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The Mn3AgN-based manganese nitrides have attracted continuous attention due to the interesting functional properties, which is closely correlated with the magnetic evolution coupling with structural and electrical order. However, the attention on the fundamental magnetic behavior of the Mn3AgN matrix is still insufficient up to now. Here, the magnetic properties of Mn3AgN have been investigated by comprehensive magnetic measurements including dc magnetization, ac susceptibility, and magnetic relaxation. The results show that Mn3AgN undergoes two magnetic transitions with decreasing temperature: the transition from paramagnetic to antiferromagnetic (AFM) state at ∼285 K and from AFM to spin-glass-like (SGL) state at ∼110 K. The SGL state is essentially a mixed magnetic state of weak short-range ferromagnetic order and spin glass, and its appearance should be related to the AFM configuration of Γ4g with ferromagnetic component. The unique low-temperature magnetic structure of Mn3AgN makes it exhibit interesting low temperatures magnetic behavior, such as the magnetic irreversibility phenomenon, magnetic relaxation behavior, and so on. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The observation of high-Tc superconductivity (HTSC) in concomitant with pressure-induced orthorhombic-tetragonal structural transition in bilayer La3Ni2O7 has sparked hopes of achieving HTSC by stabilizing the tetragonal phase at ambient pressure. Chemical pressure, introduced by replacing La3+ with smaller rare-earth R3+ has been considered as a potential route. However, our experimental and theoretical investigation reveals that such substitutions, despite causing lattice contraction, actually produce stronger orthorhombic distortions, requiring higher pressures for the structural transition. A linear extrapolation of Pc versus the average size of A-site cations (A>), yields a putative critical value of A>c ≈ 1.23 Å for Pc ≈ 1 bar. The negative correlation between Pc and A> indicates that replacing La3+ with smaller R3+ ions is unlikely to reduce Pc to ambient pressure. Instead, substituting La3+ with larger cations like Sr2+ or Ba2+ might be a feasible approach. Our results provide guidance for realizing ambient-pressure HTSC in bilayer nickelates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Using a rat model, we investigated the effect of multidisciplinary rehabilitation, including aerobic training and ointment, on the ROM, vWF, VEGF content, and femoral artery hemodynamics in rats with joint contracture. Methods: A total of 44 Wistar rats were divided into the normal control group (NC, eight rats) and the experimental group (EG). A joint contracture model was established for the rats in the EG group by an external fixator. After fixator removal, 32 rats are further divided into the MC, SC, RE, and SR groups (n = 8). Before and after the 42 day intervention, the ROM, vWF, VEGF, PS, ED, and RI were measured using X-ray imaging, ELISA, and color Doppler ultrasound, respectively. Results: After fixator removal, ROM for EG group was lower than that of the NC group (p <.01). After the intervention, ROM for the SR, RE, and SC groups was improved. The ROM for the SR group reached a similar value for NC group. vWF and VEGF levels in SR group were lower than in the MC, SC, and RE groups (p <.05), and had a similar value to the NC groups. PS value for SR and RE groups was higher than the MC and SC groups. The RI value for SR group was higher than that of NC and MC groups. Conclusion: Multidisciplinary rehabilitation used in this study can treat joint contracture synergistically. It improves the ROM of the joint, reduces the content of vWF and VEGF, and improves the femoral artery hemodynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A method for efficient synthesis of quinolines via acceptorless dehydrogenative condensation is presented. A series of quinolines are obtained by the coupling reaction of 2‐aminobenzyl alcohols with secondary alcohols in the presence of bidentate terpyridine Mn(I) complex in good to excellent yields. Pleasantly, various substituted secondary alcohols and substituted aminobenzyl alcohols all provide quinolines with good functional group tolerance. Importantly, this investigation also provides a green and environmentally friendly protocol for constructing heterocyclic compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spin–orbit torque (SOT) switching of the L10-FePt single layer has attracted a lot of interest in recent times. Herein, we report the tunability of switching performance in L10-FePt films by Mn doping. The results show that field-free switching can be realized by Mn doping, and the switching performance exhibits an angular dependence with respect to the crystal axis. Such switching behavior can be attributed to cone anisotropy induced by Mn doping. In addition, the SOT efficiency can be enhanced by Mn doping. These results can deepen our understanding of the SOT-induced switching of L10-FePt films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) is a crucial vegetable crop, requiring significant nitrogen fertilizer inputs. However, excessive nitrogen application not only impairs growth but also poses severe environmental risks. Thus, enhancing nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) in cucumber is imperative. For the identification of genes associated with NUE in cucumber, roots of high NUE and low NUE lines were analyzed under high nitrogen conditions. Using transcriptome sequencing through WGCNA, a total of 15,180 genes were categorized into 35 co-expression modules, with 5 modules being highly correlated with NUE. Based on differential expression within the five modules and the results of GO and KEGG enrichment analyses, 25 genes were identified as potentially related to NUE. Among these, CsaV4_1G002492 (GLR22), CsaV4_2G003460 (GLR35), CsaV4_3G000307 (NRT1.1), and CsaV4_7G001709 (UPS2) were homologous to genes in Arabidopsis known to directly participate in NUE related process. These four genes were chosen as key genes for further analysis. qRT-PCR analysis revealed that CsaV4_3G000307 and CsaV4_7G001709 were more active during the early stages of the high nitrogen treatment in the high NUE line. Conversely, CsaV4_1G002492 and CsaV4_2G003460 were more active in the low NUE line. Using transcriptomic analysis, a frameshift INDEL mutation was observed in CsaV4_3G000307 in the low NUE line, which impacted the compactness of the protein structure, potentially altering its function. Analysis of protein interactions of these four key genes predicted some potential interaction networks. This research offers critical insights into the genetic factors influencing NUE in cucumber, presenting potential targets for genetic modification or breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of diabetes is escalating alarmingly, placing a significant economic burden on the global healthcare system. The use of chemical substances extracted from plants has been demonstrated to be an effective method for the treatment and control of insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). New research indicates that natural phytochemicals present in fruits and vegetables are expected to become drugs for the treatment of diabetes and the prevention of related complications. Quercetin, a widely distributed flavonoid, is well‐known for its antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, anticancer, and antidiabetic properties. This article provides a comprehensive account of the mechanism of action of quercetin on diabetes and obesity complications in vivo and in vitro. It elucidates the impact of quercetin on various cells. These include hepatocytes, renal cells, skeletal muscle cells, and adipocytes. Furthermore, this article discusses the mechanism of quercetin on organ damage in diabetic mice induced by STZ, alloxan, diet, and spontaneous Type 2 diabetic mice caused