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Abstract Upon activation, naive B cells exit their quiescent state and enter germinal center (GC) responses, a transition accompanied by increased protein synthesis. How protein translation efficiency is adequately adjusted to meet the increased demand requires further investigation. Here, we identify the methyltransferase METTL1 as a translational checkpoint during GC responses. Conditional knockout of Mettl1 in mouse B cells blocks GC entry and impairs GC formation, whereas conditional knock-in of Mettl1 promotes GC responses. Mechanistically, METTL1 catalyzes m7G modification in a specific subset of tRNAs to preferentially translate BCR signaling-related proteins, ensuring mitochondrial electron transporter chain activity and sufficient bioenergetics in B cells. Pathologically, METTL1-mediated tRNA m7G modification controls B-cell autoreactivity in SLE patients or lupus-prone mice, and deletion of Mettl1 alleviates dysregulated B-cell responses during autoimmune induction. Thus, these results support the function of METTL1 in orchestrating an effective B-cell response and reveal that aberrant METTL1-mediated tRNA m7G modification promotes autoreactive B cells in systemic autoimmunity.

ObjectivesThis study analyzes the influencing factors of the aeroacoustic noise of cruise ship chimney exhaust pipelines, and predicts the noise level in the open area of a domestic cruise ship. MethodsA hybrid approach combining Large Eddy Simulation and Lighthill Analogy is used to conduct a numerical simulation of the pipeline’s aeroacoustic noise under the actual working conditions of a cruise ship. The impacts of the inlet flow rate, outlet pressure, cross-section shape and bending angle on the aerodynamic noise are studied. A real-size cruise ship chimney exhaust pipeline model is then established to analyze the main noise sources and predict the noise level in the open areaa. ResultsThe results show that the larger the inlet velocity and bending angle, the greater the aeroacoustic noise. Furthermore, the aeroacoustic noise of a pipeline with a zero pressure-outlet is greater than that with a non-zero pressure-outlet. It is also found that the aeroacoustic noise of a rectangular cross-sectional pipeline is marginally smaller than that of a circular one. In addition, the narrowband peak frequency decreases as the bending angle increases. Except for the chimney outlet, the noise level in the open area is low. ConclusionsThis study has significant reference value for controlling the aeroacoustic noise of cruise ship chimney exhaust pipelines and improving passenger comfort in open areas.

With increasing local conflicts worldwide, studying the impact response of body armor is crucial for enhancing soldier survival rates. However, there is still insufficient understanding of the back bulge expansion patterns, the impact waves transmission features, and blunt injury assessing method of body armor. To investigate these problems deeply, the three-dimensional digital image correlation method and numerical models were employed to reveal the ballistic response mechanism of ceramic/ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) composite body armor impacted by 7.62 mm rifle bullet. This study built theoretical function for the bulge expansion, revealed the wave transmission mechanism and fractures in both materials and their interaction. Firstly, the experiment revealed that the back-face bulge transverse expansion velocity exhibits a double exponential decrease. Secondly, the contour of back-face bulges consistently demonstrated excellent hyperbolic characteristics at various moments. Thirdly, the average Viscous Criterion (VC) and Blunt Criterion (BC) values were 5.37 and 0.95, corresponding to Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) values of 6 and 4. Fourthly, the simulation revealed that the ceramics transverse and radial cracks seems primarily induced by shear stress xy; ceramics conical cracks occurring at the boundaries of equivalent stress seems primarily induced by stress in x and y directions. Fifthly, numerical results revealed that the velocity of compression waves within the laminate increases over time in the impact direction and consistent with ceramic velocity impacted on the laminate. These findings lead to experimental and theoretical advances in the impact response mechanism of composite body armor and provide index for improving the protective performance.

This editorial summarises the papers selected for publication in the Special Issue on Advances in Volt/Var Control for Active Distribution Networks with High-Level Intermittent Renewable Energy Resources. The Special Issue contains 13 high-quality papers which are classified into novel models of VVC (3 papers), design of VVC framework (3 papers), data-driven VVC (5 papers), and VVC in special power systems (2 papers). The Special Issue can provide advanced VVC methods with invaluable insights to enhance renewable energy utilisation efficiency, power loss reduction for public infrastructure, and guarantee high power quality for end-users.

Biomass-derived carbon materials (BDCs) are highly regarded for their renewability, environmental friendliness, and broad potential for application. A significant advantage of these materials lies in the high degree of customization of their physical and chemical properties, especially in terms of pore structure. Pore engineering is a key strategy to enhance the performance of BDCs in critical areas, such as energy storage, catalysis, and environmental remediation. This review focuses on pore engineering, exploring the definition, classification, and adjustment techniques of pore structures, as well as how these factors affect the application performance of BDCs in energy, catalysis, and environmental remediation. Our aim is to provide a solid theoretical foundation and practical guidance for the pore engineering of BDCs to facilitate the rapid transition of these materials from the laboratory to industrial applications.

Background: Pulmonary sequestration (PS), generally diagnosed using computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA), is a rare congenital developmental malformation of the lung that is characterized by nonfunctional lung tissue, independent of the normal lung tissue. This paper summarizes the imaging features of the supplying arteries and draining vessels in patients with PS with an aim to assist in timely clinical diagnosis and operation guidance. Materials and Methods: A total of 55 patients with PS diagnosed using CTPA from multiple clinical centers were retrospectively analyzed. Data included demographic characteristics, imaging features, disease location, isolation type, and the features of supplying and draining vessels, as shown on CTPA images. Results: Of the 55 patients reviewed, 3 (5.45%) were children, 3 (5.45%) were adolescents, and 49 (89.09%) were adults; the mean age was 44 years. Fifty-four (98.18%) patients had intralobar sequestration and one (1.82%) had extralobar sequestration. PS was noted 3.5 times more frequently in the left lower lobe than in the right lower lobe. For the supplying arteries, 47 (85.45%) were derived from the descending thoracic aorta, 1 (1.82%) from the abdominal aorta, 7 (12.73%) from the celiac axis, and 1 (1.82%) from the bronchial artery. The draining vessels were the pulmonary veins in 49 patients (89.09%), the umbilical vein in 1 (1.82%), the venae intercostal in 1 (1.82%), the pulmonary arteries in 11 (20.00%), and the vessels were not shown on the images in 2 patients (3.64%). Conclusion: Clinical presentations of PS are non-specific and can be easily missed or misdiagnosed. However, CTPA can help to improve the diagnostic accuracy and identify the supplying arteries and draining vessels, which significantly contribute to surgical planning.

