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Abstract Olfactory cues are considered a new sensory medium that can enhance learning, but the lack of empirical data has hampered their widespread use in educational practice. This requires empirical research to explore the effects of olfactory cues on learning. To address this research need, an experimental research study was conducted among 87 fourth graders from a Chinese elementary school. It explored the innovative design of adding olfactory cues to text materials by examining their effects on retention and schemata construction as learning outcomes, as well as their influence on learners’ cognitive load and learning experience. In this between-subjects design experiment, the experimental group (n = 44) learned text materials with the introduction of olfactory cues, while the control group (n = 43) only learned text materials. After the learning activity, participants were asked to complete the questionnaires, immediate test, and delayed test. The results revealed that the usage of olfactory cues synchronized with text materials can enhance delayed retention, facilitate schemata construction, and improve learner experience without increasing cognitive load. This study confirms the potential of well-designed olfactory cues in educational practice and provides insights for designing and presenting multimedia learning resources.

Abstract Background Sacral screw loosening is a typical complication after internal fixation surgery through the vertebral arch system. Bicortical fixation can successfully prevent screw loosening, and how improving the rate of bicortical fixation is a challenging clinical investigation. Objective To investigate the feasibility of improving the double corticality of sacral screws and the optimal fixation depth to achieve double cortical fixation by combining the torque measurement method with bare hands. Methods Ninety-seven cases of posterior lumbar internal fixation with pedicle root system were included in this study. Based on the tactile feedback of the surgeon indicating the expected penetration of the screw into the contralateral cortex of the sacrum, the screws were further rotated by 180°, 360°, or 720°, categorized into the bicortical 180° group, bicortical 360° group, and bicortical 720° group, respectively. Intraoperatively, the torque during screw insertion was recorded. Postoperatively, the rate of double-cortex engagement was evaluated at 7 days, and screw loosening was assessed at 1 year follow-up. Results The bicortical rates of the 180° group, 360° group, and 720° group were 66.13%, 91.18% and 93.75%, respectively. There were statistically significant differences between the 180° group and both the 360° and 720° groups (P 0.05).The rates of loosening of sacral screws in the 180° group, 360° group, and 720° group were 20.97%, 7.35% and 7.81%, respectively. There were statistically significant differences between the 180° group and both the 360° and 720° groups (P 0.05). The bicortical 360° group achieved a relatively satisfactory rate of dual cortical purchase while maintaining a lower rate of screw loosening. Conclusion Manual insertion of sacral screws with the assistance of a torque measurement device can achieve a relatively satisfactory dual cortical purchase rate while reducing patient hospitalization costs.

Abstract Autonomous vehicles (AVs) present a paradigm shift in addressing conventional parking challenges. Unlike human‐driven vehicles, AVs can strategically park or cruise until summoned by users. Utilizing utility theory, the parking decision‐making processes of AVs users are explored, taking into account constraints related to both cost and time. An agent‐based simulation approach is adopted to construct an AV parking model, reflecting the complex dynamics of the parking decision process in the real world, where each user's choice has a ripple effect on traffic conditions, consequently affecting the feasible options for other users. The simulation experiments indicate that 11.50% of AVs gravitate towards parking lots near their destinations, while over 50% of AVs avoid public parking amenities altogether. This trend towards minimizing individual parking costs prompts AVs to undertake extended empty cruising, resulting in a significant increase of 48.18% in total vehicle mileage. Moreover, the pricing structure across various parking facilities and management dictates the parking preferences of AVs, establishing a nuanced trade‐off between parking expenses and proximity for these vehicles.

Abstract Background Migratory birds exhibit heterogeneity in foraging strategies during wintering to cope with environmental and migratory pressures, and gut bacteria respond to changes in host diet. However, less is known about the dynamics of diet and gut fungi during the wintering period in black-necked cranes (Grus nigricollis). Results In this work, we performed amplicon sequencing of the trnL-P6 loop and ITS1 regions to characterize the dietary composition and gut fungal composition of black-necked cranes during wintering. Results indicated that during the wintering period, the plant-based diet of black-necked cranes mainly consisted of families Poaceae, Solanaceae, and Polygonaceae. Among them, the abundance of Solanaceae, Polygonaceae, Fabaceae, and Caryophyllaceae was significantly higher in the late wintering period, which also led to a more even consumption of various food types by black-necked cranes during this period. The diversity of gut fungal communities and the abundance of core fungi were more conserved during the wintering period, primarily dominated by Ascomycota and Basidiomycota. LEfSe analysis (P 2) found that Pyxidiophora, Pseudopeziza, Sporormiella, Geotrichum, and Papiliotrema were significantly enriched in early winter, Ramularia and Dendryphion were significantly enriched in mid-winter, Barnettozyma was significantly abundant in late winter, and Pleuroascus was significantly abundant in late winter. Finally, mantel test revealed a significant correlation between winter diet and gut fungal. Conclusions This study revealed the dynamic changes in the food composition and gut fungal community of black-necked cranes during wintering in Dashanbao. In the late wintering period, their response to environmental and migratory pressures was to broaden their diet, increase the intake of non-preferred foods, and promote a more balanced consumption ratio of various foods. Balanced food composition played an important role in stabilizing the structure of the gut fungal community. While gut fungal effectively enhanced the host’s food utilization rate, they may also faced potential risks of introducing pathogenic fungi. Additionally, we recongnized the limitations of fecal testing in studying the composition of animal gut fungal, as it cannot effectively distinguished between fungal taxa from food or soil inadvertently ingested and intestines. Future research on functions such as cultivation and metagenomics may further elucidate the role of fungi in the gut ecosystem.

Objective To investigate the correlation between magnetic resonance imaging-based vertebral bone quality (VBQ) score and screw loosening after dynamic pedicle screw fixation with polyetheretherketone (PEEK) rods, and evaluate its predictive value. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on the patients who underwent dynamic pedicle screw fixation with PEEK rods from March 2017 to June 2022. Data on age, sex, body mass index, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia history, long-term smoking, alcohol consumption, VBQ score, L1–4 average Hounsfield unit (HU) value, surgical fixation length, and the lowest instrumented vertebra were collected. Logistic regression analysis was employed to assess the relationship between VBQ score and pedicle screw loosening (PSL). Results A total of 24 patients experienced PSL after surgery (20.5%). PSL group and non-PSL group showed statistical differences in age, number of fixed segments, fixation to the sacrum, L1–4 average HU value, and VBQ score (p < 0.05). The VBQ score in the PSL group was higher than that in the non-PSL group (3.56 ± 0.45 vs. 2.77 ± 0.31, p < 0.001). In logistic regression analysis, VBQ score (odds ratio, 3.425; 95% confidence interval, 1.552–8.279) were identified as independent risk factors for screw loosening. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for VBQ score predicting PSL was 0.819 (p < 0.05), with the optimal threshold of 3.15 (sensitivity, 83.1%; specificity, 80.5%). Conclusion The VBQ score can independently predict postoperative screw loosening in patients undergoing lumbar dynamic pedicle screw fixation with PEEK rods, and its predictive value is comparable to HU value.

Abstract Idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) affects mainly aged populations. The gradual shortening of telomere length (TL) is one of the hallmarks of aging. Whereas the genetic contribution of TL to the iNPH is incompletely understood. We aimed to investigate the causal relationship between TL and iNPH through the Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. We respectively obtained 186 qualified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of TL and 20 eligible SNPs of iNPH for MR analysis. The result of MR analysis showed that genetically predicted longer TL was significantly associated with a reduced odd of iNPH (odds ratio [OR] = 0.634 95% Confidence interval [CI] 0.447–0.899, p = 0.011). The causal association remained consistent in multivariable MR (OR = 0.530 95% CI 0.327–0.860, p = 0.010). However, there was no evidence that the iNPH was causally associated with the TL (OR = 1.000 95% CI 0.996–1.004, p = 0.955). Our study reveals a potential genetic contribution of TL to the etiology of iNPH, that is a genetically predicted increased TL might be associated with a reduced risk of iNPH.

