Search

Background: Cancer screening is a pivotal method for reducing mortality from disease, but the screening coverage is still lower than expected. Telehealth interventions demonstrated significant benefits in cancer care, yet there is currently no consensus on their impact on facilitating cancer screening or on the most effective remote technology. Design: A network meta‐analysis was conducted to detect the impact of telehealth interventions on cancer screening and to identify the most effective teletechnologies. Methods: Six English databases were searched from inception until July 2023 to yield relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Two individual authors completed the literature selection, data extraction, and methodological evaluations using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. Traditional pairwise analysis and network meta‐analysis were performed to identify the overall effects and compare different teletechnologies. Results: Thirty‐four eligible RCTs involving 131,644 participants were enrolled. Overall, telehealth interventions showed statistically significant effects on the improvement of cancer screening. Subgroup analyses revealed that telehealth interventions were most effective for breast and cervical cancer screening, and rural populations also experienced benefits, but there was no improvement in screening for older adults. The network meta‐analysis indicated that mobile applications, video plus telephone, and text message plus telephone were associated with more obvious improvements in screening than other teletechnologies. Conclusion: Our study identified that telehealth interventions were effective for the completion of cancer screening and clarified the exact impact of telehealth on different cancer types, ages, and rural populations. Mobile applications, video plus telephone, and text message plus telephone are the three forms of teletechnologies most likely to improve cancer screening. More well‐designed RCTs involving direct comparisons of different teletechnologies are needed in the future. Clinical Relevance: Telehealth interventions should be encouraged to facilitate cancer screening, and the selection of the optimal teletechnology based on the characteristics of the population is also necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Innate/adaptive immunity is the key to anti-tumor therapy. However, its causal relationship to Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer remains unclear. Methods: Immunity genes were extracted from the MSigDB database. The Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) summary data of GI cancer were integrated with expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) and DNA methylation quantitative trait loci (mQTL) associated with genes. Summary-data-based Mendelian randomization (SMR) and co-localization analysis were used to reveal causal relationships between genes and GI cancer. Two-sample MR analysis was used for sensitivity analysis. Single cell analysis clarified the enrichment of genes. Results: Three-step SMR analysis showed that a putative mechanism, cg17294865 CpG site regulating HLA-DRA expression was negatively associated with gastric cancer risk. HLA-DRA was significantly differentially expressed in monocyte/macrophage and myeloid cells in gastric cancer. Conclusion: This study provides evidence that upregulating the expression level of HLA-DRA can reduce the risk of gastric cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, M-protein, and skin changes (POEMS) syndrome is a rare plasma cell (PC) neoplasm with associated paraneoplastic syndrome. According to the current diagnostic criteria, peripheral polyneuropathy and monoclonal PC proliferative disorder represent two mandatory criteria. Case presentation: We report a 54-year-old male with peripheral neuropathy of bilateral lower limbs, sclerotic bone lesions, elevated vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels, splenomegaly, extravascular volume overload, endocrinopathy, and skin hemangiomas. Of note, serum and urine protein electrophoresis (PEP) and immunofixation electrophoresis (IFE) of this patient indicated undetectable M-protein and the normal ratio of free light chains κ and λ (FLC-R (κ/λ)). No monoclonal PCs were found in bone marrow examinations or biopsy of diseased bones. However, his clinical manifestations matched most of the diagnostic criteria. After excluding other diseases that are easily confused with POEMS syndrome, the diagnosis of variant POEMS syndrome with undetectable M-protein was proposed. The patient obtained clinically significant improvement and elevated VEGF returned to normal after 6 months of treatment with lenalidomide plus dexamethasone. Conclusions: Monoclonal PC dyscrasia (M-protein) while being a mandatory criterion for POEMS syndrome is undetectable in a considerable amount of patients that otherwise demonstrate typical symptoms. Here, we reported a case of variant POEMS syndrome with featured clinical manifestations, elevated VEGF levels, and good response to therapies targeting PCs but no evidence of M-protein. Therefore, negative results in M-protein and monoclonal PCs aren't enough to reject the diagnosis of POEMS syndrome. It is imperative to recognize the variant form of POEMS syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A facile solid‐state approach is employed to synthesize a novel magnetoplumbite‐type oxide of NdMgAl11O19, which integrates spinel‐stacking layers (MgAl2O4) with Nd‐O6 mirror plane structures. The resulting NdMgAl11O19 exhibits remarkable catalytic activity and conversion efficiency during the sulfur reduction reaction (SRR) in lithium‐sulfur batteries. By employing the 2D projection mapping technique of in situ confocal Raman spectroscopy and electrochemical technique, it is discovered that the exposed mirror plane structure of Nd‐O6 can effectively suppress the undesiring disproportionation reaction (S82−→S62−+1/4 S8) of long‐chain lithium polysulfides at the initial stages of sulfur reduction, thereby promoting the positive process of sulfur to lithium sulfide. This not only mitigates the issue of sulfur shuttle loss but also significantly improve the kinetics of the conversion process. Leveraging these advantages, the NdMgAl11O19/S cathode delivered an impressive initial capacity of up to 1398 mAh g−1 at an electrolyte/sulfur (E/S) ratio of 5.1 µL mg−1 and a sulfur loading of 2.3 mg cm−2. Even when the sulfur loading is increased to 10.02 mg cm−2, the cathode retained a reversible areal capacity of 10.01 mAh cm−2 after 200 cycles. This mirror engineering strategy provides valuable and universal insights into enhancing the efficiency of cathodes in Li‐S battery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study provides insight into the cyclic behavior of unreinforced and geogrid-reinforced coral sand. To achieve these goals, stress-controlled undrained cyclic triaxial tests were conducted on medium-dense coral sand with and without geogrid reinforcements. The influence of geogrid reinforcement, cyclic stress ratios, and confining pressure on the deformation, pore pressure, liquefaction resistance, stiffness degradation, and particle breakage characteristics of saturated coral sand was investigated. The results indicated that coral sand reinforced with geogrid increased the liquefaction resistance and decreased the rate of pore pressure accumulation. The effectiveness of the geogrid inclusion on coral sand's liquefaction resistance was found to be more pronounced under large effective confining pressure and a smaller cyclic stress ratio. Increasing the effective confining pressure increases the liquefaction resistance for both unreinforced and geogrid-reinforced coral sand, whereas increasing the cyclic stress ratios decreases the liquefaction resistance of the unreinforced and reinforced coral sand. The particle breakage was observed to be increased with increasing the effective confining pressure and cyclic stress ratio, and the breakage was more in the reinforced coral sand than the unreinforced coral sand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the feasibility of geogrid reinforcement as a promising countermeasure to improve the liquefaction and post-liquefaction resistance of calcareous sand, extensive undrained monotonic and multi-stage triaxial tests were performed on unreinforced and geogrid reinforced calcareous sand with different relative densities. The test results illustrate that pore pressure generation curves of unreinforced and reinforced calcareous sand gradually evolve from S-shaped to hyperbolic-shaped with the increase in relative density, cyclic stress ratio, and effective confining pressure. Following this, a pore pressure model applicable to both unreinforced and reinforced calcareous sand is proposed. The liquefaction resistance of calcareous sand increases with the increase in relative density, whereas an elevated cyclic stress ratio increases its liquefaction susceptibility. A virtually unique relationship can be observed between the liquefaction resistance normalized to the product of phase transformation strength ratio and relative density against the number of cycles for triggering liquefaction, providing an effective means of early assessing sand liquefaction resistance. Moreover, the geogrid