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Abstract Background Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) is an essential leguminous forage with high nutrition and strong adaptability. The TIFY family is a plant-specific transcription factor identified in many plants. However, few reports have been reported on the phylogenetic analysis and gene expression profiling of TIFY family genes in alfalfa. Result A total of 84 TIFY genes belonging to 4 categories were identified in alfalfa, including 58 MsJAZs, 18 MsZMLs, 4 MsTIFYs and 4 MsPPDs, respectively. qRT-PCR data from 8 genes in different tissues revealed that most MsTIFY genes were highly expressed in roots. The expression of MsTIFY14 was up-regulated after different times in both thrips-resistant and susceptible alfalfa after thrips feeding, and the expression of the remaining MsTIFYs had a strong correlation with the time of thrips feeding. Different abiotic stresses, including drought, salt, and cold, could induce or inhibit the expression of MsTIFY genes to varying degrees. In addition, the eight genes were all significantly up-regulated by JA and/or SA. Interestingly, MsTIFY77 was induced considerably by all the biotic, abiotic, or plant hormones (JA or SA) except ABA. Conclusion Our study identified members of the TIFY gene family in alfalfa and analyzed their structures and possible functions. It laid the foundation for further research on the molecular functions of TIFYs in alfalfa.

Abstract Genetic generalized epilepsies (GGE) exhibit widespread morphometric alterations in the subcortical structures. Subcortical structures are essential for understanding GGE pathophysiology, but their fine-grained morphological diversity has yet to be comprehensively investigated. Furthermore, the relationships between macroscale morphological disturbances and microscale molecular chemoarchitectures are unclear. High-resolution structural images were acquired from patients with GGE (n = 97) and sex- and age-matched healthy controls (HCs, n = 184). Individual measurements of surface shape features (thickness and surface area) of seven bilateral subcortical structures were quantified. The patients and HCs were then compared vertex-wise, and shape anomalies were co-located with brain neurotransmitter profiles. We found widespread morphological alterations in GGE and prominent disruptions in the thalamus, putamen, and hippocampus. Shape area dilations were observed in the bilateral ventral, medial, and right dorsal thalamus, as well as the bilateral lateral putamen. We found that the shape area deviation pattern was spatially correlated with the norepinephrine transporter and nicotinic acetylcholine (Ach) receptor (α 4 β 2 ) profiles, but a distinct association was seen in the muscarinic Ach receptor (M 1 ). The findings provided a comprehensive picture of subcortical morphological disruptions in GGE, and further characterized the associated molecular mechanisms. This information may increase our understanding of the pathophysiology of GGE.

Abstract Background Although early hemivertebra (HV) resection and short fusion (within 4 segments) have been successful in treating congenital HV, there is limited research comparing the outcomes of the shortest-segment fusion (2 segments) versus 3 or 4 segments, particularly in young children. To evaluate the efficacy of posterior hemivertebrectomy combined with two or more segments fusion in children under the age of 10 years with a solitary simple lower thoracic or lumbar HV (T8-L5). Methods This retrospective study included patients under the age of 10 with lower thoracic or lumbar solitary simple HV who underwent hemivertebra resection (HVR) and transpedicular short fusion and were divided into HV ± 1 group (2 segment fusion) and HV ± 2 group (3 or 4-segment fusion). The study recorded preoperative, postoperative (1 week), and the latest follow-up radiographic parameters and complications. The results of the coronal and sagittal planes were analyzed, and the main curve, segmental scoliosis curve, compensatory scoliosis curve, segmental kyphosis curve, and trunk shift were compared. Results The study included 35 patients (15 in the HV ± 1 group and 20 in the HV ± 2 group) with a mean age of 5.26 ± 2.31 years and a mean follow-up of 22.54 months (12–68). The mean preoperative Cobb angle was 32.66° ± 7.339° (HV ± 1) and 29.31°±6.642° (HV ± 2). The final Cobb angle was 10.99°± 7.837° (HV ± 1) and 8.22° ± 4.295° (HV ± 2). The main curve corrected by 72% (HV ± 1), 75% (HV ± 2) postoperatively and 67% (HV ± 1), 72% (HV ± 2) at the final follow-up (P > 0.05). There were no significant differences in the correction of the segmental scoliosis curve, compensatory scoliosis curve, segmental kyphosis curve, and trunk shift between the HV ± 1 and HV ± 2 groups (P > 0.05). The unplanned reoperation rate for HV in the thoracolumbar region (T11-L2) is significantly higher (P = 0.038). Conclusion In the context of solitary simple lower thoracic or lumbar HV (T8-L5), HV ± 1 segment fusion suffices and yields comparable correction outcomes in the midterm period when compared to HV ± 2. The reoperation rate exhibited a statistically significant increase in the thoracolumbar region.

Introduction Assessing the burden of ischemic heart disease (IHD) attributable to secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure is crucial for informing evidence-based healthcare practices, prevention strategies, and resource allocation planning. Methods The burden of IHD attributable to SHS from 1990 to 2019 was assessed using the comparative risk assessment method as part of the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study 2019. Results Globally, the absolute number of deaths and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) from IHD due to SHS increased substantially from 270.0 thousand and 6971.3 thousand in 1990 to 397.4 thousand and 9566.1 thousand in 2019. The corresponding age-standardized mortality rates (ASMR) and age-standardized DALYs rates (ASDR) were both in a decreasing trend with estimate of the annual percentage change (EAPC) of -1.38 (-1.42 – -1.34) and -1.43 (-1.47 – -1.38). Central Asia has the highest ASMR (16 per 100000, 95% uncertainty interval, UI: 12.8–19.4), and Oceania has the highest ASDR (323.2 per 100000, 95% UI: 228.9–443.1 per 100000) in 2019. All sociodemographic index (SDI) category regions showed a decreasing trend in ASMR and ASDR, with the decrease being more obvious in high and high-middle SDI regions. Our analysis identified an escalating trend concerning ASMR and ASDR in Oceania from 1990 to 2019. In 2019, the most significant number of deaths and DALYs occurred in the age group of 80–84 years (5.4 thousand, 95% UI: 3.7–7.3 in thousands) and the age group of 55–59 years (1140.8 thousand, 95% UI: 876.1–1435 in thousands). Conclusions Our study reveals an absolute global increase in deaths and DALYs from IHD due to SHS from 1990 to 2019. Despite a declining trend in ASMR and ASDR, regional disparities persist. The elderly and middle-aged populations bore the most significant burden. These findings highlight the ongoing global health impact of SHS on IHD and emphasize the need for targeted interventions in regions with rising trends and vulnerable age groups.

Abstract Background Drug-free in vitro activation (IVA) is a new protocol to activate residual dormant follicles for fertility restoration in patients with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). However, several deficiencies have reduced its clinical efficacy rate. Our previous studies have confirmed that the combination of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) and drug-free IVA can improve the effectiveness of drug-free IVA and restore ovarian function of rats with POI. Increasing evidence has demonstrated that mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes have similar therapeutic effects as their source cells. Here, we performed a preclinical study to evaluate the therapeutic effects of ADSCs-derived exosomes (ADSCs-Exos) combined with drug-free IVA in the POI rats and the mechanism in restoring ovarian function. Results In vivo, the effects of ADSCs-Exos were comparable to those of ADSCs, and the ADSCs-Exos combined with drug-free IVA was better than ADSCs-Exos alone therapy in promoting follicular development. Moreover, transplantation of ADSCs/ADSCs-Exos lead to up-regulation of BCL-2 expression and down-regulation of the expression of Bax and Cleaved Caspase-3, thus reducing the apoptosis of chemotherapy-induced follicle cells, and further promoting the development of the follicles and rescuing ovarian function in POI-damaged ovary. In vitro, ovarian fragmentation could activate follicular growth and development, and in combination with ADSCs-Exos could prevent the loss of follicles, promote follicular proliferation and inhibit apoptosis. Conclusions ADSCs-Exos combined drug-free IVA had remarkable therapeutic effects in restoring ovarian function of POI rats, and markedly promoted follicular development and inhibited apoptosis of ovarian cells in vitro. Our study confirmed that the combination therapy might be a promising and effective treatment for POI.

