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Background: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is renowned for its formidable and lethal nature, earning it a notorious reputation among malignant tumors. Due to its challenging early diagnosis, high malignancy, and resistance to chemotherapy drugs, the treatment of pancreatic cancer has long been exceedingly difficult in the realm of oncology. γ-Glutamyl cyclotransferase (GGCT), a vital enzyme in glutathione metabolism, has been implicated in the proliferation and progression of several tumor types, while the biological function of GGCT in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma remains unknown. Methods: The expression profile of GGCT was validated through western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and RT-qPCR in both pancreatic cancer tissue samples and cell lines. Functional enrichment analyses including GSVA, ssGSEA, GO, and KEGG were conducted to explore the biological role of GGCT. Additionally, CCK8, Edu, colony formation, migration, and invasion assays were employed to evaluate the impact of GGCT on the proliferation and migration abilities of pancreatic cancer cells. Furthermore, the LASSO machine learning algorithm was utilized to develop a prognostic model associated with GGCT. Results: Our study revealed heightened expression of GGCT in pancreatic cancer tissues and cells, suggesting an association with poorer patient prognosis. Additionally, we explored the immunomodulatory effects of GGCT in both pan-cancer and pancreatic cancer contexts, found that GGCT may be associated with immunosuppressive regulation in various types of tumors. Specifically, in patients with high expression of GGCT in pancreatic cancer, there is a reduction in the infiltration of various immune cells, leading to poorer responsiveness to immunotherapy and worse survival rates. In vivo and in vitro assays indicate that downregulation of GGCT markedly suppresses the proliferation and metastasis of pancreatic cancer cells. Moreover, this inhibitory effect appears to be linked to the regulation of GGCT on c-Myc. A prognostic model was constructed based on genes derived from GGCT, demonstrating robust predictive ability for favorable survival prognosis and response to immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large thin-walled parts are generally featured with large in-plane dimension and thin thickness. This kind of parts deforms easily under the action of gravity due to their low out-of-plane stiffness in the assembly process. In order to reduce the part deformation, the "N-2–1" locating principle is used for large thin-walled parts. The part deformation leads to the assembly gap between two parts, which affects the assembly quality. In this paper, the influence of the fixture layout on the assembly gap is considered. The assembly gap is taken as the optimization objective to minimize by integrating the modified direct stiffness method (MDSM) and the improved particle swarm optimization (IPSO) algorithm. Then, the assembly of two ship parts is studied and the results show that the optimization method proposed in this paper can effectively reduce the assembly gap between two large thin-walled parts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Detecting potential depression and identifying the critical predictors of depression among older adults with chronic diseases are essential for timely intervention and management of depression. Therefore, risk prediction models (RPMs) of depression in elderly people should be further explored. A total of 3959 respondents aged 60 years or over from the wave four survey of the China Health and Retired Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) were included in this study. We used five machine learning (ML) algorithms and three data balancing techniques to construct RPMs of depression and calculated feature importance scores to determine which features are essential to depression. The prevalence of depression was 19.2 % among older Chinese adults with chronic diseases in the wave four survey. The random forest (RF) model was more accurate than the other models after balancing the data using the Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE) algorithm, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) and area under the precision-recall curve (AUPRC) of 0.957 and 0.920, respectively, a balanced accuracy of 0.891 and a sensitivity of 0.875. Furthermore, we further identified several important predictors between male and female patients via constructed sex-stratified models. Further research on the clinical impact studies of our models and external validation are needed. After several techniques were used to address class imbalance issues, most RPMs achieved satisfactory accuracy in predicting depression among elderly people with chronic diseases. RPMs may thus become valuable screening tools for both older individuals and healthcare practitioners to assess the risk of depression. • This study aimed to develop models to predict depression and explore the risk factors for depression among different research objects using machine learning methods. • The best-performing models in different populations generated approximately the same set of features (life satisfaction, self-reported health status, sleep duration, vision, etc.). • The prevalence of depression was 19.2 % among older adults with chronic diseases in China. Besides, the depression incidence rate in women was twice as high as that in men (68.4 % vs. 31.6 %). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aims of this study were to investigate the independent risk factors associated with iatrogenic withdrawal syndrome in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) and to establish receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve to facilitate the diagnosis of iatrogenic withdrawal syndrome in clinical settings. Methods: Pediatric patients who received analgesic and sedative medication at a tertiary hospital in the southern Zhejiang region of China between January 2016 and December 2022 were selected for the study. Clinical case data were retrospectively analyzed to gather information including age, gender, weight, total dose of analgesic and sedative medication, total treatment duration, average maintenance dose, and other relevant parameters. Medically induced withdrawal symptom scores were assessed using the Sophia Observation Scale for Withdrawal Symptoms (SOS). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted on the above indicators to identify the risk factors for iatrogenic withdrawal, and an ROC curve was constructed. Results: The study encompassed a total of 104 pediatric patients, comprising 47 patients in the SOS score ≥4 group and 57 patients in the SOS score ≤3 group. The incidence of iatrogenic withdrawal was 45.19%. Univariate analysis identified cumulative total dose of fentanyl, average daily dose of fentanyl, average daily dose of midazolam, and patient weight (p < 0.05) as factors associated with iatrogenic withdrawal syndrome. The logistic multiple regression analysis revealed that the average daily dose of fentanyl was an independent risk factor for the occurrence of iatrogenic withdrawal syndrome in critically ill children (p < 0.05). ROC curve analysis indicated an area under the curve of 0.711 (95% CI: 0.610–0.811) with sensitivity and specificity of 73.7% and 61.7%, respectively. Conclusion: The average daily maintenance dose of fentanyl holds significant clinical value in diagnosing and evaluating the prognosis of iatrogenic withdrawal syndrome and can provide a scientific foundation for enhancing sedative and analgesic management in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The involvement of quality of life as the UNAIDS fourth 90 target to monitor the global HIV response highlighted the development of patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures to help address the holistic needs of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) beyond viral suppression. This study developed and tested preliminary measurement properties of a new patient-reported outcome (PROHIV-OLD) measure designed specifically to capture influences of HIV on patients aged 50 and older in China. Methods: Ninety-three older people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) were interviewed to solicit items and two rounds of patient cognitive interviews were conducted to modify the content and wording of the initial items. A validation study was then conducted to refine the initial instrument and evaluate measurement properties. Patients were recruited between February 2021 and November 2021, and followed six months later after the first investigation. Classical test theory (CTT) and item response theory (IRT) were used to select items using the baseline data. The follow-up data were used to evaluate the measurement properties of the final instrument. Results: A total of 600 patients were recruited at the baseline. Of the 485 patients who completed the follow-up investigation, 483 were included in the validation sample. The final scale of PROHIV-OLD contained 25 items describing five dimensions (physical symptoms, mental status, illness perception, family relationship, and treatment). All the PROHIV-OLD dimensions had satisfactory reliability with Cronbach's alpha coefficient, McDonald's ω, and composite reliability of each dimension being all higher than 0.85. Most dimensions met the test-retest reliability standard except for the physical symptoms dimension (ICC = 0.64). Confirmatory factor analysis supported the structural validity of the final scale, and the model fit index satisfied the criterion. The correlations between dimensions of PROHIV-OLD and MOS-HIV met hypotheses in general. Significant differences on scores of the PROHIV-OLD were found between demographic and clinical subgroups, supporting known-groups validity. Conclusions: The PROHIV-OLD was found to have good feasibility, reliability and validity for evaluating health outcome of Chinese older PLWHA. Other measurement properties