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This study presents a novel multistage expressway fast charging station (EFCS) planning problem coordinated with the dynamic regional power structure (PS) transformation. Under the prerequisite of the EFCS network's sustainable operation, network accessibility, and orderly construction, a three‐step planning method oriented to the enhancement of energy saving and emission reduction (ESER) benefits and rationalization of facility utilization is developed: (i) EV‐expanded network, (ii) multiagent‐based dynamic traffic assignment (MA‐DTA), and (iii) deployment refinement. Embedding the MA‐DTA and customized refinement strategy into the iterative planning structure enables the integration of operations and planning of the EFCS network. A numerical experiment and an empirical study in the Shandong Peninsula urban agglomeration are conducted. It demonstrates that the method can find a high‐quality solution within acceptable computation time and is applicable to realistic large‐scale EFCS planning. The planning method can effectively play the role of economy and facility in inducing EV users' charging demands, thus enhancing the overall ESER benefits. The integration of operation and planning is proven effective in reasonably matching the supply and demand of facility service and charging loads in a full‐time period. Further, the multistage EFCS planning schemes during 2025–2045 are explored, and some insightful policy implications are revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is one of the most common metabolic diseases around the world, which is distinguished by the abnormal buildup of triglycerides within adipose cells. Recent research has revealed that autophagy regulates lipid mobilization to maintain energy balance. TIGAR (Trp53 induced glycolysis regulatory phosphatase) has been identified as a glycolysis inhibitor, whether it plays a role in the metabolism of lipids is unknown. Here, we found that TIGAR transgenic (TIGAR+/+) mice exhibited increased fat mass and trended to obesity phenotype. Non-target metabolomics showed that TIGAR caused the dysregulation of the metabolism profile. The quantitative transcriptome sequencing identified an increased levels of LRRK2 and RAB7B in the adipose tissue of TIGAR+/+ mice. It was confirmed in vitro that TIGAR overexpression increased the levels of LRRK2 by inhibiting polyubiquitination degradation, thereby suppressing macroautophagy and chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA) while increasing lipid accumulation which were reversed by the LRRK2 inhibitor DNL201. Furthermore, TIGAR drove LRRK2 to interact with RAB7B for suppressing lysosomal degradation of lipid droplets, while the increased lipid droplets in adipocytes were blocked by the RAB7B inhibitor ML282. Additionally, fat-specific TIGAR knockdown of TIGAR+/+ mice alleviated the symptoms of obesity, and adipose tissues-targeting superiority DNL201 nano-emulsion counteracted the obesity phenotype in TIGAR+/+ mice. In summary, the current results indicated that TIGAR performed a vital function in the lipid metabolism through LRRK2-mediated negative regulation of macroautophagy and CMA in adipocyte. The findings suggest that TIGAR has the potential to serve as a viable therapeutic target for treating obesity and its associated metabolic dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this brief, a filtering power divider (FPD) with independently controllable four transmission zeros (TZs) and low insertion loss is designed and analyzed by using quad‐mode ring‐loaded resonator (QMRLR). The equivalent circuit of the proposed FPD is given, and the resonant characteristics of the resonator are analyzed. Due to the horizontal transmission interference of QMRLR, two TZs are realized. In addition, two TZs and one transmission pole are achieved by stepped impedance lines, achieving high selectivity within the passbands. The insertion loss is less than 0.5 dB, which is better than other FPDs. For demonstration, a prototype with center frequencies at 1.45 and 2.75 GHz is fabricated and measured. The measured and simulated results are presented with good agreement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractArteriovenous fistula (AVF) is the most commonly used vascular access for hemodialysis in patients with end-stage renal disease. Vascular diseases such as atherosclerosis and thrombosis, triggered by altered hemodynamic conditions, are the main causes of access failure. Changes in blood viscosity accelerate access dysfunction by affecting local velocities and wall shear stress (WSS) distribution in the circulation. Numerical simulation was employed to analyze and compare the hemodynamic behavior of AVF under different blood viscosities (0.001–0.012 Pa∙s). An idealized three-dimensional model with end-to-side anastomosis was established. Transient simulations were conducted using pulsatile inlet velocity and outflow as boundary conditions. The simulation results reveal the blood flow state of AVF under different viscosity physiological conditions and derive the rule of change. When blood viscosity increases, the local velocity in the disturbed region slows down and the stagnation time becomes longer, resulting in increased deposition of substances. As blood viscosity increases, the level of shear stress on the entire wall of the fistula increases accordingly. WSS values at high viscosities above 0.007 Pa∙s showed significantly larger low-shear regions near the anastomosis and increased chances of inducing atheromatous plaques. This research has revealed the correlation between blood dynamic viscosity and the hemodynamic behavior of AVF. Elevated whole blood viscosity increases the incidence of access obstruction and vascular disease leading to fistula failure. The study provides a basis for optimizing the distribution of hemodynamic parameters in the fistula for hemodialysis patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The isolation technologies are adopted to protect the long-span space structures from serious damage under the action of earthquakes. When the isolation system is applied to the space structures, both horizontal and vertical vibration control effects on the structures should be concerned. In this paper, a two-dimensional earthquake isolation and mitigation device (TEIMD) composed of a high-damping viscoelastic (VE) core pad and VE dampers is proposed. Based on the dynamic shear experiment results of the VE damper, the energy dissipation capability of VE material is preferable. Then, the nonlinear equivalent stiffness and equivalent damping ratio of the TEIMD in horizontal and vertical directions are evaluated by using the numerical simulation method. The TEIMDs are arranged on the column top of a double-layer grid structure to assess the isolation effectiveness of the novel device. The dynamic analysis results of the double-layer grid structure with and without TEIMD reveal that this novel device can significantly reduce the acceleration response of the upper grid by relying on the strong energy dissipation performances in the horizontal and vertical directions. This research also verifies the feasibility of applying the TEIMD to the double-layer grid structure, which can effectively dissipate the vertical vibration energy of the structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To explore the mediating role of self-esteem in the relationship between childhood adverse experiences (ACEs) and depressive symptoms of junior high school students, and the regulatory effect of social support. Methods A total of 1 308 students from 3 junior middle schools in Xiangxi were selected by stratified random cluster sampling from February to April 2023. A questionnaire survey was conducted with the use of Childhood adverse experience questionnaire, Adolescent social support scale, PHQ-9 Depression symptom screening scale, and Rosenberg self-esteem scale. The data were analyzed by correlation analysis, intermediary analysis, and moderated intermediary model test. Results (1) ACEs positively predicted depressive symptoms of junior high school students (β=0.801, t=7.246, P<0.05), while self-esteem and social support negatively predicted depressive symptoms of junior high school students (β=-0.406, t=-14.276, P < 0.05; β =-0.027, t=-2.781, P < 0.05). (2) Self-esteem played a mediating role between ACEs and depressive symptoms (effect=0.468, P < 0.05), and the mediating effect accounted for 31.33% of the total effect. (3) Social support directly regulated the relationship between ACEs and depressive symptoms (β=-0.017, t=-3.043, P<0.01), and social support played a regulatory role in the latter half of the mediating pathway of "ACEs self-esteem and depressive symptoms" (β=-0.004, t=-2.887, P<0.01). Conclusion There is a mediating effect between ACEs and depressive symptoms of junior high school students, and self-esteem is the mediating variable of the relationship between them. Social support buffers the influence of ACEs on the risk of depressive symptoms of junior high school students and strengthens the relationship between self-esteem and depressive symptoms. Therefore, giving more care and social support to junior high school students with ACEs and improving their self-esteem will help prevent and reduce the occurrence of depressive symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Chronic inflammation is one of the key mechanisms of depression. Wenyang-Tianjin-Jie Decoction (WTJD) is an effective antidepressant found in the course of diagnosis and treatment, but the mechanism of therapeutic effect is not clear. The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of WTJD in the kidney yang deficiency (KYD) type of depression rats and reveal its mechanisms. Materials and Methods: We selected forty 