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Assessing heterogeneity between studies is a critical step in determining whether studies can be combined and whether the synthesized results are reliable. The I 2 statistic has been a popular measure for quantifying heterogeneity, but its usage has been challenged from various perspectives in recent years. In particular, it should not be considered an absolute measure of heterogeneity, and it could be subject to large uncertainties. As such, when using I 2 to interpret the extent of heterogeneity, it is essential to account for its interval estimate. Various point and interval estimators exist for I 2 . This article summarizes these estimators. In addition, we performed a simulation study under different scenarios to investigate preferable point and interval estimates of I 2 . We found that the Sidik–Jonkman method gave precise point estimates for I 2 when the between-study variance was large, while in other cases, the DerSimonian–Laird method was suggested to estimate I 2 . When the effect measure was the mean difference or the standardized mean difference, the Q -profile method, the Biggerstaff–Jackson method, or the Jackson method was suggested to calculate the interval estimate for I 2 due to reasonable interval length and more reliable coverage probabilities than various alternatives. For the same reason, the Kulinskaya–Dollinger method was recommended to calculate the interval estimate for I 2 when the effect measure was the log odds ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a serious ocular complication that can pose a serious risk to a patient's vision and overall health. Currently, the automatic grading of DR is mainly using deep learning techniques. However, the lesion information in DR images is complex, variable in shape and size, and randomly distributed in the images, which leads to some shortcomings of the current research methods, i.e., it is difficult to effectively extract the information of these various features, and it is difficult to establish the connection between the lesion information in different regions. To address these shortcomings, we design a multi-scale dynamic fusion (MSDF) module and combine it with graph convolution operations to propose a multi-scale dynamic graph convolutional network (MDGNet) in this paper. MDGNet firstly uses convolution kernels with different sizes to extract features with different shapes and sizes in the lesion regions, and then automatically learns the corresponding weights for feature fusion according to the contribution of different features to model grading. Finally, the graph convolution operation is used to link the lesion features in different regions. As a result, our proposed method can effectively combine local and global features, which is beneficial for the correct DR grading. We evaluate the effectiveness of method on two publicly available datasets, namely APTOS and DDR. Extensive experiments demonstrate that our proposed MDGNet achieves the best grading results on APTOS and DDR, and is more accurate and diverse for the extraction of lesion information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common complication of pregnancy, which has significant adverse effects on both the mother and fetus. The incidence of GDM is increasing globally, and early diagnosis is critical for timely treatment and reducing the risk of poor pregnancy outcomes. GDM is usually diagnosed and detected after 24 weeks of gestation, while complications due to GDM can occur much earlier. Copy number variations (CNVs) can be a possible biomarker for GDM diagnosis and screening in the early gestation stage. In this study, we proposed a machine-learning method to screen GDM in the early stage of gestation using cell-free DNA (cfDNA) sequencing data from maternal plasma. Five thousand and eighty-five patients from north regions of Mainland China, including 1942 GDM, were recruited. A non-overlapping sliding window method was applied for CNV coverage screening on low-coverage (~0.2×) sequencing data. The CNV coverage was fed to a convolutional neural network with attention architecture for the binary classification. The model achieved a classification accuracy of 88.14%, precision of 84.07%, recall of 93.04%, F1-score of 88.33% and AUC of 96.49%. The model identified 2190 genes associated with GDM, including DEFA1, DEFA3 and DEFB1. The enriched gene ontology (GO) terms and KEGG pathways showed that many identified genes are associated with diabetes-related pathways. Our study demonstrates the feasibility of using cfDNA sequencing data and machine-learning methods for early diagnosis of GDM, which may aid in early intervention and prevention of adverse pregnancy outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study evaluated the effect of offset on the precision of three-dimensional (3D)-printed splints, proposing to optimize the splint design to compensate for systematic errors. Materials and methods: 14 resin model sets were scanned and offset as a whole by given distances (0.05, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20, 0.25, 0.30, 0.35, and 0.40 mm). Intermediate splints (ISs) and final splints (FSs) were generated from the non-offset and offset models and grouped correspondingly, named as splint type-offset value, IS-0.05, for instance. Dentitions occluded with the splint were scanned. Translational and rotational deviations of the lower dentition relative to the upper dentition were 3D measured. Results: Deviations of ISs and FSs were more evident in the vertical and pitch dimensions, and were mostly acceptable in other dimensions. ISs with offset ≥ 0.05 mm showed vertical deviations significantly below 1 mm (P < 0.05) while ISs with 0.10- to 0.30-mm offsets had pitch rotations significantly lower than 1° (P < 0.05). The Pitch of IS-0.35 was significantly larger than ISs with 0.15- to 0.30-mm offsets (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, FSs fit better as the offset increased and FSs with offsets ≥ 0.15 mm all had deviations significantly lower than 1 mm (for translation) or 1° (for rotation) (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Offset affects the precision of 3D-printed splints. Moderate offset values of 0.10 to 0.30 mm are recommendable for ISs. Offset values ≥ 0.15 mm are recommended for FSs in cases with stable final occlusion. Clinical relevance: This study found the optimal offset ranges for 3D-printed ISs and FSs via a standardized protocol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Significant heterogeneity has been observed among different ecosystem services (ES). Understanding the trade-offs and synergies among ES and delineating ecological functional zones is crucial for formulating regional management policies that improve human well-being and sustainably develop and maintain ecosystems. In this study, we used the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Trade-offs (InVEST) and Carnegie–Ames–Stanford Approach (CASA) models to evaluate the spatial distribution patterns of nine ES (food supply, raw material supply, water resource supply, water connotation, climate regulation, soil conservation, water purification, habitat quality, and entertainment tourism) in the Qilian Mountains from 2000 to 2018. We also investigated the trade-offs and synergistic relationships among ES through Spearman correlation analysis, identified ES hotspots through exploratory spatial data analysis, and identified ES bundles (ESB) using K-means clustering. Our results revealed that water purification and habitat quality remained relatively stable, while food supply, raw material supply, water resource supply, water conservation, climate regulation, soil conservation, and entertainment tourism increased by 1038.83 Yuan·ha−1, 448.21 Yuan·ha−1, 55.45 mm, 7.80 mm, 0.60 tc·ha−1, 40.01 t·ha−1 and 4.82, respectively. High-value areas for water resource supply were mainly concentrated in the high-altitude mountainous area, whereas high-value areas for soil conservation were found in the western and eastern parts of the study area. The low-value areas of water purification were primarily located in the east, while the remaining six services were highly distributed in the east and were less common in the west. Correlation analysis showed that water resource supply, water conservation, and soil conservation exhibited a synergistic relationship in the Qilian Mountains. Moreover, food supply, raw material supply, climate regulation, habitat quality, and entertainment tourism showed synergistic relationships. However, there were trade-offs between food supply and water purification as well as water resource supply, and habitat quality showed a tradeoff with water resource supply, water conservation, and soil conservation. We identified four ESB. The food supply bundle consisted mainly of farmland ecosystems, while the windbreak and sand fixation and ecological coordination bundles were dominant in the Qilian Mountains. Notably, the area of the water conservation bundle increased significantly. Our comprehensive findings on ES and ESB can provide a theoretical foundation for the formulation of ecological