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Aiming at the problem that the switching frequency is not fixed and the number of samples is large when using the traditional finite control set-model predictive control (FCS-MPC) method for a five-level inverter with coupled inductors, an improved model prediction method is proposed. This improved method combines the space vector pulse width modulation and the minimum current error optimization principle to design the modulation strategy, and combines the modulation function with the evaluation function to obtain a modulation function that satisfies the minimum current error. Compared with the traditional finite set model prediction method, the improved method can realize the balance of the coupled inductor current without measuring the coupled inductor current, can fix the switching frequency of power switches, and retains the rapidity of the traditional model predictive control. The effectiveness of the proposed method is verified by simulation and experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study the exceptional-point (EP) structure and the associated quantum dynamics in a system consisting of a non-Hermitian qubit and a Hermitian qubit. We find that the system possesses two sets of EPs, which divide the system-parameter space into P T -symmetry unbroken, partially broken and fully broken regimes, each with distinct quantum-dynamics characteristics. Particularly, in the partially broken regime, while the P T -symmetry is generally broken in the whole four-dimensional Hilbert space, it is preserved in a two-dimensional subspace such that the quantum dynamics in the subspace are similar to those in the P T -symmetry unbroken regime. In addition, we reveal that the competition between the inter-qubit coupling and the intra-qubit driving gives rise to a complex pattern in the EP variation with system parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nature of the nonequilibrium states of materials upon rapid compression/decompression processes in the intermediate regime, between static and shock compression, is an emerging field of high pressure research. Rapid compression experiments were performed to examine the structural response of silicon (Si) up to 11 GPa and over compression rates ranging from 0.011 to 0.325 GPa/s, using a piezo‐driven dynamic diamond anvil cell (dDAC) coupled with time‐resolved Raman spectroscopy. The observed structural stability and the remarkable consistency in the pressure‐dependent Raman shift of the diamond cubic Si (Si‐I) showed its high potential as a Raman pressure scale for compression rate below 0.325 GPa/s. The validity of the derived Si scale was verified by in situ continuously monitoring pressure of two rapid compressed samples, that is, gypsum and ZnO. Results indicated that pressures determined using Si were in good agreement with those estimated from the ruby scale. Success in pressure calibration with Si, during time‐resolved Raman spectroscopy measurements of material under rapid compression using a dDAC, will greatly simplify the required hardware system in home‐laboratory and may also help in reaching a higher signal‐to‐noise in Raman measurement on a short time scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Primulina juliae has recently emerged as a novel functional vegetable, boasting a significant biomass and high calcium content. Various breeding strategies have been employed to the domestication of P. juliae. However, the absence of genome and transcriptome information has hindered the research of mechanisms governing the taste and nutrients in this plant. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis, combining the full-length transcriptomics and metabolomics, to unveil the molecular mechanisms responsible for the development of nutrients and taste components in P. juliae. Results: We obtain a high-quality reference transcriptome of P. juliae by combing the PacBio Iso-seq and Illumina sequencing technologies. A total of 58,536 cluster consensus sequences were obtained, including 28,168 complete protein coding transcripts and 8,021 Long Non-coding RNAs. Significant differences were observed in the composition and content of compounds related to nutrients and taste, particularly flavonoids, during the leaf development. Our results showed a decrease in the content of most flavonoids as leaves develop. Malate and succinate accumulated with leaf development, while some sugar metabolites were decreased. Furthermore, we identified the different accumulation of amino acids and fatty acids, which are associated with taste traits. Moreover, our transcriptomic analysis provided a molecular basis for understanding the metabolic variations during leaf development. We identified 4,689 differentially expressed genes in the two developmental stages, and through a comprehensive transcriptome and metabolome analysis, we discovered the key structure genes and transcription factors involved in the pathways. Conclusions: This study provides a high-quality reference transcriptome and reveals molecular mechanisms associated with the development of nutrients and taste components in P. juliae. These findings will enhance our understanding of the breeding and utilization of P. juliae as a vegetable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Robotic-assisted gait training (RAGT) devices are effective for children with cerebral palsy (CP). Many RAGT devices have been created and put into clinical rehabilitation treatment. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the safety and feasibility of a new RAGT for children with CP. Methods: This study is a cross-over design with 23 subjects randomly divided into two groups. The occurrence of adverse events and changes in heart rate and blood pressure were recorded during each AiWalker-K training. Additionally, Gross Motor Function Measure-88 (GMFM-88), Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS), 6 Minutes Walking Test (6MWT), Physiological Cost Index, and Edinburgh Visual Gait Score (EVGS) were used to assess treatment, period, carry-over, and follow-up effects in this study. Results: Adverse events included joint pain, skin pain, and injury. Heart rate and blood pressure were higher with the AiWalker-K compared to the rest (P < 0.05), but remained within safe ranges. After combined treatment with AiWalker-K and routine rehabilitation treatment, significant improvements in 6MWT, GMFM-88 D and E, PBS, and EVGS were observed compared to routine rehabilitation treatment alone (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Under the guidance of experienced medical personnel, AiWalker-K can be used for rehabilitation in children with CP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to study the distributed control problems of heterogeneous signed networks whose communication topologies are undirected. A distributed control protocol is designed based on neighboring state information. With this protocol be employed, the convergence results of the heterogeneous signed network are provided. It is shown that the heterogeneous signed network can achieve the static bipartite consensus (respectively, state stability) if and only if the signed graph is structurally balanced (respectively, unbalanced). The associated convergence analyses can be developed by constructing a suitable Lyapunov function. In addition, two simulation examples are presented to validate the correctness of the obtained results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The controlled preparation of oligopyrroles can be enabling for both chemistry and materials science. In this study, we present a straightforward one-pot synthesis that allows access to a series of α,α′-linked arene-bridged oligopyrrolic dialdehydes. The method relies on the Pd(0)-catalyzed tandem Suzuki cross-coupling of heterocyclic precursors. Access to the present diformyl oligopyrroles enables the construction of new macrocycles as confirmed by NMR spectroscopic and mass spectrometric studies, as well as single crystal X-ray diffraction analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Isogeometric analysis is an innovative numerical paradigm with the potential to bridge the gap between Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Engineering. However, constructing analysis-suitable parameterizations from a given boundary representation remains a critical challenge in the isogeometric design-through-analysis pipeline, particularly for computational domains with complex geometries, such as high-genus cases. To tackle this issue, we propose a multi-patch parameterization method for computational domains grounded in the singular structure of cross-fields. Initially, the vector field functions over the computational domain are solved using the boundary element method. The cross-field