Abstract Background Bronchopleural fistula (BPF) is a rare but fatal complication after pneumonectomy. When a BPF occurs late (weeks to years postoperatively), direct resealing of the bronchial stump through the primary thoracic approach is challenging due to the risks of fibrothorax and injury to the pulmonary artery stump, and the surgical outcome is generally poor. Here, we report a case of late left BPF following left pneumonectomy successfully treated using a right thoracic approach assisted by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Case presentation We report the case of a 57-year-old male patient who underwent left lower and left upper lobectomy, respectively, for heterochronic double primary lung cancer. A left BPF was diagnosed at the 22nd month postoperatively, and conservative treatment was ineffective. Finally, the left BPF was cured by minimally invasive BPF closure surgery via the right thoracic approach with the support of veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO). Conclusions Advanced BPF following left pneumonectomy can be achieved with an individualized treatment plan, and the right thoracic approach assisted by ECMO is a relatively simple and effective method, which could be considered as an additional treatment option for similar patients.

Abstract Vaccine development targeting SARS-CoV-2 in 2020 was of critical importance in reducing COVID-19 severity and mortality. In the U.K. during the initial roll-out most individuals either received two doses of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine (BNT162b2) or the adenovirus-based vaccine from Oxford/AstraZeneca (ChAdOx1-nCoV-19). There are conflicting data as to the impact of age, sex and body habitus on cellular and humoral responses to vaccination, and most studies in this area have focused on determinants of mRNA vaccine immunogenicity. Here, we studied a cohort of participants in a population-based longitudinal study (COVIDENCE UK) to determine the influence of age, sex, body mass index (BMI) and pre-vaccination anti-Spike (anti-S) antibody status on vaccine-induced humoral and cellular immune responses to two doses of BNT162b2 or ChAdOx-n-CoV-19 vaccination. Younger age and pre-vaccination anti-S seropositivity were both associated with stronger antibody responses to vaccination. BNT162b2 generated higher neutralising and anti-S antibody titres to vaccination than ChAdOx1-nCoV-19, but cellular responses to the two vaccines were no different. Irrespective of vaccine type, increasing age was also associated with decreased frequency of cytokine double-positive CD4+T cells. Increasing BMI was associated with reduced frequency of SARS-CoV-2-specific TNF+CD8% T cells for both vaccines. Together, our findings demonstrate that increasing age and BMI are associated with attenuated cellular and humoral responses to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Whilst both vaccines induced T cell responses, BNT162b2 induced significantly elevated humoral immune response as compared to ChAdOx-n-CoV-19.

Abstract Objective Patients undergoing oral and maxillofacial flap reconstruction often need blood transfusions due to massive blood loss. With the increasing limitations of allogeneic blood transfusion (ABT), doctors are considering acute normovolemic hemodilution (ANH) because of its advantages. By comparing the differences in the (Δ) blood indices and postoperative complications of patients receiving ABT or ANH during the reconstruction and repair of oral and maxillofacial tumor flaps, this study’s purpose was to provide a reference for the clinical application of ANH. Methods The clinical data of 276 patients who underwent oral and maxillofacial flap reconstruction from September 25, 2017, to October 11, 2021, in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, were retrospectively analyzed. According to the intraoperative blood transfusion mode, the patients were divided into two groups: ABT and ANH. The differences in the (Δ) blood indices and the incidence of postoperative complications between the groups were analyzed. Results Among the 276 patients who had ANH (124/276) and ABT (152/276), there were no differences in (Δ) Hb, (Δ) PT, or (Δ) FIB (P > 0.05), while (Δ) WBC, (Δ) PLT, (Δ) APTT and (Δ) D-dimer were significantly different (P 0.05). The wound infection probability in patients with high post-PTs was 1.953 times greater than that in patients with low post-PTs (OR = 1.953, 95% CI: 1.232 ∼ 3.095, P = 0.004). A normal or overweight BMI was a protective factor for pulmonary infection, and the incidence of pulmonary infection in these patients was only 0.089 times that of patients with a low BMI (OR = 0.089, 95% CI: 0.017 ∼ 0.462). Moreover, a high ASA grade promoted the occurrence of pulmonary infection (OR = 6.373, 95% CI: 1.681 ∼ 24.163). The blood transfusion mode (B = 0.310, β = 0.360, P

Abstract The development of optoelectronics mimicking the functions of the biological nervous system is important to artificial intelligence. This work demonstrates an optoelectronic, artificial, afferent-nerve strategy based on memory-electroluminescence spikes, which can realize multiple action-potentials combination through a single optical channel. The memory-electroluminescence spikes have diverse morphologies due to their history-dependent characteristics and can be used to encode distributed sensor signals. As the key to successful functioning of the optoelectronic, artificial afferent nerve, a driving mode for light-emitting diodes, namely, the non-carrier injection mode, is proposed, allowing it to drive nanoscale light-emitting diodes to generate a memory-electroluminescence spikes that has multiple sub-peaks. Moreover, multiplexing of the spikes can be obtained by using optical signals with different wavelengths, allowing for a large signal bandwidth, and the multiple action-potentials transmission process in afferent nerves can be demonstrated. Finally, sensor-position recognition with the bio-inspired afferent nerve is developed and shown to have a high recognition accuracy of 98.88%. This work demonstrates a strategy for mimicking biological afferent nerves and offers insights into the construction of artificial perception systems.

Abstract Background Myelodysplastic neoplasms (MDS) are myeloid neoplasms characterized by disordered differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells and a predisposition to acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The underline pathogenesis remains unclear. Methods In this study, the trajectory of differentiation and mechanisms of leukemic transformation were explored through bioinformatics analysis of single-cell RNA-Seq data from hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) in MDS patients. Results Among the HSPC clusters, the proportion of common myeloid progenitor (CMP) was the main cell cluster in the patients with excess blasts (EB)/ secondary AML. Cell cycle analysis indicated the CMP of MDS patients were in an active proliferative state. The genes involved in the cell proliferation, such as MAML3 and PLCB1, were up-regulated in MDS CMP. Further validation analysis indicated that the expression levels of MAML3 and PLCB1 in patients with MDS-EB were significantly higher than those without EB. Patients with high expression of PLCB1 had a higher risk of transformation to AML. PLCB1 inhibitor can suppress proliferation, induce cell cycle arrest, and activate apoptosis of leukemic cells in vitro. Conclusion This study revealed the transcriptomic change of HSPCs in MDS patients along the pseudotime and indicated that PLCB1 plays a key role in the transformation of MDS into leukemia.

Abstract For high‐speed moving objects, drag reduction has been a prolonged major challenge. To address this problem, passive and negative strategies have been proposed in the preceding decades. The integration of creatures and nature has been continuously perfected during biological evolution. Unique structure characteristics, material properties, and special functions of marine organisms can provide inexhaustible inspirations to solve this intractable problem of drag reduction. Therefore, a simple and low‐cost laser ablation method was proposed. A multi‐scale and multi‐level riblet (MSLR) surface inspired by the denticles of the sharkskin was fabricated by controlling the density of the laser path and ablation times. The morphology and topographic features were characterised using an electron microscope and a scanning white‐light interfering profilometer. Then, the drag reduction capacity of the bionic riblet surface was measured in a circulating water tunnel. Finally, the mechanism of drag reduction was analysed by the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method. The results show that the MSLR surface has a stable drag reduction capacity with an increase in Reynold (Re) number which was contributed by high‐low velocity stripes formed on the MSLR surface. This study can provide a reference for fabricating spatial riblets with efficient drag reduction at different values of Re and improving marine antifouling.

