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Based on affordance theory, this study proposes the attributes of live streaming tourism (enjoyment, escapism, social presence, synchronism, self-presentation, social interaction, and utility) and examines their impacts on consumers' attitudes and behavioral intentions concerning tourism destinations. In this study, data were collected from 985 respondents to cross-validate the proposed theoretical model using three distinct approaches: an experimental design, a cross-sectional survey on memory recall experiences, and cross-cultural (US vs. Chinese) sample comparisons. Multi-group PLS-SEM results indicated that Chinese tourists emphasized social presence in live streaming tourism, whereas US tourists ascribed more value to synchronism in live streaming tourism than their Chinese counterparts. Self-presentation and utility were two robust factors in live streaming tourism that influenced tourists' visiting intentions. In the recollection of live streaming tourism experiences, self-presentation, synchronicity, and utility were critical factors that led to positive outcomes for tourism destinations. However, in the study's experiments, escape, self-presentation, and social plkkresence were the most important factors that affected tourists' behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The ubiquitously expressed transmembrane protein, Herpesvirus Entry Mediator (HVEM), functions as a molecular switch, capable of both activating and inhibiting the immune response depending on its interacting ligands. HVEM-Fc is a novel recombinant fusion protein with the potential to eradicate tumor cells. Methods: The anti-tumor efficacy of HVEM-Fc was evaluated in C57BL/6 mice-bearing lung cancer models: a syngeneic model and an orthotopic model of mouse lung cancer. Additionally, patient-derived organoids were employed in conjunction with T cell co-culture systems. To investigate the underlying mechanisms, a comprehensive array of techniques was utilized, including single-cell RNA sequencing, spatial transcriptomics, bulk RNA sequencing, and flow cytometry. Furthermore, the anti-tumor effects of HVEM-Fc in combination with Programmed Death-1 (PD-1) inhibitors were assessed. Finally, mouse immune cell depletion antibodies were used to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action. Results: In vivo, 1 mg/kg HVEM-Fc demonstrated effective inhibition of tumor growth and metastasis in C57BL/6 mice bearing lung cancer model and a KP orthotopic model of mouse lung cancer. Multi-omics analysis showed that HVEM-Fc induced an immune-stimulatory microenvironment. Notably, the combination of HVEM-Fc with a PD-1 inhibitor demonstrated the most potent inhibition of tumor cell growth. In vitro, HVEM-Fc was validated to eradicate tumor cells through the activation of T cells in both non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) organoids and T cell co-culture models. Conclusions: Our data demonstrate that HVEM-Fc exerts a strong signal that augments and prolongs T-cell activity in both murine models and human NSCLC organoid models. Moreover, the combination of HVEM-Fc with a PD-1 inhibitor yields the most effective anti-tumor outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing lead zirconate titanate (PZT)-based electro-optic (EO) modulators is vital for integrated photonics. The high annealing temperature required for the processing of PZT thin films restricts their compatibility with modern complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) technology. In this work, high-quality PZT films were fabricated on SiO2/Si substrates at a low annealing temperature of 450 °C. The PZT films demonstrated a preferential (100) orientation and were uniform and crack-free. Based on the low-temperature PZT films, we subsequently designed and fabricated a Mach–Zehnder Interferometer (MZI) waveguide modulator. The measured half-wave voltage (Vπ) was 4.8 V at a wavelength of 1550 nm, corresponding to an in-device EO coefficient as high as 66 pm/V, which shows potential use in optical devices. The results reported in this work show great promise for the integration of PZT thin films with other complex systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A universal and green catalytic system for the hydrogenation of unsaturated aldehydes and ketones into the corresponding alcohols with the C＝C bonds retained under atmospheric hydrogen pressure in the water phase was realized by N-functionalized amino ligand-stabilized ruthenium complexes (o-PPh2C6H4NHMe)[(CH2NHR)2]RuCl2 (R = H, Me, Et) and (o-PPh2C6H4NMe2)[(CH2NHEt)2]RuCl2 with wide substrate compatibility and excellent functionality tolerance. The structural synergism between o-PPh2C6H4NHMe and (CH2NHEt)2 achieves the enhanced performance, with a positive correlation with the electron density of the amino ligand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Owing to their vulnerability to public health crises, adolescents' mental health status, and related risk factors in the post-pandemic era in China require examination. This study aimed to lay a foundation for subsequent interventions and mental disorder prevention among adolescents. Methods: An anonymous online survey was conducted January 8–18, 2023. The survey comprised two parts. The first part collected personal information. The second part included the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire, seven-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Results: Of 50,666 adolescent participants, 46.8% displayed depressive symptoms, 31.5% showed anxiety symptoms, and 47.9% experienced difficulties initiating sleep within 30 min, while 4.9% manifested depressive, anxiety, and insomnia symptoms simultaneously. Chi-square tests revealed significant variations in the prevalence of these conditions according to age, sex, coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) infection status, family infection status, and increased screen time (P < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis indicated heightened rates of depression, anxiety, and insomnia symptoms among rural adolescents, females, those aged 16–18 years, individuals with a history of COVID-19, those with a long COVID-19 illness, and those with increased screen time (all P < 0.001). Conclusion: The mental health status of adolescents in the post-pandemic era should be taken seriously, particularly that of females, high school students, and adolescents with increased use of electronic screens. Among such efforts, school administrators should strengthen their connection with psychologists, as early identification and intervention in adolescents are important for preventing school crises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A chance-constrained energy dispatch model based on the distributed stochastic model predictive control (DSMPC) approach for an islanded multi-microgrid system is proposed. An ambiguity set considering the inherent uncertainties of renewable energy sources (RESs) is constructed without requiring the full distribution knowledge of the uncertainties. The power balance chance constraint is reformulated within the framework of the distributionally robust optimization (DRO) approach. With the exchange of information and energy flow, each microgrid can achieve its local supply-demand balance. Furthermore, the closed-loop stability and recursive feasibility of the proposed algorithm are proved. The comparative results with other DSMPC methods show that a trade-off between robustness and economy can be achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article studies the guaranteed cost extended dissipative stabilization problem of switched IT2 fuzzy systems (SIT2FSs) with switching signal transmission delays and local nonlinear model. The guaranteed cost H∞$$ {H}_{\infty } $$ performance, guaranteed cost strict dissipative performance, guaranteed cost L2$$ {L}_2 $$ − L∞$$ {L}_{\infty } $$ performance and guaranteed cost passivity performance are considered for SIT2FSs in a unified form. First, a novel asynchronous control scheme is proposed for SIT2FSs with local nonlinear model. The controller gains in mismatched interval are designed separately. By using a premise‐variable‐domain‐partition‐dependent switched fuzzy Lyapunov functions (PDSFLFs) approach, the membership‐function‐shape‐independent (MFSI) existence conditions of a class of IT2 fuzzy switched controllers, which can ensure the guaranteed cost extended dissipative performance of SIT2FSs, are established. Then, by utilizing the shape information of membership functions and dividing the premise variable domain into multiple partitions, the membership‐function‐shape‐dependent (MFSD) existence conditions of a class of premise‐variable‐domain‐partition‐dependent (PVDPD) IT2 fuzzy switched controllers are presented. The results indicate that less conservative results can be achieved by using the PVDPD IT2 fuzzy switched controllers, and better system performance can be gotten compared with the Type‐1 fuzzy switched controllers. Finally, the effectiveness of the results is demonstrated through a robot arm model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To address the anisotropy of mechanical properties and the challenge of removing support materials in lattice structures fabricated using fused deposition modeling (FDM), this study is inspired by