is then obtained through the one-to-one mapping between the vector field and the cross-field. Subsequently, we acquire the position information and topological connection relations of singularities and streamlines by analyzing the singular structure of the cross-field. Moreover, we introduce a simple and effective method for computing streamlines. We propose a novel segmentation strategy to divide the computational domain into several quadrilateral NURBS sub-patches. Once the multi-patch structure is established, we develop two methods to construct analysis-suitable multi-patch parameterizations. The first method is a direct generalization of the barrier function-based approach, while the second method yields smoother parameterizations by incorporating the interface control points of sub-patches into the optimization model. Numerical experiments demonstrate the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With increasingly used assisted reproductive technology (ART), the acquisition of high-quality oocytes and early embryos has become the focus of much attention. Studies in mice have found that the transition of chromatin conformation from non-surrounded nucleolus (NSN) to surrounded nucleolus (SN) is essential for oocyte maturation and early embryo development, and similar chromatin transition also exists in human oocytes. In this study, we collected human NSN and SN oocytes and investigated their transcriptome. The analysis of differentially expressed genes showed that epigenetic functions, cyclin-dependent kinases and transposable elements may play important roles in chromatin transition during human oocyte maturation. Our findings provide new insights into the molecular mechanism of NSN-to-SN transition of human oocyte and obtained new clues for improvement of oocyte in vitro maturation technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Methods Results Conclusions Menopause is associated with elevated cardiovascular risk due to the loss of the cardioprotective effect of oestrogens. Postmenopausal women are often prescribed hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in order to control menopause symptoms and correct hormone imbalances; however, HRT can impact serum lipids' concentrations. At present, data on the effect of the administration of medroxyprogesterone acetate plus conjugated equine oestrogens (MPACEE) on the lipid profile in females are uncertain, as the investigations conducted so far have produced conflicting results. Thus, we aimed to clarify the impact of MPACEE prescription on the serum lipids' values in women by means of a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).We employed a random‐effects model based on the DerSimonian and Laird method to determine the combined estimates of the intervention's impact on the lipid profile. The computation of the weighted mean difference (WMD) and its corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) relied on the mean and standard deviation values from both the MPACEE and control group, respectively.A total of 53 RCTs were included in the meta‐analysis with 68 RCT arms on total cholesterol (TC), 70 RCT arms on low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) and triglycerides (TG), and 69 RCT arms on high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C). Administration of MPACEE resulted in a significant reduction of TC (WMD = −11.93 mg/dL; 95% CI: −13.42, −10.44; p < .001) and LDL‐C (WMD = −16.61 mg/dL; 95% CI: −17.97, −15.26; p < .001) levels, and a notable increase in HDL‐C (WMD = 3.40 mg/dL; 95% CI: 2.93, 3.86; p < .001) and TG (WMD = 10.28 mg/dL; 95% CI: 7.92, 12.64; p < .001) concentrations. Subgroup analysis revealed that changes in the lipid profile were influenced by several factors: body mass index (for TC, HDL‐C, TG), MPACEE dosages (for TC, LDL‐C, HDL‐C, TG), age (for TC, LDL‐C, HDL‐C, TG), durations of the intervention (for TC, LDL‐C, HDL‐C, TG), continuous/sequential administration of MPACEE (continuous for TC; sequential for LDL‐C, TG) administration of MPACEE and serum lipids' concentrations before enrolment in the RCT (for TC, LDL‐C, HDL‐C, TG).MPACEE administration can influence serum lipids' concentrations in females by raising HDL‐C and TG levels and reducing LDL‐C and TC values. Therefore, postmenopausal women who suffer from hypercholesterolaemia might benefit from this type of HRT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a novel cross‐structured 2D material, violet phosphorus (VP) promises to further develop the dynamic performance, energy efficiency, and service lifetime of mechanical components owing to its high strength and toughness, large carrier mobility, wide bandgap, and good friction‐reducing properties. In this work, the partially oxidized violet phosphorus nanosheets (oVP) are synthesized and employed as the lubricating additives in the poly alpha olefin (PAO) oil environment with less oleic acid (OA) improver, which can trigger the macroscale superlubricity on the diamond‐like carbon (DLC) film deposited steel surface at high loading pressures (>800 MPa) and sliding speeds (>0.1 m s−1). The friction coefficient (COF) of the steel‐DLC tribopair lubricated by the oVP‐PAO oil can reduce down to 0.0064 with little wear. At the high‐pressure sliding interface, the force‐thermal coupling action during the running‐in process promotes the cleavage and recombination of oVP nanosheets and OA molecules to form a reliable chemical adsorption tribofilm mainly composed of phosphorus oxides and amorphous carbon, which prevents the original asperities from direct contact and provides an ultralow shear strength. These findings suggest a new method to achieve macroscale oil‐based high‐pressure superlubricity for engineering steel through the lubrication and catalyzation effects of oVP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PurposeMethodsResultsConclusionsRacial and ethnic minorities have a higher prevalence of diabetic retinopathy (DR) and present at advanced stages of disease. In an urban hospital population, we investigated microvascular differences in optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) between racial/ethnic groups while adjusting for socioeconomic status (SES).3 × 3 mm2 macular OCTA scans were obtained for analysis of foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area, FAZ perimeter as well as superficial (SCP) and deep capillary plexus (DCP) vessel density (VD), vessel length density (VLD), and adjusted flow index (AFI). SES was measured using the Area Deprivation Index. Multivariable regression models were used to adjust estimates for relevant confounders.217 non-diabetic and 1,809 diabetic patients were included in the study, consisting of 42.2% Hispanic, 24.9% non-Hispanic (NH) Asian, 6.8% NH Black, 9.7% NH White and 16.3% Other patients. NH White was used as the reference group. Hispanic, NH Asian, and NH Black patients had significantly greater FAZ areas and FAZ perimeters, and lower DCP VD and VLD, among both non-diabetic and diabetic patients (Benjamini-Hochberg adjusted P-values <0.05). The addition of SES scores in the models did not modify any regressions significantly.In patients with and without diabetes, racial and ethnic minorities have significant retinal microvasculature differences when compared to NH White patients, regardless of SES. These differences are pronounced in DCP and may predispose racial/ethnic minorities to worse outcomes in DR, thus widening disparities in ophthalmic care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant virus disease is one of the major threats to the yield and quality of sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas [L.] Lam.), the seventh most important food crop in the world in terms of production. Sweepoviruses are a group of monopartite geminiviruses (genus Begomovirus, family Geminiviridae) that infect Ipomoea plants and cause significant damage. However, investigations on the mechanisms of sweepovirus infection are scarce due to the low efficiency of the current infectious system. In this work, we used the genomic sequence of Sweet potato leaf curl virus (SPLCV) to construct an effective infectious clone, SPLCV-1.01. We optimized the inoculation procedure in Nicotiana benthamiana by improving the Agrobacterium virulence using an induction medium. Finally, we established a highly efficient agroinoculation protocol for SPLCV on sweetpotato. Furthermore, a simple and reliable "Agro-soaking" method was developed for SPLCV on sweetpotato and Ipomoea aquatica. The "Agro-soaking" method also worked well with Tomato yellow leaf curl China virus (TYLCCNV) and Beet severe curly top virus (BSCTV) on tomato. Based on the "Agro-soaking" method and a deltasatellite, the SBG51 VIGS vector worked with the SPLCV-1.01 infectious clone and silenced two endogenous genes IbCHL (magnesium-chelatase subunit) and IbPDS (phytoene desaturase) in two weeks. Moreover, the VIGS system identified IbADK1 (adenosine kinase 1) as a positive regulator to dampen the SPLCV accumulation in sweetpotato. Our work provides a practical method for studying the interaction between sweetpotato and SPLCV and the functional studies of genes in sweetpotato. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an improved pelican optimization algorithm (IPOA) to solve the economic load dispatch problem. The vertical crossover operator in the crisscross optimization algorithm is integrated to expand the diversity of the population in the local search phase. The optimal individual is also introduced to enhance its ability to guide the whole population and add disturbance factors to enhance its ability to jump out of the local optimal. The dimensional variation strategy is adopted to improve the optimal individual and speed up the algorithm's convergence. The results of the IPOA showed that coal consumption was reduced by 0.0292%, 2.7273%, and 3.6739%, respectively, when tested on 10, 40, and 80-dimensional thermal power plant units compared to POA. The IPOA can significantly reduce the fuel cost of power plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an improved swarming algorithm that enhances low-illumination images. The algorithm combines a hybrid Harris Eagle algorithm with double gamma (IHHO-BIGA) and incomplete beta (IHHO-NBeta) functions. This paper integrates the concept of symmetry into the improvement steps of the image adaptive enhancement algorithm. The enhanced algorithm integrates chaotic mapping for population initialization, a nonlinear formula for prey energy calculation, spiral motion from the black widow algorithm for global search enhancement, a nonlinear inertia weight factor inspired by particle swarm optimization, and a modified Levy flight strategy to prevent premature convergence to local optima. This paper compares the algorithm's performance with other swarm intelligence algorithms using commonly used test functions. The algorithm's performance is compared against several emerging swarm intelligence algorithms using commonly used test functions, with results demonstrating its superior performance. The improved Harris Eagle algorithm is then applied for image adaptive enhancement, and its effectiveness is evaluated on five low-illumination images from the LOL dataset. The proposed method is compared to three common image enhancement techniques and the IHHO-BIGA and IHHO-NBeta methods. The experimental results reveal that the proposed approach achieves optimal visual perception and enhanced image evaluation metrics, outperforming the existing techniques. Notably, the standard deviation data of the first image show that the IHHO-NBeta method enhances the image by 8.26%, 120.91%, 126.85%, and 164.02% compared with IHHO-BIGA, the single-scale Retinex enhancement method, the homomorphic filtering method, and the limited contrast adaptive histogram equalization method, respectively. The processing time of the improved method is also better than the previous heuristic algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aims to investigate the Noether symmetry and conserved quantity for the fractional Lagrange system with nonholonomic constraints, which are based on the Herglotz principle. Firstly, the fractional-order Herglotz principle is given, and the Herglotz-type fractional-order differential equations of motion for the fractional Lagrange system with nonholonomic constraints are derived. Secondly, by introducing infinitesimal generating functions of space and time, the Noether symmetry of the Herglotz type is defined, along with its criteria, and the conserved quantity of the Herglotz type is given. Finally, to demonstrate how to use this method, two examples are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing argyrodite-type, chlorine-rich, sodium-ion, solid-state electrolytes with high conductivity is a long-term challenge that is crucial for the advancement of all-solid-state batteries (ASSBs). In this study, chlorine-rich, argyrodite-type Na6−xPS5−xCl1+x solid solutions were successfully developed with a solid solution formation range of 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.5. Na5.5PS4.5Cl1.5 (x = 0.5), displaying a highest ionic conductivity of 1.2 × 10−3 S/cm at 25 °C, which is more than a hundred times higher than that of Na6PS5Cl. Cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy results demonstrated that the rich chlorine significantly enhanced the ionic conductivity and electrochemical stability, in addition to causing a reduction in activation energy. The Na5.5PS4.5Cl1.5 composite also showed the characteristics of a pure ionic conductor without electronic conductivity. Finally, the viability of Na5.5PS4.5Cl1.5 as a sodium electrolyte for all-solid-state sodium batteries was checked in a lab-scale ASSB, showing stable battery performance. This study not only demonstrates new composites of sodium-ionic, solid-state electrolytes with relatively high conductivity but also provides an anion-modulation strategy to enhance the ionic conductivity of argyrodite-type sodium solid-state ionic conductors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs) are routinely used during anesthesia to relax skeletal muscle. Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are ligand-gated ion channels; NMBAs can induce muscle paralysis by preventing the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) from binding to nAChRs situated on the postsynaptic membranes. Despite widespread efforts, it is still a great challenge to find new NMBAs since the introduction of cisatracurium in 1995. In this work, an effective ensemble-based virtual screening method, including molecular property filters, 3D pharmacophore model, and molecular docking, was applied to discover potential NMBAs from the ZINC15 database. The results showed that screened hit compounds had better docking scores than the reference compound d-tubocurarine. In order to further investigate the binding modes between the hit compounds and nAChRs at simulated physiological conditions, the molecular dynamics simulation was performed. Deep analysis of the simulation results revealed that ZINC257459695 can stably bind to nAChRs' active sites and interact with the key residue Asp165. The binding free energies were also calculated for the obtained hits using the MM/GBSA method. In silico ADMET calculations were performed to assess the pharmacokinetic properties of hit compounds in the human body. Overall, the identified ZINC257459695 may be a promising lead compound for developing new NMBAs as an adjunct to general anesthesia, necessitating further investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetic kidney disease is associated with the dysbiosis of the gut microbiota and its metabolites. db/db mice were fed chow diet with or without 0.4% resveratrol for 12 weeks, after which the gut microbiota, faecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and renal fibrosis were analysed. Resveratrol ameliorated the progression of diabetic kidney disease and alleviated tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Further studies showed that gut microbiota dysbiosis was modulated by resveratrol, characterised by the expansion of SCFAs-producing bacteria Faecalibaculum and Lactobacillus, which increased the concentrations of SCFAs (especially acetic acid) in the faeces. Moreover, microbiota transplantation experiments found that alteration of the gut microbiota contributed to the prevention of diabetic kidney disease. Acetate treatment ameliorated proteinuria, glomerulosclerosis and tubulointerstitial fibrosis in db/db mice. Overall, resveratrol improved the progression of diabetic kidney disease by suppressing tubulointerstitial fibrosis, which may be involved, at least in part, in the regulation of the gut microbiota-SCFAs axis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Live biotherapeutic product (LBP), a type of biological product, holds promise for the prevention or treatment of metabolic disease and pathogenic infection. Probiotics are live microorganisms that improve the intestinal microbial balance and beneficially affect the health of the host when ingested in sufficient numbers. These biological products possess the advantages of inhibition of pathogens, degradation of toxins, and modulation of immunity. The application of LBP and probiotic delivery systems has attracted great interest to researchers. The initial used technologies for LBP and probiotic encapsulation are traditional capsules and microcapsules. However, the stability and targeted delivery capability require further improved. The specific sensitive materials can greatly improve the delivery efficiency of LBPs and