by genetic defects. Additionally, it addresses the pharmacokinetics of quercetin and its potential for synergistic effects with existing diabetic drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to improve the monitoring effect of electronic communication power supply, this paper applies the intelligent communication signal processing method to the monitoring system, and deeply analyzes the basic principle of OTA. Moreover, from the perspective of improving linearity, a signal attenuation OTA is designed in this paper, and its linearity has been greatly improved. In addition, this paper designs a cross‐coupled POTA that can not only ensure high linearity but also achieve tunable translinearity. The tunable POTA circuit has simple structure, wide linear input range, tunable translinearity and easy implementation, and can meet its performance requirements in FPAA arrays. Through data analysis, it can be seen that the intelligent‐oriented electronic communication power monitoring system proposed in this paper has a good data monitoring effect. This study provides an effective approach for the development of electronic communication power monitoring technology, improves the signal processing efficiency of electronic communication power monitoring, and also provides some reference for the improvement of signal strength in electronic communication technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infections caused by drug-resistant strains are one of the biggest challenges facing public health. In order to solve this problem, in this paper, tellurium nanoreagents with chiral shapes were prepared by a green method using glutathione as a reducing agent and chiral inducer and fructose as a capping agent and chiral auxiliary. Then, the butterfly-like FTe NPs are bonded with Chlorin e6 to fabricate a nanosystem (FTe-Ce6 NPs) for combating drug-resistant bacterial infection. The proposed FTe-Ce6 not only preserves the high photothermal conversion efficiency of FTe (78.3%) but also improves the stability of Ce6 and promotes the production of ROS. With the aid of NIR irradiation, FTe-Ce6 can eradicate planktonic Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus , especially methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in vitro. Synergistic photothermal therapy (PTT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) exhibit broad-spectrum germicidal efficacy. In an in vivo model of MRSA infection, FTe-Ce6 showed high activity in eliminating infection, reducing inflammation, and promoting tissue recovery. This tellurium nanomaterial can be used as an antibiotic-free antimicrobial agent for the treatment of drug-resistant bacterial infections and has potential clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alphaviruses are important arthropod-transmitted pathogens of humans and livestock. Getah virus (GETV) is an arthritogenic alphavirus that causes disease in horses and piglets; it also poses a potential threat to humans. A live attenuated vaccine candidate named GETV-3ΔS2-CM1, harbouring a deletion in nonstructural protein 3 and substitutions in the capsid protein, is genetically stable and exhibits robust immunogenicity. It was shown to confer passive protection to piglets born to immunized sows. In mice, a single dose of GETV-3ΔS2-CM1 protected against infection with different strains of GETV, Semliki Forest virus, Ross River virus, o'nyong'nyong virus, chikungunya virus, and Barmah Forest virus. Chimaeras based on the GETV-3ΔS2-CM1 backbone maintained both the attenuated phenotype and high immunogenicity. The safety, efficacy, and ability to induce protection against multiple alphaviruses highlights the potential of GETV-3ΔS2-CM1 and chimaeras using this backbone as promising vaccine candidates. By contributing simultaneously to the wellbeing of animals and humans, our universal next generation vaccine strategy helps to achieve "One Health" goals. Author summary: GETV is a zoonotic mosquito transmitted alphavirus. It is causing infections of livestock and has a potential to harm humans. In the present study, we developed an attenuated variant of GETV. Immunization with this vaccine candidate results in antibody response that protects mice, pigs, and the progeny of immunized mothers against challenge with high dose of GETV. Importantly, the immunization also protects against the challenge with other arthritogenic alphaviruses. Furthermore, we demonstrate that attenuated GETV backbone can be used for construction of chimeric alphaviruses that represent promising vaccine candidates. This study highlights the applicability of attenuated GETV for the prevention and control of multiple arthritogenic alphaviruses in animals under the "One Health" principle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several heart rate variability (HRV) parameters were reported to be associated with residual renal function (RRF) in patients undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). However, it is unclear whether using HRV or other autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity indexes can predict RRF decline in CAPD patients. Methods: Patients undergoing CAPD in 2022 from the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University were enrolled in this study. Their clinical characteristics, 5-min HRV parameters and average voltage of 5-min skin sympathetic nerve activity (aSKNA) were collected. According to the 12-month glomerular filtration rate (GFR) decline rate compared with the upper quartile, these patients were categorized into two groups: RRF decline (RRF-D) group and RRF stable (RRF-S) group. Clinical factors and ANS activity indexes for predicting 1-year RRF decline were analyzed using logistic regression, and a nomogram model was further established. The relationships between volume load related indexes and aSKNA were displayed by Spearman's correlation graphs. Results: Ninety-eight patients (53 women, average age of 46.7 ± 13.0 years old) with a median dialysis vintage of 24.5 months were enrolled in this study. Seventy-three patients were categorized into the RRF-S group and 25 patients into the RRF-D group. Compared with RRF-S group, patients in the RRF-D group had higher systolic blood pressure (BP; p = 0.019), higher GFR (p = 0.016), higher serum phosphorous level (p = 0.030), lower total Kt/V (p = 0.001), and lower levels of hemoglobin (p = 0.007) and albumin (p = 0.010). The RRF-D group generally exhibited lower HRV parameters and aSKNA compared with the RRF-S group. A nomogram model included clinical factors (sex, systolic BP, hemoglobin, GFR, and total Kt/V) and aSKNA showed the largest AUC of 0.940 (95% CI: 0.890–0.990) for predicting 1-year RRF decline. Conclusion: The nomogram model included clinical factors (sex, systolic BP, hemoglobin, GFR and total Kt/V) and ANS activity index (aSKNA) might be a promising tool for predicting 1-year RRF decline in CAPD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Endoscopy is important for the diagnosis and treatment of acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding (AUGIB), especially acute variceal bleeding (AVB), in liver cirrhosis. However, the optimal timing of endoscopy remains controversial, primarily because the currently available evidence is of poor quality, and the definition of early endoscopy is also very heterogeneous among studies. Herein, a multicenter randomized controlled trial (RCT) is performed to explore the impact of the timing of endoscopy on the outcomes of cirrhotic patients with AVB. Methods: A total of 368 cirrhotic patients presenting with AUGIB who are highly suspected to be from AVB will be enrolled. They will be stratified according to the severity of liver function and clinical presentation at admission and then randomly assigned at a 1:1 ratio into early (within 12 h after admission) and delayed (within 12–24 h after admission) endoscopy groups within each stratum. The primary outcomes include the rates of 5-day failure to control bleeding after admission and 6-week rebleeding. The secondary outcomes include 6-week mortality and incidence of adverse events. Conclusion: Considering existing evidence originates from non-randomized studies, this RCT will provide high-quality evidence to uncover whether cirrhotic patients with AVB should undergo early endoscopy to control bleeding and improve survival. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT06031402. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Loss of Lon1 led to stunted plant growth and accumulation of nuclear‐encoded mitochondrial proteins including Lon1 substrates. However, an in‐depth label‐free proteomics quantification of mitochondrial proteins in lon1 revealed that the majority of mitochondrial‐encoded proteins decreased in abundance. Additionally, we found that lon1 mutants contained protein aggregates in the mitochondrial that were enriched in metabolic enzymes, ribosomal subunits and PPR‐containing proteins of the translation apparatus. These mutants exhibited reduced general mitochondrial translation as well as deficiencies in RNA splicing and editing. These findings support the role of Lon1 in maintaining a functional translational apparatus for mitochondrial‐encoded gene translation. Transcriptome analysis of lon1 revealed a mitochondrial unfolded protein response reminiscent of the mitochondrial retrograde signalling dependent on the transcription factor ANAC017. Notably, lon1 mutants exhibited transiently elevated ethylene production, and the shortened hypocotyl observed in lon1 mutants during skotomorphogenesis was partially alleviated by ethylene inhibitors. Furthermore, the short root phenotype was partially ameliorated by introducing a mutation in the ethylene receptor ETR1. Interestingly, the upregulation of only a select few target genes was linked to ETR1‐mediated ethylene signalling. Together this provides multiple steps in the link between loss of Lon1 and signalling responses to restore mitochondrial protein homoeostasis in plants. Summary statement: Plant Lon1 prevents the aggregation of mitochondrial proteins, including metabolic enzymes and components of the translational apparatus such as ribosomal and PPR proteins. Dysfunctional proteins within these aggregates inhibit the translation of mitochondrial‐encoded genes and trigger unfolded protein responses associated with ANAC017. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endo-1,4-β-xylanase is a key xylanolytic enzyme, and our study aimed to enhance the catalytic properties of Alteromones Macleadii xylanase (Xyn ZT-2) through sequence-guided design approach. Analysis of the amino acid sequence revealed highly conserved residues near the active site, with few differences. Introducing various mutations allowed us to modify the enzyme's catalytic performance. Particularly, the A152G mutation led to a 9.8-fold increase in activity and a 23.2-fold increase in catalytic efficiency. Moreover, A152G exhibited an optimal temperature of 65 °C, 20 °C higher than that of Xyn ZT-2, while the T287S mutant showed a 4.9-fold increase in half-life. These results underscore the role of amino acid evolution in shaping xylanase catalysis. Through targeted sequence analysis and a focused mutation library, we effectively improved catalytic performance, providing a straightforward approach for enhancing enzyme efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent advancements in natural language processing (NLP) have been significantly driven by the development of large language models (LLMs). Despite their impressive performance across various language tasks, these models still encounter challenges when processing tabular data. This study investigates the optimization of fine-tuning strategies for LLMs specifically in the context of tabular data processing. The focus is on the effects of decimal truncation, multi-dataset mixing, and the ordering of JSON key–value pairs on model performance. Experimental results indicate that decimal truncation reduces data noise, thereby enhancing the model's learning efficiency. Additionally, multi-dataset mixing improves the model's generalization and stability, while the random shuffling of key–value pair orders increases the model's adaptability to changes in data structure. These findings underscore the significant impact of these strategies on model performance and robustness. The research provides novel insights into improving the practical effectiveness of LLMs and offers effective data processing methods for researchers in related fields. By thoroughly analyzing these strategies, this study aims to establish theoretical foundations and practical guidance for the future optimization of LLMs across a broader range of application scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional uncertain mechanical systems tracking control design guaranteeing prescribed performance is generally based on state transformations that bring high computational complexity, and cannot deal with nonholonomic reference trajectory. This paper proposes a transformation-free approach for robust tracking control design of uncertain mechanical systems to simultaneously achieve the following goals: (1) rendering the system to approximately track nonholonomic reference trajectory; (2) guaranteeing prescribed transient and steady-state tracking performance (PTSSP); (3) countering (possibly fast) time-variant and bounded uncertainty. Firstly, we synthesize control structure with designed parameters that renders the tracking error uniform boundedness and uniform ultimate boundedness. Secondly, we propose selection rules for designed control parameters by the meticulous analysis of error-based Lyapunov function and uncertainty bound to satisfy required prescribed performance. The design approach is transformation-free, approximation-free and does not invoke any auxiliary variables, hence is low-complexity and more easy-to-use comparing with the popular transformation-based prescribed performance control. Furthermore, to the best of our knowledge, it is the first that guarantees PTSSP in nonholonomic trajectory-tracking control of uncertain mechanical systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We build a multi-period pricing model between a blockchain-technology-supported platform and a traditional platform, where the blockchain-technology-supported platform provides a higher value for customers. Customers are influenced by network effect, that is, they value a platform more if the platform has more users. As either platform can adopt static pricing or dynamic pricing, four scenarios may occur. By deriving the equilibrium of each scenario, we reveal the 'Matthew effect' caused by network effect, that platform advantage (from adopting blockchain technology) or disadvantage (from not adopting blockchain technology) accumulates as time goes by. Thus, platforms are advised to adopt the blockchain technology antecedent to the competitors. Network effect, which amplifies the benefit of initial users, may intensify price competition and harm both platforms. By comparing the four scenarios, we derive the equilibrium pricing strategies: when network effect is weak, one platform adopts static pricing and the other adopts dynamic pricing; when network effect is medium, the blockchain-technology-supported platform adopts static pricing and the traditional platform adopts dynamic pricing; and when network effect is strong, both platforms adopt dynamic pricing. Dynamic pricing is more desirable for the traditional platform relative to the blockchain-technology-supported platform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Ruddlesden–Popper (R–P) bilayer nickelate, La3Ni2O7, was recently found to show signatures of high-temperature superconductivity (HTSC) at pressures above 14 GPa (ref. 1). Subsequent investigations achieved zero resistance in single-crystalline and polycrystalline samples under hydrostatic pressure