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Summary: Climate change‐induced drought is a major threat to agriculture. C4 crops have a higher water use efficiency (WUE) and better adaptability to drought than C3 crops due to their smaller stomatal morphology and faster response. However, our understanding of stomatal behaviours in both C3 and C4 Poaceae crops is limited by knowledge gaps in physical traits of guard cell (GC) and subsidiary cell (SC).We employed infrared gas exchange analysis and a stomatal assay to explore the relationship between GC/SC sizes and stomatal kinetics across diverse drought conditions in two C3 (wheat and barley) and three C4 (maize, sorghum and foxtail millet) upland Poaceae crops. Through statistical analyses, we proposed a GCSC‐τ model to demonstrate how morphological differences affect stomatal kinetics in C4 Poaceae crops.Our findings reveal that morphological variations specifically correlate with stomatal kinetics in C4 Poaceae crops, but not in C3 ones. Subsequent modelling and experimental validation provide further evidence that GC/SC sizes significantly impact stomatal kinetics, which affects stomatal responses to different drought conditions and thereby WUE in C4 Poaceae crops.These findings emphasize the crucial advantage of GC/SC morphological characteristics and stomatal kinetics for the drought adaptability of C4 Poaceae crops, highlighting their potential as future climate‐resilient crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boundary dynamics are crucial for the transport of energy, mass, and momentum in geospace. The recently discovered plasmapause surface wave (PSW) plays a key role in the inner magnetosphere dynamics. However, a comprehensive investigation of spatial variations of the PSW remains absent. In this study, we elucidate the spatial characteristics of a PSW through observations from multiple spacecrafts in the magnetosphere. Following the initiation of the PSW, quasi‐periodic injections of energetic ions, rather than electrons, are suggested to serve as energy source of the PSW. Based on the distinct wave and particle signatures, we categorize the PSW into four regions: seed region, growth region, stabilization region and decay region, spanning from nightside to afternoon plasmapause. These findings advance our understanding of universal boundary dynamics and contribute to a deeper comprehension of the pivotal roles of surface waves in the energy couplings within the magnetosphere‐plasmasphere‐ionosphere system. Plain Language Summary: Much like the rhythmic beating of a drum, boundaries within the terrestrial system, which delimit distinct plasmas with varying temperatures and densities, can oscillate due to external impulses or internal instabilities, giving rise to surface waves. These surface waves travel along the boundary surface and establish standing wave structures in magnetic field lines. In the terrestrial space environment, two types of surface waves have been identified: the magnetopause surface wave and the plasmapause surface wave (PSW). These waves typically have frequencies ranging from fractions of milli Hertz to a few milli Hertz, with periods spanning from several to tens of minutes. They are believed to play a vital role in mass, energy, and momentum transport within Earth's magnetosphere. However, the exact source that excites the waves and the manner in which the waves evolve along the boundary remain elusive. In this study, we, for the first time, unveil the spatial evolutionary signatures of the PSW during a moderate geomagnetic storm accompanied by substorms, utilizing data from six magnetospheric spacecrafts positioned near the plasmapause. This research contributes to a better understanding of the physical mechanisms underlying the widespread existence of surface waves in the universe, shedding light on the processes of magnetosphere‐plasmasphere‐ionosphere energy couplings and wave‐particle interactions associated with surface waves. Key Points: Spatial characteristics of plasmapause surface wave (PSW) are elucidate with multiple‐spacecraft observations in the magnetosphereIt is suggested that quasi‐periodic injections of energetic ions rather than electrons sustain the PSW during the substormThe PSW is categorized into seed region, growth region, stabilization region, and decay region with different wave and particle properties [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, a meta‐analysis was conducted to systematically evaluate the effect of humanised care on maternal postoperative wound infections in patients who underwent caesarean section. A computerised search of Embase, Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database and Wanfang database was performed, supplemented by a manual search from database inception to September 2023, to collate randomised controlled trials (RCTs) regarding the application of humanised care during the perioperative period of caesarean section. Two researchers screened and selected studies identified according to inclusion and exclusion criteria, and the included literature was evaluated for quality, extracted information and required data. Data analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4 software. Twenty RCTs comprising 2408 patients were included. The results revealed the humanised care group had a lower incidence of postoperative wound infections (0.83% vs. 4.32%, odds ratio [OR]: 0.26, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.15–0.46, p < 0.00001) and fewer postoperative complications than the conventional care group (4.32% vs. 16.35%, OR: 0.23, 95% CI: 0.16–0.31, p < 0.00001), with lower anxiety scores (standardised mean difference [SMD]: −3.15, 95% CI: −3.90 to −2.40, p < 0.00001) and depression scores (SMD: −3.68, 95% CI: −4.49 to −2.88, p < 0.00001). The application of humanised care during the perioperative period of caesarean section can prevent postoperative wound infection, reduce postoperative complications and help alleviate maternal anxiety and depression, which is worthy of clinical promotion and application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To clarify the role of Eomesodermin (EOMES) to serve as a disease‐relevant biomarker and the intracellular molecules underlying the immunophenotype shifting of CD4+T subsets in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Methods: The derivation and validation cohorts included a total of 148 ALS patients and 101 healthy controls (HCs). Clinical data and peripheral blood were collected. T‐cell subsets and the EOMES expression were quantified using multicolor flow cytometry. Serum neurofilament light chain (NFL) was measured. In 1‐year longitudinal follow‐ups, the ALSFRS‐R scores and primary endpoint events were further recorded in the ALS patients of the validation cohort. Results: In the derivation cohort, the CD4+EOMES+T‐cell subsets were significantly increased (p < 0.001). EOMES+ subset was positively correlated with increased serum NFL levels in patients with onset longer than 12 months. In the validation cohort, the elevated CD4+EOMES+T‐cell proportions and their association with NFL levels were also identified. The longitudinal study revealed that ALS patients with higher EOMES expression were associated with higher progression rates (p =.010) and worse prognosis (p =.003). Conclusions: We demonstrated that increased CD4+EOMES+T‐cell subsets in ALS were associated with disease progression and poor prognosis. Identifying these associations may contribute to a better understanding of the immunopathological mechanism of ALS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Liver regeneration retardation post partial hepatectomy (PH) is a common clinical problem after liver transplantation. Identification of key regulators in liver regeneration post PH may be beneficial for clinically improving the prognosis of patients after liver transplantation. This study aimed to clarify the function of junctional protein‐associated with coronary artery disease (JCAD) in liver regeneration post PH and to reveal the underlying mechanisms. Methods: JCAD knockout (JCAD‐KO), liver‐specific JCAD‐KO (Jcad△Hep) mice and their control group were subjected to 70% PH. RNA sequencing was conducted to unravel the related signalling pathways. Primary hepatocytes from KO mice were treated with epidermal growth factor (EGF) to evaluate DNA replication. Fluorescent ubiquitination‐based cell cycle indicator (FUCCI) live‐imaging system was used to visualise the phases of cell cycle. Results: Both global and liver‐specific JCAD deficiency postponed liver regeneration after PH as indicated by reduced gene expression of cell cycle transition and DNA replication. Prolonged retention in G1 phase and failure to transition over the cell cycle checkpoint in JCAD‐KO cell line was indicated by a FUCCI live‐imaging system as well as pharmacologic blockage. JCAD replenishment by adenovirus reversed the impaired DNA synthesis in JCAD‐KO primary hepatocyte in exposure to EGF, which was abrogated by a Yes‐associated protein (YAP) inhibitor, verteporfin. Mechanistically, JCAD competed with large tumour suppressor 2 (LATS2) for WWC1 interaction, leading to LATS2 inhibition and thereafter YAP activation, and enhanced expression of cell cycle‐associated genes. Conclusion: JCAD deficiency led to delayed regeneration after PH as a result of blockage in cell cycle progression through the Hippo–YAP signalling pathway. These findings uncovered novel functions of JCAD and suggested a potential strategy for improving graft growth and function post liver transplantation. Key Points: JCAD deficiency leads to an impaired liver growth after PH due to cell division blockage.JCAD competes with LATS2 for WWC1 interaction, resulting in LATS2 inhibition, YAP activation and enhanced expression of cell cycle‐associated genes.Delineation of JCADHippoYAP signalling pathway would facilitate to improve prognosis of acute liver failure and graft growth in living‐donor liver transplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background and Aims: We aimed to define gender‐specific, optimal alanine aminotransferase (ALT) cut‐off values for the prediction of significant liver histological changes (SLHC) in Chinese patients with grey zone (GZ) chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and normal ALT. Methods: In a retrospective study, we included 1101 consecutive patients with GZ CHB and normal ALT assigned to training or internal validation cohorts. We included an independent cohort of 842 patients for external validation. We performed receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, smoothed curve fitting, and threshold effect analyses to determine optimal ALT cut‐off values. Area under the curve (AUC) values were calculated to assess their predictive performance. Results: A proportion of 79.3% of patients with GZ CHB and normal ALT (≤40 U/L) had SLHC. ROC curve analysis initially identified optimal ALT cut‐off values of 29 U/L (male) and 22 U/L (female). After smoothed curve fitting and threshold effect analyses, new optimal cut‐off values were 27 U/L for males and 24 U/L for females. AUCs for these values were 0.836 (male) and 0.833 (female) in the internal validation cohort, and 0.849 (male) and 0.844 (female) in the external validation cohort. The accuracy and discriminative ability of the newly defined ALT cut‐off values were greater than those of the current recommendations. Conclusion: This study established novel optimal ALT cut‐off values for more precise prediction of SLHC among Chinese patients with GZ CHB and normal ALT levels. This may help identify individuals who will benefit from timely antiviral therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Durvalumab is a check‐point inhibitor against programmed death ligand‐1 (PD‐L1), and anlotinib is a new orally administered multitarget tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI). Both agents have been approved in China. Preclinical and clinical trials have suggested that antiangiogenic therapy has the potential to alleviate immunosuppression and showed synergetic effect when combined with ICIs. However, it is unclear that whether this combination is effective when initiated as maintenance treatment in ES‐SCLC patients. Methods: This is a multicenter, randomized, phase II study. A total of 64 eligible patients who do not experience disease progression after four cycles platinum‐based chemotherapy combined with durvalumab will be randomized to durvalumab with anlotinib or durvalumab alone until disease progression, withdrawal of consent, or unacceptable toxicity. The primary endpoint is PFS (from randomization); secondary endpoint was OS and PFS (from diagnosis), objective response rate (ORR); disease control rate (DCR) and duration of response (DOR), safety and tolerability assessed by the National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) version 5.0. Discussion: We conduct a phase II study to investigate the safety and efficacy of durvalumab combined with anlotinib as maintenance treatment in ES‐SCLC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Coronary artery lesions are the most important complications of Kawasaki disease. Approximately 25–30% of untreated patients develop coronary artery disease, which can lead to long‐term cardiovascular sequelae. Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate the risk factors for coronary artery lesions in Kawasaki disease and to construct a nomogram for predicting the likelihood of developing such lesions. Methods: Data from 599 patients between January 2012 and June 2020 were reviewed retrospectively. Patients were randomly assigned to the training set (n = 450) and the validation set (n = 149). A comparison of clinical features and laboratory data was performed, followed by multivariate logistic regression analysis to identify independent risk factors and develop the nomogram. The predictive efficiency of the nomogram was evaluated using the calibration curve, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), C‐index, and decision curve analysis (DCA). Results: Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) resistance, delayed IVIG treatment, C‐reactive protein, and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio were identified as independent risk factors for the development of coronary artery lesions. The nomogram was constructed based on these four variables. The calibration curve of the nomogram showed a high degree of agreement between the predicted probability and the actual probability. The AUC of the nomogram in the training and validation set was 0.790 and 0.711, respectively. In addition, DCA revealed that the nomogram provided a significant net benefit, further supporting its clinical utility. Conclusions: The constructed nomogram demonstrates a strong and reliable performance in predicting coronary artery lesions, which enables clinicians to make timely and tailored clinical decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the role of methyl-salicylate (MeSA) as an airborne signaling molecule in triggering immunity in neighboring plants. When plants are infested by aphids, they release MeSA, which acts as a long-distance signaling molecule to induce systemic acquired resistance against aphid infestation in the infested plant as well as neighboring plants. MeSA is a volatile organic compound (VOC) that is secreted by plants in response to aphid infestation and is responsible for defense against insects and viruses. The article highlights the importance of understanding how MeSA is perceived by neighboring plants and its potential for developing pest- and pathogen-resistant crops. [Extracted from the article]

In Saturn's magnetosphere, the radially‐inward transport of magnetic fluxes is usually carried by localized flux tubes with sharply‐enhanced equatorial magnetic fields. The flux tubes also bring energetic particles inward, which are expected to drift azimuthally and produce energy‐dispersive signatures. Spacecraft observations, however, indicate the occurrence of energy‐dispersionless signatures for perpendicular‐moving particles. These unexpected features are attributed to the sharp magnetic gradient at the edge of the flux tubes, which significantly modifies the drift trajectories of perpendicular‐moving particles to enable their trapping motion within the flux tubes. The bouncing particles are less affected by the gradient, and therefore, still display energy‐dispersive signatures. It is the distinct particle behavior, together with different spacecraft traversal paths, that underlies the observational diversity. The results improve our understanding of particle dynamics in the magnetospheres of giant planets and indicate that pitch‐angle information should be considered in the extraction of flux‐tube properties from energetic particle observations. Plain Language Summary: The conservation of magnetic fluxes in Saturn's magnetosphere requires that the outward convection is compensated by a return process of magnetic fluxes, which has been observed in the form of localized flux tubes associated with sharply‐enhanced equatorial magnetic field and hot plasma population. The azimuthal drift of energetic particles within the flux tubes produces energy‐dispersive signatures, which have been utilized to estimate the age and starting position of the returning flux tubes. In this paper, we are motivated by Cassini observations of energy‐dispersionless signatures for perpendicular‐moving particles, to demonstrate that their drift paths can be significantly modified by the sharp magnetic gradient to cause their trapping within the flux tubes. The bouncing particles, on the other hand, are less affected by the gradient and, therefore, can leave the flux tubes to continue their drift around the planet. We further construct the magnetic configuration associated with the flux tubes, to illustrate the origin of the diverse observational signatures depending on particle pitch angle, spacecraft traversal path, and the trapping extent. These results have important implications for the interpretation of observational data in the injection flux tubes, and therefore improve our understanding of giant planet's magnetosphere and the associated particle dynamics. Key Points: In Saturn's injection flux tubes, charged particles often show distinct energy‐dispersive or dispersionless signals depending on pitch angleThe unexpected, energy‐dispersionless features for perpendicular‐moving particles are formed by their trapping motion within the flux tubesThe bouncing particles can hardly be trapped, and therefore, exhibit the characteristic energy dispersion and particle leaking signatures [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Immunotherapy extensively treats advanced non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Although immunotherapy is generally better tolerated than chemotherapy, it can cause multiple immune‐related adverse events (irAEs) involving multiple organs. Checkpoint inhibitor‐related pneumonitis (CIP) is a relatively uncommon irAE that, in severe cases, can be fatal. Potential risk factors for the occurrence of CIP are currently poorly understood. This study sought to develop a novel scoring system for predicting the risk of CIP based on a nomogram model. Methods: We retrospectively collected advanced NSCLC patients who received immunotherapy at our institution between January 1, 2018, and December 30, 2021. All patients who met the criteria were randomly divided into the training set and testing set (in a ratio of 7:3), and cases fulfilling the CIP diagnostic criteria were screened. The patients' baseline clinical characteristics, laboratory tests, imaging, and treatment information were extracted from the electronic medical records. The risk factors associated with the occurrence of CIP were identified based on the results of logistic regression analysis on the training set, and a nomogram prediction model was developed. The discrimination and prediction accuracy