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Background: Diffuse sclerosing variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (DSVPTC) is a rare but high invasive subtype of papillary thyroid carcinoma, which mandates an aggressive clinical strategy. Few studies have focused on the sonographic characteristics of DSVPTC and the role of ultrasound in diagnosis and treatment of this variant remains unknown. This study aimed to identify and understand DSVPTC more accurately under ultrasound in correlation with pathology. Methods: The ultrasound characteristics and histopathologic sections of 10 lesions in 10 DSVPTC patients who underwent thyroid surgery at our center between 2014 and 2020 were reviewed and compared with 184 lesions in 168 classic variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (cPTC) patients. Results: 6 DSVPTC cases (60%) showed the "snowstorm" pattern on sonogram and 4 cases (40%) presented hypoechoic solid nodules only. Vague borders (100.0% vs. 18.5%, P = 0.019) and abundant microcalcifications (66.7% vs. 10.9%, P = 0.037) were more common in DSVPTC nodules than in cPTC nodules, corresponding to the infiltrating boundaries and numerous psammoma bodies under the microscope respectively. Most of the DSVPTC cases had a heterogeneous background (80%) and suspicious metastatic cervical lymph nodes (80%) on sonograms. All DSVPTC cases had histopathological metastatic cervical lymph nodes. Conclusion: The sonographic "snowstorm" pattern indicated DSVPTC with whole-lobe occupation. Hypoechoic solid nodules with vague borders and abundant microcalcifications on sonogram suggested DSVPTC lesion with an ongoing invasion. Regardless of which of the two sonograms was shown, the corresponding DSVPTC lesions were aggressive and required the same attention from the surgeons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) system becomes a significant part of urban transportation network system based on the information and communication technologies, but rarely received attention in tourism transport. This paper explored the impact of travel mode preferences on habitual choice behavior for MaaS in tourism, and an online survey and stated preference experiments were designed and carried out. Respondents were divided into three categories including strictly preference (SP) group, weak preference (WP) group, and no preference (NP) group, accounting for 25.09%, 72.24%, and 2.67% respectively. Estimation results of the mode choice random parameter logit (RPL) models indicate that explanatory variables of the alternatives (e.g., the total travel time, in-vehicle cost, and walking distance) only affect the travel mode choices for WP group, which are insensitive to the SP group and NP group. Marginal effect analysis shows that mode choice preferences for MaaS are influenced as tour experience and daily travel habits change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we synthesized a novel β-cyclodextrin/poly(2-acrylamide-2-methylpropionic acid)/attapulgite (CAMA) hydrogel for uranium(VI) adsorption. Various instrumental techniques such as FTIR, SEM, EDX, and TGA were utilized for characterization of the CAMA. Simultaneously, different important parameters, in specific pH, time, initial uranyl ion concentration and temperature were investigated to evaluate the optimal conditions of the adsorption process. The experiments proofs that the adsorption follows the pseudo-second-order kinetic model so as the Langmuir model, and revealed the maximum adsorption capacity of 434.78 mg g−1 at 298.15 K. Regeneration studies further sighted out the good reusability of the synthesized CAMA hydrogel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The separation and enrichment of uranium from various resources such as seawater is of great significance to the sustainable development of nuclear energy. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop an adsorbent with low cost and easy availability, simple preparation process, and environment friendly. In this work, we used inexpensive natural polymer material (sodium alginate) and natural adsorbents (β -cyclodextrin and diatomite) to prepare a novel biosorbent β -cyclodextrin/sodium alginate/diatomite (CSD) hydrogel beads for uranium adsorption by a simple method. The results of FTIR, XRD, SEM, EDX and XPS characterization proved that the CSD were prepared. Static adsorption experiments showed that pH, contact time, initial concentration of U(VI) and temperature has significant impact on the adsorption capacity of CSD. Adsorption fitted the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Langmuir model and the adsorption mechanism is chemical adsorption. In the presence of other metal ions (Cu2+, Mg2+, Ca2+, Na+, K+), CSD has obvious selectivity for uranium(VI) adsorption. In addition, the elution and reusability studies show that CSD has excellent reusability. Overall, CSD is an inexpensive, green preparation, efficient, and environment friendly biosorbent with obvious selectivity for U(VI). It has potential application in U(VI) enrichment from seawater or salt lake water. • A Novel CSD biosorbent was successfully prepared by using naturally available materials β -cyclodextrin, sodium alginate and diatomite. • CSD biosorbent was prepared by calcium ion cross-linking, which does not require synthesis. • CSD is a non-toxic and environment friendly biosorbent. • CSD exhibits high adsorption capacity, excellent reusability and have obvious selectivity for U(VI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • EHP infection changed the composition of gut microbiota of E. carinicauda. • Bifidobacterium animali and Lactococcus garvieae significantly reduced EHP load of EHP infecting individuals. • Bifidobacterium animali and Lactococcus garvieae improved the morphology and structure of the hepatopancreas and intestinal tissue of EHP infecting individuals. To explore the relationship between the intestinal flora of Exopalaemon Carinicauda and infection by Enterocytozoo Hepatopenaei (EHP), we analyzed the species and richness of gut microbiota in infected individuals in different EHP load groups [i.e., control (C), high load (H), and low load (L)] using gene sequencing after infection. The results showed that the abundance of intestinal flora in the high-load EHP group was significantly lower than that in the healthy group. Based on the UPGMA cluster tree and PCoA analysis, with comparisons to healthy shrimp, the gut microbiota of the EHP high load and low load groups were clustered into one branch, which indicated that EHP infection changed the composition of the gut microbiota of infected shrimps. The heat map analysis of species abundance clustering revealed that the dominant bacteria in the low EHP load group and the control group were beneficial genera such as Lactococcus , Ligilactobacillius , and Bifidobacterium , but the dominant bacteria in the high EHP load group were harmful genera such as Pseudomonas , Photobacterium, and Candidatus hepatincola. The functions of the intestinal flora predicted that most genes related to metabolism were more abundant in healthy shrimp, most genes related to metabolism and the organisms' system were more abundant in the low EHP load group, and most genes related to diseases and environmental information processing were more abundant in the high EHP load group. After separation and purification, the dominant bacteria (Bifidobacterium animalis in healthy shrimp and Lactococcus garvieae in the low EHP load group) and the non-dominant bacteria (Macrococus caseolyticus in the low EHP load group) were obtained. Each of these isolated strains were used together with EHP to infect E. carinicauda , and the results showed that Bifidobacterium animali and Lactococcus garvieae significantly reduced the EHP load in EHP-infected individuals. At the same time, the morphology and structure of the hepatopancreas and intestinal tissue of EHP-infected E. carinicauda were improved. No improvement was seen in tissue that was infected with Macrococus caseolyticus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical ionization mass spectrometry (CIMS) is a soft ionization technique and has become an important research tool for real-time atmospheric pollutants measurement, providing reliable datasets for elucidating the pollution formation in atmospheric environment. This review presented a summary of recent progress in development, equipment and application of CIMS in atmospheric environment, including origin of CIMS, development of ion chemistry theory in CIMS, and new hardware design of CIMS, as well as application of CIMS in monitoring of atmospheric pollutants. First, the origin and emergence of CIMS were presented through summarizing the detailed evolution history of mass spectrometry. Next, the ion chemistry theories of CIMS and their development were elaborated, including proton transfer, electron transfer, hydride abstraction, cluster or adduct ion formation and other reactions. Then, the