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Abstract Background The three-amino-acid-loop-extension (TALE) is a ubiquitous homeodomain transcription factor among plant species involved in regulating plant growth, development, and environmental responses. However, this has not been systematically analyzed or reported in sorghum. Results In this study, 23 SbTALE genes were identified using bioinformatics and other methods at the genome level of sorghum, classified into two families, KNOX and BEL1-like family, and localized on ten chromosomes. One pair of tandem duplicated and seven pairs of segmentally duplicated genes were found, and the conserved motifs of SbTALEs among the same subfamilies were highly conserved, with highly conserved gene structures. SbTALEs genes have the most collinear genes with monocotyledonous Zea mays and are more closely related; SbTALEs have undergone purification and diversification selection in the evolutionary process. Overall, except for SbTALE21 and SbTALE23, the expression of the other six SbTALEs was higher in the stems, whereas the expression of SbTALE21 and SbTALE23 was higher in the leaves. In sorghum grain development, the lowest relative expression of SbTALEs was observed in grains in the late stage, and the expression of SbTALE21 was higher in grains in the early stage and husks in the late stage. In addition, SbTALE14 and SbTALE21 showed higher expression in the roots and stems under the cold treatment, and SbTALE02 and SbTALE12 showed higher expression in the roots and stems under the PEG treatment. Under the four hormone treatments, the expression of eight SbTALEs was relatively low in stems, the expression of SbTALE13 was higher in leaves than in roots and stems, and the expression of SbTALE23 was higher under the MeJA and SA treatments. Conclusion This study lays a theoretical foundation for the study of the biological function and mechanism of SbTALE genes and is of great significance for the mining of resistance genes and trait improvement.

Abstract Comprehensive and non-invasive preoperative molecular diagnosis is important for prognostic and therapy decision-making in adult-type diffuse gliomas. We employed a deep learning method for automatic segmentation of brain gliomas directly from conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of the tumor core and peritumoral edema regions based on available glioma MRI data provided in the BraTS2021. Three-dimensional volumes of interest were segmented from 424 cases of glioma imaging data retrospectively obtained from two medical centers using the segmentation method and radiomic features were extracted. We developed a subtype prediction model based on extracted radiomic features and analyzed significance and correlations between glioma morphological characteristics and pathological features using data from patients with adult-type diffuse glioma. The automated segmentation achieved mean Dice scores of 0.884 and 0.889 for the tumor core and whole tumor, respectively. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the prediction of adult-type diffuse gliomas subtypes was 0.945. “Glioblastoma, IDH-wildtype”, “Astrocytoma, IDH-mutant”, and “Oligodendroglioma, IDH-mutant, 1p/19q-coded” showed AUCs of 0.96, 0.914, and 0.961, respectively, for subtype prediction. Glioma morphological characteristics, molecular and pathological levels, and clinical data showed significant differences and correlations. An automatic segmentation model for gliomas based on 3D U-Nets was developed, and the prediction model for gliomas built using the parameters obtained from the automatic segmentation model showed high overall performance.

Abstract Background The aim of this study was to assess the prognostic significance of serum direct bilirubin (DBIL) for patients newly diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). Methods The clinical, laboratory, and follow-up data of MDS patients were collected, and the associations of DBIL levels with overall survival (OS) and leukemia-free survival (LFS) were analyzed. Result In total, 262 MDS patients were assigned to the high DBIL level group or the normal DBIL level group in the retrospective study. High DBIL was associated with older age, reduced hemoglobin, higher levels of β2-microglobin, lactate dehydrogenase, and serum ferritin, along with the number of co-mutations (> 1) and a higher frequency of ASXL1, KIT, and KRAS mutations. Multivariate analyses found that high DBIL level was an independent adverse predictor for OS (p = 0.002, hazard ratio = 2.723, 95%CI = 1.442–5.143) but not for LFS (p = 0.057, hazard ratio = 1.678, 95%CI = 0.986–2.857). A novel nomogram based on DBIL, sex, age, β2-microglobulin, lactate dehydrogenase, the Revised International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS-R) was constructed, which demonstrated superior accuracy compared with the IPSS-R (C-index, 0.790 vs. 0.731, respectively). Conclusion An elevated DBIL level was identified as an independent adverse prognostic factor for MDS patients. An individualized prediction model was established and validated to improve prediction of OS and LFS.

Abstract The seismic failure mechanism of underground structures showing structural collapse is attributed to the deformation incompatibility between the central columns and the sidewalls, especially the insufficient deformation capacity of the central columns. Therefore, the approaches to improve the seismic performance of underground structures mainly aim at avoiding the damage of central columns. This paper presents a comparative study on the seismic performance of underground structures with the central columns retrofitted with different numbers of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastics (CFRP) layers. Seismic capacity of the CFRP retrofitting reinforced concrete (RC) columns was explored in detail through experimental and numerical approaches. Then numerical models were built and verified to simulate the behaviors of the CFRP retrofitting RC columns, and the seismic performance of the CFRP retrofitting underground structures was numerically simulated. Based on the numerical results, the damage of the CFRP retrofitting underground structures was calculated, and damage classification illustrated that the seismic performance of underground structures was enhanced remarkably. Finally, parametric studies were conducted to discuss about how the number of CFRP layers and the earthquake intensity affect the earthquake-induced damage of underground structures. Conclusions from this study could be referenced for seismic retrofitting of existing underground structures.

Abstract Ambient-condition acetylene hydrogenation to ethylene (AC-AHE) is a promising process for ethylene production with minimal additional energy input, yet remains a great challenge due to the difficulty in the coactivation of acetylene and H2 at room temperature. Herein, we report a highly efficient AC-AHE process over robust sulfur-confined atomic Pd species on tungsten sulfide surface. The catalyst exhibits over 99% acetylene conversion with a high ethylene selectivity of 70% at 25 oC, and a record space-time yield of ethylene of 1123 molC2H4 molPd −1 h−1 under ambient conditions, which is nearly four times that of the typical Pd1Ag3/Al2O3 catalyst, and exhibiting superior stability of over 500 h. We demonstrate that the confinement of Pd-S coordination induces positively-charged atomic Pdδ+, which not only facilitates C2H2 hydrogenation but also promotes C2H4 desorption, thereby enabling a high conversion of C2H2 to C2H4 at room temperature while suppressing over-hydrogenation to C2H6.

