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SUMMARY: Saline‐alkali stress is an important abiotic stress factor affecting tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) plant growth. Although the involvement of the tomato SlWRKY gene family in responses to saline‐alkali stress has been well established, the mechanism underlying resistance to saline‐alkali stress remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the role of SlWRKY81 in conferring saline‐alkali stress resistance by using overexpression and knockout tomato seedlings obtained via genetic modification. We demonstrated that SlWRKY81 improves the ability of tomato to withstand saline‐alkali stress by enhancing antioxidant capacity, root activity, and proline content while reducing malondialdehyde levels. Saline‐alkali stress induces an increase in jasmonic acid (JA) content in tomato seedlings, and the SlWRKY81 promoter responds to JA signaling, leading to an increase in SlWRKY81 expression. Furthermore, the interaction between SlJAZ1 and SlWRKY81 represses the expression of SlWRKY81. SlWRKY81 binds to W‐box motifs in the promoter regions of SlSPDS2 and SlNHX4, thereby positively regulating their expression. This regulation results in increased spermidine (Spd) content and enhanced potassium (K+) absorption and sodium (Na+) efflux, which contribute to the resistance of tomato to saline‐alkali stress. However, JA and SlJAZ1 exhibit antagonistic effects. Elevated JA content reduces the inhibitory effect of SlJAZ1 on SlWRKY81, leading to the release of additional SlWRKY81 protein and further augmenting the resistance of tomato to saline‐alkali stress. In summary, the modulation of Spd synthesis and Na+/K+ homeostasis mediated by the interaction between SlWRKY81 and SlJAZ1 represents a novel pathway underlying tomato response to saline‐alkali stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cervical cancer (CC), closely linked to persistent human papillomavirus infection, represents a major health problem for women worldwide. The objective of this study is to elucidate KIF23's role in the development of CC and its regulatory mechanism. Methods: The bioinformatics methods were utilized to extract pyroptosis‐associated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and pivot genes from the GSE9750 and GSE63678 datasets, followed by immune infiltration analysis and quantification of these genes' expression. The effects of kinesin family member 23 (KIF23) were verified through functional experiments in vitro and a mouse xenograft model. The NLPR3 activator, nigericin, was applied for further analyzing the potential regulatory mechanism of KIF23 in CC. Results: A total of 8 pyroptosis‐related DEGs were screened out, among which 4 candidate core genes were identified as candidate hub genes and confirmed upregulation in CC tissues and cells. These genes respectively showed a positive correlation with the infiltration of distinct immune cells or tumor purity. Downregulation of KIF23 could suppress the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities in CC cells and tumorigenesis through enhancing pyroptosis. Conversely, KIF23 overexpression accelerated the malignant phenotypes of CC cells and inhibited pyroptosis activation, which was blocked by nigericin treatment. Conclusions: KIF23 may play an oncogenic role in CC progression via inhibition of the NLRP3‐mediated pyroptosis pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High entropy alloys (HEAs) are promising electromagnetic wave absorption (EMA) materials due to its designable crystal structure, variable electromagnetic properties, and excellent corrosion resistance. However, the impedance mismatch owing to the high electric and dielectric conductivity severely hinders the application of HEAs in the field of EMA. Herein, the lattice distortion of FeCoNiCu HEA is manipulated accurately by doping and annealing strategies to tailor the EMA properties. Significant lattice distortion is observed in the FeCoNiCuC0.37, which leads to a decrease in the electrical conductivity and the creation of abundant dipoles. Owing to the optimal impedance matching and boosted polarization loss, the FeCoNiCuC0.37 delivers a minimal reflection loss of −65.4 dB accompanied by an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 6.81 GHz. After annealing at 200 °C, the EAB of the FeCoNiCuC0.37 is further increased to 7.99 GHz at 1.95 mm, which is better than that of most HEA‐based EMA absorbers reported so far. Moreover, it demonstrates excellent corrosion resistance owing to the more tortuous diffusion path of corrosive medium origin from lattice distortion. Thus, the study provides a new insight into designing high performance HEA‐based EMA materials with superior anti‐corrosion property by lattice distortion engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Isatropolone C from Streptomyces sp. CPCC 204095 features a fused cyclopentadienone-tropolone-oxacyclohexadiene tricyclic moiety in its structure. Herein, we report an isatropolone C dimer derivative, di-isatropolone C, formed spontaneously from isatropolone C in methanol. Notably, the structure of di-isatropolone C resolved by NMR reveals a newly formed cyclopentane ring to associate the two isatropolone C monomers. The configurations of four chiral carbons, including a ketal one, in the cyclopentane ring are assigned using quantum NMR calculations and DP4+ probability. The plausible molecular mechanism for di-isatropolone C formation is proposed, in which complex dehydrogenative C-C bond coupling may have happened to connect the two isatropolone C monomers. Like isatropolone C, di-isatropolone C shows the biological activity of inducing autophagy in HepG2 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The significant effect of desert sand on cement-based composites was observed in the previous investigation. However, how the composition of fine aggregate affects the formation of air void structure remains to be investigated. In this paper, mortars composed of five different sand mixtures were prepared, and the specific surface area (SSA) of the sand mixture with different content of fine aggregate was calculated. It was observed that the air void content decreased as the SSA value of the sand mixture increased. A negative-slope linear relation was observed between the SSA values and air void content in the composite construction sand fiber reinforced mortar system. With the increase of SSA, the air void number of every high-strength fiber reinforced mortar decreased from 12,446 to 6652. With the gradual increase of desert sand content, the count of air void number decreased. When the fine aggregate was completely desert sand, the air void content of the fiber-reinforced mortar dropped from 1.21% to 0.98%. Through the analysis of the 3D air void system, it can be concluded that the mixture of fine aggregate with different particle size distributions plays a positive role in optimizing the air void characteristics. Reasonable utilization of desert sand can significantly improve the pore structure characteristics and compressive strength of cement-based composites, which provides an effective theoretical basis for the development and utilization of desert sand resources. The function of different kinds of construction sand in the formation of air-void structure was investigated by X-CT technology. A negative-slope linear relationship was discovered between specific surface area (SSA) values and the entire air void content in the composite construction sand fiber reinforced mortar system. The mixture of river sand and desert sand plays a positive role in optimizing the air void characteristics and compressive strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In nowadays biomedical research, there has been a growing demand for making accurate prediction at subject levels. In many of these situations, data are collected as longitudinal curves and display distinct individual characteristics. Thus, prediction mechanisms accommodated with functional mixed effects models (FMEM) are useful. In this paper, we developed a classified functional mixed model prediction (CFMMP) method, which adapts classified mixed model prediction (CMMP) to the framework of FMEM. Performance of CFMMP against functional regression prediction based on simulation studies and the consistency property of CFMMP estimators are explored. Real‐world applications of CFMMP are illustrated using real world examples including data from the hormone research menstrual cycles and the diffusion tensor imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe study of emulsion stabilization mechanisms is of great importance in the field of crude oil extraction, transportation and processing. In order to further investigate the roles of asphaltenes and surfactants in the emulsion stabilization process, the adsorption mechanisms of asphaltenes and surfactants at the oil-water interface were investigated using dissipative particle dynamics. The results show that: the asphaltene interfacial film gradually becomes thicker before the saturation adsorption of asphaltene molecules at the oil-water interface, and the interfacial tension decreases with the increase of the number of molecules until it