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Background: Our objective was to assess the efficacy and safety of initial hepatic arterial infusion of chemotherapy combined with transarterial chemoembolisation using camrelizumab-eluting Callisphere beads (camrelizumab-DEB-TACE) for treating unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods: Enrolment included patients with unresectable HCC who underwent camrelizumab-DEB-TACE treatment from September 2021 to February 2023. The assessment included the examination of tumour response, overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and the monitoring of adverse events (AEs). Results: Twenty-one patients were included in the study. The objective response rates (ORR) and disease control rates (DCR) were 55.0% and 90.0% at 1 month and 57.9% and 78.9% at 3 months, respectively. The median PFS and OS were 7.4 and 15.5 months months, respectively. Among the 21 patients, 4 underwent more than 2 procedures of camrelizumab-DEB-TACE, with a mean of 1.9 ± 1.1 procedures (range: 1–4) per patient. No severe complications or treatment-related mortalities were observed. In addition, no patient developed severe AEs related to camrelizumab, such as reactive cutaneous capillary endothelial proliferation, immune-related pneumonia, or immune-related myocarditis. Nineteen patients experienced at least one type of AEs related to DEB-TACE, with abdominal pain (n = 16, 76.2%) being the most prevalent AE. Conclusion: Camrelizumab-DEB-TACE demonstrated effectiveness and safety as a treatment for unresectable HCC, with no occurrence of severe camrelizumab-related AEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The indoor living environment of residential buildings is an important part of the habitat environment, affecting the living experience and well-being of the residents, which in turn influences the price of housing. However, few existing studies systematically concentrate on the integrated influence of the various elements of the indoor living environment on prices, and even fewer analyze the relationship between the indoor living environment and housing prices of different houses within the same residential quarter from a microperspective. Therefore, we use the Taojinjiayuan Residential Quarter, located in central Guangzhou City, China, as a case study area and analyze the extent and direction of the effect of the indoor living environment on housing prices. The study found that the quantitative evaluation results of the indoor living environment were reasonable. The integrated indoor living environment factors are closely related to housing prices. Orientation, view, and acoustic environment are significantly and positively related to housing prices, which have a different intensity of influence. These findings are beneficial to real estate developers, building designers, and residential users in quantitatively understanding the value of the indoor living environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Even though Fe‐based catalysts have been widely employed for CO2 hydrogenation into hydrocarbons, oxygenates, liquid fuels, etc. the precise regulation of their physicochemical properties is needed to enhance the catalytic performance. Herein, under the guidance of the traditional concept in heterogeneous catalysis‐confinement effect, a core‐shell structured catalyst Na−Fe3O4@C is constructed to boost the CO2 hydrogenation performance. Benefiting from the carbon‐chain growth limitation, tailorable H2/CO2 ratio on the catalytic interface, and unique electronic property that all endowed by the confinement effect, the selectivity and space‐time yield of light olefins (C2=−C4=) are as high as 47.4 % and 15.9 g molFe−1 h−1, respectively, which are all notably higher than that from the shell‐less counterpart. The function mechanism of the confinement effect in Fe‐based catalysts are clarified in detail by multiple characterization and density functional theory (DFT). This work may offer a new prospect for the rational design of CO2 hydrogenation catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen‐coordinated iron (Fe−N4) materials represent the most promising non‐noble electrocatalysts for the cathodic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) of fuel cells. However, molecular‐level structure design of Fe−N4 electrocatalyst remains a great challenge. In this study, we develop a novel Fe−N4 conjugated organic polymer (COP) electrocatalyst, which allows for precise design of the Fe−N4 structure, leading to unprecedented ORR performance. At the molecular level, we have successfully organized spatially proximate iron‐pyrrole/pyrazine (FePr/Pz) pairs into fully conjugated polymer networks, which in turn endows FePr sites with firmly covalent‐bonded matrix, strong d‐π electron coupling and highly dense distribution. The resulting pyrazine‐linked iron‐coordinated tetrapyrrole (Pz−FeTPr) COP electrocatalyst exhibits superior performance compared to most ORR electrocatalysts, with a half‐wave potential of 0.933 V and negligible activity decay after 40,000 cycles. When used as the cathode electrocatalyst in a hydroxide exchange membrane fuel cell, the Pz−FeTPr COP achieves a peak power density of ≈210 mW cm−2. We anticipate the COP based Fe−N4 catalyst design could be an effective strategy to develop high‐performance catalyst for facilitating the progress of fuel cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen‐coordinated iron (Fe−N4) materials represent the most promising non‐noble electrocatalysts for the cathodic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) of fuel cells. However, molecular‐level structure design of Fe−N4 electrocatalyst remains a great challenge. In this study, we develop a novel Fe−N4 conjugated organic polymer (COP) electrocatalyst, which allows for precise design of the Fe−N4 structure, leading to unprecedented ORR performance. At the molecular level, we have successfully organized spatially proximate iron‐pyrrole/pyrazine (FePr/Pz) pairs into fully conjugated polymer networks, which in turn endows FePr sites with firmly covalent‐bonded matrix, strong d‐π electron coupling and highly dense distribution. The resulting pyrazine‐linked iron‐coordinated tetrapyrrole (Pz−FeTPr) COP electrocatalyst exhibits superior performance compared to most ORR electrocatalysts, with a half‐wave potential of 0.933 V and negligible activity decay after 40,000 cycles. When used as the cathode electrocatalyst in a hydroxide exchange membrane fuel cell, the Pz−FeTPr COP achieves a peak power density of ≈210 mW cm−2. We anticipate the COP based Fe−N4 catalyst design could be an effective strategy to develop high‐performance catalyst for facilitating the progress of fuel cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Construction is an important sector for climate action. The construction, operation and maintenance, demolition and disposal stages of house buildings consume many resources and have a significant impact on society, the economy and the environment. To assess such efforts, we propose the emergy footprint model of house buildings, which can quantitatively analyse the ecological effect in the house buildings life cycle. The research shows the following. China's ecological efficiency of the housing sector is characterized by improvement. In the house building fifty-year life cycle, the emergy footprint of the operation and maintenance stage is the largest (75.92%), followed by the construction stage (21.95%), but the emergy footprint intensity of the latter is 4.82 times that of the former. Reducing energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions in the operation and maintenance stage is the key to reducing the life cycle emergy footprint of house buildings. The ecological impact coefficient of house buildings is negatively exponentially correlated with their service life. It reaches ecological break-even when the service period of the house building is equal to 36.73 years. If the house building is demolished after less than nine years of service, the impact is extremely unfavourable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the use of Li-ion batteries, Li-ion batteries will experience unavoidable aging, which can cause battery safety issues, performance degradation, and inaccurate SOC estimation, so it is necessary to predict the state of health (SOH) of Li-ion batteries. Existing methods for Li-ion battery state of health assessment mainly focus on parameters such as constant voltage charging time, constant current charging time, and discharging time, with little consideration of the impact of changes in Li-ion battery temperature on the state of health of Li-ion batteries. In this paper, a new prediction method for Li-ion battery health state based on the surface difference temperature (DT), incremental capacity analysis (ICA), and differential voltage analysis (DVA) is proposed. Five health factors are extracted from each of the three curves as input features to the model, respectively, and the weights, thresholds, and number of hidden layers of the Elman neural network are optimized using the Whale of a Whale Algorithm (WOA), which results in an average decrease of 43%, 49%, and 46% in MAE, RMSE, and MAPE compared to the Elman neural network. For the problem where the three predictions depend on different sources, the features of the three curves are fused using the weighted average method and predicted using the WOA–Elman neural network, whose MAE, RMSE, and MAPE are 0.00054, 0.0007897, and 0.06547% on average. The results show that the proposed method has an overall error of less than 2% in SOH prediction, improves the accuracy and robustness of the overall SOH estimation, and reduces the computational burden to some