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Immune memory has been expanded to group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s), but the cellular and molecular bases remain incompletely understood. Based on house dust mite (HDM)-induced mice asthma models and human samples, we applied flow cytometry, parabiosis, in vivo imaging and adoptive transplantation to confirm the persistence, migration and function of CD45+lineage–CD90.2+NK1.1–NKp46–ST2–KLRG1+IL-17RB+ memory-like ILC2s (ml-ILC2s). Regulated by CCR9/CCL25 and S1P signaling, ml-ILC2s reside in the lamina propria of small intestines (siLP) in asthma remission, and subsequently move to airway upon re-encountering antigens or alarmins. Furthermore, ml-ILC2s possess properties of longevity, potential of rapid proliferation and producing IL-13, and display transcriptional characteristics with up-regulation of Tox and Tcf-7. ml-ILC2s transplantation restore the asthmatic changes abrogated by Tox and Tcf7 knockdown. Our data identify siLP ml-ILC2s as a memory-like subset, which promotes asthma relapse. Targeting TCF-1 and TOX might be promising for preventing asthma recurrence. TCF1 and TOX have been shown to be important in T memory cell formation. Here the authors show that TCF1 and TOX contribute to the regulation and persistence of memory-like ILC2 cells in mouse asthma models and persons with asthma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted in the purpose of investigating the effect of Tai Chi on drug craving for women with drug disorders. One hundred and twelve women were recruited from a drug rehabilitation center in China, and 47 and 48 were finally analyzed in the control group and exercise group, respectively. The exercise group underwent a 3-month Tai Chi training, whereas the control group experienced no exercise intervention during the same time period. The drug craving was measured by the visual analog scale. In data analysis, repeated-measures were utilized to test the differences between the control and exercise group over the course of the experiment time. The mean of the craving score significantly dropped from pre-test (control: mean = 5.38, SD = 3.04; exercise: mean = 4.68, SD = 2.93) to post-test (control: mean = 4.03, SD = 2.73; exercise: mean = 1.91, SD = 1.90) in both groups (control group: t = 3.84, df = 46, p < 0.001; exercise group: t = 5.941, df = 47, p < 0.001), with more decrease witnessed in the exercise group. Repeated-measures analysis with a Huynh–Feldt correction showed the significant effect of time (F = 27.383, p < 0.001) as well as the study group by time interaction (F = 3.52, p = 0.024). Tai Chi can ameliorate the drug craving in women and it could be a supportive treatment for drug addiction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synergetic effect and underlying mechanism of potassium ferrate (PF) with tea saponin (TS, a biosurfactant) in producing short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) from anaerobic fermentation of waste activated sludge (WAS) were explored in this work. Experimental results showed that 0.2 g PF (g TSS)−1 (total suspended solid) combined with 0.02 g TS (g TSS)−1 could further improve SCFAs' production, and the maximum SCFAs content reached 2008.7 mg COD L−1, which is 1.2 and 4.5 times higher than those with PF and TS individually added, respectively, and 5.3 times higher than that of blank WAS on Day 12. In the model substrates experiments, the degradation rates of bovine serum albumin and dextran with combination of PF and TS were 41.3%±0.1% and 48.5%±0.06%, respectively, on Day 3, which are lower than those in blank WAS (with degradation rates of 72.3%±0.5% and 90.3%±0.3%). It was revealed that the oxidative effect of PF and the solubilization of TS caused more organic matters to be dissolved out from WAS, providing a large number of biodegradable substances for subsequent SCFAs production. While WAS pretreated with the combination of PF and TS, the relative abundances of Firmicutes increased from 6.4% (blank) to 38.6%, and that of Proteobacteria decreased from 41.8% (blank) to 21.8%. The combination of PF and TS promoted the hydrolysis process of WAS by enriching Firmicutes, and then increased acetic acid production by inhibiting Proteobacteria that consumed SCFAs. Meanwhile, at the genus level, acidogenesis bacteria (e.g., Proteiniclasticum and Petrimonas) were enriched whereas SCFAs consuming bacteria (e.g., Dokdonella) were inhibited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article, published in the journal Cell Discovery, discusses the structure of a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) called UL78, which is encoded by the human cytomegalovirus (HCMV). The authors used cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) to determine the structure of UL78 and found that it forms a homotrimeric architecture, which is different from other known GPCR structures. The study also revealed unique features of UL78 at both the intracellular and extracellular sides, suggesting that it may function through receptor oligomerization. Further research is needed to explore the physiological significance of this discovery. [Extracted from the article]

Heterotrophic nitrification and aerobic denitrification (HN-AD) bacteria are essential for aquaculture wastewater treatment to ensure product quality and environmental sustainability. Klebsiella aerogenes strain B23 was isolated from shrimp farm wastewater and identified based on phenotypic and phylogenetic characteristics. The strain demonstrated high removal efficiency and the maximum removal rates for ammonia (96.48%; 6.18 mg/L/h), nitrate (93.48%; 4.45 mg/L/h), and nitrite (90.92%; 2.38 mg/L/h). In wastewater from a shrimp farm, B23 reached a nitrate removal efficiency of 92.18% after 36 h. The expression of denitrifying genes (norV, norW, narJ, and narR) confirmed the HN-AD ability of strain B23. Single-factor experiments revealed that the optimal conditions for nitrate removal were a nitrate concentration of 5 mg/L, sucrose as a carbon source, temperature of 30 °C, pH of 7.5, rotation rate of 120 rpm, and salinity of 5‰. These findings demonstrate that strain B23 is a candidate for nitrogen removal in aquaculture wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Class B1 G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are important regulators of many physiological functions such as glucose homeostasis, which is mainly mediated by three peptide hormones, i.e., glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), glucagon (GCG), and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). They trigger a cascade of signaling events leading to the formation of an active agonist–receptor–G protein complex. However, intracellular signal transducers can also activate the receptor independent of extracellular stimuli, suggesting an intrinsic role of G proteins in this process. Here, we report cryo-electron microscopy structures of the human GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R), GCG receptor (GCGR), and GIP receptor (GIPR) in complex with Gs proteins without the presence of cognate ligands. These ligand-free complexes share a similar intracellular architecture to those bound by endogenous peptides, in which, the Gs protein alone directly opens the intracellular binding cavity and rewires the extracellular orthosteric pocket to stabilize the receptor in a state unseen before. While the peptide-binding site is partially occupied by the inward folded transmembrane helix 6 (TM6)–extracellular loop 3 (ECL3) juncture of GIPR or a segment of GCGR ECL2, the extracellular portion of GLP-1R adopts a conformation close to the active state. Our findings offer valuable insights into the distinct activation mechanisms of these three important receptors. It is possible that in the absence of a ligand, the intracellular half of transmembrane domain is mobilized with the help of Gs protein, which in turn rearranges the extracellular half to form