of the model was evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, the concordance index (C‐index), and the calibration curve. Decision curve analysis (DCA) was used to evaluate the clinical applicability of the model. Results: The training set comprised 526 (CIP: 42 cases), and the testing set comprised 226 (CIP: 18 cases) patients, respectively. In the training set, the final multivariate regression analysis revealed that age (p = 0.014; odds ratio [OR] = 1.056; 95% Confidence Interval [CI] =1.011–1.102), Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (p = 0.002; OR = 6.170; 95% CI = 1.943–19.590), history of prior radiotherapy (p < 0.001; OR = 4.005; 95% CI = 1.920–8.355), baseline white blood cell count (WBC) (p < 0.001; OR = 1.604; 95% CI = 1.250–2.059), and baseline absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) (p = 0.034; OR = 0.288; 95% CI = 0.091–0.909) were identified as independent risk factors for the occurrence of CIP. A prediction nomogram model was developed based on these five parameters. The area under the ROC curve and C‐index of the prediction model in the training set and testing set were 0.787 (95% CI: 0.716–0.857) and 0.874 (95% CI: 0.792–0.957), respectively. The calibration curves are in good agreement. The DCA curves indicate that the model has good clinical utility. Conclusion: We developed a nomogram model that proved to be a good assistant tool for predicting the risk of CIP in advanced NSCLC. This model has the potential power to help clinicians in making treatment decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clarifying the relationship between plant and soil characteristics under different establishment years of artificial grassland can improve the adaptive management ability of alpine grassland, which is of great significance to the sustainable development of alpine grassland ecosystems. This study used field quadrat surveys and indoor analyses to determine the plant community and soil nutrient characteristics of artificial grasslands with different establishment years and analyzed the characteristic differences and internal relations under different establishment years combined with correlation analysis and redundancy analysis. The results showed that the vegetation coverage decreased significantly (p <.05) after the establishment of 5 years, the biomass of artificial grassland decreased with the increase in establishment years and the species diversity index showed a "V‐shaped" change. With the increase in establishment years, the total nutrients of the artificial grassland increased, and the available nutrients decreased. The results of correlation analysis and redundancy analysis showed that soil nutrients in the 0–30 cm soil layer were intrinsically correlated with biomass and soil pH, soil water content and soil bulk density were significantly correlated with plant community changes during the establishment of artificial grassland. This study will help to clarify the changes in plant and soil characteristics of artificial grassland with different establishment years and provide a scientific and theoretical basis for restoring degraded alpine grassland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dynamic alterations of ctDNA associate with the therapeutic outcome in the advanced non-small cell lung cancer patients who received sintilimab plus anlotinib regime as 1st line therapy (B) Progression-free survival (PFS) enrichment for the high level of MSAF patients (MSAF-H) and low level of MSAF patients (MSAF-L). Furthermore, Kaplan-Meier curve analysis showed that the NSCLC patients with high MSAF received a median PFS of 836 days, while the patients with low MSAF received a median PFS of 322 days at BL ( I p i = .011; Figure 1C). Results suggested that the NSCLC patients with high MSAF received more PFS benefit than those with low MSAF the patients ( I p i = .029; Figure 2G). [Extracted from the article]

Rectal cancer is one of the most common lower gastrointestinal diseases worldwide. Currently, the common treatment is low anterior resection (LAR) of the rectum, which preserves the anus of the patient. However, it is easy to cause low anterior resection syndrome after surgery, which has a significant negative impact on the life of patients, and there is no unified evaluation standard for postoperative rectal function. To solve this problem, a multi‐sensor fusion rectal information acquisition system is designed in this paper, and a rectal signal processing method is proposed to theoretically evaluate the rectal function of postoperative patients. The method uses the complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise (CEEMDAN) to decompose the one‐dimensional rectal signal to solve the underdetermined ICA problem, uses the Fast independent component analysis (Fast‐ICA) to separate the pure rectal signal, uses the wavelet packet to extract features, and uses the particle swarm optimization optimizes support vector machine (PSO‐SVM) to classify and evaluate postoperative function. According to the experimental results, the rectal signal preprocessing effect is good, the evaluation prediction rate is 99.5565%, and the algorithm classification results are accurate, which provides a certain preliminary theoretical basis and reference value for the evaluation of rectal function after LAR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetic lower extremity ulcers (DLEUs) are a severe complication of diabetes mellitus (DM) and are difficult to heal. This study aimed to explore the efficacy of autologous point columnar full‐thickness skin graft taken from the ulcer wound margin combined with negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) in refractory DLEUs. This is a prospective cohort study. A total of 40 inpatients with refractory DLEUs were recruited in the Diabetes Foot Center of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region People's Hospital from October 2019 to November 2021. According to the doctors' professional suggestions and the patients' personal wishes, these enrolled patients were divided into two groups based on different topical wound management: the graft group (n = 18) and the conventional wound therapeutic (CWT) group (n = 22). The efficacy evaluations included the time to complete re‐epithelialization of the wound and healing speed within 14 days of graft treatment or after 14 days of graft treatment in the two groups. Before the treatment, the graft group had a significantly larger ulcer area than the CWT group [27.22 (15.28, 46.59) versus 10.92 (7.00, 24.93) cm2, P <.01]. However, the time to complete wound re‐epithelialization in the graft group was shorter than in the CWT group [58.22 ± 30.60 versus 86.09 ± 49.54 d, P <.05]. Meanwhile, the healing speed in graft group was markedly faster than in CWT group, whether within 14 days [0.60 (0.40, 0.92) versus 0.16 (0.07, 0.34) cm2/d, P <.01] or after 14 days of graft treatment [0.57 (0.45, 0.91) versus 0.13 (0.08, 0.27) cm2/d, P <.01]. However, the total treatment cost in the graft group was lower than in the CWT group [419.59 ± 137.20 versus 663.97 ± 497.02 $, P <.05]. The novel treatment modality of autologous full‐thickness skin graft taken from the ulcer wound margin combined with NPWT has hereby proposed for the first time, and is a safe, effective, and reliable method with a good performance‐to‐cost ratio to promote wound healing and shorten the healing time for DLEUs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed dormancy contributes greatly to successful establishment and community stability and shows large variation over a continuous status scale in mountain ecosystems. Although empirical studies have shown that seed dormancy status (SDS) is shaped by elevation and phylogenetic history in mountain ecosystems, few studies have quantified their combined effects on SDS. Here, we collected mature seeds from 51 populations of 11 Impatiens species (Balsaminaceae) along an elevational gradient in the Gaoligong Mountains of southwest China and estimated SDS using mean dormancy percentage of fresh seeds germinated at three constant temperatures (15, 20, and 25°C). We downloaded 19 bioclimatic variables from WorldClim v.2.1 for each Impatiens population and used internal transcribed spacer (ITS), atpB‐rbcL, and trnL‐F molecular sequences from the GenBank nucleotide database to construct a phylogenetic tree of the 11 species of Impatiens. Logistic regression model analysis was performed to quantify the effects of phylogeny and environment on SDS. Results identified a significant phylogenetic SDS signal in the Impatiens species. Furthermore, elevation and phylogeny accounted for 63.629% of the total variation in SDS among the Impatiens populations. The best logistic model indicated that temperature was the main factor influencing variation in SDS among the Impatiens species, and model residuals were significantly correlated with phylogeny, but not with elevation. Our results indicated that seed dormancy is phylogenetically conserved, and climate drives elevational patterns of SDS variation in mountain ecosystems. This study provides new insights into the response of seed plant diversity to climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Treatments for advanced small‐cell lung cancer (SCLC) patients who are resistant to first‐line chemotherapy are limited. Given that antiangiogenic agents and immune‐checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) can confer synergistic therapeutic benefits, combination therapy should be considered. We explored the efficacy and safety of combination therapy with anlotinib and programmed cell death protein 1 (PD‐1)/programmed cell death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) inhibitors as second‐line and subsequent therapy for advanced SCLC. Materials and Methods: We reviewed advanced SCLC patients at Shanghai Chest Hospital who had received anlotinib in combination with ICIs from November 2016 to November 2020 as second‐ and subsequent‐line treatment. Patients