exhibits excellent reinforcement efficiency in enhancing the liquefaction resistance of calcareous sand at relative densities of 50% and 70%. During the post-liquefaction stage, increasing relative density and geogrid reinforcement can accelerate the recovery of stiffness and strength for liquefied calcareous sand and improve the post-liquefaction strength. In general, geogrid reinforcement is considered a good alternative to densification for improving the engineering properties of calcareous sand and offers great application prospects in marine engineering construction. • The effects of geogrid reinforcement and relative density on the liquefaction and post-liquefaction behaviors of calcareous sand are investigated. • A pore pressure model applicable to both unreinforced and reinforced calcareous sand is proposed. • The inclusion of geogrid enhances the liquefaction resistance of calcareous sand. • Increasing relative density and geogrid reinforcement accelerate the recovery of stiffness and strength for liquefied calcareous sand and improve the shear strength during the post-liquefaction stage. • Geogrid reinforcement is considered a good alternative to densification for improving the engineering properties of calcareous sand and offers great application prospects in marine engineering construction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Quality of life research can guide clinical workers to adopt more targeted treatment and intervention measures, so as to achieve the purpose of improving patients' quality of life. The objective of this study was to evaluate health-related quality of life in Chinese patients with cervical cancer and to explore its influencing factors. Methods: A total of 186 patients with cervical cancer were investigated by using the QLICP-CE (V2.0) scale (Quality of Life Instruments for Cancer Patients-Cervical Cancer) developed by our group in China. The data were analyzed by t-test, one-way ANOVA, univariate analysis, and multivariate linear regression. Results: The total score of quality of life scale for cervical cancer patients was (62.58 ± 12.69), Univariate analysis of objective clinical indexes showed that creatinine concentration was a negative influence factor in the psychological domain, potassium ion concentration was a negative influence factor in the common symptoms and side effect domain, erythrocyte content was a positive influence factor physical domain and common general domain. Multiple linear regression results suggested that clinical staging was the influencing factor of common symptom and side effect domain, common general module and total score of scale. Marital status has different degrees of influence on the psychological, social, and common general domains. The level of education also influenced scores in the social domain. Conclusion: The total score of quality of life in patients with cervical cancer who received active treatment was acceptable. Marital status, clinical staging, and educational level are the factors that affect the quality of life of patients with cervical cancer. At the same time, potassium ion concentration, red blood cell count and creatinine concentration also have important effects on quality of life in patients with cervical cancer. Therefore, it is very important to give personalized treatment and nursing to patients based on various factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we consider the Cauchy problem for a three-component Novikov system on the line. We give a construction of the initial data (ρ 0 , u 0 , v 0) ∈ B p , ∞ σ − 1 (R) × B p , ∞ σ (R) × B p , ∞ σ (R) with σ > max 3 + 1 p , 7 2 , 1 ≤ p ≤ ∞ , such that the corresponding solution to the three-component Novikov system starting from (ρ 0 , u 0 , v 0) is discontinuous at t = 0 in the metric of B p , ∞ σ − 1 (R) × B p , ∞ σ (R) × B p , ∞ σ (R) , which implies the ill-posedness for this system in B p , ∞ σ − 1 (R) × B p , ∞ σ (R) × B p , ∞ σ (R) . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study the vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) photodissociation dynamics of carbonyl sulfide (OCS) by using the time sliced velocity map ion imaging technique. Experimental images of the dissociative O (3PJ=0,1,2) products were acquired at five VUV photolysis wavelengths from 133.26 to 139.96 nm that correspond to the F Rydberg state of OCS. High vibrational states of the carbon monosulfide (CS) co-products are partially resolved in the images. The product total kinetic energy releases, angular distributions, and the product state branching ratios were derived from the experimental images. Notably, it is found that the anisotropic parameters change systematically with the photolysis wavelength. The anisotropic parameters and the product state branching ratios are significantly sensitive to the J quantum number of the O (3PJ) products. The phenomenon indicates that multiple nonadiabatic pathways are strongly involved in the photodissociation processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The improvement of the Total Isomerization Process (TIP) for the production of high‐quality gasoline with the ultimate goal of reaching a Research Octane Number (RON) higher than 92 requires the use of specific sorbents to separate pentane and hexane isomers into classes of linear, mono‐ and di‐branched isomers. Herein we report the design of a new multi‐cage microporous Fe(III)‐MOF (referred to as MIP‐214, MIP stands for materials of the Institute of Porous Materials of Paris) with a flu‐e topology, incorporating an asymmetric heterofunctional ditopic ligand, 4‐pyrazolecarboxylic acid, that exhibits an appropriate microporous structure for a thermodynamic‐controlled separation of hydrocarbon isomers. This MOF produced via a direct, scalable, and mild synthesis route was proven to encompass a unique separation of C5/C6 isomers by classes of low RON over high RON alkanes with a sorption hierarchy: (n‐hexane≫n‐pentane≈2‐methylpentane>3‐methylpentane)low RON≫(2,3‐dimethylbutane≈i‐pentane≈2,2‐dimethylbutane)high RON following the adsorption enthalpy sequence. We reveal for the first time that a single sorbent can efficiently separate such a complex mixture of high RON di‐branched hexane and mono‐branched pentane isomers from their low RON counterparts, which is a major achievement reported so far. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The improvement of the Total Isomerization Process (TIP) for the production of high‐quality gasoline with the ultimate goal of reaching a Research Octane Number (RON) higher than 92 requires the use of specific sorbents to separate pentane and hexane isomers into classes of linear, mono‐ and di‐branched isomers. Herein we report the design of a new multi‐cage microporous Fe(III)‐MOF (referred to as MIP‐214, MIP stands for materials of the Institute of Porous Materials of Paris) with a flu‐e topology, incorporating an asymmetric heterofunctional ditopic ligand, 4‐pyrazolecarboxylic acid, that exhibits an appropriate microporous structure for a thermodynamic‐controlled separation of hydrocarbon isomers. This MOF produced via a direct, scalable, and mild synthesis route was proven to encompass a unique separation of C5/C6 isomers by classes of low RON over high RON alkanes with a sorption hierarchy: (n‐hexane≫n‐pentane≈2‐methylpentane>3‐methylpentane)low RON≫(2,3‐dimethylbutane≈i‐pentane≈2,2‐dimethylbutane)high RON following the adsorption enthalpy sequence. We reveal for the first time that a single sorbent can efficiently separate such a complex mixture of high RON di‐branched hexane and mono‐branched pentane isomers from their low RON counterparts, which is a major achievement reported so far. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dependency links represent the relationships between network nodes that have an interactive impact on cascading failures caused by load fluctuation in the network. However, existing research mainly focuses on load fluctuation's failure mechanisms without considering the dependency links of nodes and their cascading prevention mechanisms in reality. This study addresses the cascading prevention problem in networks when dependency links and connectivity links operate together. It proposes a hybrid cascading failure model based on the dependency relationships, load fluctuation and reinforced nodes. Furthermore, it provides four reinforced nodes' strategies that leverage static and local information characteristics of network nodes. These strategies help the network to perform its function and prevent cascading failures effectively. The study considers actual situations where overloaded nodes can still maintain their function. To measure the overload ability and the uncertainty of node failure, the authors used the overload coefficient parameter and the failure probability. Additionally, the impact of the dependency group's size on the network robustness is explored. Simulation results on BA and ER networks and two actual networks show that reinforced nodes' strategies provide significant support in keeping the network away from abrupt collapses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The processing of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) plays an important role in the clinical application, which usually has the function of "increasing efficiency and