Chiral kagome superconductivity modulations with residual Fermi arcs.

Superconductivity involving finite-momentum pairing1 can lead to spatial-gap and pair-density modulations, as well as Bogoliubov Fermi states within the superconducting gap. However, the experimental realization of their intertwined relations has been challenging. Here we detect chiral kagome superconductivity modulations with residual Fermi arcs in KV3Sb5 and CsV3Sb5 using normal and Josephson scanning tunnelling microscopy down to 30 millikelvin with a resolved electronic energy difference at the microelectronvolt level. We observe a U-shaped superconducting gap with flat residual in-gap states. This gap shows chiral 2a × 2a spatial modulations with magnetic-field-tunable chirality, which align with the chiral 2a × 2a pair-density modulations observed through Josephson tunnelling. These findings demonstrate a chiral pair density wave (PDW) that breaks time-reversal symmetry. Quasiparticle interference imaging of the in-gap zero-energy states reveals segmented arcs, with high-temperature data linking them to parts of the reconstructed vanadium d-orbital states within the charge order. The detected residual Fermi arcs can be explained by the partial suppression of these d-orbital states through an interorbital 2a × 2a PDW and thus serve as candidate Bogoliubov Fermi states. In addition, we differentiate the observed PDW order from impurity-induced gap modulations. Our observations not only uncover a chiral PDW order with orbital selectivity but also show the fundamental space-momentum correspondence inherent in finite-momentum-paired superconductivity.

Local Excitation of Kagome Spin Ice Magnetism Seen by Scanning Tunneling Microscopy.

The kagome spin ice can host frustrated magnetic excitations by flipping its local spin. Under an inelastic tunneling condition, the tip in a scanning tunneling microscope can flip the local spin, and we apply this technique to kagome metal HoAgGe with a long-range ordered spin ice ground state. Away from defects, we discover a pair of pronounced dips in the local tunneling spectrum at symmetrical bias voltages with negative intensity values, serving as a striking inelastic tunneling signal. This signal disappears above the spin ice formation temperature and has a dependence on the magnetic fields, demonstrating its intimate relation with the spin ice magnetism. We provide a two-level spin-flip model to explain the tunneling dips considering the spin ice magnetism under spin-orbit coupling. Our results uncover a local emergent excitation of spin ice magnetism in a kagome metal, suggesting that local electrical field induced spin flip climbs over a barrier caused by spin-orbital locking.

Skin-interfaced microfluidic biosensors for colorimetric measurements of the concentrations of ketones in sweat.

Ketones, such as beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), are important metabolites that can be used to monitor for conditions such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and ketosis. Compared to conventional approaches that rely on samples of urine or blood evaluated using laboratory techniques, processes for monitoring of ketones in sweat using on-body sensors offer significant advantages. Here, we report a class of soft, skin-interfaced microfluidic devices that can quantify the concentrations of BHB in sweat based on simple and low-cost colorimetric schemes. These devices combine microfluidic structures and enzymatic colorimetric BHB assays for selective and accurate analysis. Human trials demonstrate the broad applicability of this technology in practical scenarios, and they also establish quantitative correlations between the concentration of BHB in sweat and in blood. The results represent a convenient means for managing DKA and aspects of personal nutrition/wellness.

Amugulang virus, a novel hantavirus harboured by small rodents in Hulunbuir, China.

The Hulunbuir region, known for its diverse terrain and rich wildlife, is a hotspot for various natural epidemic diseases. Between 2021 and 2023, we collected 885 wild rodent samples from this area, representing three families, seven genera, and eleven species. Metagenomic analysis identified three complete nucleic acid sequences from the S, M, and L segments of the Hantaviridae family, which were closely related to the Khabarovsk virus. The nucleotide coding sequences for S, M, and L (1392 nt, 3465 nt, and 6491 nt, respectively) exhibited similarities of 82.34%, 81.68%, and 81.94% to known sequences, respectively, while protein-level analysis indicated higher similarities of 94.92%, 94.41%, and 95.87%, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis placed these sequences within the same clade as the Khabarovsk, Puumala, Muju, Hokkaido, Topografov, and Tatenalense viruses, all of which are known to cause febrile diseases in humans. Immunofluorescence detection of nucleic acid-positive rodent kidney samples using sera from patients with hemorrhagic fever and renal syndrome confirmed the presence of viral particles. Based on these findings, we propose that this virus represents a new member of the Hantaviridae family, tentatively named the Amugulang virus, after its primary distribution area.