6-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats for the study. We established a KYD [Phellodendron amurense Rupr (Huangbai) solution oral gavage and 4°C environments; 8 weeks] type of depression (chronic unpredictable mild stimulus; 6 weeks) rat model first. After successful modeling, we used WTJD or fluoxetine on rats for 3 weeks. Then we evaluated the depression and KYD behavior. Finally, we observed the expression of key inflammatory factors and proteins in peripheral blood and hippocampus, and further investigated the immune balance of Th17/Treg and Th1/Th2 cells and the activity of their main regulatory pathways JAK2/STAT3 and TLR4/TRAF6/NF-κB. Results: The imbalance of Th17/Treg and Th1/Th2 cells in rats were related to KYD and depressive symptoms. Through this study, we found that WTJD can inhibit the activity of JAK2/STAT3 and TLR4/TRAF6/NF-κB pathways, balance Th17/Treg and Th1/Th2 cell homeostasis, regulate the levels of inflammatory factors in the hippocampus and peripheral blood, and reverse KYD and depression. Conclusion: This study confirmed that WTJD had a reliable effect on depression rats with KYD, and its mechanism was to regulate the immune homeostasis of hippocampal T cells and related inflammatory factors to improve KYD and depression symptoms in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving the fast-charging capabilities and energy storage capacity of electric vehicles presents a feasible strategy for mitigating the prevalent concern of range anxiety in the market. Nanostructure electrode materials play a crucial role in this process. However, the current method of preparation is arduous and yields restricted quantities. In view of this, we have devised an innovative approach that provides convenience and efficacy, facilitating the large-scale synthesis of CoS2 nanoparticles, which exhibited exceptional performance. When the current density was 1000 mA g−1, the discharging capacity reached 760 mAh g−1 after 400 cycles. Remarkably, even at an increased current density of 5000 mA g−1, the discharging capacity of CoS2 remained at 685.5 mAh g−1. The ultra-high performance could be attributed to the specific surface area, which minimized the diffusion distance of sodium-ions during the charging and discharging processes and mitigated the extent of structural damage. Our straightforward preparation techniques facilitate the mass production and present a novel approach for the development of cost-effective and high-performing anode materials for sodium-ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work reports the construction of a miniaturized Ag/AgCl nanoelectrode on a nanopipette, which is capable of dual-functions of single-cell drug infusion and chloride detection and is envisioned to promote the study of chloride-correlated therapeutic effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon monoxide (CO) as an endogenous gaseous signaling molecule, is widely studied for its ability to inhibit cancer cell proliferation as gas therapy. However, the therapeutic efficiency of CO gas therapy is far from ideal due to the low availability of CO supply. Here, inspired by the band structure and Fenton‐related elements, MIL‐101(Cr)@CoOx nanoparticles are introduced for the first time to achieve ultrasound‐mediated synergistic therapy by combining CO gas therapy and chemodynamic therapy together effectively. MIL‐101(Cr)@CoOx can present substantial CO2 adsorption capacity for the BDC2− linkers and Co center, and enable to transformation of endogenous CO2 to CO efficiently under ultrasound irradiation due to the appropriate band structure and conduction band position. With the Co‐engaged Fenton‐like reaction, MIL‐101(Cr)@CoOx triggered the reactions to catalyze the over‐expressed intracellular H2O2 into cytotoxic hydroxyl radicals (·OH). The potential therapeutic outcome of chemodynamic therapy can be amplified by the ultrasonic cavitation‐induced conversion between Co3+ and Co2+ in vitro is demonstrated. The proliferation, ATP, and mitochondria functions of 4T1 mouse breast cancer cells are severely compromised by CO‐promoted ROS generation and the sono‐Fenton effect. Further, in vivo studies confirm that MIL‐101(Cr)@CoOx combined with ultrasound irradiation exhibits superior tumor suppression, and achieves the ultrasound‐mediated chemodynamic‐gas cancer therapy with higher precisions for personalized treatments. This new system offers a distinct concept for constructing smart ultrasound‐stimulus systems to realize synergetic cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Whirligig beetles inhabit both fresh and brackish waters and possess a pair of split compound eyes. The dorsal eyes are situated above the water surface, whereas the ventral eyes are submerged beneath the water. Due to the difference in optical environments between water and air, we expected a difference in visual features and signal processing between the dorsal and ventral eyes. Using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and microcomputed tomography, we investigated the functional modifications of different features of the split compound eyes of Dineutus mellyi (Coleoptera: Gyrinidae). Both dorsal and ventral parts of the split compound eyes of D. mellyi are the superposition type, with the ommatidium of dorsal and ventral eyes comprised of a laminated corneal lens, bullet-shaped crystalline cone, upper distal rhabdom, a clear zone and lower distal rhabdom, a basal rhabdom, and an eight retinular cell just above the basement membrane. In contrast to the dorsal eyes, ventral eyes are characterized by a higher field of vision but exhibit similar spatial resolution. The functional anatomy of the split compound eyes of whirligig beetles Dineutus mellyi (Coleoptera: Gyrinidae) was examined by advanced microscopy and microcomputed tomography. We report the first 3D visualization and analysis of the split compound eyes. On average, the dorsal and ventral eyes contain 1913 ± 44.5 facets and 3099 ± 86.2 facets, respectively. The larger area of ventral eyes ensures a higher field of vision underwater. The ommatidium of the split compound eyes is made up of laminated cornea lenses that offer protection against mechanical injuries, bullet-shaped crystalline cones that guide light to the photoreceptive regions, and screening pigments that ensure directional light passage. The photoreceptive elements, made up of eight retinular cells, exhibit a tri-tiered rhabdom structure, including the upper distal rhabdom, a clear zone that ensures maximum light passage, and an enlarged lower distal rhabdom that ensures optimal photon capture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice effective panicle is a major trait for grain yield and is affected by both the genetic tiller numbers and the early tillering vigor (ETV) traits to survive environmental adversities. The mechanism behind tiller bud formation has been well described, while the genes and the molecular mechanism underlying rice-regulating ETV traits are unclear. In this study, the candidate genes in regulating ETV traits have been sought by quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping and bulk-segregation analysis by resequencing method (BSA-seq) conjoint analysis using rice backcross inbred line (BIL) populations, which were cultivated as late-season rice of double-cropping rice systems. By QTL mapping, seven QTLs were detected on chromosomes 1, 3, 4, and 9, with the logarithm of the odds (LOD) values ranging from 3.52 to 7.57 and explained 3.23% to 12.98% of the observed phenotypic variance. By BSA-seq analysis, seven QTLs on chromosomes 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, and 9 were identified using single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and insertions/deletions (InDel) index algorithm and Euclidean distance (ED) algorithm. The overlapping QTL resulting from QTL mapping and BSA-seq analysis was shown in a 1.39 Mb interval on chromosome 4. In the overlap interval, six genes, including the functional unknown genes Os04g0455650, Os04g0470901, Os04g0500600, and ethylene-insensitive 3 (Os04g0456900), sialyltransferase family domain containing protein (Os04g0506800), and ATOZI1 (Os04g0497300), showed the differential expression between ETV rice lines and late tillering vigor (LTV) rice lines and have a missense base mutation in the genomic DNA sequences of the parents. We speculate that the six genes are the candidate genes regulating the ETV trait in rice, which provides a research basis for revealing the molecular mechanism behind the ETV traits in rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sleep deprivation (SD) is commonplace in modern society and there are large individual differences in the vulnerability to SD. We aim to identify the structural network differences based on diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) that contribute to the individual different vulnerability to SD. Methods: The number of psychomotor vigilance task (PVT) lapses was used to classify 49 healthy subjects on the basis of whether they were vulnerable or resistant to SD. DTI and graph theory approaches were used to investigate the topologic organization differences of the brain structural connectome between SD‐vulnerable and ‐resistant individuals. We measured the level of global efficiency and clustering in rich club and non‐rich club organizations. Results: We demonstrated that participants vulnerable to SD had less global efficiency, network strength, and local efficiency but longer shortest path length compared with participants resistant to SD. Lower efficiency was mainly distributed in the right insula, bilateral thalamus, bilateral frontal, temporal, and temporal lobes. Furthermore, a disrupted subnetwork was observed that consisted of widespread connections. Moreover, the vulnerable group showed significantly decreased strength of the rich club compared with the resistant group. The strength of rich club connectivity was found to be correlated negatively with PVT performance (r = −0.395, p = 0.005). We further tested the reliability of the results. Conclusion: The findings revealed that individual differences in resistance to SD are related to disrupted topologic efficiency connectome pattern, and our study may provide potential connectome‐based biomarkers for the early detection of the vulnerable degree to SD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatoblastoma (HB) is a common primary liver malignant tumor in children. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are closely engaged in HB progression. The role and regulatory molecule mechanism of lncRNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 1 (SNHG1) in HB remain unclear. Through qRT-PCR or western blot, we found that SNHG1 and proviral integration site for moloney murine leukemia virus 3 (PIM3) were elevated but miR-6838-5p was decreased in HB cells. Cell biology experiments revealed that SNHG1 depletion or miR-6838-5p upregulation suppressed cell proliferation, migration, and invasion of HB cells. Mechanistically, luciferase activity assay validated that miR-6838-5p could interact with SNHG1 or PIM3. SNHG1 up-regulated PIM3 expression via sponging miR-6838-5p. Moreover, miR-6838-5p inhibitor abolished SNHG1 depletion-mediated suppression of malignant behaviors in HB cells. PIM3 overexpression neutralized miR-6838-5p mimics-mediated repression of malignant phenotypes in HB cells. Furthermore, miR-6838-5p overexpression suppressed RhoA activation, which was restored by PIM3 upregulation. What's more, the results at the cellular level were further verified by nude mice tumor formation experiment. In conclusion, SNHG1 regulated miR-6838-5p/PIM3/RhoA axis to promote malignant phenotypes of HB, which might provide novel therapeutic target for HB treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enterocytozoon bieneusi and Blastocystis may cause diarrhea in humans and various animals. However, little information is available regarding the prevalence and genetic diversity of E. bieneusi and Blastocystis in donkeys. To fill this gap, we molecularly assessed E. bieneusi and Blastocystis in fecal samples from donkeys (n = 815) in Shanxi Province, north China. The overall prevalence of E. bieneusi and Blastocystis in donkeys was 8.1% and 0.2%, respectively. Region and age were risk factors associated with E. bieneusi infection in donkeys. Three internal transcribed spacer (ITS) genotypes of E. bieneusi were identified in the current study, including two previously described genotypes (D and Henan-IV) and one novel genotype (named SXD1). Of which, genotype D was found to be the most prevalent. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that the three genotypes belonged to group 1, implying a potential of zoonotic transmission. Multilocus sequence typing showed that 19, 15, 13, and 22 types were identified at the loci MS1, MS3, MS4, and MS7, respectively, forming six multilocus genotypes (MLGs) distributed in the genotype D. One Blastocystis subtype (ST33) was identified, which has previously been reported only in horses. This is the first molecular-based description of E. bieneusi and Blastocystis infections in donkeys in Shanxi Province, north China, contributing to a better understanding of transmission dynamics and molecular epidemiological characteristics of the two intestinal protozoa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microwave sintering is a key technology for future lunar habitats, which has been verified by various lunar soil simulant experiments. However, nanophase iron (np-Fe0), a unique component of the real lunar regolith, has been ignored in previous studies of the microwave sintering of lunar soil simulants. In this study, microwave-sintering experiments of lunar soil simulant CLRS-2 with and without np-Fe0 at different temperatures were conducted. A comparison of the microstructure and chemical composition of sintered products indicates that all products of samples with 1.0 wt% np-Fe0 exhibit better properties than those without np-Fe0 after heating at equivalent temperatures. Adding np-Fe0 to the lunar soil simulant CLRS-2 couples well with microwaves, which may increase the real heating temperature in a sample, resulting in the product being solidified at 700 °C and a relatively dense product forming at 900 °C, thus improving the sintering efficiency. This study suggests that microwave sintering is an effective potential technology for future lunar habitats and road hardening because of the wide distribution of np-Fe0 in the lunar regolith. The technical parameters given in this study can provide an important guide for future lunar construction by microwave sintering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the content and calculation equations of each substance in diamond wire saw silicon powder (DWSSP) were determined. Initially, the presence of amorphous SiO2 was proven by crystal transformation. Then, the SiO2 content was determined by SiO2-CaO phase diagram analysis, and the SiOx content was determined by using the oxygen conservation rule. The variation trend between the SiO2, SiOx, and Si contents and the O content was determined, according to the calculated SiO2 and SiOx content. In addition, linear fitting was performed on the SiO2, SiOx, and Si contents of five DWSSP raw materials, and a calculation equation for SiO2, SiOx, and Si was obtained through the total O content. The three-layer structure of DWSSP was revealed, the DWSSP consisting of a Si core, an intermediate SiOx layer, and a SiO2 shell. This study can accurately identify the content of SiO2, SiOx, and Si in DWSSP based on the detected oxygen content, and provide a better theoretical basis for the process selection and design for silicon recovery or high value materials preparation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MXenes exhibit significant potential in thermoelectric materials owing to their exceptional electrical conductivity; however, their limited number of semiconductors restricts their application. Thus, it is highly desirable to expand the MXene family beyond carbides and nitrides to broaden their applications in thermoelectricity. In this work, we systematically investigate the thermoelectric transport of Ti2OX2 (X = F, Cl) MOene through comprehensively evaluating the electron–phonon coupling (EPC) from first principles. Our findings first emphasize the limitations of the deformation potential theory method and stress the importance of considering EPC. Ti2OF2 (Ti2OCl2) monolayer exhibits exceptional electronic transport, with Seebeck coefficients reaching 1483.87 (1206.22) μV/K and electrical conductivity reaching 9.5 × 105 (7.6 × 105) Ω−1 m−1 at room temperature for its N-type counterpart. Additionally, the presence of degenerate multiple valleys and peaks significantly enhances their electronic transport. For phonon transport, EPC results in a significant reduction in lattice thermal conductivity (kL) [e.g., at 300 K with 1.44 × 1015 (1.68 × 1015) cm−2 of hole, the reduction is 86.3% (73.3%) for Ti2OF2 (Ti2OCl2)]. Additionally, their kL demonstrates a strong correlation with the density of states at corresponding Fermi levels. Moreover, the kL and total thermal conductivity of P-type Ti2OF2 show T-independence, making it suitable for applications in aviation and thermal insulation materials. Finally, N-type Ti2OF2 and Ti2OCl2 demonstrate superior zT values of 0.63 and 0.9 at 900 K, respectively. This study provides in-depth insights into the superior thermoelectric properties of Ti2OX2 (X = F, Cl) MOene with considering EPC, providing a novel platform for the next-generation thermoelectric field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article titled "Wenyang-Tianjing-Jieyu Decoction Improves Depression Rats of Kidney Yang Deficiency Pattern by Regulating T Cell Homeostasis and Inflammation Level [Corrigendum]" discusses a correction to the original article. The authors have identified an error in the value for Huangbai solution gavage in the Experimental Design section and Figure 1. The correct value is 3.24 g/kg, not 0.36 g/kg as previously stated. The correction is reflected in the updated text and figure provided in the corrigendum. [Extracted from the article]