a transitional conformation, facilitating the entry of the peptide N-terminus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) account for the largest bulk of deaths worldwide, posing a massive burden on societies and the global healthcare system. Besides, the incidence and prevalence of these diseases are on the rise, demanding imminent action to revert this trend. Cardiovascular pathogenesis harbors a variety of molecular and cellular mechanisms among which dysregulated metabolism is of significant importance and may even proceed other mechanisms. The healthy heart metabolism primarily relies on fatty acids for the ultimate production of energy through oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondria. Other metabolites such as glucose, amino acids, and ketone bodies come next. Under pathological conditions, there is a shift in metabolic pathways and the preference of metabolites, termed metabolic remodeling or reprogramming. In this review, we aim to summarize cardiovascular metabolism and remodeling in different subsets of CVD to come up with a new paradigm for understanding and treatment of these diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The percent global glomerulosclerosis is a key factor in determining the outcome of renal transfer surgery. At present, the rate is typically computed by pathologists, which is labour intensive and nonstandardized. With the development of Deep Learning (DL), DL-based segmentation models can be used to better identify and segment normal and sclerosed glomeruli. Based on this, we can better quantify percent global glomerulosclerosis to reduce the discard rate of donor kidneys. We used 51 whole slide images (WSIs) from different institutions that are publicly available on the internet. However, the number of sclerosed glomeruli is much smaller than that of normal glomeruli in different WSIs, which can reduce the effectiveness of Deep Learning. For better sclerosed glomerular identification and segmentation performance, we modified and trained a GAN (generative adversarial network)-based image inpainting model to obtain more synthetic sclerosed glomeruli. Our proposed inpainting method achieved an average SSIM (Structural Similarity) of 0.8086 and an average PSNR (Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio) of 22.8943 dB in the area of generated sclerosed glomeruli. We obtained sclerosed glomerular segmentation performance improvement by adding synthetic sclerosed glomerular images and achieved the best Dice of glomerular segmentation in different test sets based on the modified Unet model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite increasing awareness of mental health problems among older adults, limited mental health services are available to meet their needs. The proposed study aimed to evaluate the need for mental health services among older adults in Shanghai, China, and identify gaps in the existing service system to inform policy making. Based on 80 face-to-face interviews amongst several groups of older adults and community officers, doctors and government stakeholders, the study found that (a) the mental health needs of older adults living with family members mainly present as needs for social interaction, sense of belonging, and self-realization; (b) special groups, such as older adults living alone, mainly desire support to address loneliness, older adults with physical disabilities desire social respect, and those with mental disabilities seek social acceptance; and (c) community cadres and other stakeholders have paid little attention to demands related to mental well-being among older people. It is necessary to deliver mental health education to community stakeholders and the public, popularize mental health knowledge, and publicize professional psychological counseling and treatment services. Meanwhile, policy makers should allocate resources to train professional mental health services personnel to meet these growing mental health needs and increase financial support for mental health services for older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Negative interpersonal attitudes can affect people's well-being, interpersonal relationships, and cooperation. Overcoming negative interpersonal attitudes is a key subject in loving-kindness and compassion meditations (LCMs). However, the results and study design of previous research on negative interpersonal attitudes have been inconsistent. Therefore, it is necessary to summarize the effects of LCMs and explore moderators through meta-analysis. A literature search was conducted in the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, ISI Core Collection, Medline, ProQuest Dissertations & Theses, and PsycINFO databases up to April 2, 2021. Of the 281 identified empirical studies on LCMs, 25 measured negative interpersonal attitudes, and 21 were included in the meta-analysis. The results showed that the effects of LCMs on negative interpersonal attitudes in daily life were significant both for randomized controlled trials (g = -.203) and uncontrolled trials (g = -.539). The instant effects after meditation were also significant in randomized controlled experiments (g = -.187). Leave-one-out sensitivity analysis and nonsignificant subgroup analysis showed that the results were robust except for randomized controlled experiments. Although no significant moderators were identified, moderator analysis suggested that reducing bias and sending wishes to difficult targets were especially effective, and LCM subtypes might impact the results. Individual studies found that the contribution of meditation practice during interventions was weak. In sum, LCMs have the potential to reduce negative interpersonal attitudes, especially in multiweek interventions. Future studies should further explore the underlying mechanisms and consider the implications of study design features, such as the induction of negative interpersonal attitudes and the targets of LCMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is an association between drug use and psychological disorders. The correlation between drug craving and psychological symptoms has been studied during drug use and acute withdrawal. However, this correlation has not been researched during non-acute withdrawal. This study recruited 175 females who had long-term drug use history and their abstinent time was at least 30 days. Psychiatric symptoms were tested by Symptoms Checklist-90 (SCL-90) and Visual Analog Scale was utilized to present subjects' craving intensity. The craving intensity was positively associated with SCL-90 total score and its ten subscales, p < 0.01. SCL-90 total score, somatization, obsessive compulsive, interpersonal sensitivity, depression, anxiety, psychotic symptoms, and additional items were negatively linked to abstinent time, p < 0.05. Moreover, with the increasing abstinent time, the correlation between craving severity and SCL-90 and its subscales was weakening. The craving was positively associated with psychiatric symptoms in non-acute withdrawal women. This association might weaken and the severity of some psychiatric symptoms may ameliorate over time. Women who have drug use disorders would benefit from psychiatric treatment to reduce drug craving and to subsequently decrease relapse rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the accelerated operation of subway networks, the increasing number of subway transfer stations results in inefficient passenger travel. The target of this paper is to solve the research question of how to reduce transfer waiting time (TWTT) for heterogeneous passengers. The key problem is to determine the optimal concerted train timetable considering the transfer walking time (TWKT) of the passengers. On the basis of field survey data, the regression method was used to establish a TWKT prediction model for general passengers (G) and vulnerable passengers (V), including the elderly, passengers traveling with children, and those carrying large