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Abstract Although previous studies have shown that preoperative pulmonary rehabilitation training may improve postoperative prognosis in patients with lung cancer, the literature included in the existing meta-analysis is highly heterogeneous and lacks effective subgroup analysis. Therefore, an updated meta-analysis is needed to integrate the latest published randomized controlled clinical trials (RCT). This updated analysis was performed to identify the clinical effects of preoperative pulmonary rehabilitation on physical rehabilitation (lung function, activity endurance, and dyspnea), psychological rehabilitation, quality of life, length of hospital stay, and postoperative pulmonary complications in patients with lung cancer. The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science database were searched since inception up to March 2024. A random-effects model was used to pool data, and sensitivity and subgroup analyses were performed to explore the stability of outcomes and potential sources of heterogeneity. All analyses were conducted via Review Manager 5.4.1 and STATA 15.0. The final analysis included 11 RCTs with 1250 patients. The results of meta-analysis suggest that preoperative pulmonary rehabilitation can significantly improve the quality of life of patients with lung cancer after surgery (SMD: 0.16; 95% CI: 0.01, 0.32; P = 0.04) and significantly reduce the risk of postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) (RR: 0.39; 95% CI: 0.25, 0.60; P

Abstract Background Research on achieving a good death for terminally delirious patients is scarce, with limited knowledge about the level of good death and influencing factors. This study investigates the level of good death among delirium patients, factors influencing it, and the correlation between distress, end-of-life care needs, and achieving a good death by surveying bereaved family members of deceased patients in Chinese hospitals. Methods This cross-sectional study from January 2022 to January 2024 was conducted among bereaved family members of patients using an online questionnaire. The questionnaires consisted of (1) participants’ demographic and disease-related questionnaires; (2) the Good Death Inventory (GDI) China version; (3) Terminal Delirium-Related Distress Scale (TTDS) China version; (4) the Care Evaluation Scale - short form (CES) China version. All data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and the associated factors influencing good death were analyzed by multiple linear regression analyses. Result A total of 263 subjects were enrolled. More males (63.5%) participated than females (36.5%), the mean age was 75.35 ± 13.90 years. Good quality of death was significantly and negatively related to the distress in patients with irreversible terminal delirium (r = -0.458, P

Abstract Species with different genetic backgrounds exhibit distinct metabolic traits. Nine beef cattle were selected for the experiment to study changes in serum metabolic phenotypes, rumen microbiota diversity, and composition in beef cattle from different genetic backgrounds. Three groups were Chinese Simmental (S group), Simmental×Chinese Holstein (SH group), and Simmental × Mongolian (SM group) cattle. We used ELISA to detect serum biochemical indicators. The Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the rumen were examined, and a significant difference was observed in the acetic acid content of the three experimental groups (p

Abstract In order to utilize the advantages of optical computing and promote the application and popularization of Ternary Optical Computer (TOC), this paper proposes a dual-center programming model consisting of electronic processor and optical processor, presents the theory and technologies of the dual-center model in detail, and for the first time explains the SAN ZHI GUANG (SZG) file chain technology, gives the implementation method of the dual-center model. The model tries to effectively manage the resources of optical processor and solve the problem of the distance and network connection mode of using the TOC. Experimental results show that the dual-center model is correct and the implementation method is feasible. It can improve the usability of the TOC and further simplify the TOC programming process, and makes common users apply the TOC and electronic computer to work cooperatively for the same task.

During the flight of a flapping-wing flying robot, the unique flapping-wing propulsion mechanism causes periodic pitching and rolling motions of the body. In passing through different airspeeds and altitudes over different terrain, the wings cycle up-and-down through predefined stroke patterns to generate the aerodynamic force required for powered flight. However, this oscillatory flapping motion also causes the aircraft structure to pitch and roll periodically about its center of mass in an oscillatory manner. Consequently, substantial high-frequency jitter shakes aerial video footage captured by the onboard optical sensors. In particular, the rapid shaking that disrupts the image is synchronized with the characteristic wing beat rhythm. This jitter negatively affects the quality and usefulness of the acquired aerial video. Repeated up-and-down pitching and rolling displacements shake aerial footage, greatly reducing its clarity and stability. Without mitigation, the jitter severely affects imaging results, limiting the potential applications of such video. To solve this problem, this paper proposes an electronic image stabilization algorithm based on oriented fast and rotated brief (ORB) and sliding mean filtering for online debounce processing. First, because the jitter period of aerial images of a flapping-wing flying robot is consistent with the wing flapping period, we designed an estimation algorithm to estimate the wing flapping period based on image features. This algorithm enables us to more accurately capture the periodic characteristics of jitter and provides important parameters for subsequent image stabilization processing. Second, we proposed a motion filtering algorithm associated with the flapping period, which can adaptively and dynamically adjust filtering parameters adaptively according to different flight conditions. The algorithm proposed in this paper is advantageous because it can dynamically adjust parameters in real time based on the actual flight conditions of flapping-wing robots, thereby better adapting to different flight conditions and further improving the image stabilization effect. Third, to verify the feasibility and stability of the algorithm, this paper performed a flight experiment by mounting a visual imaging device on a flapping-wing flying robot. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm shows better image stabilization effects than commonly used electronic image stabilization algorithms in flapping-wing flying robots. Finally, we summarized the advantages of the proposed algorithm and provided an outlook on the future research directions.

Polymer-based nanocomposites, being widely concerned for lightweight and high-strength functional materials, still exhibit irreversible failures to resist mechanical damage and water erosion. In this paper, a kind of hydroxyl-rich silica nanomaterial was prepared and used for fabricating the chemically-bonded polyimide (PI)/hydroxyl-rich silica (SiO2-OH) nanocomposite through the surface-initiated curing and the coupling reaction, which then regulate the H-bonding network within the PI matrix. As a result, the prepared nanocomposite performed excellent thermal stability (Tg reaches 442.5℃) and improved mechanical properties. The improved nano-construction incorporates the film with the rebuilt H-bonding network to improve the moisture resistance of the PI matrix. This work, focusing on the constitution of chemically-bonded silicon-containing nanocomposite structure, will promote an in-depth understanding of the relationship between structure and properties of polymer film materials, being beneficial for the development of modern polymer-based materials of long-term service life.

In order to improve mall evacuation efficiency, Pyrosim software and Anylogic software are used to study the coupled evacuation of mall personnel using escalators and stairs in a fire scenario. The available safe evacuation time of each evacuation exit was explored by analyzing the smoke transport, temperature, CO concentration and visibility of each floor of the mall under different fire source locations when the fire shutter was lowered to 1.8m from the ground. Then, the evacuation model of mall personnel under fire scenario was built by using Anylogic to compare and analyze the evacuation time of mall personnel using escalators coupled with stairs and stairs only, and analyze the evacuation time of personnel using escalators coupled with stairs when the fire shutter at the escalator is down to 1.8m from the ground and when the fire shutter is not down. The study shows that when the fire source is located on the top floor of the mall, the smoke does not affect the evacuation of people on other floors during the simulation time. Under the fire scenario, the escalator-coupled staircase evacuation can shorten the maximum evacuation time by 23.37% compared with the staircase only. The fire shutter descends to 1.8m from the ground and the evacuation efficiency is 6.41% higher than when the fire shutter is not descended. This research contributes to the enhancement of mall safety and has practical implications for future emergency management strategies in public spaces.

