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In this paper, we obtain the Euler-Lagrange equations for different kind of variational problems with the Lagrangian function containing the Riesz-Hilfer fractional derivative. Since the Riesz-Hilfer fractional derivative is a generalization for the Riesz-Riemann-Liouville and the Riesz-Caputo derivative, then our results generalize many recent works in which the Lagrangian function involving the Riesz-Riemann-Liouville or the Riesz-Caputo derivative. We also study the problem in the presence of delay derivatives and establish a version for Noether theorem in the Riesz-Hilfer sense. In order to achieve our aims we derive some formulas to integration by parts for the Riesz-Hilfer fractional derivative. In the last section, examples are given to clarify the possibility of applicability of our results. In order to clarify the significant conclusions of the paper, we refer to our techniques enable to study many different variational problems containing the Riesz-Hilfer derivative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An analysis of the influence of the direction of reinforcement in a composite material relative to the cyclic load on the heterogeneity of the distribution of local elastic strains measured by the thermal method of nondestructive testing is presented. In this study, the possibility of assessing the local distribution of stresses (strains) in the test object is demonstrated using the thermoelastic effect. The temperature field of the thermogram depends linearly on the stresses and strains at local points of the test object. Thermograms of laminates made of composite material with different arrangements of fibrous filler (fiberglass) with an epoxy matrix under cyclic loading were studied. To analyze the differences in the local distribution of strains, statistical data were used and variation coefficients were calculated. To visualize the strain levels, the clustering method and averaging of the temperature distribution values over the length of the laminates were used. The numerical characteristics of local temperature distributions were obtained, which showed a more uniform distribution when reinforcing the material in the direction of loading of the part. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Problem definition: We consider contract confidentiality in a decentralized supply chain, in which a single principal orders different components from different agents, each of which has private cost information. The principal may commit to publicly observed bilateral contracts or offer secretly observed contracts to each agent simultaneously. We also consider the problem of sequential contracting. Methodology/results: By correcting the main analysis in Hu and Qi [Hu B, Qi A (2018) Optimal procurement mechanisms for assembly. Manufacturing Service Oper. Management 20(4):655–666], we employ passive beliefs to study secret contracting. We show that there is a unique configuration of two-part tariffs under secret offers in both simultaneous and sequential contracting. We also extend the analysis to take into account ex post individual rationality (IR), which is arguably more relevant in this assembly setting. With ex post IR, we show that the traditional two-part tariffs should be augmented with payment adjustments. Managerial implications: We find that the efficiency achieved through public offers can be maintained with secret offers in this assembly setting contrary to conventional wisdom. Our analysis, thus, offers an explanation for why nondisclosure agreements are important and common in practice. Funding: This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China [Grant 72192805]. Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/msom.2024.0907. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Combined use of surface water and groundwater is a common practice in agricultural activities, but how the immobilize cadmium and its decrease in grains induced with irrigation micro-polluted surface water and groundwater is still poorly understood. This paper presents field experimental results in attempts to reveal the effect of irrigation water quality on cadmium migration and accumulation in winter wheat/summer maize rotation systems in Huabei plain while the cadmium content in 0-10 cm topsoil is 3.8 times, permissible value for agricultural land in China. The results showed there was no obviously influence on cadmium accumulation in grains irrigated with micro-polluted surface water during emergence and seeding stage, but there was significantly increased Cd content and a higher bioaccumulation factor in grains with micro-polluted surface water irrigation during jointing and booting stage. It was found a significantly inhibition for grain weight and uniformity with groundwater irrigation during jointing and booting stage, and winter wheat yield was significantly decreased with micro-polluted surface water irrigation during jointing and booting stage. It could be concluded irrigation water type can further immobilize Cd in mild and moderate contaminated soils, thus micro-polluted surface water can be adopted in seeding stage, and groundwater irrigated in jointing and booting stage at heavy metal pollution arable farmland to minimize the risk of biological chain pollution and food safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mixing cations in the perovskite structure has been shown to improve optoelectronic device performance and stability. In particular, CsxMA1‐xPbBr3 (MA = CH3NH3) has been used to build high‐efficiency light‐emitting diodes. Despite those advantages, little is known about the exact location of the cations in the mixed perovskite film, and how cation distribution affects device properties and stability. By using scanning tunneling microscopy , the exact atomic structure of the mixed cation CsxMA1‐xPbBr3 perovskite interface is revealed. In addition, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, ultraviolet photoemission spectroscopy and inverse photoemission spectroscopy are used to study the stability and electronic properties of the CsxMA1‐xPbBr3 perovskite film. Partial substitution of MA+ by Cs+ induces a modification of the perovskite surface structure, leading to improved device stability is shown. These results provide a better