progress of the hardware design of CIMS was focused on its ion source, drift tube and mass analyzer, and the latest equipment development was also discussed. Subsequently, on the basis of introducing the calibration method, the recent application of CIMS in the field observation and laboratory research toward atmospheric inorganic gas, volatile organics, free radicals, and aerosols were introduced. Finally, future directions and trends for CIMS were proposed to promote its efficacy in detecting atmospheric pollutants. The review provides a latest summary of CIMS development in the theory, hardware and application, facilitating a profound exploration of the potential impact of atmospheric pollutants on environment quality and human health. • Origin of CIMS was presented via summarizing detail history of mass spectrometry • Ion chemistry theory of CIMS and its development were elaborated • Hardware design of CIMS focused on ion source, drift tube and mass analyzer • Recent application of CIMS in field observation and laboratory research • Future trends were proposed to promote efficacy in atmospheric pollutant detection [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The structure of renewable energy (RE) development varies substantially across China's provinces, and the spatio-temporal pattern evolution is too pronounced to allow direct comparisons. Therefore, a reasonable method for RE efficiency estimation is important. Markov and spatial Markov chains can be used to analyze the evolution of the temporal and spatial patterns of provincial RE. Simultaneously, data envelopment analysis game cross-efficiency evaluation can quantify the RE generation efficiency of each province from the perspective of competition. Nine factors were selected to identify the key influencing factors the RE generation efficiency. From the perspective of spatio-temporal heterogeneity, a geographically and temporally weighted regression model was combined for spatial modeling. Results show a significant change in the categories of wind and solar power installations, a medium change in biomass installations, and a small change in hydropower installations. Two-thirds of the provincial RE generation efficiency increased from 2015 to 2020. There is spatio-temporal heterogeneity regarding the impact of various factors on the RE generation efficiency: The impact of technology market transactions exhibits the greatest inter-provincial variation and the impact of electricity industry investment exhibits the smallest inter-provincial variation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Establishing HWPS investment limitation and suitability assessment indicator systems. • Determination of expert weights using dynamic social networks. • TIFN was used to quantify the qualitative indicators. • Combining BWM and CRITIC combination weighting and TODIM to rank the alternatives. • Investment suitability assessment of 62 completed hydropower plants in China. The hydropower-wind-photovoltaic-storage (HWPS) complementary system is one of the essential ways for China to build a new type of power system and to realize the dual-carbon goal. However, China's HWPS complementary system is still in the exploratory stage, and it is important to propose a rational multi-attribute decision-making (MADM) framework for investment suitability assessment based on completed hydropower plants. Therefore, this study first established a limitation indicator system for preliminary screening hydropower plants and an HWPS investment suitability assessment indicator system containing six dimensions: nature, market, infrastructure, land, society, and environment. Second, the weights among experts were determined based on the dynamic social network, and a mechanism for updating expert weights was proposed. Again, triangular intuitionistic fuzzy number (TIFN) was used to quantify the qualitative indicators and combined the weights according to the best-worst method (BWM) and criteria importance through intercriteria correlation (CRITIC) methods. Finally, the TODIM (an acronym in Portuguese for interactive and MADM) method was used for scheme suitability assessment with sensitivity analysis and method comparison. The results show that 62 eligible hydropower plants were preliminarily screened out of 647 completed medium- and large-scale hydropower plants in China by combining GIS technology. Natural factors are the most important of the six dimensions, followed by social factors. According to the suitability assessment results of TODIM, #23 hydropower station has the highest suitability for HWPSCS investment, which provides a reference for the layout of China's HWPS complementary system. With different decision makers' risk preferences and different MADM methods, #23 hydropower plant is still the best investment option, which proves the effectiveness of the MADM framework proposed in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant growth environment plays an important role in shaping soil microbial communities. To understand the response of soil rhizosphere microbial communities in Oplopanax elatus Nakai plant to a changed growth conditions from natural habitation to cultivation after transplant. Here, a comparative study of soil chemical properties and microbial community using high-throughput sequencing was conducted under cultivated conditions (CT) and natural conditions (WT), in Changbai Mountain, Northeast of China. The results showed that rhizosphere soil in CT had higher pH and lower content of soil organic matter (SOM) and available nitrogen compared to WT. These changes influenced rhizosphere soil microbial communities, resulting in higher soil bacterial and fungi richness and diversity in CT soil, and increased the relative abundance of bacterial phyla Acidobacteria, Chloroflexi, Gemmatimonadetes, Firmicutes and Patescibacteria, and the fungi phyla Mortierellomycota and Zoopagomycota, while decreased bacterial phyla Actinobacteria, WPS-2, Gemmatimonadetes, and Verrucomicrobia, and the fungi phyla Ascomycota, and Basidiomycota. Redundancy analysis analysis indicated soil pH and SOM were the primarily environmental drivers in shaping the rhizosphere soil microbial community in O. elatus under varied growth conditions. Therefore, more attention on soil nutrition management especially organic fertilizer inputs should be paid in O. elatus cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A method for preparing biomineralized ZrO 2 -modified seaweed residue membrane is presented. • The removal effect of the membrane on fluoride is proved. • The extraction ability of the membrane to radioactive element uranium is verified. • The antibacterial properties and mechanism of the membrane are studied and analyzed. • The sustainability of membranes is evaluated by the sustainability footprint method. Exploring and developing promising biomass composite membranes for the water purification and waste resource utilization is of great significance. The modification of biomass has always been a focus of research in its resource utilization. In this study, we successfully prepare a functional composite membrane, activated graphene oxide/seaweed residue-zirconium dioxide (GOSRZ), with fluoride removal, uranium extraction, and antibacterial activity by biomimetic mineralization of zirconium dioxide nanoparticles (ZrO 2 NPs) on seaweed residue (SR) grafted with oxidized graphene (GO). The GOSRZ membrane exhibits highly efficient and specific adsorption of fluoride. For the fluoride concentrations in the range of 100–400 mg/L in water, the removal efficiency can reach over 99 %, even in the presence of interfering ions. Satisfactory extraction rates are also achieved for uranium by the GOSRZ membrane. Additionally, the antibacterial performance studies show that this composite membrane efficiently removes Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The high adsorption of F− and U(VI) to the composite membrane is ascribed to the ionic exchange and coordination interactions, and its antibacterial activity is caused by the destruction of bacterial cell structure. The sustainability of the biomass composite membranes is further evaluated using the Sustainability Footprint method. This study provides a simple preparation method of biomass composite membrane, expands the water purification treatment technology, and offers valuable guidance for the resource utilization of seaweed waste and the removal of pollutants in wastewater. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A Novel PAO/PEI sponge was environment friendly and facilely prepared for uranium extraction from seawater. • The PAO/PEI sponge exhibit excellent selectivity and high efficiency for uranium adsorption. • PAO/PEI sponge exhibits high adsorption capacity, and excellent reusability in five consecutive cycles. • The PAO/PEI sponge can be massively and economically produced for the industrialized uranium extraction from seawater. Extracting uranium from seawater is of great significance for ensuring the sustainable development of nuclear energy. This article designs a simple and mass-produced porous sponge polyamidoxime/polyethyleneimine (PAO/PEI) for uranium extraction from seawater. The prepared porous sponge has excellent flexibility and mechanical strength, which can withstand harsh marine environments. In a 50 mg/L uranyl solution, the maximum adsorption capacity of PAO/PEI is 666.67 mg/g. Moreover, PAO/PEI sponge exhibits excellent selectivity for uranium in competitive adsorption conditions. FTIR and XPS are used to explore the adsorption mechanism, and the results showed that the synergistic effect of amidoxime and amino groups enhanced the binding of uranium(VI). The adsorption capacity after 15 days of enrichment in 100L natural seawater is 9.79 mg/g, and the average rate is 0.653 mg/g/day. The results indicate that PAO/PEI porous sponge has broad application prospects in large-scale seawater uranium(VI) extraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to evaluate the accessibility of multimode transport facilities to suburban tourist attractions, under the background of detailed needs of tour transportation planning and urban development. Accessible, convenient, and sustainable tour transportation network is the prerequisite for tourists entering tourist attractions and completing activities. Based on multisource data and the GIS network analysis method, an accessibility model of suburban tourist attractions at community scale was constructed combining population with average shortest travel distances (ASTD) or the average minimum travel time (AMTT) by auto, public transport, and bike. Taking Beijing as an empirical analysis, the main conclusions are as follows. (1) The spatial distribution of suburban tourist attractions is fan-shaped with tourism resources mainly gathering on the north, west, and south of Beijing. (2) The ASTDs of tourist attractions and communities are 73.11 and 69.40 km, respectively. The average nonlinearity coefficient of ASTD of tourist attractions is divided into three categories including high, medium and low convenience, accounting for 0%, 78.57%, and 21.43%, respectively. (3) The accessibility of suburban tourist attractions has obvious spatial difference under multimode traffic network, showing an attenuation phenomenon of diffusion from the city center to suburbs. A total of 98.21% of them can be reached within 2 h by auto, while that number drops to 37.50% by public transport, and 32.14% by bike. The proposed model applicable for the accessibility of suburban tourist attractions provides reference for in-depth description and optimization of the actual traffic accessibility, as well as tourism transportation planning within the city region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the main provider of peak regulation auxiliary services, thermal power units are particularly important to ensure their revenue in an uncertain environment. To obtain the optimal bidding strategy for thermal power units, a thermal power peak regulation bidding model based on the Northeast Power Grid's auxiliary service market bidding mechanism is established. Secondly, the evolutionary game theory is introduced into the bidding strategy of thermal power units. Meanwhile, in order to solve the multi‐party game problem, a compound differential evolution game algorithm is constructed to solve the two‐tiers bidding. Finally, based on the actual operating data of a typical day, the efficiency of the compound differential evolution game algorithm bidding strategy is verified, and the bidding strategy of thermal power units in different situations is discussed. The results show that when all units participate in peak regulation, the first‐tier quotation is an optimal strategy at 0.19 yuan kWh−1 and below, and the second‐tier quotation is distributed between 0.6–0.8 yuan kWh−1. When only some units are involved in peak regulation, the first‐tier quotation of thermal power units adopts a high price strategy, mostly at 0.3 yuan kWh−1, and the second‐tier quotation is still based on a high price strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To explore the alterations of inflammatory markers and immune-related cytokines in children infected with Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) combined with Adenovirus (ADV). Methods: The study population consisted of 201 children with MPP, and they were grouped according to whether they were coinfected with ADV infection and critically ill. Additionally, comparative analyses were performed. The diagnostic value of different indicators and combined indicators for SMPP combined with ADV was assessed using ROC curves. Results: There was no difference between group A1 and group A2, group B1 and group B2 in terms of age, gender, duration of hospitalisation and fever. The levels of calcitoninogen(PCT), lactate dehydrogenase concentration(LDH), interleukin(IL)-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-4, IL-12P70, and IFN-γ in group A were higher than group B. The severe group (A1, B1) was significantly higher than the mild group (A2, B2) in terms of D-dimer, CRP, PCT, LDH, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-17a and number of patients with pleural effusion, solid lung changes. Among the individual indexes of D-dimer, CRP, N%,LDH, and PCT, the AUC of the combined test was 0.977, which was higher than that of the individual indicators. Among IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and IL-17a, the AUC of the combined assay was 0.802, which was higher than that of the individual indicators. Conclusion: MP combined with ADV infection was associated with increased expression levels of IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-4, IL-12P70, IFN-γ, and LDH. IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-17a, LDH, PCT, CRP, and D-dimer could be used as predictors of SMPP and the combined test can improve the diagnostic value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Retinal prostheses can restore the basic visual function of patients with retinal degeneration, which relies on effective electrical stimulation to evoke the physiological activities of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Current electrical stimulation strategies have defects such as unstable effects and insufficient stimulation positions, therefore, it is crucial to determine the optimal pulse parameters for precise and safe electrical stimulation. Biphasic voltages (cathode-first) with a pulse width of 25 ms and different amplitudes were used to ex vivo stimulate RGCs of three wild-type (WT) mice using a commercial microelectrode array (MEA) recording system. An algorithm is developed to automatically realize both spike-sorting and electrical response identification for the spike signals recorded. Measured from three WT mouse retinas, the total numbers of RGC units and responsive RGC units were 1193 and 151, respectively. In addition, the optimal pulse amplitude range for electrical stimulation was determined to be 0.43 V-1.3 V. The processing results of the automatic algorithm we proposed shows high consistency with those using traditional manual processing. We anticipate the new algorithm can not only speed up the elaborate electrophysiological data processing, but also optimize pulse parameters for the electrical stimulation strategy of neural prostheses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photovoltaic (PV) power generation is becoming a good solution to meet energy demand. However, centralized PV production sites may pose a threat to industrial land or agricultural land. To solve the energy-environment-land conflict, agrivoltaic coupling energy storage (AVCES) projects become a feasible new land use model. The investment decision of AVCES project is a multi-criteria decision problem (MCDM). Therefore, this paper firstly constructs an evaluation index system containing four criteria: resources, economy, social, environment and ecology. Secondly, the subjective weights of each indicator are determined based on the distributed linguistic trust model and the cloud model, and the objective weights are determined based on the cloud model and the integrated determination of objective criteria weights (IDOCRIW) model. Subjective and objective weights are combined based on game theory. Finally, the TODIM model is used to get the optimal choice among multiple schemes. After the case study, the applicability and stability of the proposed framework are validated, and the research results will provide good reference values for the investment decision of AVCES projects. • Propose an investment framework of agrivoltaic coupling energy storage projects. • An evaluation index system of AVCES projects is constructed. • Combine distributed linguistic trust and cloud model for subjective weights. • IDOCRIW and cloud model are combined to determine objective weights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing carbon emissions