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Increased sympathetic and reduced parasympathetic nerve activity is associated with disease progression and poor outcomes in patients with chronic heart failure. The demonstration that markers of autonomic imbalance and vagal dysfunction, such as reduced heart rate variability and baroreflex sensitivity, hold prognostic value in patients with chronic heart failure despite modern therapies encourages the research for neuromodulation strategies targeting the vagus nerve. However, the approaches tested so far have yielded inconclusive results. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge about the role of the parasympathetic nervous system in chronic heart failure, describing the pathophysiological background, the methods of assessment, and the rationale, limits, and future perspectives of parasympathetic stimulation either by drugs or bioelectronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Hard X-ray Imager (HXI) aboard the Advanced Space-based Solar Observatory (ASO-S) is an instrument designed to observe hard X-ray (HXR) spectra and images of solar flares. Having 91 subcollimators to modulate incident X-rays, HXI can obtain 91 modulation data and 45 visibilities to reconstruct images with a spatial resolution as high as ∼ 3.1 arcsec. HXI was launched on 9 October 2022 and powered up on 17 October 2022. After the on-orbit testing phase lasting for three months, HXI was ready for regular observations on 18 January 2023. With fine-tuning of the detectors and electronics, we were able to expand the energy range from ∼ 30 – 200 keV to ∼ 10 keV – 300 keV, which significantly raised the scientific values of the data and the number of detected flare events. This paper presents the changes and improvements of HXI instrument since 2019, the important ground tests, on-orbit tests, and calibration works. We also present the light curves, spectra, and reconstructed images of one flare observed by HXI on 6 January 2023. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice false smut, caused by Ustilaginoidea virens, threatens rice production by reducing yields and contaminating grains with harmful ustiloxins. However, studies on resistance genes are scarce. In this study, the resistance level of IR28 (resistant cultivar) to U. virens was validated through artificial inoculation. Notably, a reactivation of resistance genes after transient down-regulation during the first 3 to 5 dpi was observed in IR28 compared to WX98 (susceptible cultivar). Cluster results of a principal component analysis and hierarchical cluster analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the transcriptome exhibited longer expression patterns in the early infection phase of IR28, consistent with its sustained resistance response. Results of GO and KEGG enrichment analyses highlighted the suppression of immune pathways when the hyphae first invade stamen filaments at 5 dpi, but sustained up-regulated DEGs were linked to the 'Plant–pathogen interaction' (osa04626) pathway, notably disease-resistant protein RPM1 (K13457, CNLs, coil-coiled NLR). An analysis of CNLs identified 245 proteins containing Rx-CC and NB-ARC domains in the Oryza sativa Indica genome. Partial candidate CNLs were shown to exhibit up-regulation at both 1 and 5 dpi in IR28. This study provides insights into CNLs' responses to U. virens in IR28, potentially informing resistance mechanisms and genetic breeding targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The microvascular free fibula (MFF) flap is a reliable treatment modality for mandibular reconstruction and is suitable for dental implant placement after oncologic surgery. The most common issue with the MFF flap is its limited bone height, which typically results in excessive interarch space and complicates prosthodontic therapy. Overcoming the physical limitations from tumor excision and reducing the treatment time for prosthodontic rehabilitation to improve quality of life are critical clinical challenges. Case Presentation: A 64-year-old male with lower left gum and bilateral buccal cancer received a single-layer microvascular MFF flap to reconstruct a mandibular defect post-tumor excision. He underwent a bilateral modiolus Z-plasty combined with a skin flap debulking procedure to relieve oral contracture, achieving adequate mouth opening for prosthodontic rehabilitation. Scar tissue bands on the bilateral cheeks significantly affected retention and stability, hampering dental impression performance. The patient sought prosthodontic rehabilitation to enhance his chewing function and quality of life promptly. Prosthodontic rehabilitation with all-on-4 implant therapy, utilizing computer-aided design and computer-assisted manufacturing (CAD/CAM), was completed within one month. Conclusion: This case utilized the all-on-4 implant system to address the insufficient fibular height for conventional dental implant placements. Dental CAD/CAM was employed to mill custom prosthetic abutments and a large titanium framework for the implant bar overdenture, compensating for the excessive interarch space between the grafted fibula and maxilla. This treatment approach successfully shortened the prosthodontic rehabilitation time and overcame anatomical limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthesis of poison dart frog indolizidine alkaloids (−)‐209D, (−)‐209B and (−)‐223V were accomplished, with a common tricyclic lactone skeleton as the starting compound, in overall yields of 8.8 %, 5.5 %, and 5.2 %, respectively. The construction of the C7−C8 bond in the synthesis of 209D involves simple ring closure metathesis and hydrogenation reactions. However, in the synthesis of 209B and 223V, the C7−C8 bond and the stereochemistry of C8, is achieved through radical cyclization reactions controlled by allylic 1,3‐strain. Cleavage of the excess carbon on the C5 for all the related intermediates were done by Barton decarboxylation protocol. Reduction of the corresponding indolizidin‐3‐ones by LAH completed the total synthesis of these three target molecules. The quantum mechanics calculations were performed on α‐amidyl carbon radical intermediates to account for the observed diastereomeric ratio (~9 : 1) of the key Barton decarboxylation step. Ultimately, the synthesis of 3‐epi‐(−)‐223AB was accomplished in 51.6 % through the cuprate addition to the activated lactam of a late intermediate in the synthesis of (−)‐167B. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellular communication network factor 2 (CCN2) is a matricellular protein that plays important roles in connective tissue. CCN2 is also expressed in the nervous system; however, its role is still unclear. To explore CCN2 function in the brain, we generated forebrain‐specific Ccn2 knockout (FbCcn2 KO) mice. In this study, we examined the behavioral phenotypes of FbCcn2KO mice. Male mice lacking CCN2 in the forebrain exhibited normal locomotion, sensorimotor gating, and social behaviors but signs of anxiety and elevated reactive aggression. We checked the c‐fos expression in aggression‐related brain regions following the resident‐intruder task (RIT), an aggression test. RIT‐induced c‐fos levels in the medial amygdala (MeA) were higher in FbCcn2−/− mice as compared to controls. However, in the prefrontal cortex, RIT‐induced c‐fos levels in FbCcn2−/− mice were lower than controls. Our results suggested in male mice lacking CCN2 in the olfaction‐related regions, olfactory social cues elicit greater signals in the MeA, resulting in greater reactive aggression in the RIT. Further, lacking CCN2 in the prefrontal cortex, the major area related to inhibitory control and emotion regulation, may lead to signs of anxiety and the failure to suppress aggressive behaviors. Our model is useful in elaborating the mechanism underlying reactive aggression and therapeutic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ASO-S/HXI is a bi-grids modulating instrument for solar hard X-ray imaging, whose collimator contains 91 pairs of tungsten grids. Since the solar disk is invisible in hard X-rays, a Solar Aspect System (SAS) is required to provide the pointing of hard X-ray imager (HXI) for locating X-ray sources on the solar disk. In addition, the knowledge of the alignment and relative twist of the corresponding front–rear grid pairs is important for image reconstruction as well as locating flares. Therefore, the SAS system was designed to monitor the alignment status of HXI grids and to provide the pointing direction of the HXI collimator with two subsystems DM and SA during the whole life cycle of HXI. DM measures the centroids of the front frosted glasses and the solar disk. SA images the Sun and provides precise relative locations of the solar disk center. Both work in the visible light of 565–585 nm. With all the data together, we can solve with an inversion algorithm the alignment status of the front and rear grids, the relative twist, and the pointing direction. We tested and validated the SAS design with both the simulation model and ground coordinate measuring machine. Here we present the detailed system design, the testing results, the inversion algorithm, and the in-orbit status of the SAS. Currently, the SAS has realized the rotational measurement accuracy of about 4 arcsec, and a translational measurement accuracy of about 15 μm, and the SAS pointing data has been used in both imaging calibration for flare locations and imaging corrections for the platform drifting effect. The high-cadence precise measurement (better than 0.3 arcsec) of the pointing will allow the study of source locations at different energies and therefore help us to understand electron acceleration and transportation in flares. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate whether the type of frozen embryo transfer (FET) regimen — ovulation-induced regimens vs. hormone replacement therapy regimens (HRT) — is associated with live birth rates and the risk of hypertensive diseases of pregnancy (HDP) in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Methods: All studies in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched using a combination of MeSH terms and keywords. Inclusion criteria included studies on women with a diagnosis of PCOS, utilization of FET, and reporting of pregnancy and/or obstetric outcomes. Studies were excluded if they were case series or conference abstracts or used other FET regimens. A random effects meta-analysis was performed. Primary outcomes include relative risk (RR) of live birth and HDP. Results: Eleven studies were included in the meta-analysis for the final review. Ovulation-induced regimens were associated with a higher live birth rate (8 studies, RR 1.14 [95% CI 1.08, 1.21]) compared to HRT regimens. The risk of HDP (3 studies RR 0.78 [95% CI 0.53, 1.15]) was not significantly different. Ovulation-induced regimens were associated with a lower miscarriage rate (9 studies, RR 0.67 [95% CI 0.59–0.76]). Rates of clinical pregnancy (10 studies, RR 1.05 [95% CI 0.99, 1.11]) and ectopic pregnancy (7 studies, RR 1.40 [95% CI 0.84, 2.33]), were not significantly different. Conclusion: This SR/MA demonstrates that for women with PCOS, ovulation-induced FET regimens are associated with higher rates of live birth and lower rates of miscarriage compared to HRT regimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: GPX8, which is found in the endoplasmic reticulum lumen, is a member of the Glutathione Peroxidases (GPXs) family. Its role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is unknown. Methods: Immunohistochemical staining was used to detect the protein levels of GPX8 in HCC tissue microarrays. A short hairpin RNA lentivirus was used to knock down GPX8, and the main signaling pathways were investigated using transcriptome sequencing and a phosphorylated kinase array. The sphere formation assays, cloning-formation assays and cell migration assays were used to evaluate the stemness and migration ability of HCC cells. Identifying the GPX8-interacting proteins was accomplished through immunoprecipitation and protein mass spectrometry. Results: The GPX8 protein levels were downregulated in HCC patients. Low expression of GPX8 protein was related to early