management policies and the sustainable development of ecosystems in the Qilian Mountains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the past 30 years, in vitro transcription (IVT) technology has been extensively used for RNA production or for basic transcriptional mechanism research. However, methods for mRNA quantification still need to be improved. In this study, we designed a RT-IVT method using binary fluorescence quencher (BFQ) probes and the PBCV-1 DNA ligase to quantify mRNA production in real-time by fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) and RNA-splinted DNA ligation. Compared with existing methods, the RT-IVT method is inexpensive and non-radioactive, and can detect mRNA production in unpurified systems in real-time and shows high sensitivity and selectivity. The activity of T7 RNA polymerase and Escherichia coli RNA polymerase holoenzyme was then characterized with this method. We then multiplexed the real-time mRNA quantification for three T7 promoters on a RT-PCR thermocycler by using BFQ probes with different colored fluorophores that were specific for each target. Ultimately, we created an inexpensive multiplexed method to quantify mRNA production in real-time, and future research could use these methods to measure the affinity of transcriptional repressors to their target DNA sequence. A new method (RT-IVT) leverages fluorescence quenchers & DNA ligase in FRET and RNA-splinted DNA ligation methods to allow inexpensive, nonradioactive and selective mRNA production quantification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a scatterer‐array‐based decorrelation method for improving the multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) performance is proposed for a real application of base station (BS) operating at 780 MHz with a 20‐MHz communication bandwidth. The antenna correlation is reduced by loading a scatterer array designed to increase the MIMO array's effective inter‐element spacing. As a result, the diversity measure is improved, which in turn benefits the MIMO capacity. This method is demonstrated first in simulation to check its performance, which shows about 4% and 20% improvements in MIMO capacity over 20‐MHz communication bandwidth in single‐cell and multi‐cell scenarios, respectively. Then it is applied to a real BS in a realistic urban micro scenario for experimental verification, showing a noticeable throughput improvement without degrading the power coverage of the BS. Note that this is the first time that the scatterer‐array‐based decorrelation technique has been applied to increase the MIMO throughput of a real BS in a real‐life scenario, which thoroughly demonstrates the promising application potential of this technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterocyclic aromatic amine molecularly imprinted polymer nanospheres with surface-bound dithioester groups (haa-MIP) were firstly synthesized via reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) precipitation polymerization. Then, a series of core-shell structural heterocyclic aromatic amine molecularly imprinted polymer nanospheres with hydrophilic shells (MIP-HSs) were subsequently prepared by grafting the hydrophilic shells on the surface of haa-MIP via on-particle RAFT polymerization of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), itaconic acid (IA), and diethylaminoethyl methacrylate (DEAEMA). The haa-MIP nanospheres showed high affinity and specific recognition toward harmine and its structural analogs in organic solution of acetonitrile, but lost the specific binding ability in aqueous solution. However, after the grafting of the hydrophilic shells on the haa-MIP particles, the surface hydrophilicity and water dispersion stability of the polymer particles of MIP-HSs greatly improved. The binding of harmine by MIP-HSs with hydrophilic shells in aqueous solutions is about two times higher than that of NIP-HSs, showing an efficient molecular recognition of heterocyclic aromatic amines in aqueous solution. The effect of hydrophilic shell structure on the molecular recognition property of MIP-HSs was further compared. MIP-PIA with carboxyl groups containing hydrophilic shells showed the highest selective molecular recognition ability to heterocyclic aromatic amines in aqueous solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evolutionary search has been widely implemented for the adjustment of controllers’ parameters. Nevertheless, the structure of controllers, which has a more important role in control systems, has been seldom studied. To this end, an evolutionary design method of controllers is proposed to optimize both structures and parameters simultaneously in this article. A controller is made up of a combination of some basic controller components and relevant parameters. The design of controllers can be transformed into an optimization problem involving the structure (represented by discrete vectors) and parameters (represented by real numbers). A generalized structure encoding/decoding scheme is developed. Guided by the performance indicators, intelligent algorithms for both combinatorial and numerical optimization are employed to iteratively and cooperatively evolve the controller structure and parameters, respectively. In order to effectively reduce some redundant or infeasible solutions, a set of generation rules for the controller structure are put forward, which also ensures the feasibility of the structure. Furthermore, this method is applied to a magnetic levitation ball system with nonlinear dynamics and external disturbance. Both simulation and experiment results demonstrate the effectiveness and practicability of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porous carbohydrate materials such as tobacco shreds readily absorb moisture and become damp during processing, storage, and consumption (smoking). Traditional humectants have the ability of moisture retention but moisture-proofing is poor. Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua polysaccharide (PCP 85−1−1) was separated by fractional precipitation and was purified by anion exchange and gel permeation chromatography. The average molecular weight (Mw) of PCP 85−1−1 was 2.88 × 103 Da. The monosaccharide composition implied that PCP 85−1−1 consisted of fucose, glucose, and fructose, and the molar ratio was 22.73:33.63:43.65. When 2% PCP 85−1−1 was added to tobacco shreds, the ability of moisture retention and moisture-proofing were significantly enhanced. The moisture retention index (MRI) and moisture-proofing index (MPI) increased from 1.95 and 1.67 to 2.11 and 2.14, respectively. Additionally, the effects of PCP 85−1−1 on the aroma and taste of tobacco shreds were evaluated by electronic tongue and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). These results indicated that PCP 85−1−1 had the characteristics of preventing water absorption under high relative humidity and moisturizing under dry conditions. The problem that traditional humectants are poorly moisture-proof was solved. PCP 85−1−1 can be utilized as a natural humectant on porous carbohydrates, which provides a reference for its development and utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waterborne coating materials were prepared by blending β-D-Glucose pentaacetate(GPA) and 5 kinds of viscous materials. The viscous material with the best effect was selected according to the viscosity, solid content and laboratory evaluation results, and the blending mass ratio was optimized. After that, the application evaluation of the best modified GPA waterborne coating material for cigarette was carried out. The results showed that PEG600 was the best viscous material and the material with m(GPA): m(PEG600)=1:1 had the best laboratory comprehensive evaluation effect. And the use of coating material resulted in the increase of coating paper weight, filter weight and pressure drop, but the cigarette weight and draw resistance increased only a slight, while the changes of other parameters were very little. Besides, the total particulate matters and tar in the mainstream smoke of the coated cigarette were slightly lower than those of the uncoated cigarette, meanwhile, the nicotine release, moisture and puff number in the mainstream smoke of the coated cigarette were the same as those of the uncoated cigarette. Comparing with the uncoated cigarette, the phenol in the mainstream cigarette smoke of the coated cigarette reduced by 47.1%, and the other six harmful components all have a certain degree of reduction which was not large. Moreover, the sensory quality of the coated cigarette and the uncoated cigarette had no significant difference too. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the current mainstream method for electricity theft detection, the data-driven detection model's performance noticeably deteriorates in new regions due to variances in electricity consumption characteristics. Moreover, owing to the lack of theft labels in new regions without on-site inspections, training a high-accuracy theft detection model becomes challenging. To address these issues, this study proposes a novel two-stage generalizable approach for electricity theft detection in new regions. In this approach, Stage 1 presents an adaptation method based on Deep Subdomain Adaptation Network (DSAN). This stage precisely aligns electricity consumption features between different regions. It transfers the characteristics of electricity consumption curves from the established region to the unlabeled new region, successfully adapting the model to the latter. Next, in Stage 2, an enhancement method based on Core-Set Active Learning (CSAL) is proposed to select the representative electricity consumption samples in the new region for fine-tuning. At the early stage of on-site inspections, Stage 2 rapidly and stably enhances the model's performance within limited costs, providing reliable guidance for regular on-site inspections. Stage 1 innovatively transfers a lot of learned features for the theft detection model, and Stage 2 further learns new regions' representative samples combined with inspections for the first time. They complement each other in terms of rich information on electricity consumption behaviors and new regions' electricity consumption characteristics. Finally, experiments on real-world datasets in China demonstrate the superiority of our proposed approach. The results show its high detection performance and rapid enhancement in unlabeled new regions, providing strong support for anti-electricity theft work. • A novel two-stage generalizable approach for electricity theft detection in new regions is proposed. • A precise adaptation method for electricity theft detection in unlabeled new regions is presented. • A rapid enhancement method during the early stage of on-site inspections in new regions is provided. • The effectiveness and superiority are verified on two real-world electricity datasets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Stability of biochar to Cd, Zn and Pb in soil enhanced after KMnO 4 modification. • Biotoxicity of metals was reduced by 28%-95% at 10% KMnO 4 -modified biochar dose. • Biochar was oxidized and C-O stretching change was prior during freeze–thaw cycles. • Ion exchange and precipitation were mechanisms for MBC to stabilize Cd, Zn and Pb. • KMnO 4 -modified biochar resisted the adverse effects of freeze–thaw cycles in soil. Biochar has been widely used in soil remediation because of its porosity and impressive efficiency. Many studies have demonstrated the good affinity of biochar for heavy metals (HMs), but efficient modification methods to increase the stability of multiple HMs are lacking. Moreover, few studies focus on biochar's potential ability to ageing resistance and changes in its physicochemical properties during freeze–thaw (F/T) cycles. Here, KMnO 4 -modification biochar (MBC) was prepared and the immobilization and anti-freeze performance of MBC on Cd, Zn and Pb in soil were investigated. The addition of 10 % MBC decreased concentrations of toxicity characteristic leaching procedure (TCLP) by 66.80 %, 25.39 % and 99.68 % for Cd, Zn and Pb, respectively, after 28 days, accompanied by a significant decrease in the phytoavailability and bioaccessibility of HMs in soil. Soil fertility was also improved by MBC application. Furthermore, frequent F/T cycles obviously induced the fragmentation of soil particles and enhanced the activity of HMs. Conversely, MBC particles became finer, accompanied by further oxidation and higher alkalinity but degraded pore structures during F/T cycles. The oxidation of lignocellulose and changes in C-O stretching were greatest among all functional groups in biochar. Therefore, MBC could suppress the migration of HMs through precipitation, cohesion of soil particles, and stronger complexation by oxygen-containing functional groups. Moreover, fractions of HMs were also transferred from exchangeable to potentially labile or nonlabile species. Overall, MBC displayed advantages in the stabilization of HMs and showed higher resistance to F/T cycles and promise for long-term remediation of HM-contaminated soils in cold regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The branched cationic tetrameric surfactant (4C14tetraQ) that the length of four hydrocarbon chains is 14 was synthesized, and the molecular structure has been confirmed via FT-IR, 1H NMR and elemental analysis. The inhibition behavior for N80 carbon steel in hydrochloric acid solution was studied with weight loss measurements at 25–65°C while electrochemical impedance and polarization were carried out at 25°C. The results of weight loss measurements show that the synthesized surfactant has good inhibitive performance, and its inhibition efficiency was increased with the increment of both temperature and concentration. Polarization curves indicate that the cationic tetrameric surfactant may serve as a mixed-type inhibitor. In addition, it is found that the adsorption behavior of 4C14tetraQ follows Langmuir adsorption isotherm, and the adsorption process is an endothermic process couple with the increase in entropy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Systematic reviews and meta‐analyses are principal tools to synthesize evidence from multiple independent sources in many research fields. The assessment of heterogeneity among collected studies is a critical step when performing a meta‐analysis, given its influence on model selection and conclusions about treatment effects. A common‐effect (CE) model is conventionally used when the studies are deemed homogeneous, while a random‐effects (RE) model is used for heterogeneous studies. However, both models have limitations. For example, the CE model produces excessively conservative confidence intervals with low coverage probabilities when the collected studies have heterogeneous treatment effects. The RE model, on the other hand, assigns higher weights to small studies compared to the CE model. In the presence of small‐study effects or publication bias, the over‐weighted small studies from a RE model can lead to substantially biased overall treatment effect estimates. In addition, outlying studies may exaggerate between‐study heterogeneity. This article introduces penalization methods as a compromise between the CE and RE models. The proposed methods are motivated by the penalized likelihood approach, which is widely used in the current literature to control model complexity and reduce variances of parameter estimates. We compare the existing and proposed methods with simulated data and several case studies to illustrate the benefits of the penalization methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep learning is a commonly employed technique for fault diagnosis; however, its effectiveness is contingent upon the presence of balanced data. In real-world industrial settings, the collected fault data from mechanical equipment often lacks balance with normal data, resulting in overfitting, reduced generalization, and diminished accuracy of the deep learning approach. Consequently, this study introduces a novel diagnostic framework, namely Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) based on Advantage Actor–Critic (A2C), which autonomously extracts profound and pivotal features from data samples, enabling precise decision-making. In this study, we employ the Synthetic Minority Over-sampling Technique (SMOTE) to create a reinforcement learning environment that facilitates balanced data support for model training. Additionally, we utilize the DenseNet network, enhanced by the multi-scale mixed attention mechanism module, as both the policy and value network for the A2C agent. This allows for the extraction of crucial features while retaining important information. Furthermore, multiple A2C agents are executed in parallel to carry out diagnostic tasks, thereby expediting convergence and ensuring stability. The proposed approach is then evaluated and analyzed using two bearing datasets, and its performance is compared to that of alternative methods. The experimental findings demonstrate that the proposed framework exhibits superior diagnostic accuracy and overall performance. • We propose a rolling bearing diagnosis method based on deep reinforcement learning. • Enhancing feature extraction through multiscale hybrid attention mechanisms. • Co-training through multiple agents. • In all tests, the proposed model performs well in all respects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel preheated miniature burner with a flame holder and porous medium is proposed. • Effect of the porous medium height on the lean premixed flame feature is studied. • Some interesting flame behaviors are found by the means of experiment. • Some new features of the combustor wall thermal performance are analyzed in detail. • A higher porous medium can be adopted when the operating range is sufficiently wide. To improve the performance of the lean premixed combustion LPC that can achieve low emission of CO and NO x with high combustion efficiency, a novel preheated miniature combustor with a flame holder and porous medium is proposed here. The lean premixed combustion behaviors of methane-air are experimentally investigated in this combustor, and the corresponding thermal performances of the combustor wall are also revealed. The