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Pyroptosis, a programmed cell death process, is vital for the immune response against microbial infections and internal danger signals. Recent studies have highlighted the importance of protein palmitoylation, a modification that involves attaching palmitate to cysteine residues, in regulating key proteins involved in pyroptosis. Palmitoylation of cGAS at residue C474 by ZDHHC18 affects its enzymatic activity and DNA binding ability. Similarly, ZDHHC9 promotes cGAS activity through palmitoylation at residues C404/405. NLRP3 palmitoylation at residue C844, mediated by ZDHHC12, impacts its stability and interactions with other proteins, crucial for activating the NLRP3 inflammasome and triggering inflammation. However, the role of ZDHHC5 in NLRP3 palmitoylation remains uncertain due to conflicting findings. Palmitoylation at C88/91 is essential for STING activation and induction of type I interferons. It modulates the formation of multimeric complexes and downstream signaling pathways. GSDMD palmitoylation at C191 is necessary for pore formation and membrane translocation, while GSDME palmitoylation at C407/408 is associated with drug-induced pyroptosis. Moreover, palmitoylation of NOD1 and NOD2 influences their membrane recruitment and immune signaling pathways in response to bacterial peptidoglycans, acting as upstream regulators of pyroptosis. This review summarizes the important roles for palmitoylation in regulating the function of key pyroptosis-related proteins, shedding light on the intricate mechanisms governing immune responses and inflammation. • cGAS undergoes palmitoylation. • STING palmitoylation is crucial for pyroptosis. • NLRP3 palmitoylation is important for pyroptosis. • ZDHHC5-mediated palmitoylation of NOD1/2 is crucial for pyroptosis. • Palmitoylation of GSDMD and GSDME is essential for pyroptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The most common causes of plantar and heel pain are plantar fasciitis and calcaneal spurs, and they often co‐exist. Surgery is a recognized treatment for refractory plantar fasciitis. However, few studies have proposed treatment options for patients with metatarsophalangeal fasciitis with bone spurs. Accordingly, this study's purpose was to propose a four‐step surgical regimen, and to improve the surgical outcome of plantar fasciitis with osteophytes and to establish a procedure for surgical treatment. Methods: Retrospective analysis of 45 patients suffering from plantar fasciitis with bone spurs from 2020 to 2023. All patients underwent a four‐step procedure, including plantar fascia release, calcaneal spur grinding, inflammatory tissue removal, and calcaneal burr decompression. The imaging parameters and functional scores were recorded before and after the operation. The objective evaluation included the measurement of calcaneal spur length on radiographs. Clinical evaluation included the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS), the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and the Foot and Ankle Outcome Scale (FAOS). Measurement data that conformed to normal distribution were expressed as (x2 ± s), and pre‐and postoperative AOFAS, FAOS, and VAS scores were compared using repeated‐measures ANOVA, and preoperative and postoperative spur lengths were compared using paired t‐tests. Results: The 45 patients were followed up for 3 to 30 months, (17.72 ± 8.53) months, at final follow‐up, the patient's AOFAS score improved from preoperative (74.93 ± 5.56) to (94.78 ± 3.98), FAOS score increased from preoperative (76.42 ± 3.37) to (96.16 ± 2.74), the VAS score decreased from (3.18 ± 0.54) to (1.07 ± 1.20) (p < 0.05), the length of spur decreased from (0.72 ± 1.81) cm to (0.23 ± 1.19) cm, and there were significant differences before and after operation (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The four‐step surgical regimen is an appropriate and effective surgical procedure to treat plantar fasciitis with bone spurs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Researchers are showing a great deal of interest in hydrogels due to the presence of high-water content, self-healing variants. Despite this, research into the development of smart hydrogels that have the combination of toughness, self-healing, and responsiveness to external stimuli is still lacking. Here, tough, and intelligent nanocomposite (NC) hydrogels have been developed by utilizing modified nano-crosslinker by means of gold-selenium (Au-Se) coordination interaction. The NC hydrogels demonstrate remarkable elasticity and strength, even when exposed to notches. With the optimal formulation, the nanocomposite hydrogel can achieve a maximum elongation of 1970%, a maximum fracture stress of 2.48 MPa, and a toughness of up to 9.95 MJ/m3, thanks to the dynamic gold crosslinks with improved branching. The presence of this structural attributes facilitates efficient energy dissipation within the hydrogel system. Combining Au-Se interaction as a healing element and the remarkable optothermal effect of nanoparticles, NC hydrogels can be quickly self-healed in near-infrared light exposure of 2 min, achieving a self-healing efficiency of 91%. Additionally, the hydrogels demonstrate repair potential when exposed to microwave irradiation, acid solution, and ultrasound stimulus. Moreover, a multi-responsive hydrogel composed of photothermal gold nanostructures can serve as a light-controlled drug carrier, which has smart drug release ability under external light stimulation. The advantageous properties of hydrogel make it a great option for biomedical and engineering fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 2-distance coloring of a graph is a proper k-coloring in which any two vertices with distance at most two get different colors. The 2-distance number is the smallest number k such that G has a 2-distance k-coloring, denoted as χ2(G). In 1977, Wegner conjectured that for each planar graph G with maximum degree Δ, χ2(G) ≤ 7 if Δ ≤ 3, χ2(G) ≤ Δ + 5 if 4 ≤ Δ ≤ 7, and χ2(G) ≤⌊3Δ 2 ⌋ + 1 if Δ ≥ 8. In 2001, Thomassen supported the conjecture by proving the case Δ = 3. The conjecture is still open even for Δ = 4. In this paper, we show that χ2(G) ≤ 17 for the case Δ ≤ 5 which improves the upper bound 18 recently obtained by Hou et al. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A coffee-certified reference material (CRM) for ochratoxin A, B, and C (OTA, OTB, and OTC) was created to improve the precision and reliability of these toxins. A collection of 100 bottles (each containing 10 g) of the CRM candidate for OTA, OTB, and OTC was produced by applying a mixed standard solution of OTA, OTB, and OTC to moderately roasted beans that subsequently ground and homogenized. Moreover, considering the intricate matrix interference in coffee, a rapid and sensitive method for OTA, OTB, and OTC in coffee was developed with minimal matrix effects. This approach employed liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry and mixed purification materials (C18 and hydroxylated multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), OH-MWCNTs) for the analysis. Based on the standards GB/T 15000.3-2008/ISO Guide 35: 2017, the CRM demonstrated robust uniformity and stability when stored for 14 d at 4, 20, and 40 °C, and 12 months at −20 °C. Eight laboratories were employed to characterize the CRM. The certified values for OTA, OTB, and OTC in coffee were established to be 15.2 ± 0.4, 12.8 ± 0.4, and 3.4 ± 0.1 μg/kg (with a coverage factor k = 2, representing an approximate 95% confidence interval). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional methods for inhibiting browning in wine are not suitable for cili (Roxburgh rose) wine, which is naturally rich in ascorbic acid and subject to restrictions on SO2 addition. In this study, the capacity of various additives to suppress the browning of cili wine caused by ascorbic acid degradation was investigated. SO2, pure reduced glutathione (GSH), regular inactive dry yeast (IDY), and IDY with various levels of glutathione enrichment (g‐IDY) were separately introduced into cili wine following the completion of alcoholic fermentation. Over a period of 12 months, the color parameters, levels of ascorbic acid, phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, and GSH content of the aged cili wine were analyzed. Among the investigated additives, g‐IDY exhibited the strongest inhibitory effect on browning. Moreover, adding 800 mg L−1 g‐IDY increased the total reducing power and residual GSH content by factors of 1.52 and 2.44, respectively, with respect to those of the SO2‐treated cili wine, thus enhancing its antioxidant capacity. Using ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry analysis, a total of 22 monomeric phenolic compounds were identified. After g‐IDY treatment, the contents of 15 easily oxidizable o‐diphenols decreased, preventing the depletion of ascorbic acid as an antioxidant. As a result, the levels of ascorbic acid and total phenolics were 1.5‐fold and 1.17‐fold higher than those in the SO2‐treated wine, respectively. This study demonstrates that g‐IDY provides a new approach to preventing the browning of wine caused by ascorbic acid degradation. Practical Application: Cili wine, characterized by its high ascorbic acid content, can decelerate cellular senescence and bolster immune function, which has contributed to its popularity. Ascorbic acid, a potent