traditional woodworking mortise and tenon joints. A hexagonal interlocking mortise lattice structure was designed, and mortise and tenon lattice structures (MTLSs) with various parameters were fabricated. Compared with the traditional integrated forming lattice structure (IFLS), the MTLS exhibits maximum reductions in side surface roughness (Ra), printing time, and material consumption of 74.87%, 25.55%, and 52.21%, respectively. In addition to enhancing surface quality and printing efficiency, the MTLS also exhibited superior mechanical properties. The uniaxial compression test results show that the specific strength, energy absorption (EA), and specific energy absorption (SEA) of the MTLS exhibit maximum increases of 51.22%, 894.59%, and 888.39%, respectively, compared with the IFLS. Moreover, the effects of strut angle and thickness on the lattice structure were analyzed. Smaller strut angles and larger strut thicknesses endowed greater strength, while smaller angles contributed to higher energy absorption. This study proposes a novel approach for designing lattice structures in additive manufacturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rainfall has been recognized as a key factor in triggering landslides. However, it is not entirely clear why many landslides have been triggered by slight-to-moderate rainfall. The Mudui landslide that occurred in Sichuan Province, China, on June 22, 2020, exemplifies the evolution of landslides induced by seasonal rainfall, which can cause substantial damage to infrastructure. This landslide was a deep-seated debris slide with a volume of approximately 0.64 million m3. It occurred in colluvial deposits, which are heterogeneous soil–rock mixtures with high permeability that easily retain water. On the basis of detailed site investigations and various monitoring data—including interferometric synthetic-aperture radar (InSAR), ground-slope and subsurface-slope deformation monitoring, and hydrogeological monitoring—we investigated the landslide-triggering mechanism along with pre- and post-landslide kinematics and assessed the effects of remedial works. The results show that both the soil water content and the slope deformations have significant seasonal characteristics. The soil water content decreases during dry seasons and increases during rainy seasons. Correspondingly, the deformation rates increase with the onset of rainy seasons and decrease with the onset of dry seasons. The landslide area underwent progressive deformations linked to groundwater seepage, inducing a continuous deterioration of the soil body. Finally, prolonged rainfall triggered the landslide of the deteriorated soil mass. The results indicate that the adverse effects of long-term seasonal soil-water-content fluctuations need to be take into account in analyzing slope instabilities in colluvial deposits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rainfall has been recognized as a key factor in triggering landslides. However, it is not entirely clear why many landslides have been triggered by slight-to-moderate rainfall. The Mudui landslide that occurred in Sichuan Province, China, on June 22, 2020, exemplifies the evolution of landslides induced by seasonal rainfall, which can cause substantial damage to infrastructure. This landslide was a deep-seated debris slide with a volume of approximately 0.64 million m3. It occurred in colluvial deposits, which are heterogeneous soil–rock mixtures with high permeability that easily retain water. On the basis of detailed site investigations and various monitoring data—including interferometric synthetic-aperture radar (InSAR), ground-slope and subsurface-slope deformation monitoring, and hydrogeological monitoring—we investigated the landslide-triggering mechanism along with pre- and post-landslide kinematics and assessed the effects of remedial works. The results show that both the soil water content and the slope deformations have significant seasonal characteristics. The soil water content decreases during dry seasons and increases during rainy seasons. Correspondingly, the deformation rates increase with the onset of rainy seasons and decrease with the onset of dry seasons. The landslide area underwent progressive deformations linked to groundwater seepage, inducing a continuous deterioration of the soil body. Finally, prolonged rainfall triggered the landslide of the deteriorated soil mass. The results indicate that the adverse effects of long-term seasonal soil-water-content fluctuations need to be take into account in analyzing slope instabilities in colluvial deposits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a malignant and life-threatening tumor with an extremely poor prognosis, posing a significant global health challenge. Despite the continuous emergence of novel therapeutic agents, patients exhibit substantial heterogeneity in their responses to anti-tumor drugs and overall prognosis. The pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) is highly activated in various tumor cells and plays a pivotal role in tumor metabolic reprogramming. This study aimed to construct a model based on PPP-related Genes for risk assessment and prognosis prediction in HCC patients. We integrated RNA-seq and microarray data from TCGA, GEO, and ICGC databases, along with single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data obtained from HCC patients via GEO. Based on the “Seurat” R package, we identified distinct gene clusters related to the PPP within the scRNA-seq data. Using a penalized Cox regression model with least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) penalties, we constructed a risk prognosis model. The validity of our risk prognosis model was further confirmed in external cohorts. Additionally, we developed a nomogram capable of accurately predicting overall survival in HCC patients. Furthermore, we explored the predictive potential of our risk model within the immune microenvironment and assessed its relevance to biological function, particularly in the context of immunotherapy. Subsequently, we performed in vitro functional validation of the key genes (ATAD2 and SPP1) in our model. A ten-gene signature associated with the PPP was formulated to enhance the prediction of HCC prognosis and anti-tumor treatment response. Following this, the ROC curve, nomogram, and calibration curve outcomes corroborated the model’s robust clinical predictive capability. Functional enrichment analysis unveiled the engagement of the immune system and notable variances in the immune infiltration landscape across the high and low-risk groups. Additionally, tumor mutation frequencies were observed to be elevated in the high-risk group. Based on our analyses, the IC50 values of most identified anticancer agents demonstrated a correlation with the RiskScore. Additionally, the high-risk and low-risk groups exhibited differential sensitivity to various drugs. Cytological experiments revealed that silencing ATAD2 or SPP1 suppresses malignant phenotypes, including viability and migration, in liver cancer cells. In this study, a novel gene signature related to the PPP was developed, demonstrating favorable predictive performance. This signature holds significant guiding value for assessing the prognosis of HCC patients and directing individualized treatment strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The β-diketiminate bonded Al(I)-compound (L)Al (L = HC{C(Me)N(Ar)}2, Ar = 2,6-iPr2C6H3) reacted with the C＝E (E = Se, Te) bonds of N-heterocyclic selenourea and tellurourea (iPrNHC＝E) to exclusively afford [(LAl(iPrNHC)＝E)] (E = Se, 1; Te, 2), respectively. Structural and spectroscopic characterizations were done, and the bonding details were experimentally and theoretically studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring perioperative tissue perfusion is crucial in clinical anesthesia to protect organs and ensure patient safety. Indicators like hemodynamic parameters, tissue metabolism, and microcirculation markers are used for assessment. Studies show intraoperative hypotension negatively impacts outcomes, though blood pressure alone may not reflect tissue perfusion accurately. Cardiac output is a more direct measure, with adequate levels generally indicating good perfusion. However, some conditions cause adequate cardiac output but inadequate perfusion. Non-quantitative markers like skin color and temperature, and quantitative indicators like tissue oxygen saturation and laser Doppler flowmetry, help assess microcirculation but can’t fully evaluate systemic perfusion. Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) monitors tissue oxygen metabolism, reflecting oxygen supply and consumption balance. Central venous oxygen saturation offers a better systemic overview but may not always indicate good perfusion, especially in sepsis. Lactic acid levels closely correlate with tissue perfusion and outcomes, with dynamic changes being more indicative than single measurements. Effective monitoring requires evaluating both macro- and microcirculation states and systemic metabolic levels to ensure optimal outcomes. Combining these measures provides a more accurate assessment of tissue perfusion and patient prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High trade costs pose substantial barriers to the process of trade liberalization. This study aims to measure trade costs and explore the driving forces behind the growth of bilateral trade between Cambodia and its top 30 trading partners from 1993 to 2019. Using a micro-founded measure of trade costs derived from the gravity model, we find that Cambodia's average trade costs decreased by 35.43 percent between 1993 and 2019. Fluctuations in average trade costs persisted until 2014, despite Cambodia's accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2004. Since then, these costs have declined more rapidly. Cambodia's bilateral trade costs are lower with its major trading partners in Southeast Asia and East Asia than with those in South Asia, Oceania, Europe, and North America. Cambodia's average trade costs with developing and emerging economies are lower than those with developed economies. Between 2014 and 2019, Cambodia experienced a notable decline in average trade costs with trading partners along the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) corridors by 34.78 percent, twice as fast as with non-BRI trading partners. Regarding the decomposition of trade growth, we find that the expansion of Cambodian trade over the period from 1993 to 2019 was driven by three factors: the rise in income (59.65 percent), the decline in trade costs (56.69 percent), and the decline in multilateral resistance (–16.34 percent). The findings of this study have significant implications for a better understanding of Cambodia's development process toward global trade integration over the past two decades. Our results suggest that Cambodia can optimize its trade expansion potential by focusing on its relations with trading partners exhibiting high economic growth potential and those showing substantial reductions in trade costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we report an optoelectronic synapse based on the Bi2O2Se/Cs3Cu2I5 heterojunction formed by consequently depositing Bi2O2Se and Cs3Cu2I5 thin films by chemical vapor deposition methods. The fabricated Au/Bi2O2Se/Cs3Cu2I5/Au devices exhibit the light-tunable photoresponse under visible light illumination. Synaptic functions including paired-pulse facilitation, the transition from short-term plasticity to long-term plasticity, associative learning and optical encoding, are conveniently reproduced on one single synaptic device by utilizing the light-tunable evolution of photocurrent. Furthermore, the front-end image preprocessing to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of image recognition was demonstrated based on the constructed device array (5 × 7). This indicates the potential application of Bi2O2Se/Cs3Cu2I5 optoelectronic synapses for the forthcoming neuromorphic computing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stereo-orientation selectivity is a fundamental neural mechanism in the brain that plays a crucial role in perception. However, due to the recognition process of high-dimensional spatial information commonly occurring in high-order cortex, we still know little about the mechanisms underlying stereo-orientation selectivity and lack a modeling strategy. A classical explanation for the mechanism of two-dimensional orientation selectivity within the primary visual cortex is based on the Hubel-Wiesel model, a cascading neural connection structure. The local-to-global information aggregation thought within the Hubel-Wiesel model not only contributed to neurophysiology but also inspired the development of computer vision fields. In this paper, we provide a clear and efficient conceptual understanding of stereo-orientation selectivity and propose a quantitative explanation for its generation based on the thought of local-to-global information aggregation within the Hubel-Wiesel model and develop an artificial visual system (AVS) for stereo-orientation recognition. Our approach involves modeling depth selective cells to receive depth information, simple stereo-orientation selective cells for combining distinct depth information inputs to generate various local stereo-orientation selectivity, and complex stereo-orientation selective cells responsible for integrating the same local information to generate global stereo-orientation selectivity. Simulation results demonstrate that our AVS is effective in stereo-orientation recognition and robust against spatial noise jitters. AVS achieved an overall over 90% accuracy on noise data in orientation recognition tasks, significantly outperforming deep models. In addition, the AVS contributes to enhancing deep models' performance, robustness, and stability in 3D object recognition tasks. Notably, AVS enhanced the TransNeXt model in improving its overall performance from 73.1% to 97.2% on the 3D-MNIST dataset and from 56.1% to 86.4% on the 3D-Fashion-MNIST dataset. Our explanation for the generation of stereo-orientation selectivity offers a reliable, explainable, and robust approach for extracting spatial features and provides a straightforward modeling method for neural computation research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial intelligence, with its remarkable adaptability, has gradually integrated into daily life. The emergence of the self-attention mechanism has propelled the Transformer architecture into diverse fields, including a role as an efficient and precise diagnostic and predictive tool in medicine. To enhance accuracy, we propose the Double-Attention (DA) method, which improves the neural network's biomimetic performance of human attention. By incorporating matrices generated from shifted images into the self-attention mechanism, the network gains the ability to preemptively acquire information from surrounding regions. Experimental results demonstrate the superior performance of our approaches across various benchmark datasets, validating their effectiveness. Furthermore, the method was applied to patient kidney datasets collected from hospitals for diabetes diagnosis, where they achieved high accuracy with significantly reduced computational demands. This advancement showcases the potential of our methods in the field of biomimetics, aligning well with the goals of developing innovative bioinspired diagnostic tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A photopromoted Pd‐catalyzed Heck reaction of gem‐difluorocyclopropyl bromides (DFCBs) with styrenes to deliver vinyl gem‐difluorinated cyclopropanes (VDFCs) under mild conditions has been developed. The reaction demonstrates good functional group compatibility while providing high E/Z ratio of the products. Furthermore, the desired VDFCs can be easily transformed into fluorinated cyclic/acyclic architectures, which may broaden its applications in organic synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four repeated ice-rock avalanches occurred in the Amney Machen Mountains between 2004 and 2019, exhibiting both spatial and temporal characteristics of a recurring disaster chain. These events serve as notable examples of large-scale ice-rock avalanche chain disasters in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Integrating multi-source data including remote sensing imaging, meteorological records, and glacier field observations, the geological and climatic characteristics of recurring ice-rock avalanches were characterized. A comprehensive study of the dynamic glacial changes in the region using multiple approaches, including offset-tracking and support vector machine classification, reveals the underlying triggering mechanisms and spatio-temporal evolution of the ice-rock avalanches. To investigate the possible impact of seismic events on the occurrence of repeated ice-rock avalanches, we performed a time-series analysis of the avalanche-prone mass to assess disaster risk. The results suggest that ice-rock avalanches in Amney Machen are caused by long-term climate warming, short-term meteorological fluctuations, glacier retreats, and patterns of ablation rather than earthquakes. Regional warming has culminated in glacier melt and de-buttressing, while freeze–thaw cycles have caused the propagation of stress crevasses and the deterioration of the ice-rock masses. Meltwater and rainfall introduce external driving forces to the ice-rock system, acting to lubricate and soften the bedrock and accelerate glacier sliding. The glacier's ablation pattern, characterized by significant thinning at its lower part and slight thinning or even localized thickening at the top, has further heightened the hazard of glacial disasters. Our findings reveal the characteristics, triggering mechanisms, and spatio-temporal evolution of typical ice-rock avalanches, providing insights for monitoring and preventing glacial disasters throughout the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional graph neural networks (GNNs) have proven effective on homogeneous graph data. However, due to the increased complexity and diversity in the structure and node features of heterogeneous graphs, existing GNNs struggle to effectively capture relationships between different node types, resulting in inefficient learning. Additionally, the semantic information in heterogeneous graphs is often underutilized, limiting their overall performance. To address these challenges, we propose the heterogeneous graph attention joint network (HGAJ) framework, which leverages graph attention neural networks to jointly learn the structure and node features of heterogeneous graphs. We introduce heterogeneous structure learning by assigning attention weights to different types of relational subgraphs, enhancing the fusion and generation of heterogeneous feature subgraphs. To further improve the performance of classification tasks, we employ a bidirectional propagation method to optimize and update parameters. Moreover, we integrate the Galactica large language model (LLM) into the HGAJ framework to utilize its semantic reasoning capabilities in scientific scenarios, assisting in relational reasoning on heterogeneous graphs. We extensively evaluate our framework on the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), Digital Bibliography & Library Project (DBLP), and Yelp datasets, demonstrating its superiority in relational reasoning on heterogeneous graph data compared to current state-of-the-art (SOTA) models. Code is available at . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microcapsule technology is a promising approach for enhancing the self-healing ability of asphalt pavements. In this study, the self-healing behavior of melamine-urea-formaldehyde (MUF) microcapsules was investigated. The microcapsules were synthesized using an in situ polymerization method. The proposed healing indicators, combined with fluorescence tracing technology, were used to evaluate the release behavior and sustained repair effect of the microcapsules at different damage levels, healing intervals, aging degrees, and healing temperatures. The results showed that most microcapsules survived at low damage levels, whereas larger microcapsules were more likely to rupture and release the rejuvenators. The sustained self-healing effect of the microcapsules could effectively repair internal damage within the asphalt pavement over an extended service life. Aged asphalt was particularly susceptible to the activation of microcapsules, leading to increased self-healing and the provision of additional rejuvenators for damaged asphalt mastic. Additionally, the self-healing of asphalt mastic with microcapsules had a critical temperature threshold. Microcapsules could enhance the fatigue and self-healing performance of asphalt mastic only when the healing temperature was below a certain value; otherwise, they may lead to adverse effects. The critical healing temperature threshold for thin-film oven testing (TFOT)-aged asphalt increased from approximately 30°C to about 45°C after PAV aging. This study provides a better understanding of the self-healing behavior of microcapsule asphalt, as well as the factors affecting the release behavior and sustained repair effects of the microcapsules. These results can be used to optimize the design and implementation of microcapsule technology to enhance the durability and sustainability of asphalt pavements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although genome-wide association studies have identified dozens of loci associated with colorectal cancer (CRC) susceptibility, the causal genes or risk variants within these loci and their biological functions often remain elusive. Recently, the genomic locus 12p13.32, with the tag single-nucleotide polymorphism rs10774214, was identified as a crucial CRC risk locus in Asian populations. However, the functional mechanism of this region has not been fully elucidated. Here, we applied a high-throughput RNA interference approach in CRC cell lines to interrogate the function of genes in this genomic region. Multiple genes were found to affect cell functions, with CCND2 having the most significant effect as an oncogene. Moreover, overexpressed CCND2 could promote CRC cell proliferation. Subsequently, by integrating a fine-mapping analysis and multi-ancestry large-scale population cohorts consisting of 14 358 CRC cases and 34 251 healthy controls, we identified a regulatory variant rs4477507-T that contributed to an increased CRC risk in populations from China (odds ratio = 1.16, 95% confidence interval = 1.11–1.22, P  = 4.45 × 10−10) and Europe (odds ratio = 1.17, 95% confidence interval = 1.12–1.21, P  = 1.65 × 10−14). Functional characterization of the variant demonstrated that it could act as an allele-specific enhancer to distally facilitate the expression of CCND2 mediated by the transcription factor TEAD4. Overall, our study underscores the essential role of CCND2 in CRC development and delineates its regulatory mechanism mediated by rs4477507, establishing an epidemiological and biological link between genetic variation and CRC pathogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The convolutional neural network (CNN) was initially inspired by the physiological visual system, and its structure has become increasingly complex after decades of development. Although CNN architectures now have diverged from biological structures, we believe that the mechanism of feature extraction in the visual system can still provide valuable insights for enhancing CNN robustness and stability. In this study, we investigate the mechanism of neuron orientation selectivity and develop an artificial visual system (AVS) referring to the structure of the primary visual system. Through learning on an artificial object orientation dataset, AVS acquires orientation extraction capabilities. Subsequently, we employ the pre-trained AVS as an information pre-processing block at the front of CNNs to regulate their preference for different image features during training. We conducted a comprehensive evaluation of the AVS–CNN framework across different image tasks. Extensive results demonstrated that the CNNs enhanced by AVS exhibit significant model stability enhancement and error rate decrease on noise data. We propose that incorporating biological structures into CNN design still holds great potential for improving overall performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, a series of ternary hydride compounds MXH12$\left(\text{MXH}\right)_{12}$ crystallizing in the cubic Pm3¯m$P m \bar{3} m$ structure as potential rare‐earth and alkaline‐earth superconductors are designed and investigated. First‐principles calculations are performed on these prospective superconductors across the pressure range of 50–200 GPa, revealing their electronic band structures, phonon dispersions, electron–phonon (e–ph$p h$) interactions, and superconducting properties. Several compounds are identified as dynamically stable, with ScYbH12$_{12}$ and LuYbH12$_{12}$ remaining stable at 70 GPa and ScLuH12$\left(\text{ScLuH}\right)_{12}$ at 100 GPa. Notably, Eliashberg theory and e–ph$p h$ coupling calculations predict CaLuH12$_{12}$ to exhibit a remarkable Tc$T_{\text{c}}$ of up to 294 K at 180 GPa. In these findings, ternary hydrides are unveiled as a promising class of high‐temperature superconductors and insights are provided for achieving superconductivity at lower or ambient pressures through material design and exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the nonsymmetric interior penalty Galerkin (NIPG) method on a Bakhvalov-type mesh is proposed for a singularly perturbed problem with two small parameters. In order to reflect the behavior of layers more accurately, a balanced norm, rather than the common energy norm, is introduced. By selecting special penalty parameters at different mesh points, we establish the supercloseness of k + 1 2 order, and prove an optimal order of uniform convergence in a balanced norm. Numerical experiments are proposed to confirm our theoretical results. • We proposed a NIPG method for a singularly perturbed problem with two small parameters. • We designed a balanced norm and analyzed the uniform convergence of our proposed NIPG method. • The supercloseness in a balanced norm of the NIPG method was proved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is associated with abnormal repolarization manifested by QT interval prolongation, and oxidative stress is an important link between obesity and arrhythmias. However, the underlying electrophysiological and molecular mechanisms remain unclear. The aim of this study is to evaluate the role of obesity in potassium current in ventricular myocytes and the potential mechanism of NADPH oxidase 2 (Nox2). We investigated the effect of Nox2 on cardiac repolarization without compromising its expression and function in other systems using mice with conditional cardiac-specific deletions of Nox2 (knockout [KO]). Wild-type, KO, and Flox littermate mice were randomized to either the control or high-fat diet (HFD) groups. Surface electrocardiograms were recorded to analyze repolarization in vivo. Whole-cell patch-clamp techniques were used to evaluate the electrophysiological phenotype of isolated myocytes in vitro. Western blotting was performed to assess protein expression levels. Compared with the control mice, the HFD group had a prolonged QTc. The consequences of an HFD were not attributed to delayed rectifier K+ and inward-rectifier K+ currents but were associated with reduced peak outward KV and fast transient outward K+ currents. Downregulated expression of KV4.2 and KChIP2, comprising functional Ito channel pore-forming (α) and accessory (β) subunits, was detected in HFD mice. Nox2-KO reversed the effect of obesity on Ipeak and Ito amplitude. Our data demonstrate that obesity mediates impaired cardiac repolarization in mice, manifested by QTc at the whole organism level and action potential duration at the cellular level, and correlated with Nox2. The electrophysiological and molecular aspects of this