recurrence and poor prognosis in HCC patients. GPX8 knockdown could enhance the stemness and migration ability of HCC cells. Consistently, Based on transcriptome analysis, multiple signaling pathways that include the PI3K-AKT and signaling pathways that regulate the pluripotency of stem cells, were activated after GPX8 knockdown. The downregulation of GPX8 could increase the expression of the tumor stemness markers KLF4, OCT4, and CD133. The in vivo downregulation of GPX8 could also promote the subcutaneous tumor-forming and migration ability of HCC cells. MK-2206, which is a small-molecule inhibitor of AKT, could reverse the tumor-promoting effects both in vivo and in vitro. We discovered that GPX8 and the 71-kDa heat shock cognate protein (Hsc70) have a direct interaction. The phosphorylation of AKT encouraged the translocation of Hsc70 into the nucleus and the expression of the PI3K p110 subunit, thereby increasing the downregulation of GPX8. Conclusion: The findings from this study demonstrate the anticancer activity of GPX8 in HCC by inactivating the Hsc70/AKT pathway. The results suggest a possible therapeutic target for HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Disulfidptosis and ferroptosis are forms of programmed cell death that may be associated with the pathogenesis of periodontitis. Our study developed periodontitis-associated biomarkers combining disulfidptosis and ferroptosis, which provides a new perspective on the pathogenesis of periodontitis. Methods: Firstly, we obtained the periodontitis dataset from public databases and found disulfidptosis- and ferroptosis-related differentially expressed transcripts based on the disulfidptosis and ferroptosis transcript sets. After that, transcripts that are tissue biomarkers for periodontitis were found using three machine learning methods. We also generated transcript subclusters from two periodontitis microarray datasets: GSE16134 and GSE23586. Furthermore, three transcripts with the best classification efficiency were further screened. Their expression and classification efficacy were validated using qRT-PCR. Finally, periodontal clinical indicators of 32 clinical patients were collected, and the correlation between three transcripts above and periodontal clinical indicators was analyzed. Results: We identified six transcripts that are tissue biomarkers for periodontitis, the top three transcripts with the best classification, and delineated two expression patterns in periodontitis. Conclusions: Our study found that disulfidptosis and ferroptosis were associated with immune responses and may involve periodontitis genesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is an inflammatory subtype of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) has recently been proposed as a replacement term for NAFLD, a common, multifactorial and poorly understood liver disease whose incidence is increasing worldwide. In recent years, there has been increasing scientific interest in exploring the relationship between gut microbiota and MASH. To learn more about the gut microbiota in MASH, this study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the knowledge structure and research hotspots from a bibliometric perspective. Methods: We searched the Web of Science Core Collection for articles and reviews that covered the connections between gut microbiota and MASH over the last decade. The Online Analysis Platforms, VOSviewer, CiteSpace, the R tool “bibliometrix” were used to analyzed existing publications trends and hotspots. Results: A total of 4,069 documents related to the interaction between gut microbiota and MASH were retrieved from 2014 to 2023. The number of annual publications increased significantly over the last decade, particularly in the United States and China. The University of California-San Diego was the most productive institution, while researcher Rohit Loomba published the most papers in the field. Younossi ZM was ranked as the first co-cited author and largest contributor of highly cited articles in the field. Gastroenterology and hepatology were the most common specialty category. The most cited journal in the last decade was Hepatology. The Keyword Bursts analysis highlighted the importance of studying the association between gut microbiota and MASH, as well as related factors such as metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, endotoxemia and overgrowth of gut bacteria. Keyword clusters with co-citation were used to illustrate important topics including intestinal permeability, insulin sensitivity and liver immunology. The most common keywords include insulin resistance, obesity, dysbiosis, inflammation and oxidative stress, which are current hotspots. Conclusion: Our analysis highlights key aspects of this field and emphasizes multiorgan crosstalk in MASLD/MASH pathogenesis. In particular, the central role of the gut-liver axis and the significant influence of gut microbiota dysbiosis on disease progression are highlighted. Furthermore, our results highlight the transformative potential of microbiota-specific therapies and cover the way for innovative healthcare and pharmaceutical strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ferroptosis induces significant changes in mitochondrial morphology, including membrane condensation, volume reduction, cristae alteration, and outer membrane rupture, affecting mitochondrial function and cellular fate. Recent reports have described the intrinsic cellular iron metabolism and its intricate connection to ferroptosis, a significant kind of cell death characterized by iron dependence and oxidative stress regulation. Furthermore, updated molecular insights have elucidated the significance of mitochondria in ferroptosis and its implications in various cancers. In the context of cancer therapy, understanding the dual role of anastasis and ferroptosis in chemoresistance is crucial. Targeting the molecular pathways involved in anastasis may enhance the efficacy of ferroptosis inducers, providing a synergistic approach to overcome chemoresistance. Research into how DNA damage response (DDR) proteins, metabolic