such as responsiveness and interpretability will be further examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The endometrium of most unexplained infertility (UI) patients has been altered histologically. Shear wave elastography (SWE) is utilized to assess the signature of living tissue. This study aimed to explore the value of SWE in evaluating endometrial receptivity (ER) in UI patients. Methods: In total, 59 UI patients (UI group) and 52 normal control women (NC group) who received fertility consultation in our hospital were included between January 2022 and June 2023. We divided them into the late-proliferative phase of UI group (LPUI; n = 59), mid-secretory phase of UI group (MPUI; n = 41), late-proliferative phase of NC group (LPNC; n = 52), and mid-secretory phase of NC group (MPNC; n = 45). Transvaginal ultrasonography and SWE were performed during the LP and MP. Endometrial thickness (EMT), uterine artery pulsatility index (UA-PI), endometrial mean elasticity (E-mean), and mean shear wave velocities (SWV-mean) were measured. Results: There were significant differences in E-mean, SWV-mean, EMT, and UA-PI between the UI group and the NC group during both the LP and MP (p MPNC vs MPUI < 0.05, p LPNC vs LPUI < 0.05). E-mean and SWV-mean decreased with increasing EMT but increased with increasing UA-PI (p < 0.05). The most effective parameter for evaluating ER in UI patients is the E-mean (AUC = 0.89). Conclusions: UI patients exhibited thinner endometrium, increased endometrial stiffness, and poor endometrial blood perfusion. E-mean was the most effective parameter to evaluate ER in UI patients. The study preliminarily proved that SWE is a promising non-invasive tool for evaluating the condition of endometrium. Critical relevance statement: This study aimed to explore the significance of endometrial elasticity measured by SWE in evaluating patients with UI. The findings revealed a correlation between EMT, UA-PI, and E-mean. Endometrial elasticity can serve as an effective indicator for predicting ER. Key points: 1. To explore the significance of endometrial elasticity in assessing patients with UI. 2. The endometrium of UI patient exhibited thinness, stiffness, and poor blood perfusion. 3. Endometrial elasticity serves as a valuable indicator for evaluating endometrial receptivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammation is a well-known risk factor for tumor development. Intervening in chronic inflammation may be an effective approach to inhibit the progression of ulcerative colitis (UC) to colitis-associated colon cancer (CAC). Sophora japonica is a medicinal and food plant commonly used to treat hemorrhoids, bleeding, and inflammation, symptoms that coincide with those of patients with CAC. However, studies on using Sophora japonica to treat CAC are scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory and antitumor effects of Sophora japonica extract (SJE) using dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced UC and azoxymethane (AOM)/DSS-induced CAC models. Furthermore, we employed ultraperformance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time-of-flight–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC–QTOF–MS/MS) technology to explore the metabolomics mechanism through which SJE inhibited the progression of UC to CAC. The results demonstrated that SJE significantly inhibited UC and CAC and alleviated symptoms such as bloody stools, colon shortening, inflammation, and intestinal tissue damage in model mice. Further, 57 differential metabolites were identified by UPLC–QTOF–MS/MS, which were composed mainly of lipids (fatty acids, glycerophospholipids, sterol lipids, pregnenolone lipids, etc.) and peptides (amino acids). Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis suggested that SJE might inhibit the progression of UC to CAC by regulating lipid metabolic pathways such as arachidonic acid metabolism, primary bile acid biosynthesis, and linoleic acid metabolism. This study, for the first time, substantiated the inhibitory effect of SJE on CAC. Employing metabolomics techniques, the research delved into the potential pathways through which SJE may exert its inhibitory effects on CAC by suppressing the progression of UC. These findings contribute scientific evidence to the application of Sophora japonica in functional foods and the development of natural drugs for the prevention and treatment of UC and CAC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. Our previous study found that it could significantly increase the expression of IL32 after stimulating the human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (S-HuMSCs). However, its role on the osteogenesis and cranial bone regeneration is still largely unknown. Here, we investigated the possible mechanism of this effect. Material and Methods. A series of experiments, including single-cell sequencing, flow cytometry, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and western blotting, were carried out to evaluate the characteristic and adipogenic–osteogenic differentiation potential of IL-32 overexpression HuMSCs (IL-32highHuMSCs) through mediating the P38 signaling pathway. Moreover, a rat skull bone defect model was established and treated by directly injecting the IL-32highHuMSCs to conduct its role on the cranial bone regeneration. Results. In total, it found that compared to HuMSCs, IL32 was significantly increased and promoted the osteogenic differentiation (lower expressions of PPARγ, Adiponectin, and C/EBPα, and increased expressions of RUNX2, ALP, BMP2, OPN, SP7, OCN, and DLX5) in the S-HuMSCs (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, the enhanced osteogenic differentiation of HuMSCs was recovered by IL-32 overexpression (IL-32highHuMSCs) through activating the P38 signaling pathway, like as the S-HuMSCs (P < 0.05). However, the osteogenic differentiation potential of IL-32highHuMSCs was significantly reversed by the P38 signaling pathway inhibitor SB203580 (P < 0.05). Additionally, the HuMSCs, S-HuMSCs, and IL-32highHuMSCs all presented adipogenic–osteogenic differentiation potential, with higher levels of CD73, CD90, and CD105, and lower CD14, CD34, and CD45 (P > 0.05). Furthermore, these findings were confirmed by the rat skull bone defect model, in which the cranial bone regeneration was more pronounced in the IL-32highHuMSCs treated group compared to those in the HuMSCs group, with higher expressions of RUNX2, ALP, BMP2, and DLX5 (P < 0.05). Conclusion. We have confirmed that S-HuMSCs can enhance the osteogenesis and cranial bone regeneration through promoting IL-32-mediated P38 signaling pathway, which is proved that IL-32 may be a therapeutic target, or a biomarker for the treatment of cranial bone injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seeking new cathode chemistry with high onset potential and compatibility with electrolytes has become a challenge for aqueous Zn ion batteries. Anion intercalation in graphite (4.5 V vs Li+/Li) possesses the potentiality but usually shows a competitive relationship with oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in aqueous solutions. Herein, a decoupled design is proposed to optimize a full utilization of perchlorate ion intercalation in graphite cathode by pH adjustment. Benefiting from the decoupled design, high Coulombic efficiency is obtained by decelerating the kinetic of OER in acidic media. The decoupled Zn‐graphite battery exhibits a wide potential window of 2.01 V, as well as an attractive energy density of 231 Wh kg−1. In addition, a Zn‐graphite battery with SO42−${\mathrm{SO}}_4^{2 - }$ insertion is assembled, which demonstrates the capability of the proposed decoupled strategy to integrate novel electrode chemistries for high‐performance aqueous Zn‐based energy storage systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the resting state, cortical neurons can fire action potentials spontaneously but synchronously (Up state), followed by a quiescent period (Down state) before the cycle repeats. Extracellular recordings in the infragranular layer of cortex with a micro‐electrode display a negative deflection (depth‐negative) during Up states and a positive deflection (depth‐positive) during Down states. The resulting slow wave oscillation (SWO) has been studied extensively during sleep and under anaesthesia. However, recent research on the balanced nature of synaptic excitation and inhibition has highlighted our limited understanding of its genesis. Specifically, are excitation and inhibition balanced during SWOs? We analyse spontaneous local field potentials (LFPs) during SWOs recorded from anaesthetised rats via a multi‐channel laminar micro‐electrode and show that the Down state consists of two distinct synaptic states: a Dynamic Down state associated with depth‐positive LFPs and a prominent dipole in the extracellular field, and a Static Down state with negligible (≈0mV$ \approx 0{\mathrm{\;mV}}$) LFPs and a lack of dipoles extracellularly. We demonstrate that depth‐negative and ‐positive LFPs are generated by a shift in the balance of synaptic excitation and inhibition from excitation dominance (depth‐negative) to inhibition dominance (depth‐positive) in the infragranular layer neurons. Thus, although excitation and inhibition co‐tune overall, differences in their timing lead to an alternation of dominance, manifesting as SWOs. We further show that Up state initiation is significantly faster if the preceding Down state is dynamic rather than static. Our findings provide a coherent picture of the dependence of SWOs on synaptic activity. Key points: Cortical neurons can exhibit repeated cycles of spontaneous activity interleaved with periods of relative silence, a phenomenon known as 'slow wave oscillation' (SWO).During SWOs, recordings of local field potentials (LFPs) in the neocortex show depth‐negative deflection during the active period (Up state) and depth‐positive deflection during the silent period (Down state).Here we further classified the Down state into a dynamic phase and a static phase based on a novel method of