flashback, combustion within the porous medium, combustion next to the porous medium, and flame extinction are observed in sequence with a decreasing equivalence ratio. For the flame within the porous medium, it firmly resides within the porous medium. Therefore, in the practical application, a higher porous medium can be employed if the corresponding operating range of the LPC is sufficient. This study expands our insights into the lean premixed combustion features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A method of improving the diversity and capacity of multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) systems in nonisotropic multipath environments by loading a scatterer array is proposed. The difference between array diversity and super-resolution imaging is discussed first. The phase differences caused by the “effective space” between adjacent antenna elements are the critical factors of diversity enhancement. The scatterer array, which is made of cross-structure periodically, is placed on top of the antenna array to adjust the phase center of the radiation pattern of each antenna port. By increasing the “equivalent size” of the antenna array, the correlation of part of the adjacent ports in the antenna array is decreased; thus, the array diversity is improved. Through a set of comparative examples, the effectiveness of the scatterer array is clearly demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different pyrolysis methods, parameters and feedstocks result in biochars with different properties, structures and removal capacities for heavy metals. However, the role of each property on adsorption capacity and corresponding causal relationships remain unclear. Here, we investigated various physicochemical properties of biochar produced via three different methods and two different feedstocks to clarify influences of biomass sources and pyrolysis processes on biochar properties and its heavy metal adsorption performance. Experimental results showed biochars were more aromatic and contained more functional groups after hydrothermal carbonization, while they had developed pores and higher surface areas produced by anaerobic pyrolysis. The inclusion of oxygen resulted in more complete carbonization and higher CEC biochar. Different biochar properties resulted in different adsorption capacities. Biochar produced by aerobic calcination showed higher adsorption efficiency for Cu and Pb. Correlation analysis proved that pH, cation exchange capacity and degree of carbonization positively affected adsorption, while organic matter content and aromaticity were unfavorable for adsorption. Microstructure and components determined biochar macroscopic properties and ultimate adsorption efficiency for metal ions. This study identifies the degree of correlation and pathways of each property on adsorption, which provides guidance for targeted modification of biochar to enhance its performance in heavy metal removal. [Display omitted] • Biochar pH, CEC, DOC and functional groups under different methods were compared. • Chemical and monolayer adsorption was dominant during adsorbing heavy metals. • Dissolved organic carbon participated but was not conductive to the adsorption. • Biochar pH, EC and surface area most influenced adsorption capacities of Cu and Pb. • Causal relationships of parameters followed a microstructure to macro pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the support of wireless sensor networks expands to various application scenarios, the communication environments and the performance requirements of different application scenarios vary a lot. To cope with different communication environments and performance requirements, both data transmission ability and medium access ability are equivalently important. In this article, a joint analytical model is proposed to fully and precisely estimate networks' communication performance, energy efficiency, and scalability. In the proposed model, both the physical layer's and medium access control layer's key parameters are taken into consideration. By comparing with OPNET-based simulation model, the rationality of the proposed analytical model is first validated under a wide range of network scenarios. Then, a series of simulations under general network scenarios and metering network scenarios are conducted. With these simulations, the performance of adjusting both layers' parameters in improving communication performance and energy efficiency was proved superior to single-layer's parameter optimizations. Finally, by comparing the available range of different key parameters' optimal value under different network scenarios, the maximum backoff numbers and the minimum backoff exponent are considered to be the most effective parameters for metering network optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Problem: The mechanism(s) by which antinuclear antibodies (ANA) induce implantation failure are not clear, and little information regarding the function of autoantibodies in reproductive tissues is available. Methods of Study: A total of 380 patients who underwent in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF‐ET) were divided into control, serum positive, and follicular fluid (FF) positive groups based on the results of indirect immunofluorescence assay for ANA in the serum and FF. Immunofluorescence assay was performed to evaluate the existence of ANA in granular cells and endometrial tissues. Presence in FF of soluble apoptotic markers, including Bcl‐2, Caspase‐3, cleaved PARP, Cytochrome C, GAPDH, and p53, was assessed using magnetic bead based assays. Results: The patients in the FF positive group had the lowest numbers of retrieved oocytes, fertilizations, and high‐quality embryos. The fertilization rate, and the proportion of two pronuclear (2PN) embryos in patients in the FF positive group were significantly lower than those in the other two groups. The FF positive group also had the lowest clinical pregnancy rate, and the highest early miscarriage rate. Granulosa cells and endometrial tissues in patients in the FF positive group were ANA positive. High levels of BCL‐2, Caspase‐3, Cytochrome C, GAPDH, and p53 were found in the FF of patients in the FF positive group. Conclusions: Antinuclear antibodies in FF and endometrial tissues may cause imbalanced apoptosis, resulting in poor IVF‐ET treatment outcomes. Local autoimmunity and cell apoptosis in reproductive tissues could be considered new therapeutic targets for improving IVF‐ET treatment efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acoustic velocities and elasticity of high P-T synthesized new (VNbTaTi)C high-entropy carbides (HECs) are reported at high pressure using large volume press (LVP)-based ultrasonic interferometry technique. Using the finite-strain equation approach, the bulk modulus and shear rigidity, and their pressure dependences, are derived from the current experimental data, yielding B 0 = 261.6(2) GPa, G 0 = 191.4(3) GPa, ∂B/∂P = 4.34(18), and ∂G/∂P = 1.83(6). Interestingly, the (VNbTaTi)C HECs is more incompressible than the superhard γ-B (∼213.9 GPa), and almost as incompressible as superhard PcBN (∼254 GPa). Meanwhile, its shear rigidity (∼191.4 GPa) is comparable to the superhard B 6 O-B 4 C composite (G = 202 GPa), and as stiff as the (TiZrNbTa)C (193 ∼ 195 GPa) HECs. More strikingly, the fracture toughness is enhanced up to ∼4.6(3) MPa·m1/2, and the Vickers hardness of (VNbTaTi)C HECs is ∼22.6(2) GPa, which are significantly stronger than other high-entropy carbides. These new findings and results may be very important for its applications in extreme environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) has been confirmed as the most accurate screening test for trisomies 21, 18, and 13. However, reports on NIPT performance in sex chromosome aneuploidies (SCA) based on real clinical data are still limited. Methods: High-throughput massively parallel genomic sequencing (MPS) technique was used to screen for fetal SCAs as part of the research to determine the potential value of NIPT in detecting fetal SCAs in the second trimester. A number of 12,243 consecutive cases from a single center were included in this study. Results: The positive predictive value (PPV) of NIPT in the present study was 57.6%, which was divided and categorized by individual SCAs as follows: 21.4% for Turner syndrome (45,X), 75.0% for Triple X syndrome (47,XXX), 90.9% for Klinefelter syndrome (47,XXY), and 75.0% for XYY syndrome (47,XYY). Conclusion: The NIPT-based SCA test cannot be used as a diagnostic method, and performing an invasive confirmation test on NIPT-based SCA-positive cases is strongly recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a pressurization-insulation and pre-sealing (PIPS) system is designed to increase the cell pressure of the widely used large volume cubic press without sacrificing cell volume. The sample chamber was sandwiched between a pair of tungsten carbide anvils used as the pressurization system. Ultra-high pressure in the cavity was up to about 12 GPa, and the pressure limit had increased by 100% in contrast with that of an anvil-gasket (AG) system. Furthermore, the