Journals
2026 EN
Sun Qihai · Liu ZhiWei · Chi Ming
+3 more
This paper studies the coverage control problem of an unicycle multi‐agent network with external disturbance in a dynamic environment which is described by a time‐varying density function. It is a challenging task to design a coverage control to simultaneously handle the external disturbance, underactuated model and time‐varying density function. Based on Voronoi partition, we proposed a coverage control approach which can maximize the metric function via robust tracking the Voronoi centroid with external disturbance. It is worth to mentioning that the angle of motion of the unicycle agent can align with the Voronoi centroid in finite time. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed control is shown by simulation results.
Journals
2026 EN
Dou Jiangling · Lin Siyu · Yuan Yinsu
+2 more
ABSTRACT A cooperative optimization framework with enhanced parameterized topology and current‐driven dimensionality reduction approach is proposed. The expansion of the design space in both dimensionality and diversity is achieved by the enhanced parameterized topology through the introduction of Boolean and shape variables, which permit free adjustment of geometry, topology type, position, and dimension. Furthermore, rapid dimensionality reduction is achieved using a current‐driven strategy, whereby the current distribution is analyzed to identify critical parameters. The ensuing multi‐objective optimization challenge is addressed by a global‐local cooperative surrogate‐assisted multi‐objective differential evolution algorithm (GLCSA‐MODE). The approach is guided synergistically by global and local surrogate models to achieve rapid enhancement of antenna performance. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed method, a microstrip patch antenna is optimized, fabricated, and measured. The measured results are in good agreement with the simulations, demonstrating an impedance bandwidth of 43.21% (4.88–7.57 GHz) and a flat gain response in the passband. The results confirm the method's effectiveness in dual‐objective optimization and its capability to generate unconventional antenna topologies.
Journals
2026 EN
Yang Qi · Wu Haiwan · Huang Xinlin
+6 more
ABSTRACT Introduction/Aims Dysphagia is a common but under‐characterized complication in Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), contributing to morbidity and healthcare burden. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence, pinpoint risk factors, and assess the adverse clinical outcomes linked to dysphagia in hospitalized patients with ALS. Methods This retrospective cohort study analyzed 23,997 ALS cases derived from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database, covering the years 2010 to 2019. Data collection included patient demographics (age, sex, race/ethnicity), hospital characteristics (size, teaching status, location), clinical parameters (comorbidity profiles, complications), and healthcare utilization metrics (length of stay and hospitalization costs). Results Among 23,997 ALS patients, 7419 (31.7%) were diagnosed with dysphagia. The annual prevalence of dysphagia in ALS patients varied substantially over the decade. Patients with dysphagia experienced a longer hospital stay (5 vs. 4 days; p < 0.001), incurred $6656 in additional hospitalization costs ( p < 0.001), and faced heightened risks of complications such as cognitive impairment, cerebrovascular accidents, respiratory muscle paralysis, and tracheostomy. Multivariate analysis identified several independent risk factors for the development of dysphagia, including age ≥ 65 years, female sex, Hispanic ethnicity, treatment at large or medium‐sized hospitals, care at urban teaching hospitals, and comorbidities such as depression, malnutrition, and weight loss. Discussion Dysphagia affected approximately one‐third of hospitalized ALS patients in this study, contributing to extended hospital stays and increased healthcare costs. Timely screening and tailored interventions are crucial for minimizing complications and maximizing the efficient use of resources.
Journals
2026 EN
Jiang Qianzi · Liang Xueyuan · Li Guangjing
+4 more
Abstract Water‐related ecosystem services (WES) provided by urban rivers are influenced by complex interactions between social and ecological systems. Understanding the public perception of WES is crucial for sustainable planning and management of urban rivers in the future. Although studies on public perception on WES have been growing in recent years, relevant research on urban rivers, particularly on how biophysical factors influence WES perception, remains limited. This study examines the public perception of WES across three types of urban rivers in Jinan, China, using a combination of questionnaire surveys and field investigations. Binary logistic regression is applied to analyse how the biophysical characteristics of urban rivers affect the public perception of WES. The main findings are as follows: (1) Public awareness of WES provided by urban rivers is generally low, especially regarding water purification. (2) The type of river significantly influences public perception, with natural rivers eliciting higher perceptions of WES. (3) The key factors that affect public perceptions of WES include water quality, flow speed, sinuosity, arbour coverage and habitat diversity. (4) Synergistic positive effects on public perceptions are observed among water quality, sinuosity and habitat diversity. This research supports the promotion of public engagement in environmental management and provides valuable insights for policy development and the sustainable development of urban rivers. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Journals
2026 EN
Li Yongchang · Zeng Ao · Ali Rawaid
+7 more
ABSTRACT Bismuth antimony sulfide (BiSbS 3 ) is a promising, low‐cost, and earth‐abundant ternary semiconductor. Its tunable bandgap of 1.2–1.7 eV, combined with high carrier mobility and strong light absorption, makes it ideal for optoelectronic applications. In this study, we have successfully synthesized single‐crystalline BiSbS 3 microrods via a one‐pot hydrothermal process using BiCl 3 , SbCl 3 , and thioacetamide as precursors and demonstrated their promising performance in photodetectors. The structure and composition are confirmed by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy characterizations. The unique 1D morphology of BiSbS 3 significantly enhances light absorption and carrier transport, leading to improved sensitivity and efficiency in light detection. The photodetector based on a single BiSbS 3 microrod manifests an impressive photodetection performance, achieving a switching ratio of 165.2 at a bias voltage of 6 V under 790 nm monochromatic light, a responsivity of 82 A/W, an external quantum efficiency of 18,289%, a detectivity of 2.8 × 10 10 Jones, and fast response times (6.3 ms rise and 4.8 ms fall). These findings highlight the potential of BiSbS 3 microrods for high‐performance, cost‐effective optoelectronic devices.