conditions2–4. Yet, obvious diamagnetic signals, the other hallmark of superconductors, are still lacking owing to the filamentary nature with low superconducting volume fraction2,4,5. The presence of a new 1313 polymorph and competing R–P phases obscured proper identification of the phase for HTSC6–9. Thus, achieving bulk HTSC and identifying the phase at play are the most prominent tasks. Here we address these issues in the praseodymium (Pr)-doped La2PrNi2O7 polycrystalline samples. We find that substitutions of Pr for La effectively inhibit the intergrowth of different R–P phases, resulting in a nearly pure bilayer structure. For La2PrNi2O7, pressure-induced orthorhombic to tetragonal structural transition takes place at Pc ≈ 11 GPa, above which HTSC emerges gradually on further compression. The superconducting transition temperatures at 18–20 GPa reach T c onset = 82.5 K and T c zero = 60 K , which are the highest values, to our knowledge, among known nickelate superconductors. Importantly, bulk HTSC was testified by detecting clear diamagnetic signals below about 75 K with appreciable superconducting shielding volume fractions at a pressure of above 15 GPa. Our results not only resolve the existing controversies but also provide directions for exploring bulk HTSC in the bilayer nickelates.Bulk high-temperature superconductivity observed in pressurized tetragonal La2PrNi2O7 was testified by detecting clear diamagnetic signals below about 75 K with appreciable superconducting shielding volume fractions at a pressure of above 15 GPa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Radiation-induced skin injury is a significant adverse reaction to radiotherapy. However, there is a lack of effective prevention and treatment methods for this complication. Ferulic acid (FA) has been identified as an effective anti-radiation agent. Conventional administrations of FA limit the reaching of it on skin. We aimed to develop a novel FA hydrogel to facilitate the use of FA in radiation-induced skin injury. Methods: We cross-linked carbomer 940, a commonly used adjuvant, with FA at concentrations of 5%, 10%, and 15%. Sweep source optical coherence tomography system, a novel skin structure evaluation method, was applied to investigate the influence of FA on radiation-induced skin injury. Calcein-AM/PI staining, CCK8 assay, hemolysis test and scratch test were performed to investigate the biocompatibility of FA hydrogel. The reducibility of DPPH and ABTS radicals by FA hydrogel was also performed. HE staining, Masson staining, laser Doppler blood flow monitor, and OCT imaging system are used to evaluate the degree of skin tissue damage. Potential differentially expressed genes were screened via transcriptome analysis. Results: Good biocompatibility and in vitro antioxidant ability of the FA hydrogels were observed. 10% FA hydrogel presented a better mechanical stability than 5% and 15% FA hydrogel. All three concentrations of FA remarkably promoted the recovery of radiation-induced skin injury by reducing inflammation, oxidative conidiation, skin blood flow, and accelerating skin tissue reconstruction, collagen deposition. FA hydrogel greatly inhibiting the levels of NLRP3, caspase-1, IL-18, pro-IL-1β and IL-1β in vivo and vitro levels through restraining the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome. Transcriptome analysis indicated that FA might regulate wound healing via targeting immune response, inflammatory response, cell migration, angiogenesis, hypoxia response, and cell matrix adhesion. Conclusions: These findings suggest that the novel FA hydrogel is a promising therapeutic method for the prevention and treatment of radiation-induced skin injury patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemodynamic therapy represents a novel tumor therapeutic modality via triggering catalytic reactions in tumors to yield highly toxic reactive oxygen species (ROS). Nevertheless, low efficiency catalytic ability, potential systemic toxicity and inefficient tumor targeting, have hindered the efficacy of chemodynamic therapy. Herein, a rationally designed catalytic nanoplatform, composed of folate acid conjugated liposomes loaded with copper peroxide (CP) and chloroquine (CQ; a clinical drug) (denoted as CC@LPF), could power maximal tumor cytotoxicity, mechanistically via maneuvering endogenous and exogenous copper for a highly efficient catalytic reaction. Despite a massive autophagosome accumulation elicited by CP-powered autophagic initiation and CQ-induced autolysosomal blockage, the robust ROS, but not aberrant autophagy, underlies the synergistic tumor inhibition. Otherwise, this combined mode also elicits an early onset, above all, long-term high-level existence of immunogenic cell death markers, associated with ROS and aberrant autophagy -triggered endoplasmic reticulum stress. Besides, CC@LPF, with tumor targeting capability and selective tumor cytotoxicity, could elicit intratumor dendritic cells (mainly attributed to CQ) and tumor infiltrating CD8+ T cells, upon combining with PD-L1 therapeutic antibody, further induce significant anti-tumor effect. Collectively, the rationally designed nanoplatform, CC@LPF, could enhance tumor chemoimmunotherapy via deploying endogenous plus exogenous copper and remodeling tumor microenvironment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To achieve efficient dispersion of cement and other materials in concrete,polycarboxylate superplasticizer(VPCE) was prepared by using vinyl butyl polyoxyethylene,acrylic acid and other large monomers as the main materials,adding metal oxide additives,allyl sulfonic acid nano small molecule monomers,and H2O2 initiator. The preparation scheme of polycarboxylate super plasticizer was optimized from the aspects of acrylic acid content,initiator composition,reaction temperature,and types of small molecule monomers. Through experimental research,it was found that the reasonable dosages of monomers sodium allylsulfonate, acrylic acid,and vinyl butyl polyoxyethylene alcohol ether are 2.50 g,9.88 g,and 90.00 g,respectively. The optimal initiator system is H2O2/ZnO(1.50 g/0.01 g). The optimal reaction temperature is 20,and the optimal drop time for initiator is 45 minutes. During the experiment,the flowability of the cement slurry can reach the highest level of 283 mm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the relationship between demographic factors and disability type and employment in transition-age individuals with intellectual disabilities who received state vocational rehabilitation services. The study conducted a cross-sectional secondary data analysis of the Rehabilitation Services Administration 911 dataset with an inclusion sample of 39,060 youth. Results indicated that race, ethnicity, gender, education level, and disability type correlated with employment. Specifically, individuals of transition age who were Black, Hispanic, female, had an intellectual disability, and had not completed high school were less likely to be employed than their counterparts who were White, non-Hispanic, male, had a disability other than intellectual disability, and had completed at least high school. These findings were consistent with the previous research. The authors posited that such research going forward would benefit from more studies utilizing primary data collection, mixed-methods designs, more discernment among modifiable and nonmodifiable demographic factors, and using an intersectionality lens to understand the cumulative effect of factors associated with disadvantage or marginalization (i.e., race and ethnicity) on employment in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: 5q spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a progressive autosomal recessive motor neuron disease. Objective: We aimed to assess the effects of nusinersen on motor function and electrophysiological parameters in adolescent and adult patients with 5q SMA. Methods: Patients with genetically