probiotics. The specific sensitive delivery systems show advantages over traditional ones due to their better properties of biocompatibility, biodegradability, innocuousness, and stability. Moreover, some new technologies, including layer-by-layer encapsulation, polyelectrolyte complexation, and electrohydrodynamic technology, show great potential in LBP and probiotic delivery. In this review, novel delivery systems and new technologies of LBPs and probiotics were presented, and the challenges and prospects were explored in specific sensitive materials for LBP and probiotic delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, the prediction of friction characteristics for pipe jacking drives during soil traversing has been explored. This work is done in the context of no great understanding of how drivers negotiate highly weathered rock formations. Based on a series of jacking force prediction models, including the Staheli model, Pellet-Beaucour and Kastner models (PK-O models) and proposed modified Pellet-Beaucour and Kastner models (PK-M models), direct shear tests are performed on initial-contacted specimens to obtain the friction coefficient μavg using back-analysis. The evaluation of the reliability of the parameter μavg and the modified vertical pressure σv is carried out through a three-dimensional finite element in ADINA in combination with the "wished-in place" method (WPM). The shear stress of the pipe–rock interface and the compressive stress of the end area are obtained by numerical analysis and in good agreement with the measured jacking force predicted by the proposed PK-M-1 model, indicating the correctness and necessity of considering the degree of the arching effect when modeling strong weathering rock masses. According to these results, the friction coefficient μavg of back-analysis can be used as a reliable input parameter for the finite-element modeling of pipe-jacking force in highly weathered geological formations. Highlights: The modified Pellet-Beaucour and Kastner models (PK-M models) have been established. A modified simulation method for rock pipe jacking in highly weathered rocks has been studied in ADINA. The correctness and superiority of the PK-M models have been discussed and verified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic recurrent inflammatory disease affecting the rectum and colon. Numerous epidemiological studies have identified smoking as a protective factor for UC. Dysbiosis of intestinal microbiota and release of inflammatory factors are well-established characteristics associated with UC. Therefore, we have observed that nicotine exhibits the potential to ameliorate colitis symptoms in UC mice. Additionally, it exerts a regulatory effect on colonic microbiota dysbiosis by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria while suppressing harmful bacteria. Combined in vivo and in vitro investigations demonstrate that nicotine primarily impedes the assembly of NLRP3, subsequently inhibiting downstream IL-1β secretion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is recognized as a neurovascular complication of diabetes, and emerging evidence underscores the pivotal role of inflammation in its pathophysiology. Macrophage activation is increasingly acknowledged as a key contributor to the onset and progression of DR. Different populations of macrophages originating from distinct sources contribute to DR-associated inflammation. Retinal macrophages can be broadly categorized into two main groups based on their origin: intrinsic macrophages situated within the retina and vitreoretinal interface and macrophages derived from infiltrating monocytes. The former comprises microglia (MG), perivascular macrophages, and macrophage-like hyalocytes. Retinal MG, as the principal population of tissue-resident population of mononuclear phagocytes, exhibits high heterogeneity and plasticity while serving as a crucial connector between retinal capillaries and synapses. This makes MG actively involved in the pathological processes across various stages of DR. Activated hyalocytes also contribute to the pathological progression of advanced DR. Additionally, recruited monocytes, displaying rapid turnover in circulation, augment the population of retinal macrophages during DR pathogenesis, exerting pathogenic or protective effect based on different subtypes. In this review, we examine novel perspectives on macrophage biology based on recent studies elucidating the diversity of macrophage identity and function, as well as the mechanisms influencing macrophage behavior. These insights may pave the way for innovative therapeutic strategies in the management of DR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In observational studies, the 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) level in body has been found to be closely related to particulate matter (PM) air pollution. In this study, we used the two-sample mendelian randomisation (MR) method to investigate and discuss the potential causal relationship and mode of influence. MR study. PM data (PM 10 , PM 2.5-10 , PM 2.5, PM 2.5 absorbance) came from the UK Biobank database, and 25(OH)D data came from European Bioinformatics Institute (EBI) database. The analysis was conducted utilising three prominent methods (inverse-variance-weighted [IVW], MR–Egger, weighted median, weighted mode, and simple mode). The primary emphasis was placed on IVW, accompanied by heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy tests. Furthermore, sensitivity analysis was undertaken. The MR analysis revealed a significant association between exposure to PM 10 and a decrease in levels of 25(OH)D (odds ratio [OR]: 0.878, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.789–0.977). However, no significant relationship was observed between PM 2.5 exposure and 25(OH)D (OR: 0.943, 95%CI: 0.858–1.037). Further analysis indicated that the main contributor to the decline in 25(OH)D levels is linked to PM 2.5-10 exposure (OR: 0.840, 95%CI: 0.751–0.940) and PM 2.5 absorbance (OR: 0.875, 95%CI: 0.824–0.929). No heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy existed. The MR results suggest that PM (PM 10 , PM 2.5-10 and PM 2.5 absorbance) exposure lowers vitamin D (VD) levels, but PM2.5 was not found to have a significant effect on VD in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effects of two types of oral explanations (ie, self‐explanation vs. instructional explanation) and drawing activity (no drawing vs. drawing) on video learning outcomes. These outcomes were measured by visual attention to the video (indexed by fixation time on text and diagram areas), explanation quality (indexed by personal references, concepts, and elaborations), drawing quality, behaviour patterns and overall learning performance gain. A total of 116 undergraduate and graduate students watched a 4‐min video on the human body's respiratory system. They were randomly assigned to one of four conditions (explanation generation: self‐explanation vs. instructional explanation × drawing activity: no drawing vs. drawing). Results indicated that without a drawing requirement, students in the self‐explanation condition displayed fewer personal references and exhibited a lower learning performance gain than those in the instructional explanation condition. Conversely, when drawing was required, self‐explanation students demonstrated higher drawing quality and better learning performance gain. Additionally, students in the drawing condition directed more attention to the diagram area than those in the no drawing condition. These findings suggest that in video learning (1) educators should encourage students to produce oral instructional explanations and (2) if the goal is for students to generate self‐explanations, they should also be prompted to draw to bolster their self‐explanation efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, there has been a growing demand for broadband near‐infrared (NIR) phosphor. The paper proposes a novel Cr3+ doped Ca2Y3Sb3O14 phosphor through basic research of Ca2Ln3Sb3O14: Cr3+ (Ln = Sc, Lu, and Y) phosphor. Under 467 nm excitation, Ca2Y3Sb3O14: Cr3+ phosphor shows a broad NIR emission band (650–950 nm) centered at 776 nm with a full width at half‐maximum of 110 nm. The optimal Cr3+ doping concentration is 0.05, with an internal quantum efficiency of 78%. Meanwhile, the photoluminescence emission intensity at 373 K remains 61.3% of that at room temperature. Using phosphor‐in‐glass technology, a glass–ceramic plate showed a slight improvement in its thermal stability compared to the pure phosphor. Combining Ca2Y3Sb3O14: 0.05Cr3+ phosphor with a commercial blue‐light‐emitting chip presents an output power of 44.51 mW with a photoelectric conversion efficiency of 14.78% at a drive current of 100 mA. These results suggest