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Given the important role of Atmospheric River precipitation (ARP) in the global hydrological cycle, accurate representation of ARP is significant. However, general circulation models (GCMs) demonstrate bias in simulating ARP. The target of this study is to quantify the performance of ARP intensity/frequency for CMIP6 simulations, and further to improve ARP estimation of CMIP6 using Cycle‐Consistent Generative Adversarial Networks (CycleGAN) with highlighting the more accurate ARP features under the global warming background. The findings of this study are as follows: (a) although ARP intensity/frequency in reserved‐optimal CMIP6 overall reproduces the observation, it is still underestimated at the stronger Atmospheric river (AR) scales, particularly for the AR highly active mid‐latitude regions. (b) The CycleGAN‐based bias correction approach markedly diminishes the bias of the CMIP6 simulations within most of the AR scales among both global and the four AR highly active regions. Moreover, the performance of the ARP in AR highly active regions is significant improvement, which is mainly due to the reduction of the bias at the strongest scale. (c) Relative to reference period (1986–2005), ARP intensity/frequency at the strongest scale increase notably under 3°C warming level, with an average value of 373.3% in intensity and 415.9% in frequency for global and the four key regions before correction, and the value is 451.9% and 492.5% after bias correction. The results illustrate that CycleGAN can effectively improve the ARP simulations of GCMs, and an early warning implies that future strong extreme ARP should potentially surpass the current expected. Plain Language Summary: Despite the important role of Atmospheric River precipitation (ARP) in global hydrological cycle, accurately simulating global ARP remains a great challenge. Here, the content of our study consists of three main parts. Firstly, we quantify the performance of CMIP6 general circulation models (GCMs) on ARP intensity/frequency simulations and find that CMIP6 GCMs underestimates ARP at the Atmospheric river (AR) highly active regions, especially in the strongest AR intensity scale. Secondly, we utilize a deep learning method named CycleGAN to improve global ARP intensity/frequency simulations of CMIP6 GCMs. The results indicate that CycleGAN effectively corrects the ARP intensity/frequency bias within most of the AR intensity scales among both global and the AR highly active regions. Moreover, the performance of ARP in the AR highly active regions is significant improvement, which is mainly due to the reduction of the bias in the strongest scale. Finally, the trained CycleGAN model is used to evaluate ARP under global warming of 1.5, 2, and 3°. The bias correction results show that ARP in the strongest AR intensity scale surpasses the current expected, especially under 3° warming level. Key Points: CMIP6 models underestimates Atmospheric River precipitation (ARP) at the Atmospheric river (AR) highly active regions, especially in the strongest AR scaleThe CycleGAN‐based deep learning method reduces model bias notably for ARP intensity and frequency, respectivelyARP in the strongest AR scale potentially surpasses the current GCM‐based projections expected in different degrees of warming after bias correction [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate forecasting of atmospheric rivers (ARs) holds significance in preventing losses from extreme precipitation. However, traditional numerical weather prediction (NWP) models are computationally expensive and can be limited in accuracy due to inaccurate physical parameter settings. To overcome these limitations, we propose a deep learning (DL) model, called GAN‐UNet, to forecast the AR occurrence, position, and intensity in East Asia. GAN‐UNet can capture the complex nonlinear relationship between the inputs at the past moment, including the vertically integrated water vapor transport (IVT), zonal wind at 850 hPa (U850), and meridional wind at 850 hPa (V850), and the forecast output (IVT, U850, or V850), whose results are comparable to NWP models. In addition, the average model (AM) by integrating the results generated by GAN‐UNet and European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) outperforms all the NWP models selected in this study, demonstrating its potential to improve the performance of NWP through the DL method. Specifically, the 5‐day average F1 scores of the AM are 0.777 and 0.845, whose values are significantly better than those obtained by ECMWF (0.712 and 0.794) in the two key regions of East Asia; The AM 5‐day average intersection over unions are 0.706 and 0.688 while the values of ECMWF are 0.675 and 0.64; in terms of intensity forecast, GAN‐UNet and AM exhibited lower differences in most of the intensity bins, except for the final bin with IVT more than 825 kg m−1 s−1. With this thorough analysis, GAN‐UNet is shown as an effective model to forecast ARs. Plain Language Summary: This work presents a deep learning (DL) model (called GAN‐UNet) for the spatio‐temporal atmospheric rivers (ARs) forecast. Our goal is to perform long lead‐time AR event forecasts accurately and efficiently. The data from 1959 to 2022 over 40°E−180°E, 20°S−60°N are used for training, validation, and testing. The results show that the proposed GAN‐UNet can forecast the AR occurrence, position, and intensity accurately and its performance is comparable with the state‐of‐the‐art numerical weather prediction (NWP) model. In addition, the ensemble of GAN‐UNet and the NWP model outperform all the NWP models selected in this study. However, The DL model still has certain limitation. Specifically, while GAN‐UNet and the ensemble model demonstrate superior forecast capabilities for most intensity bins in AR events compared to NWP models, they are severely underestimated for the grids of the final bin. The results show that the DL model can effectively forecast AR events in East Asia, and further improve the forecast accuracy of NWP by combining it with NWP model, which holds significance in extreme precipitation forecast. Key Points: A deep learning model (GAN‐UNet) is developed for efficient and accurate atmospheric river forecastGAN‐UNet achieves comparable performance to ECMWF and NCEP on atmospheric river forecastThe outcomes obtained from the average of GAN‐UNet and NWP exhibit superior performance compared to all the individual NWP models selected in this study [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Immune‐mediated necrotizing myopathy (IMNM) is an autoimmune myopathy characterized by severe proximal weakness and muscle fiber necrosis, yet its pathogenesis remains unclear. So far, there are few bioinformatics studies on underlying pathogenic genes and infiltrating immune cell profiles of IMNM. Therefore, we aimed to characterize differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and infiltrating cells in IMNM muscle biopsy specimens, which may be useful for elucidating the pathogenesis of IMNM. Methods: Three datasets (GSE39454, GSE48280 and GSE128470) of gene expression profiling related to IMNM were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Data were normalized, and DEG analysis was performed using the limma package. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses of DEGs were performed using clusterProfiler. The CIBERSORT algorithm was performed to identify infiltrating cells. Machine learning algorithm and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were performed to find distinctive gene signatures and the underlying signaling pathways of IMNM. Results: DEG analysis identified upregulated and downregulated in IMNM muscle compared to the gene expression levels of other groups. GO and KEGG analysis showed that the pathogenesis of IMNM was notable for the under‐representation of pathways that were important in dermatomyositis and inclusion body myositis. Three immune cells (M2 macrophages, resting dendritic cells and resting natural killer cells) with differential infiltration and five key genes (NDUFAF7, POLR2J, CD99, ARF5 and SKAP2) in patients with IMNM were identified through the CIBERSORT and machine learning algorithm. The GSEA results revealed that the key genes were remarkably enriched in diverse immunological and muscle metabolism‐related pathways. Conclusions: We comprehensively explored immunological landscape of IMNM, which is indicative for the research of IMNM pathogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to explore the mechanism of mechanical properties of TiNbTaZr after non‐Ti elements are replaced by Hf from the perspective of electronic structure. Analyzing the structural characteristics of TiNbTaZr, TiHfNbZr, TiNbHfZr, and TiNbTaHf medium entropy alloys by solid solution characteristic parameters. Establishing the corresponding structural models and dealing with the first‐principles calculations. By analyzing the binding energy and formation enthalpy, it is determined that these four alloys are metastable β‐Ti alloys of disordered solid solution, and the thermodynamic stability of the structure is confirmed by phonon spectrum. The elastic constants, Poisson's ratio, and hardness of these four alloys show that the strength of Hf‐containing alloys is improved and the ductility is slightly reduced compared with TiNbTaZr. From the analysis of population and density of states, it is concluded that the reason for the above phenomenon is that Hf will cause the improvement of bonding stability and covalency of alloy materials, thus promoting the improvement of theoretical strength of alloys. TiNbHfZr exhibits excellent properties of high strength and low elastic modulus and has good ductility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Norovirus (NoV) is a leading cause of epidemic and sporadic gastroenteritis in people of all ages. Humans are the primary source of NoV and household contact is one of the risk factors for NoV transmission. However, the mechanisms underlying person‐to‐person NoV transmission are poorly understood. Here we conducted a survey to profile the frequency and characteristics of intrafamily NoV transmission. Stool samples were collected every week from three households between 2016 and 2020; the total number of samples was 1105. The detection of NoV and the genotyping were performed by reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction targeting the capsid region and direct sequencing methods. NoV was detected in 3.4% of all samples. Eight NoV genotypes were identified. The most common genotype was GII.17, followed in order by GII.6, GI.6, GII.4, GI.3, and GI.2/GI.8/GI.9. Most NoV‐positive samples were obtained from asymptomatic individuals. The highest number of NoV transmissions was found in household 3 (6 infections), followed by household 2 (2 infections), while household 1 had no NoV transmission, suggesting that asymptomatic NoV carriers play a major role in infection as NoV reservoirs in the households. Further clarification of the mode of infection will contribute to improved understanding and an appropriate prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three novel donor–acceptor–acceptor configured small molecules with benzotriazole as the central A building block are synthesized as donor materials for vacuum‐deposited small‐molecule organic solar cells (SMOSCs). The effects of different lengths of the side chains attached to the benzotriazole block on the molecular structure, electrochemical behavior, and optical properties of these donors are investigated systematically. Vacuum‐deposited SMOSCs fabricated with these small molecule donors and C70 as the acceptor exhibit power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) in the range of 6.42–7.43% under air mass 1.5 global (AM 1.5 G) 100 mW cm−2 simulated solar illumination. Furthermore, the Me‐DTDCPT‐based devices deliver a promising PCE of 14.84% under 600 lux illumination by a fluorescent lamp, demonstrating its potential in indoor photovoltaic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On the basis of the Jones matrix, independent control over the amplitude and phase of light has been demonstrated by combining several meta‐atoms into the supercell of a metasurface. However, due to the intrinsic limitation of a planar achiral structure, the maximum number of independent, complex elements in one Jones matrix is three, giving rise to up to three‐channel amplitude and phase control. In this work, more Jones matrices corresponding to different angles of incidence are proposed to add, so that the degrees of freedom in the amplitude and phase control can be further increased. The supercell of the designed metasurfaces consists of three dielectric nanoblocks with predefined rotation angles and displacements in the 2D space, which can be inversely determined with the help of the genetic algorithm. Empowered by the ability to realize four‐ or even eight‐channel amplitude and phase control, the generation of multiple structured light, including two independent perfect Poincaré beams, two double‐ring perfect Poincaré beams, two perfect Poincaré beam arrays, and four vector vortex beam arrays, is numerically demonstrated. Such novel designs are expected to benefit the development of modern optical applications, including but not limited to optical communications, quantum information, and signal encryption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Structured piezoresistive membranes are compelling building blocks for wearable bioelectronics. However, the poor structural compressibility of conventional microstructures leads to rapid saturation of detection range and low sensitivity of piezoresistive devices, limiting their commercial applications. Herein, a bioinspired MXene‐based piezoresistive device is reported, which can effectively boost the sensitivity while broadening the response range by architecting intermittent villus‐like microstructures. Benefitting from the two‐stage amplification effect of this intermittent architecture, the developed MXene‐based piezoresistive bioelectronics exhibit a high sensitivity of 461 kPa−1 and a broad pressure detection range of up to 311 kPa, which are about 20 and 5 times higher than that of the homogeneous microstructures, respectively. Cooperating with the deep‐learning algorithm, the designed bioelectronics can effectively capture complex human movements and precisely identify human motion with a high recognition accuracy of 99%. Evidently, this intermittent architecture of biomimetic strategy may pave a promising avenue to overcome the limitation of rapid saturation and low sensitivity in piezoresistive bioelectronics, and provide a general way to promote its large‐scale applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Preoperative assessment of whether a successful primary debulking surgery (PDS) can be performed in patients with advanced high‐grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC) remains a challenge. A reliable model to precisely predict resectability is highly demanded. Purpose: To investigate the value of diffusion‐weighted MRI (DW‐MRI) combined with morphological characteristics to predict the PDS outcome in advanced HGSOC patients. Study Type: Prospective. Subjects: A total of 95 consecutive patients with histopathologically confirmed advanced HGSOC (ranged from 39 to 77 years). Fields Strength/Sequence: A 3.0 T, readout‐segmented echo‐planar DWI. Assessment: The MRI morphological characteristics of the primary ovarian tumor, a peritoneal carcinomatosis index (PCI) derived from DWI (DWI‐PCI) and histogram analysis of the primary ovarian tumor and the largest peritoneal carcinomatosis were assessed by three radiologists. Three different models were developed to predict the resectability, including a clinicoradiologic model combing MRI morphological characteristic with ascites and CA125 level; DWI‐PCI alone; and a fusion model combining the clinical‐morphological information and DWI‐PCI. Statistical Tests: Multivariate logistic regression analyses, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, net