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With high‐temperature solid‐state reaction method, a series of Lu2Sr(1−x)Al4SiO12:xEu2+ phosphors have been synthesized. With Rietveld refinement method, the crystal structure of Lu2SrAl4SiO12 has been refined. Under the excitation of the ultraviolet and violet band light, Lu2Sr(1−x)Al4SiO12:xEu2+ emits the Eu2+ characteristic blue broadband light. The photoluminescence properties of concentration quenching, emission peak shift, reflectance spectra, and luminescence decay have been investigated. With the structure analyses, the corresponding physical mechanisms have been discussed. With the increased temperature, this phosphor shows well thermal stabilities. For the xEu = 0.06, 0.08, and 0.1 phosphors, the strong anti‐thermal quenching performance has been observed. The reason for the anti‐thermal quenching of this phosphor has been discussed. The trap capture mechanism may be the suitable physical mechanism to explain the anti‐thermal quenching of this phosphor. This phosphor shows the potential applications in the white LED lighting fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The unbalanced load distribution, the single-phase connection of renewable energy, and the uncoordinated charging of electric vehicles (EVs) will bring a severe issue corresponding to the three-phase unbalance in modern distribution networks. To deal with this issue, a novel multistage optimal dispatching model with the hybrid energy storage system (HESS), consisting of the battery energy storage system (BESS), EV, and supercapacitor (SC), is proposed in this paper. The first stage is conducted on the day-ahead stage, driven by minimizing the total operation cost and relieving power unbalance, the unbalanced penalty cost is introduced into the optimal dispatching model with the electricity purchasing cost and the degradation cost of HESS. Also, the chance-constraint stochastic programming (SP) model with the coordinated operation of HESS is accommodated to handle the diverse uncertainties of renewable energy, load demand, and EV users' behaviors. In the intra-day operation stage, a rolling optimization-based dispatch model is formulated to re-optimize the operation of the SC for the rapid response of mitigating the real-time three-phase unbalance caused by renewable energy. The numerical experiments are executed on the IEEE 34-bus three-phase test system. Compared with the cases without considering SC and the degradation cost of HESS, the power unbalance in the proposed model is reduced by 3.27% and 3.62% per day at the real-time stage, respectively, while total operation cost is reduced by 46.77 US$ and 350.62 US$ per day, respectively. The results validated that the proposed model is efficient in reducing the three-phase unbalance under multi-time scales, improving the economic operation of the distribution network. • Three-phase power unbalance reduction is achieved by hybrid energy storage system. • Supercapacitor is embedded with BESS and EV in day-ahead and intra-day stages. • Multi-stage optimization scheduling model proposed to minimize power unbalance. • Rolling optimization employed in intra-day stage to address short-term unbalance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewables (i.e., solar and wind power) in the Nordic area have highly seasonal characteristics, which severely restrict the wide development of renewables since they can be excessive in summer but insufficient in winter with intermittent outputs. The conventional battery energy storage system (BESS) with short-term adjustment functionality cannot eliminate the seasonal imbalance of renewables. In this regard, a risk-based bi-level planning model is presented to maximize the hosting capacity (HC) of renewables through configuring seasonal hydrogen storage (SHS) and BESS. Specifically, the upper level applies a multi-objective scheme to maximize HC and minimize the investment cost simultaneously. In turn, the lower level is driven by maximizing the profits of the distribution system operator (DSO) with the implementation of price-based demand response (PBDR). Due to forecasting errors of renewables and load resulting from intermittent output and random behaviors, a stochastic programming (SP) method is developed to address and adapt multiple uncertain fluctuations. Moreover, the conditional value-at-risk (CVaR) is introduced to measure the effect of the risks raised by multiple uncertainties on system operation. Finally, numerical studies are employed to verify the effectiveness of the proposed model. Compared to the cases without considering PBDR and SHS, the total renewable energy HC in the proposed model is increased by 2.30 MW and 0.37 MW, respectively, while the yearly cost benefit of DSO is enhanced by 28063.2 US$ and 17823.7 US$, respectively. The promising results demonstrate the empowerment of SHS can promote the cross-seasonal consumption of renewables, effectively maximizing the HC and improving the economic operation of distribution systems. • The hydrogen storage system is considered in this work for the cross-seasonal balance of renewables. • A bi-level planning model is proposed to improve hosting capacity and economic operation of the system. • The coordinated operation of seasonal hydrogen storage, demand response, and battery storage is designed. • The uncertainties and the operation risk brought by renewables and load are considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protein phosphorylation is one of the most common and important post-translational modifications and is involved in many biological processes, including DNA damage repair, transcriptional regulation, signal transduction, and apoptosis regulation. The use of antibodies targeting phosphorylated protein is a convenient method to detect protein phosphorylation. Therefore, high-quality antibodies are essential, and uniform and effective standards are urgently needed to evaluate the quality of these phosphorylation-specific antibodies. In this study, we established a simple, broad-spectrum system for the preparation of phosphorylation-positive samples. The positive samples for evaluation of phosphorylation-specific antibodies were then validated in cells from different species and tissues, and also been proven effectively in western blot, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, LC-MS/MS and immunofluorescence analysis. Overall, our findings established a novel approach for evaluation of the quality of phosphorylation-specific antibodies and may have applications in various biomedical fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Novel nonpharmacological therapies are being developed to prevent cognitive decline and reduce behavioral and psychological symptoms in patients with dementia. Virtual reality (VR) reminiscence was reported to improve anxiety, apathy, and cognitive function immediately after intervention in individuals at residential aged care facilities. However, its effect on elderly patients with dementia and how long this effect could last remain unknown. Objective: The aim of this paper is to investigate the effect of immersive VR reminiscence in people with dementia both immediately after and 3-6 months after intervention. Methods: A pilot study was conducted in 2 dementia care units. VR reminiscence therapy sessions were conducted twice per week for a 3-month period. Cognitive function, global status, depressive symptoms, and caregiver burden were assessed before and immediately after VR intervention in 20 participants. Subsequently, 7 participants were reassessed 3-6 months after the VR intervention. Wilcoxon sign-rank test was used for statistical comparisons of the changes. Results: There were no significant changes in cognitive function, global status, and caregiver burden immediately after the VR intervention, but there was a significant reduction in depressive symptoms (P=.008). Moreover, compared with the cognitive function immediately after VR, it kept declining 3-6 months after. Conclusions: Immersive VR reminiscence can improve mood and preserve cognitive function in elderly patients with dementia during the period of the intervention. Studies using a control group and comparing the use of VR with traditional forms of reminiscence should be conducted in the future to confirm and expand on these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, distribution systems are continuously evolving towards modern and flexible structures while integrating promising renewable energy resources (RERs). In this regard, an optimal network constraint-based expansion planning model combined with an optimal integration framework of intermittent RERs is proposed in this work to improve the topological flexibility in modern distribution networks (DNs). Specifically, the best investment locations and times of substations, lines, and RER-based distributed generations (DGs) are jointly taken into consideration. Additionally, the uncertainty-based multiple scenarios are modeled by probability distribution functions to strengthen the robustness and reliability of DNs influenced by the stochastic of renewable energy and load behavior. The novel network constraint is combined with three levels, where the first level introduces the graph theory to guarantee the radiality topology of modern DNs. In the second level of the network constraint, graph theory and fictitious load theory are collaboratively applied to ensure that each subsystem has a reserve connection interconnected to other subsystems. The third level is modifying the conventional fictitious load theory to ensure each subsystem is linked with at least one DG. The proposed planning model is driven by the minimum present value of total cost, including investment cost of branches, DGs, and substations, cost of substations operation, the electricity purchasing cost of substations and DGs, power losses cost, and environmental penalty cost of conventional generators. Numerical results are presented to verify that a more flexible and resilient topology of the DN system is