extent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the histopathological features of glandular atrophy of the lamina propria of gastric mucosa during its occurrence and development. Method: We performed detailed histological observation and immunohistochemical examination on the endoscopic biopsy and ESD endoscopic resection specimens of 896 patients with glandular atrophy of the lamina propria of gastric mucosa. The EnVision two-step method was used for immunohistochemical staining, and the slices were incubated with primary antibody CK7, CK20, villin, CDX2, MUC5AC, MUC6, p53 and ki-67. Hematoxylin staining was performed and observed under the microscope and statistically analyzed. Results: In the initial stage of glandular atrophy of the lamina propria, the proliferation area of the deep gastric pits, and the isthmus and neck of the gastric glands are characterized by roughly normal structure of the glandular structure, increased mesenchyme, and widened space between glands. Subsequently, the gland becomes smaller in volume and less in number, especially at the base, in the gastric glandular part of the gastric unit. The disease at this stage has higher incidence, and occurs more often in the elderly who account for 64.0% (573/896) of our study group. The disease in this stage may exhibit some lesions that are physiologic (age-related degeneration) while others are pathological. Therefore, this condition is called simple glandular atrophy of the lamina propria of the gastric mucosa. When the gastric mucosal epithelium is subjected to infection or repeated infections, chemical stimuli, immune factors, and genetic factors, it can lead to the proliferation and transformation of stem cells in the proliferation area of the deep gastric pits, and the isthmus and neck of the gastric glands, forming single ducts, multiple ducts, or a proliferation of patchy cells. Then, atypical hyperplasia (intraepithelial neoplasia) presents, finally leading to gastric adenocarcinoma. Conclusion: Understanding the histopathological characteristics of glandular atrophy of the lamina propria of gastric mucosa is of great significance in controlling the occurrence and development of gastric cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conversion of CO2 into ethanol with renewable H2 has attracted tremendous attention due to its integrated functions of carbon elimination and chemical synthesis, but remains challenging. The electronic properties of a catalyst are essential to determine the adsorption strength and configuration of the key intermediates, therefore altering the reaction network for targeted synthesis. Herein, we describe a catalytic system in which a carbon buffer layer is employed to tailor the electronic properties of the ternary ZnOx−Fe5C2−Fe3O4, in which the electron‐transfer pathway (ZnOx→Fe species or carbon layer) ensures the appropriate adsorption strength of −CO* on the catalytic interface, facilitating C−C coupling between −CHx* and −CO* for ethanol synthesis. Benefiting from this unique electron‐transfer buffering effect, an extremely high ethanol yield of 366.6 gEtOH kgcat−1 h−1 (with CO of 10 vol % co‐feeding) is achieved from CO2 hydrogenation. This work provides a powerful electronic modulation strategy for catalyst design in terms of highly oriented synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conversion of CO2 into ethanol with renewable H2 has attracted tremendous attention due to its integrated functions of carbon elimination and chemical synthesis, but remains challenging. The electronic properties of a catalyst are essential to determine the adsorption strength and configuration of the key intermediates, therefore altering the reaction network for targeted synthesis. Herein, we describe a catalytic system in which a carbon buffer layer is employed to tailor the electronic properties of the ternary ZnOx−Fe5C2−Fe3O4, in which the electron‐transfer pathway (ZnOx→Fe species or carbon layer) ensures the appropriate adsorption strength of −CO* on the catalytic interface, facilitating C−C coupling between −CHx* and −CO* for ethanol synthesis. Benefiting from this unique electron‐transfer buffering effect, an extremely high ethanol yield of 366.6 gEtOH kgcat−1 h−1 (with CO of 10 vol % co‐feeding) is achieved from CO2 hydrogenation. This work provides a powerful electronic modulation strategy for catalyst design in terms of highly oriented synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes and analyzes a second-order decoupled Backward Euler method plus time filter for the evolutionary Stokes/Darcy model, which allows different variable time steps in the free fluid flow region and the porous media flow region. Furthermore, this algorithm, which is a combination of first order Backward Euler method and time filter scheme, uncouples the Stokes/Darcy model into the Stokes and Darcy problems per time step. In particular, adaptive algorithm is constructed to improve the computational efficiency. Moreover, we mainly deduce the stability and error estimation in theoretical analysis. In addition, numerical experiments are used to verify the effectiveness, second order convergence and efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

White pollution substantially impairs people's quality of life nowadays. Bio-based polymers that are environmentally friendly and biodegradable have garnered interest. Among them, polylactic acid (PLA) has attracted wide attention due to its excellent biodegradability, high transparency, and easy processing. However, its inherent flammability, low toughness, and poor compatibility with flame retardants severely limit its application scope. In this paper, a phytic acid-based flame retardant glycidyl methacrylate phytate (GPA) was prepared by epoxy ring-opening and phosphate transesterification. GPA was grafted onto PLA through free radical polymerization, and the introduction of GPA improved both the mechanical properties and flame retardancy of PLA. The LOI of PLA composite rose to 28% after adding a 6 wt% GPA. A reduction of 11.7% in the total heat release of the PLA-GPAX was observed in comparison to neat PLA, demonstrating that the prepared PLA composite exhibits high flame retardancy. Due to the improved dispersion and compatibility of GPA in the matrix after grafting onto PLA, the mechanical strength of PLA increased by 19.9%. This study provides a feasible method for improving the compatibility between flame retardants and bio-based polymers, achieving a mutually beneficial situation in flame retardancy and mechanical strength, and further expanding the application range of bio-based materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The performance of antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) of bacteria and the interpretation of AST results for bacteria isolated from animals are complex tasks which must be performed using standard published methodology and overseen by experts in clinical microbiology and in consultation with clinical pharmacologists. Otherwise, AST has significant potential for errors and mistakes. In this review, we provide guidance on how to correctly perform AST of bacteria isolated from animals and interpret the AST results. Particular emphasis is placed on the various approved or published methodologies for the different bacteria as well as the application of interpretive criteria, including clinical breakpoints and epidemiological cut-off values (ECVs/ECOFFs). Application of approved interpretive criteria and definitions of susceptible, susceptible dose-dependent, nonsusceptible, intermediate, and resistant for clinical breakpoints as well as wild-type and non-wildtype for ECVs, are explained and the difficulties resulting from the lack of approved clinical breakpoints for other bacteria, indications, and animal species is discussed. The requirement of quality controls in any AST approach is also emphasized. In addition, important parameters, often used in monitoring and surveillance studies, such as MIC50, MIC90, and testing range, are explained and criteria for the classification of bacteria as multidrug-resistant, extensively drug-resistant or pandrug-resistant are provided. Common mistakes are presented and the means to avoid them are described. To provide the most accurate AST, one must strictly adhere to approved standards or validated methodologies, like those of the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute or other internationally accepted AST documents and the detailed information provided therein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

