Search

Rationale: The use of a frequency‐scanned digital quadrupole mass filter (QMF) with varying duty cycles shows promise for application as a high‐resolution mass analyzer design for inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS). High resolution in ICP‐MS is important to overcome isobaric polyatomic interferences. Here, we explore the possibility and the characteristics of using a digital quadrupole operating in higher stability regions for ICP‐MS. Methods: We perform computational simulations in SIMION of a digital QMF that is operated by scanning the frequency of the digital waveform at a fixed driving voltage and various duty cycles. For ions in the atomic mass range (7–238 m/z), we investigate the expected resolution, transmission, fringe field effects, and ion trajectories. We compare different characteristics between sine and digital waveform QMF. Results: Within the capability of current digital waveform generation technology, a digital QMF can produce variable mass resolution, from several hundred to more than 10 000. This mass resolution covers the low, medium, and high resolutions that are typical for sector‐field ICP‐MS. Additionally, simulations suggest that transmission of the QMF remains high at high resolution. For example, with 87.50/12.50 duty cycle (zone 4,1), resolution at 10% peak width is 10 420 for m/z 80. The transmission through the quadrupole, which is constant for all isoenergetic ions, is ~2.5%, and most ion loss is due to the defocusing effects of the fringe field. Compared to sinusoidal QMFs, ions need many fewer cycles in the digital QMF to obtain high resolution. Conclusion: The results demonstrate that the use of a frequency‐scanned, duty‐cycle‐modulated digital QMF as the mass analyzer for ICP‐MS has the potential to produce high resolution while maintaining considerable transmission, thus overcoming most spectral interferences in elemental MS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid development of 3D printing technology and the emerging applications of shape memory elastomer have greatly stimulated the research of photocurable polymers. In this work, glycerol (Gly) was polycondensed with sebacic, dodecanedioic, or tetradecanedioic acids to provide precursor polyesters with hydroxyl or carboxyl terminal groups, which were further chemically functionalized by acryloyl chloride to introduce sufficient, photocurable, and unsaturated double bonds. The chemical structures of the acrylated polyesters were characterized by FT IR and NMR spectroscopies. The photoinitiated crosslinking behavior of the acrylated polyesters under ultraviolet irradiation without the addition of any photoinitiator was investigated. The results showed that the precursor polyesters that had a greater number of terminated hydroxyls and a less branched structure obtained a relatively high acetylation degree. A longer chain of aliphatic dicarboxylic acids (ADCAs) and higher ADCA proportion lead to a relatively lower photopolymerization rate of acrylated polyesters. However, the photocured elastomers with a higher ADCA proportion or longer-chain ADCAs resulted in better mechanical properties and a lower degradation rate. The glass transition temperature (Tg) of the elastomer increased with the alkyl chain length of the ADCAs, and a higher Gly proportion resulted in a lower Tg of the elastomer due to its higher crosslinking density. Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) showed that the chain length of the ADCAs and the molar ratio of Gly to ADCAs had less of an effect on the thermal stability of the elastomer. As the physicochemical properties can be adjusted by choosing the alkyl chain length of the ADCAs, as well as changing the ratio of Gly:ADCA, the photocurable polyesters are expected to be applied in multiple fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The yak is the dominant livestock on the Tibetan plateau, providing milk, meat, fur, and income for the local residents; however growth-retarded yaks are of a high proportion and reduce the yak farming profitability. Our study found that the obstruction of energy metabolism and ATP synthesis in ruminal epithelium contributed to the growth retardation of yaks. It provided a fundamental understanding of how the energy metabolism of ruminal epithelium affected the growth retardation of yaks and provided new ideas for improving rumen health and the growth performance of growth-retarded yaks through nutritive regulation methods. Growth-retarded yaks are of a high proportion on the Tibetan plateau and reduce the economic income of farmers. Our previous studies discovered a maldevelopment in the ruminal epithelium of growth-retarded yaks, but the molecular mechanisms are still unclear. This study aimed to reveal how the proteomic profile in the ruminal epithelium contributed to the growth retardation of yaks. The proteome of the ruminal epithelium was detected using a high-resolution mass spectrometer. There were 52 proteins significantly differently expressed between the ruminal epithelium of growth-retarded yaks and growth-normal yaks, with 32 downregulated and 20 upregulated in growth-retarded yaks. Functional analysis showed the differently expressed proteins involved in the synthesis and degradation of ketone bodies (p = 0.012), propanoate metabolism (p = 0.018), pyruvate metabolism (p = 0.020), and mineral absorption (p = 0.024). The protein expressions of SLC26A3 and FTH1, enriched in the mineral absorption, were significantly downregulated in growth-retarded yaks. The key enzymes ACAT2 and HMGCS2 enriched in ketone bodies synthesis and key enzyme PCCA enriched in propanoate metabolism had lower protein expressions in the ruminal epithelium of growth-retarded yaks. The ATP concentration and relative mitochondrial DNA copy number in the ruminal epithelium of growth-normal yaks were dramatically higher than those of growth-retarded yaks (p < 0.05). The activities of citrate synthase (CS), the α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase complex (α-KGDHC), isocitrate dehydrogenase (ICD) in the tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA), and the mitochondrial respiratory chain complex (MRCC) were significantly decreased in ruminal epithelium of growth-retarded yaks compared to growth-normal yaks (p < 0.05). The mRNA expressions of COQ9, COX4, and LDHA, which are the encoding genes in MRCC I, IV and anaerobic respiration, were also significantly decreased in the ruminal epithelium of growth-retarded yaks (p < 0.05). Correlation analysis revealed that the average daily gain (ADG) was significantly positively correlated to the relative mitochondrial DNA copy number (p < 0.01, r = 0.772) and ATP concentration (p < 0.01, r = 0.728) in the ruminal epithelium, respectively. The ruminal weight was positively correlated to the relative mitochondrial DNA copy number (p < 0.05, r = 0.631) and ATP concentration in ruminal epithelium (p < 0.01, r = 0.957), respectively. The ruminal papillae had a significant positive correlation with ATP concentration in ruminal epithelium (p < 0.01, r = 0.770). These results suggested that growth-retarded yaks had a lower VFA metabolism, ketone bodies synthesis, ion absorption, and ATP synthesis in the ruminal epithelium; it also indicated that the growth retardation of yaks is related to the obstruction of cellular ATP synthesis in rumen epithelial cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nature owns the ability to construct structurally different polymers from the same monomers. While polymers can be classified as covalent polymers (CPs) and supramolecular polymers (SPs), it is still difficult to synthesize CPs and SPs using same monomers like nature do. Herein, M1 with two diazo salts on both the ends was designed. Additionally, hydroquinone was chosen to be M2 for the existence of two hydroxyl groups. When mixing at room temperature, M1 and M2 self‐assembled to SPs via N…H hydrogen bonds. In another way, upon the exposure to ultraviolet irradiation when blending M1 with M2, CPs were fabricated in the presence of covalent bonds. The excellent thermal stability of CPs was determined by TGA and DSC, while the great corrosion resistance of covalent polymers was detected by acid or alkali immersion. In this way, constructing two kinds of polymers using the same monomers was successfully achieved. This shows tremendous potential in fields of polymer science, supramolecular chemistry, which would boom the development of polymers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The effects of genes on the development of intracranial aneurysms (IAs) remain to be elucidated, and reliable blood biomarkers for diagnosing IAs are yet to be established. This study aimed to identify genes associated with IAs pathogenesis and explore their diagnostic value by analyzing IAs datasets, conducting vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) experiments, and performing blood detection. Methods: IAs datasets were collected and the differentially expressed genes were analyzed. The selected genes were validated in external datasets. Autophagy was induced in VSMC and the effect of selected genes was determined. The diagnostic value of selected gene on the IAs were explored using area under curve (AUC) analysis using IAs plasma samples. Results: Analysis of 61 samples (32 controls and 29 IAs tissues) revealed a significant increase in expression of ADORA3 compared with normal tissues using empirical Bayes methods of "limma" package; this was further validated by two external datasets. Additionally, induction of autophagy in VSMC lead to upregulation of ADORA3. Conversely, silencing ADORA3 suppressed VSMC proliferation and autophagy. Furthermore, analysis of an IAs blood sample dataset and clinical plasma samples demonstrated increased ADORA3 expression in patients with IA compared with normal