confining pressure around the sample chamber was supported by grade 304 stainless steel and a zirconia–calcium oxide solid solution before a press load of 2.8 MN was applied as well as by four surrounding anvils. The relationship between the sample chamber pressure and the press load for this system was calibrated at room temperature using transitions in zinc telluride. With samples of similar volumes, the proposed system retained not only stability but also uniform pressure and temperature fields, in contrast with the AG system and the anvil-preformed gasket cubic press pressurization system. The results of more than 20 experiments show that the proposed PIPS system can operate stably under a press load of 4.2 MN, corresponding cell pressure of 10 GPa, and temperature in the cell exceeding 1800 °C by using graphite as a heater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In network-centric warfare, the interconnections among various combat resources enable an advanced operational pattern of cooperative engagement. The operational effectiveness and outcome strongly depends on the reasonable utilization of available sensors and weapons. In this paper, a mathematical model for the coallocation of sensors and weapons is built, taking into account the interdependencies between weapons and sensors, the resource constraints, the capability constraints, as well as the strategy constraints. A marginal-return-based constructive heuristic (MRBCH) is proposed to solve the formulated sensor–weapon–target assignment (S-WTA) problem. MRBCH exploits the marginal return of each sensor–weapon–target triplet and dynamically updates the threat value of all targets. It relies only on simple lookup operations to choose each assignment triplet, thus resulting in very low computational complexity. For performance evaluation, we build a general Monte Carlo simulation-based S-WTA framework. Furthermore, we employ a random sampling method and an extension of the state-of-the-art algorithm Swt_opt as competitors. The computational results show that MRBCH consistently performs very well in solving S-WTA instances of different scales, and it can generate assignment schemes much more efficiently than its competitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the effect of HSP70-hom+2437 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on hypoxia and ischemia condition, we constructed the neuronal hypoxic injury model and the rat middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model to compare the inhibition rate of neurons and detect the infarct volume as well as the expression of related apoptotic proteins in order to explore the possible mechanisms. The neuroblastoma cells SHSY5Y were divided into the OE (transfected with the C allele) group, OEmu (transfected with the T allele) group and negative control (NC, transfected with the empty lentiviral vector CON195) group. Varying degrees of hypoxia were induced by deferoxamine (DFO). The inhibition rate of hypoxic neurons and the expression of related apoptotic proteins were detected in the three genotype groups. While in the rat MCAO model, we built five groups including the sham group, the blank control group (injected with physiological saline), the negative control group (injected with lentivirus and physiological saline), the C allele group and the T allele group (injected with lentivirus overexpressing C and T allele). The MCAO model operation was then underwent in all five groups, the infarct volume by TTC staining and the expression of related apoptotic proteins were detected after 24 h. The results in neuronal hypoxic injury model showed a significant difference in the inhibition rate between the three groups (P < 0.05), and the average inhibition rates for the OEmu, OE and NC groups were 13.2%, 19.2% and 23.3%, respectively. The inhibition rates also differed between lower and higher DFO concentrations (P < 0.05). Compared with the NC group, Bax decreased significantly in the OE and OEmu groups, whereas PI3K and HSPA1L (HSP70-hom) increased. However, the expression of Bax in the OEmu group decreased significantly more than in the OE group, whereas PI3K and HSPA1L levels showed no difference between the two groups. Corresponding with the results above, overexpressing HSP70-hom could reduce the infarct volume of ischemic injury by TTC staining in rat MCAO model and the T allele group also had less infarct volume than C allele group. Compared with the sham group, blank control group and negative control group, Bax decreased significantly in the C and T allele groups, while HSPA1L and p- AKT increased. Furthermore, the expression of Bax in the T allele group decreased significantly more than that in the C allele group, while there were no significant differences in HSPA1L and p-AKT levels between the two groups. Therefore, the overexpression of HSP70-hom+2437 could play a protective role in hypoxic neurons and ischemic brain tissue by upregulating the expression of HSPA1L and PI3K/p-AKT and downregulating the expression of BAX. The neuroprotective effect of the T allele was stronger than that of the C allele, which may be related to the strengthened downregulation of BAX. • The overexpression of the HSP70-hom gene (C or T allele) may take a neuroprotective role in vitro and in vivo. • Our experimental results suggest that the neuroprotective effect of the T allele is stronger than that of the C allele. • The HSP70-hom gene may protect hypoxic neurons by downregulating the expression level of BAX. • The HSP70-hom gene may protect hypoxic neurons by upregulating the expression levels of HSPA1L and PI3K/p-AKT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soils contaminated with potentially toxic elements (PTEs) may face serious environmental problems and pose health risks. In this study, the potential feasibility of industrial and agricultural by-products as low-cost green stabilization materials for copper (Cu), chromium (Cr(VI)) and lead (Pb) polluted soil was investigated. The new green compound material SS ∼ BM ∼ PRP was prepared by ball milling with steel slag (SS), bone meal (BM), and phosphate rock powder (PRP) which had an excellent stabilization effect on contaminated soil. Under 20% SS ∼ BM ∼ PRP addition into the soil, the toxicity characteristic leaching concentrations of Cu, Cr(VI) and Pb were reduced by 87.5%, 80.9% and 99.8%, respectively, and the phytoavailability and bioaccessibility of PTEs were reduced by more than 55% and 23%. The freezing-thawing cycle significantly increased the activity of heavy metals, and the particle size became smaller due to the fragmentation of the soil aggregates while SS ∼ BM ∼ PRP could form calcium silicate hydrate by hydrolysis to cement the soil particles, which inhibited the release of PTEs. Different characterizations indicated that the stabilization mechanisms mainly involved ion exchange, precipitation, adsorption and redox reaction. Overall, the results obtained suggest that the SS ∼ BM ∼ PRP is a green, efficient and durable material for remediation of various heavy metal polluted soils in cold regions and a potential method for co-processing and reusing industrial and agricultural wastes. [Display omitted] • A compound material of SS ∼ BM ∼ PRP (3:1:5) was obtained to stabilize Cu, Cr(VI) and Pb. • TCLP leaching of Cu, Cr(VI) and Pb were reduced by over 80% at 20% SS ∼ BM ∼ PRP dose. • The SS ∼ BM ∼ PRP could resist the adverse effects of freezing-thawing cycles on soil. • Potentially toxic elements transformed from labile to relatively stable form. • Ion exchange, chemical- and co-precipitation, redox and adsorption were involved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A asphalt mixture with 100% utilization of RAP for the surface layer of RAP was prepared using epoxy asphalt. • The difference between the dynamic modulus of FREAM and normal asphalt mixtures was investigated. • The effect of different aging methods on the performance of FREAM was investigated and recommendations were given for its application. With the continuous development of concepts such as "environmental protection" and "sustainable development", it is difficult for the existing technology of asphalt pavement recycling to meet the needs of efficient utilization of Recycled Asphalt Pavement(RAP). The purpose of this research is to explore the application potential of the fully recycled epoxy asphalt mixture(FREAM), which achieves 100% utilization of RAP, in asphalt pavement. By testing the dynamic modulus, the difference between FREAM and conventional asphalt mixture was explored, and the problems that need to be paid attention to when FREAM is used as the surface course were analyzed. Through two aging methods with different mechanisms, the pavement performance of FREAM before and after aging was studied, including high-temperature performance, low-temperature performance, moisture sensitivity, and fatigue performance. Through this research, it is found that the dynamic modulus of FREAM is higher than that of conventional asphalt mixture, and it has better deformation resistance. However, the influence of the difference in modulus between layers needs to be paid attention