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The electronic structure of the strongly correlated electron system plutonium hexaboride is studied by using single‐particle approximations and a many‐body approach. Imaginary components of impurity Green's functions show that 5fj=5/2 and 5fj=7/2 manifolds are in conducting and insulating regimes, respectively. Quasi‐particle weights and their ratio suggest that the intermediate coupling mechanism is applicable for Pu 5f electrons, and PuB6 might be in the orbital‐selective localized state. The weighted summation of occupation probabilities yields the interconfiguration fluctuation and average occupation number of 5f electrons n5f ~ 5.101. The interplay of 5f–5f correlation, spin‐orbit coupling, Hund's exchange interaction, many‐body transition of 5f configurations, and final state effects might be responsible for the quasiparticle multiplets in electronic spectrum functions. Prominent characters in the density of state, such as the coexistence of atomic multiplet peaks in the vicinity of the Fermi level and broad Hubbard bands in the high‐lying regime, suggest that PuB6 could be identified as a Racah material. Finally, the quasiparticle band structure is also presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has been a growing interest in venous thromboembolism following spinal surgery over the past few years. However, there currently needs to be a bibliometric report on this field. This study aims to construct the knowledge structure of venous thromboembolism after spinal surgery and explores the current status of research productivity, research directions, hotspots, and trends. All articles related to venous thromboembolism after spinal surgery from the Web of Science Core Collection database for 1990 to 2023 were retrieved. For bibliometric analysis, information extraction involves country/region, institutions, journals, authors, references, and keyword-related data. In this study, a total of 814 articles were identified. Studies related to venous thromboembolism after spinal surgery are showing an increasing trend, with the United States contributing the most. JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY is a high-productivity institution. The journal "SPINE" is highly productive. Research directions cover venous thromboembolism and bleeding, risk factors and prevention, complications, and perioperative blood protection strategies. Current research hotspots are risk factors, surgical location and approach, and perioperative blood protection strategies. Future research trends include establishing a predictive system for venous thromboembolism after spinal surgery to guide personalized prevention and treatment. This study constructed the knowledge structure of venous thromboembolism after spinal surgery, revealing current research hotspots and future trends. Future research trends include personalized prevention and treatment strategies for venous thromboembolism after spinal surgery, especially safe and effective chemical prophylaxis. It is hoped that this study can lay the foundation for subsequent research. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 38-year-old previously healthy woman was referred to our sleep center for recurrent witnessed breathing arrest during sleep. She had been brought to the ED 3 months earlier because of sudden onset of dizziness with nausea and vomiting, numbness and weakness of the left limb, less clear speech, double vision, dysphagia, and choking cough while drinking water. Brain MRI showed an acute cerebral infarction in the left medulla oblongata (Fig 1). High-resolution MRI showed vertebral artery dissection (Fig 2). Antiplatelet aggregation, lipid reduction, plaque stabilization, and trophic nerve treatments were administered, and the left limb strength, speech, and swallowing function improved. She complained of poor sleep and difficulties with memory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bulk density and porosity have great influence on the technical performance of an emulsified asphalt mixture, so in order to enhance the strength of the asphalt mixture, bulk density should be improved and porosity should be reduced. Considering the forming process of the emulsified asphalt mixture, the decrease in porosity can ensure the state of the mixture. In order to reduce the porosity of the emulsified asphalt mixture, an innovative forming process is proposed to improve the performance of the emulsified asphalt mixture, and its strength formation mechanism is explored in this paper. Three groups of emulsified asphalt mixtures (ARC-8 + SBR, SMA-5 + EVA, SMA-5 + SBR) were prepared by a conventional mixing process and novel mixing process. Marshall test of the emulsified asphalt mixture, CT scanning test of the emulsified asphalt mixture, workability test and analysis were manufactured and tested. The results show that, compared with conventional methods, the innovative forming method can increase the bulk density of the mixture and reduce the porosity, and thus improve its technical performance. The reason is that most of the water in the mixture of the innovative forming method sticks to the outer surface of the fine aggregate, and the water is more easily discharged. Secondly, the fine aggregate of the innovative forming method is directly mixed with the emulsion, and the volume is smaller. The emulsion wraps the fine aggregate in it due to the surface tension, which enhances the adhesion effect, thus improving the strength of the mixture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a formulation and implementation of the density functional theory (DFT)+U method within the framework of linear combination of numerical atomic orbitals (NAO). Our implementation not only enables single-point total energy and electronic-structure calculations but also provides access to atomic forces and cell stresses, hence allowing for full structure relaxations of periodic systems. Furthermore, our implementation allows one to deal with non-collinear spin texture, with the spin–orbit coupling (SOC) effect treated self-consistently. The key aspect behind our implementation is a suitable definition of the correlated subspace when multiple atomic orbitals with the same angular momentum are used, and this is addressed via the "Mulliken charge projector" constructed in terms of the first (most localized) atomic orbital within the d/f angular momentum channel. The important Hubbard U and Hund J parameters can be estimated from a screened Coulomb potential of the Yukawa type, with the screening parameter either chosen semi-empirically or determined from the Thomas–Fermi screening model. Benchmark calculations are performed for four late transition metal monoxide bulk systems, i.e., MnO, FeO, CoO, and NiO, and for the 5d-electron compounds IrO2. For the former type of systems, we check the performance of our DFT+U implementation for calculating bandgaps, magnetic moments, electronic band structures, as well as forces and stresses; for the latter, the efficacy of our DFT+U+SOC implementation is assessed. Systematic comparisons with available experimental results, especially with the results from other implementation schemes, are carried out, which demonstrate the validity of our NAO-based DFT+U formalism and implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) may die during the acute phase due to increased intracranial pressure and cerebral herniation. The purpose of this study was to assess the role of decompressive craniectomy in the treatment of patients with malignant CVST. Patients who underwent decompressive craniectomy and were consequently admitted to the Critical Care Unit, Department of Neurosurgery, at Capital Medical University Xuanwu Hospital from March 2010 to January 2021 were retrospectively examined with follow-up data at 12 months. In total, 14 cases were reviewed, including 9 female and 5 male patients, aged 23–63 years (42.7 ± 12.3 years). Prior to surgery, all patients had a GCS score <9. 6 patients had a unilateral dilated pupil, while 4 patients had bilateral dilated pupils. According to the head computed tomography (CT), all patients had hemorrhagic infarction, and the median midline shift was 9.5 mm before surgery. Thirteen patients underwent unilateral decompressive craniectomy, and 1 patient underwent bilateral decompressive craniectomy, among whom, 9 patients underwent hematoma evacuation. Within 3 weeks of surgery, 3 cases (21.43%) resulted in death, with 2 patients dying from progressive intracranial hypertension and 1 from acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Eleven patients (78.57%) survived after surgery, of whom 4 (28.57%) patients recovered without disability at 12-month follow-up (mRS 0–1), 2 (14.29%) patients had moderate disability (mRS 2–3), and 5 (35.71%) patients had severe disability (mRS 4–5). Emergent decompressive craniectomy may provide a chance for survival and enable patients with malignant CVST to achieve an acceptable quality of life (QOL). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In nature, regulation of the spatiotemporal distribution of interfacial receptors and ligands leads to optimum binding kinetics and thermodynamics of receptor–ligand binding reactions within interfaces. Inspired by this, we report a hierarchical fluid interface (HieFluidFace) to regulate the spatiotemporal distribution of interfacial ligands to increase the rate and thermodynamic favorability of interfacial binding reactions. Each aptamer‐functionalized gold nanoparticle, termed spherical aptamer (SAPT), is anchored on a supported lipid bilayer without fluidity, like an "island", and is surrounded by many fluorescent aptamers (FAPTs) with free fluidity, like "rafts". Such ligand "island‐rafts" model provides a large reactive cross‐section for rapid binding to cellular receptors. The synergistic multivalency of SAPTs and FAPTs improves interfacial affinity for tight capture. Moreover, FAPTs accumulate at binding sites to bind to cellular receptors with clustered fluorescence to "lighten" cells for direct identification. Thus, HieFluidFace in a microfluidic chip achieves high‐performance capture and identification of circulating tumor cells from clinical samples, providing a new paradigm to optimize the kinetics and thermodynamics of interfacial binding reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In nature, regulation of the spatiotemporal distribution of interfacial receptors and ligands leads to optimum binding kinetics and thermodynamics of receptor–ligand binding reactions within interfaces. Inspired by this, we report a hierarchical fluid interface (HieFluidFace) to regulate the spatiotemporal distribution of interfacial ligands to increase the rate and thermodynamic favorability of interfacial binding reactions. Each aptamer‐functionalized gold nanoparticle, termed spherical aptamer (SAPT), is anchored on a supported lipid bilayer without fluidity, like an "island", and is surrounded by many fluorescent aptamers (FAPTs) with free fluidity, like "rafts". Such ligand "island‐rafts" model provides a large reactive cross‐section for rapid binding to cellular receptors. The synergistic multivalency of SAPTs and FAPTs improves interfacial affinity for tight capture. Moreover, FAPTs accumulate at binding sites to bind to cellular receptors with clustered fluorescence to "lighten" cells for direct identification. Thus, HieFluidFace in a microfluidic chip achieves high‐performance capture and identification of circulating tumor cells from clinical samples, providing a new paradigm to optimize the kinetics and thermodynamics of interfacial binding reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexural toppling is typically observed in anti-dip bedding rock slopes with a set of steeply dipping parallel joints against the slope face. This failure occurs due to the bending of rock strata, similar to cantilever beams. However, the exact failure surface is usually unknown, which leads to an assumption regarding the location and shape of the failure surface that must be made in the theoretical analysis. This assumption serves as the basis for stability analysis but may lead to errors if it is not appropriate. Therefore, in this study, we provide a detailed and systematic review of the mechanical model, precondition, failure patterns of rock strata, primary controlling factors, morphological characteristics of slope failure surfaces, and theoretical analysis methods of slope stability. We also introduce two practical application cases to better understand the advantages, disadvantages, and application scope of these methods. Additionally, we discuss the existing issues and potential future research developments in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have gradually become an indispensable raw material to regenerate new LIBs and close the material loop. Hence, the development of efficient recovery methods with minimal recovery cost, chemical and energy consumption, and secondary waste emission is essential. Among the various recycling methods, the salt-thermal method has emerged as an efficient approach, which involves the use of inorganic salts as the agent and thermal energy, to drive the desired reactions such as oxide-to-salt conversions and crystal healing with the aim to extract valuable metals from spent LIBs. Unlike pryo-carbothermal reduction methods using a carbon source as the reductant and hydro-leaching methods using inorganic/organic acid as the leaching agent to recycle spent LIBs, the salt-thermal process usually converts spent LIBs materials to Li-rich salt and/or lithium-deficient oxides, which can be easily separated or reutilized. Salt-thermal methods can be used to separate active electrode materials from the current collector, selectively leach valuable elemental metal from cathode materials, and regenerate anode graphite/cathode materials (LiCoO2, LiNixCoyMnzO2, and LiFePO4). Herein, we review the-state-of-art technologies for recycling spent LIBs by salt-thermal approaches such as separation of electrode materials, roasting, electrochemical separation, and regeneration. Furthermore, we summarize the benefits and drawbacks of using inorganic salts (sulfuric, sulfate, chlorinate, ammonium, carbonate, and alkali metal salts) for recycling spent LIBs. It should be noted that some important papers may have been overlooked given that the development of this field has been rapid in recent years. Overall, we hope that this review can make contributions not only in academia but also in the LIB industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ABO3-type perovskite oxide has variable electrocatalytic activity and physicochemical properties, which make it a promising electrochemical sensing material for hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Based on electrospinning and high-temperature tube furnace calcination, using LaNiO3-type perovskite oxide as a template, we synthesized dual-phase La0.9Sr0.1NiO3 nanofiber (LaSrNiO NF) perovskite oxides containing La2NiO4 and La0.9Sr0.1NiO3 with unique one-dimensional tubular nanofiber structure by A-site (Sr2+) doping. The A-site doping technique significantly improves the redox properties of the perovskite oxide itself, which provides good conditions for the electrochemical sensing of H2O2. In addition, the porous tubular nanofiber structures also provide excellent ion transport channels and contact sites for the H2O2-sensing process. LaSrNiO NFs, as H2O2 electrochemical sensing materials, have a wide linear response range of 1 to ∼7000 μM at a low applied potential of 0.2 V and a fast response time (t = 0.9 s), as well as good selectivity and admirable long-term stability. Furthermore, a low detection limit (LOD, S/N = 3) of 0.018 μM and excellent sensitivity of 1667.9 μA mM−1 cm−2 were obtained in voltammetry cycle tests. These results indicate that LaSrNiO NFs prepared by effective doping of Sr2+ are promising for the determination of H2O2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ca 1.15 RE 0.85 Al 0.85 Ti 0.15 O 4 (RE = Nd, La, Y) ceramics were prepared by a reaction sintering method. The sintering behavior, phase composition, microstructure and microwave dielectric performances of ceramics were investigated. X-ray diffraction patterns illustrated that both the Ca 1.15 Nd 0.85 Al 0.85 Ti 0.15 O 4 (CNAT) and Ca 1.15 Y 0.85 Al 0.85 Ti 0.15 O 4 (CYAT) ceramics are single-phase structures, and the Ca 1.15 La 0.85 Al 0.85 Ti 0.15 O 4 (CLAT) ceramic contain LaAlO 3 and CaO phases. The apparent morphology and elemental distribution of the ceramic samples were analyzed by using scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive spectrometer. When the sintering temperature is 1500 °C, the CNAT and CYAT ceramics have the best microwave dielectric properties with ε r = 19.2, Q × f = 74924 GHz, τ f = −1.21 ppm/°C and ε r = 17.5, Q × f = 27440 GHz, τ f = −5.79 ppm/°C, respectively. And the best microwave dielectric properties of ε r = 17.5, Q × f = 22568 GHz, τ f = −14.69 ppm/°C were obtained for the CLAT ceramic sintered at 1525 °C. The reaction sintering method provides a low-cost, economical and straightforward method for the preparation of the Ca 1.15 RE 0.85 Al 0.85 Ti 0.15 O 4 (RE = Nd, La, Y) ceramics, which has promising potential for application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This investigation elucidates the adsorptive and dissociative interactions of CO2 and CO molecules with the δ-Pu (100) surface, utilizing state-of-the-art first-principles calculations. The study unearths that the hollow site epitomizes the most favorable adsorption locus for both CO2 and CO. Within the paramount adsorption configuration, there prevails a propensity for both species to partake in dissociative adsorption, characterized by CO2 cleaving into an O atom and a concomitant CO moiety, whereas CO disintegrates into discrete C and O atoms. The dissociation energy barriers conducive to such configurations are computed to be 3.0568 eV for CO2 and 5.1667 eV for CO. A thorough analysis of electronic charges and density of states intimates a transfer of electrons from the Plutonium surface atoms to the carbonaceous adsorbates during dissociation. Post dissociation of the C-O bond, the 6d orbitals of