understanding of the key parameters involved in the stability of mixed cation perovskite solar cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electric field distribution of the oil-pressboard structure under impulse voltage provides vital reference for the design of transformer insulation. The electric field distribution under impulse voltage is usually held equivalent to that of the capacitive field and calculated by simulation software. An appropriate margin to the calculation results is then selected according to the allowable strength. The design value identified in such a manner, however, falls short of support and verification of actual measurement. The present paper proposes a non-contact real-time measuring method to explore the electric field distribution of the oil-pressboard structure under impulse voltage, using a created measuring apparatus that is composed of optical system, photoelectric converter device, sealed cavity, and impulse voltage generator. Calibrated and verified by a pair of plate electrodes which generated uniform electric field along the propagating direction of the laser beam, the measured values proved to tally well with the actual values of the electric field in terms of both variation trend and numerical value. The minimum sensitivity of the established measuring apparatus was recorded as 3.5 kV/mm and the maximum deviation was 3.6%. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This Special Issue "Biodegradation and Environmental Microbiomes" has collected 17 papers [[4], [6], [8], [10], [12], [14], [16], [18], [20]] that cover diverse researches in this field of environmental microbiology and bioremediation. 35889133 19 Yan L., Liang B., Qi M.-Y., Wang A.-J., Liu Z.-P. This Special Issue also discloses new microbial resources, in addition to the microbial resources summarized in reviews [[4]], that are key to efficient removal of naturally generated but disgusting materials from malfunctioning ecosystems [[7]] or chemically synthesized compounds such as decabromodiphenyl ether [[10]], tetracycline [[13]], and sulfamethoxazole [[14]]. Acknowledgments On behalf of all editors to this Special Issue, I am deeply thankful to all authors and reviewers who provided their contribution to this Special Issue. [Extracted from the article]

In the last decade, chiral symmetry in atomic nuclei has attracted significant attention and become one of the hot topics in current nuclear physics frontiers. This paper provides a review of experimental studies for nuclear chirality in China. In particular, the experimental setups, chiral mass regions, lifetime measurements, and simultaneous breaking of chirality and other symmetries are discussed in detail. These studies found a new chiral mass region (A ≈ 80), extended the boundaries of the A ≈ 100 and 130 chiral mass regions, and tested the chiral geometry of 130Cs, 106Ag, 80Br and 76Br by lifetime measurements. In addition, simultaneous breaking of chirality and other symmetries have been studied in 74As, 76Br, 78Br, 80Br, 81Kr and 131Ba. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we obtain necessary and sufficient conditions for all complete projective resolutions over a Morita ring Δ (0 , 0) (A , B , M , N) = A A N B B M A B . As special cases, we get a class of complete projective resolutions over Δ (0 , 0) (A , B , M , N) , from the ones over A and B. We also obtain necessary and sufficient conditions for all Gorenstein-projective modules over a Morita ring Δ (0 , 0) (A , B , M , N). As special cases, we get a class of Gorenstein-projective modules over Δ (0 , 0) (A , B , M , N) , from the ones over A and B. Furthermore, we determine all complete projective resolutions as well as all Gorenstein-projective modules over the 2 × 2 matrix algebra M 2 (A) over A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Acquired resistance is a threat to antifungal efficacy in medicine and agriculture. The diversity of possible resistance mechanisms and highly adaptive traits of pathogens make it difficult to predict evolutionary outcomes of treatments. We used directed evolution as an approach to assess the resistance risk to the new fungicide fenpicoxamid in the wheat pathogenic fungus Zymoseptoria tritici. Fenpicoxamid inhibits complex III of the respiratory chain at the ubiquinone reduction site (Qi site) of the mitochondrially encoded cytochrome b, a different site than the widely used strobilurins which inhibit the same complex at the ubiquinol oxidation site (Qo site). We identified the G37V change within the cytochrome b Qi site as the most likely resistance mechanism to be selected in Z. tritici. This change triggered high fenpicoxamid resistance and halved the enzymatic activity of cytochrome b, despite no significant penalty for in vitro growth. We identified negative cross‐resistance between isolates harbouring G37V or G143A, a Qo site change previously selected by strobilurins. Double mutants were less resistant to both QiIs and quinone outside inhibitors compared to single mutants. This work is a proof of concept that experimental evolution can be used to predict adaptation to fungicides and provides new perspectives for the management of QiIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using a comprehensive sample of U.S. manufacturing firms from 1992 to 2015, I test for the association between accounting comparability and firm productivity. I posit that increased accounting comparability facilitates learning from peer firms ultimately increasing firm productivity. Results show that accounting comparability is positively related to firm productivity and that one channel for this relation is improvement in inventory management. In cross-sectional analysis, I find that the relation between accounting comparability and firm productivity is stronger when (a) peer firms exhibit higher productivity and provide more informative filings; (b) subject firms exhibit higher product similarity with peer firms and face stiffer competition, and (c) subject firms operate in industries characterized by higher accounting quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boron-based compounds have triggered substantial attention due to their multifunctional properties, incorporating excellent hardness and superconductivity. While tetragonal metal borides LiB4 