confirmed 5q SMA were eligible for inclusion, and clinical data were collected at baseline (V1), 63 days (V4), 180 days (V5), and 300 days (V6). The efficacy of nusinersen was monitored by encompassing clinical assessments, including the Revised Upper Limb Module (RULM), Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale Expanded (HFMSE), 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), and percent-predicted Forced Vital Capacity in sitting position (FVC%) and Compound Muscle Action Potential (CMAP) amplitude. The patients were divided into "sitter" and "walker" subgroups according to motor function status. Results: 54 patients were screened, divided into "sitter" (N = 22) and "walker" (N = 32), with the mean age at baseline of 27.03 years (range 13–53 years). The HFMSE in the walker subgroup increased significantly from baseline to V4 (mean change +2.32-point, P = 0.004), V5 (+3.09, P = 0.004) and V6 (+4.21, P = 0.005). The patients in both the sitter and walker subgroup had no significant changes in mean RULM between V1 and the following time points. Significant increases in CMAP amplitudes were observed in both upper and lower limbs after treatment. Also, patients with RULM ≥ 36 points showed significant CMAP improvements. Our analysis predicted that patients with CMAP amplitudes of trapezius ≥ 1.76 mV were more likely to achieve significant motor function improvements. Conclusions: Nusinersen effectively improves motor function and electrophysiological data in adolescent and adult patients with SMA. This is the first report on the CMAP amplitude changes in the trapezius after treatment in patients with SMA. The CMAP values effectively compensate for the ceiling effect observed in the RULM, suggesting that CMAP could serve as an additional biomarker for evaluating treatment efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The e‐commerce platform has been adopting the agency mode to sell the products of the national brand manufacturer (NBM) while introducing its own store brand and obtaining the consumer's preference information (CPI) to reinforce the competitiveness of the store‐brand products. This paper investigates the platform's decisions on whether to share the CPI with the NBM and its impact on the production timing decisions of the platform and the NBM. The results show that the platform may benefit from CPI sharing which may also change the equilibrium production timing of the platform and the NBM from sequential decision to simultaneous decision. In addition, the equilibria of the joint decision between the CPI sharing and the production timing are obtained, which is related to the market acceptance uncertainties of the products and the competitiveness of the national brands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is an essential metabolite that plays a crucial role in diverse biological processes, including energy metabolism, gene expression, DNA repair, and mitochondrial function. An aberrant NAD+ level mediates the development of cardiovascular dysfunction and diseases. Both in vivo and in vitro studies have demonstrated that nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), as a NAD+ precursor, alleviates the development of cardiovascular diseases such as heart failure, atherosclerosis, and myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury. Importantly, NMN has suggested pharmacological activities mostly through its involvement in NAD+ biosynthesis. Several clinical studies have been conducted to investigate the efficacy and safety of NMN supplementation, indicating its potential role in cardiovascular protection without significant adverse effects. In this review, we systematically summarize the impact of NMN as a nutraceutical and potential therapeutic drug on cardiovascular diseases and emphasize the correlation between NMN supplementation and cardiovascular protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) has a substantial impact on the clinical outcomes and quality of life (QOL) of patients with cirrhosis. However, timely diagnosis and intervention are challenging due to sophisticated diagnostic methods. In this study, 673 healthy controls and 905 patients with cirrhosis were screened, and 660 healthy controls and 757 patients with cirrhosis, divided into the test (292 patients) and validation (465 patients) cohort, were analyzed after screening. A diagnostic model of the Stroop test (Stroop‐CN) was constructed by multivariate linear regression based on the results of healthy controls. The prevalence of MHE and the comparison results with psychometric hepatic encephalopathy score through the Stroop‐CN model were stable in the test and validation cohorts. Moreover, the prevalence of MHE remained significantly higher in patients with worse disease conditions marked as high Child–Pugh grades and the Model for End‐stage Liver Disease and Sodium (MELD‐Na) scores in the test and validation cohort. The EuroQol 5‐D questionnaire revealed that patients with MHE had a worse QOL than those without MHE both in the test and validation cohort. In conclusion, an easy and practical Stroop‐CN model for MHE diagnosis based on the EncephalApp is established. It is found that a considerable number of Chinese patients with cirrhosis experience MHE, which significantly impacts their QOL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The challenge of emerging antimicrobial resistance and variation in antibiotic use across provinces in China call for knowledge on antibiotic utilization at the regional level. This study aims to evaluate the long-term trends and patterns of antibiotic usage in Xinjiang Province, the largest provincial-level division located in the northwest of China, aiming to provide evidence in enhancing provincial antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) and developing policy measures to optimize regional antimicrobial use. Methods: This was an ecological study with temporal trend analysis on inpatient antibiotic utilization, with antibiotic use data from 92 public hospitals covered by Xinjiang's Center for Antibacterial Surveillance from 2012 to 2022. Antibiotic use was measured by the number of daily defined doses per 100 patient days (DDDs/100 pds). Patterns of antibiotic use were described by Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) subgroups and the Access, Watch, Reserve (AWaRe) classification. The Average Annual Percent Change (AAPC) of antibiotic use and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to describe the trend of antibiotic use over time. Joinpoint regression was performed using the Weighted Bayesian Information Criteria (WBIC) model with a parametric method. A pairwise comparison between secondary and tertiary hospitals was conducted to explore disparities in antibiotic use across hospital levels. The most commonly used antibiotics were also analyzed. Results: The total inpatient antibiotic use in Xinjiang was 27.6 DDDs/100 patient days in 2022, with a significant decreasing trend during 2012–2022 (AAPC, −2.0%; 95% CI, −3.6% to −0.4%). The Watch group antibiotics were the most used AWaRe category, with the Access-to-Watch ratio decreasing significantly from 46.4% to 24.4% (AAPC, −6.8%; 95% CI, −8.4% to −5.1%). No significant difference was found in the trend of total antibiotic use between secondary and tertiary hospitals, but there were disparities across hospital levels in subgroups. Third-generation cephalosporins, second-generation cephalosporins, and fluoroquinolones remained the top three antibiotic class throughout the study period. The number of antibiotics accounting for 90% of the total antibiotic use decreased from 34 antibiotics in 2012 to 18 antibiotics in 2022. Conclusions: The decreasing trend of inpatient antibiotic use in Xinjiang's public hospitals reflects the effects of continuous AMS implementation. Patterns of antibiotic use underscore the need for further efforts on evidence-based antibiotic selection and for analyses on the