reaches the equilibrium state; different surfactant molecules have different influences on the interface, and the calculations of the radial distribution function and the interfacial tension show that H2T4 molecules have a stronger effect than H4T4 at the oil-water interface and have stronger surface activity. H2T4 reaches saturation adsorption capacity faster than H4T4 and has higher interfacial efficiency. The asphaltene-surfactant composite system can stabilize the oil-water interface more effectively. Competitive and synergistic effects of asphaltene and surfactant in the process of interfacial adsorption. When the concentration of surfactant in the composite system is low, there is a synergistic effect between the two in the interfacial adsorption process; when the concentration of surfactant is high, there is a competitive effect between the two in the synergistic adsorption process. The surfactant H4T4 has both interfacial adsorption and self-aggregation in the competitive adsorption process. This paper provides ideas for exploring the kinematic laws of molecular behavior in the stabilization mechanism of crude oil emulsions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The construction of 3D porous structures and metamaterials (MMs) is the most promising approaches to achieve broadband electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption. However, it is still a huge challenge to achieve multispectral ultra‐broadband EMW absorption properties compatible with low‐frequency band (L‐ and S‐band) due to its ultralong wavelength and strong bypass capability. Herein, magnetic–dielectric synergistic gradient MMs (MDSGM) consisting of oriented flaky carbonyl iron (FCI) film and periodical RGO/CNT/CNF aerogel (GTFA) array are demonstrated. Benefiting from the synergistic effect of strong magnetic–dielectric loss, structural loss, and excellent impedance matching, MDSGM harvests an exciting multispectral ultra‐broadband EMW absorption performance with a remarkable effective absorption bandwidth covering the whole measured frequency of 1–40, 50–110 GHz, and 0.1–2.0 THz for the first time. The minimum RL (RLmin) reaches −40.24 dB and average RL is up to −19.3 dB (98.8% EMW being absorbed) in microwave band. Moreover, this multispectral ultra‐broadband EMW absorption property is less affected by the incident angle. This work pioneered realization of multispectral ultra‐broadband EMW absorption compatible with low‐frequency, which provides a great thrust for the development of stealth technology in the upcoming smart era. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nursing students require improvement in their intravenous infusion therapy management skills, yet traditional training models possess deficiencies. The Teaching for Understanding (TfU) Framework can enhance the teaching-learning process and support quality education. Therefore, utilizing TfU framework for training may promote the performance of nurses. Methods: Utilizing a non-synchronized design, 102 nurses were recruited using a convenience sampling method. Fifty-one student nurses from August 2019 to January 2021 were designated as the control group, and 51 student nurses from February 2021 to July 2022 were included as the intervention group. The control group received traditional teaching methods, while the intervention group was trained based on TfU framework. The impact was gauged through medical education environment perception, theory and practice assessments, and learning satisfaction surveys. Results: After the training, there was no significant difference between the control group and the intervention group in the theory assessment. However, the practice assessment scores of the intervention group were significantly higher than those of the control group. Compared with the control group, the learning satisfaction scores of the trained nurses in the intervention group were significantly higher, exhibiting significant differences, particularly in communication ability, teamwork cooperation, summing up capability, and interest in learning improvement. Furthermore, the scores of the learning perceptions, atmosphere, social self-perceptions, and total scores of the intervention group were significantly higher. Conclusion: Training using TfU framework can heighten students' understanding and command over knowledge and skills, fuel their learning fervor, and enhance their communication and collaboration abilities. TfU framework should be disseminated in medical education to improve the quality of education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Activation of peracetic acid (PAA) by Fe species is the attractive advanced oxidation processes for the removal of antibiotics. However, achieving optimal performance in many of these processes often requires acidic pH conditions, which impedes practical application. In this study, an iron electrocoagulation (EC) system was devised to for activate PAA and oxidate sulfamethoxazole (SMX). Under optimal conditions, the degradation of SMX by the EC/PAA system reached 96.2% within 15 min, with a pseudo-first order reaction constant of 0.241 min−1, but only consuming 0.044 kW·h/m3. Interestingly, the EC/PAA system showed a high buffering capacity in the initial pH range of 4–8 to maintain the final pH of around 7. The quenching experiments revealed both free radical and non-free radical pathways involved in the oxidation of SMX in the EC/PAA system. Specifically, the active species, including •OH, organic radicals (CH 3 COO• and CH 3 COOO•) and 1O 2 , contribute 86.77%, 5.53% and 7.70%, respectively. These findings suggest that the EC/PAA system has unique advantages and potential for the degradation of antibiotic organics such as SMX in aquatic environments due to its strong oxidative capacity, wide pH range and high buffering capacity. [Display omitted] • PAA was effectively activated by iron electrocoagulation at a wide pH range. • In-situ OH- production on cathode offered unique efficient buffering capacity. • OH was the major reactive oxidant for sulfamethoxazole degradation. • Organic radicals (CH 3 COO• and CH 3 COOO•) and 1O 2 also contributes to the oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The structural stability of silt foundations, particularly sensitive to moisture content, can be severely compromised by recurring wetting and drying processes. This not only threatens the foundational integrity but also raises grave concerns about the long-term safety of major civil engineering endeavors. Addressing this critical issue, our study delves into the transformative effects of reclaimed polyester fiber on subgrade silt exposed to such environmental stressors. Through rigorous wet–dry cycle tests on this enhanced soil, we evaluate shifts in shear strength across varying confining pressures. We also dissect the interplay between average pore diameter, particle distribution, and morphology in influencing the soil's microstructural responses to these cycles. A detailed analysis traces the structural damage timeline in the treated soil, elucidating the intertwined micro–macro dynamics driving strength reduction. Key discoveries indicate a notably non-linear trajectory of shear strength degradation, marked by distinct phases of rapid, subdued, and stabilized strength attrition. Alterations within the micropores induce a rise in both their count and size, ultimately diminishing the total volume proportion of the reinforced soil. Intriguingly, particle distribution is directly tied to the wet–dry cycle frequency, while the fractal dimension of soil particles consistently wanes. This research identifies cement hydrolysis and pore expansion as the dominant culprits behind the observed macroscopic strength degradation due to incessant wet–dry cycles. These revelations hold profound implications for risk management and infrastructural strategizing in areas dominated by silt foundations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Technical challenges associated with the treatment of silt subgrades frequently arise in coastal and river delta areas. Given the importance of environmental sustainability, the selection of efficient, cost-effective, and eco-friendly techniques for silt subgrade stabilization is paramount. While recycled polyester fibers primarily sourced from discarded polyester bottles have not yet been systematically employed in silt subgrade reinforcement, their potential is considerable. This paper offers a comprehensive review of the existing literature on the microstructural, physicochemical, and mechanical properties of silt, summarizing prior advancements in silt stabilization methodologies. Building upon this foundation, we introduce a novel approach utilizing recycled polyester fibers for silt subgrade improvement, outlining both its application prospects and challenges, which require further investigation. The findings of this study serve as a robust scientific foundation for the broader adoption and engineering implementation of this technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utilizing regenerated polyester fibers (RPFs) for the reinforcement of silty road bases not only enhances the soil's engineering performance but also offers a sustainable method for repurposing