antioxidant, can be spiked into white wines to significantly enhance their antioxidative properties. Nevertheless, the high ascorbic acid content in cili wine renders it susceptible to oxidation under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions, which alters the wine's hue from golden to dark brown, thus diminishing its commercial value. Overcoming this browning associated with ascorbic acid degradation is therefore of considerable importance and could facilitate the advancement of the cili industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on studying the optimization problem of multi-agent systems (MAS) under undirected graph. To reduce the communication frequency among agents, a zero-gradient-sum (ZGS) algorithm based on dynamic event-triggered (DET) mechanism is investigated. The event-triggered condition of each agent only uses its own state information and the neighbor's state information at the previous triggering instants, without requiring continuous state information from the neighbor. In addition, the designed algorithm allows for the sampling period to be arbitrarily large. The Lyapunov method is utilized to derive the sufficient conditions that incorporate time delay and parameters. As the event is only checked at the periodic moment, zeno behavior can be directly excluded. Finally, numerical simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of the theoretical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterostructures endow electrochemical hybrids with promising energy storage properties owing to synergistic effects and interfacial interaction. However, developing a facile but effective approach to maximize interface effects is crucial but challenging. Herein, a bimetallic selenide heterostructure is realized in a confined carbon network via an in situ electrochemical strategy to induce highly active and stable electrode architecture. The dynamically formed heterostructures upon repeated delithiation/lithiation process not only yield abundant interconnected SnSe2/FeSe2 heterojunctions with continuous channels for ion/electron transfer but maintain excellent conversion reversibility. Serving as anode for lithium storage, the SnSe2/FeSe2@C framework enables a high discharging capacity of 1781.9 mAh g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 after 500 cycles and superior cycling stability (no capacity fade after 1200 cycles at 2 A g−1). This study can guide future design protocols for interface engineering through the formation of dynamic channels of conversion reaction kinetics for potential applications in high‐performance electrodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iodine, primarily in the form of iodide (I−), is the bioavailable form for the thyroid in the human body. Both deficiency and excess intake of iodide can lead to serious health issues, such as thyroid disease. Selecting iodide ions among anions has been a significant challenge for decades due to interference from other anions. In this study, we designed and synthesized a new pincer-type acridine–triazole fluorescent probe (probe 1) with an acridine ring as a spacer and a triazole as a linking arm attached to two naphthol groups. This probe can selectively recognize iodide ions in a mixed solvent of THF/H2O (v/v, 9/1), changing its color from colorless to light yellow, making it suitable for highly sensitive and selective colorimetric and fluorescent detection in water systems. We also synthesized another molecular tweezer-type acridine–triazole fluorescent probe (probe 2) that exhibits uniform detection characteristics for iodide ions in the acetonitrile system. Interestingly, compared to probe 2, probe 1 can be detected by the naked eye due to its circulation effect, providing a simple method for iodine detection. The detection limit of probe 1 is determined to be 10−8 mol·L−1 by spectrometric titration and isothermal titration calorimetry measurements. The binding stoichiometry between probe 1 and iodide ions is calculated to be 1:1 by these methods, and the binding constant is 2 × 105 mol·L−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a switched capacitor-based soft-switching proportional dimming LED driver to address color-mixing LED applications. The driver utilizes a half-bridge switch structure and incorporates a switched capacitor to regulate the dual resonant network. This configuration facilitates current sharing across each resonant network and enables fixed proportion dimming between them. The common inductance leveraged in this design results in fewer switching devices, thereby enhancing efficiency. Furthermore, all switches and diodes achieve soft switching, contributing to high efficiency. Finally, this paper built a 19 W experimental prototype, and the maximum efficiency reached 95.56%, which verified the correctness and feasibility of the driver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrodynamic cavitation, which occurs when the local pressure is below the saturated vapor pressure in hydrodynamic flow, is ubiquitous in fluid dynamics and implicated in a myriad of industrial and biomedical applications. Although extensively studied in isotropic liquids, corresponding investigations in anisotropic liquids are largely lacking. In this paper, the hydrodynamic cavitation in the bluff body bypass flow of nematic liquid crystal 5CB in the microchannel is experimentally investigated. By 5CB, we mean the thermotropic liquid crystal 4′-pentyl-4-biphenylcarbonitrile. When the Reynolds number is in the range of 3 × 10−4 < Re < 1.2 × 10−3, a special flow phenomenon behind the bluff body is observed, namely, the disclination loop. The critical Reynolds number of cavitation inception varies with the shape of the bluff body, while the lowest value corresponds to the triangular bluff body. The hydrodynamic cavitation occurs in the Stokes flow regime with the Reynolds number significantly lower than 0.1 for all bluff bodies. There is a close relation between the oscillation behavior of cavitation domains and the structure of the bluff body. In addition, the pressure difference between the inlet and outlet of the microchannel shows linear relation with the Reynolds number rather than the quadratic relation for isotropic fluids, which proves the presence of shear thinning in the flow of nematic liquid crystals. The study in this paper on the hydrodynamic cavitation of nematic liquid crystal can broaden the research on providing new approaches for the enhancement of fluid mixing and heat transfer in microfluidic chips. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the synthesis of isocoumarins using Rhodium (Rh) complexes as catalysts. The authors explore the use of phenacyl phosphoniums and iodonium ylides as building blocks in this process. They present their experimental findings, optimization of reaction conditions, and the scope of the reaction with various phenacyl phosphoniums. The research provides valuable insights into the synthesis of isocoumarins using Rh-catalyzed C-H activation. Additionally, the document provides detailed information on the synthesis and characterization of specific compounds, including their chemical structures, yields, physical properties, and spectroscopic data. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Small animal irradiation is essential to study the radiation response of new interventions before or parallel to human therapy. Image‐guided radiotherapy (IGRT) and intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) are recently adopted in small animal irradiation to more closely mimic human treatments. However, sophisticated techniques require exceedingly high time, resources, and expertize that are often impractical. Purpose: We propose a high throughput and high precision platform named Multiple Mouse Automated Treatment Environment (Multi‐MATE) to streamline image‐guided small animal irradiation. Methods: Multi‐MATE consists of six parallel and hexagonally arranged channels, each equipped with a transfer railing, a 3D‐printed immobilization pod, and an electromagnetic control unit, computer‐controlled via an Arduino interface. The mouse immobilization pods are transferred along the railings between the home position outside the radiation field and the imaging/irradiation position at the irradiator isocenter. All six immobilization pods are transferred to the isocenter in the proposed workflow for parallel CBCT scans and treatment planning. The immobilization pods are then sequentially transported to the imaging/therapy position for dose delivery. The positioning reproducibility of Multi‐MATE are evaluated using CBCT and radiochromic films. Results: While parallelizing and automating the image‐guided small animal radiation delivery, Multi‐MATE achieved the average pod position reproducibility of 0.17 ± 0.04 mm in the superior–inferior direction, 0.20 ± 0.04 mm in the left–right direction, and 0.12 ± 0.02mm in the anterior–posterior direction in repeated CBCT tests. Additionally, in image‐guided dose delivery tasks, Multi‐MATE demonstrated the positioning reproducibility of 0.17 ± 0.06 mm in the superior–inferior direction, 0.19 ± 0.06 mm in the left–right direction. Conclusions: We designed, fabricated, and tested a novel automated irradiation platform, Multi‐MATE to accelerate and automate image‐guided small animal irradiation. The automated platform minimizes human operation and achieves high setup reproducibility and image‐guided