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Background: Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a life-threatening thromboembolic disease for which there is limited evidence for effective prevention and treatment. Our goal was to determine whether genetically predicted circulating blood cell traits could influence the incidence of PE. Methods: Using single variable Mendelian randomization (SVMR) and multivariate Mendelian randomization (MVMR) analyses, we identified genetic associations between circulating blood cell counts and lymphocyte subsets and PE. GWAS blood cell characterization summary statistics were compiled from the Blood Cell Consortium. The lymphocyte subpopulation counts were extracted from summary GWAS statistics for samples from 3757 individuals that had been analyzed by flow cytometry. GWAS data related to PE were obtained from the FinnGen study. Results: According to the SVMR and reverse MR, increased levels of circulating white blood cells (odds ratio [OR]: 0.88, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.81-0.95, p = 0.0079), lymphocytes (OR: 0.90, 95% CI: 0.84-0.97, p = 0.0115), and neutrophils (OR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.81–0.96, p = 0.0108) were causally associated with PE susceptibility. MVMR analysis revealed that lower circulating lymphocyte counts (OR: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.75-0.94, p = 0.0139) were an independent predictor of PE. According to further MR results, this association may be primarily related to HLA-DR+ natural killer (NK) cells. Conclusions: Among European populations, there is a causal association between genetically predicted low circulating lymphocyte counts, particularly low HLA-DR+ NK cells, and an increased risk of PE. This finding supports observational studies that link peripheral blood cells to PE and provides recommendations for predicting and preventing this condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Persistent truncus arteriosus is a rare congenital cyanotic heart defect characterized by a single ventricular outflow tract. Without surgical intervention, it has a poor prognosis in infancy. Here, we report an adult female patient with uncorrected truncus arteriosus type I, who presented with acute-onset abdominal pain due to torsion of a small bowel gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST). Case Report: A 41-year-old woman came to our Emergency Department with acute-onset lower abdominal pain for 2 days. Congenital heart disease, truncus arteriosus, had been diagnosed at birth, and there had been no surgical intervention. Abdominal computed tomography revealed a 10×9×12-cm mixed-density mass in the pelvic capacity. Transthoracic echocardiography revealed a 33-mm ventricular septal defect. The ascending aorta originated mainly from the right ventricle, and the pulmonary artery originated from the beginning of the aorta (type I truncus arteriosus, according to Collett and Edwards classification). After a quick and detailed preoperative workup, the patient underwent tumor resection by open surgery with general anesthesia. Conclusions: This is the first case to report emergency surgery for a patient with uncorrected persistent truncus arteriosus due to torsion of a small bowel GIST. A multidisciplinary team with deep understanding of the disease entity was crucial. By considering the fixed hemodynamic and respiratory physiology, overtreatment and unrealistic goals were avoided. Eventually, the patient was discharged after being hospitalized for 2 weeks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: In order to further improve the manufacturing technology of resonator facet of GaAs (gallium arsenide)-based laser, the scratching process of GaAs was simulated by molecular dynamics. Models of GaAs crystals with different orientations, including GaAs [100], GaAs [110], and GaAs [111], were generated, followed by scratch simulations on these models. The surface characteristics of scratches, damage width, subsurface damage, stack height, and the distribution and activity characteristics of dislocations were analyzed based on the simulation results. The results show that there are obvious anisotropy in the deformation of different crystal orientation during the scratching process of GaAs. Surface features, damage width, subsurface damage, and dislocation dynamics during scraping in GaAs crystals strongly depend on crystal orientation. It was also observed that GaAs exhibits distinct characteristics of dislocation activity during the scratching process, depending on its crystal orientation. In addition, GaAs [110] crystal direction has the smallest maximum damage width and subsurface damage depth. The maximum of maximum damage width is in GaAs [100] crystal direction, and the maximum subsurface damage depth is in GaAs [111] crystal direction. In addition, the stacking height is maximum when GaAs [100] is scraped and minimum when GaAs [110] is scraped. Methods: The engraving quality of GaAs materials was investigated utilizing the LAMMPS software through molecular dynamics simulations, while observations were facilitated using the OVITO software. The MD simulation was conducted employing the NPT ensemble, with the temperature fixed at 300 K. A time step of 2 fs was utilized, and the total duration of the MD simulation spanned 600 ps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To address the challenge of reducing aerodynamic drag while further enhancing the speed of high-speed trains, this research employs the concept of flow control for the bottom parts and draws inspiration from the front wings of Formula 1 (F1) race cars. Three kinds of two-multistage wing deflectors are designed and systematically analyzed by unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (URANS) turbulent model. The most suitable design is determined by the single bogie model with a simplified train body. Using the improved delayed detached eddy simulation method, the aerodynamic drag of 1:8 three-car train models with or without two-multistage wing deflector is studied at different operational speeds. The results present the total drag reduction is higher at higher speeds. The reductions of 4.26%, 3.92%, 3.63%, and 3.49% are obtained at the operating speeds of 400, 350, 300, and 200 km/h, respectively. The two-multistage wing deflector desirably improves the flow structure at the bottom of the train, which leads to the reduction of aerodynamic drag and a corresponding reduction in the positive pressure zones within the bogie area. Furthermore, the deflector restricts shedding vortices, effectively narrowing the interference range of airflow under the train, which will provide a potential drag reduction method for the next generation high-speed train. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interpolation of probability distributions can be formulated as an optimal transport problem. Positive matrix, which can be viewed as the generalization of probability distribution to higher dimension, is used in quantum theory to describe the state of a quantum system. Here, a quantum‐inspired method for the interpolation of positive matrices is proposed. Particularly, this method employs the quantum state purification of the positive matrices in an extended space. Since pure state controllability can be easily achieved using open‐loop coherent control, the continuous interpolation of positive matrices is given as a completely positive map induced by simulating the optimal control for pure state transfer. The quantum‐inspired interpolation is shape‐preserving with applications to tensor field processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We demonstrate an optically tunable mode-locked fiber laser using long-period fiber grating (LPFG) coated with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The multi-walled CNTs can absorb light to convert it into thermal energy, and the resonance wavelength of the grating can be easily turned by varying the external modulated light power. This multi-walled CNT coated LPFG-based all-optical fast and efficient spectrum tunable filter enables continuous tuning of the central wavelength of the laser by manipulating the loss of the mode-locked laser, ensuring the stability of the mode-locking state. In the absence of modulated light on multi-walled CNTs, the soliton laser could generate 890 fs pulses at 1546.7 nm with a spectrum bandwidth of 3.26 nm and a signal-to-noise ratio of 73.1 dB. Through adjustment of the pump power of the modulation light on multi-walled CNTs, the mode-locked fiber laser can be continuously tuned from 1546.71 to 1563.15 nm. The response time of the optically tunable system was measured to be in the order of hundreds of milliseconds. The presented optical tuning filter shows great potential in the fiber laser system, offering a repeatable, straightforward, and rapidly responsive laser tuning technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For a terminal weak ${\mathbb {Q}}$ -Fano threefold X , we show that the m th anti-canonical map defined by $|-mK_X|$ is birational for all $m\geq 59$. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decades of research have demonstrated an incontrovertible role of amyloid-ß (Aß) in the etiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the overemphasis on the pathological impacts of Aß may obscure the role of its metabolic precursor, amyloid precursor protein (APP), as a significant hub in the occurrence and progression of AD. The complicated enzymatic processing, ubiquitous receptor-like properties, and abundant expression of APP in the brain, as well as its close links with systemic metabolism, mitochondrial function and neuroinflammation, imply that APP plays multifaceted roles in AD. In this review, we briefly describe the evolutionarily conserved biological characteristics of APP, including its structure, functions and enzymatic processing. We also discuss the possible involvement of APP and its enzymatic metabolites in AD, both detrimental and beneficial. Finally, we describe pharmacological agents or genetic approaches with the capability to reduce APP expression or inhibit its cellular internalization, which can ameliorate multiple aspects of AD pathologies and halt disease progression. These approaches provide a basis for further drug development to combat this terrible disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a novel flip-fold removal model was established to reveal the ductile–brittle mixed removal phenomenon in the grinding process of glass-ceramics. This flip-fold model proposed for the ductile–brittle mixed removal mode differs from conventional brittle or ductile removal mechanisms. Using the theoretical exploration method, a theoretical model of flip-fold removal is established based on the analysis of different scenarios of the relationship between the depth of the stagnation region and pile-up height of the interference zone. Through an experimental verification method, the approach of crossing double scratches with a continuously variable scratch distance is proposed to observe the evolution progression and verify the flip-fold removal model. Using the analytical analysis method, the amplitude and direction cosine distributions of the interference stress field were analysed to reveal the internal mechanism of the flip-fold removal model. The results of the three scientific research methods were in good agreement with those of the proposed model. The flip-fold material removal model supports the comprehension of the ductile–brittle mixed removal mode during the grinding of hard-brittle materials. This model provides an approach to controlling the material removal mode from the perspective of regulating the flip-fold behaviour by adjusting the scratch distance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let |$X$| be a Calabi–Yau variety of Picard number two with infinite birational automorphism group. We show that the numerical dimension |$\kappa ^{\mathbb{R}}_{\sigma }$| of the extremal rays of the closed movable cone of |$X$| is |$\dim X/2$|⁠. More generally, we investigate the relation between the two numerical dimensions |$\kappa ^{\mathbb{R}}_{\sigma }$| and |$\kappa ^{\mathbb{R}}_{\textrm{vol}}$| for Calabi–Yau varieties. We also compute |$\kappa ^{\mathbb{R}}_{\sigma }$| for non-big divisors in the closed movable cone of a projective hyperkähler manifold. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide, yet its genetic determinants are incompletely defined. We perform a European ancestry genome-wide association (GWA) meta-analysis and a Hispanic/Latino ancestry GWA meta-analysis and meta-analyze both in a multi-ancestry GWAS meta-analysis of BCC, totaling 50,531 BCC cases and 762,234 controls from four cohorts (GERA, Mass-General Brigham Biobank, UK Biobank, and 23andMe research cohort). Here we identify 122 BCC-associated loci, of which 36 were novel, and subsequently fine-mapped these associations. We also identify an association of the well-known pigment gene SLC45A2 as well as associations at RCC2 and CLPTM1L with BCC in Hispanic/Latinos. We examine these BCC loci for association with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) in 16,407 SCC cases and 762,486 controls of European ancestry, and 33 SNPs show evidence of association. Our study findings provide important insights into the genetic basis of BCC and cSCC susceptibility. A large multi-ancestry genome-wide meta-analysis identifies novel basal cell carcinoma loci and shared genetic effects with squamous cell carcinoma, providing insight into the genetic basis of these serious forms of cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heteroepitaxy of GaAs on Si enables well-functioning III–V semiconductor lasers integrated onto silicon, solving the issue of lacking purely silicon-based light sources. Since GaAs has been the key material in many III–V laser structures, the Si-based GaAs epilayer should be of high quality which requires a low surface roughness and dislocation density. Herein, we demonstrate a high-quality heteroepitaxy of 1.84 μm GaAs on Si (001) substrates by molecular beam epitaxy. By virtue of multi-time thermal cycle annealing, the surface roughness was reduced to 1.74 nm within a scan area of 10 × 10 μm2, and the measured threading dislocation density was as low as 6.87 × 106/cm2. Periodic interfacial misfit dislocation arrays were found at the GaAs/Si interface with a misfit-dislocation-spacing distance of 9.6 nm. The formation of these arrays is