with advanced SCLC who had received paclitaxel monotherapy as second‐line treatment were included as the control group. Results: A total of 141 patients were included in the final analysis (40 in the combination therapy group and 101 in the paclitaxel monotherapy group). The median progression‐free survival (PFS) times for the combination therapy and paclitaxel monotherapy groups were 3.40 and 2.83 months (p = 0.022), respectively, while the median overall survival (OS) times for the combination therapy and paclitaxel monotherapy groups were 8.20 and 5.87 months (p = 0.048), respectively. Hypertension and hepatic dysfunction were the most pronounced adverse events of combination therapy and two patients changed regimens due to severe fatigue and anorexia. Conclusion: The combination of anlotinib and PD‐1/PD‐L1 blockade has promising efficacy and safety as a second‐line or subsequent therapy for SCLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Permanent magnet eddy current couplers have been widely used in large fan and pump loads to achieve the purpose of speed regulation and energy saving. In order to reduce the coupler axial volume and simplify the actuator, a novel flux adjustable axial flux permanent magnet eddy current coupler (FAAF‐PMECC) is proposed in this paper. The permanent magnet rotor is divided into three parts: the inner, middle and outer parts, where the permanent magnets are embedded in the core and the adjacent poles are magnetised in opposite directions. The middle part is the adjusting permanent magnet ring (AR), which can rotate around the shaft. The inner part and outer part are fixed permanent magnet rings (FR) that are fixed with the shaft, and the output torque can be controlled by adjusting the relative angle of AR and FR. The structure and working principle of FAAF‐PMECC are described in detail, and the output torque analytical model of the whole regulating process is established based on the magnetic equivalent circuit method. The AR regulation process is simulated by the variable reluctance model. The validation results show that the proposed structure can achieve a good speed regulation effect, and the output torque calculated by the analytical model in a certain slip speed range matches well with the output torque obtained using the 3D finite element method and experimental measurements. The sensitivity analysis of the structure parameters is also carried out. The analysis shows that the proposed coupler can achieve a wide speed range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The considerable drought tolerance of wild cereal crop progenitors has diminished during domestication in the pursuit of higher productivity. Regaining this trait in cereal crops is essential for global food security but requires novel genetic insight.Here, we assessed the molecular evidence for natural variation of drought tolerance in wild barley (Hordeum spontaneum), wild emmer wheat (Triticum dicoccoides), and Brachypodium species collected from dry and moist habitats at Evolution Canyon, Israel (ECI).We report that prevailing moist vs dry conditions have differentially shaped the stomatal and photosynthetic traits of these wild cereals in their respective habitats. We present the genomic and transcriptomic evidence accounting for differences, including co‐expression gene modules, correlated with physiological traits, and selective sweeps, driven by the xeric site conditions on the African Slope (AS) at ECI. Co‐expression gene module 'circadian rhythm' was linked to significant drought‐induced delay in flowering time in Brachypodium stacei genotypes. African Slope‐specific differentially expressed genes are important in barley drought tolerance, verified by silencing Disease‐Related Nonspecific Lipid Transfer 1 (DRN1), Nonphotochemical Quenching 4 (NPQ4), and Brassinosteroid‐Responsive Ring‐H1 (BRH1).Our results provide new genetic information for the breeding of resilient wheat and barley in a changing global climate with increasingly frequent drought events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carnivores, especially top predators, are important because they maintain the structure and function of ecosystems by top‐down control. Exploring the coexistence between carnivores belonging to different ecological guilds can provide the data needed for the development of effective conservation strategies of endangered species. We used scats and camera traps to molecularly analyze the dietary composition of four predators that inhabit the Everest region and assess their activity patterns. Dietary analysis revealed 22 food Molecular Operational Taxonomic Units (MOTUs) of 7 orders and 2 classes. Snow leopard (Panthera uncia) and wolf (Canis lupus) had high dietary overlap (Pianka's index = 0.95), as they both mainly preyed on ungulates (%PR = 61%, 50%), while lynx (Lynx lynx) and red fox (Vulpes vulpes) mainly consumed small mammals (%PR = 62%, 76%). We observed lower dietary overlaps (Pianka's index = 0.53–0.70) between predators with large body size difference (snow leopard versus lynx, snow leopard versus red fox, wolf versus lynx, wolf versus fox), and dietary difference was significant (p <.01), proving dietary partitioning. In activity pattern analysis, predators exhibited higher temporal overlaps with the more frequently consumed prey species, showing that predator activity can be regulated by prey availability. We observed no obvious temporal avoidance between snow leopard and wolf because they had high activity overlap (Δ = 0.87). Red fox had the lowest coefficients of activity overlap with snow leopard and wolf (Δ = 0.60, 0.59), suggesting that fox tends to avoid snow leopard and wolf temporally. In this study, we revealed how dietary and temporal partitioning facilitates the coexistence of carnivores in Everest. These results will help to increase the understanding of coexistence mechanism of carnivore communities, and provide the scientific foundation for the conservation of wildlife living in the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this letter, we report the correlations between giant undulations (GUs) and plasmapause (PP) configurations based on GUs' images and corresponding PP crossings of satellites between 2005 and 2019. Typically, GUs occur when the plasmasphere is eroded to form a thin and sharp PP during the storm main phase and early recovery phase. The thicknesses of the PP are usually comparable with the azimuthal wavelengths of the GUs and are smaller than the radial amplitudes of the GUs. The amplitudes and wavelengths are quasi‐proportional to the thicknesses of the PP and are inversely quasi‐proportional to the ion density gradients around the PP. The radial centers of GUs are typically aligned with the PP surfaces and their radial geocentric locations show positive correlations for different geomagnetic storms. These results would provide both physical insights and model constrains on the magnetosphere‐plasmasphere‐ionosphere energy coupling and the generation mechanisms of the GUs and plasmapause surface waves. Plain Language Summary: The magnetosphere‐plasmasphere‐ionosphere energy coupling in geospace is one of the key focuses in the space physics and space weather researches. When the energy, mass and moment in solar wind enter into the magnetosphere, the interactions between the enhanced convection electric field and the corotation electric field will change the configurations of plasmapause (PP). A recent study found that the thin and sharper PP may be conductive to excite PP surface waves, which generate giant undulations (GUs) on the equatorward boundary of the diffuse aurora, and drive outward‐propagating ultra‐low frequency waves. However, it remains unclear how the configurations of PP exactly control the characteristics of plasmapause surface waves (PSWs) including amplitudes and wavelengths during their sunward transportation. In this letter, we report the correlations between projected GUs and the PP configurations during the propagation process of PSWs based on GUs' images and the corresponding PP crossings of Defense Meteorological Satellite Program satellites between 2005 and 2019. These results would provide both physical insights and model constrains on the magnetosphere‐plasmasphere‐ionosphere energy coupling and the generation mechanisms of GUs and PSWs. Key Points: We perform the first statistical study on the correlations between giant undulations (GUs) and the plasmapause (PP) during geomagnetic stormsThe amplitudes and wavelengths of GUs are (inversely) quasi‐proportional to the thicknesses (ion density gradients) of the PPThe inner edge of the night‐side plasma sheet is also typically aligned with the PP surface during the GU‐period [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Plant height (PH) is an important trait affecting the plant architecture, seed yield, and harvest index. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying PH heterosis remain unclear. In addition, useful PH‐related genes must be urgently identified to facilitate ideal plant architecture breeding in rice (Oryza sativa L.). In the present study, to explore rice quantitative trait loci (QTLs) and heterosis‐related loci of PH in rice, we developed a high‐generation (>F15) population of 272 recombinant inbred lines (RIL) from a cross of two elite varieties, Luohui 9 (indica/xian) × RPY geng (japonica/geng), and two testcross hybrid populations derived from the crosses of RILs and two cytoplasmic male sterile lines (YTA [indica] and Z7A [japonica]). Using deep resequencing data, a high‐density genetic map containing 4758 bin markers was constructed, with a total map distance of 2356.41 cM. Finally, 31 PH‐related QTLs for different PH component lengths or tiller numbers across five seasons were identified. Two major environment‐specific PH QTLs were stably detected in Hainan (qPH‐3.1) or Hubei (qPH‐5.1), which have undergone significant functional alterations in rice with changes in geographical environment. Based on comparative genomics, gene function annotation, homolog identification, and existing literature (pioneering studies), candidate genes for multiple QTLs were fine‐mapped, and the candidate genes qPH‐3.1 and qPH‐5.1 for PH were further validated using CRISPR–Cas9 gene editing. Specifically, qPH‐3.1 was characterized as a pleiotropic gene, and the qPH‐3.1 knockout line showed reduced PH, delayed heading, a decreased seed setting rate, and increased tiller numbers. Importantly, 10 PH heterosis‐related QTLs were identified in the testcross populations, and a better‐parent heterosis locus (qBPH‐5.2) completely covered qPH‐5.1. Furthermore, the cross results of fixed‐genotype RILs verified the dominant effects of qPH‐3.1 and qPH‐5.1. Together, these findings further our understanding of the genetic mechanisms of PH and offer multiple highly reliable gene targets for breeding rice varieties with ideal architecture and high yield potential in the immediate future. Significance Statement: In the present study we constructed a high‐density genetic map containing 4758 bin markers of a high‐generation recombinant inbred line population from a cross of two elite rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties, Luohui 9 (indica/xian) × RPY geng (japonica/geng). Two major environment‐specific QTLs of plant height were discovered and experimentally validated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To examine the association between near work, screen time including TV and outdoor time with myopia in children from the Sunflower Myopia Asian Eye Epidemiology Consortium (AEEC). Methods: We analysed AEEC cross‐sectional data (12 241 children) on risk factors (near work, screen time including TV and outdoor time) and myopia of six population‐based studies (China, Hong Kong and Singapore). Cycloplegic refraction and axial length (AL) measurements were included. Risk factors were determined using questionnaires. Data were pooled from each study, and multivariable regression analysis was performed to evaluate the associations between risks factors and myopia, spherical equivalent (SE) and AL. Results: Among the included children, 52.1% were boys, 98.1% were Chinese and 69.7% lived in urban areas. Mean±standard deviation (SD) for age was 8.8 ± 2.9 years, for SE was −0.14 ± 1.8 D and for AL was 23.3 ± 1.1 mm. Myopia prevalence was 30.6%. In multivariate analysis, more reading and writing (OR = 1.17; 95% CI, 1.11–1.24), more total near work (OR = 1.05; 95% CI, 1.02–1.09) and less outdoor time (OR = 0.82, 95% CI, 0.75–0.88) were associated with myopia (p's < 0.05). These factors were similarly associated with SE and AL (p's < 0.05), except for total near work and AL (p = 0.15). Screen time including TV was not significantly associated with myopia (p = 0.49), SE (p = 0.49) or AL (p = 0.83). Conclusion: In this study, increased reading and writing and decreased outdoor time were associated with myopia. Screen time may be a surrogate factor of near work or outdoor time, but further research is needed to assess its role as an independent risk factor for myopia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we discuss the cooperative output tracking problem for networked multi‐agent systems (NMASs) with plant‐model mismatch as well as random communication constraints in the forward and feedback channels of each agent. In order to compensate actively for random communication constraints, that is, network‐induced delays and packet dropouts, an incremental networked predictive control scheme based on a state observer is proposed, which consists of a data buffer, an incremental networked predictor, and a network delay compensator. For both the plant‐model mismatch case and the plant‐model match case, the stability conditions of resulting closed‐loop NMASs are derived, respectively. Using the proposed method, the simulation results for three DC motor systems are presented to indicate that desired tracking performance can be achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At the microsite "Evolution Slope", Tabigha, Israel, wild barley (Hordeum spontaneum) populations adapted to dry Terra Rossa soil, and its derivative abutting wild barley population adapted to moist and fungi‐rich Basalt soil. However, the mechanisms underlying the edaphic adaptation remain elusive. Accordingly, whole genome bisulfite sequencing, RNA‐sequencing, and metabolome analysis are performed on ten wild barley accessions inhabiting Terra Rossa and Basalt soil. A total of 121 433 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) and 10 478 DMR‐genes are identified between the two wild barley populations. DMR‐genes in CG context (CG‐DMR‐genes) are enriched in the pathways related with the fundamental processes, and DMR‐genes in CHH context (CHH‐DMR‐genes) are mainly associated with defense response. Transcriptome and metabolome analysis reveal that the primary and secondary metabolisms are more active in Terra Rossa and Basalt wild barley populations, respectively. Multi‐omics analysis indicate that sugar metabolism facilitates the adaptation of wild barley to dry Terra Rossa soil, whereas the enhancement of phenylpropanoid/phenolamide biosynthesis is beneficial for wild barley to inhabit moist and fungi pathogen‐rich Basalt soil. The current results make a deep insight into edaphic adaptation of wild barley and provide elite genetic and epigenetic resources for developing barley with high abiotic stress tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Heat stress is a major environmental threat affecting crop growth and productivity. However, the molecular mechanisms associated with plant responses to heat stress are poorly understood.Here, we identified a heat stress‐sensitive mutant, hts1, in rice. HTS1 encodes a thylakoid membrane‐localized β‐ketoacyl carrier protein reductase (KAR) involved in de novo fatty acid biosynthesis. Phylogenetic and bioinformatic analysis showed that HTS1 probably originated from streptophyte algae and is evolutionarily conserved in land plants.Thermostable HTS1 is predominantly expressed in green tissues and strongly induced by heat stress, but is less responsive to salinity, cold and drought treatments. An amino acid substitution at A254T in HTS1 causes a significant decrease in KAR enzymatic activity and, consequently, impairs fatty acid synthesis and lipid metabolism in the hts1 mutant, especially under heat stress. Compared to the wild‐type, the hts1 mutant exhibited heat‐induced higher H2O2 accumulation, a larger Ca2+ influx to mesophyll cells, and more damage to membranes and chloroplasts. Also, disrupted heat stress signaling in the hts1 mutant depresses the transcriptional activation of HsfA2s and the downstream target genes.We suggest that HTS1 is critical for underpinning membrane stability, chloroplast integrity and stress signaling for heat tolerance in rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this letter, the statistical characteristics of the structures of giant undulations (GUs) during geomagnetic storms are studied for the first time, based on aurora images during 2005–2019. The GUs mainly occur within ∼4 h following the beginning of the storm main phase and finish in ±4 h around the storm peak. The most interesting feature is that the anti‐sunward edge of GUs is quasi‐stable (18–19 h MLT) during their lifetime. The latitudinal amplitudes of GUs (AGU) peak at 200–300 km while the azimuthal wavelengths (WGU) occupy several discrete values between 100 and 900 km. Both AGU and WGU are quasi‐proportional to the strength of the storms, and AGU is also proportional to WGU. There are some differences in the characteristics of AGU and WGU between pre‐ and post dusk sectors. These results would provide both statistical insight for mechanisms of dynamic auroral structures and data sources for validating magnetosphere‐plasmasphere‐ionosphere coupling models. Plain Language Summary: The inner part of the Earth's magnetosphere, known as the plasmasphere, is full of cold (∼1 eV) and dense plasmas that corotate with the planet. The outer boundary of the plasmasphere is called the plasmapause, which separates two types of plasmas' contents characterized by different temperatures and densities. A recent study found that the storm‐time interaction between the cold plasmasphere and the hot plasma outside the plasmapause (plasma sheet/ring current) excites plasmapause surface wave, which generates giant undulations on the equatorward boundary of the diffuse aurora, that is, the sawtooth aurora, and drives outward‐propagating ultra‐low frequency waves. However, the factors that trigger and control the generation and evolution of the sawtooth aurora remain unclear. As the first step, understanding the statistical characteristics of the sawtooth aurora during magnetic storms is important to uncover the reconfiguration and energy redistribution processed in the magnetosphere. In this letter, we use a large amount of auroral images to statistically investigate the occurrence and general characteristics of the sawtooth aurora during magnetic storms. Our results would provide both physical insights for mechanisms of dynamic auroral structures and data sources for validating magnetosphere‐plasmasphere‐ionosphere coupling models. Key Points: Giant undulations (GUs) usually occur within ∼4 h following the beginning of the storm main phase and end in ±4 h around the storm peakBoth the latitudinal amplitudes and the azimuthal wavelengths of GUs are quasi‐proportional to the strength of the stormsThe anti‐sunward edge of GUs is quasi‐stable during their lifetime, indicating storm injections might excite plasmapause surface waves at a quasi‐fixed location [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the primary epithelial tumor of the lung. The lack of clinical symptoms and specific molecular diagnostic indicators during the early stages of LUAD mean that the disease may not be detected until late stages, and the 5‐year survival rate is only approximately 15%. Long non‐coding RNA