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Purpose: We evaluated the efficacy of megestrol in improving chemotherapy-related anorexia by analyzing the related scales of taste alteration. Methods: We conducted the current study on a group of advanced patients with cancer with two or more chemotherapy cycles. The chemotherapy-induced taste alteration scale (CiTAs) scale helped assess the megestrol effects on basic taste perception, aversive taste changes, unpleasant symptoms, and associated concerns. Furthermore, the Short Nutritional Assessment Questionnaire scale (SNAQ) helped measure the impact of megestrol on malnutrition likelihood in patients experiencing chemotherapy-induced anorexia. The World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL)-BREF Scale was used to evaluate the quality of life of participants, producing scores related to physical health, psychological well-being, environmental factors, and social relationships. Results: The CiTAs scale assessment indicated that administering megestrol significantly enhanced taste perception among advanced patients with cancer undergoing chemotherapy. Notably, the megestrol group patients showed significantly higher Short Nutritional Assessment Questionnaire (SNAQ) scores than the control group. The megestrol group patients also exhibited higher physiological (PHYS) scores than their control group counterparts. However, this distinction was not statistically significant. The study findings indicate that patients who received megestrol demonstrated significantly higher scores in psychological (PSYCH) and environmental(ENVIR) domains than the control group. Furthermore, megestrol administration was associated with significantly elevated SOCIL and ENVIR levels in patients. Conclusion: The proficient efficacy evaluation of megestrol in enhancing appetite, mitigating malnutrition likelihood, and improving the quality of life of chemotherapy-induced anorexic patients can be achieved through taste-related scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the prognostic relationship between serum KL-6 level and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) combined with interstitial lung disease (RA-ILD). Methods: In Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University from January 2018 to January 2021, seventy patients with RA were selected and divided into RA-ILD group (34 cases) and RA (36 cases) according to whether they were complicated with ILD, clinicopathological characteristics of the two groups of patients were analyzed by univariate analysis, focusing on the comparison of the expression level of KL-6 in the serum of the two groups and the correlation analysis with laboratory indexes, lung function and imaging, multivariate Logistic regression analysis risk factors affecting RA-ILD. Results: There were significant differences in gender, smoking history, age, age of onset, course of disease, DAS28, KL-6, WBC, UA, RF, anti-CCP antibody, TLC%Pred and DLCO%Pred between the two groups (P<0.05). In RA-ILD group, the proportion of clinical symptoms was more prominent, joint pain was more prominent, and the thickening of pleural adhesion was more prominent on HRCT; Spearson correlation analysis showed that the level of serum KL-6 in RA-ILD group was significantly negatively correlated with TLC% Pred, VC%Pred and DLCO%Pred (P<0.05); there was a significant positive correlation with RF and anti-CCP antibody levels (P< 0.05); there was no significant correlation with FEV1% Pred and FEV1/FVC (P>0.05) ; expression level of KL-6 in RA-ILD group was significantly higher than that in RA group before treatment, and there was no significant difference after treatment (P>0.05) ;Fol- lowed up for one year, six patients died in RA-ILD group. The expression level of KL-6 in death group was significantly higher than that in non death group (P<0.05) ; multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that old age, male, smoking, increased anti CCP antibody and KL-6 were independent risk factors for RA-ILD (P<0.05) ; the maximum area under the ROC curve predicted by serum KL-6 was 0.802, the 95%C/ was 0.743~0.866, the sensitivity was 0.853, the specificity was 0.827, and the maximum area under the ROC curve detected jointly was 0.854, indicating that the prediction ability of the model was strong. Conclusion: Serum KL-6 levels in RA-ILD patients are significantly increased. KL-6 can be used as a serological index for early detection of ILD, and combined with lung function detection can detect ILD earlier. Early diagnosis is of great significance for treatment and prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the functional linear models in which the dependent variable is functional and the predictors are scalar, robust regularization for simultaneous variable selection and regression parameter estimation is an important yet challenging issue. In this paper, we propose two types of regularized robust estimation methods. The first estimator adopts the ideas of reproducing kernel Hilbert space, least absolute deviation and group Lasso techniques. Based on the first method, the second estimator applies the pre-whitening technique and estimates the error covariance function by using functional principal component analysis. Simulation studies are conducted to examine the performance of the proposed methods in small sample sizes. The method is also applied to the Canadian weather data set, which consists of the daily average temperature and precipitation observed by 35 meteorological stations across Canada from 1960 to 1994. Numerical simulations and real data analysis show a good performance of the proposed robust methods for function-on-scalar models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unfit acute myeloid leukemia and high-risk myelodysplastic syndrome patients with prolonged neutropenia demand coadministration of venetoclax and azoles. However, venetoclax dosing under drug–drug interaction with azoles remains controversial. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is expected to guide drug dosage adjustments. We retrospectively enrolled 17 patients under this coadministration and TDM. Venetoclax dosages were interfered when inappropriate drug concentrations appeared. The primary endpoints were objective response and adverse events. Venetoclax concentration outliers were more frequently evaluated before than after dose adjustment (Cmax 60.87% vs. 0.00%, p <.0001). MRD negativity rate was higher in patients staying within reference range than those having outliers (90.91% vs. 33.33%, p =.028). Objective response rate was 100%. Hematologic adverse events included neutropenia (93.3%), febrile neutropenia (53.3%), and thrombocytopenia (81.3%). Median time to neutropenia and thrombocytopenia recovery was 20 (14–32) and 16.5 (6–34) days, respectively. No invasive fungal and other life-threatening infections were observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Application of accumulated experience and management measures in the prevention and control of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has generally depended on the subjective judgment of epidemic intensity, with the quality of prevention and control management being uneven. The present study was designed to develop a novel risk management system for COVID-19 infection in outpatients, with the ability to provide accurate and hierarchical control based on estimated risk of infection. Methods: Infection risk was estimated using an auto regressive integrated moving average model (ARIMA). Weekly surveillance data on influenza-like-illness (ILI) among outpatients at Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University and Baidu search data downloaded from the Baidu Index in 2021 and 22 were used to fit the ARIMA model. The ability of this model to estimate infection risk was evaluated by determining the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), with a Delphi process used to build consensus on hierarchical infection control measures. COVID-19 control measures were selected by reviewing published regulations, papers and guidelines. Recommendations for surface sterilization and personal protection were determined for low and high risk periods, with these recommendations implemented based on predicted results. Results: The ARIMA model produced exact estimates for both the ILI and search engine data. The MAPEs of 20-week rolling forecasts for these datasets were 13.65% and 8.04%, respectively. Based on these two risk levels, the hierarchical infection prevention methods provided guidelines for personal protection and disinfection. Criteria were also established for upgrading or downgrading infection prevention strategies based on ARIMA results. Conclusion: These innovative methods, along with the ARIMA model, showed efficient infection protection for healthcare workers in close contact with COVID-19 infected patients, saving nearly 41% of the cost of maintaining high-level infection prevention measures and enhancing control of respiratory infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hereditary tyrosinemia type III (HT III) is an extremely rare form of tyrosinemia, characterized by autosomal recessive inheritance and biallelic mutations in the HPD gene. The clinical presentation of HT III is variable and poorly understood, with symptoms ranging from developmental delay and intellectual impairment to seizures and intermittent ataxia. This study aimed to provide further insights into the clinical and genetic characteristics of HT III. Methods: A 3‐year‐old girl, identified through newborn screening, was diagnosed with HT III using targeted next‐generation sequencing. A comprehensive literature review was conducted, and the clinical, biochemical, and genetic findings of previously reported HT III patients were summarized and analyzed. Results: The genetic analysis of