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Abstract The fourth energy revolution is characterized by the incorporation of renewable energy supplies into intelligent networks. As the world is shifting towards cleaner energy sources, there is a need for efficient and reliable methods to predict the output of renewable energy plants. Hybrid machine learning modified models are emerging as a promising solution for energy generation prediction. Renewable energy generation plants, such as solar, biogas, hydropower plants, wind farms, etc. are becoming increasingly popular due to their environmental benefits. However, their output can be highly variable and dependent on weather conditions, making integrating them into the existing energy grid challenging. Smart grids with artificial intelligent systems have the potential to solve this challenge by using real-time data to optimize energy production and distribution. Although by incorporating sensors, analytics, and automation, these grids can manage energy demand and supply more efficiently, reducing carbon emissions, increase energy security, and improve access to electricity in remote areas. However, this research aims to enhance the efficiency of solar power generation systems in a smart grid context using machine learning hybrid models such as Hybrid Convolutional-Recurrence Net (HCRN), Hybrid Convolutional-LSTM Net (HCLN), and Hybrid Convolutional-GRU Net (HCGRN). For this purpose, this study considers various parameters of a solar plant such as power production (MWh), irradiance or plane of array (POA), and performance ratio (PR). The HCLN model demonstrates superior accuracy with the RMSE values of 0.012027 for MWh, 0.013734 for POA and 0.003055 for PR, along with the lowest MAE values of 0.069523 for MWh, 0.082813 for POA, and 0.042815 for PR. The obtained results suggest that the proposed machine learning models can effectively enhance the efficiency of solar power generation systems by accurately predicting the required measurements.

Abstract Objective In this study, we investigated the efficacy of percutaneous poking reduction and Kirschner wire fixation in older children with irreducible supracondylar flexion-type fractures of the humerus. Methods This retrospective investigation included 27 children, comprising 15 males and 12 females, aged between 10 years and 3 months to 14 years and 11 months, all diagnosed with a flexion-type supracondylar fracture of the humerus within one week of trauma. All patients underwent surgery under general anesthesia. Following unsuccessful manual reduction, percutaneous poking reduction with Kirschner wires was performed under C-arm fluoroscopy to achieve fracture reduction. Following successful reduction, three 2.0 mm Kirschner wires were inserted in a cross pattern to secure the fracture ends. Postoperatively, the elbow joint was immobilized in a functional position with a plaster cast for four weeks. Results Follow-up in the outpatient department ranged from 9 to 36 months. Clinical functional assessment using Flynn’s criteria rated 24 cases as excellent, 2 as good, and 1 as fair, yielding an overall efficacy of 96.3%. No cases of fracture re-displacement, fracture fragment necrosis, or other complications such as nonunion, iatrogenic nerve injury, myositis ossificans, or long-term elbow joint dysfunction were observed during the postoperative follow-up. Conclusion The percutaneous poking reduction and Kirschner wire fixation technique is a simple and reliable procedure for treating irreducible flexion-type supracondylar fractures of the humerus in older children, with minimal trauma. This technique offers substantial stability for the fracture and results in excellent long-term recovery of joint function.

Abstract We conducted a retrospective study to investigate risk factors for tuberculosis care-seeking delay and diagnostic delays among pediatric pulmonary tuberculosis cases in Zhejiang Province from 2013 to 2022. Among 1274 cases, 49.61% experienced tuberculosis care-seeking delays (> 14 days from symptom onset to first hospital visit) and 14.91% faced diagnostic delays (> 14 days from initial consultation to diagnosis). The proportion of care-seeking delays ranged from 37.42 to 64.89%, while diagnostic delay fluctuated from 6.11 to 21.02%. Urban residence (OR = 0.78, 95% CI 0.62–0.98, P = 0.030), first visiting a municipal-level hospital (OR = 0.57, 95% CI 0.45–0.72, P

Abstract Bladder cancer is characterized by aberrant activation of the phosphatidylinositol-3-OH kinase (PI3K) signaling, underscoring the significance of directing therapeutic efforts toward the PI3K pathway as a promising strategy. In this study, we discovered that PI3K serves as a potent therapeutic target for bladder cancer through a high-throughput screening of inhibitory molecules. The PI3K inhibitor demonstrated a robust anti-tumor efficacy, validated both in vitro and in vivo settings. Nevertheless, the feedback activation of JAK1-STAT3 signaling reinstated cell and organoid survival, leading to resistance against the PI3K inhibitor. Mechanistically, the PI3K inhibitor suppresses PTPN11 expression, a negative regulator of the JAK-STAT pathway, thereby activating STAT3. Conversely, restoration of PTPN11 enhances the sensitivity of cancer cells to the PI3K inhibitor. Simultaneous inhibition of both PI3K and STAT3 with small-molecule inhibitors resulted in sustained tumor regression in patient-derived bladder cancer xenografts. These findings advocate for a combinational therapeutic approach targeting both PI3K and STAT3 pathways to achieve enduring cancer eradication in vitro and in vivo, underscoring their promising therapeutic efficacy for treating bladder cancer.

The importance of decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) as a natural biomaterial in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine is rapidly growing. The core objective of the decellularization process is to eliminate cellular components while maximizing the preservation of the ECM’s primary structure and components. Establishing a rapid, effective, and minimally destructive decellularization technique is essential for obtaining high-quality dECM to construct regenerative organs. This study focused on human umbilical cord tissue, designing different reagent combinations for decellularization protocols while maintaining a consistent processing time. The impact of these protocols on the decellularization efficiency of human umbilical cord tissue was evaluated. The results suggested that the composite decellularization strategy utilizing trypsin/EDTA + Triton X-100 + sodium deoxycholate was the optimal approach in this study for preparing decellularized human umbilical cord dECM. After 5 h of decellularization treatment, most cellular components were eliminated, confirmed through dsDNA quantitative detection, hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, and DAPI staining. Meanwhile, Masson staining, periodic acid-silver methenamine (PASM) staining, periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining, and immunofluorescent tissue section staining results revealed that the decellularized scaffold retained extracellular matrix components, including collagen and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Compared to native umbilical cord tissue, electron microscopy results demonstrated that the microstructure of the extracellular matrix was well preserved after decellularization. Furthermore, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) findings indicated that the decellularization process successfully retained the main functional group structures of extracellular matrix (ECM) components. The quantitative analysis of collagen, elastin, and GAG content validated the advantages of this decellularization process in preserving and purifying ECM components. Additionally, it was confirmed that this decellularized matrix exhibited no cytotoxicity in vitro. This study achieved short-term decellularization preparation for umbilical cord tissue through a combined decellularization strategy.

Abstract Freshwater scarcity and microplastics (MPs) pollution are two concerning and intertwined global challenges. In this work, we propose a “one stone kills two birds” strategy by employing an interfacial solar evaporation platform (ISEP) combined with a MPs adsorbent. This strategy aims to produce clean water and simultaneously enhance MPs removal. Unlike traditional predecessors, our ISEP generates condensed water free from MPs contamination. Additionally, the photothermally driven interfacial separation process significantly improves the MPs removal performance. We observed a removal ratio increase of up to 5.5 times compared to previously reported MPs adsorbents. Thus, our rationally-designed ISEP holds promising potential to not only mitigate the existing water scarcity issue but also remediate MPs pollution in natural water environments.

