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In this work, a thermally tunable optical resonator operating in the visible wavelength range is reported, which consists of a bilayer structure composed of a thin silver layer and a dielectric coating of [Fe(HB(1,2,4‐triazol‐1‐yl)3)2] switchable spin‐crossover (SCO) molecules. White light is coupled to the resonant structure using a prism and the resulting resonance spectra are investigated as a function of the incident angle and temperature. Switching the SCO molecules from the low‐spin to the high‐spin state gives rise to a substantial blueshift of the resonances reaching up to 30 nm (associated with a reflectance modulation of up to 70%), which can be linked, through transfer‐matrix simulations, to the variation of the optical thickness of the molecular layer. Interestingly, the study demonstrated that the large thermal tunability of the device also gives rise to a photothermal nonlinearity, which can be leveraged for achieving optical limiting applications. Overall, through the present study, it is shown that molecular SCO nanomaterials can be superior to commonly used thermo‐optical switches and well‐established optical phase‐change materials for applications requiring high broadband optical transparency in the visible spectral domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To determine the carrier frequency of, and evaluate a carrier screening program for, spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) in reproductive age women in Shenzhen area. Methods: A staged screening procedure was used to perform carrier screening for SMA in 22,913 Chinese reproductive age women between 2019 and 2022 in Shenzhen area of China. First, the copy number of exon 7 in the SMN1 gene were detected in women of reproductive age using real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. If SMA carriers were detected, their spouses were then recommended to test. Prenatal diagnosis was carried out in couples who were both carriers. Results: A total of 389 women were found to be SMA carriers (1.70%, 95% CI: 1.53%–1.87%), indicating the carrier prevalence was approximately 1:59. Despite the proportion of nonpregnant women increased from 37.96% in 2019 to 58.18% in 2022 (p < 0.05) among the 22,913 reproductive age women, the recall rate of spouses was still not high (62.21%, 95% CI: 57.39%–67.03%). Eight partners were found to be SMA carriers and two fetuses were determined to have SMA with no copies of the SMN1 gene. Conclusion: Although the acceptability and awareness of SMA carrier screening in Chinese population has increased in recent years, it still fails to reach the ideal expectation. Our experience may provide a basis for and facilitate the popularization of SMA carrier screening in Shenzhen area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adsorption is an effective technology widely used in the removal of radioactive and other heavy metal ions, the adsorbent plays critical role and development of novel adsorbents is being in urgent demand. In this work, phytic acid (PA)‐modified melamine sponge (MS) adsorbent MS@PDA@PA is prepared conveniently in green solvent water. A wide spectrum of metal ions including radioactive uranyl and transition heavy metal ions can be effectively adsorbed by the MS@PDA@PA due to non‐selectivity of phosphoric acid groups in PA. Different factors including pH of aqueous solution, contact time, and initial concentration of ions on the effect of adsorption of the resultant materials are investigated in detail, and the maximum adsorption capacities for U(VI), Pb(II), Cu(II), Cr(III) are 166.7, 168.5, 114.3, and 101.0 mg g−1 respectively at 298 K. It is notable that the MS@PDA@PA is nonflammable due to employment of MS as frame material, and the thermal stability is even improved after incorporation of PA, greatly reduce the risk of the adsorbent in the processes of storage and usage. The green yet simple synthesis and fire resistance of MS@PDA@PA make it a competitive material for practical treatment of wastewater consisting of toxic metal ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dexamethasone (Dex) is reported to cause bone growth retardation in children, which is associated with the increased apoptosis and decreased proliferation of growth plate chondrocytes. Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) plays an important role in chondrocyte function and homeostasis. Thus, we further explored the regulatory mechanism of SIRT1 in Dex‐induced growth plate chondrocyte dysfunction. SIRT1 expression was detected in Dex‐treated growth plate chondrocytes using RT‐qPCR and western blot assay. The modulation of SIRT1 on SOX2 expression was evaluated. Besides, we identified that SIRT1 was targeted by miR‐211‐5p using TargetScan and RNA pull‐down assay. A loss‐of‐function assay was performed to evaluate the effects of miR‐211‐5p on Dex‐induced growth plate chondrocyte dysfunction in vitro and in vivo. We found that SIRT1 was downregulated in Dex‐treated growth plate chondrocytes. The expression of SOX2 was upregulated by overexpression SIRT1. Meanwhile, downregulation of SOX2 weakened the positive function of SIRT1 overexpression on Dex‐induced growth plate chondrocytes dysfunction. Subsequently, we confirmed that SIRT1 was targeted by miR‐211‐5p. MiR‐211‐5p inhibitor increased the expression levels of SIRT1 and SOX2, and restored the Dex‐treated growth plate chondrocyte function. Animal assays further demonstrated that the effects of miR‐211‐5p on the growth plate chondrogenesis. In conclusion, our data suggest that SIRT1 exerts a protective effect on growth plate chondrocyte under Dex stimulation. MiR‐211‐5p/SIRT1/SOX2 axis regulates the process of Dex‐inhibited growth plate chondrogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inspired by simulating duct thermal processing of novel functional polymers, a novel mathematical model is developed for buoyancy‐driven heat transfer in non‐Newtonian Williamson fluid flow in a vertical parallel plate duct containing a permeable medium, under mutually orthogonal electrical and magnetic fields. The momentum equation features electrical and magnetic body force terms, and the Darcy–Brinkman–Forchheimer mode is used for non‐Darcy effects. The energy balance equation includes thermal buoyancy (natural convection body force) and a modified viscous dissipation term. The conservation equations with associated boundary conditions are reframed into a system of coupled non‐linear ordinary differential equations via appropriate similarity transformations. The emerging dimensionless boundary value problem is then solved with a differential transform method (DTM). Validation of DTM solutions with the bvp4c MATLAB collocation solver is included. The influence of key parameters on velocity, temperature and average Nusselt number, are computed and illustrated graphically. With elevation in Weissenberg (non‐Newtonian) number, velocity and temperature are reduced. Velocity is suppressed with increasing non‐Darcian