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Neural activity and behavior vary within an individual (states) and between individuals (traits). However, the mapping of state-trait neural variation to behavior is not well understood. To address this gap, we quantify moment-to-moment changes in brain-wide co-activation patterns derived from resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging. In healthy young adults, we identify reproducible spatiotemporal features of co-activation patterns at the single-subject level. We demonstrate that a joint analysis of state-trait neural variations and feature reduction reveal general motifs of individual differences, encompassing state-specific and general neural features that exhibit day-to-day variability. The principal neural variations co-vary with the principal variations of behavioral phenotypes, highlighting cognitive function, emotion regulation, alcohol and substance use. Person-specific probability of occupying a particular co-activation pattern is reproducible and associated with neural and behavioral features. This combined analysis of state-trait variations holds promise for developing reproducible neuroimaging markers of individual life functional outcome. Neural activity and behavior vary within and between individuals, but how these variations are linked to behavior is not well understood. This neuroimaging study shows that the human brain shows co-activation patterns that are highly reproducible and associated with neural and behavioral features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is an age-related disease featured with abnormal fibrotic response and compromised lung function. Cellular senescence is now considered as an essential driving mechanism for IPF. Given the poor knowledge of the mechanisms underpinning IPF progression, understanding the cellular processes and molecular pathways is critical for developing effective therapies of IPF. Methods: Lung fibrosis was induced using bleomycin in C57BL/6 mice. Cellular senescence was measured by immunofluorescence. The effects of FGF-4 on fibroblast activation markers and signaling molecules were assessed with western blot and qPCR. Results: We demonstrated elevated abundance of senescent mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in IPF lung tissues, which was tightly correlated with the severity of pulmonary fibrosis in vivo. In addition, senescent MSCs could effectively induce the phenotype of pulmonary fibrosis both in vitro and in vivo. To further confirm how senescent MSCs regulate IPF progression, we demonstrate that FGF-4 is significantly elevated in senescent MSCs, which can induce the activation of pulmonary fibroblasts. In vitro, FGF-4 can activate Wnt signaling in a FOXM1-dependent manner. Inhibition of FOXM1 via thiostrepton effectively impairs FGF-4-induced activation of pulmonary fibroblast and dramatically suppresses the development of pulmonary fibrosis. Conclusion: These findings reveal that FGF-4 plays a crucial role in senescent MSCs-mediated pulmonary fibrogenesis, and suggests that strategies aimed at deletion of senescent MSCs or blocking the FGF-4/FOXM1 axis could be effective in the therapy of IPF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, ammonium perchlorate (AP) as a strong oxidant has been added into Al/polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) nanothermites. Based on homogeneous structure of PVDF, shorter reaction contact between components can be obtained for more outstanding ignition and combustion performance. Water contact angle experiments were conducted to evaluate the hydrophobicity of the composite films, indicating that the suitability of composite material has enhanced under wet environment. According to TG-DSC results, the thermal decomposition of AP can improve the whole heat release process, which theoretically has excellent combustion performance advantages. Constant volume pressure tests were conducted to assess the energy release properties of the films compared with Al@PVDF films. Combustion performance in air was evaluated by employing optical sensors and a high-speed camera to measure factors such as the ignition delay time, light intensity and combustion flame propagation. After adding 15 % AP, the maximum pressure of Al/AP@PVDF film is 0.0960 Mpa, and that of Al@PVDF film is 0.0805 Mpa. The maximum pressure of the film is increased by nearly 19.25 %. Compared with Al@PVDF film, the ignition delay time of Al/AP@PVDF film is shortened by 45 ms, and the light intensity is increased by nearly 93.39 %. However, excessive AP content adversely impacted film formation efficiency, leading to the deterioration of various properties. Therefore, an optimal AP content of approximately 15 % in Al/AP@PVDF system was finally identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the use of an interlocking gap gradation and rubber powder to improve the crack resistance of a cement-stabilized macadam (CSM) mixture. First, a crack-resistant interlocking gap gradation was designed by controlling the percentage of passing of the critical sieve size and the maximum nominal particle diameter. Second, the effect of different addition orders of rubber powder on the crack resistance of the CSM mixture was explored. Finally, the properties and crack resistance of the CSM mixture were analyzed based on the types of gradation and types of rubber powder. The test results show that the crack-resistant interlocking gap gradation not only strengthens the mechanical properties of the CSM mixture but also improves its crack resistance. CSM mixtures with modified rubber powder and cement added simultaneously exhibit the best crack resistance property and mechanical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a sleep-disordered breathing characterized by intermittent hypoxia (IH) that may cause cognitive dysfunction. However, the impact of IH on molecular processes involved in cognitive function remains unclear. Methods: C57BL / 6 J mice were exposed to either normoxia (control) or IH for 6 weeks. DNA hydroxymethylation was quantified by hydroxymethylated DNA immunoprecipitation (hMeDIP) sequencing. ten-eleven translocation 1 (Tet1) was knocked down by lentivirus. Specifically, cognitive function was assessed by behavioral experiments, pathological features were assessed by HE staining, the hippocampal DNA hydroxymethylation was examined by DNA dot blot and immunohistochemical staining, while the Wnt signaling pathway and its downstream effects were studied using qRT-PCR, immunofluorescence staining, and Luminex liquid suspension chip analysis. Results: IH mice showed pathological changes and cognitive dysfunction in the hippocampus. Compared with the control group, IH mice exhibited global DNA hydroxylmethylation in the hippocampus, and the expression of three hydroxylmethylases increased significantly. The Wnt signaling pathway was activated, and the mRNA and 5hmC levels of Wnt3a, Ccnd2, and Prickle2 were significantly up-regulated. Further caused downstream neurogenesis abnormalities and neuroinflammatory activation, manifested as increased expression of IBA1 (a marker of microglia), GFAP (a marker of astrocytes), and DCX (a marker of immature neurons), as well as a range of inflammatory cytokines (e.g. TNFa, IL3, IL9, and IL17A). After Tet1 knocked down, the above indicators return to normal. Conclusion: Activation of Wnt signaling pathway by hippocampal Tet1 is associated with cognitive dysfunction induced by IH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer is the leading cause of mortality in the world. And among all cancers lung and colon cancers are 2 of the most common causes of death and morbidity. The aim of this study was to develop an automated lung and colon cancer classification system using histopathological images. An automated lung and colon classification system was developed using histopathological images from the LC25000 dataset. The algorithm development included data splitting, deep neural network model selection, on the fly image augmentation, training and validation. The core of the algorithm was a Swin Transform V2 model, and 5-fold cross validation was used to evaluate model performance. The model performance was evaluated using Accuracy, Kappa, confusion matrix, precision, recall, and F1. Extensive experiments were conducted to compare the performances of different neural networks including both mainstream convolutional neural networks and vision transformers. The Swin Transform V2 model achieved a 1 (100%) on all metrics, which is the first single model to obtain perfect results on this dataset. The Swin Transformer V2 model has the potential to be used to assist pathologists in classifying lung and colon cancers using histopathology images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The incidence of obstructive sleep apnea in children is increasing year by year, and its occurrence and related metabolic and endocrine lesions may be related to hypothalamic dysfunction. Lysine acetylation is a common post-translational modification that is essential for metabolism. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of chronic intermittent hypoxia-induced lysine acetylation on hypothalamic function in an infant mice model, simulating pediatric obstructive sleep apnoea patients. Our study revealed the lysine acetylome and proteomic profile of the hypothalamus induced by chronic intermittent hypoxia in juvenile mice. Differentially acetylated proteins were involved in endocrine metabolism, the citrate cycle (TCA cycle), synapse function, and circadian entrainment. Our findings suggest that chronic intermittent hypoxia may induce metabolic and endocrine dysregulation through modulation of hypothalamic lysine acetylation. Paediatric obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a highly prevalent sleep disorder resulting in chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) that has been linked to metabolism and endocrine impairment. Protein acetylation, which is a frequently occurring posttranslational modification, plays pivotal roles in the regulation of hypothalamic processes. However, the effects of CIH-induced global protein acetylation on hypothalamic function and endocrine metabolism remain poorly understood. To bridge this knowledge gap, we conducted a study utilizing liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry to analyse the lysine acetylome and proteome of the hypothalamus in healthy infantile mice exposed to 3 weeks of intermittent hypoxia (as a CIH model) compared to normoxic mice (as controls). Our analysis identified and quantified 2699 Kac sites in 2453 proteins. These acetylated proteins exhibited disruptions primarily in endocrine metabolism, the citrate cycle (TCA cycle), synapse function, and circadian entrainment. Additionally, we observed significant down-regulation of proteins that are known to be involved in endocrine hormone secretion. This study aimed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying CIH-induced alterations in protein acetylation within the hypothalamus. By providing valuable insights into the pathophysiological processes associated with CIH and their impacts on hypothalamic function, our findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the consequences stemming from CIH-induced changes in protein acetylation within the hypothalamus as well as its potential role in endocrine impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exploration of the complex chemical diversity of bicyclo[n.1.1]alkanes and their use as benzene bioisosteres has garnered significant attention over the past two decades. Regiodivergent syntheses of thiabicyclo[4.1.1]octanes (S‐BCOs) and highly substituted bicyclo[2.1.1]hexanes (BCHs) using a Lewis acid‐catalyzed formal cycloaddition of bicyclobutanes (BCBs) and 3‐benzylideneindoline‐2‐thione derivatives have been established. The first hetero‐(4+3) cycloaddition of BCBs, catalyzed by Zn(OTf)2, was achieved with a broad substrate scope under mild conditions. In contrast, the less electrophilic BCB ester undergoes a Sc(OTf)3‐catalyzed [2π+2σ] reaction with 1,1,2‐trisubstituted alkenes, yielding BCHs with a spirocyclic quaternary carbon center. Control experiments and preliminary theoretical calculations suggest that the diastereoselective [2π+2σ] product formation may involve a concerted cycloaddition between a zwitterionic intermediate and E‐1,1,2‐trisubstituted alkenes. Additionally, the hetero‐(4+3) cycloaddition may involve a concerted nucleophilic ring‐opening mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exploration of the complex chemical diversity of bicyclo[n.1.1]alkanes and their use as benzene bioisosteres has garnered significant attention over the past two decades. Regiodivergent syntheses of thiabicyclo[4.1.1]octanes (S‐BCOs) and highly substituted bicyclo[2.1.1]hexanes (BCHs) using a Lewis acid‐catalyzed formal cycloaddition of bicyclobutanes (BCBs) and 3‐benzylideneindoline‐2‐thione derivatives have been established. The first hetero‐(4+3) cycloaddition of BCBs, catalyzed by Zn(OTf)2, was achieved with a broad substrate scope under mild conditions. In contrast, the less electrophilic BCB ester undergoes a Sc(OTf)3‐catalyzed [2π+2σ] reaction with 1,1,2‐trisubstituted alkenes, yielding BCHs with a spirocyclic quaternary carbon center. Control experiments and preliminary theoretical calculations suggest that the diastereoselective [2π+2σ] product formation may involve a concerted cycloaddition between a zwitterionic intermediate and E‐1,1,2‐trisubstituted alkenes. Additionally, the hetero‐(4+3) cycloaddition may involve a concerted nucleophilic ring‐opening mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alterations in intraocular and external pressure critically involve the pathogenesis of glaucoma, traumatic retinal injury (TRI), and other retinal disorders, and retinal neurons have been reported to express multiple mechanical-sensitive channels (MSCs) in recent decades. However, the role of MSCs in visual functions and pressure-related retinal conditions has been unclear. This review will focus on the variety and functional significance of the MSCs permeable to K+, Na+, and Ca2+, primarily including the big potassium channel (BK); the two-pore domain potassium channels TRAAK and TREK; Piezo; the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC); and the transient receptor potential channels vanilloid TRPV1, TRPV2, and TRPV4 in retinal photoreceptors, bipolar cells, horizontal cells, amacrine cells, and ganglion cells. Most MSCs do not directly mediate visual signals in vertebrate retinas. On the other hand, some studies have shown that MSCs can open in physiological conditions and regulate the activities of retinal neurons. While these data reasonably predict the crossing of visual and mechanical signals, how retinal light pathways deal with endogenous and exogenous mechanical stimulation is uncertain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photoreceptors are electrically coupled to one another, and the spatiotemporal properties of electrical synapses in a two-dimensional retinal network are still not well studied, because of the limitation of the single electrode or pair recording techniques which do not allow simultaneously measuring responses of multiple photoreceptors at various locations in the retina. A multiple electrode recording system is needed. In this study, we investigate the network properties of the two-dimensional rod coupled array of the salamander retina (both sexes were used) by using the newly available multiple patch electrode system that allows simultaneous recordings from up to eight cells and to determine the electrical connectivity among multiple rods. We found direct evidence that voltage signal spread in the rod-rod coupling network in the absence of Ih (mediated by HCN channels) is passive and follows the linear cable equation. Under physiological conditions, Ih shapes the network signal by progressively shortening the response time-to-peak of distant rods, compensating the time loss of signal traveling from distant rods to bipolar cell somas and facilitating synchronization of rod output signals. Under voltage-clamp conditions, current flow within the coupled rods follows Ohm's law, supporting the idea that nonlinear behaviors of the rod network are dependent on membrane voltage. Rod-rod coupling is largely symmetrical in the 2D array, and voltage-clamp blocking the next neighboring rod largely suppresses rod signal spread into the second neighboring rod, suggesting that indirect coupling pathways play a minor role in rod-rod coupling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ketamine has emerged as one of the most promising therapies for treatment-resistant depression. However, inter-individual variability in response to ketamine is still not well understood and it is unclear how ketamine's molecular mechanisms connect to its neural and behavioral effects. Methods: We conducted a single-blind placebo-controlled study, with participants blinded to their treatment condition. 40 healthy participants received acute ketamine (initial bolus 0.23 mg/kg, continuous infusion 0.58 mg/kg/hr). We quantified resting-state functional connectivity via data-driven global brain connectivity and related it to individual ketamine-induced symptom variation and cortical gene expression targets. Results: We found that: (i) both the neural and behavioral effects of acute ketamine are multi-dimensional, reflecting robust inter-individual variability; (ii) ketamine's data-driven principal neural gradient effect matched somatostatin (SST) and parvalbumin (PVALB) cortical gene expression patterns in humans, while the mean effect did not; and (iii) behavioral data-driven individual symptom variation mapped onto distinct neural gradients of ketamine, which were resolvable at the single-subject level. Conclusions: These results highlight the importance of considering individual behavioral and neural variation in response to ketamine. They also have implications for the development of individually precise pharmacological biomarkers for treatment selection in psychiatry. Funding: This study was supported by NIH grants DP5OD012109-01 (A.A.), 1U01MH121766 (A.A.), R01MH112746 (J.D.M.), 5R01MH112189 (A.A.), 5R01MH108590 (A.A.), NIAAA grant 2P50AA012870-11 (A.A.); NSF NeuroNex grant 2015276 (J.D.M.); Brain and Behavior Research Foundation Young Investigator Award (A.A.); SFARI Pilot Award (J.D.M., A.A.); Heffter Research Institute (Grant No. 1-190420) (FXV, KHP); Swiss Neuromatrix Foundation (Grant No. 2016-0111) (FXV, KHP); Swiss National Science Foundation under the framework of Neuron Cofund (Grant No. 01EW1908) (KHP); Usona Institute (2015 - 2056) (FXV). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep neural network-based programs can be applied to protein structure modeling by inputting amino acid sequences. Here, we aimed to evaluate the AlphaFold2-modeled myocilin wild-type and variant protein structures and compare to the experimentally determined protein structures. Molecular dynamic and ligand binding properties of the experimentally determined and AlphaFold2-modeled protein structures were also analyzed. AlphaFold2-modeled myocilin variant protein structures showed high similarities in overall structure to the experimentally determined mutant protein structures, but the orientations and geometries of amino acid side chains were slightly different. The olfactomedin-like domain of the modeled missense variant protein structures showed fewer folding changes than the nonsense variant when compared to the predicted wild-type protein structure. Differences were also observed in molecular dynamics and ligand binding sites between the AlphaFold2-modeled and experimentally determined structures as well as between the wild-type and variant structures. In summary, the folding of the AlphaFold2-modeled MYOC variant protein structures could be similar to that determined by the experiments but with differences in amino acid side chain orientations and geometries. Careful comparisons with experimentally determined structures are needed before the applications of the in silico modeled variant protein structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An approach using deep fluted auger to sample lunar regolith is introduced and analyzed. • Experiments are designed and conducted to study the influencing factors on sampling performance. • The influence of drilling operation parameters and drill tool structure on sampling performance is revealed. Currently, sampling and water detection of lunar regolith in the permanently shadowed regions (PSRs) of lunar polar regions is a hotspot in lunar exploration. Using deep fluted augers (DFAs) for lunar regolith sampling was proposed long ago. However, a comprehensive study on how to effectively capture regolith using a DFA has not been reported so far. In this study, based on the principles of regolith capturing with a DFA (RCDFA), we analyzed the factors possibly affecting the mass of the captured sample in terms of lunar soil conditions, drilling operating parameters, and structural design. Using the CUG-1A lunar regolith simulant (LRS), an experimental study was conducted on the influence of drilling operating parameters and the structure of the auger flutes on the mass of the captured sample during sampling operation. The experimental results revealed that the regolith sample might not be captured at all with unreasonable operating parameters; however, when using operating parameters within the feasible range, the mass of the captured sample was positively correlated with the cut per revolution (CPR) at the sampling and retracting stages and with the length and depth at the sampling stage. Among all factors, the CPR at the sampling stage had the most significant impact on the mass of the captured sample. Moreover, the width-to-depth ratio (WDR) of the auger flutes should be neither too small nor too large to obtain a good trade-off between the mass of the captured sample and the stability of the brushing efficiency. This study lays the foundation for further research on the mechanism of how DFAs capture lunar regolith and the optimal design of drilling tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is fibrotic lung disease with no effective treatment. It is characterized by destruction of alveolar structure and pulmonary interstitial fibrosis, leading to dyspnea and even asphyxia death of patients. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is considered to be a driving factor in the pathogenesis of IPF. Osteopontin (OPN) is a secreted protein widely present in the extracellular matrix and involved in the occurrence and development of a variety of diseases. Methods: The original datasets were obtained from NCBI GEO databases analyzed with the online tool GEO2R and EasyGEO. Bleomycin induced mouse pulmonary fibrosis model and OPN/OPN-biotin treated mouse model were established to investigate the role of OPN in mouse pulmonary fibrosis and the target cells of OPN. A549 cells and HBE cells were used to explore the mechanism of OPN-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in epithelial cells and mass spectrometry was used to detect OPN downstream receptors. Precision-cut lung slices and lentivirus-treated mice with pulmonary fibrosis were used to examine the therapeutic effect of OPN and its downstream pathways on pulmonary fibrosis. Results: We demonstrate that the content of OPN in IPF bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) is high compared to the normal groups, and its expression level is correlated with prognosis. At the animal level, OPN was highly expressed at all stages of pulmonary fibrosis in mice, and the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) could accurately reflect its expression in the lung. Next, we reveal that OPN was mainly expressed by macrophages and the main target cells of OPN were epithelial cells. Mice developed pulmonary fibrosis accompanied after treating the mice with OPN. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed that OPN could induce EMT of alveolar epithelial cells. Mechanistically, OPN binding triggered phosphorylation of FAK by CD44, thus activating snail1-mediated profibrotic protein synthesis. Inhibition of FAK phosphorylation and its downstream pathways can effectively alleviate pulmonary fibrosis in precision sections of lung tissue (PCLS) assay. OPN knockdown in bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis mice led to significantly less fibrosis. Conclusion: Our data suggest that OPN mediates lung fibrosis through EMT, implicating its potential therapeutic target and prognostic indicator role for IPF. OPN may be a target for the diagnosis and treatment of IPF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ritual frame indicating expressions (henceforth RFIEs) is a concept that re-conceptualizes expressions that are conventionally understood as politeness markers and provides insight into the interface between expressions and politeness. This study supplements previous studies on RFIEs, which are mostly conducted from an analyst perspective, by analyzing native observers' evaluations of a participant's use of Chinese RFIEs in the speech act of request. It is found that the use of RFIEs was evaluated as either excessively limao (Chinese politeness1) or limao. The underlying reason for the former evaluation is that the expressions were interpreted as deference markers, and the underlying reason for the latter evaluation is that the expressions were interpreted as civility markers. This study demonstrates that, at least in the speech act of request, RFIEs may indicate different ritual frames for different native observers, which calls for the incorporation of the (meta)participant's perspective in the study of RFIEs. It also supplements the current view on the usage of conventional politeness-related expressions in Chinese. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recruiting anions from electrolyte additives into the lithium ion solvation structure is a promising strategy for the construction of long‐lifespan Li‐metal batteries (LMBs). However, inadequate understanding of the anion‐involved Li+ solvation hinders the finding of new anion additives. Herein, using NO3− as an example, the effects of the newly‐introduced anion on the Li+ solvation structure are investigated. It is demonstrated that the added NO3− reduces the electrostatic potential of the Li+ solvation cluster, especially for solvated solvents, which improves electrolyte stability against the Li anode. However, such a conclusion is not universal for all anion additives. It is also confirmed that the anions with higher binding energy and smaller ion size are more apt to improve the Li stability and reversibility. Based on the above understanding, a new selection principle based on anion selection coefficient (the rate of the anion size to the binding energy toward Li+, unit: Å3 eV−1) is proposed, and with which a new hexafluorosilicate anion is found to be beneficial to LMBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To provide references for the design of the lab's upcoming prototype of the compact spaceborne lidar with a high-repetition-rate laser (CSLHRL), in this paper, the detection signal of spaceborne lidar was simulated by the measured signal of ground-based lidar, and then, the detection capability of spaceborne lidar under different atmospheric conditions was evaluated by means of the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), volume depolarization ratio (VDR) and attenuated color ratio (ACR). Firstly, the Fernald method was used to invert the optical parameters of cloud and aerosol with the measured signal of ground-based lidar. Secondly, the effective signal of the spaceborne lidar was simulated according to the known atmospheric optical parameters and the parameters of the spaceborne lidar system. Finally, by changing the cumulative laser pulse number and atmospheric conditions, a simulation was carried out to further evaluate the detection performance of the spaceborne lidar, and some suggestions for the development of the system are given. The experimental results showed that the cloud layer and aerosol layer with an extinction coefficient above 0.3 km−1 could be easily obtained when the laser cumulative pulse number was 1000 and the vertical resolution was 15 m at night; the identification of moderate pollution aerosols and thick clouds could be easily identified in the daytime when the laser cumulative pulse number was 10,000 and the vertical resolution was 120 m. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermoelectric generation (TEG) converts heat directly into electricity based on temperature difference. Many studies on combining TEG with photovoltaics to convert waste heat into electricity to increase overall power generation have been conducted. However, through previous research, if TEG was installed between the cooling and PV, it will hinder PV heat dissipation and cause electricity deterioration, which could not be compensated by TEG output. To ensure the PV cooling and meanwhile realize thermoelectric conversion, a photovoltaic direct-expansion double-condensing heat pump system based on TEG assisted by micro-channel heat pipes and water-cooling condenser is proposed. Experiments & mathematical model are carried out & verified. The regional weather conditions at different latitudes and altitudes are adopted to predict the system performance on a year basis. From the results, the electrical efficiency is improved due to the additional TEG power output. With a higher ambient temperature in Hongkong, the heating capacity is higher, but the compressor consumption also increases. With better irradiation and a lower ambient temperature, Garze has brilliant electrical performance, the COP PVT & NEER are the highest at 9.9 monthly & 8.0 annually. Furthermore, the operating costs and CO 2 emissions of this system are just 1/4–1/3 and 1/3–1/2 of gas boiler, indicating significant potential for energy-savings & emission reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Building integrated photovoltaic systems are getting popular worldwide due to their building energy conservation properties alongside emission-free electricity generation capabilities. BIPV is a suitable way to generate renewable energy without wasting any land or building space. Bangladesh has set a target to generate a great portion of its electricity from solar energy and has already implemented different photovoltaic applications. However, Bangladesh still has no policy and guidelines to implement BIPV technology in its different types of buildings. In this study, we investigated the energy conservation potentials of three different configurations of semi-transparent CdTe combined building integrated window systems in an office building considering Bangladesh's climate conditions. To investigate the building energy conservation potentials of BIPV window systems, an EnergyPlus-based numerical simulation model was developed and validated with outdoor experiment data. The annual energy simulation results indicate that in all climate conditions, CdTe combined BIPV windows can save ranging from around 30–61% of electricity consumption compared to conventional window systems. Besides, it generate around 270 kWh electricity and ensure indoor daylight illuminance level at 300 lux. Moreover, in all climate conditions, south-faced BIPV windows are more efficient for power generation, but east-faced windows are more efficient to reduce net electricity consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to study the influence of different factors on the early strength of the cold recycled emulsified asphalt mixtures, 16 different types of cold recycled mixtures were designed and produced, which were combined with different cement content, water content, and cement-water ratio. The indirect tensile strength (IDT), compressive strength (UCS), tensile strength at 15°C (TS), and indirect tensile strength ratio (ITSR) tests were used to test the early strength of the cold recycled mixture. The variance analysis method was utilized to analyze the influence of the single factor on the early strength of the cold recycled mixture. The results show that appropriate cement-water ratio content can effectively improve the early strength of cold recycled mixtures. According to the Spearman correlation coefficient and comparison of each evaluation indicator, IDT and ITSR are significantly affected by various factors, and the results are relatively stable and well-differentiated, which is recommended as indicators of early strength evaluation. Cement-water ratio is recommended as the main control factor to control the early strength of the cold recycled emulsified asphalt mixtures. The optimal cement-water ratio ranges from 0.6 to 1.0, while the cement content is controlled from 1.2% to 1.5% and the water content from 3.8% to 4.3%. This study is of great significance for promoting the design of emulsified asphalt cold regenerative mixture with cement-water ratio and improving and accelerating its early strength development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a high-efficient and three-dimensional compact heat pump system integrated with the concentrated photovoltaic plus fins (CPV/fin-SAHP) is constructed and built. Smaller space occupation and higher energy utilization are realized. The mathematical model is completed and validated by experimental data. By changing the throttling device and adjusting the mass flow rate, the system performance is improved. From the results, the exergy efficiency, heating capacity, total output, COP PVT , and COP th of the CPV/fin-SAHP system are increased by 7.92%, 13.2%, 11.01%, 4.73%, and 7.12%. Moreover, compared with traditional single-source heat pumps, the CPV/fin-SAHP achieved the highest total output and COP PVT , showing great competitivity and potential. Then two-dimensional environmental variable coordinates are established to explore the compound impact of different ambient factors, and the capacities of the three systems with adjusted opening degrees are also comparatively analyzed. In general, wind speed and ambient temperature have greater impacts on the finned structure system, while the irradiance is dramatically affecting the PV-SAHP system. The compact CPV/fin-SAHP system is less dependent on a single ambient element, showing satisfied performance under various operating ambient and presenting the most potential in comprehensive ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Ovarian cancer (OV) has the high mortality rate among gynecological cancers worldwide. Inefficient early diagnosis and prognostic prediction of OV leads to poor survival in most patients. OV is associated with ferroptosis, an iron-dependent form of cell death. Ferroptosis, believed to be regulated by long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), may have potential applications in anti-cancer treatments. In this study, we aimed to identify ferroptosis-related lncRNA signatures and develop a novel model for predicting OV prognosis. (2) Methods: We downloaded data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Genotype-Tissue Expression, and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. Prognostic lncRNAs were screened by least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO)-Cox regression analysis, and a prognostic model was constructed. The model's predictive ability was evaluated by Kaplan–Meier (KM) survival analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. The expression levels of these lncRNAs included in the model were examined in normal and OV cell lines using quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. (3) Results: We constructed an 18 lncRNA prognostic prediction model for OV based on ferroptosis-related lncRNAs from TCGA patient samples. This model was validated using TCGA and GEO patient samples. KM analysis showed that the prognostic model was able to significantly distinguish between high- and low-risk groups, corresponding to worse and better prognoses. Based on the ROC curves, our model shows stronger prediction precision compared with other traditional clinical factors. Immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoint expression levels, and Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion analyses are also insightful for OV immunotherapy. (4) Conclusions: The prognostic model constructed in this study has potential for improving our understanding of ferroptosis-related lncRNAs and providing a new tool for prognosis and immune response prediction in patients with OV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Internet is gradually reshaping adolescents' behaviors in China. It is important to identify the prevalence and risk factors to predict Internet addiction among adolescent psychiatric patients. Methods: The survey was conducted among inpatient or outpatient adolescent patients with mental disorders. All participants were interviewed face-to-face and completed Young Internet Addiction Test and other relevant assessments. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to exam between-group differences of internet addiction. Result: The prevalence for internet addiction (mild to severe) in adolescent psychiatric patients was 80.2%, where the prevalence for "medium and severe internet addiction was 25.5%. Logistic regression analysis identified two independent predictors for "medium and severe internet addiction" including the total score of Adolescent Non-suicidal-self-injury (NSSI) Behavior Function Assessment Scale (ANBFAS) and the diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) (R2 =0.27, p =.02 for total ANBFAS score, p =.01 for GAD) in psychiatric adolescent patients. Conclusion: The prevalence of internet addiction is notably high among adolescent psychiatric patients in China. Coping for Internet addiction in adolescent psychiatric patients should conclude the coping of NSSI and GAD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The origin of C atoms in 5-HMF was determined by D-galactose pyrolysis experiments. • The mechanism of α-D-galactopyranose conversion to 5-HMF were revealed. • (2R,3S,E)-2,3,5,6-tetrahydroxyhex-4-enal and (2R,3S)-2,3,6-trihydroxy-5-oxohexanal are key intermediates in 5-HMF formation. • The source of aldehyde group in 5-HMF in theoretical calculations reasonably explains the experimental results. Pyrolysis of biomass is a promising technique for producing various chemicals. During the fast pyrolysis of biomass, 