that the Ca2Y3Sb3O14: Cr3+ phosphor has great potential in the pc‐light‐emitting diodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellulose hydrogels are green, renewable, biocompatible, and biodegradable, with promising applications in biomedicine, environmental treatment, and food packaging. However, cellulose hydrogels usually exhibit inferior mechanical properties, which limit their applications. In this study, a green and self-reinforced cellulose hydrogel with improved mechanical properties was successfully prepared by mixing regenerated cellulose (RC), which was prepared from choline chloride/ DL -lactic acid deep eutectic solvent, and ball-milled microcrystalline cellulose (BMCC). Results show that the crystallinity and molecular weight of RC are significantly reduced, and it presents a round spherical or flaky shape. Especially, the hydrogels exhibit obvious and different-sized microscale pore structures, differently from the dense structure of pure BMCC hydrogels, which are favorable for improving the mechanical properties. The compressive strength of the cellulose hydrogels (55.4 kPa) increases significantly compared to pure BMCC hydrogels (40.3 kPa). In addition, the cellulose hydrogels also show excellent flexibility and thermal stability. This work provides a new idea for preparing green hydrogels with excellent mechanical properties and high-temperature stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and applicability of an online cervical cancer screening program using a website as the public platform and self-collected HPV testing as the primary screening method. Methods: A website (mcareu.com) was developed to facilitate the online cervical cancer screening program by Peking University Shenzhen Hospital (PUSH). Women in Shenzhen could register for participation on the website by providing essential demographic data. Sampling kits and specimens were delivered through regular logistics. Eligible women collected vaginal samples by themselves using the provided kits and in referring of the graphic guidance. The specimens were tested for HPV at PUSH or a reference lab, and the results were accessible on the website through participants' personal accounts. Participants who tested positive for high-risk HPV were scheduled for colposcopy and biopsies. The demographic and social background data of the eligible participants were analyzed to evaluate the feasibility and applicability of the online screening approach. Results: A total of 1712 applicants registered for participation, with 99.9% (1710/1712) completing registration with full data. The analysis included 1560 applicants aged 30–59, with an average age of 41.1 (± 7.6) years. Among them, 83.3% (1299/1560) provided self-collected samples for testing. Age-group analysis revealed an overall sample provision rate (SPR) exceeded 80% in all age groups. A significant difference in SPR was observed only between the 30–34 and 45–49 age groups (p < 0.05), while no significant differences were found among other age groups. 99.7% of the samples were tested qualified, and there was no significant difference in sampling failure rate among age groups. Analysis of demographic and social elements showed no significant impact on the rates of sample provision among groups in most of the social elements but the medical insurance and the monthly family-incomes. Conclusion: The findings demonstrate that online cervical cancer screening is reliable for self-registration, self-sampling, and self-ordering for specimen transportation. It is suitable for women of all ages needing to be screened, irrespective of social elements, and effectively facilitates screening for women with limited access to medical resources. Therefore, online screening holds promise as an effective approach to increase screening coverage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrically conducting two‐dimensional (2D) metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have garnered significant interest due to their remarkable structural tunability and outstanding electrical properties. However, the design and synthesis of high‐performance materials face challenges due to the limited availability of specific ligands and pore structures. In this study, we have employed a novel highly branched D3h symmetrical planar conjugated ligand, dodechydroxylhexabenzotrinaphthylene (DHHBTN) to fabricate a series of 2D conductive MOFs, named M–DHHBTN (M=Co, Ni, and Cu). This new family of MOFs offers two distinct types of pores, elevating the structural complexity of 2D conductive MOFs to a more advanced level. The intricate tessellation patterns of the M–DHHBTN are elucidated through comprehensive analyses involving powder X‐ray diffraction, theoretical simulations, and high‐resolution transmission electron microscope. Optical‐pump terahertz‐probe spectroscopic measurements unveiled carrier mobility in DHHBTN‐based 2D MOFs spanning from 0.69 to 3.10 cm2 V−1 s−1. Among M–DHHBTN famility, Cu‐DHHBTN displayed high electrical conductivity reaching 0.21 S cm−1 at 298 K with thermal activation behavior. This work leverages the “branched conjugation” of the ligand to encode heteroporosity into highly conductive 2D MOFs, underscoring the significant potential of heterogeneous double‐pore structures for future applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a simultaneous wireless power and data transfer (SWPDT) system using common coils, achieving high-speed communication in high-power wireless charging systems is challenging due to power transfer interference on communication. Based on high-frequency data carrier-based SWPDT (HFDC-SWPDT) technology, this paper proposes an orthogonal-frequency simultaneous wireless power and data transfer (OF-SWPDT) method to minimize interference where the data carrier frequency is orthogonal to the power carrier frequency and its harmonics. In addition, a guard band is inserted between the spectra of power harmonics and data in order to further separate the power and data spectra. Thus, a high-power, high-speed SWPDT system is achieved. Finally, an 11 kW prototype with 64.125 kbps full-duplex communication is developed to validate the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atmosphere modelling applications become increasingly memory-bound due to the inconsistent development rates between processor speeds and memory bandwidth. In this study, we mitigate memory bottlenecks and reduce the computational load of the GRIST dynamical core by adopting the mixed-precision computing strategy. Guided by a limited-degree of iterative development principle, we identify the equation terms that are precision insensitive and modify them from double- to single-precision. The results show that most precision-sensitive terms are predominantly linked to pressure-gradient and gravity terms, while most precision-insensitive terms are advective terms. The computational cost is reduced without compromising the solver accuracy. The runtime of the model's hydrostatic solver, non-hydrostatic solver, and tracer transport solver is reduced by 24 %, 27 %, and 44 %, respectively. A series of idealized tests, real-world weather and climate modelling tests, has been performed to assess the optimized model performance qualitatively and quantitatively. In particular, in the high-resolution weather forecast simulation, the model sensitivity to the precision level is mainly dominated by the small-scale features. While in long-term climate simulation, the precision-induced sensitivity can form at the large scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gasdermin D (GSDMD)-mediated pyroptotic cell death is implicated in the pathogenesis of cognitive deficits in sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE), yet the underlying mechanisms remain largely unclear. Dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1) facilitates mitochondrial fission and ensures quality control to maintain cellular homeostasis during infection. This study aimed to investigate the potential role of the GSDMD/Drp1 signaling pathway in cognitive impairments in a mouse model of SAE. Methods: C57BL/6 male mice were subjected to cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) to establish an animal model of SAE. In the interventional study, mice were treated with the GSDMD inhibitor necrosulfonamide (NSA) or the Drp1 inhibitor mitochondrial division inhibitor-1 (Mdivi-1). Surviving mice underwent behavioral tests, and hippocampal tissues were harvested for histological analysis and biochemical assays at corresponding time points. Haematoxylin-eosin staining and TUNEL assays were used to evaluate neuronal damage. Golgi staining was used to detect synaptic dendritic spine density. Additionally, transmission electron microscopy was performed to assess mitochondrial and synaptic morphology