STUDY QUESTION Does treatment selection for cervical lesions affect the outcome of IVF/ICSI? SUMMARY ANSWER There was no difference in pregnancy outcome between treated and untreated groups, or between different types of IVF/ICSI treatment. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and HPV-induced cervical lesions are associated with decreased fertility, and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) treatment may increase the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Between 2018 and 2020, 190 women with infertility who had abnormal HPV screening or cytology results prior to IVF/ICSI, and were diagnosed with CIN2/CIN3 by colposcopy biopsy at a tertiary hospital, were enrolled in a retrospective cohort study with follow-up until 31 December 2021. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Patients with infertility who were diagnosed with CIN2/CIN3 by colposcopy biopsy were divided into the treatment and expectant management groups. The treatment group was divided into two intervention subgroups: the ablative therapy group and the surgical treatment group. The baseline data, number of oocytes retrieved, and rates of fertilization, high-quality embryos, positive serum HCG, clinical pregnancy, abortion, live birth, and cumulative pregnancy were compared among groups. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Among the 190 patients included in the study, 152 were diagnosed with CIN2, and 38 patients had CIN3. There was no significant difference in the baseline data between the treatment and expectant groups. The time from confirmed lesions to the onset of gonadotrophin administration in the surgical treatment group was significantly longer than in the ablative therapy group and the expectant group (P  = 0.007 and P  = 0.024, respectively). For the treatment and expectant groups, respectively, the average number of oocytes retrieved (12.95 ± 8.77; 13.32 ± 9.16), fertilization rate (71.01 ± 23.86; 64.84 ± 26.24), and high-quality embryo rate (48.93 ± 30.72; 55.17 ± 34.13) did not differ, and no differences were detected between the different treatment subgroups. There were no differences among groups in rates of HCG positivity, clinical pregnancy, miscarriage, live birth, or cumulative pregnancy. The live birth rate in the surgical treatment group was slightly higher than that in the expectant groups (77.78% versus 66.67%), but the difference was not statistically significant. The 3-year cumulative pregnancy rates in the surgical treatment and expectant groups were 58.19% and 64.00%, respectively. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This is a retrospective study, which by nature can include selection bias, and the number of cases in the expectant group was <30, which may result in a false-negative result owing to the small sample size. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS For patients with CIN2/CIN3, the treatment of cervical lesions does not affect the outcome of IVF/ICSI. Patients with CIN2 can enroll for IVF/ICSI cycles, with close follow-up to prevent the progression of cervical lesions, in order to avoid further delay in starting ART. For patients with CIN3, ovulation induction and embryo cryopreservation can be initiated as soon as possible after cervical lesions are treated, and frozen–thawed embryo transfer can be carried out 9–12 months later. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was funded by the Key Clinical Projects of the Peking University Third Hospital (to Y.W. BYSYZD2021014). The authors declare no conflicts of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Internet addiction (IA), recognized as a behavioral addiction, is emerging as a global public health problem. Acupuncture has been demonstrated to be effective in alleviating IA; however, the mechanism is not yet clear. To fill this knowledge gap, our study aimed to investigate the modulatory effects of acupuncture on the functional interactions among the addiction‐related networks in adolescents with IA. Methods: Thirty individuals with IA and thirty age‐ and sex‐matched healthy control subjects (HCs) were recruited. Subjects with IA were given a 40‐day acupuncture treatment, and resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data were collected before and after acupuncture sessions. HCs received no treatment and underwent one fMRI scan after enrollment. The intergroup differences in functional connectivity (FC) among the subcortical nucleus (SN) and fronto‐parietal network (FPN) were compared between HCs and subjects with IA at baseline. Then, the intragroup FC differences between the pre‐ and post‐treatment were analyzed in the IA group. A multiple linear regression model was further employed to fit the FC changes to symptom relief in the IA group. Results: In comparison to HCs, subjects with IA exhibited significantly heightened FC within and between the SN and FPN at baseline. After 40 days of acupuncture treatment, the FC within the FPN and between the SN and FPN were significantly decreased in individuals with IA. Symptom improvement in subjects with IA was well fitted by the decrease in FC between the left midbrain and ventral prefrontal cortex and between the left thalamus and ventral anterior prefrontal cortex. Conclusion: These findings confirmed the modulatory effects of acupuncture on the aberrant functional interactions among the SN and FPN, which may partly reflect the neurophysiological mechanism of acupuncture for IA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resilience, a psychological individual difference variable, has not received adequate scholarly attention in education contexts. The present study investigated the resilience level among 273 university EFL learners in China with T.-Y. Kim and Kim's (2017. The impact of resilience on L2 learners' motivated behaviour and proficiency in L2 learning. Educational Studies 43(1). 1–15) scale, which comprised five sub-components of resilience in the Korean EFL context. Confirmatory factor analysis and reliability analysis showed that self-regulation, one sub-component identified in the Korean context, was also found in the factorial structure of resilience in the Chinese EFL context; accordingly, self-regulation was hypothesised to be a "Resilience Core" that can be found in different learning contexts. Hierarchical regression analyses revealed that the selected sociobiographical variables (e.g., a global measure of multilingualism, GMM) affected resilience and "Resilience Core" to varying degrees; for example, L2 joy (ΔR2 = 14.2–23.3%) and GMM (2.9–7.8%) emerged as important predictors for resilience because their minimum ΔR2 exceeded the "typical" effect size benchmark (1%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhizosphere microbes play key roles in plant growth and productivity in agricultural systems. One of the critical issues is revealing the interaction of agricultural management (M) and rhizosphere selection effects (R) on soil microbial communities, root exudates and plant productivity. Through a field management experiment, we found that bacteria were more sensitive to the M × R interaction effect than fungi, and the positive effect of rhizosphere bacterial diversity on plant biomass existed in the bacterial three two‐tillage system. In addition, inoculation experiments demonstrated that the nitrogen cycle‐related isolate Stenotrophomonas could promote plant growth and alter the activities of extracellular enzymes N‐acetyl‐ d‐glucosaminidase and leucine aminopeptidase in rhizosphere soil. Microbe‐metabolites network analysis revealed that hubnodes Burkholderia‐Caballeronia‐Paraburkholderia and Pseudomonas were recruited by specific root metabolites under the M × R interaction effect, and the inoculation of 10 rhizosphere‐matched isolates further proved that these microbes could promote the growth of soybean seedlings. Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis indicated that the growth‐promoting mechanisms of these beneficial genera were closely related to metabolic pathways such as amino acid metabolism, melatonin biosynthesis, aerobactin biosynthesis and so on. This study provides field observation and experimental evidence to reveal the close relationship between beneficial rhizosphere microbes and plant productivity under the M × R interaction effect. Summary statement: This study reveals that bacterial communities in agriculture systems are more sensitive to the interactive effects of agricultural management (M) and rhizosphere selection (R) than fungal communities, and that rhizosphere bacterial diversity drives plant biomass enhancement. Root exudates recruit beneficial genera of bacteria to colonize the root surface and promote plant growth, and the growth‐promoting mechanisms are related to pathways such as amino acid metabolism, melatonin biosynthesis and aerobactin biosynthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Acetyl ferulic 7‐hydroxyisoflavone ester (AHE) was synthesized and its antioxidant capacity in vitro was evaluated by free radical scavenging assay and thermo‐oxidative stability analysis of fish oil in this study. The formation of primary and secondary oxidation products can be effectively inhibited by AHE, tert‐butylhydroxyquinone (TBHQ), ferulic acid and 7‐hydroxyisoflavone. The intensity of UV‐Vis absorption spectra increased significantly, whereas the intensity of fluorescence spectra decreased obviously with the deepening of oxidation degree of fish oil. AHE significantly alleviated the degradation of unsaturated fatty acids in fish oil. The results demonstrated that AHE was more effective than TBHQ, ferulic acid and 7‐hydroxyisoflavone in retarding the oxidative degradation of fish oil during high temperature storage (80 °C). Moreover, the formation of oxidation products in fish oil followed a first‐order kinetic model, and AHE effectively reduced reaction rate constant and delayed secondary lipid oxidation process. As a result, AHE is an effective antioxidant that can stabilise fish oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurately predicting the risk of lower extremity (LE) radiating pain after surgery is an important endeavor for spinal surgeons. Our study aimed to identify risk factors for LE radiating pain after decompression with full-endoscopic lumbar discectomy (FELD) and develop a nomogram. We retrospectively reviewed the medical data of patients with lumbar disc herniation who underwent FELD. Two hundred thirty-five patients diagnosed at our hospital from January 2015 to December 2020 were used for model development. The independent risk factors for LE radiating pain after surgery were determined by least absolute shrinkage and selection operator logistic regression and multivariate logistic regression analysis. A nomogram was developed to predict the risk of LE radiating pain based on independent risk factors. Receiver operating characteristic curve, calibration curve, and decision curve analyses