In the phase 3 KEYNOTE-564 study (NCT03142334), adjuvant pembrolizumab prolonged disease-free survival (DFS) in patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) at increased risk of recurrence after nephrectomy compared with placebo (DFS at 24 months: 77.3% vs 68.1%; hazard ratio [HR] for recurrence or death, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.53-0.87; P=0.002).;Continued DFS improvement with adjuvant pembrolizumab was observed after 30 months of follow-up. Results of a post hoc exploratory analysis of DFS in patient subgroups based on UCLA Integrated Staging System (UISS) risk groups and disease stage are reported. Patients with histologically confirmed ccRCC (pT2, grade 4 or sarcomatoid, N0, M0; pT3 or pT4, any grade, N0, M0; any pT, any grade, N+, M0; or M1 with no evidence of disease [NED]) were randomly assigned 1:1 to receive intravenous pembrolizumab 200 mg or placebo every 3 weeks for up to 17 cycles (∼1 year). DFS was assessed by investigator. UISS risk groups were derived retrospectively from TNM stage, Fuhrman nuclear grade, and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS). UISS groups were intermediate risk (pT2, grade 4, N0, M0; pT3, grade 1, N0, M0; or pT3, grades 2-4, N0, M0, ECOG PS of 0), high risk (pT3, grades 2-4, N0, M0, ECOG PS 1; pT4, any grade, N0, M0; or N1, M0), or M1 NED. Other subgroups based on disease stage were also evaluated. Baseline characteristics were generally balanced within subgroups. Median follow-up was 30.1 months (range, 20.8-47.5). Of 994 enrolled patients, most had UISS intermediate risk (n = 732 [73.6%]; pembrolizumab, n = 359; placebo, n = 373); 195 patients (19.6%; pembrolizumab, n = 100; placebo, n = 95) had UISS high risk, and 58 patients (5.8%; pembrolizumab, n = 29; placebo, n = 29) had M1 NED. DFS favored pembrolizumab versus placebo in the UISS intermediate-risk group (HR, 0.65 [95% CI, 0.48-0.88]; 24-month rate: 81.5% vs 72.4%), UISS high-risk group (HR, 0.77 [95%;CI, 0.49-1.20]; 24-month rate: 65.0% vs 55.9%), and M1 NED group (HR, 0.28 [95% CI, 0.12-0.66]; 24-month rate: 78.4% vs 37.9%). DFS favored pembrolizumab versus placebo across all patient subgroups based on disease stage (Table). Consistent with the results of the intention-to-treat (ITT) population, adjuvant pembrolizumab prolonged DFS compared with placebo for all patient subgroups based on UISS risk groups and disease stage. Taken together with results in the ITT population, these results further support the use of adjuvant pembrolizumab as standard of care for patients with RCC at increased risk of recurrence after nephrectomy. ©2023 American Society of Clinical Oncology, Inc. Reused with permission. This abstract was accepted and previously presented at the 2023 Genitourinary Cancers Symposium. All rights reserved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Two poorly performing HCIC ligands were utilized to construct a dual-ligand system. • The dual-ligand system exhibited superior static and dynamic adsorption capabilities. • Molecular docking is used as an auxiliary tool to explain differences in selectivity. • The dual-ligand system separated antibodies from human serum with better performance. In conventional chromatographic ligand screening, underperforming ligands are often dismissed. However, this practice may inadvertently overlook potential opportunities. This study aims to investigate whether these underperforming ligands can be repurposed as valuable assets. Hydrophobic charge-induction chromatography (HCIC) is chosen as the validation target for its potential as an innovative chromatographic mode. A novel dual-ligand approach is employed, combining two suboptimal ligands (5-Aminobenzimidazole and Tryptamine) to explore enhanced performance and optimization prospects. Various dual-ligand HCIC resins with different ligand densities were synthesized by adjusting the ligand ratio and concentration. The resins were characterized to assess appearance, functional groups, and pore features using SEM, FTIR, and ISEC techniques. Performance assessments were conducted using single-ligand mode resins as controls, evaluating the selectivity against human immunoglobulin G and human serum albumin. Static adsorption experiments were performed to understand pH and salt influence on adsorption. Breakthrough experiments were conducted to assess dynamic adsorption capacity of the novel resin. Finally, chromatographic separation using human serum was performed to evaluate the purity and yield of the resin. Results indicated that the dual-ligand HCIC resin designed for human antibodies demonstrates exceptional selectivity, surpassing not only single ligand states but also outperforming certain high-performing ligand types, particularly under specific salt and pH conditions. Ultimately, a high yield of 83.9 % and purity of 96.7 % were achieved in the separation of hIgG from human serum with the dual-ligand HCIC, significantly superior to the single-ligand resins. In conclusion, through rational design and proper operational conditions, the dual-ligand mode can revitalize underutilized ligands, potentially introducing novel and promising chromatographic modes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] A concise and collective biomimetic synthesis of myrtucommulones K-L and N, as well as callistiviminenes F-H, has been achieved utilizing a mild Me 2 AlCl-mediated hetero-Diels-Alder reaction as a pivotal step, all in only three steps without the need for protecting groups from readily available compounds. This approach exhibits excellent regioselectivity and good diastereoselectivity, operates under exceptionally mild conditions , and delivers good yields. Furthermore, this synthesis has led to the revision of the structure of myrtucommulone L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-dimensional (2D) materials have garnered significant attention due to their exceptional thermoelectric properties. In this study, 2D Janus HfXY (X≠Y, X/Y=Cl, Br, I) monolayer materials are comprehensively examined using ab initio methods to ascertain their potential as promising thermoelectric (TE) materials. Our predictions reveal that these Janus materials exhibit favorable dynamic, thermal and mechanical stabilities. These materials are predicted to exhibit semiconductor characteristics, showcasing indirect HSE06 band gaps ranging from 1.30 eV to 1.44 eV when accounting for the spin-coupling effect. Furthermore, the calculated lattice thermal conductivities are 22.38 W/mK for Janus HfBrCl, 11.86 W/mK for Janus HfBrI, and 7.79 W/mK for Janus HfClI monolayers. These figures notably reside below the thermal conductivities found in the extensively employed transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs). These Janus materials are predicted to have higher electron carrier mobilities ranging from 1220 cm2/sV to 4289 cm2/sV, surpassing the majority of other 2D materials. The enhanced electron carrier mobility result in good n-type power factor parameters, ranging from 58.20 mW/mK2 to 247.40 mW/mK2 between 300 K and 600 K. Such merits of lower thermal conductivities and higher power factor parameters endow these monolayers with the large figure of merit (zT) values for n-doping types along x (y) directions: 0.87 (0.88) for Janus HfBrCl, 1.62 (1.80) for Janus HfBrI, and 1.67 (2.15) for Janus HfClI at 300 K. Furthermore, these zT values can further increase along with external temperature increasing. These calculated thermoelectric figure of merit values surpass those of Hafnium-based TMDCs. Our study highlights the promising prospects of 2D Janus HfXY (X≠Y, X/Y=Cl, Br, I) monolayers as strong contenders for applications in thermoelectric conversion devices. • The electron carrier mobilities of HfXY (X≠Y, X/Y=Cl, Br, I) ranging from 1220 cm2/sV to 4289 cm2/sV. • The electron carrier mobility ranging from 58.20 mW/mK2 to 247.40 mW/mK2 between 300 K and 600 K. • These thermoelectric figure of merit values of HfXY (X≠Y, X/Y=Cl, Br, I) materials surpass those of Hafnium-based TMDCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease that seriously threatens the quality of life of the elderly. Its pathogenesis has not yet been fully elucidated. Ferroptosis, a cell death caused by excessive accumulation of iron-dependent lipid peroxides, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of AD. Uncontrolled lipid peroxidation is the core process of ferroptosis, and inhibiting lipid peroxidation of ferroptosis may be an important therapeutic target for AD. Based on previous studies, we mixed standards of icariin, astragaloside IV, and puerarin, named the standard mixture YHG, and investigated the effect of YHG on ferroptosis -lipid peroxidation in APP/PS1 mice. DFX, a ferroptosis inhibitor, was used as a control drug. In this study, APP/PS1 mice were used as an AD animal model, and behavioral experiments, iron level detection, Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observation, lipid peroxidation level detection, antioxidant capacity detection, immunofluorescence, Western blot and real-time qPCR were performed. It was found that YHG could reduce body weight, significantly improve abnormal behaviors and the ultrastructure of hippocampal neurons in APP/PS1 mice. The results of biochemical tests showed that YHG reduced the contents of iron, malondialdehyde (MDA) and lipid peroxide (LPO) in brain tissue and serum, and increased the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and reduced glutathione (GSH). Immunofluorescence, WesternBlot and real-time qPCR results showed that YHG could promote the expression of solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11), solute carrier family 3 member 2 (SLC3A2) and glutathione peroxidase 4(GPX4). Inhibited the expression of long-chain acyllipid coenzyme a synthetase 4(ACSL4) and lysophosphatidyltransferase 3 (LPCAT3). This study suggests that the mechanism by which YHG improves cognitive dysfunction in APP/PS1 mice may be related to the inhibition of ferroptosis-lipid peroxidation. • A combination of icariin, astragaloside IV, and puerarin, defined as YHG, was chosen instead of a single compound as a therapeutic agent. • YHG improved cognitive dysfunction in APP/PS1 mice. • YHG inhibits ferroptosis-lipid peroxidation in APP/PS1 mice, and the mechanism is related to the regulation of SystemXc-GPX4-ACSL4-LPCAT3 process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are composed of sensor nodes with sensing, computing and wireless communication abilities. All sensor nodes have the task of monitoring environmental conditions, collecting and transmitting data. In the field of WSNs, maximizing the coverage of the target region is a key optimization problem. Mayfly algorithm (MA) is a metaheuristic algorithm, which has been successfully implemented to solve various practical issues. This paper presents an elite opposition-based bare bones mayfly algorithm (EOBBMA), which introduces Gaussian distribution and Lévy flight, ameliorates the shortage of too many initial parameters of MA, and introduces an elite opposition-based learning (EOBL) strategy to enhance the exploration ability of the algorithm. Finally, we use EOBBMA to relocate the mobile sensors after the initial deployment, aiming at maximizing the