luggage. Afterward, a two-objective integer programming model was formulated to minimize the subway operating costs and TWTT for each group, in which V is given the priority weight to ensure social equity. The headway, loading capacity, and TWKT of heterogeneous passengers were set as optimization model constraints. A genetic algorithm (GA) was designed to find the optimal solution. A case study in which the Beijing Jianguomen Station was selected as the key transfer station was conducted to verify the performance of the proposed model. Key results show that the total TWTT for V and G can be reduced by 18.6% and 27.2%, respectively, with one train saved. Results of the parameter sensitivity analysis reveal the interconnection between the operating cost, heterogeneous passenger proportion, and transfer time. The proposed model can be used for improving transfer efficiency for passengers while considering the enterprise operating costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In most clinical trials, intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) has provided fewer views than the four standard views provided by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) when assessing left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) devices. This study aimed to determine if ICE guided by the CartoSound system achieve adequate high-quality views and similar clinical outcomes as TEE during LAAC. Methods: This study prospectively enrolled 202 patients who underwent LAAC using either ICE (n = 69), TEE (n = 121), or a combination of ICE and TEE (n = 12) as the procedural imaging under local anesthesia. A novel multi-angled "FLAVOR" approach was used for assessment in the ICE group. Results: ICE allowed visualization of the implanted devices in all patients at all proposed angles with long-axis views while two-dimensional (2D) TEE showed short-axis views in 1 or 2 angles in 24.2% of cases, which was more prevalent when the pulmonary ridge was covered by the occluder. In the combined ICE-TEE cohort, 2D-TEE failed to detect peri-device leak in 1 patient. The complication rates were similar between the ICE and TEE groups. Shorter fluoroscopy time, lower radiation dose and contrast usage were founded in the ICE group. At first TEE follow-up, the rate and degree of peri-device leak were similar between the ICE and TEE groups. Conclusion: A systematic ICE protocol using a CartoSound module to guide LAAC was reliable for comprehensive long-axis imaging assessment compared with 2D/3D TEE under local anesthesia with a shorter fluoroscopy time, lower radiation dose, and less use of contrast. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Peritoneal metastasis (PM) frequently occurs in patients with gastric cancer (GC) and is a major cause of mortality. Risk stratification for PM can optimize decision making in GC treatment. Methods: A total of 25 GC patients (13 with synchronous, 6 with metachronous PM and 6 PM-free) were included in this study. Quantitative proteomics by high-depth tandem mass tags labeling and whole-exome sequencing were conducted in primary GC and PM samples. Proteomic signature and prognostic model were established by machine learning algorithms in PM and PM-free GC, then validated in two external cohorts. Tumor-infiltrating immune cells in GC were analyzed by CIBERSORT. Results: Heterogeneity between paired primary and PM samples was observed at both genomic and proteomic levels. Compared to primary GC, proteome of PM samples was enriched in RNA binding and extracellular exosomes. 641 differently expressed proteins (DEPs) between primary GC of PM group and PM-free group were screened, which were enriched in extracellular exosome and cell adhesion pathways. Subsequently, a ten-protein signature was derived based on DEPs by machine learning. This signature was significantly associated with patient prognosis in internal cohort and two external proteomic datasets of diffuse and mixed type GC. Tumor-infiltrating immune cell analysis showed that the signature was associated with immune microenvironment of GC. Conclusions: We characterized proteomic features that were informative for PM progression of GC. A protein signature associated with immune microenvironment and patient outcome was derived, and it could guide risk stratification and individualized treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective tourist demand forecasting is crucial for company operations and destination management. Furthermore, tourists may plan better personalized multi-attraction itineraries based on demand forecasting to avoid travel peaks and improve the enjoyment of their vacation. This study developed a unique deep learning model called the convolution block attention module (CBAM) that is built on convolutional blocks and attention modules to estimate tourism demand precisely. Then, the passenger flow grid map was extracted from mobile phone signaling data. To forecast the subsequent period of the passenger flow grid map, the CBAM model uses the multi-channel spatial-temporal grid graph that is built by multiple successive passenger flow grid maps. Finally, the forecasted passenger flow grid map was used to derive the tourist demand for multi-attractions for the next period. The analysis of mobile phone signaling data from Beijing and Xiamen using the proposed model reveals that its mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) is 8.11%, which is lower than other benchmark deep learning models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: It is debatable whether loving-kindness and compassion meditation (LKCM) effectively reduces anxiety, and previous studies have reported inconsistent findings. This study provides a systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of LKCM on anxiety. Method: Studies that took LKCM as the main body and measured anxiety as an outcome were included. There were no exclusion criteria for sample characteristics or control groups. Results: Among 327 empirical studies published up to March 2022 on LKCM, 59 measured anxiety as an outcome. Meta-analyses showed that LKCM interventions are effective in reducing anxiety (d = -0.28, k = 19, n = 1284 for randomized controlled trials; d = -0.48, k = 26, n = 1177 for nonrandomized trials; d = -0.58, k = 6, n = 503 for laboratory experiments). The heterogeneity was high between studies. Subgroup analyses for randomized controlled trials found that studies combining loving-kindness meditation and mindfulness meditation outperformed studies adopting loving-kindness meditation alone. Moreover, studies with waitlist controls had greater effect sizes than studies with active controls. The type of anxiety, participant characteristics, protocol, or length of intervention had no statistically significant moderating effects. Individual studies supported mindfulness and self-compassion as important mechanisms, but the amount of meditation practice made a limited contribution. Conclusions: LKCM interventions can be effective in reducing anxiety. The incremental value of combining mindfulness meditation with loving-kindness meditation is encouraging. More research is needed, especially on specific populations suffering from anxiety disorders. Preregistration: PROSPERO CRD42021245515 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the unrefined instanton partition functions of various 5d gauge theories with matter beyond the fundamental representation as sums over Young diagrams. By using these explicit expressions, we verify a range of identities among the instanton partition functions predicted by Higgsing procedures of fivebrane web diagrams and representation theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the synergistic removal effect of various schemes based on demisters on boiler flue gas dust on a pilot-scale experimental bench. The results show that the dust removal efficiency is 28.43–51.30% when demisters are put into operation alone; the larger the inlet dust concentration of