and NaB4 with BaAl4-type structure and striking clathrate boron motif have been induced under compression, there is still a lack of deep understanding of their potential properties at ambient pressure. We herein conduct a comprehensive study on I4/mmm-structured LiB4 and NaB4 under ambient pressure via first-principles calculations. Remarkably, both LiB4 and NaB4 are found to possess high Vickers hardness of 39 GPa, which is ascribed to the robust boron framework with strong covalency. Furthermore, their high hardness values together with distinguished stability make them highly potential superhard materials. Meanwhile, electron–phonon coupling analysis reveals that both LiB4 and NaB4 are conventional phonon-mediated superconductors, with critical temperatures of 6 and 8 K at 1 atmosphere pressure (atm), respectively, mainly arising from the coupling of B 2p electronic states and the low-frequency phonon modes associated with Li-, Na-, and B-derived vibrations. This work provides valuable insights into the mechanical and superconducting behaviors of metal borides and will boost further studies of emergent borides with multiple functionalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recent discovery of inherently stable two-dimensional (2D) transition-metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) provides a unique platform for spintronic devices. However, its efficacy for electric detection by spin Hall magnetoresistance (SMR) has not been established yet. In this work, we report on SMR in 2D TMDs/ferromagnet heterostructures, i.e., PtSe 2 /NiFe (Py), whose magnitude reaches the maximum with bilayer PtSe 2. Notably, the SMR value in bilayer PtSe 2 /Py heterostructures undergoes a sign change with increasing Py thickness. For thinner Py samples, the SMR rapidly decreases with increasing Py thickness, eventually changing from positive to negative. In the case of intermediate Py thicknesses, the SMR consistently exhibits negative behavior. However, for thicker Py samples, the negative SMR values gradually decrease. This complex behavior is attributed to the dominant and competing mechanisms that contribute to SMR, including the spin Hall effect (or Rashba-induced effect) and its inverse effect, the orbital Hall effect and its inverse effect, as well as interfacial spin–orbit-coupling-induced spin-current-to-charge-current conversion. These findings would expand the arsenal for advanced spintronic applications based on 2D TMDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, an ultra-thin absorber with a total thickness of 9.2 mm is designed and verified at the frequency band of 1–5.34 GHz. The absorber is composed of a layer of metasurface, multi-layered magnetic substrate, a layer of fragmented magnetic structure obtained by improved MOEA/D-GO (Multi-Objective Evolutionary Algorithm based on Decomposition combined with Enhanced Genetic Operators), and a copper back plate. The absorber is achieved by two steps. First, we designed and measured an ultra-thin absorber at 0.78–2.04 GHz by adding a layer metasurface onto the top of a basic multi-layer absorber composed of magnetic materials. The fractional bandwidth (FBW) of the absorber is 89.4%, and the electrical thickness is only 0.024 λ 0 at the lowest operating frequency. Second, to broaden the bandwidth, we use an improved MOEA/D-GO to optimize one magnetic layer of the absorber. The working frequency band of the optimized absorber is 1–5.34 GHz, covering L- (1–2 GHz), S- (2–4 GHz), and partial C-bands (4–8 GHz). Furthermore, we modified the structure of the metasurface to make the absorber polarization-independent. The FBW of the final absorber is 136.4%, and the electrical thickness is 0.031 λ 0 at the lowest operating frequency. The prototype of the absorber is measured, and the experimental results agree well with the simulated performance. The results show that the improved MOEA/D-GO can be used to design and optimize sophisticated electromagnetic (EM) structures with the predesigned properties, and the absorber with ultrathin thickness and light weight verified in this paper have great application potentials in EM compatibility, EM shielding, and radar cross section reduction at the low bands of the microwave spectrum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Functionalized separators are expected to serve as protective barriers to conquer the lithium dendrite penetration in lithium metal batteries. Herein, a novel self-supporting separator material has been successfully synthesized based on the cellulose acetate and Keggin-type polyoxometalate H3PMo12O40·xH2O (denoted as CA/PMo12). The incorporation of PMo12 facilitates the transformation of the original finger-like structure of the CA separator into a uniform three-dimensional porous grid architecture, which is more effective in inhibiting the growth of lithium dendrites. For the obtained CA/PMo12 separator, the mechanical strength, electrolyte uptake capacity, and Li+ anchoring ability are significantly improved. The plentiful ether and carbonyl functional groups of CA can effectively adsorb lithium ions and regulate the uniform lithium plating. More significantly, density functional theory calculations show that the coordination environment formed between PMo12 and CA is conducive to enhancing the adsorption ability of lithium ions and promoting the rapid migration of lithium ions. Meanwhile, PMo12 can act as an "ion sponge" to form a lithium-rich layer, making the distribution of charges on the lithium surface more uniform, while undergoing a reversible transformation between its reduced and oxidized states during repeated plating/stripping processes. Consequently, the Li//Li symmetric cell using a CA/PMo12 separator shows excellent plating/stripping efficiency after 1075 cycles with a low hysteresis voltage of 38.1 mV under 5 mA cm−2 and 1 mA h cm−2. Meanwhile, a LiFePO4//Li cell achieves a superior reversible capacity of 90 mA h g−1 after 100 cycles under 1 C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) is known for its high-quality seed oil and protein content. However, its use in animal feed is restricted due to antinutritional factors present in the seedcake, with sinapine being one of the main compounds that reduces palatability. Attempts to develop rapeseed germplasm with lower sinapine levels