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Efficient and stable hole transport layer (HTL) is an important component of organic photovoltaics (OPV). Herein, a novel self‐assembled monolayer material of 4PADCB (short for (4‐(7H‐dibenzo[c,g]carbazol‐7‐yl)butyl)phosphonic acid) as HTL for non‐fullerene (NF) OPV is reported. Compared to the widely used PEDOT:PSS HTL, the usage of 4PADCB not only enhances photon incident and charge generation but also effectively improves the morphology of the upper active layer, promotes molecular packing, and balances the carrier transport within active layer. As a result, the single‐junction binary D18:L8BO OPV, employing 4PADCB as HTL, achieves a high‐power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 19.02% with excellent storage stability. Furthermore, a 19.3 cm2 OPV module comprising seven sub‐cells demonstrates a maximum PCE of 15.44%, which is the highest value of reported efficiency for large‐area binary OPV modules. Meanwhile, the module is the first demonstration of an OPV module based on self‐assembled monolayer material. This work underscores the substantial potential for the application of 4PADCB in efficient NF OPV devices and high‐throughput large‐area modules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current engineering optimizations mainly use surrogate models (SMs) to approximate complex black-box problems. However, SMs with different approximate characteristics may make the designers unable to accurately judge which type of SMs is more suitable for the actual optimization design. A reasonable combination of different SMs might be one of the solutions. To this end, a global optimization algorithm based on an adaptive weighted hybrid surrogate model (GOA-AWHS) is proposed. In each iteration, a hybrid model based on kriging and RBF is first constructed by adaptively selecting weight coefficients. Next, two objectives consisting of predicted objective, root mean square error and distance parameters are optimized to generate the Pareto frontier. Finally, further selection of data points on the Pareto front yields multiple promising optimal solutions. A series of standard numerical functions and hydrogen fuel utilization in hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are tested to demonstrate the effectiveness and robustness of the GOA-AWHS method. • A global optimization method based on hybrid surrogate model is proposed. • The hybrid model is built by adaptively selecting the weights of Kriging and RBF. • Two objectives are constructed and used to improve optimization quality. • The comparison results with other methods show its superiority. • A simulation case of hydrogen fuel utilization is validated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selective electron transport and extraction are essential to the operation of photovoltaic devices. Electron transport layer (ETL) is therefore critical to organic photovoltaics (OPV). Herein, an ETL configuration is presented comprising a solution‐processed n‐n organic heterojunction to enhance electron transport and hole blocking, and boost power conversion efficiency (PCE) in OPV. Specifically, the n‐n heterojunction is constructed by stacking a narrow‐band n‐type conjugated polymer layer (PNDIT‐F3N) and a wide‐band n‐type conjugated molecule layer (Phen‐NaDPO). Based on the ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy measurement and numerical simulation of current density‐voltage characteristics, the formation of the built‐in potential is investigated. In three OPVs with different active layers, substantial improvements are observed in performance following the introduction of this ETL configuration. The performance enhancement arises from the combination of selective carrier transport properties and reduced recombination. Another contributing factor is the good film‐forming quality of the new ETL configuration, where the surface energies of the related materials are well‐matched. The n‐n organic heterojunction represents a viable and promising ETL construction strategy for efficient OPV devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Hybrid models struggle for prediction of dimensional-interaction, a problem rarely tackled in the literature so far. • Sampling strategies for the exploration of anisotropic design-space with very few evaluations. • A fast derivatives computation approach through the sensitivity method, largely reducing computational cost. • A second-order derivative enhanced Taylor-Cokriging unified model proposed for anisotropic design-space exploration. Anisotropy occurs naturally when modelling engineering design spaces and sometimes becomes significant, such as in robust and reliability-based design optimization, where the "noise factor" is often modeled in a different way with the design variables. Hybrid models are often used to handle the anisotropy by using different methods for different types of variables. However, since different models are used, the dimensional interactions cannot be accurately approximated, and the intensive computational cost remains high due to the number of samples needed. This work presents a novel method to tackle this anisotropic design space with a proposed Hessian-enhanced Taylor–cokriging unified model. First, the sampling strategies for the exploration of anisotropic design spaces is presented. Second, the difficulty of modelling with anisotropic design spaces is analyzed. Third, a solution is proposed by introducing additional assumptions of the probability distribution into the modelling process. Furthermore, to reduce the computational cost, the sensitivity method is integrated into the methodology to obtain low-cost derivatives. Finally, the proposed method is assessed for the specific case where only a single sample value exists in certain dimensions. The elementary effect is adopted to quantify the dimensional properties. Three test cases, including two theoretical ones and an industrial one, are used to assess the validity of this method. The first theoretical test case calls for a massive number of multimodal two-dimensional test functions whose spatial properties in each dimension are distinctive. The second theoretical test case uses a ten-dimensional test function. Design optimization is performed for an automotive engine cooling fan whose design space exhibits anisotropic properties. The model built with the proposed Taylor–cokriging method attains a good accuracy. This study is meaningful for the large-scale robust design and reliability-based design optimizations whose design spaces are likely to show anisotropic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolutionary benefit accounting for widespread conservation of oligomeric structures in proteins lacking evidence of intersubunit cooperativity remains unclear. Here, crystal and cryo‐EM structures, and enzymological data, demonstrate that a conserved tetramer interface maintains the active‐site structure in one such class of proteins, the short‐chain dehydrogenase/reductase (SDR) superfamily. Phylogenetic comparisons support a significantly longer polypeptide being required to maintain an equivalent active‐site structure in the context of a single subunit. Oligomerization therefore enhances evolutionary fitness by reducing the metabolic cost of enzyme biosynthesis. The large surface area of the structure‐stabilizing oligomeric interface yields a synergistic gain in fitness by increasing tolerance to activity‐enhancing yet destabilizing mutations. We demonstrate that two paralogous SDR superfamily enzymes with different specificities can form mixed heterotetramers that combine their individual enzymological properties. This suggests that oligomerization can also diversify the functions generated by a given metabolic investment, enhancing the fitness advantage provided by this architectural strategy. Synopsis: Many proteins form evolutionarily conserved oligomers in the absence of obvious functional interactions between subunits. Structural and phylogenetic analyses demonstrate that these interactions maintain active‐site structure in the short‐chain dehydrogenase/reductase superfamily. A cryo‐EM structure of a short‐chain dehydrogenase/reductase (SDR) superfamily enzyme shows dynamic opening of its tetramerization interface coupled to disordering of its active site.The same homotetramer structure is conserved in the vast majority of SDR superfamily enzymes with structures deposited in the PDB.The maintenance of active‐site structure using homooligomeric interactions enables a shorter protein subunit to form an active enzyme.Increased evolutionary fitness can therefore be conferred by homooligomeric interactions due to reduced metabolic investment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hazardous weather has become a major cause of flight delays in recent years. With the development of satellite navigation systems, the study of flight-path optimization under hazardous weather conditions has become especially important. In this study, radar data were used as the basis for the initial flight-restricted area under hazardous weather conditions, and the Graham algorithm was used to delineate the dynamic flight-restricted