demisters is, the higher the dust removal efficiency will be; but it still cannot reach the 10 mg/Nm3 ultra-low emission standard. The dust removal efficiency is 93.13% when wet electro-static precipitator and demisters are put into operation simultaneously. Furthermore, the outlet dust concentration is lower than 5 mg/Nm3, and the dust removal efficiency of the demisters themselves increases to 67.28%, which has shown a significant improvement compared with operation alone. The dust removal efficiency is 70.98–78.37% when the water-washing layer and demisters are put into operation simultaneously. Moreover, the outlet dust concentration reaches the standard of 10 mg/Nm3 when the liquid–gas ratio (L/G) is more than 3.5. This research shows that when the inlet dust concentration is ≤ 35 mg/Nm3, the method of "water-washing layer + demisters" can be used as an equivalent alternative to the wet electro-static precipitator when L/G ≥ 3.5, which has reference value for reducing the construction cost of ultra-low emission reformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simultaneous and highly efficient removal of heavy metal cations and oxyanions is significant for both water and soil remediation, but it remains a major challenge due to the complexity. In this work, a novel hybrid of α-FeOOH incorporated carboxylated cellulose nanocrystal (Fe/CNC) is synthesized via a hydrothermal process, which shows improved α-FeOOH dispersion and heavy metal removal capacity. In single adsorbate system, maximum adsorption capacities toward Pb(II), Cd(II), and As(V) by Fe/CNC reach 126.06, 53.07, and 15.80 mg g−1, respectively, and the Fe leaching is much lower than that of α-FeOOH. In binary and ternary adsorption systems, simultaneous removal of Pb(II), Cd(II), and As(V) is proved, and the competition and synergy coexist among heavy metals. FTIR and XPS spectra have revealed the synergistic removal mechanism: Pb(II) and Cd(II) are mainly removed by surface complexation with oxygen-containing functional groups on C-CNC and α-FeOOH, and precipitation on the surface of α-FeOOH, while ligand exchange with Fe-OH is responsible for As(V) removal. The soil incubation experiments show that exchangeable and carbonate-bound Pb, Cd, and As are transformed into more stable forms in contaminated soil containing Fe/CNC composites. This work provides a novel composite material for remediation of heavy metal-contaminated environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been gradually recognized that mobile phones can be used as a practical and promising way to identify individual travel trajectories. Researchers have developed various approaches to detecting human mobility and trip characteristics including trip origin–destination, travel modes, trip purposes based on mobile phone data. Among these researches, trip purpose detection has drawn less attention from researchers. This paper presents our work to investigate a set of machine learning approaches to identifying the trip purposes for tourists based on mobile signaling data combined with sampling surveys and point of interest (POI) data. Five machine learning algorithms, including support vector machine, decision tree, random forest, artificial neural network, and deep stacked auto-encoded (DSAE), have been employed to infer trip purposes under multiple scenarios. Four scenarios have been designed by considering the POI information around trip end [a 500 m buffer or Thiessen polygon (the coverage of the base station theoretically)] and training dataset selection (equal probabilities selection or equal proportion selection). The accuracy of trip purpose classification with machine learning algorithms has compared under different scenarios. The highest accuracy of 93.47% for the test dataset is achieved based on DSAE model under the scenario of a trip end 500 m buffer and equal probabilities selection. The experimental results indicate that the methodology developed with machine learning algorithms based on mobile signaling data combined with sample travel survey is expected as an alternative way to traditional travel surveys for trip purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Covalent crystals such as diamonds are a class of fascinating materials that are challenging to fabricate in the form of thin films. This is because spatial kinetic control of bond formation is required to create covalently bonded crystal films. Directional crystal growth is commonly achieved by chemical vapor deposition, an approach that is hampered by technical complexity and associated high cost. Here we report on a liquid-liquid interfacial approach based on physical-organic considerations to synthesize an ultrathin covalent crystal film. By distributing reactants into separate phases using hydrophobicity, the chemical reaction is confined to an interface that orients the crystal growth. A molecular-smooth interface combined with in-plane isotropic conditions enables the synthesis of films on a centimeter size scale with a uniform thickness of 13 nm. The film exhibits considerable mechanical robustness enabling a free-standing length of 37 µm, as well as a clearly anisotropic chemical structure and crystal lattice alignment. Fabrication of 3D covalent organic framework thin films is challenging. Here the authors report on a liquid-liquid interfacial approach based on physical-organic considerations to synthesize an ultrathin covalent crystal film. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bi-directional turbines combined with rotary motors may be a feasible option for developing high power thermoacoustic generators with low cost. A general expression for the acoustic characteristics of the bi-directional turbine was proposed based on theoretical derivation, which was validated by computational fluid dynamics modeling of an impulse turbine with fixed guide vanes. The structure of the turbine was optimized primarily using steady flow with an efficiency of near 70% (the shaft power divided by the total energy consumed by the turbine). The turbine in the oscillating flow was treated in a lumped-parameter model to extract the acoustic impedance characteristics from the simulation results. The key acoustic impedance characteristic of the turbine was the resistance and inertance due to complex flow condition in the turbine, whereas the capacitance was treated as an adiabatic case because of the large-scale flow channel relative to the heat penetration depth. Correlations for the impedance were obtained from both theoretical predictions and numerical fittings. The good fit of the correlations shows that these characteristics are valid for describing the bi-directional turbine, providing the basis for optimization of the coupling between the thermoacoustic engine and the turbine using quasi-one-dimensional theory in the frequency domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grinding residual stress (GRS) has been understood to have a great impact on the strength of gear fatigue life. However, there are lack of detailed studies on the influences in terms of mechanism and magnitude. To fill this gap, this study proposed a new method based on finite element analysis (FEA) to calculate the overall meshing stress on a gear tooth surface by including both the GRS and elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) film pressure. Applying this method to a spiral bevel gear has resulted in a number of interesting results that GRS produced to reveal its mechanism of action through a full meshing cycle. The acquired understanding would be useful for development of manufacturing processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We aimed to explore if hyperglycaemia and hyperinsulinemia in the diabetes and prediabetes population were associated with increased risk of cancer occurence.Methods: Overall, 1700 participants with different glycaemic statuses were screened from the 110,660 residents of Da-Qing, China, in 1985. They were followed up to 30 years to