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Abstract Direct carbonylation of CH4 to CH3COOH provides a promising pathway for upgrading of natural gas to transportable liquid chemicals, in which high-efficiency CH4 activation and controllable C–C coupling are both critical but challenging. Herein, we report that highly efficient photo-driven carbonylation of CH4 with CO and O2 to CH3COOH is achieved over MoS2-confined Rh-Zn atomic-pair in conjunction with TiO2. It delivers a high CH3COOH productivity of 152.0 μmol gcat. −1 h−1 and turnover frequency of 62.0 h−1 with a superior selectivity of 96.5%, outperforming previous photocatalytic CH4 carbonylation processes. Mechanistic investigations disclose the key effect of Rh-Zn synergy in combination with photo-excited electrons from TiO2 for CH3COOH formation. The active OH species produced from O2 photoreduction on the Zn site through proton-coupled electron transfer promotes CH4 dissociation to CH3 species, which then facilely couples with adsorbed CO on the adjacent Rh site forming the key CH3CO intermediate for CH3COOH formation.

Abstract Background Although alcohol consumption is considered one of the risk factors for delirium in intensive care unit (ICU) patients, quantitative research on the association between alcohol use disorder (AUD) and the development of delirium in the ICU remains relatively scarce. Methods This retrospective cohort study was conducted using the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care-IV database, including all patients admitted to the ICU for the first time and underwent delirium assessment. Patients were divided into AUD and non-AUD groups, with the primary outcome being the occurrence of ICU delirium. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to balance baseline characteristics between the two groups. The association between AUD and the occurrence of ICU delirium was evaluated using Cox proportional hazards and competing risk models, with sensitivity and subgroup analyses to assess the stability of the results. Results A total of 35,053 patients were included, with 3,455 (9.9%) in the AUD group. The incidence of ICU delirium and ICU mortality were significantly higher in the AUD group compared to the non-AUD group, with a longer median ICU stay. Multivariable Cox regression analysis, adjusting for all covariates, revealed a significant association between AUD and increased risk of ICU delirium (HR 1.59, 95% CI 1.50–1.69, P

Abstract Background Crohn’s disease is a severe chronic and relapsing inflammatory bowel disease. Although contrast-enhanced computed tomography enterography is commonly used to evaluate crohn’s disease, its imaging findings are often nonspecific and can overlap with other bowel diseases. Recent studies have explored the application of radiomics-based machine learning algorithms to aid in the diagnosis of medical images. This study aims to develop a non-invasive method for detecting bowel lesions associated with Crohn’s disease using CT enterography radiomics and machine learning algorithms. Methods A total of 139 patients with pathologically confirmed Crohn’s disease were retrospectively enrolled in this study. Radiomics features were extracted from both arterial- and venous-phase CT enterography images, representing both bowel lesions with Crohn’s disease and segments of normal bowel. A machine learning classification system was constructed by combining six selected radiomics features with eight classification algorithms. The models were trained using leave-one-out cross-validation and evaluated for accuracy. Results The classification model demonstrated robust performance and high accuracy, with an area under the curve of 0.938 and 0.961 for the arterial- and venous-phase images, respectively. The model achieved an accuracy of 0.938 for arterial-phase images and 0.961 for venous-phase images. Conclusions This study successfully identified a radiomics machine learning method that effectively differentiates Crohn’s disease bowel lesions from normal bowel segments. Further studies with larger sample sizes and external cohorts are needed to validate these findings.

Abstract Background Whole exome sequencing (WES) has been recommended to investigate the genetic cause of fetal structural anomalies. In this retrospective study, we aimed to evaluate the diagnostic yield of WES in our cohort of families with pregnancy loss or termination of pregnancy due to structural anomalies. Methods As aneuploidy, triploidy and copy number variations (CNVs) could be detected by exome-based CNV analysis, only WES is performed in this study. And the results of 375 cases assessed by WES were analyzed. Results The overall detection rate was 32.3% (121/375), including aneuploidy and triploidy (7.5%, 28/375), CNVs (5.1%, 19/375) and single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) /insertions or deletions (Indels) (19.7%, 74/375). Among these, the diagnostic yield for likely pathogenic (LP) or pathogenic (P) CNVs is 4.8% (18/375), and the diagnostic yield for LP or P SNVs/Indels is 15.2% (57/375). And an additional 4.8% (18/375) of cases had CNVs or SNVs/Indels classified as variants of uncertain significance (VUS) with potential clinical significance. Conclusions Our findings expand the known mutation spectrum of genetic variants related to fetal abnormalities, increase our understanding of prenatal phenotypes, and enable more accurate counseling of recurrence risk for future pregnancies.

Abstract Allosteric drugs offer a new avenue for modern drug design. However, the identification of cryptic allosteric sites presents a formidable challenge. Following the allostery nature of residue-driven conformation transition, we propose a state-of-the-art computational pipeline by developing a residue-intuitive hybrid machine learning (RHML) model coupled with molecular dynamics (MD) simulation, through which we can efficiently identify the allosteric site and allosteric modulator as well as reveal their regulation mechanism. For the clinical target β2-adrenoceptor (β2AR), we discover an additional allosteric site located around residues D792.50, F2826.44, N3187.45 and S3197.46 and one putative allosteric modulator ZINC5042. Using Molecular Mechanics/Generalized Born Surface Area (MM/GBSA) and protein structure network (PSN), the allosteric potency and regulation mechanism are probed to further improve identification accuracy. Benefiting from sufficient computational evidence, the experimental assays then validate our predicted allosteric site, negative allosteric potency and regulation pathway, showcasing the effectiveness of the identification pipeline in practice. We expect that it will be applicable to other target proteins.