dose delivery accuracy. Multi‐MATE thus removes a major barrier to implementing high‐precision preclinical radiation research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The 3D PdCu nanostars were prepared by a one-pot wet-chemical approach. • The Cu2+ concentrations were critical to obtain 3D nanostars architectures. • The PdCu nanostars showed excellent catalytic performances for EGOR and GOR. • The excellent catalysis preference is ascribed to the unique structures and the synergistic effect of the bimetals. The fabrication of effective and stable electrocatalysts is crucial for practical applications of direct alcohol fuel cells (DAFCs). In this study, bimetallic PdCu nanostars (PdCu NSs) were fabricated by a Cu2+-modulated one-pot wet-chemical method, where cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) worked as a structure-regulating reagent. The morphology, compositions, crystal structures and formation mechanism of the as-prepared PdCu NSs were investigated by a series of techniques. The unique architectures created abundant active sites, which resulted in a large electrochemical active surface area (9.5 m2 g−1). The PdCu NSs showed negative shifts in the onset potentials and large forward peak current densities by contrast with those of commercial Pd black for the catalytic ethylene glycol oxidation reaction (EGOR) and glycerol oxidation reaction (GOR). It revealed that the PdCu NSs outperformed Pd black in the similar surroundings. This work provides a constructive strategy for fabrication of high-efficiency electrocatalysts for alcohol fuel cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The number of pollen grains is a critical determinant of reproductive success in seed plants and varies among species and individuals. However, in contrast with many mutant‐screening studies relevant to anther and pollen development, the natural genetic basis for variations in pollen number remains largely unexplored. To address this issue, we carried out a genome‐wide association study in maize, ultimately revealing that a large presence/absence variation in the promoter region of ZmRPN1 alters its expression level and thereby contributes to pollen number variation. Molecular analyses showed that ZmRPN1 interacts with ZmMSP1, which is known as a germline cell number regulator, and facilitates ZmMSP1 localization to the plasma membrane. Importantly, ZmRPN1 dysfunction resulted in a substantial increase in pollen number, consequently boosting seed production by increasing female–male planting ratio. Together, our findings uncover a key gene controlling pollen number, and therefore, modulation of ZmRPN1 expression could be efficiently used to develop elite pollinators for modern hybrid maize breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Activated phosphoinositide3-kinase (PI3K) δ syndrome 1 (APDS1) is a novel inborn errors of immunity (IEIs) caused by heterozygous gain of function mutations in PI3Kδ catalytic p110δ (PIK3CD). APDS1 has a spectrum of clinical manifestations. Recurrent respiratory infections, lymphoproliferation, hepatosplenomegaly, hyper-IgM syndrome and autoimmunity are the common symptoms of this disease. Case Presentation: Patient 1 presented with recurrent respiratory infections, hepatosplenomegaly and hyper-IgM syndrome. Patient 2 developed early onset systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)-like disease with resistant thrombocytopenia. c.3061 G > A and c.2314G > A variants in the PIK3CD gene were detected by whole exome sequencing in two patients respectively. c.2314G > A variant in PIK3CD gene of patient 2 is a newly report. After genetic diagnosis, two patients received sirolimus treatment and sirolimus alleviated clinical manifestations, including hepatosplenomegaly in patient 1 and thrombocytopenia in patient 2. Conclusion: Genetics diagnosis should be considered in patients with complicated clinical manifestations with no or insufficient response to the conventional therapies. If whole exome sequencing suggests a variant in PIK3CD gene, sirolimus may relieve hepatosplenomegaly and resistant thrombocytopenia. This is the first report of c.2314G > A variant in PIK3CD gene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses a case of spontaneous vaginal cuff dehiscence with evisceration in a woman with vaginal vault prolapse five years after a hysterectomy. Vaginal cuff dehiscence is a rare but serious complication of hysterectomy, usually occurring shortly after the surgery. However, there is still a risk of late-onset vaginal cuff dehiscence, particularly in postmenopausal women with vault prolapse. The article describes the patient's case, including her medical history and the surgical procedure used to repair the dehiscence. It also discusses the risk factors and treatment options for vaginal cuff dehiscence. [Extracted from the article]

Parenteral nutrition, received by many patients with intestinal failure, can induce hepatobiliary complications, which is termed as parenteral nutrition‐associated liver disease (PNALD). The spectrum of PNALD ranges from cholestasis and steatosis to fibrosis and cirrhosis. Although many factors contribute to the pathogenesis of PNALD, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we performed targeted metabolomics to characterize the metabolomic profile in neonatal piglets receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN) or enteral nutrition (EN) for 1 or 2 weeks. Overall, the metabolomic signature of TPN groups differed from EN groups at both time points. Among the 20 acylcarnitines identified, a majority of them were significantly reduced in TPN groups. KEGG pathway analysis showed that phenylalanine metabolism‐associated pathways were dysregulated accompanied by more progressive liver steatosis associated with TPN. Next, we evaluated phenylalanine catabolism and its association with fatty acid oxidation in piglets and rats with PNALD. We showed that the hepatic expression of phenylalanine‐degrading enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) was reduced and systemic phenylalanine levels were increased in both animal models of PNALD. Moreover, carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A, a central regulator of fatty acid oxidation, was downregulated and its expression was negatively correlated with phenylalanine levels in TPN‐fed animals. To explore the effects of phenylalanine accumulation on lipid metabolism, we treated HepG2 cells with phenylalanine co‐cultured with sodium palmitate or soybean oil emulsion to induce lipid accumulation. We found that phenylalanine treatment exacerbated lipid accumulation by inhibiting fatty acid oxidation without affecting fatty acid synthesis. In summary, our findings establish a pathogenic role of increased phenylalanine levels in driving liver steatosis, linking dysregulation of phenylalanine catabolism with lipid accumulation in the context of PNALD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myocardial infarction (MI) contributes to an increased risk of incident heart failure and sudden death, but there is still a lack of effective treatment in clinic. Recently, growing evidence has indicated that abnormal expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) plays a crucial role in cardiovascular diseases. In this research, the involvement of miRNA-214-3p in MI was explored. A mouse model of MI was established by ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery, and primary cultures of neonatal rat cardiomyocytes (NRCMs) were submitted to hypoxic treatment to stimulate cellular injury in vitro. Our results showed that miR-214-3p level was significantly upregulated in the infarcted region of mouse hearts and in NRCMs exposed to hypoxia, accompanying with an obvious elevation of ferroptosis. Inhibition of miR-214-3p by antagomir injection improved cardiac function, decreased infarct size, and attenuated iron accumulation and oxidant stress in myocardial tissues. MiR-214-3p could also promote ferroptosis and cellular impairments in NRCMs, while miR-214-3p inhibitor effectively protected cells from hypoxia. Furthermore, dual luciferase reporter gene assay revealed that malic enzyme 2 (ME2) is a direct target of miR-214-3p. In cardiomyocytes, overexpression of ME2 ameliorated the detrimental effects and excessive ferroptosis induced by miR-214-3p mimic, whereas ME2 depletion compromised the protective role of miR-214-3p inhibitor against hypoxic injury and ferroptosis. These findings suggest that miR-214-3p contributes to enhanced ferroptosis during MI at least partially via suppressing ME2. Inhibition of miR-214-3p may be a new approach for tackling MI. • MiR-214-3p is upregulated in MI mice hearts and hypoxic cardiomyocytes. • Inhibition of miR-214-3p protects mice against MI injury and attenuates ferroptosis. • ME2 is identified as a downstream effector miR-214-3p. • MiR-214-3p induces ferroptosis by suppressing ME2, thereby contributing to MI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, theoretical modeling and vibration characteristics of a spinning double-blade beam assembly restricted by elastic supports are studied. Graphene nanoplatelet (GPL) reinforcement and porous foamed metal matrix are adopted to make up the assembly structure. Due to the nonuniformity of the porosity and graphene nanofillers, the material properties of the attached blades and beam are considered to change along the blade thickness and