in the hippocampus. Local field potential recordings were conducted to detect network oscillations in the hippocampus. Results: CLP induced the activation of GSDMD, an upregulation of Drp1, leading to associated mitochondrial impairment, neuroinflammation, as well as neuronal and synaptic damage. Consequently, these effects resulted in a reduction in neural oscillations in the hippocampus and significant learning and memory deficits in the mice. Notably, treatment with NSA or Mdivi-1 effectively prevented these GSDMD-mediated abnormalities. Conclusions: Our data indicate that the GSDMD/Drp1 signaling pathway is involved in cognitive deficits in a mouse model of SAE. Inhibiting GSDMD or Drp1 emerges as a potential therapeutic strategy to alleviate the observed synaptic damages and network oscillations abnormalities in the hippocampus of SAE mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Humid heatwaves, characterized by high temperature and humidity combinations, challenge tropical societies. Extreme wet‐bulb temperatures (TW) over tropical land are coupled to the warmest sea surface temperatures by atmospheric convection and wave dynamics. Here, we harness this coupling for seasonal forecasts of the annual maximum of daily maximum TW (TWmax). We develop a multiple linear regression model that explains 80% of variance in tropical mean TWmax and significant regional TWmax variances. The model considers warming trends and El Niño and Southern Oscillation indices. Looking ahead, the strong‐to‐very‐strong El Niño at the end of 2023, with an Oceanic Niño Index of ∼2.0, suggests a 2024 tropical land mean TWmax of 26.2°C (25.9–26.4°C), and a 68% chance (24%–94%) of breaking existing records. This method also predicts regional TWmax in specific areas. Plain Language Summary: The heat and humidity in the tropics can be particularly challenging for people to stay comfortable and healthy. This combination of heat and moisture is described using a measure called the wet‐bulb temperature (TW). We found that these extremely humid and hot conditions on land can be predicted about 5 months in advance using a physics‐based statistical model. The forecast is possible because the peak of El Niño comes before the peak in the warmest sea surface temperatures, which affects the maximum TW on land. This prediction can help tropical societies to better prepare for extreme heat. Key Points: Tropical wet‐bulb temperatures (TW) peak around 5 months after El Niño wintersA multiple linear regression model considering the El Niño‐Southern Oscillation index and the long‐term warming trend effectively explains TWmax variabilityOur model quantifies the likelihood of strong El Niño and human‐induced warming pushing TWmax to record‐breaking levels [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A general strategy for confined PtCo alloy in a ZIF-67-derived carbon is presented for enhanced electrocatalytic HER. Experimental supports are provided to distinguish whether surface reaction steps or electric double-layer structures play dominant roles in the pH-dependent kinetics of HER. [Display omitted] Zeolitic imidazolate framework-67 (ZIF-67) has been widely used as a precursor to developing efficient PtCo alloy catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). However, traditional in-situ pyrolysis strategies involve complicated interface structure modulating processes between ZIF-67 and Pt precursors, challenging large-scale synthesis. Herein, a "pyrolysis etching-confined pyrolysis" approach is developed to design confined PtCo alloy in porous frameworks of onion carbon derived from ZIF-67. The confined PtCo alloy with Pt content of only 5.39 wt% exhibits a distinct HER activity in both acid (η 10 : 5 mV and Tafel: 9 mV dec−1) and basic (η 10 : 33 mV and Tafel: 51 mV dec−1) media and a drastic enhancement in stability. Density functional theory calculations reveal that the strong electronic interaction between Pt and Co allows favorable electron redistribution, which affords a favorable hydrogen spillover on PtCo alloy compared with that of pristine Pt(1 1 1). Operational electrochemical impedance spectroscopy demonstrates that the Faraday reaction process is facilitated under acidic conditions, while the transfer of intermediates through the electric double-layer region under alkaline conditions is accelerated. This work not only offers a universal route for high-performance Pt-based alloy catalysts with metal–organic framework (MOF) precursors but also provides experimental evidence for the role of the electric double layer in electrocatalysis reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synopsis: Nanostructure combined with porous carbon nanosheets (PCNs/GCNs-5) and amorphous element doped porous carbon nanosheets (PCNs/N) were prepared by changing the nitrogen source in the thermal polymerization process. Compared with the latter, PCNs/GCNs-5 has high active nitrogen ratio and mesopore ratio facilitating the pseudo-capacitance reaction and ion transport to ensure the better power and energy density, and the smaller erosion of the carbon skeleton by the nanostructure insures the cyclic stability of PCNs/GCNs-5. [Display omitted] • Nanostructure combined with porous carbon nanosheets (PCNs) were prepared by simple thermal polymerization and carbonization. • The microstructure and energy storage mechanism of amorphous N doped PCNs and nanostructure N combined with PCNs were compared. • The relationship between g-C 3 N 4 self-decomposition and pore structure, defects and surface morphology of carbon materials was investigated. • Through theoretical calculation, the different rules of N types variation in different structures are verified. Just how heteroatomic functionalization enhances electrochemical capacity of carbon materials is a recent and widely studied field in scientific research. However, there is no consensus on whether combining with heteroatom-bearing nanostructures directly or doping amorphous elements is more advantageous. Herein, two kinds of porous carbon nanosheets were prepared from coal tar pitch through anchoring graphitic carbon nitride (PCNs/GCNs-5) or doping amorphous nitrogen element (PCNs/N). The structural characteristics and electrochemical properties of the two PCNs were revealed and compared carefully. It can be found that the amorphous nitrogen of PCNs/N will have a grievous impact on its carbon skeleton network, resulting in reduced stability in charge and discharge process, while the structural collapse of carbon network could be avoided in PCNs/GCNs-5 by the heteroatoms in the form of nanostructure. Particularly, PCNs/GCNs-5 exhibits extremely high specific capacity of 388 F g−1 at 1 A g−1, and splendid the capacitance retention rate of 98% after 10,000 cycles of charge and discharge, which are overmatch than the amorphous nitrogen doped carbon materials reported recently and PCNs/N. The combining strategy with nanostructure will inspire the design of carbon materials towards high-performance supercapacitor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyethylene glycol chains in two terminals of the naphthalene functional group are threaded into α‐cyclodextrin cavities to form the pseudopolyrotaxane (NPR), which not only effectively induces the phosphorescence of the naphthalene functional group by the cyclodextrin macrocycle confinement, but also provides interfacial hydrogen bonding assembly function between polyhydroxy groups of cyclodextrin and waterborne polyurethane (WPU) chains to construct elastomers. The introduction of NPR endows the elastomer with enhanced mechanical properties and excellent room temperature phosphorescent (RTP) emission (phosphorescence remains in water, acid, alkali, and organic solvents, even at 160 °C high temperatures). Especially, the reversible mechanically responsive room temperature phosphorescence behavior (phosphorescence intensity increased three times under 200% strain) can be observed in the mechanical stretch and recover process, owing to strain‐induced microstructural changes further inhibiting the non‐radiative transition and the vibration of NPR. Therefore, changing the phosphorescence behavior of supramolecular elastomers through mechanical stretching provides a new approach for supramolecular luminescent materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a sparse grid interpolation and ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF)-based Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) method (SG-EnMCMC). Initiating with the formulation of a recursive equation for the state space vector, derived from the structural dynamic equation, this study adopts a dimensionality reduction strategy. This approach involves a separation of physical parameters and the state space vector. The acquisition of physical parameters is