Abstract Host-derived reactive oxygen species (ROS) are an important defense means to protect against pathogens. Although mitochondria are the main intracellular targets of ROS, how pathogens regulate mitochondrial physiology in response to oxidative stress remains elusive. Prohibitin 2 (PHB2) is an inner mitochondrial membrane (IMM) protein, recognized as a mitophagy receptor in animals and fungi. Here, we find that an ANK and FYVE domain-containing protein PsAF5, is an adapter of PsPHB2, interacting with PsATG8 under ROS stress. Unlike animal PHB2 that can recruit ATG8 directly to mitochondria, PsPHB2 in Phytophthora sojae cannot recruit PsATG8 to stressed mitochondria without PsAF5. PsAF5 deletion impairs mitophagy under ROS stress and increases the pathogen’s sensitivity to H2O2, resulting in the attenuation of P. sojae virulence. This discovery of a PsPHB2-PsATG8 adapter (PsAF5) in plant-pathogenic oomycetes reveals that mitophagy induction by IMM proteins is conserved in eukaryotes, but with differences in the details of ATG8 recruitment.

Cu3SbSe4, a copper-based sulfide free of rare earth elements, has received extensive attention in thermoelectric materials. However, its low carrier concentration restricts its widespread application. In this study, a microwave-assisted solution synthesis method was used to produce samples of Cu3SbSe4, which enabled the formation of CuSe in situ and increased the yield. Through the use of first-principles calculations, structural analysis, and performance evaluation, it was found that CuSe can enhance the carrier concentration and that induced nano-defects have a positive effect on reducing the lattice thermal conductivity. Moreover, doping with Sn decreases the band gap of the system and moves the Fermi level into the valence band, increasing the carrier concentration to 1.15 × 10−20 cm−3. Finally, the zT value of the Cu3Sb0.98Sn0.02Se4 sample was achieved at 1.05 at 623 K when the theoretical yield of a single synthesis was 10 mmol.

Multi-parent populations (MPPs) are attractive for genetic and breeding studies because they combine genetic diversity with an easy-to-control population structure. Most methods for mapping QTLs in MPPs focus on the detection of QTLs in single environments. Little attention has been given to mapping QTLs in multienvironment trials (METs) and to detecting and modeling QTL-by-environment interactions (QEIs). We present mixed model approaches for the detection and modeling of consistent versus environment-dependent QTLs, i.e., QTL-by-environment interaction (QEI). QTL effects are assumed to be normally distributed with variances expressing consistency or dependence on environments and families. The entries of the corresponding design matrices are functions of identity-by-descent (IBD) probabilities between parents and offspring and follow from the parental origin of offspring DNA. A polygenic effect is added to the models to account for background genetic variation. We illustrate the wide applicability of our method by analyzing several public MPP datasets with observations from METs. The examples include diallel, nested association mapping (NAM), and multi-parent advanced inter-cross (MAGIC) populations. The results of our approach compare favorably with those of previous studies that used tailored methods.

Abstract Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are emerging as promising carriers for the delivery of therapeutic biologics. Genetic engineering represents a robust strategy for loading proteins of interest into EVs. Identification of EV‐enriched proteins facilitates protein cargo loading efficiency. Many EV‐enriched proteins are sorted into EVs via an endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT)‐dependent pathway. In parallel, viruses hijack this EV biosynthesis machinery via conserved late domain motifs to promote egress from host cells. Inspired by the similarity of biogenesis between EVs and viruses, we developed a synthetic, Late domain‐based EV scaffold protein that enables the display of a set of single chain variable fragments (scFvs) on the EV surface. We named this scaffold the Late domain‐based exosomal antibody surface display platform (LEAP). We applied the LEAP scaffold to reprogramme HEK293T cell‐derived EVs to elicit T‐cell anti‐tumor immunity by simultaneously displaying αPD‐L1 and αCD3 scFvs on the EV surface (denoted as αPD‐L1×αCD3 bispecific T‐cell engaging exosomes, BiTExos). We demonstrated that αPD‐L1×αCD3 BiTExos actively redirected T cells to bind to PD‐L1+ tumor cells, promoting T‐cell activation, proliferation and tumoricidal cytokine production. Furthermore, the αPD‐L1×αCD3 BiTExos promoted T‐cell infiltration into the tumor microenvironment to mitigate the tumor burden in vivo. Our study suggested that the LEAP scaffold may serve as a platform for EV surface display and could be applied for a broad range of EV‐based biomedical applications.

With the development of energy storage technology, the new energy storage materials are more diverse. The sodium metal has the advantages of high energy density, rich resource reserves, and low costs for raw materials, becoming promising advanced energy storage materials for application. However, the low tensile strength of sodium metal makes it difficult to process deformation while its severe viscosity and low melting point affect the subsequent manufactory and application of batteries. These characteristics hinder the processing and preparation of thin‐sodium metal. The designs of composite‐supporting structure, alloying, and the interface strengthening for sodium metal can effectively overcome the difficulties in preparation of the thin sodium. In this review, the design principles of thin sodium in terms of processing and preparation, according to the physical and chemical properties of sodium metal, are discussed. Meanwhile, the key challenges and new development opportunities are addressed for the processing and preparation of the thin‐sodium metal, which is beneficial for deeply understanding the reliable fabrication and realizing the practical application of thin‐sodium metals.

BackgroundHemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) continues to pose a significant public health threat to the population in China. Previous epidemiological evidence indicates that HFRS is climate sensitive and influenced by meteorological factors. However, past studies either focused on too-narrow geographical regions or investigated time periods that were too early. There is an urgent need for a comprehensive analysis to interpret the epidemiological patterns of meteorological factors affecting the incidence of HFRS across diverse climate zones. ObjectiveIn this study, we aimed to describe the overall epidemic characteristics of HFRS and explore the linkage between monthly HFRS cases and meteorological factors at different climate levels in China. MethodsThe reported HFRS cases and meteorological data were collected from 151 cities in China during the period from 2015 to 2021. We conducted a 3-stage analysis, adopting a distributed lag nonlinear model and a generalized additive model to estimate the interactions and marginal effects of meteorological factors on HFRS. ResultsThis study included a total of 63,180 cases of HFRS; the epidemic trends showed seasonal fluctuations, with patterns varying across different climate zones. Temperature had the greatest impact on the incidence of HFRS, with the maximum hysteresis effects being at 1 month (–19 ºC; relative risk [RR] 1.64, 95% CI 1.24-2.15) in the midtemperate zone, 0 months (28 ºC; RR 3.15, 95% CI 2.13-4.65) in the warm-temperate zone, and 0 months (4 ºC; RR 1.72, 95% CI 1.31-2.25) in the subtropical zone. Interactions were discovered between the average temperature, relative humidity, and precipitation in different temperature zones. Moreover, the influence of precipitation and relative humidity on the incidence of HFRS had different characteristics under different temperature layers. The hysteresis effect of meteorological factors did not end after an epidemic season, but gradually weakened in the following 1 or 2 seasons. ConclusionsWeather variability, especially low temperature, plays an important role in epidemics of HFRS in China. A long hysteresis effect indicates the necessity of continuous intervention following an HFRS epidemic. This finding can help public health departments guide the prevention and control of HFRS and develop strategies to cope with the impacts of climate change in specific regions.

Abstract Background Large-scale outbreaks of scrub typhus combined with its emergence in new areas as a vector-borne rickettsiosis highlight the ongoing neglect of this disease. This study aims to explore the long-term changes and regional leading factors of scrub typhus in China, with the goal of providing valuable insights for disease prevention and control. Methods This study utilized a Bayesian space–time hierarchical model (BSTHM) to examine the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of scrub typhus and analyze the relationship between environmental factors and scrub typhus in southern and northern China from 2006 to 2018. Additionally, a GeoDetector model was employed to assess the predominant influences of geographical and socioeconomic factors in both regions. Results Scrub typhus exhibits a seasonal pattern, typically occurring during the summer and autumn months (June to November), with a peak in October. Geographically, the high-risk regions, or hot spots, are concentrated in the south, while the low-risk regions, or cold spots, are located in the north. Moreover, the distribution of scrub typhus is influenced by environment and socio-economic factors. In the north and south, the dominant factors are the monthly normalized vegetation index (NDVI) and temperature. An increase in NDVI per interquartile range (IQR) leads to a 7.580% decrease in scrub typhus risk in northern China, and a 19.180% increase in the southern. Similarly, of 1 IQR increase in temperature reduces the risk of scrub typhus by 10.720% in the north but increases it by 15.800% in the south. In terms of geographical and socio-economic factors, illiteracy rate and altitude are the key determinants in the respective areas, with q-values of 0.844 and 0.882. Conclusions These results indicated that appropriate climate, environment, and social conditions would increase the risk of scrub typhus. This study provided helpful suggestions and a basis for reasonably allocating resources and controlling the occurrence of scrub typhus.