Abstract Background Migraine is one of the most common diseases worldwide while current treatment options are not ideal. New therapeutic classes of migraine, the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) antagonists, have been developed and shown considerable effectiveness and safety. The present study aimed to systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of atogepant, a CGRP antagonist, for migraine prophylaxis from the results of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Methods The Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed and https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ were searched for RCTs that compared atogepant with placebo for migraine prophylaxis from inception of the databases to Feb 1, 2024. Outcome data involving efficacy and safety were combined and analyzed using Review Manager Software version 5.3 (RevMan 5.3). For each outcome, risk ratios (RRs) or standardized mean difference (SMD) were calculated. Results 4 RCTs with a total of 2813 subjects met our inclusion criteria. The overall effect estimate showed that atogepant was significantly superior to placebo in terms of the reduction of monthly migraine (SMD − 0.40, 95% CI -0.46 to -0.34) or headache (SMD − 0.39, 95% CI -0.46 to -0.33) days, the reduction of acute medication use days (SMD − 0.45, 95% CI -0.51 to -0.39) and 50% responder rate (RR 1.66, 95% CI 1.46 to 1.89), while no dose-related improvements were found between different dosage groups. For the safety, significant number of patients experienced treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) with atogepant than with placebo (RR 1.10, 95% CI 1.02–1.21) while there was no obvious difference between the five dosage groups. Most TEAEs involved constipation (RR 2.55, 95% CI 1.91–3.41), nausea (RR 2.19, 95% CI 1.67–2.87) and urinary tract infection (RR 1.49, 95% CI 1.05–2.11). In addition, a high dosage of atogepant may also increase the risk of treatment-related TEAEs (RR 1.64, 95% CI 1.02–2.63) and fatigue (RR 3.07, 95% CI 1.13–8.35). Conclusions This meta-analysis suggests that atogepant is effective and tolerable for migraine prophylaxis including episodic or chronic migraine compared with placebo. It is critical to weigh the benefits of different doses against the risk of adverse events in clinical application of atogepant. Longer and multi-dose trials with larger sample sizes are required to verify the current findings.

Under the background of the “carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals”, the salt cavern is an important place for geological storage and carbon sequestration. The limited knowledge of the quantity and quality of the salt cavern and immature investigation technology constrains the development and utilization of salt cavern. After analyzing the geological exploration reports on major salt mines, reserves reports, enterprise annual reports, and research articles, a scientific understanding and basic judgment of the amount and utilizability of salt caverns in China are obtained; a technical system of salt cavern resource survey is established through a test with comprehensive detection technology in the concentrated area of salt cavern. The results show that salt cavern resources in China are characterized by abundant reserves, wide distribution, feasible burial depth, and convenient utilization on large scale. The most abundant salt cavern resources occur in the east and central regions. The national salt cavern resources are divided into levels I, II, and III by using an availability evaluation method system of salt cavern resource. Level I accounting for about 29.4%, is mainly distributed in Jiangsu, Hubei, Henan, and other provinces in east and central China. Salt cavern resources in level I are preferred for development and utilization. Level II accounting for about 65.4%, is widely distributed in southwest, northwest, and centra China, and can be used as a prospective area for development and utilization. Salt cavern resources in level III accounting for about 5.2%, are not suitable for development and utilization. Ground geophysical exploration, which can identify the characteristics of the regional geology, salt layer geology, hydrogeology, and salt cavity distribution of the salt mining area, guides the site selection on the salt cavern construction; geophysical exploration of high precision, which can obtain the information of salt mine levels and cavity structure, benefit the construction and operation detection of storage. This study provides the basic data and technical support for the planning and development of salt cavern resources in China.

Abstract Theabrownin (TB), which is derived from Pu‐erh tea and previously recognized as an intestinal farnesoid X receptor (FXR) antagonist, is known to have favorable effects on metabolic diseases such as hyperlipidemia and obesity. However, the mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of TB in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) require further exploration. This study aimed to use an NAFLD mouse model to evaluate changes in hepatic steatosis via the intestinal FXR–ceramide (Cer) axis following treatment with TB. The results indicated that TB alleviated hepatic steatosis and reduced total Cer levels in NAFLD mice. In particular, the levels of Cer(d18:1/16:0) in the intestine and liver were significantly reduced, which is considered to play a vital role in aggravating NAFLD. Furthermore, the transcriptional expression of Cer synthetase was markedly downregulated following treatment with TB or FXR antagonist, but this expression was reversed following treatment with a specific intestinal FXR agonist. These results indicate that TB alleviates NAFLD by reducing Cer levels via the inhibition of the intestinal FXR–Cer synthetase pathway.

Abstract We compute the gravitational form factors A i , D i and c ¯ i $$ {\overline{c}}_i $$ of the scalar Yukawa theory using both the light-cone and covariant perturbation theory at the one-loop level. The light-cone formalism provides a potential approach to access these form factors beyond the perturbative regime. However, unlike the covariant formulation, the Poincaré symmetry on the light cone is not manifest. In this work, we use perturbation theory as a benchmark to extract the gravitational form factors from the light-front energy-momentum tensor. By comparing results on and off the light cone, we identify T ++, T +a , T +− , T 12 as the “good currents” that are properly renormalized and can be used to extract the gravitational form factors.

Abstract Pre-mRNA splicing is a significant step for post-transcriptional modifications and functions in a wide range of physiological processes in plants. Human NHP2L binds to U4 snRNA during spliceosome assembly; it is involved in RNA splicing and mediates the development of human tumors. However, no ortholog has yet been identified in plants. Therefore, we report At4g12600 encoding the ortholog NHP2L protein, and AtSNU13 associates with the component of the spliceosome complex; the atsnu13 mutant showed compromised resistance in disease resistance, indicating that AtSNU13 is a positive regulator of plant immunity. Compared to wild-type plants, the atsnu13 mutation resulted in altered splicing patterns for defense-related genes and decreased expression of defense-related genes, such as RBOHD and ALD1. Further investigation shows that AtSNU13 promotes the interaction between U4/U6.U5 tri-snRNP-specific 27 K and the motif in target mRNAs to regulate the RNA splicing. Our study highlights the role of AtSNU13 in regulating plant immunity by affecting the pre-mRNA splicing of defense-related genes.

Abstract Ewing’s sarcoma (ES) represents a rare yet exceedingly aggressive neoplasm that poses a significant health risk to the pediatric and adolescent population. The clinical outcomes for individuals with relapsed or refractory ES are notably adverse, primarily attributed to the constrained therapeutic alternatives available. Despite significant advancements in the field, molecular pathology-driven therapeutic strategies have yet to achieve a definitive reduction in the mortality rates associated with ES. Consequently, there exists an imperative need to discover innovative therapeutic targets to effectively combat ES. To reveal the mechanism of the SETD8 (also known as lysine methyltransferase 5A) inhibitor UNC0379, cell death manners were analyzed with different inhibitors. The contributions of SETD8 to the processes of apoptosis and ferroptosis in ES cells were evaluated employing the histone methyltransferase inhibitor UNC0379 in conjunction with RNA interference techniques. The molecular regulatory mechanisms of SETD8 in ES were examined through the application of RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and mass spectrometry-based proteomic analysis. Moreover, nude mouse xenograft models were established to explore the role of SETD8 in ES in vivo. SETD8, a sole nucleosome-specific methyltransferase that catalyzes mono-methylation of histone H4 at lysine 20 (H4K20me1), was found to be upregulated in ES, and its overexpression was associated with dismal outcomes of patients. SETD8 knockdown dramatically induced the apoptosis and ferroptosis of ES cells in vitro and suppressed tumorigenesis in vivo. Mechanistic investigations revealed that SETD8 facilitated the nuclear translocation of YBX1 through post-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms, which subsequently culminated in the transcriptional upregulation of RAC3. In summary, SETD8 inhibits the apoptosis and ferroptosis of ES cells through the YBX1/RAC3 axis, which provides new insights into the mechanism of tumorigenesis of ES. SETD8 may be a potential target for clinical intervention in ES patients.