waste polyester bottles. To investigate the engineering properties and microscopic behaviors of this reinforced silty soil, a series of extensive physico-mechanical tests were conducted, supplemented by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analyses. These evaluations focused on the influence of variables such as fiber content, fiber length, moisture content, and curing duration on the modified soil's performance. The fiber content of the test was 0–1%, and the fiber length was 6–17 mm. The results indicate that curing age had a less significant impact on liquid and plastic limits than the addition of fiber, along with a marginal decline in the plasticity index over time. The rate of shrinkage in the unmodified soil was between 1.04 and 1.45 times higher than that in the fiber-reinforced soil, indicating effective shrinkage control by the fibers. However, variations in maximum dry density (ρdmax) were insignificant across different fiber contents, while a slight increase was observed in the optimum moisture content (OMC) as fiber dosage increased. After a 28-day curing period, the resilient modulus and California Bearing Ratio (CBR) met highway road base design standards. A decline in unconfined compressive strength was noted when the fiber dosage exceeded 0.2%. The addition of fibers mitigated diagonal cracking and shifted the failure pattern towards a more ductile mode. This research contributes scientific insights for the broader application and promotion of silty road base improvement techniques using RPFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Late embryogenesis abundant proteins are a widely occurring class of osmoregulation-related proteins found in various organisms. Saussurea involucrata is an extremely low-temperature tolerant plant with valuable germplasm resources. Transcriptomic sequencing revealed that cold stress upregulated the expression of SiLEA B19.3 in S. involucrata. In this study, SiLEA B19.3 was isolated from S. involucrata , and a plant overexpression vector was constructed to transform SiLEA B19.3 into tomato. Our results demonstrate that transgenic tomato plants exhibited greater stability and recovery ability than wild-type plants when exposed to cold stress. Physiological and biochemical data showed that transgenic tomatoes exhibited lower electrolyte leakage and malondialdehyde content, higher relative water content and antioxidant enzyme activity, and accumulated more osmoregulatory substances than wild-type plants. Meanwhile, the semi-lethal low temperatures of the transgenic and wild-type tomatoes were 2.52 ℃ and 3.99 ℃, respectively. These results indicate that SiLEA B19.3 plays a protective role in cells under low-temperature stress. The results of the field experiment showed that the transgenic tomato plants had higher photosynthetic capacity and higher yield than the wild-type tomato plants. Thus, SiLEA B19.3 has the potential to be a candidate gene for genetic improvement of crop stress resistance in the future and has valuable potential applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-dimensional (2D) ice I is atomic-level ice that is composed of two interlocked atomic layers saturated with hydrogen bonds. It has recently been experimentally observed, but its properties have yet to be clarified. Accordingly, we theoretically studied the hydrophobic properties of 2D ice I. On the contrary, a simulation of a hydrogen fluoride molecule on a 2D ice surface manifested that it destroyed the 2D ice structure and connected new hydrogen bonds with water molecules. Investigations of the interfacial effect between 2D and three-dimensional (3D) ice films indicated that the network structure of 2D ice was not destroyed by a 3D ice surface, as the former was saturated with hydrogen bonds. However, the surface of 3D ice reorganized to form as many hydrogen bonds as possible. Thus, the 2D ice film was hydrophobic and inhibited the growth of 3D ice. This shows that if 2D ice can be produced on an industrial scale, it can be used as an anti-3D-icing agent under low temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to explore the molecular mechanism underlying the therapeutic effect of salvianolic acid C (SAC) on osteoporosis. Methods: Osteoporotic (OVX) rats were used as the model, and the impacts of SAC treatment on their serum and urine biochemical indicators were assessed. The biomechanical parameters of these rats were also evaluated. The effects of SAC treatment on the bone of OVX rats was quantified using hematoxylin & eosin staining and alizarin red staining, which reflect calcium deposition. The potential signaling pathway involved in SAC treatment was identified and confirmed through Western blotting, AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) inhibitors, and sirtuin‐1 (small interfering RNA‐SIRT1). Results: The results showed that SAC could ameliorate the serum and urine biochemical metabolism, and the pathological alterations of bone tissue in OVX rats. SAC promoted the osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal cells in OVX rats, one of the key mechanisms for modulation of Runx2, Osx, and OCN, involved in the AMPK/SIRT1 signaling pathway. Conclusion: The findings from this study suggest that SAC promotes the osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in osteoporotic rats by activating the AMPK/SIRT1 pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, many positioning technologies complementary to Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) are providing ubiquitous positioning services, especially the coupling positioning of Pedestrian Dead Reckoning (PDR) and other signals. Magnetic field signals are stable and ubiquitous, while Digital Terrestrial Multimedia Broadcasting (DTMB) signals have strong penetration and stable transmission over a large range. To improve the positioning performance of PDR, this paper proposes a robust PDR integrating magnetic field signals and DTMB signals. In our study, the Spiking Neural Network (SNN) is first used to learn the magnetic field signals of the environment, and then the learning model is used to detect the magnetic field landmarks. At the same time, the DTMB signals are collected by the self-developed signal receiver, and then the carrier phase ranging of the DTMB signals is realized. Finally, robust pedestrian positioning is achieved by integrating position information from magnetic field landmarks and ranging information from DTMB signals through Extended Kalman Filter (EKF). We have conducted indoor and outdoor field tests to verify the proposed method, and the outdoor field test results showed that the positioning error cumulative distribution of the proposed method reaches 2.84 m at a 68% probability level, while that of the PDR only reaches 8.77 m. The proposed method has been validated to be effective and has good positioning performance, providing an alternative solution for seamless indoor and outdoor positioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study was to conduct prediction models based on parameters before and after the first cycle, respectively, to predict live births in women who received fresh or frozen in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) for the first time. Methods: This retrospective cohort study population consisted of 1,857 women undergoing the IVF cycle from 2019 to 2021 at Huizhou Municipal Central Hospital. The data between 2019 and 2020 were completely randomly divided into a training set and a validation set (8:2). The data from 2021 was used as the testing set, and the bootstrap validation was carried out by extracting 30% of the data for 200 times on the total data set. In the training set, variables are divided into those before the first cycle and after the first cycle. Then, predictive factors before the first cycle and after the first cycle were screened. Based on the predictive factors, four supervised machine learning algorithms were respectively considered to build the predictive models: logistic regression (LR), random forest (RF), extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), and light gradient boosting machine (LGBM). The performances of the prediction models were evaluated by the area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and accuracy. Results: Totally, 851 women (45.83%) had a live birth. The LGBM model showed a robust performance in predicting live birth before the first cycle, with AUC being 0.678 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.651 to 0.706] in the training set, 0.612 (95% CI: 0.553 to 0.670) in the validation set, 0.634 (95% CI: 0.511 to 0.758) in the testing set, and 0.670 (95% CI: 0.626 to 0.715) in the bootstrap validation. The AUC value in the training set, validation set, testing set, and bootstrap of LGBM to predict live birth after the first cycle was 0.841 (95% CI: 0.821 to 0.861), 0.816 (95% CI: 0.773 to 0.859), 0.835 (95% CI: 0.743 to 0.926), and 0.839 (95% CI: 0.806 to 0.871), respectively. Conclusion: The LGBM model based on the predictive factors before and after the first cycle for live birth in women showed a good predictive performance. Therefore, it may assist fertility specialists and patients to adjust the appropriate treatment strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is frequently associated with β-adrenergic stimulation, especially in patients with structural heart diseases. The objective of this study was to determine the synergism of late sodium current (late INa) and Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase (CaMKII)-mediated arrhythmogenic activities in β-adrenergic overactivation-associated AF. Monophasic action potential, conduction properties, protein phosphorylation, ion currents and cellular trigger activities were measured from rabbit-isolated hearts, atrial tissue and atrial myocytes, respectively. Isoproterenol (ISO, 1–15 nM) increased atrial conduction inhomogeneity index, phospho-Nav1.5 and phospho-CaMKII protein levels and late INa by 108%, 65%, 135% and 87%, respectively, and induced triggered activities and episodes of AF in all hearts studied (p < 0.05). Sea anemone toxin II (ATX-II, 2 nM) was insufficient to induce any atrial arrhythmias, whereas the propensities of AF were greater in hearts treated with a combination of ATX-II and ISO. Ranolazine, eleclazine and KN-93 abolished ISO-induced AF, attenuated the phosphorylation of Nav1.5 and CaMKII, and reversed the increase of late INa (p < 0.05) in a synergistic mode. Overall, late INa in association with the activation of CaMKII potentiates β-adrenergic stimulation-induced AF and the inhibition of both late INa and CaMKII exerted synergistic anti-arrhythmic effects to suppress atrial arrhythmic activities associated with catecholaminergic activation. This article is part of the theme issue 'The heartbeat: its molecular basis and physiological mechanisms'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reinforced concrete structures in the marine environment face serious corrosion risks. Coating protection and adding corrosion inhibitors are the most economical and effective methods. In this study, a nano-composite anti-corrosion filler with a mass ratio of CeO2:GO = 4:1 was prepared by hydrothermally growing cerium oxide on the surface of graphene oxide. The filler was mixed with pure epoxy resin at a mass fraction of 0.5% to prepare a nano-composite epoxy coating. The basic properties of the prepared coating were evaluated from the aspects of surface hardness, adhesion grade, and anti-corrosion performance on Q235 low carbon steel subjected to simulated seawater and simulated concrete pore solutions. Results showed that after 90 days of service, the corrosion current density of the nanocomposite coating mixed with corrosion inhibitor was the lowest (Icorr = 1.001 × 10−9 A/cm2), and the protection efficiency was up to 99.92%. This study provides a theoretical foundation for solving the corrosion problem of Q235 low carbon steel in the marine environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NaNbO 3 anti-ferroelectric (AFE) material exhibits a unique and irreversible phase transition, which makes it change into ferroelectric phase and prevents its implementation in high energy storage material. In this work, we use an approach to stabilize the anti-ferroelectric phase at room temperature by the modification of K+ in NaO–Nb 2 O 5 –CaO–B 2 O 3 –SiO 2 –ZrO 2 - x K + glass-ceramics. The correlation between K+ content and anti-ferroelectric stability is studied through the X-ray diffraction, microstructure, and dielectric properties. It is found that ferroelectric phase gradually transforms to anti-ferroelectric phase first and then anti-ferroelectric phase disappears with K+ doping in glass-ceramic due to two mechanisms that the un-crystallized modifier K+ into glass network reduce the connectivity of the glass network, the activation energy needed for crystallization and the tolerance factor (t), besides overmuch K+ into NaNbO 3 crystalline phase leads to the increase of tolerance factor and the production of impurity phase. The phase transition has been confirmed through the double polarization loops, AFE phase and permittivity peak. The results show that the K+ doped into NaO–Nb 2 O 5 –CaO–B 2 O 3 –SiO 2 –ZrO 2 - x K + glass system can effectively stabilize AFE phase, when x ＞4%, the stability of NaNbO 3 anti-ferroelectric phase will decrease and impurity phases will precipitate in glass-ceramic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is a mutual influence between COVID-19, diabetes ketoacidosis, and acute pancreatitis, with clinical manifestations overlapping each other, which can lead to misdiagnosis and delayed treatment that could aggravate the condition and affect the prognosis. COVID-19-induced diabetes ketoacidosis and acute pancreatitis are extremely rare, with only four case reports in adults and no cases yet reported in children. Case presentation: We reported a case of acute pancreatitis associated with diabetic ketoacidosis in a 12-year-old female child post novel coronavirus infection. The patient presented with vomiting, abdominal pain, shortness of breath, and confusion. Laboratory findings showed elevated levels of inflammatory markers, hypertriglyceridemia, and high blood glucose. The patient was treated with fluid resuscitation, insulin, anti-infection treatments, somatostatin, omeprazole, low-molecular-weight heparin, and nutritional support. Blood purification was administered to remove inflammatory mediators. The patient's symptoms improved, and blood glucose levels stabilized after 20 days of admission. Conclusion: The case highlights the need for greater awareness and understanding of the interrelated and mutually promoting conditions of COVID-19, diabetes ketoacidosis, and acute pancreatitis among clinicians, to reduce misdiagnosis and missed diagnoses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under the influence of the far-field effect of the India-Asia convergence, the Tianshan Mountains have become a typical area of Cenozoic resurrection orogeny, a natural laboratory for continental geodynamics. However, the study of its uplift exhumation history is still controversial. Based on a detailed magnetostratigraphic study of sediments in a 501.29 m deep drill core, located in the Yili Basin that is sandwiched between the Northern and Southern Tianshan Mountains, a total of 202 samples were used to establish magnetostratigraphy. Characteristic remnant magnetization with both normal (N1–N7) and reversed (R1–R7) polarity was isolated by thermal demagnetization. The maximum age can be obtained at the bottom of the borehole profile is 1.95 Ma. Our results show that a significant increase in sedimentation rate as well as notable shift in depositional environment occurred at ~ 0.99–0.78 Ma, which represents the uplift of the northwest Tianshan Mountain and one subsequent rapid uplift event in early Pleistocene time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Panax ginseng (P. ginseng), the dried root and rhizome of P. ginseng C. A. Meyer, is widely used in many fields as dietary supplements and medicine. To characterize the chemical constituents in P. ginseng cultivated in different growth environments, a UPLC-TOF-MS method was established for qualitative analysis. Four hundred and eight ginsenosides, including 81 new compounds, were characterized in P. ginseng from different regions. Among the detected compounds, 361 ginsenosides were recognized in P. ginseng cultivated in the region of Monsoon Climate of Medium Latitudes, possessing the largest amount of ginsenosides in all samples. Furthermore, 41 ginsenosides in 12 batches of P. ginsengs were quantified with a UPLC-MRM-MS method, and P. ginsengs from different regions were distinguished via chemometric analysis. This study showed that the different environments have a greater influence on P. ginseng, which laid a foundation for further quality control of the herb. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Buffer materials that are used to isolate heat-emitting waste canisters must bear a strong thermal load and have good thermal conductivity and stability. This study investigated the strengthening of internal thermal conduction via bentonite sealing. An admixture of quartz and graphite accelerated the heat transfer into the host rock. Samples containing different bentonite–sand–graphite (BSG) mixtures were prepared. The influence of the volumetric water content, degree of saturation, dry density, porosity, sand content, and particle size on the thermal conductivity of the BSG mixtures was analyzed by conducting a series of thermal needle tests. Electrical resistivity tests were conducted to examine the electrical resistivity of the BSG mixtures, and the dependency of soil thermal conductivity on the volumetric water content based on electrical resistivity data. The results indicated that the dependency of thermal conductivity on the volumetric water content was closely related to electrical resistivity. Based on the thermal conductivity inflection point as determined by the volumetric water content corresponding to the electrical resistivity inflection point, an improved series–parallel thermal conductivity prediction model and the method to determine model parameters for the unsaturated BSG mixtures were proposed. The precision of the proposed prediction model was verified based on laboratory data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asphaltenes