efficiency (CEE) is essential for Chinese cities to achieve their dual carbon goals. For cities with higher CEE, it is crucial to comprehensively evaluate their carbon emissions reduction potential (CERP) and develop targeted carbon reduction paths. This study first determined the input, expected output, and non-expected output indicators and used the super-efficiency Slack Based Measure model to calculate the CEE of 336 cities. Secondly, we evaluated the urban development level, structural optimization space, and natural resource endowment using the BWM-CRITIC-TOPSIS method and combined them with CEE to evaluate the CERP. Finally, we used K-means clustering to group cities according to the carbon emissions level and CERP and proposed targeted emission reduction recommendations. The results showed that cities in the northern part of China had lower CEE, while the coastal areas had higher CEE. In the primary indicators of CERP, structural optimization space was the most important, followed by efficiency improvement space. The eastern region has a greater potential for carbon reduction, with an average score of 63.71 points (out of 100 evaluation points) for the 336 cities. The cities could be classified into nine types, with the ninth category being the key focus cities for achieving the 2030 carbon peak goal with high carbon emissions and CERP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), one of the major malignant lethal tumours, is most prevalent in Asian patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Both viral and non‐viral factors contribute to the development of HCC. It is established that viral factors associated with HBV DNA level, HBV genotype, designated gene mutation, HBV DNA integration, HBx protein, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), hepatitis B core‐related antigen (HBcrAg) and HBV RNA are correlated with hepatocarcinogenesis. Before the introduction of antiviral therapy, viral factors once attracted more attention during the development of HCC. With the widespread use of antiviral therapy, predominantly nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs), most patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) have achieved sustained viral control. The role of non‐viral factors, especially modifiable factors, is anticipated to be reinforced in the future. Herein, we reviewed the modifiable non‐viral risk factors of HBV‐related HCC, in the hope of providing substantial evidence for further development of novel precautionary measures for HCC. In addition, the therapeutic interventions for reducing the risk of HCC, like potential conventional pharmaceutical interventions and lifestyle modification are also discussed in this review. Future studies that would explore the specific mechanism of HBV‐related HCC development in patients with satisfactory viral control and related precision treatment are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on a detailed study of the hydrolysis process of tetrabutyl orthotitanate (TBOT), TiO2 nanoclusters were modified inside the pores of SiO2 core-shell particles instead of the outside. The pore size distribution of SiO2 core-shell spheres modified with TiO2 (SiO2@dSiO2@TiO2) was analyzed by Barrett-Joyner-Halenda (BJH) method and density functional theory (DFT) method, respectively. The results of the DFT calculations demonstrate that the TiO2 nanoclusters are always first formed in bulk solution and then enter the pores. By regulating the rate of hydrolysis of TBOT, almost all of the TiO2 nanoclusters are modified into the pores and the structure of the original SiO2 core-shell sphere is hardly affected. The morphology of the particles was characterized by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The crystal phase of TiO2 was measured by XRD. SiO2@dSiO2@TiO2 spheres functionalized with C18 were packed into a stainless steel column. The chemical stability of SiO2@dSiO2@TiO2 spheres under alkaline was tested by flushing of a mobile phase at pH 13 for 7 days. The efficiency of the column after the alkali solution treatment still reaches 98,430 plates m−1, which is only about 1.6% lower than that before the alkali solution treatment. A series of basic and acidic analytes were also separated on the column. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shape of the mesoporous silica particles is rich and colorful. It has long been believed that the macroscopic structure of mesoporous silica particles is formed by continuously building microstructural units and growing them step by step. However, in this work, it is found that the growth process of mesoporous silica particles is not linear but stepped. The mesoporous silica particles grow up by repeating the process of "rapid construction of framework structure first and then slow construction of fine structure". The size of the mesoporous silica particles only grows stepwise when constructing the framework structure, but remains almost unchanged during subsequent fine structure construction. During the growth of the mesoporous silica particles, about one-sixth of the time is used to construct the framework structure, and the rest of the time is spent on the construction of fine structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The silica particles having a dendritic structure (kcc‐1) synthesized by the biphase method are a novel porous material. In this work, the effect of the disturbance state at the oil‐water biphase interface on the reaction was investigated. The experimental results showed that when the oil‐water biphase interface was in an absolute state of quiescence, no silica particles could be obtained regardless of the temperature of 70 °C or 140 °C were used for reaction. However, when there was a disturbance in the oil‐water biphase interface, whether the disturbance was a very slight disturbance caused by convection or a severe disturbance due to agitation, porous silica particles with kcc‐1 structure could be prepared. Based on the above experimental results, we propose that the formation mechanism of kcc‐1 particles mainly includes the following three steps: (1) interface disturbance induces deformation of surfactant molecules to form micelles; (2) deformation of micelles leads to hydrolysis of tetraethyl orthosilicate; (3) the micelles modified with silica form a porous silica particle having a kcc‐1 structure through cooperative interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the mutations of epigenetic genes in peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL) and their relationship to treatment response. The study found that PTCL tumors frequently had mutations in epigenetic modifying genes, with TET2 mutations being the most common. The AITL and nTFHL subtypes had a higher frequency of certain mutations compared to PTCL-NOS. The study also found that patients with DNMT3A mutations had lower response rates and poorer survival. However, the study acknowledges its limitations and calls for further research to confirm these findings. [Extracted from the article]

ZmbZIP25 (Zea mays bZIP (basic leucine zipper) transcription factor 25) is a function-unknown protein that belongs to the D group of the bZIP transcription factor family. RNA-seq data showed that the expression of ZmbZIP25 was tissue-specific in maize silks, and this specificity was confirmed by RT-PCR (reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction). In situ RNA hybridization showed that ZmbZIP25 was expressed exclusively in the xylem of maize silks. A 5' RACE (rapid amplification of cDNA ends) assay identified an adenine residue as the transcription start site of the ZmbZIP25 gene. To characterize this silk-specific promoter, we isolated and analyzed a 2450 bp (from -2083 to +367) and a 2600 bp sequence of ZmbZIP25 (from -2083 to +517, the transcription start site was denoted +1). Stable expression assays in Arabidopsis showed that the expression of the reporter gene GUS driven by the 2450 bp ZmbZIP25 5'-flanking fragment occurred exclusively in the papillae of Arabidopsis stigmas. Furthermore, transient expression assays in maize indicated that GUS and GFP expression driven by the 2450 bp ZmbZIP25 5'-flanking sequences occurred only in maize silks and not in other tissues. However, no GUS or GFP expression was driven by the 2600 bp ZmbZIP25 5'-flanking sequences in either stable or transient expression assays. A series of deletion analyses of the 2450 bp ZmbZIP25 5'-flanking sequence was performed in transgenic Arabidopsis plants, and probable elements prediction analysis revealed the possible presence of negative regulatory elements within the 161 bp region from -1117 to -957 that were responsible for the specificity of the ZmbZIP25 5'-flanking sequence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitidine chloride (NC) has demonstrated promising anticancer activity. However, NC has also shown non-specific toxicity in various healthy organs such as the liver. In this study, we aimed to develop a supramolecular formulation of NC and investigate the associated benefits of such a supramolecular formulation on modulating its inherent hepatotoxicity and anticancer activity. The formation of NC-cucurbit[7]uil (NC@CB[7]) complexes was characterized by 1 H nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry and powder X-ray diffraction analysis. As a consequence of the supramolecular complexation, NC@CB[7] showed significantly lower toxicity (IC 50 : 6.87 ± 0.80 μM) on a liver cell line (LO2), and higher cytotoxicity (IC 50 : 2.94 ± 0.15 μM) on a breast cancer cell line (MCF-7), when compared with the free drug (IC 50 of 3.48 ± 0.49 μM and 7.28 ± 0.36 μM, on these two cell lines, respectively). Investigation of cellular uptakes revealed that CB[7]’s capability in modulating the toxicity/activity of NC was mainly attributed to the drug's different cellular uptake behaviors that were influenced by CB[7]’s complexation. Taken together, we have demonstrated that supramolecular formulation of NC by CB[7] significantly alleviated its hepatotoxicity and improved its anticancer activity in vitro . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Zn-xLi alloy is treated by UHPS technology to improve the mechanical property. • Ultra-high pressure improves the solid dissolution ability of Zn-xLi alloy. • Under the ultra-high pressure, the solid solution line of Zn-Li alloy is offset. Due to the moderate degradation rate and acceptable biocompatibility, zinc and its alloys have become the promising candidates of the biomedical implant materials. Nonetheless, the poor mechanical properties limit their development and applications. Thus, to promote their mechanical properties, the Zn-xLi alloys were treated with ultra-high pressure solid solution (UHPS). The phase content of as-cast (AC) and UHPS Zn-xLi was calculated, and the solid solution line of Zn-xLi under 5 GPa was established according to the lever law. Obviously, the solid solution line was shifted to the left and the solid solution zone expanded. The UHPS samples showed higher solid solubility and compressive yield strength than the AC samples. The optimal strength for Zn-0.3Li and Zn-0.5Li were 537.4 MPa and 568.5 MPa, respectively. The ultra-high pressure solid solution treatment greatly improved the solid solvent of the Zn-Li alloys, and caused a strong solid solution reinforcement, which is the main reason for the high strength of UHPS samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To promote renewable energy consumption and achieve China's low-carbon energy transition, in 2019, China proposed the weight of consumption responsibility (WCR) for renewable energy in each province. This study aims to explore the micro-market behavior of new energy manufacturers in the context of WCR policy. A two-market bidding model for new energy manufacturers is first proposed, and a two-stage compound differential evolutionary game algorithm is proposed for solving the multi-party game problem. By selecting typical electricity demand scenarios, the evolution of new energy manufacturers' strategies in the electricity market and green certificate market as well as under different WCR and different thermal power unit parameters are analyzed. The research results show that when the non-hydropower WCR is relatively low, new energy manufacturers tend to adopt a low-price strategy for generation quotation and a low volume high price strategy for green certificate sales. Other conditions being unchanged, with the increase in non-hydropower WCR, all new energy manufacturers will still adopt a low-price strategy in the electricity market. New energy manufacturers with high installed capacity will increase progressively their certificate quotation. The higher output lower limit for thermal units is not conducive to electricity market bidding by new energy manufacturers. • A two-market bidding model for new energy manufacturers is established. • A two-stage compound differential evolutionary game algorithm for new energy manufacturers is proposed. • The optimal strategy of two-market bidding for new energy manufacturers is empirically analyzed. • The bidding strategies under different consumption responsibility weights are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amidst urbanization and industrialization in China, abandoned farmland plays a crucial role in safeguarding plant diversity within agricultural landscapes. This study aimed to examine the patterns of seasonal variation in plant diversity within abandoned farmland habitats in the Huang–Huai Plain region. Nonparametric tests were employed to analyze plant species diversity and phylogenetic diversity across seasons. Redundancy analysis and linear regression were conducted to examine the associations between plant species composition, species diversity, phylogenetic diversity, and soil environmental factors. Our results showed that plant species diversity, richness, and phylogenetic diversity were highest in spring, followed by summer, and lowest in autumn. The phylogenetic structure of plant communities demonstrated a tendency to diverge in spring, become random in summer, and cluster in autumn. Soil available potassium and soil organic matter emerged as important factors influencing plant species composition. The content of soil organic matter and ammonium nitrogen level exhibited a significantly positive correlation with the species diversity and phylogenetic diversity of plants. This study underscores the significance of considering seasonal and temporal scales when investigating plant diversity and provides a theoretical basis for biodiversity conservation in agricultural landscapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is an analgesic technique. Adding dexmedetomidine can enhance regional anesthesia. This study's aim was to evaluate whether dexmedetomidine prolonged analgesic time of TAP block after gastrectomy.Methods: Patients scheduled for gastrectomy were randomly assigned to receive a TAP block with saline (group S), ropivacaine (group R), or ropivacaine and dexmedetomidine (group RD). Visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) scores, sedation scores, tramadol consumption, ropivacaine concentration, and Quality of Recovery Questionnaire 40 (QoR-40) were recorded.Results: Patients in group R and group RD had lower VAS scores 2, 4, 12, and 24 h after surgery compared with group S (P < 0.05). PONV scores were lower in group R and group RD compared with group S after 2, 12, 24, and 36 h (P < 0.05). Patients in group R and group RD required less tramadol and had better QoR-40 scores than those in group S (P < 0.05). The aforementioned variables and ropivacaine concentrations did not differ between group R and group RD (P > 0.05). Sedation scores were similar between three groups (P > 0.05).Conclusions: TAP block can provide analgesia and improve the quality of recovery. Adding dexmedetomidine does not significantly improve the quality or duration of TAP block. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new 1:1 cocrystals of resveratrol (RES) with 4-aminobenzamide (RES-4ABZ) and isoniazid (RES-ISN) were synthesized by liquid assisted grinding (LAG) and rapid solvent removal (RSR) methods using ethanol as solvent. Their physiochemical properties were characterized using PXRD, DSC, solid state and solution NMR, FT-IR, and HPLC. Pharmaceutically relevant properties, including tabletability, solubility, intrinsic dissolution rate, and hygroscopicity, were evaluated. Temperature-composition phase diagram for RES-ISN cocrystal system was constructed from DSC data. Both cocrystals show higher solubility than resveratrol over a broad range of pH. They are phase stable and non-hygroscopic even under high humidity conditions. Importantly, both cocrystals exhibit improved solubility and tabletability compared with RES, which make them more suitable candidates for tablet formulation development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A pharmaceutically and biologically relevant molecule, pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), was encapsulated inside the cavity of a molecular container, cucurbit[7]uril (CB[7]), in aqueous solution. The CB[7] based “nanocapsule” of vitamin B6 has been investigated for the first time, via 1H NMR and UV-visible spectroscopic titrations (including Job’s plot) and ab initio molecular modeling. The results have demonstrated that vitamin B6 forms stable host-guest complexes within CB[7] in 1 : 1 stoichiometry, with a binding affinity of (4.0±0.5)×103 M−1. Such a nanocapsule could potentially find application in vitamin B6 formulation for the purpose of enhancing the stability, absorption, and delivery of this important vitamin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Facing the problem of energy shortage and the responsibility of carbon reduction, to achieve sustainable regional economic development, renewable energy must be vigorously developed. Technology can not only boost the development of renewable energy but be a new driving force for the economy. However, the development of the economy, technology, and renewable energy are interrelated, and the coupling and coordination among them lack sufficient evaluation and analysis. Therefore, an evaluation index system is constructed for the economy–technology–renewable energy ternary group. The evaluation model is applied to measure the coupling coordination degree, and a geographically weighted regression model is used to analyze the influence of key factors and their spatial differences. 