BackgroundGallbladder and biliary tract cancers (GBTCs) are aggressive with poor prognosis, often undetected until advanced stages. High Body Mass Index (BMI) is a significant risk factor, contributing substantially to GBTC mortality and Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs). This study aimed to quantify the global burdens of GBTCs attributable to high BMI from 1990 to 2021, thereby developing more rational prevention and treatment strategies for GBTC.MethodsData were extracted from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021. Age-standardized rates of mortality (ASMR), and DALYs (ASDR) for GBTCs due to high BMI were calculated by years, genders, ages, geographical locations, and sociodemographic index (SDI). The estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) was calculated to evaluate the temporal trends from 1990 to 2021. Decomposition and frontier analyses were conducted to understand the driving forces behind burden changes and to identify top-performing countries. Inequality analysis was conducted to assess burden disparities across different SDI levels. The disease burden was forecasted through 2035 using the Bayesian age period cohort (BAPC) model.ResultsGlobally, ASMR and ASDR for GBTCs related to high BMI decreased from 1990 to 2021; however, the absolute number of deaths and DALYs cases more than doubled, and similar patterns are projected to continue over the next 14 years in the absence of intervention. High SDI regions showed higher burdens due to higher obesity rates, population growth, and aging, while low SDI regions faced higher EAPCs due to limited resources. Moreover, this inequality has become more significant. Females were more susceptible across all age groups. Notable variations in burden management were observed among countries, with some low SDI nations demonstrating superior performance to high SDI countries.ConclusionDespite the decline in rates, the burden of GBTCs attributable to high BMI remains substantial, underscoring the need for targeted prevention strategies for high BMI, particularly in high SDI regions. Gender and age disparities necessitate tailored health interventions.

Abstract Background Synovial fibrosis is a common complication of knee osteoarthritis (KOA), a pathological process characterized by myofibroblast activation and excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. Fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) are implicated in KOA pathogenesis, contributing to synovial fibrosis through diverse mechanisms. Nuclear protein 1 (NUPR1) is a recently identified transcription factor with crucial roles in various fibrotic diseases. However, its molecular determinants in KOA synovial fibrosis remain unknown. This study aims to investigate the role of NUPR1 in KOA synovial fibrosis through in vivo and in vitro experiments. Methods We examined NUPR1 expression in the murine synovium and determined the impact of NUPR1 on synovial fibrosis by knockdown models in the destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM)-induced KOA mouse model. TGF-β was employed to induce fibrotic response and myofibroblast activation in mouse FLSs, and the role and molecular mechanisms in synovial fibrosis were evaluated under conditions of NUPR1 downexpression. Additionally, the pharmacological effect of NUPR1 inhibitor in synovial fibrosis was assessed using a surgically induced mouse KOA model. Results We found that NUPR1 expression increased in the murine synovium after DMM surgical operation. The adeno-associated virus (AAV)-NUPR1 shRNA promoted NUPR1 deficiency, attenuating synovial fibrosis, inhibiting synovial hyperplasia, and significantly reducing the expression of pro-fibrotic molecules. Moreover, the lentivirus-mediated NUPR1 deficiency alleviated synoviocyte proliferation and inhibited fibroblast to myofibroblast transition. It also decreased the expression of fibrosis markers α-SMA, COL1A1, CTGF, Vimentin and promoted the activation of the SMAD family member 3 (SMAD3) pathway. Importantly, trifluoperazine (TFP), a NUPR1 inhibitor, attenuated synovial fibrosis in DMM mice. Conclusions These findings indicate that NUPR1 is an antifibrotic modulator in KOA, and its effect on anti-synovial fibrosis is partially mediated by SMAD3 signaling. This study reveals a promising target for developing novel antifibrotic treatment.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) encompass a range of disorders affecting the heart and blood vessels, such as coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease (e.g., stroke), peripheral arterial disease, congenital heart anomalies, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism. CVDs are often referred to as the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Recent advancements in deep sequencing have unveiled a plethora of noncoding RNA transcripts, including circular RNAs (circRNAs), which play pivotal roles in the regulation of CVDs. A decade of research has differentiated various circRNAs by their vasculoprotective or deleterious functions, revealing potential therapeutic targets. This review provides an overview of circRNAs and a comprehensive examination of CVDs, the regulatory circRNAs within the vasculature, and the burgeoning research domain dedicated to these noncoding RNAs.

Abstract Photothermoelectric (PTE) detectors combine photothermal and thermoelectric conversion, surmounting material band gap restrictions and limitations related to matching light wavelengths, have been widely used in telecommunication band detection. Two‐dimensional (2D) materials with gate‐tunable Seebeck coefficient can induce the generation of photothermal currents under illumination by the asymmetric Seebeck coefficient, making them promising candidate for PTE detectors in the telecommunication band. In this work, we report that a newly explored van der Waals (vdW) layered material, SnP2Se6, possessing excellent field regulation capabilities and behaviors as an ideal candidate for PTE detector implementation. With the assistance of temperature‐dependent Raman characterization, the suspended atomic thin SnP2Se6 nanosheets reveal thickness‐dependent thermal conductivity of 1.4–5.7 W m−1 K−1 at room temperature. The 2D SnP2Se6 demonstrates high Seebeck coefficient (S) and power factor (PF), which are estimated to be −506 μV K−1 and 207 μW m−1 K−2, respectively. By effectively modulating the SnP2Se6 localized carrier concentration, which in turn leads to inhomogeneous Seebeck coefficients, the designed dual‐gate PTE detector with 2D SnP2Se6 channel demonstrates wide spectral photoresponse in telecommunication bands, yielding high responsivity (R = 1.2 mA W−1) and detectivity (D* = 6 × 109 Jones) under 1550 nm light illumination. Our findings provide a new material platform and device configuration for the telecommunication band detection.