the proband revealed compound heterozygous mutations in the HPD gene such as c.731C>T (p.A244V) and c.656C>T (p.T219M). Notably, the HPD p.A244V mutation had not been previously documented in public databases or the scientific literature. Bioinformatics analysis classified both variants as pathogenic variants. The patient exhibited persistent tyrosinemia, elevated levels of related metabolite derivatives, confirming the diagnosis of HT III. The review of previously published cases contributed to a better understanding of the clinical and genetic characteristics associated with HT III. Conclusion: Early diagnosis and prompt treatment in infancy are crucial for managing HT III effectively. Dietary therapy, particularly during childhood, plays a significant role in disease management. The findings from this study enhance our understanding of the genotype–phenotype associations in HT III and emphasize the importance of early intervention for improved patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change has had significant impacts on agriculture, particularly on cotton production, where drought has emerged as a major threat worldwide. Long and intense dry periods in cotton-growing regions have become more frequent and severe. Drought stress severely affects various aspects of cotton plants, including chlorophyll pigments, carbohydrate metabolism, and enzyme activities related to fiber development, such as vacuolar invertase and sucrose synthase. Furthermore, drought stress disrupts the movement of nutrients toward the reproductive tissues in cotton, resulting in compromised pollen function, propagative failure, and fiber characteristics. To tackle these issues, scientists have made advancements in creating drought-resistant cotton varieties through transgenic methods or molecular breeding techniques, genome editing, CRISPR/Cas9, utilizing quantitative trait loci (QTL). Moreover, the application of plant growth regulators and mineral elements has displayed the potential to improve cotton's ability to endure drought stress while also enhancing fiber yield and quality. These approaches activate stress-responsive signaling pathways, which could contribute to mitigating reproductive failure and improving fiber characteristics. While the impact of drought stress on cotton plants has been extensively studied, the variations in fiber quality resulting from drought stress are not yet completely understood. Current research has been focused on unraveling the mechanisms underlying these changes, including the physiological, biochemical, and molecular alterations during the multiplicative growth phase that contribute to poor fiber development. Understanding these mechanisms will facilitate the development of novel strategies to alleviate the adverse impact of worldwide weather changes on cotton growth and fiber quality. This research focuses on the drought stress in cotton cultivation and explores its different effects on cotton morphology, physiology, crop yield, and fiber characteristics as well as mechanisms by which cotton exhibits drought tolerance and highlights innovative strategies to mitigate drought stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic inflammation plays a vital role in the development of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Studies in mouse models show that neutrophil serine proteases (NSPs), neutrophil elastase (NE) and proteinase-3 (PR3) are important drivers of chronic inflammation with consequent metabolic disturbances. This study evaluated the association of NE and PR3 with GDM development and adverse fetal outcomes. Method(s): This was a prospective cohort study. Serum PR3 and NE concentration was measured in all enrolled pregnant women in the first and the second trimester to determine the connection between NSPs and GDM and adverse fetal outcomes. Logistic regression, spline regression and linear regression analyses were applied to investigate the association of NE or PR3 with GDM development and adverse fetal outcomes. The concentration of NE and PR3 in placental biopsies was evaluated by semi-quantitative analysis of immunohistochemistry staining. Result(s): NE or PR3 concentration in the first trimester, rather than the second, increased more significantly in women with GDM than in those without, regardless of pre-pregnancy body mass index and age. There was a stepwise increase in GDM occurrence as well as comprehensive adverse fetal outcomes across tertiles of NE and PR3. NE and PR3 were positively associated with neutrophil count, pre-pregnancy BMI, plasma glucose level and newborn weight. Logistic regression revealed NE or PR3 to be independent risk factors for the development of GDM and comprehensive adverse fetal outcomes. Spline regression showed a significant increased risk of GDM occurrence and comprehensive adverse fetal outcomes when serum NE concentration exceeded 417.60 ng/mL and a similar result for PR3 and GDM occurrence when the latter exceeded 88.52 ng/mL. Immunohistochemistry data confirmed that enriched NE and PR3 content in placental tissue may have contributed to the development of GDM. Conclusion(s): This work demonstrates that excessive first-trimester NE and PR3 increase the risk of GDM development and comprehensive adverse fetal outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global climate warming and increased climate variability may increase the number of annual freeze–thaw cycles (FTCs) in temperate zones. The occurrence of more frequent FTCs is predicted to influence soil carbon and nitrogen cycles and increase nitrogen leaching. Biochar has the potential to increase soil organic carbon storage and decrease nitrogen leaching. This study aims to investigate the impact of freeze–thaw cycles (FTCs) on soil nitrogen leaching in temperate zones, considering the potential exacerbation of FTCs due to global climate warming and increased climate variability. This study focuses on how biochar, a carbon-rich material produced from biomass, might mitigate nitrogen leaching by influencing soil characteristics. This study explores the interactions between different laboratory-simulated FTC frequencies (ranging from 0 to 12 cycles) and various biochar addition ratios (0%, 2%, 4%, and 6% w/w) on soil nitrogen leaching based on a total of 60 soil columns. Pearson correlations between the soil quality indicators and nitrogen leaching characteristics were detected, and partial least squares path modeling (PLS-PM) was used to assess the effects of the FTCs, biochar addition ratios, and soil quality indicators on the nitrogen leaching content. The results showed that the amount of leached soil NH4+-N and NO3−-N reached 0.129–1.726 mg and 2.90–7.90 mg, respectively. NH4+-N and NO3−-N first increased and then decreased under the FTCs, with the highest values being observed after the 6th FTC. As the biochar addition ratio increased, the NH4+-N and NO3−-N contents decreased. Correlation analysis showed that the nitrogen leaching content was significantly related to the soil pH, soil organic matter (SOM), NH4+-N content, and microbial biomass carbon content (MBC) (p < 0.01). The results of the conceptual path model revealed that nitrogen leaching characteristics were significantly affected by the pH, SOM, soil nitrogen content, and biochar addition ratio. Our results suggest that biochar addition can help reduce nitrogen leaching in farmland soil in areas with black soil and seasonal freeze–thaw cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Millimetre‐wave (mmWave) frequencies play a vital role in fifth‐generation (5G) wireless systems and beyond due to the vast available bandwidth of several GHz. This paper presents channel characteristics and their channel models for mmWave based on extensive channel measurements at 26 and 38 GHz conducted in 5G scenarios, such as the rooftop, the high‐speed railway, and the Industrial Internet of Things scenarios. The channel sounder receiver (Rx) uses an omnidirectional or phased array antenna to meet the requirements of channel measurement, such as recording absolute delay and obtaining 3‐dimensional angular information. We use the classical close‐in model and floating‐intercept model to model path loss. Meanwhile, channel statistics in the delay domain are derived from the measured power delay profiles. Note that the different scenarios are measured with the same channel sounder, making the measurement results of different scenarios comparable. It is shown that the shadow fading parameter σ is 0.7 dB as fewer large scatterers exist in the rooftop scenario. Moreover, due to the significant dependence of delay spread on the geometric relationship between the transmitter (Tx), Rx, and surrounding environment, the statistical data in the delay domain varies significantly in different scenarios. The channel characteristics and models will guide future air‐interface, beamforming, and transceiver designs for 5G and beyond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wheat production suffers greatly from drought stress, resulting in yield losses. Endophytes and rhizobacteria have been recognized as a valuable source in mitigating of drought stress by improving plant resistance and growth. In this review, we discuss how endophytes and rhizobacteria help wheat cope with drought stress. During drought stress, endophytes have been found to increase plant water usage efficiency and decrease water loss. Endophytes are harmless microorganisms that live inside plant tissues. Rhizobacteria establish colonies in the root system through various procedures, including phytohormones production, modification of root architecture, and activation of stress-inducible genes, thereby promoting plant growth and enhancing stress resistance. Numerous studies have shown how endophytes and rhizobacteria can improve the potential of wheat to withstand drought. For instance, inoculation