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Objective Methods and Results Conclusions Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by a dense T‐cell infiltration and the degeneration of basal keratinocytes. The potential functions of mucosal associated invariant T (MAIT) cells in OLP have been analyzed in our previous study. Keratinocytes under proinflammatory conditions have been demonstrated to activate T cells. This study was aimed to investigate how keratinocytes stimulate MAIT cells in OLP, and to explore the role of activated MAIT cells on keratinocytes.Increased MAIT cells and higher activation marker CD69 were detected in OLP lesions by flow cytometry. The enhanced expression of MHC class I‐like molecule (MR1) required for MAIT cell activation in the epithelial layer of OLP lesions was determined by immunohistochemistry. Keratinocytes treated by 5‐A‐RU prodrug and lipopolysaccharide, respectively, exhibited higher expression of MR1 and secretion of IL‐18. In direct coculture systems consisting of keratinocytes and peripheral blood mononuclear cells, both 5‐A‐RU prodrug‐pretreated keratinocytes and lipopolysaccharide‐pretreated keratinocytes activated MAIT cells to secrete granzyme B, contributing to elevated keratinocyte apoptosis.Keratinocytes were capable to activate MAIT cells via MR1 and cytokines in OLP, and granzyme B produced by activated MAIT cells intensified keratinocyte apoptosis, engaging in the pathogenesis of OLP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, self‐derivation and surface reconstruction strategies are innovatively introduced into the synthetic route of the metal complex‐derived catalysts. The in situ grown nanorod arrays of Ni‐based complex are prepared by a simple self‐derivation and rapid ligand chelation reaction. Furthermore, highly active heterogeneous electrocatalysts are developed by mild‐temperature calcination. Attributed to the maintained morphology and highly dispersed Ni/Ni(OH)2 heterojunction active sites, the as‐prepared electrode exhibits superior hydrogen evolution activity (38.4 mV–10 mA cm−2). In particular, the dynamic reconstruction during oxygen evolution through in situ Fourier transform infrared and in situ Raman spectroscopies are observed. The reconstructed Ni(OH)2/NiOOH by activation gives the electrode higher oxygen evolution performance (369 mV–200 mA cm−2). Further density functional theory mechanism studies disclose that Ni/Ni(OH)2 contributes to the adsorption of H* in hydrogen evolution and the activated Ni(OH)2/NiOOH optimizes the formation of intermediates in oxygen evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drugs and their metabolites have become new types of pollutants, the presence of which constitutes a serious environmental problem. This article applies the established LC–MS/MS method to investigate the removal efficiency of different ratios of Fenton reagents for common drugs in wastewater. The results showed that the linearity of the 10 common drugs was good in the dynamic range of 1–100 ng/L, and the R2>0.99. The LODs and LOQs ranged from 0.01–0.443 ng/L and 0.04–1.44 ng/L, respectively. The average relative recoveries ranged from 72.99–117 %. In addition, considering the economic and application effects of chemical reagents, the optimal test dose of H2O2 in Fenton reagent was determined to be 12.5 mL. This experiment provides a simple, rapid and low‐cost LC–MS/MS method for the detection of drugs in wastewater. It also provides data reference for effective management of drug production sites and domestic wastewater pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infrared transmitting materials (IRTMs) are prone to mechanical and corrosion damage during long‐time exposure to harsh outside environments. However, conventional IRTMs frequently lack self‐repairability that limit their lifespan. To address the limitation, thioctic acid‐based epoxy resins (TAEs) are developed from natural thioctic acid and commercial epoxy monomers. The double ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) reactions of thioctic acid and epoxy groups result in dual dynamic covalent bonds with varying bond energies containing relatively weak disulfide bonds and strong ester bonds. As compared with conventional covalent adaptable networks (CANs) that present rapid creep properties when heated, TAEs maintain their geometric stability during rapid self‐repairing at a mild temperature of 80 °C by enhancing network integrity through stable ester crosslinking points. The feature renders TAEs self‐repairing capability while maintaining precise geometrical dimensions, which is suitable for infrared transmitting devices. On the other hand, TAEs exhibit high near‐infrared transmittance (>80%). Therefore, TAEs with self‐repairability and high infrared transmittance demonstrate they can be used as superior polymeric IRTM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Methods Results Conclusion Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a common T cell‐mediated oral mucosal immune inflammatory disease. Intraepithelial lymphocytes (IELs) are a unique subset of T cells that play an important role in regulating immune response. This study aims to investigate the phenotype and the differentiation mechanism of IELs in OLP.The expression of CD4, CD8α, CD8β, T‐helper‐inducing POZ/Krueppel‐like factor (ThPOK), and RUNX family transcription factor 3 (Runx3) in the epithelium and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of OLP was determined by immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry. Then, the correlations among them were analyzed. Naïve CD4+ T cells were sorted from blood of OLP patients and stimulated with retinoic acid (RA) and transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1). Then the expression of CD4, CD8α, CD8β, ThPOK, and Runx3 was investigated by immunocytochemistry.CD8α expression and CD8αα+ cells were upregulated in the epithelium of OLP, whereas they were downregulated in PBMCs of OLP. CD8β was not expressed in the epithelium of OLP. CD4, CD8α, and Runx3 expression and CD4+CD8α+ cells were increased, whereas ThPOK expression was decreased in the epithelium of OLP. CD8α expression was positively correlated with Runx3 expression, whereas ThPOK expression was negatively correlated with Runx3 expression. After RA and TGF‐β1 stimulation, CD8α and Runx3 expression was upregulated, and ThPOK expression was downregulated in naïve CD4+ T cells.CD4+CD8αα+ IELs may be the dominant phenotype of IELs in OLP, and the differentiation of CD4+CD8αα+ IELs in OLP is negatively regulated by ThPOK and positively regulated by Runx3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to identify factors that affect lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI) in endometrial cancer (EC) using machine learning technology, and to build a clinical risk assessment model based on these factors. Samples were collected from May 2017 to March 2022, including 312 EC patients who received treatment at Xuzhou Medical University Affiliated Hospital of Lianyungang. Of these, 219 cases were collected for the training group and 93 for the validation group. Clinical data and laboratory indicators were analyzed. Logistic regression and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression were used to analyze risk factors and construct risk models. The LVSI and non-LVSI groups showed statistical significance in clinical data and laboratory indicators (P < 0.05). Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified independent risk factors for LVSI in EC, which were myometrial infiltration depth, cervical stromal invasion, lymphocyte count (LYM), monocyte count (MONO), albumin (ALB), and fibrinogen (FIB) (P < 0.05). LASSO regression identified 19 key feature factors for model construction. In the training and validation groups, the risk scores for the logistic and LASSO models were significantly higher in the LVSI group compared with that in the non-LVSI group (P < 0.001). The model was built based on machine learning and can effectively predict LVSI in EC and enhance preoperative decision-making. The reliability of the model was demonstrated by the significant difference in risk scores between LVSI and non-LVSI patients in both the training and validation groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This article is mainly concentrated on the predefined‐time adaptive fuzzy control of stochastic nonlinear systems. To handle nonlinear functions that are uncertain, fuzzy logic systems (FLSs) are used to approximate them. Compared with the existing studies, a Lyapunov‐type criterion for practically predefined‐time stochastic stabilization (PPSS) is put forward to guarantee the stabilization of the system. The stabilization time is merely dependent on one design parameter, which means the parameter can be adjusted to set the stability time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a T cell–mediated immune mucosal disease of unknown pathogenesis. Whether mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma translocation protein 1 (MALT1), an intracellular signaling protein, is involved in the T-cell immune dysfunction of OLP remains elusive. MALT1 expression in local and peripheral T cells of OLP and controls