Abstract The risk for suffering immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs)‐associated myocarditis increases in patients with pre‐existing conditions and the mechanisms remain to be clarified. Spatial transcriptomics, single‐cell RNA sequencing, and flow cytometry are used to decipher how anti‐cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen‐4 m2a antibody (anti‐CTLA‐4 m2a antibody) aggravated cardiac injury in experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM) mice. It is found that anti‐CTLA‐4 m2a antibody increases cardiac fibroblast‐derived C‐X‐C motif chemokine ligand 1 (Cxcl1), which promots neutrophil infiltration to the myocarditic zones (MZs) of EAM mice via enhanced Cxcl1‐Cxcr2 chemotaxis. It is identified that the C–C motif chemokine ligand 5 (Ccl5)‐neutrophil subpopulation is responsible for high activity of cytokine production, adaptive immune response, NF‐κB signaling, and cellular response to interferon‐gamma and that the Ccl5‐neutrophil subpopulation and its‐associated proinflammatory cytokines/chemokines promoted macrophage (Mφ) polarization to M1 Mφ. These altered infiltrating landscape and phenotypic switch of immune cells, and proinflammatory factors synergistically aggravated anti‐CTLA‐4 m2a antibody‐induced cardiac injury in EAM mice. Neutralizing neutrophils, Cxcl1, and applying Cxcr2 antagonist dramatically alleviates anti‐CTLA‐4 m2a antibody‐induced leukocyte infiltration, cardiac fibrosis, and dysfunction. It is suggested that Ccl5‐neutrophil subpopulation plays a critical role in aggravating anti‐CTLA‐4 m2a antibody‐induced cardiac injury in EAM mice. This data may provide a strategic rational for preventing/curing ICIs‐associated myocarditis.

Abstract Background Detecting epistatic interactions (EIs) involves the exploration of associations among single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and complex diseases, which is an important task in genome-wide association studies. The EI detection problem is dependent on epistasis models and corresponding optimization methods. Although various models and methods have been proposed to detect EIs, identifying EIs efficiently and accurately is still a challenge. Results Here, we propose a linear mixed statistical epistasis model (LMSE) and a spherical evolution approach with a feedback mechanism (named SEEI). The LMSE model expands the existing single epistasis models such as LR-Score, K2-Score, Mutual information, and Gini index. The SEEI includes an adaptive spherical search strategy and population updating strategy, which ensures that the algorithm is not easily trapped in local optima. We analyzed the performances of 8 random disease models, 12 disease models with marginal effects, 30 disease models without marginal effects, and 10 high-order disease models. The 60 simulated disease models and a real breast cancer dataset were used to evaluate eight algorithms (SEEI, EACO, EpiACO, FDHEIW, MP-HS-DHSI, NHSA-DHSC, SNPHarvester, CSE). Three evaluation criteria (pow1, pow2, pow3), a T-test, and a Friedman test were used to compare the performances of these algorithms. The results show that the SEEI algorithm (order 1, averages ranks = 13.125) outperformed the other algorithms in detecting EIs. Conclusions Here, we propose an LMSE model and an evolutionary computing method (SEEI) to solve the optimization problem of the LMSE model. The proposed method performed better than the other seven algorithms tested in its ability to identify EIs in genome-wide association datasets. We identified new SNP–SNP combinations in the real breast cancer dataset and verified the results. Our findings provide new insights for the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. Availability and implementation: https://github.com/scutdy/SSO/blob/master/SEEI.zip .

In view of the intelligentization of coal mine roadway excavation, this paper discusses the current development status of four major categories of intelligent fast excavation equipment, including continuous mining machine, excavation and anchor machine, full-section excavation system, and anchor excavation machine, analyzes the applicability of the four major categories of intelligent fast excavation equipment with the geological conditions, proposes some key technological issues for the realization of intelligent coal mine excavation which need to be resolved, and also explores the information transmission and intelligent analysis technology, intelligent perception technology, precise positioning and navigation technology, autonomous stereotyped directional cutting technology, remote and autonomous cutting control technology of road-header and multi-level and multi-process intelligent cooperative control technology, as they are the basis for the realization of intelligent roadway excavation. Based on the key technological issues needed to be solved in the mine roadway excavation under the complex geological conditions, the paper puts forward the design method of systematic analysis, modular design and optimal combination of functions, according to the functional requirements of the excavation operation and the requirements of the excavation process. A multi-level digital twin architecture of virtual control and virtual-reality combination is studied based on the multi-dimensional information reproduction of heading equipment, environment, and geological structure to realize the remote control of road-heading machine. A control method that integrates single-machine intelligence, system synergism, and synergism of underground intelligent control and surface remote monitoring is proposed. A new type of flexible advance support technology without repetitive crushing, multi-stage telescopic cutting technology of cutting section, and multi-rig parallel operation technology of intelligent anchoring unit have been developed, and a new type of combined unit for rapid roadway heading operation with a parallel operation of excavating, supporting, anchoring, transporting, and exploring processes has been also developed, and a flexible parallel operation technology of excavation robot, advance support robot, anchoring robot, and auxiliary transportation robot group has been proposed. A data-driven multi-machine, multi-process collaborative control behavior planning and decision-making method is proposed. In addition, it is proposed to construct a complete coal mine underground cross-system full-temporal-spatial information digital sensing system, build a data sensing intelligent monitoring platform with multi-parameter, multi-scale and full-temporal-spatial characteristics, that integrates the production state of underground site, spatial information of roadway, state of heading equipment, and risk information, etc., and realize a real-time communication between virtual system and actual tunneling system, so as to realize the intelligent and less-manned heading through data-driven planning and analysis.

ObjectiveThis investigation aimed to explore the potential causal relationship between physical activity, sedentary behavior and the risk of sepsis.MethodsUsing a two-sample Mendelian randomization approach, this study evaluated the association between physical activity (including moderate to vigorous physical activity [MVPA], vigorous physical activity [VPA], and accelerometer assessed physical activity) and sedentary behaviors (including television watching, computer use, and driving) with the risk of sepsis. This assessment was based on whole-genome association study data from the UK Biobank and the FinnGen database. Causal inferences were estimated using inverse variance-weighted, weighted median, and MR-Egger methods. Sensitivity analyses were performed using Cochran’s Q test, the MR-Egger intercept test, and the leave-one-out method.ResultsThe risk of sepsis was significantly inversely associated with genetically predicted MVPA (odds ratio [OR] 0.47, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.24–0.93, P = 0.0296) and VPA alone (OR 0.19, 95% CI 0.04–0.87, P = 0.0324). Conversely, prolonged driving time showed a significant positive association with the risk of sepsis (OR 3.99, 95% CI 1.40–11.40, P = 0.0097).ConclusionThis study provides preliminary evidence of a causal relationship between MVPA and VPA and a reduced risk of sepsis, while prolonged sedentary behaviors such as driving are positively associated with an increased risk of sepsis. These findings provided essential scientific evidence for the development of effective sepsis prevention strategies.