Plutonium engage in electronic hybridization with the 2p orbitals of Carbon, culminating in the constitution of ionic bonding. [Display omitted] • This manuscript establishes a microscopic model for the adsorption of CO 2 gas molecules on the δ-Pu(1 0 0) surface, capable of simulating the adsorption and dissociation processes of gas molecules based on first-principles methods. • The research findings demonstrate that CO 2 gas molecules exhibit strong adsorption capability on the δ-Pu(1 0 0) surface, with an adsorption energy of 9.3654 eV. This is attributed to the significant deformation of CO 2 molecules during the adsorption process, showcasing the strong chemical reactivity of the δ-Pu(1 0 0) surface. • This manuscript elucidates the microscopic process of the two-step dissociation of CO 2 molecules and calculates the dissociation energies separately. The results indicate that the first-step dissociation of CO 2 molecules is more likely to occur. This investigation elucidates the adsorptive and dissociative interactions of CO 2 and CO molecules with the δ-Pu (1 0 0) surface, utilizing state-of-the-art first-principles calculations. The study unearths that the hollow site epitomizes the most favorable adsorption locus for both CO 2 and CO. Within the paramount adsorption configuration, there prevails a propensity for both species to partake in dissociative adsorption, characterized by CO 2 cleaving into an O atom and a concomitant CO moiety, whereas CO disintegrates into discrete C and O atoms. The dissociation energy barriers conducive to such configurations are computed to be 3.0568 eV for CO 2 and 5.1667 eV for CO. A thorough analysis of electronic charges and density of states intimates a transfer of electrons from the Plutonium surface atoms to the carbonaceous adsorbates during dissociation. Post dissociation of the C-O bond, the 6 d orbitals of Plutonium engage in electronic hybridization with the 2 p orbitals of Carbon, culminating in the constitution of ionic bonding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a solution for simplifying the manufacture of Mg 2 GeO 4 -MgAl 2 O 4 ceramics is reported. The Mg 2 GeO 4 -MgAl 2 O 4 ceramics were obtained from MgO, Al 2 O 3 and GeO 2 powders using the solid phase reaction approach. The phase structure, microscopic morphology and elemental composition of the Mg 2 GeO 4 -MgAl 2 O 4 ceramics were specifically analyzed with XRD, SEM and EDS. The samples contain Mg 2 GeO 4 and MgAl 2 O 4 phases and no other phases are formed. The ceramics have a homogeneous and dense microstructure. This simplified preparation method saves preparation costs and improves the firing behavior of the ceramics, enhancing the microwave dielectric properties of Mg 2 GeO 4 -MgAl 2 O 4 ceramics. Excellent microwave dielectric properties with ε r = 8.0, Q × f = 150000 GHz and τ f = −34 ppm/°C were attained for Mg 2 GeO 4 -MgAl 2 O 4 ceramics sintered at 1600 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the 5G era, the dielectric materials used in microwave electronic components must have not only have good microwave dielectric characteristics but also excellent structural characteristics. Li 2 MgTi 3 O 8 (LMT) ceramics have excellent microwave dielectric properties; however, their low bending strength limits their further applications in the 5G era. In this work, the dielectric properties and bending strength of LMT ceramics were optimized by the addition of Si 3 N 4 reinforcing phase using a solid-phase method, and the effects of Si 3 N 4 addition on the sintering properties, microscopic structure, crystalline phase, dielectric properties and bending strength of ceramics were investigated. The X-ray diffraction pattern indicates that all ceramics exhibit spinel structure. Combined with the phenomenon of grain reduction in the SEM graph, it indicates that the addition of Si 3 N 4 can inhibit the grain growth and achieve the purpose of fine-grain strengthening. The dispersion enhancement of second phase particles is also one of the reasons for the increase of bending strength. LMT ceramics doped with 0.5 wt% Si 3 N 4 exhibited the maximum bending strength after sintering at 1050 °C for 4 h, which was 76.97% higher than that of pure LMT ceramics. In addition, the ceramics exhibited outstanding dielectric properties: a dielectric constant of 23.20, quality factor of 49344 GHz, and temperature coefficient of −5.90 ppm/°C. The high bending strength and good microwave dielectric properties indicate that Si 3 N 4 -added LMT ceramics can be effectively applied in the 5G era. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• More than 98.5 % LiCoO 2 can be recycled in 5 min at 500 ℃. • LiCoO 2 is verified reduced in the turn of LiCoO 2 → CoO ＆ Li 2 O → Co ＆ Li 2 CO 3. • Waste PVs are utilized for the reduction of spent LiCoO 2. Large-scale installations of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) and photovoltaics (PV) modules have been continuously accelerating in recent decades, and the resultant challenge of how to cope with the waste LIBs and PV panels is initially emerging. Here we utilize the pyrolysis gases of the waste PV modules to reduce the LiCoO 2 obtained from the waste LIBs. During pyrolysis, nearly 85–95 wt% of waste PV back sheet is decomposed into reducing gases (CO, CH 4 , C 2 H 4) at 500 °C. With the assistance of these gases, waste LiCoO 2 can be reduced and transformed to water-soluble Li 2 CO 3 and water-insoluble CoO/Co. A high Li recovery rate of 98.5 % is achieved after a 5-min roasting process at 500 °C in a closed reactor. The optimal mass ratio of TPT back sheet to LiCoO 2 is closed to 1: 1. Hence, this research offers a sustainable, high-efficiency, and industry-feasible technology for the extraction of Li and Co coupling with the dismantling of the waste PV models and thereby contributing to the ease of Li supply crisis as well as the circular economy of the LIBs and PV system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is an important role in the properties of emulsified asphalt binder and its evaporation residue about emulsifier, which has been confirmed by experiment and chemical tests. However, there is little research about the emulsifier at microperspective. Therefore, the influence of two kinds of emulsifiers, a typical cationic emulsifier (dodecyl benzene sulfonate) and a typical anionic emulsifier (dodecyl primary amine), on technical properties of emulsified asphalt binder and its evaporation residues such as store stability, workability, breaking behavior, and mechanical properties are investigated using a microapproach. Results show that there is an effective role in the storage stability, workability, and demulsification of emulsified asphalt binder about cationic emulsifier compared with anionic emulsifier. The anionic emulsifier makes the density of evaporation residue larger. However, the mechanical properties of anionic emulsified asphalt evaporation residue are conversely smaller compared with the cationic emulsified asphalt evaporation residue. The adhesion behavior results have confirmed that the anionic emulsified asphalt evaporation residue has a negative adhesion with aggregate due to its anion. The mechanism of the different emulsifiers on asphalt binders and their evaporation residue is explored at a microscale to help us to understand emulsified asphalt binder and its evaporation residue more in depth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Minimizing energy consumption, the amount of chemicals used, and secondary wastes is key to achieving a techno-economic approach for recycling spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Herein, we report a vapor thermal reduction approach to converting lithium transition metal oxides (LTMOs) to water-insoluble TMOs and water-soluble Li salts with markedly reduced water and chemical use, and temperature. Compared with the hydrothermal process, the water vapor approach reduces the usage of water and ammonium salts, making the selective extraction happen at <250 °C. In addition, thermodynamic calculations imply that ammonium salts act as the reducing agent to drive the selective conversion because of the synergic effect of water vapor and ammonium salts. By changing the amount of water and salts, we confirm that ammonium ions and water vapor co-drive the selective extraction of Li from LTMOs with 3–25% of water compared with the hydrothermal process and 18–30% of the amount of salt of the roasting process. Using the optimized water and NH4Cl or (NH4)2SO4, the extraction efficiency of both Li and TMs reaches 98%. Overall, this paper provides a green method to recycle spent LIBs, which can be expanded to selectively separate value metals from various feedstocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the incidence of thyroid carcinoma has increased over the past several decades, it has an excellent prognosis and overall 5-year survival, with a stable mortality rate, except in cases with advanced stages or rare malignant tumor types. Biomarkers have emerged as effective targets of molecular therapy against thyroid carcinoma due to their rapid and convenient