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Abstract Sepsis-induced acute lung injury (SALI) poses a significant threat with high incidence and mortality rates. Ginsenoside Rg1 (GRg1), derived from Ginseng in traditional Chinese medicine, has been found to reduce inflammation and protect lung epithelial cells against tissue damage. However, the specific roles and mechanisms by which GRg1 mitigates SALI have yet to be fully elucidated. In this context, we employed a relevant SALI mouse model, alongside network pharmacology, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulation to pinpoint GRg1's action targets, complemented by in vitro assays to explore the underlying mechanisms. Our research shows that GRg1 alleviates CLP-induced SALI, decreasing lung tissue damage and levels of serum proinflammatory factor IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β, also enhancing the survival rate of CLP mice. A total of 116 common targets between GRg1 and ALI, with specific core targets including AKT1, VEGFA, SRC, IGF1, ESR1, STAT3, and ALB. Further in vitro experiments assessed GRg1's intervention effects on MLE-12 cells exposed to LPS, with qRT-PCR analysis and molecular dynamics simulations confirming AKT1 as the key target with the favorable binding activity for GRg1. Western blot results indicated that GRg1 increased the Bcl-2/Bax protein expression ratio to reduce apoptosis and decreased the high expression of cleaved caspase-3 in LPS-induced MLE-12 cells. More results showed significant increases in the phosphorylation of PI3K and AKT1. Flow cytometric analysis using PI and Annexin-V assays further verified that GRg1 decreased the apoptosis rate in LPS-stimulated MLE-12 cells (from 14.85 to 6.54%, p

Abstract Oxygen vacancy (Ov) is an anionic defect widely existed in metal oxide lattice, as exemplified by CeO2, TiO2, and ZnO. As Ov can modify the band structure of solid, it improves the physicochemical properties such as the semiconducting performance and catalytic behaviours. We report here a new type of Ov as an intrinsic part of a perfect crystalline surface. Such non-defect Ov stems from the irregular hexagonal sawtooth-shaped structure in the (111) plane of trivalent rare earth oxides (RE2O3). The materials with such intrinsic Ov structure exhibit excellent performance in ammonia decomposition reaction with surface Ru active sites. Extremely high H2 formation rate has been achieved at ~1 wt% of Ru loading over Sm2O3, Y2O3 and Gd2O3 surface, which is 1.5–20 times higher than reported values in the literature. The discovery of intrinsic Ov suggests great potentials of applying RE oxides in heterogeneous catalysis and surface chemistry.

Abstract Monitoring the changes in population and anthropogenic CO2 emissions caused by geopolitical conflicts is significant for humanitarian assistance and also for revealing the CO2 emission patterns of human activities. However, the changes in population and anthropogenic CO2 emissions are highly dynamic, and representative survey data are generally unavailable. We monitor the near-real-time and fine-grained changes in war-induced population and anthropogenic CO2 emissions in Ukraine through social media data. One year after the invasion, over 11 million Ukrainians are displaced from the baseline $${0.1}^{\circ}\,*\,{0.1}^{\circ}$$ 0.1 ∘ * 0.1 ∘ gridded regions. There is a significant correlation between the estimated changes and the reference changes for each month in all CO2 emission sectors, with R2 respectively ranging from 0.57 to 0.93, 0.41 to 0.9, 0.74 to 0.99 for residential consumption, ground transport, and industry sectors. Overall, the proposed method provides a new perspective to monitor Ukrainian refugee crisis and measure the spatio-temporal response of anthropogenic CO2 emissions.

Selective activation of Pt(IV) prodrugs within tumors has emerged as a promising strategy in tumor treatment. Although progress has been made with photo- and ultrasound-activated Pt(IV) prodrugs, concerns remain over the non-specific activation of photosensitizers (PS) and the potential for phototoxicity and chemical toxicity. In this study, a sequential dual-locked Pt(IV) nano-prodrug that can be activated by both the acidic tumor microenvironment and light was developed. The Pt(IV) prodrug was prepared by conjugating PS-locked Pt(IV) to a polymeric core, which was then chelated with metallo iron to lock its photoactivity and form a metallo-nano prodrug. Under acidic tumor microenvironment conditions, the metallo-nano prodrug undergoes dissociation of iron, triggering a reduction process in oxaliplatin under light irradiation, resulting in the activation of both chemotherapy and photodynamic therapy (PDT). Additionally, the prodrug could induce metallo-triggered ferroptosis and polarization of tumor-associated macrophages (TAM), thereby enhancing tumor inhibition. The dual-lock strategy employed in a nanoparticle delivery system represents an expansion in the application of platinum-based anticancer drugs, making it a promising new direction in cancer treatment.

The novel Ni–Cr–W–Gd alloy have the gadolinium neutron absorption unit and the tungsten gamma ray shielding unit, which can be used for thermal neutron and gamma ray co-shielding. This Ni–Cr–W–Gd alloy have good strength and fracture elongation, however, its corrosion performance has not been reported yet. In this work, the corrosion behavior for Ni–Cr–W–Gd alloys was studied in the boric acid solution at 40 °C. Electrochemical measurement techniques, long-term immersion tests, corrosion morphology and composition analysis, and first principles calculation have been used. After 4000 h immersing, the maximum steady state corrosion rate among all alloys is only 0.3221 μm/yr. The increasing Gd promotes the increase in corrosion current density and make the weight loss of alloys more serve. Both the results of relative potential test and first principles calculation demonstrate the NiCrW matrix is the anode and Ni5Gd is the cathode in micro galvanic corrosion. The matrix around the interface of matrix/Ni5Gd suffer preferential anodic dissolution, resulting in the detachment of the Ni5Gd phase and formation of pores on the surfaces. The passive films are composed of Cr2O3 and WO3, moreover, the intensity of Gd2O3 increases with Gd content. This work contributes to the promotion of the novel alloys in spent fuel storage environments.

Al–Nb–B refiner has been considered as an alternative to Al–Ti–B refiner for hypoeutectic Al–Si alloys due to Si-poisoning effect. In this paper, the effects of Al–Nb–B and Al–Ti–B refiner on the microstructure and mechanical properties in indirect squeeze casting Al–8Si-0.2Mg-0.5Mn alloy were compared. Results show that the grain sizes in the edge chilling layer, segregation band, and the center region of the Al–Nb–B refined alloys were refined by 13.9%, 12.5%, and 17.6% compared to Al–Ti–B refined alloys, respectively. The yield strength, tensile strength, and elongation of Al–Nb–B inoculated alloys were superior to those of the unrefined alloys and Al–Ti–B inoculated alloys. The coexistence of NbAl3 and NbB2 particles in the Al–Nb–B refiner exhibited excellent anti Si-poisoning capability. They significantly decreased the grain size and uniformly distributed the eutectic Si particles and Fe-rich phases, resulting in an increase in the yield strength of the alloy by 16.1% compared to the Al–Ti–B inoculated alloy. The distribution of iron-rich phases in the segregation band was affected by the inoculation. The size of α-Al15(Fe, Mn)3Si2 phase in Al–Ti–B inoculated alloys was refined, and the number significantly increased, resulting in a decrease in tensile strength of 12.82 MPa. In the Al–Nb–B inoculated alloys, the size and number of α-Al15(Fe, Mn)3Si2 phase decreased, and the δ-Al4FeSi2 phase increased, which effectively improved the fracture toughness and ductility. In addition, with the increase in grain refinement (from unrefined to Al–Ti–B to Al–Nb–B inoculated alloy), the fracture behavior changed from trans-granular fracture to intergranular fracture, improving the fracture toughness.