attributed to the usage of thermal cycle annealing which makes near-interface TDs form into in-plane misfit dislocations. The demonstrated epitaxy scheme of growing such high-quality GaAs/Si virtual substrates provides a feasible way to fabricate III–V semiconductor lasers with enhanced performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utilization of air-coupled ultrasonic technology is crucial for examining objects that are challenging to establish contact with or cannot endure coupling. Nevertheless, air-coupled ultrasonic is susceptible to various factors such as impedance mismatch, sound wave attenuation, and environmental noise, consequently leading to a diminished signal-to-noise ratio of the received signal. This reduction in signal quality amplifies the complexity of analysis and imaging processes. In this study, a generic air-coupled ultrasonic signal processing and imaging procedure for ultrasonic inspection is proposed, which capitalizes on time-frequency analysis. This methodology attains a heightened level of stability and superior signal-to-noise ratio imaging through a series of procedural steps, encompassing feature extraction, denoising, and the reconstruction of the A-scan signals. The efficacy of the proposed approach is quantitatively assessed in terms of signal-to-noise ratio, probability of detection, robustness, and generality. This innovative method presents a newfangled resolution for automated air-coupled ultrasonic testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The carbon footprint embodied in international population mobility has a complex spatial correlation, which exacerbates the difficulty of global climate governance. However, the features, changing trends, and determinants of the carbon footprint flow embodied in global population migration are poorly understood. This study employed social network analysis and the exponential random graph model (ERGM) to investigate the structural changes and drivers of the carbon footprint network embodied in global migration from 1995 to 2015. The results showed that approximately 50% of carbon footprint flow embodied in international migration flowed from developing to developed countries. The spatial connections between countries in the network were becoming increasingly close, displaying a typical small-world structure, and showing low reciprocity and negative assortativity. Moreover, centrality analysis highlighted the United States and the European Union as being at the core of the network, whereas some emerging economies (e.g., China, India, and South Africa) were shown as having an increasing influence on the network. The determinants of network formation were divided into three effects. For node attribute effect, countries with developed economy, high proportion of industrial value added, urbanization and openness were becoming the destinations of carbon inflows from immigrants, while countries with high consumption of renewable energy and energy intensity had a trend of carbon outflows with emigrants over periods. As for exogenous network effect, the significance of economic integration on the formation of the network was strengthening, while that of geographical proximity and cultural similarity was declining. Additionally, the positive impact of self-organizational effect on the network was decreasing. This study provided guidance for countries to formulate policies to reduce the carbon emissions embodied in international migration. • The network of carbon footprint flows embodied in global migration was established. • The features, changing trends, and determinants of the network were analyzed by SNA. • The determinants of the network were categorized into three groups with the ERGM. • These included self-organizational, node-attribute and exogenous network effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel extension of smoothed finite element method (S-FEM) to solve three-dimensional turbulent flows. • RANS equations with realizable k-ε turbulence model in conjunction with SUPG and SPGP stabilization method. • The better performance of S-FEM in dealing with turbulent flows near boundary regions and strong convection regions compared to the Q1-Q1 and P1-P1 mixed with Q1-Q1 FEM. • Analysis of the performance of the mixed mesh based S-FEM on turbulent flows. Smoothed finite element method (S-FEM) has been widely employed in computational mechanics, particularly in computational solid mechanics (CSM) and, to a lesser extent, in computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The present work focuses on the development of S-FEM for solving three-dimensional incompressible turbulent flow problems using the realizable k-ε model. The Streamline Upwind Petrov-Galerkin approach combined with Stabilized Pressure Gradient Projection (SUPG/SPGP) was used to restrain/control the spatial oscillation and instability in conjunction with mixed meshes employed to discretize complex geometries. The presented turbulent cell-based S-FEM (CS-FEM) was validated under several common flow types, including mesh turbulence, turbulent channel flow, turbulent flow past a circular cylinder, flow separation around an obstacle, flow in the dimpled channel, and flow in the upper human airway. In particular, the presented work exhibited the latent capability of the CS-FEM in solving turbulent flows near boundary regions and strong convection regions. Meanwhile, the results of the CS-FEM were compared to those of the lowest equal-order finite element method (i.e. P1–P1 or Q1–Q1 elements) in simulating turbulent flows, and it was found that the CS-FEM had better agreement with other published works. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The senescence of aortic valve interstitial cells (VICs) plays a critical role in the progression of calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD). However, the precise mechanisms underlying the senescence of VICs remain unclear, demanding the identification of a novel target to mitigate this process. Previous studies have highlighted the anti‐aging potential of morusin. Thus, this study aimed to explore the therapeutic potential of morusin in CAVD. Cellular experiments reveal that morusin effectively suppresses cellular senescence and cause a shift toward osteogenic differentiation of VICs in vitro. Mechanistically, morusin activate the Nrf2‐mediated antiaging signaling pathway by downregulating CCND1 expression and aiding Keap1 degradation through Trim 25. This activation lead to the upregulated expression of antioxidant genes, thus reducing reactive oxygen species production and thereby preventing VIC osteogenic differentiation. In vivo experiments in ApoE−/− mice on a high‐fat Western diet demonstrate the positive effect of morusin in mitigating aortic valve calcification. These findings emphasize the antiaging properties of morusin and its potential as a therapeutic agent for CAVD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There are no guidelines on the surgical management for ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction. The present study aims to assess the long‐term survival of these patients treated with two different surgical techniques, coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and heart transplantation (HTx). Methods: This retrospective study included 218 ICM patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤35% who underwent CABG (n = 106) and HTx (n = 112) from 2011 to 2021 in a single center. After propensity adjustment analysis each group consisted of 51 patients. Clinical characteristics were evaluated for all‐cause follow‐up mortality by the Cox proportional hazards regression model. A risk prediction model was generated from multivariable‐adjusted Cox regression analysis and applied to stratify patients with different clinical risks. The long‐term survival was estimated by Kaplan–Meier analysis for different surgery groups. Results: Long‐term survival was comparable between CABG and HTx groups. After being stratified into different risk subgroups according to risk predictors, the HTx group exhibited superior survival outcomes compared to the CABG group among the high‐risk patients (67.8% vs 44.4%, 64.1% vs 38.9%, and 64.1% vs 33.3%, p = 0.047) at 12, 36, and 60 months respectively, while the survival was comparable between HTx and CABG groups among low‐risk patients (87.0% vs 97.0%, 82.4% vs 97.0%, and 70.2% vs 91.6%, p = 0.11) at 12, 36, and 60 months respectively in the PSM cohort. Conclusion: Long‐term survival in ICM patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction who received CABG or HTx was comparable in general. Nonetheless, a favorable outcome of HTx surgery compared to CABG was observed among high‐risk patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A retrospective cohort study was conducted to collect the data of pregnant women who received hospital delivery in Hangzhou Women's Hospital from January 2018 to December 2020, and who participated in the second trimester (15–20+6 weeks) of free beta human chorionic gonadotropin (free β-hCG). And the study was conducted to explore the relationship between maternal serum free β-hCG and adverse pregnancy outcomes (APO). Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 1,978 women in the elevated maternal serum free β-hCG group (free β-hCG ≥ 2.50 multiples of the median, MoM) and 20,767 women in the normal group (0.25 MoM ≤ free β-hCG < 2.50 MoM) from a total of 22,745 singleton pregnancies, and modified Poisson regression analysis was used to calculate risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of the two groups. Results: The gravidity and parity in the elevated free β-hCG group were lower, and the differences between the groups were statistically significant (all, P < 0.05). The risks of polyhydramnios, preeclampsia, and hyperlipidemia, were increased in women with elevated free β-hCG levels (RRs: 1.996, 95% CI: 1.322–3.014; 1.469, 95% CI: 1.130–1.911 and 1.257, 95% CI: 1.029–1.535, respectively, all P < 0.05), intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and female infants were also likely to happen (RRs = 1.641, 95% CI: 1.103–2.443 and 1.101, 95% CI: 1.011–1.198, both P < 0.05). Additionally, there was an association between elevated AFP and free β-hCG levels in second-trimester (RR = 1.211, 95% CI: 1.121–1.307, P < 0.001). Conclusions: APOs, such as polyhydramnios, preeclampsia, and hyperlipidemia, were increased risks of elevated free β-hCG levels, IUGR and female infants were also likely to happen. Furthermore, there was an association between elevated AFP levels and elevated free β-hCG levels in second-trimester. We recommend prenatal monitoring according to the elevated maternal serum free β-hCG level and the occurrence of APO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aims to explore the influence of transient pressure fluctuation inside high-speed trains passing throught tunnels on the fetal growth of Sprague – Dawley (SD) rats. A pressure variation simulation system was designed and exposure experiments were performed on SD rats. Forty-eight SD rats are divided into two control groups and two experimental groups, and are then exposed to transient pressure alternation (−1200 Pa ~1200 Pa) from gestation day 0 to gestation day 5 (GD 0–5). Fetal growth and development indicators on GD12 and GD18 between experimental and control groups were compared. Statistical results showed that, compared to the control group, the key indicators in the experimental group, including placental weight, placental diameter, fetal weight, and crown-to-rump length have decreased by 4.77%, 3.38%, 6.20%, and 3.75% respectively on GD18. The findings imply that the pressure fluctuation environment of high-speed trains has potential effects on the fetal growth of SD rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel split-type air conditioning system is introduced to balance usability and portability. Unlike conventional split-type systems, where the compressor is typically placed outside, this system situates the compressor within the indoor unit, which may expose users to compressor noise. There are prominent peaks in the compressor noise spectrum, particularly at the compressor operating frequency and its harmonics, notably the second and third harmonics. The research presents a multilayered acoustic enclosure specifically designed for air conditioning compressors to address this issue without modifying the compressor or indoor unit casing. In order to get better sound insulation performance, a response surface methodology (RSM) is applied to optimize the thickness ratio, open area ratio, and open area height of the acoustic enclosure with predefined thickness. In addition, topological optimization is employed to strengthen weak areas of the acoustic enclosure. Then, experimental trials using the proposed acoustic enclosure are conducted in a semianechoic chamber. Results demonstrate significant reductions in noise levels, including 7.99 dB(A), 5.69 dB(A), and 5.19 dB(A) reductions in the fundamental frequency, second harmonic, and third harmonic noise of the compressor's operating frequency, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Left bundle branch block (LBBB) and atrial fibrillation (AF) are commonly coexisting conditions. The impact of LBBB on catheter ablation of AF has not been well determined. This study aims to explore the long‐term outcomes of patients with AF and LBBB after catheter ablation. Methods: Forty‐two patients with LBBB of 11,752 patients who underwent catheter ablation of AF from 2011 to 2020 were enrolled as LBBB group. After propensity score matching in a 1:4 ratio, 168 AF patients without LBBB were enrolled as non‐LBBB group. Late recurrence and a composite endpoint of stroke, all‐cause mortality, and cardiovascular hospitalization were compared between the two groups. Results: Late recurrence rate was significantly higher in the LBBB group than that in the non‐LBBB group (54.8% vs. 31.5%, p =.034). Multivariate analysis showed that LBBB was an independent risk factor for late recurrence after catheter ablation of AF (hazard ratio [HR] 2.19, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.09–4.40, p =.031). LBBB group was also associated with a significantly higher incidence of the composite endpoint (21.4% vs. 6.5%, HR 3.98, 95% CI 1.64–9.64, p =.002). Conclusions: LBBB was associated with a higher risk for late recurrence and a higher incidence of composite endpoint in the patients underwent catheter ablation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regarding