with endophytes like Piriformospora indica and Bacillus spp. has been proven to enhance wheat plant yield and drought resistance. Similarly, it has been proven that rhizobacteria like Pseudomonas spp. and Azospirillum brasilense enhance drought tolerance through a variety of mechanisms. To minimize the consequence of wheat under drought conditions, the efficient method is the use of endophytes and rhizobacteria as biofertilizers, which could ultimately boost yields and sustainability. More research needs to be done so that it can be used most effectively in the field and so that we can better understand how they work. We explained current understanding of the role and mechanisms of endophytes and rhizobacteria in minimizing drought stress effects in wheat. Additionally, we highlighted areas of limited knowledge and suggested directions for future research. This review will provide the new suggestion on the role of endophytes and rhizobacteria in mitigating the drought stress in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought stress (DS) is one of the most destructive abiotic stresses that negatively affects plant growth, and yield. The intensity of DS is continuously increasing due rapid of water sources, less rainfall, and an increase in global warming. The world's population is increasing at an alarming rate which needs a substantial increase in crop production to meet global food needs. Therefore, in this context, we must have to increase crop production in the scenarios of rapid climate change and increasing intensity of abiotic stresses. Globally, different measures are used to mitigate the adverse impacts of DS, recently biochar (BC) has emerged as an excellent soil amendment to mitigate the toxic effects of DS and improve crop production. The application maintains membrane integrity, plant water relations, nutrient homeostasis, photosynthetic performance, hormonal balance and osmolytes accumulation, and gene expression thereby improving plant performance under DS. Moreover, BC application under DS also improves soil organic matter, water holding capacity, soil structure stability, and activity of beneficial microbes which can improve the plant performance under DS. In the present review different mechanisms through which BC mitigates the adverse impacts of DS on plants are discussed. This review provides new suggestions on the role of BC in mitigating the adverse impacts of DS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is the important and strategic cereal crop for the majority of world's populations. It is significant staple food of about two billion people. In next few years, world demand for wheat is expected to be 40 percent higher than that of its level today. Keeping in view the importance of the crop research work was conducted in the laboratory of Plant Breeding and Molecular Genetics, University of Poonch Rawalakot, AJK, Pakistan. The aim of the research was to find out the genetic diversity of different wheat lines. In the experiment, 50 different lines of wheat species (Triticum aestivum L.) was used to detect genetic diversity by utilizing Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis and biochemical analysis. On the basis of biochemical analysis lines 3111 and 3123 was diverse among 50 lines for antioxidant activity by using DPPH radical and 3135 and 3139 for phenolic contents and for flavonoid 3148 and 3107 was found more promising. Molecular characterization by SDS PAGE showed diversity in three wheat lines 3136, 3138 and 3110. These wheat lines could be our potential lines for future wheat improvement program as they were also promising regarding to the high yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The (2 + 1)‐dimensional asymmetric Nizhnik–Novikov–Veselov (ANNV) equation describes an incompressible fluid such as waves with weakly nonlinear restoring forces, long internal waves in a density‐stratified ocean, or acoustic waves on a crystal lattice. In this paper, we construct a new kind of solutions doubly localized in both time and space, that is, a rogue lump wave, of the ANNV equation using the binary Darboux transformation (BDT). This solution is expressed by a class of semirational functions, in which lumps appear from one line soliton and then rapidly disappear into another line soliton. Phase parameter rj$r_j$ newly introduced in eigenfunctions plays a vital role in controlling the distinct dynamical behaviors of these rogue lumps. The explicit formulas of the approximate locations and heights of rogue waves, lumps, and line solitons are given by asymptotic analysis. Their collision process is discussed in detail. These results further help us to understand the extreme and transient waves in a variety of physical systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding ultrafast dynamics in the femtosecond timescale plays a pivotal role in fundamental research and technology innovation. Spatiotemporal observation of those events in real‐time requires imaging speeds greater than 1012 frames per second (fps), far beyond the fundamental speed limits of the ubiquitous semiconductor sensor technologies. In addition, a majority of femtosecond events are non‐repeatable or difficult‐to‐repeat since they either work in a highly unstable nonlinear regime or require extreme or rare conditions to initiate. Therefore, the traditional pump‐probe imaging approach fails since it heavily depends on precise event repetition. Single‐shot ultrafast imaging emerges as the only solution; however, existing techniques cannot reach more than 15×1012 fps, and they only record an insufficient number of frames. Compressed ultrafast spectral photography (CUSP) is proposed to overcome these limitations. Here, CUSP's full design space is explored by manipulating the ultrashort optical pulse in the active illumination. Via parameter optimization, an extraordinarily fast frame rate of 219×1012 fps is achieved. This implementation of CUSP is also highly flexible, allowing various combinations of imaging speeds and numbers of frames (several hundred up to 1000) to be readily deployed in diverse scientific studies, such as laser‐induced transient birefringence, self‐focusing, and filaments in dielectric media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1,3,5‐tri‐substituted benzene rings emerged with unique properties has widespread applications in materials, boosting the rapid development of their synthesis. Despite the significance, the direct construction of hetero‐1,3,5‐trisubstituted benzene core was far less‐developed. Herein, we realized a DBU‐mediated isomerization/6‐π electro‐cyclization/oxidative aromatization cascade of sulfonyl‐substituted allenyl ketones under an air atmosphere (DBU=1,8‐diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec‐7‐ene). This versatile protocol featured metal‐free conditions, easy operation, and broad functional group tolerance provides a new avenue for the construction of hetero‐1,3,5‐tri‐substituted benzene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) has been suggested as a potential biomarker of preeclampsia. However, previous studies evaluating circulating GDF-15 in women with preeclampsia showed inconsistent results. A meta-analysis was performed accordingly in this study. Observational studies comparing circulating GDF-15 between women with preeclampsia normal pregnancy were identified by search of electronic databases including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Wanfang, and CNKI. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used for assessing the quality of the studies. A randomized-effect model incorporating the possible between-study heterogeneity was used to pool the results. Eleven observational studies including 498 women with preeclampsia and 2349 women with normal pregnancy contributed to the meta-analysis. Results showed that compared to controls of women with normal pregnancy at least matched for gestational ages, women with preeclampsia had significantly higher circulating GDF-15 at the diagnosis [standard mean difference (SMD): 0.66, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.16 to 1.17, p=0.01, I2=93%]. Subgroup analysis showed consistent results in women with preterm and term preeclampsia in Asian and non-Asian women and in studies with different quality scores, which were not statistically significant between subgroups (p for subgroup difference>0.05). Moreover, a higher level of GDF-15 was also found before the diagnosis in women who subsequently developed preeclampsia than those who did not (SMD: 1.32, 95% CI: 0.45 to 2.18, p=0.003, I2=89%). In conclusion, a higher circulating GDF-15 is observed in women with preeclampsia even before the diagnosis of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. This study aimed to investigatie the feasibility of pretherapeutic CT radiomics-based nomograms to predict the overall survival (OS) of patients with nondistant metastatic Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage C (BCLC-C) hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) undergoing stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT). Methods. A retrospective review of 137 patients with nondistant metastatic BCLC-C HCC who underwent SBRT was made. Radiomics features distilled from pretherapeutic CT images were selected by the method of LASSO regression for radiomics signature construction. Then, the clinical model was constructed based on clinical characteristics. A radiomics nomogram was constructed using the radiomics score (Rad-score) and clinical characteristics to predict post-SBRT OS in BCLC-C HCC patients. An analysis of discriminatory ability and calibration was performed to confirm the efficacy of the radiomics nomogram. Results. In order to construct the radiomic signature, seven significant features were selected. Patients were divided into low-risk (Rad-score < −0.03) and