reclassification index (NRI) and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) were used. A P < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Results: Sixty‐seven cases appeared as a definite mass, whereas 28 cases as an infiltrative mass. The morphological characteristics and DWI‐PCI were independent factors for predicting the resectability, with an AUC of 0.724 and 0.824, respectively. The multivariable predictive model consisted of morphological characteristics, CA‐125, and the amount of ascites, with an incremental AUC of 0.818. Combining the application of a clinicoradiologic model and DWI‐PCI showed significantly higher AUC of 0.863 than the ones of each of them implemented alone, with a positive NRI and IDI. Data Conclusions: The combination of two clinical factors, MRI morphological characteristics and DWI‐PCI provide a reliable and valuable paradigm for the noninvasive prediction of the outcome of PDS. Evidence Level: 2 Technical Efficacy: Stage 2 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a cell‐phone based polarized microscope for diagnosing malaria through hemozoin recognition over a wide field‐of‐view (FOV) accompanied with decent image performance. The system is constructed based on attachment method using a lens assembly as objective, two mobile phones and two linear polarizers. A ~0.92 μm resolution across a FOV of ~3.27 mm × 3.27 mm with high imaging quality is realized, demonstrating an increased resolving power, four times improvement in FOV and better imaging quality over mobile‐optical‐polarization imaging device. Importantly, we also demonstrate it has capability of recognizing hemozoin within the sample for malaria diagnosis by imaging malaria‐infected blood samples with similar sensitivity comparable to Leica microscopy. It is more compact, portable, and insensitive to alignment, making it highly suitable for malaria detection in a portable, easy to setup and use way in low‐resource areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rotavirus A (RVA) is a major viral cause of acute gastroenteritis (AGE) worldwide. G12 RVA strains have emerged globally since 2007. There has been no report of the whole genome sequences of G12 RVAs in Indonesia. We performed the complete genome analysis by the next‐generation sequencing of five G12 strains from hospitalized children with AGE in Surabaya from 2017 to 2018. All five G12 strains were Wa‐like strains (G12‐P[8]‐I1‐R1‐C1‐M1‐A1‐N1‐T1‐E1‐H1) and were clustered into lineage‐III of VP7 gene phylogenetic tree. STM430 sample was observed as a mixed‐infection between G12 and G1 strains: G12/G1‐P[8]‐I1‐R1‐C1‐M1‐A1‐N1‐T1‐E1‐H1. A phylogenetic tree analysis revealed that all five Indonesian G12 strains (SOEP379, STM371, STM413, STM430, and STM433) were genetically close to each other in all 11 genome segments with 98.0%–100% nucleotide identities, except VP3 and NSP4 of STM430, suggesting that these strains have originated from a similar ancestral G12 RVA. The VP3 and NSP4 genome segments of STM430‐G12P[8] were separated phylogenetically from those of the other four G12 strains, probably due to intra‐genotype reassortment between the G12 and G1 Wa‐like strains. The change from G12P[6] lineage‐II in 2007 to G12P[8] lineage‐III 2017–2018 suggests the evolution and diversity of G12 RVAs in Indonesia over the past approximately 10 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, mode conversion and wavefront shaping by integrating a metallic metasurface on top of a planar waveguide are proposed and demonstrated. The metasurface consists of C‐shaped nanoantennas. By controlling the orientation of each nanoantenna, mode conversion and focusing effect for the cross‐polarized electric fields inside the waveguide are achieved. The design and simulation results of 16 scenarios of wideband transverse‐magnetic to transverse‐electric mode converters with the mode purity up to 98%, and on‐chip lenses at the wavelength of 1550 nm are reported. It is worth noting that the dimension of the devices along the propagation direction is only 9.6 µm. This work manifests the potential application of mode division multiplexing systems and on‐chip optical interconnections based on metasurfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effect of binary Typhoons Infa and Cempaka on the "21.7" heavy rainfall event over Henan Province in China is investigated based on numerical simulations. According to the rain gauge data, the temporal‐spatial distribution of precipitation in the targeted area and the large‐scale circulation in the control run show reasonable agreement with the observations. By separately excluding the relative circulation of Typhoon Infa (N_Infa) and Cempaka (N_Cempaka) at initialization, less convergence of water vapor flux within the targeted area is obtained, leading to a reduction in accumulated precipitation and rainfall intensity, especially for the mid‐to‐late raining period. Plenty of moisture mainly comes from the south and east of the rainfall region. In terms of the 60‐hr back trajectories, an overwhelming proportion of moist air parcels entering the targeted area at 850 hPa is transported along the easterly flow, which prevails between Typhoon Infa and the subtropical high. A growing proportion of air parcels advected from the south band highlights the nonnegligible effect of Typhoon Cempaka and the southwesterly flow to water vapor supply at relatively higher levels. Additional test by excluding both typhoons at initialization (N_Infa&Cempaka) suggests the complicated interaction between binary typhoons and the surrounding large‐scale circulation (such as subtropical high) may influence the initiation and development of mesoscale convection in the targeted area. With the enhancement of convergence by southwesterly and easterly flow at the lower layer from N_Infa&Cempaka, larger accumulated precipitation is obtained with the shifted location of extreme rainfall compared to that from N_Infa. Key Points: The effect of binary typhoons on the moisture transportation to "21.7" heavy rainfall is pronounced during the second rainy stageMoist air parcels at 850 hPa in the targeted area are majorly correlated with Typhoon Infa while a growing proportion of those at 700 hPa come from Typhoon CempakaThe interaction between binary typhoons and their relationship with the large‐scale circulation jointly determine the rainfall event [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liquid biopsy is a novel strategy for tumour diagnosis. The contents of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) exosomes could reflect glioma status, hence sampling exosomes from CSF is a means of liquid biopsy for glioma. However, few studies have focused on the function of microRNAs in CSF exosomes. In this study, we found that miR‐3184‐3p was enriched in CSF exosomes in glioma patients and was downregulated after tumour resection. We found that miR‐3184 facilitates glioma progression in two ways. On the one hand, miR‐3184 directly promotes proliferation, migration, and invasion while inhibiting apoptosis in glioma. On the other hand, miR‐3184 in glioma‐derived exosomes polarizes macrophages to an M2‐like phenotype, which further aggravates tumour progression. Overall, the current findings uncovered a new mechanism and highlighted the significant role of miR‐3184 in glioma progression. Furthermore, exosomal miR‐3184 could be a considerable factor with potential applications in glioma diagnosis and treatment in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Formamide as the safe cyano source! A Ni‐catalyzed cyanation of unactivated allylic alcohols and formamide to provide various α,β‐unsaturated nitriles was developed by generating the cyano unit in situ from safe and readily available formamide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glioblastoma (GBM) is one of the most fatal central nervous system tumors and lacks effective or sufficient therapies. Ferroptosis is a newly discovered method of programmed cell death and opens a new direction for GBM treatment. However, poor blood–brain