Cellular structures are commonly used to design energy-absorbing structures, and origami structures are becoming a prevalent method of cellular structure design. This paper proposes a foldable cellular structure based on the Waterbomb origami pattern. The geometrical configuration of this structure is described. Quasi-static compression tests of the origami tube cell of this cellular structure are conducted, and load-displacement relationship curves are obtained. Numerical simulations are carried out to analyze the effects of aspect ratio, folding angle, thickness and number of layers of origami tubes on initial peak force and specific energy absorption (SEA). Calculation formulas for initial peak force and SEA are obtained by the multiple linear regression method. The degree of influence of each parameter on the mechanical properties of the single-layer tube cell is compared. The results show that the cellular structure exhibits negative stiffness and periodic load-bearing capacity, as well as folding angle has the most significant effect on the load-bearing and energy-absorbing capacity. By adjusting the design parameters, the stiffness, load-bearing capacity and energy absorption capacity of this cellular structure can be adjusted, which shows the programmable mechanical properties of this cellular structure. The foldability and the smooth periodic load-bearing capacity give the structure potential for application as an energy-absorbing structure.

Summary: Emerging studies have demonstrated the link between RNA modifications and various cancers, while the predictive value and functional mechanisms of RNA modification-related genes (RMGs) in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remain unclear. Here we established a prognostic signature for ESCC based on five RMGs. The analysis of ESCC clinical samples further verified the prognostic power of the prognostic signature. Moreover, we found that the knockdown of NSUN6 promotes ESCC progression in vitro and in vivo, whereas the overexpression of NSUN6 inhibits the malignant phenotype of ESCC cells. Mechanically, NSUN6 mediated tRNA m5C modifications selectively enhance the translation efficiency of CDH1 mRNA in a codon dependent manner. Rescue assays revealed that E-cadherin is an essential downstream target that mediates NSUN6’s function in the regulation of ESCC progression. These findings offer additional insights into the link between ESCC and RMGs, as well as provide potential strategies for ESCC management and therapy.

Abstract Background To develop an ultrasound scoring system for placenta accreta spectrum (PAS), evaluate its diagnostic value, and provide a practical approach to prenatal diagnosis of PAS. Methods A total of 532 pregnant women (n = 184 no PAS, n = 120 placenta accreta, n = 189 placenta increta, n = 39 placenta percreta) at high-risk for placenta accreta who delivered in the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University between January 2021 and December 2022 underwent prenatal ultrasound to evaluate placental invasion. An ultrasound scoring system that included placental and cervical morphology and history of cesarean section was created. Each feature was assigned a score of 0 ~ 2, according to severity. Thresholds for the total ultrasound score that discriminated between no PAS, placenta accreta, placenta increta, and placenta percreta were calculated. Results Univariate and multivariate regression analysis identified seven indicators of PAS that were included in the ultrasound scoring system, including placental location, placental thickness, presence/absence of the retroplacental space, thickness of the retroplacental myometrium, presence/absence of placental lacunae, retroplacental myometrial blood flow and history of cesarean section. Using the final ultrasound scoring system, no PAS is diagnosed at a total score

Summary: Aberrant RNA modifications are frequently associated with cancers, while the underlying mechanisms and clinical significance remain poorly understood. Here, we find that the ac4C RNA acetyltransferase NAT10 is significantly upregulated in esophageal cancers (ESCAs) and associated with poor ESCA prognosis. In addition, using ESCA cell lines and mouse models, we confirm the critical functions of NAT10 in promoting ESCA tumorigenesis and progression in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, NAT10 depletion reduces the abundance of ac4C-modified tRNAs and decreases the translation efficiencies of mRNAs enriched for ac4C-modified tRNA-decoded codons. We further identify EGFR as a key downstream target that facilitates NAT10’s oncogenic functions. In terms of clinical significance, we demonstrate that NAT10 depletion and gefitinib treatment synergistically inhibit ESCA progression in vitro and in vivo. Our data indicate the mechanisms underlying ESCA progression at the layer of mRNA translation control and provide molecular insights for the development of effective cancer therapeutic strategies.

Abstract Gallic acid is a natural phenolic acid that has a stress inhibition effect on Escherichia coli. This study by integrates fermentation characteristics and transcriptional analyses to elucidate the physiological mechanism of E. coli 3110 response to gallic acid. Compared with the control (without stress), the cell growth was severely retarded, and irregular cell morphology appeared in the case of high levels of gallic acid stress. The glucose consumption of E. coli was reduced successively with the increase of gallic acid content in the fermentation medium. After 20 h of gallic acid stress, cofactor levels (ATP, NAD+ and NADH) of E. coli 3110 were similarly decreased, indicating a more potent inhibitory effect of gallic acid on E. coli. The transcriptional analysis revealed that gallic acid altered the gene expression profiles related to five notable differentially regulated pathways. The genes related to the two-component system were up-regulated, while the genes associated with ABC-transporter, energy metabolism, carbon metabolism, and fatty acid biosynthesis were down-regulated. This is the first report to comprehensively assess the toxicity of gallic acid on E. coli. This study has implications for the efficient production of phenolic compounds by E. coli and provides new ideas for the study of microbial tolerance to environmental stress and the identification of associated tolerance targets. Graphical abstract

We introduced a label-free sensing system based on an array of microring resonators (MRRs) which was successfully employed for human serum albumin (HSA) detection. The sensing-ring surface was functionalized to immobilize anti-HSA, facilitating HSA binding. Our refractive index sensing system demonstrates high sensitivity at 168 nm/RIU and a low limit of detection (LOD) of 63.54 ng/mL, closely comparable to current HSA detection methods. These findings confirm the potential of MRRs as biocompatible sensors for HSA detection. This system holds great promise as an innovative platform for the detection of HSA, carrying significant importance in medical diagnostics.