Introduction Fatigue is a common symptom observed in post-cancer treatment, yet its underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Acupuncture has been employed to alleviate cancer-related fatigue (CRF); however, its effectiveness in addressing associated comorbidities that may influence fatigue is also poorly understood. This study represents the first investigation to use acupuncture as an intervention for fatigue in breast cancer survivors within a Norwegian cohort. The study will employ questionnaires to evaluate various facets of fatigue. As a pragmatic trial, it statistically assesses its clinical relevance, documents adverse events and evaluates the cost-effectiveness of the acupuncture treatment.Methods and analysis This assessor-blinded, pragmatic, randomised, mixed method, controlled trial with two parallel arms aims to evaluate the effectiveness, safety and cost-effectiveness of acupuncture. It will recruit 250 participants presented with CRF for 6 months or longer. Patients will be randomly allocated either to acupuncture and usual care (n=125) or to usual care alone (n=125). Acupuncture treatments (12 in total) are to be given within 12 weeks. The statistician who will analyse the data will be blinded to group allocation. The primary outcome will be changes in CRF measured by the Chalder fatigue scale. Measurements will be taken 12 weeks and 6 months after randomisation. The secondary outcomes include patient-reported outcomes of pain, anxiety, depression, hot flashes, insomnia and sleepiness. Health-related quality of life and economic evaluation will also be conducted 12 weeks and 6 months after randomisation. Nested within this randomised controlled trial are two qualitative studies and one sub-study measuring biomarkers (C-reactive protein, interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and aPL in addition to the current genotype genes TNF-308 and IL-6–174) from blood samples (n=80). Such biomarkers can potentially address changes in CRF.Ethics and dissemination Ethical approval of this study has been granted by the Regional Committees for Medical and Health Research Ethics (REC southeast ID number: 112285). Written informed consent will be obtained from all participants. The outcomes of the trial will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications.Trial registration number NCT04418115.

A reasonable layout of subsurface drainage systems is considered essential for maximizing its drainage and salt control effectiveness. In the saline-alkali farmland of arid regions in Northwest China, low-permeability interlayers (clay, clay-loam or silty-loam) within the soils are common. However, the influence of the low-permeability interlayers on the layout of the subsurface drainage has not been extensively considered in the literature. This study investigated the process of subsurface drainage and salt discharge in salt-affected fields with silty-loam interlayers using field experiments and numerical simulations. Four field experiments were conducted, considering three different relative positions between the drainage pipes and silty-loam interlayers. The results showed that the silty-loam interlayers hindered water infiltration, and the distribution of soil salinity in the soil profile varied with the buried depth of drainage pipes at different positions relative to the silty-loam interlayer. When the buried depth of drainage pipes increased, the amount of water and salt discharged from drainage pipes increased, and the increase rate in salt discharge was greater than water drainage. A numerical model was calibrated and validated using the field experiment data, and 25 orthogonal numerical experiments were conducted to investigate the soil desalination effects of buried depth of drainage pipes, spacing between the pipes, saturated hydraulic conductivity of the interlayer, and position of the low-permeability interlayer. The results showed that the drainage pipe buried depth, spacing, and saturated hydraulic conductivity of the low-permeability interlayer had significant effects on the desalination rate (P < 0.01), while the position of the low-permeability interlayer had no significant effect (P > 0.05). Subsurface drainage pipes should be placed below the low-permeability interlayer. The desalination rate linearly increased with the buried depth of drainage pipe and saturated hydraulic conductivity of the interlayer, and it increased exponentially with decreased spacing. An empirical formula for soil desalination rate considering interlayer and subsurface drainage pipe layout parameters was fabricated and used to determine the appropriate layout parameters.

Abstract Since thermoelectric materials have different physical and chemical properties, the design of contact layers requires dedicated efforts, and the welding temperatures are distinctly different. Therefore, a general interface design and connection technology can greatly facilitate the development of thermoelectric devices. Herein, we proposed a screening strategy for the contact materials based on the calculation of phase diagram method, and Mg2Ni has been identified as a matched contact layer for n-type Mg3Sb2-based materials. And this screening strategy can be effectively applied to other thermoelectric materials. By adopting the low-temperature sintering silver nanoparticles technology, the Zintl phase thermoelectric device can be fabricated at low temperature but operate at medium temperature. The single-leg n-type Mg3.15Co0.05SbBi0.99Se0.01 device achieves an efficiency of ~13.3%, and a high efficiency of ~11% at the temperature difference of 430 K has been realized for the Zintl phase thermoelectric device comprised together with p-type Yb0.9Mg0.9Zn1.198Ag0.002Sb2. Additionally, the thermal aging and thermal cycle experiments proved the long-term reliability of the Mg2Ni/Mg3.15Co0.05SbBi0.99Se0.01 interface and the nano-silver sintering joints. Our work paves an effective avenue for the development of advanced devices for thermoelectric power generation.