AIM: To compare the safety and clinical outcomes of subconjunctival trypsin and dexamethasone (DEX) injections in the treatment of anterior chamber fibrin exudates in eyes with globe rupture following primary wound repair and vitrectomy. METHODS: A retrospective analysis included 42 males and 10 females (mean age 46.0±6.0y, range 34 to 58y) who underwent primary wound sutures and vitrectomy for globe rupture. Patients with pupil-covered fibrinous exudate or/and membrane in the anterior chamber were treated. On the first postoperative day, subconjunctival injections of either 5000 units (0.4 mL) of trypsin solution (n=25) or 0.5 mL (1 mg) DEX (n=27) were administered to accelerate exudate absorption. Efficacy was assessed by observing break time and partial absorption of the fibrin exudate membrane. Safety and comfort were evaluated by monitoring intraocular pressure (IOP), allergy, pain, and foreign body sensation. RESULTS: Both groups achieved 1/3 absorption of the anterior chamber fibrin exudate membrane, but the trypsin group exhibited shorter break time and partial absorption time compared to the DEX group (P

To address the global climate crisis, achieving energy transitions is imperative. Establishing a new-type power system is a key measure to achieve CO2 emissions peaking and carbon neutrality. The core goal is to transform renewable energy resources into primary power sources. The large-scale integration of high proportions of renewable energy sources and power electronic devices will dramatically change the operational mechanisms and control strategies of power systems. Existing wind and solar converters mostly adopt the grid-following control mode, which leads to significant challenges in system security and stability as it is insufficient to support the frequency and voltage of the grid. On the other hand, grid- forming control technology (GFM) can provide voltage and frequency support for the system, and thus becomes an effective measure to improve the inertia and damping characteristics of power systems. This paper illustrates the principles, control strategies, equipment types, application scenarios, and project implementation of grid-forming technology. The simulation and analysis based on a renewable-dominated real new-type power system show that GFM can significantly enhance the frequency and voltage support capacity of the power system, improve renewable energy accommodation capacity and grid transmission capacity under weak grid conditions, and play an important role in enhancing the stability and power supply reliability of renewable-dominated new-type power systems.

For the rapid analysis of the amoun of 90Sr in medical yttrium[90Y] chloride solution， 90Sr was separated from the yttrium[90Y] chloride solution by DGA resin,and measured by a liquid scintillation counter. The acidity and volume the elution were also studied. The results show that this method provides stable and reliable detection results，good linearity，and fully meets the detection requirements of 90Sr with a limit of

Abstract To optimize the current college sports data information management system, this study combines the Apriori association rule algorithm with web application development technology to upgrade the management system. Firstly, this study explores novel log mining techniques in genetic algorithms and web application development technology. Secondly, by integrating log mining techniques to optimize the Apriori algorithm, associations between sports data and information are discovered. Through the optimized algorithm, this study identifies key association rules of sports data information and validates the optimized system’s reliability and effectiveness through experiments. The experimental results show that the running time of the traditional Apriori algorithm exponentially grows with the increase in information volume, while the optimized execution efficiency is improved by approximately 10–15%. Additionally, the average retrieval accuracy of this optimized system can reach 98.3%, although the retrieval time also increased by 23%. Therefore, the technology and algorithms proposed in this study have certain application value in the sports information management system and contribute to the optimization of data information management in this field.

Abstract Neural crest cells (NCCs) are central to vertebrate embryonic development, giving rise to diverse cell types with unique migratory and differentiation capacities. This study examines the molecular characteristics of cranial neural crest cell (CNCC)-derived mesenchymal cells, specifically those from teeth which in deer show continuous but limited growth, and antlers, which exhibit remarkable regenerative capabilities. Here, through single-cell RNA sequencing analysis, we uncover shared gene expression profiles between adult antlerogenic and dental mesenchymal cells, indicating common developmental pathways. We identify a striking resemblance in transcriptomic features between antlerogenic progenitor cells and dental pulp mesenchymal cells. Comparative analysis of CNCC-derived and non-CNCC-derived mesenchymal cell pools across species reveals core signature genes associated with CNCCs and their derivatives, delineating essential connections between CNCCs and CNCC-derived adult mesenchymal pools. Furthermore, whole-genome DNA methylation analysis unveils hypomethylation of CNCC derivate signature genes in regenerative antlerogenic periosteum, implying a role in maintaining multipotency. These findings offer crucial insights into the developmental biology and regenerative potential of CNCC-derived mesenchymal cells, laying a foundation for innovative therapeutic strategies in tissue regeneration.

Abstract Background Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) can prevent, diagnose, and treat a variety of complex human diseases, and it is crucial to establish a method to efficiently predict lncRNA-disease associations. Results In this paper, we propose a prediction method for the lncRNA-disease association relationship, named LDAGM, which is based on the Graph Convolutional Autoencoder and Multilayer Perceptron model. The method first extracts the functional similarity and Gaussian interaction profile kernel similarity of lncRNAs and miRNAs, as well as the semantic similarity and Gaussian interaction profile kernel similarity of diseases. It then constructs six homogeneous networks and deeply fuses them using a deep topology feature extraction method. The fused networks facilitate feature complementation and deep mining of the original association relationships, capturing the deep connections between nodes. Next, by combining the obtained deep topological features with the similarity network of lncRNA, disease, and miRNA interactions, we construct a multi-view heterogeneous network model. The Graph Convolutional Autoencoder is employed for nonlinear feature extraction. Finally, the extracted nonlinear features are combined with the deep topological features of the multi-view heterogeneous network to obtain the final feature representation of the lncRNA-disease pair. Prediction of the lncRNA-disease association relationship is performed using the Multilayer Perceptron model. To enhance the performance and stability of the Multilayer Perceptron model, we introduce a hidden layer called the aggregation layer in the Multilayer Perceptron model. Through a gate mechanism, it controls the flow of information between each hidden layer in the Multilayer Perceptron model, aiming to achieve optimal feature extraction from each hidden layer. Conclusions Parameter analysis, ablation studies, and comparison experiments verified the effectiveness of this method, and case studies verified the accuracy of this method in predicting lncRNA-disease association relationships.

Abstract Background Both microcoils and hook-wires are commonly utilized for preoperative pulmonary nodule localization due to their convenience, but it remains unclear which one should be prioritized for recommendation. Aims To compare the safety and efficacy of microcoils and hook-wires for pulmonary nodule localization. Methods From January 2021 to December 2021, 310 consecutive patients (113 males and 197 females) with 341 pulmonary nodules who underwent CT-guided microcoil or hook-wire localization prior to video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) at our center were retrospectively included in this study. There were 161 patients in the microcoil group and 149 patients in the hook-wire group. The successful localization rate, complication rate, radiation exposure, and medical costs were compared between the two groups. Results A total of 341 pulmonary nodules were localized, with a success rate of 99% (180/184) in the microcoil group and 93% (146/157) in the hook-wire group, respectively. All patients successfully underwent VATS. Multivariate analysis revealed that hook-wire localization, shorter needle depth into the lung tissue and the longer waiting time from localization to VATS were the risk factors for the localization failure. The incidences of pneumothorax in the microcoil group and hook-wire group were 34.8% (56/161) and 34.9% (52/149), respectively (P = 0.983). The incidences of pneumorrhagia were 13% (24/184) and 46.5% (73/157), respectively (P = 0.000). Multivariate analysis revealed that hook-wire localization and greater depth of needle penetration into lung tissue were risk factors for pneumorrhagia. Conclusion Microcoil localization of pulmonary nodules is superior to hook-wire localization in terms of efficacy and safety. This finding provides insight into priority and broader promotion of microcoil localization.