classification and revealed non‐random, stereotypical sequences of the three states occurring with significantly different transitional kinetics.Our results suggest that the positive and negative deflections in the LFP reflect the shift of the instantaneous balance between excitatory and inhibitory synaptic activity of the local cortical neurons.The differences in transitional kinetics may imply distinct synaptic mechanisms for Up state initiation.The study may provide a new approach for investigating spontaneous brain rhythms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LR004 is a novel chimeric (human/mouse) monoclonal antibody developed for the treatment of advanced colorectal carcinoma with detectable epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression. We aimed to investigate the preclinical pharmacokinetics (PK) and in vivo biodistribution of LR004. The PK profiles of LR004 were initially established in rhesus monkeys. Subsequently, 125I radionuclide-labeled LR004 was developed and the biodistribution, autoradiography, and NanoSPECT/CT of 125I-LR004 in xenograft mice bearing A431 tumors were examined. The PK data revealed a prolonged half-life and nonlinear PK characteristics of LR004 within the dose range of 6–54 mg/kg. The radiochemical purity of 125I-LR004 was approximately 98.54%, and iodination of LR004 did not affect its specific binding activity to the EGFR antigen. In a classical biodistribution study, 125I-LR004 exhibited higher uptake in highly perfused organs than in poorly perfused organs. Prolonged retention properties of 125I-LR004 in tumors were observed at 4 and 10 days. Autoradiography and NanoSPECT/CT confirmed the sustained retention of 125I-LR004 at the tumor site in xenograft mice. These findings demonstrated the adequate tumor targeting capabilities of 125I-LR004 in EGFR-positive tumors, which may improve dosing strategies and future drug development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Although multiple new cancer treatments have emerged in recent years, drug therapy, mainly comprising chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, remains the most common approach. The multidrug resistance (MDR) of cancer cells to various treatments remains a challenge. Scientists have always focused on the acquired drug resistance mechanisms of tumor cells themselves. However, recent evidence shows that the tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a critical role in regulating tumor cell progression, metastasis, immune escape, and drug resistance. In the TME, interactions between cancer cells and non-malignant cells often modify the TME and facilitate drug resistance. Therefore, elucidating this complex interaction mechanism is essential for the development of effective treatments. This review focuses on the role of the TME in promoting chemoresistance in tumor cells through the following mechanisms: (i) inhibiting the immune clearance of tumor cells and facilitating immune escape responses; (ii) stimulating the release of soluble paracrine factors to enhance tumor survival and growth; (iii) promoting survival and altering drug delivery through metabolic reprogramming; (iv) obstructing drug absorption by inducing changes in stomatal cells and blood vessels surrounding the tumor; and (v) inducing the cancer stem cell phenotype. This review also addresses a clinical treatment strategy for targeting the TME, providing insights and a basis for reversing multidrug resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Oral gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists are promising agents in the treatment of endometriosis-related pain. Here we assessed the safety, pharmacokinetics (PK), and pharmacodynamics (PD) of SHR7280, an oral non-peptide GnRH antagonist in premenopausal women with endometriosis. Methods: In the Phase 1 part of the randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, dose-ascending, Phase 1/2 trial, premenopausal women with endometriosis were randomized (4:1) to receive SHR7280 or placebo treatment for 21 consecutive days. The treatment dose started from 200 mg QD, and then increased to 300 mg QD and 200 mg BID. Safety, PK, and PD parameters were assessed. Results: In total, 30 patients received assigned treatment, 24 with SHR7280 and 6 with placebo. SHR7280 was well tolerated. Adverse events (AEs) were reported in 19 (79.2%, 19/24) patients in the SHR7280 group and 5 (83.3%, 5/6) patients in the placebo group. Most AEs were mild and no severe AEs occurred. SHR7280 showed a rapid absorption, with a time to maximum plasma concentration (Tmax) of 1.0 h, 1.0 h, and 0.8 h for the 200 mg QD, 300 mg QD, and 200 mg BID regimens, respectively. Plasma concentration of SHR7280 was dose dependent. The mean half-life (t1/2) at steady state was 6.9 h, 7.4 h, and 2.8 h, respectively, and little or no accumulation was observed. Pharmacodynamic analysis showed that SHR7280 could effectively suppress estradiol and luteinizing hormone concentrations and prevent progesterone increase in a dose-dependent manner. SHR7280 at doses of 300 mg QD and 200 mg BID could suppress estradiol levels within the desired therapeutic window of 20–50 pg/mL throughout the treatment period. Conclusions: SHR7280 showed favorable safety, PK, and PD profiles in the doses of 200 mg QD, 300 mg QD, and 200 mg BID. The results of this study provide evidence to support the further development of SHR7280 as a GnRH antagonist for the treatment of endometriosis-related pain in the subsequent Phase 2 trial. Trial Registry: Trial registration number: Clinicaltrials.gov, identifier: NCT04417972. Trial registration date: 5 June 2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many implantable drug delivery systems (IDDS) have been developed for long-term, pulsatile drug release. However, they are often limited by bulky size, complex electronic components, unpredictable drug delivery, as well as the need for battery replacement and consequent replacement surgery. Here, we develop an implantable magnetically-actuated capsule (IMAC) and its portable magnetic actuator (MA) for on-demand and robust drug delivery in a tether-free and battery-free manner. IMAC utilizes the bistable mechanism of two magnetic balls inside IMAC to trigger drug delivery under a strong magnetic field (| B a | > 90 mT), ensuring precise and reproducible drug delivery (9.9 ± 0.17 μg per actuation, maximum actuation number: 180) and excellent anti-magnetic capability (critical trigger field intensity: ∼90 mT). IMAC as a tetherless robot can navigate to and anchor at the lesion sites driven by a gradient magnetic field (∇ B g = 3 T/m, | B g | < 60 mT), and on-demand release drug actuated by a uniform magnetic field (| B a | = ∼100 mT) within the gastrointestinal tract. During a 15-day insulin administration in vivo , the diabetic rats treated with IMAC exhibited highly similar pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles to those administrated via subcutaneous injection, demonstrating its robust and on-demand drug release performance. Moreover, IMAC is biocompatible, batter-free, refillable, miniature (only Φ 6.3 × 12.3 mm3), and lightweight (just 0.8 g), making it an ideal alternative for precise implantable drug delivery and friendly patient-centered drug administration. [Display omitted] • An Implantable Magnetically-Actuated Capsule (IMAC) was developed for on-demand drug delivery. • IMAC utilizes the bistable mechanism of two magnetic balls to trigger drug release. • IMAC exhibits precise drug delivery performance and good anti-magnetic capability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xianbei was one of the most powerful nomadic groups in Eastern Eurasia since the collapse of the Xiongnu empire. However, owing to a lack of first-hand written records, the origins of Xianbei and their relationships with surrounding populations remain enigmatic. Here, we produce genomic data of nine Xianbei individuals (ca. 200 CE to 300 CE) from northern China. By combining the available genomes in the literature, we assemble a database that covers almost the entire period of Xianbei as well as samples pre- and post-dating them, allowing us to set the Xianbei in a temporal context. Our study decisively addresses a longstanding hypothesis and supports that the Xianbei was originated from the Amur River region, more specifically from far northeastern China around the Great Khingan Mountain ranges. We also provide direct genetic evidence that during their initial process of moving southward toward the Central Plains of China, Xianbei only received limited exogenous genetic contribution from the local population they encountered, but after settling in northern China, Xianbei not only transformed from nomadic tribes to sedentary agriculturalists but also genetically admixed into the local residents there. In sum, our study represents the inaugural genomic exploration into the origins of the Xianbei, affirms the profound historical connection between the Xianbei and ancient Han Chinese communities, and elucidates the dynamic population history of northern China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to frequent traffic accidents around the world, people often take out car insurance to mitigate their losses and receive compensation in a traffic accident. However, in the existing car insurance claims process, there are problems such as insurance fraud, inability to effectively track and transmit insurance data, cumbersome insurance procedures, and high insurance data storage costs. Since the immutability and traceability features of blockchain technology can prevent data manipulation and trace past data, we have used the Elliptic Curve Digital Signature Algorithm (ECDSA) to sign and encrypt car insurance data, ensuring both data integrity and security. We propose a blockchain and IPFS-based anticounterfeiting and traceable car insurance claims system to improve the above problems. We incorporate the Interplanetary File System (IPFS) to reduce the cost of storing insurance data. This study also attempts to propose an arbitration mechanism in the event of a car insurance dispute. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This comprehensive review explores recent catalyst advancements for the hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) of aromatic oxygenates derived from lignin, with a specific focus on the selective production of valuable aromatics under moderate reaction conditions. It addresses critical challenges in bio-crude oil upgrading, encompassing issues related to catalyst deactivation from coking, methods to mitigate deactivation, and techniques for catalyst regeneration. The study investigates various oxygenates found in bio-crude oil, such as phenol, guaiacol, anisole, and catechol, elucidating their conversion pathways during HDO. The review emphasizes the paramount importance of selectively generating arenes by directly cleaving C–O bonds while avoiding unwanted ring hydrogenation pathways. A comparative analysis of different bio-crude oil upgrading processes underscores the need to enhance biofuel quality for practical applications. Additionally, the review focuses on catalyst design for HDO. It compares six major catalyst categories, including metal sulfides, transition metals, metal phosphides, nitrides, carbides, and oxides, to provide insights for efficient bio-crude oil upgrading toward sustainable and eco-friendly energy alternatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the role of the miR-871-5p/proliferator-activated receptor α (PGC1α) pathway in ameliorating hepatic steatosis. We examined miR-871-5p expression in liver tissues of aging mice and AML12 senescent cells co-induced by low serum and palmitic acid (PA). Bioinformatics and multiple experiments were employed to validate the expression level of the target gene PGC1α for miR-871-5p. In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential role of miR-871-5p in regulating hepatic lipid deposition associated with aging. To do so, we performed in vitro transfection of both miR-871-5p mimic and inhibitor into senescent hepatocytes. Our results showed that miR-871-5p could inhibit PGC1α expression and cause lipid deposition in the liver due to aging. miR-871-5p controls this process by regulating PGC1α/fatty acid β-oxidation. H&E staining displayed the appearance of fat vacuoles in the livers of aging mice, and fatty acid β-oxidation-related genes (acyl-coenzyme A oxidase 1 carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1α and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α) expression was significantly reduced. Lipogenic genes (sterol regulatory element binding protein 1C and fatty acid synthase) expression level was increased in the livers of aging mice. In AML12 cells co-induced by low serum and PA, miR-871-5p mimics decreased PGC1α expression and increased lipid droplet accumulation in senescent hepatocytes. Conversely, miR-871-5p inhibitor promoted PGC1α expression and reduced lipid deposition in senescent hepatocytes. Our findings suggest that inhibiting miR-871-5p could be crucial in ameliorating aging-associated hepatic steatosis. These findings offer valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms driving hepatic steatosis in aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boehmeria formosana, with its related species, demonstrates anti-glycemic effect, inhibition of HBV production, anticancer activities, etc. Some indolizidine alkaloids from the same genus are bioactive but sensitive to light. To overcome this problem and obtain more phenanthroindolizidine alkaloids, isolation was performed in darkness, yielding 10 new indolizidine alkaloids and 17 known compounds. Among them, seven enhanced glucagon-like receptor 1 (GLP-1) activity at 50 mM, especially 14 and 6 (3.5- and 2.3-fold than the negative control). This procedure yielded bioactive indolizidine alkaloids with novel structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relation between hypoalbuminemia and coronary artery disease (CAD) has been established. However, the association of increased albumin level and outcomes of CAD has not been investigated. There were 14 994 CAD patients from the PRACTICE study, which is a large, single center prospective cohort study based on case records and follow-up registry performed in the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University from Dec. 2016 to Oct. 2021 in the present study. All the 14 994 patients were divided into five categories according albumin levels: <35 g/L group (n = 1 478), 35–40 g/L group (n = 5 007), 40–45 g/L group (n = 6 076), 45–50 g/L group (n = 1 835), and ≥50 g/L group (n = 598). A total of 448 all-cause deaths(ACD), 333 cardiac deaths (CD), 1 162 MACEs and 1 276 MACCEs were recorded during up to 60-months follow-up period. After adjusting for confounders, we observed a non-linear relation for either MACE or MACCE with the lowest risk at 45 g/L of albumin levels. A threshold value of albumin ≥50 g/L was associated with an increased risk for either MACE (adjusted HR=1.617, 95%CI:1.130–2.315, P = 0.009) or MACCE (adjusted HR= 1.439, 95%CI: 1.007–2.056, P = 0.045) in multivariable Cox regression model. For mortality, we only found decreased (<35 g/L) but not increased albumin level was associated with either ACD (HR=2.744, 95%CI: 1.631–4.617, P <0.001) or CD (HR=2.736, 95%CI: 1.484–5.045, P = 0.001). In the present study, a U-shaped curve relation was identified between albumin levels and MACE and MACCE in CAD patients, with the lowest risk at 45 g/L levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Crohn's disease (CD) is a progressive inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract associated with malnutrition, high levels of inflammation and calcium and magnesium deficiencies. However, the relationships between these symptoms are poorly defined. Method: Seventy‐six adult CD patients who had not yet started treatment and 83 healthy volunteers were recruited. The dietary intakes, serum calcium and magnesium levels, nutritional indicators and biochemical markers of disease activity were measured. Results: Most participants had inadequate magnesium and calcium intake. The serum magnesium and calcium levels, as well as nutritional and inflammatory indicators, differed significantly between CD patients and controls, especially in the active phase. Serum levels of magnesium and calcium correlated with both nutritional status and inflammation. The cut‐off values for CD development were 0.835 mmol/L (magnesium) and 2.315 mmol/L (calcium), whereas those for the active phase were 0.785 and 2.28 mmol/L, respectively. Conclusion: Adequate intake of magnesium and calcium may both improve the nutritional status of CD patients and reduce inflammation, benefiting disease relief. As both magnesium and calcium reflect CD status, they may be useful markers for CD diagnosis and disease activity. Highlights: CD patients suffer sustained calcium and magnesium deficiencies in both remission and active phase.The intake of dietary calcium and magnesium in Chinese CD patients is seriously inadequate.Serum magnesium and calcium levels can be used as biomarkers for the assessment of CD and its activity.Serum magnesium and calcium levels can act as a bridge between the nutritional and inflammatory conditions in CD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jujube peel pigment (JP), an ideal natural water‐soluble pigment extracted from jujube peel, mainly consists of flavonoids and possesses a wide range of physiological activities. In this study, JP‐loaded multivesicular liposomes (JP‐MVL) were prepared using the double emulsification method. JP‐MVL was characterized, and its encapsulation efficiency was determined using the UV‐Vis method. Furthermore, the release behavior and antioxidant capacity of JP‐MVL were evaluated in vitro. The results displayed in the structure of JP‐MVL were spherical with internal vesicles; the average particle size of JP‐MVL was 5.63 μm, and the zeta potential was −69.50 mV. Analysis of the release results indicated that the best‐fitting models in PBS (Phosphate buffered saline pH 7.4) and 0.9% NaCl were the Higuchi and first‐order kinetic models, respectively. The cytotoxicity of JP‐MVL at the appropriate concentrations was negligible and had a good protective effect against UVB‐induced photodamage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a multi-factor complex trait and is heritable, especially in early-onset families. However, the genetic factors affecting the susceptibility of early-onset CAD are not fully characterized. Methods: In the present study, we identified a rare nonsense variant in the CYP17A1 gene from a Chinese Han family with CAD. To validate the effect of this variation on atherosclerosis and early-onset coronary artery disease, we conducted studies on population, cells, and mice. Results: The mutation precisely congregated with the clinical syndrome in all the affected family members and was absent in unaffected family members and unrelated controls. Similar to the human phenotype, the CYP17A1-deficient mice present the phenotype of metabolic syndrome with hypertension, increased serum glucose concentration, and presentation of central obesity and fatty liver. Furthermore, CYP17A1 knockout mice or CYP17A1 + ApoE double knockout mice developed more atherosclerotic lesions than wild type (WT) with high fat diary. In cell models, CYP17A1 was found to be involved in glucose metabolism by increasing glucose intake and utilization, through activating IGF1/mTOR/HIF1-α signaling way, which was consistent in CYP17A1 knockout mice with impaired glucose tolerance and insulin resistance. Conclusions: Through our study of cells, mice and humans, we identified CYP17A1 as a key protein participating in the pathophysiology of the atherosclerotic process and the possible mechanism of CYP17A1 C987X mutation induced atherosclerosis and early-onset CAD involving glucose homeostasis regulation was revealed. 