Abstract Background High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has been shown to enhance cardiovascular health. However, there is a lack of research investigating the specific cardiovascular effects of different HIIT training modes. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the acute effects of cycling-type high intensity interval training (C-HIIT) and resistance-type high intensity interval training (R-HIIT) on arterial stiffness, cardiac autonomic modulation, and cardiac biomarkers in healthy young men. Methods This is a cross-over randomized trial. Eleven healthy active young men took part in both C-HIIT and R-HIIT. Cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI), heart rate variability (HRV), and systolic blood pressure (SBP) were measured before, immediately and 30 min after the exercise in C-HIIT and R-HIIT. Meanwhile, blood samples for cardiac troponin-T (cTnT) and amino-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) were assessed using ELISA before, 5min and 35min after exercise. Results There was a significant time × group interaction effect (P = 0.019, η p 2 = 0.182) and time main effect for ⊿CAVI (P

Abstract Background Antibody-mediated immune responses play a crucial role in the immune defense of human body. The evolution of bioengineering has led the progress of antibody-derived drugs, showing promising efficacy in cancer and autoimmune disease therapy. A critical step of this development process is obtaining the affinity between antibodies and their binding antigens. Results In this study, we introduce a novel sequence-based antigen–antibody affinity prediction method, named DG-Affinity. DG-Affinity uses deep neural networks to efficiently and accurately predict the affinity between antibodies and antigens from sequences, without the need for structural information. The sequences of both the antigen and the antibody are first transformed into embedding vectors by two pre-trained language models, then these embeddings are concatenated into an ConvNeXt framework with a regression task. The results demonstrate the superiority of DG-Affinity over the existing structure-based prediction methods and the sequence-based tools, achieving a Pearson’s correlation of over 0.65 on an independent test dataset. Conclusions Compared to the baseline methods, DG-Affinity achieves the best performance and can advance the development of antibody design. It is freely available as an easy-to-use web server at https://www.digitalgeneai.tech/solution/affinity .

In order to improve the production efficiency of the coal washing process, increase the service life of the washing equipment, maximize the potential production capacity of the screening equipment in the coal preparation plant, improve the rationality of the screening process, comprehensively improve the relaxation screen screening system and reduce the wear rate of the screen surface due to the high screening efficiency, a measure of adjusting the performance parameters of the relaxation screen is proposed to optimize the screening efficiency and reduce the wear of the screen surface. The flexible sieve plate is discretized to reduce the complexity of the simulation process of the flexible sieve plate, and the multi-body dynamics simulation and the discrete element method are used to numerically simulate the sieving process of the sieve surface, and the performance parameters of the relaxation sieve are obtained. : The influence law of relaxation frequency, sieve surface inclination, and relaxation amount on screening efficiency, and considering the correlation coefficient method and the significance test method comprehensively, it is determined that the relaxation amount is a non-key factor affecting the screening efficiency. On the basis of summarizing the wear law of the relaxation sieve screening process, the influence law of the sieve surface relaxation amount on the wear depth in the simulation process is obtained through the Relative Wear and Archard Wear models. Based on the dual effects of relaxation on screening efficiency and wear depth, the linear weighting method was selected for multi-objective optimization of screen surface performance, and the performance parameters of the screen surface that ensured the highest screening efficiency and minimum wear depth were obtained and verified by simulation. The research results show that: the screening efficiency decreases with the increase of the inclination angle of the screen surface, and the greater the relaxation amount and the relaxation frequency, the change rule increases first and then decreases; After increasing, the trend decreases. Considering the screening efficiency and the wear of the screen surface comprehensively, the optimal performance parameters of the screen surface are obtained, that is, when the relaxation amount of the screen surface is selected as 5 mm, the screening efficiency can reach 80.85%, and the wear depth of the screen surface It is only 0.051 6 mm, compared with the optimal screening efficiency, the wear of the screen surface is reduced by 26.5%, while the screening efficiency is only reduced by 0.48%, which can significantly reduce the wear of the screen surface under the condition that the screening efficiency is less affected. It shows that the sieving performance of the optimized relaxation sieve has been significantly improved. The adoption of the above technical solutions can effectively improve the performance parameters of the screening link in the washing process, improve the production capacity of the equipment, and provide technical support for the intelligence of the washing system of the coal preparation plant.

Abstract This report introduces a young adult who has been in bed for more than ten years with end-stage hemophilic arthropathy. He didn’t have access to factor VIII (FVIII) in the early stage of hemophilia due to the high costs of clotting replacement therapy. As a result, he is experiencing some difficulties, such as joint contracture, muscular atrophy, severe pain, and poor function of cardiopulmonary. He came to visit us for a comprehensive rehabilitation program, and, finally, he achieved the basic goal of self-care in daily life.

A new type of parallel operation unit for excavation, support and anchor is proposed to address the imbalance of excavation and anchor ratio in coal mines. It has high adaptability to the shape of tunnel sections, coal rock properties, and unevenness of roof and floor under complex geological conditions. By equipped with a multi posture new anchoring drilling rig system, the synchronous parallel and fast operation mode of excavation and anchor is achieved; Considering factors such as the spatial position relationship of anchor excavation operation, the shape and size of anchor section, and the influence of coupling vibration of anchor operation, a drilling vibration suppression device for anchor drilling rig system is proposed, which adopts a “sky to earth” stable support form to reduce the coupling vibration influence of adjacent systems during synchronous operation of anchor drilling rig group system; Considering that the anchor drilling rig group is composed of multi mass and multi degree of freedom systems, a vibration Transitive model diagram of the unit’s attitude changing operation state under complex terrain conditions is proposed. The finite element analysis software Abaqus is used to simulate the drilling conditions with different rock properties, and the analysis can obtain the change law of the drill pipe’s propulsion resistance under different coal seam conditions; In order to find out the variation law of the stiffness value of the key components of the anchoring drill system under the action of the vibration suppression device, the variation range of the stiffness value of the beam stretching out of different lengths and the cylinder outrigger stretching out/retracting state is solved based on the deformation coordination method in Strength of materials; Through the List of numerical-analysis software Matlab, the dynamic model of the above anchoring rig system is solved, and the vibration parameters of the rig group under different working conditions such as the extension of the left and right crossbeams and the extension and retraction of the outriggers are obtained. The analysis shows that the drilling rig outriggers have a very significant effect on reducing the lateral rolling vibration of the anchoring unit. By conducting prototype testing and analysis of the anchoring system, it is verified that the vibration suppression effect of the support legs of the anchoring drilling rig system meets the requirements. By improving the stability of the anchoring system, a certain theoretical basis can be provided for research on automatic anchoring positioning, drilling and hole forming quality, and other aspects.