phenomenon were mediated by repolarizing outward K+ currents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An innovative signal-transduction tag with glucose-doped calcium carbonate nanospheres was utilized as the label of a secondary antibody to design a nano-labelled immunosorbent assay (NLISA) of a carcinoembryonic antigen. The signal was achieved on a personal glucometer via the released glucose molecules from the nanospheres under acidic conditions after formation of the sandwiched immune complexes. The enzyme and the spectrometer in the conventional enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were replaced by a glucose-doped calcium carbonate nanosphere and a glucometer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to study the optimal use of Lactobacillus plantarum in sea cucumber (Apostichopus japonicus), 49 days feeding trial was conducted to determine the influence of immersion bathing in different concentrations of Lactobacillus plantarum CLY-05 on body weight gain rate and non-specific immune activities. The potential effect of CLY-05 on gut microbiota was also analyzed during the immersion bathing at the optimum concentration. The results showed that the body weight growth rate of all bathing groups was higher than that of control. The highest specific growth rate (4.58%) and weight gain rate (25.35%) was achieved at the bacterial concentration of 1×103 CFU/mL. The activities of non-specific immune enzymes (ACP, AKP, SOD and LZM) of all bathing groups increased after immersion bathing, and the enzyme activities of groups bathed with the bacterium at 1×103 and 1×104 CFU/mL reached the highest. Therefore, 1×103 CFU/mL was considered as the optimum concentration of L. plantarum CLY-05 for A. japonicus pond culture. The results of gut microbiota analysis showed that the gut microbiota changed with the addition of L. plantarum CLY-05, and the richness and diversity of the gut microbiota peaked on day 14 and day 21, respectively. The correlation analysis revealed that the non-specific immune enzyme activities were significantly correlated to some gut bacteria (in the phyla Proteobacteria, Firmicutes) after immersion bathing in L. plantarum CLY-05. These findings provide the theoretical foundation for probiotic application in sea cucumber farming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Substantial loss of cardiomyocytes during heart attacks and onset of other cardiovascular diseases is a major cause of mortality. Preservation of cardiomyocytes during cardiac injury would be the most effective strategy to manage these diseases in clinic. However, there is no effective treatment strategy that is able to prevent cardiomyocyte loss. We demonstrate here that the systemic administration of a recombinant PKM2 mutant (G415R) preserves cardiomyocytes and reduces cardiac fibrosis during myocardial infarction. G415R preserves cardiomyocytes by protecting the cardiomyocytes from dying and by promoting cardiomyocyte proliferation. Preservation of cardiomyocytes by extracellular PKM2 (EcPKM2) reduces cardiac fibrosis because of the decreased activation of cardiac fibroblasts. Our experiments show that EcPKM2 (G415R) exerts its action by interacting with integrin avb3 on cardiomyocytes. EcPKM2(G415R) activates the integrin–FAK–PI3K signaling axis, which subsequently suppresses PTEN expression and consequently regulates cardiomyocyte apoptosis resistance and proliferation under hypoxia and oxidative stress conditions. Our studies uncover an important cardiomyocyte protection mechanism. More importantly, the activity/action of EcPKM2 (G415R) in preserving cardiomyocyte suggesting a possible therapeutic strategy and target for the treatment of heart attacks and other cardiovascular diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study investigates the influence of soil microbiota from different regions on the gut microbiota of goitered gazelles and its role in their adaptation to extreme environments. Using non-invasive sampling methods, we analyzed the composition and diversity of gut and soil microbiota in goitered gazelles across six regions in the Qaidam Basin, Qinghai Province, China. Employing source tracking and ecological assembly process analyses, this is the first study to explore microbiota variations in goitered gazelles across multiple regions. Our findings reveal that soil-derived microbiota significantly influence the composition and diversity of gut microbiota in goitered gazelles, shaping their adaptive strategies. The interaction between gut and soil microbiota plays a crucial role in enhancing the gazelles' ability to adapt to diverse and extreme environments. Notably, the utilization pattern of soil microbiota by gut microbiota does not correspond to regional trends in gut microbiota α-diversity, potentially due to variations in environmental pressures and the gut filtering capacities of goitered gazelles. These animals actively acquire bacteria from soil microbiota, with the proportion influenced by the state of their gut microbiota. This study underscores the crucial role of gut microbiota in wildlife evolution and highlights the intricate interactions between gut and soil microbiota. By providing new insights into the co-evolution of herbivores and their environments, our findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the adaptive mechanisms in wild herbivores. The gut microbiota is integral to the health and adaptability of wild herbivores. Interactions with soil microbiota can shape the composition and function of the gut microbiota, thereby influencing the hosts' adaptive strategies. As a result, soil microbiota plays a pivotal role in enabling wild herbivores to thrive in extreme environments. However, the influence of soil microbiota from distinct regions on host's gut microbiota has often been overlooked. We conducted the first comprehensive analysis of the composition and diversity of gut and soil microbiota in goitered gazelles across six regions in the Qaidam Basin, utilizing source tracking and ecological assembly process analyses. Significant differences were observed in the composition and diversity of soil and gut microbiota among the six groups. Source tracking analysis revealed that soil microbiota in the GangciGC (GC) group contributed the highest proportion to fecal microbiota (8.94%), while the Huaitoutala (HTTL) group contributed the lowest proportion (1.80%). The GC group also exhibited the lowest α-diversity in gut microbiota. The observed differences in gut microbial composition and diversity among goitered gazelles from six regions in the Qaidam Basin were closely tied to their adaptive strategies. Ecological assembly process analysis indicated that the gut microbiota were primarily influenced by stochastic processes, whereas deterministic processes dominated most soil microbial groups. Both the differences and commonalities in gut and soil microbiota play essential roles in enabling these gazelles to adapt to diverse environments. Notably, the utilization pattern of soil microbiota by gut microbiota did not align with regional trends in gut microbial α-diversity. This discrepancy may be attributed to variations in environmental pressures and the gut's filtering capacity, allowing gazelles to selectively acquire microbiota from soil to maintain homeostasis. This study highlights the significant regional variation in gut and soil microbiota diversity among goitered gazelle populations in the Qaidam Basin and underscores the critical role of soil-derived microbiota in their environmental adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(AlCrMoNiTi)N high-entropy alloy nitride (HEAN) films were synthesized at various bias voltages using the co-filter cathodic vacuum arc (co-FCVA) deposition technique. This study systematically investigates the effect of bias voltage on the microstructure and performance of HEAN films. The results indicate that an increase in bias voltage enhances the energy of ions while concomitantly reducing the deposition rate. All synthesized (AlCrMoNiTi)N HEAN films demonstrated the composite structure composed of FCC phase and metallic Ni. The hardness of the (AlCrMoNiTi)N HEAN film synthesized at a bias voltage of −100 V attained a maximum value of 38.7 GPa. This high hardness is primarily attributed to the synergistic effects stemming from the formation of strong metal-nitrogen (Me-N) bonding formed between the target elements and the N element, the densification of the film structure, and the ion beam-assisted bombardment strengthening of the co-FCVA deposition technique. In addition, the corrosion current density of the film prepared at this bias voltage was measured at 4.9 × 10−7 A·cm−2, significantly lower than that of 304 stainless steel, indicating excellent corrosion resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bi3+-doping luminescent materials have recently evoked considerable interest in versatile applications. In this work, we have developed a series of Bi3+-activated CaSrMSbO 6 (M = La, Gd, Y) phosphors with double perovskite structures, exhibiting blue emission from 350 nm to 500 nm. The emission spectral position and intensity of Bi3+ ions can be tuned by changing excitation wavelength and doping concentrations. The relationship between the local crystal field environment and the luminescence properties is comprehensively analyzed. Importantly, optical temperature