The chromosome-level genome assembly of Cananga odorata provides insights into its evolution and terpenoid biosynthesis.

Cananga odorata is known as a natural perfume tree of the Annonaceae family in Magnoliales. However, its phylogenetic position and the molecular mechanisms involved in the biosynthesis of the floral volatile organic compounds (VOCs) remain unclear. Here, by combining a variety of sequencing platforms, we present a telomere-to-telomere (T2T) genome of C. odorata with 735.83 Mb, which represents the highest integrity and assembly quality of genome in magnoliid plants reported to date. Phylogenetic analysis based on multiple datasets and approaches showed that C. odorata, as a member of magnoliids, is sister to eudicots, after their divergence from monocots. Metabolomic of VOCs in the essential oil and flowers scent showed that sesquiterpenes, especially ß-caryophyllene, were the major compounds. Two CoTPS21 homologues derived from tandem duplication events were highly expressed during flower development and were identified as the key sesquiterpene synthases for the production of ß-caryophyllene. In addition, CoSPL3 and CoSPL9 were considered as potential transcription factors for activating the expression of CoTPS21 homologues. Our results shed light on the molecular mechanisms underlying the biosynthesis of the unique floral fragrance in C. odorata and provide new insights into the phylogenetic position of magnoliids.

Unveiling Gating Behavior in Piezoionic Effect: toward Neuromimetic Tactile Sensing.

The human perception system's information processing is intricately linked to the nonlinear response and gating effect of neurons. While piezoionics holds potential in emulating the pressure sensing capability of biological skin, the incorporation of information processing functions seems neglected. Here, ionic gating behavior in piezoionic hydrogels is uncovered as a notable extension beyond the previously observed linear responses. The hydrogel can generate remarkably high voltages (700 mV) and currents (7 mA) when indentation forces surpass the threshold. Through a comprehensive analysis involving simulations and experimental investigations, it is proposed that the gating behavior emerges due to significant diffusion differences between cations and anions. To showcase the practical implications of this breakthrough, the piezoionic hydrogels are successfully integrated with prostheses and robot hands, demonstrating that the gating effect enables accurate discrimination between gentle and harsh touch. The advancement in neuromimetic tactile sensing has significant potential for emerging applications such as humanoid robotics and biomedical engineering, offering valuable opportunities for further development of embodied neuromorphic intelligence.

A telomere-to-telomere gap-free reference genome assembly of avocado provides useful resources for identifying genes related to fatty acid biosynthesis and disease resistance.

Avocado (Persea americana Mill.) is an economically valuable plant because of the high fatty acid content and unique flavor of its fruits. Its fatty acid content, especially the relatively high unsaturated fatty acid content, provides significant health benefits. We herein present a telomere-to-telomere gapless genome assembly (841.6 Mb) of West Indian avocado. The genome contains 40 629 predicted protein-coding genes. Repeat sequences account for 57.9% of the genome. Notably, all telomeres, centromeres, and a nucleolar organizing region are included in this genome. Fragments from these three regions were observed via fluorescence in situ hybridization. We identified 376 potential disease resistance-related nucleotide-binding leucine-rich repeat genes. These genes, which are typically clustered on chromosomes, may be derived from gene duplication events. Five NLR genes (Pa11g0262, Pa02g4855, Pa07g3139, Pa07g0383, and Pa02g3196) were highly expressed in leaves, stems, and fruits, indicating they may be involved in avocado disease responses in multiple tissues. We also identified 128 genes associated with fatty acid biosynthesis and analyzed their expression patterns in leaves, stems, and fruits. Pa02g0113, which encodes one of 11 stearoyl-acyl carrier protein desaturases mediating C18 unsaturated fatty acid synthesis, was more highly expressed in the leaves than in the stems and fruits. These findings provide valuable insights that enhance our understanding of fatty acid biosynthesis in avocado.

Chromosome-level genome assembly of Hippophae rhamnoides variety.