Low back pain is among the most grave public health concerns worldwide and the major clinical manifestation of intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). The destruction of annulus fibrosus (AF) is the primary cause of IVDD. A sustainable and stable treatment system for IVDD is lacking because of the special organizational structure and low nutrient supply of AF. We here found that IVDD results in the impaired mitochondrial function of AF tissue, and mitochondrial autophagy (mitophagy) plays a protective role in this process. We therefore reported a thread-structural microneedle (T-MN) matching the ring structure of AF. Based on the adsorption effect of laminin, our T-MN could load with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes to envelope the regulating mitophagy microRNA (miRNA 378), named as T-MN@EXO@miR−378. In general, we offered in situ locking in the defect site of AF to prevent nucleus pulposus leakage and promoted AF repair. The design of the thread structure was aimed at bionically matching the layered AF structure, thereby providing stronger adhesion. The T-MN@EXO@miR−378 effectively attached to AF and slowly released therapeutic engineered exosomes, and prevented IVDD progression by restoring mitophagy, promoting AF cell proliferation and migration, and inhibiting the pathological remodeling of the extracellular matrix. This functional system can be used as an excellent tool for sustained drug release and has a certain prospect in substituting the conventional treatment of IVDD.

ObjectiveThis study focuses on the quasi-static pressure characteristics of a confined cabin in a water mist environment. MethodsFirst, on the basis of the theoretical model of quasi-static pressure in a confined cabin in adiabatic ideal gas, two new assumptions are added to establish a theoretical model of quasi-static pressure in a confined cabin in a water mist environment. Internal explosion experiments in a confined cabin with and without water mist are then performed with the charge as an independent variable, and the quasi-static pressure is measured and used to verify the mitigation effect of water mist on quasi-static pressure and obtain its empirical formula.Results Combined with the theoretical model and experimental data analysis, it is concluded that the ability of water mist to reduce quasi-static pressure increases with the increase in charge-volume ratio, but the increase rate gradually decreases. Both the theoretical formulas of the afterburning correction term and empirical formulas can be used to estimate the quasi-static pressure peak in the cabin.ConclusionsThe experimental results verify the mitigation effect of water mist on quasi-static pressure. The experimental data of this paper and others shows good agreement with the empirical formula of the quasi-static pressure peak of an internal explosion in a water mist environment, and can be used to estimate the quasi-static pressure peak.

Abstract Background In 2018, the National Centralized Drug Procurement (NCDP) policy has been implemented in 11 provinces, and promoted across the country in 2019. The main feature of the policy is “volume for price”, therefore, it is necessary to measure the price relationship, not only to reduce the price of drugs, reduce the burden of patients' medical costs, but also facilitate pharmaceutical companies to access enough innovation incentives. The aim of this study was to assess the vacated space effect of the drug centralized procurement by national organizations in exchange of price for quantity. Methods A difference-in-differences (DID) model was employed to analyze the effect of the 4 + 7 pilot drugs centralized purchasing policy on drug sales volume and selected versus clinically substitutable unselected varieties, using observational data from 2018 to 2019. We compared drug procurement data between secondary and above public hospitals in pilot and non-pilot cities throughout China. Results The study showed that the average treatment effect (ATE) of sales in the in-hospital market for the selected supply varieties in centralized purchasing is -0.42, and with a sales volume of 0.49. This indicates a volume-price vacated space of 1.16 ~ 1.17 DDD (defined daily dose)/Yuan, implying that for every 1 defined daily dose (DDD) increase in reported volume, the standardized price decreased by 1.16–1.17 Yuan. The ATE of in-hospital market sales for drugs not selected in centralized procurement shows a decrease of 0.13. This finding highlights the presence of the price linkage effect. The ATE of sales volume is 0.57, indicating a volume-price space of 4.38 ~ 4.39 DDD/Yuan for unselected drugs, approximately 3.75 higher relative to that of the selected ones. Conclusions The ratio of the volume-price space of clinically substitutable unselected and selected drugs may serve as direct evidence for evaluating the shift from centralized purchasing of drug varieties to clinically substitutable other ones. To strengthen the volume-based negotiation approach and maximize the effectiveness of centralized purchasing policies, we recommend the strategic implementation of a three-tiered centralized purchasing system, the expansion of drug coverage, and the introduction of relevant constraints and incentives.

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of percutaneous coaxial large-channel endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion (PCLE-LIF) and transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) in the treatment of degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis. The clinical data of patients with degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis who underwent PCLE-LIF (experimental group) and TLIF (control group) surgery from September 2019 to September 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. We collected clinical data and compared the two groups in terms of perioperative parameters, treatment response rate, inflammatory response markers, postoperative complications, postoperative pain, and functional recovery. The results showed that the treatment outcomes in the experimental group were significantly better than those in the control group. Specifically, perioperative parameters and inflammatory response markers in the experimental group were significantly better than those in the control group, with statistically significant differences (P

Abstract Coal is one of the most important fossil energy sources and is ensuring global energy security. Annual maximum NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) data is an important indicator for the research in balancing coal mining and vegetation conservation. However, the existing annual maximum NDVI data displayed lower values with temporally inconsistent and a noticeable mosaic line. Here we propose an algorithm for automatically generating the annual maximum NDVI of China’s coal bases in Google Earth Engine called: Auto-NDVIcb. The accuracy of the Auto-NDVIcb algorithm has been verified with an average RMSE of 0.087 for the 14 coal bases from 2013 to 2022. Based on the proposed Auto-NDVIcb algorithm, an annual maximum NDVI dataset for all 14 coal bases in China from 2013 to 2022 was publicly released. This dataset can be fast and automatically updated online. Hence, the public dataset will continuously serve to monitor the vegetation change induced by coal mining, exploring the mechanism of vegetation degradation, and providing scientific data for developing vegetation protection policies in coal mines.

This is an article in the field of metallurgical engineering. The preparation of black copper electrolyte by removing copper from secondary refining slag of high copper and high tin anode furnace by hydrogen peroxide oxidation and acid leaching was studied. The process conditions related to the removal efficiency of the copper and arsenic were researched including the hydrogen peroxide dosage, reaction temperature, sulfuric acid concentration and reaction time. Results show that, under the following optimal conditions, including refining slag of 20.0 g, 2.5 mol/L sulfuric acid of 200 mL, solid-liquid ratio of 1/10, temperature of 65 ℃, dosage of hydrogen peroxide of 10.0 mL, stirring speed of 400 r/min and leaching time of 60 min, the leaching ratios of Cu and As can reach 88.98% and 87.33%, respectively, and the leaching ratios of Ni and Sn were only 7.72% and 1.34%, respectively. The concentration of copper ion in the leaching solution was 48.48 g/L, which can be used as the supplement of black copper electrolyte.

This is an article in the field of process mineralogy. In order to solve the problem of color spot impurity sorting in high-purity mica, a sorting method of mica containing impurities based on image processing is proposed in this article. According to the state of color spot impurities of mica under different light sources, the influence of image illumination environment is studied. On this basis, the processing methods such as Gaussian filtering and Canny edge detection are studied. Finally, the image recognition and discrimination of mica ores are realized accurately, and good results are obtained in the recognition of three different types of mica ores.

Abstract Background To investigate the outcome and prognosis after Unicondylar knee arthroplasty (UKA) in patients with medial compartment arthritis of the knee combined with anterior cruciate ligament(ACL) dysfunction. Methods A total of 122 patients diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis and treated with medial mobile platform unicondylar replacement at our center from January 2019 to December 2021 were retrospectively included in the study, and were divided into two groups according to ACL function, namely the normal ACL function group (ACLF) and the poor ACL function (N-ACLF) group. The postoperative results and prognosis of the two groups were evaluated and compared. Results This study included 122 patients who underwent UKA surgery. There were no statistical differences in preoperative and postoperative posterior tibial tilt angle, knee mobility, KOOS, and prognosis between the two groups (P > 0.05). Conclusion For medial compartment arthritis of the knee combined with ACL malfunction, surgery resulted in pain relief, improved quality of life and a good prognosis for such patients. It is hoped that clinicians will perform UKA in patients with ACL dysfunction after a comprehensive evaluation to improve their quality of life.

Abstract Synthetic hexaploid wheats (SHWs) are effective genetic resources for transferring agronomically important genes from wild relatives to common wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Dozens of reference-quality pseudomolecule assemblies of hexaploid wheat have been generated, but none is reported for SHW-derived cultivars. Here, we generated a chromosome-scale assembly for the SHW-derived cultivar ‘Chuanmai 104’ based on PacBio HiFi reads and chromosome conformation capture sequencing. The total assembly size was 14.81 Gb with a contig N50 length of 58.25 Mb. A BUSCO analysis yielded a completeness score of 99.30%. In total, repetitive elements comprised 81.36% of the genome and 122,554 high-confidence protein-coding gene models were predicted. In summary, the first chromosome-level assembly for a SHW-derived cultivar presents a promising outlook for the study and utilization of SHWs in wheat improvement, which is essential to meet the global food demand.