30 provinces in China are used as examples for the study, and the results show that the coupling coordination degree is low in most regions, except for Guangdong, which has been maintained at an extremely coordinated level, and most provinces are in a fluctuating upward trend during the decade. Additionally, the results of the geographically weighted regression report that the influence of factors has spatial heterogeneity. The study provides a basis for relevant policy formulation in China, and the evaluation and analysis ideas can provide a reference for other countries or regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to achieve sustainable development goals, China has further increased its goal of reducing carbon intensity and has made digitalization an important support for sustainable development. However, the impact of digitalization on carbon intensity reduction is still unclear. In this context, this paper first evaluates the digitalization level of 30 provincial regions in China and then constructs a spatial Durbin model for two stages, 2012–2015 and 2016–2019, so as to explore the spatial spillover effects of carbon intensity in different stages and the important roles of digital infrastructure and digital inputs in carbon intensity reduction. The main findings are as follows: (1) the current digitization level of each province in China is widely disparate, with the region showing a high level in the east and a low level in the west; (2) carbon intensity reduction has a significant spatial spillover effect, as shown by a 1% reduction in local carbon intensity and a 0.21% reduction in neighboring regions; and (3) digitalization has a more significant positive impact on the reduction in carbon intensity in stage 2. The research results are strong demonstration that digitalization drives sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. To assess the ability of a multi-biomarker disease activity (MBDA) score to track clinical response in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treated with different TNF inhibitors. Methods. The study included 147 patients who had received adalimumab, etanercept, or infliximab for a year or more, during routine clinical care at the University Hospital of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan. MBDA scores and clinical measures of disease activity were evaluated at baseline and, after 24 weeks ( N = 84) and 52 weeks of treatment. Relationships between the changes (∆) in MBDA score and changes in clinical measures or EULAR response categories were evaluated. Results. The median disease activity was 5.7 by DAS28-ESR and 64 by MBDA score at baseline, and decreased significantly with treatment. ∆MBDA scores over 1 year correlated with ∆DAS28-ESR ( r = 0.48) and ∆DAS28-CRP ( r = 0.46). Linear relationships between ∆MBDA scores and ∆DAS28-ESR or ∆DAS28-CRP were not significantly different between TNF inhibitors. The MBDA scores declined significantly more in good responders (median change: -29) than moderate (-21), and more in moderate than in non-responders (+ 2), by the EULAR criteria. Conclusions. MBDA scores tracked disease activity and treatment response in patients with RA treated with three TNF inhibitors. The relationships between ∆MBDA scores and ∆DAS28-ESR or ∆DAS28-CRP were consistent across the three TNF inhibitor groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional experiments are difficult to accurately and quantitatively measure the interfacial properties of composites, such as interfacial bonding strength, interfacial microelectronic structure, and other information. It is particularly necessary to carry out theoretical research for guiding the interface regulation of Fe/MCs composites. In this research, the first-principles calculation method is used to systematically study the interface bonding work; however, in order to simplify the first-principle calculation of the model, dislocation is not considered in this paper, including interface bonding characteristics and electronic properties of α-Fe- and NaCl-type transition metal carbides (Niobium Carbide (NbC) and Tantalum Carbide (TaC)). The interface energy is related to the bond energy between the interface Fe atoms, C atoms and metal M atoms, and the interface energy Fe/TaC < Fe/NbC. The bonding strength of the composite interface system is accurately measured, and the interface strengthening mechanism is analyzed from the perspectives of atomic bonding and electronic structure, which provides a scientific guiding ideology for regulating the interface structure of composite materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LINKED CONTENT This article is linked to Liu et al and Ding and Dou papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15890 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15975 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploring the relationship between the number of Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei (EHP) in the ambient water and its infecting ability in Exopalaemon carinicauda , we set up 6 EHP-concentration groups of 0, 101, 102, 103, 104, and 105. Subsequently, we compared the differentiation of the number of EHP copies in different tissues, the change in hepatopancreas structure, and the inducible nitric oxide synthase and NO in the haemolymph. Our result showed: the number of EHP copies in each tissue would increase significantly following the increase of EHP concentration in the water. The highest EHP copy numbers were found in hepatopancreas at the same infection condition. Additionally, EHP copy numbers in hepatopancreas were positively correlated with infection time. Furthermore, histopathological results showed the damage to the hepatopancreas had severed with the concentration of EHP increasing. Also, iNOS activity and NO content in the haemolymph of shrimp were affected by the different EHP concentrations. This study revealed significant differences in the infection ability of different concentrations of EHP spores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hydrogen bonds (H-bonds) are employed for the thermal and mechanical property enhancement of epoxy networks; however, the formation and evolution of H-bonds, especially in emerging bio-based furan epoxy, cannot be deeply understood at the atomic level in the traditional experimental method. Herein, molecular dynamic (MD) simulation is employed to clearly investigate the H-bonds, free volume and its distribution, mean square displacement, as well as their further influence on thermomechanical behaviors of selected model epoxy resins. The model epoxy resins composed of 2,5-bis [(2-oxiranylmethoxy)-methyl]-furan (BOF), 1,4-bis [(2-oxiranylmethoxy)-methyl]-benzene (pBOB) and 2.5-bis(2-oxiranylmethoxy)-methyl)-cyclopentadiene (BOC), which were cured by 4,4′-diamino diphenyl methane (DDM), respectively. These three epoxy molecules have very similar structure with the only difference in ring blocks of monomers from furan, benzene to cyclopentadiene. Wherein, BOC is artificially designed to further explore the influence of the oxygen atom of furan rings, with ensuring the consistency with the rotation and planarity of BOF. From contrastive simulation results, BOF-DDM has the highest Young's modulus among all these systems due to the least free volume leading by the maximum H-bonds. However, for DDM crosslinking networks, H-bonds seem to have limited influence on T g of BOF-DDM, and the effect of molecular weight and steric hindrance on T g is more decisive, which is different from the most relevant reports on furan-based epoxy. Our study gives the significant insight of H-bonds behavior of furan rings, and it is expected to effectively guide the design of epoxy resins. • Three epoxy models were constructed. • H-bonds was studied at the atomic level. • The effect of H-bonds on T g and Young's modulus. • H-bonds seem to have limited influence on Tg of BOF. • H-bonds could effectively increase the Young's modulus of BOF by reducing the free volume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrasound assisted extraction (UAE) was applied to enhance the extraction efficacy of protein from brewer's spent grain (BSG). The effects of ultrasonic extraction conditions including power, time and duty cycle on the techno-functional properties of protein were also evaluated. The results demonstrated that in 110 mM sodium hydroxide solution, UAE working at 250 W for 