area by comprehensively considering the hazardous weather boundary changes along with the speed and direction. Then, under the grid environment model, the range of influence, size, and distribution characteristics of the flight-restricted area was examined, and the path optimization model was created according to constraints related to the path distance, corner size, and number of turning points. An improved F-RRT ∗ algorithm was developed to solve the model. The algorithm can overcome the problems of traditional path planning algorithms, such as strong randomness, poor guidance, slow convergence speed, unsmooth paths, and poor tracing smoothness. Finally, a simulation analysis was conducted on the Guiyang–Guangzhou route in China as an example. This study can address the drawbacks of existing research on route change and provide sufficient theoretical support and reference for the implementation of specific route change plans in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A retained gob-side entry technique is popular in longwall mining coal mines, because the excavation of an entry is reduced for the next panel. However, it is influenced by multiple excavations and mining, so the stability control of the surrounding rock becomes a problem. In view of the above problems, a typical retained gob-side entry with thick immediate roof was carried out, and a blasting fracturing roof technology was used in it to improve the stress environment, reduce the deformation and damage, and ensure stability and safety. To study the fracturing roof parameters, a global model with thick immediate roof considering strain-soft and double-yield constitution was built. It found that the stress, damage range, and deformation of surrounding rock were closely related to the height and angle of fracturing roof, and an optimal case was given out. The simulation result was applied to the field practice, and a good application effect was achieved. The above technique and research method can be used as a reference for the coal mine with similar conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

3D metal halide perovskite X‐ray detectors have become the focus of research in recent years due to their superior sensitivity. However, the reported efficient perovskite X‐ray detectors all contain highly toxic lead and worrisome stability, which greatly limits their wide application and promotion. In this study, a distorted 3D germanium perovskite MAGeI3 single crystal (SC) is designed and grown by gradient cooling method. Due to its distorted octahedral structure, the MAGeI3 SCs not only possess high sensitivity but also have superior long‐term working stability. Specifically, the MAGeI3 SC X‐ray detectors achieve a record sensitivity of 42825 µC Gy−1 cm−2 and an impressive low detection limit of 4.1 nGy s−1, both of them are far better than the state‐of‐the‐art lead‐free perovskite SC X‐ray detectors. Moreover, the unencapsulated SC detector still maintains the original response even at high applied electric field and high dose rate X‐ray irradiation for several hours. Eventually, a high resolution of 7.2 lp mm−1 in X‐ray imaging is demonstrated on the MAGeI3 SC detector under a low dose rate of 478 nGy s−1 and at a low electric field of 1 V mm−1. This work provides a new pathway to design high‐performance and low‐toxicity X‐ray detectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alcohol dehydrogenases/reductases catalyze enantioselective syntheses of versatile chiral compounds relying on direct hydride transfer from cofactor to substrates, or to an intermediate and then to substrates. Since most of the substrates catalyzed by alcohol dehydrogenases/reductases are insoluble in aqueous solutions, increasing interest has been turning to organic-aqueous systems. However, alcohol dehydrogenases/reductases are normally instable in organic solvents, leading to the unsatisfied enantioselective synthesis efficiency. The behaviors of these enzymes in organic solvents at an atomic level are unclear, thus it is of great importance to understand its structure-based mechanisms in organic-aqueous systems to improve their relative stability. Here, we summarized the accessible structures of alcohol dehydrogenases/reductases in Protein Data Bank crystallized in organic-aqueous systems, and compared the structures of alcohol dehydrogenases/reductases which have different tolerance towards organic solvents. By understanding the catalytic behaviors and mechanisms of these enzymes in organic-aqueous systems, the efficient enantioselective syntheses mediated by alcohol dehydrogenases/reductases and further challenges are also discussed through solvent engineering and enzyme-immobilization in the last decade. Unlabelled Image • Alcohol dehydrogenases/reductases (SDRs) are powerful and valuable biocatalysts. • SDRs are unstable in organic solvents. • Structure-based mechanisms of SDRs in orgainc-aqueous systems are discussed. • Recent applications of SDRs in enantioselective syntheses in organic-aqueous reactions are summarized and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fuel mixing mechanism is a critical aspect of the propulsion system of hypersonic vehicles. This study aimed to comprehensively investigate a novel jet configuration that enhances fuel mixing in the combustion chamber. The primary objective was to analyze the significance of vortexes in fuel distribution within the combustion chamber. Computational fluid dynamics was used to investigate the three-dimensional structure of the transverse fuel jet released from an extruded nozzle in a supersonic free stream. The influence of jet type (circular and lobe structure nozzles) and nozzle height was fully explored in this research. The free stream air jet was supersonic (Mach = 4), and the hydrogen jet was injected using various annular nozzles in sonic condition. The results obtained show that the use of an annular circular nozzle is efficient in fuel mixing behind the extruded nozzle. Additionally, fuel mixing improves by approximately 90% when the height of the extruded 3-lobe injector is increased by twice its original length. • Effect of injector type on mixing performance of single annular extruded nozzle at supersonic flow is studied. • Flow analysis around the extruded nozzle is done to disclose the shock effects on mixing mechanism. • Computational modeling is applied to visualize the compressible flow near extruded nozzle. • Circulation and mixing are compared downstream of various extruded nozzles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kriging model has been widely used to approximate expensive black-box problems in many engineering design fields. How to choose an appropriate sampling strategy to produce new expensive updated points is crucial. For this purpose, an adaptive Kriging method with double sampling criteria (AKM-DSC) is proposed. During every iteration of it, maximum curvature criterion and maximum variance criterion based on Kriging model are respectively optimized by trust region (TR) strategy to produce two candidate points. And then, a new screening method is used to determine final expensive-evaluation points from the two candidates. The proposed method is compared with the two typical Kriging modeling methods. The comparison results of seventeen benchmark functions verify that the proposed method can generate higher accuracy Kriging model. Finally, a hydrogen preparation case illustrates the engineering application value of the AKM-DSC method. • An adaptive Kriging method with double sampling criteria is proposed. • Two infill sampling criteria are used to improve approximate accuracy of model. • The comparison results with other algorithms reveal the superiority of the method. • The hydrogen preparation case is verified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The generalized efficient global optimization (GEGO) method is able to solve expensive black-box problems. However, selecting one sampling point per cycle may result in large time consumption and loss of convergence accuracy. To this end, a kriging-based multi-point unconstrained global optimization (KMUGO) method is proposed. It extends the GEGO method with the improved constant liar (CL) strategy. For each cycle, the kriging model is first constructed or updated by the existing sampled data. Then, the enhanced alternative CL strategy is used to find multiple points, which will be further screened to identify the final expensive-evaluation points. Test results of numerical problems and an engineering simulation case show that KMUGO can deliver better convergence than GEGO, multi-point sampling method-based kriging (MPSK), hybrid and adaptive meta-model-based global optimization (HAM) and the kriging-based global optimization method using multi-point infill search criterion (KGOMISC). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tumor necrosis receptor super family (TNFRSF) plays an important role in regulating the function of CD8+ T cells. In this study, we explored the clinical significance and immune profile of TNFRSF9+ CD8+ T cells in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) The infiltration of immune cells was determined by immunohistochemistry in ZS cohort from our hospital and their prognostic value was further determined by Cox regression. Functional status of CD8+ T cells in ccRCC was determined by flow cytometry in 29 fresh tumor samples. In silico analysis on a TCGA cohort and other datasets was performed to further demonstrate our findings. High TNFRSF9+ CD8+ T cells infiltration was associated with inferior overall survival in ZS cohort (p =.0016) and TCGA-KIRC cohort (p =.018). TNFRSF9+ CD8+ T cells expressed higher exhaustion markers (PD-1, TIM-3, CTLA-4, and TIGIT), and effector markers (IFN-γ, GZMB, CD107a, and Ki-67), than their TNFRSF9 negative counterparts. In silico analysis indicated the expression of TNFRSF9 was significantly correlated with IFNG, GZMK, MKI-67, PDCD1, HAVCR2, TIGIT, and CTLA-4 in CD8+ T cells. However, higher TNFRSF9 signature was correlated with larger tumor size shrinkage (p =.003) and better progression-free survival (p =.012) in patients treated with nivolumab but not everolimus. TNFRSF9+ CD8+ T cells, which possessed both exhaustion and effector phenotype, were identified as an adverse prognosticator in ccRCC. These cells enrichment was associated with better immunotherapy response which indicated these cells potentially be crucial in immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Kriging-based single-objective optimization for expensive black-box problems has been preventing the engineering application. The main challenge is how to reduce time consumption and improve convergence accuracy. To this end, a Kriging-based bi-objective constrained optimization (KBCO) algorithm is proposed. For each cycle, KBCO firstly uses the sampled design points to build or consecutively update Kriging models of expensive objective and constraint functions. And then, the predictive objective, root mean square error (RMSE) and maximum feasible probability produced by Kriging models are used to construct two objectives, which will be optimized by the NSGA-II solver to generate the Pareto optimal solutions. Finally, the Pareto front data will be further screened to obtain new expensive-evaluation sampling points and append them to sample data. Several numerical tests and a fuel economy simulation case for hydrogen fuel cell vehicle verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the KBCO method. • An effective Kriging-based bi-objective constrained optimization method is proposed. • Two appropriate objectives are constructed and used to enhance optimization quality. • The comparison results with other algorithms reveal the superiority of this method. • The fuel economy of hydrogen fuel cell vehicle is verified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A major experimental drought research project entitled "Mechanisms and Early Warning of Drought Disasters over Northern China" (DroughtEX_China) was launched by the Ministry of Science and Technology of China in 2015. The objective of DroughtEX_China is to investigate drought disaster mechanisms and provide early-warning information via multisource observations and multiscale modeling. Since the implementation of DroughtEX_China, a comprehensive V-shape in situ observation network has been established to integrate different observational experiment systems for different landscapes, including crops in northern China. In this article, we introduce the experimental area, observational network configuration, ground- and air-based observing/testing facilities, implementation scheme, and data management procedures and sharing policy. The preliminary observational and numerical experimental results show that the following are important processes for understanding and modeling drought disasters over arid and semiarid regions: 1) the soil water vapor–heat interactions that affect surface soil moisture variability, 2) the effect of intermittent turbulence on boundary layer energy exchange, 3) the drought–albedo feedback, and 4) the transition from stomatal to nonstomatal control of plant photosynthesis with increasing drought severity. A prototype of a drought monitoring and forecasting system developed from coupled hydroclimate prediction models and an integrated multisource drought information platform is also briefly introduced. DroughtEX_China lasted for four years (i.e., 2015–18) and its implementation now provides regional drought monitoring and forecasting, risk assessment information, and a multisource data-sharing platform for drought adaptation over northern China, contributing to the global drought information system (GDIS). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To develop and prospectively validate a novel weighted quantitative scoring system based on CT findings, namely, the renal cyst index (RCI), aimed at preoperatively predicting the pathological features of cystic renal masses (CRMs).Methods: The RCI was based on four critical features of CRMs: the cyst wall, septal, nodule, and cyst contents. These parameters were scored with 1, 2, or 3 points. Weight coefficients for these parameters were determined by the multivariable logistic regression. The odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) were used to summarise the results. The RCI was defined as the sum of these four weight coefficients. Malignancy risk prediction models were built based on the retrospective evaluation of 441 patients. We also compared the prediction ability of the RCI with the Bosniak classification in the 441 patients and applied these novel models to 152 masses resected in our institution to prospectively validate the efficiency of the RCI.Results: The wall point (OR = 5.71 [95% CI = 1.734-18.808, p = 0.004, point = 2], OR = 12.665 [95% CI = 3.750-42.770, p < 0.001, point = 3]), septal point (OR = 3.325 [95% CI = 1.272-8.692, p = 0.014, point = 3]), nodule point (OR = 4.588 [95% CI = 1.429-14.729, p < 0.001, point = 2], OR = 17.032 [95% CI = 5.017-57.820, p = 0.010, point = 3]), content point (OR = 22.822 [95% CI = 1.041-495.995, p = 0.047, point = 2], OR = 2.723 [95% CI = 1.296-10.696, p = 0.015, point = 3]), and RCI (OR = 1.247 [95% CI = 1.197-1.299, p < 0.001]) were significantly associated with malignancy. Masses with an RCI < 6 were regarded as benign masses; masses with an RCI ≥ 10 were regarded as malignant masses. The malignancy risk of masses with an RCI > 6 but < 10 were determined by a nomogram. The prediction ability of the RCI was significantly superior to the Bosniak classification for Bosniak IIF and III masses (AUC: 0.912 vs. 0.753, p = 0.001). The RCI also accurately predicted the pathological features of 152 masses.Conclusion: The RCI is a reliable quantitative scoring system in predicting the malignancy risk of CRMs, and it outperformed the Bosniak classification system in some ways.Key Points: • The renal cyst index (RCI) is a useful weighted quantitative classification system based on CT findings for diagnosing cystic renal masses. • The RCI outperforms the Bosniak classification system in some ways, especially for Bosniak IIF and III masses. • Masses with an RCI < 6 can be regarded as a simple cyst, while those with an RCI > 10 can be regarded as malignant masses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Kriging-based global optimization method is proposed to solve black-box unconstrained design problems in this work. Firstly, the non-convex Kriging optimization problem is converted into the two convex programing problems by the canonical dual transform to quickly get global optimal solution. Then, PSO (Particle Swarm Optimization) algorithm is adopted to find next promising design point by exploring and optimizing the transformed problems. The proposed method not only reduces the computational burden, but also effectively balances local and global search behavior. Some well-known numerical test functions and a real engineering example are investigated to illustrate that the presented method can further enhance the feasibility, validity and robustness of the optimization process in contrast with other global optimization algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Three-River Headwater Region (TRHR) has undergone significant hydrological changes and affects the water resources security in the local and downstream areas. We use multiple observational precipitation product, as well as the ERA5 reanalysis dataset to investigate the precipitation variations over the TRHR during the rainy season from 1990 to 2020, and to analyze the contributions of local evaporation and remote water vapor transport to the precipitation and its variations. The precipitation shows a significant increasing trend (17.8 mm decade−1). The precipitation variability (PV) is larger at daily scale and smaller at interannual scale. The spatial distribution of PV varies on different timescales, which reflects the different dominant regimes driving the moisture transport. The mean precipitation in the TRHR is predominantly contributed by western and southern moisture influxes, and the increasing trend of these influxes (10.8 kg s−1 decade−1) determines the precipitation increase. Local evaporation provide about 6% of water vapor for the precipitation, while it has little influence on the precipitation change. The anomalous precipitation in wet and dry years is mainly controlled by the atmospheric circulation over the Tibetan Plateau, which regulates the southwestern moisture transport towards the TRHR. Additionally, the precipitation during 1990–2020 increases by about 3.9% compared to that during 1960–1989. It is related to the higher conversion ratio of water vapor influxes to precipitation and larger evaporation over the TRHR. These findings improve our understanding of the precipitation variations in the TRHR and provide insights for policy makers to optimize water resources management to cope with the global climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purposes: Although several anatomical classification systems that aimed to standardize the description of renal tumors were previously reported, a special classification system is required to help predict the complexity and perioperative outcomes of off-clamp nephron-sparing surgery (NSS). We developed a novel criterion-zero ischemia index (ZII), aiming to help predict the perioperative outcomes after off-clamp NSS and guide patient selection. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 149 patients between June 2009 and July 2014 in our institution who underwent off-clamp NSS with available computed tomography images. ZII was defined as the product of the tumor diameter and depth within renal parenchyma. ZII was then analyzed to investigate its association with perioperative outcomes. A specific ZII score was further selected to best guide patient selection in off-clamp NSS. Results: ZII was significantly associated with estimated blood loss >500 mL (OR 1.270, 95% CI 1.036-1.557, p = 0.021), operative time >2 h (OR 1.286, 95% CI 1.051-1.573, p = 0.014), surgical complications (OR 1.251, 95% CI 1.035-1.511, p = 0.020), overall complications (OR 1.208, 95% CI 1.016-1.436, p = 0.032), and >10% decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate (OR 1.362, 95% CI 1.045-1.776, p = 0.022). Patients with ZII > 6 may bear a higher risk of hemorrhage, perioperative complications, and a longer operative time, if they underwent an off-clamp NSS, compared to those with ZII ≤ 6. Conclusions: The ZII is a novel and readily measurable criterion which can help predict renal complexity of tumor and risk of perioperative outcomes after off-clamp NSS. ZII = 6 is established as a preliminary threshold for patient selection of off-clamp NSS. A more robust criterion is to be validated with more samples in a prospective study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

( S )-carbonyl reductase II (SCRII), a short-chain alcohol dehydrogenase from Candida parapsilosis M203011, catalyzes the bioreduction of 2-hydroxyacetophenone (2-HAP) to ( S )-1-phenyl-1,2-ethanediol (( S )-PED). When SCRII was expressed in Escherichia coli , the biotransformation efficiency of ( S )-PED was low. To improve its biocatalytic efficiency, the homologous expression of SCRII in C. parapsilosis M203011 was attempted. The scr II gene was cloned into an expression vector pCP carrying MAL2 as its promoter and SAT1 as its selection marker. Data obtained in this study showed that SCRII was successfully expressed in recombinant strain C. parapsilosis/ pCP- scr II. The reductive activity toward 2-HAP exhibited about 2-fold and 6-fold increase in the cell-free extracts of C. parapsilosis/ pCP- scr II than those of the wild-type and E. coli /pET28-SCRII. Under the optimal bioreaction conditions (pH 5.5, 35 °C), the optical purity and yield of ( S )-PED were both over 99.9% produced by C. parapsilosis/ pCP- scr II. Additionally, 500-mL preparative scale bioreduction with efficient whole-cell process was performed, and the optical purity was over 99.9% with an isolated yield of about 70%. Our work not only demonstrated the high catalytic efficiency given by the homologous expression of SCRII in C. parapsilosis , but also provides an economical method for the preparation of optically pure chiral alcohols with whole-cell process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The hybrid HTL consists of MoS 2 nanosheets and a PEDOT derivative, which results in an obvious improvement in organic solar cells' performance. • We identified that the synergy of exfoliated-MoS 2 nanosheets and DA-P result in better hole transport and extraction through systematic investigations. • By applying a comprehensive range of spectroscopies, we discovered that the dopant is derived from the oxidation products of MoS 2 nanosheets during ultrasonic exfoliation. We report an efficient hole transporting layer (HTL) for organic solar cell (OSC) based on solution-processed organic-inorganic hybrid composed of ultrasonic-exfoliated MoS 2 nanosheets and dopamine-copolymerized poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) derivative (DA-P). The OSCs based on this new hybrid HTL show a marked performance improvement over those with single-component HTLs, and they retain up to 80% of their original power conversion efficiency after 35 days. Our investigations reveal that the boost in performance is due to a synergistic effect that improves both hole transport and extraction ability. This effect is mainly due to the doping of exfoliated-MoS 2 nanosheets on DA-P. We employ a comprehensive range of spectroscopies to uncover that the dopant is derived from the oxidation products of MoS 2 nanosheets during the ultrasonic exfoliation. Our work demonstrates an efficient hybrid HTL and offers new insights into the interaction of exfoliated-MoS 2 nanosheets and the PEDOT derivatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To find factors related to postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) and long-term significant renal function (RF) loss after partial nephrectomy (PN) in Chinese population.Methods: The main outcome was significant RF loss during the last follow-up, which was defined as >25% decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).Results: A total of 416 patients were included with median age as 57 (IQR 49.8-65.0) yr with body mass index (BMI) as 24.2 (IQR 22.0-26.5) kg/m2 and preoperative eGFR as 90.5 (IQR 79.8-101) ml/min. Summarily, 259 (62.3%) patients were male, 54 (13%) had diabetes, 180 (43.3%) hypertension and 80 (19.2%) hyperuricemia. Median (IQR) tumor diameter was 3.1 (2.4-4.1) cm. All patients underwent PN, in which 135 (32.5%) by open PN approach, 109 (26.2%) by laparoscopic PN and 172 (41.3%) by robot-assisted PN. RF was followed up for 16.88 (10.15-36.37) months, where 58 (13.9%) patients suffered significant RF loss. Multivariable analysis showed age (p=0.0039), BMI (p=0.0049), diabetes (p=0.0351), OT > 110 min (p=0.0034), diameter classification by Diameter-Axial-Polar (DAP) score (diameter 2.4cm - 4.4 cm, p=0.0225; diameter > 4.4 cm, p=0.0207), postoperative AKI (p<0.001) to be predictors of RF loss with AUC as 0.850.Conclusions: We prospectively found predictive factors of short and long-term significant RF loss in all operative methods and constructed a clinical nomogram for long-term Chinese patients RF loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optical property and the structural states of vanadium ions were studied by multiple spectra (UV-visible, IR, Raman, and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR)) in LAS glass and glass-ceramics. The color of glasses changed drastically from light yellow-green to claret during crystallization, the optical absorption in visible range is the characteristic absorption of V4+, and the variation of absorption region is mainly attributed to the change of vanadium ions' coordination polyhedron during crystallization process. The V4+ ions, formed by reduction of V5+ ions, existed as the VO2+ complex in octahedral coordination with a tetragonal compression with C4v symmetry. Additionally, the V4+ ions partially replaced Li+ and occupied tetrahedral sites in beta-quartz solid solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The optical property of LAS glass and the structural states of V4+ ions were studied by use of kinds of spectra (UV–visible, IR, Raman and EPR) in LAS glass and glass–ceramics containing V2O5. It was found that the V4+ ions formed by reduction of V5+ ions, and existed as the VO2+ complex in octahedral coordination with a tetragonal compression with C4v symmetry in LAS glass. Additionally, the V4+ ions partially replaced Li+ and occupied tetrahedral sites in beta-quartz solid solution crystal phase. The color of the glasses drastically changed from light yellow-green to claret during crystallization, and the optical absorption in visible range attribute to the transitions of 2B2g → 2B1g and 2B2g → 2Eg of V4+ ions in high crystal field, which was affected by the above structural variation of V4+. Moreover, the addition of V2O5 in LAS glass decreased crystallization temperature of main beta-quartz solid solution crystal phase. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The Kriging surrogate model in complex simulation problems uses as few expensive objectives as possible to establish a global or local approximate interpolation. However, due to the inversion of the covariance correlation matrix and the solving of Kriging-related parameters, the Kriging approximation process for high-dimensional problems is time consuming and even impossible to construct. For this reason, a high-dimensional Kriging modeling method through principal component dimension reduction (HDKM-PCDR) is proposed by considering the correlation parameters and the design variables of a Kriging model. It uses PCDR to transform a high-dimensional correlation parameter vector in Kriging into low-dimensional one, which is used to reconstruct a new correlation function. In this way, time consumption of correlation parameter optimization and correlation function matrix construction in the Kriging modeling process is greatly reduced. Compared with the original Kriging method and the high-dimensional Kriging modeling method based on partial least squares, the proposed method can achieve faster modeling efficiency under the premise of meeting certain accuracy requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Noradrenergic and corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) neuronal systems within the brain have been implicated in stress and anxiety. Synaptic release of cerebral norepinephrine (NE) is increased during stress, and following intracerebral CRF administration. Benzodiazepines are commonly used anxiolytic drugs but information on their effects on the stress- and CRF-related release of NE is limited. We have used in vivo microdialysis to test the effects of the benzodiazepine, chlordiazepoxide (CDP) on the noradrenergic responses to footshock and intracerebroventricular CRF in the medial hypothalamus and the medial prefrontal cortex (PFM) of freely moving rats. Footshock (60× 0.1–0.2mA shocks in 20min) significantly increased microdialysate concentrations of NE in the first sample collected after initiating the footshock. In the hypothalamus, microdialysate NE was augmented 64% above baseline. A second footshock session (100min after the first footshock) increased microdialysate NE to 313% of the baseline. Thus the noradrenergic responses to footshock were enhanced by preceding footshocks. CRF (100ng) administered into the locus coeruleus (LC) almost tripled microdialysate concentrations of NE in the PFM. CDP (5mg/kg, i.p.) had no statistically significant effects on the basal dialysate concentrations of NE, but it significantly attenuated both footshock- and CRF-induced increases in dialysate NE. CDP may exert a direct inhibitory effect on the noradrenergic neurons, alter the input to LC noradrenergic neurons, or alter the ability of CRF to activate the LC noradrenergic system. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this work, the uniaxial tensile tests were conducted on Fe 40 Mn 40 Co 10 Cr 10 , (Fe 40 Mn 40 Co 10 Cr 10) 98.5 C 1.5 , (Fe 40 Mn 40 Co 10 Cr 10) 96.7 C 3.3 and 0.4 wt% Ti doped (Fe 40 Mn 40 Co 10 Cr 10) 96.7 C 3.3 at 298K, 159K and 77K. Meanwhile, the corresponding deformation microstructures as well as the variations of critical shear stress (τ 0) and critical normal stress (σ 0) were analyzed to unveil the mechanism of ductile-brittle transition (DBT) behavior in carbon alloyed face-centered cubic (FCC) medium/high entropy alloys (M/HEAs). The results show that DBT behavior featured by drastic reduction of ductility with decreasing temperature indeed occurs in (Fe 40 Mn 40 Co 10 Cr 10) 96.7 C 3.3. The slightly increased τ 0 and the abnormally decreased σ 0 at 77K lead to the premature normal fracture of (Fe 40 Mn 40 Co 10 Cr 10) 96.7 C 3.3. Severe dislocation pile-ups near grain boundaries due to significantly reduced deformation twinning at 77K is responsible for the embrittlement of (Fe 40 Mn 40 Co 10 Cr 10) 96.7 C 3.3. These findings provide deep insights into DBT behavior of carbon alloyed FCC M/HEAs. • Ductile-brittle transition behavior characterized by dramatically reduced ductility really occurs in C3.3 MEA. • The premature normal fracture of C3.3 is ascribed to the slightly increased τ 0 and the abnormally decreased σ 0 at 77K. • Severe dislocation pile-ups near grain boundaries at 77K are responsible for the embrittlement of C3.3 MEA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Management of blood glucose fluctuation is essential for diabetes. Exercise is a key therapeutic strategy for diabetes patients, although little is known about determinants of glycemic response to exercise training. We aimed to investigate the effect of combined aerobic and resistance exercise training on blood glucose fluctuation in type 2 diabetes patients and explore the predictors of exercise‐induced glycemic response. Materials and Methods: Fifty sedentary diabetes patients were randomly assigned to control or exercise group. Participants in the control group maintained sedentary lifestyle for 2 weeks, and those in the exercise group specifically performed combined exercise training for 1 week. All participants received dietary guidance based on a recommended diet chart. Glycemic fluctuation was measured by flash continuous glucose monitoring. Baseline fat and muscle distribution were accurately quantified through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Results: Combined exercise training decreased SD of sensor glucose (SDSG, exercise‐pre vs exercise‐post, mean 1.35 vs 1.10 mmol/L, p =.006) and coefficient of variation (CV, mean 20.25 vs 17.20%, p =.027). No significant change was observed in the control group. Stepwise multiple linear regression showed that baseline MRI‐quantified fat and muscle distribution, including visceral fat area (β = −0.761, p =.001) and mid‐thigh muscle area (β = 0.450, p =.027), were significantly independent predictors of SDSG change in the exercise group, as well as CV change. Conclusions: Combined exercise training improved blood glucose fluctuation in diabetes patients. Baseline fat and muscle distribution were significant factors that influence glycemic response to exercise, providing new insights into personalized exercise intervention for diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The generalized effective global optimization (EGO) method based on Kriging model can sequentially solve the expensive black-box problems. However, it can only obtain one sampling point in a cycle, which will result in more time spent on expensive function evaluations and affect the global convergence. To this end, A Kriging-based adaptive global optimization method with generalized expected improvement (KAGO-GEI) is proposed. It divides the enhanced generalized expected improvement (GEI) criterion which recursively changes in the iterative process into double objectives, and then uses multi-objective PSO method to optimize the two objectives to produce the Pareto frontier. Further, more valuable sampling points from Pareto frontier are screened and corrected as the expensive-evaluation points for updating Kriging model. Test results on eighteen benchmark functions and crop evapotranspiration calculation example show that the proposed method is superior to other classical optimization methods in terms of convergence and accuracy in most cases. • A Kriging-based adaptive global optimization method with generalized expected improvement (GEI) is proposed. • Two objectives divided by enhanced GEI are optimized to generate Pareto front, which is screened to get evaluation points. • In terms of improving convergence accuracy, test results show the superiority of this method. • The crop evapotranspiration calculation example is verified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The kriging optimization method that can only obtain one sampling point per cycle has encountered a bottleneck in practical engineering applications. How to find a suitable optimization method to generate multiple sampling points at a time while improving the accuracy of convergence and reducing the number of expensive evaluations has been a wide concern. For this reason, a kriging-assisted multi-objective constrained global optimization (KMCGO) method has been proposed. The sample data obtained from the expensive function evaluation is first used to construct or update the kriging model in each cycle. Then, kriging-based estimated target, RMSE (root mean square error), and feasibility probability are used to form three objectives, which are optimized to generate the Pareto frontier set through multi-objective optimization. Finally, the sample data from the Pareto frontier set is further screened to obtain more promising and valuable sampling points. The test results of five benchmark functions, four design problems, and a fuel economy simulation optimization prove the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Henipavirus (HNVs) includes two fatal viruses, namely Nipah virus (NiV) and Hendra virus (HeV). Since 1994, NiV and HeV have been endemic to the Asia–Pacific region and responsible for more than 600 cases of infections. Two emerging HNVs, Ghana virus (GhV) and Mojiang virus (MojV), are speculated to be associated with unrecognized human diseases in Africa and China, respectively. Despite many efforts to develop vaccines against henipaviral diseases, there is presently no licensed human vaccine. As HNVs are highly pathogenic and diverse, it is necessary to develop universal vaccines to prevent future outbreaks. The