Deregulation of METTL1-mediated N7- methylguanosine tRNA modification can promote oncogenesis. Here, the authors report that this modification regulates the translation of proteins in both the mTOR and negative regulators of autophagy pathways, resulting in the progression of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

Esophageal cancer is a lethal malignancy with a high mortality rate, while the molecular mechanisms underlying esophageal cancer pathogenesis are still poorly understood. Here, we found that the N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3) is significantly upregulated in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and associated with poor patient prognosis. Depletion of METTL3 results in decreased ESCC growth and progression in vitro and in vivo. We further established ESCC initiation and progression models using Mettl3 conditional knockout mouse and revealed that METTL3-mediated m6A modification promotes ESCC initiation and progression in vivo. Moreover, using METTL3 overexpression ESCC cell model and Mettl3 conditional knockin mouse model, we demonstrated the critical function of METTL3 in promoting ESCC tumorigenesis in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, METTL3-catalyzed m6A modification promotes NOTCH1 expression and the activation of the Notch signaling pathway. Forced activation of Notch signaling pathway successfully rescues the growth, migration, and invasion capacities of METTL3-depleted ESCC cells. Our data uncovered important mechanistical insights underlying ESCC tumorigenesis and provided molecular basis for the development of novel strategies for ESCC diagnosis and treatment.

Abstract Background Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive subtype of breast cancer, and the targeted therapies are lacking for this type of cancer. We previously demonstrated that Huaier effectively improve 5-year OS and DFS in stage III TNBC patients, and the polysaccharides of Huaier (PS-T) have been identified as the major components of Huaier. However, the mechanisms of anti-tumor action of PS-T is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effect of PS-T on TNBC cell invasion and migration. Results This study showed that PS-T inhibited cell invasion and migration both in vitro and in vivo by inducing autophagy to suppress epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Autophagy inhibitor LY294002 or knockdown of ATG5 suppressed the inhibitory effects of PS-T. In addition, as a key transcription factor controlling EMT initiation, Snail was found to be degraded by PS-T induced autophagy. In addition, overexpression of Snail reversed the inhibitory effects of PS-T. Furthermore, it was confirmed that the expression of Snail was inversely correlated with LC3 and associated with poor prognosis using immunohistochemistry and TCGA database analysis, respectively. Conclusions This study demonstrated that PS-T could inhibit EMT in breast cancer cells by inducing autophagy to degrade Snail protein, thus improving the prognosis of TNBC, offering potential treatment alternatives for TNBC patients.

Salidroside, the main bioactive compound isolated from the plant source of Rhodiola rosea L, possesses broad-spectrum pharmacological activities, but suffers from the low cell membranes permeability and alimentary absorption due to its high polarity. Therefore, a whole-cell catalytic strategy for the synthesis of salidroside esters was explored to improve its lipophilicity. The results showed that Aspergillus oryzae demonstrated the highest biocatalytic activity among the microbial strains tested. For the synthesis of salidroside caprylate, the optimum conditions of reaction medium, Aspergillus oryzae amount, molar ratio of vinyl caprylate to salidroside and reaction temperature were acetone, 30 mg/ml, 10°C and 40°C, respectively. Under these conditions, the initial reaction rate was 15.36 mM/h, and substrate conversion and regioselectivity all reached 99%. Moreover, the results indicated that although various 6′-monoesters derivatives of salidroside were exclusively obtained with excellent conversions (96%–99%), the reaction rate varied greatly with different chain-length acyl donors. This study details an efficient and cost-effective biocatalytic approach for the synthesis of salidroside esters by using Aspergillus oryzae as a catalyst for the first time. Considering the whole cell catalytic efficiency and operational stability, this strategy may provide a new opportunity to develop green industrial processes production for ester derivatives of salidroside and its analogues.

In recent years, drought stress caused by global warming has become a major constraint on agriculture. The thiamine thiazole synthase (THI1) is responsible for controlling thiamine production in plants displaying a response to various abiotic stresses. Nonetheless, most of the THI1 activities in plants remain largely unknown. In this study, we extracted MsTHI1 from alfalfa and demonstrated its beneficial impact on improving the resistance of plants to stress conditions. The highest levels of MsTHI1 expression were identified in alfalfa leaves, triggered by exposure to cold, drought, salt, or alkaline conditions. The upregulation of MsTHI1 in drought-stressed transgenic plants resulted in enhanced accumulation of vitamin B1 (VB1), chlorophyll a (Chl a), chlorophyll b (Chl b), soluble protein, higher soil and plant analyzer development (SPAD) value, and the activity of peroxidase (POD), maintained Fv/Fm, and decreased lipid peroxidation. Moreover, overexpression of MsTHI1 upregulated the transcription of THI4, TPK1, RbcX2, Cu/Zn-SOD, CPK13, and CPK32 and downregulated the transcription of TH1 and CPK17 in transgenic alfalfa under drought stress. These results suggested that MsTHI1 enhances drought tolerance by strengthening photosynthesis, regulating the antioxidant defense system, maintaining osmotic homeostasis, and mediating plant signal transduction.