Journals
2026 EN
Tariq Hamza · Chen Peiyu · Wang Gang
+9 more
Abstract BACKGROUND Alternaria alternata is a globally distributed plant pathogen infecting >400 plant species. Trans ‐2‐decenal is a notable plant‐derived secondary metabolite with strong volatility and antifungal properties, although its specific activity and mode‐of‐action against A. alternata remain unclear. RESULTS Toxicity assays showed that trans ‐2‐decenal inhibited A. alternata with a median inhibitory concentration (IC 50 ) of 12.23 mg L −1 . Treated with trans ‐2‐decenal resulted in hyphal abnormalities, reduced spore production and suppressed spore germination. Mechanistically, it disrupted fungal cell membrane integrity, as confirmed by propidium iodide staining and increased leakage of DNA and soluble proteins in conductivity assays. Further investigations revealed that trans ‐2‐decenal disrupted redox homeostasis by inducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation. DCFH‐DA fluorescence staining showed elevated ROS levels, whereas antioxidant enzyme assays revealed dose‐dependent changes, including decreased superoxide anion (O 2 . − ) and catalase (CAT) activity, and significantly increased hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, collectively indicating oxidative stress and damage. Transcriptome analysis identified 2319 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), with gene ontology (GO) enrichment highlighting inhibition of pathways associated with oxidative stress response, transmembrane transport and ribosome biogenesis. Molecular docking further suggested interactions between trans ‐2‐decenal and key antioxidant enzyme and membrane transporter of A. alternata . In vivo assays showed that 32 mg L −1 trans ‐2‐decenal fumigation achieved protective and curative efficacies of 97.14% and 96.54%, respectively, against yam leaf spot disease. CONCLUSION Trans ‐2‐decenal inhibited A. alternata through a multitarget synergistic mechanism, providing theoretical support for its development as a plant‐derived biofumigant and a promising tool for the green management of A. alternata ‐induced diseases. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Journals
2026 EN
Yang Chun · Duan NaiRui · Fu Hao
+6 more
Abstract BACKGROUND Plant natural products, which serve as innate chemical defenses against pathogens and other invasive pests, are valuable resources for novel agrochemical innovation. Vanillin, a natural antimicrobial compound, has garnered significant attention in food and agrochemical industries in recent years. RESULTS Forty‐one heterocycle‐fused vanillin derivatives were constructed by employing a structural splicing strategy. Bioassays demonstrated that compound 6 exhibited outstanding inhibitory activity against the spore germination of Fusarium oxysporum , with an IC 50 value of 7.0 μg/mL. Compounds 3a , 6 , 7f , and 8 f showed superior inhibitory activity against Botrytis cinerea spores, significantly outperforming their precursor vanillin and the positive controls, difenoconazole and hymexazol. Ten selected compounds inhibited the mycelial growth of Valsa mali , with IC 50 values varying from 3.1 to 30.5 ug/mL. Compound 7'j with an IC 50 value of 4.7 μg/mL showed superior inhibitory potency against the mycelial growth of Alternaria solani than commercial fungicides, hymexazol and carbendazim. In vivo bioassays confirmed the notable protective efficacy of compound 3a against B. cinerea and the marked therapeutic effect of compound 7'j against A. solani . Structure‐activity relationship (SAR) analysis indicated that the combination of 1,3,4‐oxadiazole and benzimidazole may be the optimal scaffolds for fungicidal activity. Cytotoxicity assays revealed low to moderate effects on human keratinocyte (HaCaT), suggesting acceptable mammalian safety profile under dermal exposure for these compounds. CONCLUSION These findings demonstrate that the potent vanillin‐derived analogs reported herein represent promising candidates for novel fungicide development. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Journals
2026 EN
Jin TongJun · Zheng LiYuan · Wang ZhengYang
+3 more