beam radius, respectively. They are obtained via the rule of mixture, the open-cell scheme and the Halpin-Tsai micromechanics model. These attached blades and beam are modeled in accordance with the Euler-Bernoulli beam theory and the Rayleigh beam theory, respectively. Via employing the Lagrange's equation, the equations of motion of the double-blade beam are derived. Then, the natural frequencies of the spinning nanocomposite double-blade beam are calculated by the substructure modal synthesis method and the assumed modes method. A detailed parameter analysis is performed to study the influences of dimension, distribution pattern and weight fraction of GPLs, distribution and coefficient of porosity, length and location of the blades, stiffness and location of supports, and spinning speed on the mechanical behaviors of the double-blade beam assembly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adsorption is an effective method to remove cesium and strontium from a solution. Although a variety of adsorbents has been reported, it is difficult to compare their adsorption properties due to different experimental conditions (such as solution concentration, volume, composition, temperature, etc.). In this paper, a series of adsorbents for the adsorption of cesium and strontium (ammonium phosphomolybdate, Prussian blue, sabite, clinoptilolite, titanium silicate) were synthesized and characterized using XRD, IR and SEM, and their adsorption performance in mixed solution (containing Li, Na, K, Cs, Ca, Sr and Mg ions, 1 mmol L−1), artificial seawater and salt lake brine were studied under the same conditions; in addition, the adsorption mechanism was elucidated. The results showed that ammonium phosphomolybdate has the largest adsorption capacity for cesium in the mixed solution. In artificial seawater and salt lake brine, Prussian blue displays the highest cesium adsorption capacity and the best selectivity. The multi-adsorption mechanisms are beneficial to the selective adsorption of Prussian blue in complex solutions. These results are useful for choosing adsorbents for cesium and strontium in applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) are typically associated with massive star core collapse, while the short GRBs are associated with compact binary mergers. However, recent evidence indicates that some peculiar long-duration bursts may correspond to compact binary mergers origins. In this paper, we use the data of the Fermi Gamma-ray Burst Monitor to search for peculiar long-duration bursts which may be from compact binary mergers based on outlier events in the |$E_{p,z}\!-\!E_{\gamma ,\rm iso}$| relation. We obtained 10 outlier events by systematically analysing bursts with |$T_{90}\gt 4.2 \rm \ s$| from 2008 August to 2021 July. In order to determine whether these outlier events were from compact binary mergers, we analysed their properties, including spectral lag, hardness ratio, and energy-hardness parameter. Based on the distributions of T 90 − HR and T 90 − Ep , we calculated the probability of outlier events belonging to the short GRBs. Our analysis indicates that GRB 120304B is likely to arise from the merger of a neutron star and a massive white dwarf. GRB 150210A is likely to arise from massive star core collapse. The other eight GRBs are fuzzy bursts that have both long and short GRBs properties. Additionally, we find that outlier samples have relatively high Ep and low fluences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emerging method of microwave (MW) heating was adopted to synthesize a phase pure La0.7Na0.3MnO3 from their oxide precursors. The MW power (P) used for heating the sample was varied from P = 1000 W to 1600 W to examine the effect of MW power on its physical properties. A well-crystalline single phase La0.7Na0.3MnO3 was achieved in 20 min of MW irradiation with P = 1600 W. The obtained grain sizes at P = 1000 W have grown bigger and densified while increasing the P = 1600 W. Growth in the grains was reflected in the resistivity of La0.7Na0.3MnO3 prepared at high P. As the P increases from 1000 W to 1600 W, the resistivity decreases drastically and the metal–insulator transition also becomes sharp at a temperature very close to TC whereas the ferromagnetic Curie temperature (TC) is least affected. The sample prepared at low P showed larger microwave absorption than the sample prepared under high P. These findings were correlated and discussed with the structural and morphological features acquired by microwave irradiation with different powers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Microbiomes are thought to be an essential characteristic of tumors, influencing their development and progression. We found and validated certain microbiomes associated with tumor metastasis in cervical cancer samples. Furthermore, we attempted to elucidate the mechanism of the interaction between microbiomes and host cells utilizing a multiomics study. Finally, we developed an excellent prognostic prediction model for cervical cancer employing these microbiomes and their linked differentially expressed genes. This study conducted novel research concerning the link between tumor microbiomes and the host, highlighting the role of microbiomes in cervical cancer metastasis. Background: Intratumor microbiomes can influence tumorigenesis and progression. The relationship between intratumor microbiomes and cervical cancer metastasis, however, remains unclear. Methods: We examined 294 cervical cancer samples together with information on microbial expression, identified metastasis-associated microbiomes, and used machine learning methods to validate their predictive ability on tumor metastasis. The tumors were subsequently typed based on differences in microbial expression. Differentially expressed genes in different tumor types were combined to construct a tumor-prognostic risk score model and a multiparameter nomogram model. In addition, we performed a functional enrichment analysis of differentially expressed genes to infer the mechanism of action between microbiomes and tumor cells. Results: Based on the 15 differentially expressed microbiomes, machine learning models were able to correctly predict the risk of cervical cancer metastasis. In addition, both the risk score and the nomogram model accurately predicted tumor prognosis. Differences in the expression of endogenous genes in tumors can influence the distribution of the intracellular microbiomes. Conclusions: Intratumoral microbiomes in cervical cancer are associated with tumor metastasis and influence disease prognosis. A change in gene expression within tumor cells is responsible for differences in the microbial populations within the tumor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Papilionidae, swallow-tailed butterflies, attract the attention of biologists for the importance of their ecological and evolutionary study. Papilionidae are peculiar among Lepidoptera for their larvae bearing a Y-shaped eversible osmeterium on the prothorax. However, morphological study of the larvae of Papilionidae, especially in terms of the osmeteria, are far from satisfactory. In this study, larval ultramorphology of Sericinus montela was described using scanning electron microscopy after a novel method of sample preservation. Larvae of S. montela are peculiar for the 15 teeth on the incisor, the triordinal mesoseries plus biordinal lateroseries of crochets on the anal prolegs, the urticating acanthae on secondary setae, and the micro openings and surrounding microtrichia on the osmeterium. The method of sample preservation, larval morphological characters and correlated defensive strategies are compared and briefly discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the delivery of anticancer drugs, an injectable in situ hydrogel with thermal responsiveness and prolonged drug release capabilities shows considerable potential. Here, we present a series of thermosensitive in situ hydrogels that serve as drug delivery systems for the treatment of liver cancer. These hydrogels were created by utilizing the polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) oligomer, polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polypropylene glycol (PPG)'s chemical cross-linking capabilities. Doxorubicin (DOX) was encapsulated in a hydrogel with a hydrophobic core and hydrophilic shell to enhance DOX solubility. Studies into the behavior of in situ produced hydrogels at the microscopic and macroscopic levels revealed that the copolymer solution exhibits a progressive shift from sol to gel as the temperature rises. The hydrogels' chemical composition, thermal properties, rheological characteristics, gelation period, and DOX release behavior were all reported. Subcutaneous injection in mice was used to confirm the injectability. Through the in vitro release of DOX in a PBS solution that mimics the tumor microenvironment, the hydrogel's sustained drug release behavior was confirmed. Additionally, using human hepatocellular hepatoma, the anticancer efficacy of thermogel (DEP-2@DOX) was assessed (HepG2). The carrier polymer material DEP-2 was tested for cytotoxicity using HepG2 cells and its excellent cytocompatibility was confirmed. In conclusion, these thermally responsive injectable hydrogels are prominent potential candidates as drug delivery vehicles for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human epididymis protein 4 (HE4) is a vital biomarker