properties of CaSrLaSbO 6 : Bi3+ were investigated and were found to reach a maximum relative sensitivity of 4.57 % K−1 at 298 K. Furthermore, the anti-counterfeiting ink was prepared using CaSrLaSbO 6 : Bi3+ phosphors, and it showed tunable emission under different light stimulation. These results indicate that CaSrLaSbO 6 : Bi3+ phosphors have application potential in optical temperature sensing and anti-counterfeiting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The origin of highly-fractionated granite-pegmatite systems and their associated rare metal mineralization has been widely studied, but there is still ongoing debate. Prevailing hypotheses suggest that pegmatite formation and the associated rare metal mineralization are closely related to aqueous fluid processes. Lithium (Li) isotope analysis has been widely applied to trace granite-pegmatite evolution. This is because lithium is widely present in various minerals (e.g., mica, tourmaline) that record the melt and fluid compositions, and lithium isotopes are sensitive to magmatic-hydrothermal processes. We briefly review the methodology of Li isotope analyses, the mechanisms of Li isotopic fractionation, and, in particular, Li isotope fractionation in granite-pegmatite system based on Li isotope data we have collected and the latest developments in Li isotope geochemistry. With the development of analytical technology, high-precision measurement of the Li content and isotopic compositions have facilitated a series of scientific breakthroughs in understanding the magmatic-hydrothermal evolution of rare-element ore deposits. Li isotope analyses on bulk mineral separates have demonstrated their ability to trace various hydrothermal processes. In situ Li isotope analysis methods has been enhanced by the development of new, homogeneous mineral reference materials. In situ SIMS and LA-MC-ICP-MS Li isotope measurements on minerals (e. g., tourmaline) will likely become more important in studying the fluid-rock interactions in magmatic, metamorphic, and hydrothermal processes, as well as on pegmatite petrogenesis and rare-metal mineralization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Loess soils are widely distributed worldwide and typical in northwest China, and excessive agricultural irrigation has caused landslides in the area, specifically in the Heifangtai loess region in Lanzhou, Gansu, China. Geophysical exploration is an essential method in landslide engineering geological surveys, and geological surveying, drilling, geophysical prospecting, monitoring, and other methods are used for performing engineering geological evaluation and obtaining comprehensive basic data for landslide protection design and construction. The theoretical feasibility of using geophysical methods in loess landslide detection is essential. On the basis of the shallow geological structure of the Heifangtai landslide region in Lanzhou, Gansu, China, a typical geoelectric model of the magnetotelluric method was established, and the loess landslide area was modeled through a two-dimensional finite element method, forward numerical simulation, and engineering geological analysis. The distribution characteristics of the magnetotelluric field were determined. This is a typical application of the geological process analysis method in geophysical exploration. This study provides the typical stratigraphic structure and electrical characteristics of different groundwater distributions in Heifangtai, Gansu, China, verifies the accuracy of forward modeling and calculation results, and provides a detailed theoretical basis for landslide detection through magnetotelluric methods. Through the numerical simulation of the forward modeling of the Heifangtai landslide region in Lanzhou, Gansu, China, this study can provide a detailed geophysical basis for landslide investigation, corroborate results of geological investigation and landslide design, and facilitate the sustainable development of agriculture in Heifangtai. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Open biomass burning (OBB) is a significant source of air pollutants, profoundly impacting regional air quality and global climate change. However, due to the lack of high-resolution burned area products, limited biomass data resolution, and inappropriate emission factors (EFs), current OBB emission inventories have significant uncertainties. In this study, we integrated the FireCCI51 burned area product (250 m), high-resolution gridded biomass data, localized EFs, and various statistical survey data to compile a finer-resolution (250 m) and long-term (2001–2020) inventory of 11 pollutants for Heilongjiang Province (an important agricultural and forestry region in China). The results indicated that the annual average OBB emissions in Heilongjiang Province were 12.26, 63.70, 931.60, 17,203.35, 16.09, 171.25, 39.83, 71.22, 184.33, 129.16, and 6.35 Gg for BC, CH4, CO, CO2, NH3, NMVOC, NOx, OC, PM10, PM2.5, and SO2, respectively. Taking PM2.5 as an example, emissions from cropland, forest, and grassland burning accounted for 73%, 26%, and 1% respectively. Geographically, emissions were primarily concentrated in the western, southwestern, and northeastern regions of Heilongjiang. The peak PM2.5 emissions exhibited notable seasonal variation, with maxima occurring in April and October. This is primarily due to the extensive burning of straw during the spring and autumn ploughing seasons. The results of this study provide a detailed multi-year inventory crucial for atmospheric transport models and can support the development of effective pollution control strategies and greenhouse gas mitigation measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes an optimal control method based on adaptive dynamic programming (ADP) for manipulators with joint limitation under input saturation. The asymmetric input saturation problem is solved by introducing a smooth function, by which the saturation and nonsmooth issues of the input caused by the actuators can be handled. Joint limitation of the manipulator is transformed through a transfer function, which is incorporated into the cost function of the whole robotic system, to guarantee the joint limitation will not be violated. Meanwhile, due to the difficulty in solving Hamilton-Jacobi-Bellman (HJB) equation, the critic network is constructed utilising radial basis function neural networks (RBFNNs) to approximate the cost function. This approach effectively overcomes the curse of dimensionality problem associated with dynamic programming. Subsequently, an ADP-based optimal controller is designed for the robotic system. Lyapunov synthesis is used in the stability analysis to prove all the signals are convergent and ultimately uniformly bounded (UUB). Simulations are conducted on a planar 3-DOF manipulator to validate the effectiveness of the proposed method. The results demonstrate the improved performance and feasibility of the developed ADP-based optimal control strategy in handling joint limitations and input saturation challenges in robotic systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the 1980s, fiscal crises have notably impacted capitalist nations, a situation that intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although theories of capital accumulation and economic crises often serve to explain these events, this study advocates for a broader perspective by viewing fiscal crises as a primary manifestation of the contradiction between socialized production and capitalist private ownership. This study examines the evolution of this contradiction through various stages of capitalism and highlights the potential pitfalls of common strategies adopted by capitalist nations, such as neoliberal policies that cut social welfare and public spending. The study then shifts its focus to China, exploring its unique dual fiscal system, which supports China's rapid economic growth, offering a novel perspective on addressing the global fiscal crisis. JEL Classification : P16, F63, E62 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this experiment is to explore the role of long intergenic noncoding RNA 261 (LINC00261) gene in the chemoresistance and clinical prognosis of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). Methods: We used matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization time‐of‐flight (MALDI‐TOF) mass spectrometry to detect the methylation levels of the LINC00261 promoter region in EOC patient specimens. The expression levels of LINC00261, miR‐545‐3p, and MT1M in EOC patients were evaluated by quantitative real‐time reverse transcriptase PCR (RT‐qPCR). Spearman's correlation analysis was used for relevance analyses and clinical prognosis was counted by Kaplan–Meier analysis. Stable overexpressed LINC00261 SKOV3 cells were established to test the influence of LINC00261 on proliferation, platinum sensitivity, migration, and invasion. Results: The promoter region methylation level of the LINC00261 was hypermethylated and LINC00261 was significantly downregulated in platinum‐resistant EOC tissues. The methylation level of LINC00261was significantly negative correlated with its RNA expression in EOC. Moreover, hypermethylation and lower expression of LINC00261 in EOC patients were related to shorter progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Furthermore, Spearman's correlation analysis showed that the