access cancer outcomes.Results: Cancer was identified in 15.2% (259/1700) of the participants. The incidence of cancer in the normal glucose tolerance (NGT), impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and diabetes groups was 6.06, 6.77, and 7.18 per 1000 person-years, respectively (P = 0.02). In the Fine-Gray model with all cause death as competing risk, compared with the NGT controls, both IGT and diabetes groups demonstrated significantly higher risk of cancer (for the IGT group, adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 1.77, 95% CI 1.38-2.27, P < 0.0001; for the diabetes, aHR = 3.34, 95% CI 2.64-4.22, P < 0.0001). Among the IGT participants, progress to diabetes (aHR = 2.28, 95%CI 1.24-4.20, P = 0.008) and insulin-area under the curve at baseline (for 1 SD increase, aHR = 1.39, P = 0.02) were also associated with the risk of cancer after adjustment of covariables.Conclusions: Hyperglycaemia in patients with diabetes, hyperinsulinemia, and progression to diabetes in people with IGT is significantly associated with the long-term increased risk of cancer occurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The present study aimed to determine the effects of motivational interviewing (MI) on treatment outcome as measured by variations within glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and depression in cases subject to type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Methods: Two independent investigators electronically conducted a literature search by exploiting Cochrane Library, EMBASE, PubMed, Google Scholar, and ClinicalTrials.gov from inception to January 2021. Randomized controlled trials and quasi-experimental interventions were involved, in which motivational interviewing was examined to be associated with the treatment outcome in people with T1DM. We calculated standard mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using a random-effects model by RevMan V 5.4.1 software. Results: Lastly, a total of 9 studies comprising 1322 (680 vs 642) cases were covered, 3 of which involved 332 (166 vs 166) cases for depression meta-analysis. The analysis indicated a 0.11% improvement in glycemic control in populations having accepted a MI intervention in comparison with usual care participants, whereas the effect did not show statistical significance (SMD, − 0.11; 95% CI, − 0.33 to 0.11; Z = 0.97, p = 0.33, I2 = 60%). The depression scores between the intervention group and the control showed no significant difference (SMD, − 0.00; 95% CI, − 0.93 to 0.92; Z = 0.00, p = 1.00, I2 = 91%). Conclusions: The effect of motivational interviewing in reducing glucose levels and depression is suggested to be limited. But as impacted by the issues of heterogeneity and small number of included studies, caution in interpreting the present findings is advised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-dimensional (2D) materials entirely composed of pentagon motifs are of interest for their wide applications. Here, we demonstrate that in-plane polar symmetry can exist in ternary pentagonal monolayers, where the induced electric polarization is not associated with specific conditions, such as ferroelectric phase transition, strain gradient, and layer stacking, but is an intrinsic structural property coming from the orderly arranged polar bonds. Based on the high-throughput screening method and first-principles calculations, we find eight stable 2D polar transition metal compounds with a number of intriguing properties. In particular, their piezoelectric coefficients are three orders of magnitude larger than those of 2D elemental and binary pentagonal structures, and their bulk photovaltaic shift current can reach up to 300 μA V−2, superior to that of 2D conventional ferroelectric materials such as GeS. Our identified pentagonal monolayers not only expand the family of 2D pyroelectric materials, but also hold potential for energy conversions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Much of our understanding of bacterial behavior stems from studies in liquid culture. In nature, however, bacteria frequently live in densely packed spatially-structured communities. How does spatial structure affect bacterial cooperative behaviors? In this work, we examine rhamnolipid production—a cooperative and virulent behavior of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Here we show that, in striking contrast to well-mixed liquid culture, rhamnolipid gene expression in spatially-structured colonies is strongly associated with colony specific growth rate, and is impacted by perturbation with diffusible quorum signals. To interpret these findings, we construct a data-driven statistical inference model which captures a length-scale of bacterial interaction that develops over time. Finally, we find that perturbation of P. aeruginosa swarms with quorum signals preserves the cooperating genotype in competition, rather than creating opportunities for cheaters. Overall, our data demonstrate that the complex response to spatial localization is key to preserving bacterial cooperative behaviors. Bacteria often live in densely packed, spatially-structured communities; however, much of our understanding of their behavior stems from studies in liquid culture. Here, Monaco et al. show how spatial structure and quorum sensing modulate a cooperative behavior in colonies of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths with high heterogeneity. There is currently a paucity of clinically applicable molecular classification system to guide precise medicine. Methods: A total of 70 Chinese patients with GC were included in this study and whole-exome sequencing was performed. Unsupervised clustering was undertaken to identify genomic subgroups, based on mutational signature, copy number variation, neoantigen, clonality, and essential genomic alterations. Subgroups were characterized by clinicopathological factors, molecular features, and prognosis. Results: We identified 32 significantly mutated genes (SMGs), including TP53, ARID1A, PIK3CA, CDH1, and RHOA. Of these, PREX2, PIEZO1, and FSIP2 have not been previously reported in GC. Using a novel genome-based classification method that integrated multidimensional genomic features, we categorized GC into four subtypes with distinct clinical phenotypes and prognosis. Subtype 1, which was predominantly Lauren intestinal type, harbored recurrent TP53 mutation and ERBB2 amplification, high tumor mutation burden (TMB)/tumor neoantigen burden (TNB), and intratumoral heterogeneity, with a liver metastasis tendency. Subtype 2 tended to occur at an elder age, accompanying with frequent TP53 and SYNE1 mutations, high TMB/TNB, and was associated with poor prognosis. Subtype 3 and subtype 4 included patients with mainly diffuse/mixed type tumors, high frequency of peritoneal metastasis, and genomical stability, whereas subtype 4 was associated with a favorable prognosis. Conclusions: By integrating multidimensional genomic characteristics, we proposed a novel genomic classification system of GC associated with clinical phenotypes and provided a new insight to facilitate genome-guided risk stratification and disease management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During meiosis, chromosomes exhibit dramatic changes in morphology and intranuclear positioning. How these changes influence homolog pairing, alignment, and recombination remain elusive. Using Hi-C, we systematically mapped 3D genome architecture throughout all meiotic prophase substages during mouse spermatogenesis. Our data uncover two major chromosome organizational features varying along the chromosome axis during early meiotic prophase, when homolog alignment occurs. First, transcriptionally active and inactive genomic regions form alternating domains consisting of shorter and longer chromatin loops, respectively. Second, the force-transmitting LINC complex promotes the alignment of ends of different chromosomes over a range of up to 20% of chromosome