parameter (Forchheimer effect) whereas it is enhanced with increment in buoyancy convection parameter. With increasing Forchheimer, Darcy number and Hartmann number, the average Nusselt number is boosted whereas it is decreased with higher values of buoyancy convection parameter, Brinkman number and Weissenberg number. A strong reduction in temperature is computed with increment in ratio of Joule electrical heating to heat conduction parameter. DTM is shown to be an exceptionally accurate and versatile approach for simulating non‐Newtonian electromagnetohydrodynamic transport in ducts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel matrix converter‐based topology to be applied in smart transformers (STs) is proposed, based on the concept of multiple modularity. To replace the conventional ST topology obtained by H‐bridge modules including DC electrolytic capacitors, the proposed ST topology uses two kinds of matrix modules to provide flexibility in the AC–AC structures to build complex ST. Fewer power semiconductor devices are used in each module to reduce the costs. The AC–AC matrix converters and the high‐frequency transformers eliminate electrolytic capacitors, enhancing ST reliability and power density. The modulation method for the proposed ST structure needs suited carrier waves and switching processes. The half‐Venturini modulation method shows several switching sequences leading to voltage imbalances in the input film capacitor divider. Therefore, the paper investigates and analyses the influence of switching sequences on the capacitor voltages in detail. The results show that the different switching sequences will cause different currents flowing into capacitors, leading to different results in capacitor voltages. Based on the analysis, proper modulations are recommended for the proposed topology. In order to verify the feasibility of the proposed topology as well as the correctness of the analysis on modulations, simulations and hardware‐in‐loop experiments are carried out. It is found that the modularity concept is feasible, and a suitable modulation sequence was developed to balance the input capacitors voltages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose a hybrid full duplex passive optical network with fusion of wavelength‐division‐multiplexing and orthogonal frequency‐division multiplexing (WDM‐OFDM) for a radio‐over‐fiber (RoF) system application. The key of the system is a tunable optical frequency comb (OFC) embedded cascading modulators and a parameter mixer. Moreover, 23 frequency components with 0.6 dB flatness generated by the OFC are used as light sources for each WDM channel. We utilize a 7.5 GHz OFDM wired signal and a 12.5 GHz OFDM wireless signal for downstream transmission and 10 Gb/s OOK (on–off keyed) signals for upstream traffic. Using polarization multiplexing technique, we extract a central optical carrier to bear the upstream signal so that no excess optical source is introduced into the ONU. Thus, the intricacy and costs of system are diminished. Moreover, successful transmission has been demonstrated since the bit error rates of the downstream and upstream signals are always under the adopted forward error correction limit. Furthermore, the proposed system can enhance power budget and reduce cost, which has a promising prospect for future wireless communication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rate of serious infection (1.0% in AS and 1.8% in PsA) and candida infection (0.4% in AS and 0.9% in PsA) remained stable at the fifth year. Ixekizumab, an interleukin-17A specific monoclonal antibody, for the treatment of biologic-naive patients with active psoriatic arthritis: results from the 24-week randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled and active (adalimumab)-controlled period of the phase III trial SPIRIT-P1. Of special interest, candida infections (genital candidiasis, oral candidiasis and candida thrush infection) were reported. The efficacy of IL-17 inhibitor (IL-17i) in inflammatory arthritis (IA) including ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) has been ascertained in large-scale clinical trials, while safety, especially infections, should be further addressed and paid more attention to by clinicians in long-term administration. [Extracted from the article]

To improve the performance of a 3.5 kW small H‐type vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT) with the airfoil of NACA0015, a design method for installing split flaps at the trailing edge of a blade is proposed. By solving the two‐dimensional URANS equations, the simulation of VAWTs is carried out. The influences of the length (10% c‐30% c), arrangement positions (90% c‐70% c), and deflection angles (10°‐30°) of the split flaps on the performance of VAWT are determined by orthogonal design when Reynolds number is 2 × 105 and 1 < TSR < 3. In accordance with the influence degrees of these parameters and adopting the maximum wind energy utilization ratio CPmax and the maximum efficient operating range Δλmax as research objectives, the optimum flap length is determined as 22% c, the optimum deflection angle is 10°, and the optimum arrangement position is 92% c. Further studies show that the CPmax is increased by 5.8% and its Δλmax is increased by 25.9% after installing split flaps. Meanwhile, split flaps can change the Kutta‐Joukowsky trailing edge boundary condition, which increases the flow circulation around the airfoil. Also, split flaps can increase the positive pressure difference in the upwind area and reduce the negative pressure difference in the downwind area, which significantly improves the aerodynamic performance of VAWTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fibrosis is the end stage of many chronic diseases, which results in organ function failure and high mortality. Mangiferin is a major constituent in mango and other 16 plants, and has been shown a variety of pharmacological effects, such as antioxidant, antibacterial, anti‐tumor, anti‐inflammation. The emerging evidence has shown that mangiferin can improve renal interstitial fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis, myocardial fibrosis and hepatic fibrosis through the inhibition of inflammation, oxidative stress and fibrogenesis effects, indicating that mangiferin is promising therapeutic choice for organ fibrosis. The aim of this review is to summarize the therapeutic effects of mangiferin on fibrosis of various organs and the underlying mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This article investigates the problem of distributed attitude tracking control for the leader‐follower spacecraft in the presence of the external disturbances, model uncertainties, and actuator faults. First, a novel fixed‐time observer is developed to estimate the angular velocity of the leader. In contrast to the existing finite‐time observer design methods, the settling time is independent of the initial conditions, and the upper bound of the angular acceleration of the leader is not