through traditional breeding methods have shown limited progress. Genetic transformation methods could create new genotypes with reduced sinapine levels by silencing key genes involved in sinapine biosynthesis, though these methods often result in transgenic or genetically modified plants. The recent development of CRISPR-Cas technology provides a precise and efficient approach to crop improvement, with the potential to generate transgene-free mutants. In this study, we targeted the BnaX.SGT.a genes for knockout using CRISPR-Cas editing. By utilizing our newly established protoplast regeneration and transfection protocol for rapeseed, we demonstrated that DNA-free CRISPR editing via protoplast-based ribonucleoprotein (RNP) delivery was highly effective. We achieved successful knockout of the BnaX.SGT.a paralogues, with an average mutation efficiency of over 30%. Sequencing results revealed a variety of mutation types, from 1 bp insertions to 10 bp deletions, with most mutants exhibiting frameshift mutations that led to premature stop codons. The mutants displayed no visible phenotypic differences in growth patterns or flowering compared to the wild type. Importantly, sinapine content was significantly reduced in all T2 generation mutants analysed, while seed weight remained comparable between mutants and the wild type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen fertilizer application is an important method for the production of high-quality maize. However, nitrogen fertilizer addition patterns vary according to regional climate, field management practices, and soil conditions. In this study, a meta-analysis was used to quantify the yield effects of nitrogen addition on maize, and meta-regression analysis and a random forest model were used to study the main factors affecting the yield effects of nitrogen addition on maize. The results showed that nitrogen addition significantly increased maize yield by 50.26%–55.72%, and a fluctuating increasing trend was observed with the advancement of the experimental year. The increase in maize yield upon nitrogen addition was the highest in Gansu Province, and showed a decreasing trend with the rise in average annual temperature, but did not change significantly with the average annual precipitation. Among the field management factors, the increase in maize yield was better with the variety Qiangsheng 51, topdressing at the jointing and tasseling stages (JS, TS), nitrogen application rate of 175–225 kg·ha-1, and controlled release of nitrogen fertilizer and urea (CRNFU) or the application of a combination of organic and inorganic nitrogen (OIF). Moreover, the positive effects of nitrogen fertilizer application on maize yield improved with soil pH, organic matter, available potassium, available phosphorus, and total nitrogen content; decreased with soil carbon and nitrogen ratio and available nitrogen (AN) content; and were enhanced in chestnut soil, clay, and at a bulk density of 1.2–1.4 g·cm-3. Random forest model and multifactorial optimization revealed that the effects of nitrogen addition on maize yield in Northwest China were primarily influenced by experimental year, variety, soil type, AN, and soil pH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alternative splicing (AS) is a mechanism that generates translational diversity within a genome. Equally important is the dynamic adaptability of the splicing machinery, which can give preference to one isoform over others encoded by a single gene. These isoform preferences change in response to the cell's state and function. Particularly significant is the impact of physiological alternative splicing in T lymphocytes, where specific isoforms can enhance or reduce the cells' reactivity to stimuli. This process makes splicing isoforms defining features of cell states, exemplified by CD45 splice isoforms, which characterize the transition from naïve to memory states. Two developments have accelerated the use of AS dynamics for therapeutic interventions: advancements in long-read RNA sequencing and progress in nucleic acid chemical modifications. Improved oligonucleotide stability has enabled their use in directing splicing to specific sites or modifying sequences to enhance or silence particular splicing events. This review highlights immune regulatory splicing patterns with potential significance for enhancing anticancer immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to their widespread geographic distribution and frequent outbreaks, mosquito-borne flaviviruses, such as DENV (DENV), Zika virus (ZIKV), Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), yellow fever virus (YFV), and West Nile virus (WNV), are considered significant global public health threats and contribute to dramatic socioeconomic imbalances worldwide. The global prevalence of these viruses is largely driven by extensive international travels and ecological disruptions that create favorable conditions for the breeding of Aedes and Culex species, the mosquito vectors responsible for the spread of these pathogens. Currently, vaccines are available for only DENV, YFV, and JEV, but these face several challenges, including safety concerns, lengthy production processes, and logistical difficulties in distribution, especially in resource-limited regions, highlighting the urgent need for innovative vaccine approaches. Nucleic acid-based platforms, including DNA and mRNA vaccines, have emerged as promising alternatives due to their ability to elicit strong immune responses, facilitate rapid development, and support scalable manufacturing. This review provides a comprehensive update on the progress of DNA and mRNA vaccine development against mosquito-borne flaviviruses, detailing early efforts and current strategies that have produced candidates with remarkable protective efficacy and strong immunogenicity in preclinical models. Furthermore, we explore future directions for advancing nucleic acid vaccine candidates, which hold transformative potential for enhancing global public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last few decades many applications of liquid crystals have been developed, including the widely employed technology of low-power, flat-panel liquid crystal displays (LCDs), but also sensors, photonic devices and other non-display applications employed