Abstract Background Preserved ratio impaired spirometry (PRISm) is a type of abnormal lung function. PRISm and mortality have been explored in several studies, but a comprehensive evaluation of the associations is limited. The current study aims to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis in order to investigate the mortality and cardiovascular diseases in patients with PRISm. Methods PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases, as well as gray literature sources, were searched for relevant studies published up to 7 September 2023 without language restrictions. This review included all published observational cohort studies that investigated the association of PRISm with mortality in the general population, as well as subgroup analyses in smokers and pre-bronchodilation spirometry studies. The outcomes of interest were all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, and respiratory-related mortality. The Newcastle–Ottawa scale assessed study quality. Sensitivity and subgroup analyses explored heterogeneity and robustness. Publication bias was assessed with Egger’s and Begg’s tests. Results Overall, eight studies were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled HR was 1.60 (95% CI, 1.48–1.74) for all-cause mortality, 1.68 (95% CI, 1.46–1.94) for CVD mortality, and 3.09 (95% CI, 1.42–6.71) for respiratory-related mortality in PRISm group compared to normal group. In the subgroup analysis, participants with PRISm had a higher effect (HR, 2.11; 95% CI, 1.74–2.54) on all-cause mortality among smokers relative to participants with normal spirometry. Furthermore, the association between PRISm and mortality risk was consistent across several sensitivity analyses. Conclusions People with PRISm were associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality, CVD mortality, and respiratory-related mortality as compared to those with normal lung function in the general population. Systematic review registration PROSPERO CRD42023426872.

Abstract The intelligent appearance quality classification method for Auricularia auricula is of great significance to promote this industry. This paper proposes an appearance quality classification method for Auricularia auricula based on the improved Faster Region-based Convolutional Neural Networks (improved Faster RCNN) framework. The original Faster RCNN is improved by establishing a multiscale feature fusion detection model to improve the accuracy and real-time performance of the model. The multiscale feature fusion detection model makes full use of shallow feature information to complete target detection. It fuses shallow features with rich detailed information with deep features rich in strong semantic information. Since the fusion algorithm directly uses the existing information of the feature extraction network, there is no additional calculation. The fused features contain more original detailed feature information. Therefore, the improved Faster RCNN can improve the final detection rate without sacrificing speed. By comparing with the original Faster RCNN model, the mean average precision (mAP) of the improved Faster RCNN is increased by 2.13%. The average precision (AP) of the first-level Auricularia auricula is almost unchanged at a high level. The AP of the second-level Auricularia auricula is increased by nearly 5%. And the third-level Auricularia auricula AP is increased by 1%. The improved Faster RCNN improves the frames per second from 6.81 of the original Faster RCNN to 13.5. Meanwhile, the influence of complex environment and image resolution on the Auricularia auricula detection is explored.

Abstract Background Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) presents significant diagnostic challenges in its early and late stages. This study aims to utilize preoperative MRI and biochemical indicators of OSCC patients to predict the stage of tumors. Methods This study involved 198 patients from two medical centers. A detailed analysis of contrast-enhanced T1-weighted (ceT1W) and T2-weighted (T2W) MRI were conducted, integrating these with biochemical indicators for a comprehensive evaluation. Initially, 42 clinical biochemical indicators were selected for consideration. Through univariate analysis and multivariate analysis, only those indicators with p-values less than 0.05 were retained for model development. To extract imaging features, machine learning algorithms in conjunction with Vision Transformer (ViT) techniques were utilized. These features were integrated with biochemical indicators for predictive modeling. The performance of model was evaluated using the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve. Results After rigorously screening biochemical indicators, four key markers were selected for the model: cholesterol, triglyceride, very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and chloride. The model, developed using radiomics and deep learning for feature extraction from ceT1W and T2W images, showed a lower Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.85 in the validation cohort when using these imaging modalities alone. However, integrating these biochemical indicators improved the model’s performance, increasing the validation cohort AUC to 0.87. Conclusion In this study, the performance of the model significantly improved following multimodal fusion, outperforming the single-modality approach. Clinical relevance statement This integration of radiomics, ViT models, and lipid metabolite analysis, presents a promising non-invasive technique for predicting the staging of OSCC.

Abstract Direct reduction of unactivated alkyl halides for C(sp3)-N couplings under mild conditions presents a significant challenge in organic synthesis due to their low reduction potential. Herein, we introduce an in situ formed pyridyl-carbene-ligated copper (I) catalyst that is capable of abstracting halide atom and generating alkyl radicals for general C(sp3)-N couplings under visible light. Control experiments confirmed that the mono-pyridyl-carbene-ligated copper complex is the active species responsible for catalysis. Mechanistic investigations using transient absorption spectroscopy across multiple decades of timescales revealed ultrafast intersystem crossing (260 ps) of the photoexcited copper (I) complexes into their long-lived triplet excited states (>2 μs). The non-Stern-Volmer quenching dynamics of the triplets by unactivated alkyl halides suggests an association between copper (I) complexes and alkyl halides, thereby facilitating the abstraction of halide atoms via inner-sphere single electron transfer (SET), rather than outer-sphere SET, for the formation of alkyl radicals for subsequent cross couplings.

Abstract Fast photoinduced charge separation (CS) and long-lived charge-separated state (CSS) in small-molecules facilitate light-energy conversion, while simultaneous attainment of both remains challenging. Here we accomplish this through aggregation based on fullerene-indacenodithiophene dyads. Transient absorption spectroscopy reveals that, compared to solution, the CS time in aggregates is accelerated from 41.5 ps to 0.4 ps, and the CSS lifetime is prolonged from 311.4 ps to 40 μs, indicating that aggregation concomitantly promotes fast CS and long-lived CSS. Fast CS arises from the hot charge-transfer states dissociation, opening up additional resonant channels to free carriers (FCs); subsequently, charge recombination into intramolecular triplet CSS becomes favorable mediated by spin-uncorrelated FCs. Different from fullerene/indacenodithiophene blends, the unique CS mechanism in dyad aggregates reduces the long-lived CSS dependence on molecular order, resulting in a CSS lifetime 200 times longer than blends. This endows the dyad aggregates to exhibit both photoelectronic switch properties and superior photocatalytic capabilities.

Abstract Background C16:0 and cis-9 C18:1 may have different effects on animal growth and health due to unique metabolism in vivo. This study was investigated to explore the different effects of altering the ratio of C16:0 and cis-9 C18:1 in fat supplements on growth performance, lipid metabolism, intestinal barrier, cecal microbiota, and inflammation in fattening bulls. Thirty finishing Angus bulls (626 ± 69 kg, 21 ± 0.5 months) were divided into 3 treatments according to the randomized block design: (1) control diet without additional fat (CON), (2) CON + 2.5% palmitic acid calcium salt (PA, 90% C16:0), and (3) CON + 2.5% mixed fatty acid calcium salt (MA, 60% C16:0 + 30% cis-9 C18:1). The experiment lasted for 104 d, after which all the bulls were slaughtered and sampled for analysis. Results MA tended to reduce 0–52 d dry matter intake compared to PA (DMI, P = 0.052). Compared with CON and MA, PA significantly increased 0–52 d average daily gain (ADG, P = 0.027). PA tended to improve the 0–52 d feed conversion rate compared with CON (FCR, P = 0.088). Both PA and MA had no significant effect on 52–104 days of DMI, ADG and FCR (P > 0.05). PA tended to improve plasma triglycerides compared with MA (P = 0.077), significantly increased plasma cholesterol (P = 0.002) and tended to improve subcutaneous adipose weight (P = 0.066) when compared with CON and MA. Both PA and MA increased visceral adipose weight compared with CON (P = 0.021). Only PA increased the colonization of Rikenellaceae, Ruminococcus and Proteobacteria in the cecum, and MA increased Akkermansia abundance (P 0.05). Conclusions MA containing 30% cis-9 C18:1 reduced the risk of high C16:0 dietary fat induced subcutaneous fat obesity, adipose tissue and systemic low-grade inflammation by accelerating fatty acid oxidative utilization, improving colonization of Akkermansia, reducing intestinal barrier damage, and down-regulating NF-κB activation.