a novel and low-carbon composite pile, the MgO-carbonated composite pile (MCP) is formed by a pervious concrete pile (inner core) at the center of a deep magnesia (MgO) mixing column (outer core) subjected to forced carbonation. The shaft resistance of the MCP is primarily governed by the interface of pervious concrete–carbonated soil. Understanding the interface's shear behavior and strength is crucial for the design and safety assessment of the MCP. In this paper, a series of direct shear tests were conducted to analyze the shear behaviors of the pervious concrete–carbonated soil interface. The aim was to evaluate the impact of key influence factors such as carbonation time, MgO content, and initial water content on the interface friction capacity. Furthermore, a practical prediction model for interface shear strength was proposed, taking into account the aforementioned factors. The test results revealed that the peak shear strength of the specimen under 12 h of carbonation time reached 508 kPa, representing a 94% increase compared to the specimens without forced carbonation. The curves of shear stress versus tangential displacement of the inner–outer cores interface exhibited both strain-hardening and -softening behaviors. The proposed linear model exhibited excellent predictive accuracy for interface shear strength, with a regression coefficient exceeding 0.8. Based on multiple linear analysis, MgO content emerged as the most significant factor affecting the interface shear strength of the MCP, followed by vertical effective stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The carbonate chemistry in river-dominated marginal seas is highly heterogeneous, and there is ongoing debate regarding the definition of atmospheric CO 2 source or sink. On this basis, we investigated the carbonate chemistry and air-sea CO 2 fluxes in a hotspot estuarine area: the Changjiang Estuary during winter and summer. The spatial characteristics of the carbonate system were influenced by water mixing of three end-members in winter, including the Changjiang freshwater with low total alkalinity (TA) concentration, the less saline Yellow Sea Surface Water with high TA, and the saline East China Sea (ECS) offshore water with moderate TA. While in summer with increased river discharge, the carbonate system was regulated by simplified two end-member mixing between the Changjiang freshwater and the ECS offshore water. By performing the end-member mixing model on DIC variations in the river plume region, significant biological addition of DIC was found in winter with an estimation of −120 ± 113 μmol kg−1 caused by wintertime organic matter remineralization from terrestrial source. While this biological addition of DIC shifted to DIC removal due to biological production in summer supported by the increased nutrient loading from Changjiang River. The p CO 2 dynamics in the river plume and the ECS offshore were both subjected to physical mixing of freshwater and seawater, whether in winter and summer. In the inner estuary without horizontal mixing, the p CO 2 dynamics were mainly influenced by biological uptake in winter and temperature in summer. The inner estuary, the river plume, and the ECS offshore were sources of atmospheric CO 2 , with their contributions varying seasonally. The Changjiang runoff enhanced the inner estuary's role as a CO 2 source in summer, while intensive biological uptake reduced the river plume's contribution. [Display omitted] • Mixing of end-members drove the variation of carbonate system among seasons. • Winter biological DIC addition and summer DIC removal occurred in the rive plume. • The important role of freshwater inputs in CO 2 emissions from the Changjiang estuary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Real-world datasets frequently have an imbalanced class distribution, which significantly degrades classification performance. However, some studies have suggested that the adverse effects of class imbalance occur only when datasets have other intrinsic characteristics (such as class overlap, noise, and data scarcity). Noise and class overlap have the greatest effect. To deal with other intrinsic characteristics that affect classification performance in a multi-class environment, such as class overlap, noise, and data scarcity, we propose a method that can directly handle multi-class overlapping data, called the membership-based multi-class resampling and cleaning (MC-MBRC) algorithm. The proposed method divides samples into safe, overlapping, and noisy areas based on their membership degrees, and then according to the influence of the samples in each area on classification performance, it performs various operations such as noise removal, interpolation oversampling, and energy-based cleaning of the overlapping region. An extensive comparison using various datasets shows that, compared with state-of-the-art methods, the proposed method makes significant statistical improvements in different classification performance metrics and is robust to data containing class overlap and label noise. Furthermore, for datasets that do not have complex intrinsic features, MC -MBRC will not significantly degrade classification performance. • A resampling cleaning method is proposed for multi-class imbalanced overlapping data. • MC-MBRC divides samples by membership, handling multi-class data directly. • Method remains stable with class overlap, noise, and data scarcity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractCurrent numerical research on snow accumulation on bogies often simplifies train models as 1.5 cars or 3 cars, and there is less research on long marshalling trains with real bogies. In this article, based on the Euler–Lagrange method, the airflow structure and snow accumulation characteristics in the bogie area of an 8-car high-speed train (HST) are studied by numerical simulation. The results show that the airflow velocity and snow distribution concentration inside the bogie cabin vary along the flow direction. The downstream bogie cabin has a lower airflow speed, spatial snow particle concentration, and components snow accumulation. Because of the bogie cabin cover structure, the main airflow direction above the first and second bogie cabin is different, resulting in higher snow concentration and range on the windward side of the first bogie. There is a significant difference in snow accumulation characteristics between powered and nonpowered bogies. The powered bogie gearbox is directly affected by the airflow carrying snow particles, leading to severe snow accumulation on the windward side. This study provides a research foundation and engineering guidance for the snow protection strategy of HST bogies and is important for improving the comfort and safety of HSTs on snow-covered rails. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the sliding grid method is used to simulate a 350 km/h high-speed train passing through a 350 m standard single-line tunnel. The cross-sectional pressure distribution ahead of the train is investigated, the three-dimensional characteristics and propagation mechanism of pressure waves are described based on iso-pressure surfaces, and a newly accurate pressure sensor layout is proposed. The results show that the farther the cross-section is from the train, the smaller the cross-sectional pressure difference is. Influenced by the shape of the train nose and tunnel cross-section, the pressure waves are not simple planar waves, but spherical waves that vary in complexity over the propagation process. As the pressure difference of the 16.6 m cross-section before the train is within 1 Pa, the pressure waves behind this cross-section are defined as planar waves. Besides, the pressure peak-to-peak value difference between the wall and construction clearance reaches 13% at 70–90 m cross-sections, so the pressure sensors should be placed on the surface of the appurtenances rather than on the tunnel wall. In summary, this study is significant for understanding the formation and transmission mechanisms of pressure waves and guiding the scientific layout of pressure sensors in tunnels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Atrial esophageal fistula (AEF) is a lethal complication that can occur post atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation. Esophageal injury (EI) is likely to be the initial lesion leading to AEF. Endoscopic examination is the gold standard for a diagnosis of EI but extensive endoscopic screening is invasive and costly. This study was conducted to determine whether fecal calprotectin (Fcal), a marker of inflammation throughout the intestinal tract, may be associated with the existence of esophageal injury. Methods: This diagnostic study was conducted in a cohort of 166 patients with symptomatic AF undergoing radiofrequency catheter ablation from May 2020 to June 2021. Fcal tests were performed 1–7 days after ablation. All patients underwent endoscopic ultrasonography 1 or 2 days after ablation. Results: The levels of Fcal were significantly different between the EI and non‐EI groups (404.9 µg/g (IQR 129.6–723.6) vs. 40.4 µg/g (IQR 15.0–246.2), p <.001). Analysis of ROC curves revealed that a Fcal level of 125 µg/g might be the optimal cut‐off value for a diagnosis of EI, giving a 78.8% sensitivity and a 65.4% specificity. The negative predictive value of Fcal was 100% for ulcerated EI. Conclusions: The level of Fcal is associated with EI post AF catheter ablation. 125 µg/g might be the optimal cut‐off value for a diagnosis of EI. Negative Fcal could predict the absence of ulcerated EI, which could be considered a precursor to AEF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tumor metastasis is a significant contributor to the mortality of cancer patients. Specifically, current conventional treatments are unable to achieve complete remission of brain metastasis. This is due to the unique pathological environment of brain metastasis, which differs significantly from peripheral metastasis. Brain metastasis is characterized by high tumor mutation rates and a complex microenvironment with immunosuppression. Additionally, the presence of blood-brain barrier (BBB)/blood tumor barrier (BTB) restricts drug leakage into the brain. Therefore, it is crucial to take account of the specific characteristics of brain metastasis when developing new therapeutic strategies. Nanomaterials offer promising opportunities for targeted therapies in treating brain metastasis. They can be tailored and customized based on specific pathological features and incorporate various treatment approaches, which makes them advantageous in advancing therapeutic strategies for brain metastasis. This review provides an overview of current clinical treatment options for patients with brain metastasis. It also explores the roles and changes that different cells within the complex microenvironment play during tumor spread. Furthermore, it highlights the use of nanomaterials in current brain treatment approaches. [Display omitted] • The unique pathological environment of brain metastases limits clinical outcomes. • Different cell types play different roles and change during the progression of BM. • NMs can be customized to specific pathological features and thus offer significant advantages in BM treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Frequency diverse array (FDA) multiple-input multiple-out (MIMO) radar has an inherent higher-dimensional data structure that can be exploited in temporal, spatial, and range-dependent dimensions for space–time-range adaptive processing (STRAP). This paper addresses the problem of tensor filters in application to space–time-range clutter suppression for FDA-MIMO radar. The characteristics of space–time-range clutter are discussed to establish the multidimensional signal models. FDA-MIMO radar can divide the secondary range cell within the range resolution cell of MIMO radar when they have the same matching filter bandwidth in the receive channel. Specifically, the target-free covariance information can be estimated from more secondary training cells for FDA-MIMO radar. According to the discussed properties of space–time-range clutter, namely secondary clutter rings, clutter degrees of freedom (DOFs), and the range-dimensional non-stationary characteristic, a tensor-based STRAP approach with range compensation is proposed to suppress clutter for FDA-MIMO radar. Numerical results verify the mentioned clutter characteristics and illustrate the importance of the samples number and range compensation operation for the proposed tensor filter. Finally, the STRAP performance benefits of FDA-MIMO radar over MIMO radar are discussed by simulations. • For the same bandwidth, FDA-MIMO radar can divide more secondary range cells within one range cell than MIMO radar. • The space–time-range clutter of FDA-MIMO radar has the range-dependent non-stationary property. • The data cube obtained in array dimension, pulse dimension and range dimension can be directly processed by tensor methods. • The tensor-based filter utilizing range compensation can effectively suppress clutter for FDA-MIMO radar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The reduction of [IrCl 6 ]2− by aliphatic hydrazides was studied over a wide pH range. • Observed second-order rate constant vs. pH profiles were established. • Reaction mechanism was suggested involving hydrazinyl radicals. • Rate constants of the rate-determining steps and dissociation constants were acquired. • Aryl hydrazides are more reactive than aliphatic ones towards the reduction of Ir(IV). Reduction of a well-known single electron oxidant [IrCl 6 ]2– by aliphatic hydrazides, viz. formic hydrazide, acethydrazide and butyrohydrazide, was investigated by use of several techniques including 1H NMR and rapid scan spectroscopies. It was demonstrated that the redox reactions exclusively follow second-order kinetics over a wide pH range; the observed second-order rate constants k ' versus pH profiles have been established. When the features revealed by the rapid scan spectra, the reaction stoichiometry and the oxidation products were considered together, a reaction mechanism was proposed involving three parallel rate-determining steps in which [IrCl 6 ]2– reacted with all the three protolytic forms of the hydrazides. Rate constants of the rate-determining steps and the dissociation constants of hydrazides at 25.0 °C and 1.0 M ionic strength were derived from the kinetic data. Activation parameters were determined