Abstract Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) begins with premature activation of enzymes, promoted by the immune system, triggering a potential systemic inflammatory response that leads to organ failure with increased mortality and a bleak prognosis. Interleukin-22 (IL-22) is a cytokine that may have a significant role in SAP. IL-22, a member of the IL-10 cytokine family, has garnered growing interest owing to its potential tissue-protective properties. Recently, emerging research has revealed its specific effects on pancreatic diseases, particularly SAP. This paper provides a review of the latest knowledge on the role of IL-22 and its viability as a therapeutic target in SAP.

Abstract Carbon fibers (CFs) have attracted attention in the automotive, aviation, and aerospace industries. However, the coloration of CFs is challenging due to their brittleness, inertness, complexity, and time/energy-intensive processes. Herein, inspired by the naturally grown protrusive nanostructures on the green central surface of peacock back feathers, we report an in-situ self-growing strategy for developing carbon spheres (CSs) on the CFs surface to achieve color tuning. This is achieved via the dynamic growth of CSs using glucose as the feeding material. Combined with the coloration process, the interaction between CSs and CFs promotes stable interfacial forces in integrated molding. This strategy allows the coloring system to continuously vary its color in a designated manner, thereby, endowing it with satisfactory mechanical robustness, acid durability, and light fastness. We anticipate this developed approach can be potentially competitive in the color construction of CFs with multi-colors due to its low-cost manufacturing.

In order to optimize the pressure relief gas extraction process for the 1504 working face in East 2 of Dalong Coal Mine based on its mining and gas conditions, a physical model of pressure relief gas extraction in the airspace using two preliminary extraction processes—a high-level oblique borehole and a directional long borehole—was established using COMSOL 6.2 software. The changes in the gas extraction effect of high-level oblique boreholes were analyzed through a simulation of the advancement of the working face, and the reasons for the low utilization rate of the high-level oblique boreholes were outlined. The effects of the horizontal distance of the directional long boreholes from the side of the air return lane, the borehole spacing, and the negative pressure of the boreholes on the gas extraction effect were analyzed, and the gas extraction process of the directional long boreholes was optimized and applied in the field. The results showed that the directional long borehole gas extraction process had a better extraction effect, a higher borehole utilization rate, and superior cost savings, and was thus was the preferred process. Additionally, the optimal parameters were a 30 m horizontal distance of the boreholes from the side of the air return lane, a 30 m spacing between the boreholes, and a 20 kPa negative extraction pressure.

Understanding the behavior of high-temperature smoke propagation in roadways during coal mine fires and evaluating control measures are crucial for enhancing safety. This study, based on a significant fire incident at Chongqing Songzao Coal Mine, utilized PyroSim software to model the affected roadway. The laws governing smoke propagation and changes in temperature and CO concentration after fires were simulated and analyzed. Furthermore, the efficacy of combined reverse wind and water spray measures in mitigating the adverse effects of smoke spread was examined. The results indicated that smoke emanated from the fire source and spreads with airflow to the 2# coal bunker of the machine head, bifurcating into left and right paths. Downstream monitoring points exhibited decreasing temperatures with increasing distance from the fire source, while the initial detection time of CO gas increased correspondingly. The combined measures of reverse wind and water spray effectively mitigated smoke reverse spread. Compared to using reverse wind alone, these measures reduced temperatures by 17 °C at the nearest A5 monitoring point to the fire source and reduced CO concentrations by 5200 ppm.

PurposeThe aim of this study is to explore the interrelationships among body image perception, levels of psychological distress, and the quality of life (QOL) experienced by young breast cancer patients.MethodsThis study analyzed data from 339 young female breast cancer patients aged between 18 and 40 years (mean age was 33.47 years) from August 2023 to February 2024. Data on demographic characteristics, psychological distress, body image, medical coping, and QOL of young breast cancer patients were collected. Psychological distress, body image, medical coping, and QOL were measured using the Distress Thermometer (DT), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Body Image Scale (BIS), Medical Coping Modes Questionnaire (MCMQ), and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Breast (FACT-B), respectively. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to examine factors influencing QOL.ResultsAfter adjusting for covariates, significant predictors of QOL in young survivors included psychological distress (β = −3.125; p = 0.002), anxiety and depression (β = −4.31; p

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a clinical syndrome characterized by attacks of acute optic neuritis and transverse myelitis. We report a case with paraneoplastic NMOSD that improved after immunosuppressive therapy, surgical resection, and chemotherapy. A 48-year-old woman initially presented with gradual binocular visual loss over the course of one week. The patient was evaluated using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), visual evoked potential (VEP), pathological biopsy, immunohistochemistry, and autoimmune antibody testing. The brain MRI findings were normal. The VEP revealed prolonged P100 latencies in the right eye and an absence of significant waves in the left eye. Positive serum AQP4-IgG antibodies were found. The patient was diagnosed as NMOSD. Then the patient responded well to treatment with methylprednisolone. An ovarian tumor was found in the patient using abdominal MRI and CT. The tumor was surgically resected, and a pathological biopsy revealed that it was ovarian dysgerminoma. The patient received four rounds of chemotherapy after surgery. One month after the final chemotherapy treatment, a positron emission tomography (PET) scan revealed no tumor. The vision of the patient gradually recovered and serum AQP4 was negative. Furthermore, we summarized the characteristics of patients diagnosed with paraneoplastic NMOSD associated with ovarian neoplasms in previous studies. This is a characteristic case of overlapping NMOSD and ovarian dysgerminoma, demonstrating the importance of tumor therapy in cases of paraneoplastic NMOSD.

Abstract Exocytosis plays an essential role in delivering proteins, lipids, and cell wall polysaccharides to the plasma membrane and extracellular spaces. Accurate secretion through exocytosis is key to normal plant development as well as responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. During exocytosis, an octameric protein complex named the exocyst facilitates the tethering of secretory vesicles to the plasma membrane. Despite some understanding of molecular and cellular aspects of exocyst function obtained through reverse genetics and direct interaction assays, knowledge about upstream modulators and genetic interactors remains limited. Traditional genetic screens encounter practical issues in exocyst subunit mutant backgrounds, such as lethality of certain knockout mutants and/or potential redundancy of EXO70 homologs. To address these challenges, this study leverages the tunable and reversible nature of chemical genetics, employing Endosidin2 (ES2)—a synthetic inhibitor of EXO70—for a large‐scale chemical genetic mutant screen in Arabidopsis. This approach led to the identification of 70 ES2‐hypersensitive mutants, named es2s. Through a whole‐genome sequencing‐based mapping strategy, 14 nonallelic es2s mutants were mapped and the candidate mutations reported here. In addition, T‐DNA insertion lines were tested as alternative alleles to identify causal mutations. We found that T‐DNA insertion alleles for DCP5, VAS1/ISS1, ArgJ, and MEF11 were hypersensitive to ES2 for root growth inhibition. This research not only offers new genetic resources for systematically identifying molecular players interacting with the exocyst in Arabidopsis but also enhances understanding of the regulation of exocytosis.