[Abstract]: Objective: To provide the optimal measure for the prevention and control of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) of Chinese patent medicine (CPM), high-risk factors of ADRs induced by CPM were explored. Methods: ADR report data of CPM from patients hospitalized in a Level III Grade A Hospital for 7 consecutive years were collected, and Pareto-optimal analysis method was used to determine the high-risk characteristic values of patients’ age, drug type, and involved systems/organs. Results: The high-risk characteristics for ADRs included age ≥ 51 years, blood-regulating drugs, and ADRs were observed most commonly in systemic damage, damage in the cardiovascular system, and skin and its accessories. Conclusion: These high-risk characteristics should be considered when prescribing CPM. Drugs and medical instruments required for ADR treatment should be prepared before drug use, and early symptoms of ADRs should be monitored closely during CPM administration to timely discontinue suspected drugs, provide appropriate treatment, and improve prevention and control of ADRs.

For the marine industry, resistance reduction can reduce energy consumption and achieve protection of the marine environment. The use of air lubrication to reduce the resistance of ships is one of the most important ways. With this technology, high-speed air cavity crafts show immense potential as they can be utilized in various marine activities, such as emergency rescue, supply, and maritime security. Through experiments, this study presents an in-depth analysis of the effects of bubble chamber pressure and initial stern inclination on the resistance of high-speed air cavity crafts at different speeds. The results show that air pressure has a significant impact on resistance. It was found that as the speed of the ship increased, the resistance reduction effect became more prominent under the same pressure conditions. Moreover, the resistance tended to stabilize when the pressure reached a certain value. In addition to the air pressure, the longitudinal inclination does have an effect on resistance reduction. To achieve better resistance reduction, the initial stern inclination angle should be chosen appropriately. Furthermore, adjusting the angle with speed changes can optimize the resistance reduction effect. This experimental study provides critical support for conducting further research on high-speed air cavity crafts. The findings offer valuable insights into improving hull forms, guiding host selection, and assessing performance.

Water is the source of life and the fundamental element of ecology, and climate is inseparable from water. To evaluate the influence of water-adaptive space in a traditional Weizi (polder village) settlement on its microclimate, the authors analyzed the morphological characteristics of such a polder village and applied the ENVI-met model to simulate the impact of water bodies and village morphological elements on human thermal comfort. This paper demonstrates the positive impact of water bodies on improving the thermal environment of a village and regulating its microclimate by quantifying the impact of morphological elements of the settlement on microclimate. The results indicate that: 1) The simulation model fits the actual measurements well, and the simulation accurately reflects experimental results; 2) In summer, the cooling effect of water bodies is better in the afternoon than in the morning, especially from 12:00 to 15:00. The cooling effect is significantly correlated with the distance to water bodies, i.e., the closer, the better; 3) Building density and man-made underlying surface are negatively correlated with temperature, humidity, and Physiological Equivalent Temperature value, while greening rate and water body rate are positively correlated with microclimate. Overall, water bodies can improve outdoor comfort in summer and thus should be protected and developed in rural planning and design. Villages can be built around water bodies for a maximized cooling effect, and microclimate comfort can be effectively improved by increasing green plants near the village center, and reducing man-made underlying surface and building density. The results of this study will guide the improvement of the habitat environment in the process of rural revitalization, as well as the protection and re-development of traditional villages.

The conversion of flavonoid glycosides and their analogs to their lipophilic ester derivatives was developed by nanobiocatalysts from immobilizing Thermomyces lanuginosus lipase (TLL) on polydopamine-functionalized magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles (Fe3O4-PDA-TLL). The behavior investigation revealed that Fe3O4-PDA-TLL exhibits a preference for long chain length fatty acids (i.e., C10 to C14) with higher reaction rates of 12.6–13.9 mM/h. Regarding the substrate specificity, Fe3O4-PDA-TLL showed good substrate spectrum and favorably functionalized the primary OH groups, suggesting that the steric hindrances impeded the secondary or phenolic hydroxyl groups of substrates into the bonding site of the active region of TLL to afford the product.

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) affects millions of Americans each year, with extremely high prevalence in the Veteran community, and sleep disturbance is one of the most commonly reported symptoms. Reduction in the quality and amount of sleep can negatively impact recovery and result in a wide range of behavioral and physiological symptoms, such as impaired cognition, mood and anxiety disorders, and cardiovascular effects. Thus, to improve long-term patient outcomes and develop novel treatments, it is essential to understand the molecular mechanisms involved in sleep disturbance following TBI. In this effort, we performed transcriptional profiling in an established rodent model of penetrating ballistic brain injury (PBBI) in conjunction with continuous sleep/wake EEG/EMG recording of the first 24 h after injury. Rats subjected to PBBI showed profound differences in sleep architecture. Injured animals spent significantly more time in slow wave sleep and less time in REM sleep compared to sham control animals. To identify PBBI-related transcriptional differences, we then performed transcriptome-wide gene expression profiling at 24 h post-injury, which identified a vast array of immune- related genes differentially expressed in the injured cortex as well as sleep-related genes. Further, transcriptional changes associated with total time spent in various sleep stages were identified. Such molecular changes may underlie the pathology and symptoms that emerge following TBI, including neurodegeneration, sleep disturbance, and mood disorders.