high-risk (Rad-score ≥ −0.03) groups based on the best Rad-score cutoff value. There were statistically significant differences in OS both in the training set (p < 0.0001) and the validation set (p = 0.03) after stratification. The C-indexes of the radiomics nomogram were 0.77 (95% CI: 0.72–0.82) in the training set and 0.71 (95% CI: 0.61–0.81) in the validation set, which outperformed the clinical model and radiomics signature. An AUC of 0.76, 0.79, and 0.84 was reached for 6-, 12-, and 18-month survival predictions, respectively. Conclusions. The predictive nomogram that combines radiomic features with clinical characteristics has great prospects for application in the prediction of post-SBRT OS in nondistant metastatic BCLC-C HCC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Houttuynia cordata Thunb. is a medicinal and edible plant that has been used to treat phlegm, asthma, cough, carbuncle, swelling, and sore in China for thousands of years. Many previous studies have reported the chemical compositions and pharmacological acivities of hydrodistillation extracted Houttuynia volatile oil. However, no scientific studies on the inhibition activity against virulence factors of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) have been published. So this article analyze the chemical compositions of Houttuynia volatile oil, and evaluate the anti-α-hemolysin (Hla) activity of Houttuynia volatile oil, its three compositions (nonanol, α-terpineol, 4-terpineol) and eleven analogues. In addition, inhibition activity of three compositions to the A549 cells infection of S. aureus was evaluated in vitro. The results is thirty-four ion chromatographic peaks with matching degree ≥90% were identified, and main chemical compositions of Houttuynia volatile oil were β-myrcene (24.48%) and β-phellandrene (11.28%). The MIC of lauraldehyde against S. aureus ATCC 29213 was found to be 8 μg/mL, and houttuynin showed the strongest inhibition activity against the six S. aureus strains with the MIC of 64 or 128 μg/mL. Besides, growth curve analysis revealed the non-bactericidal activity of nonanol, α-terpilenol, and 4-terpineol at sub-MIC. The result of anti-virulence study demonstrated that dodecanol, undecanol, and decanol showed the strongest anti-Hla activity by significantly inhibiting hemolysis of rabbit blood. Nonanol, α-terpilenol, and 4-terpineol can obviously protect A549 cells from α-Hla-mediated injury at 8, 16, and 32 μg/mL in vitro, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calmodulin (CaM) and Calmodulin-like (CML) genes are the primary families of Calcium (Ca2+) sensors which are found to be involved in response to various stresses. Some genes involved in Ca2+ signal transduction have been genome-wide characterized in various species. However, the detailed identification, characterization, and expression profilings of ZmCaM and ZmCML genes in maize remain poorly understood, especially in the response to drought stress. In this study, a total of 7 ZmCaMs and 46 ZmCMLs are identified in maize and unevenly located on 10 chromosomes. ZmCaM and ZmCML proteins are divided into 9 groups. Protein structures analysis shows that the EF-hand motif number of ZmCaMs/ZmCMLs ranges from 3 to 4 and 2 to 4, respectively. A large number of cis-regulatory elements are found in the promoter regions of ZmCaM and ZmCML genes. ZmCaM and ZmCML genes display highly diversified tissue-specific expression patterns. Furthermore, ZmCaM2, ZmCML3, ZmCML6, ZmCML8, ZmCML19, ZmCML24, ZmCML27, ZmCML28, ZmCML36, ZmCML39, and ZmCML40 are induced significantly under drought stress through RNA-seq data and RT-qPCR. Taken together, these results will help to understand the critical roles of ZmCaM and ZmCML genes played in drought resistance and provide valuable candidate genes that could be used to develop drought-resistant maize. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we study the estimation of the mixing proportions and component density functions for a nonparametric multivariate mixture model that satisfies the condition of identifiability. We propose a new estimation method which combines the advantages of the matrix simultaneous diagonalization method and the basis method. The consistency of the estimator is proved and its convergence rate is derived. Simulations are conducted to evaluate the performance of the proposed method. The method is also applied to the US communities and crime data set. Numerical simulations and real data analysis show the good performance with low computational cost of the new method in the estimation for the multivariate mixture models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The specific mechanism by which phosphorus affects nodule nitrogen fixation and nitrogen absorption in soybeans remains inconclusive. To further quantitatively analyze the effect of phosphorus on nodule nitrogen fixation and nitrogen accumulation in soybeans, this experiment was carried out under sand culture conditions. The experiment consisted of six phosphorus supply levels (1 mg/L, 11 mg/L, 21 mg/L, 31 mg/L, 41 mg/L, 51 mg/L). The acetylene reduction method and 15N tracer method (50 mg/L (NH4)2SO4) were used to determine and analyze the nodule growth status, nodule nitrogenase activity, nitrogen content, and nodule nitrogen fixation rate at initial flowering (R1 stage), initial pod (R3 stage), seed filling (R5 stage) and maturity stages (R8 stage). The results are described as follows: 1. The nitrogen fixation of soybean nodules at different growth stages has different requirements for phosphorus supply levels. The initial flowering stage and seed-filling stage were 31 mg/L–41 mg/L, and the initial pod stage was 51 mg/L. 2. The nitrogen source in different parts of soybean showed different trends with different growth periods and phosphorus supply concentrations. Among them, from the initial flowering stage to the seed filling stage, the main body of the nitrogen supply of soybean shoots in the low phosphorus treatment (1 mg/L–31 mg/L) gradually changed from fertilizer nitrogen to nodule nitrogen fixation, while the main body of the nitrogen supply of soybean shoots in the high phosphorus treatment (41 mg/L–51 mg/L) always showed nodule nitrogen fixation and was transformed into fertilizer nitrogen at the mature stage. The main nitrogen supply to the roots of soybean at different levels of phosphorus supply from the initial flowering to the initial pods and maturity stage was fertilizer nitrogen, and the main nitrogen supply at the seed filling stage was nodule nitrogen fixation. The nitrogen supply to the main body of soybean nodules was constantly nodule nitrogen fixation. 3. Different phosphorus supply levels significantly affected the nitrogen fixation of soybean nodules (R2 ≥ 0.803), and both the acetylene reduction method and the 15N tracer method could be used to determine the nitrogen fixation capacity of soybean nodules. This study indicated the optimal phosphorus supply level of nodules in different growth stages of soybean and clarified the main body of phosphorus supply in different parts of soybean at different growth stages, which pointed out the direction for further improving the utilization efficiency of soybean nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All-polymer solar cells (all-PSCs) are organic solar cells in which both the electron donor and the acceptor are polymers and are considered more promising in large-scale production. Thanks to the polymerizing small molecule acceptor strategy, the power conversion efficiency of all-PSCs has ushered in a leap in recent years. However, due to the electrical properties of polymerized small-molecule acceptors (PSMAs), the FF of the devices is generally not high. The typical electron transport material widely used in these devices is PNDIT-F3N, and it is a common strategy to improve the device fill factor (FF) through interface engineering. This work improves the efficiency of all-polymer solar cells through interfacial layer engineering. Using PDINN as the electron transport layer, we boost the FF of the devices from 69.21% to 72.05% and the power conversion efficiency (PCE) from 15.47% to 16.41%. This is the highest efficiency for a PY-IT-based binary all-polymer solar cell. This improvement is demonstrated in different all-polymer material systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All-polymer solar cells (All-PSCs), whose electron donor and acceptors are both polymeric materials, have attracted great research attention in the past few years. However, most all-PSC devices with top-of-the-line efficiencies are processed from chloroform. In this work, we apply the sequential processing (SqP) method to fabricate All-PSCs from an aromatic hydrocarbon solvent, toluene, and obtain efficiencies up to 17.0%. By conducting a series of characterizations on our films and devices, we demonstrate that the preparation of SqP devices using toluene can effectively reduce carrier recombination, enhance carrier mobility and promote the fill factor of the device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Contribution of ozone and •OH to dioxolanes removal during ozonation was evaluated. • Reaction rate constants of dioxolanes with ozone and •OH were determined. • A kinetic model well simulated the observed ozonation of dioxolanes under various conditions. • Transformation pathways and potential environment risks of 1,3-D and 2-M-1,3-D during ozonation were analyzed. Dioxolanes, which are structural analogs to dioxane, are emerging persistent mobile organic contaminants. These compounds are frequently detected in water and wastewater, but their removal has been rarely addressed in the literature. This work systematically investigated the ozonation of two representative dioxolanes, i.e., 1,3-dioxolane (1,3-D) and 2-methyl-1,3-dioxolane (2-M-1,3-D). The degradation rates of two