Objective: To demonstrate the surgical techniques employed in the robotic single port (SP) transvaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (RSP-vNOTES) for hysterectomy utilizing a domestically developed robotic system in China. Methods: We performed two cases of RSP-vNOTES hysterectomy for patients presenting with persistent vaginal bleeding resulting in atypical endometrial hyperplasia per endometrial biopsy. Procedures were initiated with traditional TVH and seamlessly transitioned to the robotic platform when necessary to complete the entire process. The robotic docking process was executed smoothly. Two elbowed instruments, a bipolar grasper, a pair of monopolar scissors, and a facing-upward camera were used. The hysterectomies were carried out precisely, without complications. Bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy was performed in the first patient and bilateral salpingectomy in the second. The vaginal cuff was closed continuously through a transvaginal approach after undocking. Results: Both patients were discharged on the third postoperative day, with satisfactory surgical results and no complications. Conclusions: The domestically developed Chinese Robotic SP system demonstrates feasibility for RSP-vNOTES procedures of hysterectomy. This approach amalgamates the advantages of both vaginal and robotic surgeries, incorporating surgical triangulation with an elbowed function that simplifies surgical manipulation. However, further studies with larger sample sizes and potential comparative analyses are essential to validate the merits and safety of adopting this platform.

Abstract Background Plant HSP20s are not only synthesized in response to heat stress but are also involved in plant biotic and abiotic stress resistance, normal metabolism, development, differentiation, survival, ripening, and death. Thus, HSP20 family genes play very important and diverse roles in plants. To our knowledge, HSP20 family genes in peach have not yet been characterized in detail, and little is known about their possible function in the development of red flesh in peach. Results In total, 44 PpHSP20 members were identified in the peach genome in this study. Forty-four PpHSP20s were classified into 10 subfamilies, CI, CII, CIII, CV, CVI, CVII, MII, CP, ER, and Po, containing 18, 2, 2, 10, 5, 1, 1, 2, 1, and 2 proteins, respectively. Among the 44 PpHSP20 genes, 6, 4, 4, 3, 7, 11, 5, and 4 PpHSP20 genes were located on chromosomes 1 to 8, respectively. In particular, approximately 15 PpHSP20 genes were located at both termini or one terminus of each chromosome. A total of 15 tandem PpHSP20 genes were found in the peach genome, which belonged to five tandemly duplicated groups. Overall, among the three cultivars, the number of PpHSP20 genes with higher expression levels in red flesh was greater than that in yellow or white flesh. The expression profiling for most of the PpHSP20 genes in the red-fleshed ‘BJ’ was higher overall at the S3 stage than at the S2, S4-1, and S4-2 stages, with the S3 stage being a very important period of transformation from a white color to the gradual anthocyanin accumulation in the flesh of this cultivar. The subcellular localizations of 16 out of 19 selected PpHSP20 proteins were in accordance with the corresponding subfamily classification and naming. Additionally, to our knowledge, Prupe.3G034800.1 is the first HSP20 found in plants that has the dual targets of both the endoplasmic reticulum and nucleus. Conclusions This study provides a comprehensive understanding of PpHSP20s, lays a foundation for future analyses of the unknown function of PpHSP20 family genes in red-fleshed peach fruit and advances our understanding of plant HSP20 genes.

Abstract Development of energy-efficient lubricants is a way to reduce energy consumption for transportation, with the tendency to design molecules that are beneficial in reducing the viscosity of synthetic oils. Oligoether esters (OEEs), as a low-viscosity ester base oil, have characteristics such as simple synthesis and excellent lubrication effect, however, the application of OEEs in tribology field has rarely been investigated. The objective of the present study is to investigate the effect of structure on the lubricating performance of OEEs and to develop a predictive model for OEEs based on quantitative structure-property relationship (QSPR) through a combination of experiment and statistical modeling. Results showed that glycol chains contribute positively to lubrication with the ether functional groups increasing the sites of adsorption. Compared to branched-chain OEEs, straight-chain OEEs exhibited reduced wear, which was mainly due to the thicker adsorption film formed by the straight-chain structure. Furthermore, carbon films were detected on lightly worn surfaces, indicating that OEEs underwent oxidation during the friction process. Based on the results of principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares (PLS), it could be found that the predictive models of viscosity–temperature performance, thermal stability performance, coefficient of friction (COF), and wear volume (WV) performed well and robustly. Among them, COF and WV can be best predicted with an R 2 of about 0.90.

ObjectiveTo examine the status and equity of human resource allocation (HRA) in centers for disease control and prevention (CDCs) at county-level in Chongqing municipality.MethodsAn online survey with a self-designed questionnaire was carried among 39 county-level CDCs in Chongqing municipality during May 2022 to collect information relevant to HRA of the CDCs during 2019 – 2021. A comprehensive score was adopted to evaluate the quality of staff of the 39 CDCs. County-specific population agglomeration degree (PAD) and health resource agglomeration degree (HRAD) were calculated and the deficit between the two values of the degree was used for assessment of HRA equity. ResultsThe total number of staff was 2 674, with an average number of 0.83 per 10 000 permanent population for the 39 county-level CDCs by the end of 2021. During the 3-year period for the 39 county-level CDCs, the total number of staff was 547 for the newly hired, 76 for the resigned, 120 for the retired, and 351 for the actually increased, respectively, and the mean comprehensive quality score for the actually increased staff was 8.7. The difference between HRAD and PAD was – 0.09 for all the 39 CDCs and – 1.68 for the CDCs in central urban region, indicating insufficient HRA. The 5 HRA-related matters most frequently proposed by the 39 CDCs included personnel benefits, team building, talent introduction, scientific research capability, and a good working atmosphere. ConclusionThe overall HRA in county-level CDCs in Chongqing municipality was insufficient and unbalanced, with generally lower comprehensive quality for the actually increased staff. The results suggest that HRA in county-level CDCs of Chongqing municipality needs to be improved.

Abstract Shopping malls are crowded areas which makes the evacuation routes unable to meet personnel evacuation needs. Therefore, this paper proposes the idea of using escalators evacuation to increasing evacuation routes. In addition, the effects of escalator fire shutters on the use of escalator evacuation paths, and the efficiency of mall personnel evacuation under different conditions were simulated. The results show that the different states of fire shutters have different effects on the emergency evacuation. When the fire shutter is not lowered, it will result in 1 person not being evacuated to complete. However, when the fire shutter is lowered to 1.8 m from the ground or sprinklers are set, escalators can be used for evacuation routes are verified. And compared to the normal descent of the fire shutter (only the staircase evacuation, 2 people not evacuate completed), the evacuation of people is completed and the efficiency of evacuation is improved. This result can improve the new evacuation model for emergency evacuation plans of shopping malls with escalators.