for the reactions of [IrCl 6 ]2– with the neutral forms of the hydrazides, and an outer-sphere electron transfer mode was implied. The reactivity of each protolytic form of the hydrazides was elucidated and its distribution versus pH was calculated. The reactivity of the protolytic forms was compared with that of the corresponding forms of aryl hydrazides, revealing that both the neutral and enolate forms of aliphatic hydrazides are less reactive than those of the aryl hydrazides towards reduction of [IrCl 6 ]2–. It was concluded that aryl hydrazides are more important than aliphatic ones in the development of new hydrazide-based antioxidants in the future. Additionally, the protolysis equilibria of these aliphatic hydrazides in aqueous solution and their redox properties have been characterized and the dissociation constants in the case of butyrohydrazide are reported for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endometriosis (EMs) is characterized by inflammatory lesions, dysmenorrhea, infertility, and chronic pelvic pain. Single-target medications often fail to provide systemic therapeutic results owing to the complex mechanism underlying endometriosis. Although traditional Chinese medicines—such as Juan-Tong-Yin (JTY)—have shown promising results, their mechanisms of action remain largely unknown. To elucidate the therapeutic mechanism of JTY in EMs, focusing on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-induced autophagy. The major components of JTY were detected using high-performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (HPLC–MS). The potential mechanism of JTY in EMs treatment was predicted using network pharmacological analysis. Finally, the pathogenesis of EMs was validated in a clinical case-control study and the molecular mechanism of JTY was validated in vitro using endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). In total, 241 compounds were analyzed and identified from JTY using UPLC–MS. Network pharmacology revealed 288 targets between the JTY components and EMs. Results of the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Ontology (GO) analyses indicated that regulating autophagy, migration, apoptosis, and inflammation were the key mechanisms of JTY in treating EMs. Meanwhile, we found that protein kinase R-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK), Beclin-1, and microtubule-associated protein light chain 3 B (LC3B) expressions were lower in endometria of patients with EMs than in those with normal eutopic endometria (p < 0.05). Additionally, during in vitro experiments, treatment with 20% JTY-containing serum significantly suppressed ESC proliferation, achieving optimal effects after 48 h. Electron microscopy revealed significantly increased autophagy flux in the JTY group compared with the control group. Moreover, JTY treatment significantly reduced the migratory and invasive abilities of ESCs and upregulated protein expression of PERK, eukaryotic initiation factor 2α (eIF2α)/phospho-eukaryotic initiation factor 2α (p-eIF2α), activating Transcription Factor-4 (ATF4), Beclin-1, and LC3BII/I, while subsequently downregulating NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3 (NLRP3) and interleukin 18 (IL-18) expression. However, administration of GSK2656157—a highly selective PERK inhibitor—reversed these changes. JTY ameliorates EMs by activating PERK associated with unfolded protein reaction, enhancing cell ER stress and autophagy, improving the inflammatory microenvironment, and decreasing the migration and invasion of ESCs. [Display omitted] • We examined the therapeutic mechanism of Juan-Tong-Yin in endometriosis. • Juan-Tong-Yin suppressed endometrial cell proliferation. • Juan-Tong-Yin increased autophagy in endometrial stromal cells. • Juan-Tong-Yin ameliorates endometriosis by activating the unfolded protein reaction triggered endoplasmic reticulum stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Effects of EF on seed germination, growth and physiology of plant were summarized. • The response of positive physiological and resistance to EF was discussed. • Opportunity of interaction, regulation and application for EKAP system are proposed. With the electrokinetic assisted plant (EKAP) systems attracted extensive attention and the prevalence of soil particle interface electric fields, this review gathered and analyzed about effect characteristics and response of electric fields on plant to deepen the understanding of electric field-plant interactions mechanisms and clarify future research directions. Electric fields main affect the seed germination, growth, physiology and tolerance behavior of plant, and it is widely used in heavy metals, organic pollution remediation and agricultural cultivation. Electric fields can rapid break seed dormancy and increase seed germination by improving free to bound water ratio, enzyme activity, stored material hydrolytic and membrane permeability of seed. Plant response to electric fields is double-edged. Electric fields regulate positive physiological like photosynthesis, secondary active substances and cell structure to promote plant growth, yield and pollutants purification. But excessive electric field effects can also adversely affect plants, which are alleviated by enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity, ascorbic acid cycle and osmoregulation. The electric field application strategies, electrical response molecular mechanisms of plants, and regulation mechanisms of the plant key substances synthesis and accumulation under electric field need to be further researched to promote the EKAP application in breeding, environmental protection and agricultural cultivation. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Develop a rapid Subdomain Uncertainty-guided Sampling (SUS) framework. • Derive the analytic expression for the standard deviation of feasibility function. • Propose a novel Optimized Feasibility Metric (OFM) for active learning. • Define Proportion of Misclassified Samples (PMS) as the stopping criterion. • Integrate OFM and PMS into SUS for time-variant reliability analysis. Active learning strategy combined with single-loop Kriging method has attracted much attention for Time-dependent Reliability Analysis (TRA). Large sample pool across all time instants is required to comprehensively cover the failure surface. Identifying training samples with most existing methods requires assessing the response of the entire sample pool, leading to high time costs. Similarly, to assist in identifying critical sampling regions, evaluating failure probability with a large sample pool in each iteration is also time-consuming. Additionally, higher-order uncertainty information is typically ignored, impairing the sampling efficiency. To address these issues, a Subdomain Uncertainty-guided Kriging (SUK) Method is proposed. Stochastic processes are first equivalently converted to random variables. By simultaneously sampling random variables and time parameter, an equivalent sample pool with significantly reduced size is generated for adaptive sampling. With a concise subdomain uncertainty assessment function, critical sampling region, i.e. sensitive subdomain, is distinguished efficiently. By comprehensively considering both the expectation and standard deviation of feasibility function, a novel Optimized Feasibility Metric (OFM) is then proposed for active learning. The proportion of misclassified samples is analytically deduced as stopping criterion. Finally, comparison results on four examples demonstrate the good performances of the proposed subdomain uncertainty-guided Kriging method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Controversy persists regarding the treatment of immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN), thereby highlighting the demand for safer more effective therapeutic drugs. Although supplementary treatment using Yi-Shen-Hua-Shi (YSHS) granules has distinct advantages with respect to improving renal function in IgAN, a lack of clarity regarding the underlying mechanisms limits their clinical application. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the therapeutic mechanisms underlying the efficacy of YSHS granules in the treatment of IgAN. A rat model of IgAN was established based on lipopolysaccharide, carbon tetrachloride, and bovine serum albumin induction. In order to evaluate the effects of YSHS granules, we performed a range of techniques, including immunofluorescence assays, hematoxylin and eosin staining, and flow cytometry, to assess inflammation, immunity, and other relevant factors. Direct data-independent acquisition–mass spectrometry (DIA-MS) analysis and parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) were used for functional characterization and quantitative validation of differentially expressed proteins (DEPs), and Western blot analysis is used to identify downstream proteins associated with DEPs. Compared with the model group, the levels of proteinuria, urine red blood cells, serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, triglycerides, and pathological kidney damage were reduced in the YSHS group. A high dose of YSHS granules was found to raise the levels of CD8 T cells and reduce the CD4/CD8 ratio in the peripheral serum. To examine the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects YSHS granules, we performed direct DIA-MS analysis to identify proteins that were differentially expressed among the model, YSHS, and control groups. A total of 29 proteins were identified as being commonly expressed in all three groups. Further KEGG and protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis revealed that YSHS granules can contribute to the regulation of N -glycosylation-associated proteins, such as ALG3 and STT3A, in rats with IgAN. Detected changes in the expression of ALG3 and STT3A were consistent with the PRM results. We also established that the administration of YSHS granules can contribute to regulation of the ALG3-associated PPAR-γ/NF-κB signaling pathway. Our findings in this study provide evidence to indicate the efficacy of YSHS granules in the treatment of IgAN, the putative underlying mechanisms of which involve the modulation of N-glycosylation, mediated via the PPAR-γ/NF-κB pathway. A detailed flow chart of the study design. The effects of YSHS granules on immune disorders, inflammatory injury, and metabolic disorders in IgAN rats were assessed using a rat model in which IgAN was induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), and bovine serum albumin (BSA). To investigate the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of YSHS granules, we performed direct data-independent acquisition mass spectrometry (DIA-MS) analysis. Further Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes and protein–protein interaction network analysis indicated that YSHS granules regulate N-glycosylation-associated proteins, including ALG3 and STT3A, in rats with IgAN. On the basis of Western blot analysis, we demonstrated that YSHS granules regulate the ALG3-associated PPAR-γ/NF-κB signaling pathway. [Display omitted] • YSHS granule improves IgAN renal function but mechanism unknown. • Proteomic data reveals 29 targets and N-glycosylation in YSHS against IgAN. • ALG3, a key protein，regulates immune and inflammation related proteins. • YSHS granule regulates ALG3/PPAR-γ/NF-κB in the treatment of IgAN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a new type of Ba 2 La 8 (SiO 4) 6 O 2 : Sm3+ phosphor was synthesized by solid-phase reaction, and the hydrophobic agent was used to restrain the hydrolysis of silicate phosphor. The microstructure, optical properties and electroluminescence properties of the samples were systematically analyzed. The results show that the Ba 2 La 8 (SiO 4) 6 O 2 : x Sm3+ phosphors have a strong orange-red emission at 600 nm, which corresponds to the 6G 5/2 →6H 7/2 energy level transition of Sm3+ ions. The optimal luminescence intensity was achieved at the dopant concentration of 10 mol%. The prepared phosphor has good thermal stability, the luminescence intensity at 423 K is still 85% of that at 298 K, and the internal quantum efficiency (IQE) is 22.59%. The ultraviolet-visible-near-infrared (UV–VIS–NIR) spectrum and the density functional theory reveal that the Ba 2 La 8 (SiO 4) 6 O 2 host can provide an excellent band-gap environment for the luminescent center. In addition, the modified Ba 2 La 8 (SiO 4) 6 O 2 : 0.10Sm3+ phosphor showed excellent hydrophobicity and luminescent properties, with a contact angle of 140.315°, and the luminescent intensity remained 75% of the pre-modified level. The Ba 2 La 8 (SiO 4) 6 O 2 : Sm3+ phosphor has good dispersion in PVA solution and emits bright red light. The above properties indicate that Ba 2 La 8 (SiO 4) 6 O 2 : Sm3+ phosphor has excellent luminescence properties and has broad application prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The Si (001) substrates with a kind of special sub-nano streaky surface are etched at atomic resolution. • The sub-nano streaky surface is prepared by utilizing a special pattern of H 2 SO 4 residue and then etching with HF. • The Si (001) substrates with sub-nano streaky surface are proved to be very advantageous for III/V growth. • The generation of antiphase-boundaries at the very beginning of the GaAs growth is completely prevented. • This substrate can enhance the overall crystalline quality, for example, achieving low threading dislocation density. The Si (001) substrates with a kind of special sub-nano streaky surface were prepared and applied to high-quality growth of GaAs heteroepitaxial-layers. The morphology of each of them features a series of parallel but randomly intermittent streaks along a common fixed direction and individually with their own saw-tooth cross-sections. The lateral interval between any two adjacent streaks is bound to be in sub-nano scale and both the two side-facets of every cross-section sawtooth are {111} planes. It has been found that the direct growth of GaAs epilayers on this kind of substrates, especially on exactly (001) oriented ones, can not only completely prevent the antiphase boundaries (APBs) generation, but also significantly reduce the threading dislocation density (TDD). This advancement could be regarded as a nearly perfect solution to APBs elimination and, moreover, provides better basis for further TDD reduction in the preparation of III-V/Si epilayers and for relevant device fabrications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]