The effects of homogenization temperature at 465 °C and different homogenization times (6h/12h/24h/36/h/48h) on the microstructure and mechanical properties of as-cast 7075 aluminum alloy were studied using optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), hardness testing, and tensile testing. The results show that during the initial stage of homogenization, the continuous bright white network of σ-Mg (Zn, Cu, Al)2 phase transforms into a white broken flocculent S–Al2CuMg phase with the dissolution of Zn. In the middle stage, the S–Al2CuMg phase dissolves and Cu diffuses into primary Al7Cu2Fe, accompanied by precipitation of a large amount of dispersed nanoscale MgZn2 phase. With the homogenization time, the Al7Cu2Fe and MgZn2 phase are coarsened. The strength and plasticity of the alloy show a trend of first increase and then decrease. When the homogenization time is 24 h, the ultimate tensile strength (UTS), yield strength (YS), and elongation reach the peak values of 231.1 MPa, 134.2 MPa, and 4.0%, respectively. The phase transformation and dissolution mechanism during the homogenization process of 7075 aluminum alloy provides a scientific theoretical basis for improving the mechanical properties of the alloy.

Thymus is the important immune organ, responsible for T cell development and differentiation. The lower circulating T counts have been observed in patients who died from COVID-19 compared with survivors. Azvudine, also known as FNC, is a thymus-homing anti-SARS-CoV-2 drug in treating COVID-19 patients. In this study, single-cell transcriptome, proteomics, and parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) were applied to insight into the activation process of FNC in rat and SARS-CoV-2 rhesus monkey thymus. The results indicated that thymic immune cells possess a robust metabolic capacity for cytidine-analogue drugs such as FNC. Key enzymes involved in the FNC phosphorylation process, such as Dck, Cmpk1, and Nme2, were highly expressed in CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and DP (CD4+ CD8+) cells. Additionally, FNC could upregulate multiple phosphorylated kinases in various cell types while downregulating the phosphatases, phosphoribosyl transferases, and deaminases, respectively. The robust phosphorylation capacity of the thymus for cytidine analogue drug FNC, and the activation effect of FNC on the NAs metabolism system potentially contribute to its enrichment in the thymus and immune protection effect. This suggests that it is crucial to consider the expression level of phosphorylation kinases when evaluating NA drug properties, as an important factor during antiviral drug design.

AIM:To analyze the predictive value and threshold effect of preoperative glycated hemoglobin(HbA1c)level on posterior capsular opacification(PCO)in diabetic cataract patients.METHODS:Retrospective study. A total of 106 diabetic patients(106 eyes)with cataract treated in our hospital from September 2018 to September 2020 were collected. The patients were divided into PCO group(52 cases, 52 eyes)and non-PCO group(54 cases, 54 eyes)according to whether PCO occurred at 36 mo after surgery. The risk factors affecting postoperative PCO were analyzed. The threshold effect of HbA1c level on the occurrence of postoperative PCO was analyzed. The predictive value of preoperative HbA1c level in postoperative PCO was evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curve. The prediction model was constructed, and Bootstrap resampling was used to verify the prediction model, and the differentiation and accuracy of the model were evaluated.RESULTS: There were significant differences in diabetes course, diabetic retinopathy, fasting blood glucose, 2 h postprandial blood glucose, preoperative HbA1c, axial length and nuclear grade between PCO and non-PCO groups(P

In this paper, we use a Monte Carlo (MC) simulation based on Geant4 to investigate the influence of four parameters on the spatial resolution of the lens-coupled lutetium yttrium orthosilicate (LYSO) scintillator, including the thickness of the LYSO scintillator, the F-number and minification factor of the lens, and the incident position of the gamma-rays. Simulation results show that when the gamma-rays are incident along the lens axis, the smaller the thickness, the larger the F-number, the larger the minification factor, the higher the spatial resolution, with an isotropic point spread function (PSF). As the incident position of the gamma-rays deviates from the lens axis, the spatial resolution decreases, and the PSF becomes anisotropic. In addition, by analyzing the whole physical process of the lens-coupled LYSO scintillator from gamma-rays to secondary electrons to fluorescence photons, we aim to provide a detailed analysis of the influence of each parameter on the spatial resolution. The results show that the PSF of the secondary electrons energy deposition is almost constant in the simulation, which determines the upper limit of the spatial resolution. Meanwhile, the dispersion process of the fluorescence photons can explain the reason why each parameter affects the spatial resolution.

In this study, the high-temperature evolution of eutectic carbides in a medium-alloy steel was investigated as well as their precipitation mechanism. Results revealed that MC and M6C eutectic carbides in the steel appeared during the final solidification due to the segregation of Mo and V and the melt undercooling. These eutectic carbides consist of blocky shapes with varying orientations, and rod-like shapes with the same orientation. Further investigation was confirmed that the carbides (MC and M6C) exhibited an intergrowth behavior. The cooling rate had a direct influence on the secondary dendrite arm spacing (SDAS), which decreased from 180 to 130 μm as the rate ranged from 0.6 to 21.9 °C/min. After holding for 0, 25, 50, and 80 h, respectively, the volume percentage of eutectic carbides exhibited a significant decreasing trend from 2 to 0.2%. Additionaly, the carbides exhibited irregular morphology after holding for 0–50 h, respectively, and which was transformed into the rod-like shape with a small size distributed along the grain boundaries after holding for 80 h. This phenomenon was attributed to the mutual diffusion between Mo, V, and other alloying elements in the carbides and Fe element in the steel matrix.

Abstract Background Osteoporosis is a chronic bone disease characterized by bone loss and decreased bone strength. However, current anti‐resorptive drugs carry a risk of various complications. The deep learning‐based efficacy prediction system (DLEPS) is a forecasting tool that can effectively compete in drug screening and prediction based on gene expression changes. This study aimed to explore the protective effect and potential mechanisms of cinobufotalin (CB), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), on bone loss. Methods DLEPS was employed for screening anti‐osteoporotic agents according to gene profile changes in primary osteoporosis. Micro‐CT, histological and morphological analysis were applied for the bone protective detection of CB, and the osteogenic differentiation/function in human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMMSCs) were also investigated. The underlying mechanism was verified using qRT‐PCR, Western blot (WB), immunofluorescence (IF), etc. Results A safe concentration (0.25 mg/kg in vivo, 0.05 μM in vitro) of CB could effectively preserve bone mass in estrogen deficiency‐induced bone loss and promote osteogenic differentiation/function of hBMMSCs. Both BMPs/SMAD and Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathways participated in CB‐induced osteogenic differentiation, further regulating the expression of osteogenesis‐associated factors, and ultimately promoting osteogenesis. Conclusion Our study demonstrated that CB could significantly reverse estrogen deficiency‐induced bone loss, further promoting osteogenic differentiation/function of hBMMSCs, with BMPs/SMAD and Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathways involved.