Although three-dimensional visual training (3DVT) has been used for myopia intervention, its neural mechanisms remain largely unknown. In this study, visual function was examined before and after 3DVT, while resting-state EEG-fNIRS signals were recorded from 38 myopic participants. A graph theoretical analysis was applied to compute the neurovascular properties, including static brain networks (SBNs), dynamic brain networks (DBNs), and dynamic neurovascular coupling (DNC). Correlations between the changes in neurovascular properties and the changes in visual functions were calculated. After 3DVT, the local efficiency and node efficiency in the frontal lobes increased in the SBNs constructed from EEG $\delta $ -band; the global efficiency and node efficiency in the frontal-parietal lobes decreased in the DBNs variability constructed from EEG $\delta $ -band. For the DNC constructed with EEG $\alpha $ -band and oxyhemoglobin (HbO), the local efficiency decreased, for EEG $\alpha $ -band and deoxyhemoglobin (HbR), the node efficiency in the frontal-occipital lobes decreased. For the SBNs constructed from HbO, the functional connectivity (FC) between the frontal-occipital lobes increased. The DNC constructed between the FC of the frontal-parietal lobes from EEG $\beta $ -band and the FC of the frontal-occipital lobes from HbO increased, and between the FC of the frontal-occipital lobes from EEG $\beta $ -band and the FC of the inter-frontal lobes from HbR increased. The neurovascular properties were significantly correlated with the amplitude of accommodation and accommodative facility. The result indicated the positive effects of 3DVT on myopic participants, including improved efficiency of brain networks, increased FC of SBNs and DNC, and enhanced binocular accommodation functions.

Non-invasive cerebral neuromodulation technologies are essential for the reorganization of cerebral neural networks, which have been widely applied in the field of central neurological diseases, such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and mental disorders. Although significant advances have been made in neuromodulation technologies, the identification of optimal neurostimulation parameters including the cortical target, duration, and inhibition or excitation pattern is still limited due to the lack of guidance for neural circuits. Moreover, the neural mechanism underlying neuromodulation for improved behavioral performance remains poorly understood. Recently, advancements in neuroimaging have provided insight into neuromodulation techniques. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy, as a novel non-invasive optical brain imaging method, can detect brain activity by measuring cerebral hemodynamics with the advantages of portability, high motion tolerance, and anti-electromagnetic interference. Coupling functional near-infrared spectroscopy with neuromodulation technologies offers an opportunity to monitor the cortical response, provide real-time feedback, and establish a closed-loop strategy integrating evaluation, feedback, and intervention for neurostimulation, which provides a theoretical basis for development of individualized precise neurorehabilitation. We aimed to summarize the advantages of functional near-infrared spectroscopy and provide an overview of the current research on functional near-infrared spectroscopy in transcranial magnetic stimulation, transcranial electrical stimulation, neurofeedback, and brain-computer interfaces. Furthermore, the future perspectives and directions for the application of functional near-infrared spectroscopy in neuromodulation are summarized. In conclusion, functional near-infrared spectroscopy combined with neuromodulation may promote the optimization of central neural reorganization to achieve better functional recovery from central nervous system diseases.

Secondary salinization poses a significant threat to the sustainable development of water-saving irrigation districts. This study aims to explore the spatial and temporal variations in soil salinity and the factors influencing these changes in water-saving irrigation areas in the inland arid regions of Northwest China. The Manas River Irrigation District was selected as the study area. A grid measuring 10 km × 14 km grid was designed to determine the latitude and longitude coordinates of the grid centers, resulting in 66 sample points. Soil samples were collected from these points in 2013, 2014, 2020, and 2021 from the 0100 cm layer to obtain salinity data. Based on existing research and practical conditions in water-saving irrigation areas, 11 factors influencing soil salinity changes were identified, including irrigation area and irrigation amount. Classical statistical methods and interpretable machine learning techniques were employed to analyze the distribution characteristics of soil salinity and the influencing factors. This analysis proposes effective solutions to mitigate potential secondary salinization in irrigation areas. The results revealed that soil salinity in the irrigation area belonged to moderate variation (Cv = 46.74 %51.80 %). The horizontal direction of the irrigation area shows higher salt content in the upstream and downstream areas, and a gradual decrease in variability with increasing depth characterizes the vertical direction. From 2013–2021, soil salinization in the irrigation area gradually decreased. In 2013 and 2014, the area was predominantly covered by mild saline-alkali soil, accounting for 75.1 % and 76.6 % of the total area, respectively. However, in 2020 and 2021, non-saline soils became dominant, covering 60.9 % and 66.5 % of the total irrigation area, respectively. In order of importance, the factors affecting the spatial and temporal evolution of soil salinity are groundwater depth, annual water surface evaporation, water-saving irrigation area, underground water diversion amount, mineralization of groundwater, irrigation amount, surface water diversion amount, and annual rainfall. In the oasis irrigation area, maintaining a groundwater depth of 4.06.0 m and an irrigation amount of 55006000 m3 ha−1 can alleviate the problem of secondary salinization that may result from large-scale development of water-saving irrigation. The findings of this study provide a basis for the prevention and control of soil salinization in water-saving irrigation areas and the development and management of saline land in oasis areas.

Gut microbiota is involved in intricate and active metabolic processes the host's brain function, especially its role in immune responses, secondary metabolism, and symbiotic connections with the host. Gut microbiota can promote the production of essential metabolites, neurotransmitters, and other neuroactive chemicals that affect the development and treatment of central nervous system diseases. This article introduces the relevant pathways and manners of the communication between the brain and gut, summarizes a comprehensive overview of the current research status of key gut microbiota metabolites that affect the functions of the nervous system, revealing those adverse factors that affect typical communication between the brain-gut axis, and outlining the efforts made by researchers to alleviate these neurological diseases through targeted microbial interventions. The relevant pathways and manners of communication between the brain and gut contribute to the experimental design of new treatment plans and drug development. The factors that may cause changes in gut microbiota and affect metabolites, as well as current intervention methods are summarized, which helps improve gut microbiota brain dialogue, prevent adverse triggering factors from interfering with the gut microbiota system, and minimize neuropathological changes.

Abstract Background Neurocognitive and psychiatric disorders have been proved that they can comorbid more often with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) than general population. However, the potential causal association between these disorders and iNPH has not been assessed. Thus, our study aims to investigate the causal relationship between them based on a bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. Methods Random effects of the inverse variance weighted (IVW) method were conducted to obtain the causal association among the neurocognitive disorders, psychiatric disorders, and iNPH. Genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) of 12 neurocognitive and psychiatric disorders were downloaded via the OpenGWAS database, GWAS Catalog, and Psychiatric Genomics Consortium, whereas GWAS data of iNPH were obtained from the FinnGen consortium round 9 release, with 767 cases and 375,610 controls of European ancestry. We also conducted the sensitivity analysis in these significant causal inferences using weighted median model, Cochrane's Q test, MR‐Egger regression, MR Pleiotropy Residual Sum and Outlier detect and the leave‐one‐out analysis. Results For most of the neurocognitive and psychiatric disorders, no causal association was established between them and iNPH. We have found that iNPH (odds ratio [OR] = 1.030, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.011–1.048, p = .001) is associated with increased risk for schizophrenia, which failed in validation of sensitivity analysis. Notably, genetically predicted Parkinson's disease (PD) is associated with increased risk of iNPH (OR = 1.256, 95% CI: 1.045–1.511, p = .015). Conclusion Our study has revealed the potential causal effect in which PD associated with an increased risk of iNPH. Further study is warranted to investigate the association between PD and iNPH and the potential underlying mechanism.