subjects. The diagnostic value of blood ADORA3 expression in IAs was moderate when analyzing clinical samples (AUC: 0.756). Combining ADORA3 with IL2RB or CCR7 further enhanced the diagnostic ability for IAs, with the AUC value over 0.83. Conclusions: High expression of ADORA3 is associated with IAs pathogenesis, likely through its promotion of VSMC autophagy. Furthermore, blood ADORA3 levels have the potential to serve as an auxiliary diagnostic biomarker for IAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on how thermal exposure affects the microstructure and mechanical properties of the Ti–48Al–3Nb–1.5Ta (at. %) alloy, which is prepared via powder hot isostatic pressing (P–HIP), is essential since this low-density alloy shows promise for use in high-temperature applications, particularly for aero-engines, which require long-term stable service. In this study, a P–HIP Ti–48Al–3Nb–1.5Ta (at. %) alloy was exposed to high temperatures for long durations. The phase, microstructure and mechanical properties of the P–HIP Ti–48Al–3Nb–1.5Ta alloy after thermal exposure under different conditions were analyzed using XRD, SEM, EBSD, EPMA, TEM, nanomechanical testing and tensile testing. The surface scale is composed of oxides and nitrides, primarily Al2O3, TiO2, and TiN, among which Al2O3 is preferentially generated and then covered by rapidly growing TiO2 as the thermal exposure duration increases. The nitrides appear later than the oxides and exist between the oxides and the substrate. With increasing exposure temperature and duration, the surface scale becomes more continuous, TiO2 particles grow larger, and the oxide layer thickens or even falls off. The addition of Ta and Nb can improve the oxidation resistance because Ta5+ and Nb5+ replace Ti4+ in the rutile lattice and weaken O diffusion. Compared with the P–HIP Ti–48Al–3Nb–1.5Ta alloy, after thermal exposure, the grain size does not increase significantly, and the γ phase increases slightly (by less than 3%) with the decomposition of the α2 phase. With increasing thermal exposure duration, the γ phase exhibits discontinuous coarsening (DC). Compared with the P–HIP Ti–48Al–3Nb–1.5Ta alloy, the hardness increases by about 2 GPa, the tensile strength increases by more than 50 MPa, and the fracture strain decreases by about 0.1% after thermal exposure. When the depth extends from the edge of the thermally exposed specimens, the hardness decreases overall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alginate oligosaccharides are a kind of low molecular weight polymer composed of 2~10 monosaccharide molecules linked by the same or different glycosidic bonds. Alginate lyase is an important tool for the enzymatic preparation of AOS. AOS prepared by the enzymatic method is superior to AOS prepared by other methods in purity, performance and structure. In this paper, the origin, structure and enzymatic properties of alginate lyase were reviewed, and the applications of alginate lyase in aquaculture, such as feed additive, microalgae cultivation, immune regulation, antioxidant and antibacterial, were summarized. The research direction of alginate lyase and the application prospect of alginate lyase in aquaculture were prospected, which provided reference for the application of alginate lyase and AOS in aquaculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Physical activity, a first-line approach for the treatment of non-gestational hypertension globally, has been shown to benefit most pregnant women in many respects. The benefits and risks of prenatal physical activity in complicated pregnancies, such as preeclampsia and chronic hypertension, require further investigation. It is worth conducting studies to address questions about physical activity during pregnancy in women with chronic hypertension, such as the benefits and risks, frequency, duration, and intensity. This prospective cohort study aims to investigate whether moderate-intensity daily physical activity reduces ambulatory blood pressure in pregnant women with chronic hypertension. Methods: Pregnant women with chronic hypertension at 11+0 to 13+6 gestational weeks will be recruited from the outpatient clinic and divided into moderate- and light-intensity physical activity groups according to the intensity of the 7-day physical activity monitored using the model wGT3X-BT accelerometer. 24-h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring will be performed at enrollment as a baseline and will be repeated in the second and third trimesters. The primary outcome is the difference in the change in 24-h ambulatory systolic blood pressure from the first to the third trimester between the groups. Secondary outcomes include the difference of change in other ambulatory (24-h diastolic, daytime, and nighttime) and office blood pressure variables from the first to the second and third trimesters, the incidence of severe hypertension (≥160/110 mmHg), and changes in the type and dosage of antihypertensive medication. The primary and secondary outcomes related to changes in blood pressure from baseline to the second and third trimesters between the groups will be analyzed using Student's independent t-test or the Mann–Whitney U test. Discussion: This cohort study will provide a basis for randomized controlled trials and verify an easily achieved, economical, and non-fetotoxic approach for adjuvant blood pressure management in pregnant women with chronic hypertension. Registry: This study is registered with the Chinese Clinical Trials Registry (NO. ChiCTR2200062094). Date Registered: 21/07/2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25 (OH) D3) is crucial for follicular development. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the level of 25 (OH) D3 in endometriosis patients, pregnancy outcomes of in vitro fertilization (IVF), and the underlying mechanism. Methods: The 25 (OH) D3 levels in serum and follicular Fluid (FF) samples were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Clinical features and pregnancy outcomes of endometriosis patients were also compared between the deficient group (< 20 ug/ml) and the adequate group (≥ 20 ug/ml). The effects of 25 (OH) D3 on the proliferation and cell cycle of human ovarian granulosa cells were respectively detected by CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry (FCM). The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in granulosa cells of endometriosis and tubal infertility patients were screened from GEO database. The effects of 25 (OH) D3 on the expressions of CDKN2D, PPARA, TGFB2 and THBD were determined using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot. Results: The levels of 25 (OH) D3 in serum and FF samples were decreased in endometriosis patients. The deficient group had fewer embryos that can be transferred, lower quality embryos and lower clinical pregnancy rates. Adequate 25 (OH) D3 levels in FF samples was a protective factor for live birth outcome in endometriosis patients. 25 (OH) D3 enhanced the proliferation capacity of granulosa cells (the concentration of 10 nM was the most significant) and increased the proportion of G2M + S phase cells. The expression of CDKN2D was decreased and TGFB2 and THBD were significantly upregulated. Conclusions: 25 (OH) D3 deficiency may be associated with poor IVF pregnancy outcomes in endometriosis patients. 25 (OH) D3 promotes ovarian granulosa cell proliferation by promoting the ability of cells to divide, and may accelerate cell cycle progression by up-regulating THBD and down-regulating CDKN2D expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a malignant hematological neoplastic disease. Autocrine or paracrine cytokines released by leukemic cells regulate the proliferation of AML cells. It is uncertain whether cytokines can indicate whether patients with AML are in remission with chemotherapy. The goal of this study was to evaluate the levels of Th1/Th2/Th17 cytokines in AML patients before and after chemotherapy to determine whether the cytokine levels could predict disease remission after chemotherapy. It was found that the levels of IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, TNF-α, TNF-β, IL-17F, and IL-22 were significantly increased at the time of AML diagnosis in patients who achieved remission after two chemotherapy treatments (P < 0.05). After chemotherapy, the cytokine levels were reduced in patients with remission, while the levels of IL-6 and IL-8 were raised in patients without remission (P < 0.05). A comparison of cytokine levels before and after chemotherapy in patients who achieved remission showed areas under the curve (AUCs) of 0.69 for both IL-6 and IL-8. In addition, a comparison of the remission and non-remission groups after chemotherapy showed an AUC of 0.77 for IL-6. We then calculated the cutoff value using receiver operating characteristic curves. Values of IL-6 < 9.99 and IL-8 < 8.46 at the time of diagnosis were predictive of chemotherapy success and remission, while IL-6 > 14.89 at diagnosis suggested that chemotherapy would not be successful and remission would not be achieved. Multifactorial analysis showed that age, Neu, IL-6, and IL-8 were independent risk factors for AML prognosis, and IL-6 (OR = 5.48, P = 0.0038) was superior to age (OR = 3.36, P = 0.0379), Neu (OR = 0.28, P = 0.0308), IL-8 (OR = 0.0421, P = 0.0421). In conclusion, IL-6 levels were found to be predictive of the likelihood of remission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bio-based chemicals synthesized by lignin offer a promising pathway of bioenergy utilization to achieve the target of the Paris Agreement with <2 °C of climate warming temperature. Recently, numerous efforts have been made in lignin biorefinery, including lignin extraction, separation, depolymerization and product separation, among which each subprocess has a profound effect on the overall