Abstract Breast cancer (BC) remains a significant health concern for women globally, prompting the relentless pursuit of novel therapeutic modalities. As a traditional Chinese medicine, Boswellia carterii has been extensively used to treat various cancers, such as BC. However, the anti-BC effect and underlying mechanism of Boswellia carterii remain largely unclear. The aim of this study is to explore the therapeutic effect of Boswellia carterii n-hexane extract (BCHE) against BC as well as its underlying mechanism. The present study showed that BCHE significantly suppressed the viability of human BC cells. Moreover, BCHE exhibited potent anti-BC activity in vivo with no significant toxic effects. Additionally, BCHE induced ferroptosis via increased Transferrin expression and the intracellular accumulation of Fe2+, as well as decreased glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) expression and the upregulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced lipid peroxidation in BC cells. In vivo experimental results also demonstrated that BCHE effectively induced ferroptosis through GPX4 downregulation and Transferrin upregulation in tumor-bearing mice. Overall, BCHE inhibited the growth of BC cells by inducing ferroptosis mediated by modulating the iron accumulation pathway and the lipid peroxidation pathway. Therefore, BCHE could serve as a potential ferroptosis-targeting drug for treating BC.

Abstract Killer cell lectin-like receptor G1 (KLRG1) is an immune checkpoint receptor expressed predominantly in NK and T-cell subsets that downregulates the activation and proliferation of immune cells and participates in cell-mediated immune responses. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated the importance of KLRG1 as a noteworthy disease marker and therapeutic target that can influence disease onset, progression, and prognosis. Blocking KLRG1 has been shown to effectively mitigate the effects of downregulation in various mouse tumor models, including solid tumors and hematologic malignancies. However, KLRG1 inhibitors have not yet been approved for human use, and the understanding of KLRG1 expression and its mechanism of action in various diseases remains incomplete. In this review, we explore alterations in the distribution, structure, and signaling pathways of KLRG1 in immune cells and summarize its expression patterns and roles in the development and progression of autoimmune diseases, infectious diseases, and cancers. Additionally, we discuss the potential applications of KLRG1 as a tool for tumor immunotherapy.

Abstract Although the association between persistent hypertension and the compromise of both micro‐ and macro‐circulatory functions is well recognized, a significant gap in quantitative investigations exploring the interplay between microvascular and macrovascular injuries still exists. In this study, the authors looked into the relationship between brachial‐ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) and hypertensive retinopathy in treated hypertensive adults. The authors conducted a cross‐sectional study of treated hypertensive patients with the last follow‐up data from the China Stoke Primary Prevention Trial (CSPPT) in 2013. With the use of PWV/ABI instruments, baPWV was automatically measured. The Keith‐Wagener‐Barker classification was used to determine the diagnosis of hypertensive retinopathy. The odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for the connection between baPWV and hypertensive retinopathy were determined using multivariable logistic regression models. The OR curves were created using a multivariable‐adjusted restricted cubic spline model to investigate any potential non‐linear dose‐response relationships between baPWV and hypertensive retinopathy. A total of 8514 (75.5%) of 11,279 participants were diagnosed with hypertensive retinopathy. The prevalence of hypertensive retinopathy increased from the bottom quartile of baPWV to the top quartile: quartile 1: 70.7%, quartile 2: 76.1%, quartile 3: 76.7%, quartile 4: 78.4%. After adjusting for potential confounders, baPWV was positively associated with hypertensive retinopathy (OR = 1.05, 95% CI, 1.03–1.07, p

Abstract Background To analyze the risk factors for the development of avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head after reduction surgery in children with developmental hip dysplasia (DDH), and to establish a prediction nomogram. Methods The clinical data of 134 children with DDH (169 hips) treated with closure reduction or open reduction from December 2016 to December 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Independent risk factors for AVN after DDH reduction being combined with cast external immobilization were determined by univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression and used to generate nomograms predicting the occurrence of AVN. Results A total of 169 hip joints in 134 children met the inclusion criteria, with a mean age at surgery of 10.7 ± 4.56 months (range: 4–22 months) and a mean follow-up duration of 38.32 ± 27.00 months (range: 12–94 months). AVN developed in 42 hip joints (24.9%); univariate analysis showed that the International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI) grade, preoperative development of the femoral head ossification nucleus, cartilage acetabular index, femoral head to acetabular Y-shaped cartilage distance, residual acetabular dysplasia, acetabular abduction angle exceeding 60°, and the final follow-up acetabular index (AI) were associated with the development of AVN (P

Abstract Background The diagnostic complexities that arise in radiographic distinction between ectopic pleural thymoma and other thoracic neoplasms are substantial, with instances of co-occurring T-cell lymphocytosis and osseous metastasis being exceedingly rare. Case presentation A 51-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital with dyspnea and chest pain. Upon imaging examination, she was found to have diffuse and nodular pleural thickening on the left side, collapse of the left lung and a compression in the second thoracic vertebrae. All lesions showed significant 18F-FDG uptake on 18F-FDG PET/CT examination. Furthermore, she exhibited T-cell lymphocytosis in her peripheral blood, lymph nodes, and bone marrow. After ruling out malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM), lung cancer with pleural metastasis, and T-cell lymphoma, the definitive diagnosis asserted was ectopic pleural thymoma with T-cell lymphocytosis and bone metastasis. Conclusion Physicians need to expand their knowledge of the imaging features of ectopic pleural thymoma. Cases with T-cell lymphocytosis may exhibit increased aggressiveness and prone to bone metastasis.

Abstract Surface coal development activities include mining and ecological restoration, which significantly impact regional carbon sinks. Quantifying the dynamic impacts on carbon sequestration in vegetation (VCS) during coal development activities has been challenging. Here, we provided a novel approach to assess the dynamics of VCS affected by large-scale surface coal mining and subsequent restoration. This approach effectively overcomes the limitations imposed by the lack of finer scale and long-time series data through scale transformation. We found that mining activities directly decreased VCS by 384.63 Gg CO2, while restoration activities directly increased 192.51 Gg CO2 between 2001 and 2022. As of 2022, the deficit in VCS at the mining areas still had 1966.7 Gg CO2. The study highlights that complete restoration requires compensating not only for the loss in the year of destruction but also for the ongoing accumulation of losses throughout the mining lifecycle. The findings deepen insights into the intricate relationship between coal resource development and ecological environmental protection.

Abstract Background Myocardial infarction (MI) leads to enhanced activity of cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) and abnormal deposition of extracellular matrix proteins, resulting in cardiac fibrosis. Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5 (ACP5) has been shown to promote cell proliferation and phenotypic transition. However, it remains unclear whether ACP5 is involved in the development of cardiac fibrosis after MI. The present study aimed to investigate the role of ACP5 in post-MI fibrosis and its potential underlying mechanisms. Methods Clinical blood samples were collected to detect ACP5 concentration. Myocardial fibrosis was induced by ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery. The ACP5 inhibitor, AubipyOMe, was administered by intraperitoneal injection. Cardiac function and morphological changes were observed on Day 28 after injury. Cardiac CFs from neonatal mice were extracted to elucidate the underlying mechanism in vitro. The expression of ACP5 was silenced by small interfering RNA (siRNA) and overexpressed by adeno-associated viruses to evaluate its effect on CF activation. Results The expression of ACP5 was increased in patients with MI, mice with MI, and mice with Ang II-induced fibrosis in vitro. AubipyOMe inhibited cardiac fibrosis and improved cardiac function in mice after MI. ACP5 inhibition reduced cell proliferation, migration, and phenotypic changes in CFs in vitro, while adenovirus-mediated ACP5 overexpression had the opposite effect. Mechanistically, the classical profibrotic pathway of glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK3β)/β-catenin was changed with ACP5 modulation, which indicated that ACP5 had a positive regulatory effect. Furthermore, the inhibitory effect of ACP5 deficiency on the GSK3β/β-catenin pathway was counteracted by an ERK activator, which indicated that ACP5 regulated GSK3β activity through ERK-mediated phosphorylation, thereby affecting β-catenin degradation. Conclusion ACP5 may influence the proliferation, migration, and phenotypic transition of CFs, leading to the development of myocardial fibrosis after MI through modulating the ERK/GSK3β/β-catenin signaling pathway.