reducing toxicity". Polygonum multiflorum (PM) has been reported to induce hepatotoxicity, while it is believed that the toxicity is reduced after processing. Studies have shown that the hepatotoxicity of PM is closely related to the changes in chemical components before and after processing. However, there is no comprehensive investigation on the chemical changes of PM during the processing progress. In this research, we established a comprehensive method to profile both small molecule compounds and polysaccharides from raw and different processed PM samples. In detail, an online two-dimensional liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole-orbitrap mass spectrometry (2D-LC/Q-Orbitrap MS) was utilized to investigate the small molecules, and a total of 150 compounds were characterized successfully. After multivariate statistical analysis, 49 differential compounds between raw and processed products were screened out. Furthermore, an accurate and comprehensive method for quantification of differential compounds in PM samples was established based on ultra-high performance liquid chromatography/Q-Orbitrap-MS (UHPLC/Q-Orbitrap-MS) within 16 min. In addition, the changes of polysaccharides in different PM samples were analyzed, and it was found that the addition of black beans and steaming times would affect the content and composition of polysaccharides in PM significantly. Our work provided a reference basis for revealing the scientific connotation of the processing technology and increasing the quality control and safety of PM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The digital economy is a new impetus to promote high-quality economic development. We use the policies of Zhejiang Information Economy Development Demonstration Base (IEDD) and Zhejiang Software and Information Service Industry Base (SISI) established between 2015 and 2017 to design a quasi-natural experiment. By using a panel data from 2005 to 2020 in Zhejiang and the difference-in-differences model, we test the impacts of IEDD and SISI policies on digital economy development. We find that there are significant spatial differences for digital economy in Zhejiang. IEDD and SISI policies improve the digital economy development, that is, the policy advantages can indeed be transformed into industrial advantages. The IEDD policy can promote the digital economy industry development by enhancing the digital infrastructure and financial development; SISI policy can promote the development of the digital economy industry by promoting financial development. The results of quantile regression show that the promotion effect of IEDD and SISI policies increases with the improvement of the industrial basis of regional digital economy. The results of group regression show that the IEDD policy promotes the digital economy development in counties and county-level cities of Zhejiang, and the SISI policy plays a significant role in municipal districts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this current work, a sequential extended Kalman filter (EKF) algorithm is proposed to solve the quandary of regional accuracy disparity for time difference of arrival (TDOA) positioning in passive radar. The proposed approach entails merging the complete set of active radar observation data with the TDOA data of passive radar in a serial fashion, followed by the deployment of the EKF algorithm for the purpose of filtering. The simulation results show that the proposed data fusion method effectively solves the regional accuracy imbalance problem caused by the fuzzy area and no solution area of the TDOA positioning solution through the conflation of the precision merits of active and passive radar, and improves the overall target detection accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This cross-sectional study examined the socio-ecological factors influencing fundamental motor skills (FMS) in Chinese school-aged children. Methods: A total of 1012 parent-child pairs were randomly sampled between March-1st and April-15th, 2022. Based on the socio-ecological model of Children's FMS, three levels of factors: individual-level (e.g., demographic, physical, psychological, and behavioral characteristics of children), family-level (e.g., caregiver demographics, parental support, and socioeconomic status), and environmental factors (e.g., availability of physical activity equipment) were assessed using self-reported scales (e.g., the Self-perception Profile for Children, the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale, and the 12-item Psychological Well-Being Scale for Children) and objective measures (e.g., ActiGraph GT3X, the Chinese National Student Physical Fitness Standard, and the Test of Gross Motor Development-Third Edition). Multi-level regression models were employed using SPSS. Results: The results demonstrated that children's age, sex, physical fitness, parental support, and the quality of home and community physical activity environments consistently influenced all three types of FMS, including locomotor, ball, and composite skills. Additionally, seven individual-level factors (children's age, sex, body mass index, light physical activity, sleep duration, perceived motor competence, and physical fitness) were associated with different types of FMS. Conclusions: The findings underscore the multidimensional and complex nature of FMS development, with individual-level factors playing a particularly significant role. Future research should adopt rigorous longitudinal designs, comprehensive assessment tools covering various FMS skills, and objective measurement of parents' movement behaviors to better understand the strength and direction of the relationship between socio-ecological factors and children's FMS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plasmonic nanostructures that generate hot carriers and induce catalytic chemical transformations are ideal candidates for solar energy utilization. However, the existing nanostructures require multistep synthesis procedures and generate fewer hot carriers due to their narrow resonance region and limited hotspots, restricting their usage in plasmonic catalysis. Inspired by the light‐harvesting behavior of the trees, the current work reports a one‐step fabrication strategy via electrodeposition for direct anisotropic growth of the 3D gold nanotrees with tunable size, branches, and height. The as‐synthesized nanostructures with broadband light absorption and plentiful hotspots can significantly foster hot carrier generation. The improved hot electron generation of 3D gold nanotrees is confirmed by in situ surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy for the dimerization reaction of 4‐nitrothiophenol. The energetic hot holes generated by the 3D gold nanotrees facilitate water oxidation and exhibit 18.6 times higher catalytic efficiency than Au film under 625 nm. Meanwhile, the photoelectrochemical catalysis of 3D gold nanotrees shows better performance compared with conventional Au nanospheres. This work opens up a promising avenue for fundamental studies of plasmonic catalysis via a wide variety of 3D gold nanotrees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colossal permittivity (CP) materials show an attractive potential application in field of integrating circuit and medical equipment owing to ultrahigh permittivity. Herein, a good CP performance (ɛ>104, tan δ < 0.1, 1 kHz) and insulation performance (E b > 2 kV/cm) have been realized in (Zn 1/2 W 1/2) x (Zn 1/3 Nb 2/3) 0.01- x Ti 0.99 O 2 ceramics (ZWNTO x) at x = 0.25 %. Both the electrons pinned defect dipoles (EPDD) and internal barrier layer capacitance (IBLC) effect can be considered as the CP mechanism of ZWNTO x ceramics. Besides, the overall resistance is improved as increasing x contents are accompanied by decreasing of oxygen vacancies concentration in ceramics, which should be excited by formation of Zn2+-W6+ ion pairs. At same time, the point defects induced by Zn2+, Nb5+ ions ensure a high permittivity and a low dielectric loss of ZWNTO x ceramics. The co-existence of multiple defective structures has been exploited to jointly optimize dielectric performance and insulation performance in ceramics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon-coated copper nanocrystals (CuNCs) with peroxidase-like activity were hydrothermally prepared by using copper acetate, citric acid (CA) and histidine (His) as the precursors. Various shaped CuNCs, including urchin-like, slab-like and spherical appearance were facilely prepared by addition of different amount of NaNO2 in the precursor solutions. When 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) was used as the substrate, the CuNCs with urchin-like appearance have greatest peroxidase-like activity and their Michaelis–Menten constant (Km) and the maximum rate constant (νmax) are respectively 8.8 and 1.2 times higher than that obtained from horseradish peroxidase (HRP). The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was confirmed by radical quenching and electron spin resonance (ESR) tests. Subsequent studies have found that the CuNCs catalyzed color reaction of TMB can be selectively quenched by the environmental pollutant 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine (2,4-DNPH). Thus a new colorimetric method for the determination