were used to evaluate the predictive performance. The nomogram was further verified by an independent cohort. Three hundred seventy-five patients were enrolled in this study, with 102 patients in the training cohort reporting LE radiating pain after FELD, while 133 patients did not. In the validation cohort, 57 patients reported LE radiating pain after FELD, while 83 patients did not. The model was established by multivariate logistic regression analysis. The risk factors included a higher Michigan State University classification of herniated discs, increased disease course, increased time of surgery, reduced lateral recess width, and an interlaminar surgical approach, compared to transforaminal approach. The C-indices and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the predictive model demonstrated good discrimination. Good predictive performance and accuracy were also observed in the validation cohort. A novel nomogram for predicting recurrent LE radiating pain within 1 week after FELD was established and validated. More aggressive pain management strategies should be considered for patients at high risk of LE radiating pain after surgery, as predicted by this model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Differences in clinical adverse outcomes (CAO) based on different intestinal stricturing definitions in Crohn's disease (CD) are poorly documented. This study aims to compare CAO between radiological strictures (RS) and endoscopic strictures (ES) in ileal CD and explore the significance of upstream dilatation in RS. Methods: This retrospective double-center study included 199 patients (derivation cohort, n = 157; validation cohort, n = 42) with bowel strictures who simultaneously underwent endoscopic and radiologic examinations. RS was defined as a luminal narrowing with wall thickening relative to the normal gut on cross-sectional imaging (group 1 (G1)), which further divided into G1a (without upstream dilatation) and G1b (with upstream dilatation). ES was defined as an endoscopic non-passable stricture (group 2 (G2)). Strictures met the definitions of RS (with or without upstream dilatation) and ES were categorized as group 3 (G3). CAO referred to stricture-related surgery or penetrating disease. Results: In the derivation cohort, G1b (93.3%) had the highest CAO occurrence rate, followed by G3 (32.6%), G1a (3.2%), and G2 (0%) (p < 0.0001); the same order was found in the validation cohort. The CAO-free survival time was significantly different among the four groups (p < 0.0001). Upstream dilatation (hazard ratio, 1.126) was a risk factor for predicting CAO in RS. Furthermore, when upstream dilatation was added to diagnose RS, 17.6% of high-risk strictures were neglected. Conclusions: CAO differs significantly between RS and ES, and clinicians should pay more attention to strictures in G1b and G3. Upstream dilatation has an important impact on the clinical outcome of RS but may not be an essential factor for RS diagnosis. Clinical relevance statement: This study explored the definition of intestinal stricture with the greatest significance for the clinical diagnosis and prognosis of patients with CD, and consequently provided effective auxiliary information for clinicians to formulate strategies for the treatment of CD intestinal strictures. Key Points: • The retrospective double-center study showed that clinical adverse outcome is different between radiological strictures and endoscopic strictures in CD. • Upstream dilatation has an important impact on the clinical outcome of radiological strictures but may not be an essential factor for diagnosis of radiological strictures. • Radiological stricture with upstream dilatation and simultaneous radiological and endoscopic stricture were at increased risk for clinical adverse outcomes; thus, closer monitoring should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fabrication of ceramic materials with interconnected pores is necessary to improve thermal energy storage efficiency in high‐temperature infiltration technology. In the present study, industrial wastes such as coal gangue, steel slag, etc., were selected as the raw materials to prepare ceramics with interconnected pores. By adopting 50% cigarette butts as the pore‐forming agent, steel slag–coal gangue mixtures with a mass ratio of steel slag to coal gangue of 1:9 were sintered at 1100°C, and ceramics with interconnected elongated pores were prepared successfully. The highest apparent porosity and lowest volume density of the as‐prepared ceramics were ca. 73% and.74 g/cm3, respectively. Further measurements of the thermophysical properties indicated that no obvious mass loss was observed in the temperature range from ambient temperature to 800°C. The maximum values of specific heat and thermal conductivity were 1.38 J/(g K) and 1.661 W/(m K), respectively, and meanwhile the minimum compressive strength could exceed 3.5 MPa. These research results implied that the as‐prepared steel slag–coal gangue ceramics can provide long‐term service and offer excellent thermal stability over a wide temperature range. Therefore, they should have potential applications in high‐temperature infiltration technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adding anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (anti-EGFR) target agents to conversion therapy may improve the resection rates and survival of patients with potentially resectable metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). This study aims to analyze the efficacy and safety of additional anti-EGFR target agents. Methods: A systematic search was conducted on PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library. And all relevant studies published in English before January 2023 were collected to explore the impact of additional anti-EGFR targeted agent on the efficacy and safety of patients with potentially resectable mCRC (PROSPERO: CRD42022340523, https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/). Results: This study included a total of 8 articles, including 2618 patients. The overall response rate (ORR) and R0 resection rates of the experimental group were higher than those of the control group, while there was no significant difference in progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) between the two groups. In RAS/KRAS wild-type patients, the ORR (RR: 1.20, 95% Cl: 1.02–1.41, p = 0.03), R0 resection rate (RR: 1.60, 95% Cl: 1.17–2.20, p = 0.003), PFS (HR: 0.80, 95% Cl: 0.68–0.93, p = 0.003), and OS (HR: 0.87, 95% Cl: 0.76–0.99, p = 0.031) of the experimental group were higher than those of the control group. While in KRAS mutant patients, there was no statistical difference between the two groups in ORR, R0 resection rate, PFS, and OS. Conclusion: The addition of anti-EGFR targeted agents can improve the prognosis of RAS/KRAS wild-type patients with potentially resectable mCRC, while KRAS mutant patients may not benefit. In addition, the overall safety factor was controllable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Functioning as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) is the main action mechanism of most cytoplasmic lncRNAs. However, it is not known whether this mechanism of action also exists in the nucleus. Results: We identified four nuclear lncRNAs that are presented in granulosa cells (GCs) and were differentially expressed during sow follicular atresia. Notably, similar to cytoplasmic lncRNAs, these nuclear lncRNAs also sponge miRNAs in the nucleus of GCs through direct interactions. Furthermore, NORSF (non-coding RNA involved in sow fertility), one of the nuclear lncRNA acts as a ceRNA of miR-339. Thereby, it relieves the regulatory effect of miR-339 on CYP19A1 encoding P450arom, a rate-limiting enzyme for E2 synthesis in GCs. Interestingly, miR-339 acts as a saRNA that activates CYP19A1 transcription and enhances E2 release by GCs through altering histone modifications in the promoter by directly binding to the CYP19A1 promoter. Functionally, NORSF inhibited E2 release by GCs via the miR-339 and CYP19A1 axis. Conclusions: Our findings highlight an unappreciated mechanism of nuclear lncRNAs and show it acts as a ceRNA, which may be a common lncRNA function in the cytoplasm and nucleus. We also identified a potential endogenous saRNA for improving female fertility and treating female infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cation-anion co-doping has proven to be an effective method of improving the photocatalytic performances of CaTiO3 perovskites. In this regard, (La/Ce-N/S) co-doped CaTiO3 models were investigated for the first time using first-principles calculations based on a supercell of 2 × 2 × 2 with La/Ce concentrations of 0.125, 0.25, and 0.375. The energy band structure, density of states, charge differential density, electron-hole effective masses, optical properties, and the water redox potential were calculated for various models. According to our results, (La-S)-doped CaTiO3 with a doping ratio of 0.25 (LCOS1-0.25) has superior photocatalytic hydrolysis properties due to the synergistic performances of its narrow band gap, fast carrier mobility, and superb ability to absorb visible light. Apart from the reduction of the band gap, the introduction of intermediate energy levels by La and Ce within the band gap also facilitates the transition of excited electrons from valence to the conduction band. Our calculations and findings provide theoretical insights and solid predictions for discovering CaTiO3 perovskites with excellent photocatalysis performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the continuous construction of large-scale Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellations, their potential for Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) applications