Abstract Hypoxia can cause a variety of diseases, including ischemic stroke and neurodegenerative diseases. Within a certain range of partial pressure of oxygen, cells can respond to changes in oxygen. Changes in oxygen concentration beyond a threshold will cause damage or even necrosis of tissues and organs, especially for the central nervous system. Therefore, it is very important to find appropriate measures to alleviate damage. MiRNAs can participate in the regulation of hypoxic responses in various types of cells. MiRNAs are involved in regulating hypoxic responses in many types of tissues by activating the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) to affect angiogenesis, glycolysis and other biological processes. By analyzing differentially expressed miRNAs in hypoxia and hypoxia-related studies, as well as the HT22 neuronal cell line under hypoxic stress, we found that the expression of miR-18a was changed in these models. MiR-18a could regulate glucose metabolism in HT22 cells under hypoxic stress by directly regulating the 3’UTR of the Hif1a gene. As a small molecule, miRNAs are easy to be designed into small nucleic acid drugs, so this study can provide a theoretical basis for the research and treatment of nervous system diseases caused by hypoxia. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Background The strong invasiveness and rapid expansion of dengue virus (DENV) pose a great challenge to global public health. However, dengue epidemic patterns and mechanisms at a genetic scale, particularly in term of cross-border transmissions, remain poorly understood. Importation is considered as the primary driver of dengue outbreaks in China, and since 1990 a frequent occurrence of large outbreaks has been triggered by the imported cases and subsequently spread to the western and northern parts of China. Therefore, this study aims to systematically reveal the invasion and diffusion patterns of DENV-1 in Guangdong, China from 1990 to 2019. Methods These analyses were performed on 179 newly assembled genomes from indigenous dengue cases in Guangdong, China and 5152 E gene complete sequences recorded in Chinese mainland. The genetic population structure and epidemic patterns of DENV-1 circulating in Chinese mainland were characterized by phylogenetics, phylogeography, phylodynamics based on DENV-1 E-gene-based globally unified genotyping framework. Results Multiple serotypes of DENV were co-circulating in Chinese mainland, particularly in Guangdong and Yunnan provinces. A total of 189 transmission clusters in 38 clades belonging to 22 subgenotypes of genotype I, IV and V of DENV-1 were identified, with 7 Clades of Concern (COCs) responsible for the large outbreaks since 1990. The epidemic periodicity was inferred from the data to be approximately 3 years. Dengue transmission events mainly occurred from Great Mekong Subregion-China (GMS-China), Southeast Asia (SEA), South Asia Subcontinent (SASC), and Oceania (OCE) to coastal and land border cities respectively in southeastern and southwestern China. Specially, Guangzhou was found to be the most dominant receipting hub, where DENV-1 diffused to other cities within the province and even other parts of the country. Genome phylogeny combined with epidemiological investigation demonstrated a clear local consecutive transmission process of a 5C1 transmission cluster (5C1-CN4) of DENV-1 in Guangzhou from 2013 to 2015, while the two provinces of Guangdong and Yunnan played key roles in ongoing transition of dengue epidemic patterns. In contextualizing within Invasion Biology theories, we have proposed a derived three-stage model encompassing the stages of invasion, colonization, and dissemination, which is supposed to enhance our understanding of dengue spreading patterns. Conclusions This study demonstrates the invasion and diffusion process of DENV-1 in Chinese mainland within a global genotyping framework, characterizing the genetic diversities of viral populations, multiple sources of importation, and periodic dynamics of the epidemic. These findings highlight the potential ongoing transition trends from epidemic to endemic status offering a valuable insight into early warning, prevention and control of rapid spreading of dengue both in China and worldwide. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Background Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is closely associated with the triglyceride glucose (TyG) index and its related indicators, particularly its combination with obesity indices. However, there is limited research on the relationship between changes in TyG-related indices and CVD, as most studies have focused on baseline TyG-related indices. Methods The data for this prospective cohort study were obtained from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. The exposures were changes in TyG-related indices and cumulative TyG-related indices from 2012 to 2015. The K-means algorithm was used to classify changes in each TyG-related index into four classes (Class 1 to Class 4). Multivariate logistic regressions were used to evaluate the associations between the changes in TyG-related indices and the incidence of CVD. Results In total, 3243 participants were included in this study, of whom 1761 (54.4%) were female, with a mean age of 57.62 years at baseline. Over a 5-year follow-up, 637 (19.6%) participants developed CVD. Fully adjusted logistic regression analyses revealed significant positive associations between changes in TyG-related indices, cumulative TyG-related indices and the incidence of CVD. Among these changes in TyG-related indices, changes in TyG-waist circumference (WC) showed the strongest association with incident CVD. Compared to the participants in Class 1 of changes in TyG-WC, the odds ratio (OR) for participants in Class 2 was 1.41 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.08–1.84), the OR for participants in Class 3 was 1.54 (95% CI 1.15–2.07), and the OR for participants in Class 4 was 1.94 (95% CI 1.34–2.80). Moreover, cumulative TyG-WC exhibited the strongest association with incident CVD among cumulative TyG-related indices. Compared to the participants in Quartile 1 of cumulative TyG-WC, the OR for participants in Quartile 2 was 1.33 (95% CI 1.00–1.76), the OR for participants in Quartile 3 was 1.46 (95% CI 1.09–1.96), and the OR for participants in Quartile 4 was 1.79 (95% CI 1.30–2.47). Conclusions Changes in TyG-related indices are independently associated with the risk of CVD. Changes in TyG-WC are expected to become more effective indicators for identifying individuals at a heightened risk of CVD.

Abstract Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic and recurrent inflammatory disease that affects the colon and rectum. The response to treatment varies among individuals with UC. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify and explore potential biomarkers for different subtypes of UC and examine their association with immune cell infiltration. We obtained UC RNA sequencing data from the GEO database, which included the training set GSE92415 and the validation set GSE87473 and GSE72514. UC patients were classified based on GLS and its associated genes using consensus clustering analysis. We identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in different UC subtypes through a differential expression analysis of the training cohort. Machine learning algorithms, including Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis (WGCNA), Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO), and Support Vector Machine Recursive Feature Elimination (SVM-RFE), were utilized to identify marker genes for UC. The CIBERSORT algorithm was used to determine the abundance of various immune cells in UC and their correlation with UC signature genes. Finally, we validated the expression of GLS through in vivo and ex vivo experiments. The expression of GLS was found to be elevated in patients with UC compared to normal patients. GLS and its related genes were able to classify UC patients into two subtypes, C1 and C2. The C1 subtype, as compared to the C2 subtype, showed a higher Mayo score and poorer treatment response. A total of 18 DEGs were identified in both subtypes, including 7 up-regulated and 11 down-regulated genes. Four UC signature genes (CWH43, HEPACAM2, IL24, and PCK1) were identified and their diagnostic value was validated in a separate cohort (AUC > 0.85). Furthermore, we found that UC signature biomarkers were linked to the immune cell infiltration. CWH43, HEPACAM2, IL24, and PCK1 may serve as potential biomarkers for diagnosing different subtypes of UC, which could contribute to the development of targeted molecular therapy and immunotherapy for UC.