was analyzed using immunohistochemistry, multiplex immunohistochemistry, and flow cytometry. The expression of MALT1 in activated Jurkat T cells incubated with either OLP plasma or interleukin (IL)-7/IL-15 was determined by flow cytometry. The effects of MALT1 and mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) on T-cell immunity were investigated through western blot, CCK8 assay, and flow cytometry. The expression of MALT1 protein was elevated in local OLP T cells and mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells, while reduced in peripheral OLP T cells, MAIT cells, and follicular helper-like MAIT (MAITfh) cells. Stimulation with OLP plasma and IL-7/ IL-15 had no effect on MALT1 expression in activated Jurkat T cells. MALT1 protease-specific inhibitor (MI-2) induced mTOR phosphorylation, increased B-cell lymphoma 10 (BCL10) expression, inhibited T-cell proliferation, and promoted T-cell apoptosis. The combination of MI-2 and rapamycin increased MALT1 expression, further suppressed T-cell proliferation, and facilitated T-cell apoptosis. MALT1 expression is aberrant in both local lesions and peripheral blood of OLP. Inhibition of the mTOR pathway further enhances the suppression of T-cell proliferation and the promotion of apoptosis induced by the MALT1 inhibitor MI-2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Accurate preoperative prediction of microvascular invasion (MVI) and recurrence‐free survival (RFS) is vital for personalised hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) management. We developed a multitask deep learning model to predict MVI and RFS using preoperative MRI scans. Methods: Utilising a retrospective dataset of 725 HCC patients from seven institutions, we developed and validated a multitask deep learning model focused on predicting MVI and RFS. The model employs a transformer architecture to extract critical features from preoperative MRI scans. It was trained on a set of 234 patients and internally validated on a set of 58 patients. External validation was performed using three independent sets (n = 212, 111, 110). Results: The multitask deep learning model yielded high MVI prediction accuracy, with AUC values of 0.918 for the training set and 0.800 for the internal test set. In external test sets, AUC values were 0.837, 0.815 and 0.800. Radiologists' sensitivity and inter‐rater agreement for MVI prediction improved significantly when integrated with the model. For RFS, the model achieved C‐index values of 0.763 in the training set and ranged between 0.628 and 0.728 in external test sets. Notably, PA‐TACE improved RFS only in patients predicted to have high MVI risk and low survival scores (p <.001). Conclusions: Our deep learning model allows accurate MVI and survival prediction in HCC patients. Prospective studies are warranted to assess the clinical utility of this model in guiding personalised treatment in conjunction with clinical criteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of the vent burst pressure (P v) on the vented explosion of hydrogen-methane-air mixtures are investigated in a cylindrical vessel connected with a duct. The results demonstrate that P v significantly affects the flame behaviors and overpressure inside and outside the venting configuration. The flame front velocity at the vent increases with P v. Two pressure peaks, P a c , caused by the acoustically enhanced combustion, and P s e , caused by the secondary explosion, dominate within the vessel at P v ＜ 132 kPa and P v ≥ 132 kPa, respectively. The maximum overpressure (P max) inside the duct increases with P v. The maximum pressure rise (d P / d t) of the duct is always higher than that of the vessel. As P v increases, increased turbulence of unburned gases within the duct results in higher d P / d t. Exit flame speed increases with P v. When P v ≥ 153 kPa, "Mach disk" appears outside the relief duct. Three pressure peaks, P a , P b , and P e x t , due to vent failure, the secondary explosion, and the external explosion, respectively, occur in the external pressure curve. P b dominates outside the configuration except for P v = 153 kPa. • Initial flame velocity in the duct increased with P v. • P v was positively correlated with P max inside the duct. • "Mach disk" appeared only when P v ≥ 153 kPa. • Both P a and P e x t increased with the increase of P v. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As sessile organisms, plants must respond constantly to ever-changing environments to complete their life cycle; this includes the transition from vegetative growth to reproductive development. This process is mediated by photoperiodic response to sensing the length of night or day through circadian regulation of light-signaling molecules, such as phytochromes, to measure the length of night to initiate flowering. Flowering time is the most important trait to optimize crop performance in adaptive regions. In this review, we focus on interplays between circadian and light signaling pathways that allow plants to optimize timing for flowering and seed production in Arabidopsis, rice, soybean, and cotton. Many crops are polyploids and domesticated under natural selection and breeding. In response to adaptation and polyploidization, circadian and flowering pathway genes are epigenetically reprogrammed. Understanding the genetic and epigenetic bases for photoperiodic flowering will help improve crop yield and resilience in response to climate change. A review synthesizes interplays between photoperiodism and circadian regulation of the vegetative to reproductive transition in Arabidopsis and crops in responses to changing day lengths that ensures optimal timing for flowering and seed production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blindness is a globally critical challenge for public health, affecting more than 43 million individuals worldwide. Retinal degenerative diseases including retinitis pigmentosa and age‐related macular degeneration, involving degeneration of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and thereby the dysfunction of retina, are primary causes of blindness. For treating these retinal degeneration diseases, emerging interfacial materials and implants that can adapt to nerve tissues and stimulate residual neurons within the visual pathway have shown particular promise, where some issued products are approved for commercialization. Given the attractive opportunities and challenges of the interfacial materials and implants for visual restoration, a comprehensive and state‐of‐the‐art review that provides insight into their design principle and biological performances will be urgently required yet missing. In this review, the latest progress of these adaptive interfacial materials and implants for visual restoration will be summarized, and their challenges and opportunities for clinical use will be further discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molecular dynamics simulations are performed to investigate the structural response of titania silicate glass to temperature. The coefficient of thermal expansion is computed for two titania silicate glasses with 0 and 10 mol% titania content, the structures of which are presented in terms of radial and angular distributions. Revealed by the different changing rates of intertetrahedra bond angles and bond lengths with respect to the Ti and Si atoms, the glass structures tend to exhibit a nonvectorized expansion process at elevated temperatures, leading to inconsistent expansion rates of the structures in different scales. While the average length of TiO and Si‐O bonds both increases with temperature, the decrease in the coefficient of thermal expansion by the addition of Ti atoms is associated with the different expansion rate of tetrahedra. Arising from the gradual decrease in atomic overlapping, decrease in free volume inside the glass with temperature is also identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Suction blister epidermal grafting (SBEG) is currently one of the most prevalent surgical methods for stable vitiligo. Objective: To investigate the long-term outcomes of vitiligo patients who underwent SBEG and to explore risk factors associated with postoperative relapse. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted in patients who underwent SBEG in our department between January 2016 and December 2022. Treatment outcomes, including repigmentation rate, adverse events, and postoperative relapse, were surveyed via telephone interview or out-=patient visit. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to assess the potential risk factors for postoperative relapse. Statistical significance was assumed at P <.05. Results: A total of 253 patients were included with a repigmentation rate of 96% (243/253) after grafting. Common adverse events included cobblestone-like appearance (73.1%, 185/253) in the donor site, perigraft halo (46.2%, 117/253), and cobblestone-like appearance (26.1%, 66/253) in the recipient site. Postoperative relapse occurred in 20.1% of patients over a mean time of 29.7 months after grafting. Nonsegmental type of vitiligo and coexistence of autoimmune diseases were risk factors for postoperative relapse. Conclusion: SBEG is an effective surgical treatment for vitiligo with high repigmentation rate and good safety profile. Nonsegmental vitiligo and comorbid autoimmune diseases may increase the risk of postoperative relapse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between acne vulgaris and oxidative stress biomarkers lacks a clear consensus. This study aimed to explore the potential correlation between acne vulgaris and circulating oxidative stress biomarkers (superoxide dismutase [SOD], malondialdehyde [MDA], and total antioxidant capacity [TAC]). We searched the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases for articles published before June 26, 2023. The literature search combined free words and the medical subject headings terms related to acne vulgaris, SOD, MDA, and TAC. Data were analyzed using Stata 15 software. Additionally, we conducted a subgroup analysis stratified by the severity of acne vulgaris. A total of 14 trials involving 1191 participants were included. Overall results revealed that acne vulgaris was associated with MDA concentrations (SMD = 1.73; 95% CI 1.05, 2.4; P < 0.001). Subgroup analyses indicated that the severity of acne vulgaris was correlated with levels of circulating biomarkers of oxidative stress. TAC concentrations were significantly lower in patients with moderate acne vulgaris compared to controls (SMD = − 1.37; 95% CI = − 2.15, − 0.58, P = 0.001). SOD concentrations were significantly lower (SMD = − 2.92; 95% CI = − 5.39, − 0.46, P = 0.02) and MDA concentrations were significantly higher (SMD = 2.26; 95% CI = 0.95, 3.57, P = 0.001) in patients with severe acne vulgaris compared to controls. Our results implied that oxidative stress may exist in acne vulgaris. Furthermore, the severity of acne vulgaris was also correlated with oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary Sjogren's syndrome (pSS) is an autoimmune disease of the exocrine glands with no specific or efficient treatments. Melatonin, a natural hormone, is revealed to show multiple biological functions, both receptor-dependent and independent effects, including anti-apoptotic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. However, the potential mechanism by which melatonin protects salivary glands (SGs) of pSS from damage needs to be clarified. The purpose of current study was to explore the role and receptor-related mechanisms of melatonin in pSS-induced glandular damage. NOD/Ltj mice were used to spontaneously mimic pSS-induced glandular hypofunction in vivo and primary human salivary gland epithelial (HSGE) cells were stimulated by interferon-γ (IFN-γ) to mimic pSS-induced inflammation in SGs cells in vitro. Melatonin-treated mice exhibited a significant reduction in SG injury of NOD/Ltj mice, which was accompanied by an increase in salivary flow rate, a decrease in inflammatory infiltration within the gland, and a suppression of oxidative stress indicators as well as cell apoptosis. Notably, both melatonin membrane receptors and nuclear receptors played an important role in the anti-apoptotic effects of melatonin on the SGs of NOD/Ltj mice. Furthermore, melatonin blocked the IL-6/STAT3 pathway through receptor-dependent manners in IFN-γ-stimulated HSGE cells. However, it was evident that the anti-oxidative and anti-apoptotic properties of melatonin on IFN-γ-stimulated HSGE cells were diminished by IL-6 treatment. Melatonin had the potential to mitigate inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in SGs of pSS by inhibiting the IL-6/STAT3 pathway through receptor-dependent mechanisms. This intervention effectively prevented glandular damage and preserved functional integrity. [Display omitted] • Melatonin improved SG function and alleviated lymphocytic infiltration of SG in NOD mice. • Melatonin regulated expression and distribution of AQP5 in SGs of NOD mice, which might be the results of reduced cytokines. • Melatonin exerted protective effects on SGs of NOD mice by inhibiting IL-6/STAT3 pathway through receptor-dependent manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study used DC magnetron sputtering technology to fabricate Sm-Fe films and systematically investigated the phase transition behavior of Sm-Fe films with different Fe ratios. It was found that at higher Fe content, the films consisted of Sm2Fe17 or SmFe7 phases; as Fe content decreased, the films were mainly composed of SmFe3 or SmFe2 phases; at higher Sm content, the films primarily consisted of Sm phase. Sm is prone to volatilization at high temperatures, so Ta was used as a capping layer to effectively suppress Sm volatilization, successfully synthesizing pure SmFe2 phase films at a nearly 1:2 ratio. The magnetic properties and magnetostrictive behavior of the SmFe2 films were investigated, revealing that pure-phase SmFe2 films exhibit good perpendicular magnetic anisotropy and magnetostriction properties. The larger stress along the perpendicular-to-film direction, resulting from the absence of substrate-induced constraints, contributes to the excellent perpendicular magnetic anisotropy of the films. This study successfully synthesized pure-phase SmFe2 films and discovered a new method for fabricating perpendicularly anisotropic films. The research findings are of great significance for the efficient synthesis of desired films with high phase formation temperatures containing volatile elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pursuit of high energy densities propels the design of next‐generation nickel‐based layered oxide cathodes. The utilization of low‐cobalt, ultrahigh‐nickel layered oxide cathodes, and the extension of operating voltages promise enhanced energy density. However, stability and safety face challenges associated with nickel content, including structural degradation, lattice oxygen evolution, and thermal instability. In this study, a promising strategy of Al and Nb dual‐bulk‐doping is presented in high‐Ni cathode materials of LiNi0.96Co0.04O2 (NC) to stabilize the bulk structure, suppress oxygen release, and attain superior electrochemical performance at high voltages. The introduction of Al and Nb effectively raises the migration energy of Ni2+ into Li sites and stabilizes lattice oxygen through strengthened Al─O and Nb─O bonds. Furthermore, the substitution of high‐valence Nb ions reduces the charge depletion of lattice oxygen and induces an ordered microstructure. The Al and Nb dual‐bulk‐doping strategy mitigates strain and stress associated with the H2↔H3 phase transition, reducing the generation and propagation of microcracks. The resulting Li(Ni0.96Co0.04)0.985Al0.01Nb0.005O2 (NCAN) cathode exhibits superior cycling stability, with a capacity retention of 77.8% after 300 cycles, even when operating at a high‐voltage of 4.4 V, outperforming the NC (48.5%). This work provides a promising perspective for developing high‐voltage and high‐Ni cathode materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper studies the control problem of an uncertain nonlinear system with tracking error constraint, unknown nonlinear functions and unknown control input gains. An asymmetric barrier Lyapunov function composed with predefined time prescribed performance function is constructed to ensure tracking error enters into the predefined asymmetric constraint in a given time. Then radial basis function neural network is adopted to approximate unknown functions. To reduce computation load, minimal-learning parameter technique is applied. Meanwhile, adaptive method is used to solve actuator faults and the unknown control input gains. Moreover, an adaptive neural control strategy is designed in the framework of backstepping method. An adaptive fixed time filter is developed for avoiding the "explosion of complexity" problem, where the convergence speed of the filter error is improved compared with fixed time filter. It is proved that all signals of the closed-loop system are bounded and tracking error is kept in its constraint boundary. At the end, compared numerical simulations and application simulation of a hypersonic vehicle are demonstrated to verify the efficiency of the designed control scheme. • A composed performance function is designed to ensure the tracking error enters into the constraint in a given time. • An adaptive fixed time filter is developed to solve the 'explosion of complexity' problem. • Based on minimal-learning parameter method, neural networks estimate unknown functions, which reduce computation load. • Compared simulation and application simulation of a hypersonic vehicle are given to test the efficiency of the controller. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotic resistance, along with its dynamics in different environments, has attracted increasing attention because of the potential for resistance gene transfer into human pathogens. Therefore, several researchers have focused on combating the increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in diverse environments, using various carbon-based amendments to resolve issues regarding emerging contaminants. However, information on systematic knowledge regarding carbon-based material performance and mechanisms for alleviating ARGs remains lacking. To this end, we summarize carbon-based materials that are used as additives, amendments, adsorbents, and other functional materials in compost, soil, and water environments. The underlying mechanisms of alleviating ARG pollution using carbon-based materials are mainly related to 1) environmental factor improvement, 2) microbial community structure alteration, 3) chemical contaminant-caused co-selective pressure reduction, 4) mobile genetic element (mediating horizontal gene transfer processes) reduction, and 5) direct adsorption and/or damage to extracellular DNA. This review aimed to enrich our understanding of the functional roles of carbon-based materials and provide a basis for management strategy development to mitigate ARG pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How infectious diseases shape individual minds and behaviors has been of interest to researchers. We conducted four studies to examine whether the threat perception of the COVID-19 pandemic was positively related to pro-environmentalism. Study 1 (N = 1,508) showed that individuals' threat perception of the pandemic was correlated with their pro-environmental behaviors. Study 2 (N = 241) clarified the causality by manipulating threat perception and found that individuals with high (vs. low) threat perception reported higher pro-environmental willingness. Study 3 (N = 406) revealed that awe for nature mediated this relationship. Study 4 (N = 405) replicated Study 3 more than two years after the outbreak and demonstrated the findings were robust regardless of decreases in infection fear. These findings suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic provides individuals with an opportunity to reconsider the way they treat nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because of the inefficiency of the existing production process for large diameter longitudinal submerged arc welded (LSAW) pipe, a roll bending process is proposed, but it is difficult to control the pipe straightness with large length and small diameter to thickness (D/T) ratio. A method of deflection compensation with reverse bending top roll is proposed to solve the problem. The mechanical model of the roll bending process is established, and the forces on the plate and the roll, the deflection of the top roll and the torque are analyzed systematically. A set of roll bending machines was designed and developed, and the process parameters of different specifications of products were tested. The results show that the straightness of the pipe is less than 0.1 % of full length, and the error between theoretical analysis and test data is less than 15 %. The theoretical analysis method can be used to direct the production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waste calcium carbide slags (CS), which are widely applied to desulfurisation, are not typically used in denitration. Herein, to well achieve waste control by waste, a facile and high-efficiency denitration strategy is developed using KOH to modify the calcium carbide slags (KCS). Various KCS samples were investigated using a series of physical and chemical characterisations. The performance test results showed that the KOH concentration and reaction temperature are the main factors affecting the denitration efficiency of KCS, and CS modified with 1.5 mol/L KOH (KCS-1.5) can achieve 100% denitration efficiency at 300°C. Such excellent removal efficiency is due to the catalytic oxidation of the oxygen-containing functional groups derived from the KCS. Further studies showed that KOH treatment significantly increased the concentration of oxygen vacancies, nitro compounds, and basic sites of CS. This study provides a novel strategy for the resource utilisation of waste CS in the future. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Talaromyces marneffei is an opportunistic pathogenic fungus that mainly affects HIV-positive individuals endemic to Southeast Asia and China. Increasing efforts have been made in the pathogenic mechanism and host interactions understanding of this pathogen in the last two decades; however, there are still no conclusions on how T. marneffei was transmitted from the donor bamboo rats to humans. A perception that the failure of fungus isolation from soil was attributed to the low salt tolerance of T. marneffei. Therefore, the effect of environmental fluctuations in fungal growth and development is fundamental for the characterization of its origin and fungal biology understanding. Herein, we characterized high osmolarity, pH, metal ions, nutrients, and oxidative stress have versatile effects on T. marneffei hyphal or yeast growth, conidia generation, and pigment production. Among these, high pH, low glucose amounts, and the inorganic nitrogen ammonium tartrate stimulated the red pigment production, whereas high osmolarity, high pH, and the inorganic nitrogen sodium nitrate could significantly accelerate the conidia generation. Specifically, zinc starvation repressed conidia generation and prevented the wrinkled yeast colony formation, indicating the function of zinc regulators in pathogenicity regulation. Since conidia are recognized as the infectious propagules, the effects characterization of different environmental factors in T. marneffei morphology in this work will not only expand the growth and pathogenic biology understanding of the fungus but also provide more clues for the T. marneffei infection transmission origin investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantifying the relative strength of isolating barriers is a major focus of research on plant speciation. Contrasting life histories and mating systems have the potential to limit gene exchange between closely related populations growing in sympatry. However, few studies have quantified reproductive isolating barriers between conspecific annual and perennial populations and their contributions to total reproductive isolation (RI). Incarvillea sinensis Lam. (Bignoniaceae) is an insect‐pollinated herb with largely allopatric annual and perennial populations that differ in mating systems. The perennial populations are primarily outcrossing whereas annual populations are predominantly selfing. At a rare sympatric site in northern China we estimated prezygotic and postzygotic barriers to gene exchange between annual and perennial plants and found complete RI between the two life histories. Annuals exhibited significantly higher ecogeographic isolation than perennials whereas perennials experienced more isolation through pollen–pistil interactions than annuals. Crosses between annuals and perennials demonstrated that postzygotic barriers influencing fruit and seed formation, F1 germination and survival were negligible for annuals but played a small role for perennials. However, F1 hybrids of crosses between annuals and perennials produced no pollen and their ovules were largely sterile. Our study provides insight into the relative importance of prezygotic and postzygotic isolating barriers between closely related annual and perennial populations of I. sinensis and some of these barriers could have been involved with speciation. Annuals and perennials of I. sinensis represent two biological species and thus deserve to be recognized as distinct taxonomic species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Imparting high thermal conductivity to electrocaloric refrigeration polymers is a promising solution for efficiently synergizing and accurately managing the vast heat generated by high-power density electronics. We employed a sacrificial template method to construct a three-dimensional thermally conductive SiOC ceramic network and embedded it in the electrocaloric polymer. The electrocaloric composite film with a 1 wt. % SiOC achieved a synergistic improvement in heat transfer and electrocaloric cooling, while the thermal diffusivity of the 10 wt. % composites increased sixfold. The three-dimensional ceramic network not only acted as a heat transfer pathway but also induced the transition of the electrocaloric polymer chain to a high-entropy state, increasing the number of dipole entities that could be driven by the electric field. The system reached a refrigeration temperature change of 2 K at a field strength of as low as 30 MV m−1. The high-entropy and high-crystallized electrocaloric composite film induced by the SiOC thermal conductive interface provides a tool for synergistic thermal management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Hearing loss is prevalent following ototoxic therapy for childhood cancer. Associations between hearing loss, self-perceived hearing handicap, and functional outcomes have not been examined in survivors. Methods Adult survivors treated with platinum or head and neck radiotherapy with hearing loss were recruited. A total of 237 survivors (median age at survey = 37.0 years [range = 30.0-45.0 years]; median = 29.1 years [range = 22.4-35.0 years] since diagnosis; median = 4.0 years [range = 2.9-7.7 years] from last audiogram to survey) completed the Hearing Handicap Inventory for Adults and questionnaires on social and emotional functioning and hearing aid use. Hearing loss severity was defined according to Chang criteria. Multivariable logistic regression models estimated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for associations between hearing loss, hearing handicap, functional outcomes, and hearing