Background: Aerobic training has been used as one of the common treatments for type 2 diabetes; however, further research on the individualized exercise program with the optimal intensity is still necessary. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of supervised exercise training at the maximal fat oxidation (FATmax) intensity on body composition, glycemic control, lipid profile, and physical capacity in older people with type 2 diabetes. Methods: Twenty-four women and 25 men with type 2 diabetes, aged 60–69 years. The exercise groups trained at the individualized FATmax intensity for 1 h/day for 3 days/week over 16 weeks. No dietary intervention was introduced during the experimental period. Whole body fat, abdominal fat, oral glucose tolerance test, lipid profile, and physical capacity were measured before and after the interventions. Results: FATmax intensity was at 41.3 ± 3.2% VO2max for women and 46.1 ± 10.3% VO2max for men. Exercise groups obtained significant improvements in body composition, with a special decrease in abdominal obesity; decreased resting blood glucose concentration and HbA1c; and increased VO2max, walking ability, and lower body strength, compared to the non-exercising controls. Daily energy intake and medication remained unchanged for all participants during the experimental period. Conclusion: Beside the improvements in the laboratory variables, the individualized FATmax training can also benefit daily physical capacity of older people with type 2 diabetes. Keywords: Type 2 diabetes, Exercise training, Maximal fat oxidation rate, Physical capacity, Older people

Composite load model of Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC) is a newly developed load model that has drawn great interest from the industry. To analyze its dynamic characteristics with both mathematical and engineering rigors, a detailed mathematical model is needed. Although composite load model of WECC is available in commercial software as a module and its detailed block diagrams can be found in several public reports, there is no complete mathematical representation of the full model in literature. This paper addresses a challenging problem of deriving detailed mathematical representation of composite load model of WECC from its block diagrams. In particular, we have derived the mathematical representation of the new DER_A model. The developed mathematical model is verified using both MATLAB and PSS/E to show its effectiveness in representing composite load model of WECC. The derived mathematical representation serves as an important foundation for parameter identification, order reduction and other dynamic analysis.

We report electron transport studies of a thin InAs-Al hybrid semiconductor-superconductor nanowire device using a four-terminal design. Compared to previous studies, thinner InAs nanowire (diameter less than 40 nm) is expected to reach fewer subband regime. The four-terminal device design excludes electrode contact resistance, an unknown value, which has inevitably affected previously reported device conductance. Using tunneling spectroscopy, we find large zero bias peaks (ZBPs) in differential conductance on the order of 2e^{2}/h. At specific gate voltage settings, we find a magnetic-field-driven transition between a zero bias peak and a zero bias dip while the zero-bias conductance sticks close to 2e^{2}/h. We discuss a topologically trivial interpretation involving disorder, smooth potential variation and quasi-Majorana zero modes.

Objective: To identify and analyze the multi-slice computed tomography (MSCT) imaging manifestations and clinicopathological features of PSP to improve the preoperative and intraoperative diagnosis of the disease.Method: This was a retrospective study conducted on the imaging and clinicopathological data of the PSP patients treated in two major hospitals in China from October 2001 to December 2019. The locations of lung lesions, clinical symptoms, surgical complications, MSCT imaging features, and the corresponding relationship with clinicopathological features were assessed. Then, a new diagnostic approach was defined and used to train imaging and pathological doctors (experimental group). Then, the diagnostic accuracy of the experimental group was evaluated in preoperative and intraoperative diagnosis of PSP.Results: Thirty-four PSP cases were analyzed (mean: 51.42; range: 39–69 years old). The peripheral type was more common, while 92% of the lesions located in the middle lobe of the right lung and the lower lobe of bilateral lungs. The shortest lesion edge-pleura distance ranged 0 to 30 mm and 46% of the lesions (16/34) were attached to the pleura, 62% (21/34) located at 0–5 mm, 92% (31/34) within 20 mm from the pleura. Diameters of the lesions ranged 8.58 to 68.41 mm, while most of them were 20-40 mm. All lesions showed enhancement, and 97% (33/34) were unevenly enhanced. PSP volume was negatively correlated with the total degree of enhancement (r = −0.587, p < 0.01), and the volume difference between the obvious enhancement zone and the slight enhancement zone (r = −0.795, p < 0.01). Welt vessel sign was observed in 61.7% (21/34) of cases, and none of welt vessels entered into the lesions. Vascular-like enhancement area inside the lesion showed no significant correlation with the welt vessels outside the lesion, and no case showed entrance of bronchus into the lesion. The trained experimental group showed significantly greater diagnostic accuracy than the control group. In particular, the accuracy rate of intraoperative frozen section diagnosis was 60% higher in the experimental group than the control group.Conclusion: PSP has characteristic imaging manifestations, which can be utilized to improve the preoperative and intraoperative diagnostic coincidence rate of PSP.

Thioredoxin (TRX) is a small molecule protein that participates in the redox process and plays a decisive role in various functions of plants. However, the role of TRX in Medicago sativa (alfalfa), a widely cultivated perennial herb of legume, is still poorly understood. Here, we isolated MsTRX from alfalfa and determined the characteristics in improving salt tolerance by assaying the phenotype and physiological changes and the expression of stress-response genes in transgenic tobacco. The expression of MsTRX was similar in alfalfa roots, leaves, and inflorescences, and was downregulated in response to cold, drought, and salt treatment. The overexpression of MsTRX in tobacco promoted the accumulation of soluble sugar (SS) and proline; enhanced the activity of peroxidase (POD); and induced the upregulation of beta-amylase 1 (BAM1), lipid-transfer protein 1 (LTP1), candidate signal molecules/sensor relay proteins (CBSX3), superoxide dismutase [Cu-Zn] (Cu/Zn-SOD), superoxide dismutase [Mn] (Mn-SOD), protein gamma response 1 (GR1), dehydrin DHN1-like (ERD10B), and serine/threonine-protein kinase (SnRK2), as well as the downregulation of phyB activation-tagged suppressor1 (BAS1) and serine/threonine-protein kinase that phosphorylates LHCII protein 7 (STN7) under salt stress. These results indicated that MsTRX improves salt tolerance via maintaining osmotic homeostasis, scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS), and regulating the transcription of stress-response genes in plants. In our study, we provided a new understanding of how MsTRX improves salt stress in plants and how MsTRX can be included in future breeding programs to improve salt tolerance in alfalfa.