for early diagnosis of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). Herein, a new label-free biosensor was developed using K3[Fe(CN)6] as the electrochemical probe for ultrasensitive immunoassay of HE4 based on PtNi nanocubes assemblies (NCAs) as efficient biosensing interfaces. The PtNi NCAs were synthesized by a simple solvothermal approach, where N-hexadecyltrimethylammonium chloride (HTAC) and 2,2′-bis(4,5-dimethylimidazole) (BDMM) behaved as co-structuring directors. Under the optimal conditions, the obtained HE4 immunosensor displayed a wide detection range from 0.001 to 100 ng mL−1 and a low detection limit (0.11 pg mL−1, S/N = 3). As a result, the current sensing platform would serve as a useful reference for detecting cancer biomarkers in the clinical assay and diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastic particles (MPs), which have been considered as emerging contaminants, are widely found in water environments. In southern China, many apartment owners place washing machines on their balconies, where the separated drain system usually leads to the storm-water pipes, resulting in releasing MPs directly into the environment. In the present study, we firstly obtained the laundry preference of residents in the study area based on a questionnaire survey and then designed a simulated laundry experiment to determine the MFs shed in the laundry process. The approximate amount of MFs discharged into the environment under various scenarios was estimated. The results showed that type of washing machine and detergent had a great influence on the MFs shedding. The use of a front-load machine and liquid laundry detergent pods (LDPs) can reduce MFs shed in the laundry process. If the laundry effluent generated by washing machines placed on apartment balconies flows into the municipal pipe network and is treated by wastewater treatment plants (Andrea Menéndez-Manjón), the environmental load of MFs can be reduced. Taking Nanning, the capital city of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, as a case study, the calculated result shows that the number of MFs discharged into the environment decreased by 93% at the optimized laundry mode. This study provides a reference for the control of MFs and the rational revision of the Architectural Design Guidelines in subtropical cities equipped with the diversion drainage system. [Display omitted] • Laundry preferences of the residents were obtained based on the questionnaire survey. • Parameters of MFs release in laundry process were tested by simulating experiments. • Doing laundry on balcony may release MFs into environment via rain drainage. • Use of laundry detergent pods can reduce the shedding of MFs by 82%. • WWTPs can reduce the environmental load of MFs sourced from laundry wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To study the relationship between sea urchin phospholipids (SUP) and sea urchin gonads (SUG) in flavor production, volatile flavor components of SUG and SUP were analyzed and characterized with gas‐ion mobility spectrometry (GC‐IMS) combined with a flavor analyzer (Flavourspec®‐G.A.S). A total of 48 volatile flavor compounds, mainly aldehydes (29), ketones (6), and esters (4), were identified in the heated SUG and SUP. By constructing flavor fingerprints of SUG and SUP, significant changes of flavor compounds were observed before and after heating. It was shown that some volatile compounds were detected in both SUG and SUP, such as E‐2‐octanal, 3‐methylbutyraldehyde, 2,3 pentanedione, 2‐pentylfuran, and trimethyl pyrazine, which were presumed to be mainly generated from flavor precursors in SUP after heating. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) showed significant differences of volatile flavor in SUG and SUP before and after heating, suggesting that heating played an important role in flavor production in sea urchins. Therefore, SUP heated was responsible for key flavor substances production in SUG, which can provide a scientific basis for the flavor fortmation mechanism of sea urchins. Novelty Impact Statement: Analysis of the role of phospholipids on sea urchin flavor formation by comparing the flavor changes of sea urchin gonads and sea urchin phospholipids after heating will help understand the flavor formation mechanism in foods. Flavor components in sea urchin gonads and phospholipids were significantly changed after heating suggested that heating plays an important role in flavor production. Changes in phospholipids in sea urchin gonads may be related to changes in flavor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, blueberry fruits (Vaccinium corymbosum cv. ‘Bluerain’) were sprayed with different concentrations (0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1 mg/L) of exogenous 24-epibrassionolide (EBR) after harvest and kept at 18°C and relative humidity of 90∼95% for 8 d. By observing the decay incidence and firmness changes, the optimal treatment concentration (0.75 mg/L) was screened, and then the effects of 0.75 mg/L EBR treatment on fruit quality and antioxidant activities were further explored. The results showed that EBR treatment could delay the decrease in firmness, total soluble solids, and acidity; maintain the contents of nutritional components, such as ascorbic acid, total phenol, and the total anthocyanin; and promote the activities of antioxidant enzymes, especially SOD and PAL, thereby helping to maintain the balance of reactive oxygen species and reduce the degree of membrane lipid peroxidation, as reflected by the content of MDA, and delaying the senescence process of blueberry fruit. Taken together, EBR treatment could help maintain the nutritional components of blueberry fruit and could be used as a new alternative reagent for blueberry preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A method of CW laser-assisted splitting of SiC wafer based on modified layer by picosecond laser. • A model of modified layer under CW laser was established, the mechanism of CW laser induced SiC wafer splitting was analyzed. • The splitting of 1cm×1cm×500μm SiC wafers was achieved without applying external force with optimized laser parameters. Silicon carbide (SiC), the third-generation semiconductor material, is important in developing electronic power devices. Compared to wire sawing technology, Laser splitting SiC is an efficient way to produce SiC wafers with reduced material loss. In this work, we propose a new method of continuous wave (CW) laser-assisted splitting of SiC wafer based on modified layer by picosecond laser. For the process of CW laser irradiation on the modified layer, thermal–mechanical numerical simulations were performed to calculate the temperature and stress fields during laser loading. The mechanism of CW laser-assisted SiC wafer splitting was analyzed to guide the selection of CW laser parameters. The microstructure, element distribution, and stress state of the split SiC wafer surface were investigated and analyzed. The results showed that laser processing did not affect the crystal structure and carrier concentration of SiC. Compressive stress was generated on the splitting surface. Polycrystalline carbon and single crystalline silicon appeared on the splitting surface with a 50-250 nm thickness. The layer with compressive stress and polycrystalline microstructures can be removed after grinding and polishing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pyrazoline and pyrazole compounds are important building blocks in the development of photofunctional compounds. Two new solution-processable platinum-containing polyynes functionalized with these chromophores in the main chain (P1 and P2) were synthesized and characterized by spectroscopic, thermal and optical methods. By changing the spacer from 2-pyrazoline to the electron-rich pyrazole in the main chain, the photophysical properties including energy levels, absorption wavelength and bandgap of the polymers were finely tuned. The photovoltaic properties of P1 with better absorption features were also studied.Graphical abstract: Pyrazoline and pyrazole compounds are important building blocks in the development of photofunctional compounds. Two new solution-processable platinum-containing polyynes functionalized with these chromophores in the main chain (P1 and P2) were synthesized and characterized by spectroscopic, thermal and optical methods. By changing the spacer from 2-pyrazoline to the electron-rich pyrazole in the main chain, the photophysical properties including energy levels, absorption wavelength and bandgap of the polymers were finely tuned. The photovoltaic properties of P1 with better absorption features were also studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effects of different pretreatment techniques (microwave heating, infrared heating, oven heating and enzymatic methods) on the quality of cold-pressed rapeseed oil (CPRO) with commercially available first-grade pressed rapeseed oil (CFO) as a control. The results showed that CPRO is more nutritionally valuable than CFO while meeting the quality standard without refining. Microwave heating pretreatment's cold-pressed rapeseed oil (MHO) exhibited a higher oil yield (70.83 ± 0.40 %), a higher trace active ingredient content (tocopherol 53.79 ± 0.19 mg/100 g, phytosterol 726.98 ± 4.14 mg/100 g, and polyphenol 87.09 ± 0.08 mg GAE/100 g), and a stronger antioxidant capacity. Correlation analysis and multiple linear regression