ALMS1 intronic script 1 (ALMS1‐IT1) was previously reported to be correlated with the poor prognosis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients. Here, we investigated whether ALMS1‐IT1 has prognostic potential for LUAD. Bioinformatics analyses were performed to examine the expression and prognostic value of ALMS1 and AVL9 (for which gene expression is positively correlated with ALMS1‐IT1 expression in LUAD) in LUAD based on TCGA and Oncomine databases. We report that ALMS1‐IT1 and AVL9 were both highly expressed in LUAD and correlated with poor outcomes in LUAD patients. Of note, the prognosis of LUAD patients with low expression of both ALMS1‐IT1 and AVL9 was superior to that of other patients. Furthermore, the proliferation, migration and invasion of LUAD cells were decreased in cells lacking ALMS1‐IT1, and this decrease could be almost completely reversed through overexpression of AVL9. Gene set enrichment analysis revealed that expression of genes related to the cell cycle pathway is closely related to both the high expression of ALMS1‐IT1 and AVL9 in LUAD. Finally, up‐regulation of ALMS1‐IT1 can activate the cyclin‐dependent kinase pathway, whereas absence of AVL9 can reverse this activation, as shown by western blotting. In summary, ALMS1‐IT1/AVL9 may promote the malignant progression of LUAD, at least in part by regulating the cyclin‐dependent kinase pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large‐scale electrical currents and Alfvénic waves are the two main drivers responsible for producing planetary aurorae. The relative contribution of each process is a central question in terrestrial auroral science, and poorly understood for other planets due to the relatively rare opportunity of in‐situ spacecraft measurements. Here, we present observations of Jupiter's aurorae from the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) contemporaneous with Juno magnetometer measurements in the magnetosphere. For three successive days, we found that the magnetospheric ultralow‐frequency (ULF) wave activity (with periods of 1–60 min) was correlated with auroral power. This was especially true for the Alfvénic modes. We further performed a statistical analysis based on HST visits during Juno's third and seventh orbit, which revealed a systematic correlation between ULF wave and auroral activity. Our results imply that Alfvénic wave power could be an important source in driving Jupiter's aurorae, as theoretically predicted. Plain Language Summary: Jupiter has the most powerful aurora in our solar system, reflecting the intense energy dissipation in the largest planetary magnetosphere. It is still an open question on how auroral particles are accelerated at a planet. At Earth, there are two prestigious mechanisms for auroral acceleration, which are wave‐particle interaction and electrical potential drop. Recent Juno observations have been shown direct evidence on both wave‐particle interaction and electrical potential drop in the auroral region. However, the importance of wave‐particle interaction on Jovian aurora still remains unclear. In this study, we reveal a systematic correlation between aurora and magnetospheric waves using the large campaign of Hubble Space Telescope during the NASA Juno mission. The results can significantly improve our understanding on wave‐particle interaction in driving Jovian aurora. Key Points: Contemporaneous observations reveal a direct correlation between ULF wave and auroral activities at JupiterThe correlation exists for the wave periodicity in range of 1–60 minThe Poynting flux associated with ULF waves could be sufficient to power the observed aurora [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multicolor upconversion luminescence materials show significantly applications in materials science. In this paper, the novel Yb3+‐sensitized Na3La(VO4)2 upconversion luminescence crystals are synthesized by the solid‐state reaction method. Three primary colors upconversion luminescence are successfully achieved in Na3La(VO4)2:Yb3+,Tm3+, Na3La(VO4)2:Yb3+,Er3+, and Na3La(VO4)2:Yb3+,Ho3+ crystals excited by the single 980 nm LD. Multicolor upconversion luminescence can be obtained by simply adjusting the combination ratios of these three samples. Luminescence mechanisms of the Yb3+‐sensitized system are discussed in detail. In the Na3La(VO4)2 host material, the Yb3+/Ho3+ codoped system exhibits unusual red upconversion luminescence based on the short decay time of Ho3+ ion 5I6 level, which provides the possibility of three primary color luminescence under 980 nm excitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate whether curettage with adjuvant microwave therapy was successful in the treatment of giant cell tumor of the bone (GCTB) in extremities, especially for GCTB with pathological fractures and GCTB of the distal radius. Methods: This was a retrospective study of 54 cases of GCTB of the extremities treated by curettage with adjuvant microwave therapy between 2007 and 2019. Five patients were lost to follow up and excluded from the study. A total of 33 male and 21 female patients were included in this study. Patients were aged 15–57 years (mean 29.72 ± 10.48 years). Among these patients, there were 10 cases of GCTB with pathological fractures and eight cases of GCTB of the distal radius; one of these cases was combined with a pathological fracture. Comprehensive imaging examinations (X‐rays [including lesion site and chest], CT, MRI, emission computed tomography, and pathology examination) of all patients were reviewed. The clinical staging of these patients were evaluated radiologically using the Campanacci classification system based on the extent of spread of the tumor. All patients underwent curettage with adjuvant microwave therapy. Clinical and imaging evaluations were performed in all cases to check for recurrence or metastasis. Lower limb and upper limber function were assessed using the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score (MSTS), and wrist function was assessed according to the disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) score. Data on surgical‐related complications were recorded. Results: All cases were followed up for 24–126 months (mean 60.69 ± 29.61 months). There were 24 patients with a Campanacci grade of 3 and 30 with a Campanacci grade of 2. The 52 patients were continuously disease‐free. The local recurrence rate was 3.70% (2 patients). One patient had recurrence in the proximal femur, and the other developed in soft tissue of the calf muscle. No recurrence occurred for GCTB of the distal radius. One recurrence occurred in a GCTB with pathological fractures. The intervals were 9 and 28 months, respectively. The cases of recurrence all had a Campanacci grade of 3 (8.33%). The median MSTS among the 54 patients was 27.67 ± 3.81. The mean wrist function DASH score was 8.30 ± 2.53. The mean MSTS was 28.67 ± 1.63 and 26.71 ± 5.49 for patients with GCTB of the distal radius and for those with pathological fractures, respectively. In comparing patients with and without pathological fractures, there was no significant difference in the MSTS functional score. Five patients had complications after the surgery. Conclusion: Curettage with adjuvant microwave ablation therapy provided favorable local control and satisfactory functional outcomes in the treatment of GCTB, especially for cases with pathological fractures and those with GCTB of the distal radius. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aim: We previously identified forkhead box (FOX) O4 mRNA as a predictor in gastric cancer (GC). However, the underlying mechanism has yet to be elucidated. We aimed to illustrate the mechanism by which FOXO4 regulated glycolysis under hypoxia in GC. Methods: FOXO4 protein expression was investigated by immunohistochemical staining of 252 GC and their normal adjacent tissues. We restored or silenced FOXO4 expression in GC cell lines to explore the underlying mechanisms. Results: FOXO4 was downregulated in GC. Loss of FOXO4 expression was validated in univariate and multivariate survival analysis as an independent prognostic predictor for overall survival (P < 0.05) and disease‐free survival (P<0.05). Restored FOXO4 expression significantly impaired the glycolysis rate in GC cells, while silencing FOXO4 expression enhanced glycolysis rate. FOXO4 expression was inversely associated with maximum standardized uptake value in mice models and patient samples. Mechanistically, FOXO4 bound to the glycolytic enzyme lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)A promoter and inactivated its activity in a dose‐dependent manner (P < 0.05). Finally, we determined that FOXO4 was a transcriptional target of hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF) ‐1α, which is central in response to hypoxia. Conclusions: Our data suggested that FOXO4 plays a key role in the regulation of glycolysis in GC, and disrupting the HIF‐1α‐FOXO4‐LDHA axis might be a promising therapeutic strategy for GC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uniform spindle‐like micro‐rods NaLa(WO4)2:Yb3+,Er3+ phosphors are prepared by the solvothermal method in the text. Controllable morphology of NaLa(WO4)2 crystal can be obtained by adjusting the prepared temperature, PH value, complexing agent content, and solvent ratio. Uniform NaLa(WO4)2:Yb3+,Er3+ micro‐rods of 1.8 μm in length and 0.5 μm in width are synthesized at a low temperature of 120°C. The prepared NaLa(WO4)2:Yb3+,Er3+ phosphors present green upconversion luminescence under 980 nm excitation, luminescence intensity reaches to maximum at the Yb3+ and Er3+ concentration of 6 and 2 mol%. The temperature performance of the NaLa(WO4)2:Yb3+,Er3+ phosphors are evaluated based on thermal coupling technology. Temperature dependence of the two green emissions ratio of Er3+ ion is obtained, and the sensitivity of the sample can be calculated, the maximum sensitivity of NaLa(WO4)2:Yb3+,Er3+ is up to 0.019 K−1 at the sample temperature of 564 