barrier (BBB) penetration, reduced tumor targeting ability, and potential compensatory mechanisms hinder the effectiveness of ferroptosis agents during GBM treatment. Here, a novel composite therapeutic platform combining the magnetic targeting features and drug delivery properties of magnetic nanoparticles with the BBB penetration abilities and siRNA encapsulation properties of engineered exosomes for GBM therapy is presented. This platform can be enriched in the brain under local magnetic localization and angiopep‐2 peptide‐modified engineered exosomes can trigger transcytosis, allowing the particles to cross the BBB and target GBM cells by recognizing the LRP‐1 receptor. Synergistic ferroptosis therapy of GBM is achieved by the combined triple actions of the disintegration of dihydroorotate dehydrogenase and the glutathione peroxidase 4 ferroptosis defense axis with Fe3O4 nanoparticle‐mediated Fe2+ release. Thus, the present findings show that this system can serve as a promising platform for the treatment of glioblastoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alterations in brain connectivity have been implicated in internet gaming disorder (IGD). However, little is known about alterations in whole-brain connectivity and their associations with long-term treatment outcomes. Here, we used a relatively new analytic approach, intrinsic connectivity distribution (ICD) analysis, to examine brain connectivity in 74 IGD participants and 41 matched healthy controls (HCs) and conducted post hoc seed-based resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) analyses based on the ICD findings. We also examined how these findings related to outcomes involving a craving behavioral intervention (CBI) for IGD. IGD participants showed less whole-brain connectivity in the left angular gyrus and ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) compared with HC participants. Seed-based rsFC analyses revealed that the left angular gyrus in the IGD group showed less connectivity with areas involved in the default-mode network and greater connectivity with areas in the salience and executive control networks. CBI was associated with improved connectivity within regions in the default-mode network and regions across the default-mode and salience networks. ICD-identified connectivity differences in the left angular gyrus and vmPFC were related to changes in craving and severity of addiction 6 months after the intervention. The findings suggest that IGD is associated with alterations in brain connectivity that may be sensitive to interventions. Thus, the findings have implications for understanding mechanisms underlying CBI effects and for further treatment development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Fe‐doped LiVPO4F/C cathode material was synthesized by a one‐step solid‐state reaction method. The effects of Fe doping content on the structure and electrochemical performance of LiVPO4F/C were investigated. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analyses demonstrated that the appropriate addition of Fe3+ did not destroy the lattice structure of LiVPO4F/C. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that the surface of LiVPO4F/C is covered by a carbon film. The decreased grain size of the Fe‐doped LiVPO4F/C could shorten the ion transport path and thus improve the migration rate of lithium ions. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) showed that the Fe ion exists in the Fe‐doped LiVPO4F/C as Fe3+ ion. At the discharge rate of 1 C, the initial discharge capacity and capacity retention rate of the LiV0.98Fe0.02PO4F/C after 500 cycles were 123.5 mAh/g and 88.6%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores synoptic‐scale circulation conditions that favor vertical motion on heavy rainfall days (HRDs) over North China (NC) and analyzes the quantitative contribution to vertical motion by different forcings using the quasi‐geostrophic (QG) omega equation. On HRDs, moisture is brought from the South China Sea and East China seas by surface cyclonic vortex activity. When South Asian High is located anomalously northward, NC is on the south side of the upper‐level jet (ULJ) stream entrance region. Diagnosis of the QG omega equation shows that vertical motion on HRDs is caused by dynamic forcing, diabatic forcing, and topographic forcing. The greatest contribution to vertical motion is from diabatic forcing, while topographic contributes to vertical motion at low levels. The dynamic forcing, which is manifested by the Q‐vector, indicates that both the ULJ and baroclinic trough generate the vertical motion. Furthermore, the effect of the baroclinic trough is larger than that of the ULJ. On medium rainfall days, the contributions from dynamic forcing, diabatic forcing, and topographic forcing are clearly weaker than on HRDs, with reductions of 62.3%, 71.3%, and 73.8%, respectively. Plain Language Summary: Previous studies have suggested that vertical moisture transport is more important than horizontal moisture advection in heavy rainfall events over North China. However, quantitative contributions to vertical motion during heavy rainfall days (HRDs) from the effects of atmospheric circulation, water vapor, geostrophy, and topographic forcing remain unclear. Using in situ measurements and reanalysis, and based on theoretical analysis, we first analyze the favorable synoptic scale circulation with rich moisture for vertical motion, accompanying the heavy rainfall. Results from the quasi‐geostrophic omega equation then show that latent heat release by condensed water vapor is the greatest impact factor for vertical motion, whereas topographic forcing affects mainly vertical velocity at lower levels, and atmospheric dynamic disturbance affect vertical velocity at mid‐upper levels. Moreover, east‐west dynamic variations are more important than north‐south variations. The structure of the effective dynamical driver more closely resembles the atmospheric baroclinic trough structure than the confluence of the upper‐level jet stream. All of the forcing contributions are clearly weaker on medium rainfall days than on HRDs. Key Points: Synoptic‐scale circulation conditions that favor vertical motion on heavy rainfall days over North China are identifiedContributions of diabatic, dynamic, and topographic forcings to vertical motion are quantified using the quasi‐geostrophic omega equationBoth upper level jet and baroclinic trough generate vertical motion with the latter being more important for heavy rainfall over the NC [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the seasonal intensity variabilities of typhoons (TYs) over the western North Pacific that made landfall in the mainland China during the summer (June–August) and autumn (September–November) seasons for the period of 1979–2017. Using the latest climate reanalysis dataset (ERA5), cloud microphysical properties surrounding the rapid intensification (RI) period within the Super TYs (the maximum wind speed exceeding 51 ms−1) are explored to verify whether there exists microphysical precursor in TY intensity change like RI. The major results are: (a) The total number of landfalling TYs in summer is 188, almost two times of the number in autumn, and 25.5% of them can reach the Super TYs category, while 39.5% of the landfalling TYs in autumn became Super TYs with a shorter lifespan. (b) At least half of the summer and autumn cases have undergone the RI before they reached their maximum intensity, and more autumn cases experienced RI as they approached the coastal areas. (c) Snow and rain contents within the vortex exhibit consistent increasing trends during the RI period in both seasons. It is found that ice and snow contents show relatively distinct increase prior to the intensity change during the RI period in autumn cases, while no obvious signal exists in summer. The short‐term microphysical change and the released latent heat may be insufficient in supporting the onset of RI in Super TYs, and the differences of large‐scale environmental conditions between summer and autumn