expression of miR‐545‐3p had a negative relevance with LINC00261. According to the website prediction, MT1M might be the downstream target gene of LINC00261. Expression of MT1M was negatively correlated with miR‐545‐3p and positively with LINC00261 in EOC tissues. And lower MT1M mRNA expression was correlated with chemotherapy resistance and worse prognosis. In vitro, overexpression of LINC00261 could inhibit cisplatin resistance, proliferation, and suppression of migration and invasion in SKOV3 cells. Conclusions: This research indicates that the aberrant hypermethylation and low expression of LINC00261 were associated with platinum resistance and adverse outcomes in EOC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to investigate the initial-boundary value problem of a possibly degenerate reaction-diffusion system over Ω ⊂ R n with n ≥ 1 of the following form ∂ t m i - κ Δ m i + | m i | γ - 2 m i = (∂ x i p) 2 , - ∇ · [ m ∇ p ] = S , with m = diag (m 1 , ⋯ , m n) , the diffusivity κ > 0 , the metabolic exponent γ ≥ 2 and the given function S. When κ = 0 , this system was introduced by Haskovec, Kreusser and Markowich as a continuous version of the discrete Hu-Cai model for biological transport networks. In this work, our result asserts that whenever the random fluctuations of the conductance in the medium were considered, i.e., κ > 0 , then for general large data the corresponding initial-boundary value problem possesses a global weak solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MicroRNA (miRNA) plays a regulatory role in periodontitis. This study aimed to explore whether miR-29a could affect lipopolysaccharides (LPSs)-induced injury in human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) through the competitive endogenous RNAs (ceRNA) mechanism. Periodontal ligament (PDL) tissues and HGFs were derived from patients with periodontitis and healthy volunteers. Periodontitis cell model was established by treating HGFs with LPS. Expression levels of circ_0036490, miR-29a, and DKK1 were evaluated by the reverse transcription quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) method. Western blotting assay was performed to assess protein expression levels of pyroptosis-related proteins and Wnt signalling related proteins. Cell viability was evaluated by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Concentration of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-18 were determined by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Pyroptosis rate were determined by flow cytometry assay to evaluate pyroptosis. The interaction between miR-29a and circ_0036490 or DKK1 was verified by dual-luciferase reporter and RNA pull-down assays. MiR-29a expression was lower in PDL tissues of patients with periodontitis than that in healthy group; likewise, miR-29a was also downregulated in LPS-treated HGFs. Overexpression of miR-29a increased cell viability and decreased pyroptosis of HGFs induced by LPS while inhibition of miR-29a exerted the opposite role. MiR-29a binds to circ_0036490 and elevation of circ_0036490 contributed to dysfuntion of LPS-treated HGFs and reversed the protection function of elevated miR-29a. In addition, miR-29a targets DKK1. Overexpression of DKK1 abrogated the effects of overexpressed miR-29a on cell vaibility, pyroptosis, and protein levels of Wnt signalling pathway of LPS-treated HGFs. Circ_0036490 and DKK1 competitively bind miR-29a to promote LPS-induced HGF injury in vitro. Wnt pathway inactivated by LPS was activated by miR-29a. Thence, miR-29a may be a promising target for periodontitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to improve the swimming efficiency of biomimetic robotic fish by optimising its propulsion curve with three degree of freedom (DOF), in which the key is to minimise the resistance during swing backstroke of the pectoral fin. For this purpose, a reference point on the pectoral fin is first selected, and then an 8-shaped propulsion curve is constructed to coordinate rowing and flapping motions. Meanwhile, a propulsion curve of feathering motion is also given correspondingly. On this basis, the overall curvature and curve offset are proposed as measurement parameters for the deformation of the propulsion curve and the proportion of abdominal/dorsal circles in the propulsion curve, respectively. As the motion law of feathering is given in a sinusoidal pattern, a data set of hydrodynamic parameters is obtained for pectoral fin propulsion under different motion parameter conditions by computational fluid dynamics(CFD) numerical simulation. Once again, a propulsion curve optimisation model is established based on multi-layer perception(MLP), which uses the hydrodynamic parameters data set as input. The results show that the resistance of swing backstroke reached the minimum when overall curvature is π/10 and curve offset is 0.4, which is enhanced by 30.13% and 33.33% at thrust and lift direction compared to the existing design, respectively. Furthermore, the flow field structure and hydrodynamic parameters around the robotic fish are calculated by CFD. The results show that two sets of vortex rings are generated around the fish body during a propulsion cycle. The vortex rings detached towards the lower and upper sides of the fish body such that the lift is minimal, the thrust direction is relatively stable, and the resistance is minimal during the swing backstroke. The experimental results indicate that it can raise propulsion efficiency during the pectoral fin propulsion process, verifying the effectiveness of this method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bow spring centralizer is a crucial tool for enhancing casing centralization and cementing quality. In order to study the replacement of metal materials by thermoplastic composite materials with bow-spring centralizers, this paper completed the mechanical experiment of thermoplastic composite materials, studied the numerical simulation analysis of the working process of the bow centralizer of thermoplastic composite materials, and explored the influence law of the bow wall thickness, radius, chord length and limiting distance of the bow-spring centralizer on the mechanical properties. The results indicate that thermoplastic composite materials can replace metal materials; increasing the wall thickness of the bow can enhance the reset force and load-bearing capacity; as the bow radius and chord length increase, the reset force initially increases and then decreases, while the tensile and compressive stresses shows little variation; the limiting distance can effectively improve the reset force, but it may lead to an increase in local pressure stress of the bow-spring centralizers，the trends of the restoring force and stress changes are consistent with those expressed by the pseudo-rigid body analytical formula. For a 5.5-inch thermoplastic composite bow spring centralizer, the optimal structural parameters are: a wall thickness of 9 mm, a radius of 325 mm, a chord length of 255 mm, and the best limiting distance is 4 mm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foreland thrust belts are globally significant areas for oil and gas exploration. These belts undergo unique tectonic activity, resulting in distinct variations in the accumulation of oil and gas. Studying the genetic evolution of deep oil and gas in these thrust belts is a crucial means of revealing the patterns of deep oil and gas accumulation. This study utilized a novel approach that combines reservoir geochemistry and basin simulation to determine the migration process of oil and gas in the foreland thrust fault belt of northwestern Sichuan Province. To achieve this goal, we established a thermal evolution model of lower Palaeozoic source rocks through organic chemical analysis. The balanced profile technique was used to determine the paleotectonic evolution pattern of the critical period in this area. Additionally, the mixed flow migration algorithm was employed to simulate the evolution of the Palaeozoic petroleum system. Through basin petroleum system modelling (BPSM), it was discovered that the bitumen found in the thrust nappe belt originated from the lower Cambrian strata. Furthermore, the gas reservoir in the hidden fault belt primarily migrated from the lower Cambrian strata and was also partially mixed with thermogenic gas from Permian source rocks. After establishing the genetic models of various tectonic belts in the study area, it became clear that there are notable differences in hydrocarbon accumulation within these belts. The BPSM results revealed that the oil present in the thrust nappe belt was generated in Lower Cambrian source rocks through early Indosinian hydrocarbon expulsion and continuous charging. The gas found in the thrust nappe belt was produced through the process of oil cracking in the deep reservoir located in the hidden front belt during the late Indosinian. The depth of the thrust nappe belt has helped to preserve hydrocarbon reservoirs. The natural gas present in the hidden fault belt primarily originates from lower Cambrian source rocks, which are combined with gas generated by oil cracking in lower Permian source rocks after the Yanshanian. Therefore, hydrocarbons accumulate deeply in the footwall of the thrust fault belt. The BPSM offers a fresh approach to hydrocarbon genetic models of thrust fault zones in the western Sichuan Basin, and