in medicine and drug delivery. In recent years, the research trends have shifted in other directions. Nanotechnology and nanoscience have garnered significant attention in liquid crystal research since various nanomaterials or nanoparticles (NPs) can be added directly to the liquid crystalline mesogenic phases. The main idea is to modify the physical properties of liquid crystals or to increase their functionality through the addition of nanomaterials, but also to exploit the self-assembly and spontaneous ordering of LCs into structures or patterns that can be templated by dispersed particles. The neat liquid crystals and the doped nanoparticles/nanomaterials exhibit different behaviours when mixed together. The nanoparticles can influence the alignment and orientation of liquid crystals, and their interaction with the liquid crystals causes the changes in the optical, electrical, and mechanical characteristics of the composite. At the same time the liquid crystal can affect the ordering, structuring and properties of the nanomaterials, for example by transfer of helical order. In this review, we discuss the effects of nanoparticles dispersed in liquid crystals. Several categories of nanomaterials such as metallic, carbon allotropes, nanorod and nanowires will be introduced, together with particles of additional functionality, like ferroelectricity, semiconductors and quantum dots. The combination of liquid crystals and nanoparticles leads to a wide range of applications and novel technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During boreal summer, the Southwest Monsoon Current (SMC) turns northeastward, transporting highly saline water into the Bay of Bengal (BOB) and significantly influencing the dynamics of the upper ocean. Previous studies have shown that an anticyclonic semi-geostrophic (SG) eddy forms on the eastern flank of the SMC, this formation associated with the kinetic energy transfer via the barotropic instability (BTI). The presence of such an eddy can attenuate the meridional salinity flux, potentially affecting the development of the circulation within the BOB. Acknowledging the importance of this phenomenon, this study revisits the SG eddy using satellite altimetry data, reanalysis datasets and in-situ observations from the Research Moored Array for African-Asian-Australian Monsoon Analysis and Prediction (RAMA) project. Our results show that a cyclonic eddy-like (CE-like) negative Sea Level Anomaly (SLA), generated in the eastern BOB due to regional anomalous wind stress curl, also contributes to the formation of the SG eddy. During the formation, mean flows on the northern edge of the SG eddy are strengthened, while southeastward currents on the eastern edge are structured influenced by CE-like SLA. Further instability analyses indicate that the anisotropic component of BTI is significantly larger than the isotropic component, which is attributed to the weak nonlinear planetary geostrophic convergence of the SG eddy and the strong horizontal shear in mean flow field induced by CE-like SLA. Additionally, our results point out that anomalies in wind stress curl over the eastern BOB and subsequent formation of negative SLA are likely influenced by the Indian Ocean Dipole. These findings suggest that the coupling between SMC instability and regional wind stress curl may play a pivotal role in the generation of SG eddy on interannual timescale, with important implications for regional ocean dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For over a century after their discovery astrocytes were regarded merely as cells located among other brain cells to hold and give support to neurons. Astrocytes activation, "astrocytosis" or A1 functional state, was considered a detrimental mechanism against neuronal survival. Recently, the scientific view on astrocytes has changed. Accumulating evidence indicate that astrocytes are not homogeneous, but rather encompass heterogeneous subpopulations of cells that differ from each other in terms of transcriptomics, molecular signature, function and response in physiological and pathological conditions. In this review, we report and discuss the recent literature on the phenomic differences of astrocytes in health and their modifications in disease conditions, focusing mainly on the hippocampus, a region involved in learning and memory encoding, in the age-related memory impairments, and in Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia. The morphological and functional heterogeneity of astrocytes in different brain regions may be related to their different housekeeping functions. Astrocytes that express diverse transcriptomics and phenomics are present in strictly correlated brain regions and they are likely responsible for interactions essential for the formation of the specialized neural circuits that drive complex behaviors. In the contiguous and interconnected hippocampal areas CA1 and CA3, astrocytes show different, finely regulated, and region-specific heterogeneity. Heterogeneous astrocytes have specific activities in the healthy brain, and respond differently to physiological or pathological stimuli, such as inflammaging present in normal brain aging or beta-amyloid-dependent neuroinflammation typical of AD. To become reactive, astrocytes undergo transcriptional, functional, and morphological changes that transform them into cells with different properties and functions. Alterations of astrocytes affect the neurovascular unit, the blood–brain barrier and reverberate to other brain cell populations, favoring or dysregulating their activities. It will be of great interest to understand whether the differential phenomics of astrocytes in health and disease can explain the diverse vulnerability of the hippocampal areas to aging or to different damaging insults, in order to find new astrocyte-targeted therapies that might prevent or treat neurodegenerative disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breast cancer (BrCa) is a complex and heterogeneous disease with diverse molecular subtypes, leading to varied clinical outcomes and posing significant treatment challenges. The increasing global burden of BrCa, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, underscores the urgent need for more effective therapeutic strategies. The androgen receptor (AR), expressed