process. The right configuration and integration implementation of biorefinery subprocesses determine the ultimate efficiency and cost. This review provides an in-depth mechanism of understanding subprocesses aiming to provide insight into the right configurations and integration implementation of subprocesses and early commercialization of lignin biorefinery. This review includes (1) elucidation of the lignin biosynthesis pathway, (2) dissection of the mechanism of biorefinery subprocesses with intelligible graphical overviews and summary, (3) analysis of tech-economic viability from the view of market potential and each biorefinery subprocess, and (4) discussion of challenge and perspective with the emphasis on gene engineering and start-up time of lignin-based bioenergy popularization. The current results indicate that more efforts should be made toward the gene engineering regulation and integration implementation of subprocesses to promote the early commercialization of lignin biorefinery considering that the delayed use of bioenergy may reduce carbon emission mitigation capacity and increase global food risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summer precipitation over the Tibetan Plateau (TP) has experienced obvious changes in recent decades, with significantly increased trends observed over the northern and western regions during 1961–2020. Results indicate that there are two pathways linking them to the reduced Arctic sea ice from late spring (April and May) to early summer (June and July). First, decreased sea ice in late spring favors wet and dry soil over the eastern Caspian Sea and northeastern TP by stimulating anomalous wavelike patterns and modulating snow melting. Furthermore, the soil moisture anomalies during late spring could maintain to July because of memory effects, strengthen the midlatitude Silk Road pattern, and contribute to the formation of a dipole mode around TP, characterized by a west cyclone and an east anticyclone. Second, through exciting an anomalous Rossby wave directly spreading from the Arctic to TP, a similar dipole pattern on 500-hPa geopotential height could be associated with the decline of sea ice in early summer. Consequently, enhanced southwesterly winds shown with the west cyclone cause more water vapor input to the western TP, while easterly anomalies along with the east anticyclone inhibit climatological westerly winds and prevent water vapor from outputting. This dipole pattern finally brings more moisture accumulated in the western and northern TP and increases the precipitation. This study links heterogeneous changes in summer precipitation over TP to Arctic sea ice changes and provides insights for further investigation into whether the TP could serve as a bridge connecting the Arctic and tropical climates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) is an overwhelming social problem in children and adolescents. Focusing on the change of NSSI behavior, including onset, cessation, and maintenance, is crucial to developing effective prevention and intervention strategies. This study explored the effect of mental health status (depressive and anxiety symptoms) and family function on NSSI.Methods: The study sample comprised 7554 children and adolescents based on the first two rounds of the Chengdu Positive Child Development (CPCD) dataset in China. Depressive and anxiety symptoms measured mental health status. The self-reported questionnaires also assessed NSSI behaviors and family function. The interrelationship between NSSI behaviors, mental health status, and family function was evaluated. Logistic regression and linear regression were performed to examine the interrelationship between mental health status, family function and NSSI behaviors. Sensitivity analysis was performed.Results: In this study, 2167 (28.69%) participants reported NSSI at baseline and 2101 (27.81%) at follow-up. Depression, anxiety, and family function were salient influential factors in the prevalence, onset, and cessation of NSSI. Parents' accompaniment showed a significant effect on the prevalence of NSSI.Conclusion: Depression, anxiety, family function, and parents' accompaniment are all associated with NSSI behaviors. Strategies targeting mental health status and family function could effectively protect children and adolescents from NSSI behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The multiple mechanisms of entrepreneurial intention are still an open issue, and few have explored whether the relationship between entrepreneurial intention and proactive personality is influenced by entrepreneurial passion. This study aims to reveal the mediation role of entrepreneurial passion between proactive personality and entrepreneurial intention with the application of the classic structural equation modeling. A questionnaire survey was conducted on Chinese undergraduates and 647 questionnaires were collected for the further analysis. The main findings shed light on the mechanisms that underpin entrepreneurial passion and contribute to the growing body of knowledge on entrepreneurial intention and will raise implications for both academic entrepreneurial theory and practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, with the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence and the rapid development of technology, various sports sectors have benefited from technological and scientific advancements. The technical and scientific components that have permeated different sports sectors are becoming progressively less important as technology developments and the IoT requires disconnected. To address this problem, this study proposed a based deep learning technique for the tennis sports industry and the implications of smart athletes' fitness using the support vector machine (SVM) algorithm. The three basic categories of IoT-based smart fitness are player trackers, which include wearable and non-wearable sensors, movement analysis, and player applications. The skills and strategies of tennis players have improved through the use of sports products, and people have come to value physical education more as education has expanded. The development of a smart tennis system is meant to address the slow detection and unpredictable player and coaching staff movements of the traditional game of tennis. The background of the video is rebuilt using a median filter algorithm, and its target is located using an inter-frame difference technique to identify the track's designated shoulder marker point. Using an enhanced SVM, it creates a tennis service model for evaluating and examining marker point tracks. The experimental results compare the proposed method with different machine learning methods such as decision tree (DT), random forest (RF), deep neural network (DNN), and recurrent neural network (RNN) algorithms. The classification achieved excellent performance by the player motions, and the SVM is better than the other deep learning. The test results proposed scheme the tennis service model achieves a classification accuracy of 97.5% in accurately categorizing different types of service trajectories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the development trend of smart-green cities, focusing on seven megacities in China. It addresses three issues that are common in urban green development, including the relationship between "smart" and "green", the scenario analysis of green development, and the uniqueness of megacities in green development. System dynamics modeling is applied. The simulation results reveal an "S"-shaped development curve for both aspects, indicating a gradual and accelerating growth pattern. Notably, the curve representing energy consumption lags behind the curve for smart city development by approximately three years. After 2030, when the smart city construction is expected to be completed, the proportion of the tertiary industry and investment in science and technology will play a significant role in limiting energy consumption. This study concludes by providing policy suggestions, including the need for long-term plans with phased targets, considering the specificity of megacities, and addressing external influences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, and is characterized by insidious onset, rapid progression, and poor prognosis. Immunotherapy is a first-line treatment for advanced HCC. The identification of immune-related prognostic markers may be an effective strategy to predict and improve clinical response rate of immunotherapy. Methods: The DESeq2, edgeR, and limma R packages were used to compare the transcriptomes of HCC with different prognoses. Cancer-related databases such as UALCAN, TNMplot, GEPIA, muttarget and Human Protein Atlas (HPA), and the Kaplan–Meier Plotter platform were used to analyze the relationship between CLDN18 and the clinical characteristics, as well as prognosis of HCC. The co-expressed genes of CLDN18 were obtained from LinkedOmics platform, and GO functional enrichment and KEGG pathway analysis were performed. The CIBERSORT, TIMER, Timer 2.0 and TISIDB algorithms were used to analyze immune infiltration. Results: CLDN18 was differentially expressed in HCC patients with different prognoses, and its expression level in PBMC was positively correlated with the stage of BCLC. In addition, CLDN18 was significantly overexpressed in HCC tumor tissues compared to adjacent non-tumor tissues, which was consistent with PBMC sequencing results and immunohistochemical data from human protein profiles. CLDN18 was also positively correlated with HCC staging and grading, and high expression levels of CLDN18 predicted shorter overall survival. Functional annotation of CLDN18 in HCC revealed enrichment of the cellular senescence and protein activation cascade, along with biological processes such as cell cycle, inflammatory