dioxolanes exhibited a positive correlation with both ozone dosage and solution pH increment. Specifically, direct ozone oxidation dominates the degradation of dioxolanes at slightly acidic pH, while hydroxyl radical (•OH) becomes the primary oxidant under weak alkaline condition. The second-order reaction rate constants of ozone with 1,3-D and 2-M-1,3-D were determined to be 5.48 and 8.00 M−1s−1, respectively. The reaction rate constants with •OH were 9 orders of magnitude higher, reaching (3.75-8.18) × 109 and (2.65-5.78) × 109 M−1s−1 for 1,3-D and 2-M-1,3-D, respectively. A kinetic model involving 112 reactions well simulated the degradation of 1,3-D and 2-M-1,3-D under various conditions accordingly. Eight transformation products were identified totally, and seven of them (i.e., formic acid, acetic acid, oxalic acid, formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, glyoxylic acid, and 1,2-ethanediol monoacetate) were quantified. The observed evolution of these identified degradation products concludes that the degradation of 1,3-D and 2-M-1,3-D during ozonation mainly involves H-abstraction, dimerization, ring opening, disproportionation, and hydrolysis. This work not only provides essential kinetic data of dioxolanes, but also sheds light on their potential transformation mechanisms and aquatic environment risks during ozonation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy, as an adoptive immunotherapy, is playing an increasingly important role in the treatment of malignant tumors. CAR-T cells are referred to as "living drugs" as they not only target tumor cells directly, but also induce long-term immune memory that has the potential to provide long-lasting protection. CD19.CAR-T cells have achieved complete response rates of over 90 % for acute lymphoblastic leukemia and over 60 % for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. However, the response rate of CAR-T cells in the treatment of solid tumors remains extremely low and the side effects potentially severe. In this review, we discuss the limitations that the solid tumor microenvironment poses for CAR-T application and the solutions that are being developed to address these limitations, in the hope that in the near future, CAR-T cell therapy for solid tumors can attain the same success rates as are now being seen clinically for hematological malignancies. • The barriers of CAR-T in the treatment of solid tumors were discussed in detail. • The structure of CAR was analyzed to enhance the effect and reduce side effect. • Combined therapies were described in order to accelerate the clinical transformation of CAR-T for solid tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Late-life depression (LLD) is a highly prevalent mood disorder occurring in older adults and is frequently accompanied by cognitive impairment (CI). Studies have shown that LLD may increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the heterogeneity of presentation of geriatric depression suggests that multiple biological mechanisms may underlie it. Current biological research on LLD progression incorporates machine learning that combines neuroimaging data with clinical observations. There are few studies on incident cognitive diagnostic outcomes in LLD based on structural MRI (sMRI). In this paper, we describe the development of a hybrid representation learning (HRL) framework for predicting cognitive diagnosis over 5 years based on T1-weighted sMRI data. Specifically, we first extract prediction-oriented MRI features via a deep neural network, and then integrate them with handcrafted MRI features via a Transformer encoder for cognitive diagnosis prediction. Two tasks are investigated in this work, including (1) identifying cognitively normal subjects with LLD and never-depressed older healthy subjects, and (2) identifying LLD subjects who developed CI (or even AD) and those who stayed cognitively normal over five years. We validate the proposed HRL on 294 subjects with T1-weighted MRIs from two clinically harmonized studies. Experimental results suggest that the HRL outperforms several classical machine learning and state-of-the-art deep learning methods in LLD identification and prediction tasks. • A Hybrid Representation Learning (HRL) framework is developed for longitudinal diagnostic discrimination in late life depression (LLD) using T1-weighted MRI. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first attempt of predicting cognitive diagnosis over 5 years and finding related potential MRI biomarkers. • The HRL integrates data-driven and handcrafted MRI features into a unified framework. A feature fusion module is designed to fuse two types of features more effectively for better prediction. • The feature maps extracted by HRL help to identify potential MRI biomarkers for the assessment of cognitive change in LLD subjects, thus helping to improve clinical diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the crucial condition to achieve rational solutions of the multi‐component nonlinear Schrödinger equation is proposed by introducing two nilpotent Lax matrices. Taking the series multisections of the vector eigenfunction as a set of fundamental eigenfunctions, an explicit formula of the nth‐order rational solution is obtained by the degenerate Darboux transformation, which is used to generate some new patterns of rogue waves. A conjecture about the degree of the nth‐order rogue waves is summarized. This conjecture also holds for rogue waves of the multi‐component complex modified Korteweg–de Vries equation. Finally, the semi‐rational solutions of the Manakov system are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition from classical physics to quantum mechanics has been mysterious. Here, we mathematically derive the space-independent von Neumann equation for electron spin from the classical Bloch equation. Subsequently, the space-independent Schrödinger–Pauli equation is derived in both the quantum mechanical and recently developed co-quantum dynamic frameworks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cross-border logistics is an important support for the rapid development of cross-border e-commerce. This paper expounds cross-border e-commerce and its development status and explores the problems existing in cross-border e-commerce logistics distribution, such as high cost, low level of information, e-commerce credit evaluation system being not perfect, and professional personnel shortage. Advanced cloud distribution mode is introduced into cross-border e-commerce logistics, and cloud logistics distribution network model is built using the precise center-of-gravity method. Based on the cloud distribution, the paper puts forward some suggestions for the development of cross-border logistics, such as optimizing the path to reduce transshipment links, optimizing the level of logistics informatization, improving the market supervision system and credit evaluation mechanism, and improving the talent training mechanism, in order to improve the stability and security of cross-border logistics distribution, reduce logistics costs, and improve service quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ferrimagnetic mixed-spin ternary nanoisland models with two and three layer structures were set up by the Ising model with spin quantum numbers 1, 3/2 and 1/2. Using the transfer matrix method, we got the magnetization, magnetic susceptibility and ground-state diagram exactly. The results show that the magnetic susceptibility of nanoisland with two-layer structure shows antiferromagnetic behavior, while that of nanoisland with three-layer structure shows antiferromagnetic or ferromagnetic behavior in different parameter areas. The antiferromagnetic behavior shows that the net spin of the ground-state system is zero. The ferromagnetic behavior shows that the magnetic susceptibility diverges at zero temperature, the Curie constant is proportional to the square of the net spin in the ground-state configuration of spins. The magnetization of the three-layer structure in an external magnetic field shows superparamagnetic behavior with many magnetization plateaus. It can be inferred that there should be similar results for finite Ising nanosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of high‑oxygen-modified atmospheric packaging (HOMAP) on aroma changes in fresh-cut broccoli during storage and to explore its regulatory mechanisms. The results showed that HOMAP reduced the levels of undesirable aroma substances hexanoic acid, isobutyric acid, cyclopentanone and increased glucosinolate accumulation by inhibiting the expression of arogenate/prephenate dehydratase (ADT), bifunctional aspartate aminotransferase and glutamate/aspartate-prephenate aminotransferase (PAT), thiosulfate/3-mercaptopyruvate Transferase (TST) to reduce the odor of fresh-cut broccoli. HOMAP inhibited the expression of respiratory metabolism related genes 6-phosphate fructokinase 1 (PFK), pyruvate kinase (PK), and NADH-ubiquinone oxidoreductase chain 6 (ND6). In HOMAP group, the low expression of phospholipase C (PLC), phospholipase A1 (PLA1), linoleate 9S-lipoxygenase 1 (LOX1) related to lipid metabolism and the high expression of naringenin 3-dioxygenase (F3H), trans-4-Hydroxycinnamate (C4H), glutaredoxin 3 (GRX3) , and thioredoxin 1 (TrX1) in the antioxidant system maintained membrane stability while reducing the occurrence of membrane lipid peroxidation. [Display omitted] • With the extended storage time, HOMAP could better maintain the fresh-cut broccoli flavor. • HOMAP inhibited the respiratory metabolism of fresh-cut broccoli. • HOMAP improves antioxidant capacity by promoting the accumulation of phenols. • HOMAP reduced the occurrence of membrane peroxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Astragaloside core–shell nanofibers with dual release properties were constructed by coaxial