Abstract Selective hydrogenation of carbon monoxide (CO) to higher alcohols (C2+OH) is a promising non-petroleum route for producing high-value chemicals, in which precise regulations of both C-O cleavage and C-C coupling are highly essential but remain great challenges. Herein, we report that highly selective CO hydrogenation to C2-4OH is achieved over a potassium-modified edge-rich molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) catalyst, which delivers a high CO conversion of 17% with a superior C2-4OH selectivity of 45.2% in hydrogenated products at 240 °C and 50 bar, outperforming previously reported non-noble metal-based catalysts under similar conditions. By regulating the relative abundance of edge to basal plane, C2-4OH to methanol selectivity ratio can be overturned from 0.4 to 2.2. Mechanistic studies reveal that sulfur vacancies at MoS2 edges boost carbon-chain growth by facilitating not only C-O cleavage but also C-C coupling, while potassium promotes the desorption of alcohols via electrostatic interaction with hydroxyls, thereby enabling preferential formation of C2-4OH.

Abstract Quzhou Aurantii Fructus (QAF) has a long history as a folk medicine and food for the treatment of liver diseases. While our earlier study provided evidence of hepatoprotective properties contained within the flavonoids and limonins constituents in QAF, the potential preventative effects afforded by essential oil components present within QAF remains enigmatic. In this study, we prepared Quzhou Aurantii Fructus essential oil (QAFEO) and confirmed its anti-inflammatory effects on liver inflammation through experimentation on lipopolysaccharide and D-galactosamine (LPS/D-GalN) induced acute liver failure (ALF) mouse models. Using RNA-sequence (RNA-seq) analysis, we found that QAFEO prevented ALF by systematically blunting the pathways involved in response to LPS and toll-like receptor signaling pathways. QAFEO effectively suppressed the phosphorylation of tank-binding kinase 1 (TBK1), TGF-beta activated kinase 1 (TAK1), interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3), and the activation of mitogen activated kinase-like protein (MAPK) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathways in vivo and in vitro. Importantly, QAFEO substantially reduced myeloid differentiation primary response gene 88 (MyD88)- toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) interaction levels. Moreover, 8 compounds from QAFEO could directly bind to REAL, TAK1, MyD88, TBK1, and IRF3. Taken together, the results of our study support the notion that QAFEO exerts a hepatoprotective effect through inhibiting LPS-mediated inflammatory response. Graphical abstract

Abstract High-efficiency rock breaking technology is an important problem to be solved urgently in deep mining. The existing auxiliary rock breaking technology for coal mine excavation has problems such as polluting coal, high requirements for tool materials, and difficulty in subsequent washing. In this paper, an active excitation cutting system for rotary cylinder of cantilever roadheader based on alternating valve is proposed. According to the classical calculation formula of cutting load of roadheader, considering the stiffness-damping characteristics of cutting part and cutting cylinder, the simulation algorithm of cutting load is compiled based on MATLAB simulation analysis software. The excitation cutting experiments of different cutting depths are carried out on the cutting test bench, and compared with the simulation algorithm of cutting load. Taking the cutting load as the discriminant index, the influence of oil supply pressure and excitation frequency of rotary cylinder on the cutting load is analyzed based on the simulation algorithm of cutting load. The results show that the error between the simulation results and the experimental results of the active excitation state is less than 12%, and the two are in good agreement. Under the condition of 30 HZ, when the excitation amplitude is 8 Mpa, 10 Mpa, 12 Mpa, 14 Mpa, when the rotary cylinder excitation amplitude is 10 Mpa, the minimum is 131.42 KN. Compared with the rotary cylinder excitation amplitude under the condition of 10 Mpa, when the excitation frequency is 30 HZ, 35 HZ, 40 HZ, 45 HZ, when the excitation frequency is 40 HZ, the minimum is 83.08 KN, indicating that changing the excitation amplitude or oil supply pressure of the rotary cylinder is helpful to adjust the cutting performance.

Improvement of sugarcane is hampered due to its narrow genetic base, and the difficulty in synchronizing flowering further hinders the exploitation of the genetic potential of available germplasm resources. Therefore, the continuous evaluation and optimization of flowering control and induction techniques are vital for sugarcane improvement. In view of this, the review was conducted to investigate the current understanding of photoperiodic and lighting treatment effects on sugarcane flowering and its genetic regulation. Photoperiod facilities have made a significant contribution to flowering control in sugarcane; however, inductive photoperiods are still unknown for some genotypes, and some intended crosses are still impossible to produce because of unresponsive varieties. The effectiveness of lower red/far-red ratios in promoting sugarcane flowering has been widely understood. Furthermore, there is vast potential for utilizing blue, red, and far-red light wavelengths in the flowering control of sugarcane. In this context, light-emitting diodes (LEDs) remain efficient sources of light. Therefore, the combined use of photoperiod regimes with different light wavelengths and optimization of such treatment combinations might help to control and induce flowering in sugarcane parental clones. In sugarcane, FLOWERING LOCUS T (ScFT) orthologues from ScFT1 to ScFT13 have been identified, and interestingly, ScFT3 has evidently been identified as a floral inducer in sugarcane. However, independent assessments of different FT-like gene family members are recommended to comprehensively understand their role in the regulation of flowering. Similarly, we believe this review provides substantial information that is vital for the manipulation of flowering and exploitation of germplasm resources in sugarcane breeding.

