Search

Asymmetric bifurcate are common in the vascular system, and circulating tumour cells (CTCs) tend to metastasize at these locations. In this study, the dissipative particle dynamics method is used to simulate the motion of a CTC in an asymmetric microvessel combined with a spring-based network model. Effects of flow rate, the presence of RBCs and haematocrit on the motion of the CTC are investigated. The results indicate that under higher flow rate, the CTC could not adhere to the microvessel and invariably migrated towards the branch exhibiting a higher flow rate. In the presence of RBCs, the initially attached CTC would disassociate from the parent vessel wall under the collisions with them, and it finally enters into the large branch. While at lower flow rates, the RBCs pass over the CTC that is rolling along the top wall of the parent vessel and overtake it, facilitating the CTC adhesion, it ultimately moves into the small branch. At a mediate flow rate, though the attached CTC detaches and enters into the large branch, it would touch the inner wall of the branch. With the haematocrit increasing up to 5.1%, the CTC retains rolling along the vessel wall and is ultimately captured in the small branch. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Time reversal has enabled many fundamental breakthroughs through the exquisite control over the complex systems. More recently, time reversal is predicted to be capable of enhancing the quantum sensing in unprecedented ways. Here, we report the experimental demonstration of time reversal based on a unitary and orthogonal squeezing interaction in an optical domain. Two cascaded degenerate optical parametric amplifiers are used to judiciously achieve a time reversal protocol. Finally, the concept of high-fidelity time reversal is demonstrated in the optical domain, offering remarkable opportunities for investigating many-body simulation and achieving quantum-enhanced sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the primary grain crop in China, wheat holds a significant position in the country's agricultural production, circulation, consumption, and various other aspects. However, the presence of imperfect grains has greatly impacted wheat quality and, subsequently, food security. In order to detect perfect wheat grains and six types of imperfect grains, a method for the fast and non-destructive identification of imperfect wheat grains using hyperspectral images was proposed. The main contents and results are as follows: (1) We collected wheat grain hyperspectral data. Seven types of wheat grain samples, each containing 300 grains, were prepared to construct a hyperspectral imaging system for imperfect wheat grains, and visible near-infrared hyperspectral data from 2100 wheat grains were collected. The Savitzky–Golay algorithm was used to analyze the hyperspectral images of wheat grains, selecting 261 dimensional effective hyperspectral datapoints within the range of 420.61–980.43 nm. (2) The Successive Projections Algorithm was used to reduce the dimensions of the 261 dimensional hyperspectral datapoints, selecting 33 dimensional hyperspectral datapoints. Principal Component Analysis was used to extract the optimal spectral wavelengths, specifically selecting hyperspectral images at 647.57 nm, 591.78 nm, and 568.36 nm to establish the dataset. (3) Particle Swarm Optimization was used to optimize the Support Vector Machines model, Convolutional Neural Network model, and MobileNet V2 model, which were established to recognize seven types of wheat grains. The comprehensive recognition rates were 93.71%, 95.14%, and 97.71%, respectively. The results indicate that a larger model with more parameters may not necessarily yield better performance. The research shows that the MobileNet V2 network model exhibits superior recognition efficiency, and the integration of hyperspectral image technology with the classification model can accurately identify imperfect wheat grains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a mesoporous TiO2 (mTiO2) based inorganic molecularly imprinted magnetic photocatalyst was prepared for the selective adsorption and photodegradation of residual antibiotics in water. Direct molecularly imprinted TiO2 shells were coated on nano-Fe3O4 (Fe3O4@TiO2) through a sol–gel imprinting technique using norfloxacin (NOR) as a template, then the amorphous imprinted TiO2 shells were transformed into mesoporous crystalline anatase (Fe3O4@mTiO2) by a microwave-assisted hydrothermal method, and Ag NPs were simultaneously in situ reduced on the surface (Fe3O4@mTiO2@Ag) to enhance the photodegradation performance. The as-prepared inorganic molecularly imprinted Fe3O4@mTiO2@Ag (MIFTA) nanocomposites showed excellent specificity for the target molecule NOR, and the adsorption capacity was as high as 135.7 μg mg−1, which was 1.4 to 2.3 times higher than that of other fluoroquinolone antibiotics. The photodegradation rate of MIFTA for NOR was 0.0129 min−1, which was about 3.1 times faster than that of non-imprinted Fe3O4@mTiO2@Ag (NIFTA). In addition, the used MIFTA nanocomposites can be easily recycled by magnetic separation and subsequent water elution. These results indicate that prepared MIFTA nanocomposites were expected to provide an efficient, environment friendly, and low-cost approach for the selective removal of residual antibiotics in water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonlocal nonlinear Schrödinger equations are among the important models of nonlocal integrable systems. This paper aims to present a general formula for arbitrary-order breather solutions to multi-component nonlocal nonlinear Schrödinger equations by using the Hirota bilinear method. In particular, abundant wave solutions of two- and three-component nonlocal nonlinear Schrödinger equations, including periodic and mixed-wave solutions, are obtained by taking appropriate values for the involved parameters in the general solution formula. Moreover, diverse wave structures of the resulting breather and periodic wave solutions with different parameters are discussed in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study aims to investigate the changing epidemiology and antimicrobial susceptibility of bacteria isolated from cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the Shandong region. Methodology: We conducted a retrospective analysis of bacterial distribution and resistance patterns in CSF samples, utilizing data from the SPARSS network and analyzed with WHONET 5.6 software. Results: A total of 3968 pathogenic bacterial strains were isolated, consisting of 70.6% Gram-positive bacteria, 27.2% Gram-negative bacteria, and 0.2% fungi. The six most commonly detected bacteria were coagulase-negative staphylococcus, Acinetobacter baumannii, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, and staphylococcus aureus. Analysis revealed gender and seasonal variations in the distribution of CSF pathogens, with a higher incidence observed in males and during autumn compared to other seasons. The susceptibility profiles of these bacterial species varied significantly, with many exhibiting multidrug resistances. A. baumannii showed a high resistance rate to cephalosporins and carbapenems but was sensitive to tigecycline and polymyxins. For treating multidrug-resistant A. baumannii infections, polymyxin-based combinations with tigecycline or sulbactam are recommended for adults, while tigecycline combined with meropenem is suggested for children. Enterobacteriaceae species were generally sensitive to carbapenems, such as meropenem and other carbapenems that can penetrate the blood-brain barrier can be recommended. Linezolid and vancomycin are the first choice for treating common gram-positive bacterial infections. Conclusions: The high resistance rates observed among common CSF isolates and their varied distributions across different demographics highlight the necessity for customized treatment strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Methods Results Conclusion This study aimed to investigate the influential factors of adherence to inhalation drug therapy (IDT) in patients with stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).A total of 243 