are the most polar component with the largest average molecular mass in crude oil, and they are important to investigate the effect of the interfacial activity of asphaltene on the efficiency of wax removal. In order to investigate the effect of in-situ asphaltene utilization on the wax removal rate, a dynamic wax removal device is developed. The effects of the asphaltene mass fraction, the water temperature, the cold finger temperature, and the rotation speed of a rotating cylinder on the wax removal rate of the pipeline at a specific mass fraction are investigated. The results show that the wax removal rate increases and then decreases with the increase in asphaltenes mass fraction, and the maximum rate is 3.5%. The wax removal rate considerably increases at 3.5% asphaltenes mass fraction with the increase in the water temperature; the increase in cold finger temperature and the rotation speed of rotating cylinder also contributes to the wax removal increase in rate. The optimal wax removal rate was 5.8 g/min by orthogonal test. In addition, the wax removal rate increased significantly with the increase in water temperature; the increase in cold finger temperature and the increase in rotor speed also contributed to the increase in wax removal rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sensitive, compact detector for the simultaneous measurement of O3 and NO2 is presented in this work. There are two channels in the detector, namely the Ox channel and the NO2 channel. In the presence of excess NO, ambient O3 is converted to NO2 in the Ox measurement channel. In both channels, NO2 is directly detected via cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS) at 409 nm. At a 10 s integration time, the Ox and NO2 channels have a 1σ precision of 14.5 and 13.5 pptv, respectively. The Allan deviation plot shows that the optimal sensitivity of O3 and NO2 occurs at an integration time of ~60 s, with values of 10.2 and 8.5 pptv, respectively. The accuracy is 6% for the O3 channel and 5% for the NO2 channel, and the largest uncertainty comes from the effective NO2 absorption cross-section. Intercomparison of the NO2 detection between the NO2 and Ox channels shows good agreement within their uncertainties, with an absolute shift of 0.31 ppbv, a correlation coefficient of R2 = 0.99 and a slope of 0.98. Further intercomparison for ambient O3 measurement between the O3/NO2-CRDS developed in this work and a commercial UV O3 monitor also shows excellent agreement, with linear regression slopes close to unity and an R2 value of 0.99 for 1 min averaged data. The system was deployed to measure O3 and NO2 concentrations in Hefei, China, and the observation results show obvious diurnal variation characteristics. The successful deployment of the system has demonstrated that the instrument can provide a new method for retrieving fast variations in ambient O3 and NO2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Besides the traditional roles of HBA1 and HBB, recent findings suggest that hemoglobin genes may have roles in other contexts. In the present study, we aim to investigate a possible tumor-suppressor role of HBA1 and HBB in acute myeloid leukemia. Quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) was performed to detect the expression levels of HBA1 and HBB in acute myeloid leukemia patients and AML cell lines. The transfected cells were analyzed for Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), apoptosis, and cell cycle assay. HBA1 and HBB genes were significantly decreased in acute myeloid leukemia patients and AML cell lines. Furthermore, in vitro approaches showed that overexpression of HBA1 and HBB inhibited proliferation, induced cell apoptosis, and blocked cell cycle process at the G2/M phase in K562 cells. Our data indicated that HBA1 and HBB genes may be potential tumor-suppressor genes in acute myeloid leukemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Frost on the evaporator surface of an air source heat pump can seriously reduce the heat pump coefficient of the unit, and the surface nanostructure is the key to effectively inhibiting water vapour condensation in the early stages of frosting. In this paper, the wetting process of nanodroplets on square column type, prismatic cone type and prismatic platform nanostructures was studied by molecular dynamics, and the nucleation and growth process of water vapour on three nanostructures were analysed. It was found that the droplets in the prismatic cone structure were less likely to reach a stable wetting state than in the other two structures. For the condensation process of water vapour on the surface of the three nanostructures, water molecules are more distributed on the surface of the prismatic cone matrix with a smaller size, and less distributed on the surface of the square column matrix with a larger size. The order of the clusters starting to merge is square column matrix, prismatic platform matrix and prismatic cone matrix. The results showed that the stable coagulation rates are, in descending order, a square columnar matrix, a prismatic platform matrix and a prismatic cone matrix. With the increase in the height of the prismatic cone matrix surface structure, the condensation rate of water vapour accelerates, the droplet size increases, and the condensation nucleus decreases. These findings can provide microscopic and fundamental suggestions for surface structure design to inhibit the early frosting of water vapour in the air. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: The 5-HT2A receptor is the major target of classic hallucinogens. Both DOI (2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine) and lisuride act at 5-HT2A receptors, and lisuride shares comparable affinity with DOI and acts as a partial agonist at 5-HT2A receptors. However, not like DOI, lisuride lacks hallucinogenic properties. Impulsive decision-making refers to the preference for an immediate small reinforcer (SR) over a delayed large reinforcer (LR). Objectives: The current study aims to compare the effects of DOI and lisuride on impulsive decision-making and further to investigate the possible receptor mechanisms responsible for the actions of the two drugs. Methods: Impulsive decision-making was evaluated in male Sprague–Dawley rats by the percentage of choice for the LR in delay discounting task (DDT). Delay to the LR changed in an ascending order (0, 4, 8, 16, and 32 s) across one session. Results: DOI (0.5 and 1.0 mg/kg) increased impulsive decision-making, and the effects of DOI (1.0 mg/kg) were blocked by the 5-HT2A receptor antagonist ketanserin (1.0 mg/kg) rather than the 5-HT2C receptor antagonist SB-242084 (1.0 mg/kg). Contrarily, lisuride (0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 mg/kg) decreased impulsive decision-making. The effects of lisuride (0.3 mg/kg) were not antagonized by ketanserin (1.0 mg/kg), selective 5-HT1A antagonist WAY-100635 (1.0 mg/kg), or selective dopamine D4 receptor antagonist L-745870 (1.0 mg/kg) but were attenuated by the selective dopamine D2/D3 receptor antagonist tiapride (40 mg/kg). Conclusions: DOI and lisuride have contrasting effects on impulsive decision-making via distinct receptorsDOI-induced increase of impulsivity is mediated by the 5-HT2A receptor, while lisuride-induced inhibition of impulsivity is regulated by the dopamine D2/D3 receptor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the unique hydrophobic and lipophobic physicochemical properties of hydrophobic perfluorocarbons (PFs), here we report a conjugate of a double fluorine-containing lipid and oligonucleotide that can self-assemble into a F-DNAsome to achieve targeted drug delivery to cancer cells. The fluorine-containing DNAsomes (F-DNAsomes) self-assembled from DNA amphiphilic molecules have good biocompatibility, high drug encapsulation ability, enhanced stability and DNA surface modification ability. After integrating the nucleic acid aptamer Sgc8 on the surface of F-DNAsomes through sequence-specific hybridization, this aptamer-functionalized nanosystem can selectively deliver the chemotherapeutic drug doxorubicin (DOX) to targeted cancer cell lines and show higher inhibition efficiency toward cell growth. Studies reveal that the combination of the F-DNAsome structure and the unique physicochemical properties of PFs not only enhances its stability, but also shows potential as nanocarriers for targeted cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dexamethasone (DXM) or immunoglobulin (IVIg) are first-line therapies for primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), with an effective rate of 80 %. Some patients with both severe bleeding symptoms and platelet counts of <30 × 109/L received a combination of DXM and IVIg. Autoimmune disorders, especially involving CD4+ T-cells, play a key role in the pathogenesis of ITP. We assumed that variations in the immune status of CD4+ T-cells will lead to different treatment responses. Until now, there have been few relevant clinical studies on CD4+ T-cells and the outcome of first-line therapies. A prospective study enrolling 42 newly diagnosed ITP patients and 30 normal control volunteers was performed. The profiles of major CD4+ T-cells, including T helper (Th)1, Th2, Th17, and regulatory T (Treg) cells, and the related levels of interleukin (IL)-2, IL-17, and IL-23 were examined. The platelet number was recorded at the time point of day 0, day 14, and day 30. Greater concentrations of Th1 and Th17 cells and lower relative numbers of Treg cells were found in the ITP group. As for the treatment outcome on day 14, the profiles of Th2 and IL-2 were significantly greater in the NR group, while the expression of IL-17 was elevated in the CR group. As for the treatment outcome on day 30, higher levels of Th2 cells were observed in those patients who needed 2× pulses of HD DXM compared to those who needed only 1× pulse of HD DXM and IVIg, and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that lower Treg cell may predict favorable values. Meanwhile, the higher IL-23 value may predict a poor early response. Our results indicate that Th1, Th17, and Treg cells and IL-2 and IL-23 participate in the onset of ITP. Higher profiles of Th2, IL-2 and IL-23 may predict poor treatment outcomes. Higher levels of IL-17 and lower profile of Treg may predict sensitivity to HD DXM and IVIg combination therapy. • T helper (Th)1, and regulatory T (Treg)-cells and interleukin (IL)-2 and IL-23 participate in the onset of ITP. • Higher profiles of Th2, IL-2 and IL-23 may predict poor outcomes with dexamethasone and immunoglobulin combined treatment. • Higher levels of IL-17 and lower profile of Treg cells may predict the sensitivity response to first line combined therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical warfare agents (CWAs) are significant threats to human peace and global safety. Most of the personal protective equipment in service used to barrier CWAs is devoid of decontamination activity. Rechargeable N‐halamine‐based detoxifying nanofibers/graphene chemical protective aerogels (HNAs) with ternary pores bearing π‐conjugation galleries that can effectively capture mustard gas through halogen bonds and convert them into the nontoxic products are proposed. Microporous nanofibers together with graphene construct a robust lamellar conjugated system dominated by π‐π interactions, providing interconnected channels for rapid dispersion and diffusion of contaminated fluid. The resulting HNAs exhibit integrated performances of low density, hierarchical porosity, a speedy recovery after a significant deformation, rechargeable vesicants decontamination (half‐life of 1.52 min), and low filtration resistance. The successful fabrication of the intriguing materials provides new insights into the generation of reliable, rechargeable, structurally adaptable, and long‐term usable real‐time detoxifying adsorbents for chemical personal protective equipment application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lamellar structure of graphene oxide and the filling effect of nano-cerium oxide particles together provide a good barrier and stability to coating. In this paper, cerium oxide-graphene oxide (4:1) nanocomposite was prepared by the hydrothermal synthesis method. The effect of cerium oxide–graphene oxide (4:1) nanocomposite on the anticorrosion properties of epoxy coating in simulated acid rain solution was studied by open circuit potential (OCP), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), Mott–Schottky curve, Tafel curve, and micromorphological characterization, in order to compare it with pure epoxy coating, graphene oxide epoxy coating, and cerium oxide epoxy coating. The obtained results showed that cerium oxide–graphene oxide (4:1) epoxy coating's protection efficiency was as high as 98.62%. These results indicated that cerium oxide–graphene oxide modified anticorrosive coating had an excellent application prospect in an acid rain environment. Meanwhile, owing to the poor protection ability of epoxy resin and unstably hydrolysis product of CeO2 to the acidic medium, the resistance of CeO2–GO (4:1)/EP coating to acidic corrosive medium was relatively poorer than that of neutral and saline-alkali corrosive medium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A crucial and fundamental type of precipitation monitoring is the automatic observation of precipitation by ground stations. However, the typical quality control methods that are applied to rainfall present restrictions because of their discontinuities in time and space. The multi-component comprehensive consistency approach is a subjective quality control method that uses changes in other weather components associated with the precipitation process. The present study determined the reference weather components for precipitation by calculating the correlation coefficients between weather components and precipitation, and the proportions that passed the significance tests. These components included air pressure, visibility, relative humidity, wind speed, temperature difference, and the sum of cloud covers of 125–875 hPa. This study introduced various gridded fusion products to fill in the empty spaces of weather components, and put forward a scoring method to convert a subjective method into an objective method. The outcomes of the scoring method are assessed using the artificial quality control results. The evaluation's findings demonstrate that the scoring method's accuracy in every period of precipitation is greater than 0.75, meeting the need for objective quality control of real-time surface precipitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anti-angiogenesis drugs are applicable in treating advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC); however, the related data regarding apatinib, a Chinese domestic anti-vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) production, are limited. Therefore, this study explored the efficacy and safety of apatinib plus platinum doublet chemotherapy in treating patients with advanced NSCLC.Methods: Twenty-four patients with advanced NSCLC were retrospectively enrolled. All patients received platinum doublet chemotherapy combined with apatinib 250 mg daily. The objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and adverse events were analyzed.Results: Zero (0.0%), seven (29.2%), 11 (45.8%), and six (25.0%) patients had partial response (PR), stable disease (SD), and progressed disease (PD), respectively, resulting in an ORR of 29.2% and a DCR of 75.0%. The median PFS was 12.6 months (95% CI: 3.9-21.3 months) with a 1-year PFS of 56.1%, and the median OS was 18.3 months (95% CI: 13.0-23.5 months) with a 1-year OS of 73.9%. Age ≤60 years (P = 0.034), ECOG performance score 1 (vs. 2; P = 0.005), and first-line treatment (vs. second or higher line treatment; P = 0.043) correlated with longer PFS. The most common treatment-related adverse events included fatigue (83.3%), nausea (79.2%), myelosuppression (70.8), and vomiting (66.7%), while most of them were mild and manageable. Only four (16.6%) patients witnessed grade 3-4 myelosuppression.Conclusion: Apatinib plus platinum doublet chemotherapy is effective and well-tolerated in treating patients with advanced NSCLC; moreover, reduced ECOG PS and lower lines of treatment relate to its better efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multifunctionalization is the future development trend for electromagnetic wave absorption (EMA) materials to satisfy practical scenarios. In this manuscript, a lightweight RGO/MWCNT modified melamine sponge (CGMFs) with a 3D porous triple-continuous network is developed, which exhibit much enhanced microwave absorption performance and multifunctional characteristics. The micro/nano-structure and EMA performance of CGMFs can be effectively controlled by adjusting the concentration and proportion of RGO and MWCNT. It is found that excellent impedance matching property from the 3D porous structure and strong electromagnetic wave (EMW) dissipation property of RGO and MWCNT network can synergistically enhanced the broadband EMA performance. The CGMFs present remarkable effective absorption bandwidth (EAB, reflection loss value ≤ −10 dB) of 10.8 GHz and extremely high reflection loss value of −50.43 dB at a thickness of 4.6 mm. Moreover, the CGMFs exhibit good mechanical stability, which can be compressed, bent, and twisted arbitrarily. Benefiting from enhanced hydrophobicity, heat insulation, and nonflammability, the CGMFs also exbibit attractive functions of self-cleaning, thermal insulation, infrared stealth, and flame retardancy. This study paves the way for scalable fabrication of next-generation multifunctional high-performance broadband EMA materials for practical application. [Display omitted] • Lightweight RGO/MWCNT modified melamine sponge (CGMFs) with a 3D porous triple-continuous network is developed. • The CGMFs present remarkable effective absorption bandwidth of 10.8 GHz and high reflection loss value of −50.43 dB. • The CGMFs present good multifunction of self-cleaning, thermal insulation, infrared stealth, and flame retardancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deformation in a rock mass in deeply buried fault zones induced by active fault slip significantly affects the operational safety of long linear tunnels passing through it. The creep slip movement, deep in situ stress condition, and rock mass characteristics of the active fault zone are the