Abstract Background To investigate the values of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) for the treatment response evaluation in pancreatic cancer (PC) patients receiving neoadjuvant therapy (NAT). Methods This study included 103 NAT patients with histologically proven PC. ADC maps were generated using monoexponential diffusion-weighted imaging (b values: 50, 800 s/mm2). Tumors’ minimum, maximum, and mean ADCs were measured and compared pre- and post-NAT. Variations in ADC values measured between pre- and post-NAT completion for NAT methods (chemotherapy, chemoradiotherapy), tumor locations (head/neck, body/tail), tumor regression grade (TRG) levels (0–2, 3), N stages (N0, N1/N2) and tumor resection margin status (R0, R1), were further analyzed. Results The minimum, maximum, and mean ADC values all increased dramatically after NAT, rising from 23.4 to 25.4% (all p

Abstract Photovoltaic development has played a crucial role in mitigating the energy crisis and addressing global climate change. However, it has also had significant impacts on the ecological environment. To ensure the sustainable growth of the photovoltaic industry, it is essential to establish an indicator system to assess the ecological and environmental effects of photovoltaic development. This study utilizes the Driving-Pressure–Status–Impact-Response (DPSIR) framework to create an indicator system for evaluating the ecological and environmental effects of desert photovoltaic development. The study evaluates the ecological and environmental effects at the on-site (WPS), transitional zone (TPS), and off-site (OPS) areas of the Qinghai Gonghe Photovoltaic Park in China. The entropy weight method was utilized to calculate indicator weights, while the evaluation model and indicators were transformed uniformly to obtain standardized scores for ecological and environmental effects. and conducting a thorough analysis of the distribution characteristics and factors influencing the evaluation indicators’ scores. Overall, the large-scale development of desert photovoltaics in Gonghe County has had a positive impact on the ecological environment. The WPS had better ecological and environmental conditions than did the TPS and OPS, and the ecological and environmental evaluation levels of the WPS were categorized as “general” (0.439), while the ecological and environmental effect evaluation levels of the TPS (0.286) and OPS (0.28) were both “poor”, indicating significant room for improvement. Moreover, all indicators in the scheme layer, which are used to evaluate ecological and environmental quality, yielded higher scores for the WPS than for the TPS and OPS, demonstrating that photovoltaic development has a positive effect on desert area ecology and the environment.

Abstract The reverse water gas shift reaction can be considered as a promising route to mitigate global warming by converting CO2 into syngas in a large scale, while it is still challenging for non-Cu-based catalysts to break the trade-off between activity and selectivity. Here, the relatively high loading of Ni species is highly dispersed on hydroxylated TiO2 through the strong Ni and −OH interactions, thereby inducing the formation of rich and stable Ni clusters (~1 nm) on anatase TiO2 during the reverse water gas shift reaction. This Ni cluster/TiO2 catalyst shows a simultaneous high CO2 conversion and high CO selectivity. Comprehensive characterizations and theoretical calculations demonstrate Ni cluster/TiO2 interfacial sites with strong CO2 activation capacity and weak CO adsorption are responsible for its unique catalytic performances. This work disentangles the activity-selectivity trade-off of the reverse water gas shift reaction, and emphasizes the importance of metal−OH interactions on surface.

Abstract Powdery mildew, caused by Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici (Bgt), reduces wheat yields and grain quality, thus posing a significant threat to global food security. Wild relatives of wheat serve as valuable resources for resistance to powdery mildew. Here, the powdery mildew resistance gene Pm6Sl is cloned from the wild wheat species Aegilops longissima. It encodes a nucleotide-binding leucine-rich repeat (NLR) protein featuring a CC-BED module formed by a zinc finger BED (Znf-BED) domain integrated into the coiled-coil (CC) domain. The function of Pm6Sl is validated via mutagenesis, gene silencing, and transgenic assays. In addition, we develop a resistant germplasm harbouring Pm6Sl in a very small segment with no linkage drag along with the diagnostic gene marker pm6sl-1 to facilitate Pm6Sl deployment in wheat breeding programs. The cloning of Pm6Sl, a resistance gene with BED-NLR architecture, will increase our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying BED-NLR-mediated resistance to various pathogens.

Abstract Background Spinal cord injury (SCI) often leads to a loss of motor and sensory function. Axon regeneration and outgrowth are key events for functional recovery after spinal cord injury. Endogenous growth of axons is associated with a variety of factors. Inspired by the relationship between developing nerves and blood vessels, we believe spinal cord-derived microvascular endothelial cells (SCMECs) play an important role in axon growth. Results We found SCMECs could promote axon growth when co-cultured with neurons in direct and indirect co-culture systems via downregulating the miR-323-5p expression of neurons. In rats with spinal cord injury, neuron-targeting nanoparticles were employed to regulate miR-323-5p expression in residual neurons and promote function recovery. Conclusions Our study suggests that SCMEC can promote axon outgrowth by downregulating miR-323-5p expression within neurons, and miR-323-5p could be selected as a potential target for spinal cord injury repair. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Background Squamosa promoter-binding protein-like (SPL) is a plant-specific transcription factor that is widely involved in the regulation of plant growth and development, including flower and grain development, stress responses, and secondary metabolite synthesis. However, this gene family has not been comprehensively evaluated in barley, the most adaptable cereal crop with a high nutritional value. Results In this study, a total of 15 HvSPL genes were identified based on the Hordeum vulgare genome. These genes were named HvSPL1 to HvSPL15 based on the chromosomal distribution of the HvSPL genes and were divided into seven groups (I, II, III, V, VI, VII, and VIII) based on the phylogenetic tree analysis. Chromosomal localization revealed one pair of tandem duplicated genes and one pair of segmental duplicated genes. The HvSPL genes exhibited the highest collinearity with the monocotyledonous plant, Zea mays (27 pairs), followed by Oryza sativa (18 pairs), Sorghum bicolor (16 pairs), and Arabidopsis thaliana (3 pairs), and the fewest homologous genes with Solanum lycopersicum (1 pair). The distribution of the HvSPL genes in the evolutionary tree was relatively scattered, and HvSPL proteins tended to cluster with SPL proteins from Z. mays and O. sativa, indicating a close relationship between HvSPL and SPL proteins from monocotyledonous plants. Finally, the spatial and temporal expression patterns of the 14 HvSPL genes from different subfamilies were determined using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Based on the results, the HvSPL gene family exhibited tissue-specific expression and played a regulatory role in grain development and abiotic stress. HvSPL genes are highly expressed in various tissues during seed development. The expression levels of HvSPL genes under the six abiotic stress conditions indicated that many genes responded to stress, especially HvSPL8, which exhibited high expression under multiple stress conditions, thereby warranting further attention. Conclusion In this study, 15 SPL gene family members were identified in the genome of Hordeum vulgare, and the phylogenetic relationships, gene structure, replication events, gene expression, and potential roles of these genes in millet development were studied. Our findings lay the foundation for exploring the HvSPL genes and performing molecular breeding of barley.