attachment enveloped glycoprotein (G protein) of HNVs mediates HNV attachment to the host cell's surface receptors. G proteins have been used as a protective antigen in many vaccine candidates for HNVs. We performed quantitative studies on the antibody responses elicited by the G proteins of NiV, HeV, GhV, and MojV. We found that the G proteins of NiV and HeV elicited only a limited cross-reactive antibody response. Further, there was no cross-protection between MojV, GhV, and highly pathogenic HNVs. We then constructed a bivalent vaccine where the G proteins of NiV and HeV were fused with the human IgG1 Fc domain. The immunogenicity of the bivalent vaccine was compared with that of monovalent vaccines. Our results revealed that the Fc-based bivalent vaccine elicited a potent antibody response against both NiV and HeV. We also constructed a tetravalent Fc heterodimer fusion protein that contains the G protein domains of four HNVs. Immunization with the tetravalent vaccine elicited broad antibody responses against NiV, HeV, GhV, and MojV in mice, indicating compatibility among the four antigens in the Fc-fusion protein. These data suggest that our novel bivalent and tetravalent Fc-fusion proteins may be efficient candidates to prevent HNV infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on eddy covariance (EC) measurements during 2016–20, the effects of sky conditions on the net ecosystem productivity (NEP) over a subtropical "floating blanket" wetland were investigated. Sky conditions were divided into overcast, cloudy, and sunny conditions. On the half-hourly timescale, the daytime NEP responded more rapidly to the changes in the total photosynthetic active radiation (PARt) under overcast and cloudy skies than that under sunny skies. The increase in the apparent quantum yield under overcast and cloudy conditions was the greatest in spring and the least in summer. Additionally, lower atmospheric vapor pressure deficit (VPD) and moderate air temperature were more conducive to enhancing the apparent quantum yield under cloudy skies. On the daily timescale, NEP and the gross primary production (GPP) were higher under cloudy or sunny conditions than those under overcast conditions across seasons. The daily NEP and GPP during the wet season peaked under cloudy skies. The daily ecosystem light use efficiency (LUE) and water use efficiency (WUE) during the wet season also changed with sky conditions and reached their maximum under overcast and cloudy skies, respectively. The diffuse photosynthetic active radiation (PARd) and air temperature were primarily responsible for the variation of daily NEP from half-hourly to monthly timescales, and the direct photosynthetic active radiation (PARb) had a secondary effect on NEP. Under sunny conditions, PARb and air temperature were the dominant factors controlling daily NEP. While daily NEP was mainly controlled by PARd under cloudy and overcast conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To determine the relationship between renal tumor complexity and vascular complications after partial nephrectomy using PADUA, RENAL, and ZS scores. Methods: Between January 2007 and December 2018, a total of 1917 patients with available cross-sectional imaging were enrolled in the study. Logistic regressions were used to identify independent predictors of vascular complications. Results: Of 1917 patients, 31 (1.6%) developed vascular complications, including 10 females and 21 males. The high-complexity category was significantly associated with a decreased risk of vascular complication in PADUA (OR = 0.256; 95%CI = 0.086–0.762; P = 0.014) and ZS score (OR = 0.279; 95%CI = 0.083–0.946; P = 0.040). Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy and robot-assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy were independent risk factors for vascular complications. Meanwhile, the incidence was significantly reduced in the recent 4 years in the high score tumor group alone in PADUA (0.2% [1/474] vs. 2.2% [3/139], P = 0.038) and ZS score (0.2% [1/469] vs. 2.7% [3/112], P = 0.024). In the first 8 years, laparoscopic partial nephrectomy and robot-assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy were the only two independent risk factors for vascular complications. In the recent 4 years, only the high-complexity category was significantly associated with a decreased risk of vascular complication in the PADUA score (OR = 0.110; 95%CI = 0.013–0.938; P = 0.044). Conclusion: The renal anatomic classification system cannot predict the occurrence of vascular complications after partial nephrectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To illustrate tumor contour irregularity on preoperative imaging with a practical method and further determine its value in predicting disease-free survival (DFS) in patients with pRCC (papillary renal cell carcinoma).Methods: We performed a retrospective single-institution review of 267 Chinese pRCC patients between March 2009 and May 2019. Contour irregularity on cross-section was classified into smooth but distorted margin, unsmooth and sharply nodular margin, and blurred margin. Then, the ratio of the cross-section numbers of irregularity and the total tumor was defined as the contour irregular degree (CID). Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier analysis were performed to analyze the impact of CID on DFS. Then, the prognostic performance of CID was compared with pRCC risk stratification published by Leibovich et al. RESULTS: The median follow-up was 45 months (IQR: 23-69), in which 27 (10%) patients had metastasis or recurrence. Observed DFS rates were 95%, 90%, and 88% at 1, 3, and 5 years. The CID was an independent prognostic factor of DFS (HR = 1.048, 95% CI = 1.029-1.068, p < 0.001). The Kaplan-Meier plot showed that high-risk patients (CID ≥ 50%) tended to have a significantly shorter DFS (p < 0.001). The CID and Leibovich's pRCC model for DFS prediction had a C-index of 0.934 (95% CI = 0.907-0.961) and 0.833 (95% CI = 0.739-0.927) respectively.Conclusions: With our standard and practical method, the CID can be a reliable imaging marker for DFS prediction in patients with pRCC.Key Points: • The updated contour irregularity was an independent parameter for predicting disease-free survival in patients with pRCC. • High-risk pRCC patients (contour irregular degree ≥ 50%) tended to have a shorter disease-free survival. • Tumor contour irregularity in pRCC risk stratification outperformed Leibovich's model from our cohort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the U.S. Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) numerical model, this study has developed the Northwest Mesoscale Numerical Prediction Service and Experimental System (NW-MNPS). Surface and sounding data assimilation has been introduced for this system. Effects of model vertical layers and land-use data replacement have been assessed. A year-long forecast validation and analysis have been performed. The following results have been obtained: (1) Data assimilation can improve the performance of regional numerical forecasting. (2) Compared to simulations with 40 vertical layers, simulations with 55 vertical layers are more accurate. The average absolute error and root-mean-square error of the 48 h surface element forecast decrease. The analysis of threat score (TS) and equitable threat score (ETS) shows that there are higher TS and ETS values for various precipitation intense levels, in particular for heavy rainfall when comparing a 55-vertical-layer test with a 40-vertical-layer test. (3) Updating the database to include vegetation coverage can more accurately reflect actual surface conditions. The updated land-use data reduce prediction errors in all domains of the NW-MNPS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quasi‐two‐dimensional (Q‐2D) perovskites are emerging as one of the most promising materials for photodetectors. However, a significant challenge to Q‐2D perovskites for photodetection is their insufficient charge transport ability, which is mainly attributed to their hybrid low‐dimensional n‐phase structure. This study demonstrates that evenly‐distributed 3D‐like phases with vertical orientation throughout the film can greatly facilitate charge transport and suppress charge recombination, outperforming the prevalent phase structure with a vertical dimension gradient. Based on such a phase structure, a Q‐2D Ruddlesden−Popper perovskite self‐powered photodetector achieving a combination of exceptional figures‐of‐merit is realized, including a responsivity of 0.45 AW−1, a peak specific detectivity of 2.3 × 1013 Jones, a 156 dB linear dynamic range, and a rise/fall time of 2.89 µs/1.93 µs. The desired phase structure is obtained by utilizing a double‐hole transport layer (HTL), combining hydrophobic PTAA and hydrophilic PEDOT: PSS. Besides, the dependence of the hybrid low‐dimensional phase structure is also identified on the surface energy of the buried HTL substrate. This study gives insight into the correlation between Q‐2D perovskites' phase structure and performance, providing a valuable design guide for Q‐2D perovskite‐based photodetectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the