changes, and redox states interact during anastasis and ferroptosis can offer new insights into designing combinatorial therapeutic regimens against several cancers associated with stemness. These treatments could potentially inhibit anastasis while simultaneously inducing ferroptosis, thereby reducing the likelihood of cancer cells evading death and developing resistance to chemotherapy. The objective of this study is to explore the intricate interplay between anastasis, ferroptosis, EMT and chemoresistance, and immunotherapeutics to better understand their collective impact on cancer therapy outcomes. We searched public research databases including google scholar, PubMed, relemed, and the national library of medicine related to this topic. In this review, we discussed the interplay between the tricarboxylic acid cycle and glycolysis implicated in modulating ferroptosis, adding complexity to its regulatory mechanisms. Additionally, the regulatory role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the electron transport chain (ETC) in ferroptosis has garnered significant attention. Lipid metabolism, particularly involving GPX4 and System Xc- plays a significant role in both the progression of ferroptosis and cancer. There is a need to investigate the intricate interplay between anastasis, ferroptosis, and chemoresistance to better understand cancer therapy clinical outcomes. Integrating anastasis, and ferroptosis into strategies targeting chemoresistance and exploring its potential synergy with immunotherapy represent promising avenues for advancing chemoresistant cancer treatment. Understanding the intricate interplay among mitochondria, anastasis, ROS, and ferroptosis is vital in oncology, potentially revolutionizing personalized cancer treatment and drug development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials that exhibit simultaneously high photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY), rapid reverse intersystem crossing (RISC), and a high horizontal transition dipole ratio are highly desirable for realizing high‐performance organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs). However, achieving this goal remains a formidable challenge due to the stringent molecular design principles involved. Herein, three highly efficient TADF materials based on lactam‐type electron‐acceptors are reported. The inherent rigidity and planar structure of lactam units, along with the ordered molecular arrangement in solid states, contribute to the reduction of nonradiative decay and the high horizontal transition dipole ratio in the optimized TADF emitters. Moreover, through precise control of the alignment of the lowest excited states by adjusting the charge transfer strength, the rate constants for reverse intersystem crossing (kRISC) are dramatically boosted. Consequently, the two optimized emitters exhibit outstanding merits of ultra‐high PLQYs (98% and 99%), high horizontal transition dipole ratios (91% and 87%), and fast RISC (kRISC ≈ 1.7 × 106 s−1). Thanks to these merits, the doped OLEDs achieve excellent performance. The top‐performing device achieve a maximum external quantum efficiency of 34.3%, a peak luminance of 57376 cd m−2, and small efficiency roll‐off. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to predict the effects of different fiber orientations on the elastic constants of composites, this paper takes carbon fiber reinforced polypropylene composites as an example, and adopts the Mori-Tanaka method to establish the Random Volume Element (RVE) model of fiber composites with five different fiber orientations, namely, 0°, 30°, 45°, 60°, and 90°, and investigates the effects of the fiber The effects of fiber orientation and fiber volume fraction on their elastic constants were investigated to obtain the required data by this method instead of experiment. By improving the Halpin-Tsai model, the value of the orientation factor was determined on the basis of the random orientation factor, and the original shape factor was modified to an exponential shape factor, the orientation degree factor was introduced, and finally, the relationship equations between the modified exponential shape factor and the volume fraction and orientation degree were obtained. The results show that for the same fiber orientation and volume fraction, the smaller the value of shape factor, the higher the elastic modulus. The fitting errors of the four values of elastic constants were also analyzed, and it was found that the improved Halpin-Tsai model could be used to predict the elastic constants of carbon fiber-reinforced polypropylene composites in a certain range, thus providing a method to study the prediction of the elastic constants of composites by fiber orientation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Load variations, friction, and external disturbance degrade the control performance of hydraulic servo systems. To attain the high precision trajectory tracking performance for the hydraulic servo systems, a barrier Lyapunov based adaptive controller (BLBAC) is proposed in this paper. For the controller, the adaptive law is developed in each step of backstepping design such that the tracking error can converge to a prescribed accuracy. The state-constrained control of hydraulic servo systems is another issue worthy of attention. Hence, a novel time-varying asymmetric barrier Lyapunov function (TABLF) are adopted to guarantee that the states are not to violate their constraints. The closed-loop signals stability is proved by Lyapunov theory. Comparative simulation results verify the effectiveness of the proposed controller in comparison with the other two controllers for hydraulic servo systems [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) exhibits diverse biological functions; however, its regulatory roles in myogenesis are not fully understood. In the present study, we explored the function of TNFα in myoblast proliferation, differentiation, migration, and myotube fusion in primary myoblasts and C2C12 cells. To this end, we constructed TNFα muscle-conditional knockout (TNFα-CKO) mice and compared them with flox mice to assess the effects of TNFα knockout on skeletal muscles. Results indicated that TNFα-CKO mice displayed phenotypes such as accelerated muscle development, enhanced regenerative capacity, and improved exercise endurance compared to flox mice, with no significant differences observed in major visceral organs or skeletal structure. Using label-free proteomic analysis, we found that TNFα-CKO altered the distribution of several muscle development-related proteins, such as Hira, Casz1, Casp7, Arhgap10, Gas1, Diaph1, Map3k20, Cfl2, and Igf2, in the nucleus and cytoplasm. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) further revealed that TNFα deficiency resulted in positive enrichment in oxidative phosphorylation and MyoD targets and negative enrichment in JAK-STAT signaling. These findings suggest that TNFα-CKO positively regulates muscle growth and development, possibly via these newly identified targets and pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyses a model of strategic exploration in which competing players independently explore a set of alternatives. The model features a multiple-player multiple-armed bandit problem and captures a strategic trade-off between pre-emption —covert exploration of alternatives that the opponent will explore in the future—and prioritization —exploration of the most promising alternatives. Our results explain how the strategic trade-off shapes equilibrium behaviours and outcomes, for example, in technology races between superpowers and R&D competitions between firms. We show that players compete on the same set of alternatives, leading to duplicated exploration from start to finish, and they explore alternatives that are a priori less promising before more promising ones are exhausted. The model also predicts that competition induces players to implement unreliable technologies too early, even though they should wait for the technologies to mature. Coordinated exploration is impossible even if the alternatives are equally promising, but it can emerge in equilibrium following a phase of pre-emptive competition if there is a short deadline. With asymmetric capacities of exploration, the weak player conducts extensive instead of intensive exploration—exploring as many alternatives as the strong player does but never fully exploring any. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Timely and accurate observations of harmful algal blooms dynamics help to coordinate coastal protection and reduce the damage in advance. To date, predicting changes in the spatial distribution of algal blooms has been challenging due to the lack of suitable tools. The paper proposes that the development and disappearance of algal bloom can be monitored by satellite remote sensing in a large area from the diurnal variation of chlorophyll a. In this paper, 32 pairs of observed data in 2011–2020 showed that it was most appropriate to outline the areas where the diurnal variation (the standard deviation calculated from the daily chlorophyll a) in chlorophyll a was more than 2.2 mg/m3 . Among them, 30 pairs of data showed that the high chlorophyll a diurnal variation could predict the growth of the algal bloom in the next days. In these events, the median area difference between the two spatial distributions was -0.08%. When there was a high diurnal variation in chlorophyll a in the area adjacent to where algal bloom was occurred, a new algal bloom region was likely to spread in subsequent days. Continuous multiday time series showed that the diurnal variation in chlorophyll a can reflect the algal bloom’s overall growth condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to the microporosity, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have attracted great attention in various applications, whereas their potential for mass transfer and diffusion of larger molecules has been limited. To break the limit of circumscribed microporosity and gain more applications, it is necessary to dilate the original limited pore size in the MOF structure. Despite many attempts, the generation of orderly distributed porosity in pristine MOFs with precise modulation on the molecular level remains a challenge. In this paper, we present an orientation–modification strategy realized by a plane-oriented etchant of pyrrole (Py), which reduces metal sites into a low-cation valence on specific lattice planes and induces missing linker defects in MOFs. The density functional theory pore size distribution analysis demonstrates that the emerging micropore diameter of the resultant Cu-BTC/PPy is more than twice that of the original Cu-BTC. The coordination mode between Cu+/Cu2+ and linkers is proposed by various chemical characterizations. Moreover, it has been found that Cu-BTC/PPy performs much better in styrene oxidation performed not only in oil baths but also under simulated sunlight at room temperature owing to its enlarged porosity and photothermal effect. This work demonstrates an effective protocol for precisely regulating and modifying the properties of MOFs at the molecular scale for fabricating MOF/ polymer composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complete mitochondrial genome of Squamanita imbachii I. Saar, is unveiled in this research for the first time. It covers 76,643 base pairs (bp) and exhibits a guanine-cytosine (GC) content of 23%. The genome includes 14 conserved protein-coding genes, 1 DNA polymerase gene, 2 ribosomal RNA gene (RNS and RNL), 25 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes and 18 open reading frames (ORFs). Phylogenetic analysis, utilizing a mitochondrial gene dataset from 15 taxa across seven families within the Agaricales order, was conducted employing the maximum-likelihood (ML) approach. This analysis identified a close phylogenetic relationship between S. imbachii and Floccularia luteovirens (Alb. & Schwein.) Pouzar 1957, positioning both within the Squamanitaceae family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To meet the requirements of integrated testing and performance calibration for the early development of electric vehicle thermal management, this