4TTV6qaEtBhVuN78SSsyWi Video Abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium metal batteries (NMBs) have attracted increasing attention as next‐generation rechargeable batteries. How to improve their cycling stability and safety under limited sodium excess conditions, ideally zero sodium excess (i.e., anode‐free architecture), is highly desired yet remains challenging. Herein, it is demonstrated that sodium formate (HCOONa), one component of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) naturally formed on sodium metal anode, is a promising candidate for designing high‐performance artificial SEI layers, which can suppress the sodium dendrite formation and reduce the side reactions between sodium and the electrolyte. Profiting from the HCOONa interface, the Na|Na3V2(PO4)3 battery with a high mass loading of Na3V2(PO4)3 (10 mg cm−2) exhibits a superior cycling stability with an ultralow decay rate of 0.004% per cycle over 800 cycles. More impressively, a single molecular layer of HCOONa in situ formed on commercial copper current collector helps to extend the lifespan of the anode‐free Cu|Na3V2(PO4)3 battery to 400 cycles with 88.2% capacity relation, representing the longest cycle lifetime reported in anode‐free NMBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored the language learning motivation of a small group of five university students in the UK through the constructs of Dornyei's L2 Motivational Self System and Henry's notion of 'the ideal multilingual self'. The five participants, all successful language learners at school, chose to specialise in modern languages at university and in addition to the foreign languages they had previously learned, decided to study Chinese. Interviews were conducted in the final year of the participants' university course and their motivational changes during the course of studying Chinese were explored. The results revealed that two students who achieved remarkable success in learning Chinese came to possess a strong desire to integrate in Chinese society, linked to a longer period spent studying in the target language country. We suggest that integrative orientation is a significant component in maintaining the ideal L2 self, especially when a psychological and physical distance exists in relation to the target language, its culture and the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To construct and validate a contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT)–based radiomics nomogram to predict Ki-67 expression level in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Methods: A total of 217 patients with HNSCC who underwent CECT scans and immunohistochemical examination of their Ki-67 index were enrolled in this study. The patients were divided into a training set (n = 140; Ki-67: ≥ 50% [n = 72] and < 50% [n = 68]) and an external test set (n = 77; Ki-67: ≥ 50% [n = 38] and < 50% [n = 39]). The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator method was used to select key features for a CECT-image-based radiomics signature and a radiomics score (Rad-score) was calculated. A clinical model was established using clinical data and CT findings. The independent clinical factors and Rad-score were then combined to construct a radiomics nomogram. The performance characteristics of the Rad-score, clinical model, and nomogram were assessed using ROCs and decision curve analysis. Results: Twenty features were finally selected to construct the Rad-score. The radiomics nomogram incorporating the Rad-score, low histological grade, and lymphatic spread showed higher predictive value for the Ki-67 index (≥ 50% vs. < 50%) than the clinical model on both the training (AUC, 0.919 vs. 0.648, p < 0.001) and test (AUC, 0.832 vs. 0.685, p = 0.030) sets. Decision curve analysis demonstrated that the radiomics nomogram was more clinically useful than the clinical model. Conclusions: A CECT-based radiomics nomogram was constructed to predict the expression of Ki-67 in HNSCC. This model showed favorable predictive efficacy and might be useful for prognostic evaluation and clinical decision-making in patients with HNSCC. Key Points: • Accurate pre-treatment prediction of Ki-67 index in HNSCC is crucial. • A CECT-based radiomics nomogram showed favorable predictive efficacy in estimation of Ki-67 expression status in HNSCC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infrared (IR) small-target-detection performance restricts the development of infrared search and track (IRST) systems. Existing detection methods easily lead to missed detection and false alarms under complex backgrounds and interference, and only focus on the target position while ignoring the target shape features, which cannot further identify the category of IR targets. To address these issues and guarantee a certain runtime, a weighted local difference variance measure (WLDVM) algorithm is proposed. First, Gaussian filtering is used to preprocess the image by using the idea of a matched filter to purposefully enhance the target and suppress noise. Then, the target area is divided into a new tri-layer filtering window according to the distribution characteristics of the target area, and a window intensity level (WIL) is proposed to represent the complexity level of each layer of windows. Secondly, a local difference variance measure (LDVM) is proposed, which can eliminate the high-brightness background through the difference-form, and further use the local variance to make the target area appear brighter. The background estimation is then adopted to calculate the weighting function to determine the shape of the real small target. Finally, a simple adaptive threshold is used after obtaining the WLDVM saliency map (SM) to capture the true target. Experiments on nine groups of IR small-target datasets with complex backgrounds illustrate that the proposed method can effectively solve the above problems, and its detection performance is better than seven classic and widely used methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycerol is inevitably produced as a byproduct during biological diesel oil production and petrochemical production. This study was aimed to investigate the effects of CO 2 concentration in headspace (CO 2 %), hydraulic retention time (HRT), organic loading rate (OLR) on H 2 consumption and volatile fatty acids (VFA) production as well as the role of homoacetogenesis during glycerol fermentation. For the first time, a homoacetogenesis quantification formula was established to calculate H 2 consumption and acetic acid (HAc) production during glycerol fermentation, namely, [H 2 ] = [EtOH]–2[PrOH]+3[HAc a ]–4[HAc b ]+4[HBu]. H 2 consumed by homoacetogenesis accounted for 6.73%–76.10% of the total H 2 , and HAc produced from homoacetogenesis occupied at least 30.91% of total HAc. The production of propyl alcohol had a negative effect on homoacetogenesis. The interaction between OLR and CO 2 % had an extremely significant effect on both VFA production and H 2 yield. The maximum VFA production and H 2 yield were 4454.638 mg/d and 0.396 mol-H 2 /mol-glycerol add , respectively. [Display omitted] • Quantification formula of homoacetogenesis for glycerol is established. • 6.73%–76.10% H 2 was consumed and 30.91% HAc was produced by homoacetogenesis. • The production of PrOH had a negative effect on homoacetogen-esis. • Removing CO 2 from fermentation plant can increase H 2 production. • The optimal reaction conditions for VFA and H 2 production are different. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"Prospection" refers to the ability to mentally simulate one's future episodes. Negative bias in prospection, which includes both reduced positivity and enhanced negativity, is considered to be closely related to the development and maintenance of depression. However, there is a relative paucity of measures that adequately assess negative bias in prospection in depressed people. The current study developed and initially validated the Negative Bias in Prospection Scale (NBPS) using a nonclinical sample (n = 959). The validity and reliability of the NBPS were investigated in several ways. Results suggested the 14 NBPS items loaded onto three factors, namely the "Increased negativity," the "Reduced positivity," and the "Overgeneralization." The NBPS demonstrated decent internal consistency and test–retest reliability. Further, the NBPS was strongly associated with severity of depressive symptoms. Moreover, the NBPS was correlated in a theoretically meaningful way with other measures of future‐oriented cognitions or negative biases. In conclusion, the NBPS has promising preliminary psychometric properties. It will be an efficient tool for exploring dysfunctional prospection in depression and provides a novel measure for mechanism of change in prospection‐based interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transumbilical laparoendoscopic single-site surgery (TU-LESS) is a new and evolving surgical method suitable for gynecological diseases, because of its minimal invasion and good cosmetic results. However, since the incision required for this procedure is longer than that for traditional laparoscopy, it may be associated with a higher incidence of postoperative incision complications, such as umbilical hernia, infection, hematoma, and poor wound healing. Moreover, the patient may be left with a misshapen umbilicus because intensive surgery is performed through a single umbilical incision. To minimize the incisional complications and meet patients' cosmetic expectations, we designed a novel suturing technique, named "Zheng's anchor suture technique". This video demonstrates the specific steps and shows photographs of patients' umbilici that were sutured by this technique, taken after recovery from various operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liquid trimethoxy silane-functionalized cis-polybutadiene (cis-PB-Si(OMe)3), possessing number-average molecular weights of cis-PB segments (Mn,PB) ranging from 1800 g/mol to 5400 g/mol, with cis-1,4 content of ca. 80% and high functionality (>96%) could be synthesized by coordination copolymerization of living cis-PB chain ends with ethenyltrimethoxy-silane with neodymium-based catalytic system. The silicon hydroxyl-functionalized