Abstract Preeclampsia (PE) is a significant threat to all pregnancies that is highly associated with maternal mortality and developmental disorders in infants. However, the etiopathogenesis of this condition remains unclear. This study aims to explore the regulatory roles of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and the mediated competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNA) in the etiopathogenesis of PE through analysis of lncRNA expression patterns in PE and healthy pregnant women (HPW), as well as the construction of lncRNA-mediated ceRNA regulatory networks using bioinformatics. A total of 896 significant differentially expressed lncRNAs, including 586 upregulated lncRNAs and 310 downregulated lncRNAs, were identified in comparison between PE and HPW. Analysis of these differential expressed lncRNAs revealed their predominant enrichment in molecular functions such as sphingosine-1-phosphate phosphatase activity, lipid phosphatase activity, phosphatidate phosphatase activity, thymidylate kinase activity, and UMP kinase activity. Moreover, these differential expressed lncRNAs were predominantly enriched in KEGG analyses such as fat digestion and absorption, lysine degradation, ether lipid metabolism, glycerolipid metabolism, and sphingolipid metabolism. Two ceRNA regulatory networks were constructed based on ceRNA score, including one that had 31 upregulated lncRNAs, 11 downregulated miRNAs, and 34 upregulated mRNAs, while the other contained 128 downregulated lncRNAs, 40 upregulated miRNAs, and 113 downregulated mRNAs. These results may provide a clue to explore the roles of lncRNAs in the etiopathogenesis of PE.

Abstract Background The cellular and molecular dynamics of human prepuce are crucial for understanding its biological and physiological functions, as well as the prevention of related genital diseases. However, the cellular compositions and heterogeneity of human prepuce at single-cell resolution are still largely unknown. Here we systematically dissected the prepuce of children and adults based on the single-cell RNA-seq data of 90,770 qualified cells. Results We identified 15 prepuce cell subtypes, including fibroblast, smooth muscle cells, T/natural killer cells, macrophages, vascular endothelial cells, and dendritic cells. The proportions of these cell types varied among different individuals as well as between children and adults. Moreover, we detected cell-type-specific gene regulatory networks (GRNs), which could contribute to the unique functions of related cell types. The GRNs were also highly dynamic between the prepuce cells of children and adults. Our cell–cell communication network analysis among different cell types revealed a set of child-specific (e.g., CD96, EPO, IFN-1, and WNT signaling pathways) and adult-specific (e.g., BMP10, NEGR, ncWNT, and NPR1 signaling pathways) signaling pathways. The variations of GRNs and cellular communications could be closely associated with prepuce development in children and prepuce maintenance in adults. Conclusions Collectively, we systematically analyzed the cellular variations and molecular changes of the human prepuce at single-cell resolution. Our results gained insights into the heterogeneity of prepuce cells and shed light on the underlying molecular mechanisms of prepuce development and maintenance.

In modern ecological systems, the overuse and misuse of antibiotics have escalated the prevalence of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and mobile genetic elements (MGEs), positioning them as emerging environmental contaminants. Notably, composting serves as a sustainable method to recycle agricultural waste into nutrient-rich fertilizer while potentially reducing ARGs and MGEs. This study conducted a 47-day composting experiment using pig manure and corn straw, supplemented with chitin and N-Acetyl-D-glucosamine, to explore the impact of these additives on the dynamics of ARGs and MGEs, and to unravel the interplay between these genetic elements and microbial communities in pig manure composting. Results showed that adding 5% chitin into composting significantly postponed thermophilic phase, yet enhanced the removal efficiency of total ARGs and MGEs by over 20% compared to the control. Additionally, the addition of N-Acetyl-D-glucosamine significantly increased the abundance of tetracycline-resistant and sulfonamide-resistant genes, as well as MGEs. High-throughput sequencing revealed that N-Acetyl-D-glucosamine enhanced bacterial α-diversity, providing diverse hosts for ARGs and MGEs. Resistance mechanisms, predominantly efflux pumps and antibiotic deactivation, played a pivotal role in shaping the resistome of composting process. Co-occurrence network analysis identified the key bacterial phyla Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Gemmatimonadota, and Myxococcota in ARGs and MGEs transformation and dissemination. Redundancy analysis indicated that physicochemical factors, particularly the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio emerged as critical variables influencing ARGs and MGEs. The findings lay a foundation for the developing microbial regulation method to reduce the risks of ARGs in animal manure composts.

BackgroundThe current rate of organ donation in China falls significantly below the global average and the actual demand. Nursing students play a crucial role in supporting and promoting social and public welfare activities. This study primary aims to analyze the levels of knowledge, attitudes, willingness toward organ donation, and attitudes toward death among nursing students, and investigate the mediating role of attitude in the relationship between knowledge and willingness. The secondary aims to identify factors that may influence the willingness.MethodsA convenience sample of nursing students completed online-administered questionnaires measuring the level of knowledge, attitudes, and willingness toward organ donation before and after clinical internship. Spearman correlation and mediation analyses were used for data analyses.ResultsBefore the clinical internship, there were 435 nursing students who had not yet obtained their degrees and were completing their clinical internships. After the internship, this number decreased to 323. The mean score for knowledge before and after the clinical internship (7.17 before and 7.22 after, with no significant difference), the attitude (4.58 before and 4.36 after, with significant difference), the willingness (12.41% before and 8.67% after, with significant difference), the Death Attitude Profile-Revised (DAP-R) score (94.41 before and 92.56 after, with significant difference). The knowledge indirectly affected nursing students’ willingness to organ donation through attitude. Knowledge had a direct and positive impact on attitudes (β = 1.564). Additionally, nursing students’ attitudes positively affected their willingness (β = 0.023). Attitudes played a mediating role in the relationship between knowledge and willingness (β = 0.035). Additionally, attitude toward death, fear of death, and acceptance of the concept of escape were found to be correlated with their willingness.ConclusionOrgan donation willingness was found to be low among nursing students. Positive attitudes were identified as a mediating factor between knowledge and willingness. Additionally, DAP-R was a related factor. Therefore, it is recommended to focus on improving knowledge and attitude, as well as providing death education to help nursing students establish a positive attitude toward death. These efforts can contribute to the promotion of organ donation.