Abstract BUB1 mitotic checkpoint serine/threonine kinase B (BUB1b) has been unequivocally identified as an oncogene in various cancers. However, the potential mechanism by which BUB1b orchestrates the progression of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remains unclear. Here we found that both the transcript and protein levels of BUB1b were dramatically upregulated in tumor tissues and contributed to the dismal prognosis of LUAD patients. Moreover, gain- and loss-of-function assays, conducted both in vitro and in vivo, confirmed that BUB1b enhanced the viability of LUAD cells. Mechanistically, BUB1b forms a complex with OTUD3 and NRF2 and stabilizes the downstream NRF2 signaling pathway to facilitate insensitivity to ferroptosis and chemotherapy. In BALB/c nude mice bearing subcutaneous tumors that overexpress BUB1b, a combined strategy of ML385 targeting and chemotherapy achieved synergistic effects, inhibiting tumor growth and obviously improving survival. Taken together our study uncovered the underlying mechanism by which BUB1b promotes the progression of LUAD and proposed a novel strategy to enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy.

Abstract Current research on apron conflict detection is often limited to the interaction between the aircraft as a whole and other objects, making it difficult to accomplish targeted identification of vulnerable and high‐cost aircraft components. However, the implementation of detailed aircraft identification is of great significance to enhance the safety of airport surface operations. Based on the excellent performance of High‐Resolution Network (HRNet) in keypoint detection, a lightweight end‐to‐end keypoint detection network, namely Squeeze and Excitation High‐Resolution Network (SEHRNet), is proposed in this paper to solve the problems of HRNet's slower computation and more redundancy. First, the errors arising from coordinate transformations in the coding and decoding process are solved by an improved feature map coding and decoding process. Second, replace the BasicBlock in HRNet with the Depthwise separable convolutions based on the Squeeze‐and‐Excitation Networks, which drastically cuts the computational cost of the network. Third, the improved Bottleneck module is used to further enhance the capability of feature extraction. Experimental results prove that, based on the aircraft keypoint detection dataset, the SEHRNet proposed in this paper shows stronger applicability compared to the current mainstream networks. Compared with the original HRNet, the improved network has higher accuracy, faster speed, and lighter model for aircraft keypoint detection.

The large-size AZ80 magnesium alloy slab was manufactured using direct chill casting assisted by out-of-phase pulsed magnetic field. Subsequently, the effects of OPMF on the as-cast structure and the Al content were investigated. By using numerical simulation, the macro physical fields including the flow field, the temperature distribution, and the sump profile were simulated and compared between the slab with and without OPMF. After introducing the OPMF, significant grain refinement occurred, and the macrosegregation degree of the Al element was alleviated. Compared with the case without OPMF, the simulations revealed that the melt flow rate and its range were greatly increased, accelerating the convective heat transfer in the sump. As a result, the temperature field was more uniformed distributed, the cooling rate was increased and the sump depth became shallower. The relevant mechanisms between the experimental results and the simulation results were discussed in detail.

Transportation infrastructure is crucial to China’s economic growth because it substantially contributes to the holistic development of rural primary, secondary, and tertiary industries. This study innovatively examines transportation infrastructure and urbanization levels to explore, both theoretically and empirically, their relationship with the holistic development of primary, secondary, and tertiary industries in rural China, and the mediating role of urbanization on this relationship. We employed fixed-effects models, the entropy weight approach, mixed regression, and generalized method of moments to analyze the data of 30 provinces across China from 2013 to 2020. The results indicate that the construction of transportation infrastructure directly fosters the collective advancement of such industries in rural areas and that urbanization partially mediates the transportation infrastructure–rural industry integration relationship. However, the western region shows disparities in the integrated development of these sectors. Further analysis reveals that foreign investments amplify the positive influence of transportation infrastructure on rural industry integration. Essentially, the enhancement of rural transportation infrastructure, promotion of urbanization, implementation of strategic planning, and strengthening of support mechanisms are crucial aspects in the comprehensive development of rural industries and the achievement of rural revitalization in China.

With the development of building seismic isolation technology and the official release of the Isolation Code in September 2021, seismic isolation design in China will now rely on two foundational codes: the Seismic Code and the Isolation Code. This paper take a ceramic jar storage of the RC frame structure as the research object, and carry out the seismic isolation design based on the separated calculation design method of the Seismic Code and the unitary calculation design method of the Isolation Code respectively, and clarify the control index of the Isolation Code is the story drift angle. The maximum displacement is reduced by 37.5%. In terms of material consumption, the Isolation Code leads to a 5.94% decrease in concrete usage, accompanied by a 13.97% increase in steel consumption, resulting in an overall cost increase of 4.98%. The findings indicate that seismic isolation design, guided by the Isolation Code, substantially mitigates the seismic response of the superstructure. The damage extent to structural members is reduced by 15–20%, promoting enhanced safety and repairability. The outcomes of this study offer valuable insights for future seismic isolation designs in RC frame structures.

In order to investigate the influence of gradual stress relieving treatment on the microstructure, texture evolution, grain structure, and misorientation distribution of the hot-rolled Ti6Al4V–5Cu (α+β) alloy deformed in various thickness reduction ratios (TRR's) of 15%, 58%, and 73% to maintain the burger orientation relationship (BOR), different stress reliving treatment was specially designed for relieving the residual stresses occurred due to the hot deformation process. Using IPF maps, the majority of the α grains, specifically the elongated ones were found nearly at 45 ° with respect to the rolling and transverse direction. The study also show that the heat treatment schedule on the 58% deformed alloy significantly promote the transformation of β to α phase and a special microstructure with an equiaxed grains is produced. The local misorientation angle distribution due to stress reliving treatment has also discussed. Using EBSD analysis, the alloy processed under highest TRR's (i.e., 73%) and subsequent stress relieving treatment could result a serious internal crystalline instability with various degree of element diffusion rate, which promote a severe and ease of alloy coarsening. Thus, coarsening encourage the formation of grains with the highest softening potential, comparatively. It is obvious that the stress-relived treatment does not result a change in microstructure. However the internal residual stresses on the hot deformation were relieved, the texture intensity had increased quietly. A significant textural behavior could be achieved on the 73% hot-rolled alloys by the stress-relieving process to align the α/β fiber texture interface in parallel coincidence to maintain the BOR.

Abstract Background Oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) can initiate and affect almost all atherosclerotic events including endothelial dysfunction. In this text, the role and underlying molecular basis of procyanidin B2 (PCB2) with potential anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities in ox-LDL-induced HUVEC injury were examined. Methods HUVECs were treated with ox-LDL in the presence or absence of PCB2. Cell viability and apoptotic rate were examined by CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry, respectively. The mRNA and protein levels of genes were tested by RT-qPCR and western blot assays, respectively. Potential downstream targets and pathways of apple procyanidin oligomers were examined by bioinformatics analysis for the GSE9647 dataset. The effect of PCB2 on THP-1 cell migration was examined by recruitment assay. The effect of PCB2 on oxidative stress was assessed by reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). Results ox-LDL reduced cell viability, induced cell apoptosis, and facilitated the expression of oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor 1 (LOX-1), C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 (MCP-1), vascular cell adhesion protein 1 (VCAM-1) in HUVECs. PCB2 alleviated ox-LDL-induced cell injury in HUVECs. Apple procyanidin oligomers triggered the differential expression of 592 genes in HUVECs (|log2fold-change| > 0.58 and adjusted p-value

Operational safety at airports has long been a subject of active research, with a growing focus on the safety of aircraft stands in recent years. The phase during which an aircraft taxi into its designated stand with engines still running poses safety risks to surrounding vehicles. However, there is currently a lack of effective methods for detecting potential conflicts and hazards during this taxiing phase. To address this issue, this study utilizes apron activity videos as a monitoring data source and introduces an integrated Internet of Things (IoT) conflict detection model. This system combines object detection, engine keypoint detection, coordinate conversion, and conflict warning system to provide timely alerts when vehicles incursion into the engine danger areas. Firstly, the paper streamlines the fourth-level branch and network of HRNet, resulting in the HRNet-3stage network. This network is then compared with Lite-HRNet to determine the optimal choice. Secondly, Recognizing the limitations of traditional video conflict detection based on pixel distance, a fixed monitoring camera coordinate conversion algorithm is designed to convert pixel coordinates into actual coordinates on the aircraft stand, thereby improving the accuracy of conflict detection based on distance measurement. Thirdly, considering the risks associated with engine inlet and exhaust, engine design parameters, static spacing standards, and the dynamic anti-collision process within the aircraft stand, the study proposes a method for classifying four types of aircraft engine danger areas. Corresponding conflict detection models are designed for potential scraping incidents when vehicles incursion into these danger areas. Upon detecting a vehicle entering the aircraft engine danger areas, the IoT system sends warning messages through the airport control tower monitoring system. Finally, we construct an apron sandbox to validate the conflict detection model. This validation results in an impressive F1-score exceeding 90% and a detection delay of less than 100 ms. Our innovative approach, supported by keypoint detection networks and IoT, effectively addresses the detection of critical aircraft components within stands. It comprehensively analyzes incursion issues into engine danger areas, offering a novel perspective for understanding and mitigating potential conflicts arising from aircraft taxiing into stands.