obtained, and criteria evaluation is introduced to validate its higher performance with respect to existing procedures from power supplied quality, environmental burden, and supplied flexibility three aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The polar bodies (PBs) are extruded microcells during oocyte meiosis and generally regarded as inessentials for embryonic development. Therefore, PBs have been widely used as important materials for pre-implantation genetic diagnosis in human. Here we report that the second PB (PB2) in the mouse zygote may play roles in cell-fate specification and post-implantation development. A subset of mRNAs encoding pluripotency-related factors are enriched in PB2. Nascent proteins may be synthesized in PB2 after fertilization and transport from PB2 to the zygote before the two-cell stage. The PB2-attached blastomere (pbB) at the two-cell stage, compared to the other blastomere (npbB), likely contributes more descendants to the inner cell mass (ICM) lineage in the blastocyst. Removal of PB2 from the zygote or transient blockage of material exchange between PB2 and the zygote by nocodazole treatment appears to cause a loss of the ICM fate bias of pbB. PB2 removal or nocodazole treatment also results in abnormal post-implantation development. Injection of PB2 lysate into pbB of PB2-removed two-cell-stage embryos may reset the cell-fate preference and rescue post-implantation development. Our data collectively suggest that PB2 would demarcate the earliest cell-fate asymmetry of the mouse zygote and be required for post-implantation development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphorus (P) limitation is a significant factor restricting crop production in agricultural systems, and enhancing the internal P utilization efficiency (PUE) of crops plays an important role in ensuring sustainable P use in agriculture. To better understand how P is remobilized to affect crop growth, we first screened P-efficient (B73 and GEMS50) and P-inefficient (Liao5114) maize genotypes at the same shoot P content, and then analyzed P pools and performed non-targeted metabolomic analyses to explore changes in cellular P fractions and metabolites in maize genotypes with contrasting PUE. We show that lipid P and nucleic acid P concentrations were significantly lower in lower leaves of P-efficient genotypes, and these P pools were remobilized to a major extent in P-efficient genotypes. Broad metabolic alterations were evident in leaves of P-efficient maize genotypes, particularly affecting products of phospholipid turnover and phosphorylated compounds, and the shikimate biosynthesis pathway. Taken together, our results suggest that P-efficient genotypes have a high capacity to remobilize lipid P and nucleic acid P and promote the shikimate pathway towards efficient P utilization in maize. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aluminum–titanium hybrid parts provide different performance advantages and realize performance complementarity that can be applied in aerospace and automobile applications. However, aluminum joined to titanium by fusion welding presents challenges in achieving good joint quality. This study investigated the joining of aluminum to titanium by magnetic pulse welding, a solid-state process with excellent advantages for joining dissimilar materials. The influence of discharge voltage, radial gap, and overlap length on joint quality was studied. The joint with the highest shear strength was obtained with a 10 mm overlap length, 6.5 kV discharge voltage, and 2 mm radial gap. Joints with overlap lengths below 6 mm have the highest effective joining ratio. The overlap length affects the impact mode of the joint, and three impact modes were proposed: bidirectional, overall, and single-orientation impact. The single-orientation impact mode has the highest effective joining ratio. Finally, investigations revealed that the pulse-welded joint is a composite bond consisting of mechanical and metallurgical bonding with waves and intermetallic compounds as two of its important characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pathogenesis of white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) is largely unclear. In this study, we found that actin nucleation and clathrin-mediated endocytosis were recruited for internalization of WSSV into crayfish hematopoietic tissue (Hpt) cells. This internalization was followed by intracellular transport of the invading virions via endocytic vesicles and endosomes. After envelope fusion within endosomes, the penetrated nucleocapsids were transported along microtubules toward the periphery of the nuclear pores. Furthermore, the nuclear transporter CqImportin a1/b1, via binding of ARM repeat domain within CqImportin a1 to the nuclear localization sequences (NLSs) of viral cargoes and binding of CqImportin b1 to the nucleoporins CqNup35/62 with the action of CqRan for docking to nuclear pores, was hijacked for both targeting of the incoming nucleocapsids toward the nuclear pores and import of the expressed viral structural proteins containing NLS into the cell nucleus. Intriguingly, dysfunction of CqImportin a1/b1 resulted in significant accumulation of incoming nucleocapsids on the periphery of the Hpt cell nucleus, leading to substantially decreased introduction of the viral genome into the nucleus and remarkably reduced nuclear import of expressed viral structural proteins with NLS; both of these effects were accompanied by significantly inhibited viral propagation. Accordingly, the survival rate of crayfish post-WSSV challenge was significantly increased after dysfunction of CqImportin a1/b1, also showing significantly reduced viral propagation, and was induced either by gene silencing or by pharmacological blockade via dietary administration of ivermectin per os. Collectively, our findings improve our understanding of WSSV pathogenesis and support future antiviral designing against WSSV. IMPORTANCE As one of the largest animal DNA viruses, white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) has been causing severe economical loss in aquaculture due to the limited knowledge on WSSV pathogenesis for an antiviral strategy. We demonstrate that the actin cytoskeleton, endocytic vesicles, endosomes, and microtubules are hijacked for WSSV invasion; importantly, the nuclear transporter CqImportin a1/b1 together with CqRan were recruited, via binding of CqImportin b1 to the nucleoporins CqNup35/62, for both the nuclear pore targeting of the incoming nucleocapsids and the nuclear import of expressed viral structural proteins containing the nuclear localization sequences (NLSs). This is the first report that NLSs from both viral structure proteins and host factor are elaborately recruited together to facilitate WSSV infection. Our findings provide a novel explanation for WSSV pathogenesis involving systemic hijacking of host factors, which can be used for antiviral targeting against WSSV disease, such as the blockade of CqImportin a1/b1 with ivermectin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global pandemic of COVID-19 caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has significantly affected every human life and overloaded the health care system worldwide. Limited therapeutic options combined with the consecutive waves of the infection and emergence of novel SARS-CoV-2 variants, especially variants of concern (VOCs), have prolonged the COVID-19 pandemic and challenged its control. The Spike (S) protein on the surface of SARS-CoV-2 is the primary target exposed to the host and essential for virus entry into cells. The parental (Wuhan-Hu-1 or USA/WA1 strain) S protein is the virus-specific component of currently implemented vaccines. However, S is most prone to mutations, potentially shifting the dynamics of virus-host interactions by affecting S conformational/structural profiles. Scientists have rapidly resolved atomic structures of S VOCs and elucidated molecular details of these mutations, which can inform the design of S-directed novel therapeutics and broadly protective vaccines. Here, we discuss recent findings on S-associated virus transmissibility and immune evasion of SARS-CoV-2 VOCs and experimental approaches used to profile these properties. We summarize the structural studies that document the structural flexibility/plasticity of S VOCs and the potential roles of accumulated mutations on S structures and functions. We focus on the molecular interpretation of structures of the S variants and its insights into the molecular mechanism underlying antibody evasion and host cell-receptor binding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cryptophyte alga Proteomonas sulcata is rich in unsaturated fatty acids, phycoerythrin, and other biologically active substances and is suitable for aquatic feed, biomedical applications, and other related industries. To stimulate and increase the production of P. sulcata, we investigated the optimal culture conditions and two-stage culture of this alga under various factors (temperature, light intensity, and quality) using flow cytometry analysis. When cultivated at 24 °C with a light intensity of 100 μmol photons m-2 s-1 and white light, the highest yield of biomass production was achieved (5.87 ± 0.30 × 106 cells mL-1), while the highest relative index of phycoerythrin (i. e., phycoerythrin content) was obtained under green or red light. Although white light will result in the highest growth, red light could stimulate higher phycoerythrin content in cells. Finally, we suggested that flow cytometry could provide a dependable relative value of phycoerythrin content. This study is the first to confirm that flow cytometry can be used to collect physiological information on P. sulcata and sheds light on the optimal culture conditions for the growth of this alga. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a complex disease. An ongoing accumulation of mutations results in increased genetic diversity, with the tumor acquiring distinct subclones. However, non‐genetic intra‐tumoral heterogeneity, the cellular differentiation state and the interplay between subclonal evolution and transcriptional heterogeneity are poorly understood. Here, the authors perform single‐cell RNA sequencing from 14 untreated PCa patients. They create an extensive cell atlas of the PCa patients and mapped developmental states onto tumor subclonal evolution. They identify distinct subclones across PCa patients and then stratify tumor cells into four transcriptional subtypes, EMT‐like (subtype 0), luminal A‐like (subtype 1), luminal B/C‐like (subtype 2), and basal‐like (subtype 3). These subtypes are hierarchically organized into stem cell‐like and differentiated status. Strikingly, multiple subclones within a single primary tumor present with distinct combinations of preferential subtypes. In addition, subclones show different communication strengths with other cell types within the tumor ecosystem, which may modulate the distinct transcriptional subtypes of the subclones. Notably, by integrating TCGA data, they discover that both tumor cell transcriptional heterogeneity and cellular ecosystem diversity correlate with features of a poor prognosis. Collectively, their study provides the analysis of subclonal and transcriptional heterogeneity and its implication for patient prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anti-rolling devices are widely used in modern shipboard components. In particular, ship anti-rolling control systems are developed to achieve a wide range of ship speeds and efficient anti-rolling capabilities. However, factors that are challenging to solve accurately, such as strong nonlinearities, a complex working environment, and hydrodynamic system parameters, limit the investigation of the rolling motion of ships at sea. Moreover, current anti-rolling control systems still face several challenges, such as poor nonlinear adaptability and manual parameter adjustment. In this regard, this study developed a dynamic model for a ship anti-rolling system. In addition, based on deep reinforcement learning (DRL), an efficient anti-rolling controller was developed using a deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG) algorithm. Finally, the developed system was applied to a ship anti-rolling device based on the Magnus effect. The advantages of reinforcement learning adaptive control enable controlling an anti-rolling system under various wave angles, ship speeds, and wavelengths. The results revealed that the anti-rolling efficiency of the intelligent ship anti-rolling control method using the DDPG algorithm surpassed 95% and had fast convergence. This study lays the foundation for developing a DRL anti-rolling controller for full-scale ships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Drought and salt stresses are the two major abiotic constraints on plant growth and development, as well as crop production. Previous studies have shown that several of 11 OsOSCAs complement hyperosmolality-induced [Ca2+]cytincreases (OICIcyt), salt stress-induced [Ca2+]cyt increases (SICIcyt), and the associated growth phenotype in the Arabidopsis mutant osca1. However, their biological functions in rice are still unclear. In this paper, we found that OsOSCA1.1 mediates OICIcyt and SICIcyt in rice roots, which are associated with stomatal closure and seedling survival, in response to hyperosmolality and salt stress. The transcriptomic analysis revealed the following three types of OsOSCA1.1-regulated genes in shoots: 2416 sorbitol, 2349 NaCl, and 1844 osmotic-stress response genes. The GO enrichment analysis showed that these OsOSCA1.1-regulated genes were enriched in transcription regulation, hormone responses, and phosphorylation terms, consistent with the enrichment of cis-regulatory elements, i.e., ABRE, ARE, MYB, and MYC binding elements, in the 2000-bp promoter regions of these genes. Our results provide important clues for dissecting calcium regulated gene expression networks in response to drought and salt stresses in rice. OSCA (reduced hyperosmolality-induced [Ca2+]i increase) is a family of mechanosensitive calcium-permeable channels that play a role in osmosensing and stomatal immunity in plants. Oryza sativa has 11 OsOSCA genes; some of these were shown to complement hyperosmolality-induced [Ca2+]cyt increases (OICIcyt), salt stress-induced [Ca2+]cyt increases (SICIcyt), and the associated growth phenotype in the Arabidopsis thaliana mutant osca1. However, their biological functions in rice remain unclear. In this paper, we found that OsOSCA1.1 mediates OICIcyt and SICIcyt in rice roots, which are critical for stomatal closure, plant survival, and gene expression in shoots, in response to hyperosmolality and the salt stress treatment of roots. Compared with wild-type (Zhonghua11, ZH11) plants, OICIcyt and SICIcyt were abolished in the roots of 10-day-old ososca1.1 seedlings, in response to treatment with 250 mM of sorbitol and 100 mM of NaCl, respectively. Moreover, hyperosmolality- and salt stress-induced stomatal closure were also disrupted in a 30-day-old ososca1.1 mutant, resulting in lower stomatal resistance and survival rates than that in ZH11. However, overexpression of OsOSCA1.1 in ososca1.1 complemented stomatal movement and survival, in response to hyperosmolality and salt stress. The transcriptomic analysis further revealed the following three types of OsOSCA1.1-regulated genes in the shoots: 2416 sorbitol-responsive, 2349 NaCl-responsive and 1844 common osmotic stress-responsive genes after treated with 250 mM of sorbitol and 125 mM NaCl of in 30-day-old rice roots for 24 h. The Gene Ontology enrichment analysis showed that these OsOSCA1.1-regulated genes were relatively enriched in transcription regulation, hormone response, and phosphorylation terms of the biological processes category, which is consistent with the Cis-regulatory elements ABRE, ARE, MYB and MYC binding motifs that were overrepresented in 2000-bp promoter regions of these OsOSCA1.1-regulated genes. These results indicate that OsOSCA-mediated calcium signaling specifically regulates gene expression, in response to drought and salt stress in rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultraviolet (UV-C) irradiation is the most important part of water filtration, which has no side effects on the environment and has been used in water purification systems in the aquaculture and transistor industries. In this research, the effect of UV-C on Chlorella sp. was investigated. Chlorella sp. was irradiated 0, 1, 2 or 3 times at a fixed flow rate of 6.5 L min−1 and the effects of UV-C LED on the apoptosis rate and death rate of Chlorella sp. were analyzed by flow cytometry after staining cells with the nucleic acid dye SYTOX Green and the membrane-associated protein stain Annexin V-PE Reagent. As a result of UV-C irradiation, the Chlorella sp. cells underwent phosphatidylserine (PS) ectropion and plasma membrane damage, which resulted in death. The effect of UV-C was proportional to the number of times of irradiation. Three doses of UV-C LED irradiation resulted in a 91.76 ± 3.33% death rate, as observed through SYTOX Green staining, with no rebound within 72 h. This research is the first report to observe that delayed cellular apoptosis occurred in Chlorella sp., and we expect that our study can be used as a standard reference for future industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: B4GALT5 is postulated to be an important protein in sugar metabolism that catalyzes the synthesis of lactosylceramide (LacCer). However, its role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unknown.Method: We characterized the expression of B4GALT5 in HCC tissue compared to normal tissue, and explored its function of B4GALT5 in HCC by enrichment analysis based on its co-expressed gene set. Next, we checked whether B4GALT5 expression is correlated to immune infiltration level and clinical prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma. Finally, we verified the expression of B4GALT5 using clinical samples evaluated by RT-PCR, and conducted in vitro experiments with B4GALT5-knockdown HCC cells to investigate the function of B4GALT5 in the HCC cell proliferation, migration and invasion.Results: We found B4GALT5 mRNA and protein expression levels were significantly high in HCC tissue compared to normal tissue. The enrichment analysis of the gene sets that co-expressed with B4GALT5 showed specificity in HCC-related pathways and functions. Also, the expression pattern of B4GALT5 was significantly related to the immune infiltration level, especially CD4+ T cell and macrophage cells. B4GALT5 higher mRNA expression was associated with poor overall survival (OS) in HCC patients. Furthermore, In vitro experiments showed that depletion of B4GALT5 significantly inhibited HCC cell proliferation, migration and invasion. This study revealed the function and its mediated pathways of B4GALT5 in HCC, indicating that B4GALT5 may serve as a prognostic biomarker of HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This account presents information on all aspects of the biology of Ginkgo biloba L. (Ginkgo, Maidenhair tree) that are relevant to understanding its ecological characteristics. The main topics are presented within the standard framework of the International Biological Flora: distribution, habitat, communities, responses to biotic factors, responses to environment, structure and physiology, phenology, reproductive and seed characters, herbivores and disease, history, conservation and global heterogeneity.Globally, Ginkgo survives a wide range of mean annual temperature (−3.3 to 23.3°C) and annual precipitation (34–3925 mm) conditions, according to a meta‐analysis. It prefers a warm, humid, open‐canopy and a well‐drained environment. The species shows strong tolerance to drought, freezing, fire, air pollution, heavy metals and low‐level salt, whereas it is intolerant to long‐time shade and waterlogging. Six Ginkgo trees even survived the atom bomb in Hiroshima, Japan, during World War II.Ginkgo is susceptible to few diseases. Those occurring in nursery