appropriateness of antibiotic use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Controlled low strength material (CLSM) was prepared by mixing sandy soil and fine aggregate from construction waste, and the variation rules of fluidity, bleeding rate, setting time and compressive strength of CLSM were investigated under different mass ratios of sandy soil and fine aggregate from construction waste. The physical composition and micro-morphology of CLSM were investigated by XRD and SEM. The results show that with the decrease of the mass ratio of sandy soil and construction waste fine aggregate, the bleeding rate and fluidity of CLSM decrease, the setting time shortens, and the compressive strength increases. The problem of high bleeding rate was solved by mixing sandy soil with fine aggregate of construction waste, and when the mass ratio of the two was 1:1, the fluidity, bleeding rate, setting time and compressive strength were in line with the requirements of municipal pipeline backfill construction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: There is limited research on whether Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) will affect the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).This study aimed to determine whether PPIs affect the survival outcomes of patients with HBV-associated advanced HCC receiving combination therapy based on ICIs. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV)-associated advanced HCC who underwent ICIs combination therapy from January 1, 2020, to December 30, 2022. Patients were stratified into PPI and non-PPI groups based on whether they received PPI treatment within 30 days before or after ICIs therapy. Patients' survival and the risk of PPI-associated mortality was assessed. Adverse events were also evaluated. Results: A total of 183 patients with HBV-associated HCC treated with ICI combination therapy were included. The median survival time (12.5 months vs 13.7 months, P = 0.285) and incidence of adverse events (P = 0.729) did not significantly differ between the PPI and non-PPI groups. Even after propensity score matching, the difference in median overall survival (OS) between the two groups was not significant (10.7 months vs 11.4 months; P = 0.596) and the patient's OS is not significantly related to the dosage of PPI application (P > 0.05).However, according to our subgroup analysis, among HCC patients with a serum HBV DNA concentration ≥ 200 IU/mL, the use of PPIs significantly increased the risk of mortality in patients receiving ICI combination therapy (P = 0.024). Conclusion: PPIs do not notably influence the survival prognosis of patients receiving ICI combination therapy for HBV-associated advanced HCC. However, among patients with high levels of HBV DNA, PPIs increase the risk of mortality. Therefore, antiviral therapy should be intensified in the patients with HBVDNA > 200 IU/mL. Additionally, PPIs do not impact the incidence of adverse reactions in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel acylhydrazide‐based gelator (BE) was successfully built without the use of traditional fluorescent groups. Surprisingly, in 1,2‐propanediol, the BE can further self‐assemble into a stable supramolecular gel (OBE) and display significant blue‐white aggregation‐induced enhanced emission (AIEE). Interestingly, based on the excellent coordination capacity of acyl hydrazone bonds, the OBE demonstrated a sensitive response to Pd2+ and Fe3+, with corresponding lowest limits of detection of 21.8 and 37.3 ppb, respectively. More interesting, H2PO4− could only be constantly recognized by the Pd‐OBE (Pd2+ coordinated with OBE). Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), density functional theory (DFT) and rheological measurements, the self‐assembly process of OBE, and the ion recognition sensing mechanism were extensively examined. Moreover, xerogel OBE as supporter, a novel heterogeneous catalyst Pd/OBE is prepared. The catalyst displays outstanding activity and stability for Suzuki coupling reactions in water. It can be easily reused for at least five runs with no decrease in the catalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cap‐and‐trade regulation is increasingly adopted by countries and governments to curb carbon emissions. This regulation can be implemented based on two rules, that is, the traditional cap allocation rule and the linear cap allocation rule. Considering the impact of online channel structure on the manufacturer's production and low‐carbon investment strategy, this paper aims to explore the economic and environmental performances of the two rules. The results show that the linear rule encourages the government to allocate less cap to each unit product as the emission abatement level increases, preventing the manufacturer from gaining a windfall profit from the free carbon credits. Besides, the government could use the traditional cap allocation rule to better control the total carbon emissions but use the linear cap allocation rule to obtain more social welfare as well as economic benefit. No matter which cap allocation rule is implemented, the manufacturer always performs better in reseller mode, and the e‐tailer might perform better in reseller (marketplace) mode given a high (low) low‐carbon investment efficiency. This study enriches the literature on the interplay between the cap allocation rule and selling mode and provides insights into decision‐making for governments and firms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various low-density lipoprotein receptors (LPRs) have been identified as entry factors for alphaviruses, and structures of the corresponding virion-receptor complexes have been determined. Here, we analyze the similarities and differences in the receptor binding modes of multiple alphaviruses to understand their ability to infect a wide range of hosts. We further discuss the challenges associated with the development of broad-spectrum treatment strategies against a diverse range of alphaviruses. Recently, studies have identified different low-density lipoprotein receptors as functional entry receptors for alphaviruses. In this Perspective, the authors compare the known alphavirus-receptor structures and discuss why it might be challenging to generate a broad-spectrum entry inhibitor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction/Aims: GNE myopathy is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by pathogenic variants in the GNE gene, which is essential for the sialic acid biosynthesis pathway. Although over 300 GNE variants have been reported, some patients remain undiagnosed with monoallelic pathogenic variants. This study aims to analyze the entire GNE genomic region to identify novel pathogenic variants. Methods: Patients with clinically compatible GNE myopathy and monoallelic pathogenic variants in the GNE gene were enrolled. The other GNE pathogenic variant was verified using comprehensive methods including exon 2 quantitative polymerase chain reaction and nanopore long‐read single‐molecule sequencing (LRS). Results: A deep intronic GNE variant, c.862+870C>T, was identified in nine patients from eight unrelated families. This variant generates a cryptic splice site, resulting in the activation of a novel pseudoexon between exons 5 and 6. It results in the insertion of an extra 146 nucleotides into the messengerRNA (mRNA), which is predicted to result in a truncated humanGNE1(hGNE1) protein. Peanut agglutinin（PNA） lectin staining of muscle tissues showed reduced sialylation of mucin O‐glycans on sarcolemmal glycoproteins. Notably, a third of patients with the c.862+870C>T variant exhibited thrombocytopenia. A common core haplotype harboring the deep intronic GNE variant was found in all these patients. Discussion: The transcript with pseudoexon activation potentially affects sialic acid biosynthesis via nonsense‐mediated mRNA decay, or resulting in a truncated hGNE1 protein, which interferes with normal