are mostly responsible for the distinct evolutions of intensity and microphysical characteristics in such strong systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Revealing reorganization patterns of major rivers and their drainage basins have great implications for understanding evolution of mountainous landforms. Drainage reversal, as an important river process, has been widely considered to be directly associated with stream capture highlighting river erosion. As such, few study reported any other mechanisms for explaining formation of drainage reversal. However, its mechanism still remains open due to infrequent occurrence or lacking clear field evidence. Here, we first show that glacial damming highlighting river aggradation can also induce river reversal. Based on geomorphic analysis, measurements of terrace cobbles, and dating results, we suggest that two river reversals occurred at Songzong along the Parlung River in the south‐eastern region of the Tibetan Plateau. Specifically, the river reversed eastward due to a glacier damming event prior to ~23.7 ± 2.0 ka BP and then reversed to flow westward at 20.4 ± 2.7 ka BP due to the break of the glacier dam. Moreover, all the reaches upstream of the glacier deposits along the two rivers at Songzong have smaller channel steepness compared with the corresponding segments downstream, indicating that glacier deposits significantly influenced river incision process of the Parlung River. Combined with previous studies, our results may indicate that glaciers might be an important factor to influence river evolution and fluvial landform of the Eastern Himalayan Syntaxis of the Tibetan Plateau. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The novel BaSnO3/TiO2@HNTs photocatalysts were successfully synthesized by co‐precipitation peroxide and sol‐gel methods. Microstructures, morphologies, compositions, optical and electrochemical properties of the composites were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), UV‐vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL), Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and ion chromatography (IC) methods. The effects of different mass ratios of BaSnO3 and TiO2@HNTs, initial concentration and pH of methylene blue (MB) on the photocatalytic degradation performance of the composites were studied via photodegradation of MB under simulated sunlight irradiation. The characterization results showed that BaSnO3/TiO2 heterojunction and halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) enhanced the electron‐hole pairs separation. The BaSnO3/TiO2@HNTs (BTH‐0.6) composites presented the highest specific surface area (67.957 m2/g), photocatalytic activity (92 %), and MB (Ct=40 mg/L, pH 7) degradation efficiency (2‐4 times that of TiO2, BaSnO3 and BaSnO3/TiO2). Furthermore, the capture experiments verified that ⋅OH, h+ and ⋅O2− were the main active substances during the photo‐catalytic reaction, and a possible degradation mechanism was suggested for their photocatalytic degradation in the presence of BaSnO3/TiO2@HNTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Isomerism is common in fullerene derivatives, and the isomer‐dependent photovoltaic performance of fullerene derivatives is envisaged recently. This review article outlines recent progresses on isomerism of [6,6]‐phenyl‐C61 (or C71)‐butyric acid methyl esters (PCBMs), one of the most prevalent electronic acceptors in organic or perovskite solar cells. Recent developments about the effects of PCBMs isomers on the photovoltaic performance and device stability of organic or perovskite solar cells are summarized, including the mono‐ and bis‐adduct of PC71BM as well as the bis‐adduct of PC61BM. The open questions and future directions with involvement of isomeric PCBMs are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Internet gaming disorder (IGD), a worldwide mental health issue, has been widely studied using neuroimaging techniques during the last decade. Although dysfunctions in resting‐state functional connectivity have been reported in IGD, mapping relationships from abnormal connectivity patterns to behavioral measures have not been fully investigated. Connectome‐based predictive modeling (CPM)—a recently developed machine‐learning approach—has been used to examine potential neural mechanisms in addictions and other psychiatric disorders. To identify the resting‐state connections associated with IGD, we modified the CPM approach by replacing its core learning algorithm with a support vector machine. Resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data were acquired in 72 individuals with IGD and 41 healthy comparison participants. The modified CPM was conducted with respect to classification and regression. A comparison of whole‐brain and network‐based analyses showed that the default‐mode network (DMN) is the most informative network in predicting IGD both in classification (individual identification accuracy = 78.76%) and regression (correspondence between predicted and actual psychometric scale score: r = 0.44, P < 0.001). To facilitate the characterization of the aberrant resting‐state activity in the DMN, the identified networks have been mapped into a three‐subsystem division of the DMN. Results suggest that individual differences in DMN function at rest could advance our understanding of IGD and variability in disorder etiology and intervention outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Preoperative differentiation of borderline from malignant epithelial ovarian tumors (BEOT from MEOT) can impact surgical management. MRI has improved this assessment but subjective interpretation by radiologists may lead to inconsistent results.Purpose: To develop and validate an objective MRI-based machine-learning (ML) assessment model for differentiating BEOT from MEOT, and compare the performance against radiologists' interpretation.Study Type: Retrospective study of eight clinical centers.Population: In all, 501 women with histopathologically-confirmed BEOT (n = 165) or MEOT (n = 336) from 2010 to 2018 were enrolled. Three cohorts were constructed: a training cohort (n = 250), an internal validation cohort (n = 92), and an external validation cohort (n = 159).Field Strength/sequence: Preoperative MRI within 2 weeks of surgery. Single- and multiparameter (MP) machine-learning assessment models were built utilizing the following four MRI sequences: T2 -weighted imaging (T2 WI), fat saturation (FS), diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), and contrast-enhanced (CE)-T1 WI.Assessment: Diagnostic performance of the models was assessed for both whole tumor (WT) and solid tumor (ST) components. Assessment of the performance of the model in discriminating BEOT vs. early-stage MEOT was made. Six radiologists of varying experience also interpreted the MR images.Statistical Tests: Mann-Whitney U-test: significance of the clinical characteristics; chi-square test: difference of label; DeLong test: difference of receiver operating characteristic (ROC).Results: The MP-ST model performed better than the MP-WT model for both the internal validation cohort (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.932 vs. 0.917) and external validation cohort (AUC = 0.902 vs. 0.767). The model showed capability in discriminating BEOT vs. early-stage MEOT, with AUCs of 0.909 and 0.920, respectively. Radiologist performance was considerably poorer than both the internal (mean AUC = 0.792; range, 0.679-0.924) and external (mean AUC = 0.797; range, 0.744-0.867) validation cohorts.Data Conclusion: Performance of the MRI-based ML model was robust and superior to subjective assessment of radiologists. If our approach can be implemented in clinical practice, improved preoperative prediction could potentially lead to preserved ovarian function and fertility for some women.Level Of Evidence: Level 4.Technical Efficacy: Stage 2. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;52:897-904. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of microwave irradiation (300 W for 1.5 min, two times) on the pasting, thermal, and rheological properties of powder cassava starch–sugar mixture (1:1 or 1:2, w:w) were studied. Different sample preparation ways were used: microwave (of starch) before mixing (Mw‐mix), or mixing before microwave (Mix‐mw). Rapid visco‐analyzer (RVA) experiments showed that the peak viscosity, breakdown, final viscosity, setback, as well as pasting temperature of "Mix‐mw" sample were obviously higher than "Mw‐mix" sample. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) experiments showed that the peak temperature (Tp) value of "Mix‐mw" sample was significantly higher than that of the "Mw‐mix" sample, while the gelatinization enthalpy (ΔH) value of the former was significantly lower than that of the latter. Steady‐state rheological experiments showed that "Mix‐mw" samples had larger consistency coefficient (K) and yield stress (σ0) compared with those of "Mw‐mix" sample. The result demonstrated that microwave irradiation could significantly influence the pasting, thermal, and rheological properties of cassava starch–sugar mixture. Practical applications: Cassava starch is an excellent raw material for food industry, and low molecular sugars are often added into starchy food to produce starch‐based desserts. Meanwhile, microwave irradiation has been used as a "green" approach for starch modification and food processing. A comparative study of the pasting, thermal, and rheological properties of cassava starch–sugar mixtures has been studied. The results show that the "Mw‐mix" samples (microwave before mixing) have different physical property compared with the "Mix‐mw" samples (mixing before microwave). The results would be useful to simulate the process of starch modification during microwave irradiation, and they could be applied for the food quality control in food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ovary can be infected by a variety of viruses, which may come from the female reproductive tract or the peritoneum. The innate immune responses to viral infection in the human ovary are poorly understood. The present study demonstrated that human ovarian granulosa cells had innate immune activity in response to viral RNA challenge through Toll‐like receptor 3 (TLR3) activation. TLR3 was constitutively expressed in the human ovary and predominantly located in granulosa cells of developmental follicles at all stages. Polyinosinic‐polycytidylic acid [poly (I:C)], a synthetic viral double‐stranded RNA analog, induced innate immune responses in human ovarian granulosa cells and affected endocrine function. Poly (I:C) significantly upregulated proinflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α), interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐1β and type I interferon (IFN‐α/β), and the innate immune responses were significantly reduced by blocking TLR3 signaling. Furthermore, poly (I:C) induced antiviral genes expression, including 2′‐5′‐oligoadenylate synthetase, Mx GTPase 1, IFN‐stimulating gene 15 and double‐stranded RNA‐activated protein kinase R. In contrast, the expression of P450 aromatase and inhibin was dramatically inhibited by poly (I:C). Both silencing of TLR3 and neutralizing TNF‐α reversed the inhibitory effect of poly (I:C) on P450 aromatase and inhibin expression. Our study demonstrates that granulosa cells play a potential role in innate immune protection against viral infection in the normal human ovary, and the innate immune response perturbs cell endocrine function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effects of vertical wind shear (VWS) on the raindrop size distribution in tropical cyclone are investigated, based on the theoretical analyses that intense VWS, which commonly appears in the lower layers of tropical cyclones, can enhance the collisional breakup of raindrops. This is achieved by comparing the numerical sensitivity experiments of Typhoon Nida (2016) using Weather Research and Forecasting model against the polarimetric radar and disdrometer observations. In the control run with the default Morrison microphysics, unrealistic large raindrops are produced with excessively large differential reflectivity and heavier precipitation. An obvious decrease of raindrop size is present when the constant value of cloud droplet number concentration reduces from 250 to 30 cm−3 (NC30), leading to more comparable microphysics characteristics with the observations due to the enhancement of autoconversion rate from cloud droplets to raindrops; however, some unrealistic large‐sized raindrops still exist. A semiempirical raindrop collection/breakup parameterization is further proposed in NC30_WS run by modifying the threshold diameter of raindrops at which breakup occurs as a function of VWS. The certain improvements of simulating raindrop size distribution and precipitation in Typhoon Nida are present in NC30_WS run, owing to the efficient collisional breakup and the induced stronger raindrop evaporation cooling. Our results indicate that the combined effects of reasonable cloud droplet numbers as well as reliable raindrop breakup parameterization are pronounced and highlight the impacts of VWS on raindrop size distribution, which should be involved in current microphysical schemes to forecast the TCs more accurately. Key Points: Intense VWS commonly appears in the lower layers of TCs, and its value over land is greater than that over the oceanThe efficient collisional breakup induced by VWS will increase raindrop evaporation and slightly weaken TC intensityThe effects of VWS on raindrop size distribution should be added in current microphysical schemes [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A low‐temperature solution‐processed strategy is critical for cost‐effective manufacture of flexible perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Based on an aqueous‐processed TiO2 layer, and conventional fullerene derivatives replaced by a pristine fullerene interlayer of C60, herein a facile interface engineering for making all‐solution‐processed TiO2/C60 layers in flexible n‐i‐p PSCs is reported. Due to the improvement of the perovskite grain quality, promotion of interfacial charge transfer and suppression of interfacial charge recombination, the stabilized power conversion efficiency for the flexible PSCs reaches as high as 16% with high bending resistance retention (≈80% after 1500 cycles) and high light‐soaking retention (≈100% after 100 min). In addition, the stabilized efficiency is over 19% for the rigid TiO2/C60‐based PSCs. The present work with the facile low‐temperature solution process renders the practicability for high‐performance flexible PSCs applied to wearable devices, portable equipment, and electric vehicles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The development of a catalytic intramolecular “cut‐and‐sew” transformation between cyclobutanones and alkynes to construct cyclohexenone‐fused rings is described herein. The challenge arises from the need for selective coupling at the more sterically hindered proximal position, and can be addressed by using an electron‐rich, but less bulky, phosphine ligand. The control experiment and 13C‐labelling study suggest that the reaction may start with cleavage of the less hindered distal C−C bond of cyclobutanones, followed by decarbonylation and CO reinsertion to enable Rh insertion at the more hindered proximal position. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A bicomponent ion-pair molecule compound [Co(Brphterpy)2][Co(NCS)4]·2MeCN was designed and prepared for the construction of multistable functional materials. Due to the different coordination geometries of the cationic and anionic CoII ions, this compound exhibits both thermally induced spin crossover (SCO) and field-induced single-ion magnetism (SIM). This represents a rare example of a two-component system with the coexistence of SIM and SCO behaviors and suggests a simple, yet very efficient strategy for the construction of multistable molecular materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Interferon-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15), a ubiquitin-like protein, is induced by type I INF. Although several groups have reported ISGylation of the HCV NS5A protein, it is still unclear whether ISGylation of NS5A has anti- or pro-viral effects in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. In the present study, the role of ISGylation-independent, unconjugated ISG15 in HCV infection was examined. Immunoprecipitation analyses revealed that ISG15 interacts specifically with NS5A domain I. ISG15 mutants lacking the C-terminal glycine residue that is essential for ISGylation still interacted with NS5A protein. Taken together, these results suggest that unconjugated ISG15 affects the functions of HCV NS5A through protein-protein interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the neuroprotective effects of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) have been demonstrated in several studies, whether H2S protects against early brain injury (EBI) and secondary cognitive dysfunction in subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) model remains unknown. This study was undertaken to evaluate the influence of H2S on both acute brain injury and neurobehavioral changes as well as the underlying mechanisms after SAH. The H2S donor, NaHS, was administered via an intraperitoneal injection at a dose of 5.6 mg/kg at 2 h, 6 h, 24 h, and 46 h after SAH in rat model. The results showed that NaHS treatment significantly improved brain edema and neurobehavioral function, and attenuated neuronal cell death in the prefrontal cortex, associated with a decrease in Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and suppression of caspase-3 activation at 48 h after SAH. NaHS also promoted phospho-Akt and phospho-ERK levels. Furthermore, NaHS treatment significantly enhanced the levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and phospho-CREB. Importantly, NaHS administration improved learning and memory performance in the Morris water maze test at 7 days post-SAH in rats. These results demonstrated that NaHS, as an exogenous H2S donor, could significantly alleviate the development of EBI and cognitive dysfunction induced by SAH via Akt/ERK-related antiapoptosis pathway, and upregulating BDNF-CREB expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite being widely used as electron acceptor in polymer solar cells, commercially available PC71BM (phenyl-C71-butyric acid methyl ester) usually has a 'random' composition of mixed regioisomers or stereoisomers. Here PC71BM has been isolated into three typical isomers, α-, β1- and β2-PC71BM, to establish the isomer-dependent photovoltaic performance on changing the ternary composition of α-, β1- and β2-PC71BM. Mixing the isomers in a ratio of α/β1/β2=8:1:1 resulted in the best power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 7.67 % for the polymer solar cells with PTB7:PC71BM as photoactive layer (PTB7=poly[[4,8-bis[(2-ethylhexyl)oxy]benzo[1,2- b:4,5- b′]dithiophene-2,6-diyl][3-fluoro-2-[(2-ethylhexyl)carbonyl]thieno[3,4- b]thiophenediyl]]). The three typical PC71BM isomers, even though sharing similar LUMO energy levels and light absorption, render starkly different photovoltaic performances with average-performing PCE of 1.28-7.44 % due to diverse self-aggregation of individual or mixed PC71BM isomers in the otherwise same polymer solar cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magneto-plasmonic Janus vesicles (JVs) integrated with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and magnetic NPs (MNPs) were prepared asymmetrically in the membrane for in vivo cancer imaging. The hybrid JVs were produced by coassembling a mixture of hydrophobic MNPs, free amphiphilic block copolymers (BCPs), and AuNPs tethered with amphiphilic BCPs. Depending on the size and content of NPs, the JVs acquired spherical or hemispherical shapes. Among them, hemispherical JVs containing 50 nm AuNPs and 15 nm MNPs showed a strong absorption in the near-infrared (NIR) window and enhanced the transverse relaxation ( T2) contrast effect, as a result of the ordering and dense packing of AuNPs and MNPs in the membrane. The magneto-plasmonic JVs were used as drug delivery vehicles, from which the release of a payload can be triggered by NIR light and the release rate can be modulated by a magnetic field. Moreover, the JVs were applied as imaging agents for in vivo bimodal photoacoustic (PA) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of tumors by intravenous injection. With an external magnetic field, the accumulation of the JVs in tumors was significantly increased, leading to a signal enhancement of approximately 2-3 times in the PA and MR imaging, compared with control groups without a magnetic field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Hepatitis C virus (HCV) non-structural protein 5A (NS5A) is a multifunctional protein that is involved in the HCV life cycle and pathogenesis. In this study, a host protein(s) interacting with NS5A by tandem affinity purification were searched for with the aim of elucidating the role of NS5A. An NS5A-interacting protein, SET and MYND domain-containing 3 (SMYD3), a lysine methyltransferase reportedly involved in the development of cancer, was identified. The interaction between NS5A and SMYD3 was confirmed in ectopically expressing, HCV RNA replicon-harboring and HCV-infected cells. The other HCV proteins did not bind to SMYD3. SMYD3 bound to NS5A of HCV genotypes 1b and 2a. Deletion mutational analysis revealed that domains II and III of NS5A (amino acids [aa] 250 to 447) and the MYND and N-SET domains of SMYD3 (aa 1 to 87) are involved in the full extent of NS5A-SMYD3 interaction. NS5A co-localized with SMYD3 exclusively in the cytoplasm, thereby inhibiting nuclear localization of SMYD3. Moreover, NS5A formed a complex with SMYD3 and heat shock protein 90 (HSP90), which is a positive regulator of SMYD3. The intensity of binding between SMYD3 and HSP90 was enhanced by NS5A. Luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that NS5A significantly induces activator protein 1 (AP-1) activity, this being potentiated by co-expression of SMYD3 with NS5A. Taken together, the present results suggest that NS5A interacts with SMYD3 and induces AP-1 activation, possibly by facilitating binding between HSP90 and SMYD3. This may be a novel mechanism of AP-1 activation in HCV-infected cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiac fibrosis is a major cause of heart failure. Micro RNAs (miRs) are important epigenetic regulators of cardiac function and cardiovascular diseases, including cardiac fibrosis. This study aimed to explore the role of miR-503 and its mechanisms in regulating cardiac fibrosis. miR-503 was found up-regulated in the mouse LV tissues subjected to transverse aortic constriction ( TAC) and in neonatal cardiac fibroblasts ( CFs) cultured with Angiotension II. The role of miR-503 in regulating CF cell proliferation and/or collagen production in mice neonatal CFs were determined using an MTT assay and RT- PCR respectively. Forced expression of miR-503 increased the cellular proliferation and collagen production in mice neonatal CFs. The effects were abrogated by cotransfection with AMO-503 (a specific inhibitor of miR-503). Injection of antagomiR-503 elevated cardiac function and inhibited the expression of connective tissue growth factor ( CTGF) and transforming growth factor ( TGF)-β in the TAC mice. Additional analysis revealed that Apelin-13 is a direct target of miR-503, as the overexpression of miR-503 decreased the protein and mRNA expression levels of Apelin-13. In the CFs with pre-treatment of AngII, we transfected AMO-503 into the cells treated with si RNA- APLN. si RNA- APLN abolished the effects of AMO-503 on the production of collagen I and III and the expression of TGF-β and CTGF. Furthermore, pre-treatment of CFs with Apelin-13 (1-100 nmol/l) inhibited angiotensin II-mediated collagen production and activation of CTGF and TGF-β. So we conclude that miR-503 promotes cardiac fibrosis via miR-503-Apelin-13- TGF-β- CTGF-collagen production