paper conducted research on the configuration scheme design of the electric vehicle thermal management integrated testing platform and simulation and optimization of the air supply system flow field. Firstly, a requirement analysis of the testing environment and the overall design of the testing platform was performed. Secondly, simulation techniques were applied to optimize the uniformity of the intake air-flow field in the test section, which was then validated through real testing. Finally, a comparative study of the tested system was conducted through CFD simulations in two different environments, the testing platform and the actual vehicle underhood. The results indicate that the intake air-flow field uniformity in the test section falls within ±3%. The intake flow rate errors for the radiator and condenser, compared to those in the actual vehicle, were found to be 0.039% and 2.116%, respectively. These findings confirm that the testing platform offers good consistency with the flow field in real vehicle testing scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Callicarpa nudiflora can be used as a new green plant feed additive in animal production. The main chemical components of Callicarpa nudiflora are flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, terpenoids, volatile oils, etc. These components play different pharmacological roles in anti-inflammatory, hemostatic, antibacterial, and immune enhancement, which can be used in animal production. In order to promote the further development and citation of Callicarpa nudiflora, the paper summarized the pharmacological activity and mechanism of Callicarpa nudiflora, and summarized its research progress in monogastric animal production, providing a reference for the subsequent development of Callicarpa nudiflora. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Kidney transplantation is considered the most effective treatment for end-stage renal failure. Recent studies have shown that the significance of the immune microenvironment after kidney transplantation in determining prognosis of patients. Therefore, this study aimed to conduct a bibliometric analysis to provide an overview of the knowledge structure and research trends regarding the immune microenvironment and survival in kidney transplantation. Methods: Our search included relevant publications from 2013 to 2023 retrieved from the Web of Science core repository and finally included 865 articles. To perform the bibliometric analysis, we utilized tools such as VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and the R package "bibliometrix". The analysis focused on various aspects, including country, author, year, topic, reference, and keyword clustering. Results: Based on the inclusion criteria, a total of 865 articles were found, with a trend of steady increase. China and the United States were the countries with the most publications. Nanjing Medical University was the most productive institution. High-frequency keywords were clustered into 6 areas, including kidney transplantation, transforming growth factor β, macrophage, antibodymediated rejection, necrosis factor alpha, and dysfunction. Antibody mediated rejection (2019-2023) was the main area of research in recent years. Conclusion: This groundbreaking bibliometric study comprehensively summarizes the research trends and advances related to the immune microenvironment and survival after kidney transplantation. It identifies recent frontiers of research and highlights promising directions for future studies, potentially offering fresh perspectives to scholars in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While enabling students to refer to and build on peer-produced work (termed 'citing' herein) during content creation appears pedagogically promising, its associated learning effects remain under-studied. This research aimed at examining the effects of online citing of peer-generated assessment items during student test-construction on promoting learning and task performance. Additionally, any negative effects this approach may have on inducing cognitive and emotional burdens were examined. A pretest-posttest quasi-experimental research design was adopted, where two treatment groups were devised (i.e. the citing and no-citing groups). A group of fifth-graders from six classes participated in an 11-week study. Based on the results of the analysis of covariance, it was found that students in the citing group scored significantly higher than those in the no-citing group on academic achievement and question-generation performance. In addition, citing did not induce significantly higher cognitive load or learning anxiety as compared to the no-citing situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this study was to explore the effect of sodium salicylate (SS) on semen preservation and metabolic regulation in goats. Methods: Under the condition of low temperature, SS was added to goat semen diluent to detect goat sperm motility, plasma membrane, acrosome, antioxidant capacity, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and metabonomics. Results: The results show that at the 8th day of low-temperature storage, the sperm motility of the 20 μM SS group was 66.64%, and the integrity rates of the plasma membrane and acrosome were both above 60%, significantly higher than those of the other groups. The activities of catalase and superoxide dismutase in the sperm of the 20 μM SS group were significantly higher than those of the control group, the contents of reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde were significantly lower than those in the control group, the MMP was significantly higher than that in the control group, and the contents of Ca2+ and total cholesterol were significantly higher than those in the control group. Through metabonomics analysis, there were significant metabolic differences between the control group and the 20 μM SS group. Twenty of the most significant metabolic markers were screened, mainly involving five metabolic pathways, of which nicotinic acid and nicotinamide metabolic pathways were the most