We investigated the value of plasma cytokine levels as markers of pathogenesis and treatment response in patients with non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) pulmonary disease. Plasma cytokine levels were measured and compared among patients with NTM pulmonary disease (n=111), tuberculosis (TB) patients (n=50), and healthy individuals (n=40). Changes during treatment were monitored at 3 and 6 months after treatment. According to the treatment response, NTM patients were classified as ‘resistance' or ‘sensitivity' responders. The results revealed that five out of twelve cytokines exhibited significantly higher levels in NTM patients compared to controls. Among these, interleukin (IL)-6 demonstrated the strongest discriminating capacity for NTM. Furthermore, when combined with IL-1β, they efficiently distinguished between NTM drug-resistant and drug-sensitive patients, as well as between NTM and TB groups. Additionally, IL-6 levels initially rose and then decreased in the NTM drug-resistant group during the six months of treatment, similar to the behavior of IL-1β in the NTM drug-sensitive group. Subgroup analyses of the sensitive group with differential treatment responses revealed an increase in IL-10 levels in the six-month treatment responders. A high IL-6/IL-10 ratio was associated with increased disease severity of NTM and TB. Collectively, combinations of various plasma cytokines, specifically IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10, effectively distinguished NTM patients with varying mycobacterial burdens, with IL-6 and IL-10 emerging as potential biomarkers for early treatment response. The combination of IL-6 and IL-1β demonstrated the highest discriminatory value for distinguishing between NTM-resistant and NTM-sensitive groups as well as between NTM and TB groups.

SINA (Seven in absentia) E3 ligases are critical components of the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). They are responsible for ubiquitination and are involved in numerous cellular processes. The functional mechanisms of SINAs have been extensively studied in a few angiosperms. However, our understanding of the origin and evolution of plant SINA genes remain limited. Here we performed a large-scale comprehensive analysis of SINA proteins from various plant lineages. The plant SINA family genes likely originated from a common ancestral gene prior to the divergence of bryophyte and gave rise to two clades. Within clade I, subsequent parallel innovations in lycophytes and ferns resulted in the formation of two branches. All SINA proteins contain an N-terminal cysteine-rich really interesting new gene (RING) domain for ubiquitination, two zinc-finger motifs, and a C-terminal domain required for substrate-binding and dimerization. The SINA genes gains and losses occurred in angiosperms, resulting in an increase in the number of gene copies in eudicots and monocots. The Gossypium genus SINAs showed a tendency for expansion via whole-genome duplication and polyploidy. Finally, global expression patterns revealed the functional diversification of SINA genes in developmental stage and response to hormones and abiotic stresses in Arabidopsis and rice. These findings provide an insight into the evolution and diversification of SINA E3 ligases in plants and enhance our understanding of the role they play in determining substrate specificity and environment stress adaptations in angiosperms.

The association between the red blood cell distribution width-platelet ratio (RPR) and mortality in heart failure patients remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the potential non-linear relationship between RPR and 1-year mortality risk. A retrospective cohort study was conducted involving 6982 participants from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC-IV) database. Multivariable Cox regression and restricted cubic spline analyses were performed to evaluate the association between RPR and 1-year mortality, adjusting for potential confounders. We observed 1091 patients died in hospital and 2535 patients died during 1 year follow-up period. The prevalence or incidence of mortality did not show statistically significant differences among RPR groups in the overall study population. However, a positive association between RPR and the risk of mortality was noted after adjusting for multiple variables (HR = 1.38, 95 % CI = 1.06–1.81, P = 0.018). Analysis using restricted cubic splines indicated a U-shaped relationship between RPR levels and the risk of mortality (P nonlinearity 0.104) (HR = 2.656, 95 % CI: 1.692–4.170).This U-shaped association was consistent across subgroup analyses (all interaction P values > 0.05). RPR exhibits a U-shaped association with 1-year mortality in heart failure patients, suggesting both low and high RPR levels are linked to increased risk. RPR may serve as a relevant biomarker for risk stratification in this population. We incorporated RPR into the SOFA (AUC 0.731) and SAPS II (AUC 0.746) models, which significantly improved their predictive ability for in-hospital mortality. For 1-year mortality prediction, RPR + SAPS II (AUC 0.683) showed significantly improved accuracy, while RPR + SOFA (AUC 0.626) did not improve significantly.

ABSTRACT Klebsiella pneumoniae is an important opportunistic pathogen that causes a variety of infections. It is critical for bacteria to maintain metal homeostasis during infection. By using an isogenic mntP deletion mutant of K. pneumoniae strain NTUH-K2044, we found that MntP was a manganese efflux pump. Manganese increased the tolerance to oxidative stress, and oxidative stress could increase the intracellular manganese concentration. In oxidative stress, the mntP deletion mutant exhibited significantly higher sensitivity to manganese. Furthermore, iron could increase the tolerance of the mntP deletion mutant to manganese. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry analysis revealed that the mntP deletion mutant had higher intracellular manganese and iron concentrations than wild-type and complementary strains. These findings suggested that iron could increase manganese tolerance in K. pneumoniae. This work elucidated the role of MntP in manganese detoxification and Mn/Fe homeostasis in K. pneumoniae.IMPORTANCEMetal homeostasis plays an important role during the process of bacterial infection. Herein, we revealed that MntP was involved in intracellular manganese homeostasis. Manganese promoted resistance to oxidative stress in Klebsiella pneumoniae. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the mntP deletion mutant exhibited significantly lower survival under manganese and H2O2 conditions. Oxidative stress increased the intracellular manganese content of the mntP deletion mutant. MntP played a critical role in maintaining intracellular manganese and iron concentrations. MntP contributed to manganese detoxification and Mn/Fe homeostasis in K. pneumoniae.

BackgroundThis study is to examine the factors associated with short-term aortic-related adverse events in patients with acute type B aortic intramural hematoma (IMH). Additionally, we develop a risk prediction nomogram model and evaluate its accuracy.MethodsThis study included 197 patients diagnosed with acute type B IMH. The patients were divided into stable group (n = 125) and exacerbation group (n = 72) based on the occurrence of aortic-related adverse events. Logistic regression and the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) method for variables based on baseline assessments with significant differences in clinical and image characteristics were employed to identify independent predictors. A nomogram risk model was constructed based on these independent predictors. The nomogram model was evaluated using various methods such as the receiver operating characteristic curve, calibration curve, decision analysis curve, and clinical impact curve. Internal validation was performed using the Bootstrap method.ResultsA nomogram risk prediction model was established based on four variables: absence of diabetes, anemia, maximum descending aortic diameter (MDAD), and ulcer-like projection (ULP). The model demonstrated a discriminative ability with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.813. The calibration curve indicated a good agreement between the predicted probabilities and the actual probabilities. The Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness of fit test showed no significant difference (χ2 = 7.040, P = 0.532). The decision curve analysis (DCA) was employed to further confirm the clinical effectiveness of the nomogram.ConclusionThis study introduces a nomogram prediction model that integrates four important risk factors: ULP, MDAD, anemia, and absence of diabetes. The model allows for personalized prediction of patients with type B IMH.