pathway. Thus, miR-503 is a promising therapeutic target for reducing cardiac fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a widespread human pathogen that often causes chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The detailed mechanisms underlying HBV pathogenesis remain poorly understood. The HBV X protein (HBx) is a multifunctional regulator that modulates viral replication and host cell functions, such as cell cycle progression, apoptosis and protein degradation through interaction with a variety of host factors. Recently, the nonstructural protein 5A (NS5A) of hepatitis C virus has been reported to interact with methyltransferase SET and MYND domain-containing 3 (SMYD3), which is implicated in chromatin modification and development of cancer. Because HBx shares fundamental regulatory functions concerning viral replication and pathogenesis with NS5A, it was decided to examine whether HBx interacts with SMYD3. In the present study, it was demonstrated by co-immunoprecipitation analysis that HBx interacts with both ectopically and endogenously expressed SMYD3 in Huh-7.5 cells. Deletion mutation analysis revealed that the C-terminal region of HBx (amino acids [aa] 131-154) and an internal region of SMYD3 (aa 269-288) are responsible for their interaction. Immunofluorescence and proximity ligation assays showed that HBx and SMYD3 co-localize predominantly in the cytoplasm. Luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that the interaction between HBx and SMYD3 activates activator protein 1 (AP-1) signaling, but not that of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB). On the other hand, neither overexpression nor knockdown of SMYD3 altered production of HBV transcripts and HBV surface antigen (HBsAg). In conclusion, a novel HBx-interacting protein, SMYD3, was identified, leading to proposal of a novel mechanism of AP-1 activation in HBV-infected cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphene oxide-wrapped gold nanorods (GO@AuNRs) offer efficient drug delivery as well as NIR laser photothermal therapy (PTT) in vitro and in vivo. However, no real-time observation of drug release has been reported to better understand the synergy of chemotherapy and PTT. Herein, surface-enhance Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is employed to guide chemo-photothermal cancer therapy by a two-step mechanism. In the presence of GO as an internal standard, SERS signals of DOX (doxorubicin) loaded onto GO@AuNRs are found to be pH-responsive. Both DOX and GO show strong SERS signals before the DOX@GO@AuNRs are endocytic. However, when the DOX@GO@AuNRs enter acidic microenvironments such as endosomes and/or lysosomes, the DOX signals start decreasing while the GO signals remain the same. This plasmonic antenna could be used to identify the appropriate time to apply the PTT laser during chemo-photothermal therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Clinical Message: Symptoms associated with numerous diseases can be indistinguishable from those of the urinary system disorders because receptors of many visceral organs as well as the body wall transmit sensation through pain fibers shared with the kidneys. Disregarding important family background of genetic disorder can be detrimental for some patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Hepatitis C virus (HCV) NS5A protein plays crucial roles in viral RNA replication, virus assembly, and viral pathogenesis. Although NS5A has no known enzymatic activity, it modulates various cellular pathways through interaction with cellular proteins. HCV NS5A (and other HCV proteins) are reportedly degraded through the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway; however, the physiological roles of ubiquitylation and deubiquitylation in HCV infection are largely unknown. To elucidate the role of deubiquitylation in HCV infection, an attempt was made to identify a deubiquitinase (DUB) that can interact with NS5A protein. An ovarian tumor protein (OTU), deubiquitinase 7B (OTUD7B), was identified as a novel NS5A-binding protein. Co-immunoprecipitation analyses showed that NS5A interacts with OTUD7B in both Huh-7 and HCV RNA replicon cells. Immunofluorescence staining revealed that HCV NS5A protein colocalizes with OTUD7B in the cytoplasm. Moreover, HCV infection was found to enhance the nuclear localization of OTUD7B. The OTUD7B-binding domain on NS5A was mapped using a series of NS5A deletion mutants. The present findings suggest that the domain I of NS5A is important and the region from amino acid 121 to 126 of NS5A essential for the interaction. Either V121A or V124A mutation in NS5A disrupts the NS5A-OTUD7B interaction. The results of this in vivo ubiquitylation assay suggest that HCV NS5A enhances OTUD7B DUB activity. Taken together, these results suggest that HCV NS5A protein interacts with OTUD7B, thereby modulating its DUB activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma ( SPTCL) is a type of skin lymphoma. Pleomorphic T-cells infiltrate the subcutaneous tissue and mimic lobular panniculitis. We report a case occurring in a 12-year-old Chinese boy who presented with multiple indolent erythematous subcutaneous nodules on both extremities without systemic symptoms. He had a protracted course of multiple erythematous subcutaneous nodules for 1 year and underwent biopsy of lesional skin for histology and T-cell receptor ( TCR) gene analysis. Histopathology showed infiltration of medium to large atypical pleomorphic cells involving the subcutis with characteristic rimming of fat spaces. TCR gene rearrangement shows monoclonal rearrangements of the TCR β and γ chains. Immunophenotypic studies showed that CD3, CD4, and CD8 were strongly and diffusely positive in lesional cells and that CD56 was focally positive. In contrast, these cells were negative for CD20, CD30, and CD68. The combined morphology, characteristic histologic features, and positive T-CR gene rearrangement supported a diagnosis of SPTCL. He is being treated with combination chemotherapy of cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisolone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY Sparse Cholesky factorization is the most computationally intensive component in solving large sparse linear systems and is the core algorithm of numerous scientific computing applications. A large number of sparse Cholesky factorization algorithms have previously emerged, exploiting architectural features for various computing platforms. The recent use of graphics processing units (GPUs) to accelerate structured parallel applications shows the potential to achieve significant acceleration relative to desktop performance. However, sparse Cholesky factorization has not been explored sufficiently because of the complexity involved in its efficient implementation and the concerns of low GPU utilization. In this paper, we present a new approach for sparse Cholesky factorization on GPUs. We present the organization of the sparse matrix supernode data structure for GPU and propose a queue-based approach for the generation and scheduling of GPU tasks with dense linear algebraic operations. We also design a subtree-based parallel method for multi-GPU system. These approaches increase GPU utilization, thus resulting in substantial computational time reduction. Comparisons are made with the existing parallel solvers by using problems arising from practical applications. The experiment results show that the proposed approaches can substantially improve sparse Cholesky factorization performance on GPUs. Relative to a highly optimized parallel algorithm on a 12-core node, we were able to obtain speedups in the range 1.59× to 2.31× by using one GPU and 1.80× to 3.21× by using two GPUs. Relative to a state-of-the-art solver based on supernodal method for CPU-GPU heterogeneous platform, we were able to obtain speedups in the range 1.52× to 2.30× by using one GPU and 2.15× to 2.76× by using two GPUs. Concurrency and Computation: Practice and Experience, 2013. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]