accomplished through sampling, utilizing sample moments to substitute population moments, thereby mitigating the need for computationally high-dimensional covariance matrix calculations. To further streamline the recursive equation of the state space vector, a sparse grid method is employed for interpolation. This step simplifies the process while ensuring superior accuracy compared to the Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) and Unscented Kalman Filter (UKF). Subsequent to this, acceptance rates and the final parameter posterior distribution within the MCMC framework are derived. The efficiency of the proposed method is assessed through validation in two shaking table experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we study an unified resilient asymmetric bipartite consensus (URABC) problem for nonlinear multi‐agent systems with both cooperative and antagonistic interactions under denial‐of‐service (DoS) attacks. We first prove that the URABC problem is solved by stabilizing the neighborhood asymmetric bipartite consensus error. Then, we develop a distributed compact form dynamic linearization method to linearize the neighborhood asymmetric bipartite consensus error. By using an attack compensation mechanism to eliminate the adverse effects of DoS attacks and an extended discrete state observer to enhance the robustness against unknown dynamics, we finally propose a distributed resilient data‐driven adaptive control (DDAC) algorithm to solve the URABC problem. A numerical example validates the proposed results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effects of low-voltage electrostatic field (LVEF), electron beam irradiation (EBI), and modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) on protein and lipid oxidation of pigeon meat (PM) during chilled storage. The water-holding capacity (WHC) and color reflected that the difference between the LVEF-treated (1.20 kV/m) group and the fresh groups was the smallest. The oxidation analysis of protein showed that the LVEF-treated group had smaller values of carbonyl concentration (0.0551 ± 0.0048 μmol/g), larger values of sulfhydryl concentration (0.737 ± 0.0364 μmol/g), and higher Ca2+-ATPase activity (30.10 ± 1.52 U/g) than the C4 group (0.0649 ± 0.0013 μmol/g, 0.510 ± 0.0225 μmol/g, and 25.18 ± 1.42 U/g, respectively). SDS-PAGE demonstrated the ability of LVEF to inhibit the hydrolysis and cross-linking of proteins. Meanwhile, the LVEF-treated group had lower values of TBARs (2.26 ± 0.0371 μg/kg) than the other groups and had a lower lipid oxidation level. In addition, the fatty acids in the LVEF-treated group were similar to those in the fresh group and were beneficial to human health. In conclusion, LVEF (1.20 kV/m) could inhibit protein and lipid oxidation of PM during chilled storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To explore the relationship among cognitive function, anxiety, and self-management behavior in elderly patients with diabetes mellitus. Methods A face-to-face survey was conducted among elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus aged 60 and over in the Department of Endocrinology, Penglai People' s Hospital, Yantai city, Shandong Province from October 2021 to May 2022. The Geriatric Anxiety Inventory-Short Form (GAI-SF), the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and self-designed items were used to assess the anxiety, cognitive function, and self-management behaviors of the patients. Path analysis and mediation effect testing were conducted using a structural equation model. Results In total 1 319 diabetic patients aged 60 and above were enrolled, of whom 8.3% had anxiety symptoms. The average scores of MoCA scale and self-management behavior were (23.89±4.12) and (3.74±1.27), respectively. Structural equation model analysis showed that cognitive function had a masking effect between anxiety and self-management behavior, and anxiety had a positive effect on self-management behavior directly (β)=0.127, P < 0.019). However, it also had a strong negative effect on cognitive function (β=-0.567, P < 0.001) and then had a negative effect on self-management behavior (β=-0.241, P < 0.001). Therefore, anxiety had a negative effect on self-management behavior (β=-0.115, P < 0.001). Conclusion The anxiety of elderly patients with diabetes is negatively correlated with their self-management behavior and can have a negative effect on self-management through cognitive function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The existing negative selection algorithms can not improve their detection performance by human intervention during the testing process. This paper proposes a negative selection algorithm with human-in-the-loop for anomaly detection. It uses self-sample clusters to train detectors with a nonrandom strategy. Its detectors and self-sample clusters fully cover state space without overlapping each other. It locally adjusts detectors and self-sample clusters with human intervention to improve its detection performance during the testing process. Experiments were performed on two synthetic datasets and the Iris dataset from the UCI repository to assess its performance. The results show that it outperforms the other anomaly detection methods in most cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the spatiotemporal variation of viscosity, the simulation of grouting processes is quite challenging. In this work, based on the volume-of-fluid method, the transport time tracking approach is developed to model the spatiotemporal variation of viscosity in grouting processes. Firstly, a partial differential equation of transport time is proposed and applied to obtain the resided time of fluid clusters in the domain. Meanwhile, in order to address the variable viscosity of the slurry phase, the dependence of viscosity on transport time is associated. Secondly, an artificial convection term is introduced in the equation of transport time to capture a sharp interface. This algorithm is implemented using the open-source CFD code OpenFOAM. Subsequently, three different test cases are launched to verify our algorithm and implementation. By using the combination of these numerical treatments, the transport time can be solved in the slurry phase with limited numerical diffusion. Finally, the approach is further compared with the previous experiment. The results show that not only can our algorithm solve the transport time correctly, but also the pressure data agree well with the experiment. It can be seen that this approach could be further applied to the simulation of other fields such as thrombosis, ventilation, and radionuclide migration problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The formation of new blood vessels, known as angiogenesis, significantly impacts the development of multiple types of cancer. Consequently, researchers have focused on targeting this process to prevent and treat numerous disorders. However, most existing anti-angiogenic treatments rely on synthetic compounds and humanized monoclonal antibodies, often expensive or toxic, restricting patient access to these therapies. Hence, the pursuit of discovering new, affordable, less toxic, and efficient anti-angiogenic compounds is imperative. Numerous studies propose that natural plant-derived products exhibit these sought-after characteristics. The objective of this review is to delve into the anti-angiogenic properties exhibited by naturally derived flavonoids from plants, along with their underlying molecular mechanisms of action. Additionally, we summarize the structure, classification, and the relationship between flavonoids with their signaling pathways in plants as anti-angiogenic agents, including main HIF-1α/VEGF/VEGFR2/PI3K/AKT, Wnt/β-catenin, JNK1/STAT3, and MAPK/AP-1 pathways. Nonetheless, further research and innovative approaches are required to enhance their bioavailability for clinical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, high morbidity and mortality of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and high comorbidity rate of neuropsychiatric disorders contribute to global burden of health and economics. Consequently, a discipline concerning abnormal connections between the brain and the heart and the resulting disease states, known as psychocardiology, has garnered interest among researchers. However, identifying a common pathway that physicians can modulate remains a challenge. Gut microbiota, a constituent part of the human intestinal ecosystem, is likely involved in mutual mechanism CVDs and neuropsychiatric disorder share, which could be a potential target of interventions in psychocardiology. This review aimed to discuss complex interactions from the perspectives of microbial and intestinal dysfunction, behavioral factors, and pathophysiological changes and