Objective This study was performed to compare the radiologic characteristics and pathological presentations of primary pulmonary lymphoma (PPL), explore the possible mechanism underlying its development, summarize its radiologic characteristics, and improve the accuracy of its diagnosis. Methods The medical records of 22 patients pathologically diagnosed with PPL were retrospectively analyzed. Results Chest computed tomography (CT) demonstrated single or multiple nodules and masses in the lungs, patchy opacities or consolidation along the bronchovascular bundle, and no significantly enlarged mediastinal or hilar lymph nodes. All 22 cases of PPL were classified as non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) by transbronchial biopsy, CT-guided needle biopsy, and postoperative pathology. Most (16 cases) were marginal-zone B-cell lymphomas of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT). Twelve patients had air bronchograms within the lesion, and 13 showed ill-defined lesions with ground-glass brush-like changes. Conclusion PPL is a rare lung tumor, and most are classified as MALT lymphoma, a subtype of NHL. Chest CT can help to diagnose this disease. Positron emission tomography (PET)/CT is of great clinical value for evaluation of the lesion and patient’s general condition. The possibility of PPL should be considered in patients with characteristic CT and PET/CT findings and mild clinical symptoms, and early treatment should be administered.

Background: Injuries from exposure to explosions rose dramatically during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, which motivated investigation of blast-related neurotrauma. We have undertaken human studies involving military “breachers” —exposed to controlled, low-level blast during a 3-days explosive breaching course.Methods: We screened epigenetic profiles in peripheral blood samples from 59 subjects (in two separate U.S. Military training sessions) using Infinium MethylationEPIC BeadChips. Participants had varying numbers of exposures to blast over their military careers (empirically defined as high ≥ 40, and conversely, low < 39 breaching exposures). Daily self-reported physiological symptoms were recorded. Tinnitus, memory problems, headaches, and sleep disturbances are most frequently reported.Results: We identified 14 significantly differentially methylated regions (DMRs) within genes associated with cumulative blast exposure in participants with high relative to low cumulative blast exposure. Notably, NTSR1 and SPON1 were significantly differentially methylated in high relative to low blast exposed groups, suggesting that sleep dysregulation may be altered in response to chronic cumulative blast exposure. In comparing lifetime blast exposure at baseline (prior to exposure in current training), and top associated symptoms, we identified significant DMRs associated with tinnitus, sleep difficulties, and headache. Notably, we identified KCNN3, SOD3, MUC4, GALR1, and WDR45B, which are implicated in auditory function, as differentially methylated associated with self-reported tinnitus. These findings suggest neurobiological mechanisms behind auditory injuries in our military warfighters and are particularly relevant given tinnitus is not only a primary disability among veterans, but has also been demonstrated in active duty medical records for populations exposed to blast in training. Additionally, we found that differentially methylated regions associated with the genes CCDC68 and COMT track with sleep difficulties, and those within FMOD and TNXB track with pain and headache.Conclusion: Sleep disturbances, as well as tinnitus and chronic pain, are widely reported in U.S. military service members and veterans. As we have previously demonstrated, DNA methylation encapsulates lifetime exposure to blast. The current data support previous findings and recapitulate transcriptional regulatory alterations in genes involved in sleep, auditory function, and pain. These data uncovered novel epigenetic and transcriptional regulatory mechanism underlying the etiological basis of these symptoms.

Microplastics (MPs), as a new type of pollution, could result in serious environmental pollution due to its special properties. Meanwhile, the damage of MPs to environment could be reflected by the MPs characteristics in sewage sludge, one of dominant sinks of MPs. Therefore, this study investigated the abundance and characteristics of MPs of sewage sludge derived from Yangling, Shaanxi province. Results showed that among of all detected MPs, the particle size ranged from 8 ​μm–1 ​mm, especially 8–400.00 ​μm, accounting for 97.27%. Moreover, the microplastics were dominantly in the shape of fragment in white. Additionally, 41.18% of the microplastics were identified as PVC, which led to higher risk index in Yangling. Furthermore, human density, human activities, environmental factors, and industrial types were responsible for the different details of microplastics in sewage sludge. Concluded from these results, more attention is supposed to pay on MPs pollution in Yangling zone.

The short and long-term neurological and psychological consequences of traumatic brain injury (TBI), and especially mild TBI (mTBI) are of immense interest to the Veteran community. mTBI is a common and detrimental result of combat exposure and results in various deleterious outcomes, including mood and anxiety disorders, cognitive deficits, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In the current study, we aimed to further define the behavioral and molecular effects of blast-related mTBI using a well-established (3 × 75 kPa, one per day on three consecutive days) repeated blast overpressure (rBOP) model in rats. We exposed adult male rats to the rBOP procedure and conducted behavioral tests for anxiety and fear conditioning at 1–1.5 months (sub-acute) or 12–13 months (chronic) following blast exposure. We also used next-generation sequencing to measure transcriptome-wide gene expression in the amygdala of sham and blast-exposed animals at the sub-acute and chronic time points. Results showed that blast-exposed animals exhibited an anxiety-like phenotype at the sub-acute timepoint but this phenotype was diminished by the chronic time point. Conversely, gene expression analysis at both sub-acute and chronic timepoints demonstrated a large treatment by timepoint interaction such that the most differentially expressed genes were present in the blast-exposed animals at the chronic time point, which also corresponded to a Bdnf-centric gene network. Overall, the current study identified changes in the amygdalar transcriptome and anxiety-related phenotypic outcomes dependent on both blast exposure and aging, which may play a role in the long-term pathological consequences of mTBI.