Fructus hippophae (Hippophae rhamnoides spp. mongolica×Hippophae rhamnoides sinensis), a hybrid variety of sea buckthorn that Hippophae rhamnoides spp. mongolica serves as the female parent and Hippophae rhamnoides sinensis serves as the male parent, is a traditional plant with great potentials of economic and medical values. Herein, we gained a chromosome-level genome of Fructus hippophae about 918.59 Mb, with the scaffolds N50 reaching 83.65 Mb. Then, we anchored 440 contigs with 97.17% of the total genome sequences onto 12 pseudochromosomes. Next, de-novo, homology and transcriptome assembly strategies were adopted for gene structure prediction. This predicted 36475 protein-coding genes, of which 36226 genes could be functionally annotated. Simultaneously, various strategies were used for quality assessment, both the complete BUSCO value (98.80%) and the mapping rate indicated the high assembly quality. Repetitive elements, which occupied 63.68% of the genome, and 1483600 bp of non-coding RNA were annotated. Here, we provide genomic information on female plants of a popular variety, which can provide data for pan-genomic construction of sea buckthorn and for the resolution of the mechanism of sex differentiation.

The safety and efficacy of volumetric modulated Arc therapy combined with computer tomography-guided adaptive brachytherapy for locally advanced cervical cancer: a single institution experience.

BACKGROUND: Volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) is a novel form of IMRT, which can deliver more accurate dose distribution and shorten treatment time. Compared to MRI-guided adaptive brachytherapy, which is recommended as gold standard imaging for cervical cancer contours, CT-guided adaptive brachytherapy (CTGAB) is more available, more widespread, and more affordable in many centers. This study aims to retrospectively analyze the efficacy and the safety of VMAT combined with CTGAB for patients with locally advanced cervical cancer. METHODS AND MATERIALS: This study retrospectively analyzed 102 patients with locally advanced cervical cancer who underwent VMAT and CTGAB. Clinical outcomes including local control (LC), overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS), tumor response to treatment evaluated by the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) (version 1.1), and toxicities including gastrointestinal toxicity, urinary toxicity and hematologic toxicity evaluated by the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) (version 5.0) were analyzed. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to calculate LC, OS, and PFS. RESULTS: Median follow-up time was 19 months. Complete response (CR), partial response (PR), stable disease (SD), and progressive disease (PD) occurred in 68 (66.7%), 24 (23.5%), 4 (3.92%), and 6 (5.88%), respectively. The 2-year and 3-year OS were 89.6% and 83%, respectively. The 2-year and 3-year PFS were 84.2% and 74.3%, respectively. The 2-year and 3-year LC were 90.1% and 79.3%, respectively. The average cumulative D2cm3 in the rectum, the bladder, the colon, and the small intestine were 78.07 (SD: 0.46) Gy, 93.20 (SD: 0.63) Gy, 63.55 (SD: 1.03) Gy and 61.07 (SD: 0.75) Gy, respectively. The average cumulative D90% of the high-risk clinical target volume (HR-CTV) was 92.26 (SD: 0.35) Gy. Grade ≥ 3 gastrointestinal and urinary toxicities occurred in 4.9% and 0.98%, respectively. 1.96% of patients were observed grade ≥ 4 gastrointestinal toxicities and none of the patients observed grade ≥ 4 urinary toxicities. CONCLUSION: VMAT combined with CTGAB for locally advanced cervical cancer was an effective and safe treatment method, which showed satisfactory LC, OS, PFS, and acceptable toxicities.

Teaching an Old Drug a New Trick: Targeting Treatment Resistance in Genitourinary Cancers.

In the quest for improving the clinical outcome of patients with metastatic genitourinary cancers, including metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC), the emphasis often is on finding new targeted therapies. However, two studies by Jordan et al. (Oncogenesis 2020) and Wang et al. (Cancer Cell Int 2022) demonstrate the feasibility of improving the efficacy of a modestly effective drug Sorafenib against mRCC by attacking a mechanism hijacked by RCC cells for inactivating Sorafenib. The studies also identified hyaluronic acid synthase -3 (HAS3) as a bonafide target of Sorafenib in RCC cells. The studies demonstrate that an over-the-counter drug Hymecromone (4-methylumbelliferone) blocks inactivation of Sorafenib in RCC cells and improves its efficacy against mRCC through the inhibition of HAS3 expression and HA signaling. In the broader context, improving the efficacy of "old and failed drugs" that have favorable safety profiles should increase the availability of effective treatments for patients with advanced cancers.