Abstract Retraction: [Jun Mao, Jun Ma, Research on wavelet neural network PID control of maglev linear synchronous motor, IET Circuits, Devices & Systems 2022 (https://doi.org/10.1049/cds2.12136)]. The above article from IET Circuits, Devices & Systems, published online on 8 December 2022 in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com), has been retracted by agreement between the Editor‐in‐Chief, Harry E. Ruda, the Institution of Engineering and Technology (the IET) and John Wiley and Sons Ltd. This article was published as part of a Guest Edited special issue. Following an investigation, the IET and the journal have determined that the article was not reviewed in line with the journal’s peer review standards and there is evidence that the peer review process of the special issue underwent systematic manipulation. Accordingly, we cannot vouch for the integrity or reliability of the content. As such we have taken the decision to retract the article. The authors have been informed of the decision to retract.

Abstract To deeply analyse the dynamic characteristics of the scraper conveyor during operation, the mechanical characteristics of the coupled longitudinal and torsional vibrational modes under excitation by cargo loading are studied. Based on the Kelvin‒Voigt model and the point-by-point tension method, a model of the coupled longitudinal and torsional vibrations of the scraper chain drive system is established. Then the functional program is constructed and the numerical simulation is carried out. Finally, the correctness of the model is verified by comparison with experiments. The research results reveal the torsional vibration characteristics of the scraper chain drive system under two different working conditions, light load and medium load, and determine the influence area of the torsional vibration of the scraper. The results of this analysis provide a theoretical basis for the subsequent optimization of the scraper parameters, the prediction of scraper chain drive system failure, and the calculation to give an early warning before failure occurs.

Sugarcane, a vital cash crop, contributes significantly to the world’s sugar supply and raw materials for biofuel production, playing a significant role in the global sugar industry. However, sustainable productivity is severely hampered by biotic and abiotic stressors. Genetic engineering has been used to transfer useful genes into sugarcane plants to improve desirable traits and has emerged as a basic and applied research method to maintain growth and productivity under different adverse environmental conditions. However, the use of transgenic approaches remains contentious and requires rigorous experimental methods to address biosafety challenges. Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR) mediated genome editing technology is growing rapidly and may revolutionize sugarcane production. This review aims to explore innovative genetic engineering techniques and their successful application in developing sugarcane cultivars with enhanced resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses to produce superior sugarcane cultivars.

The efficient, simple and low-cost photocatalysts has become a hot topic in the field of photocatalysis, ZnO has attracted the attention of researchers due to its high photocatalytic efficiency. Although, the broad band gap of around 3.4 eV in ZnO greatly limits its optical absorption efficiency. Based on this, two types of InSe/ZnO heterojunction models with different configurations are constructed, their electronic and optical properties are studied through first principles calculations. The results indicate that the II InSe/ZnO heterojunction has a band gap of 1.84 eV, which compensates for the shortcomings of ZnO monolayer broad band gap absorption of visible light and the difficulty of InSe monolayer in participating in water splitting oxidation reactions. The construction of heterojunctions using InSe and ZnO significantly improves the light absorption efficiency, especially in the visible spectral region, compared to ZnO monolayers, accelerating the generation and migration efficiency of photo generated electrons, thereby improving the catalytic efficiency of ZnO.

Wind conditions in gorges have a significant impact on the safe operation of high-speed trains, due to the lack of a unified gorge wind model and the limitations of traditional simulations that use oversimplified wind models, the complex wind speed distribution arising from the mountain surface boundary layer cannot be accurately captured. To address this, a three-dimensional, incompressible, steady calculation method is used to study wind field characteristics in a typical gorge. We propose a two-dimensional mathematical model to study the effects of gorge width on model parameters, including wind speed growth indices α1 and α2 in the height and horizontal directions, respectively. Our results demonstrate that the thickness of the mountain boundary layer can reach a maximum of approximately 30 metres, and the values of α1 and α2 range from 0.11 to 0.19 and 0.21 to 0.5, respectively. As gorge width increases, boundary layer thickness remains constant, α1 gradually decreases, α2 remains unchanged above 250 m height. Our findings provide more accurate boundary conditions for numerical simulations of high-speed train operation in gorge wind conditions and offer theoretical recommendations for safe high-speed train operation through bridges, tunnels, and railways in mountainous regions.

Purpose: This study aimed to compare the effects on muscle hypertrophy and muscular performance of two resistance training (RT) programs that differed only in set structure: traditional set structure (TS) vs. rest redistribution set structure (RR).Methods: Thirty untrained young men were pair-matched and randomly assigned to a TS (n = 15) or an RR (n = 15) protocol based on individual baseline measures. Participants trained for 8 weeks using the same total body RT routines performed twice weekly. The TS protocol comprised four sets of 10 repetitions per exercise with 120-s interset rest, and the RR involved eight sets of five repetitions per exercise with 51-s interset rest. Participants were tested pre- and post-intervention for body composition, regional muscle thickness, upper- and lower-body muscle maximal strength [1-repetition maximum (1RM)], mean power output and velocity at 75% 1RM and muscular endurance (repetitions to failure at 70% 1RM).Results: Compared to baseline, both groups exhibited equally significantly decreased body fat mass (p < 0.05), increased fat-free mass (p < 0.001), muscle thickness (p < 0.05), upper and lower-body muscular maximal strength (p < 0.001) and endurance performance (p < 0.001). However, both groups only increase the lower-body power output (p < 0.001) but not the upper-body (p > 0.05). No significant differences existed between groups for all measurements (p > 0.05).Conclusion: These results suggest that RR and TS groups have similar effects for improving muscle hypertrophy and performance in untrained young men.