Abstract Fruit color substantially affects consumer preferences, with darker red strawberries being economically more valuable due to their higher anthocyanin content. However, the molecular basis for the dark red coloration remains unclear. Through screening of an ethyl methanesulfonate mutant library, we identified a rg418 mutant, that demonstrated anthocyanin accumulation during early fruit development stages. Furthermore, the ripening fruits of this mutant had higher anthocyanin content than wild-type (WT) fruits. An analysis of flavonoid content in WT and rg418 mutant fruits revealed substantial changes in metabolic fluxes, with the mutant exhibiting increased levels of anthocyanins and flavonols and decreased levels of proanthocyanidins. Bulked sergeant analysis sequencing indicated that the mutant gene was anthocyanidin reductase (ANR), a key gene in the proanthocyanidin synthesis pathway. Furthermore, transcriptome sequencing revealed the increased expression of MYB105 during the early development stage of mutant fruits, which promoted the expression of UFGT (UDP-glucose flavonoid 3-O-glucosyltransferase), a key gene involved in anthocyanin synthesis, thus substantially enhancing the anthocyanin content in the mutant fruits. Additionally, mutating ANR in a white-fruited strawberry variant (myb10 mutant) resulted in appealing pink-colored fruits, suggesting the diverse roles of ANR in fruit color regulation. Our study provides valuable theoretical insights for improving strawberry fruit color.

Abstract Background Due to its unique anatomical characteristics, supracondylar fractures of the humerus are often difficult to achieve firm fixation with internal fixation equipment, resulting in delayed functional exercise, often leaving cubitus varus deformity, elbow stiffness, contractures, and other complications. Here, we report an adult patient with a supracondylar fracture of the humerus who underwent internal fixation through an anterior median incision in the humerus with our self-developed anterior anatomical locking plate of the distal humerus. Case presentation A 29-year-old male patient of Chinese ethnicity with trauma-induced right supracondylar fracture of the humerus and multiple soft tissue contusions, without nerve damage, blood vessel damage, or other injuries, underwent an internal incision in our hospital using a new anatomical locking plate for the anterior distal humerus fixed treatment. During the 16-month follow-up period, the patient’s elbow range of motion was almost completely restored, functional scores were excellent, and there were no minor or major postoperative complications. Conclusion In this study, we propose a surgical reconstruction strategy for adult patients with supracondylar humeral fractures. Through the anterior median incision of the humerus, open reduction and internal fixation were performed with an anatomic locking plate on the anterior side of the distal humerus to restore and fix the structure of the distal humerus, and satisfactory clinical results were achieved in our case.

Abstract Fischer-Tropsch synthesis (FTS) is a structure-sensitive reaction of which performance is strongly related to the active phase, particle size, and exposed facets. Compared with the full-pledged investigation on the active phase and particle size, the facet effect has been limited to theoretical studies or single-crystal surfaces, lacking experimental reports of practical catalysts, especially for Fe-based catalysts. Herein, we demonstrate the facet sensitivity of iron carbides in FTS. As the prerequisite, {202} and {112} facets of χ-Fe5C2 are fabricated as the outer shell through the conformal reconstruction of Fe3O4 nanocubes and octahedra, as the inner cores, respectively. During FTS, the activity and stability are highly sensitive to the exposed facet of iron carbides, whereas the facet sensitivity is not prominent for the chain growth. According to mechanistic studies, {202} χ-Fe5C2 surfaces follow hydrogen-assisted CO dissociation which lowers the activation energy compared with the direct CO dissociation over {112} surfaces, affording the high FTS activity.

Abstract Correct regulation of intercellular communication is a fundamental requirement for cell differentiation. In Arabidopsis thaliana, the female germline differentiates from a single somatic ovule cell that becomes encased in β−1,3-glucan, a water insoluble polysaccharide implicated in limiting pathogen invasion, regulating intercellular trafficking in roots, and promoting pollen development. Whether β−1,3-glucan facilitates germline isolation and development has remained contentious, since limited evidence is available to support a functional role. Here, transcriptional profiling of adjoining germline and somatic cells revealed differences in gene expression related to β−1,3-glucan metabolism and signalling through intercellular channels (plasmodesmata). Dominant expression of a β−1,3-glucanase in the female germline transiently perturbed β−1,3-glucan deposits, allowed intercellular movement of tracer molecules, and led to changes in germline gene expression and histone marks, eventually leading to termination of germline development. Our findings indicate that germline β−1,3-glucan fulfils a functional role in the ovule by insulating the primary germline cell, and thereby determines the success of downstream female gametogenesis.

Abstract Oxygen vacancy (Ov) is an anionic defect widely existed in metal oxide lattice, as exemplified by CeO2, TiO2, and ZnO. As Ov can modify the band structure of solid, it improves the physicochemical properties such as the semiconducting performance and catalytic behaviours. We report here a new type of Ov as an intrinsic part of a perfect crystalline surface. Such non-defect Ov stems from the irregular hexagonal sawtooth-shaped structure in the (111) plane of trivalent rare earth oxides (RE2O3). The materials with such intrinsic Ov structure exhibit excellent performance in ammonia decomposition reaction with surface Ru active sites. Extremely high H2 formation rate has been achieved at ~1 wt% of Ru loading over Sm2O3, Y2O3 and Gd2O3 surface, which is 1.5–20 times higher than reported values in the literature. The discovery of intrinsic Ov suggests great potentials of applying RE oxides in heterogeneous catalysis and surface chemistry.

Abstract The establishment of symbiotic interactions between leguminous plants and rhizobia requires complex cellular programming activated by Rhizobium Nod factors (NFs) as well as type III effector (T3E)-mediated symbiotic signaling. However, the mechanisms by which different signals jointly affect symbiosis are still unclear. Here we describe the mechanisms mediating the cross-talk between the broad host range rhizobia Sinorhizobium fredii HH103 T3E Nodulation Outer Protein L (NopL) effector and NF signaling in soybean. NopL physically interacts with the Glycine max Remorin 1a (GmREM1a) and the NFs receptor NFR5 (GmNFR5) and promotes GmNFR5 recruitment by GmREM1a. Furthermore, NopL and NF influence the expression of GmRINRK1, a receptor-like kinase (LRR-RLK) ortholog of the Lotus RINRK1, that mediates NF signaling. Taken together, our work indicates that S. fredii NopL can interact with the NF signaling cascade components to promote the symbiotic interaction in soybean.

Litsea pungens Hemsl., a type of deciduous or evergreen small tree or shrub, has significant value in fragrance, flavoring, and medicinal applications. However, the industry faces challenges such as low product technological content, limited processing models, and insufficient utilization in high-value processing. This article systematically reviews the volatile aroma compounds found in Litsea pungens Hemsl., including sesquiterpenes, limonene, citral, and linalool, as well as non-volatile constituents such as alkaloids, fatty acids, resin, and amides. It also explores its biological activities, which include antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-arthritic properties. The article elucidates the sensory similarities between Litsea pungens Hemsl. and Sichuan pepper or black pepper, identifying amide compounds and eugenol as the chemical constituents responsible for the pungent sensation. It reviews research progress in its applications such as food quality preservation, salt reduction in dishes, enhancement of tobacco flavor, weed and pest control, and auxiliary dental treatments. Therefore, strengthening fundamental research on Litsea pungens Hemsl. and expediting the translation of related scientific achievements carry significant practical implications for advancing the industry chain and augmenting economic benefits.