response, and cellular ketone metabolism. In addition, CLDN18 was also associated with tumor infiltrating immune cells, suppressive immune cell markers, T lymphocyte depletion and activation of HCC, and low expression of CLDN18 was associated with higher CD8 + T cell infiltration and better survival rates. Conclusions: CLDN18 is a potential prognostic marker and immunotherapeutic target for HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hollow hierarchical structure Cu@S and CuFe0.5@S catalysts were successfully synthesized through the "dissolution-recrystallization" (D-R) method for the reverse water gas shift reaction (RWGS). The encapsulated catalysts had a hierarchical porous structure and better dispersion of Cu particles than the Cu-S and CuFe0.5-S samples prepared via the conventional impregnation method. Furthermore, CuFe0.5-S and CuFe0.5@S catalysts showed higher CO2 conversion and 100% selectivity of CO at the entire temperature range investigated in this work compared to the monometallic catalysts Cu-S and Cu@S. Interestingly, the reaction activity of all the samples increased according to the sequence: CuFe0.5@S > CuFe0.5-S > Cu@S > Cu-S at 400–550 °C under atmospheric pressure. These results indicate that the higher dispersion of encapsulation structure and the enhanced surface basicity derived from the addition of Fe play crucial roles in enhancing the catalytic performance of Cu-based catalysts in the RWGS reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aimed to develop a scale assessing knowledge about behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (KS-BPSD) among Chinese formal caregivers and to investigate its psychometric properties and factorial structure. The scale was generated with a systematic development process, and 229 formal caregivers working at nursing homes were recruited to construct and assess the psychometric properties of the scale. The preliminary scale was reviewed by an expert panel and items were selected based on item discrimination, difficulty, and item-total correlation. The final KS-BPSD version consisted of 12 items, loaded into three factors (i.e., Disease Characteristics, Care and Risks, and Treatment Needs) following principal component analysis (PCA). The KS-BPSD showed good test-retest reliability, internal consistency, as well as construct and concurrent validity. The 12-item KS-BPSD was found to have high reliability and preliminary validity in assessing the level of knowledge about patient's BPSD among formal Chinese caregivers in nursing homes. KS-BPSD is a reliable tool to address the knowledge discrepancies and support needs among dementia caregivers, helping to develop and evaluate educational programs in the management of patient's BPSD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A nano-hollow zeolite-encapsulating ultra-fine Fe nanoparticle catalyst denoted as Fe@n-hS-HT was successfully synthesized through a simple water steam treatment of the Fe@n-hS catalyst prepared by the "dissolution–recrystallization" (D-R) method. The Fe@n-hS-HT catalyst had a hierarchical porous structure and a high dispersion of Fe2O3 particles with a size of 3.4 nm. Furthermore, the results of several characterization methods, such as XRD, HAADF-STEM, and H2-TPR, further demonstrated the transformation of the skeleton Fe in Fe@n-hS into Fe2O3, which was uniformly dispersed in the Fe@n-hS-HT catalyst. Meanwhile, Fe@n-hS-HT had significantly higher selectivity and yield of C2-C4= than the reference catalysts Fe/S and Fe@n-hS, which provided strong proof for the confined catalysis of the metal@zeolite catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The prevalence of digital reading and the widespread use of social media among young people demands systematic exploration of the effects of social media addiction on students' reading practice. This paper aims to explore the effects of social media addiction on reading preferences, in-depth reading and sustained attention. Design/methodology/approach: Survey and analysis methods are employed. Findings: For many, social media provides an ideal platform of connection and expression; however, prolonged social media use holds the danger of becoming a behavioral addiction that threatens to undermine one's reading practice. Social media use tends to have a more significant impact on leisure reading than on academic reading. Obsessive engagement with social media hurts reading concentration and in-depth reading. While a majority (70.4%) of those surveyed believed that chronic social media use carries more harm than good on their learning, only half (50.1%) agreed or strongly agreed that today's students are too indulged in social media and need forceful control of it. Originality/value: Implications of the effects of social media on reading practice are discussed, and directions for future research are suggested. It is likely that social media will continue to be seductive, attracting new generations of young people. Future research should explore prevention strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several billion-ton Neogene oil fields have been successfully discovered in the middle Huanghekou sag over the past few years. However, the source of the crude oil needs to be clarified, and the relevant oil-source correlation was less carried out. Six source rocks of the third member of the Paleocene Shahejie Formation (Es3) from five wells and sixteen Neogene crude oil samples from nine wells in the middle Huanghekou sag were investigated for the oil-source correlation with the biomarkers and carbon and hydrogen isotopes of saturated hydrocarbon monomers. The distribution characteristics of n-alkanes, C19/C23 ratio of tricyclic terpanes, long-chain tricyclic terpene ratios (ETR), C24 tetracyclic terpane to C26 tricyclic terpene, and distribution characteristics of conventional steranes suggest that the Es3 parent material is of a mixed-source input from terrestrial higher plants and aquatic phytoplankton. The gammacerane to C30 hopane ratio is low, ranging from 0.094 to 0.134, with a mean value of 0.118; the Pr/Ph ratio is less than 1.5. The Neogene oils show the characteristics of a saturated hydrocarbon biomarker similar to Es3. The carbon and hydrogen isotopes of saturated hydrocarbon monomers also corroborate the oil-source correlation from the depositional environment and parent material source, which characterize the low salinity of the water during the Es3 sedimentary period, which was a brackish or a freshwater delta deposition under weak oxidation–weak reduction conditions. The parity dominance of CPI and OEP values (both greater than 1), higher ratios of Ts/Tm (1.174 to 1.383, mean 1.278) and the C29Ts/C29 norhopane, high values of diahopane and diasterane contents (C30diaH/C30H, C27diaS/C27S), and hopane and sterane isomerization parameters (%22S, %20S, %ββ) confirm that the Es3 source rock samples are mature enough to provide crude oil for the middle Huanghekou sag. The biomarker characteristics of regional Neogene crude oil are significantly different from those of Es4 source rocks in the surrounding depressions (sags), indicating the Es4 strata's absence in the middle Huanghekou sag. Suitable traps need to be discovered around the hydrocarbon-generating center of the Es3 source rock for oil and gas exploration in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment to investigate the two-phase closed loop thermosyphon (TPCLT) to cooling the compact superconducting magnet has been performed. This study is motivated mainly by our development of cryogenic cooling for a superconducting cyclotron magnet system. In the two-phase closed loop thermosyphon system, the cooling of the cold mass (27 kg copper block) from room temperature to 4 K is achieved in three stages by refilling subsequently the loop with Nitrogen (80 K), Neon (30 K) and Helium (4 K) based on the different boiling point of each of the gases. The cooldown process and efficiency were analyzed and compared with directly conductor cooling method. The results show that the TPCLT cooling method can reduce the liquid helium and shorten the cooling time, so it has a potential to achieve lower energy consumption and higher efficiency for cooling compact a superconducting magnet (the weight large than 100 kg) in practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Detection of kilonova AT2017gfo proves that binary neutron star mergers can be the dominant contributor to the production of heavy elements in our Universe. Neutrinos from the radioactive decay of heavy elements would be the most direct messengers of merger ejecta. Based on r -process nucleosynthesis calculations, we study the neutrinos emitted from the β-decay of r -process elements and find that about half of the β-decay energy is carried away by neutrinos. The neutrino energy generation rate remains approximately constant at the early stage (t ≲ 1 s) and then decays as a power-law function with an index of −1.3. This powers a short-lived fast neutrino burst with a peak luminosity of ∼1049 erg s−1 in the early stage. Observation of neutrinos from neutron star mergers will be an important step towards understanding the properties of extremely neutron-rich nuclei and r -process nucleosynthesis, since the dominant contribution to the early time neutrino production is from nuclides near the r -process path. The typical neutrino energy is ≲8 MeV, which is within the energy ranges of the water-Cherenkov neutrino detectors such as Super-Kamiokande and future Hyper-Kamiokande, but the extremely low neutrino flux and event rate in our local Universe challenge the detection of the neutrino flashes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spin qubits based on silicon metal-oxide semiconductor (Si-MOS) quantum dots (QDs) are promising platforms for large-scale quantum computers. To control spin qubits