has been emphasized. This study aims to derive an optimal positioning configuration formula based on the ratio of high-elevation and low-elevation satellites, which can improve the positioning accuracy and overcome the accuracy loss due to signal occlusion. A genetic algorithm is used to solve the optimal positioning configuration problem for large-scale satellite selection. Through a simulation using Starlink satellites currently in orbit, it is verified that the traditional recursive algorithm cannot be applied to satellite selection for large-scale constellations. The proposed formula has a similar accuracy to the Quasi-Optimal algorithm when there is no signal occlusion and the satellites are uniformly selected. However, the accuracy of the latter deteriorates significantly under signal occlusion. Our algorithm can effectively overcome this problem. Moreover, we discuss the effect of different types of obstructions on the accuracy loss. We find that the Quasi-Optimal algorithm is more sensitive to a single large-angle obstruction than multiple small-angle obstructions. Our proposed formula can reduce the localization accuracy degradation caused by signal occlusions in both scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) plays a crucial role in the field of intelligent mobile robots. However, the traditional Visual SLAM (VSLAM) framework is based on strong assumptions about static environments, which are not applicable to dynamic real-world environments. The correctness of re-localization and recall of loop closure detection are both lower when the mobile robot loses frames in a dynamic environment. Thus, in this paper, the re-localization and loop closure detection method with a semantic topology graph based on ORB-SLAM2 is proposed. First, we use YOLOv5 for object detection and label the recognized dynamic and static objects. Secondly, the topology graph is constructed using the position information of static objects in space. Then, we propose a weight expression for the topology graph to calculate the similarity of topology in different keyframes. Finally, the re-localization and loop closure detection are determined based on the value of topology similarity. Experiments on public datasets show that the semantic topology graph is effective in improving the correct rate of re-localization and the accuracy of loop closure detection in a dynamic environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] NO 3 − is a common water pollutant that can serve as a potential nitrogen source for electrocatalytic NH 3 production. However, an efficient and complete removal of low NO 3 − concentrations remains a challenge. Fe 1 Cu 2 @MXene bimetallic catalysts were constructed on two-dimensional Ti 3 C 2 T x MXene carriers via a simple solution-based synthetic method and used for the electrocatalytic reduction of NO 3 −. The combination of the rich functional groups, high electronic conductivity on the MXene surface, and the synergistic effect between the Cu and Fe sites enabled the composite to effectively catalyse NH 3 synthesis, with a 98% conversion of NO 3 − in 8 h and a selectivity for NH 3 of up to 99.6%. In addition, Fe 1 Cu 2 @MXene showed excellent environmental and cyclic stability at various pH values and temperatures over multiple (14) cycles. Semiconductor analysis techniques and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy confirmed that the synergistic effect provided by the dual active sites of the bimetallic catalyst enabled fast electron transport. This study provides new insights into the synergistic promotion of NO 3 − reduction reactions using bimetals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: A humanoid intelligent display platform (HIDP) is created using stretchable and resilient ionotronic materials, and can be applicable in extreme environments and complex mechanical stimulations. HIDP links sound amplitude and brightness through machine learning for audiovisual interaction. HIDP identifies and displays animal species and corresponding frequencies in real-time. This study proposes a rational strategy for the design, fabrication and system integration of the humanoid intelligent display platform (HIDP) to meet the requirements of highly humanized mechanical properties and intelligence for human–machine interfaces. The platform's sandwich structure comprises a middle light-emitting layer and surface electrodes, which consists of silicon elastomer embedded with phosphor and silk fibroin ionoelastomer, respectively. Both materials are highly stretchable and resilient, endowing the HIDP with skin-like mechanical properties and applicability in various extreme environments and complex mechanical stimulations. Furthermore, by establishing the numerical correlation between the amplitude change of animal sounds and the brightness variation, the HIDP realizes audiovisual interaction and successful identification of animal species with the aid of Internet of Things (IoT) and machine learning techniques. The accuracy of species identification reaches about 100% for 200 rounds of random testing. Additionally, the HIDP can recognize animal species and their corresponding frequencies by analyzing sound characteristics, displaying real-time results with an accuracy of approximately 99% and 93%, respectively. In sum, this study offers a rational route to designing intelligent display devices for audiovisual interaction, which can expedite the application of smart display devices in human–machine interaction, soft robotics, wearable sound-vision system and medical devices for hearing-impaired patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective : Previous studies have indicated that neurotransmitters play important roles in the occurrence and development of gastric cancer. MAOA is an important catecholamine neurotransmitter-degrading enzyme involved in the degradation of norepinephrine, epinephrine and serotonin. To find a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of gastric cancer, the biological functions of MAOA and the underlying mechanism in gastric cancer need to be explored. Methods: The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets, Kaplan‒Meier (KM) plotter were used to identify the differentially expressed genes, which mainly involved the degradation and synthesis enzymes of neurotransmitters in gastric cancer. We also investigated the expression pattern of MAOA in human and mouse tissues and cell lines by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting analysis. Western blotting, quantitative real-time PCR, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and a Seahorse experiment were used to identify the molecular mechanism of cancer cell glycolysis. MAOA expression and patient survival were analysed in the Ren Ji cohort, and univariate and multivariate analyses were performed based on the clinicopathological characteristics of the above samples. Results: MAOA expression was significantly downregulated in gastric cancer tissue and associated with poor patient prognosis. Moreover, the expression level of MAOA in gastric cancer tissue had a close negative correlation with the SUXmax value of PET-CT in patients. MAOA suppressed tumour growth and glycolysis and promoted cancer cell apoptosis. We also reported that MAOA can interact with NDRG1 and regulate glycolysis through suppression of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. MAOA expression may serve as an independent prognostic factor in gastric cancer patients. Conclusions: MAOA attenuated glycolysis and inhibited the progression of gastric cancer through the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. Loss of function or downregulation of MAOA can facilitate gastric cancer progression. Overexpression of MAOA and inhibition of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway may provide a potential method for gastric cancer treatment in clinical therapeutic regimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xinjiang is located in arid northwest China, which is a key area for promoting the high-quality development of the regional ecological environment. In recent years, against a background of increasing human activities and rapid natural changes, Xinjiang has faced enormous ecological challenges. This paper utilizes land-use data from 2000 to 2020 to verify the region's current state of the ecosystem. Additionally, it uses the value equivalent factor per unit area, ecosystem service value (ESV) loss and gain matrix, and double-factor spatial autocorrelation analysis to study the spatial and temporal variabilities of ESV in Xinjiang and its attribution to spatial correlation. The results show that (1) the ESV in Xinjiang exhibits an overall increasing trend during 2000–2020, with a total increase of about CNY 18.202 billion. Regulation-service ESV takes the main position in the single-service function, accounting for about 67.18% of the total ESV. In northern Xinjiang, the ESV demonstrates a decreasing trend, dropping by about CNY 16.885 billion, while in southern Xinjiang, the ESV shows an increasing trend, rising by CNY 35.086 billion. (2) For the study period, the main loss of ESV in Xinjiang is the conversion of ecological land with a high ESV into cropland or barren land with a low ESV. The conversion of bare land to grassland led to the largest increase in ESV (about CNY 209.308 billion), whereas the conversion of grassland to barren land led to the largest loss (about CNY 183.046 billion). (3) There are positive correlations among ESV, net primary productivity (NPP), and human activity intensity (HAI). However, all of the relationships weaken year by year. The spatial agglomeration of ESV ∩ NPP is significantly greater than that of ESV ∩ HAI, so NPP is