Study Design Retrospective cohort study. Purpose To investigate the long-term clinical and radiological outcomes of selective fusion for rotatory olisthesis (RO) in degenerative lumbar scoliosis (DLS). Overview of Literature DLS is often associated with RO, and selective fusion of RO is a common surgical treatment option. However, the clinical and radiological outcomes remain controversial. Methods A cohort of 54 consecutive patients with DLS and RO was included in the study. All the included patients underwent selective RO fusion and at least 2 years of follow-up. They were divided into two groups: group 1 with a curve 30° because of a higher complication rate and a worse clinical outcome at the final follow-up.

In high-penetration wind power generation systems， accurately assessing the support potential for virtual inertia of energy storage and fully releasing its energy reserves to render the systems active in grid frequency regulation are crucial for ensuring the systems’ frequency safety and stability. To achieve this， a dynamic frequency response model for wind-storage power generation systems to calculate the system’s time of safe frequency rise and fall and the extreme values of frequency deviation. Next， considering the constraints on the safe operating condition of the state of charge （SOC） during energy storage， the virtual inertia of energy storage during the time of safe frequency rise and fall is quantitatively evaluated. Moreover， an active frequency support technology for energy storage based on fixed-frequency control is introduced， aiming to fully exploit the frequency support capability of energy storage during the frequency drop and recovery periods. Finally， a simulation model of high-penetration wind power generation systems is constructed for validation. Under the proposed control strategy， energy storage can provide effective inertia support and offer sustained frequency response， thereby significantly enhancing the systems’ frequency stability.

Abstract Aim The clinical characteristics associated with pulmonary function decline in patients with Tuberculosis-destroyed lung (TDL) remain uncertain. We categorize them based on the pattern of pulmonary function impairment, distinguishing between restrictive spirometric pattern (RSP) and obstructive spirometric pattern (OSP). We aim to compare the severity of these patterns with the clinical characteristics of TDL patients and analyze their correlation. Method We conducted a retrospective analysis on the clinical data of TDL patients who underwent consecutive pulmonary function tests (PFT) from November 2002 to February 2023. We used the lower limit formula for normal values based on the 2012 Global Lung Function Initiative. We compared the clinical characteristics of RSP patients with those of OSP patients. The characteristics of RSP patients were analyzed using the tertiles of forced vital capacity percentage predicted (FVC% pred) decline based on PFT measurements, and the characteristics of OSP patients were analyzed using the tertiles of forced expiratory volume in 1 s percentage predicted (FEV1% pred) decline. Result Among the RSP patients, those in the Tertile1 group (with lower FVC% pred) were more likely to have a higher of body mass index (BMI), spinal deformities, and C-reactive protein (CRP) compared to the other two groups (P for trend

Abstract Gridization is an emerging molecular integration technology that enables the creation of multifunctional organic semiconductors through precise linkages. While Friedel-Crafts gridization of fluorenols is potent, direct linkage among fluorene molecules poses a challenge. Herein, we report an achiral Pd-PPh3-cataylized diastereoselective (>99:1 d.r.) gridization based on the C-H-activation of fluorene to give dimeric and trimeric windmill-type nanogrids (DWGs and TWGs). These non-conjugated stereo-nanogrids showcase intramolecular multiple H…H interactions with a low field shift to 8.51 ppm and circularly polarized luminescence with high luminescent dissymmetry factors (|g PL | = 0.012). Significantly, the nondoped organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) utilizing cis-trans-TWG1 emitter present an ultraviolet electroluminescent peak at ~386 nm (CIE: 0.17, 0.04) with a maximum external quantum efficiency of 4.17%, marking the highest record among nondoped ultraviolet OLEDs based on hydrocarbon compounds and the pioneering ultraviolet OLEDs based on macrocycles. These nanohydrocarbon offer potential nanoscafflolds for ultraviolet light-emitting optoelectronic applications.

Abstract Background Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) is characterized by the presence of hamartomatous polyps in the gastrointestinal tract and mucocutaneous pigmentation on the lips, oral mucosa, nose, fingers, and toes. Synchronous mucinous metaplasia and neoplasia of the female genital tract (SMMN-FGT) refers to the occurrence of multifocal mucinous lesions in at least two sites, including the cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries, in the female genital tract. SMMN-FGT and PJS are rare diseases with a very low incidence, especially when occurring simultaneously. Case presentation We report a case in which a woman with a large mass on the left ovary underwent a gynecological surgery and was diagnosed with cervical gastric-type adenocarcinoma and mucinous lesions in the endometrium, bilateral fallopian tubes, and ovary, i.e., SMMN-FGT, by postoperative paraffin pathology. The patient sought medical attention for abdominal distension and enlargement. A gynecological ultrasound revealed a multilocular cystic mass in the pelvis, while serum tumor markers were within normal limits, with mildly elevated carbohydrate antigen 199 and carbohydrate antigen 125 levels. Cervical thin-prep cytology test result was negative. The patient had a family history of PJS with black spots on her skin and mucous membranes since the age of 8 years. She underwent multiple partial small bowel resections and gastrointestinal polypectomy owing to intestinal obstruction and intussusception. She underwent left adnexectomy, hysterectomy, right salpingectomy, greater omental resection, appendectomy and right ovary biopsy, and received six courses of adjuvant chemotherapy with Lopressor plus Carboplatin. Genetic testing revealed a heterozygous serine threonine kinase 11 germline mutation and there were no signs of recurrence during the 18-month follow-up period after treatment. Conclusions This is a rare case in which PJS was complicated by SMMN-FGT. Owing to its extreme rarity, there are no guidelines, but reported cases appear to indicate a poor prognosis. We retrospectively reviewed all cases of collisions between PJS and SMMN-FGT and explored the clinical features, pathological characteristics, diagnosis, treatment methods, and prognosis when the two diseases coexisted. The aim is to deepen the clinicians’ understanding of this disease for early detection, diagnosis and treatment.

The eastern side of the Tibetan Plateau is characterized by its variable terrain with dramatic elevation changes. The extreme precipitation in areas with steep and complex terrain can directly threaten the Tibetan Plateau and downstream regions with meteorological and subsequent geological disasters. The unique topography and geographical position of this area bring significant challenges to understanding extreme precipitation. For extreme precipitation in the complex terrain region on the eastern side of the Tibetan Plateau, a review of recent advances over the past decade was achieved in this paper. Different research areas are summarized, including precipitation observations and analysis using new methods, characteristics of climate evolution and synergistic mechanisms of extreme precipitation, cloud-precipitation physical characteristics and forecast simulations, as well as climate projections. On the scientific issues worth paying attention to and considering in the future of extreme precipitation research in complex terrain areas of the Tibetan Plateau, this paper also looks forward to several aspects of the related studies, such as combining machine learning methods with multi-source precipitation data and the applicability of precipitation data, climate change characteristics of extreme precipitation events and the mechanisms related to local weather systems and large-scale circulation anomalies, cloud macroscopic characteristics and microphysical characteristics over the Tibetan Plateau, evaluation of climate model performance for historical periods and projection of future extreme precipitation simulation.

Sucra jujuba Chu, 1979 (Lepidoptera: Geometridae) is a major insect pest in jujube plantation. In this study, we have sequenced the complete mitochondrial genome of S. jujuba. The circular genome was 15,557 bp in length and contained 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNA genes (tRNAs), two ribosomal RNA genes (rRNAs), and one AT-rich region (GenBank accession no. MZ507574). The nucleotide composition was significantly biased (A, T, C, and G were 41.85%, 39.65%, 10.97%, and 7.53%, respectively) with A + T contents of 81.50%. The Bayesian phylogenetic analysis of the concatenated nucleotide sequences of 13 PCGs from 30 species in the subfamily Ennominae and two outgroup species was performed. The results indicated that S. jujuba was closely related to Amraica recursaria in the subfamily Ennominae.