patients with stable COPD who visited the chronic disease clinic of the respiratory department of our hospital between April 2022 and October 2022 were selected as participants using the convenience sampling method. Relevant information about all participants was collected by questionnaire for investigation, including basic information, clinical characteristics, inhaled drug names, situational awareness, dose and frequency.Univariate analysis revealed positive correlations between the following factors: (1) the total score of drug adherence and the total scores of the COPD knowledge questionnaire (COPD‐Q), social support, subjective support, objective support and support utilisation, (2) the total score of dosage adherence and the total scores of COPD‐Q, objective support and support utilisation and (3) the total score of technical standardisation and the total scores of social support, subjective support and objective support (p < 0.05). Multifactorial analysis showed that COPD health literacy, number of acute exacerbations in the past year and social support factors collectively accounted for 37.4% of the variable of patient adherence to IDT, as did COPD health literacy, modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) grading, duration of COPD, utilisation of support and marital status collectively account for 47.4% of the variable of patient dosage adherence. The goodness‐of‐fit of age, mMRC grading, social support, mode of residence, number of acute exacerbations in the past year and literacy to the patients' inhalation technical standardisation in the model was 47.4%.Dose adherence was predominantly influenced by COPD health literacy, mMRC grading, duration of COPD, utilisation of support and marital status. Inhalation technical standardisation was substantially limited by age, mMRC grading, social support, mode of residence, number of acute exacerbations in the past year and literacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mentalizing enables individuals to understand others, thereby playing an important role in social interactions. Interpersonal competence reflects the ability to cultivate close relationships with others. This study utilized resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging to further explore the relationship between mentalizing and interpersonal competence. We assessed the correlation between participants' interpersonal competence and their functional connectivity values within the mentalizing network. The results revealed significant positive correlations between Interpersonal Competence Questionnaire scores and functional connectivity values, particularly in connections involving the right temporoparietal junction with the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex, the precuneus, and the left temporoparietal junction. These findings highlight the collaborative effect of the mentalizing network and provide empirical evidence for the significant role of mentalizing in interpersonal interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To establish a simple model for arteriosclerosis (AS) screening to provide a viable tool for the timely identification of AS risk among residents aged 40-65 years. Methods Data were obtained from the Sleep and Chronic Diseases Program in Fuquan City. The original dataset was divided into a training subset and a validation subset (80%: 20%). LASSO and logistic regression models were used to screen variables, perform multivariate regression analyses. Internal validation was performed using the Bootstrap method. Nomogram Plot was constructed, and risk score thresholds were determined based on ROC curves to classify high-risk populations. Results RS Model was established to include age, gender, napping, sleep efficiency, sleep disorders, hypertension and diabetes, with AUC = 74.80% and a model risk score threshold = 84.20. PHC Model was established to include age, gender, napping, sleep efficiency, systolic blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, and pulse variables, with AUC = 82.80% and a risk score threshold of 78.00. Decision curves showed that both models performed well in terms of calibration and actual benefits for health management. Conclusion The two AS screening models exhibit acceptable accuracy and differentiation. Therefore, it can be applied in residents' self-health management and in primary care organizations' screening work in a large scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the peer and economic effects of corporate poverty alleviation behavior. Using the data of A-share non-financial listed corporates in Shanghai and Shenzhen of China from 2016 to 2020, the empirical analysis of this study finds that: corporate poverty alleviation behavior has significant peer effects; the guidance of local poverty alleviation policies weakens the peer effects of corporate poverty alleviation behavior; compared to private enterprises, the poverty alleviation behavior of the peer firms has a more significant impact on state-owned enterprises; and corporate poverty alleviation behavior can result in the backflow of economic benefits and achieve the organic unity of economic and social benefits. The purpose of this paper is to explore the peer effects of corporate poverty alleviation behaviors through empirical analysis using available public data. The results of the study not only increase the motivation of corporate to participate in poverty alleviation from a peer effects perspective, but also reveal key factors for sustaining corporate poverty alleviation behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Farmers' entrepreneurship is essential in developing the countryside and improving farmers' income. Also, with the arrival of the digital economy, rural formal finance (FF), which was brought about by digital inclusion finance (DIF), promoted entrepreneurship among the farmers. Based on data analytics from 2021 to 2023 in China, this paper empirically performs the quantitative analysis of the effect of DIF on farmers' entrepreneurship decisions (FED). Further, it addresses the role of FF as an alternative for informal finance (IF) brought about by the development of DIF in the process of FED from a social network (SN) perspective using the supervised learning-based regression. The results show that DIF can significantly promote farmers' entrepreneurship (FE), especially in self-employed off-farm entrepreneurship. DIF has a positive effect on FE with low levels of education and weak social networks, suggesting that DIF has a truly "inclusive" role to play. Further mechanistic studies have found that DIF, by FF, compensates for the fact that farmers used to rely mainly on SN for financing from IF channels, increasing their financial accessibility, reducing their borrowing costs, and thus promoting their entrepreneurship. Our results from the estimation applied to the supervised learning algorithm considering the instrument variable provide scientific implications for promoting DIF matched with the rural credit system's perfection to improve farmers' production and operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study evaluated the effects of high moisture ear corn (HMEC) on production performance, milk fatty acid composition, serum antioxidant status, and immunity in primiparous dairy cows. Methods: A total of 45 healthy primiparous Holstein cows (36.50±4.30 kg of milk/d, 201±9.00 lactating days in milk) were sorted into 3 groups: control group (CG, n = 15); 50% HMEC (replacing 50% steam-flaked corn with HMEC, n = 15); and 100% HMEC (replacing steam-flaked corn with HMEC, n = 15) on an equal dry matter (DM) basis. The study consisted of adaptation period of 14 days, followed by a formal period of 60 days. Feed intake and milk yield were recorded daily. Milk and blood samples were collected on 1, 30, and 60 d of the experimental period. Results: The 50% HMEC group and 100% HMEC group significantly increased (p<0.05) milk yield and DM intake in dairy cows compared to the control group (CG). The 100% HMEC group showed an increase (p<0.05) in 4% fat-corrected milk (4% FCM). Both the 50% HMEC group and 100% HMEC group exhibited significant decreases (p<0.05) in the content of C10:0, C12:0, and