The immobilization of Thermomyces lanuginosus lipase on polydopamine-functionalized Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles (Fe3O4@PDA-TLL) as a nanobiocatalyst was successfully performed for the first time, and the Fe3O4@PDA-TLL was used for regioselective acylation of natural hyperoside with vinyl decanoate. The effects of several crucial factors, such as the reaction solvent, substrate molar ratio, temperature, and immobilized enzyme dosage, were investigated. Under optimum conditions, the reaction rate, 6″-regioselectivity, and maximum substrate conversion were as high as 12.6 mM/h, 100%, and 100%, respectively. An operational stability study demonstrated that the immobilized enzyme could maintain 90.1% of its initial maximum conversion even after reusing it five times. In addition, further investigations on the kinetic parameters, like Vmax, Km, Vmax/Km, and Ea, also revealed that the biocompatible Fe3O4@PDA could act as an alternative carrier for the immobilization of different enzymes.

WRKY transcription factors are involved in complex signalling processes that occur during stress responses. However, in contrast to the exploration of such mechanisms in model plants, far less research has focussed on the WRKY family in cotton. We previously identified GbWRKY1 in cotton (Gossypium barbadense), the expression of which is induced upon infection by Verticillium dahliae. Our current results indicate that this gene with three introns, has a group of cis-acting elements in its promoter that are associated with plant growth and development as well as responses to environmental stresses. Here, we used virus-induced gene silencing to characterize the role of GbWRKY1. Silencing in cotton simultaneously up-regulated salicylic acid (SA)-mediated responses and inhibited jasmonate (JA)-inducible and ethylene (ET)-inducible defences, resulting in an increased susceptibility to V. dahliae. However, when compared with wild-type Arabidopsis, transgenic plants exhibited more resistance to infection with V. dahliae. In the latter genotype, expression was increased for pathogen-related PR4 and ACS2, two genes involved in the JA pathway and ET biosynthesis, while expression of PR5, involved in the SA pathway, decreased after V. dahliae infection. Moreover, POD activity and lignin content related to ethylene synthesis in transgenic Arabidopsis were higher than those in wild-type Arabidopsis after V. dahliae infection. Collectively, these findings suggest that GbWRKY1 is regulated by signalling pathways for SA, JA and ET, and mainly involved in resistance to V. dahliae attack by ET signalling pathway the response. This highlights the importance of WRKYs in regulating pathogen-induced responses and plant development.

Highly efficient and regioselective synthesis of pharmacologically interesting aromatic esters of arbutin catalyzed by immobilized lipase from Penicillium expansum in co-solvent systems was successfully carried out. As compared to tetrahydrofuran solvent, the initial rate and substrate conversion of arbutin vanilylation were markedly enhanced in tetrahydrofuran-isopropyl ether (20%, v/v). Moreover, the effects of three reaction parameters (enzyme amount, temperature and substrate molar ratio of vinyl vanillic acid to arbutin) on 6′-O-vanilloyl-arbutin synthesis were scrutinized and the key process parameters were optimized using response surface methodology (RSM). The experimental data were fitted well to a second order polynomial model by using multiple regression analysis. The best combination of variables was 50°C, 93 U/mL and 11 for the reaction temperature, the enzyme amount and mole ratio of arbutin to vinyl vanilic acid, respectively, and which the reaction rate, substrate conversion and regioselectivity were as high as 8.2 mM/h, 93 and 99%. It was worth noting that a variety of aromatic esters of arbutin were obtained with much higher conversion (93–99%) at these optimal conditions.

In this study, relationships between low-level jet (LLJ) and low visibility associated with precipitation, air pollution, and fog in Tianjin are investigated based on observational data from January to December, 2016. Statistical results show 55% of precipitation is accompanied by LLJ, and two causes responsible for the relatively high percentage are presented. The result of case analysis shows that some southwesterly LLJs are favorable for the formation of precipitation by transporting water vapor when the water vapor channel from the South China Sea or Bengal Bay to Bohai Rim region is established. Statistical results show 55% of pollution episodes (PEs) are accompanied by LLJs. When pollutions are observed in the southern industrial regions, nocturnal southwesterly LLJ, which can carry polluted air masses from polluted regions to Tianjin and induce turbulent mixing, can enhance surface PM2.5 concentration and is favorable for the formation of surface pollution at night. Nocturnal northerly or southeasterly LLJ leads to clear air masses mixing with polluted air masses and is favorable for increasing visibility. Contributions of southwesterly LLJs to the formation of fog and precipitation are similar, which both rely on establishing the water vapor channel despite occurrence heights of LLJs being different.

With an increasing energy demand, exploration and utilization of new energy resources become more significant recently. Geothermal energy, characterized as a clean, renewable, and sustainable energy, has various engineering applications. Microbial-induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) technique has a potential to improve soil thermal properties for geothermal applications. In this study, thermal conductivity of dry sands treated using MICP technique with different treatment cycles was investigated in laboratory. The results showed that thermal conductivity of MICP-treated sands was much higher than that of the untreated sand under dry condition and it increased with increasing treatment cycles. Based on the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses, it is found MICP-induced CaCO3 crystals are being formed among sand particles functioned as “thermal bridge,” which provided more highly effective heat transfer path. It is concluded that the MICP technique could significantly improve the thermal conductivity of sands and the overall heat transfer efficiency. It is advantageous to use MICP-treated soils as enhanced grout materials for underground energy geostructures.