required for each follower. To estimate and compensate the total uncertainties with finite‐time convergence, a fraction‐based adaptive scheme is designed. Based on the fixed‐time observer and the adaptive scheme, a continuous finite‐time distributed control law is developed such that the stability of the observer‐controller closed‐loop system is guaranteed. Numerical simulations are illustrated to demonstrate the performance of the control scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation efficiency to enhance simultaneous generation of radicals and non‐radicals is essential for removing new pollutants (NPs) in complex waters. However, achieving this with standard lattice‐structured heterogeneous catalysts remains challenging due to inefficient electron transfer. Here, CuCo2O4 properties are successfully tuned by controlling lattice distortion, enabling simultaneous PMS oxidation and reduction. Unlike the slow rate of electron transfer in heterogeneous metal catalysts with standard lattice structures, the highly active binary lattice distortion in CuCo2O4 alters the structure and electron distribution, exposes more Cu and Co sites, lowers the PMS adsorption barriers, and realizes the synergistic production of SO4•−/•OH), and 1O2. The k‐value for ciprofloxacin is as high as 17.83 min−1 M−1, 29.42 times higher than that with non‐binary lattice distortion. Additionally, the developed intermittent reactor consistently maintains a removal rate above 95% over five cycles in actual wastewater treatment scenarios. This work provides a new avenue for achieving the removal of new pollutants in complex water bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Inhibition of PDE5 improves synaptic plasticity and memory via enhancing cGMP expression, thus activating the cGMP/cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) signalling pathway. This study investigated the effects of a PDE5 inhibitor on scopolamine-induced cognitive dysfunction, using memory-related behavioural tests and biochemical assays.Experimental Approach: In mice were pretreated with PDE5 inhibitor, amnesia was induced by scopolamine. The learning and memory abilities of mice were tested using the Morris water maze test, the Y-maze test, the passive avoidance test and the novel object recognition test in sequence. Expression of memory-related bio-molecules and oxidative stress parameters in brain tissue were measured using Western blot and spectrophotometry respectively.Key Results: KJH-1002, a novel and potent inhibitor of PDE5 (IC50 0.059 ± 0.04 nmol·L-1 ), was synthesized. In the behavioural tests, it markedly improved the memory performance impaired by scopolamine, indicating a restoration of cognitive function in the mice. Moreover, KJH-1002 increased cGMP levels in the cortex and the scopolamine-reduced expression of phosphorylated CREB, Levels of ERK 1/2, Akt and brain-derived neurotrophic factor in the cortex and hippocampus were restored by KJH-1002 treatment. In addition, KJH-1002 administration increased the activities of SOD, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase, and decreased the level of malondialdehyde.Conclusion and Implications: KJH-1002 restored cognitive function in scopolamine-induced amnesia mice by activating the cGMP/CREB signalling pathway and attenuating oxidative stress. The beneficial effects of KJH-1002 on cognition indicate its potential as a therapeutic candidate for Alzheimer's disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Six chiral pesticides containing chiral sulfur/phosphorus atoms were separated by supercritical fluid chromatography with supercritical CO2 as the main mobile phase component. The effect of the chiral stationary phase, different type and concentration of modifiers, column temperature, and backpressure on the separation efficiency was investigated to obtain the appropriate separation condition. Five chiral pesticides (isofenphos‐methyl, isocarbophos, flufiprole, fipronil, and ethiprole) were baseline separated under experimental conditions, while isofenphos only obtained partial separation. The Chiralpak AD‐3 column showed a better chiral separation ability than others for chiral pesticides containing chiral sulfur/phosphorus atoms. When different modifiers at the same concentration were used, the retention factor of pesticides except flufiprole decreased in the order of isopropanol, ethanol, methanol; meanwhile, the retention factor of flufiprole increased in the order of isopropanol, ethanol, methanol. For a given modifier, the retention factor and resolution decreased on the whole with the increase of its concentration. The enantiomer separation of five chiral pesticides was an “enthalpy‐driven” process, and the separation factor decreased as the temperature increased. The backpressure of the mobile phase had little effect on the separation factor and resolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a degenerative disorder involving significant memory loss and other cognitive deficits, manifesting as a progression from normal cognitive functioning to mild cognitive impairment to AD. The sooner an accurate diagnosis of probable AD is made, the easier it is to manage symptoms and plan for future therapy. Functional neuroimaging stands to be a useful tool in achieving early diagnosis. Among the many neuroimaging modalities, positron emission tomography (PET) provides direct regional assessment of, among others, brain metabolism, cerebral blood flow, amyloid deposition—all quantities of interest in the characterization of AD. However, there are analytic challenges in identifying early indicators of AD from these high‐dimensional imaging data sets, and it is unclear whether early indicators of AD are more likely to emerge in localized patterns of brain activity or in patterns of correlation between distinct brain regions. Early PET‐based analyses of AD focused on alterations in metabolic activity at the voxel‐level or in anatomically defined regions of interest. Other approaches, including seed‐voxel and multivariate techniques, seek to characterize metabolic connectivity by identifying other regions in the brain with similar patterns of activity across subjects. We briefly review various neuroimaging statistical approaches applied to determine changes in metabolic activity or metabolic connectivity associated with AD. We then present an approach that provides a unified statistical framework for addressing both metabolic activity and connectivity. Specifically, we apply a Bayesian spatial hierarchical framework to longitudinal metabolic PET scans from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative. This article is categorized under:Statistical and Graphical Methods of Data Analysis > Analysis of High Dimensional DataStatistical Learning and Exploratory Methods of the Data Sciences > Modeling MethodsStatistical Models > Bayesian Models [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel broadband three‐input four‐output (3 × 4) Butler matrix (BM) without crossover is presented for the wider band operation. The proposed 3 × 4 BM is composed of three 3 dB branch‐line directional couplers, one T‐splitter power divider, and two 90° phase shifters. Unlike the traditional BM, the proposed BM network has successfully eliminated the crossover connection for simplifying the network, which operates in a wide operating range. For the validation of the design, a planar single‐layer 3 × 4 BM working at the frequency band of 1.69–2.69 GHz is designed, fabricated, and measured. The measurement result gives bandwidth up to 46% with return loss better than 14.3 dB at the full operating frequency band. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A unique general, large-scale, simple, and cost-effective strategy, i.e., foaming-assisted electrospinning, for fabricating various transition metal oxides into ultrafine nanoparticles (TMOs UNPs) that are uniformly embedded in hierarchically porous carbon nanofibers (HPCNFs) has been developed. Taking advantage of the strong repulsive forces of metal azides as the pore generator during carbonization, the formation of uniform TMOs UNPs with homogeneous distribution and HPCNFs is simultaneously implemented. The combination of uniform ultrasmall TMOs UNPs with homogeneous distribution and hierarchically porous carbon nanofibers with interconnected nanostructure can effectively avoid the aggregation, dissolution, and pulverization of TMOs, promote the rapid 3D transport of both Li ions and electrons throughout the whole electrode, and enhance the electrical conductivity and structural integrity of the electrode. As a result, when evaluated as binder-free anode materials in Li-ion batteries, they displayed extraordinary electrochemical properties with outstanding reversible capacity, excellent capacity retention, high Coulombic efficiency, good rate capability, and superior cycling performance at high rates. More importantly, the present work opens up a wide horizon for the fabrication of a wide range of ultrasmall metal/metal oxides distributed in 1D porous carbon structures, leading to advanced performance and enabling their great potential for promising large-scale applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new chiral reagent has been developed for generalized installation of pharmacophoric ( S)- or ( R)-2-(alkoxyphosphono)-1-amino-2,2-difluoroethyl group into organic compounds. The original synthetic application of this new reagent is exemplified by Friedel-Crafts reactions with indoles, which proceed efficiently with excellent diastereoselectivity to give enantiomerically pure products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rolling element bearings are among the most widely used and also vulnerable components in rotating machinery equipment. Recently, prognostics and health management of rolling element bearings is more and more attractive both in academics and industry. However, many studies have been focusing on the prognostic aspect of bearing prognostics and health management and few efforts have been performed in relation to the optimal degradation feature selection issue. For more effective and efficient remaining useful life predictions, three goodness metrics of correlation, monotonicity and robustness are defined and combined for automatically more relevant degradation feature selection in this paper. Effectiveness of the proposed method is verified by rolling element bearing degradation experiments. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT A novel coupling matrix synthesis method for dual-band bandpass filter is presented in this article. The output admittance poles and zeros of the single-band filter prototype are firstly obtained and then transformed into dual-band prototype. Then the coupling matrix with predefined topology is optimized according to these poles and zeroes directly. This method can be achieved with no need to construct the characteristic function of dual-band filter and reconfigure the coupling matrix. Symmetric and asymmetric dual-band bandpass filter coupling matrix synthesis has been carried out to illustrate and validate this method. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 58:603-606, 2016 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A ring resonator loaded with five open stubs is proposed for the design of dual‐band bandpass filters. To shrink the filter layout, a pair of loaded quarter‐wavelength stubs is utilised to produce the first passband. On the other hand, the introduced coupling between the quarter‐wavelength stubs and the ring resonator produced transmission zeros for enhancing the selectivity. Both bandwidth and central frequency ratio of the two passbands can be adjusted freely by the circuit parameters. Two coupling lines are added beside the resonator as feed‐lines to construct a filter with high selectivity and compact size. A filter at 1.57/2.45 GHz is designed, fabricated and measured for verification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT A compact microstrip lowpass filter (LPF) which consists of a meander line, a coupled line and two open stubs is proposed. The mechanism for reallocating filter transmission zeros and the design procedure are explained. The simulated and measured results demonstrate that this LPF provides compact size, low insertion loss, and wide stopband. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 57:367-371, 2015 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two incomplete bones referred to ankylosaur scapulocoracoid and humerus are described, which were discovered from the Early Cretaceous Jiufotang Formation of Dachengzi Town, Kazuo County, Liaoning Province. Ankylosaur dinosaurs have ever been found in the Lower Cretaceous Yixian, Fuxin and Sunjiawan Formations of western Liaoning. The occurrence of ankylosaurs within Jiufotang Formation improves our knowledge on the ankylosaur stratigraphic distribution. Based on the length of scapulocoracoid, the new dinosaur is estimated to exceed 6.0 meters long, representing the largest ankylosaur in western Liaoning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine strata in the Jianghan Plain area are widely distributed with a total depth of more than 8,000 m from the Upper Sinian to the Middle Triassic. Six reservoir caprock units, named Z-€2, €2-O, S, D-C, P and T1, can be identified with each epoch. The geology, stratigraphy, drilling, oil testing and other basic data as well as the measured inclusion and strontium isotope data in the study area are used in the analysis of the formation and evolution process of marine petroliferous reservoirs in the Jianghan Plain area. This study aims to provide a scientific basis for the further exploration of hydrocarbons in the Jianghan Plain and reduce the risks by analyzing the key factors for hydrocarbon accumulation in the marine strata. Our findings show that in the Lower Palaeozoic hydrocarbon reservoir, oil/gas migration and accumulation chiefly occurred in the early period of the Early Yanshanian, and the hydrocarbon reservoir