significant factors in exploring the mechanical response of deep-buried fault-cross tunnels. This paper used a new experimental setup to simulate fault creep slip, fully considering the above research factors. A three-dimensional load function, slip mechanism with variable angles, and flexible loading device with airbags and air springs were installed in this test system. We developed new types of modeling material, and tests were conducted to obtain the deformation and failure characteristics of tunnel lining subjected to creep slip. Also, the feasibility and reliability of the setup were verified. The test results imply that the tunnel failure was distributed within 3.5 to 4.0 times the tunnel diameter. The tunnel lining failure is strongly dependent on the S-shaped displacement mode and its hill-shaped displacement gradient mode. This study helps to provide a design basis for a tunnel structure crossing deeply buried active faults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) is the core of cellular energy metabolism. NAMPT, Sirtuins, PARP, CD38, and other molecules in this classic metabolic pathway affect many key cellular functions and are closely related to the occurrence and development of many diseases. In recent years, several studies have found that these molecules can regulate cell energy metabolism, promote the release of related cytokines, induce the expression of neoantigens, change the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), and then play an anticancer role. Drugs targeting these molecules are under development or approved for clinical use. Although there are some side effects and drug resistance, the discovery of novel drugs, the development of combination therapies, and the application of new technologies provide solutions to these challenges and improve efficacy. This review presents the mechanisms of action of NAD pathway-related molecules in tumor immunity, advances in drug research, combination therapies, and some new technology-related therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application safety of rigid polyurethane foam (RPUF) is greatly restricted by its flammable characteristics, and the existing inorganic flame retardants have dispersibility and compatibility problems with organic matrices. Taking advantage of the good coating performance and chemical structure of biomass polydopamine (PDA), an inorganic additive flame retardant aluminium hydroxide (ATH) with biomass surface modification was prepared. The effects of unmodified and silane coupling agent modified flame retardants on the thermal, mechanical, and flame retardant properties of RPUF were compared. The study found that the overall performance of the composite material was maximized by PDA by enhancing the interaction between ATH and the matrix. Compared with RPUF and RPUF/ATH, the compressive strength of RPUF/ATH@PDA increased by 3.4% and 10.0%, respectively, and the ultimate flexural strength surged by 26.5% and 30.3%. Compared with RPUF and RPUF/ATH, the addition of ATH@PDA reduced the peak heat release rate of RPUF composites by 39.9% and 24.9%, and the total heat release by 33.6% and 31.9%. In addition, PDA promoted the conversion of RPUF to a dense and highly graphitized carbon residue during combustion and reduced the flammable and harmful gases in the combustion gas. It played a crucial role in the condensed and gas phases, which minimized the fire hazard of RPUF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An extremely efficient lubrication system is achieved in synovial joints by means of bio-lubricants and sophisticated nanostructured surfaces that work together. Molecular bottlebrush structures play crucial roles for this superior tribosystem. For example, lubricin is an important bio-lubricant, and aggrecan associated with hyaluronan is important for the mechanical response of cartilage. Inspired by nature, synthetic bottlebrush polymers have been developed and excellent aqueous boundary lubrication has been achieved. In this review, we summarize recent experimental investigations of the interfacial lubrication properties of surfaces coated with bottlebrush bio-lubricants and bioinspired bottlebrush polymers. We also discuss recent advances in understanding intermolecular synergy in aqueous lubrication including natural and synthetic polymers. Finally, opportunities and challenges in developing efficient aqueous boundary lubrication systems are outlined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Xanthohumol (XAN), a natural isoflavone from Humulus lupulus L. possesses biological activities on relieving oxidative stress and osteoporosis (OP). This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidative and osteoprotective effect of XAN on Aβ-injured osteoblasts, and explore its underlying mechanism. Methods Osteoblasts were pretreated with XAN followed by stimulation with Aβ1–42. Cell proliferation, ALP activity, bone mineralization and bone formation index were measured. Apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were analysed with flow cytometer. PI3K inhibitor LY294002 or siRNA-Nrf2 was added and transfected in osteoblasts, to further confirm whether the pathway participated in the regulation of XAN-induced cytoprotection. Key findings XAN markedly improved the proliferation, differentiation and mineralization of Aβ-injured osteoblasts. Additionally, XAN reduced cell apoptosis rate and ROS level, and increased the expression of p-AKT, Nrf2, NQO1, HO-1 and SOD-2. More importantly, LY294002 or siNrf2 abolished the beneficial effect of XAN on osteoblasts activity and decreased the PI3K expression and inhibited its downstream proteins, indicating XAN activated PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 pathway in Aβ-injured osteoblasts. Conclusion It was the first time to reveal the antioxidative and osteoprotective effect of XAN through regulating PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 pathway in Aβ - injured osteoblasts, which provides reference for the clinical application of XAN in the prevention and treatment of OP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a micro-current spreading layer (mCSL)-confined micro-LED is proposed and fabricated. The mCSL is used to restrict the current channel in the 300 μm mesa of the micro-LED. Simulation results show that the internal quantum efficiency (IQE) of the mCSL-confined micro-LED is lower at low current densities, while it is higher at high current densities, compared with conventional micro-LED without mCSL. The current density distribution and the recombination rate are analyzed to prove the better restriction of the current channel at higher current density, resulting in enhanced efficiency at higher current density. With the decrease of the size of the mCSL, the efficiency of the mCSL-confined micro-LED decreases at low current densities, but increases at high current densities. This work provides a theoretical foundation for the structure design of LEDs in the future to optimize the efficiency of micro-LEDs in different applications such as display and communication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Ecosystem multifunctionality was higher in rhizosphere soils than in bulk soils. • Ecosystem multifunctionality was mainly determined by environmental factors. • C cycling and N cycling varied among microhabitat and macrohabitat types. The importance of plant and soil microbial diversity in sustaining ecological functions has attracted considerable attention. However, little is known about how these factors jointly affect the ability of an ecosystem to provide multiple ecological functions simultaneously (i.e., ecosystem multifunctionality [EMF]) in natural environments, especially in wetlands. Here, we collected rhizosphere soils, bulk soils, and sediments (microhabitats) from riverine, lacustrine, and palustrine wetland sites (macrohabitats) across the remote Tibetan Plateau. Plant diversity (taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional) and soil bacterial diversity (taxonomic and phylogenetic) were determined. We also calculated EMF using 20 variables related to soil carbon cycling, nitrogen cycling, and plant productivity. The results showed that EMF was significantly higher in rhizosphere soils than in bulk soils, but no significant differences were detected among the macrohabitat types. A significant relationship between EMF and bacterial diversity was detected only in rhizosphere soils, and a positive relationship between EMF and plant diversity was found in riverine and lacustrine wetlands. Environmental factors (climate and edaphic properties), bacterial diversity, and plant diversity together explained 63.48% of the EMF variation. Path modeling revealed that the effects of macrohabitat and microhabitat on EMF were mediated mainly through edaphic properties and bacterial diversity, respectively. These results significantly advance our understanding of the patterns and drivers of EMF in wetlands and are also critical for predicting changes in wetland functions in response to biodiversity loss and anthropogenic activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immunotherapy represented by programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)/programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) monoclonal antibodies has led tumor treatment into a new era. However, the low overall response rate and high incidence of drug resistance largely damage the clinical benefits of existing immune checkpoint therapies. Recent studies correlate the response to PD-1/PD-L1 blockade with PD-L1 expression levels in tumor cells. Hence, identifying molecular targets and pathways controlling PD-L1 protein expression and stability in tumor cells is a major priority. In this study, we performed a Stress and Proteostasis CRISPR interference screening to identify PD-L1 positive modulators. Here, we identified TRAF6 as a critical regulator of PD-L1 in melanoma cells. As a non-conventional E3 ubiquitin ligase, TRAF6 is inclined to catalyze the synthesis and linkage of lysine-63 (K63) ubiquitin which is related to the stabilization of substrate proteins. Our results showed that suppression of TRAF6 expression down-regulates PD-L1 expression on the membrane surface of melanoma cells. We then used in vitro and in vivo assays to investigate the biological function and mechanism of TRAF6 and its downstream YAP1/TFCP2 signaling in melanoma. TRAF6 stabilizes YAP1 by K63 poly-ubiquitination modification, subsequently promoting the formation of YAP1/TFCP2 transcriptional complex and PD-L1 transcription. Inhibition of TRAF6 by Bortezomib enhanced cytolytic activity of CD8+ T cells by reduction of endogenous PD-L1. Notably, Bortezomib enhances anti-tumor immunity to an extent comparable to anti-PD-1 therapies with no obvious toxicity. Our findings reveal the potential of inhibiting TRAF6 to stimulate internal anti-tumor immunological effect for TRAF6-PD-L1 overexpressing cancers. • TRAF6 was screened out as a positive modulator of PD-L1 in melanoma cells. • TRAF6 stabilized YAP1 with K63 poly-ubiquitin chains at a novel YAP1K497 site. • TRAF6 promoted nucleus shuttle of YAP1 and increased PD-L1 transcription with YAP1/TFCP2 complex. • TFCP2 was identified as a novel transcriptional factor of PD-L1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 4.2 ka event is an important climatic event of the Holocene that is expected to considerably influence the development of human civilizations. However, the forcing mechanism of the 4.2 ka event remains unclear, with current evidence being divided between high-latitude and low-latitude forcings. The Asian climate system contains strong summer and winter monsoon circulations, and thus the region is ideal for studying high- and low-latitude climate forcings on 4.2 ka event. In this study, we present a high-resolution pollen record of the past 5000 years from Wudalianchi Crater Lake in northeastern China in the East Asian monsoon region. An evident decrease in broadleaf trees occurred during the 4.2 ka event, suggesting a decrease in summer monsoon rainfall. Well-dated high-resolution pollen, stalagmite δ18O, and winter monsoon records were collected to study the possible transportation of high- and low-latitude signals. Most of the pollen records showed significant changes during the 4.2 ka event, while no apparent change was found in winter monsoon records. Meanwhile, more obvious changes in stalagmite δ18O records were observed in lower- rather than the higher-latitude regions around 4.2 ka. Our results suggest that the signal of the 4.2 ka event might be transported by low-latitude processes, thus corresponding to a low-latitude forcing. • We reconstructed a 5000-yr high-resolution pollen record in northeastern China. • Percentages of broadleaf tree pollen decreased evidently during the 4.2 ka event. • No apparent change in winter monsoon records during the 4.2 ka event. • Changing amplitude in stalagmite δ18O records was greater at lower latitudes. • Our results support the lower latitude origins of the 4.2 ka event. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pedestrian Dead Reckoning (PDR) is a good alternative positioning method in Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS)-challenged environments. It has the advantage in terms of infrastructure-independent, while the disadvantage is that, the estimated errors grow rapidly with time. The Digital Terrestrial Multimedia Broadcasting (DTMB) signals have strong transmission power, which contributes to better urban propagation and building penetration than GNSS signals. So, in this paper, an enhanced PDR algorithm aided with DTMB signals is proposed. In the study, a complete software-defined radio receiver is developed to estimate the Doppler speed and range information from DTMB signals. To reduce the accumulated errors of the PDR, the Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) algorithm is carried out to fuse the information of Doppler speed and ranging from the DTMB signals, as well as the information of walking speed and heading from the PDR. The results of the field tests showed that the 95% positioning error of the proposed algorithm is less than 3.94 m, while the PDR only is less than 9.19 m, which suggests the effectiveness of the proposed method to provide continuous positioning by fusing DTMB signals with PDR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complex metal contaminated sites are generally more harmful than single metal contaminated sites. Therefore, this study combined experiment and mathematical model to investigate the migration of Pb(II), Ni(II) and Cd(II) in single and multi-metal systems. The data from batch and column experiments were fitted well by Langmuir and nonequilibrium convection-dispersion equation. In the single metal system, the adsorption capacity of metals in soil was Pb> >Cd>Ni. In multi-metal systems, Pb(II), Ni(II) and Cd(II) retention in column decreased by 42.8%, 56.2% and 92.8% respectively due to the competition effect. The competitive effect enhanced the migration of three metals in the column. Ni(II) and Cd(II) showed irregular breakthrough curves, called "overshooting", under the effect of Pb(II). The phenomenon of overshooting made the outlet concentration C of the column greater than the inlet concentration C 0 (C / C 0 >1), leading to serious potential risks to groundwater. In addition, results from speciation of metals showed that the competition effect and overshooting mainly occurred in exchangeable and carbonate fractions. Understanding the transport of metals in complex contaminated sites is important for risk assessment. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the matrix multiplication plays a vital role in computational linear algebra, there are few efficient solutions for matrix multiplication of the near-sparse matrices. The Sparse Approximate Matrix Multiply (SpAMM) is one of the algorithms to fill the performance gap neglected by traditional optimizations for dense/sparse matrix multiplication. However, existing SpAMM algorithms fail to exploit the performance potential of GPUs for acceleration. In this paper, we present cuSpAMM, the first parallel SpAMM algorithm optimized for multiple GPUs. Several performance optimizations have been proposed, including algorithm redesign to adapt to the thread parallelism, blocking strategies for memory access optimization, and the acceleration with the tensor core. In addition, we scale cuSpAMM to run on multiple GPUs with an effective load balance scheme. We evaluate cuSpAMM on both synthesized and real-world datasets on multiple GPUs. The experiment results show that cuSpAMM achieves significant performance speedup compared to vendor optimized cuBLAS and cuSPARSE libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In clinical trials, placebo response is considered a beneficial effect arising from multiple factors, including the patient's expectations for the treatment. Its presence makes the classical parallel study design suboptimal and can bias the inference. The sequential parallel comparison design (SPCD), a two‐stage design where the first stage is a classical parallel study design, followed by another parallel design among placebo subjects from the first stage, was proposed to address the shortcomings of the classical design. In SPCD, in lieu of treatment effect, a weighted average of the mean treatment difference in Stage I among all randomized subjects and the mean treatment difference in Stage II among placebo non‐responders was proposed as the efficacy measure. However, by linking two possibly different populations, this weighted average lacks interpretability, and the choice of weight remains controversial. In this work, under the principal stratification framework, we propose a causal estimand for the treatment effect under each of three clinically important principal strata: Always Responders, Never Responders, and Drug‐only Responders. To make the stratum treatment effect identifiable, we introduce a set of assumptions and two sensitivity parameters. By further considering the strata as latent characteristics, the sensitivity parameters can be estimated. An extensive simulation study is conducted to evaluate the operating characteristics of the proposed method. Finally, we apply our method on the ADAPT‐A study data to assess the benefit of low‐dose aripiprazole adjunctive to antidepressant therapy treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]