BackgroundIn the digital age, search engines and social media platforms are primary sources for health information, yet their commercial interests–focused algorithms often prioritize irrelevant content. Web-based health applications by reputable sources offer a solution to circumvent these biased algorithms. Despite this advantage, there remains a significant gap in research on the effective integration of content-ranking algorithms within these specialized health applications to ensure the delivery of personalized and relevant health information. ObjectiveThis study introduces a generic methodology designed to facilitate the development and implementation of health information recommendation features within web-based health applications. MethodsWe detail our proposed methodology, covering conceptual foundation and practical considerations through the stages of design, development, operation, review, and optimization in the software development life cycle. Using a case study, we demonstrate the practical application of the proposed methodology through the implementation of recommendation functionalities in the EndoZone platform, a platform dedicated to providing targeted health information on endometriosis. ResultsApplication of the proposed methodology in the EndoZone platform led to the creation of a tailored health information recommendation system known as EndoZone Informatics. Feedback from EndoZone stakeholders as well as insights from the implementation process validate the methodology’s utility in enabling advanced recommendation features in health information applications. Preliminary assessments indicate that the system successfully delivers personalized content, adeptly incorporates user feedback, and exhibits considerable flexibility in adjusting its recommendation logic. While certain project-specific design flaws were not caught in the initial stages, these issues were subsequently identified and rectified in the review and optimization stages. ConclusionsWe propose a generic methodology to guide the design and implementation of health information recommendation functionality within web-based health information applications. By harnessing user characteristics and feedback for content ranking, this methodology enables the creation of personalized recommendations that align with individual user needs within trusted health applications. The successful application of our methodology in the development of EndoZone Informatics marks a significant progress toward personalized health information delivery at scale, tailored to the specific needs of users.

Intermediate nerve neuralgia (INN) is a rare craniofacial pain syndrome. The diagnosis of INN is challenging because of the complex ear sensory innervation that results in a clinical overlap with both trigeminal neuralgia (TN) and glossopharyngeal neuralgia (GPN). A 76-year-old woman with a remarkable medical history presented with right otalgia and mandibular pain for 7 years. Neurological examination revealed a diminished sensation in the distribution of the intermediate nerve (IN). Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated an impression of the anterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA) on the facial–vestibulocochlear nerve complex (VII/VIII complex). The patient underwent microvascular decompression (MVD) after long-term oral medication. We confirmed that the responsible vessel was close to the VII/VIII complex and isolated the vessel under the microscope via a right-sided suboccipital retrosigmoid approach. The patient's otalgia and mandibular pain disappeared after the operation. There were no additional neurological deficits. In conclusion, MVD is a safe and feasible option for patients with INN who fail to respond to adequate pharmacotherapy.

Abstract Terminal drought is one of the major constraints to crop production in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). In order to map drought tolerance related traits at high resolution, we sequenced multi‐parent advanced generation intercross (MAGIC) population using whole genome resequencing approach and phenotyped it under drought stress environments for two consecutive years (2013–14 and 2014–15). A total of 52.02 billion clean reads containing 4.67 TB clean data were generated on the 1136 MAGIC lines and eight parental lines. Alignment of clean data on to the reference genome enabled identification of a total, 932,172 of SNPs, 35,973 insertions, and 35,726 deletions among the parental lines. A high‐density genetic map was constructed using 57,180 SNPs spanning a map distance of 1606.69 cM. Using compressed mixed linear model, genome‐wide association study (GWAS) enabled us to identify 737 markers significantly associated with days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, 100 seed weight, biomass, and harvest index. In addition to the GWAS approach, an identity‐by‐descent (IBD)‐based mixed model approach was used to map quantitative trait loci (QTLs). The IBD‐based mixed model approach detected major QTLs that were comparable to those from the GWAS analysis as well as some exclusive QTLs with smaller effects. The candidate genes like FRIGIDA and CaTIFY4b can be used for enhancing drought tolerance in chickpea. The genomic resources, genetic map, marker‐trait associations, and QTLs identified in the study are valuable resources for the chickpea community for developing climate resilient chickpeas.

The influence on and biotransformation of volatile compounds (VOCs) during fermentation of Elaeagnus moorcroftii Wall.ex Schlecht. juice (EWSJ) through single inoculation and co-inoculation of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis HN-3 (B.an3) and Lacticaseibacillus paracasei YL-29 (L.cp29) were analyzed through headspace-solid phase microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Compared with the B.an3- and L.cp29-fermented EWSJ, the B.an3 + L.cp29-fermented EWSJ had more increased 9 desirable flavor compositions and less decreased in or even elimination of 12 undesirable flavor compositions, and 3 new characteristic VOCs, formed through the interaction between B.an3 and L.cp29 were detected. In addition, biotransformations that led to an increase and a decrease in VOCs mainly involved 3 oxidation, 3 reduction, 1 hydrolysis, and 1 isomerization reactions. This study offers a theoretical basis for investigating the interaction effect of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species on VOCs and developing lactic acid bacteria-fermented plant-based juices with lower sugar content and better flavor.

To better understand the effect of oxygen levels in the storage environment on peanut protein oxidation and explore the mechanism, the functional properties and the oxidation degree of peanut proteins extracted from peanuts under conventional storage (CS), nitrogen modified atmosphere storage (NS, hypoxic) and re-aeration storage (RS) were investigated. Metabolomics and proteomics were employed to analyze peanut’s response to hypoxic/re-aeration storage environment. The results showed that NS retarded the decline of the functional properties and the oxidation of peanut proteins, while the process were accelerated after re-aeration. That was the result of the metabolic changes of peanuts under different storage environments. The omics results presented the decreased (NS)/increased (RS) levels of the antioxidant-related proteins acetaldehyde dehydrogenase and glutathione S-transferase, and the inhibition (NS)/activation (RS) of metabolic pathways such as the TCA cycle and the pentose phosphate pathway. This study provided a reference for the re-aeration storage of other agricultural products.

Abstract The global trade in live wildlife elevates the risk of biological invasions by increasing colonization pressure (the number of alien species introduced to an area). Yet, our understanding of species traded as aliens remains limited. We created a comprehensive global database on live terrestrial vertebrate trade and use it to investigate the number of traded alien species, and correlates of establishment richness for aliens. We identify 7,780 species involved in this trade globally. Approximately 85.7% of these species are traded as aliens, and 12.2% of aliens establish populations. Countries with greater trading power, higher incomes, and larger human populations import more alien species. These countries, along with island nations, emerge as hotspots for establishment richness of aliens. Colonization pressure and insularity consistently promote establishment richness across countries, while socio-economic factors impact specific taxa. Governments must prioritize policies to mitigate the release or escape of traded animals and protect global biosecurity.

Abstract Background RNA editing by adenosine deaminase acting on RNA (ADAR) occurs in all metazoans and fulfils several functions. Here, we examined effects of acclimation temperature (27 °C, 18 °C,13 °C) on editing patterns in six tissues of zebrafish (Danio rerio). Results Sites and total amounts of editing differed among tissues. Brain showed the highest levels, followed by gill and skin. In these highly edited tissues, decreases in temperatures led to large increases in total amounts of editing and changes in specific edited sites. Gene ontology analysis showed both similarities (e.g., endoplasmic reticulum stress response) and differences in editing among tissues. The majority of edited sites were in transcripts of transposable elements and the 3′UTR regions of protein coding genes. By experimental validation, translation efficiency was directly related to extent of editing of the 3′UTR region of an mRNA. Conclusions RNA editing increases 3′UTR polymorphism and affects efficiency of translation. Such editing may lead to temperature-adaptive changes in the proteome through altering relative amounts of synthesis of different proteins.