This is an article in the field of ceramics and composites. In order to study the adsorption effect of modified bentonite on heavy metal ions in sewage, the effects of pH value, initial concentration, time, solid-liquid ratio, temperature and particle size on the adsorption effect of bentonite were analyzed. And microscopic means were used to study the changes of the internal mineral composition of the bentonite before and after the adsorption of heavy metal ions and the change law of the infrared spectra. The results showed that when the modified bentonite content was 0.2 g, the adsorption time was 1.5 h, the temperature was set to 40 ℃, the pH value was set to 6, the initial concentration was set to 200 mg/L and the solid-to-liquid ratio was set to 0.8 g/L, the adsorption effect was the best. After the modified bentonite had undergone an adsorption test, an obvious CuSO4 diffraction peak could be detected. However, other mineral components inside the modified bentonite remained unchanged, which also showed that the modified bentonite could effectively adsorb copper ions in sewage.

Abstract Background Dietary fiber (DF) consumption was reported to improve insulin sensitivity, change the tryptophan metabolism, and alter the gut microbiota. Herein, this study aimed to investigate the effects of DF consumption on insulin sensitivity, tryptophan metabolism, and gut microbiota composition in sows during late pregnancy, and explore the relationship between tryptophan metabolites and insulin sensitivity regulated by DF supplementation. Results Twelve sows were randomly assigned to two dietary treatment groups (six/group): the low-fiber (LF) group, which was fed a basal diet, and the high-fiber (HF) group, which was fed the basal diet supplemented with 22.60 g/kg inulin and 181.60 g/kg cellulose. During late pregnancy, meal test, glucose tolerance test, and insulin challenge test were used to investigate the insulin sensitivity of sows, using the percutaneous brachiocephalic vein catheterization technique. High DF consumption resulted in improved insulin sensitivity, especially during the second and third trimesters, and promoted serotonin production from tryptophan. Additionally, plasma serotonin concentration was positively correlated with the insulin sensitivity index during late pregnancy. Moreover, DF consumption elevated fecal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations, altered fecal microbial diversity, and increased the abundances of Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group, Alloprevotella, Parabacteroides, Roseburia, and Sphaerochaeta, which were positively correlated to plasma serotonin concentration. Conclusions DF consumption improved insulin sensitivity during late pregnancy in sows, which improved microbial diversity in fecal samples and increased fecal SCFA concentrations, resulting in a positive correlation with plasma serotonin level.

Introduction: Pilomatrix carcinomas (PMXCs) are uncommon, locally aggressive tumors with high recurrence rates, metastatic potential, and fewer than 130 cases reported in the literature. Typically, they present as an unassuming, firm, dermal swelling and therefore are frequently mistaken for more common, benign masses, leading to undertreatment which can cause local invasion and metastatic spread. Diagnosis relies on excision with pathologic analysis; however once diagnosed, there are no current recommendations to guide treatment or surveillance for recurrence or metastases. Case Presentation: Here, we present a case of one of these rare tumors. Our case describes a 1.5 × 2.5 cm firm, mobile mass at the supraorbital rim in an otherwise healthy, young patient. Prior to removal, we suspected a benign pathology; however, excision proved difficult and pathologic diagnosis was consistent with PMXC. Following discussion with tumor board, decision was made to perform Mohs micrographic surgery and staging via CT scans with regular follow-up and surveillance scans. Conclusion: PMXCs are exceedingly rare diagnoses and present like many benign lesions. Therefore, we elected to document this case to encourage providers to keep these biologically aggressive tumors on their list of differential diagnoses in an unsuspecting mass, as well as to provide our own recommendations for treatment and screening for recurrence and metastatic spread.

To assess the possibility of using aerobic denitrification (AD) bacteria with high NO2−-N accumulation for nitrogen removal in wastewater treatment, conditional optimization, as well as sole and mixed nitrogen source tests involving AD bacterium, Comamonas sp. pw-6 was performed. The results showed that the optimal carbon source, pH, C/N ratio, rotational speed, and salinity for this strain were determined to be succinate, 7, 20, 160 rpm, and 0%, respectively. Further, this strain preferentially utilized NH4+-N, NO3−-N, and NO2−-N, and when NO3−-N was its sole nitrogen source, 92.28% of the NO3−-N (150 mg·L−1) was converted to NO2−-N. However, when NH4+-N and NO3−-N constituted the mixed nitrogen source, NO3−-N utilization by this strain was significantly lower (p < 0.05). Therefore, a strategy was proposed to combine pw-6 bacteria with traditional autotrophic nitrification to achieve the application of pw-6 bacteria in NH4+-N-containing wastewater treatment. Bioaugmented application experiments showed significantly higher NH4+-N removal (5.96 ± 0.94 mg·L−1·h−1) and lower NO3−-N accumulation (2.52 ± 0.18 mg·L−1·h−1) rates (p < 0.05) than those observed for the control test. Thus, AD bacteria with high NO2−-N accumulation can also be used for practical applications, providing a basis for expanding the selection range of AD strains for wastewater treatment. HIGHLIGHTS Optimal C source, pH, C/N ratio, and salinity for Comamonas sp. pw-6 were found.; Strain pw-6 preferentially utilized NH4+-N, NO3−-N, and NO2−-N, successively.; When NO3−-N was the sole nitrogen source, 92.28% of the NO3−-N converted to NO2−-N.; Addition of pw-6 into sequencing batch reactor can enhance NH4+-N and total inorganic nitrogen removal and reduce NO3−-N accumulation.;

Abstract Background Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common and serious condition, particularly among elderly patients. It is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates, further compounded by the need for continuous renal replacement therapy in severe cases. To improve clinical decision-making and patient management, there is a need for accurate prediction models that can identify patients at a high risk of mortality. Methods Data were extracted from the Dryad Digital Repository. Multivariate analysis was performed using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) logistic regression analysis to identify independent risk factors and construct a predictive nomogram for mortality within 28 days after continuous renal replacement therapy in elderly patients with acute kidney injury. The discrimination of the model was evaluated in the validation cohort using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), and calibration was evaluated using a calibration curve. The clinical utility of the model was assessed using decision curve analysis (DCA). Results A total of 606 participants were enrolled and randomly divided into two groups: a training cohort (n = 424) and a validation cohort (n = 182) in a 7:3 proportion. A risk prediction model was developed to identify independent predictors of 28-day mortality in elderly patients with AKI. The predictors included age, systolic blood pressure, creatinine, albumin, phosphorus, age-adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) score, and sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score. These predictors were incorporated into a logistic model and presented in a user-friendly nomogram. In the validation cohort, the model demonstrated good predictive performance with an AUC of 0.799. The calibration curve showed that the model was well calibrated. Additionally, DCA revealed significant net benefits of the nomogram for clinical application. Conclusion The development of a nomogram for predicting 28-day mortality in elderly patients with AKI receiving continuous renal replacement therapy has the potential to improve prognostic accuracy and assist in clinical decision-making.