electrospinning. • Coaxial astragaloside/PVP/PLA nanofiber functional dressing had excellent hydrophilicity, antioxidant properties and mechanical strength. • Coaxial astragaloside/PVP/PLA nanofiber functional dressing had excellent biocompatibility and promotes cell proliferation, adhesion and migration. • Coaxial astragaloside/PVP/PLA nanofiber functional dressing achieved dual release of astragaloside through the core–shell structure, thereby accelerating wound healing. Diabetic wound is often a chronic wound with complex healing process and long healing time. It is evident that conventional dressings are inadequate in promoting the healing of diabetic wounds. In this study, a novel nanofiber dressing, produced through coaxial electrostatic spinning technology, was created to facilitate the healing of diabetic chronic wounds. This dressing was composed of Astragaloside (AS), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and polylactic acid (PLA). The morphology of the nanofiber dressing was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Confirmation of the core–shell structure was done with the help of transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). A pharmacodynamic study was conducted both in vivo and in vitro. It was shown that the nanofibers were approximately 604.83 ± 127.96 nm and with a core–shell structure. Additionally, in vitro drug release experiments revealed that the coaxial AS/PVP/PLA nanofiber functional dressings had a first rapid and then slow release property. Antioxidant activity experiment showed that the free radical scavenging rate of Astragaloside-loaded nanofibers reached 61 %. Mechanical tests also indicated that the nanofibers had an elastic modulus of 38.37 ± 1.81 MPa. Coaxial AS/PVP/PLA nanofiber functional dressings had good antimicrobial activity, and its diameter of the circle of inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus was 17.17 ± 2.04 mm, and its diameter of the circle of inhibition against Escherichia coli was 6.80 ± 0.78 mm. In addition, the findings of in vitro cellular tests showed that coaxial AS/PVP/PLA nanofiber functional dressings could promote the multiplication, adhesion and the migration ability of L929 fibroblasts with better biocompatibility. Finally, the wound healing rate of diabetic rats in the coaxial AS/PVP/PLA nanofiber functional dressing group was 96.54 ± 0.29 % on day 14. Consequently, the coaxial AS/PVP/PLA nanofiber functional dressings prepared by coaxial electrostatic spinning technique had satisfactory morphology, met the requirements of performance, and had the potential to be developed as a dressing for improving diabetic chronic wound healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Refractory ICMs were effectively removed through a novel oxidation pathway. • The oxidation is not related to traditional radicals, ROS, or high valent metals. • Inner-sphere surface-bound PDS abstracts electrons from the ICM probe directly. • Less degradation products were produced than that of traditional radical oxidation. Peroxydisulfate (PDS) is an appealing oxidant to eliminate water pollutants due to the relatively low cost and high stability compared with other peroxides. It needs to be activated for application, with non-radical producing processes being specifically preferred to obtain high selectivity and to reduce useless consumption of active species by ubiquitous chloride ions. Unfortunately, most of the current non-radical oxidation processes of PDS are ineffective toward inert pollutants. Here we report a novel non-radical PDS oxidation process initiated by CuO-MgO composites toward effective removing refractory iodinated contrast media compounds (ICMs). The optimized CuO-MgO composite was 18-times more efficient than CuO in activating PDS to remove iopamidol, a typical refractory ICM, and exhibited much lower Cu2+ leaching. Interestingly, the enhanced oxidation is not related to radicals, reactive oxygen species (ROS), or high valent Cu(III). We revealed with a series of surface characterization and density functional theory calculation that the CuO-MgO composite has Cu2+-Mg2+ heterojunctions of high electron density, thus is more active than CuO alone for PDS activation. PDS interacted with the composite surface in inner-sphere mode; consequently, the surface-bound PDS abstracted electrons directly from inert pollutants. Due to the lower oxidation power than traditional radicals, PDS/CuO-MgO oxidation of the ICM probe was insensitive to chloride and produced less hydroxyl- and nitro- degradation products. This research highlights that Cu2+-Mg2+ heterojunctions can play an important role in enhancing the non-radical and non-ROS oxidation capability of PDS toward inert pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Cancer immunotherapy has shown promise in treating various malignancies. However, the presence of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) triggered by M2 tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and the limited tumor cell antigenicity have hindered its broader application. To address these challenges, we developed DOX/R837@ManL, a liposome loaded with imiquimod (R837) and doxorubicin (DOX), modified with mannose-polyethylene glycol (Man-PEG). DOX/R837@ManL employed a mannose receptor (MRC1)-mediated targeting strategy, allowing it to accumulate selectively at M2 Tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) and tumor sites. R837, an immune adjuvant, promoted the conversion of immunosuppressive M2 TAMs into immunostimulatory M1 TAMs, and reshaped the immunosuppressive TME. Simultaneously, DOX release induced immunogenic cell death (ICD) in tumor cells and enhanced tumor cell antigenicity by promoting dendritic cells (DCs) maturation. Through targeted delivery, the synergistic action of R837 and DOX activated innate immunity and coordinated adaptive immunity, enhancing immunotherapy efficacy. In vivo experiments have demonstrated that DOX/R837@ManL effectively eliminated primary tumors and lung metastases, while also preventing tumor recurrence post-surgery. These findings highlighted the potential of DOX/R837@ManL as a promising strategy for cancer immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cohesin loader nipped‐B‐like protein (Nipbl) is increasingly recognized for its important role in development and cancer. Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS), mostly caused by heterozygous mutations of Nipbl, is an autosomal dominant disease characterized by multiorgan malformations. However, the regulatory role and underlying mechanism of Nipbl in skeletal development remain largely elusive. In this study, we constructed a Nipbl‐a Cas9‐knockout (KO) zebrafish, which displayed severe retardation of global growth and skeletal development. Deficiency of Nipbl remarkably compromised cell growth and survival, and osteogenic differentiation of mammalian osteoblast precursors. Furthermore, Nipbl depletion impaired the cell cycle process, and caused DNA damage accumulation and cellular senescence. In addition, nucleolar fibrillarin expression, global rRNA biogenesis, and protein translation were defective in the Nipbl‐depleted osteoblast precursors. Interestingly, an integrated stress response inhibitor (ISRIB), partially rescued Nipbl depletion‐induced cellular defects in proliferation and apoptosis, osteogenesis, and nucleolar function. Simultaneously, we performed transcriptome analysis of Nipbl deficiency on human neural crest cells and mouse embryonic fibroblasts in combination with Nipbl ChIP‐Seq. We found that Nipbl deficiency caused thousands of differentially expressed genes including some important genes in bone and cartilage development. In conclusion, Nipbl deficiency compromised skeleton development through impairing osteoblast precursor cell proliferation and survival, and osteogenic differentiation, and also disturbing the expression of some osteogenesis‐regulatory genes. Our study elucidated that Nipbl played a pivotal role in skeleton development, and supported the fact that treatment of ISRIB may provide an early intervention strategy to alleviate the bone dysplasia of CdLS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the two-dimensional nano-contact problem with the surface effect is systematically investigated based on Chen–Yao's surface elastic theory. The Fourier integral transform method is adopted to derive the contact stress and displacement fields of a half-space subjected to a normal triangle distribution force. The theoretical result shows that the surface energy density of the indented bulk substrate, as only one additional parameter, serves as an important factor to influence the contact properties in contrast to the classical contact models. The numerical show that only when the ratio of the contact width to the volume surface energy density to the shear modulus is equal, the difference between the theoretical prediction of surface effect and the classical contact solution without surface effect will be significant. This result indicates that when the surface effect is considered and the surface effect parameter is positive, the semi-infinite substrate will harden, which should be helpful for better understanding the size-dependent mechanisms of surface energy density at nanoscale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sharpbelly Hemiculter leucisculus (Basilewski, 1855) is a small, widespread, and native cyprinid fish with prominent habitat suitability and high invasive potential and is becoming the dominant species in freshwater ecosystems under intensified environmental disturbances. But how H. leucisculus acclimates to extremely heterogeneous environments remains unclear. In current study, the genetic structure of H. leucisculus was analyzed using Bayesian phylogenetic inference, haplotype network, and STRUCTURE base on cytb gene across 18 