Biomass hydrothermal carbonization solution-assisted synthesis of intercalation-expanded core-shell structured molybdenum disulfide for efficient adsorption of Cr (VI) in electroplating wastewater treatment.

Cr (VI) is a common heavy metal pollutant in electroplating wastewater. This study introduces the liquid-phase product from the hydrothermal reaction of coffee grounds (CGHCL) into the synthesis process of molybdenum disulfide, assisting in the fabrication of an intercalated, expanded core-shell structured molybdenum disulfide adsorbent (C-MoS2), designed for the adsorption and reduction of Cr (VI) from electroplating wastewater. The addition of CGHCL significantly enhances the adsorption performance of MoS2. Furthermore, C-MoS2 exhibits exceedingly high removal efficiency and excellent regenerative capability for Cr (VI)-containing electroplating wastewater. The core-shell structure effectively minimizes molybdenum leaching to the greatest extent, while the oleophobic interface is unaffected by oily substances in water, and the expanded interlayer structure ensures the long-term stability of C-MoS2 in air (90 days). This study provides a viable pathway for the resource utilization of biomass and the application of molybdenum disulfide-based materials in wastewater treatment.

Speeding up the classical simulation of Gaussian boson sampling with limited connectivity.

Gaussian boson sampling (GBS) plays a crucially important role in demonstrating quantum advantage. As a major imperfection, the limited connectivity of the linear optical network weakens the quantum advantage result in recent experiments. In this work, we introduce an enhanced classical algorithm for simulating GBS processes with limited connectivity. It computes the loop Hafnian of an n × n symmetric matrix with bandwidth w in O ( n w 2 w ) time. It is better than the previous fastest algorithm which runs in O ( n w 2 2 w ) time. This classical algorithm is helpful on clarifying how limited connectivity affects the computational complexity of GBS and tightening the boundary for achieving quantum advantage in the GBS problem.

Genome-wide identification of GRF transcription factors and their expression profile in stem meristem of broomcorn millet (Panicum miliaceum L.).

To understand the genome-wide information of the GRF family genes in broomcorn millet and their expression profile in the vegetative meristems, bioinformatic methods and transcriptome sequencing were used to analyze the characteristics, physical and chemical properties, phylogenetic relationship, chromosome distribution, gene structure, cis-acting elements and expression profile in stem meristem for the GRF family members. The results showed that the GRF gene family of millet contains 21 members, and the PmGRF gene is unevenly distributed on 12 chromosomes. The lengths of PmGRF proteins vary from 224 to 618 amino acids, and the isoelectric points are between 4.93-9.69. Each member of the family has 1-4 introns and 2-5 exons. The protein PmGRF13 is localized in both the nucleus and chloroplast, and the rest PmGRF proteins are located in the nucleus. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the 21 GRF genes were divided into 4 subfamilies (A,B,C and D) in broomcorn millet. The analysis of cis-acting elements showed that there were many cis-acting elements involved in light response, hormone response, drought induction, low temperature response and other environmental stress responses in the 2000 bp sequence upstream of the GRF genes. Transcriptome sequencing and qRT-PCR analyses showed that the expression levels of PmGRF3 and PmGRF12 in the dwarf variety Zhang778 were significantly higher than those of the tall variety Longmi12 in the internode and node meristems at the jointing stage, while the expression patterns of PmGRF4, PmGRF16 and PmGRF21 were reverse. In addition, the expression levels of PmGRF2 and PmGRF5 in the internode of Zhang778 were significantly higher than Longmi12. The other GRF genes were not or insignificantly expressed. These results indicated that seven genes, PmGRF2, PmGRF3, PmGRF4, PmGRF5, PmGRF12, PmGRF16 and PmGRF21, were related to the formation of plant height in broomcorn millet.