in QDs, electric dipole spin resonance (EDSR) has been most commonly used in recent years. By delocalizing an electron across a double quantum dots charge state, "flopping-mode" EDSR has been realized in Si/SiGe QDs. Here, we demonstrate a flopping-mode spin qubit in a Si-MOS QD via Elzerman single-shot readout. When changing the detuning with a fixed drive power, we achieve s-shape spin resonance frequencies, an order of magnitude improvement in the spin Rabi frequencies, and virtually constant spin dephasing times. Our results offer a route to large-scale spin qubit systems with higher control fidelity in Si-MOS QDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of cities as products of human society is in line with cyclical law. This study applies the system dynamics model to construct a city development model for Beijing, China's capital city, and analyzes the simulation results from an ecological perspective. The results suggest that Beijing is still in the process of transitioning from fast development to maturity. This trend will continue until the mid-2030s, and this transition process will be composed of several periods. The motivation for development in each period is different. The industry will be the main driving force in the foreseeable future, and the lifespan of each period is approximately 10 years. Major events such as the Olympic Games are the key to evolution. Therefore, Beijing should exploit each event as booster for growth in the next period. Beijing is the capital city of China. Based on our research, the city is in its maturity stage and facing metropolitan issues. In China, an urban plan text contains four parts: guiding ideology, development goal, key task, and implementation path. The findings of this research should make substantial contributions to the second and third parts. We have demonstrated that Beijing is transitioning from fast development to maturity in a cyclic curve. The key motivation for city evolution is industry. Big events such as the Olympic Games are key turning points, and these two findings steer goal-making in the planning process. Moreover, this study also highlighted the tendency of urban production, living, and environment in Beijing to contribute to key task selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic pain is a significant problem that afflicts individuals and society, and for which the current clinical treatment is inadequate. In addition, the neural circuit and molecular mechanisms subserving chronic pain remain largely uncharacterized. Herein we identified enhanced activity of a glutamatergic neuronal circuit that encompasses projections from the ventral posterolateral nucleus (VPLGlu) to the glutamatergic neurons of the hindlimb primary somatosensory cortex (S1HLGlu), driving allodynia in mouse models of chronic pain. Optogenetic inhibition of this VPLGlu→S1HLGlu circuit reversed allodynia, whereas the enhancement of its activity provoked hyperalgesia in control mice. In addition, we found that the expression and function of the HCN2 (hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated channel 2) were increased in VPLGlu neurons under conditions of chronic pain. Using in vivo calcium imaging, we demonstrated that downregulation of HCN2 channels in the VPLGlu neurons abrogated the rise in S1HLGlu neuronal activity while alleviating allodynia in mice with chronic pain. With these data, we propose that dysfunction in HCN2 channels in the VPLGlu→S1HLGlu thalamocortical circuit and their upregulation occupy essential roles in the development of chronic pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) has been considered to be related to metabolic related diseases, such as hyperuricemia, obesity, and diabetes mellitus. However, whether nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is related to RBP4 is unclear. Previous studies on the relationship between NAFLD and RBP4 levels have yielded inconsistent results. Hence, this meta-analysis was aimed to clarify whether circulating RBP4 levels are in relation to the risk of NAFLD. Methods: A meta-analysis was performed by applying observational studies to evaluate circulating RBP4 levels and NAFLD. Eligible studies published up to September 23, 2022, were searched in Embase, PubMed, and Cochrane databases. Results: In this study, 17 cross-sectional studies involving 8423 participants were included. Results from a random effects model showed that circulating RBP4 levels were higher in NAFLD patients than non-NAFLD (standardized mean difference (SMD) 0.28; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 0.11–0.46, I2: 89.8%). This association was confirmed in the Yellow race. However, no significant association was noted in the Caucasian race. After excluding the morbidly obese Population from the weight loss study (n = 2), the results of the comparison remained largely unchanged (SMD 0.28; 95% CI: 0.10–0.47, I2: 90.8%). Remarkable publication bias was not found. Although considerable heterogeneity was observed among the studies, no potential sources of heterogeneity were found in the subgroup analysis. Diagnostic methods for NAFLD were determined to be a potential source of statistical heterogeneity in meta-regression. Conclusion: The findings provide evidence that NAFLD patients exhibit higher levels of circulating RBP4 compared with controls, but high heterogeneity was observed. Thus, a high RBP4 level is probably a potential risk factor for NAFLD. To confirm the causal link between NAFLD and RBP4 level of causality, further prospective cohort studies are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single cell analysis has drawn increasing interest from the research community due to its capability to interrogate cellular heterogeneity, allowing refined tissue classification and facilitating novel biomarker discovery. With the advancement of relevant instruments and techniques, it is now possible to perform multiple omics including genomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics or even proteomics at single cell level. In comparison with other omics studies, single‐cell metabolomics (SCM) represents a significant challenge since it involves many types of dynamically changing compounds with a wide range of concentrations. In addition, metabolites cannot be amplified. Although difficult, considerable progress has been made over the past decade in mass spectrometry (MS)‐based SCM in terms of processing technologies and biochemical applications. In this review, we will summarize recent progress in the development of promising MS platforms, sample preparation methods and SCM analysis of various cell types (including plant cell, cancer cell, neuron, embryo cell, and yeast cell). Current limitations and future research directions in the field of SCM will also be discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have shown an association between low serum vitamin B12 levels and the risk of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in type 2 diabetes, but the conclusions from various studies were inconsistent. Therefore, we collected relevant data from various databases to perform a meta-analysis and address the inconsistencies in these studies. We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CNKI, Wanfang and CQVIP for eligible studies published up to April 10, 2022, and performed a meta-analysis using Stata software to assess the association between serum vitamin B12 levels and DR. A total of 15 studies were included in this meta-analysis. Statistical analysis showed that serum vitamin B12 levels were significantly reduced in patients with type 2 diabetic retinopathy ,WMD 95% CI = –68.91 (–76.76, –61.06) (p <0.00001, I 2 = 88.30%). In subgroup analyses by ethnicity, an association between low serum vitamin B12 levels and DR risk was found in East Asian, South Asian and mixed populations, but not in Caucasian populations. This meta-analysis analyzed vitamin B12 in patients with type 2 diabetic retinopathy and emphasized the importance of monitoring serum vitamin B12 levels in patients with type 2 diabetic retinopathy, but this meta-analysis still has deficiencies and limitations, and more clinical studies are needed to confirm this conclusion in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the aim of improving soil fertility, it is of great significance to put forward optimal irrigation and nitrogen fertilizer application strategies for improving land productivity and alleviating non-point source pollution effects. To overcome this task, a 6-hidden layer neural network with a preference mechanism, namely Preference Neural network (PNN), has been developed in this study based on the field data from 2018 to 2020. PNN takes soil total nitrogen, organic matter, total salt, pH, irrigation time and target soil depth as input, and irrigation amount and nitrogen application rate (N rate) as output, and the prior preference matrix was used to adjust the learning of weight matrix of each layer. The outcomes indicated that the predictive accuracy of PNN for irrigation amount were (R2 = 0.913, MAE = 0.018, RMSE = 0.022), and for N rate were (R2 = 0.943, MAE = 0.009, RMSE = 0.011). The R2 predicted by PNN at the irrigation amount and N rate were 40.03% to more than 99% and 40.33% to more than 99% higher than those obtained using support vector regression (SVR), linear regression (LR), logistic regression (LOR) and traditional back propagation neural network (BPNN), respectively. In addition, compared with the neural network (Reverse Multilayer Perceptron, RMLP) with the same structure but no preference structure, the R2 of the predicted irrigation amount and N rate by PNN increased by 25.81% and 27.99%, respectively. The results showed that, through the irrigation of 93 to 102, 92 to 98 and 92 to 98 mm, along with nitrogen applications of 65 to 71, 64 to 73 and 72 to 81 