of 2,4-DNPH with a linear range of 0.60–20 µM was developed and a limit of detection (LOD) as low as 0.166 µM was achieved. The results obtained not only reveal the tunability of the peroxidase-like activity of Cu-based nanomaterials, but also provide a new method for the sensitive determination of environmental contaminate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, all-inorganic perovskite quantum dots (QDs) for pure blue emission are explored for full-color displays. We prepared CsPbBr3 and Cs3NdCl6 QDs via hot injection methods and mixed in various ratios at room temperature for color blending. Nd-doped CsPb(Cl/Br)3 QDs showed a blueshift in emission, and the photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQY, ΦPL) were lower in the 460–470 nm range due to surface halogen and Cs vacancies. To address this, we introduced a silane molecule, APTMS, via a ligand exchange process, effectively repairing these vacancies and enhancing Nd doping into the lattice. This modification promotes the PLQY to 94% at 466 nm. Furthermore, combining these QDs with [1]Benzothieno[3,2-b][1]benzothiophene (BTBT), a conjugated small-molecule semiconductor, in a composite film reduced PLQY loss caused by FRET in solid-state QD films. This approach achieved a wide color gamut of 124% National Television System Committee (NTSC), using a UV LED backlight and RGB perovskite QDs in a BTBT-based organic matrix as the color conversion layer. Significantly, the photostability of this composite was enhanced when used as a color conversion layer (CCL) under blue-LED excitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Short-rib polydactyly syndrome (SRPS) refers to a group of lethal skeletal dysplasias that can be difficult to differentiate between subtypes or from other non-lethal skeletal dysplasias such as Ellis-van Creveld syndrome and Jeune syndrome in a prenatal setting. We report the ultrasound and genetic findings of four unrelated fetuses with skeletal dysplasias. Methods: Systemic prenatal ultrasound examination was performed in the second or third trimester. Genetic tests including GTG-banding, single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array and exome sequencing were performed with amniocytes or aborted fetal tissues. Results: The major and common ultrasound anomalies for the four unrelated fetuses included short long bones of the limbs and narrow thorax. No chromosomal abnormalities and pathogenic copy number variations were detected. Exome sequencing revealed three novel variants in the DYNC2H1 gene, namely NM_001080463.2:c.6809G > A p.(Arg2270Gln), NM_001080463.2:3133C > T p.(Gln1045Ter), and NM_001080463.2:c.337C > T p.(Arg113Trp); one novel variant in the IFT172 gene, NM_015662.3:4540-5 T > A; and one novel variant in the WDR19 gene, NM_025132.4:c.2596G > C p.(Gly866Arg). The genotypes of DYNC2H1, IFT172 and WDR19 and the phenotypes of the fetuses give hints for the diagnosis of short-rib thoracic dysplasia (SRTD) with or without polydactyly 3, 10, and 5, respectively. Conclusion: Our findings expand the mutation spectrum of DYNC2H1, IFT172 and WDR19 associated with skeletal ciliopathies, and provide useful information for prenatal diagnosis and genetic counseling on rare skeletal disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to explore the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic alterations of the active components of Shenkang injection (i.e. hydroxy saffron yellow pigment A [HSYA], tanshinol, rheum emodin, and astragaloside IV) in rats with chronic renal failure (CRF), and establish a pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic model (PK‐PD model) in order to provide a scientific and theoretical basis for the rational clinical use of Shenkang injection. Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into a normal group, model group, and Shenkang injection group. A rat model of CRF was induced by adenine gavage and then followed by drug administration via tail vein injection. Orbital blood was collected at different timepoints and the blood concentrations of the four active components were measured by UHPLC‐Q‐Orbitrap HRMS. Serum levels of creatinine (Scr), urea nitrogen (BUN), and uric acid (UA) were determined using an automatic biochemical analyzer. A PK‐PD model was established, and DAS 3.2.6 software was used for model fitting as well as statistical analysis. TGF‐β1 was utilized to induce normal rat kidney cells to construct a renal fibrosis model to investigate the protective effect of the pharmacological components on renal fibrosis. The pharmacokinetic analysis of hydroxy saffron yellow pigment A, tanshinol, rheum emodin, and astragaloside IV based on UHPLC‐Q‐Orbitrap HRMS was stable. The linear regression equations for the four active components were as follows: Y = 0.031X + 0.0091 (R2 = 0.9986) for hydroxy saffron yellow pigment A, Y = 0.0389X + 0.164 (R2 = 0.9979) for tanshinol, Y = 0.0257X + 0.0146 (R2 = 0.9973) for rheum emodin, and Y = 0.0763X + 0.0139 (R2 = 0.9993) for astragaloside IV, which indicated good linear relationships. The methodological investigation was stable, with the interday and intraday precision RSD <10%. Meanwhile, the recoveries ranged between 90% and 120%, in accordance with the requirements for in vivo analysis of drugs. Compared with the model group, the levels of Scr, BUN, and UA were significantly decreased after 20 min in the Shenkang injection group (p < 0.01). The PK‐PD model showed that the four active components in the Shenkang injection group could fit well with the three effect measures (i.e. Scr, BUN, and UA), with the measured values similar to the predicted values. The cell model of renal fibrosis showed that the connective tissue growth factor and FN1 protein expression levels were significantly lower in the Shenkang injection group than those in the model group, and the cell fibrosis was improved. The established method for in vivo analysis of Shenkang injection was highly specific, with good separation of the components and simple operation. The total statistical moment could well integrate the pharmacokinetic parameters of the four active components. After treatment with Shenkang injection, all indexes in the administered group improved and showed significant inhibition of renal cell fibrosis in vitro. This study could provide scientific reference ideas for the clinical rational use of traditional Chinese medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The application of vonoprazan significantly improved the eradication rate of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). This study aimed to compare efficacy and safety of the 10-day vonoprazan–amoxicillin (VA) and 14-day rabeprazole–amoxicillin (RA) dual therapy, and to provide a more efficient, safer, and convenient dual regimen for H. pylori infection. Methods: This was a prospective, open-label, multi-center, randomized controlled study of treatment-naive patients with H. pylori infection. The participants were randomly assigned to the 10-day VA group with vonoprazan 20 mg Bid plus amoxicillin 1 g Tid or the 14-day RA group with rabeprazole 10 mg Tid plus amoxicillin 1 g Tid. The effectiveness, the adverse events, and the patient compliance of the two groups were compared. Results: A total of 690 patients were enrolled. The eradication rates of 10-day VA and 14-day RA dual therapy were 89.3% and 84.9% in intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis (P = 0.088); 90.6% and 85.9% by modified intention-to-treat (mITT) analysis (P = 0.059); 91.4% and 86.6% by per-protocol (PP) analysis (P = 0.047). Non-inferiority was confirmed between the two groups (all P < 0.001). No discernible differences were observed in adverse effects and compliance between groups. Poor compliance reduced the eradication efficacy (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The 10-day VA dual therapy was non-inferior to the 14-day RA dual therapy for H. pylori treatment-naive patients, which should be given priority in the first-line treatment. The application of vonoprazan reduced treatment course and antibiotic use. Patients' adherence was crucial for the success of eradication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human satellite cells (HuSCs) have been deemed to be the potential cure to treat muscular atrophy diseases such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy. However, the clinical trials of HuSCs were restricted to the inadequacy of donors because of that freshly isolated HuSCs quickly lost the Pax7 expression and myogenesis capacity in vivo after a few days of culture. Here we found that oleanic acid, a kind of triterpenoid endowed with diverse biological functions with treatment potential, could efficiently promote HuSCs proliferation. The HuSCs cultured in the medium supplement with oleanic acid could maintain a high expression level of Pax7 and retain the ability to differentiate into myotubes as well as facilitate muscle regeneration in injured muscles of recipient mice. We further revealed that Tenascin-C acts as the core mechanism to activate the EGFR signaling pathway followed by HuSCs proliferation. Taken together, our data provide an efficient method to expand functional HuSCs and a novel mechanism that controls HuSCs proliferation, which sheds light on the HuSCs-based therapy to treat