Association of short-chain fatty acids and the gut microbiome with type 2 diabetes: Evidence from the Henan Rural Cohort.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Human studies about short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), the gut microbiome, and Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) are limited. Here we explored the association between SCFAs and T2DM and the effects of gut microbial diversity on glucose status in rural populations. METHODS AND RESULTS: We performed a cross-sectional study from the Henan Rural Cohort and collected stool samples. Gut microbiota composition and faecal SCFA concentrations were measured by 16S rRNA and GC-MS. The population was divided based on the tertiles of SCFAs, and logistic regression models assessed the relationship between SCFAs and T2DM. Generalized linear models tested the interactions between SCFAs and gut microbial diversity on glucose indicators (glucose, HbAlc and insulin). Compared to the lowest tertile of total SCFA, acetate and butyrate, the highest tertile exhibited lower T2DM prevalence, with ORs and 95% CIs of 0.291 (0.085-0.991), 0.160 (0.044-0.574) and 0.171 (0.047-0.620), respectively. Restricted cubic spline demonstrated an approximately inverse S-shaped association. We also noted interactions of the ACE index with the highest tertile of valerate on glucose levels (P-interaction = 0.022) and the Shannon index with the middle tertile of butyrate on insulin levels (P-interaction = 0.034). Genus Prevotella_9 and Odoribacter were inversely correlated with T2DM, and the genus Blautia was positively associated with T2DM. These bacteria are common SCFA-producing members. CONCLUSIONS: Inverse S-shaped associations between SCFAs (total SCFA, acetate, and butyrate) and T2DM were observed. Valerate and butyrate modify glucose status with increasing gut microbial diversity.

The Lactobacillus plantarum P-8 Probiotic Microcapsule Prevents DSS-Induced Colitis through Improving Intestinal Integrity and Reducing Colonic Inflammation in Mice.

Probiotics, recognized as beneficial and active microorganisms, often face challenges in maintaining their functionality under harsh conditions such as exposure to stomach acid and bile salts. In this investigation, we developed probiotic microcapsules and assessed their protective effects and underlying mechanisms in a murine model of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis using male C57BL/6J mice. The administration of the probiotic microcapsules significantly mitigated body weight loss, prevented colon length shortening, decreased the disease activity index scores, and reduced histopathological scores in mice with DSS-induced colitis. Concurrently, the microencapsulated probiotics preserved intestinal barrier integrity by upregulating the expressions of tight junction proteins ZO-1 and occludin, as well as the mucus layer component MUC-2. Moreover, the treatment with probiotic microcapsules suppressed the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathway in the context of DSS-induced colitis. In conclusion, these findings support the utilization of probiotic microcapsules as a potential functional food ingredient to maintain the permeability of the intestinal barrier and alleviate colonic inflammation in UC.

The evolution and functional divergence of FT-related genes in controlling flowering time in Brassica rapa ssp. rapa.

KEY MESSAGE: The BrrFT paralogues exhibit distinct expression patterns and play different roles in regulating flowering time, and BrrFT4 competes with BrrFT1 and BrrFT2 to interact with BrrFD proteins. Flowering time is an important agricultural trait for Brassica crops, and early bolting strongly affects the yield and quality of Brassica rapa ssp. rapa. Flowering Locus T paralogues play an important role in regulating flowering time. In this study, we identified FT-related genes in turnip by phylogenetic classification, and four BrrFT homoeologs that shared with high identities with BraFT genes were isolated. The different gene structures, promoter binding sites, and expression patterns observed indicated that these genes may play different roles in flowering time regulation. Further genetic and biochemical experiments showed that as for FT-like paralogues, BrrFT2 acted as the key floral inducer, and BrrFT1 seems to act as a mild 'florigen' protein. However, BrrFT4 acts as a floral repressor and antagonistically regulates flowering time by competing with BrrFT1 and BrrFT2 to bind BrrFD proteins. BrrFT3 may have experienced loss of function via base shift mutation. Our results revealed the potential roles of FT-related genes in flowering time regulation in turnip.

A novel HDAC6 inhibitor attenuate APAP-induced liver injury by regulating MDH1-mediated oxidative stress.