C14:0 fatty acids, along with a significant increase (p<0.05) in cis-9C18:1 content. The saturated fatty acid content was significantly lower (p<0.05) in the 50% HMEC and 100% HMEC groups than that of CG. Conversely, the monounsaturated fatty acid content was higher (p<0.05) in the 50% HMEC and 100% HMEC groups than that in CG. Notably, the 100% HMEC group significantly increased (p<0.05) the serum superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase content, while also decreasing the serum malondialdehyde content (p<0.05). Moreover, the 100% HMEC group significantly increased (p<0.05) the content of immunoglobulin G (IgG) and IgM. Conclusion: High moisture ear corn could improve production performance and milk fatty acid levels and enhance immunity and antioxidant capacity in dairy cows. These results lay the foundation for the wider application of HMEC in ruminant animal diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective thermal transport across solid-solid interfaces, essential in thermal interface materials (TIMs), necessitates both optimal thixotropy and high thermal conductivity. The role of filler surface modification, a fundamental aspect of TIM fabrication, in influencing these properties is not fully understood. This study employs the use of a silane coupling agent (SCA) to modify alumina, integrating experimental approaches with molecular dynamics simulations, to elucidate the interface effects on thixotropy and thermal conductivity in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-based TIMs. Our findings reveal that varying SCAs modify both interface binding energy and transition layer thickness. The interface binding energy restricts macromolecular segmental relaxation near the interface, hindering desirable thixotropy and bond line thickness. Conversely, the transition layer thickness at the interface positively influences thermal conductivity, facilitating phonon transport between the polymer and filler. Consequently, selecting an optimal SCA enables a balance between traditionally conflicting goals of high thermal conductivity and minimal bond line thickness, achieving an impressively low interface thermal resistance of just 2.45–4.29 K·mm2·W−1 at 40 psi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article, published in Chemistry of Natural Compounds, explores the chemical composition of compounds found in the rhizomes of Hedychium coronarium, a plant traditionally used for medicinal purposes. The study reveals that the plant contains bioactive compounds such as terpenoids, flavonoids, steroids, and simple aromatics. The researchers used extraction and purification techniques to isolate and characterize these compounds, providing detailed information about their chemical structures. Some of the identified compounds, including Kaempferol-3,7,4'-O-trimethylether and Pinocembrin, were discovered in H. coronarium for the first time. The research was conducted in Yunnan, China, with support from the Key Laboratory and Science and Technology Innovation Team of Higher Education. [Extracted from the article]

Previous studies have shown that scutellarin inhibits the excessive activation of microglia, reduces neuronal apoptosis, and exerts neuroprotective effects. However, whether scutellarin regulates activated microglia-mediated neuronal apoptosis and its mechanisms remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether scutellarin can attenuate PC12 cell apoptosis induced by activated microglia via the JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway. Microglia were cultured in oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD) medium, which acted as a conditioning medium (CM) to activate PC12 cells, to investigate the expression of apoptosis and JAK2/STAT3 signalling-related proteins. We observed that PC12 cells apoptosis in CM was significantly increased, the expression and fluorescence intensity of the pro-apoptotic protein Bax and apoptosis-related protein cleaved caspase-3 were increased, and expression of the anti-apoptotic protein B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) was decreased. Phosphorylation levels and fluorescence intensity of the JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway-related proteins JAK2 and STAT3 decreased. After treatment with scutellarin, PC12 cells apoptosis as well as cleaved caspase-3 and Bax protein expression and fluorescence intensity decreased. The expression and fluorescence intensity of Bcl-2, phosphorylated JAK2, and STAT3 increased. AG490, a specific inhibitor of the JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway, was used. Our findings suggest that AG490 attenuates the effects of scutellarin. Our study revealed that scutellarin inhibited OGD-activated microglia-mediated PC12 cells apoptosis which was regulated via the JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To explore the views and experiences of formal caregivers caring for older inpatients with physical disabilities. Methods: It was a qualitative phenomenological study. Using purposive sampling, twelve formal caregivers were chosen in a tertiary comprehensive hospital in Hangzhou, China. Semi-structured, face-to-face interviews were conducted, guided by open-ended questions that focused on gaining rich insights into participants' views and experiences. Coding reliability thematic analysis was used to guide data analysis and categorize, based on Lazarus and Folkman's theory of transactional coping. Results: Four themes emerged from the data analysis: (1) Caregiving Threats. (2) motivations. (3) Responsibility Management. (4) Fear. Conclusion: Despite facing significant pressure at work, formal caregivers of elderly inpatients with physical disabilities possess the drive and various coping strategies to excel in their role. Identifying caregivers' experiences of care can be helpful in improving resilience to stress and maintaining stability in formal caregivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interactions between ether naphthotube and a series of dication guests in organic solution were investigated. It was found that ether naphthotube formed stable host‐guest complexes selectively with these guests in a 1 : 1 stoichiometric ratio with association constants ranging from 102 to 106 M−1, which were confirmed by 1H‐NMR spectra and ITC experiments. The host‐guest interactions are driven by enthalpy change as the entropic factors are unfavorable. Positive correlations between ΔH and ΔS have been observed in the host‐guest complexes. Furthermore, the para‐substitution of the guests can significantly affect the binding affinities through a combination of field/inductive and resonance effects by following a linear free energy relationship. Based on the host‐guest complexes composed of ether naphthotube and organic cations, two interlocked [2]rotaxanes were prepared by cationization reaction and Huisgen cycloaddition between the cations and the stopper components. The ether naphthotube‐based host‐guest complexes are useful for creating sophisticated interlocked molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the single-layer potential theory, the Laplace equation can be converted into the problem of the first-kind boundary integral equation (BIE1st). The kernel of BIE1st is characterized by the logarithmic singularity. In this paper, we investigate the Nystrom method for solving the BIE1st. The numerical solutions possess high accuracy orders O(h³) and the combination of two kinds of Nystrom solutions has the same accuracy as the result with double grid. Furthermore, by the double power transformation, the proposed method can be used to deal with the problem on the non-smooth boundary and has the higher accuracy. The efficiency is illustrated by some examples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hospice care professionals often experience trauma patient deaths and multiple patient deaths in a short period of time (more so than other nurses). This repeated exposure to the death process and the death of patients leads to greater psychological pressure on hospice care professionals. But at present, people pay more attention to the feelings and care burden of the family members of dying patients