kg/hm2 at 17, 59 and 87 days after sowing, respectively, the organic matter, total nitrogen, total salt content and pH of the soil would reach high fertility levels simultaneously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The present study aimed to investigate whether intratracheal dexmedetomidine combined with ropivacaine reduces the severity and incidence of postoperative sore throat after tracheal intubation under general anaesthesia. Methods: Two hundred patients with American Society of Anaesthesiologists physical status I-II who were subjected to general anaesthesia were randomly divided into four groups, namely, Group D, Group R, Group DR and Group S; these groups received intratracheal dexmedetomidine (1 µg/kg), 0.8% ropivacaine (40 mg), dexmedetomidine (1 µg/kg) combined with 0.8% ropivacaine (40 mg) and normal saline before endotracheal intubation, respectively. The primary outcomes were the incidence and grade of sore throat and hoarseness at 2 h and 24 h after surgery. Moreover, the modified Observer's Assessment of Alertness/Sedation Scale results were recorded at each time point. The secondary outcomes were intraoperative haemodynamic fluctuations, intraoperative anaesthetic drug requirements, and adverse reactions during and after surgery. The patients' vital signs before induction, before superficial anaesthesia, after superficial anaesthesia, before intubation, after intubation, and 1 min after intubation were recorded. The use of anaesthetic drugs and occurrence of adverse effects were also recorded. Results: The incidence and severity of sore throat were significantly lower in Group DR than in the other three groups 2 h after the operation, but they were only significantly lower in Group DR than in the control group 24 h after the operation. Moreover, compared with Group S and Group D, Group DR exhibited more stable haemodynamics during intubation. The doses of remifentanil and propofol were significantly lower in Group DR than in the other groups. Conclusion: The combined use of dexmedetomidine and ropivacaine for surface anaesthesia before intubation significantly reduced the incidence and severity of postoperative sore throat. This treatment also decreased anaesthetic drug requirements and intraoperative haemodynamic fluctuations and caused no adverse effects. Trial registration: This clinical research was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR1900022907, Registration date 30/04/2019). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herceptin (or trastuzumab) is an important therapeutic monoclonal antibody (mAb) used in the treatment of HER2‐positive breast cancer. Real‐time counting and characterization of Herceptin is a fundamental step in the field of disease‐related diagnosis and therapy. Solid‐state nanopore‐based biosensors have been proved to hold great potential in characterizing the properties of proteins at the single‐molecule level for in vitro diagnosis. Here, the label‐free detection and detailed translocation dynamics study of Herceptin using solid‐state nanopores are demonstrated. By constricting nanopore size close to the size of Herceptin, the detection sensitivity and temporal resolution have been significantly improved, allowing the delicate probing of the structural information of single‐molecule Herceptin. Therefore, three types of Herceptin translocation events are identified through nanopores, single‐level, multi‐level and spike‐like events, emerged at different voltages regimes, indicating the unfolding kinetics of Herceptin under electric field. The potential influence of a high electric field on complex biomolecules is highlighted and a novel prospective platform is provided for label‐free detection of single‐molecule therapeutic monoclonal antibodies via solid‐state nanopores as a miniaturized biomedical device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summer monsoon precipitation over the Tibetan Plateau (TP) has significant impacts on the ecology, economy, and Asian climate, but has exhibited anomalous spatial distribution since the early twenty-first century. To explore its distribution and attribution, this study investigated the northernmost boundary of the summer monsoon over the TP (TPSM) and the related precipitation. The TPSM and related precipitation extended poleward in the post-2000 period in response to the rising Arabian Sea surface temperature (ARB_SST) in the late spring and early summer. A warming Arabian Sea leads to the westward movement of the Indian summer monsoon (ISM) circulation and moisture convergence with a higher moisture layer, which exerts a midlatitude wave train that exhibits a dipole mode (a west cyclone and an east anticyclone) over the TP. Consequently, the west trough and southerly are strengthened, which is conducive to transporting more poleward moisture mass from the moisture layer over the ISM zone through the midwestern TP. Furthermore, it contributes to the poleward TPSM and precipitation in the northern TP by coupling with the dipole mode. These findings help explain the wetting of the Asian dryland and its effects on the Northern Hemispheric climate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability to detect biomolecules at the single‐molecule level is at the forefront of biological research, precision medicine, and early diagnosis. Recently, solid‐state nanopore sensors have emerged as a promising technique for label‐free and precise diagnosis assay. However, insufficient sensitivity and selectivity for small analytes are a great challenge for clinical diagnosis applications via solid‐state nanopores. Here, for the first time, a metal–organic cage, PCC‐57, is employed as a carrier to increase the sensitivity and selectivity of solid‐state nanopores based on the intrinsic interaction of the nanocage with biomolecules. Firstly, it is found that the carrier itself is undetectable unless bound with the target analytes and used oligonucleotides as linkers to attach PCC‐57 and target analytes. Secondly, two small analytes, oligonucleotide conjugated angiopep‐2 and polyphosphoric acid, are successfully distinguished using the molecular carrier. Finally, selectivity of nanopore detection is achieved by attaching PCC‐57 to oligonucleotide‐tailed aptamers, and the human alpha‐thrombin sample is successfully detected. It is believed that the highly designable metal–organic cage could serve as a rich carrier repository for a variety of biomolecules, facilitating single‐molecule screening of clinically relevant biomolecules based on solid‐state nanopores in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vascular complications are a major cause of illness and death in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Diabetic vascular basement membranes are enriched in fibronectin (FN), an extracellular matrix protein that amplifies inflammatory signaling in endothelial cells through its main receptor, integrin α5β1. Binding of the integrin α5 cytoplasmic domain to phosphodiesterase 4D5 (PDE4D5), which increases phosphodiesterase catalytic activity and inhibits antiinflammatory cAMP signaling, was found to mediate these effects. Here, we examined mice in which the integrin α5 cytoplasmic domain is replaced by that of α2 (integrin α5/2) or the integrin α5 binding site in PDE4D is mutated (PDE4Dmut). T1D was induced via injection of streptozotocin and hyperlipidemia induced via injection of PCSK9 virus and provision of a high-fat diet. We found that in T1D and hyperlipidemia, the integrin α5/2 mutation reduced atherosclerosis plaque size by ∼50%, with reduced inflammatory cell invasion and metalloproteinase expression. Integrin α5/2 T1D mice also had improved blood-flow recovery from hindlimb ischemia and improved biomechanical properties of the carotid artery. By contrast, the PDE4Dmut had no beneficial effects in T1D. FN signaling through integrin α5 is thus a major contributor to diabetic vascular disease but not through its interaction with PDE4D. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the poor effect of the traditional vocational education platform, it is difficult to meet the requirements of the current Internet education platform. To solve this problem, this paper designs a vocational education platform system based on blockchain and Internet of Things (IoT) technology. First, the system access control strategy based on blockchain technology is introduced into the teaching system so as to improve the security of the teaching system. Then, in order to solve the single point of failure and efficient transmission problems of access control in the IoT environment, this paper proposes an access control strategy based on main side chain cooperation. This strategy introduces a side chain to expand the blockchain and improve the data carrying capacity of the blockchain. To meet the requirements of high-speed data transmission, this paper designs an access control model suitable for the main side chain blockchain structure. Experimental results show that compared with other algorithms, the data request speed of the system in this paper is faster, and the storage space is smaller. Therefore, the proposed technology based on blockchain and IoT can meet the use requirements of vocational education platforms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At present, due to the large-scale use of different kinds of power electronic devices in the power system, the problem of harmonic pollution in the power grid is becoming more and more serious, which will lead to a serious decline in the production, transmission, and utilization rate of electric energy, overheat electrical devices, generate vibration and interference, and then affect the aging and service life of the lines. In order to effectively reduce the harmonic problems caused by different levels of the power system, it is necessary to analyze the