Glutathione (GSH) depletion, mitochondrial damage, and oxidative stress have been implicated in the pathogenesis of acetaminophen (APAP) hepatotoxicity. Here, we demonstrated that the expression of histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) is highly elevated, whereas malate dehydrogenase 1 (MDH1) is downregulated in liver tissues and AML-12 cells induced by APAP. The therapeutic benefits of LT-630, a novel HDAC6 inhibitor on APAP-induced liver injury, were also substantiated. On this basis, we demonstrated that LT-630 improved the protein expression and acetylation level of MDH1. Furthermore, after overexpression of MDH1, an upregulated NADPH/NADP+ ratio and GSH level and decreased cell apoptosis were observed in APAP-stimulated AML-12 cells. Importantly, MDH1 siRNA clearly reversed the protection of LT-630 on APAP-stimulated AML-12 cells. In conclusion, LT-630 could ameliorate liver injury by modulating MDH1-mediated oxidative stress induced by APAP.

Bioresorbable shape-adaptive structures for ultrasonic monitoring of deep-tissue homeostasis.

Monitoring homeostasis is an essential aspect of obtaining pathophysiological insights for treating patients. Accurate, timely assessments of homeostatic dysregulation in deep tissues typically require expensive imaging techniques or invasive biopsies. We introduce a bioresorbable shape-adaptive materials structure that enables real-time monitoring of deep-tissue homeostasis using conventional ultrasound instruments. Collections of small bioresorbable metal disks distributed within thin, pH-responsive hydrogels, deployed by surgical implantation or syringe injection, allow ultrasound-based measurements of spatiotemporal changes in pH for early assessments of anastomotic leaks after gastrointestinal surgeries, and their bioresorption after a recovery period eliminates the need for surgical extraction. Demonstrations in small and large animal models illustrate capabilities in monitoring leakage from the small intestine, the stomach, and the pancreas.

Synergistically optimized electron and phonon transport in high-performance copper sulfides thermoelectric materials via one-pot modulation.

Optimizing thermoelectric conversion efficiency requires the compromise of electrical and thermal properties of materials, which are hard to simultaneously improve due to the strong coupling of carrier and phonon transport. Herein, a one-pot approach realizing simultaneous second phase and Cu vacancies modulation is proposed, which is effective in synergistically optimizing thermoelectric performance in copper sulfides. Multiple lattice defects, including nanoprecipitates, dislocations, and nanopores are produced by adding a refined ratio of Sn and Se. Phonon transport is significantly suppressed by multiple mechanisms. An ultralow lattice thermal conductivity is therefore obtained. Furthermore, extra Se is added in the copper sulfide for optimizing electrical transport properties by inducing generating Cu vacancies. Ultimately, an excellent figure of merit of ~1.6 at 873 K is realized in the Cu1.992SSe0.016(Cu2SnSe4)0.004 bulk sample. The simple strategy of inducing compositional and structural modulation for improving thermoelectric parameters promotes low-cost high-performance copper sulfides as alternatives in thermoelectric applications.

Fiber optic cadmium ion sensors based on functionalization of a magnetic ion-imprinted polymer.

Cadmium poisoning is a chronic accumulation process, and long-term drinking of even low cadmium content water will cause kidney damage, so an ultra-low detection limit is particularly important. However, at the present stage, the traditional detection method cannot reach a sufficiently low detection limit, the response time is too long, and the cost of detection is very high, so that real-time measurement cannot be realized. Therefore, the traditional cadmium ion detection method has a slow response and an insufficient detection limit. This paper presents a fiber optic cadmium ion sensor functionalized based on an Fe3O4@SiO2@CS magnetic ion imprinting polymer (M-IIP). The sensor is based on the coupling characteristics of the optical microfiber coupler (OMC) cone region to achieve a highly sensitive response to the change in the cadmium ion concentration. M-IIP materials were prepared by surface imprinting polymerization to achieve low cross-sensitivity and thus improve the detection limit of the sensor. The results show that the developed fiber sensor has high specificity and a rapid response to cadmium ions. The experimental limit of detection (LOD) reached 0.051 nM within 0-1 µM with a response time of less than 50 s. Moreover, the proposed fiber cadmium ion sensor exhibits excellent performance in terms of sensitivity, stability, repeatability and biocompatibility.