the dominant factor in the spatial correlation of ESV in Xinjiang. The findings of this study provide a scientific basis for promoting high-quality regional ecological development in China's arid northwest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Members of the WRKY transcription factor (TF) family are unique to plants and serve as important regulators of diverse physiological processes, including the ability of plants to manage biotic and abiotic stressors. However, the functions of specific WRKY family members in the context of maize responses to fungal pathogens remain poorly understood, particularly in response to Ustilago maydis (DC.) Corda (U. maydis), which is responsible for the devastating disease known as corn smut. A systematic bioinformatic approach was herein employed for the characterization of the maize WRKY TF family, leading to the identification of 120 ZmWRKY genes encoded on 10 chromosomes. Further structural and phylogenetic analyses of these TFs enabled their classification into seven different subgroups. Segmental duplication was established as a major driver of ZmWRKY family expansion in gene duplication analyses, while the Ka/Ks ratio suggested that these ZmWRKY genes had experienced strong purifying selection. When the transcriptional responses of these genes to pathogen inoculation were evaluated, seven U. maydis-inducible ZmWRKY genes were identified, as validated using a quantitative real-time PCR approach. All seven of these WKRY proteins were subsequently tested using a yeast one-hybrid assay approach, which revealed their ability to directly bind the ZmSWEET4b W-box element, thereby controlling the U. maydis-inducible upregulation of ZmSWEET4b. These results suggest that these WRKY TFs can control sugar transport in the context of fungal infection. Overall, these data offer novel insight into the evolution, transcriptional regulation, and functional characteristics of the maize WRKY family, providing a basis for future research aimed at exploring the mechanisms through which these TFs control host plant responses to common smut and other fungal pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A household consumption and optimal portfolio problem pertinent to life insurance (LI) in a continuous time setting is examined. The family receives a random income before the parents' retirement date. The price of the risky asset is driven by the exponential Ornstein–Uhlenbeck (O-U) process, which can better reflect the state of the financial market. If the parents pass away prior to their retirement time, the children do not have any work income and LI can be purchased to hedge the loss of wealth due to the parents' accidental death. Meanwhile, utility functions (UFs) of the parents and children are individually taken into account in relation to the uncertain lifetime. The purpose of the family is to appropriately maximize the weighted average of the corresponding utilities of the parents and children. The optimal strategies of the problem are achieved using a dynamic programming approach to solve the associated Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman (HJB) equation by employing the convex dual theory and Legendre transform (LT). Finally, we aim to examine how variations in the weight of the parents' UF and the coefficient of risk aversion affect the optimal policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolution of a perturbed flame interface induced by shock waves occurs frequently in natural phenomena and in engineering applications. In practice, spatial inhomogeneity can exist and have a significant impact on the interface development in the real world. On the other hand, the effect of the chemical reaction on the flame interface evolution is still not clear. Therefore, in the present study, the evolution of a novel configuration of interaction between a planar premixed flame interface and a straight incident shock wave in inhomogeneous medium is studied numerically by solving the two-dimensional, time-dependent, reactive, and compressible Navier–Stokes equations with a high-order numerical scheme. A series of numerical cases are designed such that the amplitude of density perturbation σ, representing the effect of medium inhomogeneity, and the activation energy Ea, representing the effect of chemical reaction, can be varied independently. The result shows a unique dual-spike structure of flame interface during the interaction in inhomogeneous medium, which is different from the conventional spike–bubble structure during the interaction in homogeneous medium. For the range of σ and Ea considered, when Ea is fixed, σ is found to appreciably affect the growth of mixing zone area on the flame interface. This is because larger σ leads to stronger vortices and subsequently results in a nonlinear growth rate in the area of mixing zone. In contrast, when σ is fixed, the impact of Ea on the growth of mixing zone area on the flame interface is mainly manifested as the local consumption of reactants and changes of the flame thickness. Similarly, a high reactivity (small Ea) results in a nonlinear growth rate of the mixing zone area. Finally, for the cases in the range in which the growth rate of mixing zone area is linear, an empirically mathematic model, involved in activation energy (Ea) and inhomogeneity (σ) as independent variables, is proposed to reasonably predict the growth rate of mixing zone area in the reactive and inhomogeneous medium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A long-lasting and efficient method of managing obesity and therapeutic associated comorbidities is bariatric surgery. However, a debated comparison between one-anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) and sleeve gastrectomy is still essential (SG). The goal of this study is to evaluate outcomes using RCT and NRCT from 2015 to 2022. Methods: By contrasting the OAGB and SG for bariatric surgery from January 2015 to September 2022, an RCT and NRCT were prospectively gathered using the PubMed, Cochrane Library, and MEDLINE databases of published research. This meta-statistical analysis was carried out in RevMan 5.4, and the best effect model was selected based on heterogeneity. Results: Twelve retrospective studies describing 6344 patients (3725 OAGB and 2619 SG) satisfied the inclusion criteria. A statistically significant result was in %EWL first year (MD = 8.03, 95% CI: 4.54–11.52, P < 0.05), second year (MD = 8.94, 95% CI: 2.95–14.94, P < 0.05), third year (MD = 8.93, 95% CI: 5.75–12.10, P < 0.05), fourth year (MD = 15.09, 95% CI:0.87–29.31, P < 0.05), and fifth year (MD = 14.25, 95% CI: 5.34, P < 0.05). OAGB was associated with a lower rate of remission in dyslipidemia, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hemorrhage. However, OAGB increased the incidence of GERD and leakage. Conclusions: In terms of weight loss and comorbidity remission, OAGB is more effective than SG, although postoperative consequences are rather comparable between the two methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of different types of physiotherapy interventions in people with Parkinson's disease (PD). Design: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Methods: Five databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL and Web of Science Core Collection) were searched for relevant RCTs published from database inception to July 14, 2022. Reviewers independently screened the literature, extracted data, and assessed the literature quality according to the Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias Tool and PEDro Scale. This meta-analysis was conducted using RevMan 5.4.1 and reported in compliance with the PRISMA statement. Results: Forty-two RCTs with 2,530 participants were included. Across all types of physiotherapy, strength training, mind-body exercise, aerobic exercise, and non-invasive brain stimulation (NiBS) were effective in improving motor symptoms as measured by the (Movement Disorders Society-) Unified PD Scale, whereas balance and gait training (BGT) and acupuncture were not. The pooled results showed that the change in mind-body exercise (MD = −5.36, 95% CI [−7.97 to −2.74], p <.01, I 2 = 68%) and NiBS (MD = −4.59, 95% CI [−8.59 to −0.59], p =.02, I 2 = 78%) reached clinical threshold, indicating clinically meaningful improvements. Considering the effectiveness of the interventions on motor symptoms, balance, gait and functional mobility, mind-body exercise was recommended the most. Conclusions: Exercise appears to be a better form of physiotherapy than NiBS and acupuncture for improving motor function. Mind-body exercise showed beneficial effects on motor symptoms, balance, gait and functional mobility in people with PD, and is worthy of being promoted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A magnesium aluminum bimetallic organic framework derivative (MgAl-DHBDC/LDH composite) was prepared by etching MgAl bimetallic MOF template and used to remove U(VI) in aqueous solution. Compared to MgAl-DHBDC, the stability, dispersibility and removal ratio of U(VI) with MgAl-DHBDC/LDH were improved significantly over a wide pH range. The adsorption of uranium by MgAl-DHBDC/LDH was mainly multilayer physical adsorption, and the adsorption process was a spontaneous endothermic process. Moreover, the removal ratio of U(VI) by the MgAl-DHBDC/LDH composite remained above 90% after 4 cycles, indicating good regeneration performance. The MgAl-DHBDC/LDH composite shows great potential in the remediation of radionuclide uranium wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The existence of traveling waves to general predator–prey systems is an interesting and ongoing problem, and predator–prey systems that the predator spreads faster than the prey are