seedlings and juvenile trees involve stem rot and leaf blight. The former is caused by Macrophomina phaseoli, which could lead to a mortality rate of 5%–12% (up to 31.8%) for seedlings. This disease can be mitigated by a 4‐h shading treatment and applying organic fertilisers. The pathogens inducing leaf blight include Alternaria alternata, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and Pestalotia ginkgo, which may infect 100% juvenile trees in some regions. The application of 45% carbendazim or 50% Tuzet can effectively prevent leaf blight.Ginkgo biloba is one of the world's most distinctive trees with an important position in plant evolution and human society. It is a tall deciduous dioecious tree native to China. Refugial populations were identified in three glacial refugia located in eastern, southern and south‐western China, respectively, with a patchy distribution pattern and a small population size. It typically grows along flood‐disturbed streamsides in warm‐temperate deciduous (and evergreen mixed) broadleaved forests. Ginkgo may have been introduced repeatedly out of China since the sixth century. It has been planted as a landscape tree world‐wide, except in Antarctica. Ginkgo is also of great value for edible nuts, herbal medicine, religion and art. It is a natural and cultural symbol of China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Among low-risk pregnancies, we aimed to ascertain the association between 5-minute Apgar score and adverse outcomes of newborn-maternal dyad.Study Design: We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the U.S. vital statistics datasets (2012-2016), including live births from low-risk women with non-anomalous singleton gestations who delivered at 37-41 weeks. Apgar score was categorized as low (0-3), moderate (4-6), and normal (7-10). The primary outcome was composite neonatal adverse outcome (any of the following: assisted ventilation > 6 h, neonatal seizure, or neonatal death). The secondary outcomes were infant mortality and composite maternal adverse outcome (any of the following: admission to the intensive care unit, blood transfusion, uterine rupture, or unplanned hysterectomy). Multivariable Poisson regression analyses were used to estimate the association between 5-minute Apgar score and adverse outcomes (using adjusted relative risk [aRR] and 95% confidence intervals [CI]).Results: Of 19.9 million live births delivered between 2012 and 2016, 11.7 million (58.7%) met inclusion criteria; 98.9% had a normal 5-minute Apgar score, 0.9% had a moderate score, and 0.2% had a low score. The overall composite neonatal adverse outcome was 3.2 per 1,000 live births and the rates were significantly higher among those with a moderate (aRR 20.8; 95% CI 20.2-21.4) or low score (aRR 43.1; 95% CI 41.6-44.5) than normal score. The overall composite maternal adverse outcome was 2.45 per 1,000 live births and it was significantly higher in deliveries with a moderate (aRR 3.1; 95% CI 2.9-3.3) and low (aRR 4.6; 95% CI 4.2-5.0) 5-minute Apgar score than those with a normal score. Infant mortality also showed a similar pattern.Conclusion: Though approximate 1% of live births had a 5-minute Apgar score below 7 among low-risk pregnancies, a decreased score was associated with a significantly higher risk of neonatal and maternal adverse outcomes, as well as infant mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The measurement of neutrino mass ordering (MO) is a fundamental element for the understanding of leptonic flavour sector of the Standard Model of Particle Physics. Its determination relies on the precise measurement of Δ m 31 2 and Δ m 32 2 using either neutrino vacuum oscillations, such as the ones studied by medium baseline reactor experiments, or matter effect modified oscillations such as those manifesting in long-baseline neutrino beams (LB ν B) or atmospheric neutrino experiments. Despite existing MO indication today, a fully resolved MO measurement ( ≥ 5 σ ) is most likely to await for the next generation of neutrino experiments: JUNO, whose stand-alone sensitivity is ∼ 3 σ , or LB ν B experiments (DUNE and Hyper-Kamiokande). Upcoming atmospheric neutrino experiments are also expected to provide precious information. In this work, we study the possible context for the earliest full MO resolution. A firm resolution is possible even before 2028, exploiting mainly vacuum oscillation, upon the combination of JUNO and the current generation of LB ν B experiments (NOvA and T2K). This opportunity is possible thanks to a powerful synergy boosting the overall sensitivity where the sub-percent precision of Δ m 32 2 by LB ν B experiments is found to be the leading order term for the MO earliest discovery. We also found that the comparison between matter and vacuum driven oscillation results enables unique discovery potential for physics beyond the Standard Model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Limitation of plant productivity by phosphorus (P) supply is widespread and will probably increase in the future. Relatively large amounts of P fertilizer are applied to sustain crop growth and development and to achieve high yields. However, with increasing P application, plant P efficiency generally declines, which results in greater losses of P to the environment with detrimental consequences for ecosystems. Scope A strategy for reducing P input and environmental losses while maintaining or increasing plant performance is the development of crops that take up P effectively from the soil (P acquisition efficiency) or promote productivity per unit of P taken up (P utilization efficiency). In this review, we describe current research on P metabolism and transport and its relevance for improving P utilization efficiency. Conclusions Enhanced P utilization efficiency can be achieved by optimal partitioning of cellular P and distributing P effectively between tissues, allowing maximum growth and biomass of harvestable plant parts. Knowledge of the mechanisms involved could help design and breed crops with greater P utilization efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jasmonic acid (JA) and its derivatives, collectively known as jasmonates (JAs), are important signaling hormones for plant responses against chewing herbivores. In JA signaling networks, jasmonate ZIM-domain (JAZ) proteins are transcriptional repressors that regulate JA-modulated downstream herbivore defenses. JAZ repressors are widely presented in land plants, however, there is only limited information about the regulation/function of JAZ proteins in maize. In this study, we performed a comprehensive expression analysis of ZmJAZ genes with other selected genes in the jasmonate pathway in response to feeding by fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda, FAW), mechanical wounding, and exogenous hormone treatments in two maize genotypes differing in FAW resistance. Results showed that transcript levels of JAZ genes and several key genes in JA-signaling and biosynthesis pathways were rapidly and abundantly expressed in both genotypes in response to these various treatments. However, there were key differences between the two genotypes in the expression of ZmJAZ1 and ZmCOI1a, these two genes were expressed significantly rapidly and abundantly in the resistant line which was tightly regulated by endogenous JA level upon feeding. For instance, transcript levels of ZmJAZ1 increase dramatically within 30 min of FAW-fed Mp708 but not Tx601, correlating with the JA accumulation. The results also demonstrated that wounding or JA treatment alone was not as effective as FAW feeding; this suggests that insect-derived factors are required for optimal defense responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A metal-insulator-semiconductor (MIS) tunneling diode is a very promising sensor due to its deep depletion phenomenon. The coupling effect between two adjacent devices is therefore of importance. To study the MIS deep-depletion tunneling current coupling phenomenon, a device pattern of one centric circle coupled with one or two surrounding rings was devised. It was found that MIS(p) tunneling current with the Schottky barrier height modulation mechanism is enhanced just by locating more MIS(p) structures nearby or by shortening their relative distance, which can again be verified under light exposure. The MIS(n) structure was also fabricated for comparison. It was observed in MIS(n) that, with the lack of the Schottky barrier height modulation mechanism, tunneling current is greater and almost immune to light irradiance compared to MIS(p). Besides, the edge oxide of MIS(p) is removed to change its Schottky barrier height modulation capability. Significantly lower deep-depletion tunneling current and invulnerability to the adjacent minority condition were observed. Surprisingly, it offers smaller saturation voltage and better photosensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rapid development of data-driven technology, deep learning has been widely used to study unsteady flow phenomena, owing to its high-dimensional, nonlinear, and excellent big-data processing capabilities. Rapidly and accurately predicting unsteady flow fields has been a major challenge in fluid mechanics. Therefore, we designed a new U-shaped hybrid deep neural network (UDNN) framework using a multilayer convolution. Through the multilayer learning interaction of high-dimensional flow-field data, the temporal and spatial characteristics of the flow-field flow are captured, and the flow-field characteristics are predicted in an end-to-end form. The UDNN comprises a convolutional neural layer, deconvolutional layer, convolutional long-term and short-term layers, and attention-mechanism layer. First, based on computational fluid dynamics, we generated unsteady flow-field datasets of the flow around fixed and rotating cylinders at different Reynolds numbers, which were used as training samples for the network framework. Second, we designed a U-shaped convolutional layer, added horizontal time-series feature processing and