coverage area, minimizing the redundant area and minimizing the moving distance. EOBBMA and seven other algorithms are tested in eight scales. The experimental results reveal that the coverage rate of the sensor deployment scheme obtained by EOBBMA is more than 85%, and the highest coverage is 99.6%. Considering all aspects of performance, compared with other algorithms, EOBBMA has significant superiority for WSNs coverage problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing accumulation of plastic waste in the environment has created novel habitats known as the "plastisphere", where microorganisms can thrive. Concerns are rising about the potential for pathogenic microorganisms to proliferate in the plastisphere, posing risks to human health. However, our knowledge regarding the virulence and pathogenic potential of these microorganisms in the plastisphere remains limited. This study quantified the abundance of virulence factor genes (VFGs) in the plastisphere and its surrounding environments (water and soil) to better assess pathogenic risks. Our findings revealed a selective enrichment of VFGs in the plastisphere, which were attributed to the specific microbial community assembled. The presence of arsenic and ciprofloxacin in the plastisphere exerted additional co-selective pressures, intensifying the enrichment of VFGs. Notably, VFGs that encoded multiple functions or enhanced the survival of host microorganisms (e.g., encoding adherence functions) tended to accumulate in the plastisphere. These versatile and environmentally adaptable VFGs are more likely to be favored by bacteria in the environment, warranting increased attention in future investigations due to their potential for widespread dissemination. In terms of virulence and pathogenicity, this research offers new insights into evaluating pathogen-related risks in the plastisphere. [Display omitted] • The VFGs is selective enrichment driven by unique microbial community in plastisphere. • The transfer of VFGs from soil to water escalated microbiological risks in plastisphere. • Co-pollution of arsenic and ciprofloxacin amplified the VFGs enrichment in plastisphere. • Multifunctional and adaptable VFGs tended to accumulate in the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid-charging capability of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) can effectively alleviate the load on new energy vehicles. The electrode material's structure can be severely harmed by rapid charging and discharging, necessitating the use of electrode materials that exhibit excellent performance in fast-charging. In order to enhance the rapid charging capability of LIBs while maintaining a large capacity, we utilized nanotechnology and carbon coating to create Ge-CNFs, which are rod-shaped germanium/carbon nanofibers. These Ge-CNFs serve to mitigate the volume fluctuations of germanium. Ge-CNFs-(700) demonstrated remarkable electrochemical characteristics and durability, maintaining a 795.9 mAh∙g−1 capacity even after 100 cycles at 0.1 A∙g−1, a capacity of 281.6 mAh∙g−1 capacity after 5000 cycles at 5 A∙g−1, and achieved a Coulombic Efficiency of 99.76 %. Furthermore, the Ge-CNFs-(700)/LCO full cell achieving a discharge capacity of 124 mAh∙g−1 after 100 cycles when operated at a current density of 0.2 A∙g−1. The main reason for the excellent electrochemical performance was the ability of CNFs to reduce crushing by serving as a buffer to absorb mechanical stress resulting from volume changes when lithium ions are intercalated/deintercalated. The electrospinning technique used to create a rod-shaped structure, along with its outstanding electrochemical capabilities, showcases the promise of germanium-based materials for rapid charging in electric vehicles. • Combined the advantages of nanotechnology and carbon coating to design one-dimensional rod-shaped Ge-CNFs nanofibers. • Ge-CNFs-(700) exhibited ultra-high fast-charging performance and stability, retaining 281.6 mAh∙g−1 after 5000 cycles at 5 A∙g−1. • Ge-CNFs-(700)/LCO full cell achieving an excellent discharge capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) has been recently demonstrated as a potential diagnostic biomarker for thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA). However, its precise role in the progression of TAA remains unclear. In this study, TAA models were established in ApoE-knockout mice and primary mouse vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) through treatment with angiotensin (Ang) II. Our findings revealed a downregulation of ESR1 in Ang II-induced TAA mice and VSMCs. Upregulation of ESR1 mitigated expansion and cell apoptosis in the mouse aorta, reduced pathogenetic transformation of VSMCs, and reduced inflammatory infiltration and oxidative stress both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, we identified macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) as a biological target of ESR1. ESR1 bound to the MIF promoter to suppress its transcription. Artificial MIF restoration negated the mitigating effects of ESR1 on TAA. Additionally, we discovered that murine double minute 2 (MDM2) was highly expressed in TAA models and mediated protein degradation of ESR1 through ubiquitination modification. Silencing of MDM2 reduced VSMC dedifferentiation and suppressed oxidative stress. However, these effects were reversed upon further silencing of ESR1. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that MDM2 activates MIF by mediating ESR1 degradation, thus promoting VSMC dedifferentiation and oxidative stress during TAA progression. • ESR1 is downregulated in TAA and correlates with oxidative stress. • ESR1 upregulation alleviates aorta expansion and oxidative stress in TAA mice. • ESR1 upregulation alleviates Ang II-induced VSMC dedifferentiation and oxidative stress. • MDM2 mediates ESR1 protein degradation to rescue MIF transcription. • MDM2 silencing attenuates VSMC transition, whereas MIF upregulation augments it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Fabry-Perot resonant cavity has been recognized as a crucial mechanism for confining Terahertz (THz) waves. However, the efficiency of the Fabry-Perot device has been hampered by the absence of lossless materials. In this study, we present a Fabry-Perot resonant cavity with enhanced efficiency, utilizing one-step laser-induced graphene without complex fabrication process. Firstly, the THz response of the samples induced by varying laser power and scanning velocity is systematically studied and measured through Terahertz frequency-domain spectroscopy (THz-FDS). Subsequently, Fourier transform is applied to facilitate quantitative analysis of the resonance intensity. Finally, the optimal resonance intensity of the device is achieved by dynamically adjusting the laser power and scanning velocity. This research introduces an innovative and technically simple approach for enhancing light-matter interactions in the THz region. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal ions and organic pollutants discharged into various water bodies have caused serious water pollution, and the efficient removal of these contaminants remains a challenge. Here, we report a novel MXene/poly-melamine-formaldehyde (PMF) composite membrane, in which the PMF particles serve as spacers, and the –NH 2 groups of PMF and the hydroxyl groups of MXene nanosheets have a synergistic effect on the adsorption of pollutants, and the crosslinking of glutaraldehyde inhibits the swelling of the composite membrane. The MXene/PMF composite membrane with 83.7% PMF particle loading displays a water permeability of 381.2 L m−2 h−1 bar−1 (405% that of MXene membrane) and excellent adsorption ability. In static adsorption, the removal rates of Zn2+, Pb2+, phenol, and crystal violet reach 96.2%, 91.7%, 99.1%, and 96.4% respectively, 20∼100% higher than those of MXene membranes. In dynamic adsorption, the breakthrough volumes of the membrane for 2 ppm p-nitrophenol solution and methyl blue solution reach 75 mL (about 8500 times membrane volume) and 350 mL (about 39800 times membrane volume), and the saturation volumes are 1500 mL and 5000 mL, respectively. After cyclic adsorption/desorption for four times, the removal rate of the membranes still maintains above 90%. This work provides an efficient composite membrane for removing pollutants from wastewater. [Display omitted] • A novel MXene/poly-melamine-formaldehyde (PMF) composite membrane are prepared. • The introduction of PMF particles widens the transmission channel and increases water permeance. • PMF and MXene nanosheets have a synergistic effect on the adsorption of pollutants. • Removal rates of Zn2+, Pb2+, phenol and crystal violet by MXene composite membranes are above 90%. • After 4 times of use, the removal rate of pollutant of composite membrane is above 90%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel Ni 6 -based MOF was successfully synthesized and utilized as a molecular electrocatalyst for four types of alkaline alcohol oxidation reactions (AOR). [Display omitted] • A novel highly-connected Ni 6 -based MOF (CTGU-38) has been successfully synthesized and characterized. • CTGU-38 exhibits good electrocatalytic performance toward four kinds of alkaline alcohol oxidation reactions (AOR). • This work provides a new vision for designing molecular electrocatalysts for energy conversion. Designing economical and efficient anode catalysts is critical for the commercial use of direct alcohol fuel cells (DAFCs). In this work, a novel Ni(II)-based metal–organic framework (MOF), {[Ni 3 (μ 3 -OH)(TMBTI)(1,4-bib)(H 3 O)} n (H 6 TMBTI = 2,4,6-trimethylbenzene-1,3,5-triylisophthalate, 1,4-bib = 1,4-bis(1-imidazoly)benzene) (CTGU-38, CTGU = China Three Gorges University), was successfully synthesized through solvothermal method. Structural analyses