but pay less attention to medical staff. Thus, this study aimed to develop a scale on the burden of care for hospice care providers and assess the coping capacity of hospice professionals. Raising awareness of the psychological burden of hospice professionals. Methods: Through a literature review, research group discussion, Delphi method and a pre-survey of professional coping skills among nurses, 200 hospice professionals who had received training in hospice care from pilot institutions engaged in or providing hospice care were selected for investigation. Cronbach's α coefficient and split-half reliability were used to test the internal consistency of the scale, and content validity and explore factor analysis (EFA) were used to test the construct validity of the scale. Results: Two rounds of Delphi methods were carried out, and the effective recovery rate was 100%. The expert authority coefficients of the two rounds were 0.838 and 0.833, respectively. The Kendall's W coefficient of experts in the first round was 0.121 ~ 0.200 (P < 0.05), and the Kendall's W coefficient of the second round was 0.115–0.136 (P < 0.05), indicating a good level of expert coordination. The final survey scale for the care burden of hospice professionals included four dimensions—working environment (9 items), professional roles (8 items), clinical nursing (9 items) and psychological burden (7 items)—with a total of 33 items. The total Cronbach's α coefficient of the scale was 0.963, and the Cronbach's α coefficients of the working environment, professional roles, clinical nursing and psychological burden dimensions were 0.920, 0.889, 0.936 and 0.910, respectively. The total split-half reliability of the scale was 0.927, and the split-half reliability of each dimension was 0.846, 0.817, 0.891, and 0.832. The content validity of the scale items ranged from 0.90 to 1.00. Exploratory factor analysis revealed 5 common factors, with a total cumulative contribution rate of 68.878%. The common degree of each item in the scale was > 0.4, and the factor loading of each item was also > 0.4. Conclusion: The scale is an open-access, short, easy-to-administer scale. And which for assessing hospice care burden among hospice professionals developed in this study demonstrated strong reliability and validity. This tool can serve as a dependable instrument for evaluating the burden of hospice care for terminally ill patients by professionals in the hospice setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This project mainly focuses on the study of word guessing games, analyzing factors such as the popularity of the game, the playability of the game itself, the difficulty of the game itself, and the game effects of the participants. Firstly, analyze the useful attributes from the words and whether these attributes have an impact on the proportion of game score results reported on that day. Secondly, clustering models are used to automatically partition words, and the difficulty is divided into two levels: simple and difficult. The machine learning xgboost model is used to evaluate the model through confusion matrix, accuracy, recall, and F1 value. The study found that the total number of reports is consistent with the trend of the number of reports in hardcore mode. The popularity rapidly increased in the early stage and gradually decreased in the later stage, which means that the loyalty of players has basically been washed away, and the remaining are mostly people with great potential to continue playing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LVGLS) has been recommended by current guidelines for diagnosing anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity. However, little is known about the early changes in left atrial (LA) morphology and function in this population. Our study aimed to evaluate the potential usefulness of LA indices and their incremental value to LVGLS with three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE) in the early detection of subclinical cardiotoxicity in patients with lymphoma receiving anthracycline. Methods: A total of 80 patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma who received six cycles of anthracycline-based treatment were enrolled. Echocardiography was performed at baseline (T0), after four cycles (T1), and after the completion of six cycles of chemotherapy (T2). Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), LVGLS, LA volumes, LA emptying fraction (LAEF), LA active emptying fraction (LAAEF), and LA reservoir longitudinal strain (LASr) were quantified with 3DE. Left atrioventricular global longitudinal strain (LAVGLS) was calculated as the sum of peak LASr and the absolute value of peak LVGLS (LAVGLS=LASr+|LVGLS|). LV cardiotoxicity was defined as a new LVEF reduction by ≥10 percentage points to an LVEF of ≤50%. Results: Fourteen (17.5%) patients developed LV cardiotoxicity at T2. LA volumes, LAEF, and LAAEF remained stable over time. Impairment of LASr (28.35 ± 5.03 vs. 25.04 ± 4.10, p < .001), LVGLS (-22.77 ± 2.45 vs. -20.44 ± 2.62, p < .001), and LAVGLS (51.12 ± 5.63 vs. 45.61 ± 5.22, p < .001) was observed by the end of the fourth cycle of chemotherapy (T1). Statistically significant declines in LVEF (61.30 ± 4.73 vs. 57.08±5.83, p<.001) were only observed at T2. The relative decrease in LASr (ΔLASr), LVGLS (ΔLVGLS), and LAVGLS (ΔLAVGLS) from T0 to T1 were predictors of LV cardiotoxicity. A ΔLASr of >19.75% (sensitivity, 71.4%; specificity, 87.9%; area under the curve (AUC), .842; p < .001), a ΔLVGLS of >13.19% (sensitivity, 78.6%; specificity, 74.2%; AUC, .763; p < .001), and a ΔLAVGLS of >16.80% (sensitivity, 78.6%; specificity, 93.9%; AUC, .905; p<.001) predicted subsequent LV cardiotoxicity at T2, with the AUC of ΔLAVGLS significantly larger than that of ΔLVGLS (.905 vs. .763, p = .027). Compared to ΔLVGLS, ΔLAVGLS showed improved specificity (93.9% vs. 74.2%, p = .002) and maintained sensitivity in predicting LV cardiotoxicity. Conclusions: LASr could predict anthracycline-induced LV cardiotoxicity with excellent diagnostic performance. Incorporating LASr into LVGLS (LAVGLS) led to a significantly improved specificity and maintained sensitivity in predicting LV cardiotoxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As lithium‐ion batteries are the main power source of new energy vehicles, making accurate predictions of unknown State of Charge (SOC) during vehicle operation for vehicle data monitoring is vital to the advancement of intelligent new energy vehicles. In this manuscript, an expression tree‐based genetic programming regression model (ETGPR) is proposed to estimate the real‐time SOC of lithium‐ion batteries. The proposed model mainly adopts the symbolic regression technique. In addition to the current–voltage curves being fed into the model, an additional approach is designed to ensure real‐time model predictions in dynamic situations, which includes the previous moment's power in the input parameters. Different seed hyperparameters in the model are set, and the model automatically performs evolutionary calculations. Subsequently, each parameter of the model is optimally adjusted to obtain a set of regression expressions that accurately reflect the relationship between the SOC and each parameter after a specified number of iterations. Finally, the generated expression is proven to perform better in terms of its ability to capture the nonlinear relationship between SOC and battery variables. Also, the model demonstrates excellent robustness in the presence of notable noise from input‐independent features compared to other models, a root mean square error (RMSE) of less than 0.3% and a mean absolute error (MAE) of less than 0.2% are achieved. Furthermore, the potential of the model's implement‐ability under variable temperature and real driving data conditions is verified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The movement speed of Typhoon In-Fa (2021) was notably slow, at 10 km h-1 or less, for over 20 hours following its landfall in Zhejiang, China, in contrast to other typhoons that have made landfall. This study examines the factors contributing to the slow movement of Typhoon In-Fa, including the steering flow, diabatic heating, vertical