Abstract The leaf beetle Ophraella communa LeSage (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) is an effective biological control agent of the common ragweed. Here, we assembled a chromosome-level genome of the O. communa by combining Illumina, Nanopore, and Hi-C sequencing technologies. The genome size of the final genome assembly is 733.1 Mb, encompassing 17 chromosomes, with an improved contig N50 of 7.05 Mb compared to the original version. Genome annotation reveals 25,873 protein-coding genes, with functional annotations available for 22,084 genes (85.35%). Non-coding sequence annotation identified 204 rRNAs, 626 tRNAs, and 1791 small RNAs. Repetitive elements occupy 414.41 Mb, constituting 57.76% of the genome. This high-quality genome is fundamental for advancing biological control strategies employing O. communa.

Traditional beef jerky contains a high content of sodium salt while the reduction of sodium usage impairs the flavor of final product. Regarding above issues, this research innovatively applied ultrasound-assisted salts (NaCl and KCl) recombination in the pickling stage of low-sodium beef jerky, and further compared the flavor differences caused by ultrasound by sensory evaluation, E-nose and GC-IMS. Besides, the changes of physicochemical qualities were explored including salts content, color and shear force. Results showed that ultrasound had positive impacts on flavor quality. The 400 W treatment was chosen as an optimal group for flavor improvement which was mainly related with the increased level of 5 aldehydes (nonanal, 3-methylbutanal, heptanal, pentanal and octanal) and the decreased level of 3 ketones (2-butanone, 2-pentanone and 2,3-pentanedione). Simultaneously, ultrasound increased the redness and tenderness of final product. Thus, ultrasound is a promising approach for improving the flavor of low-sodium beef jerky.

This work systematically investigated the effects of pre-slaughter transport stress on pork water holding capacity (WHC) during aging from the perspectives of oxidation, structure, function, and degradation properties of protein. Pigs were randomly divided into three-hour transport (Transport-induced stress, T group) and three-hour transport followed by three-hour resting (Control, TR group). Results demonstrated that T treatment markedly declined pork WHC. Compared with TR group, T group presented increased oxidation levels. Meanwhile, T treatment exacerbated the shift of protein secondary structure from α-helix to random coil and protein unfolding levels. The decreased solubility, thermal stability, and degraded levels of proteins were also observed in T group. Additionally, muscle contractions of T group were more severe than TR group. This study supported that pre-slaughter transport stress altered physicochemical properties and structures of postmortem muscle proteins, which reduced pork WHC via impairing the interactions between protein and water molecules and changing the muscle fiber structure.

Background Endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL) is the primary treatment for esophageal variceal bleeding in patients with liver cirrhosis (LC). Postoperative rebleeding is a complication of EVL, contributing to over 20% of bleeding-related deaths. This study aims to examine the association between platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and rebleeding within 6 weeks after EVL in patients with LC.Methods The study included 145 eligible patients who underwent their first EVL procedure at Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College between January 2016 and August 2022 (YJS cohort). An external validation cohort comprising 338 eligible patients from NO.2 People’s Hospital of Fuyang City (FY cohort) between July 2018 and August 2022 was also utilized.Results In the YJS cohort, Multivariate logistic analysis indicated that high PLR is independently associated with early rebleeding after EVL. The restricted cubic spline analysis demonstrated that the risk of rebleeding increases with rising PLR, stabilizing at PLR values greater than 150. Similar findings were validated in the FY cohort.Conclusions Our results have the potential to aid in the identification of high-risk patients for early rebleeding after EVL, thereby enabling improved clinical management and outcomes for these individuals.

ABSTRACTChina’s massive urbanisation development will undoubtedly serve as a global reference. Due to the uncertainty of statistical data, nighttime light (NTL) data have emerged as alternative data for urbanisation evaluation. Here, the application of the Prolonged Artificial NTL Dataset of China (1984–2020) has been newly expanded. Total-value statistical, complex NTL index (CNLI), NTL concentration degree, rank-size rule, and Markov transfer matrix were used to systematically mine information about urban change from multiple perspectives. China’s urbanisation exhibited rapid growth and outwards expansion. The total percentage increase in NTL brightness and NTL area was 409.38% and 302.58%, respectively. The Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration of East China had the fastest urbanisation (CNLI Trend = 0.0057/a, p 95%) in city size type transition. The spatiotemporal changes in NTL obtained were of great significance for monitoring urban expansion patterns, making government decisions, and quantifying China’s sustainable development.

BackgroundChronic comorbidities are often associated with higher risks of depression and mortality. This study aims to explore the relationships between the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) and depression, and their combined effect on mortality.MethodsThis study made use of data gathered in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2007 to 2018, including a collective of 23,927 adult participants. According to CCI score distribution, CCI was categorized into three groups (T1 with CCI = 0; T2 with CCI = 1; T3 with CCI ≥ 2). In the CCI ≥ 2 group, patients may have two or more chronic diseases. Multivariable logistic regression models were employed to explore the relationship between CCI and depression. The study utilized the Cox proportional hazards model to investigate the association between CCI, the combination of CCI and depression, and all-cause mortality.ResultsOur analysis revealed that after adjusting for potential confounders, a positive association was found between CCI and depression (OR = 1.25, 95% CI: 1.21, 1.29). Moreover, a greater CCI was found to be closely linked to higher mortality in individuals with depression (HR = 1.14, 95% CI 1.11, 1.18). Stratifying CCI into tertiles, higher tertiles of CCI (T2, T3 vs T1) also showed positive associations with depression and all-cause mortality. For patients with CCI ≥2 (T3) combined with depression, the risk of mortality was significantly elevated compared to those with CCI = 0 (T1) and non-depressed participants (HR = 2.01, 95% CI: 1.60, 2.52).ConclusionThe study findings demonstrate a positive correlation between CCI and the risk of depression, along with an association with increased all-cause mortality among depression patients. Hence, it is important to prioritize the clinical care of patients with a high CCI (≥2) and depression in order to lower the chances of mortality.

Ozone formation is closely tied to emissions of precursors, meteorological conditions, and atmospheric chemistry. In June 2024, Xuzhou City, located at the intersection of Jiangsu, Shandong, Henan, and Anhui provinces in East China, experienced a series of ozone pollution events. The continuous pollution episodes were characterized by consistently high levels of ozone, with daytime peaks reaching 130 ppb. By combining observations of atmospheric oxidation and the use of the Observation-Based Model model, it was determined that the pollution was the result of a “heatwave-ozone” co-occurring extreme event triggered by elevated temperatures, low humidity, and intense radiation. The heatwave led to increased emissions of VOCs from both natural and human-related sources, with more pronounced contribution from Bio-alkenes and OVOCs. This, in turn, resulted in higher levels of oxidizing agents and ozone formation potential, exacerbating the co-occurrence of heatwaves and ozone extremes. Sensitivity tests on enhanced controls showed that reducing NOx had a significant adverse effect on ozone levels, whereas reducing VOCs had positive benefits, particularly for controlling alkenes. Despite ongoing reductions in anthropogenic VOCs, the elevated temperatures led to an increase in natural VOCs emissions. On average, a 1°C temperature decrease could reduce the reactivity ratio of VOCs to NOx (VOCR/NOxR) by 0.12, thereby enhancing the advantages of emission reductions. Therefore, implementing measures to alleviate extreme heatwaves, such as limiting high-energy consumption and inducing artificial rainfall, can simultaneously reduce the intensity and reactivity of VOC emissions, aiding in the effective implementation of ozone pollution control policies.