This meta-analysis examined the predictive value of admission serum and urine carboxypeptidase-B activation peptide (CAPAP) in patients with severe acute pancreatitis. PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched for relevant studies published up to February 21, 2022. Seven studies (439 acute pancreatitis patients) were included. The summary sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio (PLR), negative likelihood ratio (NLR), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of admission serum CAPAP were 0.86 (95%CI: 0.76-0.93), 0.78 (95%CI: 0.68-0.85), 3.89 (95%CI: 2.56-5.91), 0.18 (95%CI: 0.09-0.33), 18.56 (95%CI: 6.99-49.30), and 0.90 (95%CI: 0.87-0.92), respectively; these values for admission urine CAPAP were 0.82 (95%CI: 0.50-0.95), 0.78 (95%CI: 0.68-0.86), 3.75 (95%CI: 2.40-5.85), 0.23 (95%CI: 0.07-0.79), 9.87 (95%CI: 3.71-26.22), and 0.84 (95%CI: 0.80-0.87), respectively. There were no significant differences between admission serum and urine CAPAP in sensitivity (1.05, 95%CI: 0.75-1.47; P = 0.781), specificity (1.00, 95%CI: 0.85-1.18; P = 1.000), PLR (1.04, 95%CI: 0.56-1.91; P = 0.906), NLR (0.78, 95%CI: 0.20-3.10; P = 0.727), and DOR (1.88, 95%CI: 0.47-7.49; P = 0.370). The AUC of serum CAPAP (1.07, 95%: 1.02-1.13; P = 0.007) was higher than that of urine CAPAP in predicting acute pancreatitis severity. Both admission serum and urine CAPAP had moderate predictive values for assessing the severity of acute pancreatitis. Key highlights Both admission serum and urine carboxypeptidase-B activation peptide (CAPAP) had moderate predictive values for assessing the severity of acute pancreatitis. The predictive value of admission serum CAPAP was higher than that of admission urine CAPAP in predicting acute pancreatitis severity. Including the measurement of serum CAPAP at admission in patients with suspected pancreatitis could help triage the patients and determine the course of management. Hospital policymakers could consider including it among the routine tests at admission for such patients.

Abstract Background Retinoblastoma (RB) is frequently occurring malignant tumors that originate in the retina, and their exact cause and development mechanisms are yet to be fully comprehended. In this study, we identified possible biomarkers for RB and delved into the molecular mechanics linked with such markers. Methods In this study GSE110811 and GSE24673 were analyzed. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was applied to screen modules and genes associated with RB. By overlapping RB-related module genes with differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between RB and control samples, differentially expressed retinoblastoma genes (DERBGs) were acquired. A gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis and a kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis were conducted to explore the functions of these DERBGs. To study the protein interactions of DERBGs, a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed. Hub DERBGs were screened using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis, as well as the random forest (RF) algorithm. Additionally, the diagnostic performance of RF and LASSO methods was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and single-gene gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was conducted to explore the potential molecular mechanisms involved with these Hub DERBGs. In addition, the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) regulatory network of Hub DERBGs was constructed. Result About 133 DERBGs were found to be associated with RB. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses revealed that the important pathways of these DERBGs. Furthermore, the PPI network revealed 82 DERBGs interacting with each other. By RF and LASSO methods, PDE8B, ESRRB, and SPRY2 were identified as Hub DERBGs in patients with RB. From the expression assessment of Hub DERBGs, it was found that the levels of expression of PDE8B, ESRRB, and SPRY2 were significantly decreased in the tissues of RB tumors. Secondly, single-gene GSEA revealed a connection between these 3 Hub DERBGs and oocyte meiosis, cell cycle, and spliceosome. Finally, the ceRNA regulatory network revealed that hsa-miR-342-3p, hsa-miR-146b-5p, hsa-miR-665, and hsa-miR-188-5p may play a central role in the disease. Conclusion Hub DERBGs may provide new insight into RB diagnosis and treatment based on the understanding of disease pathogenesis.

Abstract Flexible thermoelectric generators can power wearable electronics by harvesting body heat. However, existing thermoelectric materials rarely realize high flexibility and output properties simultaneously. Here we present a facile, cost-effective, and scalable two-step impregnation method for fabricating a three-dimensional thermoelectric network with excellent elasticity and superior thermoelectric performance. The reticular construction endows this material with ultra-light weight (0.28 g cm−3), ultra-low thermal conductivity (0.04 W m−1 K−1), moderate softness (0.03 MPa), and high elongation (>100%). The obtained network-based flexible thermoelectric generator achieves a pretty high output power of 4 μW cm−2, even comparable to state-of-the-art bulk-based flexible thermoelectric generators.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a group of toxic organic compounds from vehicle emissions. Many PAHs are carcinogenic, teratogenic, mutagenic, and immunotoxic, causing a negative impact on human health and severe damage to the environment and ecosystems. Although PAH derivatives, including nitro-polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (NPAHs) and oxygenated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (OPAHs), are one to three orders of magnitude lower in concentration than PAH parents, some components are far more mutagenic and carcinogenic than PAH parents. The PAHs and their derivatives in motor vehicle exhaust emission are mainly caused by the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, and their emission characteristics vary with the combustion conditions and fuel compositions. With the increasingly strict control of exhaust emission standards and the gradual popularization of electric vehicles, non-exhaust emissions have become the main contributors to traffic air pollution. Therefore, as the main source of PAHs in an urban environment, non-exhaust emissions, including brake wear, tire wear, road dust resuspension, and road wear emissions, cannot be ignored in terms of their contribution proportion. The emission characteristics of PAHs and their derivatives from vehicles are mainly affected by many factors, such as combustion conditions, road conditions, and the types of motor vehicle parts and materials. This paper collates and summarizes the existing data on vehicle exhaust and non-exhaust emissions of PAHs and their derivatives at home and abroad. In general, for exhaust emission, stricter emission standards lead to lower emission of PAHs and their derivatives; under operating modes, including cold start and acceleration, the engine combustion efficiency is reduced, leading to an increase in emission; the emission of diesel vehicles is much higher than that of gasoline vehicles; gasoline direct injection (GDI) exhibits higher PAH emissions than port fuel injection (PFI); and emissions increase with increasing vehicle mileage. At present, studies on the non-exhaust emission of PAHs and their derivatives are lacking. Existing studies find that the chemical composition of brake pads, braking conditions, tire materials, and pavement conditions affect non-exhaust emissions, but these findings have a high degree of uncertainty and need further research. This paper is intended to analyze the emission characteristics of PAHs and their derivatives from motor vehicles under different influence factors to provide a scientific basis for developing emission control technology and formulating policy standards.