populations spanning 20 degrees of latitude and 18 degrees of longitude in China. The morphological diversification of body size and shape for H. leucisculus along the climate gradient was studied. The results showed that the 18 H. leucisculus populations were divided into 3 clusters: one cluster mainly from Huanghe River Basin, another cluster mainly from Yangzi River Basin, and H cluster containing Hainan and Beihai populations. The fish from southern populations were deeper bodied while individuals from northern populations were more slender. Inland individuals were more streamlined while coastal individuals were of deeper body. The partial Mantel test predicts that the potential mechanism underlining the intraspecies morphological diversification along climate gradients is primarily the divergent selection pressures among different environments, while genetic variation had less contribution to morphological differentiation. The formation of the Nanling Mountain Range could drive genetic differentiation between Beihai population and those from Yangzi River Basin. The present results highlight strong selective pressures of climate on widespread species and enrich morphological differentiation basis of acclimation for species with high habitat suitability and invasive potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Triangular silver(I) and copper(I) 3,5-diethyl-4-nitropyrazolates (abbreviated as [Ag(denpz)]3 or Ag3pz3, and [Cu(denpz)]3 or Cu3pz3), as well as their adducts with dibenzothiophene (DBT), 4,6-dimethyldibenzothiophene (DMDBT) and benzothiophene (BT), have been prepared and characterized by a series of techniques. X-ray analyses show that these adducts are stabilized by M⋯S, M⋯C contacts and π⋯π stacking interactions. NMR measurements and theoretical calculations indicate that the intensity of interaction between the metal complexes and dibenzothiophenes follows the trend: Ag3pz3–DMDBT > Ag3pz3–DBT > Cu3pz3–DMDBT > Cu3pz3–DBT, which can be understood on the basis of a weak interaction between π-acid (Ag3pz3 or Cu3pz3) and π-base (DBT/DMDBT). Both complexes show good adsorptive ability and reusability toward the removal of DBT and DMDBT from model oil (n-octane), with the maximum adsorption capacity at room temperature being 39 mg S (DMDBT) per g Cu3pz3, 34 mg S (DMDBT) per g Ag3pz3, 40 mg S (DBT) per g Cu3pz3, 36 mg S (DBT) per g Ag3pz3, respectively. Compared to Ag3pz3, Cu3pz3 exhibits higher adsorptive capacities for DBT/DMDBT, which has been attributed to its lower molecular mass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A review of the current status of rainfall erosivity development is provided. • The accurate estimation of rainfall erosivity poses a challenge to quantitative analysis of soil erosion. • The differences in climate and environmental conditions result in variations in the estimated rainfall erosivity models. • The characteristics of rainfall itself influence the development of standards for rainfall erosion. • Rainfall erosivity can be estimated using either kinetic energy models or simplified estimation models. Rainfall erosivity (R) is commonly used to measure water and soil loss by representing the degree of rainfall-induced soil erosion. However, methods for calculating rainfall erosivity vary significantly regarding regional climatic and precipitation characteristics. How to quantitatively illustrate rainfall erosivity remains a key issue for soil erosion monitoring. In this paper, we summarize the basic principles in calculating rainfall erosivity, as well as the relationships and differences among mainstream methods. By referring to experiences gained from previous studies, this paper aims to better summarize and analyze the current rainfall erosivity estimation models and space–time distribution, so as to avoid the confused use of each estimation model as well as to proposes future researches. Currently, there is a widespread utilization of simple algorithms for rainfall erosivity estimation, and statistical methods like machine learning are also seen in such applications. Besides, while many have proposed to quantify local-scale rainfall erosivity, significant limitations are recognized for large-scale estimations. Future researches that emerge recently developed technologies such as remote sensing are expected to further improve rainfall erosivity estimation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides a least squares regression estimation of the tail index for long memory processes where the innovations are α\documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\usepackage{amsmath}\usepackage{wasysym}\usepackage{amsfonts}\usepackage{amssymb}\usepackage{amsbsy}\usepackage{mathrsfs}\usepackage{upgreek}\setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt}\begin{document}$$\alpha $$\end{document}-stable random sequences. The estimate is based on the property of the characteristic function of the process near the origin. The asymptotics of the estimator are obtained by choosing suitable regression samples with the help of the properties of the α\documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\usepackage{amsmath}\usepackage{wasysym}\usepackage{amsfonts}\usepackage{amssymb}\usepackage{amsbsy}\usepackage{mathrsfs}\usepackage{upgreek}\setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt}\begin{document}$$\alpha $$\end{document}-stable distribution. The numerical simulation and an empirical analysis of financial market data are conducted to assess the finite sample performance of the proposed estimator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Micropatterned tactile sensors exhibited excellent sensitivity. • High-precision flexible micropatterned tactile sensors for glove. • Recognizing diverse objects through a machine learning method. • A personal tactile sensing gloves for salvager rescuing in disaster. Tactile sensing ability of human hands were the unique critical way to feel diverse objects and infer material properties which remains challenging tasks for intelligent personal protective glove, especially for salvager rescuing in disaster in some extreme environment such as earthquake, fire, avalanche or the night without light. Tactile maps of hands have been precisely recorded and analyzed by smart gloves with film-based sensor arrays, however, the comfortable and breathable performance of film-decorated gloves can't be satisfied with long wearing time. Herein, a flexible knitted-based protective tactile sensing glove with low cost (about US$1.383) is fabricated by seamlessly stitching tiny micro-patterned (400 μm) sensors through 3D two-photon femtosecond laser direct writing strategy. The proposed tactile sensors exhibited a tunable sensing detection (0.002 kPa ∼ 300 kPa) and tunable sensitivities (0.011 kPa−1 ∼ 0.082 kPa−1). Our protective tactile sensing gloves are developed by distributing numbers of tiny tactile sensors on the glove to recognize diverse objects enabled by learning the signatures through an artificial neural network of the fully connect neural network, which can work in air, water, low temperature (−40 °C) and high temperature (116 °C) for protecting hands. Additionally, demonstrations of the protective tactile sensing glove for recognizing different hardness and different shape objects which can be used for salvager rescuing in disaster. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A numerical model of a dual-pass bismuth-doped fiber amplifier is established. • By analyzing the loss of the reflection module of the bismuth-doped fiber amplifier in a dual-pass configuration versus the gain of the amplifier, a reflector-based signal and pump dual-pass bismuth-doped fiber amplifier is designed. • The amplifier experimentally obtained a maximum net gain of 41.8 dB at 1325 nm with a noise figure of 5.8 dB. Due to the tendency of data traffic approaching the current capacity limit, the development of a high-performance o-band amplifier has become an important topic. In this paper, we construct a model of the dual-pass BDFA and compare it with the single-pass BDFA. In addition, the effect of the loss of the reflected part of the dual-pass structure on the gain is analyzed by numerical simulation. Utilizing the theory to guide the experiment, a reflector-based signal and pump dual-pass O-band bismuth-doped phosphosilicate fiber amplifier is proposed. The amplifier experimentally obtained a maximum net gain of 41.8 dB at 1325 nm with a noise figure (NF) of 5.8 dB under the total pump power of 1050 mW and the input signal power of −34 dBm. The 3 dB saturation output signal power of the BDFA is 16.8 dBm at a total pump power of 1050 mW, at which point the signal input power is –22 dBm and the NF is 6.6 dB. The gain coefficient is 0.064 dB/mW at the input signal power of −30 dBm. The measured 3 dB and 10 dB net gain bandwidths of this amplifier are 30 nm (1312–1342 nm) and 58 nm (1300–1358 nm), respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A gelation-polymerization process is developed to fabricate AlN nanoparticles using boehmite sol, phenol, and formaldehyde as the starting materials. This process is characterized by simultaneously gelation and polymerization reactions to form two interactive three-dimensional networks in the same reactor. The gelation forms boehmite gel from the sol, while polymerization yields phenol-formaldehyde resin (PF). The interactive networks enable the formation of AlN nanoparticles entirely at 1300 °C from alumina and carbon. Meanwhile, the PF network prevents the crystalline of boehmite, increases the temperature for the dehydration reaction from boehmite to γ-alumina, and keeps the γ-alumina phase stable at temperature up to 1200 °C. The AlN nanoparticles are sintered to AlN ceramics without any sintering additives, and the thermal conductivity is 105 W m−1 k−1 for the ceramic with 92% relative