was destroyed in the middle-late period of the Early Yanshanian. In the Lower Triassic-Carboniferous hydrocarbon reservoir, oil/gas migration and accumulation chiefly occurred in the Early Yanshanian, and the hydrocarbon reservoir suffered destruction from the Late Yanshanian to the Early Himalayanian. The preservation conditions of the marine strata in the Jianghan Plain area have been improved since the Late Himalayanian. However, because all source beds have missed the oil/gas generation fastigium and lost the capacity to generate secondary hydrocarbon, no reaccumulation of hydrocarbons can be detected in the study area's marine strata. No industrially exploitable oil/gas reservoir has been discovered in the marine strata of Jianghan Plain area since exploration began in 1958. This study confirms that petroliferous reservoirs in the marine strata have been completely destroyed, and that poor preservation conditions are the primary factor leading to unsuccessful hydrocarbon exploration. It is safely concluded that hydrocarbon exploration in the marine strata of the study area is quite risky. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under microwave irradiation and solvent-free conditions, rare-earth metal chlorides (RECl3) have been efficient catalysts for one-pot synthesis of quinoline derivatives to give products in good to excellent yields through the multi-component reactions of aldehydes, amines, and alkynes. The rare-earth metal chlorides can be recycled for six times without notable loss of catalytic activities. This new synthetic approach has prominent features of a short reaction time, high yields of products, operational simplicity, broad substrate scopes, environmentally friendly property and commercially available catalysts. It extends the applications of rare-earth metal compounds as catalysts in organic synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY This paper investigates the problems of L2 stability and H∞ control of switched homogeneous nonlinear systems. This paper gives that if a switched homogeneous nonlinear system with disturbance is internally homogeneously asymptotically stable, then it has a finite L2 gain, and if a switched homogeneous nonlinear system with disturbance and controls is homogeneously stabilizable under the zero disturbance condition, its H∞ control problem is solvable under some mild conditions, and a homogeneous solution is given. Then, via the semi-tensor product of matrices method, the aforementioned obtained results are transformed to linear-like forms, and the aforementioned obtained Hamilton-Jacobi-Isaacs inequality is transformed to a linear-like matrix inequality, which makes it feasible to compute the solutions by computer. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Engraftment failure and delays, likely due to diminished cord blood unit (CBU) potency, remain major barriers to the overall success of unrelated umbilical cord blood transplantation (UCBT). To address this problem, we developed and retrospectively validated a novel scoring system, the Cord Blood Apgar (CBA), which is predictive of engraftment after UCBT. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: In a single-center retrospective study, utilizing a database of 435 consecutive single cord myeloablative UCBTs performed between January 1, 2000, to December 31, 2008, precryopreservation and postthaw graft variables (total nucleated cell, CD34+, colony-forming units, mononuclear cell content, and volume) were initially correlated with neutrophil engraftment. Subsequently, based on the magnitude of hazard ratios (HRs) in univariate analysis, a weighted scoring system to predict CBU potency was developed using a randomly selected training data set and internally validated on the remaining data set. RESULTS: The CBA assigns transplanted CBUs three scores: a precryopreservation score (PCS), a postthaw score (PTS), and a composite score (CS), which incorporates the PCS and PTS values. CBA-PCS scores, which could be used for initial unit selection, were predictive of neutrophil (CBA-PCS ≥ 7.75 vs. <7.75, HR 3.5; p < 0.0001) engraftment. Likewise, CBA-PTS and CS scores were strongly predictive of Day 42 neutrophil engraftment (CBA-PTS ≥ 9.5 vs. <9.5, HR 3.16, p < 0.0001; CBA-CS ≥ 17.75 vs. <17.75, HR 4.01, p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: The CBA is strongly predictive of engraftment after UCBT and shows promise for optimizing screening of CBU donors for transplantation. In the future, a segment could be assayed for the PTS score providing data to apply the CS for final CBU selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel ultra‐wideband (UWB) bandpass filter with sharp rejection and a narrow notched band is presented. This filter is designed using a multiple‐mode resonator (MMR) which consists of a ring resonator and a stepped‐impedance stub. The MMR has six resonance frequencies and three transmission zeros (TZs). All three TZs are close to the resonance frequencies, thus creating sharp roll‐off and narrow notched bands. Different passband bandwidths and notched bands can be obtained by tuning the stepped‐impedance admittance ratios. The simulated and measured results demonstrate that this simple bandpass filter has 97.3 and 30.6 dB/GHz attenuation slope at the lower and upper transition bands, respectively. The 3 dB notched band is from 5.6 to 5.8 GHz with 10.3 dB insertion loss at 5.7 GHz. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing effective strategy to passivate surface defects in quantum dots (QDs) is critical to achieving high‐efficiency and long‐life perovskite light‐emitting diodes (LEDs). Here, the supramolecular interaction underpinning of organic‐inorganic components is exploited and a facile method is proposed to generate multiple‐hydrogen‐bonded supramolecular‐perovskite crystal structures on QD surfaces by introducing O‐Tolylbiguanide (O‐Tg) during QD synthesis, enabling bright, conductive, and water‐resistant CsPbI3 QDs. Compared with commonly used oleic acid and oleylamine ligands, the biguanide functional group in O‐Tg not only forms multiple hydrogen bond interactions with lead halide octahedra passivating both bridging‐ and terminal‐halogen ion defects, but also compatibly occupies the A‐site position stabilizing the crystal structure simultaneously. With fewer nonradiative defects and introduced hydrophobic benzene rings preventing eroding of polar molecules, CsPbI3 QDs exhibit remarkable photoluminescence quantum yields of 96%, and their film can be submerged in water for 30 h without degrading. The corresponding LEDs display a high external quantum efficiency (21.2%) and offer superior operational stability with a lifetime (T90) of 25 h at a constant current density as high as 50 mA cm−2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigated the dissolution and oxidation corrosion behaviors of Hastelloy exposed to static liquid lead‐bismuth eutectic (LBE) at 500°C with an oxygen concentration of 1 × 10−6 mass%. Hastelloy exhibited better LBE corrosion resistance than the Monel alloy. Both dissolution and oxidation corrosion were observed in Hastelloy, and the maximum LBE penetration depth and spinel layer thickness in the corroded sample after 4000 h of exposure reached 120 ± 36 and 21 ± 12 µm, respectively. Annealing twin boundaries provided favorable paths of accelerated LBE penetration into the matrix, resulting in selective leaching of Ni. Microstructural characterization revealed that the spinel layer formed between penetrated LBE and base metal slowed down the elemental interdiffusion, thereby retarding the dissolution rate. Volumetric changes induced by LBE penetration promoted the formation of stacking faults and dislocations, which could provide more channels for elemental diffusion, leading to the propagation of dissolution attack. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface modification of photocatalytic materials is a good choice for improving semiconductor activity. Simple surface modification strategy and abundant active site construction are the key factors to improve photocatalytic activity. Take NiAl‐LDH as the matrix, perform partial phosphating, and use the spatial confinement effect to generate highly dispersed Ni2P. Ni2P does not exist independently but on the 3D NiAl‐LDH's surface. The introduction of NiAl‐LDH‐P can improve the utilization of Zn0.5Cd0.5S on solar energy and speed up the transfer rate of photogenerated carriers. Ni2P makes the active sites of phosphide more abundant, and the unique electron distribution of phosphide is conducive to photon capture, thus accelerating the hydrogen precipitation rate in the composite photocatalyst. Partial phosphating retains the 3D framework of hydrotalcite. The well‐dispersed 0D to 3D S‐scheme heterojunction hybrid material is composed of three‐dimensional nano‐flowers and tiny nano‐particles alternately formed by countless nano‐sheets. The multi‐dimensional structured composite photocatalyst has abundant active sites, large specific surface area, and strong proton adsorption capacity, thus exhibiting more excellent photocatalytic hydrogen evolution performance. The maximum hydrogen production of the composite photocatalyst under 5 W LED simulated visible light for 5 h can reach 1982.43 μmol (39.64 mmol g−1 h−1) and the apparent quantum efficiency reached 6.22 % at 475 nm. The construction of the Zn0.5Cd0.5S/NiAl‐LDH‐P S‐scheme heterojunction changes the hydrogen evolution site from Zn0.5Cd0.5S to Ni2P, so that the conduction band position of the composite photocatalyst becomes higher, the reduction ability is enhanced, and the hydrogen evolution The site changed from Zn0.5Cd0.5S to Ni2P, which is more conducive to the generation of hydrogen, thereby improving the activity and stability of hydrogen production. The space design of 0D and 3D provides new thinking for the design of the closely contacted S‐scheme heterojunction photocatalytic. The application of surface modification strategies and the construction of abundant active sites point out the direction for further improving the composite photocatalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DNA methylation alterations play mechanistic roles in aging; however, the epigenetic regulators/mediators causally involved in renal aging remain elusive. Here, we report that natural and D‐galactose (D‐gal)‐induced aging kidneys display marked suppression of antiaging factor NRF2 (nuclear factor erythroid‐derived 2‐like 2) and KLOTHO, accompanied by upregulations of DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) 1/3a/3b and NRF2/KLOTHO gene promoter hypermethylations. Administration of a DNMT inhibitor SGI‐1072 effectively hypomethylated the promoters, derepressed NRF2/KLOTHO, and mitigated the structural and functional alterations of renal aging in D‐gal mice. Moreover, oleuropein (OLP), an olive‐derived polyphenol, also displayed similar epigenetic modulation and antiaging effects. OLP inhibited the epigenetic NRF2/KLOTHO suppressions in a gain of DNMT‐sensitive manner in cultured renal cells, demonstrating a strong DNA‐demethylating capacity. In NRF2 knockout and KLOTHO knockdown D‐gal mice, OLP exhibited reduced antiaging effects with KLOTHO displaying a prominent gene effect and effect size; consistently in KLOTHO knockdown mice, the antiaging effects of SGI‐1027 were largely abrogated. Therefore, the KLOTHO recovery is critical for the antiaging effects of DNA demethylation. Collectively, our data indicate that aberrant DNMT1/3a/3b elevations and the resultant suppression of antiaging factors contribute significantly to epigenetic renal aging, which might be targeted for epigenetic intervention by synthetic or natural DNA‐demethylating agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To overcome drought stress in soybean (Glycine max), it is strategically vital to improve drought resistance. Yet, the underlying molecular mechanisms responsible for drought resistance remain poorly defined. Here, we present comparative physiological and transcriptome analyses in seedlings of two contrasting genotypes, drought‐resistant (DR) L14 and drought‐sensitive (DS) L21 in response to polyethylene glycol (PEG)‐induced drought stress. Each genotype was subjected to 20% PEG along with control (0% PEG) in a greenhouse, and the leave samples were collected to determine the physiological traits and transcriptome profiling. With the accumulation of abscisic acid (ABA) under drought stress, the DR genotype exhibited higher water retention capability and slow‐wilting phenotype compared to DS genotype. As nonsignificant changes in oxidative damages and antioxidant defenses, overcoming drought stress in DR genotype was facilitated by drought avoidance rather than drought tolerance. There were 1567 and 4029 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) identified in the DR and DS genotypes, respectively. The DEGs were mostly enriched in photosynthesis, carbohydrate metabolism, lipid metabolism, cell wall organization, and signaling pathways, which were less affected in DR genotype. However, most of the leucine‐rich repeat receptor‐like kinases (LRR‐RLKs) were uniquely downregulated in DS genotype but uniquely upregulated in DR genotype by drought stress. By protein–protein interaction network analysis and whole genome resequencing, six LRR‐RLKs were considered the potential candidate genes for drought avoidance. We suggested that these LRR‐RLKs may play a critical role in promoting ABA‐induced stomatal closure through enhancing ABA sensitivity, but this hypothesis needs further validation. Taken together, these findings could provide in‐depth insights into the physiological and molecular mechanisms associated with drought avoidance and facilitate the breeding of drought‐resistant soybean cultivars. Core Ideas: The L14 had higher water retention capability and slow‐wilting phenotype compared to L21 under drought stress.The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with several metabolisms were more affected by drought stress in L21 rather