analysis indicated that antioxidant capacity was mainly related to the content of α-tocopherol and polyphenols. Microwave heating promoted the degradation of the Maillard reaction and glucosinolates, significantly improving the flavor of CPRO. Therefore, microwave heating is a promising pretreatment technology for the production of high-quality CPRO. • CPRO has better quality than CFO without the need for refining. • Pretreatment does not significantly affect the fatty acid profile of CPRO. • MHO has a higher cold press oil yield (70.83 ± 0.40%) and nutritional value. • Pretreatment significantly improves the flavor of CPRO. • Microwave heating was an effective method in CPRO pretreatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In remote areas, people experiencing persistent poverty still face challenges related to energy shortages and air pollution. Due to the escalating global climate change crisis, herding communities in the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau remain vulnerable to significant threats related to energy security and accessibility. These communities are vulnerable because they occupy underdeveloped regions and depend heavily on traditional energy sources. To explore this issue, we conducted a comprehensive questionnaire-based survey involving 473 herders across 13 counties on the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau. The findings revealed that per capita energy consumption in herder households averaged 2021.793 kgce/year. Noncommercial energy sources constituted a substantial 61.66%, with the predominant one being cow dung, and refrigerators are the highest energy consumption household appliances. By applying geographically weighted regression (GWR), we examined seven key natural and socio-economic factors influencing solid energy use. These factors included annual per capita household income, the highest level of education, indoor and outdoor oxygen concentrations, the labor force population, housing size, and altitude. Notably, the first three variables exhibited negative correlations, while the rest demonstrated positive correlations. The impact of oxygen concentrations on household energy consumption was particularly significant, as demonstrated by the notable correlation. In this study, we elucidated the intricate structure and determinants of energy consumption structure within herders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acoustic behaviour plays a significant role in insect communications, but is rarely reported in their immature stages. Larvae of Lucanidae bear paired stridulatory organs on their thoracic legs, which could produce sounds as communicational signals. However, the species-specific differences on stridulatory organs and acoustic signals are far from fully investigated. In this study, the larval acoustic behaviours of three lucanid species, Lucanus dybowski , Prosopocoilus confucius and P. girafa were recorded and compared for the first time. The sound producing mechanism was described in detail based on video recordings, morphological observations, and acoustic analyses. The larvae of all three species are able to produce sounds by scraping the plectrum on the metatrochanter against the pars stridens on the mesocoxa during disturbance. The sounds exhibit species-specific differences in terms of acoustic parameters: the larvae of L. dybowski produce short-duration (140–200 ms), single-pulse and low-frequency (∼210 Hz) sounds; P. confucius produce long-duration (500–800 ms), triple-pulse and low-frequency (∼280 Hz) sounds; P. girafa produce long-duration (500–560 ms), double-pulse and low-frequency (∼260 Hz) sounds. The amounts and arrangements of the teeth on stridulatory organs also exhibit differences on specific level. The acoustic signals and stridulatory organs were compared using principal component analysis. • Species-specific acoustic behaviours were discovered among three lucanid larvae. • Species-specific stridulatory organs were discovered among three lucanid larvae. • The sound producing mechanism was described based on morphological observations and acoustic analyses. • The acoustic signal differences were analyzed focused on the duration, down-time, and peak frequency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fagus L. is a key component in temperate deciduous broadleaf forests of the Northern Hemisphere. However, its biogeographic history has not been examined under the framework of a fully resolved and reasonably time‐calibrated phylogeny. In this study, we sequenced 28 nuclear single/low‐copy loci (18 555 bp in total) of 11 Fagus species/segregates and seven outgroups. Phylogenetic trees were reconstructed using both concatenation‐based (maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood, and Bayesian inference) and coalescent‐based methods (StarBEAST2, ASTRAL). The monophyly of two subgenera (Fagus and Engleriana) and most sections was well supported, except for sect. Lucida, which was paraphyletic with respect to sect. Longipetiolata. We also found a major phylogenetic conflict among North American, East Asian, and West Eurasian lineages of subgen. Fagus. Three segregates that have isolated distribution (F. mexicana, F. multinervis, and F. orientalis) were independent evolutionary units. Biogeographic analysis with fossils suggested that Fagus could have originated in the North Pacific region in late early Eocene. Major diversifications coincided with a climate aberration at the Eocene/Oligocene boundary and the global cooling since mid‐Miocene. The late Miocene accelerated global cooling and the Pleistocene glaciations would have driven beeches into East Asia, North America, and West Eurasia. Meanwhile, range reduction and extinction in high latitudes, central Asia, and western North America converged to form the beech modern distribution pattern. This study provides a first attempt to disentangle the biogeographic history of beeches in the context of a nearly resolved and time‐calibrated phylogeny, which could shed new insights into the formation of the temperate biome in the Northern Hemisphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the past year, video blogs (vlogs) seem to have become a major form of information acquisition and entertainment socializing for the Internet users. The vlog, which is essentially a digital diary, is an emerging video content form and is touted by multimedia as the next mainstay of the video blogging era. Many creators have achieved self-branding and self-promotion through the continuous output of vlogs. Vlog visibility has greatly increased and has become a new territory for promotion. Therefore, analyzing the impact of vlog promotional content on consumer attitudes is important to provide companies with a theoretical basis for developing vlog promotions. Based on a large amount of literature and book research, this study proposes three attitude components in reference to the ABC attitude model: cognitive attitude, affective attitude, and behavioral tendency. Based on this, a questionnaire was designed to determine the influence of vlog promotion on consumer attitudes, and correlation and regression analyses were conducted on the three outcome and six predictor variables according to the results. All six predictors were determined to have different degrees of influence on consumer attitudes, with the vlogger's (who provides the vlog) understanding of the advertised products having the most influence on cognitive attitudes. This was also the most influential factors in affective attitudes and behavioral tendency; the second-most influential factors for these are the degree of fan interactivity with the vlogger and vlog content, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pressure hull of deep manned submersible is the most basic component to ensure its intended function. It is necessary to study the influence of initial geometric defects on the bearing capacity of pressure hull of manned submersible with different depths. According to the idea of discontinuous Galerkin finite element method, the theoretical model is constructed and the corresponding algorithm is designed, and the genetic algorithm is combined with discontinuous Galerin finite element method to establish the inverse method to obtain the ultimate bearing capacity of manned submersible. First, the discontinuous Galerkin finite element model is constructed, the inversion model is also established through combing the discontinuous Galerkin finite element method and genetic algorithm, and then the corresponding solution algorithm is designed. Moreover, then, the ultimate bearing analysis of manned submersible for different deep is carried out based on the inversion model combing discontinuous Galerkin finite element method and genetic algorithm. The effect of defect parameters on ultimate bearing capacity of manned submersible is obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last 20 years, energy consumption in the residential sector in China has grown rapidly, and the growth is faster than that of any other energy form. To assess the limitations of the spatial characteristics of household energy consumption in urban areas, this paper selected Guangzhou as the research area. Specifically, the old town, core area, central area and peri-urban areas, which best reflect the evolutionary characteristics and spatial differentiation of households, were assessed. Based on the surveyed database of