With global warming, heat stress has been recognized as a significant factor limiting grapevine development and fruit quality. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small non-coding RNAs known to play crucial regulatory roles in stress resistance. Hence, there is an immediate requirement to cultivate and identify grapevine varieties that are resistant to heat and explore miRNA-mediated heat stress defense mechanisms. In this study, we assessed the thermal resistance of 38 grape germplasm resources and identified a series of miRNAs involved in heat stress resistance. The CK (25°C) and HS (45°C) groups of “Shenyue” cuttings of grapes were used as experimental materials for next-generation sequencing and construct libraries of small RNAs. A total of 177 known and 20 novel miRNAs were detected in the libraries. Differential expression analysis identified 65 differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) using the DE-Seq procedure. Furthermore, RT-qPCR validation confirmed complementary expression profiles of eight DEMs and their target genes between the HS and CK groups. Heterologous transformation further identified the function of Vvi-miR3633a downregulated under heat stress in Arabidopsis. In the heterologous expression lines, the survival rate was reduced by high temperature treatment indicating the ability of Vvi-miR3633a to regulate heat resistance. Assessing the heat resistance of grape species and the expression patterns of miRNA in response to high temperatures may reveal the molecular processes of heat resistance regulation mediated by miRNA in grapes under heat stress.

Abstract Hafnium‐oxide‐based ferroelectrics have garnered considerable research interest, primarily for their robust ferroelectricity at the nanoscale and their high compatibility with complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductors processes. However, the impact of electrodes on the ferroelectric properties of hafnium‐oxide layer, particularly that of top electrodes, is not yet fully understood even in the simplest capacitor geometry. In this study, the La0.67Sr0.33MnO3/Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 (LSMO/HZO) epitaxial heterostructure is utilized as a model system to conduct a systematic comparative study on ferroelectricity between the LSMO/HZO (H‐LS) bilayer and LSMO/HZO/LSMO (LS‐H‐LS) trilayer samples. In comparison to the H‐LS sample, the LS‐H‐LS sample exhibits a more uniform polar domain configuration and larger ferroelectric polarization. Moreover, the LS‐H‐LS sample exhibits significant improvements in leakage, endurance, and retention. These substantial enhancements in ferroelectricity are likely due to interfacial stress imposed by the LSMO capping layer and its capacity to accommodate extra oxygen vacancies. These results underscore the pivotal role of oxide‐based top electrodes in determining the ferroelectricity of hafnium‐oxide‐based heterostructures, providing crucial insights for optimizing the performance of innovative ferroelectric devices.

Summary: Pain has become a major symptom of long COVID-19 without effective therapy. Apart from viral infection pathological process, SARS-CoV-2 membranal proteins (envelope [S2E], spike [S2S] and membrane [S2M]) also present pro-inflammatory feature independently. Here, we aim to uncover the neuroinflammatory mechanism of COVID-pain induced by SARS-CoV-2 membranal proteins. We detected the three proteins in both peripheral sensory ganglions and spinal dorsal horn of COVID-19 donors. After intradermal and intrathecal injection, only S2E triggered pain behaviors, accompanied with upregulated-phosphorylation nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), which was significantly attenuated by minocycline in mice. We further identified Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) among TLRs as the target of S2E to evoke inflammatory responses leading to COVID-pain. This study identified the nociceptive effect of S2E through directly interacting with macrophage/microglia TLR2 and inducing the following NF-κB inflammatory storm. Clearing away S2E and inhibiting macrophage/microglia TLR2 served as perspective therapeutic strategies for COVID-19 pain.

BackgroundDespite advances in neuro-oncology, treatments of glioma and tools for predicting the outcome of patients remain limited. The objective of this research is to construct a prognostic model for glioma using the Homologous Recombination Deficiency (HRD) score and validate its predictive capability for glioma.MethodsWe consolidated glioma datasets from TCGA, various cancer types for pan-cancer HRD analysis, and two additional glioma RNAseq datasets from GEO and CGGA databases. HRD scores, mutation data, and other genomic indices were calculated. Using machine learning algorithms, we identified signature genes and constructed an HRD-related prognostic risk model. The model’s performance was validated across multiple cohorts. We also assessed immune infiltration and conducted molecular docking to identify potential therapeutic agents.ResultsOur analysis established a correlation between higher HRD scores and genomic instability in gliomas. The model, based on machine learning algorithms, identified seven key genes, significantly predicting patient prognosis. Moreover, the HRD score prognostic model surpassed other models in terms of prediction efficacy across different cancers. Differential immune cell infiltration patterns were observed between HRD risk groups, with potential implications for immunotherapy. Molecular docking highlighted several compounds, notably Panobinostat, as promising for high-risk patients.ConclusionsThe prognostic model based on the HRD score threshold and associated genes in glioma offers new insights into the genomic and immunological landscapes, potentially guiding therapeutic strategies. The differential immune profiles associated with HRD-risk groups could inform immunotherapeutic interventions, with our findings paving the way for personalized medicine in glioma treatment.

China is a country in the world with the serious environmental pollution of coal mine “three wastes” (solid, liquid, gas). A lot of in-depth research and practice has been carried out on the utilization and treatment of “three wastes”. However, there are still many problems such as imperfect standards and norms, small scale of treatment and unsound technology. In order to solve the problem of synergistic development of low-cost geological storage of large-scale “three wastes” and ecological environment in China’s coal mines, on the basis of the definition of geological storage in other countries, the connotation of geological storage in China has been expanded. The progress and current status of research on the geological storage of “three wastes” are analyzed. Literature and patents related to the geological storage of “three wastes” at home and abroad are reviewed. The problems faced by China in carrying out the geological storage of “three wastes” and the suggestions for further development are put forward. It is pointed out that the main problem faced by the geological storage of “three wastes” in China is the inadequacy of the standards and regulations in the field of environment, especially the extensive lack of standards for the deep-well injection of waste liquids. The systematic research has shown that the research institutions in China are paying increasing attention to research in the field of the geological storage of the “three wastes”, and that the results of the research account for a high percentage of research in the world. China’s coal mine “three wastes” geological storage and ecological environment synergistic development awareness and system is being formed. However, there is insufficient support for research on the large-scale geological storage of “three wastes”, the cyclic system of geological storage of “three wastes” in the whole cycle of coal mining, and the synergistic relationship between CO2 capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) technology and the ecological environment. This seriously restricts the large-scale implementation and application of the concepts, technologies and projects of geological storage. China should expeditiously strengthen the scientific and technological research and development of coal mine “three wastes” geological storage technology and ecological environment synergistic development. Through the establishment of improved standards and norms, increased technological research and development, and strengthened environmental supervision and other measures, the green and sustainable development in China’s coal mines is promoted, helping the China’s “dual-carbon” goal to be realized.