20 min under duty cycle of 60% could significantly improve the protein yield to 86.16% compared with traditional extraction without ultrasound (45.71%). The structural analysis including CD, UV–Vis, SH content results and SDS-PAGE patterns clearly showed that BSG protein was modified under ultrasonication. The extracted BSG protein increased 5.83% of β-sheet content while decreased α-helix, β-turn and random coil contents by 4.76%, 0.33% and 0.74%, respectively. Besides, SDS-PAGE pattern of protein was slightly strengthened. The enhancement in SH content and UV–Vis spectra further indicated that exposure and unfolding of protein structure occurred and thus the functional properties of BSG protein were enhanced. Indeed, fat absorption capacity, emulsifying and foaming properties of BSG protein treated by UAE were all improved except for the water absorption capacity. Thus, UAE could be a promising method to separate protein from this valuable feedstock for further utilization in the food industry. • Ultrasound assisted extraction improved the extraction efficiency of BSG protein. • The structural characteristics of BSG protein were modified after UAE. • The functional properties of BSG protein were enhanced after UAE. • UAE under continuous mode was proven to be unsuitable in BSG protein recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coordinated development of upstream, midstream, and downstream of wind power industry chain is the key to solve the problem of wind power consumption. Therefore, this paper firstly constructs the performance evaluation index system of the upstream, midstream, and downstream of the wind power industry chain, and evaluates the performance of the upstream, midstream, and downstream of the wind power industry based on entropy weight-TOPSIS. Secondly, the coupling coordination degree (CCD) model between subsystems of wind power industry chain is established to dynamically evaluate the CCD between upstream and midstream, midstream and downstream, and among three subsystems of wind power industry chain. Finally, taking the development data of China's wind power industry from 2010 to 2019 as an example, the coupling coordination degree between subsystems is empirically studied. The results show that: the overall performance of wind power industry chain has a tortuous upward trend; the coupling degree (CD) of each subsystem is better than that of 2011 and 2012; The CCD of upstream and midstream of wind power industry chain fluctuates more than that of midstream and downstream and that of three subsystems. • The performance evaluation index of the upstream, midstream and downstream of the wind power industry chain is established. • Entropy weight-TOPSIS method is used to evaluate the performance of wind power industry chain. • The coupling coordination degree model between subsystems of wind power industry chain is established. • The coupling coordination degrees between subsystems of wind power industry chain are dynamically evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Silica-graphene composites were prepared in one step. • Graphene and silica are simultaneously formed and overlapped to form intercalation composites. • Ordinary organic solvents are used as carbon sources. • The preparation process does not need to use graphite as a carbon source. Silica intercalated graphene-silica composites (G/SiO 2) were prepared by one-step hydrothermal method. In the previously reported one-step method for synthesizing G/SiO 2 composites (eg. Bull. Mater. Sci., 37 (2014), 589–595; Applied Surface Science 259 (2012), 566–573), graphene needs to be synthesized first and then used to prepare G/SiO 2 composites. In this work, neither the preparation of graphene nor the use of graphite as a carbon source is required for the preparation of G/SiO 2 composites. Instead, organic solvent (such as toluene, xylene, mesitylene, n-hexane, n-heptane, and cyclohexane) was directly used as the carbon source, and the growth and recombination of graphene and SiO 2 were achieved simultaneously through a one-step hydrothermal method. In a hydrothermal reaction vessel, the mixture consisting of organic solvent, TEOS, H 2 O, and surfactant was uniformly stirred, and then reacted at 160 °C for 4 h to prepare G/SiO 2 composite. The influence of the type of organic solvent, hydrothermal reaction temperature, and calcination temperature on the structure of G/SiO 2 composites were studied. The morphology and structure of G/SiO 2 composites were characterized by FESEM, TEM, and Raman. The formation mechanism of G/SiO 2 composite was proposed. G/SiO 2 composite was then grown directly on the SiO 2 spheres and used as stationary phase for high performance liquid chromatograph separation. Mixture of hydrocarbons was well separated under reversed phase condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• MOF@COF structure through animated interface-induced Schiff-base polymerization. • Biometabolic MOF@COF hybrid material exhibits multi-enzyme activity. • The unite of ferroptosis, macrophage polarization and T cells maturation. • Ferroptosis-mediated cyclic auto-enhanced immunotherapy. Ferroptosis, a regulated cell death pathway, presents a compelling approach for augmenting anti-tumor immunity, addressing challenges associated with immune escape and inadequate immunogenicity linked to apoptosis resistance. In this study, we introduce a biometabolic MOF@COF nanovaccine (NMCAH) designed to evoke self-amplifying anti-tumor responses through ferroptosis-mediated immune stimulation. The nanovaccine demonstrates the capacity to induce the generation of reactive oxygen species and deplete glutathione within tumors, initiating immunogenic ferroptosis. Simultaneously, it facilitates the polarization of macrophages toward the M1 phenotype and the maturation of CD8+ T cells. Upon priming, these immune cells autonomously amplify the response in a self-reinforcing manner. Notably, IFN-γ secretion by CD8+ T cells reinforces macrophage polarization and induces secondary ferroptosis via ACSL4 up-regulation. This intricately coordinated interplay between ferroptosis and adaptive immunity holds significant promise in overcoming the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Our study establishes a versatile nanotherapeutic platform for advancing cancer immunotherapy by leveraging the immunogenic characteristics of regulated cell death. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an essential transition-metal ion in organism, zinc ion (Zn2+) plays a significant role in cellular metabolism, apoptosis and neurotransmission. Herein, we reported a new intramolecular charge transfer-based two-photon probe, (E)-1-(6-(4-(2-(2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethoxy)eth-oxy)-3,5-dimethylstyryl)quinolin-2-yl)-N,N-bis(pyridin-2-ylmethyl)methanamine (TEO-MPVQ), for ratiometric imaging and biosensing of Zn2+ in living cells and larval zebrafish. The maximum two-photon absorption cross-section values (δ max) of the developed probe increased from 115 ± 16 GM to 188 ± 27 GM, after the probe was chelated with Zn2+. The emission spectrum of TEO-MPVQ probe increased and red-shifted about 60 nm, resulting in the ratiometric determination of Zn2+ with high sensitivity and selectivity. The present fluorescent probe also demonstrated good biocompatibility, high spatial resolution and deep penetration depth for Zn2+ detection. Accordingly, TEO-MPVQ was able to track the endogenous Zn2+ release in neurons and also successfully applied for larval zebrafish imaging. By using of this effective probe, it was found that the endogenous Zn2+ was rapidly released from metallothionein under the stimulation of NO in neurons. • The developed two-photon ratiometric fluorescent probe offer lower background fluorescence with high sensitivity and accuracy. • TEO-MPVQ probe has demonstrated large two-photon cross section and excellent two-photon performance. • The quick response of TEO-MPVQ probe toward Zn2+ make it possible for tracking the dynamic changes in labile Zn2+. • TEO-MPVQ probe can be used to monitor the changes of Zn2+ in zebrafish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sinapic acid (Sa) is a small-molecule phenolic acid compound predominant in fruits, vegetables, and grains. This study investigated the antitumor effects of cisplatin (DDP) combined with Sa (Sa/DDP) on the hepatic cancer cells (HCC), HepG2 and SMMC-7721. The HepG2 and SMMC-7721 cells were treated with Sa or Sa/DDP, and the cell proliferation and cell cycle were detected using the MTT assay. The cell migration was detected using the transwell and scratch assays, while apoptosis and autophagy were detected using Hoechst, MDC, and Annexin V-FITC/PI staining. The protein expression was quantitated using the western blot. Sa/DDP was found to not only inhibit cancer cell proliferation and migration but also induce cell apoptosis. Simultaneously, the Sa/DDP combination was found to activate autophagy, and the HCQ autophagy inhibitor