Globally, vegetation has been changing dramatically. The vegetation–water dynamic is key to understanding ecosystem structure and functioning in water-limited ecosystems. Continual satellite monitoring has detected global vegetation greening. However, a vegetation greenness increase does not mean that ecosystem functions increase. The intricate interplays resulting from the relationships between vegetation and precipitation must be more adequately comprehended. In this study, satellite data, for example, leaf area index (LAI), net primary production (NPP), and rainfall use efficiency (RUE), were used to quantify vegetation dynamics and their relationship with rainfall in different reaches of the Yellow River Basin (YRB). A sequential regression method was used to detect trends of NPP sensitivity to rainfall. The results showed that 34.53% of the YRB exhibited a significant greening trend since 2000. Among them, 20.54%, 53.37%, and 16.73% of upper, middle, and lower reach areas showed a significant positive trend, respectively. NPP showed a similar trend to LAI in the YRB upper, middle, and lower reaches. A notable difference was noted in the distributions and trends of RUE across the upper, middle, and lower reaches. Moreover, there were significant trends in vegetation–rainfall sensitivity in 16.86% of the YRB’s middle reaches—14.08% showed negative trends and 2.78% positive trends. A total of 8.41% of the YRB exhibited a marked increase in LAI, NPP, and RUE. Subsequently, strategic locations reliant on the correlation between vegetation and rainfall were identified and designated for restoration planning purposes to propose future ecological restoration efforts. Our analysis indicates that the middle reach of the YRB exhibited the most significant variation in vegetation greenness and productivity. The present study underscores the significance of examining the correlation between vegetation and rainfall within the context of the high-quality development strategy of the YRB. The outcomes of our analysis and the proposed ecological restoration framework can provide decision-makers with valuable insights for executing rational basin pattern optimization and sustainable management.

Abstract Background Salmonella enteritidis (SE) is a major zoonotic pathogen and causes infections in a variety of hosts. The development of novel vaccines for SE is necessary to eradicate this pathogen. Genetically engineered attenuated live vaccines are more immunogenic and safer. Thus, to develop a live attenuated Salmonella vaccine, we constructed a cheV gene deletion strain of SE (named ΔcheV) and investigated the role of cheV in the virulence of SE. First, the ability to resist environmental stress in vitro, biofilm formation capacity, drug resistance and motility of ΔcheV were analyzed. Secondly, the bacterial adhesion, invasion, intracellular survival assays were performed by cell model. Using a mouse infection model, an in vivo virulence assessment was conducted. To further evaluate the mechanisms implicated by the reduced virulence, qPCR analysis was utilized to examine the expression of the strain’s major virulence genes. Finally, the immune protection rate of ΔcheV was evaluated using a mouse model. Results Compared to C50336, the ΔcheV had significantly reduced survival ability under acidic, alkaline and thermal stress conditions, but there was no significant difference in survival under oxidative stress conditions. There was also no significant change in biofilm formation ability, drug resistance and motility. It was found that the adhesion ability of ΔcheV to Caco-2 cells remained unchanged, but the invasion ability and survival rate in RAW264.7 cells were significantly reduced. The challenge assay results showed that the LD50 values of C50336 and ΔcheV were 6.3 × 105 CFU and 1.25 × 107 CFU, respectively. After the deletion of the cheV gene, the expression levels of fimD, flgG, csgA, csgD, hflK, lrp, sipA, sipB, pipB, invH, mgtC, sodC, rfbH, xthA and mrr1 genes were significantly reduced. The live attenuated ΔcheV provided 100% protection in mice against SE infection. Conclusion All the results confirmed that the deletion of the cheV gene reduces the virulence of SE and provides significant immune protection in mice, indicating that ΔcheV could be potential candidates to be explored as live-attenuated vaccines.

Abstract This paper presents an integrated control scheme for enhancing the ride comfort and handling performance of a four-wheel-independent-drive electric vehicle through the coordination of active suspension system (ASS) and anti-lock braking system (ABS). First, a longitudinal-vertical coupled vehicle dynamics model is established by integrating a road input model. Then the coupling mechanisms between longitudinal and vertical vehicle dynamics are analyzed. An ASS-ABS integrated control system is proposed, utilizing an H ∞ controller for ASS to optimize load transfer effect and a neural network sliding mode control for ABS implementation. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme is evaluated through comprehensive tests conducted on a hardware-in-loop (HIL) test platform. The HIL test results demonstrate that the proposed control scheme can significantly improve the braking performance and ride comfort compared to conventional ABS control methods.

Abstract Background Osteofibrous dysplasia (OFD) occurs most frequently in the tibia and may result in deformity and pathological fracture. Surgical treatment such as curettage or segment excision has been performed but remains controversial due to high complication rates and surgical burden. This study introduces a new method to manage OFD with anterior bowing of the tibia using minimally invasive tibial osteotomy and telescopic rod (TR) osteosynthesis without extensive lesion resection. Methods A retrospective study of 4 children with OFD and tibia bowing deformity treated with minimally invasive tibial wedge osteotomy and TR fixation between January 2015 and November 2020 was performed. Results including bone healing, complications, function based on MSTS score, and recurrance of deformity were assessed. Results The median follow-up was 29 months. Radiographs showed the median time for union was 3 months. There were no instances of refracture or recurrence of deformity. The mean post-operative MSTS score was significantly higher than preoperative score. Conclusions This method avoids large bone defects and reconstructive procedures. It is an effective and minimally invasive approach for managing anterior bowing deformity secondary to OFD while improving function and quality of life. Level of evidence Level IV; Case Series; Treatment Study.

Abstract While genome-wide studies have identified genomic loci in hosts associated with life-threatening Covid-19 (critical Covid-19), the challenge of resolving these loci hinders further identification of clinically actionable targets and drugs. Building upon our previous success, we here present a priority index solution designed to address this challenge, generating the target and drug resource that consists of two indexes: the target index and the drug index. The primary purpose of the target index is to identify clinically actionable targets by prioritising genes associated with Covid-19. We illustrate the validity of the target index by demonstrating its ability to identify pre-existing Covid-19 phase-III drug targets, with the majority of these targets being found at the leading prioritisation (leading targets). These leading targets have their evolutionary origins in Amniota (‘four-leg vertebrates’) and are predominantly involved in cytokine-cytokine receptor interactions and JAK-STAT signaling. The drug index highlights opportunities for repurposing clinically approved JAK-STAT inhibitors, either individually or in combination. This proposed strategic focus on the JAK-STAT pathway is supported by the active pursuit of therapeutic agents targeting this pathway in ongoing phase-II/III clinical trials for Covid-19.

Abstract Epilepsies are a group of neurological disorders characterized by abnormal spontaneous brain activity, involving multiscale changes in brain functional organizations. However, it is not clear to what extent the epilepsy-related perturbations of spontaneous brain activity affect macroscale intrinsic dynamics and microcircuit organizations, that supports their pathological relevance. We collect a sample of patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and genetic generalized epilepsy with tonic-clonic seizure (GTCS), as well as healthy controls. We extract massive temporal features of fMRI BOLD time-series to characterize macroscale intrinsic dynamics, and simulate microcircuit neuronal dynamics used a large-scale biological model. Here we show whether macroscale intrinsic dynamics and microcircuit dysfunction are differed in epilepsies, and how these changes are linked. Differences in macroscale gradient of time-series features are prominent in the primary network and default mode network in TLE and GTCS. Biophysical simulations indicate reduced recurrent connection within somatomotor microcircuits in both subtypes, and even more reduced in GTCS. We further demonstrate strong spatial correlations between differences in the gradient of macroscale intrinsic dynamics and microcircuit dysfunction in epilepsies. These results emphasize the impact of abnormal neuronal activity on primary network and high-order networks, suggesting a systematic abnormality of brain hierarchical organization.

Abstract Background Previous studies have found that frailty and sarcopenia are commonly diagnosed in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients, indicating an association between these conditions. Nonetheless, the cause‒effect connection between IBD, frailty, and sarcopenia remains unclear. Methods We sourced the genetic variants for the exposures and outcomes from publicly accessible, extensive genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Specifically, we obtained IBD data from the International IBD Genetics Consortium, frailty index (FI) data from the United Kingdom Biobank and Swedish TwinGene, and sarcopenia data from a recent GWAS meta-analysis. Five methods, including inverse variance weighted (IVW), simple mode, MR-Egger, weighted mode, and the weighted median, were used to proceed with MR estimates. We also performed heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy tests. Results Our results indicated a positive causal relationship between ulcerative colitis (UC) (IVW: β = 0.014, 95% CI, 0.006 to 0.021, p = 0.001) and Crohn's disease (CD) (IVW: β = 0.012; 95% CI, 0.006 to 0.018, p = 2e−04) with the FI. However, we uncovered no proof of a cause-and-effect relationship between UC (IVW: β = 0.001, 95% CI, −0.015 to 0.017, p = 0.344) or CD (IVW: β = 0.003, 95% CI, −0.009 to 0.015, p = 0.214) and sarcopenia. Additionally, in the inverse order, we also discovered no cause-and-effect connection between FI or sarcopenia on UC or CD in this study. Conclusion The MR analysis showed a positive causal association between IBD and FI, indicating that IBD patients may exhibit aging-related characteristics. Therefore, frailty assessments should be conducted as early as possible in IBD patients.