community-scale household energy consumption (N = 1097), the spatial heterogeneity of household energy consumption and carbon emissions at the community scale were assessed through exploratory spatial data analysis and the standard deviation ellipse method. The results report that (1) the main sources of energy consumption in Guangzhou households were water heating equipment, kitchen equipment and refrigeration equipment, which were related to the climatic conditions and cultural traditions of the city. (2) There was significant spatial heterogeneity in the carbon emissions from household domestic energy use in Guangzhou. (3) The economic level, the effects of the Lingnan culture and the characteristics of residents are the main drivers influencing the spatial characteristics of household energy consumption and carbon emissions in Guangzhou. We propose that policy development should actively promote energy-efficient equipment, such as water heating and cooling equipment, in urban households and take full account of the basic household energy needs of residents in old urban and suburban areas while promoting the development of low-carbon buildings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unsupervised domain adaptation (UDA) makes predictions for the target domain data while manual annotations are only available in the source domain. Previous methods minimize the domain discrepancy neglecting the class information, which may lead to misalignment and poor generalization performance. To tackle this issue, this paper proposes contrastive adaptation network (CAN) that optimizes a new metric named Contrastive Domain Discrepancy explicitly modeling the intra-class domain discrepancy and the inter-class domain discrepancy. To optimize CAN, two technical issues need to be addressed: 1) the target labels are not available; and 2) the conventional mini-batch sampling is imbalanced. Thus we design an alternating update strategy to optimize both the target label estimations and the feature representations. Moreover, we develop class-aware sampling to enable more efficient and effective training. Our framework can be generally applied to the single-source and multi-source domain adaptation scenarios. In particular, to deal with multiple source domain data, we propose: 1) multi-source clustering ensemble which exploits the complementary knowledge of distinct source domains to make more accurate and robust target label estimations; and 2) boundary-sensitive alignment to make the decision boundary better fitted to the target. Experiments are conducted on three real-world benchmarks (i.e., Office-31 and VisDA-2017 for the single-source scenario, DomainNet for the multi-source scenario). All the results demonstrate that our CAN performs favorably against the state-of-the-art methods. Ablation studies also verify the effectiveness of each key component of our proposed system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes continuous mucosal inflammation. Anemonin is a natural molecule from the Ranunculaceae and Gramineae plants that exerts anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to explore the effects and mechanisms of anemonin on UC. Methods: C57BL/6 mice were administered dextran sulphate sodium (DSS; 3% [w/v]) to establish an animal model of UC. Mice were treated with an intraperitoneal injection of anemonin. Body weight and the disease activity index (DAI) were recorded. Haematoxylin and eosin staining, RT-qPCR, ELISA, and western blotting were performed to evaluate the histopathological changes and tissue inflammation. HT-29 cells were treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and anemonin. Cell inflammation was evaluated using RT-qPCR and western blotting. The target proteins of anemonin were predicted using bioinformatics analysis and confirmed in vitro and in vivo. Results: Anemonin improved DSS-induced body weight loss, shortened colon length, increased DAI, and induced pathological changes in the colon tissue of mice. Anemonin inhibited DSS-induced colon tissue inflammation as the release of IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 was significantly suppressed. Additionally, anemonin attenuated LPS-induced cytokine production in HT-29 cells. PKC-θ was predicted as a target protein of anemonin. Anemonin did not affect PRKCQ gene transcription, but inhibited its translation. PRKCQ overexpression partially reversed the protective effects of anemonin on HT-29 cells. Adeno-associated virus delivery of the PRKCQ vector significantly reversed the protective effects of anemonin on the mouse colon. Conclusions: Anemonin has the potential to treat UC. The anti-inflammatory effects of anemonin may be mediated through targeting PKC-θ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate identification of drug–target interactions (DTIs) plays a crucial role in drug discovery. Compared with traditional experimental methods that are labor-intensive and time-consuming, computational methods are more and more popular in recent years. Conventional computational methods almost simply view heterogeneous networks which integrate diverse drug-related and target-related dataset instead of fully exploring drug and target similarities. In this paper, we propose a new method, named DTIHNC, for |$\mathbf{D}$| rug– |$\mathbf{T}$| arget |$\mathbf{I}$| nteraction identification, which integrates |$\mathbf{H}$| eterogeneous |$\mathbf{N}$| etworks and |$\mathbf{C}$| ross-modal similarities calculated by relations between drugs, proteins, diseases and side effects. Firstly, the low-dimensional features of drugs, proteins, diseases and side effects are obtained from original features by a denoising autoencoder. Then, we construct a heterogeneous network across drug, protein, disease and side-effect nodes. In heterogeneous network, we exploit the heterogeneous graph attention operations to update the embedding of a node based on information in its 1-hop neighbors, and for multi-hop neighbor information, we propose random walk with restart aware graph attention to integrate more information through a larger neighborhood region. Next, we calculate cross-modal drug and protein similarities from cross-scale relations between drugs, proteins, diseases and side effects. Finally, a multiple-layer convolutional neural network deeply integrates similarity information of drugs and proteins with the embedding features obtained from heterogeneous graph attention network. Experiments have demonstrated its effectiveness and better performance than state-of-the-art methods. Datasets and a stand-alone package are provided on Github with website https://github.com/ningq669/DTIHNC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parenteral nutrition-associated liver disease (PNALD) refers to a spectrum of conditions that can develop cholestasis, steatosis, fibrosis, and cirrhosis in the setting of parenteral nutrition (PN) use. Patient risk factors include short bowel syndrome, bacterial overgrowth and translocation, disturbance of hepatobiliary circulation, and lack of enteral feeding. A growing body of evidence suggests an intricate linkage between the gut microbiota and the pathogenesis of PNALD. In this review, we highlight current knowledge on the taxonomic and functional changes in the gut microbiota that might serve as noninvasive biomarkers. We also discuss the function of microbial metabolites and associated signaling pathways in the pathogenesis of PNALD. By providing the perspectives of microbiota-host interactions in PNALD for basic and translational research and summarizing current limitations of microbiota-based approaches, this review paves the path for developing novel and precise microbiota-based therapies in PNALD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of poverty and inequality in megacities often manifests as high levels of energy poverty and disparities in household energy consumption. A comprehensive survey of 2054 households in Beijing was conducted in 2023 to examine the dynamics of energy poverty within such an urban settings. As one of the world's most influential megacities, Beijing offers a distinct and insightful case study for understanding energy poverty in a rapidly urbanizing global context. Utilizing the 10 % and low-cost/high-income (LIHC) methods, we estimated that the energy poverty rate in Beijing ranges between 16.07 % and 17.53 %, with the highest rates observed in suburban areas. In addition, we explored the spatial differences in energy poverty and the root causes. Our research reveals a significant correlation between economic and geographical factors and the spatial distribution of energy poverty. Furthermore, our findings suggest that larger populations tend to be associated with reduced disparities in energy poverty across different areas. Therefore, we suggest promoting the use of energy-efficient installations, implementing time-sensitive heating systems, and providing electricity and hygienic cooking facilities. • We surveyed 2054 households to measure energy poverty in Beijing, resulting in a range of 16.07–17.53 %. • The spatial structure of energy poverty is closely related to economic and geographical distance. • Energy expenditure, floor area, and heating methods significantly influence spatial differences in Beijing's energy poverty. • As Population size increases, household energy usage is shared, reducing spatial differences in energy poverty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses a case of spontaneous vaginal cuff dehiscence with evisceration in a woman with vaginal vault prolapse five years after a hysterectomy. Vaginal cuff dehiscence is a rare but serious complication of hysterectomy, usually occurring shortly after the surgery. However, there is still a risk of late-onset vaginal cuff dehiscence, particularly in postmenopausal women with vault prolapse. The article describes the patient's case, including her medical history and the surgical procedure used to repair the dehiscence. It also discusses the risk factors and treatment options for vaginal cuff dehiscence. [Extracted from the article]