attention-mechanism units, and fused the deep feature information predicted by the model with shallow semantic information to predict the flow-field features. In addition, we compared the UDNN, proper orthogonal decomposition – long short-term memory, and traditional convolutional autoencoder – long short-term memory models in terms of the flow-field prediction error, model training time, and inference speed. The final results showed that the proposed UDNN framework achieved high accuracy and strong robustness in predicting unsteady flow fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthetic plastics and microplastics are naturally difficult to degrade due to their stable structure of high molecular weight, which are increasingly serious pollution to the environment. Recent findings have presented the existence of enzymes capable of degrading synthetic plastics. The use of enzymes to degrade plastics is environmentally friendly and has great application potential for future engineering. Therefore, considering the recent advancements in this research field, this review highlights enzymes of hydrolases/oxidoreductases for biodegradation of synthetic plastics with their degradation mechanisms. Furthermore, This review provides an extraordinarily detailed insight into influence of intrinsic properties of plastics and enzymes and external environment on enzymatic degradation process. Furthermore, evaluation methods for enzymatic degradation on synthetic plastics were discussed. Finally, perspective for future research to improve innovation in plastic degradation and recycling technology, empowers the development and utilization of biodegradable plastics. [Display omitted] • The use of enzymes to degrade plastics is environmentally friendly for future engineering. • Various enzymes have exhibited plastic-degrading abilities. • Enzymatic adsorption oxidation/hydrolysis degrades plastics to low molecular weight. • Several challenges in the biodegradation of plastics remain to be addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In spite of significant advancements in the synthesis of lab-scale polymeric membranes for CO 2 separation, only a limited number of studies have transitioned to pilot-scale studies. Fabricating membrane modules is a critical step in realizing the commercialization of gas separation membranes for post-combustion carbon capture, yet specific details regarding this process are rarely demonstrated. In this study, a commercial-size ⌀8ʺ prototype of countercurrent sweep spiral-wound (SW) membrane module with an amine-containing facilitated transport membrane was successfully fabricated. The module comprised 41 membrane leaves, each with a width of 20ʺ and a length of 36ʺ, resulting in a total effective membrane area of 35 m2. To ensure an even distribution of sweep flow on the permeate side to minimize pressure drop, a new epoxy glue dot line pattern was strategically designed to create a countercurrent flow configuration. The SW membrane module exhibited consistent transport performance aligning with the results of the flat-sheet membrane. The successful fabrication of the commercial-size prototype highlights the exceptional potential and effectiveness of the developed full-scale membrane module in effectively tackling the challenges associated with CO 2 capture from flue gas. [Display omitted] • Fabrication procedure of commercial-size prototype of spiral wound module was detailed. • A new epoxy glue dot line pattern was designed for countercurrent flow configuration. • An ⌀8ʺ module contained 41 membrane leaves for 35 m2 membrane area. • Anti-telescoping device and fiber-reinforced plastic were designed and employed. • High performance was obtained with an acceptable pressure drop of <1.5 psi/m. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article titled "Retraction Note: A Porous Ni(II)-MOF for CO2 Cycloaddition and Protective Effect on Type-II Diabetes via Reducing Cell ROS Production and Cell Apoptosis" has been retracted by the Editor-in-Chief and the Publisher of the Journal of Cluster Science. The retraction was prompted by evidence of systematic manipulation of the publication process, including issues with citations, phrasing, figures, and ethics approval statements. The authors have not responded to correspondence regarding the retraction. Springer Nature, the publisher, remains neutral in regards to jurisdictional claims and institutional affiliations. [Extracted from the article]

Comprehending the mechanisms underlying the response of water productivity to changing climate is essential for developing effective strategies that can maintain sustainable agricultural productivity and ecological stability amidst water scarcity and climate change. This study aimed to clarify the effects of climate and associated biologic and abiotic factors on the net water productivity (NWP) in the winter wheat—summer maize rotation system within the North China Plain (NCP), through integrating spatial-temporal pattern analysis, the Optimal Parameter-based Geographical Detector model, Random Forest, and Structural Equation Modeling. Despite climate warming and water scarcity, the NWP in the vast majority of rotation systems within the NCP exhibited an increasing trend between 2000 and 2019, which was anticipated to persist in the future. From 2000–2019, the impact of climate on the NWP exerted a fluctuating diminishment, besides the influence of WS. It is essential to add adaptive strategies that can cope with WS fluctuation in future management, to better tackle climate variability. Apart from direct effects, meteorological factors indirectly induced NWP variation primarily by influencing edaphic moisture dynamic and crop growth factors. In the paths underlying the effect of climate change on NWP, positive and negative effects coexisted. Edaphic moisture within the 40–100 cm layer played an important role in affecting NWP throughout rotation systems. To sustainably improve NWP, it was advisable to adopt deeper-rooting crop varieties in conjunction with moderate deficit irrigation and improving topsoil water retention capability. Overall, we incorporated soil and crop factors into the framework of climate impact research, providing a systematic elucidation for the mechanisms through which climate change affects NWP. Additionally, the conclusions were based on a continuous spatiotemporal framework that accounted for the geospatial heterogeneity of variables, thereby giving conclusions ample regional universality. • Soil & crop factors can help clarify mechanisms underlying climate's effect on NWP. • Despite warming and water scarcity, NWP increased and is expected to persist in future. • Impact of climate variability on NWP in wheat-maize rotation is diminishing. • Soil moisture at 40–100 cm depth is important for sustaining NWP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To recycle coal-based solid waste, this study used coal-based solid waste ceramsite with a density grade of 500 as coarse aggregates to manufacture ceramsite foam concrete. The concrete mix design was optimized using response surface experiments. Pore structure characteristics were analyzed to elucidate the connection between thermal conductivity and porosity. Microscale investigations were carried out employing a Vickers hardness tester, optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscope equipped with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TG) to offer distinct insights into the fundamental physicochemical mechanisms that govern the evolution of structural performance. The results show that with a foam content of 43 %, a water-to-binder ratio of 0.31, and a fly ash content of 15 %, the concrete produced meets the A10 grade standard. A high coefficient of determination (R2 > 0.96) highlights the validity and goodness of fit of the quadratic regression model. The average pore size and roundness of ceramsite foam concrete increase as the foam content rises but decrease with higher fly ash content. The established three-dimensional series thermal conductivity model demonstrates greater precision. A "locking" interface structure develops between ceramsite coarse aggregates and the cementitious matrix, which strengthens the transition zone. With a fly ash content of 15 %, the cementitious matrix contains the highest amount of flocculent C-S-H gel, leading to the highest compressive strength. Thermogravimetric analysis verifies the exceptional thermal stability of ceramsite foam concrete. • Ceramsite prepared from coal slurry and spontaneous combustion coal gangue is utilized to formulate lightweight concrete. • RSM-BBD experiments design was applied to multi-objective optimization of coal-based solid waste ceramsite foam concrete. • A three-dimensional series model was constructed to describe the relationship between thermal conductivity and porosity. • Unveiling the enhanced mechanism of ceramsite in the concrete interface structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we study the sampling theory for non-decaying signals in mixed Lebesgue spaces L p , q (R d + 1). First, we give some Riesz-type bounds, which connect the weighted discrete norms of the samples to the weighted continuous norms of original and interpolated signals. Then, we prove that the sampling and reconstruction through the Riesz-type bounds are stable when the generated kernel is in the appropriate mixed Wiener amalgam spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates thoroughly whether acute exposure to outdoor PM2.5 concentration, P, modifies the rate of change in the daily number of COVID-19 infections (R) across 18 high infection provincial capitals in China, including Wuhan. A best-fit multiple linear regression model was constructed to model the relationship between P and R, from 1 January to 20 March 2020, after accounting for meteorology, net move-in mobility (NM), time trend (T), co-morbidity (CM), and the time-lag effects. Regression analysis shows that P (β = 0.4309, p < 0.001) is the most significant determinant of R. In addition, T (β = −0.3870, p < 0.001), absolute humidity (AH) (β = 0.2476, p = 0.002), P × AH (β = −0.2237, p < 0.001), and NM (β = 0.1383, p = 0.003) are more significant determinants of R, as compared to GDP per capita (β = 0.1115, p = 0.015) and CM (Asthma) (β = 0.1273, p = 0.005). A matching technique was adopted to demonstrate a possible causal relationship between P and R across 18 provincial capital cities. A 10 µg/m3 increase in P gives a 1.5% increase in R (p < 0.001). Interaction analysis also reveals that P × AH and R are negatively correlated (β = −0.2237, p < 0.001). Given that P exacerbates R, we recommend the installation of air purifiers and improved air ventilation to reduce the effect of P on R. Given the increasing observation that COVID-19 is airborne, measures that reduce P, plus mandatory masking that reduces the risks of COVID-19 associated with viral-particulate transmission, are strongly recommended. Our study is distinguished by the focus on the rate of change instead of the individual cases of COVID-19 when modelling the statistical relationship between R and P in China; causal instead of correlation analysis via the matching analysis, while taking into account the key confounders, and the individual plus the interaction effects of P and AH on R. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The routine options for onychomycosis are oral, topical, and device‐based therapies which are often limited in terms of efficacy and unsatisfactory side effects. Topical agents such as luliconazole, tioconazole, terbinafine, and tazarotene can be more effective when combined with laser therapies. Our aim was to compare the efficacy and satisfaction rates of CO2 laser therapy with topical agents in patients with onychomycosis. PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Embase, and Ovid databases were searched to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the effects of combined therapies. Selected study data were analyzed for differences expressed as odds ratio (OR) and relative ratio (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for dichotomous outcomes. Efficacy and satisfaction outcomes were assessed using quantitative methods. Our investigations showed that combined CO2 laser and topical treatments significantly increased efficacy 5.38‐fold when compared with topical agents alone (OR 5.38; 95% CI; 3.20–9.04; p < 0.00001), with low heterogeneity observed among studies (I2 = 38%). Mycological clearance comparison rates were also improved by combined treatments. The higher satisfaction of the combined group was assessed by pooled effect (OR 4.56; 95% CI; 2.78–7.49; p < 0.00001). Our evidence suggests combined therapy may exert positive effects and satisfactory safety for patients with moderate to severe onychomycosis, however, optimal combination options and appropriate dosages require more comprehensive RCTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate information on the thermal structures of tropical cyclones (TCs) is essential for monitoring and forecasting their intensity and location. In this study, a scene-dependent 1-D variation (SD1DVAR) algorithm is developed to retrieve atmospheric temperature and moisture profiles under all-weather conditions. In SD1DVAR, the background and observation error matrix varies according to the scattering intensity. Especially, the observation error matrix increases in precipitating atmospheres due to a larger uncertainty in the forward operator. With the data from the Advanced Technology Microwave Sounder (ATMS) onboard Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership (NPP) satellite, SD1DVAR can retrieve better thermal structures in the storm life cycle than NOAA Microwave Integrated Retrieval System (MIRS). Comparing with the aircraft dropsonde observations, the temperature and humidity errors from SD1DVAR are about 3 K and 20%, respectively, whereas those from MIRS are around 4 K–5 K and 30%, respectively. SD1DVAR is also applied for Microwave Temperature Sounder (MWTS) and Microwave Humidity Sounder (MWHS) onboard FengYun-3D (FY-3D) satellite. The MWTS and MWHS data sets are first combined into a single Comprehensive MicroWave Suite (CMWS) data stream and then used to retrieve the hurricane thermal structures. It is shown that the hurricane structure from CMWS is very similar to that from ATMS. However, due to the availability of 118-GHz measurements from the CMWS, the hurricane temperature vertical structure is better resolved, and the humidity error is also reduced by about 5%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: To compare neonatal respiratory morbidity among small for gestational age (SGA; birth weight less than 10th percentile for gestational age) versus appropriate for gestational age (AGA; BW at 10-90th percentile) neonates born in the late preterm period.Methods: A secondary analysis of a multicenter randomized trial of antenatal corticosteroids for women at risk for late preterm birth. Singleton, nonanomalous, AGA or SGA births that delivered at 34-36 weeks were included. Women were excluded if they delivered after 37 weeks or had a large for gestational age baby (LGA; weight over 90th for gestational age). The primary outcome was a composite of any of the following: respiratory support by 72 h (continuous positive airway pressure or high flow nasal cannula ≥2 h, oxygen with a fraction of inspired oxygen of ≥30% for ≥4 h, extra corporeal membrane oxygenation or mechanical ventilation) or neonatal death. The secondary outcomes included several neonatal and maternal morbidities. Multivariable Poisson regression models were used to examine the association between neonatal weight and outcomes (using adjusted relative risk [aRR] and 95% confidence intervals [CI]).Results: Of the 2831 women in the parent trial, 2315 (82%) women met inclusion criteria; among them, 426 (18%) of the neonates were SGA. There was no significant difference in the risk of the primary outcome between SGA and AGA (13.1 versus 15.1%, aRR 0.85, 95% CI 0.66-1.10). SGA, however, was associated with an increased risk for neonatal intensive care unit admission (68 versus 45%, aRR 1.60, 95% CI 1.47-1.74), hypothermia (12.2 versus 8.8%, aRR 1.36, 95% CI 1.01-1.83), feeding problems (47.2 versus 36.9%, aRR 1.24, 95% CI 1.07-1.45) and a decreased risk of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia (7.5 versus 12.7%, aRR 0.59, 95% CI 0.41-0.84), when compared to AGA.Conclusion: In this cohort of late preterm birth, there was no significant difference in the rate of composite respiratory morbidity between SGA and AGA newborns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CD133 + cancer stem cells mediate chemoresistance in multiple aggressive cancers, and anti-CD133 chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cells are designed to selectively target cisplatin-resistant gastric cancer stem cells in this investigation. The relative CD133 expression was detected in gastric cancer patients before and after cisplatin treatment. Anti-CD133 CAR-T cells were incubated with cisplatin-exposed CD133+ BGC-823 cells to evaluate the killing efficacy. At the same time, the canonical T cell activation markers were assayed by fluorescence-activated cell sorting, and the functional cytokine profile was detected with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. In addition to the percentage of CD133 positive stem cell-like cells, the volume and weight of subcutaneous tumors in BGC-823, KATO III and MKN-28 xenograft models were measured to evaluate the anti-tumor activity of cisplatin and anti-CD133 CAR-T combination strategy. After cisplatin treatment, both human samples and BGC-823 cells showed up-regulated CD133 expression. Anti-CD133 CAR-T cells exhibited pronounced killing efficiency against cisplatin-exposed CD133+ BGC-823 cells with up-regulated activation markers and cytotoxicity cytokine production. Moreover, cisplatin and anti-CD133 CAR-T combination treatment inhibited tumor progression in three different xenograft models with diminished CD133 positive stem cell-like cell infiltration. These results indicate that cisplatin and anti-CD133 CAR-T combination strategy can simultaneously target normal and stem cell-like gastric cancer cells to improve the treatment outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The inconsistency of the detection period of blast furnace data and the large time delay of key parameters make the prediction of the hot metal silicon content face huge challenges. Aiming at the problem that the hot metal silicon content is not consistent with the detection period of time series of multiple control parameters, the cubic spline interpolation fitting model was used to realize the data integration of multiple detection periods. The large time delay of the blast furnace iron making process was analyzed. Moreover, Spearman analysis was combined with the weighted moving average method to optimize the data set of silicon content prediction. Aiming at the problem of low prediction accuracy of the ordinary neural network model, genetic algorithm was used to optimize parameters on the BP neural network model to improve the convergence speed of the model to achieve global optimization. Combined with the autocorrelation analysis of the hot metal silicon content, a modified model for the prediction of hot metal silicon content based on error analysis was proposed to further improve the accuracy of the prediction. The model comprehensively considers problems such as data detection inconsistency, large time delay, and inaccuracy of prediction results. Its average absolute error is 0.05009, which can be used in actual production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective  This study aimed to assess the risk of adverse outcomes among low-risk pregnancies at 39 to 41 weeks, stratified by birth weight percentile. Study Design  This retrospective cohort study utilized the U.S. vital statistics datasets (2013–2017) and evaluated low-risk women with nonanomalous cephalic singleton gestations who labored and delivered at 39 to 41 weeks, regardless