Through exploring the stress corrosion cracking (SCC) behaviors of the as-cast Mg-8%Li and Mg-8%Li-6%Zn-1.2%Y alloys in a 0.1 M NaCl solution, it revealed that the SCC susceptibility index (ISCC) of the Mg-8%Li alloy was 47%, whilst the ISCC of the Mg-8%Li-6%Zn-1.2%Y alloy was 68%. Surface, cross-sectional and fractography observations indicated that for the Mg-8%Li alloy, the α-Mg/β-Li interfaces acted as the preferential crack initiation sites and propagation paths during the SCC process. With regard to the Mg-8%Li-6%Zn-1.2%Y alloy, the crack initiation sites included the I-phase and the interfaces of I-phase/β-Li and α-Mg/β-Li, and the preferential propagation paths were the I-phase/β-Li and α-Mg/β-Li interfaces. Moreover, the SCC of the two alloys was concerned with hydrogen embrittlement (HE) mechanism.

Background: Central nervous system (CNS) injury is the most prominent feature of heatstroke and the hippocampus is prone to damage. However, the mechanisms underlying the heatstroke-induced hippocampal injury remain unclear. Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy prevents CNS injury in heatstroke mice. However, the underlying mechanisms of HBO in heatstroke-induced hippocampal injury remain unclear. This study aimed to elucidate the protective effects of HBO against hippocampal injury and its potential role in microglial pyroptosis in heatstroke rats.Methods: A rat heatstroke model and a heat stress model with a mouse microglial cell line (BV2) were, respectively, used to illustrate the effect of HBO on heat-induced microglial pyroptosis in vivo and in vitro. We used a combination of molecular and histological methods to assess microglial pyroptosis and neuroinflammation both in vivo and in vitro.Results: The results revealed that HBO improved heatstroke-induced survival outcomes, hippocampal injury, and neurological dysfunction in rats. In addition, HBO mitigates microglial pyroptosis and reduces the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the hippocampus of heatstroke rats. In vitro experiments showed that HBO attenuated BV2 cell injury under heat stress. Furthermore, HBO prevented heat-induced pyroptosis of BV2 cells, and the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-18 and IL-1β was reduced. Mechanistically, HBO alleviates heatstroke-induced neuroinflammation and hippocampal injury by preventing microglial pyroptosis. Conclusions: In conclusion, HBO attenuates heatstroke-induced neuroinflammation and hippocampal injury by inhibiting microglial pyroptosis.

PurposeDiabetes and its complications cause a heavy burden of disease worldwide. In recent years, Mendelian randomization (MR) has been widely used to discover the pathogenesis and epidemiology of diseases, as well as to discover new therapeutic targets. Therefore, based on systematic “druggable” genomics, we aim to identify new therapeutic targets for diabetes and analyze its pathophysiological mechanisms to promote its new therapeutic strategies.Material and methodWe used double sample MR to integrate the identified druggable genomics to evaluate the causal effect of quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) expressed by druggable genes in blood on type 1 and 2 diabetes (T1DM and T2DM). Repeat the study using different data sources on diabetes and its complications to verify the identified genes. Not only that, we also use Bayesian co-localization analysis to evaluate the posterior probabilities of different causal variations, shared causal variations, and co-localization probabilities to examine the possibility of genetic confounding. Finally, using diabetes markers with available genome-wide association studies data, we evaluated the causal relationship between established diabetes markers to explore possible mechanisms.ResultOverall, a total of 4,477 unique druggable genes have been gathered. After filtering using methods such as Bonferroni significance (P

Stipa breviflora is a dominant species in the desert steppe of Northern China. Grazing is the main land use pattern of grassland, which could cause a variety of adaptive evolutionary mechanisms in plant community composition as well as individual plant growth and morphological characteristics. However, very little is known about the morphological structure and transcriptional regulation response to different grazing intensities in S. breviflora. In this study, transcriptome and anatomical analyses of S. breviflora under different grazing intensities, including no grazing, moderate grazing, and heavy grazing, were performed. The anatomical analysis results showed that epidermis cells and xylems significantly thicken with grazing intensity, suggesting that grazing results in increasing lignification. Furthermore, the components of cell walls such as lignin, cellulose, hemicellulose, and pectin were all increased dramatically and significantly under both moderate and heavy grazing. Transcriptome analysis showed that the differentially expressed genes related to different grazing intensities were also engaged in plant cell wall formation and in photosynthesis and respiration. In addition, the activities of ATP synthase and Rubisco-activating enzyme increased significantly with enhanced grazing intensity and differed significantly between moderate and heavy grazing intensities. The trends in transcriptome and plant phenotype changes are consistent. Taken together, these results indicated that S. breviflora has evolved a grazing tolerance strategy under long-term grazing conditions, influencing photosynthesis and respiration in terms of its own structure and enzyme activities in the body, to maintain normal life activities under different grazing conditions.

Study region: The Chaohe watershed is Beijing's primary potable water source. Study focus: The initiation of ecological restoration (ER), combined with the rapid acceleration of climate change (CC), has precipitated severe water shortages in North China. The seasonal responses of baseflow (BF), pivotal for sustaining rivers' fundamental flow and ecological equilibrium, to ER and CC are poorly understood. This study provides a precise depiction of the seasonal variations in BF by leveraging multiple separation methodologies. By applying the BFAST algorithm and a comprehensive sensitivity analysis, we unveil the nuanced seasonal patterns of BF adjustments in reaction to ER and CC. New hydrological insights for the region: Baseflow, primarily influenced by the wet season, constituted 64.21% of the annual aggregate. Considerable decreases in BF during the dry (−32.61%) and wet (−68.21%) seasons pose increasing threats to available water resources. The decrease in sub-surface runoff (−1.91 mm per decade) dominated the reduction of dry season BF. Indeed, vegetation regulated seasonal water distribution, maintaining the essential flow throughout the dry season. In the wet season, the reduction in BF acts as a supplemental water source to fulfill the escalating evapotranspiration needs due to afforestation and a drying climate. This study highlights the persistent hydrological consequences of ER and CC on water resources, emphasizing the crucial function of vegetation in baseflow, a key component for ecological restoration and water resource management in water-limited areas.

Rana hanluica: an endemic amphibian of China, is found in the hills and mountains south of the Yangtze River. In this comprehensive study, we collected 162 samples from 14 different localities to delve into the genetic diversity of Rana hanluica using mitochondrial Cytb and nuclear RAG2 as genetic markers. Our findings reveal that the Nanling Mountains, specifically regions like Jiuyi Shan, Jinggang Shan, Mang Shan, and Qiyun Shan, are genetic hotspots harboring remarkable diversity. The research results also indicate that there is gene flow among the various populations of the species, and no distinct population structure has formed, which may be due to migration. Moreover, populations in some regions, as well as the overall population, show signs of a possible genetic bottleneck, which we speculate may have been caused by climate change. However, given the exploratory nature of our study, further investigations are warranted to confirm these observations. Through phylogenetic analyses, we uncovered indications that R. hanluica might have originated within the Nanling region, dispersing along the east-west mountain ranges, with a significant contribution originating from Jiuyi Shan. The genetic distributions uncovered through our research reflect historical migratory patterns, evident in the distinct haplotypes of the RAG2 gene between the western and eastern parts of the studied area. Moreover, Heng Shan and Yangming Shan exhibited unique genetic signatures, possibly influenced by geographic isolation, which has shaped their distinct genotypes. The insights gained from this study hold profound implications for conservation efforts. By identifying regions rich in genetic diversity and crucial gene flow corridors, we can develop more effective conservation strategies. Preserving these genetically diverse areas, especially within the Nanling Mountains, is vital for maintaining the evolutionary potential of R. hanluica. In conclusion, our research has laid a solid foundation for understanding the genetic landscape of R. hanluica, shedding light on its origins, population structures, and evolutionary trajectories. This knowledge will undoubtedly guide future research endeavors and inform conservation strategies for this endemic amphibian.