to present possible approaches to regulating gut microbiota, both of which are future directions in psychocardiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nodular diaphragm wall (NDW) is a novel foundation that can provide significant uplift load resistance compared to a typical diaphragm wall foundation. With the advantages of low noise, cost‐effectiveness, high work efficiency, and construction abilities close to existing buildings, NDW has excellent engineering application prospects in urbanization construction. However, the scarce knowledge on the uplift resistance, failure mode, and calculation method of the NDW has hindered its application in practice. In this paper, indoor model tests based on particle image velocimetry (PIV) technology are carried out to investigate the uplift behavior of three NDW models with different amounts and locations of nodular parts. The load transfer mechanisms of the three NDW models are discussed in detail, and special attention is given to the failure mode analysis. In addition, a theoretical analysis is implemented based on the load transfer approach. The transfer function and associated critical parameters are discussed in detail. Accordingly, an iterative procedure is proposed to interpret the load transfer information of an uplift NDW in multilayered soils under different loading levels. The findings derived in this paper are helpful to the uplift deformation, capacity calculation, and design of NDW in practical engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two kinds of Cr 2 AlC coatings with different microstructures were prepared by direct crystallization during oxidation at 1000 ℃ and conventional crystallization at 700 ℃ for 1 h for amorphous Cr-Al-C coatings prepared by magnetron sputtering, respectively. The effect of microstructure on the oxidation behavior of the coatings at 1000 ℃ was investigated. The grain boundary density and dislocation density of the Cr 2 AlC coatings crystallized directly during oxidation were much higher, which provided much more sites for heterogeneous nucleation of α-Al 2 O 3 and fast diffusion paths for Al. Therefore, the coating formed complete pure α-Al 2 O 3 scales earlier with better antioxidant properties. More importantly, the present work demonstrates feasibility and advantages of directly applying amorphous Cr-Al-C coatings at high temperatures without additional crystallization treatments, which simplifies preparation process of Cr 2 AlC coatings, facilitates their industrial applications, and provides a new method for rapid preparation of MAX-phase coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Surface modification of PET substrates using polyvinylpyrrolidone to improve substrate hydrophilicity. • The MXene/AgNW/MXene transparent conductive films with a sandwich structure were prepared by layer-by-layer self-assembly. • The EMI SE of the MAM TCF achieves 27.12 dB, and the transmittance is 85.1 %. • The MAM TCF has a fast thermal response and high electro-thermal conversion at low voltages. With the popularization of 5G technology and the development of science and technology, flexible and transparent conductive films (TCF) are increasingly used in the preparation of optoelectronic devices such as electromagnetic shielding devices, transparent flexible heaters, and solar cells. Silver nanowires (AgNW) are considered the best material for replacing indium tin oxide to prepare TCFs due to their excellent comprehensive properties. However, the loose overlap between AgNWs is a significant reason for the high resistance. This article investigates a sandwich structured conductive network composed of AgNW and Ti 3 C 2 T x MXene for high-performance EMI shielding and transparent electrical heaters. Polyethylene pyrrolidone (PVP) solution was used to hydrophilic modify PET substrate, and then MXene, AgNW, and MXene were assembled layer by layer using spin coating method to form a TCF with a sandwich structure. One-dimensional AgNW is used to provide electron transfer channels and improve light penetration, while two-dimensional MXene nanosheets are used for welding AgNWs and adding additional conductive channels. The flexible TCF has excellent transmittance (85.1 % at 550 nm) and EMI shielding efficiency (27.1 dB). At the voltage of 5 V, the TCF used as a heater can reach 85.6 °C. This work offers an innovative approach to creating TCFs for the future generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractIn the past decade, the synthetic aperture radar interferometry (InSAR) technique has been extensively employed in deltas, making it possible to obtain more subsidence signals. However, the spatiotemporal nonlinearity of land subsidence often results in inaccurate estimations. Based on 72 Sentinel-1A images captured from 2016 to 2021 and the time-series persistent scatterer-interferometric SAR (PS-InSAR) method, we comprehensively analyze the temporal and spatial dynamics of recent land subsidence in the Yellow River Delta (YRD). The findings suggest a notable spatial shift in the subsidence funnel area within this delta region over the past 6 years (2016–2021), with gradual westward movement from the salt fields in the northeast to those in the central north. Additionally, with 2020 as the demarcation point, there was a notable change in magnitude, initially exhibiting acceleration at −333 mm/yr, followed by deceleration at −231 mm/yr and culminating in renewed acceleration at −413 mm/yr. The subsidence characteristics may be attributed to changes in the underground brine reserves, leading to consolidation of the confined aquifer. Furthermore, the ground subsidence trend suddenly slowed at the end of 2019, which we speculate is related to the significant reduction in human activities caused by COVID-19 prevention and control measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we describe a copper‐catalyzed sequential C(sp2)−H/C(sp3)−H annulation of indoles with propargylic alcohols for the synthesis of diversely functionalized hydrobenzo[b]carbazole scaffolds. The reaction involves a Friedel‐Crafts addition, 1,5‐H shift, 6π electrocyclization, and dearomatization‐aromatization cascade. Importantly, this is a report of the use of 2‐(diarylmethyl)indoles as three‐carbon synthons in a (3+3) annulation reaction involving C(sp3)−H indole functionalization under oxidant‐free conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Purpose Methods Results Conclusions Pulmonary sclerosing pneumocytoma (PSP) and pulmonary carcinoid (PC) are difficult to distinguish based on conventional imaging examinations. In recent years, radiomics has been used to discriminate benign from malignant pulmonary lesions. However, the value of radiomics based on computed tomography (CT) images to differentiate PSP from PC has not been well explored.We aimed to investigate the feasibility of radiomics in the differentiation between PSP and PC.Fifty‐three PSP and fifty‐five PC were retrospectively enrolled and then were randomly divided into the training and test sets. Univariate and multivariable logistic analyses were carried to select clinical predictor related to differential diagnosis of PSP and PC. A total of 1316 radiomics features were extracted from the unenhanced CT (UECT) and contrast‐enhanced CT (CECT) images, respectively. The minimum redundancy maximum relevance and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator were used to select the most significant radiomics features to construct radiomics models. The clinical predictor and radiomics features were integrated to develop combined models. Two senior radiologists independently categorized each patient into PSP or PC group based on traditional CT method. The performances of clinical, radiomics, and combined models in differentiating PSP from PC were investigated by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The diagnostic performance was also compared between the combined models and radiologists.In regard to differentiating PSP from PC, the area under the curves (AUCs) of the clinical, radiomics, and combined models were 0.87, 0.96, and 0.99 in the training set UECT, and were 0.87, 0.97, and 0.98 in the training set CECT, respectively. The AUCs of the clinical, radiomics, and combined models were 0.84, 0.92, and 0.97 in the test set UECT, and were 0.84, 0.93, and 0.98 in the test set CECT, respectively. In regard to the differentiation between PSP and PC, the combined model was comparable to the radiomics model, but outperformed the clinical model and the two radiologists, whether in the test set UECT or CECT.Radiomics approaches show promise in distinguishing between PSP and PC. Moreover, the integration of clinical predictor (gender) has the potential to enhance the diagnostic performance even further. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]