enzyme function. LRS is expected to be more frequently incorporated in genetic analysis given its efficacy in detecting hard‐to‐find pathogenic variants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought and salt stress are important limiting factors that affect crop growth and yield. As a newly recognized plant hormone, melatonin can participate in the regulation of plant stress tolerance and enhance the tolerance of plants to adversity. In this study, the effects of melatonin (150 µmol·L−1) on agronomic traits, osmotic adjustment substances, antioxidant enzyme activities, and reactive oxygen species content in C. esculentus under different salt (0 and 200 mmol·L−1 NaCl), drought (70% field capacity, 50% field capacity), and salt–drought (200 mmol·L−1 NaCl + 50% field capacity) stress conditions were determined using a pot experiment. Spraying with 150 µmol·L−1 of melatonin effectively improved the plant height, number of blades, biomass, and root growth of C. esculentus seedlings under salt, drought, and combined stress. In addition, this treatment also increased the relative water content, superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase activities, and soluble sugar content of the blades and decreased the relative electroconductivity conductivity and proline, malondialdehyde, hydrogen peroxide, and superoxide anion contents. A comprehensive analysis showed that spraying the plants with exogenous melatonin could increase the activity of antioxidant enzymes and the accumulation of osmotic adjustment substances in C. esculentus blades under salt and drought stress, effectively remove excessive reactive oxygen species, alleviate oxidative damage, and enhance the ability of C. esculentus to resist salt and drought stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following the recent report by Dasenbrock-Gammon et al. [Nature 615, 244–250 (2023)] of near-ambient superconductivity in nitrogen-doped lutetium trihydride (LuH3−δNε), significant debate has emerged surrounding the composition and interpretation of the observed sharp resistance drop. Here, we meticulously revisit these claims through comprehensive characterization and investigations. We definitively identify the reported material as lutetium dihydride (LuH2), resolving the ambiguity surrounding its composition. Under similar conditions (270–295 K and 1–2 GPa), we replicate the reported sharp decrease in electrical resistance with a 30% success rate, aligning with the observations by Dasenbrock-Gammon et al. However, our extensive investigations reveal this phenomenon to be a novel pressure-induced metal-to-metal transition intrinsic to LuH2, distinct from superconductivity. Intriguingly, nitrogen doping exerts minimal impact on this transition. Our work not only elucidates the fundamental properties of LuH2 and LuH3, but also critically challenges the notion of superconductivity in these lutetium hydride systems. These findings pave the way for future research on lutetium hydride systems, while emphasizing the crucial importance of rigorous verification in claims of ambient-temperature superconductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study delves into the efficiency and structure of the social organization network involved in flood disaster management in China's Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA). Leveraging the global knowledge graph, we analyzed social media data and news reports to identify the pivotal roles and interactions of various social organization types in flood disaster governance. The empirical findings underscore the central role of national public social organizations, evidenced by their high frequency of news coverage and mentions. Meanwhile, International Social Organizations and Local Public Social Organizations exhibit growing influence and participation. As China shifts toward a comprehensive disaster reduction strategy, the study observes increased diversity and decentralization among these organizations, with nongovernmental organizations and volunteer groups playing vital roles in resource mobilization, information dissemination, and disaster coordination. Network analysis unveils evolving interaction patterns and co-occurrence frequencies among social organizations, reflecting the evolving roles of different organization types in disaster relief. This research aims to provide actionable insights to enhance the effectiveness of social organizations in disaster management, contributing to the establishment of a more resilient and efficient disaster management framework in the GBA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 3d transition metal dichalcogenide MX2 (M=Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn; X=S, Se, Te) with pyrite structure has attracted widespread attention due to their novel physical properties. Among them, the CuX2 (X=S, Se, and Te) is the only known superconducting system, for which the superconducting transition temperatures (Tc) are 1.5 K (CuS2), 2.4 K (CuSe2) and 1.3 K (CuTe2), respectively. Because they can only be synthesized under high-pressure and high-temperature (HPHT) conditions, earlier reports on CuTe2 are based on the polycrystalline samples and the detailed physical properties have not been reported on single crystal so far. Here, we synthesized high-quality CuTe2 single crystals under HPHT conditions at 5 GPa and 900 °C using the Kawai type 6/8 two-stage multianvil apparatus and performed detailed crystal, transport, magnetism, and specific heat measurements on its physical properties. The results showed that it belongs to the weakly coupled type-II superconductor with Tc about 1.3 K. We systematically compared the relevant superconducting parameters of CuS2, CuSe2, and CuTe2 and further revealed the relationship between their density of state near the Fermi surface and superconducting properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bimetallic sodium-doped magnesium cluster cations, NaMgn+(n= 2–12), have been investigated through a synergetic combination of the CALYPSO code and DFT calculations. The results reveal that the lowest-energy structures of NaMgn+ exhibit linear, planar, triangular pyramid, pentagonal pyramid, and triangular prism topologies. The structures can be described as a substituted geometry of pure Mg clusters at the small size. Starting from n = 9, the dominant structures transform into a triangular prism-based configuration. Like anionic and neutral NaMgn clusters, the Na atom prefers the peripheral regions of the Mgn framework. Stability studies indicate NaMg4+ and NaMg10+ to be the~most stable clusters, which may benefit from their closed-shell electron structures. Analysis of the bonding nature shows stronger Mg-Mg interaction than the Na-Mg interaction in the NaMg4+ and NaMg10+ clusters. The reason is that covalent bonds are formed in the Mg-Mg regions, while there is no aggregation of electron density in the Na-Mg regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Serum amyloid A (SAA) is a clinically useful inflammatory marker involved in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. This study aimed to explore the SAA levels in a cohort of patients with myasthenia gravis (MG) in relation to disease‐related clinical parameters and myasthenic crisis (MC) and elucidate the effects of SAA on immune response. A total of 82 MG patients including 50 new‐onset MG patients and 32 MC patients were enrolled in this study. Baseline data and laboratory parameters of all enrolled MG patients were routinely recorded through electronic medical systems. SAA levels were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. CD4+ T and CD19+ B cell subsets were analyzed by flow cytometry. In vitro, human recombinant SAA (Apo‐SAA) was applied to stimulate peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from MG patients to observe the effect on T and B cell differentiation. Our results indicated that SAA levels in new‐onset MG patients were