cis-polybutadiene (cis-PB-Si(OH)3)-based micelles in water have been achieved by in situ hydrolysis of cis-PB-Si(OMe)3 in hexane/water mixture (pH=6.8) at 70 °C and by sequential removal of residue hexane. The size of the above micelles with soft elastic cis-PB cores could be remarkably enlarged by loading SiO2 nanoparticles on their surfaces via hydrogen bonding interaction. Giant supramolecular long chain aggregates or networks formed by hydrogen bonding interaction and possible O—Si—O chemical bonds between cis-PB-Si(OH)3-based micellar surfaces had relatively large size and thus precipitated from water after several months of storage, leading to production of cis-PB-Si(OH)3 solid elastomer with extremely low Tg at −107.0 °C. The left cis-PB-Si(OH)3-based micelles in water with relatively small size gradually formed the water-insoluble cis-PB-Si(OH)3-based supramolecular aggregates or networks. The cis-PB-Si(OH)3-based supramolecular elastomer exhibited excellent self-healing property within 60 s at 25 °C. The elastomer (20 mg) in a joint of 25 mm × 30 mm (2.7 mg/cm2) provided very strong adhesion for two pieces of glass and the bound glass keep unchanged at room temperature for 98 h even hung with 100 g of steel column below. The cis-PB-Si(OH)3-based supramolecular elastomer would have potential applications in adhesives, self-healing materials, damping materials and elastic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The human visual system (HVS) mechanism has been successfully introduced into the field of infrared small target detection. However, most of the current detection algorithms based on the mechanism of the human visual system ignore the continuous direction information and are easily disturbed by highlight noise and object edges. In this paper, a multi-scale strengthened directional difference (MSDD) algorithm is proposed. It is mainly divided into two parts: local directional intensity measure (LDIM) and local directional fluctuation measure (LDFM). In LDIM, an improved window is used to suppress most edge clutter, highlights, and holes and enhance true targets. In LDFM, the characteristics of the target area, the background area, and the connection between the target and the background are considered, which further highlights the true target signal and suppresses the corner clutter. Then, the MSDD saliency map is obtained by fusing the LDIM map and the LDFM map. Finally, an adaptive threshold segmentation method is employed to capture true targets. The experiments show that the proposed method achieves better detection performance in complex backgrounds than several classical and widely used methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial destabilization induced by pathogen infection has severely affected plant quality and output, such as Anoectochilus roxburghii, an economically important herb. Soft rot is the main disease that occurs during A. roxburghii culturing. However, the key members of pathogens and their interplay with non‐detrimental microorganisms in diseased plants remain largely unsolved. Here, by utilizing a molecular ecological network approach, the interactions within bacterial communities in endophytic compartments and the surrounding soils during soft rot infection were investigated. Significant differences in bacterial diversity and community composition between healthy and diseased plants were observed, indicating that the endophytic communities were strongly influenced by pathogen invasion. Endophytic stem communities of the diseased plants were primarily derived from roots and the root endophytes were largely derived from rhizosphere soils, which depicts a possible pathogen migration image from soils to roots and finally the stems. Furthermore, interactions among microbial members indicated that pathogen invasion might be aided by positively correlated native microbial members, such as Enterobacter and Microbacterium, who may assist in colonization and multiplication through a mutualistic relationship in roots during the pathogen infection process. Our findings will help open new avenues for developing more accurate strategies for biological control of A. roxburghii bacterial soft rot disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Significance: Cancer immunotherapy has yielded striking antitumor effects in many cancers, yet the proportion of benefited patients is still limited. As key mediators of tumor suppression, CD8+ T cells are crucial for cancer immunotherapy. It has been widely appreciated that the modulation of CD8+ T cell immunity could be an effective way to further improve the therapeutic benefit of immunotherapy. Recent Advances: Emerging evidence has underlined a close link between metabolism and immune functions, providing a metabolism-immune axis that is increasingly investigated for understanding CD8+ T cell regulation. On the other hand, growing findings have reported that tumors adopt multiple approaches to induce metabolic reprogramming of CD8+ T cells, leading to compromised immunotherapy. Critical Issues: CD8+ T cell metabolism in the tumor microenvironment (TME) is often adapted to diminish antitumor immune responses and thereby evade from immune surveillance. A better understanding of metabolic regulation of CD8+ T cells in the TME is believed to hold promise for opening a new therapeutic window to further improve the benefit of immunotherapy. We herein review the mechanistic understanding of how CD8+ T cell metabolism is reprogrammed in the TME, mainly focusing on the impact of nutrient availability and bioactive molecules secreted by surrounding cells. Future Directions: Future research should pay attention to tumor heterogeneity in the metabolic microenvironment and associated immune responses. It is also important to include the trending opinion of "precision medicine" in cancer immunotherapies to tailor metabolic interventions for individual patients in combination with immunotherapy treatments. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 37, 1234–1253. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genes associated with specific neurocognitive phenotypes in Williams–Beuren syndrome are still controversially discussed. This study identified nine patients with atypical deletions out of 111 patients with Williams–Beuren syndrome; these deletions included seven smaller deletions and two larger deletions. One patient had normal neurodevelopment with a deletion of genes on the distal side of the Williams–Beuren syndrome chromosomal region, including GTF2I and GTF2IRD1. However, another patient retained these genes but showed neurodevelopmental abnormalities. By comparing the genotypes and phenotypes of patients with typical and atypical deletions and previous reports in the literature, we hypothesize that the BAZ1B, FZD9, and STX1A genes may play an important role in the neurodevelopment of patients with WBS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Accurate prediction of the expression of programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) before immunotherapy is crucial. This study was performed to construct and validate a contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT)–based radiomics signature to predict the expression of PD-L1 in HNSCC. Methods: In total, 157 patients with confirmed HNSCC who underwent CECT scans and immunohistochemical examination of tumor PD-L1 expression were enrolled in this study. The patients were divided into a training set (n = 104; 62 PD-L1–positive and 42 PD-L1–negative) and an external validation set (n = 53; 34 PD-L1–positive and 19 PD-L1–negative). A radiomics signature was constructed from radiomics features extracted from the CECT images, and a radiomics score was calculated. Performance of the radiomics signature was assessed using receiver operating characteristics analysis. Results: Nine features were finally selected to construct the radiomics signature. The performance of the radiomics signature to distinguish between a PD-L1–positive and PD-L1–negative status in both the training and validation sets was good, with an area under the receiver operating characteristics curve of 0.852 and 0.802 for the training and validation sets, respectively. Conclusions: A CECT–based radiomics signature was constructed to predict the expression of PD-L1 in HNSCC. This model showed favorable predictive efficacy and might be useful for identifying patients with HNSCC who can benefit from anti-PD-L1 immunotherapy. Key Points: • Accurate prediction of the expression of PD-L1 in HNSCC before immunotherapy is crucial. • A CECT–based radiomics signature showed favorable predictive efficacy in estimation of the PD-L1 expression status in patients with HNSCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A series of chalcone skeleton were synthesized with high yield up to 97%. • The molecules were based on AIE + ESIPT stagey. • The compound could be used as "On-Off" probe for basic system. • The compound showed excellent selectivity and sensitivity for pH. • The compound exhibited low biotoxicity and stability in cell. A series of "turn off" pH fluorescence probes with chalcone skeleton for basic system have been developed. The molecules emitted bright yellow fluorescence under acidic condition, resulting AIE coupled ESIPT characteristic and ICT process. What's more, the compounds exhibited excellent sensitivity and selectivity for detecting pH as a facile "On-Off" fluorescence probe, and the fluorescence of them were quenched with the ESIPT process interrupted under alkaline condition. Theoretical calculation for the related compounds also performed to verify the electron effect on photophysical properties and confirm the rational speculation on the mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shaft-driven Roll-to-Roll (R2R) printing systems have advantages in keeping the printing rolls synchronously rotating, thereby reducing the register errors of R2R printing systems. However, tension oscillations and propagation are still inevitable due to other factors such as disturbances, which lead to the fluctuation