Abstract Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level is one of the commonly used indicators to assess renal function and systemic immune-inflammatory status. In the adolescent population, changes in BUN levels may be associated with a variety of factors, including physiologic dehydration, lifestyle influences such as nutritional intake, physical activity, and possible endocrine or metabolic disorders. In recent years, more and more studies have shown that BUN levels are not only a reflection of kidney function, but it may also be related to the inflammatory state of the body. The Systemic Immune Inflammatory Index (SII) is a comprehensive index that takes into account platelet counts, neutrophil and lymphocyte counts, and is thought to be effective in reflecting the body's immune status and inflammatory response. However, research on the relationship between the two, SII and BUN, remains understudied in the adolescent population. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between SII and BUN levels in a population of American adolescents and to further analyze the factors that influence it. We conducted a cross-sectional study using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database. Using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression analysis, we explored the relationship between SII and BUN levels. We found a significant negative correlation between SII and BUN levels, with BUN levels decreasing when SII levels increased (BUN as the dependent variable and SII as the outcome variable). We performed a multiple regression analysis of this relationship, controlling for possible confounders such as gender, age, race, and BMI, and found that this negative correlation remained significant. Our findings reveal an important relationship between SII and BUN levels and provide new perspectives for understanding adolescent health.

Abstract Background Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant public health concern, and patient self-management is an effective approach to manage the condition. Mobile applications have been used as tools to assist in improving patient self-management, but their effectiveness in long-term outpatient follow-up management of patients with CKD remains to be validated. This study aimed to investigate whether using a mobile application combined with traditional outpatient follow-up can improve health outcomes of patients with CKD . Methods This retrospective cohort study recruited CKD patients with stage 1–5 who were not receiving renal replacement therapy from a CKD management center. Two groups were established: the APP + outpatient follow-up group and the traditional outpatient follow-up group. Baseline data was collected from January 2015 to December 2019, followed by a three-year long-term follow-up until December 2022. Laboratory data, all-cause mortality, and renal replacement treatment were then collected and compared between the two groups. Results 5326 patients were included in the study, including 2492 in the APP + outpatient group and 2834 in the traditional outpatient group. After IPTW virtualization matching, the final matched the APP + outpatient group consisted of 2489 cases (IQR, 33–55) and 2850 (IQR, 33–55) in the traditional outpatient group. By the end of the study, it was observed that the laboratory data of Phosphorus, Sodium, Triglyceride, Hemoglobin showed significant improvements, Furthermore the APP + outpatient group demonstrated superior results compared to the traditional outpatient group (P

Abstract Diguo (Ficus tikoua Bur.), an ancient wild fruit, is widely spread in southwest China. However, there is little information on the phenotypic traits, quality characteristics, and aroma compounds available to diguo fruit. The present study is an investigation into the effects of geographical origin on the phenotypic traits and quality characteristics of wild diguo fruit collected from southwest China. The volatile compounds in the mixed fruit samples were also investigated using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Our results indicated that significant variation existed among the sampling materials in all the phenotypic parameters. Fruit fresh weight ranged between 2.06 and 4.59 g. Moreover, significant variation existed among the selected materials in all macronutrients (dry matter, total soluble solids, crude protein, crude fat, and ash) and some nutritional parameters (glutamate, arginine, total soluble solids, maltose, and mannose, etc.). Regardless of their geographical origin, diguo fruit is relatively low in fat and fructose and high in fiber and glutamate. A total of 95 volatile constituents were identified in the frozen diguo fruit. In conclusion, diguo fruit with rich nutritional attributes has a promising future for commercial‐scale production. The variability of the observed morphological and nutritional features of diguo fruit provides important characteristics for improving the breeding of diguo as a modern fruit crop.

Abstract Multi-stable structures attract great interest because they possess special energy landscapes with domains of attraction around the stable states. Consequently, multi-stable structures have the potential to achieve prescribed reconfiguration with only a few lightweight actuators (such as shape-memory alloy springs), and do not need constant actuation to be locked at a stable state. However, most existing multi-stability designs are based on assembling bi-stable unit cells, which contain multitudes of distractive stable states, diminishing the feasibility of reconfiguration actuation. Another type is by introducing prestress together with kinematic symmetry or nonlinearity to achieve multi-stability, but the resultant structure often suffers the lack of stiffness. To help address these challenges, we firstly introduce the constraints that a truss structure is simultaneously compatible at multiple (more than two) prescribed states. Then, we solve for the design of multi-stable truss structures, named multi-compatible structures in this paper, where redundant stable states are limited. Secondly, we explore minimum energy paths connecting the designed stable states, and compute for a simple and inaccurate pulling actuation guiding the structure to transform along the computed paths. Finally, we fabricated four prototypes to demonstrate that prescribed reconfigurations with easy-actuation have been achieved and applied a quadra-stable structure to the design of a variable stiffness gripper. Altogether, our full-cycle design approach contains multi-stability design, stiffness design, minimum-energy-path finding, and pulling actuation design, which highlights the potential for designing morphing structures with lightweight actuation for practical applications.

Abstract Cellular communication (CC) influences tumor development by mediating intercellular junctions between cells. However, the role and underlying mechanisms of CC in malignant transformation remain unknown. Here, we investigated the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of CC molecular expression during malignant transformation. It was found that although both tight junctions (TJs) and gap junctions (GJs) were involved in maintaining the tumor microenvironment (TME), they exhibited opposite characteristics. Mechanistically, for epithelial cells (parenchymal component), the expression of TJ molecules consistently decreased during normal-cancer transformation and is a potential oncogenic factor. For fibroblasts (mesenchymal component), the expression of GJs consistently increased during normal-cancer transformation and is a potential oncogenic factor. In addition, the molecular profiles of TJs and GJs were used to stratify colorectal cancer (CRC) patients, where subtypes characterized by high GJ levels and low TJ levels exhibited enhanced mesenchymal signals. Importantly, we propose that leiomodin 1 (LMOD1) is biphasic, with features of both TJs and GJs. LMOD1 not only promotes the activation of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) but also inhibits the Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) program in cancer cells. In conclusion, these findings demonstrate the molecular heterogeneity of CC and provide new insights into further understanding of TME heterogeneity. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Background Flash visual evoked potentials (FVEPs) are a reliable method for protecting visual function during spine surgery in prone position. However, the popularization and application of FVEPs remain limited due to the unclear influence of various anesthetics on FVEPs. Exploring the effects of anesthetic drugs on FVEP and establishing appropriate anesthesia maintenance methods are particularly important for promoting and applying FVEP. According to the conventional concept, inhaled narcotic drugs significantly affect the success of FVEP monitoring, FVEP extraction, and interpretation. Nonetheless, our previous study demonstrated that sevoflurane-propofol balanced anesthesia was a practicable regimen for FVEPs. Desflurane is widely used in general anesthesia for its rapid recovery properties. As the effect of desflurane on FVEP remains unclear, this trial will investigate the effect of different inhaled concentrations of desflurane anesthesia on amplitude of FVEPs during spine surgery, aiming to identify more feasible anesthesia schemes for the clinical application of FVEP. Methods/ design A total of 70 patients undergoing elective spinal surgery will be enrolled in this prospective, randomized controlled, open-label, patient-assessor-blinded, superiority trial and randomly assigned to the low inhaled concentration of desflurane group (LD group) maintained with desflurane-propofolremifentanil-balanced anesthesia or high inhaled concentration of desflurane group (HD group) maintained with desflurane-remifentanil anesthesia maintenance group at a ratio of 1:1. All patients will be monitored for intraoperative FVEPs, and the baseline will be measured half an hour after induction under total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA). After that, patients will receive 0.5 minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) of desflurane combined with propofol and remifentanil for anesthesia maintenance in the LD group, while 0.7–1.0 MAC of desflurane and remifentanil will be maintained in the HD group. The primary outcome is the N75-P100 amplitude 1 h after the induction of anesthesia. We intend to use the dual measure evaluation, dual data entry, and statistical analysis by double trained assessors to ensure the reliability and accuracy of the results. Discussion This randomized controlled trial aims to explore the superiority effect of low inhaled concentration of desflurane combined with propofolremifentanil-balanced anesthesia versus high inhaled concentration of desflurane combined with remifentanil anesthesia on amplitude of FVEPs. The study is meant to be published in a peer-reviewed journal and might guide the anesthetic regimen for FVEPs. The conclusion is expected to provide high-quality evidence for the effect of desflurane on FVEPs and aim to explore more feasible anesthesia schemes for the clinical application of FVEPs and visual function protection. Trial registration This study was registered on clinicaltrials.gov on July 15, 2022. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05465330.