higher than those in controls and were positively correlated with QMG score, MGFA classification, plasmablast cells, IL‐6, and IL‐17 levels. Subgroup analysis revealed that SAA levels were increased in generalized MG (GMG) patients than in ocular MG (OMG), as well as elevated in late‐onset MG (LOMG) than in early‐onset MG (EOMG) and higher in MGFA III/IV compared with MGFA I/II. The ROC curve demonstrated that SAA showed good diagnostic value for MC, especially when combined with NLR. In vitro, Apo‐SAA promoted the Th1 cells, Th17 cells, plasmablast cells, and plasma cells differentiation in MG PBMCs. The present findings suggested that SAA was increased in MG patients and promoted expansion of CD4+ T cell and CD19+ B cell subsets, which implicated in the severity of MG patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study determined the antibiotic-resistant gene (ARG) contents of 34 groundwater samples in Henan Province collected from September to October 2022, then assessed the roles of both water quality parameters and intI1 in ARG propagation in groundwater. The results show that there existed universal ARG pollution in groundwater, and sulfonamides-, β-lactem-, and tetracycline-resistance genes were the most prevalent gene types during the time. Sul1 contributed the majority proportion of the total resistance genes (TARGs). The prevalence of ESBLs gene blaTEM and the occurrence of Carbapenems resistant gene blaOXA-1 suggests the pollution of high-risk ARGs in groundwater demands more attention. IntI1 is prevalent and had a significantly positive correlation with almost 50% ARGs, indicating its contribution to ARG propagation in groundwater. Well types contribute little to ARG propagation in rural groundwater of Henan, which means the protective facilities established by the local government for public wells can effectively prevent contamination from exogenous ARGs. However, the economic level has no impact on the abundance of ARGs in rural groundwater, which suggests the local government should pay greater attention to investment in controlling ARG pollution in Henan rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A wetting boundary condition for handling contact line dynamics on three-dimensional curved geometries is developed in the lattice Boltzmann color-gradient framework. By combining the geometrical formation and the prediction-correction wetting scheme, the present wetting boundary condition is able to avoid the necessity to select an appropriate interface normal vector from its multiple solutions in the previous prediction-correction method. The effectiveness and accuracy of the wetting boundary condition are first validated by several benchmark cases, namely a droplet resting on a flat surface and on a solid sphere, and the spontaneous imbibition into a cylindrical tube. We then use the color-gradient model equipped with the developed wetting boundary condition to study the trapping behavior of a confined droplet in a microchannel with a cylindrical hole on the top surface, in which the effects of the hole radius and the droplet radius are identified for varying capillary numbers. Results show that the simulated critical capillary numbers, below which the droplet would be anchored by the hole, and the steady-state shapes of the anchored droplet generally match well with their theoretical solutions. The critical capillary number is found to decrease by either decreasing the hole radius or increasing the droplet radius, which is attributed to the weakened anchoring surface energy gradient and the enhanced driving force from outer flow, respectively. In addition, we show that the previous theoretical solutions are valid only when the initial droplet radius is greater than twice the height of the channel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: MiRNAs have been reported to be the key regulators involving a wide range of biological processes in diverse plant species, but their functions in switchgrass, an important biofuel and forage crop, are largely unknown. Here, we reported the novel function of miR528, which has expanded to four copies in switchgrass, in controlling biomass trait of tillering number and regrowth rate after mowing. Blocking miR528 activity by expressing short tandem target mimic (STTM) increased tiller number and regrowth rate after mowing. The quadruple pvmir528 mutant lines derived from genome editing also showed such improved traits. Degradome and RNA‐seq analysis, combined with in situ hybridization assay revealed that up‐regulation of two miR528 targets coding for Cu/Zn‐SOD enzymes, might be responsible for the improved traits of tillering and regrowth in pvmir528 mutant. Additionally, natural variations in the miR528‐SOD interaction exist in C3 and C4 monocot species, implying the distinct regulatory strength of the miR528‐SOD module during monocot evolution. Overall, our data illuminated a novel role of miR528 in controlling biomass traits and provided a new target for genetic manipulation‐mediated crop improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Harvesting biomechanical energy from cardiac motion is an attractive power source for implantable bioelectronic devices. Here, we report a battery-free, transcatheter, self-powered intracardiac pacemaker based on the coupled effect of triboelectrification and electrostatic induction for the treatment of arrhythmia in large animal models. We show that the capsule-shaped device (1.75 g, 1.52 cc) can be integrated with a delivery catheter for implanting in the right ventricle of a swine through the intravenous route, which effectively converts cardiac motion energy to electricity and maintains endocardial pacing function during the three-week follow-up period. We measure in vivo open circuit voltage and short circuit current of the self-powered intracardiac pacemaker of about 6.0 V and 0.2 μA, respectively. This approach exhibits up-to-date progress in self-powered medical devices and it may overcome the inherent energy shortcomings of implantable pacemakers and other bioelectronic devices for therapy and sensing. Harvesting biomechanical energy from cardiac motion is an attractive power source for implantable bioelectronic devices. Here, the authors report a battery-free, transcatheter, self-powered intracardiac pacemaker for the treatment of arrhythmia in large animal models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The stamping process produces thin-walled structures that, in general, have uniform wall thickness and no enclosed cavity. However, it is difficult to satisfy the above geometric requirements with the current density-based topology optimization method, since configuring the related geometric constraints is challenging. In order to solve this problem, a topology optimization method for stamping structures based on a directional density field is proposed. Specifically, the directional density field is developed to enable the adding and removing of materials only along the stamping direction, so as to avoid internal voids and concave features. The geometric control for uniform wall thickness is realized by tuning the truncation threshold of the Heaviside projection that processes the directional density field into the 0–1 binary field. At the same time, a calibrated filter radius of the truncation thresholds will facilitate the drawing angle control of the stamping ribs. The effectiveness of the established method has been verified by a number of numerical case studies. Results show that the proposed method can perform topology optimization for stamping structures with tunable uniform thickness and drawing angle control of the ribs. No internal voids or undercuts appear in the results. The results also disclose that a constant truncation threshold increment does not guarantee uniform wall thickness, and varying the threshold increments through surface offset and polynomial fitting is necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]