ObjectiveTo systematically evaluate and explore the factors influencing depressive symptoms in female breast cancer patients in China through meta-analysis.MethodsRelevant data were retrieved from cross-sectional studies or cohort studies on depressive symptoms of Chinese breast cancer within the following databases: PubMed, Embase, Cohrane Library, Web of 105 Science, Database of Medical Literature (CBM), Wan Fang Data, CNKI, and VIP databases. The literature screening, data extraction and literature quality evaluation were performed by two researchers by carefully reading the title, abstract and full text, and meta-analysis was performed using Stata 1.5 software after extracting relevant data.ResultsFourteen papers were finally included, with a cumulative total of 3,071 people surveyed, and a total of 1,298 breast cancer patients were detected with depression, with a detection rate of depressive symptoms of 42.26%; meta analysis showed that age less than 40 years old, unmarried, less than undergraduate education, monthly income

BackgroundEvidence from observational studies suggested a connection between immune cells and gynecologic malignancies. To investigate potential causative associations between immunophenotype traits and gynecologic malignancies, we used a two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis.MethodsThe genetic instrumental variables of 731 immunophenotypes of peripheral blood were obtained by the GWAS database; the GWAS data of common gynecologic cancers were obtained from FinnGen study. The main statistic method was the inverse-variance weighted method. We also used the weighted mode, weighted median, and MR Egger for evaluations. The MR Steiger directionality test was further used to ascertain the reverse causal relationship between immune cells and gynecologic cancers.ResultsWe identified 50 highly probable immunophenotypes and 65 possible ones associated with gynecologic malignancies. The majority of the B cell panel was protective factors in cervical cancer. However, there was a correlation found in the B cells panel with a probable factor associated with an elevated risk of endometrial cancer. Immunophenotypes in the monocyte panel were linked to a lower probability of ovarian cancer and vulvar cancer. All of the gynecologic cancers in our study had no statistically significant impact on immune cells, according to reverse MR analysis.ConclusionOur study firstly emphasized the genetically predicted causality between immune cells and gynecologic malignancies. This knowledge will be critical to formulating the measures to prevent malignancies in female at risk in future clinical practice.

Aroma is a key indicator of the quality and value of Pu'er tea. A total of 36 aroma components were detected,which Saccharomyces, Rhizopus, and Aspergillus niger, were in the ratios of 2:1:2, 2:2:2, and 2:3:2 inoculated to ferment Pu’er tea, comparing with natural fermentation. In addition, 12 key aroma compounds were identified by analysing ROAVs. Methoxyphenyl compounds and β-ionone were the primary contributors to the formation of aged and woody aroma when fermenting Pu’er tea naturally or using Rhizopus, while linalool and its oxides, benzyl alcohol, hexanal, and limonene were the primary contributors to the formation of floral and fruity aroma when fermenting Pu’er tea using synergistic fermentation with Saccharomyces, Rhizopus, and Aspergillus niger. This study identified the key aroma components of the Pu’er tea fermented using five methods, which revealed and demonstrated the potential application of synergistic effects of different microorganisms in the changes of aroma of Pu’er tea.

In contemporary developments across automotive, aerospace, and military industries, there is an ever-growing demand for lightweight and robust polymer composites. In this study, a ductile epoxy resin, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), cellulose nanofibers (CNFs), and silica nanoparticles were used to fabricate nano-fillers/epoxy composites and nano-fillers/silk fibers/epoxy hybrid composites through solution casting and hot pressing. Their mechanical properties and thermal characteristics were analyzed and compared, which show that: these nano-fillers can dramatically enhance the strength and stiffness of the ductile epoxy resin; however, this is achieved at the expense of its toughness and extensibility. CNT/silk fiber/epoxy hybrid composite has the highest tensile strength (81.10 MPa), Young's modulus (3.76 GPa) and impact strength (103.7 kJ/m2), while the CNFs-reinforced one exhibits the highest breaking energy (9.96 MJ/m3). These nano-fillers almost do not affect the thermal stability of the epoxy resin and silk fiber composites. In addition, the fracture modes of their reinforced composites were revealed by macroscopic and microscopic observations.

Background Congenital heart disease (CHDs) is the major cause of mortality from birth defects, affecting up to 1% of live births worldwide. However, the relationship between aluminum (Al) and iron (Fe) levels and the risk of CHDs has yielded inconsistent results. Methods We conducted a pair-matched case–control study that included 97 CHDs and 194 non-CHDs to investigate the association and interaction between Al/Fe exposure and the risk of CHDs in a birth cohort study in Lanzhou, China. Results Higher concentrations of cord blood Al were associated with a greater risk of total CHDs (aOR = 2.826, 95% CI [1.009–7.266]) and isolated CHDs (aOR = 10.713, 95% CI [1.017–112.851]) compared to the lowest Al level. Both in maternal blood and cord blood, a significant dose-effect was observed between Al level and total CHDs (Ptrend < 0.05), but a similar pattern was not observed for Fe. High Al in addition to high Fe appeared to elicit a stronger association with CHDs than both lowest tertile of Al and Fe level in umbilical cord blood, particularly for multiple CHDs, septal defects and patent ductus arteriosus. Conclusions Our study suggests that exposure to Al during pregnancy (≥2,408 μg/L) is significantly associated with an increased risk of CHDs in offspring, especially septal defects, and that high levels of Al and Fe are strongly correlated with fetal heart development. Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms.

Abstract Aim The number of breast cancer patients is increasing, but there are insufficient sources of information for their family caregivers. The purpose of this systematic review was to elaborate the psychologically realistic experiences and corresponding needs of family members of patients with breast cancer in the course of their experience in the disease which may provide them with effective, targeted intervention strategies to improve their quality of life. Design Protocol for a meta‐synthesis. Methods We will search the Chinese databases (i.e., China National Knowledge Infrastructure, VIP Database and Wanfang Database) and the English databases (i.e., PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, CINAHL and PsycINFO). Qualitative studies from the above databases, studying the psychological experiences of family members of patients with breast cancer, will be searched comprehensively. The quality of the study will be evaluated by two reviewers independently using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tools for qualitative study, and any disagreements will be discussed and judged by the third reviewer. Data will be extracted using JBI standardized data extraction tool. Then, the literature will be compared and analysed, and the raw results summarized using the JBI meta‐aggregation tool. The reliability and credibility of the overall quality of the included studies will be assessed by using the JBI ConQual approach. Results N/A. No Patient or Public Contribution. PROSPERO registration number REDACTED.