5-hydroxymethyl furfural (5-HMF) is a significant product derived from holocellulose, which consists of cellulose and hemicellulose. In this study, the formation mechanism of 5-HMF was systematically revealed by combining fast pyrolysis experiments of 13C-labeled and unlabeled D-galactose and density functional theory calculations that α-D-galactopyranose was selected as the model compound for hemicellulose. Experimental results show the yield and concentration of 5-HMF gradually decrease as the temperature rises (≥400 °C). In addition, the origin of the C atoms in 5-HMF was determined. The aldehyde group and hydroxymethyl are primarily derived from C1 and C6 of D-galactose, respectively. Based on computational results, α-D-galactopyranose prefers to undergo a ring-opening reaction to form acyclic D-galactose with an energy barrier of 166.5 kJ/mol. (2R,3S,E)-2,3,5,6-tetrahydroxyhex-4-enal (C1-i2) and (2R,3S)-2,3,6-trihydroxy-5-oxohexanal (C1-i3) generated by D-galactose are important intermediates for 5-HMF formation. Because C1-i3 can readily form 5-HMF through successive dehydration at 3-OH+2-H site, cyclization, and dehydration at 5-OH+4-H site. In favorable paths, the aldehyde group of 5-HMF all comes from C1 of α-D-galactopyranose, which reasonably explains the experimental results. Overall, this study will be helpful to improve the formation mechanism of 5-HMF and to develop relevant pyrolysis techniques to prepare it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an experimental study on the combustion behavior of lateral continuous leakage of heptane and gasoline on a steel substrate. The flame shape characteristics of the two fuels at different leakage rates were recorded and described. Variation trends in burning area and flame height with leakage rate were analyzed, and variations in flame width against the flame height were formulated. The mass loss rate was lower than that of the pool fire at the same equivalent diameter. Based on the fuel layer heat feedback and heat loss analysis, the mass loss rate for thin fuel layer combustion was calculated and verified to be about 0.013 kg/(m2‧s). Then, a multi-layer inclined cuboid flame model was established. Compared with the classical point source model and the cuboid flame model, the new model has better accuracy in predicting the external radiation of the combustion of thin-layer fuel. We hope to gain insights into the dynamics of such fires to inform fire prevention and control in initial spill scenarios. • The variation of thin-layer fuel flame shape with height was characterized. • Burning rate model for pool fires was not applicable to thin-layer fuel combustion. • The constant mass loss rate was verified based on heat transfer calculations. • A multi-layer cuboid flame model was developed to calculate the external radiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study delved into the integration of biomass gas and natural gas within a Combined Cooling, Heating, and Power (CCHP) system. A Semi-Isolated Green Energy CCHP (SIGE-CCHP) model was devised to scrutinize the performance of co-firing equipment across diverse optimization objectives, while manipulating the proportions of natural gas and biomass gas as inputs. Findings revealed that escalating the share of biomass gas led to a reduction in carbon emissions but triggered an escalation in operational and maintenance costs. However, at an optimal mixing ratio of 1:1, carbon emissions exhibited marginal increments, coupled with a substantial decrease in operational and maintenance expenses. Notably, when prioritizing operational and maintenance costs, the system exhibited optimal performance, resulting in a notable 26.76 % cost reduction. Conversely, when prioritizing carbon emissions, the system metamorphosed into a carbon sequestration entity, with a maximal capacity to absorb 2021.86 kg of carbon dioxide. This study furnishes theoretical underpinnings for optimizing the operation of co-firing equipment, augmented by a sensitivity analysis aimed at intuitively elucidating the repercussions of varying mixing ratios on the system. • Created a model for SIGE-CCHP to investigate the co-firing of biomass and natural gas at uncertain ratios. • Found that higher biomass gas ratios effectively lower carbon emissions in CCHP systems. • Identified a 1:1 biomass to natural gas ratio as optimal for balancing emissions and operational costs. • Achieved substantial cost savings in operation and maintenance, peaking at a 26.76 % reduction. • Presented the CCHP system's potential as a carbon sink, with a high carbon dioxide absorption capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trombe wall is an efficient passive solar heating system, while the utilization form of heated air needs to be expanded. Indoor microorganisms that can be transmitted through aerosol endanger the safety of human health. The fact that microorganisms can be thermally inactivated makes it possible to disinfect the air through Trombe wall. To expand and enhance the disinfection effect of the wall, extending the residence time of bioaerosols in the flow channel and raising the air temperature can be applied. Therefore, a transverse-finned-Trombe wall is proposed. Multiple physical field coupling is studied numerically. Migration, inactivation, and deposition of bioaerosols are described by Eulerian method. The results indicated as follows: As fin height increases, the thermal efficiency first rises and then drops; the single-pass inactivation ratio rises remarkably with its value reaching 90.96 % and 66.98 % for SARS-CoV-1 and SARS-CoV-2 even at low irradiance level (400 W/m2) at a fin height of 35 mm. As fin angle increases from −45° to +45°, the thermal efficiency drops first and then rises. Optimal disinfection performance is achieved at α = 0°. The contribution of deposition to removal of infectious bioaerosols plays a significant role when the thermal inactivation is not strong. • A novel disinfection-enhanced type Trombe wall with fins was proposed. • Multiple physical fields coupling was studied. • Impact of fin geometric on TFTW system performances was evaluated. • TFTW system performs significantly better than traditional Trombe wall in air disinfection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Loop heat pipe photovoltaic thermal proton exchange membrane system is developed. • Hybrid system shows 6.31 % more production rate as compared to conventional system. • Temperature and current directly impact internal potential drops of electrolyzer. • Hybrid system is more economical in longer span of time. A novel hybrid system was proposed to produce hydrogen, oxygen, electricity and heat by integrating proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzer and loop heat pipe-photovoltaic thermal (LHP-PV/T) in this study. Proposed hybrid system was compared with conventional system (direct grid connected PEM electrolyzer) for efficiency and performance evaluation. This paper also focuses on the factors effecting production of oxygen and hydrogen and internal voltage drops in the PEM electrolyzer in both systems. The factors effecting the production of electricity, heat LHP-PV/T system were also studied. Based on energy balance equations, the detailed mathematical and simulation model was developed in MATLAB. Results show that increasing the current density and operating water temperature, the internal potential drops of electrolyzer and production rate of hydrogen and oxygen increases. Conventional system was the direct grid connected system and assumed to operate under same conditions as the hybrid system. When the water temperature increased from 20 °C to 38.5 °C, the production rate of hydrogen and oxygen increased from 11.33 ml/min and 22.43 ml/min to 11.92 ml/min and 23.85 ml/min respectively. Hybrid system shows 6.31 % higher production rate of hydrogen and oxygen as compared to conventional system. The new model also addresses some key problems found in previous models and gives more stable solution for operating the system efficiently in the dark or lower solar radiation. Moreover, the economic analysis estimates the hybrid model to be more cost effective in the longer run. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human health is adversely impacted by indoor formaldehyde. Given that buildings with conventional PV-DSVs fail to improve indoor air quality in the indoor or outdoor air circulation mode without any air handling devices. To remove indoor formaldehyde, a thermal-catalytic CdTe PV double-skin ventilated window is proposed. A corresponding mathematical model was established and validated against experiment data. Based on the validated model, the thermal, electrical, daylighting, and formaldehyde degradation performances were investigated and compared with a conventional PV-DSV (PV-CDSV). Additionally, parametric analysis was conducted to analyse impacts of four factors, including the area of catalytic coating, the window-to-wall ratio, outdoor solar radiation, and ambient temperature, on the energy performance of the proposed window. Main results are: (1) The proposed window had a higher power output but a bit lower thermal efficiency than PV-CDSV, and it had a higher η t o t a l in winter, which reached 35.35 % and was 31.45 % higher than that of the PV-CDSV. (2) The net energy consumption of PV-TCDSV increased by 6.59 % and 6.26 % compared with PV-CDSV in winter and summer, respectively. (3) Among the four influencing factors, the solar radiation and ambient temperature had strong impacts on the effectiveness of formaldehyde degradation. • A thermal-catalytic PV double-skin ventilated window was proposed. • Corresponding mathematical