of register errors. In this paper, a new mechanical model is established for the shaft-driven R2R systems. Then, a model-based precise control (MBPC) method is proposed, in which an implicit coupling algorithm is designed for the cooperate actions of the dancer rolls to rapidly suppress the tension oscillations and propagation. The stability of the proposed control system is proved via Lyapunov analysis. Moreover, the effectiveness of the proposed modeling and control method is verified via an industrial example. The results indicate that the proposed model can accurately characterize the dynamics of the R2R systems, and the MBPC can effectively eliminate the register errors caused by the tension oscillations and propagation, through the implicit coupling algorithm. Additionally, the results also demonstrate that the MBPC can increase the register precision of package manufacturing R2R systems into ± 40 micrometers, which is superior to the existing control method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A culture-free, enzyme-free, secondary antibody-free, and ultra-sensitive biosensor was established for Salmonella detection. • The Fenton reaction of Ni-TCPP(Fe2+) significantly improved the SNR of the biosensor (SNR›20). • The ConA not only improves the stability but also enhances sensitivity of the biosensor. • The strategy was successfully applied for the detection of Salmonella from human urine. To fulfill the stringent demands of clinical Salmonella detection, this study employed the benefits of Ni-TCPP(Fe2+) and ConA to establish a novel approach that is culture-free, enzyme-free, secondary antibody-free, and ultra-sensitive. Our investigations revealed two key mechanisms that significantly bolster the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and enhance detection stability: firstly, the Fenton reaction and the mimic enzyme catalysis of Ni-TCPP(Fe2+) improved the sensitivity of the biosensor; secondly, the substitution of the secondary antibody with ConA led to increased binding of Ni-TCPP(Fe2+) due to the abundance of ConA receptors on the bacterial surface. With proper assembly, the developed biosensor exhibited high sensitivity in the range of 101–107 CFU/mL, along with a detection limit as low as 4 CFU/mL, and achieved rapid detection within a mere 2 h. Moreover, this biosensor has proven its efficacy in detecting Salmonella in clinical biological samples. Its advantages of being culture-free, secondary antibody-free, and ultra-sensitive establish a solid research foundation for the expedited detection of Salmonella in clinical settings and point-of-care testing (POCT). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In mechanical shaft driven roll-to-roll (R2R) printing systems, tension propagation caused by the regulation of dancer rolls increase the control difficulty of the whole system. In this paper, a cooperative compensate control (CoComC) method is proposed for the R2R printing systems to attenuate tension fluctuation and reduce the register errors. Specifically, a mechanical model is established to quantify the relationship among the web tension, linear velocity of dancer roll and register error. Based on the model, a well-tuned feedback control law is designed for each dancer roll, and a cooperative matrix is proposed to coordinate the feedback control to attenuate the tension fluctuation and reduce the register error in the corresponding printing unit. Further, the stability and convergence condition of the proposed control system are provided and proved via Lyapunov stability theory. The effectiveness of the proposed control method is demonstrated by experiments. Comparisons of the existing control method are carried out to show the superior performance of CoComC, i.e., higher register accuracy, superior fluctuation attenuation performance and less waste of printing material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The physicochemical properties of dietary fiber in the gastrointestinal tract, such as hydration properties, adsorption properties, rheological properties, have an important influence on the physiological process of host digestion and absorption, leading to the differences in satiety and glucose and lipid metabolisms. Based on the diversified physicochemical properties of konjac glucomannan (KGM), it is meaningful to review the relationship of structural characteristics, physicochemical properties and glycose and lipid metabolism. Firstly, this paper bypassed the category of intestinal microbes, and explained the potential of dietary fiber in regulating glucose and lipid metabolism during nutrient digestion and absorption from the perspective of colloidal nutrition. Secondly, the modification methods of KGM to regulate its physicochemical properties were discussed and the relationship between KGM's molecular structure types and glycose and lipid metabolism were summarized. Finally, based on the characteristics of KGM, the application of KGM in the main material and ingredients of fat reduction food was reviewed. We hope this work could provide theoretical basis for the study of dietary fiber colloid nutrition science. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most studies on patent renewal propose that abandonment indicates low quality and weakens firm performance. However, in practice, firms sometimes abandon patents as a rational strategy for pruning their patent portfolios. The discordance between literature and practice manifest a research gap. Studies of patent quality view usually focus on individual patents but overlook firms' strategic blueprints. This study aims to reconcile this discordance through real option perspective, by elaborating on how patent abandonment affects performance persistence. The empirical analysis uses panel data of 1920 listed firms in mainland China. The results show that patent abandonment is negatively but not significantly associated with performance persistence, indicating the limited explanatory power of the patent quality view. Furthermore, this study finds that uncertainty strengthens the relationship between the two variables, especially in the presence of a diverse patent portfolio. These findings are consistent with the arguments of real option theory and confirm the option value of abandoned patents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genes associated with specific neurocognitive phenotypes in Williams–Beuren syndrome are still controversially discussed. This study identified nine patients with atypical deletions out of 111 patients with Williams–Beuren syndrome; these deletions included seven smaller deletions and two larger deletions. One patient had normal neurodevelopment with a deletion of genes on the distal side of the Williams–Beuren syndrome chromosomal region, including GTF2I and GTF2IRD1. However, another patient retained these genes but showed neurodevelopmental abnormalities. By comparing the genotypes and phenotypes of patients with typical and atypical deletions and previous reports in the literature, we hypothesize that the BAZ1B, FZD9, and STX1A genes may play an important role in the neurodevelopment of patients with WBS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current work, a core-shell type exchange coupled composite structure was constructed by micromagnetic simulation with a phase FePt core and an iron shell. Four types of switching loops with magnetic domain structure evolution were demonstrated. Based on the simulation results, a switching type diagram was constructed, which displays various hysteresis loops as a function of core radius and shell thickness. Furthermore, the effects of switching type and composite structure on the coercivity and remanent magnetization were predicted and discussed. This finding indicates that core-shell type FePt/Fe composite structure film has a large advantage in designing exchange-coupled bit patterned media to realize high-density storage devices at the nanoscale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this systematic review is to synthesize lung cancer associated health disparities across the cancer continuum among Asian Americans. A systematic review design with the narrative method was used for conducting this study. Electronic literature databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, and CINAHL, were searched. After applying filter information, inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 20 articles were included in the review. Findings related to lung cancer prevention, screening, incidence rates, diagnosis, treatment, survival rates, and mortality rates among Asian Americans were synthesized. Results showed the prevalence of smoking quit attempts in the past year was high among Asian Americans, although the prevalence of receiving advice to quit and using counseling and/or medication services was low among this population. Also, the smoking cessation rate among Asian Americans was the second lowest among all racial groups, although the abstinence rate was highest among this population. Compared with other races, Asian Americans are more likely to be diagnosed with lung cancer at a distant stage of disease, and they tend to be less likely to undergo surgery than other races in the United States. The incidence and mortality rates of lung cancer were low among Asian Americans compared with other races in the United States, while the survival rate of lung cancer was high among this population. Further research focusing on lung cancer associated health disparities in specific Asian American ethnic groups should be conducted. Culturally relevant programs that tackle cultural and genetic factors related to lung cancer risk as well as early screening, diagnosis and treatment in this vulnerable population are also necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cancer is the leading cause of death among Chinese Americans (CAs). Although death rates of cancers can be significantly reduced by screening cancers at an early stage, cancer screening (CS) rates are low among CAs. Interventions on CS may increase the uptake rates of CS and help to decrease the death rates of cancers in CAs. Objectives: This study aims to summarize the intervention methods on CS among CAs and compare effects of various intervention methods on the outcomes of CS, including knowledge levels of CS, intentions to complete CS, and actual completions of CS. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis design was used. Keyword searching was conducted on PubMed, Google Scholar, PsycINFO, and CINAHL. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied. The PEDro scale was used to evaluate the quality of the studies. Data was analyzed using Review Manager Version 5.4 software. Random effect model and subgroup analyses were conducted. Results: The search yielded 13 eligible studies. All of the reviewed interventions were culturally tailored. Systematic review results were categorized by intervention delivery objects, intervention led, intervention contact, intervention types, and intervention focus according to group consensus. Meta-analysis results showed that the interventions on CS had a positive effect on all outcomes, including a 1.58 (95% CI, 1.17–2.14; P = 0.003), 1.78 (95% CI, 1.27–2.48; P = 0.0007), and 1.72 (95% CI, 1.22–2.42; P = 0.002) effect on knowledge of CS, intentions to complete CS, and completions of CS, respectively, compared to the control group. The subgroup analysis suggested that physician-led, individual-based, face-to-face client-focused interventions with multiple components increased CS among CAs, with the OR ranging from 1.60 (95% CI, 1.08–2.39; P = 0.02) to 3.11 (95%CI, 1.02–9.49; P = 0.05). Discussion: Interventions on CS significantly increased CAs' knowledge of CS, intentions to complete CS, and completions of CS. Physician-led, individual-based, face-to-face client-focused interventions with multiple components should be utilized for CAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we explore the possibility that a hexagonal ring structure can be used as a solar absorber and a thermal emitter for multiple applications. By using FDTD (finite-difference time-domain) Solutions for numerical simulation, the light source is set to 280 nm–2500 nm, and the following properties of the structure are studied. Firstly, the structure achieves an average absorption efficiency of 92.57 % and 97.88 % at AM (Air Mass) 1.5, and the bandwidth is 283 nm–2006 nm (absorption efficiency greater than 90 %), which achieves ultra-broadband perfect absorption. Secondly, the structure can theoretically work at 1500 K, at which the thermal radiation efficiency is 89.13 %. When considering the oxidation and decomposition of materials in practical applications, the structure can work up to 700 K, and the thermal radiation efficiency decreases to 77.07 %. Therefore, the structure has excellent absorption and radiation performance, and has a wide range of applications as a solar absorber or thermal emitter. We studied the absorption and thermal radiation properties of a structure using refractory metals and TMDCs. The average absorption efficiency of the structure in 280–2500 nm reaches 93.19 %, and the bandwidth of A>90 % reaches 1747 nm. In addition, the average absorption efficiency under AM 1.5 is 98.64 %. We also studied the thermal radiation properties of the structure. Theoretically, the structure can work stably at a high temperature of 1500 K; in practical applications, it can also withstand a high temperature of 700 K, and the thermal radiation efficiency reaches 90.59 % and 79.98 %, respectively. In summary, the structure achieves ultra-broadband perfect absorption, can work at high temperatures theoretically and practically, and has high thermal radiation efficiency. Therefore, it has a very wide range of applications, such as thermal management, energy utilization, thermal and optical applications. [Display omitted] • A hexagonal ring structure obtains an average absorption efficiency of 93.19 % in 280–2500 nm. • The structure obtains an average absorption efficiency of 98.64 % at AM1.5. • The structure has an ultra-high thermal emission efficiency of 90.59 % at 1500 K and 79.98 % at 700 K. • The multilayer structure can be used as a solar absorber and a thermal emitter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydroformylation reactions promoted by Rh single-atom catalysts typically exhibit a negative reaction order for CO and a positive reaction order for H 2 and alkenes. To enhance the catalytic activity, efforts have been concentrated on reducing the CO adsorption strength and/or enhancing the hydrogenation capacity at Rh sites. This report introduces an optimized Rh single-atom catalyst, utilizing positively charged Mn species to weaken the CO adsorption strength. Our strategy involves placing MnOx clusters in the proximity to the Rh single atom. This arrangement allows the reduction of Rh3+ to produce electronically deficient Rhδ+ species (1 < δ < 2), rather than the usual formation of the lower valence state Rh+ species. The weakened CO adsorption strength on the more positively charged Rhδ+ results in reduced CO coverage on the Rh active site, and enhanced adsorption of propylene. Our mechanistic study reveals that H 2 and CO adsorption on Rh catalyzes the reduction of adjacent Mn(IV) species, inducing the formation of a Rh-MnOx paired active site. The neighboring MnOx clusters hinder the extensive reduction of Rh3+ to Rh+. This study presents MnOx as an inorganic ligand in Rh-MnOx pair site modifies the electronic properties of Rh sites to modulate the hydroformylation activity of Rh single-atom catalysts. [Display omitted] • H 2 and CO on Rh catalyzes the reduction of adjacent Mn(IV) to form Rh-MnOx pair site. • The neighboring MnOx hinder the reduction of Rh3+ to Rh+, forming Rhδ+ (1 < δ < 2). • Rhδ+ shows weakened CO adsorption strength than Rh+ species • Weakened CO adsorption strength on Rhδ+ benefits high hydroformylation activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• In this paper, we found that senescent mice develop pathologies such as obesity lipid metabolism disorders. • The expression of miR-743b-3p was elevated in senescent mice, which inhibited the expression of PPM1K. • MiR-743b-3p regulates BCAA levels in senescent hepatocytes by targeting PPM1K causing abnormal lipid deposition. Lipid metabolism disorders appear to play an important role in the ageing process, thus understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the association of ageing with elevated vulnerability to lipid metabolism related diseases is crucial towards promoting quality of life in old age. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as crucial regulators of lipid metabolism, and some miRNAs have key roles in ageing. In this study, we investigated changes in liver lipid metabolism of ageing mice and the mechanisms of the altered expression of miRNAs in the ageing liver which contributes to the age-dependent increase in lipid synthesis. Here we found that miR-743b-3p was higher expressed in the liver tissues of ageing mice through the small RNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis, and its target PPM1K was predicted and confirmed the target relationship of miR-743b-3p with PPM1K in the aged mouse liver tissues and the cultured senescent hepatocytes in vitro. Moreover, using the transfected miR-743b-3p mimics/inhibitors into the senescent hepatocyte AML12. We found that miR-743b-3p inhibition reversed the hepatocyte senescence, and finally decreased the expression of genes involved in lipid synthesis(Chrebp, Fabp4, Acly and Pparγ) through increasing the target gene expression of PPM1K which regulated the expression of branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) metabolism-related genes (Bckdhα, Bckdk, Bcat2, Dbt). These results identify that age-induced expression of miR-743b-3p inhibits its target PPM1K which induces BCAA metabolic disorder and regulates hepatocyte lipid accumulation during ageing. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The condition of COVID-19-related myocarditis has emerged as a prominent contributor to COVID-19 mortality. As the epidemic persists, its incidence continues to rise. Despite ongoing efforts, the elucidation of COVID-19-related myocarditis underlying molecular mechanisms still requires further investigation. Hub genes for COVID-19-related myocarditis were screened by integrating gene expression profile analysis via differential expression in COVID-19 (GSE196822) and myocarditis (GSE148153 and GSE147517). After verification with independent datasets (GSE211979, GSE167028, GSE178491 and GSE215865), the hub genes were studied using a range of systems-biology approaches, such as ceRNA, TF-mRNA networks and PPI networks, as well as gene ontology, pathway enrichment, immune infiltration analysis and drug target identification. TBKBP1 and ERGIC1 were identified as COVID-19-related myocarditis hub genes via integrated bioinformatics analysis. In addition, receiver operating characteristic curves constructed based on the expression levels of TBKBP1 and ERGIC1 could effectively distinguish healthy control individuals from patients with COVID-19. Functional enrichment analysis suggested several enriched biological pathways related to inflammation and immune response. Immune cell changes correlated with TBKBP1 and ERGIC1 levels in patients with COVID-19 or patients with COVID-19 and myocarditis. Tamibarotene, methotrexate and theophylline were identified as a potential drug targeting TBKBP1 and ERGIC1. TBKBP1 and ERGIC1 were identified as crucial genes in the development of COVID-19-related myocarditis and have demonstrated a strong association with innate antiviral immunity. The present work may be helpful for further investigation of the molecular mechanisms and new therapeutic drug targets correlated with myocarditis in COVID-19. • Potential drugs targeting the central genes of novel coronavirus-associated myocarditis were predicted. This study will provide new molecular mechanisms and targets for novel coronavirus pneumonia-associated myocarditis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]