muscle diseases. [Display omitted] • Oleanic acid could efficiently promote HuSCs proliferation. • Oleanic acid-cultured HuSCs retain the ability to differentiate into functional myotubes. • Oleanic acid induces Tenascin-C and EGFR signaling pathway followed by HuSCs proliferation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study introduces a novel parcel locker location problem in the last mile delivery where each parcel locker is equipped with a set of selectable volume sizes and provides services for two types of customers: commuters and home-based customers. We establish a pickup cost model to quantify the effort exerted by customers during the retrieval process. Furthermore, we design a satisfaction function to measure customers’ willingness to retrieve items from a specific parcel locker. Finally, we implement a financial incentive mechanism to enhance customer satisfaction by reducing the pickup cost. To solve this problem, we formulate a problem-specific scatter search algorithm. Extensive experiments demonstrate the computational effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. Furthermore, sensitivity analyses show that the selectable volume size model can reduce the total cost by up to 16.8%, while “pickup on the way” can achieve a reduction of up to 63.97% in our instances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, firstly, the effects of graphene oxide on the mechanical properties of concrete were investigated. Secondly, the degradation and mechanism of the mechanical properties of graphene oxide concrete (GOC) under sulfate attack and a freeze–thaw environment were investigated. In addition, the dynamic modulus of elasticity (MOEdy) and uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) of the GOC were measured under different environmental conditions. According to the test results, the incorporation of graphene oxide in appropriate admixtures could improve the mechanical properties of concrete in these two working environments. It is worth noting that this effect is most pronounced when 0.05 wt% graphene oxide is incorporated. In the sulfate attack environment, the MOEdy and UTS of the GOC0.05% specimen at 120 cycles decreased by 22.28% and 24.23%, respectively, compared with the normal concrete specimens. In the freeze–thaw environment, the MOEdy and UTS of the GOC0.05% specimen at 90 cycles decreased by 13.96% and 7.58%, respectively, compared with the normal concrete specimens. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis showed that graphene oxide could adjust the aggregation state of cement hydration products and its own reaction with some cement hydration crystals to form strong covalent bonds, thereby improving and enhancing the microstructure density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional methods of initiating oblique detonation waves (ODWs) using wedges and cones face a fundamental challenge in reconciling the need for rapid initiation with stable combustion, especially at low flight Mach numbers (Ma < 8). This study introduces an innovative initiation configuration involving a truncated cone. By utilizing Euler equations coupled with detailed hydrogen–air chemical reaction models, the wave dynamics induced by the truncated cone configuration are systematically explored. The findings reveal that the truncated cone configuration enables more rapid initiation of ODWs compared to conventional cones, while also preserving improved stability when contrasted with wedge. This behavior can be attributed to the planar flow characteristics in the post-shock field of truncated cone, generated by the upstream wedge-shaped shock, and the Taylor–Maccoll flow characteristics, caused by the downstream conical shock. Furthermore, the study delves into the initiation and morphological changes with respect to the inner radius and angle of the truncated cone. As inner radii or truncated cone angle increase, three initiation wave systems emerge: stable, oscillatory, and detached modes. Analysis of the dynamic variations in pressure and velocity within the induction zone highlights that the upstream oscillation originates from the flow velocity in the induction zone falling below the local Chapman–Jouguet velocity of normal detonation wave (NDW). However, the upstream region of the truncated cone exhibits more pronounced expansion effects, leading to momentum loss, and subsequently, the weakening and even vanishing of the NDW. This prompts the downstream oscillation of the initiation structure, instigating a cyclic oscillation pattern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grylloprimevala jilina is a true cave insect living in the dark areas of caves. It has the characteristics of sparse skin pigmentation, degeneration of the compound eyes and monocular eyes, and obvious preference for high‐humidity and low‐temperature environments. Given the highly specialized, rare, and limited distribution, G. jilina is considered an endangered species and also a first‐level national protected insect in China. Cave creatures often undergo dramatic morphological changes in their sensory systems to adapt to the cave environment. Most previous studies mainly focused on morphological adaptive changes in cave insects, and only a few studied the changes at the gene level. In this study, we performed transcriptome analysis of G. jilina and constructed phylogenetic trees of genes that are related to environmental adaptation, including chemosensory, visual‐related, reproduction‐related, temperature adaptation‐related, and winged morph differentiation‐related genes. Besides, the expression levels of environmental adaption‐related genes in different tissues, including antennae, heads, thoraxes, abdomens, legs, and tails, were analyzed. The results showed the loss of chemosensory genes and vision‐related genes, the conservation of reproduction‐related genes and temperature adaptation‐related genes, and the conservation of wing‐related genes despite the loss of wings, and the results were consistent with other cave insects. The identification and expression study of genes possibly related to the environmental adaptability in G. jilina provided basic data for the protection of this endangered species and increased knowledge about insect evolution in general. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the design objectives of a product is to create a positive emotional user experience. Through careful design, the product can evoke emotional resonance in users and stimulate their pleasure and satisfaction. Therefore, emotion recognition is crucial for parameterized product design. Considering that emotion recognition based on electroencephalogram (EEG) signals is more objective and accurate compared to methods such as text and surveys, this paper proposes an emotion analysis model based on long short-term memory (LSTM) and EEG and applies it to parameterized design. The main contributions of this paper are as follows. (1) Constructing a high-accuracy emotion recognition model. First, EEG data reflecting the characteristic patterns of brain activities in different emotional states are collected through EEG electrodes. Then, the EEG data are input into the LSTM network for training, enabling it to learn and capture the features associated with emotional states. During the training process, the model learns to extract crucial emotional features from the EEG data for emotion state recognition. This model can automatically learn emotional features, handle long-term dependencies and provide a more accurate and reliable solution for emotion recognition tasks. (2) Creating an EEG dataset specifically for evaluating emotions related to a product and using the trained emotion recognition model to classify this dataset, obtaining emotion classification results. The emotion classification results can be used to determine which parameter designs in product development need to be retained or discarded. These parameter designs can involve aspects such as user experience, functionality, aesthetics, usability and user-friendliness. Decisions can be made based on the emotion classification results to improve the quality and user satisfaction of the product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reference genes are important for the accuracy of gene expression profiles using reverse-transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). However, there are no available reference genes reported for Sclerotium rolfsii; it actually has a pretty diverse and wide host range. In this study, seven candidate reference genes (UBC, β-TUB, 28S, 18S, PGK, EF1α and GAPDH) were validated for their expression stability in S. rolfsii under conditions of different developmental stages, populations, fungicide treatments, photoperiods and pHs. Four algorithm programs (geNorm, Normfinder, Bestkeeper and ΔCt) were used to evaluate the gene expression stability, and RefFinder was used to integrate the ranking results of four programs. Two reference genes were recommended by RefFinder for RT-qPCR normalization in S. rolfsii. The suitable reference genes were GAPDH and UBC across developmental stages, PGK and UBC across populations, GAPDH and PGK across fungicide treatments, EF1α and PGK across photoperiods, β-TUB and EF1α across pHs and PGK and GAPDH across all samples. Four target genes (atrB, PacC, WC1 and CAT) were selected for the validation of the suitability of selected reference genes. However, using one or two reference genes in combination to normalize the expression of target genes showed no significant difference in S. rolfsii. In short, this study provided reliable reference genes for studying the expression and function of genes in S. rolfsii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the potential mechanism of Shenkang injection (SKI) in the treatment of chronic renal failure based on network pharmacology and molecular docking technology, and to verify the core targets and key pathways by using the renal failure model. Methods: The active components and targets of Shenkang injection were retrieved by TCMSP database, and the disease related targets were obtained by OMIM, GeneCards and other databases. Then, the intersection was obtained, and were imported into String database for PPI analysis. After further screening of core targets, GO and KEGG analysis were performed. Autodock software was used to predict the molecular docking and binding ability of the selected active ingredients and core targets. Chronic renal failure (CRF) model was established by adenine induction in rats, and the pathological observation of renal tissues was conducted. Meanwhile, the effects of Shenkang injection and its active components on core targets and pathways of renal tissues were verified. Results: The results of network pharmacology showed that the main components of Shenkang injection might be hydroxysafflor yellow A (HSYA)、tanshinol、rheum emodin、Astragaloside IV. Through enrichment analysis of core targets, it was found that Shenkang injection may play an anti-chronic renal failure effect through PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Molecular docking results showed that the above pharmacodynamic components had strong binding ability with the target proteins PI3K and Akt. The results of animal experiments showed that renal function indexes of Shenkang injection group and pharmacodynamic component group were significantly improved compared with model group. HE staining results showed that the pathological status of the kidney was significantly improved in SKI and pharmacodynamic component treatment groups. Immunohistochemical results showed that the renal fibrosis status was significantly reduced in SKI and pharmacodynamic component treatment groups. q-RTPCR and WB results showed that the expression levels of PI3K and Akt were significantly decreased in the treatment groups (P< 0.05). Conclusions: Shenkang injection may inhibit PI3K-Akt signaling pathway to play an anti-chronic renal failure role through the pharmacodynamic component hydroxysafflor yellow A (HSYA), tanshinol, rheum emodin, Astragaloside IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a comparative study was conducted on the undrained monotonic and cyclic behavior of calcareous sand and siliceous sand using a series of simple shear tests. To more effectively draw the comparison, the same grain-size distribution was employed for calcareous sand and siliceous sand to study any underlying liquefaction behavior divergence arising from their respective distinctive particle characteristics. The results suggested that calcareous sand exhibited higher peak strengths, stability and liquefaction resistance than siliceous sand. Furthermore, the peak strength from monotonic shear tests could serve as a vital index to assess the liquefaction resistance of the sand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated whether peritoneal interposition flap (PIF) prevent lymphocele formation after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy with extended pelvic lymph node dissection. Materials and Methods: We performed a systematic review and cumulative meta-analysis of the primary outcomes according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses, Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews guidelines and risk-of-bias tool. Five databases, including Medline, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science, were systematically searched. The time frame of the search was set from the creation of the database to February 2023. Results: Meta-analysis of symptomatic lymphoceles (sLCs) rates revealed significant difference between PIF and no PIF group (eight studies pooled; p = 0.005), The sLCs rates account for 2.6% (28/1074) and 7.1% (85/1186) in the PIF and no PIF group, respectively. The resulting odds ratio was 0.34 (95% confidence interval: 0.16–0.73), taking into account the heterogeneity of these studies (Q = 14.32, p = 0.05; I2 = 51%). Conclusion: PIF is an effective intraoperative modification on the prevention or reduction of sLC, which is worthy of further clinical promotion. Systematic Review Registration: National Institute for Health and Care Research, identifier CRD42022364461 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work reported the grain growth kinetics of high‐entropy diboride (HEB) and HEB‐SiC ceramics containing 10, 20, and 30 vol% SiC during heat treatment at 1800°C. The coarsening of HEB phase occurred in the four kinds of ceramics during heat treatment, especially in HEB ceramics. The kinetic analysis showed that the grain growth of HEB phase in HEB and HEB‐SiC ceramics is controlled by interface‐controlled kinetics and grain‐boundary pinning, respectively. The growth rate constant of HEB grains is lower than ZrB2, which is related to the low grain‐boundary energy and the sluggish diffusion effect in dynamics of high‐entropy materials. The growth rate of matrix phase in HEB‐SiC ceramics is similar to that in ZrB2–SiC ceramics, indicating that the pinning effect of the SiC second‐phase played the dominant role in inhibiting the grain growth of the high‐entropy matrix phase and disguised the sluggish diffusion effect. This study reveals that the grain growth inhibition through sluggish diffusion effect in a high‐entropy ceramic system may be magnified by the possible existence of segregated second‐phase particles located at the grain boundaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metabolic reprogramming is a hallmark of cancer. Several studies have shown that inactivation of Krebs cycle enzymes, such as citrate synthase (CS) and fumarate hydratase (FH), facilitates aerobic glycolysis and cancer progression. MAEL has been shown to play an oncogenic role in bladder, liver, colon, and gastric cancers, but its role in breast cancer and metabolism is still unknown. Here, we demonstrated that MAEL promoted malignant behaviours and aerobic glycolysis in breast cancer cells. Mechanistically, MAEL interacted with CS/FH and HSAP8 via its MAEL domain and HMG domain, respectively, and then enhanced the binding affinity of CS/FH with HSPA8, facilitating the transport of CS/FH to the lysosome for degradation. MAEL‐induced degradation of CS and FH could be suppressed by the lysosome inhibitors leupeptin and NH4Cl, but not by the macroautophagy inhibitor 3‐MA or the proteasome inhibitor MG132. These results suggested that MAEL promoted the degradation of CS and FH via chaperone‐mediated autophagy (CMA). Further studies showed that the expression of MAEL was significantly and negatively correlated with CS and FH in breast cancer. Moreover, overexpression of CS or/and FH could reverse the oncogenic effects of MAEL. Taken together, MAEL promotes a metabolic shift from oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis by inducing CMA‐dependent degradation of CS and FH, thereby promoting breast cancer progression. These findings have elucidated a novel molecular mechanism of MAEL in cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phylloporia, a wood-inhabiting fungal genus, has been used as an anti-inflammatory food taken in the form of tea in Shandong Province, China. The species used in folklore have been clarified as Phylloporia fontanesiae and P. lonicerae. To promote the utilization of Phylloporia and its benefit to human health, sources, medicinal metabolites and functions, safety, and commercial potentials are summarized in this review. The fruiting bodies are the most acceptable sources of Phylloporia, but their shortage makes fermented mycelia a good alternative. Polysaccharides, sterols, acidic components, styryl compounds and polychlorinated compounds are the most well-studied medicinal metabolites extracted from Phylloporia. The main medicinal functions revealed from Phylloporia include antitumor, immunomodulation, antioxidant, neuroprotection, prevention of diabetes and its complications, and antimicrobial activity. The safety of Phylloporia has been demonstrated by experimenting for acute and subchronic oral toxicity of fermented mycelia on animals. A large number of patents even if some are being examined have indicated the commercial potentials of Phylloporia. In the future, increased efforts regarding species identification, artificial cultivation and multi-omics data will contribute to the deeper exploration of the medicinal potential of Phylloporia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We compute the Chow groups of smooth Gushel–Mukai varieties of dimension 5. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of monotonic and multidirectional cyclic simple shear tests were performed on reconstituted fiber-reinforced calcareous sand specimens prepared by the dry deposition method, at a relative density of approximately 50%, considering the effects of fiber contents and cyclic stress levels. The peak shear strength, the linkage between monotonic and cyclic behaviors, liquefaction resistance, and pore pressure responses of calcareous sand with and without fiber reinforcement were analyzed. The results indicate that both unreinforced and fiber-reinforced calcareous sand exhibit limited flow instability behavior and the peak shear strength increases with the increase in fiber content under monotonic loading. The inclusion of fibers and increasing fiber contents can improve the liquefaction resistance of calcareous sand under cyclic loading. A linear relationship was found between the normalized liquefaction resistance of reinforced sand and the number of cycles for triggering liquefaction, and the prediction of liquefaction resistance of fiber-reinforced calcareous sand with various fiber contents can be conveniently achieved according to the linear relationship. The pore pressure prediction model considering the effect of fiber contents was proposed, which was capable of effectively simulating the pore pressure generation of fiber-reinforced calcareous sand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The postpartum period is a complex time for females that affects health recovery. Stress during this period is one of the main risk factors for depression. Therefore, preventing stress-induced depression in the postpartum period is of great importance. Pup separation (PS) is a natural paradigm of postpartum care; however, the effect of different PS protocols during lactation on stress-induced depressive behaviours in dams is unknown. Methods: Lactating C57BL/6J mice were subjected to no pup separation (NPS), brief PS (15 min/day, PS15) or long PS (180 min/day, PS180) from postpartum day 1 to postpartum day 21 and were then subjected to chronic restraint stress (CRS) for 21 days. Behavioural tests, specifically the open field test (OFT), elevated plus maze (EPM) test and tail suspension test (TST), were performed. The expression of mRNA and protein in the hippocampus and microbiota composition were also assessed. Results: We observed CRS-induced anxiety- and depression-like behaviours in NPS dams. In addition, in NPS dams, microglial activation and the levels of NOD-like receptor pyrin domain containing 3, caspase-1 and interleukin-1β were increased, whereas expression levels of collapsing response mediator protein 2 (CRMP2) and α-tubulin were decreased. However, immobility time in the TST was lower in PS15+CRS dams than in NPS+CRS dams, and time spent in the centre during the OFT and in the open arms during the EPM test was higher in PS15+CRS dams, indicating resilience. Expression of hippocampal biomarkers of neuroinflammation was inhibited and levels of CRMP2-mediated neuroplasticity were increased in PS15+CRS dams. Notably, we observed taxonomic changes in the cecal microbiota across different PS groups, as well as relationships between gut microbiota composition and some biomarkers of hippocampal neuroinflammation and neuroplasticity. Limitations: The sample size for gut microbiota analysis in this study was small. Conclusion: Collectively, the results of this study confirm that brief PS confers stress resilience in CRS-induced behavioural deficits and reverses hippocampal neuroinflammation–neuroplasticity injury and gut microbiota imbalance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, the economic traits of Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) varieties have had a negative tendency. Meanwhile, the status of wild germplasm resources of E. sinensis is unknown, hindering the utilization of wild germplasm resources and the green development of the E. sinensis industry. Thus, the conservation of the wild E. sinensis germplasm resource is of great significance. To this end, we collected wild E. sinensis from two different river basins, the Yangtze River basin, and the Liaohe River basin, and analyzed the genetic diversity as well as the genetic differentiation in E. sinensis populations. Based on eight microsatellite markers, we found moderate genetic diversity in E. sinensis populations regardless of river basin. Based on the mitochondrial D-loop region, we found that all populations are at mutation drift equilibrium, while the Nm between any two populations is greater than 1. We hypothesized the existence of island model gene flow patterns among E. sinensis. Interestingly, genetic differentiation among E. sinensis populations was low, except that between Liaohe and Anqing or Shanghai populations. Additionally, geometric morphological analysis could distinguish E. sinensis from different basins, with an accuracy of 94.2–100%. Given the similar genetic diversity in the two basins, the genetic convergence of E. sinensis from different basins deserves further attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blueberry is the source of a variety of bioactive substances, including phenolic compounds, such as anthocyanins, pterostilbene, phenolic acids, etc. Several studies have revealed that polyphenols in blueberry have important bioactivities in maintaining health, such as antioxidant and anti-tumor activities, immune regulation, the prevention of chronic diseases, etc. Therefore, these phenolic compounds in blueberries have been widely used in the field of healthcare, and the extraction, isolation, and purification of phenolic compounds are the prerequisites for their utilization. It is imperative to systematically review the research progress and prospects of phenolic compounds present in blueberries. Herein, the latest progress in the extraction, purification, and analysis of phenolic compounds from blueberries is reviewed, which can in turn provide a foundation for further research and usage of blueberries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a physical model that provides a comprehensive understanding of the motion behavior of boron nitride nanosheets (BNNSs) immersed in ultrapure deionized water and subjected to a series of nanosecond pulses. In a study conducted by Y. Mi et al. The authors explored the global alignment behavior of BNNSs and fitted the experimental data with an exponential decay function. However, this function lacks clear physical mechanisms and the significance of the fitting parameters remains unclear. To address this issue, we have developed a kinetic model that explicitly describes the underlying physical mechanisms. Furthermore, we propose a simplified mathematical model that not only predicts the displacement of BNNSs but also estimates the total time, velocity, and acceleration of the motion process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rutile TiO 2 ceramics substituted with acceptor and donor ions are regarded to be promising candidate materials for energy storage because of their colossal permittivity (CP). In this work, a good CP performance (ϵ r >104) was achieved in all of (Cu 0.5 W 0.5) x Ti 1- x O 2 (CWTO x) ceramics fabricated by a traditional solid reaction method. Remarkably, CWTO 0.015 ceramic obtained an acceptable temperature stability accompanied a low dielectric loss (tan δ < 0.1) within a broad frequency/temperature range, which satisfies the application requirement of X8R. Two kinds of abnormal dielectric relaxation at low and high temperature region were interpreted by interface polarization and ionization of oxygen vacancies, respectively. Data of complex impedance combined XPS and EPR results proved that the IBLC effect is dominant to the CP performance of CWTO x ceramics. The finding in this work is expected to promote the further development and application of CP materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We compute the Chow groups of smooth Gushel–Mukai varieties of dimension 5. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, gallium arsenide (GaAs), which has an adjustable band gap and low cost, was adopted as an absorption layer in which KNbO3, having good dielectric, photoelectric, and piezoelectric properties, served as a scattering element for the improvement in absorption efficiency of solar cells. Benefited by the high absorption efficiency of KNbO3, the utilization of the ultraviolet and infrared bands for solar cells can be strengthened. In addition, the ferroelectric and photovoltaic characteristics of KNbO3 enable the realization of decreased thickness of solar cells. Based on the simulation of the shape, width, and period of the scattering element, the effect of the thickness of the scattering element on the absorption efficiency, quantum efficiency, and total efficiency of absorption efficiency was comprehensively simulated. The results show that the absorption layer delivers the optimal performance when using a hexagonal KNbO3 scattering element. The absorption efficiency of the GaAs absorption layer with KNbO3 as the scattering element is increased by 28.42% compared with that of a GaAs absorption layer with empty holes. In addition, the quantum efficiency is maintained above 98% and the total efficiency is 91.59%. At the same time, the efficiency of such an absorption layer is still above 90% when the angle ranges from 0 to 70°. This work provides theoretical guidance for the rational design