Four new solution-processable platinum-containing polyynes functionalized with triphenylamine backbone and different acceptor fragment in the side chain were synthesized and characterized by spectroscopic, thermal and optical methods. The main- and side-chains show different absorption features in the solar spectrum, resulting in broad absorption coverage of the whole visible region. By changing the acceptor group in the side chain, the photophysical properties including energy levels, absorption wavelength and bandgap of the polymers were finely tuned. As the strength of electron acceptor is increased, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of organic polymer solar cells fabricated with these polymers as electron donor and (6,6)-phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) as electron acceptor was increased. PCE of 1.35% can be obtained from solar cell based on the polyplatinayne with the dicyanovinyl side group under illumination of an AM 1.5 solar cell simulator in a 1:4 (polymer:PCBM) blend ratio.Graphical Abstract: Four new solution-processable platinum-containing polyynes functionalized with triphenylamine backbone and different acceptor fragment in the side chain were synthesized and characterized by spectroscopic, thermal and optical methods. The main- and side-chains show different absorption features in the solar spectrum, resulting in broad absorption coverage of the whole visible region. By changing the acceptor group in the side chain, the photophysical properties including energy levels, absorption wavelength and bandgap of the polymers were finely tuned. As the strength of electron acceptor is increased, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of organic polymer solar cells fabricated with these polymers as electron donor and (6,6)-phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) as electron acceptor was increased. PCE of 1.35% can be obtained from solar cell based on the polyplatinayne with the dicyanovinyl side group under illumination of an AM 1.5 solar cell simulator in a 1:4 (polymer:PCBM) blend ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Mn-enriched roots of P. Stratiotes can be used to prepare multi-metal catalysts. • Mn(IV) accounts for 37% of Mn species in MF400 but is not detected in MF400-N. • Fe and Mn are the key factors affecting the catalytic performance. • Synergistic effect of ROS and surface reactive Mn(IV) leads to BPA degradation. • The catalyst exhibits excellent activation ability over a wide range of pH. Aquatic plants used for phyto-extracting toxic metals from water are often enriched in certain metals and recycling these metal-enriched plants will achieve the sustainable application of phytoremediation/phytoextraction technology. The present study systematically explores the potential recycling of Mn-enriched-roots of P. Stratiotes used in the treatment of electrolytic manganese residue leachates as catalysts for activating peroxymonosulfate [1] to degrade organics in water. The effects of heat treatment temperature and atmosphere on the catalyst activity were first investigated and the results indicate that catalyst prepared in air at 400 °C contains active Mn(IV) while Mn(IV) was not detected in the catalyst prepared in N 2 at the same temperature, and thereby catalyst obtained in air under 400 °C (MF400) performs better catalytic activity in degrading bisphenol A (BPA). The removal of BPA was found to reach 99.9 % in the MF400/PMS system at 120 min. The BPA degradation pathways were inferred by density flooding calculations (DFT) and then confirmed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry coupled detection, indicating that the radical pathway depending on·OH, SO 4 − and·O 2 – is the mechanism for BPA degradation in the MF400/PMS system. The ECOSAR assessment reveals that most BPA degradation intermediates are less toxic than their parent molecule. This work provides a simple and effective way for recycling Mn/Fe enriched aquatic plants used in phytoextraction process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: RNA cargo in exosomes, especially microRNAs (miRNAs), play an important role in the chemotherapy drug resistance of human cancers. However, the role and mechanism of exosomal miR-107 on multidrug resistance of gastric cancer cells was still not clear. In this study, we sought to explore whether exosomal miR-107 could reverse the resistance of gastric cancer cells to the chemotherapy drugs.Methods: We extracted exosomes from sensitive (SGC-7901, MGC-803) and resistant (SGC-7901/5-FU) gastric cancer cells by ultracentrifugation and the isolated exosomes were identified using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering analysis (DLS). The expression of miR-107 and high mobility group A2 (HMGA2) were detected by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). MTT assay was used to investigate the effect of exosomes on gastric cancer cells growth in vitro. The uptake of exosomes by recipient cells were observed using a fluorescence microscope. The predicted target relationship between miR-107 and HMGA2 was verified by gauss-luciferase reporter assay. The expression of HMGA2, p-mTOR/mTOR, P-gp and other exosomal indicated marker proteins was detected by western blot.Results: Our results indicated that the isolated exosomes were typically cup-like lipid bilayer membranes structure. SGC-7901/5-FU cells were cross-resistant to chemotherapy drug cisplatin (CDDP), and the sensitive cells-secreted exosomes drastically reversed the resistance of the resistant GC cells to the chemotherapeutic drugs, which was verified by exosomal inhibitor GW4896. Mechanistically, the reversal effect was mainly mediated by exosome-secreted miR-107 through downregulating the expression of target molecular HMGA2 and inhibiting HMGA2/mTOR/P-gp pathway, which were supported by results from luciferase reporter assay and rescue assay.Conclusions: These findings demonstrated that exosome-transmitted miR-107 significantly enhanced the sensitivity of resistant gastric cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents by mediating the HMGA2/mTOR/P-gp axis and exosomal miR-107 may be a novel target in gastric cancers treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Root hair, a special type of tubular-shaped cell, outgrows from root epidermal cell and plays important roles in the acquisition of nutrients and water, as well as interactions with biotic and abiotic stress. Although many genes involved in root hair development have been identified, genetic basis of natural variation in root hair growth has never been explored. Results: Here, we utilized a maize association panel including 281 inbred lines with tropical, subtropical, and temperate origins to decipher the phenotypic diversity and genetic basis of root hair length. We demonstrated significant associations of root hair length with many metabolic pathways and other agronomic traits. Combining root hair phenotypes with 1.25 million single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) via genome-wide association study (GWAS) revealed several candidate genes implicated in cellular signaling, polar growth, disease resistance and various metabolic pathways. Conclusions: These results illustrate the genetic basis of root hair length in maize, offering a list of candidate genes predictably contributing to root hair growth, which are invaluable resource for the future functional investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seasonal polyphenism is a phenomenon where two or more phenotypes are produced from a single genotype in different seasons. This phenomenon, a special type of phenotypic plasticity, is one of the major reasons for the success of insects and is also one of the primary sources of synonymy generations in insect taxonomy. Two nominal scorpionflies, Panorpa liui Hua, 1997 and Panorpa jilinensis Zhou, 2000 from the northeastern region of China, are very similar in morphology except for body coloration. However, whether they are conspecific or distinct species remains to be resolved. Here, we investigated these two nominal species through integrative taxonomy, including morphological variation analyses, geometric morphometrics of wing size and shape variations, genetic diversity, phylogenetic analyses based on two mitochondrial (COI and COII) and one nuclear (28S rRNA) gene fragments, and biological rearing. The results show that P. liui Hua, 1997 is a bivoltine species of seasonal polyphenism in the lowland plain, exhibiting a black morph in the spring and a yellow morph in the summer. Panorpa jilinensis Zhou, 2000 syn. nov. is considered as a junior synonym of P. liui Hua, 1997. The value of integrative taxonomy for species delimitation is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]