in a substantial proportion of breast cancer cases, has emerged as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target. In breast cancer, AR exhibits diverse functions across subtypes, often interacting with other hormone receptors, thereby influencing tumor progression and treatment responses. This intricate interplay is further complicated by the presence of constitutively expressed AR splice variants (AR-Vs) that drive resistance to AR-targeting therapies through structural rearrangements in the domains and activation of aberrant signaling pathways. Although AR-targeting drugs, initially developed for prostate cancer (PCa), have shown promise in AR-positive breast cancer, significant gaps remain in understanding AR's precise functions and therapeutic potential. The systemic management of breast cancer is guided primarily by theranostic biomarkers; ER, PR, HER2, and Ki67 which also dictate the breast cancer classification. The ubiquitous expression of AR in BrCa and the emergence of AR-Vs can assist the management of disease complementing the standard of care. This article provides a comprehensive overview of AR and its splice variants in the context of breast cancer, highlighting their prognostic and predictive value across different subtypes looking beyond the conventional ER, PR, and HER2 status. This review also raises the possibility of using AR splice variants in predicting tumor aggressiveness. From the settings of developing nations, this may provide useful insight by integrating recent advances in AR-targeted therapies and exploring their translational potential, emphasizing the critical need for further research to optimize AR-based therapeutic strategies for breast cancer management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pancreatic cancer is one of the most malignant tumors with an inferior prognosis. This study aims to determine the prognostic significance of immune-inflammatory scores and coagulation indices in patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer(MPC) and develop a predictive nomogram. Methods: This study retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 384 patients with MPC who underwent intra-arterial infusion chemotherapy (IAIC). Patients were randomly divided into training and validation cohorts. Firstly, the optimal cutoff values for continuous variables were obtained in the training cohort. Then, survival analysis was performed to evaluate the impact of immune-inflammatory scores neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), and coagulation indicators prothrombin time (PT), fibrinogen (FIB), and D-dimer on the overall survival (OS) of patients. Next, univariate analysis was utilized to identify prognostic factors, and a stepwise regression method was employed for variable selection to construct a nomogram based on the Cox proportional hazards model. Additionally, the predictive performance of the nomogram was assessed by the concordance index (C-index), the area under the ROC curve (AUC), and calibration curves. Finally, patients were stratified into risk groups based on the total score of the nomogram. Results: The Kaplan–Meier survival curves indicated that immune-inflammatory scores NLR, PLR, SII, and coagulation indicators PT, FIB, and D-dimer were associated with OS. Through Cox regression analysis, a nomogram was ultimately constructed incorporating NLR, PLR, PT, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125), age, and ablation. The model demonstrated good discriminative ability, with a C-index of 0.722, and the AUC values at 6- and 12-month OS predictions were 0.828 and 0.851 in the training cohort, while in the validation cohort, the corresponding AUC values were 0.754 and 0.791, respectively. The calibration curves showed a good fit, confirming the stability of the model. A cutoff value of 353.3 was identified as optimal for risk stratification, with a statistically significant difference in OS between the high- and low-risk groups. Conclusion: The nomogram based on immune-inflammatory scores, coagulation indicators, and other clinicopathological factors can effectively predict the OS of patients with MPC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An iron oxide catalyst with high-index (13–44) and (12–38) facets achieves a high faradaic efficiency of 96.54% and a production rate of 1.13 mmol h−1 cm−2 towards electrocatalytic nitrate reduction to ammonia at 250 mA cm−2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the promising potential of recycling spent lithium-ion battery (LIB) electrode materials for sustainable development and resource reuse, conventional regeneration methods struggle to meet the increasing demand for higher-energy-density and lower-cost LIBs. In this study, utilizing a binary eutectic salt system, we present a value-added upcycling approach aimed at transforming spent low-nickel layered oxide cathode materials into high-nickel counterparts. Incorporating NiCO3 and MnCO3 additives, this eutectic salt system creates a lithium-rich molten environment that effectively facilitates the diffusion of both lithium ions and transition metal ions. Consequently, this upcycling strategy not only restores the layered structure of the material but also substantially enhances its capacity and cycling stability. The upcycled LiNi0.7Co0.1Mn0.2 (NCM712) cathode demonstrated a high capacity of 191 mA h g−1 at a current density of 0.1C. Even after 100 cycles at 0.5C, the cathode retains a substantial capacity of 164 mA h g−1 with a remarkable capacity retention of 91%. Furthermore, under a high current density of 5C, the upcycled NCM712 cathode maintains a commendable capacity of 141 mA h g−1. In summary, our proposed strategy offers a feasible approach to realize the value-added recycling of spent LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cesium lead bromide (CsPbBr3) has attracted considerable attention as a promising candidate for photovoltaic and optoelectronic applications owing to its relatively high defect tolerance. So far, most studies have focused on single vacancy defects while the effect of higher-order divacancy has been overlooked. Here we uncover the mechanism of formation of the Br divacancy (DVBr), a popular type of defect that usually develops with time. We predict that DVBr is formed via merging two