Abstract Aims Surveys and research on the applications of the hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) are important for understanding the current status and future development of this technology in China. This article aimed to investigate the status of hepatic venous pressure gradient measurement in China in 2022. Methods We investigated the overall status of HVPG technology in China—including hospital distribution, hospital level, annual number of cases, catheters used, average cost, indications, and current challenges by using online questionnaire. By counting the number and percentages of cases of these results, we hope to clarify the current status of HVPG measurements in China. Results According to the survey, 85 hospitals in China used HVPG technology in 2022 distributed across 29 provinces. A total of 4989 HVPG measurements were performed in all of the surveyed hospitals in 2022, of which 2813 cases (56.4%) were measured alone. The average cost of HVPG measurement was 5646.8 ± 2327.9 CNY. Of the clinical teams who performed the measurements (sometimes multiple per hospital), 94.3% (82/87) used the balloon method, and the majority of the teams (72.4%, 63/87) used embolectomy catheters. Conclusions This survey clarified the clinical application status of HVPG in China and confirmed that some medical institutions in China have established a foundation for this technology. It is still necessary to continue promoting and popularizing this technology in the future.

Abstract Introduction and objectives In diseases characterized by fibrosis, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are mesenchymal cells that play an important role in liver fibrosis. circRNAs are involved in regulating hydatid exocyst formation through miRNA sponge adsorption. The mechanisms of hepatic cystic hydatid outer cyst formation, HSC, and liver fibrosis are unclear. Materials and methods Based on our sequencing data, we validated the mechanism by which circRNA-049637 regulated hepatic cystic hydatid growth and promoted outer fibrocystic wall formation. Results Our results revealed that circRNA_049637 silencing promoted the proliferation of LX-2 human HSCs, affected the cell cycle, and increased the mRNA and protein expression levels of liver fibrosis-related indicators such as α-SMA, COL1A1, COL3A1, and TGFβRII. Conclusions CircRNA_049637 may induce the formation of hepatic hydatid cysts by promoting hepatic fibrosis via HSC activation.

Abstract Complicated associations between multiplexed environmental factors and aging are poorly understood. We manipulated aging using multidimensional metrics such as phenotypic age, brain age, and brain volumes in the UK Biobank. Weighted quantile sum regression was used to examine the relative individual contributions of multiplexed environmental factors to aging, and self-organizing maps (SOMs) were used to examine joint effects. Air pollution presented a relatively large contribution in most cases. We also found fair heterogeneities in which the same environmental factor contributed inconsistently to different aging metrics. Particulate matter contributed the most to variance in aging, while noise and green space showed considerable contribution to brain volumes. SOM identified five subpopulations with distinct environmental exposure patterns and the air pollution subpopulation had the worst aging status. This study reveals the heterogeneous associations of multiplexed environmental factors with multidimensional aging metrics and serves as a proof of concept when analyzing multifactors and multiple outcomes.

Abstract Powdery mildew is a devastating disease that affects wheat yield and quality. Wheat wild relatives represent valuable sources of disease resistance genes. Cloning and characterization of these genes will facilitate their incorporation into wheat breeding programs. Here, we report the cloning of Pm57, a wheat powdery mildew resistance gene from Aegilops searsii. It encodes a tandem kinase protein with putative kinase-pseudokinase domains followed by a von Willebrand factor A domain (WTK-vWA), being ortholog of Lr9 that mediates wheat leaf rust resistance. The resistance function of Pm57 is validated via independent mutants, gene silencing, and transgenic assays. Stable Pm57 transgenic wheat lines and introgression lines exhibit high levels of all-stage resistance to diverse isolates of the Bgt fungus, and no negative impacts on agronomic parameters are observed in our experimental set-up. Our findings highlight the emerging role of kinase fusion proteins in plant disease resistance and provide a valuable gene for wheat breeding.

Abstract Background Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly heterogeneous, recurrent and aggressively invasive primary malignant brain tumor. The heterogeneity of GBM results in poor targeted therapy. Therefore, the aim of this study is to depict the cellular landscape of GBM and its peritumor from a single-cell perspective. Discovering new cell subtypes and biomarkers, and providing a theoretical basis for precision therapy. Methods We collected 8 tissue samples from 4 GBM patients to perform 10 × single-cell transcriptome sequencing. Quality control and filtering of data by Seurat package for clustering. Inferring copy number variations to identify malignant cells via the infercnv package. Functional enrichment analysis was performed by GSVA and clusterProfiler packages. STRING database and Cytoscape software were used to construct protein interaction networks. Inferring transcription factors by pySCENIC. Building cell differentiation trajectories via the monocle package. To infer intercellular communication networks by CellPhoneDB software. Results We observed that the tumor microenvironment (TME) varies among different locations and different GBM patients. We identified a proliferative cluster of oligodendrocytes with high expression of mitochondrial genes. We also identified two clusters of myeloid cells, one primarily located in the peritumor exhibiting an M1 phenotype with elevated TNFAIP8L3 expression, and another in the tumor and peritumor showing a proliferative tendency towards an M2 phenotype with increased DTL expression. We identified XIST, KCNH7, SYT1 and DIAPH3 as potential factors associated with the proliferation of malignant cells in GBM. Conclusions These biomarkers and cell clusters we discovered may serve as targets for treatment. Targeted drugs developed against these biomarkers and cell clusters may enhance treatment efficacy, optimize immune therapy strategies, and improve the response rates of GBM patients to immunotherapy. Our findings provide a theoretical basis for the development of individualized treatment and precision medicine for GBM, which may be used to improve the survival of GBM patients.

α-Cembrenediol displays a diverse array of biological activities, encompassing antibacterial, antitumor, and neuroprotective effects. To comprehensively understand the in vivo transport, distribution, and elimination mechanisms associated with α-cembrenediol, its interaction with bovine serum albumin (BSA) was investigated. In this study, the interaction between α-cembrenediol and BSA was explored using various techniques, including UV absorption, steady-state fluorescence, circular dichroism spectrum, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulation. The results showed that there was a clear interaction between BSA and α-cembrenediol. Specifically, the KSV and Kb decreased with increasing temperature at 293, 303, and 310 K, indicating that α-cembrenediol interacted with BSA through a static quenching mechanism. Furthermore, the number of binding sites was approximately 1 at the three temperatures, suggesting the presence of a single specific binding site for α-cembrenediol on BSA. Moreover, the binding process occurred spontaneously (ΔG

In this study, the mechanical behavior and microstructure of a hot-rolled AZ31 magnesium alloy sheet under free-end torsion with torsional axis along rolling direction (RD), normal direction (ND) and 45° in ND-RD plane, have been investigated both experimentally and numerically. The mechanical behavior under torsion, including stress-strain response, Swift effect and strain hardening rate, present obvious anisotropy. The Swift effect is sensitive to the direction of torsion axis and exhibits remarkable anisotropy with axial elongation in ND sample and axial shortening in RD and 45° samples. The axial elongation or shortening is determined by both slips and extension twin, with extension twin exerting a greater influence on the extent of the axial deformation. During shear straining, the dominant deformation mode transforms basal slip to prismatic slip with the axial direction deviating from ND to RD, while the second-order pyramidal ⟨c+a⟩ slip is nearly not activated during whole deformation attributed to its high critical resolved shear stress. Based on the effective Schmid factor (ESF) of deformation modes, the grains with favored orientation would get activation of {101‾2} extension twin due to the high ESF, resulting in the different twin volume fractions. Additionally, the activation of twin relative to basal slip has a connection with the increasing trend of normalized strain hardening rate.