north–south thermodynamic flux exchanges in the westerly and easterly forced by the change of the location of the South Asia High (SAH) at intra-seasonal timescales in summer. The results show that there were differences in heat and momentum exchanges between the westerly and easterly and the location change of the SAH at both 100 and 200 hPa. The circulation pattern and the strength of the westerly around the SAH eddy changes relate to thermal and dynamic flux exchanges in the SAH eddy location. When the SAH is located over the Tibetan Plateau (the eastern pattern, EP), poleward eddy heat and momentum fluxes are on the western side, and equatorward eddy heat and momentum fluxes are on the eastern side of the SAH, thus are benefit to induce a westward movement. When the SAH reaches the Iranian Plateau (the western pattern, WP), the heat and momentum fluxes turn from poleward to equatorward, which is favourable for the SAH to move eastward. On average, the WP or EP of the SAH is maintained for approximately 4 days, then the westerly jet begins to decrease, and the SAH begins to move eastward and return to the Tibetan Plateau. The heat and momentum fluxes forced by the SAH also change the strength and location of the westerly and easterly jets on both sides of the SAH, which induces propagating downstream waves in the subtropical westerly jet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To predict survival prognosis of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients with tumors larger than 7 cm by preoperative radiological morphological features. Methods: We reviewed the medical records of RCC patients with tumors larger than 7 cm from 2007 to 2017 in Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University. A total of 251 patients' clinical data were collected. 25 and 9 patients were excluded due to loss of follow-up and lack of imaging data, respectively. PFS and OS from date of surgery were evaluated. We defined the irregularity of the tumor as the morphological feature studied and quantified it according to a theorem of the ellipse: the length from the midpoint of the ellipse to any point on the ellipse is shorter than or equal to 1/2 of the long axis. The cutoff value of irregularity was calculated based on the ROC curve. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to test associations between features and outcome. Results: Of all the 217 patients included in the study, 67 patients had disease progression and 30 patients died. The cutoff value of the irregularity was selected to be 0.5335. Adrenal invasion, presence of distant metastasis and irregularity of tumors were significantly associated with PFS, and presence of distant metastasis and irregularity of tumors were significantly associated with OS. Conclusions: For patients with tumors larger than 7 cm in RCC, we found a radiological index that is closely related to the prognosis: irregularity. This is an unreported independent prognostic risk factor that can be quantified before surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we investigate the observational direct radiation characteristics of several sandstorm events in Northwestern China (NWC). A simulating sensitivity experiment was designed to reduce the downward radiation in RegCM4 to investigate the climatic impacts and persistence of the direct radiation effect (DRE) from dust aerosols in sandstorms. The results show that dust aerosols in sandstorms can change the radiation heating rate of the atmosphere, heating the air in the middle and low troposphere and cooling Earth’s surface. The climate effects of continuous and intense sandstorms in April in NWC can reach downstream areas such as Southeast and Northeast China and can persist for months. The dust aerosols in sandstorms can enhance diabatic heating and moisture loss. Therefore, dust storms lead to the environment in NWC becoming warmer and dryer. Through analysis of the dust tracer total burden, we identified that the enhancement of the dust total burden in the arid region illustrated that the DRE of dust aerosol in sandstorm process can react with the dust emission, thus forming a self-feedback loop. The DRE can persist three months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cloud microphysical properties are significantly affected by entrainment and mixing processes. However, it is unclear how the entrainment rate affects the relative dispersion of cloud droplet size distribution. Previously, the relationship between relative dispersion and entrainment rate was found to be positive or negative. To reconcile the contrasting relationships, the Explicit Mixing Parcel Model is used to determine the underlying mechanisms. When evaporation is dominated by small droplets, and the entrained environmental air is further saturated during mixing, the relationship is negative. However, when the evaporation of big droplets is dominant, the relationship is positive. Whether or not the cloud condensation nuclei are considered in the entrained environmental air is a key factor as condensation on the entrained condensation nuclei is the main source of small droplets. However, if cloud condensation nuclei are not entrained, the relationship is positive. If cloud condensation nuclei are entrained, the relationship is dependent on many other factors. High values of vertical velocity, relative humidity of environmental air, and liquid water content, and low values of droplet number concentration, are more likely to cause the negative relationship since new saturation is easier to achieve by evaporation of small droplets. Further, the signs of the relationship are not strongly affected by the turbulence dissipation rate, but the higher dissipation rate causes the positive relationship to be more significant for a larger entrainment rate. A conceptual model is proposed to reconcile the contrasting relationships. This work enhances the understanding of relative dispersion and lays a foundation for the quantification of entrainment-mixing mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To assess the impact of malignant cystic renal masses (CRM) rupture on oncologic outcomes. Methods: The study included 406 cases with partial nephrectomy (PN) and 17 cases with cyst decortication confirmed as malignant CRM by pathology. Recurrence-free survival (RFS), metastasis-free survival (MFS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), and overall survival (OS) were analyzed by the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test. Cox regression was used to identify risk factors associated with RFS, MFS, CSS, and OS. Logistic regression was performed to explore predictors of rupture. Results: Tumor rupture occurred in 32 of 406 cases (7.9%). With median follow-up of 43 months, 4 (12.5%) and 5 (1.3%) cases experienced recurrence in rupture and non-rupture group, respectively (P = 0.003). Estimated RFS, MFS, and CSS were shorter in cyst ruptured (CR) group than non-ruptured (nonCR) cases (P < 0.001; P = 0.001; P < 0.001). Cox regression analysis indicated that CR was an independent prognostic factor for RFS (HR = 7.354; 95% CI = 1.839–29.413; P = 0.005), MFS (HR = 8.069; 95% CI = 1.804–36.095; P = 0.006), and CSS (HR = 9.643; 95% CI = 2.183–42.599; P = 0.003). Multivariable logistic regression showed that Bosniak IV was a protective factor for CR (OR = 0.065; 95% CI = 0.018–0.239; P < 0.001). However, compared to Bosniak III and I-IIF, Bosniak IV CRMs showed higher rate of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) (76.8% vs 36.5% vs 81.4%) (P < 0.001) and lower rate of Fuhrman I staging (11.2% vs 66.7% vs 7.4%) (P < 0.001). Therefore, in ruptured cases, the recurrence rate was higher in CRM with Bosniak IV (50%, 2/4) than Bosniak I-III (4.4%, 2/45) (P = 0.029). Conclusions: Intraoperative malignant CRM rupture had negative impacts on oncologic outcomes. Bosniak IV was more aggressive than Bosniak I-III and had a higher risk of recurrence after rupture. However, Bosniak IV had a lower risk of rupture, which could weaken even cover-up of the true effect of tumor rupture on oncologic outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To assess the impact of malignant cystic renal masses (CRM) rupture on oncologic outcomes. Methods: The study included 406 cases with partial nephrectomy (PN) and 17 cases with cyst decortication confirmed as malignant CRM by pathology. Recurrence-free survival (RFS), metastasis-free survival (MFS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), and overall survival (OS) were analyzed by the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test. Cox regression was used to identify risk factors associated with RFS, MFS, CSS, and OS. Logistic regression was performed to explore predictors of rupture. Results: Tumor rupture occurred in 32 of 406 cases (7.9%). With median follow-up of 43 months, 4 (12.5%) and 5 (1.3%) cases experienced recurrence in rupture and non-rupture group, respectively (P = 0.003). Estimated RFS, MFS, and CSS were shorter in cyst ruptured (CR) group than non-ruptured (nonCR) cases (P < 0.001; P = 0.001; P < 0.001). Cox regression analysis indicated that CR was an independent prognostic factor for RFS (HR = 7.354; 