to when used as a surface course structure. The FREAM has strong resistance to long-term thermal oxidation aging, and the road performance before and after aging meets the application requirements of the surface course. However, the anti-ultraviolet aging ability of the FREAM is weak, and it is not suitable for the surface of the surface course and more suitable for the middle course and lower layer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A double pulsed variable polarity tungsten inert gas (DP-VPTIG) welding process was employed in the welding fabrication of AA2219 plates. The arc profile was imaged by a high-speed camera based vision sensing system, and the weld pool appearance was captured by a CCD-based area-array camera. The microstructure, micro hardness and tensile properties of the welded joints were investigated. Results indicated that the arc length L, diameter D B at arc workspace end and diameter D E at arc electrode end fluctuated periodically with the low-frequency pulse. In low-frequency pulse peak stage, the weld pool width D w increased monotonously, accompanied by a significant depressed deformation on the weld pool surface. In low-frequency pulse base stage, D w continuously decreased with the disappearance of the depressed deformation. Compared with the conventional VPTIG, the weld zone grain structure of DP-VPTIG was significantly refined, and the micro hardness and tensile properties of DP-VPTIG welded joints were improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strength training is widely recommended to improve strength, muscle mass and power. However, the feasibility and potential efficacy of strength training using lighter loads near failure on these outcomes in middle and older-aged adults remains unclear. 23 community-living adults were randomized into two groups: Traditional strength training (ST) (8–12 repetitions) or a lighter load, higher repetitions (LLHR) (20–24 repetitions) group. Participants performed a full-body workout (twice a week) with 8 exercises at a perceived exertion of 7–8 (0–10 scale) for 10 weeks. Post-testing was performed by an assessor blinded to group assignments. An analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to examine between group differences using baseline values as a covariate. The study involved individuals with a mean age of 59 years, of which 61 % were women. The LLHR group demonstrated a high attendance rate of 92 % (9.5 %) and reported leg press exercise RPE of 7.1 (0.53), along with a session feeling scale of 2.0 (1.7). There was a trivial difference in fat free mass (FFM) favoring LLHR vs ST [0.27 kg 95 % CI (−0.87, 1.42)]. The ST group exhibited superior increases in leg press 1 repetition maximum (1RM) strength [−14 kg (−23, −5)], while the LLHR group showed greater strength endurance increases (65 % 1RM) [8 repetitions (2, 14)]. Leg press power [41 W (−42, 124)] and exercise efficacy [−3.8 (−21.2, 13.5)] demonstrated trivial between-group differences. A pragmatic, full-body strength training program with lighter loads taken close to failure appears to be a viable option for promoting muscular adaptations in middle- and older-aged adults. These results are exploratory and require a larger trial for confirmation. • Strength training with light loads near failure on muscle mass, strength, and power in middle-and older-aged adults is unclear. • A 10-week full-body training program with lighter loads near failure appears to be a viable option for promoting adaptations. • Results are exploratory and need a larger trial to confirm the efficacy of lighter load training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) accounts for a large proportion of the burden of skin disease, with a prevalence of around 10% among adults worldwide. In addition, systematic reviews and meta‐analyses have found that AD is associated with cancer risk at several sites; if found to be causal this could highlight potential treatment targets to reduce cancer risk. Objectives: To assess the potential causative link between AD and 14 site‐specific cancers in a two‐sample randomization study. Methods: From the largest genome‐wide association study (GWAS) of AD (10,788 cases and 30,047 non‐cases), genetic variants highly associated (p < 5 × 10−8) with AD in the European population were selected as instrumental variables (IVs). Data from large cancer consortia, as well as the UK Biobank study (n = 442,239) and the FinnGen study (n = 218,792), were employed to assess genetic associations with 14 site‐specific cancers and overall cancer. A set of complementary approaches and sensitivity analyses were carried out to examine the robustness of our results. In addition, associations for the same cancer site from different data sources were combined using meta‐analyses. Results: We discovered no strong causal evidence of AD on the risk of overall cancer, with effect estimates close to zero. After the Benjamini–Hochberg correction, the inverse‐variance weighted method indicated no association between AD and overall cancer risk in both the UK Biobank (OR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.94–1.06; FDR, 0.98) and FinnGen studies (OR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.92–1.02; FDR, 0.68). No strong evidence of an association was found between genetically predicted AD and the risk of any site‐specific cancers. Conclusions: Our MR investigation does not support a causal effect of AD on cancer risk. This finding has important implications for the prevention and management of both AD and cancer, as it reduces the concern of potential adverse effects of AD on cancer outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycidylmethacrylate (GMA)-based poly(high internal phase emulsion) (polyHIPE) monoliths were prepared using a HIPE template via radiation-induced polymerization at room temperature. The effects of surfactant content, cross-linking degree, water fraction, and porogen content on the surface area, average void diameter, distribution of void diameter, average interconnection diameter, average pore diameter, and epoxy group content of GMA-based polyHIPE monoliths were investigated. The morphology and epoxy group content of GMA-based polyHIPE monoliths may be tailored by tuning each of the factors above according to the requirements of specific applications. Finally, the different morphology and epoxy group content of GMA-based polyHIPE monoliths were applied in phenol removal from cigarette smoke (CS) through a reaction between the epoxy group and phenol. The results showed that GMA-based polyHIPE monoliths with the higher content of epoxy group and bigger surface area showed the higher rate of phenol removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interaction of nanoparticles with coexisting chemicals affects the fate and transport of nanoparticles, as well as their combined effects on aquatic organisms. Here, we evaluated the joint effect of ZnO nanoparticle (nano-ZnO) and cetyltrimethyl ammonium chloride (CTAC) on the growth of Chlorella vulgaris and explored the possible mechanism. Results showed that an antagonistic effect of nano-ZnO and CTAC (0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 mg L −1 ) was found because CTAC stop nano-ZnO being broken down into solution zinc ions (Zn 2+ ). In the presence of CTAC, the zinc (including nano-ZnO and released Zn 2+ ) showed a higher adsorption on bound extracellular polymeric substances (B-EPS) but lower accumulation in the algal cells. Moreover, we directly demonstrated that nano-ZnO was adsorbed on the algal B-EPS and entered into the algal cells by transmission electron microscope coupled with energy dispersive X-ray (TEM-EDX). Hence, these results suggested that the combined system of nano-ZnO and CTAC exhibited an antagonistic effect due to the inhibition of CTAC on dissolution of nano-ZnO and accumulation of the zinc in the algal cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Loss of neuronal proteostasis, a common feature of the aging brain, is accelerated in neurodegenerative disorders, including different types of tauopathies. Aberrant turnover of tau, a microtubule‐stabilizing protein, contributes to its accumulation and subsequent toxicity in tauopathy patients’ brains. A direct toxic effect of pathogenic forms of tau on the proteolytic systems that normally contribute to their turnover has been proposed. In this study, we analyzed the contribution of three different types of autophagy, macroautophagy, chaperone‐mediated autophagy, and endosomal microautophagy to the degradation of tau protein variants and tau mutations associated with this age‐related disease. We have found that the pathogenic P301L mutation inhibits degradation of tau by any of the three autophagic pathways, whereas the risk‐associated tau mutation A152T reroutes tau for degradation through a different autophagy pathway. We also found defective autophagic degradation of tau when using mutations that mimic common posttranslational modifications in tau or known to promote its aggregation. Interestingly, although most mutations markedly reduced degradation of tau through autophagy, the step of this process preferentially