than L14.Six leucine‐rich repeat receptor‐like kinases (LRR‐RLKs) genes would be considered potential candidates for drought resistance but need further validation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Objectives Methods Results Conclusions The pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) characteristics of nirmatrelvir (NMV) are unknown in Chinese patients with COVID‐19.To understand the PK, as well as PK–PD characteristics of NMV for optimizing the dose in Chinese patients with COVID‐19.We enrolled 141 participants who received NMV 300 mg/ritonavir (RTV) 100 mg b.i.d. for 5 days. The NMV concentrations were analyzed using 251 blood samples. PK/PD of NMV was investigated in these COVID‐19 patients using a nonlinear mixed‐effects model.The patients had a mean age of 82 years (range, 34–97). The absorption rate constant and apparent clearance of NMV in this Chinese cohort were 0.253 h−1 and 6.83 L/h, respectively, similar to Caucasian patients. No covariates affected NMV clearance. Predicted peak (Cmax) and trough concentration (Cmin) under 300 mg NMV/100 mg RTV b.i.d. were 4004 and 1498 ng/mL, respectively. Although higher AUC and Cmin were weakly associated with a slight increase in the number of cycle threshold (CT) of viral genes, no significant correlation was found, indicating a weak relationship between drug exposure and efficacy (CT).In all, our findings suggest no ethnic PK differences, a weak and clinically insignificant relationship between drug exposure and efficacy, suitable dosage for Chinese patients (including the elderly) based on PK parameters, and the need for further studies to determine optimal regimens for high‐risk patients due to inter‐individual variability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical unclonable function (PUF) is promising for anticounterfeiting and security applications. In this paper, a PUF concept is demonstrated based on the stochastic generation of nanodot matrix via mechanical stripping of a gold film kirigami with arrayed nanoscale split‐ring cuts. The random occurrence of nanofracture of metallic nanoconnection at split‐ring parts results in unpredictable remaining (labeled as "1") or peeling‐off (labeled as "0") of nanodots in each unit and thus generates a unclonable binary matrix. The highest randomness, i.e., 50% nanodots remaining in binary matrix, can be achieved by tuning the width of nanoconnection. Mechanical modeling reveals that the PUF can be caused by fracture‐related variations such as the effective strength of the metallic nanoconnection and nanoscale adhesion. A quick response code (QR) can be retrieved for analysis from the dark field photograph of generated nanodot matrix based on the nanofacture‐enabled PUF using in‐house developed solver, demonstrating excellent unclonability, repeatability, and uniformity. The encoding capacity of our PUFs can be conveniently scaled up or down depending on the demands of applications, which can be beneficial to advanced authentication and identification systems with high security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and hepatic fibrosis are leading causes of cirrhosis with rising morbidity and mortality worldwide. Currently, there is no appropriate treatment for NASH and hepatic fibrosis. Many studies have shown that oxidative stress is a main factor inducing NASH. Nomilin (NML) and obacunone (OBA) are limonoid compounds naturally occurring in citrus fruits with various biological properties. However, whether OBA and NML have beneficial effects on NASH remains unclear. Here, we demonstrated that OBA and NML inhibited hepatic tissue necrosis, inflammatory infiltration and liver fibrosis progression in methionine and choline‐deficient (MCD) diet, carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)‐treated and bile duct ligation (BDL) NASH and hepatic fibrosis mouse models. Mechanistic studies showed that NML and OBA enhanced anti‐oxidative effects, including reduction of malondialdehyde (MDA) level, increase of catalase (CAT) activity and the gene expression of glutathione S‐transferases (GSTs) and Nrf2‐keap1 signaling. Additional, NML and OBA inhibited the expression of inflammatory gene interleukin 6 (Il‐6), and regulated the bile acid metabolism genes Cyp3a11, Cyp7a1, multidrug resistance‐associated protein 3 (Mrp3). Overall, these findings indicate that NML and OBA may alleviate NASH and liver fibrosis in mice via enhancing antioxidant and anti‐inflammation capacity. Our study proposed that NML and OBA may be potential strategies for NASH treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Longitudinal data are common in clinical trials and observational studies, where missing outcomes due to dropouts are always encountered. Under such context with the assumption of missing at random, the weighted generalized estimating equation (WGEE) approach is widely adopted for marginal analysis. Model selection on marginal mean regression is a crucial aspect of data analysis, and identifying an appropriate correlation structure for model fitting may also be of interest and importance. However, the existing information criteria for model selection in WGEE have limitations, such as separate criteria for the selection of marginal mean and correlation structures, unsatisfactory selection performance in small‐sample setups, and so forth. In particular, there are few studies to develop joint information criteria for selection of both marginal mean and correlation structures. In this work, by embedding empirical likelihood into the WGEE framework, we propose two innovative information criteria named a joint empirical Akaike information criterion and a joint empirical Bayesian information criterion, which can simultaneously select the variables for marginal mean regression and also correlation structure. Through extensive simulation studies, these empirical‐likelihood‐based criteria exhibit robustness, flexibility, and outperformance compared to the other criteria including the weighted quasi‐likelihood under the independence model criterion, the missing longitudinal information criterion, and the joint longitudinal information criterion. In addition, we provide a theoretical justification of our proposed criteria, and present two real data examples in practice for further illustration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) with both high efficiency and excellent stability remains challenging. Herein, a strong correlation between the lattice strain in perovskite films and the stability of resulting PeLEDs is revealed. Based on high‐efficiency PeLEDs, the device lifetime is optimized by rationally tailoring the lattice strain in perovskite films. A PeLED with a high peak external quantum efficiency of 18.2% and a long lifetime of 151 h (T70, under a current density of 20 mA cm−2) is realized with a minimized lattice strain in the perovskite film. In addition, an increase in the lattice strain is found during the long‐time device stability test, indicating that the degradation of the local