Abstract Previous observational inquiries have revealed a correlation between depression and infectious maladies. This study seeks to elucidate the causal linkages between depression, specifically Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), and infectious diseases. Nevertheless, the causative nature of the association between MDD and infectious diseases remains elusive. Two-sample Mendelian Randomization (MR) analyses was executed utilizing single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) significantly connected with MDD and infectious diseases as instrumental variables (IVs). A series of sensitivity analyses were subsequently conducted. Genetic variants linked to MDD were employed as instrumental variables sourced from a genome-wide meta-analyses comprising 500,199 individuals. Summary-level data on five infectious diseases, including candidiasis, pneumonia, skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI), upper respiratory tract infections (URTI), and urinary tract infections (UTI), were acquired from the UK Biobank and FinnGen study. Our findings evinced that genetically predicted MDD exhibited a heightened risk of candidiasis (OR = 1.52, 95% CI 1.06–2.17; P = 2.38E-02), pneumonia (OR = 1.14, 95% CI 1.01–1.29; P = 3.16E-02), URTI (OR = 1.23, 95% CI 1.12–1.36; P = 3.71E-05), and UTI (OR = 1.26, 95% CI 1.12–1.42; P = 8.90E-05). Additionally, we identified bidirectional causal relationships between UTI and MDD. The associations between MDD and the risk of URTI and UTI remained consistent in multivariable MR analyses, accounting for genetically predicted smoking and body mass index. In conclusion, this investigation ascertained a causal connection between MDD and the susceptibility to infectious diseases, particularly URTI and UTI.

Glutamine, one of the most abundant amino acids in the body, has been shown to exert various beneficial effects in pigs. However, knowledge regarding the role of dietary glutamine in low-protein diet-fed piglets remains scarce. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of different levels of L-glutamine on growth performance, serum biochemistry parameters, redox status, amino acids, and fecal microbiota in low-protein diet-fed piglets. A total of 128 healthy crossbred piglets (Landrace × Yorkshire) were randomly allocated into 4 groups of 4 replicate pens, with 8 piglets per pen. Piglets in the 4 groups were fed with corn and soybean meal-based low-protein diets (crude protein level, 17%) that contained 0%, 1%, 2%, and 3% L-glutamine, respectively, for 28 d. Pigs administered 1% L-glutamine had greater body weight on d 28 and average daily gain (ADG, P

Guizhou Province is located in Southwest of China, with many mountains and hills, and is a typical karst topography and geomorphology area with frequent geological disasters such as collapses and landslides. The existing dangerous rock mass in the Xiaotunyan collapse zone in Sinan County has large range and volume, and fissures, concave cavities, and solution caves have developed. Objective In order to study the failure probability of passive protection nets for rockfalls in typical karst areas. Methods A three-dimensional model of the collapse zone through high-precision realistic modeling technology was constructed, by which the movement process of collapsed falling rocks was simulated. According to the results of the field investigation, aerial photography of the unmanned aerial vehicle and numerical simulation, an appropriate rockfall location layout for the passive protection net was selected. And based on the identification of the rockfall particle size, the different rockfall particle sizes were selected to simulate the interception effect of the passive protection net, then the failure probability of the passive protective net can be calculated. Results The results show that the rockfall breakthrough rates of 13 particle sizes vary: the interception effect of small to medium sized falling rocks with particle sizes ranging from 0.25 m to 2.25 m is effective, but the interception rate of passive protection net cannot reach 100%. When the particle size is larger than 2.25 m, the passive protection net fails, that is the upper limit of the design of the passive protection net under the Xiaotunyan collapse zone is the 2.25 m particle size of rockfall. According to the calculation, the failure probability of all rockfall particle sizes intercepted by the passive protection net is less than 5%, which is within the acceptable scope. Conclusion The research results provide a reference for rockfall protection measures in the Xiaotunyan collapse zone and are of great significance for the protection of life and property safety for people in karst mountainous areas.

Abstract For highly autonomous vehicles, human does not need to operate continuously vehicles. The brain-computer interface system in autonomous vehicles will highly depend on the brain states of passengers rather than those of human drivers. It is a meaningful and vital choice to translate the mental activities of human beings, essentially playing the role of advanced sensors, into safe driving. Quantifying the driving risk cognition of passengers is a basic step toward this end. This study reports the creation of an fNIRS dataset focusing on the prefrontal cortex activity in fourteen types of highly automated driving scenarios. This dataset considers age, sex and driving experience factors and contains the data collected from an 8-channel fNIRS device and the data of driving scenarios. The dataset provides data support for distinguishing the driving risk in highly automated driving scenarios via brain-computer interface systems, and it also provides the possibility of preventing potential hazards in some scenarios, in which risk remains at a high value for an extended period, before hazard occurs.

Abstract Background The patterns of blood pressure (BP) change throughout the pregnancy were related to adverse birth outcomes. However, little is known about the long-term effect of BP change patterns on child neurodevelopment. This study aimed to explore the relationship between the BP trajectory and BP variability during pregnancy and early childhood neurodevelopment. Method A total of 2797 mother-newborn pairs were derived from the Wuhan Healthy Baby Cohort Study. BP was measured during each antenatal visit, and Mental and Psychomotor Development Indexes (MDI and PDI) were assessed using the Bayley Scales of Infant Development (BSID) when the children were 2 years old. Delayed neurodevelopment was defined as scores of PDI or MDI less than − 1SD relative to the mean score of the study population. A group-based multi-trajectory model was adopted to identify multi-trajectories of systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). Visit-to-visit BP variability was assessed by the coefficient of variation (CV), standard deviation (SD), and average real variability (ARV). Generalized linear models and multivariate logistic regressions were used to assess the associations of BP trajectories and variability with BSID scores and delayed neurodevelopment, respectively. Results Five distinct trajectories for SBP and DBP were identified, namely, “Low-increasing,” “Low-stable,” “Moderate-decreasing,” “Moderate-increasing,” and “High-stable” groups. Compared with the “Low-stable” group, the children whose mothers’ BP fell into the other four groups had lower PDI scores, and mothers in the “Low-increasing,” “Moderate-increasing,” and “Moderate-decreasing” groups had 43% (OR: 1.43, 95% CI: 1.01, 2.03), 48% (OR: 1.48, 95% CI: 1.05, 2.08) and 45% (OR:1.45, 95% CI: 1.03, 2.04) higher risk of having offspring with delayed psychomotor neurodevelopment, respectively. High DBP variability was associated with lower BSID scores, and delayed psychomotor neurodevelopment (OR = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.10, 1.92 for DBP-SD; OR = 1.53, 95% CI: 1.16, 2.02 for DBP-CV). Conclusion Our findings suggest that BP change patterns assessed by multi-trajectory and visit-to-visit variability were associated with lower BSID scores and delayed neurodevelopment. Health professionals should be aware of the influence of BP level and its oscillations during pregnancy on the risk of delayed neurodevelopment.

Abstract Chili pepper (Capsicum) is known for its unique fruit pungency due to the presence of capsaicinoids. The evolutionary history of capsaicinoid biosynthesis and the mechanism of their tissue specificity remain obscure due to the lack of high-quality Capsicum genomes. Here, we report two telomere-to-telomere (T2T) gap-free genomes of C. annuum and its wild nonpungent relative C. rhomboideum to investigate the evolution of fruit pungency in chili peppers. We precisely delineate Capsicum centromeres, which lack high-copy tandem repeats but are extensively invaded by CRM retrotransposons. Through phylogenomic analyses, we estimate the evolutionary timing of capsaicinoid biosynthesis. We reveal disrupted coding and regulatory regions of key biosynthesis genes in nonpungent species. We also find conserved placenta-specific accessible chromatin regions, which likely allow for tissue-specific biosynthetic gene coregulation and capsaicinoid accumulation. These T2T genomic resources will accelerate chili pepper genetic improvement and help to understand Capsicum genome evolution.

Abstract Background Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a complex and progressive illness that has a multifaceted origin, significant fatality rates, and profound effects on health. The pathogenesis of PAH is poorly defined due to the insufficient understanding of the combined impact of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and immune infiltration, both of which play vital roles in PAH development. This study aims to identify potential ER stress-related biomarkers in PAH and investigate their involvement in immune infiltration. Methods The GEO database was used to download gene expression profiles. Genes associated with ER stress were obtained from the MSigDB database. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), GO, KEGG, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) were utilized to conduct screening of hub genes and explore potential molecular mechanisms. Furthermore, the investigation also delved into the presence of immune cells in PAH tissues and the correlation between hub genes and the immune system. Finally, we validated the diagnostic value and expression levels of the hub genes in PAH using subject-workup characterization curves and real-time quantitative PCR. Results In the PAH and control groups, a total of 31 genes related to ER stress were found to be differentially expressed. The enrichment analysis revealed that these genes were primarily enriched in reacting to stress in the endoplasmic reticulum, dealing with unfolded proteins, transporting proteins, and processing proteins within the endoplasmic reticulum. EIF2S1, NPLOC4, SEC61B, SYVN1, and DERL1 were identified as the top 5 hub genes in the PPI network. Immune infiltration analysis revealed that these hub genes were closely related to immune cells. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves revealed that the hub genes exhibited excellent diagnostic efficacy for PAH. The levels of SEC61B, NPLOC4, and EIF2S1 expression were in agreement with the findings of bioinformatics analysis in the PAH group. Conclusions Potential biomarkers that could be utilized are SEC61B, NPLOC4, and EIF2S1, as identified in this study. The infiltration of immune cells was crucial to the development and advancement of PAH. This study provided new potential therapeutic targets for PAH.