affected varies depending on the type of tau mutation. Overall, our studies unveil a complex interplay between the multiple modifications of tau and selective forms of autophagy that may determine its physiological degradation and its faulty clearance in the disease context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper studied the variation in arc profile and arc macroscopic electromagnetic force with double-pulsed variable polarity gas tungsten arc welding (DPVP-GTAW) for aluminum alloy, using a synchronous acquisition and analysis system. The arc shapes were regionalized into arc edge region and arc core region by image processing method based on the gray level of the arc images. The arc characteristic size such as arc electrode end diameter D E , arc workspace end diameter D B and arc length L were measured and analyzed in the arc core region. In variable polarity pulse phase, D E and D B decreased, while L increased when welding current switched from negative polarity to positive polarity. D E , D B and L were all much larger in low-frequency pulse on t p compared with those in low-frequency pulse off t b . The size of arc profile changed periodically between t p and t b throughout the welding process. The arc macroscopic electromagnetic force F z and arc pressure P z oscillated in cycles with the variation of arc profile, inducing the refinement of weld zone grain structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mechanical-performance of polycrystalline cubic boron nitride (PcBN) sintered using micron-sized powder particles might exceed that of samples produced from submicron crystals. However, no effective method has been found yet. In this study, commercial cubic boron nitride (cBN) powder (∼5 μm) was used to sinter high-performance PcBN without a binder. Two processes, isothermal compression (IC) and isothermal isobaric sintering (IIS), were used and compared. PcBN sintered with the former method possesses much more excellent mechanical performance, with the average Vickers hardness and indentation crack resistance of 73 GPa and 8.4 MPa·m1/2. The new temperature and pressure path adopted in the IC process can largely improve the hardness of PcBN sintered even with micro-sized powder. The quantitative analysis results of the defect structure in samples can be used as a reference for controlling the defect structure density to improve the material performance. • High hardness polycrystalline cubic boron nitride was manufactured. • New temperature and pressure path for preparing high performance superhard materials. • Positive effect of defect density on sample hardness is quantified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Demand side management can bring a lot of benefits to smart grid, including reducing peak load demand, reshaping demand file and increasing grid sustainability. To obtain a more practical and rational demand side response optimisation, the authors first build a power network model with suppliers, utility companies, consumers with appliances and energy storage systems. Unlike other power network models previously proposed, power consumptions and work patterns of appliances have been considered in the authors' work. They classify appliances into elastic and inelastic ones according to their distinct constraints on power consumptions, while all appliances' work patterns are modelled based on their functions and common users' habits in reality. With the help of convex optimisation, a distributed load scheduling algorithm is proposed subject to social welfare maximisation. Simulation results confirm that the proposed load scheduling algorithm can lead to a suitable power consumption schedule to improve the social welfare than other load scheduling algorithm does. The effect of energy storage system on reducing the fluctuation of power network is also tested and proved to be effective. At last, a strategy of charge rate is also given to satisfy power consumption and avoid energy waste, which is further verified to be competent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, hydrothermal catalytic liquefaction method was adopted to produce bio-oil from microalgae. The influence of supported Ni-Catalysts doped neodymium (Nd) on the bio-oil yield from microalgae liquefaction was investigated, aiming to find the optimal preparation procedure of bio-oil. It proved that under the condition of a temperature of 270°C and a reaction period of 30 min, the bio-oil yield of hydrothermal catalytic liquefaction of spirulina powder could reach 55.1% by means of the catalyst prepared with 1 mol/L neodymium nitrate as the dipping solution after a calcination for 4 h at 800°C. In addition, the characterization on catalyst was discussed in this research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multicomponent alloys prepared using different experimental methods under atmospheric pressure have been widely studied. However, research on multicomponent alloys involving methods using high pressures and high temperatures is still in its infancy. In the high-pressure CoCrFeNiMo x alloy, the combination of each element atom and the change in the sample crystal structure indicate a relationship between the evolution mechanism of the multi-element alloy microstructure and high pressure. We observe that molybdenum (Mo) atoms enter the medium-entropy alloy (MEA) lattice near its theoretical recrystallization temperature to form a high-entropy alloy (HEA). The diffusion of Mo atoms requires the energy provided by the temperature to overcome the low-entropy effect under high pressure, Mo atom reacts with MEA near its recrystallization temperature to form HEA means the formation of HEA under high pressure follows the specific steps. High pressure inhibits grain growth and generates numerous dislocations in the crystal, thereby preparing the high-pressure CoCrFeNiMo x alloy with a high hardness of 3.7 ± 0.12 GPa, which is harder than the CoCrFeNiMo x alloy prepared under atmospheric pressure. Additionally, the generalized high-pressure HEA constant is introduced, which is 1 ≥ P ≥ 0.17, proving that high-pressure promotes the synthesis of HEAs. This constant provides a new method for studying the thermodynamic behavior of HEAs under extreme conditions. • High-entropy allys are synthesized under extreme condition. • The formation of high-entropy allys follow the fixed step. • A generalized high-pressure high-entropy alloys constant is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the corrosion resistance of the welded joint and base metal of submarine X65 pipeline steel with ferrite plus bainite dual-phase microstructure was investigated by electrochemical and immersion tests. The corrosion product films were characterized using X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and optical microscopy. To research the development of pitting corrosion in each zone, pitting diameter statistics were finished under optical microscopy and the forming mechanism of pitting induced by inclusion was analyzed. The experimental results proved that the corrosion resistance of the welded joint was better than that of the base metal, both from the general corrosion and pitting corrosion standpoint. In the welded joint, the weld metal has the best corrosion resistance, and then was the heat affected zone (HAZ). However, there was little difference between parent metal (near HAZ) and base metal (far HAZ) on the corrosion resistance. XRD and EDS analysis showed that the composition of the outer rust layer was mainly composed of Fe2O3, Fe3O4, FeOOH, and Fe(OH)3, and the inner layer was consisted of Fe2O3, Fe3O4, and a little FeOOH. Combined with the microstructure of the each zones, it can be concluded that the best corrosion resistance of the weld metal attributes to the refined grain size. Due to a creation of a galvanic effect between the ferrite and bainite, the dual-phase microstructure of the base metal and parent metal displayed weak corrosion resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focal epilepsies often originate in the hippocampal formation of the temporal lobe (temporal lobe epilepsy) and are generally acquired after transient brain insults. Such insults induce cellular and structural reorganization processes of the hippocampus, referred to as epileptogenesis that finally convert the brain spontaneous epileptic. Here, we developed a new molecular imaging strategy in a state-of-the-art animal model to provide insights into key epileptogenic mechanisms. Our new approach combines recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) gene delivery with in vivo bioluminescence imaging. rAAV particles harboring the luciferase reporter gene under control of the minimal T type Ca-channel subunit Ca 3.2-promoter were generated and injected stereotaxically in the hippocampal region of mice. Bioluminescent signals, corresponding to Ca 3.2 promoter activation, were imaged in vivo in the pilocarpine model of status epilepticus (SE). We detected activation of key Ca 3.2 promoter motifs at 3 and 10 days after SE but not after the onset of chronic seizures. These data suggest Ca 3.2 promoter activation as novel anti-epileptogenic target. In