wind shear (VWS), and surface synoptic situation, by comparing it with Typhoons Yagi (2018) and Rumbia (2018) which followed similar tracks. The findings reveal that the movement speed of Typhoons Yagi and Rumbia is most closely associated with their respective 500 hPa environmental winds, with a steering flow of 10-12 m s-1. In contrast, Typhoon In-Fa's movement speed is most strongly correlated with the 850 hPa environmental wind field, with a steering flow speed of only 2 m s-1. Furthermore, as Typhoon In-Fa moves northwest after landfall, its intensity is slightly greater than that of Typhoons Yagi and Rumbia, and the pressure gradient in front of Typhoon In-Fa is notably smaller, leading to its slow movement. Additionally, the precipitation distribution of Typhoon In-Fa differs from that of the other two typhoons, resulting in a weak asymmetry of wavenumber-1 diabatic heating, which indirectly affects its movement speed. Further analysis indicates that VWS can alter the typhoon's structure, weaken its intensity, and ultimately impact its movement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: It is of great significance to develop and utilize plant-derived compounds for the sustainable control of grasshopper. This study assessed the adverse effects of rutin and quercetin on grasshopper, as well as the insect's physiological response to these two plant-derived compounds. Rutin and quercetin all exhibited toxic effects on grasshopper, with quercetin showing a stronger toxicity, which indicated that they—especially quercetin—have the potential to be developed as biopesticides to control the grasshopper. Insect-resistant substances from plants are important natural resources that human beings can potentially develop and use to control pests. In this study, we explored the adverse effects of rutin and quercetin on grasshopper (Calliptamus abbreviatus), as well as the insect's physiological response to these substances in laboratory and field experiments. These two plant compounds exhibited toxic effects on C. abbreviatus, with quercetin showing a stronger toxicity, indicated by a lower survival, slower development, and higher induced gene expression and activities of UDP-glucuronosyltransferase, cytochrome P450s, superoxide dismutase, peroxidase and catalase, compared to rutin. These compounds, especially quercetin, have the potential to be developed as biopesticides to control grasshoppers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Economic development, energy sustainability, and pollution are issues related to human survival, and it is crucial to properly address the relationships between them. This article examines the nexus between natural resources (NRs), technological innovation, economic growth (EG), and environmental sustainability in China by applying a fixed effect model, random effect model, instrumental variable estimation, using panel data from 30 Chinese provinces as the basis of investigation. (1) There is a “resource curse” in the role of NRs in economic development; the accumulation of human capital, the degree of marketization and the degree of urbanization can mitigate the phenomenon of “resource curse”. (2) The phenomenon of “resource curse” is mainly caused by the displacement effect of technological innovation. (3) Natural resource exploitation and economic development inhibit environmental sustainability, while technological innovation promotes environmental sustainability. Based on the research conclusions, policy insights are proposed to increase the degree of marketization, strengthen human capital accumulation, increase scientific and technological investment, and increase the supply of renewable energy, with a view to providing assistance in promoting the harmonious development of human beings and nature as well as the economic development of various regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taxonomic notes on the Talaus species from China are provided. Two new species, T. yuyang Yao & Liu, sp. nov. and T. zhangjiangkou Yao & Liu, sp. nov. are described and illustrated, and a further three species are redescribed based on their genitalic characters: T. dulongjiang Tang, Yin, Ubick & Peng, 2008, T. niger Tang, Yin, Ubick & Peng, 2008, and T. sulcus Tang & Li, 2010. The species T. xiphosus Zhu & Ono, 2007 is considered a junior synonym of T. triangulifer Simon, 1886 based on an examination of many recently collected female and male specimens from Guangxi Province, China. Diagnoses, detailed illustrations and a map of distributional records of the six treated species of Talaus in China are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To analyze the efficacy of single-channel percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD) and conventional open surgery in the treatment of lumbar disc herniation (LDH). Methods: This is a retrospective study. A total of 66 patients with LDH admitted to Tianjin Medical University from June 2017 to June 2018 were divided into two groups: the observation group (single-channel PELD) and the control group (posterior lumbar interbody fusion), with 33 cases in each group. The two groups were compared in terms of visual analogue scale(VAS), oswestry disability index (ODI), Japanese Orthopaedic Association Score(JOA), perioperative indicators, clinical efficacy, postoperative complications, changes in inflammatory factors and serum T lymphocyte subsets. Results: The operation time, incision length, intraoperative blood loss, time in bed, hospital stay in the observation group were all lower than those in the control group. At 7d after treatment, the improvement of ODI, VAS and JOA in the observation group were better than that in the control group. At the last follow-up, there was no significant difference in Cobb angle and lumbar lordosis angle between the two groups. The levels of serum IL-1, IL-6 and TNF-α in the observation group were lower than those in the control group. The degree of reduction of serum CD3+ and CD4+ in the observation group were higher than those in the control group. And the level of elevation of CD8+ in the observation group was lower than that in the control group. Moreover, there was no significant difference in CD4+/ CD8+ level between the two groups. The excellent rate of surgical results in the observation group was higher than that in the control group. Complications occurred in both groups, with no significant difference between the two groups. Conclusions: Single-channel PELD can achieve superior clinical efficacy over conventional open surgery in the treatment of LDH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

δβ-thalassemia is a rare type of thalassemia characterized by increased Hb F levels, including mainly Chinese Gγ(Aγδβ)0-thalassemia, Yunnanese Gγ(Aγδβ)0-thalassemia, Cantonese Gγ(Aγδβ)0-thalassemia in China. Due to the low rate of δβ-thalassemia carriers, there are few reports of δβ-thalassemia combined with β-thalassemia causing β-thalassemia major. Herein, we described the combination of Chinese Gγ(Aγδβ)0-thalassemia and β-thalassemia leading to β-thalassemia major in a Chinese patient. Hemoglobin analysis was performed by capillary electrophoresis (CE). Routine genetic analysis was carried out by gap-polymerase chain reaction (Gap-PCR) and PCR and reverse dot blot (PCR-RDB). Multiple ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) was used to detect the large deletion, and Gap-PCR confirmed the deletion. A CE result showed an elevated Hb F level of 98.7% and 11.7% in the proband and her mother, but the proband was diagnosed with βCD17M/βCD17M using routine genetic analysis. However, her father was heterozygous for CD17 in β-globin, and her mother was detected as SEA heterozygous. The further analysis presented that the proband had actually missed the diagnosis of Chinese Gγ(Aγδβ)0-thalassemia by MLPA and PCR-RDB. Finally, the genotype of the proband was corrected from βCD17M/βCD17M to βCD17M/βGγ(Aγδβ)0. This is the first report of Chinese Gγ(Aγδβ)0-thalassemia combined with β-thalassemia resulting in β-thalassemia major in China. Screening for δβ-thalassemia by Hb analysis could be an effective method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Loneliness has a significant impact on the physical and psychological well-being of patients with cancer. However, the specific factors contributing to loneliness among patients with cancer within the context of Chinese culture remain poorly understood. Objective: The objective of this study was to identify the factors associated with loneliness among patients with cancer in China. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using convenience sampling, involving a sample of 205 patients with cancer from a tertiary hospital in Guangzhou, China. Participants completed several validated questionnaires, including the Cancer Loneliness Scale (CLS), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Cancer-Related Negative Social Expectations Scale (C-rNSES), and Social Support Rating Scale (SSRS). Multiple linear stepwise regression analysis was employed to explore the relationships between loneliness and psychosocial factors. Results: The median score for loneliness among patients with cancer was 13, with an interquartile range of 8. The multiple linear stepwise regression analysis revealed that negative social expectations, social support, and depression were significantly associated with loneliness in this population. Collectively, these factors accounted for 50.1% (R 2 =.501) of the variance in loneliness. Conclusions: The findings of this study highlight the importance of addressing negative social expectations and depression and improving social support to prevent or reduce loneliness among patients with cancer. Health care providers should consider these factors when developing interventions aimed at preventing or alleviating loneliness in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to explore whether the development of competitive computer gaming (eSports) industries is sustained in China. In doing so, we apply the Generalized Supremum Augmented Dickey-Fuller (GSADF) method to investigate when the bubbles originated and crashed in the Chinese eSports market from 2014 to 2021. Utilizing the data of the Chinese Electronic Sports Thematic Index (CESI), the empirical outcomes show that the Chinese eSports industry may deviate from its market value and that the industry witnesses bubble behaviors. The latent reasons might be attributed to government policies, economic growth, stock market crises, and venture capital investments. Therefore, to promote the stabilized and sustained development of the eSports industry in China, regulators and authorities should pay attention to the evolution of bubbles. Moreover, maintaining policy consistency and continuity may be beneficial in stabilizing investors' expectations and reducing speculative investment behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new species of the genus Neoribates, N. (Neoribates) conflatussp. nov. and N. (N.) fusiformissp. nov., are proposed and described based on adult material collected from central China, and N. (N.) similis Fujikawa, 2007 is reported in China for the first time. A key to the known members of Neoribates from China is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is a chronic metabolism disorder with a symptom as pancreatic β-cell dysfunction. In this study, the bioinformatics analysis identified the key regulators (PDX1 and miR-765) in T2DM. By qRT-PCR and western blotting, miR-765 with high expression and PDX1 with low expression were observed in blood samples from T2DM patients and the T2DM cell model. Together with GSIS assay, CCK-8, TUNEL assay, glycolysis assay, and mitochondrial respiration assay, miR-765 overexpression impaired insulin secretion cell viability, glycolysis, and mitochondrial respiration, while enhanced cell apoptosis in pancreatic β-cell. The Luciferase reporter, RIP, and RNA pull-down assays showed that PDX1 was the target gene of miR-765 in pancreatic β-cell. Besides, the negative effect of miR-765 on pancreatic β-cell could be overturned by PDX1 overexpression. In conclusion, we confirmed that miR-765 could cause a detrimental effect on pancreatic β-cell survival and function by targeting PDX1, which might provide new insight for T2DM therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Attenuating local inflammation of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) was crucial. Corticosteroids were generally exploited to ameliorate the postoperative state of CRSwNP. This study aims to verify the efficacy of steroid-eluting stents on the local inflammation of CRSwNP following ESS. Methods: 57 CRSwNP were enrolled from September 2021 to April 2022. 30 were with stents, and 27 were without stents after ESS. Eosinophilic cationic protein (ECP), myeloperoxidase (MPO), eosinophil, and neutrophil levels in nasal secretions, as well as visual analog scale (VAS) and modified perioperative sinus endoscopy (POSE) scores, were assessed preoperatively and after 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks. Results: All subjects of CRSwNP exhibited reduced results of eosinophil levels, neutrophil levels, nasal obstruction, nasal discharge, loss of smell, and total VAS scores after 12 weeks compared to the preoperative ones (p < 0.05). Compared with control subjects, CRSwNP with stents acquired lower levels of ECP, MPO, loss of smell, total VAS, and POSE scores at four follow-up visits, as well as reduced eosinophil and neutrophil levels in nasal secretions after 12 weeks (p < 0.05). Correlation analysis revealed that postoperative ECP and MPO levels of CRSwNP in nasal secretions correlated strongly with eosinophil and neutrophil levels, respectively, as well as POSE scores (r > 0.6). Conclusion: These findings indicated that steroid-eluting stents might be an acclaimed option for CRSwNP in alleviating local inflammation to acquire a superior state after ESS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a feasible scheme to implement a planar and tunable quantum state transfer (QST) via topologically protected zero-energy mode in a splicing Y-junction Su–Schrieffer–Heeger (SSH) chain. The introduction of the elaborate nearest-neighbor (NN) hopping enables one to generate a topological interface at the central site of the Y-junction. By modulating the NN hopping adiabatically in the chain, the quantum state initially prepared at the central site can be simultaneously transferred to the three endpoints of the Y-junction with the equal/unequal probabilities. The planar distribution of QST is expected to realize a quantum router, whose function is to make the quantum information on the central site (input port) appear equally/unequally at the three endpoints (output ports) with different directions. Moreover, the numerical simulations demonstrate that the scheme possesses the robustness on the fluctuations of the NN hopping and the on-site potential in the system. Furthermore, we show that the number of the output ports with different directions can be flexibly increased in an extended X-junction SSH chain, and the experimental feasibility for implementing special QST in a superconducting qubit-resonator system is briefly discussed. Our work extends the space distribution of QST from linear distribution to planar distribution and promotes the construction of large-scale quantum networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The absolute stereochemistry of the α-amino and α-hydroxyphosphonates is determined using a chiroptical sensor. The induced helicity of the host–guest complex is correlated to the chirality of the guest molecule via a simple binding model. The relative size of the substituents dictates the predominant helical population, leading to an easy circular dichroic readout. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rechargeable lithium−oxygen (Li−O2) batteries with high theoretical energy density are considered as promising candidates for portable electronic devices and electric vehicles, whereas their commercial application is hindered due to poor cyclic stability caused by the sluggish kinetics and cathode passivation. Herein, the intrinsic stress originated from the growth and decomposition of the discharge product (lithium peroxide, Li2O2) is employed as a microscopic pressure resource to induce the built‐in electric field, further improving the reaction kinetics and interfacial Lithium ion (Li+) transport during cycling. Piezopotential caused by the intrinsic stress‐strain of solid Li2O2 is capable of providing the driving force for the separation and transport of carriers, enhancing the Li+ transfer, and thus improving the redox reaction kinetics of Li−O2 batteries. Combined with a variety of in situ characterizations, the catalytic mechanism of barium titanate (BTO), a typical piezoelectric material, was systematically investigated, and the effect of stress‐strain transformation on the electrochemical reaction kinetics and Li+ interface transport for the Li−O2 batteries is clearly established. The findings provide deep insight into the surface coupling strategy between intrinsic stress and electric fields to regulate the electrochemical reaction kinetics behavior and enhance the interfacial Li+ transport for battery system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rechargeable lithium−oxygen (Li−O2) batteries with high theoretical energy density are considered as promising candidates for portable electronic devices and electric vehicles, whereas their commercial application is hindered due to poor cyclic stability caused by the sluggish kinetics and cathode passivation. Herein, the intrinsic stress originated from the growth and decomposition of the discharge product (lithium peroxide, Li2O2) is employed as a microscopic pressure resource to induce the built‐in electric field, further improving the reaction kinetics and interfacial Lithium ion (Li+) transport during cycling. Piezopotential caused by the intrinsic stress‐strain of solid Li2O2 is capable of providing the driving force for the separation and transport of carriers, enhancing the Li+ transfer, and thus improving the redox reaction kinetics of Li−O2 batteries. Combined with a variety of in situ characterizations, the catalytic mechanism of barium titanate (BTO), a typical piezoelectric material, was systematically investigated, and the effect of stress‐strain transformation on the electrochemical reaction kinetics and Li+ interface transport for the Li−O2 batteries is clearly established. The findings provide deep insight into the surface coupling strategy between intrinsic stress and electric fields to regulate the electrochemical reaction kinetics behavior and enhance the interfacial Li+ transport for battery system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geopolymer recycled brick aggregate concrete (GRC), a new type of environmentally friendly material, can reduce carbon dioxide emissions and effectively utilise construction waste. To study its basic compressive performance and stress–strain relationship, cubes and prisms of GRC and ordinary recycled brick aggregate concrete (ORC) under five recycled brick aggregate (RBA) replacement ratios (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100%) were tested compressively. The failure mode, working performance, compressive strength, elastic modulus, Poisson's ratio and other indexes as well as the full stress–strain curves were obtained. The test results show that with the increase of RBA replacement ratio, the compressive strength and modulus of elasticity of GRC and ORC decrease, and the slump, strain corresponding to peak stress, transverse deformation coefficient and Poisson's ratio increase. Compared with ORC, under the same water-to-binder ratio, GRC exhibits 29% to 52% smaller elastic modulus, more than 30% reduction in slump, close Poisson's ratio and steeper decline branch of compressive stress–strain curve. Moreover, the RBA replacement ratio has a greater effect on GRC. Based on the uniaxial compressive model of ordinary concrete, the compressive constitutive models suitable for GRC and ORC are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with the factor modeling and forecasting for high-dimensional time series with additive outliers. Under the assumption that the sample size n and the dimension of time series p tend to infinity together, the asymptotic properties of several robust estimators are established, including estimation errors and forecast errors. We also propose a detailed algorithm of constructing bootstrap prediction intervals for the high-dimensional time series. We show the superiority of the approach by both simulation studies and an application to the daily air quality index for the main cities in the Yangtze River Delta region of China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The marine sponge Lendenfeldia sp., collected from the Southern waters of Taiwan, was subjected to chemical composition screening, resulting in the isolation of four new 24-homoscalarane compounds, namely lendenfeldaranes R–U (1–4). The structures and relative stereochemistry of the new metabolites 1–4 were assigned based on NMR studies. The absolute configurations of compounds 1–4 were determined by comparing the calculated and experimental values of specific optical rotation. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of the isolated compounds were assayed using superoxide anion generation and elastase release assays. These assays are used to determine neutrophilic inflammatory responses of respiratory burst and degranulation. Compounds 2 and 4 inhibited superoxide anion generation by human neutrophils in response to formyl-L-methionyl-L-leucyl-L-phenylalanine/cytochalasin B (fMLP/CB) with IC50: 3.98–4.46 μM. Compounds 2 and 4 inhibited fMLP/CB-induced elastase release, with IC50 values ranging from 4.73 to 5.24 μM. These findings suggested that these new 24-homoscalarane compounds possess unique structures and potential anti-inflammatory activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a novel hemoglobin (Hb) variant found in a 34-year-old Chinese male during a routine measurement of glycated hemoglobin. The variant resulted in a P3 peak of 27.5% of the total Hb on high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a glycated hemoglobin mode. However, no abnormal Hb peaks were observed in capillary electrophoresis (CE) with 3.1% Hb A2 and 96.9% Hb A. The amino acid substitution was determined by Sanger sequencing as α20 (B1) His→Leu; the corresponding DNA mutation was identified as CAC > CTC at the first position of codon 20 of the α-chain. This is the first description of the mutation, and we have named it Hb Hebei for the region of origin of the proband. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two species assigned to Massuria Thorell, 1887 are reviewed. The female of Massuria bandian Tang & Li, 2010 is described for the first time from Jianfengling National Natural Reserve, Hainan Province, China. The species Diaea simplex Xu, Han & Li, 2008 is described as a synonym of Massuria bellula Xu, Han & Li, 2008 based on female and male specimens from Guangdong Province, China. Massuria min sp. nov. described as a new species (female, Fujian Province, China). Detailed illustrations and a distribution map are provided for these three species of Massuria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The eukaryotic cell plasma membrane contains several asymmetrically distributed phospholipids, which is maintained by the P4-ATPase flippase complex. Herein, we demonstrated the biological effects and mechanisms of asymmetrical loss in hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). Methods: An Atp8a1 knockout mouse model was employed, from which the HSC (long-term HSCs and short-term HSCs) population was analyzed to assess their abundance and function. Additionally, competitive bone marrow transplantation and 5-FU stress assays were performed. RNA sequencing was performed on Hematopoietic Stem and Progenitor Cells, and DNA damage was assayed using immunofluorescence staining and comet electrophoresis. The protein abundance for members of key signaling pathways was confirmed using western blotting. Results: Atp8a1 deletion resulted in slight hyperleukocytosis, associated with the high proliferation of HSCs and BCR/ABL1 transformed leukemia stem cells (LSCs). Atp8a1 deletion increased the repopulation capability of HSCs with a competitive advantage in reconstitution assay. HSCs without Atp8a1 were more sensitive to 5-FU-induced apoptosis. Moreover, Atp8a1 deletion prevented HSC DNA damage and