length. Both features correlate with the pattern of homolog interactions and the distribution of recombination events. Collectively, our data reveal the influences of transcription and force on meiotic chromosome structure and suggest chromosome organization may provide an infrastructure for the modulation of meiotic recombination in higher eukaryotes. During meiosis, chromosomes undergo dramatic changes in morphology and intranuclear positioning. Here the authors mapped the 3D genome architecture throughout mouse spermatogenesis by Hi-C of sorted cells to reveal the contributions of transcriptional activity and mechanical force in modulating homolog alignment and recombination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption has been recognized as an early hallmark of multiple sclerosis (MS) pathology. Our previous studies have shown that 2-(2-Benzofuranyl)-2-imidazoline (2-BFI) protected against experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a classic animal model of MS. However, the potential effects of 2-BFI on BBB permeability have not yet been evaluated in the context of EAE. Herein, we aimed to investigate the effect of 2-BFI on BBB permeability in both an animal model and an in vitro BBB model using TNF-α to imitate the inflammatory damage to the BBB in MS. In the animal model, 2-BFI reduced neurological deficits and BBB permeability in EAE mice compared with saline treatment. The Western blot results indicated that 2-BFI not only alleviated the loss of the tight junction protein occludin caused by EAE but also inhibited the activation of the NR1-ERK signaling pathway. In an in vitro BBB model, 2-BFI (100 μM) alleviated the TNF-α-induced increase in permeability and reduction in expression of occludin in monolayer bEnd.3 cells. Similar protective effects were also observed after treatment with the NMDAR antagonist MK801. The Western blot results showed that the TNF-α-induced BBB breakdown and increase in NMDAR subunit 1 (NR1) levels and ERK phosphorylation could be blocked by pretreatment with 2-BFI or MK801. However, no additional effect was observed on BBB permeability or the expression of occludin and p-ERK after pretreatment with both 2-BFI and MK801. Our study indicates that 2-BFI alleviates the disruption of BBB in the context of inflammatory injury similar to that of MS by targeting NMDAR1, as well as by likely activating the subsequent ERK signaling pathway. These results provide further evidence for 2-BFI as a potential drug for the treatment of MS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alpha-fetoprotein producing gastric carcinoma (AFPGC) is a rare and aggressive subtype of gastric cancer. However, little is known about the genomic features of this disease. We perform whole-exome sequencing analysis of AFPGC, and identify 34 significantly mutated genes. Somatic copy number alterations analysis reveals several significant focal amplifications (e.g. 19q12, 17q12) and focal deletions (e.g. 1p36.11, 9p21.3), and some of these negatively affect the patient prognosis. Comparative analyses reveal that AFPGC has distinct genomic features from gastric cancer of The Cancer Genome Atlas as well as four molecular subtypes. Several frequently altered genes with potential as therapeutic targets are identified in AFPGC. Further analysis reveals that AFPGC with amplification of CCNE1 at 19q12 and/or ERBB2 at 17q12 show poorer survival and more aggressive. Subsequently, based on our established patient-derived xenograft models for AFPGC, translational research is performed and the therapeutic value of targeting CCNE1 and ERBB2 is validated. In this work, we provide an understanding of genomic characteristics of AFPGC and propose a platform to explore and validate the genome-guided personalized treatment for this disease. Alpha-fetoprotein producing gastric carcinomas (AFPGC) are rare and aggressive. Here, the authors profile AFPGC tumours using whole exome sequencing, and find amplifications in CCNE1 and ERBB2 that are associated with poor outcomes but are potential therapeutic targets, as shown in patient-derived xenografts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims/hypothesis: We aimed to determine associations of regression to normal glucose tolerance (NGT), maintaining impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) or progression to diabetes with subsequent risks of CVD and microvascular disease among Chinese adults with IGT. Methods: We conducted an observational study among 540 participants in the Da Qing Diabetes Prevention Study, a 6 year lifestyle intervention trial in people with IGT, defined by 1985 WHO criteria as fasting plasma glucose <7.8 mmol/l and 2 h post-load plasma glucose ≥7.8 and <11.1 mmol/l. At the end of the trial, the groups that had regressed to NGT, remained with IGT or progressed to diabetes were identified. Participants were then followed for 24 years after completion of the trial, during which we compared the incidence and hazard ratios for CVD and microvascular disease in each group and estimated the differences in their median time to onset from parametric Weibull distribution models. Results: At the end of the 6 year trial, 252 (46.7%) participants had developed diabetes, 114 (21.1%) had remained with IGT and 174 (32.2%) had regressed to NGT. Compared with those who developed diabetes during the trial, the median time to onset of diabetes was delayed by 14.86 years (95% CI 12.49, 17.25) in the NGT and 9.87 years (95% CI 8.12, 11.68) in the IGT groups. After completion of the trial, among those with diabetes, IGT and NGT, the 24 year cumulative incidence of CVD was 64.5%, 48.5% and 45.1%, respectively, and 36.8%, 21.7% and 16.5% for microvascular diseases. Compared with participants who had progressed to diabetes during the trial, those who regressed to NGT had a 37% (HR 0.63; 95% CI 0.47, 0.85) reduction in CVD incidence and a median delay of 7.45 years (95% CI 1.91, 12.99) in onset, and those who remained with IGT had a 34% (HR 0.66; 95% CI 0.47, 0.91) lower CVD incidence with a median delay in onset of 5.69 years (95% CI 1.0, 10.38). Participants with NGT had a 66% (HR 0.34; 95% CI 0.20, 0.56) lower incidence of microvascular diseases and a median delay in the onset of 18.66 years (95% CI 6.08, 31.24), and those remaining with IGT had a 52% (HR 0.48; 95% CI 0.29, 0.81) lower incidence with a median delay of 12.56 years (95% CI 2.49, 22.63). Conclusions/interpretation: People with IGT who reverted to NGT or remained with IGT at the end of the 6 year trial subsequently had significantly lower incidences of CVD and microvascular disease than those who had developed diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chromosomes pair and synapse with their homologous partners to segregate correctly at the first meiotic division. Association of telomeres with the LINC (Linker of Nucleoskeleton and Cytoskeleton) complex composed of SUN1 and KASH5 enables telomere-led chromosome movements and telomere bouquet formation, facilitating precise pairwise alignment of homologs. Here, we identify a direct interaction between SUN1 and Speedy A (SPDYA) and determine the crystal structure of human SUN1-SPDYA-CDK2 ternary complex. Analysis of meiosis prophase I process in SPDYA-binding-deficient SUN1 mutant mice reveals that the SUN1-SPDYA interaction is required for the telomere-LINC complex connection and the assembly of a ring-shaped telomere supramolecular architecture at the nuclear envelope, which is critical for efficient homologous pairing and synapsis. Overall, our results provide structural insights into meiotic telomere structure that is essential for meiotic prophase I progression. Telomeres attach to the nuclear envelope to facilitate homolog pairing during meiosis prophase I. Here, the authors show that SUN1 and SPDYA interact, and demonstrate that this interaction is important for telomere structure and function, and essential to mice gametogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A genome-wide association