the major focus of the previous research. In this paper, we are concerned with the existence of traveling waves to predator–prey system with the density death function of the predator when the predator is stationary. First of all, by the unstable manifold theorem, we show that pursuit and evasion waves do not exist for any wave speeds c, as well as invasion waves do not exist for any wave speeds c ⩽ 0 . Then, with the aid of the shooting argument, Wazewski theorem, LaSalle’s invariance principle and sophisticated analyses, we establish the existence of invasion waves for wave speed c > 0 , which partially answers the open problem proposed in Wu (Comput. Math. Appl. 76(5):1139-1160, 2018). Finally, we apply the existence results to Yodzis predator–prey system with Holling type-III functional response and then find a new phenomenon different from previous results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The performance of organic‐inorganic hybrid solar cells (HSCs) can be improved by modifying the hole transport layer (HTL). Poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) is the most active HTL material in organic‐inorganic HSCs and has been widely studied. Nevertheless, charge transfer in PEDOT:PSS is limited and inefficient due to the presence of the weak ionic conductor PSS. Moreover, the working function of the PEDOT:PSS film and the passivation of the PSS at the Si/PEDOT:PSS interface play a crucial role in carrier separation. The focus of this work is to explore a universal modification method to simultaneously achieve improved charge transport and interfacial passivation capability when using PEDOT:PSS as HTL. By combining bilayer design and simple solution posttreatment, the direct current conductivity (σdc) and work function of the HTL based on PEDOT:PSS are increased to 765 S cm−1 and 5.00 eV, respectively. The organic‐inorganic HSCs prepared using this approach achieve a photovoltaic conversion efficiency (PCE) of 12.33%, achieving a 16.54% improvement over untreated devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recent emergence of non‐fullerene acceptors (NFAs) has energized the field of organic photodiodes (OPDs) and made major breakthroughs in their critical photoelectric characteristics. Yet, stabilizing inverted NF‐OPDs remains challenging because of the intrinsic degradation induced by improper interfaces. Herein, a tin ion‐chelated polyethyleneimine ethoxylated (denoted as PEIE‐Sn) is proposed as a generic cathode interfacial layer (CIL) of NF‐OPDs. The chelation between tin ions and nitrogen/oxygen atoms in PEIE‐Sn contributes to the interface compatibility with efficient NFAs. The PEIE‐Sn can effectively endow the devices with optimized cascade alignment and reduced interface defects. Consequently, the PEIE‐Sn‐OPD exhibits properties of anti‐environmental interference, suppressed dark current, and accelerated interfacial electron extraction and transmission. As a result, the unencapsulated PEIE‐Sn‐OPD delivers high specific detection and fast response speed and shows only slight attenuation in photoelectric performance after exposure to air, light, and heat. Its superior performance outperforms the incumbent typical counterparts (ZnO, SnO2, and PEIE as the CILs) from metrics of both stability and photoelectric characteristics. This finding suggests a promising strategy for stabilizing NF‐OPDs by designing appropriate interface layers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new 3-methylpyridyl pendant-arms Cu(II)-Zn(II) hetero-binuclear complex was synthesized by condensation reaction of 3,3′-((ethane-1,2-diylbis((pyridin-2-ylmethyl)azanediyl))bis(methylene))bis(2-hydroxy-5-methylbenzaldehyde) (H2 L) and propane diamine in the presence of metal ions. The structure was characterized by IR spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy, ES-MS spectroscopy and X-ray single-crystal diffraction. The crystal structure reveals that the complex crystallizes in hexagonal, space group P63 / m, with a = 1. 982 18(17) nm, b = 1. 982 18(17) nm and c = 1. 839 4(2) nm. The coordination environment of Zn(II) and Cu(II) in complex can be described as approximately square pyramid, where the apical positions are occupied by acetate radical. Two metal centers are equivalently bridged by the phenolic oxygens and an acetate radical with the intermetallic separation of 0. 289 7 nm. The interaction between the complex and calf thymus DNA (CT-DNA) was measured by cyclic voltammetry and viscosity studies, which shows a weak binding activity of 6.92 ×103 mol/L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hand knob infarction induced focal weakness of contralateral hand or distal arm, only accounts for less than 1% of all ischemic strokes. To date, there is no case with pain during sleep as the onset symptoms being reported. The atypical symptoms of hand knob infarction might increase the risk of delaying treatment especially in the hyperacute phase of stroke. Case presentation: A 70-year-old man awoke from sleep due to sudden pain of his right medial wrist and presented to the emergency department with difficulty extending his right index and middle fingers within the time window of intravenous thrombolysis. But the intravenous thrombolysis was not given based on the NIHSS score (0) and atypical symptoms. MRI showed multiple DWI hyperintense lesions, including partial left hand knob area and left posterior central gyrus. CTA showed a severe focal stenosis of proximal left internal carotid artery. Conclusions: The hand knob infarction might onset with unusual pain and should be carefully inspected in patients combined with acute onset of focal hand paresis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Construction is an important sector for climate action. The construction, operation and maintenance, demolition and disposal stages of house buildings consume many resources and have a significant impact on society, the economy and the environment. To assess such efforts, we propose the emergy footprint model of house buildings, which can quantitatively analyse the ecological effect in the house buildings life cycle. The research shows the following. China's ecological efficiency of the housing sector is characterized by improvement. In the house building fifty-year life cycle, the emergy footprint of the operation and maintenance stage is the largest (75.92%), followed by the construction stage (21.95%), but the emergy footprint intensity of the latter is 4.82 times that of the former. Reducing energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions in the operation and maintenance stage is the key to reducing the life cycle emergy footprint of house buildings. The ecological impact coefficient of house buildings is negatively exponentially correlated with their service life. It reaches ecological break-even when the service period of the house building is equal to 36.73 years. If the house building is demolished after less than nine years of service, the impact is extremely unfavourable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The thermal conductivity of polymer composites could be improved through the orientation of fillers in specific directions. Here, a novel strategy to fabricate BN/Ag nanowires@Ni/epoxy composites (BN/Ag NWs@Ni/EP) to dynamically improve the in-plane or out-of-plane thermal conductivity of the composites in real-time by changing the direction of the magnetic field was investigated. The thermal conduction path was constructed by Ag NWs bridging between BN flakes. Ag NWs@Ni would be oriented in the in-plane or out-of-plane direction by changing the direction of the magnetic field. The out-of-plane or in-plane thermal conductivities of the composites were 0.824 and 0.723 W m−1K−1 at 40 wt% BN/Ag NWs@Ni content, and the corresponding TCEs were 429% and 359% respectively when Ag NWs@Ni was oriented in the out-of-plane or in-plane direction. Meanwhile, BN/Ag NWs@Ni/EP exhibited good mechanical and dielectric properties, which were beneficial for its industrial application in electronic packaging. This strategy provides the possibility for the applications that required the adjustment of the heat conduction direction in real-time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lodging is a major factor contributing to yield loss and constraining the mechanical harvesting of wheat crops. Genetic improvement through breeding effectively reduced the lodging and improved the grain yield, however, the physiological mechanisms involved in providing resistance to lodging are different in the breeding stage and are not clearly understood. The purpose of this study was to compare the differences in the lodging resistance (LR) of the wheat varieties released during the different decades and to explore the effect of the application of nitrogen (N) fertilizer on the plasticity of LR. Results: A field study was conducted during the cultivation seasons of 2019–2020 and 2020–2021, in soil supplemented with three N levels: N0 (0 kg ha–1), N180 (200 kg ha–1), and N360 (360 kg ha–1) using eight varieties of wheat released for commercial cultivation from 1950 to date. The results obtained showed that genetic improvement had significantly enhanced the LR and grain yield in wheat. In the first breeding stage (from 1950 to 1980s) the lodging resistant index increased by 15.0%, which was primarily attributed to a reduced plant height and increased contents of cellulose, Si, and Zn. In the second breeding stage (the 1990s–2020s) it increased by 172.8%, which was mainly attributed to an increase in the stem diameter, wall thickness, and the contents of K, Ca, Fe, Mn, and Cu. The application of N fertilizer improved the grain yield but reduced the LR in wheat. This was mainly due to an increase in