facilitated DNA repair processes. Genes involved in PI3K-AKT-mTORC1, DNA repair, and AP-1 complex signaling were enriched and elevated in HSCs with Atp8a1 deletion. Furthermore, Atp8a1 deletion caused decreased PTEN protein levels, resulting in the activation of PI3K-AKT-mTORC1 signaling, further increasing the activity of JNK/AP-1 signaling and YAP1 phosphorylation. Conclusion: We identified the role of Atp8a1 on hematopoiesis and HSCs. Atp8a1 deletion resulted in the loss of phosphatidylserine asymmetry and intracellular signal transduction chaos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Small islands of safety, accompanied by clonal integration, could have important impacts on plant performance in stressful environments. Although the effects of environmental heterogeneity and clonal integration on clonal plant growth have been well studied, little attention has been paid to the impacts of islands of safety and the interaction with clonal integration on plant performance in the context of soil contamination. Methods: We conducted an experiment consisting of two soil treatments (with/without an island of safety, i.e., a patch with uncontaminated soil, located in the middle of cadmium-contaminated soil) and two stolon connection statuses (stolon between the mother ramets and their daughter ramets was either severed or kept connected) using the stoloniferous clonal plant Glechoma longituba. Results: Overall, the presence of the safe island significantly increased the number of ramets, total mass, leaf mass, and stolon mass of the daughter ramets and the whole clone. Clonal integration significantly decreased the number of ramets, total mass, leaf mass, and stolon mass of mother ramets. The presence of the island of safety enhanced total mass, leaf mass, and stolon mass of the mother ramet in the group with severed stolons and root mass and root to shoot ratio in the group with connected stolons. Conclusions: Building islands of safety can contribute to daughter ramet growth in a contaminated ecosystem, which suggests assembling smaller safe islands coupled with clonal plants with strong clonal integration may be a promising measure to vegetation restoration in heavy metal contaminated ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative dehydrogenation of propane is an attractive route for the synthesis of propylene due to its favorable thermodynamic and kinetic characteristics, however, it is challenging to realize high selectivity towards propylene. Recently, it has been discovered that boron nitride (BN) is a promising catalyst that affords superior selectivity towards propylene in oxidative dehydrogenation of propane. Summarizing the progress and unravelling the reaction mechanism of BN in oxidative dehydrogenation of propane are of great significance for the rational design of efficient catalysts in the future. Herein, in this review, the underlying reaction mechanisms of oxidative dehydrogenation of propane over BN are extracted; the developed BN catalysts are classified into pristine BN, functionalized BN, supported BN and others, and the applications of each category of BN catalysts in oxidative dehydrogenation of propane are summarized; the challenges and opportunities on oxidative dehydrogenation of propane over BN are pointed out, aiming to inspire more studies and advance this research field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the recent times, the issue of excessive carbon emission is a hot topic among the scholars and governors. In this context, it is necessary to examine the factors affecting the emissions level, particularly in emerging economy like China. Using the extended period from 1990 to 2021, this study analyzes the impact of energy efficiency, economic growth, and renewable energy along with the testing of environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) paradox. The empirical results validate the cointegration between the mentioned variables. Employing the novel non-parametric approaches, this study found the existence of the EKC hypothesis in the country as the economic growth initially increases environmental challenges, while reducing it after reaching a specific income level. On the other hand, energy efficiency and renewable energy consumption are found to be significant tools for improving environmental sustainability and reducing of carbon emissions. The robustness of the results is confirmed by the non-parametric (bootstrap quantile regression) and parametric (fully modified ordinary least square) approaches. Based on the outcomes, this study also revealed policy implications for the scholars and governors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Path planning is an important part of the navigation control system of mobile robots since it plays a decisive role in whether mobile robots can realize autonomy and intelligence. The particle swarm algorithm can effectively solve the path-planning problem of a mobile robot, but the traditional particle swarm algorithm has the problems of a too-long path, poor global search ability, and local development ability. Moreover, the existence of obstacles makes the actual environment more complex, thus putting forward more stringent requirements on the environmental adaptation ability, path-planning accuracy, and path-planning efficiency of mobile robots. In this study, an artificial potential field-based particle swarm algorithm (apfrPSO) was proposed. First, the method generates robot planning paths by adjusting the inertia weight parameter and ranking the position vector of particles (rPSO), and second, the artificial potential field method is introduced. Through comparative numerical experiments with other state-of-the-art algorithms, the results show that the algorithm proposed was very competitive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are capable of effectively repressing immune responses against tumors and orchestrating the tumor microenvironment, which can promote tumor angiogenesis and metastasis. The pathway networks used to modulate tumor-expanded MDSC accumulation and function remain unclear. This study identified microRNA-211 (miR-211), whose expression was significantly decreased by factors derived from tumors. miR-211 was assumed to be critical in modulating the accumulation and activity of MDSCs isolated from ovarian cancer (OC)-bearing mice by targeting C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP). The upregulation of miR-211 repressed MDSC proliferation, inhibited MDSC immunosuppressive functions, and increased the number of co-incubated CD4+ and CD8+ cells. Furthermore, overexpression of miR-211 led to decreased activities of the NF-κB, PI3K/Akt, and STAT3 pathways and the subsequent downregulation of matrix metalloproteinases to promote tumor cell invasion and metastasis. CHOP overexpression counteracted the effects of miR-211 elevation on these phenotypic changes. Upregulation of miR-211 also dramatically impaired the activity of MDSCs and suppressed OC tumor growth in vivo. These results indicated that the miR-211-CHOP axis in MDSCs plays an essential role in the metastasis and proliferation of tumor-expanded MDSCs and might represent a promising cancer treatment target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Hamiltonian of a conventional quantum system is Hermitian, which ensures real spectra of the Hamiltonian and unitary evolution of the system. However, real spectra are just the necessary conditions for a Hamiltonian to be Hermitian. In this paper, we discuss the metric operators for pseudo-Hermitian Hamiltonian which is similar to its adjoint. We first present some properties of the metric operators for pseudo-Hermitian Hamiltonians and obtain a sufficient and necessary condition for an invertible operator to be a metric operator for a given pseudo-Hermitian Hamiltonian. When the pseudo-Hermitian Hamiltonian has real spectra, we provide a new method such that any given metric operator can be transformed into the same positive-definite one and the new inner product with respect to the positive-definite metric operator is well defined. Finally, we illustrate the results obtained with an example. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]