95% CI = 1.839–29.413; P = 0.005), MFS (HR = 8.069; 95% CI = 1.804–36.095; P = 0.006), and CSS (HR = 9.643; 95% CI = 2.183–42.599; P = 0.003). Multivariable logistic regression showed that Bosniak IV was a protective factor for CR (OR = 0.065; 95% CI = 0.018–0.239; P < 0.001). However, compared to Bosniak III and I-IIF, Bosniak IV CRMs showed higher rate of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) (76.8% vs 36.5% vs 81.4%) (P < 0.001) and lower rate of Fuhrman I staging (11.2% vs 66.7% vs 7.4%) (P < 0.001). Therefore, in ruptured cases, the recurrence rate was higher in CRM with Bosniak IV (50%, 2/4) than Bosniak I-III (4.4%, 2/45) (P = 0.029). Conclusions: Intraoperative malignant CRM rupture had negative impacts on oncologic outcomes. Bosniak IV was more aggressive than Bosniak I-III and had a higher risk of recurrence after rupture. However, Bosniak IV had a lower risk of rupture, which could weaken even cover-up of the true effect of tumor rupture on oncologic outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water and carbon exchanges between grassland and the atmosphere are important processes for water balance and carbon balance. Based on eddy covariance observations over a semiarid alpine steppe ecosystem in Bange on the Tibetan Plateau during the growing season from 2014 to 2017, the variations in evapotranspiration (ET), net ecosystem exchange (NEE), and their components and the associated driving factors were analyzed. Linear and nonlinear models were applied to investigate the relationships between fluxes and their controlling factors over different timescales. The results show that the average ET for the growing season ranged from 1.1 to 2.4 mm/d with an average of 2.0 mm/d for the four consecutive years. Drought conditions reduced the surface conductance and hence the Priestley–Taylor coefficient. Mean T/ET was low (0.34) due to low vegetation cover. Plant growth increased the T/ET ratio during the growing season, whereas soil water content (SWC) explained most of the variation of ET and E on daily and monthly scales. The Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) was the most important controlling factor for temperature. Transpiration increased with SWC in dry conditions. For the growing season in 2014, 2016, and 2017, Bange was a carbon sink, while it was a carbon source in 2015. The largest CO2 flux was higher and the temperature sensitivity coefficient (Q10) was lower for 2015 than for the other three years. SWC affected these photosynthesis and respiration parameters. The ratio of respiration (Re) to gross primary production (GPP) was the highest during the 2015 growing season. Both on daily and monthly scales, Re was positively and linearly correlated with GPP. The most important controlling factor for the CO2 flux was EVI on daily and monthly scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kriging-based modeling has been widely used in computationally intensive simulations. However, the Kriging modeling of high-dimensional problems not only takes more time, but also leads to the failure of model construction. To this end, a Kriging modeling method based on multidimensional scaling (KMDS) is presented to avoid the "dimensional disaster". Under the condition of keeping the distance between the sample points before and after the dimensionality reduction unchanged, the KMDS method, which mainly calculates each element in the inner product matrix due to the mapping relationship between the distance matrix and the inner product matrix, completes the conversion of design data from high dimensional to low dimensional. For three benchmark functions with different dimensions and the aviation field problem of aircraft longitudinal flight control, the proposed method is compared with other dimensionality reduction methods. The KMDS method has better modeling efficiency while meeting certain accuracy requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The TiO 2 decorated with single-atom iron cocatalyst performs enhanced photocatalytic activity. • The enhanced activity depends on the synergistic effect of N-doped biochar and single atom sites on TiO 2. • The photocatalyst shows outstanding stability and robust resistance to environmental interference. • A single-atom photocatalyst immobilized film is fabricated for complete removal of various antibiotic pollutants. The efficient and sustainable utilization of solar energy and biomass resources through photocatalysis is important for achieving a carbon–neutral energy cycle. Here, we report an efficient photocatalyst SA-Fe@TiO 2 , where single-atom Fe sites are anchored to nitrogen-doped biochar and coupled with anatase TiO 2. This innovative biochar-supported single-atom catalyst serves as a novel cocatalyst that can facilitate charge carrier separation and transfer. SA-Fe@TiO 2 achieves an increase of 4.3 times in apparent rate constant for the degradation of the antibiotic sulfamethoxazole (SMX) and exhibits superior capacity for inactivating antibiotic-resistant genes compared with pure TiO 2. Experimental evidence reveals the remarkable resistance of SA-Fe@TiO 2 against environmental interferences, unveiling the involvement of three primary reactive species (h+, •OH, and •O 2 −) in SMX photodegradation. In addition, we fabricate immobilized SA-Fe@TiO 2 films that effectively degrade five distinct antibiotics within 20 min. This study presents a new method for developing single-atom photocatalysts for highly efficient environmental remediation in the context of carbon neutrality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: (V1−x Al x )2O3 nano-grain ceramics have been prepared successfully for the first time by sintering (V1−x Al x )2O3 nano-powders obtained from a chemical doping route under a H2 atmosphere at 1373–1623K for 15–60min. The SEM micrographs show that the nano-powders obtained by pyrolyzing Al-doped precursors in H2 at 723–823K are more suitable as precursors for ceramics. The AFM micrographs show that the obtained ceramics have a hierarchical structure: the agglomerates in ceramics are about 1–2μm in size, and the agglomerates are composed of spherical particles with diameters of about 30–40nm. The result of resistivity measurement of (V1−x Al x )2O3 nano-grain ceramics confirms that the nano-crystal boundaries in ceramics not only could eliminate effectively the thermo-stress during preparation process but also may be a good electric conductor. The nano-grain ceramics have low room temperature resistivity and exhibit good PTC property. The magnetic susceptibility result of the ceramics also exhibits the intrinsic phase transition property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lassa virus (LASV) is a rodent-borne arenavirus circulating in West African regions that causes Lassa fever (LF). LF is normally asymptomatic at the initial infection stage, but can progress to severe disease with multiorgan collapse and hemorrhagic fever. To date, the therapeutic choices are limited, and there is no approved vaccine for avoiding LASV infection. Adenoviral vector-based vaccines represent an effective countermeasure against LASV because of their safety and adequate immunogenicity, as demonstrated in use against other emerging viral infections. Here, we constructed and characterized a novel Ad5 (E1-, E3-) vectored vaccine containing the glycoprotein precursor (GPC) of LASV. Ad5-GPCLASV elicited both humoral and cellular immune responses in BALB/c mice. Moreover, a bioluminescent imaging-based BALB/c mouse model infected with GPC-bearing and luciferase-expressing replication-incompetent LASV pseudovirus was utilized to evaluate the vaccine efficacy. The bioluminescence intensity of immunized mice was significantly lower than that of control mice after being inoculated with LASV pseudovirus. This study suggests that Ad5-GPCLASV represents a potential vaccine candidate against LF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Finding new valuable sampling points and making these points better distributed in the design space is the key to determining the approximate effect of Kriging. To this end, a high-precision Kriging modeling method based on hybrid sampling criteria (HKM-HS) is proposed to solve this problem. In the HKM-HS method, two infilling sampling strategies based on MSE (Mean Square Error) are optimized to obtain new candidate points. By maximizing MSE (MMSE) of Kriging model, it can generate the first candidate point that is likely to appear in a sparse area. To avoid the ill-conditioned correlation matrix caused by the too close distance between any two sampling points, the MC (MSE and Correlation function) criterion formed by combining the MSE and the correlation function through multiplication and division is minimized to generate the second candidate point. Furthermore, a new screening method is used to select the final expensive evaluation point from the two candidate points. Finally, the test results of sixteen benchmark functions and a house heating case show that the HKM-HS method can effectively enhance the modeling accuracy and stability of Kriging in contrast with other approximate modeling methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]