K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intron retention (IR) is the least well‐understood alternative splicing type in animals, and its prevalence and function in physiological and pathological processes have long been underestimated. Cellular senescence contributes to individual aging and age‐related diseases and can also serve as an important cancer prevention mechanism. Dynamic IR events have been observed in senescence models and aged tissues; however, whether and how IR impacts senescence remain unclear. Through analyzing polyA+ RNA‐seq data from human replicative senescence models, we found IR was prevalent and dynamically regulated during senescence and IR changes negatively correlated with expression alteration of corresponding genes. We discovered that knocking down (KD) splicing factor U2AF1, which showed higher binding density to retained introns and decreased expression during senescence, led to senescence‐associated phenotypes and global IR changes. Intriguingly, U2AF1‐KD‐induced IR changes also negatively correlated with gene expression. Furthermore, we demonstrated that U2AF1‐mediated IR of specific gene (CPNE1 as an example) contributed to cellular senescence. Decreased expression of U2AF1, higher IR of CPNE1, and reduced expression of CPNE1 were also discovered in dermal fibroblasts with age. We discovered prevalent IR could fine‐tune gene expression and contribute to senescence‐associated phenotypes, largely extending the biological significance of IR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Antimicrobial peptides are widely present in nature, with many of the antimicrobial peptides having antimicrobial activity against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria, fungi, parasites, and even coated viruses. Internal fixation of fractures is a reliable technique. However, the fracture is difficult to heal and internal fixation is not easy to maintain after infection. This study aims to verify the antibacterial effect of cationic peptide LL‐37 on Staphylococcus aureus, explore the anti‐biofilm effects of LL‐37, and compare the effects of the cationic peptide LL‐37 and Cefalexin in treatment of postoperative infection of femoral fracture in vivo. Methods: The Staphylococcus aureus was clinically isolated from one patient with clinical infection after the fracture fixation at Wuxi 9th People's Hospital. The cationic peptide LL‐37 was synthesized by Shanghai Apeptide Co. Ltd. To compare the effects of the cationic peptide LL‐37 and Cefalexin in the treatment of postoperative infection of femoral fracture in vivo, 63 rabbits with internal fixation of femoral fractures were inoculated intravenously with clinically isolated pathogenic bacteria suspensions. Rabbits in the treatment groups were treated with peptide LL‐37 and Cefalexin after surgery. Rabbits in the control groups were treated with physiological saline after surgery. The biofilms on internal fixtures were harvested from euthanized rabbits 1 h, 12 h, 1 day, 2 days, and 7 days after injection of LL‐37, Cefalexin, or saline and calculated by colony count. The biofilms from treatment and control groups at 7 days were analyzed by fluorescence microscopy. Blood samples were collected at 1 h, 12 h, 1 day, 2 days, and 7 days following peptide LL‐37 and Cefalexin injection. Results: The results were compared statistically using Student's t‐test or two‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Cationic peptide LL‐37 showed significant inhibitory effects on clinically isolated Staphylococcus aureus (P < 0.05) compared with Cefalexin and control group at 1 day (P = 0.021), 2 days (P = 0.019), and 7 days (P = 0.025). Fluorescent images of the biofilm reveal that the numbers of cells on biofilms are far less than those in the Cefalexin and control groups at 7 days. The levels of Interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and C‐reactive protein (CRP) reached a maximum at 2 days following the operation. After the injection of LL‐37, there was an increase in the serum IL‐6, TNF‐α, and CRP contents in rabbits in both groups, however from 1 day postoperative the level of IL‐6 (P = 0.034), TNF‐α (P = 0.043), and CRP (P = 0.039) decreased significantly compared to the Cefalexin and control group. At 7 days postoperative, the level of IL‐6 (P = 0.029), TNF‐α (P = 0.033), and CRP (P = 0.027) had reverted to normal levels in LL‐37 groups. Conclusions: Cationic peptide LL‐37 may be a promising agent to control internal femoral fracture fixation infection in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To summarize our pioneering surgical practice and clinical outcome of Crowe type III‐IV developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) with a direct anterior approach total hip arthroplasty in a single teaching hospital in Southwest China. Methods: Fourteen patients (15 hips) diagnosed with Crowe type III‐IV developmental dysplasia of the hip were involved in this single‐center retrospective study between 2016 and 2018. A comprehensive surgical procedure, including preoperative planning and algorithms for leg length equalization, intraoperative stepwise soft tissue release, bone defect reconstruction, and an innovative subtrochanteric osteotomy, was described. Furthermore, advancements in intraoperative CT guidance, computer navigation, and nerve monitoring were available for specific demands. The short‐term clinical outcome was evaluated at the endpoint of follow‐up by three patient‐reported functional scales (Harris, WOMAC, and SF‐12 scores), and objective data collected at the clinic, including functional recovery (muscle strength of hip flexor and abductor, correction of the pelvic tilt, leg length discrepancy, and limp), radiographic analysis, and complication occurrence. Results: The intraoperative variables were carefully recorded. The mean operating times in Crowe type III and IV groups were 115.8 min and 156.2 min, and the median blood loss volumes were 520.5 mL and 810.2 mL, respectively. The general changes in the Harris, SF‐12, and WOMAC scores of the two groups were 46.2, 8.7 and 134.3, respectively, at a mean follow‐up of 25.4 months. Enhanced recovery of hip abductor muscle strength was identified in 85.7% of the population at the third postoperative month. The equalization of leg length and correction of the pelvic tile were observed at the sixth postoperative month, with a 36‐mm decrease in leg length discrepancy. No radiographic evidence of the loosening or migration of the components was observed. A self‐innovated subtrochanteric shortening osteotomy was performed in five patients, and they healed after 6 months. Specific complications included two cases of distal femoral cracks and one case of a periprosthetic fracture needing internal fixation. Two patients received a late iliotibial band release at the 3rd month postoperatively due to progressive genu valgum. No records of infection, dislocation, nerve palsy, bone non‐union, or revision surgery were identified. Discussion The direct anterior approach total hip arthroplasty showed potential advantages, including optimum component positioning, improved hip stability, steerable complication rate, and enhanced functional recovery with Crowe type III‐IV DDH. The short‐term outcome is comparable to that of the traditional posterolateral approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Plant K+ uptake typically consists low—affinity mechanisms mediated by Shaker K+ channels (AKT/KAT/KC) and high‐affinity mechanisms regulated by HAK/KUP/KT transporters, which are extensively studied. However, the evolutionary and genetic roles of both K+ uptake mechanisms for drought tolerance are not fully explored in crops adapted to dryland agriculture. Here, we employed evolutionary bioinformatics, biotechnological and electrophysiological approaches to determine the role of two important K+ transporters HvAKT2 and HvHAK1 in drought tolerance in barley. HvAKT2 and HvHAK1 were cloned and functionally characterized using barley stripe mosaic virus‐induced gene silencing (BSMV‐VIGS) in drought‐tolerant wild barley XZ5 and agrobacterium‐mediated gene transfer in the barley cultivar Golden Promise. The hallmarks of the K+ selective filters of AKT2 and HAK1 are both found in homologues from strepotophyte algae, and they are evolutionarily conserved in strepotophyte algae and land plants. HvAKT2 and HvHAK1 are both localized to the plasma membrane and have high selectivity to K+ and Rb+ over other tested cations. Overexpression of HvAKT2 and HvHAK1 enhanced K+ uptake and H+ homoeostasis leading to drought tolerance in these transgenic lines. Moreover, HvAKT2‐ and HvHAK1‐overexpressing lines showed distinct response of K+, H+ and Ca2+ fluxes across plasma membrane and production of nitric oxide and hydrogen peroxide in leaves as compared to the wild type and silenced lines. High‐ and low‐affinity K+ uptake mechanisms and their coordination with H+ homoeostasis play essential roles in drought adaptation of wild barley. These findings can potentially facilitate future breeding programs for resilient cereal crops in a changing global climate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It has previously been demonstrated that surgically resected small‐cell lung cancer (SCLC) patients could benefit from prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI). However, PCI in patients without lymph node involvement remains controversial. This study includes a larger sample size to evaluate the benefit of PCI therapy in this specific population. Methods: The records of surgically resected SCLC patients without lymph node involvement (N0M0) in Shanghai Chest Hospital were retrospectively reviewed. Results: Between January 2006 and May 2017, a total of 146 cases of surgically resected SCLC without lymph node involvement were included. A total of 46 patients received PCI therapy and 100 patients received no therapy. During the observation period, 12.0% (12/100) of the patients who did not receive PCI therapy developed brain