isolated Br single vacancies (VBr) and is stabilized in an apical configuration. Owing to the low formation energy of VBr, resulting in a high population of vacancy, we predict that DVBr could be common in CsPbBr3, especially for those samples that are highly radiated or exposed to electric field or Br-poor environment. A single VBr tends to be stabilized as −1 charged defect (VBr1−), forming a Pb–Pb dimer, especially in p-doped CsPbBr3, and possesses an in-gap defective level at 0.53 eV below the bottom of the conduction band. This Pb–Pb dimer would be the smallest metal Pb cluster in CsPbBr3, and likely in other Pb-based perovskites, and is harmful for light emission because of its deep localized defective level. Fortunately, the number of VBr1− could be dropped through VBr1− = VBr0 + e− and converted into a begin VBr0 being free of in-gap defect level and an unbound Pb–Pb structure. Each DVBr is stabilized by a redox charge transfer process via 2VBr0 → VBr1+ + VBr1−, and also possesses a deep defect level, similar to VBr1−. We also demonstrate the ease of forming Cl and I substituent dopants in CsPbBr3. Our work can inspire further studies on vacancy clusters in other metal halide perovskites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perovskite-based tandem solar cells (PTSCs) have made remarkable achievements in recent years, and the highest certified power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 33.9% has been achieved in perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells (PSTSCs), indicating their great commercialization potential. Nevertheless, the performance of PTSCs continues to be hindered by the compromised performance of wide-bandgap perovskite solar cells (WPSCs), particularly the high VOC deficit of WPSCs. Therefore, numerous strategies have been developed to minimize the VOC loss of WPSCs. Herein, we sort to comprehensively review about the reported studies on reducing the VOC deficit of WPSCs, focusing on interface modification, charge transport material (CTM) exploration, and additive engineering, with the aim of providing guidelines for increasing the VOC of WPSCs. Finally, we will provide a conclusive outlook on WPSCs, sharing our perspectives to inspire further advancements in both WPSCs and PTSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevailing trend in industrial equipment development is integration, with pipelines as the lifeline connecting system components. Given the often harsh conditions of these industrial equipment pipelines, leakage is a common occurrence that can disrupt normal operations and, in severe cases, lead to safety accidents. Early detection of even minor drips at the onset of leakage can enable timely maintenance measures, preventing more significant leaks and halting the escalation of pipeline failures. In light of this, our study investigates a method for monitoring pipe drips in industrial equipment using machine vision technology. We propose a machine vision model specifically designed for pipe drip detection, aiming to facilitate monitoring of pipe system drips. The system designed to collect the image of the droplet side cross-section with a Charge charge-coupled device (CCD) industrial camera, is aided by the computer image processing system used to analyze and process the collected images. Image enhancement technology is applied to improve the visibility of the image and image filtering technology is applied to remove the noise of the image. With the help of image segmentation technology, target droplet identification and division are achieved. Morphological reconstruction and region-filling techniques are used to remove the noise caused by shooting in the side cross-section image, such as hollow, reflection, and irregular droplet edge, to upgrade the quality of the solution droplet edge. The mathematical model is established for boundary position points extracted from the droplet side cross-section image. Then, the fitting droplet image is drawn. The droplet volume is obtained by calculating the volume of the rotating body. The two-dimensional image of the target droplet is obtained dynamically through the camera capture technology. The droplet boundary extraction algorithm is proposed, and the three-dimensional model of the target droplet is established, so the volume calculation problem of the droplet is solved, which provides a way of thinking for drip leakage detection of the pipeline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Previous research has made use of the Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) index to explore the association between shiftwork (SW) and insulin resistance (IR). However, the limitations of the HOMA-IR index restrict its use. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between SW and IR in professional drivers using four alternative non-insulin-based IR surrogate measures (NIRS), and to determine the predictors of elevated NIRS. Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted on professional drivers at four Egyptian companies, where 187 SW were compared to 193 dayworkers (DW). Measurements included: sociodemographic, work, and clinical characteristics. Laboratory and NIRS data included: triglyceride glucose (TyG), triglyceride glucose-body mass index (TyG-BMI), triglyceride to high density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C), and metabolic score of insulin resistance (METS-IR). Further assessments included insomnia severity index (ISI), and perceived stress scale (PSS-10). Results: Shiftwork-drivers showed significantly higher levels of NIRS compared to DW-drivers. Shiftwork was significantly associated with elevated TyG (OR: 5.04, 95% CI: 1.98–12.84), TyG-BMI (OR: 4.50, 95% CI: 2.45–8.26), and METS-IR (OR: 6.30, 95% CI: 2.72–14.58). Significant interactions between SW and insomnia or meal-timing habits existed, where SW-drivers with clinically significant insomnia had 11 times higher odds of elevated TyG compared to DW drivers without insomnia. Likewise, SW-drivers experiencing poor meal timing habits had 5.5- and 6.8-times higher odds of elevated TG/HDL-C and METS-IR, respectively, compared to DW divers without poor meal timing habits. Other significant predictors for elevated NIRS included: age, income, stress, overweight/obesity, and poor meal timing habits. Conclusions: This study demonstrates a significant association between shiftwork and elevated insulin resistance in professional drivers. Insomnia and poor meal timing habits significantly increases the odds of insulin resistance among professional drivers, suggesting interventions targeting sleep quality, meal timing, and stress management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Swine influenza virus (SIV) is a highly contagious pathogen that poses significant economic challenges to the swine industry and carries zoonotic potential, underscoring the need for vigilant surveillance. In this study, we performed a comprehensive genetic and molecular analysis of H3N2 SIV isolates obtained from 372 swine samples collected in Shandong Province, China. Phylogenetic analysis revealed two distinct genotypes. The surface genes of both genotypes clustered with the human-like H3N2 lineage, while the internal genes of one genotype clustered with the 2009 pandemic H1N1 (pdm/09) lineage. In the second genotype, the NS gene clustered with the classical swine (CS) H1N1 lineage, while the remaining internal genes clustered with pdm/09, suggesting stable integration of pdm/09 gene segments into H3N2 SIV. Homology analysis showed over 96% genetic similarity between the isolates and reference strains from China and Brazil, suggesting potential transmission through swine trade or human movement. Molecular characterization identified amino acid substitutions in the HA protein (190D, 226I, and 228S), potentially enhancing the virus's affinity for human-like receptors, thereby increasing the zoonotic risk. Key mutations in the PB2 (271A, 591R), PA (336M, 356R, 409N), and M2 (S31N) proteins, along with novel drug resistance mutations, indicate the potential for enhanced virulence and drug resistance in these isolates. Moreover, glycosylation site analysis revealed four differences, and antigenic site analysis showed 13 differences between the HA proteins of the isolates and the WHO-recommended vaccine strain A/Cambodia/E0826360/2020 for the 2021–2022 season, which may reduce vaccine efficacy. Serological analysis revealed that 11 out of the tested serum samples were positive for H3N2 antibodies, resulting in an overall positivity rate of 0.42%. These findings emphasize the urgent need for strengthened SIV surveillance in China to monitor the risk of human transmission and ensure better preparedness for future influenza outbreaks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In mountain tunnels, a series of advanced reinforcement measures are often employed to maintain the stability of the tunnel face, particularly in challenging geological conditions. However, there is a lack of design theories regarding the advanced support structure for uniquely shaped tunnel faces, necessitating further exploration. Based on the limit equilibrium method, this paper presents a derivation of the mechanical model for analyzing excavation face stability considering shape changes and bolts. Additionally, a design theory for horizontal glass fiber bolts in longitudinally inclined tunnel faces is established. The reinforcement effect of the pipe shed is further considered. Finally, the proposed model is validated, and parameter analysis is conducted to guide design practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tumor microenvironment (TME) is integral to cancer progression, impacting metastasis and treatment response. It consists of diverse cell types, extracellular matrix components, and signaling molecules that interact to promote tumor growth and therapeutic resistance. Elucidating the intricate interactions between cancer cells and the TME is crucial in understanding cancer progression and therapeutic challenges. A critical process induced by TME signaling is the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), wherein epithelial cells acquire mesenchymal traits, which enhance their motility and invasiveness and promote metastasis and cancer progression. By targeting various components of the TME, novel investigational strategies aim to disrupt the TME's contribution to the EMT, thereby improving treatment efficacy, addressing therapeutic resistance, and offering a nuanced approach to cancer therapy. This review scrutinizes the key players in the TME and the TME's contribution to the EMT, emphasizing avenues to therapeutically disrupt the interactions between the various TME components. Moreover, the article discusses the TME's implications for resistance mechanisms and highlights the current therapeutic strategies toward TME modulation along with potential caveats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is frequently associated with increased incidence and mortality of pulmonary hypertension (PH). The immune response contributes to pulmonary artery remodeling and OSA-related diseases. The immunologic factors linked to OSA-induced PH are not well understood. STAT6 is crucial in the signaling pathway that modulates immune response. However, the status of phosphorylated STAT6 (p-STAT6) in an OSA-induced PH mouse model remains largely unexplored. Methods: Chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) plays a crucial role in the progression of OSA. This study utilized a in vivo CIH model to examine the role of STAT6 in CIH-induced PH. Results: CIH mice exhibited pulmonary artery remodeling and pulmonary hypertension, indicated by increased right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP), higher right ventricular to left ventricular plus septum (RV/LV + S) ratios, and significant morphological alterations compared to normoxic (Nor) mice. Increased p-STAT6 in the lungs and elevated p-STAT6 + IL-4 + producing T cells in CIH mice. STAT6 deficiency (STAT6-/-) improved PH and PA remodeling in CIH-induced PH mouse models.STAT6 deficiency impaired the T helper 2 (Th2) immune response, affecting IL-4 and IL-13 secretion. IL-4, rather than IL-13, activated STAT6 in human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (hPASMCs). STAT6 knockdown decreased the proliferation in IL-4 treated hPASMCs. Conclusion: These findings exhibit the critical role of STAT6 in the pathogenesis of CIH induced PH by regulating Th2 immune response.STAT6 could be a significant therapeutic target for OSA-related PH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]