perovskite lattice structure could be one of the degradation mechanisms for long‐term stable PeLEDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the field of cardiovascular disease, recurrent events such as stroke or myocardial infarction (MI) are often encountered, leading to an increase in the risk of death. Accurately evaluating the prognosis of patients and dynamically predicting the risk of death by considering the historical recurrent events can improve medical decisions and lead to better health care outcomes. Recently proposed joint modeling approaches within the Bayesian framework have inspired the development of a dynamic prediction tool, which can be applied for subject‐level prediction of death with implementation in software packages. The prediction model incorporates subject heterogeneity with subject‐level random effects that account for unobserved time‐invariant factors and an extra copula function capturing the part caused by unmeasured time‐dependent factors. Thereafter, given the prespecified landmark time t′$$ {t}^{\prime } $$, the survival probability for a prediction horizon time of interest t$$ t $$ can be estimated for each individual. The prediction accuracy is assessed by time‐dependent receiving operating characteristic curve and the area under the curve and the Brier score with calibration plots is compared to traditional joint frailty models. Finally, the tool is applied to patients with multiple attacks of stroke or MI in the Cardiovascular Health study and the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities study for illustration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: The aim was to investigate the effect of mood disorders on parkinsonian toxin 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)‐induced motor disability, substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) dopaminergic (DA) neurons loss. Also, the neural circuit mechanism was elucidated. Methods: The depression‐like (physical stress, PS) and anxiety‐like (emotional stress, ES) mouse models were established by the three‐chamber social defeat stress (SDS). The features of Parkinson's disease were reproduced by MPTP injection. Viral‐based whole‐brain mapping was utilized to resolve the stress‐induced global changes in direct inputs onto SNc DA neurons. Calcium imaging and chemogenetic techniques were applied to verify the function of the related neural pathway. Results: We found that PS mice, but not ES mice, showed worse movement performance and more SNc DA neuronal loss than control mice after MPTP administration. The projection from the central amygdala (CeA) to the SNcDA was significantly increased in PS mice. The activity of SNc‐projected CeA neurons was enhanced in PS mice. Activating or inhibiting the CeA‐SNcDA pathway could mimic or block PS‐induced vulnerability to MPTP. Conclusions: These results indicated that projections from CeA to SNc DA neurons contribute to SDS‐induced vulnerability to MPTP in mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The convenient reaction delivers the products in high yields and with high diastereo- and enantioselectivities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The robust protocol displays a broad substrate scope and delivers the products in high yields and with very high diastereo- and enantioselectivities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The title reagent (II) (<95% purity) is used without further purification due to its decomposition during distillation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The asymmetric aldol addition reaction of aliphatic aldehydes with keto hydrates in presence of a copper-chiral BOX ligand catalyst affords the products with high enantioselectivities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research investigated the relation between racial categorization and implicit racial bias in majority and minority children. Chinese and Indian 3- to 7-year-olds from Singapore (N = 158) categorized Chinese and Indian faces by race and had their implicit and explicit racial biases measured. Majority Chinese children, but not minority Indian children, showed implicit bias favoring own race. Regardless of ethnicity, children's racial categorization performance correlated positively with implicit racial bias. Also, Chinese children, but not Indian children, displayed explicit bias favoring own race. Furthermore, children's explicit bias was unrelated to racial categorization performance and implicit bias. The findings support a perceptual-social linkage in the emergence of implicit racial bias and have implications for designing programs to promote interracial harmony. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asymmetric methods for practical synthesis of fluorine‐containing compounds are in extremely high demand in virtually all branches of the chemical industry. This work introduces a new chiral reagent for generalized installation of pharmacophoric (S)‐ or (R)‐2‐(alkoxyphosphono)‐1‐amino‐2,2 difluoroethyl group into organic compounds. The original synthetic application of this new reagent is exemplified by Friedel–Crafts reactions with various indole derivatives, which proceed with excellent stereochemical outcome. More information can be found in the Communication by G.‐V. Röschenthaler, V. A. Soloshonok, J. Han et al. on page 7036 ff. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of optically active pyridyl methanols is available with the title reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a letter published in the journal "Pathology International," which focuses on role of chlamydia pneumoniae in causing atherosclerosis. Factors that result in atherosclerosis development; Conditions that cause chlamydia pneumoniae infection.

Caveolae are intracellular vesicles with diameters ranging from 50 to 100 nm. The role of caveolins in mediating oxidative stress, autophagy, apoptosis, fibrosis, and vascular remodeling has attracted increasing attention in cardiovascular therapy. Several studies have suggested that caveolin could be a therapeutic target for the treatment of cardiac and/or vascular injury via several pathophysiological mechanisms. Despite substantial advances in our understanding of the basic biology of vesicles over the past decade, the relevance and specific role of these mechanisms in cardiovascular homeostasis remains ambiguous. Here, we review the macroscopic role of caveolins in protecting cardiac function and, at the microscopic level, examine possible cardioprotective caveolar mechanisms, including their antioxidative stress, antiapoptosis, autophagy‐regulatory, antifibrosis, and angiogenesis‐promoting properties. We believe that the role of caveolins in cardiac functioning has not been fully elucidated and is an important line of future research with several cardioprotective implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rare-earth metal chloride can be recycled six times without notable loss of catalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]