Abstract Rosa roxburghii Tratt, a valuable plant in China with long history, is famous for its fruit. It possesses various secondary metabolites, such as L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C), alkaloids and poly saccharides, which make it a high nutritional and medicinal value. Here we characterized the chromosome-level genome sequence of R. roxburghii, comprising seven pseudo-chromosomes with a total size of 531 Mb and a heterozygosity of 0.25%. We also annotated 45,226 coding gene loci after masking repeat elements. Orthologs for 90.1% of the Complete Single-Copy BUSCOs were found in the R. roxburghii annotation. By aligning with protein sequences from public platform, we annotated 85.89% genes from R. roxburghii. Comparative genomic analysis revealed that R. roxburghii diverged from Rosa chinensis approximately 5.58 to 13.17 million years ago, and no whole-genome duplication event occurred after the divergence from eudicots. To fully utilize this genomic resource, we constructed a genomic database RroFGD with various analysis tools. Otherwise, 69 enzyme genes involved in L-ascorbate biosynthesis were identified and a key enzyme in the biosynthesis of vitamin C, GDH (L-Gal-1-dehydrogenase), is used as an example to introduce the functions of the database. This genome and database will facilitate the future investigations into gene function and molecular breeding in R. roxburghii.

Abstract Numerous algorithms have been proposed to identify cell types in single-cell RNA sequencing data, yet a fundamental problem remains: determining associations between cells and phenotypes such as cancer. We develop SCIPAC, the first algorithm that quantitatively estimates the association between each cell in single-cell data and a phenotype. SCIPAC also provides a p-value for each association and applies to data with virtually any type of phenotype. We demonstrate SCIPAC’s accuracy in simulated data. On four real cancerous or noncancerous datasets, insights from SCIPAC help interpret the data and generate new hypotheses. SCIPAC requires minimum tuning and is computationally very fast.

Abstract Background Although ultrasonography (US) has been widely used in the diagnosis of human diseases to monitor the progress of cystic echinococcosis (CE) control, the screening method for hepatic CE in sheep flocks requires adjustment. In this study, we used a US scanner to screen sheep flocks and evaluated the efficacy of dosing dogs once a year with praziquantel for 7 years from 2014 to 2021. Methods All sheep in the three flocks were screened using an ultrasound scanner in 2014 and compared with the prevalence of infection in 2021 in Bayinbuluke, Xinjiang, China. Sheep age was determined using incisor teeth. Cyst activity and calcification were determined using US images. The dogs were dewormed with praziquantel once a year to control echinococcosis in the community. Results Three flocks had 968 sheep in 2014, with 13.22%, 22.62%, 18.7%, 27.27%, 11.88%, and 6.3% of sheep aged 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and ≥ 6 years old, respectively. US scanning revealed that the overall CE prevalence was 38.43% (372/968), with active cysts and calcified cysts present in 9.40% (91/968) and 29.02% (281/968) of the sheep, respectively. For the young sheep aged 1 and 2 years, the prevalence of active and calcified cysts was: 1.56% and 0.91%, and 10.94% and 18.72%, respectively. Approximately 15.15% and 16.52% of the 4- and 5-year-old sheep, respectively, harbored active cysts. There was no significant difference in the infection rates of sheep between 2014 and 2021 (P > 0.05). Conclusions US is a practical tool for the field screening of CE in sheep flocks. One-third of the sheep population in the flocks was 1–2 years old, and these sheep played a very limited role in CE transmission, as most of the cysts were calcified. Old sheep, especially culled aged sheep, play a key role in the transmission of CE. Dosing dogs once a year did not affect echinococcosis control.

Enzymatic malonylation of natural glycosides provides a promising alternative method for drug-like malonylated glycosides supply. However, the catalytic potential and structural basis of plant malonyltransferase are far from being fully elucidated. This work identified a new malonyltransferase CtMaT1 from Cistanche tubulosa. It displayed unprecedented mono- and/or di-malonylation activity toward diverse glucosides with different aglycons. A “one-pot” system by CtMaT1 and a malonyl-CoA synthetase was established to biosynthesize nine new malonylated glucosides. Structural investigations revealed that CtMaT1 possesses an adequately spacious acyl-acceptor pocket capable of accommodating diverse glucosides. Additionally, it recognizes malonyl-CoA through strong electrotactic and hydrogen interactions. QM/MM calculation revealed the H167-mediated SN2 reaction mechanism of CtMaT1, while dynamic simulations detected the formation of stable hydrogen bonds between the glucose-6-OH group and H167, resulting in its high malonylation regiospecificity. Calculated energy profiles of two isomeric glycosides highlighted lower reaction energy barriers towards glucoside substrates, emphasizing CtMaT1's preference for glucosides. Furthermore, a mutant CtMaT1H36A with notably increased di-malonylation activity was obtained. The underlying molecular mechanism was illuminated through MM/GBSA binding free energy calculation. This study significantly advances the understanding of plant acyltransferases from both functional and protein structural perspectives, while also providing a versatile tool for enzymatic malonylation applications in pharmacology.

Abstract Background Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) commonly occurs after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). Risk factors for DGE have been reported in open PD but are rarely reported in laparoscopic PD (LPD). This study was designed to evaluate the perioperative risk factors for DGE and secondary DGE after LPD in a single center. Methods This retrospective cohort study included patients who underwent LPD between October 2014 and April 2023. Demographic data, preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative data were collected. The risk factors for DGE and secondary DGE were analyzed. Results A total of 827 consecutive patients underwent LPD. One hundred and forty-two patients (17.2%) developed DGE of any type. Sixty-five patients (7.9%) had type A, 62 (7.5%) had type B, and the remaining 15 (1.8%) had type C DGE. Preoperative biliary drainage (p = 0.032), blood loss (p = 0.014), and 90-day any major complication with Dindo-Clavien score ≥ III (p