study (GWAS) reported that the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs4618210 in the PLCL2 gene is related to myocardial infarction (MI) in the Japanese population, but no study has examined the correlation of PLCL2 with ischemic stroke (IS). The present study was designed to investigate whether the genetic variation in PLCL2 is associated with large artery atherosclerotic (LAA) stroke in a Han Chinese population. Tagging SNPs (tSNPs) of the PLCL2 gene were determined by a fine-mapping strategy and were genotyped by improved multiplex ligation detection reaction (iMLDR) technology in 669 LAA stroke patients and 668 healthy controls. A logistic regression model was used to analyze the associations between genetic variation at PLCL2 and the risk of LAA stroke. Two SNPs were significantly associated with the risk of LAA stroke after adjusting for potential confounders: for rs4685423, the AA genotype and CA genotype decreased the risk of LAA stroke compared with the CC genotype (multivariate-adjusted, P = 0.001); for rs4618210, the AA genotype and GA genotype decreased the risk of LAA stroke compared with the GG genotype (multivariate-adjusted, P = 0.007). In addition, haplotype analysis indicated that compared with haplotype TTT, haplotype TAT decreased the risk of LAA stroke in block 2 (adjusted OR, 0.706; 95% CI, 0.550–0.907; P = 0.006). The analysis of SNP–SNP interactions showed that rs4685423 was the most influential contributor to LAA stroke risk. SNPs rs4685423 and rs4618210 in the PLCL2 gene may be related to the risk of LAA stroke in Han Chinese. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of experimental and theoretical studies of curing kinetics of epoxy-binder-based glass- and carbon-fiber-reinforced plastics (GFRPs and CFRPs) are presented taking into account the exothermal effects. The simulation of the temperature fields and curing degree was performed as a function of the heating rate. It was found that the exothermal effects significantly influence the curing gradients and are considerably lower than at high heating rates (5 K/min). For all the studied heating rates, the temporal values were found for which equalization of the temperature fields and curing degrees over the sample volume occurs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

White adipocytes play a key role in maintaining whole body energy homeostasis by forming white adipose tissue (WAT). The impairment of WAT formation or WAT dysfunction is clearly associated with severe metabolic disorders. Mature adipocytes are derived from differentiated preadipocytes and are pivotal in energy storage and metabolism. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a member of a family of CNC-bZIP proteins which exert their transcriptional control on genes harboring antioxidant response elements (ARE) in partnership with small musculoaponeurotic fibrosarcoma proteins. The activation of Nrf2-ARE coordinated by specific repressor Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) regulates networks of genes controlling diverse homeostatic processes involving adaptive antioxidant response and detoxification among many other adaptive responses. Interestingly, accumulating evidence indicates that Nrf2 may act as a transcription factor in regulating the formation and function of adipose tissues, including adipogenesis, lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity. In this mini-review, an overview on the distinct roles of Nrf2 in adipocytes is provided. While highlighting the regulatory role of Nrf2 in adipogenesis, recent key findings on Nrf2 in insulin signal transduction and energy metabolism of adipocytes are also summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guilt appeals have been found effective in stimulating ethical consumption behaviors in western cultures. However, studies performed in Confucian cultural contexts have found contradictory results. We aim to investigate the inconclusive results of research on guilt and ethical consumption and to explain the inconsistencies. We aim to better understand the influence of guilt on ethical consumption in a Chinese Confucian context and to explore the culturally relevant individual-level concept of interdependent self-construal as a moderator. We build our argument on the Confucian ethics of ren-yi-li where the virtue of propriety (li 礼) specifies role-based obligations depending on the proximity of one's relationship to others and may thus limit ethical behaviors that are directed to those who are relationally distant. We hypothesize a positive relationship between guilt and ethical consumption that is, however, negatively moderated by interdependent self-construal. Put another way, consumers who define themselves strongly through their relationships with close others are less likely to compensate for guilt through ethical consumption. We find the hypothesized model supported in a survey of 314 Chinese consumers. The results suggest that guilt appeals can stimulate ethical consumption in Confucian cultures. However, guilt appeals may not be enough, as the moderating effect suggests that they will be most effective when combined with an ethical consumption initiative that conforms to the Confucian li principle. As this principle implies prioritizing close over distant relationships, it follows that consumers may be more likely to respond to guilt appeals which are linked to ethical consumption initiatives whose beneficiaries they feel connected to. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amino-functionalized polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS-8NH2) were covalently bound to the surface of polydopamine-coated magnetized graphene oxide. It was then reacted with 4-formylphenylboronic acid to prepare a "cubic boronic acid"-bonded magnetic graphene oxide adsorbent. The new adsorbent exhibits better selectivity and much higher adsorption capacity for ortho-phenols over adsorbents where small boronic ligands are directly bound to the surface of the material. It is shown to enable selective and faster enrichment of the catecholamines epinephrine (EP), dopamine (DA) and isoprenaline (IP) with high selectivity over many potential interferents that can occur in urine. The analytes were then quantified by HPLC with fluorometric detection. Under optimal conditions, response is linear (R2 ≥ 0.9907), limits of detection are low (0.54–2.3 ng·mL−1), and reproducibility is acceptable (inter- and intra-day assay RSDs of≤10.9%). The method was successfully applied to the determination of endogenous EP and DA and exogenous IP in urine samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To make a business case for corporate sustainability, firms must be able to sell their sustainable products. The influence that firm engagement with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) may have on consumer adoption of sustainable products has been neglected in previous research. We address this by embedding corporate sustainability in a cosmopolitan framework that connects firms, consumers, and civil society organizations based on the understanding of responsibility for global humanity that underlies both the sustainability and cosmopolitanism concepts. We hypothesize that firms' sustainability engagement and their NGO engagement influence consumer adoption of sustainable products. Empirically, we investigate the adoption of sustainable Eco-circle products made from recycled fibers marketed by Li Ning, a China-based global sportswear brand. We apply a stepwise regression approach to test our hypotheses with paper-and-pencil survey data from 217 Chinese consumers. We find adoption to be positively associated with consumers' sustainability attitude but not with firms' sustainability engagement. For firm–NGO engagement, these relationships are reversed: Adoption is positively associated with firm–NGO engagement, but not with consumers' related attitude. Our results present a picture of the Chinese context in which there