detection; however, there has been little clinical application. Macrophage stimulating 2 (Mst2) is a proapoptotic protein with implications in carcinogenesis and metastasis. We found that Mst2 overexpression-induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in MDA-T32 thyroid carcinoma cells, accompanied by elevated caspase-12 activity, increased apoptotic rate, and reduced cell viability. In addition, Mst2 overexpression contributed to mitochondrial damage, as evidenced by increased mitochondrial oxidative stress and activated the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. Inhibition of the JNK pathway abolished these effects. These results show Mst2 to be a novel tumor suppressor that induces mitochondrial dysfunction and ER stress via the JNK pathway. Thus, Mst2 could potentially serve as a biomarker for developing targeted therapy against thyroid carcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recycling spent lithium-ion batteries can close the strategic metal cycle while reducing ecological and environmental footprints of the batteries. However, fewer efforts have been made for the recycling of spent LiFePO4 batteries owing to their relatively lower value than the batteries containing cobalt and nickel. In addition, excess acids are required to extract lithium from the olivine-structured LiFePO4. Herein, we report a paired electrolysis approach employing LiFePO4 as both the anode and the cathode, and molten carbonate as the electrolyte to reclaiming the retired LiFePO4 batteries. The paired electrolysis converts LiFePO4 to Fe at the cathode and to Fe3O4 at the anode while releasing Li+ and PO43− into the molten salt. In this scenario, the electric power drives the redox reactions and thereby separates Li, Fe, and PO43−. The recovery rate of Li reaches over 95.2%. Overall, the paired electrolysis cell containing dual LiFePO4 electrodes employs electrons to break down the olivine structure, which paves a green pathway to recycle various end-of-life LIBs with minimized secondary waste and energy consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As it is very difficult to construct conforming plate elements and the solutions achieved with conforming elements yield inferior accuracy to those achieved with nonconforming elements on many occasions, nonconforming elements, especially Adini's element (ACM element), are often recommended for practical usage. However, the convergence, good numerical accuracy, and high computing efficiency of ACM element with irregular physical boundaries cannot be achieved using either the finite element method (FEM) or the numerical manifold method (NMM). The mixed-order NMM with background cells for integration was developed to analyze the bending of nonconforming thin plates with irregular physical boundaries. Regular meshes were selected to improve the convergence performance; background cells were used to improve the integration accuracy without increasing the degrees of freedom, retaining the efficiency as well; the mixed-order local displacement function was taken to improve the interpolation accuracy. With the penalized formulation fitted to the NMM for Kirchhoff's thin plate bending, a new scheme was proposed to deal with irregular domain boundaries. Based on the present computational framework, comparisons with other studies were performed by taking several typical examples. The results indicated that the solutions achieved with the proposed NMM rapidly converged to the analytical solutions and their accuracy was vastly superior to that achieved with the FEM and the traditional NMM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As it is very difficult to construct conforming plate elements and the solutions achieved with conforming elements yield inferior accuracy to those achieved with nonconforming elements on many occasions, nonconforming elements, especially Adini's element (ACM element), are often recommended for practical usage. However, the convergence, good numerical accuracy, and high computing efficiency of ACM element with irregular physical boundaries cannot be achieved using either the finite element method (FEM) or the numerical manifold method (NMM). The mixed-order NMM with background cells for integration was developed to analyze the bending of nonconforming thin plates with irregular physical boundaries. Regular meshes were selected to improve the convergence performance; background cells were used to improve the integration accuracy without increasing the degrees of freedom, retaining the efficiency as well; the mixed-order local displacement function was taken to improve the interpolation accuracy. With the penalized formulation fitted to the NMM for Kirchhoff's thin plate bending, a new scheme was proposed to deal with irregular domain boundaries. Based on the present computational framework, comparisons with other studies were performed by taking several typical examples. The results indicated that the solutions achieved with the proposed NMM rapidly converged to the analytical solutions and their accuracy was vastly superior to that achieved with the FEM and the traditional NMM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is the most common medical complication associated with pregnancy, which may impose risks on both mother and fetus. Micro RNAs (miRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are implied as vital regulators in GDM. A recent paper revealed dysregulation of miR-33a-5p in placental tissues of GDM patients. However, the biological function of miR-33a-5p in GDM remains elusive. This study focused on exploring the function and underlying mechanisms of miR-33a-5p in GDM. Methods: 12 GDM pregnancies and 12 healthy pregnancies were enrolled in the study. INS-1 cell line was applied in in vitro experiments. The expression levels of miR-33a-5p, lnc-DANCR (Differentiation Antagonizing Non-Protein Coding RNA), and ABCA1 (ATP-binding cassette transporter 1) mRNA were determined by RT-qPCR assay. Glucose and insulin levels were measured by ELISA assay. Luciferase reporter assay and western blot assay were applied to validate the target of miR-33a-5p. Results: miR-33a-5p was upregulated in the blood samples from GDM, and was positively correlated with blood glucose (p < 0.0001). Overexpression or inhibition of miR-33a-5p significantly inhibited or promoted cell growth and insulin production of INS-1 cells (p < 0.01). Furthermore, ABCA1 is a direct target of miR-33a-5p, and lnc-DANCR functions as a sponge for miR-33a-5p to antagonize the function of miR-33a-5p in INS-1 cells. Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that lnc-DANCR-miR-33a-5p-ABCA1 signaling cascade plays a crucial role in the regulation of the cellular function of INS-1 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We identified seizure characteristics, long-term outcome, and predictors of persistent seizures in children with anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (anti-NMDAR) encephalitis.Method: Data were analyzed from patients with anti-NMDAR encephalitis who presented with seizures at our center between August 2012 and June 2018.Results: Sixty-two of 86 patients with anti-NMDAR encephalitis experienced seizures. Seizures occurred within two weeks of disease onset in 58 of 62 (93.6%) patients; 36 of 62 (58.1%) had seizures as the initial symptom. Males were more likely to exhibit seizures as the initial symptom (P = 0.039). More than a quarter of patients (17 of 62, 27.4%) manifested two or more seizure types. Focal seizures were the most common (46 of 62, 74.2%). Status epilepticus occurred in 27 of 62 (43.5%) patients, and nonconvulsive status epilepticus, in two of 62 (3.2%) patients. No patient developed refractory status epilepticus. No systemic tumors were found. Electroencephalographic abnormalities included background slowing (77.4%), absence of a posterior dominant rhythm (62.9%), interictal epileptic discharges (50.0%), and extreme delta brush (6.5%). In the acute phase, 45 patients (45 of 62, 72.6%) received antiepileptic drugs. Persistent seizures occurred in only five of 62 (8%) patients. On univariate analysis, status epilepticus and combination antiepileptic drug treatment were associated with persistent seizures, but neither independently predicted persistent seizures.Conclusions: Multiple seizure types may develop at any stage of anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor encephalitis. Refractory status epilepticus, systemic tumors, and extreme delta brush in electroencephalography are rare in pediatric patients. Anti-NMDAR encephalitis-associated seizures appear to have good prognosis, without the need for long-term antiepileptic drug treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Acute fatty liver of pregnancy (AFLP) is a relatively rare obstetric emergency usually accompanied by fatal complications. Numerous studies have evaluated the potential risk factors for outcomes in patients with AFLP. But rare studies evaluated the predictive ability, sensitivity and specificity of the risk factors for maternal mortality. Thus, in this multicenter research, we aimed to further prove the predictive ability of the MELD model, investigated the prognostic value of history of abortion (HOA), total bilirubin (TBiL) and serum creatinine (SCr) and explored new predictive models for predicting maternal mortality in patients with AFLP. Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study of 133 hospitalised patients with AFLP in four Chinese tertiary hospitals between January 2009 and April 2014. Results: The maximal AUC amongst three independent risk factors for maternal death was TBiL with a cut-off point of > 131.9 μmol/L, showing a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 55.9%. The threshold of the RF model for maternal mortality was − 1.629 and the AUC was 0.876, with an 81.8% sensitivity and an 80.2% specificity. The AUC for MELD model to predict maternal death was 0.894, and the best cut-off point was 28 with a sensitivity of 81.8% and a specificity of 84.7%. Conclusions: Both the MELD model and the RF model showed good efficacy in predicting the maternal mortality in patients with ALFP (AUC = 0.894 and 0.876, respectively). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pressure curves inside the reactor along with reaction time, which also exhibts the transformation process of LiCoO 2 and ethanol–water. [Display omitted] • Ethanol-water assisted vapor thermal reduction was developed for selectively extracting lithium from spent LIBs. • Over 99% of Li and transition metals were separated by one step. • Chemical delithiation was completed at 370 °C in 2 h. • LTMO mateirals are a potential catalyst to enable the converntion of ethanol to generate CH 4 and H 2 gas. Pre-extraction of lithium from spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) is highly required to obtain a high recovery rate of lithium. Here, we report an ethanol–water vapor thermal reduction approach in a sealed reactor to selectively recycle lithium and transition metal oxides (TMOs) from spent LIBs. Spent cathode materials were converted to LiOH and TMO by the reduction of water-alcohol vapor at a temperature of 350–400 °C. More than 99 % of the Li in LiCoO 2 was selectively extracted from LiCoO 2 at 370 °C for 2 h and at 400 °C for 0.8 h. The selective extraction is co-driven by water and alcohol that enable the reduction of LiCoO 2 and release water-soluble LiOH and water-insoluble TMOs. In addition, the water–vapor thermal reduction method is applicable to selectively recovery Li from different types of cathode materials such as NCMs and lithium manganese oxide. The pre-selective extraction ensures a high lithium recovery rate and a reagent-saving manner. We envision that the vapor thermal recovery method could help recycle spent LIBs by an environmentally friendly and economically reasonable way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selectively recycling degraded cathode materials from retired lithium-ion battery is an efficient approach which could shorten recovery processes and reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. Herein, we propose a fast ammonium sulfate ((NH 4) 2 SO 4) salt roasting method to extract Li and recycle FePO 4 from commerical LiFePO 4 cathode materials. Compared with the traditional hydrometallurgy recovery process, (NH 4) 2 SO 4 assisted roasting achieved the fast delithiation of LiFePO 4 within 5 min at 300 °C, and converted LiFePO 4 to FePO 4 in air atmosphere. Almost 98% of Li was converted to soluble Li 2 SO 4 , and air acted as a clean and cheap oxidant. TG-DSC analysis in different atmospheres indicated that the whole reaction mainly consisted of two steps: (NH 4) 2 SO 4 firstly decomposed to NH 4 HSO 4 and (NH 4) 2 S 2 O 7 , and then the LiFePO 4 reacted with O 2 , (NH 4) 2 SO 4 and (NH 4) 2 S 2 O 7 at ∼300 °C. Thermodynamic analysis also supported the above reaction mechanism. In a word, (NH 4) 2 SO 4 salt assisted roasting provides an effective approach to selectively extracting Li from polyanionic cathode materials. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epitaxial growth of CoSi[sub 2] by solid state reaction of Co/a-Si/Ti/Si(100) is investigated. A Ti/a-Si composite interlayer is used to modify the diffusion barrier and influence the epitaxial growth process. The epitaxial quality of the CoSi[sub 2] is improved compared to the film grown by Co/Ti/Si reaction. A multielement amorphous layer is formed by a solid-state amorphization reaction at the initial stage of the multilayer reaction. This layer acts as a diffusion barrier, which controls the atomic interdiffusion of Co and Si while limiting the supply of Co atoms. CoSi[sub 2] grows as the first phase and the growth interface of the epitaxial CoSi[sub 2] is at both the CoSi[sub 2]/Si and CoSi[sub 2]/CoSi interfaces. Investigation of the growth kinetics shows that the activation energy of CoSi[sub 2] formation is larger than that without an amorphous Si layer. © 2001 American Institute of Physics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to investigate the role of microRNA-146a (miR-146a) in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), and to further assess its underlying mechanism. An ICH rat model was established in the current study and 1 h following ICH induction, rats were treated with or without an miR-146a mimic. A total of 3 days following ICH induction, rat neurological score, brain water content and neuronal apoptosis were measured via flow cytometry. Levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β were detected via ELISA and certain biomarkers of oxidative stress, including malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, were also determined in current study. The expression of genes and proteins were detected in current study via reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting, respectively. MicroRNA.org software and a dual luciferase reporter assay were used to confirm the association between miR-146a and TRAF6. The results of the current study revealed that miR-146a was significantly downregulated in ICH rats, and its overexpression reduced neurological damage and brain edema, as evidenced by decreased neurological scores and brain water content. Results from further analyses demonstrated that the overexpression of miR-146a inhibited neuronal apoptosis, reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine production and prevented oxidative stress in ICH rats. In addition, it was revealed that the upregulation of miR-146a repressed the TRAF6/NF-κB pathway in the brain tissue of ICH rats. TRAF6 was also determined to be a target of miR-146a. In conclusion, these data indicated that miR-146a protects against ICH by inhibiting inflammation and oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achieving low resistance contacts and high carrier mobility are common concerns for obtaining high performance of graphene devices. In graphene FETs (GFETs), the work functions (WF) of electrode materials and metal-graphene (M-G) contact configurations have remarkable influences on contact properties of M-G. In this work, the contact properties of Cu-G are improved prominently by inserting a nanoscale MoOx (x<3) ultra-thin layer formed by annealing Mo film in the air atmosphere at 150°C between the electrode and graphene in GFETs. Results show that MoOx can not only induce the p-doping, but also induce end contact to graphene characterized by Mo-C carbide formation from the XPS and TEM results. The relationship between the improvement of contact properties of M-G and the thickness of MoOx layer inserted at source/drain region was further investigated. It is shown that, within 0-3 nm thickness of MoOx, the thicker the MoOx deposited, the better the output characteristics and the greater the field mobilities are. The mechanism of that MoOx deposited at source-drain helps improving the carrier mobility is discussed and is related to improved interface between graphene and SiO2. This study provides a simple and important way to improve contact properties of M-G and carrier mobility of contact and graphene FET. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A temperature stability microwave dielectric ceramic with composition of Li 2 MgTi 3 O 8 (LMT) and Al 2 O 3 with high flexural strength is synthesized by a conventional solid-state reaction method. The effects of Al 2 O 3 (particles and whiskers) doping on the mechanical and dielectric properties of LMT ceramics are studied. A single spinel structure, without any secondary phases, is detected in the Al 2 O 3 particles and Al 2 O 3 whiskers doped LMT ceramics. The maximum flexural strengths of 152.5 MPa and 166.73 MPa are delivered in LMT +0.3 wt % Al 2 O 3 (p) ceramics and LMT + 0.3 wt % Al 2 O 3 (w) ceramics, respectively, which are enhanced by 53.21% and 67.52% over those of unmodified LMT ceramics. Pinning and grain refinement contribute to the enhanced flexural strength of the system. The intrinsic factors of Q × f change are analyzed by calculating the packing fraction and lattice energy. In addition, ceramics exhibit excellent comprehensive microwave properties at 1050 °C: (LMT + 0.2 wt % Al 2 O 3 (p): Q × f = 67056 GHz, τ f = −8.25 ppm/°C, ε r = 24.34, σ f = 133.3 MPa; LMT + 0.1 wt % Al 2 O 3 (w): Q × f = 68670 GHz, τ f = −8.94 ppm/°C, ε r = 24.32, σ f = 122.7 MPa) The results indicate that Al 2 O 3 particles and Al 2 O 3 whiskers are decent reinforcing agents for LMT ceramics. Synopsis: The Q × f value is affected by grain size, packing fraction and lattice energy. The external factors mainly depend on the grain size. The addition of Al 2 O 3 particles and Al 2 O 3 whisker can effectively enhance the flexural strength of LMT ceramics, the flexural strength increased by 53.21% and 67.52%, respectively. [Display omitted] • A temperature stability with high Q × f value ceramics Al 2 O 3 doped Li 2 MgTi 3 O 8 (LMT) are synthesized. • LMT ceramics doped with Al 2 O 3 have finer grain structure and smaller average grain size. • Al 2 O 3 particles and Al 2 O 3 whiskers doped LMT ceramics enhance the flexural strength by 53.21% and 67.52%. • Excellent property: Q × f = 67056 GHz, τ f = −8.25 ppm/°C, ε r = 24.34, σ f = 133.3 MPa has been achieved with LMT +0.2 wt % Al 2 O 3 (p) ceramic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Six molecular models of asphalt binders at different aging states are created. • Asphalt binder models are optimized according to some chemical test. • Study on different aging states of asphalt binder on a micro scale. • Some correlations between micro and macro properties of asphalt binders are proposed. Abstract The asphalt binder in pavement mixtures frequently exposed to oxygen and undergoes daily temperature cycles. This results in oxidation and dehydrogenation of its chemical composition, leading to the aging of the asphalt binder. The aging process of asphalt binder directly affects the pavement’s service life and therefore has been subject to intense research regarding the chemical composition and rheological properties. However, the microscopic reasons for these changes are not yet clear. A molecular dynamics (MD) simulation is employed to investigate the aging process from a microscale perspective. Six molecular models for six asphalt binders at different aging states are created based on the ratio of saturates, aromatics, resin and asphaltene (SARA) as well as carbonyl and sulfoxide indexes to investigate the effect of aging on physical properties of asphalt binder have been investigated. The results explain the mechanism for hardening of asphalt binder during aging process, and find some correlations between micro and macro phenomena. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Vertically well-aligned ZnO nanorods (NRs) with good crystallization quality and obvious UV photoluminescence (PL) characteristics were grown by hydrothermal method and Ar plasma etching. Schottky diodes were made by evaporating Pt dots on these ZnO NRs. The effects of Ar plasma etching on the PL and Schottky properties of the prepared ZnO NRs were investigated. Compared with the as-grown ZnO NRs, the UV and visible peak area ratio in the PL spectra increased from 3.8 to 840 with decreased reverse current from 10−3 A to 10−6 A, and increased current on/off ratio of the ZnO NRs Schottky diode from 1 to 102 after 60-min Ar plasma etching. The results suggest that the low-energy Ar plasma etching is an effective method to promote the performance of the Pt/ZnO NRs diode by improving the crystallization quality of the ZnO NRs. Highlights • We found that the low energy Ar plasma etching has a pronounced effect on ZnO NRs, resulting in a significant increase of UV emission and vanished defect emission. • The effects of Ar plasma etching on contact properties of the prepared Pt/ZnO diodes were investigated. • The Ar plasma etching reduces the reverse current and increases the on/off ratio of the Schottky diode about two orders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The promotion effect of O2 on the dissociative adsorption of H2O to UO2 surface is studied by first-principles method within generalized gradient approximation formalism corrected by on-site Coulomb interaction. Investigations on all UO2 low index surfaces indicate that U-terminate (001) surface is the highest energy surface. For the adsorption of O2 and H2O on the U-terminate UO2(001) surface, all O2 molecules dissociate spontaneously while H2O molecules only dissociate incompletely in some specific initial configurations. The results of co-adsorption demonstrate the promotion effect of O2 on the dissociative adsorption of H2O, and two different promotion mechanisms are studied detailedly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Influence of substitutional Fe, Al and Mg atoms on the corrosion of α-U(110) surface was studied by DFT + U method. The calculations results indicate that impurity atoms inhibit the dissociation of H2O molecular. Although the impurity atoms do not impede the dissociation of O2 molecular, they lower the binding energy of the dissociated O atoms with the substitutional surfaces. Through the investigation on the surface diffusion and into-bulk penetration, it could be confirmed that Fe, Al and Mg atoms accelerate the hydrogenation of α-uranium surface, while improve the anti-oxidizing ability of α-uranium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Snow albedo feedback (SAF) behaves similarly in the current and future climate contexts; thus, constraining the large intermodel variance in SAF will likely reduce uncertainty in climate projections. To better understand this intermodel spread, structural and parametric biases contributing to SAF variability are investigated. We find that structurally varying snowpack, vegetation, and albedo parameterizations drive most of the spread, while differences arising from model parameters are generally smaller. Models with the largest SAF biases exhibit clear structural or parametric errors. Additionally, despite widespread intermodel similarities, model interdependency has little impact on the strength of the relationship between SAF in the current and future climate contexts. Furthermore, many models now feature a more realistic SAF than in the prior generation, but shortcomings from two models limit the reduction in ensemble spread. Lastly, preliminary signs from ongoing model development are positive and suggest a likely reduction in SAF spread among upcoming models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glaucoma is an optic neuropathy commonly associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) resulting in progressive loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and optic nerve degeneration, leading to blindness. New therapeutic approaches that better preserve the visual field by promoting survival and health of RGCs are highly needed since RGC death occurs despite good IOP control in glaucoma patients. We have developed a novel approach to reliably induce chronic IOP elevation in mouse using a photopolymerizable biomatrix, hyaluronic acid glycidyl methacrylate. This is achieved by rapid in vivo crosslinking of the biomatrix at the iridocorneal angle by a flash of ultraviolet A (UVA) light to impede the aqueous outflow pathway with a controllable manner. Sustained IOP elevation was induced after a single manipulation and was maintained at ~45% above baseline for >4 weeks. Significant thinning of the inner retina and ~35% reduction in RGCs and axons was noted within one month of IOP elevation. Optic nerve degeneration showed positive correlation with cumulative IOP elevation. Activation of astrocytes and microglia appeared to be an early event in response to IOP elevation preceding detectable RGC and axon loss. Attenuated glial reactivity was noted at later stage where significant RGC/axon loss had occurred suggesting astrocytes and microglia may play different roles over the course of glaucomatous degeneration. This novel murine glaucoma model is reproducible and displays cellular changes that recapitulate several pathophysiological features of glaucoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uncoupled endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) produces O 2 − instead of nitric oxide (NO). Earlier, we reported rapamycin, an autophagy inducer and inhibitor of cellular proliferation, attenuated low shear stress (SS) induced O 2 − production. Nevertheless, it is unclear whether autophagy plays a critical role in the regulation of eNOS uncoupling. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the modulation of autophagy on eNOS uncoupling induced by low SS exposure. We found that low SS induced endothelial O 2 − burst, which was accompanied by reduced NO release. Furthermore, inhibition of eNOS by L-NAME conspicuously attenuated low SS-induced O 2 − releasing, indicating eNOS uncoupling. Autophagy markers such as LC3 II/I ratio, amount of Beclin1, as well as ULK1/Atg1 were increased during low SS exposure, whereas autophagic degradation of p62/SQSTM1 was markedly reduced, implying impaired autophagic flux. Interestingly, low SS-induced NO reduction could be reversed by rapamycin, WYE-354 or ATG5 overexpression vector via restoration of autophagic flux, but not by N -acetylcysteine or apocynin. eNOS uncoupling might be ascribed to autophagic flux blockade because phosphorylation of eNOS Thr495 by low SS or PMA stimulation was also regulated by autophagy. In contrast, eNOS acetylation was not found to be regulated by low SS and autophagy. Notably, although low SS had no influence on eNOS Ser1177 phosphorylation, whereas boosted eNOS Ser1177 phosphorylation by rapamycin were in favor of the eNOS recoupling through restoration of autophagic flux. Taken together, we reported a novel mechanism for regulation of eNOS uncoupling by low SS via autophagy-mediated eNOS phosphorylation, which is implicated in geometrical nature of atherogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MicroRNA‑210 (miRNA‑210) has been reported to be associated with angiogenesis and may serve important roles in acute myocardial infarction (AMI), which remain unclear. The present study sought to evaluate the efficacy of miRNA‑210 in AMI and to examine the potential associated mechanisms. AMI models were established in Sprague‑Dawley rats. The expression of miRNA‑210 was upregulated via transfection with lentivirus‑mediated agonists and quantitative analysis was performed using the reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‑qPCR). Immunoblotting and RT‑qPCR were separately used to detect the expression levels of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in heart samples, while only the protein expression level of β‑myosin heavy chain (β‑MHC) was assessed. The expression of HGF in human umbilical vein endothelial cells under hypoxic conditions was silenced by transfecting with small interfering RNA, as demonstrated by the determination of associated protein expression levels. The microvessel density (MVD) of the infarcted myocardium was selected to be the angiogenesis efficacy endpoint, which was evaluated by platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule immunostaining. Markedly increased expression of HGF was observed among the AMI rats receiving miRNA‑210 agonists, demonstrated via quantitative analyses using RT‑qPCR or western blotting. Promotion of angiogenesis was observed with the increased MVD. Improved cardiac function in the rats was subsequently noted, as they exhibited improved left ventricular fractional shortening and left ventricular ejection fraction percentages, which may result from improved cardiac contractility indicated by attenuating the increase in β‑MHC protein expression. Overexpression of miRNA‑210 appeared to be an advantageous therapeutic tool for treating AMI, primarily due to its promoting effects on angiogenesis in the infarcted myocardium by stimulating HGF expression and inducing improved left ventricular remodeling, leading to improved cardiac function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims In this study, we conducted a meta-analysis to systematically compare the diagnostic accuracy of IGRAs performed for extrasanguinous body fluids with that performed for blood in the diagnosis of TB. Main methods Multiple English and Chinese databases were searched up to November 2017. Studies that complied with the guidelines for the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies and used QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube and/or T-SPOT.TB (ELISPOT) assays on both blood and extrasanguinous body fluids were included. Statistical analysis was performed using Stata 12.0 software. Since publication bias is a concern in the meta-analysis of diagnostic studies, we tested for this using Begg's funnel plots. Key finding Among the 1332 articles searched from the databases, 24 articles met the inclusion criteria, which included 1040 samples in the patient group and 1044 samples in the control group. For extrasanguinous body fluids, the pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio (PLR), negative likelihood ratio (NLR), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), and summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) area under the curve (AUC) were 87% (95% CI: 0.81–0.91), 89% (95% CI: 0.84–0.93), 8.22 (95% CI 5.38–12.56), 0.15 (95% CI: 0.10–0.21), 44.92 (95% CI: 25.61–78.81), and 0.94 (95% CI: 0.92–0.96), respectively. For peripheral blood, these values were 83% (95% CI: 0.79–0.87), 74% (95% CI: 0.68–0.79), 3.17 (95% CI 2.63–3.84), 0.23 (95% CI: 0.19–0.29), 12.99 (95% CI: 10.19–16.57), and 0.86 (95% CI: 0.82–0.89), respectively. Significance IGRAs performed on extrasanguinous body fluids exhibited a better diagnostic accuracy compared with IGRAs performed on peripheral blood for diagnosing TB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crystallization behavior and morphology of PLA blended with 0.05-1.00 wt % loadings of poly(D-lactic acid) (PDLA) forming stereocomplex crystallites as in-situ nucleating agents, were studied using wideangle X-ray diffraction (WAXD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and polarizing-light optical microscopy (POM). Blending PLA with small amount of PDLA does lead to formation of PLA stereocomplex (SC), although the PLA is a random copolymer. The in-situ formed SC crystal acted as nucleation sites in blends and accelerated the crystallization of PLA by decreasing the half-time (t1/2). The nucleation efficiency of PDLA obviously increased and the crystallization induction time decreased while the content of PDLA reached up to 0.20 wt %. While the content of PDLA is 0.2 wt %, the nucleation efficiency of PDLA is up to 43.8%, and the induction time decreased from 430 to 88 s. In addition, compared with pure PLA, t1/2 decreases from 15.1 to 3.5 min at Tc = 127.5°C while the amount PDLA is 1.0 wt %. The equilibrium melting temperature of PLA decreased from 187.2 to 181.2°C with the increase of PDLA content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic algorithm is a kind of algorithm which applies the theory of natural evolution to search. In the process of mechanical design, genetic algorithm or improved genetic algorithm has become a hot research topic. In this paper, with the advantages of nonlinear genetic algorithm, the kinematic performance of planar five bar linkage was optimized. The objective function was defined as the Jacobi number of the parallel mechanism, which solved the optimization problem of the rod length. According to the optimized length of the five bar mechanism, kinematics simulation was carried out in MATLAB, and the trajectory of the third joints of the five-bar mechanism was optimized. According to the calculation results, the Jacobi condition number of five bar mechanism was compared. The results show that the proposed algorithm can effectively improve the performance of five bar mechanism, so the effect of genetic algorithm on mechanical optimal design is proved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional asphalt binder derived from the petroleum refining process is widely used in pavement engineering. However, asphalt binder is a non-renewable material. Therefore, the use of a co-production of renewable bio-oil as a modifier for petroleum asphalt has recently been getting more attention in the pavement field due to its renewability and its optimization for conventional petroleum-based asphalt binder. Significant research efforts have been done that mainly focus on the mechanical properties of bio-asphalt binder. However, there is still a lack of studies describing the effects of the co-production on performance of asphalt binders from a micro-scale perspective to better understand the fundamental modification mechanism. In this study, a reasonable molecular structure for the co-production of renewable bio-oils is created based on previous research findings and the observed functional groups from Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy tests, which are fundamental and critical for establishing the molecular model of bio-asphalt binder with various biomaterials contents. Molecular simulation shows that the increase of biomaterial content causes the decrease of cohesion energy density, which can be related to the observed decrease of dynamic modulus. Additionally, a parameter of Flexibility Index is employed to characterize the ability of asphalt binder to resist deformation under oscillatory loading accurately. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are one of the most common endocrine-disrupting chemicals and have obvious toxicity on human reproductive development. The aim of our study was to investigate the toxicity of chronic 2,3′,4,4′,5-pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB 118) exposure on embryo implantation and endometrial receptivity, with the possible mechanism of DNA methylation involved. Virgin CD-1 female mice (3 weeks old) were housed and orally treated with PCB 118 (0, 1, 10, 100 μg/kg) for a month. After mating with fertile males, the pregnant mice were killed on gestation day 4.5. Compared with the control group, implantation failures were observed in 1 μg/kg PCB 118– and 100 μg/kg PCB 118–treated groups. Abnormal endometrial morphology with open uterine lumens and densely compact stromal cells and poorly developed pinopodes were substantially in response to PCB 118 doses above, as well as the significant downregulation of implantation-associated genes (estrogen receptor 1, homeobox A10 [HOXA10], integrin subunit beta 3) and hypermethylation in the promoter region of HOXA10 further. It was confirmed that chronic exposure to PCB 118 produced an increased number of implantation failures in association with a defective uterine morphology during the implantation period. Alterations in methylation of HOXA10 could explain, at least in part, the mechanism of effects of PCB 118 exposure on the implantation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Living tissues rely heavily on vascular networks to transport nutrients, oxygen and metabolic waste. However, there still remains a need for a simple and efficient approach to engineer vascularized tissues. Here, we created prevascularized tissues with complex three-dimensional (3D) microarchitectures using a rapid bioprinting method – microscale continuous optical bioprinting (μCOB). Multiple cell types mimicking the native vascular cell composition were encapsulated directly into hydrogels with precisely controlled distribution without the need of sacrificial materials or perfusion. With regionally controlled biomaterial properties the endothelial cells formed lumen-like structures spontaneously in vitro . In vivo implantation demonstrated the survival and progressive formation of the endothelial network in the prevascularized tissue. Anastomosis between the bioprinted endothelial network and host circulation was observed with functional blood vessels featuring red blood cells. With the superior bioprinting speed, flexibility and scalability, this new prevascularization approach can be broadly applicable to the engineering and translation of various functional tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Seafood is regarded as a high-purine food that may induce gout, which has attracted extensive attention concerning its safety. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop a simple and reliable method to determine the purine content in seafood and its change during storage to offer consumers healthy diet information. RESULTS Chromatographic separation was carried out using Waters Atlantis dC18 column, and potassium phosphate monobasic solution (0.02 mol L−1, pH 3.6) as a mobile phase. The average recovery yields of four purines were 91.5-105.0%, and relative standard deviation values were around 1.8-6.5%. Shrimp and snail contained higher amounts of purine than fish and bivalves; the livers and skins of fish contained higher amounts of purine than muscles; and the main purine varied depending on the type of seafood. Also, purine content of seafood changed during storage. CONCLUSION The purine content of seafood differed depending on species, body part and degree of freshness, which could recommend consumers a healthy diet, especially for people with hyperuricemia and gout. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Electrochemical approach regulated the interlayered charge distribution. • Ion pre-intercalation shrunk d -value of the interlayer spacing at atom level. • The Al3+ ions confined by MXene interlayer limited structural damage. 2D extended interspacing confined by MXene determines its function as intercalation electrodes of alkali metal ions batteries. However, the space electric field distribution within the adjacent MXene layers sets a barrier to the transport behavior of alkali metal ions. The presence of surface functional groups induces the negatively charged MXene and further leads to a deteriorative ion storage. Herein, the polar Al3+ pre-intercalated Ti 3 C 2 T x MXene electrodes were prepared by an electrochemical approach to understand and optimize the interlayer charge distribution. The interactional relationship among intercalating space, interlayered charge distribution, and insertion/desertion behavior of electrolyte ions were investigated. The pre-intercalated Al3+ can induce a shrinkage of the restricted interlayer spacings and lead to a compressive strain of MXene. Moreover, these Al3+ confined interlayer space of MXene also can decrease electrostatic potential and regulate the charge density of original Ti 3 C 2 T x MXene to improve electron transfer and lithium ion diffusion rate. The Ti 3 C 2 T x -Al3+ electrode increased by 113.7 % in ion storage capacity. This work unlocks a new insight into the rational design of MXene electrodes based on ion pre-intercalation modulates interlayer environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High efficient photocatalytic nitrogen fixation is an alternative strategy to solve the problems of energy consumption and environmental pollution of industrial ammonia production effectively, hence the selection and modification of catalysts are very important to improve the nitrogen fixation efficiency. In this article, a straightforward Z-scheme 0D/2D CsPbBr 3 /Bi 2 WO 6 heterojunction was successfully constructed via a simple electrostatic self-assembly approach. By combining CsPbBr 3 quantum dots (CPB QDs) with ultrathin Bi 2 WO 6 (BWO) nanosheets, a large-area heterointerface of CPB QDs and BWO nanosheets was connected tightly thus shortened the charge transport distance effectively. This facilitates the efficient charge transfer between CPB and BWO through the Z-scheme interface, thereby achieving the purpose of promoting charge separation, which is well validated in differential charge. On the basis of various characterizations, the results indicated that the CPB/BWO heterojunction possessed an excellent photocatalytic nitrogen fixation performance: the production of NH 3 at 3CPB/BWO heterojunctions (126.3 μmol‧g−1‧h−1) was about 17.1 times higher than that of pure CPB QDs. The new strategy may offer a new opportunity to the exploration and the research of halide perovskite-type photo catalysts with obviously enhanced nitrogen fixation activities. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several metabolic, genetic and oncogenic bone diseases share the common pathological phenotype of defective bone marrow stromal cell (BMSC) differentiation. Many reports in bone science in the past several years have suggested that the skeleton also has an endocrine role. The role of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) as an energy metabolism sensor and how it regulates BMSC differentiation is largely unknown. In the current study, we used AMPK agonists to activate AMPK in MC3T3-E1 cells to investigate the functional roles of AMPK in osteogenesis. However, metformin and AICAR failed to activate AMPK consistently. Therefore, we established MC3T3-E1 and 3T3-L1 cell models of AMPK α subunit overexpression through lentivirus vector, in which AMPK was overactivated. AMPK hyperactivation stimulated MC3T3-E1 cell osteogenesis and inhibited 3T3-L1 cell adipogenesis. Osteopontin (OPN) mediated AMPK regulation of osteogenesis and adipogenesis. Furthermore, we provided evidence that the transcriptional repressor growth factor independence-1 (Gfi1) was downregulated and disassociated from the OPN promoter in response to AMPK activation, resulting in the upregulation of OPN. Overexpression of wild-type and dominant-negative Gfi1 modulated MC3T3-E1 osteogenesis and 3T3-L1 adipogenesis. Further evidence suggested that AMPK enhanced ectopic bone formation of MC3T3-E1 cells through the AMPK-Gfi1-OPN axis. In conclusion, AMPK was sufficient to stimulate osteogenesis of MC3T3-E1 cells and inhibit adipogenesis of 3T3-L1 cells through the AMPK-Gfi1-OPN axis. These findings helped elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying AMPK regulation of osteogenesis and adipogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and cardiovascular diseases in later life, yet with underlying mechanisms unclear. The present study was to explore the association of upregulated histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC 2) with the impaired mitochondrial function and the cytokine secretion in the monocytes/macrophages from GDM patients. In this study, we examined the mitochondrial function, proinflamatory cytokine secretion and the HDAC 2 level in the serum or in the monocytes/macrophages from GDM patients, investigated the influence by HDAC 2 inhibitor, AR-42 (N-hydroxy-4-[[(2S)-3-methyl-2-phenylbutanoyl]amino]benzamide), on the mitochondrial function and cytokine secretion in the isolated GDM monocytes/macrophages. Results demonstrated an increased mitochondria size, mitochondrial superoxide and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and an undermined mitochondria membrane potential (MMP) in the GDM monocytes/macrophages. And the serum levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and IL-6 were also markedly higher in the GDM pregnancies, while the expression and activity of HDAC 2 was downregulated. Moreover, AR-42-mediated HDAC 2 inhibition in vitro contributed to the impaired mitochondrial function and the proinflamatory cytokine secretion. In conclusion, this study suggests an association of the impaired mitochondrial function and the promoted proinflamatory cytokine secretion with the reduced HDAC 2 activity in GDM. These findings may present HDAC 2 as a target for GDM treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]