harmonic components. In this paper, the BP neural network learning algorithm is introduced into the harmonic problems of the power system. The mapping relationship between input and output signals is obtained by using the BP neural network algorithm, and the harmonic frequency, amplitude, and phase contained in the obtained data are analyzed. According to the type of equipment with problems in the operation of the power system and the rapid diagnosis of existing defects, the problems are quickly located and the causes are analyzed. The practical results show that the BP neural network learning algorithm proposed in this paper has higher detection accuracy and analysis speed for the difficult problems in the power system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Van der Waals heterostructures offer an additional degree of freedom to tailor the electronic structure of two-dimensional materials, especially for the band-gap tuning that leads to various applications such as thermoelectric and optoelectronic conversions. In general, the electronic gap of a given system can be accurately predicted by using first-principles calculations, which is, however, restricted to a small unit cell. Here, we adopt a machine-learning algorithm to propose a physically intuitive descriptor by which the band gap of any heterostructures can be readily obtained, using group III, IV, and V elements as examples of the constituent atoms. The strong predictive power of our approach is demonstrated by high Pearson correlation coefficient for both the training (292 entries) and testing data (33 entries). By utilizing such a descriptor, which contains only four fundamental properties of the constituent atoms, we have rapidly predicted the gaps of 7140 possible heterostructures that agree well with first-principles results for randomly selected candidates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Degradation of organics in high-salinity wastewater is beneficial to meeting the requirement of zero liquid discharge for coking wastewater treatment. Creating efficient and stable performance catalysts for high-salinity wastewater treatment is vital in catalytic ozonation process. Compared with ozonation alone, Mn and Ce co-doped γ -Al 2 O 3 could remarkably enhance activities of catalytic ozonation for chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal (38.9%) of brine derived from a two-stage reverse osmosis treatment. Experimental and theoretical calculation results indicate that introducing Mn could increase the active points of catalyst surface, and introducing Ce could optimize d -band electronic structures and promote the electron transport capacity, enhancing HO• bound to the catalyst surface ([HO•] ads) generation. [HO•] ads plays key roles for degrading the intermediates and transfer them into low molecular weight organics, and further decrease COD, molecular weights and number of organics in reverse osmosis concentrate. Under the same reaction conditions, the presence of Mn/ γ -Al 2 O 3 catalyst can reduce ΔO 3 /ΔCOD by at least 37.6% compared to ozonation alone. Furthermore, Mn-Ce/ γ -Al 2 O 3 catalytic ozonation can reduce the ΔO 3 /ΔCOD from 2.6 of Mn/ γ -Al 2 O 3 catalytic ozonation to 0.9 in the case of achieving similar COD removal. Catalytic ozonation has the potential to treat reverse osmosis concentrate derived from bio-treated coking wastewater reclamation. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The over-dosing use of chloroquine phosphate (CQ) poses severe threats to human beings and ecosystem due to the high persistence and biotoxicity. The discharge of CQ into wastewater would affect the biomass activity and process stability during the biological processes, e.g., anammox. However, the response mechanism of anammox consortia to CQ remain unknown. In this study, the accurate role of extracellular polymeric substances barrier in attenuating the negative effects of CQ, and the mechanism on cytotoxic behavior were dissected by molecular spectroscopy and computational chemistry. Low concentrations (≤6.0 mg/L) of CQ hardly affected the nitrogen removal performance due to the adaptive evolution of EPS barrier and anammox bacteria. Compact protein of EPS barrier can bind more CQ (0.24 mg) by hydrogen bond and van der Waals force, among which O-H and amide II region respond CQ binding preferentially. Importantly, EPS contributes to the microbiota reshape with selectively enriching Candidatus_Kuenenia for self-protection. Furthermore, the macroscopical cytotoxic behavior was dissected at a molecular level by CQ fate/distribution and computational chemistry, suggesting that the toxicity was ascribed to attack of CQ on functional proteins of anammox bacteria with atom N17 (f –=0.1209) and C2 (f +=0.1034) as the most active electrophilic and nucleophilic sites. This work would shed the light on the fate and risk of non-antibiotics in anammox process. [Display omitted] • Fate and distribution of chloroquine phosphate (CQ) in anammox were deciphered. • EPS configuration change and binding mechanism between EPS and CQ were unraveled. • Antioxidation defense mechanism of anammox bacteria to CQ was dissected. • EPS conduced to selectively enrich Candidatus Kuenenia for microbiota reshape. • Molecular mechanism on attack behavior of CQ to intracellular protein was revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a novel tube-forming method that employs a pulsed laser as a stamping tool to form a small-diameter bulged tube, which could not be easily obtained via conventional tube forming. A mechanism for the dynamic forming of a laser-induced micro-bulge was introduced, and an analytical model was developed to analyze the micro-bulging deformation induced by single laser irradiation. A finite element model was also built to simulate shock wave propagation and the dynamic progress of tube expansion. A series of validated deformation experiments were conducted. The study findings showed that the laser-induced shock wave diffused rapidly, causing the tube to expand at the shocked zone. When subjected to a one-shot laser shock, the tube underwent deformation with micro-bulging. The application of a confining layer was found to be beneficial for tube deformation. The magnitude of the tube deformation increased with the increase of laser shots. Moreover, as the laser pulse energy increased, the bulge deformation of the tube also increased. The proposed process provides an efficient alternative to form the expansion tube with a smaller diameter in the future. [Display omitted] • The conception and mechanism of laser shock tube bulging were introduced. • A model for the tube micro bulge induced by a single laser shock was developed. • A novel model was established to simulate the dynamic deformation in the tube. • The effect of the key parameters on tube bulge forming was investigated in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To study the differences in material performance between HRB400E steel and conventional strength steel, this paper performed monotonic and cyclic loading tests on HRB400E and Q355B steels under a series of loading protocols. Additionally, the self-designed fixtures were used to achieve large strain rate loading. The ductility, monotonic behavior and hysteretic characteristics of HRB400E and Q355B steels were assessed, along with the energy dissipation capacity evaluated through the energy dissipation coefficients. The cyclic skeleton curves of both steels were fitted using the Ramberg-Osgood model, with further investigation into the influence of kinematic hardening parameters on hysteretic curves. The combined hardening parameters of the Voce-Chaboche model were calibrated based on the experimental results, and the hysteretic curves were simulated under different loading protocols via ANSYS. The analysis results reveal that the energy dissipation coefficients of HRB400E steel are larger than that of Q355B steel, yet smaller than those of Q460D, LYP100, LY100, LY160, and LY225 steels. Both HRB400E and Q355B steels demonstrate significantly improved material strength under cyclic loading. Excellent agreement between simulated and experimental curves is achieved when using four pairs of kinematic hardening parameters. Additionally, the hysteretic performance of HRB400E and Q355B steels under different cyclic loading protocols can be precisely simulated by employing calibrated combined hardening parameters. Through this paper, the cyclic behavior and constitutive relations of HRB400E steel are comprehensively understood, which provides a reliable theoretical basis for engineering design and structural analysis. Furthermore, this research provides a scientific basis for material applications of HRB400E steel. • HRB400E steel and conventional strength steel are compared in material performance. • Monotonic and cyclic loading tests are conducted. • Ductility, monotonic property, and hysteretic performance of HRB400E and Q355B steels are assessed. • Self-designed fixtures are utilized to achieve large strain rate loading. • The hysteretic property of the HRB400E steel can be accurately simulated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Green and efficient P-containing Cu-PC 8 catalyst was prepared by one-step calcination. • Introduction of phytic acid improves the dispersion of copper species and inhibits metal agglomeration. • The central atom Cu combines with oxygen atoms to form a stable Cu-O 3 coordination structure. • P atom interacts with Cu species which results in excellent catalytic performance for acetylene hydration. Phytic acid assisted glucose one-step method was used to prepare a Cu-based catalyst, thereby promoting the preparation of acetaldehyde from acetylene hydration. The Cu-PC 8 catalyst showed high performance with acetylene conversion reaching as high as 96.9 % and an impressive selectivity of 88.1 % towards acetaldehyde, under a reaction temperature of 220 oC. Furthermore, it demonstrated good stability for up to 30 h, surpassing the performance of previous acetylene hydration catalysts using P-modified carbon as the carrier in existing literature. TEM analysis showed that the P-modified carbon material could effectively enhance the dispersion of copper, which is an active component, and prevent the aggregation of metals. XPS showed that P from phytic acid improved the catalytic performance by decreasing the electron cloud density around the copper species and increasing the content of the active components Cu2+ and Cu+. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The mass gains of the Ti-48Al-3Nb-1.5Ta alloy after 900 °C oxidation for 100 / 200 h are 0.95 and 1.29 mg·cm−2. • The Al 3 (Nb,Ta) phase and the [0 0 1] TiO 2 texture were crystallographically identified in the oxide scale. • Nb and Ta alloying promotes the formation of protective continuous dense nitride layers against oxidation. • The oxidation resistance of the TiAl-Nb alloy can be improved by replacing some Nb with a small amount of Ta. The effects of Ta alloying on the isothermal oxidation behavior and mechanism of a cast Ti-48Al-3Nb-1.5Ta (at.%) TiAl alloy are investigated. It exhibits excellent oxidation resistance with mass gains of 0.95 and 1.29 mg·cm−2 after 900 °C oxidation for 100/200 h in the air, similar to 8 at.% Nb-containing TiAl alloys. The oxide scale shows a complex multi-layer structure, where the Al 2 O 3 layer and continuous dense nitride layer act as protective layers against diffusion and metal oxidation. The oxidation mechanisms are discussed thermodynamically and kinetically. Compared with Nb, Ta is more significant in inhibiting diffusion and promoting the formation of the protective continuous nitride layer, thus being more effective in improving the oxidation resistance of cast TiAl alloy. Consequently, without considering the influence of microstructure, the oxidation resistance of cast Nb-containing TiAl alloy can be further improved by replacing some Nb with a small amount of Ta. It is supposed to provide new insights into the design of oxidation-resistant TiAl alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water pollution is calling for a sustainable remediation method such as the use of metallic iron (Fe0) to reduce and filter some pollutants, yet the reactivity and hydraulic conductivity of iron filters decline over time under field conditions. Here we review iron filters with focus on metallic corrosion in porous media, flaws in designing iron filters, next-generation filters and perspectives such as safe drinking water supply, iron for anaemia control and coping with a reactive material. We argue that assumptions sustaining the design of current Fe0 filters are not valid because proposed solutions address the issues of declining iron reactivity and hydraulic conductivity separately. Alternatively, a recent approach suggest that each individual Fe0 atom corroding within a filter contributes to both reactivity and permeability loss. This approach applies well to alternative iron materials such as bimetallics, composites, hybrid aggregates, e.g. Fe0/sand, and nano-Fe0. Characterizing the intrinsic reactivity of individual Fe0 materials is a prerequisite to designing sustainable filters. Indeed, Fe0 ratio, Fe0 type, Fe0 shape, initial porosity, e.g. pore size and pore size distribution, and nature and size of admixing aggregates, e.g. pumice, pyrite and sand, are interrelated parameters which all influence the generation and accumulation of iron corrosion products. Fe0 should be characterized in long-term experiments, e.g. 12 months or longer, for Fe dissolution, H2 generation and removal of contaminants in three media, i.e., tap water, spring water and saline water, to allow reactivity comparison and designing field-scale filters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This letter to the editor discusses the relationship between cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) and Helicobacter pylori infection. The authors reference previous studies that suggest a negative link between H. pylori infection and bile reflux gastritis, as bile acids inhibit the bacteria. However, the authors also found conflicting research that showed an increased risk of H. pylori infection following cholecystectomy, even in an alkaline environment. The authors suggest further investigation to understand this disparity and to fully comprehend H. pylori infection in postcholecystectomy patients. [Extracted from the article]

Quiescent batch experiments were conducted to evaluate the influences of Cl−, F−, HCO 3 −, HPO 4 2−, and SO 4 2− on the reactivity of metallic iron (Fe0) for water remediation using the methylene blue (MB) method. Strong discoloration of MB indicates high availability of solid iron corrosion products (FeCPs). Tap water was used as an operational reference. Experiments were carried out in graduated test tubes (22 mL) for up to 45 d, using 0.1 g of Fe0 and 0.5 g of sand. Operational parameters investigated were (i) equilibration time (0–45 d), (ii) 4 different types of Fe0, (iii) anion concentration (10 values), and (iv) use of MB and Orange II (O-II). The degree of dye discoloration, the pH, and the iron concentration were monitored in each system. Relative to the reference system, HCO 3 − enhanced the extent of MB discoloration, while Cl−, F−, HPO 4 2−, and SO 4 2− inhibited it. A different behavior was observed for O-II discoloration: in particular, HCO 3 − inhibited O-II discoloration. The increased MB discoloration in the HCO 3 − system was justified by considering the availability of FeCPs as contaminant scavengers, pH increase, and contact time. The addition of any other anion initially delays the availability of FeCPs. Conflicting results in the literature can be attributed to the use of inappropriate experimental conditions. The results indicate that the application of Fe0–based systems for water remediation is a highly site-specific issue which has to include the anion chemistry of the water. • Metallic iron (Fe0) is an excellent reactive material for water remediation in filters. • Fe0 generates iron oxides and hydroxides (FeCPs) that are contaminant scavengers. • Anions form complexes and salts with dissolved Fe and delay FeCPs' generation. • All inorganic anions fundamentally inhibit the efficiency of Fe0/H 2 O systems. • Reported discrepancies are due to variabilities in the experimental conditions used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The present study aimed to investigate whether intratracheal dexmedetomidine combined with ropivacaine reduces the severity and incidence of postoperative sore throat after tracheal intubation under general anaesthesia. Methods: Two hundred patients with American Society of Anaesthesiologists physical status I-II who were subjected to general anaesthesia were randomly divided into four groups, namely, Group D, Group R, Group DR and Group S; these groups received intratracheal dexmedetomidine (1 µg/kg), 0.8% ropivacaine (40 mg), dexmedetomidine (1 µg/kg) combined with 0.8% ropivacaine (40 mg) and normal saline before endotracheal intubation, respectively. The primary outcomes were the incidence and grade of sore throat and hoarseness at 2 h and 24 h after surgery. Moreover, the modified Observer's Assessment of Alertness/Sedation Scale results were recorded at each time point. The secondary outcomes were intraoperative haemodynamic fluctuations, intraoperative anaesthetic drug requirements, and adverse reactions during and after surgery. The patients' vital signs before induction, before superficial anaesthesia, after superficial anaesthesia, before intubation, after intubation, and 1 min after intubation were recorded. The use of anaesthetic drugs and occurrence of adverse effects were also recorded. Results: The incidence and severity of sore throat were significantly lower in Group DR than in the other three groups 2 h after the operation, but they were only significantly lower in Group DR than in the control group 24 h after the operation. Moreover, compared with Group S and Group D, Group DR exhibited more stable haemodynamics during intubation. The doses of remifentanil and propofol were significantly lower in Group DR than in the other groups. Conclusion: The combined use of dexmedetomidine and ropivacaine for surface anaesthesia before intubation significantly reduced the incidence and severity of postoperative sore throat. This treatment also decreased anaesthetic drug requirements and intraoperative haemodynamic fluctuations and caused no adverse effects. Trial registration: This clinical research was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR1900022907, Registration date 30/04/2019). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Catalyst wettability regulation has emerged as an attractive approach for high catalytic performance for the past few years. By introducing appropriate wettability, the molecule diffusion of reactants and products can be enhanced, leading to high activity. Besides this, undesired molecules are isolated for high selectivity of target products and long‐term stability of catalyst. Herein, we summarize wettability‐induced high‐performance heterogeneous thermocatalysis in recent years, including hydrophilicity, hydrophobicity, hybrid hydrophilicity‐hydrophobicity, amphiphilicity, and superaerophilicity. Relevant reactions are further classified and described according to the reason for the performance improvement. It should be pointed out that studies of utilizing superaerophilicity to improve heterogeneous thermocatalytic performance have been included for the first time, so this is a comparatively comprehensive review in this field as yet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]