Key aroma components of 33 fragrant peanut oils with different aroma types were screened by combined using flavoromics and machine learning. A total of 108 volatile compounds were identified and 100 kinds of them were accurately quantified, and 38 compounds out of them were with odorant activity value ≥1. The 33 peanut oils presented varied intensity of ‘fresh peanuts’, ‘roasted nut’, ‘burnt’, ‘over-burnt’, ‘sweet’, ‘peanut butter-like’, ‘puffed food’ and ‘exotic flavor’, and could be classified into four aroma types, namely raw, light, thick and salty. Partial least squares regression analysis, random forest and classification regression tree revealed that 2-acetyl pyrazine had a negative effect on ‘fresh peanuts’ and could distinguish raw flavor samples well; 2-methylbutanal and 4-vinylguaiacol were key compounds of ‘roasted nut’ and had significant differences (P

Abstract Background Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the major blinding eye diseases worldwide. Psychological, emotional and social problems of DR patients are prominent. The aim of this study is to explore the experiences of patients with different phases of DR from hospital to home based on the “Timing It Right” framework, and to provide a reference for formulating corresponding intervention strategies. Methods The phenomenological method and semi-structured interviews were used in this study. A total of 40 patients with DR in different phases were recruited from a tertiary eye hospital between April and August 2022. Colaizzi’s analysis method was used to analyse the interview data. Results Based on the “Timing It Right” framework, different experiences in five phases of DR before and after Pars Plana Vitrectomy (PPV) were extracted. The patients experienced complicated emotional reactions and inadequate coping skills during the pre-surgery phase, increased uncertainty during the post-surgery phase, insufficient confidence and the decision to change during the discharge preparation phase, eagerness for professional support and moving forward in exploration during the discharge adjustment phase, and courageous acceptance and positive integration during the discharge adaptation phase. Conclusion The experiences of DR patients with vitrectomy in different phases of disease are ever-changing, and medical staff should provide personalized support and guidance to help DR patients get through the hard times smoothly and enhance the quality of hospital-family holistic care.

Abstract The drying process of immersed lignite has a significant influence on the characteristics and progress of spontaneous combustion. To reveal the influence mechanism of the drying process of immersed coal on the spontaneous combustion characteristics and the change rule of the spontaneous combustion process, in this research, we measured the mass change during coal oxidation with thermogravimetry, and the change of the functional groups with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The influence of the drying process on the coal was analyzed by comparing activation energy, functional group of immersed coal with different drying degrees and raw coal. The results showed that, compared with raw coal, the content of Ar–C–O– and antisymmetric stretching vibration of the carboxylate group (–COO–) as well as the stretching vibration in the quinone group (C=O) and the –OH group increased. For the content of $$\delta s.{\text{RCH}}_{{3}}$$ δ s . RCH 3 , $$\delta as.{\text{R}}_{{2}} {\text{CH}}_{2}$$ δ a s . R 2 CH 2 $$\delta as.{\text{RCH}}_{{3}}$$ δ a s . RCH 3 , the value of Asym.CH2/Asym.CH3 decreased. The content of various functional groups changed to be favorable for oxidation and heat release. At different reaction stages, the activation energy was differently affected by the degree of drying. Average values of activation energies at different reaction stages are shown raw coal had the lowest activation energy. After soaking in water and drying, the activation energy of coal is increased to varying degrees, the reactivity is reduced, and the risk of spontaneous combustion is reduced. After soaking in water and drying, the activation energy of coal is increased to varying degrees, the reactivity is reduced, and the risk of spontaneous combustion is reduced. The activation energy of the coal samples dried for 24 h after soaking in water is the lowest among the coal samples dried for different times after soaking in water, and the moisture content is 10.5%.

Background There remain controversies over the conclusion of different serum phosphate levels as prognostic predictors of sepsis patients. As such, this study investigated the association between different serum phosphate and the prognosis of sepsis. Methods Data from PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were systematically retrieved from the inception of databases to June 1, 2023 and independently screened and extracted by two authors. Binary variables in the study were estimated as relative risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI), and continuous variables were estimated as mean and standard deviation. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was employed to evaluate the quality of the included studies, and subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis were performed for all outcomes to explore the sources of heterogeneity. Results Ten studies were included in this study including 38,320 patients with sepsis or septic shock. Against normal serum phosphate levels, a high serum phosphate level was associated with an elevated all-cause mortality risk (RR = 1.46; 95% CI [1.22–1.74]; P = 0.000) and prolonged Intensive Care Unit (ICU) length of stay (LOS) (WMD = 0.63; 95% CI [0.27–0.98]; P = 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in the in-hospital LOS (WMD = 0.22; 95% CI [−0.61–1.05]; P = 0.609). A low serum phosphate level was not significantly associated with the all-cause mortality risk (RR = 0.97; 95% CI [0.86–1.09]; P = 0.588), ICU LOS (WMD = −0.23; 95% CI [−0.75–0.29]; P = 0.394) and in-hospital LOS (WMD = −0.62; 95% CI [−1.72–0.49]; P = 0.274). Conclusion Sepsis patients with high serum phosphate levels before therapeutic interventions were associated with a significant increase in the all-cause mortality risk, prolonged ICU LOS, and no significant difference in in-hospital LOS. Sepsis patients with low serum phosphate levels before interventions may have a reduced risk of all-cause mortality, shorter ICU LOS, and in-hospital LOS, but the results were not statistically significant.

The production of peanut oil in the industrial sector necessitates the utilization of diverse raw materials to generate consistent batches with stable flavor profiles, thereby leading to an increased focus on understanding the correlation between raw materials and flavor characteristics. In this study, sensory evaluations, headspace solid-phase micro-extraction gas chromatography mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS), odor activity value (OAV) calculations, and correlation analysis were employed to investigate the flavors and main contributing amino acids of hot-pressed oils derived from different peanut varieties. The results confirmed that the levels of alcohols, aldehydes, and heterocyclic compounds in peanut oil varied among nine different peanut varieties under identical processing conditions. The OAVs of 25 key aroma compounds, such as methylthiol, 3-ethyl-2,5-dimethylpyrazine, and 2,3-glutarone, exceeded a value of 1. The sensory evaluations and flavor content analysis demonstrated that pyrazines significantly influenced the flavor profile of the peanut oil. The concentrations of 11 amino acids showed a strong correlation with the levels of pyrazines. Notably, phenylalanine, lysine, glutamic acid, arginine, and isoleucine demonstrated significant associations with both pyrazine and nut flavors. These findings will provide valuable insights for enhancing the sensory attributes of peanut oil and selecting optimal raw peanuts for its production.

Abstract Background Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is a severe idiopathic disorder of bile metabolism; however, the etiology and pathogenesis of ICP remain unclear. Aims This study comprehensively reviewed metabolomics studies related to ICP, to help in identifying the pathophysiological changes of ICP and evaluating the potential application of metabolomics in its diagnosis. Methods Relevant articles were searched through 2 online databases (PubMed and Web of Science) from January 2000 to March 2022. The metabolites involved were systematically examined and compared. Pathway analysis was conducted through the online software MetaboAnalyst 5.0. Results A total of 14 papers reporting 212 metabolites were included in this study. There were several highly reported metabolites: bile acids, such as glycocholic acid, taurochenodeoxycholic acid, taurocholic acid, tauroursodeoxycholic acid, and glycochenodeoxycholic acid. Dysregulation of metabolic pathways involved bile acid metabolism and lipid metabolism. Metabolites related to lipid metabolism include phosphatidylcholine, phosphorylcholine, phosphatidylserine, sphingomyelin, and ceramide. Conclusions This study provides a systematic review of metabolomics of ICP and deepens our understanding of the etiology of ICP.