aid use with adjustment for sex, race, age at hearing loss diagnosis, and age at survey. Results Two-thirds of survivors had severe hearing loss, which was associated with increased likelihood of hearing handicap (mild-moderate handicap: OR = 2.72, 95% CI = 1.35 to 5.47; severe handicap: OR = 5.99, 95% CI = 2.72 to 13.18). Survivors with severe hearing handicap had an increased likelihood of social isolation (OR = 8.76, 95% CI = 3.62 to 21.20), depression (OR = 9.11, 95% CI = 3.46 to 24.02), anxiety (OR = 17.57, 95% CI = 3.77 to 81.84), reduced personal income (OR = 2.82, 95% CI = 1.46 to 5.43), and less than full-time employment (OR = 2.47, 95% CI = 1.30 to 4.70). Survivors who did not use a recommended hearing aid were twice as likely to have less than full-time employment (OR = 2.26, 95% CI = 1.10 to 4.61) and reduced personal income (OR = 2.24, 95% CI = 1.08 to 4.63) compared with survivors who wore a hearing aid. Conclusion Self-perceived hearing handicap beyond measured hearing loss is associated with reduced functional outcomes. Assessment of hearing handicap may facilitate targeted interventions in adult survivors with hearing loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Previous studies have shown an association between environmental exposure to heavy metals and hearing loss. However, the findings regarding the relationship between exposure to different metals and hearing loss development are inconsistent. To address this, we conducted a meta‐analysis to explore the link between common heavy metal exposures and hearing loss. This study examined the effects of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and mercury (Hg) pollution on hearing loss at various levels, and systematically reviewed the literature on manganese (Mn), barium (Ba), arsenic (As), and hearing loss. Methods: We conducted systematic searches in five major databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Scopus. In addition, we searched three Chinese digital libraries: CNKI, Wanfang Data, and Wipu. From an initial pool of 649 articles, we carefully screened and selected 15 articles for further analysis. The effect sizes from these selected studies were synthesized through a meta‐analysis to calculate the overall effect size. Results: Our findings showed that: (1) There was a significant association between Pb and Cd exposure and hearing loss; (2) There is a proportional relationship between the increase of metal index detected in blood and hearing loss; (3) In the PTA measurement of hearing loss at different frequencies, the 4 kHz high frequency range had a stronger correlation with hearing loss than the low frequency, with OR 1.44 (1.22, 1.71); and (4) There was a more significant correlation between Barium (Ba) levels in nails and hair than in urine. Conclusions: The study presented evidence of a significant association between human hearing loss and exposure to lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd). It not only revealed a positive correlation between blood heavy metal concentrations and the incidence of hearing loss but also highlighted that long‐term exposure indicators of heavy metals were more indicative of the correlation with hearing loss. Lastly, the study recommends utilizing high frequency 4 kHz for the effective assessment and diagnosis of hearing loss caused by exposure to heavy metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Motivation Constructing a phylogenetic tree requires calculating the evolutionary distance between samples or species via large-scale resequencing data, a process that is both time-consuming and computationally demanding. Striking the right balance between accuracy and efficiency is a significant challenge. Results To address this, we introduce a new algorithm, MIKE (MinHash-based k -mer algorithm). This algorithm is designed for the swift calculation of the Jaccard coefficient directly from raw sequencing reads and enables the construction of phylogenetic trees based on the resultant Jaccard coefficient. Simulation results highlight the superior speed of MIKE compared to existing state-of-the-art methods. We used MIKE to reconstruct a phylogenetic tree, incorporating 238 yeast, 303 Zea , 141 Ficus , 67 Oryza , and 43 Saccharum spontaneum samples. MIKE demonstrated accurate performance across varying evolutionary scales, reproductive modes, and ploidy levels, proving itself as a powerful tool for phylogenetic tree construction. Availability and implementation MIKE is publicly available on Github at https://github.com/Argonum-Clever2/mike.git. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Milk coagulation is an important step in the production of fermented dairy products such as yogurt and cheese. Jujube is gaining popularity and acceptance as a food ingredient. In China, jujube yogurt is popular among consumers. However, there is limited information on the effect of jujube on acid- and rennet-induced coagulation properties of milk. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of jujube pulp at different concentrations on acid- and rennet-induced coagulation kinetics of milk and the microstructure of acid- and rennet-induced gels. During acid-induced coagulation, with increasing jujube pulp concentration, the initial pH value decreased; however, the final pH value increased. The initial elasticity index (EI) value increased, and the time point at which the mean square displacement curves lost the linear trend advanced. The sample with 10% jujube pulp had the densest structure and highest EI value. During rennet-induced coagulation, with increasing jujube pulp concentration, the production rate and amount of caseinomacropeptide decreased, and the final EI value increased. Protein aggregates in rennet-induced gels became rough, and the sample with 20% jujube pulp had the highest EI value. This study provides a new perspective and understanding of the application of jujube in fermented dairy products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The money-chain-like superstructure Ni-MOF nanomaterial catalyzes glucose, and the transformation processes of substances in glucose and the reaction system are thoroughly analyzed using multiple in-situ techniques, particularly the generation of NiOOH and the conversion of glucose to either glucose acid or gluconlactone, revealing important reaction mechanisms. [Display omitted] • Successfully synthesized money-chain-like superstructure Ni-MOF nanomaterials at room temperature and applied them to glucose electrochemical sensors. • Conducted in-depth research on the reaction mechanisms of Ni-MOF in glucose detection using techniques such as synchrotron radiation, in-situ Raman spectroscopy, and in-situ UV–visible spectrophotometry. • The reaction process between the generation of NiOOH and the conversion of glucose to gluconic acid was observed. • The conversion of glucose to either glucose acid or gluconlactone, revealing important reaction mechanisms. The design and synthesis of efficient electrochemical sensors are crucial transformation technologies in electrochemistry. We successfully synthesize a three-dimensional Ni-metal–organic framework (MOF) nanostructured material with a superior architecture using benzimidazole and nickel nitrate as precursors at room temperature which is being applied in glucose electrochemical sensors. The reaction mechanism of M-6 during glucose detection is thoroughly studied using various characterization techniques, such as in situ Raman spectroscopy, in situ ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometry, synchrotron radiography, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. The research findings demonstrate that the M-6 material exhibits high sensitivity for glucose detection, with a sensitivity of 2199.88 mA M−1 cm−2. This study provides an important reference for designing more efficient electrochemical reaction systems and optimizing material performance. Furthermore, the superstructural design offers new ideas and possibilities for the development and application of similar materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depression is a chronic psychiatric disorder related to diminished dopaminergic neurotransmission. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has shown effectiveness in treating patients with treatment-refractory depression (TRD). This study aimed to evaluate the effect of DBS on dopamine D2 receptor binding in patients with TRD. Six patients with TRD were treated with bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST)-nucleus accumbens (NAc) DBS were recruited. Ultra-high sensitivity [11C]raclopride dynamic total-body positron emission tomography (PET) imaging was used to assess the brain D2 receptor binding. Each patient underwent a [11C]raclopride PET scan for 60-min under DBS OFF and DBS ON, respectively. A simplified reference tissue model was used to generate parametric images of binding potential (BP ND) with the cerebellum as reference tissue. Depression and anxiety symptoms improved after 3–6 months of DBS treatment. Compared with two-day-nonstimulated conditions, one-day BNST-NAc DBS decreased [11C]raclopride BP ND in the amygdala (15.9 %, p < 0.01), caudate nucleus (15.4 %, p < 0.0001) and substantia nigra (10.8 %, p < 0.01). This study was limited to the small sample size and lack of a healthy control group. Chronic BNST-NAc DBS improved depression and anxiety symptoms, and short-term stimulation decreased D2 receptor binding in the amygdala, caudate nucleus, and substantia nigra. The findings suggest that DBS relieves depression and anxiety symptoms possibly by regulating the dopaminergic system. • BNST-NAc DBS can improve the depressive and anxiety symptoms of TRD patients. • BNST-NAc DBS decreased dopamine D2 receptor binding in the amygdala, caudate, and substantia nigra. • BNST-NAc DBS improves clinical symptoms of TRD patients potentially by compensating for the defective dopaminergic system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We assessed the predictive capacity of computed tomography (CT)-enhanced radiomics models in determining microvascular invasion (MVI) for isolated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ≤ 5 cm within peritumoral margins of 5 and 10 mm. Methods: Radiomics software was used for feature extraction. We used the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm to establish an effective model to predict patients' preoperative MVI status. Results: The area under the curve (AUC) values in the validation sets for the 5- and 10-mm radiomics models concerning arterial tumors were 0.759 and 0.637, respectively. In the portal vein phase, they were 0.626 and 0.693, respectively. Additionally, the combined radiomics model for arterial tumors and the peritumoral 5-mm margin had an AUC value of 0.820. The decision curve showed that the combined tumor and peritumoral radiomics model exhibited a somewhat superior benefit compared to the traditional model, while the fusion model demonstrated an even greater advantage, indicating its significant potential in clinical application. Conclusion: The 5-mm peritumoral arterial model had superior accuracy and sensitivity in predicting MVI. Moreover, the combined tumor and peritumoral radiomics model outperformed both the individual tumor and peritumoral radiomics models. The most effective combination was the arterial phase tumor and peritumor 5-mm margin combination. Using a fusion model that integrates tumor and peritumoral radiomics and clinical data can aid in the preoperative diagnosis of the MVI of isolated HCC ≤ 5 cm, indicating considerable practical value. Critical relevance statement: The radiomics model including a 5-mm peritumoral expansion is a promising noninvasive biomarker for preoperatively predicting microvascular invasion in patients diagnosed with a solitary HCC ≤ 5 cm. Key points: • Radiomics features extracted at a 5-mm distance from the tumor could better predict hepatocellular carcinoma microvascular invasion. • Peritumoral radiomics can be used to capture tumor heterogeneity and predict microvascular invasion. • This radiomics model stands as a promising noninvasive biomarker for preoperatively predicting MVI in individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: Stroke may cause extensive after-effects such as motor function impairments and disorder of consciousness (DoC). Detecting these after-effects of stroke and monitoring their changes are challenging jobs currently undertaken via traditional clinical examinations. These behavioural examinations often take a great deal of manpower and time, thus consuming significant resources. Computer-aided examinations of the electroencephalogram (EEG) microstates derived from bedside EEG monitoring may provide an alternative way to assist medical practitioners in a quick assessment of the after-effects of stroke. Methods: In this study, we designed a framework to extract microstate maps and calculate their statistical parameters to input to classifiers to identify DoC in ischemic stroke patients automatically. As the dataset is imbalanced with the minority of patients being DoC, an ensemble of support vector machines (EOSVM) is designed to solve the problem that classifiers always tend to be the majority classes in the classification on an imbalanced dataset. Results: The experimental results show EOSVM get better performance (with accuracy and F1-Score both higher than 89%), improving sensitivity the most, from lower than 60% (SVM and AdaBoost) to higher than 80%. This highlighted the usefulness of the EOSVM-aided DoC detection based on microstates parameters. Conclusion: Therefore, the classifier EOSVM classification based on features of EEG microstates is helpful to medical practitioners in DoC detection with saved resources that would otherwise be consumed in traditional clinic checks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because global anthropogenic activities cause vast biodiversity loss, human dimensions research is essential to forming management plans applicable to biodiversity conservation outside wilderness areas. Engaging public participation is crucial in this context to achieve social and environmental benefits. However, knowledge gaps remain in understanding how a balance between conservation and public demands can be reached and how complicated sociocultural contexts in the Anthropocene can be incorporated in conservation planning. We examined China's nationwide conflict between free‐ranging cats (owned cats that are allowed to go outdoors or homeless cats living outdoors) and wildlife to examine how a consensus between compassion and biodiversity conservation can help in decision‐making. We surveyed a random sample of people in China online. Over 9000 questionnaires were completed (44.2% response). In aggregate, respondents reported approximately 29 million free‐ranging owned cats and that over 5 million domestic cats per year become feral in mainland China. Respondents who were cat owners, female, and religious were more likely to deny the negative impacts of cats on wildlife and ongoing management strategies and more supportive of stray cat shelters, adoption, and community‐based fund raising than nonowners, male, and nonreligious respondents (p < 0.05). Free‐ranging cat ownership and abandonment occurred less with owners with more knowledge of biodiversity and invasive species than with respondents with less knowledge of these subjects (p < 0.05). We recommend that cat enthusiasts and wildlife conservationists participate in community‐based initiatives, such as campaigns to keep cats indoors. Our study provides a substantially useful framework for other regions where free‐ranging cats are undergoing rapid expansion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photovoltaic power generation can directly convert solar energy into electricity, but most of the solar energy absorbed by the photovoltaic panel is converted into heat, which significantly increases the operating temperature leading to a reduction in the power generation efficiency of the panels. To reduce the working temperature of photovoltaic panels and improve the photoelectric conversion efficiency, this paper installs aluminum fins and air channels at the traditional photovoltaic cell back sheets and cools them with forced-circulation cooling through fans. The relationships between fin spacing, fin height, air channel inlet wind speed and panel temperature, power generation, and electrical efficiency were investigated. The results show that the temperature of the photovoltaic panel decreases and then increases with the decrease of the fin spacing during natural convection and gradually decreases with the increase of the fin height. The use of forced-circulation cooling technology can effectively reduce the PV panel temperature and increase the net power generation. When the solar radiation intensity is 1000 W/m2, the ambient temperature is 35°C, the fin spacing is 6 mm, the height is 80 mm, the inlet wind speed is 1 m/s, the net generating power reaches the maximum value, and the net generating power and the electrical efficiency are increased by 14.6% and 2.25%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nursing students, who comprise a high percentage of China's college students, experience many psychological problems; however, few studies explored the mechanisms underlying these problems. This cross-sectional study explored the relationships and mechanisms of depression, anxiety, stress, and narrative disorders in senior nursing students. Questionnaires were administered to 380 senior nursing students in Hubei Province using the Sociodemographic Questionnaire, Toronto Alexithymia-20 Scale, Perceived Social Support Scale, 10-Item Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, and Depression-Anxiety-Stress Scale. After controlling for sociodemographic variables, Hayes' PROCESS macros were used to test how psychological resilience moderates the relationships among narrative disorders, negative affect, and perceived social support. Bootstrap confidence intervals tested for indirect effects. Correlation analyses revealed that alexithymia was correlated significantly positively with depression-anxiety-stress (r = 0.57, 0.56, and 0.58, resp.) and significantly negatively with perceived social support (r = 0-0.46). Psychological resilience was correlated significantly negatively with alexithymia (r=-0.39) and depression-anxiety-stress (r=-0.31, -0.30, and-0.32, resp.) but significantly positively with