models were developed and validated. • The comprehensive performance was studied and compared. • The impacts of four parameters were analyzed and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many thermal resources are not reasonably used in the chemical industry's production process. To recover the waste heat from organic waste residue-calcium carbonate (CaCO3), which is added to inhibit hydrogen production, an organic Rankine cycle (ORC) system is applied in this research. An ORC system can reuse the low-temperature waste heat that is not fully utilized. In this study, the mathematical model of the biomass ORC power generation system is constructed. Five organic working fluids, R11, R113, R123, R141b, and R245fa, were selected from the physical characteristics and safety of working fluids. The system application case is the low-temperature heat absorption in a chemical industry's production process. The system is simulated by Aspen Plus V11 software, so as to study and analyze the influence of different working fluids and working conditions on the system performance and to obtain the preferred working fluids under different working conditions. At the same time, the economic evaluation and entropy method of the system are evaluated by using the investment profit rate PRI from different angles. It can be found that R11 and R141b have advantages, but R11 does not have advantages in environmental aspects. Through research, it is found that it is difficult to have a working fluid that can adapt to the biomass ORC power generation system under any working conditions. This paper can provide a basis for the subsequent research and selection of working fluids in the biomass ORC system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve space/energy utilization and meet various households' needs, a high efficient and multifunction concentrated solar-air heat pump system(MC-SA-HP) is proposed in this paper. The concentrator is used to lift the energy density and unit generation of photovoltaic panel, and its three-dimensional feature could realize the layered utilization of space by placing the air source evaporator in the spare part below. By different operating strategies, the system could provide heating, electricity, and cooling. Through testing, MC-SA-HP obtained mean electrical generation and efficiency of 146W and 14.6%, condensing heat of 2114W, COP th and COP PVT of 3.7 and 4.4. Compared with the system using flat-panel photovoltaic, it could improve the electrical generation by 71.8%, heating capacity by 5.9%, total output by 12.6%, overall efficiency of 9.5%, COP PVT by 7.3%, and exergy efficiency of 36.1%. In the cooling mode during experiment, the water temperature drops from 14.6 to 2.6 °C, generating 1.51 × 107 J cooling capacity, and an average COP c of 2.3. The multifunction feature increases the attractiveness and feasibility of this novel system. After calculation, the high-efficient and compact MC-SA-HP system shows great effect on cost and emission reduction, which could help to better cope with climate change and achieve the goal of carbon peak and carbon neutrality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The human body has more than 600 kinds of skeletal muscles, which accounts for about 40% of the whole weight. Most skeletal muscles can make bones move, and their strength and endurance directly affect their performance during exercise. Methods. To determine the effects of exercise and time on human skeletal muscle, we downloaded the microarray expression profile of GSE1832 and analyzed it to select differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Then, a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was established, and the hub genes were identified. Afterwards, DEGs were applied to perform Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis. Finally, with the help of Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA), the gene sets in the 7 samples were enriched in the KEGG pathway. Results. Through a series of bioinformatics analyses, we obtained a total of 271 DEGs. After that, four hub genes were determined through the PPI network, namely, EP300, STAT1, CDKN1A, and RAC2. In addition, we got that these DEGs were enriched in GO, such as regulation of cell population proliferation, cellular water homeostasis, and so on, and in KEGG, namely, hepatitis B, Epstein–Barr virus infection, small cell lung cancer, pathways in cancer, and others. Finally, the gene set in the samples obtained by GSEA was enriched in the cell cycle, chemokine signaling pathway, DNA replication, cytokine receptor interaction, ECM receptor interaction, and focal adhesion in KEGG. Conclusion. The findings obtained in this study will provide new clues for elucidating the mechanism of exercise and time on human skeletal muscles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The geometrical structure, electronic and magnetic properties of B-endoped C60 (B@C60) ligand sandwich clusters, TM&(B@C60)2 (TM = V, Cr), and their one-dimensional (1D) infinite molecular wires, [TM&(B@C60)]∞, have been systematically studied using first-principles calculations. The calculations showed that the TM atoms can bond strongly to the pentagonal (η5-coordinated) or hexagonal rings (η6-coordinated) of the endoped C60 ligands, with binding energies ranging from 1.90 to 3.81 eV. Compared to the configurations with contrast-bonding characters, the η6- and η5-coordinated bonding is energetically more favorable for V-(B@C60) and Cr-(B@C60) complexes, respectively. Interestingly, 1D infinite molecular wire [V&(B@C60)-η6]∞ is an antiferromagnetic half-metal, and 1D [Cr&(B@C60)-η5]∞ molecular wire is a ferromagnetic metal. The tunable electronic and magnetic properties of 1D [TM&(B@C60)]∞ SMWs are found under compressive and tensile stains. These findings provide additional possibilities for the application of C60-based sandwich compounds in electronic and spintronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Departing from the weak solution, we prove the uniqueness and long-time behavior of the weak solution to the non-cutoff spatially homogeneous Boltzmann equation with moderate soft potentials. The ingredients of the proof lie in the development of the localized techniques in phase and frequency spaces and entropy methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current research on individual risks mainly focuses on the individual risk considering a single fire or the spatial distribution of multiple fires. It is more realistic to study spatial and temporal variations of individual risks. Based on the probit model, an improved approach is presented to assess the spatial and temporal variations of individual risks considering synergistic effects of multiple fires occurred sequentially. Firstly, the evolution sequence of multiple fires is estimated based on the probit model and the dynamic heat radiation distribution is calculated based on the Mudan model. Then, the critical heat radiation dose thresholds of different casualty levels are acquired based on literature data and the probit model which is applied to evaluate the relationship between heat radiation and the casualty level. Finally, the critical casualty time is proposed to reflect the temporal and spatial variations of individual risks. The dynamic individual risks of different escape strategies are assessed to assist in choosing the optimum escape plan. Furthermore, the critical safety escape distance is presented as a warning to provide a reference for the closest distance from firefighters to the center of the fire source. In the case study of multiple fires occurred sequentially in a storage tank farm, the critical casualty times of different casualty levels, the dynamic individual risk during the escape of a person, and the critical safe escape distance are estimated. Due to the low computational load, this approach can also assist in emergency decision-making at the fire accident site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the efficacy and safety of transcatheter arterial chemoembolization combined with microwave ablation (TACE-MWA) versus TACE alone for the treatment of recurrent small hepatocellular carcinoma (sHCC) after resection.Materials and Methods: From June 2015 to January 2020, a total of 45 patients with recurrent sHCC (size ≤ 3 cm) treated by TACE-MWA or TACE were included in this study. The radiological response at 1-, 3-, 6-month after initial treatment [modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (mRECIST)], progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and complications were evaluated.Results: The TACE-MWA group showed better 1-, 3-, 6-month tumor response rates than TACE group. The corresponding 1-, 3-, and 5-year PFS rates were 76.5%, 70.6%, and 70.6% for the TACE-MWA group, and 56.1%, 15.0%, and 15.0% for the TACE group (P = 0.003). The 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS rates were 100.0%, 82.1%, and 61.5% for the TACE-MWA group, and 89.0%, 58.1%, and 50.8% for the TACE group (P = 0.389), respectively. Moreover, no major complications related to treatment were observed in either of the groups. Compared with the TACE group, the TACE-MWA group had a significantly lower number of re-TACE sessions (P = 0.003).Conclusions: Although TACE alone provides equivalent effectiveness for recurrent sHCC in terms of OS rates, TACE-MWA had better 1-, 3-, 6-month tumor response rates and may prolong tumor PFS time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vasodilation is one of the main means to treat cardiovascular diseases, such as heart failure, cardiogenic shock and severe hypertension.1 Although blocking voltage-gated calcium channels with specific antagonists stands as an optimal therapeutic strategy,2 targeting Ca SP 2+ sp /calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) may also be a suitable approach, as this enzyme also plays an important role in the regulation of Ca SP 2+ sp -related physiological functions3,4 and cardiovascular diseases.5,6 Herein, we reveal a novel mechanism of CaMKII covalent inhibition by one kind of the phthalides present in Suxiao Jiuxin pills (SX), a traditional Chinese medicine frequently used for the treatment of cardiovascular disease. (D) Lig regulated the vasodilation of isolated rat thoracic aorta in a vasodilatory effect test. (E) Lig attenuated KCl-induced phosphorylation of CaMKII and MLC in isolated rat thoracic aorta. In addition, an experiment with KCl-induced isolated rat thoracic aortic ring indicated that Lig exerts a dramatic vasodilatory effect by inhibiting CaMKII autophosphorylation and its downstream myosin light chain phosphorylation (Figures 4D,E, S17). [Extracted from the article]