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to observe, using Footscan analysis, the effect of electromyographic feedback functional electrical stimulation (FES) on the changes in the plantar pressure of drop foot patients.MethodsThis case–control study enrolled 34 stroke patients with foot drop. There were 17 cases received FES for 20 min per day, 5 days per week for 4 weeks (the FES group) and the other 17 cases only received basic rehabilitations (the control group). Before and after 4 weeks, the walking speed, spatiotemporal parameters and plantar pressure were measured.ResultsAfter 4 weeks treatments, Both the FES and control groups had increased walking speed and single stance phase percentage, decreased step length symmetry index (SI), double stance phase percentage and start time of the heel after 4 weeks (p

ABSTRACT: Riemerella anatipestifer (R. anatipestifer) can cause serositis in multiple poultry species, resulting in significant losses. Although R. anatipestifer-caused infections in ducks have been well established, the literature about this disease in geese is rare. Here, we isolated and identified 56 strains of R. anatipestifer from the eastern regions of Hebei Province, China, and further determined their serotypes, antibiotic resistance, and pathogenicity. A total of 75 strains of causative bacteria were isolated from 70 sick geese with serositis. After Gram staining microscopy, PCR, and 16S rDNA sequence analysis, 56 isolates were identified as members of R. anatipestifer and 19 as Escherichia coli (E. coli). The results of serotyping showed that there were 4 serotypes prevalent in the isolate, including serotype 1 (37/56), serotype 2 (9/56), serotype 11 (8/56), and serotype 13 (2/56). The results of antibiotic susceptibility testing revealed that all 56 R. anatipestifer isolates showed varying degrees of multidrug resistance (MDR). A total of 10 antibiotic resistance genes (ARG) were determined in these isolates. Four isolates of different serotypes were selected for pathogenicity examination, and all were able to reproduce serositis-like symptoms in 15-day-old goslings, with neurological symptoms and a 100% mortality rate. Hemorrhagic congestion of the brain tissue, steatosis of the hepatocytes, and disorganization of some cardiac myofibers were observed in R. anatipestifer-infected geese. All these findings will contribute to our insights into the prevalence characteristics, antibiotic resistance profile, and pathogenicity of R. anatipestifer infection in geese in eastern Hebei Province and provide scientific guidance for the treatment and control of this disease.

Abstract This paper presents comprehensive research of the advantages and applicability of various concrete carbonation detection methods. Employing a combination of Phenolphthalein indicator (PI), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray phase analysis (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Quantitative calcium carbonate analysis (CA), a detailed comparison to determine the carbonation depth in the partial carbonation zone of concrete specimens is conducted. Among the quantitative analysis methods, CA measures CaCO3 content based on chemical reactions, while TGA obtains the concentration distribution of Ca(OH)2 and CaCO3. Among qualitative analysis methods, XRD tested the intensity distribution of Ca(OH)2 and CaCO3, while FTIR traced the characteristic peaks of C-O functional groups in a specific spectral range to determine the depth of carbonation of concrete. Results indicate that the depth of carbonation values measured by CA, TGA, XRDA, and FTIR are 2–3 times higher than those measured by PI. This research may provide valuable insights for the design of carbonation detection in concrete.

In order to reduce the production cost of γ-polyglutamic acid (γ-PGA) and realize high-value utilization of renewable resources such as reed, the feasibility of establishing a new fermentation process control strategy for the preparation of γ-PGA using reed hydrolysate as carbon source was explored. Firstly, the effects of cellulase dosage and substrate concentration on reed hydrolysis were studied; Secondly, the process of fermentation and production of γ-PGA from reed hydrolysate was optimized by segmented culture and DO feed-back control strategies. The results show that after pretreatment, the total sugar concentration of reed could reach (7664±174)g/L under the condition of 10 FPU/g (substrate) enzyme dosage and 10% substrate addition; the reed hydrolysate was produced γ-PGA by segmented dissolved oxygen feedback-batch feed fermentation culture, and the final yield could reach (4672±118])]g/L, with the production efficiency increasing by 4606% compared with batch fermentation. The use of reed hydrolysate for batch fermentation of γ-PGA is industrially feasible, which helps to reduce the raw material cost of its commercial production.

In this study, finite element (FE) simulation by the software Abaqus was relied on to investigate the roll forming process of a wheel rim made of an innovative dual-phase steel, i.e., DP590, after flash butt welding (FBW). In the simulation, an FE model was generated, including the design of the dies for flaring, three-roll forming, and expansion, and detailed key processing parameters based on practical production of the selected DP590. Combined with the microstructures and properties of the weld zone (WZ) and heat-affected zones (HAZs) after FBW, the distribution of stress/strain and the change in thickness of the base metal (BM), WZ and HAZs were analyzed, and compared in the important stages of roll forming. Theoretically, the variation in the microstructure and the corresponding stress–strain behaviors of the BM, WZ, and HAZs after FBW have led to the thickness reduction of DP590 that originated from softening behaviors occurring at the region of subcritical HAZs (SCHAZs), and a small amount of tempered martensite has evidently reduced the hardness and strength of the SCHAZ. Meanwhile, the distribution of stress/strain has been influenced to some extent. Further, the study includes the influence of the friction coefficient on the forming quality of the wheel rim to guarantee the simulation accuracy in practical applications. In sum, the dual-phase steel has to be carefully applied to the wheel rim, which needs to experience the processes of FBW and roll forming, focusing on the performance of SCHAZs.

Underwater object detection is essential for the advancement of automated aquaculture operations. Addressing the challenges of low detection accuracy and insufficient generalization capabilities for underwater targets, this paper focuses on the development of a novel detection method tailored to such environments. We introduce the RTL-YOLOv8n model, specifically designed to enhance the precision and efficiency of detecting objects underwater. This model incorporates advanced feature-extraction mechanisms—RetBlock and triplet attention—that significantly improve its ability to discern fine details amidst complex underwater scenes. Additionally, the model employs a lightweight coupled detection head (LCD-Head), which reduces its computational requirements by 31.6% compared to the conventional YOLOv8n, without sacrificing performance. Enhanced by the Focaler–MPDIoU loss function, RTL-YOLOv8n demonstrates superior capability in detecting challenging targets, showing a 1.5% increase in mAP@0.5 and a 5.2% improvement in precision over previous models. These results not only confirm the effectiveness of RTL-YOLOv8n in complex underwater environments but also highlight its potential applicability in other settings requiring efficient and precise object detection. This research provides valuable insights into the development of aquatic life detection and contributes to the field of smart aquatic monitoring systems.

The effects of face immersion and concurrent exercise on the diving reflex evoked by breath-hold (BH) differ, yet little is known about the combined effects of different BH conditions on aerobic fitness in elite athletes. This study aimed to assess the acute effects of various BH conditions on 18 male elite rugby players (age: 23.5 ± 1.8 years; height: 183.3 ± 3.4 cm; body mass: 84.8 ± 8.5 kg) and identify the BH condition eliciting the greatest aerobic fitness activation. Participants underwent five warm-up conditions: baseline regular breathing, dynamic dry BH (DD), static dry BH (SD), wet dynamic BH (WD), and wet static BH (WS). Significant differences (p < 0.05) were found in red blood cells (RBCs), red blood cell volume (RGB), and hematocrit (HCT) pre- and post-warm-up. Peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) and relative oxygen uptake (VO2/kgpeak) varied significantly across conditions, with BH groups showing notably higher values than the regular breathing group (p < 0.05). Interaction effects of facial immersion and movement conditions were significant for VO2peak, VO2/kgpeak, and the cardiopulmonary optimal point (p < 0.05). Specifically, VO2peak and peak stroke volume (SVpeak) were significantly higher in the DD group compared to that in other conditions. Increases in VO2peak were strongly correlated with changes in RBCs and HCT induced by DD warm-up (r∆RBC = 0.84, r∆HCT = 0.77, p < 0.01). In conclusion, DD BH warm-up appears to optimize subsequent aerobic performance in elite athletes.