Despite numerous studies on the response of vegetation change to climate variation, they have mainly been based on annual mean temperature and annual mean precipitation, and have failed to reveal the impact of climate on the inter-annual variation of vegetation in different geomorphic zones based on non-linear methods and considering daily low and high temperature. In this study, the effect of climate variation on the inter-annual variation of vegetation in different geomorphic zones along the area of t the Yangtze River Basin, China from 1982 to 2015 is revealed using Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition method. The results show that the inter-annual variation of vegetation is frequently fluctuating, mainly on a short time scale (3-year time scale), and its contribution gradually increases from 62.35% to 73.57% with increasing relief (from plain to high undulating mountain). The vegetation change of more than 75% of the areas is dominated by inter-annual variations, moreover, the vegetation change of the low relief areas is dominated by the 3-year timescale along with the long-term trend, while that of the other geomorphic zones is dominated by the 3-year timescale only. Inter-annual vegetation variation is positively related to precipitation and maximum temperature, but negatively related to mean temperature and minimum temperature in most areas, with area percentages of 67.20%, 86.55%, 65.38% and 75.02%. Inter-annual variation is mainly controlled by maximum temperature in most areas (54.77%). These results will deepen our understanding of the vegetation-climate relationship, suggesting that the responses of inter-annual variation in vegetation to climate vary not only on different time scales, but also in indifferent geomorphic zones.

Abstract Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)‐based biosensors have been developed to facilitate the rapid and sensitive detection of nucleic acids. However, most approaches using CRISPR‐based detection have disadvantages associated with the limitations of CRISPR RNA (crRNA), protospacer adjacent motif (PAM) or protospacer flanking sequence restriction, single channel detection, and difficulty in quantitative detection resulting in only some target sites being detected qualitatively. Here, we aimed to develop a barcode‐based Cas12a‐mediated DNA detection (BCDetection) strategy, which overcomes the aforementioned drawbacks and enables (1) detection with a universal PAM and crRNA without PAM or crRNA restriction, (2) simultaneous detection of multiple targets in a single reaction, and (3) quantitative detection, which can significantly distinguish copy number differences up to as low as a two‐fold limit. We could efficiently and simultaneously detect three β‐thalassemia mutations in a single reaction using BCDetection. Notably, samples from normal individuals, spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) carriers, and SMA patients were significantly and accurately distinguished using the quantitative detection ability of BCDetection, indicating its potential application in β‐thalassemia and SMA carrier screening. Therefore, our findings demonstrate that BCDetection provides a new platform for accurate and efficient quantitative detection using CRISPR/Cas12a, highlighting its bioanalytical applications.

Abstract Objective We and others have previously demonstrated that the size-selection enrichment method could remarkably improve fetal fraction (FF) in the early gestational age (GA, 12–13 weeks), suggesting that 9 or 10 weeks should not be used as a threshold for GA in size-selection noninvasive prenatal screening (NIPS). Here, we assessed whether this method was reliable for detecting fetal chromosomal aneuploidy at the earliest GA (6–8 weeks). Methods Size-selection NIPS for fetal chromosomal aneuploidy was applied to 208 pregnancy plasma samples (102 male and 106 female fetuses), while the 169 pregnancy samples with male fetuses also underwent standard NIPS. Multivariable linear regression models were used to evaluate the association between fold-change of FF and experimental factors. Results The sensitivity of the cell-free DNA (cfDNA) test in detecting aneuploidy was 100% when screened with FF enrichment, whereas the sensitivity of the same patients was only 62.5% (5/8) without FF enrichment. In the 102 pregnancy samples with male fetuses, FF increased from 6.1% to 15.7%, and the median increase in FF was 2.8-fold with enrichment. Moreover, there was a trend toward an increasing success rate of the cfDNA test from 6 to 13 weeks of gestation, especially when the test success rate reached 100% after 7 weeks with FF enrichment. Multivariate linear regression analysis demonstrated that a lower initial FF, shorter cfDNA size, increased body mass index (BMI), and later GA were all independent predictors of a higher fold-change of FF. Compared with ≤ 120 bp cfDNA fragments, the mean fold-change of FF differences was 0.820 for 121–125 bp, 0.229 for 126–130 bp, − 0.154 for 131–135 bp, − 0.525 for 136–140 bp and − 0.934 for > 140 bp (P trend 125 bp. These results were statistically significant after adjusting for confounding factors in the models for fold-change of FF. Conclusions The FF enrichment method is a reasonable strategy to detect fetal chromosomal aneuploidy in early pregnancy loss with reduced false negatives and increased test success rate after 7 weeks of GA and should be recommended for patients with early pregnancy loss.

Abstract The wind-induced fatigue is the main factor leading to reduction of the bearing capacity of long-span transmission towers. In order to reduce the harm of wind vibration, this paper takes the 500 kV Jiamusi region ISLSTT (in service long span transmission tower) as the research object, and a new kind of vibration reduction system is proposed based on a steel wire rope damping structure, with which the vibration characteristics of ISLSTT is analyzed. Firstly, the layout and components of the new vibration reduction system are described, and the damping performance of which is verified and analyzed by finite element method. Secondly, the nonlinear finite element dynamic simulation model of ISLSTT with the new vibration reduction system is established, and the multi-dimensional fluctuating wind speed time history satisfying Davenport wind speed spectrum is given by harmonic superposition method in the time domain. Based on the Bernoulli theorem, the corresponding time history of wind pressure is obtained, and the random wind load is applied to the finite element model to verify the feasibility and efficient of the new vibration reduction system. Finally, the aero-elastic wind tunnel test model of ISLSTT with the new vibration reduction system is built, and the time history curves of stress and acceleration at key points under different wind directions are obtained. By comparing with the un-damped system, it is demonstrated that the average damping efficiency of this method in the scale of stress and acceleration is 72.88% and 77.17%, respectively. The simulation and wind tunnel test results also demonstrate that the vibration reduction system based on wire rope damping structure can effectively reduce the vibration of ISLSTT caused by the non-uniformity of wind speed. The research results lay a solid foundation for the vibration reduction design of in service long span tower-line system in future.

Using mesoscale numerical forecasting model WRF and National Centers for Environmental Prediction （NCEP） reanalysis data， two persistent sea fog events on 17-20 February 2018 and 4-6 February 2019 over Qiongzhou strait were simulated.Combined with visibility data of CMA Land Data Assimilation System， satellite and ground observations， the weather background， maintenance and development， water vapor transport， dynamic condition and cloud-fog structure of two sea fog processes were compared and analyzed.The results indicated that both persistent sea fog cases occurred at the back of denatured cold high moving in to the sea.During the 2018 sea fog events period， easterly water vapor convergence was strong， the high relative humidity in the lower layer was deep.The increasing relative humidity and strong water vapor convergence caused the advection fog last for more than 10 hours， with a minimum visibility of 100 m.Meanwhile， the mid-level cloud coexist with sea fog could reduce the shortwave radiation received by the ground in the daytime and weaken the warming effect， while played a role in heat preservation at night making surface-based lower temperature and inversion layer stability maintenance.Thus， the presence of clouds above the fog had a great effects on the maintenance and development of the lasting fog event.During the 2019 sea fog events period， the southeast water vapor convergence was weak， the high relative humidity was shallow， the sea fog with small area in Qiongzhou Strait developed first from inland， and dissipated after sunset.