From November 2016 to January 2017, there were large-scale dense fog processes in Tianjin area on the west coast of Bohai Bay, China, even strong dense fog with visibility less than 50 m occurred. Based on the observation data of fog droplet spectrum monitor, visibility sensor, environmental particle monitoring equipment and meteorological automatic station, the characteristics of fog droplet size distribution and the interaction between the fog droplets and fine particles during dense fog events were analyzed. The results show following characteristics: (1) The average concentration of fog droplets (Na), the average liquid water content (La) and the maximum liquid water content (Lmax) in the strong dense fog process are larger than those in the dense fog. The average spectrum of fog droplet size distribution conforms to Junge distribution, and they are all broad-spectrum fog with a spectrum width of about 45 μm. The average spectrum is similar to the dense fog of heavily industrialized inland in the world. (2) The maximum of fog droplet diameter during the formation stage have a good indication for the outbreak of strong dense fog. (3) The mass concentration of PM2.5 (CPM2.5) is ranged from 121−375 μg/m3, and the interaction between fog droplets and fine particles is analyzed. During the formation, development and maturity stages, fog process can scavenge atmospheric fine particles, and the scavenging efficiency of PM2.5 is more remarkable than PM10. When CPM2.5 does not exceed 350 μg/m3, the increase in the concentration of fine particles is conducive to the rapid growth of fog droplets and the sharp drop of visibility. However, when CPM2.5 exceeds the critical value, the increase has a negative feedback effect on the development of the fog process. More investigations and cases are necessary to fully assess the mechanisms related to the dense fog events in Tianjin area and further analysis will be done.

Wind erosion phenomenon is commonly encountered in desert areas, which is harmful to engineering constructions and environment. This study proposed an innovative microbial-induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) technique to reinforce sands for mitigating natural hazards caused by the wind erosion. A series of small-scale laboratory experiments were performed to evaluate wind erosion resistance of MICP-treated sands with different treatment cycles. The spraying method was used to treat sand specimens, and unconfined compression (UCC) strength tests were also conducted to assess the performance of the MICP technique. Experimental results revealed that the bulk density of treated sand was slightly increased with the number of MICP treatment cycles. Additionally, the wind erosion rate of treated sands was significantly decreased, and the UCC strength was increased (maximum to 4 MPa) with the number of treatment cycles, which was mainly attributed to the bonding effect from the microbial-induced CaCO3 crystals among sand particles based on the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses. Such effect also facilitated to form a hard protection layer on top of the sand specimen in order to improve the wind erosion resistance of MICP-treated sands. This technique provides an alternative method to mitigate and prevent the aggravation of desertification.

Mutations modification enzymes including the tRNA N7-methylguanosine (m7G) methyltransferase complex component WDR4 were frequently found in patients with neural disorders, while the pathogenic mechanism and therapeutic intervention strategies are poorly explored. In this study, we revealed that patient-derived WDR4 mutation leads to temporal and cell-type-specific neural degeneration, and directly causes neural developmental disorders in mice. Mechanistically, WDR4 point mutation disrupts the interaction between WDR4 and METTL1 and accelerates METTL1 protein degradation. We further uncovered that impaired tRNA m7G modification caused by Wdr4 mutation decreases the mRNA translation of genes involved in mTOR pathway, leading to elevated endoplasmic reticulum stress markers, and increases neural cell apoptosis. Importantly, treatment with stress-attenuating drug Tauroursodeoxycholate (TUDCA) significantly decreases neural cell death and improves neural functions of the Wdr4 mutated mice. Moreover, adeno-associated virus mediated transduction of wild-type WDR4 restores METTL1 protein level and tRNA m7G modification in the mouse brain, and achieves long-lasting therapeutic effect in Wdr4 mutated mice. Most importantly, we further demonstrated that both TUDCA treatment and WDR4 restoration significantly improve the survival and functions of human iPSCs-derived neuron stem cells that harbor the patient's WDR4 mutation. Overall, our study uncovers molecular insights underlying WDR4 mutation in the pathogenesis of neural diseases and develops two promising therapeutic strategies for treatment of neural diseases caused by impaired tRNA modifications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Degeneracy and symmetry have a profound relation in quantum systems. Here, we report gate-tunable subband degeneracy in PbTe nanowires with a nearly symmetric cross-sectional shape. The degeneracy is revealed in electron transport by the absence of a quantized plateau. Utilizing a dual gate design, we can apply an electric field to lift the degeneracy, reflected as emergence of the plateau. This degeneracy and its tunable lifting were challenging to observe in previous nanowire experiments, possibly due to disorder. Numerical simulations can qualitatively capture our observation, shedding light on device parameters for future applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The silk commerce comprises a significant section of the classical economy, yet its initial nature and process along the various trade routes remain largely unexplored. Therefore, this paper endeavors to delineate the primary stage of long-distance silk trade, with the objective of revealing a vital interconnection between the Roman Empire and the Han Dynasties at opposite ends of the known world from a mercantile perspective. Starting from the discussion of the relation between the ethnic designation Seres and its alternative meaning of silk, this paper identifies the earliest references to silk in Greco-Roman literature. Subsequently, it demonstrates the evolution and dynamic transformations from the primary northern steppe silk routes to a southern maritime horizon. In addition to the fundamental Greek and Latin sources that offer insight into the condition of the silk trade in its western terminus, records in the Hanshu and the Houhanshu describe the eastern leg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite substantial interest in applications of neural networks to information retrieval, neural ranking models have mostly been applied to conventional ad-hoc retrieval tasks over web pages and newswire articles. This article proposes a concept-enhanced pre-training model for microblog retrieval task, leveraging Semantic Matching Model (SMM) objective and Concept Correlation Model (CCM) objective. The proposed model is a novel neural ranking model specifically designed for ranking short-text microblog, which could merge the advantage of pre-training methodology for generating valid contextualized embedding with the superiority of the prior lexical knowledge (e.g., concept knowledge) for understanding short-text language semantic. We conduct experiments on widely used real-world datasets, and the experimental results demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed model, even compared with latest state-of-the-art neural-based models and pretraining based models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]