Abstract Background As a primary vector of bluetongue virus (BTV) in the US, seasonal abundance and diel flight activity of Culicoides sonorensis has been documented, but few studies have examined how time of host-seeking activity is impacted by environmental factors. This knowledge is essential for interpreting surveillance data and modeling pathogen transmission risk. Methods The diel host-seeking activity of C. sonorensis was studied on a California dairy over 3 years using a time-segregated trap baited with CO2. The relationship between environmental variables and diel host-seeking activity (start, peak, and duration of activity) of C. sonorensis was evaluated using multiple linear regression. Fisher’s exact test and paired-sample z-test were used to evaluate the seasonal difference and parity difference on diel host-seeking activity. Results Host-seeking by C. sonorensis began and reached an activity peak before sunset at a higher frequency during colder months relative to warmer months. The time that host-seeking activity occurred was associated low and high daily temperature as well as wind speed at sunset. Colder temperatures and a greater diurnal temperature range were associated with an earlier peak in host-seeking. Higher wind speeds at sunset were associated with a delayed peak in host-seeking and a shortened duration of host-seeking. Parous midges reached peak host-seeking activity slightly later than nulliparous midges, possibly because of the need for oviposition by gravid females before returning to host-seeking. Conclusions This study demonstrates that during colder months C. sonorensis initiates host-seeking and reaches peak host-seeking activity earlier relative to sunset, often even before sunset, compared to warmer months. Therefore, the commonly used UV light-baited traps are ineffective for midge surveillance before sunset. Based on this study, surveillance methods that do not rely on light trapping would provide a more accurate estimate of host-biting risk across seasons. The association of environmental factors to host-seeking shown in this study can be used to improve modeling or prediction of host-seeking activity. This study identified diurnal temperature range as associated with host-seeking activity, suggesting that Culicoides may respond to a rapidly decreasing temperature by shifting to an earlier host-seeking time, though this association needs further study. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) commonly precedes ventricular remodeling, heart failure. Few dynamic molecular signatures have gained widespread acceptance in mainstream clinical testing despite the discovery of many potential candidates. These unmet needs with respect to biomarker and drug discovery of AMI necessitate a prioritization. We enrolled patients with AMI aged between 30 and 70. RNA-seq analysis was performed on the peripheral blood mononuclear cells collected from the patients at three time points: 1 day, 7 days, and 3 months after AMI. PLC/LC–MS analysis was conducted on the peripheral blood plasma collected from these patients at the same three time points. Differential genes and metabolites between groups were screened by bio-informatics methods to understand the dynamic changes of AMI in different periods. We obtained 15 transcriptional and 95 metabolite expression profiles at three time points after AMI through high-throughput sequencing. AMI-1d: enrichment analysis revealed the biological features of 1 day after AMI primarily included acute inflammatory response, elevated glycerophospholipid metabolism, and decreased protein synthesis capacity. Phosphatidylcholine (PC) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) might stand promising biomarkers to differentiate post-AMI stage. Anti-inflammatory therapy during the acute phase is an important direction for preventing related pathology. AMI-7d: the biological features of this stage primarily involved the initiation of cardiac fibrosis response and activation of platelet adhesion pathways. Accompanied by upregulated TGF-beta signaling pathway and ECM receptor interaction, GP5 help assess platelet activation, a potential therapeutic target to improve haemostasis. AMI-3m: the biological features of 3 months after AMI primarily showed a vascular regeneration response with VEGF signaling pathway, NOS3 and SHC2 widely activated, which holds promise for providing new therapeutic approaches for AMI. Our analysis highlights transcriptional and metabolomics signatures at different time points after MI, which deepens our understanding of the dynamic biological responses and associated molecular mechanisms that occur during cardiac repair.

Objective Given the intricate challenges and potential complications associated with periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). Our study aimed to compare the clinical and imaging benefits and drawbacks of two surgical approaches, the modified Stoppa combined iliac spine approach and the modified Smith–Peterson approach, for treating PAO and to provide guidance for selecting clinical approaches. Methods A retrospective analysis of 56 patients with 62 DDHs was conducted from June 2018 to January 2022. The experimental group underwent surgery via the modified Stoppa combined iliac spine approach, while the control group underwent surgery via the modified Smith–Peterson approach for periacetabular osteotomy and internal fixation. Basic statistical parameters, including age, sex, BMI, and preoperative imaging data, were analyzed. Differences in surgical time, intraoperative blood loss, and postoperative imaging data were compared, as were differences in preoperative and postoperative imaging data between the two groups. Results There were 28 hips in the experimental group and 34 in the control group. Moreover, there was no significant difference in the basic parameters between the experimental and control groups. Before and after the operation, for the LCE angle, ACE angle, and Tonnis angle, there was no significant difference in acetabular coverage (p > 0.05). However, there were significant differences between the two groups in terms of the above four indicators before and after the operation (p

Abstract The present study aimed to prepare and evaluate a new probiotic functional beverage, using single‐probiotic and compound probiotic fermentation on okara. Four different forms of fermentation microorganisms used were Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus S24 (Lr), Lacticaseibacillus paracasei 6244 (Lp), Lactobacillus acidophilus 11,073 (La), and mixed fermentation (Lr + Lp + La). The physicochemical properties, antioxidant activity, flavor change, and storage period of fermented okara beverages with probiotics were investigated. The results showed that different fermentation schemes could significantly improve the physicochemical properties, antioxidant activity, and sensory quality of the okara beverages. The number of viable bacteria in the Lp group (3.53 × 108 CFU/mL), isoflavone content (0.514 μg/mL) were the highest; total phenol and flavonoid content were 3.32 and 5.68 times higher than in the CK group, respectively. DPPH and ABTS+ free radical scavenging rates were increased by 11.32% and 20%, respectively (p

In recent years, to liberate coal resources from high pressure limestone water on the coal seam floor, North China Coalfields have generally adopted surface directional drilling technology to carry out regional grouting reinforcement and transformation (commonly known as “floor regional treatment”) on the thin-layer limestone of the Taiyuan Formation in order to comprehensively seal karst cracks in limestone and block vertical guide water channels. In this technology, the design of the spacing between “horizontal branching holes” closely related to the diffusion range (radius) of the slurry has been widely studied by academia and industry. There is a large amount of grouting work in the bottom plate area of the Anhui North mining area, especially in the mining of deep resources, which will cost billions of yuan. It is necessary to verify the true data of the diffusion range of the grout. Therefore, based on the Hengyuan Coal Mine in the northern Anhui mining area as the research base, relying on the II63 mining area floor area treatment project, the slurry diffusion range tracing test was designed and implemented. The fluorescent agent (tracer) was added to the horizontal branch hole (Z8-7) in the middle, and the rock debris samples were taken from the horizontal branch holes (Z8-6, Z8-8) and cross branch detection holes (Z8JC) on both sides to identify fluorescent cement and obtain the diffusion range of the slurry. Furthermore, based on the analysis of the influencing factors of slurry diffusion, a formula for calculating the diffusion range of slurry in the grouting treatment of the bottom plate area of the Hengyuan Coal Mine was constructed. The results show that: ① Based on the analysis of on-site and indoor identification results of rock debris, the diffusion range of grouting slurry under the coal seam floor area of the Hengyuan Coal Mine II63 mining area was 38.3−44.0 m, and the cement distribution was dense within the diffusion range of horizontal branch hole slurry within 30 meters. The grouting effect was the best in this area. ② Through a rapid identification of on-site rock cuttings and precise identification of indoor rock cuttings, the diffusion range of the slurry obtained was basically consistent, proving the effectiveness of fluorescence tracing of the diffusion range of the slurry. ③ Through comparative analysis, it was believed that under actual grouting conditions such as calculation parameters and boundary constraints, the theoretical calculation and numerical simulation results of the slurry diffusion range were close to the measured results of on-site tracing experiments. ④ Using the data from water pressure tests, grouting parameters, drilling structures, and hydrogeological responses during the tracer test process, taking into account the factors such as gravity, structure, and groundwater runoff, and using SPSS nonlinear fitting software, a formula for calculating the diffusion range of grouting slurry in the bottom plate area of the Hengyuan Coal Mine II63 mining area was obtained. ⑤ Based on the actual geological and hydrogeological conditions of the injection layer in the Hengyuan Coal Mine, using the fitted slurry diffusion range calculation formula, the slurry diffusion range of Z8 site in the II63 mining area was obtained to be 37.8−42.9 m, which was similar to the measured results of the slurry diffusion range tracer test. The calculation formula could be promoted and applied under similar conditions. The on-site tracing engineering test of the diffusion range of grouting slurry in the coal mine floor area not only obtained real data on the diffusion range of slurry, but also clarified the inherent relationship between slurry diffusion and various geological and hydrogeological factors. The diffusion mechanism of grouting slurry for ultra deep and ultra long directional drilling was revealed, and a formula for calculating the diffusion range of slurry was constructed, providing a reference basis for the reasonable design of horizontal branch hole spacing in bottom plate area treatment projects under similar conditions.