In situ temperature monitoring has become extremely imperative in high-temperature harsh environments and polymer-derived ceramics (PDCs) as sensing materials have attracted great attention. However, the stability and oxidation/corrosion resistance of PDCs cannot be simultaneously achieved at the moment, limiting their practical application. Herein, polymer-derived SiAlBCN ceramics were synthesized via polymer conversion method under different pyrolysis temperatures. Their microstructure evolution, high temperature sensing properties, and stability were investigated in detail. The results show that the amorphous SiAlBCN phase grows more orderly and the size of the free carbon phase enlarges with the increasing temperature. The defect concentration displays a decreasing tendency. Concurrently, the SiAlBCN ceramics as sensing materials exhibit a good temperature–resistance property from roo temperature to 1100 ℃. The fabricated SiAlBCN temperature sensor possesses excellent stability, repeatability, and accuracy. Moreover, SiAlBCN ceramics exhibit distinguished oxidation/corrosion resistance after 100 h treatment at 1200 ℃ in a water/oxygen environment, which is attributed to their low corrosive rate constant (0.57 mg/(cm2·h)) and oxidative rate constant (3.43 mg2/(cm4·h)). Therefore, polymer-derived SiAlBCN ceramics as sensing materials, which possess outstanding stability and oxidation/corrosion resistance, have great potential for in-situ monitoring of extreme environmental temperatures in the future.

In this study, a novel residential virtual power plant (RVPP) scheduling method that leverages a gate recurrent unit (GRU)-integrated deep reinforcement learning (DRL) algorithm is proposed. In the proposed scheme, the GRU- integrated DRL algorithm guides the RVPP to participate effectively in both the day-ahead and real-time markets, lowering the electricity purchase costs and consumption risks for end-users. The Lagrangian relaxation technique is introduced to transform the constrained Markov decision process (CMDP) into an unconstrained optimization problem, which guarantees that the constraints are strictly satisfied without determining the penalty coefficients. Furthermore, to enhance the scalability of the constrained soft actor-critic (CSAC)-based RVPP scheduling approach, a fully distributed scheduling architecture was designed to enable plug-and-play in the residential distributed energy resources (RDER). Case studies performed on the constructed RVPP scenario validated the performance of the proposed methodology in enhancing the responsiveness of the RDER to power tariffs, balancing the supply and demand of the power grid, and ensuring customer comfort.

Abstract Purpose The aim of this study is to construct a combined model that integrates radiomics, clinical risk factors and machine learning algorithms to predict para-laryngeal lymph node metastasis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Methods A retrospective study included 361 patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma from 2 centers. Radiomics features were extracted from the computed tomography scans. Logistic regression, k nearest neighbor, multilayer perceptron, light Gradient Boosting Machine, support vector machine, random forest algorithms were used to construct radiomics models. The receiver operating characteristic curve and The Hosmer–Lemeshow test were employed to select the better-performing model. Clinical risk factors were identified through univariate logistic regression analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis and utilized to develop a clinical model. A combined model was then created by merging radiomics and clinical risk factors. The performance of the models was evaluated using ROC curve analysis, and the clinical value of the models was assessed using decision curve analysis. Results A total of 1024 radiomics features were extracted. Among the radiomics models, the KNN model demonstrated the optimal diagnostic capabilities and accuracy, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.84 in the training cohort and 0.62 in the internal test cohort. Furthermore, the combined model exhibited an AUC of 0.97 in the training cohort and 0.86 in the internal test cohort. Conclusion A clinical-radiomics integrated nomogram can predict occult para-laryngeal lymph node metastasis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and provide guidance for personalized treatment.

Abstract Microstructures and mechanical properties of Mg-12Gd-0.8Zn-0.4Zr (GZ1208K, wt.%) alloy under different treatments (as-cast: signed as nonHIP-GZ1208K, hot isostatic pressing (HIP): signed as HIP-GZ1208K) were characterized. Based on microstructure characterization, two prismatic precipitates, β′ and β1 precipitates, and one basal precipitate, γ′ precipitate, formed in both of nonHIP-GZ1208K and HIP-GZ1208K alloy. According to analysis, the area number density and the size of β′ precipitate could be adjusted through HIP treatment. The area number density of β′ precipitate increased after HIP treatment when aged at 32 h, and the size of β′ precipitate refined in both of the HIP-GZ1208K alloy aged at 8 h and 32 h. Except the influence of HIP treatment on microstructures, the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and elongation of nonHIP-GZ1208K alloy also improved after HIP treatment. The UTS of the GZ1208K alloy aged at 8 h increased from 348 MPa (nonHIP-) to 371 MPa (HIP-) and the elongation increased from 2.6% to 4.7%. The density of the nonHIP-GZ1208K alloy increased after HIP treatment, that is to say the casting defects could be eliminated and the compactness of microstructures could be increased under the high pressure of HIP treatment.

Abstract Objectives Comorbidities, as components of these heterogeneous features, often coexist with knee osteoarthritis, and are particularly prevalent in end-stage knee osteoarthritis. Here, we attempted to identify the different clinical phenotypes of comorbidities in patients with end-stage knee osteoarthritis by cluster analysis. Methods A total of 421 inpatients diagnosed with end-stage knee osteoarthritis who underwent inpatient surgery were included in this cross-sectional study. 23 demographic, comorbidity, inflammatory immune and evaluation scale variables were collected. Systematic clustering after factor analysis and separate two-step cluster analysis were performed for individual comorbidity variables and all variables, respectively, to objectively identify the different clinical phenotypes of the study patients. Results Four clusters were finally identified. Cluster 1 had the largest proportion of obese patients (93.8%) and hypertension was common (71.2%). Almost all patients in cluster 2 were depressed (95.8%) and anxiety disorders (94.7%). Cluster 3 combined patients with isolated end-stage knee osteoarthritis and a few comorbidities. Cluster 4 had the highest proportion of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (58.8%). Conclusions Patients with end-stage knee osteoarthritis may be classified into four different clinical phenotypes: "isolated end-stage knee osteoarthritis"; "obesity + hypertension"; "depression + anxiety"; and "rheumatoid arthritis", which may help guide individualized patient care and treatment strategies.