Abstract Higher-order Weyl semimetals are a family of recently predicted topological phases simultaneously showcasing unconventional properties derived from Weyl points, such as chiral anomaly, and multidimensional topological phenomena originating from higher-order topology. The higher-order Weyl semimetal phases, with their higher-order topology arising from quantized dipole or quadrupole bulk polarizations, have been demonstrated in phononics and circuits. Here, we experimentally discover a class of higher-order Weyl semimetal phase in a three-dimensional photonic crystal (PhC), exhibiting the concurrence of the surface and hinge Fermi arcs from the nonzero Chern number and the nontrivial generalized real Chern number, respectively, coined a real higher-order Weyl PhC. Notably, the projected two-dimensional subsystem with k z = 0 is a real Chern insulator, belonging to the Stiefel-Whitney class with real Bloch wavefunctions, which is distinguished fundamentally from the Chern class with complex Bloch wavefunctions. Our work offers an ideal photonic platform for exploring potential applications and material properties associated with the higher-order Weyl points and the Stiefel-Whitney class of topological phases.

Abstract Background Epigenetic clocks constructed from DNA methylation patterns have emerged as excellent predictors of aging and aging-related health outcomes. Iron, a crucial element, is meticulously regulated within organisms, a phenomenon referred as iron homeostasis. Previous researches have demonstrated the sophisticated connection between aging and iron homeostasis. However, their causal relationship remains relatively unexplored. Results Through two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) utilizing the random effect inverse variance weighted (IVW) method, each standard deviation (SD) increase in serum iron was associated with increased GrimAge acceleration (GrimAA, BetaIVW = 0.27, P = 8.54E−03 in 2014 datasets; BetaIVW = 0.31, P = 1.25E−02 in 2021 datasets), HannumAge acceleration (HannumAA, BetaIVW = 0.32, P = 4.50E−03 in 2014 datasets; BetaIVW = 0.32, P = 8.03E−03 in 2021 datasets) and Intrinsic epigenetic age acceleration (IEAA, BetaIVW = 0.34, P = 5.33E−04 in 2014 datasets; BetaIVW = 0.49, P = 9.94E−04 in 2021 datasets). Similar results were also observed in transferrin saturation. While transferrin manifested a negative association with epigenetic age accelerations (EAAs) sensitivity analyses. Besides, lack of solid evidence to support a causal relationship from EAAs to iron-related biomarkers. Conclusions The results of present investigation unveiled the causality of iron overload on acceleration of epigenetic clocks. Researches are warranted to illuminate the underlying mechanisms and formulate strategies for potential interventions.

Abstract Objective This study aimed to investigate the correlation between the MRI high-intensity zone (HIZ) and the pathogenesis of discogenic low back pain. Methods Literature from PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, China Knowledge Network, Wanfang Database, and China Biomedical Literature Database was searched until August 2023. Cohort studies including patients with low back pain who underwent lumbar spine MRI and discography, as well as the results evaluating the correlation between HIZ and discography for morphological changes in the disc and pain replication phenomena, were included in the analysis. The literature that met the inclusion criteria was screened, and the methodological quality of the included studies was evaluated. Meta-analysis of the extracted data was performed by using RevMan 5.1.1. Results In total, 28 reports were included in this meta-analysis. There was a statistically significant correlation between a positive HIZ and abnormal disc morphology in discography (OR 28.15, 95% CI [7.38, 107.46], p

Abstract While lumbar spinal fusion using rigid rods is a prevalent surgical technique, it can lead to complications such as adjacent segment disease (ASDis). Dynamic stabilization devices serve to maintain physiological spinal motion and alleviate painful stress, yet they are accompanied by a substantial incidence of construct failure and subsequent reoperation. Compared to traditional rigid devices, Isobar TTL semi-rigid stabilization devices demonstrate equivalent stiffness and effective stabilization capabilities. Furthermore, when contrasted with dynamic stabilization techniques, semi-rigid stabilization offers improved load distribution, a broader range of motion within the fixed segment, and reduced mechanical failure rates. This paper will review and evaluate the clinical and biomechanical performance of Isobar TTL semi-rigid stabilization devices. A literature search using the PubMed, EMBASE, CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, and Cochrane Library databases identified studies that met the eligibility criteria. Twenty-eight clinical studies and nine biomechanical studies were included in this systematic review. The VAS, the ODI, and Japanese Orthopedic Association scoring improved significantly in most studies. UCLA grading scale, Pfirrmann grading, and modified Pfirrmann grading of the upper adjacent segments improved significantly in most studies. The occurrence rate of ASD was low. In biomechanical studies, Isobar TTL demonstrated a superior load sharing distribution, a larger fixed segment range of motion, and reduced stress at the rod–screw/screw–bone interfaces compared with titanium rods. While findings from mechanical studies provided promising results, the clinical studies exhibited low methodological quality. As a result, the available evidence does not possess sufficient strength to substantiate superior outcomes with Isobar semi-rigid system in comparison to titanium rods. To establish more conclusive conclusions, further investigations incorporating improved protocols, larger sample sizes, and extended follow-up durations are warranted.

Sheep’s wool is known to have unique biological, physical and chemical properties. The fibre primarily consists of proteins, but these have amino acid sequence variation, and at the phenotypic level wool fibre varies considerably. This can affect its utility and value. Unravelling the genetic factors that underpin the protein and phenotypic variability is crucial if we are to contemplate improving wool quality. Accordingly, this study investigates the high glycine and tyrosine content keratin-associated protein 19-5 gene (KRTAP19-5) in sheep. PCR-single strand confirmation polymorphism analysis, coupled with DNA sequencing of a region spanning whole coding sequence, revealed six sequence variants containing seven single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Five of the SNPs were located within the coding region, with four leading to amino acid changes if expressed. In 247 Chinese Tan sheep derived from 10 sire-lines, and renowned for their distinct ‘spring-like’ crimped wool at up to approximately 35 days after birth, one of the variants was found to be associated with decreased curvature of the fine wool fibres in the fleece. No associations were detected with other fibre traits or with variation in the heterotypic hair fibres of the Tan sheep. While these findings may be useful for developing gene markers to alter mean wool fibre curvature and improve sheep breeding, many other genes and environmental factors are known to contribute to variation in fibre traits.

In the structure of composite pavement, the formation of voids beneath concrete panels poses significant risks to structural integrity and operational safety. Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR) detection serves as an effective method for identifying voids beneath concrete pavement panels. This paper focuses on analyzing the morphological features of GPR echo signals. Leveraging the GprMax numerical simulation software, a numerical simulation model for void conditions in concrete pavement is established by setting reasonable pavement structure parameters, signal parameters, and model space parameters. The reliability of the numerical simulation model is validated based on field data from full-scale test sites with pre-fabricated voids. Various void conditions, including different void thicknesses, sizes, shapes, and filling mediums, are analyzed. The main conclusions of the study are as follows: the correlation coefficient between measured and simulated signals is above 0.8; a noticeable distinction exists between echo signals from intact and voided structures; signals exhibit similar phase and time delays for different void thicknesses and sizes but significant differences are observed in the A-scan signal intensity, the signal intensity, and the width of the B-scan signal; the impact of void shape on GPR echo signals mainly manifests in the variation of void thickness at different measurement points; and the relationship between the dielectric properties of the void-filling medium and the surrounding environment dictates the phase and time delay characteristics of the echo signal.

The construction of shield tunneling close to risk sources in urban has been a commonly encountered problem in recent years. The establishment of the analytical model used to calculate the immediate settlement of existing structures has been a major focus in approaching construction issues. It is obvious that after shield construction, the settlement will inevitably continue to increase for a long period. In this study, a novel model applied to calculate the long-term settlement considering the influence of soil consolidation was proposed. Based on this proposed analysis model, combined with building information modeling (BIM), geographic information system (GIS), city information model (CIM), geoscience modeling (Geo Model), and internet of things (IoT), a three-dimensional (3D) intelligent management and control platform for shield tunneling construction close to major risk sources was developed and introduced. In this platform, the analysis model was embedded to calculate the long-term settlement, and the risk data were determined by comparing calculated results, monitoring results, and control standard value. The intelligent platform adopts the analytical method and computer technology to solve the problem of approaching construction, such as management of construction information, pre-warning, and control of construction risk, and it has been successfully applied in Beijing shield tunneling projects. This platform can also provide the pre-warning function and economic value for similar construction projects.