density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death worldwide. Increasing evidence showed that circular RNAs (circRNAs) played critical roles in the progression of CRC. However, the effects and underlying mechanisms of circ_0000512 in CRC progression remain unclear. Methods: The expression levels of circ_0000512, microRNA-296-5p (miR-296-5p) and runt-related transcription factor 1 (RUNX1) were analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Cell viability, colony formation, cell cycle distribution and cell apoptosis were detected by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, colony formation assay and flow cytometry analysis, respectively. Western blot assay was utilized to measure the protein expression of Cyclin D1, Cleaved Caspase-3 and RUNX1. The interaction between miR-296-5p and circ_0000512 or RUNX1 was predicted by starBase and verified by dual-luciferase reporter assay, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay and RNA pull-down assay. The mice xenograft model was established to explore the function of circ_0000512 in vivo. Results: The expression of circ_0000512 was increased in CRC tissues and cells. Knockdown of circ_0000512 suppressed cell viability and colony formation and arrested the cells at the G0/G1 phase while it accelerated apoptosis in CRC cells. Mechanistically, circ_0000512 could increase RUNX1 expression by acting as a molecular sponge of miR-296-5p in CRC cells. Furthermore, miR-296-5p downregulation or RUNX1 overexpression reversed the anti-proliferation and pro-apoptosis effects caused by circ_0000512 knockdown in CRC cells. In addition, circ_0000512 interference inhibited tumor growth by upregulating miR-296-5p and downregulating RUNX1 in vivo. Conclusion: Knockdown of circ_0000512 inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in CRC cell by regulating miR-296-5p/RUNX1 axis, which might provide a potential therapeutic target for CRC treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexible, stretchable and sensitive textile-based sensors play important roles in a wide variety of artificial intelligence because of its seamless integration with clothing and good comfort. Herein, MXene sensing layer is deposited on the surface of springlike helical core-sheath polyester yarns thanks to the capillarity effect and its intrinsic hydrophilic ability, and the resultant strain sensor and humidity sensor exhibit wide detection range from 0.3 to 120% strain and 30–100% relative humidity (RH) detection, owing to elastic core-sheath structures. The strain sensor shows excellent reproducibility (over 10000 cycles) and fast response time (120 ms). The core-sheath yarn sensor can detect various human motions such as walking, bending and twisting as well as physiological signal (pulse), which have great potential in real-time precise medicine and health care. The yarn sensor could also be an excellent humidity sensor because of the high specific area structure of yarn and intrinsic hydrophilic properties of MXene sensing layer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although it is relatively straightforward to cryopreserve living isolated chondrocytes, at the present time there is no satisfactory method to preserve surgical grafts between the time of procurement or manufacture and actual use. In earlier papers we have established that the cryoprotectants dimethyl sulphoxide or propylene glycol do penetrate into this tissue very rapidly. Chondrocytes are not unusually susceptible to osmotic stress; in fact they appear to be particularly resistant. It appears that damage is associated with the formation of ice per se, even at cooling rates that are optimal for the cryopreservation of isolated chondrocytes. We then showed that current methods of cartilage cryopreservation involve the nucleation and growth of ice crystals within the chondrons rather than ice being restricted to the surrounding acellular matrix. This finding established the need to avoid the crystallization of ice—in other words, vitrification. Song and his colleagues have published a vitrification method that is based on the use of one of Fahy's vitrification formulations. We confirmed the effectiveness of this method but found it to be very dependent on ultra rapid warming. However, we were able to develop a 'liquidus-tracking' method that completely avoids the crystallization of ice and does not require rapid warming. The ability of cartilage preserved in this way to incorporate sulphate into newly synthesized glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) approached 70% of that of fresh control cartilage. In this method the rates of cooling and warming can be very low, which is essential for any method that is to be used in Tissue Banks to process the bulky grafts that are required by orthopaedic surgeons. Work is continuing to refine this method for Tissue Bank use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Oilseed rape (Brassica napus) is the third largest source of vegetable oil globally. In addition to food uses, there are industrial applications that exploit the ability of the species to accumulate the very‐long‐chain fatty acid (VLCFA) erucic acid in its seed oil, controlled by orthologues of FATTY ACID ELONGASE 1 (Bna.FAE1.A8 and Bna.FAE1.C3). The proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in rapeseed oil is predicted to affect its thermal stability and is controlled by orthologues of FATTY ACID DESATURASE 2, particularly Bna.FAD2.C5. Our aim was to develop rapeseed lines combining high erucic and low PUFA characters and to assess the impact on thermal stability of the oil they produce. The new type of rapeseed oil (high erucic low polyunsaturate; HELP) contained a substantially greater proportion of erucic acid (54%) compared with high erucic rapeseed oil (46%). Although the total VLCFA content was greater in oil from HELP lines (64%) than from high erucic rapeseed (57%), analysis of triacylglycerol composition showed negligible incorporation of VLCFAs into the sn‐2 position. Rancimat analysis showed that the thermal stability of rapeseed oil was improved greatly as a consequence of reduction of PUFA content, from 3.8 and 4.2 h in conventional low erucic and high erucic rapeseed oils, respectively, to 11.3 and 16.4 h in high oleic low PUFA (HOLP) and HELP oils, respectively. Our results demonstrate that engineering of the lipid biosynthetic pathway of rapeseed, using traditional approaches, enables the production of renewable industrial oils with novel composition and properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tumor mutational burden (TMB) is a potential biomarker for immune checkpoint therapy and prognosis. The impact of TMB on clinical outcomes and the correlation coefficient between exome sequencing and targeted sequencing in glioma have not yet been explored.Methods: Somatic mutations in the coding regions of 897 primary gliomas and the clinical and RNA-seq data of 654 patients in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database were analyzed as a training set, while another 286 patients in the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) database were used for validation. Descriptive and correlational analyses were conducted with TMB. Enrichment map analysis and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were also performed.Results: TMB was higher for the group of mutant genes that are frequently mutated in glioblastomas (GBMs) and lower for the group of mutant genes that are frequently mutated in lower-grade gliomas (LGGs). Patients with a higher TMB exhibited shorter overall survival. TMB was associated with grade, age, subtype and mutations affecting genomic structure. Moreover, univariate and multivariate analyses showed that TMB was an independent prognostic factor for glioma. The signaling pathways of the cell cycle were enriched in the TMBHigh group. TMB was higher in the mismatch repair (MMR) gene mutant group than in the wild-type group, but the MMR pathway was enriched in the TMBHigh group of gliomas without mutations in classical MMR genes. The correlation between TMBs calculated through exome sequencing and targeted sequencing was moderate, and panel-based TMB was not correlated with prognosis.Conclusions: TMB is associated with poor outcomes in diffuse glioma. The high proliferative activity in the TMBHigh group could account for the shorter survival of these patients. This association was not reflected by a pan-cancer targeted sequencing panel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this manuscript, lysozyme/κ-carrageenan (LYS-CRG) complexes were prepared and used to encapsulate curcumin. The LYS-CRG complexes demonstrate good encapsulation of curcumin (CUR), and the encapsulation efficiency (EE) and loading capacity (LC) reach 96.2% and 2.31%, respectively. The encapsulated CUR has high antioxidant activity, while the thermal stability and photostability of CUR are also increased. The LYS-CRG complexes could effectively improve the storage stability of CUR and increase its retention rate. In simulated gastric fluid, only 17.91% CUR in the CUR-LYS-CRG complex nanoparticles is released in 3 h, while in the simulated intestinal fluid, the CUR release rate quickly reaches 62.56% in 1.5 h. The release rate tends to be stable within 1.5 h to 3 h and the final release rate reaches 67.23%, suggesting that the formation of CUR-LYS-CRG complex nanoparticles does not affect CUR release in the simulated intestinal fluid. • The LYS-CRG complexes have good encapsulation effect on curcumin. • Addition of CUR improves emulsification activity of LYS-CRG complexes. • CUR-LYS-CRG complex nanoparticles enhance the bioavailability of curcumin. • Complex nanoparticles improve antioxidant activity of CUR. • Complex nanoparticles enhance thermal stability and photostability of CUR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]