Abstract Designing ultralight conductive aerogels with tailored electrical and mechanical properties is critical for various applications. Conventional approaches rely on iterative, time-consuming experiments across a vast parameter space. Herein, an integrated workflow is developed to combine collaborative robotics with machine learning to accelerate the design of conductive aerogels with programmable properties. An automated pipetting robot is operated to prepare 264 mixtures of Ti3C2Tx MXene, cellulose, gelatin, and glutaraldehyde at different ratios/loadings. After freeze-drying, the aerogels’ structural integrity is evaluated to train a support vector machine classifier. Through 8 active learning cycles with data augmentation, 162 unique conductive aerogels are fabricated/characterized via robotics-automated platforms, enabling the construction of an artificial neural network prediction model. The prediction model conducts two-way design tasks: (1) predicting the aerogels’ physicochemical properties from fabrication parameters and (2) automating the inverse design of aerogels for specific property requirements. The combined use of model interpretation and finite element simulations validates a pronounced correlation between aerogel density and compressive strength. The model-suggested aerogels with high conductivity, customized strength, and pressure insensitivity allow for compression-stable Joule heating for wearable thermal management.

Combining multiple crop protection Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) as a team for a scheduled spraying mission over farmland now is a common way to significantly increase efficiency. However, given some issues such as different configurations, irregular borders, and especially varying pesticide requirements, it is more important and more complex than other multi-Agent Systems (MASs) in common use. In this work, we focus on the mission arrangement of UAVs, which is the foundation of other high-level cooperations, systematically propose Efficiency-first Spraying Mission Arrangement Problem (ESMAP), and try to construct a united problem framework for the mission arrangement of crop protection UAVs. Besides, to characterise the differences in sub-areas, the varying pesticide requirement per unit is well considered based on Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). Firstly, the mathematical model of multiple crop-protection UAVs is established and ESMAP is defined. Furthermore, an acquisition method of a farmland’s NDVI map is proposed, and the calculation method of pesticide volume based on NDVI is discussed. Secondly, an improved Genetic Algorithm (GA) is proposed to solve ESMAP, and a comparable combination algorithm is introduced. Numerical simulations for algorithm analysis are carried out within MATLAB, and it is determined that the proposed GA is more efficient and accurate than the latter. Finally, a mission arrangement tested with three UAVs was carried out to validate the effectiveness of the proposed GA in spraying operation. Test results illustrated that it performed well, which took only 90.6 % of the operation time taken by the combination algorithm.

Under the bounded rationality assumption, a principal rarely provides an optimal contract to an agent. Learning from others is one way to improve such a contract. This paper studies the efficiency of social network learning (SNL) in the principal–agent framework. We first introduce the Cobb-Douglas production function into the classic Holmstrom and Milgrom (1987) model with a constant relative risk-averse agent and work out the theoretically optimal contract. Algorithms are then designed to model the SNL process based on profit gaps between contracts in a network of principals. Considering the uncertainty of the agent's labor output, we find that the principals can reach a consensus that tends to result in overcompensation compared to the optimal contract. Then, this study examines how network attributes and model parameters impact learning efficiency and posits several summative hypotheses. The simulation results validate these hypotheses, and we discuss the relevant economic implications of the observed changes in SNL efficiency.

Fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGF1) regulates vertebrate cell growth, proliferation and differentiation, and energy metabolism. In this study, we cloned rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) fgf1 and fgf1a, prepared their recombinant proteins (rFGF1 and rFGF1a), and described the molecular mechanisms by which they improve glycolipid metabolism in carnivorous fish. A 31-d feeding trial was conducted to investigate whether they could enhance glycolipid metabolism in rainbow trout on high-carbohydrate diets (HCD). A total of 720 rainbow trout (8.9 ± 0.5 g) were equally divided into 4 groups: the chow diet (CD) group injected with PBS, the HCD group injected with PBS, the HCD group injected with rFGF1 (400 ng/g body weight), and the HCD group injected with rFGF1a (400 ng/g body weight). The results showed that short-term HCD had a significant positive effect on the specific growth rate (SGR) of rainbow trout (P

Abstract The camouflaged object segmentation model (COSM) has recently gained substantial attention due to its remarkable ability to detect camouflaged objects. Nevertheless, deep vision models are widely acknowledged to be susceptible to adversarial examples, which can mislead models, causing them to make incorrect predictions through imperceptible perturbations. The vulnerability to adversarial attacks raises significant concerns when deploying COSM in security-sensitive applications. Consequently, it is crucial to determine whether the foundational vision model COSM is also susceptible to such attacks. To our knowledge, our work represents the first exploration of strategies for targeting COSM with adversarial examples in the digital world. With the primary objective of reversing the predictions for both masked objects and backgrounds, we explore the adversarial robustness of COSM in full white-box and black-box settings. In addition to the primary objective of reversing the predictions for masked objects and backgrounds, our investigation reveals the potential to generate any desired mask through adversarial attacks. The experimental results indicate that COSM demonstrates weak robustness, rendering it vulnerable to adversarial example attacks. In the realm of COS, the projected gradient descent (PGD) attack method exhibits superior attack capabilities compared to the fast gradient sign (FGSM) method in both white-box and black-box settings. These findings reduce the security risks in the application of COSM and pave the way for multiple applications of COSM.

Abstract In the field of deep learning, the attention mechanism, as a technology that mimics human perception and attention processes, has made remarkable achievements. The current methods combine a channel attention mechanism and a spatial attention mechanism in a parallel or cascaded manner to enhance the model representational competence, but they do not fully consider the interaction between spatial and channel information. This paper proposes a method in which a space embedded channel module and a channel embedded space module are cascaded to enhance the model’s representational competence. First, in the space embedded channel module, to enhance the representational competence of the region of interest in different spatial dimensions, the input tensor is split into horizontal and vertical branches according to spatial dimensions to alleviate the loss of position information when performing 2D pooling. To smoothly process the features and highlight the local features, four branches are obtained through global maximum and average pooling, and the features are aggregated by different pooling methods to obtain two feature tensors with different pooling methods. To enable the output horizontal and vertical feature tensors to focus on different pooling features simultaneously, the two feature tensors are segmented and dimensionally transposed according to spatial dimensions, and the features are later aggregated along the spatial direction. Then, in the channel embedded space module, for the problem of no cross-channel connection between groups in grouped convolution and for which the parameters are large, this paper uses adaptive grouped banded matrices. Based on the banded matrices utilizing the mapping relationship that exists between the number of channels and the size of the convolution kernels, the convolution kernel size is adaptively computed to achieve adaptive cross-channel interaction, enhancing the correlation between the channel dimensions while ensuring that the spatial dimensions remain unchanged. Finally, the output horizontal and vertical weights are used as attention weights. In the experiment, the attention mechanism module proposed in this paper is embedded into the MobileNetV2 and ResNet networks at different depths, and extensive experiments are conducted on the CIFAR-10, CIFAR-100 and STL-10 datasets. The results show that the method in this paper captures and utilizes the features of the input data more effectively than the other methods, significantly improving the classification accuracy. Despite the introduction of an additional computational burden (0.5 M), however, the overall performance of the model still achieves the best results when the computational overhead is comprehensively considered.