The rumen microbiota and metabolites play an important role in energy metabolism and immune regulation of the host. However, the regulatory mechanism of rumen microbiota and metabolite interactions with host on Tibetan sheep’s plateau adaptability is still unclear. We analyzed the ruminal microbiome and metabolome, host transcriptome and serum metabolome characteristics of Tibetan sheep at different ages. Biomarkers Butyrivibrio, Lachnospiraceae_XPB1014_group, Prevotella, and Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group were found in 4 months, 1.5 years, 3.5 years, and 6 years Tibetan sheep, respectively. The rumen microbial metabolites were mainly enriched in galactose metabolism, unsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis and fatty acid degradation pathways, and had significant correlation with microbiota. These metabolites further interact with mRNA, and are co-enriched in arginine and proline metabolism, metabolism of xenobiotics by cytochrome P450, propanoate metabolism, starch and sucrose metabolism, gap junction pathway. Meanwhile, serum metabolites also have a similar function, such as chemical carcinogenesis − reactive oxygen species, limonene and pinene degradation, and cutin, suberine and wax biosynthesis, thus participating in the regulation of the body’s immune and energy-related metabolic processes. This study systematically revealed that rumen microbiota, metabolites, mRNA and serum metabolites of Tibetan sheep were involved in the regulation of fermentation metabolic function and immune level of Tibetan sheep at different ages, which provided a new perspective for plateau adaptability research of Tibetan sheep at different ages.

Background: The invasive brownrat (Rattus norvegicus) and the Oriental rats (Rattus tanezumi) are common commensal murid that are important hosts for rodent-borne diseases in southeast Asia. Understanding their population structure and genetic diversity is essential to uncover their invasion biology and distribution dynamics that are essential for controlling rodent-borne diseases.Methods: TA total of 103 R. norvegicus and 85 R. tanezumi were collected from 13 to 9 coastal areas of six provincial monitoring sentinel sites, respectivelyto assess patterns in their microsatellite loci and their mitochondrial coxl gene region.Results: Eleven sampled populations of R. norvegicus were divided into two major clusters by region. The observed heterozygosity values of all regional populations were smaller than expected genetic diversity heterozygosity values and deviated from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium Nine sample populations of R. tanezumi were divided into three clusters; two that included sample from Hainan and Fujian provinces, and one that included samples from the other provinces and cities. The genetic diversity of R. tanezumi was highest in samples from Jiangsu and Guangdong provinces.Conclusion: The data in this paper confirm the two invasive rodent species from the southeastern coastal region of China may have relied on maritime transport to spread from the southern region of China to the Yangtze River basin. R. tanezumi may then hanve migrated unidirectionally, along the southeastern provinces of China towards the north, while R. norvegicus spread in a complex and multidirectional manner in Hainan, Fujian, Zhejiang and Jiangsu Provinces of the country.

Microbial synthesis of carotenoids is a highly desirable alternative to plant extraction and chemical synthesis. In this study, we investigated multidimensional strategies to improve the carotenoid synthesis in the industrial workhorse of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. First, we rewired the yeast central metabolism by optimizing non-oxidative glycolysis pathway for an improved acetyl-CoA supply. Second, we restricted the consumption of farnesyl pyrophosphate (FPP) by the down-regulation of squalene synthase using the PEST degron. Third, we further explored the human lipid binding/transfer protein saposin B (hSapB)-mediated metabolic sink for an enhanced storage of lipophilic carotenoids. Last, the copper-induced GAL expression system was engineered to function in the yeast–peptone–dextrose medium for an increased biomass accumulation. By combining the abovementioned strategies, the final engineered yeast produced 166.79 ± 10.43 mg/l β-carotene in shake flasks, which was nearly 5-fold improvement of the parental carotenoid-producing strain. Together, we envision that multidimensional strategies reported here might be applicable to other hosts for the future industrial development of carotenoid synthesis from renewable feedstocks.

BackgroundPostpartum depression (PPD) is a type of depressive episode related to parents after childbirth, which causes a variety of symptoms not only for parents but also affects the development of children. The causal relationship between potential risk factors and PPD remains comprehensively elucidated.MethodsLinkage disequilibrium score regression (LDSC) analysis was conducted to screen the heritability of each instrumental variant (IV) and to calculate the genetic correlations between effective causal factors and PPD. To search for the causal effect of multiple potential risk factors on the incidence of PPD, random effects of the inverse variance weighted (IVW) method were applied. Sensitivity analyses, including weighted median, MR-Egger regression, Cochrane’s Q test, and MR Pleiotropy Residual Sum and Outlier (MR-PRESSO), were performed to detect potential Mendelian randomization (MR) assumption violations. Multivariable MR (MVMR) was conducted to control potential multicollinearity.ResultsA total of 40 potential risk factors were investigated in this study. LDSC regression analysis reported a significant genetic correlation of potential traits with PPD. MR analysis showed that higher body mass index (BMI) (Benjamini and Hochberg (BH) corrected p = 0.05), major depression (MD) (BH corrected p = 5.04E-19), and schizophrenia (SCZ) (BH corrected p = 1.64E-05) were associated with the increased risk of PPD, whereas increased age at first birth (BH corrected p = 2.11E-04), older age at first sexual intercourse (BH corrected p = 3.02E-15), increased average total household income before tax (BH corrected p = 4.57E-02), and increased years of schooling (BH corrected p = 1.47E-11) led to a decreased probability of PPD. MVMR analysis suggested that MD (p = 3.25E-08) and older age at first birth (p = 8.18E-04) were still associated with an increased risk of PPD.ConclusionIn our MR study, we found multiple risk factors, including MD and younger age at first birth, to be deleterious causal risk factors for PPD.

Background & Aims: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is associated with liver and cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Recently published NAFLD Quality Standards include 11 key performance indicators (KPIs) of good clinical care. This national study, endorsed by British Association for the Study of the Liver (BASL) and British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG), aimed to benchmark NAFLD care in UK hospitals against these KPIs. Methods: This study included all new patients with NAFLD reviewed in the outpatient clinic in the months of March 2019 and March 2022. Participating UK hospitals self-registered for the study through BASL/BSG. KPI outcomes were compared using Fisher’s exact or Chi-square tests. Results: Data from 776 patients with NAFLD attending 34 hospitals (England [25], Scotland [four], Wales [three], Northern Ireland [two]) were collected. A total of 85.3% of hospitals reported established local liver disease assessment pathways, yet only 27.9% of patients with suspected NAFLD had non-invasive fibrosis assessment documented at the point of referral to secondary care. In secondary care, 79.1% of patients had fibrosis assessment. Assessment of cardiometabolic risk factors including obesity, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and smoking were conducted in 73.2%, 33.0%, 19.3%, and 54.9% of all patients, respectively. There was limited documentation of diet (35.7%) and exercise advice (55.1%). Excluding those on statins, only 9.1% of patients with NAFLD at increased cardiovascular risk (T2DM and/or QRISK-3 >10%) had documented discussion of statin treatment. Significant KPI improvements from 2019 to 2022 were evident in use of non-invasive fibrosis assessment before secondary care referral, statin recommendations, and diet and exercise recommendations. Conclusions: This national study identified substantial variation in NAFLD management in the UK with clear areas for improvement, particularly fibrosis risk assessment before secondary care referral and management of associated cardiometabolic risk factors. Impact and implications: This study identified significant variation in the management of NAFLD in the UK. Only 27.9% of patients with suspected NAFLD had non-invasive fibrosis assessment performed to identify those at greater risk of advanced liver disease before specialist referral. Greater emphasis is needed on the management of associated cardiometabolic risk factors in individuals with NAFLD. Hospitals with multidisciplinary NAFLD service provision had higher rates of fibrosis evaluation and assessment and management of cardiometabolic risk than hospitals without multidisciplinary services. Further work is needed to align guideline recommendations and real-world practice in NAFLD care.