more general terms, we have established an experimental approach that allows to follow cerebral gene promoter dynamics longitudinally and to correlate this activity to behavioral parameters in the same mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To explore the serological characteristics of viral hepatitis patients with positive anti-mitochondrial antihody (AMA)-M2 and its clinical implications. Methods Serum was collected from viral hepatitis patients who were admitted to Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, fromjanuary 2011 to Decemher 2013. SerumAMA-M2 was measured hy ELISA. A total of 102 viral hepatitis patients with positive AMA-M2 were screened out, including 53 patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB), 27 patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC), 5 patients with hepatitis E (HE), 9 patients with CHB accompanied hy primary hiliary cirrhosis (PBC), and 7 patients with CHC accompanied hy PBC. We also collected serum from 60 PBC patients as controls. Patients were grouped hy the clinical diagnosis and analyzed retrospectively considering their serological characteristics. Comparison of continuous data was made hy one-way ANO-VA. Results Level of serum AMA-M2 was low and medium in the CHB, CHC, and HE groups and was significantly lower than those of the PBC group and CHB/PBC and CHC/PBC groups ( all P < 0.0001). Serum ALT and AST in the HE group were significantly higher than that in the PBC group (P<0.01). Serum gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) levels in the CHB and CHC groups were significantly lower than that in the PBC group (hoth P <0.001), hut did not show significant difference when compared with the CHB/PBC or CHC/PBC group (P > 0.05). Serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and IgM in the CHB group were significantly lower than those in the PBC group (P < 0.0001). Serum ALP and IgM in the CHC group were significantly lower than those in the PBC group and CHC/PBC group (all P < 0.05). Serum IgM in the HE group was significantly lower that that in the PBC group (P <0.01). Serum C3 level in the CHB group was significantly lower than those in the PBC group and CHB/PBC group (both P<0.05). Conclusion AMA-M2 is not restricted to PBC pa'tients alone, and medium or low level of AMA-M2 can be seen in patients with viral hepatitis, which is not an autoimmune disease. Other serological markers such as ALP, GGT, IgM, and C3 are helpful in diagnosing and differentiating PBC [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the differential expression and putative function of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) during the osteogenic differentiation of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Methods: The differential lncRNAs expression profiles of undifferentiated and differentiated cells during osteogenic differentiation were established by lncRNA microarray. Microarray data were validated using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Bioinformatic analyses (gene ontology, pathway and co-expression network analysis) were applied for further study of these differentially expressed lncRNAs. Results: A total of 1,206 differentially expressed lncRNAs were identified during the process of osteogenic differentiation. Among these lncRNAs, 687 were up-regulated and 519 were down-regulated more than two-fold. Bioinformatic analyses were applied for further study of these differentially expressed lncRNAs. Further analysis found 48 regulated enhancer-like lncRNA and 14 lincRNA. The dynamic expression trends H19 and uc022axw.1 were then observed using qRT-PCR. The results showed that the two up-regulated lncRNAs are likely to play important roles in osteogenic differentiation process. Conclusions: Taken together, our study first revealed the expression profiles of lncRNAs in osteogenic differentiation of human bone marrow MSCs. It provides an experimental basis for further research on lncRNAs functions during osteogenic differentiation of human bone marrow MSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the clinical effectiveness of posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) and posterolateral fusion (PLF) for lumbar spondylolisthesis and to collect scientific evidence for determining which fusion method is better. Methods: After systematic search, comparative studies were selected according to eligibility criteria. Checklists by Furlan and by Cowley were used to evaluate the risk of bias of the included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and nonrandomized controlled studies, respectively. Weighed mean differences (WMDs) and risk differences were calculated for common outcomes. The final strength of evidence was expressed as different levels recommended by the GRADE Working Group. Results: Four RCTs and five comparative observational studies were identified. Moderate-quality evidence indicated that PLIF was more effective than PLF for clinical satisfaction [odds ratios (OR) 0.49, 95 % confidence limits (95 % CI): (0.28, 0.88, P = 0.02)]. Moderate-quality evidence showed that no significant difference was found for the complication rate [OR 2.28, 95 % CI (0.97, 5.35), P = 0.06]. In secondary outcomes, moderate-quality evidence indicated that PLIF improved fusion rate [OR 0.32, 95 % CI (0.17, 0.61), P = 0.0006]. Low-quality evidence showed that PLIF resulted in a lower reoperation rate than PLF [OR 5.30, 95 % CI (1.47, 19.11), P = 0.01]. No statistical difference was found between the two groups with regard to blood loss [WMD = 76.52, 95 % CI (−310.68, 463.73), P = 0.70] and operating time [WMD = −1.20, 95 % CI (−40.36, 37.97), P = 0.95]. Conclusions: Moderate-quality evidence indicates that PLIF can improve the clinical satisfaction and increase the fusion rate compared to PLF. No superiority was found between the two fusion methods in terms of complication rate, amount of blood loss, and operating time for the treatment of lumbar spondylolisthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Global experimental and modeling studies show effects of cofactors. [•] Ferredoxin reactions are energetically efficient routes to reduced products. [•] Protein engineering of enzyme cofactor specificity can help cell cofactor balance. [•] Enhancement of pentose pathway or transhydrogenases improves NADPH availability. [•] Cofactor effects are important in large-scale bioprocesses. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Enzymatic synthesis of some industrially important compounds depends heavily on cofactor NADPH as the reducing agent. This is especially true in the synthesis of chiral compounds that are often used as pharmaceutical intermediates to generate the correct stereochemistry in bioactive products. The high cost and technical difficulty of cofactor regeneration often pose a challenge for such biocatalytic reactions. In this study, to increase NADPH bioavailability, the native NAD +-dependent glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) gapA gene in Escherichiacoli was replaced with a NADP +-dependent gapB from Bacillus subtilis. To overcome the limitation of NADP + availability, E. coli NAD kinase, nadK was also coexpressed with gapB. The recombinant strains were then tested in three reporting systems: biosynthesis of lycopene, oxidation of cyclohexanone with cyclohexanone monooxygenase (CHMO), and an anaerobic system utilizing 2-haloacrylate reductase (CAA43). In all the reporting systems, replacing NAD +-dependent GapA activity with NADP +-dependent GapB activity increased the synthesis of NADPH-dependent compounds. The increase was more pronounced when NAD kinase was also overexpressed in the case of the one-step reaction catalyzed by CAA43 which approximately doubled the product yield. These results validate this novel approach to improve NADPH bioavailability in E. coli and suggest that the strategy can be applied in E. coli or other bacterium-based production of NADPH-dependent compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objective: The current study explored the correlation of Helicobacter pylori and the polymorphisms of human leukocyte antigen II (HLA-II) alleles with Graves disease (GD). Methods: A total of 216 patients with GD were recruited. 102 healthy volunteers constituted the control group. Levels of H. pylori immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies and H. pylori cytotoxin-associated gene A (CagA) IgG antibodies were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Molecular typing of the HLA-II alleles was conducted using polymerase chain reaction with sequence specific primers. Results: H. pylori, particularly CagA-positive strains, HLA-DQA1*0201, and HLA-DQA1*0501 were associated with GD (P =0.015, OR=1.811; P =0.000, OR=3.085; P =0.000, OR=0.315; and P =0.004, OR=2.844, respectively). Patients with CagA-positive H. pylori and negative HLA-DQA1*0201 or positive HLA-DQA1*0501 were more likely exposed to GD compared with those with only one of these indices. Conclusion: CagA-positive H. pylori, negative HLA-DQA1*0201, or positive HLA-DQA1*0501 may increase the risk of GD. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]