significant. Conclusion: The results indicate that SS can effectively improve the low-temperature preservation quality of goat sperm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hematological indicators of chronic systemic inflammation are significant biomarkers for gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (GEP‐NENs). We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis to assess the impact of certain factors on the overall survival (OS), progression‐free survival (PFS), and disease‐free survival (DFS) of patients with GEP‐NENs. These factors include the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lymphocyte/monocyte ratio (LMR), and C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels. After searching the Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases from January 1, 2000 to October 20, 2022 and the American Society of Clinical Oncology conference proceedings from January 1, 2017, hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were extracted. Subgroup analyses were conducted to identify the origins of heterogeneity and examine the impact of factor grouping. The effects of the cut‐off values and sample size were assessed by meta‐regression. The results revealed that higher NLRs, PLRs, and CRP levels were associated with shorter OS (HR = 2.09, 95% CI = 1.55–2.8; HR = 1.79, 95% CI = 1.40–2.28; and HR = 2.88, 95% CI = 2.09–3.95, respectively; all p < 0.001). Higher NLRs and lower LMRs were associated with shorter DFS (HR = 3.34, 95% CI = 2.11–5.29 and HR = 2.71, 95% CI = 2.27–3.24, respectively; both p < 0.001). Higher PLRs and CRP levels were correlated with shorter PFS (HR = 3.48, 95% CI = 1.34–9.03, p = 0.01 and HR = 3.14, 95% CI = 1.63–6.08, p = 0.001). As demonstrated in the research, hematological indicators of systemic inflammation are promising biomarkers for GEP‐NEN assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inspired by the wings of owls and the tubercles present on humpback whales' flippers, leading-edge serrations have demonstrated the potential to mitigate airfoil–turbulence interaction noise. To deepen our understanding of the underlying mechanisms driving this noise reduction, we conducted compressible large-eddy simulations on a rod-airfoil configuration equipped with wavy leading edges (WLEs) of varying amplitudes. All tested serrations exhibited some degree of noise reduction, with the amplitude of the WLE exerting a significant influence on the overall noise reduction effect. Notably, the wavy airfoil with the largest amplitude demonstrated the most substantial noise reduction in the mid-frequency range, achieving a remarkable decrease in up to 2.2 dB in noise levels. Applying multi-process acoustic theory, we delved into sound production on surfaces and near-field structures responsible for generating noise sources. Our findings underscore a crucial mechanism contributing to noise reduction—the source cutoff effects manifested through the significant weakening of noise sources at hill regions along the serrations' surface. Stronger source cutoff effects were observed with larger WLE amplitudes. Furthermore, our study reveals that destructive relationships among sources also play a pivotal role in reducing flow noise. The reduction in mid-frequency noise results from a synergy of the source cutoff effect and destructive source relationships induced by WLEs, while the decrease in low-frequency noise primarily emanates from the source cutoff effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a global public health concern. However, limited data are available on urinary trace elements and NAFLD caused by various exposure factors. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the presence of 16 trace elements in urine and NAFLD using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Methods: By utilizing the NHANES data from 2017 to 2018, 1613 participants who fulfilled the research criteria were identified from the initial pool of 2979 participants with available urine trace element detection data. Among them, 706 individuals had been diagnosed with NAFLD based on a coefficient of attenuation parameter (CAP) value of at least 274 db/m, determined using vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE); whereas the remaining 907 participants were classified as non-NAFLD. The data obtained were used to construct univariate and multivariate logistic regression models and restricted cubic spline models (RCS) analyses. Results: The presence of arsenic, iodine, barium, cesium, molybdenum, lead, tin, and tungsten in the urine of individuals with NAFLD showed a positive correlation with the likelihood of developing NAFLD. The risk of NAFLD had a non-linear dose-dependent relationship with urinary iodine, molybdenum, barium, and cesium. NAFLD was also associated with elevated levels of barium and cesium in urine, which were identified as significant risk factors. Conclusion: These findings suggest a positive association between exposure to trace elements in the urine and the risk of NAFLD. Specifically, urinary barium and cesium appeared to have the greatest impact on the risk of NAFLD. These results provide novel insights into the diagnosis and treatment of NAFLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melanoma is the most lethal type of skin cancer with an increasing incidence. Cuproptosis is the most recently identified copper-dependent form of cell death that relies on mitochondrial respiration. The hippocampal (Hippo) pathway functions as a tumor suppressor by regulating Yes-associated protein/ transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (YAP/TAZ) activity. However, its role in cuproptosis remains unknown. In addition, the correlation of cuproptosis-related genes and Hippo pathway-related genes with tumor prognosis warrants further investigation. In the present study, we explored the correlation of cuproptosis-related genes and Hippo pathway-related genes with the prognosis of melanoma through analysis of data from a public database and experimental verification. We found eight Hippo pathway-related genes that were downregulated in melanoma and exhibited predictive value for prognosis. There was a significant positive correlation between cuproptosis-related genes and Hippo pathway-related genes in skin cutaneous melanoma. YAP1 expression was positively correlated with ferredoxin 1 (FDX1) expression in the GSE68599 dataset and A2058 cells. Moreover, YAP1 was positively and negatively correlated with M2 macrophages and regulatory T cell infiltration, respectively. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated the prognostic value of Hippo pathway-related genes (particularly YAP1) in melanoma, revealing the correlation between the expression of Hippo pathway-related genes and immune infiltration. Thus, the present findings may provide new clues on the prognostic assessment of patients with melanoma and a new target for the immunotherapy of this disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dietary protein supplementation has emerged as a promising strategy in combating sarcopenia. Furthermore, searching for alternatives of animal proteins has been a hot topic. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of zein peptides on C2C12 myoblasts and explore their potential molecular mechanisms. The proliferative, cell cycle, and anti-apoptotic activities of zein peptides were evaluated. Peptidomics analysis and transcriptome sequencing were employed to explore the structure-activity relationship and underlying molecular mechanisms. The results indicated that zein peptides (0.05–0.2 mg/mL) exerted a significant proliferation-promoting impact on C2C12 cells, via increasing cell viability by 33.37 to 42.39%. Furthermore, zein peptides significantly increased S phase proportion and decreased the apoptosis rate from 34.08% (model group) to 28.96% in C2C12 cells. In addition, zein peptides exhibited a pronounced anti-apoptotic effect on C2C12 cells. Zein peptides are abundant in branch-chain amino acids, especially leucine. Transcriptomics analysis revealed that zein peptides can promote proliferation, accelerate cell cycle, and improve protein synthesis of muscle cells through mTORC1 and mTORC2 signaling pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Deteriorations in eggshell and bone quality are major challenges in aged laying hens. This study compared the diferences of eggshell quality, bone parameters and their correlations as well as uterine physiological characteristics and the bone remodeling processes of hens laying eggs of diferent eggshell breaking strength to explore the mechanism of eggshell and bone quality reduction and their interaction. A total of 240 74-week-old Hy-line Brown laying hens were selected and allocated to a high (HBS, 44.83±1.31 N) or low (LBS, 24.43±0.57 N) eggshell breaking strength group. Results A decreased thickness, weight and weight ratio of eggshells were observed in the LBS, accompanied with ultrastructural deterioration and total Ca reduction. Bone quality was negatively correlated with eggshell quality, marked with enhanced structures and increased components in the LBS. In the LBS, the mammillary knobs and efective layer grew slowly. At the initiation stage of eggshell calcifcation, a total of 130 diferentially expressed genes (DEGs, 122 upregulated and 8 downregulated) were identifed in the uterus of hens in the LBS relative to those in the HBS. These DEGs were relevant to apoptosis due to the cellular Ca overload. Higher values of p62 protein level, caspase-8 activity, Bax protein expression and lower values of Bcl protein expression and Bcl/Bax ratio were seen in the LBS. TUNEL assay and hematoxylin-eosin staining showed a signifcant increase in TUNEL-positive cells and tissue damages in the uterus of the LBS. Although few DEGs were identifed at the growth stage, similar uterine tissue damages were also observed in the LBS. The expressions of runt-related transcription factor 2 and osteocalcin were upregulated in humeri of the LBS. Enlarged diameter and more structural damages of endocortical bones and decreased ash were observed in femurs of the HBS. Conclusion The lower eggshell breaking strength may be attributed to a declined Ca transport due to uterine tissue damages, which could afect eggshell calcifcation and lead to a weak ultrastructure. Impaired uterine Ca transport may result in reduced femoral bone resorption and increased humeral bone formation to maintain a higher mineral and bone quality in the LBS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Introduction: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) staging scans are critical for the diagnosis and treatment of patients with nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC). We aimed to evaluate the application value of LAVA-Flex and T1WI-IDEAL sequences in MRI staging scans. Methods: Eighty-four newly diagnosed NPC patients underwent both LAVA-Flex and T1WI-IDEAL sequences during MRI examinations. Two radiologists independently scored the acquisitions of image quality, fat suppression quality, artifacts, vascular and nerve display. The obtained scores were compared using the Wilcoxon signed rank test. According to the signal intensity (SI) measurements, the uniformity of fat suppression, contrast between tumor lesions and subcutaneous fat tissue, and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) were compared by the paired t-test. Results: Compared to the T1WI-IDEAL sequence, LAVA-Flex exhibited fewer artifacts (P<0.05), better visualization of nerves and vessels (P<0.05), and performed superior in the fat contrast ratio of the primary lesion and metastatic lymph nodes (0.80 vs. 0.52, 0.81 vs. 0.56, separately, P<0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in overall image quality, tumor signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), muscle SNR, and the detection rate of lesions between the two sequences (P>0.05). T1WI-IDEAL was superior to LAVA-Flex in the evaluation of fat suppression uniformity (P<0.05). Discussion: LAVA-Flex sequence provides satisfactory image quality and better visualization of nerves and vessels for NPC with shorter scanning times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]