enhanced the apoptosis in the Sa/DDP-induced liver cancer cells. The combined use of Sa and DDP makes it an attractive adjuvant therapy strategy for tumors, establishing the prospect of phenolic acid compounds for the adjuvant treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A mitochondria-targeted nanodrug, camouflaged by cancer cell membrane (CM), was designed to realize cascade target and enhanced immune response and further achieve the synergistic therapy of photodynamic therapy, CO gas therapy and immunotherapy. With the assistance of CM, the nanodrug exhibited significant enhancement on homologous targeting. After endocytosis, UCFT@CM would accumulate in mitochondria and realize enhanced PDT and generation of CO in situ, further leading to serious mitochondrial oxidative stress and amplified immunotherapy. [Display omitted] • Cell membrane and TPP endow nanodrugs cascade targeting ability. • Synergistic therapy of PDT, CO gas therapy and immunotherapy. • Targeted mitochondrial destruction for amplified immune response. • TFAM as a new target for immunotherapy. As the most promising strategy for cancer treatment, immunotherapy has attracted much attention, but its treatment effect is still blocked by the deficient immune response efficiency. In light of the significant role of mitochondria in cell metabolism, it has been considered to be a promising target to amplify immune response. In this report, a mitochondria-targeted nanodrug (UCNP@COF@FeCO/TPP@CM, UCFT@CM), camouflaged by cancer cell membrane (CM), was designed to realize cascade target and enhance immune response, further achieving the synergistic therapy of photodynamic therapy (PDT), CO gas therapy and immunotherapy. With the assistance of CM, the nanodrug exhibited significant enhancement on homologous targeting. After endocytosis, UCFT@CM would accumulate in mitochondria and realize controlled release of CO and enhanced PDT relying on the characteristics of mitochondria, further leading to serious mitochondrial oxidative stress and amplified immunotherapy. In addition, we verified that a new immune signal related to mitochondrial oxidative stress, mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM), is strongly associated with immunogenic cell death (ICD). Taken together, the sequenced targeting treatment makes full use of characteristics of mitochondria and provides a new approach for precisely targeting organelle to enhance the immune response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the optimal duration of applying a venous foot pump (VFP) in the prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE) following hip and knee arthroplasty. Methods: A total of 230 patients undergoing hip and knee arthroplasty between March 2021 and March 2022 in orthopaedic departments of four major teaching hospitals were prospectively enrolled. Patients were randomly divided into five groups based on the duration of the VFP application. Postoperative deep vein thromboses (DVT), including proximal, distal, and intermuscular DVT, were recorded for analysis. Postoperative blood coagulation examinations, such as D-dimer and active partial thromboplastin time (APTT), pain outcome, and degree of comfort were also collected. Results: Two of the 230 patients withdrew due to early discharge from the hospital, and 228 patients were included in the final analysis. The mean age was 60.38 ± 13.33 years. The baseline characteristics were comparable among the five groups. Compared with the other groups, patients treated with 6-hour VFP had the lowest incidence of DVT (8.7%, 4/46), followed by those treated with 1-hour VFP (15.2%, 7/46), 12-hour VFP (15.6%, 7/45), 18-hour VFP(17.8%, 8/45) and 20-hour VFP(21.7%, 10/46), but with no significant difference (P = 0.539). Regarding postoperative blood coagulation examinations, patients treated with 6-hour VFP had the lowest D-dimer (P = 0.658) and the highest APTT (P = 0.262) compared with the other four groups. 6-hour VFP also had the lowest pain score (P = 0.206) and the highest comfort score (P = 0.288) compared with the other four groups. Conclusions: Six hours may be the optimal duration of applying VFP for the prevention of VTE in patients undergoing hip and knee arthroplasty in terms of VTE incidence, postoperative blood coagulation examinations, pain outcomes, and comfort scores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Serum hepatitis B virus (HBV) RNA is a novel biomarker for evaluating treatment response. Detailed information regarding serum HBV RNA kinetics during treatment with nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs) is limited. Aims: To ascertain serum HBV RNA kinetics during long‐term NA treatment and identify associated factors. Methods: We enrolled 76 HBeAg‐positive chronic hepatitis B patients receiving NA from randomised controlled trials. Laboratory assays were undertaken every 3 months. Factors associated with serum HBV RNA kinetics were identified by generalised estimating equations. Results: Baseline serum HBV RNA was 8.5 ± 1.0 log10 copies/mL. Decline in serum HBV RNA during NA therapy was biphasic: the first phase (HBV DNA detectable) had a fast decrease (median slope, −0.207 log10 copies/mL/month) and was followed by a second phase (HBV DNA undetectable) with slow decrease (median slope, −0.071 log10 copies/mL/month). In the first phase, factors independently associated with lower initial serum HBV RNA were male sex (OR, 0.685, P = 0.044), low baseline HBsAg (OR, 0.525, P = 0.001) and rapid virological response (RVR) (OR, 0.624, P = 0.031). In the second phase, only RVR was independently associated with serum HBV RNA kinetics, including its lower initial level (OR, 0.694, P = 0.043) and greater decline (OR, 0.966, P = 0.002). Based on viral dynamics, time needed to achieve undetectable serum HBV RNA from baseline was 43.56 (IQR: 29.49‐66.40) months. Conclusion: RVR was a significant determinant for biphasic decline in serum HBV RNA during NA treatment, which significantly influenced the treatment duration required to achieve undetectable serum HBV RNA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor therapeutic class has shown significant clinical benefit in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We sought to gain insight into the mode of action and immunological effects of filgotinib, a JAK1 selective inhibitor, in active RA by analyzing secreted and cell-based biomarkers key to RA pathophysiology in two phase 2b trials of filgotinib in active RA. Methods: Immune cell subsets and 34 serum biomarkers were analyzed longitudinally over 12 weeks using blood samples collected from patients with active RA receiving filgotinib (100 or 200 mg once daily) or placebo (PBO) in the two phase 2b trials (DARWIN 1, on a background of methotrexate, and DARWIN 2, as monotherapy). Results: Consistently across both studies, filgotinib treatment decreased multiple immune response biomarkers that have key roles in RA for immune response, and decreased markers that promote matrix degradation, angiogenesis, leukocyte adhesion, and recruitment. Filgotinib did not significantly modulate T and natural killer (NK) lymphoid subsets, but slightly increased B cell numbers after 12 weeks. Multiple correlations were observed for changes in biomarkers with disease activity score 28-CRP. MIP1β showed modest predictivity at baseline for ACR50 response at 12 weeks in the 100 mg filgotinib dose across both studies (AUROC, 0.65 and 0.67, p < 0.05). Conclusions: Filgotinib regulates biomarkers from multiple pathways, indicative of direct and indirect network effects on the immune system and the stromal response. These effects were not associated with reductions of major circulating lymphoid populations. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01888874, NCT01894516. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Motivation During development of the mammalian embryo, histone modification H3K4me3 plays an important role in regulating gene expression and exhibits extensive reprograming on the parental genomes. In addition to these dramatic epigenetic changes, certain unchanging regulatory elements are also essential for embryonic development. Results Using large-scale H3K4me3 chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing data, we identified a form of H3K4me3 that was present during all eight stages of the mouse embryo before implantation. This 'stable H3K4me3' was highly accessible and much longer than normal H3K4me3. Moreover, most of the stable H3K4me3 was in the promoter region and was enriched in higher chromatin architecture. Using in-depth analysis, we demonstrated that stable H3K4me3 was related to higher gene expression levels and transcriptional initiation during embryonic development. Furthermore, stable H3K4me3 was much more active in blood tumor cells than in normal blood cells, suggesting a potential mechanism of cancer progression. Supplementary information Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]