it is beneficial for accurately evaluating the potential for deep hydrocarbon resources in comparable geological settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The dose perturbation effect of immobilization devices is often overlooked in intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) for gynecologic cancer. This retrospective study assessed the dosimetric effects of a prone immobilization device combined with a belly board (PIDBB) on the skin. Methods: We recruited 63 women with gynecologic cancer undergoing postoperative IMRT at our institute. A 0.3 cm thick skin contour and body contours with or without PIDBB system were outlined for each patient. Dose calculations were performed for the two sets of contours using the same plan, named Plan− and Plan+, respectively. The accuracy of calculated doses was verified by gafchromic EBT3 film and anthropomorphic phantom. Results: The V40 Gy, V30 Gy, V20 Gy, V15 Gy and Dmean of skin increased by 56.94%, 65.48%, 53.12%, 41.91%, and 1.91%, respectively. Even after excluding the effect of prescription dose coverage, the V40 Gy, V30 Gy, V20 Gy, V15 Gy and Dmean of skin still increased by 46.90%, 92.07%, 72.81%, 52.25%, and 18.06%, respectively. No significant differences were observed in doses to other organs at risk. The EBT3 measurements showed that the skin dose map to the anthropomorphic phantom was 23.79% higher than that calculated by the treatment planning system without the PIDBB system. Conclusions: While the PIDBB system effectively reduces the low dose to small intestine, it also induces radiation attenuation, leading to a sharp increase in skin dose, particularly in patients receiving radiation in the groin and perineum area. Therefore, immobilization devices should be included in the external contour to account for dose attenuation and the increment in skin dose. Trial registration: This study does not report on interventions in human health care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monocomponent catalysts exhibit the limited catalytic conversion of polysulfides due to their intrinsic electronic structure, but their catalytic activity can be improved by introducing heteroatoms to regulate its electronic structure. However, the rational selection principles of doping elements remain unclear. Here, we are guided by theoretical calculations to select the suitable doping elements based on the balanced relationship between the adsorption strength of lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) and catalytic activity of lithium sulfide. We apply the screening method to develop a new catalyst of phosphorus doped RuSe2, manifesting the further enhanced conductivity compared with original RuSe2, facilitating charge transfer and further modulating the d‐band center of RuSe2, thereby augmenting its effectiveness in interacting with LiPSs. Consequently, the assembled cell exhibits an areal capacity of 7.7 mAh cm−2, even under high sulfur loading of 8.0 mg cm−2 and a lean electrolyte condition (5.0 μL mg−1). This rational screening strategy offers a robust solution for the design of advanced catalysts in the field of lithium‐sulfur batteries and potentially other domains as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monocomponent catalysts exhibit the limited catalytic conversion of polysulfides due to their intrinsic electronic structure, but their catalytic activity can be improved by introducing heteroatoms to regulate its electronic structure. However, the rational selection principles of doping elements remain unclear. Here, we are guided by theoretical calculations to select the suitable doping elements based on the balanced relationship between the adsorption strength of lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) and catalytic activity of lithium sulfide. We apply the screening method to develop a new catalyst of phosphorus doped RuSe2, manifesting the further enhanced conductivity compared with original RuSe2, facilitating charge transfer and further modulating the d‐band center of RuSe2, thereby augmenting its effectiveness in interacting with LiPSs. Consequently, the assembled cell exhibits an areal capacity of 7.7 mAh cm−2, even under high sulfur loading of 8.0 mg cm−2 and a lean electrolyte condition (5.0 μL mg−1). This rational screening strategy offers a robust solution for the design of advanced catalysts in the field of lithium‐sulfur batteries and potentially other domains as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, a Bi2MoO6 nanosheet (BMONS)‐based sensing platform for signal‐on photoelectrochemical (PEC) detection of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is successfully constructed by employing an enzyme‐catalyzed reaction as the signal amplification method. Specifically, as the CEA concentration escalates, a substantial accumulation of immunological complexes is triggered by the interaction between antigens and antibodies, which promptly concentrate glucose oxidase (GOD) within the wells of a 96‐well microplate. These sequestered GOD molecules subsequently catalyze the hydrolysis of glucose to yield H2O2, an efficient hole scavenger, leading to significant amplification of the PEC response from the photosensitive materials. Under meticulously optimized conditions, a broad linear detection range spanning from 0.05 to 50 ng mL–1 with a low limit of detection of 0.023 ng mL–1 is realized for the detection of CEA. This exceptional performance underscores the successful implementation and efficacy of the BMONS‐based PEC‐sensing platform, which offers promising avenues for sensitive and selective biomarker detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute lung injury (ALI)/acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a life‐threatening condition with a high mortality rate of ≈40%. Thyroid hormones (THs) play crucial roles in maintaining homeostasis of the cellular microenvironment under stress. The previous studies confirmed that the clinical‐stage TH analog GC‐1 significantly alleviates pulmonary fibrosis by improving the function of mitochondria in epithelial cells. However, the effects of GC‐1 on macrophages in lung injury and the related mechanisms remain unclear. This study evaluated the therapeutic effects of GC‐1 in two murine models of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐ or hydrochloric acid (HCl)‐induced ALI. Additionally, mouse alveolar macrophages (AMs) and human THP‐1‐derived macrophages are utilized to investigate the impact of GC‐1 on macrophage polarization. GC‐1 effectively reduces the inflammatory response and lung injury in ALI mice, as evidenced by neutrophil infiltration, cytokine levels, alveolar fluid clearance, and pulmonary pathology. Notably, GC‐1 selectively inhibits M1 macrophage polarization, which may be achieved by impeding NF‐κB signaling activation through the DNMT3b‐PPARγ‐NF‐κB pathway in a TH receptor β1 (TRβ1)‐dependent manner, consequently suppressing the polarization of macrophages toward the M1 phenotype and overproduction of inflammatory cytokines. Overall, these findings highlight the immunomodulatory property of GC‐1 as an anti‐inflammatory strategy for ALI/ARDS and inflammation‐related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractAwe has been proved to have positive effects on pro-environmental behaviours. Although awe-arousing tourist experience and its impact on post-travel environmental propensities have been studied, it remains unknown whether and how awe primed outside of tourism context could influence tourism-based consumption. Acknowledging that tourists may contribute more to sustainable development if suppliers/marketers help them by manipulating decision-making situations, this research aims to analyse awe potential tourists experienced in decision-making process and its impact on their sustainable tourism consumption decisions. Small self and regulatory focus regarding the ways of cognising and appraising self and information were adopted to conceptualise the cognitive mechanism for accommodation to need of external grand entity (nature). Three experiments verified that awe promoted sustainable tourism consumption decisions through intensifying the sense of small self; awe’s causality and such mediation effect were stronger among individuals adopting prevention focus than those with promotion focus. Additionally, the main effect was compared between groups of high vs. low levels of small self. Spotlight analysis showed that the direct effect of awe on sustainable tourism decisions was attenuated when small self was relatively low. Findings extend knowledge of connections between awe and tourist behaviours and provide implications for sustainable tourism marketing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article explores the impact of ambient particulate pollutants on allergic airway inflammation by studying DNA hypomethylation of Th17 cells. Through experiments on human and mouse cells, the researchers identified a pathway involving the activation of ETV5 and RORC that leads to Th17 cell differentiation and neutrophil recruitment. The study also examined the effects of PM exposure on asthma patients in Beijing, showing increased Th17 cells and neutrophils post-exposure. Overall, the findings suggest that PM exposure exacerbates neutrophilic asthma through the activation of ETV5/RORC/Th17 signaling pathways. [Extracted from the article]