The extraction of typical features of underwater target signals and excellent recognition algorithms are the keys to achieving underwater acoustic target recognition of divers. This paper proposes a feature extraction method for diver signals: frequency−domain multi−sub−band energy (FMSE), aiming to achieve accurate recognition of diver underwater acoustic targets by passive sonar. The impact of the presence or absence of targets, different numbers of targets, different signal−to−noise ratios, and different detection distances on this method was studied based on experimental data under different conditions, such as water pools and lakes. It was found that the FMSE method has the best robustness and performance compared with two other signal feature extraction methods: mel frequency cepstral coefficient filtering and gammatone frequency cepstral coefficient filtering. Combined with the commonly used recognition algorithm of support vector machines, the FMSE method can achieve a comprehensive recognition accuracy of over 94% for frogman underwater acoustic targets. This indicates that the FMSE method is suitable for underwater acoustic recognition of diver targets.

Large-scale afforestation poses threats to water resources security in water-limited areas, and the water availability affects plants growth and mortality. Shelterbelts degradation inevitably causes stand structure changes, which affect the soil water content (SWC). In this study, we used high-density sampling method to study the Populus simonii Carr stands located in the only 6.3 km2 Boluosu forest farm in the semiarid region of northern China, including healthy and degraded stands, and cropland and grassland plots as controls. The vertical profiles (0–200 cm) of SWC was measured in each plot in 73 selected locations, soil characteristics and stand structure of typical Populus simonii Carr were measured. The main purpose was to analyze the impact of the Populus simonii Carr degradation on the soil water vertical variation and to combine this information with stand structure and soil characteristics to analyze all their effects together. The results showed that compared with cropland (254.7 ± 14.96 mm) and grassland (237.9 ± 12.62 mm), the soil water storage of healthy Populus simonii Carr (198.91 ± 8.47 mm) decreased by 21.9 % and 16.4 %, respectively. The shallow layer (0–60 cm) SWC increased significantly with degradation degree (P

Electrochemical processing, due to its unique material removal mechanism compared to mechanical processing, often results in significantly different micro-morphologies. It is widely used in areas such as aerospace component processing, surface finishing, passivation, micro-structure mold processing, etc. The complexity of alloy steel composition makes uniform etching difficult to achieve, and the post-etch micro-morphology is also complex, making it challenging to describe and analyze. Therefore, it is difficult to analyze the surface morphology of electrochemical etching under different parameters. In this study, a self-developed electrochemical etching device with adjustable DC voltage, pulse width voltage, and pulse width positive and negative voltage output was used. Different parameters of pulse voltage were used to etch the surface of 42CrMo alloy steel. Due to the strong relationship between surface roughness parameters and the chosen measurement scale, as well as the surface morphology and waviness errors introduced by specimen preparation and etching processes, a wavelet filtering method was used to remove the low frequency components in the surface morphology, and only the surface roughness part was retained for fractal parameter calculation and analysis. The research showed that fractal analysis can also be applied to analyze the surface morphology after electrochemical etching. Pulse voltages with characteristic voltages, characteristic pulse frequencies, and duty ratios can achieve better surface quality during positive pulse etching. Positive and negative pulse etching can obtain better surface morphology than positive pulse etching, but the etching amount is lower, making it suitable for precision finishing.

IntrodctionAeromonas veronii is a significant pathogen to various aquatic life. Infections in fish can lead to high mortality rates, causing substantial economic losses in aquaculture. Vaccination is proposed as a substitute for antibiotics in aquaculture to decrease disease-related mortality and morbidity. Our study previously constructed a hisJ-deleted strain of A. veronii, which provided protective effect to Loach.MethodsTo further assess the vaccine’s applicability, this study evaluated its genetic stability and safety, and the immune protective effects in Carassius auratus through four distinct administration routes: intraperitoneal injection, intramuscular injection, oral administration, and immersion, to determine the efficacy of these administration routes.ResultsThe results showed that the vaccine remained genetically stable after 45 generations. Immunization via these administration routes was safe for Carassius auratus, with intraperitoneal and intramuscular injections causing stronger adverse reactions. Immersion immunization resulted in mild adverse reactions, and no significant adverse reactions were observed following oral immunization. Immunizing Carassius auratus at safe concentrations via these routes enhanced the phagocytic activity in serum, increased the levels of non-specific immune-related enzymes (ACP, AKP, C3, C4, LZM, SOD, and IgM), and improved specific serum antibody levels. It also elevated levels of cytokines related to inflammatory responses (IL-1β, IL-10, TNF-α, TGF-β) in organ tissues (liver, spleen, kidney, mid-post intestine, and gills). The survival rates of Carassius auratus were measured after challenging with the virulent strain A. veronii TH0426, resulting in the relative survival rates of 64% for Intraperitoneal vaccine group, 56% for Intramuscular vaccine group, 52% for oral vaccine group, and 48% for immersion vaccine group. Analysis of bacterial load in the liver, spleen, and kidney post-challenge showed a decreasing trend in the control group, indicating that the vaccine strain ΔhisJ could gradually restrict the rapid proliferation of bacteria in these tissues, thereby providing a certain level of immune protection against A. veronii.DiscussionIn brief, the vaccine strain ΔhisJ can serve as a safe live attenuated vaccine for Carassius auratus, and this study lays the foundation for the development of live attenuated vaccines against Aeromonas veronii.

Globally intensified lake eutrophication, attributed to excessive anthropogenic nitrogen loading, emerges as a significant driver of submerged vegetation degradation. Consequently, the impact of nitrogen on the decline of submerged macrophytes has received increasing attention. However, a functional trait-based approach to exploring the response of submerged macrophytes to nitrogen loading and its environmental feedback mechanism was unclear. Our study utilized two different growth forms of submerged macrophytes (canopy-forming Myriophyllum spicatum, and rosette-forming Vallisneria natans) to established “submerged macrophytes-water–sediment” microcosms. We assessed the influence of nitrogen loading, across four targeted total nitrogen concentrations (original control, 2, 5, 10 mg/L), on plant traits, water parameters, sediment properties, enzyme activities, and microbial characteristics. Our findings revealed that high nitrogen (10 mg/L) adversely impacted the relative growth rate of fresh biomass and total chlorophyll content in canopy-forming M. spicatum, while the chlorophyll a/b and free amino acid content increased. On the contrary, the growth and photosynthetic traits of resource-conservative V. natans were not affected by nitrogen loading. Functional traits (growth, photosynthetic, and stoichiometric) of M. spicatum but not V. natans exhibited significant correlations with environmental variables. Nitrogen loading significantly increased the concentration of nitrogen components in overlying water and pore water. The presence of submerged macrophytes significantly reduced the ammonia nitrogen and total nitrogen both in overlying water and pore water, and decreased total organic carbon in pore water. Nitrogen loading significantly inhibited sediment extracellular enzyme activities, but the planting of submerged macrophytes mitigated their negative effects. Furthermore, rhizosphere bacterial interactions were less compact compared to bare control, while eukaryotic communities exhibited increased complexity and connectivity. Path modeling indicated that submerged macrophytes mitigated the direct effects of nitrogen loading on overlying water and amplified the indirect effects on pore water, while also attenuating the direct negative effects of pore water on extracellular enzymes. The findings indicated that the restoration of submerged vegetation can mitigate eutrophication resulting from increased nitrogen loading through species-specific changes in functional traits and direct or indirect feedback mechanisms in the water–sediment system.

This paper presents a new fabrication method utilizing lost foam casting as a processing technique to synthesize high-strength and ultra-wear-resistant particle reinforced iron matrix composites. The composite material incorporates large-sized WC-11Co reinforcement. The composite exhibits a multiphase microstructure composed of WC-11Co, α-Fe, and carbide precipitates that extend at different length scales. The precipitation of large-sized M3W3C (M = Fe, Co) type carbides at the WC-11Co/matrix interface is well controlled. A favorable reaction layer is formed between WC-11Co and the matrix. Nano-precipitates are pinned within the reaction layer, exhibiting a high degree of coherence with the iron matrix. The stress field at the interface is complex due to thermal stress, phase transformation stress, and microstress. The stress state between WC-11Co and the matrix consists of compressive residual stress-tensile residual stress-compressive residual stress, with compressive residual stress far exceeding tensile residual stress. The WC-11Co/Fe0.35C5CrMn composite exhibits outstanding compressive strength of 2.18 GPa and a fracture strain of approximately 24.6 %. Moreover, the composite demonstrates excellent wear resistance, with a threefold improvement compared to the matrix under severe wear conditions. The following mechanisms contribute to the enhanced mechanical properties: multiphase material system, coherent multiscale interfaces, grain refinement, dislocation strengthening, and residual stress strengthening.