In this paper, a microheater that can absorb thermal stress and has a large heating area is demonstrated by optimizing the structure and process of the microheater. Four symmetrically distributed elongated support beam structures were machined around the microheater via deep silicon etching. This design efficiently mitigates the deformation of the heated region caused by thermal expansion and enhances the structural stability of the microheater. The updated microheater no longer converts the work area into a thin film; instead, it creates a stable heating platform that can uniformly heat a work area measuring 10 × 10 mm2. The microheater is verified to have high temperature uniformity and structural stability in finite element simulation. Finally, thorough investigations of electrical–thermal–structural characterization were conducted. The test findings show that the new microheater can achieve 350 °C with a power consumption of 6 W and a thermal reaction time of 22 s. A scan of its whole plane reveals that the surface of the working area of the new microheater is flat and does not distort in response to variations in temperature, offering good structural stability.

Abstract Detection of acoustic tonals from surfaces and underwater vehicles is important for passive sonar systems. Enhancements of the tonals are usually necessary in passive sonar prior to detections. Conventionally, passive sonars employ adaptive line enhancers (ALE) in order to realise enhancements of the tonals. However, ALEs have requirements on their input signal‐to‐noise ratios (SNR). When the SNR inputs are too low, the ALEs cannot perform well. Therefore, for the purpose of overcoming the limitations of the SNR inputs to ALEs, this study proposes to enhance tonals using unsupervised deep‐learning techniques. The proposed deep‐learning‐based line enhancer (DLE) is based on an autoencoder neural network. The simulation results show that when the input SNR is −28 dB, the proposed DLE still achieves an SNR gain of 15 dB. However, the reference ALE fails. The experimental results also demonstrate the superiority of the proposed DLE.

To sustain normal growth and allow rapid responses to environmental cues, plants alter the plasma membrane protein composition under different conditions presumably by regulation of delivery, stability, and internalization. Exocytosis is a conserved cellular process that delivers proteins and lipids to the plasma membrane or extracellular space in eukaryotes. The octameric exocyst complex contributes to exocytosis by tethering secretory vesicles to the correct site for membrane fusion; however, whether the exocyst complex acts universally for all secretory vesicle cargo or just for specialized subsets used during polarized growth and trafficking is currently unknown. In addition to its role in exocytosis, the exocyst complex is also known to participate in membrane recycling and autophagy. Using a previously identified small molecule inhibitor of the plant exocyst complex subunit EXO70A1, Endosidin2 (ES2), combined with a plasma membrane enrichment method and quantitative proteomic analysis, we examined the composition of plasma membrane proteins in the root of Arabidopsis seedlings, after inhibition of the ES2-targetted exocyst complex, and verified our findings by live imaging of GFP-tagged plasma membrane proteins in root epidermal cells. The abundance of 145 plasma membrane proteins was significantly reduced following short-term ES2 treatments and these likely represent candidate cargo proteins of exocyst-mediated trafficking. Gene Ontology analysis showed that these proteins play diverse functions in cell growth, cell wall biosynthesis, hormone signaling, stress response, membrane transport, and nutrient uptake. Additionally, we quantified the effect of ES2 on the spatial distribution of EXO70A1 with live-cell imaging. Our results indicate that the plant exocyst complex mediates constitutive dynamic transport of subsets of plasma membrane proteins during normal root growth.

IntroductionPu-erh tea is a geographical indication product of China. The characteristic flavor compounds produced during the fermentation of ripened Pu-erh tea have an important impact on its quality.MethodsHeadspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) and odor activity value (OAV) is used for flavor analysis.ResultsA total of 135 volatile compounds were annotated, of which the highest content was alcohols (54.26%), followed by esters (16.73%), and methoxybenzenes (12.69%). Alcohols in ripened Pu-erh tea mainly contribute flower and fruit sweet flavors, while methoxybenzenes mainly contribute musty and stale flavors. The ripened Pu-erh tea fermented by Saccharomyces: Rhizopus: Aspergillus niger mixed in the ratio of 1:1:1 presented the remarkable flavor characteristics of flower and fruit sweet flavor, and having better coordination with musty and stale flavor.DiscussionThis study demonstrated the content changes of ripened Pu-erh tea’s flavor compounds in the fermentation process, and revealed the optimal fermentation time. This will be helpful to further understand the formation mechanism of the characteristic flavor of ripened Pu-erh tea and guide the optimization of the fermentation process of ripened Pu-erh tea.

Abstract Background Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is defined as a fetus that fails to achieve its genetically determined growth potential. The exact molecular mechanisms of placental insufficiency IUGR pathogenesis are a little known. Our goal was to identify key genes and gene co-expression modules related to placental insufficiency IUGR. Methods We used weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis to examine the IUGR dataset GSE114691 from NCBI Gene Expression Omnibus. Core modules and hub nodes of the protein-protein interaction network were identified. A gene network was constructed and genes were classified by WGCNA into different modules. The validation of potential key genes was carried out using additional datasets (GSE12216 and GSE24129). Results We identified in GSE114691 539 down regulated genes and 751 up regulated genes in placental tissues characteristic of placental insufficiency IUGR compared with non-IUGR, and defined 76 genes as hub nodes in the protein-protein interaction network. Genes in the key modules of the WGCNA network were most closely associated with placental insufficiency IUGR and significantly enriched in biological process such as cellular metabolic process and macromolecule metabolic process. We identified as key genes TGFB1, LEP, ENG, ITGA5, STAT5A, LYN, GATA3, FPR1, TGFB2, CEBPB, KLF4, FLT1, and PNPLA2. The RNA expression levels of ENG and LEP, as biomarkers, were validated. Conclusion A holistic gene expression profile of placental insufficiency IUGR has been generated and the key genes ENG and LEP has potential to serve as circulating diagnosis biomarkers and therapeutic targets for placental insufficiency IUGR.

Silk fibers were produced by feeding Bombyx mori silkworm larvae with a modified feed of mulberry leaves containing nano Fe3O4 particles. The silkworms were weighed to determine the effect of nano Fe3O4 particles on the growth of larvae. The effects of nano Fe3O4 contents on the morphologies, chemical structures, mechanical properties, and thermal properties of silk were also investigated, respectively. The results indicate that the nano Fe3O4 particles was embedded in the silk. Additionally, the stress and toughness of modified silk were enhanced, as compared with the normal silk. Finally, the integration of the amide I band intensities suggests a relatively high content of β-sheet in the modified silk.