• The earliest sign of glaucoma is a diffuse loss of visual sensitivity. • The synaptic mechanisms underlying such sensitivity loss are largely unknown. • AIIAC circuitry mediates H-IOP induced sensitivity loss in sONαGCs and sOFFαGCs. • H-IOP affects AIIAC circuitry via pressure-sensitive BK channels in A17ACs. • H-IOP induced ganglion cell sensitivity loss is circuitry-specific. • Our results help to design effective early glaucoma detection and treatment. Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness worldwide and glaucoma patients exhibit an early diffuse loss of retinal sensitivity followed by focal loss of RGCs. Combining some previous published results and some new data, this paper provides our current view on how high IOP (H-IOP) affects the light response sensitivity of a subset of RGCs, the alpha-ganglion cells (αGCs), as well as their presynaptic bipolar cells (DBCs and HBCs) and A2 amacrine cells (AIIACs) in dark-adapted mouse retinas. Our data demonstrate that H-IOP in experimental glaucoma mice significantly decreases light-evoked spike response sensitivity of sONαGCs and sOFFαGCs (i.e., raises thresholds by 1.5–2.5 log units), but not that of the tONαGCs and tOFFαGCs. The sensitivity loss in sONαGCs and sOFFαGCs is mediated by a H-IOP induced suppression of AIIAC response which is caused by a decrease of transmission efficacy of the DBC R →AIIAC synapse. We also provide evidence supporting the hypothesis that BK channels in the A17AC→DBC R feedback synapse are the H-IOP sensor that regulates the DBC R →AIIAC synaptic efficacy, as BK channel blocker IBTX mimics the action of H-IOP. Our results provide useful information for designing strategies for early detection and possible treatments of glaucoma as physiological changes occur before irreversible structural damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to study the smoke spread and temperature distribution inside a full-scale room-corridor structure building. A series of experiments and simulations with different fuel properties and fuel configurations (crib and pool fires) were carried out. There was a barrier at the top of the left end of the corridor, and the end wall was on the right side. The fire source was located in the room. The evolution of the smoke spread process, pressure distribution, and temperature distribution in rooms and corridors were obtained and analyzed. The results indicate that the barrier and the end wall hinder the smoke spread and make it to accumulate below the corridor ceiling. This causes the smoke layer height of the corridor to be lower than the top of the door, which changes the pressure distribution inside and outside the room and also affects the temperature distribution. Based on the changes of pressure distribution, some correction formulas for the gas flow rate and mass flux at the opening are proposed. Under the effect of the barrier and the end wall, the smoke temperature in the room and the corridor increases. A smoke temperature decaying model along the corridor direction is proposed. Some methods are used and compared to calculate the smoke layer height based on the vertical temperature distribution. The smoke layer height determined by the buoyancy frequency method is most consistent with the experimental observation values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate the effect of compatibilization methods on the compatibility between asphalt and direct coal liquefaction residue (DCLR) components to identify the key components in DCLR and asphalt that affect their compatibility. In this article, three types of compatibilizers, including benzyl alcohol (BA), dioctyl phthalate (DOP), and BA/DOP, were selected and acted on asphalt's components and DCLR's components, respectively. The molecular models of asphalt components, asphalt components with compatibilizers, DCLR components, and DCLR components with compatibilizers were established. The compatibility between DCLR and asphalt's four components, as well as between asphalt and DCLR's three components, were evaluated by solubility parameter difference (SPD) and interaction energy (IE). The compatibility between DCLR and asphalt was analyzed by Segregation test and Scanning Electron Microscope. Results indicate that the SPD and IE values between DCLR and asphalt components declined after adding compatibilizers, which implies that the repulsion decreased and the attraction increased between asphalt components and DCLR and the compatibility between asphalt components and DCLR improved. The IE values between DCLR components and asphalt increased after adding compatibilizers, which indicates that the compatibility was reduced between DCLR components and asphalt. The SPD values between DCLR components and asphalt increased after adding the BA/DOP. The SPD values between pre-asphaltene and asphalt decreased after adding the BA and DOP. The SPD value between asphaltene in DCLR and asphalt increased after adding the BA and decreased after adding the DOP. Moreover, the storage stability and homogeneity of DCLR-modified asphalt improved after adding compatibilizers, indicating that the compatibilizers enhanced compatibility between DCLR and asphalt. Finally, comparing the results of the tests, it could be found that compatibilizers preferentially acted on the asphalt components and mainly affected the aromatics in asphalt, thereby improving the compatibility between asphalt and DCLR. The effect of BA/DOP on improving the compatibility between asphalt and DCLR was better than that of BA and DOP. • The compatibility between DCLR and asphalt with four/three components was studied by SPD and IE. • Compatibilizers preferentially act on the aromatics in asphalt components. • BA/DOP is better than BA and DOP for improving the compatibility between DCLR and asphalt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Driven by the single function and poor thermal performance of traditional building windows, a novel CdTe multi-layer ventilated window integrated with a middle PCM layer is proposed in this paper. Comparative study is conducted between this novel system and another CdTe ventilated window without the PCM layer. Mathematical model of the system is established and validated. Comparison case study is performed under two groups of typical winter and summer days in Hefei. Parameter analyses are conducted and annual performance comparisons are investigated under the typical meteorological year of Hefei. Main results are: (1) Electrical performance of the PV window system was enhanced and indoor thermal comfort was improved due to the utilization of PCM; (2) T a m b and G s o l a r are respectively the most influential weather factors on thermal and electrical performance. Properly decreasing the channel height and increasing the PCM thickness can improve the comprehensive performance; (3) Annual E p v of the two window systems are 171.16 kWh and 169.55 kWh. Building with the novel window system could achieve a better indoor thermal comfort for the whole year. Annual indoor air-conditioning load is reduced by 1246.87 kWh and the energy-saving potential of this newly proposed CdTe PV ventilated window system is proved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The condensers of loop thermosyphon PV/T systems (LT-PV/T) are usually integrated inside water tanks, which may bring some challenges during combination use. This research innovatively proposed a concentric copper tube heat exchanger as the condenser, which is combined with a copper tube evaporator beneath the absorber. The gaseous working fluid flows in the inner tube and the cooling water flows in the outer tube. Since ordinary water pipes are used for water circulating between the outer tube and water tank, this LT-PV/T collector can be used individually or combined with other collectors flexibly. To access its' performance, researches have been conducted: (1) Designing and fabricating the system prototypes; (2) Investigating system performance with different volume-filling ratios (26.5%, 34.8%, 43.2%); (3) Investigating the influences of working fluid (water, ethanol and R134A). (4) Evaluating the systems' performance with energy efficiency, exergy efficiency, and semi-empirical system efficiency models; (5) Conducting two case studies in South China (an individual collector & a 4 parallelly/serially-combined LT-PV/T collectors system). The system is first-of-its-kind and has obvious advantages in reliability, flexibility, space-saving and large-scale applications. The typical primary energy-saving efficiency of the LT-PV/T with R134a of 40% filling ratio can reach 78.0%, higher than the published LT-PV/T systems. 