plant height resulting in an elevation of the plant center of gravity, a decrease in the contents of cellulose, and a reduction in the area of large-sized vascular bundles in the stems, even if N supplementation increased the concentrations of K, Ca, and Si. Conclusion: Although breeding strategies improved the stem strength, the trade-off between the grain yield and LR was more significantly influenced by the addition of N. Overcoming this peculiar situation will serve as a breakthrough in improving the seed yield in wheat crops in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Satellite aerosol products are pivotal in studies of regional air quality and global climate change. Compared with accurate in situ observations, satellite measurements provide valuable large-scale atmospheric information. However, limitations such as clouds and retrieval assumptions result in a significant number of missing values in satellite aerosol optical depth (AOD) products, which severely hampers the representativeness. To address this issue, spatial interpolation of the AOD data is necessary to improve data coverage. In this study, one year of AOD observation data from the MODIS C6.1 version was applied to analyze the spatiotemporal correlated characteristics. The statistical parameters were used as dynamic interpolation weights to develop a novel interpolation method called empirical correlation weighting (ECW) based on MODIS AOD over Northern China in 2016. The ECW interpolation results were obtained at a 0.05° resolution (~5 km). The results showed that the spatial coverage of the Deep Blue (DB) and Dark Target (DT) products increased from 43.88% to 70.65% and from 15.04% to 32.62%, respectively. The reconstruction of the ECW method illustrated good agreement with original values in three cases and in two experimental areas. The mean absolute error (MAE) and root mean square error (RMSE) in the two experiments were 0.1171 and 0.0809, and 0.1212 and 0.0838, respectively, indicating that the ECW exhibited the better accuracy than ordinary Kriging (OK) and Thin Plate Spline (TPS). The AERONET validation results indicated that the values of RMSE and MAE were slightly higher after interpolation compared with those before interpolation, maintaining relatively low values, 0.241 and 0.257, 0.140 and 0.150, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared to traditional single orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) radar and OFDM communication systems, integrated OFDM radar and communication systems have the advantages of improved sharing of scarce spectrum resources, a simple hardware structure and a reduced interference between signals. In this paper, a constraint relaxation-based robust OFDM multiplexing waveform (ROW-CR) design method for integrated radar and communication systems is proposed. Considering the influence of correlated clutter and jamming signals, transmission and reception models of different system platforms are established by allocating subcarrier complex weights of different antenna signals so as to determine radar conditional mutual information and communication channel capacity parameters. Meanwhile, a restricted closed model is introduced through the limit range of the target frequency response. Then, a robust OFDM waveform optimization problem for integrated radar and communication systems is constructed by the minimax criterion, and the closed-form solution is obtained by adopting an improved method based on trace function properties and constraint relaxation, resulting in a better radar and communication performance trade-off. In addition, a parameter hierarchical optimization-based robust OFDM waveform (ROW-PHO) design method is further explored to reduce the computational complexity, and this method can also ensure a low system performance loss. Finally, the numerical simulation results verify the effectiveness of the proposed methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The uncertain delay characteristic of actuators is a critical factor that affects the control effectiveness of the active suspension system. Therefore, it is crucial to develop a control algorithm that takes into account this uncertain delay in order to ensure stable control performance. This study presents a novel active suspension control algorithm based on deep reinforcement learning (DRL) that specifically addresses the issue of uncertain delay. In this approach, a twin-delayed deep deterministic policy gradient (TD3) algorithm with system delay is employed to obtain the optimal control policy by iteratively solving the dynamic model of the active suspension system, considering the delay. Furthermore, three different operating conditions were designed for simulation to evaluate the control performance: deterministic delay, semi-regular delay, and uncertain delay. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm achieves excellent control performance under various operating conditions. Compared to passive suspension, the optimization of body vertical acceleration is improved by more than 30%, and the proposed algorithm effectively mitigates body vibration in the low frequency range. It consistently maintains a more than 30% improvement in ride comfort optimization even under the most severe operating conditions and at different speeds, demonstrating the algorithm's potential for practical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Both the lack of bird object detection datasets and the scarcity of technical references for evaluating the performance of object detection models and model lightweighting present challenges in the application of bird object detection technology. In this study, we have not only constructed the largest known bird object detection dataset, but also compared the performance of eight mainstream detection models on bird object detection tasks and proposed a feasible approach for model lightweighting in bird object detection. Our research results not only provide more accurate and comprehensive data for the field of bird detection, but also serve as a technical reference for users in selecting appropriate object detection models. The application of object detection technology has a positive auxiliary role in advancing the intelligence of bird recognition and enhancing the convenience of bird field surveys. However, challenges arise due to the absence of dedicated bird datasets and evaluation benchmarks. To address this, we have not only constructed the largest known bird object detection dataset, but also compared the performances of eight mainstream detection models on bird object detection tasks and proposed feasible approaches for model lightweighting in bird object detection. Our constructed bird detection dataset of GBDD1433-2023, includes 1433 globally common bird species and 148,000 manually annotated bird images. Based on this dataset, two-stage detection models like Faster R-CNN and Cascade R-CNN demonstrated superior performances, achieving a Mean Average Precision (mAP) of 73.7% compared to one-stage models. In addition, compared to one-stage object detection models, two-stage object detection models have a stronger robustness to variations in foreground image scaling and background interference in bird images. On bird counting tasks, the accuracy ranged between 60.8% to 77.2% for up to five birds in an image, but this decreased sharply beyond that count, suggesting limitations of object detection models in multi-bird counting tasks. Finally, we proposed an adaptive localization distillation method for one-stage lightweight object detection models that are suitable for offline deployment, which improved the performance of the relevant models. Overall, our work furnishes an enriched dataset and practice guidelines for selecting suitable bird detection models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hydroboration of alkynes with bis(pinacolato)diboron (B2pin2) using H2O or untreated H2O as a solvent is a challenging task. This work reports the aqueous N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC)-catalyzed hydroboration of alkynes with B2pin2, in which a wide range of alkynes with different functional groups are tolerated. The proposed NHC active species are formed through a nonclassical strategy in contrast to the traditional method involving deprotonation of the imidazolium salts in the presence of a base. The proposed NHC-catalyzed hydroboration process can be performed using untreated H2O as a solvent under an air atmosphere in the absence of exogenous bases. Mechanistic investigations, including control experiments, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and density functional theory calculations revealed that the NHC generated in situ is the true active species. Moreover, an in situ generated diboron-NHC adduct, which acts as a reservoir of NHC and is critical for the stability of NHC in aqueous media, was isolated and fully characterized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the advantages of negative electron affinity energy, high thermal conductivity and extreme chemical inertness, diamond thin films have attracted much attention as field emission materials. This paper re-viewed the classification of diamond films, introduced the negative electron affinity properties of hydrogenated diamond films, analyzed the factors affecting the field emission characteristics of diamond films, issued the optimization direction of field emission characteristics, and summarized the performance of field emission cathode obtained by diamond films combined with other materials reported in the literature. It is of great significance to analyze and improve field emission performance of diamond thin film devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]