of solar cells based on photonic crystal structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The yellow colour of ornamental varieties of tree peony originated from Paeonia delavayi. However, but P. delavayi and Paeonia suffruticosa belong to different subgroups, so hybridization is difficult and results in a long breeding cycle. However, no comprehensive transcriptomic profiling has focused on the colour formation mechanisms of yellow tree peony petals. Analysing the colour formation mechanism of yellow petals in P. delavayi is very important for directional molecular breeding. In this study, the transcriptional map of yellow pigment development in petals was used to analyse the mechanism of petal colour formation. We analysed the genes related to the metabolism of flavonoids and carotenoids and the transcription factors (TFs) involved in P. delavayi var. lutea (pure yellow individual) yellow pigment development using transcriptome sequence profiling. Transcriptome sequence profiles revealed three and four differentially expressed transcripts (DETs) involved in flavonoid biosynthesis and carotenoid biosynthesis, respectively. An analysis of DETs in the flavonoid pathway showed that chalcone synthase (CHS) and chalcone 2´-glucosyltransferases (THC2'GT) act in synergy to synthesize isosalipurposide (ISP). CHS and flavonol synthase (FLS) synergistically synthesize quercetin and kaempferol. DEG analysis of the carotenoid pathway revealed that phytoene synthase (PSY), carotenoid isomerase (CRTISO) and β-carotene hydroxylases (CHYB) play a key role in regulating lutein formation, and carotenoid cleavage dioxygenase (CCD) plays an important role in the degradation of carotenoids. These two pathways may be regulated by TF families such as bHLH, ARF, and MYB. The results of the transient overexpression of genes showed that CHS and CHI are regulated by PdMYB2. In this study, the molecular mechanism of ISP synthesis was analysed in depth, and the complete metabolic pathway of carotenoids in Paeonia L. was reported for the first time. By studying the formation mechanism of yellow pigment in P. delavayi petals, a breeding strategy for improving flavonol and carotenoid contents and reducing anthocyanin synthesis by genetic engineering was suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Autosomal dominant lateral temporal epilepsy (ADLTE) is an inherited syndrome caused by mutations in the leucine-rich glioma inactivated 1 (LGI1) gene. It is known that functional LGI1 is secreted by excitatory neurons, GABAergic interneurons, and astrocytes, and regulates AMPA-type glutamate receptor-mediated synaptic transmission by binding ADAM22 and ADAM23. However, > 40 LGI1 mutations have been reported in familial ADLTE patients, more than half of which are secretion-defective. How these secretion-defective LGI1 mutations lead to epilepsy is unknown. Results: We identified a novel secretion-defective LGI1 mutation from a Chinese ADLTE family, LGI1-W183R. We specifically expressed mutant LGI1W183R in excitatory neurons lacking natural LGI1, and found that this mutation downregulated Kv1.1 activity, led to neuronal hyperexcitability and irregular spiking, and increased epilepsy susceptibility in mice. Further analysis revealed that restoring Kv1.1 in excitatory neurons rescued the defect of spiking capacity, improved epilepsy susceptibility, and prolonged the life-span of mice. Conclusions: These results describe a role of secretion-defective LGI1 in maintaining neuronal excitability and reveal a new mechanism in the pathology of LGI1 mutation-related epilepsy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fundamental motor skills (FMSs) are crucial for children's health and comprehensive development. Obese children often encounter a considerable challenge in the development of FMSs. School-family blended PA programs are considered a potentially effective approach to improve FMSs and health-related outcomes among obese children, however, empirical evidence is still limited. Therefore, this paper aims to describe the development, implementation, and evaluation of a 24-week school-family blended multi-component PA intervention program for promoting FMSs and health among Chinese obese children, namely the Fundamental Motor Skills Promotion Program for Obese Children (FMSPPOC) employing behavioral change techniques (BCTs) and building on the Multi-Process Action Control (M-PAC) framework as well as using the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework for improving and evaluating the program. Methods: Using a cluster randomized controlled trial (CRCT), 168 Chinese obese children (8–12 years) from 24 classes of six primary schools will be recruited and randomly assigned to one of two groups by a cluster randomization, including a 24-week FMSPPOC intervention group and a non-treatment waiting-list control group. The FMSPPOC program includes a 12-week initiation phase and a 12-week maintenance phase. School-based PA training sessions (2 sessions/week, 90 min each session) and family-based PA assignments (at least three times per week, 30 min each time) will be implemented in the initiation phase (semester time), while three 60-min offline workshops and three 60-min online webinars will be conducted in the maintenance phase (summer holiday). The implementation evaluation will be undertaken according to the RE-AIM framework. For intervention effectiveness evaluation, primary outcome (FMSs: gross motor skills, manual dexterity and balance) and secondary outcomes (health behaviors, physical fitness, perceived motor competence, perceived well-being, M-PAC components, anthropometric and body composition measures) will be collected at four time-points: at baseline, 12-week mid-intervention, 24-week post-intervention, and 6-month follow-up occasions. Discussion: The FMSPPOC program will provide new insights into the design, implementation, and evaluation of FMSs promotion among obese children. The research findings will also supplement empirical evidence, understanding of potential mechanisms, and practical experience for future research, health services, and policymaking. Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry; ChiCTR2200066143; 25 Nov 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine dynamic disasters, such as storm surges and huge waves, can cause large economic and human losses. The assessment of marine dynamic disasters is, thus, important, but improvements to its reliability are needed. The current study improved and integrated the assessment from the perspective of multi-factor coupling. Using a weighted index system, a marine dynamic disaster assessment indicator system suitable for China's coastal waters was established, and a method for calculating the weight of disaster indicators was proposed from the perspective of rapid assessment. To reduce the assessment deviation in coastal waters, a multi-factor coupling algorithm was proposed. This algorithm obtained amplitude variations of wave orbital motion in horizontal and vertical directions, which was used to evaluate the influence of background current and terrain slope on coastal ocean waves. Landsat 8 remote sensing images were used to carry out an object-oriented extraction of raft and cage aquaculture areas in China's coastal waters. The aquaculture density was then used as the main basis for a vulnerability assessment. Finally, the whole assessment system was integrated and verified during a typical storm surge process in coastal waters around the Shandong Peninsula in China. The coupled variations were also added to the assessment process and increased the risk value by an average of 12% in the High Sea States of the case study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is one of the most abundant prostaglandins and has been implicated in various diseases. Here, we aimed to explore the role of the PGE2 pathway in mediating ferroptosis during acute kidney injury. When renal tubular epithelial cells stimulated by H2O2, the contents of glutathione (GSH) and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) decreased, whereas the level of lipid peroxide increased. Ferrostatin‐1 can effectively attenuate these changes. In this process, the expression levels of cyclooxygenase (COX)‐1 and COX‐2 were up‐regulated. Meanwhile, the expression of microsomal prostaglandin E synthase‐2 was elevated, whereas the expression of microsomal prostaglandin E synthase‐1 and cytosolic prostaglandin E synthase were down‐regulated. Furthermore, the expression of 15‐hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase decreased. An excessive accumulation of PGE2 promoted ferroptosis, whereas the PGE2 inhibitor pranoprofen minimized the changes for COX‐2, GSH, GPX4 and lipid peroxides. A decrease in the levels of the PGE2 receptor E‐series of prostaglandin 1/3 partially restored the decline of GSH and GPX4 levels and inhibited the aggravation of lipid peroxide. Consistent with the in vitro results, increased PGE2 levels led to increased levels of 3,4‐methylenedioxyamphetamine, Fe2+ accumulation and decreased GSH and GPX4 levels during renal ischaemia/reperfusion injury injury in mice. Our results indicate that the PGE2 pathway mediated oxidative stress‐induced ferroptosis in renal tubular epithelial cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]