perceived social support(r = 0.50). Perceived social support was correlated significantly negatively with depression-anxiety-stress (r=-0.33, -0.34, and − 0.42 resp.). Stress was correlated significantly positively with anxiety and depression (r = 0.81 and 0.77, resp.). Psychological resilience was a partial mediator between depression and dysphoria (β=-0.08, p < 0.05). Dysphoria directly predicted anxiety (β = 0.31) and stress (β = 0.37); moreover,alexithymia predicted depression not only directly but also through the mediating effect of psychological resilience. Therefore, educators and clinical administrators must promote and recognise negative emotions among nursing students to help ensure the nursing workforce's stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the clinical effectiveness of Arthroscopic-assisted Uni-portal Spinal Surgery (AUSS) in the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis. Methods: A total of 475 patients with lumbar spinal stenosis from January 2019 to January 2023 were included in this study. Among them, 240 patients were treated with AUSS (AUSS group); the other 235 patients were treated with unilateral bi-portal endoscopy treatment (UBE group). The differences in surgery-related clinical indicators, pain degree before and after surgery, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), CT imaging parameters of spinal stenosis, and clinical efficacy were compared between the two groups. Results: Patients in the AUSS group had a shorter operative time than those in the UBE group, and the length of incision and surgical bleeding were less than those in the UBE group, with statistically significant differences (P < 0.05). Before operation, there was no significant difference in the VAS score of low back pain and leg pain between the two groups (P > 0. 05). After operation, patients in both groups showed a significant reduction in low back and leg pain, and their VAS scores were significantly lower than before the operation (P < 0.05). Three months after surgery, the results of CT re-examination in both groups showed that the spinal stenosis of the patients was well improved, and the measurements of lumbar spinal interspace APDC, CAC, ICA, CAD and LAC were significantly higher than those before surgery (P < 0. 05). Besides, the lumbar function of patients improved significantly in both groups, and ODI measurements were significantly lower than those before surgery (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Both AUSS and UBE with unilateral laminotomy for bilateral decompression can achieve good clinical results in the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis, but the former has the advantages of simpler operation, shorter operation time, shorter incision length, and less surgical blood loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between a pro‐inflammatory diet, assessed by the dietary inflammatory index (DII), and allergic diseases has attracted attention. However, the association between DII and immunoglobulin E (IgE) remains uncertain. We aim to investigate the association between energy‐adjusted DII (E‐DII) and total IgE. We analyzed data from the 2005 to 2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The relationship between E‐DII and total IgE was assessed using linear regression and logistic regression analysis. Meanwhile, we conducted a subgroup analysis stratified by body mass index (BMI) and analyzed the mediating role of BMI. We included 3614 adult participants. After controlling for confounding factors, there was no statistical association between E‐DII and total IgE (β 0.023, 95% CI −0.01 to 0.057, p =.173) and the risk of high total IgE (OR 1.036, 95% CI 0.977 to 1.099, p =.233). We conducted subgroup analysis stratified by BMI. After controlling for confounding factors, only in overweight groups, E‐DII was statistically associated with total IgE (β 0.076, 95% CI 0.017 to 0.135, p =.012) and the risk of high total IgE (OR 1.124, 95% CI 1.015 to 1.246, p =.025). Generalized additive models and smooth curve fittings showed a positive linear relationship between E‐DII and total IgE in overweight participants. No statistical association was noted for the mediation effect of BMI on the association between E‐DII and total IgE in the overweight group (p =.23). Overweight participants with higher E‐DII were potentially at risk of elevated total IgE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the (Ni50Mn34.75In15.25)0.9/(Tb0.3Dy0.7Fe1.92)0.1 composites were prepared by spark plasma sintering method, and the influence of different sintering temperatures on the magnetocaloric effect of the composites was studied. For the composite sintered at 923 K, the adiabatic temperature change at a 1.5-T magnetic field is as high as − 2.8 K, and the effective refrigeration capacity at a 5-T magnetic field reaches up to 190 Jkg−1. This is attributed to the fact that internal stresses generated by the magnetostriction of the Tb0.3Dy0.7Fe1.92 particles assist in the magnetic field-driven inverse martensitic transformation and reduce the critical field for phase transition. As the sintering temperature increases to 1023 K, the thermoelastic martensitic transformation characteristic of the composite disappears, which is attributed to the generation of more Fe-rich and In-poor phases in the composite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the convergence theorem of the quantum dynamic framework (QDF) is given and the convergence of QDF is proved by the imaginary time evolution method in theoretical physics. Convergence analysis has shown that the convergence of QDF is a fast and then slow process; the convergence rate mainly depends on the difference between the optimal solution and the sub-optimal solution. The experimental results verify the theoretical conclusion. This study indicates that quantum dynamics may become a new theoretical paradigm for the study of optimization algorithms and promote the study of the universality theory of optimization algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: In this article, for a class of stochastic nonlinear systems with non‐strict feedback, a neural adaptive inverse optimal output feedback control design scheme is presented. First, according to the existing inverse optimal criterion, an auxiliary system is established. On this basis, a novel observer is built to evaluate the unpredictable states. Second, in the control process, neural networks (NNs) are applied to estimate the unknown functions. Based on NNs and the backstepping technology, an adaptive neural inverse optimal output feedback controller is established. It is indicated that the proposed scheme could ensure the semi‐globally uniformly ultimately bounded of the closed‐loop system and also achieve the objective of inverse optimality. Eventually, an example is applied to testify the feasibility of this scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The poverty alleviation effects of digital financial inclusion are widely recognized, while these effects are dependent on the financial environment. However, little is known about how the financial environment influences digital financial inclusion, which leads to a reduction in household multidimensional poverty. Using matching data from Peking University Digital Financial Inclusion Index of China and Chinese Family Panel Studies for 2012, 2014, 2016, and 2018, this paper estimates the impact of digital financial inclusion on household multidimensional poverty, considering the financial environment. The results show that: (1) Digital financial inclusion alleviates household multidimensional poverty and has significant alleviation effects on different dimensions of poverty. (2) Digital financial inclusion plays a particularly significant role in reducing household multidimensional poverty in China's rural areas and central-western regions. (3) Credit availability, social capital, and non-agricultural employment are important channels through which digital financial inclusion reduces household multidimensional poverty. (4) A single threshold effect governs the influence of the financial environment on the impact of digital financial inclusion on household multidimensional poverty. When the financial environment crosses the threshold value, the poverty reduction effect of digital financial inclusion is enhanced. For the components of the financial environment, a single threshold effect governs the influence of both traditional financial foundations and household financial literacy on the impact of digital financial inclusion on multidimensional poverty, whereas government financial supervision does so via a double threshold effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to reveal the interdisciplinarity of information science (IS) from the perspective of the evolution of theory application. Design/methodology/approach: Select eight representative IS journals as data sources, extract the theories mentioned in the full texts of the research papers and then measure annual interdisciplinarity of IS by conducting theory co-occurrence network analysis, diversity measure and evolution analysis. Findings: As a young and vibrant discipline, IS has been continuously absorbing and internalizing