is a business case for corporate sustainability if firms' words about sustainable product strategies are supported by signals from civil society about firm deeds. The results imply that in a Chinese context, firms need to be particularly aware of the role of NGOs when hoping to be rewarded for sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to investigate premature mortality and the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in Chinese adults with diabetes diagnosed before the age of 45 years. Methods: A total of 519 participants with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) and 630 with newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus (DM) were recruited in 1986 in the Da Qing Diabetes Study. In 2009, the participants were followed up to assess mortality and CVD events. The subjects were stratified into four subgroups according to age and diabetes status: age <45 years with NGT (NGT<45y), age <45 years with DM (DM<45y), age ≥45 years with NGT (NGT≥45y), and age ≥45 years with DM (DM≥45y). The risk of death and CVD events in patients with young-onset DM and elder subjects with NGT were compared to show the extent of premature death and CVD in the DM participants. Results: During the 23-year follow-up, 26 (10.40%) participants in NGT<45y, 72 (34.12%) in DM<45y, 74 (30.58%) in NGT≥45y, and 266 (68.73%) in DM≥45y died, including 13 (5.20%), 36 (17.06%), 24 (9.92%), and 128 (33.07%) death attributed to CVD. The corresponding rates of CVD events were 56 (22.40%), 90 (42.65%), 89 (36.78), and 213 (55.04%). It also showed that the risk of all-cause death (HR 1.23, 95% CI 0.88–1.71) or CVD events (HR 1.25, 95% CI 0.93–1.69) did not differ significantly between the DM<45y and NGT≥45y groups after adjusting for sex, smoking, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol and previous history of CVD. Of note, participants in the DM<45y group had an higher risk of CVD mortality compared with that in the NGT≥45y group (HR 1.76, 95% CI 1.04–2.98), although the mean age in the former group was 12 years lesser than that in the latter group (39.01 ± 5.00 vs 51.45 ± 5.14). Conclusions: Young-onset diabetes is a risk factor for the premature death and cardiovascular disease. Early prevention and intensive treatment are warrented in patients with young-onset diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates the impact of health information technology in accessing medical resources and identifies its role in improving health equity. We used 262, 771 records from the electronic medical records and outpatient appointment systems of three clinics for logistic regression to analyze the impact of information technology on patients' access to medical care. We interviewed a few health professionals to gauge their reactions and to validate and understand our quantitative results. The proportion of inpatients affected by information technology is low, accounting for only 16.7% (N = 43, 870). The difference between rural and urban groups is statistically significant, and rural households are more susceptible to information technology. In addition, distance has a significant positive effect. We demonstrate an inverted U-shaped relationship between severity of disease and the impact of information technology. Moreover, our interview results are consistent with our quantitative results. Quantitative and interview results suggest that health information technology plays a positive role in accessing medical care for patients with rural household and those in remote areas. Meanwhile, this effect is complex for patients with different severities of illnesses. Governments and managers should vigorously promote health information technology for healthcare delivery in the future and focus their attention on patients with serious diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sinocyclocheilus tingi is a cyprinid fish species endemic to China and has been listed as endangered species in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, due to over-fishing, introduced species competition, and loss of spawning grounds. In this study, we first sequenced and characterized the complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) of S. tingi by next-generation sequencing. The complete mitogenome is 16,584 bp in length, containing 13 protein-coding genes, 2 ribosomal RNA genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, and control region. Its gene arrangement pattern was identical to that of Sinocyclocheilus fishes available in GenBank database. The overall base composition is 30.42% A, 25.34% T, 26.98% C and 17.26% G, showing AT-rich feature (55.76%). Phylogenetic analyses showed that S. tingi from Fuxian Lake was closely related to Sinocyclocheilus grahami from Dianchi Lake. This work would provide molecular information fundamental to conservation and resource restoration studies on this endangered fish species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The wreathed hornbill (Rhyticeros undulatus) has been listed in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, because of decreasing population trend. There is a lack of genomic information on this species, which can provide valuable resource for conservation biology and phylogenetic studies on hornbill birds. Here we first characterized the complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) sequence of R. undulatus by next-generation sequencing and conducted phylogenomic analysis of hornbill species with mitogenome sequences available. The complete mitogenome of R. undulatus was 17,842 bp in length and incorporated 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 2 ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, and 1 control region (D-loop). The overall nucleotide composition of this mitogenome was 30.3% A, 22.4% T, 32.6% C, and 14.7% G, with AT content of 52.7%. Phylogenomic analysis using mitogenomes of eight hornbill birds showed that R. undulatus was more closely related to Penelopides panini and two Aceros species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent theoretical studies revealed that two-dimensional (2D) antimonene has attractive characteristics, such as superior photothermal conductivity, absorption over a wide range, high mobility, and good spintronic properties. Herein, we report a reliable liquid phase exfoliation (LPE) route for the preparation of high-quality high-stability atomically thin (AT) antimonene via high ultrasonic power. The AT antimonene delivers a high specific capacity of up to 860 mA·h·g-1, with high rate capability and good cycling stability as an anode of a sodium ion battery (SIB). The good conductivity and 2D structure endow AT antimonene with more active sites for sodium storage, a facilitated pathway for electron transfer and mass transport, and the capability to reduce the volume expansion during the discharge-charge process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthracoceros coronatus (Bucerotiformes: Bucerotidae) has been listed in near threatened category in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, due to population decline. Mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) sequence is informative and very useful for systematics and conservation biology studies. In this study, we first determined and characterized the complete mitogenome of A. coronatus using next-generation sequencing platform. The complete mitogenome of A. coronatus was 17,214 bp in length, with an AT ratio of 52.8%. It contained the typical structure of 13 protein-coding genes, 2 ribosomal RNA genes, 22 transfer RNA genes and a non-coding control region or D-loop region, with an identical gene order to that of most other vertebrates. The complete mitogenome sequence of A. coronatus would not only provide additional molecular markers of choice for detecting illegal poaching and trafficking of this bird species, but also would contribute to phylogenomic study of hornbill birds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]