reveal that the CTGU-38 possesses a unique Ni 6 (μ 3 -OH) 2 (COO) 12 cluster and 3D porous framework with a rare (6,16)-connected topology. Further electrochemical experiments demonstrate that the CTGU-38 exhibits good electrocatalytic oxidation performance towards various alcohol fuel molecules, including the methanol oxidation reaction (MOR), ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR), n -propanol oxidation reaction (NPOR), and isopropanol oxidation reaction (IPOR), with peak current densities ranging from 26.9 to 54.46 mA cm−2 in alkaline solution. These results indicate that the CTGU-38 appears to be a potential non-noble metal-based electrocatalyst for DAFCs, and this work provides new insights into the design of more efficient electrocatalysts at the atomic scale for energy conversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optical absorption (at room temperature), fluorescence (at room temperature and T = 78 K) and phosphorescence (at T = 78 K) spectra of solution of the molecular complex based on tryptanthrin with platinum chloride and DMSO [Pt(Try)(DMSO)Cl 2 ] (Try-Pt) was investigated. The positions of the first excited singlet (S 1) and triplet (T 1) energy levels were obtained. It was shown that in the excited state intramolecular singlet excitations energy transfer inside tryptanthrin π-electron system between two centers of optical absorption (that absorb equally) exists. It was found out the optical response of toxic influence of platinum chloride on tryptanthrin π-electron system inside this molecular complex as it is shown by us for a number of polynucleotides. Contrary to singlet energy transfer no intramolecular triplet electronic excitations energy transfer inside tryptanthrin π-electron system between both optical centers is observed. Taking into account the facts that such complexes can easy bind to telomeric G4 DNA the studied phenomena can be used for the design of new effective antitumor and anti-inflammatory drugs. • Optical absorption, fluorescence and phosphorescence spectra of the molecular complex [Pt(Tryptanthrin)(DMSO)Cl 2 ]. • The excited state intramolecular singlet excitations energy transfer inside Try π-electron system between two absorb centers exists. • No intramolecular triplet electronic excitations energy transfer inside tryptanthrin π-electron system is observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A staged data preprocessing strategy for honey peach young fruit is designed. • The SCAE is proposed to ensure the discriminability of the extracted features. • The SCAE is embedded into the DeepSORT to form the DeepSORT-SCAE approach. • The DeepSORT-SCAE can measure the spatially continuous trajectory of the young fruit. • The effectiveness of the developed method is verified by experiments. The young fruit bagging robot usually preferentially selects the object with largest prediction box size for bagging. However, due to the uncertainty in the output of the traditional models, the expected endpoint of mechanical motion may change constantly, which affects the bagging efficiency. This paper proposes a novel tracking algorithm for honey peach young fruit targets. Firstly, according to the proportion of young fruit prediction box in the original image, a staged data preprocessing strategy is designed. Then, the siamese convolution autoencoder (SCAE) is developed by combining autoencoding mechanism with siamese training mode, and the SCAE is trained in two-stages to ensure the discriminability of the extracted appearance features. Finally, the SCAE is inserted into the DeepSORT architecture to generate the DeepSORT-SCAE object tracking algorithm, which can measure the spatially continuous trajectory of multiple young fruit targets within video streams. The effectiveness of the developed method is verified by experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of analytical chemistry relies on the ability for rapid and accurate determination of the substances and molecules. To date, tremendous efforts have been made to explore chemical and biological sensing systems for various related applications including chemical analysis, environmental monitoring, and medical care. Specifically, the rising of two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials promotes the exploration of advanced sensing systems with high sensitivity and responsivity owing to the novel properties and functions. In recent years, metal organic frameworks (MOFs) with pristine merits on adjustable chemical structure, large specific surface area, and accessible surface engineering behaviors have been rapidly developed as highly desired sensing materials. For biological sensors, functional designed 2D MOFs and MOF-based nanomaterials usually possess high sensitivity and responsivity for a broad variety of analytes, which provided great feasibility as the building blocks to achieve specific applications. However, only limited 2D MOFs and MOF-based nanomaterials are reported with abnormalities to operate in biological systems due to complex working phenomenon restrain its intrinsic performance. Therefore, we contribute a timely review on the current developments and researches that attributed to various biosensors and different biological sensing approaches (electrochemical, photoelectrochemical, luminescence, etc.) are necessary. This review provides a brief overview on the current challenges and new frontiers of fabrication as well as design on biosensing 2D MOFs and MOF-based nanomaterials, which would guide the exploration of novel 2D materials that capable of high selectivity and sensitivity in complex biological fluids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) is a rare bone marrow disorder characterized by a severe reduction or absence of erythroid precursor cells, without affecting granulocytes and megakaryocytes. Immunosuppressive therapies, particularly cyclosporine, have demonstrated efficacy as a primary treatment. This study aims to develop a predictive model for assessing the efficacy of cyclosporine in acquired PRCA (aPRCA). This retrospective study encompasses newly treated aPRCA patients at the General Hospital of Tianjin Medical University. Diagnosis criteria include severe anemia, and absolute reticulocyte count below 10 × 109/L, with normal white blood cell and platelet counts, and a severe reduction in bone marrow erythroblasts. Cyclosporine therapy was administered, with dose adjustments based on blood concentration. Response to cyclosporine was evaluated according to established criteria. Statistical analysis involved logistic multi-factor regression, generating a predictive model. The study included 112 aPRCA patients with a median age of 63.5 years. Patients presented with severe anemia (median Hb, 56 g/L) and reduced reticulocyte levels. Eighty-six patients had no bone marrow nucleated erythroblasts. Primary PRCA accounted for 62 cases (55.4%), and secondary PRCA accounted for 50 cases (44.6%). Univariate analysis revealed that ferritin, platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and CD4/CD8 ratio influenced treatment response. Multivariate analysis further supported the predictive value of these factors. A prediction model was constructed using ferritin, PLR, and CD4/CD8 ratio, demonstrating high sensitivity and specificity. The ferritin, PLR, and CD4/CD8-based nomogram showed good predictive ability for aPRCA response to cyclosporine. This model has potential clinical value for individualized diagnosis and treatment of aPRCA patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obtaining accurate and real-time spatial distribution information regarding crops is critical for enabling effective smart agricultural management. In this study, innovative decision fusion strategies, including Enhanced Overall Accuracy Index (E-OAI) voting and the Overall Accuracy Index-based Majority Voting (OAI-MV), were introduced to optimize the use of diverse remote sensing data and various classifiers, thereby improving the accuracy of crop/vegetation identification. These strategies were utilized to integrate crop/vegetation classification outcomes from distinct feature sets (including Gaofen-6 reflectance, Sentinel-2 time series of vegetation indices, Sentinel-2 time series of biophysical variables, Sentinel-1 time series of backscatter coefficients, and their combinations) using distinct classifiers (Random Forests (RFs), Support Vector Machines (SVMs), Maximum Likelihood (ML), and U-Net), taking two grain-producing areas (Site #1 and Site #2) in Haixi Prefecture, Qinghai Province, China, as the research area. The results indicate that employing U-Net on feature-combined sets yielded the highest overall accuracy (OA) of 81.23% and 91.49% for Site #1 and Site #2, respectively, in the single classifier experiments. The E-OAI strategy, compared to the original OAI strategy, boosted the OA by 0.17% to 6.28%. Furthermore, the OAI-MV strategy achieved the highest OA of 86.02% and 95.67% for the respective study sites. This study highlights the distinct strengths of various remote sensing features and classifiers in discerning different crop and vegetation types. Additionally, the proposed OAI-MV and E-OAI strategies effectively harness the benefits of diverse classifiers and multisource remote sensing features, significantly enhancing the accuracy of crop/vegetation classification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: To compare image quality, iodine intake, and radiation dose in overweight and obese patients undergoing abdominal computed tomography (CT) enhancement using different scanning modes and contrast medium. METHODS: Ninety overweight and obese patients (25 kg/m2≤body mass index (BMI)< 30 kg/m2 and BMI≥30 kg/m2) who underwent abdominal CT-enhanced examinations were randomized into three groups (A, B, and C) of 30 each and