external theoretical knowledge and thus formed a high degree of interdisciplinarity. With the continuous application of some kernel theories, the interdisciplinarity of IS appears to be decreasing and gradually converging into a few neighboring disciplines. Influenced by big data and artificial intelligence, the research paradigm of IS is shifting from a theory centered one to a technology centered one. Research limitations/implications: This study helps to understand the evolution of the interdisciplinarity of IS in the past 21 years. The main limitation is that the data were collected from eight journals indexed by the Social Sciences Citation Index and a small amount of theories might have been omitted. Originality/value: This study identifies the kernel theories in IS research, measures the interdisciplinarity of IS based on the evolution of the co-occurrence network of theory source disciplines and reveals the paradigm shift being happening in IS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Learning to read depends on the ability to extract precise details of letter combinations, which convey critical information that distinguishes tens of thousands of visual word forms. To support fluent reading skill, one crucial neural developmental process is one's brain sensitivity to statistical constraints inherent in combining letters into visual word forms. To test this idea in early readers, we tracked the impact of two years of schooling on within‐subject longitudinal changes in cortical responses to three different properties of words: coarse tuning for print, and fine tuning to either familiar letter combinations within visual word forms or whole word representations. We then examined how each related to growth in reading skill. Three stimulus contrasts—words versus pseudofonts, words versus pseudowords, pseudowords versus nonwords—were presented while high‐density EEG Steady‐State Visual Evoked Potentials (SSVEPs, n = 31) were recorded. Internalization of abstract visual word form structures over two years of reading experience resulted in a near doubling of SSVEP amplitude, with increasing left lateralization. Longitudinal changes (decreases) in brain responses to such word form structural information were linked to the growth in reading skills, especially in rapid automatic naming of letters. No such changes were observed for whole word representation processing and coarse tuning for print. Collectively, these findings indicate that sensitivity to visual word form structure develops rapidly through exposure to print and is linked to growth in reading skill. Research Highlights: Longitudinal changes in cognitive responses to coarse print tuning, visual word from structure, and whole word representation were examined in early readers.Visual word form structure processing demonstrated striking patterns of growth with nearly doubled in EEG amplitude and increased left lateralization.Longitudinal changes (decreases) in brain responses to visual word form structural information were linked to the growth in rapid automatic naming for letters.No longitudinal changes were observed for whole word representation processing and coarse tuning for print. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) has been widely used as a new liquid-biopsy marker. Dysregulation of cfDNA has been found in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, the detailed association between cfDNA and SLE has not been thoroughly studied. Methods: Plasma samples were collected from 88 patients with active SLE and 39 patients with inactive SLE. The cfDNA concentration was determined, and the length and distribution of cfDNA fragments were verified. Results: cfDNA concentrations were significantly higher in patients with active SLE than in patients with inactive SLE (0.4 [0.18–0.897] ng/µL vs 0.249 [0.144–0.431] ng/µL; p =.043). cfDNA fragments were enriched in the ranges of 153–198 bp and 300–599 bp. cfDNA concentrations were associated with the reduction of the anti-double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) antibodies titer (r = −0.301, p =.034). The presence of anti-U1 ribonucleoprotein (p =.012), anti-Sjogren syndrome A (p =.024), anti-dsDNA (p =.0208), and anti-nucleosome antibodies (p =.0382) might associate to the variation of cfDNA concentration. Reduced cfDNA concentration was associated with renal damage in active SLE patients (0.31 [0.11–0.73] ng/µL vs 0.65 [0.27–1.53] ng/µL; p =.009). The Active index, a combination model including cfDNA concentration and other clinical indices, had an area of 0.886 under the receiver operating characteristics curve for distinguishing active SLE. The Active index was positively correlated with the SLE disease activity index score (r = 0.6724, p <.0001). Conclusions: Through systematic stratified analysis and clinical algorithm model, this study found that plasma cfDNA concentration is closely related to SLE disease severity, which has guiding significance for the future clinical application of cfDNA in SLE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A meta-analysis was performed to assess the benefits and safety profile of approved immune checkpoint inhibitors in hepatocellular carcinoma patients. Eligible studies were searched from Cochrane, Embase, and PubMed databases based on a well-established strategy. Following the exclusion of ineligible studies, 12 studies were included in this meta-analysis. Compared with control group, immune checkpoint inhibitors were associated with improved ORR (OR 3.03, 95% CI 2.26–4.05, P < 0.00001), SD (OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.62–0.95, P = 0.02), OS (HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.68–0.83, P < 0.00001), and PFS (HR 0.74, 95% CI 0.63–0.87, P < 0.0003). However, no significant differences were observed in DCR (OR 1.33, 95% CI 0.97–1.81, P = 0.07), PD (OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.67–1.21, P = 0.48), and all caused any-grade adverse events (OR 1.22, 95% CI 0.62–2.39, P = 0. 57), all caused ≥ grade 3 adverse events (OR 1.10, 95% CI 0.97–1.25, P = 0.14), treatment-related any-grade adverse events (OR 1.13, 95% CI 0.55–2.32, P = 0.73), and treatment-related ≥ grade 3 events (OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.34–1.97, P = 0.65) between the two groups. After subgroup analysis conducted, patients in the immune checkpoint inhibitor group compared with targeted drug group showed significant improvements in OS (HR 0.74, 95% CI 0.66–0.84, P < 0.00001) and PFS (HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.61–0.91, P = 0.004). Immune checkpoint inhibitors have demonstrated peculiar benefits in the treatment of HCC with an acceptable safety profile. Compared to targeted drugs, immune checkpoint inhibitors still offer advantages in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. However, there is still considerable room for further improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined the association between work–family conflict and turnover intention by exploring the mediating effect of job satisfaction and the moderating effect of career calling. Data from 1,346 Chinese rural preschool teachers were processed using correlation analysis and hierarchical linear regression analysis. The results revealed that work–family conflict was significantly and positively associated with rural preschool teachers' turnover intention. Job satisfaction mediated this relationship, while career calling moderated the association between work–family conflict and job satisfaction. These findings contribute to understanding of turnover intention among rural preschool teachers and suggest the need to enhance career calling to promote job satisfaction and reduce turnover in this profession. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The intrinsic resistance energy ΔG≠XH/X of H‐donor XH in hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) reaction is usually used to evaluate the kinetic H‐donating ability. In this article, a new method for determining ΔG≠XH/X of H‐donor in HAT reaction was proposed by the definition of thermo‐kinetic parameter ΔG≠o (XH) = 1/2[ΔG≠XH/X + ΔGo (XH)]. ΔG≠o (XH) is the characteristic physical parameter of XH to describe the H‐donating ability in a chemical reaction during a certain reaction time, ΔGo (XH) is the bond dissociation free energy. The kinetic studies of HATs between 20 alcohols, ethers, alkanes and amines (XH) with cumyloxyl radical [PhC (CH3)2O•, CumO•] were researched, and ΔGo (XH), ΔG≠XH/X, and ΔG≠o (XH) were used to investigate the H‐donating abilities of the studied substrates in thermodynamics, kinetics, and HAT reaction. The effect of structures of XH on these three parameters, the structure–activity relationship, such as the influence of electronic, steric, polar and stereoelectronic effects of substituents, heteroatoms insertion in cycloalkanes, and cis–trans configurational isomerism on the H‐donating abilities were discussed in detail. This study not only provides a new method for determining ΔG≠XH/X but also systematically studies the factors affecting the H‐donating ability, laying a foundation for the selection, design, and synthesis of more efficient antioxidants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]