Abstract BACKGROUND The circadian clock is a crucial regulator of life activities in insects, directly influencing survival competitiveness and population expansion. Cryptochrome‐1 ( Cry1 ), a core circadian clock gene, is functionally diverse in insects. RESULTS Phylogenetic analysis revealed that Bactrocera dorsalis Cry1 ( BdCry1 ) clusters closely with Drosophila melanogaster Cry1 ( DmCry1 ), suggesting potential functional conservation. Subsequent expression profiling demonstrated that BdCry1 exhibited robust circadian oscillations and undergoes significant expression fluctuation near the time of adult eclosion in B. dorsalis . To elucidate the functional role of BdCry1 , we generated a knockout strain ( BdCry1 −/− ) via CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated mutagenesis. BdCry1 −/− flies exhibited delayed eclosion timing and disrupted eclosion rhythmicity. Additionally, qPCR revealed significant changes in the transcriptional expression of key neuropeptide genes, including sNPF , PDF , and PTTH . Circadian monitoring of ecdysone (20E) titers by ELISA demonstrated a loss of rhythmic 20E fluctuations and significantly reduced 20E in BdCry1 −/− pupae compared to those in the wild‐type (WT) controls. Moreover, RNA interference‐mediated knockdown of the ecdysone receptor also disrupted eclosion rhythms in WT, confirming the link between eclosion and 20E signaling. CONCLUSION Our findings uncovered a molecular connection between the circadian clock (via Cry1 ) and 20E signaling in the regulation of eclosion rhythms. These results provide novel insights into the integration of hormonal and circadian systems in insects and identify potential molecular targets for the development of biocontrol strategies. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Journals
2026 EN
Sheng Yucheng · Yue Zenglian · Xu Fengyan
+3 more
ABSTRACT Model‐informed drug development (MIDD) framework was employed to bridge sugemalimab dosing from an Asian population to European patients with non‐small cell lung cancer. We evaluated whether a fixed dose of 1200 mg every 3 weeks (Q3W) provides adequate exposure for European patients and, if not, which weight threshold and alternative dose would restore pivotal‐trial exposures and projected benefit. A population pharmacokinetic (popPK) model, developed from 1002 subjects (97.6% Asian) across six clinical trials, was externally validated using data from an extended‐interval higher‐dose regimen. Based on the validated popPK model, exposure simulations for high‐weight European patients (80–150 kg) under various dosing scenarios were then compared to exposures in the pivotal Asian study. Results indicated that while the 1200 mg Q3W dose provided adequate exposure for patients weighing up to 115 kg, those weighing 115–150 kg had lower exposures. To match the exposure‐efficacy profile of the pivotal study, a 1500 mg Q3W dose was proposed for this higher‐weight subgroup. Simulations from exposure‐response (ER) models confirmed that the 1500 mg Q3W dose for high‐weight patients would achieve comparable survival probabilities to the 1200 mg Q3W dose in Asian patients. The proposed regimen of 1500 mg Q3W for patients weighing over 115 kg ensures consistent therapeutic exposure, efficacy, and safety across diverse populations. The MIDD strategy for bridging dose regimens, substantiated by this study, enabled regulatory approval by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the UK Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) without the need for additional dedicated clinical trials.
Journals
2026 EN
Xu Lieqiang · Yu Qiuxia · Li Xiang
+7 more
ABSTRACT Oxyberberine (OBB), a key metabolite of berberine (BBR), has exhibited enhanced pharmacological efficacy compared to BBR. Nonetheless, the potential of OBB in the treatment of hyperuricemic nephropathy (HN) warrants further investigation. Therefore, this investigation focused on elucidating the therapeutic efficacy and underlying mechanism of OBB in counteracting HN. An HN mouse model was established for in vivo study, while uric acid (UA)‐stimulated human renal tubular epithelial cells (HK‐2) were used for in vitro evaluation. Bioinformatics and molecular docking analyses were also employed. Bioinformatics analysis and molecular docking results underscored the critical involvement of the NLRP3 axis in mediating the protective effects of OBB against HN. In vivo, OBB treatment significantly reduced kidney weight and index, improved renal function, and mitigated abnormal histopathological alterations. Moreover, OBB lowered MDA, ROS, IL‐1β, IL‐18, and TNF‐α levels, along with enhanced SOD and CAT activities, both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, OBB markedly lowered serum UA levels by increasing the expression of organic cation transporter 1/2 (OCT1/2) and organic cation/carnitine transporter 1/2 (OCTN1/2) at both transcriptional and translational levels. Additionally, OBB markedly reduced the expression of Keap1, TXNIP, NLRP3, ASC, Caspase‐1, and GSDMD‐N, while promoting Nrf2 nuclear translocation and enhancing the protein expression of HO‐1, NQO1, CAT, SOD1, GCLC, and GPX4. Our results for the first time indicated that OBB treatment exerted a significant anti‐HN effect. It reduced serum UA level by modulating the OCTs and OCTNs, a mechanism distinct from that of current first‐line agents. Additionally, OBB alleviated renal damage through the modulation of the Keap1/Nrf2‐NLRP3 axis.