of ultimate mode of delivery. Newborns were categorized as small (<10th percentile), large (>90th percentile), or appropriate (10–90th percentile) for gestational ages (SGA, LGA, and AGA, respectively). The primary outcome, composite neonatal adverse outcome (CNAO), included Apgar's score <5 at 5 minutes, assisted ventilation >6 hours, seizure, or neonatal death. The secondary outcome, composite maternal adverse outcome (CMAO), included intensive care unit admission, blood transfusion, uterine rupture, or unplanned hysterectomy. Multivariable Poisson's regression was used to estimate the association (using adjusted relative risk [aRR] and 95% confidence interval [CI]). Results  Of 19.8 million live births during the study interval, approximately 8.9 million (44.9%) met the inclusion criteria, with 9.9% being SGA, 9.2% being LGA, and 80.9% being AGA. SGA newborns delivered at 40 (aRR = 1.17; 95% CI: 1.12–1.23) and at 41 weeks (aRR = 1.55; 95% CI: 1.45–1.66) had a higher risk of CNAO than at 39 weeks. Similarly, LGA newborns delivered at 40 (aRR = 1.13; 95% CI: 1.07–1.19) and 41 weeks (aRR = 1.44; 95% CI: 1.35–1.54) and AGA newborns delivered at 40 (aRR = 1.24; 95% CI: 1.21–1.26) and 41 weeks (aRR = 1.57; 95% CI: 1.53–1.61) also had a higher risk of CNAO than at 39 weeks. CMAO was also significantly higher at 40 and 41 weeks than at 39 weeks, regardless of whether the mothers delivered SGA, LGA, or AGA newborns. Conclusion  Among low-risk pregnancies, the risks of composite neonatal and maternal adverse outcomes increase from 39 through 41 weeks' gestation, irrespective of whether newborns are SGA, LGA, or AGA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: A potential manner to lower the morbidity with the hypertensive disoreders of pregancy is to explore the time of day of delivery.Objective: To compare composite neonatal adverse outcomes among term women with hypertensive disorders.Methods: This population-based cohort study used the U.S. vital statistics dataset from 2013 to 2017. Time of delivery was categorized into three shifts. The primary outcome was composite neonatal adverse outcome..Results: Compared to neonates delivered at the first shift, the risk of composite neonatal adverse outcome was higher at the third shift (aRR = 1.19, 95% CI = 1.13-1.25).Conclusion: the risk of composite neonatal adverse outcome is higher if the delivery occurs at the third (23:00-7:00) shift. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare composite maternal and neonatal adverse outcomes among women with at least a bachelor's degree by racial and ethnic groups.Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study using the U.S. vital statistics data sets. We included women with at least a bachelor's degree who delivered a nonanomalous live singleton neonate at 24-40 weeks. The primary outcome, composite maternal adverse outcome, included admission to intensive care unit, maternal transfusion, ruptured uterus, unplanned hysterectomy, or unplanned operating room procedure after delivery. The secondary outcome, composite neonatal adverse outcome, included 5-minute Apgar score less than 5, assisted ventilation for more than 6 hours, neonatal seizure, birth injury, or neonatal death. Multivariable regression models were used to estimate the association between maternal race and adverse outcomes.Results: Of 11.8 million live births, 2.2 million (19%) met the inclusion criteria; 81.5% were to non-Hispanic white women, 8.5% to non-Hispanic black women, and 10% Hispanic women. The overall rate of composite maternal adverse outcome was 5.3 per 1,000 live births. Compared with non-Hispanic white women, the risk of the composite maternal adverse outcome was significantly higher among non-Hispanic black women (adjusted relative risk [aRR] 1.20; 95% CI 1.13-1.27), but lower among Hispanic women (aRR 0.69; 95% CI 0.64-0.74), a pattern which varied among different gestational age groups. The overall rate of composite neonatal adverse outcome was 11.6 per 1,000 live births. The risk of composite neonatal adverse outcome was significantly higher among neonates with non-Hispanic black mothers (aRR 1.25; 95% CI 1.20-1.30), but lower among neonates with Hispanic mothers (aRR 0.71; 95% CI 0.68-0.75), compared with neonates delivered by non-Hispanic white mothers and varied across gestational age.Conclusion: Among women with at least a bachelor's degree, small but measurable racial and ethnic disparities in composite maternal and neonatal adverse outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To examine risk factors and adverse outcomes for neonatal-maternal dyads among low-risk pregnancies at term with subsequent neonatal seizures.Methods: United States vital statistics data sets were used for this retrospective study. Inclusion criteria were low-risk women (without hypertensive disease or diabetes) with nonanomalous singleton pregnancies, who delivered after labor at 37-41 weeks of gestation. The primary composite neonatal adverse outcome included 5-minute Apgar score less than 5, assisted ventilation longer than 6 hours, and neonatal death. A secondary outcome was composite maternal adverse outcome. Multivariable Poisson regression models with robust error variance were used, with adjusted relative risk (aRR) and 95% CI reported.Results: Of 19.76 million live births during the study interval, 11.7 million (59.4%) met inclusion criteria. The rate of neonatal seizures after low-risk pregnancies delivered at term was 0.2 per 1,000 live births. The maternal risks factors associated with neonatal seizures included no prenatal care, smoking during pregnancy, being overweight or obese, and gestational age of 41 weeks. The strongest risk factors for neonatal seizures were chorioamnionitis (relative risk [RR] 5.04, 95% CI 4.40-5.77; aRR 3.27, 95% CI 2.84-3.76) and route of delivery, with operative vaginal (RR 3.62, 95% CI 3.20-4.09; aRR 3.02, 95% CI 2.66-3.43) and cesarean (RR 4.13, 95% CI 3.81-4.48; aRR 3.14, 95% CI 2.86-3.45) higher than spontaneous vaginal. Compared with neonates without seizures, those with seizures had higher risk of composite neonatal adverse outcome (RR 64.55, 95% CI 61.83-67.39; aRR 37.09, 95% CI 35.20-39.08). Compared with women who delivered neonates without seizures, those who delivered neonates with seizures had higher risk of composite maternal adverse outcome (RR 16.27, 95% CI 13.66-19.37; aRR 9.70, 95% CI 8.15-11.53).Conclusion: We identified modifiable maternal risk factors associated with neonatal seizures among low-risk pregnancies at term. Though infrequent, neonatal seizures are associated with higher risk of adverse outcomes in neonatal-maternal dyads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the composite neonatal and maternal adverse outcomes among low-risk pregnant women who labor and subsequently deliver at different time shifts.Methods: This was a population-based retrospective cohort study using the U.S. vital statistics data set on Period Linked Birth-Infant Death Data from 2012 to 2016. The study population was restricted to live births from low-risk women with nonanomalous singletons who labored and delivered at 37 0/7 to 41 6/7 weeks of gestation. Time of delivery was categorized as the first shift (7:00-15:00), the second shift (15:00-23:00), and the third shift (23:00-7:00). The primary outcome was composite neonatal adverse outcome, and the secondary outcome was composite maternal adverse outcome. Multivariable Poisson regression models were used to estimate the association between the time of delivery and adverse outcomes (using adjusted relative risk [aRR] and 95% CI).Results: Of 19.9 million live births during the study period, 58.8% (more than 11.6 million) met the inclusion criteria. The overall composite neonatal adverse outcome was 6.6 per 1,000 live births. The multivariable adjusted analysis demonstrated that, compared with neonates delivered at the first shift, the risk of composite neonatal adverse outcome was higher at the second shift (relative risk [RR] 1.15, aRR 1.07, 95% CI 1.05-1.09), and the third shift (RR 1.28, aRR 1.24, 95% CI 1.22-1.27). The overall composite maternal adverse outcome was 2.45 per 1,000 live births. After adjustment, there was no significant difference in the risk of composite maternal adverse outcome based on the time of delivery.Conclusion: Among low-risk singleton pregnancies, compared with delivery at 7:00-15:00, the composite neonatal adverse outcome is marginally but significantly higher if the delivery occurs at the second (15:00-23:00) and the third (23:00-7:00) shifts. The composite maternal adverse outcome is similar among the three different time shifts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the composite neonatal or maternal adverse outcome among low-risk, parous women at 39-41 weeks of gestation.Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study using the U.S. vital statistics data sets (2012-2016). We evaluated low-risk parous women with nonanomalous singleton gestations who delivered at 39, 40, or 41 weeks of gestation (as reported in completed weeks, eg, 39 weeks includes 39 0/7-39 6/7 weeks of gestation). The primary outcome, the composite neonatal adverse outcome, included any of the following: Apgar score less than 5 at 5 minutes, assisted ventilation for longer than 6 hours, neonatal seizure, or neonatal mortality. The secondary outcome, the composite maternal adverse outcome, included any of the following: intensive care unit admission, blood transfusion, uterine rupture, or unplanned hysterectomy. We used multivariable Poisson regression analyses to estimate the association between gestational age and adverse outcome (using adjusted relative risks [aRR] and 95% CI).Results: Of 19.9 million live births during the study period, 5.4 million (27.1%) met inclusion criteria. Among them, 54.4% delivered at 39 weeks of gestation, 35.7% at 40 weeks, and 9.9% at 41 weeks. The overall rate of the composite neonatal adverse outcome was 4.86 per 1,000 live births. The risk of the composite neonatal adverse outcome was higher for those delivered at 40 (aRR 1.18; 95% CI 1.15-1.22) and 41 (aRR 1.59; 95% CI 1.53-1.65) weeks of gestation when compared with 39 weeks. The overall rate of the composite maternal adverse outcome was 2.31 per 1,000 live births. The risk of the composite maternal adverse outcome was also significantly higher with delivery at 40 (aRR 1.15; 95% CI 1.11-1.19) and 41 weeks of gestation (aRR 1.50; 95% CI 1.42-1.58) than at 39 weeks.Conclusion: Though only modestly, the rates of the composite neonatal and maternal adverse outcomes increase, from 39 through 41 weeks of gestation, among low-risk parous women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the neonatal and maternal adverse outcomes among women with cerclage and prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) < versus > 30 kg/m2 STUDY DESIGN: This retrospective cohort study utilized the U.S. Vital Statistics Datasets from 2011-2013. Inclusion criteria were women with non-anomalous singletons, with cerclage placement, without diabetes or hypertensive disorders, and who delivered at 20-41 weeks. The primary outcome was the composite neonatal adverse outcome (Apgar score below 5 at 5 min, birth injury, assisted ventilation for more than 6 h, neonatal seizure, or neonatal death). The secondary outcomes included the composite maternal adverse outcome (admission to intensive care unit, maternal transfusion, ruptured uterus, unplanned hysterectomy, or unplanned operating room procedure), chorioamnionitis, and cesarean delivery. Multivariable Poisson regression models with robust error variance were used, while adjusting for confounders. Adjusted relative risk with 95 % confidence intervals were calculated.Results: Of the 22,466 live births that met the inclusion criteria during the study period, 6427 (28.6 %) had cerclage and prepregnancy BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2. The composite neonatal adverse outcome was significantly increased (aRR 1.45; 95 % CI 1.33-1.60) among women with cerclage and BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 when compared to those with BMI < 30 kg/m2. The composite maternal adverse outcome was similar (aRR 0.93; 95 % CI 0.72-1.20) among the two groups. Chorioamnionitis (aRR 1.46; 95 % CI 1.24-1.72) and cesarean delivery (aRR 1.24; 95 % CI 1.19-1.29) were higher in women with cerclage and BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2.Conclusion: Among pregnancies with cerclage and delivery at 20-41 weeks, the risk of the composite neonatal adverse outcome was modestly increased in newborns delivered by women with BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 than those delivered by women with BMI < 30 kg/m2. No significant difference was found in the risk of the composite maternal adverse outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large percentage of crop loss is due to insect damage, especially caterpillar damage. Plant chitinases are considered excellent candidates to combat these insects since they can degrade chitin in peritrophic matrix (PM), an important protective structure in caterpillar midgut. Compared to chemical insecticides, chitinases could improve host plant resistance and be both economically and environmentally advantageous. The focus of this research was to find chitinase candidates that could improve plant resistance by effectively limiting caterpillar damage. Five classes of endochitinase (I-V) genes were characterized in the maize genome, and we isolated and cloned four chitinase genes (chitinase A, chitinase B, chitinase I, and PRm3) present in two maize (Zea mays L.) inbred lines Mp708 and Tx601, with different levels of resistance to caterpillar pests. We also investigated the expression of these maize chitinases in response to fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda, FAW) attack. The results indicated that both chitinase transcript abundance and enzymatic activity increased in response to FAW feeding and mechanical wounding. Furthermore, chitinases retained activity inside the caterpillar midgut and enzymatic activity was detected in the food bolus and frass. When examined under scanning electron microscopy, PMs from Tx601-fed caterpillars showed structural damage when compared to diet controls. Analysis of chitinase transcript abundance after caterpillar feeding and proteomic analysis of maize leaf trichomes in the two inbreds implicated chitinase PRm3 found in Tx601 as a potential insecticidal protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare composite neonatal and maternal adverse outcomes among low-risk singleton pregnancies at 37-41 weeks among conception methods: spontaneously-conceived (SC) pregnancy; infertility medications and/or intrauterine insemination (IFM/IUI); and assisted reproductive technology (ART).Design: Population-based retrospective cohort study.Setting: US Vital Statistics datasets 2013-2017.Patient(s): Low-risk pregnancies (without hypertensive disorders, pregestational or gestational diabetes, or history of preterm birth) of women ≥20 years with nonanomalous singletons, who labored, delivered at 37-41 weeks, and had data on pregnancy conception method.Intervention(s): None.Main Outcome Measure(s): The primary outcome was the composite neonatal adverse outcome (CNAO). The secondary outcome was the composite maternal adverse outcome (CMAO).Result(s): Of the 19.7 million deliveries during the study period, 54.0% (N = 10,676,184) met the inclusion criteria, with 99.0% (N = 10,573,741) being conceived spontaneously, 0.4% (N = 47,227) by IFM/IUI, and 0.5% (N = 55,216) by ART. The overall rate of CNAO was 6.68 per 1,000 live births. Compared with SC, the risk of CNAO was significantly higher among IFM/IUI (adjusted relative risk [aRR], 1.29; 95% CI, 1.18-1.41) and ART (aRR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.18-1.39). The overall rate of CMAO was 2.50 per 1,000 live births. Compared with SC, the risk of CMAO was significantly increased among IFM/IUI (aRR, 1.72; 95% CI, 1.50-1.97) and ART (aRR, 2.40; 95% CI, 2.17-2.65).Conclusion(s): Among low-risk term singleton pregnancies, IFM/IUI and ART have modestly higher rates of adverse outcomes to maternal-neonatal dyad than SC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Pioneer to apply network analysis method to input-output framework and depict the structural evolution of real estate industry in China from 2002 to 2017. • A comprehensive framework is proposed that contains multiple dimensions for characteristic evaluation. • Some methodological deficiencies prevailed in extant literatures like improper definition for mutual relationships based on undirected graph setting are overcome. • Real estate-finance nexus has been tightly built in China. • Transition of Chinese real estate developing enterprises is in process. This paper proposes an innovative framework that identifies the structural characteristics and the evolution process of real estate industry in China from 2002 to 2017 through a series of modified network analysis methods. Our results suggest that the growth momentum of real estate industry can be extended to a wide range of industries especially the financial industry while the systematic risk of the industry is becoming evident. Therefore, macro-prudential policies tailored to local conditions should continue to be the first line of defense. In addition, guiding policies towards professional service for developers are supposed to be emphasized since Chinese real estate industry is within the transition from construction-oriented towards service-oriented. Moreover, to satisfy the demand of citizens for improved housing and promote the upgrading of housing consumption is also critical because the role as supplier of housing in macroeconomy is becoming increasingly important according to our calculation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The financial loss assessment of industrial users due to voltage sag and short interruptions is important for distribution network performance evaluation and power quality enhancement scheme design. Existing assessment models are highly dependent on complete industrial process information, which is difficult to obtain. To solve this problem, a new sensitive industrial process model needs limited industrial processes information is proposed. In the proposed model, the sensitive equipment is modeled by voltage tolerance curves (VTC), and the truth table is used to characterize the logical relationship. As the industrial process information is limited, the boundary value of VTC and partial logical function values of the truth table are uncertain. To determine the model's uncertain parameters objectively, an optimization model with the goal of minimizing the deviation of the assessment loss is constructed, and the details of the algorithm are also given out. An example based on some investigation data is given to verify the effectiveness of the model and show how to use it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four new cationic iridium (III) complexes: [(cf3piq)2Ir(pzpy)]+PF6- (Ir1), [(cf3piq)2Ir(pzpyz)]+PF6-(Ir2), [(cf3piq)2Ir(impy)]+PF6- (Ir3), and [(cf3piq)2Ir(impyz)]+PF6- (Ir4) (where cf3piq=1-(4-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)isoquinoline, pzpy=2-(1H-pyrazol-3-yl) pyridine, pzpyz=2-(1H-pyrazol-3-yl)pyrazine, impy=2-(1H-imidazol-2-yl)pyridine, and impyz=2-(1H-imidazol-2-yl)pyrazine) have been synthesized and fully characterized. The single crystal structure of Ir3 has been determined by X-ray diffraction, and confirmed to have two hydrogen bonds (C14-H14···N2 and C57-H57···N9) and one intermolecular p-p stacking interaction. The UV-vis absorption, photoluminescence, and electrochemistry properties of all complexes have been studied. These complexes emit orange-red photoluminescence with quantum yields of 28-46% and excited state lifetimes of 0.48-0.65 µs in CH2Cl2 solution at room temperature. Based on the DFT calculations, we concluded that their emission originated predominantly from a hybrid 3MLCT/3ILCT excited state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]