Forests play a key role in the mitigation of global warming and provide many other vital ecosystem goods and services. However, as forest continues to vanish at an alarming rate from the surface of the planet, the world desperately needs knowledge on what contributes to forest preservation and restoration. Migration, a hallmark of globalization, is widely recognized as a main driver of forest recovery and poverty alleviation. Here, we show that remittance from migrants reinforces forest recovery that would otherwise be unlikely with mere migration, realizing the additionality of payments for ecosystem services for China's largest reforestation policy, the Conversion of Cropland to Forest Program (CCFP). Guided by the framework that integrates telecoupling and coupled natural and human systems, we investigate forest-livelihood dynamics under the CCFP through the lens of rural out-migration and remittance using both satellite remote sensing imagery and household survey data in two representative sites of rural China. Results show that payments from the CCFP significantly increases the probability of sending remittance by out-migrants to their origin households. We observe substantial forest regeneration and greening surrounding households receiving remittance but forest decline and browning in proximity to households with migrants but not receiving remittance, as measured by forest coverage and the Enhanced Vegetation Index derived from space-borne remotely sensed data. The primary mechanism is that remittance reduces the reliance of households on natural capital from forests, particularly fuelwood, allowing forests near the households to recover. The shares of the estimated ecological and economic additionality induced by remittance are 2.0% (1.4%∼3.8%) and 9.7% (5.0%∼15.2%), respectively, to the baseline of the reforested areas enrolled in CCFP and the payments received by the participating households. Remittance-facilitated forest regeneration amounts to 12.7% (6.0%∼18.0%) of the total new forest gained during the 2003-2013 in China. Our results demonstrate that remittance constitutes a telecoupling mechanism between rural areas and cities over long distances, influencing the local social-ecological gains that the forest policy intended to stimulate. Thus, supporting remittance-sending migrants in cities can be an effective global warming mitigation strategy.

Continuum manipulators can conform to curvilinear paths and manipulate objects in complex environments, which makes it emerging to be applied in minimally invasive surgery (MIS). However, different and controllable operating stiffness of the continuum manipulator is required during different stages of surgery to achieve safe access or stable and precise operation. This work proposes an operating stiffness controller (OSC) for the typical tendon-driven continuum manipulator based on the variable impedance control method with Lagrangian dynamic modeling. This controller can adjust the operating stiffness by modifying the driving forces along the driving tendons of the continuum manipulator without changing its material or structure. The proposed OSC converts the damping and stiffness matrices of the impedance control into variable parameters. This merit allows it to dynamically adjust the operating stiffness of the continuum manipulator according to the desired constant or time-varying stiffness. Furthermore, the OSC stability can be proven based on a Lyapunov function, and its stiffness control performances have been analyzed and evaluated in both simulations and experiments. The OSC controller generated average relevant error values of 7.82% and 3.09% for the operating stiffness control experiments with constant and time-varying desired stiffness, respectively. These experimental results indicate that the OSC has high accuracy, stability, and strong robustness in the operating stiffness control tasks.

Background: Chukrasia tabularisis, a well-known tropical tree native to southeastern China, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, and contains large amounts of limonoids and triterpenoids. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the potential anti-inflammatory activity of limonoids from C. tabularis on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-mediated RAW264.7 cells. Methods and results: Using a bioassay-guided approach, the chemical fraction with high anti-inflammatory activity was found and its chemical constituents were investigated. Phytochemical studies on active extracts resulted in the separation of three novel phragmalin limonoids (1–3), together with two known limonoids (4–5) and 11 tirucallane triterpenes (6–16). The activity of these isolated compounds in the production of nitric oxide (NO) on LPS-reated macrophages was evaluated. Limonoid 2 indicated significant anti-inflammatory activities with IC50 value of 4.58 μM. Limonoid 2 notably inhibited the production of NO, interleukin- 6 and tumor necrosis factor-α on macrophage. Signal transduction and activation of STAT and NF-κB activators were effectively blocked by limonoid 2. Conclusions: These results indicate that limonoid 2 has an anti-inflammatory effect by the inhibiting JAK2/STAT3, iNOS/eNOS, and NF-κB signaling pathways and regulating inflammatory mediators.

Abstract Functional connectivity hierarchy is an important principle in the process of brain functional organization and an important feature reflecting brain development. However, atypical brain network hierarchy organization in Rolandic epilepsy have not been systematically investigated. We examined connectivity alteration with age and its relation to epileptic incidence, cognition, or underlying genetic factors in 162 cases of Rolandic epilepsy and 117 typically developing children, by measuring fMRI multi-axis functional connectivity gradients. Rolandic epilepsy is characterized by contracting and slowing expansion of the functional connectivity gradients, highlighting the atypical age-related change of the connectivity hierarchy in segregation properties. The gradient alterations are relevant to seizure incidence, cognition, and connectivity deficit, and development-associated genetic basis. Collectively, our approach provides converging evidence for atypical connectivity hierarchy as a system-level substrate of Rolandic epilepsy, suggesting this is a disorder of information processing across multiple functional domains, and established a framework for large-scale brain hierarchical research.

Cancer is one of the deadliest diseases to humanity. There is significant progress in treating this disease, but developing some drugs that can fight this disease remains a challenge in the field of medical research. Thirteen new 1,2,3-triazole linked tetrahydrocurcumin derivatives were synthesized by click reaction, including a 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction of tetrahydrocurcumin baring mono-alkyne with azides in good yields, and their in vitro anticancer activity against four cancer cell lines, including human cervical carcinoma (HeLa), human lung adenocarcinoma (A549), human hepatoma carcinoma (HepG2), and human colon carcinoma (HCT-116) were investigated using MTT(3-(4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetraz-olium bromide) assay. The newly synthesized compounds had their structures identified using NMR HRMS and IR techniques. Some of prepared compounds, including compounds 4g and 4k, showed potent cytotoxic activity against four cancer cell lines compared to the positive control of cisplatin and tetrahydrocurcumin. Compound 4g exhibited anticancer activity with a IC50 value of 1.09 ± 0.17 μM against human colon carcinoma HCT-116 and 45.16 ± 0.92 μM against A549 cell lines compared to the positive controls of tetrahydrocurcumin and cisplatin. Moreover, further biological examination in HCT-116 cells showed that compound 4g can arrest the cell cycle at the G1 phase. A docking study revealed that the potential mechanism by which 4g exerts its anti-colon cancer effect may be through inhabiting the binding of APC–Asef. Compound 4g can be used as a promising lead for further exploration of potential anticancer agents.

Landslide susceptibility denotes the likelihood of a disaster event under specific conditions. The assessment of landslide susceptibility has transitioned from qualitative to quantitative methods. With the integration of information technology in geological hazard analysis, a range of quantitative models for assessing landslide susceptibility has emerged and is now widely used. To compare and evaluate the accuracy of these models, this study focuses on Xupu County in Hunan Province, applying several models, including the CF model, FR model, CF-LR coupled model, FR-LR coupled model, SVM model, and RF model, to assess regional landslide susceptibility. ROC curves are used to evaluate the reliability of the model’s predictions. The evaluation results reveal that the CF model (AUC = 0.756), FR model (AUC = 0.764), CF-LR model (AUC = 0.776), FR-LR model (AUC = 0.781), SVM model (AUC = 0.814), and RF model (AUC = 0.912) all have AUC values within the range of 0.7–0.9, indicating that the overall accuracy of the models is good and can provide a reference for landslide susceptibility zoning in the study area. Among these, the Random Forest model demonstrates the best accuracy for landslide susceptibility zoning in the study area. By extracting the extremely high susceptibility zones from the landslide susceptibility zonings obtained by six models, a comparative analysis of model adaptability was conducted. The results indicate that the Random Forest model has the best adaptability under specific conditions in Xupu County.