1. A novel concentric copper tube heat exchanger is used as the condenser of LT-PV/T. 2. It has obvious advantages in reliability, flexibility, and large-scale applications. 3. The prototypes of the heat exchanger and LT-PV/T are designed and fabricated. 4. System performance with several filling ratios and working fluid are explored. 5. Case studies for its independently/combined utilization in South China are conducted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between impedance matching conditions, complex electromagnetic (EM) parameters, and EM wave absorption performances of iron nanochains and two kinds of Fe-CNT composites (the mass ratio of Fe to CNTs is 1.4:1 and 10:1, respectively) has been investigated by mathematical and statistical methods. A new direction for research on EM wave absorption mechanisms was provided. It is found that the impedance matching condition is the main factor affecting the absorption performances of the three materials when the thickness is less than 2.5 mm, and it is positively correlated with the absorption performance. When the thickness of the material is greater than 2.5 mm, a better impedance matching condition cannot guarantee good EM wave absorption performances. Instead, the real parts of complex permeability and permittivity play a dominant role, and the larger the real parts are, the better the EM wave absorption performance is. At the same time, it shows that when the thickness of the material is higher than 2.55 mm, it requires a strong energy storage capacity to achieve good absorption performance. The coefficient of variation of complex EM parameters at all frequencies observed can also affect the absorbing performance from the perspective of mathematical statistics. When the thickness is less than 2.5 mm, the smaller coefficient of variation of complex permittivity's real parts and the bigger coefficient of variation of complex permeability's imaginary parts, the better the absorbing performance of the material. If the modulus of the complex electromagnetic parameter is large, the absorbing performances of the material tend to be weak at all thicknesses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to the inherent nature of the fluid that can naturally avoid obstacles, a path planning method for active collision avoidance of autonomous vehicles is presented based on the virtual flow field. Firstly, the mathematical model of the virtual flow field on the road is established by using the theory of hydrodynamics. Then a fifth degree polynomial curve is adopted to construct the virtual hazard area of the obstacle vehicle to prevent the fluid into this area, and it can be easily resized by adjusting the parameters of the lateral and longitudinal safety distance. Finally, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations are performed to quantitative predict the dynamic behavior of the ego vehicle on the straight or curved road and the desired path for active collision avoidance can be determined based on the calculation result of the flow field. The simulation results show that the proposed path planning method takes into account the dynamic characteristics and kinematic constraints of the vehicle, and ensures that the vehicle doesn't collide with the dynamic and static obstacles on the road. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most prevalent malignant tumours that threatens women health worldwide. It has been reported that circular RNAs (circRNAs) play an important role in regulating tumour progression and tumour microenvironment (TME) remodelling. Methods: Differentially expression characteristics and immune correlations of circRNAs in BC were verified using high‐throughput sequencing and bioinformatic analysis. Exosomes were characterised by nanoparticle transmission electron microscopy and tracking analysis. The biological function of circ‐0100519 in BC development was demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo. Western blotting, RNA pull‐down, RNA immunoprecipitation, flow cytometry, and luciferase reporter were conducted to investigate the underlying mechanism. Results: Circ‐0100519 was significant abundant in BC tumour tissues and related to poor prognosis. It can be encapsulated into secreted exosomes, thereby promoting BC cell invasion and metastasis via inducing M2‐like macrophages polarisation.Mechanistically, circ‐0100519 acted as a scaffold to enhance the interaction between the deubiquitinating enzyme ubiquitin‐specific protease 7 (USP7) and nuclear factor‐like 2 (NRF2) in macrophages, inducing the USP7‐mediated deubiquitination of NRF2. Additionally, HIF‐1α could function as an upstream effector to enhance circ‐0100519 transcription. Conclusions: Our study revealed that exosomal circ‐0100519 is a potential biomarker for BC diagnosis and prognosis, and the HIF‐1α inhibitor PX‐478 may provide a therapeutic target for BC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a novel multichromic cationic coordination polymer, named [Zn4(BTC)3(bcbpy)2]·5H2O (1), based on a new flexible viologen ligand 1,1′-bis(3-cyanobenzyl)-[4,4′-bipyridine]-1,1′-diium (H2bcbpy·2Cl), Zn(NO3)2·6H2O and pyromellitic acid (H4BTC) was synthesized. Compound 1 has good photosensitive activity and can respond to sunlight at room temperature. The colour of compound 1 changes rapidly in response to UV light and blue ray irradiation within 5 s. We rarely obtained the crystal structures after irradiation under UV light and blue ray. At the same time, compound 1 shows the hydrochromism phenomenon when heated at 120 °C, and it also shows the ability of detecting aniline and NO2− under low-concentration conditions (10−4 M). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to satisfy seasonal energy demand in both daytime and nighttime for the building, a hybrid PV/T solar wall system is proposed for area with four distinct seasons. Three different modes are introduced for summer, winter and transition season respectively. Not only are electricity and hot water (or air) generated to reduce building's energy load in the daytime, cooling load in summer and heating load in other seasons are decreased during the nighttime. Continuous full-day experiments are conducted in three seasons. In transition season, electrical and thermal efficiencies are 11.6% and 55% respectively; temperature of experimental room is 0.6 °C lower and 0.8 °C higher than reference room in the daytime and nighttime respectively; cooling load in the daytime and heating load in the nighttime are both decreased. In winter, electrical efficiency is 12.3%; room air temperature is 10.8 °C and 1.4 °C higher than reference room in the daytime and nighttime respectively; full-day space heating is achieved. In summer, the electrical and thermal efficiencies are 10.2% and 57.3% respectively; room air temperature is 1.2 °C and 0.5 °C lower than reference room in the daytime and nighttime respectively, full-day cooling load is decreased. • A hybrid BIPV/T system with double air channel and PCM is introduced. • Seasonal energy demand of building both in day and night are satisfied. • Room temperature is 0.6 °C lower/0.7 °C higher in day/night than reference room in transition. • Room temperature is 10.8 °C higher/1.4 °C higher in day/night than reference room in winter. • Room temperature is 1.2 °C lower/0.5 °C lower in day/night than reference room in summer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The CdTe-PV/T system has a low power temperature coefficient and high PV efficiency. • CdTe-PV/T is experimentally investigated and compared with Poly-Si-PV/T system. • The influence of cell coverage ratios is experimentally investigated. • A new quasi-steady-state mathematical model is established and verified. • Parametric and structural discussions are performed to optimize the system. In flat-plate PV/T systems, there are some contradictions in the temperature requirements for the heat and electricity acquisition. The widely-used crystalline-silicon solar cells are negatively affected by the high temperature inside the PV/T collector. This paper proposes to use temperature-insensitive solar cells in PV/T and the CdTe used has the advantages of low power temperature coefficient, high photovoltaic efficiency, and low costs. Besides, the sandwich structure that CdTe cells are sealed between two pieces of glass can prevent them from the permeating of moist air. The CdTe-PV/T is experimentally tested and compared with a Poly-Si-PV/T system and it exhibits better instantaneous electrical performance at high operating temperatures and gains more electrical energy throughout the day. Then the influence of cells' coverage ratio is investigated experimentally and the result shows that a higher coverage ratio is beneficial to the electrical and energy-saving performance. Furthermore, a new quasi-steady-state mathematical model is established and verified. Parametric discussions are conducted for performance optimization. The black TPT coating with higher emissivity performs better than the selective absorption coating of the absorbing plate, contrary to the traditional PV/T collector. The heat transfer mode between the back glass and the absorbing plate is different in different thicknesses of the air gap. Reducing the thickness can effectively improve the system's performance in terms of thermal, electrical, and temperature. Then an improved CdTe-PV/T eliminating the backglass and air gap is proposed and numerically simulated. This research hopes to provide some ideas for the applicant and the optimization of CdTe-PV/T in hot climates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]