Abstract Intrinsically stretchable semiconducting polymers are promising candidates for developing wearable electronics, but remain underdeveloped because the correlation between the microstructural evolution during stretching and the resultant charge transport is not clearly understood. In this study, we clarify the impact of molecular orientation on the dynamic performance of stretched semiconducting polymers, controlling molecular orientations via solvent-dependent spin-coating. We found that strain-enhanced electrical performance is feasible by quelling disorders within the face-on-packed aggregates. Strain facilitates 3D ordering in face-on-packed films, but increase the π-π orientation disorders and lamellar dislocation in the edge-on analogue, which contribute inversely to the charge transport. Consequently, the face-on samples maintain strain-resistant energetic disorder and a 1.5× increase in on-current, achieving a 10-times-higher retention than the edge-on analogue upon 100% strain. Furthermore, we developed a reliable way for measuring the photoelectrical stretchability of semiconducting polymer. This study contributes to developing high-performance stretchable semiconducting polymers.

Abstract Dysregulated ERα signaling is responsible for endocrine resistance and eventual relapse in patients with estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer. Thus, identifying novel ERα regulators is necessary to fully understand the mechanisms of endocrine resistance. Here, we identified circRNA-SFMBT2 to be highly expressed in ER+ breast cancer cells in comparison to ER− cells and found that high circRNA-SFMBT2 levels were related to larger tumor size and poor prognosis in patients with ER+ breast cancer. In vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed that the circRNA-SFMBT2 level was positively correlated with the ERα protein level, implying a regulatory role for circRNA-SFMBT2 in ERα signaling. Moreover, we found that circRNA-SFMBT2 biogenesis could be facilitated via RNA-binding protein quaking (QKI), and biologically elevated circRNA-SFMBT2 expression promoted cell growth and tamoxifen resistance in ER+ breast cancer. Mechanistically, circRNA-SFMBT2 exhibits a specific tertiary structure that endows it with a high binding affinity for ERα and allows it to interact with the AF2 and DBD domains of ERα, enforcing recruitment of RNF181 to the AF1 domain of ERα. Furthermore, the circRNA-SFMBT2/RNF181 axis differentially regulated K48-linked and K63-linked ubiquitination of ERα to enhance ERα stability, resulting in increased expression of ERα target genes and tumor progression. In summary, circRNA-SFMBT2 is an important regulator of ERα signaling, and antagonizing circRNA-SFMBT2 expression may constitute a potential therapeutic strategy for breast cancer.

Abstract Potato virus Y (PVY), Potato virus S (PVS), and Potato virus M (PVM) infection of potato plants leads to decreased dry matter and starch content in tubers. Starch samples from potato tubers infected with PVY, PVS, and PVM had higher amylose content. Granules of starch isolated from potato tubers infected by PVS exhibit larger granules than starch granules isolated from tubers of healthy plants. In contrast, in the case of PVM and PVY infection, starch granules were significantly smaller in diameter. A decrease in the degree of crystallinity has been observed in all samples of starches obtained from the tubers of infected plants compared to starch isolated from tubers of healthy plants. A slight decrease in gelatinization temperature was noted for starch samples isolated from tubers infected by PVY and PVM, and a slight increase in gelatinization temperature for starch samples isolated from tubers infected by PVS compared to starch isolated from tubers of healthy plants. In all samples of starch obtained from tubers of infected plants, an increase in the value of gelatinization enthalpy was observed. Thus, it can be concluded that damage to potato plants by PVM and PVY leads to a significant decrease in the quality of starch in tubers. At the same time, infection by PVS had practically no considerable effect.

Abstract Aqueous zinc batteries are ideal candidates for grid-scale energy storage because of their safety and low-cost aspects. However, the production of large-format aqueous Zn batteries is hindered by electrolyte consumption, hydrogen gas evolution and accumulation, and Zn dendrites growth. To circumvent these issues, here we propose an “open” pouch cell design for large-format production of aqueous Zn batteries, which can release hydrogen gas and allow the refilling of the electrolyte components consumed during cell cycling. The cell uses a gel electrolyte containing crosslinked kappa (k)-carrageenan and chitosan. It bonds water molecules and hinders their side reaction with Zn, preventing electrolyte leakage and fast evaporation. As a proof-of-concept, we report the assembly and testing of a Zn | |ZnxV2O5·nH2O multi-layer “open” pouch cell using the carrageenan/chitosan gel electrolyte, which delivers an initial discharge capacity of 0.9 Ah and 84% capacity retention after 200 cycles at 200 mA g‒1, 370 kPa and 25 °C.

Abstract Background Ferroptosis is an iron-related form of programmed cell death. Accumulating evidence has identified the pathogenic role of ferroptosis in multiple orthopedic disorders. However, the relationship between ferroptosis and SONFH is still unclear. In addition, despite being a common disease in orthopedics, there is still no effective treatment for SONFH. Therefore, clarifying the pathogenic mechanism of SONFH and investigating pharmacologic inhibitors from approved clinical drugs for SONFH is an effective strategy for clinical translation. Melatonin (MT), an endocrine hormone that has become a popular dietary supplement because of its excellent antioxidation, was supplemented from an external source to treat glucocorticoid-induced damage in this study. Methods Methylprednisolone, a commonly used glucocorticoid in the clinic, was selected to simulate glucocorticoid-induced injury in the current study. Ferroptosis was observed through the detection of ferroptosis-associated genes, lipid peroxidation and mitochondrial function. Bioinformatics analysis was performed to explore the mechanism of SONFH. In addition, a melatonin receptor antagonist and shGDF15 were applied to block the therapeutic effect of MT to further confirm the mechanism. Finally, cell experiments and the SONFH rat model were used to detect the therapeutic effects of MT. Results MT alleviated bone loss in SONFH rats by maintaining BMSC activity through suppression of ferroptosis. The results are further verified by the melatonin MT2 receptor antagonist that can block the therapeutic effects of MT. In addition, bioinformatic analysis and subsequent experiments confirmed that growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15), a stress response cytokine, was downregulated in the process of SONFH. On the contrary, MT treatment increased the expression of GDF15 in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. Lastly, rescue experiments performed with shGDF15 confirmed that GDF15 plays a key role in the therapeutic effects of melatonin. Conclusions We proposed that MT attenuated SONFH by inhibiting ferroptosis through the regulation of GDF15, and supplementation with exogenous MT might be a promising method for the treatment of SONFH. Graphical Abstract

Keratins are the main structural protein components of wool fibres, and variation in them and their genes (KRTs) is thought to influence wool structure and characteristics. The PCR–single strand conformation polymorphism technique has been used previously to investigate genetic variation in selected coding and intron regions of the type II sheep keratin gene KRT81, but no variation was identified. In this study, we used the same technique to explore the 5′ untranslated region of KRT81 and detected three sequence variants (A, B and C) that contain four single nucleotide polymorphisms. Among the 389 Merino × Southdown cross sheep investigated, variant B was linked to a reduction in clean fleece weight, while C was associated with an increase in both greasy fleece weight and clean fleece weight. No discernible effects on staple length or mean-fibre-diameter-related traits were observed. These findings suggest that variation in ovine KRT81 might influence wool growth by changing the density of wool follicles in the skin, the density of individual fibres, or the area of the skin producing fibre, as opposed to changing the rate of extrusion of fibres or their diameter.

The species–area relationship is important for understanding species diversity patterns at spatial scales, but few studies have examined the relationship using environmental DNA (eDNA) techniques. We investigated amphibian diversity on 21 islands of the Zhoushan Archipelago and nearby mainland areas in China using the combination of eDNA metabarcoding and the traditional line transect method (TLTM) and identified the species–area relationship for amphibians on the islands. The mean detection probability of eDNA is 0.54, while the mean detection probability of TLTM is 0.24. The eDNA metabarcoding detected eight amphibian species on the islands and nine species in the mainland areas, compared with seven species on the islands and nine species in the mainland areas that were identified by TLTM. Amphibian richness on the islands increased with island area and habitat diversity. The species–area relationship for amphibians in the archipelago was formulated as the power function (S = 0.47A0.21) or exponential function (S = 2.59 + 2.41 (logA)). Our results suggested that eDNA metabarcoding is more sensitive for the detection of amphibian species. The combined use of eDNA metabarcoding and the traditional line transect method may optimize the survey results for amphibians.