metastases while 10.9% (5/46) of patients who received PCI therapy developed brain metastases. With regard to time to recurrence, no significant difference was observed among the groups (P = 0.798). Moreover, there was no significant difference in either the overall survival benefit (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.84, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.49–1.45, P = 0.532) or disease‐free survival rate (HR = 0.95, 95% CI: 0.52–1.75, P = 0.864). Conclusions: The evidence obtained does not support PCI therapy in the management of surgically resected SCLC with no lymph node involvement. Key points: Prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) remains controversial for resected small‐cell lung cancer (SCLC) without lymph node involvement. In this study, the results indicated that PCI does not reduce the risk of cerebral recurrence of resected p‐T1‐2N0M0 SCLC. This is the largest sample size study focused on PCI in resected p‐T1‐2N0M0 SCLC. Future revised versions of the guidelines should address this issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Agriculture is expanding into regions that are affected by salinity. This review considers the energetic costs of salinity tolerance in crop plants and provides a framework for a quantitative assessment of costs. Different sources of energy, and modifications of root system architecture that would maximize water vs ion uptake are addressed. Energy requirements for transport of salt (NaCl) to leaf vacuoles for osmotic adjustment could be small if there are no substantial leaks back across plasma membrane and tonoplast in root and leaf. The coupling ratio of the H+‐ATPase also is a critical component. One proposed leak, that of Na+ influx across the plasma membrane through certain aquaporin channels, might be coupled to water flow, thus conserving energy. For the tonoplast, control of two types of cation channels is required for energy efficiency. Transporters controlling the Na+ and Cl− concentrations in mitochondria and chloroplasts are largely unknown and could be a major energy cost. The complexity of the system will require a sophisticated modelling approach to identify critical transporters, apoplastic barriers and root structures. This modelling approach will inform experimentation and allow a quantitative assessment of the energy costs of NaCl tolerance to guide breeding and engineering of molecular components. See also the Commentary on this article by Sanders, 225: 1047–1048. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Active removal of Na+ from the cytosol into the vacuole plays a critical role in salinity tissue tolerance, but another, often neglected component of this trait is Na+ retention in vacuoles. This retention is based on an efficient control of Na+‐permeable slow‐ and fast‐vacuolar channels that mediate the back‐leak of Na+ into cytosol and, if not regulated tightly, could result in a futile cycle. This Tansley insight summarizes our current knowledge of regulation of tonoplast Na+‐permeable channels and discusses the energy cost of vacuolar Na+ sequestration, under different scenarios. We also report on a phylogenetic and bioinformatic analysis of the plant two‐pore channel family and the difference in its structure and regulation between halophytes and glycophytes, in the context of salinity tolerance. See also the Commentary on this article by Sanders, 225: 1047–1048. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highly variable phenotypic responses in mycorrhizal plants challenge our functional understanding of plant‐fungal mutualisms. Using non‐invasive high‐throughput phenotyping, we observed that arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi relieved phosphorus (P) limitation and enhanced growth of Brachypodium distachyon under P‐limited conditions, while photosynthetic limitation under low nitrogen (N) was exacerbated by the fungus. However, these responses were strongly dependent on host genotype: only the faster growing genotype (Bd3‐1) utilised P transferred from the fungus to achieve improved growth under P‐limited conditions. Under low N, the slower growing genotype (Bd21) had a carbon and N surplus that was linked to a less negative growth response compared with the faster growing genotype. These responses were linked to the regulation of N : P stoichiometry, couples resource allocation to growth or luxury consumption in diverse plant lineages. Our results attest strongly to a mechanism in plants by which plant genotype‐specific resource economics drive phenotypic outcomes during AM symbioses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Endocrine therapy is the preferred treatment for patients with hormone receptor ‐positive metastatic breast cancer (MBC). While visceral metastasis is a negative prognostic factor, few studies have distinguished between the prognoses of patients with metastases at different visceral sites. Patients and methods: In total, 398 patients receiving fulvestrant 500 mg at a single center over a 6‐year period were analyzed. Logistic regression models were used to identify the prognostic factors associated with progression‐free survival (PFS). Kaplan‐Meier analysis was used to compare the PFS of patients with lung and liver metastases. Results: Baseline visceral metastases were present in 233 patients, including 138 with lungw/o liver metastases (lung metastases without liver involvement), 51 with liverw/o lung metastases (liver metastases without lung involvement) and 41 with lung and liver metastases. The median PFS was 6.8 months (5.6 and 9.2 months for visceral and nonvisceral metastases, respectively, P = .028). PFS was longer in patients with lungw/o liver metastases than in those with liverw/o lung metastases or lung and liver metastases (9.6, 3.7 and 3.2 months, respectively, P < .001; liverw/o lung vs. lungw/o liver hazard ratio (HR) 1.70; lung and liver vs. lungw/o liver HR 2.85). Patients with liver metastases experienced significantly worse PFS than those without liver involvement (3.7 vs. 9.2 months, P < .001). PFS benefits were observed in patients with longer disease‐free intervals, no liver metastases, and no previous chemotherapy. Conclusion: Fulvestrant treatment benefited patients with lungw/o liver or nonvisceral metastases. When treating hormone receptor‐positive/HER2‐negative MBC patients with endocrine therapy, it is important to differentiate patients with lung metastases from those with liver metastases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To date, many efforts have been made to establish porcine embryonic stem (pES) cells without success. Extraembryonic endoderm (XEN) cells can self‐renew and differentiate into the visceral endoderm and parietal endoderm. XEN cells are derived from the primitive endoderm of the inner cell mass of blastocysts and may be an intermediate state in cell reprogramming. Materials and methods: Porcine XEN cells (pXENCs) were generated from porcine pluripotent stem cells (pPSCs) and were characterized by RNA sequencing and immunofluorescence analyses. The developmental potential of pXENCs was investigated in chimeric mouse embryos. Results: Porcine XEN cells derived from porcine pPSCs were successfully expanded in N2B27 medium supplemented with bFGF for least 30 passages. RNA sequencing and immunofluorescence analyses showed that pXENCs expressed the murine and canine XEN markers Gata6, Gata4, Sox17 and Pdgfra but not the pluripotent markers Oct4, Sox2 and TE marker Cdx2. Moreover, these cells contributed to the XEN when injected into four‐cell stage mouse embryos. Supplementation with Chir99021 and SB431542 promoted the pluripotency of the pXENCs. Conclusions: We successfully derived pXENCs and showed that supplementation with Chir99021 and SB431542 confer them with pluripotency. Our results provide a new resource for investigating the reprogramming mechanism of porcine‐induced pluripotent stem cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spectroscopic properties of Sm3+‐doped borate glass with silver aggregates were investigated, and it was found that the glass presented broad excitation and emission band covering violet‐infrared region. Furthermore, the optical gain coefficients at various wavelengths were measured via an amplified spontaneous emission technique, it was confirmed that the glass displayed flat net optical gain coefficient in almost full visible region. In addition, the fluorescent temperature quenching of the glass was examined, and it was seen that about 50% of room temperature emission intensity was kept when the sample was heated up to 325°C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigated the effects of dietary forage source (quality) and particle size on chewing activity, saliva secretion, and ruminal pH. Twelve multiparous lactating Holstein cows, four of which were ruminally cannulated, were used in a replicated 4 × 4 Latin square experimental design with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments. Cows fed wild‐rye hay diets had longer daily eating times than cows fed oaten hay diets. Treatments had no effect on ruminating time; therefore, resting time varied inversely to eating time. Neither the rate nor the amount of saliva secretion while eating, ruminating, or resting was affected by diet, resulting in similar total daily saliva secretions across treatments (231 L/day). Total volatile fatty acids (VFAs) in the ruminal fluid from animals fed oaten hay diets were higher than those from animals fed wild‐rye hay diets; further, VFAs increased with decreasing forage particle size (FPS). Consistent with elevated VFA concentrations, reducing FPS and including oaten hay in the diet decreased mean ruminal pH and increased the daily time of ruminal pH under 5.8. Results of this study suggest that forage source and particle size affect ruminal pH might be via variations in VFA production rather than increased salivary recycling of buffering substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]