Mine ecological environment monitoring and governance is a critical requirement for national ecological civilization construction and the dual carbon goal. The informatization and intelligent construction of the mine ecological environment have become an important part of Digital China driven by the new generation of information technology, and it is also an inevitable trend in the development of the current era. However, existing mine ecological environment monitoring systems are still in the primary stage with a single theme, incomplete elements, basic measurement, and local management, and they cannot meet the demand for multi-element, long-term, high-frequency monitoring and analysis of the mine ecological environment. To address this problem, the quantitative remote sensing monitoring and intelligent analysis system for the mine ecological environment under B/S architecture is proposed, called Mine Ecology Remote Eyes. The development requirements, technical framework, key technologies, and core functions of the system are further described in detail. The system utilizes satellite remote sensing technology and other monitoring methods to obtain and aggregate mine ecological big data from different sources, forming a map of mine distribution and data resource services. Using quantitative remote sensing to invert ecological parameters of mine environments, a set of long-term and multi-element monitoring products can be generated. These products cover various ecological elements such as human activities, natural geographical conditions, and “vegetation-soil-water-atmosphere” parameters. The system provides a range of tools for GIS spatial and temporal analysis, statistical analysis, and comprehensive quantitative evaluation. With these tools, users can monitor spatial changes in ecological parameters such as land use and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) in mining areas along with mining activities, as well as query and visualize historical statistical values of ecological elements such as soil water content and suspended solids concentration in water under different spatiotemporal locations or regions. Additionally, the system enables comprehensive quantitative evaluation of the quality of the mine ecological environment taking into account multiple ecological elements. Finally, the system generates a monitoring report on ecological disturbance and governance of the mine. The application of Mine Ecology Remote Eyes will facilitate the change monitoring, data management, intelligent analysis, and decision-making applications of the mine ecological environment. This system has the potential to improve the efficiency and intelligence level of monitoring and governance of the mine ecological environment, and provides a reference for promoting the informatization of ecological civilization.

Methane, the second most prevalent greenhouse gas globally, is characterized by its high global warming potential and short atmospheric lifetime. It is primarily emitted from sectors such as coal mining, oil and gas production, agriculture, livestock rearing, and waste management. Active, prudent, and orderly control of methane emissions offers a multifaceted benefit: it mitigates global warming, enhances the economic value through the resource utilization of energy, provides environmental advantages by control of pollutants, and improves safety by reducing production accidents. Methane is also the principal greenhouse gas emitted in coal mine operations. Currently, monitoring and researching the distribution of methane emissions and their concentration within the three-dimensional space of coal mines have become a key focus in China’s methane emission control efforts, which is of significant importance for coal mining enterprises to align with national strategies. A study conducted on a high-gas mine in Shanxi and a low-gas mine in Shaanxi for methane emission monitoring and accounting utilized fixed monitoring, manual monitoring, drone monitoring, and post-mining activity monitoring to investigate the distribution of methane in high and low gas mines in China and to analyze their methane emissions. The results indicate that: ① The methane emission volumes for a certain high-gas mine in Shanxi and a low-gas mine in Shaanxi published by the U.S.-based Climate TRACE website for the year 2022 show a significant discrepancy from the results calculated using the ground measurement method, with the published annual methane emission volume for a certain low-gas mine being 10.92 times that of the ground measurement calculation. The top-down monitoring and accounting methods have been found to be insufficiently accurate and unable to provide reliable data support for carbon trading. ② In the monitoring and accounting of post-mining activities, the use of default values recommended by the IPCC results in methane emissions that are 3 to 5 times higher than those calculated using the ground measurement method, and there is a significant variation in the emissions calculated based on coal samples of different sizes and exposure durations. There is an urgent need for a unified and precise testing standard to ensure fair and accurate data for future carbon market transactions.

In view of the large-scale and efficient coal mining in ecologically fragile areas, which causes a large scope, long cycle and high intensity of ecological impacts, and the lack of a systematic technology that integrates the whole cycle of mining, source reduction and ecological elements, which leads to high costs, low efficiency and poor results in the ecological restoration of mining areas. This paper puts forward the concept of ecological protection coal mining, the damage conduction pathway of surface mining and the damage conduction model of shaft mining, the quantitative analysis method of ecological damage and the decision-making method of ecological restoration in mining areas. It has developed land-saving and loss-reducing mining for open pit mines, ecological stratigraphic reconstruction, distributed water resources collection, storage and use, and synergistic restoration technologies based on the "ecological restoration window period". It has researched and developed technologies for damage conduction control in well mining, ecological function restoration of aquifers, construction of assembled wedge-shaped groundwater reservoir dams, and ecological restoration of subsidence zones in time zones. An ecologically protected open pit mining demonstration project has been completed in the mengdong mining area, with the vegetation cover in the baorixile open pit mine demonstration area increasing from 30% to 59% of the pre-exploitation area, and that in the shengli open pit mine demonstration area from 5% to 39% of the pre-exploitation area. A demonstration project for ecologically protected coal mining in the shengdong wells has been completed, with vegetation cover increasing from less than 10% to 70 % of the pre-exploitation area. The research results provide scientific and technological support for eco-protective coal mining and have wide application and promotion value.

Mg-based hydrides are too stable and the kinetics of hydrogen absorption and desorption is not satisfactory. An efficient way to improve these shortcomings is to employ reactive ball milling to synthesize the nanocomposite materials of Mg and additives. In this experiment, TiF3 was selected as an additive, and the mechanical milling method was employed to prepare the experimental alloys. The alloys used in this experiment were the as-cast Ce5Mg85Ni10, as-milled Ce5Mg85Ni10 and Ce5Mg85Ni10 + 3 wt.% TiF3. The phase transformation, structural evolution, isothermal and non-isothermal hydrogenation and dehydrogenation performances of the alloys were inspected by XRD, SEM, TEM, Sievert apparatus, DSC and TGA. It revealed that nanocrystalline appeared in the as-milled samples. Compared with the as-cast alloy, ball milling made the particle dimension and grain size decrease dramatically and the defect density increase significantly. The addition of TiF3 made the surface of ball milling alloy particles markedly coarser and more irregular. Ball milling and adding TiF3 distinctly improved the activation and kinetics of the alloys. Moreover, ball milling along with TiF3 can decrease the onset dehydrogenation temperature of Mg-based hydrides and slightly ameliorate their thermodynamics.

Spontaneous combustion of coal in goaf is one of the main factors inducing mine fire, which accounts for 90% of mine fire. In order to achieve accurate prevention and control of spontaneous combustion in goaf, it is necessary to accurately obtain the high temperature point temperature in goaf. Based on Yanbei Coal Mine as the engineering background, this paper analyzes the index gases produced during the oxidation and heating process of coal samples, establishes the index system of coal spontaneous combustion temperature prediction, and then carries out the research of multi-index gas coal spontaneous combustion temperature prediction based on deep learning. Firstly, the coal samples collected from Yanbei Coal Mine were tested for coal oxidation and temperature rise. According to the experimental results, they were divided into single gas index and compound gas index. The change law of each index with temperature rise was analyzed, and the appropriate index was determined as the prediction index of coal spontaneous combustion temperature. The prediction index of coal spontaneous combustion temperature is processed by multi-source data processing method, the data is cleaned by Cook distance method and multiple interpolation method, and the prediction index system of coal spontaneous combustion temperature is established by grey correlation analysis method. Elman neural network was used to build a prediction model, and after determining the model structure and hyper-parameters, a prediction model of coal spontaneous combustion temperature was established to obtain an accurate prediction of the temperature in the process of coal oxidation and heating.

Abstract Kagome superconductors AV3Sb5 (A = K, Rb, and Cs) have attracted enormous interest due to the coexistence of charge density wave (CDW) order, unconventional superconductivity (SC) and anomalous Hall effect (AHE). In this paper, we reported an intensive investigation on Cs(V1−x Ta x )3Sb5 single crystals with systematic Ta doping. Ta was confirmed to be doped into V-site in the Kagome layer from both single crystal X-ray diffraction structural refinement and scanning transmission electron microscopy observation. The highest Ta doping level was found to be about 16%, which is more than twice as much as 7% in Nb-doped CsV3Sb5. With the increase of Ta doping, CDW order was gradually suppressed and finally vanished when the doping level reached to more than 8%. Meanwhile, superconductivity was enhanced with a maximum critical temperature (Tc) of 5.3 K, which is the highest Tc in the bulk crystal of this Kagome system at ambient pressure so far. The μ 0 H c2(T) behavior demonstrates that the system is still a two-band superconductor after Ta doping. Based on the electrical transport measurement, a phase diagram was set up to exhibit the evolution of CDW and SC in the Cs(V1−x Ta x )3Sb5 system. These findings pave a new way to search for new superconductors with higher Tc in the AV3Sb5 family and establish a new platform for tuning and controlling the multiple orders and superconducting states.