contain multiple functional substances. 'Orah', a type of citrus reticulata, is known for its fine appearance, productivity, delicious sweetness, late-maturing characteristics, and is widely cultivated in China. Fruit thinning and rootstock selection are commonly used agronomic measures in its production to ensure its quality and tree vigor. However, few studies have demonstrated the effects of these agronomic measures on the functional substances of 'Orah'. Methods: In this study, we used HPLC coupled with UV to detect the dynamic changes of fruit quality, 13 main flavonoids, 7 phenolic acids, 2 terpenes, synephrine and antioxidant capacity in both peel and pulp of citrus fruits grafted on four rootstocks (Red orange Citrus reticulata Blanco cv. red tangerine, Ziyang xiangcheng Citrus junos Sieb. ex Tanaka, Trifoliate orange Poncirus trifoliata L. Raf, and Carrizo citrange Citrus sinensis Osb.×P.trifoliate Raf) at six different developmental stages (from 90 DAF to 240 DAF). Results: The results indicated that rootstock can significantly affect the contents of functional constituents and antioxidant capacity in 'Orah'. Additionally, it was found that pruning at either 90 DAF (days after flowering) or 150 DAF produced the most favorable outcomes for extracting functional substances. We also identified rootstock 'Trifoliate orange' has the highest total soluble solids (TSS) and 'Ziyang xiangcheng' to be the optimal in terms of comprehensive sensory of fruit quality, while 'Red orange' and 'Ziyang xiangcheng' are optimal in terms of functional substance quality, and 'Red orange' excels in antioxidant capacity. Discussion: Overall, the findings demonstrate the important role of rootstocks and developmental stage in shaping fruit sensory quality and functional substance synthesis, providing valuable insights for guiding rootstock selection, determining thinning time, and utilizing pruned fruits in a more informed manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]