scanned using gemstone spectral imaging (GSI) +320 mgI/ml, 100 kVp + 370 mgI/ml, and 120 kVp + 370 mgI/ml, respectively. Reconstruct monochromatic energy images of group A at 50–70 keV (5 keV interval). The iodine intake and radiation dose of each group were recorded and calculated. The CT values, contrast-to-noise ratios (CNRs), and subjective scores of each subgroup image in group A versus images in groups B and C were by using one-way analysis of variance or Kruskal–Wallis H test, and the optimal keV of group A was selected. RESULTS: The dual-phase CT values and CNRs of each part in group A were higher than or similar to those in groups B and C at 50–60 keV, and similar to or lower than those in groups B and C at 65 keV and 70 keV. The subjective scores of the dual-phase images in group A were lower than those of groups B and C at 50 keV and 55 keV, whereas no significant difference was seen at 60–70 keV. Compared to groups B and C, the iodine intake in group A decreased by 12.5% and 13.3%, respectively. The effective doses in groups A and B were 24.7% and 25.8% lower than those in group C, respectively. CONCLUSION: GSI +320 mgI/ml for abdominal CT-enhanced in overweight patients satisfies image quality while reducing iodine intake and radiation dose, and the optimal keV was 60 keV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chuanxiong, the rhizome of Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort., is an ancient herbal medicine that has gained extensive popularity in alleviating migraines with satisfying therapeutic effects in China. As the major bioactive component of Chuanxiong, the essential oil also exerts a marked impact on the treatment of migraine. It is widely recognized that neuroinflammation contributes to migraine. However, it remains unknown whether Chuanxiong essential oil has anti-neuroinflammatory activity. To explore the anti-neuroinflammatory properties of Chuanxiong essential oil and its molecular mechanisms by network pharmacology analysis and in vitro experiments. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to identify the chemical components of Chuanxiong essential oil. Public databases were used to predict possible targets, build the protein–protein interaction network (PPI), and perform Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses. Moreover, cytological experiments, nitric oxide assay, enzyme-link immunosorbent assay, western blotting, and immunofluorescence assay were adopted to prove the critical signaling pathway in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced BV2 cells. Thirty-six compounds were identified from Chuanxiong essential oil by GC-MS, and their corresponding putative targets were predicted. The network pharmacology study identified 232 candidate targets of Chuanxiong essential oil in anti-neuroinflammation. Furthermore, Chuanxiong essential oil was found to potentially affect the C-type lectin receptor, FoxO, and NF-κB signaling pathways according to the KEGG analysis. Experimentally, we verified that Chuanxiong essential oil could significantly reduce the overproduction of inflammatory mediators and pro-inflammatory factors via the NF-κB signaling pathway. Chuanxiong essential oil alleviates neuroinflammation through the NF-κB signaling pathway, which provides a theoretical foundation for a better understanding of the clinical application of Chuanxiong essential oil in migraine treatment. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shear characteristics of calcareous sand, a typical deposit in the South China Sea, could significantly influence the safety and stability of marine structures. Previous studies showed that many factors, such as temperature and surface roughness, could affect the mobilized shear strength between the calcareous sand and steel surface. Therefore, studies on the shear behaviors of the steel-sand interface under various thermal conditions are necessary. In this study, a new multifunctional sediment shear system has been developed and employed to investigate the shear performance. For this purpose, steel plates with different surface roughness were tested under various normal stress values, shear displacement rates and temperatures. Shear strength and deformation were analyzed using test data to reveal the relationships between several factors and the shear strength of the steel-sand interface. Results from test demonstrate that the interfacial shear strength on rough steel interfaces will be 1.45–3.15 times higher than that on the smooth steel interface. Besides, the shear strength of the interface rises significantly with the roughness of the steel plate. The peak friction angle increases rapidly at the start and then tends to stabilize with the increase of normalized roughness. The interfacial shear strength could be enhanced in low-temperature environments but would reduce in high-temperature environments, e.g. the energy pile, particularly under low normal stress. The shear displacement rate also has a positive effect on the interface shear strength for most cases in this study. Finally, a new nonlinear function is proposed to describe the peak friction angle ratio of foundation interface to consider the effect of temperature and shear displacement rate reasonably. • A new multifunctional sediment shear system has been developed and employed to investigate the shear performance of steel and calcareous sand. • Steel plates with different surface roughness were tested under different normal stresses, shear rates and temperatures. • A new nonlinear function is proposed to describe the peak friction angle ratio of foundation interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Binder jetting (BJ) additive manufacturing (AM) technology is a competitive technology for fabricating ceramic and metal parts. In most cases, a high level of binder saturation is necessary to achieve sufficient strength for the green part. However, the oversaturated binder may lead to shape distortion and excess carbon residual of the green part. To solve the problem, a novel binder consisting of HEMA (2-Hydroxyethyl methacrylate) monomer and HDDA (1,6-Hexanediol diacrylate) monomer was proposed to improve the green strength and reduce carbon residual of parts at a low level of binder saturation. The monomer binder curing under the thermal-initiated free radical induced polymerization. This paper studies the printability, pyrolysis, and curing kinetics of the monomer binder, and investigates the effect of binder saturation on the strength and dimensional accuracy of WC-12Co green parts. The experimental results show that the monomer binder enables WC-12Co green parts to achieve a transverse rupture strength (TRS) of 0.66 MPa at a low binder saturation of 20%, and exhibits high dimensional accuracy. Additionally, the binder exhibited a high pyrolysis efficiency of 97.66%, resulting in a low residual carbon content of less than 0.3 wt% after debinding. This favorable pyrolysis characteristic does not compromise the phase composition of the WC-12Co matrix during the sintering process. This paper provides a new solution for fabricating cemented carbide parts with BJ AM technology. • This paper proposes a novel acrylate monomer binder to improve the strength and reduce carbon residual of the green part. • The monomer binder uses thermal-initiated free radical induced polymerization to improve the curing efficiency. • This paper studies the binder pyrolysis and curing properties and the effect of binder saturation on the green part. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From the security of multi-agent systems (MASs), this paper investigates false-data injection attacks that cooperatively compromise communication links to stealthily destabilize the leader-following control process. Different from centralized systems, the communication coupling of MASs enables attackers to have more complex adverse influences. In view of this, we focus on how attacks perform ripple effect by spreading their influences to the agents receiving no compromised communication data. First of all, the existence of cooperative false-data injection (CFDI) attacks is studied based on the spectral radius of system matrices. Further, we explore attack ripple effect from the relations between impaired agents and attack targets against communication links. Therefore, with the geometric and algebraic properties of edge-to-node incidence matrices, a necessary and sufficient condition of minimum attack targets is developed. On this basis, the protection targets of communication data are qualitatively analyzed to resist CFDI attacks in MASs. The numerical simulations conducted on a group of two-link planar robots illustrate the theoretical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The surface plasmon resonance effect has been previously reported as an essential mechanism for terahertz wave sensing applications. However, due to its structural geometric parameters dependence, either the reconfiguration of the arrays or the realignment of the prism system is required, which always remains one of the challenges limiting practical applications. Here, a graphene-based phase-jump inversion plasmonic sensor (GPPS) operating at a fixed gap and incident angle is established. The optimal wave vector matching between specific analytes and the GPPS can be achieved by adjusting the Fermi level of graphene. On this basis, an ultrahigh sensitivity of 0.488 THz/RIU is achieved under the optimal Fermi level. Remarkably, the comparison between the phase spectra and the reflective amplitude spectra indicates that the phase-based FoM and Q-factor are two orders of magnitude larger than those calculated by amplitude spectra, which could reach 244RIU−1 and 218.5. The unique phase-jump responses on graphene surface plasmon resonance provide new ideas for ultra-sensitivity THz sensing methods. [Display omitted] • A tunable graphene-based phase-jump inversion plasmonic sensor is designed. • No requirement on reconfiguration of geometric structure or realignment of optical components. • The phase-based spectra occupy significant better sensing performance than the amplitude spectra. • The sensitivity is 0.488 THz/RIU, the maximum and Q-factor and FoM reach 244RIU−1and 218.5. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Epoxypropyl dimethydodecyl ammonium chloride (EPDDMAC) were grafted on γ-Al 2 O 3 particles. • α-Al 2 O 3 were coated with EVOH and modified with EPDDMAC. • Using the TIPS method, the alumina particles can be completely encapsulated with less polymer. • γ-Al 2 O 3 /EPDDMAC particles and α-Al 2 O 3 @EVOH/EPDDMAC particles showed great antimicrobial performance. Antimicrobial particles can inhibit or kill microorganisms, and have been widely used as antimicrobial filler in coatings and polymers. Herein, we present a facile method to prepare antimicrobial alumina particles by grafting epoxypropyl dimethydodecyl ammonium chloride (EPDDMAC) on γ-Al 2 O 3 or ethylene–vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH) coated α-Al 2 O 3.The results show that EPDDMAC can be grafted on γ-Al 2 O 3 or EVOH-coated α-Al 2 O 3 particles effectively, and the grafting rate rises with the increased EPDDMAC amount. The grafted composite particles exhibit excellent antibacterial properties against Escherichia coli and display great potential in antibacterial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces an innovative structure for a self-restrained grid shear wall with diagonal CFRP-steel composite strips. Steel and CFRP strips are interwoven to enhance the structural integrity of the shear wall. Quasi-static tests are initially conducted on two shear wall specimens with and without diagonal CFRP-steel composite strips. Subsequently, a finite element model is established to represent the self-restrained grid shear wall with diagonal CFRP-steel composite strips. This model is helpful for exploring the influence of composite strips arrangement on the performance of shear walls. Furthermore, a prediction formula is developed to estimate the load-bearing capacity of the CFRP-steel composite strips grid shear wall. The test results show that the yield bearing capacity, ultimate bearing capacity, stiffness and energy dissipation capacity of the specimens increase by 46.6%, 58.2%, 43.6%, and 16.3% respectively after the replacement of composite strips. In addition, the results of finite element simulation indicate that the diagonal arrangement exhibits the highest efficiency in the use of CFRP materials among three reinforced structural forms-diagonal, spaced, and fully arranged composite strips. This arrangement is also the most economical and has the least adverse influence on the internal forces of the frame columns. • Completely discrete steel slit shear wall into steel plate strips. • The steel and CFRP strips are interwoven to enhance the seismic performance of the shear wall. • The effects of different composite strip arrangements are investigated. • The prediction formula of the ultimate bearing capacity of the grid shear wall with CFRP-steel composite strips has been derived. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNAemia and disease are common complications in patients undergoing allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT). Few studies have compared the efficacy and safety of the HSCT donor and third‐party CMV‐specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CMV‐CTLs) in the treatment of CMV DNAemia and disease. In this study, we retrospectively compared the efficacy and safety of HSCT donor and third‐party CMV‐CTLs in patients with refractory CMV DNAemia or disease after allo‐HSCT at our centre from January 2017 to September 2021. Fifty‐three patients who received CMV‐CTL therapy were enrolled, including 40 in the donor group and 13 in the third‐party group, and they were adults aged 18 years or older. Within 6 weeks of treatment, 26 (65.0%) and 9 (69.2%) patients achieved complete response in the donor and third‐party groups (p = 1.000). The 2‐year overall survival was 59.6% (95% CI 46.1%–77.1%) and 53.8% (32.6%–89.1%) in the donor and third‐party groups (p = 0.860). Four (10.0%) patients in the donor group and two (15.4%) patients in the third‐party group developed acute graft‐versus‐host disease within 3 months after CMV‐CTL infusions. In conclusion, our data suggest that donor and third‐party CMV‐CTLs have comparable efficacy and safety for refractory CMV DNAemia and disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: Enhancing rate performance of cellulose-derived hard carbon anodes from the view of cellulose molecular, crystalline, and aggregation structure is explored. Relationship of storage sodium and rate performance according to theoretical calculation and characterization analysis is illustrated. Cellulose intrinsic microstructure, conversion relationship between the allotropes of cellulose, and the critical influences on cellulose-derived carbon structure are discussed. Cellulose-derived carbon is regarded as one of the most promising candidates for high-performance anode materials in sodium-ion batteries; however, its poor rate performance at higher current density remains a challenge to achieve high power density sodium-ion batteries. The present review comprehensively elucidates the structural characteristics of cellulose-based materials and cellulose-derived carbon materials, explores the limitations in enhancing rate performance arising from ion diffusion and electronic transfer at the level of cellulose-derived carbon materials, and proposes corresponding strategies to improve rate performance targeted at various precursors of cellulose-based materials. This review also presents an update on recent progress in cellulose-based materials and cellulose-derived carbon materials, with particular focuses on their molecular, crystalline, and aggregation structures. Furthermore, the relationship between storage sodium and rate performance the carbon materials is elucidated through theoretical calculations and characterization analyses. Finally, future perspectives regarding challenges and opportunities in the research field of cellulose-derived carbon anodes are briefly highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transition metal‐catalyzed direct decarboxylative transformations of aromatic carboxylic acids usually require high temperatures, which limit the substrate's scope, especially for late‐stage applications. The development of the selective decarbonylative of carboxylic acid derivatives, especially the most fundamental aroyl chlorides, with stable and cheap electrophiles under mild conditions is highly desirable and meaningful, but remains challenging. Herein, a strategy of nickel‐catalyzed decarbonylative alkylation of aroyl chlorides via phosphine/nitrogen ligand relay is reported. The simple phosphine ligand is found essential for the decarbonylation step, while the nitrogen ligand promotes the cross‐electrophile coupling. Such a ligand relay system can effectively and orderly carry out the catalytic process at room temperature, utilizing easily available aroyl chlorides as an aryl electrophile for reductive alkylation. This discovery provides a new strategy for direct decarbonylative coupling, features operationally simple, mild conditions, and excellent functional group tolerance. The mild approach is applied to the late‐stage methylation of various pharmaceuticals. Extensive experiments are carried out to provide insights into the reaction pathway and support the ligand relay process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractTwo new cassane diterpenoids, sucupiranin MN (1) and sucupiranin ML (2), together with two known compounds sucutinirane C (3) and deacetylsucutinirane C (4) were isolated from the seed kernels of Caesalpinia sinensis. Their structures were elucidated by means of analysis of comprehensive spectroscopic data, especially HRESIMS and 1D/2D NMR spectroscopy. Compounds 1–4 are typical furan-type cassane derivatives with an aromatized C ring. Biological evaluation revealed that compounds 1–4 at the concentration of 10 μM could inhibit the overproduction of NO in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Few studies have been conducted to explore medication non-adherence in persons with schizophrenia (PWS) and its influencing factors in rural China. This study aimed to investigate the medication non-adherence and its influencing factors among PWS in rural China. A total of 269 PWS and their family caregivers in Xinjin district, Chengdu, China were investigated on medication adherence and related factors. Logistic regression was employed to identify the influencing factors. The results showed that 37.6% of PWS had medication non-adherence. PWS living with family caregivers had significantly lower rate of medication non-adherence (34.7%) than those not living with family caregivers (60.0%) (p < 0.01). Family caregivers' affiliate stigma of mental illness, knowledge of mental illness and self-esteem were significantly related to patients' medication non-adherence (p < 0.05). PWS' employment status, living with family caregiver, present mental status and social support were significantly related to medication adherence. This study shows medication non-adherence is severe among PWS in rural China. Both patient- and family-related factors affect patients' medication adherence seriously. Except improving patients' treatment and mental status, development of family caregiving, social support network and intervention on reducing stigma of mental illness should be crucial for enhancing PWS' medication adherence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]